Showing papers in "Indian Journal of Animal Sciences in 2011"

Epidemiology and seasonal dynamics of Ixodid ticks of dairy animals of Punjab state, India*

Abstract: Cattle (890) and buffaloes (636) were examined from 8 districts of Punjab state, India with an overall prevalence of 85.28 and 57.10% Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, 20.45 and 52.20% Hyalomma anatolicum anatolicum and 5.73 and 9.90% mixed infestation in cattle and buffalo population, respectively. R. microplus was the predominant tick in cattle population (85.28%), whereas in buffalo population R. microplus and H. a. anatolicum were almost evenly distributed. Among the different agro-climatic zones a significantly higher prevalence of H. a. anatolicum was recorded in both cattle and buffalo population of Western Plain and Western regions with comparison to other regions i.e. Central Plain and Undulating Plains of the state. H. a. anatolicum was recorded more in summer (23.1%) and monsoon (21.0%) seasons compared to winter (6.10%). In cattle, the tick infestation was similar in both the sexes whereas in buffalo, R. microplus was predominating in males and H. a. anatolicum was predominating in females. In organized dairy farms, the prevalence of H. a. anatolicum was very low (3.74%) but was and higher (45.31%) in unorganized sector.

Whole-genome sequence assembly of the water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

Abstract: The buffalo is an integral part of agriculture, particularly within the continent of Asia, providing a source of milk, meat, skin, hides, fertilizer, fuel, and draft power. The efficiency of this animal, compared to that of cattle, is higher in this region, though little is known about genome sequence of buffalo. The first version of assembly of a single female Murrah buffalo was constructed with Illumina paired end and mate pair short read sequencing using the cattle genome (Btau 4.0 assembly) as a reference. The assembly has read depth of 17-19X. The buffalo assembly represents ~ 91%-95% coverage in comparison to the cattle assembly Btau 4.0. The assembly has 185,150 contigs with the median contig length of 2.3 Kb and the largest contig length of 663 Kb. The mitochondrial genome is fully covered by a single contig. Whole genome comparison between this assembly and of cattle revealed 52 million mismatches/indels. The present analysis also unveils about 300 structural variants in the buffalo genome. The buffalo assembly has been integrated into a publically available genome browser with tracks for read pair insert distances, read depth, nucleotide variations, coverage, and the availability of custom tracks for scientific community. This assembly of the Water Buffalo is the first deep sequencing project that provides the resources to better understand the genomic basis of adaptable traits and genetic variation that distinguishes buffalo from cattle.

Effects of probiotic, prebiotic and synbiotic intake on blood enzymes and performance of Japanese quails (Coturnix Japonica)

Abstract: The present study was conducted to evaluate the influence of probiotic, prebiotic and synbiotic on performance values and blood enzymes of Japanese quails. One-day-old Japanese quail chicks (192), mean body weight 7.78 g, were randomly assigned in 4 treatments and 4 replicates. The experimental diets consisted of a basal diet without additive (control), 0.2 g/kg probiotic (P), 1.6 g/kg prebiotic (F) and 1.0 g/kg synbiotic (B) added to the basal diet. Birds fed synbiotic showed a significant elevation in body weight compared to other groups. Feed intake of birds fed synbiotic and prebiotic were higher than control and probiotic fed groups. Birds fed synbiotic exhibited a better feed conversion ratio (3.08) compared to probiotic fed (3.19) and control groups (3.14). The males fed additives showed decrease in liver weight. Females fed prebiotic showed decrease in liver weight compared to control and synbiotic additive groups. The relative weight of heart was decreased in the males fed prebiotic compared to synbiotic fed and control groups. The females fed probiotic showed increase in heart weight. The activity of ALP in males elevated by synbiotic consumption. ALP activity decreased in females fed additives. ALT activity was depressed in males fed probiotic or synbiotic. AST activity in males fed prebiotic elevated. In both gender CPK activity was higher in prebiotic feeding group. Results indicated that using synbiotics has positive effects on performance and normal activity of enzymes and prebiotic has positive effects on performance and reduction weigh of heart and liver in Japanese quails.

