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During a survey on the arachnid fauna in the Central Brazilian Cerrado, Goiás State, a new species of the genus Cheiridium Menge, 1855, was found. This specimen represents the third record of this genus in Brazil, and it is described as a new species, Cheiridium piracanjubae sp. n. The species represents an important record for a biome considered a biodiversity hotspot, but with a still poorly known arachnid fauna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contextualization: Vochysia lehmannii is a native forest species of ecological importance in the eastern savannas of Colombia, used for ornamental, timber, food, and medicinal purposes. Knowledge gap: Its population and distribution are in progressive decline; however, it is not included in reforestation programs due to the lack of scientific knowledge about its germination, particularly about the synchrony of germination and environmental factors that influence it. Purpose: In this work, pre-germinative treatments with elements from the region are evaluated to identify which achieves the highest percentage of germination in a synchronous manner. Methodology: An experimental design with two factors: substrate and pre-germination treatments were established in the rural zone La Peral, Municipality of Paz de Ariporo, Casanare, Colombia. Black soil and river sand were used as substrates, and sanding, cutting and immersion in hot water were used as pre-germinative treatments. Results and conclusions: The treatment that obtained the highest germination percentage and the shortest dormancy time was the fertilized soil with seed cut, having a result of 80 % and 7 days respectively, with significant differences (P < 0.01) from the other treatments; however, asynchrony in germination persists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise: To further advance the understanding of the species‐rich, economically and ecologically important angiosperm order Myrtales in the rosid clade, comprising nine families, approximately 400 genera and almost 14,000 species occurring on all continents (except Antarctica), we tested the Angiosperms353 probe kit. Methods: We combined high‐throughput sequencing and target enrichment with the Angiosperms353 probe kit to evaluate a sample of 485 species across 305 genera (76% of all genera in the order). Results: Results provide the most comprehensive phylogenetic hypothesis for the order to date. Relationships at all ranks, such as the relationship of the early‐diverging families, often reflect previous studies, but gene conflict is evident, and relationships previously found to be uncertain often remain so. Technical considerations for processing HTS data are also discussed. Conclusions: High‐throughput sequencing and the Angiosperms353 probe kit are powerful tools for phylogenomic analysis, but better understanding of the genetic data available is required to identify genes and gene trees that account for likely incomplete lineage sorting and/or hybridization events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Cerrado woody species are divided into a small group of aluminum (Al)-accumulating species and the rest of the woody species. Both groups grow well on acidic and Al-rich soils. We found a Cerrado remnant growing on a calcareous soil with high calcium (Ca) and low Al saturations (m%). We checked whether Al deposition differs between leaf veins and leaf blade, and predicted that plants grown on the acidic soil store more Al than those grown on the calcareous soil. Methods: Adult plants of Qualea grandiflora and Q. parviflora, two Al-accumulators, were found in this area, and we compared leaf Ca and Al concentrations with those of the same species growing on a dystrophic Cerrado soil. Results: Leaf Ca concentration reflected differences between the soil types, and Ca was more accumulated in leaf veins. However, Al accumulation was independent of m%, and it was more deposited in the leaf blade of both species, which was confirmed by hystochemical reactions and X-ray spectra in SEM analysis (EDS). Conclusions: The leaf tissue to which Al is preferentially allocated in the leaf blade could not be distinguished. Granules in epidermal cells exhibiting high Al EDS peaks suggest an important allocation for this metal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cerrado is a large savanna in central Brazil, which extends north to the Amazon Forest and the caatinga (xeric vegetation) and includes disjunct areas in both of those biomes. Cerrado plant diversification is understudied, especially in disjunct areas and in peripheral areas bordering other biomes. Here we investigated the effects of Quaternary climatic fluctuations on the distribution, genetic diversity and divergence of two closely related species, Qualea multiflora and Qualea parviflora. Both species are widely distributed in the cerrado, including disjunct and peripheral areas. We sequenced plastid DNA from individuals of both species across their distributions, including core, disjunct and peripheral areas of the cerrado. Both species showed similar responses to Quaternary climatic fluctuations with range retractions during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). Phylogeographic analyses and ecological niche modelling revealed a large historical glacial refugium across central Brazil and multiple refugia in peripheral areas of the south-west, north-west (bordering the Amazon) and north-east (in transition with the caatinga). The genetic diversity, diversification and geographical structuring of Q. multiflora and Q. parviflora were mainly shaped by Pleistocene climatic fluctuations. The presence of several refugia at the Amazon Forest boundary suggests that savanna vegetation could have covered parts of the south-western Amazon during the LGM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aqueous extract of macerated Vochysia rufa stem bark has been commonly used in the treatment of diabetes. Therefore, we evaluated the antihyperglycemic and antioxidant effects of an extract of V. rufa on the pancreata of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Animals received one of the following treatments daily by oral gavage: water (diabetic-control), V. rufa extract (diabetic-V. rufa), or glibenclamide (diabetic-GBD). Total antioxidant capacity; levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, reduced glutathione, and sulfhydryls; and superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities were measured in the pancreas. Biochemical analysis of serum total cholesterol and fractions, triglycerides, creatinine, urea, acid uric, ALP, γ-GT, AST, and ALT was performed, and pancreatic β-cells positive for insulin were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Rats treated with extract exhibited a decrease in fasting blood glucose compared with levels in diabetic control rats. GPx activity and sulfhydryl levels were significantly lower in diabetic-V. rufa rats compared with those of diabetic-control rats. V. rufa extract acted to normalize the biochemical alterations found in diabetic rats (diabetic-controls), as demonstrated by increases in urea, HDL, ALP, AST, and ALT. Reduction in blood glucose was independent of an increase in insulin. The V. rufa extract was found to be composed of free sugars (inositol, galactose, glucose, mannose, sucrose, arabinose, and ribose) as the main metabolites. Thus, aqueous extract of the stem bark of V. rufa is capable of reducing blood glucose, resulting in an antioxidant effect on the pancreatic tissue of STZ-diabetic rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Acidic soil occupies 30% of the world's ice-free land, and exchangeable aluminum (Al) availability increases under these conditions, being toxic to many plant species. However, some plants accumulate Al without damage to their metabolism. Vochysia