Volume 10, Issue 3

Advancements in Life Sciences, volume 10, issue 3 – September 2023Cover; Volume 10, Issue 3
ISSN 2310-5380

IN THIS ISSUE

This 3rd issue of the 10th volume has featured 27 multidisciplinary articles including 4 review articles and 23 research papers of authors from 14 countries covering aspects from different stems of life science. Enjoy reading!

 

 

 Review Articles


Negative staining: a forgotten technique in microbiology

Entesar Ahmed Alazazi, Sarfraz Ahmed, Mogana Das Murtey, pages 309-313
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 Electron microscopy techniques have been well established as a rapid method in examining the basic characteristics of microorganisms such as bacteria as well as viruses and subsequently, exploring biological phenomena in greater detail. Though various staining techniques are available for the accurate identification of bacteria and viruses, the negative staining technique is well known for its simplicity. Negative staining is a fast technique that uses only one acidic stain and the absence of heat fixation of the sample. This stain can produce contrast images when an acidic stain does not infiltrate the cell due to repulsion between negative charges of the stain and the bacteria/viruses’ surface. However, this technique is currently fast disappearing from mainstream microscopy techniques. Thus, this short review is intended to highlight the advantages (this wasn’t discussed explicitly) and applications of the negative staining technique among laboratorians, particularly in the current, fast-paced lab environment. 

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An updated review on anti-diabetic agents and their functions: a comparative study
Abrar Hussain, Abdul Latif, Zainia Rehmat, Musarat Riaz, Nelofer Jamil, Muhammad Amir, Muhammad Asif, pages 326-334
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 Chronic metabolic disease is considered by a high concentration of glucose in the blood consequent from imperfections in insulin secretion or insulin action. Currently, it is rapidly becoming an epidemic in several nations around the world affecting millions of people. Hence, it is predicted that the number of affected may double in the next couple of years. This increase may be due to the rise in the aging population, adding to an already existing burden on healthcare providers, particularly in developing countries. Based on the unusual elevation of plasma glucose diabetes is divided into two main types, comprising type (1, 2) DM, gestational diabetes mellitus, neonatal diabetes, maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY), and squeals induced by endocrinopathies, the consumption of steroids, along with other elements. T1 diabetes mellitus and T2 diabetes mellitus are considered inadequate insulin synthesis. Type 1 diabetes is a condition that usually affects young people, while type 2 diabetes is more common in older individuals who have unhealthy lifestyles. Both types of diabetes have different causes, symptoms, and treatments due to their distinct differences in how the body processes sugar. The aim of the present study is to learn more specifically pertaining to diabetes mellitus, its complications including clinical appearance, associated risk factors, anti-diabetic regime and its consequences at present. 

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Diseases of the Neuroacanthocytosis Group: A Systematic Review of Clinical Cases and Difficulties in their Diagnosis
Anna Spesivtseva, Natalya Gvarzhdets, Kazbek Autlev, Evgeny Kruchinin, Ivan Kuznetsov, pages 335-340

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 This systematic review examines diseases within the neuroacanthocytosis group, including chorea-acanthocytosis (ChAc), McLeod syndrome (MLS), Huntington's-like type 2 disease (HDL2), and other neurodegenerative disorders. The objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the clinical manifestations, diagnostic challenges, and current understanding of these rare hereditary diseases. Each nosological unit from this group is caused by various genetic mutations and has a different type of inheritance, pathogenetic changes, and clinical picture. Due to the rarity and relatively little knowledge of the pathogenetic foundations of these diseases, their diagnosis is a difficult task, and their treatment, as a rule, is only symptomatic.  

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Influence of the Properties and Concentration of Pollutants in Wastewater on the Choice of Methods and Technologies of Industrial Water Treatment: A Systematic Review 
Evgeniy Neverov, Alena Gorelkina, Igor Korotkiy, Roman Skhaplokpages 341-349

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 This paper focuses on industrial water treatment, namely modern methods and technologies of pollution removal. The paper discusses the main problems associated with industrial wastewater pollution and describes the most effective purification methods and technologies used in modern industrial processes. Information is provided that allows for a comprehensive and accurate study of modern methods and technologies of industrial water treatment, including a detailed analysis and assessment of the advantages and disadvantages of each of these methods. Authors conducted a literature review for collecting relevant biochemical and molecular approaches to industrial wastewater treatment. Relevant reviews and research papers were selected for detailed analysis. The authors have described each method and provided examples of its application and effectiveness in removing certain types of contaminants. The results of the study indicate that there are many methods and technologies for water purification, but not every method is suitable for all pollution types. The paper contains new data and practical recommendations that can be used by specialists in the field of water treatment to reduce the negative impact on the environment. 

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Full Length Research Articles


Construction and characterization of the ex-situ modified macroporous bacterial cellulose scaffold as a potential epidermal graft
Aylin Basaran Eroglu, Gokhan Coral, Gulsen Bayrak, Sakir Necat Yılmaz, pages 350-355

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 Background: Human health is prone to heavy metals especially which become part of food chain by any means. Previously, no extensive nutritional studies are conducted on local food products and grains. The research work was carried out to observe level of heavy metals in vegetables sold or consumed in different localities of Okara city, Pakistan.

Methods: The concentration of heavy metals Nickel, Cadmium, Cobalt, Copper and Chromium in ten different types of vegetables collected from selected sites survey were analyzed using tri-acid method for atomic absorption spectrometer.

Results: The results showed that concentrations of all analyzed heavy metals were significantly (P≤ 0.05) different, except values of copper in collected vegetable samples. The average concentration ranged from 5.4 – 44.06 ppm of Cobalt, 5.7 – 9.63 ppm of Copper, 4.49 – 11.13 ppm of Cadmium, 4.59 – 33.77 ppm of Chromium and 8.58 – 13.68 ppm of Nickel. Mean concentrations of metals were found in following sequence Copper < Cadmium < Nickel < Chromium < Cobalt.