On-farm characterization of Vrindavani cattle in India

Abstract: Vrindavani cattle are recently developed synthetic crossbred cattle strain of India. It has the exotic inheritance of Holstein-Friesian, Brown Swiss, Jersey and indigenous inheritance of Hariana cattle. The present study was undertaken to characterize the Vrindavani cattle maintained at cattle and buffalo farm, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, India. The physical, morphological characteristics and production performances of Vrindavani cattle were studied. The coat colour of Vrindavani was predominantly brown though some animals had black, white and beige coat colour. Head was clean cut well proportionate with prominent poll and concave forehead. The ears were medium sized, laterally orientated with round edge. Hip bone was broad and prominent with wide, smooth and level pin bone. Udder was generally trough type. These animals were docile to moderate in temperament. Morphometric measurements of males were higher than females. The mean birth weight of Vrindavani calves were 22.13±0.12 kg. The mean lactation milk yield, 305 day milk yield and peak yield was 3219.75±41.09, 3047.42±33.8 and 16.58±0.16 kg, respectively. The average age at first successful service, age at first calving, service period and dry period was 746.28±8.94, 1 012.14±9.32, and 149.54±4.55 and 99.65±5.75 days respectively.

Factors influencing in-vitro embryo production efficiency of caprine oocytes: A review

Abstract: Pre-implanted growth and development of embryo is deficient in many aspects as is evidenced by the great difficulty in growing embryos in-vitro, while maintaining viability as shown by development of early embryos in-vitro generally delayed or completely blocked at 8‐16 cell stage embryo and hardly small percentage of the in-vitro fertilized embryo develop to morula and blastocyst, which is probably due to minor physio- chemical variation and lack of certain factors in the culture system. In-vitro development of mammalian embryos usually remains inferior to development than invivo produced embryos. The mechanism regulating the in-vitro acquisition of developmental competence of oocytes is still obscure. Therefore it is needed to standardize the culture conditions that mimic in-vivo embryo development. To know the exact mechanism of developing embryos, there should be a defined system that caters the needs of developing embryos. The current review describes the criteria and factors affecting in-vitro maturation, fertilization and embryo development in goat.

Role of bioclimatographs in forecasting of strongyle infection in Rajasthan

Abstract: The present communique describes the role of bioclimatographs in forecasting the periods suitable for translation of predominant nematode parasite of sheep (Haemonchus contortus) in Rajasthan. Bioclimatographs were useful in predicting the periods that are suitable for translation of exogenous stages of H. contortus in both arid and semi-arid environment with resultant peak of infection in host. Further, the study provides the possibility that climatic consideration in combination with grazing practices can be taken into account in evaluating expected level of refugia and thus treatments can be avoided at times when refugia are likely to be small. Thus, integration of climate and biology of parasite in the form of bioclimatograph may strengthen our tool box in combating the menace caused by gastrointestinal parasites.

Effect of extreme hot climate on liver and serum enzymes in Marwari goats

Abstract: A study was conducted to investigate liver and serum enzymes i.e. aspartate amino transferase (AST) and alanine amino transferase (ALT) during moderate (Jan/Feb) and extreme (May/ June) climatic conditions in three hundred Marwari goats. In each climatic condition, 150 animals were taken. They were categorized in to males (70 of 0-1 year, and 30 of above 1 year) and females (30 of 0-1 year, and 20 of above 1 year). Blood samples were collected aseptically using EDTA containing vials and after separation of serum the serum transaminases were determined. Liver tissues were collected after slaughter of the animal and all the analyses were carried out at the same day of collection of fresh sample. Liver AST and ALT (IU/L) ranged from 210.56 to 610.10 (average 579.65±11.33) and from 170.11 to 562.70 (average 402.09±21.34), respectively. Serum AST and ALT ranged from 56.70 to 215.00 (average 186.76±7.87) and from 20.15 to 85.77 (average 57.54±1.24), respectively. Season had significant (P<0.05) effect on both liver and serum ALT. Liver ALT showed significant (P<0.05) effect on sex in both climatic conditions and age group in moderate climatic condition. Higher values were observed in liver AST and ALT in males in comparison to females in both climatic conditions. Higher values of liver AST and ALT were observed in 0–1 year age group animals than above 1 year age group in both climatic conditions except in extreme climatic condition values of ALT observed higher in above 1 year age group animals. Serum AST showed significant (P<0.05) effect of sex in both climatic conditions but mean while, serum ALT showed significant (P<0.05) effect on age group in extreme climatic condition only. Higher values of serum AST was observed in male while serum ALT values were higher in female of both climatic conditions.

