<div style="text-align: justify;">Advanced pregnant healthy HF crossbred cows (n=20) of 2-4 parity were equally divided in to control (routine farm feeding-RFF) and treatment/nutrients supplementation (RFF + bypass fat @ 100-200 g/h/d and ASMM @ 50 g/h/d) groups and were studied from 2 wks prepartum to 8 wks postpartum for plasma profile of steroid hormones and metabolites on days -14, -3, 0, +3, +14, +28 and +42 as well as for puerperal events and postpartum fertility. The mean plasma progesterone values were maximum (&gt;6 ng/ml) on day 14 prepartum, which declined significantly (p&lt;0.01) on day 3 prepartum reached to the basal levels (&lt;1 ng/ml) on the day of calving, remained basal till day 14, and thereafter showed a rising trend on days 28 and 42 postpartum. The oestradiol-17b values were at its peak on the day of calving (p&lt;0.01), showed a rapid fall by day 3 postpartum and remained low till recrudesce of follicular activity around day 35 postpartum. However, there were no statistical differences between the two groups in either of the hormones, except on day 42 postpartum. The levels of cortisol and PGF2 a Metabolites (PGFM) were 3-8 times higher on the day of parturition as compared to values at day 14 pre- and postpartum, and declined further till day 42 postpartum reaching to prepartum levels. The plasma cholesterol gradually decreased as parturition approached and increased in postpartum days to reach the highest value (p&lt;0.01) at day 42. The nutrients supplemented cows had significantly (p&lt;0.01) higher plasma cortisol, PGFM and cholesterol values than the control cows around parturition. However, no such variation was noted in plasma protein profile. The period of uterine involution in control and supplemented groups was identical (31.97&plusmn;1.82 and 30.27&plusmn;1.41 days), yet the cows in treatment group resumed estrous cycle earlier (38.00&plusmn;1.95 vs 42.32&plusmn;4.14 days, p&lt;0.05) and had shorter service period (85.22&plusmn;7.17 vs 100.67&plusmn;5.60 days) with improved pregnancy rate (80 vs 60 %) as compared to those in control group. Thus, the peripartum nutrient supplementation in crossbred cows was beneficial and had positive effect on the postpartum fertility and plasma cortisol, PGFM and cholesterol profile.</div>

Effect of peripartum nutritional supplementation on postpartum fertility and blood biochemical and steroid hormone profile in crossbred cows&nbsp;

<div style="text-align: justify;">Advanced pregnant Jaffarabadi buffaloes (n=40) of 2-4 parity selected on an organized farm were divided equally into control (routine farm feeding-RFF) and treatment/nutrients supplementation (RFF + bypass fat @ 150-200 g/h/d and ASMM @ 50 g/h/d) groups and were studied from 6 wks prepartum to 8 wks postpartum for plasma profile of steroid hormones and PGF2a metabolites on days -45, -30, -7, 0, +7, +15, +30, +45 and +60 peripartum as well as for puerperal events and postpartum fertility. Half of the buffaloes in both the groups also received parenteral microminerals (Inj. Stimvet 5 ml i/m) twice, 45 days before and on the day of calving. Again half of them were treated with ecbolic (Exapar) 2 boli bid for first 4 days postpartum. The mean plasma progesterone values were maximum (&gt;4 ng/ml) on day 45 prepartum, which declined significantly (p&lt;0.01) on day 7 prepartum reached to the basal levels (&lt;1 ng/ml) on the day of calving, remained basal till day 15, and thereafter showed a rising trend on days 30, 45 and 60 postpartum. The oestradiol-17b values were at its peak on the day of calving (p&lt;0.01), showed a rapid fall by day 7 postpartum and remained low till recrudesce of follicular activity around day 45 and 60 postpartum. The levels of cortisol were significantly higher on the day of parturition as compared to values on day 7 pre- and post-partum. The plasma concentration of PGFM was low on day 45 prepartum, which increased gradually and significantly by almost 10-folds to reach peak values on the day of calving in both control and treatment groups and then declined gradually and significantly till day 45 postpartum. The rise was little more in nutrients supplemented group with higher mean values at most intervals peripartum than in control group. The periods for uterine involution, first postpartum estrus, and days open were significantly shorter with higher conception rate in nutrient supplemented group. It is concluded that the peripartum nutrient supplementation in Jaffarabadi buffaloes is beneficial and has positive effect on the postpartum fertility and plasma progesterone and PGFM profile.</div>

