Research Achievments

RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS

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Annual Report 2011-2012

ANIMAL BIOTECHNOLOGY

Transcriptional level of developmentally important genes in buffalo pre-implantation embryos Follicular dynamics in Murrah graded buffaloes

was studied to know the follicular wave pattern. In graded Murrah buffaloes, among the two oestrous synchronization protocols viz., Ovsynch (GnRH + PG + GnRH) and Heat synch (GnRH + PG + Oestradiol cypionate) initiated during the growth phase (Day 6) or regression phase (Day 10) of the first wave dominant follicle, Ovsynch protocol in follicular wave synchronization group responded well to superovulation treatment.

Based on the ultrasonographic characterization of the dominant follicle, the day of initiation of FSH treatment on day 10 of the oestrus cycle and embryo collection at 5.5 days post-insemination gave better results in Murrah graded buffaloes.

Development of recombinant fusion protein vaccine for Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis Immunization studies of chitosan nanoparticle coupled

recombinant fusion proteins of 85A and 85B genes of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis induced partial protection in goats and heat killed whole cell JD vaccine coupled with chitosan nanoparticles induced both Th1 and Th2 response in goats.

Heat killed-chitosan coupled vaccine can be used to immunize small ruminants and cattle.

The generated recombinant antigens (85A, 85B and 85A+85B fusion) can be used to develop diagnostic assays and chitosan nanoparticles generated can be used as a vaccine delivery system for other vaccines.

Molecular diagnostics for emerging avian viral diseases and their immunopathogenesis Whole genome sequencing of five Newcastle

disease virus (NDV) isolates NDV-2K36 (Peacock) (HQ011508), NDV-2K17(Quail) (HQ902590), NDV2k3(Pigeon) (FJ986192), NDV 2 (Chicken ) (GU187941) and NDV 4(Chicken) (HM537251) was done for the first time in India.

Molecular epidemiology of NDV, Marek’s disease virus(MDV), Chicken anaemia virus (CAV) has been done to study the nature of these viruses prevalent in India.

Recombinant antigen based latex agglutination tests have been developed to detect antibodies to CAV, MDV and fowl adeno virus.

Multiplex PCR has been developed for detecting oncogenic avian viruses namely, MDV, avian leucosis virus (ALV) and reticuloendotheliosis virus (REV).

Calcium phosphate and PLG nano particle based vaccine delivery induced good immune response in chicken against Newcastle disease

Expression profiles of turkey TLRs have been studied for first time in the country

RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS

Scanning electron microscopic picture of Chitosan nanoparticles

Chicken anaemia infection detection kit

Multiplex PCR for detecting avian oncogenic viruses like

MDV, ALV and REV

Three dimensional structure of NDV HN gene

Real time PCR for early detection of NDV

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Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University

Expression of pluripotency marker in buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) embryonic cells (buES) The per cent of primary colony formation was higher

in embryonic cells derived from compact morula when compared to other stages of buffalo embryos.

Pluripotency of buES like cells was demonstrated by expression of transcriptional marker Oct-4 by RT-PCR at different passages.

Expression of TRA-1-81 protein in buffalo embryonic stem cells was studied by flow cytometry.

Characterization of buESc with surface (Oct-4)/ transcriptional markers (TRA-1-81) embryoid body formation, immunocytochemistry and flow cytometry.

Development and evaluation of recombinant protein based latex agglutination test for rabies virus antibody assessment Recombinant glycoprotein of rabies has been

cloned and expressed in insect cell system and the expressed glycoprotein was used in standardizing latex agglutination test (LAT) for rabies virus antibody detection to a level up to 0.88 I.U./ml

LAT was compared with standard RFFIT method in 228 dog serum samples and results in both tests were found to be comparable with a concordance of 97.39%

Chicken bone marrow stem cell characterization for osteogenic progenitor differentiation Expression of MSC markers such as SOX2, NANOG,

POUV, CD44, CD90, CD105 were observed in both embryonic and adult bone marrow derived cells and hence MSC from bone marrow can be used in poultry genome manipulation to enhance production.

Osteogenically differentiated cells showed SOX2, POUV, CD90 and Osteopontin.

PCR amplification and sequencing of mouse immunoglobulin gene of hybrid clones Primers for different antibody isotypes were

designed and hybrid clones were isotyped by RT-PCR

Variable regions of heavy and light chains were amplified and sequenced

16S rRNA typing for identification of gut microbes in termites The majority of the isolated microbiota was

aerobes (Bacillus sp., and Pseudommas sp.) and facultative anaerobes (Salmonella sp., Enterococcus sp., Staphylococcus sp., Serratia sp.)

The full-length 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis of 16 clones identified a broad taxonomic range from six families within the domain Bacteria: Proteobacteriaceae, Enterobacteriacea, Micrococcaceae, Lactobacteriacea and Enterococcaceae.

Phylogenetic analysis of the bacterial flora present in the termite, Odontotermes formosanus gut was analyzed

Grading of LAT results with known titer of standard anti rabies antibodies

VDRL plate showing LAT results of dog serum samples

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Molecular methods for sexing ratites Differentiation of sex of Ostrich using feather DNA

was done with designed F3 and B3 primers that produced a 220 bp product only in females

Differentiation of sex of Ostrich and Emu using qPCR with TaqMan chemistry produced a CT

difference of at least 10 between male and female Optimization of LAMP and application in sex

differentiation of Ostrich was carried out. Female sample produces ladder like pattern, that could be further confirmed by restriction digestion

Application of the above molecular methods for sexing Ostrich and Emu with 100 per cent correlation with phenotypic sex.

Sequence characterization and screening for polymorphism in the caspase recruitment domain (CARD) 15 gene of caprines CARD15 gene (an intracellular pattern recognition

receptor) of goats were duplicated and sequenced the major regions of the gene from three native goat breeds (Barbari, Tellicherry and Kanni) and screened for polymorphisms

The expression levels of Muramyl dipeptide (MDP) induced CARD15 gene and downstream cytokines were attempted to correlate with that of the observed polymorphisms.

Two nonsynonymous substitutions R2441H (in Barbari and Tellicherry) and A2492G (in Tellicherry and Kanni) were observed in exons 5 and 6 respectively. Four polymorphisms were located in the coding region of the gene (one each in exon 5 and 10 and two in exon 6) and one in the non- coding region of the gene (Intron 5-6).

Upon MDP stimulation, there was no significant change in the expression levels of CARD15 and TNF–α

mRNA across the three breeds while the IL1-β mRNA levels were significantly higher in Kanni breed of goat.

Biochemical and genomic factors of follicular micro-environment affecting the buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) oocyte quality and in–vitro maturation More number of culturable oocytes was recovered

from medium follicles (MF) and showed degree 2 cumulus expansion and reached M II stage.

The Glucose concentration increased as the follicle size increased and the concentration of Triglycride was found to be decreasing as the follicular size increased.

PCR studies revealed that the expression of GLUT-1 (309 bp), IGF-1 (334 bp) and Bax (400 bp) genes were observed in all the follicular categories, however their expression levels were found to be higher in the granulosa cell samples of large follicles than the other categories.

I n s i l i c o m o l e c u l a r i n t e r a c t i o n s t u d y o f acetylcholineterase (AchE) with bioactive components of Emblica officinalis Docking was performed using insilico method where

the herbal bioactive compounds from Emblica and the AChE enzyme 3D were retrieved from PDB and pubchem and bioactive compound Gallate and Ellagic acid gave the best docking score for AChE receptors

Phylogenetic analysis and insilico screening of influenza viral proteins with herbal bioactive principles Phylogenetic analysis of pandemic and epidemic

strains of H1 N1 virus in India was done. In silico screening of bioactive compounds of herbal

medicines was done for its ability to bind with H and N proteins of Influenza virus.

Amplification pattern of Ostrich DNA using sex specific primers. Samples showing typical exponential amplification and lower CT values are designated as females, and those showing ‘flattened’ amplification plot and higher CT values are designated as male.

Sequence of CARD 15 gene of goats and genotypes and the polymorphisms in the CARD15 gene of native breeds

of goat has been identified

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Insilico screening and evaluation of herbal bio active principles against (3DPOL) RNA polymerase enzyme of foot and mouth disease virus Forty active principles derived from herbal plant

sources were docked on 15 different binding sites of RNA polymerase of FMDV

Three active principles viz. Deoxypodophyllotoxin (D.score -51.754). Curcumin (D.score -50.366) and Catechin (D.score -49.822) were identified based on dock score.

The component Deoxy podophyllotocin could be considered as a lead component for the development of novel antiviral drug for FMD.

Target Validation of VP1 and VP2 antigenic proteins of Parvo virus with antiviral herbs: A Bioinformatics approach Sixteen active ingredients have been identified

from 8 different herbs to target VP1 and VP2 proteins of paro virus

VP1 was identified as very good drug target for the drug development.

Based on dock score Azulene (Yarrow), Salicin (Black Willow Bark) and Scopolamine (Belladonna) could be considered to use as antiviral compound against parvo viral infection.

An ins i l i co s tudy on ant iv i ra l potency of complementary act ive principles of herbal components against NS5 methyltransferase of Dengue virus A multistage molecular docking approach was to

done to screen a library of 12 compounds against the binding sites of NS5 protein of dengue virus.

Based on the dock score, highest value showing components viz.,Curcumin (-42.853), Ribavirin (-30.434) and Choline -27.161 were identified among the 12 active principles screened for efficacy.

An insilico study to findout the efficacy of targeting Glutathione S-transferase from “Plasmodium falciparum” Glutathione S-transferase of the malarial parasite

Plasmodium falciparum (PfGST) was used as target to identify suitable plant derived antimalarial drug

Out of 13 plant derived drugs studied, trigonelline, ethyl cinnamate, anethole and eugenol gave the best docking score.

ANIMAL HEALTH

Novel Diagnostics and Vaccine Delivery Systems for Emerging and Economically Important Bacterial and Viral Diseases Affecting Small Ruminants. Iron regulated outer membrane protein (IROMP),

Biofilm and IR-Biofilm vaccines were developed using Pasteurella multocida type A sheep isolate and vaccination studies conducted in sheep at LRS, Kattupakkam. Sero- conversion was assessed by passive mouse protection. All the three vaccines induced protective immunity.

DNA vaccine against PPR was developed by cloning PPRV H gene in an expression vector. Full length Haemagglutinin gene (H) of field isolate CBE (1.8kb) was amplified by RT-PCR and cloned in pegfpc1 expression vector and recombinant colonies screened. In vitro expression was confirmed by Fluorescent antibody test (FAT) and real time PCR for H gene.

Vaccination trial was conducted in goats. Four goats were vaccinated with the DNA vaccine. Three doses were given on 0.14 and 21 days. Two goats were given the PPR live attenuated vaccine. Another three goats formed the unvaccinated control. All the vaccinated animals were protected against virulent virus challenge conducted on 28 days.

Real time PCR based detection method for PPR has been developed targeting novel vaccines for specific protection against sheep pasteurellosis has been developed.

