Feed Mixture Research Articles

Microbiological Quality of Feed

Background: In most countries, the microbiological quality of complete feed mixtures, grains, silages and hay is sadly a much-underrated aspect of official feed control. Monitoring the microbiological quality of feeds downgrades any of the poor quality feeds and stimulates feed mills to produce better quality feeds, therefore, enforcing the prominence of high-quality feeds on the market. Objectives: To collect the results of the microbiological feed quality, done over a period of one year, all of which originate from Croatia, Slovenia, and Switzerland. Furthermore, identify the presence of feedingstuffs with poor microbiological quality in some parts of the European market and therefore have the most impact on animal health and welfare. Methods: Feed quality was assessed through a single Verband deutscher landwirtschaftlicher Untersuchungs - und Forschungsanstalten (VDLUFA) method based on a systematic approach, which categorizes feed into categories from 1 to 4 according to bacteria, moulds, and yeasts content, and their ecology and hazard significance. Results: Although the most analyzed samples of feed belong to the most desirable quality level 1, it should be emphasized that almost all feed types can be found samples of quality level 4, unacceptable for feed. Conclusion: The obtained results give an overview of the advantages of monitoring the microbiological quality of feeds for governmental authorities, producers, and consumers alike and potentially provide more information concerning the new aspects of the risk assessment of certain types of feeds or their raw materials.

Utilization of shell waste as an adsorbent to reduce Fe (Iron) Metal

Background: So far, clam and crab shells have only been used for handicrafts such as wall hangings, or for animal feed mixtures. Shellfish shell waste contains high calcium carbonate, which is 98%, which has the potential to be utilized. Based on the results of previous studies on clam shell powder, the results were quite good at absorbing heavy metals. This research exploits the potential of shellfish in another form, namely shell ash as an alternative adsorbent that is environmentally friendly, because shell ash consists of compounds namely 7.88% SiO2, 1.25% Al2O3, 0.03% Fe2O3, 66.70% CaO, and 22.28% MgO. Based on the chemical composition, the CaO content in the shell ash is quite high so that the shell ash has the potential as an adsorbent. Purpose: to determine the ability of clam shells as an Fe adsorbent. Method: This type of research is quasi-experimental in nature, which is a research method that uses a quantitative approach, carrying out three control activities, manipulating activities and observation. In this study the researchers treated water containing Fe using blood clam shells and green mussel shells, as adsorbents. Results: Based on these results it can be seen that there is a decrease in iron (Fe) content by using variations in the size of clam shell granules as an adsorbent. The smaller the size of the clam shell granules, the lower the iron (Fe) content in groundwater. The highest percentage of reduction in iron (Fe) content was in 0.8 mm shell granules with a reduction percentage of 89%. Based on the research results, the ability of hemp shells to reduce Fe levels was very good, from a Fe level of 3.656 mg/liter after being filtered with blood clam media it decreased to a level of 0.132 mg/liter. Almost seeding the gold standard (ferrolite) which can reduce up to 0.033 mg/liter. Meanwhile, green mussels can reduce up to 2.64 mg/l. Conclusion: the ability of blood clam shells to reduce Fe levels is very good, able to reduce 96.39% (effective), almost seeding the gold standard (Ferolite) which can reduce up to 99.10%. Meanwhile, green mussels were only able to reduce up to 27.79% (not effective).

Dehydration of Aqueous Ethanol Mixtures By Extractive Distillation

This paper investigate the dehydration of ethanol by extractive distillation process with salt in solvent and also without salt. There are many sources to produce ethanol. It can be obtained from plants and agricultural wastes as well as olefins from cracking units of petroleum refining. Because the methods of ethanol production are the hydration method and fermentation, water molecules are present in ethanol. It has to be dehydrated to use as a fuel in automobile engines and other applications. There are many methods to separate water from ethanol to improved concentration. In this paper, the dehydration of ethanol is carried out by extractive distillation process and use ethylene glycol as a separating agent with calcium chloride as salt in order to improve the concentration of ethanol. Different ratios of ethanol-water and ethylene glycol such as (1:1:0, 1:1:0.25, 1:1:0.25 (20% of solvent)) were tested to obtain the best result of concentration percent. The maximum ethanol concentration was 92 vol% which obtained from 52 vol% ethanol in feed mixture.