Molecular characterization and genogrouping of classical swine fever virus isolated from field outbreaks

Abstract: The aim of the present study is to characterize Classical Swine Fever Virus (CSFV) isolated from field outbreaks in suburban places of Bangalore, India, using molecular techniques and subsequent genogrouping of the virus. Various tissue samples from CSFV affected pigs (n=12) were collected and subjected to either virus isolation in PK-15 cell line, or RNA extraction. PCR amplification was carried out targeting the 5' NTR gene following commercially available RT-PCR kit protocol. Subsequent agarose gel electrophoresis yielded specific amplicons of 421 bp obtained from pooled samples of three pigs. The PCR purified products were sequenced and subjected to BLAST analysis and subsequently submitted to GenBank. The obtained nucleotide sequences were aligned using MegAlign programme and further subjected to analysis using MEGA 4 programme. All three field isolates were found to be grouped into subgroup 2.2 of group 2.

Effect of climatic changes on reproductive performance of Murrah buffaloes in Punjab: A rertrospective analysis

Abstract: The present study was conducted to assess the effect of climatic changes on reproductive performance of Murrah buffaloes in Punjab. Retrospective analysis of farm records of 15 years and climatic data on oestrus expression and conception interval revealed that even though buffalo calved and showed postpartum oestrus throughout the year, their seasonal pattern in postpartum oestrus incidence could be due to seasonal changes in climatic factors. Relative humidity, rainfall and vapour pressure had positive influence and air temperature and number of sunshine hours had negative influence on postpartum ovarian activity. Season of calving influenced the intervals from calving to oestrus and conception. Monsoon calving buffalo had shorter while summer and winter calving buffalo had longer intervals from calving to oestrus and conception. Parity order had negative correlations and lactation yield had positive correlations with intervals from calving to oestrus and conception. The interval from calving to oestrus was shorter than the interval from calving to conception across the season of calving, parity order and lactation yield. Therefore, it appears that climatic factors, parity order and lactation yield together with individual animal variations may have influenced the conception. However, this study suggests that further studies are required to elaborate the impact of these factors on postpartum reproductive physiology of buffalo in relation to their hormonal and metabolic environment, ovarian activity, expression of oestrus and conception during the early postpartum period.

Genetic variability and bottleneck analyses of kanniadu goat breed based on microsatellite markers

Abstract: Genetic variation at 25 microsatellite loci was examined in Kanniadu goats of Tamil Nadu. The Kanniadu goat is a prolific meat breed thriving well in the tropical draught conditions. The observed number of alleles ranged from 5 (RM4) to 13 (RM088, OarE129) with an average value of 8.64±0.48. The effective number of alleles ranged from 1.45 (ILSTS34) to 7.89 (ILSTS033 and OMHC1) with the overall mean value of 4.22±0.34. The average observed and expected heterozygosity values were 0.53±0.03 and 0.73±0.02, respectively. The polymorphic information content value ranged from 0.30 to 0.86. These high values of PIC indicated higher polymorphism in the breed. Within population inbreeding estimate (Fis = 0.25) showed moderate level of inbreeding, which warranted adoption of appropriate breeding strategies under field conditions. The high level of genetic variability, however, suggested the scope for further genetic improvement of Kanniadu goats.

Housing, breeding and management practices of Mahabubnagar goats.

Abstract: A study on Mahabubnagar goats of Andhra Pradesh was carried out in 150 households of 56 villages in Mahabubnagar, Nalgonda and Ranga Reddy districts with the objective of cataloguing management practices of Mahabubnagar goats. The study revealed that closed type of housing system was adopted by 60 percent of farmers with thatched roof and kutcha floor. The common feeding practice was grazing (72%), while 27.33% farmers supplemented their animals with concentrates, crop byproducts, etc. during lean periods. The overall flock size was 43.69 ± 1.70 and 58% farmers maintained 26 to 50 goats per flock under field conditions. Majority of the farmers followed 1 : 21 to 30 sex ratio in their flocks and they did not rotate the breeding bucks as well as did not select breeding males and females. Deworming (82.08%), deticking (6.67%) and vaccination (18.67%) schedules were followed as preventive health measures. Most of the goats were disposed off at villages as per the wishes of butcher, middlemen and traders based on the animal size and shape.

