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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]

Abstract Background: Qualea grandiflora (QG) (Vochysiaceae), also known as "pau-ferro", "pau-terra" or "pau-de-tucano", is a very common deciduous tree in the Brazilian Cerrado used in traditional medicine to treat inflammations, ulcers, diarrhea, and infections. There are reports in the scientific literature that demonstrate the medicinal effects of the bark and leaf of the QG. However, studies involving this plant are rather imited. Aim of the study: To perform the phytochemical analysis of the QG hydroalcoholic extract (HAE) of leaves, and to investigate it effects on fibroblast and preosteoblasts. Methods: Phytochemical analysis was done by HPLC-DAD. Murine NIH/3T3 fibroblasts and MC3T3-E1 preosteoblasts cell lines (ATCC) were used for the experiments. Cell viability was assessed by the MTT colorimetric assay and the expression of MMP-14 and HIF-1α by immunofluorescence. Results and conclusion: The following compounds were identified by HPLC-DAD, such as quinic acid, ethyl galate, ellagic acid derivatives as O-methylellagic acid O-galloyl, O-methylellagic acid O-deoxyhexoside, galloyl derivatives, flavonol glycoside as kaempferol-O-deoxyhexoside, quercetin-O-deoxyhexoside, myricetin-O-deoxyhexoside and the pentacyclic triterpene arjunglucoside. Cell viability results demonstrated no cytotoxic effects in the studied concentrations. We found in QG HAE some compounds with therapeutic properties that can increase the expression of MMP-14 and HIF-1α, in fibroblasts and preosteoblasts. These data suggest that QG HAE has an action on these two molecules widely involved in physiological conditions, such as collagen remodeling, bone development and growth and pathological processes as HIF signaling in cancer metastasis.

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 evolutionary processes underlying the high diversity and endemism in the Cerrado, the most extensive Neotropical savanna, remain unclear, including the factors promoting the presence and evolution of savanna enclaves in the Amazon forest. In this study, we investigated the effects of past climate changes on genetic diversity, dynamics of species range and the historical connections between the savanna enclaves and Cerrado core for Qualea grandiflora, a tree species widely distributed in the biome. Totally, 40 populations distributed in the Cerrado core and Amazon savannas were analyzed using chloroplast and nuclear DNA sequences. We used phylogeographic, coalescent and ecological niche modeling approaches. Genetic data revealed a phylogeographic structure shaped by Pleistocene climatic oscillations. An eastern-western split in the Cerrado core was observed. The central portion of the Cerrado core harbored most of the sampled diversity for cpDNA. Ecological niche models predicted the presence of a large historical refuge in this region and multiple small refuges in peripheral areas. Relaxed Random Walk (RRW) models indicated the ancestral population in the north-western border of the central portion of the Cerrado core and cyclical dynamics of colonization related to Pleistocene climatic oscillations. Central and western ancient connections between Cerrado core and Amazonian savannas were observed. No evidence of connections among the Amazonian savannas was detected. Our study highlights the importance of Pleistocene climatic oscillations for structuring the genetic diversity of Q. grandiflora and complex evolutionary history of ecotonal areas in the Cerrado. Our results do not support the recent replacement of a large area in the Amazon forest by savanna vegetation. The Amazonian savannas appear to be fragmented and isolated from each other, evolving independently a long ago.

ABSTRACT The total phenol concentration present in Vochysia divergens Pohl. (Vochysiaceae) leaves in the Pantanal was analyzed. Work was carried out between September/2012 and June/2013 which is made up by the dry season (September/2012), the beginning of the rising water (December/2012), the high water (March/2013) followed by the receding water period (June/2013). For the purpose of the research fifteen trees were selected, five from each sample area. The phenolic content in the leaves was obtained from the samples which were dried, steeped with ethanol: water and centrifuged. The extract was used to determine the concentration of total phenols using the Folin-Ciocalteu spectrometric method. There was no difference among the sampling areas; however the values were different in relation to seasonal periods. The lowest concentration was recorded in the dry season (young leaves) increasing gradually at the beginning of the rising water, with higher levels at the end of high water and receding water season. The highest concentration of phenols occurred during the receding water period (end of the life cycle of V. divergens leaves), followed by high and rising water periods. The increase in phenol concentration is associated with the Pantanal flood cycle, and related to the phenology of the V. divergens leaves.

