bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The LKA gene is a BRASSINOSTEROID INSENSITIVE 1 homolog of pea
Authors: Nomura Takahito , Bishop Gerard J. , Kaneta Tsuyoshi , Reid James B. , Chory Joanne , Yokota Takao
Published: October 2003

Brassinosteroids (BRs) are growth‐promoting plant steroid hormones, and in garden pea (Pisum sativum L.), the lka mutant is defective in BR perception. Here, we show that LKA encodes P. sativum BRI1 (PsBRI1), a homolog of BRI1, which is the Arabidopsis leucine‐rich repeat receptor‐like kinase/BR receptor. PsBRI1 was isolated by screening a pea cDNA library using Arabidopsis BRI1 cDNA as the probe. PsBRI1 is predicted to encode a 1188‐amino‐acid protein that has 78% similarity with Arabidopsis BRI1. Sequence analysis of PsBRI1 in the lka mutant led to the identification of a missense mutation that converts the highly conserved aspartic acid residue to asparagine, which is located in the leucine‐rich repeat, just before the island domain that may bind BR or a BR–protein complex. The mutation identified in PsBRI1 co‐segregated with the semi‐erectoide lka phenotype. Transcript analysis of LKA/PsBRI1 indicates that it is ubiquitously expressed in pea and that the expression was downregulated by exogenous BR. The lka mutant was then utilized in further studies to analyze the independent actions of BR and gibberellin (GA) through the characterization of BR response on GA mutants and GA response on BR mutants.
Sequence database of 1172 T‐DNA insertion sites in Arabidopsis activation‐tagging lines that showed phenotypes in T1 generation
Authors: Ichikawa Takanari , Nakazawa Miki , Kawashima Mika , Muto Shu , Gohda Kazushi , Suzuki Kumiko , Ishikawa Akie , Kobayashi Hiroko , Yoshizumi Takeshi , Tsumoto Yuko , Tsuhara Yumi , Iizumi Haruko , Goto Yukiko , Matsui Minami
Published: October 2003

Plant genomic resources harbouring gain‐of‐function mutations remain rare, even though this type of mutation is believed to be one of the most useful for elucidating the function of unknown genes that have redundant partners in the genome. An activation‐tagging T‐DNA was introduced into the genome of Arabidopsis creating 55 431 independent transformed lines. Of these T1 lines, 1262 showed phenotypes different from those of wild‐type plants. We called these lines ‘AT1Ps’ (activation T1 putants). The phenotypes observed include abnormalities in morphology, growth rate, plant colour, flowering time and fertility. Similar phenotypes re‐appeared either in dominant or semi‐dominant fashion in 17% of 177 AT2P plants tested. Plasmid rescue or an adaptor‐PCR method was used to identify 1172 independent genomic loci of T‐DNA integration sites in the AT1P plants. Mapping of the integration sites revealed that the chromosomal distribution of these sites is similar to that observed in conventional T‐DNA knock‐out lines, except that the intragenic type of integration is slightly lower (27%) in the AT1P plants compared to that observed in other random knock‐out populations (30–35%). Ten AT2P lines that showed dominant phenotypes were chosen to monitor expression levels of genes adjacent to the T‐DNA integration sites by RT‐PCR. Activation was observed in 7 out of 17 of the adjacent genes detected. Genes located up to 8.2 kb away from the enhancer sequence were activated. One of the seven activated genes was located close to the left‐border sequence of the T‐DNA, having an estimated distance of 5.7 kb from the enhancer. Surprisingly, one gene, the first ATG of which is located 12 kb away from the enhancer, showed reduced mRNA accumulation in the tagged line. Application of the database generated to Arabidopsis functional genomics research is discussed. The sequence database of the 1172 loci from the AT1P plants is available (http://pfgweb.gsc.riken.go.jp/index.html).
ERECTA, an LRR receptor‐like kinase protein controlling development pleiotropically affects resistance to bacterial wilt
Authors: Godiard Laurence , Sauviac Laurent , Torii Keiko U. , Grenon Olivier , Mangin Brigitte , Grimsley Nigel H. , Marco Yves
Published: October 2003

Bacterial wilt, one of the most devastating bacterial diseases of plants worldwide, is caused by Ralstonia solanacearum and affects many important crop species. We show that several strains isolated from solanaceous crops in Europe are pathogenic in different accessions of Arabidopsis thaliana. One of these strains, 14.25, causes wilting symptoms in A. thaliana accession Landsberg erecta (Ler) and no apparent symptoms in accession Columbia (Col‐0). Disease development and bacterial multiplication in the susceptible Ler accession depend on functional hypersensitive response and pathogenicity (hrp) genes, key elements for bacterial pathogenicity. Genetic analysis using Ler × Col‐0 recombinant inbred lines showed that resistance is governed by at least three loci: QRS1 (Quantitative Resistance to R. solanacearum) and QRS2 on chromosome 2, and QRS3 on chromosome 5. These loci explain about 90% of the resistance carried by the Col‐0 accession. The ERECTA gene, which encodes a leucine‐rich repeat receptor‐like kinase (LRR‐RLK) and affects development of aerial organs, is dimorphic in our population and lies close to QRS1. Susceptible Ler plants transformed with a wild‐type ERECTA gene, and the LER line showed increased disease resistance to R. solanacearum as indicated by reduced wilt symptoms and impaired bacterial growth, suggesting unexpected cross‐talk between resistance and developmental pathways.
Energy status and its control on embryogenesis of legumes: ATP distribution within Vicia faba embryos is developmentally regulated and correlated with photosynthetic capacity
Authors: Borisjuk Ljudmilla , Rolletschek Hardy , Walenta Stefan , Panitz Reinhard , Wobus Ulrich , Weber Hans
Published: October 2003

