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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 renoprotective effect of aqueous and alcoholic biherbal extracts of Bryophyllum Calycinum and Solanum Xanthocarpum in Wistar rats(DEPARTMENT OF VETERINARY MEDICINE COLLEGE OF VETERINARY SCIENCE & ANIMAL HUSBANDRY ANAND AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY ANAND, 2017) PATEL DHAVALKUMAR BHAILALBHAI; Dr. S. K. RavalUrolithiasis or kidney stone is formation of urinary calculi at any level of urinary tract. It is one of the oldest and wide spread diseases known to man. The occurrence in some areas is so alarming that they are known as “Stone belts”. A number of plants have been used because of being efficient for curing and correcting urinary stones; for example, Tribulus terrestris (fruit), Bryophyllum calycinum (Leaves), Soalnumn xanthocarpum (fruit) Didymocarpus pedicellata (leaf), Dolichos biflorus (seed), fruits and leaves of Solanum nigrum, and seeds of Cichorium intybus are very common in Traditional Indian System of Medicine.ThesisItem Open Access CLINICAL, HAEMATOBIOCHEMICAL AND THERAPEUTIC MANAGEMENT OF RUMINAL ACIDOSIS IN GOATS(DEPARTMENT OF VETERINARY MEDICINE COLLEGE OF VETERINARY SCIENCE AND ANIMAL HUSBANDRY ANAND AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY ANAND, 2017) CHAVELIKAR PRATIKKUMAR RAMESHCHANDRA; Dr. G.C. MandaliGoat is a versatile animal known as the “Poor man’s cow” in India. Archaeological studies provide sufficient evidence that goat was the earliest ruminant and probably the first animal after dog to be domesticated by man long before 7000 B.C. India has the largest population of goats of the world. Ruminal acidosis is one of the most important clinical emergencies in small ruminants.ThesisItem Open Access CLINICAL STUDIES ON EPIDEMIOLOGY PATHOLOGY, DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT OF DOWNER COW SYNDROME(AAU, Anand, 2009) PATEL, BHAVIKA RAMESHBHAI; Patel, P. R.The downer cow syndrome is an emerging problem in high yielding cows. Management of such downer cows becomes a most challenging problem for any veterinarian. Downer cow syndrome is an extensively studied phenomenon all over the world but meager information has been reported in India. The present work on "Clinical Studies on Epidemiology, Pathology, Diagnosis and Management of Downer Cow Syndrome" was undertaken during the period starting from 1st October 2008 to 15th May 2009 in and around Anand town (Gujarat) to study the epidemiology and clinical management of downer cow syndrome. A total of 2,242 cows were at risk for downer cow syndrome, out of which 48 cows (2.14%) were found to be showing definitive signs of downer syndrome. Out of 48 downer cows, the highest incidence was recorded in more than a week recumbent downer cows (21 cases; 43.8%) followed by five days (11 cases; 22.9%), three days (10 cases; 20.8%) and one day (6 cases; 12.5%)). Out of 48 cases of downer cows syndrome, the incidence was recorded to be highest in Jersey crossbred (25 cases; 52.0%), followed by Holstein Friesian crossbred (15 cases; 31,2%), pure Holstein Friesian (5 cases; 10.4%), non -descript (2 cases; 4.2%) and pure Jersey (1 case; 2.0%). Out of 48 cases of downer cow syndrome, the highest incidences was recorded in high milk producers (23 cases; 48%), followed by average milk producers (22 cases; 46%)) and low milk producers (3 cases; 6%). Out of 48 cases of downer cow syndrome, the incidence was recorded to be highest in third and fourth lactation (22 cases; 46.2%)), followed by second lactation (10 cases; 20.7%), first lactation (9 cases; 18.5%), sixth lactation (5 cases; 10.5%) and fifth lactation (two cases; 4.1%). Type of housing and hygienic condition was not found to be correlated with the incidence of downer cow syndrome. Majority of the cows suffered from downer syndrome around calving or within a month post parturition. However, cases also occurred in late lactation, advance pregnancy and other physiological states. Downer cows were found into two categories clinically alert downers (41 cases; 85.4%) and non alert downers (7 cases; 14.6%). The alert downers were bright and alert with normal or slightly reduced appetite. The body temperature, rumination, urination and defecation were normal. The heart and respiratory rates were normal except few cows which had accelerated heart and respiratory rates (12 cases; 29.2%). Such cows tried to get up from front but were unable to raise their hind quarters. Characteristic crawling was also observed in fourteen (31.1%)) downer cows. The non-alert downers preferred lateral recumbency and they were completely anorectic with accelerated heart and respiratory rates. Haematologically, the downer cows had significantly (p<0.05) decreased Hb (7.90 ± 0.45), PCV (24.65 ± 1.26) and TEC (4.77 ± 0.15). Whereas significant (p<0.05) increased MCV (62.43±1.25), decreased MCHC (27.61 ±1.30), relatively neutropliiiia (44.12±1.97) and lymphopenia (52.83±2.12). The concentration of blood glucose (104.14 ± 6.57), BUN (20.00 ± 1.89) and creatinine (3.62 ± 0.53mg/dl) were significantly higher in downer cows. The activities of serum enzymes like AST (196.95 ± 19.41), ALT (57.41±7.84), CPK (14.93±1.07) and LDH (503.91 ±6.42) were significantly (p<0.05) higher in downer cows. Downer cows had significantly (p<0.05) low calcium (7.58±0.26), phosphorus (3.84±0.13), magnesium (2.82±0.09) and potassium (3.15±0.18) concentration. Majority of downer cows suffered from net deficiency of calcium, phosphorus, potassium and magnesium while some had combined deficiency. The Cortisol