Journal Of Animal Science Research Articles

Effect of different energy and protein levels on growth performances and carcass yields of Sonali chicken

This study evaluated how varied energy and protein levels affect the growth and carcass traits of Sonali chickens. A 63-day experiment was conducted on 400-day-old Sonali chicks that were raised straight. The chicks were split into four groups of 100 birds apiece, which were then further separated into four subgroups of 25 birds each. The treatment groups were: T1 (2900 kcal/kg ME, 20% CP for starter and 3000 kcal/kg ME, 19% CP for grower); T2 (2900 kcal/kg ME, 21% CP for starter and 3000 kcal/kg ME, 20% CP for grower); T3 (2950 kcal/kg ME, 20% CP for starter and 3050 kcal/kg ME, 19% CP for grower) and T4 (2950 kcal/kg ME, 21% CP for starter and 3050 kcal/kg ME, 20% CP for grower) group. Sonali chicks were fed on starter diets from day old to 5 weeks of age and grower diets from 6 to 9 weeks of age. Results revealed that body weight was significantly (P<0.05) higher in the group having 2950 kcal/kg ME, 21% CP for starter and 3050 kcal/kg ME, 20% CP for grower at 9th weeks of age. In addition, FCR and total body weight gain showed significantly (P<0.05) better in the high nutrition group compared to other treated groups. Dressing percentage was numerically and abdominal fat was significantly (P<0.05) higher in the group having 2950 kcal/kg ME, 21% CP for starter and 3050 kcal/kg ME, 20% CP for grower compared to other groups. However, there were no significant differences (P>0.05) in skin, head, leg, liver, heart, gizzard, breast meat, drumstick meat, wing meat and thigh bone weight in relation to body weight among different dietary groups. Furthermore, despite the higher feed costs, the high nutrition group had higher selling price and profit margins per bird than the low nutrition diet. So, taken together, it can be concluded that a diet with high energy and high protein increases body weight and body weight gain and gives better FCR. Moreover, higher nutrition diet improves dressing yield, abdominal fat percentage and profit margins than the low nutrition diet. It is suggested that provision of energy (2950 kcal/kg ME for starter and 3050 kcal/kg ME for grower) and protein (21% CP for starter and 20% CP for grower) in the diet could be a potential energy and protein level for better performances of Sonali chicken. Bangladesh Journal of Animal Science 53(3): 101-110, 2024

Impact of heat stress on female reproduction in farm animals: challenges and possible remedies

Global warming poses significant challenges to agriculture, particularly within the livestock industry. Heat stress in animals refers to the physiological and metabolic distress experienced when environmental heat causes an animal’s body temperature to exceed its thermoneutral zone. Heat stress has a significant detrimental impact on reproductive outcomes, posing a direct threat to the profitability of livestock operations. Heat stress disrupts the normal hormonal balance essential for reproduction in female livestock, adversely affecting events of folliculogenesis and embryogenesis. As a result, the developmental competence of oocytes is compromised, which is crucial for successful fertilization and reproduction. Consequently, heat stress can lead to issues such as immature oocytes, atypical or sluggish embryonic development, silent estrus, and increased pregnancy loss causing a decline in reproductive rates and livestock owners face substantial financial losses. Despite using various cooling strategies, such as water sprinkler systems, cooling shades, and cooling devices, these measures are often insufficient to restore normal reproductive rates. Therefore, it is crucial to implement and explore novel strategies to enhance reproductive efficiency during periods of heat stress. Potential mitigation techniques include estrus synchronization, artificial insemination, hormonal alterations, embryo transfer, genetic engineering, sophisticated breeding strategies, the use of nutraceuticals, and changes in management practices. This review aims to consolidate recent findings on the adverse effects of heat stress on female reproduction, especially in tropical environments, and to evaluate potential strategies for improving summer fertility of livestock. Bangladesh Journal of Animal Science 53(3): 77-100, 2024

Productive and reproductive performances of buffaloes in Bhola district of Bangladesh

