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Olasege BS, van den Berg I, Haile-Mariam M, Ho PN, Yin Oh Z, Porto-Neto LR, Hayes BJ, Pryce JE, Fortes MRS. Dissecting loci that underpin the genetic correlations between production, fertility, and urea traits in Australian Holstein cattle. Anim Genet 2024; 55:540-558. [PMID: 38885945 DOI: 10.1111/age.13455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Unfavorable genetic correlations between milk production, fertility, and urea traits have been reported. However, knowledge of the genomic regions associated with these unfavorable correlations is limited. Here, we used the correlation scan method to identify and investigate the regions driving or antagonizing the genetic correlations between production vs. fertility, urea vs. fertility, and urea vs. production traits. Driving regions produce an estimate of correlation that is in the same direction as the global correlation. Antagonizing regions produce an estimate in the opposite direction of the global estimates. Our dataset comprised 6567, 4700, and 12,658 Holstein cattle with records of production traits (milk yield, fat yield, and protein yield), fertility (calving interval) and urea traits (milk urea nitrogen and blood urea nitrogen predicted using milk-mid-infrared spectroscopy), respectively. Several regions across the genome drive the correlations between production, fertility, and urea traits. Antagonizing regions were confined to certain parts of the genome and the genes within these regions were mostly involved in preventing metabolic dysregulation, liver reprogramming, metabolism remodeling, and lipid homeostasis. The driving regions were enriched for QTL related to puberty, milk, and health-related traits. Antagonizing regions were mostly related to muscle development, metabolic body weight, and milk traits. In conclusion, we have identified genomic regions of potential importance for dairy cattle breeding. Future studies could investigate the antagonizing regions as potential genomic regions to break the unfavorable correlations and improve milk production as well as fertility and urea traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babatunde S Olasege
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, Saint Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Irene van den Berg
- Agriculture Victoria, AgriBio, Centre for AgriBioscience, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mekonnen Haile-Mariam
- Agriculture Victoria, AgriBio, Centre for AgriBioscience, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
- School of Applied Systems Biology, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Phuong N Ho
- Agriculture Victoria, AgriBio, Centre for AgriBioscience, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Zhen Yin Oh
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Ben J Hayes
- The University of Queensland, Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI), Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jennie E Pryce
- Agriculture Victoria, AgriBio, Centre for AgriBioscience, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
- School of Applied Systems Biology, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Marina R S Fortes
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- The University of Queensland, Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI), Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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2
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Dezetter C, Bidan F, Delaby L, Blanc F, Freret S, Bedere N. Association between body condition profiles, milk production and reproduction performance in Holstein and Normande cows. J Dairy Sci 2024:S0022-0302(24)00945-7. [PMID: 38908695 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2024-24766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
Body-condition dynamics are known to affect the different steps of reproduction in cattle (cyclicity, estrus expression, fertilization, embryo development). This has led to a widespread idea that there is an ideal-target optimal body condition, but no clear profile has yet been identified. Here we investigated the relationships between body condition score (BCS) profiles and reproductive performance in dairy cows. Data were from Holstein or Normande herds in 6 French experimental farms. In the Holstein breed, we discriminated 4 BCS profiles based on combining BCS at calving (Low: around 2.6 points, or High: around 3.3 points) with BCS loss after calving (Moderate (M): ≤ 1.0 points, or Severe (S): > 1.0 points). The Low-M profile mostly included multiparous cows with higher milk yield and lower reproductive performance than cows in the 3 other profiles. Low-M cows that experienced abnormal ovarian activity had lower reproductive performance than their profile-mates. Moreover, 67% of Low-M cows kept the same profile at the following lactation. The High-S profile mostly included primiparous cows with lower milk yield and higher reproductive performance than cows in other profiles. In High-S cows, higher milk yields correlated to higher risk of failure to calf on first insemination. Moreover, 38% of High-S cows kept the same profile at the following lactation, and none changed to Low-M. The other 2 BCS profiles (Low-S and High-M) were intermediate in terms of milk yield and reproductive performance. In Normande, we discriminated 3 BCS profiles based on combining BCS at calving (Low: around 2.6 points, or High: around 3.5 points) with BCS loss after calving (Flat (F): flat with no loss, Moderate (M): around 0.5 points, or Severe (S): around 1.0 point). The Low-M and High-S profiles included cows with similar performance, even though High-S-profile cows showed better but not significantly different milk yield and reproduction performance. The High-F profile included cows that were more likely to experience abnormal ovarian activity and fail at first insemination than cows in other profiles. More than 50% of Normande cows with 2 successive lactations kept in the same BCS profile at the next lactation. Even though a low BCS at calving combined with severe BCS loss (more than 1 point) after calving was found to increase reproductive failure, there was no evidence of an optimal BCS profile for reproduction in dairy cows, and reproductive success or failure is multifactorial.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Dezetter
- Ecole Supérieure des Agricultures (ESA), INRAE, USC URSE, 55 rue Rabelais, 49000 Angers, France.
| | - F Bidan
- Institut de l'Elevage, 149 rue de Bercy, 75595 Paris Cedex 12, France
| | - L Delaby
- INRAE, Institut Agro, PEGASE, 35590 Saint-Gilles, France
| | - F Blanc
- Université Clermont Auvergne, INRAE, VetAgro Sup, UMR Herbivores, 63122 Saint-Genes-Champanelle, France
| | - S Freret
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - N Bedere
- INRAE, Institut Agro, PEGASE, 35590 Saint-Gilles, France
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3
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Ng TT, Fascetti AJ, Larsen JA. Reproduction of Domestic Cats in Laboratories, Catteries, and Feral Colonies: A Review. Top Companion Anim Med 2023; 55:100780. [PMID: 37225041 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcam.2023.100780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Cat reproduction is important for research and commercial cat breeding operations, as well as the control of feral cat populations. This review describes studies examining reproductive performance in laboratory cats, privately-owned breeding cats, and feral cats, including sexual maturity, the estrous cycle (timing, behavior, and hormonal changes), seasonal effects, gestation length, parturition (litter size, litter weight, and parity effects), mortality, and stillbirth. Because the studies highlighted in this review vary in the location where they were conducted and the region's management practices, these factors should be considered depending on the goal of the reader when interpreting these data. Furthermore, standard practices were lacking in some earlier studies of cat reproduction, so they should be considered for historical context only and may not reflect the actual reproductive potential of cats as described in the new studies due to advancements in husbandry practices and nutrition. The objective of this manuscript is to review scientific studies examining reproductive performance in laboratory cats, privately-owned breeding cats, and feral cats. The data sources for this manuscript included original research publications and scientific reviews from the veterinary literature. All reviews or studies that augmented the knowledge of the reproduction of domestic cats in laboratories, catteries, and feral colonies were included. Most studies on laboratory cats have been conducted under the conditions of controlled light cycles, temperature, and diet. The environmental effects on reproductive behavior are subtler than those in feral cat studies, but the effects are still distinguishable. Cat breeding studies focus on genetic effects and rely heavily on surveys or questionnaires from cat breeders. However, the reliability of these data can be variable, in part because the methodology of record-keeping and other protocols are generally not reported. In addition, laboratory animal management standards, specific pathogen-free cat colonies, and nutritional requirements for cats were not fully established until the 1970s. Reproductive outcomes of earlier studies may not be a true representation of the modern cat due to more advanced, regulated husbandry practices, including improvements in nutrition, resulting in diets formulated to meet feline requirements for every life stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theros T Ng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA, USA.
