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Cited by 240Ruminant Nutrition and Digestive PhysiologyAgricultural Engineering and MechanizationCrop Yield and Soil Fertility

Silage review: Recent advances and future technologies for whole-plant and fractionated corn silage harvesting

Open access
Ferraretto, L.F., Shaver, R.D., Luck, B.D.·2018·Journal of Dairy Science
DOI 10.3168/jds.2017-13728
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Abstract

Over the last 25 years, whole-plant corn silage has become an important and popular feedstuff for dairy production. Copious research has been dedicated to the development and evaluation of alternatives to enhance the nutritive value of whole-plant corn silage. These efforts have been aimed at manipulating the physical and chemical characteristics of whole-plant corn silage in an effort to maximize dairy profitability. Results from this review indicate that optimization of harvest maturity, kernel processing, theoretical length of cut, and cutting height improve or maintain the nutritive value and milk production of lactating dairy cows. Technological advancements have been developed and made available to dairy producers and corn growers desiring to enhance fiber and starch digestibility of whole-plant corn silage. Future research should be directed toward further assessment of new processors available in the market and the development of assessment methods for optimization of crop processor settings, harvest efficiency, and nutritional modeling.

Integrity signals

Registry

Crossref · 10.3168/jds.2017-13728

Cites

75 of 75 references verified0 citation errors · 0 not checkable

Statistics

Nothing to recompute.

Claims the paper makes

24 of 155 cited sources checked · 13 supported · 1 flagged · accuracy not yet measured

  • Premisecitation

    Theoretical length of cut settings were shorter for unprocessed than processed whole-plant corn silage treatments in most studies.

    “TLOC settings were shorter for unprocessed than processed WPCS treatments in most studies (Bal et al., 2000a;Dhiman et al., 2000;Weiss and Wyatt, 2000;Schwab et al., 2002;Ouellet et al., 2003;Cooke and Bernard, 2005).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim2 of 3 sources checked
    • cites Bal et al., 2000a

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

    • cites Dhiman et al., 2000 source
    • cites Weiss and Wyatt, 2000 source
  • Premisecitation

    Kernel vitreous endosperm proportion increases with increased DM content of whole-plant corn silage.

    “Kernel vitreous endosperm proportion increases with increased DM content of WPCS (Philippeau and Michalet-Doreau, 1997;Johnson et al., 1999); greater kernel hardness causes kernels in very dry WPCS to be less susceptible to breakage during kernel processing at harvest.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 2 sources checked
    • cites Philippeau and Michalet-Doreau, 1997 source
    • cites Johnson et al., 1999 source

      The In situ digestibility section discusses vitreous endosperm and separately relates corn-grain DM to starch digestibility. The Nutritive value of corn silage–animal studies section says whole-plant DM increases with maturity, but neither passage says that the proportion of vitreous endosperm increases as whole-plant silage DM increases. Searched for that relationship using vitreousness, maturity, DM, and kernel hardness. (LLM, conf=0.72)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
  • Findingcitation

    Particle size of processed whole-plant corn silage harvested with longer theoretical length of cut settings was similar to unprocessed silages in some but not all studies.

    “In addition, particle size of processed WPCS harvested with longer TLOC settings was similar to unprocessed silages in some (Dhiman et al., 2000, trial 2;Schwab et al., 2002;Cooke and Bernard, 2005) but not all (Bal et al., 2000a;Dhiman et al., 2000, trial 3;Weiss and Wyatt, 2000) studies.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim2 of 3 sources checked
    • cites Dhiman et al., 2000, trial 2 source
    • cites Schwab et al., 2002 source
    • cites Cooke and Bernard, 2005 source
  • Premisecitation

    Harvest practices such as proper maturity at harvest, kernel processing, theoretical length of cut, and cutting height are well-established management tools for improving physical and chemical characteristics and hence nutrient digestibility of whole-plant corn silage.

    “Harvest practices, such as proper maturity at harvest, kernel processing, theoretical length of cut (TLOC), and cutting height are well-established management tools for improving physical and chemical characteristics and hence nutrient digestibility of WPCS (Johnson et al., 1999;Allen et al., 2003;Buxton and O'Kiely, 2003;Ferraretto and Shaver, 2012b).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 3 sources checked
    • cites Johnson et al., 1999 source

      The Introduction and Conclusions (pages not provided) identify harvest maturity and mechanical processing as factors in corn-silage nutritive value and digestibility. The Particle size section discusses theoretical length of cut, but the paper says evidence on its interaction with processing is limited; the searched passages do not address cutting height as a tool for improving digestibility. (LLM, conf=0.87)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
    • cites Allen et al., 2003

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

    • cites Buxton and O'Kiely, 2003

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Premisecitation

    Corn-stover tissue is sufficiently damaged by processing to increase ruminal fiber degradation.

