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The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of increasing Rice Bran (RB) levels on sugarcane fermentative losses, nutrient recovery, chemical composition, in vitro degradation, and aerobic stability. Thirty-two experimental silos (PVC tubes with an internal diameter of 28 cm and a height of 25 cm) were used in a randomised block design to evaluate the following increasing levels of rice brain: 0 (CON), 33.3, 66.7, and 100 g of RB per kg of sugarcane silage (as-fed basis). Statistical analyses were performed using PROC MIXED, polynomial regression, and α = 0.05. The addition of RB linearly increased silage pH and soluble solids (BRIX). RB quadratically affected fermentation losses and did not affect silage dry matter (DM) recovery. Intermediary RB levels reduced fermentation losses. Moreover, RB linearly increased silage DM, crude protein, and non-fibre carbohydrates, whereas it decreased silage's organic matter and fibre content. Furthermore, RB linearly increased silage DM degradation and aerobic stability, besides increased silage pH after aerobic exposure. Intermediate levels (33.3–66.7 g/kg) of RB reduced fermentation losses and increasing RB level positively affects silage composition, in vitro degradation, and aerobic stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants' physiology changes through the day because photoassimilates can increase water-soluble carbohydrate concentration in the afternoon compared to the morning. This study evaluated the harvest time effect on whole-plant corn silage morphological composition, particle size, fermentation profile, chemical composition, in vitro degradation, and estimated milk yield. A two-year agronomic assay was performed in a completely random design, and one experimental silo was produced by each parcel (n = 16). The afternoon harvest increased (P < 0.01) dry matter content compared to the morning harvest. Harvest time did not affect (P = 0.32) corn grain, stalk, leaf proportion, and silage particle size. However, the morning harvest increased dry matter recovery (P = 0.01) and had no effect (P = 0.10) on silage pH and concentrations of lactic and acetic acid compared to the afternoon harvest. In addition, afternoon harvest instead of morning harvest increased (P = 0.05) silage starch, water-soluble carbohydrates, acid detergent lignin, and ether extract content and dry matter in vitro degradation. Controversially, treatments showed no effect (P = 0.14) on silage energy concentration, estimated energy content, and milk yield. Thus, the morning harvest produces more silage dry matter, but the afternoon harvest improves corn silage's nutritional value with no impact on estimated milk yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Wet distiller's grains (WDG) are rich in crude protein, yet challenging to preserve. Nevertheless, incorporating WDG into total mixed ration (TMR) silage holds promise for enhancing fermentation quality. This study investigated the effects of varying WDG proportions on nitrogen composition, fermentation quality, and microorganisms in TMR silage. Methods: Three TMR formulations were prepared: (1) 0% WDG (T0), (2) 15% WDG (T15), and (3) 30% WDG (T30) were ensiled for 7, 15, 30 and 60 days. Results: After 7 days of ensiling, butyric acid was detected in T0 and T15 groups, while T30 exhibited significantly lower levels (p < 0.05). Both T15 and T30 treatments led to improved V-scores of TMR silage. Non-protein nitrogen (NPN) production was slower in T30, with significant increases observed in NPN levels for T0 and T15 after 30 days (p < 0.05). However, the abundance of Clostridium was extremely low in the present study. Protein degradation and and butyric acid production may be attributed to Weissella. Conclusion: The fermentation quality of TMR silage is always decreasing during storage, so its storage time should be minimized. Incorporating 30% WDG reduced abundance of Weissella, resulting in less protein degradation and better fermentation quality in TMR silage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document discusses the process of ensiling, which is a method for preserving feed, particularly focusing on silage preparation, processing, and efficient utilization. Various studies explore different aspects of ensilage, such as the use of different crops, additives, and techniques to improve fermentation quality and microbial communities. The research aims to enhance the understanding of ensilage practices and contribute to advancements in animal feed production. The studies highlight the importance of utilizing resources effectively to address challenges in the agricultural industry. [Extracted from the article]

ABSTRACT Increasing droughts adversely affect grasslands, diminishing the availability and quality of forages for ruminants. We have recently shown that mixed ensiling of drought‐impaired grass (DIG) with sugar beet pulp (SBP) improved the conservation and feed value of silage. The application of silage additives may further improve the ruminal degradability, which may thereby shape the fermentation and microbiome in the rumen when those silages are tested as part of dairy diets. Therefore, we performed a long‐term in vitro nutritional evaluation of diets containing 50% (DM basis) of mixed silages from DIG and SBP, ensiled either with no additive (T_CON) or with anaerobic fungi culture supernatant (25% in DM; T_AF), mixed ruminal fluid (10% in DM; T_RF) or lactic acid bacteria (1% in FM; T_LAB). The data showed a high degradability of all diets (e.g., > 70% for organic matter), though without differences in nutrient degradabilities among treatments (p > 0.05). Fermentation characteristics, such as ruminal pH, short‐chain fatty acid profile, and gas production were only marginally affected by the treatments. Isobutyric acid proportion was higher in T_CON than in T_AF (p = 0.01), whereas isovaleric acid proportion was lower in T_LAB than in T_RF (p = 0.01). The analysis of the bacterial community revealed similar diversity and structure across all treatments in both the liquid and solid fraction. Noteworthy, Lactobacillus was among the predominant genera in the liquid fraction, which may have derived from the mixed silages. In conclusion, mixed silages from DIG and SBP as part of a 50% concentrate diet showed high ruminal degradability, but no beneficial impact by the tested silage additives was observed. Hence, under these conditions, their application appears not justified. Our results warrant further in vivo verification, whereby it would be of interest to determine the impact of the applied silage additives in forage‐based diets (e.g., > 50% silage in diet DM) in future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-destructive detection of maize silage quality is essential. The aim is to propose a fast and non-destructive silage pH detection method based on a colorimetric sensor array (CSA). Extended color components, a novel sensitive dye screening method, and a feature screening