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Anand Agricultural University, Anand

Anand Agricultural University (AAU) was established in 2004 at Anand with the support of the Government of Gujarat, Act No.(Guj 5 of 2004) dated April 29, 2004. Caved out of the erstwhile Gujarat Agricultural University (GAU), the dream institution of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Dr. K. M. Munshi, the AAU was set up to provide support to the farming community in three facets namely education, research and extension activities in Agriculture, Horticulture Engineering, product Processing and Home Science. At present there seven Colleges, seventeen Research Centers and six Extension Education Institute working in nine districts of Gujarat namely Ahmedabad, Anand, Dahod, Kheda, Panchmahal, Vadodara, Mahisagar, Botad and Chhotaudepur AAU's activities have expanded to span newer commodity sectors such as soil health card, bio-diesel, medicinal plants apart from the mandatory ones like rice, maize, tobacco, vegetable crops, fruit crops, forage crops, animal breeding, nutrition and dairy products etc. the core of AAU's operating philosophy however, continues to create the partnership between the rural people and committed academic as the basic for sustainable rural development. In pursuing its various programmes AAU's overall mission is to promote sustainable growth and economic independence in rural society. AAU aims to do this through education, research and extension education. Thus, AAU works towards the empowerment of the farmers.

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  • ThesisItemOpen Access
    REPRODUCTION IN MARES WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO ENDOMETRIAL BIOPSY
    (AAU, Anand, 2012) KUMAR, NISHANT; Patel, D. M.
    The present study on "Reproduction in Mares with Special Reference to Endometrial Biopsy" was carried out on mares of different police head quarters like Anand and Kheda districts. The mare visiting Teaching Veterinary Clinical Service Complex, College of Veterinary Science and A.H., Anand, were also included in the study. The research work included study of normal and abnormal estrous cycle of mare. In this study special emphasis was given on collection of endometrial biopsy for histopathology and blood for different hemato-biochemical parameters. A detailed histopathological study was carried out on endometrial biopsies to know the reproductive status of mares. The research work was carried out on 18 police mares and privately owned mares of Anand and near by Anand area. Each of the three groups had 6 animals and were divided on the basis of reproductive status, viz.. Group 1- Mares with normal estrous cycle, Group 2- Mares with abnormal estrous cycle. Group 3- Mares with infertility. These mares were studied for normal and abnormal estrous cycle, histopathology of endometrial biopsy and hemato-biochemical studies. On the basis of study in 172 mares it was found that mare is a seasonal polyestrous animal with breeding seasons in the months of spring and summer. As day length increases in spring mares show signs of heat and as day length decreases in winter mare were found to be going into deep anestrous condition. The mean estrous cycle length of mares during breeding seasons were found to be 21 ±0.58 days with estrus period of 5-7 (6.07 ± 0.87) days. The signs of estrus include frequent urination, deviating tail away from the perineum, standing still with the hind limbs spread apart, clitoral winking (rhythmic eversion of the clitoris), squealing, kicking and sensitivity over the flanks, hindquarter, and abdomen. The recently parturited mares were showing foal heat between 7-13 (9.38 ± 2.57) days of parturition. The mean estrous cycle lengths of abnormal cyclic mares was 10 ± 2.32 days (Short) and 32 ± 3.6 days (Long) during breeding season of spring and summer months. The abnormal cyclic mare were also shown wide range of estrus period of 3- 10 (5.6 ±2.8) days. Endometrial biopsy and histopathology studies indicated normal endometrium exhibiting mild to moderate neutrophil infiltration, specially in case of estrus period. In estrus the epithelial cells were tall cuboidal to low columnar and progressing to high columnar during diestrus. Acute endometritis was characterized by accumulation of inflammatory cells (neutrophils), mild to moderates stromal fibrosis, stromal oedema, congestion of blood vessels and accumulation of inflammatory exudates which may be temporary in nature. Chronic endometritis was characterized by moderate to severe endometrial gland atrophy, extensive fibrosis (i.e., more than five layers of fibrocytes around endometrial glands) and mononuclear cell (specially lymphocytes) infiltration. In some cases diffiisely less density of endometrial glands were found The serum calcium levels of normal cyclic, abnormal cyclic and infertile mares were 12.09 ± 0.14, 11.04 ± 0.15 and 10.62 ± 0.10 mg/dl, respectively and was found to differ significantly to each other. The serum magnesium levels of normal cyclic, abnormal cyclic and infertile mares were 2.13 ± 0.06, 1.96 ± 0.03 and 1.85 ± 0.03 mg/dl. The serum phosphorus levels of normal cyclic, abnormal cyclic and infertile mares were 3.86 ± 0.07, 3.22 ± 0.10 and 2.63 ± 0.11 mg/dl. Both serum magnesium and serum phosphorus levels were significantly lower in infertile than normal and abnormal cyclic animals.