Conclusion: It was concluded that vegetables can accumulate high concentrations of Cobalt and Chromium while Nickel,  Cadmium and Copper concentrates in low amount,  from which level of chromium and cadmium surpasses the permissible limits by FAO/WHO especially in underground vegetables (Onion and Radish), which could be the cause of serious health issues. Hence, monitoring and assessment of contaminants in vegetables are periodically needed and public safety measures should be imposed.. 

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Biosurfactant Producing Bacteria Associated with Oil Polluted Soils of some Auto Mechanic Workshops in Akure, Ondo State, (Southwest) Nigeria
Oluwatoyin Folake Olukunle, Bukola Rukayat Olowoyeye, Temitope Ojuolape Fadipe, pages 356-361

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 Background: Auto mechanic shops account for a sizable fraction of hydrocarbon leaks that go unnoticed most of the time. This study looked into the biosurfactant-producing activity of hydrocarbon using bacteria isolated from five auto mechanic shops in Akure.

Methods: The bacteria were isolated using standard microbiological procedures. The isolates' oil degrading activity was evaluated on Bushnell Haas medium enhanced with 2% petroleum hydrocarbons (petrol, diesel, crude oil and kerosene). Biosurfactant activity was determined using the drop collapse test, oil spread assay, foaming property, and emulsification activity (E24). Biosurfactant-producing isolates were identified using molecular and morphological techniques, as well as biochemical and biochemical assays. Using universal primers, the isolates' hypervariable 16SrRNA region was amplified and sequenced.

Result: Bacillus paramycoides strain OFOa and Clostridium punense strain OFOb were discovered as the two (2) bacterial isolates with high biodegradation and biosurfactant generating activities in this study. Their sequences had since been submitted to GenBank, with accession numbers MN700654 and MN700653, respectively.

Conclusion: As bio-emulsifiers and biosurfactant makers, the strains of these two (2) bacteria identified in this investigation could be used in bioremediation of hydrocarbon-polluted locations. 

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Chemo-Modulatory Potential of Flaxseed Oil as Natural Anticancer Therapeutic
Aliza Batool, Umar Farooq, Afshan Shafi, Zulqurnain Khan, Rao Muhammad Ikram, Muhammad Shahbaz, Nida Firdous, Mariam Iqbal, Naqi Abbas, Zahid Rafiq, pages 362-367

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 Background: Cancer is a disease which is characterised by uncontrolled cell proliferation and development. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and photodynamic therapy are the most frequent cancer treatments. On the other hand, there are many negative health impacts of radiation and chemotherapy that limit the efficient use of these therapies.

Methods: This scenario needs natural treatments that are cost-effective and has no adverse effects. Flaxseed oil can be used as a nutraceuticals for the management of cancer. The current research was aimed on the exploration of the flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum) oil for in vitro anticancer activity as a natural therapy for the management of cancer. 

Result: The flaxseed powder contained 36.6±0.04% oil contents with an average yield of 36.6±0.03% by using hexane as solvent for extraction. Moreover, the oil contained polyunsaturated fatty acid with omega 3 fatty acid (alpha-linolenic acid) as a dominant content of the oil. In-vitro anticancer activity of flaxseed oil was observed by Cytotoxic (3T3 cell line) and Prostate Cancer (PC3 cell line) indicating that the oil possessed anticancer activity which was dose-dependent.

Conclusion: On the basis of results, it was concluded that the flaxseed or its oil can be used for the management of cancer as a natural therapy by using optimized dose levels for a different types of cancer. 

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Impact of egg size on the quality of eggs, chicks, and post hatch overview of offspring during the mid stage of yield (45th week) in Hubbard broiler breeders
Javid Iqbal, Sohail Hassan Khan, Nasir Mukhtar, Tanveer Ahmad, pages 368-374

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 Background: The most significant component in influencing the performance of the laying flock is egg size. Though commercial broiler farming is in operation, little is known about how breeder hatching egg weight during middle (45th week) phase of yield production effects on qualities of egg & chick and post-hatch Hubbard broiler growth performance.

Methods: At 45 weeks of age, hatching eggs (n=930) from a commercial broiler breeder flock were gathered as well as classified into 3 groups of egg weight: short (60.25±0.25g), medium (65.10 ± 0.31g), and large (70.07 ± 0.61g). These eggs more classified into 2 groups i.e., egg quality parameters and incubation & post hatch performance metrics. Eggs for performance measures related to incubation and post hatch as well as eggs for quality factors are two further categories into which these eggs are divided.

Result: The proportion of shell weight was higher in the eggs obtained from small egg group. The size of the eggs had an effect on the shape index and specific gravity, with larger eggs having lower values. Both male and female chicks' weight and length were significantly influenced by egg size. Data of the body weight gain indicated that as broilers age increases, impact of egg weight on post-hatch performance of chicks’ decreases. Up until age 21, female chicks' body weight gain was highly influenced by egg size. The female chicks' feed conversion ratio at day 21 of life was considerably impacted by various egg-weight categories, while it had no effect on male and female chicks at day 35.

Conclusion: Egg size favorably influenced the features of the chicks (weight and length) but without any impact on feed consumption, conversion ratio & mortality or ultimate overall live weight of the broilers. 

