147 results on '"Marchi, M."'
Search Results
2. Udder health-related traits in cow milk: phenotypic variability and effect on milk yield and composition
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Magro, S., Costa, A., Santinello, M., Penasa, M., and De Marchi, M.
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- 2023
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3. Effectiveness of energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence for the quantification of mineral elements in skim milk and whey powders.
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Pozza, M., De Marchi, M., Visentin, E., and Niero, G.
- Abstract
The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. Milk and whey are subjected to quick deterioration due to bacterial growth. Turning them into powder allows for extended shelf life, easier storage, and more effective transport. Monitoring mineral elements in dairy powders is crucial for both technological and nutritional implications. Current analysis of minerals in food matrixes is time consuming and requires high costs and labor. Energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (ED-XRF) may represent a potential alternative technique to rapidly determine mineral content of food matrixes. The present study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of the ED-XRF technique for the prediction of Na, Mg, P, S, K, Ca, Cu, and Zn in skim milk and whey powders. Reference analysis for mineral concentration in dairy powders was inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry. The accuracy of ED-XRF for the prediction of mineral elements was assessed on all available samples (global calibration set; n = 23) and after splitting the whole data into a training set (n = 16) and a testing set (n = 7), comprising 70% and 30% of the available samples, respectively. The accuracy of prediction was moderate to low for Na and Mg, whereas robust predictions were obtained for P, S, K, Ca, Cu, and Zn, with coefficients of determination in global calibration from 0.88 to 0.99, and ratios performance to deviation in testing from 2.14 to 24.74. Results suggest that ED-XRF can be considered for accurate prediction of the main mineral elements in dairy powders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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4. Minerals and essential amino acids of bovine colostrum: Phenotypic variability and predictive ability of mid- and near-infrared spectroscopy.
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Goi, A., De Marchi, M., and Costa, A.
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ESSENTIAL amino acids , *NEAR infrared spectroscopy , *PHENOTYPIC plasticity , *COLOSTRUM , *MINERALS , *PLANT nutrition - Abstract
Colostrum quality and volume are fundamental for calves because it is the primary supplier of antibodies and the first source of energy, carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, minerals, and vitamins for the newborn. Assessing the detailed composition (i.e., AA and mineral content) of bovine colostrum (BC) on-line and at a reasonable cost would help dairy stakeholders such as farmers or veterinarians for precision feeding purposes and industries producing preparations containing BC such as foodstuff, supplements, and medicaments. In the present study we evaluated mid- (MIRS) and near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) prediction ability for AA and mineral composition of individual BC. Second, we the investigated the major factors affecting the phenotypic variability of such traits also evaluating the correlations with the Ig concentration. Results demonstrated that MIRS and NIRS were able to provide sufficiently accurate predictions for all the AA. The coefficient of determination in external validation (R2 V) fell, in fact, within the range of 0.70 to 0.86, with the exception of Ile, His, and Met. Only some minerals reached a sufficient accuracy (i.e., Ca, P, S, and Mg; R2 V ≥ 0.66) using MIRS, and also S (R2 V = 0.87) using NIRS. Phenotypically, both parity and calving season affected the variability of these BC composition traits. Heifers' colostrum was the one with the greatest concentration of Ca and P, the 2 most abundant minerals. These minerals were however very low in cows calving in summer compared with the rest of the year. The pattern of AA across parities and calving season was not linear, likely because their variability was scarcely (or not) affected by these effects. Finally, samples characterized by high IgG concentration were those presenting on average greater concentration of AA. Findings suggest that infrared spectroscopy has the potential to be used to predict certain AA and minerals, outlining the possibility of implementing on-site analyses for the evaluation of the broad-sense BC quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2023
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5. Influence of the spray pyrolysis seeding and growth parameters on the structure and optical properties of ZnO nanorod arrays
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Rodríguez, Juan, Feuillet, Guy, Donatini, Fabrice, Onna, Diego, Sanchez, Luis, Candal, Roberto, Marchi, M. Claudia, Bilmes, Sara A., and Chandezon, Frédéric
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- 2015
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6. The role of seeding in the morphology and wettability of ZnO nanorods films on different substrates
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Rodríguez, Juan, Onna, Diego, Sánchez, Luis, Marchi, M. Claudia, Candal, Roberto, Ponce, Silvia, and Bilmes, Sara A.
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- 2013
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7. Adjusting for age can lead to biased genetic evaluation for body weight in cattle
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Bittante, G., Cecchinato, A., Dal Zotto, R., De Marchi, M., and Penasa, M.
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- 2011
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8. Luminescent Eu(III) hybrid sensors for in situ copper detection
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Barja, Beatriz C., Bari, Sara E., Marchi, M. Claudia, Iglesias, Fabricio L., and Bernardi, Milagros
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- 2011
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9. Heterosis effects in a black and white dairy cattle population under different production environments
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Penasa, M., De Marchi, M., Zotto, R. Dal, de Jong, G., Bittante, G., and Cassandro, M.
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- 2010
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10. Synthesis of carbon nanotubes by CVD: Effect of acetylene pressure on nanotubes characteristics
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Escobar, Mariano, Moreno, M. Sergio, Candal, Roberto J., Marchi, M. Claudia, Caso, Alvaro, Polosecki, Pablo I., Rubiolo, Gerardo H., and Goyanes, Silvia
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- 2007
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11. Invited review: β -hydroxybutyrate concentration in blood and milk and its associations with cow performance.
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Benedet, A., Manuelian, C. L., Zidi, A., Penasa, M., and De Marchi, M.
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Hyperketonemia (HYK) is one of the most frequent and costly metabolic disorders in high-producing dairy cows and its diagnosis is based on β -hydroxybutyrate (BHB) concentration in blood. In the last 10 years, the number of papers that have dealt with the impact of elevated BHB levels in dairy cattle has increased. Therefore, this paper reviewed the recent literature on BHB concentration in blood and milk, and its relationships with dairy cow health and performance, and farm profitability. Most studies applied the threshold of 1.2 mmol/l of BHB concentration in blood to indicate HYK; several authors considered BHB concentrations between 1.2 and 2.9 mmol/l as subclinical ketosis, and values ⩾3.0 mmol/l as clinical ketosis. Results on HYK frequency (prevalence and incidence) and cow performance varied according to parity and days in milk, being greater in multiparous than in primiparous cows, and in the first 2 weeks of lactation than in later stages. Hyperketonemia has been associated with greater milk fat content, fat-to-protein ratio and energy-corrected milk, and lower protein and urea nitrogen in milk. The relationships with milk yield and somatic cell count are still controversial. In general, HYK impairs health of dairy cows by increasing the risk of the onset of other early lactation diseases, and it negatively affects reproductive performance. The economic cost of HYK is mainly due to impaired reproductive performance and milk loss. From a genetic point of view, results from the literature suggested the feasibility of selecting cows with low susceptibility to HYK. The present review highlights that milk is the most promising matrix to identify HYK, because it is easy to sample and allows a complete screening of the herd through BHB concentration predicted using mid-IR spectroscopy during routine milk recording. Further research is needed to validate accurate and convenient methods to discriminate between cows in risk of HYK and healthy animals in field conditions and to support farmers to achieve an early detection and minimise the economic losses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2019
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12. Heritability and repeatability of milk lactose and its relationships with traditional milk traits, somatic cell score and freezing point in Holstein cows.
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Costa, A., Lopez-Villalobos, N., Visentin, G., De Marchi, M., Cassandro, M., and Penasa, M.
- Abstract
Lactose percentage (LP) in milk is currently determined in most herd-testing schemes, and globally, it is usually routinely recorded in the framework of the official milk recording procedures. However, few studies have investigated the phenotypic and genetic variability of this component. Data used in the present paper consisted of 59 811 test-day records from 4355 Holstein cows in 266 herds. Heritabilities of LP and lactose yield (LY) were estimated through single-trait repeatability animal models, whereas genetic and phenotypic correlations of LP and LY with milk composition and production traits, somatic cell score and milk freezing point were estimated using bivariate models. Fixed effects included in the analyses were herd-test-date, season of calving, parity, stage of lactation and the interaction between parity and stage of lactation. Random effects were animal additive genetic, within and across lactation permanent environment and the residual. Lactation curves of LP and LY increased from parturition to the peak of lactation and decreased thereafter, mirroring the typical curve of milk yield. Lactose percentage was greater in first- than later-parity cows. Heritabilities of LP and LY were 0.43±0.03 and 0.14±0.02, respectively, and LP and protein percentage were the most repeatable traits. Genetic correlations (r
a ) of LP with somatic cell score, LY and milk freezing point were −0.22±0.08, 0.28±0.08 and −0.46±0.05, respectively. Genetic relationships of LY with milk yield (ra =0.97±0.00), fat percentage (ra =−0.71±0.06), protein percentage (ra =−0.57±0.06) and protein yield (ra =0.64±0.06) were moderate to strong. Results suggest that milk LP could be considered in breeding strategies to accelerate the gain of correlated low heritable traits. Further research is needed to evaluate the feasibility of including LP in the selection index of Italian Holstein population to address country-specific needs and market demands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]- Published
- 2019
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13. Genetic (co)variances between milk mineral concentration and chemical composition in lactating Holstein-Friesian dairy cows.
