Assessment of plant growth promoting bacteria strains on growth, yield and quality of sweet corn

The use of plant growth promoting bacteria (PGPB) is increasingly gaining acceptance from all the stakeholders of the agricultural production. Different strains of PGPB species had been found to have a vast variety of mechanisms of action, while at the same time, affect differently a variety of crops. This study investigated the effectiveness of ten PGPB strains, on sweet corn cultivation under Mediterranean soil and climatic conditions. A field experiment that followed a completely randomized design was conducted at the region of Attica at Oropos. The results indicated that B. mojavensis increased yield by 16%, B. subtilis by 13.8%, B. pumilus by 11.8% and B. pseudomycoides by 9.8% compared to control. In addition, the harvested grains of the plants treated with B. mojavensis, B. subtilis and B. pumilus presented the highest values of protein and fiber content. Moreover, in most of the cases, high values of photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate and stomatal conductance during the cultivation period, resulted in high productivity. Regarding the texture, the size, the sphericity and the ash content of corn grains, it was found that they were not influenced by the application of different treatments of PGPB. The use of certain strains of PGPB, under specific soil and climatic conditions could contribute to better understand which strains are better suited to certain crops.

Haematological malignancies implications during the times of the COVID-19 pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has complicated current healthcare services for cancer patients. Patients with haematological malignancies specifically seem vulnerable to SARS-CoV-2 infection due to their immunosuppressed status. The COVID-19 pandemic influences every step of the assessment and treatment of a haematological malignancy. Clinicians must adhere to strict policies to not spread the virus to their patients while they must also adjust their workflow for maximum productivity. These difficulties accentuate the ever-present need to improve the healthcare services for cancer patients. This improvement is needed not only to combat the problems that arose from the COVID-19 pandemic but also to establish a framework for the management of patients with haematological malignancies in potential future pandemics.

Reintroducing Flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) to the Mediterranean Basin: The Importance of Nitrogen Fertilization

An increasing interest has been reported regarding the reintroduction of flax in the Mediterranean region. The aim of this present study was to evaluate the effects of nitrogen (N) fertilization on the performance of flax cv. Everest, under Mediterranean climate conditions. A two-year study was carried out in 2018–2019, in Western Greece. The experiment was set-up in a randomized complete block design with four replications and six treatments of different N fertilization rates (0, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 kg N ha−1). Measurements included plant biomass, the leaf area index (LAI), the yield, and the Growth Degree Days (GDDs) required for full seed maturity. The N uptake of flax was also evaluated utilizing the Nitrogen Harvesting (NHI) and Nitrogen Utilization Efficiency (NUtE) indices. Although the highest fertilization rate (60N) increased the yield by 35.4% (2018) and 23.1% (2019), a GDDs and N indices assessment revealed that it noted the lowest efficiency and may lead to significant yield losses, as it significantly prolonged the crop cycle. On the contrary, even though fertilization rates of 20 and 30 kg N ha−1 increased the yield only by 7% and 15% (on average), they were more efficient, and prolonged the crop cycle less (compared to 60N).

Clinical Genomic, phenotype and epigenetic insights into the pathology, autoimmunity and weight management of patients with Myasthenia Gravis (Review)

Myasthenia Gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease that affects neuromuscular junctions and is characterized by muscle weakness as a result of autoantibodies against certain proteins. As a heterogeneous disorder, MG presents with different types, including neonatal, ocular and generalized in both juveniles and adults. Different types of antibodies serve a role in how MG presents. The main biological characteristic of MG is the production of antibodies against the muscular acetylcholine receptor; however, other types of antibody have been associated with the disorder. The role of the thymus gland has been established and thymectomy is a possible treatment of the disease, along with traditional medication such as pyridostigmine bromide (Mestinon) and immunosuppresants. In recent years, steps have been made towards developing more sensitive diagnostic methods. Additionally, novel treatments have demonstrated promising results. Developing new assays may lead to an increased understanding of the disease and to unravelling the genetic pathway that leads to the development of neuromuscular diseases.

Effect of Rhizophagus irregularis on Growth and Quality of Cannabis sativa Seedlings

Rhizophagus irregularis is an arbuscular mycorrhiza fungus that can enhance plant nutrition and reduce transplant shock on seedlings. The present study aims to evaluate the effects of this fungus on the quality of cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) seedlings.A greenhouse float system experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with three treatments. The treatments included the application of 40, 80 and 120 fungus spores per L of nutrient solution (AMF1, AMF2 and AMF3, respectively). The evaluation was performed based on the agronomic characteristics of the seedlings (root and stem length and weight, stem diameter), N and P content, survival rate, and the Dickson's quality index (DQI). Results indicated that root length and stem dry weight were significantly increased (by 34.14% and 21.4%, respectively) in the AMF3 treatment. The biomass of the seedlings' roots, the fresh weight and the N content were not affected by the AMF. On the contrary, survival rate, P content and DQI were significantly increased in AMF3 (by 5%, 24.3% and 12.4% respectively). Overall, our findings suggest that the application of high doses of Rhizophagus irregularis (AMF3) on float system-produced cannabis seedlings results in a considerable increment of their quality.