level (151.00±0.48) significantly (p<0.05) elevated in downer cow syndrome. Histopathologically, necrosis of muscle, demyelinization as well as loss of axon of nerves and degenerative changes in heart, liver, and kidney were characteristic features. In order to understand and formulate suitable diagnosis and therapeutic measures; clinical symptoms, haematology, biochemical profile, enzymes, minerals and electrolyte were studied on 48 cows suffering form downer cow syndrome. With combined therapy consisting of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and nervine stimulant at parenteral route with manual change of sides, massage of limbs and lifting of animals manually or with the help of sling on two-three occasions a day, success could be gained in 52 per cent downer cows (25 out of 48). The downer thus treated showed clinical recovery within a period of 3-40 days.ThesisItem Open Access Therapeutic efficacy of biherbal extracts of Bryophyllum calcynium and Tribulus terrestis in ethylene glycol induced urolithiasis in Wistar rats(AAU, Anand, 2015) MASHIYAVA, PARIMAL HARESHKUMAR; Raval, S. K.Urolithiasis is formation of urinary calculi at any level of urinary tract. It is estimated that 12% of world human population experiences renal disease with a recurrence rate of 70-80% in male and 47-60% in female. There is no established treatment for prevention of urolithiasis. So, there is a need to establish a medical treatment for prevention of recurrent stone formation, hidigenous plants have been used as a potential source of medicine since ancient times. Herbal medicines offer conventional treatments, providing safe and well-tolerated remedies for chronic illnesses which typically resulted from the combinations of secondary plant metabolites that are synthesized and deposited in specific parts or in all parts of the plant. The fruits of Tribulus terrestis are recommended for the treatment of urinary disorders and leaves of Bryophyllum calcynium is rich in alkaloids, triterpenes. glycosides, flavonoids, cardienolides, steroids, bufadienolides and lipids. They are commonly used as a folk medicine in India to treat renal calculi. Traditional medical practitioners prescribe a combination of herbal products with synergistic action. The present study was conducted on 90 adult (female) healthy Wistar rats. In this experiment 0.75% (v/v) ethylene glycol was used for induction of urolithiasis in Wistar rats. Rats were selected randomly and divided in to 12 groups (Group - I, II, III, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII, IX, X, XI and XII). Group I served as normal control consisted of healthy animals. Urolithiasis was induced in group II, IV, V, VI, VII, VII and IX animals using 0.75 % (v/v) ethylene glycol along with drinking water for 21 days. Group I, Group III, Group X, Group XI and Group XII animals were given normal drinking water. Bryophyllum calcynium and Tribulus terrestis plants were used in this antiurolithiatic study. Aqueous, methanolic and chloroform extract was prepared from fruits of Tribulus terrestis and leaves of Bryophyllum calcynium. Physical characteristics of the extracts (aqueous, methanolic and chloroform) of plant Bryophyllum calcynium and Tribulus terrestis were studied and percent extractability of extracts (aqueous, methanolic and chloroform) of plant Bryophyllum calcynium was ranging from 19.63- 22.62 while Tribulus terrestis was ranging from 16.08-19.92. Extracts of Bryophyllum calcynium and Tribulus terrestis was mixed in 1:1 ratio and administered by oral route using sterile 1ml syringe with oral rat gavage needle. Blood sample was collected twice: first after 21 days of induction of urolithiasis and then 28 days after dosing period i.e. on the 21st and 49th day of experimental period. At the end of experimental period kidney, liver and spleen were collected for histopathological examination. Rats in all groups were observed for some abnormal behavior, salivation (excessive salivation), diarrhea. No significant difference was observed in behavior or changes of all groups. After induction of urolithiasis Group II, IV, V, VII, VIII and IX showed progressively decreased in feed consumption up to third week as compare to group I. It may be due to progressive pathological changes. After onset of biherbal plant extract treatment group II showed significant (P < 0.05) lower feed consumption as compared to group I while group IV, VI, VII VIII and IX showed significant (P < 0.05) increase in feed consumption as compare to group II. It may be due to effect of treatment given by biherbal aqueous, methanolic and chloroform plant extract. Group VI and VII showed significant (P < 0.05) increase in feed consumption as compare to group II and also other treatment group. That indicates methanoUc biherbal plant extract was more effective against urolithiasis in Wistar rats. Body weight during experiment was measured in each group. Same as feed consumption body weight also progressively decreased in 0.75 % (v/v) EG treated groups during first three weeks. After onset of treatment group VI and VII showed significant (P < 0.05) increase in body weight as compare to group II and also other treatment group. Rats were continuously monitored throughout the experimental period; no mortality was recorded throughout the experimental period. Hematological evaluation reveals that during the period of urolithiasis induction Group II, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII and IX showed significant (P < 0.05) decrease in mean value of hemoglobin as compared to group I (Normal control). It may