Bovine mastitis has for a long period severely restrained production performance in the dairy enterprise. Despite improved management approaches and veterinary services, mastitis is still responsible for a major loss of the economy to the extent of worldwide. Genetic control as in development of protective immune mechanism and disease tolerant animal is considered an economic and prophylactic technique for health improvement management. We, therefore, need to recognise thoroughly the factors regulating the association between both the etiological agents and the host’s mammary gland cells. Consequently, we need to determine differentially expressed genes during particular conditions in regard to mastitis. High-throughput transcriptome sequencing technique (RNA-Seq) has evolved as the main option for the analysis of differential gene expression setting the foundations for modern genetic research.

Pigs form a very important component of the Indian livestock. It has immense potential to ensure nutritional and economic security for the weaker sections of the society. Pork is a nutritious food that is commonly consumed worldwide. The current study was planned to investigate the distinction in the relative expression of myogenic regulatory factors (MRF) genes (MyoD, Myf5, Myf6, Pax7 and Pax3) and their role in the postnatal myogenesis Longissimus dorsi muscles of indigenous and Large White Yorkshire (LWY) breeds. These genes help in muscle differentiation and regeneration of skeletal muscles. MyoD has shown significantly (P<0.05) higher quantitative transcript levels in indigenous pigs than in LWY. There is no significant difference in the transcript levels of Myf5 and Myf6 have been observed in the indigenous pigs whereas both the genes have shown significantly (P<0.05) higher quantitative transcript levels in LWY. Further, no statistically significant (P<0.05) difference for Pax3 and Pax7 have been recorded for both the breeds. The current study on relative expression of transcript levels of MRFs in LWY and indigenous pigs presents them as candidate genes for body growth rate. The current study will aid in understanding the genetic basis for myogenesis in postnatal stage. Moreover, it may act as steppingstone for the identification of marker genes related to body growth and meat quality in indigenous breeds.

The main aim of this work was to study the histological development of fetal ovary and oviduct. The samples were collected from abattoir accidental findings over a period of six months. The ovary and oviduct samples were fixed and routinely processed with Haematoxylin and Eosin and Periodic Acid Schiff. Cortical and medullary zones were not so distinct at the first trimester ovarian tissue. Scanty follicles were found scattered within the connective tissue. The zones were more distinct in the second and most distinct in the third trimester. The primary follicles were also numerous along side with vessels. The oviduct had long branching folds bearing the pseudostratified epithelium that was clearly demarcated in the third trimester. It was concluded that these features can be added to the existing literature and Ultrastructure is recommended in the future research of fetal female Camelids.

Diagnosis of pregnancy at an early stage is important for profitable dairy enterprise. The objective of present study was to evaluate diagnostic performance of immunoassay kits used for early pregnancy detection in cattle. Two ELISA based kits were used for detection of pregnancy-associated glycoproteins-1 (PAG-1) and pregnancy-specific protein B (PSP-B). Another RIA based kit was used for the estimation of serum progesterone (P4 ). Ultrasound examination was done in all cows under controlled experimental conditions and used as a reference method. Based on availability of assay points, two pregnant groups of dairy cattle i.e. 30-35D (n=16) and 45-50D (n=10) were included for PAG-1/PSP-B estimation. However, all four Pregnant groups viz., 7-10D (n=11), 17-20D (n=8), 30-35D (n=16) and 45-50D (n=10) and three non-pregnant groups viz., Heifer (n=6), Cyclic Non-AI (n=13) and Post-partum (PP; n=13) were included for progesterone estimation. Ultrasound examination was done at 30- 35D and 45-50D of pregnancy to screen the experimental animals and early pregnancy samples were confirmed retrospectively. Sensitivity of all three immunoassay kits for PAG-1, PSP-B and P4 was reported 92.31%, 96.15% and 84.44%, respectively. Specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV) and Accuracy for P4 kit were observed 90.63%, 0.93, 0.81 and 87.01%, respectively. However, lack of values in non-pregnant animals in study for the estimation of PAG-1/ PSP-B limits full reflection of diagnostic performance of respective kits. Henceforth, it is recommended to include large number of pregnant as well as non-pregnant animals to conclude comprehensively on the diagnostic performance of these assays

