Farhad Mirzaei | NATIONAL ANIMAL SCIENCE RESEARCH INSTITUTE (original) (raw)

Papers by Farhad Mirzaei

Pastoralism is a type of animal production characterised by the use of spontaneous food resources... more Pastoralism is a type of animal production characterised by the use of spontaneous food resources. Since 50 years, the dominant paradigm of agriculture has been based on specialisation and intensification of production systems by maximising the issue of production factors including higher yields, higher inputs, higher dependence on food industry. Its positive effect is increased food safety and its negative effect is environmental impacts and decreasing number of farmers. Five principles of agroecology for livesock are as follows: (i) the integrated management of animal health, (ii) the reduction of inputs by using ecological processes, (iii) the reduction of pollutions by controlling the biological cycles, (iv) the use of diversity in production systems to increase their resilience and (v) the preservation of biodiversity (pastures, landscapes, and local populations) by adapting practices. To define agroecological characteristics for goat keeping in Iran the following items should ...

According to the FAO, the lack of drugs to treat diseases and infections causes losses of 30 to 3... more According to the FAO, the lack of drugs to treat diseases and infections causes losses of 30 to 35% in the breeding sector of many developing countries, where poor animal health remains a major constraint to breeding. There are two principle reasons behind the changes in legislation on the use of in-feed antibiotic growth promoters. The first is to try to combat the development of microbial resistance to antibiotic drugs and the consequences on human health. The second is a response to consumer pressures to eliminate the use of all non-plant xenobiotic agents from the diets of animals, so natural resources of medicine like phyto-medicines can help smallholders in rural areas to manage their only income resources from diseases and mortality. This review introduces five most common ethno-veterinary plants named; Asparagus racemosus willd. (Shatavari), Leptadenia reticulata (Retz.) Wight & Arn. (Jivanti), Cuminum cyminum Linn. (Jeeraka), Nigella sativa L. (Kalajaji) and Pueraria tubero...

Since the late 1980s, agriculture in Central and Eastern European Countries (CEECs) has been unde... more Since the late 1980s, agriculture in Central and Eastern European Countries (CEECs) has been under considerable adjustment pressure due to changing political, economic and institutional environments. These changes have been linked to the transition process, as well as the ongoing integration into the European Union and the world market. Reduced subsidies, increased environmental and food quality demands, as well as structural changes in the supply, processing and food retailing sector call for major structural adjustments and the improvement of farmers' managerial abilities. Though such changes always carry significant threats to farms, they also offer new opportunities for the farms' entrepreneurial engagement. Upcoming changes in the agricultural environment and their possible consequences for farm structures across Europe are thus still timely subjects. The objective of the IAMO Forum 2006 is to contribute to the success of agriculture in the CEECs, as well as their neigh...

British Poultry Science, 2018

1. This feeding trial investigated the effects of herbal feed additives on performance of broiler... more 1. This feeding trial investigated the effects of herbal feed additives on performance of broiler chickens, jejunal and caecal microbiota, jejunal morphology, and meat chemical composition and oxidative stability during refrigerated storage. 2. In a 42 days trial, 320 one-day-old broiler chickens were randomly allocated to four groups with four replicate pens each containing 20 chicks. The control group was fed maize-soybeanbased diets. The diets of the other three groups were supplemented with herbal feed additives: HRB1 with Stresomix TM (0.5 g/kg feed); HRB2 with Ayucee TM (1.0 g/kg feed); HRB3 with Salcochek Pro TM (1.0 g/kg feed). The GC/MS analysis of the feed additives showed that the major components of HRB1 were β-caryophyllene (14.4%) and menthol (9.8%); HRB2 were nhexadecanoic acid (14.22%) and β-caryophyllene (14.4%) and HRB3 were menthol (69.6%) and clavicol methyl ether (13.9%). 3. Intestinal samples were taken at 42 d to determine bacterial populations (total aerobe counts, Lactobacilli, and Escherichia coli) and perform gut morphology analysis. Meat samples were analysed for chemical composition and oxidative stability under storage. 4. The HRB1 group had improved (P<0.05) body weight gain and tended to have improved (0.05≤P<0.10) feed conversion ratio, compared to the control group. Jejunum lactic acid bacteria counts were increased (P<0.001) in groups HRB1 and HRB3, compared to the control group, whereas caecal lactic acid bacteria counts tended to increase (0.05≤ P< 0.10) in group HRB1, compared to the control group. Breast meat fat content tended to be lower (0.05≤ P< 0.10) in group HRB1. Meat oxidative stability was improved (P<0.001) and jejunum villus height, crypt depth and goblet cells numbers were increased (P<0.001) in all three herbal supplemented groups, compared to the control. 5. In conclusion, herbal feed additives may be able to improve both growth performance and antioxidant activity of broiler chickens, based on their phenolic compound content.


