Lactose Levels Research Articles

Effects of maternal dietary supplementation with antioxidants on clinical status of mares and their foal

BackgroundThe peripartum period constitutes a delicate physiological moment in mares showing a transient state of oxidative stress. Diet supplementation with antioxidants during pregnancy in women appears to have a beneficial effect on mother and neonate health. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effects of diet supplementation with a commercial product containing a mix of antioxidants (Oxyliver®, Candioli) on the length of gestation, weight, and haemato-biochemical parameters in Italian Salernitano mares and their newborn foals. Eight late-term pregnant mares were randomly divided into two groups: Antiox group receiving 30 g/day of antioxidants, and Car group receiving the same amount of carrot powder, from 290 to 320 days of gestation. The following parameters were evaluated in mares: weight, colostrum composition, haemato-biochemical parameters, progesterone, and cortisol blood concentrations, along with blood oxidant/antioxidant status. Assessments were conducted at specific time points: immediately before the start of diet supplementation (T0), 15 days after (T1), at the end of diet supplementation (T2), within 8 h after parturition (T3), and 10 days post-partum (T4). Foal parameters such as weight, haemato-biochemical values, cortisol concentration, and blood oxidative stress variables were assessed within 8 h of birth (TF0) and at 10 days of age (TF1).ResultsPregnancy was shorter in the Antiox group (P < 0.05) compared with the Car group; the foals’ weight increase of group Antiox (40%) was higher (P < 0.05) compared to those of the Car group (28.6%). The colostrum of the Antiox group exhibited higher levels of Brix, total solids, protein, nonfat solids, casein, urea, density, free fatty acids, and glucose, while lower levels of fat and lactose were observed compared to the Car group (P < 0.05). Mares’ serum albumin at T1 and T3, creatinine, glucose, total proteins, total bilirubin, AST, and ALT at T3 were lower in Antiox than in the Car group. No significant differences were found in foals.ConclusionsWhile the limited sample size and the potential variability of evaluated parameters, the observed outcomes suggest that Oxyliver® supplementation in mares might safely decrease gestation length and enhance liver function, thus potentially improving colostrum quality and offspring development.

Effects of subclinical mastitis on automatic milking system data, hematological and biochemical parameters, and milk composition in Holstein cows.

Subclinical mastitis decreases milk production and quality, despite the normal appearance of the mammary glands and milk. Herein, we aimed to investigate changes in factors monitored via automatic milking systems (AMS) prior to subclinical mastitis onset and identify differences in hematological and biochemical parameters and milk composition at subclinical mastitis onset. Thirty-two Holstein cows were divided into two groups according to somatic cell counts (SCC) from AMS and milk composition analysis and the California mastitis test (CMT): healthy cows (controls [CON], n=16, SCC <500×103 cells/ml and negative for CMT) and cows with subclinical mastitis (SCM, n=16, SCC ≥500×103 cells/ml and positive for CMT). Eventually, 121 milk samples from the CON ([mCON], n=60) and SCM ([mSCM], n=61) groups were obtained; SCM samples were categorized as those from non-inflamed (mNQ) or subclinically-inflamed (mIQ) quarters. We evaluated AMS factors; hematological, biochemical, and milk composition parameters; and bacterial isolation. In cows with SCM, milk yield decreased and electrical conductivity (EC) changed before disease onset. Milk EC decreased in mNQ although increased in mIQ (p<0.05). The SCM group had higher globulin levels and lower basophil counts; albumin-to-globulin ratio; and total cholesterol, albumin, and blood urea nitrogen levels than the CON group (p<0.05). The mIQ group had higher SCC but lower levels of lactose and milk solids-not-fat than those in the mCON and mNQ groups (p<0.05). The mCON group had higher levels of milk non-protein nitrogen than the mNQ group (p<0.05). Opportunistic mastitis pathogens were isolated in the mIQ group. Changes in milk yield and EC measured using AMS occurred prior to subclinical mastitis, which may be associated with variation in basophil counts; albumin-to-globulin ratio; and total cholesterol, albumin, BUN, globulin, SCC, milk lactose, and milk solids-not-fat levels at disease onset. These findings provide new insights into early-stage subclinical mastitis.

