This study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence of antibodies against Newcastle disease virus (NDV), Chicken infectious anemia virus (CIAV) and Avian influenza virus (AIV) in indigenous chickens in Grenada, West Indies. Indigenous chickens are kept for eggs and meat for either domestic consumption or local sale. These birds are usually kept in the backyard of the house with little or no shelter. The mean size of the flock per household was 14 birds (range 5-40 birds). Blood was collected from 368 birds from all the six parishes of Grenada and serum samples were tested for antibodies against NDV, CIAV and AIV using commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. The seroprevalence of antibodies against NDV, CIA and AI was 66.3% (95% CI; 61.5% to 71.1%), 59.5% (95% CI; 54.4% to 64.5%) and 10.3% (95% CI; 7.2% to 13.4%), respectively. Since indigenous chickens in Grenada are not vaccinated against poultry pathogens, these results indicate exposure of chickens to NDV, AIV and CIAV Indigenous chickens are thus among the risk factors acting as vectors of pathogens that can threaten commercial poultry and other avian species in Grenada

An experimental study was conducted on formulation, preparation and production of two types of multi nutrient blocks (MNB) with and without tanniferous leaf meal mixture (LMM) for supplementation of goats fed on wheat straw based diet. The condensed tannins (CT) containing multi nutrient blocks (MNB-CT) and MNB were formulated, prepared and developed where MNB-CT had CT containing LMM of Psidium guajava and Eugenia jambolana in 70:30 ratio while MNB had no CT source. Other ingredients used included mustard oil cake, molasses, urea, limestone powder, di-calcium phosphate, mineral mixture, wheat bran and common salt were 875, 825, 181.25, 175, 193.75, 100, 112.5, 37.5 and 487.5, 825, 212.5, 162.5, 200, 100, 62.5, 37.5 (g/block), respectively in MNB and MNB-CT blocks. Nutrient composition (g/ block) of MNB and MNB-CT for organic matter, crude protein, ether extract, total ash, acid insoluble ash, calcium and phosphorus were 1939, 867.25, 17.25, 561, 20.5, 140.75, 62.25 and 1965.5, 861.75, 23.75, 534.5, 21.75, 130.75, 59 g, respectively. The MNB-CT blocks had good binding ability, compactness, hardness, less brittle and remained fit for licking to the animals compared to MNB blocks. The acceptability and intakes of both types of blocks were equally good. The LMM incorporation in MNB-CT reduced the cost of production as well as deworming in H. contortus infected goats so it directly curtailed the cost of goat rearing. Therefore, farmers could be benefited by supplementing MNB-CT blocks to improve health and productive performance of goats in sub-tropical region of Jammu (J & K), India.

The aim of this study was to document the response of lactating Jersey cows to feeding of formaldehyde treated oil cakes of rapeseed and cottonseed on milk yield and composition at various stages of lactation and parity. Formaldehyde treatment of oil cakes was performed at 1% of crude protein, and these treated cakes were used in preparing treatment concentrate mixture. The experiment was carried out for 40 days using 27 lactating Jersey cows differing in parity 1-3, 4-6 and ≥7 with different stages of lactation i.e. early (1-3 m), mid (4-6 m) and late (7-9 m) in each lactation groups. The animals were grouped into Control and Treatment. For first 10 days, cows of Control group were offered with a control concentrate and thereafter same animals were grouped as Treatment group and fed the same concentrate having both the protein meals treated with formaldehyde, along with ad libitum access to barley green fodder and wheat straw. The milk yield and its component yield were decreased linearly as lactation advanced and the differences were significant (P<0.05) between early and late lactation. The highest increment (P<0.05) in milk yield was noted in early lactation (0.69 kg/d) and least during late lactation (0.56 kg/d). Milk SNF yield was improved (P<0.05) up to the tune of 40 g/d in mid lactation cows only. With respect to parity, the highest (P<0.05) milk yield was observed in 1st-3rd parity and lowest after 7th parity, while milk fat% followed the reverse trend upon feeding formaldehyde treated oil cakes, while other parameters like fat and SNF percentage did not differ due to treatment. Furthermore, milk fat yield was increased (P<0.05) to the extent of 50 g/d and 20 g/d in 1st-3rd and above 7th parity cows, respectively. It was concluded that feeding of concentrate mixture containing formaldehyde treated oil cakes (rapeseed and cottonseed) economically improved yield of milk and milk components. Furthermore, the treatment effect was more pronounced during early lactation and in lower (1-3) parity Jersey cows.

