Enhance Milk Production Research Articles

Effect of Consuming Papaya Leaves, Almond Milk, Green Beans, Moringa Leaves, Ajwa Dates, Soy Milk, and Fennel Leaves on Breast Milk Production in Postpartum Mothers

Exclusive breastfeeding rates are often low due to suboptimal breast milk production, which impedes infants' nutritional needs. This issue is frequently attributed to poor maternal nutrition, unbalanced diets, and irregular food consumption. Breast milk production relies on hormonal changes, notably the dominance of prolactin over progesterone and estrogen during childbirth. To address this, a study was conducted to evaluate the impact of specific foods boiled papaya leaves, almond milk, green beans, moringa leaves, ajwa dates, soy milk, and fennel leaves—on breast milk production. Employing a quasi-experimental design with a one-group pretest-posttest approach, the study involved 56 postpartum mothers whose milk production was substandard. These participants were selected in March 2023 using purposive non-probability sampling. A paired t-test was performed for bivariate analysis. Results indicated a significant improvement in milk production, with a p-value of 0.000, demonstrating that the consumption of these foods positively affects lactation. Consequently, it is recommended that breastfeeding mothers incorporate these foods into their diet to enhance milk production and support exclusive breastfeeding. Regular consumption of these specific foods can help meet infants' nutritional needs more effectively.

Effects of alpha-lipoic acid on productive performance, immunity, antioxidation and serum metabolism in Holstein cows

Abstract The aim of this study was to investigate the antioxidant effect of alpha-lipoic acid (α-LA) in dairy cows and its metabolic mechanism. Thirty Holstein cows weighing 550 ± 25 kg, 200 ± 15 days of lactation and calving 2–3 times were randomly divided into three groups, ten cows in each group. Different doses of α-LA were added based on body weight: 0 (CTL), 30 (LA-L) and 60 (LA-H) mg/kg per head per day; 7 days adaptation period, 30 days formal period. Milk production was recorded daily during the test period. Milk and blood samples were collected on the last day. ELISA kits and automatic biochemical analyser were used to detect the indicators in blood; serum metabolites were detected and analysed by non-target metabolomics. The results of the study showed that the addition of α-LA significantly increased milk yield; blood concentrations for HDL, triglyceride, cortisol and triiodothyronine were significantly elevated; and levels of glutathione reductase and nitric oxide synthase were significantly reduced in LA-L group as compared to CTL group. The concentrations of IL-1β, IL-2, TNF-α, IgG and IgA were significantly higher after supplementation with α-LA. Metabolomics analysis revealed 13 and 15 differential metabolites each in positive or negative modes. Methylmalonic acid levels were significantly higher following α-LA supplementation compared to CTL group, as were D-lactose, D-maltose and oleanolic acid levels in LA-L group. In summary, α-LA can enhance milk production, improve antioxidant capacity and immunity, and is more beneficial for animal production and economic benefits at 30 mg/kg.

Enhancing oxytocin and prolactin levels to address oligogalactia through emotional management and massage in working mothers.

Emotional management, combined with oxytocin massage and breast care, offers a comprehensive approach to boost prolactin release, enhance milk production, and improve breastfeeding outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of combining emotional management with oxytocin massage and breast care in increasing oxytocin and prolactin hormone levels to address oligogalactia in working postpartum mothers. A quasi-experimental study was conducted at Kudus Community Health Center, Kudus Regency, Central Java, Indonesia, from January to March 2024. A total of 93 postpartum mothers were randomly assigned to three groups: (1) emotional management with oxytocin massage; (2) emotional management with breast care; and (3) lactation education only. Blood samples were collected before and after the interventions to measure oxytocin and prolactin levels. The present study found that emotional management combined with oxytocin massage significantly increased oxytocin levels from 505.0±264.0 pg/mL to 600.0±231.3 pg/mL (mean difference: 103 pg/mL; p=0.002) and prolactin levels from 191.0±67.3 ng/mL to 233.0±86.8 ng/mL (mean difference: 27 ng/mL; p=0.001). The emotional management and breast care group showed a smaller increase in oxytocin (362.0±175.1 pg/mL to 418.0±185.1 pg/mL; mean difference: 23 pg/mL; p=0.048) and a significant increase in prolactin (195.0±48.8 ng/mL to 255.0±82.3 ng/mL; mean difference: 38 ng/mL; p=0.049). In contrast, the lactation education group showed no significant changes in oxytocin (p=0.756) or prolactin levels (p=0.341). In conclusion, emotional management combined with oxytocin massage significantly increased both oxytocin and prolactin levels, suggesting that integrating emotional management and oxytocin massage may be an effective strategy for postpartum lactation support.