    “Although corn-stover tissue is sufficiently damaged by processing to increase ruminal fiber degradation (Johnson et al., 1999;Bal et al., 2000b), these effects are often inconsistent (Allen et al., 2003;Ferraretto and Shaver, 2012b).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim1 of 2 sources checked
    • cites Johnson et al., 1999 source

      The “In situ responses—corn silage” section reports greater NDF disappearance after mechanical processing, consistent with increased ruminal fiber degradation. But it presents damage to corn-stover tissue as the explanation with “We hypothesize,” whereas the citing sentence states that mechanism as fact. (LLM, conf=0.87)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
    • cites Bal et al., 2000b

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims. 49
  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim. 29
  • The quote only partly states this claim. 3

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Kernel processing lessened the amount of intact kernels when theoretical length of cut was 11.1 mm, but not when it was 27.8 or 39.7 mm.

    “Johnson et al. (2003) reported that kernel processing lessened the amount of intact kernels when TLOC was 11.1 mm, but not when 27.8 or 39.7 mm.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim1 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Johnson et al., 2003 source

      The discussion of intact kernels (page not available in our copy) says that processing did not reduce their amount in experiment 1, which tested all three stated cut lengths. Table 3 reports more intact kernels at 11.1 mm with processing (23.3%) than without it (16.1%), the opposite of the claimed reduction. (LLM, conf=0.91)

      Checked by a reasoning model — may be wrong.

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Higher ruminal propionate concentrations for cows fed processed whole-plant corn silage may decrease meal size and thus dry matter intake.

    “Alternatively, higher ruminal propionate concentrations for cows fed processed WPCS (Dhiman et al., 2000;Schwab et al., 2002;Johnson et al., 2003) may decrease meal size and thus DMI (Allen et al., 2009).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim2 of 3 sources checked
    • cites Dhiman et al., 2000 source
    • cites Schwab et al., 2002 source
    • cites Johnson et al., 2003 source

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.

    Interpretationcitation

    The total-tract starch digestibility response to processing rolls at different theoretical length of cut settings was thought to be related to greater kernel breakage by cutting knives at the lower theoretical length of cut or inhibition of kernel breakage during passage through the rollers by the stover portion at the longer theoretical length of cut.

    “These results were thought to be related to greater kernel breakage by cutting knives at the lower TLOC (Johnson et al., 1999) or inhibition of kernel breakage during passage through the rollers by the stover portion at the longer TLOC.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Johnson et al., 1999 source

      Split into 2 atoms — 0 confirmed, 2 partially supported, 0 disputed, 0 misattributed, 0 unverifiable. Expand the claim to see per-atom verdicts.

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Peak milk production was achieved when whole-plant corn silage was harvested at approximately 35% DM or between one-half and two-thirds kernel milk line.

    “The authors revealed that peak milk production was achieved when WPCS was harvested at approximately 35% DM or between one-half and two-thirds kernel milk line.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Johnson et al., 1999 source

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Interpretationcitation

    The greater NDF digestibility above 40% DM could be related to less negative effects of greater ruminal starch digestibility on NDF digestibility for drier, more mature whole-plant corn silage.

    “According to the authors, this could be related to less negative effects of greater ruminal starch digestibility on NDF digestibility for drier, more mature WPCS (Russell and Wilson, 1996).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Russell and Wilson, 1996 source

      The Introduction and In Vitro Studies sections support the general mechanism: faster starch fermentation can lower ruminal pH, and lower pH can inhibit cellulose digestion. The paper does not address NDF digestibility specifically in drier, more mature whole-plant corn silage or a threshold above 40% dry matter; that application is not established by this source. (LLM, conf=0.86)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Delayed whole-plant corn silage harvest increases starch concentration and decreases CP, NDF, and ash concentrations.

    “Several reviews emphasize an increased concentration of starch and corresponding decline in CP, NDF, and ash concentrations with delayed WPCS harvest (Johnson et al., 1999;Allen et al., 2003;Buxton and O'Kiely, 2003).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim1 of 3 sources checked
    • cites Johnson et al., 1999 source

      The “Nutritive value of corn silage—animal studies” section says starch tends to increase and CP and NDF tend to decline with advancing maturity. It does not report a corresponding decline in ash concentration, so Johnson et al. support only part of the attributed claim. (LLM, conf=0.88)

      Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
    • cites Allen et al., 2003

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

    • cites Buxton and O'Kiely, 2003

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Fractionation of corn plants at harvest could be used as a tool in ration formulation; for example, by separating and feeding the less digestible fraction, the stalks, to animals of lower energetic demand.

