Journal of Natural Science Review

Standardizing Recipe for Mint Flavored Grape Nectar

2026-03-31T16:18:59+00:00

This study, entitled “Standardizing Recipe for Mint-Flavored Grape Nectar”, was conducted in the Horticulture Department Laboratory, Faculty of Agriculture, Kabul University, Afghanistan, during 2024–2025 to evaluate the effect of mint flavor on the physicochemical properties, sensory attributes, and storage stability of grape nectar. (2) Methods: The experiment comprised eight treatments prepared from 50% sugar syrup and 50% natural ingredients, consisting of 93–100% grape pulp combined with 1–7% mint leaf extract. Each treatment was replicated three times and arranged in a split-plot CRD design. Parameters assessed included biological characteristics (juice spoilage), chemical properties (TSS, titratable acidity, pH, reducing sugar, non-reducing sugar, and total sugar), and sensory evaluation parameters (Appearance, Aroma, Flavor, color, Mouthfeel, and Overall Acceptability) Additionally, the benefit–cost ratio (BCR) for the most effective formulation was determined to assess economic feasibility. (3) Results: Results demonstrated that during the three-month storage period, biochemical changes occurred in the nectar. With increasing storage duration, TSS, acidity, reducing sugar, and total sugar values increased, while non-reducing sugar, pH, and sensory scores gradually decreased. Among all treatments, T4 (98% grape juice + 3% mint leaf extract) exhibited the least changes in chemical properties, suggesting better storage stability. However, based on sensory evaluation, T3 (98% grape juice + 2% mint leaf extract) was rated the most favorable formulation by panelists, reflecting higher consumer acceptance. (4) Conclusions: The findings indicate that treatment T3 is the most suitable for producing high-quality mint-flavored grape nectar. It achieved superior sensory quality and consumer preference, along with a benefit–cost ratio of 1:1.57 AFN, emphasizing its potential for large-scale commercial production.

Effect of Different Levels Salicylic Acid, Humic Acid, and Complete Fertilizer on the Yield of Saffron

2026-03-31T16:21:01+00:00

Foliar application of salicylic acid, humic acid, and complete fertilizers was evaluated for their effects on flower and corm yield of saffron (Crocus sativa L.) in a three-year field experiment conducted during 2020–2021. Although nutrient management and plant growth regulators are known to influence saffron productivity, limited field-based evidence exists regarding their combined effects under local agro-ecological conditions. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the individual and interactive effects of salicylic acid, humic acid, and different fertilizer sources on saffron flower yield and corm production. The experiment was arranged in a factorial design within a randomized complete block design with three replications. Treatments included three levels of salicylic acid and five fertilizer regimes: control, Saffron Magic liquid fertilizer, complete fertilizer (20–20–20), humic acid + Saffron Magic, and complete fertilizer (20–20–20) + humic acid. Foliar sprays were applied at two growth stages. Results showed that salicylic acid had no significant effect on flower yield, stigma dry weight, stigma length, corm length, or total corm weight. Fertilizer treatments significantly affected flower number, with the highest value (54.76 flowers per square meter) recorded under simple fertilizer application. The interaction between salicylic acid and fertilizer was not significant for most traits. However, total corm weight increased in Saffron Magic, complete fertilizer (20–20–20), and Saffron Magic + humic acid treatments compared with the control. These findings emphasize the importance of optimized foliar fertilization strategies to improve saffron productivity and nutrient management efficiency.

