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ThesisItem Open Access STUDIES ON CHARACTERIZATION AND PERFORMANCE OF VIZIANAGARAM SHEEP OF NORTH COASTAL ANDHRA PRADESH(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY TIRUPATI - 517 502. (A.P.) INDIA, 2010-04) GANGARAJU, GOLLAMOORI; SARJAN RAO, K(MAJOR); JAGADEESWARA RAO, S; RAGHUNANDAN, T; GNANA PRAKASH, MABSTRACT: A study was undertaken on the a) distribution of local Vizianagaram sheep b) biometric and morphological characters of the breed c) productive and reproductive performance of the breed and d) managemental practices being followed by farmers of Vizianagaram breeding tract in north coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh comprising of Srikakulam, Vizianagaram and Visakhapatnam districts. Based on nlultistage stratified random sampling technique, the study was carried out in 7 mandals each from every district and from each mandal 7 villages were selected. From each village 2-3 sheep farmers maintained local Vizianagaram sheep with an average flock size of 60-75 were selected for the study resulted in a sample size of 775. 1244 and 153 Vizianagaram sheep from Srikakulam, Vizianagaram and Visakhapatnam districts. The data recorded from farmers flocks were compared with the data of LRS, Garividi. The chest girth, body length and keight at withers (cm) were 35.2w0.33, 29.46M.37 and 40.3M.32 for ram lambs of below 1 year and 73.0W0.71. 60.91*0.82 and 68.84*0.62 for rams of 10-12 months. respectively. Significant (PThesisItem Open Access CLINICO-DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC STUDIES ON SUBCLINICAL FORMS OF CERTAIN PRODUCTION DISEASES IN CROSSBRED COWS(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY TIRUPATI - 517 502. (A.P.) INDIA, 2011-11) AMBICA, G; TIRUMALA RAO, D.S(MAJOR); AMEER HAMZA, P; RAGHAVENDER, K.B.P; GOPALA REDDY, AABSTRACT: The present clinical investigation was undertaken to study the incidence, clinical and haemato biochemical findings, therapy and therapeutic efficacy of certain drugs and to evolve a suitable comprehensive therapeutic regimen in cows with subclinical forms of certain production diseases viz., hypocalcaemia, ketosis, hypophosphataemia and hypomagnesaemia. Out of 280 recently parturated (from day zero to two months post calving) cows presented to the Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex, Campus Hospital, Rajendranagar; Dairy experimental station, College of Veterinary Science, Rajendranagar and surrounding peri urban areas with the history of reduced feed intake and decreased milk yield during a study period of 14 months, 106 (37.86 per cent) were suffering from one or more than one of the above said subclinical production diseases. On detailed clinical examination, urine analysis and serum biochemistry, it was observed that 24 cows were positive for subclinical hypocalcaemia (group - I), 38 for subclinical ketosis (group - II), 8 for subclinical hypophosphataemia (group - Ill) and 5 for subclinical hypomagnesaemia (group - IV), which accounted the incidence of 22.64, 35.85, 7.55 and 4.72 per cent, respectively. The incidence of more than one of the above said deficiencies (mixed deficiencies, group - V) was recorded in 31 cows which accounted for 29.24 per cent, out of that the incidence of subclinical hypocalcaemia along with 'ketosis; subclinical hypocalcaemia along with ketosis and hypomagnesaernia; subclinical hypocalcaemia along with hypophosphataemia; and subclinical hypocalcaemia along with hypomagnesaemia was observed in 17, 4, 7 and 3 cows, respectively with a corresponding incidence of 16.04%, 3.77%. 6.60% and 2.83%, respectively. Each group was again subdivided into two subgroups viz., la, Ib; Ila, Ilb; Illa, Illb; IVa, IVb and Va, Vb to study and evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of oral and parenteral drugs. 10 apparently healthy postparturient cows (group - VI) were maintained as healthy control group. The clinical observations in cows suffering from subclinical form of production diseases revealed reduced feed intake and decreased milk yield. There was no significant difference in the values of temperature and pulse rate before and after treatment in all the groups, which indicated that subclinical form of production diseases had no significant effect. All the animals during the treatment regained the appetite and milk yield. Ruminal motility was increased significantly (Pe0.01) and urine analysis was normal in all the groups after the treatment. Group la and Ib cows were low in urinary and serum calcium levels. Animals belonging to group la has received Calup Gel @ 300 g orally OD for 3 days and Rumen-FS bolus @ 2 boli orally BID for 5 days and group Ib animals were administered Inj. 25% lntacal @ 450 ml iv OD for 3 days and Inj. Tribivet @ 10-1 5 rnl im OD for 3 days. Among haematological parameters the mean Hb level was increased significantly (Pc0.05)in group la, where as in group Ib mean Hb, TLC and granulocyte percent were increased significantly (Pc0.05). Among serum parameters increased mean serum calcium and magnesium were significant at 1% (Pc0.01) and increased phosphorus and total protein and decreased serum glucose and AST were signficant at 5% (Pc0.05) in group la, where as in group Ib increased calcium and decreased serum glucose. magnesium and AST were significant at 1% (Pc0.01) and increased total protein and albumin at 5% (Pc0.05). The comparative means of serum glucose, calcium, magnesium and AST of healthy, group la and Ib revealed that the treatment given to group Ib was more effective. Group Ila and Ilb animals were found positive for urinary ketones. Animals belonging to group Ila were administered Ketonil Gel orally @ 1 tube/day for 2 days, followed by half of the tube for next 2 days and Liq. €-Booster @ 200 ml orally BID for 2 days followed by 100ml BID for next 2 days, where as group Ilb cows were administered Inj. Wocktrose-25 @ 540 ml iv OD for 3 days, Inj. Ketocort @ 1Omg total dose im for 3 days and Inj. Tribivet @ 5 ml im for 3 days. Among haematological parameters the mean TLC was increased significantly at 1% (P<0.01) and mean Hb, monocytes, granulocytes percent, MCH and MCV were increased significantly at 5 OO/ (P~0.05i)n group Ila cows, while in group Ilb mean Hb, TLC, monocytes and granulocytes Oh were increased significantly at 1 % (PcO.01) and mean PCV, TEC, MCH and MCV were increased significantly at 5% (Pc0.05). Among serum parameters, significantly increased mean serum glucose, calcium, total protein and albumin and decreased AST levels at 5% (Pc0.05) in groups Ila, where as in group Ilb increased mean serum glucose and calcium and decreased AST were significant at 1% (P-=0.01) and increased serum total protein and albumin was at 5% (Pc0.05) level. Though there was an improvement in both the groups, the comparative means of serum glucose, calcium and AST of healthy, group Ila and Ilb revealed that the treatment given to group Ilb was more effective. Group llla and lllb cows were low in serum phosphorus. Cows belonging to group llla were administered Sodaphos powder @ 30-60 g orally