    “Cook et al. (2016) suggested this fractionation of corn plants at harvest could be used as a tool in ration formulation; for example, by separating and feeding the less digestible fraction, the stalks, to animals of lower energetic demand (i.e., heifers, far-off dry cows).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim1 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Cook et al., 2016 source

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    The stover fraction is also crushed and mean particle length is reduced when forage harvesters are equipped with processing rolls, particularly under tighter roll-gap settings.

    “But the stover fraction is also crushed and MPL reduced when forage harvesters are equipped with processing rolls (Table 2; Johnson et al., 2003), particularly under tighter roll-gap settings (Shinners et al., 2000).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim1 of 2 sources checked
    • cites Johnson et al., 2003 source
    • cites Shinners et al., 2000 source

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingreasoning

    The general trend of rated engine power for self-propelled forage harvesters is increasing, with large gains in maximum power of the largest machines over the past 17 years.

    “The general trend of rated engine power for SPFH is increasing, with large gains in maximum power of the largest machines over the past 17 years, the largest of which was rated greater than 800 kW.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Findingcitation

    Rated engine power (kW) is related to terminal year of manufacture of self-propelled forage harvesters from 2000 to 2017.

    “Rated engine power (kW) versus terminal year of manufacture of self-propelled forage harvesters from 2000 to 2017.All models produced by 4 major self-propelled forage harvester companies are included in this data (IRON Solutions Inc., 2017).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites IRON Solutions Inc., 2017

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Shredlage processor affects whole-plant corn silage particle size, corn silage processing score, and ruminal in situ digestibility.

    “Effects of shredlage processor on whole-plant corn silage particle size, corn silage processing score (means ± SD), and ruminal in situ digestibility”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    The starch endosperm in corn kernels is protected by the pericarp, which, if intact, is highly resistant to microbial attachment and enzymatic digestion.

    “The starch endosperm in corn kernels is protected by the pericarp, which, if intact, is highly resistant to microbial attachment and enzymatic digestion (McAllister et al., 1994); therefore, breakage of the seed coat is required for improved digestibility.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites McAllister et al., 1994 source

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Harvesting silage with processing rolls increased diet total-tract starch digestibility when theoretical length of cut was set at 0.93 to 2.86 cm, but not when the theoretical length of cut setting was shorter or longer.

    “Harvesting silage with processing rolls increased diet TTSD when TLOC was set at 0.93 to 2.86 cm, but not when the TLOC setting was shorter or longer (Ferraretto and Shaver, 2012b).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Ferraretto and Shaver, 2012b

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    The use of processing rolls increased total-tract starch digestibility for diets containing whole-plant corn silage with 32 to 40% DM at feed-out, but not when whole-plant corn silage was above 40% DM.

    “A meta-analysis of recent studies revealed the use of processing rolls increased TTSD for diets containing WPCS with 32 to 40% DM at feed-out, but not when WPCS was above 40% DM (Ferraretto and Shaver, 2012b; Figure 1).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Ferraretto and Shaver, 2012b

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims. The quote only partly states this claim.

    Premisecitation

    No differences in dry matter intake or milk yield were noted between whole-plant corn silage processed at 1 to 3 mm and unprocessed whole-plant corn silage.

    “No differences, however, were noted between WPCS processed at 1 to 3 mm and unprocessed WPCS.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Ferraretto and Shaver, 2012b

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Ferraretto and Shaver (2012b) reported no influence of kernel processing on dry matter intake with a trend toward greater milk yield for whole-plant corn silage processed at 1 to 3 mm or unprocessed compared with whole-plant corn silage processed at 4 to 8 mm.

    “Ferraretto and Shaver (2012b) reported no influence of kernel processing on DMI with a trend toward greater milk yield for WPCS processed at 1 to 3 mm or unprocessed compared with WPCS processed at 4 to 8 mm.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Ferraretto and Shaver, 2012b

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Delayed maturity at harvest has been suggested as a management tool to increase DM and starch yields per hectare.

    “Thus, delayed maturity at harvest has been suggested as a management tool to increase DM and starch yields per hectare (Owens, 2014).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Owens, 2014

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Interpretationreasoning

    The combination of opposing factors for short and long forage particles may explain the lack of theoretical length of cut effects.

    “Perhaps the combination of these opposing factors for short and long forage particles may explain the lack of TLOC effects.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Premisecitation

    Allen et al. (2003) suggested the optimum harvest point for whole-plant corn silage to be in the range of 32 to 35% DM.

    “Later, Allen et al. (2003) suggested the optimum harvest point for WPCS to be in the range of 32 to 35% DM, but noted that more research trials were warranted, particularly on the interactions among maturity at harvest, hybrid types, and diet formulation strategies.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Allen et al., 2003

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Physically effective NDF is positively associated with chewing activity, ruminal pH, and milk fat content.