Johne’s disease vaccine was developed with the prevalent goat isolate.

A vaccine trial was conducted with mineral oil adjuvanted JD vaccine at PGRIAS, Kattupakkam and the vaccine was found to be safe.

IFN-gamma gene was cloned and expressed in E.coli. Expression was induced with IPTG at different time intervals and confirmed by PAGE.

A lateral flow kit was developed and standardized to detect subclinical JD infection.

IROMP, Biofilm and IR-Biofilm vaccines against Pasteurella multocida type A

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Transcriptional Response of Avian Cells to Newcastle Disease Virus (D58 Strain) Infection The transcription response of avian cells to D58

strain has been studied using real time PCR. The expression of viral M and F genes was observed

after 24h and 48h in infected group; and the melting temperature was recorded as 85.0 ± 0.1 for M and 86.4 ± 0.1 for F gene respectively. The F gene was expressed less compared to the M gene.

Among the cellular genes studied; IFN α and IFN γ showed increased expression at 72h, MHC I at 48h, DDX1 at 96h post infection, while IL-6 showed decreased expression from 3rd day onwards.

The highly expressed MHC I gene at day 3rd showed increased presentation of viral antigens to Th1 cells via CD8 receptors, which indicates strong cellular response of the cells to the virus.

The increased expression of IFN γ indicated cellular immune response. Further, the host genes involved in pro-inflammatory response and apoptosis, interferon -regulated proteins, and the cellular immune response were affected by NDV infection, indicating involvement in the complex signaling pathways of host responses to the infection.

The study contributes to the understanding of the pathogenesis of Newcastle disease and provides an insight in to the virus –host interaction.

Development of Vaccine for Johne’s Disease in cattle and Study of Immune Responses A heat killed whole cell vaccine was developed for

use in cattle with mineral oil adjuvant. The vaccine was found to be sterile, safe and potent

in Guinea pigs as per the standard procedures mentioned in the manual of diagnostic tests and

vaccines for terrestrial animals of the OIE (2008). Field testing of the vaccine was conducted in calves to evaluate the immune responses (humoral and cell mediated) to vaccination.

The developed vaccine has been found to produce strong antibody and gamma interferon response. Further significant lymphocyte transformation was also observed in vaccinated calves.

Molecular epidemiology of Salmonella of poultry origin and development of rapid diagnostic kit A study was undertaken on molecular epidemiology

of Salmonella organisms isolated from poultry, poultry related products and environmental samples and to develop a rapid diagnostic kit for early detection of Salmonella from samples.

The overall isolation of Salmonella in this study was 1.73 per cent (21/1215). The incidence of Salmonella isolation was high in winter (2.8%) as compared to summer (0.66%).

The molecular tests viz., multiplex PCR, alllele specific PCR, real time PCR were used for the detection of Salmonella organisms and ERIC PCR, rRNA spacer region polymorphism, ribotyping and pulse field gel electrophoresis were performed for typing the Salmonella isolates.

Based on the molecular tests carried out, a rapid diagnostic kit was developed with multiplex PCR for early detection of Salmonella organisms using Salmonella specific primers in poultry, poultry related products and environmental samples.

Clinical trials of “Eprinomectin Pour” on solution against ectoparasites and endoparasites in cattle Eprinomectin pour on preparation was evaluated

in cattle against ecto and endoparasites for the first time in India. Single dose of 500µg/kg showed 100% efficacy against moderate infection of strongyles and two doses were needed against heavy infection of strongyles (epg> 200).

Eprinomectin also showed 100% efficacy against ticks (Boophilus microplus) and lice (Linognathus vituli and Haematopinus quadripertusus )

Eprinomectin pour on preparation can be used against both endo and ectoparasites of cattle @ 500 µg/kg body weight.

Quantitative real time PCR for detection and quantification of Eimeria sp. in commercial broilers A qPCR assay was standardized for detection of

genus Eimeria in the intestinal tissue using the

Transcription profile of certain cytokine and cellular genes in chicken embryo cells infected with NDV (D58 strain)

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5Sribosomal RNA as the target of amplification. A standard curve with a slope of -3.11 and a Y-intercept of 39.82 was obtained. A regression of 0.979 and PCR efficiency of 2.096 were achieved.

SCAR based qPCR assay was standardized for detection of E. tenella. A standard curve with a slope of -3.58, a regression of 0.995, Y –intercept of 38.70 and efficiency of 1.903 was obtained.

Quantitative real-time PCR was found to be a sensitive quantitative technique to detect Eimeria infection in broilers during the pre-patent and subclinical phase of infection in commercial broilers.

A SYBR® Green I based Quantitative real – time PCR was standardized for species level detection and absolute quantification of E. tenella using the SCAR marker. A standard curve with a slope of -3.584 and a Y –intercept of 38.70 was obtained and the PCR reaction was found to have an efficiency of 1.903.

Absolute quantification of Eimeria was done for all the 60 intestinal tissue samples. Maximum genome numbers were identified in caecal tissue.

Absolute quantification of E. tenella was done for 18 samples collected from Caecum. The generic genome counts by 5S rRNA based assay were found to be greater than E. tenella genome counts in 10 cases indicating presence of species other than E. tenella in the caecal tissue.

Quantitative real – time PCR was found to be a very sensitive technique for detection and quantification of intestinal development stages of Eimeria during the pre-patent and sub-clinical phases of disease in commercial broilers.

Application of semiochemicals for the control of ixodid ticks Hyalomma marginatum and R. haemaphysaloides

showed maximum attraction to kairamone, butyric acid (43 per cent) whereas with propionic acid H. marginatum revealed highest attraction (43 per cent) followed by R. haemaphysoloides (40 per cent)

Amongst the ruminant tick larvae tested with a kairomone 1-octen-3-o1, maximum attraction of 72 per cent and 71 per cent was recorded for H. marginatum and R. microplus respectively

Assembly pheromone in combination with deltamethrin resulted in attraction and death of all canine and ruminant tick larvae except H. bispinosa

Effect of Male Sex Pheromone in combination with Attactant Sex Pheromone(ASP) was assessed by preparing tick decoy using glass beads coated with

ASP and MSP. Ten and 20 per cent respectively of R. sanguineus and R. microplus showed attraction to the decoy.

in vivo evaluation of assembly pheromone and ASP in simulated field trials resulted in positive response being exhibited by 40, 35 and 29 per cent of ticks from 0.5, 1 and 1.5 m distances respectively. A tick lure comprising of carbon dioxide as kairomone and 2,6-DCP as pheromone in combination with assembly pheromone on a thermocol platform was prepared and field trials with it was conducted in the kennels of Blue Cross Society of India, Velacherry. The tick lure attracted larval, nymphal and adult stages of R. sanguineus ticks.

A trial in 10 dogs with tick decoy was done and three decoys revealed the presence of few dead adult ticks after 24 hours.

Use of pheromones for novel method of controlling ticks was attempted with encouraging results for the first in India.

Study of benzimidazole resistance status of haemonchus contortus affecting sheep in Salem Designing of new set of primers for detection of

H. contortus larvae Standardization of species-specific PCR for detection

of H. contortus larvae Screening of H. contortus larvae by allele-specific

PCR to detect benzimidazole resistance Assessment of benzimidazole resistance status by

using molecular techniques Specific and sensitive detection of H. contortus larvae

by PCR

PCR based detection of Babesia in brown dog ticks Rhipicephalus sanguineus Semi nested PCR was used to detect Babesia sp in

the Eggs, Larvae, Nymphs, Adult male and Female

Tick lure Tick decoy

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of Rhipicephalus sanguineus ticks and the presence of subspecies of B. canis as Babesia canis vogeli has been confirmed.

Proved the vector potentiality of R. sanguineus ticks in the transmission of Babesiosis in dogs.

Semi nested PCR was used to detect Babesia sp in the Eggs, Larvae, Nymphs, Adult male and Female of Rhipicephalus sanguineus ticks.

Diagnostic and prognostic significance of expression of caveolin-1, C-erbB2 and BRCA1 in canine mammary neoplasms Evaluating the diagnostic and prognostic significance

of expression of caveolin-1, c-erbB2 and BRCA1 markers in canine mammary tumours.

The NAF, FNAB and histopathological findings showed a correlation in 22 out of 29 cases (75.86%) and between FNAB and histopathology, a correlation of 76.74 per cent was observed.

Intensity of expression of BRCA1 protein was moderate to strong in benign epithelial tumours compared to the weak/poor signalling in malignant mammary tumours.

Under this study, the diagnostic and prognostic significance of expression of caveolin-1, c-erbB2 and BRCA1 markers in canine mammary tumours was established.

Plant extracts as alternatives for control of gastrointestinal nematodes in sheep Anthelmintic efficacy of aqueous and ethanolic extracts

of Aloe vera petals, Cucurbita pepo seeds, Embelia ribes fruits, Indigofera tinctoria leaves and Sesbania grandiflora leaves were evaluated against gastrointestinal nematodes of sheep at In vitro and in vivo level.

Egg hatch assay, larval development assay and larval migration inhibition assay were conducted to assess the in vitro anthelmintic efficacy of the above mentioned plants. The results of the in vitro tests revealed that aqueous extracts of C. pepo, S. grandiflora, A. vera and ethanolic extract of C. pepo and I. tinctoria had ovicidal and larvicidal properties.

To confirm the efficacy in vivo, faecal egg count reduction test was carried out at TANUVAS Small ruminant research centre. Aqueous extracts of C. pepo and S. grandiflora at 500 mg/kg caused significant reduction in eggs per gram which was higher than the result obtained with albendazole.

The results of the study revealed that aqueous extracts of S. grandiflora and C. pepo are safe to use as anthelmintics in sheep.

Characterisation of fetal and adult liver progenitor cells of sheep ALP activities were increased from the first day and

reached maximum on 5th day and 6th day for foetal and adult liver culture respectively.

Total protein values were increased from first day and reached maximum value on 7th day of foetal and adult liver culture

Effect of sodium nitroprusside on in vitro sperm characteristics of buffalo semen Sodium nitroprusside at micromolar and nanomolar

concentration decreased the sperm motility, sperm viability, but increased sperm abnormality

Both the concentrations affected the functional membrane integrity of the sperm as well as mitochondrial membrane potential

Lipid peroxidative damage was also higher in both the concentration.

There was a dose dependant effect of SNP on in vitro sperm characterstics of buffalo semen

In nanomolar concentration, sperm mitochondrial membrane potential was higher than micromolar concentration

Conventional and Molecular Surveillance for Paratuberculosis and Evaluation of Economic Impact on Farm animals The status of Johne’s disease amongst farm animals

which included dairy cows and sheep of different breeds and ages was assessed by a variety of diagnostic tests.

The samples like whole blood for sera, dung, milk and mesenteric lymph nodes from cattle and sheep were assessed under this study.

This study revealed that ELISA method is suitable to Identify Johne's disease in cattle and PCR method is best to detect the Johne's bacteria.