tucanorum is an Al-accumulating species endemic to the cerrado vegetation with acidic soils in South America. Here, we predict that it is a calcifuge species. Methods: We assessed macro and micronutrient concentrations as well as Al accumulation, plant height and root length of potted plants grown on acidic and calcareous soil for 60 days. A LC-MS-based metabolite fingerprinting of plants on both conditions was also performed. Results: Plants grown on acidic soil showed higher biomass and Al concentration in roots and shoots than those grown on calcareous soil. Despite the higher concentration of macronutrients on plants grown on calcareous soil, micronutrients concentration was similar between plants grown on these soils. Plants grown on the calcareous soil showed necrotic leaves. The metabolite fingerprinting indicated significant changes in the metabolism of phenolics and organic acids. Conclusions: Due to the high Al accumulation in plants grown on acidic soil, and their inability to survive in calcareous soil, we conclude that V. tucanorum is an Al-accumulating species with calcifuge behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Bothrops snakes are responsible for more than 70 % of snakebites every year in Brazil and their venoms cause severe local and systemic damages. The pharmacological properties of medicinal plants have been widely investigated in order to discover new alternative treatments for different classes of diseases including neglected tropical diseases as envenomation by snakebites. In this work, we have investigated the ability of Vochysia haenkeana stem barks extract (VhE) to neutralize the neuromuscular effects caused by Bothropstoxin-I (BthTX-I), the major phospholipase A2 (PLA2) myotoxin from B. jararacussu venom. Methods: The biological compounds of VhE were analysed under thin layer chromatography (TLC) and its neutralizing ability against BthTX-I was assessed through twitch-tension recordings and histological analysis in mouse phrenic nerve-diaphragm (PND) preparations. The antimicrobial activity of VhE was assessed against S. aureus, E. coli and P. aeruginosa strains. The aggregation activity of VhE was analysed under protein precipitation assay. Results: VhE showed the presence of phenolic compound visualized by blue trace under TLC. VhE abolished the neuromuscular blockade caused by BthTX-I applying the pre-toxin incubation treatment and partially neutralized the BthTX-I action under post-toxin incubation treatment; VhE contributed slightly to decrease the myotoxicity induced by BthTX-I. The neutralizing mechanism of VhE may be related to protein aggregation. VhE showed no antimicrobial activity. Conclusion: V. haenkeana extract which has no antimicrobial activity exhibited neutralizing ability against the neuromuscular blockade caused by BthTX-I and also contributed to decrease its myotoxicity. Protein aggregation involving phenolic compounds may be related in these protective effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted in one region of a Seasonal Semideciduous Forest located in Tapurah (Mato Grosso State, Brazil) with the aim of studying its floristic and structural composition. The fixed area method was applied to 10 × 250 m clusters, allocating and measuring five clusters with five subunits of 500 m? each. Species with a diameter at breast height greater than or equal to 10 cm were considered, and the sample sufficiency of the floristic survey was verified by a species accumulation curve. The similarities between the sample subunits were calculated by the Jaccard Similarity Index, and the species diversity with the Shannon Diversity Index and Pielou Evenness Index. The horizontal vegetation structure was characterized by density, frequency, dominance and the values of ecological importance, and diametric distribution were assessed by the Spiegel procedure. The families Vochysiaceae, Fabaceae and Sapindaceae were highly represented, and Qualea paraensis, Aspidosperma discolor and Matayba arborescens were the most important species. A high diversity and low ecological dominance were found, and the diametric structure of the trees presented a negative exponential distribution. In general, the structure, floristic composition and richness of vegetation correspond to a forest with stable and autoregenerative community after selective logging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stem radius measurements can vary over the short and medium-term in relation to changes in certain environmental parameters, providing useful information about the impacts of climate variation on tree physiology and growth processes. Here, use a variety of approaches to identify the main environmental variables that influence annual stem water dynamics in the tree Vochysia divergens in a seasonally flooded forest in Northwest Pantanal, Brazil. The circadian stem cycle and diel phases of stem radius (contraction, recovery and increment) was quantified over two growth seasons (2013–2015) using high resolution dendrometer measurements. Our results demonstrate that stem radial variation is strongly linked to water availability which, in turn, is significantly associated with soil water content (SWC) and actual vapor pressure ( e a ). Our data suggest that the duration of contraction and recovery phases are related to SWC, whereas the increment phase is more influenced by the phenological cycle of the tree. The contraction phase has a limiting association with high vapor pressure deficit (VPD) (decoupled from SWC), indicating stomatal regulation. The circadian stem cycle was characterized by monthly fluctuations reflecting atmospheric water demand status. Monthly mean actual vapor pressure ( ea mean ) was strongly associated with annual variation in the amplitude of the circadian stem cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of Erisma Rudge, E. panamense M. L. Kawas., S. Castillo & McPherson, is here described, illustrated, and assigned IUCN conservation status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tormentic acid (TA) is a triterpene isolated from the stem bark of the plant Vochysia divergens and has been reported to exhibit anticancer, anti-inflammatory and anti-atherogenic properties. However, the functions of TA in hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced oxidative stress and inflammation in rat vascular smooth muscle cells (RVSMCs) remain unclear. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate whether TA suppressed H2O2-induced oxidative stress and inflammation in RVSMCs, and to determine its molecular mechanisms. The present study demonstrated that TA inhibited reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, induced H2O2 in RVSMCs, and inhibited H2O2-induced expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and NADPH oxidase (NOX) in RVSMCs. In addition, TA significantly decreased the production of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6) and IL-1β. Furthermore, TA pretreatment prevented nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) subunit p65 phosphorylation and NF-κB inhibitor α (IκBα) degradation induced by H2O2 in RVSMCs. TA is, therefore, suggested to inhibit H2O2-induced oxidative stress and inflammation in RVSMCs via inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway. TA may have potential as a pharmacological agent in the prevention or treatment of atherosclerosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Aluminum (Al) accumulating plants are distributed throughout the world. In the Cerrado, Al-accumulating and non-accumulating species coexist. Therefore, we anatomically/histochemically explore the sites of Al deposits in Al-accumulating species, and we also ask whether Al can be observed in non-accumulating species. Methods: The anatomical patterns of Al storage in leaf tissues of Al-accumulating [ Miconia albicans, M. rubiginosa (Melastomataceae), Qualea grandiflora, and Q. parviflora (Vochysiaceae)] and non-accumulating species [( Styrax ferrugineus and S. camporum (Styracaceae)] were described using different Al indicator dyes: hematoxylin and chrome azurol S (CAS). In addition, Al-specific x-ray spectra from different regions of leaf tissues were measured and analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results: When compared to hematoxylin, it was confirmed by x-ray spectra in SEM that CAS was a more contrasting indicator of Al presence. Silica granules associated to Al were observed on cell walls of non-lignified leaf tissues of Al-accumulating species. However, granules were also found in leaf midribs of S. camporum. Conclusions: The anatomical description of Al accumulation in leaves and the consistent pattern of Al association with cell walls strongly suggest that Al has structural rather than physiological roles in leaves of Cerrado woody plants, and that Al is perhaps isolated from metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Qualea parviflora and Qualea grandiflora (Vochysiaceae), commonly known in Brazil as "pau-terra" and "pau-terrinha," respectively, have been widely used in the treatment of ulcer and gastritis. These therapeutic effects are attributed to various compounds present in the plants, including phenolic compounds such as gallic acid, due to their important antioxidant activity. Objective: The aim of the present study was to validate a high performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD) method for the quantitative determination of gallic acid in the stem bark of Q. parviflora and Q. grandiflora hydroalcoholic extracts. Materials and Methods: The chromatography analysis was successfully achieved on a Dionex column, Acclaim® 120 (250 mm × 4.60 mm, 5 μm) with a gradient elution of water and methanol at a flow rate of 0.8 mL/min and ultraviolet detection at 280 nm. Results: The validation data, including linearity, precision, specificity, accuracy and robustness of this method demonstrated good reliability and sensitivity. Conclusion: The method is able to quantify gallic acid in the stem bark of both species. What is more, the chromatographic peaks showed good resolution and there are also the advantages of easy sample preparation and a short time between each injection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endophytic actinomycetes encompass bacterial groups that are well known for the production of a diverse range of secondary metabolites. Vochysia divergens is a medicinal plant, common in the 'Pantanal' region (Brazil) and was focus of many investigations, but never regarding its community of endophytic symbionts. During a screening program, an endophytic strain isolated from the V. divergens, was investigated for its potential to show biological activity. The strain was characterized as Microbispora sp. LGMB259 by spore morphology and molecular analyze using nucleotide sequence of the 16S rRNA gene. Strain LGMB259 was cultivated in R5A medium producing metabolites with significant antibacterial activity. The strain produced 4 chemically related β-carbolines, and 3 Indoles. Compound 1-vinyl- β-carboline-3-carboxylic acid displayed potent activity against the Gram-positive bacterial strains Micrococcus luteus NRRL B-2618 and Kocuria rosea B-1106, and was highly active against two human cancer cell lines, namely the prostate cancer cell line PC3 and the non-small-cell lung carcinoma cell line A549, with IC values of 9.45 and 24.67 µM, respectively. 1-Vinyl- β-carboline-3-carboxylic acid also showed moderate activity against the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae ATCC204508, as well as the phytopathogenic fungi Phyllosticta citricarpa LGMB06 and Colletotrichum gloeosporioides FDC83. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge about plant defense systems against herbivory is crucial to understanding trophic relationships in terrestrial ecosystems. Distinct defenses may act either alone or in combination during foliar sprouting. In our study, we explored the effect of the three most conspicuous defenses found in the leaves of Qualea multiflora (Vochysiaceae) during foliar sprouting, which are: (1) the presence of trichomes, (2) foliar toughness and (3) activity of extrafloral nectaries (EFNs). In addition, we quantified foliar herbivory at different leaf stages. We determined that the three defenses evaluated vary in effectiveness during leaf development. The number of trichomes was higher during early leaf development, toughness at the end, and the activity of EFNs (biotic defense) during the middle period. Foliar herbivory was similar at different leaf ages. The results indicate that Q . multiflora synchronizes its foliar defenses in order to optimize performance in anti-herbivory protection over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endophytic actinomycetes encompass bacterial groups that are well known for the production of a diverse range of secondary metabolites, including various antibiotics, antitumor, immunosuppressive agents, plant growth hormones, and have capacity of survive inside of plants tissues. Vochysia divergens is a Brazilian medicinal plant common isolated in the Pantanal region, and was focus of many researches, but the community endophytic remains unknown. Therefore, the goals of the present work were to carry out an initial assessment of antimicrobial, antitumor and antioxidant activities of crude extract produced by endophytic actinomycetes isolated from Vochysia divergens. Using 16S sequences, 10 isolates were classified as Microbispora sp. and two isolates were classified as Streptomyces sampsonii. The other two isolates were identified as Micromonospora sp. and are apparently undescribed species. The isolates were able to produce secondary metabolites with antioxidant activity, antitumor activity against of Glioblastoma cell and antimicrobial activity against bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus and the yeast Candida albicans. Taking into consideration the lack of effective medicaments for the treatment of Glioblastoma multiforme, and the increasing number of bacterial strains expressing resistance, the basic research using microorganisms from unexplored environmental showed can be an alternative to discover new secondary metabolites to treat these diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study we perform an inventory of the insect leaf galls of the Parque Nacional das Emas, Goiás State, Brazil. We found 97 gall morphotypes, distributed on 24 botanical families comprising 37 genera and 55 species. The plant taxa that showed the greatest richness of galls were the families Myrtaceae, with 17 morphotypes and Fabaceae with 14, and the genera Myrcia (Myrtaceae) and Qualea (Vochysiaceae) with 10 and eight morphotypes, respectively. The plant species Andira cujabensis Benth. (Fabaceae) and Myrcia guianensis (Aubl.) DC., with four morphotypes each, were the most diverse. We found galling insects belonging to Diptera, Hemiptera and Lepidoptera. The galling insects of family Cecidomyiidae (Diptera) were the most common inducing 38.1% of the gall morphotypes. All recorded gall morphotypes are first records to Parque Nacional das Emas. Among the 55 host plant species listed in the survey, 16 species (20%) have the first report of hosting galls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guaricica (Vochysia bifalcata) is a native Brazilian tree species, present in the secondary vegetation of the Ombrophilous Dense Forest in the States of Paraná, Santa Catarina, São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Minas Gerais. It is of great importance in degraded areas regeneration and for timber production. This research aimed to evaluate the effects of different temperatures (20, 25 and 30 °C) and substrates (paper roll, blotting paper and vermiculite) during the germination of Vochysia bifalcata seeds. We conducted germination tests inside germination chambers under constant illumination. Until the 20th day after the installation, daily evaluations analyzed the following variables: germination percentage, germination speed index, average germination time, and synchronization index. The temperature of 25 °C in blotting paper and vermiculite substrate presented the highest germination (70 and 73%, respectively) and highest germination speed index, but with less synchronism. Therefore, it recommends use of blotting paper and vermiculite as substrates in a temperature of 25 °C for the Vochysia bifalcata germination test. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to isolate and characterize microsatellite markers for Qualea grandiflora and to test their transferability to congeneric species Qualea multiflora and Qualea parviflora . These three species are widespread in the Cerrado, the largest, richest and probably the most threatened tropical savanna in the world. We characterized ten markers in 40 individuals belonging to two populations of Q. grandiflora and eight markers in 20 individuals belonging to one population of Q. multiflora and Q. parviflora . In Q. grandiflora , considering all 40 analyzed individuals, the number of alleles per locus ranged from eight to 21, and the average was 11.60. The mean number of alleles per locus was 8.8 and 7.3 in each population. The observed and expected heterozygosities ( H o and H e ) within populations varied from 0.235 to 0.944 and from 0.225 to 0.932, respectively. In Q. multiflora the number of alleles varied from two to 11 with an average of 5.75; the H o ranged from 0.150 to 0.950, while H e ranged from 0.191 to 0.817. In Q. parviflora , considering the seven polymorphic loci, the number of alleles ranged from two to 13, with an average of 7.5, while H o ranged from 0.211 to 0.944, and H e ranged from 0.193 to 0.906. The polymorphism level of the microsatellite markers here described enable them as powerful tools for future population genetic studies in these species, helping to answer ecological and evolutionary questions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tropical Vochysiaceae includes mainly trees, and also shrubs and subshrubs. Three genera and seven species are present in the Brazilian state of Santa Catarina. The pollen morphology of six species of trees, belonging to three genera of the Vochysiaceae A. St-Hil. family, was studied. Herbaria samples were obtained, processed and treated by standard methods. The pollen grain morphology of Callisthene, Qualea and Vochysia is distinct. Medium sized pollen grains occur in Vochysia species, and small ones in Callisthene and Qualea. Specific characteristics were considered at species level [C. castellanosii H. F. Martins, C. kuhlmannii H. F.Martins, Qualea cordata Spreng var. cordata, Q. cryptantha (Spreng) Warm. var. cryptantha, Vochysia magnifica Warm. and V. tucanorum Mart.]. The presence of a fastigium (vestibulum) and a thin space devoid of nexine fixing the boundary of the apertural area is characteristic of Qualea and Vochysia species only. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Ethnopharmacological relevance: An ethnopharmacological survey indicated that the bark from Qualea parviflora Mart. (Vochysiaceae) could be used to treat gastrointestinal disorders, such as diarrhea and intestinal inflammation. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of a methanolic extract from the bark of Qualea parviflora (QP) in an experimental model of diarrhea and intestinal inflammation induced in rodents. Material and methods: The antidiarrheal and antispasmodic effects of QP were investigated by measuring intestinal motility, diarrhea, and intestinal fluid accumulation in rodents after challenging with a cathartic agent. In addition, the effects of QP on the contractility of the isolated mice-ileum preparation were determined. Acute intestinal inflammation was induced in male Wistar rats by the rectal administration of trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (TNBS) in 50% ethanol (0.25mL). QP was administered orally (for 5 days) prior to the induction of inflammation. The colonic injury and extent of inflammation were assessed by macroscopic damage scores and lesion length. The enhanced colonic mucosal injury, inflammatory response, and oxidative stress were evaluated by myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity; the tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 1β (IL1-β), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels; and the glutathione (GSH) content. Results: Oral treatment with QP (500mg/kg) delayed the onset of diarrhea, reduced the amount of liquid stool, and decreased the severity of the diarrhea and the evacuation index in rodents challenged with castor oil (p<0.01). Additionally, QP (150–500µg/mL) demonstrated effective antispasmodic activity against carbachol-induced contractions of mouse ileum in vitro. Oral treatment (25 and 50mg/kg/day) with QP significantly reduced the intestinal inflammation induced by TNBS in rats (52% and 45%, respectively). Improvement of colonic mucosal injury by treatment with QP was demonstrated by a decrease in MDA levels and an increase in GSH content in colonic tissue. QP also prevented intestinal inflammation as evidenced by reduced cytokine levels (TNF-α and IL1-β) and low MPO activity. Conclusions: The ethnopharmacological usefulness of the bark from Qualea parviflora against diarrhea containing blood and mucus was supported by the observed antidiarrheal, antispasmodic, and intestinal antiinflammatory properties of this medicinal plant. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The chloroform extract of bark of the tropical tree Qualea parvilora (Vochysiaceae) was fractionated by column chromatography on silica gel, yielding triterpenes (lupeol, lupenone, betulin, epi-betulinic acid and friedelin) and a steroid (ß-sitosterol). ß-sitosterol, lupenone and lupeol were also identiied in Q. grandilora and Q. multilora, while friedelin was detected only in Q. Multilora, by means of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The anti-Mycobacterium tuberculosis activity of the chloroform extract and isolated compounds was assayed by MABA and MIC values ranged from 250.0 to 31.2 µg/mL. This study is the irst to investigate the chemistry and antitubercular activity of apolar compounds from Qualea species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Ethnopharmacological relevance: The species Qualea grandiflora and Qualea multiflora, which belong to the Vochysiaceae family, are common in the Brazilian savannah (Cerrado biome), and the local inhabitants use these species to treat external ulcers and gastric diseases and as an anti-inflammatory agent. Studies have demonstrated that these plants contain compounds that exhibit pharmacological activities; however, the risks associated with their consumption are not known. Material and methods: In the present study, the mutagenicity of polar and apolar extracts from Qualea grandiflora and Qualea multiflora were assessed by employing the Ames assay with and without metabolic activation. Additionally, phytochemical analyses (HPLC–ESI-IT-MS, HPLC–UV-PDA and GC–IT-MS) were performed to identify the chemical constituents present in these species, including the evaluation of physico-chemical properties, such as polarity or apolarity of the organic compounds, which are related to each fraction obtained. These studies provide important information regarding the biochemical behaviour of these compounds. Results: All extracts exhibited mutagenicity, inducing frameshift mutations and base substitutions in DNA. Phytochemical analysis identified terpenes, ellagic acid derivatives and phytosteroids. Conclusions: The mutagenicity observed might be due to the presence of pentacyclic triterpenes and polyphenols, which are able to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) and result in the potential to cause DNA damage. The genetic risk identified in this present work shows that special attention should be considered for the use of compounds obtained from these plant species in medicinal treatments. Further studies must be conducted to identify safe therapeutic doses. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this study, the host-plant range of Onciderini beetles was investigated during 4 years in an Atlantic rainforest of southeastern Brazil. Twelve species of Onciderini beetles girdled thirty-six plant species in the study site. In total, 1046 plants were girdled by Onciderini beetles as follows: 44.6% were Vochysiaceae, 15% were Mymosaceae, 12% were Melastomataceae, 9% were Lauraceae, 4% were Anacardiaceae and 15% were distributed among Meliaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Bombacaceae, Fabaceae, Thymelaeaceae, Cecropiaceae, Myrtaceae, Lecythidaceae, and Myrsinaceae. Onciderini beetles did not select hosts randomly. Most of the associations (70%) with host plants were caused by polyphagous beetles and different plant families showed different ratios of polyphagous, oligophagous and monophagous Onciderini in the study site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Pantanal is a large and diverse wetland that spans three South American countries including parts of Brazil, Paraguay, and Bolivia. An invasive tree, Vochysia divergens Pohl (commonly known as Cambara), has been expanding throughout the Pantanal for more than four decades forming monospecific stands. Given the rapid and extensive spread of Cambara, and the potential for woody plant invasion to alter soil organic matter and nutrient stocks, we hypothesized that Cambara invasion would significantly increase soil organic matter and nutrient content. To test this hypothesis we sampled the soil, litter, and vegetation of a monospecific Cambara stand, a grassland (campo) stand in the process of Cambara invasion (transitional), and a campo stand free of Cambara during the dry season in July and August of 2009 and 2010 when stands were free from seasonal flooding. Surface (0-10 cm) soil in sites dominated by Cambara had significantly higher soil organic matter (SOM), P, and cation content, and higher cation exchange capacity (CEC), but soil pH and K+ concentration were less coincident with Cambara presence. The variation of soil characteristics was also significantly higher in the transitional site, indicating that the transition from a grassland- to a Cambara-dominated system significantly increased the spatial variability of soil chemistry. These results indicate that Cambara invasion fundamentally alters the C and nutrient storage of Panatanal soils. Future research will investigate if these results are general for Cambara invasion and address mechanisms of how Cambara invasion affects the nutrient cycling and storage of Pantanal soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Early growth performance of four native and two introduced tree species was studied during six years at 13 sites in the southern region of Costa Rica. Selected study sites represent a wide environmental gradient.The selected species were: Pinus caribaea Morelet var hondurensis (Barret y Golfari) and Gmelina arborea Roxb as the introduced species, and Terminalia amazonia (J.F. Gmelin) Exell, Vochysia ferruginea Mart., Vochysia guatemalensis Donn. Sm. and Hieronyma alchorneoides Fr. Allemao. A study about the distribution of aboveground biomass, nutrients and total carbon content of these young plantations by compartments (branches, stem, bark and leaves) was also conducted. Biomass equations for tree compartments were fitted simultaneously using the data corresponding to 24 trees felled. Total export quantities of nutrient from stem and bark biomass were estimated in order to conduct an evaluation of the potential effect of harvesting these species on soil nutrient reserves. The data presented in this study related to plantation growth, aboveground biomass and nutrient concentration and C content by tree compartment, aboveground biomass equations by tree compartment, soil nutrient reserves, stability indices can be used as a reference for: a) selection of tree species vs site characteristics, b) estimation of nutrient export by stem + bark harvesting, c) planning for a second rotation, c) maintenance of site productivity and d) generate better carbon sequestration estimations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We investigated the pattern of aluminum (Al) accumulation in leaf tissues of native hyperaccumulator Vochysiaceae species Qualea grandiflora , Callisthene major, and Vochysia pyramidalis, from the Brazilian Cerrado. Non-accumulator Sclerolobium paniculatum was used as a control species. We expected a strong compartmentalization of Al in non-active leaf cell compartments such as cell walls and vacuoles in Al-accumulating species and the absence of Al in critical metabolic sites such as the chloroplasts. Plant leaves were harvested in the field and cut in small segments for histological analysis; hematoxylin dye was used for Al localization in tissues. Results of soil analysis of the three sites and the concentration of Al in leaves indicated that there is no direct relationship between Al availability in soils and Al hyperaccumulation among the Vochysiaceae species evaluated. The cross-sections of leaf tissues showed hematoxylin color in the palisade and spongy parenchyma cells (chloroplast) of Q. grandiflora and C. major. The vascular system of Q. grandiflora was not colored, but some cells from the xylem region of C. major were stained. In contrast, the adaxial and abaxial epidermal cells of V. pyramidalis were colored by hematoxylin, as were some cells from the vascular bundle, but color formation was not observed in the cells of palisade parenchyma. Al was not detected in leaves of S. paniculatum. We concluded that, although hyperaccumulation of Al is a common trait in the Vochysiaceae family, the processes of storage and detoxification in leaf tissues differ among the species. Two of the three hyperaccumulator species use chloroplasts as a sink for Al, with no apparent signs of toxicity. Therefore, the physiological role of Al in plant tissues remains to be elucidated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Distribution of parasitic plants is directly linked with the distribution of host species and behavioral patterns of seed dispersers. Psittacanthus robustus (Loranthaceae) is a neotropical hemiparasite that mainly colonizes species of the family Vochysiaceae. Vochysia thyrsoidea is the main host of P. robustus and is commonly found in areas of cerrado rupestre (rocky savanna), an abundant vegetation in our study site. We conducted the study in the ecological park Parque Ecológico Quedas do Rio Bonito (PEQRB), over an area of 2.82ha of cerrado rupestre. The objective of this work was to investigate population structure, parasitic behavior (mistletoe grip height and circumference of host branch), and spatial distribution of Psittacanthus robustus on a population of Vochysia thyrsoidea. We sampled 267 V. thyrsoidea individuals and found that the population had a random distribution pattern. Seventy-nine individuals (29.6% of the sample population) hosted the hemiparasite, to a total of 193 P. robustus individuals. The number of mistletoe individuals per host plant ranged between 1 and 12. The V. thyrsoidea individuals most infested with mistletoes were those reaching greater heights. The correlation between height of host plant and preferred grip height was highly significant, with the preferred grip height being the uppermost portions of host plants. The crown size of P. robustus individuals ranged between 10 and 230cm. The main disperser of