Florivory and sex ratio in Annona dioica St. Hil. (Annonaceae) in the Pantanal at Nhecolândia, southwestern Brazil

Annona dioica St. Hil. is a species that grows to approximately 2 m tall and is very widespread in the cerrados. Individual plants of this androdioecious species produce numerous hermaphroditic or male flowers, but few fruits. The aim of this study was to determine the sex ratio among the plants and to compare the frequency of herbivory between male and hermaphroditic flowers. The fieldwork was done by studying flowering plants in grasslands used as pasture for cattle at Fazenda Nhumirim. One hundred and forty-seven male plants and 71 hermaphroditic plants were examined and produced a total of 194 and 94 flowers, respectively, during the study period. The male:hermaphrodite sex ratio was 2.07:1, and was similar to the male:hermaphrodite flower ratio of 2.06:1. The frequency of florivory rate in hermaphrodites was significantly higher than in male flowers (33.0%, n = 31, and 25.7%, n = 50, respectively; G = 14.83; d.f. = 1; p < 0.001). The mean fresh weights of male and hermaphroditic flowers were significantly different (8.38 ± 2.40 g vs. 6.93 ± 2.68 g, respectively; 0 ± SEM; n = 50 each; t = 2.479; d.f. = 49; p = 0.017). These results indicate that the low fruit set in this species can be explained by the sex ratio, the greater herbivory of hermaphroditic flowers and the probable absence of pollinators.

Taxonomia do gênero Heliotropium L. (Heliotropiaceae) no Brasil

The taxonomy of the genus Heliotropium L. in Brazil was studied, revealing nine species and two varieties: H. amplexicaule Vahl, H. angiospermum Murray, H. curassavicum L., H. curassavicum var. argentinum I.M. Johnst., H. elongatum (Lehm.) I.M. Johnst., H. elongatum var. burchellii I.M. Johnst., H. indicum L., H. leiocarpum Morong, H. nicotianaefolium Poir., H. phylicoides Cham. and H. transalpinum Vell. Descriptions, illustrations, comments on relationships based on morphology and data on species distribution are presented.

O gênero Nectandra Rol. ex Rottb. (Lauraceae) no Estado do Paraná, Brasil

Nectandra Rol. ex Rottb. has 14 species in Paraná: Nectandra angustifolia (Schrader) Nees & Mart., N. cissiflora Nees, N. cuspidata Nees & Mart., N. grandiflora Nees & Mart., N. hihua (Ruiz & Pav.) Rohwer, N. lanceolata Nees & Mart., N. leucantha Nees & Mart., N. megapotamica (Sprengel) Mez, N. membranacea (Sw.) Griseb., N. nitidula Nees & Mart., N. oppositifolia Nees & Mart., N. paranaensis Coe-Teixeira, N. puberula (Schott) Nees and N. reticulata (Ruiz & Pav.) Mez. We present an identification key and species descriptions, as well as illustrations and data on phenology and geographic distribution. N. hihua is cited for the first time in Paraná State.

Ontogenia e estrutura do pericarpo de Prestonia riedelii (Müll. Arg.) Markgr. (Apocynaceae)

The aim of this work was to describe the morphology and ontogeny of P. riedelii fruits to aid in taxonomic, ecological and phylogenetic studies in Apocynaceae. Fruits were fixed in FAA, embedded in plastic resin, sectioned at 10 ìm and stained with toluidine blue, for structural analysis. The fruit of P. riedelii is a follicarium, with two follicular fruitlets. The epicarp is one-cell-layered, with trichomes and thick cuticle. The mesocarp, originating from fundamental ovary tissue, is parenchymatous with laticifers, non-lignified fibers and vascular bundles. The endocarp sensu lato is two-celllayered of crossed sclereids, originating from the inner ovary epidermis and from a single layer of parenchyma cells of fundamental ovary tissue. Follicle dehiscence is lateral and the dehiscence process involves anatomical characteristics such as a dehiscence zone with thin-walled cells, non-lignified fibers in the mesocarp and crossed sclereids in the endocarp.

Seed dispersal of Solanum thomasiifolium Sendtner (Solanaceae) in the Linhares Forest, Espírito Santo state, Brazil

The aim of this study was to analyse seed dispersal and establishment of Solanum thomasiifolium in an area of nativo vegetation in Espirito Santo state on the southeastern Brazilian coast. Ten species of birds, the crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous), and one species of lizard (Tropidurus torquatus) fed on S. thomasiifolium fruits and dispersed viable seeds in their faeces. The proportional contribution of each of these groups to seed dispersal was 77% (birds), 19% (crab-eating fox) and 4% (lizards). Ants also contributed to seed dispersal. More seeds were deposited in vegetation islands than in the surrounding open areas. Germination rates of seeds collected directly from fruit (control), bird droppings, the faeces of crab-eating foxes and lizards were, respectively, 64, 64, 53, and 80 %. Differences among these rates were all significant, except between birds and control. Lizards were important as seed carriers between nearby islands and they expelled a higher proportion of viable seeds. Birds and the crab-eating foxes did not enhance seed germination, but promoted seed dispersal over a wider area. Plant architecture, fruit productivity, fruit characteristics and the diversity of frugivores are important for the success of S. thomasiifolium in habitat colonization.