OD for 5 days and Ferritas bolus @ 2 boli orally OD for 5 days. while group lllb animals were administered Inj. Urimin @ 10-15 ml im OD for 3 days and Inj. Ferritas @ 1 rnll 50 kg body weight im once. Among haematological parameters the mean Hb, PCV, TEC and MCV increased significantly (Pc0.05) in group Illa; and in group lllb mean Hb, PCV and TEC were increased significantly at 1% (Pc0.01) and mean lymphocytes, MCV and MCH were increased significantly at 5% (Pc0.05). Among serum parameters decreased serum glucose and ALP and increased calcium were significant at 1% (PcO.01) and increased phosphorus and magnesium and decreased AST at 5% (Pc0.05) in group llla and in group lllb decreased serum glucose, AST and ALP and increased calcium and phosphorus were significant at 1% (PThesisItem Open Access EFFECT OF MICROBIAL PROTEASES AND CRITICAL AMINO ACIDS MODULATION ON THE DIETARY REQUIREMENT OF PROTEIN IN COMMERCIAL BROILERS(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY TIRUPATI - 517 502. (A.P.) INDIA, 2011-11) SRILATHA, T; RAVINDER REDDY, V(MAJOR); CHINNI PREETHAM, V; RAMA RAO, S.V.; RAMANA REDDY, YABSTRACT: Protein is the second largest nutrient which determines the feed cost of poultry production. By optimizing the nutrient allowances of dietary crude protein (CP) through supplementation of the most critical amino acids and supplementation of microbial proteases in at sub-optimal concentrations of dietary CP we can reduce the cost of feeding besides minimizing environmental pollution from broiler farming. To fulfill these objectives, a total of 5 experiments were conducted including an in vitro protein digestibility of compounded broiler feeds. All experiments were conducted with commercial broilers reared in battery brooders from 1 to 42 d of age. The primary objective of the Experiment 1 was to find out the optimum concentrations of CP in broiler diet during different phases i.e., pre starter (0-10d), starter (11-21d) and finisher (22-42d). Two levels of CP during pre starter (23 and 21%) and starter (21 and 19%) phases and three levels in finisher phase (19.5, 18 and 16.5%) were tested. The experimental design includes 2 x 2 x 3 levels of CP during pre-starter, starter and finisher phases respectively. The concentrations of lysine, threonine and tryptophan were maintained at the same ratio considering the ideal amino acid ratio (Baker 1996), except methionine which was maintained at 45, 45 and 38% of lysine during pre starter, starter and finisher phases, respectively. The results showed that the broilers fed low levels of CP ( 21 and 19 %) showed significantly higher body weight gain (BWG) and feed intake (FI), and better feed efficiency as compared to the diets with high levels of CP during pre-starter and starter phases (23 and 21%, respectively). The birds fed on higher (19.5%) level of protein in the finisher phase showed higher body weight gain and best feed conversion ratio (FCR) compared to the lower levels (16.5 and 18%). Carcass characters were not influenced by the variation in dietary CP level tested except the abdominal fat weight which was significantly higher in broiler fed low CP diet either all through 1 to 42 d of age or the lower levels of CP during starter and finisher phases compared to those fed higher levels of CP during all three phases. The results showed that the broilers fed low CP had significantly higher protein digestibility compared to the high CP fed birds. Experiment 2 was conducted to test the feasibility of further reducing the dietary CP below the optimum levels determined in Experiment 1, by modulating the levels of critical amino acids without affecting the broiler performance. The control diet (CD) formulated to contain optimum requirements of CP 21, 19 and 19.5% during pre-starter, starter and finisher phases, respectively. The optimum CP levels were further reduced by 1.5% in the basal diet (BD) during all the 3 phases (19.5, 17.5 and 18%, respectively), Four different concentrations of critical amino acids (lysine-Lys, methionine-Met, threonine-Thr and tryptophan-Try) were added to the diet containing sub-optimal levels of CP by maintaining constant ratio in relation to the dietary Lys level as detailed in Experiment 1. In addition to these levels, a diet with CP recommended by NRC was maintained. A diet with CP levels being followed by the broiler industry was maintained (23, 21 and 19.5% in PS, S and F diets respectively) as the reference diet (RD). The performance of broilers fed the CD (21, 19 and 19.5% CP, in PS, S and F, respectively) was similar to those fed the RD or NRC diet. Reduction of CP content by 1.5% (19.5 and 17.5%) than the CD decreased the performance as compared to those fed on CD during pre-starter and starter phases. But the reduced CP during finisher phase (18%) supported the BWG, which was statistically similar to those fed the CD. Increasing levels of critical amino acids (Lys, Met, Thr and Try) in the BD resulted in progressive and significant reduction in the performance. Broilers fed diet with sub-optimal CP had significantly higher abdominal fat compared to those fed with CD, RD and NRC diet. Supplementation of critical amino acids to the sub-optimal protein diet did not influence the abdominal fat deposition. Effect of supplementing three variants of protease (acid, neutral and alkaline) on in vitro digestibility of CP was tested with various graded concentrations of the enzyme in the Experiment 3.Results showed that the individual proteases at 66.66 u/g soybean meal / meat and bone meal had shown maximum protein digestibility. In the maize-soy bean based diets supplemented with alkaline protease had higher protein digestibility. Highest protein digestibility was observed in groups containing 2:1:1 (33.33:16.66:16.66 u/g diet) and 1:1:2 (16.66:16.66:33.33 u/g diet), acidic, neutral and alkaline proteases, respectively. In maize-soya – meat and bone meal based diet, supplementation with acidic (66.98%), alkaline (64.66%) and neutral (60.20%) proteases significantly improved the protein digestibility compared to the control group. Highest protein digestibility was observed in groups containing 2:1:1 (33.33:16.66:16.66 u/g diet) and 1:1:1 (22.22:22.22:22.22 u/g diet), acid, neutral and alkaline proteases, respectively. Based on the in vitro protein digestibility coefficients, 3 effective levels of proteases (2000, 4000 and 6000u/kg) were selected. These effective combinations and concentrations of proteases were supplemented to low CP maize-soybean based diet (1:1:2 and 2:1:1) in Experiment 4 and low CP maize-soybean-meat cum bone meal based diet in Experiment 5 (1:1:1 and 2:1:1) to find out the possibility of reducing the dietary CP (1.5%) below the optimum levels. The results of Experiment 4 showed that the broilers fed high protein diet (CD) had significantly higher BWG and FI as compared to those fed sub optimal CP diets (BD). The feed efficiency was not affected due to the treatments employed. Proteases (acid, neutral and alkaline) supplementation to the BD had no effect on the performance. The relative weight of abdominal fat was