This study recommends that while puchasing the new cattles, among the ELISA, PCT and Gamma Interferron diagnostic tests, two tests can be effectively used to detect Johne’s disease in cattle and sheep

Epidemiological and pathogenic Profiles of Canine Parvo virus Infection – Current status Among all antigen detection tests, polymerase chain

reaction (PCR) was found to have highest sensitivity detecting 34.5 per cent as positive followed by indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) (25 per cent), haemagglutination (HA) test (18.5 per cent)

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and slide agglutination test (SAT) (10.5 per cent). PCR with its highest sensitivity was taken as a gold standard to relate the findings of other antigen detection tests and demographic results.

PCR was found to be most effective in detecting shedders in apparently healthy dogs. Shedding of CPV from apparently healthy dogs indicates that they can act as carriers of infection to the susceptible population.

Slide agglutination test (SAT) was able to detect cases on the basis of their clinical severity as it detected only those cases in which HA titre was ≥ 64 i.e. which were shedding high quantity of virus in faeces.

In gastroenteritis cases, breed wise highest per cent prevalence was found in Dobermans, followed by cross breds and other pedigree breeds. However in case of apparently healthy dogs, highest per cent prevalence was found again in Dobermans, followed by non-descript and other pedigree breeds.

Haematological studies showed that leucocytes can be used as prognostic indicators in predicting the outcome of the disease and accordingly formulating the plan of treatment.

B1 based PCR Amplification of Toxoplasma gondii in goats in and around Chennai One hundred goat brain tissue samples were collected

from slaughter house, Chennai, which comprised of 65 male and 35 female. All the 100 tissue samples were screened by B1based PCR and subjected to DNA isolation of which 52 samples were found positive for T. gondii. The highest positivity was recorded in female goats with 54.28 per cent. Highest prevalence was noticed in the age group of 6 months to 1year followed by 6 month of age and 1 to 2 years of age. The positivity was recorded as 55.5 percent, 52 percent and 46.6 percent respectively.

SID and GIA can be used in early part of the disease. ELISA, culture, PCR and AFB can be used when the animals are shedding the organism. PCR is cost effective and highly useful when the animal is shedding the organisms. The approximate annual loss in paratuberculosis affected sheep was ` 1300 and in cattle was ` 8,700.

Of 100 samples collected from slaughter house, Chennai, 52 goats were positive for toxoplasmosis by B1 based PCR. These studies ruled out the prevalence of T. Gondii in the animals in Tamilnadu. Hence a detailed study regarding the actual status of the disease in the state is required to prevent the infection to other animals and human.

Molecular and seroepidemiology of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis in dairy animals Seroprevalence of Mycobacterium avium subsp.

paratuberculosis (MAP) was 14.4 per cent Seroprevalence was more in cows (15.07%) than

buffaloes (12.29%) Prevalence of MAP was 16.40, 11.80 and 4.00 per cent

by faecal PCR, milk PCR and Ziehl-Neelsen staining technique

Identified MAP field isolates had 100 % homology to reference strain K-10

Udder contamination, lack of cleanliness in calving area and history of Johne’s disease were identified as risk factors associated with MAP infection.

Faecal PCR is a suitable diagnostic test to detect MAP at early stage of infection when compared with milk PCR and Ziehl-Neelsen staining technique

Development of vaccine for Goat pox disease Attended outbreak in sheep suspected for goat

at Kundrathur area, Pudukottai district and Thiruvarur, collected samples and screened for Capripox virus by counter immunoelectrophoresis (CIE). All positive samples were passaged in embryonated eggs, lamb testis cells and Vero cells

Samples (n=13) suspected for goat pox were received from the field / other States in India. All the scab materials were initially screened for Capripox virus by CIE and 4 samples were found positive for Capripox virus. Positive samples were incubated in to Vero cells, primary lamb testis cells and embryonated chicken eggs.

Biochemical and mutational studies of E cadherin gene in cancer E cadherin gene has 16 exons and mutational

changes are expected in breast cancer

JD positive cow Acid fast organism inmesenteric lymph

node

PM findings - Corrugated ileum of JD affected animal

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E-cadherin a tumor suppressor gene was amplified targeting exons 4,5,7,8,9 and 16 and the same were sequenced and the tumor samples were found to have mutation in the sequence.

Mutations were noticed in ductal carcinoma of the breast.

This study has confirmed the mutational changes in breast cancer

Assessment of fecal cortisol in captive and free-ranging elephants of Tamil Nadu state Levels of fecal cortisol in captive and free-ranging

elephants of Tamil Nadu state were studied. The captive elephant areas subjected to this study were various temples of Tamil Nadu state, Mudumalai Camp, Anamalai Camp, and Arignar Anna Zoological Park, and similarly the free-ranging wildlife areas.

The fecal cortisol level in captive and free ranging elephants was 260.85±19.46 ng/g and 169.89±5.60 ng/g. The fecal cortisol concentrations in temple elephants was the highest among the entire group of elephants studied. It was found that the fecal cortisol level in elephants from Arignar Anna Zoological Park was the lowest.

In addition, the dung samples were subjected to routine parasitological examination. There were evidences of internal parasites like Strongyles, Strongyloides sp., Anoplocephala sp., and mixed parasitic conditions in both captive and free-ranging elephants. Also additional information like feeding, husbandry practices were collected from the captive elephant-areas. It was concluded that the variations in fecal cortisol level might be due to existence of multiple stress factors, apart from parasitism, like presence of visitors, feed or water availability, suitability of climate etc. The management measures that could be adopted in the elephant areas were recommended.

Finding of highest fecal cortisol level in temple elephants, when compared to free ranging elephants

Finding of evidences of Strongyles, Strongyloides sp., Anoplocephala sp., and mixed parasitic conditions in both captive and free-ranging elephants

ANIMAL PRODUCTION

Analysis of insulin-like growth factor - 2 (IGF-2) gene polymorphism in cattle breeds of south India Analysis of IGF2 gene polymorphism was carried

out in Ongole and Malnad Gidda cattle breeds of South India. A total of eighteen SNPs (which

included four SNPs between Ongole and Malnad Gidda) were detected and reported. IGF2 gene was found to be polymorphic among Bos indicus cattle. Four SNPs were found between Ongole and Malnad Gidda

Molecular characterization of Katchaikatty sheep Katchaikatty sheep is a mutton purpose breed of

Tamil Nadu, distributed in Katchaikatty, Vadipatti, Bodinaichenpatti, Kulaseharan Kottai and Viralipatti villages of Madurai district.

Katchaikatty breed of sheep was characterized at molecular level using 25 FAO recommended fluorescent tagged ovine-specific microsatellite markers and compared phylogenetically with different sheep breeds of Tamil Nadu.

Genomic DNA was obtained from 50 unrelated animals. Multiplex PCR was carried out to amplify the genomic DNA and their products were resolved through automated DNA sequencer.

A total of 144 alleles were observed. The effective number ranged from one (OarHH64) to 6.43 (OarFCB48) with the mean of 3.40 across all loci.

The PIC values in Katchaikatty sheep ranged from 0.3427 (OarAE129) to 0.8260 (OarFCB48) with a mean of 0.5921. The Chi-square test revealed that only six out of 25 microsatellite loci were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium proportions. The means for observed and expected heterozygosity were 0.5034 and 0.6455 respectively. High within population inbreeding estimate reflects small population size (confined to few pockets in Madurai district).

Characterization and evaluation of Kodi Adu goats of Tamil Nadu Kodi Adu goats are distributed mainly in parts of

Thoothukudi and Ramanathapuram districts of southern Tamil Nadu

Chem-Porai Karum-Porai

Kodi Adu

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Kodi Adu goats were tall, long, lean and leggy animals with compact body and has two color varieties viz. Chem-Porai and Karum-Porai.

The least-squares means for height at withers, body length, chest girth, horn length, ear length, face length and tail length of Kodi Adu adult goats pooled over sexes were 84.94 ± 0.49, 77.56 ± 0.43, 79.28 ± 0.48, 16.16 ± 0.33, 15.91 ± 0.24, 17.79 ± 0.19 and 17.90 ± 0.25 cm respectively.

The results of this study will be useful to formulate suitable breeding policy for implementing the breed improvement programmes under farmer’s field condition and distribution of Kodi Adu goats has been identified and the total population of Kodi Adu goats in the breeding tract has been estimated. Breed characteristic of Kodi Adu goats has been established

Molecular characterization of goat breeds of Tamil Nadu using microsatellite markers Molecular characterization of Kanni Adu, Kodi

Adu and Salem Black goats were made with 20 microsatellite markers.

The disequilibrium observed in higher number of loci in Kanni Adu and Kodi Adu could be due to non-random mating, operation of selection over the years and small population size.

The Nei’s genetic distance estimates and dendrogram among three breeds revealed that Kanni Adu and Kodi Adu formed one cluster and the Salem Black goats were distinctly different from Kanni Adu and Kodi Adu goats.

Adaptation and Facilitation of Livestock to Impending Climatic Changes through Shelter Management Basic and strategic research was conducted on

climate change to understand the processes, in all their complexity and to undertake need based research that leads to livestock improvement and sustain productivity of meat, wool, milk and draught power in harmony with environment. The effect of climate change on physiological and biochemical parameters in different agro – eco zones was studied. The effect of improved shelter and management on reducing environmental stress on productivity and reproductive efficiency was studied. The study recommends the following : open housing systems with provision for feeding

and watering facilities in the enclosure is found to be ideal for dairy farming in Southern and Cauvery delta zones;

in High rainfall zone, thatched roof house with adequate protection during monsoon and winter season will be the best suitable house for higher milk production as well as for providing comfort to the animals;

in North Eastern and Western Zone tile roofed shelters were found to be the best one

Western zone cement sheet roofed shelters (dairy housing comfort index -0.7844) were found to be the best one

Hilly zone cement sheet roofed shelters were found to be the best one

Dairy housing comfort index constructed for each housing system using the factor and principal component analysis showed that animals under cement sheet and metal sheet roofed shelters in Hilly zone ranked first and second in comfort level

This was followed by tile roofed shelters in North Eastern zone (3rd rank) and thatched housing in Hilly zone (4th rank).

Findings showed that the average number of animals per farm was 6.34, 7.62, 8.60, 2.48, 7.35, 10.06 and 4.67.The average milk production per farm was 45.35, 55.00, 71.07, 27.35, 56.56, 69.89 and 34.53 litres per day in North Eastern, North Western, Western, Hilly, Southern, Cauvery Delta and High Rainfall zone respectively

The average milk production per animal was 6.83, 8.55, 7.52, 11.15, 7.74, 7.65 and 7.71 litres per day in different agro-climatic zones.

The average floor space per animal was found to be 7.16, 6.53, 5.58,7.66, 4.77,3.09 and 3.96 m2 per animal in North Eastern, North Western, Western, Hilly

Tile roofed housing North Eastern Zone

Cement sheet roofed housing - Western Zone

Thatch roofed housing North Western Zone

Metal sheet roofed housing Hilly Zone

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zone, Southern zone, Cauvery Delta Zone and High Rainfall zones respectively

Influence of early weaning on productive performance In Large White Yorkshire pigs Groups weaned at 28 and 42 days showed similar

and better feed efficiency (3.35 ± 0.06 and 3.31 ± 0.20 respectively) compared to 56 days weaning group (4.15 ± 0.29).