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Visentin, G., Niero, G., Berry, D. P., Costa, A., Cassandro, M., De Marchi, M., and Penasa, M.
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Milk mineral concentration is important from both the perspective of processing milk into dairy products and its nutritive value for human consumption. Precise estimates of genetic parameters for milk mineral concentration are lacking because of the considerable resources required to collect vast phenotypes quantities. The milk concentration of calcium (Ca), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), sodium (Na) and phosphorus (P) in the present study was quantified from mid-IR spectroscopy on 12 223 test-day records from 1717 Holstein-Friesian cows. (Co)variance components were estimated using random regressions to model both the additive genetic and within-lactation permanent environmental variances of each trait. The coefficient of genetic variation averaged across days-in-milk (DIM) was 6.93%, 3.46%, 6.55%, 5.20% and 6.68% for Ca, K, Mg, Na and P concentration, respectively; heritability estimates varied across lactation from 0.31±0.05 (5 DIM) to 0.67±0.04 (181 DIM) for Ca, from 0.18±0.03 (60 DIM) to 0.24±0.05 (305 DIM) for K, from 0.08±0.03 (15 DIM) to 0.37±0.03 (223 DIM) for Mg, from 0.16±0.03 (30 DIM) to 0.37±0.04 (305 DIM) for Na and from 0.21±0.04 (12 DIM) to 0.57±0.04 (211 DIM) for P. Genetic correlations within the same trait across different DIM were almost unity between adjacent DIM but weakened as the time interval between pairwise compared DIM lengthened; genetic correlations were weaker than 0.80 only when comparing both peripheries of the lactation. The analysis of the geometry of the additive genetic covariance matrix revealed that almost 90% of the additive genetic variation was accounted by the intercept term of the covariance functions for each trait. Milk protein concentration and mineral concentration were, in general, positively genetically correlated with each other across DIM, whereas milk fat concentration was positively genetically correlated throughout the entire lactation with Ca, K and Mg; the genetic correlation with fat concentration changed from negative to positive with Na and P at 243 DIM and 50 DIM, respectively. Genetic correlations between somatic cell score and Na ranged from 0.38±0.21 (5 DIM) to 0.79±0.18 (305 DIM). Exploitable genetic variation existed for all milk minerals, although many national breeding objectives are probably contributing to an indirect positive response to selection in milk mineral concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2019
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14. Invited review: Use of infrared technologies for the assessment of dairy products-Applications and perspectives.
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De Marchi, M., Penasa, M., Zidi, A., and Manuelian, C.L.
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NEAR infrared spectroscopy , *DRIED milk , *DAIRY products industry , *FATTY acid synthesis , *DIETARY supplements - Abstract
Dairy products are important sources of nutrients for human health and in recent years their consumption has increased worldwide. Therefore, the food industry is interested in applying analytical technologies that are more rapid and cost-effective than traditional laboratory analyses. Infrared spectroscopy accomplishes both criteria, making real-time determination feasible. However, it is crucial to ensure that prediction models are accurate before their implementation in the dairy industry. In the last 5 yr, several papers have investigated the feasibility of mid- and near-infrared spectroscopy to determine chemical composition and authenticity of dairy products. Most studies have dealt with cheese, and few with yogurt, butter, and milk powder. Also, the use of near-infrared (in reflectance or transmittance mode) has been more prevalent than mid-infrared spectroscopy. This review summarizes recent studies on infrared spectroscopy in dairy products focusing on difficult to determine chemical components such as fatty acids, minerals, and volatile compounds, as well as sensory attributes and ripening time. Promising equations have been developed despite the low concentration or the absence of specific absorption bands (or both) for these compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2018
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15. Processing characteristics of dairy cow milk are moderately heritable.
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De Marchi, M., Penasa, M., Visentin, G., McDermott, A., McParland, S., Berry, D. P., and Fenelon, M. A.
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MILK quality , *COAGULATION (Food science) , *DAIRY cattle genetics , *INFRARED spectroscopy , *REGRESSION analysis - Abstract
Milk processing attributes represent a group of milk quality traits that are important to the dairy industry to inform product portfolio. However, because of the resources required to routinely measure such quality traits, precise genetic parameter estimates from a large population of animals are lacking for these traits. Milk processing characteristics considered in the present study--rennet coagulation time, curd-firming time, curd firmness at 30 and 60 min after rennet addition, heat coagulation time, casein micelle size, and milk pH--were all estimated using mid-infrared spectroscopy prediction equations. Variance components for these traits were estimated using 136,807 test-day records from 5 to 305 d in milk (DIM) from 9,824 cows using random regressions to model the additive genetic and within-lactation permanent environmental variances. Heritability estimates ranged from 0.18 ± 0.01 (26 DIM) to 0.38 ± 0.02 (180 DIM) for rennet coagulation time; from 0.26 ± 0.02 (5 DIM) to 0.57 ± 0.02 (174 DIM) for curd-firming time; from 0.16 ± 0.01 (30 DIM) to 0.56 ± 0.02 (271 DIM) for curd firmness at 30 min; from 0.13 ± 0.01 (30 DIM) to 0.48 ± 0.02 (271 DIM) for curd firmness at 60 min; from 0.08 ± 0.01 (17 DIM) to 0.24 ± 0.01 (180 DIM) for heat coagulation time; from 0.23 ± 0.02 (30 DIM) to 0.43 ± 0.02 (261 DIM) for casein micelle size; and from 0.20 ± 0.01 (30 DIM) to 0.36 ± 0.02 (151 DIM) for milk pH. Within-trait genetic correlations across DIM weakened as the number of days between compared intervals increased but were mostly >0.4 except between the peripheries of the lactation. Eigenvalues and associated eigenfunctions of the additive genetic covariance matrix for all traits revealed that at least the 80% of the genetic variation among animals in lactation profiles was associated with the height of the lactation profile. Curd-firming time and curd firmness at 30 min were weakly to moderately genetically correlated with milk yield (from 0.33 ± 0.05 to 0.59 ± 0.05 for curd-firming time, and from -0.62 ± 0.03 to -0.21 ± 0.06 for curd firmness at 30 min). Milk protein concentration was strongly genetically correlated with curd firmness at 30 min (0.84 ± 0.02 to 0.94 ± 0.01) but only weakly genetically correlated with milk heat coagulation time (-0.27 ± 0.07 to 0.19 ± 0.06). Results from the present study indicate the existence of exploitable genetic variation for milk processing characteristics. Because of possible indirect deterioration in milk processing characteristics due to selection for greater milk yield, emphasis on milk processing characteristics is advised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2017
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16. Factors associated with milk processing characteristics predicted by mid-infrared spectroscopy in a large database of dairy cows.
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Visentin, G., De Marchi, M., Berry, D. P., McDermott, A., Fenelon, M. A., Penasa, M., and McParland, S.
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MILK quality , *INFRARED spectroscopy , *SEASONAL variations in food supply , *LACTATION , *DAIRY cattle , *COAGULATION (Food science) - Abstract
Despite milk processing characteristics being important quality traits, little is known about the factors underlying their variability, due primarily to the resources required to measure these characteristics in a sufficiently large population. Cow milk coagulation properties (rennet coagulation time, curd-firming time, curd firmness 30 and 60 min after rennet addition), heat coagulation time, casein micelle size, and pH were generated from available mid-infrared spectroscopy prediction models. The prediction models were applied to 136,807 spectra collected from 9,824 Irish dairy cows from research and commercial herds. Sources of variation were investigated using linear mixed models that included the fixed effects of calendar month of test; milking time in the day; linear regressions on the proportion of Friesian, Jersey, Montbéliarde, Norwegian Red, and "other" breeds in the cow; coefficients of heterosis and of recombination loss; parity; stage of lactation; and the 2-way interaction parity × stage of lactation. Withinand across-parity cow effects, contemporary group, and a residual term were also included as random effects in the model. Supplementary analyses considered the inclusion of either test-day milk yield or milk protein concentration as fixed-effects covariates in the multiple regression models. Milk coagulation properties were most favorable (i.e., short rennet coagulation time and strong curd firmness) for cheese manufacturing in early lactation, concurrent with the lowest values of both pH and casein micelle size. Milk coagulation properties and pH deteriorated in mid lactation but improved toward the end of lactation. In direct contrast, heat coagulation time was more favorable in mid lactation and less suitable (i.e., shorter) for high temperature treatments in both early and late lactation. Relative to multiparous cows, primiparous cows, on average, yielded milk with shorter rennet coagulation time and longer heat coagulation time. Milk from the evening milking session had shorter rennet coagulation time and greater curd firmness, as well as lower heat coagulation time and lower pH compared with milk from the morning session. Jersey cows, on average, yielded milk more suitable for cheese production rather than for milk powder production. When protein concentration was included in the model, the improvement of milk coagulation properties toward the end of lactation was no longer apparent. Results from the present study may aid in decisionmaking for milk manufacturing, especially in countries characterized by a seasonal supply of fresh milk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2017
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17. Short communication: Effects of pregnancy on milk yield, composition traits, and coagulation properties of Holstein cows.
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Penasa, M., De Marchi, M., and Cassandro, M.