To analyse the energy status of Vicia faba embryos in relation to differentiation processes, we measured ATP concentrations directly in cryosections using a quantitative bioluminescence‐based imaging technique. This method provides a quantitative picture of the ATP distribution close to the in vivo situation. ATP concentrations were always highest within the axis. In pre‐storage cotyledons, the level was low, but it increased strongly in the course of further development, starting from the abaxial region of cotyledons and moving towards the interior. Greening pattern, chlorophyll distribution and photosynthetic O2 production within embryos temporally and spatially corresponded to the ATP distribution, implicating that the overall increase of the energy state is associated to the greening process. ATP patterns were associated to the photosynthetic capacity of the embryo. The general distribution pattern as well as the steady state levels of ATP were developmentally regulated and did not change upon dark/light conditions. The major storage protein legumin started to accumulate in abaxial regions with high ATP, whereas starch localized in regions with relatively lower ATP levels. This suggests a role of the energy state in the partitioning of assimilates into the different storage‐product classes. Highest biosynthetic rates occurred when cotyledons became fully green and contained high ATP levels, implicating that a photoheterotrophic state was required to ensure high fluxes. Based on these data, we propose a model for the role of embryonic photosynthesis to improve the energy status of the embryo.
Engineering photoassimilate partitioning in tobacco plants improves growth and productivity and provides pathogen resistance
Authors: Murillo Isabel , Roca Ramón , Bortolotti Cristina , Segundo Blanca San
Published: October 2003

Expression of pathogenesis‐related (PR) genes is part of the plant's natural defense response against pathogen attack. To study the in vivo role and function of the maize PRms protein, tobacco plants were transformed with the PRms cDNA under the control of the CaMV35S promoter. Transgenic tobacco plants grow faster and yield more leaf and seed biomass. By using immunoelectron microscopy, we found that PRms is associated with plasmodesmata in leaves of transgenic tobacco plants. Furthermore, we found that activation of sucrose efflux from photosynthetically active leaves and accumulation of higher levels of sucrose in leaf tissues are characteristic features of PRms tobacco plants. This, in turn, results in the constitutive expression of endogenous tobacco PR genes and resistance to phytopathogens. The expression of multiple plant defense genes can then be achieved by using a single transgene. These data provide a new approach for engineering disease‐resistant plants while simultaneously improving plant yield and productivity through the modification of photoassimilate partitioning.
Genetic evidence that expression of NahG modifies defence pathways independent of salicylic acid biosynthesis in the Arabidopsis–Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato interaction
Authors: Heck Silvia , Grau Theres , Buchala Antony , Métraux Jean‐Pierre , Nawrath Christiane
Published: October 2003

The salicylic acid (SA)‐induction deficient (sid) mutants of Arabidopsis, eds5 and sid2 accumulate normal amounts of camalexin after inoculation with Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (Pst), while transgenic NahG plants expressing an SA hydroxylase that degrades SA have reduced levels of camalexin and exhibit a higher susceptibility to different pathogens compared to the sid mutants. SID2 encodes an isochorismate synthase necessary for the synthesis of SA. NahG was shown to act epistatically to the sid mutant phenotype regarding accumulation of camalexin after inoculation with Pst in eds5NahG and sid2NahG plants. The effect of the pad4 mutation on the sid mutant phenotype was furthermore tested in eds5pad4 and sid2pad4 double mutants, and it was demonstrated that PAD4 acts epistatically to EDS5 and SID2 regarding the production of camalexin after inoculation with Pst. NahG plants and pad4 mutants were also found to produce less ethylene (ET) after infection with Pst in comparison to the wild type (WT) and sid mutants. Both PAD4 and NahG acted epistatically to SID regarding the Pst‐dependent production of ET that was found to be necessary for the accumulation of camalexin. Early production of jasmonic acid (JA) 12 h after inoculation with Pst/avrRpt2 was absent in all plants expressing NahG compared to the other mutants tested here. These genetic studies unravel pleiotropic changes in defence signalling of NahG plants that are unlikely to result from their low SA content. This adds unexpected difficulties in the interpretation of earlier findings based solely on NahG plants.
Molecular cloning and characterization of a sodium‐pump ATPase of the moss Physcomitrella patens
Authors: Benito Begoña , Rodríguez‐Navarro Alonso
Published: October 2003

Physcomitrella patens grew slowly at 600 mm Na+, pH 6.0, affected by the low water potential but without signs of suffering Na+ toxicity. At pH 8.0, tolerance seemed to be lower but it grew at 200 mm Na+, again without signs of Na+ toxicity. The resistance of Physcomitrella cells to the toxic effects of Na+ can be accounted for by their capacity to keep high K+:Na+ ratios and to extrude Na+ by a system that is not dependent on ΔpH. Physcomitrella expresses two P‐type ATPases similar in sequence to fungal ENA‐type Na+‐ATPases. A functional study in yeast demonstrated that one of these ATPases, PpENA1, is an Na+‐pump. We also found that P. patens has a plant‐type SOS1 Na+/H+ antiporter. We discuss that Na+‐ATPases existed in early land plants but that they were lost during the evolution of bryophytes to flowering plants.
A dwarf mutant strain of Pharbitis nil, Uzukobito (kobito), has defective brassinosteroid biosynthesis
Authors: Suzuki Yoshihito , Saso Kazuyuki , Fujioka Shozo , Yoshida Shigeo , Nitasaka Eiji , Nagata Shinji , Nagasawa Hiromichi , Takatsuto Suguru , Yamaguchi Isomaro
Published: October 2003

