Lower Milk Protein Research Articles

Effects of dietary amylase and sucrose on productivity of cows fed low-starch diets

Recent studies have observed positive effects of both sucrose and exogenous amylase on the productivity of dairy cattle. Our objective was to evaluate direct effects and interactions of amylase and sucrose on dry matter intake (DMI), milk production, and milk components. Forty-eight multiparous Holstein cows between 70 and 130d in milk were randomly assigned to each of 4 pens (12 cows/pen). Pens were randomly assigned to treatment sequence in a 4×4 Latin square design, balanced for carryover effects. Treatment periods were 28d, with 24d for diet adaptation and 4d for sample and data collection. The treatments were a control diet (36% NDF and 21% starch), the control diet with amylase [0.5g/kg of DM; Ronozyme RumiStar 600 (CT); DSM Nutritional Products Ltd., Basel, Switzerland], a diet with sucrose replacing corn grain at 2% of DM, and the sucrose diet with amylase (0.5g/kg of DM). All data were analyzed with mixed models, including the fixed effects of sugar, amylase, and their interaction, and the random effects of period and pen. Milk data included the random effects of cow nested within pen and pen × period to provide the error term for the pen-level analysis. Dry matter intake was not affected by treatments. Milk yield and milk composition were not altered by the inclusion of sucrose or amylase; however, a tendency for an amylase × sucrose interaction was observed for milk protein content, reflecting slightly lower milk protein concentrations for amylase and sucrose treatments (3.00 and 2.99±0.03%) compared with the control and amylase + sucrose treatments (3.02 and 3.03±0.03%). Solids-corrected and fat-corrected milk yields were not significantly altered by treatment, although the direct effect of amylase approached significance for both variables, suggesting possible small increases with amylase supplementation (~0.5kg/d). Feed efficiency (energy-corrected milk divided by dry matter intake) numerically increased with either amylase (1.57±0.12) or sucrose (1.60±0.12) treatment, but the combination of the 2 resulted in feed efficiency similar to the control treatment (both 1.50±0.12). The inclusion of amylase or sucrose did not affect DMI, productivity, or feed efficiency in mid-lactation cows fed low-starch, high-fiber diets.

Dissolution and reconstitution of casein micelle containing dairy powders by high shear using ultrasonic and physical methods

The effect of shear on the solubilization of a range of dairy powders was investigated. The rate of solubilization of low solubility milk protein concentrate and micellar casein powders was examined during ultrasonication, high pressure homogenization and high-shear rotor–stator mixing and compared to low-shear overhead stirring. The high shear techniques were able to greatly accelerate the solubilization of these powders by physically breaking apart the powder agglomerates and accelerating the release of individual casein micelles into solution. This was achieved without affecting the structure of the solubilized proteins. The effect of high shear on the re-establishment of the mineral balance between the casein micelles and the serum was examined by monitoring the pH of the reconstituted skim milk powder after prior exposure to ultrasonication. Only minor differences in the re-equilibration of the pH were observed after sonication for up to 3min, suggesting that the localized high shear forces exerted by sonication did not significantly affect the mass transfer of minerals from within the casein micelles.

Paratuberculosis: decrease in milk production of German Holstein dairy cows shedding Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis depends on within-herd prevalence

Paratuberculosis impairs productivity of infected dairy cows because of reduced milk production and fertility and enhanced risk of culling. The magnitude of the milk yield depression in individual cows is influenced by factors such as parity, the stage of the disease and the choice of test used. The objectives of this case–control study were to substantiate the influence of the different levels of the within-herd prevalence (WHP) on individual milk yield of fecal culture (FC)-positive cows (FC+) compared with FC-negative herd-mates (FC−), and to estimate the magnitude of the deviation of the milk yield, milk components and somatic cell count (SCC) in an FC-based study. Of a total of 31 420 cows from 26 Thuringian dairy herds tested for paratuberculosis by FC, a subset of 1382 FC+ and 3245 FC− with milk recording data were selected as cases and controls, respectively. The FC− cows were matched for the same number and stage of lactation (±10 days in milk) as one FC+ from the same herd. Within a mixed model analysis using the fixed effects of Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis (MAP) status, lactation number, days in milk, prevalence class of farm and the random effect of farm on milk yield per day (kg), the amount of fat and protein (mg/dl) and lactose (mg/dl) as well as the SCC (1000/ml) were measured. On the basis of least square means, FC+ cows had a lower test-day milk yield (27.7±0.6 kg) compared with FC− (29.0±0.6 kg), as well as a lower milk protein content and a slightly diminished lactose concentration. FC status was not associated with milk fat percentage or milk SCC. In FC+ cows, reduction in milk yield increased with increasing WHP. An interaction of FC status and farm was found for the test-day milk yield, and milk protein percentage, respectively. We conclude that the reduction in milk yield of FC+ cows compared with FC− herd-mates is significantly influenced by farm effects and depends on WHP class. Owners of MAP-positive dairy herds may benefit from the reduction in WHP not only by reducing number of infected individuals but also by diminishing the individual losses in milk production per infected cow, and therefore should establish control measures.

