Showing papers by "Universidade Federal de Pelotas published in 2000"

Reducing deaths from diarrhoea through oral rehydration therapy

Abstract: In 1980, diarrhoea was the leading cause of child mortality, accounting for 4.6 million deaths annually. Efforts to control diarrhoea over the past decade have been based on multiple, potentially powerful interventions implemented more or less simultaneously. Oral rehydration therapy (ORT) was introduced in 1979 and rapidly became the cornerstone of programmes for the control of diarrhoeal diseases. We report on the strategy for controlling diarrhoea through case management, with special reference to ORT, and on the relationship between its implementation and reduced mortality. Population-based data on the coverage and quality of facility-based use of ORT are scarce, despite its potential importance in reducing mortality, especially for severe cases. ORT use rates during the 1980s are available for only a few countries. An improvement in the availability of data occurred in the mid-1990s. The study of time trends is hampered by the use of several different definitions of ORT. Nevertheless, the data show positive trends in diarrhoea management in most parts of the world. ORT is now given to the majority of children with diarrhoea. The annual number of deaths attributable to diarrhoea among children aged under 5 years fell from the estimated 4.6 million in 1980 to about 1.5 million today. Case studies in Brazil, Egypt, Mexico, and the Philippines confirm increases in the use of ORT which are concomitant with marked falls in mortality. In some countries, possible alternative explanations for the observed decline in mortality have been fairly confidently ruled out. Experience with ORT can provide useful guidance for child survival programmes. With adequate political will and financial support, cost-effective interventions other than that of immunization can be successfully delivered by national programmes. Furthermore, there are important lessons for evaluators. The population-based data needed to establish trends in health service delivery, outcomes and impact are not available in respect of diarrhoea, as is true for malaria, pneumonia and other major childhood conditions. Standard indicators and measurement methods should be established. Efforts to change existing global indicators should be firmly resisted. Support should be given for the continuing evaluation and documentation activities needed to guide future public health policies and programmes.

Overweight and obesity in Brazilian adolescents.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to describe the prevalence of overweight and obesity (OW+O) among Brazilian adolescents and to identify risks for subpopulations defined according to the five country macro-regions and situation (urban–rural) of the domiciles, income, years of school attendance, age and sex. DESIGN: A nationwide home-based survey representative of the Brazilian civilian noninstitutionalized population, performed in 1989. METHODS: The sampling plans followed a stratified, multistage, probability cluster design in The National Research of Health and Nutrition sample, which collected anthropometric data of 14,455 domiciles. In all, 13,715 adolescents ranging from 10 to 19 y of age were studied. The OW+O was defined from a body mass index (BMI) equal or superior to the 85th percentile of the reference population of the NCHS. The prevalences in the different studied groups were compared using the adjusted odds ratio in logistic regression models. RESULTS: The prevalence of OW+O was of 7.7%, reaching 10.6% within the female group and 4.8% within the male group. A direct relation could be established between the socioeconomic level and OW+O. Adolescents of the most industrialized region of the country presented a risk of OW+O 1.86 (95% CI 1.51–2.30) times higher than that found in the least developed region. Male youngsters who lived in urban areas were more liable (OR=1.71, 95% CI 1.30–2.25) to overweight than their counterparts of rural areas. The occurrence of menarche increased two and a half times (OR=2.58, 95% CI 2.11–3.15) the risk of OW+O within the female group of adolescents. CONCLUSIONS: The results demonstrate a low prevalence of OW+O among Brazilian adolescents when compared with adolescents of more industrialized regions. The OW+O is twice as high within the female group, which represents a much greater difference than the one encountered in industrialized countries, probably owing to the muscular work carried out preponderantly by male adolescents of lower socioeconomic levels. Higher prevalences in subpopulations of higher socioeconomic level and of more industrialized regions show the great need for differentiated actions to control overweight and obesity in the country.