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The correlation between atrophic gastritis and Helicobacter pylori  infection in patients referred to Shohadaye Ashayer Hospital in Khorramabad
Ghobad Abangah, Ahmed Hjazi, Rana Sherdil Amin, Ghadeer Sabah Bustani, Rosario Mireya Romero-Parra, Rahman S. Zabibah, Mosayeb Moradniani, Mahsa Yousefpour Marzbali, Mohamad Reza Nazer, Masoumeh Tahmasebi, pages 375-380

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 Background: Helicobacter pylori and atrophic gastritis are both known as risk factors for gastric cancer. The purpose of this study is to investigate the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection in patients with atrophic gastritis. In addition to being aware of the prevalence of this infection, it is crucial to eliminated of this bacterium due to its carcinogenicity.

Methods: In this descriptive-cross-sectional study, all patients referred to the endoscopy unit of Shohadaye Ashayer Hospital in Khorramabad city for endoscopy during 2015–2016 were included. Referees with atrophic gastritis were classified as patients, while those without the condition were classified as the control group. Then, the frequency of H. pylori infection in patients with atrophic gastritis and people without atrophic gastritis was investigated. After sample collection, the primary data was entered into the SPSS software version 22 for analysis.

Result: The collected results showed that 2121 patients (41%) did not have H. pylori and 3053 patients (59%) had H. pylori. The population over 50 years old had the highest age frequency in the study subjects, while the female group had the highest gender frequency. As a result, the frequency of H. pylori in the antrum area was higher than in other locations in both endoscopy and pathology, but it was not statistically significant (P value >0.05). 54.1% of those who had endoscopy-discovered atrophy also had severe atrophy. H. pylori was found in the antrum in 50% of cases, and in 61.1% of cases when the pathology showed atrophy. This finding was statistically significant (P value <0.05).The incidence of reporting atrophy was 2.8 times higher in the age group of over 50 compared to those under 20. H. pylori was detected in 56.4% of people over 50 who had atrophy; that was statistically significant.

Conclusion: According to the results, there is a significant risk of developing atrophic gastritis in patients with H. pylori, and among females, those over 50 years old have the highest frequency of occurrence. 

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Protective role of ITPA rs1127354-CA polymorphism against anemia in HCV patients using sofosbuvir ribavirin therapy: age and gender match case-control study
Sameen Amjed, Hafiz Ghulam Murtaza Saleem, Sajjad Ullah, Shahzad Latif, Shabana Irfan, Junaid Jafar, Ahmed Bilal Waqar, pages 381-389

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 Background: Hepatitis C virus is affecting around 80 million people. Sofosbuvir ribavirin-based therapy is associated with certain side effects, especially anemia. Inosine triphosphatase (ITPA) genetic polymorphisms cause functional impairment in ITPase enzyme, leading protection against anemia and improving sustained viral response. This study aims to explore the impact of ITPA variants on hemoglobin decline, ribavirin dose reduction, and sustained viral response (SVR) achievement.

Methods: This is prospective gender and age matched case-control study of HCV genotype-3a infected individuals taking sofosbuvir-ribavirin treatment. Patient CBC, viral RNA, liver function test, and ribavirin dose reduction were recorded monthly. ITPApolymorphisms-rs1127354 were determined and confirmed by restriction fragment length polymorphism and sanger sequencing. Effects of polymorphism on hemoglobin level, ribavirin dose and treatment outcome were analyzed.

Results: ITPA rs1127354-CC genotype patients experience significant reduction in level of Hb leading to ribavirin dose reduction. Low mean Hb levels were observed in these individuals at first and last month of treatment. No statistical difference was observed in adverse effects on basis of ITPA genotype except fever. Age, BMI, and ITPA genotype rs1127354-CC were independently associated (p< 0.05) with a decrease in Hb level ≥ 2g/dl below the baseline and ribavirin dose reduction. All patients with rs1127354 CA-genotype achieve SVR.

Conclusion: Pretreatment determination of ITPA polymorphism can further optimize HCV treatment with new direct-acting antivirals. ITPA rs1127354-CA has a protective role against ribavirin-associated anemia development and individualized management of ribavirin dose and along with the achievement of better SVR rates. 

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Isolation an agar degradation Bacillus sp. AT6 and preliminary application for seaweed saccharification
Dang Thi Thanh Ha, Trinh Thi Phuong Thao, Le Thi Kim Thoa, Tran Trung Dung, Tran Thi Minh Ha, Phan Thi Thuc Quyen, Bui Thi Khuyen, Nguyen Duc Huy, pages 390-397

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 Background: Agar is a common polysaccharide found in nature. However, agar is strongly resisted to the degradation processing, leading to limitation of its application in various areas. Thus, finding an effective solution for agar saccharification significantly improves the economically effects of agar based substrates.

Methods: Soil samples were collected from TienPhong Forestry Ltd. Company, ThuyXuan District, ThuaThien Hue province, Vietnam. Potential agar degrading bacteria were screened on a mineral salt agar medium. The isolate was identified based on 16S rRNA nucleotide sequence, morphological, physiological, and biochemical characteristics. Agarase production was evaluated by modification culture conditions including incubation time, shaking speed, and initial inoculum size. Molecular mass of extracellular agarase was determined by native SDS-PAGE. The effect of pH, temperature, metal ions, and organic solvents were conducted for enzyme characterization. Application of enzyme was investigated on seaweed saccharification.

Result: An agar degrading bacterial strain was isolated from soils and identified as Bacillus sp. AT6. Maximal agarase accumulation obtained in the culture containing an inoculum size of 10% (v/v), shaking speed of 210 rpm, and 96 hours incubation. The agarase revealed a single band on zymogram analysis with an apparent molecular weight of 180 kDa. The optimal temperature and pH were 40°C and pH 8.0, respectively. All tested metal ions and organic solvents partially decreased enzyme activity. Treatment seaweed by agarase resulted in reducing sugars release present in the reaction, indicating the saccharification of seaweed was succeeded.

