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ThesisItem Open Access DYNAMICS OF URBANIZATION IN THE LIVELIHOOD OF LIVESTOCK FARMERS IN THE PERI-URBAN AREAS OF GUWAHATI CITY(College of Veterinary Science, Assam Agricultural University, Khanapara, Guwahati, 2021-12) Choudhury, Parag Sankar; Hazarika, PulinSince urbanization is described under specific conditions and time period so going by the changes in the livelihood of livestock farmers in the Deepor Beel areas a study entitled “Dynamics of Urbanization in the Livelihood of Livestock Farmers in the Peri-Urban Areas of Guwahati city” is taken up which will give an insight into the livelihood status of the villagers in a holistic way. The study was conducted in the peri-urban areas in and around Deepor Beel in five revenue villages which was purposively selected namely Pamehi, Mikirpara, Chakardoe, Lakhara and Azara with four objectives-1) To study the socio- economic status of the livestock farmers in the fringe areas of Deepor Beel. 2) To explore the implications of rural-urban linkages in the livelihood of livestock farmers in the study area. 3) To find out the factors that influences the intensity of market participation of the farmers in Deepor Beel. 4) To study the relationship of rural urban linkages and intensity of market participation on socio-economic status of the farmers. Livestock farmers having two or more species of animals including poultry birds in their backyard were taken into account as respondents in the study. 20 livestock farmers from 5 revenue villages were taken into account to make a total sample size of 100. The data was collected personally by visiting the selected respondents through the use of a pretested, reliable and valid interview schedule. Data so collected was compiled, analyzed, tabulated and interpreted using appropriate statistical methods and software. Majority of the respondents (68.00 per cent) belonged to middle age group and average age was found to be around 43.82 years. Again majority, i.e., 71.00 per cent of the respondents were male. Further, majority of the farmers (87.00 per cent) were married and again majority (78.00 per cent) resided as nuclear family. It was observed that 82.00 per cent of livestock farmers had medium sized family with 5-6 members and majority of them (39.00 per cent) belonged to Scheduled Tribe category. Moreover, 76.00 per cent of respondents had education up to high school level and it was found from the study that 73.00 per cent of the respondents had medium herd size ranging from 1.91 to 14.58 cattle equivalent units. Again, majority (67.00 per cent) of respondents had medium level of experience in livestock farming ranging from 13.26 years to 34.54 years. However, in case of land holdings, majority of them (68.00 per cent) had low land holding i.e., <0.76 acres. It was indicated that majority (59.00 per cent) of respondents revealed medium distance from home to market (2.62 kms to 6.61 kms) and 99.00 per cent of the respondents reported good transportation/access to market. Again, majority (64.00 per cent) of livestock farmers was found to have medium exposure to mass media and majority of them (48.00 per cent) had medium extension contact. Moreover, Majority (69.00 per cent) of livestock farmers had medium annual family income from livestock and poultry (Rs. 14339.84 to Rs. 33142.16). Majority (66.00 per cent) of the livestock farmers belonged to medium income category on including annual income from all sources (Rs. 17118.00 to Rs. 287942.00). On assessing four sub-areas of implications namely social implications, implications on asset-base, implications on information flow and implications of house hold economy it was indicated that implications on asset- based is highest followed by household economy on livelihood of livestock farmers. A sum of total implications on mean, S.D. and range was found to be 46.82, 4.57 and 32-54 respectively. On distribution of respondents on the basis of implications of rural-urban linkages in the livelihood of livestock farmers it was further observed that majority of respondents (71.00 per cent) were in medium category. Furthermore, on distribution of respondents on basis of Intensity of Market Participation of Livestock Farmers on basis of 13 indicator statements it was found that majority of livestock farmers (66.00 per cent) were in medium category. In co-relational analysis age with respect to implications had a positive and significant correlation (r= 0.223*) among the livelihood of livestock farmers in rural-urban linkage. However, years of experience on livestock farming of the livestock farmers to implications was negatively and significantly correlated (r= -0.197*). Mass media exposure was found to be positively