Number of days to post-weaning estrus was significantly (P < 0.05) less and the number of days from farrowing to subsequent estrus was significantly (P < 0.01) less in Large White Yorkshire sows when the piglets were weaned at 28 days of age.

Both 28 days and 42 days weaning groups showed similar and better feed efficiency (3.35 ± 0.06 and 3.31 ± 0.20 respectively) compared to 56 days weaning group (4.15 ± 0.29) .Weaning to estrus (days) and farrowing to estrus intervals (days) in sows was less in 28 days weaning group than 42 days weaning group

Effect of environmental stress on dairy cattle under different housing patterns in north and western regions of Tamil Nadu Based on the ranking of dairy housing comfort index,

in North Eastern zone, tile roofed shelters were found to be the best one. The next suitable types were thatched housing followed by cement sheet roofed, metal sheet roofed and lastly open housing.

In North Western zone tile roofed shelters were found to be the best one. The next suitable types were metal sheet roofed housing followed by cement sheet roofed, open and lastly thatched housing.

In Western zone cement sheet roofed shelters were found to be the best one. The next suitable types were open housing followed by thatched, metal sheet roofed, and lastly tile housing.

In Hilly zone cement sheet roofed shelters were found to be the best one. The next suitable types were metal sheet roofed housing followed by thatched (dairy housing comfort index 0.9113), plastic wrapped and lastly tile roofed housing.

Assessment of estrus specific pheromones with reference to kit development and enhancement of the reproductive efficiency in buffaloes It is a collaborative scheme with Bharathidasan

University, Trichirappally under the sponsorship of Department of Biotechnology, New Delhi.

Urinary pheromones were cross checked with the faeces, saliva and vaginal mucous.

4-methyl phenol and 9-octodecoinoic acid were specifically present at estrus stage of natural estrous cycle and in synchronized animals .

Presence of 4-methyl phenol and 9-octodecoinoic acid in the urine and saliva during estrus stage was confirmed.

It is concluded that female saliva, urine and vaginal mucus probably involves in the pheromonal communication.

Improvement of feed resources and nutrient utilization in raising animal production The effect of nano-calcium phosphate supplementation

on performance of broilers was studied. The calcium phosphate nano particles contained

30.81% of calcium and 15.48% of Phosphorus The calcium phosphate nano particles were spherical

in shape and were measuring between 20 and 90 nanometers.

In in vitro cyto toxicity study, the calcium phosphate nano particles (10mg/ml) were not toxic.

Dicalcium phosphate supplementation can be reduced to 50% by calcium phosphate nano particles and Calcium phosphorus supplementation can be achieved by single source in mineral mixture instead of two or more sources needed to meet the requirement

Calcium phosphate nano particles reduces the quantity of supplementation by 50% and thus paves way for reduction in cost of supplementation and environmental pollution due to excess phosphorus excretion can be avoided by calcium phosphate nano particles supplementation

Estimation of methane emission under different feeding systems and development of mitigation strategies - In vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) and methane emission of various feeds and fodders Highest in vitro true digestibility of dry matter was

recorded in cereal grains followed by the oil cakes. Lowest in vitro true digestibility of dry matter was

observed in crop residues such as paddy (Oryza sativa) straw, sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) tops, ragi (Eleusine coracana) straw and sorghum (sorghum vulgare) stover.

In vitro true digestibility of dry matter of different complete feeds ranged from 40.27 to 56.33%.

Methane emission at half life of concentrate feed ingredients ranged from 1.18 to 10.37 ml/100 mg TDDM. Methane emission at 24 h was highest in bajra (Pennisetum typhoides) grain (10.52 ml/100

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mg TDDM) compared to all other concentrate feed ingredients.

Among different fibrous feeds, sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) bagasse produced maximum methane at half life (14.30 ml/100 mg TDDM).

Average methane emission at half life was maximum in crop residues (7.02 ml/100 mg TDDM) compared to all other feedstuffs.

Methane emission of different complete feeds at half life ranged from 4.31 to 5.85 ml/100 mg TDDM.

In vitro dry matter digestibility and methane emission of different feed and fodders were carried out.

Based on the methane emission, suitable mitigation strategies will be developed to increase the animal productivity by using feed additives

RIL - ‘Establishment of Radio Isotope and Trace mineral Laboratory’ In vitro study was conducted to match the enzyme

produced from identified substrate at optimised conditions with crop residues

The per cent improvement in in vitro dry matter degradability over control for paddy straw was 13.13, 6.19 and 3.97 respectively for level-1, level-3 and level-2 supplementation of crude enzyme extract.

The per cent improvement in in vitro dry matter degradability over control for Sugarcane tops was 22.92, 5.46 and 4.13 respectively for level-2, level-3 and level-1 supplementation of crude enzyme extract.

The crop residues were tested by supplementing with the respective level of crude enzyme extract and compared with equivalent quantity of Trichoderma viridae fermented substrate through in vitro degradability of dry matter, NDF and ADF. There was no significant (p>0.05) variation between in vitro degradability of dry matter on supplementation with crude enzyme extract or Trichoderma viridae fermented paddy husk in the case of sorghum stover and paddy straw. However in the case of sugarcane tops crude enzyme extract supplementation had significantly (p<0.05) higher in vitro degradability of dry matter compared to supplementation with Trichoderma viridae fermented paddy husk.

No significant difference (p>0.05) existed in in vitro degradability of NDF and ADF on supplementation with crude enzyme extract or Trichoderma viridae fermented paddy husk in the case of all crop

residues viz., sorghum stover, paddy straw and sugarcane tops.

To augment animal productivity by producing residue free animal produce screening of agro industrial fibrous byproducts for their suitability in production of fibrolytic enzymes

Optimizing the inclusion level of deoiled rice bran with rice gruel to augment rumen microbial biomass In vitro study was conducted to examine the efficacy

of different protein fractions of DORB on microbial biomass production. It was observed that the per cent microbial biomass produced by protein fraction A, B1, B2, B3, and C were 14.21, 1.88, 23.02 , 0.77 and 2.79 respectively leading to 42.68 per cent of microbial biomass when all the protein fraction were put together.

It was observed that the surplus digestible organic matter (83 g) requires 2.7g of nitrogen to ensure maximum rumen microbial biomass production. This 2.7 g of nitrogen supplied through 5.8 g of urea along with 2 kg of DORB, 5 litres of rice gruel, 5 kg of paddy straw and 10 kg of green grass, in an in vivo trial lasting for 30 days with 10 dairy cows showed that the average milk yield was significantly (p <0.05) increased by 302 ml.

It is concluded that the cost benefit of ` 5.40 is possible to achieve through supplemental strategy of 5.8 g of urea along with 2 kg of DORB, 5 litres of rice gruel, 5 kg of paddy straw and10 kg of green grass.

Strategic supplementation of Acacia nilotica pods to rice gruel to maximize rumen microbial biomass The protein fractions of Acacia nilotica pods “A”,”

B1”, “B2”, “B3” and “C” pods contained 29.74, 7.68, 9.84, 6.80 and 45.94 per cent respectively.

Optimum rumen microbial biomass in Acacia nilotica pods was facilitated by the presence of rapidly degradable nitrogen (29.74 per cent) than slowly degradable nitrogen (24.32 per cent).

Highest efficiency of microbial biomass per g of nitrogen was observed in protein fraction “A” (4.12 g) of Acacia nilotica pods followed by protein fraction “B2” (2.98 g).

The palatability trial conducted, suggested that 84.83 g of ground Acacia nilotica pods was consumed by calves as against only 18.45 g in unground Acacia nilotica pods.

The desired ratio of organic matter: nitrogen was found out to be 1000:30.74 in Acacia nilotica pods

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containing 18.09 per cent crude protein or 2.89 per cent of nitrogen and 94 percent of organic matter to exploit maximum microbial nitrogen synthesis.

Efficacy of biocholine supplementation on the performance of broilers Supplementation of Biocholine-60 @1.0 kg / ton of

broiler diet resulted in comparable body weight gain and FCR with choline chloride (60%) supplemented group.

Effect of feeding Zymos-N on the performance of broilers Zymos-N @ 300 g / ton of feed along with NSP

degrading enzymes supplementation in broiler birds had beneficial effects such as feed intake, body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, nutrient digestibility, intestinal length, villi height and width in duodenum, jejunum and ileum and less feed cost per kilogram of live weight and litter moisture.

Efficacy of salcochek in maintaining the gut health and reducing the impact of clostridium species induced enteritis in broilers Feed conversion efficiency was numerically better

in SALCOCHEK supplemented groups. The feed cost per kg live weight was low in SALCOCHEK supplemented group when compared to un-supplemented groups.

All India Co-ordinated Research Project on Post Harvest Technology This network project has 11 sub-projects. The

following are the scientific utilities of the project. The developed m-PCR technique for rapid

detection of Salmonella spp, Staphylococcus aureu, Listeria monocytogenes and Campylobacter jejuni

from chicken meat and mutton within 24 hours will be useful for screening and monitoring meat in the processing line for safe delivery of meat.

Different models (CAD designs) for rural slaughter houses prepared have been provided to entrepreneurs establishing meat processing units and will be useful for the corporations/ municipalities to prescribe standards and eventually have uniform slaughter houses.

The electrical stunner has been commercialised and has been marketed to various institutions involved in slaughter and dressing of food animals such as local bodies (Dharmapuri Municipality), educational and research institutes (National Research Centre on Meat, Hyderabad; Veterinary College and Research Institute, Namakkal; Veterinary College, Hassan) and private enterprises ( Emas Processing Centre).

The mobile poultry slaughter and processing unit developed will be ready for commercialisation and the technology can be provided to entrepreneurs with limited resources to establish mobile poultry processing plants.

Chicken and buffalo meat based extruded products have been developed with rice, maida, tapioca and corn flour which can be commercialized as a snack meat product.

The pet food developed using various offals of pig and poultry, market waste such as vegetables, fruits will help in controlling the environment pollution and wealth has been generated from waste.

The low cost mobile scalding unit, mechanical and manual sausage stuffer developed will be ready for commercialisation and the technology can be provided to entrepreneurs with limited resources to establish pig and poultry processing plants, and meat products processing centres respectively.

The developed m-PCR technique for rapid and simultaneous identification of meats of different species of birds (emu, chicken, turkey, duck, quails) will be useful in autheticationg the species of origin of meats, whenever the need arises.

Different models (CAD designs) for small meat stalls with poultry processing facilities prepared have been will be useful for the corporations/ municipalities to prescribe standards and eventually have uniform meat stalls.Detection of food pathogens by PCR

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Different models for meat stalls exclusively for processing and marketing small ruminants and large ruminants prepared have been provided to entrepreneurs establishing private meat stalls, which will also be useful for the corporations/ municipalities to prescribe standards and eventually have uniform meat stalls.

