The aim of this study was to determine if exogenous administration of glutamate to young Dorper rams is able to enhance semen quality under long-day photoperiods in northern Mexico (25° north). Dorper rams (n=10) with homogeneous live weight (LW; 56±0.9 kg), body condition score (BCS; 3.2±0.1 units) and scrotal circumference (SC; 31.9±0.38 cm) were randomly divided into two experimental groups and treated with: i) GLUT (n=5; 7 mg kg-1 LW of glutamate, every 3d × 28d, im.) and ii) CONT (n=5; 1 mL of saline, every 3d × 28d, im.). At the end of the experimental period (d28), semen was collected throughout the use of an artificial vagina; different quality and quantity parameters were evaluated. The ANOVA reveled treatment differences (P<0.05) regarding sperm concentration with the largest value observed in the GLUT-rams (4,260±95.9 × 106 cells) regarding to the CONT-rams (2,828±209.2 × 106 cells). Yet, when considering the rest of the response variables which included ejaculation latency (47 ± 15.8 sec), seminal volume (1.1 ± 0.15 ml), total number of ejaculated sperms (4024.5 ± 696.5 × 106 cells), mass motility (2.1 ± 0.3 units) and the percentage of sperms alive (57.5 ± 9.4 %), no statistical differences (P>0.05) were observed between treatments. Results of this study unveils to glutamate as an interesting molecule positively affecting the spermatogenesis process by increasing the sperm concentration of young Dorper rams during photo-inhibitory reproductive schemes. Results also denote interesting outcomes not only to other animal industries but may also embrace translational applications.

Leptin gene is considered as marker of production and reproduction traits in dairy or beef cattle. The aim of this study was to investigate the genetic polymorphism in LEP gene in Hariana cows and their associations with reproduction traits. The blood samples were collected from 62 Hariana cows and analyzed in order to identify LEP/BsaAI (BTA 4, intron 2 and exon 3) genotypes using PCR-RFLP method. The allele frequencies observed were 0.37 and 0.63 for A and B LEP variants and genotypic frequencies were 9.67, 54.8 and 35.5 for AA, AB and BB genotype variants, respectively. Statistical analysis showed that SNP LEP/BsaAI significantly affected gestation period and dry period in analyzed population of cows. Observations of this investigation advocated that leptin is a candidate gene, which affects reproduction traits and might be implemented in breeding strategies to improve the reproductive performance of Hariana cattle breed.

Present study was planned to screen locally available tanniferous tree leaves for their chemical composition, presence of condensed tannins (CT), potential source of CT and suitable leaf meal mixture (LMM) was formulated for incorporation in the densified complete feed blocks (DCF). Two types of blocks (with and without CT; CT-DCF and DCF, respectively) were formulated and prepared. Twelve adult male goats of similar age and body weight (27.51 ± 0.86) were divided in 3 groups (4 in each) in completely randomized block design (CRD) for feeding of 75 days. Goats of T1 (no infection) and T2 (H. contortus infection @ 1500 L3 /goat) were offered DCF blocks while the goats of T3 (H. contortus infection @ 1500 L3 /goat) offered CT-DCF. Initial body weights (kg) of goats did not differ significantly (P<0.05) irrespective of groups, however, final body weight at the end of feeding trial were significantly lower in T2 compared to T1 and T3. Daily feed intake was significantly (P<0.05) lower in T2 as compared to T1 and T3. Intakes of dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, digestible crude protein, digestible organic matter and total digestible nutrients (Kg/100 Kg bwt.) were significantly (P<0.05) higher in T1 and T3 as compared to T2. The faecal egg counts (FECs) per gram faeces were significantly lower (P<0.05) in T3 than that of T2. It may be concluded that CT-DCF serve a promising complementary alternative feeding strategy to control H. contortus infection in goats as socio-economic, farmers and environmental friendly sustainable approach.

Multiplex PCR assay was quick, simple and sensitive method for identification multiple meat species in single PCR reaction. Mitochondrial cytochrome b gene was used as an indicator gene for identification of selected animal species (Buffalo, Sheep, Goat and Chicken) by using multiplex PCR. Sensitivity of the multiplex PCR assay was determined by using 100 ng/μl DNA of meat of Buffalo, Sheep, Goat and Chicken. For the estimation of sensitivity of multiplex PCR assay (34 cycles) made subsequently 10 fold dilution of 100 ng/μl DNA i.e. 100, 10, 1, 0.1, 0.01, 0.001 ng/μl and used in multiplex PCR reaction. In present study the lowest sensitivity of the multiplex PCR assay for all the four selected animal species DNA concentration was fined up to 0.01 ng/μl.

