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At least 37 records · Page 2

CANA v1.0.0: efficient quantification of canalization in automata networks

The biomolecular networks underpinning cell function exhibit canalization, or the buffering of fluctuations required to function in a noisy environment. We present a new major release of $\tt{CANA}$, v1.0.0, an open-source Python package for understanding canalization in automata network models, discrete dynamical systems in which activation of biomolecular entities (e.g. transcription of genes) is modeled as the activity of coupled automata. One understudied putative mechanism for canalization is the functional equivalence of biomolecular regulators (e.g. among the transcription factors for a gene). We study this mechanism using the theory of symmetry in discrete functions. We present a new exact method, $\tt{schematodes}$, for finding maximal symmetry groups among the inputs to discrete functions, and integrate it into $\tt{CANA}$. The $\tt{schematodes}$ method substantially outperforms the inexact method of previous $\tt{CANA}$ versions both in speed and accuracy. We apply $\tt{CANA}$ v1.0.0 to study symmetry in 74 experimentally supported automata network models from the Cell Collective (CC) repository. The symmetry distribution is significantly different in the CC than in random automata with the same in-degree (connectivity) and bias (average output) (Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, P ≪ .001). Its spread is much wider than in a null model (IQR 0.31 versus IQR 0.20 with equal medians), demonstrating that the CC is enriched in functions with extreme symmetry or asymmetry.

Boolean networks

A Digital Twin of Scalable Quantum Clouds

Quantum computing has emerged as a transformative technology capable of solving complex problems beyond the limit of classical systems. The rapid development of quantum processors has led to the proliferation of cloud-based quantum computing services offered by platforms such as IBM, Google, and Amazon. These platforms introduce unique challenges in resource allocation, job scheduling, and multi-device orchestration as quantum workloads become increasingly complex. In this work, we present a digital twin of quantum cloud infrastructures: a framework designed to model and simulate the behavior of real quantum cloud systems. Developed in Python using the SimPy discrete-event simulation library, the framework replicates key aspects of quantum cloud environments, including detailed quantum device modeling, job lifecycle management, and job fidelity. It incorporates noise-aware fidelity estimation, making it the first of its kind to simulate superconducting gate-based quantum cloud systems at an administrative level with job fidelity. We present use cases as proof of concept, demonstrating that our quantum cloud simulation framework can act as a digital twin of a quantum cloud and support the modeling and implementation of practical systems.

Luo, Waylon [Kent State University]

The Impact of Void-finding Algorithms on Galaxy Classification

We explore how the definition of a void influences the conclusions drawn about the impact of the void environment on galactic properties using two void-finding algorithms in the Void Analysis Software Toolkit: Voronoi Voids (V 2 ), a Python implementation of ZOnes Bordering On Voidness (ZOBOV); and VoidFinder, an algorithm that grows and merges spherical void regions. Using the Sloan Digital Sky Survey Data Release 7, we find that galaxies found in VoidFinder voids tend to be bluer and fainter and to have higher (specific) star formation rates than galaxies in denser regions. Conversely, galaxies found in V 2 voids show less significant differences when compared to galaxies in denser regions, less consistent with the large-scale environmental effects on galaxy properties expected from both simulations and previous observations. These results align with previous simulation results that show V 2 -identified voids “leak” into the dense walls between voids because their boundaries extend up to the density maxima in the walls. As a result, when using ZOBOV-based void-finders, galaxies likely to be part of wall regions are instead classified as void galaxies, a misclassification that can be critical to our understanding of galaxy evolution.

cosmic web

Unsupervised Clustering and Supervised Regression Learning to Select High Temperature Oxidation-Resistant Materials

High temperature oxidation and corrosion degradation mechanisms dictate the lifetime of materials critical to energy production. The combination of modeling and experimental approaches such as machine learning (ML) and data analytics, with sufficient experimental data, can accelerate the development of new materials while limiting its cost. In the present work, ML will be applied to two high temperature oxidation data libraries (Oak Ridge National Laboratory and National Air and Space Administration) that comprised of about 5000 mass change sample datasheets for a variety of materials and temperatures in dry air and air + 10 % H2O. A python code was developed to prepare the data for machine learning by collecting and formatting oxidation rate constants, alloy compositions and environment of exposure into a single data frame. Scikit-learn library and Statistics and Machine Learning Toolbox within MathWorks were then used to perform unsupervised clustering and supervised regression learning. The impact of dataset distribution on the performance of the developed ML models was evaluated. Potential strategies to improve the predictions and enhance extrapolative capability of the previously trained model were investigated.

