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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 Serological detection, Molecular characterization and Management of Chilli veinal mottle virus (ChiVMV) in chilli (Capsicum spp.)(DEPARTMENT OF PLANT PATHOLOGY B. A. COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE ANAND AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY ANAND, 2015) Arade Prashant C; Dr. R. N. PandeyChilli (Capsicum spp.), belongs to the family: Solanaceae, is a herbaceous or semi-woody annuals or perennial plants. Chilli veinal mottle virus (ChiVMV) causes huge yield loss in chilli crop worldwide. It belongs to family Potyviridae which contains viruses with ssRNA encapsidated in flexuous filamentous particles.ThesisItem Open Access Study on Current Good Agricultural Practices followed by Grapes Farmers in Sangli District of Maharashtra(AAU, Anand, 2015) BHARTI, AMRENDRA KUMAR; VAHONIYA, DILIP RGrapes are grown commercially in 89 countries worldwide. China stands first with 21% of total area under grape cultivation followed by Italy 15% & India 4.0%. India accounted for 120 thousand hectare area of grapes production in 2014-15.In terms of yield per hectare, India stands first with average fresh grape production of 2600.00 MT/ha. India has emerged as a prominent table grape growing country. India is also producing visible volumes of world standard commercial dried grapes and is gradually moving towards good wine making. Indian table grape exports industry worth 1200 crores and it has potential to grow further. The hardworking grape growers are aware of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and are well supported by research based information of practical importance. Untimely rains and cold waves have recently brought in uncertainty in productivity for grapes, due to increased risk of diseases, less fruitfulness and impaired berry development. The project was under taken, for Freshtrop Fruits Limited (FFL) with the objectives of (a) To study Agricultural practices followed in grapes farm, (b) To study current level of practices followed by framers, and (c) To study the current process followed by the company (Unit-2). A total of 150 contract farmers of freshtrop fruits limited where selected for study from 8 village of 4 Taluka of Sangali district of Maharashtra. The finding reveals that majority of respondents (40%) had 0.5 to 1.0 ha cultivable Area, 34% respondents had more than 1.0 ha of cultivable land and 26% respondents having below 0.5 ha cultivable Area. The study revealed several incidences of diseases in the grapes such as powdery mildew, Thrips, mile bug, and climatic variation such as Sun bum. Frost, Scorching etc create problems in production of grapes. According to the study, it was found that maximum (50%) farmers were growing Thompson variety of grapes, 17% farmers were using "Tas A ganesh" variety, 11 % farmers were using Colan 2 A variety, 8% farmers were using Manikchaman variety and 4% farmers were using Flame (brown) variety of grapes. The major Agricultural practices followed by grapes farmers were Land preparation, Spacing, Planting, Training and Pruning of Plants, Application of Manure and Fertilizers, Weeding, Supplementary Irrigation, Pests and their Management, Diseases and their Management, Quality Improvement. It was found that 86.0% respondents had availabled drinking water and hand wash facility, their from 14.0%) respondents had no such facility. It reveals that more of the farmers were aware of hygienic practices. It was found that 80% respondents were using Pump starter covered with tin box and locked in farm and remaining 20%» did not. About 77%) respondents were kept Growth regulators application record of all registers plots while 23 %o respondents did not. According to survey it was found that 86%) respondents had pesticide residue analysis report and 21% did not. 73%) of sample had not taken any type of loan from bank for grapes cultivation while 27% respondents have taken loan. The major process followed by Freshtrop Fruits Limited were Harvesting, Transportation, Grading, Packing, Pre cooling, cold storage, Container filling, sealing of container, Export, Dispatch to destination.According to the survey 79% respondents are satisfied with company policy while 21 % respondents did not.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 Effect of Antioxidants on Refrigeration (5°C) and Cryopreservation (-196°C) of Buffalo Semen(AAU, Anand, 2015) VARGHESE, ORIN; DHAMI, A. J.This study was undertaken on five sexually mature healthy buffalo bulls of Surti breed during the breeding season at Central Sperm Station of the College. The bulls were maintained in nearly identical nutritional and managemental conditions throughout the period of study and were regularly dewormed and vaccinated against FMD & HS. They were in regular, twice a week, semen collection schedule using AV. Eight ejaculates with >70% initial motility were studied from each of the 5 bulls at weekly interval. Soon after collection, the ejaculates were evaluated for routine physicomorphological attributes, including motility, viability, morphology (eosin-nigrosin), acrosomal integrity (Giemsa stain) and plasma membrane integrity (HOST 150 mOsm/L; an in vitro fertility test) through standard procedures and using phase contrast microscope. Each ejaculate was then divided into five equal aliquots, and extended at the concentration of 100 x10 power 6 spermatozoa ml-1 at 34°C with standard Tris citrate fructose egg yolk glycerol (TFYG) extender as control and TFYG having 2 additives - Cysteine HCl (0.5 & 1.0 mg/ml) and Taurine (4.0 & 6.0 mg/ml)- each at 2 levels to study their comparative efficacy for refrigeration (5°C up to 72 hrs) and cryopreservation (-196°C) of buffalo semen based on above 5 sperm