| | - Andrea J Fascetti
- Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer A Larsen
- Molecular Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
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4
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Lean I, Golder H, LeBlanc S, Duffield T, Santos J. Increased parity is negatively associated with survival and reproduction in different production systems. J Dairy Sci 2022; 106:476-499. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-21672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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5
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Banda LJ, Chagunda MGG, Ashworth CJ, Roberts DJ. Associations among body energy status, feeding duration and activity with respect to diet energy and protein content in housed dairy cows. J DAIRY RES 2022; 89:1-6. [PMID: 35387694 DOI: 10.1017/s0022029922000267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The study in this research paper was undertaken with a hypothesis that accelerometer data can be used to improve monitoring of energy balance in dairy cows. Animals of high (select, S) and average (control, C) genetic-merit lines were allocated to two feeding systems, by-product (BP) and homegrown (HG). This culminated in four production systems referred to as BPS, BPC, HGS and HGC. Cows between their first and fourth lactations were included and a total of 8602 records were used. The target crude protein (CP) and metabolisable energy (ME) content in the BP diet was 185 g/kg DM and 12.3 MJ/kg DM while it was 180 g/kg DM, and 11.5 MJ/kg DM for the HG diet, respectively. Milk yield, body energy content (BEC) and animal activity were monitored while the animals were all housed for winter. Results showed that cows on homegrown feeds were significantly (P < 0.05) more active than cows on by-product feeds as indicated by higher motion index and number of steps per day. Feeding duration was not significantly different (P > 0.05) between cows under by-product feeding system irrespective of the energy balance of the cows. However, there were significant differences for cows under homegrown feeding system. Cows in negative energy balance had a longer feeding duration per day than cows in positive energy balance. Milk yield was negatively correlated (P < 0.05) to motion index and number of steps per day but not to lying time and feeding duration. The results showed differences in cow activity were related to diet content and body energy status. This is useful in precision farming where feeds are provided according to specific animal behaviour and feed requirements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liveness Jessica Banda
- SRUC Research King's Buildings, Scotland's Rural College, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, UK
- The Roslin Institute and R (D) SVS, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Penicuik EH25 9RG, UK
- Animal Science Department, Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, P.O. Box 219, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Mizeck Gift Gibson Chagunda
- SRUC Research King's Buildings, Scotland's Rural College, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, UK
- Animal Breeding & Husbandry in the Tropics & Subtropics, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstr. 17, 70599Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Cheryl Joy Ashworth
- The Roslin Institute and R (D) SVS, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Penicuik EH25 9RG, UK
| | - David John Roberts
- SRUC Research King's Buildings, Scotland's Rural College, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, UK
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6
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Zanon T, König S, Gauly M. A comparison of animal-related figures in milk and meat production and economic revenues from milk and animal sales of five dairy cattle breeds reared in Alps region. ITALIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/1828051x.2020.1839361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Zanon
- Facoltà di Scienze e Tecnologie, Free University of Bolzano, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Sven König
- Institut für Tierzucht und Haustiergenetik, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Matthias Gauly
- Facoltà di Scienze e Tecnologie, Free University of Bolzano, Bolzano, Italy
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7
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Impacts of feeding a fish-oil based feed supplement through 160 days in milk on reproductive and productive performance, as well as the health, of multiparous early-lactation Holstein cows. Anim Feed Sci Technol 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anifeedsci.2020.114618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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8
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Effects of micronutrient supplementation on performance and epigenetic status in dairy cows. Animal 2020; 14:2326-2335. [PMID: 32522297 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731120001159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The postpartum period is crucial in dairy cows and is marked by major physiological and metabolic changes that affect milk production, immune response and fertility. Nutrition remains the most important lever for limiting the negative energy balance and its consequences on general health status in highly selected dairy cows. In order to analyze the effect of a commercial micronutrient on intrinsic parameters, performances and the epigenome of dairy cows, 2 groups of 12 Holstein cows were used: 1 fed a standard diet (mainly composed of corn silage, soybean meal and non-mineral supplement) and the other 1 fed the same diet supplemented with the commercial micronutrient (µ-nutrient supplementation) for 4 weeks before calving and 8 weeks thereafter. Milk production and composition, BW, body condition score (BCS), DM intake (DMI) and health (calving score, metritis and mastitis) were recorded over the study period. Milk samples were collected on D15 and D60 post-calving for analyses of casein, Na+ and K+ contents and metalloprotease activity. Milk leukocytes and milk mammary epithelial cells (mMECs) were purified and counted. The viability of mMECs was assessed, together with their activity, through an analysis of gene expression. At the same time points, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were purified and counted. Using genomic DNA extracted from PBMCs, mMECs and milk leukocytes, we assessed global DNA methylation (Me-CCGG) to evaluate the epigenetic imprinting associated with the µ-nutrient-supplemented diet. The µ-nutrient supplementation increased BCS and BW without modifying DMI or milk yield and composition. It also improved calving condition, reducing the time interval between calving and first service. Each easily collectable cell type displayed a specific pattern of Me-CCGG with only subtle changes associated with lactation stages in PBMCs. In conclusion, the response to the µ-nutrient supplementation improved the body condition without alteration of global epigenetic status in dairy cows.