Romedenne, Marie [ORNL] (ORCID:0000000317936561)

wastewater_virus

This repo contains software used to clean and assemble high-throughput sequencing data containing viruses. The input is raw illumina sequencing reads and the output is a database of high-quality viral genomes. The specific application is to wastewater viral concentrates but it is not restricted to that sample type. The software is composed of Nextflow workflows and a set of custom Python and bash scripts that call publicly available bioinformatics tools to accomplish obvious tasks in data analysis in a high performance computing environment. For detailed information, please see the repo's README file.

Kantor, Rose [Lawrence Livermore National Laborato

AutoSAC-Automated Sample Activation Calculation on VULCAN

AutoSAC is an automated python program to conduct sample activation calculation immediately after neutron scattering experiment on VULCAN. AutoSAC takes account of sample dimensions, compositions, forms, sample environments, neutron beam configurations, neutron scattering history, and proton charged resolved beam power etc., and uses a simplified method to rapidly estimate the radioactivity at end of beam or after. It generates a draft report per sample and repository of radioactivity per measurement and provides feedback of current radioactivity and decay time back to a neutron proposal Slack channel to inform users immediately on sample handling. It also utilizes either the sample note field in EPICS or sample composition or thickness correction and takes slack prompt or command to conduct post-beam SAC by demand. The program can be shared to be used in other beamlines at spallation neutron source with modified instrument configurations including instrument specific characteristic beam fluxes.

An, Ke [Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), Oak

Boride-based Ceramic Super-high Temperature Thermocouples in Harsh Environments (Final Scientific/Technical Report)

An electromotive force (emf) can be generated along a temperature gradient between the cold end and hot end of a thermoelectric material, termed the Seebeck effect. Based on the Seebeck effect, metallic alloys have been extensively employed to detect temperatures for centuries, named thermocouples. However, commercially available thermocouple alloys suffer from limitations, such as oxidation, chemical degradation, and poor long-term stability under high-temperature harsh environments. This DOE-funded project aimed to develop high-temperature, chemically tolerant thermocouples suitable for operation in extreme environments relevant to semiconducting thermoelectric materials. The research focused on boride-based semiconducting thermoelectric compounds as candidates for next-generation thermocouples with enhanced oxidation resistance, chemical stability, and thermal robustness under conditions representative of charcoal-fired electricity facilities. During the funded years, boride materials were synthesized using an arc-plasma technique under ambient air and argon atmospheres, enabling scalable and cost-effective production compared with conventional boride fabrication methods. The synthesized borides were processed into nanostructured powders, followed by consolidation into dense bulk materials using a spark plasma sintering (SPS) bottom-up approach. Comprehensive characterization was performed, including microstructural analysis, electrical transport measurements, and optical and thermal property evaluation. Both p-type and n-type boride electric legs were fabricated and integrated into boride-based thermocouples. The thermal and irradiation stabilities of the boride nanomaterials and bulk thermoelectric materials were systematically evaluated to assess suitability for long-term operation in harsh environments. Additionally, 12 students were broadly hands-on trained spanning the full research workflow, including word processing and technical editing (e.g., LATEX for manuscript and poster preparation), data collection and analysis (using Python and related libraries and hardware interfaces), sample preparation (including arc-plasma synthesis and spark plasma sintering), and advanced characterization techniques (such as X-ray diffraction, UV–vis spectroscopy, electron microscopy, differential thermal analysis (DTA), and Seebeck coefficient measurements, etc). Overall, this project demonstrated the feasibility of boride-based thermoelectric materials as durable high-temperature thermocouples, providing a promising pathway toward robust temperature sensing technologies aligned with DOE energy infrastructure and extreme-environment monitoring needs.

20 FOSSIL-FUELED POWER PLANTS

OpenSAMPL: An Open Source Library for Timing and Synchronization Measurements and Analytics

Today's power grid operators are implementing timing and synchronization solutions that provide resilience to Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) vulnerabilities. These vendor-specific solutions often come with additional software applications that are designed to monitor that vendor's synchronization performance data. However, resilient timing architectures often resulting in multi-vendor solutions, including approaches that blend terrestrial clocks with space-based subscription services. In such an environment, collecting, analyzing, and visualizing data from a variety of sources within a single platform was heretofore not possible. To address this need, the US Department of Energy's Center for Alternative Synchronization and Timing (CAST) developed OpenSAMPL, the Open Synchronized Analytics and Monitoring Platform, an open-source Python framework for processing, loading, and observing clock measurement data from distributed devices. OpenSAMPL enables the ingestion of diverse clock-probe sources into a scalable time-series database and applies robust analytics. OpenSAMPL currently supports two vendor data pipelines, and will be extended to more in the near future, enabling seamless monitoring of a variety of timing and synchronization devices in a common environment.

