Exploring the HP Model for Protein Folding

We explore the HP model not only on the square lattice as originally proposed by Ken Dill, but we also use the triangular lattice. We find upper and lower bounds on the number of self-avoiding walks. In the square lattice, we get O(b^n) for some b in [2.414, 3]. We count the number of all self-avoiding walks of length up to 16 in the square and triangular lattices by exhaustively listing them. We use these lists of self-avoiding walks to study two HP sequences, one of length 11, and the other of length 16. We show that the diameter of the convex hull of a conformation can be used as an estimate of the energy of the conformation. Our examples demonstrate that the same holds true for the area of the convex hull. Both of these measures can be easily computed for a given conformation

Electric Vehicles: Exploring the Options for Electric Vehicles on Nantucket

Given the growing interest in electric vehicles (EV\u27s) and the possible role they might play in a \u27smart\u27 electric grid, the Town of Nantucket asked us to examine the desirability of encouraging EV\u27s on the Island. Accordingly, we surveyed residents, interviewed key stakeholders, and assessed the costs and benefits of EV\u27s on Nantucket. We conclude: there is significant public interest in EV\u27s; the potential for adopting municipal EV\u27s is limited; the Nissan Leaf is the most viable EV at present; and, the present grid can accommodate the increased electricity demand from charging EV\u27s. We recommend the Town adopt three EV\u27s and consider installing public charging stations at the airport, Wannacomet Water Company, and the proposed Wilkes Square garage