Milk Production Research Articles

The cow GUTBIOME CY study: investigating the composition of the cattle gut microbiome in health and infectious disease transmission in cyprus

BackgroundRecent evidence suggests that the lower gut microbiome of ruminants presents roles in their health and environment, including the development of the mucosal immune system, milk production efficiency and quality and subsequent methane emissions. However, there are proportionately fewer studies on this complex microbial community in cattle and region-focus studies are non- existent.MethodsHerein, we present the research protocol of the GUTBIOME CY project pertaining to determine the composition of the lower gut microbiome in dairy cows situated in 37 farms across five districts of the island of Cyprus. Detailed questionnaires on animal husbandry and farming practices will be gathered from each farm. Faecal, milk (individual and bulk) and water samples will also be collected from cows and their offspring. Samples will be analysed using a combination of molecular biology and bioinformatics pipelines to define microbiome profiles and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Information collected from the questionnaires will be used to test for associations between animal husbandry or farming practices and microbiome components and AMR.DiscussionCollected samples will establish the first dairy cattle biobank in the country for contributing substantially towards scientific advancements in microbiome research and providing insights to all stakeholders, tailored to the unique agricultural context of Cyprus.

Health risk assessment of aflatoxin M1 exposure through traditional dairy products in Fasa, Iran.

Milk and dairy products are an important source of essential nutrients for human health. However, contamination of these foods poses a significant public health concern. In this study, risk assessment of aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) exposure associated with the consumption of traditional milk and dairy products in Fasa, Fars Province, Iran, was carried out. A total of 180 samples, comprising raw milk, boiled milk, cheese, yoghurt, as well as Doogh and Kashk, two traditional fermented milk-based products, were collected during two seasons of summer and winter and then analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The findings indicated that 85.55% of all samples were contaminated with AFM1 with the mean concentration of positive samples as 251.15 ± 71.97ng/kg (1.10-453.50ng/kg). The results also showed that in 68.88% of tested samples, the toxin concentration exceeded the limit set by the national standard of Iran and the European Union standard. Dietary exposure value calculated for the study population was 0.13ng/kg BW/day. Based on calculations resulting from risk characterization, hazard index (HI), liver cancer risk (LCR), and margin of exposure (MOE) for AFM1 were 0.67, 7.6 × 10-4, and 15,291, respectively. For yoghurt consumers, results showed a significant risk for the study population regarding non-carcinogenic and carcinogenicity hazard (HI > 1, LCR > 10-4, MOE < 10,000). Yoghurt showed the highest contribution rate for AFM1 exposure in various dairy products due to its higher consumption rates, followed by milk. Based on these results, there are needs for rigorous monitoring and control of cattle feeds to decrease the risk of contamination with aflatoxins.

Exploring the influence of age and diet on gut microbiota development in children during the first 5 years: a study from Yaoundé, Cameroon

IntroductionThe development of the human gut microbiota is shaped by factors like delivery mode, infant feeding practices, maternal diet, and environmental conditions. Diet plays a pivotal role in determining the diversity and composition of the gut microbiome, which in turn impacts immune development and overall health during this critical period. The early years, which are vital for microbial shaping, highlight a gap in understanding how the shift from milk-based diets to solid foods influences gut microbiota development in infants and young children, particularly in Yaoundé, Cameroon.MethodsThis study involved an analysis of the gut microbiota composition in 70 children aged ≤5 years through 16S rDNA gene metagenomic sequencing of fecal metagenomic DNA. The participants were grouped into four age categories: 0–6 months, 7–12 months, 13–24 months, and 25–60 months.ResultsWe observed a reduction in microbial diversity in the younger age groups, which increased progressively with age. At the taxonomic level, our analysis identified Firmicutes as the predominant phylum, with its abundance rising in older age groups, suggesting a maturation of the microbiota characterized by distinct genera associations. In the 0–6 month age group, we noted an enrichment of Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria, which may play a crucial role in modulating and supporting immune system development during infancy. After 6 months, we found a higher prevalence of Clostridium, Bacillus, Roseburia, and Faecalibacterium, which are associated with fiber fermentation and the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs).ConclusionThese findings underscore the influence of milk products and complementary diets on gut microbiota across various age groups, promoting increased diversity essential for healthy gut development. More such studies in the LMICs would augment and strengthen understanding towards functional microbiome.