Effect of pre partum supplementation of rumen protected fat and protein on the performance of Murrah buffaloes

Abstract: The present experiment was conducted to study the effect of pre partum rumen protected fat and protein supplementation on the performance of Murrah buffaloes. Eighteen Murrah buffaloes (2 nd - 4th lactation) were divided into 2 groups (9 each) on the basis of most probable production ability (MPPA). Buffaloes in group 1 (control group; MPPA 2204.17 kg) were fed chaffed wheat straw, chopped green maize fodder and concentrate mixture as per requirements; buffaloes in group 2 (treatment group; MPPA 2210.64 kg) were fed same ration as control group plus 2.5% rumen protected fat (on DM intake basis) and concentrate mixture containing formaldehyde treated mustard and groundnut oil cake (1.2 g HCHO/100 g CP) in place of normal mustard and groundnut oil cakes. Group 2 buffaloes were supplemented rumen protected fat and protein 60 days pre partum. Average DM intake was 11.13 and 11.69 (kg/d) in groups 1 and 2, respectively, which was significantly higher in group 2. The average CP and TDN intakes were higher in group 2 than that of group 1. During last fortnight, group 2 buffaloes showed higher body weight gain than that of group 1. Average birth weights of the calves were higher by 10.8% in group 2 (35.38 kg) than that of group 1 (31.94 kg). The calving percentage was 100% in both groups. There was no effect on plasma glucose, NEFA, triglycerides and cholesterol concentrations among 2 groups, whereas BUN concentration was lower in group 2 during. Incidence of retention of foetal membranes, still births and premature births were reduced in group 2 buffaloes. It may be concluded that rumen protected fat and protein supplementation during pre partum period to advanced pregnant buffaloes increased the calf weight, decreased the incidences of retention of foetal membranes and premature birth in high yielding buffaloes.

Effect of breed on the quality attributes of camel meat

Abstract: This study was carried out to differentiate between camel breeds with respect to their chemical composition and meat quality characteristics. Four breeds were selected: Magahem, Wodoh, Shoal, and Sofor. The animals’ ages and final weight were approximately 12 months and 281.3±9.32 kg, respectively. To identify the differences between these breeds, we collected 6 longissimus dorsi (LD) and 6 Biceps femoris (BF) muscles from the animals. Meat samples were taken from the LD for chemical composition analysis, and meat quality parameters were characterized for both types of muscles. Assessments were made of the following parameters: myofibril fragmentation index (MFI) score, sarcomere length (SL), fiber area (FA), slice shear force (SSF), pH, loss of volume through cooking, cooking time, and color. The breed groups exhibited significant differences in their fat content as well as differences in SSF values for the LD: Shoa>Wodoh>Sofor>Magahem. The 4 breeds also showed significant differences in LD MFI values. The results indicate that there are significant differences between the breed groups and their muscles with respect to the composition and quality of their meat.

Status of anthelmintic resistance in gastrointestinal nematodes of sheep in Rajasthan

Abstract: A study was conducted to assess the status of anthelmintic resistance in gastrointestinal nematodes (predominantly Haemonchus contortus) of sheep maintained at organized farms and farmer’s field in Rajasthan through in-vivo faecal egg count reduction test and in-vitro egg hatch assay. The magnitude of reduction in the faecal egg counts by fenbendazole (@ 5.0 mg kg -1 body weight) revealed emergence of benzimidazole resistance in H. contortus of sheep from all the farm and field flocks except in field flocks from north-eastern Rajasthan where 66.7% flocks possessed benzimidazoleresistant H. contortus. With tetramisole (@ 15 mg kg-1 body weight) resistance in H. contortus was observed in farm flock of north-eastern region whereas among field flocks it ranged from 33.33% (north region) to 83.33% (eastern region). On egg hatch assay, strains of worms were found susceptible to benzimidazole in farm flocks of northern region while in field flocks prevalence of benzimidazole resistance strongyle worms was 100% in eastern and northern region and 83.33% in north-eastern region. A high agreement (86.4%) with poor linear correlation (r = 0.087) was observed between results of both faecal egg count reduction test and egg hatch assay for benzimidazole resistance.

Effect of in-ovo feeding maltose on the embryo growth and intestine development of broiler chicken

Abstract: The present experiment was conducted to study the effects of in ovo feeding maltose on the embryo growth and intestine development of broiler. On the 17.5d of incubation, altogether 635 eggs were divided randomly into 5 treatments. The eggs of treatment 2, 3, 4 and 5 were injected with 1 ml 4.5 g/L NaCl solutions containing 100 g/L, 200 g/L, 300 g/ L, 400 g/L maltose into the amnion fluid, while the eggs of treatment 1 as the control were only injected with 1 ml 4.5 g/L NaCl solution. The results showed that hatchling weights of in ovo feeding 100~300 g/L maltose solution group increased by 2.9 to 6.4% over controls. But higher maltose concentration reduced hatchability, and even resulted in all death (400 g/L maltose). The morphological examination of jejunum villus indicated on the day of hatching villus height, width and surface area of all IO feeding treatments exhibited increase compared with the control group and, in treatment 3, these were significantly increased by 17, 35 and 57%, respectively. So in ovo feeding found 200 g/L maltose solutions to the chicken embryo can promote the development of the jejunum villus, benefit due to enhancement in the absorption of nutrients and thus increase the weight of hatching.

