Pelleted Feed Research Articles

Effects of Solid-State Fermented (SSF) Pelleted Feed with Lactobacillus plantarum on Tachysurus fulvidraco: Growth, Digestion, Antioxidant, Immunity, Intestinal Morphology, and Microbiota

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of solid-state fermented commercial pelleted feed with Lactobacillus plantarum on growth performance, digestive physiology, antioxidant, and immune capacity, as well as morphology and microbiota in intestinal of Tachysurus fulvidraco. A total of 420 fish (49.96 ± 7.10 g) were randomly allocated to twelve 300 L buckets for a 60 d farming trial. The diets of three treatments were established: the untreated commercial diet (UCD), the commercial diet mixed with fermented liquid (MFLD), and the solid-state fermented commercial diet (SSFD). The results indicated that SSFD treatment had a significant positive effect on the growth performance of T. fulvidraco, with an increase of 15.69% to 16.57% (p < 0.05) compared with UCD and MFLD treatments. MFLD and SSFD treatments also showed higher total anti-oxygen capacity, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase activities in the intestine significantly compared with UCD treatment (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the activities of alkaline phosphatase and lysozyme activities both in the liver and intestine were significantly higher in MFLD and SSFD treatments than in UCD treatment (p < 0.05). The villus height in the midintestine was also greater in MFLD and SSFD treatments compared with UCD treatment (p < 0.05). Regarding the intestinal microbiota, the dominant bacteria in UCD treatment was Cetobacterium, with the highest abundance in whole intestinal segments. However, in MFLD and SSFD treatments, the abundance of Cetobacterium in the foreintestine significantly decreased (p < 0.05). In conclusion, this study elucidates that solid-state fermentation feed may not only improve the digestive capacity, antioxidant ability, immune function, and intestinal morphology of T. fulvidraco to enhance growth performance but also influence intestinal microbial composition. These findings provide beneficial proof for developing fermented feed of T. fulvidraco.

Calibration and experimental verification of discrete element parameters for modelling feed pelleting

The discrete element method (DEM) has demonstrated significant advantages in modelling feed-tool interaction. The selection of an appropriate contact model and its parameter calibration is crucial for developing effective DEM simulations. A DEM model of feed powder was developed to forecast powder compression and densification in feed pelleting by using the Edinburgh elasto-plastic adhesion contact model. Firstly, a calibration method of DEM parameters based on the Plackett–Burman (PB) and the central composite (CC) test was proposed to enhance calibration efficiency. Both experimentally and through DEM simulation of the uniaxial confined compression experiments, powder repose angle experiments, and powder static friction angle experiments were used to calibrate the DEM parameters. Extract the DEM parameters that have a significant impact on feed pelleting through PB testing. Then, the effects of these parameters on response were analysed using CC testing, and ascertain their optimal values. Finally, the single-hole open compression experiment and feed pelleting experiment were used to evaluate the accuracy of the parameters. The results show that the average relative error between the predicted ultimate compressive force in the open compression experiment and the measured value is 8.16%, and that of the torque of the pellet mill is 2.10%. Thus, it was shown that the modelling and calibration method can effectively predict the compression and densification of powder in the feed pelleting.

Analisis Statistika Tingkat Kepuasan Pengguna Sistem Monitoring Mesin Cetak Pelet Pakan Ternak Berbasis IoT

The aim of this research is to analyze the processing of user satisfaction data on the IoT-based feed pellet machine monitoring system using the Blynk application among visitors of the IT Fest at the School of Vocational IPB University, majoring in Software Engineering Technology (TPL), Computer Engineering Technology, and Industrial Management from batches 57, 59, and 60. The research method employed in this study is quantitative research using descriptive statistics. The sampling technique utilized is a survey method, and the instrument for data collection is a questionnaire. Subsequently, the analysis of all data is conducted by performing testing stages using measures of central tendency, including mean, median, and mode. Using the Likert scale, conclusions can be drawn from the respondents' answers.