The present investigation was carried out to evaluate the anthelmintic efficacy of crude aqueous and methanolic extract of Butea frondosa seeds extracts against benzimidazole resistant gastrointestinal nematodes of goats through in vitro and in vivo methods. In vitro investigation was carried out by egg hatch assay (EHA), larval paralysis test (LPT) and adult mortality test (AMT) against different stages of gastrointestinal nematodes whereas, in vivo by faecal egg count reduction (FECR) test in goats naturally infected with benzimidazole resistant GI nematodes. In in vitro trial, methanolic extract showed better ED50 in egg hatch assay and larval paralysis test as compared to aqueous extract. Moreover, in adult mortality tests, the methanolic extract gave better average corrected mortality as compared to aqueous extract. In vivo results revealed that the group treated with methanolic extracts showed the significant reduction (p<0.05) on 21st day whereas, the group treated with aqueous extract showed the highest and significant reduction (p<0.01) on 14th day. The results of both in vitro and in vivo trials suggest that B. frondosa possess anthelmintic activity and could be considered as one of the alternatives to the chemical anthelmintic.

Poultry production suffers huge losses due to heat stress, which is caused by high temperatures in many areas during the summer. Therefore, maximum production requires the elimination of the deleterious impacts of environmental stressors. The aim of this study was to check the amelioration of heat stress in commercial broilers by ascorbic acid supplementation on biochemical parameters viz., effect on plasma ascorbic acid, plasma albumin, plasma glucose, breast muscle pH, thio-barbituric acid value. A total number of 96 birds were randomly divided into 8 groups, 4 groups of birds were kept at (37±5.0°C) in heat stress conditions, while 4 other groups of birds were kept at 26±1.0°C (comfort temperature) using an air conditioner and each group consist of 12 birds. G1 was taken as control whereas G2, G3 and G4 were supplemented with 100 mg, 200 mg and 300 mg of ascorbic acid respectively. G4 group supplemented with 300 mg of ascorbic acid showed better results with overall plasma ascorbic acid values (6.84 ± 0.14) as compared to other supplemented and non-supplemented groups. However, G3 group supplemented with 200 mg of ascorbic acid showed better results with overall plasma glucose (310.39± 3.60) and plasma albumin (4.07±0.14) values. On 45th day, G3 group supplemented with 200 mg of ascorbic acid showed better results with respect to Breast muscle pH (6.2) and thiobarbituric acid (2.18) values. This shows Vitamin C/Ascorbic acid has potential antioxidant effect able to modulate physiological adjustments to mitigate the undesirable effects of exposure of broilers to high temperatures.

The purpose of this study was to assess slime production and quantification of biofilm in a set of well-characterized Listeria monocytogenes strains isolated from healthy and clinically affected animal. In all 28 strains of L. monocytogenes belonging to serotype 4b having proved in vitro pathogenicity potential is included in the study. Slime production was determined by cultivation of the organisms on Congo red agar medium, while quantification of biofilm was performed with the help of microtitre plate assay. Out of 28 isolates, 22 (78.57 %) strains of L. monocytogenes produced slime. The rest of the 6 (21.43 %) isolates were negative for slime production. For biofilm production, out of the 28 strains, 5 (17.86 %), 18 (64.29 %), and 5 (17.86 %) were found moderate, weak and negative, respectively. Strains belonging to Listeria monocytogenes serotype 4b showed inconsistent results regarding biofilm production. Biofilm productivity exhibited profound intra-strain variations irrespective of source of isolation. As L. monocytogenes are biofilm producers, this increases the probability of occurrence of animal and human infection. Further, as L. monocytogenes produces biofilm, infections caused by this bacterium may be underestimated because diagnoses in the presence of biofilm are difficult.

A survey was undertaken in four agro-climatic zones of Assam to explore the existing free-range indigenous chicken farming system. Data were collected from 200 farmers, selected randomly by personal interviews with structured questionnaire. Results on existing free-range chicken production system were analyzed and documented. The overall mean age of the chicken farmer was 37.95±0.77 years. The primary purpose of chicken rearing was to meet day to day petty expenses (49.50%) and selfconsumption (24.50%). The overall mean flock size recorded as 29.79±0.28 number per household and the flocks were mostly comprised of chicks. Majority (63%) of the chicken coop were constructed inside the dwelling house without any specifications with locally available materials. The study also indicated that indigenous chicken production was characterized by scavenging with supplemental feeds. Primarily home produced eggs were used for natural incubation by broody hen or duck. Newcastle (Ranikhet) disease was the most fatal disease that caused heavy mortality in indigenous chicken flock as reported by 84.5 per cent of the respondents. Farmers seldom vaccinated their birds against any diseases, but none of them practiced deworming. Chickens were mostly sold as live chicken. Eggs were mostly collected from farmers’ doorstep by hawkers. The study indicated that the indigenous chicken played a significant role in nutritional and livelihood of rural smallholders.

