Background: This study investigated the free androgen index (FAI) and steroid hormone profiles in two breeds of dromedary camels (Wadhha and Magaheem) with ovarian abnormalities during the reproductive season to assess hormonal disruptions linked to reproductive disorders. Methods: A total of 129 female camels with ovarian abnormalities were categorized by breed (Wadhha and Magaheem) and reproductive season (early: Nov-Dec 2021; late: Jan-May 2022). Each group was further divided into nine subgroups based on ovarian pathology. Each group was divided into nine subgroups according to the types of ovarian abnormalities. The total testosterone (TT), sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), estrone (E1) and 17β-estradiol (E2) measurements were done using ELISA kits and FAI was calculated. Result: Inactive ovaries exhibited the highest TT levels in both breeds, with significant elevations also observed in camels with organized follicles (P less than 0.001). Hydrobursitis was associated with markedly increased E1, while inactive ovaries showed the lowest levels (P less than 0.001). Inactive ovaries had severely suppressed E2 in both breeds (P less than 0.001), with reductions also noted in hemorrhagic and organized follicles. Magaheem camels with multiple small follicles displayed the highest SHBG levels (P less than 0.001). Elevated free androgen index (FAI) was observed in camels with inactive ovaries and hydrobursitis (P less than 0.001), indicating hyperandrogenism. Ovarian abnormalities, particularly inactivity and organized follicles, disrupt steroidogenesis, elevating TT and FAI while reducing E2. Breed-specific and seasonal variations highlight the need for tailored reproductive management. The FAI emerges as a potential biomarker for ovarian dysfunction in camels.
Background: Trauma to the spinal cord or vertebral column may result in permanent neurological dysfunction, including urinary incontinence, loss of spinal reflexes, paraplegia, paralysis and even death. Early presentation, accurate diagnosis and timely therapeutic intervention are critical factors influencing prognosis and functional recovery. Survey radiography and myelography remain important diagnostic tools for lesion localization and assessment of spinal cord compression. Depending on the severity and nature of the injury, spinal trauma may be managed conservatively or surgically. The absence of deep pain perception at presentation is generally associated with a poor prognosis. Methods: Ten cats diagnosed with spinal trauma were included in the present study. Detailed physiological, orthopedic and neurological examinations were performed and neurological status was graded according to established scoring criteria. Survey radiography and contrast radiography (myelography) were conducted to identify the location and severity of spinal lesions. Hematological and biochemical parameters were also evaluated. Conservative or surgical treatment was administered based on the general health status of the patient, extent of neurological deficit, degree of spinal cord involvement and owner consent. Neurological recovery was monitored for 30 days following treatment. Result: Sixty percent of the cats retained deep pain perception at presentation and had neurological scores below 5. These animals demonstrated neurological recovery by the end of the study period. The lumbar region was the most frequently affected vertebral segment (40%). Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) concentrations were significantly elevated in affected cats. Fifty per cent of conservatively managed cats exhibited neurological recovery, while 66.67% of surgically treated cats showed mild neurological improvement. All cats demonstrating neurological recovery were presented within 48 hours of injury.
Background: The seafood industry generates a large quantity of fish processing waste which causes environmental risks, despite high nutritional importance. Present study investigated the extraction of biological hydroxyapatite derived from the bones of Tigertooth croaker (Otolithes ruber) using three different extraction methodologies like, water boiling, alkaline boiling and extracting by means of autoclaving method. Methods: Several physicochemical like, water holding capacity, oil holding capacity, bulk density, tapped density, compressibility and organoleptic like instrumental colour and whiteness index measurement was performed. Result: The water boiled sample showed higher yield value (60.29%), though the alkaline boiled samples exhibited significant higher physical and functional parameters. Out of all the treatments, the AB4 (boiling with 2% NaOH) samples had the overall higher parameters specifically, highest water holding capacity (144.02%), oil holding capacity (67.64%), bulk density (669.66 kg/L), tapped density (759.00 kg/L). Also, AB4 sample had the highest lightness and whiteness index among all the treated samples. Moreover, the PCA bi-plot assured the high correlation of AB4 and AB6 sample towards physicochemical parameters. The study suggest that using 2% NaOH for extraction of biological hydroxyapatite is an effective method for valorizing Tigertooth croaker bone waste and mitigate the environmental impacts.
