Corn Silk Research Articles

Chemical composition, physical properties, and sensory evaluation of wheat-based cookies enriched with different proportions of corn silk

Incorporating dried corn silk powder (CSP) into food products is considered beneficial for health and suitable for individuals of all ages. Thus, our study is designed to evaluate the effects of adding CSP to prepared cookies as a nontraditional source of dietary fiber and natural antioxidants, focusing on the chemical composition, physical properties, color attributes, antioxidant activity, and sensory properties of fortified cookies. Different CSP proportions (5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%) replaced wheat flour (WF) with a 72% extraction rate. The results revealed that CSP had significant levels of total phenolic content (TPC) and flavonoid content (TFC), measuring 86.42 mg GAE/g and 112.68 mg QE/g, respectively. CSP contained higher quantities of protein and fiber than WF, with values of 14.81 g and 15.21 g per 100 g of flour weight basis, respectively. The amounts of phenolic compounds in cookie samples increased proportionally with the increasing substitution of CSP, while total carbohydrates decreased. Adding CSP at concentrations of 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% resulted in corresponding increases in crude fiber of 0.52, 1.2, 2.04, and 2.7 times compared to the control cookie samples. As the amount of CSP supplementation increased (0–20%), TPC and TFC in the cookies increased to 3.06 and 4.08 mg GAE/g and 0.02 to 1.28 mg QE/g, respectively. Increasing CSP proportions led to a significant decrease in diameter, thickness, spread factor, volume, and density of fortified cookies. Furthermore, the L* value exhibited a substantial decline from 65.48 to 51.12 as the amount of CSP substitution increased from 5% to 20%. The sensory evaluation characteristics of the cookie samples indicated that the sample with 15% CSP had the highest overall acceptability score. Therefore, this study demonstrates that adding 15% CSP can effectively yield functional cookies without compromising their sensory acceptability.

Nutritional profiling and antioxidant potential of corn silk (Maydis stigma) powder for the development of corn silk tea

AbstractThe study aimed to analyse the nutritional and antioxidant potential of corn silk based formulated tea. Four corn silk tea formulations were developed, one with corn silk only and three using different flavouring herbal/spicing agents, namely lemongrass, green cardamom, and cinnamon. Microwave dried corn silk powder and corn silk tea infusions were analysed for chemical composition. Organoleptic evaluation was also done for tea infusions. The results of chemical evaluation showed that corn silk powder is rich in protein (20.78%), dietary fibre (48.93%), calcium (139.5 mg/100 g), magnesium (163.9 mg/100 g), potassium (1,406 mg/100 g), total phenols (1,365 mg GAE/100 g), and flavonoids (370.8 mg QE/100 g). The antioxidant activity of corn silk powder was observed as 84.95% DPPH inhibition. Maysin content of corn silk powder was 3.65 mg/100 g. Chemical analysis of corn silk tea infusions showed that the addition of flavours significantly enhanced the minerals, total phenols, and flavonoids contents and the antioxidant activity as compared to the tea formulated with only corn silk powder. Results of organoleptic evaluation showed that all four corn silk tea formulations were highly acceptable. Overall improvement in nutritional and antioxidant contents was found in corn silk tea with added flavours.

ANALISIS KADAR ALKALOID DAN FLAVONOID SEDUHAN RAMBUT JAGUNG (Zea mays L. ) DENGAN METODE SPEKTROFOTOMETRI UV-VIS

Corn silk is generally a waste of sweet corn plants after being harvested and is rarely used, however, on the other hand, corn silk is also used by the community as herbal medicine and is believed to reduce the risk of hypertension and other types of chronic diseases such as kidney infections. Corn silk is thought to contain metabolite compounds such as flavonoids, essential oils, steroids, and alkaloids. Alkaloid compounds can function as drugs and strong activators for immune cells that can destroy bacteria, viruses, fungi, and cancer cells. Flavonoid compounds are compounds that have various bioactive effects such as anti-inflammatory, antiviral, cardioprotective, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, anti-aging, and antioxidants. it is necessary to measure the levels of alkaloids and flavonoids from corn silk infusion to determine the levels of alkaloid and flavonoid compounds in corn silk infusion. The method used in this study is the Uv-Vis spectrophotometry method. The alkaloid content was calculated using the regression formula y = 0.0895x - 0.3046, the results obtained in the corn hair infusion extract were 46.36 mg / g extract, and the flavonoid content was calculated using the regression formula y = 0.0144 x - 0.025 and the results obtained in the corn hair infusion extract were 85.42 mg / g extract. So it can be concluded that corn hair infusion contains more flavonoid compounds, namely with alkaloid compound levels of 46.36 mg / g extract and flavonoid compounds of 85.42 mg / g extract.