International Journal of Poultry Science, 2006

Egyptian Journal of Sheep and Goat Sciences, 2012

Goat population in Iran is more than 25 million with 9 different identified breeds which represen... more Goat population in Iran is more than 25 million with 9 different identified breeds which represents a very significant component of livestock production potential over the country. Although goat keeping is a multipurpose activity (milk, fiber and meat), meat is the most important product of these animals in many parts of the world, particularly in Iran, where the main purpose of goat keeping is being shifted to meat production. During the last decade, demand for meat has been increasingly grown and will continue to rise in Iran and its northern neighbored countries due to growth in their population and per capita income. Therefore the optimized management of the existing resources tends the perfecting of appropriate analysis models of production systems throughout needful information. A plenty national research works has been done to find out the performance and meat production potentials of kids from various goat types since last years. This paper, presents the results of works done on the growth performance and meat production of some Iranian Kids under intensive feeding system.

Journal of Animal and Feed Sciences, 2012

Inclusion of dried citrus pulp (DCP) at different levels: 0 (control), 10% (DCP10), 20 (DCP20), a... more Inclusion of dried citrus pulp (DCP) at different levels: 0 (control), 10% (DCP10), 20 (DCP20), and 30% (DCP30) of the total mixed ration (TMR) was evaluated by in vitro gas production (GP), and ruminal fermentation patterns, in a completely randomized design. Rumen fluid was collected before the morning meal from 8 gestating goats (Boer×Saanen, body weight 3±2.3 kg). GP was recorded at 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 h of incubation. Ruminal fermentation parameters such as 96 h partitioning factor (PF 96), in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD), metabolizable energy (ME), short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), and metabolizable energy (ME) were also estimated. Inclusion of DCP linearly increased (P<0.01) cumulative gas production at 24, 48, and 96 h after inoculation, as well as asymptotic gas production (b). Rations at 30% and 10% DCP had the highest values of gas production, whereas control and 20% DCP presented the same values (quadratic effect P<0.01). Lag phase (L) decreased linearly (P<0.

International Journal of Food Science & Technology, 2015

The aim of this study was to improve the sensory and physicochemical properties of camel's milk u... more The aim of this study was to improve the sensory and physicochemical properties of camel's milk using two essential oils (EOs), spearmint (Mentha spicata) and wild thyme (Zataria multiflora). Total bacterial counts in the flavoured milks were lower than those of the plain milk, and microbial population was the lowest in the milk containing spearmint EO during 5 days of storage. Considering the sensory evaluations, milks treated with the above EOs received higher scores compared with those of untreated milk. The highest scores were given to the milk containing spearmint EO at 0.09 mL L À1. No significant differences were observed in the mean particle sizes of the samples after 5 days of storage. The addition of EOs from camel's milk resulted in higher organoleptic properties and shelf life, and, in turn, it can improve the consumption rate of camel's milk.

Agricultural Sciences, 2012

Agricultural Sciences, 2013

240 laying birds were procured and distributed randomly into four treatments and four replicate (... more 240 laying birds were procured and distributed randomly into four treatments and four replicate (15 birds each) which was fed one of the following experimental diets containing different levels of probiotics (Biomin IMBO) for seven weeks. 1-Basel diet (control groups), 2-Basel diet + 250 g/t, 3-Basel diet + 500 g/t, 4-Basel diet + 750 g/t feed respectively. As results was revealed, feed efficiency were improved significantly throughout the production periods (p < 0.01). Supplementations of diet with probiotics at 750 g/t feed improved feed efficiency during experimental periods significantly as compared to control groups (p < 0.01). Feed intake was kept constant at the levels of 110g/day/hen throughout the experimental period. Egg production and Egg mass weight (g/hen/day) was shown an increasing trend during 2nd phase production by increasing the dietary levels of probiotics (p < 0.01). Nevertheless, egg production at 10th week remained non significant. Egg quality and quantity as well as blood cholesterol were not influenced by dietary supplementations of probiotics.