Conclusion: Bacillus sp. AT6 is a new report of agarolytic bacteria that produces extracellular agarase enzymes. The present results promise strain AT6 is a great candidate for agar saccharification for industrial application. 

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Effect of Serine on Growth and Biochemical Constituents of Zea mays L., Triticum aestivum L., and Abelmoschus esculentus L. under Arsenic Toxicity
Sabrina Shahid, Fayaz Asad, Fida Hussain, Tabassum Yaseen, Naveen Dilawar, Imtiaz Ahmad, Sharipova Vasila, pages 398-405

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 Background: Various human activities, such as industrialization, modern farming methods, and mining increase the concentration of heavy metals in air, water and soil. Heavy metal poisoning of soil results in a number of environmental issues and has deleterious effects on both plants and animals. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Arsenite (As) and As+ Serine (Ser) on growth and biochemical components in the early growth stages of Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench, Triticum aestivum L., and Zea mays L. (selected crops).

Methods: Pot experiments were carried out at completely random manner, with 10-12 seeds grown in each pot with three replicates. Seeds and seedlings in pots treated with different concentrations of As and As+Ser. After a 21-days of germination period, we gathered the growth-related parameters (root number, root length, shoot length, and leaf number) and conducted a biochemical analysis.

Results: The growth of selected plants was adversely impacted by Arsenic stress, whereas the detrimental impact was minimal after treatments with Serine. Compression of the selected crops showed that Abelmoschus esculentus L. had the most detrimental impact on agronomic parameters. Biochemical constituents such Chlorophyll “a” “b”, Total-chlorophyll (Photosynthetic pigments), protein and carotenoid contents formation were reduced at individual treatments of As (25, 50, 75 and 100pmm) compared to As+Ser and control treatment, while the proline contents were increased considerably at treatment 100 ppm (As) of the selected crops.

Conclusion: The results showed that As had a greater negative impact on growth and biochemical constituents, whereas Ser had a reduced adverse impact on selected crops. Abelmoschus esculentus L. had a higher sensitivity compared to other selected crops. 

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Assessment of the Safety of Pine Tree Feed Additives
Roman Lapshin, Natalia Maksimova, Victor Lipskiy, Viktor Ryzhov, Vasily Korotky, Irina Mukhina, pages 406-411
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 Background: The research was focused on evaluating the safety of a pine tree energy feed additive, a product developed by Himinvest Scientific and Technical Center LLC, located in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia. The need for this study arose from the growing utilization of such feed additives in the agriculture sector and the necessity to ensure their safe usage for livestock health and welfare.

Methods: The experiments were carried out on white outbred mice and outbred rats of the Wistar line. The authors conducted a study of acute and chronic toxicity and the local irritant effect of the pine tree energy feed additive. In the experiments, the authors did not establish gender-related differences in the sensitivity of animals to the toxic effect of the preparation.

Results: As a result of the conducted studies on white outbred mice, it was found that with a single intragastric injection of the feed additive, it was a relatively harmless substance. Besides, with repeated intragastric administration of the pine tree energy feed additive to outbred rats in subtoxic doses, no significant defects of the functional state of the main organs and systems of the body were observed.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that the pine tree energy feed additive is relatively harmless, thus supporting its safe use. No significant toxicity or irritant effects were observed in the test subjects, making it a viable option for feeding purposes. 

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Role of anti-inflammatory interleukin 10 in asymptomatic heartworm infection (Dirofilariasis) in dogs
Haider Rasheed Alrafas, Jala Amir Salman Alahmed, Israa Muhsen Essa, Sabah Zyara Kadhim, Hassan M Al-Tameemi, Mohammed R. Abduljaleel, Farhan Zameer, Murtakab Younis Al-Hejjaj, pages 412-417
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 Background: Dirofilaria immitis causes heartworm disease (HWD), a vector-borne zoonotic disease that primarily affects dogs and cats. Occasionally, human beings were reported to be infected as well. The current study aims to discover the asymptomatic dirofilariasis infection in dogs. In addition, to determine the prevalence of heartworm disease and the role of anti-inflammatory interleukin 10 (IL10) in developing the disease. Household dogs were selected from 10 veterinary clinics throughout Basrah, south of Iraq.

Methods: The study included 117 dogs older than 12 months, none of them had received heartworm vaccinations, and all of them lived in their owners’ houses for at least 9 months. Animal ethics instructions were followed after the owner’s consent was obtained.  Physical and biochemical examinations were conducted including the examination of circulating antigens of microfilaria. The levels of anti-inflammatory IL10 and pro-inflammatory IL17, IL4, and IFN-γ were measured using ELISA tests. Descriptive statistics were used to evaluate the prevalence and the clinical and immunological results of the study.

Results: Canine heartworm disease prevalence was 29.05% (34 out of 117). The physical examination showed normal vital signs for both infected and non-infected dogs. A significant elevation in the total WBC count was noticed in the infected group.  On the other hand, a significant decrease in RBCs count and hemoglobin was found in the infected group. There were neither changes in the platelet count nor the liver enzymes concentration between infected and non-infected groups.  A significant increase in anti-inflammatory interleukin 10 level and a significant decrease in pro-inflammatory IL17, IL4, and IFN-γ were noticed in the infected dogs.

Conclusion: It is concluded that dirofilariasis infection is considered to be a serious life-threatening disease for dogs in Iraq. Therefore, a periodic test for heartworm infection every six months is recommended to eradicate heartworm infestations. The infected animals must be treated according to the American Heartworm Association recommendations. 