    “This is particularly desirable with increasing dietary concentrations of rapidly fermentable carbohydrates because peNDF is positively associated with chewing activity, ruminal pH, and milk fat content (Mertens, 1997).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Mertens, 1997 source

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Interpretationcitation

    Opposing effects could explain the observed lack of effect of kernel processing on dry matter intake.

    “Perhaps these opposing effects could explain the observed lack of effect of kernel processing on DMI, as suggested by Ferraretto and Shaver (2012b).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Ferraretto and Shaver, 2012b

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Maturity at harvest alters yield, nutrient composition, digestibility, and ensiling potential of crops.

    “Maturity at harvest alters yield, nutrient composition, digestibility, and ensiling potential of crops (Buxton and O'Kiely, 2003).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Buxton and O'Kiely, 2003

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Greater ruminal pH and retention time is often reported for long particles, which could enhance NDF digestibility.

    “Greater ruminal pH and retention time is often reported for long particles (Allen, 1997), which could enhance NDF digestibility.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Allen, 1997 source

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    During maturation of the corn plant, sugars in kernels are converted to starch, and the DM content of kernels increases.

    “During maturation of the corn plant, sugars in kernels are converted to starch, and the DM content of kernels increases (Allen et al., 2003).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Allen et al., 2003

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Longer particle length would stimulate chewing and maintain short dietary fractions (i.e., concentrate feeds) entrapped in the rumen mat.

    “Under these circumstances, longer particle length would stimulate chewing and maintain short dietary fractions (i.e., concentrate feeds) entrapped in the rumen mat (Allen et al., 2003).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Allen et al., 2003

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    As corn crop maturity progresses, the proportion of DM contributed by kernels increases and the proportion contributed by stover decreases.

    “As the corn crop maturity progresses, most changes are associated with the extent of kernel development, which alters the proportion of DM contributed by its various fractions-typically, increased proportion of kernels and reduced proportions of stover (stalk, leaves, and husk; Buxton and O'Kiely, 2003).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Buxton and O'Kiely, 2003

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    Altering harvest parameters from conventional whole-plant corn silage to increased cutting height, earlage or snaplage with an ear-snapping header, or toplage will reduce the total amount of material passing through the machine at similar cutting widths and speeds.

    “From a machinery operation perspective, altering the harvest parameters from conventional WPCS to increased cutting height, earlage or snaplage with an ear-snapping header, or the new toplage will reduce the total amount of material passing through the machine at similar cutting widths and speeds.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Interpretationreasoning

    Operators will be able to maintain the ton per hour of DM harvested by the machine by increasing ground speed.

    “Operators will be able to maintain the ton per hour of DM harvested by the machine by increasing ground speed.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Well-fermented snaplage may have a high starch digestibility, and diets may need a source of starch with lower digestibility such as dry corn to maintain normal milk fat concentrations.

    “Results suggest that well-fermented snaplage may have a high starch digestibility, and diets may need a source of starch with lower digestibility such as dry corn to maintain normal milk fat concentrations.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Partial replacement of snaplage with dry ground shelled corn alleviated the depression in milk fat percentage, with snaplage plus dry corn being 0.12 percentage units higher than snaplage alone, but still 0.15 percentage units lower than rolled high-moisture shelled corn.

    “Partial replacement of snaplage with dry ground shelled corn alleviated the depression in milk fat percentage with SPDC being 0.12 percentage units higher than SNAP, but still 0.15 percentage units lower than RHMC.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Akins and Shaver, 2014 source

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Increased quantities of high-cut whole-plant corn silage forage could be included in the total mixed ration, rather than corn grain being added to the diet, providing an economic benefit to implementing increased cutting heights.

    “Also, increased quantities of high-cut WPCS forage could be included in the TMR, rather than corn grain being added to the diet, providing an economic benefit to implementing increased cutting heights.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisereasoning

    Corn shredlage increased ruminal in situ starch digestibility and total-tract starch digestibility in both trials.

    “Furthermore, SHRD increased ruminal in situ starch digestibility (Table 6) and TTSD in both trials.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites Ferraretto and Shaver, 2012a

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

    • cites Vanderwerff et al., 2015 source

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Increased ground speed during harvest will have a positive effect on harvest efficiency while maintaining feed quality.

    “Increased ground speed during harvest will have a positive effect on harvest efficiency (i.e., time required to harvest) while maintaining feed quality.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Yields of DM were 72 to 77% of the yield produced by whole-plant corn silage harvest, but starch concentration was greater for toplage than for whole-plant corn silage (43.0 vs. 33.9% of DM).

    “Yields of DM were 72 to 77% of the yield produced by WPCS harvest, but starch concentration was greater for toplage than for WPCS (43.0 vs. 33.9% of DM).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Nigon et al., 2016 source

  • May combine two claims. The quote only partly states this claim.