Evaluation of tropical feedstuffs for carbohydrate and protein fractions by CNCP system

Abstract: Seventeen feed ingredients comprising protein sources (linseed cake-LSC, mustard seed cake-MSC, cotton seed cake-CSC, soybean cake-SBC and groundnut cake-GNC), energy sources (deoiled rice bran-DORB, maize grain-MG, barley grain-BG and wheat bran-WB), legume roughages (berseem, cowpea hay-CH, Stylosanthes hamata-SH and Acacia catechu-AC) and non-legume roughages (ammoniated wheat straw-AWS, guinea grass-GG, maize fodder -MF and sorghum fodder-SF) were evaluated for carbohydrate and nitrogen fractions as well as mineral contents. In CNCP system, crude protein content of feed is partitioned into 5 fractions (A, B 1 , B 2 , B 3 and C) and carbohydrate into 4 fractions (A, B 1 , B 2 and C) according to degradation rates. The proximate composition, cell wall constituents, carbohydrate and nitrogen fractions of different feeds vary significantly amongst the groups. The CHO, C NSC , CB 1 , and Cc fractions of carbohydrate were higher in energy, while C A and C B2 fraction of CHO were more in protein sources. Total CHO and C B2 fraction of carbohydrates were more in non-legume while C A , C NSC and Cc fractions were higher in legume roughages. Amongst the studied feedstuffs P A and P B fractions of protein were higher in protein sources, while P B2 , P B3 and P C fractions were higher in energy sources. Legumes exhibited higher contents of P AB2/sub>, while non-legume had higher P A , P B1 and P B3 fraction of protein. Concentration of macro (%) and micro minerals (ppm) of feed stuffs differed across feeds (energy and protein) and roughages (legumes and non legumes). It is concluded from the present study that feedstuffs chemical properties for carbohydrate and nitrogen fractions are unique and different. Therefore feed ingredients selection based on CNCPS evaluation will be more logical for formulating efficient diets for livestock.

Assessment of acute phase proteins and nitric oxide as indicator of subclinical mastitis in Holstein × Haryana cattle

Abstract: The present investigation was conducted to evaluate acute phase proteins alpha 1 anti trypsin, alpha 1 acid glycoprotein and fibrinogen) and NOx as indicators of subclinical mastitis (SCM) in 212 Holstein ~ Hariana (F 1 ) cow milk. The assay revealed that fibrinogen was below detection level in both healthy and diseased milk. Somatic cell count (SCC), alpha 1 anti trypsin and NOx increased significantly high in SCM milk, whereas, the increase of acid glycoprotein was noted to be significant. From the udder profile correlation coefficient it was observed that log 10 1 SCC vs alpha anti trypsin and NOx was significant (0.257 and 0.216, respectively) and alpha 1 acid glycoprotein was significant (0.173) in SCM milk only. Normal milk log SCC was significantly correlated to NOx (0.152). Highly significant correlation was observed between alpha 1 10 - anti trypsin and NOx (0.245) in SCM milk only. Correlation between alpha acid glycoprotein and NOx was significant (0.162). This illustrates that these components are linked with each other in SCM milk. alpha 1 anti trypsin followed by alpha acid glycoprotein were most sensitive, specific and accurate of the three investigated component. Though the magnitude of percent specificity for each parameter is less but their sensitivity is very high, which implies that they can detect SCM at an early stage. Thus, it can be concluded that alpha - anti trypsin and alpha acid glycoprotein are indicators of bovine SCM, the former being the better.

