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Fuchs P, Stachowicz J, Schneider MK, Probo M, Bruckmaier RM, Umstätter C. Stress indicators in dairy cows adapting to virtual fencing. J Anim Sci 2024; 102:skae024. [PMID: 38271563 PMCID: PMC10889741 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skae024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Virtual fencing (VF) enables livestock grazing without physical fences by conditioning animals to a virtual boundary delimited with an audio tone (AT) and an electric pulse (EP). The present study followed the adaptation process of lactating dairy cows to a VF system with changing virtual boundaries and investigated its impact on animal welfare. Twenty cows were divided into stratified groups (2× VF; 2× electric fencing, EF) of five individuals. Each group grazed half-days in a separate EF paddock of comparable size during 3 d of acclimation (P0), followed by 21, 14, 14, and 7 d of experimental treatment (P1 to P4). At the start of the trial, all cows were equipped with an IceQube pedometer (Peacock Technology Ltd, Stirling, UK) and a VF collar (Nofence AS, Batnfjordsøra, Norway). During P0, cows were accustomed to their first paddock with a deactivated virtual boundary and wearing the sensors. In P1 to P4, an active virtual boundary for the VF groups, and a second EF for the EF groups was set up parallel to an outer EF within their paddock. Throughout the trial, the sensors continuously tracked cow positions and activity behavior at 15-min intervals. From P1 onwards, the VF collars additionally recorded each AT and EP per cow with a georeferenced time stamp. During P0 to P4, daily feed intake, body weight, and milk yield were recorded in the barn. A total of 26 milk samples were collected per cow to determine milk cortisol levels. Behavioral observations were conducted for 2 h on day 23 to record agonistic behaviors, vocalizations, and excretions. The total number of stimuli per cow ranged from 37 to 225 ATs (mean ± SD: 1.9 ± 3.3 per day) and 3 to 11 EPs (mean ± SD: 0.1 ± 0.7 per day) throughout the trial. The maximum number of EPs per day was 8 for an individual cow and occurred once on D1. Mean EP/AT decreased by 55% during the first three half-days of grazing and with each paddock change from 0.2 EP/AT in week 1 to 0.03, 0.02, and 0 EP/AT in weeks 4, 6, and 8, respectively. Linear and generalized mixed effects models revealed that milk yield and cortisol, feed intake, body weight, and activity and lying behavior did not significantly differ between VF and EF groups. A higher number of agonistic behaviors were observed in the VF groups when the VF system was activated. However, due to the short observation periods only few contacts were observed in total. Overall, all cows adapted to the VF system without evidence of lasting adverse effects on animal welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Fuchs
- Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
- Agroscope, Research Division Animal Production Systems and Animal Health, Grazing Systems, 1725 Posieux, Switzerland
| | - Joanna Stachowicz
- Johann Heinrich von Thünen-Institute, Institute of Agricultural Technology, 38116 Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Manuel K Schneider
- Agroscope, Research Division Animal Production Systems and Animal Health, Forage Production and Grassland Systems, 8046 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Massimiliano Probo
- Agroscope, Research Division Animal Production Systems and Animal Health, Grazing Systems, 1725 Posieux, Switzerland
| | - Rupert M Bruckmaier
- Veterinary Physiology, Department of Clinical Research and Public Health, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, 3001 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Christina Umstätter
- Johann Heinrich von Thünen-Institute, Institute of Agricultural Technology, 38116 Braunschweig, Germany
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Ataallahi M, Cheon SN, Park GW, Nugrahaeningtyas E, Jeon JH, Park KH. Assessment of Stress Levels in Lactating Cattle: Analyzing Cortisol Residues in Commercial Milk Products in Relation to the Temperature-Humidity Index. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2407. [PMID: 37570216 PMCID: PMC10417798 DOI: 10.3390/ani13152407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic stress in the dairy cattle industry has negative impacts on animal health, productivity, and welfare. It has been confirmed that cortisol transfers to milk and resists the high temperature during milk processing. This study evaluated the relationship between the milk cortisol concentration (MCC) in commercial milk products and the temperature-humidity index (THI) at the time of milk production. Eleven commercially produced pasteurized and sterilized milk products, purchased in Chuncheon, Korea, with production dates ranging from July to October 2021 were analyzed. The MCC was extracted using diethyl ether and analyzed using an enzyme immunoassay. The average THI values based on microclimate data provided by the Korea Meteorological Administration were 77 ± 0.8, 75 ± 1.4, 69 ± 1.4, and 58 ± 1.8, in July, August, September, and October, respectively. The average MCC levels were 211.9 ± 95.1, 173.5 ± 63.8, 109.6 ± 53.2, and 106.7 ± 33.7 pg/mL in July, August, September, and October, respectively. The MCC in July was higher than in August, September, and October (p < 0.05), while it was lower in September and October than in August (p < 0.05). Significant variations in the MCC were observed in commercial milk products across the four production months (p < 0.05), except for two milk products. Overall, monitoring the cortisol residue in commercial dairy milk products can be an alternative indicator of stress in dairy cattle of farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Ataallahi
- Department of Animal Industry Convergence, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; (M.A.); (G.-W.P.); (E.N.)
