Milk Supply Research Articles

The paradox of safe milk supply by small-scale dairy farmers in sub-Saharan Africa: insights based on current practices in Malawi

Abstract This research paper aimed to assess milking and milk handling practices among small-scale dairy farmers and determine the presence of E. coli in raw and processed liquid milk in Malawi. A total of 113 dairy farmers were interviewed across three agroecological zones of Malawi. Eighty-seven (87) processed and raw milk samples were collected from selected food stores and dairy farms and tested for E. coli. Ninety-five percent of small-scale dairy farmers had at most 2 milking cows, with daily average milk production of less than 10 L. Sixty-nine percent cleaned milking utensils using untreated water, and the farmers had no refrigerators. Eighty-eight percent held raw milk for over 6 hours at room temperature. Escherichia coli was found to be widely distributed in raw milk (76%) and pasteurized milk (75%), averaging 5.38 ± 1.82 and 2.47 ± 1.02 log cfu/ml, respectively. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that Malawian small-scale dairy farmers employ poor milking and post-milking practices, which compromise the socioeconomic environment of small-scale dairy farmers.

Adaptation and psychometric evaluation of the breastfeeding self-efficacy scale to assess exclusive breastfeeding: a cross-sectional study in rural China.

Despite the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding, the proportion of exclusively breastfed children remains low in rural China. Self-efficacy is one of the most crucial modifiable factors predicting breastfeeding behavior. However, existing instruments in China do not specifically measure self-efficacy for exclusive breastfeeding but rather measure self-efficacy for any breastfeeding. Furthermore, they have been validated only in high-income Chinese settings. We sought to adapt and validate an instrument to measure exclusive breastfeeding self-efficacy within rural Chinese contexts. We introduced relevant items to Dennis' Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale-Short Form (BSES-SF), which can assess maternal self-efficacy for exclusive breastfeeding. It was then implemented in a multistage random cluster sampling design and cross-sectional survey with home-visit interviews among women 0-6 months postpartum (n = 654) in the rural areas of four counties in Sichuan, China. We performed item-total and adjusted item-total correlations, as well as exploratory factor analysis to remove redundant items and determine the latent factor structure. We further applied confirmatory factor analysis to test the dimensionality of the scale. We then assessed the reliability of the scale and conducted tests of predictive and divergent validity. Known group comparisons were made by primiparous status and breastfeeding support level. We compared the validated Exclusive Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale with the BSES-SF in terms of reliability and validity to explore the added value of scale modification. Our modification of the BSES-SF to target exclusive breastfeeding produced 19 items. This was further reduced to 15 items based on adjusted item-total correlations and exploratory factor analysis, forming the Exclusive Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale. This scale had three dimensions: "Breast milk supply and quality," "Breastfeeding skills," and "Exclusive breastfeeding" subscales. The Exclusive Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale demonstrated strong internal consistency and overall reliability with a Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.91. Predictive and divergent validity and known group comparison assessments supported its validity. Robust psychometric evaluations demonstrated enhanced validity and reliability compared to the original BSES-SF. Our Exclusive Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale is valid and reliable for measuring exclusive breastfeeding self-efficacy within rural Chinese contexts and is ready for adaptation and validation for clinical and programmatic use elsewhere, particularly within LMICs.

National Trends in Breastfeeding by Gestational Age Category

National breastfeeding (direct breastfeeding and/or provision of pumped breast milk) rates among preterm infants are unclear. We report rates of breastfeeding initiation and continuation at 12 weeks after birth by gestational age category from a nationally representative survey between 2009 to 2019. Breastfeeding rates were lowest among infants born late preterm compared with other gestational age categories.