Influence of Black Cumin and Coriander Seed Powders on Growth Performance, Feed Efficiency, and Economic Evaluation of Broiler Chickens

2026-03-31T16:21:29+00:00

This study evaluated the effects of black cumin (Nigella sativa L.) and coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) seed powders as natural growth-promoting feed additives on Ross 308 broiler chickens. The experiment was conducted using a CRD design with four treatments and three replications, from August 12 to November 17, 2022, at a local farm in Sharana, Paktika Province, Afghanistan. Parameters measured included feed intake, live body weight, weight gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and economic value. The results showed that supplementation with black cumin and coriander seed powder significantly improved broiler performance. Feed intake, live body weight, and weight gain increased, while FCR decreased. Economically, significant differences were observed among treatments, with Treatments 2 and 4 performing the best. T4 (2% black cumin + 2% coriander) achieved the highest feed intake (1019 g), live body weight (1641.8 g), weight gain (544.4 g), lowest FCR (1.87), and highest benefit–cost ratio (BCR =1.12 AFN). LSD analysis revealed no significant difference between T2 and T4. However, T4 was considered optimal as it not only enhanced performance but also improved the nutritional quality of broiler meat and yielded a high economic return. Based on these findings, T4 is recommended as the most effective dietary supplementation strategy. Future studies are suggested to explore the effects of higher inclusion levels of black cumin and coriander seed powder on other broiler breeds over varying durations.

Hydrogeochemical Assessment of Arsenic and Physicochemical Contaminations in Groundwater Wells in Kabul, Afghanistan

2026-03-31T16:20:08+00:00

Groundwater is a critical source of drinking water in semi-arid regions; however, integrated assessments of arsenic (As) contamination alongside key physicochemical parameters remain limited in the study area. Therefore, this study was conducted to measure the concentration of As, salinity, electrical conductivity (EC), temperature, pH, and total dissolved solids (TDS) in 21 wells across 4 districts of Kabul city. Groundwater samples were collected from selected sites and analyzed for As, salinity, EC, temperature, pH, and TDS, and compared with World Health Organization (WHO) drinking water guidelines to determine suitability for consumption. Arsenic concentrations exhibited pronounced spatial variability, ranging from 0 to 25 mg/L, with all detected values exceeding the World Health Organization (WHO) guideline of 0.01 mg/L by several orders of magnitude. The highest As concentration (25 mg/L) was recorded in the Areba antenna area, indicating a critical contamination hotspot. Salinity values ranged from 0 to 1.9 ppt, while EC ranged from 111 to 3630 µS/cm; 75% of sampled sites exceeded the WHO permissible limit for EC. TDS concentrations ranged from 710.4 to 2323.2 mg/L, with 79% of samples surpassing the recommended drinking water limit. Groundwater pH remained within the WHO guideline range (7.1–8.1), yet these neutral-to-alkaline conditions likely enhanced As mobilization. The combined results indicate widespread mineralization and severe As contamination, rendering much of the groundwater unsuitable for direct consumption without treatment. These findings underscore the urgent need for policy interventions, including systematic groundwater monitoring, arsenic mitigation strategies, and the provision of alternative, safe water supplies to protect local communities.

Effects of NPK and Zn Fertilizer Application on Growth and Yield Attributes of Barley

2026-03-31T16:19:54+00:00

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A Novel, Cost-Effective Post-Doping Method to Produce Nitrogen-Doped Activated Carbon from Rice Husk for CO2 Adsorption

2026-03-31T16:21:15+00:00

Nitrogen-doped activated carbon (N-doped AC) from agricultural waste offers a low-cost route to solid sorbents for post-combustion CO₂ capture. However, there are limited straightforward and scale-up methods available to produce N-doped AC with large surface area, high nitrogen content, and strong CO₂ adsorption. Thus, this study aims to synthesize rice husk derived N-doped AC, by optimizing the surface morphology and nitrogen functionality to enhance CO₂ Capture efficiency and to quantifies adsorption, correlating the gains with BET surface area and microporosity. Rice husk was carbonized via pyrrole-assisted pyrolysis at 450 for 45 min with a 90 min dwell, the carbonized rice husk was then activated chemically using a 4:1 ratio of KOH to carbonized rice husk, heated to 800 at a ramp rate of 10 per min under a flow of N₂ gas at 150 ml/min for 80 min, Subsequently, N-doping was performed by immersing the activated carbon in a urea solution with a mass ratio of 4:1:3 (urea solution to AC to KOH) at 200 for 4 hours. The obtained N-doped AC exhibits a remarkable surface area of 2986.6 m²/g and a significantly enhanced CO₂ adsorption capacity of 6.5 mmol/g under ambient conditions. Incorporating approximately 6% nitrogen into the carbon structure optimizes its porosity and structural properties. The integrated carbonization, activation, urea post-doping sequence provides a reproducible pathway to high performance, waste derived CO₂ sorbents, highlighting rice husk as a viable feedstock and underscoring the synergistic roles of micro/mesoporosity and nitrogen functionalities in boosting physisorption dominated CO₂capture.

