National Research Council Research Articles

ALICENET – an Italian network of automated lidar ceilometers for four-dimensional aerosol monitoring: infrastructure, data processing, and applications

Abstract. ​​​​​​​Vertically resolved information on aerosol particles represents a key aspect in many atmospheric studies, including aerosol–climate interactions and aerosol impacts on air quality and human health. This information is primarily derived by lidar active remote sensing, in particular with extensive networks currently in operation worldwide. In Italy, the Institute of Atmospheric Sciences and Climate (ISAC) of the National Research Council (CNR) established the ALICENET network of automated lidar ceilometers (ALCs) in 2015. Since then, ALICENET has grown as a cooperative effort of Italian institutions dealing with atmospheric science and monitoring, and it currently includes instruments run by regional environmental protection agencies, universities, research centres, and private companies. In the current configuration, the network makes use of both single-channel ALCs and dual-channel, polarisation-sensitive-system ALCs (referred to as PLCs). The systems operate in very different environments (urban, coastal, mountainous, and volcanic areas) from northern to southern Italy, thus allowing the continuous monitoring of the aerosol vertical distribution across the country. ALICENET also contributes to the EUMETNET programme E-PROFILE, filling an Italian observational gap compared to other EU member states, which generally run extended ALC networks through national meteorological services. In this work, we present the ALICENET infrastructure and the specifically developed data processing centralised at CNR-ISAC, converting raw instrumental data into quantitative, quality-controlled information on aerosol properties ranging from attenuated backscatter to aerosol mass and vertical stratifications. This setup allows us to get insights into the 4D aerosol field over Italy with applications from near-real-time monitoring to long-term analyses, examples of which are reported in this work. Specific comparisons of the ALICENET products to independent measurements obtained with different techniques, such as particulate matter (PM) concentrations from in situ samplers and aerosol optical depth (AOD) from sun photometers, are also included here, revealing the good performances of the ALICENET algorithms. Overall, ALICENET represents a valuable resource to extend the current aerosol observational capabilities in Italy and in the Mediterranean area, and it contributes to bridging the gap between atmospheric science and its application to specific sectors, among which are air quality, solar energy, and aviation safety.

Giant landslide, hidden caldera structure, magnetic anomalies and tectonics in southern Tyrrhenian Sea (Italy)

Phlegraean Fields and Ischia Island are large, densely populated, active volcanic structures located in the Campanian Tyrrhenian margin between the onshore and offshore sectors. While the emerged landforms provide significant insights into a series of intense volcano-tectonic events of the last 60 ka, our understanding of the sub-marine portion of these volcanoes remains limited due to its inaccessibility to direct exploration. In the last decades, the use of magnetic methods has proven to be useful in volcanic context, given the presence of large magnetization contrasts, whereas the implementation of a high-resolution Digital Elevation Model (DEM) has allowed the integration of detailed morphological analyses into the geophysical studies. In this work, we present two new high-resolution airborne and shipborne magnetic surveys, carried out by the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV) in the marine sector of the Phlegraean Fields caldera (Pozzuoli Bay) and surrounding sea sectors. Moreover, the new datasets have been integrated with older marine surveys carried out by the National Research Council (CNR) to extend the resulting magnetic anomaly map embracing the whole Campanian offshore volcanic structures, excluding Ischia Island. As a result, we present here three new magnetic anomaly maps used for an integrated interpretation of magnetic, morphological, and tectonic features. The study results provide valuable insights into the relationship between volcanic, magmatic, and tectonic activity, which may be useful for further investigations. Among the most notable findings are: the identification of the magnetic signatures of regional faults, previously unknown caldera structures, and a massive rock avalanche. Consequently, our research provides a significant contribution to seabed exploration aimed at identifying potential hazard factors in the study area.