Influence of Age and Rearing system on Hematological and serum Biochemical profile in pearl Guinea fowl Older guinea fowls (12-16 weeks) had higher

(P<0.05) haemoglobin per cent, Packed cell volume and heterophil per cent. Age (4 -16 weeks) did not influence the total erythrocyte count (TEC), total leucocyte count (TLC), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) values, nor did it have any influence on the eosinophil and monocyte count in pearl guinea fowl.

In almost all the biochemical parameters studied, older birds (12 - 16 weeks) had significantly (P<0.01) higher levels of serum total protein, albumin and globulin. Although serum calcium was unaffected by age, serum phosphorus, cholesterol and triglyceride were higher (P<0.01) in older birds (12 - 16 weeks). A higher heterophil to lymphocyte ratio, identified older birds (12 - 16 week) to be more stressed than the younger (4 - 8 week) guinea fowls.

Among sexes, males exhibited higher (P<0.05) TEC, haemoglobin and packed cell volume levels and mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) was higher (P<0.05) in female. Eosinophil and monocyte count were higher (P<0.01) in males. Among the biochemical parameters studied, males had higher (P<0.05) levels of serum protein, albumin, globulin and serum phosphorus, while females had higher (P<0.05) cholesterol and triglyceride values.

Guinea fowls reared in cages had significantly higher (P<0.01) TEC, TLC, haemoglobin and PCV values while birds reared on floor had higher (P<0.01) MCV and MCH values. Floor reared birds had higher (P<0.01) eosinophil and monocyte count while birds in cages had higher (P<0.01) heterophil per cent. Serum albumin, calcium and phosphorus was higher (P<0.01) in floor reared guinea fowl while cage reared birds had higher (P<0.01) cholesterol and triglyceride. Guinea fowls reared on floor had higher (P<0.01) serum corticosterone levels than those reared in cages but the heterophil to lymphocyte ratio was higher (P<0.01) in cage reared guinea fowl.

Influence of nest box on the reproductive performance of Japanese Quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) Japanese quail laid significantly more eggs in

nest box treatments. 1 nest box per 5 female gave significantly (p<0.05) best egg production (61.38+1.80). More nest boxes resulted in more eggs and also more eggs in nest box than floor. Japanese quail preferred green and white nest box.

Floor eggs weighed more while nest eggs produced heavier chick weight. Significantly higher fertility in nest box eggs than floor eggs was observed. Total hatchability was higher in nest box eggs than floor. Dead germ and dead in shell were not influenced by nest box. Nest box eggs had fewer microbes in their shell than floor eggs. Providing nest box to Japanese quail increased revenue through more eggs and more chicks hatched.

Dietary crude protein requirement of Guinea fowl for meat production Guinea fowl keet fed with 24.50, 26.50 and 22.50 per

cent of dietary crude protein level during 0-4 weeks of age showed no significant difference in the body weight, body weight gain, feed consumption and feed efficiency.

Guinea fowls had significantly better body weight with 19 per cent of dietary crude protein levels followed by 17 per cent and 15 per cent protein supplemented with lysine and methionine (LM) during 9 to 16 week of age. There was no effect of different dietary crude protein levels on feed consumption, livability and serum protein levels during 0 to 16 weeks of age. Guinea fowl keets fed on higher protein (T2) had better ready to cook yield followed by control (T1) and low protein.

On the basis of better growth performance, serum protein, carcass characteristics and benefit cost ratio, it was concluded that Guinea fowl can be fed with lower protein at 22.50 per cent for 0 to 4 weeks, 18.50 (LM) per cent for 5 to 8 weeks and 15 (LM) per cent for 9 to16 weeks of age.

Biological Strategies to address environmental challenges in Broiler production Methylomonas methanica bacteria in litter recorded

numerical reduction in per cent carbon, hydrogen and BMP value of litter but did not influence other litter parameters. Moisture, pH and nitrogen showed positive correlation among themselves while total solids showed negative correlation with moisture, pH and nitrogen. At sixth week of age it was found that carbon and hydrogen

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was positively correlated. Treatments groups with reduced protein in diet with enzyme supplementation (T3) followed by low protein with enzyme supplementation and Methylomonas methanicain in litter (T6) recorded highest benefit cost ratio.

From the study it is concluded that low protein diet with balanced amino acid profile and supplementation of protease enzyme was resulted in reduce nitrogen excretion in litter thereby reduced emission of ammonia and nitrous oxide without affecting bird’s performance. Addition of methanotrophic bacteria in litter had marginal effect on reducing methane emission from poultry litter.

Prioritization of chicken pullet layer nutrition to improve layer performance Two biological experiments were carried out

to analyse and find out the optimum energy, protein and calcium requirements in pre-lay pullet diets under humid tropical condition. Both the experiments involve commercial layers (Bovans) from 15th week of age up to 43 weeks in the first experiment and 55 weeks in the second experiment. Experiment I involved different protein and energy groups, with added lysine and methionine in one group and with added oil in one group during pre-lay period. After which birds in all the treatments were placed under standard layer feed as per BIS.

Pullets fed on high energy and protein pre-lay diets of 2700 Kcal and 18 per cent protein gave significantly (P<0.05) better body weight at sexual maturity, weight gain during transition period, better feed efficiency at both sexual maturity and during transition period and also had best hen day and hen housed egg production.

Though all the treatments had a good egg feed price ratio of above 1.4, highest egg feed price ratio was obtained with the high energy and high protein group fed with 2 per cent calcium.

Comparative evaluation of different vegetable oils in broiler ration An experiment was conducted in commercial

broilers for a period of six weeks to study the use of different vegetable oils with respect to production performance, carcass characteristics, blood parameters and relative economics.

Based upon this study, it is concluded that inclusion of different vegetable oils viz. coconut oil, groundnut oil, maize oil, palm oil, ricebran oil, soyabean oil

and sunflower oil in broiler diets did not affect the production performance and carcass characteristics. However, inclusion of soyabean oil and maize oil could fetch the high return over feed cost compared to other vegetable oils.

Sustainable rural livelihood through backyard guinea fowl farming in Thiruvannamalai district of Tamil Nadu This Project has been carried out to popularize guinea

fowl farming as an independent entrepreneurial activity through training on scientific guinea fowl farming to the rural women self help groups (SHG).

A total of twenty villages have been covered under the project and total of 400 self help group women were selected after initial motivation, and offered training and critical inputs.

Routine monitoring of the production and health status was carried out at the field level.

Activities like guinea fowl farming, feed mixing, hatchery management were covered through training and demonstration and backyard guinea fowl farming was popularized.

Sustainability of this programme was achieved by hatching the eggs using country chicken. This project finds a methodology for scientific guinea fowl farming in backyard among the tribal people. Guinea fowl meat and eggs obtained from the critical inputs distributed through the scheme made a significant contribution for the nutritional security and economic upliftment of the rural people.

Integrated Agro-Meteorological Advisory Services One hundred and four weather based bulletins (bi-

weekly) were issued for the year 2011-12 covering 361 days for the benefit of poultry and agricultural farming for Namakkal, Salem, Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri districts of North West Agroclimatic zone of Tamil Nadu. For Namakkal district, advisory on agriculture was provided by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Namakkal. Bulletins were issued in Tamil to 15 selected poultry farmers by post and widely circulated using local Tamil dailies, local TV channels and AIR, Trichy. The English version of the same was sent regularly to IMD, Pune for National Level Advisory preparation and to TANUVAS for website hosting and to TNAU for composite bulletin preparation for entire Tamil Nadu. Total precipitation recorded in 2011 was 835.5 mm.

The findings of pattern of climatic changes help to fine-tune the management in the farms for vaccination, feeding, summer management and for planning feeding regimens in poultry.

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Impact of Shelter designs on the production performance of dairy animals in east and southern regions of Tamil Nadu A study was carried out to assess the impact of

shelter designs on the production performance of dairy cattle in the three selected agro – climatic zones of Tamil Nadu. viz. Southern, Cauvery delta and High rainfall zones. The average herd size per farm was 7.35, 10.06 and 4.67; average milk production per farm/day was 56.56, 69.89 and 34.53 l; average milk production per animal/day was 7.74, 7.65 and 7.71 l in Southern, Cauvery delta and High rainfall zones respectively. Thatch roofed shelters were found more in Cauvery delta zone, Metal roof in High rainfall zone and Asbestos roof in Southern zone. RCC, Mud and Stone floorings were found commonly in all the zones. Highest mean milk yield (13.4±0.2 L/Day) was recorded in metal shed in Cauvery delta zone during South West monsoon, whereas lowest daily mean milk yield (6.3±0.4 L/Day) was recorded during summer in open type shed in Southern zone.

Factor analysis study of the climatic, physiological and production parameters in all the zones revealed that in Southern zone the suitability of the housing systems in descending order were open housing, thatch roofed, asbestos roofed, tile roofed and metal sheet housing respectively. In Cauvery delta zone, the order was open housing shelters, asbestos roof, thatch roof, tile roof and metal roof housing respectively. In High rainfall zone the order were thatch roof, metal roof, asbestos roof, open housing and tile roof housing respectively. Open housing system with provision for feeding and watering facilities in the enclosure has been found to be ideal for dairy farming in Southern and Cauvery delta zones.

In High rainfall zone, thatched roof house with adequate protection during monsoon and winter seasons will be the best suitable house for higher milk production as well as for providing comfort to the dairy animals.

CLINICS

Cutaneous adverse food reaction in dogs (P G diploma in Companion animals practice) The study was carried out at Madras Veterinary

College Teaching Hospital at the Small Animal Dermatology clinic for a period of one semester. Six apparently healthy dogs and 30 dogs affected

with cutaneous adverse food reactions were studied. Intradermal skin testing, serum testing, dietary trial were carried out.

During intradermal testing of Group I (control) and II (test) dogs, all showed positive reaction to variety of intradermal allergens including the food allergens which the dog had never consumed earlier with 60 % positive reaction to chicken, 33 to egg, 46 to wheat, 26 to beef, 40 to dhal, and 13 % each to mutton and carrot. During the dietary trial of 30 selected cases, it was concluded that chicken and egg (80% each), and wheat (70%) were predominant allergens in and around Chennai. Other allergens causing allergy to dogs included beef and ragi (23% each), dhal (20%). There was no allergic response to fish and mutton. The results of the study revealed that the other allergens causing allergy to dogs included beef and ragi (23% each), dhal (20%). There was no allergic response to fish and mutton.

Diagnostic evaluation of gastric Helicobacter infection in dogs from oral cavity by PCR. The present study was carried out to study

the c l inicopathological , gastroscopic and histopathological changes in gastric Helicobacter infection in dogs, to screen apparently healthy dogs and gastric Helicobacter infected dogs for the presence of the organism in the oral cavity and evaluate their diagnostic correlation.

