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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 STUDIES ON SOME ASPECTS OF INFERTILITY IN JERSEY COWS USED EXTENSIVELY IN EMBRYO TRANSFER TECHNOLOGY.(AAU, Anand, 2004) SHAH, RAKHIBEN MADANBHAI; PATEL, D. M.The present investigation on "Studies on some aspects of infertility in Jersey cows used extensively in Embryo Transfer Technology" was undertaken on Jersey animals (n=10) at the Department of Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anand Agricultural University, Anand Campus Anand. The study was carried out during the months of May 2003 to September 2003 The experimental animals were located at Reproductive Biology Research Unit, Veterinary College, Anand. All the Jersey cows were used in research related to non-surgical embryo transfer and were super-ovulated and flushed number of times under the strict Veterinary care. Also, excellent quality embryos after evaluation were transferred into some these animals, which served as recipients. Preliminary examination was made to know the reproductive status of the animals. Animals were divided in two groups. In first group normal estrus cycle of animals before breeding were observed. In the second estrous cycle of the first group all the animals were given intrauterine antibiotic, ampicilin and cloxacilin preparation (Ampoxin 2 gm containing ampicilin 1000 mg. and cloxacilin 1000 mg). In the second group animals were treated with GnRH (Receptal, 5 ml, I/M) and were bred. Blood collection was made at weekly interval and the pregnancy diagnosis was done on day 45 post breeding. The blood serum levels of glucose, calcium, phosphorus, calcium: phosphorus ratio, iron, copper, cobalt, zinc, manganese were lower in these animals. Repeated rectal examination of these cows revealed the cause of infertility to be cystic ovarian degeneration (two animals), ovarobursal adhesion (one animal), and early embryonic mortality (two animals). Tubal insufflation method of testing fallopian tube patency revealed bilateral complete tubal blockage in two animals and partial tubal blockage in three animals. These findings clearly demonstrated that superovulation in embryo transfer technology lowers the fertility in cows and repeated super ovulation lead to sterility in cows.ThesisItem Open Access STUDIES ON PHYSICO-BIOCHEMICAL ATTRIBUTES AND PRESERVABILITY (AT 5°C AND -196°C) OF SEMEN OF TRIPLEBRED (HF X JERSEY X KANKREJ) BULLS(AAU, Anand, 2006) JAGDISHCHANDRA, RAVAL RUPESHKUMAR; DHAMI, A. J.This study was undertaken in 2 phases on semen of 4 mature triplebred bulls at Livestock Research Station, AAU, Anand. The study covered evaluation of seminal characteristics, seminal plasma biochemical profiles, acrosomal morphology, and effect of extender-additives, viz. cysteine HCl (0.1 %) and EDTA (0.1 %) in Tris fructose yolk glycerol (TFYG) diluent on cryo-freezing as well as refrigeration preservation (5°C till 48-hr) of semen in terms of motility, viability, morphology and acrosomal integrity of spermatozoa. In phase-I, physico-biochemical attributes and their interrelationships were studied, while in phase-II, the effect of additives was studied using split-sample technique (1:10 dilution) on 36 ejaculates for cryo-freezing and refrigeration storage. Sperm motility was examined at 24 hourly intervals till 96- hr in refrigerated semen. The data on various traits of cryopreserved and refrigerated semen were analysed using 3-factors' Factorial CRD. The ejaculate, volume, mass activity (score 0-5), individual sperm motility, sperm concentration, live sperm and abnormal sperm recorded in triplebred bulls' semen during phase-I (winter) were 3.88 ± 0.16 ml, 3.73 ± 0.06, 999.06 ± 16.14 million/ml, 84.00 ± 1.02 %, 86.28 ± 0.97 % and 8.28 ± 0.44 %, respectively. The average seminal plasma content of GOT, GPT, AKP, total protein, total cholesterol, calcium, inorganic phosphorus and magnesium was 189.11 ± 6.29 lU/L, 82.53 ± 4.29 lU/L, 718.94 ± 24.27 lU/L, 6.95 ± 0.34 g/dl, 42.77 ± 2.87 mg/dl, 21.26 ± 0.56 mg/dl, 44.16 ± 1.30 mg/dl and 2.89 ± 0.06 mEq/L, respectively. The bulls varied significantly (P < 0.05) in their ejaculate volume, sperm concentration, abnormal sperm per cent, seminal plasma total protein, total cholesterol, GPT, calcium and magnesium levels. Semen quality of all 4 triplebred bulls was of optimum type and its' biochemical profile was within normal physiological limit. Moreover, the ejaculate volume had significant positive correlation (P < 0.01) with abnormal spermatozoa (r = 0.41); mass activity with the initial motility (r = 0.81), abnormal sperm (r = -0.46) and plasma total protein (r = 0.50); live sperm percentage with initial motility (r = 0.54), abnormal sperm (r = -0.60) and plasma cholesterol (r = 0.36); initial motility with abnormal sperm (r = -0.59) and plasma GPT (r = 0.34) and sperm concentration with seminal plasma GPT, total protein and magnesium levels (r = -0.43, -0.46, -0.39). Seminal plasma GOT activity was significantly (P < 0.01) correlated with plasma GPT, total protein, total cholesterol and magnesium concentrations (r = 0.46, 0.39, 0.36, 0.39, resp), while GPT activity had significant correlations only with plasma protein and magnesium contents (r = 0.64, 0.60), and magnesium with total protein and calcium levels (r = 0.65, 0.39). Plasma AKP and inorganic phosphorus levels did not show significant correlations with any of the physico-biochemical attributes studied. The mean percentages of motile, live and abnormal sperms and intact acrosome observed in freshly extended semen in standard TFYG diluent were 77.92 ± 0.73, 88.89 ± 0.57, 7.44 ± 0.28 and 92.33 ± 0.33, respectively. There was insignificant change in most of these values at prefreeze level, but the post-thaw values differed highly significantly (P < 0.01) from the initial as well as prefreeze values, and so also was the case for the effect of 24-hr and 48-hr of refrigeration storage. The relative % decline in motile and live sperms and intact acrosome at postthaw stage over the initial values was 40.46, 35.63 and 11.82, respectively, while the incidence of abnormal sperm and damaged acrosome increased relatively by 87.10 and 142.24 % at post-thaw stage over the initial values. The values of segment-wise sperm abnormalities and acrosome abnormalities were found to be more than double at post-thaw stage over the initial values. The 48-hr refrigeration storage of extended semen caused significant change in these parameters, but the magnitude of change was relatively small (12 to 18%). Statistically, that there were significant (P < 0.01) differences in percentages of