    Premisecitation

    Milk yields were similar among the rolled high-moisture shelled corn, snaplage, and snaplage plus dry corn diets, averaging 39.4 kg/d.

    “Milk yields were similar, averaging 39.4 kg/d.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Akins and Shaver, 2014 source

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    When fed in rations for lactating dairy cows, a greater proportion of long stover particles can increase the physically effective NDF content of the ration, which is important for proper rumen function, cow health, and milk fat content.

    “When fed in rations for lactating dairy cows, this can increase the peNDF content of the ration, which is important for proper rumen function, cow health, and milk fat content (Mertens, 1997).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Mertens, 1997 source

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisereasoning

    Component-corrected milk yields were similar among diets, resulting in higher feed efficiency for both snaplage diets (1.57 and 1.62) compared with rolled high-moisture shelled corn (1.46).

    “Componentcorrected milk yields were also similar, resulting in higher feed efficiency (kg of milk/kg of DMI) for both SNAP (1.57) and SPDC (1.62) compared with RHMC (1.46).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Akins and Shaver, 2014 source

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Dry matter content of harvested whole-plant corn silage was well correlated with the output of the near-infrared spectrometer, and other parameters could be accurately assessed with calibration of the spectrometer.

    “Dry matter content of the harvested WPCS was well correlated with the output of the NIRS, and other parameters could be accurately assessed with calibration of the spectrometer.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Welle et al., 2003 source

  • The quote only partly states this claim.

    Interpretationreasoning

    The improved intake and milk production with alkali-treated whole-plant corn silage and fractionated whole-plant corn silage are likely related to improved total-tract NDF digestibility for alkali-treated whole-plant corn silage.

    “These results are likely related to improved total-tract NDF digestibility for alkali-treated WPCS.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Snaplage harvest allows for an earlier corn harvest, which proceeds more rapidly, with kernel processing done in the harvester rather than at the silo as done with rolled high-moisture shelled corn.

    “This allows for an earlier corn harvest, which proceeds more rapidly, with kernel processing done in the harvester rather than at the silo as done with RHMC.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    The snaplage containing diets contained 26 to 27% starch, whereas the rolled high-moisture shelled corn diet contained 24% starch (DM basis), which could also contribute to the reduced milk fat content.

    “The snaplage containing diets (SNAP and SPDC) contained 26 to 27% starch, whereas RHMC contained 24% starch (DM basis), which could also contribute to the reduced milk fat content.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Akins and Shaver, 2014 source

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Laboratory and in-field tests showed the capability to predict moisture content of harvested crops, but moisture content at different harvest locations were not well predicted, indicating the need for local calibration of the near-infrared spectrometer sensor.

    “Laboratory and in-field tests showed the capability to predict moisture content of the harvested crops, but moisture content at different harvest locations (e.g., Wisconsin versus Arizona) were not well predicted, indicating the need for local calibration of the NIRS sensor.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Digman and Shinners, 2008 source

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Despite the greater amount of coarse particles for corn shredlage than conventional-processed whole-plant corn silage, measurements of weigh-backs during both trials indicated minimal sorting and no differences in sorting among treatments.

    “Despite the greater amount of coarse particles for SHRD than CPCS, measurements of weigh-backs during both trials indicated minimal sorting and no differences in sorting among treatments.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites Ferraretto and Shaver, 2012a

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

    • cites Vanderwerff et al., 2015 source

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Milk fat yield, milk protein concentration, and milk protein yield were unaffected by the treatments.

    “Milk fat yield, milk protein concentration, and milk protein yield were unaffected by the treatments.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Akins and Shaver, 2014 source

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    X-ray technology was implemented and proven effective at measuring DM yield and foreign object detection; however, safety concerns are a limiting factor.

    “Recently, X-ray technology was implemented and proven effective at measuring DM yield and foreign object detection; however, safety concerns are a limiting factor (Wild et al., 2015).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Wild et al., 2015 source

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    The impact plate and feed-roll displacement sensor were both well correlated with mass-flow rate through the harvester in whole-plant corn.

    “Findings indicated the impact plate and feed-roll displacement sensor were both well correlated with mass-flow rate through the harvester in whole-plant corn.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Martel and Savoie, 2000

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Dias Junior et al. (2016) proposed a novel laboratory procedure to measure kernel fragmentation based on the hydrodynamic separation method of Savoie et al. (2004) in combination with dry-sieving and geometric mean particle size calculation.