Measurement and Improvement of Fresh Milk Supply Chain Performance (Case Study of XYZ Farmers Group, Bogor Regency)

The challenges in the small-scale dairy industry often stem from outdated business management practices and a lack of comprehensive performance evaluation. This study adopts a structural approach by analyzing the performance of the fresh milk supply chain within Farmers Group XYZ, located inBogor Regency. We employed the SCOR and AHP methods for our performance analysis. Data were garnered through questionnaires, interviews, and observations. The findings reveal that the overall performance of the fresh milk supply chain was moderate, with performance scores of 84.25% forfeed suppliers, 77.47% for Farmers Group XYZ, and 82.05% for consumers. Notably, areas requiring enhancement include reliability, responsiveness, and cost-efficiency. Consequently, we have developed strategic recommendations aimed at augmenting supply chain effectiveness. These include enhancing the transportation system to ensure timely deliveries (Reliability), shortening order fulfillment times and improving the flexibility to adapt to demand fluctuations (Responsiveness), and optimizing logistics and storage to reduce costs (Cost). Implementing these strategies will bolster collaboration and fortify relationships among suppliers, producers, and consumers, contributing to a more robust dairy industry.

Fresh Milk Supply Chain Analysis in Kelompok Ternak Mandiri Sejahtera using Food Supply Chain Network Approach

Supply chain management plays a role in ensuring the availability of raw materials from suppliers to the final product reaching consumers. Kelompok Ternak Mandiri Sejahtera (KTMS) is a cooperative that acts as a link between farmers and dairy processing consumers. However, research on theapplication of the supply chain concept at KTMS has not yet been explored. One commonly used approach to analyze supply chain conditions is the Food Supply Chain Network (FSCN). Therefore, the aim of this study is to analyze the fresh milk supply chain conditions at KTMS using the FSCNapproach to comprehensively understand the supply chain conditions. The research was conducted at the Kelompok Ternak Mandiri Sejahtera (KTMS) from June to July 2024. The method used was qualitative descriptive with observations and interviews using questionnaires relevant to the FoodSupply Chain Network (FSCN) framework with 17 respondents. The results of the study indicate that the fresh milk supply chain conditions at Kelompok Ternak Mandiri Sejahtera (KTMS), based on the Food Supply Chain Network framework approach, have been running smoothly, although transportation resources and technology resources remain weaknesses for both the farmers and KTMS.

A qualitative analysis on dairy farming policies and its stakeholder’s perspective in Indian dairy sector

This paper critically reviews the role of dairy farming policies and interventions required by the different government agencies and their associations. This article explains the divergence in formulation and implementation of dairy development policies and schemes (DDPS) in the Indian dairy sector. This paper is based on qualitative research representing a diverse range of epistemological, theoretical, and disciplinary perspectives. Review of Literature is to access databases from peer-reviewed journals and published survey reports of statutory and non-statutory bodies in the dairy farming sector. Dairy farmers/dairy entrepreneurs/milk producers are the respondents and information gathered through detailed telephonic interviews and audio recordings due to COVID-19 outbreak. Sample size ranges from 5–10 responses from stakeholders involved in dairy farming in Milk Supply Chain (MSC). Thematic Analysis (TA) is used for identifying, analyzing and interpreting patterns of text and its meaning (‘themes’) using NVIVO 10 software. Benefit of this research are also academicians, researchers and agriculture scientists for further research in the field of dairy farming and MSC. This paper develops a fair understanding about risks and challenges among small-medium size farmers in effective implementation of dairy development programmes and schemes. Dairy producers,processors and enterprises are able to formulate better marketing strategies for future market expansion of desi cow milk. Grounded Theory (GT), an iterative process based on the perception and concerns of respondents gathered from initial data is a novelty of this research. Study is only limited to qualitative approaches with small sample sizes. There is a need to investigate other statistical methods to validate the research.

