The spleen morphology of the African Giant pouch rat from the rainforest vegetative region of Nigeria was investigated to establish is basic biology as there dearth of information on it from available literature. Grossly, the spleen was shaped like an elongated triangle, with the two ventral sides of the triangle forming a hilus at the apex of their both convergence. This hilus served as the site of entry and exist of blood vessels and nerves. Microscopically, the spleen was covered by a capsule of connective tissue. The parenchyma was composed mainly of red pulp and isolated areas of white pulp. The red pulp contained splenic cords, sinusoids and other vessels. The white pulp contained the periarteriolar lymphatic sheath which presented a germinal centre, marginal zone and eccentrically located artery surrounded by small lymphocytes. The microanatomy of the spleen revealed an organ involved in blood storage, blood purification and body immune response. This paper will fill the knowledge gap and serve as baseline data for further investigative research.

Chicken remains the most intensively reared domesticated poultry species in the animal production industry in Africa. A cross-sectional study was conducted from April to November 2016 in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, Nigeria to evaluate the prevalence of gastrointestinal and malaria parasites of local and exotic domestic fowls. A total of 620 domestic fowls were examined for gastrointestinal parasites in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, Nigeria, using the flotation technique. Another 16 (10 exotic and six local) domestic fowls were examined for Plasmodium infection and Packed Cell Volume (PCV). Five species of parasites were identified from the domestic fowls which included Ascaridia galli (54.2%), Heterakis gallinarum (15.5%), Capillaria sp. (8.2%), Raillietina sp. (20.8%) and Syngamus trachea (1.4%). Ascaridia galli had the highest prevalence in both the local (male = 50%, female = 48.5%) and exotic domestic fowls (male = 62.5%, female = 55.7%), followed by Raillietina sp., Heterakis gallinarum, Capillaria sp. and Syngamus trachea respectively. Plasmodium sp. was detected in two (33.3%) out of six local domestic fowls and two (20%) out of 10 exotic domestic fowls. The relationship between the PCV and malaria parasite prevalence level in both local and exotic domestic fowls were negative and not statistically significant (p>0.05). However, the relationship between the PCV and malaria parasite prevalence was stronger in the local domestic fowls (R = 0.207) than in the exotic domestic fowls (R = 0.172). It is necessary that public awareness scheme, and prevention and control measures with better management system be introduced in the study area.

This study was on the molecular characterization of Harnai sheep breed in Balochistan. A set of (n=16) ovine specific SSR markers, recommended by FAO, was used on (n=50) blood samples from unrelated animals of Harnai sheep breed from their breeding tract. Various genetic parameters were observed using Pop gene software. A total of 74 alleles were found on 13 loci. The finding values for observed number of alleles (Na), effective number of alleles (Ne) and Shannon’s Information index (I) the average values were found along with standard deviation to be 2.448±0.869, 1.7050.604 and 0.5890.357 respectively, further more, the mean values of observed heterozygosity (Obs_Het) expected homozygosity (Exp._Hom), expected heterozygosity (Exp_Het), effective number of allele (Ne) average Heterozygosity (Ave Het) were found to be 0.598±0.299, 0.366±0.284, 0.602±0.238, 0.363±0.219, 0.347±0.209 and 0.347±0.209, respectively. The value of F-statistic ranged from 0.2851 to 0.9132 for different microsatellite markers with an average of 0.515±0.021. Majority of the markers showed higher than average expected reduction in heterozygosity. The standard errors were generally low, which indicated that homozygosity prevails in the population under study. This might be due to intense inbreeding in this flock of Harnai sheep.

A biological experiment of 42 days duration was undertaken in which 384 day old chicks were divided into 12 dietary treatments as per 3×4 factorial design having 4 replicates per treatment with 8 birds in each. Twelve experimental diets were prepared by incorporating control (maize-soya based), two different levels of rice Distillers Dried Grains (rDDGS) 12.5 and 15%, without and with three different types of enzymes (xylanase, protease and multienzymes). The inclusion of rice based distillers dried grains with solubles (rDDGS), enzyme supplementation and their interaction revealed no significant (P>0.05) difference on the haematological parameters of broiler chicken. The serum cholesterol decreased significantly (P<0.01) at 15% rDDGS level as compared to control and 12.5% rDDGS level. The serum triglyceride decreased significantly (P<0.01) at 12.5 and 15% rDDGS levels compared to control diet. The serum glucose significantly (P<0.05) increased by multienzymes supplementation compared to xylanase and control diet. The serum total protein, albumin and globulin significantly (P<0.01) increased in protease supplemented groups as compared to control and other enzyme supplemented groups. The interaction of rDDGS levels and enzyme supplementation revealed no significant (P>0.05) effect on any of the serum parameters. Thus, it may be concluded that feeding of (rDDGS) up to 15% and soybean meal based diets without or with protease, xylanase and multienzymes in broiler chickens did not have any adverse effect on haematological and serological parameters. Protease supplementation has beneficial effect on serum biochemistry in DDGS diet.