method were integrated and applied to enhance pH detection. Fifty color components were constructed from five color spaces and used to extract information about the response of CSA to silage. Forward and backward stepwise selection and support vector regression (SVR) were combined to create a sensitive dye screening method, which was used to determine the optimal sensitive dye. The variable combination population analysis–iteratively retains informative variables algorithm was iterated to optimize effective features. Consequently, six hundred variables were extracted from the twelve dyes, which were able to comprehensively and finely characterize the CSA response. Four sensitive dyes were screened out from the twelve dyes, which were sensitive to silage volatile compounds and accurately reflected the odor changes. Twenty-eight effective features were preferred, based on which the SVR model had R p 2 , RMSEP and RPD scores of 0.9533, 0.4186, and 4.4186, respectively; the pH prediction performance was substantially improved. This study provides technical support for the scientific evaluation of silage quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the impact of different corn silage preparation methods, namely the traditional and Shredlage methods, on digestibility and biogas yield in anaerobic digestion and its nutritional value—the first complex study of its kind. Key parameters of both silage types were analyzed, including chemical composition, fiber content, and elemental makeup. Methane and biogas production were assessed under standardized fermentation conditions. The results showed that the Shredlage method, characterized by more intensive chopping, led to higher biogas and methane yields per unit of organic dry matter compared to traditional silage. This improvement is attributed to enhanced digestibility due to the lower content of neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), and crude fiber in Shredlage. An elemental analysis revealed slight differences in carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N) ratios, with both silages showing values suitable for efficient fermentation. Despite minor variations in mineral content, Shredlage demonstrated greater efficiency in biogas production, particularly for rapid fermentation processes. The findings underscore the importance of silage preparation techniques in optimizing biogas yield and suggest Shredlage as a superior option for enhancing energy recovery in biogas plants. Future work should explore the economic trade-offs and scalability of these methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to investigate the effects of different proportions and fermentation time on the fermentation quality and nutritional value of mixed silage of soybean hull and wheat straw. In this study, soybean hulls and wheat straw were used as raw materials, and mixed silage with fresh weight ratio of 9.0∶ 1.0 (group A), 8.5∶1.5 (group B), 8.0∶2.0 (group C) and 7.5∶2.5 (group D). Sensory evaluation, pH, NH3-N and nutrient composition analysis of fermentation quality were carried out at 0, 30, 60 and 90 d of silage, respectively. At 0-30 d of silage, with the increase of the proportion of wheat straw, the content of dry matter (DM) and ADL of mixed silage showed an increasing trend, the comprehensive score of sensory evaluation and the content of crude protein (CP) showed a decreasing trend, and the content of pH, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) of mixed silage showed a decreasing and then increasing trend. With the prolongation of fermentation time, the comprehensive score of sensory evaluation, pH, DM, Ash showed a decreasing trend, NDF, ADF, ADL showed a trend of increasing and then decreasing, and the content of CP showed a trend of decreasing and then increasing. The feeding value of mixed silage in group B was better than that in groups A, C and D. In summary, when the mixed silage of soybean shell and wheat straw was ensiled, the suitable ratio was 8.5∶1.5, and the fermentation time was 30 d. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. Improving the digestibility and utilization of feedstuffs through processing methods may result in improved production and efficiency of dairy cattle. Our objective was to determine the effect of an intensive mechanical processing technique applied to wilted alfalfa before ensiling on dairy cow performance when fed as part of a TMR. Thirty-six mid-lactation Holstein dairy cows (primiparous and multiparous) were fed diets of similar composition (28.5% alfalfa haylage, 31.2% corn silage and 40.3% concentrates) that differed by pre-ensiling processing technique of alfalfa silage over a 6-wk experimental period in a randomized complete block design. Treatments were alfalfa either conventionally chopped (CON) or mechanically processed (MPR). Neither BW, change in BW, BCS, nor change in BCS differed between diets. Apparent DM, NDF, ADF, and CP digestibility were greater in MPR compared with CON. The DMI was lesser in MPR compared with CON during wk 5. Furthermore, forage NDF intake was lesser in MPR compared with CON during wk 5. Milk yield did not differ between MPR and CON, but milk fat yield and content were higher in MPR compared with CON. Consequently, 4% FCM and ECM were 1.5 kg/d greater in MPR compared with CON. Gross feed efficiency (ECM/DMI) was greater in MPR compared with CON during wk 5 and 6. Our results suggest that feeding a mechanically processed alfalfa silage enhanced fiber digestibility and subsequently improved dairy cattle gross feed efficiency in mid-lactation dairy cattle by the end of the experimental period. Further research is needed to elucidate physiological responses and practicality of implementing this processing method in a typical production setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ingestion of cotyledons or seeds of cocklebur (Xanthium strumarium) causes poisoning as a result of acute liver failure. Here we describe a spontaneous outbreak of X. strumarium toxicity in dairy cows in Uruguay. The outbreak occurred in the winter when the cows were fed sorghum silage contaminated with X. strumarium seeds. Clinical signs of depression, anorexia, paddling, opisthotonos, muscle tremors, sternal recumbency, and death were observed 2–12 h following ingestion. Of 160 Holstein cows, 30 (19%) animals were ill, and 6 (4%) died. At autopsy, the liver had a diffuse mottled appearance with intercalated red and yellow areas. Histologically, centrilobular hemorrhagic coagulative necrosis was found. The diagnosis of this natural outbreak of intoxication was based on the clinical signs observed, finding the fruits of X. strumarium in the silage, and the characteristic macroscopic and histologic lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This investigation aimed to assess the effect of additives on the aerobic stability, fermentation profile, and chemical composition of high-moisture corn grain silage. The corn grain was milled and divided this into four distinct treatment groups: Lentilactobacillus buchneri, propionic acid, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, and no additive (control). The capacity of the silos was 1 L and density was 1000 kg/m3. Each group had three replicates and was fermented for 45 d. At silo opening, one part of silage was used for fermentation parameters, chemical composition, and in vitro dry matter digestibility analysis; another part was used for aerobic stability determination. Compared with the control, all additives increased lactic acid and dry matter concentrations (p < 0.001) and decreased neutral detergent fiber level (p < 0.001). In comparison with the control, the application of Lentilactobacillus buchneri and propionic acid improved silage aerobic stability, showed by lower pH level and yeast and mold populations after exposure to air. The findings offer theoretical groundwork and technological backing for the use of high-moisture corn grain silage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: To improve the silage quality of Lotus corniculatus L. and expedite the promotion of cultivated varieties, this study investigates the impact of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum on the fermentation characteristics, bacterial community, and functional aspects of silage. The experiment included a control (CK) and a Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (LP) treatment, with sampling conducted at 3, 7, 15, and 45 days of fermentation to monitor nutritional value and fermentation quality, as well as changes in the bacterial community at 3 and 45 days. The results indicated that compared to the CK, the addition of LP significantly increased the lactic acid, dry matter, and crude protein content (p < 0.05) while substantially decreasing the water-soluble carbohydrates, pH, NH3-N, and acetic acid levels (p < 0.05). And the effect of adding LP was the most significant after 45 days of fermentation. LP promoted the growth of beneficial bacteria and inhibited harmful bacteria, with LP becoming the predominant genus and species after 45 days of fermentation. The metabolic pathway analysis revealed that the addition of LP enhanced carbohydrate metabolism and improved the replication and repair, translation, transcription, and membrane transport functions of the bacterial community. In summary, the addition of LP significantly enhances the silage quality of L. corniculatus and may serve as an effective method for promoting the application of L. corniculatus in karst regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the source of the bitter almond taste in whole corn silage (WPCS), headspace solid-phase microextraction combined with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS), headspace gas chromatography–ion migration spectrometry (HS-GC-IMS), and electronic nose (E-nose) technology were employed. The study analyzed the differences in volatile compounds between two WPCS samples with distinct odors from the same cellar. GC-IMS and GC-MS identified 32 and 101 volatile organic compounds (VOCs), respectively, including aldehydes, alcohols, esters, ketones, and other compounds. Three characteristic volatile organic compounds associated with the bitter almond taste were detected: benzaldehyde, cyanide, and isocyanate. The electronic nose demonstrated varying sensitivities across its sensors, and principal component analysis (PCA) combined with variable importance projection (VIP) analysis revealed that W5S (nitrogen oxides) could differentiate between the two distinct silage odors. This finding was consistent with the GC-MS results, which identified 34 nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds in the abnormal silage sample, accounting for 77% of the total nitrogen-containing compounds. In summary, significant differences in aroma composition were observed between the bitter almond-flavored silage and the other silage in the same cellar. These differences were primarily attributed to changes in volatile organic compounds, which could serve as indicators for identifying bitter almond-flavored silage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pomegranate peels are an industrial by-product high in sugar and phytochemical content and pose an environmental concern. Meanwhile, ensiling legume forage such as berseem is difficult due to its lower dry matter content and water-soluble carbohydrate-to-buffering capacity ratio, which leads to a poor fermentation process. To date, no studies have been conducted to investigate the effect of co-ensiling pomegranate peels with berseem. Thus, silage quality was evaluated after co-ensiling of berseem (control) with 50, 100, and 200 g/kg pomegranate peels or 50 g/kg molasses for 0, 15, 30, and 45 days (Experiment 1). Further, rumen nutrient degradation, methane production, and rumen fermentation parameters were evaluated in vitro (Experiment 2). Pomegranate peels (200 g/kg) and molasses reduced silage pH compared to control (4.41 or 3.79 vs. 5.02), ammonia-N (2.66 or 3.14 vs. 13.39 g/kg N), and butyric acid (0.05 or 0.1 vs. 0.96 g/kg DM) however, dry matter (323.5 or 283.6 vs. 212.8) and non-fiber carbohydrates (264.8 or 351.8 vs.136.9 g/kg) were increased, respectively. Pomegranate peels and molasses significantly (P < 0.05) increased rumen nutrient degradation and significantly (P < 0.05) decreased methane and ammonia-N production (Experiment 2). The chemical composition of silage, in-vitro rumen fermentation, and silage quality parameters were significantly (P < 0.05) correlated. Pomegranate peels and molasses have potentially improved silage quality and positively influenced rumen fermentation parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera) is a high-quality silage protein feed material that can help address feed shortages and support livestock development. Although some studies have investigated the relationships between microbial communities and silage quality, these relationships and the underlying community assembly processes remain complex, requiring further research to clarify them. Additionally, limited research has explored the relationship between microbial community fermentation functions and silage quality. In this study, we aimed to explore B. papyrifera and wheat bran mixed silage quality driven by the characteristics of the microbial community. After 50 days of silage fermentation, high-quality and low-quality samples were selected from every mixing ratio (90:10, 80:20, and 65:35). The silage chemical composition, lignocellulose degradation enzyme activity, microbial community composition, and potential functions were used to explore the relevance between silage quality and the characteristics of the microbial community. The contents of hemicellulose, neutral detergent fiber, pH, and the activities of endoglucanase and exoglucanase were significantly affected by mixing ratios and silage quality grade. There were higher crude protein content, lignocellulose degrading enzyme activity, and lower pH, lignin, and acid detergent fiber in the mixing of 65:35 (BP65%) samples. The