Japanese morning glory (Pharbitis nil) is a model plant characterized by a large stock of spontaneous mutants. The recessive mutant Uzukobito shows strong dwarfism with dark‐green rugose leaves. The phenotype was rescued by the application of brassinolide, a bioactive brassinosteroid (BR), indicating that Uzukobito was a BR‐deficient mutant. A detailed analysis of the endogenous BR levels in Uzukobito and its parental wild‐type plant showed that Uzukobito had a lower level of BRs downstream of (24R)‐24‐methyl‐5α‐cholestan‐3‐one and (22S, 24R)‐22‐hydroxy‐24‐methyl‐5α‐cholestan‐3‐one than those in wild‐type plants, while their immediate precursors (24R)‐24‐methylcholest‐4‐en‐3‐one and (22S, 24R)‐22‐hydroxy‐24‐methylcholest‐4‐en‐3‐one accumulated relatively more in Uzukobito. These results indicate that Uzukobito had a defect in the conversion of (24R)‐24‐methylcholest‐4‐en‐3‐one and (22S, 24R)‐22‐hydroxy‐24‐methylcholest‐4‐en‐3‐one to their 5α‐reduced forms, which is catalyzed by de‐etiolated2 (DET2) in Arabidopsis. The P. nil ortholog of the DET2 gene (PnDET2) was cloned and shown to have the greatest similarity to DET2 among all the putative genes in Arabidopsis. Uzukobito had one amino acid substitution from Glu62 to Val62 in the deduced amino acid sequence of PnDET2. Recombinant PnDET2 expressed in COS‐7 cells was found to be a functional steroid 5α‐reductase (S5αR) converting (24R)‐24‐methylcholest‐4‐en‐3‐one to (24R)‐24‐methyl‐5α‐cholestan‐3‐one, while PnDET2 with the mutation did not show any catalytic activity. This shows that a plant S5αR can convert an intrinsic substrate. All these results clearly demonstrate that the Uzukobito phenotype resulted from a mutation on PnDET2, and a morphological mutant has been characterized at the molecular level among a large stock of P. nil mutants.
Characterization of two functional phosphoenolpyruvate/phosphate translocator (PPT) genes in Arabidopsis–AtPPT1 may be involved in the provision of signals for correct mesophyll development
Authors: Knappe Silke , Löttgert Tanja , Schneider Anja , Voll Lars , Flügge Ulf‐Ingo , Fischer Karsten
Published: October 2003

The Arabidopsis thaliana chlorophyll a/b‐binding protein underexpressed 1 (cue1) mutant shows a reticulate leaf phenotype and is defective in a plastidic phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP)/phosphate translocator (AtPPT1). A functional AtPPT1 providing plastids with PEP for the shikimate pathway is therefore essential for correct leaf development. The Arabidopsis genome contains a second PPT gene, AtPPT2. Both transporters share similar substrate specificities and are therefore able to transport PEP into plastids. The cue1 phenotype could partially be complemented by ectopic expression of AtPPT2 but obviously not by the endogeneous AtPPT2. Both genes are differentially expressed in most tissues: AtPPT1 is mainly expressed in the vasculature of leaves and roots, especially in xylem parenchyma cells, but not in leaf mesophyll cells, whereas AtPPT2 is expressed ubiquitously in leaves, but not in roots. The expression profiles are corroborated by tissue‐specific transport data. As AtPPT1 expression is absent in mesophyll cells that are severely affected in the cue1 mutant, we propose that the vasculature‐located AtPPT1 is involved in the generation of phenylpropanoid metabolism‐derived signal molecules that trigger development in interveinal leaf regions. This signal probably originates from the root vasculature where only AtPPT1, but not AtPPT2, is present.
Testing the ‘assortative mating’ hypothesis on a variation maintenance mechanism for flowering time within a forest‐floor population of Primula sieboldii
Authors: OKAYAMA YASUSHI , NAGAI MIHOKO , WASHITANI IZUMI
Published: October 2003

Flowering phenology and allozyme variation were studied to test the existence of positive assortative mating for flowering time in a natural population of Primula sieboldii E. Morren, a heterostylous perennial herb, consisting of approximately 180 genets in a deciduous forest. There was significant variation in flowering date among genets, but not between heterostylous morphs. The temporal order of the flowering time of genets was fairly constant for the two years of the study. The spatial heterogeneity of light availability at the study site was small during the flowering season of the species. In order to analyze the extent of genetic differentiation between early‐ and late‐flowering genet groups, allozyme diversities were analyzed with 10 loci. The GST between the early‐ and late‐flowering groups was not significantly different from zero. Evidence of positive assortative mating for flowering time was not detected. Prolongation of flowering duration due to pollen limitation may be one important factor preventing the genetic differentiation of early‐ and late‐flowering groups by enhancing the overlap of flowering time among genets.
Demographic genetics of the American beech (Fagus grandifolia Ehrh.) III. Genetic substructuring of coastal plain population in Maryland
Authors: KITAMURA KEIKO , MORITA TATSUYOSHI , KUDO HIROSHI , O'NEILL JAY , UTECH FREDERICH H. , WHIGHAM DENNIS F. , KAWANO SHOICHI
Published: October 2003