The present study was carried out to investigate the ameliorative effect of vitamin E on Cypermethrin induced hepatotoxicity and oxidative stress. For this purpose, a total of 24 rats were randomly divided into four equal groups: group I used as control and groups II, III and IV were orally treated with Cypermethrin (25 mg/kg body weight), Vitamin E (100 mg/kg body weight) and Cypermethrin (25 mg/kg body weight) plus Vitamin E (100mg/kg body weight), respectively for 45 days. Results showed that on administration of Cypermethrin the mean values of superoxide dismutase (SOD) decreased significantly. Similarly the mean values of reduced glutathione (GSH) and catalase were significantly decreased, while there was significant increase in the mean value of lipid peroxidation (LPO) in liver homogenate . Enzymatic activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in plasma were significantly increased due to Cypermethrin administration. Further, light microscope investigation revealed that Cypermethrin exposure induced histopathological alterations in the liver tissue. On the other hand; treatment with Vitamin E alleviated the harmful effect of Cypermethrin in the group (Group IV). Thus, present study revealed that the presence of Vitamin E could diminish the hepatotoxicity and oxidative stress in male wistar rats.

The study was carried out to study individual test day variability in yield and composition of Surti and Jafarabadi buffaloes milk at day 15 and 60 postpartum (pp). 10 healthy Surti and Jafarabadi buffaloes of each breed were selected at random from Livestock Research Station, Navsari and Cattle Breeding Farm, Junagadh, Gujarat, respectively. Buffaloes were further divided into four different groups for data analysis and comparisons. Overall mean Test day milk yield (TDMY) was found to be steady without any notable significant differences among the four groups of buffaloes. There was increase of 0.88 kg and 0.33 kg in mean Fat and protein corrected test day milk yield (FPCTDMY) with advancement of lactation between day 15 and 60 pp in Surti and Jafarabadi buffaloes, respectively. The mean FPCTDMY of S15 and J15 groups were found to be significantly different (p≤0.05), showing 45.07% higher yield in Jafarabadi buffaloes. The mean fat percent of Jafarabadi buffaloes was significantly (p≤0.05) higher with magnitude of 28.79% over fat% of Surti buffaloes at day 60 pp. The mean SNF% in milk of Jafarabadi buffaloes was 12.27%, significantly (p≤0.05) higher than Surti buffaloes milk at day 15 pp. The mean protein% in milk of Jafarabadi buffaloes was 17.71 and 10.51% significantly (p≤0.05) higher than Surti buffaloes milk at day 15 and 60 pp, respectively. The mean lactose% in milk of Jafarabadi buffaloes was 13.39 % higher than Surti buffaloes milk at day 15 pp, the difference being statistically significant (p≤0.05). As major finding, Jafarabadi buffaloes produced significantly higher milk in terms of FPCTDMY (at day 15 pp) and Fat percent (at day 60 pp) as compared to Surti buffaloes, respectively.

Transtracheal wash technique is commonly employed for collecting aspirates and determining the bacterial agents involved in lower respiratory tract infections by culture examination. In addition, the cytologic analysis of transtracheal wash is also useful for diagnosis and differentiation of lower respiratory diseases of inflammatory and non-inflammatory origin. In present study four horses (two foals and two adult horses) with frank respiratory signs, inflammatory leukogram and radiologic findings suggestive of respiratory involvement were subjected to transtracheal wash collection. Cytology of the stained smears and culture examination revealed Rhodococcus equi in two horses whereas in other two horses, Staphylococcus spp. was isolated. Isolates of Rhodococcus equi were sensitive to erythromycin, amoxicillin, streptomycin, neomycin, norfloxacin and sulfadiazine, whereas Staphylococcus isolates were found sensitive to amoxicillin, ampicillin, doxycycline, gentamicin, neomycin, erythromycin, oxytetracycline, penicillin and streptomycin and resistant to ciprofloxacin and norfloxacin. Two horses (treated with amikacin and penicillin) and one foal (treated with erythromycin and rifampicin) responded to recommended doses of antibiotic therapy and recovered smoothly.

