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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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ThesisItem Open 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.ThesisItem Open Access Effect of Antioxidants on Refrigeration (5°C) and Cryopreservation (-196°C) of Buffalo Semen(AAU, Anand, 2015) VARGHESE, ORIN; DHAMI, A. J.This study was undertaken on five sexually mature healthy buffalo bulls of Surti breed during the breeding season at Central Sperm Station of the College. The bulls were maintained in nearly identical nutritional and managemental conditions throughout the period of study and were regularly dewormed and vaccinated against FMD & HS. They were in regular, twice a week, semen collection schedule using AV. Eight ejaculates with >70% initial motility were studied from each of the 5 bulls at weekly interval. Soon after collection, the ejaculates were evaluated for routine physicomorphological attributes, including motility, viability, morphology (eosin-nigrosin), 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. Each ejaculate was then divided into five equal aliquots, and extended at the concentration of 100 x10 power 6 spermatozoa ml-1 at 34°C with standard Tris citrate fructose egg yolk glycerol (TFYG) extender as control and TFYG having 2 additives - Cysteine HCl (0.5 & 1.0 mg/ml) and Taurine (4.0 & 6.0 mg/ml)- each at 2 levels to study their comparative efficacy for refrigeration (5°C up to 72 hrs) and cryopreservation (-196°C) of buffalo semen based on above 5 sperm quality parameters, including interrelationships of these parameters in fresh, refrigerated and cryopreserved semen. Small portions of the extended semen samples (2 ml from each aliquot) were transferred to a refrigerator for 5°C preservation and evaluated at 24 hrs interval up to 72 hrs for above quality parameters. The remaining portions of extended semen samples were used for filling the French mini straws on IS4 system (IMV, France). After gradual cooling over 60-90 minutes and equilibration for 4 hrs in cold handling cabinet, the straws were frozen in liquid nitrogen vapour using a programmable bio-freezer (Digitcool 5300, IMV, France). The straws of all 5 extenders were evaluated on dilution, at pre-freezing (after equilibration) and after 18-24 hrs of freezing (post-freeze stage) for the above quality parameters. Post-thaw incubation test (37 °C) was also performed to evaluate sperm survival after 1,2 and 3 hr of incubation. The mean values of ejaculate volume, density (1-4 score), sperm concentration, mass activity (0-5 score), individual sperm motility, live sperm, abnormal sperm, intact acrosome and HOS reactive sperms observed in fresh semen in Surti bulls were 3.04±0.11 ml, 3.06±0.08, 963.05±50.97 million/ml, 2.97±0.06, 75.00±0.69 %, 88.22 ±0.48 %, 4.40±0.26 %, 93.67±0.31 % and 89.17±0.57 %, respectively. The variation between bulls was significant (P<0.05) only for HOS test. With respect to cryopreservation, the overall mean percentages of progressively motile spermatozoa observed initially, after equilibration (pre-freeze stage) and after freezing (post-thaw stage) of buffalo semen split-diluted in TFYG extender, irrespective of additives, were 79.25±0.37, 70.15±0.43 and 41.72±0.53, respectively. The corresponding values for live spermatozoa were 84.80±0.32, 76.61±0.45, 48.05±0.55 %; morphologically abnormal spermatozoa 4.73±0.11, 5.94±0.12 and 8.23±0.13 %; intact acrosomes 92.40±0.18, 89.20±0.21 and 83.06±0.18 % and HOST reactive sperms 84.77±0.35, 75.25±0.46 and 46.42±0.56 %, respectively, all of which differed highly significantly (P<0.01) between stages of freezing process. The mean percentages of progressively motile spermatozoa observed soon on dilution (initial/0 hr) in control TFYG extender and in extender having cysteine 0.5 & 1 mg/ml and taurine 4 & 6 mg/ml were 75.12±0.76, 77.75±0.69, 80.51±0.65, 81.75±0.79 and 81.00±0.82, respectively. The corresponding values for live spermatozoa were 82.75±0.76, 84.27±0.66, 85.95±0.65, 86.17±0.64 and 84.80±0.82 %; intact acrosomes 92.85±0.34, 93.07±0.31, 91.00*2.30, 92.22±0.39 and 90.55±0.43 % and HOS reactive sperms 82.72±0.91, 83.40±0.70, 85.72±0.67, 86.25±0.64 and 85.62±0.86 %, respectively. The mean percentages of progressively motile spermatozoa observed after equilibration (at pre-freeze stage) in control TFYG and TFYG with cysteine 0.5 & 1 mg/ml and taurine 4 & 6 mg/ml were 65.37±0.84, 68.37±0.81, 72.62±0.69, 73.25±0.81 and 71.12±1.02; and after freezing-thawing 38.37±0.95, 39.50±0.80, 46.50±0.72, 50.00±0.62 and 34.25±0.71, respectively. The corresponding values of live spermatozoa observed at pre-freeze stage in control TFYG and in TFYG with cysteine 0.5 & 1 mg/ml and taurine 4 & 6 mg/ml were 72.75±0.99, 70.62±0.81, 78.97±0.93, 79.37±0.88 and 76.32±1.14 %; and after freezing-thawing 44.82±1.02, 46.37±0.99, 52.97±0.79, 55.02±0.80 and 41.07±0.99 %, respectively. The