PERMANOVA results showed that mixing ratios had significant impacts on microbial community composition and bacterial fermentation functions. There was a higher bacterial diversity, lower fungal diversity, and better functional potentials for fermentation and lignocellulose degradation in BP65% high-quality silage. The dominant genera were Lactobacillus , Cladosporium , and Wallemia in all samples. The relative abundance of Clostridium , Rhodococcus , Turicibacter , Ralstonia , and Burkholderia was significantly higher in BP65% high-quality samples. There was a higher abundance of Wallemia in the BP65% samples than in other mixing ratios samples. Notably, silage quality showed a close relationship with Lactobacillus , Turicibacter , Romboutsia , Wallemia, and Pichia. In summary, 65:35 was a suitable mixing ratio for B. papyrifera and wheat bran silage, but high-quality silage still required the participation of multiple specific rare microbial taxa. The higher bacterial diversity and specific microbial taxa abundance could be critical for improving B. papyrifera silage quality. We expect that our findings will provide new insights into silage quality driven by the characteristics of the microbial community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of HMC4 produced by protoplast fusion on silage was studied. The silage formula was composed of heterozygote HMC4 (Group C), parent Lactobacillus (Group A) and a combination of two parents (Group B). The fermentation quality and microbial composition of each batch of silage were evaluated. The results showed that the propionic acid concentration in group C was the lowest, but the organic acid content in feed was significantly increased. Groups B and C had slightly lower crude fiber levels than group A, while groups A and C had higher levels of soluble sugars. The dynamic observation of C group showed that the nutrient composition of feed changed gradually with the extension of silage period. High-throughput sequencing revealed fluctuations in microbial composition before and after silage. Over time, Lactobacillus became the dominant strain and its numbers steadily increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical and physical silage characteristics can change the animals’ feeding behavior (FB). The aim was to evaluate the effects of cutting height (CH) and bacterial inoculation (BI) in whole-plant corn silage (WPCS) on the FB of sheep. A completely randomized design was used in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement. The treatments were: WPCS harvested at 25 cm CH without (SI-25) and with (CI-25) BI (L. plantarum and P. acidipropionici), and at 40 cm CH without (SI-40) and with (CI-40) BI. Feeding (FT), rumination (RT), and idle (IDT) times were observed over 3 h throughout 48 h. The CH (p > 0.05) and BI (p > 0.05) affected the FB. The interaction CH × BI affected (p < 0.05) the FT and RT. The FT was higher at 08–11 h and 17–20 h and RT was relevant at night. The period affected (p < 0.05) the animals’ IDT. Higher IDT was observed in the 17–20 h period compared to the others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The enhancement of cellulose degradation is important for improving the quality of corn-stalk silage. However, the rapid drop in pH caused by the propagation of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) can influence the degradation of cellulose by cellulose-degrading microorganisms (CDMs) during the mixed fermentation process of ensilage. In this study, a CDM (Bacillus methylotrophic 2–4, BM 2–4) was isolated, and its lyophilization condition was studied. Moreover, a slow-release strategy was developed to delay the release of LAB (Lactobacillus plantarum S-1, LP S-1) by embedding technology to provide time for BM 2–4 to degrade cellulose during the corn-stalk ensilage process. The results showed that BM 2–4 had a higher survival rate (89.53%) under the following conditions: cell collection (5,600 r/min in 4.4°C for 9.5-min centrifugation) and lyophilization using cryoprotectants [skim milk (10.4%), peptone (10.4%), and glucose (5.2%)] at −50°C with a vacuum pressure of <10 Pa. Based on the results of the previous study on embedded LP S-1, simultaneous inoculation of embedded LP S-1 and lyophilized BM2-4 at a 2:1 ratio, with an inoculum size of 6% and moisture content of 85%, significantly degraded CF by 3.8% and increased CP by 3.7% (p < 0.05). This treatment did not significantly influence the final pH of corn-stalk silage (p > 0.05) after 7 days of fermentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: A better understanding of the physiological response of silage maize to a mild reduction in nitrogen (N) fertilization and the identification of predictive biochemical markers of N utilization efficiency could contribute to limit the detrimental effect of the overuse of N inputs. Objectives: We integrated phenotypic and biochemical data to interpret the physiology of maize in response to a mild reduction in N fertilization under agronomic conditions and identify predictive leaf metabolic and proteic markers that could be used to pilot and rationalize N fertilization. Methods: Eco-physiological, developmental and yield-related traits were measured and complemented with metabolomic and proteomic approaches performed on young leaves of a core panel of 29 European genetically diverse dent hybrids cultivated in the field under non-limiting and reduced N fertilization conditions. Results: Metabolome and proteome data were analyzed either individually or in an integrated manner together with eco-physiological, developmental, phenotypic and yield-related traits. They allowed to identify (i) common N-responsive metabolites and proteins that could be used as predictive markers to monitor N fertilization, (ii) silage maize hybrids that exhibit improved agronomic performance when N fertilization is reduced. Conclusions: Among the N-responsive metabolites and proteins identified, a cytosolic NADP-dependent malic enzyme and four metabolite signatures stand out as promising markers that could be used for both breeding and agronomic purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The x Triticosecale Wittmack ‘Shinjoseong’ variety was developed for use as a whole-crop silage obtained from a cross between CTSS93Y00058S-5Y-0Y-0B with early heading, lodging, and resistance to barley yellow mosaic virus and Suwon24 with winter-hardy and lodging-resistance traits by the National Institute of Crop Science (Wanju, Korea) in 2019. Shinjoseong has medium-sized green leaves, slightly short-length spikes with a light-yellow color, and slightly large seeds with a light yellow-brown color. Compared to the comparable cultivar, Shinyoung, Shinjoseong had a heading date of three days earlier (April 22nd, nationwide), stronger cold and lodging resistances, and the same level of disease resistance. Its average dry matter yield was 17.18 t/ha, 5% higher than that of the comparable cultivar. The crude protein, acid and neutral detergent fiber, and total digestible nutrient contents of Shinjoseong were 6.5%, 34.9%, 58.8%, and 61.3%, respectively, slightly higher than those of the comparable cultivar. However, the silage grade of Shinjoseong was 2, the same as that of the comparable variety. The grain yield of Shinjoseong was 7.36 t/ha, 13% higher than that of Shinyoung (Grant No. 9757). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effects of replacing whole-plant corn silage (CS) with different proportions of sweet sorghum silage (SS) on slaughter performance, meat quality and economic aspects of beef cattle. Fifteen 12- to 15-month-old Simmental steers were randomly divided into five groups with different diets. The experimental period consisted of a 15-day dietary adaptation period and a 120-day trial period. The control group contained 30% corn silage (30%CS), while the experimental groups contained 30% (30%SS), 50% (50%SS), 70% (70%SS) and 90% (90%SS) sweet sorghum silage in the forage, respectively. Compared with 30%CS, the average daily intakes (ADIs) and average daily gains (ADGs) in 50%SS and 70%SS were increased by 9.4% and 6.9%, 47.3% and 12.1%, respectively. The carcass net meat rates (CMRs) of 50%SS (77.8%) and 70%SS (75.3%) were significantly higher than that of 30% CS (73.5%). Replacing CS with SS increased the content of crude protein (24.14% vs 22.42%, p < 0.05), unsaturated fatty acids (45.95% vs 41.83%, p < 0.05), C20:4 fatty acids (4.13% vs 2.76%), beef marbling and net profit in 50%SS. Therefore, replacing CS with SS in diets has effects on the slaughter performance and meat quality of beef cattle as well as economic benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We determined the most suitable level of inclusion of spineless cactus in silage of BRS capiaçu on the fermentative profile and nutritional value of the silage produced. The treatments consisted of the inclusion of spineless cactus (Opuntia spp.) in BRS capiaçu grass ensilaged with increasing proportions (15%, 30%, 45%, and 60% of natural matter-NM) and a control treatment. A completely randomized design with five treatments and eight replications was used. The BRS capiaçu grass was harvested after 100 days of regrowth. For the silage, experimental PVC silos of known weights, 50 cm long and 10 cm in diameter, were used. The inclusion of spineless cactus in BRS capiaçu grass ensilage resulted in a linear increase in pH (P < 0.01), ammonia nitrogen content (P < 0.01), and effluent losses (P < 0.01). Quadratic effects were observed for lactic acid (P < 0.01) and acetic acid (P < 0.01), with respective maximum points for 22% and 24%. The highest values of the digestibility of dry matter (DM), organic matter, and neutral detergent fibre were found for inclusion levels of 47.11%, 42.35%, and 35.44%, respectively. The most suitable inclusion level was between 15 and 30% of NM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the fermentative parameters and chemical compositions of corn grain silages rehydrated with different moisture levels, inoculated with bacteria (Lentilactobacillus hilgardii combined with Lentilactobacillus buchneri), and investigate the impact of this strategy on silage at different storage times. The study was carried out in the Animal Nutrition Laboratory, Rio Verde, Brazil. The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design, in a triple factorial scheme, with six replications per treatment. At 30 and 40% moisture levels, the inoculant increased acidity. However, it was only at 35% moisture level that the inoculated silage achieved the pH within the appropriate range (4.16). In the silage without inoculant, the effluent loss was lower only in the silage with 30% moisture (9.11 g kg-1 DM). The presence or absence of the inoculant does not affect the concentration of crude protein and total carbohydrates. Rehydration with 35% moisture is recommended for quality silage production. Although the inoculant does not affect the chemical composition of the silage, its use is essential to ensure a proper fermentation process, preserve the quality and also to reduce nutrient losses during the moist grain silage preparation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of various treatment options on the nutritional value of wheat straw as well as the growth performance of crossbred calves fed the treated wheat straw were evaluated. Twenty-four female calves (75% Friesian-Borana), weighing 99.3 ± 19.7 kg (aged 6–9 months), were divided into four groups of six animals using a randomized complete block design. The feeding trial lasted approximately 104 days. The dietary treatments were: untreated wheat straw (control T1), wheat straw treated with urea-molasses (T2), urea-lime (T3), and effective microorganisms (T4). Results showed that the treatment options affected the physical silage quality and chemical composition of wheat straw. Calves in the T3 and T4 groups had a higher daily DM intake (3.7 and 3.5 kg/head, respectively) than those in T2 (3.1 kg/head) and T1 (3.02 kg/head) groups. Calves in the T3 (422.7 g/d) and T4 (391 g/d) groups gained greater weight than those in the T2 (281.7 g/d) and T1 (204.4 g/d) groups (P < 0.001). Thus, improving the feed value of wheat straw with urea-lime or effective microorganisms treatment options suggested in this trial could result in cost-effective and significant growth performances when crossbred calves were supplemented with concentrate at a rate of 1.2% of their live weights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to understand the research hotspots, research institutions and future development trend in the field of silage quality in China, this paper selects the papers in the field of silage quality research in China Knowledge Network Database from 2003 to 2023, and uses CiteSpace analysis software to visualize the dynamics of silage quality papers, publications, research institutions and authors' distributions, hotspots and keywords trend maps. The results showed that the number of research papers in the field of silage quality in China has shown a rising development trend, and the core regional publications reached 10. Both the institutional map and the author map indicated that there is a core research cluster among the authors, which can promote the research and development of silage quality. The future research of silage quality in China mainly focuses on the types of silage fermentation, mixed silage technology, silage quality evaluation, additives and microorganisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to screen out silage maize varieties suitable for planting in Shuangcheng area. The experiment compared investigating the growth period, agronomic traits, yield, and nutritional quality of 17 silage maize varieties, and their comprehensive performance data were quantitatively evaluated using grey correlation analysis. The results showed that among the 17 maize varieties, the silage Aobang m99 had the best plant height and stem diameter, which were 354.9 cm and 2.58 cm, respectively. The green leaf ratio of Tianyu 