A comprehensive review on genomic insights and advanced technologies for mastitis prevention in dairy animals.

Mastitis is a multi-etiological disease that significantly impacts milk production and reproductive efficiency. It is highly prevalent in dairy populations subjected to intensive selection for higher milk yield and where inbreeding is common. The issue is amplified by climate change and poor hygiene management, making disease control challenging. Key obstacles include antibiotic resistance, maximum residue levels, horizontal gene transfer, and limited success in breeding for resistance. Predictive genomics offers a promising solution for mastitis prevention by identifying genetic traits linked with susceptibility to mastitis. This review compiles the research and findings on genomics and its allied approaches, such as pan-genomics, epigenetics, proteomics, and transcriptomics, for diagnosing, understanding, and treating mastitis. In dairy production, artificial intelligence (AI), particularly deep learning (DL) techniques like convolutional neural networks (CNNs), has demonstrated significant potential to enhance milk production and improve farm profitability. It highlights the integration of advanced technologies like machine learning (ML), CRISPR, and pan-genomics to improve our knowledge of mastitis epidemiology, pathogen evolution, and the development of more effective diagnostic, preventive and therapeutic strategies for dairy herds. Genomic advancements provide critical insights into the complexities of mastitis, offering new avenues for understanding its dynamics. Integrating these findings with key predisposing factors can drive targeted prevention and more effective disease management.

Genetic and Phenotypic Correlations between Production and Reproduction Traits in Frieswal Cattle under Field Progeny Testing Programme

Aim: To estimate the genetic and phenotypic correlations in production and reproduction traits in Frieswal Cattle under FPT. Place and Duration of Study: G B Pant University of Agricultural and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, India, Between March, 2023 to March, 2024. Methodology: The present study was conducted on Frieswal cattle, a synthetic breed, using data from 1163 first lactation records, progenies of 67 sires, spread over period of nine years (2013-2021) as part of an ongoing field progeny testing programme at GBPUA&T, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand. The study aimed to estimate genetic and phenotypic correlations among various production and reproduction traits, such as test day peak yield (TDPY), first lactation 305-days milk yield (FL305D-MY), fat percentage (FP), first lactation length (FLL), age at sexual maturity (ASM), age at first calving (AFC), gestation period (GP), first calving interval (FCI), first service period (FSP), and number of services per conception (NSPC).The data were analyzed using WOMBAT software. Results: The study revealed that age at first service (ASM) and age at first calving (AFC) had very high genetic (0.99) and phenotypic (0.99) correlations, suggesting they were influenced by the same genes. A strong genetic correlation (0.71) between ASM and gestation period (GP) indicates a close association, while the negative correlation between ASM and total days to peak yield (TDPY) (-0.76) suggests younger cows reach higher peak yields. ASM’s negative genetic correlation (-0.57) with first lactation 305-days milk yield (FL305D-MY) implied that selecting for earlier maturity could enhance milk production. Positive correlation between ASM and reproductive traits (FCI, FSP, NSPC, and FDP) were observed, while FL305D-MY showed high negative correlation with traits like FLL and FP but positive phenotypic correlation with FLL, FCI, and FSP. Additionally, there were varied genetic correlation among FCI, FSP, NSPC and FDP, highlighting complex inter-trait relationships. Conclusions: The present study highlighted the potential of Frieswal herd for selective breeding to improve both milk production and reproductive efficiency. By focusing on traits like age at sexual maturity (ASM), age at first calving (AFC), and milk yield indicators such as test day peak yield (TDPY) and first lactation 305-days milk yield (FL305D-MY), breeders can target genetically associated traits for enhanced overall productivity. These findings provide a valuable foundation for future genetic improvement strategies in Frieswal cattle.