mean percentages of morphologically abnormal spermatozoa observed at pre-freeze stage in control TFYG diluent and in TFYG with cysteine 0.5 & 1 mg/ml and taurine 4 & 6 mg/ml were 6.35±0.27, 5.73±0.28, 5.45±0.25, 5.80±0.28 and 6.38±0.29; and after freezing-thawing 9.10±0.22, 8.15±0.26, 7.10±0.26, 7.90±0.29 and 8.90±0.31 %, respectively. The overall mean values of sperms with head, midpiece and tail abnormalities recorded initially were 1.19±0.04, 1.54±0.04 and 2.01±0.08 %, respectively. The corresponding values noted after equilibration (pre-freeze stage) of extended semen were 1.33±0.04, 1.99±0.05 and 2.70±0.09 %, and after freezing (postthaw stage) 1.62±0.04,2.58±0.06 and 4.03±0.09 %, respectively. The mean percentages of spermatozoa with intact acrosomes found at pre-freeze stage in control TFYG and in TFYG with cysteine 0.5 & 1 mg/ml and taurine 4 & 6 mg/ml were 89.70±0.39, 90.58±0.34, 90.90±0.35, 88.53±0.46 and 86.28±0.45; and after freezing-thawing 82.43±0.32, 84.40±0.18, 85.73±0.18, 82.75±0.30 and 79.98±0.35 %, respectively. The overall mean percentages of sperms with swollen, ruffled, detached and denuded acrosome, and total damaged acrosomes recorded initially were 3.18±0.08, 2.30±0.06, 1.36±0.04, 0.76±0.04 and 7.58±0.18 %, respectively. The corresponding values noted after equilibration (pre-freeze stage) of extended semen were 4.55±0.09, 3.30±0.08, 1.85±0.05, 1.11±0.04 and 10.80±0.21 %, and after freezing (post-thaw stage) were 6.73±0.07, 5.25±0.07, 2.99±0.06, 1.94±0.05 and 16.94±0.18 %, respectively. The values of all the traits differed highly significantly (P < 0.01) between stages/periods of cryopreservation process. The mean percentages of spermatozoa with biochemically active intact plasma membrane recorded at pre-freeze stage in control TFYG extender and in TFYG with cysteine 0.5 & 1 mg/ml and taurine 4 & 6 mg/ml 70.82±0.92, 74.17±0.93, 78.12±0.79, 78.08±0.95 and 75.03±1.08; and after freezing-thawing 42.52±1.04, 45.10±1.04, 51.62±0.82, 53.73±0.69 and 39.10±0.91 %, respectively. The mean percentages of motile spermatozoa observed immediately after thav^ng (0 hr), and after 1, 2 and 3 hrs of post-thaw incubation at 37°C in water bath were 41.52±0.57, 27.88±0.58, 15.05±0.58 and 5.47±0.35 (P<0.01), respectively. The mean percentages of progressively motile spermatozoa observed in control TFYG with cysteine 0.5 mg/ml and 1 mg/ml and taurine 4 mg/ml and 6 mg/ml after 1 hr of post-thaw incubation were 24.13±0.88, 27.18±1.02, 32.75±0.82, 36.13±0.92 and 19.25±0.88; after 2 hrs of incubation 12.38±0.86, 14.38±0.84, 18.88±0.70, 21.50±0.88 and 8.13±0.64 %, and after 3 hrs of incubation 3.25±0.58, 4.63±0.58, 8.88±0.66, 10.00±0.65 and 0.63±0.2 %, respectively. Significantly higher progressive motility, better viability and post-thaw survival, acrosome integrity and HOS reactivity with fewer abnormalities of sperm/acrosome were observed at all stages of cryopreservation of buffalo semen extended with TFYG extender having taurine 4 mg/ml and cysteine 1 mg/ml than cysteine 0.5 mg/ml and control TFYG, while taurine 6 mg/ml in TFYG showed comparatively inferior results towards cryopreservability of buffalo semen may be due to its hypertonicity and osmotoxic effect induced by this higher level. As regards to refrigeration preservation, the overall mean percentages of progressively motile spermatozoa observed on dilution in TFYG based extender at (0- hr), and after 24, 48 and 72 hrs of refrigeration preservation of split-diluted semen samples were 79.22±0.37, 66.75±0.40, 58.02±0.43 and 50.20±0.49 respectively. The corresponding values for live spermatozoa were 84.79±0.31, 72.66±0.45, 63.53±0.48 and 55.99±0.51 %; abnormal sperms 5.17±0.46, 5.79±0.11, 7.05±0.12 and 8.56±0.13 %; intact acrosome 91.94±0.48, 89.85±0.18, 86.80±0.18 and 83.55±0.22 %, and HOST reactive sperm were 84.47±0.35, 72.00±0.46, 62.50±0.48 and 54.95±0.50%, respectively. All these traits differed highly significantly (P<0.01) between refrigeration intervals with progressive decline in sperm quality with increasing storage time. The mean percentages of progressively motile spermatozoa observed after 24 hrs of refrigeration storage in control TFYG extender and in extender having cysteine 0.5 & 1 mg/ml and taurine 4 & 6 mg/ml were 62.37±0.66, 65.37±0.76, 70.00±0.69, 69.00 ±0.82 and 67.00±1.02, respectively. The corresponding live spermatozoa were 82.75 ±0.76, 84.27±0.66, 85.95±0.65, 86.17±0.64 and 84.80±0.82; abnormal sperms 68.60± 0.77, 72.05±0.92, 75.87±0.69, 75.05±0.93 and 71.75±1.17; intact acrosomes 89.75 ±0.31, 90.92±0.25, 91.72±0.32, 89.42±0.39 and 87.45±0.34; and HOS reactive sperms 67.35±0.70, 71.17±0.90, 75.30±0.93,74.37±1.00 and 71.80±1.13 %, respectively. The mean percentages of progressively motile spermatozoa observed after 72 hrs of refrigeration storage in control TFYG extender and in extender having cysteine 0.5 & 1 mg/ml and taurine 4 & 6 mg/ml vy^ere 44.57±0.92, 48.87±0.93, 55.00±0.85, 55.00± 0.82 and 