be due to induction of urolithiasis by 0.75% (v/v) EG. While after biherbal plant extract treatment group VII (BHE-II) showed significant (P < 0.05) increase in mean value of hemoglobin as compared to group II. Induction of urolithiasis also reveals decreased in mean value of MCHC in 0.75% (v/v) EG treated groups while after treatment with biherbal plant extract Group IV, V, VI, VII and group XI showed significant (P < 0.05) increase in mean value of MCHC as compared to group II (Lithiatic control). Other hematological parameters like TEC, TLC, DLC, PCV and MCV did not show any significant variation during induction period of urolithiasis as well as during the treatment with biherbal plant extract. Group II, rV, V, VI, VII, VIII and IX showed non-significant decrease in mean value of serum total protein as compared to group I (Normal control). It may be due to induction of urolithiasis by 0.75% (v/v) EG. While after biherbal plant extract treatment Group VII showed significant (P < 0.05) increase in mean value of total protein as compared to group II. Due to urolithiasis induction Group II, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII and IX showed significant (P < 0.05) decrease in mean value of serum calcium as compared to group I (Normal control). While after treatment with biherbal plant extract group VII (BHE-II) showed significant (P < 0.05) increase in mean value of serum calcium as compared to group II. Due to urolithiasis induction group II, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII and IX showed significant (P < 0.05) increase in mean value of serum magnesium as compared to group I (Normal control) while after treatment with biherbal plant extract, group VII (BHE-II) showed significant (P < 0.05) decrease in mean value of serum magnesium as compared to group II. Group II, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII and IX showed significant (P < 0.05) increase in mean value of serum BUN as compared to group I (Normal control). It may be due to induction of urolithiasis by 0.75% (v/v) EG while after treatment with biherbal plant extract, groups IV, V, VI, VII, VIII, IX showed significant (P < 0.05) decrease in mean values of BUN as compare to group II (Lithiatic control). Group II, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII and IX showed significant (P < 0.05) increase in mean value of serum uric acid as compared to group I (Normal control). It may be due to induction of urolithiasis by 0.75% (v/v) EG while after treatment with biherbal plant extract, groups V, VI and VII showed significant (P < 0.05) decrease in mean values of serum uric acid as compare to group II (Lithiatic control). Group II, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII and IX showed significant increase in mean value of serum creatinine as compared to group I (Normal control). It may be due to induction of urolithiasis by 0.75%) (v/v) EG while after treatment with biherbal plant extract, group VII showed significant (P < 0.05) decrease in mean values of serum creatinine as compare to group II. No gross and microscopic changes were noted in liver and spleen of rats fi-om different groups while histopathological examinations of kidney revealed many pathological alterations. In the groups where 0.75% (v/v) ethylene glycol was given showed pathological alterations like necrotic degeneration; inter tubular hemorrhage, cystic dilatation of tubular epithelium, tubular epithelial hyperplasia and presence of cast in the lumen of tubules on H & E Stain while group VI and VII showed comparatively less pathological alteration on histopathological examination on 0.75% (v/v) EG treated rat kidney it may be due to nephroprotective effect of Bryophyllum calcynium and Tribulus terrestis. These may be due to some active components of Bryophyllum calcynium and Tribulus terrestis which have protective effect against uroliths and they are responsible for reduction of lesions in kidney. This herbal drug could reduce the kidney damage significantly indicating its protective effects against ethylene glycol induced urolithiasis. The test drug has also beneficial effect on serum calcium, magnesium, Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, uric acid and ureaThesisItem Open Access STUDIES ON CLINICO-ETIOPATHOLOGY AND THERAPEUTIC MANAGEMENT OF VARIOUS CANINE DERMATOSES(AAU, Anand, 2004) Nair, Sreegeetha Sreedharan; Nauriyal, D. S.On screening of 2618 dogs brought at the Zaveri Clinic affiliated to the College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anand during the period January 2001 and December 2001, the overall incidence of dermatitis was observed to be 23.68 per cent (620 cases). Of the various types of dermatitis studied the incidence of tick infestation was found to be maximum (19.19%) whereas that of acanthosis nigricans was minimum (0.32 per cent), Greater number of cases of dermatitis were observed during the rainy season (45.48%) while breedwise GSD (27.90%), Spitz (26.12%) and Mongrel (21.29%) showed higher susceptibility to skin afflictions. More than 50 per cent of the affected dogs were found to be males and 48.06 per cent dogs presented with dermatological afflictions were between 1 to 6 years of age. Microscopic examination of the skin scrapings collected from suspected cases of scabies, demodicosis and fungal infection revealed Demodex spp. (10 cases), Sarcoptes scahiei var. cams (13 cases) and fungal hyphae or spores (15 cases). Further, cultural inoculation of scrapings from suspected cases of fungal infection resulted in isolation of 10 fungal isolcates identified as