Major clinical signs noticed in Helicobacter associated gastritis were anorexia or inappetence, chronic vomiting, melena and weight loss and minor signs included fever, diarrhoea, haematemesis, pica and abdominal pain.

The most common gastroscopic findings were erosions and ulcers and most frequent site of occurrence of lesions was fundus.

The major histopathological changes in gastric tissue in Helicobacter associated gastritis were lymphocytic plasmacytic type of gastritis, moderate epithelial injury, accumulation of lymphocytes in the glandular region and fibrosis.

Helicobacters identified in the oral cavity were Flexispira rappini and those from gastric biopsy were H.bizzozeronii and H.salomonis.

Nested PCR was found to be superior over single PCR in detecting Helicobacter species from saliva. From the results of PCR of saliva it was evident that Helicobacter species was highly prevalent in the oral cavity of apparently healthy animals.

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Comparative efficacy of diagnostic tests in early diagnosis of canine liver diseases The incidence of canine liver diseases was

0.15 per cent of total number of medical cases attended and 0.43 per cent of the gastrointestinal case loads of the Madras Veterinary College Teaching Hospital.

The most common liver disease was that of parenchymal disorders with 73 percent incidence (73/100), followed by biliary disorders 18 per cent (18/100) and neoplastic disorder 9 per cent (9/100).

Ultrasound imaging was deployed and the same was found to have better diagnostic yield.

Histopathology formed the gold standard in classification of type of liver diseases. 3D ultrasonography studies helped in better visualisation of lesions in liver diseases.

Isoflurane sparing effect of tramadol or butarphenol in diazepam premedicated and propofol induced dogs The study was carried out in eighteen healthy

dogs that were presented for ovariohysterectomy in the Small Animal Surgery Unit of Madras Veterinary College. The animals were divided into three groups; with group 1 being control group was administered diazepam @ 0.25mg/kg bwt intravenously. Group II was administered diazepam @ 0.25mg/kg bwt intravenously followed by tramadol @ 2 mg / kg. III group received diazepam @ 0.25mg/kg bwt intravenously and butarphanol @0.1 mg/kg intravenously. The study showed that the isoflurane vaporizer setting and total liquid to be least required in group III followed by group II. The cardiopulmonary changes were also minimal and within acceptable limit. Hence it is concluded that the combination diazepam- butarphanol-propofol-isoflurane was the best combination in sparing isoflurane and is a better anaesthetic protocol for ovariohysterectomy.

Management of radian and tibial fractures in dogs using hybrid external skeletal fixators The study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of

hybrid external fixators for open and comminuted distal diaphyseal fractures or juxta articular fractures in 12 dogs presented to the Madras Veterinary College teaching hospital. The dogs were divided into two groups as follows: Group I: open / communited distal diaphyseal fractures of radius. Group II: open/ communicated distal diaphyseal fractures of tibia. the hybrid external skeletal fixator consisted of single or double aluminium

or stainless steel external ring, k wires, smooth stienmann pins, KE and A.O mini clamps and two stainless steel connecting rods. This type of fixator was found to provide precise anatomical reduction, functional weight bearing status, prevented muscle atrophy and also hastened fracture healing. Hence it is concluded that hybrid external skeletal fixator provided stable fixation for satisfactory management of distal radial and tibial fractures.

Correlation of imaging, morphological and histopathological changes in uterine diseases in dogs The study was carried out in 25 clinical cases of

uterine diseases brought to Small Animal Surgical Outpatient Unit in Madras Veterinary College teaching hospital. Density of uterus was assessed in the abdominal radiograph and the echogenicity and uterine wall thickness was measured using Ultrasonography. Intraoperatively, appearance, consistency, size, colour of the uterus were recorded. Histopathology and micrometry were done as confirmation. Based on the study results it was concluded that radiography and Ultrasonography cannot provide accurate differential diagnosis for pyometra and cystic endometrial hyperplasia. Confirmatory differential diagnosis of this case can be done by histopathology only.

Tolfenamic acid and phenylbutazone as postoperative analgesic for equine castration. T h e s t u d y w a s c o n d u c t e d t o e v a l u a t e

postoperative analgesia offered by tolfenamic acid and phenylbutazone for castration in equines, premedicated with xylazine and induced with ketamine so as to identify a suitable analgesic agent for field practice. The study was carried out on 12 horses. Group I received phenylbutazone @ 4 mg/kg bwt intramuscularly. Group II received tolfenamic acid @ 4 mg/kg bwt intravenously as an analgesic. The period of study was for 4 hours. The direct behavioural assessment scores were found to increase considerably on day 1 followed by gradual decrease on day 2 and 3. Hence it was concluded both these drugs were suitable analgesic agent postoperatively.

Regenerative therapy using injectable porcine urinary bladder collagen and autologous platelet rich plasma for degenerative joint disease of coxofemoral joint in dogs The study was conducted on 24 animals reporting to

the small animal orthopaedic ward unit. They were divided into 4 groups. Group I received treatment

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with ringer’s lactate. GroupII: urinary bladder matrix- extracellular matrix. Group III platelet rich plasma. Group IV urinary bladder extracellular matrix and platelet rich plasma. The study was done to evaluate autologous platelet rich plasma and porcine urinary bladder collagen matrix as extracellular matrix for regeneration of articular cartilage of degenerative joint disease of coxofemoral joint in dogs.

Histochemistry and flow cytometry on the Bursa of Fabricius in Chicken (Gallus domesticus) Histochemical and flowcytometric studies were

conducted in Bursa of Fabricius of different age groups of broiler chicken . All of the bursa was made up of three tunics viz outer serosa, middle muscularis and inner mucosa. Mucosa is lined by pseudostratified columnar epithelium consisting of FAE and IFE. The lamina propria was filled with lymphoid follicles which consisted of outer cortex and inner medulla.

The histochemical and histoenzymic distribution was demonstrated in all the age groups studied. Flowcytometric analysis of Bu 1a+, B Cell count and Cde3, CD4 and CD8 T cell counts was done in the bursa of different age groups in both vaccinated and non-vaccinated broiler chicken

Microanatomical studies on the Parotid and Mandibular Salivary Glands in Sheep (Ovis aries)” Histogenesis, histomorphology and histochemical

studies of the parotid and mandibular salivary glands was conducted in different prenatal and post-natal age groups of sheep. The primordial anlage and sequential changes in the development of both the glands were recorded. Histochemical and histoenzymic localization and lectin histochemistry of both the glands was observed in different postnatal age groups. Ultrastructural details of both parotid and mandibular salivary glands were recorded.

Efficacy of Aglepristone and Prostaglandin F2α in Treatment of Open Cervix Pyometra in Bitches Eighteen bitches of different breeds that were

presented to the Small Animal Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit, Madras Veterinary College Teaching Hospital, with known breeding history of open cervix pyometra, were formed as experimental animal for the study. These bitches were randomly divided into three groups (n=6) viz. group I, II and III. Group I bitches were treated with Inj. Prostaglandin

F2α (Cloprostenol) at the dose rate of 5µg/kg body weight subcutaneously once daily, Group II bitches were treated with Inj. Aglepristone at the dose rate of 10mg/kg body weight subcutaneously on day 1, day 2, day 7 and day 15 (if not cured). Group III bitches were treated with Inj. Aglepristone plus Prostaglandin F2α

All the three treatment protocols (Prostaglandin F2α, Aglepristone and Aglepristone plus Prostaglandin F2α combination) were 100 per cent effective in open cervix pyometra of bitches. Further, Aglepristone was found to be better, since it required minimum number of administration without any side effect.

Developmental competence and gene expression pattern of in vitro fertilized and parthenogenetically activated preimplantation ovine embryos BCB test was an efficient non-invasive method to

select more homogenous and developmentally competent sheep oocytes for in vitro maturation (IVM).

Expression pattern of peroxiredoxins (PRDXs) showed vital information in oocytes, and at various developmental stages of IVF and PA preimplantation ovine embryos. To the best of our knowledge this is the first work on the peroxiredoxins (PRDXs 1-6) expression in ovine oocytes and embryos.

The pluripotent related genes (OCT 4 and NANOG) showed almost similar pattern of expression between IVF and PA embryos at all the developmental stages which indicated that PA embryos could be used as an alternate source for the production of embryonic stem cells (ESCs).

The stress response gene (HSP 90 β) showed increased levels after IVM and not much difference between IVF and PA embryos, thus indicating no significant differences between the quantum of stress experienced by the two groups of embryos which would affect the development of embryo quality and in turn affect the parthenote ESCs.

Evaluation of bull semen quality in relation to fertility associated proteins, lipid peroxidation and in vitro sperm characters Fresh semen samples were collected from 22

breeding bulls to screen for the presence of fertility associated proteins. Seminal plasma proteins revealed 15 numbers of protein bands.

The fertility related proteins such as 15/14 kDa and 28 kDa were present in all the 22 bulls (100 %), while 26 kDa protein was present in 18 bulls (81.82 %) and 55 kDa protein was present in 14 bulls (63.3 %).

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SDS- PAGE of sperm membrane protein revealed a total of 14 protein bands. Proteins related with bull fertility such as 15/14 kDa protein was observed in all the 22 bulls (100 %), 28 kDa protein was present in 21 bulls (95.45 %), 26 kDa protein was present in 14 bulls (63.64 %) and 55 kDa protein was present in only 11 bulls (50.00 %).

Heparin binding proteins of the seminal plasma revealed 7 protein bands, the fertility related proteins such as 15/14 kDa protein was present in all the 22 bulls (100 %) and 28 kDa protein was present in 18 bulls (81.82 %). 10 protein bands were observed in the heparin binding proteins of the sperm membrane. 15/14 kDa fertility related protein was present in all the bulls, while 28 kDa protein was present in 11 bulls (50.00 %).

Based on the presence of 28 kDa heparin binding protein in sperm membrane, bulls in the present study were categorized into group I bulls which were positive for the protein and group II bulls negative for the protein.

To study the effect of oxidative stress and role of fertility associated proteins on in vitro sperm characters, frozen thawed semen of the bulls evaluated for their in vitro sperm characters after treating with H2O2 and with fertility associated proteins.

In group I bulls, frozen thawed semen samples treated with 25µg of fertility associated protein had significantly (P < 0.01) lower level of MDA than the control at 60 min ((1.86 ± 0.17 vs 2.67 ± 0.19), at 120 min (2.25 ± 0.19 vs 2.79 ± 0.24) and at 180 min (2.81 ± 0.26 vs 3.77 ± 0.41). In group II bulls, semen samples treated with fertility associated protein also had significantly lower level of MDA than the control at 60 min (2.03 ± 0.12 vs 3.04 ± 0.15), at 120 min (2.55 ± 0.13 vs 3.61 ± 0.28) and at 180 min (3.16 ± 0.14 vs 4.84 ± 0.46).

