Journal of Natural Science Review

Opportunities and Challenges to Afghanistan's Self-sufficiency in Livestock Production Sector

Assadullah Samadi — 2025-06-30

Afghanistan is an agricultural country where livestock is the main source of income for most of the people. Although hundreds of thousands of metric tons of livestock products are produced, large amounts of animal products are still imported to the country. Therefore, a cross-sectional study was conducted to identify the opportunities and challenges confronting Afghanistan's self-sufficiency in livestock products. The data were collected from 48 key professionals by semi-structured interviews using a pre-designed questionnaire. More than 52% of the respondents hold bachelor's/DVM degrees, while the rest have master's (35.4%) and PhD (12.5%) degrees in veterinary (72.1%) and animal science (27.9%) fields. About 80% of the respondents believed that Afghanistan has sufficient capacity to become self-sufficient in the animal products sector. At the same time, only half of them thought that Afghanistan is moving on the right track towards self-sufficiency in animal production. Destruction of pastures (95.7% ), neighboring countries' interventions in the market (95.1%) and importation of low-quality animal products (89.4%), insufficient scientific research projects (84.8%) and funds (84.5%) in the animal health and production sector, lack of proper packaging (87.2%) and suitable domestic market (80%) for animal products, traditional husbandry system (83.3%), shortage of concentrated feeds (78.3%) and excessive paperwork for the investors (69.6%) are the main challenges in front of self-sufficiency in animal products. The results of this study could help policymakers prioritize the animal health and production sector and adjust existing policies regarding animal products to meet the country's needs and accepted standards.

Assessing Rangeland Conditions and Sustainable Management Strategies in Bamyan, Afghanistan

Ghulam Hazrat Ghulami — 2025-06-30

Identifying effective solutions for rangeland-related challenges has become increasingly complex. Rangelands cover the majority of Bamyan province and serve as a vital source of meat and dairy production. Most farmers in the region are agro-pastoralists who depend heavily on rangelands as their primary asset, while intensive livestock farming systems remain uncommon. Given the ecological importance and the widespread degradation of natural resources, this study aimed to explore sustainable solutions to prevent further destruction of rangelands in Bamyan. Although previous research has largely focused on identifying causes of degradation, there has been limited attention to practical and localized solutions. This study employed a dual-method approach: (1) a review of library and online resources, and (2) fieldwork using observational tools, semi-structured interviews, and questionnaires based on a five-point Likert scale. Due to the absence of a complete list of farmers, simple random sampling was used to select 110 participants in 2023. The findings indicate that most Bamyan farmers are older, married, and illiterate, with primary agricultural outputs including potatoes, wheat, legumes, and fruits. Factor analysis revealed three key areas for intervention: (1) the role and support of government institutions, (2) the contribution of researchers, and (3) the internal involvement of local beneficiaries. Each of these factors encompasses a range of specific solution-oriented variables. The study highlights the importance of collaborative efforts and researcher engagement in the sustainable management of natural resources in Bamyan.

Response of Onion Growth and Yield to Potassium Application in Alkaline Soils

Mohammad Khalid Rashidi — 2025-06-30

Onion (Allium cepa L.) is one of the most important commercial vegetables, which, after tomatoes, ranks second in the world, especially in Afghanistan. It is a great source of vitamins, protein, and amino acids, which are useful for human food and traditional medicine. This experiment was conducted in 2022 at the research farm of the agriculture faculty of Kabul University to find out the response of onion to potassium application in alkaline soil. The different levels of potassium (0, 11.25, 22.5, 33.75, 45, 56.25, 67.5, 78.75, and 90 kg per hectare) were used as treatments. The growth, quality, and yield attributes of onions were studied in this investigation. The research was designed in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD), and the data was analyzed with Statistical Tools for Agricultural Research (STAR 2.0.1) software. The results show that the application of 22.5 kg per hectare potassium boosts both growth and yield attributes of onion. Farmers are suggested to apply this quantity of potassium through the sulfate of potash to produce a higher yield of onion.