Background: The infectious abortion in animals mainly caused by different types of microorganism and causes great economic loss and public health significance. The recent years, mycotic abortion is an important reproductive problem among dogs all over the world. Till the date, no complete treatment protocol followed for mycotic abortion in dogs. The Future studies associated with pathogenesis of mycotic abortion and epidemiology of fungal abortion in dogs should be analysed and the application of advanced molecular diagnostic techniques for early diagnosis of mycotic abortion in domestic animals should be followed. Methods: The 22 numbers of aborted dog’s placenta, fetus and vaginal discharge form different breeds were collected from different areas of Tamil Nadu and samples were subjected to culture isolation and identification by using specific media. The blood samples and serum samples collected from aborted dogs were subjected to HPD, brucella, leptospirosis molecular screening and RBPT was performed with the dam serum samples. Result: 5 dog’s aborted samples showed positive for Klebsiella and Staphylococcus and 7 dog’s aborted samples showed E.coli and 12 dogs Candida albicans were isolated. The Aspergillus fumicatus were isolated from all the dog’s aborted materials, the Aspergillus fumigatus is one of the important fungi isolated with most cases of abortions and Aspergillus species and zygomyectes are commonly distributed in the environment. All the collected samples were negative for HPD, brucella in RBPT as well as by PCR. Most of the fungal abortions in dogs usually occurs between 30-40 days of gestation, particularly in summer months. The closed confinement of pregnant animals in humid, hot, cold and unhygienic houses are the predisposing factor for mycotic abortion in dogs. The transmission of fungal abortion and epidemiological pattern of infectious abortion in dogs are still inadequately studied. The direct microscopy examination of skin scrapping and hair followed by cultural isolation of the fungal species from the clinical specimen are considered as the standard method of diagnosis of fungal abortion in animals.
Background: The study designed to investigate the impact of lemongrass and aloe vera on biochemical parameters and antioxidant activity in chicks under normal and heat stress conditions. Methods: A total number of three hundred chicks were randomly distributed into different control and treatment groups, with three replicates having 20 chicks in each group. The chicks were kept for acclimatization for three days and then exposed to heat stress from day 4 to the termination of the experimental period. Blood samples were collected from nine birds (three birds from each replicate from each group) on days 3, 28 and 42 to analyze biochemical parameters and antioxidant enzyme activities. Result: The results revealed that creatinine levels increased significantly (P less than 0.05) with age in C1 and C2 groups, with significantly higher (P less than 0.05) levels observed in the C2 group on days 28 and 42. Between the control groups, significantly higher (P less than 0.05) values of creatinine were recorded in C2 group and among treatment groups, higher values of creatinine were observed in T2 group. With the advancement of age, an increasing trend of SOD, GPx and Catalase enzyme activities were obtained in all the experimental groups. Between the control groups, higher antioxidant enzyme activities were recorded in C2 group. Among the treatment groups, lower activities of antioxidant parameters were recorded in T3.
Background: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Degraded Manure (DM) meal derived from the biodegradation of poultry manure by Hermetia illucens L. larvae as a partial replacement for fish meal in the diet of laying quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica). Methods: A total of four dietary treatments were formulated, consisting of a control diet (R0) and diets containing 4% (R1), 8% (R2) and 12% (R3) DM meal. Parameters measured included feed intake, body weight gain, feed conversion efficiency, egg production and the activity of enzymes (amylase, lipase and protease) in the resulting DM meal. Result: The results showed that increasing the level of DM meal in the diet significantly influenced feed intake (p less than 0.01), with higher consumption observed in treatments containing DM. However, no significant differences (p greater than 0.05) were found in body weight gain or feed conversion efficiency among treatments, indicating stable nutrient utilization across diets. Egg production (number of eggs and total egg weight) demonstrated comparable or improved values in the DM-containing treatments, particularly at 8% and 12% inclusion levels. Enzyme activity analysis confirmed the presence of active amylase, lipase and protease in DM meal, suggesting enhanced nutrient digestibility potential. These findings indicate that DM meal can be included at up to 12% in the diet of laying quails without negative effects on performance, while offering added value through functional enzymes and improved feed sustainability. DM meal represents a viable, economical and environmentally responsible protein alternative in poultry feeding systems.
