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Animals
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Factors Affecting Milk Productivity, Milk Quality, and Dairy Cow Health
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Factors Affecting Milk Productivity, Milk Quality, and Dairy Cow Health

A special issue of Animals (ISSN 2076-2615). This special issue belongs to the section "Animal Nutrition".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (1 May 2024) | Viewed by 33110

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Robert Kupczyński

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Environment Hygiene and Animal Welfare, Faculty of Biology and Animal Science, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Chełmonskiego 38c, 51-630 Wrocław, Poland
Interests: dairy science; animal welfare; cattle health; metabolic disorders; nutrition; dairy products
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Michał Bednarski

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Epizootiology and Clinic of Birds and Exotic Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, pl. Grunawladzki 45, 50-366 Wroclaw, Poland
Interests: veterinary sciences; cattle diseases; prevention of cattle; diagnostics; immunology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

In recent years, food safety has become a priority for agricultural policy as well as consumers, while there has been a constant increase in the need for milk and dairy products. Dairy production systems must still provide good productivity and profitability, but also demonstrate a reduced impact on the environment and good animal welfare standards. Increased milk output will require improved feeding and management and an increase in average herd size. Genetic selection is a very powerful tool for achieving lasting gains in dairy cattle performance; however, without proper management of the health status of animals, the productive effects cannot be achieved. Unfortunately, organizational factors on farms, including nutritional errors, increase the frequency of metabolic disorders. Metabolic disorders limit animal physiological efficiency, worsening milk's properties, which reduces milk's quality and technological usefulness. On the other hand, any other disturbance in the health of dairy cows causes a decrease in milk yield and its quality.

Submissions are invited for this Special Issue of Animals entitled “Factors Affecting Milk Productivity, Milk Quality, and Dairy Cow Health” to try and further our knowledge and the possibility of sustainable milk production, based on health, welfare, and economic viability, taking into account the principles of environmental protection.

We are looking for authors internationally who wish to publish their work on cows’ health and factors affecting milk, taking into account the health of cows, productivity and milk quality. In this Special Issue, original research articles and reviews are welcome. Research areas may include (but are not limited to) the following:

  • Milk
  • Milk productivity
  • Dairy products
  • Production system
  • Bioactive compounds
  • Management and welfare
  • Nutrition
  • Feed additives
  • Microbiology
  • Epidemiology
  • Metabolic diseases
  • Therapeutics

We are particularly keen to receive manuscripts examining diverse nutrition systems, including the use of feed additives or innovative solutions to obtain products of the highest quality. We will take into account research on the impact of health and broadly understood nutritional factors, as well as innovative approaches less frequently documented in the literature. With this Special Issue, we hope to be able to provide updated and useful information on the relationship between the health of dairy cows, their milk yield, and milk quality.

The papers published in this SI will, we hope, become benchmark contributions to the scientific literature on factors affecting milk yield and milk quality related to animal health, cited long after they have been written by their authors.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Prof. Dr. Robert Kupczyński
Dr. Michał Bednarski
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Animals is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • dairy cows
  • milk quality
  • feed additives
  • diseases
  • epidemiology
  • welfare

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Editorial

Jump to: Research, Review

4 pages, 463 KiB  
Editorial
Factors Affecting Milk Productivity, Milk Quality and Dairy Cow Health
by Michał Bednarski and Robert Kupczyński
Animals 2024, 14(24), 3707; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14243707 - 23 Dec 2024
Abstract
Milk and dairy products are considered important sources of nutrients in human nutrition due to their content of high-quality protein, minerals, vitamins, and energy [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Factors Affecting Milk Productivity, Milk Quality, and Dairy Cow Health)
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Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review