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Effect of adding different concentrations of mix-oil solution to drinking water of broiler chickens Ross 308 and breeders at elevated temperatures on productive performance
Ghufran Hasan Oleiwi, Nihad Mohammed Nafel, Fadhil Rasool Abbas Al-Khafaji, Israa Habeeb Naser, pages 418-425
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 Background: The mix-oil solution added to broiler drinking water was tested at Al-Anwar Poultry Station in Babil Governorate, Iraq, from 10/7/2022 to 14/8/2022.

Methods: 300 Ross 308 broiler chicks, one day old and unsexed, A cohort of chicks, possessing an average mass of 40 g, were subjected to random allocation into five distinct treatments. Each treatment was replicated thrice, with each replicate consisting of 20 chicks. and given mix-oil in their drinking water from day one: T1: control. T2: 0.25 ml MIX-OIL L-1, T3: 0.50, T4: 0.75, T5: 1. The experimental birds received 28–35–28 c.

Results: Treatment T5 and all addition treatments outperformed the control treatment in live weight (p < 0.01). Total weight gain was significantly better for treatment T5 (p < 0.01) than T1 and T4, but not significantly different. T3, T2.

  • The total consumption rate was much higher (p < 0.01). The T3 therapy outperformed all other added therapies.
  • The T5 treatment had a "significant" improvement in total feed conversion coefficient (p < 0.01) over the T4 treatment, but not the control treatment.
  • The addition treatments had 11.66% fewer deaths than the control treatment (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: High temperatures can reduce spent feed, increase the growth of harmful bacteria, and infect the digestive system, affecting broiler performance. However, adding a balanced mixture of highly concentrated fatty acids can reduce bacteria growth and numbers, increasing intestinal cell activity and surface area. It enhances nutrition uptake and boosts broiler output in heat stress. 

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Neurokinin 1 receptor antagonist along with dexamethasone reduces the inflammation in COVID-19 patients: a novel therapeutic approach
Riffat Mehboob, Fridoon Jawad Ahmad, Ahad Qayyum, Muhammad Asim Rana, Muhammad Akram Tariq, Shadi Tamur6, Imran Shahid, Iman M Mirza, Amany Fathaddin, Samy A Abusikkien, Mohamed A Zayed, pages 426-433
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 Background: Corona virus infection is a respiratory infection, compromising the normal breathing in critical patients by damaging the lungs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of Substance P receptor Neurokinin 1 antagonist in COVID-19 patients against the usual treatments as controls.

Methods: It is a two-arm, open-label, randomized clinical trial that was carried out at Bahria International Hospital in Lahore, Pakistan. PCR-positive, hospitalized patients older than 18 years old, all sexes, and in the critical to life-threatening stage were included. 52 patients were placed in control group A and 67 patients were placed in intervention group B out of a total 119 patients who were randomly assigned to both arms. Before and after the intervention, lab tests were conducted in both groups. Aprepitant, a neurokinin-1 receptor antagonist, was additionally administered to the other arm while the other arm got standard therapy and care. Additionally, both groups received oral administration of the corticosteroid dexamethasone.

Results: Patients in group A were on average 56.05 years old, compared to 58.1 years old in group B. There were 24 women in group A and 28 in group B, while there were 28 men and 39 women in group A. Group A had three critical cases, but group B had six. The reduction in C-reactive protein in the intervention group, improvement in platelet count in group B, and normalization of ferritin and LDH levels in group B all indicated decreased inflammation in the biochemical and haematological parameters in both groups. However, because of the reduced sample size, it wasn't very significant.

Conclusion: The results of this recent trial provide a solid indication of Aprepitant's medicinal potential. Patients who got a combined therapy of dexamethasone and aprepitant had better clinical results, more favourable lab results, and lower levels of C-reactive protein, an inflammatory marker. 

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The effects of 4β-hydroxy withanolide E extracted from Physalis Peruviana on Complete Blood Count of Dimethylbenz(a)anthracene-induced Breast Cancer in Albino Rats
Fahmida Gul, Samreen Memon, Ikramuddin Ujjan, Pushpa Goswami, Kanwal Abbas Bhatti, pages 434-438
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 Background: Several studies reveal changes in blood parameters in patients with cancer. Complete blood count is a good predictor for many cancer diagnoses and prognoses. They are also helpful in assessing drug efficacy and toxicity. Cancers may be treated with bioactive and antioxidant compounds derived from plants. The effects of Physalis peruviana on the complete blood count of dimethylbenz(a)anthracene induced are still not well identified.

Methods: This study was conducted at Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, Jamshoro, for six months on 60 female albino rats divided in 05 groups. The effects of Physalis peruviana fruits and tamoxifen on complete blood count in dimethylbenz(a)anthracene induced breast cancer were assessed. Blood samples were collected at weeks 1, 5, 7, and 10 for hematological changes before, during, and after treatment.

Result: Rats of group E (Tumor-induced albino rats treated with the extracts of Physalis Peruviana and tamoxifen) gave the best results compared to other groups. In this group, increases in weight along with an improvement in hematological parameters were observed when compared with others.

Conclusion: The extract from Physalis Peruviana helps in the reversal of pancytopenia with anemia and thrombocytopenia caused by tumor-inducing drugs.

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Knowledge causes and practice of self-medication during COVID-19: A population-based survey in Pakistan
Aiman Zahra, Nafeesa Safdar, Syed Muhammad Muslim Raza, Tanveer Hussain, Muhammad Usama, Kumail Ijaz, Qamar Alipages 439-446
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 Background: Self-medication (SM) is a public health issue upsurge day by day and its side effects accelerate the burden on healthcare, pharmacists, and the economy. The demand for self-prescribed medicines during the COVID-19 pandemic was found to be on the rise globally.

Methods: The survey was conducted during June-August 2021 to analyses knowledge, causes, and practices of self-medication in Pakistan. The Chi-square test was used to examine the relationships between the categorical variable: The Pearson Correlation coefficient determined the relationship between quantitative variables. Age, gender, marital status, education, profession, field, knowledge, causes and practice of SM were variables included in survey.