| | - Si Nae Cheon
- Animal Welfare Research Team, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Agriculture, Wanju 55365, Republic of Korea; (S.N.C.); (J.H.J.)
| | - Geun-Woo Park
- Department of Animal Industry Convergence, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; (M.A.); (G.-W.P.); (E.N.)
| | - Eska Nugrahaeningtyas
- Department of Animal Industry Convergence, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; (M.A.); (G.-W.P.); (E.N.)
| | - Jung Hwan Jeon
- Animal Welfare Research Team, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Agriculture, Wanju 55365, Republic of Korea; (S.N.C.); (J.H.J.)
| | - Kyu-Hyun Park
- Department of Animal Industry Convergence, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; (M.A.); (G.-W.P.); (E.N.)
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Marçal-Pedroza MG, Campos MM, Martins MF, Silva MVB, Paranhos da Costa MJR, Negrão JA, Sant'Anna AC. Is the temperament of crossbred dairy cows related to milk cortisol and oxytocin concentrations, milk yield, and quality? PLoS One 2023; 18:e0286466. [PMID: 37262031 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0286466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Reactive dairy cows are more susceptible to stress, and this may result in negative effects on milk yield and quality. The aims of this study were to investigate the relationships between temperament traits and concentration of milk cortisol and oxytocin, milk yield, milkability, and milk quality in Holstein-Gyr cows. Temperament traits were assessed in 76 Holstein-Gyr cows in the milking parlor (by scoring milking reactivity and recording the numbers of steps and kicks during pre-milking udder preparation and when fitting the milking cluster) and during handling in the corral (by measuring the time to enter in the squeeze chute, ET and flight speed, FS). Milk samples were collected for milk quality (% fat, % protein, % lactose, and somatic cell count, SCC), and milk cortisol and oxytocin. Milk yield, milking time, and average flow were also measured. The calmer cows during milking management (class 'low') produced milk with higher protein (p = 0.028) content and tendencies for lower fat (p = 0.056) and higher lactose (p = 0.055) contents. Regarding the hormones, the most reactive cows (class 'high') in the milking and handling corral produced milk with higher concentrations of cortisol (p<0.001) and oxytocin (p = 0.023). In addition, the temperament of the animals affected some of the productive measures evaluated. Cows with reactive temperament had lower milk flow and longer milking time than the intermediate ones and had higher fat and a tendency for lower protein percentage in milk compared to cows with intermediate temperaments. Calm and intermediate cows in the handling corral produced more milk and presented better milkability parameters, such as a shorter milking time and greater average milk flow. Our results suggest that the cows' behavioral reactivity can be related to the intensity of their response to stress during handling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Guilhermina Marçal-Pedroza
- Nucleus of Studies and Research in Ethology and Animal Welfare (NEBEA), Department of Zoology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Postgraduation Program in Biodiversity and Nature Conservancy, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Marta Fonseca Martins
- Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation, Embrapa Dairy Cattle, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- National Council for Scientific and Technological Development, CNPq Researcher, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Marcos Vinícius Barbosa Silva
- Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation, Embrapa Dairy Cattle, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- National Council for Scientific and Technological Development, CNPq Researcher, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Mateus José Rodrigues Paranhos da Costa
- National Council for Scientific and Technological Development, CNPq Researcher, Brasília, Brazil
- Research Group in Ethology and Animal Ecology, Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - João Alberto Negrão
- National Council for Scientific and Technological Development, CNPq Researcher, Brasília, Brazil
- Basic Science Department, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering (FZEA), São Paulo State University (USP), Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Aline Cristina Sant'Anna
- Nucleus of Studies and Research in Ethology and Animal Welfare (NEBEA), Department of Zoology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- National Council for Scientific and Technological Development, CNPq Researcher, Brasília, Brazil
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Cotticelli A, Verde MT, Matera R, Pividori I, Prandi A, Neglia G, Peric T. Validation of a radioimmunoassay method for cortisol in buffalo milk whey. A preparatory step for future sensor technology. ITALIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/1828051x.2022.2147868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Cotticelli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Produzioni Animali, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Verde
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria elettrica e delle Tecnologie dell’Informazione, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberta Matera
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Produzioni Animali, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Isabella Pividori
- Dipartimento di Scienze agroalimentari ambientali e animali, University of Udine, Via Sondrio, Udine, Italy
| | - Alberto Prandi
- Dipartimento di Scienze agroalimentari ambientali e animali, University of Udine, Via Sondrio, Udine, Italy
| | - Gianluca Neglia
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Produzioni Animali, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Tanja Peric
- Dipartimento di Scienze agroalimentari ambientali e animali, University of Udine, Via Sondrio, Udine, Italy