Improvement of the design of the feed mixer and analysis of its performance

BACKGROUND: It has been proven by science and practice that feeding animals with complete feed mixtures can increase the productivity of feed. The preparation of loose feed mixtures has become most widespread. The analytical review of scientific and research works in the field of machinery and technology for the preparation of complete feed mixtures showed the advantage of using batch feed mixers. This is related to the fact that due to the circulation of feed components in a mixer, high quality of feed mixtures is achieved. At the same time, the issue of research and selection of reasonable parameters for improved ideological options in the direction of reducing energy and resource costs remains relevant.
 AIMS: Improvement of the design of a vertical batch mixer, elimination of cases of delay in unloading the finished mixture, which negatively affects productivity and the energy, labor and material costs associated with it.
 METHODS: The object of the research is the technology and design of a batch feed mixer. The cyclic and hourly average productivity of the mixer is studied. Mathematical expressions that describe the dependence of the loading and unloading duration on the mixer tankage are given. The influence of the mixer tankage on the mixer performance, expressed with a special coefficient, is analyzed. The coefficient range, which positively affects the performance of the facility, has been determined.
 RESULTS: It has been established that with the constructive and technological improvement of mixers and ensuring the proper operation, the tankage does not serve as the main factor for productivity increase.
 CONCLUSIONS: The maximum productivity of the vertical batch mixer is mainly ensured with the number of cycles of the auger and with the periodic forced supply of the mixture, whereas the quality of mixing depends on the angle of the vane opener.

Bioenergy Model of Plant Raw Materials and Assessment of Feed Production Technologies

It is noted that the effectiveness of the technological processes in agriculture is usually evaluated according to economic, operational and relative criteria. Such an estimate often proves to be inaccurate for solving applied problems. The functioning of the biotechnical system "operator – feed – machine – animal" reveals this discrepancy to the highest extent. The paper confirms the necessity and relevance of a fact-based analysis of energy flows in the biotechnical system, as well as the energy flows interaction with each other and with the external environment. (Research purpose) To substantiate a methodological approach to assessing the fodder production efficiency based on a bioenergetic analysis of fodder production technologies. (Materials and methods) The research involves the comparative analysis of exchange energy accumulation by plants before harvesting and the parameters of its reduction in the plant raw materials, taking into account technological impacts. (Results and discussion) It is obtained that a one-megajoule input of mechanical energy in the cultivation of cereal-grass forage mixtures provides 121 megajoules of exchange energy. The exchange energy content in the cereal-grass forage mixture is calculated to be 44,850 megajoules per hectare (1950 megajoules per ton) while the specific mechanical energy consumption amounts to 370.6 megajoules per hectare (16.1 megajoules per ton) for the feed mixture cultivation. (Conclusions) It is established that the dynamics of energy accumulation during the vegetable raw material cultivation and the character of a decrease in its energy content during fodder preparation and storage have a sustainable common trend. The growth trend of energy accumulation is proved to have a linear character for both various types of fodder crops and the decrease in the feed energy content. Efficiency assessment criteria are proposed for the mechanical energy consumption during fodder crop cultivation, plant material processing and feed storage. A mathematical model is developed making it possible to study implicit variables in a complex system of accumulation and entropy of feed exchange energy, take optimal engineering decisions to justify and improve the technologies for feed cultivation, harvesting and preparation, as well as its effective use.

Effects of hemp seed and flaxseed on enzyme activity in the broiler chicken digestive tract.

The activity of enzymes in the digestive tract is an important parameter for appropriate digestive tract function. Feed mixtures can be adjusted to support enzymatic activity in different parts of the digestive tract. Flaxseed and hemp seed are commodities and significant sources of nutrition, and their addition to feed could change enzymatic activity in the digestive tract and improve nutritional intake. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of flaxseed, hemp seed and a combination of both on basic enzymes in the polysaccharidase group, such as amylase, cellulase, pectinase, xylanase and inulinase; basic enzymes in the disaccharidase group, including maltase, invertase and lactase; proteinases and lipases in the digestive tract of broiler chickens. During the experiment, the control group was fed a diet without flaxseed or hemp seed. The diet of the second group contained 80g/kg flaxseed, the diet of the third group contained 40g/kg hemp seed, and the diets of the fourth to sixth groups contained 80 and 30g/kg, 80 and 40g/kg and 80 and 50g/kg flaxseed and hemp seed, respectively. Enzyme activity was found to depend on the location in the digestive tract and the composition of the feed mixture (P<0.05). Most enzymatic conversion occurs in the ileum, where the addition of flaxseed and hemp seed to the diet increased most enzyme activities, namely, amylase, cellulase, pectinase, xylanase, maltase, invertase, proteinase and lipase activities. The highest values of enzyme activity were found in groups IV-VI fed a combination of flaxseed and hempseed, especially in chickens fed diet VI (flaxseed and hemp seed at 80 and 50g/kg). Growth performance results confirmed the enzyme activity results, as the weights of the chickens increased after the addition of flaxseed and/or hemp seed. The findings have economic implications, suggesting that feeding a diet with a combination of flaxseed and hemp seed is beneficial.

