Animal Feed Research Articles

Renewable Ruse: Bioenergy Development in North Carolina’s Coastal Plains

Rural communities in eastern North Carolina are responding to the emergence of bioenergy development as an extension of environmental injustices, rather than sustainable solutions to climate change as presented by state and industry actors. We examine how biomass and biogas development entrench logics of extraction, rather than transition, as they are built as extensions of pre-existing concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) in a landscape prone to climatic fluctuations. Using a polyvocal approach to knowledge co-production that builds from multi-year collaborative ethnography, the co-authored text demonstrates a commitment to the value of environmental justice (EJ) leaders’ knowledge—to advance environmental analytics. We argue that despite its claims, bioenergy operates as a ruse of renewable energy: it is a technological sleight of hand, that deepens rather than mitigates exposure to socio-ecological harm. Discursively hinged to sustainability claims, biomass and biogas attempt to signify a temporal, moral, and technological breakaway toward a different kind of techno-social future when, in fact, there is no real rupture from the well-established export-driven, extractivist logics of production.

Optimizing Sorghum for California: A Multi-Location Evaluation of Biomass Yield, Feed Quality, and Biofuel Feedstock Potential

Sorghum cultivars, particularly those used for forage and biomass, present significant potential as drought-resistant crops suitable for animal feed and biofuel production. This study evaluated 59 sorghum hybrids over five years (2019–2023) across three University of California research farm locations in the Central Valley: Kearney REC (KARE), West Side REC (WSREC), and Davis. The primary aim was to identify genotypes that exhibit high yield and stability across diverse environments in California, which is crucial for meeting the state’s significant feed needs associated with dairy operations and animal production. The evaluation focused on biomass yields, forage quality traits such as Relative Feed Quality (RFQ) and milk yield per ton (milk/ton), and biofuel-relevant chemical compositions like Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF) and starch. A multi-trait stability index was employed to pinpoint superior genotypes that combine high yield with desirable quality traits. Results indicated significant genotypic, environmental, and genotype-by-environment (GxE) interaction effects for all traits except fat and water-soluble sugars. Eight hybrids were notable for maintaining high and stable biomass yields across different locations. Additionally, high fat and starch content were found to correlate with improved milk/ton potential, while lower fiber content (ADF, NDF) was associated with enhanced RFQ. Specifically, nine hybrids were identified as optimal for dairy forage due to their combination of high yield, RFQ, and milk/ton. Furthermore, distinct hybrids were identified for first-generation (starch-based) and second-generation (NDF-based) biofuel strategies. Three hybrids stood out as having desirable traits for both feed and biofuel applications, underscoring their versatility. This study highlights the utility of a multi-trait stability index in selecting superior sorghum genotypes for specific trait combinations. The identified candidates for forage and biofuel use, especially the multipurpose varieties, offer valuable insights that can aid growers and industry stakeholders in developing more sustainable and versatile sorghum production systems in California. Findings from this study contribute significantly to the development of more resilient sorghum production systems. By identifying hybrids that excel in both yield and quality across various environments, this research supports future cropping decisions aimed at enhancing water use efficiency and drought resilience in sorghum cultivation. These advancements are crucial for maintaining competitive dairy operations and advancing biofuel production in the face of climate change-induced challenges.

β-Arbutin and cisplatin: A combined approach to modulating apoptosis, cell viability, and migration in bladder cancer cells

One of the preferred treatments for bladder cancer, one of the most common cancers worldwide, is cisplatin-based chemotherapy. Since most tumor cells show cisplatin resistance, it is very important to discover new agents without adverse side effects. β-arbutin, a hydroquinone-β-D-glucopyranoside, has biological properties such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer, and is a phytochemical widely used as a skin whitener. In this study, β-arbutin was purified from the animal feed plant Onobrychis buhseana Boiss. (sainfoin). The study aimed to investigate the combined effects of cisplatin, a clinically used chemotherapeutic agent, and β-arbutin on HT-1376 bladder cancer cells for apoptosis, cell viability, and migration. In the study, after HT-1376 bladder cancer cells were cultured, optimum β-arbutin and cisplatin doses were determined on HT-1376 cells using the WST-1 test. To determine the apoptotic and migratory effects, flow cytometry and wound healing assays were performed. In HT-1376 cells, β-Arbutin led to greater apoptotoic and migratory effects when used alone and combined with Cisplatin (p < 0.0001 for apoptotic and migratory effects treated with β-Arbutin alone, p < 0.0001 for apoptotic and migratory effects when combined with Cisplatin). As a result, it can be suggested that β-arbutin may be a good drug candidate for treating bladder cancer.