Turmeric Topical Application: An effective solution for reducing breast milk secretion delays in new mothers

Background: The problem of low coverage of exclusive breastfeeding is partly influenced by insufficient breast milk production. The percentage of exclusive breastfeeding in infants under six months of age in Central Kalimantan in 2020 was 52.98%. This percentage was among the lowest nationally. In 2021, the coverage of exclusive breastfeeding in infants under six months of age reached 56.8%, and in 2022 it did 60.5%. The figure in 2022 exceeded the set target, but several regencies/cities still had low coverage. Insufficient breast milk supply impacts on the nutritional status of the child. Low breast milk production also arises due to several other factors during breastfeeding, namely late initiation of breastfeeding, long breastfeeding time, sore nipples, breast pain and swelling, and inverted nipples. Aims: The study sought to measure the level of success of turmeric topical application in shortening the time it takes to initiate breast milk secretion. Methods: The study uses a true experimental posttest-only control group design. A subject of 50 mothers having full-term spontaneous deliveries and with normal breasts was used in the study. The sample was divided into two groups: control and intervention groups. The sample was selected using a matching process based on age, parity, and early initiation of breastfeeding. Subjects who met the inclusion criteria were offered whether they were willing to be given turmeric compresses after the delivery process. Subjects who were willing were included in the intervention group and those who were not willing were included in the control group. Age and parity in the intervention group were all taken, while the control group was selected to match the intervention group. The intervention group was given a treatment with a turmeric compress on the breasts for six hours. All participants were then observed for time of breast milk secretion initiation. In this experiment, we didn't perform blinding, but we managed it by having the midwife administer the turmeric compress just once during the delivery process before sending the client home. Following this, we recorded the results, specifically the initial breast milk release in both the intervention and the control group. Results: The average time periods it took to initiate breast milk secretion in the intervention and control groups were 509.96 minutes (8.5 hours) and 1573.76 minutes (26.2 hours), respectively. There was a significant difference (p = 0.023) in the time of breast milk secretion initiation of 1063.8 minutes or 17.73 hours between both groups. Conclusion: Applying a turmeric compress on the breasts of postpartum mothers may shorten the time it takes to initiate breast milk secretion. Received: 05 August 2024, Reviewed: 23 August 2024, Revised: 21 September 2024, Accepted: 13 October 2024.

Impact of postpartum physical activity on cardiometabolic health, breastfeeding, injury and infant growth and development: a systematic review and meta-analysis

ObjectiveTo examine the relationship between postpartum physical activity and maternal postnatal cardiometabolic health, breastfeeding, injury, and infant growth and development.DesignSystematic review with random-effects meta-analysis and meta-regression.Data sourcesEight online databases were...

8046 Milk Provision as a Potential Intervention to Improve Iodine Status in a Pregnant Cohort in Northern Ireland (NI), UK: A Randomised Controlled Trial

Abstract Disclosure: L.R. Kayes: None. K.R. Mullan: None. J.V. Woodside: None. Iodine deficiency is the leading cause of reversible mental retardation worldwide. During pregnancy there is ∼50% increase in iodine requirement for foetal neurodevelopment. The most recently studied cohorts of pregnant women across Ireland and UK consistently demonstrated mild iodine deficiency (target median urinary iodine concentration (mUIC) ≥150 µg/L). A recent study in NI has shown that women of child-bearing age provided with three litres of cow’s milk per week had improved iodine status. We wished to explore whether a similar milk intervention might improve iodine status during pregnancy. Pregnant women were recruited at their first antenatal appointment, and all were provided with the British Dietetic Association’s iodine food fact sheet. Participants were randomised to either milk intervention, (four litres/week milk delivered weekly free of charge), or no milk delivery (control group). Patients were stratified based on use of an iodine-containing multivitamin prior to randomisation. Urine was collected at recruitment, after 12-week intervention period, in the third trimester and 6-12 weeks postnatally along with an infant urine sample when possible. A total of 55 urine samples were collected from infants. A total of 118 women were recruited. Participants had a mean age of 32 years, (range 21 - 45) with a mean BMI of 27.5 kg/m2. Mean gestational age was 12 weeks (IQR 12-13 weeks). The mUIC in the whole group women was 53.2 µg/L in the first trimester. In the control group the mUIC at the first study visit (n=59) was 93.4 µg/L (22% achieving iodine sufficiency); at the second visit (n=38), the mUIC was 158.7 µg/L with 34% achieving sufficiency. In the milk group the mUIC at the first study visit (n=59) was 82.0 µg/L with 10% achieving sufficiency (no statistical significance between groups, p=0.08); at the second visit (n=43), mUIC was 154.7 µg/L with 37% achieving sufficiency (no statistical difference between groups p=0.78). The mean change in UIC between the first and second trimesters was 44.5 and 88.1 µg/L in the control and milk arms respectively (p=0.27). In this cohort, 71.4% of women reported taking an iodine-containing multivitamin in the first trimester of pregnancy with no difference between group randomised to milk intervention (p=0.95). In the infants, mUIC was 124.1 µg/L with no statistically difference in the proportion reaching iodine sufficiency according to maternal randomisation (p=0.64) or maternal use of an iodine-containing multivitamin (p=0.95). In this cohort, there was no significant improvement in mUIC in those receiving a milk intervention. Presentation: 6/1/2024