47.62±0.91, respectively. The corresponding values for live spermatozoa were 50.47±1.03, 54.85±1.05, 60.50±0.85, 60.20±0.93 and 53.95±1.01; abnormal sperms 9.28±0.29, 8.30±0.25, 7.78±0.26, 8.23±0.31 and 9.23±0.24; intact acrosomes 83.10± 0.33, 85.10±0.29, 86.32±0.31, 82.50±0.47 and 79.75±0.39; and HOS reactive sperms 49.67±0.94, 53.40±0.94, 59.85±1.01, 59.00±0.82 and 52.77±0.99 %, respectively. Significantly higher progressive sperm motility, better viability, acrosome integrity and HOS reactivity with lesser sperm/acrosome abnormalities of buffalo spermatozoa were observed at all intervals of refrigeration storage (0-72 hrs) in semen diluted with standard TFYG extender having cysteine HCl 1 mg/ml or taurine 4 mg/ml as additive than with 0.5 mg/ml cysteine and 6 mg/ml taurine and both the additives maintained significantly better sperm quality when compared with non-added control TFYG diluents. Taurine 6 mg/ml at times revealed insignificant differences with control TFYG for some sperm parameters, particularly intact acrosome which was significantly depressed. Thus in general, TFYG with cysteine HCl 1.0 mg/ml or taurine 4.0 mg/ml has been considered as a better additive for refrigeration preservation, while cysteine HCl 1 mg/ml and 0.5 mg/ml was better for cryopreservation, while taurine at 6 mg/ml level was found to be detrimental/toxic to buffalo sperm particularly at post-thaw stage. Hence, standard TFYG diluent with cysteine HCl 1.0 mg/ml or taurine 4.0 mg/ml can be recommended as a better option for improved refrigeration and cryopreservation of buffalo semen. However, actual fertility trials are required to substantiate the present findings. Some of the interrelationships between sperm motility, viability, morphology, intact acrosome and plasma membrane integrity in fresh, refrigerated and cryopreserved buffalo semen were observed to be significant (P<0.01), which proved that initial motility and membrane integrity can be used as predicative measures in routine semen evaluation.ThesisItem Open Access RELATIVE EFFICACIES OF DIFFERENCES HORMONAL THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES IN REPEAT BREEDING DAIRY ANIMALS(AAU, Anand, 2015) PARMAR, CHIRAGKUMAR PRATAPSINH; PATEL, D. M.This study was carried out in villages of Amul as well as Panchamrut milk shed areas of Gujarat on 80 repeat breeding animals comprising 40 each cows and buffaloes, and 10 each normal cyclic cows and buffaloes (exhibiting oestrus within 90 days postpartum). The objectives were to evaluate and compare the therapeutic efficacy of various hormonal approaches, viz., Ovsynch protocol, Mid cycle PGFaa, AI+hCG inj. and Progesterone inj. 5th day post-AI, and to monitor the influence of these therapies on plasma progesterone, biochemical and minerals profiles on different days of treatment in cows and buffaloes. Ten repeat breeding cows and buffaloes each with average body condition score (BCS) of 2.75 to 3.50, without visible and palpable genital abnormalities were treated initially once with SC injection of ivermection 100 mg, IM injection of 3.0 g enrofloxacin to check invisible genital infection, IM injection of inorganic phosphorus and multivitamins AD3E. Owners of the animals were supplied with multimineral bolus for PC use, one bolus on alternate day for four times. In Ovsynch protocol ten each repeat breeding cows and buffaloes were administered with IM inj. of Buserelin acetate 10 µg on day 0, inj. Cloprostenol 500 µg on day 7, and second inj. of Buserelin acetate 10 µg was given IM on day 9, followed by FTAI twice 0 and 24 hrs later. The conception rates obtained in cows at induced estrus, second estrus, third estrus and overall were 50.00 (5/10), 20.00 (1/5), 25.00 (1/4) and 70.00 (7/10) per cent, respectively. The corresponding values in buffaloes were 40.00 (4/10), 33.33 (2/6), 0.00 (0/4) and 60.00 (6/10). The mean intervals from PGFα injection to induced estrus in Ovsynch treated cows and buffaloes were 81.17±0.63 and 78.73±1.10 hrs, respectively, with cent per cent estrus response.ThesisItem Open 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.ThesisItem Open Access COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF DIFFERENT ESTRUS INDUCTION AND SYNCHRONIZATION PROTOCOLS IN ANOESTRUS COWS AND BUFFALOES(AAU, Anand, 2015) BUHECHA, KISHANKUMAR VINODBHAI; DHAMI, A. J.This investigation was aimed to evaluate the clinical response and monitor the peripheral plasma progesterone, biochemical and macro-minerals profiles in postpartum anoestrus crossbred cows and buffaloes treated with different standard hormonal protocols (TriU-B/PRID, Ovsynch and Heatsynch), keeping untreated anoestrus control and normal cyclic control groups. The study was carried out in the villages of Anand and Mahisagar districts of Gujarat as well as Livestock Research Station of NAU, Navsari. The work was carried out on 92 true anoestrus cows and buffaloes (46 each) with more than 90 days postpartum period, and 