The protective role of green tea extract was studied in neuroendocrine disrupting actions of cadmium. Twenty four weaned Sprague dawley male rats were randomly divided into 4 groups of 6 rats in each .Group 1 served as Sham control, Group 2 was treated with CdCl2 @5mg/kg b.wt. per orally for 3 months, Group 3 was treated with Green tea extract(1.5%) and Group 4 with CdCl2 + green tea extract. The serum testosterone, Tri-iodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxine (T4) hormones were monitored at monthly interval. At the end of 3 months rats were sacrificed and testes were collected for estimation of thio barbituric acid reacting substance (TBARS), reduced GSH, protein carbonyls and sperm count. Before sacrifice, rats were subjected to elevated plus maze (EPM) and morris water maze (MWM). Administration of CdCl2 resulted in decrease of serum testosterone, T4 hormones, testicular GSH, sperm count and increase in serum T3 and testicular TBARS and protein carbonyls while, number of entries and time spent in open arm of EPM increased and the total distance travelled in MWM increased. Treatment with green tea significantly ameliorated (p<0.05) toxic effects of CdCl2 by restoring biochemical and hormonal profile to normal. It is concluded that green tea extract exhibits neuro-endocrine protective property in CdCl2 induced neuroendocrine disruption.

Smallholder pig farming is an important livelihood resource for the poor and tribal people in India. However, the smallholder pig farms are faced with a number of problems. The present study thus aimed to build up the capacity of the smallholder pig farmers by some interventions on knowledge build up, pig variety replacement, shelter management and veterinary services in Tripura, a State of North East India. Two-stage stratified random sample survey on 178 smallholder tribal farmers using pre-designed, semi-structured questionnaires was conducted to collect information before and after the interventions. The majority of the beneficiaries (83.71%) belonged to either low or medium income groups, of which 14.04% of the beneficiaries were the poorest group in the present study. After the shelter management and adoption of improved husbandry practices, a good and very good conditions in and around the pig shelters were recorded among 71.34% and 24.16% of the beneficiaries, respectively. Non- descriptive, local pigs (50%) were replaced by high yielding indigenous or exotic or crossbred pigs in the study area. Previously, 86.51% of the farmers reared pigs for fattening purpose, while 92.13% of the farmers practiced breeding of sows for piglet production after the intervention. The present interventions have brought significant impact (p<0.05) on rearing factors as well as socio-psychological factors. The implementation of ‘piglet production farming system’ augmented food security by 148 days.

This study aim to evaluate the effectiveness of moxidectin (cydectin), ivermectin (Neomec), doramectin (dectomax) and fenbendazole (Panacur) against gastrointestinal nematodes in naturally infected sheep at central sheep breeding farm, Hisar, Haryana. The study includes 50 crossbred sheep divided randomly into five groups (group A, B, C, D and E) of 10 animal in each. Group A, B and C were treated with moxidectin, ivermectin, doramectin (@10 mg/ kg BW) and group D with fenbendazole (@5 mg/ kg BW) and group E served as the untreated control. The therapeutic efficacy was evaluated through determination of epg, body weight gain/loss and Hb concentration. Fecal, body weight and blood were collected before treatment on day 0, and on 7, 14 and 21 day post-treatment. The results showed that the fecal egg count reduction percentage in group A, B, C, D compared to control were 100, 90, 100 and 80 respectively on 21 day post treatment. The body weight of the treated group A, B, C sheep were slightly increased on 21 day post treatment but the differences was non-significantly (P<0.05) when compared with group D and E. The Hb values was significantly higher (p<0.01) between group A, B, C when compared with group D and E on day 21 post treatment. On the basis of these results it was concluded that moxidectin and doramectin proved the most effective against gastrointestinal nematodes of sheep in the present farm, while ivermectin being comparatively less and fenbendazole the least effective.

The aim of this study to find out the effect of ropivacaine and its combination with dexmedetomidine in goats on systolic arterial pressure (SAP), diastolic arterial pressure (DAP), mean arterial pressure (MAP) and electrocardiographic changes. A total of 10 clinically healthy goats of 1-3 years aged and weighing between 10-15 kg were used for the present experiment. All the animals were randomly divided into two groups of five animals each. Ropivacaine (0.75%) @ 1 mg/kgbwt was epidurally administered in the lumbosacral space in group I whereas, the animals of group II were given dexmedetomidine @ 2 μg/kgbwt in combination with ropivacaine hydrochloride (1 mg/kgbwt). Haemodynamic parameters viz. SAP, DAP and MAP revealed non-significant alterations in group I, whereas, group II showed significant decrease (P<0.05) in SAP and MAP at different intervals of observations. Electrocardiogram revealed bradycardia in group II with prolongation of RR intervals, QT intervals and width of QRS complex, whereas, in group I these changes was variables which of little significance. In conclusion, the ropivacaine in combination with dexmedetomidine was synergistically decreasing the systolic arterial and mean arterial pressure within normal physiological limits and transient changes in ECG. Hence ropivacaine along with dexmedetomidine can be used in cardiovascular compromised animals.