Agricultural Sciences, 2013

In present study concentration of some metals (Magnesium, Nickel and Calcium) were determined in ... more In present study concentration of some metals (Magnesium, Nickel and Calcium) were determined in soil and different parts of Avena sativa treated with poultry waste grown in the pots. Nine different treatments of poultry waste were used: 0 (control), 60, 90, 120 and 150 kg/ha applied to soil as full doses before sowing, and 60, 90, 120, and 150 applied as two equal splits, 1st before sowing and the 2nd before flower instigation. The samples of soil were obtained after mixing the poultry waste with soil in each pot before sowing. Different parts (roots, leaves, and seeds) of plants were taken after 90 days of sowing and after grain filling. Samples of soil and forages were analyzed. Mg concentrations found both in soil and plants were non-significantly affected by treatments and were lower than the requirements of ruminants in forage crops, but above requirement of forages in soil. Soil and forage Ni was affected non-significantly from the treatments of poultry waste and soil and forage Ni levels were found to be lower than the toxic level for animals and forages. Soil Ca was affected non-significantly by treatments having far lower values than the requirements of both forage species and ruminants. The study showed that soil Mg was higher and Ca was lower than the requirements of forages, but forage Mg and Ca were not fulfilling the requirements of livestock indicating the non significant effect of poultry waste on their concentrations. From the results of this study it has been anticipated that various deficiency problems in livestock may be resulted as these elements play very important role in animals' metabolic progression. Therefore, soil amendment with poultry manure along with other synthetic fertilizers for enhancing the levels of various minerals is acceptable. The soil amendment and specifically tailored mineral mixture with appropriate proportion of these elements is the dire needs for livestock consuming Avena sativa in pasture treated with poultry waste.

Agricultural Sciences, 2012

Twenty mid side wool samples of crossbred sheep were collected and their characteristics were det... more Twenty mid side wool samples of crossbred sheep were collected and their characteristics were determined. Data analyzed by SAS software and Duncan's multiple range tests was used for comparison of mean wool characteristics. Average fleece weight, yield, wool diameter, Fine fiber and staple length were: 431.59 ± 38.95 gr, 65.14%, 14.24 ± 0.67 μm, 48.67 ± 5.59, and 43.65 ± 4.15 mm respectively. Mean fleece weight was significantly affected (p < 0.05) by sex (female 259 gr and male 506.55) and age (248.25, 458.38 and 637.75 gr for 1, 2 and 3 yr old respectively). Mean wool diameter was significantly affected by sex (male 12.78 ± 0.49, female 15.33 ± 0.85 μm) and there was a significant difference (p < 0.05) between F 1 and F 2 generation 11.84 ± 0.58, 16.27 ± 0.72 μm respectively. There were effective differences among ages (12.55 ± 0.74, 14.47 ± 0.58 and 13.11 ± 0.64 μm for 1, 2 and 3 yr old respectively). Wool diameter of younger animals, males and F 1 was so fine (12.55, 12.87 and 11.84 μm respectively). Staple length of F 2 crosses was significantly longer than F 1 crosses (p < 0.05). However wool diameter of F 1 was significantly finer than F 2 , but length and down fiber percentage was less than second generation. As wild sheep shed his fiber in winter, the first filial crosses also shed their fibers from the end of winter to early spring. Shedding was seldom observed in F 2 generations. It seems likely that wool from crossbred sheep could be used for those applications for which cashmere is suitable. This study indicates that, such crossbred sheep have a superfine wool and could be used in pure or blend for textile industry.

Agricultural Sciences, 2012

Journal of Animal Science and Biotechnology, 2012

The aim of this study was to compare the quality characteristics and mineral content of the fiber... more The aim of this study was to compare the quality characteristics and mineral content of the fiber from male and female cashmere goats raised under different management systems. Male and female Raeini cashmere goats (<1.5 years of age, n = 48) were selected from flocks raised at a government breeding station or raised commercially under either rural or nomadic conditions. The staple length, cashmere fiber diameter, coefficient of variation for fiber diameter, percentage of cashmere in a fleece, percentage of guard hair in a fleece and cashmere tenacity averaged 4.6 ±0.1 cm, 18.0 ±0.1 μm, 20.9 ± 0.4%, 66.1 ± 1.5%, 33.8 ± 1.5% and 1.8 ± 0.2 gf/tex, respectively. The sulfur, copper and zinc content of the cashmere averaged 2.8 ± 0.1%, 0.00065 ± 0.00002% and 0.01276 ± 0.00025%, respectively. Rearing method significantly affected staple length, coefficient of variation of fiber diameter, cashmere tenacity and copper content. Males had a higher coefficient of variation of fiber diameter and cashmere tenacity than females (P < 0.05).