Protecting subterranean ecosystems for the wellbeing of surface environments and humanity

Protecting subterranean ecosystems for the wellbeing of surface environments and humanity Stefano Mammola, a researcher at the Italian National Research Council and coordinator of the Biodiversa+ project ‘DarCo’, emphasizes the importance of better incorporation of subterranean biodiversity in conservation agendas. Beneath our feet lies a vast and intricate network of caves, aquifers, fissures, and other voids teeming with unique life forms crucial to both human life and the environment. Groundwaters, for instance, represent the largest unfrozen freshwater reserve, serving as the primary water source for over half of the world’s population. Despite their importance, subterranean ecosystems receive minimal attention in current biodiversity and climate change agendas – a concerning oversight that demands urgent action. (1)

On the Capabilities of the IREA-CNR Airborne SAR Infrastructure

In this work, the airborne Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) infrastructure developed at the Institute for Electromagnetic Sensing of the Environment (IREA) of the National Research Council of Italy (CNR) is described. This infrastructure allows IREA-CNR to plan and execute airborne SAR campaigns and to process the acquired data with a twofold aim. On one hand, the aim is to develop research activities; on the other hand, the aim is to support the emergency prevention and management activities of the Department of Civil Protection of the Italian Presidency of the Council of Ministers, for which IREA-CNR serves as National Centre of Competence. Such infrastructure consists of a flight segment and a ground segment that include a multi-frequency airborne SAR sensor based on the Frequency-Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) technology and operating in the X and L bands, an Information Technology (IT) platform for data storage and processing and an airborne SAR data processing chain. In this work, the technical aspects related to the flight and ground segments of the infrastructure are presented. Moreover, a discussion on the response times and characteristics of the final products that can be achieved with the infrastructure is provided with the aim of showing its capabilities to support the monitoring activities required in a possible emergency scenario. In particular, as a case study, the acquisition and subsequent interferometric processing of airborne SAR data relevant to the Stromboli volcanic area in the Sicily region, southern Italy, are presented

Annoyance evaluation of impact sounds on lightweight, concrete and cross-laminated timber floors - A comparative study

For people living in multi-unit residential buildings, neighbor noise and especially impact noise from neighbors, such as dropping objects or footsteps, can affect the quality of living of those who hear the noise. In order to support the inclusion of limits for impact noise in a future edition of the National Building Code of Canada, a project at the National Research Council of Canada has focused on the perceived annoyance from different types of impact sounds for various timber floor-ceiling assemblies. The results from listening experiments showed poor correlation between subjective ratings and objective single number metrics for impact noise due to persons walking without shoes. To extend this evaluation to a wider variety of floor-ceiling assembly types and to validate previous results, another listening experiment was conducted at the National Research Council. Annoyance ratings for ball drops, hammer impacts and footsteps on different lightweight, concrete and cross-laminated timber floor-ceiling assemblies were compared.

Evaluating the measurement of the velocity level difference for building constructions which combine Type A and Type B elements

As part of an ongoing research project in the new four-room flanking facility at the National Research Council Canada, the velocity level differences between cross-laminated timber floors/ceilings and lightweight timber framed walls have been measured according to the standard, ISO 10848-1. The apparent sound reduction indices between the pairs of rooms have also been measured according to ISO 10848-1. The measured apparent sound reduction indices are compared to those predicted according to the standard, ISO 12354-1 based on the measured velocity level differences, the resonant transmission losses and the dimensions of the elements of the flanking paths between the room pairs.

Measured and predicted sound transmission through a laboratory concrete floor

The direct sound transmission through a simple, massive, homogeneous building element with and without lining is investigated experimentally and compared with analytical and empirical models from the literature. A 150 mm thick concrete floor and a 100 mm thick floating floor were measured in the floor transmission facility of the National Research Council Canada, i.e. without flanking sound transmission. In addition to the sound reduction index and the normalized impact sound pressure level, loss factors, radiation efficiencies, and mean squared velocities were recorded in the laboratory. The measured data is compared to established models of sound transmission. A focus is placed on the calculation model of ISO 12354-1 (Appendix B), which uses calculated radiation efficiencies and loss factors to predict the sound reduction index of heavy, homogeneous building elements. Some difficulties with the calculation model and the examples in the standard are discussed. In principle, the results in this study show that the calculation model of ISO 12354-1 gives good estimates when the correct input parameters are used. However, deviations between the calculated and the measured loss factors and radiation efficiencies have large effects on the accuracy of the estimates, particularly in the region around the coincidence frequency.