and significantly correlated in the statistical level of significance (r= 0.213*) with intensity of market participation. Last but not the least, income from all sources was found to be positively and significantly correlated in the statistical level of significance (r= 0.196*) with intensity of market participation.ThesisItem Open Access POST-NATAL DEVELOPMENT OF TONGUE, OESOPHAGUS AND PROVENTRICULUS OF PATI DUCK (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus) OF ASSAM AT DIFFERENT AGE GROUPS(College of Veterinary Science, Assam Agricultural University, Khanapara, Guwahati, 2021-12) DOGRA, TANU; Talukdar, ManmathNorth-East India is famous for rearing different breeds of ducks under traditional systems of management. Desi duck rearing plays an important role in the socio-economic development of the rural poor people of Assam. The study of the tongue, oesophagus and proventriculus of Pati duck of Assam is of great value in regard to the normal academic and biochemical research aspects. Since, there is scanty of literature on the Post-natal development of tongue, oesophagus and proventriculus of Pati duck, the present study is designed to establish anatomical norms on tongue, oesophagus and proventriculus with age. Twenty four healthy Pati ducks at 1st week, 8th week, 16th week and 24th week, irrespective of sex with each group having six birds were utilized to study the gross morphology, morphometry, histomorphology, histomorphometry and histochemical characteristics of tongue, oesophagus and proventriculus. Different hematological, biochemical and hormonal profiles of Pati duck of Assam were estimated accordingly. In the present study, gross morphology of tongue consisted of an apex, body with lingual prominence and a root. Rows of papillae were presented on the lateral borders of the body of tongue. Oesophagus was a tubular organ presented between pharynx and proventriculus. A fusiform expansion in the middle of oesophagus was observed in all the age groups. Proventriculus was tubular organ presented between oesophagus and gizzard. Morphometrical parameters like length, weight, width, thickness and diameter of the organ increased with the increase of age of Pati duck. Relative percentage length of organs with respect to body weight decreased with the increase of age. Relative percentage weight of the organs in terms of body weight was observed maximum in 8th week and decreased subsequently to 24th week of age of Pati duck. Histologically, tongue of the Pati duck consisted of stratified squamous epithelium. Intraepithelial taste buds were observed. Conical and filiform papillae were observed in all age groups of tongue. Histological sections of oesophagus and proventriculus revealed the presence of four layers. Lining epithelium of oesophagus was stratified squamous epithelium. Oesophageal glands were observed in the lamina propria of the tunica mucosa. Lining epithelium of proventriculus consisted of simple columnar epithelium. Tunica submucosa occupied major portion of proventricular wall and consisted of proventricular glands. Thickness of different layers of oesophagus and proventriculus increased with the increase of age. The width and depth of the proventricular glands also increased with the increase of age of Pati duck of Assam. Histochemical study revealed the presence of neutral, acid and sulphated mucopolysaccharides by Periodic Acid Schiff–Alcian blue in oesophageal glands, lining epithelium of proventriculus and in the papilla of the of proventricular glands. The epithelium of the tongue showed affinity towards Periodic Acid Schiff. Underlying connective tissue and entoglossum showed reaction towards Alcian blue. Neuroendocrine cells were observed in the proventriculus at 16th and 24th weeks of age of Pati duck of Assam. Biochemically, serum glucose, total protein and cholesterol level increased significantly with the increase of age. Haemological parameters like WBCs, PCV and Hb were significantly different at different age groups of Pati duck. However, no significant difference was observed in RBCs count at different age groups. Hormonal profiles of Triiodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxine (T4) decreased with the increase of age of Pati duck. Serum Cortisol level was observed to follow an irregular pattern with the increase of age which could be due to stress inducing external factors.ThesisItem Open Access HORMONAL AND MINERAL STATUS OF CAPTIVE ASIAN ELEPHANTS (Elephas maximus) UNDER STRESS CONDITION AND ITS MANAGEMENT”(College of Veterinary Science, Assam Agricultural University, Khanapara, Guwahati, 2021-12) CHANU, NIKITA THINGOM; Mahato, G.The present study was conducted to know the hormonal and mineral status of captive Asian elephants of