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Krnjaić S, Cincović M, Djoković R, Belić B, Ježek J, Starič J. The Influence of Energy Balance, Lipolysis and Ketogenesis on Metabolic Adaptation in Cows Milked Twice and Three Times Daily. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12111090. [PMID: 36355173 PMCID: PMC9695407 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12111090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing milk production requires increasing milking frequency (MF) from two times daily (2X) to three (3X) or more. High milk production leads to negative energy balance (NEB) and homeorhesis, characterized by lipolysis, ketogenesis, and endocrinological changes. The relationship among energy balance (EB), lipolysis, and ketogenesis with endocrine and metabolic parameters in blood of cows milked 2X and 3X daily was studied. Holstein Friesian cows milked 2X (n = 45) and 3X (n = 45) were analyzed, with approximately 50% of cows in each group in positive EB (PEB) and 50% in NEB. After determining EB, blood samples were collected from all cows and blood serum was analyzed for non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), glucose (GLU), cholesterol (CHOL), triglycerides (TGC), total bilirubin (TBIL), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), calcium (Ca), inorganic phosphate (P), total protein (TPROT), albumin (ALB), urea, insulin (INS), T3, T4, and cortisol (CORT), and the RQUICKIBHB index of insulin resistance was calculated. Cows milked 3X in NEB represent a special cluster that partially overlaps with cows milked 2X in NEB and has no contact points with cows in PEB. Cows milked 3X had higher levels of NEFA, BHB, AST, GGT, TBIL, and CORT and lower levels of GLU, Ca, INS, and T4. Cows milked 3X in NEB had higher levels of NEFA, BHB, AST, GGT, TBIL, and CORT and lower levels of GLU, CHOL, TGC, TPROT, P, INS, RQUICKIBHB, and T3 compared with cows milked 2X in NEB and cows in PEB. In cows milked 3X, lipolysis and ketogenesis were much more prominent, and EB levels were lower, implying a pronounced shift in homeorhesis. Metabolic and endocrinology parameters were determined mainly by the values of EB, NEFA, and BHB in cows milked 3X in NEB compared with other categories of cows. The results confirm the peculiarity of metabolic adaptation in cows with increased MF, characterized not only by differences in the concentration of metabolites but also in their interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srđan Krnjaić
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Novi Sad, University of Novi Sad, Trg Dositeja Obradovića 8, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Marko Cincović
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Novi Sad, University of Novi Sad, Trg Dositeja Obradovića 8, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Radojica Djoković
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agronomy Čačak, University of Kragujevac, Cara Dušana 34, 32000 Čačak, Serbia
| | - Branislava Belić
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Novi Sad, University of Novi Sad, Trg Dositeja Obradovića 8, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Jožica Ježek
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Gerbičeva 60, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Jože Starič
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Gerbičeva 60, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +386-1-4779217
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Gómez Y, Cockburn M, Hankele AK, Gygax L, Zähner M, Hillmann E, Savary P. Effects of small milking stalls on stress responses in dairy cows during milking in group milking parlors. J Dairy Sci 2021; 105:609-622. [PMID: 34763912 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-20349] [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: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Milking stall dimensions have not been adapted to the increase in cow body size caused by selection for better milking performance over the past decades. Improper milking stall dimensions might limit cow comfort, could lead to stress responses during milking and thus could negatively affect cow welfare. A crossover study was conducted in an experimental milking parlor that was converted from a herringbone (HB) to a side-by-side (SBS) parlor. The milking stall dimensions were modified in length and width and for HB also in depth (perpendicular distance between rump rail and breast rail). The stall dimensions applied during the experiments ranged from much smaller than common in European dairy farming to much larger. Treatments were applied for 2 wk per milking parlor type. In each milking parlor type, a total of 30 cows, kept in 2 groups were observed during milking for behavioral and physiological stress responses and for milking performance. In addition, milk cortisol levels and somatic cell counts were measured at the end of the 2-wk period. Outcome variables were selected based on a principal component analysis and analyzed using mixed effects models reflecting the experimental design. The results showed that the first cow per milking batch required more time (on average >40 s) to enter very small HB stalls than to enter small, large and very large stalls (<30 s). Also, cows yielded more milk per milking in very small and very large HB stalls than in the small and large milking stall dimensions [very small: 15.8 kg; 95% confidence interval (CI), 14.2-17.4 kg); small: 14.3 kg (95% CI, 12.8-15.9 kg); large: 14.6 kg (95% CI, 13.1-16.1 kg); very large: 16.1 kg (95% CI, 14.6-17.6 kg)]. The other behavioral, physiological and milk flow parameters as well as udder health were not affected by stall dimensions. For the SBS parlor, effects of milking stall dimensions were not detectable in any of the parameters. Despite the strong avoidance behavior to enter the milking parlor (measured as latency), no acute stress responses were found during milking. However, the study cannot exclude long-term effects of narrow stall dimensions on stress levels and possibly udder health, which should be investigated in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Gómez
- Agroscope, Competitiveness and System Evaluation, Tänikon 1, 8356 Ettenhausen, Switzerland; ETH Zürich, Department of Environmental System Sciences, Ethology and Animal Welfare Unit, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland; Center for Proper Housing of Poultry and Rabbits (ZTHZ), Division of Animal Welfare, VPH Institute, University of Bern, Burgerweg 22, 3052 Zollikofen, Switzerland.