Tailoring Li-ion transport in hybrid biopolymer electrolyte from Maydis stigma for supercapattery applications

Corn Silk Biopolymer (CSBP), a potent biomaterial shed light on offering a sustainable solution to agrowaste and achieve waste valorization. Hybrid Biopolymer Electrolyte (HBPE) was synthesized using corn silk extract by simple solution casting strategy. Freshly synthesized [30wt % CSBP+70 wt % PVDF-Co-HFP] system exemplifies conductivity of 2.35 × 10−8 Scm−1 and while loading 3.2 v/v % LiClO4 salt, the conductivity increased to 4.05 × 10−4 Scm−1 at 25 °C. Structural studies indicate complex formation between the Li+ and polar groups within polymer-salt system. From FTIR studies, prominent peaks noticed at 1651 and 1628 cm−1 are due to the interaction of –C=O group with Li+ and 625 cm−1 for unbound ClO4−.Our best conducting system reveal Li+ ions (tion = 0.98) are the major charge carriers. Electrochemical behaviour from CV demonstrates a good reversibility with a specific capacity (Qs = 25.6 Cg-1) and specific capacitance (Csp = 10.67 Fg-1) at a scan rate of 1 mV s−1. Also, the relation between the peak current with different scan rates for CPL 2 system is estimated from the slope as b = 0.7 suggesting the extraordinary behavior of a hybrid battery and super capacitor offering a unique platform for the sustainable energy storage technology.

Roles of Three FgPel Genes in the Development and Pathogenicity Regulation of Fusarium graminearum.

Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a devastating fungal disease caused by Fusarium graminearum. Pectin lyase, a pectinase, acts on the α-1,4-glycosidic linkage of galacturonic acid primarily by β-elimination. In this study, three pectin lyase genes (FgPel1, 2, 3) in F. graminearum were selected, and deletion mutants (ΔFgPel1, 2, 3) were constructed by homologous recombination for functional characterization. The gene deletions affected the morphology and growth rate of F. graminearum on pectin medium at various concentrations, with the growth rate of ΔFgPel1 being more significant. The growth of ΔFgPel1 colonies slowed at pH 4, with optimal growth at pH 6.5, whereas ΔFgPel2 and ΔFgPel3 exhibited greater inhibition at pH 8. Colony morphology and diameter of the deletion mutants showed no significant differences compared to the wild-type strain PH-1, and there was no effect on conidial production or germination rate. Pathogenicity assays demonstrated that gene deletion significantly reduced the ability of F. graminearum to infest corn silks and wheat ears, and that ΔFgPel2 showed a more pronounced reduction in pathogenicity on wheat spikes. In summary, the pectin lyase genes (FgPel1, 2, 3) are involved in pectin utilization and are influenced by external pH conditions, which attenuate the pathogenicity of F. graminearum without affecting its vegetative growth or asexual spore formation. These findings elucidate the roles of these genes and provide a basis for controlling FHB.

Development of Analytical Strategy for the Determination of Cadmium by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry After Dithizone/Deep Eutectic Solvent Probe Based Liquid Phase Microextraction

Liquid phase microextraction (LPME) with a dithizone/deep eutectic solvent (DTZ-DES)-based probe was employed for the determination of trace cadmium by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). All extraction parameters were univariately optimized to achieve the highest efficiency and the limits of detection and quantification were 3.5 and 11.8 ng mL−1. Good linearity was obtained from 10 to 200 ng mL−1 with a regression coefficient (R2) of 0.9979. The sensitivity of FAAS system was improved 26.9-fold by the microextraction procedure. The accuracy and applicability of the method were investigated with recovery experiments carried out using corn silk tea extracts. The recovery values with matrix matching calibration were from 81.3 to 114.3%, demonstrating that this environmentally friendly method is applicable for determination of cadmium in tea samples with good accuracy.

