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Abstract Vitamin D deficiency is common in many societies and causes rickets and non-skeletal disorders in children. There are no published data on vitamin D deficiency in Afghanistan. We, therefore, investigated the prevalence and associated factors of vitamin D deficiency in Afghan school children in Kandahar City, Afghanistan. This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted from September 2022 to April 2023 in 510 primary school students aged 6–15 years from six randomly selected schools. Data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, and multivariate logistic regression. Of the 510 enrolled children, 54.3% were boys and 91.8% were poor. The mean serum 25(OH)D concentration was 9.3 ng/mL. Vitamin D deficiency (

In this study, we aimed to find problematic and supportive issues in Afghan undergraduate students' proofs of the irrationality of [square root]3 and [square root]5/8 while using the indirect proof method. Collecting and analyzing produced proofs of 30 sophomore and 48 senior undergraduate students on the irrationality of [square root]3 and [square root]5/8, respectively, revealed that the majority were not able to extend indirect proof beyond showing the irrationality of [square root]2 due to not being able to apply the supportive 'multiples of an integer' notion in their reasoning process of the irrationality of [square root]3, and this notion was not supportive in the case of showing irrationality of [square root]5/8, and finally we propose the method of finding nonzero integral solutions to the resulted Diophantine equation and using the rational roots theorem to prove that [square root]p/q is irrational.

Abstract Background Dental caries is a major, multifactorial oral condition that causes the demineralization of tooth enamel and impacts approximately half of the world’s child population. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of dental caries among school-going children aged 7 to 13 years in Kabul city. Methods This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 491 students aged 7 to 13 years in Kabul during the first half of 2019. A multistage cluster sampling method was used, in which educational zones, schools, and classes were selected. The data were collected using pre-structured questionnaires through face-to-face interviews and oral examinations of students using dental probes and mouth mirrors while adhering to infection control protocols. The collected data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science version 21.0, and a p-value

Abstract Background Undernutrition, which includes stunting, wasting, and underweight, is a global problem, especially among children of low- and middle-income countries. To our knowledge, this study is first of its type from Afghanistan. Its main objectives were to estimate the prevalence and associated risk factors of stunting, wasting/thinness, and underweight among urban primary school children in Kandahar city of Afghanistan. Methods This school-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 1205 primary school children aged 6–12 years during a period of six months (October 2022–March 2023). Anthropometric measurements and other data were collected from all the participants. Data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics, Chi square test (using crude odds ratio or COR), and multivariate logistic regression (using adjusted odds ratio or AOR). Results Among the 1205 enrolled government school students, 47.4%, 19.5%, and 25.6% had stunting, wasting/thinness, and underweight, respectively. Statistically significant factors associated with stunting were age group 6–9 years (AOR 1.3, 95% CI 1.1–1.7), being girl (AOR 2.3, 95% CI 1.8–3.0), poverty (AOR 2.2, 95% CI 1.5–3.2), large family (AOR 3.0, 95% CI 2.4–3.9), illiterate mother (AOR 1.6, 95% CI 1.0–2.6), jobless head of the family (AOR 3.3, 95% CI 2.3–4.8), and skipping breakfasts (AOR 1.7, 95% CI 1.2–2.3). Main factor associated with wasting/thinness were age group 6–9 years (AOR 30.5, 95% CI 11.8–78.7), skipping breakfasts (AOR 22.9, 95% CI 13.9–37.8), and history of sickness during the past two weeks (AOR 17.0, 95% CI 6.6–43.8). Also, main factors associated with underweight were age group 6–9 years (AOR 2.6, 95% CI 1.6–4.1), skipping breakfasts (AOR 2.6, 95% CI 1.8–3.6), and poor sanitation (AOR 1.9, 95% CI 1.1–3.2). Conclusions Stunting, wasting/thinness, and underweight are highly prevalent among primary school children (both girls and boys) in Kandahar city. It is recommended that local government (Afghanistan Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health) with the help of international organizations and donor agencies should implement comprehensive school-based feeding programs especially for girls. Health and nutrition education programs should be conducted with emphasis on nutrition of children aged 6–9 years as well as importance of healthy breakfast and good sanitation.