Standardizing Recipe for Pomegranate and Apple Blended Nectar

2026-03-31T16:22:08+00:00

This study was carried out during 2024–2025 at the Laboratory of the Horticulture Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Kabul University, Afghanistan, with the objective of developing a blended pomegranate–apple nectar of acceptable quality and economic feasibility. The experiment was arranged in a split-plot Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three replications and eleven treatments representing different juice blending ratios. The study assessed chemical properties (TSS, sugars, acidity, and pH), biological stability, sensory attributes, and economic performance of the nectar during storage. The results indicated that increasing storage duration led to a gradual rise in total soluble solids (TSS), reducing sugars, total sugars, and acidity, while pH and non-reducing sugars decreased. The application of sodium benzoate along with proper sterilization and pasteurization effectively prevented microbial spoilage throughout the storage period. Sensory evaluation demonstrated a general decline in appearance, flavor, mouthfeel, and overall acceptability with prolonged storage, with the highest scores recorded at the initial stage and the lowest after 90 days. Blends containing higher proportions of apple juice consistently showed better sensory quality. Among the treatments, T11 (100% apple juice) achieved the highest scores for appearance, color, and aroma, whereas T10 (10% pomegranate and 90% apple juice) ranked highest for flavor, mouthfeel, and overall acceptability. Economic analysis revealed that T10 generated a net return of 1.57 AFN per AFN invested. Therefore, T10 is recommended as the most suitable formulation for blended pomegranate–apple nectar production.

Production and Export Performance of Afghan Saffron over the Past Decade

2026-03-31T16:19:40+00:00

Saffron (Crocus sativus L.), widely known as “red gold,” is one of the most valuable agricultural commodities and plays a significant role in rural livelihoods, export earnings, and economic diversification in Afghanistan. The study examined the production and export performance of Afghan saffron, using secondary data on area, production, productivity, and exports from 2014–15 to 2023–24. To evaluate trends in production and exports, the Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) and Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) methods were employed. The coefficient of variation (CV) and the Cuddy–Della Valle (CDV) instability index were used to assess instability. Additionally, Markov Chain Analysis was applied to examine trade direction. The results indicated that the cultivated area, production, and export value of Afghan saffron increased significantly at annual growth rates of 29.07, 22.59, and 23.78 per cent, respectively. In contrast, productivity declined at an annual rate of -5.02 per cent, which was statistically non-significant. These findings suggest that production growth was driven primarily by quantitative expansion, with no significant improvement in production efficiency. The highest fluctuation was observed in productivity, followed by area, production, and export value. Saudi Arabia was recognized as the most stable market for Afghan saffron, followed by India. Ultimately, the results underscore the importance of focusing on increasing productivity, enhancing quality, and expanding export markets to achieve sustainable growth.