quality parameters, including interrelationships of these parameters in fresh, refrigerated and cryopreserved semen. Small portions of the extended semen samples (2 ml from each aliquot) were transferred to a refrigerator for 5°C preservation and evaluated at 24 hrs interval up to 72 hrs for above quality parameters. The remaining portions of extended semen samples were used for filling the French mini straws on IS4 system (IMV, France). After gradual cooling over 60-90 minutes and equilibration for 4 hrs in cold handling cabinet, the straws were frozen in liquid nitrogen vapour using a programmable bio-freezer (Digitcool 5300, IMV, France). The straws of all 5 extenders were evaluated on dilution, at pre-freezing (after equilibration) and after 18-24 hrs of freezing (post-freeze stage) for the above quality parameters. Post-thaw incubation test (37 °C) was also performed to evaluate sperm survival after 1,2 and 3 hr of incubation. The mean values of ejaculate volume, density (1-4 score), sperm concentration, mass activity (0-5 score), individual sperm motility, live sperm, abnormal sperm, intact acrosome and HOS reactive sperms observed in fresh semen in Surti bulls were 3.04±0.11 ml, 3.06±0.08, 963.05±50.97 million/ml, 2.97±0.06, 75.00±0.69 %, 88.22 ±0.48 %, 4.40±0.26 %, 93.67±0.31 % and 89.17±0.57 %, respectively. The variation between bulls was significant (P<0.05) only for HOS test. With respect to cryopreservation, the overall mean percentages of progressively motile spermatozoa observed initially, after equilibration (pre-freeze stage) and after freezing (post-thaw stage) of buffalo semen split-diluted in TFYG extender, irrespective of additives, were 79.25±0.37, 70.15±0.43 and 41.72±0.53, respectively. The corresponding values for live spermatozoa were 84.80±0.32, 76.61±0.45, 48.05±0.55 %; morphologically abnormal spermatozoa 4.73±0.11, 5.94±0.12 and 8.23±0.13 %; intact acrosomes 92.40±0.18, 89.20±0.21 and 83.06±0.18 % and HOST reactive sperms 84.77±0.35, 75.25±0.46 and 46.42±0.56 %, respectively, all of which differed highly significantly (P<0.01) between stages of freezing process. The mean percentages of progressively motile spermatozoa observed soon on dilution (initial/0 hr) in control TFYG extender and in extender having cysteine 0.5 & 1 mg/ml and taurine 4 & 6 mg/ml were 75.12±0.76, 77.75±0.69, 80.51±0.65, 81.75±0.79 and 81.00±0.82, respectively. The corresponding values for live spermatozoa were 82.75±0.76, 84.27±0.66, 85.95±0.65, 86.17±0.64 and 84.80±0.82 %; intact acrosomes 92.85±0.34, 93.07±0.31, 91.00*2.30, 92.22±0.39 and 90.55±0.43 % and HOS reactive sperms 82.72±0.91, 83.40±0.70, 85.72±0.67, 86.25±0.64 and 85.62±0.86 %, respectively. The mean percentages of progressively motile spermatozoa observed after equilibration (at pre-freeze stage) in control TFYG and TFYG with cysteine 0.5 & 1 mg/ml and taurine 4 & 6 mg/ml were 65.37±0.84, 68.37±0.81, 72.62±0.69, 73.25±0.81 and 71.12±1.02; and after freezing-thawing 38.37±0.95, 39.50±0.80, 46.50±0.72, 50.00±0.62 and 34.25±0.71, respectively. The corresponding values of live spermatozoa observed at pre-freeze stage in control TFYG and in TFYG with cysteine 0.5 & 1 mg/ml and taurine 4 & 6 mg/ml were 72.75±0.99, 70.62±0.81, 78.97±0.93, 79.37±0.88 and 76.32±1.14 %; and after freezing-thawing 44.82±1.02, 46.37±0.99, 52.97±0.79, 55.02±0.80 and 41.07±0.99 %, respectively. The mean percentages of morphologically abnormal spermatozoa observed at pre-freeze stage in control TFYG diluent and in TFYG with cysteine 0.5 & 1 mg/ml and taurine 4 & 6 mg/ml were 6.35±0.27, 5.73±0.28, 5.45±0.25, 5.80±0.28 and 6.38±0.29; and after freezing-thawing 9.10±0.22, 8.15±0.26, 7.10±0.26, 7.90±0.29 and 8.90±0.31 %, respectively. The overall mean values of sperms with head, midpiece and tail abnormalities recorded initially were 1.19±0.04, 1.54±0.04 and 2.01±0.08 %, respectively. The corresponding values noted after equilibration (pre-freeze stage) of extended semen were 1.33±0.04, 1.99±0.05 and 2.70±0.09 %, and after freezing (postthaw stage) 1.62±0.04,2.58±0.06 and 4.03±0.09 %, respectively. The mean percentages of spermatozoa with intact acrosomes found at pre-freeze stage in control TFYG and in TFYG with cysteine 0.5 & 1 mg/ml and taurine 4 & 6 mg/ml were 89.70±0.39, 90.58±0.34, 90.90±0.35, 88.53±0.46 and 86.28±0.45; and after freezing-thawing 82.43±0.32, 84.40±0.18, 85.73±0.18, 82.75±0.30 and 79.98±0.35 %, respectively. The overall mean percentages of sperms with swollen, ruffled, detached and denuded acrosome, and total damaged acrosomes recorded initially were 3.18±0.08, 2.30±0.06, 1.36±0.04, 0.76±0.04 and 7.58±0.18 %, respectively. The corresponding values noted after equilibration (pre-freeze stage) of extended semen were 4.55±0.09, 3.30±0.08, 1.85±0.05, 1.11±0.04 and 10.80±0.21 %, and after freezing (post-thaw stage) were 6.73±0.07, 5.25±0.07, 2.99±0.06, 1.94±0.05 and 16.94±0.18 %, respectively. The values of all the traits differed highly significantly (P < 0.01) between stages/periods of cryopreservation process. The mean percentages of spermatozoa with biochemically active intact plasma membrane recorded at pre-freeze stage in control TFYG extender and in TFYG with cysteine 0.5 & 1 mg/ml and taurine 4 & 6 mg/ml 70.82±0.92, 74.17±0.93, 78.12±0.79, 78.08±0.95 and 75.03±1.08; and after freezing-thawing 42.52±1.04, 45.10±1.04, 51.62±0.82, 53.73±0.69 and 39.10±0.91 %, respectively. The mean percentages of motile spermatozoa observed immediately after thav^ng (0 hr), and after 1, 2 and 3 hrs of post-thaw incubation at 37°C in water bath were 41.52±0.57, 27.88±0.58, 15.05±0.58 and 5.47±0.35 (P<0.01), respectively. The mean percentages of progressively motile spermatozoa observed in control TFYG with cysteine 0.5 mg/ml and 1 mg/ml and taurine 4 mg/ml and 6 mg/ml after 1 hr of post-thaw incubation were 24.13±0.88, 