The sorption isotherm (SI) of dried tomatoes was studied at three different temperatures, 15, 25, and 35 °C, using a static gravimetric method. The modified forms of the Guggenheim-Anderson-de Boer (mGAB), Halsey (mHAL), Henderson (mHEN), and Oswin (mOSW) models that incorporate the temperature term in their equation were selected and used to describe the experimental data of dried tomatoes. The mGAB model best described the SI of dried tomato samples at individual temperatures, having the highest coefficient of determination (R2) and the lowest sum of squares of errors (SSE), the root mean square error (RMSE), and the corrected Akaike information criterion values (AICc). However, based on the statistical indices, three other tested models outperformed the mGAB model in describing the multi-temperature estimation to differentiate the temperature effect. The mOSW and mHAL models were superior in this case.

This study investigated the combined effects of calcium carbide waste (CCW) and lateritic soil (LS) on sustainable concrete’s fresh and mechanical properties as a construction material for infrastructure development. The study will explore the possibility of using easily accessible materials, such as lateritic soils and calcium carbide waste. Therefore, laterite soil was used to replace some portions of fine aggregate at 0% to 40% (interval of 10%) by weight, while CCW substituted the cement content at 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% by weight. A response surface methodology/central composite design (RSM/CCD) tool was applied to design and develop statistical models for predicting and optimizing the properties of the sustainable concrete. The LS and CCW were input variables, and compressive strength and splitting tensile properties are response variables. The results indicated that the combined effects of CCW and LS improve workability by 18.2% compared to the control mixture. Regarding the mechanical properties, the synergic effects of CCW as a cementitious material and LS as a fine aggregate have improved the concrete’s compressive and splitting tensile strengths. The contribution of LS is more pronounced than that of CCW. The established models have successfully predicted the mechanical behavior and fresh properties of sustainable concrete utilizing LS and CCW as the independent variables with high accuracy. The optimized responses can be achieved with 15% CCW and 10% lateritic soil as a substitute for fine aggregate weight. These optimization outcomes produced the most robust possible results, with a desirability of 81.3%.

This study explored the influence of proof understanding strategies and negative self-concept on undergraduate Afghan students' achievement in modern algebra 1. To examine the relationships among proof understanding strategies, negative self-concept and achievement in modern algebra 1, we used structural equation modeling on data collected from three classes of students taking modern algebra in two consecutive years of 2016 and 2017. Participants of this study included 139 sophomore Afghan students, 40.29% male and 59.71% female. Conducting SEM analysis resulted the following findings: firstly, negative self-concept had significant negative influence over students' achievement in modern algebra 1; secondly, proof understanding strategies had significant positive influence over students' achievement in modern algebra 1; thirdly, negative self-concept had significant negative influence over proof understanding strategies; finally, the data fitted very well the SEM model, implying that proof understanding strategies and negative self-concept significantly influence students' achievement in modern algebra 1.

The blood–cerebrospinal fluid barrier (BCSFB) tightly regulates molecular exchanges between the bloodstream and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), creating challenges for effective central nervous system (CNS) drug delivery. This review assesses intrathecal (IT) nanoparticle (NP) delivery systems that aim to enhance drug delivery by circumventing the BCSFB, complementing approaches that target the blood–brain barrier (BBB). Active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) face hurdles like restricted CNS distribution and rapid clearance, which diminish the efficacy of IT therapies. NPs can be engineered to extend drug circulation times, improve CNS penetration, and facilitate sustained release. This review discusses key pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters essential for the effectiveness of these systems. NPs can quickly traverse the subarachnoid space and remain within the leptomeninges for extended periods, often exceeding three weeks. Some designs enable deeper brain parenchyma penetration. Approximately 80% of NPs in the CSF are cleared through the perivascular glymphatic pathway, with microglia-mediated transport significantly contributing to their paravascular clearance. This review synthesizes recent progress in IT-NP delivery across the BCSFB, highlighting critical findings, ongoing challenges, and the therapeutic potential of surface modifications and targeted delivery strategies.

