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The present study analyses the effect of age at first calving (AFC) on future fertility and productivity in Murrah buffaloes. The data of 314 buffalo heifers of animal farm section, ICAR‐CIRB, Hisar were collected over a period of 9 years from 2010 to 2018. The buffalo heifers were categorized into six groups according to the AFC named as 30–35, 36–41, 42–47, 48–53, 54–59 and 60–65 months. The influence of AFC on standard lactation milk (SLMY), peak yield (PY), days in milk (DIM), calving to first service, service per conception, calving to conception interval (CCI) and calving interval till fifth lactation were studied. The study revealed poor productive traits in buffalo heifers calved at younger age (30–35 months) during first parity. The productive value positively corresponded with increase in AFC. During successive lactations, higher mean milk yield (SLMY and PY) was found in groups with 36–41, 42–47 and 48–53 months. The mean number of services per conception was lower in buffalo heifers with 36–41 and 42–47 months following first calving till fifth lactation. Similarly, the said groups had lower mean calving to first service, CCI and CI up to fifth lactation. The survival rate was higher in heifers with AFC 36–41, 42–47, 48–53 and 54–59 months than with AFC 30–35 and 60–65 months. The buffalo heifers with 36–41 and 42–47 months of AFC had higher survival rate and better productive and reproductive traits till fifth parity in the current study. The study concluded that a minimum ideal AFC of 36–41 months yielded the highest productive gain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Buffaloes have great potential to be developed as one of the main dairy animals in Sri Lanka because of their higher adaptability to local conditions compared to European dairy cattle breeds. Processing dairy products such as curd, cheese, and yoghurt from buffalo milk has several advantages due to its greater quantities of total solids, solid-nonfat, and protein. However, milk composition and coagulation properties largely depend on the breed. Therefore, this research aimed to investigate the milk composition of three major buffalo breeds in Sri Lanka. The milk of the Lanka buffalo contained 18.1% total solids, 10.7% solid non-fat (SNF), 7.5% fat, 4.9% protein, 4.9% lactose, and 0.9% minerals. The milk of the Murrah crossbreed contained 15.4% total solids, 10.1% SNF, 5.3% fat, 4.2% protein, 5.1% lactose, and 1.1% minerals. The milk of the Nili-Ravi crossbreed contained 16.6% total solids, 10.2% SNF, 6.4% fat, 4.1% protein, 4.9% lactose, and 1.1% minerals. The results indicate that milk composition varies among the Introduction The milk production of the world is supplied by only breeds in which the milk of the Lanka buffalo has significantly higher amounts of total solids, SNF, and fat. Protein, lactose, and mineral contents do not vary signiticantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper presents a comparative analysis of the physio-chemical properties of milk from three different buffalo breeds in Haryana, namely Murrah, Nilli-Ravi, and Surti. The study aimed to evaluate various parameters including fat content, solid not fat (SNF), total solids, protein content, density, lactose content, titratable acidity, freezing point, pH, and specific gravity. A total of 60 buffaloes, 20 from each breed, were selected for the study, and milk samples were collected twice a day, in the morning and evening. The analysis revealed significant differences among the three buffalo breeds in terms of their milk composition. The Murrah breed exhibited the highest fat content (8.02), while the Nilli-Ravi had the lowest (8.14). For SnF values, Murrah shows highest values of 9.41 and Surti buffalo shows lowest 8.78. Similarly, variations were observed in other parameters across different breeds. These results can assist in breed selection for improved milk production, processing, and product development. Furthermore, the data obtained can serve as a valuable resource for dairy industry stakeholders, regulatory bodies, and researchers in the field of dairy science and technology. Future studies could explore the relationship between physio-chemical properties and milk yield, as well as investigating the impact of these variations on the processing and quality of dairy products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The total milk production of India is 209.96 MT out of which 45% is contributed by the indigenous buffalo and due to their high producing virtue, the prevalence of mastitis is 5–20%. Despite the increasing level of technological advancement, mastitis is still an issue of concern for dairy industry in India as well as across the world. Therefore, the present study aimed to identify the SNPs and associate them with the incidence of clinical mastitis in Murrah buffalo using the ddRAD sequencing approach taking mastitis incidence data of 96 Murrah buffaloes. A total of 246 million quality controlled reads were obtained with an average alignment rate of 99.01% and at a read depth of 10, quality controlled SNPs obtained were 18,056. The logistic regression model was used and a total of seven SNPs were found significantly associated (p < 0.001) with mastitis incidence and seven genes were identified viz., NCBP1, FOXN3, TPK1, XYLT2, CPXM2, HERC1, and OPCML. The majority of them were having tumor suppressing action, related to immunogenetics or glycolytic and energy production. Conclusively, the SNPs identified in this study may be useful for future studies on mastitis incidence in Murrah buffalo and the SNP associations can be further validated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate and unbiased assessment of genetic parameters of milk and milk composition traits play an important role in formulating breeding program for genetic improvement of Murrah buffaloes. In this study, data spread over 28 years were utilized to estimate genetic parameters of traits viz., 305 d milk yield (305MY), 305 d fat yield (305FY), 305 d solid not fat yield (305SNFY), milk fat percentage (fat%) and solid not fat percentage (SNF) percentage (SNF%) in Murrah buffaloes kept at ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal. Bayesian multiple-trait analysis was done using animal model and Gibbs sampling to estimate (co)variance components. Posterior means of heritability and posterior standard deviation for 305MY, 305FY, 305SNFY, fat% and SNF% were 0.18 ± 0.05, 0.17 ± 0.05, 0.18 ± 0.05, 0.07 ± 0.03 and 0.15 ± 0.06 and posterior means of repeatability estimates along with posterior standard deviation for corresponding traits were 0.33 ± 0.04, 0.32 ± 0.04, 0.33 ± 0.04, 0.14 ± 0.02 and 0.30 ± 0.04, respectively. Estimates of genetic correlation varied from −0.080 (305MY and fat %) to 0.999 (305MY and 305SNFY). Permanent environmental correlations varied from −0.060 (305MY and SNF%) to 0.999 (305FY and 305SNFY). This study indicated that all considered traits except fat% have ample genetic variability which can be exploited for selection and genetic improvement of Murrah buffaloes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selection of Murrah buffaloes based on production, reproduction, and health traits play an important role in sustainable genetic improvement. With the aim to construct an index comprising of production, reproduction and health traits of Murrah buffaloes, the production and reproduction data during a 50-year span (1971–2020) and for health traits data of 27 years (1994–2020) were analyzed. Various three, four, five, and six trait combinations of production, reproduction, and health traits were explored for construction of performance indices. The income and expenditure method was used to calculate relative economic values (REV) for traits under consideration. A total of 37 performance indices were constructed using a multi-trait combination of production, reproduction, and health traits. Out of 37 indices, the (ADMY-PY-DO-AFC-FF) based index was identified as the best, with 78%, 2%, and 20% weightage given to production, reproduction, and female fertility, respectively. Furthermore, when REVs of traits were increased by 25% and 50%, there was no change observed in the relative importance of traits in the best index, indicating that the index was robust to substantial increases in economic values. Therefore, it is recommended that the above constructed composite selection index can be employed in selection of female buffaloes to achieve sustainable genetic gain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present investigation was to evaluate the impact of methionine at different concentrations (2.0 mM and 