The evolutionary processes underlying the high diversity and endemism in the Cerrado, the most extensive Neotropical savanna, remain unclear, including the factors promoting the presence and evolution of savanna enclaves in the Amazon forest. In this study, we investigated the effects of past climate changes on genetic diversity, dynamics of species range and the historical connections between the savanna enclaves and Cerrado core for Qualea grandiflora, a tree species widely distributed in the biome. Totally, 40 populations distributed in the Cerrado core and Amazon savannas were analyzed using chloroplast and nuclear DNA sequences. We used phylogeographic, coalescent and ecological niche modeling approaches. Genetic data revealed a phylogeographic structure shaped by Pleistocene climatic oscillations. An eastern-western split in the Cerrado core was observed. The central portion of the Cerrado core harbored most of the sampled diversity for cpDNA. Ecological niche models predicted the presence of a large historical refuge in this region and multiple small refuges in peripheral areas. Relaxed Random Walk (RRW) models indicated the ancestral population in the north-western border of the central portion of the Cerrado core and cyclical dynamics of colonization related to Pleistocene climatic oscillations. Central and western ancient connections between Cerrado core and Amazonian savannas were observed. No evidence of connections among the Amazonian savannas was detected. Our study highlights the importance of Pleistocene climatic oscillations for structuring the genetic diversity of Q. grandiflora and complex evolutionary history of ecotonal areas in the Cerrado. Our results do not support the recent replacement of a large area in the Amazon forest by savanna vegetation. The Amazonian savannas appear to be fragmented and isolated from each other, evolving independently a long ago. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new flavonoid, catechin-3-O-(3"-O-trans-cinnamoyl)-α-rhamnopyranoside, along with known compounds, catechin-3-O-α-rhamnopyranoside, 3-oxo-urs-12-en-28-oic acid, 2,4,6-trimethoxybenzoic acid, 2-butyl-D-fructofuranoside and 1-butyl-D-fructofuranoside, has been isolated from the stem bark of V. thyrsoidea. These compounds were assayed for inhibition of protease activity (cathepsins B and K) and against cancer cell lines. Catechin-3-O-(3"-O-trans-cinnamoyl)-α-rhamnopyranoside showed moderate inhibitory activity (IC50 = 62.02 µM) against cathepsin B while 2-butyl-D-fructofuranoside was the most potent against a strain of CNS (SF-295) and human leukemia (HL-60) with IC50 = 36.80 µM and IC50 = 25.37 µM, respectively.

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]

Endophytic actinomycetes from medicinal plants produce a wide diversity of secondary metabolites (SM). However, to date, the knowledge about endophytes from Brazil remains scarce. Thus, we analyzed the antimicrobial potential of 10 actinomycetes isolated from the medicinal plant Vochysia divergens located in the Pantanal sul-mato-grossense, an unexplored wetland in Brazil. Strainswere classified as belonging to the Aeromicrobium, Actinomadura, Microbacterium, Microbispora, Micrococcus, Sphaerisporangium, Streptomyces, and Williamsia genera, through morphological and 16S rRNA phylogenetic analyzes. A susceptibility analysis demonstrated that the strains were largely resistant to the antibiotics oxacillin and nalidixic acid. Additionally, different culture media (SG and R5A), and temperatures (28 and 36°C) were evaluated to select the best culture conditions to produce the active SM. All conditions were analyzed for active metabolites, and the best antibacterial activity was observed from metabolites produced with SG medium at 36°C. The LGMB491 (close related to Aeromicrobium ponti) extract showed the highest activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), with a MIC of 0.04 mg/mL, and it was selected for SM identification. Strain LGMB491 produced 1-acetyl-β-carboline (1), indole-3-carbaldehyde (2), 3-(hydroxyacetyl)-indole (4), brevianamide F (5), and cyclo-(L-Pro-L-Phe) (6) as major compounds with antibacterial activity. In this study, we add to the knowledge about the endophytic community from the medicinal plant V. divergens and report the isolation of rare actinomycetes that produce highly active metabolites. [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]

Soil acidity and aluminum presence may reduce plant growth worldwide. In several cases, these two parameters, either alone or associated, can lead to plant constraints, which is barely known in natural ecosystems. In order to address these constraints, current model of study is Qualea cordata, an endemic species of Brazilian impoverished soil of rupestrian fields. Plants were grown, both in very acidic soil and in little deacidificated soil. After 6 months of growth in two acidic soil conditions and aluminum presence, the accumulation and dry biomass partitioning and content of nitrogen, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, aluminum and chloroplastic pigments were evaluated and also chlorophyll fluorescence was obtained in intact plants. The soil deacidification induced an increase of mineral element contents in the leaves, however, lower total plant biomass and aluminum accumulation, also induced differential biomass partitioning and greater carotenoid levels. Regardless of the soil acidity, the levels of chlorophyll were not altered even in photosynthetic parameters. The results highlighted the resilience of this species to natural and very acidic soil conditions, indicating the need and the beneficial effect of aluminum accumulation in this specie. [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]