Hantavirus is an emerging zoonotic virus, cause of fatal diseases in humans. Brown rats (Rattus norvegicus) are known reservoir host for Seoul hantavirus. This is the second report of prevalence of antibodies against hantavirus in brown rats in Grenada. Sera from 169 brown rats were tested using ELISA for antibodies against hantavirus. Prevalence of antibodies was found in 47 rats (27.5%). There was no significant difference related to age and sex of seropositive rats. Although no case of hantavirus infection in humanshas been recorded in Grenada, the presence of moderate infection in reservoir host should be considered a risk factor for disease transmission in humans.

Faecal samples (n=300) from diarrhoeic neonatal goat-kids of different livestock sheds of ICAR-CIRG, Makhdoom, and field goat-kids of Mathura, UP were aseptically collected, and used for E. coli isolation. On the basis of cultural, morphological, biochemical and molecular characteristics, a total of 193 E. coli isolates were identified from 300 fecal samples. Out of 140 E. coli isolates, only 90 isolates could be serotyped at National Salmonella and Escherichia Centre, Central Research Institute, Kasauli, and the most common serogroups responsible for neonatal diarrhoea were found as O88 (n=11), O22 (n=10), O11 (n=8) and O83 (n=7). Congo red dye agar test was done to determine invasiveness of the isolates, and 77.20% (149/193)E. coli isolates showed Congo red binding activity. Identification of shiga toxin producing E. coli (STEC) was done by PCR amplification of its stx-1 gene, and 5.69% (11/193) isolates were identified as STEC. Pathotype specific primers were used to amplify bundle forming pilus (bfpA) gene of enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC), and 35.23% (68/193) isolates were identified as EPEC. A multiplex PCR was performed to detect labile toxin producing enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC-lt), stable toxin producing enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC-st) and enteroinvasive E. coli (EIEC), and 24.35% (47/193), 2.59% (5/193) and 2.07% (4/193) isolates were determined as ETEC-st, ETEC-lt and EIEC, respectively. EPEC and ETEC-st were found as the most prevalent pathotypes associated with neonatal diarrhoea in goat-kids whereas; O88 and O22 were observed as the most common serogroups in causing diarrhoea in the neonatal goat-kids.

Lysozyme degrades the bacterial cell walls and gives rise to degradation product that stimulates and activates the immune system. Several gram positive and gram negative bacteria were found to be susceptible to different degree of purified lysozyme. Variation in promoter region may regulate the expression of a particular gene. Hence, considering lysozyme gene a potential marker for general immune response, expression pattern of various genotypes on the basis of variations in promoter region is investigated in Muzaffarnagri sheep. A 268 bp fragment spanning partial promoter, exon 1 and partial intron 1 of serum lysozyme gene were amplified and sequenced. Sequencing revealed five genotypes AA, AB, AC, BB and CC and consequently three alleles A, B and C in Muzaffarnagri sheep. Differential expression study of various genotypes by real time pcr revealed significant difference (P≤0.05) in the serum lysozyme expression in animals having different genotypes. Animals having AA genotype showed higher expression of serum lysozyme than the animals having AB, AC and BB genotype.