Huge losses have been reported due to brucellosis in livestock populations of the country. However, limited studies have been carried out on porcine brucellosis in India. As far as we are aware, this is the first epidemiologic study carried out to determine Brucella species circulating in naturally infected pigs (Sus scrofa) in Punjab, India. The blood samples were collected from 330 pigs slaughtered in small slaughter shops located in 5 districts of Punjab state of India. The samples were screened using Rose Bengal Plate test (RBPT), Standard tube agglutination test (STAT) and ELISA. For molecular identification, conventional PCR was employed on all the seropositive and 30 negative samples. Nine (2.72%), eight (2.42%) and ten (3.03%) samples were found positive using RBPT, STAT and ELISA, respectively. Out of 10 seropositive samples, 4 were found positive using conventional PCR. The results indicate that pigs are infected with Brucella species and policies must be developed for prevention and control of brucellosis in the country.

Comparative gross anatomical studies were conducted on the sternum of peacock, turkey, duck and white breasted waterhen. In peacock and turkey the sternum was quadrilateral strongly concave plate like whereas, in duck and white-breasted waterhen, it was rectangular in shape. The spina sterni was large, quadrilateral in shape with a large foramen at its root in peacock and turkey. In duck and white breasted waterhen the spina sterni was pointed and no foramen was present in it. Processus lateralis cranialis was hamulus shape, directed cranio-laterally and did not extend up-to the spina sterni in peacock, whereas in turkey it was dagger shaped, extended beyond the apex of spina sterni. In duck, the processus lateralis cranialis was hook like and lag behind the spina sterni. In white breasted waterhen it was large, triangular shaped and extended up-to the base of spina sterni. In peacock, two foramen pneumaticum medianum were present on the mid line at the dorsal surface of body of sternum. In duck single median pneumatic foramen was present on the mid line close to anterior border of sternum. The processus thoracicus was absent in duck and white breasted waterhen. The processus caudalis lateralis was long and narrow, widened out in its terminal in peacock and turkey, but in duck and white-breasted waterhen, the process was clasp like. In peacock, turkey and duck this process did not reach up-to the caudal end of the metasternum but in white–breasted waterhen, it reached beyond the caudal end of the metasternum.

The present study was conducted to record the clinico-haematological, biochemical and serological changes in atopic dermatitis in canines amongst the various dermatoses cases presented at the Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex, GADVASU, Ludhiana. Fifty two atopic dermatitis affected dogs were enrolled in the study with chief complaint of intense pruritus, erythema and alopecia. Prevalence of atopy among various dermatoses was 27.90% which mainly occurred during monsoon. Labrador, Toy breeds and German Shephard of 1-3 years of age were affected more. Dogs suffering from atopic dermatitis showed pruritus (100%), erythema (82.69%), alopecia (75.00%), hyperpigmentation (36.00%), scales/crusts (25.00%), lichenification (21.15%) and excoriation (19.60%). The lesions in atopic dermatitis were mainly located at groin (88.40%), abdomen (78.80%), neck (76.90%), perioccular region (75.00%), axilla (71.10%), muzzle and paws (69.20%), ear pinna (67.30%), limbs (48.07%) and tail (7.60%). Haematobiochemical study revealed significant changes in TLC, neutrophilia, eosinophilia and total protein. Serological estimation revealed significant increase in levels of IgE in the serum of atopic dogs.