Fat source and dietary forage-to-concentrate ratio influences milk fatty-acid composition in lactating cows

On the basis of the potential benefits to human health there is an increased interest in producing milk containing lower-saturated fatty acid (SFA) and higher unsaturated fatty acid (FA) concentrations, including cis-9 18:1 and cis-9, trans-11-conjugated linoleic acid (CLA). Twenty-four multiparous Holstein cows were used in two experiments according to a completely randomized block design, with 21-day periods to examine the effects of incremental replacement of prilled palm fat (PALM) with sunflower oil (SFO) in high-concentrate diets containing 30 g/kg dry matter (DM) of supplemental fat (Experiment 1) or increases in the forage-to-concentrate (F : C) ratio from 39 : 61 to 48 : 52 of diets containing 30 g/kg DM of SFO (Experiment 2) on milk production, digestibility and milk FA composition. Replacing PALM with SFO had no effect on DM intake, but tended to increase organic matter digestibility, yields of milk, protein and lactose, and decreased linearly milk fat content. Substituting SFO for PALM decreased linearly milk fat 8:0 to 16:0 and cis-9 16:1, and increased linearly 18:0, cis-9 18:1, trans-18:1 (Δ4 to 16), 18:2 and CLA concentrations. Increases in the F : C ratio of diets containing SFO had no effect on intake, yields of milk, milk protein or milk lactose, lowered milk protein content in a quadratic manner, and increased linearly NDF digestion and milk fat secretion. Replacing concentrates with forages in diets containing SFO increased milk fat 4:0 to 10:0 concentrations in a linear or quadratic manner, decreased linearly cis-9 16:1, trans-6 to -10 18:1, 18:2n-6, trans-7, cis-9 CLA, trans-9, cis-11 CLA and trans-10, cis-12 CLA, without altering milk fat 14:0 to 16:0, trans-11 18:1, cis-9, trans-11 CLA or 18:3n-3 concentrations. In conclusion, replacing prilled palm fat on with SFO in high-concentrate diets had no adverse effects on intake or milk production, other than decreasing milk fat content, but lowered milk fat medium-chain SFA and increased trans FA and polyunsaturated FA concentrations. Increases in the proportion of forage in diets containing SFO increased milk fat synthesis, elevated short-chain SFA and lowered trans FA concentrations, without altering milk polyunsaturated FA content. Changes in fat yield on high-concentrate diets containing SFO varied between experiments and individual animals, with decreases in milk fat secretion being associated with increases in milk fat trans-10 18:1, trans-10, cis-12 CLA and trans-9, cis-11 CLA concentrations.

Goat alpha-s1 casein genotype interacts with the effect of extruded linseed feeding on milk fat yield, fatty acid composition and post-milking lipolysis

This study compares two groups of 23 and 24 goats with different CSN1S1 genotypes, matched for lactation number and stage. During the first experimental period (4 weeks) half of the goats of each genotype received the control diet (CT) and the second half received a similar diet containing extruded linseed (EL diet). During the second experimental period, the two groups of goats were switched from the CT to the EL diet and from the EL to the CT diet, respectively. Results confirm the lower milk protein (−4.8g/kg) and fat (−6.5g/kg) concentrations in the low genotype group, whereas milk yield was slightly higher (+0.49kg/d) and lactose concentration was unchanged. Between the genotype groups, there were differences in milk fat proportions of at least 25 FAs, particularly the C7 to C13 saturated FAs and C16:0, C18:0, C18:2n-6 and cis9,trans11-C18:2 acids. In addition, delta-9 desaturation ratios were higher in the low CSN1S1 group for C10:0, C14:0, C18:0, trans11-C18:1 and trans13-C18:1. This strongly suggests an effect on mammary delta-9 desaturase activity, especially for C18:0 and trans11-C18:1. It is likely that higher desaturation ratios in the low genotype, as well as observed changes in other FAs, could compensate for the lower synthesis of medium-chain FAs (C7:0–C13:0), thus contributing to maintenance of the melting point of milk fat in this genotype. The effect of the EL diet on milk FA proportions was highly significant for almost all FAs, along with increased milk fat content and decreased post-milking free FA concentration. Numerous interactions (significant but of limited quantitative extent) between the CSN1S1 genotype and EL feeding were shown on milk composition, including 26 FA proportions or delta-9 desaturation ratios, and post-milking free FA concentration.