This study aimed to evaluate the productive and reproductive performance of buffaloes across five sub-districts (Burhanuddin, Lalmohan, Char Fasson, Bhola Sadar, and Tazumuddin) in the Bhola district of Bangladesh. A face-to-face survey was conducted with 309 buffalo farmers. Daily milk yield ranged from 1.2 to 4.3 liters/cow/day, with over 90% of farmers selling to Goalas (local milk collectors) at BDT 87±22/liter. Lower milk prices were often reported due to pre-arranged advance loans from milkmen. Significant difference (p < 0.05) was observed in milk yield across lactation stages, with the highest yields (2.9–3.9 L/day/buffalo) during the first 90 days. Most farmers (82%) relied solely on grazing in the Bathan system, without supplemental concentrate feed. Reproductive parameters showed significant variation (p < 0.05) across the sub-districts, with Lalmohan having the lowest age at sexual maturity (2.98±0.08 years) and the shortest postpartum heat period (57.1±13.62 days). Bhola Sadar had the shortest calving intervals (11.92±0.43 months) and gestation periods (297.10±6.97 days). Burhanuddin had the lowest number of services per conception (1.46±0.50). To improve buffalo farming outcomes, it is decisive to establish local cooperatives for fair milk pricing, introduce supplemental feeding, enhance access to breeding resources, and bolster financial support, educational programs, and infrastructure. Bangladesh Journal of Animal Science 53(3): 111-120, 2024

319 Reflections on the most cited paper in the ninety-nine-year history of Canadian Society of Animal Science

Abstract Measurement of nutrient digestibility is a key pillar in estimating the value of feeds for livestock. Conditions are not always amendable to estimating feed digestibility through total collection methods, and as a result digestibility markers are frequently employed. The first “Digestibility markers” were reported in the early 1900s where colored glass beads were used to estimate the flow of digesta through the digestive tract. Subsequently, a myriad of digestibility markers has been assessed with the internal markers; acid insoluble ash, acid detergent lignin, indigestible neutral detergent fiber and n-alkanes and the external markers titanium dioxide and chromic oxide being the most common. Chromic oxide (Cr2O3) was first proposed as a digestibility maker in 1918 and continues to be widely used in modern day metabolism, confined performance and grazing livestock experiments. It was the demand to use chromic acid as a digestibility marker that led Terry and Mira Fenton to publish the article “An improved procedure for the determination of chromic oxide in feed and feces” in the Canadian Journal of Animal Science in 1979. This became the most cited article in the history of the journal with over 800 citations. The procedure eliminated the use of nitric acid in a pre-digestion step and ashing reduced the organic matter content, making it less likely that perchloric acid would be converted to anhydrous perchloric acid which poses an explosive hazard. The procedure continues to be widely used to measure Cr2O3 as a digestibility marker and has made a significant contribution to our assessment of the value of a wide range of feeds for Canadian livestock.

A comprehensive survey on the present scenario and future production potentials of small-scale turkey farming in Bangladesh

Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) is one of the potential species of specialized fowls, quite popular in western countries, has recently been introduced in Bangladesh, and gained considerable attention from small-scale poultry farmers. The purpose of this study was to assess the current scenario, production systems and potentialities of turkey farming in Bangladesh. Data were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire from 100 turkey farmers residing in rural areas in different districts of Bangladesh. The problems and prospects of turkey rearing in the selected areas were quantified and assessed. No illiterate farmers were involved in turkey farming and 97% of the farmers have small household with 3.67 members per family. Most of the farmers (60%) were medium income size with income range BDT 250001 to 400000 year. Most of the farmers (57%) reared turkey for meat purpose whereas the average turkey population per household was 43.20 birds. About 24% of farmers reared turkey in confinement system, and 76% of farmers reared in semi-intensive management system and 68% of farmers had no related training on turkey farming. All farmers use ready broiler/layer feed due to the unavailability of turkey feed that was bought from local market. Grazing was practiced to supply vegetative plants as diet for turkeys. Most of the farmers (86%) vaccinate turkey regularly, and among them 96% complained about vaccine unavailability. Average mortality was recorded at around 6.2%. All the farmers follow a natural breeding system for reproduction. The farmers mentioned that turkey farming is decreasing day by day due to unskilled farmers, lack of turkey ready feed, unavailability of vaccines and lack of marketing facilities. Collectively, it can be inferred that the introduction of ready-made turkey feed, ensuring vaccination, providing financial and technical assistance and offering training to small-scale turkey farmers are the pivotal factors in boosting small-scale turkey farming in Bangladesh. This, in turn, may have the potential to increase household income and generate employment opportunities for youth, rural women, and small-scale marginal farmers. Bangladesh Journal of Animal Science 53 (2): 40-54, 2024