significantly (P<0.05) higher in low CP fed birds compared to those fed the CD, but proteases supplementation to BD did not influence the abdominal fat content. The results of Experiment 5 showed that the broilers fed CD had significantly higher BWG compared to those fed BD. Supplementation of proteases to the BD significantly improved the BWG and feed efficiency during 1-21 and 1-28 d of age, but not during the latter phase (35 and 42 d of age) of growth. The broilers fed on CD had significantly higher ready to cook and breast yields compared to those fed the BD or BD the protease supplementation. The relative weight of abdominal fat was significantly reduced in broilers fed with 1:1:1 (acidic, neutral and alkaline proteases) at 4000 u protease / kg diet as compared to BD. In conclusion, the overall picture of study suggested that the dietary CP levels could be reduced below NRC recommended levels by 2-4% in pre-starter, starter diets and to an extent of 0.5% in finisher diet provided that levels of critical amino acids are closely looked after. Addition of proteases to low protein diets did not influence the growth performance of broilers fed maize-soybean meal based diet but it had a significant positive effect on in young chicken fed on maize-soybean meal based-meat and bone meal based diets.ThesisItem Open Access A STUDY ON ASSOCIATIVE EFFECT OF NON-STARCH POLYSACHARIDE DEGRADING ENZYMES WITH PHYTASE, PREBIOTICS AND PROBIOTICS ON PERFORMANCE IN BROILERS AND LAYERS(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY TIRUPATI - 517 502. (A.P.) INDIA, 2011-09) NARASIMHA, JATOTH; NAGALAKSHMI, D(MAJOR); RAMANA REDDY, Y; RAJASEKHARA REDDY, A; SUDHAKAR, K; VIROJI RAO, S.TABSTRACT: A study was undertaken to develop a suitable NSP enzyme combination to improve nutrient utilization from corn-soybean meal based diets for broilers and layers by in vitro and in vivo experiments. Also the associative effect of NSP enzymes with prebiotics, probiotics and phytase was investigated. The broiler and layer diets were supplemented with eight concentrations of xylanase (1000, 2500, 5000, 7500, 10000, 20000, 40000 and 60000 IU/kg), cellulase (50, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200 and 6400 IU/kg) and β-D-glucanase (50, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200 and 6400 IU/kg), three best concentrations of each NSP enzyme was selected for both broiler and layer diets. With these enzyme concentrations, twenty seven (3x3x3) combinations were formulated and among them, the significantly (P<0.01) higher sugars release was recorded for combination of xylanase -7500, cellulase -100 and β-D-glucanase -100 IU/kg/diet for broiler diet and for layer, the NSP enzyme combination was xylanase-10000, cellulase-400 and β-D-glucanase-100 IU/kg and these were selected for conducting in vivo experiments in broilers and layers. The synergistic effect of NSP enzyme and protease was observed in broilers with supplementation of 2000 IU/kg diet. In broiler Experiment-I, 360 day old broiler chicks were weighed, wing banded and randomly distributed in to twelve experimental groups, six replicates per group and five birds per replicate and raised in electrically heated battery brooders to evaluate the effect of the NSP enzyme combination selected from in vitro studies along with or without protease supplemented to four corn-soybean meal based broiler diets varying in energy concentration i.e. standard energy (SD) and three low energy diets, [(-75 (LE1), -150 (LE2) and -225 (LE3) kcal lower ME than SD] on performance, nutrient retentions, carcass traits, gut conditions and cost economics. Significant (P<0.01) interaction of dietary energy concentration and NSP enzymes was observed for body weight gain from week 1 to 6, during starter (0-3 weeks), finisher (4-6 weeks) and total gain (0-6 weeks). The total weight gain was significantly (P<0.01) higher in enzyme supplemented groups in SD, LE1 and LE3. The total body weight gain reduced (P<0.01) with reduction of 225 kcal/ME in diet (LE3) compared to SD. No further improvement was observed with additional supplementation of protease. The feed intake and feed conversion ratio (FCR) significantly (P<0.05) improved with supplementation of NSP enzymes, alone or in combination with protease, irrespective of level of energy. The supplementation of NSP enzymes increased (P<0.05) the organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), crude fibre (CF), ether extract (EE), nitrogen free extract (NFE) and gross energy (GE) retentions and further improvement was observed with addition of protease. Tibia ash content in broilers was not influenced by either the level energy or NSP enzymes supplementation. Irrespective of level of energy, enzyme supplementation with or without protease reduced (P<0.05) intestinal pH, viscosity and E. coli count (cfu/ml). Sections of intestines revealed elongated villi with uniform distribution of goblet cell in NSP enzyme supplemented diets fed birds, where as congested and moderately short ruptured villi were observed in no enzyme fed ones. Dressing and breast yield was un effected by dietary energy but NSP enzyme supplementation increased (P<0.01) the yields. Abdominal fat (%) was lower in LE2, LE3, but no effect of NSP enzyme and protease was observed. Feed cost of production per kg live weight gain for overall period was comparable in SD, LE1 and LE2 and decreased (P<0.01) in LE3. Supplementing NSP enzyme increased (P<0.01) the feed cost of production and further with addition of protease. Based on the Experiment-I findings, LE3 diet was selected for 2nd broiler experiment to study the associative effect of NSP enzymes with prebiotics, probiotics and phytase on broiler performance. Supplementing BD (LE3 diet of Experiment-I) with NSP enzymes with or without prebiotics and phytase had no effect on total body weight gain, while addition of probiotics or synbiotics along with NSP enzymes significantly (P<0.05) improved the total weight gain. Supplementing all feed additives to BD had increased the gain by 7.48%. The overall feed intake was not affected in broilers fed BD or BD supplemented with NSP enzymes along with either, prebiotics, probiotics, phytase or synbiotics. Similarly, supplementation of all feed additives had no effect on feed intake. The FCR improved with addition of NSP enzymes along with either, prebiotics, probiotics or synbiotics. While no associative effect of phytase was observed on FCR. The FCR improved with addition of all feed additives to BD compared to both BD and SD. The retention of OM, CP and GE was significantly (P<0.05) improved with addition of NSP enzymes along with either prebiotics, probiotics or phytase. NSP enzymes with synbiotics had no effect on nutrient retention except GE. BD supplemented with NSP enzymes with phytase and all feed additives improved the retention of OM, CP, NFE, GE and phosphorus indicating synergistic effect of these feed additives. Addition of either prebiotics, probiotics and phytase, individually or combination of all along with NSP enzymes to BD reduced (P<0.05) intestinal pH and viscosity, cost