Development of Biscuits from Winged Beans (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus L.) as a Primary Source for Milk Production

Background: The high prevalence of stunting, notably in Aceh at 31.2%, highlights the urgent requirement for effective nutrition interventions. Utilizing local resources like winged bean flour in food products can play a vital role in enhancing maternal and infant health, addressing malnutrition, and improving breastfeeding outcomes Objective: This study aims to develop biscuits from winged beans (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus L.) as a primary source for enhancing milk production. Winged beans are known to be rich in protein and essential nutrients for the health of breastfeeding mothers. Methodology: This study employs a true experimental design involving clinical trials on rabbits, proximate analysis, and sensory acceptance testing. In the first year, the focus is on developing winged bean biscuit formulas, conducting nutritional and contamination tests, and measuring weight and milk volume in animal trials. The research will take place from March to August 2024 at various locations, including the Nutrition Department at Aceh Health Polytechnic and Syiah Kuala University. In this research, biscuits were produced with varying additions of winged bean flour at 0%, 10%, 15%, and 20% in the biscuit recipe. Results: The results indicate that biscuits containing winged bean flour can increase milk production in female rabbits and show significant weight gain after biscuit consumption. Proximate analysis reveals good nutritional content, while testing for harmful metal contamination ensures product safety. Organoleptic acceptance testing shows that these biscuits are well-received by consumers. These findings affirm the potential of winged beans as a local food source that can support the health of mothers and children, contributing to efforts to combat malnutrition in Indonesia. Conclusion:. Biscuit made from winged bean flour can enhance milk production and weight gain in female rabbits, while offering good nutritional content and being free from contamination. These findings support the potential of winged beans as a local food source to address malnutrition in Indonesia.

Enhancing oxytocin and prolactin levels to address oligogalactia through emotional management and massage in working mothers

Emotional management, combined with oxytocin massage and breast care, offers a comprehensive approach to boost prolactin release, enhance milk production, and improve breastfeeding outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of combining emotional management with oxytocin massage and breast care in increasing oxytocin and prolactin hormone levels to address oligogalactia in working postpartum mothers. A quasi-experimental study was conducted at Kudus Community Health Center, Kudus Regency, Central Java, Indonesia, from January to March 2024. A total of 93 postpartum mothers were randomly assigned to three groups: (1) emotional management with oxytocin massage; (2) emotional management with breast care; and (3) lactation education only. Blood samples were collected before and after the interventions to measure oxytocin and prolactin levels. The present study found that emotional management combined with oxytocin massage significantly increased oxytocin levels from 505.0±264.0 pg/mL to 600.0±231.3 pg/mL (mean difference: 103 pg/mL; p=0.002) and prolactin levels from 191.0±67.3 ng/mL to 233.0±86.8 ng/mL (mean difference: 27 ng/mL; p=0.001). The emotional management and breast care group showed a smaller increase in oxytocin (362.0±175.1 pg/mL to 418.0±185.1 pg/mL; mean difference: 23 pg/mL; p=0.048) and a significant increase in prolactin (195.0±48.8 ng/mL to 255.0±82.3 ng/mL; mean difference: 38 ng/mL; p=0.049). In contrast, the lactation education group showed no significant changes in oxytocin (p=0.756) or prolactin levels (p=0.341). In conclusion, emotional management combined with oxytocin massage significantly increased both oxytocin and prolactin levels, suggesting that integrating emotional management and oxytocin massage may be an effective strategy for postpartum lactation support.