Prevalência e fatores de risco para anemia no Sul do Brasil

Abstract: OBJETIVO: Medir a prevalencia e avaliar os fatores de risco para anemia. METODOS: Estudo transversal de base populacional, realizado em area urbana do Municipio de Criciuma (SC), Sul do Brasil. A populacao estudada foi constituida de uma amostra probabilistica de 476 criancas menores de 3 anos. Para investigacao da associacao entre anemia e os fatores de risco. A coleta de dados foi feita atraves de questionario pre-codificado, aplicado as maes ou responsaveis pela crianca, sendo a dosagem de hemoglobina feita com sangue periferico e a leitura imediata em hemoglobinometro portatil. RESULTADOS: A prevalencia de anemia encontrada na amostra foi de 60,4% pelo criterio Brault-Dubuc e de 54% pelo criterio da OMS. A prevalencia de anemia aumenta com a idade ate os 18 meses, diminuindo apos essa faixa etaria, sendo menos prevalente com o aumento da escolaridade do pai e da renda familiar total. Entretanto, mesmo entre os 25% com maior renda foi constatado que mais de 40% das criancas estao anemicas. Na analise multivariada hierarquizada, permaneceram significativas apenas as variaveis de idade da crianca, renda familiar e aglomeracao. Nao se mostraram como fatores de risco para a anemia os antecedentes de saude reprodutiva, a utilizacao dos servicos de saude, peso ao nascer, aleitamento materno, antropometria e morbidade. CONCLUSOES: O estudo evidencia a forca da desigualdade social na anemia, sendo que o risco que ela representa para a saude e desenvolvimento intelectual das criancas exige acoes imediatas.

Lysosomal Storage Disease Caused by Sida carpinifolia Poisoning in Goats

Abstract: A neurologic disease characterized by ataxia, hypermetria, hyperesthesia, and muscle tremors of the head and neck was observed for 2 years in a flock of 28 Anglo-Nubian and Saanen goats on a farm with 5 ha of pasture. Six newborns died during the first week of life, and five abortions were recorded. The predominant plant in the pasture was Sida carpinifolia. The disease was reproduced experimentally in two goats by administration of this plant. Three goats with spontaneous disease and the two experimental animals were euthanatized and necropsied. No significant gross lesions were observed. Fragments of several organs, including the central nervous system, were processed for histopathology. Small fragments of the cerebellar cortex, liver, and pancreas of two spontaneously poisoned goats and two experimentally poisoned goats were processed for electron microscopy. Multiple cytoplasm vacuoles in hepatocytes, acinar pancreatic cells, and neurons, especially Purkinje cells, were the most striking microscopic lesions in the five animals. Ultrastructural changes included membrane-bound vacuoles in hepatocytes, Kupffer cells, acinar pancreatic cells, Purkinje cells, and the small neurons of the granular cell layer of the cerebellum. Paraffin-embedded sections of the cerebellum and pancreas were submitted for lectin histochemical analysis. The vacuoles in different cerebellar and acinar pancreatic cells reacted strongly to the following lectins: Concanavalia ensiformis, Triticum vulgaris, and succinylated Triticum vulgaris. The pattern of staining, analyzed in Purkinje cells and acinar pancreatic cells coincides with results reported for both swainsonine toxicosis and inherited mannosidosis.

[The rural labor process and health in the Southern Brazilian mountains: a descriptive study].

Abstract: This cross-sectional study among rural workers in the mountainous region of the southernmost Brazilian State of Rio Grande do Sul was designed to identify the characteristics of work performed on family farms. The research focused on the socio-demographic profiles of rural workers, identifying the characteristics of rural labor and describing the prevalence of some disease entities in such populations. Some 1479 rural workers from 495 farms were interviewed. In this sample, 87% of the individuals were members of the farm-owning family, mean age was 41 years, 56% were males, and mean schooling was 5 years. Farms had a mean area of 37 hectares, 50% had at least one type of farm machinery, and fruits constituted the main crop. About 75% of workers handled several types of pesticides, while 12% reported at least one lifetime episode of pesticide poisoning. Prevalence of minor psychiatric disorders was 36%, and annual frequency of occupational injuries was 10%. There was a wide variety of activities and occupational risks. The high prevalence of health problems identified in the study calls attention to the need for measures to promote and protect rural workers' health.