The present study was designed to determine the occurrence of C. jejuni and C. coli in chicken meat, chicken offal, chevon and milk samples from Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh (India) to elucidate the role of these products in transmission of Campylobacter to humans. The samples were examined using both cultural as well as polymerase chain reaction based detection method. Out of 280 samples examined, 29 (10.36%) samples were found positive by cultural method, where as 68 (24.29%) samples showed presence of Campylobacter species by polymerase chain reaction. All the samples depicted positive by culture were also found positive by PCR. The highest occurrence rate was observed in chicken meat (46%), followed by chicken offal (20%), chevon (18%) and milk (3.75%). The results depicted the superior efficacy of PCR for rapid screening of samples owing to its high rapidity, specificity and automation potential. The study suggested the potential of transmission of Campylobacter species to humans due to the consumption of raw or contaminated meat or milk.

The present study was aimed to assess the effect of vitamin E supplementation on GH-insulin–IGF-1 axis in Murrah buffaloes during transition period. The Murrah buffaloes (n = 12) were selected during their late gestation from National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) livestock herd and divided randomly into two groups, comprising of 6 each. Buffaloes of group I were given only the control diet, while group II were supplemented with 2000 IU/day/head vitamin E along with control feed. Blood sample were collected from each buffalo at weekly interval from day -21 to day +21 relative to parturition by jugular vein- puncture. Growth hormone (GH) -IGF-1 and insulin were quantified by bovine specific ELISA test kit. The results revealed non significant difference in circulatory concentration of insulin and GH during transition period between the two groups. However, insulin and IGF-I magnitude of decline was significantly greater in Group I. It was concluded that decline in the levels of these hormones during transition period was a physiological phenomenon that was associated with negative energy balance. Dietary supplementation of Vitamin E had no direct influence on peripheral profiles of these hormones during transition period

The purpose of this study was to carried out seroepidemiological study of leptospirosis in clinically ailing cattle and buffaloes of South Gujarat where cases of leptospirosis in human is increase every monsoon since last decade. To determine clinical pattern of bovine Leptospirosis in this area a total of 130 serum samples of cattle and buffaloes were collected randomly from different age groups of cattle and buffaloes of either sex reared in this area and tested by microscopic agglutination test (MAT) using different serovars of Leptospira spp. The prevalence of leptospiral antibodies was detected in 15.84 and 17.24 % in clinically ailing cattle and buffaloes, respectively. In clinically ailing seropositive cattle history of mastitis/agalactia/oligolactia was recorded in maximum number of cases (24.00 %) followed by abortion (20.00 %), fever (14.81%), repeat breeding (11.76%) and anorexia (5.88%) in different combinations. In seropositive clinically ailing buffaloes the clinical signs included mastitis (30.00%), fever (16.66 %) and abortion (14.28%). In clinically ailing cattle highest prevalence was noted in animals above 4 years of age (20.00%) followed by 1-4 years of age (4.76%) whereas in clinically ailing buffalo seropositivity was recorded only in above 4 years of age (20.00%). The most prevalent serovar pomona has been reported from different clinical conditions in both cattle and buffaloes. Based on present and few past investigation reports the sero-epidemiological condition of bovine leptospirosis that need due attention as South Gujarat region is endemic zone for leptospirosis.

Meat is an important and common source of animal protein in the NE (North-Eastern) states as seen from the expenditure estimates which shows that 15 per cent in rural areas and 18 per cent in urban areas is devoted to meat out of the total food expenditure. The study is based on NSSO data on household consumption expenditure in 2009-10 pertaining to the 66th round. The study showed that the proportion of meat out of total food expenditure is almost two to three times more than the national average. Manipur is an exception where the rural households’ proportionate expenditure is more than urban households. Chevon/mutton and chicken have lesser supply than demand in most NE states. Beef and pork are relatively cheaper in rural areas and therefore consumed more whereas urbanization may be the factor that influence liking for chevon/mutton consumption in urban areas. Export policy, Infrastructure development, feed sector, and establishment of modern slaughter houses are some of the issues which need attention of the government to sustain meat consumption in the region.

An in vitro study was conducted to evaluate the optimum roughage to concentrate ratio in complete rations using sorghum stover (SS) as a roughage source since it is a main feed resource for urban and peri-urban dairies. Eight complete rations were prepared with roughage (R) to concentrate (C) ratio of 100R:0C to 30R:70C. In vitro gas production (ml) at 24 h incubation, in vitro organic matter digestibility and metabolizable energy, truly digestible organic matter and ammonia nitrogen production were increased linearly (P<0.01) as the proportion of concentrate was increased in the ration. Significantly higher (P<0.01) total volatile fatty acid concentration was observed in 50R:50C, 40R:60C and 30R:70C compared to other rations. Significantly (P<0.01) highest partitioning factor, microbial biomass production and efficiency of microbial biomass production were recorded at 60R:40C ratio followed by 50R:50C. Therefore, the present study suggested that SS can be included in complete rations for ruminants at the level of 60 per cent for economic milk and meat production.