Several extenders to preserve fertilizing capacity of preserved canine semen have been successfully tested, but further studies are requisite to improve its quality. Effect of supplementation of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and glutathione (GSH) to Tris-citric acid-fructose-egg yolk extender on Labrador dog sperm survival during storage at 4° was evaluated. Different concentrations per antioxidant i.e. SOD (50-300 IU/ml), GPX (1.5-2.5 IU/ml), CAT (100- 400 µg/ml) and GSH (2.5-10 µM/ml) were evaluated to look for an optimum dose. Semen was analyzed for motility, viability and plasma membrane integrity (PMI) after every 24 hrs till 72 hrs of preservation. Semen was also analyzed for acrosome integrity (AI) at 0, 72 hrs and lipid peroxidation at 72 hrs of storage. Values for motility, viability, PMI, AI were significantly (p<0.05) higher in the presence of 200IU/ ml SOD, 2 IU/ml GPX, 200 µg/ml CAT and 7.5 µM/ml GSH compared to control and other tested doses. MDA concentration was non-significantly (p>0.05) less in the presence of all doses of SOD and 2.0 IU GPX compared to control at 72 hrs of preservation. MDA concentration in the presence of 200 µg/ml catalase and 7.5 µM/ml GSH was non-significantly (p>0.05) higher than control. It was concluded that SOD, catalase, GPX and GSH at a concentration of 200 IU, 2.0 IU, 200µg and 7.5 µM per ml were optimum concentrations to be supplemented to the extender for positive effect. Supplementation of antioxidants could improve sperm attributes by maintaining proportionate level of oxidative stress during preservation of Labrador dog semen at 4° for 72 hrs.

An investigation is carried out to study the effect of inclusion of dried garlic powder at varying levels on serum biochemical profile of Japanese quails. One hundred and fifty, day old quail chicks distributed randomly to five dietary groups each with three replicates of ten quails and were offered broiler quail diets (starter and finisher) to meet the nutrient requirements (ICAR, 2013). During the experiment, dried garlic powder is included at 0.0% (T1 : Control), 0.50% (T2 ), 1.0% (T3 ), 1.5% (T4 ) and 2.0% (T5 ) level by marginal adjustment of other feed ingredients. All the rations were made iso-caloric and iso-nitrogenous. Results indicated that the serum total protein (P<0.05), HDL-C and phosphorous (P<0.01) contents increased while serum glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL-C, VLDL-C and creatinine levels decreased (P<0.01) with increase in the level of inclusion of dried garlic powder from 0 to 2.0% in the diet. However, inclusion of dried garlic powder up to 2.0% in the diet had no effect (P>0.05) on serum albumin, globulin and calcium levels. The study indicated that dried garlic powder can be incorporated up to 2.0% level in the diet as natural feed additive for production of low cholesterol meat without any adverse effect on performance of quails.

Among myriads of factors causing huge loss to the dairy industry, mastitis occupies major cause of concern. Sub-clinical mastitis (SCM) is an inflammation of udder without any visible changes in the udder and milk. In this study, 242 no. of cows were screened by modified California Mastitis Test (mCMT), milk pH, electrical resistance (ER) and somatic cell count (SCC). Apparently healthy cows had the mean value of milk pH, ER, and SCC was 6.57±0.04, 356.67±13.33 and 1.52±0.12×105 cells/ ml, respectively, while the corresponding values in SCM infected cows were 7.55±0.04, 315.00±19.45 and 17.22±3.12×105 cells/ml. The overall prevalence of SCM infected cow was found to be 31.40% on animal wise, 7.85% on quarter wise, and 2.48% on blind teat wise. The individual quarter wise prevalence was found to be highest in left hind quarter (15.70%) and left fore quarter (5.78%), while lowest in right hind quarter (5.37%) and right fore quarter (4.54%). The prevalence of SCM in relation to stage of lactation in cows revealed highest (36.54%) in early stage of lactation followed by late (34.38%) and mid (27.78%) stages of lactation. The variable prevalence of SCM was observed at different stage of parity. The highest prevalence was observed at 2nd parity (66.67%) followed by 1st parity (43.33%), 4th parity (40.75%), 3rd parity (30.00%), 5th parity (19.44%), 6th parity (13.04%) and lowest at 7th and above parity (8.57%). Losses incurred due to mastitis can be minimized by improving management and milking practices.