motile, live and abnormal sperms and intact/damaged acrosomes between bulls (n=4), between stages (n=3, initial, prefreeze & post-thaw or 0, 24 & 48 hr) and between additives (n=3, EDTA, cysteine & control) both in cryopreservation and refrigeration storage of semen. Among all the two- and three-way interactions of bulls, stages and additives studied, only bull x stage and/or bull x additive interaction was found significant (P < 0.05) for some of these traits during cryo-freezing and/or refrigeration preservation. The overall pooled mean values of progressively motile sperms (irrespective of diluent additives) at initial, post-thaw and 48-hr post-refrigeration of semen were 81.07 ± 0.48, 50.60 ± 0.77 and 72.41 ± 0.61 %, respectively. The corresponding values for live sperm were 88.89 ± 0.32, 58.63 ± 0.63 and 73.22 ± 0.37 %; abnormal sperm 7.44 ± 0.16, 13.57 ± 0.20 and 11.02 ± 0.15 %; intact acrosome 92.33 ± 0.19, 83.65 ± 0.27 and 86.82 ± 0.21 %, and damaged acrosome 7.67 ± .19, 16.30 ± 0.28 and 13.18 ± 0.21 %, respectively. The sperm motility sustained in the extended semen till 96-hr of refrigeration was 63.47 ± 0.69 %, indicated acceptable preservability of crossbred bulls' semen at 5°C for 3-4 days. The mean percentages of progressively motile spermatozoa at initial, postthaw and 48-hr of refrigeration of semen in control Tris diluent were 77.92 ± 0.73, 46.39 ± 1.27 and 70.00 ± 0.91, respectively. The corresponding values for the diluent containing EDTA were 83.20 ± 0.67, 53.19 ± 1.26 and 74.31 ± 0.96, and that containing cysteine were 82.08 ± 0.85, 52.22 ± 1.20 and 72.92 ± 1.17, respectively. The corresponding values for live sperm per cent in control Tris diluent were 88.89 ± 0.57, 57.22 ± 1.09 and 72.28 ± 0.62, respectively; in EDTA containing diluent 88.89 ± 0.57, 61.50 ± 0.76 and 74.50 ± 0.68, and that in cysteine containing diluent 88.89 ± 0.57, 57.17 ± 1.25 and 72.89 ± 0.57, respectively. The mean percentages of sperms with intact acrosome at initial, post-thaw and 48-hr of refrigeration of semen in plain Tris diluent were 92.33 ± 0.33, 81.42 ± 0.44 and 85.31 ± 0.26, respectively. The corresponding values for the diluent containing EDTA were 92.33 ± 0.33, 85.08 ± 0.39 and 88.08 ± 0.27, and that containing cysteine were 92.33 ± 0.33, 84.44 ± 0.35 and 87.08 ± 0.39, respectively. The trend observed for the effect of freezing steps, storage intervals and additives was identical in the semen of all 4 individual bulls for motile and live sperm and intact acrosome. In general, the values of all three traits were significantly higher at all stages of cryo-freezing and refrigeration preservation of semen in the presence of EDTA and cysteine hydrochloride (EDTA being superior than cysteine) as compared to control Tris diluent. The mean percentages of total sperm abnormalities at initial, post-thaw and 48-hr of refrigeration of semen in control Tris diluent were 7.44 ± 0.28, 13.92 ± 0.26 and 11.42 ± 0.23, respectively. The corresponding values for the diluent containing EDTA were 7.44 ± 0.28, 13.03 ± 0.32 and 10.53 ± 0.28, and that containing cysteine were 7.44 ± 0.28, 13.78 ± 0.41 and 11.11 ± 0.23, respectively. The overall mean percentages of sperms with head, midpiece and tail abnormalities recorded initially in fresh semen of triplebred bulls were 2.33 ± 0.06, 1.37 ± 0.06 and 3.78 ± 0.12, respectively. The corresponding values after freezing thawing of semen were 4.35 ± 0.13, 2.78 ± 0.09, 6.45 ± .018, respectively, and after 48-h of refrigeration storage 3.60 ± 0.11, 2.07 ± 0.09, 4.61 ± 0.13 per cent, respectively. The differences due to freezing stages and storage intervals were significant (P < 0.01) for all the three traits. However, there was no significant effect of diluent-additives on any of these segmental defects in either of the protocols, except tail defects. The mean percentages of sperms with damaged acrosome at initial, post-thaw and 48-hr of refrigeration of semen in control Tris diluent were 7.67 ± 0.33, 18.42 ± 0.50 and 14.69 ± 0.26, respectively. The corresponding values for the diluent containing EDTA were 7.67 ± 0.33, 14.92 ± 0.39 and 11.92 ± 0.27, and that containing cysteine were 7.67 ± 0.33, 15.56 ± 0.35 and 12.92 ± 0.39, respectively. The mean percentages of sperms with swollen, ruffled, denuded and detached acrosome recorded initially in fresh semen were 2.25 ± 0.06, 2.03 ± 0.08, 2.00 ± 0.09 and 2.55 ± 0.10, respectively. The corresponding values at post-thaw stage were 3.69 ± 0.12, 3.79 ± 0.13, 3.63 ± .012 and 5.32 ± 0.16, respectively. The values after 48-h of refrigeration were 3.05 ± 0.10, 4.47 ± 0.18, 2.27 ± 0.11 and 3.28 ± 0.13 per cent, respectively. All types of acrosomal defects were significantly lower (P < 0.01) in presence of EDTA and cysteine than the control diluent, and increased with freezing or storage time. Highly significant (P < 0.01) interrelationships observed for the percentages of motile, live and abnormal sperms and intact/damaged acrosome in fresh, post-thawed and refrigerated semen of triplebred bulls (r = ± 0.19 to 0.88) proved that the assessment of initial motility can be taken as a fairly good indicator of semen quality after freezing and/or refrigeration in terms of above traits.ThesisItem Open Access STUDIES ON CANINE PYOMETRA WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO CLINICALDIAGNOSIS, HAEMATO-BIOCHEMICAL PROFILE AND UTERINE PATHOLOGY(AAU, Anand, 2005) DABHI, DINESHKUMAR M.; DHAMI, A. J.This investigation was taken up on 14 pyometric (10 open; 4 closed pyometra) and 10 normal bitches presented for ovario-hysterectomy at the College Clinic including screening of past two years records of all canine clinical cases attended to know the incidence of various reproductive disorders particularly pyometra. Other objectives were to evaluate clinical and radiographic diagnostic modalities, haematological, blood biochemical and sex steroid profile, bacterial isolates of uterine content and their antibiogram, and surgical therapy by ovariohysterectomy in cases of canine pyometra, and to study the gross and histopathological structures in the genital organs of pyometric and normal bitches. Of the total 5024 clinical cases attended in canines during the year 2003-05, 224 (4.46 %) and 28 (0.56 %) were of gynaecological and andrological nature, respectively. The highest incidence was of pyometra (27.23 %), followed by mammary tumours (16.52 %), pro-oestrus (12.50 %), pregnancy diagnosis (11.61 %), spaying (11.61 %), CTVG (7.14 %), misalliance (3.12 %) and others (10.26 %). Among the andrological cases, the highest incidence was of scrotal dermatitis (32.14 %), followed by castration (25.00 %), venereal granulomas (14.28 %), orchitis (10.71 %), prostatic hyperplasia (10.71 %) and balano-posthitis (7.14 %). The breed most prone to gynaecological disorders was Pomeranian (42.85 %). The highest occurrence of gynaecological cases was found in young bitches 0-5 years old (49.11%). Of the 14 pyometric bitches, incidence of pyometra was higher in 9-12 years age group (42.85 %), followed by 5-8 years (28.57 %) and in < 4 years and >13 years age groups (14.28 % each). The age range of affected bitches was 2.5 years to 13 years with a mean of 8.36 ± 0.82 years. The age of bitches presented for spaying ranged from 1 to 6 years with a mean of 3.60 ± 0.46 years. Further, the highest incidence of pyometra was observed in Pomeranian breed (8 cases) and nulliparous bitches (64.29 %). Oestrous cycle was irregular in 42.86 and 30.00 per cent of pyometric and normal bitches. The general condition of bitches with closed pyometra was poor, whereas it was fair in cases of open pyometra. The distension of abdomen was apparent in 57.14 per cent cases and on palpation, uterus was also found distended. Inappetance, fever and vomition was observed in 78.57, 64.28 and 28.57 per cent of pyometric bitches, while toxaemia, polyuria and polydipsia was present in 50.00, 42.86 and 57.14 per cent of pyometric bitches, respectively. Vaginal discharge sticking to the hair of tail and perineum was present in all cases of open pyometra and it's colour varied from gray to chocolate with foul odour. Abdominal palpation was clear in 5 cases and unclear in 9 cases. Radiography done in 5 selected cases of pyometra revealed clear picture in 3 and unclear in 2 cases. A significantly lower mean haemoglobin (Hb) and total erythrocyte count (TEC) was found in pyometric bitches (11.21 ± 0.91 g % and 5.86 ± 0.45 million/cmm) than in healthy bitches (14.26 ± 0.49 g % and 7.92 ± 0.17 million/cmm). The mean PCV value was significantly (P < 0.01) higher (40.34 ± 1.87 vs 34.35 ± 2.70 %) and that of ESR lower (2.60 ± 0.31 vs 9.53 ± 1.33 mm) in healthy bitches as compared to pyometric ones. There was slight improvement in the Hb, TEC and ESR post-operatively, but not in PCV, in pyometric bitches. Pyometric bitches showed a marked leukocytosis as compared to healthy ones (26.61 ± 3.13 vs 14.10 ± 0.82 thousand/cmm). Neutrophil count was significantly (P < 0.01) higher (74.30 ± 1.75 vs 57.80 ± 0.76 %) and lymphocyte lower (22.07 ± 1.59 vs 37.70 ± 0.58 %) in pyometric bitches than the normal ones. The levels of both serum urea and creatinine were three times higher (P < 0.01) in pyometric bitches than the normal ones (54.79 ± 6.12 vs 16.60 ± 1.25 and 2.67 ± 0.34 vs 0.84 ± 0.08 mg/dl, respectively). Serum cholesterol concentration observed in pyometric bitches was significantly greater than that in normal bitches (263.86 ±21.54 vs 190.70 ± 18.79 mg/dl). Moreover, the levels of all three constituents, particularly serum urea and creatinine, declined in all cases of pyometra following ovario-hysterectomy. Serum total protein concentration was significantly (P < 0.01) higher in pyometric bitches than the healthy ones (7.75 ±0.51 vs 5.71 ±0.13 g/dl), but were identical for close and open pyometra. Moreover, the serum albumin concentration of pyometric bitches was significantly (P < 0.01) lower (2.27 ± 0.20 vs 3.17 ± 0.21 g/dl) and globulin higher (5.48 ± 0.49 vs 2.54 ± 0.25 g/dl) than that in healthy bitches, thus drastically reducing the albumin-globulin ratio (0.47 ± 0.06 vs 1.42 ± 0.21) in pyometric bitches. The mean activities of serum ASAT and ALAT were markedly increased in bitches affected with pyometra (69.43 ± 3.98 and 77.86 ± 7.70 IU/1) as compared to those in normal bitches (33.60 ± 2.85 and 30.80 ± 1.39 IU/1). Serum ALP activity was also found markedly elevated (P < 0.01) in pyometric bitches than the normal ones (81.14 ± 7.93 vs 40.40 ± 3.87 ICAU %), and the levels were insignificantly higher in cases of closed pyometra than the open ones but not the ASAT or ALAT, and the levels of all 3- dropped a little following surgery in affected animals. Serum progesterone profile was three times elevated (9.42 ± 2.20 vs 3.53 ± 1.07 ng/ml) and oestradio-17(3 was only one-half (364.14 ± 68.71 vs 615.00 ± 170.15 pg/ml ) in pyometric bitches than the normal ones. Moreover, the mean progesterone concentration was significantly higher in cases of closed pyometra than the open ones (18.90 ± 3.41 vs 5.63 ± 1.83 ng/ml), but not the oestradio-17p, and it's levels declined significantly (P < 0.05) following ovario-hysterectomy in all animals. Uterine horns of bitches affected with pyometra ranged between 10 and 30 cm, with the identical mean lengths of right and left horns (16.62 ± 1.31 and 16.29 ± 1.48 cm). The mean weight of intact organs of pyometric bitches was 469.28 ± 143.73 gm and in healthy bitches 80.50 ± 24.79 gm. Endometrium of pyometric bitches was found to be smooth in most cases and thickened in 3 cases. In cases of open pyometra, uterine walls were found thickened as compared to closed pyometra. In few cases oedema, thickening, corrugation or velvety appearance with roughened endometrium were observed. In majority of the cases endometrial surface was necrosed, ulcerated, eroded with focal to diffuse thickened cystic areas due to endometrial hyperplasia. The quantity of uterine content ranged from 8 ml to 1900 ml with a mean of 223.43 ± 132.97 ml in pyometric bitches, being greater in closed pyometra (220-1900 ml). It's colour was blood mixed reddish brown (chocolate) to grayish white with watery to thick creamy consistency. Ovaries revealed corpora lutea, cysts and follicles in majority of pyometric bitches. Histopathological examination of uterine tissues from pyometric bitches revealed CEH and inflammatory reaction classical of CEHPC. Out of 14 pyometric cases. 