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9
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Lima FS, Silvestre FT, Peñagaricano F, Thatcher WW. Early genomic prediction of daughter pregnancy rate is associated with improved reproductive performance in Holstein dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2020; 103:3312-3324. [PMID: 32089311 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2019-17488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The use of genomic testing for selecting replacement heifers in commercial farms has recently attracted much attention. Fertility traits are among the most complex, hard to measure, and lowly heritable traits, and hence they can benefit the most from genomic testing. The objectives of this study were to assess the relationship between early genomic prediction of daughter pregnancy rate (GDPR) and pregnancy at the first service (P1), pregnancy at the end of lactation (PEND), number of services for conception (NSFC), days from calving to first service (TP1), and days open (TPEND). Data for GDPR, milk production, and reproductive outcomes from 1,401 multiparous and 3,044 primiparous Holstein cows from 4 commercial farms with the same reproductive management were used in the analyses. All animals were genotyped and genomically evaluated as heifers before first breeding, so no phenotypic data were available for predicting genomic merits. In addition, all animals were genotyped and evaluated as heifers before first breeding, so no phenotypic data were available for prediction. Data for GDPR and milk production were categorized in quartiles. The statistical models included GDPR, farm-year-season of the first insemination, milk yield, breeding code (estrus detection or timed artificial insemination), and the interaction terms as potential predictors for the different reproductive outcomes evaluated. Data were analyzed separately for primiparous and multiparous cows. The proportion of cows bred by estrus detection increased linearly from lowest to highest GDPR in primiparous cows. There were positive associations of GDPR for P1, PEND, NSFC, TP1, and TPEND in both primiparous and multiparous cows. For instance, positive GDPR effects in multiparous cows included a 15.7% higher P1 (47.6% vs. 31.9%), 11.9% higher PEND (84.9% vs. 73.0%), and 48.0-d shorter TPEND (139.8 vs. 175.7 d) for the highest quartile compared with the lowest quartile. Milk yield affected PEND in multiparous cows, and TPEND and NSFC affected PEND in primiparous cows. The only significant interaction between GDPR and milk production was detected for NSFC in primiparous cows, where high-producing cows showed a reduction in NSFC as GDPR increased, whereas low-producing cows showed no relationship between GDPR and NSFC. Overall, our findings show that GDPR can be effectively used as a predictor of future reproductive performance, reaffirming the potential benefits of applying early genomic predictions for making accurate early selection decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- F S Lima
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana 61802.
| | | | - F Peñagaricano
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville 32611; University of Florida Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville 32611
| | - W W Thatcher
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville 32611
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10
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Meta-analysis of the relationships between reproduction, milk yield and body condition score in dairy cows. Livest Sci 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2018.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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11
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Lesage-Padilla A, Forde N, Poirée M, Healey GD, Giraud-Delville C, Reinaud P, Eozenou C, Vitorino Carvalho A, Galio L, Raliou M, Oudin JF, Richard C, Sheldon IM, Charpigny G, Lonergan P, Sandra O. Maternal metabolism affects endometrial expression of oxidative stress and FOXL2 genes in cattle. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0189942. [PMID: 29281695 PMCID: PMC5744954 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0189942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Intensive selection for milk production has led to reduced reproductive efficiency in high-producing dairy cattle. The impact of intensive milk production on oocyte quality as well as early embryo development has been established but few analyses have addressed this question at the initiation of implantation, a critical milestone ensuring a successful pregnancy and normal post-natal development. Our study aimed to determine if contrasted maternal metabolism affects the previously described sensory properties of the endometrium to the conceptus in cattle. Following embryo transfer at Day 7 post-oestrus, endometrial caruncular (CAR) and intercaruncular (ICAR) areas were collected at Day 19 from primiparous postpartum Holstein-Friesian cows that were dried-off immediately after parturition (i.e., never milked; DRY) or milked twice daily (LACT). Gene quantification indicated no significant impact of lactation on endometrial expression of transcripts previously reported as conceptus-regulated (PLET1, PTGS2, SOCS6) and interferon-tau stimulated (RSAD2, SOCS1, SOCS3, STAT1) factors or known as female hormone-regulated genes (FOXL2, SCARA5, PTGS2). Compared with LACT cows, DRY cows exhibited mRNA levels with increased expression for FOXL2 transcription factor and decreased expression for oxidative stress-related genes (CAT, SOD1, SOD2). In vivo and in vitro experiments highlighted that neither interferon-tau nor FOXL2 were involved in transcriptional regulation of CAT, SOD1 and SOD2. In addition, our data showed that variations in maternal metabolism had a higher impact on gene expression in ICAR areas. Collectively, our findings prompt the need to fully understand the extent to which modifications in endometrial physiology drive the trajectory of conceptus development from implantation onwards when maternal metabolism is altered.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Niamh Forde
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mélanie Poirée
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France
| | - Gareth D. Healey
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Caroline Eozenou
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France
| | | | - Laurent Galio
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France
| | - Mariam Raliou
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France
| | | | | | - I. Martin Sheldon
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Gilles Charpigny
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France
| | - Pat Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Olivier Sandra
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France
- * E-mail:
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12
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Mellouk N, Rame C, Touzé JL, Briant E, Ma L, Guillaume D, Lomet D, Caraty A, Ntallaris T, Humblot P, Dupont J. Involvement of plasma adipokines in metabolic and reproductive parameters in Holstein dairy cows fed with diets with differing energy levels. J Dairy Sci 2017; 100:8518-8533. [PMID: 28803009 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2017-12657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2017] [Accepted: 06/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the association between plasma adipokine concentrations and metabolic and reproductive parameters in Holstein dairy cows fed diets with different energy levels during the peripartum period. The experiment started 1 mo before first calving and was maintained for 2 lactations. Dry matter intake and energy balance in animals fed a low-energy (LE) diet were significantly lower than that of animals fed a high-energy (HE) diet in the first lactation. Body weight, milk production, back fat thickness, and plasma concentrations of fatty acids, glucose, and insulin were not affected by diet, whereas plasma leptin and adiponectin concentrations were lower and plasma resistin concentrations higher in animals fed the LE diet. Unlike concentrations of adiponectin, plasma resistin concentrations were positively correlated with back fat thickness and plasma fatty acids concentrations and negatively correlated with dry matter intake and plasma leptin concentrations. No effect of diet was found on reproductive variables; that is, pregnancy rates at 35 or 90 d after artificial insemination (AI); numbers of small (3-5 mm), medium (>5 and ≤7 mm), and large (>7 mm) follicles; calving-to-AI and calving-to-calving intervals; and magnitude and duration of the LH surge. However, the commencement of luteal activity after first calving occurred sooner and the frequency of LH pulses was higher in the HE group than in the LE group. A significant positive correlation was found between the number of follicles (of any size) and the area under the curve of plasma resistin concentrations. The number of small follicles was also positively correlated with the nadir of plasma resistin concentrations. Taken together, these results suggest that dietary energy content in the range applied here can alter the resumption of ovarian activity and LH pulsatility without affecting fat mobilization. Plasma adipokine profiles (leptin, resistin, and adiponectin) were significantly altered by diet and negative energy balance but relationships with reproductive variables were limited to follicular growth characteristics and plasma resistin concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Mellouk
- INRA UMR85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; CNRS UMR7247 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; Université François Rabelais de Tours, F-37041 Tours, France; IFCE, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - C Rame
- INRA UMR85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; CNRS UMR7247 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; Université François Rabelais de Tours, F-37041 Tours, France; IFCE, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - J L Touzé
- INRA UMR85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; CNRS UMR7247 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; Université François Rabelais de Tours, F-37041 Tours, France; IFCE, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - E Briant
- INRA, UEPAO 1297, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - L Ma
- INRA UMR85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; CNRS UMR7247 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; Université François Rabelais de Tours, F-37041 Tours, France; IFCE, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - D Guillaume
- INRA UMR85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; CNRS UMR7247 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; Université François Rabelais de Tours, F-37041 Tours, France; IFCE, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - D Lomet
- INRA UMR85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; CNRS UMR7247 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; Université François Rabelais de Tours, F-37041 Tours, France; IFCE, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - A Caraty
- INRA UMR85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; CNRS UMR7247 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; Université François Rabelais de Tours, F-37041 Tours, France; IFCE, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - T Ntallaris
- Division of Reproduction, Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden 75103
| | - P Humblot
- Division of Reproduction, Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden 75103
| | - J Dupont
- INRA UMR85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; CNRS UMR7247 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; Université François Rabelais de Tours, F-37041 Tours, France; IFCE, F-37380 Nouzilly, France.