Spatiotemporal genetic substructurings were investigated in the American beech population of the east‐central coastal plain in Maryland. All trees including seedlings, various sizes of juveniles, and mature trees within the study site (10 × 100 m) were mapped, diameters measured, and leaves collected for allozyme analyses. Eleven polymorphic loci in eight enzyme systems were examined: 6Pgdh2, 6Pgdh3, Acp2, Adh1, Adh2, Fum, Got1, Got3, Lap, Pgi, and Pgm2. A total of 1945 trees were analyzed and 595 multilocus genotypes were detected. Six size‐classes and 10 spatial blocks were discriminated for spatiotemporal analyses. Parameters for genetic variations (heterozygosity, Simpson's index, Shannon‐Weaver's index, and inbreeding coefficient) decreased in larger size‐classes. These genetic parameters fluctuated in spatial blocks of 10 m intervals, in which certain alleles were characteristic of specific blocks. The spatial autocorrelation by Moran's I and coancestry revealed the ranges of genetic relatedness to be only 20–30 m. Multilocus genotype analyses showed that higher genetic variations occur in larger size‐classes and at gap openings where seed shadows for mother trees are overlapped. The relationships among reproductive trees, seedlings and juveniles suggested that the seed dispersal range of the American beech is normally in the range of 30–40 m. The mechanisms of a remarkably high genetic polymorphism maintained in this once artificially disturbed and grazed forest are discussed as related to conservation biology.
Ecological distribution and phenology of an invasive species, Cardamine hirsuta L., and its native counterpart, Cardamine flexuosa With., in central Japan
Authors: YATSU YOSHINORI , KACHI NAOKI , KUDOH HIROSHI
Published: October 2003

Cardamine hirsuta is a European species that was recently introduced into Japan and its wide distribution has been confirmed in the Kanto district. To understand mechanisms of the recent spread of C. hirsuta in Japan, a comparative study of the alien species and its native congeneric species, C. flexuosa, was conducted. Habitat preferences, phenology and seed germination were examined. Cardamine hirsuta and C. flexuosa showed distinctive habitat‐preferences; the former was most common in open habitats created by recent man‐made constructions, and the latter was common in rice paddy fields and surrounding areas. The results indicate that C. flexuosa is a year‐long annual, with a mixed phenology of summer and winter germination and growth. Seed dormancy during summer was relatively weak for C. flexuosa, and some plants that germinated early in summer reproduced during the same summer–autumn period. Plants that germinated in late summer and autumn behaved as winter annuals. In rice paddy fields, C. flexuosa is a winter annual because germination is prevented by submergence during summer. Plants flower during the following spring and complete their life cycle before the fields are flooded for rice cultivation. Cardamine hirsuta showed strong seed dormancy during summer and behaved as a typical winter annual. Seeds of C. hirsuta were intolerant to submergence in water, a condition that breaks seed dormancy of C. flexuosa. The results explain the absence of C. hirsuta from rice paddy fields. It was concluded that the spread of C. hirsuta is attributable to the recent expansion of urban habitats created by human activity and has occurred without direct competition with C. flexuosa. Considering recent urbanization in many areas, it is suggested that C. hirsuta has been spreading rapidly in Japan.
Seasonal development of annual shoots in some terrestrial orchids from Russia and Japan
Authors: TATARENKO IRINA V. , KONDO KATSUHIKO
Published: October 2003

Annual shoots of 46 terrestrial orchid species commonly found in wide ranges of temperate climates in Russia and Japan change their patterns of growth recurrence from the dormancy state, through formation and growth, to the next dormancy state during the course of yearly response to seasonal cycles of environmental conditions. Each of the species has its own strategy in seasonal development of aerial shoots, rhizomes, tubers and roots, and shows seasonal differentiation of shoot morphogenesis at the early stage of new shoot apex formation in accordance with its growth habit, habitat and range size of geographical distribution. Perennial orchids with sympodial growth patterns and primitive life forms are characterized by long duration of shoot and inflorescence development inside the bud. Among the species studied, the orchids that have annually regenerating root‐stem tubers have the shortest duration of root and shoot morphogenesis. The species that have predominant patterns of monopodial growth show variability in duration of lateral shoot growth due to the energy budget of the mother plant. The species which have latitudinally long ranges of distribution from northern colder regions to southern warmer regions tend to take longer for shoot development inside the bud, and aerial shoots have a shorter life‐span in the northern regions than those in the south.
Composite tumor of mucinous cystadenoma and somatostatinoma of the kidney
Authors: TAKASHI MUNEHISA , MATSUYAMA MUTSUSHI , FURUHASHI KENICHI , KODAMA YUKIHIRO , SHINZATO MASANORI , SHAMOTO MIKIHIRO , NAKASHIMA NOBUO
Published: October 2003

Abstract  Approximately 30 cases of carcinoid tumor of the kidney have been reported in the English literature, including three cases found as components of teratomas. Renal composite tumors associated with somatostatinoma have not been described. A 53‐year‐old female presented with an incidentally found right renal cystic lesion. Computed tomography demonstrated a cystic lesion associated with a solid nodule in the right kidney and postcontrast dynamic MRI revealed enhancement of the solid nodule. The patient underwent radical nephrectomy for the kidney lesion and is now well without recurrence 21 months after the operation. From the histopathological findings we diagnosed the cystic lesion as a composite tumor composed of mucinous cystadenoma and carcinoid tumor. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated the majority of cells of in carcinoid portion to be positive for antisomatostatin staining. The present case is the first documented composite tumor of mucinous cystadenoma and somatostatinoma of the kidney.
Reduced‐intensity stem cell transplantation in two cases of metastatic renal cell carcinoma
Authors: AOYAMA YASUTAKA , NAKAMAE HIROHISA , YAMAMURA RYOUSUKE , MAKITA KAORI , SHIMA ETSUKO , OHTA KENSUKE , TAKUBO TAKAYUKI , YAMANE TAKAHISA , SUGIMURA KAZUNOBU , KAWASHIMA HIDEKNORI , NAKATANI TATSUYA , HINO MASAYUKI
Published: October 2003