Influence of Cheese Composition on Aroma Content, Release, and Perception.

The quality of a cheese is determined by the balance of aroma compounds primarily produced by microorganisms during the transformation of milk into ripened cheese. The microorganisms, along with the technological parameters used in cheese production, influence aroma formation. The perception of these compounds is further influenced by the composition and structure of the cheese. This study aimed to characterize how cheese composition affects aroma compound production, release, and perception. Sixteen cheeses were produced under controlled conditions, followed by a quantitative descriptive analysis post ripening. Aroma composition was analyzed using HS-SPME-GC-MS, and a dynamic sensory evaluation (TCATA) was combined with nosespace analysis using PTR-ToF-MS. Image analysis was also conducted to characterize cheese structure. Cheese fat and whey lactose contents were identified as key factors in the variability of sensory attributes. GC-MS analyses identified 27 compounds correlated with sensory attributes. In terms of aroma compound release, 23 ions were monitored, with fat, salt, and lactose levels significantly affecting the release of most compounds. Therefore, cheese fat, salt, and whey lactose levels, as well as the types of microbial strains, play a role in influencing the composition, structure, release of aroma compounds, and sensory perception.

The role of carbohydrate malabsorption syndrome in the pathogenesis of rotavirus diarrhea (a literature review)

The aim – to summarize literature data on the pathogenetic mechanisms of the diarrheal syndrome development in children with rotavirus infection and to determine the role of carbohydrate malabsorption syndrome in it through a complex analysis of literature reviews and empirical studies. Rotavirus infection (RVI) remains the main cause of severe dehydrating gastroenteritis in children under five years of age. One of the most important pathogenetic links of rotavirus gastroenteritis is the development of osmotic diarrhea induced by carbohydrate malabsorption syndrome. Its development is associated with disaccharidase insufficiency and impaired absorption of monosaccharides in the small intestine. Carbohydrate malabsorption syndrome is found in 67.0–98.3 % of children with RVI. Its laboratory manifestations (an increase in levels of fecal carbohydrates and lactose) are observed starting from the first days of the disease, and the maximum indicators are recorded in the period from the fifth to the seventh day. Conclusions. Carbohydrate malabsorption syndrome is observed in the absolute majority of children with RVI, and its maximum severity is noted from the fifth to the seventh day of the disease, being realized mainly due to lactase deficiency. The severity of carbohydrate malabsorption syndrome can be influenced by concomitant pathological conditions, that lead to a decrease in the activity of disaccharidases in the small intestine, and the metabolic activity of the intestinal microbiota.

Evaluating the Impact of an Organic Trace Mineral mix on the Redox Homeostasis, Immunity, and Performance of Sows and their Offspring.

The objective of the study was to evaluate the effects of trace mineral supplementation in sows during gestation and lactation on the performance and health status of sows and their offspring. Sows (n = 30; Landrace × Yorkshire; avg parity = 3.9) were randomly allocated into two dietary treatments. Sows received a basal diet supplemented with 12mg/kg Cu, 30mg/kg Fe, 90mg/kg Zn, 70mg/kg Mn, 0.30mg/kg Se, and 1.5 mg/kg I from an inorganic trace mineral source (ITM) or a blend of hydroxychloride and organic trace mineral source (HOTM) from day 1 of gestation until the end of the lactation period at day 21. Compared to the ITM, the HOTM supplementation increased (P < 0.05) both litter birth weight and individual piglet birth weight. Although not statistically significant, HOTM tended to increase (P = 0.069) the level of lactose in colostrum. HOTM increased (P < 0.05) the concentration of Mn and Se in the colostrum, milk, and serum of sows and/or piglets. Notably, the Zn concentration in the serum of sows was higher in sows supplemented with ITM compared to HOTM. Moreover, HOTM increased (P < 0.05) the activities of GPX and SOD in gestating sows and piglets, as well as increased (P < 0.05) cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-10) in the serum of sows. The immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, and IgM) also increased in sows and/or piglets at certain experimental time points. In conclusion, HOTM supplementation positively affected piglet development and improved the health status of sows and piglets potentially by regulating redox homeostasis and immunity.

Probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG improves insulin sensitivity and offspring survival via modulation of gut microbiota and serum metabolite in a sow model

BackgroundSows commonly experience insulin resistance in late gestation and lactation, causing lower feed intake and milk production, which can lead to higher mortality rates in newborn piglets. The probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) is known to improve insulin resistance. However, whether supplementing LGG can improve insulin sensitivity in sows and enhance lactation performance, particularly the early survival of offspring remains unclear. Hence, we explored the effects and mechanisms of supplementing LGG during late gestation and lactation on sow insulin sensitivity, lactation performance, and offspring survival. In total, 20 sows were randomly allocated to an LGG (n = 10) and control group (n = 10).ResultsIn sows, LGG supplementation significantly improved insulin sensitivity during late gestation and lactation, increased feed intake, milk production and colostrum lactose levels in early lactation, and enhanced newborn piglet survival. Moreover, LGG treatment significantly reshaped the gut microbiota in sows, notably increasing microbiota diversity and enriching the relative abundance of insulin sensitivity-associated probiotics such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Bacteroides. Serum metabolite and amino acid profiling in late-gestation sows also revealed decreased branched-chain amino acid and kynurenine serum levels following LGG supplementation. Further analyses highlighted a correlation between mitigated insulin resistance in late pregnancy and lactation by LGG and gut microbiota reshaping and changes in serum amino acid metabolism. Furthermore, maternal LGG enhanced immunity in newborn piglets, reduced inflammation, and facilitated the establishment of a gut microbiota.ConclusionsWe provide the first evidence that LGG mitigates insulin resistance in sows and enhances offspring survival by modulating the gut microbiota and amino acid metabolism.

Cultivation of a naturally resilient Chlorella sp.: A bioenergetic strategy for valorization of cheese whey for high nutritional biomass production

This study investigated Chlorella's capacity to treat cheese whey (CW) effluent and produce a high-nutritional value biomass, by using a systematic sequential experimental design. Physicochemical analysis of CW revealed its high pollution load, characterized by elevated levels of lactose, phosphorus, and nitrogen, as well as high turbidity due to the presence of whey solids. Screening experiments demonstrated that trace mineral addition and continuous air supply are essential factors for Chlorella biomass production in CW (>800 mg·mL−1). Furthermore, whey solids did not hinder Chlorella growth, with notable biomass production observed even in undiluted CW, demonstrating this microalga's ability to adapt metabolically to the complex environment. Laboratory-scale photobioreactor experiments confirmed Chlorella's ability to produce biomass in CW, outperforming controls (>800 mg·mL−1). Bioremediation potential assessment exhibited significant reductions in organic pollutants (>14 g·L−1 COD), nitrogen (>400 mg·L−1), phosphorus (>140 mg·L−1) and sodium (>650 mg·L−1). CW solids were also removed with Chlorella harvesting (>99 %). Harvested algal biomass was enriched with proteins (>40 g·100 g−1), polyunsaturated fatty acids (>9 % TFA) and pigments, offering potential applications in nutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries. Overall, this study highlights Chlorella's efficacy in CW treatment and biomass valorization, offering a sustainable solution for dairy wastewater management while producing valuable resources.

Changes in the metabolomic profiles of mammary secretion in relation to dam litter size and parity number in Black Bengal goats.

The colostrum is essential for a kid's survival and development. The metabolomic profiles of mammary secretion in goats are limited. This study investigated the metabolomic profiles of mammary secretion in purebred Black Bengal goats and their relationships with litter size and parity number. 500 MHz nuclear magnetic resonance was used to analyze the metabolomic profiles of 43 colostrum and milk samples collected on delivery day and day 7 after parturition, respectively. Fifty-one metabolites were distinguished between colostrum and milk based on heatmap visualization and hierarchical cluster analysis. In colostrum, most compounds were present in significantly greater amounts than in milk. Milk of goats with multiple litter sizes had higher levels of lactose while fat, protein, total solids, solid not fat, and most of the metabolites were lower. The parity number of dams shows no difference in the composition of all components between primiparous and multiparous goats. The components in colostrum were significantly more concentrated than those in milk. The multiple litter sizes in dams led to a significant impact on the composition of lactose and other milk metabolites.