  • ThesisItemOpen Access
    COMPARATIVE EFFICACY OF EGG YOLK AND SOYA BASED EXTENDERS FOR REFRIGERATION (5 °C) AND CRYOPRESERVATION (-196 °C) OF BUFFALO SEMEN
    (AAU, Anand, 2014) CHAUDHARI, DINESHKUMAR V.; Dhami, A. J.
    The present investigation was undertaken during the favourable breeding season (November-February) of the year 2013-2014 on six mature Surti buffalo bulls at Central Sperm Station of Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of the Veterinary College, AAU, Anand. The study covered evaluation of seminal characteristics in neat semen and then comparative efficacy of egg yolk based standard TFYG (Tris-citric acid-fructoseegg yolk-glycerol) extender and soybean based commercially available extenders (Bioxcell® and Optixcell®, IMV, France) using split-ejaculate technique through various morphological and functional attributes of spermatozoa extended/preserved/ processed in these extenders for refrigeration preservation (at 5°C up to 72 hrs) and cryopreservation (-196°C), including interrelationships of quality sperm parameters of fresh, refrigerated and cryopreserved semen. Immediately after collection, the ejaculates (8 per bull) were evaluated for routine physico-morphological attributes, including motility, viability, morphology (eosinnigrosin), acrosomal integrity (Giemsa stain) and plasma membrane integrity (HOST 150 mOsm/L; an in vitro fertility test) through standard procedures and using phase contrast microscope.
  • ThesisItemOpen Access
    AUGMENTING FERTILITY IN ANOESTRUS AND REPEAT BREEDING BUFFALOES USING CONTROLLED BREEDING TECHNIQUES
    (AAU, Anand, 2013) SAVALIA, KETANKUMAR KANJIBHAI; DHAMI, A. J.
    This study was carried out at 5 villages of Anand district under the AMUL milk shed area on 50 buffaloes, comprising 20 acyclic-true anoestrus,. 20 cyclic-repeat breeders and 10 normal cyclic buffaloes (exhibiting oestrus within 90 days postpartum). The objectives were to evaluate clinical response and monitor peripheral plasma progesterone, biochemical and macro-micro minerals profile at different time intervals in anoestrus (CIDR and Ovsynch protocol) and repeat breeding (Al+GnRH and Mid-cycle PGFaa inj.) buffaloes treated with different hormonal preparations. The effect of these protocols was evaluated by comparing oestrus induction response, oestrus induction interval and induced/first cycle (with fixed time AI) as well as overall of three cycles conception rates, and monitoring plasma progesterone by RIA, total cholesterol, total protein, calcium, inorganic phosphorus and magnesium by assay kits on auto-analyzer, and micro-minerals (Zn, Fe, Cu,. Co, Mn) profile using wet digested samples on atomic absorption spectrophotometer at different time intervals of treatment in anoestrus (day 0, 7, 9/10-Al) and in repeat breeding (day 0 and day of oestrus/Al) as well as normal cyclic control buffaloes and on day 21 post-Al in all the buffaloes. Ten true anoestrus buffaloes were inserted with i/vaginal CIDR (containing 1.38 g progesterone in silastic coil) for 7 days, it was removed on day 7 together with i/m Inj. of PGF2α 25 mg (Inj. Lutalyse, 5 ml) and FTAl was done on day 9 with i/m Inj. of GnRH 10 μg (Inj. Receptal, 2.5 ml). All the 10 (100 %) buffaloes exhibited induced ovulatory oestrus within stipulated time with moderate to prominent oestrus signs. The conception rates obtained at induced/first, second, third cycle and overall were 40.00 (4/10), 50.00 (3/6), 00.00 (0/3) and 70.00 (7/10) per cent, respectively. The interval from PGF2α injection to induced oestrus was 63.60 ± 6.46 hrs (n=10) and the fertile oestrus interval was 10.25 ± 3.94 days (n=7) among CIDR treated conceived buffaloes.
  • ThesisItemOpen Access
    AUGMENTING REPRODUCTIVE EFFICIENCY OF INFERTILE BUFFALOES USING CONTROLLED BREEDING TECHNIQUES IN TRIBAL AREAS
    (AAU, Anand, 2013) PARMAR, BHARGAVSINH NATVARSINH; PATEL, D. M.
