Search

This research aimed to define the variations in nitrogen associated compounds (daily urea content in milk, milk urea nitrogen, and ammonia emission) in milk samples of Simmental first parity cows bred in Eastern Croatia based on the season of milk recording. For statistical analysis, test-day records of first parity Simmentals bred in Eastern Croatia were used. Table 3 shows the results of the analysis of variance of daily urea content in milk, milk urea nitrogen, and ammonia emission of Simmental first parity cows concerning the season (spring, summer, autumn, and winter). According to the seasons, all analysed traits differ statistically highly significant (p < 0.001). The highest content of daily milk urea was recorded in summer (26.926 mg/dl), also, milk produced in summer had the highest MUN (12.386 mg/dl) as well as the highest ammonia emission (87.302 g/cow daily). The lowest content of daily milk urea (18.828 mg/dl) was determined in winter, along with the lowest milk urea nitrogen (8.661 mg/dl) and ammonia emission (68.565 g/cow daily). The results of the research show that the variability of daily milk urea content, milk urea nitrogen and ammonia emission in Simmental first parity cows depends on stage of lactation, daily milk production, age at first calving, and season of milk recording. Consequently, for the evaluation of ammonia emission from dairy cattle farms based on milk recording data, these outcomes should be taken into consideration in the statistical model. Finally, since it is not yet applied, the application of this evaluation methodology should decrease the environmental impact (especially air pollution) of dairy farms and increase the quality of life in the region of Southeast Europe.

The objective of this research was to determine the differences in nitrogen related compounds (daily urea content in milk, milk urea nitrogen and ammonia emission) in milk samples of Holstein first parity cows reared in Eastern Croatia depending on season of milk recording. Test-day records of first parity Holstein cows reared in Eastern Croatia were used for the statistical analysis. The results of analyses of variance of daily urea content in milk, milk urea nitrogen and ammonia emission of Holstein first parity cows regarding the season (spring, summer, autumn and winter) are presented in the paper. All analysed traits differed statistically highly significant (p < 0.001) regarding the seasons. The highest content of daily milk urea was recorded in summer (27.195 mg/dl), also, milk produced in summer had the highest MUN (mg/dl) as well as the highest ammonia emission (g/cow daily). The lowest content of daily milk urea (20.647 mg/dl) was determined in winter, along with the lowest milk urea nitrogen (9.498 mg/dl) and ammonia emission (72.773 g/cow daily). The research results indicate that the variability of daily milk urea content, milk urea nitrogen and consequently ammonia emission in Holstein first parity cows depends of daily milk production, stage of lactation, age at first calving, and season of milk recording. Therefore, those effects should be taken into account in the statistical model for estimation of the ammonia emission from dairy cattle farms based on milk recording data.

The mastitis that is inflammation of the udder of dairy animal causes significant losses in dairy farm business due to reduced milk production, deterioration of individual quarters or the entire udder, premature culling of animals, death and high treatment costs. The possibility of early detection of mastitis represents important tool for the improvement of farm management and the prevention of the development of the clinical form of mastitis and the consequent costs in milk production. Therefore, the aim of this research was to determine the variability of daily milk lactose content and somatic cell count and consequently the prevalence risk of mastitis in Holstein first parity cows in Eastern Croatia depending on the season based on the results of milk recording that is using the precision dairy cattle technologies.

The occurrence of mastitis (inflammation of the udder) on a dairy farm results in significant business losses due to reduced milk production, deterioration of individual quarters or the entire udder, which precludes animals from premature production, death and high treatment costs. The possibility of early detection of mastitis would enable the improvement of farm management and the prevention of the development of the clinical form of mastitis and the consequent costs in milk production. The results of milk recording, which is carried out monthly on dairy farms, enable the application of precision dairy cattle technologies, i.e. early detection based on some parameters of the analysis of milk samples. According to numerous studies, the lactose content is correlated with the number of somatic cells in milk, where the lactose content