8046 Milk Provision as a Potential Intervention to Improve Iodine Status in a Pregnant Cohort in Northern Ireland (NI), UK: A Randomised Controlled Trial

Abstract Disclosure: L.R. Kayes: None. K.R. Mullan: None. J.V. Woodside: None. Iodine deficiency is the leading cause of reversible mental retardation worldwide. During pregnancy there is ∼50% increase in iodine requirement for foetal neurodevelopment. The most recently studied cohorts of pregnant women across Ireland and UK consistently demonstrated mild iodine deficiency (target median urinary iodine concentration (mUIC) ≥150 µg/L). A recent study in NI has shown that women of child-bearing age provided with three litres of cow’s milk per week had improved iodine status. We wished to explore whether a similar milk intervention might improve iodine status during pregnancy. Pregnant women were recruited at their first antenatal appointment, and all were provided with the British Dietetic Association’s iodine food fact sheet. Participants were randomised to either milk intervention, (four litres/week milk delivered weekly free of charge), or no milk delivery (control group). Patients were stratified based on use of an iodine-containing multivitamin prior to randomisation. Urine was collected at recruitment, after 12-week intervention period, in the third trimester and 6-12 weeks postnatally along with an infant urine sample when possible. A total of 55 urine samples were collected from infants. A total of 118 women were recruited. Participants had a mean age of 32 years, (range 21 - 45) with a mean BMI of 27.5 kg/m2. Mean gestational age was 12 weeks (IQR 12-13 weeks). The mUIC in the whole group women was 53.2 µg/L in the first trimester. In the control group the mUIC at the first study visit (n=59) was 93.4 µg/L (22% achieving iodine sufficiency); at the second visit (n=38), the mUIC was 158.7 µg/L with 34% achieving sufficiency. In the milk group the mUIC at the first study visit (n=59) was 82.0 µg/L with 10% achieving sufficiency (no statistical significance between groups, p=0.08); at the second visit (n=43), mUIC was 154.7 µg/L with 37% achieving sufficiency (no statistical difference between groups p=0.78). The mean change in UIC between the first and second trimesters was 44.5 and 88.1 µg/L in the control and milk arms respectively (p=0.27). In this cohort, 71.4% of women reported taking an iodine-containing multivitamin in the first trimester of pregnancy with no difference between group randomised to milk intervention (p=0.95). In the infants, mUIC was 124.1 µg/L with no statistically difference in the proportion reaching iodine sufficiency according to maternal randomisation (p=0.64) or maternal use of an iodine-containing multivitamin (p=0.95). In this cohort, there was no significant improvement in mUIC in those receiving a milk intervention. Presentation: 6/1/2024

Breastfeeding Practices in the Twin Town of India - A Cross-Sectional Study.