Neutrophil apoptosis is a dynamic process following their recruitment to the site of infection that varies depending upon the type of challenge. The proposed study was designed to elucidate the role of classical mediators of apoptosis in neutrophils isolated from milk samples of crossbred Karan Fries cows suffering from subclinical (SCM) and clinical mastitis (CM). Milk samples were collected from 12 KF cows suffering from clinical mastitis caused by Staphylococcal aureus. Clinical mastitis was confirmed on the basis of CMT scoring, bacteriological evaluation, gross and morphological changes in milk and by counting milk somatic cells (SCC). Milk Poly Morpho-Nuclear Cells (PMNs) were isolated and apoptosis was studied. Neutrophil apoptosis was evaluated by studying the exteriorization of phosphatidyl serine, mitochondrial transmembrane potential, Caspase 3, 7, 8 and 9 by fluorescent microscopy. Results showed that apoptosis in neutrophils were mediated through exteriorization of membrane phosphatidyl serine; increased mitochondrial transmemebrane potential and activation of caspases 3, 7, 8 and 9 like other somatic cells. From the study, it was evident that neutrophils undergo induced apoptosis during Staphylococcal mastitis. The findings of the study provide an insight into the molecular basis of neutrophil apoptosis and form a basis to enhance the host immunity by the process of apoptosis modulation to combat the infections caused by the pathogen. The study provided a base for future studies by which neutrophil apoptosis can be modulated so as to enhance the phagocytic clearance of the microbes from the site of infection.

Ninety, day old broiler chicks were arranged into 5X3X6 pattern to investigate the effect of exclusion of Cobalt, Iron and Copper from the mineral mixture. Five dietary groups (T1 to T5) were assigned basal diets containing 2800 kcal ME/kg and 22% CP (Starter) and 20% (Finisher) for a total duration of 6 weeks. The chicks in T1 were fed commercial mineral mixture, T2 were supplemented with mineral mixture prepared with laboratory reagent grade minerals while chicks of T3, T4 and T5 were fed laboratory reagent grade mineral mixture without Cobalt, Iron and Copper, respectively. No significant difference was observed in weight gain, feed intake, FER and PI of broilers fed various mineral supplements. Significantly (p<0.05) higher nitrogen and energy retention (%) was recorded in broilers (T5) fed mineral supplement without Copper compared to broilers fed (T1) commercial mineral supplement (77.18±0.28 vs. 70.50±2.70 and 81.86±1.04 vs. 75.71±2.36). It was concluded that Cobalt,

A series of studies were conducted to assess the effect of increasing environmental temperatures on redox status and endocrine responses in crossbred cattle under simulated conditions. In present study four non-lactating crossbred cattle were exposed to 25, 30, 35 and 40°C temperature with relative humidity of 40-50% in psychrometric chamber for 5 hours/day from 10:00 to 15:00 hours for 21 days. The physiological responses, feed and water intake were recorded and blood samples were collected at 15:00 hours on day 1, 6, 11, 16 and 21 of the experiment. Blood serum was harvested to estimate superoxide dismutase activity (SOD), reactive oxygen species (ROS), tri-iodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4) and cortisol concentration. The temperature exposures of 25 and 30°C did not affect physiological responses, feed intake, water intake, T3, T4, cortisol concentration and SOD activity in serum. The dry matter intake (DMI)/day decreased significantly (p<0.05) whereas water intake, respiratory rate and rectal temperature increased progressively at 35 and 40°C as compared to 25 and 30°C temperature exposure. The serum ROS level increased progressively with increase in exposure temperature and a corresponding increase in serum SOD activity was also observed up to a temperature exposure of 35°C however, SOD activity declined at 40°C exposure. Serum T4 concentration decreased whereas cortisol level increased significantly at 35 and 40°C exposure as compared to 25 and 30°C temperature exposure. It can be concluded from the present study that the crossbred animals can readily adapt to a temperature exposure of 25 and 30°C and can acclimatize up to 35°C with compensatory physiological, biochemical and endocrine changes but fail to do so at the temperature exposure of 40°C.

Present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of concrete or rubber surface, in combination with open yard with either brick paving or sand bed on milk production and composition in crossbred dairy cows under loose housing system. Total 20 crossbred cows, were assigned to four treatment groups (5 per group) viz. Control group (T0): Concrete floor (in covered feeding area) + Brick paving (in loafing area); Treatment 1 (T1): Concrete floor + Sand bed; Treatment 2 (T2): Rubber mat + Sand bed; Treatment 3 (T3): Rubber mat + Brick paving. Milk yield did not differed significantly (P>0.05) among groups, but it was higher in T2 followed by T3, T0 (control) and T1. Fat %, SNF % and Total Solids % were almost similar (P > 0.05) in all the groups. Therefore, it can be concluded that provision of rubber mat or sand floor alone does not affect milk production and composition. However, floor combination of rubber mat and sand bed in loose houses showed higher production.