20 normal cyclic control cows and buffaloes (10 each) that exhibited spontaneous estrus within 90 days postpartum. The animals selected were followed for a period of 3 months post-treatment/post-breeding. All infertile animals identified were dewormed using Inj. Ivermectin @ 100 mg s/c and were also treated once initially with i/m injection of inorganic phosphorus (Inj. Alphos- 40 @ 10 ml, Pfizer Animal Health) and multivitamins AD3E (Inj. Vetacept @ 10 ml. Concept Pharma) and were supplied with multi-minerals bolus (Minotas, Intas Pharma) @ 1 bolus daily for 7 days. The effect of three hormonal protocols was evaluated by comparing the estrus induction response, estrus induction interval and induced/first estrus (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, 9/10-AI) of treatment and day 21 post-FTAI in anoestrus buffaloes, and on day of estrus/AI and day 21 post-AI in anoestrus control and normal cyclic control groups. Twelve true anoestrus crossbred cows and buffaloes each (Gr.-I) were treated with TriU-B (0.96 g progesterone in elastic rubber moulded over a cross "S" shaped nylon spine, Virbac) intravaginally for 7 days with a regular 1/m dose of 500 μg PGF2α (Repregma 2 ml, Vet Mankind) o n the sixth day, and estradiol benzoate 0.75 mg (Sigma) on 7th day while removing the insert and FTAI was done twice on day 8 and 9. Similarly, 12 true anoestrus cows and buffaloes each in Gr.-II (Ovsynch protocol) were administered with i/m Inj. of Buserelin acetate 10 μg (GnRH analogue, Inj. Ovulanta @ 2.5 ml. Vet Mankind) on day 0, Inj. PGF2α 500 μg (Inj. Repregma @ 2 ml) on day 7, and second injection of Buserelin acetate 10 μg (Ovulanta @ 2.5 ml) on day 9, with FTAI on day 9 and 10, and in Gr.-III (Heatsynch protocol) 12 anoestrus cow and buffaloes each were administered with i/m injection of Buserelin acetate 10 µg (Inj. Ovulanta @ 2.5 ml) followed by injection PGF2α 500 μg (Repregma @ 2 ml) and estradiol benzoate 1 mg (Sigma) on days 0, 7 and 8, respectively, with FTAIs on day 10 M/E using good quality frozen-thawed semen.ThesisItem Open 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.ThesisItem Open 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.ThesisItem Open Access ULTRASONOGRAPHY IN FOLLICULAR DYNAMICS, FERTILITY MANAGEMENT AND EARLY PREGNANCY DIAGNOSIS IN CATTLE(AAU, Anand, 2014) HADIYA, KAMLESHBHAI KHODABHAI; Dhami, A. J.These investigations were undertaken on 60 Gir and HF x K Crossbred cattle of University farm in Anand from January to June 2014 with the objectives to study the follicular dynamics of spontaneous as well as hormonally (Mid-cycle PG, Ovsynch and CIDR) induced estrous cycles and even during early pregnancy in postpartum cows and postpubertal heifers using real time B-mode transrectal ultrasound scanning; to detect early pregnancy and embryonic mortality using clinical diagnosis and ultrasonography; to evaluate the efficacy of estrus synchronization protocols toward fertility improvement in subfertile cows; to monitor blood biochemical and plasma endocrine profile of spontaneous and induced cycles during treatment and thereafter at weekly interval until next estrus or 42 days of pregnancy; and to correlate plasma progesterone and estradiol profile with ovarian changes during estrous cycle and early pregnancy. The normal cyclic (24) and infertile (36) animals were thoroughly screened for their genital health through gynaeco-clinical examinations. They were subjected to transrectal ultrasonographic scanning to study the follicular dynamics during various reproductive phases and during estrus synchronization treatments. The animals found in spontaneous or induced estrus were inseminated with good quality frozen-thawed semen. Pregnancy was confirmed in non-return cases on day 23, 28, 35 and 42 using transrectal ultrasonography and per rectal palpation 60 days post-AI. Infertile animals (subestrus and repeat breeders) were included in estrus synchronization protocols, viz.. Mid-cycle PG, Ovsynch and CIDR, and subsequent ovarian follicular/luteal dynamics, blood profile and fertility evaluation. Six subestrus/ repeat breeding postpartum cows each of Gir & Crossbreds (6x2 = 12) having mid cycle mature CL were treated with single i/m injection of 500 ng cloprostenol, and fix timed AI was performed at 72 and 96 hrs post-treatment. Ultrasound scanning of the animals was performed daily from start of treatment till expression of induced estrus/FTAI and/or ovulation with blood sampling. Similarly, six infertile cyclic cows each of Gir and Crossbred category (6x2=12) were treated with standard CIDR protocol and equal numbers (6x2=12) with Ovsynch protocol using FTAI on day 9 and 10. The ovarian changes were monitored daily with blood sampling on day 0 (initiation of treatment), 2, 4, 6, 7 (PG injection), 8,9 (GnRH injection), and day 10 (induced estrus/FTAI). All 36 induced cycling and fix timed inseminated cows together with 24 spontaneously cycling and