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Summary: Background: Ocular diseases are common in horses and their occurrence is frequently associated with trauma. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate how stable management practices, such as environment, feeding or use of fly masks, are related to the development of eye diseases, primarily corneal ulceration, in horses. Study design: A survey of horse owners in the state of North Carolina was conducted and owners were asked how they managed their horses and the types of eye diseases the horses experienced. Methods: Data collected included the primary environment of the horse (stable or pasture), type and method of feeding of hay, use of fly masks and eye diseases that the horses have developed. Correlations between management practices and eye disease were then performed. Results: Of 446 horses, 161 (36% of total) had been diagnosed with a corneal ulcer, 44 (10%) had multiple occurrences of corneal ulcers, 65 [15%] horses had uveitis and 15 (3%) had immune‐mediated keratitis. Horses that were kept at pasture exclusively were significantly less likely to have had a corneal ulcer than horses kept in a combination of pasture and stalls (p = 0.04). Horses that wore the fly masks year‐round (p < 0.0001) and wore fly masks in both the pasture and stall (p = 0.01) were significantly more likely to have been diagnosed with multiple occurrences of corneal ulcers. There was no significant correlation between types of hay (p = 0.59) or how hay was fed (p = 0.49) with the occurrence of corneal ulceration or other ocular diseases. Main limitations: Results were based on horse owner responses and not medical professionals. Conclusions: Horses kept primarily at pasture have fewer ocular diseases, likely because they sustain less ocular trauma compared to horses kept in stables. How hay is fed does not correlate with the incidence of corneal or other ocular disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, we investigate how spiders can be used to assess the effectiveness of restoring mesic grasslands on former urban lawns. We compile and analyze a comprehensive dataset, including both past and current data, focusing on the Aachen region. By systematically examining this data, we identify various indicators using different analytical methods. This approach allows us to distinguish distinct species communities, making them useful as diagnostic tools at various stages of habitat development. Additionally, we identify further parameters that are essential for evaluating meadow restoration in urban settings. We highlight the crucial importance of understanding the local species repertoire, as this knowledge is vital for setting realistic benchmarks for restoration projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document "Thanks to Reviewers" from the journal Criminal Justice & Behavior acknowledges and appreciates the numerous individuals who reviewed manuscripts in 2024. The list includes a diverse range of names from various backgrounds and expertise, showcasing the collaborative effort in the field of criminal justice. This comprehensive list reflects the dedication and commitment of reviewers to ensure the quality and integrity of research in the discipline. [Extracted from the article]

A completely randomised design was adopted with five treatments urea levels of 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8% of dry matter and five replicates per treatment. The fermentation products were analysed using an in vitro semiautomatic gas production technique. Ammoniation had a significant linear effect on DM, NDF, hemicellulose, acid detergent fiber, and neutral detergent insoluble nitrogen. Ammoniation had a positive linear effect on crude protein (CP) content; increasing urea by 1% caused an increase in CP by 5.19 g kg−1 DM. The gas production based on DM, OM, and NDF decreased linearly with increasing urea for every 1% urea added to the hay, there was a reduction in gas production of 1.40, 3.27, and 4.21 ml/g DM, OM, and NDF, respectively. The concentration of methane decreased linearly with urea dose; for each 1% reduction in urea, there was a 0.15, 0.34, and 0.41 ml/g reduction in methane concentration during the degradation of DM, OM, and NDF, respectively. Ammoniation with 8% urea improved the chemical composition of cassava stem hay and decreased methane production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reactions of trans‐(C6F5)(p‐tol3P)2Pt(C≡C)nSiEt3 (PtC2nSi; n=5, 7, 9) and excess PtCl in the presence of wet n‐Bu4N+ F− (to effect protodesilylation) under Sonogashira‐type conditions (CuCl, base, other additives) afford the title compounds PtC10Pt, PtC14Pt, and PtC18Pt in 42–32 % yields. A four‐fold substitution of the phosphine ligands in PtC10Pt by PEt3 affords Pt'C10Pt' (78 %), and a Sonogashira reaction of Pt'C2H and Pt'Cl affords Pt'C2Pt' (68 %). The analogous reaction with PtC2Si and PtCl is unsuccessful, presumably for steric reasons. The crystal structures of PtC10Pt, PtC14Pt, Pt'C10Pt′, and Pt'C2Pt' exhibit a number of interesting trends and features. Certain sp chain extension reactions that lead to or employ the precursors PtC10Si, PtC12Si, PtC14Si, and PtC18Si sometimes give byproducts derived from C2 loss, and possible origins are discussed. Related phenomena have been reported by others in the course of synthesizing extended conjugated polyynes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food caching and haying can help species to survive extreme environmental conditions and cope with seasonal fluctuations in resource availability. We documented the food caching/haying behavior of the Ladakh Pika (Ochotona ladacensis) and the Nubra Pika (O. nubrica) from the cold desert of the Changthang biotic province, Ladakh, India, and contrasted their haying strategies under differing conditions of sociality and niche occupation. We found that the more social and larger species, O. ladacensis —which lives in open microhabitats—built larger and more conspicuous haypiles compared to O. nubrica —which built smaller, concealed haypiles in less open microhabitats. Ochotona ladacensis collected a different set of plants with greater overall richness than O. nubrica. Both species collected distasteful, toxic plants that are known to discourage herbivory. Ochotona nubrica placed haypiles closer to burrows in comparison to O. ladacensis. Haypiles in O. ladacensis colonies were clumped rather than uniformly distributed, not meeting predictions of the theory of cache defensibility associated with theft by conspecifics. The present study provides insights into haypile characteristics and associated behavioral responses of high-elevation pikas to variation in the availability of resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to determine the yield and quality characteristics of white clover at different harvest time. The study was carried out according to the randomized blocks experimental design in 2021 and 2022, and the Rivendel variety of white clover was used as the plant material in the study. Four different harvest time of white clover, as early bloom, mid-bloom, full bloom, and after-bloom, were considered as the research subject. In the experiment, the plant height, green forage yield, dry matter yield, dry