Impact of rumen-protected glucose on performance, milk composition, and selected blood metabolites of early lactating Holstein Friesian cows

IntroductionHigh-producing dairy cows often face calving stress and reduced feed intake during the transition period, leading to body fat mobilization to meet production demands. Supplementing rations with energy-dense sources like rumen-protected glucose (RPG) may enhance production performance in early lactation.MethodsThis study evaluated the effects of RPG supplementation on feed intake, body condition score (BCS), production performance, and blood metabolites in 32 early-lactation Holstein Friesian cows (6 ± 1 DIM; milk yield: 30 ± 5 kg/day; body weight: 550 ± 50 kg; BCS: 3.00 ± 0.25). Cows were assigned to four groups (n = 8/group) and fed a basal diet (Control) or supplemented with 150 g (S-150), 300 g (S-300), or 450 g (S-450) of RPG for a 42-day trial after 2 weeks of adaptation.ResultsResults showed significant improvements (p &amp;lt; 0.05) in final body weight, milk yield, energy-corrected milk, and milk-to-feed ratio with RPG supplementation, with the highest effects observed at 450 g/day. Milk components, including solids-not-fat, lactose, and total solids, also increased significantly. While feed intake remained similar (p &amp;gt; 0.05), blood glucose levels rose, and non-esterified fatty acids and β-hydroxybutyric acid concentrations decreased (p &amp;lt; 0.05), indicating reduced ketosis and negative energy balance.ConclusionThese findings suggest RPG supplementation at 450 g/day improves milk production, quality, and metabolic health in early lactating cows, warranting further exploration of higher dosages like 500–550 g/day.

Efficacy and safety of domperidone and metoclopramide on human milk production in postpartum mothers: a bayesian network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BackgroundBreastfeeding is the most advantageous nutrition for infants because of its many health benefits. However, lactation insufficiency is a prevalent issue among women, particularly those who give birth prematurely. Galactagogues, such as domperidone and metoclopramide, have been reported and may be beneficial for lactation insufficiency. However, the optimal pharmacological galactagogue remains unclear.MethodsThe PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Cochrane Library databases were searched from their inception to April 23, 2023. The primary aim of this research was to assess the efficacy and safety of domperidone and metoclopramide using Bayesian network meta-analysis. The efficacy outcome was the increased breast milk volume (in mL/day). The safety outcome was the frequency of maternal drug-related adverse events during the study period.ResultsSeventeen randomized controlled trials were included in the final analyses. Preterm mothers who took domperidone had a greater increase in breast milk volume than those who took metoclopramide or placebo (domperidone vs. metoclopramide: MD = 82.84, 95% CI: 37.04–118.95; domperidone vs. placebo: MD = 88.30, 95% CI: 59.48–118.62). However, in the term mothers, domperidone did not show the above benefit compared with metoclopramide or placebo (domperidone vs. metoclopramide: MD = 93.67, 95% CI: -186.11–375.59; domperidone vs. placebo: MD = 126.25, 95% CI: -49.91–304.55). Both in preterm and term mothers, metoclopramide was no better than the placebo. There was no difference in the frequency of maternal drug-related adverse outcomes among domperidone, metoclopramide, and placebo.ConclusionDomperidone increased the daily breast milk volume in mothers of preterm infants, without serious adverse events. However, this conclusion is limited due to the small sample sizes in the studies analyzed.