2.5 mM) on the seminal parameters before and after cryopreservation of extended Murrah bull semen. Thirty-six ejaculates, collected with the aid of an artificial vagina twice a week from six Murrah bulls, were included in the study. Each ejaculate was diluted in a Tris-citric-acid-fructose-egg-yolk-glycerol (TFYG) extender keeping 80 million sperm per mL and split into three equal aliquots, which were supplemented with methionine {0.0, 2.0 and 2.5 mM; Treatment C, T1 and T2, respectively), filled in 0.25 mL straws, cooled to and equilibrated for 4 h at 4° C, and then frozen in LN2 vapour. Frozen straws were thawed at 37°C for 30 seconds in a water bath for the post-thaw evaluation. Sperm motility, percent live sperm, sperm abnormalities, in-vitro fertility tests (HOST and CMPT), and enzyme leakage (AST, ALT) were evaluated at both post-dilution and post-thaw stages. The results revealed that the addition of methionine, at both 2.0 mM and 2.5 mM concentrations significantly (P<0.05) improved sperm motility, sperm livability, and HOS-positive spermatozoa. Further, the sperm abnormalities and enzyme leakage were significantly (P<0.05) lower in methionine-treated groups than in control group. The results were the best with 2.5 mM methionine supplementation. In conclusion, the study showed that methionine at a concentration of 2.5 mM exhibited superior protection of sperm structures and functions as compared to 2.0 mM methionine and the control group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dietary mix and host species have both been shown to have a significant impact on rumen microbial diversity, enteric methane emission and animal performance. The goal of this study was to see how the roughage concentrate ratio 70:30 (Low concentrate; LC) vs 40:60 (High concentrate; HC) and the host species crossbred cattle vs buffalo affected rumen microbial diversity, enteric methane emissions and nutrient utilization. Dry matter intake (kg/d) and dry matter percent digestibility were considerably (p < 0.05) higher in the HC ration and buffalo compared to LC ration and crossbred cattle, respectively. Both dietary mix and host species had a substantial (p < 0.05) impact on intake of various nutrients, including organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), ether extract (EE), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF). Increased concentrate proportion in the ration improved nitrogen balance, resulting in increased average daily gain and considerably reduced methane (g/d) output (p < 0.05). Furthermore, 16S rRNA genes were sequenced using Oxford Nanopore Technology (ONT) and subsequently annotated using the Centrifuge workflow to uncover ruminal bacterial diversity. Firmicutes was considerably (p < 0.01) greater in the LC diet, whereas, Bacteroidetes was higher in the HC ration. Genus Prevotella dominated all rumen samples, and buffalo fed LC ration had significantly (p < 0.01) higher Oscillospira abundance. At the species level, simple sugar-utilizing bacteria such as Prevotella spp. and Selenomonas ruminantium predominated in the crossbred cattle, but fibrolytic bacteria such as Oscillospira guilliermondii were statistically (p < 0.01) more abundant in the buffalo. Overall, dietary mix and host species have both been shown to have a significant impact on rumen microbial diversity, enteric methane emission and animal performance, however, host species remained a major driving force to change ruminal community composition as compared to roughage concentrate ratio under similar environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eighteen healthy Murrah buffalo calves of either sex aged 6-8 months, maintained at Buffalo Research Station (BRS), Venkataramannagudem (Andhra Pradesh, India), were randomly selected and housed in three separate pens for a period of 90 days, from August 2022 to October 2022. Calves of first, second and third group were reared on concrete flooring (T1), rubber mat flooring (T2) and soil flooring (T3), respectively. The overall mean rectal temperature (°F) differed significantly (P < 0.01) and followed a trend T3 < T1 < T2. The overall mean pulse rate and respiration rate also differed significantly (P < 0.01) and followed a trend T3 < T2 < T1. The overall mean skin health score of T1 (1.52 ± 0.04) was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than T3 (1.29 ± 0.04) and T2 (1.36 ± 0.05), which were statistically similar. The overall mean heel erosions of T1 (0.64 ± 0.07) were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than T3 (0.33 ± 0.07) but didn't differ from T2 (0.48 ± 0.08). In the last fortnight, the average hoof concavity score of T1 (1.00 ± 0.01) was significantly (P = 0.05) higher than T3 (0.33 ± 0.21), but didn't differ significantly from T2 (0.50 ± 0.22). The average hoof overgrowth score at the end of study was significantly (P = 0.05) higher in T3 (1.00 ± 0.01) than T1 (0.33 ± 0.21), but didn't differ significantly from T2 (0.50 ± 0.22). It was concluded that rubber mat and soil flooring is better than concrete flooring as they maintain the vitals in normal range and cause less damage to the skin and hoof health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The present study was conducted to study the resilience capacity towards changing climate of a farming community who reared specifically Murrah buffaloes in their livestock production system for their livelihood. As the study area was breeding tract of Murrah buffalo, hence in-depth study of resilience was performed in frequent changing climate. Methods: In order to assess the resilience capacity and their relation with socioeconomic characteristic, total 320 Murrah buffalo farmers across four districts in India's Trans-Gangetic Plain, data were gathered using focused group discussions, PRA tools and in person interviews. Statistical tools such as principal component analysis for index development, cumulative square root methods for categorization of respondents and regression analysis were performed for exploring relationship. Result: Result depicted that majority of the farmers has medium level of climate resilience index score i.e. 0.456. Further, it was found that farmer's involvement in social institute such as, gram panchayat, agriculture and dairy co-operative society, self-help group, farmers' association and others affected their resilience capacity in changing climatic scenario. The need for better technology inclusion and access to more formal systems of finance is necessary to increase the overall resilience capacity of households. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to deduce the effect of parity and calving season on the resumption of ovarian cyclicity in post-partum Murrah buffaloes. For this study, 102 Murrah buffaloes (primparous: 21; pluriparous: 81) calved between August 2015 and February 2016 were examined by transrectal ultrasonography. The first group of buffaloes between 26- days post-partum were taken and thereafter animals calved every next 10 days were grouped and added. Animals thus progressed and adjudged in 26-35, 36-45, 46-55, 56-65, 66-75, 76-85 and 86-95 days post-partum with an average of 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80 and 90 days post-partum, respectively. The day of second examination at 10 days interval of first group of animals also had first examination of second group and the same was followed for all study groups till cyclicity was confirmed in all study animals. In this investigation, 40.20, 65.69 and 81.37 % buffaloes resumed cyclicity within 30, 60 and 90 days post-partum, respectively. Significant (p < 0.0001) difference in resumption of cyclicity between primiparous and pluriparous buffaloes was observed. Onset of cyclicity in pluriparous buffaloes (37.24 ± 1.83 days post-partum) differed significantly (p = 0.0001) than primiparous (59.61 ± 6.10 days post-partum). Also, the onset of cyclicity was evident (p < 0.0001) during pre-breeding (n = 60) and resumption of ovarian cyclicity showed a significant trend (p < 0.0001) in relation to days post-partum. In summary, resumption of ovarian cyclicity differs significantly with parity and season of calving in post-partum Murrah buffaloes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Buffalo is the second source of milk in the world, and its milk is rich in nutritive components. It is well-known that breed influences milk composition. This work aimed to compare the detailed milk composition of three buffalo breeds (Murrah, Nili-Ravi, and Mediterranean) housed under the same environmental conditions. Mediterranean buffalo milk showed a significantly higher content of fat, protein, and some fatty acids. Moreover, the milk from