AbstractThe study aimed to analyze the perceptions of FinTech in the Middle East region, specifically its usage, and performance. To attain this objective, a strategy employed on surveys as the primary data acquisition method was implemented. The survey was conducted between November 2021 and February 2022, which allowed the researcher to gather comprehensive data from respondents during this period. In order to ensure the descriptive nature of the study, cross-sectional research was employed in its design. This design allowed the researcher to gather data at a single point in time, which was appropriate for the scope of this study. The researcher utilized a questionnaire during the inquiry to elicit information for data collection purposes. The questionnaire was designed to include semi-structured questions, which allowed the respondents to provide detailed information on their perceptions of FinTech. This study employed a survey-based technique to analyze the perceptions of FinTech in the Middle East region. Using a cross-sectional design and semi-structured questions allowed the researcher to achieve the descriptive nature of the research. Additionally, cross-tab analysis and SPSS provided an in-depth understanding of the data collected. The findings from the analysis suggest that FinTech enhances the performance of financial institutions and that digital banking is the best feature of FinTech across all customer groups.

Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) presents a critical neurologic emergency characterized by high mortality and morbidity rates, necessitating immediate therapeutic intervention, often ahead of definitive microbiological and molecular diagnoses. The primary hurdle in effective TBM treatment is the blood–brain barrier (BBB), which significantly restricts the delivery of anti-tuberculous medications to the central nervous system (CNS), leading to subtherapeutic drug levels and poor treatment outcomes. The standard regimen for initial TBM treatment frequently falls short, followed by adverse side effects, vasculitis, and hydrocephalus, driving the condition toward a refractory state. To overcome this obstacle, intrathecal (IT) sustained release of anti-TB medication emerges as a promising approach. This method enables a steady, uninterrupted, and prolonged release of medication directly into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), thus preventing systemic side effects by limiting drug exposure to the rest of the body. Our review diligently investigates the existing literature and treatment methodologies, aiming to highlight their shortcomings. As part of our enhanced strategy for sustained IT anti-TB delivery, we particularly seek to explore the utilization of nanoparticle-infused hydrogels containing isoniazid (INH) and rifampicin (RIF), alongside osmotic pump usage, as innovative treatments for TBM. This comprehensive review delineates an optimized framework for the management of TBM, including an integrated approach that combines pharmacokinetic insights, concomitant drug administration strategies, and the latest advancements in IT and intraventricular (IVT) therapy for CNS infections. By proposing a multifaceted treatment strategy, this analysis aims to enhance the clinical outcomes for TBM patients, highlighting the critical role of targeted drug delivery in overcoming the formidable challenges presented by the blood–brain barrier and the complex pathophysiology of TBM.

Surgical site infections (SSIs) after spinal surgery present significant challenges, including poor antibiotic penetration and biofilm formation on implants, leading to frequent treatment failures. Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) is widely used for localized drug delivery in bone infections, yet quantifying individual drug release kinetics is often impractical. This retrospective study analyzed 23 cases of deep SSIs (DSSIs) following spinal surgery treated with antibiotic-loaded PMMA. A mathematical model estimated personalized drug release kinetics from PMMA, considering disease types, pathogens, and various antibiotics. The study found that vancomycin (VAN), ceftriaxone (CRO), and ceftazidime (CAZ) reached peak concentrations of 15.43%, 15.42%, and 15.41%, respectively, within the first two days, which was followed by a lag phase (4.91–4.92%) on days 2–3. On days 5–7, concentrations stabilized, with CRO at 3.22% and CAZ/VAN between 3.63% and 3.65%, averaging 75.4 µg/cm2. Key factors influencing release kinetics include solubility, diffusivity, porosity, tortuosity, and bead diameter. Notably, a patient with a low glomerular filtration rate (ASA IV) was successfully treated with a shortened 9-day intravenous VAN regimen, avoiding systemic complications. This study affirms the effectiveness of local drug delivery systems (DDS) in treating DSSIs and underscores the value of mathematical modeling in determining drug release kinetics. Further research is essential to optimize release rates and durations and to mitigate risks of burst release and tissue toxicity.