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HOLSTEIN-Friesian cattle , *CATTLE reproduction , *COAGULATION (Food science) , *SOMATIC cells , *CATTLE parturition - Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of pregnancy stage on milk yield, composition traits, and milk coagulation properties in Italian Holstein cattle. The data set included 25,729 records from 3,995 firstparity cows calving between August 2010 and August 2013 in 167 herds. The traits analyzed were milk yield (kg/d), fat (%), protein (%), casein (%), and lactose (%) contents, pH, somatic cell score, rennet coagulation time (min), and curd firmness (mm). To better understand the effect of gestation on the aforementioned traits, each record was assigned to one of the following classes of pregnancy stage: (1) nonpregnant, (2) pregnant from 1 to 120 d, (3) pregnant from 121 to 210 d, and (4) pregnant from 211 to 310 d. Gestation stage significantly influenced all studied traits with the exception of somatic cell score. Milk production decreased and milk quality improved from the fourth month of pregnancy onward. For all traits, nonpregnant cows performed very similarly to cows in the first period of gestation. Rennet coagulation time and curd firmness were influenced by pregnancy stage, especially in the last weeks of gestation when milk had better coagulation characteristics; this information should be accounted for to adjust test-day records in genetic evaluation of milk coagulation properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2016
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18. Short communication: Characterization of soluble thiols in bovine milk.
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Niero, G., De Marchi, M., Masi, A., Penasa, M., and Cassandro, M.
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MILK , *THIOLS , *GLUTATHIONE , *CYSTEINE , *CASEINS - Abstract
Antioxidants are molecules essential for the maintenance of cell homeostasis and their intake through the diet has positive effects on human health. Among antioxidants, low-molecular-weight (LMW) thiols represent an important class of compounds. The aim of this study was to identify LMW thiols in bovine milk. A total of 96 individual milk samples from Brown Swiss, Holstein- Friesian, Alpine Grey, and Simmental cattle breeds were collected in 8 herds. The LMW thiols were extracted from the soluble fraction of milk and, following a derivatization protocol, they were separated by reverse phase HPLC and detected fluorimetrically. Six thiol species were detected and 2, glutathione (GSH) and cysteine-glycine (Cys-Gly), were identified and quantified. Regardless of the breed, the average concentration of Cys-Gly in milk was greater than that of GSH. Overall, milk from dual-purpose breeds (Simmental and Alpine Grey) was richer in LMW thiols than milk from dairy cows (Holstein-Friesian and Brown Swiss). Glutathione and Cys-Gly, closely linked metabolically, were strongly correlated. Pearson correlations of Cys-Gly with protein and casein contents were moderately low, and no relationship was found between GSH and milk chemical composition. Future research should focus on the identification of all detected LMW thiol species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2015
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19. Reproducibility and repeatability of milk coagulation properties predicted by mid-infrared spectroscopy.
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Penasa, M., De Marchi, M., Ton, S., Ancilotto, L., and Cassandro, M.
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COAGULATION (Food science) , *INFRARED spectroscopy , *RENNET , *REPRODUCIBLE research , *BRONOPOL - Abstract
The objective of this study was to assess reproducibility and repeatability of milk coagulation properties (MCP) predicted by mid-infrared spectroscopy (MIRS). Individual milk samples from a single dairy herd were collected during 8 sampling dates, added with preservative (Bronopol) and analysed in two laboratories. Ten cows were randomly selected within each sampling date. Rennet coagulation time (RCT, min) and curd firmness (a 30 , mm) were predicted in the two laboratories using MIRS. Besides predicting MCP through MIRS, RCT and a 30 were measured by Formagraph. Reproducibilities of RCT and a 30 predicted by MIRS were 67.3 and 71.9%, respectively. Repeatabilities of RCT and a 30 predicted by MIRS and determined by Formagraph were 92.8 and 95.8%, and 98.6 and 95.8%, respectively. Results indicated that MIRS predictions of MCP are repeatable, but not highly reproducible. Further efforts are needed to improve the standardisation among laboratories to enhance reproducibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2015
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20. Technical note: Improving the accuracy of mid-infrared prediction models by selecting the most informative wavelengths.
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Gottardo, P., De Marchi, M., Cassandro, M., and Penasa, M.
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INFRARED spectroscopy , *MILK analysis , *ACIDITY function , *CALIBRATION , *VOLUMETRIC analysis - Abstract
Mid-infrared spectroscopy (MIRS) is widely used to collect milk phenotypes at the population level. The aim of this study was to test the ability of the uninformative variable elimination (UVE) method to select and remove uninformative wavelength variables before partial least squares (PLS) analysis. Milk titratable acidity (TA) and Ca content were used as examples to illustrate the procedure. Reference values and MIRS spectra (n = 208) of TA and Ca were retrieved from an existing database. The data set was randomly divided into calibration (70% of data) and validation (30% of data) sets, and PLS analysis was carried out before and after the UVE procedure. The UVE procedure selected 244 and 113 informative wavelengths for TA and Ca, respectively, from a total of 1,060. The elimination of uninformative variables before PLS regression increased the accuracy of MIRS prediction models, and it substantially reduced the computation time. Dealing with fewer variables is expected to enhance the efficiency of MIRS models to predict phenotypes at population level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2015
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21. Genetic parameters for milk mineral content and acidity predicted by mid-infrared spectroscopy in Holstein–Friesian cows.
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Toffanin, V., Penasa, M., McParland, S., Berry, D. P., Cassandro, M., and De Marchi, M.
- Abstract
The aim of the present study was to estimate genetic parameters for calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P) and titratable acidity (TA) in bovine milk predicted by mid-IR spectroscopy (MIRS). Data consisted of 2458 Italian Holstein−Friesian cows sampled once in 220 farms. Information per sample on protein and fat percentage, pH and somatic cell count, as well as test-day milk yield, was also available. (Co)variance components were estimated using univariate and bivariate animal linear mixed models. Fixed effects considered in the analyses were herd of sampling, parity, lactation stage and a two-way interaction between parity and lactation stage; an additive genetic and residual term were included in the models as random effects. Estimates of heritability for Ca, P and TA were 0.10, 0.12 and 0.26, respectively. Positive moderate to strong phenotypic correlations (0.33 to 0.82) existed between Ca, P and TA, whereas phenotypic weak to moderate correlations (0.00 to 0.45) existed between these traits with both milk quality and yield. Moderate to strong genetic correlations (0.28 to 0.92) existed between Ca, P and TA, and between these predicted traits with both fat and protein percentage (0.35 to 0.91). The existence of heritable genetic variation for Ca, P and TA, coupled with the potential to predict these components for routine cow milk testing, imply that genetic gain in these traits is indeed possible. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]
- Published
- 2015
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22. Effectiveness of mid-infrared spectroscopy for prediction of the contents of calcium and phosphorus, and titratable acidity of milk and their relationship with milk quality and coagulation properties.
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Toffanin, V., De Marchi, M., Lopez-Villalobos, N., and Cassandro, M.
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INFRARED spectroscopy , *ACIDITY , *INDUCTIVELY coupled plasma mass spectrometry , *MILK quality , *COMPOSITION of milk , *COAGULATION (Food science) - Abstract
Individual milk samples from Holstein Friesian cows were collected and analysed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) and titration for the determination of calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P) and titratable acidity (TA) contents, respectively. Prediction models were obtained using partial least squares (PLS) regression analyses using two statistical packages. The average Ca, P and TA were 1156 mg kg −1 , 934 mg kg −1 and 3.42 °SH 50 mL −1 , respectively. Pearson's correlations between Ca and P and other milk traits were significant ( P < 0.05) and ranged from 0.16 to 0.53 for chemical composition traits and from 0.17 to −0.35 for milk coagulation properties (MCP). Results from the two statistical packages were comparable. Prediction models using MIR spectroscopy were satisfactory for Ca, P and TA, with coefficients of correlation of cross-validation greater than 0.73. Moreover, the study highlighted favourable relationships of these traits with milk coagulation properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2015
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23. Invited review: mid-infrared spectroscopy as phenotyping tool for milk traits.
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De Marchi, M., Toffanin, V., Cassandro, M., and Penasa, M.
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INFRARED spectroscopy , *MILK quality , *ELECTROMAGNETIC radiation , *FATTY acids , *KETONES - Abstract
Interest in methods that routinely and accurately measure and predict animal characteristics is growing in importance, both for quality characterization of livestock products and for genetic purposes. Mid-infrared spectroscopy (MIRS) is a rapid and cost-effective tool for recording phenotypes at the population level. Mid-infrared spectroscopy is based on crossing matter by electromagnetic radiation and on the subsequent measure of energy absorption, and it is commonly used to determine traditional milk quality traits in official milk laboratories. The aim of this review was to focus on the use of MIRS to predict new milk phenotypes of economic relevance such as fatty acid and protein composition, coagulation properties, acidity, mineral composition, ketone bodies, body energy status, and methane emissions. Analysis of the literature demonstrated the feasibility of MIRS to predict these traits, with different accuracies and with margins of improvement of prediction equations. In general, the reviewed papers underlined the influence of data variability, reference method, and unit of measurement on the development of robust models. A crucial point in favor of the application of MIRS is to stimulate the exchange of data among countries to develop equations that take into account the biological variability of the studied traits under different conditions. Due to the large variability of reference methods used for MIRS calibration, it is essential to standardize the methods used within and across countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2014
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24. Factors associated with age at slaughter and carcass weight, price, and value of dairy cull cows.
