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Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

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At least 19 records

All sources NASA NTRS DOE OSTI

DOE OSTI2022

Characterization and application of a high-resolution microfluidic device in atmospheric ice nucleation research and integrated science teaching

Ambient ice-nucleating particles (INPs) represent an important subset of aerosol particles that facilitate heterogeneous formation of ice crystals in the atmosphere, which can impact Earth system and energy. In this work, we developed an affordable high-resolution platform to replicate atmospheric immersion freezing through the unique capabilities of microfluidics to measure INP concentration of known ice nucleation active materials, as well as high-latitude soil samples. The new instrument produced comparable and extended freezing efficiency data for a multitude of samples over the temperature range of -5 to -35 °C as compared to an existing freezing assay within known uncertainties. Moreover, the new assay was integrated into science teaching at a primarily undergraduate and Hispanic-serving institute, contributing to fostering a deeper understanding of ice nucleation processes among college students, instilling their enthusiasm for science, and addressing the critical need for a well-informed citizenry. Student research assistants were involved in both research and pedagogical development processes. Three students from our team visited the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to help characterize physicochemical properties of our test samples and to test modeling of atmospheric ice nucleation using a box model as well as a global climate model (E3SM) for the regional-scale conditions over the North Slope of Alaska (NSA) and Southern Great Plains (SGP). We also assessed student learning experience via hands-on training, research processes, and development of educational materials. On pre- and post-participation surveys and in exit interviews, students reported personal growth as advancements in breadth of experience, research-related skill sets, and regarding their educational and career goals. They also affirmed that the methods enacted incorporated the NASA Minority University Research and Education Program (MUREP) STEM Engagement Best Practices.

58 GEOSCIENCES↗

DOE OSTI2022

How to Read the Snowmass White Papers on Power Dynamics in Physics, Informal Socialization in Physics Training, and Policing and Gatekeeping in STEM

The Community Engagement Frontier presents this set of three white papers, as part of Snowmass 2021. These papers address critical issues -- Power Dynamics in Physics, Informal Socialization in Physics Training, and Policing and Gatekeeping in STEM -- that make significant impacts on the experiences of the people who work in and learn particle physics. In this introductory document, we present crosscutting concepts that appear in each paper, and some advice on how to manage readers' responses to the contents. We expect that you will learn something new here. We hope that whatever you encounter, you will be energized to increase justice in this discipline we all love.

Hodari, Apriel K.↗

DOE OSTI2025

AstroPix: A pixelated HVCMOS sensor for space-based gamma-ray measurement

A next-generation medium-energy gamma-ray telescope targeting the MeV range would address open questions in astrophysics regarding how extreme conditions accelerate cosmic-ray particles, produce relativistic jet outflows, and more. One concept, AMEGO-X, relies upon the mission-enabling CMOS Monolithic Active Pixel Sensor silicon chip AstroPix. AstroPix is designed for space-based use, featuring low noise, low power consumption, and high scalability. Desired performance of the device include an energy resolution of 5 keV (or 10% FWHM) at 122 keV and a dynamic range per-pixel of 25–700 keV, enabled by the addition of a high-voltage bias to each pixel which supports a depletion depth of 500 μ m. This work reports on the status of the AstroPix development process with emphasis on the current version under test, version three (v3), and highlights of version two (v2). Version 3 achieves energy resolution of 10.4 ± 3.2% at 59.5 keV and 94 ± 6 μ m depletion in a low-resistivity test silicon substrate.

Astrophysics instrumentation↗

DOE OSTI2024

Experiments and Project-Based Enhancements for STEM Learning

Motivating K-12 students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is an effort that requires consistent engagement. Throughout the K-12 student timeline, STEM educators need to continuously pivot their teaching and update their educational materials to motivate the next generation of students. Once students begin their undergraduate education, university professors need to encourage them to consider pursuing graduate studies to ensure that a qualified future workforce can be developed for research and teaching. In this paper, we present our work on developing STEM materials for K-12 student engagement. Our K-12 materials target the grid integration of hydrogen assets that are suitable to engage students in the classroom. Our undergraduate materials target hands-on projects and collaboration with industry to connect classroom learning with real-world applications and needs in renewable energy. Our work leverages available open-source models and tools to create projects for undergraduate students and motivate their interest in pursuing research topics in graduate-level education.

ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY↗

DOE OSTI2025

A protective and broadly binding antibody class engages the influenza virus hemagglutinin head at its stem interface

ABSTRACT Influenza infection and vaccination impart strain-specific immunity that protects against neither seasonal antigenic variants nor the next pandemic. However, antibodies directed to conserved sites can confer broad protection. Here, we identify and characterize a class of human antibodies that engage a previously undescribed, conserved epitope on the influenza hemagglutinin (HA) protein. Prototype antibody S8V1-157 binds at the normally occluded interface between the HA head and stem. Antibodies to this HA head–stem interface epitope are non-neutralizingin vitrobut protect against lethal influenza infection in mice. These antibodies bind to most influenza A subtypes and seasonal human variants, and are present at low frequencies in the memory B cell populations of multiple human donors. Vaccines designed to elicit these antibodies might contribute to “universal” influenza immunity. IMPORTANCE Antibodies to the influenza virus hemagglutinin (HA) protein confer the strongest protection against infection. Human antibodies elicited by infection and/or vaccination fail to protect against antigenically novel animal, pandemic, or human seasonal viruses. Improved vaccines are needed. We identify a novel class of antibodies that bind most divergent HA subtypes and all seasonal human HA antigenic variants tested. These antibodies confer protection from lethal influenza challenge in animal models. The corresponding epitope on the HA head is occluded by its interaction with the stem and is inaccessible in the well-resolved prefusion state. The immunogenicity of this head–stem interface indicates that poorly understood conformations of HA presenting widely conserved surfaces are explored in biochemical, cell-based, andin vivoassays. Head–stem interface antibodies warrant further investigation as an avenue to improve influenza vaccines and therapeutics.

Microbiology↗

DOE OSTI2022

Engaging a Diverse Workforce in the Building Sciences Through the JUMP Into STEM Program: Impact Study; Preprint

Ensuring inclusivity in building science professions requires engaging people from underrepresented demographics; unfortunately, many races, ethnicities, and genders continue to be underrepresented. The JUMP into STEM program works to rectify this, encouraging creative ideation and highlighting the unique perspectives of a diverse array of students. The top students are awarded internships that provide opportunities to work in building science research with close supervision from mentors in the field. In the research presented here, we investigate the impact of participation in JUMP into STEM on students' careers, including the impact on students from diverse backgrounds. Furthermore, we research students' awareness of career opportunities in building science, students' perception of their ability to meaningfully contribute to this field, and the career building opportunities that JUMP into STEM provides for students. Through participant interviews and data analysis, we measure program diversity, inclusion, and effectiveness at achieving goals. We find that among the hundreds of students who have participated in this program, more than 25 different majors and/or educational degree programs are represented and more than 45% of students attend minority serving institutions or historically black colleges and universities. The JUMP into STEM experience had a significant effect on career choices or career development for more than 80% of participants. Our results also indicate that the JUMP into STEM program is effective at promoting diversity in the building sciences and is successfully contributing to the larger effort within the building science industry to promote and ensure equity in technological progress and innovation.

building energy science↗

DOE OSTI2025

Attractive Noncovalent Interactions versus Steric Confinement in Asymmetric Supramolecular Catalysis

The remarkable catalytic performance of enzymes stems from their ability to engage in precise noncovalent interactions (NCIs) within a sterically confined space. Supramolecular catalysis seeks to emulate and understand these strategies through the rational design of simple and controlled catalyst microenvironments. While both steric confinement and attractive interactions have been invoked as key to host activity, their relative contribution to rate enhancement and selectivity, as well as potential trade-offs, remains an outstanding question. Here, we address this question by systematically comparing two metal–organic supramolecular catalysts, which differ in the strength of their attractive noncovalent interactions and in their cavity volume. Our findings reveal that the catalyst with the larger cavity, and with stronger available NCIs, exhibits both significant rate acceleration (100-fold) and enhanced enantioselectivity (84% vs 14% ee) in a model ketone reduction compared to its smaller analogue. Mechanistic analysis, binding competition experiments, and computational modeling indicate that these differences predominantly stem from stabilizing noncovalent interactions in the larger catalyst, a result that challenges existing steric-based models of supramolecular stereoinduction. Understanding the governing factors of asymmetric induction and rate acceleration in supramolecular hosts will undoubtedly inform future catalyst design.