Growth patterns of breastfed infants in seven countries

Abstract: An international effort is underway to develop a new international growth reference for assessing the growth of young children, especially breastfed infants who appear to falter relative to the currently recommended National Center for Health Statistics/World Health Organization reference. While limited data from high socioeconomic status children from different parts of the world suggest that their growth patterns are similar, there is no comprehensive study of breastfed infants. The WHO Multinational Study of Breastfeeding and Lactational Amenorrhea provides bi‐weekly weights and 2‐4 weekly length measurements on breastfed babies from selected sites in Australia, Chile, China, Guatemala, India, Nigeria and Sweden. Multi‐level modelling was used to analyse between‐site differences in the growth of approximately 120 infants per site, after adjustment for maternal stature and infant feeding pattern. All mothers were literate and mean educational levels were well above national averages, but the study was not restricted to infants of high socioeconomic status. Maternal education was significantly associated with infant weight only in India. The growth curves of infants from most sites were strikingly similar, but relative to the Australians (the reference category), the Chinese babies were about 3% shorter at 12 mo of age and the Indians up to 15% lighter. The present results suggest that breastfed babies from reasonably well‐off families in different continents show very similar growth patterns. However, it is important that the growth of children from South and East Asian populations be rigorously assessed in the process of developing the new international growth reference. This paper discusses the relative importance of environmental versus genetic influences in the growth of young children and illustrates the complexities involved in the analysis of growth data.

Nutrição materna e duração da amamentação em uma coorte de nascimento de Pelotas, RS

Abstract: OBJETIVO: Os efeitos da situacao nutricional materna sobre a duracao da amamentacao sao inconsistentes na literatura. O estudo realizado objetivou investigar esses efeitos em uma coorte de nascimentos hospitalares. METODOS: Foram estudadas 977 mulheres que tiveram filhos no ano de 1993, em Pelotas (representando 20% dos nascimentos ocorridos nesse ano). Os efeitos da situacao nutricional materna e de variaveis socioeconomicas e demograficas sobre a prevalencia de amamentacao aos seis meses de idade e sobre a duracao da amamentacao foram analisados pela regressao logistica e de Cox, respectivamente. RESULTADOS: A analise multivariada mostrou que a prevalencia de amamentacao foi mais alta entre mulheres que iniciaram a gestacao com 49 kg ou mais (RO = 1,31; IC95% 1,04 - 1,64), e a associacao com altura materna foi no limiar da significância (p=0,06). A regressao de Cox mostrou um efeito protetor, no limiar da significância, do maior peso pre-gestacional sobre o desmame (RR = 0,91; IC95% 0,82 -- 1,01). Nao houve diferenca na duracao da amamentacao quanto a altura materna. O ganho de peso gestacional nao mostrou associacao com prevalencia ou duracao da amamentacao. Idade materna, paridade, habito de tabagismo e idade gestacional estiveram associadas significativamente com a amamentacao em ambas as analises. Renda familiar mostrou associacao com a prevalencia de amamentacao aos seis meses e o peso ao nascer com a duracao da amamentacao. CONCLUSOES: Peso pre-gestacional foi um melhor preditor para duracao da amamentacao do que o ganho de peso gestacional.

Diagnóstico de sobrepeso em adolescentes: estudo do desempenho de diferentes critérios para o Índice de Massa Corporal

Abstract: OBJETIVO: Pela simplificacao da triagem para obesidade na adolescencia, avaliou-se o desempenho de diferentes pontos de corte para o Indice de Massa Corporal (IMC) em uma coorte populacional nascida em 1982, em Pelotas, no sul do Brasil. METODOS: Foram estudados 493 adolescentes, com idades de 15 a 16 anos, residentes na zona urbana de Pelotas, RS. A obesidade foi definida pelo percentil 85 de IMC mais o percentil 90 das dobras cutâneas tricipital e subescapular, conforme a Organizacao Mundial da Saude (OMS). Diversos pontos de corte para sobrepeso tiveram sua sensibilidade e especificidade avaliadas. RESULTADOS: Nos meninos, o IMC > ou = 25 kg/m² apresentou sensibilidade superior a 90% e 5% de falso-positivos. O criterio proposto para adolescentes brasileiros apresentou sensibilidade de 100%, mas os falso-positivos chegaram a 23%. Nas meninas, os pontos de corte coincidiram, apresentando sensibilidade superior a 90%, com ate 13% de falso-positivos. Pontos de corte mais altos foram testados, porem pouco melhoraram a especificidade, que foi acompanhada de reducao na sensibilidade. CONCLUSOES: O IMC > ou = 25 kg/m² mostrou o melhor desempenho na deteccao de obesidade, parecendo adequado para triagem de adolescentes de ambos os sexos com 15 anos ou mais. Tem a vantagem de ser unico, de facil determinacao e compativel com o ponto de corte recomendado pela OMS para adultos. Dispensa o uso de valores de IMC especificos para idade, sexo e medida de dobras cutâneas, sendo, portanto, recomendavel para uso em servicos de saude.