Effects of Using Mechanical Brushes on the Productive Performance of Dairy Cows

Intensive farming can reduce production costs and maximize animal production efficiency; however, it also causes many adverse effects on the welfare of dairy cows. A mechanical brush is an automated grooming device that promotes the grooming behavior of dairy cattle, thereby helping to alleviate stress. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of using mechanical brushes on the production performance of dairy cows by comprehensively analyzing their milk production, health status, and reproductive performance. The cows were assigned to 6 groups: 109 lactating dairy cows (brush treatment) and 105 controls (without brush treatment), 64 dry milk dairy cows (brush treatment) and 49 controls (without brush treatment), and 198 perinatal cows (brush treatment) and 65 controls (without brush treatment). We found an increasing trend in the daily utility time and usage frequency of mechanical brushes for each cow during the lactating period (7.73 ± 4.02 min/d and 2.90 ± 1.22 times/d, respectively), dry period (15.97 ± 14.16 min/d and 4.21 ± 2.91 times/d, respectively), and perinatal period (25.15 ± 19.05 min/d and 5.45 ± 3.83 times/d, respectively) (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively). The installation location of the mechanical brush significantly affected the frequency of its usage during the different periods. The head was the preferred body part for using the mechanical brush during the lactation and dry periods (59.32% and 44.54%, respectively), while the hip was the main preferred grooming part during the perinatal period (40.17%). Overall, the time, frequency, and preferred body part of dairy cows that used mechanical brushes varied across different physiological stages. Additionally, mechanical brush use in lactating and dry dairy cows significantly improved cleanliness of the body’s surface (p < 0.05) and enhanced milk production of lactating cows (p < 0.01), particularly for cows with four and five parities. Thus, the use of mechanical brushes could improve the production performance of dairy cows and enhance sustainability of large-scale farms.

Genetic improvement and conservation of goats in tropic

Goats indeed have a significant historical and contemporary importance in human civilization, particularly in the realm of agriculture and food production. Their adaptability and widespread distribution have made them crucial for various societies across the world. Goats have played a central role in the Neolithic agricultural revolution, aiding in the spread of human civilization globally. Their adaptability allowed them to thrive in diverse environments, contributing to the sustenance and expansion of human settlements. Goats are highly adaptable and are found in a wide range of geographical regions. Their presence spans across continents, from tropical to temperate climates, showcasing their ability to thrive in various environmental conditions. There is diversity in the production performance of goats based on the region of the world and the specific breeds. Genetic improvement programs aim to enhance economically important traits such as milk production, growth rates and fiber production, thereby increasing productivity and income for goat farmers. Understanding the genetic parameters such as heritabilities and repeatabilities for various traits is crucial for designing effective breeding programs. These parameters provide insights into the genetic potential of goats for traits like milk production, growth and fiber quality. Heritability estimates for reproductive traits, body weight, daily gain and direct and maternal heritability are important for implementing selective breeding strategies aimed at improving overall productivity and efficiency in goat farming. Genetic improvement programs have been implemented in tropical environments to enhance milk production traits in goats. Genetic improvements have also targeted fiber production in goats, with a focus on traits such as grease fleece weight and average fiber diameter. These efforts aim to enhance the quality and quantity of fiber produced by goats for various commercial purposes. Despite the importance of conserving goat breeds with unique characteristics, planned conservation programs in tropical regions are often neglected. It’s emphasized that preserving indigenous goat breeds in their native habitats is essential for maintaining genetic diversity and ensuring future resilience in goat farming.

The Aqueous Extract of Hemerocallis citrina Baroni Improves the Lactation-Promoting Effect in Bovine Mammary Epithelial Cells through the PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathway.

Insufficient milk supply is a widespread issue faced by women globally and associated with a higher risk of health problems in infants and mothers. Hemerocallis citrina Baron, commonly known as daylily, is a perennial edible plant often used in traditional Asian cuisine to promote lactation. However, the active compound(s) and mechanism of its lactation-promoting effect remain unclear. This study aimed to confirm the traditional use of daylily in promoting lactation and investigate its potential active components and underlying molecular mechanisms. Our results showed that the aqueous extracts of H. citrina Baroni (HAE) significantly enhanced milk production, and the serum levels of lactation-related hormones, and promoted mammary gland development in lactating rats, as well as increased the levels of milk components in bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMECs) (p < 0.05). UHPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap-MS analysis revealed that hexamethylquercetin (HQ) is the representative flavonoid component in HAE, accounting for 42.66% of the total flavonoids. An integrated network pharmacology and molecular docking analysis suggested that HQ may be the potential active flavonoid in HAE that promotes lactation, possibly supporting lactation by binding to key target proteins such as STAT5A, PIK3CA, IGF1R, TP53, CCND1, BCL2, INS, AR, and DLD. Cell experiments further demonstrated that HQ could promote cell proliferation and the synthesis of milk proteins, lactose, and milk fat in BMECs. Transcriptomic analysis combined with a quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) revealed that both HAE and HQ exert a lactation-promoting function mainly through regulating the expression of key genes in the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway.