27.18±1.02, 32.75±0.82, 36.13±0.92 and 19.25±0.88; after 2 hrs of incubation 12.38±0.86, 14.38±0.84, 18.88±0.70, 21.50±0.88 and 8.13±0.64 %, and after 3 hrs of incubation 3.25±0.58, 4.63±0.58, 8.88±0.66, 10.00±0.65 and 0.63±0.2 %, respectively. Significantly higher progressive motility, better viability and post-thaw survival, acrosome integrity and HOS reactivity with fewer abnormalities of sperm/acrosome were observed at all stages of cryopreservation of buffalo semen extended with TFYG extender having taurine 4 mg/ml and cysteine 1 mg/ml than cysteine 0.5 mg/ml and control TFYG, while taurine 6 mg/ml in TFYG showed comparatively inferior results towards cryopreservability of buffalo semen may be due to its hypertonicity and osmotoxic effect induced by this higher level. As regards to refrigeration preservation, the overall mean percentages of progressively motile spermatozoa observed on dilution in TFYG based extender at (0- hr), and after 24, 48 and 72 hrs of refrigeration preservation of split-diluted semen samples were 79.22±0.37, 66.75±0.40, 58.02±0.43 and 50.20±0.49 respectively. The corresponding values for live spermatozoa were 84.79±0.31, 72.66±0.45, 63.53±0.48 and 55.99±0.51 %; abnormal sperms 5.17±0.46, 5.79±0.11, 7.05±0.12 and 8.56±0.13 %; intact acrosome 91.94±0.48, 89.85±0.18, 86.80±0.18 and 83.55±0.22 %, and HOST reactive sperm were 84.47±0.35, 72.00±0.46, 62.50±0.48 and 54.95±0.50%, respectively. All these traits differed highly significantly (P<0.01) between refrigeration intervals with progressive decline in sperm quality with increasing storage time. The mean percentages of progressively motile spermatozoa observed after 24 hrs of refrigeration storage in control TFYG extender and in extender having cysteine 0.5 & 1 mg/ml and taurine 4 & 6 mg/ml were 62.37±0.66, 65.37±0.76, 70.00±0.69, 69.00 ±0.82 and 67.00±1.02, respectively. The corresponding live spermatozoa were 82.75 ±0.76, 84.27±0.66, 85.95±0.65, 86.17±0.64 and 84.80±0.82; abnormal sperms 68.60± 0.77, 72.05±0.92, 75.87±0.69, 75.05±0.93 and 71.75±1.17; intact acrosomes 89.75 ±0.31, 90.92±0.25, 91.72±0.32, 89.42±0.39 and 87.45±0.34; and HOS reactive sperms 67.35±0.70, 71.17±0.90, 75.30±0.93,74.37±1.00 and 71.80±1.13 %, respectively. The mean percentages of progressively motile spermatozoa observed after 72 hrs of refrigeration storage in control TFYG extender and in extender having cysteine 0.5 & 1 mg/ml and taurine 4 & 6 mg/ml vy^ere 44.57±0.92, 48.87±0.93, 55.00±0.85, 55.00± 0.82 and 47.62±0.91, respectively. The corresponding values for live spermatozoa were 50.47±1.03, 54.85±1.05, 60.50±0.85, 60.20±0.93 and 53.95±1.01; abnormal sperms 9.28±0.29, 8.30±0.25, 7.78±0.26, 8.23±0.31 and 9.23±0.24; intact acrosomes 83.10± 0.33, 85.10±0.29, 86.32±0.31, 82.50±0.47 and 79.75±0.39; and HOS reactive sperms 49.67±0.94, 53.40±0.94, 59.85±1.01, 59.00±0.82 and 52.77±0.99 %, respectively. Significantly higher progressive sperm motility, better viability, acrosome integrity and HOS reactivity with lesser sperm/acrosome abnormalities of buffalo spermatozoa were observed at all intervals of refrigeration storage (0-72 hrs) in semen diluted with standard TFYG extender having cysteine HCl 1 mg/ml or taurine 4 mg/ml as additive than with 0.5 mg/ml cysteine and 6 mg/ml taurine and both the additives maintained significantly better sperm quality when compared with non-added control TFYG diluents. Taurine 6 mg/ml at times revealed insignificant differences with control TFYG for some sperm parameters, particularly intact acrosome which was significantly depressed. Thus in general, TFYG with cysteine HCl 1.0 mg/ml or taurine 4.0 mg/ml has been considered as a better additive for refrigeration preservation, while cysteine HCl 1 mg/ml and 0.5 mg/ml was better for cryopreservation, while taurine at 6 mg/ml level was found to be detrimental/toxic to buffalo sperm particularly at post-thaw stage. Hence, standard TFYG diluent with cysteine HCl 1.0 mg/ml or taurine 4.0 mg/ml can be recommended as a better option for improved refrigeration and cryopreservation of buffalo semen. However, actual fertility trials are required to substantiate the present findings. Some of the interrelationships between sperm motility, viability, morphology, intact acrosome and plasma membrane integrity in fresh, refrigerated and cryopreserved buffalo semen were observed to be significant (P<0.01), which proved that initial motility and membrane integrity can be used as predicative measures in routine semen evaluation.ThesisItem Open Access SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF HOOF DISORDERS IN GOATS(AAU, Anand, 2015) MEHTA, TEJASKUMAR ARUN; PATIL, D. B.The present study in goats was conducted in clinical cases reported at Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, Anand, Institutional farms, villages surveyed around Anand, goat camps and Panjrapoles in and around Anand. to record the incidence of hoof disorders and to standardize treatment protocol for management of various hoof disorders. The functional hoof trimming was carried out in all the affected animals. Random samples of hoof shavings and blood for laboratory estimation were collected. The information derived from surveillance using an evolved proforma was analyzed and presented. A total of 6000 goats were screened during the survey, of which 1160 had different foot lesions. The foot lesions encountered with incidence were overgrown hoof 420 (36.20%), white line separation 295 (25.43%), sole ulcer 190 (16.37), sole hemorrhage 85 (7.32%), foreign body in sole 31 (2.67%), interdigital hyperplasia 29 (2.5%), laminitis 22 (1.89%), maggot wound 19 (1.63%), hoof avulsion 17 (1.46%), vertical fissure 25 (2.15%), dependent joint and tendon affections 16 (1.37%) and pedal bone dislocation 01 (0.09%). Age wise incidence of hoof lesions was