Spicy paneer with oleoresins is the novel approach to develop tailorable ready-to-eat snack food. Oleoresins were explored to replace the original ground spice with a standardized taste and aroma as per the requirement of the product. The storage life of the developed spicy paneer was assessed at different temperatures; ambient (25°C) and refrigeration temperature (4°C) under aerobic packaging conditions on the basis of various sensory and physico-chemical characteristics. All the sensory attributes viz., colour and appearance, texture, flavor, chewiness and overall acceptability decreased both at the ambient and refrigeration temperature during storage. There was significant (p<0.05) decrease in water activity whereas increase in FFA, tyrosine and pH during storage at ambient and refrigerated temperature. The microbial load (SPC, Yeast and mold and coliforms) followed an increasing trend during the storage. Results concluded that the paneer was stable for a single day at ambient condition (25°C) whereas 6 days at refrigeration temperature (4°C) with respect to sensory and microbiological quality.

Equine piroplasmosis is considered a notifiable disease of worldwide significance and endemic in many countries of the world. This study was designed for the sero-detection of equine piroplasm and to investigate the associated risk factors of EP. A total 295 horse’s serum samples were screened for T. equi and B. caballi infection by cELISA and result of the study indicated that 62.71% of horses having presence of antibodies by cELISA. Sero-prevalence of piroplasmosis in horses was found significantly (P<001) associated with different breeds of horses whereas non-significant difference was observed between age and sex of the horse. Highly significant (P<0.01) difference was observed in horses rear in pacca house and tick control adopted by owner for prevention of EP as compared to horses rear in kachcha house and ticks control not adopted by horse owner whereas significant (P<0.05) difference noticed in presence of tick infestations and absence of tick infestations on body of horses. Moreover, there was no any significance differences observed in presence of equine piroplasmosis from organized farm and unorganized farm, horses kept with other animal species and horses kept without other animals.

Anthrax, caused by Bacillus anthracis, is a severe zoonosis with a great impact on animal and human health. In the present study, 15 out of 16 isolates from clinical ear piece and soil samples (16), 8,6 and one samples isolated respectively from bovine, sheep and goat were confirmed as Bacillus on amplification of rpoB gene, 22 isolates (ear piece13, soil-9) were PCR positive for PA gene of PXO and 10 isolates (ear piece) amplified CAP gene confirming Bacillus anthracis. Similarly, all 31 isolates (earpiece-15 and soil-16) were confirmed as Bacillus anthracis on amplifying rpoB gene and chromosomal Ba813 gene. On nucleotide analysis with genus specific rpoB gene of earpiece and soil isolates shown 99-100% identity, whereas nucleotide analysis with species specific genes; PA of PXO1, CAP of PXO2, rpoB and chromosomal Ba813 gene shown 98-100% identity with their respective reference strains of Genbank. On phylogenetic analysis, earpiece isolates and soil isolates from endemic districts of Andhra Pradesh shown close evolutionary relationship with each other. However, earpiece isolates of Sr6 (Accession No:MK310254) and N3 shared ancestral relation with global reference strains of USA (Accession No:CP012730) and Japan (Accession no: AP014833) respectively. Similarly soil isolate of VM9 also shared ancestral relation with global reference strain of Japan (Accession no: AP014833). This phylogenetic analysis deciphered that there is no strain variation among isolates of B. anthracis collected from different clinical and soil samples of different districts of Andhra Pradesh.