Effects of body condition score at calving on indicators of fat and protein mobilization of periparturient Holstein-Friesian cows

The objective was to study the effects of body condition score (BCS) at calving on dairy performance, indicators of fat and protein mobilization, and metabolic and hormonal profiles during the periparturient period of Holstein-Friesian cows. Twenty-eight multiparous cows were classed according to their BCS (0 to 5 scale) before calving as low (BCS ≤2.5; n=9), medium (2.75≤BCS≤3.5; n=10), and high (BCS ≥3.75; n=9), corresponding to a mean of 2.33, 3.13, and 4.17 points of BCS, and preceding calving intervals of 362, 433, and 640d, respectively. Cows received the same diets based on preserved grass to allow ad libitum feed intake throughout the study, and lactation diet contained 30% of concentrate (dry-matter basis). Measurements and sampling were performed between wk −4 and 7 relative to calving. No significant effects were observed of BCS group on dry matter intake (kg/d), milk yield, BCS loss, plasma glucose, and insulin concentrations. The high-BCS group had the lowest postpartum energy balance and the greatest plasma concentrations of leptin prepartum, nonesterified fatty acids and β-hydroxybutyrate postpartum, insulin-like growth factor 1, and milk fat content. Milk fat yield was greater for the high- than the low-BCS group (1,681 vs. 1,417g/d). Low-BCS cows had the greatest concentration of medium-chain fatty acids (e.g., sum of 10:0 to 15:0, and 16:0), and the lowest concentration and secretion of preformed fatty acids (e.g., cis-9 18:1) in milk fat. Milk protein secretion was lowest in the low-BCS group, averaging 924, 1,051, and 1,009g/d for low-, medium-, and high-BCS groups, respectively. Plasma 3-methylhistidine was greater in wk 1 and 2 postpartum compared with other time points, indicating mobilization of muscle protein. Plasma creatinine tended to be lower and the 3-methylhistidine: creatinine ratio was greater in low- compared with medium- and high-BCS cows, suggesting less muscle mass but more intense mobilization of muscle protein in lean cows. High-BCS cows were metabolically challenged during early lactation due to intense mobilization of body fat. Conversely, limited availability of body fat in low-BCS cows was associated with increased plasma indicators of body protein mobilization during the first weeks of lactation, and lower milk protein secretion. These results should be confirmed using an experimental approach where calving BCS variation would be controlled by design.

Effect of dietary starch source on milk production and composition of lactating Holstein cows

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of four sources of starch on milk production and composition, nutrient digestion and blood metabolites of lactating Holstein cows. Four multiparous Holstein cows (708 ± 70 kg of body weight; 83 ± 9 days in milk) were used in a 4 × 4 Latin square design with 21-d periods. The concentrate portion of the diet contained wheat, barley, maize or potato as the primary source of starch. Intake of dry matter (DM) ranged from 18.7 kg/d to 19 kg/d, and was similar among treatments. Milk production was higher in cows fed the wheat-based diet compared with other diets while the milk fat concentration of the cows fed the maize-based diet was the highest. Milk protein concentration was unaffected by the source of dietary starch. Cows fed the potato-based diet had a lower milk protein, lactose and solid-non-fat yield. Milk yield/kg of DM intake and net energy for lactation (NE L )/NE L intake were higher in cows fed wheat-, barley- or maize-based diets compared with those fed the potato-based diet. Feed nitrogen efficiency was higher in cows fed the maize-based diet compared with the other experimental diets. Total tract apparent digestibility of organic matter, crude protein and ether extract were higher in cows fed the wheat- or maize-based diets compared with those fed barley- or potato-based diets; however, total tract apparent digestibility of neutral detergent fibre and acid detergent fibre were higher in cows fed the wheatbased diet compared with those fed the potato-based diet. These results showed that improved production performance in cows fed the wheat-based diet appeared to be because of greater nutrient digestibility and greater nutrient utilization efficiency. Furthermore, potato starch is not superior to grain starch as a readily available energy source for lactating dairy cows. Keywords: Nutrient digestibility, nutrient efficiency, plasma metabolites, wheat, barley, potato, maize