Assam under stress condition by evaluating the stress hormones and related haemato-biochemical parameters. The study areas were Kaziranga National Park, Manas National Park, Orang National Park, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary as well as captive elephants of Sonapur (Guwahati-metro district) area. The captive elephants under different National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuary were considered as apparently healthy and their physiological parameters were considered as baseline values for the study. Those captive elephants maintained by private owners of Sonapur area were considered as stressed animals and the stress hormones were evaluated and compared with the free ranging captive elephants of different National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries. The serum cortisol (nmol/L), T3 (nmol/L) and T4 (nmol/L) concentrations were estimated using radioimmunoassay. Haematological parameters such as haemoglobin (g/dl), PCV (%), RBC (106/mm³), TLC (10³/mm³) and DLC (%) were also studied manually using standard protocols. Likewise, blood biochemical profiles viz. blood glucose (mg/dl), cholesterol (mg/dl), AST (U/L), ALT (U/L), total protein (g/dl), iron (μg/dl) and phosphorus (mg/dl) were estimated using different diagnostic kits. The mean cortisol concentration was higher and T₃ and T₄ were in low level in elephants of experimental group (captive elephants of private owners) in comparison to the baseline values of free ranging captive elephants of different National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries. Increase in haemoglobin, PCV, RBC and neutrophils and decrease in lymphocytes were also recorded in experimental group of elephants in comparison to baseline value. Blood biochemical profiles revealed higher level of blood glucose, cholesterol and low level of total protein and iron in privately owned captive elephants. Therapeutic management of stressed elephants was done with Vitamin C injection along with B-complex and liver tonics as supportive therapy. Following treatment, there was significant improvement (p<0.05) in the level of cortisol, T₃ and T₄ hormones. Haematological parameters viz, haemoglobin, PCV, RBC, TLC, neutrophils and lymphocytes showed significant differences (p<0.05) after treatment. Likewise, significant difference (p<0.05) were recorded in blood biochemical values of blood glucose, cholesterol, total protein, iron and phosphorus after treatment. The findings in the present study revealed that management of stress in captive elephants with vitamin C, B-complex vitamins and liver tonics were found to be effective.ThesisItem Open Access CHARACTERIZATION OF MEMBRANE PROTEINS IN FRESH AND FROZEN SPERMATOZOA IN ASSAM HILL GOAT(College of Veterinary Science, Assam Agricultural University, Khanapara, Guwahati, 2021-04) Dutta, Mitali; Sinha, SudipThirty six pooled ejaculates from nine Assam Hill Goat bucks aged 2 to 2.5 years collected by artificial vagina method were used to study the fresh and frozen semen characteristics, characterization of seminal plasma proteins, characterization of sperm membrane proteins in fresh and frozen semen and to study the effect of supplementation of three membrane stabilizers, each at two different concentrations viz. 50 and 80 mM sucrose, 50 and 100 mM trehalose, and 100 and 150ng/ml IGF-1 to tris-citric acid fructose egg yolk glycerol extender (TCFEYG) on post-thaw semen characteristics and on sperm membrane proteins of frozen semen. Characterization of two fertility related membrane proteins viz. ADAM1 and ADAM2 were also done in fresh and frozen spermatozoa of Assam Hill goat by western blotting and immunolocalization using anti ADAM1 and anti ADAM2 antibodies raised in rabbit respectively. The mean per cent progressive sperm motility, HOST-reacted sperm and intact acrosome was significantly (p<0.01) higher in fresh semen than in semen frozen in different extenders. The mean per cent post-thaw progressive motility, HOST-reacted sperm and intact acrosome differed significantly (p<0.01) between the different extenders. However, no significant difference was observed in the mean per cent HOST-reacted sperm between TCFEYG supplemented with 100mM trehalose and TCFEYG supplemented with 100ng/ml IGF-1 and no significant difference was observed in the mean per cent intact acrosome between TCFEYG supplemented with 100mM trehalose and TCFEYG supplemented with 100ng/ml IGF-1 and between TCFEYG supplemented with 50mM sucrose and TCFEYG supplemented with 50mM trehalose. The mean per cent post-thaw progressive sperm motility, HOST-reacted sperm and intact acrosome in frozen semen was found to be the highest in TCFEYG supplemented with 150ng/ml IGF-1. SDS- PAGE of seminal plasma