Influence of αs1-casein genetic variant in buffalo milk and rennet coagulation properties

Buffalo milk, recognized for its rich composition, including higher levels of fat, lactose, protein, and ash when compared to cow milk, has been insufficiently studied considering its genetic diversity within the buffalo population in Serbia. This study focuses on the analysis of the CSN1S1 472G&gt;C variant and its potential impact on rennet coagulation properties, critical for cheese production. Rennet coagulation parameters (rennet coagulation time (RCT), setting time (ST), aggregation rate (AR), and gel firmness (GF)), along with fresh curd yield (Yf), were examined in both, raw and high heat-treated buffalo milk. Genotyping results, obtained through Sanger sequencing of blood samples from 30 female buffaloes, revealed the presence of three CSN1S1 472G&gt;C genotypes: GG, GC, and CC. The rheological measurements, conducted using dynamic small amplitude oscillatory rheology (SAOR), indicated significant statistical differences (p&lt;0.05) among the tested parameters for these CSN1S1 472G&gt;C genotypes in both raw and heat-treated buffalo milk. In addition, the influence of genotype on the yield of fresh curd in fresh and thermally treated milk was studied. These results can contribute to optimization in the process of production and processing of buffalo milk, emphasizing the importance of understanding the genetic factors in the composition of buffalo milk and its technological properties.

A simple and rapid ReMALDI MS assay for the determination of lactose in milk

Lactose is an important nutrient but its content in milk products poses concerns for people with lactose intolerance. Thus, a simple, rapid, and high-throughput assay for lactose determination is needed to maintain specified lactose levels during production and in final milk products. Here, we report a reactive matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (ReMALDI MS) method for the determination of lactose in milk products. The selective reactivity and the excellent laser absorption properties of 4-hydrazinoquinazoline (4-HQ) matrix increase the sensitivity of traditional MALDI MS analysis of lactose by 100 folds. After optimization of the method, lactose was detected distinctly in milk without pretreatment. Using xylobiose as an internal standard, the assay accurately quantified lactose in the concentration range of 1.00−700 μg/mL (R2 = 0.994). Due to the high sensitivity and specificity, the lactose content in different types of milk samples was determined successfully, as well as the residual lactose in low-lactose and lactose-free milk.

PSIV-18 Evaluation of lactose level and whey permeate form on nursery pig performance

Abstract A total of 1,512 pigs [initial body weight (BW) = 4.7 kg] were used to evaluate lactose level and whey permeate form on nursery pig performance in a commercial environment. Pigs were weaned at approximately 19 d of age and allotted to 1 of 4 dietary treatments arranged in a 2 × 2 factorial utilizing low or high lactose levels with either granular whey permeate (Dairylac 80, International Ingredients Corporation, Fenton, MO) or spray-dried whey permeate. Each whey permeate source contained 80% lactose. The low lactose diets consisted of 10.00 and 4.13% whey permeate for phase 1 and 2, respectively, and targeted a total lactose intake of 363 g/pig. The high lactose diets consisted of 20.00 and 8.25% whey permeate for phase 1 and 2, respectively, and targeted a total lactose intake of 726 g/pig. There were 27 pigs per pen and 14 replications per treatment. Pigs were fed experimental diets in two phases with feed budgets of 2.3 kg/pig in phase 1 and 5.4 kg/pig in phase 2. Following experimental diets, all pigs were fed a common corn-soybean meal-based diet until the completion of the study on d 42. Pigs experienced flu-like health challenges throughout the experiment. There were no lactose level × whey permeate form interactions for the duration of the study (P &amp;gt; 0.10; Table). For main effects of lactose level, pigs fed high lactose levels had increased (P ≤ 0.024) average daily feed intake (ADFI) compared with pigs fed low lactose levels during the experimental period (d 0 to 21). For main effects of whey permeate form, there were no differences from d 0 to 21. However, overall (d 0 to 42), pigs fed spray-dried whey permeate in phase 1 and 2 tended to have greater (P = 0.080) average daily gain (ADG) and had improved (P = 0.041) gain to feed ratio (G:F) compared with pigs fed granular whey permeate. There were no differences in mortality or removals between treatments (P &amp;gt; 0.10). In conclusion, this study suggests a lactose intake of 726 g/pig increased feed intake compared with 363 g/pig during the experimental period regardless of whey permeate form. Additionally, spray-dried whey permeate improved feed efficiency regardless of lactose level fed.