Multiparous cows categorized by milk protein concentration and energy‐corrected milk yield during early lactation – metabolism, productivity and effect of a short‐term feed restriction

The objective of this experiment was to study milk productivity, metabolic adaptation and effect of a short-term feed restriction (FR) on key performance indicators during early lactation in cows classified according to energy-corrected milk (ECM) yield and milk protein concentration. Twenty-three multiparous Holstein-Friesian cows were categorized in four groups according to respective averaged values on Days 23-25 postpartum: high ECM yield and high protein concentration; low ECM yield and low protein concentration; high ECM yield and low protein concentration and low ECM yield and high protein concentration. Dry matter intake was reduced to 68.3% for three subsequent days. Our results showed that short-time FR in early lactation succeeded in enhancing energy deficit of cows in all groups. Milk fat, milk protein and lactose concentrations as well as milk fat yield were not influenced by FR. Several hepatic genes encoding for enzymes involved in catabolism of amino acids, β-oxidation, gluconeogenesis and ketogenesis as well as mRNA encoding for insulin receptor showed increased transcript abundances after FR, primarily in cows with high milk yield and low milk protein concentration.

Effects of Smoking, Mother's Age, Body Mass Index, and Parity Number on Lipid, Protein, and Secretory Immunoglobulin A Concentrations of Human Milk

This study investigated the effect of smoking, mother's age, body mass index (BMI), and parity number on density, lipids, proteins, and secreted immunoglobulin A (SIgA) of human milk. Transitional and mature milk samples were collected from 23 nursing smoker mothers and 43 nursing nonsmoker mothers. Proteins, lipids, and SIgA concentrations were determined as well as the milk density and the general protein profile. Our investigation showed that the milk of smokers contained less lipids and proteins (statistically significant 26% and 12% decrease, respectively), whereas milk density was unchanged. SIgA concentration was 27% lower in milk from smokers, but the decrease was not statistically significant. The general protein profile showed no significant smoking-associated changes in the four identified proteins (β-casein, immunoglobulin A heavy chain, serum albumin, and lactoferrin). Mothers' age and residential area showed noticeable but statistically nonsignificant differences in some of the measured parameters. However, parity number, lactation stage, and BMI were associated with a significant modification of milk composition. Mature milk contained more lipids and less protein, whereas the increase of parity number was associated with an increase in lipid concentration. The group of overweight mothers showed lower milk protein concentration in comparison with the normal group. Multivariate analysis showed a statistically significant interaction effect of the variables (smoking, parity number, lactation stage, age, and BMI) on lipids and between some of them on proteins and SIgA. Our study showed that smoking was associated with lower milk lipid and protein concentrations and that the parity number and BMI were associated with a change in milk lipids and proteins content, respectively.

Effect of heat stress during the dry period on mammary gland development

Heat stress during the dry period negatively affects hepatic metabolism and cellular immune function during the transition period, and milk production in the subsequent lactation. However, the cellular mechanisms involved in the depressed mammary gland function remain unknown. The objective of the present study was to determine the effect of heat stress during the dry period on various indices of mammary gland development of multiparous cows. Cows were dried off approximately 46 d before expected calving and randomly assigned to 2 treatments, heat stress (HT, n=15) or cooling (CL, n=14), based on mature equivalent milk production. Cows in the CL treatment were provided with sprinklers and fans that came on when ambient temperatures reached 21.1°C, whereas HT cows were housed in the same barn without fans and sprinklers. After parturition, all cows were housed in a freestall barn with cooling. Rectal temperatures were measured twice daily (0730 and 1430h) and respiration rates recorded at 1500h on a Monday-Wednesday-Friday schedule from dry off to calving. Milk yield and composition were recorded daily up to 280 d in milk. Daily dry matter intake was measured from dry off to 42 d relative to calving. Mammary biopsies were collected at dry off, −20, 2, and 20 d relative to calving from a subset of cows (HT, n=7; CL, n=7). Labeling with Ki67 antigen and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase deoxyuridine triphosphate nick-end labeling were used to evaluate mammary cell proliferation and apoptosis, respectively. The average temperature-humidity index during the dry period was 76.6 and not different between treatments. Heat-stressed cows had higher rectal temperatures in the morning (38.8 vs. 38.6°C) and afternoon (39.4 vs. 39.0°C), greater respiration rates (78.4 vs. 45.6 breath/min), and decreased dry matter intake (8.9 vs. 10.6kg/d) when dry compared with CL cows. Relative to HT cows, CL cows had greater milk production (28.9 vs. 33.9kg/d), lower milk protein concentration (3.01 vs. 2.87%), and tended to have lower somatic cell score (3.35 vs. 2.94) through 280 d in milk. Heat stress during the dry period decreased mammary cell proliferation rate (1.0 vs. 3.3%) at −20 d relative to calving compared with CL cows. Mammary cell apoptosis was not affected by prepartum heat stress. We conclude that heat stress during the dry period compromises mammary gland development before parturition, which decreases milk yield in the next lactation.