Comparison of frameworks for defining land occupation considering on-farm and off-farm feed production on Italian dairy farms.

Land occupation (LO) is one of the most frequently discussed aspects of livestock competition with agricultural activities. commonly In this study the area needed to produce purchased feeds for animal nutrition, was used to estimate the off-farm land occupation of dairy farms, allowing for a precise calculation of the total land occupation requirement for milk production (on-farm plus off-farm LO, expressed in m2 per unit of standardized milk). We use 4 approaches (LO1, LO2, LO3A and LO3B) to calculate the off-farm land used for milk production on dairy farms and apply them to 14 dairy farms in northern Italy as a case study. The LO1 used mass allocation of each purchased product between the fraction of DM yield of each product (main, by-products, and crop residues) derived from the whole crop. This procedure was considered as the reference. The LO2 considered only the main product as the driver of land use without considering by-products. LO3A and LO3B converted all the purchased feeds into energy, protein, and fiber equivalents. LO1 was accurate, even though it was time-consuming, whereas procedures of LO3A and LO3B showed comparable values with easier required input data. When Total LO was considered (on-farm and off-farm using LO1), the average surface to produce milk resulted in 1.47 m2/kg FPCM, however the off-farm LO1 was 0.76 m2/kg FPCM (±0.24 m2/kg). This large variability indicates that LO largely depend on farm management and adopted animal feeding strategies. Moreover, half of the milk production was linked to the purchased feeds. We found positive correlations between all off-farm LO approaches and N surplus (r = 0.45 to r = 0.73), supporting previous studies suggesting that concentrated animal agriculture, in which the fulfillment of the animal's needs has been delegated to purchased feeds, is the main source of nitrogen surplus on farmlands. LO per unit of production can be reduced-by increasing on-farm feed production, particularly protein components and, to a lesser extent, by valorizing by-products, while not increasing the on-farm N surplus and carbon footprint.

Improving the Quality of Fermented Tofu and Coconut Pulp Waste Using Saccharomyces Cerevisiae

The aim of the study was to assess the quality of tofu waste and coconut waste that had been fermented using baker's yeast to be used as animal feed. Tofu pulp waste was obtained from a tofu factory located in Oesapa Village, Kelapa Lima Subdistrict, Kupang City, while coconut pulp was left over from coconut milk processing in households and stalls in Kupang city and surrounding areas. The research method used direct experimental method and duration of fermentation time through prosimat analysis. The results of this study were tested using Student's t test with treatment R1 (tofu pulp waste and coconut pulp fermented for 12 hours), R2 (tofu pulp waste and coconut pulp fermented for 24 hours) and R3 (tofu pulp waste and coconut pulp fermented for 48 hours). The variables studied were changes in the nutritional content of dry matter (BK), organic matter (BO), crude protein (PK), crude fat. The results showed that the treatment had a significant effect on the research variables (P&lt;0.05) and fermentation using baker's yeast. The conclusion of the study results shows that the fermentation of tofu pulp and baker's yeast fermented coconut pulp can significantly increase nutrition, so that it can be used as an ingredient in animal feed

Evaluating Black Soldier FLY (Hermetia illucens) Frass and Larval Sheddings in the Production of a Quality Compost

Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) is well-known for having a high protein and lipid content during its larval stage and is cultivated for animal feed. Rearing Black Soldier Fly larvae (BSFL) produces byproducts known as frass and larval sheddings in large volumes with limited applications. Therefore, there is a need to identify viable sustainable management strategies to prevent potential environmental issues associated with their accumulation. Accordingly, the purpose of this study was to evaluate BSFL frass and larval sheddings as viable ingredients in composts that utilize additional nitrogen feedstocks. Four experimental compost piles (22.7 m3) with different ratios of BSFL frass and sheddings were developed based on previous research; two piles included 25% frass, whereas the other two included 30% frass. Across these piles, the inclusion of wood chips, food waste, and livestock manure varied to determine the best proportions for compost. The compost piles were maintained for five months, including a curing phase. After curing, samples from each pile were collected to analyze their pH, macro- and micro-nutrients, particle size, stability, and maturity. The findings indicated that the pH levels (7.1–8.1) and carbon-to-nitrogen ratios (10.40–13.20) were within the optimal ranges for all piles. The phosphorus levels (0.75–1.30%) of each pile exceeded typical ranges, likely due to the high phosphorus content of the frass itself. The moisture content varied widely (24.5–51.7%), with some piles falling below optimal levels. Stability and maturity tests yielded mixed results, with some piles demonstrating continued decomposition activity. Overall, the findings indicated that inclusion rates of 25–30% of BSFL frass and sheddings produced compost with generally favorable characteristics when high nitrogen feedstocks were also incorporated into the compost piles. These findings align with those from previous research and highlight both the potential and challenges of incorporating BSFL frass into compost production.

EFFECTS OF AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF Andira inermis STEM BARK ON SOME REPRODUCTIVE PARAMETERS OF MALE WISTAR RATS

Andira inermis stem bark has been used by herbal practitioners in the treatment of many ailments. Its Pharmacological activities include Anti-oxidant activity, haematological activities, hypoglycaemic activity and antiplasmodia activities. This study seeks to evaluate the effect of aqueous stem bark extract of Andira inermis on some gonadal hormones, sperm count and sperm motility. Thirty-two male Wistar rats weighing 100-120g were randomized into Four (4) groups consisting eight (8) rats each. The animals were allowed to undergo acclimatization for 14days. Animals in group 1 served as the control, group 2, 3 and 4 were the treatment groups. Group 1 received free animal feed and water. Group 2, 3 and 4 received 100, 250 and 500mg/kg aqueous extract of Andira inermis stem bark administered orally daily for 90days. Twenty-four hours after the last administration, rats were sacrificed and cardiac puncture was used to collect the blood for centrifugation. The extract produced a significant (P&lt;0.05) increase in serum testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone, and luteinizing hormone respectively at 100mg/kg body weight but had no significant effect on luteinizing hormone and testosterone hormone at 250mg/kg and 500mg/kg bodyweight compared to normal control. At 250mg/kg and 500mg/kg treatment, follicle stimulating hormone was significantly decreased compared to control. Sperm counts decreased significantly from 22.13±0.53million/ml to 13.00±1.16 million/ml and sperm motility from 11.25±0.41 million/ml to 8.00 ± 0.59 million/ml after treatment. Data was expressed as the mean ± SEM. Statistical comparisons between various treatment groups was determined using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA).

Biofeed through bioconversion process with the engineered methyl-microbium buryatense strain 5GBC1-RO1

This study presents a novel approach to mitigate methane emissions while simultaneously addressing the growing demand for sustainable animal feed through the development of an engineered methanotrophic strain, Methylomicrobium buryatense 5GB1C-RO1. Utilizing advanced genetic engineering techniques, including CRISPR/Cas9 and horizontal gene transfer, we have optimized the ribulose monophosphate (RuMP) cycle and enhanced oxidase activity in this strain. The bioconversion process is facilitated by innovative bioreactor designs, including Two-Phase Partitioning Bioreactors (TPPBs) and Inverse Membrane Bioreactors (IMBRs), which significantly improve methane solubility and mass transfer. Through metabolic flux analysis and computational modeling, we have achieved high biomass yields and efficient methane utilization. The resulting biofeed demonstrates a superior nutritional profile, with optimized macronutrient content and essential components. This integrated approach not only contributes to greenhouse gas mitigation but also offers a promising solution for sustainable animal nutrition. Our findings suggest that the 5GB1C-RO1 strain and associated bioprocesses have the potential to revolutionize both environmental protection and agricultural sustainability.