The global rise in twinning rates poses health challenges due to increased risks for infants and mothers. Despite the benefits, breastfeeding rates among multiples are low, with exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) particularly scarce compared to singletons. Our study focuses on the mothers of twins in a unique population in Kodinhi village, Kerala, India, known for its high twinning rates, which aims to contribute to existing knowledge of breastfeeding practices and perspectives in a high twinning environment and offer valuable insights to promote optimal breastfeeding among mothers of twins. A retrospective cross-sectional survey was adopted. Seventy-five mothers with twins under 3 years of age from Kodinhi and neighboring areas were interviewed face to face using structured validated tools. Data collection focused on quantitative data supplemented by narrative descriptions. Most women delivered preterm (57.3%), operative delivery (58.7%), and had a late initiation of breastfeeding (32.9% within 24 hours). Colostrum feed was common (86.7%). The EBF rate was 4%, with 47.9% initiating nonexclusive breastfeeding before 3 months, and most of the twins (46.6%) were breastfed for 1-2 years. Fatigue (69.9%) and low milk supply (38.7%) were chief concerns. While 16.4% of mothers opted for a tandem breastfeeding technique, many preferred consecutive feeding as tandem was challenging. Mothers in Kodinhi demonstrated commendable efforts in breastfeeding twins; despite the low rate of EBF, breastfeeding extended to 1-2 years. Evidence-based interventions and personalized support, primarily focusing on maternal perspectives of milk insufficiency, fatigue and breastfeeding techniques, are crucial for sustaining optimal breastfeeding practices among mothers of twins.

Hot topic: Avian influenza subtype H5N1 in US dairy—A preliminary dairy foods perspective

In February and March of 2024, an unusual illness began affecting dairy herds primarily in Texas and neighboring states. The causative agent of this illness was ultimately confirmed in late March 2024 to be a strain of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 belonging to clade 2.3.4.4b. In the months following the emergence of this viral disease in cattle, infections have spread to at least 191 herds in 13 states at the time of this writing in August 2024, primarily through cattle and human movement. Surprisingly, early examination of raw milk samples from clinically affected animals indicated that the virus had an affinity for the mammary tissue, and viral shedding into raw milk occurred at high levels, exceeding 108 log10 50% tissue culture infectious dose (TCID50) in some cases. These high viral loads coupled with evidence that farm cats who consumed raw milk from clinically ill animals were infected and exhibited high mortality rates, raised concerns about the safety of the US milk supply for human consumption. To date, 4 cow-associated human infections have been reported, all from farm employees with direct contact with infected animals. Several parameters ultimately affect the theoretical public health risk from consumption of dairy products manufactured from a milk supply containing H5N1, namely (1) initial viral load, (2) persistence of H5N1 in raw milk, (3) viral inactivation through processing practices including pasteurization, and (4) human susceptibility and infectious dose. In the short period since the emergence of this disease in dairy cattle in the United States, research has begun to answer these critical questions, although our knowledge is still quite limited at this time. Here we review the literature available from the current H5N1 outbreak in US dairy cattle, as well as selected relevant literature from previous research in other animal agriculture sectors, that affect our current understanding of the parameters associated with the food safety risk of this disease in the US dairy supply chain.

Donor Milk Expression Habits: Can we Favor Hindmilk Banking for Extremely Preterm Infants?