Effect of butyrine glycerides on the performance metrics and egg quality in laying pullets

The chicken feed industry is very much interested in creating innovative solutions to address the issue of safer animal products due to the increasing customer demand and the prohibition on utilizing antibiotic growth boosters. Organic acids, especially butyric acid, when added to chicken diets, have several beneficial effects on health, productivity, and egg quality. These factors may lead to their substitution in animal production systems for antibiotics. The study was determined the effects of butyrine glycerides (BAG) supplementation on various aspects of egg production and egg quality in laying pullets. Three dietary treatments were randomly assigned to 48 NovoGen Brown laying pullets at 24 weeks of age. For eighteen weeks, the chickens were kept in a three-tiered pyramid-style cage. The chickens in the control group (T1) were fed a basal diet; in groups T2 and T3, the basal diet was supplemented with 0.033% and 0.066% butyrine glycerides, respectively. Throughout the 12 weeks trial, measurements were made of the quantity and weight of eggs laid, feed conversion, and egg quality. Dietary supplementation of butyrine glycerides contributed to a significantly (p<0.001) increased in the egg production, egg weight and egg mass in laying pullets. Similarly, egg quality parameters did not affect significantly except shell percentage, albumen index and Haugh unit at 28th weeks of supplementation. Taken altogether, it is said that BAG positively impacted the laying performances and egg quality of laying pullets. Bangladesh Journal of Animal Science 53 (2): 31-39, 2024

Performance evaluation of Indigenous and Garole crossbred sheep (F1) under semi-intensive management system

A crossbreeding program was sought to enhance the genetic attributes of coastal sheep by mating them with Garole rams. The breeding program involved a combination of two male Garole with a group of twenty indigenous ewes. These sheep were permitted to mate naturally, without external intervention. Data collection focused on key metrics like birth weight (kg lamb-1), litter size, sex of lambs, instances of dystocia, weaning weight (kg lamb-1), weaning age (days), body weight (kg), age at puberty (days), and mortality rates (%). Crossbred male lambs had an average birth weight of 1.48±0.12 kg, while female lambs averaged 1.57±0.10 kg. Male to female ratio among crossbred lambs was 54.1% to 45.9%. As for weaning, males and females averaged 151.92±2.24 days and 144.00±4.20 days, respectively, with respective weaning weights of 7.98±0.85 kg for males and 8.31±0.90 kg for females. Between 30 and 60 days, male and female lambs gained at 50.16±5.94 g day-1 and 51.44±7.82 g day-1, respectively. Between 331 and 360 days, growth rates were 15.33±3.84 g day-1 and 22.33±6.00 g day-1 for males and females respectively. Dystocia, or difficult births, occurred in 75% of cases. There was no mortality for male lambs, but female lambs experienced a 20% mortality rate. Crossbreeding has emerged as a viable strategy for increasing meat production due to enhanced growth rates and their adaptability to certain environments. It can be concluded that crossbreeding of indigenous coastal sheep with Garole ram can be carried out to increase body weight and ADG. Bangladesh Journal of Animal Science 53 (2): 55-67, 2024

Inclusion of dietary lysine on growth, carcass yields and serum biochemical indices in broiler chickens