18 pages, 661 KiB  
Article
Behavior, Intake, Digestion and Milk Yield of Early Lactation Holstein Dairy Cows with Two Levels of Environmental Exposure and Feeding Strategy
by Maria Noel Méndez, Nadia Swanepoel, Peter H. Robinson, Victoria Pons, Alejandra Jasinsky, Maria de Lourdes Adrien and Pablo Chilibroste
Animals 2024, 14(13), 1905; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14131905 - 27 Jun 2024
Viewed by 814
Abstract
Eighty-four autumn (ACS, n = 45)- and spring (SCS, n = 39)-calved multiparous early lactation Holstein cows were assigned to groups of either: (a) grazing + mixed ration (MR) during partial confinement in outdoor soil-bedded pens with shade (OD-GRZ); (b) grazing + MR [...] Read more.
Eighty-four autumn (ACS, n = 45)- and spring (SCS, n = 39)-calved multiparous early lactation Holstein cows were assigned to groups of either: (a) grazing + mixed ration (MR) during partial confinement in outdoor soil-bedded pens with shade (OD-GRZ); (b) grazing + MR during partial confinement in a compost-bedded pack barn with cooling (CB-GRZ); or (c) total confinement fed a totally mixed ration (CB-TMR) in a compost-bedded pack barn. Data were analyzed using the SAS MIXED procedure with significance at p ≤ 0.05. In both seasons, despite behavioral differences (p < 0.05) between the OD-GRZ and CB-GRZ groups (i.e., standing, first grazing meal length, bite rate), the milk and component yields, DM intake, microbial CP output (MCP) and NE efficiency were unaffected by the housing conditions, possibly due to mild weather conditions. The milk yield was substantially higher in the CB-TMR group versus the OD-TMR and CB-TMR groups (p < 0.01) in both ACS (~35%) and SCS (~20%) despite there being no intake differences, without any impact on milk component levels. In ACS, this was associated with a higher MCP, likely due to the higher nutritional value of TMR compared to pasture, which was not the case in SCS. In conclusion, the OD-GRZ group achieved the same milk production as the CB-GRZ group through behavior adaptation, under mild weather conditions, in both calving seasons. The CB-TMR group outperformed the grazing systems in both calving seasons, regardless of the MCP. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Factors Affecting Milk Productivity, Milk Quality, and Dairy Cow Health)
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12 pages, 515 KiB  
Article
Comparison of Antibiotic Use and the Frequency of Diseases Depending on the Size of Herd and the Type of Cattle Breeding
by Robert Kupczyński, Michał Bednarski, Marcin Sokołowski, Wojciech Kowalkowski and Katarzyna Pacyga
Animals 2024, 14(13), 1889; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14131889 - 27 Jun 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1461
Abstract
Diseases are responsible for losses in livestock production by increasing animal mortality and reducing productivity. The administration of antibiotics can help mitigate these negative effects. However, inappropriate use can lead to severe complications, such as raising antibiotic resistance. The purpose of this study [...] Read more.
Diseases are responsible for losses in livestock production by increasing animal mortality and reducing productivity. The administration of antibiotics can help mitigate these negative effects. However, inappropriate use can lead to severe complications, such as raising antibiotic resistance. The purpose of this study was to perform a comparative analysis of antibiotic use and disease frequency over four years, based on the size of dairy farms and the type of farm. The study covered a 4-year period and included medium dairy farms (20–50 cows, n = 13), large dairy farms (>250 cows, n = 8), and large beef farms (n = 8). The collected data involved antimicrobial use but also included farm demographics, animal health, disease frequency, and herd management practices. The criteria used to categorise antibiotics into groups A–D were based on the EMA guidelines. The carried-out study showed that the large dairy cattle farms had the highest antibiotic consumption (18.29 mg·PCU−1), due to the high frequency of diseases, and consequently, the treatment of calf (diarrhoea, lung inflammations) and cow diseases (general treatment and mastitis). Cattle on large beef farms suffer mainly from general diseases caused by maintenance and herd management conditions. The use of restrict antibiotics was, in some cases, unjustified (antibiotics for dry cow therapy). Future studies should consider a larger number of farms, taking into account the given direction of cattle production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Factors Affecting Milk Productivity, Milk Quality, and Dairy Cow Health)
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14 pages, 1328 KiB  
Article
Effect of a Garlic and Citrus Extract Supplement on the Lactation Performance and Carbon Footprint of Dairy Cows under Grazing Conditions in Chile