Background: Extremely preterm infants often receive donor milk. Hindmilk, which is released more than 3 minutes after letdown, could be advantageous due to its elevated levels of fat and calorie density. Donor milk expression habits may influence milk composition but have not yet been investigated. This study aims to assess the practices of milk donors and the feasibility of hindmilk expression. Methods: Active milk donors in Québec were questioned using an online survey about their milk expression habits and whether hindmilk donation would be acceptable to them. Answers were analyzed using mixed methods. Results: Of 181 donors, 126 fully completed the questionnaire (70%); 57% reported expressing donated milk between breastfeeds; 15% reported simultaneously breastfeeding while expressing donated milk from the other breast; 12% reported breastfeeding their baby on each breast, then expressing donated milk (hindmilk). The majority (66%) would be willing to change their habits most or all the time to provide hindmilk for preterm infants. The main themes invoked by respondents in open-ended answers were altruism and gratitude for being able to help others. However, 15% commented on the complexity of milk expression or that adding further complexity might discourage them from donating. Conclusions: Expression practices are variable, which may lead to variability in donor milk composition. Most donors would agree to change their expression habits in favor of giving hindmilk to help the most fragile infants. More information is needed on how changing recommendations for milk expression might impact the supply and composition of donor milk.

Predictors of Direct Breastfeeding in Preterm Infants.

Objective: Rates of mother's own milk (MOM) provision in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) vary widely, despite acceptance as the gold standard for nutrition in preterm infants. Direct breastfeeding (DBF) supports long-term provision of MOM, but factors that support DBF in preterm infants are unknown. The purpose of this study was to identify factors that predict DBF at oral feeding initiation and at NICU discharge. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of preterm infants born at ≤ 32 weeks who were receiving MOM at 32 weeks corrected gestational age (cohort 1) and at discharge to home (cohort 2). The primary outcomes were rates of DBF at oral feeding initiation (cohort 1) and at hospital discharge (cohort 2). We examined bivariate associations between infant characteristics, maternal sociodemographic factors, and hospital practices (e.g., lactation visit timing and frequency) with DBF outcomes and then built logistic regression models to determine the adjusted odds ratio and 95% confidence interval ([adjusted odds ratio [aOR] [95%CI]) for independent predictors of the DBF outcomes. Results: Sixty-four percent of eligible infants initiated DBF, and 51% were DBF at discharge. Sociodemographic, NICU, and lactation support factors were associated with both outcomes. Post hoc analysis showed that similar factors also influenced lactation support provision. Conclusions: Lactation support, NICU and sociodemographic variables influence DBF initiation and DBF at discharge. Interventions that optimize efficient use of available lactation support, address bias, and provide ample opportunity for DBF practice could improve rates.

Lactation-focused audio relaxation versus standard care for mothers of very preterm infants (the EXPRESS randomised clinical trial).

Mothers of very premature newborns often have low milk supply. Systematic review has shown increased milk quantity with relaxation interventions. We hypothesised that a self-directed audio relaxation and lactation-specific visualisation would increase milk quantity after a very premature birth. Unmasked, randomised, controlled trial, recruiting 132 participants in four United Kingdom neonatal units. Eligible women had given birth to one or two infants between 23+0 and 31+6 weeks of gestation. The intervention was a 12-min voice recording including breathing exercises, muscle relaxation and lactation-specific visualisation. Primary outcome was the highest 24-h breastmilk weight expressed on any of day 4, day 14 or day 21 after birth. Mean birth gestation was 27.8 weeks (SD 2.4), with 26% of participants giving birth under 26 weeks (34/132). Adjusted mean difference in primary outcome was 73.9 g (95% CI -61.7 to 209.5, p = 0.28). Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Index adjusted mean difference was -1.9 (-8.2 to 4.3, p = 0.54). The majority of relaxation group participants felt the intervention was relaxing (32/42, 76%). There was no beneficial effect of this relaxation intervention on milk quantity. Mothers of very premature infants may value relaxation interventions but they are unlikely to have a large effect on milk quantity. This randomised trial did not show a beneficial effect of a self-directed audio relaxation and visualisation on mothers' own milk quantity expressed after very preterm birth. Mothers of very and extremely preterm infants may value relaxation interventions, but they are unlikely to have a large effect on milk quantity. Prior systematic review of mixed populations has shown an increase in mothers' own milk quantity with relaxation interventions. Combining this study with existing meta-analysis could result in a new hypothesis that the lower the gestation at birth, the smaller the impact of relaxation on milk quantity.