The study was carried out to develop low salt buffalo calf meat rolls partially substituting sodium chloride with potassium chloride (maintaining equivalent ionic strength) at the levels of 10% to 50%. Substitution up to 30% level did not result in any significant variations in sensory attributes but further increase in potassium chloride level caused significant decline in flavor, tenderness, juiciness, texture and overall acceptability. The replacement did not cause any significant difference in proximate composition, water holding capacity, emulsion stability of developed meat rolls. Increase in pH and decrease in cooking yield values was observed with enhancement in level of potassium chloride but significant effect was noticed only at 50% replacement. Texture profile and instrumental color of KCL treated rolls were comparable to control. Firmness and toughness declined with increasing incorporation of KCl but significant impact was noticed only at 50% level. The replacement up to 30 % was optimum to develop low salt buffalo calf meat rolls.

Beta-defensins are cationic antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) involved in resistance against microbial colonization. In this study total RNA was extracted from tongue of Osmanabadi goats and used to synthesize β-Defensin-1 complementary deoxyribonucleic Acid (cDNA) using reverse transcriptase. In this study in silico characterization of Osmanabadi goat β-Defensin-1 cDNA and its deduced peptide was carried out using PCR, Sequencing and DNAstar programme. CDS of Osmanabadi goat β-Defensin-1 consists of 195 nucleotides encoding a protein of 64 amino acids. Multiple alignment at nucleotide level revealed that Osmanabadi goat β-Defensin-1 had high homology with goat bD1-Y17679, Assam Hill goat Defensin, goat XM_018042143, and goat bD2-AJ009877 sequence. Similarly, multiple alignment at the amino acid level revealed that Osmanabadi goat β-Defensin-1 had high identity with goat bD1- O97946, Assam Hill goat-AST23025, goat- XP_017897632 and goat bD2- 097942 peptides. Phylogenetic tree analysis revealed that β-Defensin-1 of Osmanabadi goat, both at nucleotide and amino acid level, is closely related to goat, sheep and Reindeer sequences. The Osmanabadi goat β-Defensin-1 cDNA sequence is identical to goat β-Defensin-1 reported from USA. No nucleotide substitution/ change was observed in Osmanabadi goat β-Defensin-1 compared to β-Defensin-1 of goat from USA. It also showed high percentage of identity with goat defensin-1 related molecules. Structure prediction using Phyre2 revealed goat β-Defensin-1 had structural similarity with bovine neutrophil beta-defensin 12.

The veterinary profession is complex and the demand of this profession expose veterinarians to various risks like traumatic injuries, zoonotic diseases and mental health hazards. This study reports physical, chemical, biological, psychological health hazards and awareness relevant to Indian veterinarians as obtained by self administered questionnaire. As many as 392 veterinarians were surveyed. Physical injuries reported were Bite (31.8%), scratch (65.1%), kick (62.8%), horn wound (14%), needle prick (89.2%), fracture (3.8%) and injuries due to falling/ lifting animals/ moving heavy equipments (61.3%). Majority of veterinarians experienced some form of allergy. Incidence of skin irritation was highest among (50.2%) veterinarians. Ringworm (13.5%) and fungal infection (26.5%) were most common zoonotic infection. Low level stress was reported in 45% of participants, 34% had moderate and 21% felt high level of psychological stress. The proportion of participants using protective equipments include 60% gloves, 1.1% goggles, and 39.8% apron The study showed that 171(43.6%), 122 (31.1%), 67 (17.1%), 32 (8.2%) veterinarians followed deworming at 6 month, 1 year, 2 year and more than 2 year intervals respectively. The awareness levels concerning occupational hazards among the veterinary health professionals was near optimal but the need was felt to implement efforts aimed at addressing deterrence of occupational hazards.

The present study was conducted to understand non-vegetarian consumer behavior, preferences, hygienic considerations and their expected changes in meat selling business. A questionnaire in Marathi language was designed with Google form for this online survey. Under these 194 (172 Male and 21 Female) respondents from all regions of Maharashtra state were surveyed. The study revealed that majority of consumers (90.21%) preferred hot, freshly slaughtered chicken meat (77.32%) which include all body parts of the carcass (56.19%) and them (70.62%) usually preferred to eat non-vegetarian food once or twice in a week. About 68.59% consumers preferred skinless chicken carcass slaughtered by any ritual method (53.76%). The study indicates that most of the consumers (70.62%) usually buy meat from the meat shop near to their residence and nearly 42.78% consumers showed concern about cleanliness and hygienic condition of the meat selling shop where from they buy non-veg products. Most of the consumers (82.38%) showed their willingness to purchase home delivery of minimal handled hygienic meat and for this they (86.17%) are ready to pay a slightly higher price. It indicates consumer concern about safety of food, but surprisingly, they are unaware of the food laws, quality guidelines, food safety standard. Almost all consumers (96.89%) agreed that there is a need to raise awareness and to educate consumers regarding this issue.