This study was designed to evaluate the influence of treatment on clinical signs, cortical indices (CI) of radius and ulna (measured radiographically), and serum concentrations of the Calcium (Ca), Phosphorus (P), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and osteocalcin (OC, bone biomarker) in 12 rachitic dogs. The dogs were treated with vitamin D3 @ 20, 000 IU/kg body weight (BW) intramuscularly at a weekly interval along with daily oral Ca supplementation @ 25 mg/kg BW for two months. Dogs were re-evaluated at 30th and/or 60th day post-treatment. Nine apparently healthy dogs were kept as control for comparison of CI and biochemical parameters. Data were analysed by paired and two-sample t-tests. Results showed appreciable improvement in most of the clinical signs within the 1st month of treatment. When compared to control group, at day 0, serum P concentration did not vary significantly (p<0.05), CI and serum concentrations of Ca, 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and OC were lower (p<0.05), while ALP was higher (p<0.05) in rachitic dogs. Moreover, during the treatment period, serum P concentration did not change significantly (p>0.05) while serum Ca increased (p<0.05) and ALP decreased (p<0.05) from the baseline values. There were significant differences between the pre- and post-treatment values of CI and Ca to P ratio (p<0.05). Serum concentrations of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and OC increased post-treatment at day 60 (p<0.05). In this study, treatment with vitamin D3 and Ca stimulated bone remodelling, as demonstrated clinically and by significant increase in the serum concentrations Ca, 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and OC.

A study was conducted with the aim of augmentation of post harvest quality attributes of spent hen breast meat with lemon juice (LM) vis-a-vis ginger extract (GM) marination. Moisture content and water holding capacity (WHC) significantly (P<0.05) increased whereas, protein, fat, ash, cholesterol, muscle fibre diameter, firmness and toughness values significantly (P<0.05) decreased. Percent marinade absorption and pH values were significantly (P<0.05) higher in GM and significantly (P<0.05) lower in LM compared to Con. LM showed significant (P<0.05) reduction in Na and increase in S, Si and Cl whereas GM showed increase in S, Ca, K, Zn, Cu and Fe along with reduction in Na and Cl content when compared to Con. Marination improved firmness and toughness and was corroborated by endomysium degradation seen in Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) studies. Hence, in light of improving the quality attributes of spent hen breast meat; LM and GM could be effectively used.

The objective of the study was to evaluate the nutrient intake and digestibility of four different varieties (HTHM 5101, DHM 117, HM 5 and Shaktiman/900M Gold) of normal and three (HQPM 5, HQPM 7, HQPM 9/ Vivek) HQPM fodder at pre-cob and post-cob stage in lactating sahiwal cows. Thirty-two multiparous Sahiwal cows in early to mid lactation were selected from herd maintained at ILFC, Mathura and were divided into eight group of four animal each. The seeds of experimental varieties were procured from International Maize and Wheat Centre (CIMMYT) New Delhi and the fodders were cultivated under identical conditions in different plots.. Each group was fed with different variety of maize along with basal diet.. Two digestibility trials of seven days were conducted both at the end of feeding of pre and post cob stages of fodder respectively.. The variety DHM 117 have shown higher (P<0.05) DCP and TDN intake at both pre and post-cob stages of the fodder. The digestibility of DM, OM and CP was significantly (P<0.05) higher for DHM 117 whereas, in post cobs stage the normal varieties (DHM 117, HM 5, and HTHM 5101) exhibited higher DM and OM digestibility. However, the digestibility of DM, OM and CP was lower for HQPM 9 and HQPM 5 varieties at both stages respectively. From the present study varietal effect was observed and the variety DHM 117 have shown higher intake and digestibility at both pre and post-cob stages however long-term study with large number of animals is advisable. for recommendation.

The objective of this study was to compare the efficiency of three selected semen processing media: TRIS, TALP and HTF (Human Tubal Fluid) on sperm viability in post-preparation samples to improve flow cytometric analysis. Towards this aim, PI (Propidium Iodide) dye was used to evaluate sperm viability using flow cytometer. Two Cross breed (Karan Fries, KF) and Two Indian breed (Sahiwal, SW) bulls were used for different media optimization. The average sperm viability with TRIS, TALP & HTF media in cross breed (Karan fries) bulls was observed to be 92.09 ±1.93%, 82.61±2.71%, and 79.78±2.94% respectively, whereas, for Indian breeds (Sahiwal) it was 80.03±2.29%, 77.18±1.61 % and 71.32±2.51% respectively. The results revealed that viability of semen obtained from cross breed bulls (KF) is significantly higher in TRIS media (P<0.001) compared to TALP and HTF (P >0.05) whereas for Indian breed bulls (SW), viability of semen in TRIS and TALP is similar with no significant difference (P >0.05). When compared to HTF, semen of SW bull was found to have highest survivability in TRIS (80.03±2.29% vs 71.32±2.51% in TRIS and HTF respectively; P< 0.01). Hence, it can be concluded from the present study that overall TRIS medium is best suited for semen processing and flow cytometric analysis.