Impact of bypass fat and mineral supplementation peripartum on plasma profile of steroid hormones PGFM and postpartum fertility in Jaffarabadi buffaloes

Background: Artificial Insemination is being extensively used for genetic improvement and upgrading the genetic makeup of cattle in the Indian subcontinent and was mainly based on production parameters like milk production and feed conversion efficiency. Attempts to increase milk production over certain limits resulted in the reduction of reproductive efficiency and occurrence of some reproductive disorders.&nbsp;The increased production has also been reported to result in ovulatory abnormalities, predominantly ovarian follicular cysts, which results in reduced fertility. The present research work was carried out to evaluate the efficacy of the hormonal therapy for follicular cyst and trans-gluteal aspiration technique for correcting non-responsive ovarian follicular cyst in crossbred cows. 
&nbsp; 
Methods: The crossbred cows presented with the history of more than six insemination and with nymphomaniac behavior for the past 5 months were included in the present study. Among the nymphomanic cows, 25 animals which were observed having follicular cyst, based on rectal and ultrasonographic examination were selected. Incidence of follicular cysts were categorized on the basis of side of ovaries, size of cyst, follicular wall thickness, number of cystic follicles, breeds, lactation and response to the hormonal treatments. The blood samples were collected to estimate the level of estradiol and progesterone in the affected cows. Further, the serum and cystic fluid collected were analyzed for biochemical parameters. The conception rate was also recorded in the treated and trans-gluteal aspiration technique adopted cows. 
&nbsp; 
Result: Cows (n=25) were treated with buserelin acetate (Day 0), prostaglandin F2&nbsp;alpha (Day 7) and again buserelin acetate (Day 9). It was found that 14 cows (56.0%) responded and 11 cows (44.0%) were found to be non-responsive to hormonal therapy. Trans-gluteal aspiration of follicle was performed in these eleven cows along with modified Ovsynch protocol. Trans-gluteal approach was found to be effective with 72.73 per cent recovery without any consequences and only 27.27 per cent recurrence was documented. Hence, this technique can easily be adopted in field for correcting non-responsive follicular cyst in cows. 
&nbsp;

Hormonal and Biochemical Profile of Follicular Cyst and its Responsiveness to Hormonal Therapy and Trans-Gluteal Aspiration Technique in Crossbred Cattle

<div>Background: Anestrus is one of the most commonly encountered infertility problems in cattle and buffalo in India. Jaffarabadi is one of the heaviest buffalo breeds of the world and is a native of Saurashtra region of Gujarat. The breed is known for poor reproductive efficiency. To improve its reproductive efficiency, this study was undertaken on acyclic Jaffarabadi animals employing double Ovsynch protocol and its assessment through ovarian dynamics and blood biochemical and endocrine profile on a farm.&nbsp; 
 
Methods: The study included acyclic post-pubertal Jaffarabadi heifers (age 42&plusmn;2 and 48&plusmn;2 months; Gr-I and Gr-II, n=6 each) and the postpartum lactating acyclic buffaloes (Gr-III, n=6) using a double Ovsynch protocol, which consisted of i/m injections of 20 &micro;g Buserelin acetate on days 0, 10, 17 and 26 and 500 &micro;g Cloprostenol sodium on days 7 and 24, with a timed insemination on day 27. Ovarian dynamics was monitored by performing ultrasonography using real-time B-mode ultrasound scanner together with blood sampling for hormonal and biochemical profile on each day of hormone therapy and then on days 0, 12, 21 and 35 post-AI. The animals inseminated at induced estrus/FTAI were followed for return to estrus, if any. Pregnancy was confirmed in non-return cases on day 35 by ultrasonography and on day 70 by per rectal examination. The findings on ovarian dynamics, plasma endocrine and biochemical profile were compared statistically between groups and periods and fertility rates between groups. 
 