Milk protein IgG and IgA: the association with milk-induced gastrointestinal symptoms in adults

Subjects drinking milk (n= 45) had higher levels of milk protein IgG in their sera than non-milk drinkers (n=125, P<0.001). Subjects with gastrointestinal problems related to milk drinking consumed less milk but had higher milk protein IgG levels than those with no milk-related gastrointestinal symptoms (P=0.03). Among the symptomatic subjects, those reporting dyspeptic symptoms had lower milk protein IgG levels than nondyspeptics (P<0.05). However, dyspepsia was not associated with milk drinking (P=0.59). The association of high milk protein IgG levels with constipation was close to the level of statistical significance. Diarrhea had no association with milk protein IgG level (P=0.5). With regard to minor symptoms, flatulence and bloating (P=0.92), were not associated with milk protein IgG level. Milk protein IgA levels did not show any association with milk drinking or abdominal symptoms. The levels of milk protein IgA and IgG declined as the age of the subjects increased (P<0.001). Conclusion Milk protein IgG but not milk IgA seems to be associated with self-reported milk-induced gastrointestinal symptoms.

Polymorphisms of the IL8 gene correlate with milking traits, SCS and mRNA level in Chinese Holstein

To explore the relation of Interleukin-8 (IL8) gene polymorphism with immunity against mastitis in dairy cow, the polymorphism of IL8 gene was investigated in 610 Chinese Holstein cow from 30 bull families in a dairy farm in Shanghai using polymerase chain reaction-single strand conformation polymorphism (PCR-SSCP) technique, and milk yield, milk fat percentage, milk protein percentage, 305 day corrected milk yield, 305 day milk fat yield, 305 day milk protein yield and somatic cell score (SCS) were measured and analyzed, and the mRNA levels of IL8 genotypes in blood were detected by real-time PCR. The results showed that three genotypes, KK, KA and AA were detected with frequencies of 0.187, 0.451, and 0.362, respectively. The gene frequencies of K and A were 0.412 and 0.588, respectively. The significant association of the IL8 mutations with milk yield, 305 day milk protein yield, 305 day corrected milk yield and 305 day milk fat yield, SCS, and significant association with milk protein percentage were identified, while their association with milk fat percentage were not significant. KK had higher milk yield, 305 day milk protein yield, 305 day corrected milk yield and 305 day milk fat yield than AA or KA, and the least square mean of SCS of KK was significantly lower than that of AA or KA. AA had significant lower milk protein yield than KK or KA. The relative IL8 mRNA level of KK in blood was the highest. These findings demonstrated that IL8 genotype significantly correlated with mastitis resistance and the locus could be a useful genetic marker for mastitis resistance selection and breeding in Chinese Holstein.

Two novel SNPs of the ABCG2 gene and its associations with milk traits in Chinese Holsteins

The ATP-binding cassette transporter ABCG2 (also known as breast cancer resistance protein, BCRP) belongs to the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) family of transmembrane drug transporters, playing a crucial role in the protection of various cells and tissues against xenotoxins and/or endotoxins. Recently, several studies have proposed it as the potential gene underlying the QTL on bovine chromosome 6. Hence, in this study, the PCR-SSCP method was applied to detect two polymorphisms (A → C and A → G) in the target sequence coding nucleotide-binding domain (NBD) region of ABCG2 and evaluate its associations with milk production traits and mastitis-related traits among Chinese Holsteins. In the analyzed population, the allelic frequencies for the A and B alleles were 0.5990 and 0.4010, respectively and the genotypic frequencies were in Hardy-Weinberg disequilibrium (P < 0.01). Moreover, significant statistical relationships between the polymorphisms of ABCG2 gene and following traits, including milk yields, milk protein percentage and somatic cell scores (SCS), were found (P < 0.05). When compared with AA genotype, BB genotype was associated with higher milk yields during 1st and 2nd lactations, as well as lower milk protein percentage and SCS. Thus, BB genotype is suggested to be a molecular marker for superior milk performance.