Agricultural Sciences, 2012

A survey was conducted in Southwestern, Punjab, Pakistan during two different seasons to assess t... more A survey was conducted in Southwestern, Punjab, Pakistan during two different seasons to assess the status of selenium of three different classes of grazing sheep. Blood plasma from lactating, non-lactating and male sheep were collected four times monthly in winter and summer seasons and analyzed for selenium concentration. Seasonal variations were found for plasma selenium concentration. Selenium concentration of plasma was higher in male sheep than those lactating and non lactating ewes during both the seasons as well as it were higher compared to the established critical value for blood plasma selenium for these ruminants. High incidence of deficiencies was found particularly for lactating ewes. These deficiencies in plasma selenium based on critical level were 35% to 15% for lactating, 28% to 12% for non lactating ewes and 15% to 5% for male animals during winter and summer seasons, respectively. Although some differences among the three classes of sheep were found for selenium concentrations of blood plasma, but dramatic class differences could not be concluded based on this study. It was suggested based on the results obtained, pellets, glass bolus or mixture that contain selenium, should be used for supplementation for grazing sheep in the study area to maintain the plasma Se at optimum required level for the prevention of complication in livestock caused due to deficiency of this element.

Modern Economy, 2012

The potential impact of a liberalization of global trade on developing nations is a controversial... more The potential impact of a liberalization of global trade on developing nations is a controversial subject. The liberalization of global agricultural trade, in particular, has been the focus of the debate for many years now and is part of the current WTO negotiations. Trade policies are believed to have influenced a country's comparative advantage. Comparative advantage as a concept for evaluating the patterns of trade, is widely accepted and often used in theoretical and policy discussions. Livestock and livestock products, in the global trade, account for about one sixth, by value, of all agricultural trade. Iran is the one of main producers of hen egg in the world (FAO, 2004). Higher-than-global cost prices are the main disadvantage of the Iranian hen egg industry. The industry comprises of 700 million broiler day-old chicks, 10 million broiler breeders and 50 million layer day-old chicks. Hen egg is one of the Livestock products which are part of the non-oil export in Iran and its export consistently faces with fluctuation during last years. This paper looks at the performance of hen egg export and examines the comparative advantages indices like: revealed comparative advantage (RCA), revealed symmetric comparative advantage (RSCA) and (revealed competitive advantage (RC) for Iran and world main producers over the period 1990-2005. The source of data from 1990-2005 are supplied by FAO (2006). The changes in Iran's export structure were compared with main producers ones. The results of the research showed, the trade and production policies and economic behavior of producers and exporters have been in such a way that they could not show a appropriate and timely response of world, also the revealed instabilities in the trends of RCA, RSCA and RC indices during the study period led to the conclusion that there is no well defined strategy and plan for utilization of low price production factors, effectiveness human power, knowledge of bargaining power and target markets. The objective of this paper is to try to identify: 1) The export comparative advantage of Iranian hen egg; 2) Its changing during the time; 3) The comparative advantage of Iranian hen egg in competition with other countries which are famous in trade and production of hen egg.

International Journal of Livestock Research, 2012

The current research was carried out at Rakh Khaire Wala, which is well known as one of the most ... more The current research was carried out at Rakh Khaire Wala, which is well known as one of the most developed animal husbandry in Punjab, Pakistan. This location in the arid region, where sheep farming is a common practice, was selected for this study. The aim of the study was to determine and collect data on the mineral contents of forages or feedstuffs that are harvested and used in animal nutrition in the region, in order to gain information on the deficiency and/or excess of mineral levels for ruminants grazing therein, fed mainly with these feedstuffs. These pastures were visited twice during the study, in summer and winter, to collect samples in order to determine the effect of seasonal changes on the mineral contents of forages. In each location, samples from the available forages were collected. Forage samples were analyzed in order to determine the Ca, Mg, Na, K, Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn levels using an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. These results show that pasture grasses/forages had sufficient levels of K, Ca, Mg, Mn and Zn to meet requirements of ruminant animals, but the occurrence of marginal to deficient supplies of Na, and Cu appear very likely. There is an urgent requirement for experimentation on supplementation regimes involving these minerals, so that appropriate recommendations can be formulated.

Modern Economy, 2012

Iran's dependence on oil revenues has caused severe impact of commodity price fluctuations on the... more Iran's dependence on oil revenues has caused severe impact of commodity price fluctuations on the currency revenues and any reduction in export prices has led into a deficit in the country's balance of payments. Accordingly, it was in the past years and especially the Second Development Plan that government included encouragement and reducing the country's dependence on oil revenues in its agenda. The international agricultural exports, especially exports of livestock and poultry country subdivision have a proper status due to its relative advantage. Therefore, in this study factors affecting the supply of exportable animal products are considered. For this purpose, factors affecting exports of livestock products are studied by using Cointegration Analysis based on statistical intervals in 1984-2008. Experimental results showed that the value of income per capita importer countries of Iran and the real exchange rate had a positive effect on export demand and the added value and export price index had a negative impact on exports of livestock sector.