Brucellosis is highly infectious zoonotic disease that causes huge economic losses to livestock farmers by affecting the reproductive potential of animals causing last trimester abortions and infertility. In the present study evaluation of different serological tests to diagnose the seroprevalence of brucellosis in bovines with history of abortion using various serological tests [Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT), modified rose bengal plate test (mRBPT), microtitre plate agglutination test (MAT) and indirect enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (i-ELISA)] was carried out. A total of 134 blood samples of cattle and buffalo with history of abortion were collected from organized and unorganized farms. Seroprevalence by mRBPT, RBPT, MAT and i-ELISA was 75.37%, 67.91%, 72.38% and 72.38%, respectively. In organized farms, prevalence of 78.12%, 81.25%, 78.12% and 81.25% while in unorganized farms prevalence of 64.70%, 73.52%, 70.58% and 69.60% was reported by RBPT, mRBPT, MAT and i-ELISA, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of serological tests by keeping i-ELISA as gold standard were also calculated and the results revealed that sensitivities of RBPT, mRBPT and MAT were 91.75%, 97.94% and 96.91%, respectively, whereas specificities were 94.59%, 83.78% and 91.89%, respectively.

Marbofloxacin is a broad-spectrum fluoroquinolone antibiotic developed for use in veterinary medicine for the treatment of skin and soft tissue infections in dogs and cats. Plasma protein binding plays a vital role in distribution, elimination and therapeutic effectiveness of drugs. In the present study we evaluated the plasma protein binding of marbofloxacin in healthy and liver dysfunctioned buffalo calves. In vitro binding of marbofloxacin to plasma proteins was determined by employing the equilibrium dialysis technique and further analyzed by High Performance Liquid Chromatography assay. The plasma protein binding for healthy calves ranges between 25.3±0.34% to 30.4±0.40% with an overall binding of 28.66 ± 0.421%. Kinetic constants (βi) and (Kβ) was 2.6±0.12×10-8 mole/g and 1.9±0.08×10-7 mole, respectively. The percentage of plasma protein binding for liver dysfunctioned buffalo calves extended from 24.5 - 30.3% with an overall mean of 28.59 ± 0.693%. The binding capacity of the drug to plasma proteins (βi) and dissociation rate constant of protein drug complex (Kβ) were 2.53±0.13 10-5 mole/g and 1.94±0.09×10-6 mole respectively. There was no significant change observed in plasma protein binding and the kinetic constant of liver dysfunctioned buffalo calves when compared to the healthy group.

Brucellosis is an anthropozoonotic infectious disease in which infected animals pose a threat to humans. This disease has considerable social, economic and international trade importance. Despite past and current efforts to eradicate brucellosis, a large number of new human cases are reported annually worldwide. In this study, patho-physiological response to Brucella abortus S19Δper infection in BALB/c mice was assessed in comparison to its parent strain, B. abortus S19 and virulent strain, B. abortus 544. Immunohistochemical analysis confirmed the presence of bacteria in liver and spleen. Comparatively lower serum Aspartate aminotranferase (AST) level and observation of less number of microgranulomas in liver indicated that B. abortus S19 Δper was less infectious and failed to cause active infection unlike S19 and 544 strain. S19Δper, thus could be a safer vaccine candidate as an alternate to the S19 vaccine strain. Hematological studies indicated clinical manifestation of thrombocytopenia in different Brucella infected mice including S19Δper. Therefore, measurement of platelets count and serum AST level may offer as reliable indicators of brucellosis in clinical cases.

The present study was conducted to evaluate the replacement of synthetic choline chloride by herbal choline in diets on liver function enzymes, carcass traits and economics of broiler production. Three hundred straight-run Cobb-400 day-old broiler chicks were randomly distributed into five treatment groups having three replicates having 20 chicks in each and reared up to 6 weeks. The treatment group T1 (control) offered basal diet (BIS, 2007), T2 offered basal diet with choline chloride-60% @ 1 kg/ton of feed, groups T3, T4 and T5 offered basal diets with herbal choline @ 0.25, 0.35 and 0.50 kg/ton of feed, respectively. The SGPT, SGOT and ALP were significantly (P<0.01) reduced in treatment group T5 as compared to control group. There was non-significant difference for blood loss, feather loss, edible carcass yield and abdominal fat percent in all treatment groups. The net profit expressed in terms of rupees per kg live weight in treatment groups was increased by 18.35% (T2), 14.37% (T3), 21.05% (T4), and 38.55% (T5) over the control group (T1). It may be concluded that the herbal choline supplemented at dose levels of 0.35 kg/ton and 0.5 kg/ton of feed was found to be useful to improve the overall performance due to better growth resulting into increase in profit margin of broiler production replacing synthetic choline chloride (1kg/ton) in broiler diets. Moreover, the supplementation of herbal choline at 0.5 kg/ton of feed was more beneficial in terms of improved liver protection, carcass traits and economics of broiler production.