To study the biometry of genital organs of Bakharwal goats, twenty reproductive tracts were collected from slaughterhouses of Jammu during October 2014 to December 2014. Based on the age of slaughtered animals, the reproductive tracts were divided into two groups (group A, age between 12-18 months and group B, age between 24-30 months). For cervix length and width and thickness, the average measurements of group A were 4.31 ± 0.02 cm, 1.24 ± 0.03 cm, 0.54±0.02 and in group B were 4.44 ± 0.03 cm, 1.37 ± 0.01 cm, 0.61± 0.02, respectively. Similarly in group A, the average size of body of uterus was 3.31± 0.03 cm, 1.53 ± 0.01cm, 0.56 ± 0.02 cm and in group B, 3.47 ±0.11 cm, 1.60 ± 0.03 cm, 0.64 ± 0.01 cm. The average size of the right horn of uterus in group A was 13.98 ± 0.39 cm, 1.83 ± 0.02 cm, 0.57 ± 0.03 cm and the size of the left horn of uterus was 14.62 ± 0.30 cm, 1.02 ± 0.04 cm, 0.45 ±0.03 cm while the average size of the right horn of uterus in group B was 15.51 ± 0.19cm, 1.90 ± 0.02cm, 0.62 ± 0.26 cm and the size of the left horn of uterus was 15.6 ± 0.35 cm, 1.01 ± 0.04 cm, 0.57 ± 0.02 cm for length, width and thickness, respectively. Mean length of right and left fallopian tube in group A was 18.18 ± 0.25 cm, 17.70 ± 0.28 cm while in group B was 19.11 ± 0.10 cm, 17.90 ± 0.20 cm. In group A the average size of the right ovary was 1.98 ± 0.05cm, 1.00 ± 0.04 cm, 0.66 ± 0.03 cm while in left ovary 1.88 ± 0.26 cm, 1.15 ± 0.15, 0.64 ± 0.04 cm for length, width and thickness, respectively. Similarly, in group B the average size of the right ovary was 2.11± 0.05 cm, 1.10 ± 0.05 cm, 0.60 ± 0.02 cm while in left ovary 2.00 ± 0.02 cm, 1.30 ±0.11 cm. 0.66 ± 0.03 cm, for length, width, and thickness, respectively. It was concluded that the size of genital organs of Bakharwal goat increases with age during 12-18 months to 24-30 months of age.

A total of 350 samples 50 each from raw poultry meat, poultry cloacal swabs and human diarrheic cases, besides 200 eggs were processed for the isolation of Salmonella. Effect of varying temperature and pH on growth of Salmonella isolates was evaluated by growing the organism in Brain Heart Infusion Broth at 4, 10, and 30°C with pH values of 4.5, 5.5 and 6.5. At 10°C, the mean generation time of the isolates at pH values of 4.5, 5.5 and 6.5 was 44.23 ± 0.44, 15.51 ± 0.08 and 10.23 ± 0.10 hrs, respectively, while at 30°C, the generation time of the isolates at pH values of 4.5, 5.5 and 6.5 was 126.10 ± 0.68, 59.96 ± 0.14 and 36.22 ± 0.07 min, respectively. No growth observed at 4°C, at any given pH value. As the temperature and pH were lowered, significant increase in generation time of the organism was observed.

Colibacillosis of newborn calves is characterised by rapid onset, watery white or yellowish diarrhoea and high mortality. In the present therapeutic study the efficacy of four highly sensitive in-vitro drugs viz., ciprofloxacin, gentamicin, neomycin and co-trimoxazole was evaluated. Ciprofloxacin at the dose rate of 4mg/kg body weight was found 100 per cent effective, gentamicin at the dose rate of 4mg/kg body weight was found 83.33 per cent effective where as neomycin @10mg/kg body weight and co-trimoxazole @ 25 mg/kg body weight were found 66.67 per cent effective in this study. Treatment regimen used in four different groups of clinical cases of colibacillosis indicated ciprofloxacin being most effective drug followed by gentamicin, neomycin and co-trimoxazole which was comparable with in-vitro studies.