Abstract  Allogeneic hematopoietic stem‐cell transplantation can induce curative graft‐versus‐leukemia reactions in patients with hematological malignancies. There is also evidence of such an effect in patients with solid tumors. We report two patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma who underwent RIST. In both patients, disease progression was observed 6 months after transplantation. However, one patient had transient symptoms of tumor progression after the occurrence of acute graft‐versus‐host disease, consistent with graft‐versus‐tumor effects.
Large pelvic schwannoma causing bilateral hydronephrosis
Authors: GIRGIN CENGIZ , ÖZKAN UGUR , SEZER AKIF , TUĞYAN NÜKHET
Published: October 2003

Abstract  Schwannoma is a tumor originating from neural sheath schwann cells. We report here a case of benign retroperitoneal schwannoma that caused bilateral ureterohydronephrosis. The retroperitoneal localization in the present case is unusual. The tumor was 21 × 18 × 11 cm in dimension and reached from the prostate to the umbilical level. Even though the patient had bilateral hydronephrosis, the renal function tests results were in the normal range. Complete surgical excision was achieved by anterior laparotomy. Histological and immunohistochemical studies confirmed the diagnosis. At 6 months follow‐up there was no evidence of recurrence and renal function test results were normal.
Unicentric Castleman's disease with leiomyosarcoma: A rare association
Authors: TAKEHARA KOUSUKE , SAKAI HIDEKI , IGAWA TSUKASA , TSURUSAKI TOSHIFUMI , HAYASHI TOMAYOSHI , KANETAKE HIROSHI
Published: October 2003

Abstract  A 54‐year‐old asymptomatic woman was first diagnosed with unicentric Castleman's disease at 51 years of age. The disease was identified incidentally behind the inferior vena cava after a computed tomography (CT) scan. She was followed conservatively and no enlargement of the mass was observed. However, a follow‐up CT scan revealed another solid mass in the left retroperitoneal area. Both tumors were surgically removed in the same session. The retrocaval mass was histologically confirmed to be Castleman's disease of the hyaline vascular type. Histological examination of the left peritoneal mass revealed low‐grade leiomyosarcoma. We present here a case of leiomyosarcoma associated with unicentric Castleman's disease, both of which were localized in the retroperitoneum.
Interstitial pneumonitis induced by bicalutamide and leuprorelin acetate for prostate cancer
Authors: SHIOI KOICHI , YOSHIDA MINORU , SAKAI NAOKI
Published: October 2003

Abstract  Maximal androgen blockade therapy is the standard endocrine treatment for advanced prostate cancer. We report here an unusual case of interstitial pneumonitis induced by bicalutamide and/or leuprorelin acetate treatment for metastatic prostate cancer.
Cost‐effective laparoscopic pyeloplasty: Single center experience
Authors: HEMAL ASHOK KUMAR , GOEL RAJIV , GOEL APUL
Published: October 2003

Objective:  Laparoscopic pyeloplasty (LPP) is a minimally invasive treatment option for ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction. We report here our experience of performing cost‐effective LPP on 24 patients at a single center.

Methods:  Between October 1999 and March 2002, LPP was performed in 24 patients (17 male, seven female; age range 8–51 years) including two patients who had failed previous endourologic treatments. In two patients with concomitant renal stones, laparoscopic pyelolithotomy was also performed. LPP was conducted in a cost‐reductive manner by both transperitoneal (n = 12) and retroperitoneal (n = 12) access. To reduce the cost, an indigenous balloon to create the retroperitoneal space, reusable ports, ordinary polyglactin suture and intracorporeal free‐hand suturing were employed. To reduce operative time, antegrade stenting was also performed in some cases.

Results:  Laparoscopic Anderson–Hynes pyeloplasty was performed in 16, Foley Y–V pyeloplasty in five and Fenger pyeloplasty in three patients. One patient required conversion to open surgery due to tension at the anastomosis site during Anderson–Hynes pyeloplasty. The mean operating time, blood loss, analgesic (pethidine) requirement, duration of drain and hospital stay for the retroperitoneal and transperitoneal groups were 170.3 and 187.6 min, 102.2 and 145.9 mL, 125 and 136.4 mg, 2.1 and 2.5 days, and 3.4 and 4.3 days, respectively. No significant complications were encountered apart from prolonged ileus in three patients in the transperitoneal group. The mean follow‐up period was 10.8 months with a range of 2–24 months. Postoperative renal scan was performed at 3 months in 21 patients, and 1 year in 11 patients. There was evidence of equivocal obstruction in one patient, but there were no obstructions in the remaining patients.

Conclusion:  Although LPP is technically demanding, it is emerging as a viable, minimally invasive alternative to open pyeloplasty for UPJ obstruction with a success rate similar to that of open pyeloplasty. It allows the duplication of open surgery steps (unlike endoscopic procedures), thereby providing durable and sustained results. LPP can also be performed safely, effectively and efficiently in a cost‐efficient manner.
Influence of hypertension on lower urinary tract symptoms in benign prostatic hyperplasia
Authors: SUGAYA KIMIO , KADEKAWA KATSUMI , IKEHARA AKASHI , NAKAYAMA TOMOYUKI , GAKIYA MUNEHISA , NASHIRO FUMIO , GOYA MASATO , HATANO TADASHI , OGAWA YOSHIHIDE
Published: October 2003

Aim:  To clarify the influence of hypertension on lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) we examined the relationship between blood pressure, LUTS, and the effect of terazosin on LUTS in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Methods:  The subjects were patients who had LUTS and BPH. They were treated with terazosin (1 mg, twice‐a‐day) for 12 weeks. Calculation of the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), measurement of blood pressure, and uroflowmetry were performed before and after 12 weeks of therapy. Patients were divided into a normotensive (NT) group and a hypertensive (HT) group at the time of first examination.