by Ruchita Khurana, Saheed A. Salami, Roberto Bergmann Poblete, Angela Fischer, Lisseth Aravena Cofré, Viviana Bustos and Bart M. Tas
Animals 2024, 14(1), 165; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14010165 - 4 Jan 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2025
Abstract
Two trials were conducted to evaluate the effect of a garlic and citrus extract supplement (GCE) on the milk production performance and carbon footprint of grazing dairy cows in a Chilean commercial farm. A total of 36 early- to mid-lactation and 54 late-lactation [...] Read more.
Two trials were conducted to evaluate the effect of a garlic and citrus extract supplement (GCE) on the milk production performance and carbon footprint of grazing dairy cows in a Chilean commercial farm. A total of 36 early- to mid-lactation and 54 late-lactation Irish Holstein-Friesian cows were used in Trial 1 and Trial 2, respectively. In both trials, the cows were reared under grazing conditions and offered a supplementary concentrate without or with GCE (33 g/cow/d) for 12 weeks. The concentrate was fed in the afternoon when the cows visited the milking parlour. Consequently, the results of milk production performance in these trials were used to determine the effect of feeding with GCE on the carbon footprint (CFP) of milk using a life cycle assessment (LCA) model. In Trial 1 and Trial 2, feeding with GCE increased estimated dry matter intake (DMI, kg/d) by 8.15% (18.4 vs. 19.9) and 15.3% (15.0 vs. 17.3), energy-corrected milk (ECM, kg/d) by 11.4% (24.5 vs. 27.3) and 33.5% (15.5 vs. 20.7), and feed efficiency (ECM/DMI) by 3.03% (1.32 vs. 1.36) and 17.8% (1.01 vs. 1.19), respectively. The LCA revealed that feeding with GCE reduced the emission intensity of milk by 8.39% (1.55 vs. 1.42 kg CO2-eq/kg ECM). Overall, these results indicate that feeding with GCE improved the production performance and CFP of grazing cows under the conditions of the current trials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Factors Affecting Milk Productivity, Milk Quality, and Dairy Cow Health)
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13 pages, 995 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Metal and Heavy Metal Concentrations on Vancomycin Resistance in Staphylococcus aureus within Milk Produced by Cattle Farms and the Health Risk Assessment in Kurdistan Province, Iran
by Yeganeh Sadeghian, Mahdieh Raeeszadeh and Hiva Karimi Darehabi
Animals 2024, 14(1), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14010148 - 2 Jan 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 6288
Abstract
In today’s food landscape, the paramount focus is on ensuring food safety and hygiene. Recognizing the pivotal role of the environment and its management in safeguarding animal products, this study explores vancomycin resistance in raw milk from livestock farms in the Kurdistan province [...] Read more.
In today’s food landscape, the paramount focus is on ensuring food safety and hygiene. Recognizing the pivotal role of the environment and its management in safeguarding animal products, this study explores vancomycin resistance in raw milk from livestock farms in the Kurdistan province and its correlation with metal and heavy metal. One hundred and sixty raw milk samples were collected from various locations, with heavy metal concentrations analyzed using ICP-MS. Identification of Staphylococcus aureus and vancomycin resistance testing were conducted through culture and the Kirby–Bauer method. This study investigates the relationship between resistance and heavy metal levels, revealing that 8.75% of milk samples contained Staphylococcus aureus, with 28.58% exhibiting vancomycin resistance. Significant variations in arsenic, iron, zinc, sodium, and aluminum concentrations were observed between resistant and sensitive samples (p < 0.01). The increase in arsenic, iron, and aluminum, along with the decrease in zinc, demonstrated a significant association with vancomycin resistance (p < 0.001). Levels of lead, cadmium, mercury, zinc, and iron exceeded permissible limits (p < 0.05). The Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) for cadmium indicated a high non-carcinogenic risk, while the Target Risk (TR) for arsenic fell within the carcinogenic range. Accumulation of heavy metals has the potential to impact antibiotic resistance in milk, underscoring the imperative to control arsenic residues for national safety. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Factors Affecting Milk Productivity, Milk Quality, and Dairy Cow Health)
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11 pages, 999 KiB  
Article
Epidemiological Features of Postpartum Subclinical Ketosis in Dairy Herds in Hokkaido, Japan
by Kyoko Chisato, Takerou Yamazaki, Shuji Kayasaki, Rika Fukumori and Shin Oikawa
Animals 2024, 14(1), 144; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14010144 - 31 Dec 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1381
