Project Type: Faculty fellowship (UW-RF, UW-P)
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Exploring high liver triglyceride content heritability and genetic architecture in early lactation Holstein cows
Bovine fatty liver syndrome (bFLS) is a metabolic disorder in early lactation dairy cows that reduces cow productivity and fertility, as well as increases morbidity risk. Pralle developed a blood…
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Characterizing the behavior and management of dairy cows and neonate calves shortly after birth
Despite advancements in nutrition and epidemiology, dairy cows remain at high risk of disease after giving birth. A main gap in our knowledge is the optimal housing environment for these…
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Measuring the rheological properties of ice cream to predict its mouth-feel sensations
Wisconsin ranks as a major producer of ice-cream and the majority of manufacturers have been in business for over 50 years, many are small family-owned businesses. In order to sustain…
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Analysis and publication of research data on Johne’s Disease in dairy cattle
Johne’s Disease is a chronic wasting disease in cattle and other ruminants caused by a bacterium. Due to the long incubation period of the disease, it can take several years…
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Interactions of fibroblast growth factor and protein metabolism during the postpartum period in lactating dairy cows and their effect on animal health.
The immediate postpartum period in lactating dairy cattle is the time when cows are most vulnerable to metabolic disorders such as ketosis and fatty liver. These disorders often predispose the…
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Seeking solutions to groundwater contamination in agricultural communities: Strategic study of factors influencing contaminant transport from the land surface into aquifers
Groundwater contamination is a threat to dairy farms in Wisconsin for a variety of reasons. This project will study contaminant leaching and transport under different cropping and nutrient management practices.…
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Novel dairy cropping systems to enhance economic and environmental resilience of Wisconsin dairy farms
Cover crops are a best management practice shown to have positive impacts on land and water resources by minimizing soil and nutrient loss from agricultural lands. Cover crop options for…
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UWRF Mann Valley Farm bovine compost research expansion
This project seeks to improve Wisconsin farm profitability and longevity by developing and demonstrating initial research on compost and biochar in a dairy farming system. Outcomes of this study could…
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Improving the health and welfare of dairy calves
This project takes a three-pronged approach to addressing research questions related to calf welfare and health. The first project is to refine a disbudding paste applicator prototype. Although paste is…
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Calf management practices, animal welfare and the social sustainability of the dairy industry
Changes in consumer preferences, the emergence of substitute products, and the increased role of health, environmental and farm animal welfare considerations in food choice poses significant challenges to the US…