matter ratio, crude protein, crude protein yield, insoluble fiber in acid detergent (ADF), insoluble fiber in neutral detergent (NDF), relative feed value and phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium contents of white clover were investigated. It has been determined that the differences in all of these examined features in different harvest time of white clover were statistically significant. In the research, white clover reached the highest plant height (32.3 cm and 27.8 cm), green forage yield (38.367 kg ha-1 and 52.080 kg ha-1), dry matter yield (10.707 kg ha-1 and 13.424 kg ha-1), and crude protein yield (1987 kg ha-1 and 2544 kg ha-1) in full bloom in both years. In 2021, the highest crude protein and relative feed value and the lowest ADF and NDF ratios were obtained during early bloom and mid-bloom, while in 2022, the highest values for these characteristics were obtained only from early bloom stages. It was determined that the lowest phosphorus and potassium contents and the highest calcium and magnesium contents were obtained from the after bloom stage in both years. As a result, since the highest yield values and average quality values are obtained from the full bloom stage, it has been concluded that it was more advantageous for the producer to harvest the white clover at this stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The fecal and cecal microbiomes of healthy horses fed a HAY diet, hay + starch and sugar (SS), and hay + fiber and oil ingredients (FO) were compared using high-throughput sequencing and qPCR. Diet effects were also compared by assessing short-chain fatty acids, pH, and buffer capacity (BC). HAY was associated with lower alpha diversity in feces and a higher abundance of fiber-degrading bacterial genera. In contrast, SS showed a higher abundance of genera linked to non-structural carbohydrate fermentation and intestinal acidosis, while FO was associated with genera related to fiber degradation and markers of improved health status. The highest values of fecal pH were observed in HAY; higher values of BC at pH 6 were observed in the cecum in FO and SS, and a higher BC at pH 5 was observed in the feces of SS. Taken together, these data demonstrated that diets based on fiber, SS, and FO, although influencing cecal and fecal microbiota and fecal diversity, did not significantly affect digestive parameters and might not promote health risks to horses. Different energy sources are often used in horse diets to enhance health and performance. Understanding how diet impacts the cecal and fecal microbiota is crucial for meeting the nutritional needs of horses. High-throughput sequencing and qPCR were used to compare the fecal and cecal microbiota of five healthy horses receiving three different diets: hay diet (HAY), hay + starch and sugar (SS), and hay + fiber and oil ingredients (FO). Assessment of short-chain fatty acids, pH, and buffer capacity was also performed. The HAY diet was associated with the highest values of fecal pH; the FO and SS diets were associated with higher values of BC6 in the cecum, and the SS diet had higher BC5 values in feces (p < 0.05). HAY was associated with a lower alpha diversity in feces and with a higher abundance of Treponema, Fibrobacter, Lachnospiraceae AC2044, and Prevotellaceae UCG-003 in feces. SS was associated with a higher abundance of Desulfovibrio, the Lachnospiraceae AC2044 group, and Streptococcus in the cecum, and Streptococcus and Prevotellaceae UCG-001 in feces, while FO was associated with higher Prevotella, Prevotellaceae UCG-003, and Akkermansia in the cecum, and the Rikenellaceae RC9 gut group and Ruminococcus in feces. This study indicated that different energy sources can influence cecal and fecal microbiota composition and fecal diversity without significantly affecting fermentation processes under experimental conditions. These findings suggest that the diets studied may not pose immediate health risks; however, further research is needed to generalize these effects on gastrointestinal microbiota in broader equine populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of International Journal of Language Academy is the property of Rota Kariyer and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Agrivoltaics represents a key technology for reaching sustainable development goals by reducing the competition between land used for food, for feed, and for electricity. It has been demonstrated that Agrivoltaics can increase land productivity and play a role in the expansion of renewable energy production. This work aimed to study the yield and nutritional characteristics, as well as feeding value for ruminants of Durum wheat biomass grown under agrivoltaic. Two years of controlled experiments revealed that the reduction in light moderately limited wheat yields in the phenological phase of soft dough in standard agrivoltaic trackers (i.e. with a Ground Coverage Ratio (GCR) = 13%), otherwise under extended trackers (i.e. GCR = 41%), the yields was reduced compared to control in whole light. The digestible neutral detergent fiber evaluated after 24 h of in situ rumen incubations increased with shading, resulting in different ratios of acid detergent lignin. More shaded theses also had superior crude and soluble proteins, acid detergent-insoluble protein, acid and neutral detergent fiber than the control. The biomass in the shaded treatments showed a better Ca: P ratio for ruminant nutrition. These characteristics are strategic in forage production, allowing a more flexible harvesting strategy. This additional contribution of the nutritional characteristics of Durum wheat produced on Agrivoltaic Systems could allow a better inclusion of the different types in diets and better management of silage or hay harvesting sites. These results might be helpful in improving biomass production and give valuable information on Durum Wheat under the Agrivoltaic System. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective was to evaluate nutrient loss during the dehydration process of three tropical forage legumes. The legumes studied were Stylosanthes spp. (80% Stylosanthes capitata + 20% Stylosanthes macrocephala), Pueraria phaseoloides, and Macrotyloma axillare. The forage was cut at 6:45 am, chopped and spread on polyethylene tarps to be exposed to the sun. Dry matter (DM) content, neutral detergent fiber corrected for ash and protein (NDFap), crude protein (CP), non-protein nitrogen (NPN), ether extract (EE), soluble carbohydrates (SCH), and total digestible nutrients (TDN) were analysed. On the third day, Stylosanthes spp. and Pueraria phaseoloides exhibited the highest dehydration rates (3.47% and 3.81% water loss/hour, respectively), followed by the first day (3.17% and 3.05% water loss/hour). There was an interaction (P < 0.05) between dehydration times and legumes for DM, CP, NPN, EE, and SCH. Among the legumes, Stylosanthes spp. had the highest (P < 0.05) NDFap levels (512.5 g.kg-1 in hay), Pueraria phaseoloides presented the highest (P < 0.05) CP levels, and Macrotyloma axillare exhibited the highest (P < 0.05) levels of EE and SCH (197.4, 25.7, and 32.2 g.kg-1 in hay, respectively). During dehydration, the contents of NPN, EE, and SCH decreased linearly (P < 0.05). All legumes showed a decrease in NPN, EE, and SCH contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Red leather leaf (RLL), caused by Neospermospora avenae , is a common foliar disease of oats in south-eastern Australia but its impact on hay and grain yield and quality is unknown. Aim: We aimed to determine the effect of RLL on grain yield and quality of commercial milling oat varieties, and biomass and nutrition of hay oat varieties, with a range of host plant resistance responses by comparing fungicide and disease treatments. Methods: A total of eight field experiments were conducted in 2019 and 2020; four experiments each investigated the effects of RLL on hay or milling oats. In each experiment, six or seven oat varieties were sown with a disease or fungicide imposed. RLL severity was estimated visually for each experiment. Biomass yield and quality traits at early milk development stage were measured for hay oat experiments; and grain yield and quality for the milling oat experiments. Key results: RLL severity (% leaf area affected: 0–44% in hay oats and 2–61% in milling oats) varied with the season, varietal resistance, and treatments. RLL caused significant losses in most experiments, with reductions in biomass of up to 3.5 t/ha (22%) in hay oats and grain yield of up to 1.1 t/ha (21%) in milling oats. Conclusions: RLL can be a severe foliar disease of oats in south-eastern Australia and cause significant losses in both hay and milling oat crops. Implications: Growing varieties with resistance can effectively reduce potential loss due to RLL and growers are required to adapt fungicide strategies reflecting seasonal conditions and product type (grain or hay). Red leather leaf is a common disease of oats in south-eastern Australia, with unknown impacts on hay and grain yield and quality. The oat Industry needs this information on disease management to avoid major production losses and potential loss to export markets. We show that this disease can cause significant losses, with up to 3.5 t/ha (22%) biomass loss in hay oats and 1.1 t/ha (21%) grain yield loss in milling oats. This demonstrates the need for appropriate management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different types of supplied roughage may cause losses in the chemical composition and digestibility of gliricidia (Gliricidia sepium [Jacq.] Kunth ex Walp.) depending on their making and fed-out management. This study has summarized data from scientific studies on gliricidia and compared its nutritional value in various fed forms using a systematic review approach and principal component analysis (PCA). A robust survey of scientific papers was realized on web indexes of periodicals and databases from 1990 to 2023. Data from 100 scientific researches has been compiled and analyzed. In 40% of the trials, the gliricidia nutritional value was determined as fresh leaves, while 30% was in the form of ‘leaves + thin stems’. Gliricidia was evaluated as silage in 11% of the opportunities, followed by 10% as leaf meal and 9% as hay. Non-fiber carbohydrates, crude protein (CP), and organic matter digestibility (OM) had negative correlations with neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), and lignin. Only NDF, ADF, and CP contents could explain 71% of the total data variation (PC1 and PC2). There was no discrimination among fed forms, so they showed similar nutrient compositions. Eventual nutrient losses reported in the scientific researches owing to ensilage, haymaking, and leaf meal-making processes do not mischaracterize the gliricidia nutritional value. The assorted manners of roughage making, and fed-out management traditionally performed by farmers can conserve the excellent nutritional quality of gliricidia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The imperative need to produce safe foodstuffs using environmentally sustainable practices has highlighted the incorporation of legumes in human and animal diets as an emerging nutritional staple. Since legumes comprise a family of plants known to display an extensive agricultural diversity with significant bioactivities, we report herein the exploitation outcome of the nutritional and bio-functional content of hay, derived from the post-harvest aerial parts of eight novel-improved Greek cultivars belonging to the following six taxa: Larthyrus sativus L., Medicago sativa L., Cicer arietinum L., Pisum sativum L., Vicia faba L., and Phaseolus vulgaris L. In specific, the phytochemical content of their hay extracts was screened against the presence of 37 fatty acids and 67 polyphenols using, respectively, GC-FID and LC-MS/MS instruments, while the determination of their total phenolic and tannin contents was achieved with spectrophotometric methods. In this respect, the presence of 26 different fatty acids was detected of which the acids linoleic, linolenic and palmitic were traced in all extracts in concentrations exceeding the 10 mg/g, while the oleic acid was determined as the major component of C. arietinum (77.58 mg/g), V. faba (36.11 mg/g), and L. sativus (12.89 mg/g) extracts. In addition, 30 different phenolics were traced as extracts' components with the most abundant the molecule of isoquercetin, which was present in six extracts and isoliquiritigenin, calycosin, and chlorogenic acid which were detected in five extracts. Finally, the antioxidant properties of the extracts were evaluated by performing both DPPH• and FRAP assays, which highlighted the V. faba extract as the most potent in both tests, followed by the extracts of P. sativum and P. vulgaris. Results herein are indicative of the significant advances achieved, for the improvement of investigated plant cultivars with respect to their utilization as nutritional crops, since these novel cultivars hays have been found to contain significant amounts of essential nutrients in the form of fatty acids along with bioactive ingredients in the form of polyphenols, while simultaneously they were determined as deprived of tannins that constitute essential anti-nutritional factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Literatura y Lingüística is the property of Universidad Catolica Cardenal Raul Silva Henriquez and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Fodder scarcity and low quality affect the productivity of dairy cattle in Kenya yet only few smallholder dairy farmers show positive deviance in fodder conservation. Information on the strategies of such positive deviant (PD) farmers is scanty. The objective of this study was to determine strategies that distinguish PDs from peers (non-PDs) in fodder conservation among smallholder dairy farmers in highlands and midlands of Kenya. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among farms producing and conserving fodder in Tharaka Nithi County. Multistage sampling procedures was used; purposive sampling of the Sub-counties and locations, random selection of villages and proportional selection of 246 farms through snowball chain referral. Data were collected on demographic, socio-economic, farm characteristics and fodder conservation. Farms were categorized as PDs (n = 24) or non-PDs (n = 97). The PDs conserved fodder adequate to last dry season (about 3 months) and had milk yield 15 kg/cow/day and above, while non-PDs do not qualify for both criteria. Chi-square and T-test were used to analyze categorical and continuous variables respectively. Logit regression was used to examine independent variables that influence probability of PDs. Farmers with high school and tertiary education who accessed extension services were PDs while non-PDs had non-formal and primary education and access extension less. Farms conserving hay and silage dominated PDs. Land in hectare (ha) and herd sizes in Tropical Livestock Unit (TLU) distinguished PDs (1.7 ha and 9.0 TLU) from non-PDs (0.7 ha and 3.3 TLU). The strategies that distinguished PDs from non-PDs were allocating land to fodder production, high milk yield kg/cow/day, large herd size and access to extension services. Increasing access to extension and resources (land) raised chances of PDs in fodder conservation. Knowledge of PDs strategies is important for fodder conservation, improve productivity and inform direction of future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary After starting feeding on a new batch of hay, 29 out of 33 horses showed clinical signs of oral ulcerative and bleeding papules and mucous membrane erythema of the gingiva of the mandible within 2–3 days. The results of the complete blood cell count and biochemistry analysis did not yield significant findings in relation to horses affected by ulcerative stomatitis. Swab analyses of the oral mucosa for vesicular stomatitis virus (VS, Type Indiana and Type New Jersey) were negative in all horses (n = 33). Common windgrass with long awns in the deeper stomal‐gingival ulcerations was confirmed through botanical analysis by botanical identification. The hay batch fed to the affected horses was assessed via botanical analysis, finding 15% common windgrass (Apera spica‐venti). After the removal of the contaminated hay batch, full recovery was seen in all horses within 2–6 weeks depending on the severity of the lesions. The grassland from which the hay was harvested belonged to a semi‐natural landscape restored to increase biodiversity and as a protection zone in case of overflow of the river Rhine. In conclusion, feeding forages harvested from these semi‐natural landscapes may be harmful to the health of horses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hay is an important feed material for herbivorous livestock. With the rapid development of animal husbandry in our country, the demand for hay is increasing year by year. When the weather is favorable, sun-drying hay is an economical and effective method of preservation. However, hay baling can sometimes be affected by rainy weather, and damp hay can lead to mold and spoilage, reducing the quality of the hay. Therefore, using hay preservatives is a commonly used and effective method for preserving hay. Suitable hay preservatives can not only effectively prevent mildew and antibacterial, reduce fever and dry matter loss, but also improve the utilization rate of nutrients in hay to a certain extent. The article reviews the bacteriostatic and preservation effects of commonly used hay preservatives, such as propionic acid and propionate, anhydrous ammonia and urea, microbial inoculants and other chemical preservatives on hay, to provide a reference for rational storage and quality assurance of hay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hay transfer is a promising method to restore temperate and subtropical grasslands, but its efficiency may depend on the harvesting timing and amount of hay used. We evaluated effects of harvest date (mid‐spring/November, early summer/December, and mid‐summer/February) and hay quantity (500 and 1000 g/m2) on vegetation cover, species richness, and species composition in an experimental study in subtropical southern Brazil for a period of 2 years. We transfer undried hay from a well‐conserved reference area onto a former grassland site degraded by pine plantations. Hay harvested during mid‐spring and early summer led to higher soil cover and species richness compared to the mid‐summer hay treatment in the first year of the experiment. A drought spell decreased vegetation cover in the second year following the hay transfer, with the mid‐spring hay treatment being the least affected. C3 grasses were more effectively introduced by mid‐spring and early summer hay, in contrast to C4 grasses that were better introduced by mid‐summer hay. Lower quantities of hay tended to lead to higher cover and species richness for all harvest dates. Freshly cut undried hay can be an effective way to reintroduce native species in degraded subtropical grasslands. We conclude that timing of hay collection and the amount of hay used influence vegetation cover and species composition at the restoration site and that multiple harvest dates increase restoration success. The drought in the second year of the experiment illustrates the need to consider the possibility of adverse climatic conditions in restoration planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Common millet, Panicum miliaceum, is one of the world's oldest cultivated crops. This research was aimed at evaluating the quality indices of fodders and substrates for biomethane production from common millet crop. The cultivar 'Marius' of Panicum miliaceum, created at the National Agricultural Research and Development Institute Fundulea, Romania, cultivated in the experimental sector of the "Alexandru Ciubotaru" National Botanical Garden (Institute) MSU Chişinău served as subject of the research. The results revealed that the dry matter of Panicum miliaceum 'Marius' whole plants contained: 10.62% CP, 2.81% EE, 30.96% CF, 47.60% NFE, 8.01 % ash, 0.30% Ca, 0.23% P with 18.21 MJ/kg GE, 9.29 MJ/kg ME and 5.23 MJ/kg NEl. The prepared silage is characterized by pleasant smell and color, the dry matter nutrient and feed energy values were: 11.07% CP, 4.01% EE, 36.65% CF, 38.61% NFE, 9.66 % ash with 18.38 MJ/kg GE, 8.61MJ/kg ME, 4.69 MJ/kg NEl. The common millet hay contained 13.40% CP, 2.37% EE, 32.22% CF, 42.29% NFE, 9.72 % ash with 18.02 MJ/kg GE, 8.66 MJ/kg ME, 4.84 MJ/kg NEl. The common millet substrates for anaerobic digestion for renewable energy production had optimal carbon to nitrogen ratio and the estimated biochemical methane potential reached 303-305 l/kg organic matter. The Panicum miliaceum 'Marius' grain contained 140.0g/kg CP, 47.5 g/kg EE, 137.0 g/kg CF, 627.4 g/kg NFE, 48.0 g/kg ash, 0.9 g/kg Ca and 0.6g/kg P. The cultivar is characterized by optimal productivity, can be used in monoculture or as a component of the mix of annual legume crops, and the harvested green mass may be used as forage for livestock as natural fodder, hay, fermented fodders, also as substrate in biogas reactors via anaerobic digestion for renewable energy production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides information on nutritional strategies for managing gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) in small ruminants such as sheep and goats. GIN infections can have negative impacts on the health and economic well-being of these animals. The article discusses the effects of GIN on nutrition and metabolism and explores various approaches to managing GIN, including pasture management, supplementation, the use of copper oxide wire particles, and the inclusion of plant secondary compounds in the diet. The authors emphasize the importance of taking a holistic approach to nutrition in integrated parasite management programs. They also highlight the benefits of rotational grazing, complementary forages, and protein supplementation in enhancing the resistance and resilience of small ruminants to GIN. The article concludes by calling for further research to evaluate the effectiveness of these nutritional strategies on animal health, performance, and the sustainability of small ruminant production. [Extracted from the article]