[Asthmatic children's risk factors for emergency room visits, Brazil].

Abstract: OBJETIVOS: Tracar um perfil das criancas asmaticas do municipio de Pelotas, RS, conhecer o manejo da doenca e os fatores de risco associados a consultas em pronto-socorro, motivadas por asma. METODOS: Estudo transversal aninhado a um estudo de coorte, realizado na area urbana de Pelotas, cidade de medio porte do Sul do Brasil. Participaram 981 criancas de 4-5 anos, pertencentes a coorte de 1993. RESULTADOS: A prevalencia de asma encontrada na amostra estudada foi de 25,4%. A morbidade por asma foi elevada: 31% das criancas asmaticas haviam procurado o pronto-socorro no ultimo ano, 57% tinham consultado medico e 26%, de 1 a 4 anos, foram internadas por asma. Na analise geral, escolaridade e renda familiar baixas associaram-se com consultas em pronto-socorro (RO=4,1 para 0 a 4 anos de escolaridade e RO=6,5 para menos de 1 salario-minimo). Dormir em quartos com 3 ou mais pessoas tambem mostrou-se associado (RO=2,2), bem como severidade das crises (RO=2,7), uso de medicamentos para asma no ultimo ano (RO=1,9) e internacoes por asma (RO=3,0). CONCLUSOES: A prevalencia de asma entre criancas pre-escolares em Pelotas e alta, levando a grande morbidade. Encontraram-se como fatores preditores de consultas em pronto-socorro por asma, apos analise multivariada, a baixa escolaridade das maes, severidade das crises e internacao por asma.

Genetic basis of stay-green trait in bread wheat.

Abstract: The stay-green trait is responsible for the preservation of green coloration in the stem and leaf, during physiological maturity. It has also been shown to play an important role in the increase of grain size. The knowledge of the inheritance of this trait can constitute valuable information to plant breeders in the developing new wheat (Triti-cum aestivum L.) varieties. This study was conducted in two environments, during the years of 1997 and 1998, to verify the genetic basis of the stay-green trait among crosses of four different genotypes in the field and three in the greenhouse. The analysis was based on three fixed (P1, P2 and F1) and three segregating (F2, BC1F1 and BC2F1) generations. Means and variances were computed for every generation for each cross and the nature of the gene and its effects were estimated. Change in stem color was used as the criterion for the stay-green trait in three phases of development in wheat, based on scores obtained from visual analysis, on a scale of 1 to 1...

Vigor de sementes e análise de crescimento de aveia preta

Abstract: This study was carried out in Capao do Leao, RS, Brazil, with the objective of evaluating the effect of seed vigor on the growth of two cultivars of cultivated black oats (Avena strigosa Schreb), as well as to verify possible interactions with plant population (150, 300 and 450 pl m-2). Seed vigor and plant population affected dry matter production during the vegetative period. The effects were reduced progressively in the growing season, with no more difference after anthesis. The extreme levels of seed vigor and plant population produced differences in dry matter yield of 410 kg ha-1 and 480 kg ha-1, respectively, at the 75th day after emergence, these effects were due to differences in crop growth rates. A compensatory effect of the plant population on dry matter production was verified, so that the effect of low seed vigor could be compensated by an increase in plant population; the lower the seed vigor level, the greater was the plant population required. High vigor seeds also compensated the effects of low plant populations.

Leptospirose em cães: prevalência e fatores de risco no meio rural do Município de Pelotas, RS

Abstract: With the aim of surveying the prevalence and the risk factors for leptospirosis in dogs in the rural area of Pelotas, a study through sinple random sampling by conclomerates was performed. Four hundred and eighty nine serological samples from dogs from 213 properties were examined. Samples were submitted to the Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT), where 13 (2.66%) of them presented a positive result with antibody titers varying from 50 to 800 for icterohaemorragiae, australis, copenhageni, pyrogenes, sentot and canicola serovars. There was a higher incidence of infection in dogs from properties situated near the BR 116 and BR 392 roads, where the altitude varies from 0 to 100 m, the lowest altitudes of the area. The main risk factors for leptospirosis were contact of the dogs with swamps (O.R. = 7.43), ponds (O.R. = 5.27) and altitude (O.R. = 7.09).