Due to inadequate treatment, diabetes mellitus, which is characterized by hyperglycemia, is a global health challenge that requires creative management techniques. This study explores the therapeutic potential of Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench fruit extracts in diabetes, offering an ample approach includes phytochemical analysis, qualitative and quantitative assessments, antidiabetic efficacy, antioxidant potential, and in vivo and in vitro investigations. Thin‐layer chromatography (TLC), high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) were utilized to disclose the phytochemical profile of the fruit extracts, which indicated a diverse range of bioactive compounds. Four polyphenolic compounds including chlorogenic acid, quercetin, rutin, and morin were confirmed by HPLC fingerprinting, with rutin being the most prevalent. Qualitative analysis reveals the presence of carbohydrates, emodin, terpenoids, lignin, glycosides, and anthraquinones, while indicating the absence of amino acids, anthocyanins, phlobatannins, lactones, and leucoanthocyanins. Quantitative analysis reveals total phenolic, tannin, and flavonoid. In vitro assessments demonstrate the ability of the extracts to inhibit alpha amylase. Radical scavenging activities were evaluated through DPPH assay, underscoring their antioxidant capacity with high effect in methanol extracts. Additionally, the methanol extract decreased the blood glucose level of Type 2 diabetic mice. Notably, test samples stabilized blood glucose levels, reversed deviations in blood profile parameters, blood biochemistry, and regulated organ weight. Based on its antioxidant and antidiabetic effects, as well as positive effects on the physiology of Type 2 diabetic mice, A. esculentus emerges as an important nutraceutical vegetable. As an important nutraceutical vegetable, it holds promise for diabetes management. A. esculentus can be incorporated into dietary interventions for individuals with diabetes, harnessing its natural antioxidant and antidiabetic properties. Our findings validate the traditional use of A. esculentus in green therapeutics. In conclusion, A. esculentus emerges as a valuable ally in the fight against diabetes, bridging the gap between ancient wisdom and modern science. Further research and practical implementation are warranted to fully realize its potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents an innovative approach to improving the mechanical and viscoelastic properties of 3D-printed stereolithography (SLA) nanocomposites by incorporating graphene nanoplatelets (xGNP) into photopolymer matrices. Utilizing an SLA 3D printer, photopolymer formulations with xGNP concentrations of up to 0.25 wt% were successfully produced. Post-print curing was carried out using two different methods: ultraviolet (UV) curing and high-temperature curing at 160 °C. Mechanical characterization using nanoindentation showed a significant increase in elastic modulus by 104% and an increase in hardness by 85% for nanocomposites containing 0.25 wt% xGNP. Furthermore, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) revealed a 39% improvement in storage modulus for samples without post-curing and an improvement of approximately 30% for samples subjected to high-temperature curing. These significant improvements highlight xGNP's potential to not only increase the performance of SLA 3D-printed components but also streamline the manufacturing process by reducing or eliminating energy-intensive post-curing steps. This innovative integration of graphene nanoplatelets paves the way for the production of high-performance, functional 3D-printed products and offers significant advances for various industries with a high impact. The results highlight the transformative role of nanomaterials in additive manufacturing and position this work at the forefront of materials science and 3D printing technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the challenges and prospects associated with the adoption of Islamic banking in Afghanistan. Despite the global growth and acceptance of Islamic banking by approximately 50 countries by 1997, Afghanistan only embraced it between 2008–2009. The decision to convert conventional banks to Islamic ones, driven by the involvement of interest rates (riba) in the prevailing system, necessitates a thorough examination of the challenges and the need for an appropriate response. The study employs qualitative, analytical, and exploratory methods, reviewing secondary sources and conducting unstructured interviews with key stakeholders, including officials from the Da Afghanistan Bank (DAB), staff of Islamic banking institutions, experts in Islamic banking and finance, and consumers. The findings reveal that the challenges in promoting Islamic banking in Afghanistan are more complex and multi-layered than commonly understood, stemming from the legal system, regulatory capacities and mindset, banking services, and public perception. The paper emphasizes the importance of addressing these challenges comprehensively to safeguard the already fragile economic and financial sector. Failure to do so may lead to further deterioration. This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by shedding light on the unique challenges and prospects of Islamic banking in Afghanistan, providing valuable insights for policymakers, regulators, and practitioners in shaping an effective transformation strategy.