    The present study entitled "Augmenting reproductive efficiency of infertile buffaloes using controlled breeding techniques in tribal areas" was carried out in tribal areas of Dahod district of Gujarat on 16 postpartum anestrus, 15 repeat breeder and 7 normal cyclic buffaloes. The objectives were to evaluate clinical response and monitor peripheral plasma progesterone, biochemical and macro-micro minerals profile at different time intervals in anestrus (CIDR and Ovsynch protocol) and repeat breeding (AI+GnRH and Mid-cycle PGF2α inj.) buffaloes treated with different hormonal preparations. The effect of these protocols was evaluated by comparing estrus induction response, estrus induction interval and AI at estrus as well as pregnancy rates. Also the plasma progesterone profile was studied using RIA technique. Serum total cholesterol, total protein, calcium, inorganic phosphorus and magnesium by assay kits on autoanalyzer, and micro-minerals (Zn, Fe, Cu, Co, Mn) profiles using wet digested samples on atomic absorption spectrophotometer at different time intervals in all buffaloes and controls. Nine true anestrus buffaloes were inserted with intravaginal CIDR on day 0, upto day 7 and were given i/m Inj. of PGF2α 25 mg (Inj. Pragma, 2 ml) to all the buffaloes. FTAI was done on day 9 and Inj. GnRH, 10 μg (Inj. Gynarich, 2.5 ml) was given to all the buffaloes. All the 9 (100 %) buffaloes exhibited estruses within stipulated time. The inseminations were done at first, second, third estruses and overall conception rates found to be 33.33, 33.33, 25.00 and 66.66 per cent, respectively. The interval from PGF2α injection to induced estrus was 69.44±1.32 hrs (n=9) and the fertile estrus interval was 16.66±6.94 days (n=6) in treated buffaloes.
  • ThesisItemOpen Access
    Fertility Enhancement in Anoestrus Buffaloes through Controlled Breeding Techniques
    (AAU, Anand, 2014) NAKRANI, BHAVESHKUMAR BHANUBHAI; Panchal, M. T.
    This investigation was aimed to evaluate the clinical response and monitor the peripheral plasma progesterone, biochemical and macro-minerals profiles in 55 postpartum (>90 days) anoestrus buffaloes treated with three standard hormonal protocols (CIDR, Ovsynch and Crestar, n=15 each), keeping a group of untreated control (n=10), and the findings were compared with a group of normal cyclic control buffaloes (n=10). The buffaloes maintained by farmers at 8 tribal villages of Santrampur and Kadana talukas of Mahisagar district of Gujarat were included in the study conducted during breeding season. All the selected buffaloes were initially dewormed by injecting Ivermection 100 mg s/c and treated once intramuscularly with presynchronization treatment, i.e., sodium acid phosphate 2 g (Inj. Alphos-40, 10 ml), Inj. vitamin AD3E (Inj. Vetacept, 10 ml) and multi-minerals boluses (Bolus-Minotas) orally @ 1 bolus daily for 7 days. The effect of three hormonal protocols was evaluated by comparing the oestrus induction response, oestrus induction interval and induced/first oestrus (with fixed time AI) as well as overall of three cycles' conception rates, and monitoring plasma progesterone (by RIA), total cholesterol, total protein, calcium and inorganic phosphorus (by autoanalyzer) profiles at different time intervals (day 0, 7, 9-AI) of treatment and day 21 post-FTAI in anoestrus buffaloes, and on day of oestrus/AI and day 21 post-AI in anoestrus control group (n=10) and in normal cyclic control buffaloes (n=10).
  • ThesisItemOpen Access
    STUDIES ON ULTRASONOGRAPHY, PLASMA ENDOCRINE AND BIOCHEMICAL PROFILES DURING EARLY PREGNANCY IN MARES
    (AAU, Anand, 2013) RABARI, MAHESHKUMAR L.; Shah, R. G.