The Dynamics of Laying Hens Business in Sumberjo Village, Kademangan District, Blitar Regency, East Java, Indonesia During the Covid-19 Pandemic

The purpose of this study was to determine the dynamics of the laying hens business during the Covid-19 pandemic in Sumberjo Village, Kademangan District, Blitar Regency, East Java, Indonesia. The method used in this study is a descriptive quantitative approach with survey techniques using questionnaires. Respondents used in this study were 35 egg laying breeders. Determination of respondents in this study was carried out by purposive sampling. Data collection in this study was carried out through observation and surveys using questionnaires. The results of statistical analysis showed that the average farmers in Sumberjo Village, Kademangan District were small breeders where 28.57% had a junior high school education. In their business activities, 73% of respondents replace livestock by maintaining DOC and 66% of respondents use factory feed supplied by poultry shops in Blitar Regency. During the Covid-19 pandemic, supplying animal feed and selling eggs became difficult and business profits were difficult to obtain. A score for the difficulty level of feed supply was 485.00; difficulty in selling chicken eggs was 491.00 and difficulty in earning profits in the laying hens business was 500.00. The conclusion of this study is that there are dynamics in the laying hens business in Sumberjo Village, Kademangan District during the Covid-19 pandemic where there are difficulties in feed supply, egg sales and achieving business profits.

Alternative Uses of Fermented Wheat Bran: A Mini Review

Bran is a by-product primarily derived from the milling of grains, notably wheat and rice. It is rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals yet often remains underutilized in its raw form. This raw material is abundant and readily available, offering significant potential for value-added applications. In its unprocessed state, bran boasts a complex chemical composition that includes proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates. However, it also contains antinutritional components such as phytic acid and enzyme inhibitors, which may limit its nutritional efficacy. Through further processing or storage, these components can be transformed to enhance their antioxidant properties and overall nutritional value. Bran is used in both animal feed and human food applications, though its use is often hindered by its high fiber content and antinutritional factors. To maximize its utility, innovative processing techniques are required to improve its digestibility and nutrient availability. Fermentation presents a viable method for enhancing the nutritional profile of bran. This process typically employs microorganisms such as bacteria, yeast, or fungi to break down complex compounds, thereby increasing the bioavailability of nutrients. After fermentation, bran exhibits improved chemical composition and nutritional value. The process reduces antinutritional components while enriching the bran with beneficial compounds like amino acids and probiotics. Utilizing fermented bran in animal feed offers numerous advantages, including enhanced digestive health, improved nutrient absorption, and augmented disease resistance. It serves as a sustainable feed alternative that supports livestock growth while aligning with ecological goals. The processing of bran through fermentation not only maximizes its nutritional potential but also contributes to sustainable agricultural practices by reducing waste. Future research should focus on optimizing fermentation techniques and exploring novel applications in both feed and food industries to fully realize the benefits of this versatile by-product.

Analysis of the Factors Influencing Soybean Demand in North Sumatra Province

The goal of the food diversification program is to encourage Indonesians to expand their dietary choices beyond rice. This initiative is not meant to replace rice but to shift consumption patterns, promoting the inclusion of a broader range of foods. Indonesia has a wealth of agricultural products, such as soybeans, corn, and potatoes, that can serve as staple foods and support the diversification effort. Given the limited purchasing power of many Indonesians, the program emphasizes food products that are both highly nutritious and relatively affordable for the general population. Legumes, including soybeans, peanuts, winged bean seeds, and koro beans, are commonly used to meet dietary needs. Among these, soybeans are particularly important as a rich source of vegetable protein. The public has increasingly turned to soybean-based products such as tofu, tempeh, soy sauce, and soy milk to boost their intake of plant-based protein. Additionally, soybeans are versatile, serving not only as food for direct consumption but also as ingredients in animal feed for poultry and fish.

Harnessing Lignin Nanoparticles for Sustainable Enzyme Immobilization: Current Paradigms and Future Innovations.