13 (92.86 %) were found positive for different bacterial isolates. Of these, gram-positive cocci were observed in 9, gram-negative bacilli in 1 and mixed isolates in 3 cases. Whereas all samples of 10 healthy bitches were negative for any pathogen. Drug sensitivity pattern revealed norfloxacin the most effective antibiotic. No fungal growth _could be seen in any of the cases studied. Judiciously performed ovario-hysterectomy was found uneventful to grace life to the pyometric bitches.ThesisItem Open Access STUDIES ON SOME ASPECTS OF INFERTILITY IN JERSEY COWS USED EXTENSIVELY IN EMBRYO TRANSFER TECHNOLOGY(AAU, Anand, 2004) SHAH, RAKHI MADANBHAI; PATEL, D. M.The present investigation on “Studies on some aspects o f infertility in Jersey cows used extensively in Embryo Transfer Technology” was undertaken on Jersey animals (n=10) at the Department of Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College o f Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anand Agricultural University, Anand Campus Anand. The study was carried out during the months o f May 2003 to September 2003 The experimental animals were located at Reproductive Biology Research Unit, Veterinary College, Anand. All the Jersey cows were used in research related to non-surgical embryo transfer and were super-ovulated and flushed number of times under the strict Veterinary care. Also, excellent quality embryos after evaluation were transferred into some these animals, which served as recipients. Preliminary examination was made to know the reproductive status o f the animals. Animals were divided in two groups. In first group normal estrus cycle o f animals before breeding were observed. In the second estrous cycle of the first group all the animals were given intrauterine antibiotic, ampicilin and cloxacilin preparation (Ampoxin 2 gm containing ampicilin 1000 mg. and cloxacilin 1000 mg). In the second group animals were treated with GnRH (Receptal, 5 ml, I/M) and were bred. Blood collection was made at weekly interval and the pregnancy diagnosis was done on day 45 post breeding. The blood serum levels of glucose, calcium, phosphorus, calcium: phosphorus ratio, iron, copper, cobalt, zinc, manganese were lower in these animals. Repeated rectal examination of these cows revealed the cause of infertility to be cystic ovarian degeneration (two animals), ovarobursal adhesion (one animal), and early embryonic mortality (two animals). Tubal insufflation method of testing fallopian tube patency revealed bilateral complete tubal blockage in two animals and partial tubal blockage in three animals. These findings clearly demonstrated that superovulation in embryo transfer technology lowers the fertility in cows and repeated super ovulation lead to sterility in cows.ThesisItem Open Access MANAGEMENT OF REPEAT BREEDING HOLSTEIN FRIESIAN COWS THROUGH ULTRASONOGRAPHY BLOOD PROFILE AND HORMONAL THERAPY UNDER SUBTROPICAL CLIMATE(AAU, Anand, 2005) PATEL, JAGADISHKUMAR AMBALAL; KAVANI, F. S.The present study was carried out on 98 breedable Holstein Friesian cows of HF Project, IDC Unit, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, during the period from March to August 2004. Forty repeat breeding animals with more than three infertile cycles were divided at random in six groups with a view to study their follicular dynamics during oestrous cycle and to evaluate the relative efficacies of different hormonal therapies at breeding towards improving their reproductive efficiency together with the weekly profile of plasma progesterone and various biochemical and macro-micro minerals from the day of treatment up to 7 weeks post-treatment / post-insemination. Twenty freshly inseminated cows (normal as well as repeat breeders) were scanned trans-rectally on day 23, 26 and 29 for detection of early pregnancy and embryonic mortality by ultrasonography, along with P4 profile on day 21 to test the accuracy and reliability of two techniques of pregnancy diagnosis. Moreover, Six culled chronic repeat breeding cows were also examined for histopathological lesions of their endometrial biopsies. The incidence of both anoestrus and repeat breeding condition in the herd was observed to be higher in adult cows than the heifers (29.73 vs 25.00 % and 43.24 vs 33.33 %) with the overall incidence of 28.57 and 40.82 %, respectively. The trans-rectal ultrasound scanning of ovaries of 6 repeat breeding cows made daily using linear array transducer of 5.0 MHz frequency over one full oestrous cycle revealed the presence of two patterns of ovarian follicular development per cycle, viz. 2-waves (66.66%, n=4) or 3-waves (33.33%, n=2). In two-wave cycle, the first and second waves began at day 0.75 ± 0.25 and 13.75 ± 0.48, respectively. In three-wave cycle, the first, second and third wave began at day 0.50 ± 0.50, 9.00 ± 0.00 and 16.50 ± 0.50, respectively. The second wave appeared earlier in the oestrous cycle with 3-wave than with 2-wave (9.00 ± 0.00 vs 13.75 ± 0.48, P < 0.01). The duration of the growth and static phases as well as regression phase of the first dominant follicle did not differ between 2- and 3-wave cycles. The maximum diameter of both first dominant follicle and ovulatory follicle (14.68 ± 0.19 vs 14.30 ± 0.50 mm, 17.53 ± 0.45 vs 16.25 ± 0.64 mm) was identical in 2- and 3-wave cycles. In 2-wave cycle the maximum diameter of ovulatory follicle was significantly larger (P < 0.01) than the first dominant follicle. However, no statistical differences were observed between the maximum diameters of three dominant follicles for 3-wave cycles. The 2- and 3-wave cycles differed with respect to the mean length of intervals between two oestruses (21.25 ± 0.25 vs 23.00 ± 0.00, (P < 0.01) and between two ovulations (22.33 ± 0.33 vs 24.00 ± 0.00, P < 0.01). The follicular linear growth rate (mm/day) was lower (P < 0.01) in ovulatory follicle than in first dominant follicle in 2-wave (1.78 ± 0.05 vs 1.35 ± 0.03) and 3- wave cycle (1.79 ± 0.06 vs 1.47 ± 0.02). The linear growth rate of ovulatory follicles differed between 2- and 3-wave cycles (1.35 ± 0.03 vs 1.47 ± 0.02 mm/day, P < 0.05). In 2-wave cycle there was no relationship between the development of dominant follicle and presence of CL in either of the ovaries. While in 3-wave cycle, first dominant follicle and ovulatory follicle developed on ovary opposite of CL. No statistical difference was found in the mean number of follicles recruited per wave in 2- and 3-wave cycles. There was positive correlation between CL diameter and P4 value (r = 0.79). The average plasma P4 values were higher (P < 0.01) in 3- wave than 2-wave cycle on all days. The sensitivity and negative predictive value were 100 % on all 3 days of trans-rectal ultrasound scanning for early pregnancy diagnosis. However, the specificity, positive predictive value and accuracy were highest on 29th day (87.50 %, 92.33 % and 95.00 %, respectively). The mean length of embryonic vesicle day 23, 26 and 29 was 18.47 ± 0.47, 20.33 ± 0.47 and 27.84 ± 0.20 mm, respectively. The negative predictive value was 100 % for early pregnancy diagnosis By plasma P4 profile (on day 21), but the positive predictive value was only 75 %, and diagnostic accuracy 80.00 %. Embryonic mortality was detected in 2 of 20 (10 %) cows by ultrasound between days 23 and 29 post-service. The conception rates obtained in repeat breeding HF cows following hormonal treatment at the time of insemination with GnRH (Receptal, 0.02 mg, i/m), LH (Chorulon, 1500 lU, i/m) and