Background: The increasing demand for soybean meal has caused in a steep increase in its price. An alternative to replace soybean meal is still going on to improve net returns. Hence, incorporating the rice distiller dried grain with solubles (rDDGS) into poultry diets could replace the traditional protein-feed components like soybean meal. Methods: 400 Vencobb-400 broiler day old chicks were allocated into five experimental groups (T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5), each group containing eight replicates. The experimental groups were provided corn-soya based rations with inclusion of various levels of rDDGS (0, 2.5, 5, 7.5 and 10%) as a partial substitute for soybean meal throughout 42 days period. Birds were sacrificed at day 42 and breast part was evaluated for proximate principles, fatty acid analysis, meat quality such as organoleptic assessment, pH, drip loss, water holding capacity (WHC), cooking loss and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS). Result: Except for back yield, non-significant changes (p greater than 0.05) were found in carcass parameters. In evaluating meat composition, organoleptic and physiochemical properties, no significant effects were observed due to the inclusion of rDDGS. However, docosadienoic acid (C22:2), eicosa-penta-enoeic (C22:5) and docosa-hexa-enoic acid (C22:6) concentration of breast muscles was improved (P less than 0.05) due to the inclusion of rDDGS.
Background: Ovariohysterectomy, a commonly performed surgical practice in veterinary surgery that mitigates risks like mammary cancer and pyometra while addressing estrus-related inconveniences. Minimally Invasive Laparoscopic Ovariohysterectomy (MiLOVH) is a less invasive technique gaining popularity for its benefits, including minimal post-operative discomfort, faster recovery, improved surgical site visibility, lower complications and enhanced aesthetics, promoting the overall well-being of canine companions. Methods: The research was carried out on twelve female dogs presented to Madras Veterinary College for elective ovariohysterectomy to evaluate the relative efficiency of laparo-endoscopic single site technique (LESS-OHE) over three port technique (Lap-OHE). Twelve female dogs were selected randomly and divided into two groups-Group I (Lap-OHE; n=6) and Group II (LESS-OHE; N=6). Routine haemato biochemical and radiological examinations were performed. The mean overall surgical time was recorded and the intraoperative period was divided into 5 stages: (1) time of creation of pneumoperitoneum; (2) insertion of ports (3) resection of first ovary (4) resection of second ovary (5) resection of uterus. Surgeon’s scoring was done to evaluate the difficulty of surgical procedure and Glassgow’s pain scale was measured to evaluate the pain of the animal. The length of surgical wound was measured using Vernier Caliper. Result: The mean overall surgical time was slightly longer in Lap-OHE (68.00±2.42 minutes) than LESS-OHE (64.500±3.02 minutes) without any significance. Single port was ergonomically more difficult for surgeons than three port technique but if the learning curve is achieved single port can be used for variety of surgeries other than ovariohysterectomy.
Background: The experiment was to investigate the effects of fermented broken rice (FBR) supplementation on growth performance, nutrient digestion and metabolism, and rumen fermentation in Hu lambs. Methods: A total of 120 weaned Hu lambs were randomly allocated to 4 treatment groups with three replicates per group: a control group fed a basal diet, and three treatment groups supplemented with 10, 20 and 30 g/d FBR per lamb, respectively. The feeding trial lasted 60 days. Result: The results showed as follows: compared with the Con group, FBR supplementation increased the average daily gain (ADG) and average daily feed intake (ADFI) of lambs from day16 to 45 (p less than 0.05), while no differences in ADFI were observed from day 46 to 60. FBR supplementation also markedly improved the apparent digestibility of organic matter, crude protein and neutral detergent fiber, as well as apparent nitrogen digestibility and nitrogen deposition rate, the ruminal ammonia nitrogen, propionic acid and butyric acid contents (p less than 0.05). Meanwhile, FBR reduced gross energy metabolizability, ruminal acetic acid proportion, and acetate-to-propionate ratio (p less than 0.05). In conclusion, graded FBR supplementation improves the growth performance of Hu lambs by enhancing nutrient digestibility, regulating energy supply, and optimizing ruminal fermentation characteristics.