| | - M Cockburn
- Agroscope, Competitiveness and System Evaluation, Tänikon 1, 8356 Ettenhausen, Switzerland
| | - A-K Hankele
- ETH Zürich, Department of Environmental System Sciences, Animal Physiology, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - L Gygax
- Centre for Proper Housing of Ruminants and Pigs (ZTHT), Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office, Tänikon 1, 8356 Ettenhausen, Switzerland; Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Albrecht Daniel Thaer Institute of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Animal Husbandry & Ethology, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - M Zähner
- Agroscope, Competitiveness and System Evaluation, Tänikon 1, 8356 Ettenhausen, Switzerland; Agroscope, Animal Production Systems and Animal Health, Tänikon 1, 8356 Ettenhausen, Switzerland
| | - E Hillmann
- ETH Zürich, Department of Environmental System Sciences, Ethology and Animal Welfare Unit, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland; Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Albrecht Daniel Thaer Institute of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Animal Husbandry & Ethology, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - P Savary
- Agroscope, Competitiveness and System Evaluation, Tänikon 1, 8356 Ettenhausen, Switzerland; Centre for Proper Housing of Ruminants and Pigs (ZTHT), Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office, Tänikon 1, 8356 Ettenhausen, Switzerland
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Filacorda S, Comin A, Franchini M, Frangini L, Pesaro S, Pezzin EN, Prandi A. Cortisol in Hair: Do Habitat Fragmentation and Competition with Golden Jackal (Canis aureus) Measurably Affect the Long-Term Physiological Response in European Wildcat (Felis silvestris)? ANN ZOOL FENN 2021. [DOI: 10.5735/086.059.0101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Filacorda
- Department of Agri-Food, Environmental and Animal Sciences, University of Udine, Via Sondrio 2/A, IT-33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Antonella Comin
- Department of Agri-Food, Environmental and Animal Sciences, University of Udine, Via Sondrio 2/A, IT-33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Marcello Franchini
- Department of Agri-Food, Environmental and Animal Sciences, University of Udine, Via Sondrio 2/A, IT-33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Frangini
- Department of Agri-Food, Environmental and Animal Sciences, University of Udine, Via Sondrio 2/A, IT-33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Stefano Pesaro
- Department of Agri-Food, Environmental and Animal Sciences, University of Udine, Via Sondrio 2/A, IT-33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Eva Nilanthi Pezzin
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, IT-35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Alberto Prandi
- Department of Agri-Food, Environmental and Animal Sciences, University of Udine, Via Sondrio 2/A, IT-33100 Udine, Italy
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Tschoner T. Methods for Pain Assessment in Calves and Their Use for the Evaluation of Pain during Different Procedures-A Review. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:1235. [PMID: 33922942 PMCID: PMC8146443 DOI: 10.3390/ani11051235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The evaluation and assessment of the level of pain calves are experiencing is important, as the experience of pain (e.g., due to routine husbandry procedures) severely affects the welfare of calves. Studies about the recognition of pain in calves, and especially pain management during and after common procedures, such as castration, dehorning, and disbudding, have been published. This narrative review discusses and summarizes the existing literature about methods for pain assessment in calves. First, it deals with the definition of pain and the challenges associated with the recognition of pain in calves. Then it proceeds to outline the different options and methods for subjective and objective pain assessment in calves, as described in the literature. Research data show that there are several tools suitable for the assessment of pain in calves, at least for research purposes. Finally, it concludes that for research purposes, various variables for the assessment of pain in calves are used in combination. However, there is no variable which can be used solely for the exclusive assessment of pain in calves. Also, further research is needed to describe biomarkers or variables which are easily accessible in the field practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Tschoner
- Clinic for Ruminants with Ambulatory and Herd Health Services, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich, Sonnenstrasse 16, 85764 Oberschleissheim, Germany
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Jerram LJ, Van Winden S, Fowkes RC. Minimally Invasive Markers of Stress and Production Parameters in Dairy Cows before and after the Installation of a Voluntary Milking System. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10040589. [PMID: 32244408 PMCID: PMC7222793 DOI: 10.3390/ani10040589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Automatic milking systems (AMS) are a low-labour alternative to conventional parlours, with previous studies demonstrating that cows vary in their ability to cope with the change to AMS. Cortisol expression can be combined with other measures to assess stress: saliva and hair have the advantage of requiring minimally invasive sampling. No work has investigated the long-term impact of introduction of AMS. The aims of the study were to assess short-term and chronic stress associated with a change in milking system by measuring salivary and hair cortisol levels and to assess the impact on health and production parameters. Cows from one farm changing their milking system were recruited to the study and sampled for saliva (n = 10) and hair (n = 12) before and after installation. Cortisol levels were measured using a salivary cortisol enzyme immunoassay kit. Body condition, lameness and milk parameters of the whole herd were regularly assessed. Salivary cortisol showed no diurnal pattern but was affected by lameness and gestation. Non-lame cows showed a reduction in salivary cortisol after AMS introduction (p < 0.001). Hair cortisol levels increased after AMS, but it was unclear if this change was seasonal. Milk yield increased by 13% and somatic cell count reduced by 28%. Body condition score was consistently good, but lameness remained high throughout the study. Production values alone do not represent high welfare. The high lameness and associated cortisol levels suggest that cow stress requires consideration when changing milking systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy J. Jerram