Fresh semen of 10 Murrah buffalo bulls of two different age group viz. 4-5 years and 8-9 years having five bulls in each, were evaluated for total viable bacterial load during three different seasons (summer, rainy and winter).Mean bacterial load in fresh ejaculates of buffalo bulls (three ejaculates per bull in each season) was measured using standard plate count method and expressed as mean (± SEM) CFU per ml of semen. Non significant (P > 0.05) but visible differences of mean bacterial load in bubaline semen was recorded between seasons. Comparatively higher bacterial count in bubaline semen was observed during summer season (18000 ± 4667 CFU/ml) as compared to rainy (16000 ± 3055 CFU/ml) and winter season (12000±3266 CFU/ml). Likewise, nonsignificant (P>0.05) seasonal influence was recorded over bacterial load in semen from bulls of two different age groups. However, appreciable variation was noticed within seasons. During summer season, younger bulls (aged between 4-5 years) showed higher bacterial load (22000±8000 CFU/ml) as compared to older bulls (14000±5099 CFU/ml) and vice versa during winter season. Variations recorded during present study was due to significant variation (P<0.05) among individual bulls within and between seasons. Bacterial load in bubaline semen during summer season was negatively correlated with that during rainy (r = -0.296) and winter season (r = -0.19), however positive correlation (r = 0.423) was noticed between rainy and winter season. In conclusion, the changing seasons during the period of study produced nonsignificant effect on microbial quality of the spermatozoa in Murrah bulls.

The present study was aimed at diagnosis of brucellosis in cattle and buffalo using RBPT and iELISA and comparing the two tests. The animals belonged to a cattle shelter house (Gaushala). Out of 303 sera samples collected, 125 (41.25 %) were positive by RBPT and among 125 positive samples, 2 were of male and other 123 were of female animals. On the other hand the results of ELISA were tripartite and 142 (46.86%), 22 (07.26 %) and 139 (45.54%) samples were found as positive, moderately positive and negative, respectively. Overall by combining the both type of positive results, 164 (54.12%) samples were found positive by iELISA. On herd level, this was much higher than reports from most of earlier workers. On taking iELISA as reference test, the sensitivity and specificity of RBPT were calculated as 80.78% and 100%, respectively and the level of agreement between two tests was 0.871. But three categories of variations were observed between two tests, i.e. eighteen samples were positive in RBPT but negative in ELISA, 49 were negative in RBPT but positive in ELISA and 12 were negative in RBPT but moderately positive in ELISA.

Thermal stress alters the normal body homeostasis and causes severe detrimental effects on production and productivity of animals. Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are highly conserved family of proteins that are ubiquitously expressed in animal’s body during thermal stress. Out of all the members present in this family, HSP70 is regarded as the most significant indicator of thermal stress. The present study was therefore conducted to demonstrate the relative mRNA expression pattern of HSP70 gene in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) during different seasons in Sahiwal cows (Bos Indicus). Apparently healthy, non - lactating and non - pregnant sahiwal cows (above two years of age) were taken for study (n = 6). Blood samples were collected thrice i.e. once in December-January (THI <72), between February - March (THI = 72) and June (THI > 72). Blood sample collected in thermo - neutral zone (THI = 72) was taken as control. Quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) study was undertaken to investigate the variation in relative mRNA expression profile of HSP70 gene during different seasons. Glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) was used as a housekeeping gene. The relative expression values of HSP70 during summer season were found statistically significant in comparison to winter. These results suggest that HSP70 gene expression varies with THI and this variation may play an imperative role in conferring thermo tolerance against heat stress during different seasons of a year.

The aim of present study was to investigate the detection of virulence factors encoded Salmonella enterotoxin (stn) and plasmid encoded fimbriae (pef) genes in isolates of Salmonellae isolated from chevon and chicken meat samples collected from different districts of Chhattisgarh. A total of 32 Salmonella isolates were recovered, among them 18 and 14 isolates were recovered from chevon and chicken meat samples, respectively. All the Salmonella isolates were tested for the presence of virulence associated genes viz., stn and pef by using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) protocols, standardized separately for each gene. All 32 (100%) Salmonella isolates were found to carry the enterotoxin determinant stn gene where as none of the Salmonella isolate was found positive for pef gene, indicating that the stn gene is widely distributed among the Salmonella isolates irrespective of source of sample, species, serovars and location. The stn gene in Salmonella was found to be highly conserved. Thus, stn gene may be used as a target gene for detection of Salmonellae in different types of field samples.

This study was conducted to explicate the association of semen attributes with seminal plasma proteins of buffalo bulls. Total 108 ejaculates were collected from six sexually mature adult Bhadawari buffalo bulls aged 2-4 years in three seasons (rainy, winter and summer) of a year by using artificial vagina. Immediately after collection, semen samples were divided into two aliquots. One aliquots of neat semen were evaluated for ejaculate volume (EV), sperm concentration (SC), mass motility (MM), progressive motility (PM), percent live-dead (LD) count, percent Hypo-osmotic swelling test (HOST), and percent acrosomal integrity (AI). The other semen aliquots were centrifuged for harvesting the seminal plasma. SDS-PAGE was performed for separation of seminal plasma proteins and gel images were analysed to determine molecular weights, IOD of protein bands and relative protein fractions (protein %) using the Gel doc system. The correlation results revealed positive correlation of SC with 70 and 72 kDa proteins while negative correlation with 86 kDa protein. The PM showed positive correlation with 24.5, 70 and 72 kDa proteins and negative correlation with 84 and 86 kDa proteins and AI showed positive correlation with 18.5, 24.5, 44.5, 70, and 72 kDa and negative correlation with 20 and 84 kDa proteins. The results of correlation among seminal plasma proteins showed positive correlation of 24.5 kDa with 35, 44.5, 70 and 72 kDa and negative correlation with 86 kDa proteins. The 70 and 72 kDa proteins showed positive correlation with 18.5 and 24.5 kDa and negative correlation with 20, 84 and 86 kDa proteins. The 84 kDa proteins showed negative association with 24.5, 70 and 72 kDa proteins while 86 kDa proteins showed negative association with 24.5, 35, 36.5, 70 and 72 kDa proteins. In conclusion, though significant correlations among seminal plasma proteins and semen characteristics were detected, yet it is noteworthy that correlation does not mean cause. Therefore, more refined studies that allow higher-resolution separation of seminal plasma proteins and more detailed characterization of those proteins, as well as investigation of their physiological role, will further advance knowledge in this area.