Trichophyton spp. (2), filamentous fungi (4), Aspergilhis spp. (2) and yeast (2 isolates). The bacteriologjcal culture examination of 43 pus swabs collected from pyogenic skin lesions resulted in the growth of 44 bacterial isolates which were obtained either as nionomicrobic or as mixed culture. Similarly bacterial cultural examination of otic exudates also yielded growth of bacterial isolates in pure culture or mixed culture, Among various bacteria cultured, Staphylococcus spp, accounted for the highest number of isolates from cases of pyoderma as well as otitis externa. One of the ear exudates collected from a Cocker Spaniel with seborrhoeic sicca resulted in the isolation of Malassezia pachydcnnatis: In vitro antibacterial susceptibility test performed on all the bacterial isolates obtained from cases of pyoderma and otitis externa exhibited highest sensitivity to ciprofloxacin which also proved to be the most effective antibacterial when used in the treatment of clinical cases. Hematological study conducted on dermatitis revealed statistically significant decrease in hemoglobin concentration and total erythrocytic count, increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate, neutrophilia and eosinophilia, Histopathological study of the biopsy specimens collected from cases of dermatological afflictions revealed characteristic changes. The histopathological alterations observed in the biopsy specimens of pyoderma comprised of acute superficial pyoderma, deep pyoderma and chronic suppurative deimatitis. Periodic Acid Schiff (PAS) stained sections of skin infected with fungi showed fungal spores and hyphae along with other pronounced histological changes such as hyperkeratosis, acanthosis, presence of scales on the epidermis as well as follicular changes. In case of scabies, predominenl changes noticed included presence of degenerated pieces of mites mixed with exudate in the epidermis or epidermal burrows, in demodicosis, the predominent changes included dilatation of hair follicles with mites, folliculitis and destruction of hair follicles and dermal tissue. Skin biopsies from cases of flea-allergic dermatitis, tick, lice and fly infestations showed body parts of parasites and their excreta mixed with keratin and cellular debris on the superficial epidermis. The cases of allergic dermatitis revealed epidermal and dermal oedema, superficial exudate, necrotic changes and cellular infiltration. The seborrhoeic lesions revealed hyperkeratosis of epidermis, hyperkeratotic projection of papillae and keratin plugging of the hair follicles. In acral lick dermatitis, notable microscopic changes included sebaceous gland hyperplasia, hyperkeratinization and destruction of collagen fibre. The biopsy from callus lesions revealed subepidermal cyst and keratin pearl and dermal fibrosis. Histological changes in acanthosis nigrican included detachment of keratin layer, epidermal papillae and atrophy of hair follicles. Histopathological investigation of tumourous masses revealed characteristic lesions of lipoma, fibromelanoma, hemangioma and adenocarcinoma. The cases of pyoderma and pyogenic lesions were treated successfully with systemic antibiotics like ciprofloxacin, erythromycin and cephalexin and topical antiseptic preparations. The dogs suffering from fungal infections were treated effectively with topical antifungal drugs alone or in combination with griseofulvin. In infestations caused by Sarcoptes and Demodex spp., topical use of amitraz and subcutaneous injection of ivermectin or simultaneous use of both drugs brought about clinical and parasitological cure. In case of scabies, use of other ectoparasiticidal drugs viz. deltamethrin and cypermethrin also proved to be effective. In flea-infested dogs and dogs with other arthropod parasites like ticks, lice and flies, treatment of both the animal and its environment with acaricidal drugs was found to be effective in controlling parasite population. The ectoparasiticidal compounds found effective against fleas were carbaryl and deltamethrin. The insecticides found effective against ticks, lice and flies included deltamethrin, cypermethrin, carbaryl and amitraz. Combination of topical use of these drugs along with subcutaneous injection of invermectin also proved to have appreciable parasiticidal effects on arthropods. The effective management of immune mediated dermatoses (contact dermatitis, atopy, food allergy and drug allergy) was done by identification of the underlying cause, its correction and control of pruritus with topical and systemic antipruritic agents. In cases of seborrhoea, the lesions showed resolution with the use of selenium sulphide containing antiseborrhoeic shampoo for bathing, topical use of keratolytic compound along with dietary supplementation with sunflower or peanut oil. The cases of acral lick dermatitis were treated effectively with combination of drugs comprising of oral administration of corticosteroids and intra-lesional injections of triamcinolone acetonide. The callus condition was clinically managed by daily soaking of the affected area in luke-warm water and topical use oremollienl cream on the lesions. The lesions observed in acanthosis nigrican were treated with topical application of compound containing benzoic acid and use of corticosteroid drug. The pruritus associated with various disorders barring demodicosis was controlled with systemic use of prednisolone in tapering dosage. Non-sleroidal antiinflammatory drugs like clemastine and hydroxyzine also showed excellent therapeutic response in most of the cases of pruritus. The treatment