Serum Vitamin D Status Among Workers Coming from Middle East

Background: Vitamin D deficiency is common in the Middle East. To maintain health, vitamin D holds a very important place. Its deficiency is a major global health problem and affects both genders at all stages of life. Lack of exposure to sunlight is among the foremost causes of vitamin D deficiency. Methods: This hospital based cross sectional observational study carried out in the Department of Medicine in Comilla Medical College Hospital, Comilla, with a total of 100 cases purposively selected for the study. Detailed information was obtained in each individual according to protocol. Complete history was taken from patients. Thorough clinical examinations were done. Relevant investigations reports were collected. All the information was recorded in the fixed protocol. Collected data were classified, edited, coded and entered the computer for statistical analysis by using SPSS-23. Results: Out of 100 cases, 76.0% of participants belonged to age 21-40 years. The mean age was found 35.3±8.4 years with range from 18 to 62 years. Majority (95.0%) of participants were male with a ratio of 19:1. The majority (86.0%) of participants were exposed to sunlight ≤15 min/day. Only 3(3.0%) participants used sun block. More than three fourth (79.0%) of the participants used to eating sea fish (≥3 days per/weeks) followed by 52(52.0%) drink milk (≥3 days per/weeks) and 12(12.0%) was supplement with omega-3 fatty acid (fish oil). Majority 41(41.0%) of the participants had back pain followed by 12(12.0%) muscle cramp, 8(8.0%) neck pain and 8(8.0%) headache. Almost two third (65.0%) of the participants had deficiency, 31(31.0%) had insufficiency and 4(4.0%) had normal 25-hydroxyvitamin D. Significant association was also found between inadequate drinking milk with decreased 25-hydroxyvitamin D level. Conclusion: In conclusion 25-hydroxyvitamin D deficiency (65.0%) and insufficiency (31%) common among Bangladeshi workers coming from Middle East. It was influenced by their decreased sunlight exposure (≤15min/day) &amp; clothing style. Inadequate consumption of milk and milk products may also play a role in decreasing vitamin D levels. J Rang Med Col. September 2024; Vol. 9, No. 2: 67-71

The Microbial Diversity and Traceability Analysis of Raw Milk from Buffalo Farms at Different Management Ranks in Guangxi Province

Farm management has a significant impact on microbial composition and may affect the quality of raw buffalo milk. This study involved a diversity analysis and traceability of the microbial communities in raw buffalo milk from three buffalo farms at different management ranks in Guangxi Province, China. The microbial composition of the raw buffalo milk and its environmental sources were investigated using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. The results demonstrated that different management ranks significantly influenced microbial composition in milk, with the primary sources of contamination varying across farms. The env.OPS_17 was the predominant differential bacterium in farm rank A, whereas Enterobacteriaceae, Aerococcaceae, and Planococcaceae were dominant in farm rank B. The Fast Expectation–Maximization for Microbial Source Tracking model revealed that while the sources of microbial contamination varied across farms at different management ranks, the teat and teat liner consistently emerged as the primary sources of microbial contamination in raw buffalo milk. This study provides important insights into how different farm management ranks affect the microbial composition of raw buffalo milk, highlighting the importance of improved management practices during milk production, particularly in cleaning the milking equipment and farm environment, as these are key factors in ensuring the quality and safety of raw buffalo milk.

Optimization of microwave-assisted extraction of bajra milk using response surface methodology

Millets, especially bajra, are known for their ability to thrive in harsh climates and resist pests. Bajra contains high nutritional values, including a high level of protein, fiber and essential minerals like iron, zinc, calcium and magnesium. Plant-based beverages such as bajra milk are becoming more popular as lactose-free, nutritious alternatives to dairy milk. Bajra milk is rich in antioxidants, phenolic acids and flavonoids, offering health benefits such as improved heart health, diabetes control and immune system support. Microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) has proven to be an energy-efficient and a sustainable technique for producing plant-based milks like bajra milk. Compared to conventional methods, MAE reduces nutrient loss, speeds up the process and improves the protein content, viscosity and sensory acceptability. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the extraction processes, identifying ideal conditions of soaking time of 16 h, microwave time of 1.5 min and a temperature of 85 ?C. Under these parameters, the extraction yield was 70.23 %, with a protein content of 5.57 g/100 ml and an overall acceptability rating of 7.2. The aim of this present study is to use the RSM tool to optimize the microwave-assisted extraction of bajra milk and compare the physicochemical and nutritional properties of the conventional method and MAE, MAE bajra milk as a cost effective, ecofriendly solution for large scale plant-based milk production positioning bajra as a valuable alternative.

Organic vs. Conventional Milk: Uncovering the Link to Antibiotic Resistance in Bacillus cereus sensu lato