On the acceptance limits for short-term level fluctuation of sound calibrators

To ensure noise measurement accuracy, sound calibrators are used to check the sound level meter accuracy before and after any such measurements, as required by most noise regulations. The sound calibrator itself needs to be calibrated routinely and traceable to national standards. The International Standard IEC 60942, Electroacoustics - Sound calibrators, specifies performance requirements for the sound pressure level, short-term level fluctuation, frequency, and distortion and associated test methods. However, the acceptance limits for short-term level fluctuation specified in IEC 60942 is problematic. The short-term level fluctuation acceptance limits specified in Table 2 of IEC 60942 for the level variations inherited by a stable sinusoid at low frequencies are either underestimated or overestimated. In this paper, a detailed theoretical analysis is presented addressing this particular issue. Closed-form solutions are obtained for typical sinusoidal sound signals. Two experimental setups and measurement results for the validation of the theoretical analysis are also presented. One uses a commercial sound level meter and the other uses a precision sound pressure measurement system developed recently at the National Research Council Canada. A revised table for the acceptance limits is then proposed for the future revision of Table 2 of IEC 60942.

Primary realization of spectral responsivity in the near infrared using a laser-driven light source

Abstract The National Research Council (NRC) Canada has realized the spectral responsivity scale from 900 nm to 1600 nm using a Xe-based laser driven light source, double subtractive monochromator system, and an absolute cryogenic radiometer. An NRC-designed InGaAs sphere transfer standard radiometer was calibrated with combined relative standard uncertainties below 0.135 % (k=1). The scale realization was also performed with a 100 W tungsten lamp, as previously done at NRC. Calibration results and uncertainties in spectral responsivity measurements with each broadband light source are compared and presented.

An Interactive Vision-Based 3D Augmented Reality System for In-Home Physical Rehabilitation: A Qualitative Inquiry to Inform System Development.

Postoperative physical rehabilitation is crucial after total joint replacement (TJR). However, completing the recommended levels of postoperative physical exercise is challenging for many older adults with TJR. Lack of adequate postoperative physical exercise has negative consequences on rehabilitation outcomes. Innovative rehabilitation tools for postoperative physical exercises are needed to ensure successful rehabilitation outcomes among older adults with TJR. The aim of this study is to explore key knowledge users' perspectives about how to design an interactive vision-based three-dimensional augmented reality system (3D ARS) to support in-home postoperative physical rehabilitation for older adults with TJR. We conducted a qualitative descriptive study involving 11 semi-structured interviews and six focus groups with 42 older adults with TJR and four unrelated family caregivers. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Participant insights were grouped into two main themes: (1) dreaming up possibilities and (2) being pragmatic. The first theme captured participants' reflections on the potential utility of a 3D ARS for postoperative physical rehabilitation and features that could be embedded in the 3D ARS to support successful postoperative physical rehabilitation. The second theme captured participants' reflections on practical issues and considerations that could impact access and usage of the 3D ARS. These findings provide researchers, rehabilitation providers and system developers with the foundations for designing, implementing and evaluating innovative augmented reality tools that support effective in-home physical rehabilitation among older adults with TJR. Research users (i.e., individuals and organisations invested in and using the research findings) were actively engaged throughout this work. Specifically, a meeting was held between the research team and representatives of an Expert by Experience team (individuals with lived experience), which was established to support the National Research Council's (organisation) Aging in Place programme. During this meeting, the idea to develop and evaluate an ARS for postoperative physical rehabilitation of older adults with TJR was supported. Research users had the opportunity to review the current study protocol and provide feedback on the study design, offering direction to maximize the relevance and usefulness of our findings to the National Research Council Canada's Aging in Place programme. Research users contributed to participant recruitment efforts and the development of the interview guide. Two Experts by Experience also agreed to be on the Advisory Panel for this multi-phased study, supporting active engagement and centring the voice of research users in knowledge creation and implementation. These experts reviewed a brief report of the current study findings, and continue to guide how the study findings are used to inform the next phase of this multi-phased research.