Progesterone (Proluton depot, 500 mg i/m) (6 animals each) were 66.66, 83.33 and 50.00 %, respectively, with an overall mean of 66.66 %(12/18 cows). This was significantly higher (P < 0.01) than that (33.33 %, 2/6) obtained in control untreated repeat breeding cows. Out of 10 chronic repeat breeding cows (not conceived up to 3 services after previous treatment or of control group), 9 (90 %) came in oestrus with different intensity and duration when injected with PGF2α (Vetmate, 2 ml) on day 10 of cycle, and 3 (33.33 %) conceived at induced oestrus following insemination and GnRH (0.01 mg, i/m) treatment. The mean plasma progesterone value in LH treated cows was significantly (P < 0.05) higher as compared to control group (5.187 ± 0.520 vs 3.381 ± 0.408 ng/ml). The mean P4 levels in conceived and non-conceived groups were 5.679 ± 0.348 and 2.586 ± 0.230 ng/ml (P < 0.01). The P4 concentration was at the basal level on day '0' (oestrus) in both conceived and non-conceived groups (0.296 ± 0.051 and 0.321 ± 0.055 ng/ml) and increased highly significantly (P < 0.01) by 1 week postestrus/ post-insemination (4.782 ± 0.845 and 2.996 ± 0.474 ng/ml) reaching to the peak values of 7.382 ± 0.839 and 4.285 ± 0.636 ng/ml on 4th and 2nd week, respectively. The progesterone concentration in conceived group remained more or less at constant high level till 7th week post-insemination, while in non-conceiving cows it showed significant fluctuations suggestive of repeat oestruses. The overall mean values of plasma total protein, total cholesterol, triglycerides, calcium, inorganic phosphorus, Ca:P ratio, magnesium, zinc, iron, copper, cobalt and manganese were 9.64 ± 0.05 g/dl, 221.29 ± 0.70 mg/dl, 61.71 ± 0.63 mg/dl, 11.81 ± 0.08 mg/dl, 8.84 ± 0.06 mg/dl, 1.344 ± 0.011, 1.840 ± 0.031 on mEq/L, 1.548 ± 0.013 ppm, 2.130 ± 0.019 ppm, 0.772 ± 0.009 ppm, 0.496 ± 0.005 ppm and 0.092 ± 0.001 ppm, respectively. The values were significantly higher (P < 0.01) in conceived group as compared to non-conceived group for plasma triglycerides (63.19 ± 0.70 vs 60.45 ± 0.99 mg/dl), calcium (12.51 ±0.11 vs 11.53 ± 0.11 mg/dl), inorganic phosphorus (9.02 ± 0.08 vs 8.69 ± 0.07 mg/dl), zinc (1.590 ± 0.020 vs 1.513 ± 0.016 ppm), iron (2.261 ± 0.026 vs 2.019 ± 0.024 ppm), copper (0.829 ± 0.013 vs 0.725 ± 0.009 ppm), cobah (0.535 ± 0.006 vs 0.463 ± 0.006 ppm) and manganese (0.095 ± 0.002 vs 0.089 ± 0.002 ppm). However, the total cholesterol content was significantly higher in non-conceived than the conceived animals (223.79 ± 0.77 vs 218.34 ±1.15 mg/dl). Moreover, the mean concentrations of plasma triglycerides, calcium, zinc, iron and cobalt were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in all three treated (GnRH, LH, Proluton) groups as compared to untreated control repeat breeding cows. However, there was no remarkable effect of any of the 3 treatments or reproductive status on weekly profile of any of the biochemical and mineral constituents studied, except P4 profile. Endometrial biopsies examined from 6 chronic repeat breeding animals reveled chronic endometritis in 4 and subacute endometritis in 2 animals. The microscopic lesions of subacute endometritis were characterized by degeneration of glandular epithelium with inspissated secretions and cellular remnants in lumen and mononuclear cell infiltration, aggregation of lymphocytes in the endometrial stroma and mild to severe degeneration of stromal blood vessels. While in chronic endometritis, the lesions were extensive stromal fibrosis, extensive perivascular fibrosis, periglandular fibrosis and cystic dilatation of endometrial glands. No significant variation was observed pertaining to lesions in endometrial biopsies from left and right uterine horns and uterine body within the animal.ThesisItem Open Access MANAGEMENT OF REPRODUCTIVE PROBLEMS IN HOLSTEIN FRIESIAN COWS(AAU, Anand, 2004) LAKUM, PRASHANT D.; Panchal, M. T.The present study on "Management of Reproductive Problems in Holstein Friesian cows" was conducted in the Department of Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anand Agricultural University, Anand Campus, Anand during the period from November 2002 to May 2003. The experimental animals (n=27) were selected from the herd of Holstein Friesian cows of HF Project, IDC Unit, Anand Agricultural University, Anand with 1 to 4 parity and an average age of 72.52 + 4.65 months. The cows repeating beyond 6 months postpartum and anoestrus cows beyond 6 months postpartum were thoroughly screened for their genital health through gynaeco-clinical examinations. All the cows were studied for weekly blood plasma progesterone profiles in fertile and infertile oestrous cycles in treated cows suffering from repeat breeding (Post-insemination Antibiotics - PIA; n=ll / Luteinizing Hormone - hCG; n=5) and anoestrus (Gonadotrophins Releasing Hormone - GnRH; n=6 / Prostaglandin - PGF2a; n=5) conditions and normal fertile untreated cows (n=5), along with various biochemical parameters (glucose, total protein, total cholesterol, triglyceride) and macro-micro minerals in relation to fertility. The treated HF cows were also studied for the pregnancy results in terms of conception rate. Blood plasma samples were collected at weekly interval from the day of insemination and/or any treatment till next oestrus or conception or 50 days post-AI. The data, thus generated after progesterone assay and various biochemical estimations, were statistically analyzed. Cows were inseminated during oestrus and were followed for repeatation to oestrus and/or pregnancy diagnosis. The cervico-vaginal mucus (CVM) samples were subjected to the cultural isolation and antibiotic sensitivity test prior to the first AI. Among the CVM samples (n=27) screened for bacterial isolates, 14 (51.85%) samples had bacterial growth comprising 12 (85.71%) and 2 (14.29%o) samples single and mixed type of bacterial isolates, respectively. Among the bacterial isolates obtained from HF cows, gram positive bacilli (37.50%) and Staphylococcus spp. (31.25%)) were found to be predominant bacterial isolates followed by gram negative bacilli (12.50%)), Streptococcus spp. (12.50%)) and E. coli (6.25%)). The bacterial isolates were found to be sensitive to the tune of 93.75 and 87.50 per cent for gentamicin and chloremphenicol, respectively. The pregnancy rates were 54.55 (6/11), 60.00 (3/5), 66.67 (4/6) and 80.00 (4/5) per cent in infertile treated HF cows with post-insemination antibiotic, LH (hCG; 1500 lU, IM), GnRH (Receptal; Buserelin acetate; 0.02 mg; IM) and PGF2a (Lutalyse; Dinoprost tromethamine; 25 mg; IM), respectively, with an overall pregnancy rate of 62.96 (17/27) per cent as compared to 100.00 (5/5) per cent in untreated control cows. The overall services per conception were found to be 2.24 in treated HF cows. All the cows, treated with GnRH (n=6) and PGF2a (n=5) came in oestrus with an average durafion of onset of oestrus to be 21.00 ± 3.61 days (Range: 7-28 days) and 72.00 + 13.15 hours (Range: 48-120 hours), respectively. The mean plasma progesterone (ng/ml) level of treated conceived cows was minimum on day '0' (0.65 + 0.12) which increased significantly (P<0.05) on days 7, 14 and 21 post-insemination and subsequently it was maintained. Practically similar trend in the rise of the progesterone levels was observed in the control conceived cows. In treated non-conceived cows, significant (P<0.01) decrease in plasma progesterone level was observed on day '21' post-insemination. The trend of delayed rise in progesterone levels from day '0' to '7' and to '14' was observed in treated non-conceived cows as compared to treated conceived and control conceived cows. The mean plasma progesterone level on day '0' in normal fertile (control) cows (1.16 + 0.18 ng/ml) was found to be significantly higher (P<0.05) than those of treated conceived (0.65 + 0.12 ng/ml) and treated non-conceived cows (0.72 + 0.14 ng/ml). The mean levels of blood glucose, plasma total protein, total cholesterol, triglyceride, calcium, inorganic phosphorus, magnesium, copper, cobalt, zinc, iron and manganese in normal fertile cows and treated conceived cows suffering form repeat breeding and anoestrus conditions were found to be 51.19 + 1.70 and 48.77 + 0.71 mg/dl, 7.87 ±0.18 and 6.50 ± 0.07 g/dl, 133.78 ± 2.33 and 109.24 +1.83 mg per cent, 65.01 ± 2.43 and 108.56 ± 3.32 mg/dl, 13.89 ± 0.12 and 11.23 ± 0.13 mg/dl, 7.81 ± 0.20 and 6.76 ±0.13 mg/dl, 3.00 ± 0.06 and 3.45 +0.07 mEq/1, 0.66 ± 0.03 and 0.87 ± 0.02 ppm, 0.41 ± 0.02 and 0.34 ± 0.02 ppm, 1.30 ± 0.04 and 1.62 + 0.05 ppm, 5.89 ± 0.16 and 6.77 + 0.14 ppm, and 0.16 + 0.01 and 0.20 ± 0.03 ppm, respectively. The mean levels of blood glucose, plasma total protein, total cholesterol, calcium, inorganic phosphorus and cobalt were found to be higher in normal fertile cows as compared to treated (repeat breeder and anoestrus) conceived cows with the difference being highly significant between the groups except for blood glucose levels.ThesisItem Open Access STUDY ON EFFECT OF MULTIPLE OVULATION AND GnRH TREATMENT ON EMBRYO RECOVERY AND QUALITY IN PUREBRED AND CROSSBRED SAHIWALCATTLE WITH REFERENCE TO CIRCULATING OVARIAN STEROIDS(AAU, Anand, 2007) Siddiqui, M. U.; Panchal, Mahesh T.Study on effect of multiple ovulation and GnRH treatment on embryo recovery and quality in pure and crossbred Sahiwal cattle with reference to circulating ovarian steroids was conducted, at Sabarmati Ashram Gaushala (SAG), Bidaj in Kheda district of Gujarat state, on 24 animals (Group A: 6 purebred Sahiwal cows; Group B; 6 purebred Sahiwal heifers; Group C and D: 6 HF X Sahiwal crossbred cows each). For induction of multiple ovulations, FSH-P (Folltropin-V Bioniche, Canada), @ 200 mg per donor (8 equal doses of 1.25 ml each) was administered by i.m. route over four days at 12 hr interval, starting day 9 -11 post estrus. A single dose of PG was given 48 hr after the first FSH injection, to bring the donor in heat. The first Al was done 48 hr after PG injection, followed by two more Al at 12 hr intervals. A dose of 2.5 ml Receptal (GnRH) was given to the cows of Group D only at the time of Al. On day 7 of first Al, all the donors were flushed for embryo recovery by standard non-surgical technique. The recovered embryos were classified as viable and degenerated embryos and un-fertilized ova. Viable embryos were further graded as A (Excellent), B (Good) and C (Fair). The blood plasma samples were analysed for estrogen and progesterone concentrations using Radio Immuno Assay (RIA). Among the six purebred Sahiwal donor cows (Group A), only 3 donors (50.00%) responded to treatment with the total number of CL to be 17 (5.67/donor) and a total of 10 (3 VE and 7 degenerated) embryos. The mean recovery of total and viable embryos for responded donors and overall were found to be 3.33 and 1.00 and 1.67 and 0.50 embryos per flush, respectively. All the purebred Sahiwal heifers (Group B) responded to treatment with the total number of CL to be 50 (8.33/donor) and a total of 37 (18 VE; 2 UFO; 1 zona and 16 degenerated) embryos. The mean recovery of total and viable embryos was found to be 6.17 and 3.00 embryos per flush, respectively. Four (66.67%) HF X Sahiwal crossbred cows (Group C) responded to treatment with the total number of CL to be 28 (7.00/donor) and with 17 (3 VE; 11 UFO; no zona and 3 degenerated) embryos. The mean recovery of total and viable embryos for responded donors and overall were found to be 4.25 and 0.75 and 2.83 and 0.50 embryos per flush, respectively. Among the six HF x Sahiwal crossbred cows (Group D), 5 (83.33%) cows responded to treatment with the total number of CL to be 31 (6.20/donor) and a total of 21 (12 VE; 6 UFO; no zona and 3 degenerated) embryos. The mean recovery of total and viable embryos for responded donors and overall were found to be 4.20 and 2.40 and 3.50 and 2.00 embryos per flush, respectively. The Sahiwal heifers (Group B) yielded comparatively higher number of mean ovulations (8.33) and embryos, both total (6.17) as well as viable (3.00), than those of the cows under Group A (3.17, 1.67 and 0.50, respectively). Comparatively better response was observed in crossbred cows (Group C: 4.88 mean ovulations and 2.83 total embryos) than in purebred Sahiwal cows (Group A: 3.17 mean ovulations and 1.67 total embryos). Comparatively higher response to multiple ovulation treatment and higher recovery of total and viable embryos (5.33, 3.50, 2.00, respectively) were observed in crossbred cows of Group D than in crossbred cows of Group C (4.83, 2.83, 0.50, respectively). The mean number of ovulations for superovulatory responsive (SR) and non-SR cows were found to be 6.33+1.83 and 0.67+0.27, respectively. Mean age in months and parity of SR and non-SR donor cows were 70.75 ± 20.42, 3.17 ± 0.91 and 96.67 + 39.46, 3.83 ± 1.56, respectively. No significant variation was found in blood plasma concentrations of progesterone among four groups of donors for all the stages of MOET. The mean blood plasma concentrations of estrogen varied significantly between groups. The mean blood plasma estrogen concentrations were found to be significantly (t=3.293, p<0.05) higher at all the stages of MOET for Sahiwal heifers than cows (t=3.293); for Sahiwal crossbred cows than purebred Sahiwal cows (t=3.955) as