Molecular Characterisation of Gut Bacteria in Wista Rat After Green Tea Consumption

Green tea can influence the gut bacteria by either stimulating or hindering the growth of specific species. This experimental study was carried out in Rivers State, Nigeria to molecularly characterize gut bacteria in Wista rats after green tea consumption. Twenty-five (25) rats divided into five groups were used; each group had five (5) rats having an average weight range of 70g – 130g. After acclimatization of 2 weeks, groups (2, 3, 4 & 5) were feed with green tea extract based on standard method using oral gavage with rat feed pellet and water for seven (7) days and fourteen (14) days respectively based on their body weights and group 1 (control) was fed with rat feed pellet and water only for same duration and their weights recorded. Stool samples were collected aseptically by pulling from each group into sterile stool sample bottles and sent to the laboratory for immediate analysis. Conventional microbiological methods of culturing and molecular methods were utilized for identification of isolates, total heterotrophic plate count and antibiotic susceptibility were also done. The data from this study were analysed using SPSS version 23, to survey difference in gut bacterial count of wista rats after fed with green tea, rat weight across the study groups, and the values were expressed as mean ± SD at a 5% alpha level. The study reported a statistical difference in bacterial plate count at (P≤0.05) in Groups 2, 3, 4, and 5 after 14 Days of Acclimatization, after 7 days of Treatment and after further 14 Days of Treatment. Group 1 showed no statistical significance at P=0.212. Furthermore, there was significant difference in weight comparison at (P≤0.05) in rats contained in all groups after 7 days and after further 14 days of treatment, rats in group 1 showed weight gain. There was weight loss in all the treatment groups (2 ,3, 4, and 5). Antibiotic-resistant assay pattern of the isolates showed multiple drugs resistance to all the antibiotics used with Bacillus and Enterobacter being the most resistant isolates. The molecular characterization and identification of the isolates revealed close relatedness to Staphylococcus arlettae, Enterobacter cloacae, Enterobacter cancerogenus, Acinetobacter nosocomialis, Comamonas testosterone, Klebsiella veriicola, Bacillus thuringiensis, Bacillus pumilus and Bacillus cereus, it showed that the molecular technique proved to be more specific and accurate than the convectional technique in the identification and characterization of the isolates. Also, the gut bacterial count of the rats that were treated with the tea were significantly raised indicating that the tea has the potential to influence the abundance and diversity of gut bacteria. As seen in this study, molecular characterisation of gut bacteria identifies bacteria upto their specie level and they are influenced by diet.

HAEMATOLOGY OF SALINE TILAPIA (Oreochromis niloticus) FED WITH MORINGA LEAF POWDER ENRICHED PELLETS

Moringa leaves (Moringa oleifera) contain flavonoids and saponins that can help improve fish health. Fish health and immune conditions can be predicted based on fish haematology. The study aimed to determine the effects of powder addition of Moringa leaves in fish feed pellets on the haematological disorders of saline tilapia. It was carried out from July to August 2022. Moringa leaf flour was mixed well with pelleted feed, and the dose of Moringa leaf flour was as follows: 0 (Control, without the addition of Moringa leaves), P1 (10 g/kg), P2 (15 g/kg), and P3 (20 g/kg). Fish were stored in round plastic containers (25 L, equipped with an aerator and circulation pump) for 42 days, 15 fish/container. During the study, fish were fed three times/day at satiation. Sampling was carried out twice, namely before treatment and at the end of the experiment (day 42). The results showed that adding Moringa leaf flour to fish feed pellets affected fish haematology. Fish fed with turmeric-enriched pellets showed a higher percentage of lymphocytes, increasing the fish's immunity. The best treatment was P2, which showed 81.66% lymphocytes, 7.11% monocytes, 8.66% neutrophils, and 2.55% thrombocytes. Data obtained showed that fish fed with Moringa leaf pellets had better haematological conditions than fish not fed with Moringa leaf pellets

Study on the Stability of Probiotic (Spirulina fusiformis) Incorporated Fish Diets