Taxonomia do gênero Euploca Nutt. (Heliotropiaceae) no Brasil

This work deals with a taxonomic study of the genus Euploca (Heliotropiaceae) in Brazil; seventeen species are recorded. A keyfor identification, descriptions, illustrations and comments, besides distribution, habitat, flowering and fruiting data for the species are presented.

Caracterização morfoanatômica e histoquímica de Cuphea carthagenensis (Jacq.) J.f. Macbr. (Lythraceae)

Cuphea carthagenensis (Jacq.) J.F. Macbr. is an herb, which occurs preferably in wet places. Amongst other species of the genus, C. carthagenensis is distinguished for its great chemical potential and frequent use in popular medicine. In this study the morphological and anatomical structures were identified, as well as the histochemical characterization was done. Samples of root, stem and leaves were collected from adult plants. This material was processed for anatomical and histochemical analysis in light microscopy and for morphological analysis, in scanning electron microscopy. Important morphological and anatomical considerations were added for C. carthagenensis, such as: the occurrence of aerenchymatous phellem with suberized layers; the types of trichomes present in the vegetative organs, the characterization of secretory trichomes, as well as the secreted substances. The groups of secondary metabolites presents in the root, stem and leaf of C. carthagenensis with more intense histochemical reaction were: proanthocyanidins, phenolic compounds, acids polysaccharides (mucilage especially) and lipids.

O Complexo Vegetacional da Zona Litorânea no Ceará: Pecém, São Gonçalo do Amarante

Due to its geographical location, the northeastern Coast of Brazil (Litoral Setentrional do Nordeste - LSN) is a hotter and drier climate than the eastern coast. In addition, because of its proximity to caatinga and cerrado, the LSN contains species from these vegetation biomes and from the restinga on the coast, which comprise different plant formations and creates a vegetation complex. Despite the great importance of this ecotone, there are few studies about its flora. The objective of this work was to contribute to what is known about the floristic and phytosociological composition of this region. We made a floristic survey in the area (between 2007 and 2011), consulted herbaria data from the region and made a phytosociological study in a stretch of coastal semideciduous forest (mata de tabuleiro). The study recorded 382 plant species from 96 families. In the phytosociological survey (0.32 ha) we recorded 2,970 individuals and 52 species. The most abundant plants surveyed were the trees Manilkara triflora, Chamaecrista ensiformis and Guapira nitida and the shrubs Cordiera sessilis and Maytenus erythroxyla (average height 3.8 m, average diameter 6.2 cm, basal area 39.28 m²/ha). The local flora includes floristic elements of caatinga, cerrado and restinga, corroborating the idea that the plant community of the coastal region of Ceará has an ecotonal nature.

Compreensão da sexualidade por jovens com diagnóstico de deficiência intelectual

The study describes the comprehension of concepts about sexuality by youths diagnosed with intellectual deficiency, during classes on sexual education. The analysis of selected episodes from video transcriptions of five classes (Human Body, Kiss, Flirting, Coitus, Condom/STD) showed: the appropriation and understanding of concepts, partial difficulties of comprehension, and inhibition. The analysis of the transcripts indicated that all students were attentive to the classes, participated in the proposed tasks, and answered the questions. The observed signs of inhibition and the expression of values were similar to those observed in other youngsters, indicating the appropriation of culturally established values. The obtained evidences contrast with mythical visions related to sexuality in these youngsters, and suggest more studies about their competences.

O ensino de línguas para crianças no contexto educacional brasileiro: breves reflexões e possíveis provisões

This article aims at discussing about the foreign language teaching to young learners, taking the principles of the Sociocultural Theory (Vygotksy, 1978) and of the Communicative Approach (Almeida Filho, 1993, 2005) related to Primary English teaching (Cameron, 2001; Brewster, Ellis & Girard, 2002) as a theoretical references. Considerations about the importance of language learning in childhood will be made, as well as about the role of the grammar, oral language and mother tongue in the process. Likewise, the importance of Teacher Education will be briefly approached. This work is ended with the discussion about some possible procedures in the language teaching processes followed by a brief presentation of possible guidelines based on the bakhtinian notion of discourse genres.

Análise bayesiana do modelo de herança monogênica no melhoramento vegetal: um exemplo com abobrinha

A common breeding strategy is to carry out basic studies to investigate the hypothesis of a single gene controlling the trait (major gene) with or without polygenes of minor effect. In this study we used Bayesian inference to fit genetic additive-dominance models of inheritance to plant breeding experiments with multiple generations. Normal densities with different means, according to the major gene genotype, were considered in a linear model in which the design matrix of the genetic effects had unknown coefficients (which were estimated in individual basis). An actual data set from an inheritance study of partenocarpy in zucchini (Cucurbita pepo L.) was used for illustration. Model fitting included posterior probabilities for all individual genotypes. Analysis agrees with results in the literature but this approach was far more efficient than previous alternatives assuming that design matrix was known for the generations. Partenocarpy in zucchini is controlled by a major gene with important additive effect and partial dominance.