Critérios de escolha de postos de saúde para acompanhamento pré-natal em Pelotas, RS

Abstract: OBJETIVO: Caracterizar o cuidado pre-natal em uma amostra representativa de maes, identificando o servico de saude onde estas realizaram o acompanhamento da gestacao e os motivos que as levaram a escolher este local. METODOS: Estudo transversal, realizado nos meses de marco e abril de 1997, nas quatro principais maternidades de Pelotas, RS, atraves de entrevista a 401 maes no pos-parto imediato. RESULTADOS: Fizeram acompanhamento pre-natal, em um posto de saude 51% das maes, sendo a proximidade geografica o criterio mais frequentemente referido para tal escolha (46,8%). Para 85% das maes, o servico de saude mais proximo de casa era um posto de saude. No entanto, 52,2% dessas nao utilizaram esse local para as consultas pre-natais alegando a ma qualidade do atendimento (37,4%). Conforme referido pelas maes, entre os procedimentos de rotina do pre-natal recomendados pelo programa de saude da rede publica, incluindo a promocao do aleitamento materno, apenas a imunizacao anti-tetânica foi realizada mais frequentemente nos postos do que nos demais locais. CONCLUSOES: Tendo em vista a expressiva utilizacao da rede publica para o acompanhamento pre-natal, necessitam ser implementados investimentos em educacao continuada dos profissionais, com enfase no cumprimento de normas tecnicas pre-estabelecidas.

[Race and inequality among women: an example in southern Brazil].

Abstract: This study uses epidemiological data to investigate socioeconomic proportions of distinctions raised by "racism" in Brazilian society. A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 2,779 women ages 14 through 49, living in a southern Brazilian city. Black and mixed-race women had less schooling, lower family income, and worse housing conditions than white women. They also used contraceptive methods less frequently, had more children, and had higher spontaneous abortion and stillbirth rates than white women. Virtually all of the results show a linear relationship between such categories, i.e., the "darker" the woman's skin color, the worse her socioeconomic and reproductive conditions. We also observed that black women were either separated, divorced, or widowed, another apparent factor for black women's impoverishment, related mainly to their limited employment opportunities. The results of the current study indicate that racial relations among women are an issue that should foster a discussion concerning citizenship in Brazil.

Combination of antidepressants and psychological treatments for bulimia nervosa: a systematic review

Abstract: Bacaltchuk J, Trefiglio RP, Oliveira IR, Hay P, Lima MS, Mari JJ. Combination of antidepressants and psychological treatments for bulimia nervosa: a systematic review. Acta Psychiatr Scand 2000: 101: 256–264. © Munksgaard 2000. Background: This review assessed the effect of a combination of antidepressants plus psychological approaches compared to each single treatment for bulimia nervosa. Method: Trials were included in two meta-analyses: single antidepressants versus combination and single psychological approaches versus combination. Methodological quality and homogeneity of results were assessed. Dichotomous outcomes were analyzed by calculating relative risks (RR). Results: Five trials were included in meta-analysis 1 and 7 in meta-analysis 2. Remission rates were 42% for combination versus 23% for antidepressants (RR=1.38; 95% CI = 0.98–1.93; P= 0.06) and 36% for psychological approaches compared to 49% for combination (RR = 1.21; P= 0.03). Drop-out rates were 16%) for psychological approaches and 30% for combination (RR = 0.57; 95% CI = 0.38–0.088: P = 0.11). Conclusion: Efficacy of combined treatments was superior to single approaches. When antidepressants were combined to treatment, acceptability of psychological approaches was significantly reduced.

Avaliação de espaçamentos e populações de plantas de feijão visando à colheita mecanizada direta