inseminated cows {cows (n=12) and heifers (n=12), 6 each of Gir and Crossbred type} were further monitored for follicular dynamics daily from the day of AI till day 21 post-AI and then for early pregnancy in non-return cases through uterine scanning with 6.5 MHz transducer, together with jugular blood sampling at weekly interval, i.e. on day 0 (AI), 7, 14, 21 post-AI and then on day 23, 28, 35 and 42 post-AI in non-return cases for assay of blood glucose and plasma total cholesterol, estradiol and progesterone profile. All these inseminated animals (n=60) not returned to estrus again were monitored through transrectal USG (6.5 MHz) for detection of early pregnancy and/or embryonic mortality on day 23, 28, 35 and 42 post-AI, and the findings were correlated with plasma P4 on day 21 and per rectal palpation on day 60 post-AI. The characteristics of dominant and ovulatory follicles observed between two consecutive estruses in 24 unbred animals, comprising of 12 heifers and 12 cows, 6 each of Gir and HF x K crossbred genotype, using 7.5 MHz tranrectal linear array transducer indicated the presence of two- and three-wave cycles in 66.66 (n=12) and 33.33 (n=6) per cent, respectively, of all heifers and crossbred cows, while in Gir cows the frequency of 2- and 3-wave cycles was equal. None of the animals showed single-wave cycle. The second wave appeared earlier in the estrous cycle with 3-wave than with 2-wave (9.00±1.00 vs 10.00±0.58 days; P<0.01). The persistence of the first dominant follicle and duration of regression phase were significantly (P<0.05) longer in 2-wave than in 3-wave cycles (20.25±0.25 vs 19.00±0.00 days and 7.25±0.62 vs 5.00±0.00 days). The maximum diameter of ovulatory follicle was significantly higher (P<0.05) in 3-wave as compared to 2-wave pattern (13.70±0.10 vs 12.55±0.27 mm). The linear growth rate of first dominant follicle was significantly (P<0.01) higher in 2-wave as compared to 3-wave cycle (1.09±0.19 vs 0.46±0.11 mm/day). Similarly, the linear growth of ovulatory follicles was significantly (P<0.05) higher in 3-wave than the 2-wave cycles in all animals. The duration and end day of second dominant follicle were significantly (P<0.05) longer in 2-wave as compared to 3-wave cycle (12.00±0.70 vs 6.00±0.00, 21.50±0.28 vs 14.50±0.50). The emergence of ovulatory follicle was significantly (P<0.01) earlier in 2- wave (9.50±0.50 days) as compared to 3-wave cycle (14.50±0.50 days). Similarly, the duration of ovulatory follicles differed significantly (P<0.01) between 2- and 3-wave cycles (12.00±0.70 vs 7.00±0.00 days). The diameter of ovulatory follicle of 2-wave cycle was significantly (P<0.05) larger than 3~wave cycle (17.22±0.79 vs 14,65±0.45 mm). The ovulatory follicle of 2-wave cycle in crossbred cows appeared significantly (P<0.01) earlier than 3-wave cycle (days 9.00±0.71 vs 14.50±0.50). The persistence of ovulatory follicle was significantly longer (P<0.01) in 2-wave as compared to 3-wave cycle (12.00 ±0.70 vs 7.50±0.50 days). Two- and three-wave cycles differed significantly (P<0.05) with respect to the mean interovulatory interval (22.33±0.33 vs 24.00±0.00 days). In Crossbred cows with 2-wave cycle, there was no relationship between the development of first dominant follicle and presence of CL in either of the ovaries, while in 3-wave cycle the first dominant follicle and the ovulatory follicle developed on opposite side to the ovary bearing the CL, while the second dominant follicle developed on the same ovary bearing the CL in both Gir and Crossbred cows. Similarly, no pattern was observed for the development of ovulatory follicle with respect to first dominant follicle on the ovaries in 2-wave cycle. However, the proportion of ovulatory follicles was higher on opposite side as compared to same side to the first dominant follicle in 2-wave cycle in both the breeds. In 3-wave cycle the second dominant follicle developed opposite to first dominant follicle and the ovulatory follicle developed opposite to second dominant follicle in all the animals. Thus, there was no difference in the pattern of this phenomenon between two breeds studied. In Gir and Crossbred cows, there were positive correlations between CL diameter and plasma P4 values (r = 0.82 & 0.72), and follicle size and E2 values (r = 0.69 «& 0.36). The average plasma P4 values were higher (P<0.01) and E2 values lower on day 7 and 14 than on day 0 and 21 post-estrus, with corresponding larger CL and smaller follicular size in both Gir and Crossbreds. The profiles of follicular growth and regression compared for first 21 days post-AI in conceived and in non-bred cyclic Gir & Crossbred cows revealed the fi-equency of occurrence of two follicular wave up to 75.00 (6/8) per cent in pregnant and 58.33 (7/12) per cent in non-bred cyclic cows, while the remaining seven cows (2 pregnant and 5 cyclic) showed three follicular waves. Almost similar patterns in the follicular growth characteristics, viz., beginning