P. robustus fruit was found to be swallow-tanager Tersina viridis viridis. Its activities led to a clumped pattern of spatial distribution of the hemiparasite along with higher infestation in larger trees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethnopharmacological relevance: Qualea parviflora Mart. is a medicinal species commonly found in the Brazilian Cerrado biome. Aim of the study: Based on ethnopharmacological data, methanolic extract from Qualea parviflora (QP) bark was evaluated for its antiulcer, analgesic, anti-hemorrhagic, mutagenic and anti-Helicobacter pylori activities. Material and methods: The gastroprotective action of the extract was evaluated in rodent experimental models (HCl/ethanol, ethanol or NSAID). We also evaluated mutagenic effect (Ames assay), anti-Helicobacter pylori, anti-hemorrhagic action, analgesic and inflammatory effects (hot-plate test and carrageenin-induced hind paw edema) of methanolic extract from Qualea parviflora. Results: QP (500mg/kg, p.o.) was able to protect gastric mucosa against HCl/ethanol solution (77%), absolute ethanol (97%), and also against injurious effect of NSAID (36%). When QP was challenged with sulfhydryl depletor compound, the gastroprotective action of extract was abolished. QP treatment was able to maintain the GSH level and show a concentration-dependent inhibition effect on the lipid peroxidation. QP present anti-Helicobacter pylori effect (MIC=75μg/mL), anti-hemorrhagic and antidiarrheal action but not present analgesic or anti-inflammatory effect. Conclusion: methanolic extract from Qualea parviflora had gastroprotective effect related to the increase of gastric mucosa defensive factors such PGE2 levels and maintain the basal gastric glutathione levels. The methanolic extract also showed anti-Helicobacter pylori activity, anti-hemorrhagic effect and antioxidant action, but absence of analgesic, mutagenic and toxic effects, a profile that adds safety to its use. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Prolific fine root growth coupled with small accumulations of dead fine roots indicate rapid rates of fine root production, mortality and decay in young tree plantations in lowland Costa Rica. However, published studies indicate that fine roots decay relatively slowly in tropical forests. To resolve this discrepancy, we used the intact-core technique to quantify first-year decay rates of fine roots in four single-species plantations of native tree species. We tested three hypotheses: first, that fine roots from different tree species would decay at different rates; second, that species having rapid fine root growth rates would also have rapid rates of fine root decay; and third, that differences in fine root decay among species could be explained by fine root chemistry variables previously identified as influencing decay rates. Fine roots in Virola koschnyi plantations decayed very slowly ( k = 0.29 ± 0.15 year−1); those of Vochysia guatemalensis decayed seven times faster ( k = 2.00 ± 0.13 year−1). Decay rates of the remaining two species, Hieronyma alchorneoides and Pentaclethra macroloba, were 1.36 and 1.28 year−1, respectively. We found a positive, marginally significant correlation between fine root decay rates and the relative growth rates of live fine roots ( R = 0.93, n = 4, P = 0.072). There was a highly significant negative correlation between fine root decay and fine root lignin:N ( R = 0.99, P = 0.01), which supports the use of lignin:N as a decay-controlling factor within terrestrial ecosystem models. The decay rates that we observed in this single study location encompassed the entire range of fine root decay rates previously observed in moist tropical forests, and thus suggest great potential for individual tree species to alter belowground organic matter and nutrient dynamics within a biotically rich rainforest environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aim of the study: Vochysia tucanorum is an important medicinal plant used in the Cerrado of Brazil against gastric disorders and this study reveals the pharmacological action of this traditional medicine use. Materials and methods: The methanolic extract (E-MeOH) and buthanolic fraction (Fr-Bu) obtained from V. tucanorum were challenged by different necrotizing agents in rodents. NO-synthase inhibitor (L-NAME) and SH blocker (NEM) were used to evaluate the participation of cytoprotective factors in E-MeOH and Fr-Bu gastroprotection. Antiulcerogenic action of V. tucanorum was evaluated in rats and mice at doses 250, 500 or 1000mg/kg (E-MeOH) and 37.5, 75 or 150mg/kg (Fr-Bu). Results: Both E-MeOH and Fr-Bu present elevated gastroprotective action in all in vivo experimental models, without signs of acute toxicity. The mechanisms involved in the gastroprotective action of E-MeOH and Fr-Bu are related to the antioxidant activity and protection to gastric mucosa NO levels. Phytochemical investigations of Fr-Bu identified different pentacyclic triterpenoids such as betulinic acid, erythrodiol, epi-betulinic acid and mixtures of ursolic acid and oleanolic acid derivatives as the major constituents. The presence of such triterpenoids in Fr-Bu is probably related to the potent gastroprotective action of this medicinal plant species. Conclusion: Effectiveness in gastroprotection and the absence of acute toxicity indicate this species as a promising herbal drug that is in accordance with ethnopharmacological use against gastric disorders. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The polysaccharide (VTh) extracted with water from the gum exudate of the trunk Vochysia thyrsoidea gave a solution of high viscosity and was homogeneous, with M w 92.5×103 and dn/dc =0.212. Partial hydrolysis gave a main chain of →4)-β-d-GlcpA-(1→2)-α-d-Manp-(1→ repeating groups. Since VTh contained 24% GlcA, neither its monosaccharide ratio (GC–MS of alditol acetates) nor methylation results were accurate. It was therefore carbodiimide-reduced to CR3VTh, which contained Ara, Xyl, Man, Gal, and Glc in a molar ratio of 28:4:29:19:25: methylation analysis showed mainly nonreducing end-units of Araf (25%), Arap (8%), and Galp (8%) and side-chain units of 3-O- (6%) and 3,4-di-O-subst. Galp (12%). Main-chain units of Manp were 2,3-di-O-substituted (17%), showing that they were substituted at O-3 by side chains, but there was less side-chain substitution of Glcp units, which were mainly 4-O-substituted (12%). Most Araf units in VTh and CR3VTh were single nonreducing end-units, and were present in groups of α-l-Araf-(1→3)-d-Manp and α-l-Araf-(1→3)-[α-l-Araf-(1→4)]-β-d-Galp-(1→3)-α-d-Manp. Other degradation products derived from VTh agreed with this structure. The degree of side-chain substitution of the same main chain was greatest with the gum exudate polysaccharide of V. tucanorum, and progressively less with those of V. thyrsoidea, and V. lehmannii. High-viscosity aqueous solutions were formed by the gum of V. thyrsoidea, in contrast with those of V. lehmannii and V. tucanorum. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Five new Stenella species were found on native cerrado plants. Stenella euthroxyli-campestris, S. erythroxyli-suberosi and S. erythroxylicola were associated with plant species belonging in the family Erythroxylaceae; S. cyrtopodii was found infecting the rare Cyrtopodium eugenii (Orchidaceae), and S. ocoteae occurred on Ocotea sp. (Lauraceae). Finally Parastenella callisthenis-fasciculatae was collected on a Vochysiaceae (viz. Callisthene fasciculate) endemic to the cerrado. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This study investigates pharmacological activities of crude hydroalcoholic extract and fractions of Qualea grandiflora Mart. leaves employing different experimental models using mice. The treatment with crude hydroalcoholic extract (EH) in a dose of 500mg/kg, i.p. caused: signs of central nervous system depressant action in the Hippocratic screening test, confirmed by the potentiation of sodium pentobarbital sleeping time. Increasing in the latency time of hot plate assay that indicate an analgesic effect; significantly delaying of the onset of clonic PTZ convulsions, increasing in the time for death, suppressing of the tonic PTZ convulsion, and decreasing of severity and number of convulsions. The median lethal dose of EH was 1.321mg/kg. The convulsions induced by PTZ, ethyl ether fraction (300mg/kg, i.p.) was more active in increasing the latency time for first convulsion, moreover, the hexane fraction, at the same dose, was more active in increasing the time for death and/or avoiding the death. Both did not cause disturbance in motor coordination at the dose of 500mg/kg, assessed by rotarod test. These results suggest that the crude extract of leaves of Qualea grandiflora Mart. has a central nervous system depressant action, an analgesic effect and behave as a potential anticonvulsant. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Qualea grandiflora is one of the species widely used in folk medicine to treat gastric ulcers in Cerrado of the central region of Brazil. The hydroalcoholic extract of bark (HE) of Qualea grandiflora was investigated for their ability to prevent and heal lesions in the gastric mucosa. The oral administration of HE exhibited antiulcer activity decreasing the ulcerative index induced by HCl/ethanol solution, indomethacin/bethanechol and stress. In the Shay model, results showed that HE (p.o.) only reduced the severity of gastric lesions without effects on pH, gastric acidity or volume. When given by intraduodenal route, HE changed the pH, but did not modify the other parameters of the gastric juice. These data were in accordance with those obtained when HE was administered orally for 14 days after gastric ulcers were induced by acetic acid in rats. HE presented healing process in subacute gastric ulcer induced by acetic acid in rats. Moreover, histological examinations showed the simple columnar epithelium, lamina propria with simple branched tubular glandules with dilated lumen and large amounts of mucus secretion. Phytochemical investigation of HE led to the detection of terpenes, steroids, saponins, phenolic compounds and tannins in this extract, which may be involved in the observed activity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Xyleborus vochysiae n. sp. (Curculionidae: Scolytinae) is described and illustrated. This newly discovered ambrosia beetle was collected from live trees of Vochysia ferruginea Mart. in wet tropical forests of Costa Rica. The new species does not fit readily into either Ambrosiodmus or Xyleborus, but it is placed in the latter genus on the balance of the evidence; it is not obviously close to any Ambrosiodmus or Xyleborus in Central America. X. vochysiae is extraordinary in three regards: it is the largest Xyleborini found in the Neotropics, it has only been collected from live trees, and it seems to be restricted to only one host species. On a world basis, only five other ambrosia beetles are known that regularly breed in live trees, and no species are known that are as host specific as is X. vochysiae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some of the most interesting but still most contentious disjunct biogeographical distributions involve Southern Hemisphere tropical and warm temperate families. The PHMV clade of Myrtales includes four families (Psiloxylaceae, Heteropyxidaceae, Myrtaceae, and Vochysiaceae) that exhibit a number of these biogeographical patterns. The related Psiloxylaceae and Heteropyxidaceae are small families restricted in distribution to the recent volcanic Mascarene Islands to the east of Madagascar and to southeast Africa, respectively. Myrtaceae are found on three major Gondwanan regions (South America, Australasia, and Africa). Because the New World taxa are almost exclusively fleshy fruited, it is unclear whether the family distribution is a classic Gondwanan vicariance pattern or results from one or more long-distance dispersal events over ocean barriers. The Vochysiaceae represent one of a handful of families with amphi-Atlantic distributions vigorously argued to support both long-distance dispersal over the Atlantic and vicariance of western Gondwanan biota by Atlantic seafloor spreading. Molecular phylogenetic relationships, fossil dating of nodes, and penalized likelihood rate smoothing of maximum likelihood trees were employed for a Myrtaleswide analysis using rbcL and ndhF and an analysis of the PHMV analysis using ndhF and matK. The results indicate that the PHMV differentiated during the late Cretaceous. The African lineage of Vochysiaceae is nested within a South American clade and probably arose via long-distance dispersal in the Oligocene at a time when the Atlantic had already rifted 80 m.yr. at the equatorial region. The African/Mascarene Island families, most closely related to Myrtaceae, differentiated during the late Eocene, with subsequent but recent longdistance dispersal from Africa to the Mascarenes. Myrtaceae show a rapid differentiation of a basal, paraphyletic subf. Leptospermoideae in Australasia. Fleshy-fruited taxa (subf. Myrtoideae) are not monophyletic. Vicariance of a widespread warm temperate Southern Hemisphere distribution is likely in explaining the South American-Australasian disjunction, with subsequent dispersal events between the two and to Africa and the Mediterranean basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent decades, cattle ranchers of the Pantanal of Mato Grosso, Brazil, have pointed to the accelerated spread of several herbaceous and woody plant species that invade natural and artificial pastures (campos). It has been speculated that overgrazing by an increasing number of cattle, lack of grazing in abandoned areas,or large-scale changes in environmental conditions may be the reason for this invasion. This study focuses on ecological and ecophysiological aspects of Vochysia divergens (cambará), a flood-tolerant tree that began spreading in the Pantanal during the last 30 years and is considered a very aggressive invasive plant. The study shows that the spread of cambará can be related to natural multi-years wet periods. During multi-years dry periods the species is reduced by the increasing impact of fires in the Pantanal. This points to the great importance of multi-years climatic events on the vegetation cover of the Pantanal and indicates a very dynamic development in plant communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New hyphomycetes are described in association with leaves of native plants of the family Vochysiaceae, as part of studies of cerrado fungi. Six new species are described belonging to genera Alternaria (A. qualeae sp. nov.), Janetia (J. salvertiae sp. nov.), Passalora (P. qualeae sp. nov.) and Periconiella (P. longispora sp. nov., P. qualeae-grandiflorae sp. nov. and P. campo-grandensis sp. nov.). A key to the species of Periconiella on Qualea is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A conspicuous feature of Vochysiaceae flowers is their single fertile stamen. In some genera, the stamen is in front of a petal, whereas in others it is in front of a sepal. This difference has been attributed to two independent reductions, which implies the stamen is not homologous across the family. The observation that genera with an antesepalous stamen have only one petal, whereas those with an antepetalous stamen have three or five petals, led us to the hypothesis that in all genera the stamen arises in an antepetalous position, but that it is displaced during development in single-petaled taxa. We examined developing buds of five genera using scanning electron microscopy and serial sectioning and conclude that the stamen in all genera is fundamentally antepetalous. The stamen is not displaced. The petal, however, appears