Anagallis arvensis is a common weed seen in agricultural fields in Marathwada region of Maharashtra state. This weed contains different poisonous principles like glycosides, volatile oil, saponin (anagallin), tannin, and oxalates. In scarcity of fodder, cattle in some regions had exposure to Anagallis arvensis weed causing oxalic acid toxicity and nephrotic syndrome. Twenty Anagallis arvensis affected cattle were randomly distributed in two groups (Group-I; n=10 and Group-II; n=10). Anagallis arvensis intoxicated cattle of Group-I were subjected to primary therapy of calcium borogluconate @ 450 ml per cattle slow I/V, whereas, Group II cattle were treated with combination of calcium borogluconate @ 450 ml per cattle and lime water (1 kg of lime mixed to make 10 litres of water and one litre of this solution was administered twice a day) therapy. Based on improvement in clinical, haematological, biochemical parameters and recovery; parentral calcium borogluconate and oral lime water therapy along with standard supportive regimen was found highly efficacious in the treatment of Anagallis arvensis toxicity.

Fifty Holstein Friesian (H.F) cattle were screened for Bovine Citrullinaemia (BC) using PCR-RFLP. Blood samples were collected from jugular vein in 2 ml capacity vaccutainers (K2 EDTA) and the DNA was isolated by using whole blood extraction kit. The PCR was performed for amplification of polymorphic region of ASS gene (185 bp) on bovine chromosome 11. The PCR products were digested with Ava II endonuclease enzyme. The normal allele in unaffected cattle produced two fragments of 103 bp and 82 bp. No animal was found carrier for ASS gene. The genotype frequency of normal individuals and the gene frequency of normal allele were found to be one.

The present study was aimed to determine the chemical quality and microbiological safety of some selected milk products retailed in Hisar city of Haryana state. Samples of burfi, paneer, rasogolla and gulabjamun were collected three times from five different sweet shops of Hisar city. The chemical and microbiological analysis of samples were carried out and compared with Indian standard (IS) as given by Bureau of Indian Standard (BIS). Significant (P<0.05) deviation in moisture, titratable acidity and lactose content of burfi from specification were observed. Chemical analysis of paneer, rasogolla and gulabjamun also indicated a variation from the specification. Microbiological safety was assessed by determining standard plate count (SPC) and coliform counts. SPC of rasogolla samples was reported significantly (P<0.05) higher than specification. The coliform count was found under specified limit by BIS. The higher bacterial load indicated poor hygiene practices during preparation and packaging of products and which may cause serious health hazards to consumers.

The present study was carried out with total of 211 eggs with more than 50 eggs from each genetic groups namely Gramapriya × Gramapriya (GP × GP), Vanaraja × Vanaraja (VR × VR), Vanaraja × Gramapriya (VR × GP) and Gramapriya × Vanaraja (GP × VR) to examine the phenotypic correlation between different egg quality traits in different genetic groups. The estimates of phenotypic correlation between egg weight and all the egg quality traits were highly significant (P<0.01), positive and very high in magnitude except the correlation with shape index and yolk index in the VR × GP genetic group. Also in GP × VR genetic group the estimates of phenotypic correlation between egg weight and all the egg quality traits were highly significant (P<0.01), positive and very high in magnitude except with yolk index and yolk height. Highly significant (P<0.01) correlations were observed among the various egg quality traits, except the correlation between egg length and shape index and between yolk width and yolk index where magnitudes were though high and significant but negative in direction. The estimate of correlation in VR × GP cross was positive in general, and highly significant in comparison to other genetic groups.

Dermatitis in general represents the significant percentage of cases in small animal practice so the present study was conducted to record the changes in the oxidative stress parameters in allergic dermatitis in canine cases presented at the Referral Veterinary Hospital of the Faculty of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, R.S. Pura and Central Veterinary Hospital, Talab Tillo in Jammu region. Dogs were divided into four groups, Group A, Group B, and Group C representing bacterial, fungal and parasitic dermatitis and Control group containing normal healthy animals choosen randomly. The number of animals in each group was six. Blood samples were taken in heparinised vials and subjected to antioxidant analysis viz. SOD, Lipid peroxidise, catalase, Gpx and vitamin C. Significant increase in SOD, Lipid peroxidase and decrease in catalase, Gpx and vitamin C level was observed in dermatitis suffering dogs compared with the normal group. The activities of antioxidant enzymes catalase and superoxide dismutase, the first line of antioxidant defense against damaging effects of free radicals, were altered. The alterations in oxidative stress indices were more pronounced in cases with involvement of fungal dermatitis as compared to negative control group. The study shows that dermatitis induces marked changes in the antioxidants levels of dog that may have significance in diagnostic purposes.