of feeding and cost of production per kg live weight gain compared to BD and SD. The selected enzyme combination for layers from in vitro studies was supplemented to four layer diets varying in dietary energy concentration to investigate the possibility of reducing the energy concentration in the diets with NSP enzymes supplementation. The diets were standard energy diet (2600 kcal ME/kg) (SD) and other three were low energy diets having 100 (LE1), 200 (LE2) and 300 (LE3) kcal lower ME/kg diet than the SD and were fed for three laying periods of twenty eight days. Significant (P<0.01) interaction of dietary energy concentration and NSP enzymes was observed on percent hen day production during 2nd period and such interaction was not observed for 1st and 3rd period. During 2nd period, NSP enzymes supplementation increased the percent hen day production for SD and LE2 and a trend of improvement was observed for LE1 diet with NSP enzymes supplementation. Feed intake was comparable among various groups, in 1st, 2nd and third period. The feed intake was higher (P<0.05) in LE3 compared to SD and LE1 and no effect of NSP enzyme supplementation was observed. No effect of dietary energy or NSP enzymes supplementation was observed on weight changes, dressing yield, abdominal fat, weight of liver and gizzard, tibia ash, egg weight, egg mass, shell thickness and specific gravity of egg. However, breast yield reduced (P<0.05) gradually with lowering of dietary energy and heart weight was higher in SD compared to low energy dietary groups. NSP enzyme supplementation increased (P<0.01) intestinal length. Albumen and yolk index was lower in (P<0.01) LE2 and LE3 groups compared to SD. The mean shell weight in birds fed LE2 or LE3 was significantly (P<0.05) higher than those fed SD and LE1. Irrespective of level of energy, NSP enzymes addition significantly (P<0.01) improved the utilization of DM, OM, CP, CF, EE, NFE and GE. Intestinal pH, viscosity and E. coli count was reduced (P<0.01) in NSP enzymes supplemented groups compared to un supplemented ones. The sections of intestines revealed elongated broad and dividing villi with increased number of goblet cell in NSP enzymes supplemented groups irrespective of level of energy. The feed cost to produce dozen eggs was higher (P<0.05) for LE3 compared to SD and irrespective of dietary energy, NSP enzymes supplementation reduced the feed cost of production. The LE3 diet was selected to test the additive effect of supplementing NSP enzymes with prebiotics or probiotics and phytase. The percent hen day production was not affected by supplementation of NSP enzymes along with prebiotics or probiotics but improved with addition of phytase or synbiotics with NSP enzymes. Feed intake (g/bird/day), FCR (g/feed/g egg) and egg quality traits and slaughter attributes were not affected by supplementation of various feed additives (NSP enzymes, prebiotics, probiotics and phytase) alone or their combination. The DM, OM and NFE retention was comparable among the experimental groups. Supplementation of NSP enzymes along with other feed additives, (probiotics and phytase) improved (P<0.05) retention of CP, CE, EE, GE and phosphorus and no associative effect of prebiotics was observed on nutrient retention. Intestinal pH, viscosity and E. coli count in feed additives supplemented groups was significantly (P<0.05) reduced compared to un supplemented ones. The feed cost per dozen eggs did not increase with supplementation of NSP enzymes alone or along with either of prebiotics, probiotics, phytase or synbiotics and was comparable to SD. While supplementing all the feed additives to BD significantly (P<0.05) reduced to the feed cost per dozen eggs compared to BD and SD. From this study, it can be concluded that supplementing NSP enzyme combinations developed from in vitro studies improved body weight gain feed conversion efficiency in broilers and egg production in layers fed corn-soybean meal based diets varying in energy concentration with improvement in nutrient retentions and gut health. Associative effect of NSP enzymes with either prebiotics, probiotics or phytase was observed for nutrient retentions and gut health at reduced cost of production in both broilers and layers.ThesisItem Open Access PRODUCTIVE AND REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF BROILER RABBITS UNDER TWO HOUSING SYSTEMS SUPPLEMENTED WITH DIETARY PROBIOTICS AND ENZYMES(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY TIRUPATI - 517 502. (A.P.) INDIA, 2011-08) SARAT CHANDRA, A; MAHENDER, M(MAJOR); RAGHUNANDAN, T; RAMESH GUPTA, B; GNANA PRAKASH, M; KONDAL REDDY, KABSTRACT : Studies were conducted on 144 weaned rabbits reared in cage and backyard rearing systems up to 16 weeks of age to study the influence of housing system and supplementation of probiotics and enzymes or both, on the productive and reproductive performance and health. A digestibility trial was conducted to assess the effect of different rations on digestibility of nutrients. Forty eight rabbits were slaughtered at 16 weeks of age and remaining rabbits were reared until first kindling to assess their reproductive performance. The overall least-squares mean body weights at 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 and 16 weeks of age were 568.29 ± 4.82, 690.34 ± 4.77, 963.44 ± 9.45, 1141.44 ± 7.69, 1322.17 ± 6.27 and 1499.15 ± 6.30 g, respectively with cage reared rabbits recording significantly (P≤0.05) higher body weights. In rabbits reared under cage and backyard systems, the effects of breed and ration were significant at most of the ages. In general, rabbits fed rations supplemented with enzymes and probiotics or both had significantly higher body weights at all ages. The overall least-squares mean ADGs were 18.21 ± 0.55, 20.72 ± 0.72, 18.19 ± 0.44, 13.15 ± 0.57, 10.89 ± 0.49 and 12.52 ± 0.62 g during 4 to 6, 6 to 8, 8 to 10, 10 to 12, 12 to 14 and 14 to 16 weeks of age, respectively. Cage reared rabbits recorded significantly higher ADG at most of the ages studied. Ration had significant (P≤0.05) effect on the ADGs during 4 to 6, 10 to12 and 12 to 14 weeks only. Backyard reared rabbits fed T4 and T2 rations recorded significantly higher ADG 4 to 6. The overall least-squares mean voluntary dry matter intake was 115.07 ± 4.48 g . Rabbits fed rations T3 and T4 recorded significantly (P≤0.05) higher DMI in both the systems of housing. The digestibility coefficients of dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, crude fiber, ether extract and nitrogen free extract were 72.64 ± 1.26, 73.10 ± 1.23, 78.61 ± 1.03, 71.59 ± 1.32, 81.12 ± 1.34 and 70.80 ± 1.46 respectively. In both the housing systems, rabbits fed experimental diets recorded significantly higher digestibility coefficients than control group. Significantly higher pre-slaughter weight (2014.29 + 47.21), dressed weight (994.40 + 26.01), fore and mid cut weights (296.25 + 10.36 and 230.63 + 6.48) and inedible offals (374.25 + 9.73 vs. 346.71 + 9.73) were recorded by cage reared rabbits. The overall mean dressing percentage and weights of hind cut, head and feet, pelt and