    This research work entitled was carried out during breeding seasons on apparently healthy field (farmer) mares (n=32) selected at random from different areas of Saurastra region (March-August, 2011) and Thoroughbred mares (n=45) of private stud farm of North Gujarat (February-June, 2012). The mares of both the class were subjected to per rectal examinations, the Thoroughbred mares were also scanned by ultrasonography, for the pregnancy status and were divided into pregnant and non-pregnant groups. These mares (Field vs. Thoroughbred) were further distributed in three stages as per the pregnancy days, viz., Stage-I: pregnant mares between day 0 and 35 of gestation (4 vs. 12), Stage -11: comprises of pregnant mares between day 36 and 75 of gestation (7 vs. 12), Stage-III: comprises of pregnant mares between day 76 and 150 of gestation (11 vs. 11), and Stage-IV: non-pregnant mares (10 vs. 10). Blood plasma samples collected from above mares were analyzed for biochemical and hormonal profile. The mean plasma progesterone levels (ng/ml) of field and Thoroughbred pregnant mares were significantly higher in stage-III mares (20.34 ±2.13 vs. 29.32 ± 2.48) followed by stage-I (15.55 ± 3.54 vs. 17.29 ± 1.66) and stage II mares (13.51 ± 1.81 vs. 23.62 ± 2.31), than those in stage-IV non-pregnant mares (0.97 ± 0.15 vs. 1.68 ± 0.35) were observed in non-pregnant mares (stage-IV). The overall pooled mean progesterone profile of field and Thoroughbred mares showed an increasing trend from pregnancy stage-I to stage-III. Significantly higher mean progesterone level (ng/ml) was observed during stage-III (24.83 ± 1.87) of pregnancy than that at stage-I (16.86 ± 1.48), II (19.89 ± 1.94) and IV (1.33 ± 0.25). The mean progesterone levels (field mares vs. Thoroughbred mares) at stage-II (13.51 ± 1.81 vs. 23.62 ± 2.31) and stage-III (20.34 ±2.13 vs. 29.32 ± 2.48) were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in Thoroughbred mares than those of field mares. The mean plasma estradiol-17β levels (pg/ml) were significantly higher (P< 0.05) in field and Thoroughbred pregnant mares of stage-III (289.82 ± 73.05 vs. 240.91 ± 32.13) than those mares of stage-I (28.50 ± 4.52 vs. 91.92 ± 14.28) and stage-II (43.14 ± 11.90 vs. 86.00 ±7.15) and non-pregnant mares of stage-IV (23.80 ± 1.82 vs. 74.50 ± 6.37). There were non significant differences among stage-I, II and IV. The overall pooled values of estradiol-17β (pg/ml) of field and Thoroughbred mares were significantly higher during early pregnancy stage-III (265.36 ± 39.31) than those found during stage-I (76.06 ± 12.78), II (70.21 ± 7.80) and IV (49.15 ± 4.09). The mean estradiol-17β levels of Thoroughbred mares were significantly higher during stage-I (91.92 ± 14.28) and II (86.00 ± 7.15) and IV (74.50 ± 6.37) as compared to those of field mares. However, the estradiol-17β level of pregnancy stage-III was significantly higher in field mares than that of Thoroughbred mares (289.82 ± 73.05 vs. 240.91 ±32.13 pg/ml). The mean cholesterol levels of both the class of mares were significantly (P<0.05) higher during non-pregnancy stage-IV than the pregnancy stage-II, I and III. The overall mean total cholesterol levels among various stages of pregnancy did not differ significantly. The mean total cholesterol level (mg/dl) during stage-III of pregnancy was significantly higher in Thoroughbred mares (78.74 ±2.15) than those of field mares (64.15 ±3.22). The mean plasma triglycerides (mg/dl) level of pregnant field mares was significantly higher during stage-II (30.26 ± 3.65) followed by stage-III (29.33 ± 1.86) and I (27.64 ± 2.38) than in non-pregnant mares (20.56 ± 2.56). The mean triglycerides level (mg/dl) in Thoroughbred mares was, however significantly higher during stage-III (39.93 ± 2.69) than those of stage-II (26.24 ± 2.89), I (23.95 ± 3.21) of pregnancy and non-pregnancy stage-IV (25.55 ± 2.82). The overall pooled mean triglycerides concentration was significantly higher in pregnancy stage-III than those mares at stage-II, I and IV. The Thoroughbred mares had significantly higher mean plasma triglycerides (mg/dl) level than the field mares during pregnancy stage-III (39.93 ±2.69 vs. 29.33 ±1.86). The mean plasma total protein levels in field mares and also overall of two classes did not vary significantly among the stages of pregnancy and non-pregnancy. The mean total protein levels (g/dl) in Thoroughbred mares was, however significantly higher during stage-III (7.52 ± 0.76) than those of stage-II (6.98 ±0.15) and IV (6.77 ± 0.24). The mean plasma protein levels between field and Thoroughbred mares during various