One of the main themes which influence on dairy farming worldwide is precision dairy farming. By the term precision dairy farming is implied the application of technologies for measuring physiological, behavioural, and production indicators on individual animals. Precision dairy farming has few principal aims, like 1) maximizing animal performance, 2) early detecting diseases in individual cows, 3) early detecting herd level health and production problems, as well as 4) minimizing the use of medication through preventive health measures. Milk yield recording systems, milk component monitors, milk conductivity indicators, activity monitors, lying and rumination behaviour monitors, and heat detection monitors are examples of precision dairy farming technologies. Milk production traits recorded during the milk recording represents significant information for managing and breeding of dairy herds. Milk recording enables farmers to track their best and worst animals. Consequently, farmers can make management choices like ; which cows don't produce enough amount of milk and might be suitable to cull or which cows are more proper for breeding replacements. Furthermore, milk recording data enables estimation of impact of dairy farm on the environmental pollution. The aim of this paper was to determine the variability of milk urea, milk urea nitrogen and ammonium emission from dairy Simmental and Holstein cows in regard to months of milk recording using precision farming methodology. The preparation of database, logical control of data, as well as statistical analysis was performed using SAS/STAT.

The mastitis that is inflammation of the udder of dairy animal causes significant losses in dairy farm business due to reduced milk production, deterioration of individual quarters or the entire udder, which precludes animals from premature production, death and high treatment costs. The possibility of early detection of mastitis represents important tool for the improvement of farm management and the prevention of the development of the clinical form of mastitis and the consequent costs in milk production. The milk recording data, as a result from monthly performed milk recording on a state level, enable the application of precision dairy cattle technologies. That means estimation and early detection based on some parameters of the analysis of milk samples. According to numerous studies, the daily lactose content is related with the number of somatic cells in milk. For instance, daily lactose content < 4.5% is an indicator of the prevalence risk of mastitis. The aim of this research was to determine the variability of daily milk lactose content and somatic cell count and consequently the prevalence risk of mastitis in Holstein first parity cows in Eastern Croatia depending on the season based on the results of milk recording that is using the precision dairy cattle technologies. The research results indicate that the variability of daily lactose content and somatic cell count, as well as prevalence of mastitis in Holstein first parity cows depends of daily milk production, stage of lactation, age at first calving, and season of milk recording, and cattle breed. Therefore, those effects should be taken into account in the statistical model for estimation of the mastitis prevalence risk in dairy cows based on milk recording data.

Selection of cows for high milk production resulted in reduced resistance of animals to various diseases such as udder inflammation, which is also a consequence of udder maladjustments for mechanical milking. Studying of milk flow and application of modern measurement devices could lead to higher number of cows adjusted to mechanical milking and reduce udder disease risks. Milk flow in mechanical milking of cows consists of several different phases that can differently affect not only the length of milking, but also the udder health. The aim of the research was to evaluate effects of starting milk flow (tS500) on udder health. The research was carried out on 457 Holstein cows. Udder health (logarithmic somatic cell count - LSCC) was at the greatest risk in cows being in the third lactation (LSCC=3.17 ± 0.12). Starting milk flow (tS500) was equable through all lactations, being the longest in cows in the second lactation (0.21 ± 0.01 min). The least effect on udder health (LSCC=2.38 ± 0.23) when tS500 was comprised between 0.31 and 0.40 min. Longer as well as shorter duration of starting milk flow

The aim of this study was to show the benefits of mare's milk comparing to other types of milk and its integration within the European Union. Mare's milk for thousands of years was used prophylactically and therapeutically in medicine. Also, mare's milk has many positive effects on the human body, but is completely neglected in the diet of the European population. Mare's milk has unique composition comparing to other types of milk. In total, more than 40 nutrients and valuable substances are identified in milk of mares. Mare's milk helps the intestine in its work, stimulates the formation of intestinal flora and thus the absorption of calcium. Also, the content of vitamin D is 17 times higher than in cow's milk. It also contains a high proportion of vitamin C, which leads to the strengthening of our immune system and stimulates the production of antibodies. Consumption of mare's milk strengthens the cardiovascular system and is an excellent natural medicine. The positive effects of the consumption of mare's milk have been reported in allergies, during chemotherapy or after surgery, in case of problems with the skin, and spring and autumn ailments. Mare’s milk is neglected in human nutrition partially due to unknowing of the its characteristics, the demanding production technology and also due to justified high market price. Farms in Western Europe at the beginning of the century recognized the potential of mare’s milk and directed their farms to this kind of production. Today they offer various products to the market (food and cosmetic) and also tourism services on their farms. Sustainable business was noted on the farms targeted on production of mare's milk. These farms breed exclusively or partially cold-blooded horse breeds that are not suitable for equestrian sports.