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13
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Bedere N, Disenhaus C, Ducrocq V, Leurent-Colette S, Delaby L. Ability of dairy cows to ensure pregnancy according to breed and genetic merit for production traits under contrasted pasture-based systems. J Dairy Sci 2017; 100:2812-2827. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2016-11588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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14
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Diskin MG, Waters SM, Parr MH, Kenny DA. Pregnancy losses in cattle: potential for improvement. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 28:83-93. [PMID: 27062877 DOI: 10.1071/rd15366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
For heifers, beef and moderate-yielding dairy cows, it appears that the fertilisation rate generally lies between 90% and 100%. For high-producing dairy cows, there is a less substantive body of literature, but it would appear that the fertilisation rate is somewhat lower and possibly more variable. In cattle, the major component of embryo loss occurs in the first 16 days following breeding (Day 0), with emerging evidence of greater losses before Day 8 in high-producing dairy cows. In cattle, late embryo mortality causes serious economic losses because it is often recognised too late to rebreed females. Systemic concentrations of progesterone during both the cycle preceding and following insemination affect embryo survival, with evidence of either excessive or insufficient concentrations being negatively associated with survival rate. The application of direct progesterone supplementation or treatments to increase endogenous output of progesterone to increase embryo survival cannot be recommended at this time. Energy balance and dry matter intake during the first 4 weeks after calving are critically important in determining pregnancies per AI when cows are inseminated at 70-100 days after calving. Level of concentrate supplementation of cows at pasture during the breeding period has minimal effects on conception rates, although sudden reductions in dietary intake should be avoided. For all systems of milk production, more balanced breeding strategies with greater emphasis on fertility and feed intake and/or energy must be developed. There is genetic variability within the Holstein breed for fertility traits, which can be exploited. Genomic technology will not only provide scientists with an improved understanding of the underlying biological processes involved in fertilisation and the establishment of pregnancy, but also, in the future, could identify genes responsible for improved embryo survival. Such information could be incorporated into breeding objectives in order to increase the rate of genetic progress for embryo survival. In addition, there is a range of easily adoptable management factors, under producer control, that can either directly increase embryo survival or ameliorate the consequences of low embryo survival rates. The correction of minor deficits in several areas can have a substantial cumulative positive effect on herd reproductive performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- M G Diskin
- Teagasc, Animal and Grassland and Innovation Research Centre, Mellows Campus, Athenry, Co. Galway, H65 R718, Ireland
| | - S M Waters
- Teagasc, Animal and Grassland and Innovation Research Centre, Grange, Dunsany, Co. Meath, C15 PW93, Ireland
| | - M H Parr
- Teagasc, Animal and Grassland and Innovation Research Centre, Grange, Dunsany, Co. Meath, C15 PW93, Ireland
| | - D A Kenny
- Teagasc, Animal and Grassland and Innovation Research Centre, Grange, Dunsany, Co. Meath, C15 PW93, Ireland
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15
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Ability of dairy cows to be inseminated according to breed and genetic merit for production traits under contrasting pasture-based feeding systems. Animal 2017; 11:826-835. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731116002111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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16
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López-Alonso M, Rey-Crespo F, Orjales I, Rodríguez-Bermúdez R, Miranda M. Effects of different strategies of mineral supplementation (marine algae alone or combined with rumen boluses) in organic dairy systems. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2016; 100:836-43. [DOI: 10.1111/jpn.12449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2015] [Accepted: 11/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M. López-Alonso
- Departamento de Patología Animal; Facultad de Veterinaria; Universidad de Santiago de Compostela; Lugo Spain
| | - F. Rey-Crespo
- Departamento de Patología Animal; Facultad de Veterinaria; Universidad de Santiago de Compostela; Lugo Spain
- Centro Tecnológico Agroalimentario de Lugo (CETAL); Lugo Spain
| | - I. Orjales
- Departamento de Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias; Facultad de Veterinaria; Universidad de Santiago de Compostela; Lugo Spain
| | | | - M. Miranda
- Departamento de Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias; Facultad de Veterinaria; Universidad de Santiago de Compostela; Lugo Spain
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17
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Bedere N, Delaby L, Ducrocq V, Leurent-Colette S, Disenhaus C. Toward improved postpartum cyclicity of primiparous dairy cows: Effects of genetic merit for production traits under contrasting feeding systems. J Dairy Sci 2016; 99:1266-1276. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2015-9843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2015] [Accepted: 09/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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18
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Modelling impacts of performance on the probability of reproducing, and thereby on productive lifespan, allow prediction of lifetime efficiency in dairy cows. Animal 2016; 10:106-16. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731115001718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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19
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Ollion E, Ingrand S, Delaby L, Trommenschlager J, Colette-Leurent S, Blanc F. Assessing the diversity of trade-offs between life functions in early lactation dairy cows. Livest Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2015.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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20