Abstract
This study was carried out as an observational study in order to determine the prevalence of postpartum subclinical ketosis (SCK) in dairy herds in Hokkaido, Japan. From April 2012 to March 2014, blood β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) concentration was measured once within 3–88 days in [...] Read more.
This study was carried out as an observational study in order to determine the prevalence of postpartum subclinical ketosis (SCK) in dairy herds in Hokkaido, Japan. From April 2012 to March 2014, blood β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) concentration was measured once within 3–88 days in milk (DIM) in 1394 apparently healthy cows from 108 farms to diagnose SCK (≥1.2 mM). In cows within 14 DIM, this was classified as SCK II, and from 15 DIM, this was classified as SCK I. Herds with a combined percentage of SCK I and SCK II of less than 10% were classified as SCK-negative herds, those with percentages of 10–25%, were classified as alert herds, and those with one of 25% or more, we classified as positive herds. The prevalence of SCK in the entire DIM was 17.6%. The prevalence of SCK II (20.2%) tended to occur more frequently than SCK I (16.5%, p = 0.094). The frequency of SCK I was higher at the fourth parity. The number of milking cows in SCK-positive herds was significantly smaller than those of the other two types of herds (p = 0.004). The frequency of SCK-positive herds in tie stalls and with component feeding was higher than for free stall or free barn and with total mixed ration (p = 0.054 and p = 0.002). This study reveals the prevalence of SCK in Hokkaido, Japan, and shows that SCK is associated with parity and the management system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Factors Affecting Milk Productivity, Milk Quality, and Dairy Cow Health)
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11 pages, 1483 KiB  
Article
In Vitro Activity of Quaternary Ammonium in Prototheca Isolated from Clinical Bovine Mastitis Identified by Mass Spectrometry and PCR Sequencing of the cytb Gene Marker
by Marcelo Fagali Arabe Filho, Tomasz Jagielski, Angelika Proskurnicka, Marcos Veiga dos Santos, Carlos Eduardo Fidelis, Felipe Freitas Guimarães, Simony Trevizan Guerra, Sâmea Fernandes Joaquim, Mateus de Souza Ribeiro Mioni, José Carlos de Figueiredo Pantoja, Helio Langoni, Luísa Fernanda García Sanchez and Marcio Garcia Ribeiro
Animals 2023, 13(20), 3286; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13203286 - 21 Oct 2023
Viewed by 1301
Abstract
The in vitro algaecide activity of quaternary ammonium (QA) against Prototheca isolated from bovine clinical mastitis was investigated, in which the clinical severity was scored, milk samples were subjected to microbiological culture, and algal species were identified by molecular typing. A total of [...] Read more.
The in vitro algaecide activity of quaternary ammonium (QA) against Prototheca isolated from bovine clinical mastitis was investigated, in which the clinical severity was scored, milk samples were subjected to microbiological culture, and algal species were identified by molecular typing. A total of 4275 milk clinical samples of different cows from ten large dairy farms were used. Forty-four (1%) samples of cows from three dairy farms yielded growth of Prototheca, of which 88.6% (39/44) were identified as Prototheca bovis and 11.3% (5/44) as Prototheca sp. by MALDI-TOF MS, whereas 100% of the isolates were identified as P. bovis using PCR sequencing of the cytb gene. Among cows for which clinical severity scoring was available, 78.8% (26/33) and 21.2% (7/33) had mild and moderate infections, respectively, whereas no animal showed severe clinical signs. The algaecide activity of QA in Prototheca was observed in low concentrations among all isolates, in 20.4% (9/44) at 35 ppm, 36.4% (16/44) at 17 ppm, and 43.2% (19/44) at an 8 ppm, in addition to activity on three reference Prototheca strains. Overall, the study highlights the predominance of P. bovis as the causative agent of algal mastitis in bovines. Prototheca induced abnormalities preponderantly in the milk and mammary gland tissue of cows, and to our knowledge, our study is the first to apply clinical severity scoring in protothecal mastitis. In addition, the study underlines the activity of QA in low concentrations against Prototheca, indicating its potential use as an antiseptic/disinfectant in milking facilities and dairy environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Factors Affecting Milk Productivity, Milk Quality, and Dairy Cow Health)
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12 pages, 296 KiB  
Article
The Association between Socioeconomic Profiles, Attitudes, and Knowledge of Dairy Farmers Regarding Somatic Cell Count and Milk Quality
by Cristina Simões Cortinhas, Carlos Eduardo Fidelis, Neelesh Sharma and Marcos Veiga dos Santos
Animals 2023, 13(17), 2787; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13172787 - 1 Sep 2023