The animal protein sources are rich in essential amino acids but transmission of zoonotic diseases and their high cost limits its use. Therefore it becomes necessary to supplement the synthetic amino acids in plant proteins based broilers diet. A study was conducted in a 3 × 2 factorial arrangement of three levels of taurine (0, 0.025%, and 0.05%) and two levels of methionine (0 and 0.15%) to determine the effect of taurine and methionine supplementation on leukocyte profile of broiler chickens. The study showed significantly (P < 0.01) increased total leukocyte count (TLC) in taurine and methionine supplemented treatments. As the taurine level increased in the diet heterophil and eosinophil count significantly (P < 0.01) increased whereas, lymphocyte and monocyte count significantly (P < 0.01) decreased . The result reveals that graded level of dietary taurine and methionine plays significant role in reducing the oxidative damage by altering the leukocyte profile.

The study was aimed at evaluating the quality of burfi enriched with dried date. Three samples of khoa-dried date blends viz. T1 (90:10), T2 (85:15), T3 (80:20) and control (T0) burfi was analyzed for physicochemical parameters and sensory attributes. The physicochemical composition of burfi was affected due to addition of dried date. The moisture, fat and protein contents decreased with increase in the amount of dried date while that of total solids and total sugar content recorded an increasing trend. Based on sensory analysis, the dried date burfi prepared with 15% dried date in treatment T2 scored highest sensory score. The cost of production of highly acceptable burfi enriched with dried date (T2) was `. 156.50 per kg.

The objectives of the present study was to standardize the protocol for production of functional pork loaves and to assess the economics of production of the developed product.Four treatments were prepared with incorporation of inulin powder (IP) as fibre source viz. Control (0% IP; C), 1% (T1), 2% (T2) and 3% (T3) by replacing the amount of lean meat in the product formulation. Different batches were steam cooked at 110 ºC for 40 minutes, cooled, sliced and evaluated for different quality parameters. The cooking yield and emulsion stability improved with the increase in level of incorporation of inulin. The cost of production also increased with increase in inulin level in product and calculated as highest in T3. The net profit for the control and 1% IP enriched pork loaves was highest whereas lowest for 3% IP pork loaves. The break-even point was estimated on the basis of value ` marketed product and calculated as ` 1195188.00 for control whereas ` 1331576.00 for T3 and cost-benefit ratio 35% for control and T1. Net Income (`/month) after repayment of loan was highest for control and T1 as ` 77533.00 and lowest for T3 70033.00. The estimated details of economics of the developed product concluded that there is marginal increase about 1% in the price of functional pork loaves and this venture can a successful enterprise.

Twelve buffalo calves of either sex presented to the college clinic with various surgical conditions were utilized to study the effect of continuous intravenous infusion of propofol after premedication with medetomidine – pentazocine and midazolam – pentazocine. The animals were divided into two groups of six animals each. Group I animals were premedicated with Medetomidine @ 2.5 µg/kg b.wt. – pentazocine @ 0.5 mg/kg b.wt IV and Group II animals received midazolam @ 0.25 mg/kg b.wt. – pentazocine @ 0.5 mg/kg b.wt. IV.. Propofol was given @ 4 mg/kg b.wt. IV after premedication and maintained by continuous intravenous infusion of propofol @ 0.4 mg/kg b.wt. in 5 % dextrose normal saline in both groups. Induction quality was excellent, smooth and attained sternal recumbency rapidly without struggling in both groups. Anaesthetic character, Physiological & haematobiochemical parameters were studied at 0, 5,10,15,30 and 60 minutes following anaesthetic injections. No significant changes were recorded in both the groups. ECG studies did not reveal any abnormalities except slight variations in the amplitude of P wave, T wave and QRS complex in both groups. The study suggests that medetomidine – pentazocine premedication with continuous intravenous infusion of propofol provided better surgical anaesthesia and was compatable and safe in buffalo calves.