The interference of chemicals in the germination and growth of plant species, known as allelopathy, is one of the main ways of eliminating competition for resources through the release of allelochemicals. The aim of this study was to determine the presence of secondary metabolites in extracts prepared from leaves of Vochysia haenkeana, evaluating their allelopathic action on the germination and seedling growth of lettuce and tomato. The plant material was collected in the Taboco region, Mato Grosso do Sul state, and after drying and grinding, underwent extraction with the use of water and ethanol, concentration of 200.0 g L-1. The method using an ultrasound bath was followed by maceration for 24 h in the refrigerator without the presence of light. The extracts were subjected to classical phytochemical analysis and the determination of pH, electrical conductivity, soluble solids and allelopathic tests. For bioassays, the extracts were diluted at concentrations of 25.0, 50.0, 100.0 and 150.0 g L-1 and the experimental design was completely randomized. There was a reduction in the percentage and speed of germination at concentrations of 25.0 and 50.0 g L-1 in both extracts. The seedling growth was also adversely affected, both in the germination chamber and in the greenhouse. These results are probably associated with the presence of different allelochemicals in the extracts, such as phenolic compounds and flavonoids, indicating that this species presented allelopathic action.

Contents of proteins, carbohydrates and oil of seeds of 57 individuals of Vochysiaceae, involving one species of Callisthene, six of Qualea, one of Salvertia and eight of Vochysia were determined. The main nutritional reserves of Vochysiaceae seeds are proteins (20% in average) and oils (21. 6%). Mean of carbohydrate contents was 5. 8%. Callisthene showed the lowest protein content (16. 9%), while Q. cordata was the species with the highest content (30% in average). The contents of ethanol soluble carbohydrates were much higher than those of water soluble carbohydrates. Oil contents lay above 20% for most species (30. 4% in V. pygmaea and V. pyramidalis seeds). The predominant fatty acids are lauric (Q. grandiflora), oleic (Qualea and Salvertia) or acids with longer carbon chains (Salvertia and a group of Vochysia species). The distribution of Vochysiaceae fatty acids suggests for seeds of some species an exploitation as food sources (predominance of oleic acid), for other species an alternative to cocoa butter (high contents or predominance of stearic acid) or the production of lubricants, surfactants, detergents, cosmetics and plastic (predominance of acids with C20 or C22 chains) or biodiesel (predominance of monounsaturated acids). The possibility of exploitation of Vochysiaceae products in a cultivation regimen and in extractive reserves is discussed.Teores de proteínas, carboidratos solúveis e óleos de sementes de 57 indivíduos de Vochysiaceae, compreendendo uma espécie de Callisthene, seis de Qualea, uma de Salvertia e oito de Vochysia foram determinados. As principais reservas de sementes de Vochysiaceae são proteínas (20% em média) e óleos (21, 6%). A média dos teores de carboidratos foi de 5, 8%. Callisthene apresentou o mais baixo teor de proteínas (16, 9%), enquanto Q. cordata foi a espécie com o mais elevado teor (30% em média). Teores de carboidratos solúveis em etanol foram muito superiores aos solúveis em água. Os teores de óleo foram superiores a 20% na maioria das espécies (30, 4% em V. pygmaea e V. pyramidalis). Ácidos graxos predominantes foram láurico (Q. grandiflora), oleico (Qualea e Salvertia) ou ácidos com cadeias mais longas (Salvertia e um grupo de espécies de Vochysia). A distribuição de ácidos graxos de Vochysiaceae sugere para as sementes de algumas espécies o uso em alimentação (predominância de ácido oléico), para outras, uma alternativa à manteiga de cacau (teores elevadosde ácido esteárico) ou produção de lubrificantes, tensoativos, detergentes, cosméticos e plásticos (predominância de ácidoscom cadeias C20 ou C22) ou biodiesel (predominância de ácidos monoinsaturados). Discute-se a possibilidade de aproveitamento de produtos de Vochysiaceae em regime de cultivo eem reservas extrativas.

Phytochemical investigation from leaves of the Qualea grandiflora (Vochysiaceae) resulted in the isolation and identification of kaempferol-3-O-α-L-(4"-E-p-coumaroyl)-rhamnoside, kaempferol-3-O-α-L-(4"-Z-p-coumaroyl)-rhamnoside, squalene, phytol, lupeol, α-amyrin, β-amyrin, sitosterol, sitostenone, sitosterol-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside, ursolic and oleanolic acids. The structures of the compounds were identified by 1D- and 2D-NMR experiments, mass and UV spectrometry and comparison with literature data.