well as for crossbred cows (without GnRH) than crossbred cows (with GnRH) with the difference being non significant. The mean blood plasma concentrations of progesterone and estrogen at Stage IV (synchronized estrus; 0.42+0.17 ng/ml and 18.50+7.55 pg/ml, respectively) and at Stage VII (at PG injection during FSH treatment; 1.85+0.76 ng/ml and 12.67+5.17 pg/ml, respectively) in purebred Sahiwal heifers (Group B) were found to be correlated significantly with the rate of ovulation, i.e., 8.33 ovulations/donor (R2=0.902, p<0.031; R^=0.831, p<0.069, respectively).The mean blood plasma concentrations of progesterone and estrogen at Stage VI (initiation of FSH treatment; 1.90+0.77 ng/ml and 37.50+15.31 pg/ml, respectively) and at Stage VII (at PG injection during FSH treatment; 2.05+0.84 ng/ml and 37.00+15.11 pg/ml, respectively) in HP x Sahiwal crossbred cows (Group C) were found to be correlated significantly with the rate of ovulation, i.e., 4.83 ovulations/donor (R2=0.898, p<0.033; R2=0.841, p<0.064, respectively). The plasma concentrations of estrogen remained to be the highest at superovulatory estrus in all four groups (A, B, C and D) of donors (39.33+16.06; 18.33+7.48; 60.33+24.63 and 49.17+20.07 pg/ml, respectively). The mean blood plasma progesterone concentration declined significantly after PG injection during FSH treatment (Stage VII) and on the day of superovulatory estrus (Stage VIII) in all groups (A, B, C and D) of donors (2.11+0.86 to 0.25+0.10; 1.85+ 0.76 to 0.73+0.30; 2.05+0.84 to 0.27+0.11 and 1.84+0.75 to 0.41+0.17 ng/ml, respectively). For SR and non-SR donors, the mean number of ovulations and recovery of total and viable embryos were found to be 6.33+1.83, 4.00+1.15 and 1.50+0.43; and 0.67+0.27, nil and nil, respectively. The SR cows (n=12) yielded a total of 48 embryos comprising 18 (37.50%) viable embryos (@ 1.50/flush) and remaining 30 (62.50%) to be either un-fertilized ova (17) or degenerated embryos (13). The mean plasma progesterone and estrogen levels have been found to be substantially higher in SR donor cows than non- SR donor cows at all the stages of MOET. The total number of ovulations did not vary significantly between donors of Group C and D (29 Vs 32). However, there was a significantly higher recovery of viable embryos in Group D (12 VE; @ 2.0/flush) than that of Group C (3 VE; @ 0.5/flush). Based on the results obtained, it was concluded that since purebred Sahiwal heifers had superior SOV response to gonadotrophin treatment and higher recovery of total and viable embryos as compared to Sahiwal cows, heifers can be used as potential embryos donors. The significantly higher levels of mean blood plasma progesterone and estrogen in SR cows than in non-SR cows are indicative of possible underlying role of sound profile of ovarian circulating steroids in contributing towards better results of MOET. Administration of GnRH at the time of Al in superovulated donors may help in increasing the fertilization rate and recovery of more viable embryos of superior quality. Decreasing superovulatory response in donor cows with an increase in cows' age, parity and lactational stress, is suggestive of the use of young and stress free animals for MOET work.ThesisItem Open Access MONITORING POSTPARTUM PERIOD IN HOLSTEIN FRIESIAN COWS THROUGH CLINICAL DIAGNOSIS, METABOLIC PROFILE AND HORMONAL THERAPY(AAU, Anand, 2004) PATEL, PANKAJKUMAR M.; DHAMI, A. J.This study was carried out on 24 Holstein Friesian cows of an organized farm over first 150 days (21 week) postpartum with the objective of monitoring postpartum period through clinical diagnosis, and weekly plasma progesterone, biochemical, metabolic and macro-micro mineral profiles. The study also covered evaluation of effect of single i/m injection of GnRH (5 ml Receptal) and PGF2a (5 ml Lutalyse) at day 48-49 postpartum on reproductive efficiency and blood plasma profiles in 6 cows each with suboestrus and inactive ovarian conditions, respectively, keeping equal numbers as control. The important puerperal/reproductive events of each cow were recorded. The cows exhibiting signs of oestrus, either natural or induced, were bred only after 50 days of calving by AI using frozen-thawed semen. The cultural examination of CVM samples and antibiotic sensitivity of isolates were also made once at first AI/breeding. Heparinized venous blood samples were collected from all the cows at weekly interval from the day of calving till 21st week postpartum. The plasma samples were used for various estimations. Progesterone profile was estimated using standard RIA technique. Plasma glucose, total protein, total cholesterol, triglycerides, calcium, inorganic phosphorus and magnesium levels were determined by using standard assay kits and an autoanalyzer. The levels of Zn, Fe, Cu, Co and Mn were estimated in wet oxidized plasma samples using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The time required for expulsion of placenta, its weight, birth weight of the calf, the sex ratio of male to female birth, and the period for regression of pregnancy CL and uterine involution averaged 5.77 ± 0.44 hrs, 4.46 ± 0.21 kg, 36.38 ± 0.94 kg, 1.4:1, 8.38 ± 1.27 days and 33.29 ± 0.69 days, respectively. The pregnancy CL was not palpable by day 7 postpartum in more than 70 per cent of cows with normal puerperal events. Individual animal's P4 profile revealed that majority of cows (17/24) ovulated silently at least once before the uterine involution was completed. Treatment to oestrus induction interval was significantly (P < 0.01) shorter in PGF2a than the GnRH group, and even in PGF2α treated than its control group (2.50 ± 0.22 vs 15.33 ± 3.48 days), but not in GnRH treated and control groups (31.33 ± 9.37 vs 37.00 ± 5.87 days), as 50 per cent of GnRH treated cows did not respond to therapy. The first service and overall conception rates were 31.58 and 33.53 per cent .among the cows bred. In all, 3 cows each in GnRH and PGF2α treatment groups, 2 cows in PGF2α control group and none in GnRH control group conceived out of 6 in each group. The main reason for overall low conception rate (33.53%) was sudden change in breeding policy midway - not to breed cows before 90 days postpartum - and by that time majority of cows turned into anoestrus condition due to loss of body condition and negative energy balance. Only 45.83 per cent of CVM samples yielded one or another type of bacterial isolate on cultural examination and remaining all were sterile. Maximum isolates (81.82%) were sensitive to tetracycline, gentamicin (72.73%), or chloramphenicol (63.64%), and all were resistant to ftirazolidone and cloxacillin. Further, of