Sixteen cases of horse presented with the worm in the anterior chamber of eyes were managed surgically in xylazine sedated standing horses using either blade incision (n=14) or needle paracentesis (n=2), near limbus. Vision was completely restored in all the cases with complete resolution of symptoms like corneal opacity, corneal oedema and epiphora within 25-30 days, post operatively.

The study was performed to identify Wnt and YAP1 target proteins and regulators in the tear fluid and the role of Timolol (0.5% w/v) in corneal wound healing by mediating YAP1 activation in dogs suffering from corneal ulcer due to Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS). Complete clinical examination, the staging of KCS cases, and tear fluid collection were done. Protein identification from tryptic peptides of tear fluid of KCS cases was done through Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF/ MS). Dynamics of YAP1 and its downstream targets CTGF and E-Cadherin in Tear fluid through immuno-blotting and in-situ detection through Immuno-histochemistry (IHC) was done. The role of Timolol (0.5% w/v) in the corneal healing through activation of YAP and CTGF was studied. Wnt target proteins like Frizzled-6 (FZD6), Catenin beta1(CTNNB1), G1/S-specific cyclin-D1(CCND1), Vascular cell adhesion protein-1 (VCAM-1), and Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) were found significantly up-regulated (p<0.05) in corneal ulcer (KCS). YAP1 regulators Tyrosine-protein kinase Yes (YES1) was found significantly up-regulated (p<0.05) whereas Leukemia inhibitory factor receptor (LIFR), Angiopoietin-1 (Ang-1) and Rho GTPase-activating protein 7 (DLC1) (p<0.001), Tight junction protein ZO-3 (TJP3), and Cadherin-1 (CDH1) (p<0.05) were significantly down-regulated in corneal ulcer compared to normal tear. Increased expression of YAP1 and CTGF was observed in the tear film and corneal tissues of corneal ulcer cases. Up-regulation of the Wnt target proteins and YAP1 activation occurred in corneal ulcer due to KCS and orchestrated characteristic corneal pathology. Timolol enhanced cell proliferation and thus was helpful in corneal healing but augmented KCS pathology in corneal tissue.

In this study RT-PCR was used to detect CDV NP gene from the whole blood samples of dogs clinically suspected for CD followed by the study of pathomorphological alterations in different tissues. Clinical signs such as respiratory distress, purulent oculo-nasal discharge, biphasic fever, gastroenteritis, pustular dermatitis, prominent hyperkeratosis of the digital pads and nervous disorders were observed in the clinically suspected cases. The nervous disorder includes seizure, convulsion, paddling movement, tremor followed by posterior paralysis. On necropsy, bronchopneumonia, congestion and haemorrhages over the mucosal surface of the urinary bladder, stomach, intestine and brain were prominent lesions. Microscopically, both eosinophilic intranuclear and intracytoplasmic inclusion bodies were recorded in the neurons and glial cells, epithelial cells of the bronchioles, urinary bladder, kidney tubules and gastric glands. Congested vessels with haemorrhages were also found in the brain, lungs, stomach, intestine and lymphoid organs.

The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of turmeric (Curcuma longa) powder and synbiotic as alternative to antibiotic growth promoter on growth performance of broiler chicks. Total 150 day-old chicks were purchased and randomly divided into 5 treatments having 30 chicks in each group with three replicates of 10 chicks in each. The five dietary treatments were designated as T1 control group (basal diet), T2 supplemented with antibiotic @ 0.02% level, T3 supplemented with turmeric @ 0.5% level, T4 supplemented with synbiotic @ 0.05% level and T5 supplemented with turmeric @ 0.25% + synbiotic @ 0.025% in the diet. Highly significant (P<0.01) effect of dietary treatment was observed on growth performance and mortality percent as compared to control and antibiotic supplemented group. Highest body weight was observed in T5 group and lowest in control group. Body weight gain, daily weight gain, feed consumption and performance index was found significantly (P<0.01) higher in T5 group which was comparable with T4 group and lowest was recorded in control group which showed non-significant difference with T2 group i.e. antibiotic supplemented group. Significantly (P<0.01) lowest feed conversion ratio and highest protein efficiency ratio was observed in T5 group as compared to control group. Mortality was reduced in all treatment groups as compared to control group. It can be concluded that as an alternative to antibiotics, turmeric plus synbiotic supplementation can be used to increase the growth performance and livability of broiler chicken in the post-antibiotic period.