When the samples were treated with fertility associated protein, group I bulls had significantly (P <0.05) less number of apoptotic cells than group II during incubation. Significant reductions in motility and velocity parameters were observed during incubation in control as well as in fertility associated protein treated samples. Treatment with fertility associated protein caused significant reductions

in motility parameters when compared to the untreated control. In group I bulls, the per cent of sperm cells with B pattern in heparin and heparin with fertility associated proteins treated groups were significantly (P < 0.01) higher than the control group at 60 min (62.37 ± 1.92, 63.24 ± 1.55 and 50.86

± 1.82), at 120 min (69.79 ± 1.97, 69.78 ± 1.41 and 53.10 ± 1.76) and at 180 min post thaw incubation (74.48 ± 1.98, 74.29 ± 1.33 and 54.79 ± 2.08). But B pattern cells in heparin treated group and heparin with fertility associated proteins treated group did not differ significantly at any point of incubation.

When the bulls were ranked by analyzing the in vitro sperm characters during incubation from immediate post thaw to 180 min in the frozen thawed semen samples by Duncan Multiple Range Test, bulls in the group I had 5 bulls each in rank 1 and rank 2, while only one bull was categorized under rank 3. Group II bulls had 4 bulls each in rank 1 and 2 and 3 bulls in rank 3.

Phamacokinetics and Tissue Depletion Studies of Levofloxacin in Broiler Chicken The pharmacokinetics following single intravenous,

oral and in-water administration and tissue depletion following single in-water administration of levofloxacin was investigated in healthy broiler chicken. The Cmax,, tmax and absolute bioavailability for oral group were 1.65 µg.ml-1, 2.19 h and 111.08 % respectively while for oral group 1.36 µg.ml-1, 4.63 h and 77.65 % respectively. The relative bioavailability for in-water group was 69.90 % in comparison to oral route.

Based on the results of pharmacokinetic study, it has been found that levofloxacin can be administered through oral and in-water route for the control of sensitive infections at a dosage regimen of 10 mg.kg-1 b. wt. administered orally or in-water once a day is suggested for treatment of levofloxacin sensitive infections in broiler chicken. Based on the tissue depletion study it is suggested that a withdrawal period of 3 days can be fixed as the concentration is below the MRL (for the fluoroquinolones) established by European Union.

The dosage Regimen of levofloxacin in broiler chicken was computed at 10 mg/kg b.wt. for administration through drinking water. A withdrawal period of 3 days was suggested for levofloxacin in broiler chicken at the above mentioned dose.

EXTENSION

Supply Chain Analysis of Livestock Products Marketing in Tamil Nadu Different marketing channels were identified for

different livestock products in Tamil Nadu. Price spread were worked out for different marketing channels and the efficiency of the channel in

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performing its efficiency was arrived out. Supply chain analysis for various livestock products would help the planners and policy makers to formulate strategies for proper market intervention. Forecasting the future demand and supply would help in understanding the future demand supply gap situations.

Evaluation of Major Ongoing Animal Husbandry and Fisheries Schemes in Tamil Nadu Selected schemes namely Oestrus synchronization,

supplementation of mineral mixture and fodder development might be implemented regularly with wide area of operation

Vaccination coverage should be augmented through wide publicity, as followed for polio vaccination in human being

District livestock farms may be strengthened with necessary infrastructural facilities so as to cater the needs of the local farmers

More mobile veterinary clinics may be established in the rural areas and they may regularly vaccinate and deworm the scheme animals which could improve the productivity

Findings of the study would help in proper implementation of the existing animal husbandry programmes and also help the planners and policy makers in drafting the 12th plan for livestock sector of Tamil Nadu.

Energy Use Efficiency of Dairy Farming in Tamil Nadu The overall total cost per animal per day in dairy

cow farms was higher (` 67.24) compared to buffalo dairy farm (` 56.70)

Main factors influencing the energy use efficiency of both cow and buffalo dairy farms were farm size (number of animals), breed, age and education.

The cow dairy farmers have rated low productivity, low price for cow milk, difficulty in availing credit and higher feed cost as the most important management, marketing, credit and socio-economic constraints respectively

Animal Husbandry Local Dialects in Tamil Nadu Around 2500 Animal Husbandry local dialects

words from Tamil Nadu were compiled. The collected dialects were classified according to

various AH management aspects. Identified local dialects were matched with technical

terms and documented. Local dialects in Animal Husbandry can be a

treasure in the development of Tamil language

With participatory approaches local dialects can be used in problem identification and technology transfer

Enhancing Livelihood of Rural Women through Livestock Production No beneficiaries have attended any livestock related

training and no scientific feeding technology was adopted in both large and small ruminant rearing

Mainly women were involved daily routine activities of large and small ruminant rearing, men were involved in outdoor activities like marketing, taking animals for hospitals, etc.

Paves way to impart Capacity building to all the beneficiaries in scientific rearing of livestock

Clearly demarcates the roles performed by each gender in livestock rearing

Helps to create awareness on azolla cultivation, value addition of milk, chaffing of fodder using chaff cutter

Awareness created on importance of mineral mixture and mineral block and beneficiaries started adoption of mineral mixture and mineral block

Development of e-Courses for B.V.Sc. & A.H. Degree Programme On line e-Contents for all 69 courses were developed

in moodle and Offline e-contents developed in Portable moodle and made available in DVD’s.

Peer review of e-contents by external exports completed and any time – anywhere learning facilitated

E-courses (portable) Additional features of animations, quiz, and audio

clips. First of its kind in veterinary education in India Lecture materials in downloadable audio files.

Economic impact of FMD and its control in the dairy and meat value chains of selected high potential regions in India: A pilot study Characterization and valuation of dairy and

meat market chains of sample districts of Andhra Pradesh.

Estimation of costs and losses associated with FMD on the dairy and meat value chain actors in Andhra Pradesh.

Characterization and quantification of the costs and benefits associated with FMD Control Programme.

The results of the study would be useful to study the economic impact of FMD on livestock population

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and the effect FMD Control Programme being implemented in selected districts.

Establishing Banana fibre extraction Unit A total of 191 trainees were trained in 3 batches

at KVK, Namakkal on Banana Fibre Extraction techniques.

Banana pseudo stem is utilized for fibre extraction. Banana plant extract is used as a manure for perineal

crops Banana fibre extraction and drying method (48 hrs.)

standardized.

Establishing Azolla Unit at KVK, Namakkal Azolla unit having Azolla pinnata and Azolla

microphylla was established at KVK,Namkkal Seven on-campus training were conducted for 137

beneficiaries Dairy farmers in Namakkal district have started

to take up the low cost production technology and we hope tat the azolla technology will be taken up more widely by dairy farmers and paddy growing farmers, in particular those who have too little land for fodder production.

Farmers are feeding Azolla in fresh and in dry weight basis farmers are advised 30% of azolla may be mixed with concentrate feeds.

Front Line Demonstration on Maize Frontline demonstrantion study on maize was

carried out. The study revealed the following : Average yield of FLDs (q/ha) – 66.3 q/ha Difference in average yield of FLDs and state

average yield – 19.3 q % increase over state average yield – 41% Fertigation of maize crop using all 19 water

soluble fertilizer standardized. Utilization of maize straw as a feed for buffaloes. Storage of maize straw with 1% salt addition

improved keeping quality of maize straw.

3.2 tons of maize yield/acre under drip irrigation.

FISHERIES

Production of bioactive compounds of Pharmaceutical value from marine Organisms The study on immune-modulatory property of

bivalve molluscs Donax sp in the trials with gold fish revealed that it possess immune-enhancement property

Non-specific immunity like lysozyme and neutrophil activity and the survival increased when fed with the diet supplemented with extracts of Donax sp.

The addition of methanolic extract prepared from sponge at 1% level enhanced immunity via prophenoloxidase activity (9.3%.) in Fenneropenaeus indicus.

Analgesic activity (AR of 1.9) and the presence of neuromodulatory substance in the extracts of Conus virgo species, neo-gastropod mollusc was confirmed in this study.

One training program entitled “Methods in bioactive substance screening from marine organisms” was organized which included hands on training on marine biodiversity and its conservation, bioactive substances from marine organisms and their isolation, extraction and partial purification of biomolecules, use of cell lines in screening them, microbial culture technique, antimicrobial screening, analysis of hemolytic, analgesic, immunity and neuromuscular activity. Bioassays were also demonstrated with Artemia and mouse.

Development of Multiplex PCR for the simultaneous detection of bacterial pathogens Salmonella, Vibrio cholerae and E. coli in fish and fishery products The following Multiplex PCR assays were developed

for the simultaneous detection of bacterial pathogens of fish and fishery products, which are useful in

Banana fibre extraction unit

Demonstration unit - Maize

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quality control laboratories and seafood processing industries as a rapid and reliable protocol for the detection of Salmonella, Vibrio cholerae and E. coli from fish and fishery products S. enteritidis and S. typhimurium using three

specific genes (invA, ent and rfbj) Toxin producing strains of Vibrio cholerae based

on genus specific and major toxin genes (rpoA, ctxA, rtxA, toxR and zot)

Enterotoxigenic (ETEC), Enterohaemorrhagic (EHEC), Enteropathogenic (EPEC) and Enteroaggregative (EAEC) E. coli strains using the strains specific genes (st1, stx, EAE and Agg)

Salmonella, Vibrio cholerae and E. coli using specific genes (invA, RtxA and phoA)

Capacity building of coastal fisher women through post-harvest technologies in fisheries Survey on current practices of fish curing revealed

that the quality of salt used and the salting and drying practices followed are far from acceptable standards.

Microbiological and biochemical assessment of quality of cured fish was carried out on monthly basis in fishes viz., sardine, seer fish, stolepherous and carangids

Hygienic handling of fishes and curing practices were developed

A Comparative Economic Evaluation of Carp and Tiger shrimp Culture Practices in Nellore District, Andhra Pradesh The observations / results recorded in this study was as follows :

Sl. No.

Parameters

Values in ` /Kg

Carp farming Shrimp farming

Marine Freshwater

1. Mean total capital investment ` 1.24.390 ` 1,44,900 ` 1,31,950

2. Mean total fixed cost / annum ` 39,420 ` 50,580 ` 45,440

3. Mean total variable cost / ha/annum ` 63,270 ` 1,04,370 ` 1,25,650

4. Mean total cost/ ha / annum ` 1,02,690 ` 1,54,950 ` 1,71,090

5. Mean production 2650 kg 2108 kg 1627 kg

6. Range of productivity/ha 1680-4400 kg - -

7. Overall mean net return ` 45,600 ` 4,42,680 ` 3,09,130

8. Overall mean net return range / ha ` 6500 – ` 2,50,200 ` 2,88,570 ` 1,39,140

9. Input-output ratio on the basis of total variable cost and total cost

1:1.42 and 1:1.69

1:1.23 and 1:1.69

1:1.4 and 1:1.55

Retail fish marketing of commercially important marine fishes in Thoothukudi city The mean per capita consumption of marine fish per

month was calculated as 1.25 kg. On an average a consumer household spent 1,800.64

to buy 9.40 kg of fishes. The per capita expenditure

on fish was 337.62 which included 259.15 on marine fish consumption.