protocol found effective in the treatment of ear infection comprised of cleaning of ear debris using a ceruminolytic/ear wax dissolvent and subsequently instillation of ear preparations containing antibacterial drugs (in cases of bacterial infection) or antifungal drugs (in case of mycotic infection). The cases of otitis caused by Malassezia pachydermatis were treated successfully by systemic use of ketoconazole and instillation with otic preparation containing antifungal agent.ThesisItem Open Access STUDIES ON ETIO-DIAGNOSIS OF SUBCLINICAL INTRAMAMMARY INFECTIONS OF COWS WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO SOME MASTITIS MARKERS(AAU, Anand, 2012) Langer, Anil; Nauriyal, D. S.The dairy sector in India has shown remarkable progress in the recent years and consequently the country has now become the largest milk producer in the world. In spite of this the milk production per animal is substantially less compared to developed countries which is largely attributed to inflammation of mammary gland or mastitis. Mastitis a disease of cows and buffaloes which results in severe economic losses to livestock owners and dairy industry world wide. The present study was conducted during August 2011 to January, 2012 at the Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anand Agricultural University, Anand with a view to work out the prevalence of subclinical mastitis among cows, to compare the efficacy of six mastitis markers in detecting subclinical mastitis by using bacteriological culture examination as reference test, and to study the antibiogram pattern of bacterial isolates recovered from cases of subclinical mastitis. On screening of 69 lactating cows (Kankrej-26, Gir-8, triple cross-35) belonging to the herd maintained at Livestock Research Station, Anand, the overall prevalence of subclinical mastitis was observed to be 66.67 per cent in one or more quarters. Quarterwise prevalence was recorded at 33.45 per cent. Among infected quarters, fore and right-side quarters exhibited greater involvement. More frequent infection of two quarter was noticed than single and multiple quarters. Cows in their first lactation showed highest prevalence of subclinical mastitis. Similarly, cows in their late stage of lactation were found to be more frequently associated with insidious subclinical udder infection. Out of 89 infected quarters, 50 quarters yielded monomicrobic isolates whereas remaining 39 quarters harboured mixed infection. On bacteriological culture examination, a total of 190 bacterial isolates were recovered which comprised of 54 isolates of CPS (Staph, aureus-8 Staph, hyicus-40. Staph, intermedius-6), 115 isolates of CNS (Staph, chromogenes-94. Staph. epidermidis-21), 2 isolates of Micrococcous varians, 11 isolates of Str. agalactiae, 8 isolates of coliforms (Enterobacter sp.-3, E. coli and Klebsiella sp.-2 each, Serratia marcescens- one).ThesisItem Open Access STUDIES ON ETIO-PATHOLOGY OF BACTERIAL AND MYCOLOGICAL INFECTIONS OF SKIN AND EAR IN CANINES AND THEIR CLINICAL MANAGEMENT(AAU, Anand, 2005) MHATRE, MILIND DNYANESH; Nauriyal, D. S.On screening of 2440 dogs brought at the Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex. Zaveri Clinic, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anand during the period between January, 2004 to December, 2004, the overall incidence of dermatitis was observed to be 15.98 per cent (391 cases). The three conditions studied in the present investigation were pyoderma, fungal skin infections and otitis externa in dogs, and the incidence of these ailments was observed to be 18.97, 2.31 and 9.74 per cent, respectively. The collective incidence of other skin diseases was found to be 69.23 per cent which included the skin diseases other than those studied in the present investigation. Greater number of cases of pyoderma were observed during monsoon season (44.59 %), whereas higher number of cases of otitis externa were recorded in summer season (59.26 %). Cases of fungal infections of skin were observed to be more in summer season. Breed-wise incidence of pyoderma was found to be more in Spitz (23.54 %), followed by Doberman (20.58 %). Out of the four culturally confirmed cases of fungal dermatitis, three dogs belonged to mongrel breed while one was crossbred. Otitis externa was also found to affect Spitz and mongrel breeds of dogs (29.93 % each). Male dogs were found to be more susceptible (52.56 %) to dermatological afflictions than that of female dogs. The involvement of males with fungal dermatoses (75 %) was highest, followed by pyoderma (67.64 %), and otitis externa (62.96 per cent). Age-wise distribution of pyoderma indicated that it occurred more in young dogs belonging to less than 1-year age group. The occurrence of fungal infections and otitis externa was observed to be more in dogs belonging to 1 to 3 years age group. Microscopic examination of the skin scrapings collected from suspected cases of secondary folliculitis to demodicosis and fungal infection revealed Demodex spp. in 5 cases, however, fungal hyphae or spores could not be observed on direct microscopy. Furthermore, mycological culture of scrapings from suspected cases of fungal infection resulted in isolation of 4 fungal isolates identified as Microsporum canis. Trichophyton spp., Aspergillus spp. and a filamentous fungi. The bacteriological culture examination of 34 pus swabs collected from pyogenic skin lesions resulted in the growth of 35 bacterial isolates which were obtained either as monomicrobic isolates or as mixed culture. Similarly, bacterial culture examination of 27 swabs of otic