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]

A novel oleane acid was isolated from the leaves and the fruits of Vochysia ferruginea. The structure of the new triterpenoid was elucidated by NMR spectroscopy as 2alpha,3beta,6beta-trihydroxyolean-12-en-28-oic acid (6beta-hydroxymaslinic acid, 1). In addition, beta-sitosterol-glucoside and three mixtures containing known triterpenoids, uvaol and erythrodiol, ursolic and oleanolic acids, 2alpha,3beta-dihydroxyurs-12-en-28-oic acid and its respective oleanolic isomer (maslinic or crategolic acid), were isolated from the leaves and the fruits of Vochysia ferruginea. In the fruits, bellericagenin A and its (28 -> 1) beta-D-glucopyranosyl ester (bellericaside A) were present in high amount.

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]

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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]

Copyright of Revista Colombiana de Biotecnología is the property of Universidad Nacional de Colombia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

La familia Vochysiaceae es reconocida en el Perú por presentar cuatro géneros y 32 especies (Brako & Zarucchi, 1993; Ulloa Ulloa et al., 2004), todas árboles. En este trabajo reconocemos dos especies endémicas en el género Qualea. Estas especies endémicas han sido encontradas en la región Bosques Húmedos Amazónicos, entre los 100 y 160 m de altitud. Ninguna especie endémica se encuentra representada dentro del Sistema Nacional de Áreas Naturales Protegidas por el Estado.

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]

We analyzed the genetic structure and diversity of Qualea grandiflora Mart., the most abundant woody species in the Brazilian Cerrado. Eight microsatellite loci were used to analyze samples from four populations subjected to different types of anthropic pressure, distributed throughout the state of São Paulo in the regions of Assis, Brotas, Itirapina and Pedregulho. Results indicated a mean number of 12 alleles per locus, but only six effective alleles. Alleles private to particular populations and rare alleles were also detected. An excess of homozygotes and moderate levels of inbreeding were observed. No clones were identified. All populations departed from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium ( p < 0.05). Spatial structure was observed in the distribution of specimens in distance classes ranging from 30 to 40 km and three genetic clusters were identified, with genotypes in the Pedregulho population differing from the others by up to 90 %. The influence of the Wahlund effect on the studied populations lies between 8.5 and 53.3 %. Estimates of effective population size were low (<10), and the minimum viable area for conservation in the short-, medium- and long-term was estimated to be between 4 and 184 ha. Gene flow was high enough to counter the effects of genetic drift. The genetic diversity and divergence between the studied populations indicated that the Pedregulho population should be considered an Evolutionary Significant Unit and a Management Unit. [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]

A new lupane triterpene, divergioic acid, has been isolated from the stem bark of Vochysia divergens together with beta-sitosterol, betulinic, sericic and 24-hydroxytormentic acids and the (28 -> 1) beta-D-glucopyranosyl ester of the latter. The structure of divergioic acid was elucidated by spectroscopic techniques and characterized as 2alpha,3beta,6beta-trihydroxy-lup-20(29)-en-28-oic acid.

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]

In this study we use allometric models combined with tree ring analysis to estimate carbon stocks and sequestration in the aboveground coarse wood biomass (AGWB) of wetland forests in the Pantanal, located in central South America. In four 1-ha plots in stands characterized by the pioneer tree species Vochysia divergens Pohl (Vochysiaceae) forest inventories (trees ≥10 cm diameter at breast height, D) have been performed and converted to estimates of AGWB by two allometric models using three independent parameters (D, tree height H and wood density ρ). We perform a propagation of measurement errors to estimate uncertainties in the estimates of AGWB. Carbon stocks of AGWB vary from 7.8 ± 1.5 to 97.2 ± 14.4 Mg C ha-1 between the four stands. From models relating tree ages determined by dendrochronological techniques to C-stocks in AGWB we derived estimates for C-sequestration which differs from 0.50 ± 0.03 to 3.34 ± 0.31 Mg C ha-1 yr-1. Maps based on geostatistic techniques indicate the heterogeneous spatial distribution of tree ages and C-stocks of the four studied stands. This distribution is the result of forest dynamics due to the colonizing and retreating of V. divergens and other species associated with pluriannual wet and dry episodes in the Pantanal, respectively. Such information is essential for the management of the cultural landscape of the Pantanal wetlands. [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]

Many Vochysiaceae species, in special Qualea and Vochysia genera , are widely used in folk medicine to treat several diseases. This review describes some aspects of their ethnopharmacology potential, biological activity and the secondary metabolites reported so far for Vochysiaceae. The chemical constituents of this family include triterpenoids, steroids and polyphenols like flavonoids and ellagic acid derivatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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]

Copyright of Neotropical Biology & Conservation is the property of Pensoft Publishers and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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]