Space radiation measured during first-ever commercial suborbital mission on Virgin Galactic SpaceShipTwo Unity on 29 June 2023

The paper presents the variations of space radiation (primary and secondary galactic cosmic rays (GCR) absorbed dose rate in silicon and flux) measured during the first-ever commercial suborbital flight of the Virgin Galactic (VG) SpaceShipTwo Unity on 29 June 2023. A Portable Dosimeter-Spectrometer Liulin-CNR-VG is used. It is developed in the Space Research and Technology Institute, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (SRTI-BAS) under a scientific contract with National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Italy. Liulin-CNR-VG size is 63х54 × 23 mm. Its weight is 0.092 kg. During the first part of the SpaceShipTwo flight, up to 14.4 km, the dose rate rises from 0.058 μGy h-1 up to 2.5 μGy h-1. Above the altitude of 30 km, the dose rate falls to 2.2 μGy h-1, while the dose to flux ratio increases to values about 1.0 nGy cm2 particle-1. The latter confirms the outcomes of previous balloon experiments, i.e. the change of the composition of the radiation field of the GCR and secondary radiation source from predominantly light particles as electrons, pions and muons towards heavier particles as protons and neutrons. On the descending part of the flight, one maximum in the flux and dose rate curves is obtained as Regener-Pfotzer maximum (R-PM). The flux calculated by the moving avervage is equal to 1.2 cm-2 s-1 and the dose rate is equal to 2.9 μGy h-1 at an altitude of 13 km. These values are well in line with those expected in conditions of relatively high solar activity, such as during the flight. The dose rates measured by Liulin-CNR-VG are in good agreement with other Liulin data, such as those recorded during balloon flights in 2005 and 2015 and civil aviation flights. The calculated total equivalent dose rate during the VG SpaceShipTwo flight is 7.46 μSv for 1.22 h. This reveals that there is a very small radiation risk for the pilots and astronauts flying at the VG SpaceShipTwo up to 85.1 1 km altitude.

Estimating net energy requirements of male Djallonke sheep

Context Energy requirements in sheep can vary significantly due to various factors, including age, breed, sex and environmental conditions. Genetic selection and crossbreeding further contribute to this variability. Although guidelines from the US and UK national research councils are commonly used for formulating sheep diets, they may not adequately account for the unique characteristics of sheep in Africa. Aims The study aimed to estimate the net maintenance energy requirement of male Djallonke sheep. This estimation will provide a basis for comparing the energy requirements of Djallonke sheep with national recommendations and recent estimates for other sheep breeds. Methods Sixteen entire male Djallonke sheep were selected and grouped by weight. They were then randomly allocated to four treatment groups in a 4 × 4 Latin square design. The sheep were fed to achieve intake levels ranging from 1 to 1.75 multiples of their maintenance energy requirement. Gas exchange data were collected using the GreenFeed system over a 3-day period at the conclusion of each treatment period. Heat production was calculated using the established Brouwer’s equation. A linear regression equation was developed to relate heat production to metabolisable energy intake scaled by metabolic bodyweight to calculate the net energy for maintenance. Key results The estimated net energy for maintenance for male Djallonke sheep was determined to be 0.354 MJ/kg BW0.75. This estimation indicated that the energy requirements of male Djallonke sheep exceeded the recommendations provided by the US National Research Council and the UK Agricultural and Food Research Council. However, it closely aligned with an updated estimate of 0.358 MJ/kg BW0.75. Conclusions Based on the study’s findings, male Djallonke sheep have higher energy requirements for maintenance than what is commonly recommended by existing guidelines. Therefore, it is advisable to update ration formulation software for male Djallonke sheep to better reflect their actual energy requirements for maintenance. Implications These results have practical implications for the formulation of diets and feeding management practices for male Djallonke sheep. Adhering to updated energy requirement estimates can help improve the efficiency and productivity of sheep production in the context of Djallonke sheep farming.