200 Effects of zinc oxide removal and different nutritional plans on the growth performance, health, and behavior of nursery pigs from different genetic lines

Abstract This study was conducted to investigate the impacts of the removal of zinc oxide (ZnO) supplemented at pharmaceutical levels and different nutritional plans on the growth performance, health, and behavior of nursery pigs from different genetic sire lines. A total of 1,440 newly weaned barrows and gilts were housed into nursery pens with 30 pigs/pen (0.25m2/pig). Pigs were assigned to eight groups following a randomized complete block design arranged on a 2 x 2 x 2 factorial arrangement [Genetic sire line: PIC 337 or PIC 800; ZnO supplementation: 0 or 2,500 ppm; nutritional plan: Control (PIC recommendation) or Treatment (TRT)]. Pigs were fed in three dietary phases (P1:7 d; P2: 21 d; P3: 21 d). The nutrient levels of the TRT for each phase consisted of reduced crude protein (P1: 21 vs. 18.43%; P2: 20.80 vs. 18.73%), SID Lys (P1: 1.40 vs. 1.20%; P2: 0.35 vs. 1.20%), net energy (P1: 2,450 vs. 2,352 kcal/kg; P2: 2,450 vs. 2,377 kcal/kg) and lactose levels (P1: 15 vs. 7%; P2: 7 vs. 5%), and use of calcium formate instead of calcium carbonate for both P1 and P2, and pigs receiving the same diet in P3. Health and behavior were assessed through ear lesion (weekly during P3) and fecal (weekly during P1 and P2) scoring, mortality/removals, and medication control. Growth performance was assessed by individually weighing pigs and recording feed disappearance every week throughout the experimental period. Data were analyzed using a generalized linear model considering pen as the experimental unit. Models included treatments and their interactions as fixed effects, and block and pen within block as the random terms. Pigs fed ZnO showed greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) overall average daily gain (ADG; 495 vs. 456 g/d) and average daily feed intake (ADFI; 681 vs. 633 g/d); and decreased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) diarrhea incidence (DI; 3.64 vs 10.21%) at d 14 after weaning and mortality/removals (2.31 vs. 5.11%) compared with pigs fed no ZnO. No significant differences were detected between the nutritional plans for performance traits (P &amp;gt; 0.05); however, pigs fed the TRT had less (P &amp;lt; 0.05) DI (7.54 vs. 11.43%) at d 7 after weaning than pigs fed the control nutrition plan. Regarding the genetic sire lines, PIC 337 pigs showed greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) overall body weight (26.1 vs. 25.4 kg), ADG (486 vs. 465 g/d) and ADFI (666 vs. 648 g/d); and decreased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) mortality/removals (2.54 vs. 4.66%) and DI (6.92 vs. 12.41%) at d 7 after weaning compared with PIC 800 pigs. In summary, PIC 337 pigs fed ZnO under the control nutritional program showed greater growth performance during the nursery period. This study reaffirmed the benefits of ZnO fed to nursery pigs during the post-weaning period; however, since different countries are banning or reducing the use of ZnO, nutritional strategies should be considered to not negatively impact the health and subsequent performance of nursery pigs.

Effects of feeding pomegranate seed pulp and coconut meal by-products on milk yield, milk quality, and metabolic responses of Awassi ewes and pre-weaning growth.

Feeding by-products, such as pomegranate seed pulp (PSP) and coconut meal (COC), to livestock may enhance production efficiency and increase profits. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of PSP and COC on milk production, body weight change, metabolic response (Exp. 1), digestibility, and N balance (Exp. 2). Twenty-four ewes nursing single lambs were randomly assigned to one of three diets: Control (CON) (n = 8), 7.5% PSP (n = 8), and 7.5% COC (n = 8) of dry matter (DM). Every sheep was born 3-4 days before the start of the experiment. The 1st week of the experiment was devoted to diet adaptation, while the data were collected during the following 8 weeks (Exp. 1). Nine lambs were randomly assigned to one of the three diets for intensive data collection to evaluate the diet digestibility and animal nitrogen (N) balance (Exp. 2). The data were analyzed using the MIXED SAS procedures. The PSP group consumed more DM, followed by the COC and CON groups. For lambs, the final BW, total gain, and average daily gain in the PSP group were greater (p < 0.05) than those in the COC and CON groups. The CON group had lower milk output, total solids, protein, fat, and lactose levels than the PSP and COC groups (p < 0.05). The cost of milk production was lower (p < 0.05) in the PSP and COC diet groups than in the CON group. Blood serum parameters were similar among the dietary groups, except for total cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein, which were higher in the COC group than in the CON group. No differences were observed in nutrient digestibility and N balance. Feeding PSP and COC to nursing ewes appears beneficial because it increases milk production and pre-weaning lamb growth and reduces milk production cost.