Effect of garlic, thyme and yogurt compared to antibiotics on performance, immunity and some blood parameters of broiler chickens

Abstract: The authorities banned many growth promotors, as the overuse of commercial antibiotics leads to danger of losing bacterial resistance. In this study, we tried to investigate the effect of garlic, thyme and yogurt on broilers compared to antibiotics. Arbor Acres chickens (300) were divided into 5 groups with 3 repetitions. First group as control group received only basal diet, second group was treated by 0.5 g/kg flavophospholipol as antibiotic growth promoter, third group was treated by 1 g/kg garlic powder, the fourth group received 1 g/kg thyme powder and the fifth group was fed by basal diet plus 5 g/kg yogurt. All the other conditions were the same for all the groups. After 49 days of treatment performance, immunity system and some blood parameters were measured. There were significant differences in garlic, thyme and antibiotic groups with control and yogurt groups in body weight gain, feed conversion ratio from performance, antibody titre, heterophils / lymphocytes ratio, albumin from immune system, and triglyceride from blood parameters. Cholesterol level was lower in garlic and thyme groups. Yogurt showed numerically improvements in some factors. According to the results, garlic and thyme can be used as a good alternative for commercial antibiotics.

Morphological characterization, production and reproduction status of Munjal -A threatened sheep population of North-West India

Abstract: To characterize Munjal sheep, 107 random sheep flocks were assessed in their breeding tract. Rams (42), ewes (152) and lambs (80) were selected from 32 sheep flocks from 3 different locations for data recording on seven body biometry parameters (body weight, body length, height at wither, chest girth, paunch girth, ear length and tail length). The average adult body weight in rams and ewes was 60.05±1.55 and 43.95±0.51 kg respectively. Body biometry analysis suggested that Munjal sheep are quite large in size, tall, rectangular and massive with long tail. Twinning was 4–10%. The mortality in adults was 5–10% and 4–6% in lambs. Age at puberty in females was 10–12 months. Age at first lambing of ewes was 15–18 months, while age at first breeding of rams was 12–15 months. Due to socio-economic and other factors, shrinkage in breeding tract was observed. The numbers are continuously dwindling and the current population exhibited its threatened status.

Detection of pork in admixed meat and meat products by species-specific PCR technique

Abstract: The objective of this study was to detect the adulteration of pork in meat and meat products employing PCR assay. A PCR assay was successfully optimized for amplification of 263 bp DNA fragment extracted from pork using designed species-specific primer pairs based on mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene. The optimized PCR assay was subsequently validated for its specificity with DNA extracted from cattle, buffalo, sheep, goat, pig and chicken meat. The primer pair was found to be specific for pork and no cross reaction was observed with other species used in this study. Subsequently, optimized PCR assay was evaluated for its efficiency to amplify the DNA extracted from heat treated meat and meat emulsion. No adverse effect of heat treatments was found on PCR amplification of pork DNA. Thus, the developed primer pairs were found to be specific for pig.

Nutritional status of dairy animals in different regions of Punjab State in India

Abstract: Received: 30 September 2009; Accepted: 5 October 2010ABSTRACTThe objective of this study was to assess the nutritional status of animals with respect to macro nutrients in differentregions of Punjab state. The Punjab State is divided into 6 agro climatic zones — the sub mountain undulating zone(SMUZ), undulating plain zone (UPZ), central plain zone (CPZ), western plain zone (WPZ), western zone (WZ) andflood prone bet zone (FPBZ). Two districts were selected from each region; from each district 2 tehsils/blocks wereselected. From each tehsil, 2 villages and from each village at least 10 farmers of different socio-economic status wereselected.The animals of WZ had highest body weight (518 kg) produced highest milk (6.9 kg/d), while that of SMUZ had thelowest body weight (467 kg) and animals of UPZ produced only 5.1 kg/d. The daily DM intake expressed as per cent ofbody weight varied between 2.35 (UPZ) and 2.84% (WPZ). The animals of all the zones, except that of CPZ (protein)and WPZ (EE) were offered either protein and fat deficient diets, or the diet offered was not able to meet the requirementof these nutrients, as also indicated by the milk urea-N (MUN), which varied between 4.67 (WPZ) and 9.45 mg/dl(CPZ). The NDF content in the complete feed was much higher in all the zones than the recommended level. Theproportion of roughage in the complete feed was highest in UPZ (86.9%) followed by that in FPBZ (83.69%) andlowest proportion was used in the diet of animals of WZ (71.41%), where relatively high proportion of concentrate wasused (28.59%), which was clear from the health and productive performance of the animals of WZ.The purine derivatives excreted in urine revealed that allantoin concentration was highest in animals of WZ indicatinghighest microbial protein synthesis in the rumen for meeting the protein requirements. The results revealed that animalsof WZ utilized the nutrients more efficiently compared to animals of any other zone, as indicated by higher milkproduction. The animals of WPZ though consumed higher amount of DM and CP, the absorption of purines and microbialnitrogen synthesis was low, indicating inefficient utilization of dietary nutrients.Only 19.7% of the farmers offered mineral mixture (MM) in CPZ, followed by that of FPBZ and lowest (2.5%) inSMUZ. With regards to salt supplementation in the diet, the situation was better than that for MM, as 48% of thefarmers of CPZ and only 19.68% of the farmers of WZ supplemented the diet with salt. The deficiency of minerals andsalt was reflected in reproductive problems faced at farm houses. The highest cases of repeat breeding/anoestrus wererecorded in CPZ and WPZ (52.0–51.5%) and the lowest number (28–34%) of cases was recorded in WZ and FPBZ. Itwas concluded that feeding of the balanced diet (with respect to energy, protein and minerals) must be advocated underfield conditions.