The thyroid gland was composed of right and left lateral lobes connected by a narrow isthmus. The location of the isthmus over the trachea varied in male goats which ranged from 4th to 9th tracheal rings. Various biometrical parameters viz. length, width, thickness and weight of the thyroid gland showed a highly significant (P<0.01) increase between various age groups as well as between the thyroids of right and left sides of the body in Assam goats. Accessory thyroid tissue was not observed in any of the male goats. Different biometrical parameters of the isthmus showed an increasing trend with the advancement of age and the variations were found to be highly significant (P<0.01) between various age groups, except in respect of their weight. The activity of LDH in the follicular epithelium of the thyroid gland varied from weak to intense from 4 to 10 months of age (groups-III to VI). However, MDH showed a strong activity in these cells at birth (group-I), which was reduced to moderate in 4 month old kids (group-III) and again elevated in older goats. The enzymic activity of G-6-PDH was variable from mild to moderate in the male goats. The intertubular stroma of the thyroid gland showed no activity for MDH and G-6-PDH in all the age groups. But a mild activity of LDH enzyme was seen in goats from 6 month of age (group-IV) onwards.

Rabbit is a laboratory animal and is used to conduct wide variety of experiments for the welfare of human as well as animals. Liver is the main organ of metabolism and study of xenobiotics is usually carried out in this particular organ. The present study was conducted on six rabbits (non-descript) between 0-3 days of age, procured from laboratory of department of Microbiology, college of Veterinary Science & A.H. Jabalpur. The liver was carefully dissected out and fixed in 10% formalin. After gross measurements tissue samples were processed and 5-6 μm thick paraffin sections were stained with Haematoxylin and Eosin stain and silver impregnation method for histological studies. Mean weight, length, width and height of liver were 16.30±0.37gm, 2.52±0.05 cm, 2.15 ±0.04 cm and 1.07 ±0.03cm respectively. The liver was comprised of two main lobes, right and left, that are separated by a deep median cleft. There were five lobes viz., Left Lateral, Left Medial, Right, Caudate and Quadrate lobes. The extent of the caudate process was bigger than that of the papillary process and the smallest structure in length and height was quadrate lobe. Histologically Mitoses was observed in the liver cells. The cell outline was indistinct and cytoplasm showed extreme variation in appearance as vacuolated, granular, deep staining or pale. There was presence of haematopoietic cells (megakaryocytes) in the stroma of liver.

Classical swine fever (CSF) challenge virus has been adapted in PK-15 cell line from infected splenic suspension of the challenge virus maintained hitherto by pig to pig passages. Confirmation of viral presence was done by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Fluorescent Antibody Technique (FAT). A reasonably good titre of 106.5 TCID50/ml was obtained at 6th passage level. The cell culture adapted challenge virus at a dose of 105.0 TCID50 produced CSF symptoms in pigs from 2nd days post infection (dpi) onwards and succumbed to the infection between 11-12 dpi. Cell culture adapted CSF challenge virus offers advantage to inoculate exact virus particles over the traditional tissue suspension (20% w/v) in potency testing. Adapted challenge virus will replace the use of pigs for propagation of challenge virus; hence follows 4 R’s (replacement, reduction, refinement and rehabilitation) principle. This challenge virus can be attenuated by further serial passages and can be used to develop indigenous live attenuated cell culture based vaccine.

Mastitis is a complex disease with critical outcomes. Subclinical mastitis (SCM) although lacks clinical signs but it has a profound effect on milk production if occurs during early lactation. The purpose of the study, was to investigate the changes that occur in plasma metabolite levels before development of mastitis during early lactation. To evaluate the association, blood samples were collected from 50 pregnant Karan Fries (KF) cows at weekly interval from the day of partum till +90th days of calving or till the occurrence of SCM, whichever was earlier. Positive diagnosis for SCM was confirmed in 15 cows by both modified Californian mastitis test (mCMT) and increased Somatic cell count (SCC) between 4 10 lakh cells/ml within 68 week (56 days) of lactation. Thus 15 SCM cows were compared with 15 healthy ones for plasma metabolic profile till 56th day of lactation. The significantly (P<0.05) higher plasma nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) and plasma (βHydroxy Butyric Acid) βHBA levels of SCM cows over healthy ones before disease occurrence signifies severe metabolic load along with unsuccessful metabolic adaptation from transition, might be a potential factor for causing SCM during early lactation.