Особливості росту дволіток веслоноса (Polyodon spathula Walbaum, 1792) в умовах ставового господарства Лісостепу України

Purpose. To investigate the peculiarities of growth of age-1+ paddlefish depending on water temperature and quantitative parameters of zooplankton development in ponds of the forest-steppe zone of Ukraine. Methodology. Age-1+ paddlefish, a North American zooplanktophagus were reared in polyculture with cyprinids in a 72-hectare pond using semi-intensive technology. The stocking density of age-1 paddlefish with an average weight of 86.5 g was 59 fish/ha, with a total stocking density of 2,402 fish/ha for all objects of polyculture. The intensification measures included fertilization of ponds with traditional organic fertilizers and feeding of carp with feed mixtures based on waste from the processing of agricultural raw materials of plant origin. The study of the intensity of development of the natural food supply and physicochemical parameters of water was carried out according to the methods generally accepted in hydrobiology and hydrochemistry. Determination of piscicultural parameters and growth characteristics of age-1+ paddlefish was carried out using methods common in ichthyology based on the dynamics of body weight gains in absolute and relative values. Findings. The conditions of the pond environment during most of the period of rearing of age-1+ paddlefish met the biological requirements of this species. A periodic decrease in the content of oxygen dissolved in water to 3.3-3.5 mgO2/dm3 was noted, which could negatively affect the growth of fish. Water temperature during the fish breeding period varied between 9.8-26.5oC. The average seasonal biomass of phytoplankton and zooplankton of the pond was 16.49 mg/dm3 and 3.92 g/m3, respectively, with a predominance of Cladocera and Copepoda (respectively, 61.0 and 34.5% in the average seasonal biomass) in the quantitative composition of zooplankton. As a result, age-1+ paddlefish reached an average weight of 1318.3 g with a fish productivity of 45.6 kg/ha and a total pond fish productivity of 1162.6 kg/ha. Maximum relative weight gains of paddlefish of 4.25–4.37% per day were observed during the first half of the growing season (mainly in June) at a water temperature of 22–25oC during the period of increase in zooplankton biomass from 3.79 to 10.11 g/m3. Originality. New data were obtained on the growth characteristics of paddlefish depending on environmental conditions of the ponds of the Forest-Steppe zone of Ukraine. Practical value. The study results can be used in the process of improving pond aquaculture technologies in Ukraine. Key words: pond aquaculture, paddlefish, growth, zooplankton, water temperature.

Effectiveness of fattening cattle on diets of different energy levels with the use of probiotic feed additive “PROGALplv”

A full-fledged yearling of young cattle should be based on scientifically based standards, guaranteeing their genetic productivity potential, rational use of feed resources, and proper payment for feed with meat products. The current situation regarding the rationing of yearling livestock in global and domestic, both scientific and production practices, has fundamentally changed, which requires a significant revision of traditional provisions on the organization of rationed yearling and feeding of farm animals. At the same time, the conceptual requirements for the organization of standardized feeding of young livestock should be based on the general world experience of the need for energy, nutrients, and biologically active substances of animals, taking into account the age period of the growing season, with an emphasis on the quality and biosafety of products. In the intensive production of meat products, to ensure high productivity, it is only possible to do so by using feed products of natural substance, which should include additives with a phytobiological effect. One of these consists of the feed supplement “PROGALplv,” which contains the probiotic component maltodenstrin and fructooligosaccharides and belongs to the probiotic supplement for ruminants. Based on the research, optimizing the standardized feeding of fattening young animals on diets with different energy levels and using the biological feed additive “PROGALplv” at the rate of 6, 10, and 15 g/head was set a day. The research was conducted on Simmental bulls in the conditions of the farm “Pchany-Denkovych” of the Stryi district of the Lviv region. It was established that using “PROGALplv” bio-additives in the ration against the background of different energy nutrition contributed to an increase in the intensity of physiologically helpful microflora of the rumen, which had a stimulating effect in the processes of additional assimilation of nutrients. A positive result was obtained regarding the average daily gains and quality indicators of meat products and the economic efficiency of the final fattening period. Thus, based on the results of our research, it is possible to recommend the introduction of an increased level of energy nutrition of 110 % of the explicit norms into the intensive technology of livestock removal at the expense of an entirely rational feed mixture with the inclusion of the probiotic feed additive “PROGALplv” at the rate of 10 g/head per day. The optimal introduction dose to compound feed compliance is 10 g/head. The maximum amount can be no more than 15 g/h. daily. No adverse side effects of “PROGALplv” bio-additives on the general functional condition of Bugai residents were found.