Background: Mastitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus remains a significant challenge in dairy livestock due to the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains and the limited effectiveness of conventional therapeutic approaches. Lysostaphin, a staphylolytic enzyme with high specificity against Staphylococcus species, has emerged as a promising alternative antimicrobial agent. In this study, we aimed to establish a preliminary mammalian expression strategy for production of biologically active recombinant lysostaphin in buffalo fibroblast cells. Methods: A modified lysostaphin gene, designed to eliminate predicted N-glycosylation sites, was synthesized and initially cloned into the pUC57 vector followed by subcloning into the pcDNA3.1/CT-GFP-TOPO expression vector. Recombinant constructs were confirmed by colony PCR and Sanger sequencing before transfection into buffalo fibroblast cells. Recombinant expression was qualitatively assessed using GFP fluorescence and antibacterial activity was evaluated using a qualitative plate inhibition assay against Staphylococcus aureus. Result: The lysostaphin gene (~798 bp) was successfully amplified and cloned into the mammalian expression vector. Screening and sequencing confirmed the correct insertion and orientation without mutations. Transfected buffalo fibroblast cells exhibited GFP fluorescence, indicating successful expression of the recombinant construct. Lysates from transfected cells produced visible zones of inhibition against S. aureus, indicating antibacterial activity of the expressed lysostaphin.
Background: Pain modulation mechanisms in zebrafish offer a reliable platform for evaluating novel antinociceptive agents. Annona squamosa is traditionally known for its therapeutic properties. The present study aimed to investigate the antinociceptive effects of Annona squamosa using glutamate and capsaicin induced nociception models in zebrafish. Methods: A total of 90 adult zebrafish were used and divided into three main groups. Except for the control group (Group 1), the remaining two groups were subdivided into four subgroups: A, B, C and D. Nociception was induced using glutamate and capsaicin and the antinociceptive activity of Annona squamosa was evaluated at two concentrations (200 µg/ml and 400 µg/ml). Line-crossing behaviour was recorded as the primary indicator of nociception. Behavioural responses were further assessed using the novel tank diving test to measure exploratory activity and anxiety-like behaviour. Result: In the glutamate-induced nociception model, Annona squamosa significantly increased line-crossing activity in the glutamate-only group at 200 µg/ml and 400 µg/ml. In the capsaicin model, line-crossing scores increased in capsaicin-only group with co-treatment at 200 µg/ml and 400 µg/ml. Novel tank diving test behavioural outcomes further demonstrated a notable enhancement in exploratory behaviour in Annona squamosa treated groups, evidenced by an increased time spent in the upper tank region, prolonged entry durations and a higher number of upper-zone entries. Additionally, treatment with Annona squamosa reduced anxiety-like parameters, including erratic swimming, freezing bouts and total freezing duration, compared to the nociceptive agent-only groups.
In modern pig production systems, controlled breeding and regulation of ovarian function through manipulation of estrous cycle can be employed to improve reproduction and productivity. Estrous cycle can be regulated with the use of managerial and pharmacological agents which are based on controlling follicular maturation and ovulation or altering the luteal phase. In the past three decades, significant progress has been made in the area of controlled reproduction in pigs. Exogenous hormonal agents like progestogens, gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH), equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and porcine luteinizing hormone (pLH) alone or in combination can be used to regulate estrus and ovulation in pigs. Many of these approaches can aid in batch flow management, maintaining optimal breedable pool of sows and gilts and downstream applications like fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI). Multiple dose therapy of prostaglandin analogues, newer forms of GnRH analogues to synchronize ovulation for use in fixed-time AI (FTAI), use of pheromonal agents are some interesting developments in this field. Exogenous hormones and analogues have potential applications in pig reproduction but should not be applied as a complete alternative to good management practices. Further extensive research on potential influence of pharmaceutical agents, biologically-relevant pheromonal and other novel agents and application of targeted drug delivery on important reproductive processes could help in developing more efficient and viable controlled reproduction approaches in pigs.