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Yasui T, McCarthy MM, Ryan CM, Gilbert RO, Felippe MJB, Mechor GD, Overton TR. Effects of monensin and starch level in early lactation diets on indices of immune function in dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2015; 99:1351-1363. [PMID: 26709159 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2015-9572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2015] [Accepted: 09/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of dietary starch level and monensin on immune function. Prior to parturition, primiparous (n=21) and multiparous (n=49) Holstein cows were fed a common controlled energy close-up diet with a daily topdress of either 0 or 400 mg/d monensin. From 1 to 21 d in milk (DIM), cows were fed a high-starch (HS; 26.2% starch) or low-starch (LS; 21.5% starch) total mixed ration with a daily topdress of either 0 or 450 mg of monensin/d continuing with prepartum topdress assignment. From 22 through 63 DIM, all cows were fed HS and continued with assigned topdress treatment until 63 DIM. Endometrial cytology and whole-blood immune function were assessed at 8 DIM and on 1 d between 40 and 60 DIM. At 8 DIM, cows fed HS had an increased percentage (%) of phagocytic monocytes and tended to have a greater phagocytosis index (% of positive cells × mean fluorescence intensity) in monocytes compared with cows fed LS. At 8 DIM, cows fed HS also tended to have a higher percentage of monocytes involved in oxidative burst and a higher monocyte oxidative burst index compared with LS cows. At 8 DIM, blood polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) isolated from cows fed monensin during the periparturient period tended to have higher PMN glycogen content compared with control cows. At 40 to 60 DIM, the incidence of cytological endometritis as diagnosed by uterine cytology was not affected by dietary treatment. However, at 40 to 60 DIM, cows fed monensin had an increased percentage of Escherichia coli-stimulated PMN, tended to have a greater percentage of monocytes involved in oxidative burst, and tended to have an increased E. coli-stimulated monocyte oxidative burst index. At 40 to 60 DIM, blood PMN isolated from cows fed HS during early lactation had higher PMN glycogen content compared with cows fed LS during early lactation. Overall, results suggest that feeding higher starch diets postpartum and peripartal supplementation with monensin may have some beneficial effects on immune function, although uterine cytology was not affected by treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Yasui
- Department of Animal Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - M M McCarthy
- Department of Animal Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - C M Ryan
- Department of Animal Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - R O Gilbert
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - M J B Felippe
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - G D Mechor
- Elanco Animal Health, Greenfield, IN 46140
| | - T R Overton
- Department of Animal Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853.
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21
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Abstract
Evolutionary biology provides reasons for why the intensive selection for milk production reduces reproductive success rates. There is considerable exploitable genetic variation in reproductive performance in both dairy and beef cattle, and examination of national genetic trends demonstrates that genetic gain for both reproductive performance and milk production is possible in a well-structured breeding program. Reproductive failure is often postulated to be a consequence of the greater negative energy balance associated with the genetic selection for increased milk production. However, experimental results indicate that the majority of the decline in reproductive performance cannot be attributed to early lactation energy balance, per se; reproductive success will, therefore, not be greatly improved by nutritional interventions aimed at reducing the extent of negative energy balance. Modeling can aid in better pinpointing the key physiological components governing reproductive success and, also, the impact of individual improvements on overall fertility, helping to prioritize variables for inclusion in breeding programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- D P Berry
- Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Center, Teagasc, Moorepark, County Cork, Ireland;
| | - N C Friggens
- INRA and.,AgroParisTech, UMR0791 Modélisation Systémique Appliqué aux Ruminants, 75231 Paris, France;
| | - M Lucy
- Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri 65211;
| | - J R Roche
- DairyNZ Ltd., Hamilton 3240, New Zealand;
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22
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Martin AD, Afseth NK, Kohler A, Randby Å, Eknæs M, Waldmann A, Dørum G, Måge I, Reksen O. The relationship between fatty acid profiles in milk identified by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and onset of luteal activity in Norwegian dairy cattle. J Dairy Sci 2015; 98:5374-84. [PMID: 26004832 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2015-9343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2015] [Accepted: 04/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
To investigate the feasibility of milk fatty acids as predictors of onset of luteal activity (OLA), 87 lactations taken from 73 healthy Norwegian Red cattle were surveyed over 2 winter housing seasons. The feasibility of using frozen milk samples for dry-film Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) determination of milk samples was also tested. Morning milk samples were collected thrice weekly (Monday, Wednesday, Friday) for the first 10 wk in milk (WIM). These samples had bronopol (2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol) added to them before being frozen at -20°C, thawed, and analyzed by ELISA to determine progesterone concentration and the concentrations of the milk fatty acids C4:0, C14:0, C16:0, C18:0, and cis-9 C18:1 as a proportion of total milk fatty acid content using dry-film FTIR, and averaged by WIM. Onset of luteal activity was defined as the first day that milk progesterone concentrations were >3 ng/mL for 2 successive measurements; the study population was categorized as early (n=47) or late (n=40) OLA, using the median value of 21 DIM as the cutoff. Further milk samples were collected 6 times weekly, from morning and afternoon milkings, these were pooled by WIM, and one proportional sample was analyzed fresh for fat, protein, and lactose content by the dairy company Tine SA, using traditional FTIR spectrography in the wet phase of milk. Daily energy-balance calculations were performed in 42 lactations and averaged by WIM. Animals experiencing late OLA had a more negative energy balance in WIM 1, 3, 4, and 5, with the greatest differences been seen in WIM 3 and 4. A higher proportion of the fatty acids were medium chained, C14:0 and C16:0, in the early than in the late OLA group from WIM 1. In WIM 4, the proportion of total fatty acid content that was C16:0 predicted late OLA, with 74% sensitivity and 80% specificity. The long-chain proportion of the fatty acids C18:0 and cis-9 C18:1 were lower in the early than in the late OLA group. Differences were greatest in WIM 4 and 5. Differences in concentrations of cis-9 C18:1 were seen between the groups from WIM 1. No relationship was seen between OLA and milk concentrations of either protein or fat, or between OLA and the milk fat:protein ratio. The differences in milk fatty acid proportions between the 2 groups are most likely related to differences in energy balance. The study shows that frozen milk samples can be tested for fatty acids by FTIR spectroscopy and that FTIR spectroscopy of milk can be used to provide real-time information about cow reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- A D Martin
- Department of Production Animal Clinical Sciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, PO Box 8146, NO-0033 Oslo, Norway.