Hepatoprotective Effect of Corn Silk Extract on Carbonated Alcoholic Herbal Beverages Induced Hepatoxicity in Adult Wistar Rats

Corn silk is the long shiny fibers at the top of an ordinary ear of corn (Zea mays). Corn silk contains phytochemicals of medical benefit such as flavonoids compounds which act as antioxidant agents and has been widely reported possess hepatoprotective effect. The objective of this paper is to evaluate the hepatoprotective effect of corn silk extract on carbonated alcoholic herbal beverages (CAHB) induced hepatoxicity in adult Wistar rats. A total of forty five adult Wistar rats weighing between 200g and 250g were randomly assigned into nine groups of five rats each in a group. Group A was the normal control group (no CAHB administration). Groups B, C, D, E, F, G, H and I were the CAHB intoxicated groups and treated with corn silk extract at different doses. After administering a carbonated alcoholic herbal beverage, there was a substantial increase (p≤0.05) in the mean concentration of liver enzymes (ALP, ALT, ALT), total bilirubin, and direct bilirubin. While those characteristics reversed to values similar to the control after being treated with varying doses of corn silk extract The oxidative stress parameter (SOD, GPX, Catalase, MDA) shown significant increase in group. Histological examination of the liver revealed infiltrate of inflammatory cells, vascular ulceration, periportal infiltration of inflammatory cell, and vascular congestion in a group treated with carbonated alcoholic herbal beverages (CAHB). The only group exhibiting normal hepatocyte morphology and kupffer cell activity was the one administered 200 mg/kg of maize silk extract. Group D showed a similar and more powerful hepatic architecture after receiving only 600 mg/kg of maize silk extract. The hepatoprotective and anti- oxidative effects of corn silk extract were confirmed by the treatment groups (200 mg/kg and 600 mg/kg), which displayed normal hepatocytes with minor vascular congestion, respectively. Corn silk administration lowers a number of the harmful effects of in vivo carbonated alcoholic herbal beverage administration in the liver of Wister rats, according to the findings in this study.

GC-MS Analysis of Volatile Constituents, Antioxidant and Antidiabetic Activities of Anthocyanin-Rich Purple Corn Silk (Zea mays) from North-Western India

GC-MS Analysis of Volatile Constituents, Antioxidant and Antidiabetic Activities of Anthocyanin-Rich Purple Corn Silk (Zea mays) from North-Western India

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF CORN SILK EXTRACT AGAINST DENTAL CARIES-CAUSING BACTERIA AND ITS FORMULATION IN MOUTHWASH PREPARATION

Indonesia is undergoing a dental caries emergency with a prevalence of 51.1% (Riskesdas, 2018). This may cause tooth decay due to dental plaque bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans. Mouthwash can be a solution because it has antibacterial properties and reaches interspaces on the teeth. Unfortunately, the active ingredient of mouthwash, chlorhexidine, can cause cancer-related mutations if used continuously. Therefore, it requires alternatives to natural ingredients, such as corn silk. The research aims to determine the corn silk phytochemical profile and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against Streptococcus mutans. The research started by macerating corn silk simplicia using 70% ethanol. Afterwards, thin layer chromatography (TLC) was conducted to determine its phytochemical profile. Disk-diffusion and broth microdilution methods were conducted using various concentrations of corn silk extract to determine its antibacterial activity and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against Streptococcus mutans. Then, the MIC₅₀ was used as the minimum dose of corn silk extract concentration in mouthwash formulation which qualities controlled by pH and organoleptic tests. The yield of corn silk extracted was 16.17%w/w. The phytochemical profile from TLC showed that flavonoids, tannins, and terpenoids were present. Corn silk extract has antibacterial activities against Streptococcus mutans with MIC₅₀ of 7.2%w/v. Corn silk extract, tween 80, sorbitol, sodium benzoate, sodium metabisulfite, oleum menthae piperitae, and distilled water were used in four mouthwash formulas (F1-F4). The pH of all formulas was 5 and the organoleptic test showed that from 30 panelists, the majority chose F2 as the best in terms of taste, color, and smell.

Improving Skills and Empowering Women Community through Gayatri Womens’ School in Grenden Village, Jember, Indonesia