lowest (9.48%) in young animals between 0 to 2 year and higher (45.51%) in the adult animals above 6 years of age. The Housing was observed to be the main factor associated with the occurrence of hoof disorders in goats. The survey about predisposing factors of the hoof disorders during anamnesis revealed that out of 1160 affected animals, 820/1160 (70.68%) were maintained on kachha floor with poor hygienic condition and the remaining (340/1160, 29.31 %) on pakka floor with hygienic conditions indicating higher incidence on kachha floor compared to goats maintained on pakka floor. The incidence of hoof disorders was more during the wet season (63.01%) compared to dry season (36.98 %). The maximum hoof lesions were observed in hind limbs (729; 62.84%) with greater involvement of outer claw (432; 59.25%), however in fore-limbs (431; 37.15%) the involvement of inner claw (290; 67.28%) was more. A survey about feeding practices revealed it to be highly variable and diverse. The farmers had no standard feeding practices and many allowed ad lib grazing and also access to household waste food along with the green and concentrate. It was difficult to correlate the effect of feeding practices and hoof affection under present scenario of goat rearing in animals surveyed. Manual hoof trimming was done in 230 goats with 100 in standing position and 130 in lateral recumbency while 22 goats required sedation for hoof trimming. The estimations of blood biochemical parameters (Total Protein, Albumin, Globulin, Ca, P, Mg, Na, K) and minerals (Zn, Cu, Mn, Ca, P) in hoof shavings did not reveal any significant difference between different animals. The functional hoof trimming in 230 animals facilitated detection of subclinical laminitic lesions and reduced the progression of disease. The use of proper hoof trimming instruments facilitated comfortable functional hoof trimming with less manpower and time.ThesisItem Open Access CLINICAL STUDIES ON SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF OPHTHALMIC AFFECTIONS IN EQUINES(AAU, Anand, 2015) KHATRI, JAVED MOHAMMEDHANIF; PARIKH, P. V.In the present study, a retrospective analysis of the ophthahnic records in equines at the Department of Surgery was done from 2013- 2015 to find out the incidence, distribution and pattern of ocular affections along with clinical outcome of various therapeutic and surgical management undertaken. A total of 196 horses with different clinical conditions were reported from August-2013 to February-2015. Out of these, 56 horses were reported to have ocular affections with overall incidence of 28.57%. Breed wise occurrence of ophthalmic affections revealed maximum incidence in Marvvadi (30%) followed by crossbred (27%), Kathiawadi (25%) and Sindhi (18%). Sex wise distribution indicated that more males (73%i) were affected than females (27%). Out of 56 horses, the overall incidence of ocular setariasis (61.1!%. n=33) was highest followed by affections of eye lid (11.11%, n=6), cornea (07.40%, n=4), uvea (07.40%, n=4), conjunctiva (05.55%, n=3), anterior chamber (05.55%), n=3) and globe (3.70%, n=2). The cases of ocular affections were diagnosed on the basis of detailed clinical and ophthalmologic examinations. Clinical entities like corneal opacity, corneal oedema, coi-neal ulcers, chemo.sis and uveitis (normal uveitis and equine recurrent uveitis) were treated by appropriate therapeutic regimens and others like equine eyeworm, sarcoids, eyelid lacerations and ocular neoplasia were subjected to appropriate surgical manoeuvres. The standard medical management for conditions like chemosis, corneal ulcers, hyphema was effective, but in equine recurrent uveitis, ocular symptoms revealed improvement in cases presented early, but in chronic cases, the therapy was not successful. In ocular setariasis, B-mode ultrasonography using linear probe (10- l8MHz) was found appropriate diagnostic modality to visualize setarial worm movement in anterior chamber as well as vitreous. Paracentesis of anterior chamber for removal of intraocular parasite through a modified clear corneal stab incision at the limbal margins using 2.8 mm pointed tip 45° angled keratome was found more effective than BP blade incision of cornea.ThesisItem Open Access RELATIVE EFFICACIES OF DIFFERENCES HORMONAL THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES IN REPEAT BREEDING DAIRY ANIMALS(AAU, Anand, 2015) PARMAR, CHIRAGKUMAR PRATAPSINH; PATEL, D. M.This study was carried out in villages of Amul as well as Panchamrut milk shed areas of Gujarat on 80 repeat breeding animals comprising 40 each cows and buffaloes, and 10 each normal cyclic cows and buffaloes (exhibiting oestrus within 90 days postpartum). The objectives were to evaluate and compare the therapeutic efficacy of various hormonal approaches, viz., Ovsynch protocol, Mid cycle PGFaa, AI+hCG inj. and Progesterone inj. 5th day post-AI, and to monitor the influence of these therapies on plasma progesterone, biochemical and minerals profiles on different days of treatment in cows and buffaloes. Ten repeat breeding cows and buffaloes each with average body condition score (BCS) of 2.75 to 3.50, without visible and palpable genital abnormalities were treated initially once with SC injection of ivermection 100 mg, IM injection of 3.0 g enrofloxacin to check invisible genital infection, IM injection of inorganic phosphorus and multivitamins AD3E. Owners of the animals were supplied with multimineral bolus for PC use, one bolus on alternate day for four times. In Ovsynch protocol ten each repeat breeding cows and buffaloes were administered with IM inj. of Buserelin acetate 10 µg on day 0, inj. Cloprostenol 500 µg on day 7, and second inj. of Buserelin acetate 10 µg was given IM on day 9, followed by FTAI twice 0 and 24 hrs later. The conception rates obtained in cows