Background: Ruminants are poor subject for general anaesthesia. With advancement in veterinary sciences, there is need of balanced anaesthesia with rapid, smooth, induction and lesser recumbency time for large animals. Therefore, the present study was planned to evaluate the alternations on clinico-physiological parameters following ketamine anaesthesia in buffalo calves premedicated with either diazepam, butorphanol or xylazine. Methods: The study was undertaken in eighteen male buffalo calves and divided into three groups (A, B and C) with six animals in each. Ten minutes prior to the anaesthetic administration, all the buffalo calves were administrated glycopyrrolate 0.01 mg kg b.wt. intramuscularly. The animals of group A, B and C were premedicated intravenously with diazepam 0.5 mg kg b.wt., butorphanol 0.075 mg kg b.wt. and xylazine 0.16 mg kg b.wt. respectively. General anaesthesia was induced with ketamine 4 mg kg b.wt. intravenously and clinical parameters were recorded viz., onset of sedation, induction, duration and recovery of anaesthesia. Physiological parameters were also recorded before (0), 5 min after sedation, induction and at 10, 20, 40, 60 and 120 min following ketamine anaesthesia. Result: The onset of sedation and anaesthesia was quicker in animals of group A followed by group C and B respectively. The physiological parameters showed transient changes in all the three groups which were compensated and remained within normal physiological range during the study period. Ketamine in conjunction with various preanaesthetic combinations did not produce any adverse effect on cardiopulmonary system. Thus, ketamine could be safely used as general anaesthestic in buffalo calves premedicated with diazepam, butorphanol or xylazine. However, a combination of xylazine-ketamine produced longer duration of surgical anaesthesia in buffalo calves as compared to other anaesthetic combinations.
Background: This cross-sectional study examined 1,838 small ruminants (661 sheep and 1,227 goats) to investigate the spatial epidemiology and associated risk factors of gastrointestinal parasites (GIPs) through coprological analysis across all twenty-two districts within five agroclimatic zones of Punjab, India. Methods: Classical parasitological coprological techniques were employed to confirm the endemic nature of gastrointestinal parasitism, assess infection intensity (EPG) and determine risk factors across all agroclimatic zones of Punjab, India. Result: An alarming overall copro-prevalence of 83.46% was recorded (85.60% in sheep; 82.40% in goats). Dual infections (38.47%) were significantly higher (x(2): 270.044, P<0.01) than single (21.87%) and multiple infections (22.23%), highlighting polyparasitism as a critical health challenge. Quantitative assessment indicated 36.72% mild (EPG 100-1000), 23.47% light (EPG 1000-3000), 3.16% moderate (EPG 3000-4000) and 6.75% heavy infections (mean EPG >4000). Females and adult ruminants (>6 months) were at significantly higher risk (x(2): 8.653, P<0.01). Highest prevalence was in the central plain zone (86.30%) and lowest in the western plain zone (73.43%). Binary logistic regression indicated significant association (P<0.01) in Barnala, Ludhiana, Moga, SAS Nagar, Mohali and Sangrur districts. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted control programs, particularly in the southern regions of Punjab. Detailed spatial distribution maps of these cases to serve as a vital resource for veterinary practitioners and policymakers are presented.