Aquaculture is one of the fastest-growing food production sectors in the world. The use of probiotics might be a good option to reduce the risk of disease and enhance fish productivity. Probiotics thus are opening a new era in the health management strategy for aquatic species including finfish and shellfish. Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that help in maintaining the well-being of the host animal. The development of non-antibiotic and environment-friendly probiotic feeds is one of the key factors for health management in aquaculture. The benefits of probiotic supplements include improved feed value, enzymatic contribution to digestion, and inhibition of pathogenic microorganisms. Feed stability is of paramount importance in the manufacture of aquaculture diets. The water stability of the feed pellet depends on the individual ingredients that bind together. Hence the study was designed to investigate the stability of probiotic feeds in water. Probiotic Spirulina added feed samples were soaked in a glass beaker containing water and allowed to remain for time intervals ranging from 10 to 60 minutes to study the stability of feed. The results showed that the control feed pellet (40.00 + 1.00) was the least stable among the types of experimental feed (SF2 and SF3) in 60 minutes of immersion. The increased level of stability (71.66 %) was recorded in (2 & 3% inclusion) feed type.

Aquaculture Development in Nigeria: The Second Biggest Aquaculture Producer in Africa

Today, fish farming has become one of the fastest-growing farming businesses, turning Nigeria into the second biggest aquaculture producer in Africa. Also, Nigeria is the leading country in the production of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) and African bonytongue (Heterotis niloticus). The great quantity of land, inland water surface, and coastland, which are suitable for fish farming, have placed Nigeria at a very advantaged position to develop aquaculture further. Here, the development of brackish and marine aquaculture represents a promising field for future expansion. An adaptation of aquaculture development has to reduce the impact of climate change as outlined. Furthermore, disease management has to be urgently improved. Among others, the availability of commercial feed pellets is a bottleneck that has to be overcome. Unfortunately, Nigeria is far from self-sufficiency in its fish supply, with a deficit of about 2.5 million tons being imported, but national initiatives envision an expansion in the future to increase the supply of the population with high-quality protein and the prevention of malnutrition. This study identifies challenges and opportunities of the aquaculture subsector and tries to give some recommendations for future development, highlighting potential governmental interventions and support.

Holothurians play an important role in mitigating the impacts of aquaculture on sediment conditions

As deposit feeders contribute to bioremediation and nutrient recycling in sediments, positively impacting water and sediment quality, holothurians are candidate organisms for multitrophic aquaculture. This study aimed to investigate the potential of Holothuria poli to reduce the environmental footprint of fish farms through a benthocosm experiment. The experimental setup included four benthocosms with holothurians(H+) and four without (H-). The 58-day experiment included two phases: constant organic enrichment and recovery. In order to simulate the organic enrichment sediment conditions under a typical fish farm, a mixture of fish feces and fish feed pellets was added. Results showed that holothurians effectively reduced organic matter and H2S and increased redox, RPD depth and sediment oxygenation, thereby preventing anoxic conditions. Also, during the recovery phase, holothurians facilitated rapid sediment recovery, while the sediments without holothurians remained organic-enriched until the end of the experiment. The study emphasizes the significance of holothurians in mitigating the impacts of aquaculture on sediment conditions and so promoting environmental sustainability.

Concentration of Rumen Parameters in Vitro Complete Pellet Feed Contains Different Alternative Energy Source Materials

This research aims to determine the effect of using alternative energy sources in the form of banana tubers and rejected cassava in complete pellet feed with different levels on VFA, NH3 and pH levels in vitro. The method used in this research is an experimental method using a completely randomized design (CRD) with 4 treatments and 4 replications, the treatments in this research are: R0; complete feed pellets 40% banana weevil + 60% concentrate, R1; complete feed pellets 60% banana weevil + 40% concentrate, , R2; pelleted complete feed (40% cassava + 60% concentrate, R3; pelleted complete feed 60% cassava + 40% concentrate. The data obtained were analyzed using analysis of variance. Based on the results of statistical analysis, it showed that the treatment had a significant effect (p<0, 05) on VFA, NH3 and rumen fluid pH levels. The conclusion of this research is that based on the discussion above, it is concluded that the use of different energy source materials in complete pelleted feed is able to increase VFA production and NH3 concentration and rumen fluid pH in vitro to the best level. 40%.