edible offals and the length of caecum were 49.38 + 0.19, 457.13 + 10.14, 253.46 + 5.19, 198.21 + 3.91 and 67.85 + 0.84 g and 49.06 + 0.40 cm, respectively. Influence of experimental diets was significant on hind cut weight and length of caecum in cage system while all the carcass traits except pelt weight were significantly influenced in backyard system. Meat protein and fat percentage were significantly high in cage reared rabbits. The overall mean dry matter (%), total ash (%), protein (%), fat (%) and cholesterol (mg %) contents of meat were 20.66 + 0.08, 1.29 + 0.01, 21.29 + 0.12, 4.05 + 0.02 and 0.10 + 0.00, respectively. The protein content was significantly high in the rabbits fed ration 3 and 4 while the fat content was significantly high in the rabbits fed with control ration in cage reared and backyard reared rabbits. Rabbits housed in cages had lower AFK (217.25 + 1.69 days). The overall mean litter size and weight at birth were 6.83 + 0.26 bunnies and 337.64 + 12.73 g, respectively. Mean total erythrocyte count, leucocyte count, haemoglobin content, PCV, neutrophils, lymphocytes, eosinophils, monocytes, blood glucose, serum cholesterol, SGPT, SGOT, Serum protein, Albumin, Globulin and AG ratio were 7.52 0.12 x106/mm³, 6.29 0.08 x103/mm³, 10.77 0.06 g/dl, 34.25 0.37%, 35.71 1.03%, 60.27 1.38%, 1.35 0.14%, 1.92 0.13, 123.79 2.69 mg/dl, 123.67 ± 1.66 mg/dl, 18.17 ± 0.50 IU/dl, 28.04 ± 0.73 IU/dl, 6.20 ± 0.09 g/dl, 4.08 ± 0.08 g/dl, 2.11 ± 0.06 g/dl and 1.93 ± 0.09, respectively. The overall mean SRBC titre was 6.63 ± 0.20 log2 units. In both the housing systems, significantly high SRBC titers were recorded by rabbits fed rations 3 and 4. In general, it was observed that rabbits kept in backyard were more active, aggressive and burrowing was observed. Immediately after weaning and during nights, rabbits preferred to stay together in backyard system. Rabbits in the backyard preferred to stay on the cemented kerb. The cost of feed per kg gain was reduced by Rs. 1.20, 3.63 and 2.89 in cage reared rabbits and Rs. 1.10, 5.61 and 4.4 in backyard reared rabbits fed rations supplemented with enzymes (T1), probiotic (T2) and probiotic +enzymes (T3) over control ration, respectively. The present study recorded higher growth in broiler rabbits, but the difference in the body weight of broiler rabbits under two systems of housing was not significant, suggesting that rabbit farming for meat production can profitably be taken up under backyard system, which requires less capital investment and provides valuable animal protein and remunerative income to the farmers. The inclusion of enzymes and probiotics to the diets had a positive effect on the utilization of dietary nutrients and also reduced the cost per kg weight gain, which emphasizes that the cost of feeding in rabbit farming can be reduced by utilization of forages especially legumes and by products replacing the costly feed ingredients. Thus, rabbit farming as a small enterprise can be recommended for small and marginal farmers, to improve the quality of diet and as a steady source of income.ThesisItem Open Access RELATIVE EFFICIENCY OF ORGANIC ACIDS (in vitro and in vivo) ON THE EXCLUSION OF ANTIBIOTIC (Virginiamycin) FROM DIETS AND ENHANCEMENT OF CALCIUM AND PHOSPHOROUS IN BROILERS(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY TIRUPATI - 517 502. (A.P.) INDIA, 2011-08) VIJAYA LAKSHMI, K; Raja Sekhar Reddy, A(MAJOR); Ravinder Reddy, V; Shyam Sundar, G; Naga Lakshmi, D; Reddy, Y.NABSTRACT : Antibiotics are used in poultry feeds for antimicrobial effect, and also for growth promotion, but are now banned because of drug resistance and residual effects through egg and meat consumption. As feed acidifiers, organic acids (C1-C7) are associated with antimicrobial activity and growth promotion, and therefore considered as valuable replacers for antibiotics. However, the studies conducted so far on organic acids projected variable results, primarily due to pKa values and molecular weights that determine the antimicrobial and growth promoting effects. In order to examine the expression of organic acids, a series of trials in vitro and in vivo were under taken with closely (Propionic acid -PA and Butyric acid-BA) and remotely related (Lactic acid -LA and Citric acid-CA) acids to decipher information on their utility in broiler chicken. PA and BA with relatively high pKa and low molecular weight, were expected to possess higher antimicrobial effect and hence, their inclusion levels were kept low (0.1% - 0.3%) in diets, and conversely for LA and CA (1-3%). In vitro experiments exhibited growth inhibition of E.coli (serotype O: 109 at 106CFU/ml) with all levels of PA and BA (0.1, 0.2 or 0.3%) and, LA and CA (1, 2 or 3%) inclusion in diets compared to the control. The antimicrobial effect was more pronounced at pH 4 within 5 h, which continued up to 24 h, and the vice versa at pH 7.4, indicating a complimentary effect between the organic acids and low pH in reducing the E.coli count. Oral administration of E.coli culture into the crop at 21d of age reduced body weight, FCR and livability of broilers at 42 d, which was effectively corrected by organic acids. These organic acids significantly reduced the bacterial load in duodenal digesta by 3.6 -7.7% compared to antibiotic and control diets, the maximum decline was observed with PA. The in vivo trials with PA or BA inclusion in diets significantly (P<0.05) enhanced broiler body weights (8-10%), FCR, tibia weight, tibia length, breast muscle, intestinal growth, immune response, lymphoid organ weights, and reduced abdominal fat (7.5%) compared to AB and control diet. PA or BA at 0.2% level was either more effective or equivalent to 0.3% level and hence, the former can be used in broiler diets. Organic acids stimulated the growth of small intestine, increased villi length, crypt width and improved goblet cell activity (duodenum), the maximum being with BA, which enhanced nutrient absorption and growth over antibiotic and control diets. Similarly, LA or CA at 2% level improved body weight (9.6-10.9%) and FCR (7.75 - 8.9%) compared to AB and control diets. LA produced higher meat yield (3.1%), breast meat (9.7%) and small intestine weight (45%) compared to control, and decreased abdominal fat. LA or CA in diets maintained significantly low pH in the crop (4.45), proventriculus (3.15) and gizzard (2.38) than the AB diet implying better absorption of nutrients from the gut, due to acidification. The histological studies of duodenum revealed a moderate mono nuclear cell infiltration in duodenal villi and intense activity of goblet cells due to dietary acidification. Further, the feeding trials involving different levels of Ca: P (0.9:0.45%; 0.7:0.35%; 0.5:0.25%) with organic acids, antibiotic and control diets revealed a complementary effect between moderately low level of Ca: P (0.7:0.35%) and organic acids measured in terms of broiler growth, FCR and leg scores, serum Ca: P concentrations and protein deposition in breast muscle that were on par with Ca: P at 0.90:0.45%. Diets with Ca: P at 0.90:0.45% level and BA produced maximum