PSI-16 Evaluation of protein quality of defatted black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae meal compared with traditional protein sources for dogs and cats

Abstract There is increased interest in the use of insects, such as black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae meal (BSFLM), as an alternative protein source in pet foods. However, additional information is needed to determine how BSFL protein quality compares with traditional pet food protein sources. Thus, the objectives of this study were to determine the chemical composition, amino acid digestibility, and protein quality of defatted BSFLM in comparison with whole egg powder (WEP) and chicken meal (CM) using the precision-fed cecectomized rooster assay. Fifteen cecectomized roosters (n = 5 per substrate) were randomly allocated to the test substrates BSFLM, CM, and WEP. After 26 h of feed withdrawal, 20 g of substrates were crop-fed and excreta were collected for 48 h. Digestible indispensable amino acid score (DIAAS)-like values were calculated using the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), The European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF), and National Research Council (NRC) reference values for different life stages of dogs and cats. Data were analyzed using SAS Proc Mixed 9.4 with P ≤ 0.05 significance. On a dry matter basis, CM had the greatest crude protein (70.2%), followed by BSFLM (59.8%), and WEP (51.2%). In general, WEP had greater amino acid digestibility than BSFLM and CM. BSFLM (84%) and CM (84%) had comparable arginine digestibility, but less than WEP (92%). Lysine digestibility was greater for BSFLM (80%) in contrast with CM (74%), but less than WEP (91%). DIAAS-like values were calculated, revealing methionine + cysteine as the first limiting amino acids for growing puppies and adult dogs in BSFLM according to AAFCO, FEDIAF, and NRC, whereas for CM threonine was the first limiting amino acid based on AAFCO, and phenylalanine + tyrosine based on NRC and FEDIAF. NRC identified methionine and cysteine as limiting for all test substrates in adult dogs. Methionine and cysteine were limiting for growing kittens for BSFLM among AAFCO, FEDIAF, and NRC. For CM and WEP, phenylalanine and tyrosine was the first-limiting amino acid by NRC and FEDIAF. For adult cats, phenylalanine and tyrosine were the limiting amino acid for BSFLMand CM according to AAFCO and FEDIAF, with NRC identifying it as limiting across all protein sources. In summary, methionine and cysteine and/or phenylalanine and tyrosine were the primary limiting amino acids among the protein sources evaluated. In general, BSFLM had comparable indispensable standardized amino acid digestibility to CM.

PSLBII-3 Influence of iron supplementation on insulin and glucose dynamics in horses

Abstract Iron is an essential micromineral involved in various physiological functions such as oxygen transport. The National Research Council’s Nutrient Requirements of Horses has iron requirements set at 400 mg iron daily for a 500 kg horse at maintenance; however, a survey found that Thoroughbreds consumed well over the daily requirement at 3,900 mg of iron from hay and grain alone. Additionally, a previous study has found a correlation between hyperinsulinemia and increased ferritin, an indicator of iron body stores. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to determine the effects of iron supplementation on body iron stores as well as insulin and glucose dynamics. It was hypothesized that iron supplementation would influence body iron stores and insulin and glucose responses. Mixed-breed geldings [n = 12; 558.9 ± 74.4 kg body weight (BW)] were housed individually for the study. Horses were fed 2% of their BW in grass hay and an iron-free vitamin mineral supplement, consuming an average of 600 mg of iron daily for the first 28 d (Hay Phase). Horses were then assigned to continue on the hay diet (CTRL; n = 4) or an iron-supplemented diet (IRON; n = 8), in which an oral iron supplement was given daily in the form of ferrous sulfate, with IRON horses consuming an average of 4,000 mg of iron daily for 28 d (Supplement Phase). Oral sugar tests (OSTs) were performed at the beginning of the study as well as the end of each phase, using a 0.45 mL/kg of BW Karo Light Syrup dose to determine insulin response, with jugular venous samples taken prior to the dose and 60 min after. All statistical analysis was performed in GraphPadPrism Version 10.2.0 (GraphPad Software, Boston, MA), using analysis of variance for repeated measures and correlation analysis. All OSTs throughout the study had a significant time effect (P < 0.05) for both insulin and glucose. There was a time X treatment trend (P = 0.1) for insulin during the Supplement Phase and when using multiple comparisons, insulin response was significantly greater (P < 0.0007) at 0 versus 60 min in IRON horses. Although there was no correlation found between 60-min insulin and ferritin concentrations in both IRON and CTRL horses, mean ± SD insulin and ferritin in the IRON group were 23.6 ± 10 uU/mL and 570 ± 195.8 ng/mL, respectively, while in the CTRL group these were 12.7 ± 2.9 uU/mL and 453 ± 31.1 ng/mL, respectively. In conclusion, iron supplementation with an inorganic form at 10 times the daily requirement appears to result in increased insulin responses as well as body iron stores. Further research needs to determine if feeds naturally enriched in iron impact glucose metabolism.