Viewed by 1255
Abstract
The primary objective of this study was to investigate the association between the bulk tank somatic cell count (SCC) and dairy farmers’ knowledge about milk quality, mastitis control, and their socioeconomic characteristics. Additionally, we estimated the association between the bulk tank SCC and [...] Read more.
The primary objective of this study was to investigate the association between the bulk tank somatic cell count (SCC) and dairy farmers’ knowledge about milk quality, mastitis control, and their socioeconomic characteristics. Additionally, we estimated the association between the bulk tank SCC and bulk tank milk hygienic quality in dairy herds. Bulk tank milk samples from 120 dairy herds enrolled in the milk quality payment program were collected for the determination of the SCC, the total bacterial count (TBC), the preliminary incubation count (PIC), the laboratory pasteurization count (PC), and the coliform count (CC). Based on the bulk tank SCC results, 63 herds were selected and categorized into three groups: (a) low SCC: ≤250,000 cells/mL (n = 16); (b) medium SCC: >250,000 ≤ 400,000 cells/mL (n = 24); and (c) high SCC: >400,000 cells/mL (n = 23). Socioeconomic profiles, attitudes, and knowledge of somatic cell count and milk quality were assessed using previously tested questionnaires, which were used to interview the herd managers of the 63 selected dairy herds. Among the findings, 87.0% of the dairy herds had an SCC < 400 × 103 cells/mL, and presented milk production as the main economic activity of the farm, whereas only 47.0% of dairy herds with an SCC > 400 × 103 cells/mL had milk production as the main economic activity of the farm (p < 0.031). In a total of 95% of the selected herds (n = 60), milking machines were used, with pipeline milking machines being more predominant, accounting for 70.8% in herds with a medium somatic cell count (SCC) and 78.3% in herds with a high SCC, as opposed to herds with a low SCC at 50% (p < 0.031). The frequency of dairy producers’ awareness of the maximum legal requirements for the bulk tank SCC and TBC was higher in herds with a higher SCC than in herds with a medium SCC. In conclusion, the results of this study indicate a significant association between the bulk tank somatic cell count (SCC) and dairy farmers’ knowledge about milk quality, mastitis control, and socioeconomic characteristics. These findings emphasize the importance of knowledge and the socioeconomic profiles of dairy farms in maintaining and enhancing milk quality in dairy herds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Factors Affecting Milk Productivity, Milk Quality, and Dairy Cow Health)
22 pages, 3699 KiB  
Article
Associations between Dietary Fatty Acid Profile and Milk Fat Production and Fatty Acid Composition in Dairy Cows: A Meta-Analysis
by Walter B. Gallardo and Izabelle A. M. A. Teixeira
Animals 2023, 13(13), 2063; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13132063 - 22 Jun 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3342
Abstract
This meta-analysis aimed to investigate the effect of dietary fatty acid (FA) profile on milk fat production and FA profile in dairy cows. The study also aimed to develop prediction models using a meta-regression approach. The database included 217 peer-reviewed articles on lactating [...] Read more.
This meta-analysis aimed to investigate the effect of dietary fatty acid (FA) profile on milk fat production and FA profile in dairy cows. The study also aimed to develop prediction models using a meta-regression approach. The database included 217 peer-reviewed articles on lactating dairy cows (n = 12,892), consisting of 515 treatment means. Effect size was assessed using the raw mean differences between diets with supplementary lipid sources and those without. Subgroup analyses were employed to assess heterogeneity. Diets rich in saturated FA (SFA) increased milk fat production and proportion, while reducing de novo FA in milk. Diets high in monounsaturated FA and polyunsaturated FA decreased mixed FA in milk. Most lipid-supplemented diets increase preformed FA in milk, except those rich in SFA. Prediction models were developed using meta-regression. Key predictors of milk fat production included neutral detergent fiber (NDF), dietary myristic acid, and milk production. Milk fat proportion was best predicted by dietary unsaturated FA, NDF, and forage. De novo FA in milk was predicted by dry matter intake (DMI) and dietary FA, while preformed FA was predicted by DMI, dietary oleic and linoleic acids. In conclusion, this study emphasizes the importance of the dietary FA profile in evaluating the effects of lipids on milk fat production and FA profile. Accurate and precise predictions of milk fat production, proportion, and FA profile can be achieved by considering cow production and dietary characteristics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Factors Affecting Milk Productivity, Milk Quality, and Dairy Cow Health)