The experiment was conducted to compare the effect of different sources of lysine on growth performance, carcass yields and serum biochemical parameters in broiler. A total of 400 Arbor Acres straight run chicks were randomly assigned into 4 different treatment groups for five weeks. The treatment groups were; T1 (100% Ajinomoto lysine), T2 (100% CJ lysine), T3(100% Natural lysine) and T4(50% Ajinomoto + 50% Natural lysine). Each treatment consisted of four replicates and of each 25 chicks. Throughout the experiment body weight, body weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio were recorded as growth performance. Carcass characteristics and blood biochemical profile were also taken after the end of feeding trial. The supplementation of different sources of lysine with feed had significant (P<0.05) effect on growth performances. Results showed that CJ lysine treated broilers had significantly (P<0.05) higher body weight and body weight gain at the end of the experiment compared to Ajinomoto and Natural lysine treated groups. FCR was improved significantly (P<0.05) in CJ lysine group (1.56) compare to the Ajinomoto group (1.69) and Natural lysine group (1.68). Abdominal fat weight showed significant (P<0.05) variation among different treatment groups. Based on the results of this study, it may be concluded that the supplementation of Ajinomoto lysine, CJ lysine and Natural lysine with feed could improve growth performance of broiler and CJ lysine could be considered as performance enhancer in broiler production. Bangladesh Journal of Animal Science 53 (2): 68-76, 2024

Performances of upgraded Dwarf-Fayoumi chicken genotype in different feeding systems under smallholder farm management

The experiment was conducted to evaluate the performance of upgraded Dwarf-Fayoumi genotype (IDC♂ × Fay♀) with three different feeding regimes from onset of lay to 72 weeks of age. A total of 90 IDC♂ × Fay♀ birds of third generation (F3) at 16 weeks of age were distributed to 15 selected farmers nearby three villages of Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh. The villages were Kewatkhali, Boyra and Sutiakhali that selected for intensive, semi-scavenging and scavenging feeding systems, respectively. Each farmer was also given 5 pullets and 1 cockerel. The birds of full feeding and semi-scavenging system were given 76 g and 38 g mash feed per day, respectively. Pullets of semi-scavenging condition were allowed to scavenge in the farmer homesteads. The birds under scavenging condition reared without supplementation and were allowed to scavenge all day long. Result showed a significant difference (p<0.05) among the feeding systems (intensive, semi-scavenging and scavenging) in production and reproduction traits, where intensive full feeding system exerted better performances. However, performance efficiency index (52.24), egg-feed price ratio (2.81) and return over feed cost (4.48) were found to be significantly higher (p<0.001) in semi-scavenging feeding system. The egg weight (p<0.01), breaking strength (p<0.01) and dry yolk weights (p<0.05) were significantly lower in the birds reared under scavenging feeding system, however, these traits were found statistically similar in the birds of intensive and semi-scavenging feeding system. Feeding systems had no impact on survivability of the experimental birds. Taking altogether, it could be concluded that IDC♂ × Fay♀ upgraded chicken under semi-scavenging system performed better than intensive and scavenging system under smallholder farm management. Bangladesh Journal of Animal Science 53 (1): 13-22, 2024

Factors affecting iodine content of cow milk-A review

This review discusses the importance of iodine as an essential nutrient for human health and the factors that can influence the concentration of iodine in cow milk. For an adult, the daily recommended requirement of iodine is 150 µg/day and the maximum tolerable limit ranges from 600 to 1100 µg/day. Cow milk is a significant source of iodine in many countries, particularly in areas where iodine-rich foods are not readily available. Therefore, evaluating the variables that affect the iodine content of cow milk is important. The iodine concentration of cow milk can vary depending on several factors such as genetics, diet, environment, management practices, season, and processing. Particularly, dietary supplementation and feed composition have been identified as the most impactful on milk's iodine levels, offering a practical approach to mitigating iodine deficiency. Furthermore, environmental factors like soil and water iodine content and management practices, including the type of farming, play substantial roles. Seasonal changes also significantly affect iodine levels, with higher concentrations typically observed in winter due to different feeding practices. The iodine content of cow milk falls between 147 to 605 µg/kg and the highest value of 11100 µg/L was recorded in camel milk. Milk could supply up to 60% of the daily dietary requirement of iodine for an adult person. To fight iodine deficiency through the appropriate approach to such concerns, one must have an in-depth understanding of these issues. This review paper aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of these factors and their implications for human and public health strategies. Bangladesh Journal of Animal Science 53 (1): 1-12, 2024