PSLBI-18 Isoleucine requirements of young adult and senior Labrador retrievers

Abstract Age-appropriate diets that meet the unique nutritional needs of aging are in greater demand as senior dogs represent an increasing percentage of the pet population. Studies targeting the specific amino acid requirements of the aging canine are important because they may inform dietary formulations for this specific life stage. In this study, the indicator amino acid oxidation (IAAO) technique was used to determine the minimum requirements for isoleucine (Iso) in young adult and senior Labrador retrievers. After 2-d adaptation to Iso-adequate basal diet (Iso = 0.608% dry matter), dogs underwent individual IAOO studies. In brief, all dogs were randomly fed one of six test diets with varying levels of isoleucine ranging from deficient to sufficient (final Iso content in experimental diets were 0.244, 0.285, 0.326, 0.532, 0.57 and 0.608% dry matter). Test diet was divided into 13 equal meals; at the 5th meal, a tracer amino acid was supplied (a bolus L-[1-13C] phenylalanine based on body weight was first given, followed by [1-13C] Phe doses every 30 min spanning a 4 h period), and breath samples were collected via respiration mask every 30 min. CO2 production was determined via indirect calorimetry and production of 13CO2 at each dose was measured by enrichment of 13C in breath samples via isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS). Results for IRMS data were converted to atom percent excess (APE) and analyzed using segmented linear regression. The Four Rivers mean and population requirements for isoleucine were 898 ± 71 mg/1,000 kcal ME (mean ± 2 SD) for young adults and 885 ± 91 mg/1,000 kcal ME (mean ± 2 SD) in senior dogs, which is slightly greater than the National Research Council’s minimum requirement. As the pet food industry offers more specialized diets for aging canines, updating the amino acid requirements for such animals is increasingly important.