| | - N K Afseth
- Nofima-Food Research Institute, Osloveien 1, 1430 Ås, Norway
| | - A Kohler
- Department of Mathematical Sciences and Technology, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, PO Box 5003, 1432 Ås, Norway
| | - Å Randby
- Department of Animal and Aquacultural Sciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, PO Box 5003, 1432 Ås, Norway
| | - M Eknæs
- Department of Animal and Aquacultural Sciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, PO Box 5003, 1432 Ås, Norway
| | - A Waldmann
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, 51014 Tartu, Estonia
| | - G Dørum
- Department of Chemistry, Biotechnology and Food Science, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, PO Box 5003, 1432 Ås, Norway
| | - I Måge
- Nofima-Food Research Institute, Osloveien 1, 1430 Ås, Norway
| | - O Reksen
- Department of Production Animal Clinical Sciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, PO Box 8146, NO-0033 Oslo, Norway
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23
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Hills JL, Wales WJ, Dunshea FR, Garcia SC, Roche JR. Invited review: An evaluation of the likely effects of individualized feeding of concentrate supplements to pasture-based dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2015; 98:1363-401. [PMID: 25582585 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2014-8475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2014] [Accepted: 11/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In pasture-based dairy systems, supplementary feeds are used to increase dry matter intake and milk production. Historically, supplementation involved the provision of the same amount of feed (usually a grain-based concentrate feed) to each cow in the herd during milking (i.e., flat-rate feeding). The increasing availability of computerized feeding and milk monitoring technology in milking parlors, however, has led to increased interest in the potential benefits of feeding individual cows (i.e., individualized or differential feeding) different amounts and types of supplements according to one or more parameters (e.g., breeding value for milk yield, current milk yield, days in milk, body condition score, reproduction status, parity). In this review, we consider the likely benefits of individualized supplementary feeding strategies for pasture-based dairy cows fed supplements in the bail during milking. A unique feature of our review compared with earlier publications is the focus on individualized feeding strategies under practical grazing management. Previous reviews focused primarily on research undertaken in situations where cows were offered ad libitum forage, whereas we consider the likely benefits of individualized supplementary feeding strategies under rotational grazing management, wherein pasture is often restricted to all or part of a herd. The review provides compelling evidence that between-cow differences in response to concentrate supplements support the concept of individualized supplementary feeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- J L Hills
- Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, Dairy Center, The University of Tasmania, Burnie, Tasmania 7320, Australia
| | - W J Wales
- Agriculture Research Division, Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Ellinbank, Victoria 3821, Australia
| | - F R Dunshea
- Melbourne School of Land and Environment, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - S C Garcia
- MC Franklin Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Camden, New South Wales 2570, Australia
| | - J R Roche
- DairyNZ, Private Bag 3221, Hamilton 3240, New Zealand.
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24
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Phuong H, Martin O, de Boer I, Ingvartsen K, Schmidely P, Friggens N. Deriving estimates of individual variability in genetic potentials of performance traits for 3 dairy breeds, using a model of lifetime nutrient partitioning. J Dairy Sci 2015; 98:618-32. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2014-8250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2014] [Accepted: 10/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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25
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Parturition to resumption of ovarian cyclicity: comparative aspects of beef and dairy cows. Animal 2014; 8 Suppl 1:40-53. [PMID: 24680122 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731114000251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a variable anoestrous period following parturition in the cow. Follicular growth generally resumes within 7 to 10 days in the majority of cows associated with a transient FSH rise that occurs within 3 to 5 days of parturition. Dairy cows that are not nutritionally stressed generally ovulate their first postpartum dominant follicle (~15 days), whereas beef suckler cows in good body condition normally have a mean of 3.2±0.2 dominant follicles (~30 days) to first ovulation; moreover, beef cows in poor body condition have a mean of 10.6±1.2 dominant follicles (~70 to 100 days) to first ovulation. The lack of ovulation of dominant follicles during the postpartum period is associated with infrequent LH pulses, with both maternal-offspring bonding and low body condition score (BCS) at calving being implicated as the predominant causes of delayed resumption of cyclicity in nursed beef cows. In dairy cows, the normal pattern of early resumption of ovulation may be delayed in high-yielding Holstein type cows generally owing to the effects of severe negative energy balance, dystocia, retained placental membranes and uterine infections. First ovulation, in both dairy and beef cows, is generally silent (i.e., no behavioural oestrus) and followed by a short inter-ovulatory interval (>70%). The key to optimizing the resumption of ovulation in both beef and dairy cows is appropriate pre-calving nutrition and management so that cows calve down in optimal body condition (BCS; 2.75 to 3.0) with postpartum body condition loss restricted to <0.5 BCS units.
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26
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Tiezzi F, Maltecca C, Cecchinato A, Penasa M, Bittante G. Thin and fat cows, and the nonlinear genetic relationship between body condition score and fertility. J Dairy Sci 2013; 96:6730-41. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2013-6863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2013] [Accepted: 06/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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27
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Douhard F, Friggens N, Tessier J, Martin O, Tichit M, Sauvant D. Characterization of a changing relationship between milk production and liveweight for dairy goats undergoing extended lactation. J Dairy Sci 2013; 96:5698-711. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2012-6374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2012] [Accepted: 06/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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28
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Data-derived reference profiles with corepresentation of progesterone, estradiol, LH, and FSH dynamics during the bovine estrous cycle. Theriogenology 2013; 79:331-43.e1-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2012.09.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2012] [Revised: 09/21/2012] [Accepted: 09/29/2012] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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29
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Advances in predicting nutrient partitioning in the dairy cow: recognizing the central role of genotype and its expression through time. Animal 2013; 7 Suppl 1:89-101. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731111001820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
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30
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An individual reproduction model sensitive to milk yield and body condition in Holstein dairy cows. Animal 2013; 7:1332-43. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731113000335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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31
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Abstract
For heifers, beef and moderate-yielding dairy cows, fertilisation generally exceeds 90%. In high-producing dairy cows, it may be lower and possibly more variable. The major component of embryo loss occurs before Day 16 following breeding, with emerging evidence of greater losses before Day 8 in high-producing dairy cows. Late embryo loss causes serious economic losses because it is often recognised too late to rebreed females. Systemic concentrations of progesterone during the cycles both preceding and following insemination affect embryo survival; too-high or too-low a concentration has been shown to be negatively associated with survival rate. Energy balance and dry matter intake during the 4 weeks after calving are critically important in determining conception rate when cows are inseminated 70 to 100 days after calving. More balanced breeding strategies with greater emphasis on fertility, feed intake and energy must be developed. Genetic variability for fertility traits can be exploited; genomic technology will not only provide scientists with an improved understanding of the underlying biological processes involved in fertilisation and the establishment of pregnancy, but could identify genes responsible for improved embryo survival. Their incorporation into breeding objectives would increase the rate of genetic progress for embryo survival. There is a range of easily adoptable management factors, under producer control, that can either directly increase embryo survival or ameliorate the consequences of low embryo survival rates. The correction of minor deficits in several areas can have a substantial overall effect on herd reproductive performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- M G Diskin
- Teagasc, Animal & Grassland and Innovation Research Centre, Mellows Campus, Athenry, Co. Galway, Ireland.