the Mediterranean breed was characterized by the highest content of sphingomyelin (SM), cholesterol, and lanosterol. However, the Murrah buffalo milk contained the highest amount of total unsaturated fatty acids, phosphatidylinositol, and whey proteins. Furthermore, the Nili-Ravi buffalo milk was characterized by the highest content of total saturated fatty acids, phosphatidylglycerol, squalene, lathosterol, stigmasterol, beta-sitosterol, and casein fractions. Nevertheless, the lactose and amino acid profiles of the milk remained almost similar across the three buffalo breeds. The generated results in this study enable a comprehensive understanding of the milk constituent variability that is linked to buffalo breeds, which may support the acquirement of essential scientific knowledge on milk ingredient–processing interactions that will offer a foundation of knowledge for Chinese dairy processors in terms of milk processability and innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel study on identification of critical heat stress zone (CHSZ) taking 20 years data was carried out in Indian buffaloes considering the effect of temperature humidity index-THI on milk production and composition traits. More than 3 lakh daily milk yield records (DMY); 9864 records each of monthly test day fat% (MTDF%) and SNF% (MTDSNF%) and meteorological data were collected from ICAR-NDRI and ICAR-CSSRI, Karnal, respectively. THI model [THI = (0.55× Tdb + 0.2× Tdp) × 1.8 + 32 + 17.5] by National Research Council in 1971 was used for computing THI. The year was classified into: Heat Stress Zone (HSZ) and Non-Heat Stress Zone (NHSZ) based on the trends of rising THI and declining milk production and composition traits. For DMY, NHSZ was 1st October to 9th April and HSZ was 10th April-30th September. For composition traits, October-March was NHSZ and April-September the HSZ. Within the HSZ regression analysis was conducted to find the zone where maximum drop in traits occur per unit rise in THI. A maximum decline in DMY 92.20 gram was observed during 15th August-14th September; identified as CHSZ for DMY. Similarly, maximum drop in MTDF% (b = −0.052) and MTDSNF% (b = −0.0114) observed during July-August, considered as CHSZ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A population is continuously facing the changing environment and its directly influencing the production of animal so to adopt these changes population must be flexible and have sufficient variability to overcome the adverse affects of environment. The evaluation of animals in terms of production performance traits along with impact of inbreeding coefficient is essential to formulate breeding and selection strategies for higher genetic improvement. Methods: Genealogy data of 6429 animals maintained at ICAR-NDRI, Karnal, India was analyzed by web-based POPREP application tool (http:// poprep.tzv.fal.de) and ENDOG V5.8 used to study the population structure and genetic diversity and regression model to study the effect of inbreeding on first lactation productive traits in Murrah buffaloes. Result: The result indicated that 91.91% of the individuals had known pedigree. The maximum generation traced was 13 with mean, full and equivalent complete generation as 5.93, 1.67 and 3.25 respectively. The average generation interval was 8.28 years and longer for the sire-son pathway and 2.16% was average inbreeding in whole population. The average genetic diversity loss was 2.10% indicated that the population has been stable with sufficient diversity. The study also revealed non significant effect of inbreeding on all first lactation traits. The low inbreeding was firstly due to introduction of new genetic variant and culling of animals avoiding mating of related ones and secondly due to incompleteness of pedigree in earlier years. This can be used as a base line information of phenomic needs to be generated before applying genomics tools in particular herd to be used as reference population in future for genomic selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The DNA methylation events mark a major epigenetic change in the genome, reflecting non‐genetic disease developments and varied phenotypes. The water buffalo is a dairy production animal with wide agro‐climatic distribution in India. Breed‐wise the coat color of water buffalo varies from ash‐gray to jet black. A typical pigmentation pattern is found in one of the breeds of North India, Nili Ravi, with variedly distributed white patches. The DNA methylation pattern could potentially reveal the epigenetic factors responsible for the pigmentation patterns. To address this question, the DNA isolated from the skin tissues of Nili Ravi with varied white pigmentation and black Murrah buffaloes was subjected to reduced representation bisulfite sequencing. DNA methylation analysis revealed, 68.44%, 63.39%, and 47.94% of the promoter regions were hypermethylated in Nili Ravi over‐white versus Murrah, Nili Ravi under‐white versus Murrah, and Nili Ravi under‐white versus Nili Ravi over‐white, respectively. Major genes identified to be differentially methylated among over‐white and under‐white skin tissues in Nili Ravi included TBX2, SNAI2, HERC2, and CITED1. Overall the results have indicated differential methylation patterns to be potentially involved in hyper or hypopigmentation in Nili Ravi and Murrah buffaloes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present study was planned to assess dietary supplementation of rumen protected methionine (RPM) peripartum on blood profile and postpartum reproductive outcome in 18 multiparous Murrah buffaloes. Animals were randomly assigned to 3 treatment groups of 6 each, and fed diets supplemented with RPM 20 g day-1 (Group 1); 10 g day-1 (Group 2), and standard control diet (Group 3). RPM feeding was introduced from day 30 prepartum till day 60 postpartum. Progesterone, estradiol, IGF-I, and biochemical parameters were estimated starting day 21 prepartum to day 57 postpartum. Size of dominant follicle and corpus luteum were assessed across the treatment days postpartum. Progesterone concentration varied from 0.32±0.06 to 3.85±0.44 ngml-1, 0.41±0.05 to 2.03±0.12 ngml-1, and 0.35±0.08 to 1.82±0.11 ngml-1 in Groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively. Corresponding estradiol levels ranged from 16.00±1.09 to 243.16±4.67 pgml-1, 13.16±0.60 to 228±5.06 pgml-1, and 13.66±0.66 to 218.9±4.36 pgml-1 and IGF-I from 77.83±8.81 to 149.50±4.69 ngml-1, 77.33±2.95 to 128.41±3.85 ngml-1, and 62.66±2.20 to 124.50±5.57 ngml-1 in Groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively. Variations in blood glucose, BUN and creatinine were observed across the days in all the treatment groups. Estrogen to progesterone (E/P) ratio varied (p<0.05) among the treatment groups. Lower values of E/P in Group 1 were depictive of estrogen dominance, whereas higher E/P in Group 3 signified dominance of progesterone. Conception rates in Groups 1, 2 and 3 were 83.33%, 50.00% and 33.33%, respectively. Varying (p<0.05) progesterone and estradiol levels were indicative of positive role of dietary RPM. Dietary RPM improved follicular structures and increased production and reproduction outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study was conducted to estimate the association of age at first calving (AFC) with first lactation traits as well as lifetime performance traits in Murrah buffaloes. Methods: Data on first lactation and life time performance of Murrah buffaloes (n = 679), maintained at Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes, Hisar, India during the period 1983 through 2017, were deduced to calculate heritability estimates, genetic and phenotypic correlation of different first lactation and lifetime traits. The univariate animal model was fitted to estimate variance components and heritability separately for each trait, while bivariate animal models were set to estimate genetic and phenotypic correlations between traits under study. Results: The heritability was high for first peak milk yield (FPY, 0.64±0.08), moderate for AFC (0.48±0.07) and breeding efficiency (BE 0.39±0.09). High genetic correlations of first lactation total milk yield (FLTMY) with first lactation standard milk yield (FLSMY, 305 days or less), FPY, and first lactation length (FLL) was seen. Likewise, genetic correlation of AFC was positive with FLTMY, FLL, first dry period (FDP), first service period (FSP), first calving interval (FCI), herd life (HL) and productive days (PD). Significant phenotypic correlation of FLTMY was observed with HL, productive life (PL), PD, total lifetime milk yield (LTMY), standard lifetime milk yield (standard LTMY). Moreover, positive