exudates yielded growth of 22 bacterial isolates in pure culture, three isolates as mixed culture with bacteria or yeasts and two Malassezia pachydermatis pure isolates. Among various bacteria organisms recovered on culture, Staphylococcus intermedins accounted for the highest number of isolates from cases of pyoderma as well as otitis externa. In-vitro antibacterial susceptibility test performed on all the bacterial isolates obtained from cases of pyoderma and otitis externa exhibited highest sensitivity to enrofloxacin which also proved to be the most effective antibacterial when used in the treatment of clinical cases. Haematological study revealed the values of haemoglobin for otitis externa to be significantly lower. The values of TLC indicated statistically significant increase in case of pyoderma and fungal infections. The difference in neutrophil count for pyoderma and fungal skin infection was found to be statistically significant. The values of lymphocytic count in pyoderma, otitis externa and fungal infections of skin were found to be decreased significantly. The difference in monocyte count observed in dogs suffering from otitis externa was found to be highly significant. The average values of eosinophil count in cases of pyoderma, otitis externa as well as fungal infections of skin were observed to be significantly higher. The values of basophilic count for pyoderma, otitis externa as well as fungal skin infections were also found to be statistically significant in comparison with control group Histopathological study on the skin biopsy specimens collected from cases of dermatological afflictions revealed characteristic changes. The histopathological alterations observed in the biopsy specimens from pyoderma comprised of acute superficial pyoderma, deep pyoderma and chronic suppurative dermatitis. The biopsy from callus lesions revealed perifolliculitis, hyperkeratosis, rafts of acantholytic cells, subepidermal cyst and dermal fibrosis. Sections of skin infected with fungi showed fungal spores and hyphae along with other pronounced histological changes such as hyperkeratosis, acanthosis, and presence of scales on the epidermis as well as follicular changes. The cases of pyoderma and pyogenic lesions were treated successfully with systemic antibiotics like enrofloxacin, erythromycin, cephadroxil and cephalexin and topical antiseptic preparations. The dogs suffering from fungal infections were treated effectively with topical antifungal drugs alone or in combination with either griseofulvin or ketoconazole. The pruritus associated with pyoderma, fungal skin infection and otitis externa was controlled with systemic use of prednisolone in tapering dosage. Non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs like clemastine and hydroxyzine also showed good therapeutic response in most of the cases of pruritus. The treatment protocol found effective in the cases of ear infection comprised of cleaning ear debris using a ceruminolytic/ear wax dissolvent and subsequently instillation of ear preparations containing antibacterial drugs (in cases of bacterial. infection) or antifungal drugs (in case of mycotic infection). In those cases not responding to topical medication, systemic antibacterial therapy was instituted by using the antibacterial drug found to be effective on in-vitro testing. Inflamed ears were treated using topical and/or systemic steroid preparations. The cases of otitis caused by Malassezia pachydermatis were treated successfully by systemic use of ketoconazole and instillation with otic preparation containing antifungal agent.ThesisItem Open Access STUDIES ON HEMATOLOGY, BLOOD BIOCHEMISTRY, OXIDATIVE STRESS AND SENILE CHANGES IN GERIATRIC DOGS(AAU, Anand, 2012) JAIN, SANJEETA; PATEL, P. R.The "Studies on hematology, blood biochemistry, oxidative stress and senile changes in geriatric dogs" was undertaken from January, 2012 to July, 2012, in canine population which was brought for health check up, vaccination and treatment of various ailments in the hospital. The basic objectives of present study were to know the haematobiochemical, oxidative and senile changes and prevalence of common diseases and disorders in geriatric dogs. In present study, 100 dogs (for haematobiochemical study) and 156 dogs (for diseases and senile changes) were included from hospital cases. These were divided in different groups as per parameters and purpose of study. In haematobiochemical study, 100 dogs were divided in different group i.e. apparently healthy adult dogs (10) as control group, apparently healthy geriatric dogs (30) and diseased geriatric dogs (60). Oxidative stress parameters were studied in 40 dogs which were further divided in to apparently healthy adult dogs (10) and apparently healthy geriatric dogs (30). Haematological study revealed the mean of total leucocyte count in apparently healthy geriatric dog was found lower than apparently healthy adult dog, but difference was statistically non significant. The mean of total leucocyte count in all diseases and disorders of geriatric dogs were significantly (p<0.05) higher than mean of apparently healthy geriatric dogs. The absolute lymphocyte count of healthy geriatric dogs was significantly (p<0.05) lower than that of healthy adult dogs. No significant differences were observed in absolute count of other cells in apparently healthy adult and healthy geriatric dogs. Significantly (p<0.05) higher total leucocyte count was observed in all diseased dogs compared to apparently healthy geriatric dogs. Significantly (p<0.05) lower absolute lymphocyte count was