Effects of Nutrient Management on Growth, Agronomic Efficiency, and Economic Yield of Barley in Kandahar, Afghanistan

Wakil Ahmad Seerat — 2025-06-30

Barley (Hordeum vulgare) is a major grain crop in the world, and Afghanistan. Indigenous nutrients are frequently the most limiting factors for crop output in the world's major agricultural areas, therefore good fertilizer use tactics generally result in significant financial gains for farmers. A field experiment was carried out at the research farm of Afghanistan National Agricultural Science & Technology University (ANASTU) Kandahar, Afghanistan. The experiment consisted of two barley varieties viz., Takhar Barley 013and Darulaman Barley 013 combined with 6 indigenous nutrient supply treatments. The set of treatment combinations were replicated three times in a factorial randomized block design. Among indigenous nutrient supply, agronomic use efficiency (AUE) of N (12.88 kg kg-N^-1), P (25.75 kg kg-P^-1), K (40.0 kg kg- K2O ^-1) and Zn (367.9 kg kg-Zn^-1), PFP of N (29.2 kg kg-N^-1), P (58.3 kg kg-P^-1), K (116.7 kg kg- K2O ^-1) and Zn (833.4 kg kg-Zn^-1), gross returns (109085.4 AFN ha^-1) and net returns (50089.5 AFN ha^-1) were significantly higher with application of recommended rates of fertilizer application (NPKZn) as compared to omission of nutrients. Whereas, N omitted plots recorded significantly, whereas AUE over other nutrient omitted plots. Therefore, Takhar Barley 013 genotype along with recommended rate of fertilizers was found more productive and economically remunerative for cultivation in Kandahar, Afghanistan.

Impact of Naphthalene Acetic Acid (NAA) on Growth, Quality and Yield of Eggplants

Mohammadullah Amin — 2025-06-30

The present investigation was conducted to study the effect of Naphthalene Acetic Acid (NAA) on the growth, quality, and yield of eggplants. The research was conducted at the Agriculture Research farm of Kabul University from April to September 2024. A Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications and five treatments was employed: T1 (40 ppm), T2 (50 ppm), T3 (60 ppm), T4 (70 ppm), and T5 (Control). Data were collected on various growth parameters, fruit quality traits, and yield components. The recorded data were analyzed using the Statistical Tools for Agricultural Research (STAR) software. Results showed that NAA significantly enhanced eggplant growth, yield, and quality. T1 (40 ppm NAA) had the highest plant height (73.73 cm), branch number (9.20), leaf count (97), and leaf area (235.75 cm²), while the control group had the lowest values. T1 also produced the longest fruit (23.87 cm), largest diameter (4.21 cm), highest weight (186.67 g), and most fruits per plant (10.11). Similarly, T1 yielded the highest per plant (1.31 kg) and per hectare (41.9 metric tons), whereas the control recorded the lowest. Post-harvest results indicated no significant difference in shelf life. T1 had the best fruit appearance, texture, and flavor, with the highest overall acceptability (Like Moderately), while the control had the least (Neither Like nor Dislike). The results can be concluded that spraying eggplants with 40 ppm Naphthalene Acetic Acid (NAA) at two stages (50% flowering and 20 days after the first application) can significantly improve their growth, quality, and yield. Farmers can spray this concentration of NAA to achieve vigorous growth, higher yield, and improved fruit quality.