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-(0)-7905773672
| | - Steven Van Winden
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK;
| | - Robert C. Fowkes
- Endocrine Signaling Group, Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Royal College Street, London NW1 0TU, UK;
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Wildridge AM, Thomson PC, Garcia SC, Jongman EC, Kerrisk KL. Transitioning from conventional to automatic milking: Effects on the human-animal relationship. J Dairy Sci 2019; 103:1608-1619. [PMID: 31759591 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2019-16658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
There are several differences in how an automatic milking system (AMS; milking equipment not requiring human intervention for the milk harvesting process) and a conventional milking system (CMS) are managed, where the effect of milking system type on the human-animal relationship has remained unexplored. A survey and observations from 5 Australian dairy farms transitioning from CMS to AMS were taken twice, 1 yr apart, before and after transition to an AMS. The farmers completed a survey and had all farmer-cow interactions documented for 3 d. In addition, a random selection of lactating cows had their avoidance distance (the distance at which they move away from an approaching person) recorded and were involved in a handling test during both visits. The survey findings indicated that basic management practices remained mostly unchanged, whereas records of farmer-cow interactions showed 4 out of 5 farms had less interaction time after AMS transition. This was caused by a reduction in milk harvesting tasks, where a small portion of this time was re-invested into time that farmers spent around the cows without directly interacting with them and into tasks involving close cow contact. Overall, an approximate 27% decline was observed in avoidance distances of cows from an AMS compared with the CMS. A handling test was performed on 4 of the 5 farms before and after AMS transition, where the farmers were asked to move a selection of cows through a gate one at a time. In the AMS more vocal effort was required to move the cows, and the cows responded with a reduced occurrence of running past the farmer and reduced occurrence of slipping in an attempt to avoid the farmers compared with the CMS. Overall, results show that farmers spent less time interacting with cows in the AMS, and that cows were less fearful around people as seen by reduced avoidance distances and reduced stress responses to close handling.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Wildridge
- Dairy Science Group, School of Life and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Camden, NSW 2570, Australia.
| | - P C Thomson
- Dairy Science Group, School of Life and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Camden, NSW 2570, Australia
| | - S C Garcia
- Dairy Science Group, School of Life and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Camden, NSW 2570, Australia
| | - E C Jongman
- Animal Welfare Science Centre, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic 3010, Australia
| | - K L Kerrisk
- Dairy Science Group, School of Life and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Camden, NSW 2570, Australia
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Franchini M, Prandi A, Filacorda S, Pezzin EN, Fanin Y, Comin A. Cortisol in hair: a comparison between wild and feral cats in the north-eastern Alps. EUR J WILDLIFE RES 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s10344-019-1330-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Hogenboom J, Pellegrino L, Sandrucci A, Rosi V, D'Incecco P. Invited review: Hygienic quality, composition, and technological performance of raw milk obtained by robotic milking of cows. J Dairy Sci 2019; 102:7640-7654. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2018-16013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 04/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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Rodenburg J. Robotic milking: Technology, farm design, and effects on work flow. J Dairy Sci 2017; 100:7729-7738. [PMID: 28711263 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2016-11715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2016] [Accepted: 05/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Robotic milking reduces labor demands on dairy farms of all sizes and offers a more flexible lifestyle for farm families milking up to 250 cows. Because milking is voluntary, barn layouts that encourage low-stress access by providing adequate open space near the milking stations and escape routes for waiting cows improve milking frequency and reduce fetching. Because lame cows attend less often, preventing lameness with comfortable stalls, clean alley floors, and effective foot bathing warrants special emphasis in robotic dairies. Variable milking intervals create challenges for foot bathing, sorting and handling, and dealing with special-needs cows. Appropriate cow routing and separation options at the milking stations are needed to address these challenges and ensure that the expected labor savings are realized. Protocols and layout and gating should make it possible for a herd worker to complete all handling tasks alone. Free traffic and guided traffic systems yield similar results when excellent management is applied or when the number of cows is well below capacity. In less ideal circumstances, guided traffic and the use of commitment pens result in longer standing times and stress, particularly for lower ranking cows, and poor management with free traffic results in more labor for fetching.