genetic and phenotypic correlation of FPY was observed with HL, PL, PD, total LTMY and standard LTMY. Conclusion: This study reports that AFC had positive genetic correlation with FDP, FSP, FCI, and unproductive days while, negative association of AFC was observed with FLSMY, PL, total LTMY, standard LTMY, and BE. This suggests that reduction of AFC would results in improvement of lifetime performance traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quality of spermatozoa at post-thaw stage depends on many factors including the level of lipid per-oxidation (LPO) and the antioxidant profile of the ejaculates at fresh stage. Thus, the present investigation was done to evaluate discard rate of semen ejaculates at fresh and post-thaw stages in association with various semen quality parameters in Murrah buffalo. A total of 79 ejaculates from seven Murrah buffalo bulls formed part of the study. Following application of rigorous prescribed selection criteria it was observed that 17.72% (14/79) ejaculates were discarded at fresh stage due to poor quality. The initially selected ejaculates were processed for cryopreservation as per the minimum standard protocols. The study show satisfactory results for 31 (47.69%) samples for inclusion in the further AI programme (discard rate of 52.31% (34/65) at post thaw. The mean post-thaw motility (PTM; %) of the passed ejaculates was found to be 44.2±1.0. In conclusion, study results show efforts to minimize LPO and enhance total antioxidant capacity (TAC) at various processing stages shall play a vital role in reducing discard rate of the semen samples in buffalo bulls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The evaluation of bull fertility essentially involves semen analysis and conception rates among inseminated females. The conventional evaluation is relatively imprecise, time consuming and subjected to individual variations, while computer assisted sperm analysis (CASA) is a quite faster, precise and objective tool to identify differences in sperm motility and velocity/kinematics attributes and avoids subjective errors. The present study was planned to evaluate and compare the CASA traits of fresh and frozenthawed semen of Gir and Murrah bulls in Tris extender without and with different antioxidant additives by adopting Biovis CASA. Methods: The semen ejaculates with >75% initial motility from 3 Gir and 3 Murrah bulls were split-diluted at 100 million sperm per ml using Tris-citrate-fructose-yolk-glycerol (TFYG) extender without (control) and with three antioxidant additives, viz., Mifepriston (10 µg/ml), Sericin (5 mg/ml) and Taurine (4 mg/ml), were filled in French mini straws and frozen in liquid nitrogen vapour using a programmable biofreezer. The freshly diluted and frozen-thawed semen samples were assessed for sperm motion characteristics, velocity/kinematics using Biovis CASA. Result: The mean percentages of total motile spermatozoa, irrespective of additives, in freshly diluted and frozen-thawed semen were 85.50±0.92 and 48.76±1.69 for Gir bulls and 85.03±0.72 and 52.61±1.46 for Murrah bulls, respectively. The mean total motile as well as rapid and slow progressive motile sperm percentage were significantly enhanced by fortification of TFYG extender with Mifepristone than in control extender, while values for Sericin and Taurine were intermediary and statistically similar to Mifepristone. The per cent decline in total motile sperm due to freezing-thawing was more or less same in both the breeds for all the extender additives, being lowest in Mifepristone supplemented extender in cattle (32.27 vs 48.81%) and buffalo (31.27 vs 43.14%) semen. The rapid and slow progressive motile sperm also followed the same pattern. The values of VAP and VCL were significantly (p<0.05) higher and VSL lower in Murrah than Gir breed at post-thaw stage. The overall mean linearity (%), straightness (%), beat-cross frequency (hz), lateral head displacement (µm), wobbling index (%), dancing velocity (µm2/s) and dancing mean (µm2/s) of sperm were higher in Murrahs than in Gir semen with significant (p<0.01) difference at post-thaw stage. The fortification of extender with Mifepristone improved all these traits at post-thaw stage compared to other additives and control TFYG extender. The per cent decline in these traits due to freezing stress was much lower in buffalo sperm than the cattle sperm particularly with Mifepristone fortification. It was concluded that freezing-thawing stress adversely affected the motion and kinematics of both cattle and buffalo sperm and that Tris extender fortified with antioxidant additives, particularly Mifepristone @ 10 µg/ml, protected sperm from adverse effect of dilution and cryopreservation with improved post-thaw sperm quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to determine the fatty acid (FA) composition and compare FA-based nutritional indices/ratios of colostrum and milk obtained on the 30th, 60th, and 90th day of lactation from 27 Murrah and 18 "Murrah × Carabao" crossbred buffaloes. The major saturated FA (SFA) in colostrum and milk is palmitic acid (C16:0), comprising 32-33% by weight of total FAs. Other important SFAs - myristic acid (C14:0), stearic acid (C18:0), and lauric acid (C12:0) - were lower (P < 0.05) in colostrum than in milk. Oleic acid (C18:1-n9c), a monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), is the second most abundant FA in colostrum (28.5%) and milk (18.0-18.8%). Arachidonic acid (C20:4-n6, AA) is the dominant polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) in colostrum (0.92%) and milk (0.42-0.45%). Conjugated linoleic acid (C18:2-c9t11, CLA) was higher in colostrum (0.64%) than in milk (0.14-0.16%). Colostrum and milk had a very low PUFA/SFA ratio (0.02-0.06: 1). The linoleic acid (C18:2-n6, LA) to a-linolenic acid (C18:3-n3, ALA) ratio was higher in colostrum (3.21: 1) than in milk (0.62-1.55: 1). The omega-6 (LA and AA) to omega-3 [ALA and docosahexaenoic acid (C22:6-n3, DHA)] or n-6/n-3 ratio was more balanced for milk (1.76-2.34: 1) than colostrum (3.37: 1). Colostrum had lower atherogenicity (2.53 vs. 4.50-4.66), lower thrombogenicity (2.68 vs. 4.48-4.59), and higher health-promoting index (0.39 vs. 0.21-0.22) than milk. The hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic (h/H) ratio was higher for colostrum (0.64: 1) than milk (0.34-0.36: 1). Except for AA, the FA composition of colostrum and milk were not significantly different between Murrah and "Murrah × Carabao" crosses (P > 0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 9 months pregnant Murrah buffalo with cervico-vaginal prolapse was presented and it was treated by epidural anaesthesia along with rope truss technique followed by administration of Ceftiofur sodium @ 2.2mg/kg IM for 5 days to prevent secondary infection and herbal remedies arjun bark and hadjod. The case was recovered uneventfully. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Cientifica de la Facultade de Veterinaria is the property of Universidad del Zulia, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista Cientifica de la Facultade de Veterinaria is the property of Universidad del Zulia, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista Cientifica de la Facultade de Veterinaria is the property of Universidad del Zulia, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista Cientifica de la Facultade de Veterinaria is the property of Universidad del Zulia, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Murrah breed of buffalo is an excellent dairy germplasm known for its superior milk quality in terms of milk fat and solids-not-fat (SNF); however, it is often reported that Indian buffaloes had lower lactation and fertility potential compared to the non-native cattle of the country. Recent techniques, particularly the genome-wide association studies (GWAS), to identify genomic variations associated with lactation and fertility traits offer prospects for systematic improvement of buffalo. DNA samples were sequenced using the double-digestion restriction-associated DNA (RAD) tag genotyping-by-sequencing. The bioinformatics pipeline was standardized to call the variants, and single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) qualifying the stringent quality check measures were retained for GWAS. Over 38,000 SNPs were used to perform GWAS on the first two principal components of test-day records of milk yields, fat percentages, and SNF percentages, separately. GWAS was also performed on 305 days' milk yield; lactation persistency was estimated through the rate of decline after attaining the peak yield method, along with three other standard methods; and breeding efficiency, post-partum