The present study was done to see the effect of heat stress on blood parameters in dairy cattle. Dairy cows of similar physiological status were selected. Blood samples were collected and analyzed based on the temperature-humidity index (THI). Blood samples were collected and analyzed for packed cell volume PCV(%), red blood cell count RBC count, white blood cell count (WBC) and hemoglobin (Hb). Significant rise in physiological parameters such as respiration rate (RR), pulse rate, was observed. Hematobiochemical parameters such as red blood cell count (RBC), (WBC), (PCV%), (Hb), Cholesterol, creatinine, ALT, AST, Cortisol and BUN were increased. From the present study it can be concluded that THI is a sensitive indicator of heat stress.

Due to the expansion of human population, threat for existence of all wild animals is gradually increasing. They are driven to exist in smaller areas and in the worst case scenario extinction. Zoos are being encouraged to improve the animal’s physical and social surroundings. In this study, the modern naturalistic enrichment introduced to large felids tiger, lion and leopard at Gandhi Zoological Park, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, was studied. The study has envisaged evaluating if the modern naturalistic enclosures could increase activity levels and how the felids opted to these enclosure. The enclosures were divided into menageries and natural enrichment, which had a varying degree of opportunities for the animals to climb, hide and rest above ground level. The environmental enrichment effects on the proportion of time spent engaging in active behaviors and stereotypic pacing in the large felids were compared and recorded using instantaneous scan sampling. The results of this study revealed clearly that large felids kept in more natural and complex enclosures performed less stereotypic pacing (unnatural behavior), and more exploratory (natural) behaviour than those housed in less natural enclosures reducing the stress level in captive tigers will enhance the animals’ overall physical and psychological well being, which will in turn increase the success of captive breeding programs. Furthermore, these results suggest that captive tigers should be housed in large enclosures containing natural substrate and vegetation, water pools, ample shade, a variety of resting locations and enrichment items.

The present study was conducted at Livestock Research Centre (LRC), ICAR-NDRI, Karnal To find out the effect of poly herbal mixture supplementation on postpartum productive performance in KF cows. Thirty multiparous calved KF cows were chosen and divided into three groups, 10 cows in each group. One group was considered as control (C) and other two as treatment groups (T1 and T2). The control (C) group cows were offered the ration as per the standard feeding schedule (ICAR, 2013). The treatment group (T1 and T2) cows were offered the same ration and then additionally the polyherbal mixture combination (25 g each of the herbals + 25g black salt + 250g jaggery) as a treatment for the first 10 and 20 days postpartum period in T1 and T2 group, respectively. The productive related parameters, such as 60 days total milk yield (60 DTMY), peak yield (PY), days to peak yields (DPY), milk compositions and production disorders were recorded in 60 days of postpartum period. The treatment groups, 60 DTMY, PY and DPY were increased as compared to control group. Milk fat % and SNF % of treatment groups (T1 and T2) were more or less similar, if compared with the control group. Milk lactose % of T1 and milk protein% of T2 were significantly (P≤0.05) higher at 60th day of lactation. The productive disorders incidence was also very low in treatment groups (T1 and T2) during the 60 days postpartum period.

Preweaning piglet mortality, mainly due to crushing is an important concern in pig production systems adversely affecting the profit from the farm and welfare of the animals. The present study compared three different systems of farrowing houses viz. conventional farrowing house with guard rail and one-third slated floor (T1), farrowing house with guard rail and floor level ventilation (T2), and farrowing houses with farrowing crates (T3) to identify the best system to minimize the farrowing house stress and mortality. There were no changes in average daily feed intake, serum cortisol levels and maternal behaviour of the sows in different groups. The litter size and litter weight at birth were more or less similar in all treatment groups, whereas litter size and litter weight at weaning was higher (P < 0.05) in T3 compared to other groups. There was significant reduction in piglet mortality in houses with farrowing crates (T3) compared to other two groups (P < 0.05). Cost of production per kilogram live weight of piglets on housing cost basis was also observed to be lower in system with farrowing crates. The payback period required to meet the housing cost for T3, T2 and T1were calculated as 1.63, 2.94 and 3.11 years, respectively. The results of present study identified that farrowing houses with farrowing crates significantly reduced piglet mortality, thereby increasing the profitability of swine husbandry without any adverse effect on the performance of sows.