This study aims to develop an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) modeling to be trained to forecast the effects of different irrigation water levels and fertilizer doses on the hay yield and some quality traits of herbal parts of Sorghum × Sudan grass hybrid (Sorghum sudanense vs. Sorghum bicolor). The ANN model was developed on the limited field experiments implemented in Bilecik, Turkey, for 2 years in 2021 and 2022. Experiments were conducted in split-plot design with three replications. In the study, three irrigation levels (I100, I60, and I30) were placed in the main parcels, and four fertilizer levels (N0, N50, N100 and N150 kg ha−1) were placed in the sub-parcels. Irrigations were made in three critical periods according to the amount of cumulative evaporation occurring in the Class A Pan. The results showed that irrigation and fertilization are important in terms of yield and quality characteristics. The yield increased depending on the irrigation and fertilization dose, and the highest value was obtained from the I100 × N150 interaction (28.10 t ha−1). The highest protein yield was determined from the I60 × N150 (2.37 t ha−1) interaction, and the Relative Feed Value (RFV) value was determined from the I30 × N150 (92.17) interaction. Irrigation Water Use Efficiency (IWUE) and Water Use Efficiency (WUE) values increased with decreasing irrigation amount, and the highest IWUE was determined from I30 and the highest WUE was determined from I60 irrigation subjects. According to the field experiments and ANN model, the I80 irrigation with 100 kg ha−1 nitrogen doses would suit the feed yield and quality of Sorghum × Sudan grass hybrid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current trends in agricultural intensification lead to degraded grasslands, requiring their restoration through native species reintroduction. Various techniques are available for harvesting seeds from donor sites. However, little is known about their performance in South American C3/C4 mixed grasslands, where studies are scarce. Their particular species composition and phenology, with different flowering periods, require specific harvest strategies. We evaluated mechanical seed harvest in a northern Uruguay grassland, part of Río de la Plata grasslands. Performance of two mechanical harvest methods (seed‐stripper and dry hay) was compared in two harvest seasons (late‐spring and mid‐summer). The evaluation considered the quantity and identity of harvested seeds, and their germination in a greenhouse. Hand collections were made to assess standing seed yield. For each seed mixture, efficiency of mechanical harvests (number of seeds and seedlings compared to hand collection), proportion of germinated seeds, species transfer relative to donor site, and composition were calculated. Results revealed trade‐offs between harvests: seed‐stripper in late‐spring presented low seed collection efficiency (2% for seeds, 5% for seedlings) and species richness (43% transfer), but high seed germination (64%), showing selectivity toward winter species; seed‐stripper in mid‐summer and dry hay in both seasons showed high seed collection efficiency (42–154% for seeds, 26–50% for seedlings) and species richness (65–80% transfer), resembling donor site, albeit lower seed germination (9–20%). Seed‐stripper performance varied between seasons, while dry hay remained consistently effective. These results are pioneering for grassland restoration in Uruguay, encouraging future studies to focus on establishment in the field. [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. We investigated the short- and long-term effects of different forage types supplemented in preweaning dairy calves on growth performance, blood metabolites, rumen fermentation, bacterial community, and milk production during first lactation. A total of 60 healthy 30-d-old female Holstein calves were blocked by birth date and body weight and randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups (n = 20): normal milk and pelleted starter feeding (CON), supplemented with chopped oat hay (OAH; 75.0 g/d per calf [DM basis]), or alfalfa hay (ALF; 75.0 g/d per calf [DM basis]). The forage supplementation started when calves were 30 d old (d 1 of the experimental period) and ended when they were 73 d old (d 44 of the experimental period, when calves were weaned). Milk and feed intakes and fecal consistency scores were recorded daily. Growth performance, rumen fluid, and blood samples were collected biweekly. After weaning, all the calves were integrated with the same barn and diets. After calving, the milk production was recorded daily. During the experimental period, the OAH group had greater solid feed and total DM intakes and greater rumen pH than the CON group (P ≤ 0.04), but had lower forage intake and CP digestibility than the ALF group (P ≤ 0.04). The ALF group had higher rumen pH and blood BHB concentration (P ≤ 0.04), lower fecal score (P = 0.02), and greater ether extract digestibility (P = 0.02) than the CON group. The ALF and OAH groups had lower concentrations of ruminal total VFA (P = 0.01). Still, the ALF group had a greater proportion of acetate and a relative abundance of cellulose degradation-related bacteria (Lachnoclostridium_1 and Oribacterium) and a lower relative abundance of inflammation-related bacteria (Erysipelotrichaceae_UCG-009) in the rumen compared with CON. Interestingly, the average milk production from 6 to 200 DIM was greater in the ALF group (P < 0.01), even though no significant effects were found on the rumen fermentation parameters and blood metabolites at 200 DIM. Generally, alfalfa hay supplementation in preweaning dairy calves had positive effects in the short- and long-term for rumen development, health status, and future milk production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some of the 100 sources that Mary Hays used to compile the six volumes of her Female Biography (1803) may have been borrowed from friends and family members or purchased from local bookshops; but to accomplish her mission, Hays needed access to circulating and subscription libraries, as well as a few public libraries, as proliferated in London in the last quarter of the eighteenth century. An examination of the locations, holdings, and subscription lists of a select group of these libraries provides compelling evidence both to the availability of the sources Hays needed for Female Biography and their accessibility to Hays as a single woman. The results of this study reveal the strategic importance of her move to central London and the social, religious, and literary connections she developed as an independent professional writer between 1795 and 1803. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Northwest A & F University - Natural Science Edition is the property of Editorial Department of Journal of Northwest A&F University (Natural Science Edition) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study explores the dynamics of human–animal relationships within the virtual farming game Hay Day and actual pet-keeping practice, juxtaposing interactions with actual and virtual animals in everyday life. Drawing from ethnographic data, the research employs the concept of 'assemblage' to analyse these relationships in a nuanced manner and examine interconnected practices between the actual and the virtual. This study demonstrates how the player navigates the desire to interact with animals under various constraints and how these intersections construct the player's subjectivity towards animals. This study concentrates on a single case of an Indonesian player. Its main goal is to reveal new insights rather than ensure generalizability, providing a basis for further research. This research analytically and empirically contributes to the gaming discourse on human–animal relationships by incorporating virtual animals and calls for the analytical involvement of players who live on the periphery of gaming discourse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article titled "Selva" recounts the author's personal journey through the Amazon rainforest with her partner Diego. The author expresses a deep admiration for the abundant plant life and diverse wildlife found in the jungle. During her exploration, she encounters a manatee and its calf, which prompts her to reflect on her own desire to have children in the future. The author also expresses a profound appreciation for the rain, which brings her a sense of liberation and happiness. The article concludes with the author reflecting on her experience and finding contentment. The text describes a personal experience of the narrator in a jungle campsite. They describe the beauty of the sunset, the sounds of nature, and the intoxicating fragrance of orchids. The narrator feels a sense of spiritual awakening and a newfound appreciation for life. They are drawn to the moon reflecting in the water and feel a strong connection to nature. The narrator decides to swim in the river and eventually transforms into a manatee, feeling a sense of freedom and belonging in the water. They embrace their new form and leave behind their human memories. The text ends with the narrator being joined by other male manatees, who recognize and accept them. [Extracted from the article]

Abstract Bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.) is one of the primary perennial forages in the southeastern USA. Newer hybrid cultivars have superior production and nutritive value compared to common ecotypes. However, there are many challenges facing bermudagrass production in the region. First, the bermudagrass stem maggot (BSM; Atherigona reversura Villeneuve) has severely damaged bermudagrass throughout the region. Strategically timed pyrethroid applications significantly reduce adult BSM populations, but efforts are needed to develop integrated pest management plans. Second, an increasing number of producers are noting challenges with green‐up following winter dormancy. This may be attributed to disease, unbalanced soil fertility, and weed pressure. Perhaps one of the most limiting factors for continued production is the deficit of sprigs and trained personnel to sprig hybrid bermudagrasses. This research is critically important as the need for cold‐tolerant bermudagrass is increasing as tall fescue (Lolium arundinaceum (Schreb.) S. J. Darbyshire) is declining due to changes in temperature and precipitation throughout the northern parts of the region. Plant breeders are investigating hybrid bermudagrass at latitudes >35° with respect to freeze or cold tolerance. Despite the many challenges facing hybrid bermudagrass in the southeastern USA, researchers are working to ensure its persistence, productivity, and availability for the future.

The experiment aimed to screen for high-yielding hybrid combinations of male-sterile alfalfa lines. A total of 10 hybrid combinations were prepared with one alfalfa male sterile line (MS-GN) as the female parent and 10 excellent alfalfa plants (Alfalfa 354-05, Cavalier-02, Gannong NO. 8-04, Alfalfa 440-02, Queen-25, Alfalfa 319-01, Longdong Alfalfa-06, Alfalfa 343-02, Algonkin-19, and Suntory-74) as the male parents, and the numbers were M×1, M×2, M×3, M×4, M×5, M×6, M×7, M×8, M×9, and M×10. The high-yield hybrid combinations were screened by measuring the plant height, stem diameter, primary branch number, fresh yields and hay yields of the F1 generation of the hybrid combination for two consecutive years, combined with the analysis of general compounding ability. The results showed that M×4 had the highest two-year average plant height, which was significantly higher than that of M×7, M×3, M×5, M×8 and M×10 (P<0.05). The two-year average stem diameter of M×6 was the highest, and the two-year average primary branch number of M×1 was the highest. M×1 and M×6 had the highest two-year average hay yield of 2.02 kg/plant, while M×4 and M×1 had the highest two-year average hay yield of 0.60 kg/plant. Plant height, stem diameter, and primary branch number were positively correlated with grass yield, and plant height and primary branch number were significantly or extremely correlated with fresh yield and hay yield (P<0.05 or P<0.01). The cluster analysis of yield traits divided the hybrid combinations into four categories, among which the combinations with better yield traits were M×1, M×6, and M×4, which were consistent with the results of the comprehensive analysis of grey correlation degree. In the general compounding ability (GCA) effect value, M×4 had the highest plant height, M×6 had the highest stem diameter, M×1 had the highest number of first-order branches, M×1 and M×6 had the highest yield, and M×1 and M×4 had the highest hay yield. The results showed that M×1, M×4, and M×6 had better comprehensive performance in yield traits among the hybrid combinations, and they were high-yield hybrid combinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment aimed to determine the optimal harvesting period for triticale in Northwestern He'nan Province, and to study the effects of the mowing period on the agronomic traits, yield, and nutritional quality of different triticale varieties. The experiment used six varieties as experimental materials: Zhong Si 3366 (ZS3366), Zhong Si 1640 (ZS1640), Zhong Si 1257 (ZS1257), Zhong Si 1048 (ZS1048), Shi Da No. 1 (SD1), and Gan Nong No. 2 (GN2). Four harvesting treatments were set up: Jointing stage (JNT), booting stage (HD), flowering stage (FLW), and milky stage (MLK), with the JNT treatment involving a second harvest of the regrowth at the milky stage. The results showed that as the growth period progressed, the plant height and dry hay yield continued to increase overall, while fresh hay yield first increased and then decreased. The fresh hay yield was in the order of HD > JNT > FLW > MLK, and the dry hay yield was in the order of MLK > FLW > HD > JNT. As the growth period progressed, the nutritional quality of the ryegrass decreased. Compared with JNT, the crude protein content and relative feed value of MLK decreased, while the content of acid detergent fiber and neutral detergent