Casein, whey protein and non-protein nitrogen content of milk to identify water, sugar and flour adulterated milk

This study was aimed to assess the potential of using milk's nitrogen distribution pattern, specifically casein, whey protein, and non-protein nitrogen content, as a method for detecting milk adulteration with water, sugar, and flour. Whole milk samples were collected from the Bangladesh Agricultural University Dairy Farm, BAU, Mymensingh, and subjected to adulterations, including 15%, 20%, and 25% water additions and subsequent sugar or flour adjustments to match the fresh milk's specific gravity. The samples were analyzed for specific gravity, fat content, and nitrogen distribution. Results indicated that while specific gravity remained consistent across samples adulterated with sugar or flour, it varied significantly (P<0.05) in those diluted with water. Fat content was significantly (P<0.05) reduced in samples adulterated with water and sugar, particularly at the 25% water addition level. Though total protein, true protein, and casein contents were significantly lower (P<0.05) in the 25% water-added milk compared to fresh milk, they were not significantly different (P>0.05) across the other adulterated samples when compared to fresh milk. Whey protein and non-protein nitrogen levels were statistically consistent (P>0.05) across all the samples. The results indicate that the nitrogen distribution pattern, in its current state, cannot be used to detect milk adulteration effectively. Further research with a larger dataset considering various factors affecting nitrogen distribution in milk is recommended for conclusive results. Bangladesh Journal of Animal Science 53 (1): 23-30, 2024

Reflections on a chromic oxide paper 44 years later: most cited paper in 99-year history of the Canadian Journal of Animal Science

This article gives the background that led to publication of the paper “An improved procedure for the determination of chromic oxide in feed and feces”, Can. J. Anim. Sci. 59: 631–634 (Sept. 1979) .

SMART LIVESTOCK FOR SCIENCE…12 months later

The fourth issue of Slovak Journal of Animal Science 2023 gives to me the opportunity to overview our scientific publishing activity after the first 12 months together. Along four issues, our Journal has been faced with many different aspects of animal farm production, among them mainly circular economy strategy, non-conventional feed resources, and community-based livestock programs. All these different aspects have a common point: boost and develop the livestock farming system, in terms of competitiveness and profitability. Looking at the different articles collected and published during this year, the incorporation of locally available novel feed resource alternatives can promote circular economy concepts, increase food security, and improve sustainable livestock production. By exploiting locally accessible resources, the inclusion of these materials in animal feed nutrition has significant potential to enhance livestock performance, lower production costs, and promote bioeconomy concepts.
 On the other hand, analysis of genomic data is an important resource for the effective management of small and endangered animal populations. The research activity of scientists has deeply been focused on developing breeding programs able to conserve animal biodiversity and monitor animal biodynamics.
 