Background: The transition period represents a critical physiological phase in dairy buffaloes, characterized by profound metabolic, biochemical, oxidative and immunological adaptations to support parturition and the onset of lactation. The present study evaluated dynamic changes in serum biochemical parameters, negative energy balance indicators, oxidative stress markers and inflammatory cytokines in murrah buffaloes during the transition period under Indian rearing conditions. Methods: Twelve clinically healthy Murrah buffaloes were monitored from 21 days prepartum to 21 days postpartum, with blood samples collected at six defined time points (-21, -7, 0, +7, +14 and +21 days relative to calving) to study evaluated serum biochemical parameters, negative energy balance indicators, oxidative stress markers and inflammatory cytokines. Result: Significant increases in non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) concentrations were observed around calving and early postpartum, indicating pronounced negative energy balance. Concurrent declines in serum glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides and lipoproteins, along with alterations in protein fractions, liver enzyme activities and mineral levels, reflected metabolic stress and hepatic adaptation. Oxidative stress was evidenced by elevated malondialdehyde concentrations and a transient reduction in antioxidant enzyme activities during early lactation. Additionally, inflammatory cytokines showed marked modulation, with reduced pro-inflammatory markers and elevated anti-inflammatory responses at calving, suggesting temporary immunosuppression. Overall, the findings highlight the complex interplay between energy metabolism, oxidative stress and immune regulation during the transition period in Murrah buffaloes and emphasize the need for targeted nutritional and management strategies to mitigate metabolic and health disorders during early lactation.
Feline trypanosomiasis, caused primarily by Trypanosoma evansi, is a rare but clinically important disease in India, often left without diagnosis due to low parasitaemia and general signs. The present study was carried out to identify feline trypanosomosis using molecular techniques in Gujarat, India. A one-year-old male domestic cat was presented with bilateral corneal opacity, epistaxis, vomiting, cachexia and neurological symptoms. Haematological analysis revealed leukopenia and thrombocytopenia. Blood smear examination revealed trypanosomes and PCR targeting the 18S rRNA gene confirmed it as T. evansi. The sequenced product is 99.88% similar to a camel isolate from Egypt (AB551922.1). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the sequence of the study was related to T. evansi strains from India and Egypt. Treatment with diminazene aceturate resulted in transient clinical improvement followed by death. This case represents the significance of molecular diagnosis for initial detection, especially in cats with ocular lesions in surra-endemic areas.
Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients have hepatic disorders risk. This study investigated liver-protective effects of suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA) and dapagliflozin (DAPA) in T2DM rats. Methods: T2DM induced by high fat diet (HFD) and single Streptozotocin (STZ) injection (35 mg/kg i.p.). Forty rats sorted into 4 groups: NC (negative control), T2DM, T2DM+SAHA (5 mg/kg/i.p. for 8 weeks) and T2DM+DAPA (1mg/kg/p.o. for 8 weeks). At experimental end, levels of fasting blood glucose (FBG), fasting insulin, hepatic function tests [gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total bilirubin, albumin, total protein], lipid profiles [total cholesterol (TC), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglyceride (TG)] measured in serum. Hepatic tissue homogenization prepared for estimating oxidative stress biomarkers [glutathione (GSH), malonaldehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD)]. Hepatic histopathological examination made under light microscope. Result: After 8 weeks treatment, diabetic rats showed elevated FBG, insulin, liver enzymes (GGT, ALT, AST), bilirubin, TG, TC, LDL-C, MDA, with reductions in albumin, proteins, HDL-C, GSH, SOD. Histopathological liver damage observed. SAHA and DAPA improved metabolic, oxidative stress and liver function. DAPA was effective in improving FBG and lipid profiles, while SAHA showed effective on insulin resistance and antioxidant. Histological liver improvements were more pronounced in SAHA group. SAHA and DAPA offer hepatoprotection in T2DM by improving oxidative stress, lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity and preserving liver structure.
Background: The current study assessed the impact of seasonal fluctuation on semen quality and the storage of liquids capability in Hampshire crossbred boars. Northeastern India is known for its significant rainfall, moderate ambient temperatures and high relative humidity. Methods: Semen samples were collected during three distinct seasons, viz. pre-monsoon (March-May), monsoon (June-September) and post-monsoon (October-February). Ejaculates were diluted in Beltsville Thawing Solution (BTS) extender and preserved at 18°C in a BOD incubator. Sperm quality was assessed using computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA) at 0, 3 and 5 days of liquid preservation. Result: The results revealed a significant (p less than 0.01) impact of the season and length of preservation on most CASA parameters. Semen collected during the pre-monsoon season exhibited significantly higher TM, PM and velocity-related parameters at day 0 and day 3 of liquid storage compared to monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. A progressive decline in sperm movement and kinematic attributes was observed with advancement of storage period across all seasons. Correlation analysis demonstrated strong and season-specific associations of TM and PM with velocity and trajectory-related CASA parameters, particularly during monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. The study concludes that seasonal variation significantly influences the liquid preservation potential of Hampshire crossbred boar semen under NEH region conditions, with the pre-monsoon season being comparatively more favourable for short-term liquid storage in BTS extender at 18°C.