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32
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Abstract
Summary
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33
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Towards a better understanding of the respective effects of milk yield and body condition dynamics on reproduction in Holstein dairy cows. Animal 2012; 6:476-87. [DOI: 10.1017/s175173111100173x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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34
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Hostens M, Fievez V, Vlaeminck B, Buyse J, Leroy J, Piepers S, De Vliegher S, Opsomer G. The effect of marine algae in the ration of high-yielding dairy cows during transition on metabolic parameters in serum and follicular fluid around parturition. J Dairy Sci 2011; 94:4603-15. [PMID: 21854933 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2010-3899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2010] [Accepted: 05/27/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Sixteen Holstein cows were assigned to 2 groups to evaluate the caloric and metabolic effect of feeding marine algae (ALG) from 3 wk prepartum until 12 wk postpartum. Milk production characteristics and the profiles of hormones and metabolites in the serum were monitored from -7 to 46 d in milk (DIM) and in follicular fluid (FF) from 14 to 46 DIM. All cows received a corn- and grass silage-based partially mixed ration supplemented with concentrate and protein supplement. In the diet of the ALG group, 2 kg of the concentrate was replaced by a concentrate containing ALG (44 g/d of docosahexaenoic acid). Diets were isocaloric (net energy basis) and equal in intestinal digestible protein. The ALG diet increased milk yield (41.2 vs. 38.2 kg/d) and decreased milk fat yield (1.181 vs. 1.493 kg/d) and milk fat content (31.6 vs. 40.7 g/kg). Protein yield (1.336 vs. 1.301 kg/d) was not affected but a tendency toward decreased milk protein content (32.8 vs. 34.7 g/kg) was observed. Marine algae supplementation increased the β-hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA) concentration in FF of the ALG cows compared with that in the controls (0.992 vs. 0.718 mmol/L). The total protein concentration in FF was decreased in ALG (62.9 vs. 67.6 g/L). Plasma and serum metabolites did not significantly differ between treatments except for a tendency toward a lower concentration of urea in the serum of the control compared with ALG (4.69 vs. 5.13 mmol/L). Based on metabolizable energy calculations, a daily energy-sparing effect of 3.48 Mcal was obtained due to milk fat depression (MFD). The concomitant increase in milk yield suggests that at least part of this spared energy is used to stimulate milk production. Theoretically, 3.48 Mcal of ME could lead to an increase in milk yield of 7.43 kg/d, which is higher than the observed 3 kg/d. However, when evaluating nutrient requirements during MFD in early lactation, we calculated that increased milk production is caused by a propionate-saving effect of 2.71 mol in the udder when milk fat is depressed. Concurrent increased BHBA concentrations in FF in the ALG group cannot be attributed to a worsened energy status of the animals because all other indicators contradict any change in energy balance, indicating that BHBA might not be an appropriate metabolic parameter to estimate the energy balance in early lactating dairy cows during MFD.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Hostens
- Department of Reproduction, Obstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium.
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35
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Kafi M, Mirzaei A, Tamadon A, Saeb M. Factors affecting the occurrence of postpartum prolonged luteal activity in clinically healthy high-producing dairy cows. Theriogenology 2011; 77:421-9. [PMID: 21958642 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2011] [Revised: 08/05/2011] [Accepted: 08/13/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The objective was to characterize risk factors affecting the occurrence of prolonged luteal phase (PLP) in postpartum, clinically healthy, high-producing dairy cows. Transrectal ultrasound examinations of the reproductive tract were performed twice weekly, from the 1st to 8th wk after calving in 151 multiparous clinically healthy lactating Holstein cows (mean ± SD of peak milk yield = 56.7 ± 7.4 kg). Serum samples were collected twice weekly to measure progesterone and every 2 wk to detect β-hydroxybutyrate (βHB), and α1-acid glycoprotein (AGP). Body condition score (BCS) was recorded weekly after calving. Based on the serum progesterone profile, 52 (34.4%) cows had normal ovarian activity (NLA), whereas 36 (23.8%) cows had a prolonged luteal phase (PLP), the most prevalent type of abnormal pattern of luteal activity. Furthermore, 63 cows with short luteal activity, delayed first ovulation, or cystic ovaries were excluded from this study. Serum AGP concentrations, as an indication of postpartum chronic endometritis, were not different (P > 0.05) between cows with NLA and PLP. Categories of peak milk yields (kg) were positively correlated with the incidence (%) of cows with PLP (r = 0.87, P = 0.02). Furthermore, milk yield peak, day of milk yield peak, mean milk yield (8 wk in milk), and milk yield on the expected day of luteolysis were higher (P < 0.05) in cows with PLP than NLA, and cows with PLP had greater loss of BCS (P = 0.007) than those with NLA. The likelihood of cows with PLP decreased by 0.9-fold for every 1 d delay of commencement of luteal activity (C-LA). Moreover, the likelihood of cows with PLP increased by 1.8-fold for each 1 mmol/L increase in the 1st wk serum βHB concentrations. In conclusion, higher mean of milk yield, greater BCS loss, earlier C-LA, and later peak milk yield were the major risk factors affecting the occurrence of postpartum PLP in clinically healthy, high-producing dairy cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojtaba Kafi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
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36
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Ovarian activity in Fleckvieh, Brown Swiss and two strains of Holstein-Friesian cows in pasture-based, seasonal calving dairy systems. J DAIRY RES 2011; 78:464-70. [DOI: 10.1017/s0022029911000586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The objectives of the study were to compare the ovarian activity of Holstein-Friesian (CH HF), Fleckvieh (CH FV) and Brown Swiss (CH BS) dairy cows of Swiss origin with that of Holstein-Friesian (NZ HF) dairy cows of New Zealand origin, the latter being used as a reference for reproductive performance in pasture-based seasonal calving systems. Fifty, second-lactation NZ HF cows were each paired with a second-lactation Swiss cow (17, 15 and 18 CH HF, CH FV and CH BS respectively) in 13 pasture-based, seasonal-calving commercial dairy farms in Switzerland. Ovarian activity was monitored by progesterone profiling from calving to first breeding service. CH BS cows produced less energy-corrected milk (mean 22·8 kg/d) than the other breeds (26·0–26·5 kg/d) during the first 100 d of lactation. CH HF cows had the lowest body condition score (BCS) at calving and the greatest BCS loss from calving to 30 d post partum. Commencement of luteal activity (CLA) was later for NZ HF than for CH FV (51·5 v. 29·2 d; P <0·01), with CH HF and CH BS intermediate (43 d). On average, NZ HF and CH HF cows had one oestrous cycle before the onset of the seasonal breeding period; this was less (P<0·01) than either CH FV (1·7) or CH BS (1·6). There was a low prevalence of luteal persistency (3%) among the studied cows. First and second oestrous cycle inter-ovulatory intervals did not differ between breeds (20·5–22·6 d). The luteal phase length of CH BS during the second cycle was shorter (10·6 d) than that of the other breeds (13·8–16·0 d), but the inter-luteal interval was longer (9·8 d v. 7·0–8·0 d). The results suggest that the Swiss breeds investigated have a shorter interval from calving to CLA than NZ HF cows.