Lignin, a vital plant component, is key in providing structural integrity and is the second most abundant biopolymer in nature. The growing interest in sustainable and efficient biocatalysis has driven the exploration of lignin nanoparticles (LNPs) as a promising platform for enzyme immobilization. Given lignin's abundance and structural role in plants, converting it into nanoparticles offers a potential eco-friendly alternative to traditional supports. This comprehensive review explores recent advancements in using LNPs for enzyme immobilization, focusing on loading techniques, immobilization efficiency, enzyme activity levels, and various factors that affect the performance of enzymes immobilized on LNPs. The review also addresses the primary challenges associated with enzyme immobilization on LNPs and discusses future innovations in this field. Adopting eco-friendly immobilization platforms based on LNPs is expected to have broad applications in industries like food, pharmaceuticals, animal feed, and detergents. However, there is still potential to customize LNPs further and develop novel immobilization techniques to leverage their benefits fully. By understanding the properties and advantages of these nanostructured lignin supports, researchers can design and create innovative nanocatalysts for various industrial applications.

Serang City Environment Community Education About Garbage Banks and Making Garbage Disposal

Human production and consumption processes contribute to global waste problems. The 3R concept (reduce, reuse, and recycle) can help reduce the amount of waste disposed of and generate added value for society. Non-organic waste can be recycled or used for crafts. Organic waste can be collected and processed into biogas, animal feed, or compost. It is very important to conduct socialization and community education to give people an understanding of how to properly manage and process waste. Socialization and community education can be done by creating media such as brochures, pamphlets, and posters about waste management; providing counseling to community groups; inviting people to sort waste into various types; and providing different trash bins for organic and non-organic waste. The results of the activities carried out in the Kaujon Baru Environment with residents of Serang City showed that knowledge about waste sorting is very important, and awareness of how to distinguish organic and inorganic waste must start at home. By providing trash bins that can distinguish organic and non-organic waste, people can become more accustomed to sorting garbage and be more aware of how to process organic waste.

Unravelling Yield and Yield-Related Traits in Soybean Using GGE Biplot and Path Analysis

Soybean (Glycine max) is a vital crop for food, animal feed, and industrial products. However, its yield performance is significantly affected by genotype-by-environment interaction (GEI), which complicates the selection of high-yielding, stable varieties. This study aimed to evaluate the yield performance and stability of 12 elite soybean varieties across five major production areas in Uganda using GGE biplot and path analysis. The varieties were planted in a randomized complete block design with three replications over two consecutive seasons. Results revealed significant differences in grain yield among the varieties, locations, and their interactions (p &lt; 0.001). The highest-yielding varieties were Maksoy 5N (979 kg ha−1), Maksoy 4N (978 kg ha−1), Maksoy 3N (930 kg ha−1), and Signal (930 kg ha−1). GGE biplot analysis grouped the locations into two mega-environments, with the Maksoy varieties exhibiting greater yield stability compared to Seed Co. varieties. Path analysis showed that traits such as the number of lower internodes, central internode length, and filled pods had the highest positive direct effects on grain yield. This study provides insights into soybean breeding in tropical environments, highlighting traits that can be targeted to improve yield and stability. The findings offer a framework for breeding programs in Uganda and similar agro-ecological regions, promoting more resilient and productive soybean varieties. This study also illustrated the potential advantages of employing more complex mathematical techniques like path analysis to uncover yield and yield-related traits in soybean breeding programs.

Deciphering Seasonal Patterns in Animal Feeding: A Mechanistic Approach to Analyzing the Restricted Growth of Iberian Pigs

The growth of animals is influenced by various factors including genetics, nutrition, and environmental conditions. This study focuses on understanding the traditional growth phases of Iberian pigs raised in semi-free-range environments prior to the finishing period within the Mediterranean forest. Using a comprehensive dataset of 5329 pigs, we evaluated the abilities of several mathematical models to predict growth patterns during the early growing and pre-finishing phases. The Gompertz model demonstrated the best fit for the age–weight relationship, indicating its effectiveness in characterizing growth dynamics in these animals. A novel compartmental mathematical model was developed, which integrates age-based estimations for certain body components (protein, water, and ash) with linear body weight predictions for fat. Our findings indicate that this mechanistic model serves as an effective tool for understanding and optimizing management strategies and enhancing growth predictions in traditional pig breeds.