Womens’ empowerment plays an important role in improving family welfare. Womens’ empowerment can be done through increasing access to education, skills, economic opportunities, health, and participation in decision-making in various fields. This study aims to improve the skills of Womens’ groups in Grenden Village, Jember, Indonesia through non-formal education, namely the Gayatri Womens’ School. The Gayatri Womens’ School was established with the main objective of providing training and non-formal education to women in Grenden Puger Village to face various challenges in terms of skills and employment opportunities for women. This study uses a descriptive qualitative research approach to explore the research subjects. The subjects of this study include Womens’ groups in Grenden Village who are members of the Gayatri Womens’ School, consisting of one person representing each study group, family welfare empowerment (PKK), and Integrated Service Post cadres. The data analysis technique uses the Miles and Hubberman interactive model which consists of 4 stages, namely data collection, data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The implementation of the Gayatri Womens’ School activities consists of the stages of planning, implementation, evaluation, and sustainability. Gayatri Womens’ school training activities were carried out in 6 study groups, namely Krajan 1 class, Krajan II class, Kapuran class, Kumitir class, Karangsono class, and Karetan class. Gayatri Womens’ school activities were able to increase income and improve the environment through the utilization of local potentials such as corn silk tea, fertilizer from corn cobs, corn husk crafts, hair clips, and photo frames from shells, eco print batik, hanging pots from coconut shells and corn milk. Gayatri Womens’ school activities can empower skills to foster an independent and creative attitude in achieving sustainable human resource development.

Activated Carbons Derived from Different Parts of Corn Plant and Their Ability to Remove Phenoxyacetic Herbicides from Polluted Water

In this study, the adsorption of phenoxyacetic acid (PAA) and its chlorinated derivatives, including 4-chlorophenoxyacetic acid (4CPA) and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), on activated carbons (ACs) from corn kernels (AC-K), corn leaves (AC-L), and corn silk (AC-S) were investigated. The adsorption kinetics followed the pseudo-second-order model, and the film diffusion was the rate-limiting step. The adsorption rate increased in the order PAA < 4CPA < 2,4-D and was correlated with the porous structure (mesopore volume) of these ACs. The Langmuir isotherm models best fit the experimental data; PAA was adsorbed least and 2,4-D most preferentially. The observed trend (PAA < 4CPA < 2,4-D) was positively correlated with the molecular weight of the adsorbates and their hydrophobicity while being inversely correlated with their solubility in water. The adsorption for 2,4-D, according to the Langmuir equation, is equal to 2.078, 2.135, and 2.467 mmol/g and SBET 1600, 1720, and 1965 m2/g, respectively. The results for other herbicides showed a similar correlation. The adsorption of phenoxy herbicides was strongly pH-dependent. The ACs produced from corn biomass can be an eco-friendly choice, offering sustainable products that could be used as efficient adsorbents for removing phenoxyacetic herbicides from water.

Corn silk as an underutilized sustainable source of plant proteins: Extraction, fractionation, structure, and techno-functional properties

Plant proteins extracted from agro-industrial waste are gaining importance in the food industry due to environmental, sustainability, and economic reasons. These proteins can be extracted and then converted into high-value ingredients, thereby promoting a circular economy. Corn silk, often regarded as an underutilized waste stream, currently has limited applications beyond its uses as a traditional medicine in some regions of the world. The present study characterized the structural, physicochemical, thermal, techno-functional, and in vitro digestibility properties of corn silk protein (CSP) and its three major fractions (albumin, globulin, and glutelin). Glutelin (67.5%) was the major protein fraction of CSP, followed by albumin (23.2%) and globulin (9.2%). A purity greater than 60% could be achieved for all fractions. The structural and techno-functional properties of the different protein fractions were impacted by their composition. The glutelin fractions had higher foaming and thermal properties but lower emulsification properties than the other fractions. However, the albumin fraction had higher in vitro digestibility and better nutritional quality. Nevertheless, the CSPs did have lysine levels below the recommended values. These findings extend the current understanding of the structural and functional properties of corn silk protein and its fractions, thereby expanding their potential applications in the food and other industries.

Exploring the Anti-obesity Properties of Corn Silk Extract (CornFit®) in C57BL/6 Mice Induced with Obesity via a High-Fat Diet

Exploring the Anti-obesity Properties of Corn Silk Extract (CornFit®) in C57BL/6 Mice Induced with Obesity via a High-Fat Diet

Adsorption of Brilliant Scarlet 3r dye onto Corn Silk as Agricultural Waste in Neutral Medium

This study investigates the adsorption of Brilliant Scarlet 3r dye (BS 3r) onto corn silk (CK), an agricultural waste, in a neutral medium. The characteristics of corn silk as an adsorbent were analyzed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Atomic force microscopy (AFM). Batch adsorption experiments were conducted to examine the effects of corn silk weight, initial BS 3r concentration, adsorption period, adsorption temperature, and pH of the medium on the adsorption process. Langmuir, Freundlich and Dubinin-Radushkevich (D-R) isotherms models were used to represented the equilibrium experimental date, the obtained values of correlation coefficient R2 indicated that the adsorption followed the Langmuir isotherm. The kinetics analysis results showed that the adsorption of Brilliant Scarlet 3r dye (BS 3r) onto corn silk followed the pseudo second-order model (PSOM), indicating its suitability for describing the adsorption kinetics. Thermodynamic parameters, including ∆G˚, ∆H˚, and ∆S˚, indicated that the adsorption process of BS 3r dye onto corn silk was spontaneous and exothermic in nature.