day, end day and duration (days) of first dominant follicle were observed between pregnant and non-bred cyclic cows (0.75±0.29 vs 0.50±0.29, 9.25±0.48 vs 8.25±0.25 and 8.50±0.48 vs 7.75±0.48). However, the linear growth rate (mm/day) of first dominant follicle was significantly lower (P<0.05) in pregnant as compared to non-bred cyclic cows (0.93±0.07 vs 1.21±0.12). The difference was also significant (P<0.01) in the beginning day (15.75±0.25 vs 14.00±0.41) and the maximum diameter of first dominant follicle (11.72±0.22 vs 14.40±0.24 mm) between above two groups. Similarly, the duration (days) of regression phase and linear regression rate (mm/day) of first dominant follicle (4.75±0.65 vs 7.00±0.40 and -1.07±0.07 vs -1.39 vs 0.09) and the maximum diameter of second dominant follicle (11.70±0.22 vs 16.40±1.04 mm) were significantly (P<0.01) lower in pregnant as compared to normal cyclic cows. In all, 60 spontaneous (n=24) or induced cyclic (n=36) cows were inseminated and those did not return to estrus by day 21 after AI were further scanned four times on day 23, 28, 35 and 42 using trans-rectal linear array transducer of 6.5 MHz frequency to detect early pregnancy and embryonic mortality, if any. The sensitivity of USG was cent per cent on all the 4 days, but the specificity was lower on day 23 and 28 (68.00 % each) as compared to day 35 (92.00 %) and 42 (100%). On day 23 and 28, 8 animals were incorrectly diagnosed pregnant, while on day 35, two and zero animals were wrongly diagnosed pregnant. However, the progesterone assay on day 21 post-AI revealed 9 animals being diagnosed incorrectly pregnant. The sensitivity and negative predictive values were cent per cent on all days by both the methods, but specificity and positive predictive values were lower for pregnancy diagnosis using progesterone assay (64.00 % and 79.55 %) as compared to ultrasound scanning results on all 4 days (day 23 & 28, 68.00 to 81.40 %; day 35, 92.00 - 94.59 % and day 42, 100 %). Similarly, the accuracy was relatively higher with ultrasound scanning than the progesterone assay (100 vs 86.44 %). Based on plasma progesterone profile, 35 cows were correctly diagnosed as pregnant (P4, 6.48±0.38 ng/ml) and 16 cows as non-pregnant (P4, 0.45±0.13 ng/ml). However, 9 animals were incorrectly diagnosed as pregnant (P4, 4.14±0.12 ng/ml) and no animal was incorrectly diagnosed as non-pregnant as compared to the results of pregnancy diagnosis on day 60 by rectal palpation. Out of 9 cows, which were incorrectly diagnosed pregnant on the basis of plasma P4 profile on day 21 post-AI, 6 were found pregnant on day 23 and 28, but only three were found pregnant on day 35 by ultrasonography indicating early embryonic mortality in three animals (3/35; 8.57%) between day 28 and 35, The technique of ultrasound scanning facilitated the diagnosis of all non-pregnant animals as early as on day 23 post-service. The results indicated that day 35-42 is the earliest possible time when pregnancy diagnosis should be attempted using ultrasound for maximum accuracy and specificity. The conception rates of 12 subfertile cows, each subjected to CIDR, Ovsynch and Mid-cycle PGF2a treatment protocols were 41.66, 41.66 and 33.33 per cent, respectively, at induced estrus. The corresponding conception rates at second cycle post-treatment were 28,57, 42,85 and 25,00 per cent; and at third cycle 40,00, 50.00 and 33.33 per cent, with the overall conception rates of 3 cycles as 75.00, 83.33 and 66.66 per cent. In untreated cyclic control group, out of 24 animals (12 Gir and 12 Crossbreds) inseminated, the conception rates at first, second and third service and overall of 3 services were 20.83, 21.05, 26.66 and 54.16 per cent, respectively. The results obtained using all 3 treatment protocols were much better than that of untreated cyclic control animals. Gir cattle in fact responded better with CIDR, while Crossbreds showed better results with Ovsynch protocol, and the response with Mid-cycle PGF2a treatment was relatively poor and almost same in both the classes of animals. The follicular dynamics, CL size, plasma progesterone, estradiol-17p, total cholesterol and blood glucose profiles were studied in Mid-cycle PGF2a treated as well as CIDR and Ovsynch treated Gir and Crossbred cows from the day of initiation of treatment until day of induced estrus/FTAI. The pooled mean CL size in cows as monitored by transrectal ultrasonography at 0, 24, 48 and 72 (estrus/AI) hrs of PG treatment was found to be 14.02±0.46, 12.68±0.49, 10.26±0.62 and 7.70±1.16 mm, respectively, and that of follicle 4.42±0.22, 5,37±0.35, 8.52±0.59, 12.94±0.74 mm. The corresponding plasma progesterone concentrations were 5.22±0.43, 3.10±0.36, 1.14±0.32 and 0.48±0.31 ng/ml, respectively, and those of estradiol-17p 19.42±2.07, 24.33±2.33, 41.25±4.40, 51.41±2.02 pg/ml. The values of CL size and plasma P4 were significantly (P<0.01) higher and those of follicle size and E2 lower on the