Enterotoxigenic profile of Bacillus cereus strains isolated from raw and pasteurized milk

Abstract: The present investigation was undertaken to study the incidence of Bacillus cereus in milk, its source of contamination and to detect the enterotoxigenic genes (hblCDA, nheABC, cytK and entFM) in isolates by a multiplex-PCR B cereus could be isolated from 2 (4%) of the 50 raw milk samples taken aseptically directly from the animals, while among 36 raw pooled milk samples from dairy farms and 74 pasteurized milk samples, 12 (3333%) and 28 (3783%) turned out positive, respectively The levels of B cereus in contaminated milk samples ranged from 05×102 to 26×105 CFU/ml The other related Bacilli like B mycoides and B thuringiensis were isolated from 10 (625%) and 6 (375%) milk samples, respectively The multiplex-PCR of B cereus isolates revealed the incidence of various enterotoxigenic genes hblD, hblA, hblC, nheA, nheB, nheC, cytK and entFM as 7380, 6904, 7142, 9523, 9045, 9523, 667 and 100%, respectively A higher incidence of B cereus in pasteurized milk and a large proportion (5476%) of isolates harbouring all the enterotoxigenc genes, most of them being among the isolates from pasteurized milk samples (7391%) pose a potential public health threat Moreover, the genes in the operons (hblCDA and nheABC) can occur independently from each other

Phytochemical activities of Aspilia africana leaf using different extractants

Abstract: Aspilia africana plant is used in herbal medicine for the perceived presence of some bioactive components in the leaves. Scientific reports suggest that different crude extracts of the plant contain specific bioactive constituents that could have varied effects on its biological activities. This study evaluated the phytochemical activities in the meal; aqueous, chloroform and ethanolic extracts of A. africana leaves. The anti-microbial activity of the four samples of A. africana were tested on nine micro-organisms of six bacteria and three fungal strains using the agar well diffussion technique. Results of the phytochemical screening and subsequent quantification revealed the presence of high amount of some bioactive compounds; saponins, tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoid and phenol, but the absence of steroids (leaf meal and all extracts), phylobatannin (chloroform and ethanolic extracts) and cardiac glycoside (ethanolic extract) in the A. africana leaf products. Though the chloroform leaf extract had higher concentrations (P< 0.05) of these phytochemicals, significant (P< 0.05) improvements were observed in the chemical composition of the aqueous and ethanolic extracts. The anti-microbial activities observed indicated that biological activities were dependent on the types of extractants and the concentrations of principles present such as alkaloids and tannins. These activities were comparable to those obtained for ampicilin and gentamycin. The susceptibility of the microorganisms to the different A. africana leaf samples demonstrated its anti-bacterial and anti-fungal potentials and validated its use as an anti-microbial agent in ethnoveterinary medicine. Further investigations are required on their efficacies as phytobiotics in animal production.

Developmental expression patterns and association analysis of sheep KAP8.1 and KAP1.3 genes in Chinese Merino sheep.