Study of the Langat virus RNA-dependent RNA polymerase through homology modeling

Langat virus is a member of the Flaviviridae family and a close relative of a group of important tick-borne viruses that cause human encephalitis. RNA-dependent RNA polymerase is a significant component of the replication mechanism of the Flaviviridae viral family. In the present work, a three-dimensional model of the Langat virus RNA-dependent RNA polymerase was designed through homology modeling. The experimentally determined structure of the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase of Dengue virus type II, another member of the same viral family, was employed as template for the homology modeling process. The resulting model underwent a series of optimisations and its quality was verified using the Verify3D algorithm. Important functional characteristics of the family of viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerases were identified in the generated model, thus affirming the potential for its use in the possible design of anti-viral agents for Langat virus.

Functions, pathophysiology and current insights of exosomal endocrinology (Review)

Studies on extracellular vesicles have increased in recent years. The multi‑dimensional nature of their roles in cellular homeostasis, cell‑to‑cell and tissue‑to‑tissue communication at the level of the organism, as well as their actions on the holobiome (intra‑/interspecies interaction), have garnered the interest of a large number of researchers. Exosomes are one of the most researched classes of extracellular vesicles because they are carriers of targeted protein and DNA/RNA loads. Their multi‑functional cargo have been indicated to regulate a vast number of biological pathways in target cells. However, the mechanisms governing these interactions have not yet been fully determined. Endocrinology, by definition, focuses on homeostatic, and cell‑to‑cell and tissue‑to‑tissue communication mechanisms. Therefore exosomes should be included in this research topic. Exosomes have previously been associated with a number of endocrine disorders, including obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, disorders of the reproductive system and cancer. Furthermore, their biogenesis, composition and function have been associated with viruses, an entirely different domain of life. The profound roles of exosomes in homeostasis, stress and several pathological conditions, in conjunction with their selective and cell‑specific composition/function, allude to their use as promising circulating clinical biomarkers of systemic stress and specific pathologic states, and as biocompatible vehicles of therapeutic cargo. The current review provides information on exosomes and discusses their endocrine implications.

An in silico and in vitro pipeline for the rapid screening of helicase modulators

To evaluate the potency of potential helicase modulators, we developed an assay of helicase enzyme activity. Using a DNA or RNA biotin labelled oligonucleotide and after the addition of a recombinant helicase, the nucleic acid unwinds, causing the emission of luminescence, which is quantified with a particular antibody. In our assay, one of the DNA oligos was biotinylated, while the other was labelled with digoxygenin (DIG), both in their 5’ termini. The biotin molecule immobilises the DNA duplex on a neutravidin-coated plate and the helicase activity is measured through the unwinding of DNA, due to ATP activation. The subsequent release of DIG-labelled oligos results in a luminescence signal measured with a chemiluminescence antibody. Our goal was to provide a high throughput screening method for potential helicase inhibitors. The method described in this paper has been demonstrated to be fast, easy and reproducible and doesn’t use radiochemicals.

Pulsed electromagnetic field: an organic compatible method to promote plant growth and yield in two corn types

Pre-sowing treatment of pulsed electromagnetic fields was used in corn seeds, in both indoor and outdoor conditions, in order to investigate the effect on plant growth and yield. The results of this research showed that pulsed electromagnetic fields can enhance plant characteristics, both under controlled environmental conditions and uncontrolled field conditions. The two varieties responded differently in the duration of magnetic field. Seeds were treated for 0, 15, 30, and 45 min with pulsed electromagnetic field (MF-0, MF-15, MF-30, and MF-45). Common corn variety performed better results in MF-30 treatment, while sweet corn variety performed better in MF-45 treatment. Magnetic field improved germination percentage, vigor, chlorophyll content, leaf area, plant fresh and dry weight, and finally yields. In the very interesting measurement of yield, seeds that have been exposed to magnetic field for 30 and 45 min have been found to perform the best results with no statistical differences among them. Another interesting finding was in root dry weight measurements, where magnetic field has a negative impact in MF-30 treatment in both hybrids, however without affecting other measurements. Enhancements on plant characteristics with economic impact on producer's income could be the future of a modern, organic, and sustainable agriculture.

Cytokine profile in cases with premature elevation of progesterone serum concentrations during ovarian stimulation

The aim of this study was to investigate the concentrations of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), leptin, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin (IL)-1beta and IL-6, in cycles with a premature rise of serum progesterone. 25 intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles with (Group 1) and 25 ICSI cycles without a premature progesterone elevation (Group 2) were included. The cut-off value of serum progesterone on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) administration was 0.9 ng/ml. The indication for ICSI was male factor infertility exclusively. On the day of hCG injection, serum IL-6, VEGF and bFGF were significantly higher in Group 1 (7.7+/-24.5 pg/ml, 290.2+/-161.4 pg/ml and 15.7+/-8.2 ng/ml respectively) than in Group 2 (1.7+/-0.7 pg/ml, 175.2+/-92.1 pg/ml, and 9+/-1.6 ng/ml respectively). On the day of follicular puncture, serum cytokine concentrations were similar in the two groups. IL-6 intrafollicular concentrations were higher in Group 1 (14.7+/-20.7 pg/ml) than in Group 2 (9+/-9.3 pg/ml, p=0.031). There were no differences regarding the ICSI outcome. Patients with serum progesterone above 0.9 ng/ml, have elevated serum concentrations of IL-6, VEGF, and bFGF, as well as elevated intrafollicular concentrations of IL-6. The outcome of ICSI cycles is not associated with premature elevation of progesterone when the cut-off value is set at 0.9 ng/ml.