PENGARUH PEMBERIAN SUSU KEDELAI TERHADAP PENINGKATAN PRODUKSI ASI PADA IBU POSTPARTUM

Maternal deaths occur after childbirth in around 60% of cases, and postpartum obstetric care with monitoring eliminates 50% of these deaths. The puerperium is a critical time for mothers. Breast milk is essential for preserving an infant's health and survival. Breastfeeding should begin as soon as possible, ideally in the first 30 to 60 minutes following delivery.The goal of the baby's suction on the mother's nipple is not to extract a large amount of milk. Soy milk or soy beans are commonly available and reasonably priced, and they can facilitate a smoother nursing experience. This study aimed to ascertain whether providing soy milk to postpartum moms could enhance their supply of breast milk. In this work, a case study methodology was combined with descriptive research techniques. Mrs. "D," who is receiving care at Hj. Bunda Halimah Hospital in Batam City, has an enhanced milk production that is measured by using observation sheet with LATCH scores. The results of the study after being given soy milk 2 times in 3 consecutive days with a LATCH score of 9 (good). The conclusion of midwifery care in postpartum mothers by giving soy milk times in 3 consecutive days has an effect on increasing Mrs. D's milk production

Mitochondrial DNA D-loop SNPs unveil molecular signatures of milk production variation in Murrah buffalo.

The Murrah buffalo, pivotal in Asian agriculture, faces challenges in maximizing milk production despite significant breeding efforts. Recognizing its economic importance, this studyinvestigates mtDNA D-loop variations in Murrah buffalo as potential indicators of milk production variability, addressing challenges in maximizing yield despite significant breeding efforts. Analyzing mtDNA D-loop sequences from 50 buffaloes, we categorized them into Low (Group 1), Medium (Group 2), and High ECM (Group 3) groups based on milk yields, fat and protein percentage of a 30-day period data. Somatic cell mtDNA D-loop analysis revealed distinct genetic variations, with significant differences among ECM groups. Group 2 showed higher SNP prevalence, group 3 had more insertions/deletions, and Group 1 exhibited the highest transition frequency. Notably, a consistent "C" deletion at the 714th position occurred in Groups 1 and 3, prevalent in 68% of Group 2. A G-A variation at the 93rd position was specific to the medium ECM group. Negative Tajima D values indicated unique variations in each group, with Group 1 having the highest number, and a specific SNP linked to Group 2 was identified. These SNPs in the D-loop region could impact mtDNA replication, influencing mitochondrial content among animals. Our results provide valuable insights into the role of mtDNA D-loop polymorphisms in milk production traits in Murrah buffalo. Our research highlights the potential for valuable markers of cellular energy efficiency in Murrah buffalo. Exploring diverse cytoplasmic backgrounds opens avenues for mtDNA-based selection strategies, enhancing milk production and optimizing genetic traits for the dairy industry.

Effects of lysine and threonine on milk yield, amino acid metabolism, and fecal microbiota of Yili lactating mares.

The nutritional benefits of mare milk are attracting increasing consumer interest. Limited availability due to low yield poses a challenge for widespread adoption. Although lysine and threonine are often used to enhance protein synthesis and muscle mass in horses, their impact on mare milk yield and nutrient composition remains underexplored. This study investigated the effects of lysine and threonine supplementation on 24 healthy Yili mares, mares at day 30 of lactation, over a 120-day period. The mares were divided into control and three experimental groups (six mares each) under pure grazing conditions. The control group received no amino acid supplementation, while experimental groups received varying daily doses of lysine and threonine: Group I (40 g lysine + 20 g threonine), Group II (60 g lysine + 40 g threonine), and Group III (80 g lysine + 60 g threonine). Supplementation in Group II notably increased milk yield, while Groups I and II showed higher milk fat percentages, and all experimental groups exhibited improved milk protein percentages. Additionally, blood levels of total protein, albumin, triglycerides, and glucose were reduced. Detailed analyses from Group II at peak lactation (day 60) included targeted metabolomics and microbial sequencing of milk, blood, and fecal samples. Amino acid metabolomics assessed amino acid content in mare milk and serum, while 16S rRNA gene sequencing evaluated rectal microbial composition. The results indicated that lysine and threonine supplementation significantly increased levels of threonine and creatine in the blood, and lysine, threonine, glutamine, and alanine in mare milk. Microbial analysis revealed a higher prevalence of certain bacterial families and genera, including Prevotellaceae, p_251_o5, and Rikenellaceae at the family level, and unclassified_p_251_o5, Prevotellaceae_UCG_001, and Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group at the genus level. Multi-omics analysis showed positive correlations between specific fecal genera and amino acids in mare milk. For instance, Prevotellaceae_UCG_003, unclassified Bacteroidetes_BS11_gut_group, and Corynebacterium were positively correlated with lysine, while unclassified Prevotellaceae was positively correlated with alanine and threonine, and Unclassified_Bacteroidales_BS11_gut_group was positively correlated with glutamine. In summary, lysine and threonine supplementation in grazing lactating mares enhanced milk production and improved milk protein and fat quality. It is recommended that herders, veterinarians, and technicians consider amino acid content in the diet of lactating mares. The optimal supplementation levels under grazing conditions for Yili horses were determined to be 60 g lysine and 40 g threonine per day. Future research should explore the molecular mechanisms by which these amino acids influence milk protein and lipid synthesis in mare mammary epithelial cells.