Pastoralism is a type of animal production characterised by the use of spontaneous food resources... more Pastoralism is a type of animal production characterised by the use of spontaneous food resources. Since 50 years, the dominant paradigm of agriculture has been based on specialisation and intensification of production systems by maximising the issue of production factors including higher yields, higher inputs, higher dependence on food industry. Its positive effect is increased food safety and its negative effect is environmental impacts and decreasing number of farmers. Five principles of agroecology for livesock are as follows: (i) the integrated management of animal health, (ii) the reduction of inputs by using ecological processes, (iii) the reduction of pollutions by controlling the biological cycles, (iv) the use of diversity in production systems to increase their resilience and (v) the preservation of biodiversity (pastures, landscapes, and local populations) by adapting practices. To define agroecological characteristics for goat keeping in Iran the following items should ...

According to the FAO, the lack of drugs to treat diseases and infections causes losses of 30 to 3... more According to the FAO, the lack of drugs to treat diseases and infections causes losses of 30 to 35% in the breeding sector of many developing countries, where poor animal health remains a major constraint to breeding. There are two principle reasons behind the changes in legislation on the use of in-feed antibiotic growth promoters. The first is to try to combat the development of microbial resistance to antibiotic drugs and the consequences on human health. The second is a response to consumer pressures to eliminate the use of all non-plant xenobiotic agents from the diets of animals, so natural resources of medicine like phyto-medicines can help smallholders in rural areas to manage their only income resources from diseases and mortality. This review introduces five most common ethno-veterinary plants named; Asparagus racemosus willd. (Shatavari), Leptadenia reticulata (Retz.) Wight & Arn. (Jivanti), Cuminum cyminum Linn. (Jeeraka), Nigella sativa L. (Kalajaji) and Pueraria tubero...

Since the late 1980s, agriculture in Central and Eastern European Countries (CEECs) has been unde... more Since the late 1980s, agriculture in Central and Eastern European Countries (CEECs) has been under considerable adjustment pressure due to changing political, economic and institutional environments. These changes have been linked to the transition process, as well as the ongoing integration into the European Union and the world market. Reduced subsidies, increased environmental and food quality demands, as well as structural changes in the supply, processing and food retailing sector call for major structural adjustments and the improvement of farmers' managerial abilities. Though such changes always carry significant threats to farms, they also offer new opportunities for the farms' entrepreneurial engagement. Upcoming changes in the agricultural environment and their possible consequences for farm structures across Europe are thus still timely subjects. The objective of the IAMO Forum 2006 is to contribute to the success of agriculture in the CEECs, as well as their neigh...

British Poultry Science, 2018

1. This feeding trial investigated the effects of herbal feed additives on performance of broiler... more 1. This feeding trial investigated the effects of herbal feed additives on performance of broiler chickens, jejunal and caecal microbiota, jejunal morphology, and meat chemical composition and oxidative stability during refrigerated storage. 2. In a 42 days trial, 320 one-day-old broiler chickens were randomly allocated to four groups with four replicate pens each containing 20 chicks. The control group was fed maize-soybeanbased diets. The diets of the other three groups were supplemented with herbal feed additives: HRB1 with Stresomix TM (0.5 g/kg feed); HRB2 with Ayucee TM (1.0 g/kg feed); HRB3 with Salcochek Pro TM (1.0 g/kg feed). The GC/MS analysis of the feed additives showed that the major components of HRB1 were β-caryophyllene (14.4%) and menthol (9.8%); HRB2 were nhexadecanoic acid (14.22%) and β-caryophyllene (14.4%) and HRB3 were menthol (69.6%) and clavicol methyl ether (13.9%). 3. Intestinal samples were taken at 42 d to determine bacterial populations (total aerobe counts, Lactobacilli, and Escherichia coli) and perform gut morphology analysis. Meat samples were analysed for chemical composition and oxidative stability under storage. 4. The HRB1 group had improved (P<0.05) body weight gain and tended to have improved (0.05≤P<0.10) feed conversion ratio, compared to the control group. Jejunum lactic acid bacteria counts were increased (P<0.001) in groups HRB1 and HRB3, compared to the control group, whereas caecal lactic acid bacteria counts tended to increase (0.05≤ P< 0.10) in group HRB1, compared to the control group. Breast meat fat content tended to be lower (0.05≤ P< 0.10) in group HRB1. Meat oxidative stability was improved (P<0.001) and jejunum villus height, crypt depth and goblet cells numbers were increased (P<0.001) in all three herbal supplemented groups, compared to the control. 5. In conclusion, herbal feed additives may be able to improve both growth performance and antioxidant activity of broiler chickens, based on their phenolic compound content.