Modulatory role of adenosine and its receptors in epilepsy: possible therapeutic approaches

Adenosine is considered to be the brain's endogenous anticonvulsant as many studies have showed and it is responsible for seizure arrest and postictal refractoriness. Alterations in the adenosinergic system (adenosine and its receptors) have been referred by many previous studies indicating that deficiencies or modifications in the function of this purinergic system may contribute to epileptogenesis. Due to this emerging implication of adenosine in the managing of seizures, a new field of adenosine-based therapies has been introduced including adenosine itself, adenosine receptor agonists and antagonists and adenosine kinase inhibitors. The method with the least side effects (heart rate, blood pressure, temperature or even sedation) is being quested including intracerebral implantation of adenosine releasing cells or devices.

Angiogenic effect of intramuscular administration of basic fibroblast growth factor in atrophied muscles: an experimental study in the rat

BACKGROUND

Although angiogenic therapy using recombinant growth factors holds much hope for the treatment of ischaemic diseases, there are still many unanswered questions, including its effectiveness on atrophic muscles.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the angiogenic effects of intramuscularly administered basic fibroblast growth factor (b-FGF) on normal gastrocnemius muscles of rats and atrophic gastrocnemius muscles after tenotomy.

METHODS

Forty rats were divided into groups as follows: group A, controls; group B, injected with 1 microg b-FGF; group C, tenotomy performed on the right gastrocnemius muscle; group D, tenotomy and 1 microg b-FGF. Mouse anti-rat CD31 antibody was used to evaluate the number of blood vessels present in histological preparations.

RESULTS

There was a significant (p<0.01) decrease in the number of blood vessels compared with the controls in the atrophic muscles of group C. This was similar to the decrease in muscle weight in this group. However, there was a significant (p<0.01) increase in the number of blood vessels compared with the controls in groups B and D. Similarly, there was a significant (p<0.01) increase in the number of blood vessels in group D compared with the atrophic muscles in group C.

CONCLUSION

Intramuscular administration of b-FGF increases angiogenesis in both normal and atrophic rat gastrocnemius muscles at the injection area.

The role of basic-fibroblast growth factor (b-FGF) in cyclosporine-induced nephrotoxicity

BACKGROUND

The effect of the b-fibroblast growth factor (b-FGF) on cyclosporine A (CsA)-induced nephrotoxicity in the rat kidney was investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The rats were divided into six groups: A (control), B (b-FGF-treated), C, D: (CsA-treated and sacrificed on days 14 or 21), E, F (Cs A- and b-FGF- treated and sacrificed on days 14 or 21). The antibody mouse anti-rat CD31 was used to evaluate the kidney vessels present in histological preparations.

RESULTS

The kidney vessels in group B were increased in comparison with the control group (p<0.05). Reduction of kidney vessels in groups C and D (p<0.05) in comparison with the controls was observed, while in groups E and F they were increased when compared to group C (p<0.05) and D (p<0.05), respectively.

CONCLUSION

The angiogenic role of b-FGF was confirmed in normal rats and a possible "protective" role of b-FGF was shown in rat kidney with CsA-induced nephrotoxicity.

Angiogenic effect of intramuscular administration of basic and acidic fibroblast growth factor on skeletal muscles and influence of exercise on muscle angiogenesis

BACKGROUND

Angiogenic factors which control the angiogenic process represent a promising strategy for restoration of blood flow, but require further evaluation before clinical use. Exercise has also been reported to induce neovascularisation in muscles.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the angiogenic effects of basic fibroblast growth factor (b-FGF) and acidic fibroblast growth factor (a-FGF) on rat gastrocnemius muscle, when administered intramuscularly, and to compare them with those obtained by daily exercise.

METHODS

Forty nine rats were allotted to the following groups: A, controls; B, exercise by swimming; C1 and C2, intramuscular injection of b-FGF and a-FGF respectively; D1 and D2, b-FGF and a-FGF injection in combination with exercise. The antibody mouse anti-rat CD31 was used to evaluate the numbers of blood vessels present in histological preparations of gastrocnemius muscle.

RESULTS

Significant increases in the numbers of blood vessels of the right gastrocnemius muscles in groups C1 and D1 were observed compared with controls (p<0.05). There was only a slight increase in angiogenesis in the left gastrocnemius muscle of groups C1 and D1 compared with controls (p>0.05), and there was a decrease in angiogenesis in the gastrocnemius muscle of the swimming group compared with controls.

CONCLUSION

The intramuscular administration of b-FGF, but not a-FGF, induced significant local angiogenesis in gastrocnemius muscle at the site of injection.