Results:  The IPSS for urinary frequency and nocturia in BPH‐HT patients (n = 21; mean age, 71 years) were significantly higher than those in the BPH‐NT patients (n = 21; mean age, 69 years) before the administration of terazosin. The total IPSS the BPH‐HT patients was also significantly higher than that of the BPH‐NT patients. There were no differences of uroflowmetric parameters between the two groups. After 12 weeks of therapy, systolic and diastolic blood pressure decreased in the BPH‐HT patients, but not in the BPH‐NT patients. However, the systolic pressure of the BPH‐HT patients was still significantly higher than that of the BPH‐NT patients. The score for each IPSS parameter decreased in both groups, but the difference of the score between the two groups increased.

Conclusion:  Hypertension may worsen LUTS and may decrease the improvement of symptoms by terazosin.
Use of dexamethasone with mesna for the prevention of ifosfamide‐induced hemorrhagic cystitis
Authors: VIEIRA MILENA MORAIS , BRITO GERLY ANNE CASTRO , BELARMINO‐FILHO JOSÉ NELSON , MACEDO FRANCISCO YURI BULCÃO , NERY ERIK AQUINO , CUNHA FERNANDO QUEIROZ , RIBEIRO RONALDO ALBUQUERQUE
Published: October 2003

Aim:  Hemorrhagic cystitis (HC) is a limiting side‐effect of chemotherapy with ifosfamide (IFS). In the study presented here, we investigated the use of dexamethasone in combination with mesna for the prevention of IFS‐induced HC.

Methods:  Male Wistar rats (150–200 g; 6 rats per group) were treated with saline or mesna 5 min (i.p.) before and 2 and 6 h after (v.o.) administration of IFS. One, two or three doses of mesna were replaced with dexamethasone alone or with dexamethasone plus mesna. Cystitis was evaluated 24 h after its induction by the changes in bladder wet weight and by macroscopic and microscopic analysis.

Results:  The replacement of the last dose or the last two doses of mesna with dexamethasone reduced the increase in bladder wet weight induced by IFS by 84.79% and 89.13%, respectively. In addition, it almost abolished the macroscopic and microscopic alterations induced by IFS. Moreover, the addition of dexamethasone to the last two doses of mesna was more efficient than three doses of mesna alone when evaluated microscopically.

Conclusion:  Dexamethasone in combination with mesna was efficient in blocking IFS‐induced HC. However, the replacement of last two doses of mesna with saline or all of the mesna doses with dexamethasone did not prevent HC.
Urodynamic effects of α1‐blocker tamsulosin on voiding dysfunction in patients with neurogenic bladder
Authors: KAKIZAKI HIDEHIRO , AMEDA KANAME , KOBAYASHI SHINYA , TANAKA HIROSHI , SHIBATA TAKASHI , KOYANAGI TOMOHIKO
Published: October 2003

Backgroud:  The therapeutic role of α‐blockers in the treatment of voiding disorders due to benign prostatic hyperplasia has been extensively examined. To investigate a possible effect of α1‐blocker on urodynamic voiding parameters in patients with neurogenic bladder, we conducted a clinical trial using tamsulosin.

Methods:  Twenty‐four patients (14 men and 10 women) ranging from 24 to 82 years of age (mean age 61 years) with neurogenic bladder were analyzed. Urodynamic studies were performed before and after treatment with 0.4 mg tamsulosin daily for 4 weeks.

Results:  On uroflowmetry, the average flow rate (from 4.6 ± 3.3 to 6.7 ± 3.0 mL/s, P = 0.04), maximum flow rate (from 9.4 ± 6.8 to 14.1 ± 7.0 mL/s, P = 0.016) and residual urine rate (from 46 ± 29 to 32 ± 21%, P = 0.02) improved significantly. In patients with detrusor contraction during voiding, detrusor opening pressure and detrusor pressure at maximum flow decreased significantly from 69.0 ± 36.2 to 49.2 ± 26.4 cmH2O (P = 0.046) and from 66.7 ± 34.6 to 53.6 ± 26.5 cmH2O (P = 0.007), respectively. On the other hand, in patients with detrusor areflexia, vesical opening pressure (from 78.2 ± 23.4 to 61.6 ± 25.2 cmH2O), or vesical pressure at maximum flow (from 68.6 ± 23.2 to 62.9 ± 25.2 cmH2O) did not change significantly after treatment.

Conclusion:  Tamsulosin reduces functional urethral resistance during voiding and improves flow rate in patients with neurogenic bladder. It has more beneficial urodynamic effects in patients with detrusor contraction during voiding than in patients with detrusor areflexia.
Usefulness of tamsulosin hydrochloride and naftopidil in patients with urinary disturbances caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia: A comparative, randomized, two‐drug crossover study
Authors: IKEMOTO ISAO , KIYOTA HIROSHI , OHISHI YUKIHIKO , ABE KAZUHIRO , GOTO HIROKAZU , KISHIMOTO KOUICHI , MIKI KENTA
Published: October 2003

Background:  The aim of the study presented here was to stratify drug therapy for patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) displaying various voiding symptoms.

Methods:  Two different α1‐adrenoceptor antagonists; tamsulosin hydrochloride (Tam) and naftopidil (Naf ), were administered to 96 patients with BPH for 8 weeks in a crossover study.

Results:  With the administration of both drugs, the International Prostate Symptom Score (I‐PSS) significantly decreased and the maximum urinary flow significantly increased. Whereas Naf monotherapy decreased the I‐PSS for storage symptoms, Tam monotherapy decreased the I‐PSS for voiding symptoms. In both the Naf‐to‐Tam and Tam‐to‐Naf groups, crossover was effective when the initial drug was judged subjectively and objectively to have been ineffective. Compliance was acceptable with both drugs.