Bacillus cereus sensu lato (B. cereus s.l.) comprises mesophilic and psychrotolerant bacteria commonly found in natural environments as well as in organic and conventional milk. Due to their potential toxigenicity and antibiotic resistance, these bacteria pose a significant threat to consumer health. Organic milk production, which prohibits the use of antibiotics and artificial additives, may influence the composition of microbiota between milk types. This study aimed to compare the antibiotic resistance profiles and enterotoxic potential of B. cereus s.l. isolates from organic and conventional milk. The results indicate that, although conventional milk contains on average 3 times fewer B. cereus s.l. isolates, it has 10–15% more resistant isolates to selected beta-lactams, macrolides, and aminoglycosides. Regarding drug resistance, 21% of B. cereus s.l. isolates were multidrug-resistant, and as many as 42% were non-susceptible to two classes of antibiotics. Even among the sensitive isolates, bacteria from conventional milk exhibited on average 2.05 times higher MICs (minimal inhibitory concentrations) for beta-lactams, 1.49 times higher for erythromycin, 1.38 times higher for vancomycin, and 1.38 times higher for azithromycin. Antibiotic resistance was mostly associated with the origin of the isolates. These findings underscore the need for ongoing monitoring of antibiotic resistance and enterotoxicity among opportunistic B. cereus s.l. strains, which may pose challenges for public health and veterinary medicine. The results highlight that selective pressure associated with antibiotic use can drive resistance development in bacteria that are not the primary targets of antimicrobial therapy.

The impact of genetic variants related to the fatty acid metabolic process pathway on milk production traits in Jersey cows

The synthesis of fatty acids plays a critical role in shaping milk production characteristics in dairy cattle. Thus, identifying effective haplotypes within the fatty acid metabolism pathway will provide novel and robust insights into the genetics of dairy cattle. This study aimed to comprehensively examine the individual and combined impacts of fundamental genes within the fatty acid metabolic process pathway in Jersey cows. A comprehensive phenotypic dataset was compiled, considering milk production traits, to summarize a cow’s productivity across three lactations. Genotyping was conducted through PCR-RFLP and Sanger sequencing, while the association between genotype and phenotype was quantified using linear mixed models. Moderate biodiversity and abundant variation suitable for haplotype analysis were observed across all examined markers. The individual effects of the FABP3, LTF and ANXA9 genes significantly influenced both milk yield and milk fat production. Additionally, this study reveals novel two-way interactions between genes in the fatty acid metabolism pathway that directly affect milk fat properties. Notably, we identified that the GGAAGG haplotype in FABP3×LTF×ANXA9 interaction may be a robust genetic marker concerning both milk fat yield and percentage. Consequently, the genotype combinations highlighted in this study serve as novel and efficient markers for assessing the fat content in cow’s milk.

Single nucleotide polymorphisms of GYS2 gene and its association with milk production traits of dairy cows

Glycogen synthase 2 (GYS2) encodes liver glycogen synthase, a rate limiting enzyme in glycogen metabolism. Our preliminary work suggested that GYS2 was a candidate gene affecting milk production traits by analyzing the liver proteome of dairy cows. Herein, this research identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of GYS2, analyzed their genetic effects on traits of dairy cattle, and speculated the pathogenic mechanism through functional prediction of key mutation sites. Seven SNPs were found by resequencing and the association analysis showed that these SNPs were significantly associated with 305-day milk yield, fat yield, protein yield or fat percentage (p-value ≤ 0.0488). Six SNPs among them formed two haplotype blocks and they were associated with 305-day milk yield, fat yield, protein yield or fat percentage (p-value ≤ 0.0349). Furthermore, 5:g.88602007G > A and 5:g.88602026G > A were predicted to change the transcription factor binding sites (TFBSs), which might regulate the expression of GYS2. The missense mutation site, 5:g.88602535G > T, changed the secondary structure of mRNA and the secondary and tertiary structure of protein. In summary, the GYS2 was proved to have genetic effect on milk production traits, and its valuable seven SNPs, could provide more useful genetic information for molecular breeding of dairy cows.

Frequency and antibiotic resistance pattern of Salmonella spp. isolated from traditional dairies and raw milks collected in Yazd province, Iran

Background and Objectives: Salmonellosis is among the most common food-born infections, caused by Salmonella spp. bacteria. Present study has investigated the frequency and antibiotic resistance pattern of Salmonella spp. isolated from tra- ditional dairy products and raw milk supplied in Yazd, Iran. Materials and Methods: In a cross-sectional study, 350 samples of raw milk and traditional dairy products were randomly collected from July to September 2018. Following culturing the samples, isolates went through biochemical tests for pheno- typic identification. Results were confirmed through PCR technique by targeting invA gene. Antimicrobial susceptibility test was conducted by means of disk diffusion method. Results: The rate of contamination with Salmonella bacteria was 6.57% in all samples. The PCR assay of all isolates showed that 23 isolates (100%) carried the invA gene. No significant association between the frequency of salmonella spp. and types of dairy and their origin was reported (P&gt;0.05). The highest antibiotic resistance rate among the isolates belonged to tetracy- cline (34.8%) and the highest sensitivity was seen to imipenem, cefepime, and cefotaxime (each 91.3%). Conclusion: According to our results there has been a rise in multiple drug resistance and contamination rate in traditional dairy products in Yazd province.