to be displaced in some genera. Further, the position of the fertile stamen in Erisma has been misinterpreted. We discuss the evolution of the androecium in this family in a phylogenetic context and consider the significance of symmetry and of loss vs. suppression in the development of Vochysiaceae flowers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vochysiaceae are divided into two tribes on the basis of ovary structure (superior trilocular or inferior unilocular). The superior trilocular ovary has been considered basal in the family, and the term "pseudomonomerous" was used to indicate the presumed evolutionary derivation of the unilocular condition from the trilocular. However, recent evidence that Vochysiaceae are Myrtalean suggests that the superior ovary may be secondarily derived. In addition, published figures cast doubt on the interpretation of the putatively unilocular ovaries. To understand these features, floral ontogeny and anatomy were examined using scanning electron microscopy and serial sectioning. In all taxa examined, the ovary develops in an epigynous fashion, on a concave floral apex, supporting the hypothesis that the superior ovary is secondarily derived. Subsequent to initiation of the ovary, differential growth results in ovaries that are superior, inferior, or partly inferior in different genera. Sections of floral buds of the two unilocular genera, Erisma and Erismadelphus, show aborted locules in the latter but not in the former. The application of the term "pseudomonomerous" to both genera obscures this significant difference. The position of the placenta in the truly unilocular genus varies among species, suggesting a character transformation series from multilocular through intermediates to truly unilocular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distribution of seed fatty acids of 16 species of Vochysiaceae native to Brazil, corresponding to the genera Callisthene, Qualea, Salvertia and Vochysia, and amounting to 57 samples, were studied. The methyl esters of the fatty acids were analyzed by GC–EIMS. For most species, fatty acid patterns are seemingly useful for species characterization. Intraspecific variability of samples of Salvertia grandiflora seems to have geographic significance. With one exception, palmitic and oleic acids predominate in the fatty acids distribution of Qualea and Callisthene. Q. grandiflora possesses exceptional amounts of lauric acid. Relatively high amounts of either C20–C22 (saturated or monounsaturated) or stearic acids characterize Salvertia and Vochysia. UPGMA analysis of fatty acids distribution based on Euclidean distances resulted in a cluster combining Callisthene and all samples of Qualea, except Q. grandiflora. Samples of Vochysia are combined into several clusters. The dendrogram is suggestive of taxonomic relationships, allowing the distinction of taxa down to the sub-sectional level. V. pyramidalis, from section Ciliantha, subsection Ferrugineae, has closer chemical affinities with species of section Vochysiella, subsection Decorticantes. Comparing with monomers of polysaccharide seed cell walls of Vochysiaceae, fatty acid patterns revealed lower intraspecific variability and higher taxonomic resolution. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Anti-inflammatory activity of a methanol extract of the leaves of Vochysia ferruginea Mart. (Vochysiaceae) was determined in the rat paw edema test. At doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg, i.p., the extract reduced edema significantly (p < 0.01) compared with indomethacin (10 mg/kg). It also showed significant dose-dependent analgesic activity (0.3–100 mg/kg) in mice (p < 0.05), compared with acetaminophen (130 mg/kg), and inhibitory activity with cyclooxygenase (COX-1) (72% at 70 mg/ml), compared with indomethacin (2.3 mM). An ulcerogenic effect was observed when the extract was administered to rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine sedimentary rocks of northern Chiapas, near the limits of Tabasco and Veracruz, sampled along the road from Huimanguillo to Presa de Malpaso, at altitudes between 300 and 500 m, are subjected to a palynological and paleoecological study. 663 different microfossils are identified, mostly pollen and spores, in these sedimentary rocks. Present ecological conditions of the sampled area are those of a tropical evergreen forest with Terminalia, Vochysia, Brosimum, Dialium and Manilkara among other trees, and of related communities as palm forest, tropical savanna and Quercus oleoides forest. The studied stratigraphic column embraces Lower Miocene to Middle Miocene; the microfossils found and the palynological spectra show that most pollen grains belong to genera of the family Juglandaceae, mainly of the Engelhardtia-Oreomunnea complex, which is dominant in most of the sediments studied. Also quantitatively important are pollen grains of Picea, Quercus, Pinus and Melastomataceae, as well as spores of Cyatheaceae and Polypodiaceae. High percentages of Engelhardtia-Oreomunnea pollen grains and abundant spores of Cyathea and Alsophila indicate a paleoenvironment dominated mostly by Engelhardtia-Oreomunnea forest, growing in a coastal montane area of relatively cool and very wet climate. A comparative study of modern pollen rains for some warm and temperate zones of Mexico is included, mainly of Engelhardtia-Oreomunnea forests and of other types of vegetation related to the palynoflora found in the analyzed sediments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vochysia bifalcata is a Brazilian native tree commonly used for economic purpose in the reforestation and in the manufacture of products. However, the potential usage of other parts of the plant is usually wasted. Besides, other species of Vochysia are well known for its anti-inflammatory action. In this study we evaluate the possible anti-inflammatory activity of the hydroethanolic extract from the leaves of V. bifalcata in models of mice skin inflammation. Effects of V. bifalcata were evaluated in croton oil-induced acute and chronic skin inflammation. The role of glucocorticoid receptors in the extract effect was assessed by using a glucocorticoid receptor antagonist and by a specific binding assay. Possible adverse effects were evaluated after multiple treatments with the extract in a skin atrophy model. Topical application of V. bifalcata reduced ear edema formation, cell infiltration and interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α levels. In the chronic model, besides edema formation and cell infiltration, the extract inhibited epidermal hyperproliferation and Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen expression. V. bifalcata seems to act by biding to corticoid receptors, however it did not induce corticoid related undesirable effects. Hydroethanolic extract from leaves of V. bifalcata could be an interesting tool in the search for new anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative agents for the treatment of skin disorders. Image 1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

* Premise of the study: Microsatellite primers were developed to investigate genetic diversity and population structure of Qualea grandiflora, a typical species of the Brazilian cerrado. * Methods and Results: Eight microsatellite loci were isolated using an enrichment cloning protocol. These loci were tested on a population of 110 individuals of Q. grandiflora collected from a cerrado fragment in São Paulo State, Brazil. The loci polymorphism ranges from seven to 19 alleles and the average heterozygosity value is 0.568, while the average polymorphic information content is 0.799. * Conclusions: The developed markers were found to be highly polymorphic, indicating their applicability to studies of population genetic diversity in Q. grandiflora. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]