A Comparative Evaluation of the Acidogenic Potential of Lactose-based, Soy-based, Protein Hydrolysate-based, and Iron-based Milk Formulas Based on Dental Plaque pH, Salivary pH, and Buffering Capacity: An In Vivo Study.

Breastfeeding is the gold standard nutrition for infants. However, the inability of infants to latch on, maternal complaints of sore or painful nipples, and insufficient milk supply frequently result in early breastfeeding cessation. Hence, milk has subsequently been replaced by infant formula milks of high quality, which serve as an alternate source of nutrition for infants. There also has been a rising concern among parents and caretakers regarding the cariogenic potential of the various milk formulas available in the market due to the presence of fermentable carbohydrates in them, leading to an increase in nursing caries or early childhood caries. Hence, this study aims to comparatively evaluate the acidogenic potential of four different milk formulas based on dental plaque pH, salivary pH, and buffering capacity. This cross-sectional study was carried out to assess the acidogenic potential of various infant milk formulas using three main parameters of measurement of caries: evaluation of salivary pH, plaque pH, and buffering capacity.Baseline plaque and salivary pH and postconsumption plaque pH and salivary pH were assessed after 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, and 60 minutes in 60 healthy children (15 in each study group) aged 7-12 years after rinsing with group I (lactose-based), group II (soy-based), group III (protein hydrolysate-based), and group IV (iron-based) milk formulas. The pH was assessed using a precalibrated digital pH meter. Plaque pH was also further assessed based on its buffering capacity. Soy-based and protein hydrolysate-based milk formulas were found to be most cariogenic in both saliva and plaque. Lactose-based formulas were found to be the least cariogenic of all the milk formulas. Parents and caretakers must be made aware of the various types of milk formulas available, their composition, as well as their relative cariogenic nature. Feeding should always be supervised, and infants should not be left with milk-containing bottles as comforters. Milk feeds at bedtime, when salivary flow is reduced, should be discouraged. Dentists and pediatricians should be aware of the caries-related risk associated with different milk formulas before recommending them to children. Knowledge and awareness among parents and caretakers regarding the cariogenicity of various milk formulas available in the market. Mahanta A, Yadav G, Saha S, et al. A Comparative Evaluation of the Acidogenic Potential of Lactose-based, Soy-based, Protein Hydrolysate-based, and Iron-based Milk Formulas Based on Dental Plaque pH, Salivary pH, and Buffering Capacity: An In Vivo Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(8):851-859.

High-precision micro-total analysis of sodium ions in breast milk

Measuring sodium ion concentration in breast milk can provide crucial health information for both mother and infant, including early signs of low-grade infection and reduced milk supply. Traditional sensing methods are slow, bulky, expensive, and require skilled operators. Here, we develop a coverslip-sized, high-precision lab-on-a-chip device that processes and detects sodium ions in human breast milk. The device uses micro-electrodialysis to extract sodium ions into a simple acceptor solution with 92 ± 3 % efficiency and employs a graphene ion-selective sensor for high-performance quantification. We demonstrate a straightforward calibration strategy, enabling the device to measure breast-milk sodium ion levels in 141 seconds, with accuracy comparable to inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Our approach offers a promising pathway to efficient, point-of-care diagnosis of conditions associated with metal-ion levels in complex liquid-biopsy samples.

Microbial quality and constraints affecting of cow milk supply chain in Nekemte City, Ethiopia

Microbial quality and constraints affecting of cow milk supply chain in Nekemte City, Ethiopia

Improving iodine status in pregnancy: a randomised controlled trial (RCT) of milk provision for pregnant women in NI - bring back the milkman?

Improving iodine status in pregnancy: a randomised controlled trial (RCT) of milk provision for pregnant women in NI - bring back the milkman?

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

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