stages of pregnancy and non-pregnancy did not differ significantly. The mean plasma glucose (mg/dl) levels were significantly higher at stage-III of pregnancy in both field (101.40 ± 5.38) and Thoroughbred (102.18 ± 4.26) mares than other stages. The mean plasma glucose levels between field and Thoroughbred mares were identical at different stages of pregnancy and non-pregnancy. The mean plasma calcium (mg/dl) level in field mares was significantly lower at stage-I (10.65 ± 0.26) of pregnancy than those observed at stage-II (11.36 ± 0.32), III (11.98 ± 0.11) and IV (11.77 ± 0.17). The non-pregnant Thoroughbred farm mares showed significantly higher (12.73 ± 0.18 mg/dl) mean plasma calcium levels than those observed during all 3 pregnancy stages. The overall mean plasma calcium level during non-pregnancy (stage-IV) was significantly higher than those of pregnant mares in stage-III, II and I. The mean calcium levels between the field and Thoroughbred mares did not differ significantly at any of the stages of pregnancy and non-pregnancy. The mean plasma inorganic phosphorus (mg/dl) values were significantly higher during stage-III of pregnancy in both field (3.97 ± 0.06), Thoroughbred mares (3.76 ± 0.11) and hence the overall mean value (3.86 ± 0.06). The correlation studies revealed significant (P<0.05) and positive relationship of plasma cholesterol levels with total protein (r = 0.64) and phosphorus levels (r = 0.60) in Thoroughbred mares. The glucose levels observed during stage-l of pregnancy in Thoroughbred mares had significant and positive correlation with pregnancy days (r = 0.59). The triglyceride levels observed during gestational stage-II in Thoroughbred mares had significant (P<0.05) and positive correlations with total protein levels (r = 0.62). The plasma total protein levels had significant (P<0.05) and positive correlations with phosphorus levels (r = 0.62) during stage-II. The pregnancy days had significant (P<0.05) and positive correlations with triglycerides (r = 0.66), total protein (r = 0.81) and phosphorus levels (r = 0.92). In non-pregnant Thoroughbred mares, the glucose levels had significant (P<0.05) and positive correlation with phosphorus levels (r = 0.63). Pregnancy days had significant (P<0.05) and positive relationship with plasma glucose (r = 0.97) in field mares. The cholesterol levels observed during stage-Il of pregnancy in field mares had significant (P<0.05) and positive correlation with triglyceride levels (r = 0.79). The plasma calcium had significant (P<0.05) and positive correlafion with phosphorus levels (r = 0.82). The embryonic vesicle first became visible as a fluid filled structure, recognized as non-echogenic sphere of 9 mm and 17 mm on day 14 of pregnancy, respectively by the ultrasonography. The mean size of embryonic vesicles observed on day 14, 18-22, 28-30, 35, 45-48, 56 and 60-63 of pregnancy was 13.0 ± 4.0, 28.0 ± 0.82, 36.5 ±1.41, 52.0 ± 0.0, 69.0 ± 5.0,74.0 ± 0.0 and 92.2 ± 2.2 mm, respectively. With the routine examination of pregnant mares with ultrasonography, the embryo as well as the fetal heart beat was also detected for the first time on 28th day post covering. The mean size of embryo was 11.2 ± 0.95 mm during days 28-30 of gestation. The increase in the size of embryo was observed during gestational days 35, 45-56 and 60-63 and the corresponding size of the embryo during above gestational days was 22.0 ± 0.0, 29.67 ± 0.41 and 54.8 ± 0.63 mm, respectively. The study clearly indicated that the pregnancy can be diagnosed by ultrasonography as early as on day 14th of pregnancy. Similarly, hormonal profile determined in field and Thoroughbred mares showed that the higher (>13.5 ng/ml) and lower (< 3.7 ng/ml) mean progesterone levels were a good indicators of positive confirmation of pregnancy and non-pregnancy, respectively. Moreover, the determination of higher progesterone levels (> 8.2 ng/ml) and estradiol-17β (>120 pg/ml) during 14 to 150 days of gestation in an individual mare confirmed the early pregnancy, whereas lower progesterone (< 3.7 ng/ml) and estradiol-17β (<100 pg/ml) level confirmed the non-pregnancy. However, estradiol-17β value > 155 pg/ml between 76 to 150 days of pregnancy also offered the most reliable method of pregnancy diagnosis by radioimmunoassay. Hence, transrectal ultrasonography and plasma progesterone and estradiol-17β assay may be used alone or in combination for the confirmation of early pregnancy in mares.
  • ThesisItemOpen Access
    MANAGEMENT OF REPEAT BREEDING IN GIR COWS USING HORMONAL THERAPY
    (AAU, Anand, 2012) PARMAR, SACHIN VINODBHAI; PATEL, J. A.