The study was conducted to find the effectiveness of bio-preservatives and packaging method on the shelf life of milk solids based khoa. Khoa samples were prepared individually by combinations of SMP (skimmed milk powder) with ghee and whey protein concentrates and SMP with cream (50% fat). The control sample was prepared utilizing full cream buffalo milk (6% fat). Natamycin at 10 ppm and nisin at 100 IU/g were incorporated while khoa was still hot (85-90°C). The samples without biopreservatives were packaged in simple and vacuum packaging separately. The all treatments were evaluated for sensory quality during storage at room temperature (23±2 °C). The study revealed that vacuum packaged and bio-preservatives treated samples were organoleptically acceptable up to 20th day storage.

Melting ulcer, moderate and severe aggressive ulcerative keratitis pose a threat for staphyloma formation, perforations and blindness. The only resort to correct such condition remains corneal transplantation. Due to various shortcoming of transplantation procedure the present pilot trial was conducted to evaluate efficacy of platelet concentrates in such conditions. Platelet rich plasma drop was prepared and 1-2 drops were instilled 4 times/day for 15- 30 days in affected eye. This treatment group was compared with application of Leucocyte Platelet Rich Fibrin membrane which placed over the corneal ulcer and affixed with conjunctiva under general anesthesia. It was found that homologous PRP drops served the purpose of healing of moderate or grade II corneal ulcer satisfactorily; moreover, it prevented their advancement to severe or aggressive form. On the other hand, homologous L-PRF membrane provided sufficient scaffold for sealing of severe or grade III corneal ulcers with or without perforations and staphylomas.

The study was conducted to compare the productivity performance of Layer breeder under conventional house and automatic house. Both houses were studied under small farms with an average of 250 birds. This study covered a period of 22 weeks with five replicates. Based on the results, the effect of different rearing systems on the mean body weight and FCR from week eighteen to forty weeks of age on weekly and cumulative basis were significantly (P≤0.05) influenced among the various treatment groups in HH-260 birds. Egg production, Hen housed and hen day egg production in experimental birds in automatic rearing system was significantly different from birds reared in conventional rearing system. The study also concluded that ARS birds had better liveability as compared to birds under conventional rearing systems. Litter quality analyzed based on the proximate analysis and E. coli count and found significant (P≤0.01) difference among the two-rearing systems. The proximate analysis of built up litter was significant higher (P≤0.01) in CRS than the ARS. The higher proximate values like crude protein, crude fat, crude fibre, total ash and energy value were mainly due to feed wastage in conventional rearing system which leads to elevation of these values. There was highly significant difference (P≤0.01) in working time measurement of automation over conventional system of rearing. It accepted the hypothesis of the study that ARS housing have better productivity and profitability over conventional, this is testified by the general better FCR, egg production, liveability and litter quality in CCS houses.

Present study was conducted to assess the influence of calf, dam and sire factors on female calves born in Gir cattle. Records pertaining to calf sex (n=1307), spreaded over 10 years (2010-2019) and various calf factors viz. period, month, season and sex of calf; dam factors viz. age, parity and gestation period and sire factors were used for the study. Female calf born in Gir cattle was 49.96%. Calf sex was not affected by period of birth (p=0.26), but significantly higher proportion of female birth than male (60.22% vs. 39.78%) occurred in 2013 (p<0.05). Odds of female calf being born was 1.75 times higher in 2013 as compared to 2010 (OR=1.75, p=0.04). Month (p=0.31) and season (p=0.41) of birth did not affect calf sex. There was significantly higher chances of female birth during February (OR=1.66, p=0.05) and March (OR=1.67, p=0.04) as compared to January. Calf sex was not affected by age (p=0.44) and parity (p=0.85) of dam. With increase in gestation length the birth frequency of female calf decreased significantly (p<0.001). Compared to gestation period of >290 days, the odds of female calf born increased by 2.25 (OR=2.25, p=0.001) and 2.27 (OR=2.27, p=0.001) times with gestation period of <275 and 275-290 days, respectively. Sire wise data showed that proportion of female birth ranged from 22 to 90%, but female calf born from different sires did not differ statistically (p=0.13). Chances of female birth was significantly higher (OR=3.79-31.5, p<0.05) in 12 sires. The results indicated that gestational length had significant effect on secondary calf sex ratio in Gir cattle and dam with shorter gestation period delivered more number of female calves.