Result: In animals of treatment group I and II, a significant (p&lt;0.05) increase in numbers of small follicles was observed on day 26. Number of large sized follicles was significantly (p&lt;0.05) higher on day 26 in comparison to day 0 and day 7 in group III animals. Large and subordinate follicular diameters increased gradually, but the differences between periods were significant (p&lt;0.001) only in group III with the highest diameter of large follicle on day 17. Plasma FSH and LH concentrations differed significantly (p&lt;0.001) among groups at all-time intervals. Plasma LH in group I and III differed significantly (p&lt;0.001). Plasma estrogen level was significantly (p&lt;0.05) higher in group II than group III. Plasma progesterone concentrations in group I and II animals were significantly higher on day 35 post-AI. Plasma insulin levels were significantly (p&lt;0.01) lower on all days for group III animals than group I and II. Blood glucose level was significantly (p&lt;0.001) higher in group I on day 17 as compared to group II and III. Plasma total cholesterol was significantly (p&lt;0.05) higher in group III as compared to group I and II. The conception rates at first service/FTAI in double Ovsynch treated animals of group I, II and III were 66.66, 83.33 and 16.66 %, respectively. Thus it was concluded that ovarian structures and the plasma endocrine profile reflected the ovarian response to different hormonal injections and that double Ovsynch protocol could be a better choice for improving conception rate in post-pubertal acyclic Jaffarabadi buffalo heifers as compared to multiparous acyclic buffaloes.</div>

Evaluation of Double Ovsynch Protocol in Acyclic Jaffarabadi Heifers and Buffaloes with Respect to Ovarian Dynamics, Hormonal Profile and Fertility

A study was conducted to assess the thyroid hormones and lipid profile in Labrador Retriever male dogs presented to the Veterinary College Hospital, Bengaluru for routine health check up and vaccination. Based on their age, they were randomly divided into Group I, Group II and Group III that consisted of one to three years age (young age), more than three years to six years age (middle age) and more than six to nine years age (old age), respectively. In all the dogs the body weight was recorded. The profile of thyroid hormones such as thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), triiodothyronine (T3) and &nbsp;Thyroxine (T4) were estimated by using ELISA kits. The lipid profile parameters such as triglycerides, cholesterol and HDL cholesterol were estimated by using biochemical reagent kits. The values of LDL and VLDL cholesterol were calculated by using Friedewald formula. Further, the blood glucose level was estimated using the Glucochek&reg; glucometer and serum total protein level by using reagent kit. Results revealed that the increased body weight was observed as age advanced. The T3 levels did not vary significantly among different age groups. Whereas, in the advanced age groups there was reduction in T4 levels and increase in TSH levels which was suggestive of hypothyroidism. Triglycerides, cholesterol, LDL and VLDL levels were significantly higher in older dogs followed by middle age group compared to young age group. However, the alterations in blood glucose and serum total protein levels were non significant between different age groups. It was concluded that the Labrador Retriever male dogs could be more prone to hypothyroidism and hyperlipidemia and therefore master health check-up could be taken up at least once in a year as a precautionary measure to avoid complications of hypothyroidism and hyperlipidemia.

Thyroid hormones and lipid profile in Labrador Retriever male dogs

Background: Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) is a widely known medicinal herb with numerous bioactive compounds that enhance growth, immunity and reproductive performance. This study evaluates the effects of W. somnifera ethanolic extract (WSEE) on growth, gonadal maturation, steroid hormone profiling in Lepidocephalichthys thermalis under controlled conditions. 
 
Methods: Fish were fed diets supplemented with WSEE at different concentrations (0, 100, 200 and 300 mg/kg) for 70 days. Growth performance, gonadosomatic index (GSI), serum steroid hormone levels and gonadal histology were assessed. 
 