Result: 203 responses were received in the online survey and results from demographic factors were 104 (51.7%) male, 114(56.7%) single, 20-30 years (42.3%) age group, 44.8% were MS/M. Phil, 31.3% were teacher and 74.1% respondents belongs to the bioscience field. 20.4% considered it good practice while 42.3% responded to it as an acceptable practice. Quarantine was the most significant factor for SM during COVID-19 (68.7%). Discrimination after infection (37.8%) was also of higher priority and SM practiced under the influence of friends and social media, emergency illness, distance to hospitals (19.9%), and prescribed by medical personnel in a health facility (31.3%) followed by own self (22.9%), 19.9% by a friend, and 15.4% by pharmacist. 52.7% used self-prescribed antibiotics with the appearance of symptoms of fever, chills, and tiredness (37.30%).

Conclusion: This population-based survey suggested that legislation, awareness campaigns, media, community, and government should play their part to fight misinformation about alleged COVID-19 preventive medicines on different platforms. 

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A comparative study between X-chromosome mapping of Sudanese and Egyptian Anopheles pharoensis theobald (Diptera: Culicidae) strains
Najlaa Siddig Nasir, Fatima Fadul Ali, Mohamed Osman Elamin, Ali. M. Alshehri, Hatim. A. Natto, Hatim M. Badri, Wahaj A. Khan, Ahmed A. Osman, Luay Alkazmi, pages 447-451
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 Background: Current literature lacks information regarding Anopheles pharoensis malaria transmission patterns. Anopheles pharoensis succeeded in transmitting Malaria in Egypt. However, it was unsuccessful in doing the same in Sudan. From here arises these important questions: Why does it transmit malaria in Egypt but not in the Sudan or other Countries? Is it a Sibling species or a Sub-species? This investigation aimed to answer these questions by studying the genetics of Anopheles pharoensis collected from Egypt and Sudan.

Methods: A comparative study was conducted in Egypt and Sudan to determine the population genetic structure of Anopheles pharoensis species based on chromosomal inversion of karyotypes. Fourth-stage larvae of Anopheles pharoensis were collected from Egypt (Faiyoum government) and from Sudan (Khartoum, Gezira and Sennar states).

Result: Significant levels of differentiation were observed among the species studied.

Conclusion: Investigations suggest that Anopheles pharoensis species collected from Egypt can transmit malaria due to the presence of an inversion in the X-chromosome. The lack of the aforementioned inversion probably prevented the transmission of malaria by Anopheles pharoensis in Sudan. The results above provide insight into malaria transmission patterns by Anopheles pharoensis. However, more needs to be done and hence it is recommended to undergo further research on genetics and morphological studies using molecular biological tool son Anopheles pharoensis in Sudan. 

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Morphological Identification and Resistance Profile of Antibiotic and Heavy Metals-Resistant Bacteria in Hospital Sewage of Peshawar
Muhammad Ijaz, Gulzar Ahmad, Farida Anjum, Usman Zeb, Noor Muhammad, Irfan Khan, Sidra Usman, Abrar Hussain, Shumaila Ubaid, Abdul Haseeb Rahim, Umbarin Latif, Humaira Gul, Rahim Shah, Hafsa Shah, Faryal Azam, Zia Ur Rahman, Muhammad Ayaz, Ahmad Usman Zafar, Faraz Ahmad Khan, Hafiza Wajeeha Zahid, Sulaiman Faisal, pages 452-456
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 Background: Increased resistance of microorganisms to commonly prescribed antibiotics has emerged as a significant hurdle in contemporary medical practice. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared antibiotic resistance as a " major threat to public health.". In the present study, bacterial isolates were selected based on high antibiotic and heavy metal tolerance from a water sample taken from hospital sewage.

Methods: Antibiotic-resistant bacteria were isolated through the disk diffusion method. Gram staining was done for morphological identification. For molecular identification, the 16s rDNA PCR amplification was done with universal primers.

Results: The strain BC1 was found resistant to ampicillin (10μg/ml), and cefixime (5μg/ml). While, susceptible to kanamycin (30μg/ml), azithromycin (15μg/ml) and intermediate in response to amoxicillin (30μg/ml). The strain BC2 was resistant to ampicillin (10μg/ml), cefixime (5μg/ml) and kanamycin (30μg/ml). While, Susceptible to amoxicillin (30μg/ml), and intermediate in response to azithromycin (15μg/ml). The strains were also found resistant to heavy metals.

Conclusion: The recent investigation on bacterial strains from hospital effluent found interesting candidates for understanding the AMR bacteria and developing novel active biomolecules to combat the antibiotics problem. The isolated strains could be a source of novel resistant genes however; a comprehensive molecular analysis is needed for advanced studies. 

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Anticoccidial Effect of Cinnamomum verum Essential Oil and Its Impact on Hematological and Serum Biochemical Parameters in Broilers

Khalid M. Al Syaad, Muhammad Salman, Rao Zahid Abbas, Muhammad Kasib Khan, Muhammad Shahid Mahmood, pages 457-463
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 Background: There are various synthetic anticoccidial drugs available in the market for the control and treatment of coccidiosis in broilers. However, their extensive usage has resulted in the development of drug resistance as well as the presence of drug residues in meat, thus urging scientists to find alternatives for coccidiosis control. Hence, the current research was aimed at the evaluation of the anticoccidial potential of Cinnamomum verum essential oil through the application of both the in-vitro and in-vivo methods.