Effects of NPK and Humic Acid on Growth and Yield of Melon under Semi-Arid Conditions of Kandahar

2026-03-31T16:19:13+00:00

Melon (Cucumis melo L.) is one of the members of the Cucurbitaceae family and a common fruit cultivated around the world. Melon also has high nutritional value, containing carbohydrates and vitamins. Macronutrients, especially NPK, are essential for ordinary melon growth and yield. As well as natural fertilizers, bio stimulants such as humic acid also play a crucial role in increasing the growth and yield of melon. For instance, application of humic acid significantly increased plant length, stem diameter, chlorophyll content, and yield of melon. Furthermore, NPK fertilizer increased fruit weight, fruit sweetness, fresh weight, and dry weight of melon. However, there was limited information regarding the combined effects of NPK and humic acid fertilizers on melon growth and yield, and it needed to be investigated widely. Thus, the study aimed to investigate the combined effects of NPK and humic acid fertilizers on the growth and yield of melon. The experiment was conducted during March-July, 2025 using Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) consisting of seven treatments of NPK and humic acid at different levels, replicated three times. The results demonstrated that the application of NPK (50:60:50) and humic acid (10 kg ha⁻¹) increased melon growth parameters such as plant length, number of leaves per plant, and number of branches per plant significantly by 30.55%, 63.77%, and 66.58%, respectively. Moreover, fruit diameter, fruit length, and yield of melon also increased by 44.04%, 28.28%, and 27.32%, respectively. It is recommended that application of NPK (50:60:50) and 10 kg ha⁻¹ of Humic acid increase growth and yield of melon in the study area.

Effect of Fruit Thinning on Quantity and Quality of Apricot Fruit "Blenheim Cv Clone #7359"

2026-03-31T16:20:48+00:00

Optimizing fruit thinning strategies requires a balanced regulation of source–sink relationships; however, limited information is available on the combined effects of fruit spacing and fruit-to-leaf ratio (FLR) under semi-arid conditions. This study evaluated the interactive influence of fruit spacing and FLR on yield components and fruit quality of apricot using a factorial experiment arranged in a RCBD design. The trial was conducted during the 2025 growing season at the Badam Bagh Research Farm, Kabul, Afghanistan. Two factors were tested at five levels each: fruit spacing (control, 5, 7.5, 10, and 12.5 cm) and FLR (control, 25, 30, 35, and 40 leaves per fruit). Growth, yield, physicochemical attributes (fruit size, weight, total soluble solids, titratable acidity, pH, firmness), and sensory characteristics were evaluated. Data were analysed using STAR software. Fruit spacing significantly influenced most yield and quality parameters, whereas FLR showed limited effects. A spacing of 10 cm markedly enhanced fruit weight, largest diameter, firmness, total soluble solids, and acidity compared with the control, while a spacing of 12.5 cm maximized fruit length. No significant interaction effects were observed for most traits, and FLR significantly affected only fruit flavour. These findings indicate that moderate fruit spacing (10 cm) effectively improves apricot productivity and quality by optimizing assimilate distribution under Kabul agro-climatic conditions.

Analysis of Free Vibrations of Homogeneous Rectangular Thin Plates Using the Finite Difference Method (FDM)

2026-03-31T16:22:22+00:00

This study presents a numerical investigation of the free vibration behavior of homogeneous rectangular thin plates, formulated within the Kirchhoff–Love plate theory using the Finite Difference Method (FDM). Dimensionless natural frequencies for the first three vibration modes were computed under various classical boundary conditions—fully clamped (CCCC), supported (SSSS), and mixed (CSCS)—across multiple grid discretizations. The analysis focuses on the convergence of natural frequencies with grid refinement and the influence of boundary constraints on vibration characteristics. The proposed FDM framework employs central difference schemes for derivative approximations, ensuring high accuracy, numerical stability, and rapid convergence, with minimal change in computed frequencies beyond moderate grid sizes. Comparative results with existing studies confirm the approach's reliability and effectiveness. The findings reveal that boundary conditions significantly influence both mode shapes and frequencies. Fully clamped plates exhibit the greatest stiffness, producing the highest natural frequencies, while supported configurations yield lower frequency responses. Mixed boundary conditions produce intermediate behaviors, demonstrating the sensitivity of vibration characteristics to edge constraints. Overall, the findings provide essential insights into the structural design, optimization, and stability assessment of plate structures in engineering applications.