Catalysts↗

DOE OSTI2023

Template and target-site recognition by human LINE-1 in retrotransposition

The long interspersed element-1 (LINE-1, hereafter L1) retrotransposon has generated nearly one-third of the human genome and serves as an active source of genetic diversity and human disease. L1 spreads through a mechanism termed target-primed reverse transcription, in which the encoded enzyme (ORF2p) nicks the target DNA to prime reverse transcription of its own or non-self RNAs. Here we purified full-length L1 ORF2p and biochemically reconstituted robust target-primed reverse transcription with template RNA and target-site DNA. We report cryo-electron microscopy structures of the complete human L1 ORF2p bound to structured template RNAs and initiating cDNA synthesis. The template polyadenosine tract is recognized in a sequence-specific manner by five distinct domains. Among them, an RNA-binding domain bends the template backbone to allow engagement of an RNA hairpin stem with the L1 ORF2p C-terminal segment. Moreover, structure and biochemical reconstitutions demonstrate an unexpected target-site requirement: L1 ORF2p relies on upstream single-stranded DNA to position the adjacent duplex in the endonuclease active site for nicking of the longer DNA strand, with a single nick generating a staggered DNA break. Our research provides insights into the mechanism of ongoing transposition in the human genome and informs the engineering of retrotransposon proteins for gene therapy.

59 BASIC BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES↗

DOE OSTI2026

California Bridge to the EIC: Building a Diverse Workforce for Nuclear Physics Research at the Electron Ion Collider

The California Bridge to the Electron Ion Collider traineeship program established an integrated workforce development effort connecting University of California campuses, California State University Minority Serving Institutions, and DOE national laboratories. The program expanded participation in nuclear physics research among students from underrepresented and socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds while strengthening collaborative activities aligned with the future Electron Ion Collider. During the award period, trainees conducted experimental, theoretical, and computational research, participated in consortium meetings and national laboratory collaborations, and received structured mentoring and professional development. The program achieved strong outcomes in graduate school placement, STEM career transitions, and sustained engagement with DOE Nuclear Physics research.

99 GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUS↗

DOE OSTI2021

Bimetallic uranyl/cobalt( ii ) isothiocyanates: structure, property and spectroscopic analysis of homo- and heterometallic phases

An unexpected blue shift in the characteristic uranyl ν1 stretching frequency is observed upon engagement of the uranyl oxo with isothiocyanate group stemming from coupling between UO and U-NCS modes.

Byrne, Nicole M.↗

DOE OSTI2026

Integrated Hydrogen Energy System Testing/Validation: Cooperative Research and Development Final Report, CRADA Number CRD-21-18272

Through the ARIES platform, this proposed project aims to bridge a gap and utilize the power hardware-in-the-loop (PHIL) and controller hardware-in-the-loop (CHIL) experiments and create open-source interconnection and interoperability information that can aid in faster and cheaper installation and operation of grid forming fuel cell inverters.

08 HYDROGEN↗

DOE OSTI2024

Assessment of ROI for Workforce Development Efforts National & Homeland Security

The IDEAL Professional Engagement project at Idaho National Laboratory (INL) aims to enhance the laboratory's workforce diversity and inclusivity efforts, focusing on the U.S. National and Homeland Security mission areas. This project involves researching and evaluating opportunities for INL to engage in various professional events, particularly cyber conferences, to support recruitment and professional development. The project involved several key tasks: compiling comprehensive information on national laboratories and their mission statements, developing a deep understanding of INL’s role and efforts in national and homeland security, and identifying and engaging key stakeholders. Interviews were conducted with a set of targeted questions, and the findings were analyzed to identify common themes, insights, and actionable recommendations. Additionally, relevant upcoming cyber conferences were identified, various sponsorship levels and their associated benefits were evaluated, and the recruitment potential of these conferences was assessed. A detailed cost analysis was performed, including registration fees and travel expenses, and a cost-benefit analysis was conducted to evaluate the financial viability and potential return on investment (ROI) of conference participation and sponsorship. Based on the research and analysis, actionable recommendations for conference participation and sponsorship were formulated, ensuring alignment with INL’s mission and diversity goals. Preliminary results include a comprehensive list of relevant cyber conferences, a detailed cost analysis, and a set of actionable recommendations for future conference participation and sponsorship. The analysis highlights the financial requirements and geographical distribution of these conferences, providing valuable insights for INL's engagement strategies. This project underscores the importance of strategic engagement in professional events to attract and develop a diverse and skilled workforce, ultimately supporting INL’s mission areas in U.S. National and Homeland Security.