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Bazzoli, I., De Marchi, M., Cecchinato, A., Berry, D. P., and Bittante, G.
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CATTLE carcasses , *DAIRY cattle , *SLAUGHTERING , *LIVESTOCK carcasses , *ANIMAL carcasses - Abstract
The sale of cull cows contributes to the overall profit of dairy herds. The objective of this study was to quantify the factors associated with slaughter age (mo), cow carcass weight (kg), price (€/kg of carcass weight), and value (€/head) of dairy cull cows. Data included 20,995 slaughter records in the period from 2003 to 2011 of 5 different breeds: 2 dairy [Holstein Friesian (HF) and Brown Swiss (BS)] and 3 dual-purpose [Simmental (Si), Alpine Grey (AG), and Rendena (Re)]. Associations of breed, age of cow (except when the dependent variable was slaughter age), and year and month of slaughter with slaughter age, carcass weight, price, and value were quantified using a mixed linear model; herd was included as a random effect. The seasonal trends in cow price and value traits were inversely related to the number of cows slaughtered, whereas annual variation in external factors affected market conditions. Relative to BS cows, HF cows were younger at slaughter (73.1 vs. 80.7 mo), yielded slightly lighter carcasses (242 vs. 246 kg), and received a slightly lower price (1.69 vs. 1.73 €/kg) and total value (394 vs. 417 €/head). Dual-purpose breeds were older and heavier and received a much greater price and total value at slaughter (521, 516, and 549 €/head, respectively for Si, Re, and AG) than either dairy breed. Of the dual-purpose cows, Si carcasses were heavier (271 kg), whereas the carcasses of local breeds received a higher price (2.05 and 2.18 €/kg for Re and AG, respectively) and Alpine Grey cows were the oldest at slaughter (93.3 mo). The price per kilogram of cull cow carcasses was greatest for very young cows (i.e., <3 yr of age) and the differential in price and value between younger and older cows was greater in dual-purpose than in dairy breeds. Large differences in cull cow whole carcass value (carcass weight x unit price) among dairy breeds suggest that such a trait could be considered in the breeding objectives of the breeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2014
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- View/download PDF
25. Heritability and repeatability of milk coagulation properties predicted by mid-infrared spectroscopy during routine data recording, and their relationships with milk yield and quality traits.
- Author
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Tiezzi, F., Pretto, D., De Marchi, M., Penasa, M., and Cassandro, M.
- Abstract
The aim of this study was to estimate (co)variance components for milk coagulation properties (MCP) predicted by mid-infrared spectroscopy (MIRS) during routine milk recording, and to assess their relationships with yield and quality traits. A total of 63 470 milk samples from Holstein-Friesian cows were analyzed for MCP, pH and quality characteristics using MIRS. Casein to protein and protein to fat ratios were calculated from information obtained by MIRS. Records were collected across 1 year on 16 089 cows in 345 herds. The model used for genetic analysis included fixed effects of parity and stage of lactation, and random effects of herd-test-day, cow permanent environmental, animal additive genetic and residual. (Co)variance components were assessed in a Bayesian framework using the Gibbs Sampler. Estimates of heritabilities were consistent with those reported in the literature, being moderate for MCP (0.210 and 0.238 for rennet coagulation time (RCT) and curd firmness (a30), respectively), milk contents (0.213 to 0.333) and pH (0.262), and low for somatic cell score (0.093) and yield traits (0.098 to 0.130). Repeatabilities were 0.391 and 0.434 for RCT and a30, respectively, and genetic correlations were generally low, with estimates greater than 0.30 (in absolute value) only for a30 with fat, protein and casein contents. Overall, results suggest that genetic evaluation for MCP predicted by MIRS is feasible at population level, and several repeated measures per cow during a lactation are required to estimate reliable breeding values for coagulation traits. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]
- Published
- 2013
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26. Prediction of coagulating and noncoagulating milk samples using mid-infrared spectroscopy.
- Author
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De Marchi, M., Toffanin, V., Cassandro, M., and Penasa, M.
- Subjects
- *
CURDLING of milk , *INFRARED spectroscopy , *HOLSTEIN-Friesian cattle , *RENNET , *ENZYMES - Abstract
Recently, a general deterioration of milk coagulation properties (MCP) has been observed in Italy; thus, the prediction of noncoagulating (NC) milk, defined as milk not forming a curd within 30 min from rennet addition, is of immediate interest in the Italian cheese industry. The present study investigated the ability of mid-infrared (MIR) spectroscopy to predict NC milk using individual and bulk samples from Holstein cows. Samples were selected according to MIR analysis to cover the range of coagulation time between 5 and 60 min. Milks were then analyzed for MCP through the reference instrument (Formagraph) over an extended testing period of 60 min to identify coagulating and NC samples. Measured traits were rennet coagulation time, curd-firming time, and curd firmness 30 and 60 min after rennet addition. Results showed no specific spectral information distinguishing NC from coagulating samples. The most accurate prediction model was developed for rennet coagulation time followed by curd- firming time and curd firmness 30 min after rennet addition, whereas curd firmness 60 min after enzyme addition could not be accurately predicted. Based on these findings, MIR spectroscopy might be proposed in payment systems to reward or penalize milk according to MCP. Moreover, the ability of MIR spectroscopy to predict the MCP of samples that form a curd beyond 30 min from enzyme addition may be of interest for genetic improvement of coagulation traits in dairy breeds, because until now most studies have excluded NC information from genetic analysis, leading to possible biases in the estimation of genetic parameters and in the prediction of sire's merit for MCP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2013
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
27. The relevance of different near infrared technologies and sample treatments for predicting meat quality traits in commercial beef cuts
- Author
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De Marchi, M., Penasa, M., Cecchinato, A., and Bittante, G.
- Subjects
- *
MEAT quality , *BEEF , *NEAR infrared reflectance spectroscopy , *MEAT aging , *LEAST squares , *NEAR infrared spectroscopy - Abstract
Abstract: Visible and near infrared reflectance (Vis-NIR, 350 to 1800nm), and near infrared transmittance (NIT, 850 to 1050nm) spectroscopy were used to predict beef quality traits of intact and ground meat samples. Calibration equations were developed from reference data (n =312) of pH, color traits (L*, a*, and b*), ageing loss (%), cooking loss (%), and Warner–Bratzler shear force (WBSF, N) using partial least squares regressions. Predictive ability of the models was assessed by coefficient of determination of cross-validation (R 2 CV) and root mean square error of cross-validation. Quality traits were better predicted on intact than on ground samples, and the best results were obtained using Vis-NIR spectroscopy. Predictions were good (R 2 CV =0.62 to 0.73) for pH, L*, and a*, hardly sufficient (R 2 CV =0.34 to 0.60) for b*, cooking loss, and WBSF, and unsatisfactory for ageing loss (R 2 CV =0.15). Vis-NIR spectroscopy might be used to predict some physical beef quality traits on intact meat samples. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]
- Published
- 2013
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28. Use of near infrared transmittance spectroscopy to predict fatty acid composition of chicken meat
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Riovanto, R., De Marchi, M., Cassandro, M., and Penasa, M.
- Subjects
- *
NEAR infrared spectroscopy , *MEAT , *FOOD chemistry , *FOOD composition , *UNSATURATED fatty acids in human nutrition , *CALIBRATION - Abstract
Abstract: In the present study, near infrared transmittance (NIT) spectroscopy was tested as a potential analytical technique to predict the FA profile of ground chicken breast (Pectoralis superficialis) considering the wavelengths between 850 and 1050nm. Calibration equations were built using reference data expressed as (i) percentage of total FA and (ii) absolute concentration, i.e., mg of FA in 100g of fresh meat. Calibrations developed on FA expressed in absolute concentration were much more accurate than those developed on percentage of total FA. The highest performances were obtained for two groups of FA, namely saturated and monounsaturated ( of 0.90 and 0.93, and SECV of 53.59 and 70.13mg of FA on 100g of meat, respectively), and for few individual FA (palmitic acid, oleic acid), having higher than 0.9. Sample pre-processing (milling) and different spectra pre-treatments were necessary to maximise the performance. Polyunsaturated FA were the hardest components to determine ( of 0.62 and SECV of 61.96mg of FA on 100g of meat) and results suggest that NIT spectroscopy cannot be referred to as reliable method to predict these constituents. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]
- Published
- 2012
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29. At-line prediction of fatty acid profile in chicken breast using near infrared reflectance spectroscopy
- Author
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De Marchi, M., Riovanto, R., Penasa, M., and Cassandro, M.