The UNICEF Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey module for water testing was included in the 2016/2017 Afghanistan Living Conditions Survey (ALCS) for 10 of the 34 provinces. The module's impact on the survey implementation was assessed through interviews and focus group discussions with survey teams. To assess the level of fecal contamination, drinking water from the source and at the point of consumption was tested for Escherichia coli using on-site membrane filtration. On-site testing of water generated significant interest from community members to receive water test results and understand how to keep their drinking water safe from contamination. The inclusion of the module in the ALCS facilitated access of the enumerators to both communities and households. Only 21.0% of households used safely managed drinking water services. A majority of households (58.2%) used water sources contaminated with E. coli, while E. coli contamination at the point of consumption was found in 77.0% of households. E. coli were more frequently detected in water sources used by households with unimproved sanitation. Beside improvement and increased protection of the water supply services, water quality deterioration between source and point of consumption calls for the promotion of safe handling and storage of water at the home. HIGHLIGHTS This study suggests that inclusion of water quality module for SDG 6.1 monitoring into household surveys seems highly feasible.; E. coli contamination of drinking water was found higher at point of use than at point of collection particularly in water sources used by households with unimproved sanitation.; Only 21% of households met SDG criteria of safely managed drinking water services in 10 of the 34 provinces of Afghanistan.;

The blood–cerebrospinal fluid barrier (BCSFB) tightly regulates molecular exchanges between the bloodstream and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), creating challenges for effective central nervous system (CNS) drug delivery. This review assesses intrathecal (IT) nanoparticle (NP) delivery systems that aim to enhance drug delivery by circumventing the BCSFB, complementing approaches that target the blood–brain barrier (BBB). Active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) face hurdles like restricted CNS distribution and rapid clearance, which diminish the efficacy of IT therapies. NPs can be engineered to extend drug circulation times, improve CNS penetration, and facilitate sustained release. This review discusses key pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters essential for the effectiveness of these systems. NPs can quickly traverse the subarachnoid space and remain within the leptomeninges for extended periods, often exceeding three weeks. Some designs enable deeper brain parenchyma penetration. Approximately 80% of NPs in the CSF are cleared through the perivascular glymphatic pathway, with microglia-mediated transport significantly contributing to their paravascular clearance. This review synthesizes recent progress in IT-NP delivery across the BCSFB, highlighting critical findings, ongoing challenges, and the therapeutic potential of surface modifications and targeted delivery strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study conducted at a hospital in Kabul, Afghanistan examined the prevalence of anxiety and depression symptoms among patients with psoriasis. The study included 340 individuals, with 57.1% being women and 42.9% being men, and the average age was 35.2 years. The study found that 25.9% of patients had moderate to severe anxiety symptoms, with factors such as being female, older age, low education, and multiple psoriasis symptoms being associated with these symptoms. The study also found that 31.8% of patients had moderate to severe depression symptoms, with similar factors being associated with these symptoms. The study highlights the psychological impact of psoriasis in Afghanistan and suggests the need for screening and integrated management of both dermatological and psychological factors. However, the study's limitations include its single-center, hospital-based nature. [Extracted from the article]