Grant, Josh [ORNL] (ORCID:0000000163475060)

Enhancing EnergyPlus capabilities to model dynamic building envelopes using python plugin

Nearly half of the energy consumption in the United States is related to buildings, resulting in an urgent need to develop innovative technologies to improve building energy efficiency. Dynamic building envelopes, comprising switchable insulation and thermal energy storage materials, have been proposed recently as a promising solution to reduce buildings' heating and cooling loads by thermally coupling the indoor environment with the ambient environment when beneficial while decoupling them when outdoor conditions are not favorable. Although various related technologies are still underway, the whole-building energy modeling tools, like EnergyPlus, do not have the capability to simulate the transient and dynamic nature of dynamic envelope materials and components to accurately predict their impact on building energy use. The objective of this study is to formulate a method in EnergyPlus simulation engine to model multilayer envelopes, comprising dynamic building materials with variable thermophysical properties, and discuss the changes made to the program using a Python plugin. Furthermore, the thermal performance of the dynamic envelopes using the proposed method is compared and verified with the results from a well-established commercial code, COMSOL Multiphysics. A parametric assessment is also conducted to evaluate the energy efficiency benefits of dynamic envelopes in a single-family residential building, demonstrating total annual energy savings up to 11.6 %, when a dynamic envelope operates alone, and up to 18.2 % when it is combined with a thin layer of phase change material as a thermal storage medium. Finally, a United States wide energy efficiency assessment is presented to showcase the geographical spread of the energy savings. The method designed and implemented in this study provides the researchers with the ability to implement their dynamic insulation methods in EnergyPlus and evaluate the whole building energy impact.

25 ENERGY STORAGE

pyTCR: A tropical cyclone rainfall model for python

pyTCR is a climatology software package developed in the Python programming language. It integrates the capabilities of several legacy physical models and increases computational efficiency to allow rapid estimation of tropical cyclone (TC) rainfall consistent with the large-scale environment. Specifically, pyTCR implements a horizontally distributed and vertically integrated model [Zhu et al., 2013] for simulating rainfall driven by TCs. Along storm tracks, rainfall is estimated by computing the cross-boundary-layer, upward water vapor transport caused by different mechanisms including frictional convergence, vortex stretching, large-scale baroclinic effect (i.e., wind shear), topographic forcing, and radiative cooling [Lu et al., 2018]. The package provides essential functionalities for modeling and interpreting spatio-temporal TC rainfall data. pyTCR requires a limited number of model input parameters, making it a convenient and useful tool for analyzing rainfall mechanisms driven by TCs. To sample rare (most intense) rainfall events that are often of great societal interest, pyTCR adapts and leverages outputs from a statistical-dynamical TC downscaling model [Lin et al., 2023] capable of rapidly generating a large number of synthetic TCs given a certain climate. As a result, pyTCR significantly reduces computational effort and improves the efficiency in capturing extreme TC rainfall events at the tail of the distributions from limited datasets. Furthermore, the TC downscaling model is forced entirely by large-scale environmental conditions from reanalysis data or coupled General Circulation Models (GCMs), simplifying the projection of TC-induced rainfall and wind speed under future climate using pyTCR. Finally, pyTCR can be coupled with hydrological and wind models to assess risks associated with independent and compound events (e.g., storm surges and freshwater flooding).

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES

Multi-Split Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) System Building Energy Simulations Using Performance Maps

Multi-split variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems are highly energy-efficient HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) technologies that connect a single outdoor unit to multiple independent indoor terminal units using a common refrigerant circuit and a variable-speed compressor. Building energy simulations that incorporate VRF systems help model their unique operational characteristics and predict energy consumption in specific building designs. Traditionally, EnergyPlus models these systems by employing multiple sets of performance curves to characterize both individual terminal units and the outdoor unit. However, producing these curves is labor intensive and error prone, and they often do not capture all the key input and output variables. This paper introduces a novel approach that uses multi-dimensional performance maps to model VRF systems in building environments for space cooling. In this approach, performance maps are developed at the component level—separately for the outdoor unit and for each indoor terminal. The new modeling method is validated within EnergyPlus via a Python plug-in that contains a simple solver loop to coordinate the component-level, indoor, and outdoor unit maps. Furthermore, because performance maps can span more variables than traditional performance curves, they offer the opportunity to implement advanced controls, such as enhanced dehumidification and compressor modulation. A VRF air conditioner’s hardware system was modeled using the DOE/ORNL Heat Pump Design Model, which was automated to produce extensive performance maps for both the indoor and outdoor units.