JUSTIFICATION OF THE CONSTRUCTIVE-TECHNOLOGICAL DESIGN OF THE FEED PELLETIZER

Increasing production and improving the quality of protein feeds, as one of the most important tasks in increasing the productivity of animals and poultry, can be achieved through the improvement of the meal processing technology, which is currently limited to grinding with subsequent incorporation into compound feeds. The advanced processing technology of meal developed at the Institute of Oil Crops, through the introduction of an additional mechanical fractionation operation of the ground meal into protein and husk fractions, allows for the extraction of more than 40 % of protein powder with a protein content of not less than 38 %. In addition to avoiding rapid oxidation, thanks to the granulation process, the storage volumes of pellets in warehouses will be reduced, and transportation costs will be minimized. Therefore, addressing the mechanization of meal processing through the improvement of technology and equipment for separating it into protein granules and husk fuel briquettes is quite relevant. The purpose – experimentally justify the constructive-technological parameters of the feed pelletizer. A screw installation design for manufacturing feed pellets from the protein fraction of oilseed meal has been developed as part of the technological line. The optimal design and technological parameters of the pellet manufacturing installation are a material feeding rate of q = 35.7 kg/h, a rotational speed of the working element of n = 50.5 rpm, and a moisture content of the protein fraction of W = 28.9%. In this case, the power of the installation is P = 973 W, and its productivity is Q = 48 kg/h.

Modeling the First Hydrogen Direct Reduction Pilot Reactor for Ironmaking in the USA Using Finite Element Analysis and Its Validation Using Pilot Plant Trial Data

Direct reduction of hematite pellets with hydrogen (H2) was used to produce directly reduced iron (DRI) in a pilot scale reactor at a pellet feed rate of 21.4 kg/h. At a steady state, operational parameters of the pilot plant (gas recycling rate and inlet temperature) along with key reactor output parameters, the pellet metallization, and the internal temperature profile of the reactor were reported for two scenarios with high recycle and low recycle rate of H2. Scenario 1, with a high recycle rate of 400 L/min H2 along with external heating of 870 °C, gave an average metallization of 91.8%, while Scenario 2, with low recycle rate of 100 L/min H2 and external heating of 850 °C gave a metallization of 67.8% due to the higher moles of H2 available for reduction and the external energy required for the endothermic reduction reaction in Scenario 1 as compared with Scenario 2. Finite element analysis was used to build a model of the shaft reactor, which was validated against the metallization and internal temperature profile data. The average metallization values predicted by the model were very close to the metallization values obtained from the pilot plant samples, with 90.9% average metallization for Scenario 1 and 65.6% average metallization for Scenario 2. The internal temperature profiles in the lower region of the reactor obtained from the model were very close to these pilot plant data, with a maximum difference of 52.7 °C and 67.6 °C for Scenarios 1 and 2, respectively. The pilot plant reactor model was used extensively in the commissioning of the pilot plant and to predict the startup outcomes for a given set of operating parameters.

PENINGKATAN PRODUKSI UNGGAS MELALUI MANAJEMEN PERKANDANGAN, KESEHATAN TERNAK, DAN MANAJEMEN PENETASAN YANG BAIK

Animal husbandry and agriculture are vital sectors of the community's economy that can run in synergy and support each other. Currently, independent livestock is a form of community effort that can survive global competition and contribute to food security, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there is a problem faced by farmers or breeders is that they have not been able to process existing vegetable waste and manage farms according to maintenance standards, so that the livestock population tends not to grow rapidly. The form of the solution that is offered is through a comprehensive management improvement from tillers to livestock products. Activities that have been carried out are implementing housing management through improving livestock sheds, implementing biosecurity practices, and handling poultry health, fulfilling livestock nutrition, making pellets using machines, as well as introducing technology for making pellet feed based on vegetable waste from farmers, and improving reproduction through crossing and Automatic Hatching Machine. The results of this activity are the improvement of livestock health, the production of vegetable waste-based poultry pellets to reduce feed costs and can be stored for a long time, and an increase in hatchability of more than 80%. The impact of the results of community service activities is an increase in livestock populations and the creation of a healthy veterinary environment.