APPLICATION EFFICIENCY OF THE ADDITIVE "MEGABUST RUMEN" IN MILK PRODUCTION

В статье приведены материалы исследований по использованию на высокопродуктивных голштинизированных коровах чёрно-пёстрой породы кормовой добавки «МегаБуст Румен». Целью исследований явилось определение эффективности влияния активатора рубцового пищеварения «МегаБуст Румен» на молочную продуктивность коров. Данный препарат российского производства, содержит ферментативный экстракт, комплекс живых дрожжей, пектин и витамины группы В. Под действием добавки происходит изменение состава микрофлоры рубца жвачных животных. В опыте на коровах с удоем 9–10 тыс. кг за лактацию были изучены, применительно к транзитному периоду, две дозировки препарата активатора рубцового пищеварения «МегаБуст Румен» – 50 и 100 г/гол./сут., а с 22 по 150 день лактации – одна – 100 г/гол./сут. Во время позднего сухостоя животные контрольной группы из 29 кг поедали смеси на 84,5%, потребление коровами 1 и 2 опытных групп составило в среднем за сутки 89,7 и 93,1% от задаваемого количества. Анализ фактических рационов дойных коров также показал, что в опытных группах поедаемость кормовой смеси была выше, что и предопределило их более высокие удои. В среднем за 5 месяцев лактации суточные удои коров 1 и 2 опытных групп достигли 35,5 и 36,5 кг против 32,9 кг у коров контрольной группы. Достоверное повышение удоев на 7,9 и 10,9% получено от коров, в кормлении которых применялась изучаемая добавка. Установлено, что введение активатора рубцового пищеварения «МегаБуст Румен» оказало положительное действие на поедаемость кормов животными, их продуктивность и рентабельность производства молока. Наиболее эффективна доза скармливания добавки в количестве 100 г/гол./сут. с позднего сухостоя до середины лактации, когда суточные удои увеличиваются на 10,9% (с 32,9 до 36,5 кг) и рентабельность производства молока – на 2,5% (с 23,0 до 25,5%). The article presents research materials on the use of the feed additive "MegaBust Rumen" on highly productive Holsteinized cows of the Black-and-White breed. The goal of the research was to determine the effeciency of the influence of the ruminal digestion activator "MegaBust Rumen" on the milk productivity of cows. This Russian-made preparation contains an enzymatic extract, a complex of live yeast, pectin and vitamins of group B. Under the action of the additive the composition of the ruminant rumen microflora changes. In an experiment on the cows with a yield of 9–10 thousand kg per lactation two preparation doses of the ruminal digestion activator "MegaBust Rumen" were studied in relation to the transition period – 50 and 100 g/head/day, and from 22 to 150 days lactation – one – 100 g/head/day. During the late dry period the animals of the control group of 29 kg ate mixtures by 84.5%, the consumption by cows of the 1st and 2nd experimental groups averaged 89.7 and 93.1% of the set amount per day. An analysis of the actual diets of milk cowbanes also showed that in the experimental groups the feed mixture intake was higher, which predetermined their higher milk yields. On average, for 5 months of lactation the daily yield of cows of the 1st and 2nd experimental groups reached 35.5 and 36.5 kg compared to 32.9 kg in the cows of the control group. A significant increase in yield by 7.9 and 10.9% was obtained from cows in the feeding of which the studied additive was used. It has been established that the introduction of the ruminal digestion activator "MegaBust Rumen" had a positive effect on the feed intake by animals, their productivity and the profitability of milk production. The most effective dose of feeding the additive is in the amount of 100 g/head/day from the late dry period to the middle of lactation, when daily milk yields are increased by 10.9% (from 32.9 to 36.5 kg) and the profitability of milk production – by 2.5% (from 23.0 to 25.5%).