The Impact of Beekeeping on Small Holder Farmers’ Household Income in Kandahar, Afghanistan

Shair Ahmad Hashmat — 2025-06-30

Beekeeping is a vital component of rural economies, significantly contributing to household income, particularly in agricultural regions. This study employed a cross-sectional survey design to analyze the impact of market outlet choices and related socioeconomic factors on beekeeping income in Kandahar, Afghanistan. A structured questionnaire was administered to 310 randomly selected beekeepers across five key districts known for honey production. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression to identify significant predictors of income and assess the effectiveness of various market strategies. This study examines the relationship between beekeeping and the household income of smallholder farmers. Using a multiple regression model, data from 310 sample households distributed across four districts and Kandahar City were examined. The findings revealed a positive relationship between beekeepers' income and beekeeping factors, such as family size and work experience. The research suggests that governments, in collaboration with relevant NGOs, can encourage wholesale opportunities and strengthen ties between producers and customers to address the honey demand gap and boost beekeepers' incomes. Although this study primarily focuses on Afghanistan, its findings apply to other rural agricultural regions, demonstrating the potential of beekeeping to promote economic growth and alleviate poverty. These findings can inform programs and policies aimed at enhancing the economic resilience and sustainable livelihoods of rural populations worldwide.

Cancer Treatment Using Neutron Capture with Boron: Comparing the Effectiveness of Neutron Energy Generating Sources

Rajab Ali Khavari — 2025-06-30

Cancer treatment with neutron radiation is a significant scientific advancement. Neutrons are produced through nuclear fission in reactors, nuclear reactions in accelerators and neutron generators, and are also emitted by radioisotopes. The purpose of this article is to review and compare neutron sources obtained from various natural and artificial sources/methods; they can be used in the treatment of various diseases, especially cancers, in a therapeutic technique known as boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT), which, like proton accelerators, relies on external neutron sources, but with enhanced characteristics, can serve as a promising method for treatment. The results show that whenever hyperthermal and fast neutrons are produced, neutron modulators can be used to convert them into thermal neutrons. In conclusion, given the operational advantages of accelerators—such as no radiation emission when turned off, ease of adjustment, lower cost, compact size, and higher safety—they are more suitable than other sources for medical applications.

Effects of Microplastics on Aquatic Animals: A Case Study on Daphnia

Karima Wardak — 2025-06-30

Plastic is one of the most significant technological products of the twentieth century. Its environmental impact includes the release and accumulation of toxins and contaminants, as well as endocrine disruption in aquatic organisms. Microplastics, in particular, are increasingly present in freshwater ecosystems; however, their specific effects on small aquatic organisms, such as Daphnia, remain poorly understood. In this study, various types of virgin plastics (HDPE, LDPE, LLDPE, PA6, PA6.6, PVC (rigid and flexible), PP, PS, TPU) were obtained from Hi-Tech Polymer Products in Ludhiana. These plastics were ground into small particles and measured using a micrometer, yielding a mean particle size of 0.398 µm. The chemical structures of the microplastics were identified using FTIR spectroscopy. The Daphnia culture was maintained in 1000 ml glass beakers. Microplastic particles and small elongated fibres, approximately 300 µm in size, were introduced into the aquatic environment to evaluate ingestion and toxicity. The findings revealed that Daphnia ingested long synthetic fibres and that exposure to microplastics negatively affected their normal biological functions. Mortality increased with both exposure time and microplastic concentration. This study contributes to the understanding of microplastic toxicity in freshwater ecosystems and emphasizes the vulnerability of Daphnia to plastic pollution.

Optimizing Waste Transfer Station Siting in Kabul Using GIS-Based Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis

Mohammad Kamil Halimee — 2025-06-30

Efficient siting of waste transfer stations is vital for reducing operational costs, improving recycling outcomes, and minimizing environmental impacts in rapidly urbanizing cities like Kabul. Despite the Kabul Urban Design Framework (KUDF, 2018) identifying nine proposed locations for transfer stations, not a single facility has been implemented, largely due to financial limitations and uncertainty over the technical suitability of those sites which resulted in delays in implementation of transfer stations and inefficient sorting and hauling of waste to the Gazak 2 landfill limiting recycling efforts and landfill diversion due to mixed and contaminated waste. This study applies a GIS-based Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) framework, incorporating the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Weighted Linear Combination (WLC), to identify spatially optimal locations for waste transfer stations in Kabul. Four criteria—proximity to main roads, residential areas, water bodies, and terrain slope—were evaluated and weighted using expert input. Results show that only 18.16% of Kabul’s land is highly suitable for transfer station siting, with buildings and roads being the most influential factors. When overlaid with the KUDF-proposed sites, six of nine were found to be located within suitable or highly suitable zones. The remaining sites require further reassessment due to proximity to sensitive areas or infrastructural constraints. The findings highlight the critical role of spatial decision support in addressing implementation delays and improving solid waste logistics. This study provides a replicable framework and practical guidance for Kabul Municipality and other cities facing similar challenges in optimizing waste management infrastructure.