International Journal of Poultry Science, 2006

Egyptian Journal of Sheep and Goat Sciences, 2012

Goat population in Iran is more than 25 million with 9 different identified breeds which represen... more Goat population in Iran is more than 25 million with 9 different identified breeds which represents a very significant component of livestock production potential over the country. Although goat keeping is a multipurpose activity (milk, fiber and meat), meat is the most important product of these animals in many parts of the world, particularly in Iran, where the main purpose of goat keeping is being shifted to meat production. During the last decade, demand for meat has been increasingly grown and will continue to rise in Iran and its northern neighbored countries due to growth in their population and per capita income. Therefore the optimized management of the existing resources tends the perfecting of appropriate analysis models of production systems throughout needful information. A plenty national research works has been done to find out the performance and meat production potentials of kids from various goat types since last years. This paper, presents the results of works done on the growth performance and meat production of some Iranian Kids under intensive feeding system.

Journal of Animal and Feed Sciences, 2012

Inclusion of dried citrus pulp (DCP) at different levels: 0 (control), 10% (DCP10), 20 (DCP20), a... more Inclusion of dried citrus pulp (DCP) at different levels: 0 (control), 10% (DCP10), 20 (DCP20), and 30% (DCP30) of the total mixed ration (TMR) was evaluated by in vitro gas production (GP), and ruminal fermentation patterns, in a completely randomized design. Rumen fluid was collected before the morning meal from 8 gestating goats (Boer×Saanen, body weight 3±2.3 kg). GP was recorded at 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 h of incubation. Ruminal fermentation parameters such as 96 h partitioning factor (PF 96), in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD), metabolizable energy (ME), short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), and metabolizable energy (ME) were also estimated. Inclusion of DCP linearly increased (P<0.01) cumulative gas production at 24, 48, and 96 h after inoculation, as well as asymptotic gas production (b). Rations at 30% and 10% DCP had the highest values of gas production, whereas control and 20% DCP presented the same values (quadratic effect P<0.01). Lag phase (L) decreased linearly (P<0.

International Journal of Food Science & Technology, 2015

The aim of this study was to improve the sensory and physicochemical properties of camel's milk u... more The aim of this study was to improve the sensory and physicochemical properties of camel's milk using two essential oils (EOs), spearmint (Mentha spicata) and wild thyme (Zataria multiflora). Total bacterial counts in the flavoured milks were lower than those of the plain milk, and microbial population was the lowest in the milk containing spearmint EO during 5 days of storage. Considering the sensory evaluations, milks treated with the above EOs received higher scores compared with those of untreated milk. The highest scores were given to the milk containing spearmint EO at 0.09 mL L À1. No significant differences were observed in the mean particle sizes of the samples after 5 days of storage. The addition of EOs from camel's milk resulted in higher organoleptic properties and shelf life, and, in turn, it can improve the consumption rate of camel's milk.

Agricultural Sciences, 2012

Agricultural Sciences, 2013

240 laying birds were procured and distributed randomly into four treatments and four replicate (... more 240 laying birds were procured and distributed randomly into four treatments and four replicate (15 birds each) which was fed one of the following experimental diets containing different levels of probiotics (Biomin IMBO) for seven weeks. 1-Basel diet (control groups), 2-Basel diet + 250 g/t, 3-Basel diet + 500 g/t, 4-Basel diet + 750 g/t feed respectively. As results was revealed, feed efficiency were improved significantly throughout the production periods (p < 0.01). Supplementations of diet with probiotics at 750 g/t feed improved feed efficiency during experimental periods significantly as compared to control groups (p < 0.01). Feed intake was kept constant at the levels of 110g/day/hen throughout the experimental period. Egg production and Egg mass weight (g/hen/day) was shown an increasing trend during 2nd phase production by increasing the dietary levels of probiotics (p < 0.01). Nevertheless, egg production at 10th week remained non significant. Egg quality and quantity as well as blood cholesterol were not influenced by dietary supplementations of probiotics.