at induced estrus, second estrus, third estrus and overall were 50.00 (5/10), 20.00 (1/5), 25.00 (1/4) and 70.00 (7/10) per cent, respectively. The corresponding values in buffaloes were 40.00 (4/10), 33.33 (2/6), 0.00 (0/4) and 60.00 (6/10). The mean intervals from PGFα injection to induced estrus in Ovsynch treated cows and buffaloes were 81.17±0.63 and 78.73±1.10 hrs, respectively, with cent per cent estrus response.ThesisItem Open Access HAEMATOLOGICAL, BIOCHEMICAL AND ENDOCRINE PARAMETERS AT DIFFERENT STAGES OF LACTATION IN INDIGENOUS AND CROSSBRED CATTLE(AAU, Anand, 2015) MADHIRA, SURYA PRAKASH; ARYA, JHAMMAN SINGHThe study titled "Haematological, Biochemical and Endocrine Parameters at different stages of Lactation in Indigenous and Crossbred Cattle" was undertaken in Gir, Kankrej and Crossbred cattle, at different stages of lactation and milking phases within the stages, with the objective to determine and compare the differences for (i) hematological parameters viz. Haemoglobin (Hb), Pack cell volume (PCV), Total erythrocyte Count (TEC), Total Leucocyte count (TLC), Differential Leucocyte count (DLC) (ii) biochemical parameters viz. Blood glucose. Plasma total protein, albumin, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, urea, uric acid, creatinine, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and electrolytes: sodium and potassium.(iii) enzymes viz. alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase, (iv) Hormonal levels of, T3, T4, Cortisol, Insulin and Prolactin, and (v) relationship of these parameters with the milk production. The blood samples were collected from the three breeds (n=6) for each sampling stage, at different stages of lactation, before and after milking, at the time of morning milking. In Gir cattle, the total erythrocyte Count (TEC-10 power 6 /cmm) at different stages lactation ranged between 6.78±0.10 (stage-I) and 7.93±0.03 in (stage-Ill), while in Kankrej it ranged between 6.35±0.14 (stage-I) and 7.45±0.31 in (stage-Ill), and in crossbred cattle it ranged from 6.15±0.p6 (stage-Ill) to 7.22±0.07in (stage-I).The total erythrocyte count differed significantly (P<0.05) among the breeds. The total erythrocyte count increased with the progress of lactation in Gir and Kankrej cattle while it showed a decreasing trend in the crossbred cattle. The total erythrocyte count differed significantly (P<0.05) among the stages of lactation. In Gir cattle, the Haemoglobin (Hb-g/dl) at different stages of lactation ranged between 10.93±0.05 (stage-Ill) and 12.38±0.11 in (stage-I), while in Kankrej it ranged between 12.25±0.28 (stage-Ill) and 13.78±0.12 (stage-II) and in crossbred cattle it ranged between 13.31±0.17 (stage-I) and 11.08±0.31 in (stage-II).The Haemoglobin differed significantly (P<0.05) among the breeds with Gir cattle reporting highest values. The mean haemoglobin decreased with the progress of lactation in Gir cattle while no such clear trend was observed in the crossbred and Kankrej cattle. In Gir cattle, the Packed cell volume (PCV-%) at different stages of lactation ranged between 39.66±0.06 (stage-III) and 41.23±0.29 in (stage-I), while in Kankrej it ranged between 39.00±0.26 (stage-III) and 42.80±0.33 (stage-I), and in crossbred cattle it ranged between 39.44±0.44 (stage-III) and 46.50±0.53 (stage-I).The Pack cell volume differed significantly among the breeds and among the stages. The mean Pack cell volume decreased with the progress of lactation in all the three breeds under the study. In Gir cattle, MCV, MCH and MCHC at different stages of lactation ranged from: MCV-50.52±0.20 (stage-III) to 58.15±0.84 (stage-I), MCH- 15.28±0.10 (stage-III) to 17.35±0.20 (stage-I) and MCHC from 28.20±0.37 (stage-II) to 30.17±0.08 (stage-I). In Kankrej cattle it ranged from: MCV-49.86±0.35 (stage-III) to 59.38±0.47 (stage-I), MCH- 16.18±0.34 (stage-Ill) to 18.89±0.44 (stage-I) MCHC ranged from 27.45±0.47 (stage-Ill) to 30.83±0.18 (stage-I). In crossbred cattle it ranged from: MCV-54.34±0.39 (stage-Ill) to 59.95±0.61 (stage-I) MCH-15.98±0.31 (stage-Ill) to 18.52±0.13 (stage-I) and MCHC ranged from 27.51±0.39 (stage-II) to 29.95±0.28 (stage-I).The Mean Corpuscular Volume, Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin decreased with the progress of lactation, in all the three breeds under the study, while the Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin Concentration showed similar trend in Gir cattle only. The MCV differed significantly (P<0.05) among the breeds and stages of lactation. The MCHC differed non significantly (P<0.05) among the breeds and among the stages. In Gir cattle, the Total leucocyte count (TLC-10 power 3/cmm) at different stages of lactation ranged from 8.38±0.11 (stage-II) to 8.83±0.03 (stage-Ill), while in Kankrej it ranged from 8.49±0.12 (stage-I) to 9.16±0.07 (stage-II) and in crossbred cattle it ranged from 8.59±0.198 (stage-I) to 9.18±0.06 (stage-II). The total leucocyte count differed significantly (P<0.05) among the breeds and also among the stages. In Gir cattle, the total lymphocyte count (%) ranged between 51.00±0.73 (stage-I) and 62.50±0.42 in (stage-Ill), while in Kankrej it ranged between 50.33±0.80 (stage-I) and 62.00±0.57 in (stage-Ill), and in crossbred cattle it ranged between 50.16±0.87 (stage-I) and 61.50±0.76 in (stage-Ill).The total lymphocyte count differed significantly (P<0.05) among the breeds and the stages. In Gir cattle, the total monocyte count (%) ranged between 1.66±0.21 (stage-Ill) and 2.50±0.40 (stage-II) while in Kankrej between 2.00±0.25 (stage-I) and 3.00±0.36 in (stage-II) and in crossbred cattle between 1.83±0.40 (stage-Ill) and 3.00±0.36 in (stage-Ill). A nonsignificant variation was observed in the total monocyte count between the breeds and the milking stages. In Gir cattle, the neutrophils count (%) count ranged between 30.33±1.05 (stage-Ill) and 39.00±0.77 (stage-II) while in Kankrej between 29.83±0.47 (stage-I) to 39.50±0.47 (stage-Ill) and in crossbred cattle from 29. 