Study of the effects of butyric acid and propanediol of the intestine in ICR mice

The effect of gut microbiota correctors on the motility of the gastrointestinal tract of ICR mice was studied. Two feed additives were used - compositions based on glycerol and 1.3 propanediol and Salkoli Mono BP Dry. Three groups of 10-12 animals each were formed according to the principle of analogues: two experimental and one control. Experimental feed mixtures were made by saturating 200 g of feed with sunflower oil, 1.3 propanediol, glycerol (experimental group 1); the feed mixture of experimental group 2 was additionally mixed with the feed additive Salkoli Mono BP Dry. To estimate the rate of fecal excretion, 100 µl of fluorescent tags (fluorescent ink green and red) were given to mice of all groups, previously mixed with water 1: 1. The timing of the appearance of the first signs of fluorescence in feces in animals of the control and experimental groups was estimated. Intensive fluorescence of the green label in fluorimetry samples was observed. The greatest increase in fluorescence was observed at the 4th hour of the experiment in the control group, while in the 2nd experimental group the increase lasted until the 5th hour. In the 1st experimental group, elimination of the main amount of green dye did not begin even by the 5th hour of the experiment. The method using fluorescent tags revealed a delay in mixing of feed masses in mice fed glycerol and 1,3 propanediol, which was accompanied by a statistically significant increase in Escherichia coli concentration - by 3 times (p &lt; 0.05). The use of Salkoli Mono BP Dry had no statistically significant effect on E. coli concentrations and gastrointestinal motility.

Comparative analysis of the working bodies of the vibrating mixer of bulk feed

BACKGROUND: The paper is devoted to the preparation of highly homogeneous bulk feed mixtures. It is known that the efficiency of the mixing process increases significantly when vibra-tion is applied, while reducing the time to achieve maximum uniformity of the mixture and reduc-ing the energy costs of mixing. In some cases, vibration can only intensify the main process, and in others it can cause specific vibration effects that are used for mixing.&#x0D; AIMS: Increasing the homogeneity of the mixture due to vibration effects.&#x0D; METHODS: A laboratory-experimental vibrating mixer of continuous bulk feed has been de-veloped for conducting research. Its general structure and principle of operation are considered, the influence of design features of replaceable working bodies on the quality of the mixing pro-cess is analyzed.&#x0D; RESULTS: Comparative analysis has shown that mixing elements with complex vibration con-tact surfaces provide a sufficiently high quality of the resulting mixture, but the mixer perfor-mance is relatively low. To increase productivity while maintaining consistently high quality, flat working bodies with holes in the form of isosceles triangles are proposed. During the studies of their work, a decrease in the uniformity of the resulting mixture was revealed, therefore, it is pro-posed to install concave or curved triangular plates under the holes. This technical solution allows us to obtain the quality of the feed mixture that meets the requirements without reducing produc-tivity.&#x0D; An additional way to intensify the mixing process, regardless of the type of working bodies, is the hinge fastening of the mixing elements. In addition, using a special mechanism, it is possi-ble to change the speed of mass movement inside the vibrating trough and, accordingly, the per-formance of the entire installation as a whole and the mixing intensity.&#x0D; CONCLUSIONS: All types of mixing elements have been successfully tested. The laboratory-experimental vibrating mixer has passed the production test as part of a small-sized feed unit.&#x0D; The article describes the history of the development and creation of the first domestic neutralizers of exhaust gases of internal combustion engines, which began with testing and research of foreign neutralizers. Sequential stages of design, study and testing of domestic converters for gasoline and diesel engines are considered. There are described the following processes: the process of developing methods for testing engines for toxicity and the process of creating estimated indicators and developing normative and technical documents in the field of toxicity of engines and vehicles.

Justification of the impeller speed choice for optimization of the continuous mixing mode in a facility for preparation of liquid feed mixtures

BACKGROUND: In the coming years, most of the main livestock production will be produced on farms under their collective lease, as well as on individual farms, which will ensure intensive development of the industry.&#x0D; AIMS: The paper is devoted to the study of the liquid feed mixtures preparation under different impeller speeds, under different temperatures of the liquid and with further parameters optimization.&#x0D; MATERIALS AND METHODS: The experimental facility for the liquid feed mixtures preparation is a multifunctional technical equipment, capable of performing following 3 functions: dosing of material (the whole milk replacer), liquid supply (the pumping function) and mixture preparation (the mixer function).&#x0D; RESULTS: The study of facilities, based on blade pumps, revealed that the rotational speed n in the range of 1750 to 3000 min-1 is not always effective. Then, the indicators of performance or mixture supply are bigger for these values. Thus, the experiment is carried out based on the synchronism of the rotational speeds of the electric motor and the impeller: n = 750, 1000, 1250, 1500 and 1750 min-1. The application of an asynchronous electric motor implies taking account of slip s being 23%.&#x0D; CONCLUSIONS: The study of the mixing facility at the continuous mixing mode shows that it is not necessary to take the mixing time into account with given design parameters, as the mixture processing occurs instantly, for a very short time intervals Tc = 0.020.006 s. Experimental studies show that the impeller speed under different temperatures of the liquid affects the degree of the mixture homogeneity, while the number of fixed blades is also considered. Thus, in the continuous mixing mode, the degree of homogeneity Ѳ is 85.2% for a speed n = 9501490 min-1, while the water temperature t is 2024 C.