Prevalence and Antimicrobial Resistance of Escherichia coli Isolated from Table Eggs in Kabul City, Afghanistan

2026-03-31T16:22:49+00:00

A cross-sectional study was carried out from January to March 2025 to assess the prevalence of Escherichia coli contamination in table eggs sold throughout Kabul and to characterize the antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profiles of the isolated strains. A total of 150 eggs were collected systematically from various retail outlets, including supermarkets and local markets. To determine the contamination source, eggshells and internal contents were cultured separately. Presumptive E. coli colonies were confirmed using standard biochemical tests. Antimicrobial susceptibility was subsequently evaluated using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method against a panel of six clinically relevant antibiotics. The findings revealed that E. coli was present on 43.3% of eggshells and in 18.0% of egg contents, suggesting potential failures in handling and storage practices. Notably, contamination rates were significantly higher in eggs from local production systems than in those from commercial sources. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing demonstrated high levels of resistance to commonly used antibiotics, including tetracycline (76.9%), ampicillin (69.2%), and sulfamethoxazole (61.5%). Critically, multidrug resistance (MDR), defined as resistance to three or more drug classes, was observed in 57.7% of all isolates, with a significantly higher rate in isolates from local eggs (68.4%). This study reveals a high prevalence of E. coli contamination in eggs sold in Kabul, with the isolates displaying alarming levels of AMR and MDR. The findings underscore an urgent need to implement improved hygiene practices across the entire egg supply chain and to strengthen antimicrobial stewardship policies to safeguard public health in Afghanistan.

Numerical Modeling of Nonlinear Scalar Wave Propagation in a One-Dimensional Elastic Media: Energy Spectrum and Waveform Analysis

2026-03-31T16:23:03+00:00

This study numerically investigated nonlinear scalar wave propagation in a one-dimensional elastic medium using a discrete chain of coupled oscillators. Linear elastic models proved inadequate for capturing amplitude-dependent effects seen in seismic waves, nonlinear acoustics, and heterogeneous materials. To overcome this limitation, two nonlinear extensions of the classical wave equation were developed: an asymmetric quadratic strain-gradient model and a symmetric formulation intended to maintain waveform symmetry and improve numerical stability. The governing equations were solved with an explicit finite-difference time-domain scheme employing high-order five-point spatial discretization, while stability was preserved through the Courant–Friedrichs–Lewy condition. Simulations with weak nonlinearity revealed clear departures from linear behavior, such as waveform distortion, vertical asymmetry, spectral broadening, and partial reflection. Spectral analysis detected secondary frequency components at approximately 3.8 Hz, 6.5 Hz, and 8.8 Hz—absent in linear cases—indicating nonlinear energy transfer to higher harmonics. Comparative evaluation demonstrated that the symmetric model offered superior numerical stability and preserved waveform symmetry. The findings confirmed that even mild elastic nonlinearity substantially modified wave evolution and energy distribution. The proposed framework established a reliable foundation for future work, including extensions to higher-dimensional models and incorporation of more realistic material properties. This research addressed a key gap by providing detailed insights into nonlinear mechanisms affecting waveform symmetry and energy spectra, with potential benefits for enhanced seismic hazard prediction and acoustic signal processing in engineering.