Glycated bovine serum albumin for use in feeding trials with animal models - In vitro methodology and characterization of a glycated substrate for modifying feed pellets.

This study investigated different methods to produce Nε-carboxymethyl-lysine (CML)-enriched bovine serum albumin (BSA) as alternatives to the classical approach using glyoxylic acid (GA) and sodium cyanoborohydride (NaBH3CN) which results in toxic hydrogen cyanide (HCN). The reaction of GA (6mmol/L) and NaBH3CN (21mmol/L) to produce CML remained the most effective with CML yields of 24-35%, followed by 13-24% using 300mmol/L glyoxal (GO). GA promoted specific modification of lysine to CML, and fewer structural modifications of the BSA molecule compared with GO, as evidenced by fluorescence and proteomic analyses. GO promoted greater arginine modification compared with GA (76 vs 23%). Despite structural changes to BSA with GO, murine fecal clearance of CML was similar to literature values. Hence, BSA glycation with 300mmol/L glyoxal is a suitable alternative to GA and NaBH3CN for generating CML-enriched protein free of HCN, but a CML-only fortification model remains to be described.

Effect of speed and die holes diameter in the machine on feed pellets quality

The study aimed to effect of speed and die holes diameter in the machine on feed pellets quality. In this study was measured pellet direct measurement (%), pellet lengths (%), pellet durability (%) and pellet water absorption (%). Three die speeds 280, 300, and 320 rpm, three diameters of die holes in the machine 3, 4, and 5 mm, have been used. The results showed that increasing the pellet die speeds from 280 to 300 then to 320 rpm led to a significant decrease in direct measurement, pellet durability, and pellet water absorption was increased, whereas it did not significantly affect the pellet lengths. Increasing the die holes diameter from 3 to 4 then to 5 mm led to a significant decrease in the pellet direct measurement, pellet lengths, pellet durability, and increased pellet water absorption. Pellet die speeds of 280 rpm and the die holes diameter of 3 mm recorded the highest direct measurement 95.61%, pellet lengths 86.30%, pellet durability 93.45%, and less pellet water absorption 15.74%. The minimum die speed and die holes diameter gave the highest pellet direct measurement, pellet lengths, pellet durability and lowest pellet water absorption with all the considered indicators.

Pembelajaran Pembuatan Pakan Mandiri dan Penstimulan Moulting Udang bagi Pembudidaya Tradisional

Shrimp farming in Indonesia is dominated by traditional cultivation methods, therefore they do not have sufficient financial access to obtain expensive commercial feed. The Program for Application of Appropriate Technology (PTTG) aims to provide lessons on making independent feed and stimulating shrimp moulting for traditional farmers in Ma'rang District, Pangkajene and Islands Districts using local raw materials. The Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) approach model, which emphasizes the active involvement of the community in all activities, is used in this program. The knowledge and skills transferred from this study include the concept of artificial feed and moulting, preparation of raw materials, preparation of feed composition, mixing and weighing of raw materials, and pelleting and supplementation of feed. The results of the pre-test showed that the level of knowledge and skills regarding self-sufficient feed production and the manufacture of moulting-stimulating ingredients were generally in the poor category. However, after the learning activities, the post-test results showed that the level of knowledge and skills increased significantly and was generally in the good category. In general, partners believe that learning items are technically easy to apply, economically inexpensive, and ecologically can reduce agricultural and fishery waste. The lessons learned by traditional cultivators through this program can be utilized optimally in increasing production.