observed in apparently healthy geriatric dogs than apparently healthy adult dogs. Significantly higher absolute monocyte count and neutrophil count were observed in neoplasm condition. In differential leucocyte count, significantly lower lymphocyte (%) and significantly (p<0.05) higher monocyte (%) was observed in healthy geriatric dogs. In diseased geriatric dogs, eiosinophil (%) was significantly high in case of wound (6.66±1.86) as compared to healthy geriatric dogs (3.38±0.52). Decrease in haemoglobin was found in renal and hepatic problems of geriatric dogs. No significant differences were observed in total erythrocyte count, packed cell volume, mean corpuscular volume and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration in apparently healthy adult and geriatric dogs. Lower mean values of total erythrocyte count were observed in neoplasm, renal problems, hepatic problems and gastrointestinal problems. Decrease in packed cell volume was observed in renal problems and liver problems. Higher mean values of mean corpuscular haemoglobin (pg) were observed in apparently healthy adult dogs (22.37±24.24), neoplasm (30.11±7.04) and gastrointestinal problems (23.85±1.14) as compared to healthy geriatric dogs (21.95±0.54). Significantly (p<0.05) higher platelet count (1x10 power 3/µl) was observed in apparently health)' geriatric dogs than apparently healthy adult dogs. Higher platelet count was observed in cases of neoplasm (586±128.32) and renal problems (334±71.46). Among biochemical parameters, significantly (p<0.05) higher cholesterol (mg/dl) was observed in apparently healthy geriatric dogs (219.51± 14.27) than apparently healthy adult dogs (167±14.20). Significantly higher cholesterol was also observed in liver problems (308.68±27.51) than that of healthy geriatric dogs. Higher mean of triglyceride (mg/dl) was found in gastrointestinal (85.28±20.76) and hepatic problems (84±14.20). Mean value of calcium (mg/dl) was higher in healthy geriatric dogs (8.38±0.19) than healthy adult dogs (7.63±0.95). Significantly higher phosphorus was recorded in gastrointestinal problems (7.15±1.58) and hepatic problems (5.59±1.63) of geriatric dogs. In present study, magnesium concentration of healthy dogs was observed lower than normal range in literature. Low magnesium was observed in renal problem (0.55±0.09) of geriatric dogs. The mean values of protein concentration in different groups apparently healthy adult, apparently healthy geriatric, neoplasm, respiratory problems, gastrointestinal problems, hepatic problems and renal problems were 8.02±0.20, 10.83±0.35, 9.4±1.06 , 10.66±0.44, 10.46±0.94, 6.43±0.50 and 10.34±0.30 (g/dl) respectively. Significantly lower values were observed in cases of hepatic problems and neoplasm. Decrease in albumin was observed in apparently healthy geriatric dogs (2.62±0.16) than apparently healthy adult dogs (2.86±0.16). Significantly (p<0.05) higher globuHn was observed in apparently healthy geriatric dogs (8.07±0.34) than healthy adult dogs (6.22±0.22). Decrease in globulin was observed in neoplasm (6.59±1.24) and hepatic problems (4,68±40) of geriatric dogs. In present study, albumin/globulin ratio was observed lower than normal value reported in literature. Significant higher A/G ratio was observed in apparently healthy aduk dogs (0.40±0.02) than healthy geriatric dogs (0.34±0.01). Significantly (p<0.05) higher serum glutamic oxaloacetate transaminase and serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase were observed in apparently healthy geriatric dogs than apparently healthy adult dogs. Significant higher serum urea nitrogen was observed in healthy geriatric dogs than that of healthy adult dogs. Significantly (p<0.05) higher creatinine were observed in gastrointestinal problems (3.17±1.73), hepatic problems (2.68±1.86) and renal problems (8.85±1.70) of geriatric dogs. The mean of malondialdehyde in apparently healthy adult and apparently healthy geriatric dogs was 0.51±0.09 and 1.72±0.12 (nmol/ml) respectively. The mean of superoxide dismutase in apparently healthy adult and apparently healthy geriatric dogs was 11.01±0.93 and 6.47±0.39 (U/mg of haemoglobin) respectively. Significantly (p< 0.05) higher malondialdehyde and lower superoxide dismutase was observed in apparently healthy geriatric dogs. Among the various diseases and disorders recorded in geriatric dogs the highest prevalence was observed in gastrointestinal problems (16.66%) followed by eye problems and wound (14.10%), tumor (12.17%), dental problems (7.6%), behavior abnormalities and lameness (7.06%) and skin problem (6.4%). The prevalence of respiratory infection, behavior abnormalities, renal problems, and liver problems was noted 5.12%, 7.06%, 3.84% and 4.48%, respectively. In male dogs, highest prevalence rate of wound (17.07%) and gastrointestinal problems (17.07%) was observed. In female dogs the prevalence of neoplasm, gastrointestinal problems and eye problems were 18.91%, 16.66% and 14.86% respectively. In senile changes study, highest frequency of dental abnormalities (60) followed by vision impairment or ocular changes (50), organ function loss (30), loss of muscle tone and hearing loss (20) and increased grey hair and paraplegia (10) were recorded.ThesisItem Open Access Studies on Epidemiology, Hematobiochemistry and Seroprevalence of Piroplasmosis in Horses(AAU, Anand, 2015) VIDHYA LAKSHMI, T. M.; Raval, S. K.Horses (Equus caballus) belong to the family Equidae. Equine demography of India reveals 41% population distribution of horses and ponies and 59% of mules and donkeys. Total Indian equine population