breeding interval, and age at sexual maturity were considered fertility traits. Significant association of SNPs was observed for the first principal component, explaining the maximum proportion of variation in milk yield. Furthermore, some potential genomic regions were identified to have a potential role in regulating milk yield and fertility in Murrah. Identification of such genomic regions shall help in carrying out an early selection of high-yielding persistent Murrah buffaloes and, in the long run, would be helpful in shaping their future genetic improvement programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An investigation was conducted to identify polymorphism in mannose-binding lectin 1 (MBL1) gene and its effect on udder health and performance traits in dairy cattle and buffalo of India. Candidate single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) c.2534G > A of MBL1 gene was genotyped by polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR–RFLP). All the possible genotypes for SNP c.2534G > A (GG, AG, and AA) were observed in the studied population. However, Sahiwal cows revealed dimorphic pattern (AG and GG). The effect of targeted SNP on incidence of mastitis was evaluated and found to be significant. Animals with GG genotype were less susceptible to clinical mastitis and had comparatively lower somatic cell score (SCS) in Hardhenu cattle (P < 0.01) and Murrah buffalo (P < 0.05). Animals having GG genotype also exhibited significantly (P < 0.05) lower age at first calving (AFC). AG genotyped Murrah buffalo animals revealed significantly higher second lactation milk yield (P < 0.01). GG genotype with SCS and AFC could therefore be exploited as a promising candidate marker for the genetic improvement of udder health and AFC in dairy animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Murrah buffalo suffering from dystocia due to a monster was referred to Veterinary Clinical Complex. On per vaginal examination, two heads and four forelimbs were present in the birth canal. A lot of manipulation was already had been done in the field therefore it was decided to go for caesarean section and a conjoint monster was delivered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dairy cows undergo dramatic changes in physiological, biochemical and metabolic homeostatic mechanisms during the transition period leading to stress and negative energy balance to the animal which in turn leads to decreased fertility. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the effect of supplementation of fermented yeast culture (FYC) on the metabolic profile and reproductive parameters of healthy t Murrah buffaloes during the transition period. Fourteen Murrah buffaloes with no history of reproductive problems under field conditions were selected and divided into two blocks (supplemented group and control group) based on yield, parity, body condition score, and predicted calving date. In the supplemented group, each animal was supplemented with 24 g/day FYC mixed in concentrate from −15th day pre-partum to 90th day post-partum in addition to basal ration. Energy balance of animals was assessed by estimation of blood metabolites (glucose, non-esterified fatty acids[NEFA], beta-hydroxybutyric acid [BHBA]), plasma lipid profile, viz., cholesterol, HDL, VLDL, and triglycerides at 15 days interval. Post-partum fertility was assessed to determine the onset of first post-partum heat, number of inseminations per conception, conception rate, and service period. Significantly higher plasma levels of glucose (p < 0.05) were observed in the supplemented group compared to the control at 45th, 60th, and 90th day post-partum, thus indicating positive effects on glucose level by FYC supplementation. Significantly (p < 0.05) lower levels of NEFA were observed in the supplemented group at 15th and 75th day post-partum than the control group. Significantly lower (p < 0.05) plasma levels of BHBA were observed in the supplemented group from 15th day post-partum till the end of experimental trial than in the control group. The supplemented group showed improved conception rate of the order of more than 10% compared to the control group. The service period was significantly (p < 0.05) less in the supplemented group (117.25 ± 4.81 days) in comparison to the control group (146.25 ± 4.81days). Overall post-partum conception rate was 85% in the supplemented group and 72.52% in the control group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ruminant livestock production processes are the major sources of methane production in agriculture sector triggering global environmental pollution. Above 90% of world buffalo population present in Asian countries, India ranks first and contributes significantly to the environmental pollution by enteric methane emissions. In this study, we examined the effect of dietary composite feed additive supplementation on ruminal methane production, nutrient utilization, milk production and immune status of buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis). Eighteen lactating Murrah (Bubalus bubalis) buffaloes at early stage of lactation were divided into two groups of nine animals and fed a composite feed additive [consisted of (%, w/w) dried and ground leaves of Cordia dichotoma and Holoptelea integrifolia, 31.4 each; garlic oil, 0.6; sodium nitrate, 3.1; magnesium sulphate, 8.4; mustard oil, 12.6 and cottonseed oil, 12.5] which contained an ideal combinations of methane inhibitors, alternate hydrogen sinks and rumen stimulating agents to treatment (CFA) group animals along with basal feed of chaffed green sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) fodder, chaffed wheat straw and concentrate mixture for maintenance and milk production. The results showed a decrease (44.6%) in methane concentration in exhaled air of CFA group buffaloes with increase (p < 0.05) in digestibility of feed in comparison to control (CON). Total digestible nutrient (TDN) content of the ration fed to buffaloes of CFA group was significantly (p < 0.05) increased. The daily milk yield, 6% fat corrected milk (FCM) yield and immune response were also increased (p < 0.05) in CFA group. The study suggests that the supplementation of composite feed additive was effective to reduce enteric methane emissions and improvement in production performance and immune status of buffaloes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to analyze the differences in behavior between groups of buffalo heifers reared in loose vrs. barn housing systems and fed on green and hay fodder during the autumn and hot season, to supplement the information for guidance of farmers on how to better manage their animals, increase thermal comfort and improve the feed conversion efficiency with efficient feed utilization. Twenty female buffalo heifers of about 12- 15monthsage were selected from the buffalo herd under Buffalo Research Centre, Department of Livestock Production and Management, College of Animal Sciences, CCS Haryana Agricultural University (LUVAS), Hisar. The animals were divided into four groups of 5 each based upon their average body weight and age. The experiment was installed for a period of 120 days (February 1 to May 31)to compare the effect of two housing and two feeding systems which were comprised of 4 treatment groups viz.: T1:Conventional barn + Hay and Concentrate mixture, T2: Conventional barn + Seasonal green fodder and Concentrate mixture,T :Loose housing + Seasonal 3 green fodder & Concentrate mixture, T : Loose housing + Hay and Concentrate mixture. Ingestion, rumination and 4 resting time in day and total time was significantly (P<0.05)effected between the housing systems. Total ingestion and total resting time was significantly (P<0.05) different between the feeding systems, whereas the Night resting time varied significantly (P<0.05) between both the housing and feeding systems. It concludes that when buffalo heifers have access to Loose housing on HAYfeeding in a Semi-intensive system under the climatic conditions of Hisar as they eat and ruminate more intensely than animals reared in Closed barn system fed with Green fodder. Thus, heifers prefer loose houseswhich is recommended for the animals to shelter them from direct solar radiation to ensure animal comfort, improved feed utilization and better feed conversion efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An investigation was conducted to detect single nucleotide polymorphism in Inhibin alpha gene (INHA) and to analyse the association between the observed polymorphisms with semen quality traits in Murrah buffalo bulls. Genomic DNA was isolated from blood samples of 103 bulls, the amplified PCR