and sperm membrane extract of fresh semen revealed the presence of 20 and 24 protein bands respectively with molecular weights ranging from10 kDa to 240 kDa. The SDS-PAGE electrophoretogram of sperm membrane proteins of semen frozen using TCFEYG and TCFEYG supplemented with 50mM sucrose (TCFEYG + 50mM S) and, 80mM sucrose (TCFEYG + 80mM S) revealed 21 protein bands with molecular weights ranging from 10 kDa to 240 kDa. The 21 protein bands were same with that observed in the sperm membrane of fresh spermatozoa, except three protein bands. These three proteins of molecular weights 23 kDa (~Phosphatidyl-ethanolamine-binding protein), 29 kDa (~Proacrosin binding protein) and 42 kDa (~tyrosine- phosphorylated SPACA1) were absent in TCFEYG and TCFEYG supplemented with 50mM, and 80mM sucrose. The SDS-PAGE electrophoretogram of sperm membrane proteins of semen frozen using TCFEYG supplemented with 50mM trehalose (TCFEYG + 50mM T), and 100mM trehalose (TCFEYG + 100mM T) revealed 22 protein bands with molecular weights ranging from 10 kDa to 240 kDa. The 22 protein bands were same with that observed in the sperm membrane of fresh spermatozoa, except two protein bands. These two proteins of molecular weights 29 kDa (~Proacrosin binding protein) and 42 kDa (~tyrosine- phosphorylated SPACA1) were absent in TCFEYG supplemented with 50mM, and 100mM trehalose. The supplementation of trehalose to the basic TCFEYG extender at 50mM and 100mM concentrations, however, had a protective effect on the sperm membrane protein of 23kDa when compared to the basic TCFEYG extender and TCFEYG supplemented with 50 and 80mM sucrose. The SDS-PAGE electrophoretogram of sperm membrane proteins of semen frozen using TCFEYG supplemented with 100ng/ml IGF-1 (TCFEYG + 100ng/ml IGF-1), and 150ng/ml IGF-1 (TCFEYG + 150ng/ml IGF-1) revealed 21 protein bands with molecular weights ranging from 10 kDa to 240 kDa. The 21 protein bands were same with that observed in the sperm membrane of fresh spermatozoa, except three protein bands. These three proteins of molecular weights 29 kDa (~Proacrosin binding protein), 130 kDa (~ lipoprotein binding protein) and 240 kDa (~golgi-associated retrograde protein) were absent in TCFEYG supplemented with 100ng/ml, and 150ng/ml IGF-1. Supplementation of the basic tris extender with IGF1 at concentrations of 100ng/ml and 150ng/ml resulted in protection of sperm membrane proteins of molecular weights 23kDa (~Phosphatidyl-ethanolamine-binding protein) and 42 kDa (~tyrosine- phosphorylated SPACA1) during the freeze-thaw process when compared to the basic tris extender and tris extender supplemented with sucrose. The 23 kDa protein was however, also found to be protected in the tris extender supplemented with trehalose. ADAM1 was detected as three bands of ~ 25kDa, 66kDa and~ 90kDa in the sperm membrane extract of fresh sperm. However, in the sperm membrane extract of semen frozen using TCFEYG, TCFEYG + 80mM S, TCFEYG + 50mM S, TCFEYG + 50mM T, TCFEYG + 100mM T, TCFEYG + 100ng/ml IGF-1 and TCFEYG + 150ng/ml IGF-1 extenders it was detected as ~25kDa, 66kDa and ~90kDa; ~25kDa, 66kDa and ~90kDa; ~25kDa, ~49kDa,~66kDa, ~90kDa and ~110kDa; ~25kDa,66kDa and ~90kDa; ~25kDa, 66kDa and ~90kDa; ~25kDa, ~49kDa,~66kDa, ~90kDa and ~110kDa ; and ~25kDa, ~49kDa,~66kDa, ~90kDa and ~110kDa respectively. In the present study, freeze-thaw process and supplementation of tris extender used for freezing of semen with membrane stabilizers such as sucrose, trehalose and IGF-1 has been found to result in certain variations in the molecular weight of ADAM1. However, reactive protein bands of 25kDa, 66kDa and 90kDa were found to be consistently present in the fresh sperm as well as sperm frozen in different extenders. ADAM2 was detected as two bands of ~ 80kDa and~ 130kDa in the sperm membrane extract of fresh sperm. However, in the sperm membrane extract of sperm frozen using TCFEYG, TCFEYG + 80mM S, TCFEYG + 50mM S, TCFEYG + 50mM T, TCFEYG + 100mM T, TCFEYG + 100ng/ml IGF-1 and TCFEYG + 150ng/ml IGF-1 extenders it was detected as ~70kDa, ~80kDa, ~100kDa and ~130kDa; ~70kDa, 80 kDa and ~130kDa; ~70kDa, ~80kDa,~90kDa, ~100kDa and ~130kDa; ~70kDa, ~80kDa, and ~100kDa; ~70kDa, ~80kDa, and ~100kDa; ~70kDa, ~80kDa, and ~100kDa; and ~70kDa, ~80kDa, and ~100kDa respectively. In the present study, freeze-thaw process and supplementation of tris extender used for freezing of semen with membrane stabilizers such as sucrose, trehalose and IGF1 has been found to result in certain variations in the molecular weight of ADAM2. However, a protein band of 80 kDa was found to be consistently present in the fresh sperm as well as sperm frozen in different extenders. Immunolocalization of the ADAM1 and ADAM2 proteins revealed the presence of the