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11 pages, 1448 KiB  
Article
Udder Hygiene and Mastitis Indicators in Contrasting Environmental Conditions during Half-Time Confinement in Pasture-Based Dairy Systems
by Graciana R. Mendina, Juan Pablo Damián, Ana Meikle, Pablo Chilibroste, Oscar Bentancur and Maria de Lourdes Adrien
Animals 2023, 13(9), 1544; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13091544 - 4 May 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1608
Abstract
This study aimed to compare the association between two types of housing, compost barns (CB) vs. outdoor soil-bedded yard (OD), and udder hygiene and mastitis indicators in Holstein dairy cows calving in autumn (n = 31) and spring (n = 27). [...] Read more.
This study aimed to compare the association between two types of housing, compost barns (CB) vs. outdoor soil-bedded yard (OD), and udder hygiene and mastitis indicators in Holstein dairy cows calving in autumn (n = 31) and spring (n = 27). After calving, cows were transferred to a pasture-based system with half-time confinement in one of two treatments: CB or OD. The udder hygiene score (UHS) was evaluated monthly and on days after rainfall over the entire lactation period. Individual somatic cell count (SCC) was determined throughout lactation, and the prevalence of intramammary infection (IMI) was estimated. Cows confined in OD presented higher UHS compared to cows in CB (p < 0.05) in both calving seasons. After rains, autumn-calving cows in OD were dirtier than on days without previous rain (OR = 1.85, CI 95%: 1.1–3.1; p < 0.02). However, no differences in IMI and clinical mastitis were found between OD and CB cows in either calving season. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Factors Affecting Milk Productivity, Milk Quality, and Dairy Cow Health)
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17 pages, 960 KiB  
Article
Different Conditions during Confinement in Pasture-Based Systems and Feeding Systems Affect the Fatty Acid Profile in the Milk and Cheese of Holstein Dairy Cows
by Lucía Grille, Daniela Escobar, Maria Noel Méndez, María de Lourdes Adrien, Laura Olazabal, Víctor Rodríguez, Ronny Pelaggio, Pablo Chilibroste, Ana Meikle and Juan Pablo Damián
Animals 2023, 13(8), 1426; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13081426 - 21 Apr 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2083
Abstract
The diet of dairy cows influences the fatty acid (FA) profiles of their milk and cheese, but how these are affected by different conditions during confinement in a mixed system (MS:grazing + total mixed ration:TMR) is not known. The aim of this study [...] Read more.
The diet of dairy cows influences the fatty acid (FA) profiles of their milk and cheese, but how these are affected by different conditions during confinement in a mixed system (MS:grazing + total mixed ration:TMR) is not known. The aim of this study was to compare the FAs of the milk and cheese from MS in a compost-bedded pack barns (CB-GRZ) versus an outdoor soil-bedded pen (OD-GRZ) during confinement, and with a confinement system (100%TMR) in a compost-bedded pack barns (CB-TMR). Individual milk samples (n = 12 cows/group), cheese, and pooled milk (MilkP) samples were collected. The saturated FA percentages in the milk and the omega 6/omega 3 ratio in the MilkP and cheese were greater for the CB-TMR (p < 0.0001), while the unsaturated and monounsaturated FA percentages in the milk were lower for the CB-TMR than the MS (p < 0.001). The milk n-3, C18:3, and conjugated linoleic acid percentages were lower for the CB-TMR than the MS (p < 0.001). The milk n-3 and C18:3 were higher for the CB-GRZ than the OD-GRZ (p < 0.01), but no differences were observed between the MS in the MilkP and cheese. In conclusion, CB-GRZ cows during confinement produced better quality milk compared to OD-GRZ cows. However, the FA profiles of the milk, MilkP, and cheese were affected to a greater extent by the feeding management than by the conditions during confinement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Factors Affecting Milk Productivity, Milk Quality, and Dairy Cow Health)
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16 pages, 2280 KiB  
Article
Performance of Autumn and Spring Calving Holstein Dairy Cows with Different Levels of Environmental Exposure and Feeding Strategies
by Maria Noel Méndez, Lucía Grille, Graciana R. Mendina, Peter H. Robinson, María de Lourdes Adrien, Ana Meikle and Pablo Chilibroste
Animals 2023, 13(7), 1211; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13071211 - 31 Mar 2023
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2180
Abstract
Environmental exposure during confinement and feeding strategy affects cow behavior, nutrient utilization, and performance. Milk production and composition, body condition score, non-esterified fatty acids, and beta-hydroxybutyrate were determined during a full lactation in cows submitted to (a) grazing + partial confinement in outdoor [...] Read more.