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Caslini C, Comin A, Peric T, Prandi A, Pedrotti L, Mattiello S. Use of hair cortisol analysis for comparing population status in wild red deer (Cervus elaphus) living in areas with different characteristics. EUR J WILDLIFE RES 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s10344-016-1049-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Goyon A, Cai JZ, Kraehenbuehl K, Hartmann C, Shao B, Mottier P. Determination of steroid hormones in bovine milk by LC-MS/MS and their levels in Swiss Holstein cow milk. Food Addit Contam Part A Chem Anal Control Expo Risk Assess 2016; 33:804-16. [DOI: 10.1080/19440049.2016.1175186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Goyon
- Department of Analytical Sciences, Nestlé Research Centre, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Karin Kraehenbuehl
- Department of Analytical Sciences, Nestlé Research Centre, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Bing Shao
- Central Laboratory, Beijing Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, Beijing, China
| | - Pascal Mottier
- Department of Analytical Sciences, Nestlé Research Centre, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Sgorlon S, Fanzago M, Sandri M, Gaspardo B, Stefanon B. Association of Index of Welfare and Metabolism with the Genetic Merit of Holstein and Simmental Cows After the Peak of Lactation. ITALIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2016. [DOI: 10.4081/ijas.2015.3841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Marta Fanzago
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Ambientali, University of Udine, Italy
| | - Misa Sandri
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Ambientali, University of Udine, Italy
| | - Brigitta Gaspardo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Ambientali, University of Udine, Italy
| | - Bruno Stefanon
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Ambientali, University of Udine, Italy
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Sgorlon S, Fanzago M, Guiatti D, Gabai G, Stradaioli G, Stefanon B. Factors affecting milk cortisol in mid lactating dairy cows. BMC Vet Res 2015. [PMID: 26459289 DOI: 10.1186/s12917–015–0572–9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whether the measurement of cortisol in dairy cows can be used as a biomarker of adverse environmental or pathophysiological conditions is still under of scientific debate. In these situations, several systems mainly the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, the autonomic nervous system, and the immune system are recruited to reestablish homeostasis. A first aim of the present study was to compare milk and blood cortisol concentrations and to consider its variability in milk in relation to farm, milk yield and days in milk. A second study investigates the effects of breed, class of somatic cell count (SCC) and farm on milk cortisol levels in a larger number of cows and farms, with the aim to validate the results obtained in the pilot study. METHODS For study 1, 135 cows were sampled from 2 Italian Simmental and 2 Italian Holstein commercial farms, whilst in the second study, 542 cows were sampled from 6 commercial farms of Italian Simmental and 499 cows from 4 commercial farms of Italian Holstein. RESULTS In study 1, the values of cortisol content in milk were significantly higher in Holstein than Simmental cows. Significant differences between farms were observed for milk and plasma cortisol concentrations. Cortisol content in milk was not correlated to plasma content in study 1 and the mean milk to plasma cortisol ratio was about 1:30. In study 2, for Holstein cows, significantly higher values of milk cortisol in comparison to Simmental cows was reported. A significant effect of class of SCC was observed, cows belonging to class 3 (SCC higher than 400.000/ml) showed the highest mean values of milk cortisol. The farm effect was significant also in the study 2, confirming the results obtained in the first study. CONCLUSIONS Milk can be considered a preferential site of sampling in dairy cows to point out short term stimulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Further studies are needed to investigate the physiological basis of the relationship between milk cortisol content and breed, milk yield and SCC to ascertain the relevance of milk cortisol to monitor the healthy status of mammary gland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandy Sgorlon
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Ambientali, Università di Udine, via delle Scienze 208, 33100, Udine, Italy.
| | - Marta Fanzago
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Ambientali, Università di Udine, via delle Scienze 208, 33100, Udine, Italy.
| | - Denis Guiatti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Ambientali, Università di Udine, via delle Scienze 208, 33100, Udine, Italy.
| | - Gianfranco Gabai
- Dipartimento di Biomedicina Comparata ed alimentazione, Università di Padova, viale dell'Università 16, 35020, Legnaro, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Stradaioli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Ambientali, Università di Udine, via delle Scienze 208, 33100, Udine, Italy.
| | - Bruno Stefanon
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Ambientali, Università di Udine, via delle Scienze 208, 33100, Udine, Italy.
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Factors affecting milk cortisol in mid lactating dairy cows. BMC Vet Res 2015; 11:259. [PMID: 26459289 PMCID: PMC4603817 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-015-0572-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2015] [Accepted: 10/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Whether the measurement of cortisol in dairy cows can be used as a biomarker of adverse environmental or pathophysiological conditions is still under of scientific debate. In these situations, several systems mainly the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, the autonomic nervous system, and the immune system are recruited to reestablish homeostasis. A first aim of the present study was to compare milk and blood cortisol concentrations and to consider its variability in milk in relation to farm, milk yield and days in milk. A second study investigates the effects of breed, class of somatic cell count (SCC) and farm on milk cortisol levels in a larger number of cows and farms, with the aim to validate the results obtained in the pilot study. Methods For study 1, 135 cows were sampled from 2 Italian Simmental and 2 Italian Holstein commercial farms, whilst in the second study, 542 cows were sampled from 6 commercial farms of Italian Simmental and 499 cows from 4 commercial farms of Italian Holstein. Results In study 1, the values of cortisol content in milk were significantly higher in Holstein than Simmental cows. Significant differences between farms were observed for milk and plasma cortisol concentrations. Cortisol content in milk was not correlated to plasma content in study 1 and the mean milk to plasma cortisol ratio was about 1:30. In study 2, for Holstein cows, significantly higher values of milk cortisol in comparison to Simmental cows was reported. A significant effect of class of SCC was observed, cows belonging to class 3 (SCC higher than 400.000/ml) showed the highest mean values of milk cortisol. The farm effect was significant also in the study 2, confirming the results obtained in the first study. Conclusions Milk can be considered a preferential site of sampling in dairy cows to point out short term stimulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Further studies are needed to investigate the physiological basis of the relationship between milk cortisol content and breed, milk yield and SCC to ascertain the relevance of milk cortisol to monitor the healthy status of mammary gland.