    “Dias Junior et al. ( 2016) proposed a novel laboratory procedure to measure kernel fragmentation based on the hydrodynamic separation method of Savoie et al. (2004) in combination with dry-sieving and geometric mean particle size calculation (ASABE, 2007).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites Dias Junior et al. (2016)

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

    • cites Savoie et al. (2004) source
    • cites ASABE, 2007

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Ferreira and Mertens (2005) defined a corn silage fragmentation index (corn silage processing score; CSPS) that provides producers and nutritionists a metric for determining the effectiveness of crop processing rolls during harvest.

    “Ferreira and Mertens (2005) defined a corn silage fragmentation index (corn silage processing score; CSPS) that provides producers and nutritionists a metric for determining the effectiveness of crop processing rolls during harvest.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Ferreira and Mertens (2005) source

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    The WI-OS method may limit human error but requires a heavy (>225 kg) and large (102 × 64 × 145 cm) piece of equipment, which precludes its use on-farm.

    “Although this method may limit human error, it requires a heavy (>225 kg) and large (102 × 64 × 145 cm, length × width × height) piece of equipment, which precludes its use on-farm (Maulfair and Heinrichs, 2012).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Maulfair and Heinrichs, 2012 source

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Guidelines commonly used for CSPS suggest a sample with greater than 70% being optimal processing, 50 to 69% being sufficient processing, and below 50% being suboptimal processing.

    “Guidelines commonly used for CSPS suggest a sample with greater than 70% being optimal processing, 50 to 69% being sufficient processing, and below 50% being suboptimal processing (Shinners and Holmes, 2013).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Shinners and Holmes, 2013

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Breaking the corn kernels increases digestibility and available starch, which in turn improve milk production and feed efficiency by dairy cows.

    “Breaking the corn kernels increases digestibility and available starch, which in turn improve milk production and feed efficiency by dairy cows.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Kononoff et al. (2003a) modified the PSPS method and assessed the effect of moisture content of the TMR when analyzed.

    “Kononoff et al. (2003a) modified this method and assessed the effect of moisture content of the TMR when analyzed.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Kononoff et al. (2003a)

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    A strong relationship (R2 = 0.62) between the PSPS and the WI-OS procedures to determine mean particle length in whole-plant corn silage was observed, suggesting that mean particle length can be measured adequately on-farm with the PSPS.

    “A strong relationship (R 2 = 0.62) between the PSPS and the WI-OS procedures to determine MPL in WPCS was observed by Salvati et al. (2015), suggesting that MPL can be measured adequately on-farm with the PSPS.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Salvati et al. (2015)

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    Maturity at harvest remains an important factor in silage production, because negative effects of late maturity on nutrient digestibility are not offset by modern hybrids.

    “Maturity at harvest remains an important factor in silage production, because negative effects of late maturity on nutrient digestibility are not offset by modern hybrids.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Utilizing image analysis techniques for determination of particle size distribution of the kernel portion of whole-plant corn silage in-field during harvest could provide information about the performance of the crop-processing rolls.

    “Therefore, utilizing image analysis techniques for determination of particle size distribution of the kernel portion of WPCS in-field during harvest could provide information about the performance of the crop-processing rolls.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    The hydrodynamic separation method was effective at separating grain from stover in fresh whole-plant corn silage, but drying the samples before water separation yielded a more complete separation.

    “This method was effective at separating grain from stover in fresh WPCS, but drying the WPCS samples before water separation yielded a more complete separation.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Savoie et al. (2004) source

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisenone given

    Multiple types of processing rolls exist, and roll surface geometry and machine settings change the physical characteristics of whole-plant corn silage.

    “Multiple types of processing rolls exist, and roll surface geometry and machine settings change the physical characteristics of the WPCS.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Incorporation of outer surface area measurements in chopped forage may enhance the understanding of fiber digestibility and effectiveness in dairy cattle diets.

    “Incorporation of outer surface area measurements in chopped forage may enhance the understanding of fiber digestibility and”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    The standard method accepted by agricultural engineers for determination of mean particle length of chopped forages is the Wisconsin Oscillating Particle Separator (WI-OS).

    “Alternatively, the standard method accepted by agricultural engineers for determination of MPL of chopped forages is the Wisconsin Oscillating Particle Separator (WI-OS; S424.1, ASABE, 2007).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites S424.1, ASABE, 2007

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Ferreira and Mertens (2005) suggested that CSPS represents the proportion of kernels that are broken into at least one-fourth of a kernel.

    “Ferreira and Mertens (2005) suggested that CSPS represents the proportion of kernels that are broken into at least onefourth of a kernel.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Ferreira and Mertens (2005) source

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).

    Interpretationreasoning

    Implementing the image-analysis method in a usable format, such as a smartphone application, would provide the capability of crop processor performance assessment in-field without the need for sieve analysis.