proteins in the acrosomal region of sperm cells in both fresh and frozen semen. Present study revealed no change in the localization of ADAM1 and ADAM2 post freezing thereby indicating that there is no effect of freezing on the distribution of these two proteins. It was concluded that cryopreservation of Assam Hill Goat semen resulted in alterations in sperm membrane proteins, however, supplementation of membrane stabilizers exerted protective effects. Based on post-thaw semen characteristics and study on membrane proteins it was found that IGF-1 @ 150ng/ml was superior to other membrane stabilizers in maintaining post-thaw semen quality.ThesisItem Open Access SURGICAL AFFECTIONS IN FREE RANGING AND CAPTIVE WILDLIFE OF ASSAM WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO ELEPHANTSSURGICAL AFFECTIONS IN FREE RANGING AND CAPTIVE WILDLIFE OF ASSAM WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO ELEPHANTS(College of Veterinary Science, Assam Agricultural University, Khanapara, Guwahati, 2021-03) DONNELLY, GAYLE HUGH; Sarma, Kushal KonwarIn the present study, data was recorded regarding the surgical affections encountered in free-ranging and captive wildlife of Assam, with special reference to Asian elephants and the incidence was calculated according to species, place, age and sex. A systematic record of the treatment schedule followed was maintained and samples were collected from elephants to conduct bacteriological, haematological and biochemical studies. A total of 674 wild animals were studied for the presence of surgical affections. Of these, 149 animals were found to be affected, therefore reflecting the incidence of surgical affections in wild animals at 22.11 per cent. The incidence of surgical affections in mammalian and avian species was relatively similar at 22.30% and 23.08%, respectively and the incidence in reptilian species was much lower at 11.77%. Among all mammals, the highest incidence of surgical affections was seen in Asiatic Lion, Golden Cat, Pig-tailed Macaque and Capped Langur at 100%. Surgical affections were also noted in other species such as Four-horned Antelope (88.34%), Golden Langur (71.43%), Blue Bull (70%), Greater One-horned Rhinoceros (62.50%), Jungle Cat (57.15%), Black Panther (50%), White Tiger (50%), Stump-tailed Macaque (42.86%), Hoolock Gibbon (42.86%), Bengal Tiger (33.34%), Asian Elephant (29.52%), Slow Loris (28.58%), Asiatic Brush-tailed porcupine(25%), Small Indian Civet (25%), Common Leopard (21.74%), Common Palm Civet (14.29%), Jackal (11.12%), Himalayan Black Bear (10%), Sambar Deer (7.57%), Indian Mouse Deer (6.67%), Barking Deer (6.56%) and Leopard Cat (5.27%). In Aves, the incidence of surgical affections was highest in Slender-billed Vulture (100%), followed by Lesser Adjutant Stork (80%), Egyptian Vulture (50%), Indian Pied Hornbill (50%), Greater Adjutant Stork (36.37%), Emu (33.34%), Indian Peafowl (25%), Himalayan Griffon Vulture (9.09%), and Great White Pelican (3.85%). Whereas, in reptilian species, the incidence was 14.28% in Common Indian Monitor 10% in Indian Soft-shelled Turtle species. The occurrence of surgical affections was higher in males (24.81%) as compared to females (21.69%). Among all species, 12 types of surgical affections were seen, with the highest incidence in open wounds (16.77%), followed by leg/foot affections (1.93%), cutaneous myiasis (1.48%), closed wounds (1.48%), fracture (0.89%), ocular affections (0.59%), growths (0.3%), paraphimosis (0.3%), navel ill (0.3%), umbilical hernia (0.15%), posterior paralysis (0.15%) and postpartum bleeding (0.15%). When considering cases of only Asian elephants, a total of 166 elephants were examined under the present study, and the total incidence of surgical affections was 29.52%. Concerning spatial distribution, the incidence of surgical affections among 103 captive - Forest Department elephants and 22 free-ranging wild elephants was 22.34% and 18.19%, respectively. The highest incidence of surgical affections was noted in the 41 captive privately owned elephants - 53.66%. When considering age, the highest incidence of surgical affections was seen in the age group 31 - 40 years (84.21%), followed by the age group 41 - 50 years (71.43%) which constituted working Elephants. The overall sex-wise incidence of surgical affections was noted to be higher in females (67.35%) than males (32.66%). Individually, however, the higher incidence was noted in captive male elephants belonging to the Forest Department (26.20%) and free-ranging wild male elephants (30.77%). Conversely, in the case of captive privately owned elephants, a higher incidence of surgical affections was recorded in females (56.76%). Among affected Asian Elephants, seven types of surgical affections were recorded. In reference to types of surgical affections, the highest incidence was seen in cases of open wounds (43.37%) followed by closed wounds (10.84%), leg /foot affections (10.84%), ocular affections (3.61%), paraphimosis (1.2%), growths (1.2%) and umbilical hernia (1.2%). Standard therapeutic regimens adopted in all cases of surgical affections yielded positive results. The duration of treatment was highest in Asiatic Lion (Pantheraleoleo) at an average of 58 days, followed by Asian Elephant (Elephasmaximus) at 27 days. All other species required 1-15 days of treatment depending upon the severity of surgical affection. Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Pseudomonas, Escherichia coli,Klebsiella and Enterobacter species were the most commonly isolated species. Out of 24 Staphylococcus isolates, 15 were coagulase positive. The Antibiotic sensitivity pattern indicated the highest effectiveness of Ceftriaxone and Tazobactam and Enrofloxacin, followed by Ciprofloxacin. The haematological profile reflected elevated levels of neutrophils and monocytes, and a decrease in haemoglobin (Hb), red blood cell (RBC), packed cell volume (PCV) and lymphocyte levels. Serum chemistry indicated a mild increase in SGPT, Total Bilirubin, Glucose values and a significant increase in BUN.ThesisItem Open Access PERFORMANCE OF INDIGENOUS CHICKEN IN CERTAIN DISTRICTS OF ASSAM UNDER BACKYARD FARMING SYSTEM(College of Veterinary Science, Assam Agricultural University, Khanapara, Guwahati, 2021-12) ISLAM, JEHIRUL; Ferdoci, A. M.The study was conducted on indigenous chickens of Darrang and Udalguri district of Assam to evaluate growth, performance and reproductive traits. Data on body weights relating to 747 birds were used in the study. The data of 115, 137 and 95 number of birds were utilized for age at first egg, annual egg production and reproductive traits respectively. Fifty eggs were randomly collected for the study of egg quality traits. Data were collected during the period from August, 2020 to June, 2021 through field survey and interviewed the farmers with pre-tested questionnaire. The overall least-squares means of body weight at day old stage, 20 weeks and 40 weeks were found to be 28.332±0.218, 745.719±4.479 and 1296.984±6.971 g respectively. The body weight of males at 20 weeks and 40 weeks were found to be 779.924±7.995 g and 1389.121±11.670 g and the corresponding values of females were found to be 711.513±5.407 g and 1204.846±8.691 g respectively. Chicken of Darrang district had higher body weight of 29.002±0.304, 750.310±6.215 and 1302.030±9.596 g at day old stage, 20 and 40 weeks of age than Udalguri district with 27.662±0.314, 741.128±6.461 and 1291.938±10.142 g respectively. Significant effect of district on body weight at day old stage (P<0.01), 20 weeks (P<0.05) and 40 weeks (P<0.01) were observed. The overall least-squares means for age at first egg was found to be 199.286±4.236 days. The least-squares means for age at first egg in Darrang and Udalguri district were 196.741±7.986 and 201.831±9.022 days respectively which were found to be non-significant. The overall least-squares means for annual egg production was found to be 65.236±0.813 numbers. The least-squares means for annual egg production in Darrang and Udalguri district were 67.901±1.137 and 65.570±1.162 numbers respectively which were found to be significant (P<0.01). The overall mean for egg weight (g), Albumen index, Yolk index, Haugh unit, Shell thickness (mm) and Shape index were recorded as 40.54±0.63, 0.077±0.003, 0.502±0.006, 70.213±0.700, 0.323±0.003 and 75.725±0.407 respectively. The egg shell colours were mostly light brown followed by creamy white. The average fertility and hatchability were recorded as 90.75 % and 87.42 % respectively.ThesisItem Open Access CHARACTERIZATION OF INDIGENOUS GEESE OF ASSAM(College of Veterinary Science, Assam Agricultural University, Khanapara, Guwahati, 2021-12) HOQUE, HANIDUL; Phookan, ArundhatiThe present study carried out in indigenous geese of Assam belonging to, Udalguri, Nalbari, Darrang and Barpeta district. Data pertaining to a total of 251, 686, 184, 845 nos. of geese and 32 nos. of eggs were utilized to study physical characteristics; body weight and body measurements; productive and reproductive traits; mortality percentage and egg quality traits. Indigenous geese were found to be Cinnamon coloured with border plumage pattern and White coloured with solid plumage pattern. Bill colour was observed to be black, orange, yellow and admixture of black and orange. Shank and feet colour were observed to be orange and yellow. Least–squares means(LSM) for body weight at hatching, 1month, 2months, 3months, 4months, 6-8 months and 12 months and above age were found to be 