The impacts of physical properties of extruded feed on the digestion kinetics, gastrointestinal emptying and stomach water fluxes of spotted seabass (Lateolabrax maculatus)

This study investigated the effect of extruded feed physical pellet quality (PPQ) on the physiological response of spotted seabass (Lateolabrax maculatus). Two batches of pellets with the same formula but contrasting PPQ were produced by extrusion. The contrast in PPQ was created by applying two levels of water (14% versus 20%) into the feed mixture prior to extrusion. This resulted in a low-water addition treatment (LW) with a short pellet hydration time versus a high-water addition treatment (HW) with a long pellet hydration time. Fish (average weight, 159 g) were fed to satiation twice daily for 48 days. Faeces were collected during the experimental period for digestibility measurements. At the end of the experiment, chyme was collected from the stomach and intestine at 0.5, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16 and 24 h after the last meal during which fish were also fed to satiation. Chyme dry matter, crude protein, and inert marker (Y2O3) content were analysed for the calculation of gastrointestinal evacuation, kinetics of digestion and water fluxes. A significantly larger stomach water influx led to a lower stomach DM content at 2 h postprandial in the LW-pellets compared to the HW-pellets. During the last meal, fish fed LW-pellets consumed more feed and had a higher plasma α-melanocyte stimulating hormone concentration at postprandial 2 h. On a fresh basis, LW-pellets generated a faster stomach digesta evacuation, while on a DM basis stomach emptying was similar for both treatments. Fish fed LW-pellets had a lower feed conversion ratio, a higher protein efficiency ratio, hepatosomatic index and postprandial plasma glucose level than fish fed HW-pellets. Nevertheless, PPQ did not statistically influence on the stomach digestion kinetics, faecal digestibility values and feed intake during the experimental period. Our results show that the PPQ can alter stomach water fluxes and digesta evacuation rate in spotted seabass. Additionally, it is suggested that PPQ, particularly hydration time, can affect fish's feed intake regulation and metabolic responses.

Effect of dietary Alibernet red grape pomace application into Ross 308 broiler chickens diet on amino and fatty acids profile of breast and thigh meat.

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of Alibernet red grape pomace (ARGP) variety Alibernet addition into broiler chickens Ross 308 diet on the essential amino acid (AA) and fatty acid (FA) composition of their breast and thigh meat. At the beginning, 200 one-day Ross 308 broiler chickens of mixed gender were randomly divided into 4 groups (n = 50). The control group (C) did not receive any additional supplementation. The feed of experimental groups was enriched with 1% ARGP per 1kg of feed mixture (FM) (E1), with 2% ARGP per 1kg of FM (E2) and with 3% ARGP per 1kg of FM (E3). The FMs were produced without any antibiotics and coccidiostatics and the fattening period lasted for 42 days. Samples from breast and thigh muscle were obtained and analyzed for the content of AAs and FAs content and results were presented as g 100g-1 of dry matter. Results revealed that AA profile of breast muscle was not significantly affected, with the most present AAs Lys and Leu. In the thigh muscle we observed significant differences in the content of Thr, Val, Met, Cys and His, namely in males. From the results of FAs profile, we can state that ARGP influenced namely monounsaturated oleic acid in breast muscle (without gender difference), which had significantly highest content (p ≤ 0.05) in all experimental groups (E1-36.05, E2-35.60 and E3-36.79g 100g-1) compared with the control group (31.88g 100g-1). Overall, it seems that selected feed supplement did not negatively influence AAs and FAs profile of chicken meat.