 In the last Editorial article of 2023, I am going to introduce the contents of the articles collected and published in the fourth issue of 2023 year.
 Formelova et al. performed a study to evaluate the effect of dried hempseed cake (by-product of oil production) supplementation (5% - EG1 and 10% - EG2) to rabbit feed mixture on livestock performances, quality of meat, digestibility of nutrients and animal health status. All obtained data let Authors to recommend the inclusion of hempseed cake up to 10% in rabbit diet without any negative effect on animal welfare, livestock performance and quality of meat.
 Osaiyuwu et al. organized a study to provide useful information for the creation of sustainable breeding programmes and developing a sustainable use and conservation strategy aimed at developing highly producing Muscovy ducks in Nigeria; consequently, increasing the food security index of the nation and source of income for small-scale farmers. In general, the ducks from all seven ecogeographic locations were rather homogeneous than heterogeneous.
 Mekonnen et al., had the prime objective to survey and characterize the husbandry practices of the different indigenous sheep populations. Authors concluded the study claiming a need of feed development, shift to modern husbandry practices, access to veterinary services, indigenous sheep conservation through utilization, control of inbreeding, ram-to-ewe ratio, fattening and castration should be of future attention of farmers and stakeholders.
 Ajayi et al., to justify the use of duckweed as an alternative and novel aquatic-derived fodder in ruminants' feeding strategies, performed preliminary investigation via in vitro gas production technique. The study assessed the nutrient and mineral potential, secondary metabolites and in vitro gas production characteristics of duckweed to estimate the short-chain volatile fatty acids, metabolizable energy, organic matter digestibility and apparent in vitro dry matter degradability. In conclusion, duckweed from earthen fish ponds is fairly degradable in vitro, and the nutrient contents elucidate its forage value for ruminants.
 Editorial Team looks forward to evaluating your submitted contributions and providing all necessary support to Authors in order to best serve animal science and the scientific community, with commitment to research integrity and the highest publishing ethics. Enjoy the reading!

Neuroanatomy of lumbosacral and pudendal plexus in pigeon of Bangladesh

The present study aims to reveal the neuroanatomy of the lumbosacral and pudendal plexus in pigeons of Bangladesh. Six adult male domesticated pigeons were used in this study. The body cavities of the pigeons were opened after the administration of the anesthetics. The nerve roots of the plexus were dissected separately and photographed. We found that the lumbosacral plexus consisted of the lumbar plexus and the sacral plexus. The lumbar plexus was formed by the union of the ventral branches of the first, second, and third lumbar (L1-L3) spinal nerves. The lumbar plexus was branched into cutaneous femoris nerve, coxalis cranialis nerve, femoralis nerve, saphenous nerve, and obturatorius nerve. The sacral plexus was formed by the union of the ventral branches of the fourth lumbar and first, second, third, and fourth sacro-coccygeal spinal nerves. The sacral plexus gives off a large sciatic nerve and innervated as tibial and fibular nerve into musculature of the hind limb of the pigeon. The pudendal plexus was organized from the fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh sacro-coccygeal spinal nerves and were innervated into the tail region of the domesticated pigeons. This study was the first investigation of lumbosacral and pudendal plexus in domesticated pigeons and the results may serve as a basis for further investigation in other species. Bangladesh Journal of Animal Science 52 (4): 98-104

Effect of diluters on frozen semen production of Black Bengal Goat

The present study was undertaken to investigate the efficacy of three diluters (Triladyl, Andromed and Tris) for the production of frozen semen in Black Bengal goat and their effect on conception rate. Over the course of 6 months, data from six bucks were collected. Each collected sample was diluted with Triladyl, Andromed and Tris diluter, filled into 0.50 ml straws, sealed and equilibrated at 5℃ for freezing. The motility, viability and morphology were evaluated after dilution and in every step of cryopreservation (after equilibration, after freezing and after thawing). It became clear that motility and sperm viability of the frozen thawed semen differed significantly (p<0.05) but differed insignificantly (p>0.05) immediate after dilution among the diluters. The motility of frozen thawed semen was 42.50%±1.71, 34.67%±1.67 and 28.71%±1.55 in Triladyl, Andromed and Tris diluter, respectively. The viability of frozen thawed semen was 40.51%±1.78, 32.24%±1.52 and 26.84%±1.56 in Triladyl, Andromed and Tris diluter, respectively. In case of morphology, it differed insignificantly (p>0.05) among the diluters in every step of cryopreservation. Higher percentage of normal spermatozoa was found in Triladyl based diluter (87.11%) in frozen thawed semen. After 15 days of sample preparation, the motility of prepared sample was again checked to ensure the quality of frozen semen in liquid nitrogen (LN). It differed insignificantly (p>0.05) with frozen thawed semen after 24 hours of production. The obtained conception rate was 38% for Triladyl, 35% for Andromed and 27% for Tris diluter. The results of the study revealed that cryopreservation of buck semen revealed good results with Triladyl diluter followed by Andromed and Tris diluter. Bangladesh Journal of Animal Science 52 (4): 105-113