- Subjects
- *
FATTY acids , *REFLECTANCE spectroscopy , *PECTORALIS muscle , *GAS chromatography , *CHEMOMETRICS , *SLAUGHTERING - Abstract
Abstract: Near infrared reflectance (NIR) spectroscopy was evaluated as at-line technique to predict FA profile of chicken breast directly at the slaughterhouse. Intact breasts of 214 chickens were scanned by applying a fiber optic probe to the Pectoralis superficialis muscle. Meat samples were analyzed by gas chromatography as the reference method for the determination of FA composition. Calibration equations were developed considering NIR wavelengths between 1100 and 1830nm, and modified partial least square (MPLS) was chosen as the chemometrics method to perform the calibrations. Different mathematical pre-treatments were tested and the best calibration equation for each FA was retained. Near infrared reflectance spectroscopy did not result in satisfactory predictions of FA. The best predictions were observed for oleic acid (C18:1n-9), monounsaturated FA (MUFA), and polyunsaturated FA (PUFA), and for a few minor FA. Results suggest that for chicken breast muscle, a lean meat, it was not possible to predict FA using NIR spectroscopy as an at-line technique in the abattoir. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]
- Published
- 2012
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- View/download PDF
30. Effect of high or low protein ration combined or not with rumen protected conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) on meat CLA content and quality traits of double-muscled Piemontese bulls
- Author
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Schiavon, S., De Marchi, M., Tagliapietra, F., Bailoni, L., Cecchinato, A., and Bittante, G.
- Subjects
- *
MEAT quality , *PROTEINS in animal nutrition , *BULLS , *RUMEN (Ruminants) , *LINOLEIC acid , *BODY weight , *FATTY acids , *FEED utilization efficiency - Abstract
Abstract: A trial was carried out on double-muscled Piemontese bulls to evaluate the effects of two rations differing in crude protein density (HP=14.5% DM and LP=10.8% DM) and top dressed or not with 80g/d of rumen protected CLA (rpCLA) for a long period (336d) on meat quality traits and CLA content. Forty-eight bulls were fed one of the four experimental diets based on corn silage and cereals and were slaughtered at an average age and body weight (BW) of 562±18d and 668±56kg, respectively. After slaughter the 5th rib cut was dissected into Longissimus thoracis (LT), other muscles (OM), inter-muscular fat (IF), cover fat (CF), and bones. Muscles and fatty tissues were analyzed for proximate composition and fatty acid (FA) profiles. Rib was composed by 81.1, 3.7, 1.6 and 13.6% of muscles, IF, FC and bone, respectively; LT and OM contained only 0.8 and 1.4% of lipid, respectively. The treatments did not influence these values, but rpCLA increased, compared to control, both c9,t11-CLA and t10,c12-CLA concentrations in all the tissues (P <0.01); t10,c12-CLA concentration was increased much more in muscles (+20 times) than in fatty tissues (from +0.2 to +0.9 times). This suggests that in the muscle this isomer is preferentially stored and/or less combusted with respect to other fatty acids. Low protein rations did not exert any influence on carcass and meat quality, as on growth performance, but reduced nitrogen excretion, their use for improving the environmental impact (process quality) of this meat production system is recommended. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]
- Published
- 2011
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- View/download PDF
31. Variation of genetic diversity over time in local Italian chicken breeds undergoing in situ conservation.
- Author
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Zanetti, E., De Marchi, M., Abbadi, M., and Cassandro, M.
- Subjects
- *
ANIMAL genetics , *MICROSATELLITE repeats , *CHICKEN breeds , *HETEROZYGOSITY , *GENETIC polymorphisms , *POULTRY industry - Abstract
The aim of this study was to analyze the variation of different genetic diversity measures in 5 Italian local chicken breeds over a 4-yr period of conservation. The local breeds were Ermellinata di Rovigo, Padovana, Pépoi, Robusta Lionata, and Robusta Maculata. A total of 368 samples were chosen for the analysis among the birds hatched in the years 2002 and 2006. Genetic variation over 30 microsatellite loci was analyzed. All 30 microsatellites were polymorphic, with a total number of alleles equal to 251, a mean (±SD) of 8.367 ± 3.378 across populations and 3.233 ± 1.338 within population. After 4 yr of conservation, a loss of alleles occurred for all the microsatellites, with the exception of 4 loci. The total number of alleles and expected heterozygosity estimates significantly decreased during the 4 yr of conservation, whereas no significant differences were detected for the microsatellites polymorphism information content or for the observed heterozygosity estimates. A decrease of the inbreeding coefficient occurred for all the breeds, with the exception of Padovana and Robusta Lionata. All populations showed evidence of a persistent significant deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium caused by an excess of homozygotes, except Robusta Maculata, which reached the equilibrium in 2006. For Pépoi, Padovana, Ermellinata di Rovigo, and Robusta Maculata, molecular coancestry increased significantly (P < 0.001) after the 4 yr of conservation. No evident genetic structures were detectable within breed, both for 2002 and for 2006 individuals. However, a slight increase in the proportion of membership for each breed had occurred in the year 2006 compared with the data obtained in the year 2002. As consequence, within breed, individuals in 2006 appear more homogeneous, producing clearer, more distinctive and separated groups. Molecular markers analysis helped us monitor the genetic variability of local breeds involved in a conservation scheme, enabling the planning of new strategies for the improvement of in situ conservation schemes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2011
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
32. Feasibility of the direct application of near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy on intact chicken breasts to predict meat color and physical traits.
- Author
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de Marchi, M., Penasa, M., Battagin, M., Zanetti, E., Pulici, C., and Cassandro, M.
- Subjects
- *
MEAT industry , *MEAT quality , *NEAR infrared reflectance spectroscopy , *REGRESSION analysis , *CHEMOMETRICS - Abstract
Physical and color characteristics of chicken meat were investigated on 193 animals by directly applying a fiberoptic probe to the breast muscle and using the visible-near-infrared (NIR) spectral range from 350 to 1,800 nm. Data on pH was recorded 48 h post-mortem (pH); lightness (L*), redness (a*), and yellowness (b*) 48 h postmortem; thawing and cooking losses and shear force after freezing. Partial least squares regressions were performed using untreated data, raw absorbance data (log(1/R)), and multiplicative scatter correction plus first or second derivative spectra. Models were validated using full cross-validation, and their predictive ability was determined by root mean square error of cross-validation (RMSECV) and correlation coefficient of cross-validation (rcv). Means (±SD) of pH, L*, a*, b*, thawing loss, cooking loss, and shear force were 5.83 ± 0.13, 44.54 + 2.42, -1.90 ± 0.62, 3.21 ± 3.28, 4.84 + 2.44%, 19.39 + 2.95%, and 16.08 ± 3.83 N, respectively. The best prediction models were developed using log(1/R) spectra for b* (rcv = 0.93; RMSECV = 1.16) and a* (rcv = 0.88; RMSECV = 0.29), while a medium predictive ability of NIR was obtained for pH, L*, and thawing and cooking losses (rcv from 0.69 to 0.76; RMSECV from 0.01 to 1.73). Finally, predicted model for shear force (rcv = 0.41; RMSECV = 3.18) was unsatisfactory. Results suggest that NIR is a feasible technique for the assessment of several quality traits of intact breast muscle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2011
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
33. Progress in infection prevention and control in Italy: a nationwide survey.
- Author
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Moro, M.L., Marchi, M., Buttazzi, R., and Nascetti, S.
- Abstract
Summary: A national survey was conducted to describe the coverage and characteristics of infection prevention and control (IC) programmes in Italy and to evaluate progress during recent years. All regions, with one small exception, participated and the response rate was 88%. Nearly all 278 respondent public health trusts reported having an IC committee, 80% of the 615 respondent hospitals to have instituted an IC team, and 79% to have an IC nurse. However, when the presence of truly operating IC bodies was considered, the pattern was different: only 27% of IC teams met at least monthly, and variation by region was extremely large [coefficient of variation (CV): 1.06]. The IC programme characteristics with the greatest variation by region included: availability of qualified nurses and IC doctors (CV: 1.55 and 1.39 respectively); integration of IC activities and clinical risk management (CV: 1.05); IC programmes also involving community services (CV: 0.98); training of personnel at induction (CV: 0.82); and availability of written policies for the control of multidrug-resistant organisms (CV: 1.08). A relevant and statistically significant North–South gradient showed Southern Regions averaging 23 points less than Northern Regions on the IC score. Compared with a similar survey conducted in 2000, the distribution of several activities by region had improved significantly. Despite the noteworthy improvement observed over time, the situation in Italy is still unsatisfactory, due to significant variation in the development of IC organisations and initiatives by region and by type of hospital. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2011
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
34. Genetic characterization of local Italian breeds of chickens undergoing in situ conservation.
- Author
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Zanetti, E., De Marchi, M., Dalvit, C., and Cassandro, M.