0.087±0.001, 0.514±0.005, 1.699±0.043, 2.740±0.031, 3.030±0.022, 3.480±0.055 and 3.970±0.025 kg respectively. LSM for body length, for body length, for body length, for body length, for body length, for body length, for body length, for body length, for body length, for body length, for body length, for body length, for body length, for body length, for body length, for body length, for body length, for body length, for body length, for body length, circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast circumference, bill length, width, head neck breast shank length shank length shank length shank length shank length shank length shank length shank length shank length shank length and feet length were 8.606±0.020, 12.437±0.119, 1.813±0.022, 1.125±0.015, 2.610±0.03,1.496±0.018, 2.820±0.024, 6.259±0.025, 2.802±0.021 and 2.686±0.022cm at hatching; 17.151±0.158, 18.59±0.163, 3.228±0.031, 1.626±0.020, 5.671±0.040, 2.267±0.030, 6.398 ±0.040, 14.426±0.181, 5.461±0.047 and 5.151±0.050 cm at 1 month; 28.220±0.535, 30.080±0.496, 5.044±0.090, 2.060±0.028, 6.805±0.067, 2.655±0.036, 11.036±0.247, 16.686±0.128, 6.688±0.069 and 6.191±0.066 cm at 2 months; 36.700±0.329, 38.040±0.332, 6.784±0.067, 2.123±0.025, 6.793±0.066, 2.702±0.047, 14.036±0.104, 21.944±0.206, 7.206±0.037 and 6.764±0.037cm at 3 months, 37.956±0.326, 39.220±0.286, 7.012±0.041, 2.359±0.028, 7.674±0.036, 3.144±0.034, 16.168±0.129, 24.169±0.109, 7.916±0.040 and 7.458±0.043 cm at 4 months; 40.282±0.349, 42.580±0.405, 7.697±0.055, 2.496±0.028, 7.997±0.046, 3.414±0.030, 17.186 ±0.100, 25.623±0.237, 8.052±0.038 and 7.586±0.037cm at 6-8 months and 44.954±0.159, 48.876±0.192, 8.491±0.017, 3.304±0.017, 9.723±0.037, 4.207±0.019, 19.097±0.051, 27.998±0.099, 8.376±0.016 and 7.954±0.016 cm at 12 months and above age. Body weights and body measurements were found to be significantly higher in males. Geese from Darrang district were found to have significantly higher body measurements. LSM for age at first egg, annual egg production, clutch size and clutch interval was found to be 320.196±2.882 days, 19.886±0.306 nos., 9.897±0.143 nos. and 59.206±0.531 days. Two laying cycles in a year observed i.e. September to November and December to February and each laying cycle ranged from 12 days to 1 month. Average egg weight, shape index, shell weight, shell thickness, specific gravity, albumen index, Haugh unit and yolk index were found to be 115.445±2.320 g, 70.476±1.120, 16.756±0.282 g, 0.560±0.009 mm, 1.285±0.017, 0.075±0.001, 64.662±1.201 and 0.362±0.006.Yolk colour observed to be yellow and sometimes orange. Egg shell colour was observed white and sometime cloudy white. Geese found to be quite broody. Average fertility and hatchability % (TES) were found to be 87.11% and 80.53%. Average mortality % were recorded as 12.93, 9.52, 6.74 and 3.07 % for 0 to 1 week, 2 to 4 weeks, 4 to 20 weeks and 24 weeks and above age groups.ThesisItem Open Access EFFECT OF DIETARY SUPPLEMENTATION OF CYSTEINE-PROTEASE AND 1,4-β-XYLANASE AND THEIR COMBINATION IN LOW PLANE OF NUTRITION ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF COMMERCIAL BROILER CHICKEN(College of Veterinary Science, Assam Agricultural University, Khanapara, Guwahati, 2021-12) ALI, MOKADESH; Saikia, GunaramAn experiment was conducted to study the effect of dietary supplementation of cysteine- protease and 1,4-β-xylanase and their combination in low plane of nutrition on growth, nutrient utilization, blood biochemical profile, carcass characteristics and to evaluate economics of feeding in commercial broiler chicken. One hundred sixty (N=160) commercial broiler chicks (Vencobb 400) were randomly distributed into 4 groups (T0, T1, T2 and T3) on live weight basis comprising of 40 chicks in each group with four replicates of 10 chicks in each. The control group (T0) was fed with a standard pre-starter, starter and finisher broiler ration as per ICAR (2013) specifications. The chicks belong to group (T1) was fed with standard ration but supplemented with cysteine-protease (32500 PU/kg of feed) and 1,4-β-xylanase (16000 BXU/kg of feed) as per recommended dose of manufacturer. Birds belong to group T2 and T3 were fed rations with 4 and 6 percent lower crude protein (CP) and metabolizable energy (ME) content than ICAR (2013) specifications, respectively with supplementation of both cysteine-protease (32500 PU/kg of feed) and 1,4-β-xylanase (16000 BXU/kg of feed) in all pre-starter, starter and finisher phases. At the end of pre-starter, starter and finisher phases blood samples were collected and analysed for blood biochemical parameters. Four birds from each group were slaughtered to study the carcass characteristics and chemical composition of meat. The economics of feeding and broiler production were