aimaa Nasr Amin,1,2 Gehan El-Akabawy,3– 5 Mohammad Adel Abuqasem,6 Asem Abdullah AL-Rawashdeh,6 Maram Mohamed Ayyad,6 Ahmad Khalid Ibrahim,6 Ali Mohammad AlShawagfeih,6 Sara Khaled Ebdah,6 Rana Jassem AlHajri,6 Ahmed A Ismail7,81Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan; 2Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt; 3Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Ajman University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates; 4Centre of Medical and Bio-allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates; 5Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Menoufia, Egypt; 6House Officer, Medical Graduates Training Program, Jordan Medical Council, Amman, Jordan; 7Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Menoufia, Egypt; 8Department of Health and Environment, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa, KS, USA Correspondence: Shaimaa Nasr Amin, Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, The Hashemite University, P.O. Box 330127, Zarqa, 13133, Jordan, Tel +962770507906, Email [email protected] Purpose: Cognitive flexibility is a mental ability that aids in smoothly alternating between them tasks in the brain. Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a, common disorder that has been associated with impairments in cognitive functions. This research is a retrospective case-control study aimed at establishing a clear relationship between cognitive flexibility and diabetes among Jordanians, considering demographic, anthropometric, and therapeutic variables. Patients and Methods: The Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST)-64 item and the Trail Making Test (TMT) assessed cognitive flexibility in 268 people with diabetes and healthy control. Demographic, therapeutic data were collected. We also measured waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and body mass index (BMI). As the variables were non-normally distributed, non-parametric statistical tests were used to examine differences (Kruskal–Wallis) and correlation (Spearman) between variables. Results: The patient group did worse on the WCST In contrast to the control group, patients exhibited more significant delays for both Part A and Part B of the TMT (p< 0.05). Males had higher WCST conceptual level responses than females. In addition, participants with professional jobs showed less delay in TMT Part A (p< 0.05). Age was positively correlated with WCST's total errors and TMT's Parts A and B (p< 0.05). BMI was negatively correlated with the WCST's conceptual level of responses and positively correlated with TMT's Part B (p< 0.05). In addition, urea and albumin levels were positively correlated with TMT's Part A (p< 0.05). Furthermore, creatinine was positively correlated with WCST's total errors and TMT's Part A (p< 0.05). Conclusion: Some measures of cognitive flexibility are associated with DM status in the studied sample of Jordanians and other variables (educational levels, occupation, lifestyle, average duration of illness, and age). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a novel fuzzy-augmented model reference adaptive voltage regulation strategy for the DC–DC buck converters to enhance their resilience against random input variations and load-step transients. The ubiquitous proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller is employed as the baseline scheme, whose gains are tuned offline via a pre-calibrated linear-quadratic optimization scheme. However, owing to the inefficacy of the fixed-gain PID controller against parametric disturbances, it is retrofitted with a model reference adaptive controller that uses Lyapunov gain adaptation law for the online modification of PID gains. The adaptive controller is also augmented with an auxiliary fuzzy self-regulation system that acts as a superior regulator to dynamically update the adaptation rates of the Lyapunov gain adaptation law as a nonlinear function of the system's classical error and its normalized acceleration. The proposed fuzzy system utilizes the knowledge of the system's relative rate to execute better self-regulation of the adaptation rates, which in turn, flexibly steers the adaptability and response speed of the controller as the error conditions change. The propositions above are validated by performing tailored hardware experiments on a low-power DC–DC buck converter prototype. The experimental results validate the improved reference tracking and disturbance rejection ability of the proposed control law compared to the fixed PID controller. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]