유단백질 가수분해에 의해 생성된 저분자 Peptides의 항산화 활성

본 연구는 유단백질에 단백질 분해효소를 처리하여 가수분해 후 저분자 peptide를 ABTS법을 이용하여 항산화 활성을 측정하여 유단백질 유래 저분자 peptide의 항산화력을 측정하고자 하였다. Chymotrypsin 처리한 유청단백질의 가수분해도가 가장 높았으며, 유청단백질의 락트알부민 및 락토글로브린이 분해되어 분자량 20 kDa 이하의 저분자 단백질이 생성된 것을 전기영동을 통하여 확인하였다. 유단백질의 농도에 따른 항산화 활성을 측정한 결과, 카제인의 항산화 활성이 유청단백질보다 높게 나타났다. 유단백질을 효소에 의하여 가수분해 시 항산화 활성이 증가하였으며, 카제인 가수분해물이 유청단백질 가수분해물과 비교하여 항산화 활성이 더 높았으나, 가수분해도와 항산화 활성도의 관계는 일치하지 않았다. Trypsin에 의한 카제인 가수분해 물의 항산화 활성이 80.7%로 가장 높았다. 본 연구에서는 chymotrypsin과 trypsin에 의한 분자량 3 kDa의 카제인 분획물의 항산화 활성이 가장 우수 하였으며, 유청단백질을 trypsin으로 분해하였을 때 항산화 활성이 증가하였다. The principal objective of the current study was to prepare low molecular weight peptides from milk proteins using enzymatic hydrolysis techniques, in an effort to assess the antioxidant activity of these peptides. The casein and whey proteins isolated from fresh milk were treated with several proteolytic enzymes, such as chymotrypsin, pepsin, and trypsin and the resulting low molecular weight peptides were collected by TCA precipitation. Their identity was confirmed by SDS-PAGE analysis. The hydrolysis experiments indicated that whey protein treated with chymotrypsin displayed the highest degree of protein hydrolysis. The antioxidant activity of milk protein hydrolysates was determined by measuring the ABTS-radical scavenging activity. The results of these experiments showed that hydrolysis of the milk protein was effective in increasing their antioxidant activities. Especially, the tryptic digested casein displayed the highest radical scavenging activity (80.7%). The hydrolyzed low molecular weight milk protein was isolated using an ultrafiltration membrane. The casein hydrolysate passed through a membrane with molecular weight cut-off (MWCO) of 3 kDa displayed the strongest antioxidant activity.

Effect of different free stall surfaces on behavioural, productive and metabolic parameters in dairy cows

Two experiments were carried out on 56 lactating dairy cows in an experimental free stall barn comparing four different lying surfaces: straw bedded pack (ST), rubber mat (RM), mattress (MA) and sand (SA). In the first experiment (26 days) cows were allowed to choose between free stalls with each lying surface. The rest area was filmed for three non-consecutive days to record the total duration of lying and standing in the free stalls with each lying surface, and the duration and frequency of lying and standing bouts. In the second experiment, lasting 50 days, the cows were divided into four groups; each one was kept in a free stall pen with only one kind of lying surface. Milk yield was recorded and individual blood and milk samples were collected. Blood metabolites and milk characteristics of the samples were analyzed. During Experiment 1 the time spent lying down in the free stalls was 631 min cow −1 day −1, and the cows spent more time lying on SA (44.1% of the total lying time) and on ST (33.2%) than on RM (11.6%) and MA (11.1%) ( P < 0.001). The total number of lying bouts per day was greater ( P < 0.001) on SA and ST than on RM and MA, but there were no differences in the duration of lying bouts. On average, free stalls with SA were occupied for 74.87% of the time, those with ST 60.4%, and those with RM and MA 31.41% and 31.47% respectively. The free stalls with SA and ST were mainly utilized to lie down (85.4% and 80% of the total time spent in these free stalls respectively), while those with RM and MA were mainly utilized to stand (48.4% and 46.4% of the total time spent in these free stalls respectively). Different milk yield change patterns were observed during Experiment 2, with greater values at the end of the experimental period in SA compared with RM ( P < 0.001) and MA and ST ( P < 0.05). In MA greater plasma ceruloplasmin (cf. RM and SA; P < 0.05), greater plasma globulin (cf. RM, ST and SA; P < 0.05) and lower plasma albumin (cf. ST; P < 0.05) were observed. Furthermore, in MA lower milk protein content (cf. ST and SA; P < 0.05), with greater pH (cf. ST and SA; P < 0.05) and lower titratable acidity (cf. ST; P < 0.05), were observed. In conclusion, our results show that cows spent lying time mainly on the softer surfaces, either sand or straw bedded pack, rather than mattress and rubber mat. It moreover seems that surface characteristics that are desirable for lying (e.g. softness) may not be the properties of surfaces most suitable for standing (e.g. stability). Finally, the results obtained with milk yield, milk characteristics and blood metabolites indicate that sand seems to be the best lying surface for dairy cows.