Abstract: The keratin-associated protein (KAP) is one of the main structural proteins of wool fibre, which is responsible for the major structural and mechanical properties of the wool fibre. Here, the quantitative real-time PCR was used to investigate the developmental changes of KAP8.1 and KAP1.3 mRNA expression levels in skin tissue of Chinese Merino lambs. In addition, the genetic variations of sheep KAP8.1 and KAP1.3 genes and their associations with wool traits were also tested by least square means in 197 adult Chinese Merino sheep. The results showed that the developmental expression patterns of KAP8.1 and KAP1.3 genes were similar, presenting the highest levels at day 0 followed by decline, the sheep KAP1.3 was highly expressed in the skin, while the KAP8.1 was weakly expressed. Moreover, association analysis showed that polymorphisms at both KAP8.1 and KAP1.3 loci were associated with fiber diameter (P = 0.021 and 0.001, respectively). In detail, individuals with KAP8.1 BC genotype were significantly smaller fibre diameter than those of individuals with genotype AB (P<0.01) and BB (P<0.05), individuals with KAP1.3 AA genotype were significantly smaller fibre diameter than those of individuals with genotype AB (P<0.05) and BB (P<0.01). In addition, the combined genotypes of KAP8.1-KAP1.3 genes seem to improve the association, and the optimal combined genotype of KAP8.1-KAP1.3 genes was BC-AA.

Effect of feeding a mixture of plants containing secondary metabolites and peppermint oil on rumen fermentation, microbial profile and nutrient utilization in buffaloes

Abstract: A mixture of plants (mix) and peppermint oil (PO) were evaluated in fistulated buffaloes in 3×3 latin square design to study their effect on rumen fermentation, microbial profile, microbial protein synthesis and nutrients utilization. The plant mixture consisted of leaves of mango (Mangifera indica), jamun (Eugenia jambolana), guava (Psidium guajava), seed pulp of harad (Terminalia chebula) and fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) in equal proportions and was fed @ 40 g (dried) /100 kg BW, while peppermint oil was supplemented @ 2 ml/100 kg BW. There was no difference in postprandial changes in pH and total volatile fatty acids in rumen liquor among groups. The proportion of propionate was significantly lower in mix as compared to control and PO supplemented groups. The ammonia nitrogen (mg/dl) was lower in mix fed group as compared to control, whereas, total-N, TCA precipitable-N, activities (IU/mg protein) of carboxy-methylcellulase, xylanase and acetylestrase and protozoa population were similar in all the groups. Real time PCR studies indicated an increase of about 9- and 7-folds in total bacteria and Fibrobater succinogenes populations and a 30-fold decrease in Ruminococcus flavefaciens population with no change in fungal population by mix supplementation. The PO supplementation decreased about 7- and 1.5– folds in fungal and R. flavefaciens populations, whereas about F. succinogenes population showed 6-fold increase as compared to control. The concentrations of purine derivatives in urine were similar in all the groups reflecting similar microbial protein synthesis. The dry matter, TDN and DCP intakes and nutrients digestibility, except that of ether extract were not affected by the feed additives. These results indicated that dietary supplementation of mix and peppermint oil at the present level had no adverse effect on rumen fermentation pattern, microbial protein synthesis and nutrient digestibility in buffaloes.

Characterization and evaluation of Pashmina producing Changthangi goat of Ladakh

Abstract: Changthangi is a well recognized breed of goat popular for its valuable produce called pashmina The breeding tract of this goat is in the Changthang area of Leh district of Jammu & Kashmir State and is adjacent to Tibet The breed is well adapted to the local cold arid agro-climatic conditions of the region and is reared mainly by a nomad known as ‘Changpa’ The fibre produced by this breed is the prime source for the world-class shawl industry of Kashmir The study was carried out in 15 strata comprising 50 villages and their adjoining areas distributed throughout the breeding tract of the breed The information collected include nature and type of native environment of the breeding tract, managemental practices, different physical characteristics like body colour, head profile, ears, horns, coat characteristics, body measurement traits; production traits like body weight at different ages, Pashmina production and quality traits, dairy performance, carcass characteristics and reproduction traits of Changthangi goat Pashmina is unique among the animal fibres for its warmth, lightness and better ability to absorb dyes and moisture compared to mohair and wool In addition to pashmina, this goat is also reared for chevon, milk, manure, pelt and even carriage The number of this goat is presently in decline and restricted mainly to Changthang area Changthang region has harsh climatic dryness (with very low rainfall) and temperature varies from–40°C to +40°C The majority of the animals have white coat, though brownish red, fawn, grey and black animals are also seen The horns are brown and mostly curved in shape The average pashmina production was 24860±418 g/animal The overall fine hair, guard hair, dusting loss percentages, fibre length, guard hair length, scouring yield and fibre diameter were 6236±256%, 3198±294%, 1218±140%, 409±004 cm, 5690±280 mm 7052±151% and 1199±022µ, respectively The major breeding season is July- November The information generated from this study shall be of immense help in devising scientific improvement programmes for this breed