Result: Results demonstrated significant improvements in growth parameters, with the highest weight gain (1.51&plusmn;0.22 g) and specific growth rate (2.26&plusmn;0.22) observed in the 300 mg/kg WSEE group. Additionally, FCR improved across treatments, with the lowest value recorded in the 300 mg/kg group (1.08&plusmn;0.05), indicating enhanced feed utilization efficiency. Steroid hormone analysis revealed a dose-dependent increase in progesterone, estrogen and testosterone levels, with T2 (200 mg/kg) exhibiting the highest concentrations. Histological examination showed enhanced gonadal development, with increased vitellogenic follicles and reduced atretic structures in treated groups. These findings support the use of W. somnifera as a sustainable alternative to synthetic hormones in aquaculture reproduction management.

Impact of Withania somnifera Supplementation on Growth, Reproduction and Hormonal Profile of Lepidocephalichthys thermalis in Captivity

<div>Background: Understanding of ovarian follicular dynamics and endocrine regulation is essential to design and use interventions to optimize reproductive efficiency. Bos indicus and Bos taurus cows have some differences in their follicular dynamics and ovarian steroidal hormones. The present study was planned to understand follicular dynamics vis-a-vis ovarian steroids profiles in Sahiwal cattle. 
 
Methods: The study was conducted in normal cyclic, pluriparous, non-lactating Sahiwal cows (n=7). Trans-rectal ultrasonography was performed to record the location, size, number of follicles and size of corpus luteum (CL) from the beginning, till the end of experiment. The dataset was used to characterize the follicular wave emergence, growth, regression, time of selection and ovulation of the dominant follicle in each cow.&nbsp; 
 
Result: Three Sahiwal cows showed two wave and four cows showed three wave estrous cycles with mean interovulatory length of 20.33&plusmn;0.33 and 22.50&plusmn;0.28 days, respectively. No significant difference was recorded in the maximum diameter of corpus luteum, P4 and E2 plasma levels between 2-wave and 3-wave estrous cycles. The peak progesterone values of 6.00&plusmn;0.91 and 6.2&plusmn;1.2 ng/ml and peak estradiol values of 15.83&plusmn;0.60 and 14.31&plusmn;0.44 ng/ml were recorded in 2-wave and 3-wave estrous cycle, respectively. The results showed that Sahiwal cows had 2-wave and 3-wave estrous cycle and the 3-wave estrous cycle had comparatively longer inter-ovulatory period and smaller maximum diameter of second wave dominant follicle than 2-wave estrous cycle.</div>

Studies on Ovarian Follicular Dynamics and Steroid Profiles in Sahiwal Cattle

<div>Background: The non-availability of the sophisticated anaesthetic machine and the necessary equipment to administer inhalant anaesthetic in the field hospitals make their use practically unfeasible for the field veterinarians. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of propofol, ketamine and their combination &lsquo;Ketofol&rsquo; as a TIVA on certain haematological, serum biochemical and hormonal profiles in atropine and xylazine premedicated dogs.&nbsp; 
 
Methods: The study was conducted in eighteen clinical cases of dogs of either sex. The animals were randomly divided into three groups with six animals in each group. All the three groups were premedicated with Atropine sulphate @ 0.04mg/kg body weight and xylazine HCl @ 0.5mg/kg body weight intramuscularly. In group-I, propofol @ 5mg/kg body weight, in group-II, ketamine @ 5mg/kg body weight and in group-III, ketofol @ 4mg/kg body weight was administered intravenously for induction after 15 minutes of pre-anesthetic administration. Surgical anaesthesia was maintained for 90 minutes in all three groups viz. group-I, group-II and group-III with propofol @ 2.5mg/kg. b.w., ketamine @ 2.5mg/kg b.wt. and ketofol @ 2mg/kg b.wt. respectively by intermittent bolus injection (IBI) technique. Haematological, serum biochemical and hormonal profile were evaluated before administration of the anaesthetic agent (0 minutes) then at 15, 30, 60 and 90 minutes during and after administration of anaesthetic agents.&nbsp; 
 