    This study was carried out on 24 repeat breeding Gir cows of Muniseva Ashram Gaumandir, Goraj, Waghodiya, Vadodara, during the period from October 2011 to March 2012, to evaluate the relative efficiency of various hormonal treatments towards enhancing their reproductive performance together with the evaluation of weekly plasma progesterone profile and various blood biochemical and macro-micro minerals from the day of treatment up to 6 weeks post-treatment. All the breedable females (n=215) of the herd were screened clinically and by per rectal examinations to know the incidence of reproductive problems. Twenty four repeat breeding cows selected were divided at random .in to four groups, 6 animals in each. Animals of group I were treated with single i/m injection of 0.02 mg buserrlin acetate (GnRH analogue; 5 ml Receptal, Intervet India Ltd.) and those of Group II with single i/m injection of 1500 lU hCG (Chorulon, Intervet India Ltd.) immediately after natural breeding, while animals of Group III were administered with 500 mg of hydroxy-progesterone caproate (Proluton depot, Zydus Cadila.) on 6th day of natural breeding and those of Group IV bred at estrus without any treatment served as control. Blood samples were collected in heparinized vials on day 0 (estrus) and then at weekly interval up to 6 weeks post-breeding in GnRH, LH and control groups, except in progesterone group in which blood was collected on day 0 (estrus), day 6 just before treatment) and then at weekly interval up to 6 weeks. Plasma samples separated were stored deep frozen at -20°C with a drop of Merthiolate until analyzed. The incidence of repeat breeding was almost similar in adult cows and heifers (46.87 vs 45.45%) with an overall incidence of repeat breeding as 46.51 (100/215) per cent. The incidence of anestrus condition was observed to be higher in cows than the heifers (25.00 vs 18.18 %) with an overall mean of 23.25 (50/215) per cent. In repeat breeding Gir cows, the first service and overall conception rates obtained following hormonal treatment with GnRH were 50.00 and 66.66, with LH 83.33 and 83.33 and Progesterone 50.00 and 66.66 per cent, respectively, with an overall mean of 61.11 and 72.22 per cent. These figures were significantly higher (P<0.01) than those (16.66 and 33.33 %) obtained in untreated control repeat breeding cows. The pooled mean plasma progesterone concentrations in all three hormones GnRH, LH/hCG and progesterone treated and control group were 3.712 ± 0.377, 4.823 ± 0.371, 3.973 ± 0.458 and 2.813 ± 0.381 ng/ml, respectively, with an overall mean of 3.830 ± 0.205 ng/ml. The progesterone value was at basal level on the day of estrus, which increased significantly (P<0.05) by 7th day post-estrus, fluctuated insignificantly till 6th week with the peak value on 5th week post-oestrus. In LH treated cows, the mean plasma progesterone value was significantly (P < 0.05) higher as compared to control group (4.823 ± 0.371 vs 2.813 ± 0.381 ng/ml). The mean plasma P4 levels in conceived and non-conceived groups were 5.266 ± 0.277 and 2.394 ± 0.207 ng/ml (P <0.01). The progesterone concentration in conceived group remained more or less at constant high level till 6th week post-breeding, while in non-conceived cows it showed rising trend up to 2nd week followed by drop on 3rd week (1.016 ± 0.171 ng/ml), which then again rose gradually and significantly to reach second peak on 5th week (4.616 ± 0.394 ng/ml), again dropped at 6th week and thus showed a cyclic trend suggestive of repeat estruses. The overall mean values of biochemical constituents, viz., plasma total protein, total cholesterol and triglycerides were 9.786 ± 0.084 g/dl, 217.857 ± 2.570 mg/dl and 61.008 ± 1.137 mg/dl, respectively. There was no any significant difference among treatment groups as well as between conceived and non-conceived groups, or even between weeks within the group. However, the mean plasma concentration of cholesterol was lower in LH treated group as compared to untreated control group. The overall mean values of macro-minerals, viz., calcium, inorganic phosphorus, Ca:P ratio and magnesium were 11.918 ± 0.159 mg/dl, 8.193 ± 0.123 mg/dl, 1.516 ± 0.032 and 1.818 ± 0.028 mEq/L without significant differences between conceived and non-conceived groups or between weeks, except Ca:P ratio and magnesium. The mean plasma magnesium levels in GnRH, LH and Progesterone treated groups were 2.341 ± 0.047, 1.731 ±0.023 and 1.620 ± 0.021 mEq/L, respectively. The differences among treated groups were significant (P<0.05) only for this trait. The overall mean values of trace elements, viz., zinc, iron, copper and manganese were 1.549 ± 0.008 ppm, 2.119 ± 0.023 ppm, 0.779 ± 0.005 ppm and 0.090 ± 0.001 ppm, respectively. The mean concentrations of zinc and copper were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in three treated (GnRH, LH and Progesterone) groups as compared to untreated control repeat breeding cows. The values were significantly higher (P < 0.01) in conceived group as compared to non-conceived group for zinc (1.587 ± 0.012 vs 1.511 ± 0.011 ppm), iron (2.238 ± 0.018 vs 2.001 ±0.038 ppm), copper (0.834 ± 0.007 vs 0.724 ± 0.002 ppm), and manganese (0.094 ±0.001 vs 0.087±0.001 ppm), and they varied significantly between weeks for copper and manganese also. Overall, the plasma P4 profile helped to monitor the cyclic rhythm of repeat breeder cows and the hormonal therapy, especially LH, was found highly effective in solving repeat breeding problem in Gir cows of the herd investigated.