Breeding objectives and economic value of important traits of Abergelle goats kept under a smallholder production system in Tigray, Ethiopia

Context In developing countries, the production of livestock can be improved by establishing a functional breeding program that involves communities in planning and implementation. Production objectives, farmers’ preferences for traits, and the economic value of the traits need to be studied and documented in designing a functional breeding program. Aim This study aims to identify production objectives, determine the preferred traits of smallholder farmers, and estimate the economic values of important traits for Abergelle goats in Tigray, Ethiopia. Methods An own-flock ranking exercise was used to identify the trait preferences of smallholder farmers. A bio-economic model was employed to estimate the economic values of important traits of Abergelle goats. Key results Abergelle goats were mainly kept for income generation followed by milk production. Appearance (size), color, libido, pedigree, and growth were the most important breeding-buck attributes, whereas milk yield, mothering ability (kid survival and growth), pedigree, coat color, kidding interval, and twinning were the important attributes for breeding does. Positive economic values of €0.25, €0.12, €0.45, €0.68, €0.17 and €2.00 per genetic standard deviation were obtained for 6-month weight, mature weight, daily milk yield, liter size, kidding interval, and pre-weaning kid survival per average doe place and year respectively. However, a negative economic value of −€0.017 per genetic standard deviation was achieved for 3–6-month average daily gain (ADG) per doe per year. Conclusions In this study, the most economically significant traits with positive economic values were pre-weaning survival, litter size, daily milk yield, 6-month weight, mature weight, and kidding interval. Implication Including these traits in the breeding goals can increase the profitability of the flock and improve the livelihood of Abergelle goat keepers.

Expression of Chitinase-like 3 Protein 1 (CHI3L1) in Buffalo Cumulus-oocyte Complexes during in vitro Maturation

Background: Buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) are a vital livestock species in South Asia, significantly contributing to milk production and agricultural sustainability. However, reproductive inefficiency remains a significant challenge, adversely impacting productivity. In vitro maturation (IVM) of oocytes is a critical technique for improving reproductive efficiency in buffaloes. Chitinase-3-like Protein 1 (CHI3L1), known for its roles in tissue remodelling and inflammation, has emerged as a potential regulator in reproductive processes. This study investigates the expression of CHI3L1 in buffalo cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) during IVM to explore its role in oocyte maturation. Methods: Buffalo ovaries were collected post-slaughter and COCs were retrieved and cultured in TCM 199 medium supplemented with FSH, LH and estradiol. The COCs were classified into immature and mature groups based on morphological criteria after 24 hours of culture. Total RNA was extracted from both groups and CHI3L1 expression was quantified using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Western blot analysis was performed to assess CHI3L1 protein levels in both immature and mature oocytes. Result: The study found a significant upregulation of CHI3L1 expression in mature COCs, with a 3-fold increase compared to immature COCs (p less than 0.05). Western blot analysis confirmed the higher intensity of CHI3L1 protein in mature oocytes, correlating with the qRT-PCR results. These findings suggest that CHI3L1 plays a crucial role in the maturation of buffalo oocytes, potentially through its involvement in tissue remodelling and inflammatory responses within the COCs.

Identification of genomic regions affecting nitrogen excretion intensity in Brown Swiss dairy cows

Dairy cows with a lower nitrogen excretion intensity (Nexi) excrete less nitrogen, ammonia (NH3) and nitrous oxide (N2O), a highly potent greenhouse gas (GHG), per kg of milk produced and therefore represent a lower environmental impact while maintaining food security. To date, the genomics background of Nexi is unknown. Here we performed a genetic association study, overlap analysis and functional enrichment analysis for Nexi in 875 genotyped dairy cows with 2,147 lactations from 200 herds. We identified 1456 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that significantly affect Nexi. We found 140 SNPs overlapping with 148 protein-coding genes. The MAN1A1 gene is a strong candidate gene for Nexi. Genotype CC of rs42786248, the most significantly associated SNP located in the MAN1A1 gene, had higher Nexi than genotypes AA (p < 0.001) and AC (p < 0.001). We identified 33 genes involved in biological processes related to nitrogen metabolism. Our results form the basis for further research on the genomics background of Nexi. The identified SNPs serve as potential targets for selective breeding programs, aimed at reducing Nexi and associated NH3 and N2O emissions in cattle production, thus contributing to more environmentally sustainable milk production.