108 was 88.57%, which was not significantly different from that of Jingang 29, Daao 7000, m9898, Xianyu 1483, Tiannongjiu, Kenwo 9905, Jinlingqingzhu 418, Xiangyu 998, and Tieyuan 24 (P>0.05), but significantly higher than that of the other seven varieties (P<0.05). The silage yield was more than 60 t/hm² and the dry matter yield more than 20 t/hm² were Tieyuan 24, Jinboshi 825, Xianyu 1483, Tiannongjiu, m9898, and Jinggang 29. Except for silage Jinguyu 2124 and silage Aobang m99, the starch content of the other 15 varieties was greater than 28.00%DM, which reached the national first-class standard, and the difference between the varieties was not significant (P>0.05). The neutral detergent fiber content of Jinboshi 825 was the lowest, which was 44.27%DM. The lowest acid detergent fiber was Tiannongjiu (24.07%DM). The variety with the highest whole plant crude protein content was Jinguyu silage 2124 (9.32%DM). Jinboshi 825 and Tieyuan 24 had high comprehensive scores in grey correlation analysis. The study indicates that Jinboshi 825 and Tieyuan 24 have good comprehensive production performance and are suitable for promoting and planting as high-quality silage maize varieties in the Shuangcheng area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment aimed to explore the effects of different proportions of Pleurotus eryngii fungus bran and Lactobacillus plantarum on the silage quality and in vitro fermentation characteristics of whole-plant rice silage. The experiment used whole-plant rice as the raw material for silage, with a total of seven groups, each with five replicates. The control group (CON group) did not add any silage additives, P I group, P II group, and P III group were respectively added with 100, 200, 300 g/kg fungus bran for silage, PLI group, PLII group, and PLIII group were added with 100 g/kg fungus bran + 0.02 g/kg Lactobacillus plantarum, 200 g/kg fungus bran + 0.02 g/kg Lactobacillus plantarum, 300 g/kg fungus bran + 0.02 g/kg Lactobacillus plantarum for silage, respectively. The samples were taken for analysis after 60 days of silage. The results showed that the silage odor and total score of PL II and PL III groups were significantly better than those of the CON group (P<0.05), and the comprehensive evaluation score was excellent. The CP content of PLI group was significantly higher than that of other groups (P<0.05). After 2rd days of aerobic exposure, the pH value of all groups was lower than 4.5, and on the 4th days of aerobic exposure, the ammoniacal nitrogen (NH3-N) of PII and PLII groups was significantly lower than that of other groups (P<0.05). The in vitro fermentation pH value of PLII group was higher than that of other groups. The dry matter (DM) degradation rate of the CON group was higher than that of other groups. The degradation rate of crude protein (CP) in each treatment group was significantly higher than that of the CON group (P<0.05). The degradation rate of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) of the PII group was higher than that of other groups. The study indicates that adding Pleurotus eryngii fungus bran and Lactobacillus plantarum in whole-plant rice silage can effectively improve the quality of whole-plant rice silage and in vitro fermentation characteristics, and it is recommended to add 300 g/kg of fungus bran + 0.02 g/kg of Lactobacillus plantarum to whole-plant rice silage (fresh weight basis). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to determine the effect of homo (Lactiplantibacillus plantarum FNCC 0020) and hetero (Limosilactobacillus fermentum BN21) fermentative lactic acid bacteria on chemical compositions, fermentation characteristics, aerobic stability, and ruminal digestibility of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) silage. The sorghum forage was harvested at the milk ripening phase with a dry matter content of 25.6% and fermented for 100 days with different inoculants: treatments without inoculant (CON), L. plantarum (LP), L. fermentum (LF) as well as a mixture of LP and LF at a ratio of 1:1 (MIX). The experiment was conducted using a completely randomized design with 5 replications per treatment, and all inoculants were applied at 105 cfu/g of fresh forage. The results showed that LF silage caused a 66.3% reduction in cyanide acid content, the lowest mold count, and longer aerobic stability compared to LP and CON. The lowest pH (p<0.05) and highest organic matter digestibility (p<0.05) were obtained on LP silage, while the CON silage showed no significant difference. The LP and LF silage showed the highest total volatile fatty acid (p<0.05), while there was no significant between CON and others. The LF silage had the highest acetate and the lowest propionate (p<0.05). These results showed that L. fermentum was more effective in decreasing cyanide acid content and increasing the aerobic stability of sorghum silage, while L. plantarum was able to lower pH and reduce ammonia concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to enhance nutrient intake, digestibility, rumen fermentation, and blood metabolites in Kacang goats by substituting grass silage with hydroponic maize fodder enriched with fermented compost tea. The compost tea, prepared by fermenting organic compost with sugared water + 40 mL EM4 for 3 days, was used to grow maize fodder hydroponically. Four male Kacang goats (13.05 ± 1.32 kg) were assigned to four dietary treatments in a 4x4 latin square design over four 15-day periods (10 days for adaption, 5 days for data collection). The treatments were: 60% grass silage + 10% Leucaena leucocephala + 30% concentrate (control, FCG0); 30% grass silage + 30% hydroponic maize fodder + 10% L. leucocephala + 30% concentrate (FCG1); 15% grass silage + 45% hydroponic maize fodder + 10% L. leucocephala + 30% concentrate (FCG2); and 60% hydroponic maize fodder + 10% L. leucocephala + 30% concentrate (FCG3). Goats on FCG3 had lower (p<0.05) dry matter intake (152.48 g/day) compared to FCG0 (226.83 g/day). Nutrient digestibility, including organic matter and crude fiber, improved (p<0.05) in FCG3 (77.21% and 66.12%) compared to FCG0 (76.62% and 52.27%). Total volatile fatty acids (VFA) increased in FCG3 (131.54 mM) compared to FCG0 (111.73 mM). However, no significant differences were observed in ruminal ammonia (NH3-N), ruminal pH, or blood metabolites. In conclusion, substituting grass silage with hydroponic maize fodder enriched with fermented compost tea up to 75% of the diet improved digestibility and rumen fermentation without negatively affecting intake, digestibility, or blood metabolites in Kacang goats, suggesting its potential as an alternative feed. However, complete substitution (100%) reduced intake, indicating challenges at higher substitution levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Safflower - Carthamus tinctorius L. - is a climate-smart crop, adaptable to variable environmental conditions as compared with other species in the Asteraceae family. The goal of this study was to evaluate the biochemical composition