66±0.42 (stage-Ill) to 40.33±0.60 in (stage-I). A non-significant variation was observed in the total neutrophil count while it differed significantly (P<0.05) among the stages. In Gir cattle, the eosinophil count (%) count ranged between 4.50±0.34 (stage-Ill) and 6.83±0.30 (stage-II) while in Kankrej between 5.33±0.49 (stage-I) and 7.00±0.25 in (stage-II) and in crossbred cattle from 4.66±0.61 (stage-I) to 6.83±0.30 in (stage-Ill).The Eosinophil count differed significantly (P<0.05) among the breeds and the stages. In Gir cattle the basophil count (%) ranged between 0.16±0.16 (stage- Ill) and 0.33±0.21in (stage-I), while in Kankrej between 0.33±0.21 (stage-I) and 0.66±0.21 (stage-II) and in crossbred cattle from 0.33±0.21 (stage-II) to 0.66±0.21 (stage-Ill). A non-significant variation was observed in the total basophil count between the breeds and stages. In Gir cattle, the Plasma Glucose (mg/dl) at different stages of lactation ranged between 56.79±0.28 (stage-I) to 60.38±0.45 (stage-Ill), while in Kankrej from 57.33±0.47 (stage-I) to 61.33±0.33 in (stage-Ill) and in crossbred cattle from 81.65±0.75 (stage-I) to 91.51±0.72 (stage-Ill).The plasma glucose differed significantly (P<0.05) among the stages of lactation and breeds. In Gir cattle, the Plasma Total protein (g/dl) at different stages of lactation ranged between 6.31±0.05 (stage-I) and 7.20±0.11 in (stage-I), while in Kankrej cattle from 6.39±0.15 (stage-II) to 7.40±0.11 in (stage-I) and, in crossbred cattle from 8.35±0.06 (stage-I^ to 9.04±0.11 (stage-III).The plasma total protein differed significantly (P<0.05) among the breeds and the stages. In Gir cattle, the Plasma Albumin (g/dl) at different stages of lactation ranged between 3.48±0.07 (stage-Ill) and 3.97±0.06 in (stage-I), while in Kankrej cattle from 3.90±0.06 (stage-I) to 4.25±0.18 in (stage-I) and in crossbred cattle from 4.30±0.07 (stage-I) to 5.11±0.03 (stage-Ill).The plasma albumin differed significantly (P<0.05) among the breeds, but did not differ among the stages of lactation. In Gir cattle, the Plasma Total Cholesterol (mg/dl) at different stages of lactation ranged between 172.71±0.06 (stage-I) to 195.40±1.74 (stage-Ill), while in Kankrej from 173.76±1.13 (stage-I) to 195.97±2.34 in (stage-Ill) and in crossbred cattle from 180.53±2.78 (stage-I) to 190.20±1.02 in (stage-Ill). Significant (P<0.05) breed and effect of stages of lactation was observed. In Gir cattle, the Plasma High density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (mg/dl) at different stages of lactation ranged between 117.66±0.74 (stage-I) and 133.00±2.35 in (stage-Ill), while in Kankrej it ranged from 116.42±0.39 (stage-I) to 132.56±0.45 (stage-Ill) and in crossbred cattle from 118.87±0.75 (stage-I) to 129.25±0.61 (stage-III).A significant (P<0.05) difference was observed among the breeds and lactation stages. In Gir cattle, the Plasma Triglycerides (mg/dl) at different stages of lactation ranged between 15.98±0.47 (stage-I) to 17.06±0.41 (stage-I), while in Kankrej from 16.14±0.31 (stage-I) to 17.86±0.26 in (stage-I) and in crossbred cattle from 27.99±0.70 (stage-I) to 44.61±1.31 in (stage-III).Breed differences and lactation stage differences were significant. In Gir cattle, the Plasma Urea (mg/dl) at different stages of lactation ranged between 19.43±0.62 (stage-Ill) and 20.31±0.53 in (stage-I), while in Kankrej from 19.52±0.24 (stage-II) to 20.31±0.23 (stage-Ill) and in crossbred cattle it ranged from 16.65±0.49 (stage-I) to 21.09±0.76 in (stage-III).The Plasma Urea differed significantly (P<0.05) among breeds and stages of lactation. In Gir cattle, the Plasma Creatinine (mg/dl) at different stages of lactation ranged between 0.74±0.01 (stage-I) and 0.92±0.01 in (stage-Ill), while in Kankrej from 0.73±0.07 (stage-II) to 0.91±0.01 (stage-Ill) and in crossbred cattle from 0.83±0.01 (stage-I) to 0.95±0.02 (stage-Ill). The values of plasma creatinine varied significantly (P<0.05) among the breeds an'd stages of lactation. In Gir cattle, the Plasma Uric acid (mg/dl) at different stages of lactation ranged between 1.57±0.01 (stage-II) and 1.60±0.01 (stage-Ill), while in Kankrej from 1.60±0.01 (stage-II) to 1.63±0.01 (stage-Ill) and in crossbred cattle it ranged betweenl. 57±0.01 (stage-Ill) and 1.69±0.01 (stage-I).Breed and stages of lactation differences were significant (P<0.05). In Gir cattle, the Plasma Calcium (mg/dl) at different stages of lactation ranged between 8.77±0.07 (stage-I) and 9.41±0.12 (stage- Ill), while in Kankrej from 8.73±0.14 (stage-I) to 9.41±0.10 (stage-Ill) and in crossbred cattle from 9.94±0.10 (stage-I) to 10.63±0.06 (stage-II). Significant (P<0.05) breed differences and differences in stages of lactation were observed. In Gir cattle, the Plasma Inorganic Phosphorus (mg/dl) at different stages of lactation ranged between 4.68±0.04 (stage-I) and 6.22±0.08 in (stage-Ill), while in Kankrej from 4.76±0.08 (stage-I) to 6.18±0.09 in (stage-Ill) and in crossbred cattle from 5.23±0.03 (stage-I) to 5.74±0.21 in (stage-II). A non-significant difference was observed among the breeds, while it differed significantly (P<0.05) among the stages. In Gir cattle, the Plasma Magnesium (mg/dl) at different stages of lactation ranged between 3.04±0.05 (stage-I) and 3.87±0.01 in (stage-Ill), while in Kankrej from 3.01±0.05 (stage-I) to 3.41±0.09 in (stage-I) and in crossbred cattle from 3.18±0.06 (stage-Ill) to 3.49±0.04 (stage-II). Significant (P<0.05) effect of the breeds and lactation stages was observed. In Gir cattle, the Plasma Sodium (mEq/L) at different stages of lactation ranged between 158.45±2.66 (stage-I) to 170.91±1.66 in (stage-Ill), while in Kankrej from 162.32±3.29 (stage-I) to 173.11±0.57 in (stage-Ill) and in crossbred cattle from 166.87±2.11 (stage-I) to 180.53±1.60 in (stage-II).Breed and effect of lactation stages was significant (P<0.05). In Gir cattle, the Plasma Potassium (mEq/L) at different stages of lactation ranged between 3.37±0.08 (stage-Ill) to 4.57±0.17 (stage-I), while in Kankrej from 3.39±0.07 (stage-Ill) to 4.59±0.20 (stage-I) and in crossbred cattle from 4.29±0.03 (stage-1) to 4.75±0.23 in (stage-I). Breed and lactation stages differences were significant (P<0.05). In Gir cattle, the Plasma Aspartate Aminotransferase (lU/ml) at different stages of lactation ranged between 68.40±2.57 (stage-Ill) to 89.79±1.05 in (stage-II) while in Kankrej from 67.83±2.32 (stage-Ill) to 89.42±1.47 in (stage-II) and in crossbred cattle from 78.04±0.81 (stage-Ill) to 88.19±0.95 in (stage-I). Breed and lactation stages differences were significant (P<0.05).In Gir cattle, the Plasma Alanine Aminotransferase (lU/ml) at different stages of lactation ranged between 39.23±0.82 (stage-I) to 45.19±1.21 (stage-Ill), while in Kankrej from 38.88±0.86 (stage-I) to 43.85±1.33 in (stage-I) and in crossbred cattle from 42.04±0.67 (stage-I) to 44.55±0.48 (stage-I). Breed differences and lactation stages effects were significant (P<0.05).In Gir cattle, the Plasma Alkaline Phosphatase (AKP-IU/ml) at different stages of lactation ranged between 152.93±4.10 (stage-I) and 210.97±3.56 in (stage- Ill), while in Kankrej from 152.74±3.10 (stage-I) to 210.21±3.63 (stage-Ill) and in crossbred cattle from 149.01±1.04 (stage-I) to 186.19±4.21 (stage-III).The Plasma Alkaline Phosphatase activity differed significantly (P<0.05) among the breeds and stages of lactation. In Gir cattle, the Plasma Acid Phosphatase (ACP-IU/ml) at different stages of lactation ranged between 83.85±1.39 (stage-I) and 104.42±1.27 in (stage-Ill), while in Kankrej from 83.83±0.76 (stage-I) to 103.23±0.62 (stage-Ill) and in crossbred cattle from 85.09±1.55 (stage-I) to 105.52±1.11 in (stage-III).The Plasma Acid Phosphatase activity did not differ significantly among the breeds but differed significantly (P<0.05) among the stages. In Gir cattle, the Plasma Lactate Dehydrogenase at different stages of lactation ranged from 917.87±22.84 (stage-II) and 956.54±28.08in(stage-I), while .in Kahkrej from 880.25±20.30 (stage-II) to 949.87±25.64 (stage-I) and in crossbred cattle from 973.41±7.98 (stage-Ill) to 1006.85±4.01 in (stage-II).The Plasma Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH-IU/ml) activity differed significantly (P<0.05) among the breeds and among the stages of lactation. In Gir cattle, the Plasma Triiodothyronine (T3-ng/ml) at different stages of lactation ranged between 1.54±0.05 and 1.94±0.04, while in Kankrej from 2.02±0.03 (stage-I) to 2.27±0.n in (stage-Ill) and in crossbred cattle from 1.58±0.04 (stage-I) to 1.93±0.02 in (stage-Ill). The Plasma Tri iodo thyronine differed significantly (P<0.05) among the breeds and amongst the stages of lactation. In Gir cattle, the Plasma Thyroxine (T4-ng/ml) at different stages of lactation ranged between 44.14±6.12 (stage-I) and 80.24±2.43 in (stage-Ill), while in Kankrej cattle from 50.21±5.21 (stage-I) to 81.23±3.48 (stage-Ill) and in crossbred cattle from 48.46±6.18 (stage-I) to 86.68±2.52 (stage-Ill). A non-significant variation in the Plasma Thyroxine levels was observed among the breeds, but it differed significantly (P<0.05) among the stages of lactation. In Gir cattle, the plasma insulin (μIU/ml) at different stages of lactation ranged between 8.89±0.69 (stage-Ill) and 16.51±0.48 in (stage-II), while in Kankrej cattle from 8.77±0.29 (stage-I) to 12.46±0.43(stage-I) and in crossbred cattle from 10.30±0.57 (stage-Ill) to 14.06±0.80 (stage-II). The Plasma Insulin levels differed significantly (P<0.05) among the breeds and stages of lactation. In Gir cattle, the plasma Cortisol (ng/ml) at different stages of lactation ranged between 5.00±0.38 (stage-I) and 7.51±0.35 in (stage-II), while in Kankrej from 5.57±0.16 (stage-I) to 7.43±0.19 in (stage-Ill) and in crossbred cattle from 7.11±0.10 (stage-I) to 9.36±0.18 (stage-I).The Plasma Cortisol (ng/ml) levels differed significantly (P<0.05) among the breeds and the stages. In Gir Cattle, the plasma prolactin (ng/ml) levels at different stages of lactation ranged between 35.92±1.56 (stage-II) and 49.04±1.24 (stage-I), while in Kankrej cattle, between 30.20 ±0.88 (stage-Ill) and 49.08 ± 1.56 (stage-I) and in Crossbred cattle, between 26.00± 1.07 (stage-II) and 35.44 ± 1.54 (stage-I).The plasma prolactin level differed significantly (P<0.05) among the breeds and the stages of lactation. The values in the milking phases differed significantly (P<0.05). Milk yield was found to be related with TEC, Hb, MCHC, TLC, neutrophil and eosinophil count, and in biochemical parameters, calcium, magnesium, HDL, creatinine, LDH, albumin, uric acid. The hormones, insulin, T3 and T4 and Cortisol were also related with milk yield.ThesisItem Open Access Effect of incorporation of dried date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) leaves in total mixed ration for adult sheep(AAU, Anand, 2015) PARMAR, VARUNKUMAR NARENDRABHAI; PATEL, D. C.India is a country of small and marginal farmers, who can only keep one or two heads of livestock, they mostly keep their livestock on agricultural by products, without any concentrate or green fodder. So in country like ours the delineation of nutritive values of cheap non-conventional feed stuffs like date palm leaves should be done. The study was conducted to evaluate the effect of incorporation of dried and green date palm {Phoenix dactylifera) leaves in total mixed ration (TMR) comprising of 30:70 concentrates: Jowar hay as maintenance ration of adult Marwari sheep. Based on the in vitro studies and availability of air-dried date