products were further subjected to polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Band patterns were characterised by the number of bands, mobility shifts and scored manually. Representative PCR products giving unique SSCP patterns were custom sequenced using automated ABI DNA Sequencer to confirm the mobility shift in each pattern. Sequence data were analysed using DNA Baser and Bio edit software Clustal omega multiple alignments for detecting single nucleotide polymorphisms in comparison to observed sequence with the Bubalus sbubalis INHA gene reference sequence. INHA gene, exon1 was monomorphic, while exon 2 was found to be polymorphic. For simple interpretation of SSCP patterns, INHA exon 2 was divided into two fragments. The first fragment of INHA exon 2 (INHA exon 2 FR1) revealed a transition at the C267119T position and a transversion at the G267033T position in the coding region in comparison to Bubalus bubalis reference sequence. The second fragment of INHA exon 2 (INHA exon 2 FR2) exhibited one transition at T266510C position in comparison to the Bubalus bubalis reference sequence. The SSCP variants of the first fragment of INHA exon2 had a significant effect on semen volume per ejaculate (P<0.05) and sperm concentration (P<0.01). The SSCP variants of the second fragment of INHA exon 2 had a significant effect on sperm concentration (P<0.01) and functional membrane integrity (P<0.05). The observed association between SSCP variants in INHA gene with semen volume per ejaculate, sperm concentration and functional membrane integrity suggests the possibility of using these genetic variants in INHA gene as prognostic markers for selecting Murrah bulls with high semen quality traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bull fertility is an important factor for genetic improvement; therefore prediction of fertility an early age of the bulls by using genetic markers is a goal for livestock breeding. Zinc finger protein280BY linked gene is predominantly expressed in testis and has a major role in spermatogenesis. An investigation was carried out to detect the genetic variants in the male specific region (MSY) of ZNF280BY gene and their association with semen quality traits in Murrah buffaloes. Polymerase Chain Reaction-Single Strand Conformation Polymorphism technique (PCR-SSCP) and DNA sequencing methods revealed three different SSCP band patterns (AA, BB, CC); one transition (C10375T) and an indel (insertion of T at 10460-10461). The associations of the genetic variants with semen volume, sperm concentration, Hypo Osmotic Swelling Test (HOST) in fresh and frozen semen were observed. AA and CC genotype bulls had high volume (P≤0.05) of semen per ejaculation than BB genotype bulls. BB genotype bulls had high sperm concentration (106/mL) per ejaculate in comparison to AA and CC genotype bulls (P≤0.05). AA and BB genotype bulls had a higher per cent of HOST (P≤0.05) reacted sperms of fresh semen and per cent acrosomal integrity of frozen semen in comparison to CC genotype bulls. The observed association between SSCP variants in MSY region of ZNF280BY gene with semen quality parameters indicated the possibilities of using ZNF280BY as a candidate gene for identification of markers for semen quality traits in Murrah buffaloes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation was conducted to analyze the effect of non-genetic factors on milk production traits of Murrah buffaloes. Data were collected from 2,67,599 daily milk yield (DMY) records of 445 buffaloes from 2001 to 2016 and analyzed using fixed linear least-squares analysis. The overall least-squares means for DMY, 305MY, TLMY, LL, PY and DPY were 7.66±0.01 kg, 2258.17±95.73kg, 2465.48±130.72 kg, 340.48±14.14 days, 13.17±0.45 kg and 63.45±7.26 days, respectively. Analysis of variance indicated significant effect (p<0.01) of period of birth, period of calving, parity and stage of lactation on DMY. Increasing trend was observed for DMY across the periods of calving. Parity had significant effect (p<0.05) on all the production variables except TLMY and the buffaloes were found to attain peak average production (10.13 kg) during second stage of lactation. All production traits had increasing trend across period of calving. Season of calving had significant effect (p<0.05) on PY and DPY. The results indicated that accurate estimation of the effect of non-genetic factors on production traits would help in developing effective management and selection strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to investigate the sensitivity and specificity of three methods for detecting the onset of cyclicity in post-partum Murrah buffaloes. The methods investigated were visual signs, transrectal ultrasonography, and serum progesterone (P4) assay. For this study, 102 post-partum Murrah buffalo cows were grouped for monitoring their ovarian activity. The first group of buffaloes was between 26 and 35 days post-partum. Thereafter, the buffalo cows that calved were grouped after every 10 days for the study sample. Thus, the study animals were adjudged between 26 and 35, 36-45, 46-55, 56-65, 66-75, 76-85, and 86-95 days post-partum with an average of 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, and 90 days post-partum, respectively. Visual estrus signs were monitored twice daily, and simultaneously, ultrasound examination was carried out at 10 days interval for accessing the presence of corpus luteum (CL). Serum P4 was estimated in the animals which were adjudged cyclic by ultrasound examination, and the assay was repeated after 10 days. The buffalo cows in estrus were inseminated artificially, and pregnancy status was assessed after 30 days post-insemination. In this study, the sensitivity and specificity of visual observation were low (39.37 and 70.73%, respectively) when compared to P4 assay (98.80 and 96.47%) and ultrasound examination (single, 97.59 and 97.59%; double, 100 and 100%), respectively. Furthermore, the sensitivity and specificity of single and double ultrasound examination and P4 assay were comparable. In conclusion, this study reports that single and double ultrasound examination and P4 assay are more efficient than visual observation in detecting the onset of ovarian cyclicity in post-partum Murrah buffaloes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was carried out on nine healthy mature breeding bulls (3 each of Gir, Surti and Murrah breed) to evaluate their fresh and frozen semen quality and their interrelationships. The ejaculates immediately after collection were evaluated for routine physicomorphological attributes, including HOS test. The ejaculates (n=72) having >75% initial motility were diluted @ 80 million sperm/ml using TFYG extender and the French mini straws filled were frozen in liquid nitrogen vapour using a programmable biofreezer. Thawing of straws was done at 37°C for 30 sec and assessed for freezability by conventional technique. All the cattle and buffalo bulls donated consistently normal thick creamy yellow and thick milky white semen, respectively. In Gir, Suti and Murrah bulls (n=24 ejaculate each) the seminal attributes such as ejaculate volume (6.69±0.17, 3.12±0.10 and 3.96±0.16 ml, p<0.01); initial motility (80.21±0.88, 84.58±0.60 and 84.38±0.76%, p<0.01); total sperm output/ejaculate (9013.85±265.32, 3935.49±259.63 and 5366.48±332.99 million, p<0.01) and live sperm (84.71±0.83, 86.17±0.78 and 86.79±0.79%, p<0.05) differed significantly. The mean percentages of post-thaw motile sperm (53.29±1.56, 58.33±1.43 and 59.58±1.20, p<0.01); live sperm (59.00±1.95, 67.00±1.59 and 68.42±1.66%, p<0.01); and HOS reactive sperm (48.25±0.78, 44.21±1.29 and 51.54±1.29%, p<0.01) in Gir, Surti and Murrah bulls semen also differed significantly. The variation among the bulls was significant for buffalo breeds in most of their fresh seminal attributes, except HOST, and for post-thaw motility, but not among Gir bulls. The important seminal attributes like motility, live sperm and HOS reactive sperm of fresh and frozen-thawed semen were significantly and positively interrelated in all three breeds of bulls (r = 0.40 to 0.81, p<0.05 to 0.01), suggesting that motility and HOST of fresh semen were good predictors of freezability of bovine semen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mastitis is an economically important disease causing great loss to dairy sector owing to its negative effect on production. Its multi factorial etiology makes it difficult to use prophylactic methods for control. Identification of genetic resistance mechanisms and selection for it is a potential strategy for mastitis control. The present study was done in 101 Murrah buffaloes to find the common