Polymorphism of alpha s1-casein gene in a dairy goat herd in the southeastern region of Brazil

Three different regions of the alpha s1-casein gene (CSN1S1) were investigated to determine the frequencies of major alleles for null, low, intermediate and high milk protein expression in a herd of dairy goats raised in the southeastern region of Brazil. Genomic DNA samples were obtained from leukocytes of 145 dairy goats and regions of interest in the gene were amplified through Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), then evaluated in both agarose (O and E allele) and polyacrylamide gels (F allele). For better characterization of the F allele, a PCR-RFLP (PCR-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism) study was performed employing the endonuclease XmnI. The allelic frequencies in the herd of 62 Saanen goats studied were: CSN1S1E = 0.35; CSN1S1F = 0.30; CSN1S1O1 = 0.02; CSN1S1A+B+C = 0.30, other alleles = 0.03. In another group of 83 Alpine animals, the frequencies were: CSN1S1E = 0.48; CSN1S1F = 0.28; CSN1S1O1 = 0.01; CSN1S1A+B+C = 0.20, other alleles = 0.03. In the region of exon 9 and intron downstream, where mutations that characterize the F allele occur, it was verified that different intragenic haplotypes may exist, involving the deletion of the 23rd nucleotide in the ninth exon in addition to the insertion of 11bp on intron. These haplotypes may be used to make direct association with other alleles. Although rare, a higher number of combinations were found in this work by evaluating in conjunction the region of the insertion of 3bp in the referred intron, which may allow a higher number of associations. A complete characterization of these combinations will allow elaborating simplified protocols to identify animals concerning the alleles of CSN1S1 gene in goats.

Milk protein IgG and IgA: The association with milk-induced gastrointestinal symptoms in adults

To study the association between serum levels of milk protein IgG and IgA antibodies and milk-related gastrointestinal symptoms in adults. Milk protein IgG and IgA antibodies were determined in serum samples of 400 subjects from five outpatient clinics in Southern Finland. Subjects were randomly selected from a total of 1900 adults undergoing laboratory investigations in primary care. All 400 participants had completed a questionnaire on abdominal symptoms and dairy consumption while waiting for the laboratory visit. The questionnaire covered the nature and frequency of gastrointestinal problems, the provoking food items, family history and allergies. Twelve serum samples were disqualified due to insufficient amount of sera. The levels of specific milk protein IgG and IgA were measured by using the ELISA technique. The association of the milk protein-specific antibody level was studied in relation to the milk-related gastrointestinal symptoms and dairy consumption. Subjects drinking milk (n = 265) had higher levels of milk protein IgG in their sera than non-milk drinkers (n = 123, P < 0.001). Subjects with gastrointestinal problems related to milk drinking (n = 119) consumed less milk but had higher milk protein IgG levels than those with no milk-related gastrointestinal symptoms (n = 198, P = 0.02). Among the symptomatic subjects, those reporting dyspeptic symptoms had lower milk protein IgG levels than non-dyspeptics (P < 0.05). However, dyspepsia was not associated with milk drinking (P = 0.5). The association of high milk protein IgG levels with constipation was close to the level of statistical significance. Diarrhea had no association with milk protein IgG level (P = 0.5). With regard to minor symptoms, flatulence and bloating (P = 0.8), were not associated with milk protein IgG level. Milk protein IgA levels did not show any association with milk drinking or abdominal symptoms. The levels of milk protein IgA and IgG declined as the age of the subjects increased (P < 0.004). Milk protein IgG but not milk IgA seems to be associated with self-reported milk-induced gastrointestinal symptoms.