and the nutritive value of green mass and silage from safflower, Carthamus tinctorius L., cultivated in the experimental plot of the "Alexandru Ciubotaru" National Botanical Garden (Institute) MSU, Chisinau. The safflower whole plants harvested in the flowering period were found to contain 295.0 g/kg dry matter with 9.22% crude protein, 2.34% crude fats, 27.80% crude cellulose, 51.96% nitrogen free extract, 6.61 % starch, 15.8% soluble sugars, 8.68 % ash, 0.94% calcium, 0.30% phosphorus and feed energy values of 17.82 MJ/kg gross energy, 9.83 MJ/kg metabolizable energy, 5.63 MJ/kg net energy for lactation. The quality indices of prepared safflower silage were: 282.5 g/kg dry matter, pH=4.14, 22.2 g/kg lactic acid, 2.7 g/kg acetic acid, 0.1 g/kg butyric acid, 8.42% crude protein, 3.06% crude fats, 33.51% crude cellulose, 46.22% nitrogen free extract, 7.19 % starch, 4.09% soluble sugars, 8.80 % ash, 0.97% calcium, 0.28% phosphorus and feed energy values 18.05 MJ/kg gross energy, 9.21 MJ/kg metabolizable energy, 5.14 MJ/kg net energy for lactation. Our results suggest that safflower contains many nutrients, which make it suitable to be used as alternative fodder for livestock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the quality indices of harvested green mass, silage and hay from Astragalus species: local ecotype of Astragalus cicer and A. galegiformis cv. 'Vigor', grown in an experimental field of the National Botanical Garden (Institute) of Moldova State University. It was determined that the quality indices of the harvested green mass varied among the species and were influenced by the harvesting period: 202.30-245.80 g/kg dry matter with 17.00-22.32 % crude protein, 3.19-4.36 % crude fats, 22.06-35.52 % crude cellulose, 6.17-8.03 % ash, 0.54-1.14 % calcium, 0.26-0.30 % phosphorus, 36.71-43.28 % nitrogen free extract, 0.98-1.00 nutritive unit/kg dry matter and 10.03-10.25 MJ/kg metabolizable energy, 127-166 g digestible protein per nutritive unit. The silages prepared from Astragalus galegiformis contained 263.8-268.7 g/kg dry matter with 7.42-7.71 % lactic acid, 0.01-0.08% butyric acid and 2.39-2.73 % acetic acid, 17.31-21.43 % crude protein, 5.20-5.55 % crude fats, 23.30-38.77 % crude cellulose, 7.38-6.06 % ash, 0.60-1.04 % calcium, 0.29-0.30 % phosphorus, 30.94-41.01 % nitrogen free extract. The hay prepared from Astragalus species contained 16.60-21.13 % crude protein, 2.48-3.59 % crude fats, 26.33-31.17 % crude cellulose, 7.53-7.98 % ash, 0.80-0.82 % calcium, 0.28 % phosphorus, 41.42-41.71 % nitrogen free extract with feed value 0.80-0.83 nutritive unit/kg, 7.99-8.34 MJ/kg metabolizable energy and 102-126 g digestible protein per nutritive unit. The fresh and ensiled Astragalus substrates for anaerobic digestion had optimal C/N=14.31-18.51 and specific methane yields varied from 273 to 287 l/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the storage time effects on whole-plant sorghum silage nutrients fermentation profile, fermentation losses, mycotoxin concentrations and aerobic stability. Sixteen experimental silos (cylindrical bag with 32 cm i.d. and six kg of silage) were used in a completely randomised design to evaluate the following storage times: 45, 90, 180 and 360 days. Storage time linearly increased silage Ammonia-N, propionic and butyric acid concentrations. In addition, treatments had a quadratic effect on silage pH and concentrations of lactic and acetic acids. Storage time did not affect fermentation losses, dry matter recovery and zearalenone concentration. However, storage time linearly decreased silage dry matter concentration and linearly increased deoxynivalenol silage content. Aflatoxin and fumonisin were not identified in silage samples. Storage time linearly increased silage pH regardless of evaluation period, and temperature, 24 h after aerobic exposure. Thus, the storage time of whole-plant sorghum silage affects the fermentation profile, has no effect on fermentation losses, increases deoxynivalenol content and reduces silage aerobic stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the silage characteristics of oat lines developed through a rigorous 10-year selection process. During this period, 100 plants with high biomass yield were meticulously chosen from oat lines obtained from the Louisiana State University gene bank. Researchers designed experiments using an incomplete randomized block format across two growing seasons: 2014–2015 and 2015–2016. Oat plants were carefully harvested at the milk stage, chopped into pieces using a specialized plant chopper, and ensiled in plastic vacuum bags for subsequent analysis. The samples were then stored at room temperature for a period of 60 days. The comprehensive analysis conducted over this two-year research period revealed significant variations in the silage yields of the genotypes, ranging from 5.71 to 24.42 t ha−1. Moreover, notable variations were observed in the content of crude ash (ranging from 3.952 to 9.380%), ADF (ranging from 27.899 to 40.782%), NDF (ranging from 40.688 to 63.999%), crude protein (ranging from 6.673 to 11.470%), dry matter (ranging from 14.954 to 41.817%), pH levels (ranging from 3.812 to 5.668), in vitro gas production (ranging from 49.793 to 67.847 ml), methane production (ranging from 15.036 to 18.442 ml), as well as concentrations of acetic acid (ranging from 0.000 to 0.144%), lactic acid (ranging from 1.974 to 2.599%), butyric acid (ranging from 0.000 to 0.064%), and propionic acid (ranging from 0.000 to 0.306%). The study clearly indicated that many oat lines showed promising silage properties. Consequently, it is inferred that the utilization of high-yield lines in silage production holds considerable potential in providing a valuable feed source for livestock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The black soil in Northeast China is one of the three largest black soil regions in the world. While producing large quantities of fresh waxy corn every year, this region also generates a significant amount of fresh waxy corn stalk. These high-sugar stalks not only hinder planting for the following year but also pose environmental pollution risks. A feasible solution to these issues is converting the fresh waxy corn stalks into ruminant feed through biological fermentation. In this study, we used three different silage additives to ferment fresh waxy corn stalks and compared their effects on the chemical composition, fermentation characteristics, ruminal degradability, culturable microorganisms, and bacterial community structure of the stalk. This study fills the data gap on the feed value of fresh waxy corn stalks and provides theoretical support for its application in ruminant production. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of Lactobacillus plantarum, Bacillus subtilis, and a lignocellulolytic enzyme system on the nutritional value, fermentation profiles, rumen digestion, and bacterial community of fresh waxy corn stalk silage. Fresh waxy corn stalks harvested after 90 days of growth were treated with no additives (CON), compound multiple lactobacilli (ML, comprising Lactobacillus plantarum at 1.0 × 105 cfu/g fresh weight and Bacillus subtilis at 1.0 × 105 cfu/g fresh weight), a lignocellulolytic enzyme system (LE, at 500 g/t), and a combination of the lignocellulolytic enzyme system and multiple lactobacilli (MLLE). Throughout the fermentation process, the contents of dry matter (DM) and water-soluble carbohydrates (WSC), as well as the counts of lactic acid bacteria, yeast, and mold, continuously decreased with the extension of the fermentation time. In contrast, the concentrations of acetic acid, propionic acid, and ammonia N progressively increased over time. Notably, the pH initially decreased and then increased as fermentation progressed, while the lactic acid concentration first increased and then decreased with the extension of the fermentation time. After 45 days of fermentation, the DM contents of LE and MLLE were significantly lower than that of CON, while the WSC content of MLLE was significantly higher than that of CON. LE most effectively increased the ED of DM and neutral detergent fiber (NDF). Compared to ML and LE, MLLE showed a greater increase in the "a" value of DM and NDF. The DM content in LE and MLLE was lower than in CON, with a higher WSC content. Both ML and MLLE produced more lactic acid than CON and LE, resulting in a lower pH in these groups. Additionally, the acetic acid content and ammonia N content were lower in ML and MLLE compared to CON and LE. The counts of lactic acid bacteria, yeast, and mold declined over the fermentation period, dropping below detectable levels on the seventh and fifth days, respectively. Relative to CON, the three additives reduced the relative abundance of Weissella and Klebsiella and increased that of Lactobacillus. In conclusion, LE improved the nutritional value and rumen digestion of the silage, ML enhanced its fermentation profiles and bacterial community, and MLLE significantly improved the nutritional value, rumen digestion characteristics, fermentation profiles, and bacterial community of the fresh waxy corn stalk silage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Planting oat forage in fallow fields during winter and producing total mixed ration (TMR) silage can effectively address issues of land wastage and forage shortages while maintaining forage quality. This study used oats and common vetch grown in winter fields in southern China as base materials, with additives including corn flour, soybean meal, corn lees, cottonseed meal, and premixes to formulate mixed feeds with roughage-to-concentrate ratios of 75:25, 70:30, and 65:35 on a dry matter basis. TMR silage was inoculated with a customized mixed lactic acid bacteria (LAB) additive composed of Lactobacillus plantarum 160 (patent number ZL202210218695.5), Lactobacillus pentosus 260 (patent number ZL202210204293), and Lactobacillus buchneri 225 (patent number ZL202210204293), at a ratio of 2:1:1, with addition rates of 4 × 106, 2 × 106, and 2 × 106 cfu/g, respectively (IN), while sterile distilled water served as the control (CK). After a 60-day fermentation, the cornell net carbohydrate protein system (CNCPS) and in vitro digestion analysis were used to assess the effects of different roughage-to-concentrate ratios on the carbohydrate and protein components and ruminal degradation rate of fermented TMR (FTMR) silage, as well as to evaluate the impact of mixed LAB inoculation on FTMR nutritional quality, fermentation quality, and aerobic stability. The results indicated the following: (1) Regardless of the LAB addition, dry matter (DM), ether extract (EE), crude protein (CP), and Ash contents significantly decreased (p < 0.05) as the concentrate level decreased. In the IN group, as the concentrate level decreased, the water-soluble carbohydrate (WSC) content significantly increased (p < 0.05), the pH significantly decreased (p < 0.05), and the NH3-N/TN significantly decreased (p < 0.05), with LAB counts significantly higher at a 65:35 roughage-to-concentrate ratio than in the other two groups. In the CK group, no significant changes (p > 0.05) were observed in the WSC content, pH, or LAB counts. (2) CNCPS analysis showed that in the IN group, the carbohydrate (CHO) content at a 75:25 roughage-to-concentrate ratio was significantly higher than in the other two groups (p < 0.05), while the non-utilizable carbohydrate (CC) content was significantly lower (p < 0.05). As the concentrate levels decreased, the non-protein nitrogen (PA) and moderately degradable true protein (PB2) content significantly increased (p < 0.05), whereas the rapidly degradable true protein (PB1) and slowly degradable true protein (PB3) content significantly decreased (p < 0.05). In the CK group, the CHO, PA, PB2, and PC content significantly increased (p < 0.05) as concentrate levels decreased, while the PB1 and PB3 content significantly decreased (p < 0.05). (3) In vitro digestibility characteristics indicated that gas production (GP) in the IN group was significantly lower than in the CK group (p < 0.05), with crude protein degradability increasing as concentrate levels decreased, regardless of the LAB addition. (4) At a 65:35 roughage-to-concentrate ratio, aerobic stability in the IN group was significantly higher than in the CK group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, higher concentrate ratios in total mixed rations (TMRs) with varying roughage-to-concentrate proportions improve the nutritional quality and promote the ruminal degradation of the FTMR. LAB inoculant addition could be an effective approach for addressing FTMR feed challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the high price of whole-plant corn silage in southern China, many dairy farms are attempting to prepare whole-plant corn silage using corn stover and corn flour, but the mixing ratio has not yet been determined. Therefore, we mixed fresh corn stover and corn flour at the proportions of 100:0 (F0 group) to 80:20 (F20 group), using five groups with three replicates each. The optimal mixing ratio was determined by assessing the nutritional composition, fermentation quality, and bacterial community of silage after 45 days. The results showed that dry matter and water-soluble carbohydrates in silage increased linearly with the increasing ratio of corn flour (p < 0.01) while crude protein, true protein, neutral detergent fiber, acidic detergent fiber, and crude ash content decreased linearly (p < 0.01). The F0 group had the highest pH, and the mixing ratio quadratically affected ammonia nitrogen concentration (p < 0.05). Additionally, at the phylum level, the relative abundances of Proteobacteria and Cyanobacteria in the F15 group were significantly higher than in other groups (p < 0.05). At the genus level, Lactobacillus increased with corn flour inclusion compared to the F0 group. In conclusion, the silage quality is the best when the mixing ratio of fresh corn stover and corn flour is 85:15. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]