The present study was conducted to analyze the physico-chemical and colour properties of emu meat. The leg, back and breast portion along with a uniform mix of these three cuts were taken for evaluation of emu meat quality in respect to various physico-chemical parameters. The pH of breast meat was found significantly (P<0.05) lower than meat from leg and back portion. Water holding capacity of leg meat was significantly (P<0.05) higher than back and breast meat. The breast meat had significantly (P<0.05) higher shear press value (98.99 N) than other portions meat. Myoglobin and metmyoglobin were found from 7.02 to 8.95 mg/g and 28.39 to 45.70 % respectively. The lightness value of breast meat was higher than leg and back meat. Thus, results showed the good acceptability of emu meat in category of red meat and can be an alternative to other meat.

The present study was carried out to assess the efficacy of microtiter method of direct antiglobulin test in diagnosis of Immune Mediated Haemolytic Anaemia in Dogs. Two hundred and fifty eight anaemic dogs with pale/icteric mucous membrane were used for the present study. Initial screening of these dogs was done with saline agglutination test. Forty seven dogs were found positive for saline agglutination test. Whole blood samples of these dogs were used for direct antiglobulin test (DAT). The test was performed using polyvalent antiserum in a 96-well microtiter plate allowing multiple dilutions of antisera. Twenty five dogs were found to be positive for DAT at various titers. The use of microtiter method helped in detecting 8 additional Coombs’ positive dogs which would be negative in standard tube method dilution. The use of this method increases the sensitivity of DAT by overcoming prozone effect.

The study was conducted to evaluate feeding of dried Azolla (Azolla piñnata) and Azolla in combination with exogenous enzymes in commercial broiler poultry birds under complete randomized design. Total 110 day old vancobb broiler chicks were divided into five groups T0,T1, T2, T3 and T4, further each group divided in 2 sub groups (n=11). Group T1 and T3 was given ration containing 2.5 and 5.0 percent dried Azolla without exogenous feed enzyme, where as group T2 and T4 was given ration containing 2.5 and 5.0 per cent dried Azolla with exogenous feed enzyme viz. Phytase and Hizyme. T0 served as standard control diet. Overall growth performance of the dried Azolla fed groups (T1, T2, T3, T4) was found to be similar to the control group (T0) during starter and finisher phase whereas, feed intake per unit gain in live weight was found to be significantly (P<0.05) higher for all the dried Azolla fed groups compared to control group. Further, group T2 offered 2.5 percent substituted dried Azolla supplemented with enzymes exhibited lower feed conversion ratio compared to group T3 offered 5 percent substituted dried Azolla. No effect was recorded in the plasma mineral viz. calcium and phosphorus levels of broilers. Based on the findings it can be concluded that dried Azolla can be safely administered in commercial poultry broiler ration up to 5 percent level without having any deleterious, however inclusion of 2.5 percent Azolla is more effective on the growth performance and biochemical parameters

In the present study, production cost of mutton nuggets formulated with pre-optimized level of flaxseed flour (8%) (T-1), blend of essential oils (0.25%) (T-2) and their selected combination (4% flaxseed flour + 0.25% blend of essential oils) (T-3) were studied in comparison to that of the control. Optimization of levels for flaxseed flour and blend of essential oils was done under different experiments based on sensory attributes and those having sensory status closer to control were selected. It was found that the production cost of 1 kg product was ` 428.16, 392.41, 436.01 and 418.16 for control, flaxseed, essential oil (EO) and combination of flaxseed and essential oil incorporated mutton nuggets, respectively. Thus, it was concluded that formulation with 8% flaxseed flour at the cost of lean meat was most economic among the various other combinations.

Serum analysis was performed during October 2015 to April 2016 to ascertain the prevalence of bluetongue (BT) virus infection among sheep population in Odisha. Samples were collected randomly from apparently healthy sheep from 10 different agro-climatic zones of Odisha. Serum samples were screened for BT virus (BTV) antibodies using indirect enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (i-ELISA) at Division of Virology, IVRI, Mukteswar. Out of 217 samples screened, 60.36% samples were found positive for BTV infection. The prevalence of BTV antibodies in different agro-climatic zones ranged from 38.09% to 100%. This seroprevalence picture of BT, first of its kind, unfolds this viral infection among sheep population in Odisha.