Effect of exogenous oestrogen treatment frequency on induction of artificial lactation in pseudopregnant sows.

In this study, we examined whether the frequency of exogenous oestrogen treatment affects the induction of artificial lactation and milk production. Furthermore, we analysed changes in milk components obtained from artificially lactating sows. Pseudopregnant induced by treatment with 30 mg of estradiol dipropionate (EDP) on Day 10 (Day 0 = the last day of estrus) were divided into three groups: those administered 5 mg of EDP once on Day 39 (n = 5), twice on Days 32 and 39 (n = 5) and three times on Days 25, 32 and 39 (n = 6). All animals were treated with prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) on Day 46 for induced lactation. Artificial lactation was induced in 66.7%-80.0% of sows, and the EDP treatment frequency before PGF2α administration had no significant effect on either the induction rate of artificial lactation or the milk yield during the experimental period. The milk composition (levels of crude protein, crude fat, crude ash, lactose and immunoglobulin) did not differ among the groups. In conclusion, the number of EDP treatments prior to PGF2α administration had no effect on either the efficiency of artificial lactation induction or milk production.

Prebiotic Strategies to Manage Lactose Intolerance Symptoms.

Lactose intolerance, which affects about 65-75% of the world's population, is caused by a genetic post-weaning deficiency of lactase, the enzyme required to digest the milk sugar lactose, called lactase non-persistence. Symptoms of lactose intolerance include abdominal pain, bloating and diarrhea. Genetic variations, namely lactase persistence, allow some individuals to metabolize lactose effectively post-weaning, a trait thought to be an evolutionary adaptation to dairy consumption. Although lactase non-persistence cannot be altered by diet, prebiotic strategies, including the consumption of galactooligosaccharides (GOSs) and possibly low levels of lactose itself, may shift the microbiome and mitigate symptoms of lactose consumption. This review discusses the etiology of lactose intolerance and the efficacy of prebiotic approaches like GOSs and low-dose lactose in symptom management.

The Relation between Milk Lactose Concentration and the Rumination, Feeding, and Locomotion Behavior of Early-Lactation Dairy Cows.

This study hypothesizes that higher in-line milk lactose concentrations are indicative of enhanced dairy cow behaviors-including increased rumination, feeding, and locomotion activities-reflecting superior overall health and well-being. It posits that fluctuations in milk lactose levels have a substantial impact on the physiological and behavioral responses of dairy cows, thereby affecting their milk yields and compositions. Each cow's milk lactose, fat, protein, and fat-to-protein ratio were continuously monitored using the BROLIS HerdLine in-line milk analyzer (Brolis Sensor Technology, Vilnius, Lithuania). The RumiWatch noseband sensor (RWS; ITIN + HOCH GmbH, Fütterungstechnik, Liestal, Switzerland) was employed to measure the biomarkers of the rumination, feeding, and locomotion behavior. The measurements were recorded over 5 days at the same time (during morning milking). A total of 502 cows were examined. During these 5 days, 2510 measurements were taken. Based on the lactose content in their milk, the cows were divided into two categories: the first group consisted of cows with milk lactose levels below 4.70%, while the second group included cows with milk lactose levels of 4.70% or higher. Our study showed that cows with higher milk lactose concentrations (≥4.70%) produced significantly more milk (16.14% increase) but had a lower milk protein concentration (5.05% decrease) compared to cows with lower lactose levels. These cows also exhibited changes in rumination and feeding behaviors, as recorded by the RWS: there was an increase in the mastication and rumination behaviors, evidenced by a 14.09% rise in other chews and a 13.84% increase in rumination chews, along with a 16.70% boost in bolus activity. However, there was a notable 16.18% reduction in their physical activity, as measured by the change in time spent walking.