causative agents of mastitis in buffaloes, to identify variants in exon 2 and 3' UTR of TLR 2 gene and to study their association with intramammary infection. The microbiological examination revealed Staphylococcus aureus to be most common causative organism followed by Streptococcus agalactiae. PCR-RFLP using Sau3AI and HpyCH4V for exon 2 and 3' UTR respectively resulted in polymorphic pattern for exon2, while 3' UTR resulted in monomorphic pattern. PCR RFLP Sau3AI genotypes of TLR2 exon 2 were found to be highly associated with mastitis resistance. AA genotype was found to be least susceptible, while AB genotype was found most frequent among affected buffaloes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted to identify the most suitable temperature humidity index (THI) model among seven reported THI models for analyzing the impact of thermal stress on monthly test day fat % (MTDF%), monthly test day SNF% (MTSNF%), monthly test day fat yield (MTDFY) and monthly test day SNF yield (MTDSNFY) of Murrah buffaloes at subtropical climatic conditions of Karnal, India. A total of 8868 MTDF% and 8606 MTDSNF% records from 1107 lactational records of Murrah buffaloes under five parities were included in the present study and weather information on dry bulb temperature (Tdb), wet bulb temperature (Twb) and relative humidity (RH in %) for the corresponding period of 20 years (March 1994- December 2013) were collected from ICAR-NDRI and ICAR-CSSRI, Karnal, respectively. The overall least-squares means for MTDF% ranged from 7.71 ± 0.067 in TD1 to 8.10 ± 0.08 in TD 9 and MTDSNF% ranged from 9.61 ± 0.01 in TD5 and TD 6 to 9.65 ± 0.01 in TD 8. The overall least squares means of MTDFY (g) ranged from 411.23 ± 14.74 to 745.98 ± 13.57 while for MTDSNFY (g) the value ranged from 491.90 ± 17.21 to 922.16 ± 15.17. Monthly average THI was computed for each of the seven models. The lowest monthly average THI value was found in January, while either May, June or July showed the highest average THI value for all seven THI models. Regression analysis was performed for identifying the best THI to assess the impact of heat stress on milk constituent traits under study anda negative association was found between the milk constituent traits and monthly average THI values.The THI model[THI = (0.55 x Tdb + 0.2 x Tdp) x 1.8 + 32 + 17.5]developed by NRC(1971)was identified as the most suitable THI model to assess the impact of heat stress on milk composition traits of Murrah indicating maximum decline in MTDF% (-0.005), MTDFY (-0.68 g),MTDSNF% (b=-0.0008) and MTDSNFY (-2.25 g) per unit rise in THI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Scientiarum: Animal Sciences is the property of Universidade Estadual de Maringa and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of chedu and mattha on growth performance of Murrah buffalo calves. To assess the effect of chedu and mattha on growth rate, 20 growing buffalo calves of around 1 year of age and approximately of same weights were selected and were divided into 4 treatment groups having 5 animals in each group. The animals had access to ad libitum berseem hay as the basal roughage T0 (Control), T1 (Administration of mattha @ 2% of body weight with salt @ 0.5% of mattha), T2 (Application of chedu on their body @ 150 g per animal), T3 (Administration of mattha and application of chedu). Body weight of all buffalo calves was recorded at 15 days interval during the experimental period. From 75th day of experiment, significant effect (P<0.05) was observed in body weight, heart girth and height at withers of treatment groups as compared to control group whereas, body length and paunch girth showed significant effect (P<0.05) on 90th day of experiment. The results further indicated that use of chedu and mattha improved the health status of the calves and helped to attain a comparatively higher body weight and an early puberty. It can be concluded on the basis of findings of present research work that the use of chedu and mattha may be recommended for supplementation of calves' diet, as it improves the health status of the calves and helps in the attainment of higher body weight and an early onset of puberty in the calves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation was conducted on records of 345 Murrah buffaloes maintained at Buffalo Research Centre (BRC), Hisar distributed over 20 years (1993-2012) to compare progeny of 61 sires. Three sire evaluation procedures [ordinary least squares (OLS), regressed least squares (RLS), and best linear unbiased prediction (BLUP)] based on estimated breeding value of phase traits such as ascending phase milk yield (APY), peak phase milk yield (PPY),descending phase milk yield (DPY)and stayablity trait such as stayablity life (STAYAB) in Murrah buffalo. The results indicated that sire number 26 had the highest merit computed by OLS, RLS and sire number 2 had the highest merit computed by BLUP method for APY. Product-moment correlations were comparatively lower than those of rank correlations barring a few exceptions. When comparison was made on the basis of coefficient of skewness, BLUP was found superior for APY, PPY, and DPY. When comparison was made on the basis of coefficient of kurtosis, OLS was better for APY and DPY whereas RLS was found superior for PPY and STAYAB. When coefficient of Determination, was considered OLS was found to be more accurate followed by RLS method for all the traits, whereas RLS method was most appropriate when coefficient of variation was considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate differences in efficiency of feed utilisation between buffalo calves with low and high residual feed intake (RFI) by comparing feed intake, nutrient digestibility, growth traits and blood metabolites. Eighteen male Murrah buffalo calves (aged 4–6 months; 70 ± 1.0 kg body weight) were fedad libitumwith a total mixed ration for 120 d. Based on linear regression models involving dry matter intake (DMI), average daily gain (ADG) and mid-test metabolic body size, calves were assigned into low and high RFI groups. The RFI varied from −0.33 to +0.28 kg DM/d with an average RFI of −0.14 and 0.14 kg DM/d in low and high RFI calves, respectively. Calves had a mean DMI of 1.9 and 2.4 kg/d and an ADG of 0.5 and 0.6 kg/d in low and high RFI groups, respectively. Low RFI calves ate 19.0% less DM each day and required significantly less metabolisable energy for maintenance compared with high RFI calves (12.5 vs. 16.7 MJ/d). Nutrient digestibility and nitrogen balance did not differ among low and high RFI calves. In more efficient animals (low RFI calves) higher (p < 0.05) plasma level of growth hormone, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), triiodothyronine (T3) and lower concentration of thyroxin hormone were detected. No significant differences in levels of insulin, hydroxyproline, plasma and urine creatinine, total protein and albumin between high and low RFI groups were found. Blood metabolites showed significant (p < 0.05) differences at initial and final stages of study in both groups. At final stage of study, RFI showed negative correlations with growth hormone, IGF-1, T3, urine creatinine and albumin. Low RFI buffalo calves are more efficient in feed utilisation and the differences in blood metabolites are probably due to differences in feed intake and body metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Data on ages at first mating and first calving of Murrah buffaloes to identify the effect of various non-genetic factors on these traits. Period and season were the fixed environmental effects considered for both the traits studied. The overall least-squares means for ages at first mating and calving were 1222.3 ± 11.0 and 1578.7 ± 20.3 days respectively. Period had highly significant (P<0.01) influence on both the traits studied, whereas, season had significant (P<0.05) effect on age at first calving alone. The age at first calving was the lowest in period 1 (1979 to 1982), which was significantly (P<0.05) different from the rest. The heritability estimates for ages at first mating and calving were 0.0499 ± 0.07 and 0.1648 ± 0.12 respectively. The genetic correlation of age at first calving with peak yield, days to attain peak yield, 305-day milk yield, lactation length, lactation milk yield, milk yield per day of lactation, service period, calving interval, dry period and number of services per conception were -0.214 ± 0.32, 0.013 ± 0.31, 0.089 ± 0.33, 0.584 ± 0.47, 0.166 ± 0.35, -0.177 ± 0.30, 0.576 ± 0.53, 0.563 ± 0.55, 0.276 ± 0.49 and 0.944 ± 0.83 respectively. The study revealed that the ages at first mating and calving observed in Murrah buffaloes at coastal