- Subjects
- *
POULTRY breeding , *CHICKENS , *MICROSATELLITE repeats , *ANIMAL genetics , *ANIMAL populations , *ALLELES - Abstract
The objectives of this study were to determine genetic variation and to analyze population structure of 6 Italian local chicken breeds involved in a conservation program. Twenty microsatellite markers were investigated in 337 birds belonging to 6 breeds: Ermellinata di Rovigo, Robusta Maculata, Robusta Lionata, Pépoi, Padovana, and Polverara; a commercial layer cross was used as reference. One hundred twelve alleles were detected in the overall population, with a mean number of 5.6 + 2.1 alleles per locus. For the local breeds, the observed and expected heterozygosity ranged from a minimum of 0.240 to a maximum of 0.413 and from 0.243 to 0.463 for the Pépoi and Polverara breeds, respectively. Deviation from HardyWeinberg equilibrium was observed in 5 breeds and in the commercial cross. The overall population heterozygote deficiency was 0.427, the average inbreeding coefficient was 0.097, and the heterozygote deficiency due to breed subdivisions was 0.437. Reynolds' distances were used to draw an unrooted neighbor-joining tree, which topology gave information on the genetic origin of these breeds and confirmed their known history. The estimated molecular kinship within a breed ranged from 0.559 to 0.769, evidencing high coancestry. Structure analysis was performed to detect the presence of population substructures. Inferred clusters corresponded to the different breeds, without presence of admixture. The exception was the Polverara breed, for which a more complex genetic structure was found. The results supported the decision of safeguarding these breeds as an important reservoir of genetic diversity and confirmed the usefulness of microsatellite markers to characterize and to monitor genetic variability in local chicken breeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2010
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
35. Mid-infrared spectroscopy predictions as indicator traits in breeding programs for enhanced coagulation properties of milk.
- Author
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Cecchinato, A., De Marchi, M., Gallo, L., Bittante, G., and Carnier, P.
- Subjects
- *
COAGULATION (Food science) , *MILK , *INFRARED spectroscopy , *DAIRY cattle breeding , *BROWN Swiss cattle , *HEREDITY , *MILK yield - Abstract
The aims of this study were to investigate variation of milk coagulation property (MCP) measures and their predictions obtained by mid-infrared spectroscopy (MIR), to investigate the genetic relationship between measures of MCP and MIR predictions, and to estimate the expected response from a breeding program focusing on the enhancement of MCP using MIR predictions as indicator traits. Individual milk samples were collected from 1,200 Brown Swiss cows (progeny of 50 artificial insemination sires) reared in 30 herds located in northern Italy. Rennet coagulation time (RCT, min) and curd firmness (a30, mm) were measured using a computerized renneting meter. The MIR data were recorded over the spectral range of 4,000 to 900 cm-1. Prediction models for RCT and a30 based on MIR spectra were developed using partial least squares regression. A cross-validation procedure was carried out. The procedure involved the partition of available data into 2 subsets: a calibration subset and a test subset. The calibration subset was used to develop a calibration equation able to predict individual MCP phenotypes using MIR spectra. The test subset was used to validate the calibration equation and to estimate heritabilities and genetic correlations for measured MCP and their predictions obtained from MIR spectra and the calibration equation. Point estimates of heritability ranged from 0.30 to 0.34 and from 0.22 to 0.24 for RCT and a30, respectively. Heritability estimates for MCP predictions were larger than those obtained for measured MCP. Estimated genetic correlations between measures and predictions of RCT were very high and ranged from 0.91 to 0.96. Estimates of the genetic correlation between measures and predictions of a30 were large and ranged from 0.71 to 0.87. Predictions of MCP provided by MIR techniques can be proposed as indicator traits for the genetic enhancement of MCP. The expected response of RCT and a30 ensured by the selection using MIR predictions as indicator traits was equal to or slightly less than the response achievable through a single measurement of these traits. Breeding strategies for the enhancement of MCP based on MIR predictions as indicator traits could be easily and immediately implemented for dairy cattle populations where routine acquisition of spectra from individual milk samples is already performed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2009
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
36. Bariatric surgery in obesity: Changes of glucose and lipid metabolism correlate with changes of fat mass.
- Author
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Frige', F., Laneri, M., Veronelli, A., Folli, F., Paganelli, M., Vedani, P., Marchi, M., Noe', D., Ventura, P., Opocher, E., and Pontiroli, A.E.
- Abstract
Abstract: Background and Aim: Bariatric surgery induces significant weight loss and improves glucose metabolism in obese patients (BMI>35kg/m
2 ). Our aim was to compare restrictive (LAGB, laparoscopic gastric banding) and malabsorptive approaches (BIBP, biliary-intestinal bypass) on the loss of fat-free mass (FFM), fat mass (FM), and on changes of glucose and lipid metabolism. Methods and Results: Body composition (bio-impedance analysis, BIA), blood glucose (BG), insulin, triglycerides, total- and HDL-cholesterol, liver enzymes (AST and ALT) were measured at baseline and 1 year after surgery in patients undergoing LAGB, BIBP, and in diet-treated control patients. In the main study, with patients matched for initial BMI (43–55kg/m2 , LAGB=24, BIBP=12, controls=6), decreases of BMI, FM, BG and cholesterol were greater in patients with BIBP than with LAGB (p <0.01), while decreases of FFM, insulin, HOMA-IR and triglycerides were similar. No effects on BMI, FM, FFM, BG, insulin, HOMA-IR or cholesterol were observed in the control patients. Decreases of BG, insulin, HOMA-IR, cholesterol and triglycerides correlated with FM but not with FFM decrease. Similar results were obtained in an additional study in patients with a different initial BMI (LAGB=25, BIBP=6, controls=24) and when considering all subjects together. A decrease of liver enzymes (ALT) was greater with LAGB than with BIBP, and HDL-cholesterol increased with LAGB and decreased with BIBP. Conclusion: BMI, FM, BG and cholesterol decrease more with malabsorptive than with restrictive surgery, while FFM, insulin, HOMA-IR and triglycerides decrease in a similar way. FFM loss is of low entity. Changes of glucose and lipid metabolism are proportional to a decrease of fat mass but not of fat-free mass. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]- Published
- 2009
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
37. Effect of weight loss through laparoscopic gastric banding on blood pressure, plasma renin activity and aldosterone levels in morbid obesity.
- Author
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Dall'Asta, C., Vedani, P., Manunta, P., Pizzocri, P., Marchi, M., Paganelli, M., Folli, F., and Pontiroli, A.E.
- Abstract
Abstract: Background and aims: Several mechanisms are probably involved in obesity-related hypertension. This study was aimed to investigate the effect of significant weight loss on blood pressure and plasma renin activity (PRA) and aldosterone levels, other then on metabolic profile, in normotensive and hypertensive obese subjects. Methods and results: Forty hypertensive and 55 normotensive obese subjects were studied under basal conditions and again 1 year after significant weight loss obtained through laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB). Weight, waist circumference, blood glucose, insulin, electrolytes (Na and K), lipids and supine and upright PRA and aldosterone were evaluated. All parameters evaluated improved, except for total cholesterol, and electrolytes that did not change. Blood pressure decreased in hypertensive subjects, with a concordant decrease in PRA and supine aldosterone levels, not observed in normotensive patients. Conclusion: Weight loss is associated with reduction of blood pressure and of PRA and aldosterone levels in obese hypertensive subjects. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]
- Published
- 2009
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
38. Prediction of coagulation properties, titratable acidity, and pH of bovine milk using mid-infrared spectroscopy.
- Author
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De Marchi, M., Fagan, C. C., O'Donnell, C. P., Cecchinato, A., Dal Zotto, R., Cassandro, M., Penasa, M., and Bittante, G.
- Subjects
- *
INFRARED spectroscopy , *MILK quality , *COAGULATION (Food science) , *VOLUMETRIC analysis , *HYDROGEN-ion concentration , *BROWN Swiss cattle , *DAIRY industry - Abstract
This study investigated the potential application of mid-infrared spectroscopy (MIR 4,000-900 cm-1) for the determination of milk coagulation properties (MCP), titratable acidity (TA), and pH in Brown Swiss milk samples (n = 1,064). Because MCP directly influence the efficiency of the cheese-making process, there is strong industrial interest in developing a rapid method for their assessment. Currently, the determination of MCP involves time-consuming laboratory-based measurements, and it is not feasible to carry out these measurements on the large numbers of milk samples associated with milk recording programs. Mid-infrared spectroscopy is an objective and nondestructive technique providing rapid real-time analysis of food compositional and quality parameters. Analysis of milk rennet coagulation time (RCT, min), curd firmness (a30, mm), TA (SH°/50 mL; SH° = Soxhlet-Henkel degree), and pH was carried out, and MIR data were recorded over the spectral range of 4,000 to 900 cm-1. Models were developed by partial least squares regression using untreated and pretreated spectra. The MCP, TA, and pH prediction models were improved by using the combined spectral ranges of 1,600 to 900 cm-1, 3,040 to 1,700 cm-1, and 4,000 to 3,470 cm-1. The root mean square errors of cross-validation for the developed models were 2.36 min (RCT, range 24.9 min), 6.86 mm (a30, range 58 mm), 0.25 SH°/50 mL (TA, range 3.58 SH°/50 mL), and 0.07 (pH, range 1.15). The most successfully predicted attributes were TA, RCT, and pH. The model for the prediction of TA provided approximate prediction (R² = 0.66), whereas the predictive models developed for RCT and pH could discriminate between high and low values (R² = 0.59 to 0.62). It was concluded that, although the models require further development to improve their accuracy before their application in industry, MIR spectroscopy has potential application for the assessment of RCT, TA, and pH during routine milk analysis in the dairy industry. The implementation of such models could be a means of improving MCP through phenotypic-based selection programs and to amend milk payment systems to incorporate MCP into their payment criteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2009
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
39. Reproducibility and Repeatability of Measures of Milk Coagulation Properties and Predictive Ability of Mid-Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy.