Methods: The bark of C. verum procured from the market was subjected to hydro-distillation procedure for extraction of the essential oil. The extracted essential oil was subjected to in-vitro evaluation in terms of percent sporulation and oocysts damage at six different concentrations (0.31, 0.625, 1.25, 2.5, 5 and 10% v/v). Similarly, for the in-vivo trial, 72 broiler chicks were randomly divided into six equal groups (A, B, C, D, E and F). The first five groups were infected with oocysts of mixed Eimeria species while the sixth group was kept as non-infected. When the chicks were 14 days old, the infected groups were orally given 55000 oocysts per bird. On the same day 14, the groups A, B and C were given C. verum essential oil at concentrations of 1, 2 and 3% respectively in feed whereas groups D, E and F served as positive control (Toltrazuril® treated), negative control and the normal control respectively.

Result: The results revealed C. verum oil to have an effect on the percent sporulation and oocysts damage. The oil also improved the FCR, lesion score, oocysts score, fecal score and serum biochemical parameters in the treated broilers. However, it had no significant positive effect on the hematological parameters like Hb, PCV and blood cells count, and the weight of internal organs in broilers. For most of the parameters, C. verum essential oil showed a dose-dependent effect.

Conclusion: In nutshell, C. verum essential oil possesses significant anticoccidial potential as demonstrated by the results of both the in-vitro and the in-vivo experiments. However, further studies are required for its validation and commercialization in the poultry sector. 

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Inoculation of wheat with Azospirillum sp. bacteria and study of their germinated portions effects on common carp performance and health aspects

Shahen Kamil Talabani, Shadia Ali Abid, Nasreen MohiAlddin Abdulrahman, Hawar Sleman Hama Halshoy, Shram Hoshyar Karim, pages 464-471
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 Background: As the germinated wheat regarded as a natural source of prebiotic, and the importance of prebiotic on performance and health of fish, so the effect of feed containing various amount of germinated wheat as a natural source of prebiotic, on growth performance, blood chemical, immunity indices, health and biological parameters in common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.). 

Methods: The first experiment started by planting pots in the plastic house, the pots arranged according to a Randomized Complete Design (RCD) layout with three replications. In each replication, ten seeds planted in the pots. The replications divided and arranged on 2 treatments, a control treatment taken in which seeds will be not inoculated with Azospirillum bacteria, the second treatment inoculated seeds with Azospirillum species which isolated from soil and culturing on its selective media then incubated at 28 0C for 7 days, after that the colonies of bacteria activated in its broth culture media at 28 0C for 3 days and it will be used as a liquid inoculum for the seeds. The second experiment the rearing of fish conducted at the Fish diseases Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine/ University of Sulaimani. 100 common carp (Cyprinus. carpio L.) reared for70 days.

Result: Negative control T1 was higher significantly in Hepatic somatic index, T1 and T3 in Gills somatic index. T4 increased significantly in FCR, and Intestine Length index. T3 and T5 increased growth performance parameters and Feed and Protein efficiency ratio. T1, T3, and T4 increased the Intestine weight index. T4 and T5 increased the RBC. T3, T4, and T5 increased the ALT, and Globulin. MCH, MCHC, Lymphocytes, and CKI increased significantly in T5. All treatment groups increased each of Condition factor, and Granulocytes as compared to negative control. No significant differences seen in both Kidney, Spleen somatic index, Hb.

Conclusion: According to the results obtained the inoculation of wheat with Azospirillum sp. bacteria enhance the common carp performance and health aspects by means of some biological parameters. 

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Biolistic Inoculation of Selected Host Plants with different Begomoviruses and their associated Betasatellites: using partially digested rolling circle amplified Viral/Satellite DNA

Mehwish Rauf, Muhammad Zia-Ur-Rehman, Muhammad Saleem Haider, pages 472-478
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 Background: The foundation of modern diagnostics of plant pathogens are based on the confirmation of Koch's postulates. However, following the rules of Koch's postulates is not always straightforward for the viruses because of their non-culturability and difficulties associated with the inoculation approaches.

Methods: Biolistic inoculation of plants with partially digested rolling circle amplified (RCA) viral components was demonstrated in this study. The verified DNA bands were excised from the gel and self-circularized using the rapid DNA ligation kit. The self-ligated viral DNA components were enriched by RCA and partially digested with the respective fast digest restriction enzymes. The RCA prep (partially digested 3 µg of virus and 3 µg of beta-satellite) was biolistically inoculated into healthy plants of Solanum lycopersicum, Nicotiana tabacum and Capsicum annum at the two-true leaf stage.

Results: By using this method, extracted begomoviruses from cotton [ (Cotton leaf curl Kokhran virus-Burewala strain (CLCuKοV-Bu), Tomato leaf curl New Delhi virus (ToLCNDV) and Chili leaf curl virus (ChiLCV) and their associated Cotton leaf curl Multan betasatellite (CLCuMB)] were successfully inoculated and propagated from the inoculation site. Furthermore, it has been noted that these viruses exhibit diverse behaviors in various host plants. The capacity of these viruses to infect systemically in C. annum without causing the typical disease symptoms is of interest.

Conclusion: Biolistic inoculation using partially digested RCA of viral or satellite DNA enables viruses to infect plants with either monopartite or bipartite genomes. This method is easy and quick, and allows begomovirus cultures to be created without the use of Agrobacterium tumefaciens or whiteflies. 

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Genetic Characterization of Carbapenem Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii in Tertiary care settings of Lahore, Pakistan

Saadia Ijaz, Farheen Ansari, Muhammad Nawaz, Aftab Ahmad Anjum, Karam Rasool, pages 479-485
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 Background: Acinetobacter baumannii is major cause of ventilator associated pneumoniae (VAP) as it is an opportunistic nosocomial organism. The current study was to find out the antibiotic resistance pattern of Acinetobacter baumannii, its phenotype and the genetic characterization of Metallo-β-Lactamase (MBL) genes that are responsible for carbapenem resistance.