Ca retention in tibia, while PA influenced higher P retention. The extent of decline in bone measures and mineralization due to low Ca: P (0.5:0.25%) was considerably reduced by the intervention of organic acids compared to AB and control diets. The influence of organic acids was also reflected from the sustained higher serum Ca (21%) and P (32.1%), besides that in bone (Ca>4.6% and P>10.5%) compared to antibiotic and control diets. The apparent digestibility of nutrients, particularly that of protein, Ca and P was higher with acidified diets. Interestingly, the digestibility of protein, Ca and P was inversely related to the levels of Ca: P in diet. Organic acids in combination with Ca and P at 0.9:0.45% level supported more protein accretion and less fat deposition in breast muscle and liver tissue. LA and CA in diets enhanced breast meat yield (5.6%), reduced abdominal fat (18.7%) and serum cholesterol (11%) compared to the control diet. It can be concluded that individually all organic acids (Propionic, Butyric, Lactic and Citric acids) effectively sanitized the upper GI tract from E.coli, better than antibiotics, and significantly enhanced broiler performance at 35 and 42 d of age. The ideal inclusion levels of PA or BA (0.2-0.3%) were low compared to LA and CA (2-3%), primarily due to pKa values and molecular weights. Organic acids maintained suitable environment in the intestine and stimulated its morphological and histological growth, which supported higher nutrient absorption, broiler growth, breast meat with more percentage of protein, less water and low fat content and higher Ca and P retention. The antibiotics can be effectively replaced from feed with organic acids.ThesisItem Open Access TOXICODYNAMIC INTERACTION OF LEAD WITH CADMIUM AND THERAPEUTIC EVALUATION OF N-ACETYL L-CYSTEINE IN RATS(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY TIRUPATI - 517 502. (A.P.) INDIA, 2011-07) ANlL KUMAR, B; GOPALA REDDY, A(MAJOR); RAVl KUMAR, P; MADHAVA RAO, T; ANAND KUMAR, AABSTRACT: An experimental study was conducted to evaluate the molecular mechanisms of lead and cadmium toxicity and their toxicodynamic interaction, and to evaluate therapeutic potential of N-Acetyl L-cysteine (NAC) against the toxicity in Wstar rats. After an acclimatization period of 2 weeks, rats were randomly divided into 8 groups comprising of 6 rats in each. Group 1 was kept as normal control throughout the experimental period, 2 was given NAC @ 300 mg per kg body weight administered by oral gavage, 3 was given lead (lead acetate @ I000 ppm in feed), 4 was given cadmium (cadmium chloride @ 300 ppm in feed), 5 was given lead + cadmium as per above doses in feed, 6 was given lead + NAC as per above schedule, 7 was given cadmium + NAC as per above schedule, and group 8 was given lead + cadmium + NAC as per above schedule for 3 months. Body weights, haematology (TEC, TLC, Hb, PCV, MCH and MCHC), activity of 6-ALAD and erythrocytic SOD, sero-biochemical parameters (ALT, CPK, troponins, plasma TBARS and serum creatinine), antioxidant profile (GSH, GST, TBARS and protein carbonyls) in liver, kidney, heart, testis and brain, ATPases and tissue lipids in liver and brain, neurotransmitters (Ach and glutamate) in brain, CYP450, glycogen and G6PD in liver, weight of testes, testicular LDH and sperm count, electron microscopy of kidney in cadmium exposed groups and histopathology of liver, kidney, testis and heart were studied. Also, interaction of lead and cadmium with zinc and copper in liver, kidney, heart, testis and brain was assessed. The present study revealed significant alterations in body weights, haematology, sero-biochemical parameters, antioxidant profile, ATPases, tissue lipid profile, neurotransmitter, CYPd50, glycogen, GGPD, weights of testes, testicular LDH, sperm count, and concentration of zinc and copper in toxic control groups 3, 4 and 5 as compared to control and NAC-treated groups. The toxic combination (Pb + Cd) group 5 showed significant alterations in most of the parameters studied as compared to Pb alone and Cd alone administered groups. All the NAC-treated groups revealed significant improvement in all the parameters. The histological studies of liver, kidney, testis and brain revealed marked changes in toxic control groups, while therapeutic groups revealed mild changes or no pathologically significant changes. Groups 1 and 2 were devoid of any alterations. The electron microscopy of kidney revealed marked alterations in kidney architecture in groups 4 and 5, while groups 7 and 8 revealed better architecture. The results of the investigation revealed that lead, cadmium' and their combination induced toxicity to the biological system due to the excess generation of free radicals and impairment of antioxidant defenses. Toxic effects were more pronounced in the group that received a combination of lead and cadmium suggesting positive toxicodynamic interaction. Use of NAC countered the adverse effects of lead and cadmium induced toxicity to a major extent suggesting its antioxidant potential owing to replenishment of tissue pool of GSH. Further, NAC administration reduced the extent of accumulation of lead and cadmium in various tissues.ThesisItem Open Access ADAPTABILITY AND PERFORMANCE OF SAHIWAL AND JERSEY x SAHIWAL CROSSBRED COWS IN TROPICAL CONDITIONS(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY TIRUPATI - 517 502. (A.P.) INDIA, 2011-05) SREEDHAR, SURATANI; Sarjan Rao, K(MAJOR); Suresh, J; Moorthy, P.R.S; Padmanabha Reddy, VABSTRACT: A study was conducted on adaptability and performance of pure Sahiwal and Jersey x Sahiwal crossbred cows, performance of bulls of Sahiwal and Jersey x Sahiwal crossbreds and on farm studies on the performance of the Jersey x Sahiwal crosses in tropical conditions. The physiological responses, biochemical constituents of the above animals were recorded. The production traits, reproduction traits and milk constituents were studied on twelve cows each from Sahiwal and Jersey x Sahiwal cows using Completely Randomized Design (CRD). To study the performance of bulls, tour Sahiwal bulls were selected at Dairy Experimental Station, and four Jersey x Sahiwal bulls from farmers house hold. The meteorological parameters viz. Temperature Humidity Index, Relative Humidity (%), evaporation (mm), wind velocity (kmph) and sun shine (hours) recorded during the study period of 2 1 days were ranged from 81.3-86.9, 37.0-61.0. 2.7-8.6, 5.1-1 1.3 and 2.0-9.3 with mean values of 84.4, 47.5. 6.8. 