Abstract: 8 RESUMO - O trabalho foi conduzido na safra 1992/93, no Centro Agropecuario Palma (CAP)/Univer- sidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel), objetivando avaliar o efeito da variacao do espacamento entre linhas e da populacao de plantas sobre caracteristicas agronomicas relacionadas com a colheita mecanizada de feijoeiro (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). Foram testados tres espacamentos entre linhas (25, 50 e 75 cm) e quatro populacoes de plantas/ha (100, 200, 350 e 500 mil), utilizando como reagente a cultivar Pampa, de habito de crescimento indeterminado, tipo II. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos casualizados, com quatro repeticoes. Somente ocorreu interacao entre os fatores para o indice de acamamento, onde o aumento da populacao tendeu a reduzi-lo. A combinacao do maior espacamento com a menor populacao provocou o maior acamamento. A reducao no espacamento entre linhas, apesar de reduzir a altura de plantas, a altura de insercao de vagens e o rendimento de graos, provocou aumento na altura da ponta da vagem mais baixa ate o solo, e reducao na porcentagem de plantas com vagens encostando no solo. O aumento na populacao de plantas, apesar de nao afetar a maioria das caracteristicas agronomicas das plantas, provocou reducao na porcentagem de plantas com vagens encostando no solo, e nao provocou modificacoes no rendimento de graos. Termos para indexacao: Phaseolus vulgaris, acamamento, insercao de vagens. SPACING AND PLANT POPULATION FOR DRY BEAN HARVEST MECHANIZATION ABSTRACT - The experiment was conducted in 1992/93 season at Centro Agropecuario da Palma (CAP) of the Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel), in Pelotas, Brazil, to evaluate the effect of spacing variations between rows and plant populations on agronomic characteristics related to mechanized harvest for dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). Three different row spacing (25, 50 and 75 cm) and four different plant populations/ha (100, 200, 350 and 500 thousand) were used, utilizing the cultivar Pampa, indeterminate growth habit type II as reagent. The field trial was in randomized blocks, with four replications. Positive interaction between factors was observed for the lodging index, where the increase in the plant population tended to reduce it. The combination of larger spacing with smaller plant population resulted in a higher lodging index. The reduction in the row spacings, in spite of reducing the plant height, the pod insertion height and the grain yield, resulted in an increase of the lowest pod tip height and in a reduction of the percentage of plants with pods touching the soil surface. The increase in the plant population, despite of not affecting the majority of the agronomic characteristics of the plant, resulted in a reduction of the percentage of plants with pods touching the soil and did not cause any alteration in the grain yield.

Polioencefalomalacia em bovinos nos estados de Mato Grosso do Sul e São Paulo

Abstract: Thirty outbreaks of polioencephalomalacia (PEM) were diagnosed from August 1993 to October 1997. Twenty nine occurred in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul and one in Sao Paulo. The disease affected cattle from 4 months to 7 years of age. Morbidity rates ranged from 0.02% to 14.28% and case fatalities from 42.5 % to 100%. The disease was not seasonal. All outbreaks occurred in cattle grazing Brachiaria spp, except one affecting feedlot cattle. Only neurologic signs were observed, and the course of the disease varied from 12 hours to 4 days in untreated cattle. Most animals treated with thiamine and dexamethazone recovered. Moderate cerebral edema was observed at necropsy. Cell changes were characterized by laminar necrosis and gitter cells. In two cases moderate cortical and submeningeal hemorrhages were observed. Nine cases had perivascular and submeningeal infiltrations by eosinophils. Sodium ion concentration of the cerebrospinal fluid was elevated in one case. The cause of PEM in the region was not determined, but the results suggest that in some cases sodium chloride intoxication/water deprivation could play a role in the etiology of the disease. PEM represents 4.78% of cattle disease diagnosed at the Pathology Laboratory of the Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul.

Characterization and molecular analysis of transgenic plants obtained by microprotoplast fusion in sunflower

Abstract: Asymmetric somatic hybrid (ASH) plants were obtained by PEG-mediated mass fusion of microprotoplasts from perennial Helianthus species and hypocotyl protoplasts of Helianthus annuus. The formation of micronuclei in perennial sunflower cell cultures was induced, at early log phase, by addition of the herbicides amiprophos-methyl or oryzalin. Sub-diploid microprotoplasts were isolated by high-speed centrifugation and the smallest enriched by sequential filtration through nylon sieves of decreasing pore size. Fusion products were cultured and the regenerated plants phenotypically, genetically and cytologically characterized. DNA analysis using RAPD markers revealed that 28 out of 53 regenerated plants were asymmetric hybrids. Subsequent nuclear-DNA flow cytometric analysis showed that these plants had a higher DNA content than the receptor H. annuus, suggesting that they represented addition lines. Cytological investigation of the metaphase cells of 16 hybrids revealed an addition of 2–8 extra chromosomes in these plants. The phenotype of most ASH plants resembled H. annuus. These results indicate that micronuclear induction and asymmetric somatic hybridization represent a potent tool for partial genome transfer aimed at the specific transfer of economically important traits in breeding programs.