- Author
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Dal Zotto, R., De Marchi, M., Cecchinato, A., Penasa, M., Cassandro, M., Carnier, P., Gallo, L., and Bittante, G.
- Subjects
- *
REFLECTANCE spectroscopy , *CURDLING of milk , *HOLSTEIN-Friesian cattle , *CATTLE breeding , *GENETICS - Abstract
The objectives of the study were to estimate the reproducibility and repeatability of milk coagulation properties (MCP) measured by a computerized renneting meter (CRM) and to evaluate the predictive ability of mid-infrared spectroscopy (MIRS) as an innovative technology for the assessment of rennet coagulation time (RCT, min) and curd firmness (a30, mm). Four samples without addition of preservative (NP) and 4 samples with Bronopol addition (PS) were collected from each of 83 Holstein-Friesian cows. Six hours after collection, 2 replicated measures of MCP were obtained with CRM using 1 NP and 1 PS sample from each cow. Mid-infrared spectra of the remaining NP and PS samples from each animal were recorded after 6 h, 4 d, and 8 d after sampling. Two groups of calibration equations were developed using MIRS spectra and CRM measures of MCP as reference data obtained from analysis of NP and PS, respectively. Reproducibility and repeatability of CRM measures were obtained from REML estimation of variance components on the basis of a linear model including the fixed effects of herd and days in milk class and the random effects of cows, sample treatment (addition or no addition of preservative), and the interaction between cow and sample treatment. Coefficient of reproducibility is an indicator of the agreement between 2 measurements of MCP for the same milk sample preserved with or without addition of Bronopol. Coefficient of repeatability is an indicator of the agreement between repeated measures of MCP. Pearson correlations between MCP measures for NP and PS were 0.97 and 0.83 for RCT and a30, respectively. Reproducibility of CRM measures under different preserving conditions of milk was 93.5% for RCT and 64.6% for a30. Repeatabilities of RCT and a30 measures were 95.7 and 77.3%, respectively. Based on the estimated cross-validation standard errors and coefficients of determination and ratios of standard errors of cross-validation to standard deviation of reference data, the predictive ability of MIRS calibration equations was moderate for RCT and unsatisfactory for a30. Predictive ability of equations based on spectra and MCP measures of PS was greater than that of equations based on data of NP. The study did not provide conclusive evidence on the effectiveness of MIRS as a predictive tool for MCP and it requires an enlargement of the variability of milk sampling circumstances. Because the relevance of MIRS predictions in relation to breeding programs for MCP based on indicator traits relies on the genetic variation of MIRS predictions and on phenotypic and genetic correlations between MIRS predictions and MCP measures, additional specific investigations on these topics are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2008
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
40. Effect of Holstein Friesian and Brown Swiss Breeds on Quality of Milk and Cheese.
- Author
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De Marchi, M., Bittante, G., Dal Zotto, R., Dalvit, C., and Cassandro, M.
- Subjects
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HOLSTEIN-Friesian cattle , *BROWN Swiss cattle , *CATTLE breeding , *MILK quality , *CHEESE , *COMPOSITION of milk , *MILK yield - Abstract
In Italy, more than 75% of milk is used for cheese making. For this reason, milk composition and coagulation traits and cheese quality represent the most important tools for the economic development of the dairy sector. In particular, cheese quality varies in relation to cheese-making technology and breed of cow. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of 3 types of milk, originating from Holstein-Friesian (HF), Brown Swiss (BS), and mixed of both breeds, on vat milk characteristics, cheese yield, and quality in 3 different typical Italian cheese-making conditions (Casolet, Vezzena, and Grana Trentino). One hundred forty-four cows (66 HF and 78 BS) were involved, and a total of 24 vats of milk were evaluated. At maturity, 30, 21, and 16 wheels of Casolet, Vezzena, and Grana Trentino cheese were analyzed. Brown Swiss cows yielded 9% less milk per day than HF cows, but milk showed greater contents of protein, casein, titratable acidity, and better rennet coagulation time and curd firmness than HF milk. The chemical composition and cholesterol content of the 3 types of cheese were similar between breeds, whereas the cheese made with BS milk showed greater contents of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Cheese made with BS milk had greater b* (yellow component) than HF. Cheese yield, recorded at different ripening times, demonstrated that BS milk yielded more cheese than HF. Mixed milk showed values, on average, intermediate to HF and BS milk characteristics, and this trend was confirmed in cheese yield at different ripening times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2008
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
41. Breed assignment test in four Italian beef cattle breeds
- Author
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Dalvit, C., De Marchi, M., Dal Zotto, R., Gervaso, M., Meuwissen, T., and Cassandro, M.
- Subjects
- *
BEEF cattle breeds , *LIVESTOCK productivity , *BEEF quality , *MEAT quality , *BAYESIAN analysis - Abstract
Abstract: The assessment of a method able to assign individuals to the breed of origin is needed to certify origin and quality of livestock products. A set of 21 microsatellites was tested for breed identification in four native Italian beef breeds: Chianina, Marchigiana, Romagnola, and Piemontese. Two statistical approaches, based on maximum likelihood and on a Bayesian method, were evaluated. Different marker sets, chosen in order of the highest gene diversity and F ST estimates were also tested. The Bayesian method performed better, achieving a correct assignment rate of about 90% even with six microsatellites. The marker sets with the highest gene diversity were shown to perform best. Considering a threshold probability of 90%, only 52.5% of the genotypes were correctly allocated. Such results are mainly due to the low genetic differentiation estimates among breeds (F ST =0.049). These findings suggest that markers with high gene diversity and the presence of private alleles should be investigated and the Bayesian method used. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]
- Published
- 2008
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
42. Genetic traceability of meat using microsatellite markers
- Author
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Dalvit, C., De Marchi, M., Targhetta, C., Gervaso, M., and Cassandro, M.
- Subjects
- *
MEAT industry , *ANIMAL industry , *DAIRY farms , *CATTLE breeds - Abstract
Abstract: Traceability systems have become necessary, especially for beef products, to protect consumers’ health. Aims of this study were to validate and to test a set of 12 microsatellite (STR) markers for the assessment of a genetic traceability system in six cattle breeds. The probability to find, by chance, two individuals sharing the same profile at the studied loci, was computed considering different number of STR, pooling the alleles in each breed, in the total population and in the dairy and beef population separately. Best results were then obtained considering match probabilities per breed. In this study, genotyping the five most polymorphic loci, the probability of finding two identical animals was approximately five in one million. Match probability values increased when the pooled marker sets were used, but were still satisfactory; moreover, use of the pooled marker sets will reduce the cost of analyses. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]
- Published
- 2008
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
43. Heritabilities and Genetic Correlations of Body Condition Score and Calving Interval with Yield, Somatic Cell Score, and Linear Type Traits in Brown Swiss Cattle.
- Author
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Dal Zotto, R., De Marchi, M., Dalvit, C., Cassandro, M., Gallo, L., Carnier, P., and Bittante, G.
- Subjects
- *
CATTLE genetics , *BROWN Swiss cattle , *HERITABILITY , *CATTLE parturition , *SOMATIC cells , *COWS - Abstract
This study aimed to estimate genetic parameters for body condition score (BCS), calving interval (CI), somatic cell score (SCS), yield, and linear type traits for the Italian Brown Swiss cattle population. A total of 32,359 records of first-parity lactating cows were collected from 2002 to 2004 in 4,885 dairy herds. The pedigree file included 96,661 animals. Multiple-trait animal models were analyzed using REML to estimate (co)variance components without repeated observations on traits. The estimated heritability was 0.15 for BCS, 0.05 for CI, and 0.06 for SCS, and ranged from 0.09 to 0.14 for test-day yield traits and from 0.07 to 0.32 for linear type traits. The genetic correlations of CI with yield and most linear type traits were positive, whereas the correlation between CI and BCS was negative (-0.35). For type traits, BCS showed, in general, a moderately negative genetic correlation except for strength, pastern, and heel height. The genetic correlation of CI or BCS with SCS was moderately low but favorable (0.19 and-0.26, respectively). The estimated correlations indicated that selection for greater yield and type traits can exert unfavorable effects on the reproductive ability of cows. To counterbalance these effects and to carry out early prediction of breeding values of bulls for fertility, inclusion of BCS in the breeding program is advisable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2007
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
44. Genetic traceability of livestock products: A review
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Dalvit, C., De Marchi, M., and Cassandro, M.
- Subjects
- *
MEAT science , *ANIMAL products , *FOOD of animal origin , *MEAT industry - Abstract
Abstract: Traceability is the ability to maintain the identification of animal, or animal products, all along the production chain. It represents an essential tool to safeguard public and animal health and to valorize typical production systems. European food legislation is particularly strict and traceability systems, based on product labeling, have become mandatory in all European countries. However, the implementation of this system does not ensure consumers against fraud. Paper documents can be counterfeit so researchers have focused on the study of genetic traceability systems based on products identification through DNA analysis. In fact DNA is inalterable, detectable in every cell, resistant to heat treatments, and allows for individual, breed or species identification. Even if results are promising, these techniques are too expensive to be converted in routine tests but they could be a trusted tool for verification of suspected fraud. The present review proposes a synthesis of the major advances made in individual, breed, and species genetic identification in the last years, focusing on advantages and disadvantages and on their real future applications for animal productions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]
- Published
- 2007
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
45. Milk Coagulation Ability of Five Dairy Cattle Breeds.
- Author
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De Marchi, M., Dal Zotto, R., Cassandro, M., and Bittante, G.