fiber increased. The crude protein content was extremely positively correlated with moisture and feed value (P<0.01), and extremely negatively correlated with the content of acid detergent fiber and neutral detergent fiber (P<0.01). The study indicates that SD1 has a higher comprehensive evaluation at different harvesting stages compared to other varieties, and the plant height, dry hay yield, and crude protein yield during the FLW stage are all higher than those of other varieties. Considering both yield and nutritional quality, the optimal harvesting period for triticale in the Northwestern He'nan Province is the flowering stage, and the variety SD1 has outstanding comprehensive traits, making it suitable for planting and promotion in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the performance of isotropic and anisotropic diffuse models to estimate the total solar energy received on flat-plate collectors fixed on dual-axis trackers. These estimations are applied at twelve sites selected in both hemispheres with different terrain and environmental conditions. The diffuse (or transposition) models used in this study are the isotropic Liu-Jordan (L&J), Koronakis (KOR), Badescu (BAD), and Tian (TIA), and the anisotropic Hay (HAY), Reindl (REI), Klucher (KLU), Skartveit and Olseth (S&O), and Steven and Unsworth (S&U). These models were chosen because of their simplicity in the calculations and minimum number of input values. The results show that a single transposition model is not efficient for all sites; therefore, the most appropriate models are selected for each site under all, clear, intermediate, and overcast conditions in skies. On the other hand, an increase in the ground albedo in the vicinity of the solar installation can increase the annual inclined solar availability on a two-axis tracker by at least 9% on average. Further, a linear dependence of the annual inclined solar energy on the variation of the ground albedo was found. Also, a linear relationship exists between the annual diffuse-fraction and cloud-modification factor values at the 12 sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study assessed the influence of the preceding crop (crotalaria or corn) on the bromatological, digestibility and microbiological aspects of the EMBRAPA 139 black oat hay (Avena strigosa) cultivar. A randomized block design was used, with subplots divided according to time, whereby the preceding crop (crotalaria or corn) was allocated to the main plot and hay storage times (baling, 30, 60 and 90 days of storage) to the subplots, with five repetitions. Crotalaria as predecessor resulted in lower indigestible fiber and higher protein contents in black oat hay, both in acid detergent, as well as higher pH. Corn as the preceding crop provided better hay digestibility due to lower neutral detergent insoluble protein content and higher in vitro neutral detergent fiber digestibility. The preceding crop did not significantly affect the drying time of forage and the microorganism population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Foco (Interdisciplinary Studies Journal) is the property of Revista Foco and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Although evidence is sporadic it is becoming clear that haymaking and hay meadow management were likely indispensable elements of practices related to animal husbandry during the Roman period. As large towns begin to emerge, success in breeding large livestock such as cattle and horses would have required good quality fodder. Yet, how we distinguish fodder or other animal associated plant remains in the archaeological record can be problematic for many reasons. This paper explores this issue through the context of Roman Mursa, located in modern day Osijek, Croatia. Two pits dating to c. AD133, contained relatively large quantities of grassland and wet ground species, such as Trifolium/Melilotus sp. Prunella vulgaris and the grasses Poa sp. and Phleum sp., as well as chaff and other remains, such as dung, eggshells, and fish scales. By examining the proportion of species grouped into habitat types, we see that the composition of sample SU391 is indictive of hay meadows and could indicate nearby animal stabling in the centre of the early Roman colony. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of our study was to evaluate the effect of endophyte-infected tall fescue (E+) seeds intake on liver tissue transcriptome in growing Angus × Simmental steers and heifers through RNA-seq analysis. Normal weaned calves (~8 months old) received either endophyte-free tall fescue (E-; n = 3) or infected tall fescue (E+; n = 6) seeds for a 30-d period. The diet offered was ad libitum bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) hay combined with a nutritional supplement of 1.61 kg (DM basis) of E+ or E- tall fescue seeds, and 1.61 kg (DM basis) of energy/protein supplement pellets for a 30-d period. Dietary E+ tall fescue seeds were included in a rate of 20 μg of ergovaline/kg BW/day. Liver tissue was individually obtained through biopsy at d 30. After preparation and processing of the liver samples for RNA sequencing, we detected that several metabolic pathways were activated (i.e., upregulated) by the consumption of E+ tall fescue. Among them, oxidative phosphorylation, ribosome biogenesis, protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum and apoptosis, suggesting an active mechanism to cope against impairment in normal liver function. Interestingly, hepatic protein synthesis might increase due to E+ consumption. In addition, there was upregulation of "thermogenesis" KEGG pathway, showing a possible increase in energy expenditure in liver tissue due to consumption of E+ diet. Therefore, results from our study expand the current knowledge related to liver metabolism of growing beef cattle under tall fescue toxicosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary objective of haymaking is to dry forage adequately to inhibit the growth of undesirable microbes and halt residual plant enzymatic activity that causes nutrient losses. During the field and storage phases of haymaking, the environment, management practices, and other factors influence the extent of dry matter losses. This review discusses these factors and the strategies that have been developed to mitigate nutrient losses. A major emphasis was placed on hay microbiome dynamics, as it has been scarcely studied despite its importance on nutrient losses during storage and harvest, especially under humid conditions. The effects of cutting height, mower type, and swath manipulation on soil contamination were discussed. Also, the impact of environmental conditions and swath manipulation on wilting time was analysed for humid and arid conditions. Special attention was given to design improvements in harvesting equipment to reduce wilting time and field losses. Furthermore, we assessed the nutrient losses during storage caused by microbial and residual plant enzymatic activity resulting from excessive moisture at baling or re‐introduced moisture during storage. The spoilage extent during storage depends on bale moisture, size, density, shape, wrapping, forage type, and storage facilities. A Venn diagram analysis showed that each phase of haymaking process has a unique microbiome and