Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a device for and a method of interfacial electrofabrication of freestanding biopolymer membranes comprising at least one anode; at least one cathode; at least one anode electrolyte; and at least one cathode electrolyte, wherein at least a portion of the at least one anode electrolyte and the at least one cathode electrolyte form an interface, wherein at least one polyelectrolyte complex membrane (PECM) forms at the interface of the at least one anode electrolyte and the at least one cathode electrolyte, wherein the at least one anode electrolyte and the at least one cathode electrolyte are separated by the PECM, wherein the at least one anode is disposed in the at least one anode electrolyte, wherein the at least one cathode is disposed in the at least one cathode electrolyte, and wherein the at least one anode and the at least one cathode are distal from the interface of the at least one anode electrolyte and the at least one cathode electrolyte.

Abstract: Systems and methods for improving load energy forecasting in the presence of distributed energy resources in which a revised load forecast is calculated based on forecasted meteorological conditions data, forecasted wind and solar energy, forecasted load data, time data and time-series variables determined based on an analysis of the historical data. In exemplary embodiments, the revised load forecast is provided to energy management computer systems to enable appropriate levels of generation of conventional and renewable energy generation within the electric power grid.

Abstract: A geopolymer thermal energy storage (TES) concrete product comprising at least one binder; at least one alkali activator; at least one fine aggregate with high thermal conductivity and heat capacity; and at least one coarse aggregate with high thermal conductivity and heat capacity.

Abstract: Described is an “artificial virus” (AV) programmed with biomolecules that can enter human cells and carry out precise human genome modification. The AVs comprise: at least one viral vector, such as bacteriophage T4; at least one therapeutic molecule, such as DNA, RNA, protein and their complex; and a lipid coating. Also described is a method of human genome modification, using such an AV, and a method of program such an AV.

Abstract: Bivalent immunogenic compositions against anthrax and plague are disclosed herein. One bivalent immunogenic composition comprises a triple fusion protein containing three antigens, F1 and V from Yersinia pestis and PA antigen from Bacillus anthracis fused in-frame and retaining structural and functional integrity of all three antigens. Another bivalent immunogenic composition comprises bacteriophage nanoparticles arrayed with these three antigens on the capsid surface of the bacteriophage nanoparticles. These bivalent immunogenic compositions are able to elicit robust immune response in a subject administered said the bivalent immunogenic compositions and provide protection to the subject against sequential or simultaneous challenge with both anthrax and plague pathogens.

Abstract: Described is hybrid viral vector comprising: a first virus such as bacteriophage T4; one or more second virus such as adeno-associated virus (AAV) attached to the first virus through cross-bridges, such as avidin-biotin cross-bridges; one or more DNA molecules packaged in the first virus; one or more nucleic acid molecules packaged in the second virus; and one or more proteins displayed on the surface of the first virus. Also described are methods of making and using such a hybrid viral vector.

Abstract: An embodiment includes a Class C fly ash (CFA) cementitious composition with a controllable setting time comprising at least one Class C fly ash; at least one alkali hydroxide; at least one source of phosphate; and water. Alternate embodiments include a Class C fly ash (CFA) cementitious composition with a solid activator comprising at least one Class C fly ash; at least one alkali carbonate; at least one source of phosphate; and water.

Abstract: A computer system and method for improving the accuracy of predictions of the amount of renewable energy, such as solar energy and wind energy, available to an electric utility, and/or refine such predictions, by providing improved integration of meteorological forecasts. Coefficient values are calculated for a renewable energy generation model by performing a regression analysis with the forecasted level of renewable energy posted by the utility, forecasted weather conditions and measures of seasonality as explanatory variables. Accuracy is further enhanced through the inclusion of a large number of time series variables that reflect the systematic nature of the energy/weather system. The model also uses the original forecast posted by the system operator as well as variables to control for season.

Abstract: Bivalent immunogenic compositions against anthrax and plague are disclosed herein. One bivalent immunogenic composition comprises a triple fusion protein containing three antigens, F1 and V from Yersinia pestis and PA antigen from Bacillus anthracia fused in-frame and retaining structural and functional integrity of all three antigens. Another bivalent immunogenic composition comprises bacteriophage nanoparticles arrayed with these three antigens on the capsid surface of the bacteriophage nanoparticles. These bivalent immunogenic compositions are able to elicit robust immune response in a subject administered said the bivalent immunogenic compositions and provide protection to the subject against sequential or simultaneous challenge with both anthrax and plague pathogens.

Abstract: Complexing or chelating agents that offer strong, selective bonding with uranium as well as a broad pH range of effectiveness, specifically including the pH range around 8.2, together with the acrylic double bonds required for radiation-induced grafting on polymers to remove uranium from a solution such as seawater. The novel adsorbing species are phosphorus-containing molecules, in particular organic phosphates, phosphonates and phosphoric acids. Organic phosphorus compounds, for example, organic phosphates, phosphonates, and phosphoric acids, are attached to polymer fibers to form fibers, fiber fabrics or membranes that are effective, or show activity, in uranium adsorption.