Classification of teat tissue conditions in cows can be used in assessment of influences caused by milking management, milking equipment or the environment on the teat tissue and in assessment of risks of mammary glands infection. Influences of those factors cause short-term, medium and long-term consequences on the teat tissue. Short- term consequences refer to changes of teat color after milking, teat base swelling, swelling of teat end, and opening of the teat end (teat canal). Medium- term consequences refer to changes in teat skin condition, while long-term consequence is known as hyperkeratosis. From a physiological point of view, hyperkeratosis refers to excessive accumulation of keratin due to normal physiological response of the body to forces that press the teat skin during milking, either by a milking machine, by hand or by a sucking calf. There are many factors that can lead to hyperkeratosis, the most common of which are: shape of teat end, amount of milk, maximum milk flow, duration of milking and post- milking, order and stage of lactation, appearance of teat tissue and the relations between milking management and milking machine. Total time per day with a milk flow lower than 1 kg/min seems to influence the level of hyperkeratosis, which is connected with the ascending phase of milking, i.e. with the release rate of milk (after preparation of a cow and adjusting of a milking machine) and the milk flow rate and milking duration. Increased hyperkeratosis occurs with the appearance of bimodal release of milk or with too long subsequent milking. Increased thickening or roughness of teat end makes cleaning of teats more difficult and enables occurrence of lesions in this area, which increases the risk of mastitis. There are several methods to classify teat end and teat skin condition, one of which is determined according to Britt and Farnsworth, 2005. It is necessary to maintain good condition of cow teats, especially the skin moisture that provides natural elasticity and greater resistance to occurrence of thickening. This can be achieved by good milking management, by hygiene milking, by quality preparation of cows for milking, as well as by good protection of teats at the end of milking.

In human population if the infants are not breast-fed, a substitute for breast milk is needed. Use of cow's milk can induce allergies during the first 3 years of life. Alternative could be mare’s milk. The objectives of this review were to compare human and mare’s milk protein fraction and lipid composition as well as to determine adequacy of mare’s milk as substitute for breast milk. Similarities are found regarding the protein and salt content ; whey protein and NPN concentrations ; structure of protein micelles and lipid globules ; proportion of saturated fatty acids and unsaturated fatty acids. Taking into account determined similarities of human and mare’s milk, it could be concluded that mare’s milk is suitable nourishment for infants.

Morphological appearance of udder and teats are important link in milkability research (milk flow rate, milk flow curve appearance) and udder health. Teat canal dimension is in correlation with maximal milk flow. Teats canals are the first line of defense, so any injury and changes in teat tissues or teat orifice, increase risk of grate amount of microorganism breakthrough, consequently risk of mastitis occurrence. The aim of the investigation was determinate the morphological differences on teat tissue between Holstein and Simmental breeds and find out the relationship between udder health indicators (somatic cell counts logarithmically transformed ; LSSC) and milkability. The investigation was carried out on 60 dairy cows Simmental (S) and Holstein (H) breeds from the first to the third lactation. The milk flow rate measurement was done with electronic mobile milk flow meter Lactocorder. Morphological teats characteristics (teat canal length, teat wall thickness and teat cistern width) were measured by ultrasound machine (Tringa Linear Vet, Netherland). Significantly thinner teat wall (P

The aim of this study was to show the results of implementation of measurements milking traits of cattle in the Republic of Croatia. Milkability traits have an important role in machine milking of cows. The unequal quarters of udder and extreme values of milk flow (too slow / too fast) have big influence on duration of milking and udder health. The canal of teat is a direct link parenchymal mammary gland and the external environment, that with microorganisms can cause inflammation of the udder. For the purpose of progeny testing in Croatia, measuring the flow of milk is carried out as part of regular control of milk (in the second and third control) on primiparious cows of Simmental, Holstein and Brown breeds. In 2011. the measurements are included 18.032 cows (3.097 of Simmental, 14.878 of Holstein and 57 of Brown breed), where made a total of 76.913 measurements (6.297 measurements of Simmental, the Holstein 70.523, and Brown breed of 93 measurements). Were observed following values of the average milk flow: on primiparious cows Simmental 1, 66 kg/min, with the Holstein 2, 48 kg/min and the Brown 1, 92 kg/min. Since 2009., when it started measuring of the milk flow, to 2011. year, the average values of the milk flow at primiparious cows are gradually increased and approached the values provided for cattle breeding program of the Republic of Croatian.