PSIII-1 The effects of maternal diet on ram lamb reproductive characteristics

Abstract Maternal nutrition during gestation and resulting impacts on ram reproduction and epigenetics are poorly understood. We previously reported altered mRNA and epigenetic markers in F1 ram sperm due to poor maternal diet (restricted- and over-feeding) during gestation, yet the multigenerational effects on ram reproduction are unexplored. We hypothesized that F2 offspring born from restricted- and over-fed granddams would exhibit altered reproductive characteristics, and F1 and F2 offspring would display altered circulating concentrations of reproductive hormones. The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of poor maternal diet on 1) the reproductive function of F2 ram offspring, and 2) key reproductive hormones in F1 and F2 offspring. To evaluate these objectives, multiparous Dorset ewes (F0, n = 46) were fed 100% (CON), 60% (RES), or 140% (OVER) of National Research Council requirements from d 30 of gestation through parturition and a control diet during lactation. Offspring are identified as CON-F1 (n = 10 ewes; 12 rams), RES-F1 (n = 13 ewes; 21 rams), and OVER-F1 (n = 16 ewes; 15 rams). The F1 ewes (n = 37) were maintained on a control diet throughout and were bred between 16 and 19 mo of age to establish the F2 generation. Resulting male offspring are referred to as CON-F2 (n = 6 rams), RES-F2 (n = 13 rams), and OVER-F2 (n = 9 rams) in correspondence to the diets of the granddam. Semen samples of F2 rams were collected via electroejaculation at d 248.4 ± 0.36 (collection 1) and d 255.4 ± 0.36 (collection 2). Semen quality (volume, pH, sperm motility, and sperm concentration) was evaluated at both collections using mCASA; iSperm, Aidmics Biotechnology Co., LTD. Scrotal circumference was measured at collection 2. Sperm morphology was determined by contrast microscopy. Testosterone (T) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) were measured in F1 and F2 serum samples collected at d 256 ± 0.13 using commercially available kits. Data were analyzed using R Studio with P ≤ 0.05 considered significant and 0.05 < P ≤ 0.10 considered a tendency. An effect of granddam diet was not observed for F2 ram semen volume, pH, sperm motility, sperm concentration, scrotal circumference, nor histological sperm morphology (P ≥ 0.25). An effect of F0 diet was not observed for F1 or F2 offspring serum concentrations of T and FSH (P ≥ 0.28). In our model, F0 diet during gestation did not affect F2 male offspring sperm quality or circulating T and FSH in F1 and F2 generations. However, based on our previous reports that F0 diet altered F1 sperm epigenome, there may be an impact of maternal diet on epigenetic inheritance which warrants further exploration.

304 Amino acid digestibility and protein quality of fermented soybean-based ingredients using the precision-fed cecectomized rooster assay

Abstract Fermented soybean-based ingredients may serve as an alternative protein source for pet foods because of their high-quality protein content. The amino acid (AA) content and protein quality of fermented soybean-based ingredients may vary depending on their composition and processing, however, so testing is required. Our objective was to measure the AA composition, AA digestibility, and protein quality of fermented soybean-based ingredients using the precision fed cecectomized rooster assay. The University of Illinois Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee approved all animal procedures prior to experimentation. Cecectomized roosters (n = 36; six roosters per substrate) were randomly allotted to one of five test substrates: 1) autoclaved soybean (ASB); 2) fermented soybeans (FSB); 3) fermented soybeans with probiotics (FSBP); 4) fermented soybean meal (FSBM); 5) fermented soybean meal with probiotics (FSBMP). After 26 h of feed withdrawal, roosters were tube-fed test substrates. Following crop intubation excreta samples were collected 48 h. Endogenous loss corrections for AA were made by using five additional cecectomized roosters. All data were analyzed using SAS version 9.4. All substrates had increased AA digestibilities, with all indispensable AA digestibilities being >80% except for lysine (78.1% to 86.9%). Tryptophan digestibility was less (P < 0.05) in FSB than other substrates, but other AA digestibilities were not different. Digestible indispensable AA score (DIAAS)-like values were calculated to determine protein quality according to nutritional guidelines for adult dogs, adult cats, growing puppies, and growing kittens. The most limiting AA was the same for all ingredients. In adult dogs, methionine was the most limiting AA based on National Research Council (NRC; DIAAS: 33.4-35.1), European Pet Food Industry Nutritional Guidelines (FEDIAF; DIAAS: 49.6-52.1), and Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO; DIAAS: 60.2-63.2) guidelines. In adult cats, phenylalanine was the most limiting AA (DIAAS: 59.5-63.2) when using NRC guidelines, but DIAAS were above 100 for FEDIAF and AAFCO guidelines. In growing puppies, methionine was most limiting according to NRC (DIAAS: 56.7-59.6) and FEDIAF (DIAAS: 78.8-82.7) guidelines, but threonine was most limiting according to AAFCO (DIAAS: 68.8-72.3) guidelines. In growing kittens, methionine was most limiting according to NRC (DIAAS: 70.9-74.4) and AAFCO (53.4-56.0) guidelines, but phenylalanine was most limiting according to FEDIAF (DIAAS: 66.7-70.8) guidelines. Our results demonstrate that fermented soybean-based ingredients are high-quality protein sources. Even though they have one or more limiting AA, they would serve as strong complementary proteins for pet foods. Further research in dogs and cats is necessary to confirm sufficient palatability and digestibility, but these data suggest that they are valuable sources of protein for pet food.