is 1.77 million (NRCE, 2011), which includes defined Indian horse breeds and Non-descript horses. Equine piroplasmosis caused by Theileria equi and Babesia caballi is an economically important hemoprotozoan disease of horses in tropical and subtropical parts of the worid. In 1976, the equine piroplasmosis was reported in an outbreak form in imported horses and recorded 50.1%) and 49.76% incidence in North-West India by CAT & Dot-ELISA. National serosurveillance analysis at NRCE has revealed 28.58%) of overall seroprevalence of T. equi from India. The latent infection is common in non-descript equids of India. These animals act as nucleus for maintaining as well as spreading the infection through vector ticks. Thus the diagnosis of sub-clinical infection is of more relevance as these animals can remain carriers to the T. equi parasite throughout their life span. These latently infected animals may exhibit low performance following physical, immunological or mental stress due to the flare-up of underlying parasitemia leading to clinical form of the disease condition. In the present study, total 248 horses were studied for T. equi and 182 serum samples of horses were screened for B. caballi. The overall prevalence rate of T. equi was 12.09% as detected by PCR technique. The overall prevalence rate of B. caballi was 0.55% as detected by cELISA. The breed-wise prevalence of T. equi infection observed was 23.81% in Nondescript breeds, 15.91%) in Kathiawari breeds and 11.40%) in Marwari breeds. The breed-wise prevalence was found to be statistically non-significant. The age-wise prevalence of T. equi infection observed was 33.33%) in foals, 18.52%) in yearlings and 13.42% in adults. The age-wise prevalence was found highly significant. The difference in sex-wise prevalence of T. equi infection observed were 22.86%) in males and 10.77% in females. The sex-wise prevalence was found to be highly significant. The health condition-wise prevalence of T. equi infection observed in horses were 11.85%) in good health condition, 21.82%) in fair health condition and 20%o in poor health condition%. The difference in health condition-wise prevalence was found be statistically nonsignificant (P>0.05). The diagnosis of piroplasmosis remains a challenge since the parasitemia; was often very low and there was fluctuation in the clinical symptoms shown by the affected horses. The PCR, which is a molecular technique is more sensitive than parasitological method detected an overall prevalence rate of 12.1%. The competitive ELISA, which is a monoclonal antibody based and highly sensitive and specific test detected 0.55% prevalence rate of 5. caballi in horses. Out of 248 thin blood smears examined by using Giemsa staining technique, only 5 were found to be positive indicating a prevalence rate of 2.02% and the same was found to have low sensitivity compared to PCR which detected 12.1% prevalence. Clinical information including vital signs were also recorded. Most of the horses positive for T. equi had anorexia, colic, rhinotaxis, respiratory distress, lameness. abortion, presence of ticks, fever or pyrexia, tachycardia, tachypnoea, pale or icteric mucous membrane, depression, edema of hind Hmbs, cohc, nasal discharge, ocular discharge, lameness, dyspnoea and previous history of treatment against piroplasms. In the present study, hemato-biochemical analysis of infected as well as healthy horses was performed to find out the severity of disease and probable outcome of diseases. In case of T. equi infection, TLC and Granulocytes were significantly increased (P<0.05) infected horses, while lymphocytes, Hb, MCH and PLT significantly decreased (P<0.01) compared to the healthy group of horses. A significant reduction (P<0.05) in RBC was also observed in infected group indicating anemia. A non-significant reduction (P>0.05) in MCHC and MCV as well as non-significant elevation (P>0.05) in PCV was also observed in infected group when compared to the healthy group. In case of T. equi infection, SGPT, SOOT, GOT, Total protein, Globulin, BUN, Creatinine and LDH were significantly increased (P<0.01) compared to the healthy group of horses. Non-significant elevation (P>0.05) of total bilirubin, unconjugated bilirubin and glucose as well as non-significant reduction (P>0.05) of conjugated bilirubin, albumin and A/G ratio was also observed in infected group. There was no significant alteration (P>0.05) in the levels of serum calcium and phosphorus when compared to the healthy group. In case of horses positive for T. equi, there was significant increase (P<0.05) in Cortisol and T4 level. But there was significant reduction (P<0.01) in infected horses when compared to the healthy group. The Cortisol level was significantly higher (P<0.05) in Kathiawari breeds compared to Marwari and Non-descript breeds. The Cortisol level of T. equi infected horses revealed significant reduction (P<0.05) in Kathiawari breeds whereas significant elevation (P<0.05) in Non-descript breeds. T3 concentration in Marwari breeds was found to be significantly decreased (P<0.01) whereas T4 level significantly increased in Non-descript breeds. There was no significant alteration in Cortisol, T3 and T4 level of T. equi infected horses of male and female groups when compared to the healthy group. Diagnosis of subclinical infections is important to prevent spread of equine piroplasmosis. Priority should be given for the development and validation of highly sensitive, simple and specific parasitological, serological or nucleic acid based diagnostic tool to distinguish infected and non-infected horses.