A Cross-Sectional Study on the Prevalence and Risk Factors of Rabies in Kandahar Province

2026-03-31T16:21:55+00:00

Rabies is an acute and fatal viral zoonotic disease transmitted to humans primarily through the bites of infected animals. Globally, approximately 60,000 human deaths occur annually, and the mortality rate in humans approaches 100% once clinical symptoms appear. In Afghanistan, rabies-related morbidity and mortality remain significant. A cross-sectional study was conducted from 2020 to 2024 to assess rabies prevalence in Kandahar City and surrounding areas. During this period, 524 human dog-bite cases suspected of rabies exposure were recorded in Kandahar Province, with 16.7% from urban areas and 83.3% from rural communities. Males accounted for over 71% of cases, and 75.1% were individuals aged 5 or older, while 24.2% were children under 5. All exposures were from dog bites; no cases involved other animals. Key risk factors identified included limited knowledge (20% unaware of rabies), difficulty accessing vaccination services, presence of unvaccinated dogs and cats, and limited healthcare availability in rural areas. Rural communities and young children were at the highest risk. These findings underscore the urgent need for enhanced public education, expanded animal vaccination programs, and improved healthcare access, particularly in underserved regions. Targeted interventions to address knowledge gaps, promote preventive practices, and improve healthcare availability are critical to reducing rabies incidence in Kandahar Province.

The Effect of Gibberellic Acid on Quantity and Quality of Seedless (Keshmishi) Grapes

2026-03-31T16:21:42+00:00

Table grapes are among the most commercially significant non-climacteric fruits worldwide. In Afghanistan, grapes and raisins represent the most valuable perennial fruit crop, with annual production exceeding 1.1 million tons. However, seedless varieties like Keshmishi often produce small berries, limiting their market value. Gibberellic acid (GA₃), a widely available plant growth regulator, is commonly used to enhance berry size, but improper application can negatively affect grape quality and yield. This study investigated the optimal concentration and timing of GA₃ application to improve the quality and yield of Keshmishi grapes in a commercial vineyard in Esfandeh village, Ghazni province. Six treatments were tested, including different concentrations (20–60 ppm) applied at various phenological stages. Results showed that a 30 ppm GA₃ application after flowering significantly increased yield to 36.75 MT/ha—an improvement of 11.5 MT, or 45.5%, over the untreated/control. This treatment also produced larger, well-compacted bunches with minimal adverse effects. Applications at other stages or at higher concentrations did not significantly affect the yield. The study recommends post-flowering application of 30 ppm GA₃ for optimal results. Further research across different cultivars and economic analysis of treatment costs is advised to support broader application in commercial viticulture.

The The Role of Horticulture in Sustainable Rural Development: Apple Orchard Case Study in Qades, Afghanistan

2026-03-31T16:20:35+00:00

Rural development through agricultural diversification has become increasingly critical for sustainable economic growth in developing nations. This study examines the role of apple Orchards in promoting sustainable rural development in Qades district, Badghis province, Afghanistan. Using a mixed-methods approach, we surveyed 295 farmers selected through stratified random sampling from a population of 1,280 apple orchardists. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed in SPSS 26.0 using correlation analysis, multiple regression, and ANOVA. Results indicate significant positive impacts of apple cultivation on rural development indicators. Seventy percent of respondents reported an increase in household income, while 68% identified apple orchards as a source of sustainable employment. Infrastructure improvements were reported by 72% of participants. Strong positive correlations were found between attitude toward apple orchards establishment and orchard size (r = 0.98, p < 0.001) and annual income (r = 0.95, p < 0.001). Multiple regression analysis revealed that orchard size, education level, and farming experience collectively explain 89.2% of the variance in annual income (R² = 0.892, F = 252.3, p < 0.001). Major challenges include water scarcity (reported by 72% of farmers), climate variability, and limited access to financial services. The study concludes that apple orchards serve as an effective catalyst for rural development but require targeted interventions to address water management, farmer education, and market access to maximize their potential.