Methods: One hundred and fifty Carbapenem resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) specimens were isolated and PCR amplification of organism specific bla-OXA-51gene was performed and antibiotic susceptibility was checked. Phenotypic susceptibility analysis was performed by Modified Hodge Test (MHT) and Imipenem-EDTA Double Disc Synergy Test (IMP-EDTA DDST). The carbapenemases and MBL producing genes were amplified by PCR.

Results: CRAB showed high resistance against piperacillin/tazobactam (99.3%), cefepime and ceftazidime (99.3% each), amikacin (91.3%), ciprofloxacin (96.7%) and levofloxacin (96.7%). Only one isolate showed resistance to colistin. The isolates positive for both MHT and DDST (n=70) were further characterized to detect metallo-β-lactamase genes. Molecular characterization revealed the presence of bla-OXA-51 gene in all tested isolates (100%) followed by bla-VIM 89%, bla-OXA-23 64%, respectively and so on. Few genes coexisted with each other including bla VIM, bla OXA 23, bla OXA 51 and bla NDM-1.  None of the isolate was found positive for bla-IMP gene.

Conclusion: It is concluded that CRAB isolates exhibited a high rate of resistance towards antimicrobials because of the presence of drug hydrolyzing enzymes, carbapenemases and MBLs. This is among the rare study reported recently indicating CRAB isolates co-harboring many resistant genes are very difficult to treat. There is a dire need to develop novel antibiotics against resistant A. baumannii to minimize its prevalence. Moreover, it is recommended that colistin treatment in the clinical settings should be continuously monitored in order to prevent the development of resistance. 

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Investigation of pathogenic Streptococci species in local and imported mozzarella soft cheese in Baghdad city
Moutaz A.W. Abdul Mounam, Nagham Mohammed Al-Gburi, Basil R.F. Razook, pages 486-490
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 Background: The present work investigated the profile and biodiversity of the pathogenic streptococci species isolated from local and imported mozzarella soft cheese in Baghdad City from October 2022 to January 2023. The study aimed to examine the molecular characterization of 16Sr RNA gene in some streptococcus species isolates from mozzarella soft cheese in Baghdad city

Methods: From 50 samples, 8 isolates in all were found and identified based on the VITEK, molecular, and sequencing of the 16SrRNA gene. The eight isolates represented Lactococcus cremoris. Streptococcus alactolyticus, Streptococcus sanguinis, and Streptococcus thoraltensis. The isolates were subjected to conventional PCR and electrophoresis to detect the 16SrRNA gene using specific primers , Streptococcal genes were used in the neighbor-joining phylogenetic analysis that determined these sequences were derived from Streptococcal genes.

Results: DNA sequencing evaluation Significant alignments (96-99% identities) to the Streptococci isolates found in BLAST-NCBI Gene-bank were discovered after sequencing the bacterial DNA products generated by PCR. The results revealed that 8/50 amplified the 16SrRNA gene, which has a molecular weight of about 1250 bp. the gene distribution was statistically significant (≤ 0.05).

Conclusion: Streptococcus isolates from mozzarella soft cheese by using molecular tools to first stop the spread of the epidemic of harmful microorganisms in food, it is represented a health risk for the consumers. 

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Capability of Trichoderma viride to Produce Cellulolytic and Pectolytic Enzymes
Abdel Moneim Elhadi Sulieman, Siham M. Hakim, Wasima Alshammari, Nawaf I. Alshammari, Zakaria A. Salih, pages 491-496
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 Background: Species of the genus Trichoderma have been used in the food and textile industries to produce cellulases and other enzymes that degrade complex polysaccharide structures. Trichoderma species have been utilized to make cellulases and other enzymes that break down intricate polysaccharide structures in the food and textile industries. The study investigated the nutritional requirements and the production of enzymes by the fungus Trichoderma viride fungus' ability to produce enzymes).

Methods: We used a medium supplemented with cellulolytic and pectic substances for enzyme production.

Results: The results of the study proved that. Methionine, Glutamic acid, and leucine effectively enhanced mycelial growth. Findings regarding impact of pH level on the development of the fungus T. viride indicated that the maximum growth was at pH 5.0. However, growth decreased dramatically with increasing pH values. We examined the power of the fungus T. viride to produce cellulolytic and pectolytic enzymes in various substrates in the current study.

Conclusion: The findings demonstrated that Pectin was the best substrate for pectolytic enzyme synthesis, whereas Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) was the best substrate for the cellulolytic enzyme. 

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Identification of phytochemicals as potential inhibitors against E6 protein of High-Risk Human Papillomavirus 16(HPV 16) via In-Silico Structure-Based Virtual Screening Approach
Arshad Jamal, pages 498-504
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 Background: The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a potentially fatal infection and the most common cause of cancer related feminine mortality around the world, thus requiring the design of anticancer drugs. The E6 oncoprotein is one of the most investigated therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. E6 oncoprotein plays a major role in tumor progression and cell immortalization. The E6 protein leads to the degradation of tumor suppressor protein P53 via interacting with E6 binding protein E6AP. Therefore, inhibiting the E6 protein can be a potential target for HPV.

Methods: In this study we performed virtual screening of 2296 phytochemicals library from MPD3 database against E6 protein.

Results: Three compounds were picked out as potential inhibitors. These compounds were selected  considering their binding energy and hydrogen bond interactions. Further to verify the stability of the docked complexes 100ns molecular dynamics simulations were carried out.

Conclusion: Keeping in view the numerous analyses, we suggest that the potential three compounds could prove relevancy regarding the anti-HPV therapeutic advancements. 

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