Enhancing Milk Quality and Antioxidant Status in Lactating Dairy Goats through the Dietary Incorporation of Purple Napier Grass Silage.

Oxidative stress resulting from an imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants can cause damage to certain cellular components. Purple Napier grass, a semi-dwarf variety, is characterized by its purple leaves and contains anthocyanins, which provide it with antioxidant properties. This study examined the effects of feeding purple Napier grass ("Prince") silage to lactating dairy goats on blood antioxidant activity, milk yield, and milk quality. Eighteen female Saanen crossbred goats, weighing 52.34 ± 2.86 kg and producing milk for 14 ± 2 days, were systematically divided into three groups based on their lactation period in the previous cycle as follows: early, mid, and late lactation. In a randomized complete block design (RCBD), treatments were randomly allocated to six animals in each block. The dairy goats were fed a total mixed ration (TMR) consisting of the three following treatments: control (100% Napier Pakchong 1 grass silage), 50% (a 50% replacement of the control with purple Napier grass silage), and 100% (100% purple Napier grass silage). The results show that goats who were fed a diet including 100% purple Napier grass silage showed higher levels of certain milk contents, especially with regard to lactose, when compared to those who were fed a control diet, as well as a diet with a 50% replacement of purple Napier grass silage. The somatic cell count (SCC) of these goats was reduced. In terms of antioxidant activity, dairy goats who were fed 100% purple Napier grass silage showed higher levels of enzymes in both plasma and milk, including glutathione s-transferase, total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase, and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical, compared to the control group and the 50% replacement group. The plasma and milk of these goats showed lower levels of malondialdehyde. The dairy goats who were fed a 100% purple Napier grass silage diet showed higher concentrations of anthocyanins, including C3G, P3G, Peo3G, M3G, Cya, Pel, and total anthocyanins in milk, when compared to the control group and the 50% replacement group. The increased replacement of purple Napier grass silage led to significant differences in lactose levels, somatic cell count, glutathione S-transferase, total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical, and the composition of anthocyanins. This study provides evidence to support the use of purple Napier grass silage as a beneficial source of roughage for lactating dairy goats.

“Milk on Ice”: A detailed analysis of Ernest Shackleton's century-old whole milk powder in comparison with modern counterparts

Whole milk powder (WMP) manufactured in New Zealand in 1907 was sent to the Antarctic continent with the Shackleton-led British Antarctic Expedition from 1907 to 1909. This powder was stored at ambient conditions at Shackleton's Hut at Cape Royds, Antarctica, for over 100 yr before a sample was collected on behalf of Fonterra by the Antarctic Heritage Trust. Having spent most of its existence both dried and in frozen storage, any deleterious reactions within the WMP would have been markedly retarded. The composition and some properties of the roller-dried Shackleton's WMP are reported along with those of 2 modern spray-dried New Zealand WMP. The Shackleton powder was less white and more yellow than the modern WMP and was composed of flakes rather than agglomerated particles, consistent with that expected of a roller-dried powder. Headspace analysis showed lipolytic and oxidative volatile compounds were present in the Shackleton WMP, indicting some deterioration of the milk either before powder manufacture or on storage of the finished product. On a moisture-free basis, the Shackleton WMP had higher protein, higher fat (with a markedly higher free fat level), higher ash, and a lower lactose level than the modern WMP. The lysine level was lower in the Shackleton WMP compared with the spray-dried powders, whereas the fatty acid composition was relatively similar. The sodium level was markedly higher in the Shackleton WMP compared with the spray-dried powder, which is probably due to the addition of an alkaline sodium salt to adjust the pH of the milk before roller drying. Lead, iron, and tin levels were markedly higher in the Shackleton WMP compared with the spray-dried powders, possibly due to the equipment used in powder manufacture and the tin-plated cases used for storage. The proteins in the Shackleton WMP were more lactosylated than in the spray-dried powders. The Shackleton WMP had a higher ratio of κ-casein A to B variants and a higher ratio of β-lactoglobulin B to A variants than the spray-dried powders, whereas the αS1-casein, β-casein, αS2-casein, and α-lactalbumin protein variants were similar in all powders. The total phospholipid content was markedly lower in the Shackleton WMP than the spray-dried powders, primarily due to a lower phosphatidylethanolamine concentration. The molecular species distributions within the phospholipid classes were generally similar in the 3 powders. Claims are sometimes encountered that the milk of today is different from that consumed by previous generations. However, this comparative study has shown that the Shackleton WMP was generally similar to modern WMP. Although differences in some components and properties were observed, these were attributable to the manufacturing equipment and processes used in the pioneering years of WMP manufacture.