Mosquito-independent milk-associated transmission of zoonotic Wesselsbron virus in sheep.

Wesselsbron virus (WSLV) is a zoonotic, mosquito-borne orthoflavivirus endemic to sub-Saharan Africa, causing abortions and stillbirths in small ruminants. The life cycle of WSLV involves Aedes mosquitoes and various wildlife and domestic animals. Seminal studies in the 1950s have shown the zoonotic potential of WSLV, notably in accidental infections of laboratory workers exposed to infected material. More recent epidemiological studies suggest the emergence of clade I WSLV strains in peri-domestic and rural areas of western and eastern Africa. The pathobiology of recent clade I WSLV strains is unknown and no virus isolate is available. To address these gaps, we generated a recombinant clade I WSLV SA999 infectious clone (rSA999) by reverse genetics. Subsequently, lactating ewes were inoculated intravenously with the WSLV rSA999 strain or the clade II SAH177 strain in insect-free biocontainment stables. Inoculated ewes developed fever, viremia, and showed high levels of viral RNA at mucosal surfaces, and elevated viral titers in milk. Milk production was reduced, which directly affected the growth of the lambs, particularly within the rSA999 group. The ewes with higher WSLV titers in their milk in each group transmitted the infection to their lambs, which developed fever, prolonged viremia, and virus secretion. All infected animals produced high antibody titers with cross-neutralizing activity against both WSLV strains. Histopathology and blood biochemistry analysis indicated liver damage associated with necrotizing hepatitis lesions and active viral replication in some cases, which was more pronounced in the rSA999 group. Notably, only the SAH177-infected animals exhibited lesions consistent with meningoencephalitis, suggesting that WSLV clade II strains are neurotropic and that clade I strain are more hepatotropic. These findings demonstrate a previously unrecognized mode of vector-free transmission of WSLV that raises significant concerns for public and animal health.

Revealing the nutritious treasures: an extensive investigation of health benefits of cultured dairy foods.

Cultured milk products including yogurt, buttermilk, and lassi have made their way into South Asian cuisine for hundreds of years and are extraordinarily beneficial to human health. With a study background on lactic acid bacteria (LAB), these products are scientifically proved to aid in strengthening the immune system, for their anti-mutagenic effects, suitability for those who are lactose intolerant, and for protection against cancer, osteoporosis, and gut disorders. As of now, no scientific attention has been given to the microbial diversity of cultured milk products despite its prominent production and importance in the culture. New emerging approaches for studying the genetic composition and metabolic features of microbial communities, such as metagenomics and metabolomics, will open up important sources of knowledge and be a significant tool for informing conservation. These products are highly valued worldwide in the management of cardiometabolic diseases (CMDs), which encompass hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. The aim of this article will therefore advocate for the health benefits as well as cultural importance of cultured milk products. Indian fermented milk products, along with their historical development, cultural, and research aspects, thereby, highlighting the potential of this kind of product in promoting global health through functional food application, with a focus on recent advancements in their therapeutic potential and applications.

Contribution of goats to climate change: how and where?

This review examines the contribution of domestic goats (Capra hircus) to climate change, particularly through greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The review seeks to outline the global numerical importance and physical characteristics of domestic goats; Compare goats with other main livestock species in terms of their climate impacts; Assess the types of environments and farmers most likely to raise goats; Investigate the climate change impacts of raising goats, focusing on variables such as feed sources, management systems (intensive vs. extensive), and methodologies used to measure these impacts. The conclusion is that the negative reputation of goats needs to be re-evaluated, given their importance to poorer farm families and the potential overstatement or misunderstanding of their climate impact. Goats are the third most common ungulate livestock globally, with an estimated population of 1.1 billion. They are particularly suited to harsh environments due to their physiological advantages, such as efficient utilization of fibrous woody material and resilience to extreme climates. Goats are crucial for poorer farmers, especially in lower and middle-income countries in Africa and Asia. They provide milk, meat, and other products, are readily sold and have low labour requirements, making them ideal for families with limited resources. Goats emit less methane per unit body weight compared to other ruminants like cattle and sheep. However, the extent of their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions varies significantly based on their diet, management system (extensive vs. intensive), and environmental conditions. Extensive systems, where goats forage on natural pastures, may result in low GHG emissions per unit of land area due to carbon sequestration and minimal reliance on high-energy feed. Intensive systems, which use more cultivated energy feed, produce lower methane emissions per unit of product but incur carbon costs arising from feed production. In sum, this review suggests that the negative reputation of goats regarding climate change may be overstated or misunderstood. More research is needed to accurately measure the GHG impacts of goats, considering factors like feed quality, management practices, and carbon sequestration.