Effect of diluters on frozen semen production of Black Bengal Goat

The present study was undertaken to investigate the efficacy of three diluters (Triladyl, Andromed and Tris) for the production of frozen semen in Black Bengal goat and their effect on conception rate. Over the course of 6 months, data from six bucks were collected. Each collected sample was diluted with Triladyl, Andromed and Tris diluter, filled into 0.50 ml straws, sealed and equilibrated at 5℃ for freezing. The motility, viability and morphology were evaluated after dilution and in every step of cryopreservation (after equilibration, after freezing and after thawing). It became clear that motility and sperm viability of the frozen thawed semen differed significantly (p<0.05) but differed insignificantly (p>0.05) immediate after dilution among the diluters. The motility of frozen thawed semen was 42.50%±1.71, 34.67%±1.67 and 28.71%±1.55 in Triladyl, Andromed and Tris diluter, respectively. The viability of frozen thawed semen was 40.51%±1.78, 32.24%±1.52 and 26.84%±1.56 in Triladyl, Andromed and Tris diluter, respectively. In case of morphology, it differed insignificantly (p>0.05) among the diluters in every step of cryopreservation. Higher percentage of normal spermatozoa was found in Triladyl based diluter (87.11%) in frozen thawed semen. After 15 days of sample preparation, the motility of prepared sample was again checked to ensure the quality of frozen semen in liquid nitrogen (LN). It differed insignificantly (p>0.05) with frozen thawed semen after 24 hours of production. The obtained conception rate was 38% for Triladyl, 35% for Andromed and 27% for Tris diluter. The results of the study revealed that cryopreservation of buck semen revealed good results with Triladyl diluter followed by Andromed and Tris diluter. Bangladesh Journal of Animal Science 52 (4): 105-113

Neuroanatomy of lumbosacral and pudendal plexus in pigeon of Bangladesh

The present study aims to reveal the neuroanatomy of the lumbosacral and pudendal plexus in pigeons of Bangladesh. Six adult male domesticated pigeons were used in this study. The body cavities of the pigeons were opened after the administration of the anesthetics. The nerve roots of the plexus were dissected separately and photographed. We found that the lumbosacral plexus consisted of the lumbar plexus and the sacral plexus. The lumbar plexus was formed by the union of the ventral branches of the first, second, and third lumbar (L1-L3) spinal nerves. The lumbar plexus was branched into cutaneous femoris nerve, coxalis cranialis nerve, femoralis nerve, saphenous nerve, and obturatorius nerve. The sacral plexus was formed by the union of the ventral branches of the fourth lumbar and first, second, third, and fourth sacro-coccygeal spinal nerves. The sacral plexus gives off a large sciatic nerve and innervated as tibial and fibular nerve into musculature of the hind limb of the pigeon. The pudendal plexus was organized from the fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh sacro-coccygeal spinal nerves and were innervated into the tail region of the domesticated pigeons. This study was the first investigation of lumbosacral and pudendal plexus in domesticated pigeons and the results may serve as a basis for further investigation in other species. Bangladesh Journal of Animal Science 52 (4): 98-104