  • ThesisItemOpen Access
    STUDIES ON SEASONAL VARIATION IN SEMEN QUALITY OF SURTI BUFFALO BULLS
    (AAU, Anand, 2012) KHAWASKAR MEGHA VINOD; Dr. M.T. Panchal
    This investigation was carried at the Semen Station, Anand Veterinary College, Anand (Gujarat) on a total of 60 semen ejaculates (10 ejaculates/bull/season) collected from 2 sexually mature bulls over one year period divided in to three seasons (monsoon, winter and summer). The objectives were to study the seasonal variations in the seminal characteristics including acrosomal structures and membrane integrity of sperm, and biochemical and enzymatic profile of seminal plasma, and the interrelationships among the physico-morphological, biochemical and functional attributes of semen of Surti buffalo bulls. The gross and microscopic evaluation of seminal characteristics including cold shock test, hypo-osmotic swelling (HOS) test, methylene blue reduction test and cervical mucus penetration test was carried out as per standard procedures. Initial seminal fructose was estimated by using resorcinol method. Seminal plasma biochemical and enzymatic profiles, viz., total protein, total cholesterol, AKP-ACP and GOT-GPT were determined using standard procedures and assay kits on an auto-analyzer. The data were analyzed statistically using 2 factors factorial CRD on SAS Programme to know the effect of bulls, seasons and bull x season interaction on each of the parameters studied. Finally the correlations between various physico-morphological and biochemical attributes were worked out. The overall mean ejaculate volume, consistency/density score (0-4), initial pH, mass activity (score 0-5), individual sperm motility, sperm concentration, live sperm, total abnormal sperm and sperm with intact acrosome recorded in Surti buffalo bulls’ semen were 3.16 ± 0.76 ml, 3.05 ± 0.92, 6.89 ± 0.16, 2.96 ± 0.18, 71.66 ± 12.37 per cent, 885.42 ± 242.90 millions/ml, 85.75 ± 4.65 per cent, 6.53±1.28 per cent and 90.73 ± 3.16 per cent, respectively. The bulls varied significantly only in their ejaculate volume (P<0.008), sperm concentration (P<0.002) and live sperm per cent (P<0.014). Seasonal influence was significant for ejaculate volume (P<0.002), density score (P<0.05), mass activity (P<0.002), sperm concentration (P<0.047), live sperm (P<0.001), abnormal vi sperm (P<0.003) and intact acrosome (P<0.022). The lowest values observed during winter were for ejaculate volume, sperm concentration and live sperm per cent, whereas density, mass activity and individual motility was the lowest during monsoon, and abdormal sperm per cent during summer. However, the bull x season interaction was not significant for any of these attributes. The average values for cold shock resistant (live) sperm, hypo-osmotic swelling reactive sperm, methylene blue reduction time and cervical mucus penetrance score (0-3) for Surti buffalo ejaculates were 53.45 ± 8.30 per cent, 59.28 ± 6.10 per cent, 7.11 ± 1.28 minutes and 2.20±0.74, respectively. The influence of bulls was insignificant on all these traits, however, seasonal influence was significant for cold shock resistant and hypoosmotic swelling reactive sperm (P<0.000). The lowest mean values for all four functional tests were observed during summer and the highest during monsoon, except CMPT which was highest during winter. Further, the bull x season interaction was significant only for cold shock resistant (live) sperm. The overall average seminal plasma contents of fructose, total protein, total cholesterol and enzyme AKP, ACP, GOT and GPT activity recorded were 586.61±65.77 mg/dl, 2.54 ± 0.51 g/dl, 53.71±10.05 mg/dl, 53.71±10.05 KAU/dl, 246.78 ± 27.92 KAU/dl, 57.30 ± 10.73 IU/L and 15.38 ± 5.75 IU/L, respectively. The bulls varied significantly only in their seminal plasma content of fructose (P<0.000), protein (P<0.014) and alkaline phosphatase (P<0.000). Seasonal influence was highly significant (P<0.000) for initial fructose and all four enzymes. The lowest values for fructose, protein, AKP and GPT were observed during summer and for