Constructing a stable 2D Ti3AlC2 MnAXm cocatalyst-modified gC3N4/CoAl-LDH/Ti3AlC2 heterojunction for efficient dry and bireforming of methane for photocatalytic syngas production

2D titanium aluminium carbide (Ti3AlC2) dispersed with cobalt aluminium layered double hydroxide (CoAl-LDH) and graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) was designed to construct heterojunction with promising charge separation. The performance of the nanotextures was tested for gas flaring (CH4) reduction through photocatalytic dry reforming of methane (DRM) and bireforming of methane (BRM) under visible light irradiation. Coupling Ti3AlC2 with CoAl-LDH/g-C3N4 was found promising to enhance visible light absorption and charge carrier separation. Using ternary CoAl-LDH/g-C3N4/Ti3AlC2 composite and the DRM process, the highest yield rate for CO and H2 of 30.29 and 4.74 µmole g-1 h-1 at selectivity 86.46% and 13.53%, respectively were obtained. This photocatalytic efficiency was 8 and 5-fold higher than pure CoAl-LDH. This improved photocatalytic activity can be attributed to interfacial contact with Z-scheme heterojunction integrated with an exfoliated MAX structure for efficient electron conductivity. The effect of the feed ratio was further investigated, which revealed a direct impact on syngas production due to reactant adsorption competition over the catalyst surface. The higher yield rate of CO and H2 were obtained at a CO2/CH4 feed ratio of 1.0 due to equal opportunity to attach both the molecules to maximize the oxidation and reduction reactions. Likewise, stability analysis revealed excellent composite recyclability with continuous syngas production. Performance comparison with the bireforming process (BRM) revealed that adding H2O to the feed mixture generated more protons, activating the reversed water gas shift reaction (RWGSR), thus reducing the productivity of syngas. This study would provide a green and effective strategy towards gas flaring reduction by utilizing CH4 and CO2 simultaneously and reforming them into energy-efficient renewable fuels, which serves the dual purposes of flaring reduction and utilization.

Substantiation of the Choice of Special Ranges for Photoluminescent Control of the Composition and Nutritional Value of Forages

Promising optical methods for analyzing the nutritional value of the components of the feed mixture for cattle have been studied. The results of the study substantiated the spectral ranges of photoluminescence 380-550 and 450-600 nm, respectively, allowing to determine the mass fractions of silage and compound feed in the mixture, as well as to evaluate the quality of mixing by optical methods.

THE EFFECTS OF DIETARY EUBIOTICS OR INTRAVENOUS AMINO ACID INFUSIONS ON NUTRIENT DIGESTIBILITY, RUMEN FERMENTATION, PERFORMANCE AND BLOOD PARAMETERS OF BUFFALO CALVES UNDER SUBTROPICAL CLIMATIC CONDITIONS

This study was conducted to compare the effects of dietary eubiotics or intravenous amino acid infusions (IVAAI) as two different growth promoters on nutrient digestibility, rumen fermentation, performance, and blood biochemical parameters of buffalo calves in subtropical climatic conditions. Thirty male buffalo calves (284.40 ± 18.45 kg) were randomly distributed into three groups and fed a basal diet (BD) of concentrate feed mixture and roughages. The first group was fed BD and considered as the control, the second group was fed the BD supplemented with eubiotics at 1.0 kg/ton of concentrate, whereas the third group was intravenously infused with amino acid (IVAAI) injection at a dose of 2.0 ml/100 kg body weight. Results showed that the total gain and the average daily gain were improved (P &lt; 0.05) with dietary eubiotics. The digestibility of some nutrients was increased (P &lt; 0.05) with dietary addition of eubiotics. In addition, eubiotics stabilize (P &lt; 0.05) the rumen pH, which reduce the risk of subacute ruminal acidosis but increased (P &lt; 0.05) ruminal NH3-N and total volatile fatty acids. The rectal temperature was decreased (P &lt; 0.05) with eubiotics supplementation. In conclusion, the use of eubiotics induced superior positive effects on the digestibility of nutrients, rumen fermentation, rumen enzymes, rumen protein concentration, growth performance, feed conversion, blood parameters and ameliorated the harmful effects of thermal stress of buffalo calves in comparison with intravenous infusion of amino acids. Key words: eubiotics; amino acids; buffalo calves; nutrient digestibility; rumen fermentation; growth performance

Impact of H2-enriched natural gas on pollutant emissions from domestic condensing boilers: numerical simulations of the combustion chamber