Food value chains configurations and resilience of rural mountain communities: three dairy business models in central Apennines (Italy)

The research was held in “Alto Molise,” a mountain area embedded in a small region of southern Italy, focusing on the dairy value chain of the “caciocavallo cheese,” historically rooted in the socio-ecological system of the mountain reference landscape. The local production system connects the environmental setting (i.e., permanent grasslands and meadows), livestock farming skills (linked to the pastoral heritage like traditional transhumance practice), the production of dairy goods (still partially made with craft techniques), and socio-cultural heritage (e.g., mountain farming and artisan culture). In particular, the focal value chain of caciocavallo cheese in Alto Molise involves local natural and socio-cultural resources, it is also linked to other value chains (such as tourism and meat production), and its development can contrast socio-environmental depletion of the territorial capital in Alto Molise, according to the different business models operating in the value chain. This chain is organized around the cheesemakers who hold a market power compared to others, even though the breeders are the ones to rely on the uniqueness of the natural resource units. This form of governance leads to high value creation but with a low efficiency of value distribution. Indeed, the market structure and power relations for each stage of the chain process resulted in oligopsony for milk production and milk collection, while the milk processing has the characteristic of monopolistic competition. The analysis resulted in a strong weakness of the farmers, which may threaten the very economic sustainability of the value chain. In order to represent the situation, the research identified three ideal types of business models to outline their interaction with the socio-ecological system at different stages of the value chain (production, processing, retailing, and consumption) and their impact on territorial capitals and on the resilience of mountain rural communities, including adaptation to climate change and reverse depopulation: model A—Network variant: cheesemakers use only local raw milk establishing fair economic and social collaboration with local breeders; Model B—Market variant: cheesemakers use pasteurized milk produced in the area, in Italy or in the UE for a more “industrialized” production process, model C—Autonomy variant: breeders/milk producers are also cheesemakers in this case. At the production level, the environmental capital and the socio-cultural capital and intangible cultural heritage enter the value chain mainly through business models A and C. Business model B allows this connection and valorization only based on the specialization and dairy enterprise reputation, connects with territorial capital of the production stage of experiential tourism and meat value chains, and the actors as processors and family businesses, but not on the territorial capital of the production stage as landscape based on the interaction of agriculture with the natural habitats. This implies a shift in the production model toward a more industrialized one with raw materials from outside the area and stable farming models with common permanent grassland and meadows less engaged in the chain.

Effects of stress hormones on digestibility and performance in cattle: A review

Abstract Various stress factors affect the physiology of cattle. Environmental stressors include heat, cold, wind, humidity, nutrition, endocrine disruptors, and management. Several negative health effects are associated with the hormones produced under stress conditions. In cattle, cortisol has been associated with reduced rates of reproduction, lowered milk production, and suppression of the immune system causing greater disease susceptibility. For a better understanding of how stress hormones impact feed digestibility and animal performance, this review has been divided into four sections (feed digestibility, milk production, milk composition, and meat quality). In dairy cows, the transition period is challenging because of a shortage of energy and nutrients, inflammation, increased lipid peroxidation, as well as hormonal and metabolic changes. Stress hormones decrease milk yield, but cortisol affects arteriovenous pressure, which is essential for milk production (due to stressful conditions or other factors such as the use of steroid medicines). Higher cortisol levels have been observed in the hotter and more stressful months of the year. On the other hand, in early lactation, reduced feed intake can lead to acidosis, reduced milk fat, and lameness in cattle. Heat stress (HS) influences milk composition negatively, especially a decrease in milk protein. In fattening animals, HS reduces feed intake, animal growth, and production efficiency. These extreme events have short-term effects and can last a day or two. Practical solutions can be adopted to reduce HS by modifying the diet, increasing the amount of water for drinking, providing shade, and a good air exchange in the barn and installing sprinklers. It is possible to increase animal welfare and product quality based on the conclusions of this review.