    “Implementing this method in a usable format, such as a smartphone application, would provide the capability of crop processor performance assessment in-field without the need for sieve analysis.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisenone given

    The efficacy of kernel processing in whole-plant corn silage is variable and can be influenced by several factors.

    “As mentioned, the efficacy of kernel processing in WPCS is variable and can be influenced by several factors; thus, methods to evaluate the adequacy of kernel processing in WPCS are critical.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Heinrichs (2013) suggested the 4-mm sieve retains small forage particles with potential high fiber concentration and is representative of particles typically entrapped in the ruminal mat but could be easily digested.

    “Heinrichs (2013) suggested this novel sieve retains small forage particles with potential high fiber concentration and is representative of particles typically entrapped in the ruminal mat but could be easily digested.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Heinrichs, 2013

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    The 1.18-mm sieve was replaced with a 4-mm sieve.

    “Recently, the 1.18-mm sieve was replaced with a 4-mm sieve (Heinrichs, 2013).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Heinrichs, 2013

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisenone given

    The CSPS methodology is widely used in the dairy industry and utilizes sieves to separate the corn kernels from the plant material in a vertical shaker.

    “This methodology is widely used in the dairy industry and utilizes sieves to separate the corn kernels from the plant material in a vertical shaker.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    Improvements of current laboratory methods may enhance modeling of starch digestibility and physically effective neutral detergent fiber in whole-plant corn silage.

    “In addition, improvements of current laboratory methods may enhance modeling of starch digestibility and peNDF in WPCS and further research is warranted.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

    Premisenone given

    Whole-plant corn silage has been shown to be an effective feed for dairy cattle.

    “Whole-plant corn silage has been shown to be an effective feed for dairy cattle.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    Although longer theoretical length of cut of the plant portion of whole-plant corn silage provides benefit to rumen health in dairy cows, benefits on lactation performance are minimal.

    “Although longer TLOC of the plant portion of the WPCS provides benefit to rumen health in dairy cows, benefits on lactation performance are minimal.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationcitation

    Further application of image analysis technology for real-time assessment could eliminate sieving analysis and enhance the process of silage harvesting.

    “In addition, further application of this technology for realtime assessment could eliminate sieving analysis and enhance the process of silage harvesting.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Variation in mean particle length may also be influenced by knife sharpness and knife to shear bar clearance, ratio of kernel to stover, and maturity at harvest.

    “Variation in MPL may also be influenced by knife sharpness and knife to shear bar clearance (Shinners, 2003), ratio of kernel to stover (Mertens, 2005), and maturity at harvest (Shinners et al., 2000;Johnson et al., 2002a).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites Shinners, 2003 source
    • cites Mertens, 2005

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

    • cites Shinners et al., 2000; Johnson et al., 2002a

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    A guide for on-farm implementation of the hydrodynamic separation method was developed by Shinners and Holmes (2013).

    “A guide for on-farm implementation of this hydrodynamic separation method was developed by Shinners and Holmes (2013) and its adoption by dairy farmers, nutritionists, and custom harvesters is advised.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites Shinners and Holmes (2013)

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Interpretationreasoning

    By using these real-time techniques, any errors in the crop processing roll adjustment could be corrected during harvest to maintain feed quality and harvest efficiency.

    “By using these real-time techniques, any errors in the crop processing roll adjustment could be corrected during harvest to maintain feed quality and harvest efficiency.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

    Premisenone given

    It is well established that processing whole-plant corn silage during harvest with counter-rotating rolls reduces the particle size of the kernel fraction contained within.

    “It is well established that processing the WPCS during harvest with counter-rotating rolls reduces the particle size of the kernel fraction contained within.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
73 of 73

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Whole-plant corn silage has become the predominant forage used in dairy cattle diets worldwide.

    “Whole-plant corn silage (WPCS) has become the predominant forage used in dairy cattle diets worldwide.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    A review of research trials describing and summarizing findings on recent technological advancements for corn silage harvesting is unavailable.

    “Although these developments have garnered a lot of interest by dairy farmers and corn growers, a review of research trials describing and summarizing these findings is unavailable.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    The forage component of lactating dairy cow diets is fed primarily to provide adequate physically effective NDF.

    “The forage component of lactating dairy cow diets is fed primarily to provide adequate peNDF.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Experiments evaluating the effects of replacing whole-plant corn silage or high-cut whole-plant corn silage with toplage in dairy cattle diets are unavailable in the literature.

    “To our knowledge, experiments evaluating the effects of replacing WPCS or high-cut WPCS with toplage in dairy cattle diets are unavailable in the literature.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Optimal kernel processing can be achieved regardless of the type of chopper or processor used.

    “Optimal kernel processing can be achieved regardless of the type of chopper or processor used.”

  • The authors state this as an assumption.

    The use of a single sieve to determine degree of kernel processing assumes that all particles passing through this sieve are equal.