The Influence of Sowing Rate and Foliar Fertilization on the Yield of Some Triticale Varieties in the Context of Climate Change in Northwest Romania

Triticale is recognized worldwide because of its high protein and lysine contents, high production capacity, and adaptability to biotic and abiotic stress conditions, these qualities being taken over from wheat and rye. Triticale is widely used in various fields, such as animal feed in various forms, medicine, baking, beer and alcohol brewing, cellulose, bioethanol industry, and many others. Thus, the demand for triticale grain is increasing, and this has led to the research and improvement in culture technology to obtain superior products, both quantitatively and qualitatively. The purpose of this study was to identify the best varieties of triticale cultivated in the northwest of Romania, sown in different plots, and fertilized on the ground. Additionally, this study was carried out over a period of two years at the Livada Agricultural Research and Development Station, Satu Mare County. This study was located on acidic soil with a pH between 5.19 and 6.65 and a humus content of 2.82%. The climatic conditions in the reference period were extremely variable; in the first year, a deficit of more than 90 mm of precipitation was registered, and in the second year of this study, an increase of more than 34 mm. The effects of additional fertilization were influenced by the level of precipitation. In 2023, additional fertilization with foliar fertilizer brought production increases of 884 kg/ha, compared with 2022, where foliar fertilization in drought conditions led to a decrease in production. The Utrifun variety proved to be the most productive; this foliar fertilized and with biostimulator, sown at 550 seeds/m2, recorded an increase in production of over 4500 kg/ha compared with the Negoiu control and sown at 650 seeds/m2 and fertilized with foliar fertilizer had an increase of over 4370 kg/ha compared with the Negoiu control. It recorded a production of 9700 kg/ha sown at 550 seeds/m2 and fertilized only on the soil, and sown at 450 seeds/m2 and additionally fertilized with foliar fertilizer recorded a production of 10.900 kg/ha. Utrifun was followed by Zvelt which, sown at 450 seed/m2 and fertilized on the soil, recorded 9500 kg/ha, ensuring an increase of 1800 kg/ha compared with the Negoiu control. The lowest production was achieved by the Tulnic variety, which is 2022, sown at 650 seed/m2 and fertilized on the ground, recorded 5874 kg/ha, 1621 kg/ha less than the control variant. The increases in production obtained by these varieties will be confirmed in a subsequent study under different climatic conditions.

1H NMR Milk Metabolomics Response from Goats Supplemented with Date (Phoenix Dactylifera L.) Pit Powder: Benefiting from Agricultural Waste Byproduct

Utilizing a systems biology approach through metabolomics is crucial for analyzing milk quality. Continual animal supplementing is crucial for enhancing milk quality to ensure high food quality and agricultural productivity. Date pits are agricultural waste byproducts that can be used as active components in cosmetics, as a coffee substitute, and as animal feed. The study investigated the impact of adding date pit powder (DPP) to dairy goats' diet on the milk metabolites to determine possible benefits. Saanen-Boer crossed dairy goats were divided into six groups: control (untreated), 10g and 20g of Ajwa DPP (high quality), 10 g and 20 g of Mariami DPP (agricultural waste byproduct), and 30g of Mariami DPP exclusively. DPP supplementation was administered daily for 12 weeks. The goat milk obtained was analyzed using 1H NMR and then subjected to chemometric studies, namely PCA and PLS. Metabolites were analyzed using tools such as BAYESIL, Chenomx profiler and HMDB. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) showed that milk metabolites changed over time (month), and that supplementing breastfeeding goats with DPP did not result in distinct clusters. However, BAYESIL identified L-Proline, L-Carnitine, and myoinositol as molecules with less than 30 % biological variance at months 1 and 3 of the research, indicating good conservation. Only the levels of L-Carnitine and acetoacetate in the milk showed significant differences between the treatments. Ultimately, the DPP dosages were insufficient to impact the goat's metabolism, resulting in no impacts on milk metabolites. An adaptive response to DPP cultivars and doses was indicated by the results. Overall, these findings might help dairy goat and other ruminant breeders in predicting milk quality by utilizing metabolites as markers for food security (production and quality).