The addition of green hydrogen to the gas mixture feeding domestic boilers may help the ecological transition of the residential sector. However, there are concerns about the combustion process as hydrogen shows power density and reactivity that are much different than those of natural gas. In this work, we perform three-dimensional simulations with detailed kinetics to describe and comprehend the combustion process in a real modern boiler, equipped with a perforated premixed burner (presenting a pattern of small holes and slits), with the purpose also to evaluate the impact of green hydrogen. The flame structure is complex and characterized by the interaction of flames exiting from neighbor holes and slits; these flames may merge and lead to very intense flames, especially at high flow rates. The presence of a flow distributor, upstream of the burner, induces different velocities at the holes and slits, ultimately affecting the morphology, propagation and interactions of the flames. This behavior is observed for all investigated H2 concentrations, i.e., up to 50% by vol. The model is validated against available measurements of carbon monoxide and nitric oxides in flue gases, which both indicate very satisfactory predictions. More specifically, the addition of green H2 has a beneficial effect on both CO and NO emissions. More specifically the CO emissions at the nominal power are observed to diminish from 154 to 18 ppm when shifting from 0 to 50% H2 in the fuel mixture, while NO emissions decrease from 20 to only 5 ppm. This latter reduction is a surprising and encouraging result; the reason is due to the fact that the addition of hydrogen in the fuel mixture leads naturally to more dilute operating conditions in a condensing boiler. We believe that the proposed model represents a valid tool to explore strategies to improve the combustion process with alternative fuels.

Inclusion of Azolla pinnata as an unconventional feed of Zaraibi dairy goats, and effects on milk production and offspring performance.

This study investigated the effects of using sun-dried Azolla (Azolla pinnata) meal (SDAM) protein to replace sunflower meal protein in the diets of Zaraibi goats dams on nutrient digestibility, milk yield, composition, and economics. A total of 15 Zaraibi goats (32.23 ± 0.2 kg) were randomly divided into three equal groups, R1, R2, and R3 which were fed based on average milk production. The basal ration was a concentrated feed mixture containing 0, 10, and 20% SDAM which replaced 0, 25, and 50% of sunflower meal protein in the respective groups. Nutrient digestibility and feeding values were improved with R3 goats, which had the highest level of azolla (20%) R3 versus R2 and R1 goats. The total volatile fatty acid (TVFA) concentration in the in-rumen liquor was elevated by increasing the level of azolla up to 20% in R3 goats. The results revealed significantly higher (P<0.05) mean milk yield in the SDAM groups in comparison to R1 (1184, 1131 and 1034 respectively). The beneficial effects of the tested groups were observed in milk composition, milk fat, milk protein, and non- fats solids. Whereas the milk fat yield was higher in the SDAM group in comparison with the control group (40.84, 37.20, and 33.92). Ration inclusion of SDAM improved economic feed efficiency (relative feed cost and relative daily profit) and had a significant effect on the yield of milk constituents. In general, using up to a level of 20% SDAM in place of sunflower meal for feeding lactating Zaraibi goats improved milk production, milk fat yield, and cost-benefit ratio. This study recommended that, inclusion of sun-dried azolla meal up to 20%, as an unconventional feed for Zaraibi dairy goats and offspring, improved milk production and economically feed efficiency.

Occurrence of zearalenone in dairy farms – A study on the determinants of exposure and risk assessment

The Azorean dairy industry is based on a semi-intensive model. Due to the few storage facilities and the large climatic fluctuations that characterize the Azores, the complete feed mixture (total mixed ration - TMR) is susceptible to the proliferation of a variety of fungi and mycotoxin contamination. Thus, chronic ingestion of these xenobiotics may lead to increased susceptibility to disease, loss of reproductive performance and, in the case of dairy cattle, decreased productivity and quality of milk produced. Since it is impossible to eliminate completely the presence of mycotoxins, it is essential to ensure the implementation of strategies to reduce their concentration in products intended for food and feed, as well as to monitor and control the levels present in food.This study aimed to evaluate the occurrence zearalenone (ZEA) in feed (TMR) in four dairy cattle farms on the Azorean Island of São Miguel and relate it to the occurrence of this mycotoxin in the milk produced, by associating several production and health indicators translated by the monthly milk contrast. To this end, the monthly milk contrast data, the determination of ZEA in the ingested feed and the (individual) milk samples from the four farms included in the study were used. Eighty-three (98.8%) of the milk samples under study had detectable ZEA levels (1.56 ± 1.36 μg/L), higher than reported in previous similar studies. Although ZEA concentration was not significantly associated with any production indicator analyzed (days in milk, age at calving, milk yield, protein content, butyrate content, somatic cell concentration and urea), it was found that the production regime and type of feed management is a major factor in the exposure of animals to high mycotoxin contents.Further studies are recommended to ensure continued monitoring and reduction of the risk associated with exposure of animals and humans to ZEA.