that certain fungal and bacterial genera could be shared across more than one hay production phase. To take corrective actions, hay producers need to be aware of the increased susceptibility to nutrient losses associated with particular field and storage practices, environmental conditions, and forage types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sainfoin (Onobrychis sativa L.) is a valuable forage plant that is drought-resistant and has good nutritional value. However, for many years, various rootworms that damaged sainfoin have caused a decrease in its cultivation areas, and a variety resistant to rootworms has yet to be developed in scientific research. Local populations are of great importance to studies aiming to one day develop resistant varieties. This research aimed to determine the hay yield, forage quality, morphological characteristics, and rootworm infestation of local sainfoin genotypes from six villages in the Erzurum Province of Türkiye. The research took place in 2017, and forage yield, forage quality, some plant characteristics, and the rootworm infestation of local sainfoin genotypes were examined between 2018 and 2021. According to the data obtained from the study, yield, forage quality, morphological characteristics, and the rootworm infestation of local sainfoin genotypes showed significant changes according to year and genotype. Sainfoin is a high-yielding crop in the first three years after sowing; the dry hay yield decreases after this period. This study revealed that local sainfoin genotypes have a strong potential for developing new varieties. For this reason, breeding should be initiated using populations from Aribahçe and Göztepe, which have high yields, and Güneyköy, where rootworm infestation is not found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With a growing export and local market, sheep farming is critical to the economy of smallholder farmers; however, indigenous sheep breeds usually exhibit low carcass output and live weight due to nutritional constraints. The study aimed to investigate the impact of supplementing local sheep with dawri‐damaa leaf meal (DDLM) on their performance, carcass characteristics, and profitability when fed native grass hay. The research used a randomized complete block design (RCBD) to administer four feeding treatments (T1, T2, T3, and T4 at 0%, 30%, 50%, and 70% DDLM, respectively) to 20 local uncastrated male lambs having an average 23.72 ± 0.73 kg body weight and average age of 11.72 ± 0.74 months. Greater doses of DDLM in the diet resulted in greater average daily gain (ADG) of 51.4–83.8 g/day and feed conversion efficiency (FCE) of 0.066–0.089 in lambs, compared to 15.0 g/day ADG and 0.025 FCE in lambs under control diet (T1). Additionally, the lambs had increased slaughter body weight (SBW), empty body weight (EBW), and hot carcass weight (HCW) in T4 and T3 compared to other treatments (p <.05). There were no significant differences in dressing percentages (DPs) across any treatment group. The study also discussed the economic viability of supplementing with DDLM, suggesting that feeding 70% daily dry matter of DDLM at 2.5% live weight might be beneficial depending on availability, access, and cost factors. In conclusion, feeding DDLM up to 70% has improved the performance of sheep and is economically feasible. Further research might be required to discover whether such levels of inclusion are harmful and apply different processing methods for feeding animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sainfoin species (Onobrychis spp.) have been employed for centuries as an essential forage for ruminant animals, both for grazing and as hay. The seeds produced by sainfoin have also been investigated as an animal feed source and were indicated to be a particularly protein‐rich supplement for monogastric animals. This study explores the effects of two sainfoin seed inclusion rates in rat diets compared to a control diet, focusing on blood biochemical parameters and a comprehensive histopathological evaluation of multiple organ systems. Thus, we provide a novel contribution to the body of evidence investigating sainfoin seeds as a protein supplement in monogastric animal diets. In this 21‐day experiment, seven rats each were assigned to the control group, a 5% sainfoin seed group, and a 10% sainfoin seed group. The control group received standard feed and water; the second group received feed with 5% sainfoin seeds; and the third group received feed with 10% sainfoin seeds. At the experiment's end, necropsies and evaluations were conducted. Histopathological exams revealed normal organ structures in all 21 samples, regardless of the group. Blood analysis showed statistically significant decreases in creatine, ALT, P, Ca, and Mg levels in the sainfoin seed groups compared to the control group, with most values nearing reference levels, suggesting potential benefits. Notably, no adverse effects were observed when sainfoin seeds were included at 5% and 10% in the rat feed. These findings contribute to a growing body of research investigating the inclusion of sainfoin seeds in monogastric animal diets, which is a foundational component of assessing sainfoin's potential as a novel pulse crop for human consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: A study was conducted to quantify the performance differences of the near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) calibration models developed with different degrees of hay sample preparations. Methods: A total of 227 imported alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) and another 360 imported timothy (Phleum pratense L.) hay samples were used to develop calibration models for nutrient value parameters such as moisture, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, crude protein, and in vitro dry matter digestibility. Spectral data of hay samples prepared by milling into 1-mm particle size or unground were separately regressed against the wet chemistry results of the abovementioned parameters. Results: The performance of the developed NIRS calibration models was evaluated based on R², standard error, and ratio percentage deviation (RPD). The models developed with ground hay were more robust and accurate than those with unground hay based on calibration model performance indexes such as R² (coefficient of determination), standard error, and RPD. Although the R² of calibration models was mainly greater than 0.90 across the feed value indexes, the R² of cross-validations was much lower. The R² of cross-validation varies depending on feed value indexes, which ranged from 0.61 to 0.81 in alfalfa, and from 0.62 to 0.95 in timothy. Estimation of feed values in imported hay can be achievable by the calibrated NIRS. However, the NIRS calibration models must be improved by including a broader range of imported hay samples in the modeling. Conclusion: Although the analysis accuracy of NIRS was substantially higher when calibration models were developed with ground samples, less sample preparation will be more advantageous for achieving rapid delivery of hay sample analysis results. Therefore, further research warrants investigating the level of sample preparations compromising analysis accuracy by NIRS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]