cholesterol, ACP and GPT during monsoon. Further, the bull x season interaction was significant for seminal fructose and total proteins only. The interrelationships between various physico-morphological, functional and biochemical attributes of buffalo semen revealed that the ejaculate volume was significantly correlated with cold shock resistant sperm (0.35), MBRT (0.26), seminal fructose (0.46) and ACP (-0.35). Sperm concentration was significantly correlated with live sperm (0.30), MBRT (-0.31) and seminal AKP (-0.54). Mass activity was significantly correlated with abnormal sperm (-0.26), cold shock resistant sperm (-0.39), seminal fructose (-0.29), GOT (0.44), GPT (-0.28), AKP (-0.39) and ACP (0.26). Initial motility had significant correlation with live sperm (-0.27), HOS reactive sperm (0.25). vii Seminal pH had significant correlation with seminal cholesterol (0.26). Live sperm per cent was significantly correlated with HOS reactive sperm (-0.49), cold shock resistant sperm (-0.56) and seminal AKP (-0.41). The abnormal sperm per cent was significantly correlated with intact acrosome (0.25), cold shock resistant sperm (0.32), seminal fructose (0.33), cholesterol (-0.41), GOT (-0.32), AKP (0.27) and ACP (-0.51). The intact acrosome showed significant correlation with HOS reactive sperm (0.37) and seminal GPT (-0.33), whereas HOS reactive sperm was significantly correlated with live sperm (-0.49), cold shock resistant sperm (0.29) and seminal GOT (0.32). The cold shock resistant sperm was significantly correlated with seminal fructose (0.34), GOT (-0.36), GPT (0.29), AKP (0.59) and ACP (-0.37). The MBRT was significantly correlated only with seminal fructose (0.32). Amongst the biochemical and enzymatic attributes, significant correlations were observed for seminal fructose with seminal GOT (-0.43), GPT (0.36) and ACP (-0.38); seminal total protein with seminal GOT (-0.76); cholesterol with ACP (0.27); seminal GOT with GPT (-0.43), AKP (-0.44) and ACP (0.46); seminal GPT with AKP (0.42), and seminal AKP with ACP (-0.41). In general, the initial semen quality, in terms of physico-morphological and functional attributes, of Surti buffalo bulls under study was of good to average type and was within acceptable limit for use in artificial breeding programme. The seminal plasma profile of biochemical and enzymatic constituents studied was within the normal physiological limit for bovines and indicated optimal functioning of gonads and all the accessory sex glands. Most of the physico-morphological, functional and biochemical/ enzymatic attributes were highly significantly (P<0.001) influenced by the seasons, suggesting that Surti buffalo bulls are sensitive to seasonal variation in agro-climatic conditions of the region. Overall winter season was found to be more congenial for better quality semen production as compared to monsoon and summer season. Significant interrelationships observed between some of the physico-morphological attributes of semen and biochemical constituents of seminal plasma suggested that a good functional coordination existed between gonads and accessory sex glands in the Surti buffalo bulls towards optimizing reproductive functions, and that the assessment of motility, morphology and viability may be sufficient to predict the quality of fresh semen fairly accurately, without going into too clumsy, time consuming tests under routine laboratory procedures.
  • ThesisItemOpen Access
    “MANAGEMENT OF REPEAT BREEDING IN GIR COWS USING HORMONAL THERAPY
    (Anand Agricultural University, Anand, 2012) PARMAR SACHIN VINODBHAI; Dr. J. A. Patel
    This study was carried out on 24 repeat breeding Gir cows of Muniseva Ashram Gaumandir, Goraj, Waghodiya, Vadodara, during the period from October 2011 to March 2012, to evaluate the relative efficiency of various hormonal treatments towards enhancing their reproductive performance together with the evaluation of weekly plasma progesterone profile and various blood biochemical and macro-micro minerals from the day of treatment up to 6 weeks post-treatment