Tuberculosis throughout the times

Abstract: This paper outlines a picture of the representations of tuberculosis in different decades and how they have been handled by clinical medicine. The history of the disease, from the early days of the XIX century hygienist policies to the current control and prevention programs, displays a continual change of focus: social views were sometimes highlighted (the environment, work, housing), and at times the focus shifted to individual viewpoints (body fluids, lifestyle) regarding forms of prevention and cure of the disease. Such diverse representations and concepts about tuberculosis have influenced the way in which medicine and sick individuals perceived the disease and dealt with it.

Entendendo a baixa prevalência de déficit de peso para estatura em crianças brasileiras de baixo nível sócio-econômico: correlação entre índices antropométricos

Abstract: The sample for this study consisted of 386 children from six to 59 months of age. The objective was to study the association between wasting and abdominal circumference. Thirteen anthropometric measurements were taken: weight, height or length, crown-rump length, 4 circumferences, 4 skin fold thicknesses, and 2 breadths. Muscle, fat, and total upper arm areas and leg length were calculated. Indices of body proportionality were obtained by dividing the anthropometric variables by height. Height-for-age, weight-for-age, and weight-for-height deficits were 25.9%, 14.4%, and 3.5%, respectively. The smallest and lightest children were those with the highest abdominal circumferences divided by height. According to this study, abdominal circumference for Brazilian children without height-for-age deficit is, on average, 1.2 cm larger than for US children. Using this as a basis, the study calculated that prevalence of weight-for-height deficit would increase from 3.5% to 7.0% by increasing 2 cm in the abdominal circumference. The low prevalence of wasting and the high prevalence of stunting as indicated by several Brazilian studies could be explained partially by larger mean abdominal circumference values.

Variabilidade genética e herança da tolerância à toxicidade do alumínio em aveia

Abstract: Twenty-one oat (Avena sativa L.) genotypes from the Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul breeding program, in Brazil, were evaluated for their reaction to aluminum (Al) toxic levels in nutrient solutions. The Al levels tested were 5, 10, 15, 20 and 30 g kJ-1. The root regrowth was evaluated after 48 hours in presence of Al. Phenotypic variability was observed at 10 g kJ-1 and upper levels. Two groups were clearly distinguished at 20 g kJ-1 level, one of tolerant and the other of sensitive genotypes. The genetic bases of Al tolerance were determined on P1, P2, F1 and F2 generations of nine crosses among tolerant x sensitive genotypes. The tolerant response was conditioned by one gene with dominant effect. The wide sense heritability was intermediate to high, allowing selection of tolerant genotypes in early generations, followed by progeny test to identify homozygous lines. The results of this study suggest that the hydroponic method is reliable for screening germplasm to Al toxicity and may be used in the routine of oat breeding programs.

[Medical audit: prenatal care program in a health center in Southern Brazil].

Abstract: OBJETIVO: Descreve-se a auditoria medica realizada entre as mulheres que se inscreveram em programa de pre-natal com o objetivo de verificar as caracteristicas da assistencia a gestacao e de estabelecer diretrizes de atencao. METODOS: Realizou-se levantamento epidemiologico dos cartoes das gestantes inscritas no Programa de Pre-natal do Posto de Saude da Vila Municipal, Pelotas, RS, com data provavel de parto durante 1997 e no primeiro semestre de 1998. Foram incluidas as mulheres ingressadas no Programa ate o quarto mes de gestacao e que tiveram cinco consultas no minimo. Foi utilizada a analise bivariada para detectar as condicoes marcadoras da assistencia medica. RESULTADOS: Em 1997, 73 mulheres se inscreveram no Programa de Pre-natal e, em 1998, 75. A media de consultas durante o pre-natal foi de 5,2 em 1997 e 6,2 em 1998. Essa diferenca foi significativa (p<0,05). Analisaram-se diversos indicadores de processo medico que traduzem a qualidade da atencao. CONCLUSAO: Discutiu-se a utilidade do instrumental epidemiologico na organizacao de um servico de saude. Ressaltou-se que esse tipo de estudo e rapido, barato e fornece informacoes para o direcionamento das atividades dos servicos.