Agricultural Sciences, 2013

In present study concentration of some metals (Magnesium, Nickel and Calcium) were determined in ... more In present study concentration of some metals (Magnesium, Nickel and Calcium) were determined in soil and different parts of Avena sativa treated with poultry waste grown in the pots. Nine different treatments of poultry waste were used: 0 (control), 60, 90, 120 and 150 kg/ha applied to soil as full doses before sowing, and 60, 90, 120, and 150 applied as two equal splits, 1st before sowing and the 2nd before flower instigation. The samples of soil were obtained after mixing the poultry waste with soil in each pot before sowing. Different parts (roots, leaves, and seeds) of plants were taken after 90 days of sowing and after grain filling. Samples of soil and forages were analyzed. Mg concentrations found both in soil and plants were non-significantly affected by treatments and were lower than the requirements of ruminants in forage crops, but above requirement of forages in soil. Soil and forage Ni was affected non-significantly from the treatments of poultry waste and soil and forage Ni levels were found to be lower than the toxic level for animals and forages. Soil Ca was affected non-significantly by treatments having far lower values than the requirements of both forage species and ruminants. The study showed that soil Mg was higher and Ca was lower than the requirements of forages, but forage Mg and Ca were not fulfilling the requirements of livestock indicating the non significant effect of poultry waste on their concentrations. From the results of this study it has been anticipated that various deficiency problems in livestock may be resulted as these elements play very important role in animals' metabolic progression. Therefore, soil amendment with poultry manure along with other synthetic fertilizers for enhancing the levels of various minerals is acceptable. The soil amendment and specifically tailored mineral mixture with appropriate proportion of these elements is the dire needs for livestock consuming Avena sativa in pasture treated with poultry waste.

Agricultural Sciences, 2012

Twenty mid side wool samples of crossbred sheep were collected and their characteristics were det... more Twenty mid side wool samples of crossbred sheep were collected and their characteristics were determined. Data analyzed by SAS software and Duncan's multiple range tests was used for comparison of mean wool characteristics. Average fleece weight, yield, wool diameter, Fine fiber and staple length were: 431.59 ± 38.95 gr, 65.14%, 14.24 ± 0.67 μm, 48.67 ± 5.59, and 43.65 ± 4.15 mm respectively. Mean fleece weight was significantly affected (p < 0.05) by sex (female 259 gr and male 506.55) and age (248.25, 458.38 and 637.75 gr for 1, 2 and 3 yr old respectively). Mean wool diameter was significantly affected by sex (male 12.78 ± 0.49, female 15.33 ± 0.85 μm) and there was a significant difference (p < 0.05) between F 1 and F 2 generation 11.84 ± 0.58, 16.27 ± 0.72 μm respectively. There were effective differences among ages (12.55 ± 0.74, 14.47 ± 0.58 and 13.11 ± 0.64 μm for 1, 2 and 3 yr old respectively). Wool diameter of younger animals, males and F 1 was so fine (12.55, 12.87 and 11.84 μm respectively). Staple length of F 2 crosses was significantly longer than F 1 crosses (p < 0.05). However wool diameter of F 1 was significantly finer than F 2 , but length and down fiber percentage was less than second generation. As wild sheep shed his fiber in winter, the first filial crosses also shed their fibers from the end of winter to early spring. Shedding was seldom observed in F 2 generations. It seems likely that wool from crossbred sheep could be used for those applications for which cashmere is suitable. This study indicates that, such crossbred sheep have a superfine wool and could be used in pure or blend for textile industry.

Agricultural Sciences, 2012

Journal of Animal Science and Biotechnology, 2012

The aim of this study was to compare the quality characteristics and mineral content of the fiber... more The aim of this study was to compare the quality characteristics and mineral content of the fiber from male and female cashmere goats raised under different management systems. Male and female Raeini cashmere goats (<1.5 years of age, n = 48) were selected from flocks raised at a government breeding station or raised commercially under either rural or nomadic conditions. The staple length, cashmere fiber diameter, coefficient of variation for fiber diameter, percentage of cashmere in a fleece, percentage of guard hair in a fleece and cashmere tenacity averaged 4.6 ±0.1 cm, 18.0 ±0.1 μm, 20.9 ± 0.4%, 66.1 ± 1.5%, 33.8 ± 1.5% and 1.8 ± 0.2 gf/tex, respectively. The sulfur, copper and zinc content of the cashmere averaged 2.8 ± 0.1%, 0.00065 ± 0.00002% and 0.01276 ± 0.00025%, respectively. Rearing method significantly affected staple length, coefficient of variation of fiber diameter, cashmere tenacity and copper content. Males had a higher coefficient of variation of fiber diameter and cashmere tenacity than females (P < 0.05).