Environmental exposure during confinement and feeding strategy affects cow behavior, nutrient utilization, and performance. Milk production and composition, body condition score, non-esterified fatty acids, and beta-hydroxybutyrate were determined during a full lactation in cows submitted to (a) grazing + partial confinement in outdoor soil-bedded pens with shade structures (OD-GRZ); (b) grazing + partial confinement in a compost-bedded pack barn with cooling capacity (CB-GRZ); or (c) total confinement (same facilities as CB-GRZ) and fed TMR ad libitum (CB-TMR). Autumn (ACS) and spring (SCS) calving season cows were used for each treatment, except for CB-TMR (only SCS). In ACS, treatments did not differ in any variable, possibly due to mild weather. In SCS, milk production was higher in CB-TMR than CB-GRZ, which in turn produced more milk than OD-GRZ. Differences coincided with heat waves and/or heavy rains (similar grazing conditions and mixed ration DM intake). Milk fat, protein and lactose yield, protein content, and BCS were higher in CB-TMR, without differences between CB-GRZ and OD-GRZ. Cows in OD-GRZ had impaired energy metabolism. Under moderately unfavorable environmental conditions (ACS), when well-managed, OD-GRZ systems could equate to the productive response of CB-GRZ. However, in worse climatic conditions (SCS), performance could be compromised, especially when compared to TMR systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Factors Affecting Milk Productivity, Milk Quality, and Dairy Cow Health)
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10 pages, 244 KiB  
Article
Microbial Fermented Liquid Supplementation Improves Nutrient Digestibility, Feed Intake, and Milk Production in Lactating Dairy Cows Fed Total Mixed Ration
by Sineenart Polyorach, Rutsamee Nampukdee, Metha Wanapat, Sungchhang Kang, Anusorn Cherdthong, Onanong Poungchompu, Pongsatorn Gunun, Nirawan Gunun, Suban Foiklang, Anusorn Thinowong, Yaungyote Jindatajak, Anuwat Lapmee and Thitima Norrapoke
Animals 2023, 13(5), 933; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13050933 - 4 Mar 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2997
Abstract
The purpose of this experiment was to examine the effects of MFL supplementation on feed intake, nutrient digestibility, milk yield, and milk composition in early lactating dairy cows. Twelve, Thai crossbred Holstein Friesian cows in early lactation, 500 ± 30 kg of body [...] Read more.
The purpose of this experiment was to examine the effects of MFL supplementation on feed intake, nutrient digestibility, milk yield, and milk composition in early lactating dairy cows. Twelve, Thai crossbred Holstein Friesian cows in early lactation, 500 ± 30 kg of body weight (BW), were randomly assigned according to a completely randomized design (CRD). MFL supplementation levels of 0, 100, 200, and 300 mL/d were used as treatments. Experimental animals were fed a total mixed ration (TMR) with a roughage to concentrate ratio (R:C ratio) of 40:60, which contains 12% crude protein (CP) and 70% total digestible nutrient (TDN). Rice straw was a roughage source. MFL supplementation levels had no effect (p > 0.05) on body weight change and dry matter intake (DMI) expressed as %BW, whereas DMI expressed as metabolic body weight (BW0.75) was linearly (p < 0.05) increased, with the highest at 200 mL/d in the YFL supplementation group (147.5 g/kg BW0.75), whereas feed intake of organic matter (OM), CP, ether extract (EE), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) did not significant (p > 0.05) difference among treatments. Related to apparent digestibility, MFL levels did not affect (p > 0.05) on DM, OM, and EE digestibility, while apparent digestibility of CP, NDF, and ADF were linearly increased (p < 0.05) when increasing MFL supplementation levels, and the highest (p < 0.05) were the 200 and 300 mL/d FML supplemented groups. BUN at 0 h post feeding did not show a significant difference (p > 0.05) between treatments, while at 4 h after feeding, BUN was linearly (p < 0.05) increased from 0, 100, 200, and 300 (mL/day) MFL supplementation, the values were 12.9, 13.1, 19.7, and 18.4 mg/dL, respectively and the highest was 200 mL/head/day for the MFL supplemented group. MFL supplementation did not affect (p > 0.05) milk fat, lactose, solid not fat (SNF), and specific gravity of milk, while MFL supplementation at 200 mL/day caused a linear increase (p < 0.01) in BUN, MUN, milk yield, milk protein, total solids (TS) and 3.5% FCM when supplement levels were increased. In conclusion, MFL supplementation in early lactating dairy cows could improve feed intake, nutrient digestibility, milk yield, and milk composition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Factors Affecting Milk Productivity, Milk Quality, and Dairy Cow Health)