New insights into adlay seed bran polysaccharides: Effects of enzyme-assisted Aspergillus niger solid-state fermentation on its structural features, simulated gastrointestinal digestion, and prebiotic activity

Adlay seed bran, typically discarded or used as animal feed, represents a significant resource waste. This study investigates the structural and physicochemical properties, in vitro digestive behavior, and fecal fermentation profiles of adlay seed bran polysaccharides (ASBPs) prepared using different methods. These methods include hot water extraction, Aspergillus niger solid-state fermentation (SSF), and enzyme-assisted SSF with β-glucosidase, cellulase, and xylanase, referred to as ASBP, ASBP-F, ASBP-GF, ASBP-CF, and ASBP-XF, respectively. Results showed that enzyme-assisted SSF with A. niger improved extraction efficiency and uniformity of ASBPs, increasing total neutral sugars, uronic acids, mannose, and galactose while reducing glucose content, molecular weight, and particle size. ASBP-CF had the best extraction rate, sugar content, lowest molecular weight, finest uniformity, and smallest particle size. In simulated digestion tests, all ASBP variants were stable in stomach and small intestine conditions but degradable by human fecal microbiota, showing varying fermentability levels. ASBPs increased Bacteroidetes populations, inhibited Proteobacteria growth, and enhanced short-chain fatty acid (SCFAs) production, with ASBP-CF showing the highest fermentability and prebiotic efficacy. ASBP-CF was particularly effective in promoting beneficial bacteria like Bacteroides and restraining harmful bacteria such as Escherichia_Shigella, producing more SCFAs during fermentation. These findings suggest that ASBP-CF has potential as a dietary supplement to improve gut health, presenting a high-value utilization strategy for adlay seed bran.

Ecological Consequences of Invasive Weeds: Zimbabwean Experience: A Review

Invasive weeds may be defined as troublesome or unsightly plants growing in abundance in both upland and aquatic situations where they are not wanted. The establishment of invasive species cause elevated destruction of waterways, disrupted fire regimes, and the loss of biodiversity in many natural and agrarian ecosystems. &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Tithonia diversifolia&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; is one of the largest, aggressive colonizers especially in sun-exposed abandoned sites. The impact of this weed result in economic loss through controlling and abandonment of agrarian land. The menace of &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Tithonia diversifolia&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; is reaching alarming proportions in many parts of the world, especially in Zimbabwe where they have led to serious ecological and economic losses. Invasion of both upland and aquatic ecosystem by weeds, has undergone serious ecological changes including over-exploitation of its natural resources and land degradation of both agrarian and natural ecosystem, and invasion by &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Tithonia diversifolia&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; among others. &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Tithonia diversifolia&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; The presence of the invasive weed was viewed as a universal threat to crop farming and ranching enterprises because invasive weeds alter forage quantity or quality for livestock and therefore reduce net revenue. The invasive nature of &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;T diversifolia&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;, its ability to produce a large biomass and possession of an extensive root system has made it a good candidate for remediation of polluted environments. This invasive weed has been implicated in allelopathy as it produces a myriad of phytochemicals such as alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, saponins, tannins and terpenoids there by creating its novel niche. &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Tithonia diversifolia&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; after Invasive weeds have the potential for exploitation animal feed, human food, soil additives, fuel production, wastewater treatment, source of raw materials and habitat to many organisms. This paper reviews the ecological consequences of invasive weeds with examples from some selected fields and special reference to &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Tithonia diversifolia&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;.

Food Waste to Food Security: Transition from Bioresources to Sustainability

The transition from food waste to food security is a critical component of sustainability efforts. This approach focuses on repurposing organic waste products generated throughout the food supply chain into valuable resources. Food waste, encompassing everything from agricultural residues to post-consumer waste, represents a significant untapped potential that can be harnessed to enhance food security. By implementing strategies such as composting, bioconversion, and innovative recycling technologies, biowastes can be transformed into fertilizers, animal feed, and even new food products, thus closing the loop in the food system and aiding sustainable solutions for waste valorization. This transition not only addresses environmental concerns by reducing landfill waste and greenhouse gas emissions but also contributes to economic sustainability by creating new opportunities within the food production and waste management sectors. Ultimately, transforming food waste into a resource aligns with the broader goals of a circular economy, ensuring a sustainable, resilient, and food-secure future.