Result: The study revealed that Hb, PCV and TEC were significantly decreased in all the groups at 60 mints and 30 mints respectively. The biochemical evaluation revealed that blood glucose level was significantly increased in all the groups until the end of the experiment. &nbsp;BUN and creatinine value was a significant increase in group-I and group-II than group-III at different time intervals up to the end of the experiment. In all the groups&rsquo; alanine aminotransferase (ALT) values significantly increased up to 60th minutes during TIVA whereas AST value was significantly increased in group-II at 30th and 60th minute of the experiment in compare to group-I and group-III. A higher level of cortisol values was recorded in group-I animals for the entire period of observation. There were no changes observed in the case of T3. Transient variables of haemato-biochemical have been reported following propofol, ketamine and their combination (ketofol) as total intravenous anaesthesia (TIVA). Thus, it has been concluded that diligent monitorization and electrolyte support are essential during the period of anaesthesia.&nbsp;</div>

<div>Effects of Propofol, Ketamine and their Combination (ketofol) as Total Intravenous Anesthesia (TIVA) on Haematological, Serum Biochemical and Hormonal Profile in the Surgical Management of Canine Patients</div>

<div style="text-align: justify;">Present study was carried out to ascertain the influence of different seasons on hormonal profiles in Hallikar cattle. Two groups (control and supplemented) of healthy female Hallikar cattle with six animals in each group selected from Madabal Village of Ramanagara District, Karnataka, India, were utilized for the present study. Selected animals were exposed to environmental stressors during three different seasons (winter, summer and rainy) by allowing them for grazing daily. Animals of control group received no supplementation but supplemented group received oral supplementation of vitamin E and selenium, during the study period. Blood samples collected from all the animals at monthly interval during three different seasons were processed to obtain the plasma which were stored at - 80 &ordm;C until they are utilized for determination of hormones like triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4), insulin and cortisol using radioimmunoassay technique. In the present study, triiodothyronine and thyroxine levels reduced significantly (P&lt;0.05) during summer season compared to other seasons in control group animals. In both control and supplemented group, plasma insulin levels declined significantly (P&lt;0.05) and plasma cortisol levels increased significantly (P&lt;0.05) during summer compared to other seasons. Form the study, it was concluded that the summer stress reduces the thyroid and pancreatic activity leading reduced secretion of thyroid hormones and insulin. Further, the summer stress stimulates the adrenal cortical activity leading to enhanced secretion of the cortisol in Hallikar cattle. &nbsp;</div>

Effect of antioxidants supplementation on plasma hormonal profiles in Hallikar cattle during different seasons

<div>Background: One of the major factors affecting the physiology of pregnancy and reproductive cycle is the trace elements intake and their levels in serum of brood ewes and does. The main objective of this investigation was to study the association between serum concentration of trace elements, ovarian findings, stage of pregnancy and steroid hormones in sheep and goats.&nbsp; 
 
Methods: Total of 129 ewes (68 pregnant and 61 non-pregnant) and 54 does (32 pregnant and 22 non-pregnant) were examined clinically and ultrasonographically for pregnancy diagnosis and monitoring the ovarian findings. Pregnant animals were categorized according to the gestational stage into 1 to 2, &gt;2 to 3, &gt;3 to 4 and &gt; 4 months. According to the ovarian findings, non-pregnant animals were categorized as having mature corpus luteum (CL), large follicle (&gt; 5 mm) and corpus luteum (CL+F), growing follicles (GF, &lt;5.mm) and mature follicle (MF, &gt;5 mm). Animals were bled and serum was harvested and assayed for estrogen (E2), progesterone (P4), manganese (Mn), selenium (Se), iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) levels.&nbsp; 
 
Result: Mn (P=0.01), Fe (P=0.05) and Zn (P=0.001) were lower in pregnant compared with non-pregnant ewes. Fe was significantly higher (P=0.03) in non-pregnant compared with pregnant does at any gestational stage. Ewes with MF had higher Se (P=0.02) and Fe (P=0.001) compared with other ewes.&nbsp;Fe (P=0.001) and Zn (P=0.000) were higher in does having MF compared with other does. A positive association between E2 and serum Fe in non-pregnant ewes (P=0.03) and does (P=0.05) was found. It can be concluded that pregnancy associated with a decrease in serum trace elements in sheep and goats.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div>