region of Tamil Nadu is comparable to those reported in its breeding tract and elsewhere in India. A negative genetic correlation between age at first calving and milk yield per day of lactation indicated that the selection based on milk yield per day of lactation would lead to reduction in age at first calving with consequent increase of milk yield per day of lactation in future generations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted on 11 apparently healthy Murrah buffaloes, aged 8.18 ± 0.61 years and in 2nd to 6th lactation. The buffalo, exhibited estrus was served naturally and blood samples from each buffalo were collected after the sendee. On confirmation of pregnancy by rectal palpation, blood collection from that animal was continued at every fortnightly interval, during entire gestation, till parturition. If the inseminated buffalo expressed estrus at the next subsequent estrous cycle, it was excluded from the study. The results indicated that the average gestation length in Murrah buffaloes was 321 ± 2.65 days. The growth hormone exhibited increase with advancement in gestation. The FSH showed increasing trend from early to mid gestation, the levels were low during late gestation. The LH and estradiol exhibited increasing trend from early through late gestation. Higher concentration of progesterone was recorded during mid gestation.. Serum cortisol did not significantly differ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was taken up to measure the impact "Integrated Murrah Development Schemes (IMDS) on socio-economic status of the beneficiaries as well as on productive and reproductive performance of the Murrah buffaloes of the beneficiaries. 'Z' test analysis indicated that there was significant difference in socio-economic status of the beneficiaries and non beneficiaries viz; milk consumption, milk sale at 5 % level of probability, while; herd size, type of animal shed, material possession, milk production, annual income from dairying, annual gross income of the respondents at 1 % level of probability. Similarly, there was significant difference in productive and reproductive performance of Murrah buffaloes of the beneficiaries and non beneficiaries viz; age at first calving, calving interval, at 5 % level of probability; while, number of AIs required per conception, lactation length, dry period, average lactation milk yield, average daily milk yield and peak yield at 1 % level of probability. Most of the beneficiaries (73.75%) had medium level overall impact of IMDS on socio-economic status of the beneficiaries followed by high (17.50%) and low (8.75%). Whereas, medium level overall impact of IMDS was found on the productive and reproductive performance of Murrah buffaloes of the majority beneficiaries (89.38%) followed by high impact on few (10.63%). Such development programmes should be promoted for the improvement of socio economic status of farmers as well as improvement of milk productivity of the animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A retrospective study on dystocia in 211 graded Murrah buffaloes was undertaken over a period of 5 years. Maternal and fetal causes accounted for 57.35 and 42.65 percent respectively. Amongst maternal causes, uterine torsion, incomplete cervical dilatation and uterine inertia acccounted for 76.86, 20.66 and 2.48 percent, respectively. Uterine torsion was considered as the single most important reason for dystocia with an incidence of 76.86%. Fetal dystocia in anterior and posterior presentation were 88.88 and 11.12 percent while those of head and limb maldisposition, fetal emphysema and monsters were 40, 60, 8.88 and 3.34 percent respectively. Highest survival rate of 98.07% was achieved using modified Schaffers method of detorsion among uterine torsion treatment regimes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhythmicity in physiological parameters is an important process both as convenient and reliable markers of operation of the biological clock and as an indicator of general health of an animal. In order to find out the heat storage in adult and growing Murrah buffaloes, 6 each of growing and adult female Murrah buffaloes were selected from National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) herd for this study. The experiment was conducted in three seasons i.e. winter (Dec- Jan), spring (Feb- March) and summer (April-May). Rectal temperature (RT) and skin temperature (ST) were recorded during 4.00 hrs interval i.e. 6.00, 10.00, 14.00, 18.00, 22.00 and 2.00 hrs. The circadian variation in Skin temperature and rectal temperature was found to be maximum at 2.00 PM during summer season compared to spring and winter season. The heat storage was also observed highest at 2.00 PM in adult Murrah compared to growing during summer season. Physiological parameters (RT and ST) increased significantly (P<0.01) during spring and summer season compared to winter in both growing and adult buffaloes. Therefore young buffaloes should be protected from extreme hot conditions and direct sun exposure be avoided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effect of Foot and Mouth disease (FMD) vaccination was studied on semen quality parameters of 19 Karan Fries (KF) and eight Murrah (MU) breeding bulls during the period 2002 to 2004 at Artificial Breeding Complex, NDRI, Karnal. A total of non-vaccinated 155 KF and 72 MU bulls' ejaculates were taken as control, while 169 KF and 51 MU bulls' ejaculates, collected after vaccination, were used to study the effect of vaccination stress. The results showed that FMD vaccination had no significant ( P > 0.05) effect on ejaculate volume and total volume per day of semen in both KF and MU bulls. Volume of semen increased slightly during post-vaccination period in both the breeds. After FMD vaccination, there was significant ( P < 0.01) decrease in mass activity (2.27 ± 0.06 vs. 1.67 ± 0.07 and 2.49 ± 0.09. vs. 1.75 ± 0.10, for KF and MU, respectively), initial motility (56.89 ± 0.03% vs. 44.62 ± 0.02% and 62.26 ± 0.04% vs. 47.08 ± 0.05%, for KF and MU, respectively), sperm concentration (754.19 ± 23.96 vs. 554.14 ± 22.95 × 10/ml and 848.61 ± 33.65 vs. 571.57 ± 39.99 × 10/ml, for KF and MU, respectively), and total sperm output per ejaculate (3,685.94 ± 158.40 vs. 2,781.54 ± 151.70 × 10 and 2,218.75 ± 133.14 vs. 1,582.84 ± 158.20 × 10, for KF and MU, respectively). Application of FMD vaccine had significantly ( P < 0.05) adverse effect on most of the seminal attributes during post-vaccination in KF and MU buffalo bulls. So, the spermiograms affected following vaccination suggest that in bovines, the semen collection and preservation should be suspended till normal fertility of sperm is restored to avoid the failure of conception from artificial insemination using such semen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents abstracts of several articles on meat science and muscle biology. "Effect of Feeding Program and Sex on Productive Performance and Carcass Quality of Iberian Crossbred Pigs," by D. G. Valencia, R. Lázaro, M. Nieto and G. G. Mateos; "Early Postmortem pH Influences Proteolysis of Cytoskeletal Proteins During Aging in Porcine Longissimus Muscle," by S. M. Lonergan and E. Huff-Lonergan; "The Use of Creatine as a Means of Improving the Belly/Bacon Quality of Market Barrows Fed 4.5 g/ton Paylean," by C. A. Stahl, M. S. Carlson, T. B. Schmidt, G. Rentfrow, E. K. Burger and E. P. Berg; "Effects of Sedated-Harvest on Channel Catfish Fillet Color, pH, and Drip-Loss," by B. G. Bosworth and D. J. Gregory.

The present study was designed to compare Glycerolated Egg Yolk Tris extender (GEYT) with Glycerolated Egg Yolk Citrate extender (GEYC) for cryopreservation of Murrah bull semen. For this purpose, ejaculates were collected from three Murrah bulls for six months by using artificial vagina at bi weekly interval. Each semen sample was divided into two parts. One part was used for the evaluation 6 of semen by conventional method, while the other part of Semen ejaculates were diluted (80 x 10 motile spermatozoa/ml) in GEYT and GEYC extender. Diluted semen was filled in straws, equilibrated for 5 hrs at 4°C; freezing was carried out in Biological freezer for 7.25 minutes and then stored in the liquid nitrogen. Thawing was performed after 24 hrs of storage, at 37°C for 45 sec. Progressive motility, live spermatozoa, abnormal spermatozoa, plasma membrane integrity and acrosomal integrity were assessed at different stages (half dilution of semen, full dilution of semen, end of equilibration and post-thawing). Amongst the two extenders used, GEYT and GEYC there was no significant difference found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]