A Review of Methods to Assess Groundwater Vulnerability to Pollution

Groundwater resources that are increasingly being cherished for most socioeconomic development are exposed to varied pollutant sources. Studies have shown that they are vulnerable to various impacts such as climatic change, human impacts and also pollution from seawater intrusion in coastal areas. The susceptibility of a groundwater body to pollution indicates extent to which its quality is at risk of being compromised by contaminants. Assessments of this vulnerability are classified based on scale (site, local, regional) or objective (such as risk management or protection zoning) and also distinguish between source and resource vulnerability maps, as well as specific and intrinsic vulnerability maps. Groundwater vulnerability assessment methods differ based on several factors, including the availability and spatial distribution of quantitative and qualitative data, the objectives and scale of the mapping, the costs of model development, and the particular hydrogeological characteristics of the aquifer under investigation. The National Research Council has classified these methods into three primary categories: process-based methods, statistical methods, and overlay/index methods. Among these, the overlay/index method is widely employed for conducting large-scale assessments of aquifer sensitivity and groundwater vulnerability. It is especially advantageous in developing countries due to the easily accessible data required for its implementation.

Investigating Ways to Mitigate the Effects of Wildfires on Structures

Wildfires are increasingly becoming a cause of concern with rising global temperatures. Understanding ways to mitigate wildfire impact on structures is vital for future development to reduce the risk of fire spread and destruction. Through my involvement with Dr. Mark Green’s research group, I gained a novel understanding of the importance of this global issue while also gaining insight into possible solutions. Doctoral student Tadele Getu writes about the factors influencing housing resiliency and mitigation measures elaborating on ways to reduce fire risk in homes. During my assistance with this paper, emphasis on the types of materials and housing building strategies were highlighted in the screening and data extraction process. Moreover, PhD student Branna MacDougal focuses her thesis on the impact of fire on insulated concrete panels. Using furnaces at the National Research Council, I witnessed the specimens’ performance under high temperatures. Assisting in the lab with MacDougal’s project, I helped test key factors that affected the panels' performance under high temperatures, such as the concrete’s strength. I also looked at the impacts of adhesives on wood specimens in collaboration with Joshua Woods and Post Doctoral student Bronwyn Chorlton under high heat by testing wood and rebar samples. Given Dr. Chorlton’s background in timber structures, I helped collect preliminary material for her future paper about mass timber by looking into encapsulated timber structures through standards and codes. Assisting Chorlton with this research has offered insight into the tools that are used for fire research such as the Satec Instron, for which I developed an instructional manual. Getting involved with these projects has provided me with insight into how engineering can be used to innovate against a big problem in our society that is the rising concern of wildfire occurrence.

Outreach in coordinated individual events: the GCS format of CNR Italy

Abstract Global Conversation on Sustainability (GCS) 2023 was enthusiastically welcomed by researchers of the National Research Council of Italy (CNR). Highly committed to international organizations such as IUPAC and ISC, the promoters participated to the 2023 edition of the Global Conversation on Sustainability hosting a local in person event held in one of the major CNR institute for chemistry research. The format was a round-table discussion involving colleagues of different age, gender, experience, and area of expertise, who participated to an informal dialogue with the aim of reflecting and sharing aspects of the respective research activities contributing to sustainable development goals. From many chemistry research areas, it emerged a wide range of subjects, which stimulated an interesting and purpose-oriented discussion. Therefore, GCS 2023 at CNR prompted a reflection on how improving chemists’ impact on sustainability including laboratories’ practises and on considering communication becoming part of scientific process. Transformation requires continuous investment in research and innovation and evolving scientific activities, but also requires synergies, collaborations and policy making on cross-cutting issues that can make this successful. Global initiatives as GCS, in the framework of international scientific organizations, represent a key global vehicle for enhancing the big area of science communication. Overcoming time and spatial limitations, these initiatives enable to link global and locally tailored in person events.