Present study was aimed at investigating the effects of threonine supplementation on antioxidant enzyme activities and haemato-biochemical profile of commercial broilers in sub-tropics. Three hundred thirty -day old straight run commercial broiler chicks (Vencobb-400) with initial average body weight of 44.04±0.42g were allocated into five experimental groups, in a completely randomized design (CRD) with 42 days experiment. Groups were formed according to the dose of supplemental L-threonine in various rations i.e. NRC specification, 100% of Vencobb-400 strain specification, 110% of Vencobb-400 specification, 120% of Vencobb-400 specification and 130% of Vencobb-400 specification group. The mean serum GSH-Px and serum catalase concentration increased linearly {(p=0.001) and (p=0.04), respectively} whereas the mean serum SOD level increased both linearly (p=0.002) and quadratically (p=0.04) with the increasing levels of supplemental L-threonine. Among the hematological parameters of blood, the H:L ratio decreased linearly (p=0.02) with the increasing levels of threonine. The serum glucose and total protein concentration increased linearly (p=0.002) with the increasing levels of supplemental L-threonine. There was a linear increment (P<0.001) in serum globulin level with a linear decrease (p<0.05) in albumin: globulin ratio on increased levels of supplemental L-threonine in the ration. There was a linear decrease (p<0.001) in cholesterol and VLDL level with the increasing levels of supplemental L-threonine, however, a linear increment (p=0.04) in the serum HDL level was noticed. It may be concluded that L-threonine supplementation at 130% threonine (of Vencobb-400 specification) has a better antioxidant function and better haemato-biochemical profile.

The 300 day old Kadaknath chicks were randomly distributed into five treatment groups A, B, C, D and E with three replicates having 20 birds in each and reared up to 6th weeks. The treatment groups were viz., control group A: birds fed diet CP 18%, ME 2700 kcal/kg, Methionine 0.38%, Lysine 0.85%; B: diet CP 19%, ME 2800 kcal/kg, Methionine 0.40%, Lysine 0.90%; C: diet CP 20%, ME 2900 kcal/kg, Methionine 0.48%, Lysine 1.00%; D: diet CP 21%, ME- 3000 kcal/kg, Methionine 0.45%, Lysine 1.10%; E: diet CP 22%, ME 3100 kcal/kg, Methionine 0.50%, Lysine 1.20 %. The body weights and weight gain in group D were significantly (P<0.01) higher than other treatment groups except group B at 6th week. The significantly lower feed intake was observed in group D compared to control group at 1st and 3rd weeks. The feed conversion ratio was significantly (P<0.01) better in groups B (3.74±0.06), D (3.70±0.10) and E (4.18 ±0.13) compared to control group (4.70±0.25). The antibody titres against Ranikhet disease were non-significant in all treatments at 3rd and 6th weeks. The cost of production in rupees per kg live weight was recorded lowest in group D (217.56) followed by groups B (218.62), C (255.39), E (256.23) and A (261.11). It may be concluded that the rearing of Kadaknath chickens under intensive system fed starter diet containing ME 3000 kcal/kg, CP 21%, Lysine 1.10% and Methionine 0.45% recorded best growth performance, better immune response and lowest cost of production at the end of 6th week.

Screening and selecting bulls for desirable reproductive traits and high libido is known to improve the reproductive performance of the herd. Evaluation of sexual behaviour and semiogram is very useful in demarcating the high fertility bulls. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to quantify the sexual behaviour in presence of male teaser in relation to semen quality in buffalo bulls. Bulls were categorized into two groups (high and low libido) on the basis of reaction time. The average duration of first licking of prepucial area was significantly (p<0.05) lower in high libido bulls as compared to low libido bulls. The average frequency and overall duration of licking of prepucial area until ejaculation in high libido buffalo bulls was significantly (p<0.05) lower as compared to low libido bulls. The average time lag to show flehmen response following sniffing and licking the prepucial area and urine of teaser male was similar (p>0.05) in high and low libido buffalo bulls. The average chin resting time were similar (p>0.05) in high and low libido buffalo bulls. Individual sperm motility (%) and viability (%) was found to be significantly higher (P<0.05) in high than the low libido bulls. Sperm abnormality (%) was significantly higher (P<0.05) in low libido bulls. Therefore, it can be concluded that breeding buffalo bulls can be demarcated for high libido based on quantification of sexual behaviour traits in relation to semen picture.