day of PG treatment indicating the presence of mature functional CL on the ovary. The CL size reduced and plasma progesterone concentration dropped significantly with parallel increase in follicle size and plasma E2 within 48-hrs of PG treatment. The values of CL size and plasma P4 were the lowest or at basal level and those of follicle and E2 at peak on the day of induced estrus/AI, around 72-hrs posttreatment. No significant variation was noted in any of the traits between breeds or at any of the intervals studied within the breed, except at 72-hrs of PG treatment wherein the values of CL size and plasma P4 were significantly (P<0.05) higher in crossbreds as compared to Gir, suggesting breed difference in the action of PG and duration of induced luteolysis. The conceiving and non-conceiving cows revealed identical pattern and values of CL and follicle size as well as plasma P4 and E2 concentrations till 48-hrs of mid-cycle PG injection, but by 72-hrs of treatment the drop in CL size and plasma P4 were drastic and significant over 48-hrs values in conceiving cows than the non-conceiving cows. The pooled mean concentration of blood glucose recorded at 0, 24, 48, 72 hrs after PG treatment was 56.78±2.25, 57.34±2.00, 58,76±2.06, 60.78±1,61 mg/dl, respectively. The corresponding plasma total cholesterol concentrations were 166.84±3.73, 166.36± 2.33, 173.42±2.65, 169.19±3.89 mg/dl, respectively. The values of none of these traits varied significant between different intervals post-PG-treatment, and the values were more or less similar in both the breeds, and no significant variation was noted in blood glucose or plasma cholesterol profile at any of the intervals studied between breeds. The follicular dynamics, CL size, plasma progesterone, estradiol-17p, cholesterol and blood glucose profiles were also studied in Gir and Crossbred cows on day 0 (Wg CIDR insertion), 2, 4, 6, 7 (CIDR removal & PG injection), 8 and 9 (GnRH injection) of CIDR (1.38 g hydroxyl-progesterone in silastic coil) treatment, and on day 10 (induced estrus/FTAI). The pooled mean CL size in cows on these was found to be 11.09±0.71, 10.97±0.69, 10.80±0.50, 10.60±0.43, 10.63±0.49, 8.25±0.18, 5.65±0.38 and 5.21±0.67 mm, respectively and that of follicle size 7.70±0.59, 7.23±0.36, 8.68±0.71, 8.63±0.63, 9.02±0.67, 10.50±0.61 12.48±0.72, 7.50±1.00 mm, respectively. The corresponding plasma P4 concentrations were 4,55±0.34, 5.54±0.49, 5.12±0.31, 4.73±0.24, 4.66±0.36, 1.78±0.21, 0.67±0.12, 0.13±0.02 ng/ml, respectively, and those of estradiol-17p 14.16± 1.94, 25.50±2.40, 29.16±2.94, 37.16±3.39, 30.75±1.92, 40.75±2.75, 49.66±4.03, 33.50 ±7.02 pg/ml. The values of CL size and plasma P4 were significantly (P<0.01) higher and follicle size and E2 lower on the day of CIDR insertion indicating that the animals were cyclic with presence of mature functional CL on the ovary when the treatment was initiated. The CL/ follicle size and plasma progesterone/estradiol concentrations were maintained for 7 days until CIDR was removed and PG was injected i/m, which resulted in luteolysis with sudden and significant drop in CL size and plasma progesterone within 24- hrs with further drop to basal level with concurrent rise in follicle size and plasma E2 levels by next 48-hrs, i.e. the day of induced estrus/FTAI due to withdrawal of negative feedback effect of plasma P4 on the pituitary and hypothalamus, thus inducing ovulatory estrus within 72-hrs. No significant variation was noted in any of these traits at any of the intervals studied, between or within Gir and Crossbred cows. The values of blood glucose and cholesterol were more or less similar in both the breeds, as were found in Mid-cycle PG treated group, and no significant variation was noted at any of the intervals post-CIDR treatment between breeds or within breed. Although the blood glucose levels were apparently higher and cholesterol lower in Gir cows as compared to Crossbreds during the CIDR treatment phase until induced estrus. The effect of Ovsynch treatment on the follicular dynamics, CL size, plasma progesterone, estradiol-17p, total cholesterol and blood glucose profiles studied in infertile cyclic Gir and Crossbred breed cows on the same days as with CIDR protocol was almost similar with identical pattern and values to those of CIDR treatment group. All these parameters were also studied in normal cyclic control post-pubertal heifers (6) and postpartum cows (6) of Gir and Crossbred breeds each at weekly interval, together with those cows induced to estrus and inseminated at fixed time under three synchronization protocols, from day 0 (estrus/AI) to day 21 post-AI and then on day 23, 28, 35 and 42 in non-return cases. One cows in each synchronization treatment underwent embryonic mortality between day 28 and 35 post-AI as confirmed by transrectal USG. The pooled mean CL size in 12 heifers as monitored by ultrasonography on day 0 (estrus/AI), 7, 14, 21, 23, 28, 35 and 42 post-AI