Review

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18 pages, 528 KiB  
Review
Milk Odd- and Branched-Chain Fatty Acids as Biomarkers of Rumen Fermentation
by Robert Kupczyński, Katarzyna Pacyga, Kamila Lewandowska, Michał Bednarski and Antoni Szumny
Animals 2024, 14(11), 1706; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14111706 - 6 Jun 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1584
Abstract
Cow’s milk and dairy products are the primary sources of OBCFAs, which have beneficial health properties. The goal of this study was to identify the factors that influence the content of OBCFAs in cow’s milk and to indicate which OBCFAs can serve as [...] Read more.
Cow’s milk and dairy products are the primary sources of OBCFAs, which have beneficial health properties. The goal of this study was to identify the factors that influence the content of OBCFAs in cow’s milk and to indicate which OBCFAs can serve as biomarkers for fermentation processes. The content of OBCFAs in milk depends on the species of ruminants, with studies showing that this varies between 3.33% (in goat’s milk) and 5.02% (in buffalo’s milk). These differences also stem from the animals’ energy balance, lactation phases, forage-to-concentrate ratio, and the presence of bioactive compounds in feeds, as well as management practices and environmental conditions. The OBCFAs in milk fat mainly come from rumen bacteria, but can also be synthesized de novo in the mammary gland, making them potentially useful noninvasive indicators of rumen fermentation. The concentration of BCFA is lower in colostrum and transitional milk than in full lactation milk. The proportions of total OBCFAs are higher in first- and second-parity cows. The most effective predictors of the biohydrogenation of fatty acids in the rumen are likely C18:2 cis-9, trans-11, iso-C16:0, and iso-C13:0. OBCFAs have been identified as potential biomarkers for rumen function, because their synthesis depends on specific bacteria. Strong predictors of subclinical ruminal acidosis include iso-C14:0, iso-C13:0, and C15:0. The concentration of ∑ OBCFA >C16 in milk is associated with fat mobilization and serves as a significant marker of the energy balance in cows. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Factors Affecting Milk Productivity, Milk Quality, and Dairy Cow Health)
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18 pages, 3044 KiB  
Review
Progress of Conjugated Linoleic Acid on Milk Fat Metabolism in Ruminants and Humans
by Kun Wang, Zimeng Xin, Zhi Chen, Huanan Li, Diming Wang and Yuan Yuan
Animals 2023, 13(21), 3429; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13213429 - 6 Nov 2023
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2743
Abstract
As a valuable nutrient in milk, fat accounts for a significant proportion of the energy requirements of ruminants and is largely responsible for determining milk quality. Fatty acids (FAs) are a pivotal component of milk fat. Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is one of [...] Read more.
As a valuable nutrient in milk, fat accounts for a significant proportion of the energy requirements of ruminants and is largely responsible for determining milk quality. Fatty acids (FAs) are a pivotal component of milk fat. Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is one of the naturally occurring FAs prevalent in ruminant dairy products and meat. Increasing attention has been given to CLA because of its anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, immune regulation, and lipid metabolism regulation properties, and these benefits potentially contribute to the growth and health of infants. In breast milk, CLA is present in trace amounts, mainly in the form of cis-9, trans-11 CLA. Notably, cis-9, trans-11 CLA improves the milk fat rate while trans-10, cis-12 CLA inhibits it. Apart from having multiple physiological functions, CLA is also a pivotal factor in determining the milk quality of ruminants, especially milk fat rate. In response to growing interest in green and healthy functional foods, more and more researchers are exploring the potential of CLA to improve the production performance of animals and the nutritional value of livestock products. Taken together, it is novel and worthwhile to investigate how CLA regulates milk fat synthesis. It is the purpose of this review to clarify the necessity for studying CLA in ruminant milk fat and breast milk fat. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Factors Affecting Milk Productivity, Milk Quality, and Dairy Cow Health)
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