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Fazio E, Medica P, Cravana C, Ferlazzo A. Release of β-endorphin, adrenocorticotropic hormone and cortisol in response to machine milking of dairy cows. Vet World 2015; 8:284-9. [PMID: 27047086 PMCID: PMC4774832 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2015.284-289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2014] [Revised: 01/17/2015] [Accepted: 01/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: The present study was undertaken with the objective to obtain insight into the dynamics of the release of β-endorphin, adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol in response to machine milking in dairy cows. Materials and Methods: A total of 10 healthy multiparous lactating Italian Friesian dairy cows were used in the study. Animals were at the 4th-5th month of pregnancy and were submitted to machine milking 2 times daily. Blood samples were collected in the morning: In baseline conditions, immediately before milking and after milking; and in the early afternoon: In baseline conditions, before milking and after milking, for 2 consecutive days. Endocrine variables were measured in duplicate, using a commercial radioimmunoassay for circulating β-endorphin and ACTH concentrations and a competitive enzyme-linked immunoassay for cortisol concentration. Results: Data obtained showed a similar biphasic cortisol secretion of lactating dairy cows, with a significant increase of cortisol concentration after morning machine milking, at both the 1st and the 2nd day (p<0.05), and a decrease after afternoon machine milking at the 2nd day (p<0.01). One-way RM ANOVA showed significant effects of the machine milking on the cortisol changes, at both morning (f=22.96; p<0.001) and afternoon (f=15.10; p<0.01) milking, respectively. Two-way RM ANOVA showed a significant interaction between cortisol changes at the 1st and the 2nd day (f=7.94; p<0.0002), and between the sampling times (f=6.09; p<0.001). Conversely, no significant effects of the machine milking were observed on β-endorphin and ACTH changes, but only a moderate positive correlation (r=0.94; p<0.06) after milking stimuli. Conclusions: A wide range of cortisol concentrations reported in this study showed the complex dynamic patterns of the homeostatic mechanisms involved during machine milking in dairy cows, suggesting that β-endorphin and ACTH were not the main factors that caused the adrenocortical response to milking stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Fazio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - P Medica
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - C Cravana
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - A Ferlazzo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy
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Caria M, Tangorra F, Leonardi S, Bronzo V, Murgia L, Pazzona A. Evaluation of the performance of the first automatic milking system for buffaloes. J Dairy Sci 2014; 97:1491-8. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2013-7385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2013] [Accepted: 11/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Peric T, Comin A, Corazzin M, Montillo M, Cappa A, Campanile G, Prandi A. Short communication: Hair cortisol concentrations in Holstein-Friesian and crossbreed F1 heifers. J Dairy Sci 2013; 96:3023-7. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2012-6151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2012] [Accepted: 01/25/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Díaz J, Alejandro M, Romero G, Moya F, Peris C. Variation in milk cortisol during lactation in Murciano-Granadina goats. J Dairy Sci 2013; 96:897-905. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2012-5614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2012] [Accepted: 10/07/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Comin A, Zufferli V, Peric T, Canavese F, Barbetta D, Prandi A. Hair cortisol levels determined at different body sites in the New Zealand White rabbit. WORLD RABBIT SCIENCE 2012. [DOI: 10.4995/wrs.2012.1106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
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Cook NJ. Review: Minimally invasive sampling media and the measurement of corticosteroids as biomarkers of stress in animals. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2012. [DOI: 10.4141/cjas2012-045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Cook, N. J. 2012. Review: Minimally invasive sampling media and the measurement of corticosteroids as biomarkers of stress in animals. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 92: 227–259. The measurement of corticosteroid hormones is commonly used as a biomarker of an animal's response to stress. The difficulties in obtaining blood samples and the recognition of the stressor effect of blood sampling are primary drivers for the use of minimally invasive sample media. In mammals these include saliva, feces, urine, hair, and milk. In birds, samples include excreta, feathers, egg yolk and albumin. In fish, corticosteroids have been measured in excreta and swim-water. Each of these sample media incorporate corticosteroids in accordance with the processes by which they are formed, and this in turn dictates the periods of adrenocortical activity that each sample type represents. Cortisol in saliva represents a time-frame of minutes, whereas the production of feces may be hours to days depending on the species. The longest time-integrations are for hair and feathers which could be over a period of many weeks. The sample media also determines the structural changes that may occur via processes of conjugation to glucuronides and sulfides, metabolic conversion via enzymatic action, and bacterial breakdown. Structural changes determine the optimum methodologies used to measure corticosteroid hormones. In most sample media, measurement of a specific corticosteroid is a requirement depending on the species, e.g., cortisol in most mammals, or corticosterone in birds. However, in samples involving products of excretion, methodologies that measure a broad range of structurally related compounds are probably optimal. The utility of minimally invasive sample media as biomarkers of stress responses depends on the degree to which the corticosteroid content of the sample represents adrenocortical activity. Commonly, this involves comparisons between corticosteroid concentrations in blood plasma with concentrations in the alternative sample media. This review focuses on the methodological and biological validation of corticosteroid measurements in minimally invasive samples as biomarkers of adrenocortical responses to stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nigel J. Cook
- Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development, Livestock Welfare Unit, Lacombe Research Centre, 6000 C&E Trail, Alberta, Canada, T4L 1W1
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Jacobs J, Siegford J. Invited review: The impact of automatic milking systems on dairy cow management, behavior, health, and welfare. J Dairy Sci 2012; 95:2227-47. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2011-4943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2011] [Accepted: 01/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Xu L, Zhang L, Zhang Y, Sheng Q, Zhao A. Qualitative and quantitative comparison of hormone contents between bovine and human colostrums. Int Dairy J 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.idairyj.2010.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Time budgets and adrenocortical activity of cows milked in a robot or a milking parlour: interrelationships and influence of social rank. Anim Welf 2009. [DOI: 10.1017/s0962728600000087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
AbstractAdrenocortical activity and time budgets in a robotic milking system in two variants of cow traffic (partially forced, free) were compared with a conventional milking system, focusing on the relationships between adrenocortical activity, time budgets, and social rank of the cows. Both groups were housed in identical conditions and consisted of 30 cows each. Within each experiment, direct observations of social behaviour and 24-hour video recordings were conducted during six two-day blocks. We calculated the dominance value and the time budget (‘lying’, ‘feeding’, ‘other activity’) of each cow. Faeces from each cow were collected to determine the concentration of cortisol metabolites (CCM) as an indicator of baseline adrenocortical activity and possible chronic stress. Analysis of CCM and time budgets did not indicate any adverse effects of the robotic milking system, with one exception: under partially-forced cow traffic, cows of low social rank had longer waiting times in front of the robot. Considering the fact that the number of cows milked by the robot was less than half of that recommended by the manufacturers, our results do not exclude the possibility that a higher stocking rate may lead to further adverse effects.
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Svennersten-Sjaunja KM, Pettersson G. Pros and cons of automatic milking in Europe1. J Anim Sci 2008; 86:37-46. [DOI: 10.2527/jas.2007-0527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Restlessness behaviour, heart rate and heart-rate variability of dairy cows milked in two types of automatic milking systems and auto-tandem milking parlours. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2007.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Bruckmaier RM, Wellnitz O. Induction of milk ejection and milk removal in different production systems. J Anim Sci 2007; 86:15-20. [PMID: 17709779 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2007-0335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Milk ejection is important during milking or suckling to obtain the alveolar milk fraction, which can represent more than 80% of the milk stored in the udder of dairy cows. In response to tactile teat stimulation, either manually or by the milking machine, milk ejection is induced by the release of oxytocin and resultant myoepithelial contraction. The time from the start of tactile stimulation until the occurrence of milk ejection spans 40 s to > 2 min and increases with a decreasing degree of udder filling. Therefore, cows need a longer prestimulation in the late stages of lactation or if the milking is performed shortly after the previous milking, whereas in full udders prestimulation is less important. Milk ejection is disturbed under several conditions, such as during milking in unfamiliar surroundings (i.e., a novel milking environment) or for several weeks immediately after parturition in primiparous cows. Disturbed milk ejection is due to a reduction of or absence of oxytocin release from the pituitary. The severity of disturbed milk ejection and the coping capacity toward a novel milking environment is related to cortisol release in response to ACTH (i.e., adrenal cortex activity). Therefore, susceptibility of individual cows to the inhibition of oxytocin release and milk ejection can be predicted by an ACTH challenge test. Comfortable surroundings, such as feeding in and lighting of the milking parlor, can increase the secretion of oxytocin. Overcoming the lack of oxytocin release by injection of exogenous oxytocin for an extended time results in a reduction of the mammary response to endogenous oxytocin. In different production systems, it has to be verified that udder stimulation is sufficient to prevent disturbed milk ejection. Different brands of automatic milking systems induce a sufficient prestimulation of the udder, even if a few minutes are needed for a successful onset of the teat clusters. Specific breeds used for less intense milk production may need the presence of their calves for sufficient oxytocin release during milking. In conclusion, in all milk production systems, the maximal possible reduction of stress has to be targeted and proper udder prestimulation must be performed for an optimal milking of the cow by the farmer.
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Affiliation(s)
- R M Bruckmaier
- Veterinary Physiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Switzerland.
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