Characterization of variables related to high stability of raw cow milk.

This research paper analyzes the stability of raw cow milk in the alcohol test and seeks to understand to know the factors that influence milk stability and the occurrence of unstable non-acid milk. Milk samples were collected from the cooling tanks of rural farmers in the state of Paraná twice in summer and twice in winter. The farms were classified according to the production system: pasture with supplementation and feedlot. The following variables were analyzed: stability in the alcohol test, titratable acidity, ionized calcium concentration (iCa), chemical composition of milk, somatic cell count and standard plate count. The results showed that milk stability was greater in winter vs. summer, when the milk contained higher iCa, and in the feedlot vs. pasture system. The Pearson Correlation between variables (ethanol stability, milk composition, iCa, cooling tank temperature, milk volume, number of milking, number of cows milked, fat/protein ratio, distance and travel time) were analyzed. Stability was negatively correlated with iCa concentration and positively with lactose content. Logistic regression of the risk of unstable non-acid milk at 72% alcohol (UNAM72) showed that only iCa and lactose were determinants, while evaluation of the same risk at 78% alcohol revealed iCa, titratable acidity, lactose and milk urea nitrogen as risk factors. Under the dairy farming conditions of Paraná state, the frequency of UNAM72 was low (12.16%) and was higher in summer and in pasture systems with supplementation. In conclusion, in dairy herds bred with high technological level, with adequate nutritional and health management, the frequency of UNAM is low and is related to nutritional management abnd, perhaps, heat stress, factors that alter iCa and lactose levels.

Metabolic Changes in Serum and Milk of Holstein Cows in Their First to Fourth Parity Revealed by Biochemical Analysis and Untargeted Metabolomics

The performance of dairy cows is closely tied to the metabolic state, and this performance varies depending on the number of times the cows have given birth. However, there is still a lack of research on the relationship between the metabolic state of Holstein cows and the performance of lactation across multiple parities. In this study, biochemical analyses and metabolomics studies were performed on the serum and milk from Holstein cows of parities 1–4 (H1, N = 10; H2, N = 7; H3, N = 9; H4, N = 9) in mid-lactation (DIM of 141 ± 4 days) to investigate the link between performance and metabolic changes. The results of the milk quality analysis showed that the lactose levels were highest in H1 (p = 0.036). The total protein content in the serum increased with increasing parity (p = 0.013). Additionally, the lipase activity was found to be lowest in H1 (p = 0.022). There was no difference in the composition of the hydrolyzed amino acids in the milk among H1 to H4. However, the free amino acids histidine and glutamate in the serum were lowest in H1 and highest in H3 (p &lt; 0.001), while glycine was higher in H4 (p = 0.031). The metabolomics analysis revealed that 53 and 118 differential metabolites were identified in the milk and serum, respectively. The differential metabolites in the cows’ milk were classified into seven categories based on KEGG. Most of the differential metabolites in the cows’ milk were found to be more abundant in H1, and these metabolites were enriched in two impact pathways. The differential metabolites in the serum could be classified into nine categories and enriched in six metabolic pathways. A total of six shared metabolites were identified in the serum and milk, among which cholesterol and citric acid were closely related to amino acid metabolism in the serum. These findings indicate a significant influence of blood metabolites on the energy and amino acid metabolism during the milk production process in the Holstein cows across 1–4 lactations, and that an in-depth understanding of the metabolic changes that occur in Holstein cows during different lactations is essential for precision farming, and that it is worthwhile to further investigate these key metabolites that have an impact through controlled experiments.