Shen, Bo [ORNL] (ORCID:0000000336600393)

GenomeDepot: data management system for microbial comparative genomics

Summary GenomeDepot is an open-source web-based platform for annotation, management, and comparative analysis of microbial genomic sequences and associated data including ortholog families, protein domains, operons, regulatory interactions, strain taxonomy, and sample metadata. GenomeDepot supports rapid creation of websites for user-defined genome collections that include bioinformatic tools for interactive genome browsing, Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) search, annotation search, comparative genomic neighborhood visualization, and sequence download. Gene function annotations are generated by a customizable annotation pipeline. The pipeline runs annotation tools in Conda environments and can be easily extended with additional user-specified tools. Availability and implementation GenomeDepot is open source and distributed under the GNU General Public License via GitHub (https://github.com/aekazakov/genome-depot). GenomeDepot is implemented in Python and was tested in Ubuntu Linux. Full installation instructions and documentation are available at https://aekazakov.github.io/genome-depot/. GenomeDepot demo server is freely accessible at https://iseq.lbl.gov/demogd/.

Kazakov, Alexey [Lawrence Berkeley National Labora

Use of Digital Real-Time Simulation and Optimization to Identify Maximum Real Power Injection on Banshee Distribution Network

This study investigates the hosting capacity of the Banshee Distribution Network by optimizing the real power injection at carefully selected Distributed Energy Resource (DER) locations. The analysis is conducted within the framework of power system operational constraints, including bus voltage ranges, thermal line ratings, and transformer loading limits. A Python-based Genetic Algorithm (GA), implemented using the PyGAD library, is employed to iteratively identify the optimal power injection configuration that maximizes network utilization while preserving system reliability. The methodology integrates a real-time simulation environment using the Real-Time Digital Simulator (RTDS), allowing high-fidelity evaluation of power flow and voltage behavior under each proposed injection scenario. By coupling the optimization algorithm with real-time simulation feedback, this approach ensures that both static and dynamic constraints are enforced during the evaluation process. The GA leverages evolutionary operators such as selection, crossover, and mutation to navigate the nonlinear search space efficiently. The results of the study delineate the feasible hosting capacity at three targeted buses, reflecting maximum real power levels that can be injected without causing voltage violations, transformer overloading, or line congestion. These findings provide a decision- support tool for distribution planners and utilities aiming to integrate higher penetrations of DERs in existing infrastructure. Additionally, the work lays the foundation for extending such optimization techniques to multi-objective formulations, including economic dispatch and reactive power coordination, in future studies.

24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION

A Modular Accelerator Robotics Framework for AD Robotics

Accelerator tunnels, such as the ones at Fermilab, remain highly radioactive after beam shutoff due to induced radiation from the beam. This residual radiation creates a hazardous environment for manual inspection and repair of beamline components. To minimize worker radiation dose and reduce beam downtime, the AD Robotics Initiative previously built a fleet of low-cost custom mobile robots. However, the custom Python sockets server-client architecture lacked standardization, causing development delays and complicating the integration of new sensors and actuators. Here, we developed a modular system using ROS2 and Docker to standardize the teleoperation and control interfaces. This system was validated by implementing a teleoperation controller with real-time, low-latency, and high-definition video feedback. The aim of this framework is for a new feature or even a robot to be integrated into the system simply by documenting the hardware configuration. Current integration of LiDAR, Odometry, and Depth Cameras provides the foundation for Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) tasks. Finally, future work involves integration into the accelerator control system and the attachment of a 6 degree-of-freedom robotic arm for telemanipulation.

