Scientists look for genetic factors that increase milk production
Agricultural scientists spend 4 million US dollars for feeding experiments, looking for cows that can maximize the conversion of feeds into milk, and identifying gene pairs that can exert this effect. The Home Co., Ltd., located in Hamilton, is working with an Australian company to carry out an innovative dairy product for biotech engineering. Both companies have received government funding of US$1 million in the past three years. It is expected that this project will greatly increase the milk production of dairy cows by selecting the most efficient dairy cows. Importantly, this project may help researchers not only find the genes that control the conversion of feeds into milk with the greatest efficacy of dairy cows, but also confirm the characteristics of any cow and increase milk production through selective breeding, the company's general manager said. Once understood, scientists are expected to probably also advise farmers about feed and special sensitive substances such as temperature and oxygen in environmental factors, he said. Comparing genetically similar cows that are suitable for different environments, researchers may be able to discern between genetic and environmental factors. Moreover, it is also possible to estimate the rearing system. "The purpose of this proposal is to understand whether there is a huge genetic gap in the metabolism of dairy cows in very similar states," he said. It is expected that milk production will be measured to assess efficiency, but other characteristics such as productivity and health will also be monitored. The newly-acquired mapping of the cow's genome will help researchers link milk production to other characteristics, he said. Identifying small differences in the genome is also possible, known as a single nucleoside polymorphism, which can alter genes enough to make a cow resistant to a specific disease or turn to another feature.
The automatic massage foot bath machine is a device that uses water and massage rollers to provide a relaxing foot massage. It usually has a basin filled with water and has built-in massage rollers that move and massage the feet. The machine may also have other functions, such as heat therapy, air bubbles, and vibration. Users place their feet in the basin and the machine provides a soothing massage that helps relieve tension and improve foot circulation. Some automatic foot massage machines also come with removable attachments for additional massage options.