the 8 cows that conceived, 4 (50.00%) had sterile cervical mucus at first breeding. The overall mean P4 level was insignificantly lower in GnRH than the PGF2α group (2.37 ± 0.14 vs 2.98 ±0.18 ng/ml). The weekly mean P4 concentrations in GnRH treatment, control and pooled groups differed insignificantly between weeks postpartum, except in control group. However in PGF2α treatment, control and pooled groups, it varied highly significantly (P < 0.01) in the range of 1.11 ± 0.32 to 7.37 ±1.12 ng/ml, with lowest value on the day of calving. The difference between PGF2α treated and control group was also significant (P < 0.05) at 7th, 13th and 17th week postpartum. The conceived cows had significantly higher plasma P4 profile than the non-conceived cows (3.23 ± 0.21 vs 2.42 ± 0.12 ng/ml). In non-conceived group it increased significantly by 6th week postpartum (3.59 ± 0.69 ng/ml), reached to a peak of 4.14 ± 0.97 ng/ml at 10th week and then fluctuated insignificantly till 21st week postpartum. The weekly P4 profile revealed varying incidence of irregular cycles (short 25%; long 33.33%), silent ovulation (66.66%), anoestrum (12.33%) and embryonic mortality (8.33%) in cows under study. PGF2α treatment on day 49 postpartum induced rapid luteolysis and caused resumption of follicular activity and ovulation with simultaneous rise of the P4 by 9th week postpartum and 2 out of 6 animals conceived at induced oestrus.ThesisItem Open Access MANAGEMENT OF REPRODUCTIVE PROBLEMS IN HOLSTEIN FRIESIAN COWS(AAU, Anand, 2004) LAKUM, PRASHANT D.; PANCHAL, M. T.The present study on "Management of Reproductive Problems in Holstein Friesian cows" was conducted in the Department of Animal Reproduction, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anand Agricultural University, Anand Campus, Anand during the period from November 2002 to May 2003. The experimental animals (n=27) were selected from the herd of Holstein Friesian cows of HF Project, IDC Unit, Anand Agricultural University, Anand with 1 to 4 parity and an average age of 72.52 + 4.65 months. The cows repeating beyond 6 months postpartum and anoestrus cows beyond 6 months postpartum were thoroughly screened for their genital health through gynaeco-clinical examinations. All the cows were studied for weekly blood plasma progesterone profiles in fertile and infertile oestrous cycles in treated cows suffering from repeat breeding (Post-insemination Antibiotics - PIA; n=l 1 / Luteinizing Hormone - hCG; n=5) and anoestrus (Gonadotrophins Releasing Hormone - GnRH; n=6 / Prostaglandin - PGF2a; n=5) conditions and normal fertile untreated cows (n=5), along with various biochemical parameters (glucose, total protein, total cholesterol, triglyceride) and macro-micro minerals in relation to fertility. The treated HF cows were also studied for the pregnancy results in terms of conception rate. Blood plasma samples were collected at weekly interval from the day of insemination and/or any treatment till next oestrus or conception or 50 days post-AI. The data, thus generated after progesterone assay and various biochemical estimations, were statistically analyzed. Cows were inseminated during oestrus and were followed for repeatation to oestrus and/or pregnancy diagnosis. The cervico-vaginal mucus (CVM) samples were subjected to the cultural isolation and antibiotic sensitivity test prior to the first AI. Among the CVM samples (n=27) screened for bacterial isolates, 14 (51.85%) samples had bacterial growth comprising 12 (85.71%) and 2 (14.29%) samples single and mixed type of bacterial isolates, respectively. Among the bacterial isolates obtained from HF cows, gram positive bacilli (37.50%) and Staphylococcus spp. (31.25%) were found to be predominant bacterial isolates followed by gram negative bacilli (12.50%), Streptococcus spp. (12.50%) and E. coli (6.25%). The bacterial isolates were found to be sensitive to the tune of 93.75 and 87.50 per cent for gentamicin and chloremphenicol, respectively. The pregnancy rates were 54.55 (6/11), 60.00 (3/5), 66.67 (4/6) and 80.00 (4/5) per cent in infertile treated HF cows with post-insemination antibiotic, LH (hCG; 1500 IU, IM), GnRH (Receptal; Buserelin acetate; 0.02 mg; IM) and PGF2a (Lutalyse; Dinoprost tromethamine; 25 mg; IM), respectively, with an overall pregnancy rate of 62.96 (17/27) per cent as compared to 100.00 (5/5) per cent in untreated control cows. The overall services per conception were found to be 2.24 in treated HF cows. All the cows, treated with GnRH (n=6) and PGF2a (n=5) came in oestrus with an average duration of onset of oestrus to be 21.00 + 3.61 days (Range: 7-28 days) and 72.00 + 13.15 hours (Range: 48-120 hours), respectively. The mean plasma progesterone (ng/ml) level of treated conceived cows was minimum on day '0' (0.65 + 0.12) which increased significantly (P<0.05) on days 7, 14 and 21 post-insemination and subsequently it was maintained. Practically similar trend in the rise of the progesterone levels was observed in the control conceived cows. In treated non-conceived cows, significant (P<0.01) decrease in plasma progesterone level was observed on day '21' post-insemination. The trend of delayed rise in progesterone levels from day '0' to '7' and to '14' was observed in treated non-conceived cows as compared to treated conceived and control conceived cows. The mean plasma progesterone level on day '0' in normal fertile (control) cows (1.16 + 0.18 ng/ml) was found to be significantly higher (P<0.05) than those of treated conceived (0.65 + 0.12 ng/ml) and treated non-conceived cows (0.72 + 0.14 ng/ml). The mean levels of blood glucose, plasma total protein, total cholesterol, triglyceride, calcium, inorganic phosphorus, magnesium, copper, cobalt, zinc, iron and manganese in normal fertile cows and treated conceived cows suffering form repeat breeding and anoestrus conditions were found to be 51.19 + 1.70 and 48.77 + 0.71 mg/dl, 7.87 ±0.18 and 6.50 ± 0.07 g/dl, 133.78 + 2.33 and 109.24 +1.83 mg per cent, 65.01 ± 2.43 and 108.56 ± 3.32 mg/dl, 13.89 ± 0.12 and 11.23 + 0.13 mg/dl, 7.81 + 0.20 and 6.76 + 0.13 mg/dl, 3.00 + 0.06 and 3.45 ±0.07 mEq/l, 0.66 ± 0.03 and 0.87 ± 0.02 ppm, 0.41 ± 0.02 and 0.34 ± 0.02 ppm, 1.30 ± 0.04 and 1.62 ± 0.05 ppm, 5.89 ± 0.16 and 6.77 ±0.14 ppm, and 0.16 + 0.01 and 0.20 ± 0.03 ppm, respectively. The mean levels of blood glucose, plasma total protein, total cholesterol, calcium, inorganic phosphorus and cobalt were found to be higher in normal fertile cows as compared to treated (repeat breeder and anoestrus) conceived cows with the difference being highly significant between the groups except for blood glucose levels.