6.7 and 5.5. respectively. The rectal temperature ("F) of Sahiwal heifers, Sahiwal cows and Jersey x Sahiwal cows during the adaptability period of 21 days were ranged from 101.43*0.04 to 103.6MO.18, 101.1&0.02 to 103.13+0.16 and 101.35*0.03 to 103.65f0.18, respectively. The respiration rate of Sahiwal heifers, Sahiwal cows and Jersey x Sahiwal cows were ranged from 28.4k0.1 to 41.7k0.6, 26.8 +0.10 to 38.8+0.40 and 28.3&0.10 to 43.5k0.40 breaths per minute, respectively. The rectal temperature and respiration rate were highly significantly (p<0.01) different among Sahiwal heifers, Sahiwal cows and Jersey x Sahiwal cows. The changes in pulse rate of Sahiwal heifers, Sahiwal cows and Jersey x Sahiwal cows were ranged £+om 59.33* 0.45 to 76.0-1 -50, 59.67 *0.3 1 to 75.33k1.56 and 60.67*0.40 to 78.17*1.36 per minute, respectively. A non significant difference was observed for pulse rate between Sahiwal heifers and Sahiwal cows whereas a highly significant @<0.01) variation was recorded with Jersey x Sahiwal crossbred cows in relation to environmental traits. Temperature Humidity Index (THI) was highly significantly w0.01) wrrelated with rectal temperature, respiration rate and pulse rate in Sahiwal heifers and Sahiwal cows and significantly (pe0.05) correlated in Jersey x Sahiwal crossbred cows. The average temperature significantly (p<0.05) influenced the rectal temperature, respiration rate and pulse rate in all the three groups of experimental animals, while the evaporation was significantly (pC0.05) wrrelated with rectal temperature, respiration rate and pulse rate of Jersey x Sahiwal crossbred wws. Negative correlation was observed between wind velocity and rectal temperature, respiration rate and pulse rate of three groups of experimental animals. The sunshine was found to have highly significant (~0.01)co rrelation with rectal temperature, respiration rate and pulse rate of Jersey x Sahiwal crossbred wws. The IHTC and BCA of Sahiwal heifers, Sahiwal cows and Jersey x Sahiwal cows were ranged from 74.0W0.42 to 95.67k1.8, 94.2+0.5 to 95.w0.5 and 73.5M0.31 to 96.5W2.89 and 2.24k0.01 to 2.84*0.03, 2.17+0.01 to 2.72f0.02 and 2.24*0.01 to 2.92+0.02, respectively. The IHTC and BCA values were highly significantly @<0.01) different among Sahiwal heifers, cows and Jersey x Sahiwal crossbred cows. The DSI of Sahiwal heifers, cows and Jersey x Sahiwal cows were ranged from 0.95+0.61 to 1.1 1k0.01, 0.94*0.01 to 1.09-1.0.01 and 0.95*0.01 to 1.1 1+0.01, respectively. The DSI values were comparable between Sahiwal heifers and Sahiwal cows but highly significantly (p<0.01) different with Jersey x Sahiwal crossbred cows. The average values of IHTC, BCA and DSI in Sahiwal heifers, Sahiwal cows and Jersey x Sahiwal cows became nearest to their respective optimum values of 100, 2.0 and 1 .O, respectively, within short period (3 days) in Sahiwal cows and longer period (9 days) for Jersey x Sahiwal cows. The haematocrit values (%) of Sahiwal heifers, Sahiwal cows and Jersey x Sahiwal cows were ranged from 29.17+1.22 to 68.0& 1.06, 3 1 -0W1.46 to 67.0M 1.06 and 3 1.17k1.17 to 75.83*0.59, respectively. A non significant difference was observed in haematocrit values of Sahiwal heifers and cows, whereas a highly significant (p<0.01) variation was recorded with Jersey x Sahiwal crossbred cows. The serum glucose, urea and creatinine levels (mddl) of Sahiwal heifers, Sahiwal cows and Jersey x Sahiwal cows were ranged fiom 61.9-1.34 to 97.32k0.63, 58.61k1.20 to 96.9M0.65 and 59.26k0.58 to 113.33k0.71, 11.72k0.94 to 47.21k0.64, 1 1.7W0.65 to 45.44k0.42 and 14.0M0.58 to 63.99k0.41 and 1.251t0.07 to 9.81+0.13, 1.2W0.09 to 9.90.tO. 17 and 1.43k0.10 to 16.18k0.15, respectively. The average serum glucose values were highly significantly (p<0.01) different among all the experimental animals during adaptability. The serum calcium, phosphorous and magnesium levels (mgldl) of Sahiwal heifers, Sahiwal cows and Jersey x Sahiwal cows were ranged from 10.5W0.29 to 27.17M.29, 10.84+0.27 to 26.61+0.46 and 10.45+0.33 to 36.76*0.71, 5.85*0.05 to 18.91+0.2 1, 5.94k0.08 to 18.87k0.12 and 5.88k0.10 to 20.8W0.13 and 1 -95d0.03 to 1 1.16&0.09, 2.0W.06 to 10.85*0.19 and 1.95k0.03 to 15.120.15. respectively. A non significant difference was observed in serum calcium and phosphorous levels for Sahiwal heifers and Sahiwal cows, whereas a highly significant @<0.01) variation was recorded for Jersey x Sahiwal crossbred cows in relation to adaptability. The sodium and potassium levels (mgldl) of Sahiwal heifers, Sahiwal cows and Jersey x Sahiwal cows were ranged from 140.23*2.09 to 183.62st1.25, 137.37k1.38 to 178.521.02 and 137.91A0.75 to 185.6%1.15 and 4.47.tO.20 to 13.21+0.15, 4.38A0.08 to 12.88rt0.08 and 4.41*0.13 to 18.8&0.11, respectively. The average sodium and potassium levels were highly significantly (~0.01)d ifferent among Sahiwal heifers, Sahiwal cows and Jersey x Sahiwal cows. The influence of environmental traits on liver function tests from SGOT and SGPT levels (units/l) of Sahiwal heifers, Sahiwal cows and Jersey x Sahiwal cows were ranged from 91.15zk3.62 to 178.87A1.49, 95.37~t2.52 to 165.74+1.11 and 82.78&0.29 to 188.48rt0.32 and 25.04*1.50 to 57.19rt0.72, 27.8-2.29 to 57.27a.77 and 17.52*0.40 to 74.72M.93, respectively. Highly significant (pc0.01) variation was recorded with SGOT levels in Jersey x Sahiwal crossbred cows and SGPT levels of all the three experimental animals during 2 1 days adaptation period. The average birth weight (kg) of Sahiwal and Jersey x Sahiwal calves were 23.8w0.87 and 26.98+0.97, respectively. The mean body weight gain (kg) of Sahiwal calves and Jersey x Sahiwal crossbred calves were 34.08*5.69 and 34.47+5.99, respectively at the end of 24 weeks. The maximum body weight gain was observed at 24 weeks in Jersey x Sahiwal calves. The mean ADG of Sahiwal and Jersey x Sahiwal calves were 344*7.9 and 365Zk11.0, respectively. The maximum average daily gain was observed at 8-10 weeks in Sahiwal calves whereas in Jersey x Sahiwal cows, peak ADG obtained at 6-8 weeks during 16-1 8 weeks of growth period. The mean 90 days milk yield, lactation milk yield, peak yield, average daily milk yield and 305 days milk yield in Sahiwal cows were 793.17*7.75, 2039.5zk30.14, 1 1.03*0.14, 6.90rt0.09 and 2109~k27.68 kg, respectively. The days to attain peak yield and lactation length in Sahiwal cows were 33.33*1.25 and 295.58*2.95 days and the persistence index observed as 2.53+0.04. The average 90 days milk yield, lactation milk yield, peak yield, average daily milk yield and 305 days milk yield in Jersey x Sahiwal cows were 1099.2* 10.96, 3 156.6*3 1.16, 14.2 1 1t0.14, 10.33Zk0.11 and 3164.8k32.53 kg, respectively. The days to attain peak yield and lactation length in Jersey x Sahiwal cows were 26.0M1.26 and 305.75~k1.95 days and the persistence index observed as 3.05k0.03. At farmer's house hold the average 90 days milk yield, lactation milk yield, peak yield, average daily milk yield and 305 days milk yield in Jersey x Sahiwal cows were 997.6+8.48, 3131.7*31.02, 10.2+0.16, 8.86+0.10 and 2777.2+26.15 kg, respectively. The days to attain peak yield and lactation length in Jersey x Sahiwal cows were 45.2~k1.33 and 3541t4.77 days and the persistence index observed was 2.84~k0.03. The analysis of variance revealed that all the milk yield traits were highly significantly (p<0.01) different between Sahiwal and Jersey x Sahiwal cows both at dairy experimental station and Jersey x Sahiwal cows of Progeny Testing Programme at farmers house hold. The mean fat percent of the milk in Sahiwal and Jersey x Sahiwal cows was 4.91k0.19 and 4.54*0.16, respectively, whereas the fat percent was decreased from 1'' to 3d week and later gradually increased up to 131h week of