Background: The availability and high cost of conventional concentrate feeds are major constraints to improving sheep fattening efficiency. A study was conducted to evaluate the effects of feeding total mixed ration (TMR) incorporating dried legume fodders, dhaincha (Sesbania aculeata) and sunnhemp (Crotalaria juncea), on the production performance, carcass characteristics and economics of Mecheri lambs. Methods: A 120 days feeding trial was conducted using 24 weaned lambs (3 to 4 months old), randomly allotted to four groups of six animals each (three males and three females). The control group (T1) received a TMR with 20% dried hedge lucerne, while T2, T3 and T4 were fed TMRs containing 20% dried dhaincha, 20% dried sunnhemp and a combination of 10% dried dhaincha + 10% dried sunnhemp, respectively. Iso-nitrogenous and iso-caloric diets were fed ad libitum, with fortnightly adjustments based on body weight. Result: Growth performance and feed efficiency did not differ significantly (P greater than 0.05) among treatments, although T2 recorded numerically higher body weight. Cumulative dry matter intake was highest (P less than 0.01) in T1, while all lambs maintained normal physiological and biochemical profiles. Carcass traits were comparable across treatments, with T2 showing the highest pre-slaughter and hot carcass weights and T4 exhibiting superior loin eye area and sensory attributes. Economic analysis indicated that incorporation of dhaincha and sunnhemp in TMRs improved profitability, with T2 yielding the highest net income per animal (Rs. 1,900.87), lowest feed cost per kg gain (Rs. 151.09) and a favourable benefit cost ratio (1.278). Overall, incorporating dried dhaincha and dried sunnhemp at 20 per cent in total mixed ration can be recommended as sustainable and cost effective alternatives to conventional leguminous forages for intensive lamb production systems.
Background: Heat stress represents a major challenge to livestock health and welfare under intensive housing systems in tropical and subtropical regions. Especially during the hottest periods of the day, when high temperatures and humidity intensify the physiological burden on dairy cows. This pilot study investigates the influence of varying high-speed airflow within the dairy barn on both the barn microclimate and the animals' circadian heat load. Methods: This pilot study investigated the short-term effects of varying high airspeed airflow on the barn microclimate and animal physiology to optimize maximum effectiveness. Airflow-based treatments were applied along the barn axis at targeted airflow speeds of ASc (control), AS1 (1.8 m/s), AS2 (3.6 m/s) and AS3 (4.8 m/s). At each airspeed treatment level, observations were recorded to evaluate diurnal physiological responses, specifically rectal temperature and respiration rate. The study involved six heifers (12-18 months) and both environmental and physiological measurements were taken three times daily during the hot-dry (HD) and hot-humid (HH) seasons. Result: THI ranged from 74-85 under hot-dry conditions and increased to 76-89 under hot-humid conditions, with relative humidity rising from 48-95%. Within each season, THI showed a slight decline with increasing air speed (ASc-AS3), indicating localized improvement in the shed microclimate. CO2 concurrently decreased from 720-760 to 610-640 ppm (p<0.001). Rectal temperature peaked at 39.59 degrees C and 39.98 degrees C and respiration rate at 33.50 and 37.33 breaths/min, respectively, both significantly reduced at higher air speeds (p<0.001). Peripheral surface temperatures (forehead, head, eye, flank) were higher under humid heat but declined markedly with increasing airflow (3.6-4.8 m/s), with eye temperature decreasing from 39.79 to 39.20 degrees C and 40.18 to 38.78 degrees C. The skin temperature gradient increased from 2.76 to 3.34 degrees C and from 2.36 to 3.25 degrees C, reflecting enhanced heat dissipation. Overall, increasing air speed improved microclimate quality and effectively mitigated thermal and physiological stress.