The usage of the mare's milk as functional food especial for children intolerant to cow's milk, with neurodermitis, allergies and similar disorders desiring to improve the quality of life is fiercely debated for last decades but there were no scientific studies to suggest such use of mare's milk based on scientific research. The objectives of this study were to determine similarities of mare's milk in comparison with milk of ruminants (cattle, sheep and goat) and human milk in terms of milk composition and protein fraction as whey proteins, caseins and micelles size. All differences were discussed regarding usage of mare's milk in human diet and compared to milk which is usually used in human nutrition. Regarding composition, the mare's milk is similar to human milk in of crude protein, salt and lactose content, but it has significantly lower content of fat. Fractions of main proteins are similar between human and mare's milk, except nitrogen casein (casein N) which has twice lower content in human than in mare's milk. Content of casein N from all ruminants' milk differ much more. Just for true whey N and non-protein nitrogen (NPN) similar content as human and mare's milk has also goat milk. The casein content is the lowest in human milk ; this content is three times greater in mare's milk and six to seven times greater in goat's and cow's milk, while in sheep's milk it is more than 10 times grater. In many components and fractions mare's milk is more similar to human milk than milk of ruminants. A detail comparison of protein fraction shows quite large differences between milk of different species. More study and clinical research are needed that can recommend usage of mare's milk in human diet as functional food on scientific bases.

Statistical methods were to developed and evaluated for the estimation of daily and 305- day lactation milk yield of dairy cattle from alternative milk recording scheme. Data included 7, 815 individual test-day milk yield records collected according to the A4 milk recording method on 769 cows reared on 15 family farms. Daily milk yield was estimated using five different methods. The 305-day lactation milk yields were calculated from estimated daily milk yields using the Test Interval Method. The correlation between estimated and true milk yields, as well as the basic statistics of difference between estimated and true milk yield were used as the evaluation criteria for estimation methods. The linear regression of daily to partial milk yields with taking into account the interval between successive milkings proved to be the most accurate one in estimating daily milk yield, either from morning or evening records. The doubling of morning or evening milk yield highly overestimated and underestimated the daily milk yield, respectively. When 305-day lactation milk yields were compared no notable differences between evaluated methods were found.

The objectives of this study were to develop and compare different models for estimation of daily milk yield from alternative milk recording scheme (single morning and evening milking records). In this study, 3, 000 individual test-day milk yield records from Central data base of Agricultural institute of Slovenia were used. Data were collected from April 1999 to September 2002 on 565 sheep reared on 10 family farms in Slovenia. Daily milk yield as well as daily fat and protein content were estimated by several statistical models. Determination coefficients of models for estimation of daily milk yield as well as daily protein were slightly lower when estimation was based on evening milkings, while the determination coefficients of models were slightly higher when daily fat content was estimated from evening milking. With the complexity of the models the amount of explained variance increases and the bias between true and estimated daily yields decreases. Inclusion of other effects in models, beside single milking weights, like effects of breed, lactation stage and number of liveborns, did not significantly increase the amount of explained variance, so the differences between models used for estimation were minor and statistically insignificant, therefore we would recommend use of model A in practice. That model included only partial milk yield as linear regression so, because of its simplicity, the implementation in routine work is simple. Because in present research the information of the interval between successive milkings, which is the most important effect in estimation of daily yields, was not available there is a need for further investigation in which we would be able to take that effect into account. Keywords: alternative milk recording scheme, daily milk yield, estimation, sheep

The objective of this research was to compare different approaches to daily milk yield prediction from alternative milk recording scheme (single morning and evening milking records). The data used in this study were 3, 730 individual test-day milk yield records collected from November 2004 to November 2005 on 560 cows reared on 15 family farms in Croatia. Daily milk yield, as well as, daily fat and protein content were predicted by several different approaches. The correlations between true and estimated daily milk yield are slightly lower when prediction is based on evening milkings, while the correlations between true and estimated daily fat as well as protein content are slightly higher when prediction is based on evening milkings. Model D, which included single yields as covariate as well as effect of daily interval, and model E, which also included effect of lactation stage as lactation curve by Ali and Schaeffer, gives the best fit to the data both for prediction of daily milk yield or milk content (fat and protein) based on morning or evening milkings. Differences between those two models were minor and statistically insignificant, so we would recommend use of model D in practice as the model which could be easier to implement in routine work.