was found to be 4.72±0.33, 12.30±0.55, 12.72±0.62, 8.74±1.39, 9.47±1.17, 11.83±0.87, 14.44±0.61 and 14.50±0.67 mm, respectively, and that . of follicle size 12.70±0.51, 5.86±0.52, 5.23±0.45, 9.21±0.96, 7.4U0.91, 6.14±0.48, 4.80±0.51 and 4.94±0.30 mm, respectively. The corresponding plasma progesterone concentrations were 0.49±0.10, 3.16±0.21, 5.18±0.41, 3.01±0.99, 3.50±0.96, 5.66±0.73, 8.54±0.21 and 8.96±0.15 ng/ml, respectively, and those of estradiol-17p were 56.08±2.98, 29.58±2.52, 20.25±2.43, 38.08±5.70, 22.66±4.97, 21.58±2.84, 15.80±2.53 and 22.40±3.29 pg/ml, respectively. Very similar values and trend of observations were recorded for CL and follicular size as well as plasma progesterone and estradiol-17p profile in postpartum cows also from the day of estrus/breeding till day 42 post-AI. The values of CL size and plasma P4 were the lowest or at basal level on the day of estrus/AI, increased highly significantly (P < 0.01) by day 7 and 14, dropped down around day 21-23 and again rose significantly at day 35 and 42 post-AI, with concurrent inverse trend in follicle size and plasma E2 profile. These trends were associated with establishment of pregnancy and return of rest of the animals to next cycle around day 21- 23. No significant variation was noted in CL or follicular size and plasma progesterone or estradiol-17P profile at any of the intervals studied and the trend was the same in both the Gir and Crossbred heifers as well as cows. Further, the conceiving and non-conceiving animals of Gir and Crossbred breed (irrespective of parity) revealed identical pattern and values of CL/follicle size and plasma P4, E2 concentrations till day 14 post-AI, and there was significant drop in CL size as well as progesterone profile in non-pregnant animals with increase in follicle size and plasma E2 profile due to luteolysis, folliculogenesis and res-establishment of next cycle around day 21-23; and persistence of CL and continuance of progesterone production in conceived ones. The pooled mean concentration of blood glucose in heifers on day 0 (estrus/AI), 7, 14, 21, 23, 28, 35 and 42 post-AI was found to be 64.35±3.21, 68.71±2.54, 66.41±2.63, 68.67±2.10, 66.91±2.08, 64.43±2.30, 60.96±1.69 and 61.18±1.58 mg/dl, respectively. The corresponding cholesterol levels were 172.73±5.27, 175.91±3.69, 181.01±1.85, 176.90± 3,33, 173.90±2.65, 174.81±2.19, 170.50±2.60 and 169.79±1.43 mg/dl, respectively. Very similar values and trend of observations were recorded for blood glucose and plasma total cholesterol profile in postpartum cows from the day of estrus/breeding till day 42 post-AI. The values of none of these traits varied significantly between intervals post-estrus/AI, No significant variation was noted between Gir and Crossbred heifers as well as cows in blood glucose or plasma cholesterol profile at any of the intervals studied and the trend was the same. Further, the conceiving and non-conceiving animals of Gir and Crossbred breed (irrespective of parity) revealed identical pattern and values of blood glucose and plasma cholesterol concentrations till day 42 post-AI. Very similar trend and values of follicular dynamics, CL size, plasma P4, E2, total cholesterol and blood glucose were also found in all three groups of estrus synchronized cows of Mid-cycle PG, CIDR and Ovsynch protocols (12 each) at weekly interval from day 0 (induces estrus/FTAI) to day 21 post-AI and then on day 23, 28, 35 and 42 in nonreturn cases, hence the data are not repeated again for these groups. It is concluded that the ultrasound scanning is a very usefiil technique to study follicular dynamics as well as to detect early pregnancy and embryonic mortality in bovines. The Gir and Crossbred cows evince either 2- or 3-follicular waves per cycle, but not the single wave cycle. Ultrasonographic technique is helpful in detection of nonpregnancy as early as day 23 post-service with cent percent negative predictive value. There is regular growth and development of dominant follicles during early stages of pregnancy as a safe guard in the event of early embryonic mortality to evince next cycle in time. Plasma progesterone profile on day 21 post-breeding is also a very good index for detection of pregnancy with 79.55 per cent positive predictive value and cent per cent negative predictive value. The CL diameter and plasma P4 values as well as follicle size and E2 values were positively correlated. The results in general did not reveal any specific role of glucose or cholesterol in reproductive processes. Of the different synchronized treatment protocols, the highest overall conception rate was achieved with Ovsynch (83.33%) followed by CIDR (75.00%) and Mid-cycle PGF2a (66.66%) treatment and the least in control group (54.16%), hence the Ovsynch and CIDR treatments can be recommended to the field veterinarians for improving the fertility of infertile cattle.ThesisItem Open 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).