The study was conducted on 10 goats, aged between 10 months to 5 years, brought to T.V.C.C, Jabalpur for the treatment of compound fracture in metacarpal and tibia. The animals were selected irrespective of their age, sex, breed and body weight. The animals were randomly divided into two equal groups. In group I, external skeletal fixation using Acrylic as the connecting bar was applied whereas in group II, Epoxy putty was used as the connecting bar. Wound area at fracture site decreased significantly at 30th day as compared to 0 day. The mean radiographic score increased significantly at 30th day and was highest at 60th day. Weight bearing score improved on 15th day and complete weight bearing was observed on 12th to 30th days in all goats. Pin loosening, pin tract drainage and inflammation were observed post-operatively.

The present investigation was aimed to evaluate the incidence of anoestrus in postpartum buffaloes and compare the intensity of oestrus in anoestrus and oestrus induced buffaloes. A total of 500 postpartum buffaloes were selected from different villages situated around Rewa (M.P.). Calving and breeding history of animals was recorded and Gynaeco-clinical examination. The incidence of anoestrus in postpartum buffaloes was recorded as 33.40 per cent. Out of 167 postpartum buffaloes found to be positive for anoestrus, 24 buffaloes were again randomly divided into three treatment (n=18) and control group (n=06). These treatment group animals were again divided into 03 groups on the basis of hormonal treatment protocols given to animals of groups. Ovsynch group, Heatsynch group, CIDR plus Heatsynch group while control group animals were left untreated. Oestrus intensity score of buffaloes ranged from 80-90, 68-72 and 46-52 in intense, moderate and weak oestrus intensities at induced oestrus respectively, with a mean weighed score of 84.88±1.30, 70.00±0.81 and 49.00±3.00, respectively. Thus it was concluded that the incidence of anoestrus recorded to be 33.40 per cent. Oestrus intensity score card pattern is a good tool to designate intensity of oestrus which has positive relationship with fertility.

Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre is a medium sized glabrous, perennial tree which grows in the littoral regions of South Eastern Asia and Australia. In the Indian Ayurvedic medicine, different parts of the plant have been used for pain relief in various disorders. The present study investigated the potential of different leaf extracts of Pongamia pinnata as an analgesic agent in rodents and our aim was also to study in-vitro cytoprotective effects of the various extracts from leaves of the plant. Different leaf extracts of Pongamia pinnata i.e. aqueous, alcoholic, acetone and chloroform were investigated for analgesic activity at the dose rate of 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg in Wistar rats. For the assessment of analgesic activity, tail flick method was used. In-vitro cytoprotective activity of various leaf extracts (at concentrations of 5% and 10%) was evaluated in ATCC acquired MDBK cell lines and for this study, cytotoxicity was induced by thiomethoxam. It was observed that almost all the extracts demonstrated the dose dependent analgesic activity with maximum response in the aqueous extract group @ 100 mg/kg when compared to control. For cytoprotective study, oxidative stress parameters- catalase, LPO, SOD and GPx were determined. Study on analgesic activity revealed the presence of dose dependent effect in all extracts with highest effect in aqueous extract of Pongamia pinnata. We believe that triterpene alkaloids and steroidal principles present in the plant products might be responsible for the analgesic effect.

In the present study, insulin and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) administered during mid-luteal phase of the estrous cycle and effect on biochemical profiles of Sahiwal donor cows was noted. Altogether eighteen cows (n=18) were selected and divided into 3 groups; control (n=6, untreated), T-I (n=6, Insulin-treated) and T-II (n=6, IGF-I treated). Superovulatory treatment was started on day 9th of the estrous cycle. With the 6th dose of FSH, prostaglandin was injected to induce superovulatory estrus. The superovulated cows were bred and superovulatory response of each animal was recorded. The collections of embryos were done non-surgically on the 7th day of superovulatory estrus. About 15 ml blood without anticoagulant was collected on days 5,7,9,11,13,15,17,19 and 21st or day of embryo recovery where day 0 of estrous cycle was taken as the day of estrus. Serum was separated, centrifuged at 3000 rpm for 15 minutes and transferred into sterilized serum vials. All samples were stored at -20 oC till analysis. Serum glucose, cholesterol, total protein, urea, and creatinine were estimated by Span Diagnostic Kits. The concentration of serum glucose increased significantly in insulin-treated and IGF-1 treated Sahiwal donor cows. It may be concluded that exogenous insulin and IGF-1 administration during mid-luteal phase may be helpful in follicular and embryonic development by increasing the level of serum glucose. The concentration of serum cholesterol, total protein, urea, and creatinine remains unaffected.