- Subjects
- *
COAGULATION (Food science) , *MILK , *DAIRY cattle breeds , *MILK yield , *MILK proteins , *DAIRY industry - Abstract
Samples of herd milk (506) were analyzed to assess sources of variation for milk coagulation properties (MCP) for 5 different dairy cattle breeds. Data were recorded in 55 single-breed dairy herds in the Trento province, a mountain area in northeast Italy. The 5 cattle breeds were Holstein-Friesian (8 herds), Brown Swiss (16 herds), Simmental (10 herds), Rendena (13 herds), and Alpine Gray (8 herds). Herd milk samples were analyzed for the MCP traits, milk rennet coagulation time (RCT), curd-firming time, and curd firmness (a30), as well as protein and fat percentages, somatic cell count, Soxhlet-Henkel acidity, and bacterial count. An ANOVA was performed to study the effect of breed, herd within breed, DIM, month of lactation, protein and fat percentages, somatic cell score, titratable acidity, and log bacterial count within breed on MCP. Breed was the most important source of variation. In particular, the Rendena breed showed the best MCP traits at 13.5 min and 27.0 mm for RCT and a30, respectively. The Holstein-Friesian breed had the worst coagulation properties at 18.0 min and 17.5 mm for RCT and a30, respectively. The other 3 breeds showed intermediate coagulation properties. The RCT values were better at the beginning of lactation, whereas RCT and a30 values were better in September and October (14.3 min and 25.7 mm, respectively). Among the composition traits, only the titratable acidity affected MCP traits of herd milk positively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2007
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
46. Reviewing the problem of the <f>U(1)</f> axial symmetry and the chiral transition in QCD
- Author
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Marchi, M. and Meggiolaro, E.
- Subjects
- *
AXIAL flow , *FLUID dynamics , *SEMIMODULAR lattices , *LAGRANGE equations - Abstract
We discuss the role of the
U(1) axial symmetry for the phase structure of QCD at finite temperature. We expect that, above a certain critical temperature, also theU(1) axial symmetry will be (effectively) restored. We will try to see if this transition has (or has not) anything to do with the usual chiral transition: various possible scenarios are discussed. In particular, supported by recent lattice results, we analyze a scenario in which aU(1) -breaking condensate survives across the chiral transition. This scenario can be consistently reproduced using an effective Lagrangian model. The effects of theU(1) chiral condensate on the slope of the topological susceptibility in the full theory with quarks are studied: we find that this quantity (in the chiral limit of zero quark masses) acts as an order parameter for theU(1) axial symmetry above the chiral transition. Further information on the newU(1) chiral order parameter is derived from the study (at zero temperature) of the radiative decays of the “light” pseudoscalar mesons in two photons: a comparison of our results with the experimental data is performed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]- Published
- 2003
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
47. Insights into nitrogen footprint accounting for products and application to an organic pig farm.
- Author
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Niccolucci, V., Marchi, M., Neri, E., Pulselli, R.M., Bastianoni, S., and Marchettini, N.
- Subjects
- *
SWINE farms , *ORGANIC products , *ORGANIC farming , *ACCOUNTING methods , *NITROGEN cycle , *FOOTPRINTS - Abstract
[Display omitted] • The N-Footprint accounting combines LCA principles and N impact assessment from IPCC.. • The N-Footprint of "Mora Romagnola" pork is evaluated to illustrate the procedure. • The Reactive nitrogen (Nr) released into the environment is 40.69 g Nr per pig L. W. • The Reactive nitrogen (Nr) is released 38% in atmosphere, 27% in water and 35% in soil. • A comparative analysis confirms the reliability of such accounting procedure. The Nitrogen Footprint (N-Footprint) is the total amount of reactive nitrogen (Nr) released to the environment as a result of an entity's consumption patterns. N-Footprint assessments have mainly been consumer-oriented and country-sized, although concern has recently focused on single products, especially particular foods. While traditionally obtained from several software and/or calculators, the N-Footprint is here proposed to be evaluated by combining the Life Cycle (LCA) approach with a specific N based impact assessment modelling, as derived from Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change guidelines. The theoretical procedure is then applied to a real livestock case study (the Mora Romagnola pig that provides high quality pork), mainly based on primary data. The total amount of Nr released was about 40 kg per pig (live weight), mainly due to direct components (i.e. manure management ∼ 85%). The results highlight the importance of more comprehensive and systematic quantification of emissions, especially direct ones that are neglected in the classical database and software. The Virtual N-Factor (VNF) was 2.3, which indicates that about 30% of N input by weight is incorporated in the meat, while most of it (∼70%) is dispersed to different environmental compartments (38% atmosphere, 35% soil, 27% water). A comparative analysis to check the reliability of outcomes and the robustness of the accounting procedure is also offered and show that these results are consistent with those reported in the literature for other pork products. The main benefit of this procedure is that it produces a unique aggregate result of the entity of human pressure on nitrogen cycle. This ensures a high comparability for results, transparency, and reproducibility of the method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
48. Variation of immunoglobulins G, A, and M and bovine serum albumin concentration in Holstein cow colostrum.
- Author
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Costa, A., Goi, A., Penasa, M., Nardino, G., Posenato, L., and De Marchi, M.
- Abstract
Immunoglobulins G (IgG), A (IgA), and M (IgM) represent 70–80% of total proteins in cattle colostrum and are essential for the passive transfer of antibodies from the dam to the calf. Considering the practical difficulties of colostrum sample collection and the high cost of analysis, non-genetic sources of variation of the three immunoglobulins fractions have been scarcely studied together on a large scale in dairy cows. In the present study, IgG, IgA, IgM, and bovine serum albumin (BSA) were determined in colostrum samples of Holstein cows through bovine-specific radial immunodiffusion kits; such phenotypes allowed to investigate the effects of parity, herd, and calving season, and interactions. Only the first colostrum was considered in the present study, as the calf was separated from the dam immediately after birth and was not allowed to suckle. The average of IgG (n = 676), IgA (n = 573), IgM (n = 658), total immunoglobulins (n = 525), and BSA (n = 614) was 91.31, 4.20, 105.99, 5.05, and 2.47 g/L, respectively, and all traits positively correlated to each other. Overall, the immunoglobulins were less concentrated in colostrum of first- and second-parity cows than later-parity cows. These findings suggest that colostrum quality, based on Ig, is overall greater in cows that experienced more than two lactations, likely due to a greater experience of the immune system and to a wider immune heritage compared to younger cows. As regards the effect of calving season, the concentration of all Ig tended to be generally greater in colostrum sampled from August to November. Moreover, there were differences in IgG, IgA, and IgM concentration among the nine herds involved. Future studies will investigate the relationships of these traits with yield, and gross and detailed composition of bovine colostrum and will consider their genetic background to evaluate potential selection strategies to improve colostrum quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
49. Past, present and future of the Modena Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry Service.
- Author
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Ferrari, S., Marchi, M., Mattei, G., Moscara, M., Galeazzi, G.M., and Pingani, L.
- Subjects
- *
CONSULTATION-liaison psychiatry - Published
- 2021
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
50. Exploring potential risk factors of antimicrobial use in beef cattle.
- Author
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Diana, A., Penasa, M., Santinello, M., Scali, F., Magni, E., Alborali, G.L., Bertocchi, L., and De Marchi, M.
- Abstract
Livestock species are major contributors to the increase of antimicrobial (AM) resistance which is a worldwide concern for both human and animal health. The over-use of AM is widely acknowledged, however, unlike pigs, poultry and dairy cattle, knowledge on potential risk factors affecting AM usage (AMU) in beef industry is limited. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the impact of farm, breed, sex and season of arrival of purchased beef cattle on AMU in Italian beef cattle. Data on 1 063 batches were collected from January 2016 to April 2019 from specialised beef fattening farms located in the north of Italy. Information on breed, sex, date of arrival, performance traits and AM agents used on farm was collected, and the treatment incidence 100 (TI100) indexes per batch were calculated using the defined daily dose animal estimated according to Italian summaries of product characteristics. Factors affecting TI100 indexes were investigated using a cross-classified multilevel model. Farms largely differed in terms of AMU. Males had greater AMU than females (P < 0.001), likely due to their higher susceptibility to disease. Statistically significant differences were observed between seasons of arrival with summer and spring having lower TI100 indexes than winter and autumn (P < 0.001). Indeed, winter is commonly linked to an increase in respiratory diseases in beef cattle. Finally, the TI100it indexes tended to be different among breeds with Blonde d'Aquitaine and Limousine having greater AMU compared to the other breeds. Results of this study provided valuable information on potential risk factors of AMU in beef production which may be useful to address its reduction. For instance, the development of tailored management strategies for specific breeds, targeted approaches to improve the health of males as well as greater care towards batches purchased in winter are possible advice to implement on-farm for a more responsible AM stewardship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
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