Effect of brewer’s yeast or beta-glucan on breast milk supply following preterm birth: the BLOOM study – protocol for a multicentre randomised controlled trial

BackgroundMany individuals who experience preterm birth struggle with early breast milk supply, which can translate into suboptimal longer-term breastfeeding outcomes. Further investigations into the potential role of early non-pharmacological and pharmacological interventions in improving breast milk production soon after birth is growing. While natural galactagogues, such as brewer’s yeast, are widely perceived by women to be safer than pharmaceutical galactagogues and are taken by many women, evidence to support their efficacy is largely absent. The BLOOM study has been designed to determine the efficacy and safety of brewer’s yeast and beta-glucans, derived from Saccharomyces cerevisiae, when administered soon after birth for increasing early breast milk supply in mothers who have delivered preterm.MethodsThe BLOOM study is a multicentre, double-blinded, randomised controlled trial that will assess if brewer’s yeast or beta-glucan can increase early breast milk production following preterm birth. Target population are mothers of preterm infants born at less than 34 weeks’ gestation who intend to provide breast milk for their infant, are less than 72 h following birth and able to give informed consent. Participants will be randomly allocated into three parallel groups at 1:1:1 ratio (n = 33 per group) to receive either brewer’s yeast, beta-glucan or placebo capsules for seven days. The primary outcome is total expressed breast milk volume over a 24-hour period on day 7 of intervention. Participants and their infants will be followed until the infant reaches term corrected age or is discharged home from the neonatal unit (whichever occurs first).DiscussionThe use of brewer’s yeast as a galactagogue to enhance milk production is extremely common amongst breastfeeding mothers, however, there are no trials evaluating its efficacy and safety. This will be the first randomised controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of two commonly used galactagogues, brewer’s yeast and beta-glucan, compared with placebo in improving maternal breast milk supply following preterm birth. The trial will also evaluate whether early intervention with galactagogues soon after a preterm birth improves longer-term breastfeeding outcomes.Trial registrationAustralian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12622000968774 (registered on 8 July 2022) and UTN U1111-1278-8827.

Influence of supplemental choline on milk yield, fatty acid profile, and weight changes in postpartum ewes and their offspring.