The impact of Haematobia fly menace in dairy cows was studied in cattle farms maintaining different breeds of cattle, located in Namakkal district, Tamil Nadu, India during the month of December 2019. The flies collected from each farm were identified as Haemtobia exigua. The fly avoidance activities include head throws, tail flicks, ear flicks, leg stamps (front and rear), and skin twitches were recorded for one minute and frequency of activities was correlated with fly intensity in animals. The frequency of tail flicks, skin twitches, ear flicks, head throws and leg stamps was 27.5, 20.3, 13.5, 3.0 and 2.8 respectively when the fly population was fairly high and also these activities were found to be higher in evening than morning. Of the 50 cows examined, 40 cows (80.0%) had skin lesions due to fly bites. Animals with dark colour skin had more lesions (90.32%) than medium (75.0%) and animals with light-coloured skin (42.85%). In addition, the prevalence of skin lesion in respect to breed was found to be the high in Jersey cross bred cows (89.18%) followed by Holstein Friesian cross (71.42%), but no such lesions were noticed in Tharparkar (0%) breed. The development of fly bite wound sore in relation to fly intensity in cattle was 85, 75 and 60 % in animals that had high (>150), moderate (100 &150) and low infestation (50 & 100) respectively. Approximately 50-100 flies were found to be sufficient to produce lesions, however the severity of lesions depends on level of infestation.

The present investigation was carried out to investigate the optimum stocking density in conventional California cages depending on the production performance and welfare of commercial white leghorn hens. To achieve the objectives of the designed experiment total 270 commercial white leghorn layer strain of BV 300 were maintained into four stocking densities that is 60 sq. inch (T1), 75 sq. inch (T2), 85 sq. inch (T3) and 100 sq. inch per bird for 20 weeks period, with 18 replicates in each treatment. At the end of the experimental period the birds reared in 85 sq. inch and 100 sq. inches had significantly (P<0.001) higher percentage of hen day egg production, better feed conversion ratio, minimum cost of production per egg & higher egg weight (P<0.05) compared to the birds reared in 60 and 75 sq. inches group. Physiological indicators of welfare i.e. H/L ratio and Corticosterone was significantly better in birds reared at stocking density 85 sq. inch when compared to 60 sq. inches group. Laying hens maintained in California cages at stocking density of 85 and 100 sq. inch per bird recorded the best production and welfare parameters. Therefore, considering best utilization of the space with due weightage to welfare, the commercial layer birds reared at stocking density 85 to 100 sq inch per bird performed well.

The Gaur (Bos gaurus), or the Indian bison, is native to South and Southeast Asia and has been listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List since 1986. Diseases manifestation may reduce the body potentials leading to morbidity and mortality. Little is known about the health parameters and gastrointestinal parasites infection in free-ranging gaurs as well as other wild animals. A detailed study was conducted to know the epidemiology and prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in wild Gaur (Bos gaurus) at Satpura Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh, India. A total of 90 fecal samples from wild Gaur were collected from the grazing area of the tiger reserve. Detailed coprological examination for the presence of parasitic eggs/oocysts by direct smear examination, standard sedimentation, and floatation techniques was performed. Out of the 90 fecal samples of wild Gaur, 41.11% were found positive for single or mixed parasitic infection. The overall prevalence rate of Strongyles was maximum 13 (14.44%) followed by that of Eimeria sp. 11 (12.22%), Moniezia sp. 10 (11.11%), Amphistomes 6 (6.66%), Trichuris sp. 5 (5.55%), and Fasciola sp. 3 (3.33%). Wild gaurs at Satpura Tiger Reserve were exposed to parasites having pathogenic significance.