Theoretical Analysis of the Role of nuclear Energy in Achieving Sustainable Development and Environmental protection

2026-03-31T16:18:45+00:00

Nuclear energy provides reliable, low-carbon baseload power in the global clean energy transition. However, its sustainability remains contested due to radioactive waste management, safety risks, proliferation concerns, and high costs. This theoretical study critically analyzes nuclear energy within the sustainable development framework, assessing its alignment with economic, environmental, and social pillars while considering lifecycle impacts, resource longevity, governance requirements, and ethical implications. Using a qualitative method, the research synthesizes secondary data from IAEA reports, peer-reviewed assessments, and international legal documents. The analysis applies weak versus strong sustainability theory to evaluate resource substitutability and examines social dimensions including public acceptance, intergenerational justice, and historical accident analysis. Findings confirm minimal lifecycle emissions and low acidification potential, aligning with climate goals. Uranium resources are sufficient for over a century, with advanced fuel cycles potentially extending supply for millennia. However, significant challenges persist: long-term radioactive waste storage, safety risks, proliferation concerns, and high capital costs. The study concludes that nuclear energy supports sustainable development only under stringent conditions: robust legal frameworks, effective regulatory institutions, public trust, and innovation. This conditional outcome raises practical questions about nuclear viability in low-income countries lacking such institutional capacity. Therefore, nuclear energy should be evaluated within diversified portfolios, conditioned on rigorous governance, transparent engagement, and ethical responsibility toward future generations.

Influence of Different Land Configuration And Phosphorus Fertilizer Application On Growth And Yields Of Black–Eyed Bean

2026-03-31T16:19:27+00:00

A field experiment was carried out in Nawa-i-Barakzai District of Helmand province, Afghanistan, during the spring season (April, 30–August, 5) of 2025, to study the influence of different land configuration and phosphorus fertilizer application on growth parameters and yields performance of black–eyed bean (Vigna unguiculata L.) in Nawa-i-Barakzai District, Helmand province, arid region of Afghanistan. The treatments consisted of three land configuration treatments, viz. broadcast, line sown and raised bed planting method, allocated to main plots and four levels of phosphorus fertilization, viz. 0, 20, 40 and 60 kg P₂O₅/ha, in subplots. The experiment was conducted in a three-time replicated split plot. The result revealed that different land configuration significantly influenced growth parameters like plant height, leaf area, leaf area index, dry matter accumulation above–ground/plant, root dry weight/plant, number of nodules/plant at maximum flowering stage and tape root length/plant at maximum flowering stage. Numerically higher values for these parameters were observed under the raised bed planting method. furthermore the , raised bed planting method significantly recorded the highest plant height (53.5 cm), leaf area (494.0 cm²), leaf area index (1.77), dry matter accumulation above–ground (41.4 g)/plant, root dry weight (2470.8 mg)/plant, number of nodules (2.39)/plant at maximum flowering stage and tape root length (25.0 cm) at maximum flowering stage. These improvements ultimately led to significantly higher yield attributes, seed yield and stover yield. Similarly higher seed and stover yields were also associated with the raised bed planting method. Among the phosphorus fertilizer application levels, application of 60 kg P₂O₅/ha, resulted in the highest values of all growth parameters, which led to significantly higher yield attributes, seed yield (2.18 t/ha) and stover yield (6.10 t/ha) compared to all other phosphorus levels.

Investigation The Cause of Drought Condition Over Afghanistan With Consideration Of Climate Trends And Indices

2026-03-31T16:20:21+00:00

Global warming significantly intensifies drought conditions, posing severe threats to vulnerable, agriculturally dependent nations like Afghanistan. Existing research often lacks a systematic framework for selecting and validating representative extreme climate indices (ECIs) to accurately capture regional hydroclimatic variability in data-scarce environments. This study addresses this gap by investigating the relationship between drought severity and extreme temperature and precipitation events across Afghanistan during the period 1975–2014. Methodologically, twenty-seven ETCCDI-defined ECIs were initially examined. A robust subset of eight representative indices was systematically selected through correlation analysis and Variance Inflation Factor (VIF) diagnostics, ensuring VIF values below 2.0 to minimize multicollinearity. The Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI), derived from ERA5 reanalysis data, characterized drought. The Mann–Kendall test and Sen’s slope estimator were applied to determine the statistical significance (P < 0.05) and magnitude of long-term trends, followed by correlation analysis. Results indicate that temperature-related ECIs exhibit consistent and statistically significant upward trends across Afghanistan, with TX90P and TN90P increasing by 2-4% per decade. These temperature indices showed strong negative correlations with SPEI, ranging from approximately -0.5 to -0.65, directly linking rising temperatures to intensified drought. The SPEI itself revealed a statistically significant decreasing trend (P < 0.05), notably shifting from near-zero values pre-1999 to consistently below -1 for lower elevations post-1999. Conversely, precipitation-related ECIs displayed no significant long-term variation and exhibited only weak, inconsistent correlations with SPEI (0.0 to 0.25), confirming their lesser role. These findings underscore the dominant influence of temperature extremes on Afghanistan's drought development.