lactation. Maximum fat yield (%) was observed in 12'~w eek for Sahiwal (5.3M0.20) and 13w~eek for Jersey x Sahiwal crossbred (4.9-0.12) wws. The mean SNF percent of the milk in Sahiwal and Jersey x Sahiwal cows was 9.02&0.07 and 8.67*0.10, respectively, whereas the SNF percent was decreased from la to 3d week and later gradually increased up to 13* week of lactation. Maximum levels of SNF were recorded during 13& week in Sahiwal cows and 7* week in Jersey x Sahiwal wws. 8.67*0.10. The protein content (%) of the milk in Sahiwal and Jersey x Sahiwal cows were 3.5W0.04 and 3.5W0.01, respectively. Maximum levels of protein were recorded during 11" week in Sahiwal cows and 7" week in Jersey x Sahiwal wws. The mean density of the milk in Sahiwal and Jersey x Sahiwal wws were 30.97*0.24 and 30.1B0.22, respectively. The fat and SNF contents of milk were highly significantly (~(0.01) different between Sahiwal and Jersey x Sahiwal cows, whereas Sahiwal cows had higher fat and SNF yield. Highly significant @<0.01) variation was also observed between Sahiwal and Jersey x Sahiwal cows, during different weeks of lactation. Non significant difference was observed with respect to protein content of the milk in Sahiwal and Jersey x Sahiwal cows whereas highly significant w0.01) variation was found in the density of milk from Sahiwal and Jersey x Sahiwal cows. The mean fat (%), SNF (%), protein (%) and density of the milk in Jersey x Sahiwal cows at farmer's household were 4.91rt0.1, 7.97*0.15, 3.08*0.05 and 28.93*0.32, respective1 y. The mean age at first calving, gestation period, dry period, service period and calving interval (days) in Sahiwal and Jersey x Sahiwal cows at dairy experimental station were 1223.25+9.77, 282.67*0.53, 1 5 1.0M3.27, 163.92j14.20 and 446.58k4.16 and 985.17k11.41. 281.58&0.38. 123.33~t5.28. 148.0M5.97 and 429.58*6.10. respectively. At farmers household, the above reproductive traits in Jersey x Sahiwal cows were 1237.%13.09, 282.3f0.37, 198.3k3.77, 270~k5.06 and 552.3*5.02 days. The results showed that the mean age at first calving, dry period, service period and calving interval in Jersey x Sahiwal cows were lower than Sahiwal cows. The mean values of the same reproductive traits in Jersey x Sahiwal cows of Progeny Testing Programme were higher than the mean values of Sahiwal cows. The mean gestation period was similar in all groups. The analysis of variance revealed highly significant (pThesisItem Open Access AMELIORATION OF HEAT STRESS INDUCED OXIDATIVE DISTURBANCES BY HERBAL ANTIOXIDANTS IN BROILER CHICKEN(SRI VENKATESWARA VETERINARY UNIVERSITY TIRUPATI - 517 502. (A.P.) INDIA, 2011-04) SWATHI, B; Gupta, P.S.P(MAJOR); Nagalaxmi, D; Rajasekhar Reddy, A; RaJu, M.V.L.NABSTRACT: A study was petformed to evaluate the antioxidative potential of herbals Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) and Turmeric (Curcuma longa) in combating heat stress with two batches of broiler chicks in hot summer months. Each batch consisted of a total of 108 one day OM Vencobb broiler chicks which were grouped and offered 9 types of dietary regimens wtth variable concentrations and combinations of antioxidants. A group of 12 chicks was raised separately in stress free environment on basal diet without any antioxidant supplementation as control. Body weights and feed intake were measured at weekly intentab. The blood samples were colleded at 4" and 6" wk of age and haernatological estimations (RBC, WBC, Hb. & PCV) were carried out within 2 hrs of collection. While serum samples were preserved at -20°C until utilized for estimation of protein profiles (TP, albumen, globulin concentrations and A:G ratios), serum cortisol concentrations, humoral and cell mediated immune responses. Plasma samples were prepared by centrifugation, stored and utilized for analysis of enzymatic and non enzymatic antioxidant concentration. At the end of trail, breast and meat samples were procured by excision of sacrificed birds for studying organoleptic properties and lipid peroxidation. Histopathological studies of liver, bursa, brain and spleen were conducted to observe the tissue changes at the end of the experiment. The performance parameters (Body weights and feed efficiency), haernatologoical parameters (RBC, Hb. PCV and WBC), enzymatic (GSH-PX, Catalase and SOD), non enzymatic (Reducedglutathione) antioxidant concentrations, immunological indices (HI titers and CMI responses) were signifiintly low (PsO.01) in heat stressed birds compared to control and antioxidant supplemented groups. However, WBC count, serum cortisol concentrations, serum ALP and ALT activities were significantly (PS0.01) higher in heat stressed birds compared to control group. Histopathological study evidenced degenerative changes and pathological lesions in tissues collected from heat 8tmssed birds, While no lesions of pathological importance were observed with the tissues d control group. Sensory chamderistics of breast meat samples from heat stressed birds scored low on 5 point hedonic scale (3.42 for colour, 3.12 for texture, 3.42 for juiciness, 3.22 for tlavour and 3.14 for overall acceptability) compared to higher scores recorded for meat samples of control group. Dietary supplementation with herbals Tulsi and Turmeric was proved beneficial in terms of broiler performance, haematological, serological values. immunological indims and antioxidant status. Their inclusion also contributed to low levels of serum cortisol and improved sensory characteristics and reduced lipoperoxidative damage of broiler meat. Of the two herbals employed for the study. Turmeric had contributed to hgher body weights (1629.17 g and 1627.50 g with 0.2% and 0.4% level of inclusions, respectively), which were comparable with the weights achieved by supplementing the diet either with vitamin E alone (1637.52 g) and its combination with Selenium (1656.67 g) end control group (1684.17 g) at the end of 6'" week, Feed efficiency though low in the initial stages, an accelerated trend was noticed from 4m wk onwards wrth Turmeric supplementation. And even sensory attributes showed higher sensory scores with Turmeric supplementation at either of the dose. While, Tulsi, contributed to significantly (Ps0.01) higher concentration of enzymatic and non enzymatic antioxidants, blood and serum variables, and immunological indices at either of the dose supplemented. Herbals at higher concentration (Ocimum at 0.5% and Turmeric at 0.4%) had shown improved antioxidant -8. However, the two herbals when given in combination at different doses could not yield any additive effect. The benefdal results obtained with the supplementation of herbals at different doses were however remained low when compared to the values obtained with the diets inclusive of vitamin E alone, or its combination with Se and control group. But, considering the cost of these synthetic antioxidants vitamin E and Se and maintaining the birds in stress free environment, the herbals employed Tulsi and Turmeric in this study may be suggested as natural and economical alternatives in amelioration of heat stress and achieving higher performance