Comparing milk yield, chemical properties and somatic cell count from organic and conventional mountain farming systems

A study was undertaken to investigate the effects of farming systems (organic vs. conventional), diet (hay/concentrate vs. pasture) and their interaction on milk yield, gross composition and fatty acid (FA) profile of dairy cows bred in mountainous areas. For this purpose four dairy farms (two organic and two conventional) were chosen in the alpine territory of Aosta Valley (NW Italy); individual milk yield was recorded daily and bulk milk samples were collected monthly from February to September 2007 to cover dietary variations. Higher levels of milk production (P<0.05) and lower milk protein amounts (P<0.01) were observed in the organic farms with respect to the conventional ones, while no significant differences were noticed in milk fat and lactose contents and in somatic cell count. Concerning fatty acids, only small differences were detected between organic and conventional milk and such differences seemed to be related mainly to the stabled period. Diet affected almost all variables studied: pasture feeding provided a significant improvement in the fatty acid composition in both organic and conventional systems leading to lower hypercholesterolemic saturated fatty acids, higher mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid amounts (P<0.001).

Effect of restricted access time to pasture on dairy cow milk production, grazing behavior, and dry matter intake

The objective of this experiment was to investigate the effect of restricting pasture access time on milk production and composition, body weight and body condition score change, dry matter intake, and grazing behavior of autumn calving dairy cows in midlactation. Fifty-two (19 primiparous and 33 multiparous) Holstein-Friesian dairy cows (mean calving date, August 17±91.2 d) were randomly assigned to a 4-treatment (n = 13) randomized block design grazing study. The 4 grazing treatments were: (i) full-time access to pasture (22H; control), (ii) 9-h access to pasture (9H), (iii) two 4.5-h periods of access to pasture after both milkings (2×4.5H), and (iv) two 3-h periods of access to pasture after both milkings (2×3H). Experimental treatments were imposed from March 7 to April 6, 2007 (31 d). The pregrazing herbage mass of swards offered to all treatments was 1,268kg of dry matter/ha, and sward organic matter digestibility was 86.4%, indicating high-quality swards conducive to high dry matter intake. Swards where animals had 22H and 2×4.5H access to pasture had the lowest postgrazing sward heights (3.5cm), reflecting the greatest levels of sward utilization. After the experimental period, there were no differences in milk production; however, the 2×3H animals tended to have lower milk protein concentration (−0.17%) compared with 22H animals. Furthermore, dry matter intake of the 9H animals was lower than 22H animals. Although restricting access time to pasture decreased grazing time, animals compensated by increasing their intake/minute and intake/bite. Restricting pasture access time resulted in much greater grazing efficiency, because the 9H, 2×4.5H, and 2×3H treatments spent a greater proportion of their time at pasture grazing (81, 81, and 96%, respectively) than 22H animals (42%). Results of this study indicate that allocating animals restricted access to pasture does not significantly affect milk production. This study also found that the total access time should be greater than 6h and that perhaps needs to be divided into 2 periods.

Effects of Supplementation and Stage of Lactation on Performance of Grazing Dairy Ewes

The majority of dairy sheep in the world are fed pasture and supplemental grain during lactation; however, no trials have reported the effects of supplementation of dairy ewes grazing improved pastures in North America. In trial 1, 56 three-year-old grazing dairy ewes in early [21±10 d in milk (DIM)] or late (136±9 DIM) lactation were fed 0 or 0.82kg of dry matter/d per ewe of supplement (16.5% crude protein mixture of corn and a soybean meal-based high-protein pellet) in a 2×2 factorial arrangement of treatments. There were no significant interactions between stage of lactation and supplementation treatments. Average test-day milk production was higher in early-lactation ewes than in late-lactation ewes (1.74 vs. 1.21kg/d, respectively). Although test-day milk protein percentage was higher in late-lactation ewes than in early-lactation ewes (5.02 vs. 4.86%, respectively), there was no difference in milk fat percentage between stages of lactation. Supplemented ewes had higher milk production (1.59 vs. 1.36kg/d, respectively), lower milk fat percentage (5.75 vs. 6.00%, respectively), and lower milk protein percentage (4.84 vs. 5.04%, respectively) than unsupplemented ewes. Milk urea N levels were similar between the 2 stages of lactation and between the 2 supplementation treatments and were above recommended levels for dairy sheep, indicating an excess intake or inefficient utilization of protein for both supplementation treatments. In trial 2, 96 two-, three-, and four-year-old grazing dairy ewes in midlactation (112±21 DIM) were randomly assigned to 4 treatments of 0, 0.41, 0.82, or 1.24kg of dry matter/d per ewe of whole corn. Average test-day milk production increased linearly and milk fat percentage decreased quadratically with increasing amounts of corn supplementation. Milk protein yield increased linearly, and milk urea N levels decreased quadratically with increasing amounts of corn supplementation, suggesting an improvement in the utilization of pasture protein with increasing dietary energy intake.