Several behavioral assays are currently used for high-throughput neurophenotyping and screening of genetic mutations and psychotropic drugs in zebrafish (Danio rerio). In this protocol, we describe a battery of two assays to characterize anxiety-related behavioral and endocrine phenotypes in adult zebrafish. Here, we detail how to use the 'novel tank' test to assess behavioral indices of anxiety (including reduced exploration, increased freezing behavior and erratic movement), which are quantifiable using manual registration and computer-aided video-tracking analyses. In addition, we describe how to analyze whole-body zebrafish cortisol concentrations that correspond to their behavior in the novel tank test. This protocol is an easy, inexpensive and effective alternative to other methods of measuring stress responses in zebrafish, thus enabling the rapid acquisition and analysis of large amounts of data. As will be shown here, fish anxiety-like behavior can be either attenuated or exaggerated depending on stress or drug exposure, with cortisol levels generally expected to parallel anxiety behaviors. This protocol can be completed over the course of 2 d, with a variable testing duration depending on the number of fish used.

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In fulfilling its role as a promotor of critical thinking and of nurturer of students as problem solvers, undergraduate engineering education needs to answer modern educational demands tailoring curricula to meet industry and career requirements and student learning styles. Extended Reality technology, including virtual and mixed reality may enable educators to create tools for multisensory teaching, enhancing learning through guided imagery and haptics. Through undergraduate research, two co-op students explored the VR technology (engine) and developed the framework for a learning module that will present fundamental notions in renewable energy sources, using scenarios based on physical experiments. We developed a virtual reality learning platform and the modeling of the VR framework and applied it to several experimental modules: wind turbine, solar cell (PV) module, a water decomposition and fuel cell module. Students explore concepts as parametric characterizations of the system as well as thermochemical characterization. The module is packed in an executable app, which is downloadable and usable in both VR STEAM immersive environments as well as in a desktop format. Future work will include beta-testing and preliminary assessment of the VR Renewable Lab, followed by its course implementation.