Evaluation of the performance of different plastics used to seal nylon cDNA arrays

cDNA arrays are a powerful tool for discovering gene expression patterns. Nylon arrays have the advantage that they can be re-used several times. A key issue in high throughput gene expression analysis is sensitivity. In the case of nylon arrays, signal detection can be affected by the plastic bags used to keep membranes humid. In this study, we evaluated the effect of five types of plastics on the radioactive transmittance, number of genes with a signal above the background, and data variability. A polyethylene plastic bag 69 μm thick had a strong shielding effect that blocked 68.7% of the radioactive signal. The shielding effect on transmittance decreased the number of detected genes and increased the data variability. Other plastics which were thinner gave better results. Although plastics made from polyvinylidene chloride, polyvinyl chloride (both 13 μm thick) and polyethylene (29 and 7 μm thick) showed different levels of transmittance, they all gave similarly good performances. Polyvinylidene chloride and polyethylene 29 mm thick were the plastics of choice because of their easy handling. For other types of plastics, it is advisable to run a simple check on their performance in order to obtain the maximum information from nylon cDNA arrays.

Atributos mecânicos e erosão por salpicamento em amostras de latossolo vermelho-amarelo sob efeito de vinhaça

The objective of this study was to quantify the effect of plonk on compressive behavior and mechanical attributes such as consistency, optimum moisture for compaction and maximum density of a Red-Yellow Latosol (Oxisol) to evaluate the effect of plonk and compaction state in splashed particles, from Lavras (MG) region. The plonk was obtained from an artisanal sugarcane brandy alembic. Undisturbed and disturbed soil samples were collected at 0 to 3 cm and 60 to 63 cm depths. Disturbed soil samples were used for soil characterization, determination of consistence limits and Normal Proctor essay after material incubation with plonk. Undisturbed soil samples were saturated with plonk or distilled water (control) during 48 hours for testing the compressibility and resistance to splash by using simulated rainfall. The plonk altered the consistence limits of studied layers. For the 0-3 cm layer, the plonk reduced the friable range, and for the 60-63 cm layer the effect was in the opposite direction. For both layers, the plonk increased Dmax and decreased Uoptimum. Regardless of the plonk treatment, both layers presented the same load support capacity. The compaction degree of samples influenced the splash erosion. The increase of the applied pressure over the samples resulted in increase of splash material quantity. At the 60-63 cm layer, the plonk treatment reduced the splash material quantity by increasing the applied pressure, mainly when the samples were at field capacity.

Variáveis objetivas e subjetivas para monitoramento de diferentes ciclos de temporada em jogadores de basquete

The present study aimed to evaluate, compare and relate load and training tiredness during a periodization cycle in basketball players. Eight professional male athletes aged 21.9 ± 3.4 years, all of whom participated in the São Paulo basketball championship, special division, took part in this study. The macrocycle analyzed encompassed 19 weeks divided into the following periods: Preparatory, Competitive I, and Competitive II (having 4, 6, and 9 weeks, respectively). The authors daily evaluated the athletes on subjective perception of tiredness and training load and monitored the athletes' upper limb power by quantifying their ability to throw a medicine ball. Athletes presented less fatigue (p <0.005) in the Preparatory period (13.71 ± 1.30) compared with the Competitive I (14.68 ± 1.51) and Competitive II (14.63 ± 1.22) periods. Their ability to throw the medicine ball decreased (p <0.005) in the Competitive period II (3.59 ± 0.30) compared with the Preparatory (3.80 ± 0.36) and Competitive I (3.86 ± 0.26) periods. Their monotony decreased (p <0.001) in the Competitive period II (1.18 ± 0.43) compared with the Preparatory (2.50 ± 2.01) and Competitive I (2.10 ± 1.61) periods. The results revealed the effectiveness of monitoring load and tiredness of athletes by means of the proposed method to assist in training organization during a macrocycle.

Respostas cardiopulmonares agudas de mulheres no treinamento de força

OBJETIVE: Investigate the cardiopulmonary responses of one strength training session in young women. METHOD: Twenty-three women aged between 18 and 29 years participated in this study. All the volunteers were submitted to the following tests: cardiopulmonary and one-repetition maximum (1-RM). The strength training protocol had emphasis on muscular hypertrophy, three sets from eight to twelve repetitions under 70% of 1-RM, with a one minute thirty-second break between sets. During the training session, the cardiopulmonary variables were measured with a metabolic gas analyzer and a telemetry module. RESULTS: The results of the oxygen consumption in the training session were from 8.43 + 1.76 ml/kg/min and of the heart rate of 108.08 + 15.26 bpm. The results of the oxygen consumption and of the heart rate in the training were lower (p < 0.01) than in the ventilatory threshold and of the oxygen consumption and the heart rate reserves. CONCLUSION: The obtained data show that the present protocol of strength training provided low overload to the cardiopulmonary system of young women.