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Abstract
To establish sustainability in the dairy industry, it is important that cows become pregnant at a biologically optimal time and at an economically profitable interval after calving. In this review, the results obtained from Holstein cattle in an experimental herd for dairy research are summarized. First, the effect of age at first calving of heifers on productive and reproductive performance was examined. A reduction in calving age from 25.1 to 21.5 months with the same growth rate during the first 12 months after birth had no negative effects on the heifers' performance. Second, the postpartum follicular dynamics of lactating cows were traced in relation to their fertility, and the emergence and fate of cystic ovarian follicles were examined. The premature initiation of ovarian activity does not always improve the fertility of cows as indicated by the number of days open. Third, the occurrences of anestrous ovulation during the early postpartum period were analyzed with reference to the frequency of reversion to anestrus. The premature onset of estrous activity also did not improve fertility, and relapse back into anestrus after the onset of the estrous cycle often occurred during the breeding period. Fourth, some indices for the occurrence of postpartum reproductive events were evaluated as an indicator of the reproductive performance of lactating cows. The milk yield and percentage of body weight loss could be indicators for reproductive events. Finally, the potency of a pedometry system for the detection of typical and atypical estrous behaviors of heifers and lactating cows was evaluated in terms of efficiency and accuracy. The location of the pedometers and housing conditions for the animals affected the estrus detection of the system. These results represent the reproductive potential of modern high-yielding dairy cattle and provide a baseline to evaluate their reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minoru Sakaguchi
- Intensive Grazing Research Team, National Agricultural Research Center for Hokkaido Region, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization, Sapporo, Japan.
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Modification of endometrial fatty acid concentrations by the pre-implantation conceptus in pasture-fed dairy cows. J DAIRY RES 2011; 78:263-9. [DOI: 10.1017/s0022029911000173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The current study determined whether the pre-implantation conceptus modified endometrial fatty acid concentrations. Oestrus was synchronized in 14 mature lactating cows and embryos were transferred on day 7. Cows were slaughtered 10 d later, with each uterine horn flushed, the pre-implantation conceptus located, and inter-caruncular endometrial tissue collected from the gravid horn (containing the pre-implantation conceptus) and non-gravid horn. Endometrial fatty acid concentrations in the gravid and non-gravid horn were compared using linear models in restricted maxiumum likelihood. Investigations of the correlations among selected fatty acids and trophoblast weight or uterine fluid interferon-tau (IFN-τ) concentrations were also undertaken. The presence of the pre-implantation conceptus had relatively minor effects on endometrial fatty acid concentrations, but the ω6:ω3 ratio was greater and concentrations of stearic and oleic acid were slightly increased in the gravid horn. In the gravid horn, a negative linear relationship between the concentration of arachidonic acid and conceptus weight and IFN-τ concentration in the uterine luminal fluid were observed. In contrast, there was a positive relationship between concentrations of dihomo-γ-linolenic acid in the non-gravid horn and conceptus weight. In conclusion, the presence of the pre-implantation conceptus appears to modulate endometrial fatty acids, as indicated by the differences in endometrial fatty acid concentrations in the gravid and non-gravid uterine horns. The physiological implication of these local effects of the pre-implantation conceptus, on reproductive success requires further investigation.
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Roche JR, Burke CR, Meier S, Walker CG. Nutrition × reproduction interaction in pasture-based systems: is nutrition a factor in reproductive failure? ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2011. [DOI: 10.1071/an10162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Dairy cow fertility has declined in recent decades, coincidental with large increases in milk production. Cows take longer to return to oestrus, display poorer signs of oestrus, have greater early embryo loss, and may have poorer conception rates. The problem is often considered to be nutritional, at least in part, and, therefore, can be corrected through dietary adjustment. Although acknowledged as highly digestible, high quality pastured forages tend to be low in non-structural carbohydrates (NSC), high in rumen degradable protein and the temporal supply may not be adequate for cow demand at key times; diet adjustment is often recommended to overcome these limitations. The interaction between nutrition and reproduction is poorly defined, however, and study results are often contradictory. Hypothesised limitations to pastured forages within a grazing system will be discussed, and the likely impact of nutritional adjustment on pre- and post-ovulatory reproductive processes examined. The effect of energy balance, carbohydrate type, protein and fat on reproductive outcomes will be considered. Nutrition is an important component of successful reproduction, but dietary adjustment to improve pregnancy rates is complicated, and merely offering pastured cows a supplement is unlikely to result in large effects. Conclusions indicate that care must be taken in interpreting associative analyses and in applying results from different farming systems.
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40
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Dairy cows’ reproductive response to feeding level differs according to the reproductive stage and the breed. Animal 2011; 5:731-40. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731110002235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Sustainability of ruminant agriculture in the new context: feeding strategies and features of animal adaptability into the necessary holistic approach. Animal 2010; 4:1258-73. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731110001023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Modelling within the livestock farming systems research field: from cows to birds and farmers. Animal 2010. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731110000765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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