99 GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUS↗

DOE OSTI2024

FacultyHack Events: Faculty-Focused Hackathons for High-Performance Computing Curriculum Development

Broadening participation initiatives are important for engaging underrepresented groups in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Such initiatives help foster supportive and inclusive work environments that promote creativity and productivity. While there are initiatives that aim to engage students and faculty, opportunities remain to improve faculty support. Hackathons have proved to be a useful approach for student engagement. There are, however, limited insights into whether and how such events would also work for faculty aiming to develop curricula. This paper discusses the design of a faculty-focused hackathon event, FacultyHack, for curriculum development. We outline the logistics and structure for two past FacultyHack events, detail changes between events, and describe potential improvements and lessons learned.

Holmen, John [ORNL] (ORCID:0000000259342641)↗

DOE OSTI2023

Leveraging national laboratories to increase Black representation in STEM: recommendations within the Department of Energy

Increasing diversity in STEM disciplines has been a goal at scientific institutions for many decades. Black representation in STEM, however, has remained critically low at all levels (high school, undergraduate, graduate, and professional) for over 40 years, highlighting the need for innovative strategies that promote and retain Black students and professionals in STEM. We refocus efforts on increasing Black representation in STEM by promoting early exposure and continued engagement while leveraging national laboratories—an underutilized resource with immense potential to centralize diversity and inclusion efforts nationally.

99 GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUS↗

DOE OSTI2021

Expert Text Analysis in the Inclusion of History and Philosophy of Science in Higher Education

The history and philosophy of science (HPS) plays a special role in education. An elective HPS course onthe philosophy of scientific experimentation for young scientists and graduate students of natural scienceis presented. The course bears a pragmatic character, and its main aims include the development of criticalthinking (CT), familiarization with philosophical problems in the relevant areas of knowledge, and thecultivation of a taste for reflective, critical analysis, both individual and group-based, which contributes todeeper understanding of the features of scientific practice in the context of modern complex groupcooperation. Students are offered a classical HPS program that included debates on the relationship betweenempiricism and rationalism, the role of Kant’s transcendental philosophy, modern topics associated withthe practical success of rationalism in the emergence of modern natural science, and the theory-ladennessof experimentation. Particular attention during the course is paid to the problems of megascience, theinclusion of which is justified by the specifics of the students’ engagement with science, technology,engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Emphasis is placed on the structure and typology of the collectivesubject in the modern educational process as well as in experimental practice. Lessons on the methodologyof expert text analysis (META), which are aimed at the development of critical thinking skills and thecreation of an interdisciplinary discussion space, are included in the course and relied on the example ofthe history and philosophy of high energy physics to motivate professional reflection. META classesincluded in the course prepare graduate students for teamwork in big science, proto-megascience, andmegascience. The course offers practical recommendations that could be applied to students’ own researchand could be useful for practitioners.

99 GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUS↗

DOE OSTI2022

Inspiring Tomorrow's Water Power Workforce to Lead the Clean Energy Revolution

Renewable water power, including hydropower and marine energy, will play a key role in building a reliable and flexible 100% clean energy future. That future needs a larger, modern workforce - one that's more diverse, equitable, and inclusive - to power and improve these technologies. And researchers at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) are committed to fostering tomorrow's water power workforce through science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and workforce development programs. Through events, online resources, and more, the lab aims to engage and inspire students to dive into careers in water power.

HYDRO ENERGY↗

DOE OSTI2024

Inspiring Tomorrow's Water Power Workforce to Lead the Clean Energy Revolution

app↗

DOE OSTI2026

Directed evolution of a stem-helix–targeting antibody enables MERS-CoV cross-neutralization through enhanced binding affinity

Broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) targeting conserved regions of the betacoronavirus spike are important for pan-betacoronavirus protection and pandemic preparedness. Here, we report the isolation of a human monoclonal antibody, CC65.1, from a SARS-CoV-2 convalescent donor that targets the conserved S2 stem helix region. CC65.1 neutralizes various sarbecoviruses, including SARS-CoV-2, and binds to the MERS-CoV spike but lacks MERS-CoV-neutralizing activity due to insufficient binding affinity. We utilized directed evolution to enhance the binding affinity of CC65.1 for the MERS-CoV S2 stem helix, yielding engineered antibody variants with newly acquired MERS-CoV-neutralizing activity. High-resolution structural analysis reveals key paratope mutations that enhance binding and stabilize epitope engagement. Our findings demonstrate the potential of in vitro affinity maturation to expand the neutralization breadth of stem-helix-targeting antibodies across divergent betacoronaviruses. This work supports the development of engineered bnAbs for broadly protective betacoronavirus countermeasures and provides a strategy for achieving cross-lineage neutralization.

Zhou, Panpan↗