The clinical investigation was done on 45 dogs suffering from gastroenteritis. The affected dogs showed diarrhoea, vomition, depression, anorexia and dehydration. Significant decrease in plasma glucose, albumin, potassium and chloride were observed. The affected dogs were randomly divided into three groups. In group-I (n = 15), levofloxacin was given along with antiemetic, vit B-complex and fluid therapy. In group-II (n = 15) and group-III (n = 15), cefotaxime and ceftriaxone were used instead of levofloxacin. The present investigation showed that therapeutic regimen in group-I (levofloxacin) was most effective for the treatment of gastroenteritis as compared to group-II (cefotaxime) and group-III (ceftriaxone).

Two hundred and forty (n=240), day-old broiler chicks of strain ‘cobb400’ were divided equally into 3 groups of 80 chicks each in group to observe the effect of probiotics (Protexin) supplementation on growth performance and economics of feeding in broilers. Different dietary treatments were T1–basal diet without probiotics supplementation (control), T2–T1 + probiotics supplementation (50 g/ton of feed) and T3– T1 + probiotics supplementation (100 g/ton of feed). Average daily body weight gain (BWG) was significantly higher (P≤0.01) in T3 compared to T2 and T1 (41.63 ± 0.25 g vs 39.48 ± 0.15, 39.99 ± 0.10). Feed intake during starter, finisher and overall study period remained statistically (P≥0.05) at par. Feed conversion ratio was significantly (P≤0.01) improved with probiotics supplementation @100 g/ton of feed compared to control. Dressing percentage and organ weights (% Body Weight) remained statistically (P≥0.05) similar. Mortality (%) was lower for group T3 (1.25) compared to T2 (3.75) and T1 (5.00) but differences were non-significant (P≥0.05). The return over feed cost was significantly (P≤0.01) higher in T2 (`30.99) compared to T1 (` 27.82) and control (` 26.45). The profit per bird over control in group T2 and T3 was ` 1.37 and ` 4.54, respectively. Thus, the dietary supplementation of probiotics at 100 g/ton of feed significantly enhanced body weight gain along with better feed conversion ratio and profit without any adverse effect on feed intake, mortality and carcass characteristics.

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effects of three different fillers i.e. rice flour, tapioca starch and potato starch, on the physico-chemical and sensory attributes of chicken meat caruncles, so as to find the best filler for chicken snacks. Four different batches were prepared as follows - control (35% refined wheat flour), T-1 (22.75% refined wheat flour + 12.25% rice flour), T-2 (14.00% refined wheat flour + 21.00% tapioca starch) and T-3 (35.00% potato starch). All the variants were assayed for physico-chemical, proximate composition, texture profile, colour profile and sensory attributes. The cooking yield (%) was significantly higher (P<0.05) in T-2 batch than control and other treated groups. There was continued and significant (P<0.05) increase in Water Absorption Index (WAI) of all the samples from control to T-3. In texture profile, hardness was significantly higher (P<0.05) in T-3 batch than control, T-1 and T-2. Adhesiveness, adhesive force and stringiness remained non-significant (P>0.05) in control and treated batches. L* value increased non-significantly in all the treated samples due to addition of fillers. Moisture (%) was significantly higher (P<0.05) in T-1 followed by T-2, control and T-3. Among the sensory attributes, colour/appearance, crispiness, after-taste, meat flavour intensity and overall acceptability were significantly higher (P<0.05) in T-2 (tapioca starch) batch than control, T-1 and T-3 batches. Hence 60% tapioca starch could be used in place of refined wheat flour along with 65% spent hen meat for the development of good quality chicken meat caruncles.

A cross section study was carried out from June 2013 to May 2014 on a total of 110 lactating cows of rural, peri-urban and suburban regions of Jaipur District of state of Rajasthan, for sub clinical mastitis by using California Mastitis Test (CMT), White side test (WST), Surf Field Mastitis Test (SFMT) and Somatic cell count (SCC). Prevalence of subclinical bovine mastitis in animal level was recorded as 67.27, 64.55, 63.64 and 74.55 % by CMT, WST, SFMT and SCC, respectively whereas 39.55, 38.86, 37.95 and 45.23 % by CMT, WST, SFMT and SCC, respectively in the level of quarters. Staphylococcus species (46.3%) occupied the prime position among the bacterial isolates followed by Streptococcus species (9.76%), Escherichia coli (6.1%), mixed growth (32.96%) and sterile growth (4.88%). Antibiotic susceptibility test revealed highest sensitivity towards Enrofloxacin. However, antibiotics showing higher rate of resistance patterns were Streptomycin, Penicillin G, Ampicillin, Cloxacillin, Amoxicillin, Kanamycin and Lincomycin. This reflects the poor quality of milk available to the consumers, lack of adequate hygienic practices, pre-emptive prophylactic regimen and indiscriminate use of antimicrobials.