Progresso genético no melhoramento da aveia-branca no Sul do Brasil

Abstract: The oat (Avena sativa L.) cultivars cultivated in Southern Brazil up to the beginning of the 80's were introduced from Uruguay and Argentina. They presented adaptation problems to the new environment. Starting from the 70's, oat breeding programs began to produce their own segregant populations. These programs already released 35 cultivars. Aiming to estimate the genetic progress in oat breeding programs from southern Brazil, an experiment with 15 cultivars released in different times was conducted in two locations using four different cultural practices. The results indicated linear genetic progress for days to flowering, grain yield, grain weight and test weight. The non significance of quadratic effects suggested the possibility of additional gains through selection of new genotypes. The oat breeding programs in southern Brazil have been efficient in producing new cultivars with higher grain yield, good grain quality, and with superior agronomic traits. However, a maximum breeding plateau was not reached for this species.

Adultos livres de cárie: estudo de casos e controles sobre conhecimentos, atitudes e práticas preventivas

Abstract: Com o objetivo de investigar o efeito do conhecimento e atitudes pessoais, habitos de higiene oral e uso de fluoretos sobre a total ausencia de caries, realizou-se um estudo do tipo caso-controle entre estudantes universitarios da regiao sul do Brasil. A analise bruta por regressao logistica condicional nao demonstrou efeito para as variaveis relacionadas ao uso de fluoretos e habitos de higiene oral (p > 0,20). Ja o uso de fio dental apareceu como um fator de risco: os que afirmaram nao usa-lo apresentaram "odds ratio" (OR) bruto de 0,70, e de 0,73 quando ajustado para visitas regulares ao dentista. O efeito para as visitas regulares ao dentista foi de risco. Pessoas com historia de carie visitavam mais os profissionais. Aqueles com historia de carie apresentaram um "odds ratio" bruto de 1,55; apos o ajuste para uso de fio dental o risco foi levemente superior (OR = 1,67). Habitos de higiene oral nao demonstraram efeito protetor esperado. O uso de fluoretos nao esteve significativamente associado a ausencia de caries. Permanece intrigando o fato de que algumas pessoas nao desenvolvam caries, mesmo nao relatando cuidados considerados ideais a saude bucal.

Emergência no campo e crescimento inicial de aveia preta em resposta ao vigor das sementes

Abstract: Avaliou-se, em condicoes de campo, o efeito de diferentes niveis de vigor de sementes de aveia preta no desempenho das plantas resultantes, na ausencia de competicao entre plantas, com vistas a determinar alternativas de superacao ou minimizacao dos efeitos prejudiciais do baixo vigor de sementes. A reducao no vigor das sementes provocou reducoes de ate 50% na emergencia no campo. Provocou tambem retardamento de um a tres dias na emergencia e maior desuniformidade desta. Diferencas no vigor das sementes continuaram atuando em plantas isoladas de aveia preta apos a emergencia no campo, afetando a producao de materia seca e area foliar devido a producao de plântulas com maior tamanho inicial (24% superior aos sete dias apos a emergencia), o que proporcionou a manutencao de maiores taxas de crescimento da cultura ao longo do periodo avaliado, caracterizando um efeito indireto do vigor das sementes sobre o desempenho das plantas. Nao ocorreu, desse modo, um efeito direto do vigor das sementes sobre a habilidade dos tecidos de plantas de aveia preta realizar processos fisiologicos, isto e, converter radiacao solar em materia seca.

Correlações canônicas: II - análise do rendimento de grãos de feijão e seus componentes

Abstract: Thirty two bean genotypes (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) were evaluated in Lages/SC, Brazil, on the influence of seven characters of agronomic importance on the production of grains per unit of area. The experiment, in randomized blocks with four repetitions, was driven in the off season period in the agricultural year of 1995/96. This work aimed to estimate the intensity the association between the primary and secondary components of grain yield. The first group of variables (primary) was constituted by the number of grains per pod, number of pods per plant and the weight of a thousand grains. The second group (secondary) consisted of number of days from emergency to flowering, number of days from emergency to harvesting point, plant stature and the first pod insertion point. For the analysis of canonical correlations, the importance of secondary agronomic characters was evident in the traits number of pods per plant and grains per pod and also the influence of both on the final grain yield. Therefore, the coefficients of canonical correlations indicate that, in programs bean genetic improvement programs, to increase the production of grains one should select plants with larger number of pods per plant in order to obtain plants with higher stature and longer cycle.