Conclusion:  Our results show that either Naf or Tam can be used to treat patients on the basis of objective and subjective assessment of voiding symptoms. Our findings should be helpful for patient guidance and treatment of BPH.
c‐Src kinase activation regulates preprotachykinin gene expression and substance P secretion in rat sensory ganglia
Authors: Igwe Orisa J.
Published: October 2003

Increased synthesis of substance P (SP) in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and enhanced axonal transport to and secretion from the primary afferent sensory neurons might enhance pain signalling in the spinal dorsal horn by modifying pronociceptive pathways. IL‐1β increases SP synthesis by enhancing the expression of preprotachykinin (PPT) mRNA encoding for SP and other tachykinins in the DRG. Stimulation of IL‐1 receptor by IL‐1β may induce the phosphorylation of tyrosine residues in many effector proteins through the activation of p60c‐src kinase. The hypothesis that the synthesis of SP in and secretion from the primary sensory ganglia are regulated by the activation of p60c‐src kinase induced by IL‐1β was tested. Pretreatment of DRG neurons in culture with herbimycin A, genistein or PP2, three structurally different nonreceptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors that act by different mechanisms, decreased the kinase activity of p60c‐src induced by the activation of IL‐1 receptor. PP3, a negative control for the Src family of tyrosine kinase inhibitor PP2 had no effect. Herbimycin A and genistein also decreased IL‐1β‐induced expression of PPT mRNA‐encoding transcripts and the levels of SP‐li synthesized in the cells and secreted into the culture medium in a concentration‐dependent manner. SB 203580 [a p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) inhibitor] and PD 98059 (a p44/42 MAPK kinase inhibitor) were ineffective in modulating IL‐1β‐induced SP synthesis and secretion, and p60c‐src kinase activity in DRG neurons. Whereas, IL‐1 receptor antagonist and cycloheximide inhibited IL‐1β‐evoked secretion of SP‐like immunoreactivity (SP‐li), actinomycin D decreased it significantly but did not entirely abolish it. These findings show that phosphorylation of specific protein tyrosine residue(s) following IL‐1 receptor activation might play a key role in IL‐1β signalling to modulate PPT gene expression and SP secretion in sensory neurons. In view of the role of SP as an immunomodulator, these studies provide a new insight into neural‐immune intercommunication in pain regulation in the sensory ganglia through the IL‐1β‐induced p60c‐src activation.
Involvement of Nurr1 in specifying the neurotransmitter identity of ventral midbrain dopaminergic neurons
Authors: Smits Simone M. , Ponnio Tiia , Conneely Orla M. , Burbach J. Peter H. , Smidt Marten P.
Published: October 2003

The mesencephalic dopaminergic (mesDA) system is involved in many brain functions including motor control and motivated behaviour, and is of clinical importance because of its implication in psychiatric disorders and Parkinson's disease. Nurr1, a member of the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily of transcription factors, is essential for establishing the dopaminergic phenotype, because expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), the rate‐limiting enzyme in dopamine synthesis, requires Nurr1. In addition, Nurr1 plays an important role in the maintenance of mesDA neurons. Neonatal Nurr1 knockout mice lack expression of the dopamine transporter (DAT), the vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) andl‐aromatic amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) in addition to TH specifically in mesDA neurons. It is unclear whether the lack of expression of these dopaminergic markers is caused by a maintenance defect or whether the induction of these markers depends on Nurr1 expression. To address this problem, the expression of DAT, VMAT2 and AADC was analysed at embryonic day 12.5 and 14.5. Here we demonstrate that induction of VMAT2 and DAT specifically in mesDA neurons requires Nurr1 expression, whereas AADC expression in mesDA neurons is induced independently of Nurr1 function.
Interleukin 1 beta enhances conditioned fear memory in rats: possible involvement of glucocorticoids
Authors: Song Cai , Phillips Anthony G. , Leonard Brian
Published: October 2003

Central administration of 15 ng interleukin (IL)‐1β in the rat significantly enhanced conditioned fear memory assessed by a passive avoidance task, when retested at 24 and 48 h post‐training. Pain threshold was unaffected by 15 ng IL‐1β administration. IL‐1β treatment also increased serum corticosterone. This increase in serum corticosterone was further enhanced in rats given both IL‐1β and footshock. Furthermore, the glucocorticoid receptor antagonist mifepristone blocked IL‐1β‐induced elevation in corticosterone and also attenuated the enhanced conditioned fear memory. Central administration of IL‐1β significantly increased prostaglandin E2 and decreased the anti‐inflammatory cytokine IL‐10 release from whole blood cultures; therefore this treatment appears to be effective in inducing an inflammatory response in both the periphery and the brain. The present study confirms that IL‐1β can enhance conditioned fear memory, an effect which is correlated with changes in glucocorticoid function. This facilitation of defensive behaviour could reflect adaptive responses which may enhance survival during sickness.
Modulation of olfactory learning in young rats through intrabulbar GABAB receptors
Authors: Okutani Fumino , Zhang Jing‐Ji , Otsuka Tomoko , Yagi Fumio , Kaba Hideto
Published: October 2003