Rayyan Khan, M. [Fermilab; Rensselaer Poly.; Unlis

Use of Digital Real-Time Simulation and Optimization to Identify Maximum Real Power Injection on the Banshee Distribution Network: Preprint

This study investigates the hosting capacity of the Banshee Distribution Network by optimizing the real power injection at carefully selected Distributed Energy Resource (DER) locations. The analysis is conducted within the framework of power system operational constraints, including bus voltage ranges, thermal line ratings, and transformer loading limits. A Python-based Genetic Algorithm (GA), implemented using the PyGAD library, is employed to iteratively identify the optimal power injection configuration that maximizes network utilization while preserving system reliability. The methodology integrates a real-time simulation environment using the Real-Time Digital Simulator (RTDS), allowing high-fidelity evaluation of power flow and voltage behavior under each proposed injection scenario. By coupling the optimization algorithm with real-time simulation feedback, this approach ensures that both static and dynamic constraints are enforced during the evaluation process. The GA leverages evolutionary operators such as selection, crossover, and mutation to navigate the nonlinear search space efficiently. The results of the study delineate the feasible hosting capacity at three targeted buses, reflecting maximum real power levels that can be injected without causing voltage violations, transformer overloading, or line congestion. These findings provide a decision- support tool for distribution planners and utilities aiming to integrate higher penetrations of DERs in existing infrastructure. Additionally, the work lays the foundation for extending such optimization techniques to multi-objective formulations, including economic dispatch and reactive power coordination, in future studies.

24 POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION

Modular Accelerator Robotics Framework Implementation For Accelerator Inspection

Accelerator tunnels, such as the ones at Fermilab, remain highly radioactive after beam shutoff due to induced radiation from the beam. This residual radiation creates a hazardous environment for manual inspection and repair of beamline components. To minimize worker radiation dose and reduce beam downtime, the AD Robotics Initiative previously built a fleet of low-cost custom mobile robots. However, the custom Python sockets server-client architecture lacked standardization, causing development delays and complicating the integration of new sensors and actuators. Here, we developed a modular system using ROS2 and Docker to standardize the teleoperation and control interfaces. This system was validated by implementing a teleoperation controller with real-time, low-latency, and high-definition video feedback. The aim of this framework is for a new feature or even a robot to be integrated into the system simply by documenting the hardware configuration. Current integration of LiDAR, Odometry, and Depth Cameras provides the foundation for Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) tasks. Finally, future work involves integration into the accelerator control system and the attachment of a 6 degree-of-freedom robotic arm for telemanipulation.

Rayyan Khana, M. [Unlisted, US, IL] (ORCID:0009000

Nondestructive Modular Leak Detection in 3D Printed 316L Stainless Steel Pipes via Laser Powder Bed Fusion

This research investigates the leak detection features of 316L Stainless Steel pipe structures manufactured via Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF). This work involves the design of a modular sensor system integrating nondestructive evaluation (NDE) methods, including thermal imaging and ultrasonic frequency detection to detect and characterize leaks in components. This aims to improve leak detection sensitivity within medium-pressure gas systems, during continuous operation without halting flow or introducing safety risks. The system could be adaptable for use on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), enabling remote leak detection in active environments. A custom pneumatic system incorporating temperature and pressure sensors was assembled to detect leaks in LPBF-printed 316L SS tee pipes. Experimental results and simulations confirm the system’s effectiveness in leak detection and material evaluation. This research program also integrated a Python-based image recognition platform based on a metallography and optical microscopy to assess the porosity and complement the leak detection data on the printed structures. This allows a detailed analysis of pore distribution and internal leak paths, which could compromise structural integrity, critical for quality control during manufacturing. Findings suggest that the investigated approach holds potential for enhancing leak detection technologies and adapt them for advanced manufactured parts.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE

NEML2: An efficient and modular multiphysics constitutive modeling library for hybrid computing environments

This paper presents NEML2, an open-source, high-performance library developed for constitutive material modeling, designed to support the flexible and modular development of models for complex material behavior. Building on the foundational structure of its predecessor, NEML, the NEML2 library introduces significant improvements, including enhanced vectorization, automatic differentiation, and seamless integration with PyTorch, facilitating the application of machine learning techniques in material simulations. NEML2 provides a C++ backend with Python bindings, enabling users to create custom material models that can be executed efficiently on both CPU and GPU platforms. The library also supports coupling with Multiphysics simulation frameworks like MOOSE, making it suitable for realistic simulations involving coupled physical processes. Rigorous quality assurance through unit and regression testing ensures the reliability of results, while the extensible, user-friendly design encourages collaboration and reproducibility across the scientific community. This paper provides an overview of NEML2’s architecture, core features, and applications, highlighting its impact on accelerating material qualification and advancing computational methods in materials science.

GPU