The most intensive nutritional requirements occur during milk production's peak. Ewe milk contains more protein and fat than cow milk. The nutritional factors significantly determine the composition. The liver undergoes high stress during lactation but is relieved by essential nutrients. Choline acts metabolically as a lipotrope. This compound functions in cell structure construction, maintenance, and acetylcholine synthesis. The animal nutrition industry provides choline from various sources, such as synthetic and natural kinds. This study evaluated the influence of two distinct choline sources on dairy ewes' peripartum and postpartum milk production, composition, and offspring growth. Twenty-four Rambouillet ewes, each weighing around 63.7 ± 1.7 kg, aged three with two previous births, spent 30-day pre-partum and post-partum in individual pens (2 × 2 m). They were given different experimental treatments 30 days before and after birth according to a randomized design; no choline (a), 4 g/day rumen-protected choline (RPC) (b), or 4 g/day thiocholine (c). Milk samples for milk composition and long-chain fatty acid (FA) analysis were taken every 30 days during milk collection. Significant differences (p < 0.05) in ewe body weight, lamb birth weight, and 30-day-old lamb body weight were observed at lambing and on day 30 of lactation due to choline treatment. Milk yield was significantly higher (1.57 kg/day) compared to the control (1.02 kg/day) and RPC (1.39 kg/day), due to the herbal choline source. There was no significant difference in the milk's protein, lactose, fat, non-fat solids, and total milk solids content between the treatments. Herbal choline lowers (p < 0.05) the concentrations of caproic, caprylic, capric, lauric, and myristic acids while boosting (p < 0.05) those of oleic and cis-11-eicosenoic acid, the changes influencing long-chain FA levels (p < 0.05). Providing choline from both sources to ewes enhanced milk production and body weight at lambing and on 30-day post-lambing. The herbal choline supplement altered short-chain milk FAs, while representative concentration pathways affected medium-chain ones.

Effect of feeds and hygienic practices on milk production and its nutritional and microbiological quality

Abstract The review emphasizes that factors such as feed type, diet composition, and hygiene standards during milking significantly impact milk yield, composition, and microbial population. A comprehensive methodology was employed to gather relevant literature from diverse sources, including textbooks, academic journals, and databases. The review focused on research articles investigating the impact of feed type and nutrients on dairy cattle milk yield, and quality. The search terms used to organize this article were breed, feed, hygienic practices, sources of microorganisms, and milk production, and by synthesizing findings from these studies; key factors influencing milk production and quality were identified. The review highlights the significance of breed selection, feeding practices, and hygienic measures in dairy farming. Optimizing these factors can enhance milk production, nutritional quality, and microbial safety, ensuring the delivery of high-quality milk to consumers. Overall, the review provides valuable insights into the relationship between animal breed, nutrition, and hygiene practices in dairy cattle production.

5 Rumen microbiome and metabolome in dairy cattle performance

Abstract Cattle rumen microbiome converts fibrous feed to nutrients that directly influence cattle’s growth and performance. Recent research has revealed the composition and function of rumen microbiome can affect many economically important traits in cattle such as feed efficiency, milk/meat yield and quality, methane emission, metabolic health and so on. In this presentation, the research on the assessment of to what extent the rumen microbiome and its metabolites, as well as host metabolites contribute to milk production and quality traits will be focused and discussed. It has been evident that some dairy cows can produce large amounts of milk under the same nutritional and management conditions. Recent research has revealed that in addition to host genetics and diet, parity and days in milk of dairy cows can affect the rumen microbiota, and both core and pan rumen bacteriome can potentially contribute to variations of milk production traits. Additionally, the analysis of rumen metagenomics and metabolomics of dairy cows with varied milk production yield showed that some key bacterial taxa (for example, Prevotella species), and their functions (such as branched-chain amino acids biosynthesis, methanogenesis), some rumen microbial metabolites (mainly amino acids, carboxylic acids, and fatty acids) significantly differed between high and low production cows. Further integrated analysis with serum metabolomics of the cos revealed the varied contributions of rumen microbial composition, functions, metabolites, and the serum metabolites to the milk protein yield of a dairy cow, a potential new trait that can be used for high-quality milk production, respectively. The fundamental understanding of the role of rumen microbiome and its metabolome contributing to milk yield and protein yield traits can provide novel insights into future manipulation of rumen microbiome to enhance milk production and quality.

Prolactin gene (C576A) polymorphism is associated with milk production performance in crossbred Anglo-Nubian dairy goats

Crossbred Anglo-Nubian goats (Anglo-Nubian × native goat breeds), are valued for exceptional milk production and adaptability. In-depth research on these goats is imperative to propel advancements in dairy goat breeds and enhance milk production efficiency within the region. The present study aims to assess polymorphism in prolactin (C576A) gene and determine the influence of different prolactin (PRL) genotypes to milk yield performance in crossbred Anglo-Nubian dairy goats raised from Awang, Opol, Misamis Oriental and Talay, Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental. Genomic DNA was extracted from hair follicles using commercial DNA extraction kit and PCR-RFLP was performed for the genotyping of the C576A polymorphism located in exon 5 of goats’ prolactin gene using Eco241 restriction enzyme. Genotypic frequencies of 0.56 for AA, 0.44 for AB, while allelic frequencies of 0.78 for A, and 0.22 for B were recorded. All populations followed the Hardy–Weinberg principle, except for dairy goats from Farm A located in Opol, Misamis Oriental. A two-way factorial (2 × 4) in a Randomized Complete Block Design was used to evaluate the relationship between genotypes and milk yield performance. AB genotype goats produced significantly higher milk yield traits (average daily milk yield and total milk production) than AA genotype, an indication that the polymorphism in the caprine PRL (C576A) gene influenced milk yield performance in the population of studied crossbred Anglo-Nubian goats. These results have to be validated in other dairy goat breeds.