    “The use of a single sieve to determine degree of kernel processing leads to the assumption that all particles passing through this sieve are equal.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Manipulation of theoretical length of cut at harvest is a common practice in an attempt to improve physically effective neutral detergent fiber of whole-plant corn silage.

    “Manipulation of TLOC at harvest is a common practice in an attempt to improve peNDF of WPCS.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Visual evaluation of kernel breakage at harvest is drastically improved by the absence of the stover fraction.

    “Visual evaluation of kernel breakage at harvest is drastically improved by the absence of the stover fraction.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Assessment of whole-plant corn physical properties during harvest provides farmers, nutritionists, and custom harvesters the ability to check the forage harvester settings to ensure high silage quality is achieved and consistency is maintained.

    “Assessment of whole-plant corn physical properties during harvest provides farmers, nutritionists, and custom harvesters the ability to check the forage harvester settings to ensure high silage quality is achieved and consistency is maintained.”
9 of 9

Claims other papers make about this one

Each is checked against this paper’s own text: does it say what the citing paper says it does?

Cites

Flagged first, then by citations

Research works printed but not linked: 6

  1. Ferraretto, 2015, Effect of ensiling on kernel processing score in whole-plant corn silage harvested with varied processors and settings, J. Dairy Sci., 98, 689
  2. Ferraretto, 2017, Influence of plant population, hybrid relative maturity and cutting height on yield, nutrient content and digestibility in whole-plant corn forage, J. Dairy Sci., 100, 150
  3. Mertens, D. R. 2005. Particle size, fragmentation index, and effective fiber: Tools for evaluating the physical attributes of corn silages. Pages 211–220 in Proc. Four-State Dairy Nutr. Mgmt. Conf., Dubuque, IA.
  4. Salvati, G. G. S., L. F. Ferraretto, G. S. Dias Junior, and R. D. Shaver. 2015. Relationship between theoretical length of cut and mean particle length in whole-plant corn silage. Pages 158–159 in Proc. XVII International Silage Conference, Piracicaba, SP, Brazil. Luiz de Queiroz College of Agriculture, University of São Paulo (ESALQ), Piracicaba, SP, Brazil.
  5. Saxton, 1998, A macro for converting mean separation output to letter groupings in PROC MIXED, 1243
  6. Shinners, 2013, Making sure your kernel processor is doing its job, Focus on Forage, 15, 1

Cited by

Sorted by citations

Related

Authors
Ferraretto, L. F., Shaver, R. D., & Luck, B. D.
Affiliations
  • University of Florida (US)
  • University of Wisconsin–Madison (US)
Corresponding author
Ferraretto, L.F.
ORCID
Venue
Journal of Dairy Science
Publisher
American Dairy Science Association
Published
2018-05
Volume
101
Issue
5
Pages
3937-3951
ISSN
0022-0302 (ISSN-L)
DOI
10.3168/jds.2017-13728
OpenAlex
W2802404597
Semantic Scholar
3fe70a9409fbc9753cab3005ea30dde318397c19
Cited by
240
References
73
Citations by year
2026: 26 · 2025: 43 · 2024: 33 · 2023: 37 · 2022: 35 · 2021: 31 · 2020: 18 · 2019: 16 · 2018: 1
FWCI
2.49
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
Licence
Locations
  • Journal of Dairy Science (publishedVersion)
  • PubMed (publishedVersion)
Topics
  • Life Sciences › Agricultural and Biological Sciences › Agronomy and Crop Science › Ruminant Nutrition and Digestive Physiology
  • Physical Sciences › Engineering › Mechanical Engineering › Agricultural Engineering and Mechanization
  • Life Sciences › Agricultural and Biological Sciences › Agronomy and Crop Science › Crop Yield and Soil Fertility
Keywords
whole-plant corn silage, harvest maturity, cutting height, nutritional value, dairy cow milk production, fiber digestibility, starch digestibility, harvesting efficiency
MeSH terms
Animals, Animal Feed, Cattle, Zea mays, Digestion, Food Handling, Nutritive Value, Silage

About these checks

Registry, retraction, Cites and statistics results are computed, not judged, with one exception: a printed reference that no index lists is read once by a model before it counts as a citation error. Claims are extracted by a model and kept only when their quote appears verbatim in the text; each cited source is then checked, with a model’s help, for whether it says what the claim relies on. Those verdicts can be wrong — read the claim’s quote and the cited source before relying on one.

Claims read by deepseek-v4.1-flash under definition version 3 (extract-v3) on 2026-10-11.

Classified by jev-1.13-20260917 (gold-guideline-v0.2) on 2026-10-11.

Cited sources are checked by gpt-6-sol.

Statistics and arithmetic are recomputed, not judged.

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