The study revealed that 84.44% of the respondents preferred Saturday for fish consumption. With regard to the purchase of fish, husband bought fish was 21(46.66%), wives 15(33.33%), children

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5(11.11%), relatives 2 (4.44%) and friends 2(4.44%).

More than 40% of the respondents chose fish landing centre to purchase fish due to the reasons of reasonable price (12.68%) and freshness (12.39%).

Local retail markets and cycle vendors were chosen for mutual benefits (11.81%), availability (10.95%) and limited bargaining (10.08%).

Print media (news papers and magazines) played a key role in providing information on the retail fish price which accounted for 41%. Broadcast media (Satellite TV/Cable TV/Radio FM), covered 37% of consumers on fish market price information.

Studies on the Biodiversity of elasmobranch in Gulf of Mannar A detailed investigation was undertaken on the

biodiversity of elasmobranch in Gulf of Mannar coast. Specimens for the present investigation were collected from the catches of trawl net, bottom set gill net and hook and lines from the three landing centres namely, Mandapam, Thoothukudi and Tiruchendur in Gulf of Mannar. The occurrence and abundance of elasmobranch species were recorded twice in fifteen days from the above stations for the period of ten months from August 2010 to May 2011.

The species composition and abundance data were recorded during the four seasons namely, summer (Apr-May), pre-monsoon (Aug-Sep), monsoon (Oct-Dec) and post-monsoon (Jan-Mar) and biodiversity indices such as species richness, species diversity, species evenness, taxonomic diversity, average taxonomic diversity, variation in taxonomic diversity and total phylogenetic diversity were calculated using PRIMER v6 statistical package developed by Plymouth Marine Laboratory, UK.

A total of 72 species were recorded in the said three different stations of Gulf of Mannar belonging to 6 Order, 21 families and 42 genera. Among the 35 genera, Carcharhinus was found to have the largest representation with 11 species followed by the genus, Himantura with 7 species. Species richness, species diversity, taxonomic diversity were higher with less variation in Thoothukudi and Mandapam coasts compared to Tiruchendur coast.

Impact of fishing ban on fisheries and fishing communities Fishing is a major natural, renewable, open access

and resourceful industry of the world. It produces

more than 100 million tonnes of fish and fishery products every year and contributes to human welfare by providing livelihood for about 200 million people. Majority of the fishermen depends only upon fishing for their livelihood activities and hence due to over fishing the stock has been depleting day by day. At present, the foremost challenge to the fishery sector in India, is therefore, how to sustain the fish production to meet the increasing demand to the next decade by keeping in the view that increasing fish production is no longer the main target; but its sustainability is more important. Extra efforts are needed to properly manage the capture fisheries and to prevent their over exploitation. In order to conserve the fishery resource, ban on fishing should be done for the rejuvenation and regeneration of the stock.

The present investigation was carried out to study the impact of fishing ban on fisheries and fishing communities. Three fishing villages Thirespuram, Tharuvaikulam and Punnakayal were selected for the study based on the total number of available fishermen and number of crafts and gears used. Ninety fishermen were selected randomly from the selected villages and the data were collected through interview schedule and analyzed with statistical tools.

As far as impact of fishing ban is concerned, majority of the respondents indicated that the fishing ban for 45 days helps in the recruitment of fish stocks in this region (96.67%).

About 96.67% indicated that they were not getting income during the ban period, 88.88% of the respondents informed that they don’t have any employment during this ban period. Further, 94.44% of the fishermen said that lack of alternative income generating employment activities and 88.88% felt that inadequate subsidies as major constrains. In addition to this, 64.44% of the respondents reported that the Fishermen Cooperative Societies ware not running properly and about 61.11% indicated that lack of working capital was also a constraint. About 48.89% of the fishermen reported problem of debt as another constraint.

Impact of training programmes on Ornamental fish culture Ornamental fish keeping is becoming popular

as an easy and stress relieving hobby. About 7.2 million houses in the USA and 3.2 million in the European Union have an aquarium and the number is increasing day by day throughout the world.

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Although India is still in a marginal position, its trade is developing rapidly.

The present study was carried out to find out impact of training programmes on ornamental fish culture on the empowerment status of the trainees of Thoothukudi district.

Four blocks were selected for the study which included Srivaikundam, Alwarthirunagari and Thoothukudi for the main study and Ottapidaram for the pilot survey. A total of 120 trainees were selected by using proportionate random sampling technique. The data were collected from these three blocks through interview schedule and the data were analyzed with statistical tools.

Regarding the adoption of ornamental fish culture, the major problems identified were unavailabilty of adequate finance, land and lack of assured market. The trainees suggested that, banks and Government institutes should give sufficient financial support to start fish culture and subsidies to purchase the land to undertake fish farming.

Antagonistic effect of bacteria associated with marine ascidians against human and fish pathogenic bacteria The antagonistic properties of marine ascidians and

the bacteria associated with them were investigated A total of 590 bacterial isolates were characterized

up to generic level Methanol crude extract of one of the ascidians

Eudistoma viride showed good inhibitory activity against test organisms

Results have clearly demonstrated that some ascidians produce strong antibacterial compounds and bacteria from marine sources have good antagonistic activity

Nutrient removal from different wastewaters using micro and macro algae This research work was carried out with samples

collected from three different sources such as municipal wastewater, sewage water and seafood processing plant wastewater using microalgae and aquatic weeds (Lemna minor, Eichhornia crassipes) at four different dilutions [D0 (Raw) , D1 (25%), D2 (50%) and D3 (75%)]

The water quality parameters were analyzed once in three days and the experiment was conducted for 15 days. The concentration of microalgae was also calculated in different wastewater treatment systems. The maximum algal concentration of 5.0x105 cells/ml was noticed on 6th day in sewage wastewater at 75% dilution. In sea food processing

plant wastewater, the maximum of 4.1x105 cells/ml was noticed on 12th day at 25% dilution. The maximum algal concentration was noticed at the point of maximum PO4-P removal efficiency in all the three wastewaters.

In the case of aquatic weed treatment, L. minor and E. crassipes were inoculated separately at the rate of 0.6 kg wet wt /m2 and 10kg wet wt /m2 in 50 l tub containing wastewaters.

In seafood processing plant wastewater and municipal wastewater the maximum of 98% NO3-N was noticed in both Eichhornia and micro algal treatment at 75% dilution.

The micro algal treatment showed a significant difference in both nitrate (NO3 -N) and BOD removal efficiencies between dilutions and between the wastewaters at 1% level.

The present study clearly explains that micro algal biomass offers a very effective removal of NH3-N in seafood processing plant wastewater. E.crassipes is a potential species for wastewater treatment especially in NO3 -N, BOD and COD removal. L. minor is very effective in removing the PO4-P in all the three wastewaters.

Effect of environmental factors on the distribution and seasonal variation of biomass of plankton in the integrated freshwater fish ponds Plankton are known to play an important role in all

aquatic systems as they form basic food source for organisms of higher trophic level. Species composition and the seasonal variations of both phytoplankton and zooplankton biomass in freshwater systems are wholly influenced by physico-chemical conditions of water. Based on this, the present study was carried out to assess the effect of environmental factors on the distribution and seasonal variation of plankton biomass in the integrated fish culture system. Water and plankton samples were collected for water quality and productivity analysis from different fish culture systems located in the Fisheries College and Research Institute Campus, Thoothukudi. The fish culture system include, (i) Pond fertilized with goat manure with supplementary feeding (EP1), (ii) Pond fertilized with cattle manure without supplementary feeding (EP2), (iii) Pond with supplementary feeding only (EP3) and (iv) Mini-reservoir without supplementary feeding and organic manure (Control-EP4).The study was conducted for a period of seven months.

The ponds EP1, EP2 and EP3 were stocked with fish seeds such as catla, rohu, mrigal, silver carp, grass carp and common carp and the mini reservoir was

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stocked with above said carp species along with Pangassius spp (cat fish).

During the study period, a total of 21 species of phytoplankton and 30 species of zooplankton were recorded.

The range of biomass of phytoplankton recorded in the culture ponds were 1,685-25, 50,000 (cells/l), 3,775-13, 20,000 (cells/l), 4,075-10, 10,000 (cells/l) and 1,400-8, 85,000 (cells/l) in EP1, EP2, EP3 and EP4, respectively.

The biomass of zooplankton in terms of density was recorded in the range of 34-139, 41-121, 14-114 and 10-119 (nos/l) in EP1, EP2, EP3 and EP4, respectively.

While the overall Shannon Weiner’s diversity index (H) values for the phytoplankton was between 1.0 and 4.2, the diversity index value for the zooplankton was between 1.6 and 3.5.

The maximum average net fish production (3838 Kg/ha) was observed in EP1, followed by a production of 3574 Kg/ha in EP2. The control pond (EP4) had the least production of 1457 Kg/ha indicating the advantage of manure input in the carp ponds.

Development of Molecular immunodiagnostic kits for Hepatopancreatic parvovirus (HPV) in shrimp The following four technologies were developed

for first time in India to diagnosis of HPV in shrimp under the DBT scheme entitled “Development of molecular and immunodiagnostic kits for hepatopancreatic parvovirus (HPV) in shrimp”.1. Nested PCR diagnostic kit for hepatopancreatic

parvovirus (HPV) in shrimp.2. Loop mediated isothermal amplification

(LAMP) kit for hepatopancreatic parvovirus (HPV) in shrimp.

3. Latex agglutination test (LAT) kit for hepatopancreatic parvovirus (HPV) in shrimp.

4. Lateral flow test (LFT) kit for hepatopancreatic parvovirus (HPV) in shrimp.

Study of strain variation in Monodon baculovirus (MBV) infecting shrimp using Polymerase Chain Reaction Strain variation in MBV was identified and this

information will be helpful in development of molecular diagnostic kits (Nucleotide sequence of MBV was submitted to GenBank JQ 751059; JX 091340; JO 91341; JX 091342; JX 091343)

Specific detection of Aeromonas hydrophila infecting fish by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) A PCR based porin specific detection was developed

which will be helpful in Aeromonas hydrophila detection in fish (Nucleotide sequence of MBV was submitted to GenBank JXX 091344; JX 091345)

Differential expression of Toll-like Receptor 18 (TLR18) mRNA in food fishes Basal expression of TLR18 was identified in various

species of fishes for this first time. This information will be helpful to improving the immune status to protect fishes (Nucleotide sequence of TLR was submitted to GenBank JQ 627837)

Expression of Toll protein in a commercially important penaeid shrimp The existence of toll expression and its possibility

of inducing its expression by exposing the animals to vibrio was identified this information will be helpful improving the immune status to protect against infectious (Nucleotide sequence of TLR was submitted to GenBank JQ 751060)

Expression profile of Toll-like Receptors (TLR22 and TLR3) in Pangasius hypophthalmas induced by Poly I:C and Edwardsiella tarda The expression of TLR22 and TLR3 was identified

when exposed to Edwardsiella tarda and Poly I:C. This information will be helpful to improve the immune status of Pangasius.

Research Achievments

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