NATURAL GALACTAGOGUES IN NIGERIA AND THE US: MECHANISMS, EFFICACY, AND SAFETY

Natural galactagogues are substances that are believed to promote lactation by increasing milk production in breastfeeding mothers. This review examines the use, scientific evidence, and regulatory status of natural galactagogues in Nigeria and the US, focusing on their mechanisms, efficacy, and safety. In both Nigeria and the US, various natural substances have been traditionally used to support lactation. These substances include herbs such as fenugreek, blessed thistle, and fennel seed, as well as foods like oats and barley. While these substances have been used for centuries and are believed to have lactogenic properties, scientific evidence supporting their efficacy is limited. In Nigeria, traditional healers and herbalists often prescribe natural galactagogues to breastfeeding mothers to enhance milk production. These practices are deeply rooted in cultural beliefs and are often passed down through generations. However, the scientific evidence supporting the use of these substances is scarce, and their safety and efficacy remain uncertain. In the US, natural galactagogues are also commonly used by breastfeeding mothers seeking to increase milk supply. While some studies have suggested that certain herbs and foods may have lactogenic effects, the overall evidence is inconclusive. Additionally, the regulatory status of natural galactagogues in the US varies, with some substances being classified as dietary supplements and others as foods. Overall, the use of natural galactagogues in Nigeria and the US reflects a cultural and historical belief in their efficacy. However, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms, efficacy, and safety of these substances. Regulatory agencies in both countries should also continue to monitor the use of natural galactagogues and provide guidance to ensure their safe and appropriate use by breastfeeding mothers.&#x0D; Keywords: Natural, Galactagogues, Mechanism, Efficacy, Safety.

Enhancing growth and milk production of dairy buffaloes through home-grown forages and complete nutrient diet

This study aimed to boost the growth and milk production of dairy buffaloes while increasing farmers' income in Nueva Ecija, Philippines. The approach involved utilizing home-grown forages (HGF), such as napier grass and various legumes (Leucaena, Rensonii, and Indigofera), along with a complete nutrient diet (CND). For growing buffaloes, the CND consisted of 23 kg chopped napier grasses, 3 kg legumes, and 1 kg grower concentrates. For lactating buffaloes, the CND comprised 45 kg napier grass, 5 kg legumes, and 2 kg dairy concentrates. Sixty farmers, collectively raising 348 buffaloes, were trained in HGF production and CND preparation. In a 120-day feeding trial for growing buffaloes, a subset of 20 farmers participated, with 10 feeding their buffaloes CND and the other 10 serving as controls. The control group employed traditional feeding practices, involving tethered grazing on native pasture supplemented by cut-and-carry feeding of mixed native grasses. Implementing CND for growing buffaloes resulted in an average daily gain (ADG) of 0.46 kg or an improvement of 53.33% compared to the 0.30 kg ADG observed with traditional feeding. Moreover, CND implementation reduced feed costs, leading to a 98.54% increase in income per growing animal. In a separate feeding trial for lactating buffaloes, another subset of 20 farmers participated, with 10 feeding CND and the remaining 10 serving as controls (traditional feeding). Feeding CND to lactating buffaloes increased daily milk yield from 4.6 kg to 6.0 kg per animal, reflecting a 30.43% improvement compared to those fed with the control diet. This translated to a 41.31% increase in farmers’ income over a 180-day lactation period. The findings underline the effectiveness of HGF production and CND feeding in improving the performance of dairy buffaloes and increasing the financial well-being of farmers in Nueva Ecija, marking a significant advancement in sustainable dairy farming practices.