Zearalenone removal using inactivated yeast embedded in porous modified yam starch aerogels and its application in corn silk tea

Zearalenone contaminates food and poses a threat to human health. It is vital to develop cost-effective and environmentally-friendly adsorbents for its removal. By screening Sporobolomyces pararoseus (SZ4) and modified yam starch (adsorption capacity (qe) of 1.33 and 0.94 mg/g, respectively), this study prepared a novel composite aerogel adsorbent (P-YSA@SZ410). The compressive strength of P-YSA@SZ410 was 1.35-fold higher than unloaded yeast. It contained several functional groups and three-dimensional interconnected channels, achieving a 0° contact angle within 0.18 s, thereby demonstrating excellent water-absorbent properties. With a qe of 2.96 mg/g at 308 K, the adsorption process of P-YSA@SZ410 was spontaneous, endothermic, and matched pseudo-second-order and Langmuir models. The composite adsorbed zearalenone via electrostatic attraction and hydrogen bonding, maintaining a qe of 2.24 mg/g after five cycles. P-YSA@SZ410 was found to remove zearalenone effectively under various conditions and could be applied to corn silk tea, indicating its great potential as an adsorbent material.

Effect of corn silk powder on the baking and quality dynamics of muffins.

Corn silk, often considered as a waste material in sweet corn processing, is typically discarded by most food manufacturing industries. This study aims to maximize the utilization of corn silk by evaluating its phytochemical, physicochemical and sensory characteristics. The development of food products with enhanced nutritional value is a pressing concern for both scientists and food producers in the industry. Therefore, this research focuses on the creation of highly nutritious muffins incorporating underutilized corn silk powder (CSP). In the muffin preparation, CSP was used to partially replace refined wheat flour at levels of 10%, 20%, 30% and 40%. As the proportion of CSP increased, the protein and crude fiber content of the muffins gradually increased. Additionally, the total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of the muffins significantly increased (p ≤ 0.05) with the inclusion of CSP, reaching their maximum values when CSP was used to replace 40% of the refined wheat flour. The incorporation of CSP led to a decrease in the L* (lightness) value, resulting in lower a* (redness) and b* (yellowness) values in the muffins. Texture analysis revealed that the cohesiveness, chewiness and gumminess of the muffins increased as the amount of CSP in the recipe was raised. A sensory evaluation was conducted to assess the acceptability of the corn silk muffins. The addition of CSP in muffins improved the sensory characteristics including colour, aroma, mouthfeel, texture and overall acceptability. These findings indicate that CSP has the potential to be used in the development of bakery food products, instant mixes, infant food formulas and value-added items.

From waste to wonder: exploring the hypoglycemic and anti-oxidant properties of corn processing by-products.

Introduction: The industrial processing of corn (Zeamays L.) generates by-products such as corn silk, straw peels, and straw core, which contribute to adverse environmental impacts. Our study aimed to investigate sustainable approaches for mitigating these effects by evaluating the hypoglycemic potential and mechanisms of ethyl acetate fractions derived from these corn derivatives. Methods: We employed glucose consumption assays, high glucose stress tests, UPLC-QE-Orbitrap-MS analysis, molecular docking, and simulations to assess their components and efficacy. Antioxidant capacities were evaluated using DPPH, FRAP, ABTS, and •OH scavenging assays. Results: Notably, the ethyl acetate fraction extracted from straw peels (SPE) exhibited a high concentration of flavonoids and phenolic compounds along with pronounced hypoglycemic activity and antioxidant capacity. SPE significantly enhanced glucose consumption in insulin-resistant HepG2 cells while protecting HUVECs against damage caused by high glucose levels. Molecular docking analyses confirmed the interaction between active compounds and α-glucosidase as well as α-amylase, while molecular dynamic simulations indicated stability at their binding sites. Discussion: In conclusion, the hypoglycemic and antioxidative properties observed in corn by-products such as straw peels, corn silk, and straw core can be attributed to the inhibition of α-glucosidase and α-amylase activities, coupled with their rich phenolic and flavonoid content. These findings highlight the potential of these by-products for applications in healthcare management and their sustainable utilization, demonstrating significant value in the use of agricultural residues.