The present study was undertaken to assess the therapeutic efficacy of oral Nitaxoxanide and Sulphadimidine treatment against Cryptosporidium infection in bovine calves reared under field conditions. A total of 18 diarrhoeic calves naturally infected with Cryptosporidium infection were evaluated. Nitazoxanide was found to be very effective on the basis of disappearance of clinical signs, restoration of altered haemato-biochemical parameters to their normal level and 78.89% reduction in Cryptosporidium oocysts shedding. On the other contrary, sulphadimidine was found almost ineffective in the treatment of cryptosporidiosis in calves. Intravenous infusion of Ringer’s lactate and 5% Dextrose used as adjunct therapy for correction of fluid and electrolyte losses fastened the recovery.

Present investigation was undertaken to compare the different lactation curve models for describing the shape of the lactation curve in Murrah buffaloes. Data for the present study included 9071 monthly test-day milk yield (MTDMY) from 965 Murrah buffaloes calved during 1977 to 2012 at the National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal. A total of 10 monthly test-day milk yield records were taken at an interval of 30 days. The data were used to estimate lactation curve parameters for four lactation curve models viz. Gamma type function (GF), Exponential function (EF), Mixed log function (MLF) and Polynomial regression function (MLF). The mean monthly test day milk yields (MTDMY) increased from 5.91±0.13 kg on TD1 to a peak yield of 7.41±0.12 kg on TD3. The estimates of coefficient of determination (R2) and root mean square error (RMSE) for GF, EF, MLF, and PRF were 96.42%, 98.65%, 98.48%, 99.86% and 0.077, 0.049, 0.052, 0.015, respectively. PRF fitted best to the test day data followed by EF on the basis of higher R2 and lower RMSE estimates, whereas GF fitted least.

60 buffaloes of early and 60 buffaloes of mid lactation stages are selected to study the effect of Bypass fat with and without combination of Yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) and Herbal galactogogue on milk yield, fat percentage and serum triglyceride content. It was observed that combination of Bypass fat with Yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) and Herbal galactogogue supplementation increased weekly average milk yield of supplemented buffaloes as well as fat content and serum triglyceride content compared to plain Bypass fat supplemented buffaloes which in turn performed better than non supplemented buffaloes. This effect is attributable to beneficial effect of Yeast on rumen metabolism and subsequent increased dry matter (DM) digestion,   propionic acid production, and protein digestion compared with  the control provides energy as well as yeast to balance and improve rumen metabolism which in turn improves milk fat and serum triglyceride level.. The increased energy supply to the animals in negative energy balance was responsible for increased milk yield and availability of low density serum triglyceride in plasma led to increased fat content and serum triglyceride levels.

The present study was envisaged to record the prevalence of gastro-intestinal parasites in captive wild animals of Kanan Pandari Zoo, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh. For this investigation, a total of 145 faecal samples of different captive wild animals were screened, 54 were found positive for various helminth parasites, indicating 37.24% prevalence of gastro-intestinal parasites. Among different helminthic infections, the prevalence of nematodal infection was higher than cestodal infection. Among different captive wild animals, the prevalence of parasites was higher in herbivores (45.68%) followed by carnivores (28.33%). The intensity of gastro-intestinal parasitic infection in captive wild animals was mild as eggs per gram ranged from 100-500.

The present study screened ten dogs with the history of prolonged exogenous glucocorticoid administration. The dogs were subjected to detailed clinical examination and special diagnostic procedures to study the clinicopathological changes associated. The most common signs observed were thinning of skin and asymmetrical alopecia. Serum alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, triglyceride and cholesterol were elevated. The adrenal glands were found to be atrophied on ultrasonography. The cortisol levels were within normal range in Low Dose Dexamethasone Suppression Test LDDST. Iatrogenic hyperadrenocorticism was diagnosed in these dogs and were advised withdrawal of steroid. Initial improvement of clinical signs was observed at 8 weeks after corticosteroid withdrawal.

The present work was aimed to study retention time of magnet in reticulo-rumen for prevention of traumatic reticulo-peritonitis in cattle. A total of 32 stall fed cattle from an organised dairy farm were screened for foreign bodies in reticulum with the help of stud finder. Metallic foreign bodies were detected in 37.5 per cent of the cattle. The animals were orally administered a cylindrical bar magnet of 70 mm length rounded at both ends. Subsequently, the animals were evaluated for the presence of magnet in their reticulum, twice at 6 months interval with the help of magnetic compass, as well as with reticular radiograph once at six months. The magnet was retained for 6 months in 78.1 per cent and for 1 year in 51.8 per cent of the animals. Yearly evaluation of reticulum with compass is recommended to detect retention of magnet in cattle.