Present study was conducted on 24 dogs, aged between 1 to 8 years, irrespective of sex, breed. The animals were randomly divided in to four groups. In group I, animals were treated with standard dressing material Povidone iodine (5.0%). In animals of group II, III, IV herbal ointments (10% w/w) of hydroalcoholic extract of Marigold leaves, Guava leaves and mixture of both Marigold and Guava leaves extracts respectively were used for dressings of wounds for 7 consecutive days. In animals of group IV, marked re-epithelialization and moderate inflammatory cells, neovascularization and thicker but scattered collagen fibrils were seen on day 7 and mature collagen fibres were observed with least number of inflammatory cells on day 14 as compared to other three groups. Therefore, it can be concluded that group IV (mixture of Marigold and Guava leaves hydroalcoholic extract) revealed better wound healing properties as compared to group I (Povidone iodine 5.0%), group II (Marigold leaves hydroalcoholic extract) and group III (Guava leaves hydroalcoholic extract).

Genus Klebsiella from faeces of sloth bears was screened by using culture morphology, Gram’s staining, biochemical tests and polymerase chain reaction. Our results showed that out of 60 samples collected, 22 samples (36.67%) were cultured on Klebsiella Selective Agar Base with Klebsiella Selective Supplement and Gram’s stain revealed rod-shaped Gram-negative organism with purple-magenta colony - like colonies. The biochemical tests of cultured samples revealed negative to indole production and methyl red test, positive to Voges-Proskauer test, positive to Simmon citrate utilization test, negative to H2S production and that produced acid over acid reaction in TSI agar and positive to urea production in cultured samples. All Klebsiella species isolates were sensitive to azithromycin followed by enrofloxacin and resistant to clindamycin and methicillin. The gyrA gene was amplified by PCR for the genus Klebsiella and found to be positive of 36.67%. This study may provide information for developing strategies in the future in the control of Klebsiella species infections in sloth bears.

The tissue distribution of estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and progesterone receptor (PR) was examined using immunohistochemical technique. Image analysis was done to quantify the immune reactivity. The ERα and PR was localized in luminal epithelium, glandular epithelium, stromal cells, endothelial cells and myometrium and few cells in perimetrium. The immuno staining was observed in the nuclei of cells, however, faint cytoplasmic staining for PR was also observed. Variations were seen in the different tissue compartments of the uterus and during the different phases of the estrous cycle. Significantly higher number of ERα positive cells was observed in lamina epithelialis as compared to stromal cells and smooth muscle cells in myometrium. Significantly higher percentage of ERα positive cells was observed in the lamina epithelialis and lining epithelium of endometrial glands during follicular phase as compared to the luteal phases of estrous cycle (P < 0.05). Higher number of PR positive cells was observed in lamina epithelialis as compared to stromal cells and smooth muscle cells in myometrium (P < 0.05). Higher percentage of PR positive cells was observed in the lamina epithelialis during follicular phase as compared to the luteal phases of estrous cycle (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the immuno reactivity in stromal cells, lining epithelium of endometrial glands and smooth muscle cells of myometrium during the phases of estrous cycle. The study concluded that ERα and PR expressions were higher during follicular phase as compared to the luteal phase.

Corneal ulcers in dogs usually have a traumatic origin. They cause a break in the continuity of underlying corneal stroma and become rapidly contaminated with bacteria. Twenty eight clinical samples were obtained from corneal ulcer affected dogs for bacterial isolation and anti-microbial susceptibility. Bacterial growth was observed in 100% of the samples (n=28) and Staphylococcus spp. was isolated and characterized by culture, gram staining and various biochemical tests. Antibiogram pattern revealed that gatifloxacin and moxifloxacin antibiotics were found to be highly effective in the treatment of corneal ulcers in dogs. Corneal culture and sensitivity testing provided useful information for the diagnosis, determination of appropriate treatment and antimicrobial therapy for corneal diseases in dogs.