Effects of the interaction between tank color and type of feed pellets on biological and physiological indicators in red hybrid tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus × Oreochromis niloticus) juveniles reared in brackish water

AbstractThe present work aimed to investigate the impacts of tank color (transparent, light blue, and red), feed pellet types (floating and sinking), and their interaction on the performance and welfare of red hybrid tilapia juveniles with an initial average weight of 19.59 g for a 50 day trial period following a 3 × 2 factorial design. Fish were cultured randomly at a stoking rate of 10 juveniles/100‐L tank. Fish were fed 6 days per week at a rate of 4% biomass twice daily. Three replicates were performed for each measurement. A two‐way analysis of variance showed that using tanks of different colors (transparent, light blue, and red) has no impact on the growth, feed efficacy, survival rate, and blood composition (except for red blood cells, hematocrit, and triglycerides) of tilapia. Also, pellet types (floating and sinking) showed no significant alterations for the above variables except for glucose and hematocrit levels. Interestingly, the interaction between tank color and pellet type exhibited significant impacts on growth parameters, feed utilization, blood variables, and intestinal enzymes of red hybrid tilapia. Moreover, fish reared in transparent or light blue tanks and fed with floating diets performed the best for all evaluated parameters. Additionally, sinking pellets had better effects when combined with red (dark)‐colored tanks.

Physical Quality of Complete Pellets Feed Containing Peanut Waste (Arachis hypogaea) and Its Effects on Rabbit Growth Performance

This study aimed to evaluate the physical quality of complete pellets with the addition of peanut waste and the effect of its administration on the performance of rabbits. A total of 20 local male rabbits aged 12 weeks with an average body weight of 1335.60 ± 280.53 g are divided into five groups based on body weight, and then used in this study which is performed in randomized block design (RBD). The rabbits are fed on the commercial pellets as a control diet (P0) and feed pellets containing peanut waste at the level of 5% (P1), peanut waste 10% (P2), and peanut waste 15% (P3). The results show that the physical quality of the pellets was not significantly different (p>0.05) in all treatments. Feeding complete pellets with the addition of peanut waste rabbits performances show no significant difference in performance (p>0.05) in all treatments. In conclusion, complete pellets with the addition of peanut was can resemble the physical quality of commercial pellets (control), maintain performances

Essential Trace and Toxic Element Content in Lacaune Sheep Milk during Lactation.

The aim of this study was to investigate the concentrations of essential trace and toxic elements in the milk of Lacaune sheep during lactation in intensive rearing systems. This research was conducted with 30 Lacaune sheep that were monitored in the early (60 days of lactation), medium (120 days of lactation), and late (180 days of lactation) stages of lactation. The sheep were fed a pelleted feed mixture (1 kg/day), a cereal mixture (600 g/day), and alfalfa hay (ad libitum). The essential (Fe, Zn, Cu, Co, Mn, Mo, Se, Cr, and Ni) and toxic element (heavy metals: Cd, Pb, As, and Hg) concentrations in the feed and milk were determined using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer. Significant variations in the main essential trace and toxic elements, except for the Mo, Se, Ni, As, and Hg concentrations, were found in the milk of Lacaune sheep during lactation. As lactation progressed, in the late stage of lactation, significantly higher concentrations of Co, Mn, Mo, Cr, and Pb were found, while Zn and Cu in the milk of Lacaune sheep decreased significantly (4.15 and 0.21 mg/kg) compared to their concentrations in the early stage of lactation (5.66 and 0.43 mg/kg). Significantly lower concentrations of Fe and higher concentrations of Cd were found in the medium stage (0.23 mg/kg and 1.08 µg/kg) of lactation compared to both the early and late stages of lactation. An analysis of the correlation coefficients between the essential trace and toxic elements in Lacaune sheep milk during lactation determined a significantly positive correlation between Fe:Cr, Fe:Mn, Fe:Co, Fe:Se, Zn:Ni, Zn:Se, Cr:Mn, Cr:Co, Cr:Se, Cr:Mo, Mn:Co, Mn:Pb, Co:Ni, Co:Se, Ni:Se, Se:Mo, Se:Pb, and Cd:Pb. A significantly negative correlation was also found between Cu:Mn, Zn:Mo, Cg:Hg, and Hg:Pb. Based on the obtained results, it is recommended that the influence of the stage of lactation, as well as the breed of sheep, should be included when designing experiments. In general, sheep milk is rich in essential trace elements, but it also contains a very low content of toxic elements, which provides justification for increasing the breeding of Lacaune sheep and indicates the convenience of consuming their milk without risking the consumer's health.