evaluated. Highly significant (p0.05) differences were observed in total feed intake, retention of calcium and phosphorus, dressing percentage, yield of prime cuts, yield of lymphoid organs, chemical composition of meat, serum total protein, albumin, globulin and gamma glutamyl transferase level. Cost of production when calculated revealed that supplementation of cysteine-protease and 1, 4-β-xylanase in broiler rations was more profitable than feeding diets without enzymes. The highest gross profit was observed in group T1 receiving standard rations as per ICAR (2013) specifications supplemented with cysteine-protease and 1, 4-β-xylanase. Hence, the study indicated that broilers could be reared more economically and profitably on broiler rations supplemented with cysteine-protease and 1, 4-β-xylanase.ThesisItem Open Access CONGESTIVE HEART FAILURE IN DOGS AND ITS THERAPEUTIC MANAGEMENT(College of Veterinary Science, Assam Agricultural University, Khanapara, Guwahati, 2021-09) PATOWARY, PRERONA; Phukan, A.The present study entitled “Congestive heart failure in dogs & its therapeutic management” was undertaken w.e.f. 1st November 2020 to 30th June 2021 with the objectives to study the prevalence, hemato-biochemical alterations & efficacy of different therapeutic regimens of congestive heart failure in dogs. The study revealed overall prevalence of 0.20% with highest prevalence in Labrador retriever breed (0.53%) with male predominance (0.22%) and in the age group of >10 years of age (0.50%). The observed clinical signs included exercise intolerance, dyspnoea, coughing, ascites, syncope, inappetance and weakness. Tachycardia crackles and murmurs were the common clinical findings in the CHF affected dogs. ECG findings in CHF affected dogs included sinus tachycardia (37.50%), sinus bradycardia (8.33%), sinus arrhythmia (25%), sick sinus syndrome (8.33%), 1st degree heart block (8.33), atrial fibrillation (12.50), atrial flutter (4.17%) and low voltage QRS complex (12.50%). Radiographic findings of CHF included cardiomegaly (87.50%), upward deviation of trachea (33.33%), pleural effusion (70.83%) & pericardial effusion (25.00%) with significantly elevated VHS. Ultrasonography of abdomen showed presence of ascites (66.67%), hepatic congestion (75.00%), hepatomegaly (62.50%), renal degeneration (41.67%), spleenomegaly (12.50%) and cystitis (8.33%). Echocardiographic findings in CHF were DCM (75.00%), Cardiomegaly (83.33%), mitral valve regurgitation (91.67%), tricuspid valve regurgitation (41.67%), and pericardial effusion (25.00%). The LVIDd, LVIDs, EPSS, LA/AO dimensions were increased with a decrease in IVSd, IVSs, LVPWd, LVPWs and contractility indices (EF and FS) in affected dogs. There was a significant mosaic pattern appearance on color flow doppler found in mitral & tricuspid valve regurgitation. Hematological assessment showed no significant changes. Serum biochemical assessment showed significant increase in the level of SGOT, SGPT, BUN, serum creatinine and LDH. Moreover significant decrease in the level of total serum protein and albumin was recorded. All the CHF affected dogs were divided into three groups, viz: group A, B and C each having 8 numbers of dogs. Dogs in group A treated with furosemide + spiranolactone, pimobendane and ramipril orally daily. Dogs in group B treated with hydrochlorothiazide + spiranolactone, pimobendane and ramipril orally daily. Dogs in group C treated with torsemide + spiranolactone, pimobendane and ramipril orally daily. All the dogs under treatment for 42 days were monitored and the efficacy was assessed at fortnight intervals based on improvement of clinical signs, hemtobiochemical alterations, ECG, thoracic radiography, USG of abdomen and echocardiography features. There was a significant improvement in the serum biochemical parameters of CHF dogs during therapy. Radiographically, no appreciable reduction in heart size was observed in any of the CHF dogs after 42days of therapy except substantial reduction in the pleural & pericardial effusion. There was improvement & disappearance of cardiac arrhythmia in ECG. A significant difference in left ventricular dimensions (LVIDd, LVIDs,IVSd, IVSs, LVPWd, LVPWs and EPSS) and contractility indices ( EF and FS) were noticed in affected dogs by the end of the trial. Based on resolution of clinical signs, improvement in hemato-biochemical alterations and echocardiographic features it was found that a combination of torsemide + spiranolactone, pimobendane and ramipril was found superior to other two combinations as indicated by faster disappearance signs and early recovery with no adverse drug reaction both during and after therapy. Hence this therapeutic regimen is indicated in dogs with congestive heart failure.