Honey Adulteration and Contamination: Impacts on Nutritional and Medicinal Value

2026-03-31T16:23:16+00:00

Honey has long been recognized for its complex nutritional composition and therapeutic potential, attributable to its naturally occurring vitamins, antioxidants, and other bioactive constituents. In recent years, however, concerns about adulteration and contamination have intensified, raising serious questions about the quality and authenticity of honey available on the market. This systematic review synthesizes global evidence on honey adulteration and contamination, evaluates how these practices affect the nutritional profile and pharmacological properties of honey, and discusses their implications for the honey-producing sectors, particularly in low- and middle-income countries and conflict-affected areas. Many such countries face constraints, including weak regulatory enforcement, limited quality-control systems, and inadequate analytical laboratory capacity, which collectively impede sectoral growth and competitiveness. Drawing on a broad range of peer-reviewed publications and technical reports, the review discusses common adulterants (including sugar syrups and artificial sweeteners) and contaminants (such as pesticides, heavy metals, and antibiotic residues). It also assesses the applicability and performance of analytical methods, including chromatographic, spectroscopic, and molecular-based techniques, for detecting these quality defects. Importantly, no primary laboratory studies quantifying adulteration and contamination in Afghan honey were identified; therefore, information on Afghanistan is used only as a qualitative, contextual example rather than as a source of analytical data. The evidence indicates that uncontrolled adulteration and contamination not only compromise honey’s therapeutic efficacy but also erode consumer confidence and undermine market sustainability. To support long-term sectoral development, the review highlights the need for more robust regulatory frameworks, targeted investment in quality-assurance and testing infrastructure, and structured technical training for beekeepers and honey processors in low- and middle-income settings

Comparative Depth-Dose Analysis for Prostate Cancer BNCT Using MIT and BMRR Epithermal Neutron Spectra Reactors

2026-03-31T16:22:36+00:00

This research concentrated on dose assessments for boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) as a possible definitive treatment for prostate cancer. BNCT functions by precisely targeting boron-10 ) ) to cancerous cells, which, when they absorb thermal neutrons, emit high-energy particles—primarily alpha particles and lithium nuclei—that destroy tumor cells while preserving adjacent healthy tissue. This study assessed the depth-dose distribution within the prostate tumor and adjacent tissues using Monte Carlo simulations with the MCNP and Geant4 codes. These instruments simulate the motion and interactions of neutrons and secondary particles in tissue to accurately predict dose distributions. The simulations employed epithermal neutron spectra from the MIT and BMRR reactors, which are ideal for BNCT, as epithermal neutrons can penetrate deeper into tissue before slowing to thermal energies where boron-10 capture occurs. The findings indicated that the boron-10 concentration, neutron flux, and the configuration of the epithermal neutron spectrum highly influence the depth-dose within the prostate. The estimated total dose in the prostate was 0.03–0.08 (Gy/s). The research additionally measured the dose and energy distributions of secondary particles generated during nuclear interactions, which are crucial for evaluating tumor control and effects on normal tissue. The results suggest that BNCT holds considerable promise as a treatment for prostate cancer, providing precise tumor irradiation and minimizing harm to adjacent tissues.