Agricultural Sciences, 2012

A survey was conducted in Southwestern, Punjab, Pakistan during two different seasons to assess t... more A survey was conducted in Southwestern, Punjab, Pakistan during two different seasons to assess the status of selenium of three different classes of grazing sheep. Blood plasma from lactating, non-lactating and male sheep were collected four times monthly in winter and summer seasons and analyzed for selenium concentration. Seasonal variations were found for plasma selenium concentration. Selenium concentration of plasma was higher in male sheep than those lactating and non lactating ewes during both the seasons as well as it were higher compared to the established critical value for blood plasma selenium for these ruminants. High incidence of deficiencies was found particularly for lactating ewes. These deficiencies in plasma selenium based on critical level were 35% to 15% for lactating, 28% to 12% for non lactating ewes and 15% to 5% for male animals during winter and summer seasons, respectively. Although some differences among the three classes of sheep were found for selenium concentrations of blood plasma, but dramatic class differences could not be concluded based on this study. It was suggested based on the results obtained, pellets, glass bolus or mixture that contain selenium, should be used for supplementation for grazing sheep in the study area to maintain the plasma Se at optimum required level for the prevention of complication in livestock caused due to deficiency of this element.

Modern Economy, 2012

The potential impact of a liberalization of global trade on developing nations is a controversial... more The potential impact of a liberalization of global trade on developing nations is a controversial subject. The liberalization of global agricultural trade, in particular, has been the focus of the debate for many years now and is part of the current WTO negotiations. Trade policies are believed to have influenced a country's comparative advantage. Comparative advantage as a concept for evaluating the patterns of trade, is widely accepted and often used in theoretical and policy discussions. Livestock and livestock products, in the global trade, account for about one sixth, by value, of all agricultural trade. Iran is the one of main producers of hen egg in the world (FAO, 2004). Higher-than-global cost prices are the main disadvantage of the Iranian hen egg industry. The industry comprises of 700 million broiler day-old chicks, 10 million broiler breeders and 50 million layer day-old chicks. Hen egg is one of the Livestock products which are part of the non-oil export in Iran and its export consistently faces with fluctuation during last years. This paper looks at the performance of hen egg export and examines the comparative advantages indices like: revealed comparative advantage (RCA), revealed symmetric comparative advantage (RSCA) and (revealed competitive advantage (RC) for Iran and world main producers over the period 1990-2005. The source of data from 1990-2005 are supplied by FAO (2006). The changes in Iran's export structure were compared with main producers ones. The results of the research showed, the trade and production policies and economic behavior of producers and exporters have been in such a way that they could not show a appropriate and timely response of world, also the revealed instabilities in the trends of RCA, RSCA and RC indices during the study period led to the conclusion that there is no well defined strategy and plan for utilization of low price production factors, effectiveness human power, knowledge of bargaining power and target markets. The objective of this paper is to try to identify: 1) The export comparative advantage of Iranian hen egg; 2) Its changing during the time; 3) The comparative advantage of Iranian hen egg in competition with other countries which are famous in trade and production of hen egg.

International Journal of Livestock Research, 2012

The current research was carried out at Rakh Khaire Wala, which is well known as one of the most ... more The current research was carried out at Rakh Khaire Wala, which is well known as one of the most developed animal husbandry in Punjab, Pakistan. This location in the arid region, where sheep farming is a common practice, was selected for this study. The aim of the study was to determine and collect data on the mineral contents of forages or feedstuffs that are harvested and used in animal nutrition in the region, in order to gain information on the deficiency and/or excess of mineral levels for ruminants grazing therein, fed mainly with these feedstuffs. These pastures were visited twice during the study, in summer and winter, to collect samples in order to determine the effect of seasonal changes on the mineral contents of forages. In each location, samples from the available forages were collected. Forage samples were analyzed in order to determine the Ca, Mg, Na, K, Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn levels using an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. These results show that pasture grasses/forages had sufficient levels of K, Ca, Mg, Mn and Zn to meet requirements of ruminant animals, but the occurrence of marginal to deficient supplies of Na, and Cu appear very likely. There is an urgent requirement for experimentation on supplementation regimes involving these minerals, so that appropriate recommendations can be formulated.

Modern Economy, 2012

Iran's dependence on oil revenues has caused severe impact of commodity price fluctuations on the... more Iran's dependence on oil revenues has caused severe impact of commodity price fluctuations on the currency revenues and any reduction in export prices has led into a deficit in the country's balance of payments. Accordingly, it was in the past years and especially the Second Development Plan that government included encouragement and reducing the country's dependence on oil revenues in its agenda. The international agricultural exports, especially exports of livestock and poultry country subdivision have a proper status due to its relative advantage. Therefore, in this study factors affecting the supply of exportable animal products are considered. For this purpose, factors affecting exports of livestock products are studied by using Cointegration Analysis based on statistical intervals in 1984-2008. Experimental results showed that the value of income per capita importer countries of Iran and the real exchange rate had a positive effect on export demand and the added value and export price index had a negative impact on exports of livestock sector.