palm leaves (ADPL) and green date palm leaves (GDPL), the date palm leaves replaced 40% of jowar hay in total mixed ration. Twenty-one adult Marwari sheep of similar body weight and age were randomly allotted to three treatments, seven in each. Experimental animals were individually fed for 15 days under preliminary and 60 days under experimental period. The energy and protein requirements of sheep were met as per ICAR (1998) standards. The treatments were, TMR without Date palm leaves (T1); TMR with ADPL replacing 40% of jowar hay (T2) and TMR with GDPL replacing 40% of jowar hay on dry matter equivalent basis (T3). The ADPL and GDPL, respectively contained 7.58 and 7.45% CP, 2.97 and 3.09% EE, 38.12 and 37.87% CF, 42.81 and 43.26% NFE, 8.52 and 8.33% TA, 91.48 and 91.67% OM, 63.66 and 64.07% NDF, 41.97 and 42.15% ADF, 34.50 and 34.58% Cellulose, 21.69 and 21.92% Hemicellulose, 8.6 and 7.9% lignin, 0.9 and 0.7% calcium and 0.1 and 0.1 % Phosphorus in both on dry matter basis. The results of in vitro studies viz. pH, Total gas production (TGP), in-vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) and in-vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD) after 24 and 48 hours of incubation revealed, no significant difference between treatments. The values of TGP, IVDMD and IVOMD indicating that date palm leaves can replace up to 80% jowar hay in TMR. The average Dry matter intake (DMI) of sheep in T1, T2, and T3 groups during digestion trial was 1080.67 ± 43.91, 1093.80 ± 43.55 and 1057.32 ± 42.45 g/day; 3.28 ± 0.05, 3.31 ± 0.05 and 3.30 ± 0.05 kg/100kg BW and 78.40 ± 0.14, 79.09 ±0.18, 78.33 ±0.19 g/kg w0.75 respectively. The DM intake of experimental sheep was statistically similar. The average digestibility coefficients of nutrients in T1, T2, and T3 groups for DM 58.56 ± 0.27, 59.02 ± 0.19 and 59.18 ± 0.69; OM 60.83 ± 0.32, 60.73 ±0.20 and 60.27 ±0.19; CP 68.75 ± 0.25, 68.63 ± 0.35 and 68.44 ± 0.27; CF 59.15 ± 0.31, 59.40 ± 0.16 and 59.01 ± 0.41; EE 69.65 ± 0.27, 69.62 ± 0.27 and 69.26 ± 0.24; NFE 60.48 ±0.55, 60.12 ±0.34 and 59.48 ± 0.58; NDF 48.69 ± 0.24, 48.51 ± 0.34 and 48.86 ± 0.19 and ADF 45.06 ± 0.40, 45.00 ± 0.40 and 44.90 ± 0.13. The groups did not differ significantly from each other. The DCP content of TMRs for the groups T1, T2, and T3 was found to be 6.45 ± 0.02, 6.32 ± 0.03 and 6.32 ± 0.03 % on dry matter basis. The TDN content was 57.26 ± 0.28, 57.31 ±0.18 and 56.67 ± 0.26 % on dry matter basis for the groups T1, T2, and T3, respectively. The DCP and TDN content of all the three TMRs were statistically similar. The average digestible nutrient intake of the experimental animals under groups T1, T2, and T3 for DDM were 632.73 ± 25.43, 645.99 ± 25.33 and 629.18 ± 26.90 g/d; DOM 591.71 ± 22.51, 594.83 ± 23.23 and 572.72 ± 22.83 g/d; DCP 69.65 ±2.70, 70.73 ± 1.52 and 68.18 ± 2.29 g/d and TDN 618.35 ± 23.55, 643.99 ± 14.95 and 613.27 ± 19.70 g/d. When expressed as kg/100 kg body weight DDM (1.92 ± 0.03, 1.95 ± 0.03 and 1.96 ± 0.03); DOM (1.80 ±0.03, 1.80 ± 0.03 and 1.79 ± 0.03) and TDN (1.88±0.04, 1.87 ± 0.02 and 1.86 ± 0.02) where DCP (211.43 ± 4.00, 208.84 ± 4.31 and 208.37 ± 3.36; g/100 kg). When expressed as g/ kg W0.75, DDM (46.19 ± 0.24, 46.68 ± 0.21 and 46.58 ± 0.25); DOM (42.95 ± 0.26, 43.02 ± 0.21 and 42.43 ± 0.13); DCP (5.03 ± 0.03, 4.98 ± 0.03 and 4.99 ± 0.02) and TDN (44.89 ± 0.26, 45.29 ± 0.21 and 44.84 ± 0.16), respectively in T1, T2andT3.The average daily digestible nutrient intake did not differ statistically between the groups. The average cumulative DMI (kg/head/60 days) in T1, T2, and T3 groups was recorded to be 64.84 ± 2.63, 65.63 ± 2.61 and 63.44 ± 2.55, respectively. However, the DCPI was reported to be 4.18 ± 0.16, 4.14 ± 0.15 and 4.01 ± 0.16, and TDNI was found 37.10 ± 1.41, 37.60 ± 1.47 and 35.99 ± 1.53 for the groups T,, T2, and T3, respectively. The average cumulative DMI, DCPI and TDNI were more or less similar between the groups. The average water ingestion of Marwari sheep during digestion trial for the expressed as kg/kg DMI, it was 4.04 ± 0.30, 3.99 ± 0.58, 4.14 ± 0.33: and when expressed as g/kg W0.75 the water ingestion was 316.59 ± 23.15, 315.51 ± 45.16 and 323.97 ± 25.83., respectively. The average body weight of animals of T1, T2 and T3 groups at the beginning (33.14 ± 1.81, 33.29 ± 1.80 and 33.21 ± 1.71 kg) and at the end (33.26 ± 1.78, 33.50 ±1.81 and 32.43 ± 1.72 kg), respectively. The average body weight of sheep remained nearly constant during the entire length of experiment. The average values of T1, T2, and T3 groups for rumen parameters were pH (6.75, 6.64 and 6.98); Total nitrogen (92.74, 92.80 and 92.31 mg/dl); Non-protein nitrogen (13.03, 13.01 and 13.20 mg/dl); Soluble nitrogen (68.47, 68.73 and 68.87 mg/dl); Ammonia-N (10.96, 11.20, 11.16 mg/dl) and Total volatile fatty acids (12.34, 12.40 and 12.57 mM/dl). These treatment groups did not differ significantly. The cumulative feed consumption on as such basis in T1, T2 and T3 group was 70.84 ± 2.88, 71.16 ± 2.83 and 98.39±3.95 kg/head/60 days, respectively. The T3 group recorded significantly (P<0.05) higher feed consumption. The feed cost (Rs/head/60 days) for T1, T2 and T3 group was 747.69 + 30.38, 671.41 ± 26.73 and 653.61 ± 26.24, respectively. The cumulative feed cost was statistically similar in all the three groups but was found numerically lower in DPL (T2 and T3) groups compared to control (T1) group. The TMR comprising of either air dried or green date palm leaves replacing jowar hay at 40% DM equivalent basis, had no any adverse effect on voluntary feed intake and body weights of adult Marwari sheep. The ADPL or GDPL are equally palatable to sheep and maintain the body weight during whole experimental period. The ADPL or GDPL are included in the TMRs of small ruminants during scarcity period or even normal years.