  A cross- sectional study was conducted from October, 2016 to April, 2017 to identify and determine the major diseases and pathological conditions of organ condemnation and to estimate the magnitude of the direct financial losses attributed to the condemned organs from cattle slaughtered in the Hayik municipal abattoir. From a total of 384 animals, 61(15.88%) of animals antemortem inspection showed some clinical sign that were assumed as minor and attention was paid at postmortem examination of these animals. During post postmortem examination from 384 slaughtered animal liver 72 (18.75%) followed by lung 25 (6.5%), heart 17(4.4%), kidneys 18(4.68%) and tongue 18(4.68%) were rejected due to various causes. The main causes of organ condemnation were fasciolosis 24(33.33%) followed by calcification, abscess and hydrated cyst 12(16.67%), 12(16.67%) and 9(12.5%) respectively. An attempt also made to estimate the direct financial losses due to condemnation of edible organs during meat inspection. Consequently, annual direct financial loss from organ condemnation was estimated to be 3,736,231.25 Ethiopian Birr. The study identified the parasitic disease as major causes of organ condemnation. Therefore, creation of awareness on animal attendants and/or cattle owners and abattoir workers about the effect of parasites and safe disposal of condemned organs must be made and recommended as the findings showed that the rate of organ condemnation at the abattoir is very high which signifies the need for rapid disease control programs to be implemented.

The health surveillance through a copro-ovoscopical study was conducted to assess the gastrointestinal parasitic infections in captive canine {jackal (Canis aureus), wolf (Canis lupus), dhole (Cuon alpinus) and hyaena (Hyaena hyaena)} and feline carnivorans {lion (Panthera leo), tiger (Panthera tigris), leopard (Panthera pardus) and jungle cat (Felis chaus)}, maintained at Bannerghatta Biological Park, Bengaluru, Karnataka. A total of 41 fecal samples from apparently normal/healthy captive lions, 35 from tigers, 34 from leopards, 14 from jungle cats, 4 from dholes, 4 from wolves, 4 from jackals and 2 from hyenas were collected over a period of 12 months during 2015-2016 and were screened using classical parasitological techniques including sedimentation and floatation technique followed by microscopic identification of eggs. It revealed the prevalence of ova of 3 (7.31%) Strongyle sp., 8 (19.51%) Ancylostoma sp., 21 (51.21%) Toxocara sp., 16 (39.02%) Toxascaris leonina, 4 (9.75%) mixed (Ascaris and Ancylostoma sp.) in lions; 19 (54.28%) Toxocara sp., 8 (22.85%) Toxascaris leonina, 6 (17.14%) Ancylostoma sp., 2 (5.71%) oocyst of Eimeria sp., 2 (5.71%) Spirometra sp. in tigers; 13 (38.23%) Toxocara sp., 6 (17.64%) Ancylostoma sp. in leopards; 7 (50%) Isospora sp. and 2 (14.28%) Toxocara sp. in jungle cats; 2 (50%) Ancylostoma sp. in jackals; 2 (50%) Toxocara canis and 1 (25%) Ancylostoma sp. in wolves; 2 (50%) Toxocara canis in dholes; while ova of only 1 (50%) Ancylostoma sp. could be observed in hyaena. This preliminary data may be useful for health management of the said species in captivity.

A cross sectional study was conducted to determine the dynamic prevalence of bovine tuberculosis amongst bovine using single intra dermal cervical comparable test (SICCT or CIDT) in North-Eastern agro-climatic zone of Tamil Nadu. In the present study, Out of 1119 blood samples tested from four selected districts of North-Eastern agro-climatic zone of Tamil Nadu, the overall prevalence of M. bovis infection in North-Eastern agro-climatic zones of Tamil Nadu was found to be 8.46 per cent by CIDT and highest prevalence was noticed in Vellore (10.86%) district followed by Kancheepuram (8.20%), Thiruvallur (7.92%) and Chennai (6.86%) districts, which shows the potential to increase the incidence as well as prevalence of the disease since the “test and slaughter” or “culling policy” are yet to be strengthened intensively or warranting the calf-hood immunization against tuberculosis.