Actions Of Fresh Red Palm And Cow Fat Blend Oil On The Hemogram Status Of Treated Wistar Rats

Background: Emerging evidence suggests that blend oil could be more beneficial to health than the individual use of the oils. The red palm and cow fat oil are local dietary cooking oils commonly consumed as blend oil in Nigeria. Aim and Objective: The present study was conducted to assess the effect of the consumption of fresh red palm and cow fat blend oil on the hematological profile of treated wistar rats. Materials and Methods: A total of 60 rats weighing 150-250g were randomly divided into groups of 15 rats each. Group A served as normal control and were fed with pelleted growers feed. Group B were fed with pelleted feed mixed with 2ml/kg b.wt of red palm oil by oral gavage. Group C were fed with pelleted growers feed mixed with 2ml/kg b.wt of cow fat oil while Group D were fed with pelleted growers feed mixed with 2ml/kg b.wt of a blend of red palm oil and cow fat oil (1:1) by oral gavage. Animals were sacrificed after 28 days by euthanasia using chloroform. Three (3mls) of blood were collected by cardiac puncture into ethylene diamine tetra cetic acid container for the estimation of the hematological profile using automated cell counter (Coulter Electronics, Luton, Bedfordshire, UK). Data was analyzed with one-way analysis of variance in the statistical package for social science version 22(IBM Incorporated, Armok, NY). Results were presented as mean + standard deviation from the mean with p<0.05 considered significant. Results: There was a significant decrease in the white blood cell count (p = 0.001) of the rats treated with cow fat oil and those treated with a blend of red palm oil and cow fat oil compared to the normal rats and those treated with red palm oil. Similar result was recorded for the red blood cell count, hemoglobin concentration and packed cell volume (p=0.024, 0.033 and 0.019 respectively) for the rats treated with cow fat oil compared to those treated with red palm oil or a blend of red palm oil and cow fat oil as well as the normal rats. Conclusion: The consumption of cow fat oil may have a deleterious effect on the hematological profile of treated rats. This study therefore recommends the consumption of red palm oil instead of the blend of cow fat oil and red palm oil or cow fat oil alone which is a common practice in our daily diets.

Levamisole incorporation in fish feed – Ensuring the medication dose and avoidance of leaching into the water

Levamisole, an anthelmintic and immunostimulant drug, has been studied as a promising alternative for aquaculture use. While oral administration through feeding is the main route of administration in fish farming, no studies evaluating methods of levamisole incorporation into the feed have been reported so far. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate potential procedures for levamisole incorporation in extruded fish feed using ethyl cellulose, gelatin, or vegetable oil, to avoid drug leaching to the water during the animal’s medication. A suitable LC-MS/MS method was optimized (full factorial design), validated, and applied to evaluate the efficiency of the process, the homogeneity of the drug concentration, and the leaching rate. The method has been demonstrated to be selective, precise (RSD < 4.9%), accurate (recovery > 98.4%), and linear (r > 0.99, 125–750 mg kg−1). The incorporation procedures using the three coating agents showed high incorporation efficiency (70%) and a homogeneous drug concentration among the extruded feed pellets. A low levamisole leaching rate was verified in the feed prepared using the ethyl cellulose coating procedure (4.3% after 15 min of immersion in the water). On the other hand, fish feed coated with gelatin and oil resulted in a high leaching rate (30–35% after 15 min). Thus, this study shows that coating ethyl cellulose may be a promising procedure for levamisole incorporation in fish feed and with the potential to enhance its use in animal production while reducing environmental contamination.