Abstract: Provided herein are HIV vaccines that encompasses recombinant trimers that mimic native HIV-1 envelope trimers. Also provided are methods of administering to a subject in need thereof an HIV vaccine provided herein to elicit antibodies against a recombinant trimer in the subject. A recombinant trimer is formed by a recombinant protein comprising a recombinant HIV-1 gp140 fused to a tag through a linker at C-terminus of the recombinant HIV-1 gp140, wherein the linker is sufficiently long so that the tag is accessible for binding by a binding molecule bound on a solid matrix during purification of the recombinant trimer.

Abstract: Systems and methods improve the forecast of electricity consumption, and/or refining such predictions. Predictions may be refined by accounting for factors such as preliminary predictions, pricing and cost information associated with future supply of energy, the extent of anticipated changes in the predictions, the time of day and/or anticipated daylight for the period of time. Coefficient values are calculated for a forecast error model that takes into account factors related to electricity consumption using existing historical electrical grid data. Using the calculated values, the forecast error model may be applied to current electricity demand forecasts.

Abstract: An approach of producing recombinant trimers that mimic native HIV-1 envelope trimers is developed. A recombinant protein forming the recombinant trimers encompasses a recombinant HIV-1 gp140 fused to a tag through a linker at C-terminus of the recombinant HIV-1 gp140. The linker is sufficiently long so that the tag is accessible for binding by a binding molecule bound on a solid matrix. After expressed in a cell, the recombinant protein is secreted into the culture medium and assembles into recombinant trimers therein. The recombinant trimers may be directly purified from the culture medium. Cleaved and uncleaved trimers from different clade viruses are produced.

Abstract: An approach of producing recombinant trimers that mimic native HIV-1 envelope trimers is developed. A recombinant protein forming the recombinant trimers encompasses a recombinant HIV-1 gp140 fused to a tag through a linker at C-terminus of the recombinant HIV-1 gp140. The linker is sufficiently long so that the tag is accessible for binding by a binding molecule bound on a solid matrix. After expressed in a cell, the recombinant protein is secreted into the culture medium and assembles into recombinant trimers therein. The recombinant trimers may be directly purified from the culture medium. Cleaved and uncleaved trimers from different clade viruses are produced.

Abstract: Provided herein are HIV vaccines that encompasses recombinant trimers that mimic native HIV-1 envelope trimers. Also provided are methods of administering to a subject in need thereof an HIV vaccine provided herein to elicit antibodies against a recombinant trimer in the subject. A recombinant trimer is formed by a recombinant protein comprising a recombinant HIV-1 gp140 fused to a tag through a linker at C-terminus of the recombinant HIV-1 gp140, wherein the linker is sufficiently long so that the tag is accessible for binding by a binding molecule bound on a solid matrix during purification of the recombinant trimer.

Abstract: A composite binder comprises: one or more Class F fly ash materials, one or more gelation enhancers, and one or more hardening enhancers, wherein each of the one or more Class F fly ash materials comprises 15 wt. % or less calcium oxide, and wherein the composite binder is a Portland cement-free binder for concrete. Also provided are Geopolymer Composite Cellular Concretes (GCCCs) including the composite binder and methods of making these GCCCs.

Abstract: An approach of producing recombinant trimers that mimic native HIV-1 envelope trimers is developed. A recombinant protein forming the recombinant trimers encompasses a recombinant HIV-1 gp140 fused to a tag through a linker at C-terminus of the recombinant HIV-1 gp140. The linker is sufficiently long so that the tag is accessible for binding by a binding molecule bound on a solid matrix. After expressed in a cell, the recombinant protein is secreted into the culture medium and assembles into recombinant trimers therein. The recombinant trimers may be directly purified from the culture medium. Cleaved and uncleaved trimers from different clade viruses are produced.

Abstract: An approach of producing recombinant trimers that mimic native HIV-1 envelope trimers is developed. A recombinant protein forming the recombinant trimers encompasses a recombinant HIV-1 gp140 fused to a tag through a linker at C-terminus of the recombinant HIV-1 gp140. The linker is sufficiently long so that the tag is accessible for binding by a binding molecule bound on a solid matrix. After expressed in a cell, the recombinant protein is secreted into the culture medium and assembles into recombinant trimers therein. The recombinant trimers may be directly purified from the culture medium. Cleaved and uncleaved trimers from different clade viruses are produced.

Abstract: A geopolymer composite binder is provided herein, the composite binder including (i) at least one fly ash material having less than or equal to 15 wt % of calcium oxide; (ii) at least one gelation enhancer; and (iii) at least one hardening enhancer having a different composition from a composition of the at least one fly ash material.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions and methods for converting hazardous waste glass into safe and usable material. In particular, the present invention provides compositions and methods for producing ceramic products from toxic-metal-containing waste glass, thereby safely encapsulating the metals and other hazardous components within the ceramic products.