Comparison of the mechanical characteristics of biocomposites of unsaturated polyester resin with cellulose extracted from corn silk and treated corn silk

The purpose of this study is to extract cellulose from corn silk (CS) fiber and use it as a reinforcing filler in unsaturated polyester resin (UPR) matrix. In this study, the cellulose is characterized using a Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR), and the resulting UPR/cellulose biocomposite's mechanical properties (such as flexural and impact testing) are assessed. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) provided strong support for mechanical rather than a chemical bond between fiber and UPR. Additionally, the sodium hydroxide treated CS in UPR biocomposite and comparing it with neat UPR. The agricultural byproduct rich in cellulose corn silk is a natural polymer known for its structural strength and UPR has garnered attention as a biopolymer with notable flexibility, making it an appealing choice for plastic product manufacturing. However, the drawback of UPR lies in its inherent deficiency in both stiffness and strength. According to the FTIR data, extracted cellulose (CS) had fewer ketone (C = O) and hydroxyl (-OH) groups than virgin cellulose. It was shown that throughout the extraction process, hemicellulose and lignin were more eliminated, producing a more pure form of cellulose. When filled in UPR, cellulose and treated CS both caused the impact strength of UPR biocomposites to drop. For both treated CS and cellulose, it was shown that the flexural modulus and flexural strength increased as the filler amount increased to a definite percentage (12%) after which it decreased. The result revealed the tensile strength and tensile modulus achieved by 0% of fiber with 48 N/mm2 and 51 N/mm2 and highest at 12% of fiber with 54.3 N/mm2 and 68.8 N/mm2 for CS + UPR. And 53.4 N/mm2 and 69.6 N/mm2 for cellulose + UPR composite,, respectively. In comparison, the flexural characteristics of UPR/cellulose were marginally inferior to those of UPR/treated CS. However, the impact resistance showed a significant improvement, particularly with a cellulose loading of 12%. Hence, cellulose presents a greater potential for composite manufacturing due to its ability to maintain the ductile properties of UPR compared to treated CS. Moreover, processed CS and cellulose both can be used as reinforcing agents in polymers to increase their strength and stiffness.

Competition between brown stink bug (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) and corn earworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in field corn.

Interspecific competition is an important ecological concept which can play a major role in insect population dynamics. In the southeastern United States, a complex of stink bugs (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), primarily the brown stink bug, Euschistus servus (Say), and corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea (Boddie) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), are the 2 most common pests of field corn, Zea mays L. (Poales: Poaceae). Stink bugs have the greatest potential for economic injury during the late stages of vegetative corn development when feeding can result in deformed or "banana-shaped" ears and reduced grain yield. Corn earworm moths lay eggs on corn silks during the first stages of reproductive development. A 2-year field study was conducted to determine the impact of feeding by the brown stink bug during late-vegetative stages on subsequent corn earworm oviposition, larval infestations, and grain yield. Brown stink bug feeding prior to tasseling caused deformed ears and reduced overall grain yield by up to 92%. Across all trials, varying levels of brown stink bug density and injury reduced the number of corn earworm larvae by 29-100% and larval feeding by 46-85%. Averaged across brown stink bug densities, later planted corn experienced a 9-fold increase in number of corn earworm larvae. This is the first study demonstrating a competitive interaction between these major pests in a field corn setting, and these results have potential implications for insect resistance management.

Research on the Mechanism and Material Basis of Corn (Zea mays L.) Waste Regulating Dyslipidemia.

Corn (Zea mays L.) is an essential gramineous food crop. Traditionally, corn wastes have primarily been used in feed, harmless processing, and industrial applications. Except for corn silk, these wastes have had limited medicinal uses. However, in recent years, scholars have increasingly studied the medicinal value of corn wastes, including corn silk, bracts, husks, stalks, leaves, and cobs. Hyperlipidemia, characterized by abnormal lipid and/or lipoprotein levels in the blood, is the most common form of dyslipidemia today. It is a significant risk factor for atherosclerosis and can lead to cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases if severe. According to the authors' literature survey, corn wastes play a promising role in regulating glucose and lipid metabolism. This article reviews the mechanisms and material basis of six different corn wastes in regulating dyslipidemia, aiming to provide a foundation for the research and development of these substances.