Recognition and Ranking of Factors Influencing Flood Occurrence in Baghlan Markazi District Using AHP and SAW Methods

Saleh Mohammad Salehy — 2025-06-30

Floods are one of the major natural hazards globally, leading to substantial economic damages and loss of human lives annually as a result of various contributing factors. Among natural disasters, floods contribute to approximately 20% of global disaster-related mortality and 33% of total economic losses. Afghanistan is one of the developing countries that, due to its broader challenges, has not yet implemented a comprehensive strategy for flood management. Baghlan Province, as one of Afghanistan's key industrial and agricultural regions, is highly vulnerable to flooding due to its topographical features. Central Baghlan District experienced significant human and financial losses as a result of floods in the spring of 1403 AH. This paper first conducts a detailed analysis of the factors influencing flood occurrence in Sheikh Jalal, Darwaza Kan, Laqiha, and Shahrak Mohajerin areas of Central Baghlan District. Subsequently, four key factors and twenty specific criteria were identified as significantly affecting flood occurrence in the region. After conducting field observations and site studies, a questionnaire was developed in accordance with the identified effective factors and criteria, structured within the framework of the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). Interviews were then carried out with local residents, domain experts, and government officials to collect relevant data. After obtaining the weights of the criteria, the second questionnaire was designed using the Simple Additive Weighting (SAW) method, and interviews were conducted with local residents, experts, and relevant officials. The influencing factors were ranked based on their normalized weights, where the environmental factor ranked first with a weight of 0.261, while the economic factor ranked last with a weight of 0.224.

Geochemical and Petrographic Analysis of Metamorphic Rocks in Aliabad Mountain, Kabul Block, Afghanistan

Hafizullah Rasouli — 2025-06-30

The Kabul Block, a key geological feature in Afghanistan, comprises sedimentary, metamorphic, and volcanic rocks, including those of Aliabad Mountain. Despite its significance, Aliabad Mountain has received limited geochemical study. This research characterizes the lithological variations, chemical composition, and mineralogical properties of its metamorphic rocks to elucidate their protolith nature and tectonothermal history. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and petrographic analyses were conducted on 15 rock samples collected from five localities across Aliabad Mountain. Samples were powdered, pelletized, and analyzed using a calibrated XRF spectrometer. Results indicate a silicate-rich composition, with SiO₂ ranging from 60–72 wt%. One lithological unit shows elevated Fe (5.0–6.5 wt%), Ti (0.3–0.5 wt%), Mn (0.05–0.08 wt%), and Zr (0.015–0.02 wt%), suggesting a mafic or hydrothermally altered protolith. Another unit is enriched in phosphorus (0.1–0.5 wt%) and contains apatite and trace Cu (0.001–0.003 wt%), indicating a felsic, phosphate-bearing origin. Ni (0.002–0.004 wt%) and Co (0.008–0.012 wt%) were detected only in the oxide-rich lithology, while Au, Ag, Pd, Nb, and W were below detection limits, ruling out metallic mineralization. Petrographic analysis reveals biotite gneisses and amphibolites with sedimentary textures, supporting a paragneiss origin. These findings enhance understanding of the Proterozoic Kabul Block’s geological evolution and suggest potential for construction material sourcing due to the rocks’ stable mineralogy, despite limited economic mineral potential.