After training with an odour paired with foot shock on postnatal day 11, rat pups show an aversion to the odour in testing on postnatal day 12. The mechanisms underlying this aversive olfactory learning involve disinhibition of mitral/tufted cells in the olfactory bulb by the somatosensory stimulation‐induced activation of centrifugal noradrenergic fibres originating in the locus coeruleus. The activity of mitral/tufted cells is regulated through γ‐aminobutyric acidA (GABAA) receptors in the external plexiform layer and GABAB receptors in the glomerular layer. We have previously presented that aversive olfactory learning in young rats is modulated through GABAA receptors in the olfactory bulb. In the present study we examined the consequence of manipulating GABAB receptors in the olfactory bulb during training. Baclofen, a GABAB receptor agonist when infused into the olfactory bulb during the pairing of an odour with foot shock, prevented aversive olfactory learning in a dose‐dependent manner. Infusion of saclofen, a GABAB receptor antagonist, during training with a citral odour in the absence of foot shock produced aversive responses not only to the odour, but also to strange odours (benzaldehyde and vanillin) not previously presented. Such olfactory aversions were observed even if saclofen was infused without odour exposure. These results suggest that olfactory learning in young rats is modulated through GABAB receptors in the olfactory bulb.
VIP‐containing deep short‐axon cells of the olfactory bulb innervate interneurons different from granule cells
Authors: Gracia‐Llanes Francisco Javier , Crespo Carlos , Blasco‐Ibáñez José Miguel , Marqués‐Marí Ana Isabel , Martínez‐Guijarro Francisco José
Published: October 2003

This study investigates the targets of the population of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP)‐containing deep short‐axon cells of the rat olfactory bulb (OB), combining single‐ and double‐immunocytochemical approaches under light and electron microscopy. It has been assumed that deep short‐axon cells innervate granule cells in the mammalian OB, but their synaptic connectivity has not been demonstrated to date. Our results indicate that, instead of the accepted scheme of the bulbar circuitry, VIP‐containing deep short‐axon cells are γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic interneurons specialized in the selective innervation of other GABAergic deep short‐axon cells. Their axons contact with the perisomatic region and the dendritic portions of subsets of deep short‐axon cells that contain VIP, calbindin D‐28k and neuropeptide Y. Electron microscopy reveals axo‐somatic and axo‐dendritic symmetrical synapses from VIP‐containing boutons. Taken altogether, our data show that the VIP‐containing deep short‐axon cells of the rat OB form an interneuronal network that modulates the function of other interneurons different from granule cells. They might be involved indirectly in the inhibition or disinhibition of principal cells or might participate in the generation of oscillatory activity and in the synchronization of populations of interneurons and, then, of principal cells. Present data demonstrate that modulation of the OB by local circuits is more complex than the simple inhibition from periglomerular cells and granule cells, and remark the importance of considering the contribution of other classes of GABAergic interneurons different from periglomerular cells and granule cells to the bulbar circuitry.
Cannabinoids inhibit the release of [3H]glutamate from rodent hippocampal synaptosomes via a novel CB1 receptor‐independent action
Authors: Köfalvi Attila , Vizi E. Sylvester , Ledent Catherine , Sperlágh Beáta
Published: October 2003

In this study we investigated the effect of cannabinoids on [3H]glutamate release from hippocampal synaptosomes of rat and CB1‐null mutant mouse. In the rat, cannabinoid receptor agonists, i.e. CP55,940 (EC50, 0.84 μm), WIN55,212‐2 (EC50, 3.47 μm), ACEA (EC50, 17.8 μm), and R‐(+)‐methanandamide (EC50, 19.8 μm) concentration‐dependently inhibited the 25‐mm‐K+ depolarization‐evoked release of [3H]glutamate and, among them, WIN55,212‐2 displayed the greatest efficacy. The CB1 receptor antagonists SR141716A (1–5 μm) and AM251 (1 μm) and the VR1 vanilloid receptor antagonist capsazepine (10 μm) did not antagonize the effect of the agonists. SR141716A by itself attenuated the evoked [3H]glutamate release. WIN55,212‐2 inhibited the release of [3H]glutamate in \mathrm{CB}^{\,‐/‐\,}_{1} mice as well. These data demonstrate that the action of cannabinoids on glutamate release in the hippocampus is pharmacologically distinct and independent from the cloned CB1 receptor.
Developmental study of dendritic bundles in layer 1 of the rat granular retrosplenial cortex with special reference to a cell adhesion molecule, OCAM
Authors: Ichinohe Noritaka , Yoshihara Yoshihiro , Hashikawa Tsutomu , Rockland Kathleen S.
Published: October 2003

In the granular retrosplenial cortex (GRS) of adult rats, callosally projecting pyramidal neurons in layer 2 form dendritic bundles, 30–100 µm wide, in layer 1. The distinctness of these bundles makes the GRS an attractive model system for investigating the developmental, microcircuitry, and basic organizational features related to dendritic modularity. In this report, we investigate the developmental time course of the dendritic bundles, visualized by immunohistochemistry for microtubule‐associated protein 2 (MAP2) and glutamate receptor subunits 2/3 (GluR2/3). Bundles in layer 1 are apparent as early as postnatal day 5, first with GluR2/3 and then, from postnatal day 14, with MAP2. As a step toward understanding the mechanisms of dendritic aggregation, we further investigated the ontogeny of expression of the cell adhesion molecule OCAM. OCAM exhibits a patchy distribution in layer 1 from postnatal day 3 to adult, and the regions of weak OCAM immunoreactivity selectively correspond to the dendritic bundles (in both GluR2/3 and MAP2). The periodic geometry of OCAM‐immunoreactive regions, the time course of their appearance and the distinct localization complementary to the bundles support the possibility that this molecule is one contributor to the establishment and maintenance of dendritic modules. The interdigitating relationship between regions of high OCAM immunoreactivity and the dendritic bundles in layer 1 suggests that OCAM may have a repellent influence on the formation of these bundles.