Effect of age on follicular dynamics of goat ovaries

Reproductive aging is influenced by a gradual decline in both the quantity and quality of oocytes found within ovarian follicles. In mammals, fertility relies heavily on the health of oocyte reserves, the dynamics of follicular development, and the functioning of the ovaries. This study aimed to investigate the impact of age on the follicular dynamics of goat ovaries. A total of 40 ovaries of Black Bengal goats were obtained from a local slaughterhouse and sorted into four age groups: 6-12 months, 13-15 months, 18-21 months, and 22-24 months. Subsequently, the ovaries were treated, and follicles were assessed through visually and histologically. The findings revealed that nearly all parameters, including weight, length, and width, of both ovaries in the 18-21 months age group were insignificantly different (p>0.05) from the other age groups. Histologically, the number of normal primordial and primary follicles was also insignificantly higher (p>0.05) in goats aged 18-21 months compared to the other age groups. Conversely, the quantity of secondary follicles significantly increased (p<0.05) with age, but in terms of antral follicles, a quadratic trend was observed, where they increased up to a certain age and then declined. Additionally, the results showed that the number of degenerated primary and antral follicles was significantly higher (p<0.05) in the ovaries of 22–24-month-old goats, while the number of degenerated secondary follicles was insignificantly higher (p>0.05) compared to the remaining age groups. In conclusion, age had an effect on the follicular dynamics of goat ovaries, suggesting that ovaries from goats aged 18-21 months, sourced from slaughterhouses, hold potential for quality follicles and oocytes that can be valuable for further research. Bangladesh Journal of Animal Science 52 (4): 88-97

Effect of age on follicular dynamics of goat ovaries

Reproductive aging is influenced by a gradual decline in both the quantity and quality of oocytes found within ovarian follicles. In mammals, fertility relies heavily on the health of oocyte reserves, the dynamics of follicular development, and the functioning of the ovaries. This study aimed to investigate the impact of age on the follicular dynamics of goat ovaries. A total of 40 ovaries of Black Bengal goats were obtained from a local slaughterhouse and sorted into four age groups: 6-12 months, 13-15 months, 18-21 months, and 22-24 months. Subsequently, the ovaries were treated, and follicles were assessed through visually and histologically. The findings revealed that nearly all parameters, including weight, length, and width, of both ovaries in the 18-21 months age group were insignificantly different (p>0.05) from the other age groups. Histologically, the number of normal primordial and primary follicles was also insignificantly higher (p>0.05) in goats aged 18-21 months compared to the other age groups. Conversely, the quantity of secondary follicles significantly increased (p<0.05) with age, but in terms of antral follicles, a quadratic trend was observed, where they increased up to a certain age and then declined. Additionally, the results showed that the number of degenerated primary and antral follicles was significantly higher (p<0.05) in the ovaries of 22–24-month-old goats, while the number of degenerated secondary follicles was insignificantly higher (p>0.05) compared to the remaining age groups. In conclusion, age had an effect on the follicular dynamics of goat ovaries, suggesting that ovaries from goats aged 18-21 months, sourced from slaughterhouses, hold potential for quality follicles and oocytes that can be valuable for further research. Bangladesh Journal of Animal Science 52 (4): 88-97

Bibliometric Analyzes of Some Major Effect Genes Associated with Meat Yield Traits in Livestock

Bibliometric analysis is commonly used to guide decisions regarding research funding and the creation of research policies and offers scientists helpful information about research trends, patterns, and impact. Thus, researchers can track collaborators in this subject and find prospective scientific alliances. Additionally, researchers can develop new research themes by constantly monitoring the most recent trend study topics in this area. Therefore, we performed the comprehensive bibliometric analysis of 4085 documents scanned in the Web of Science (WoS) database in some major effect genes associated with meat yield traits in livestock between 1981 and 2023. The analysis shows that interest in this topic has lately grown. The fact that numerous scholars participated in the investigations, which major research groups conducted, demonstrates the growth of this field's collaborative working culture. The publication of studies in this field in high-impact journals such as Meat Science, Journal of Animal Science and Animal Genetics reveals the scientific impact of this field. Keywords used in studies in this field are generally related to investigating the genetic factors affecting livestock's growth, muscle development and meat quality characteristics. In country-based studies, China and the United States have the most studies in this field. The citation records of articles reveal the significant impact of this field in literature. The scientific community has recently been particularly interested in investigating some major effect genes associated with meat yield traits in livestock.