Effect of silver diamine fluoride on the longevity of the bonding properties to caries-affected dentine.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the adhesive properties in dentine after the application of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) on carious dentine lesions immediately and after 2 years of water storage. METHODS: 96 human molars used were subjected to artificial dentine caries production, and then randomly divided into 12 experimental groups according to 1. application of an SDF solution (carious dentine lesion without SDF treatment [control], with 12 % silver diamine fluoride [SDF 12 %] or 38 % silver diamine fluoride [SDF 38 %]); 2. Universal adhesives (Clearfil Universal Bond Quick [CUQ] and Single Bond Universal [SBU]); 3. adhesive strategy (etch-and-rinse [ER] and self-etch [SE]). After restoration, the specimens were sectioned and submitted to the microtensile bond strength test (µTBS) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry analysis (SEM/EDX). All tests were performed immediately and after 2 years of water storage. Data from the µTBS were analyzed using four-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Only the interaction of factors 'SDF' vs 'time' was significant (p = 0.03). After 2 years of storage, the groups where SDF was applied showed higher µTBS values compared to the control group. No significant decrease in µTBS values was observed for SBU when comparing immediate and 2-year results, but a significant reduction in µTBS values was observed after 2 years for CUQ. CONCLUSION: Independent of the adhesive strategy, the use of SDF may be a promising alternative to maintain the bonding of universal adhesives to carious dentinal lesions. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: This study may clarify and support clinicians regarding the longevity of resin-based restoration in caries-affected dentine treated with silver diamine fluoride.

Effect of whitening products on sound enamel and on artificial caries lesions during a cariogenic challenge.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of fluoride-containing whitening products on sound enamel and on artificial caries lesions during a cariogenic challenge. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Bovine enamel specimens (n = 120) with three areas [non-treated sound enamel (NSE), treated sound enamel (TSE), and treated artificial caries lesion (TACL)] were randomly assigned to the four groups: whitening mouthrinse (WM: 2.5% hydrogen peroxide-100 ppm F-), placebo mouthrinse (PM: 0% hydrogen peroxide-100 ppm F-), whitening gel (WG: 10% carbamide peroxide-1130 ppm F-), and deionized water (negative control; NC). The treatments (2 min for WM, PM, and NC, and 2 h for WG) were carried out during a 28-day pH-cycling model (6 × 60 min demineralization/day). Relative surface reflection intensity (rSRI) and transversal microradiography (TMR) analyses were performed. Fluoride uptake (surface and subsurface) was measured in additional enamel specimens. RESULTS: For TSE, a higher value of rSRI was observed in WM (89.99% ± 6.94), and a greater decrease in rSRI was observed for WG and NC, and no sign of mineral loss was verified for all groups (p > 0.05). For TACL, rSRI significantly decreased after pH-cycling for all experimental groups with no difference between them (p < 0.05). Higher amounts of fluoride were found in WG. WG and WM exhibited intermediate values of mineral loss, similar to PM. CONCLUSIONS: The whitening products did not potentialize the enamel demineralization under a severe cariogenic challenge, and they did not exacerbate mineral loss of the artificial caries lesions. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Low concentrated hydrogen peroxide whitening gel and mouthrinse containing fluoride do not intensify the progression of caries lesions.

Systematic review and meta-analysis on physical barriers to prevent root dentin demineralization.

The present review systematically analyzed in vitro and in situ studies investigating physical diffusion barriers (sealants, desensitizer or adhesives) to prevent the development or the progression of root (dentin) demineralization. Three electronic databases (PubMed-Medline, CENTRAL, Ovid-EMBASE) were screened for studies from 1946 to 2022. Cross-referencing was used to identify further articles. Article selection and data abstraction were done in duplicate. Languages were not restricted. The type of outcome was not restricted, and their mean differences (MD) were calculated using fixed- or random-effects models. Risk of Bias was graded using Risk of Bias 2.0 tool. From 171 eligible studies, 34 were selected for full-text analysis evaluating 69 different materials, and 17 studies-still evaluating 36 different materials-were included (3 in situ and 14 in vitro). Ten studies evaluated desensitizers; 8 adhesives; and 1 infiltration. Meta-analyses were possible for all 17 studies. Meta-analyses revealed that lesion depth after no treatment was significantly higher than after the application of single-step adhesives (MD[95%CI] = - 49.82[- 69.34; - 30.30]) and multi-step adhesives (MD[95%CI]=-60.09 [-92.65, -27.54]). No significant differences in the lesion depth increase between single- and multi-step adhesives could be observed (MD[95%CI]=30.13 [-21.14, 81.39]). Furthermore, compared to no treatment the increase of the lesion depth was significantly hampered using desensitizers (MD[95%CI] = - 38.02[- 51.74; - 24.31]). Furthermore, the included studies presented unclear or high risk. A physical diffusion barrier can significantly hamper the increase of lesion depth under cariogenic conditions. Furthermore, multi-step adhesives seem not to be more effective than single-step adhesives. However, this conclusion is based on only few in vitro and in situ studies.

Safety and In Situ Antierosive Effect of CaneCPI-5 on Dental Enamel.

The sugarcane cystatin (CaneCPI-5) was recently cloned and showed strong binding force to dental enamel and protection against initial erosion. However, evaluations on its safety and efficacy in a situation closer to the clinical condition are necessary. In the present study we analyzed 1) the cytotoxicity of CaneCPI-5 on human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs); 2) the ability of CaneCPI-5 to reduce enamel erosion and erosion+abrasion in situ. In part 1, HGFs were treated with CaneCPI-5 (0.025, 0.05, 0.1, 0.5 or 1.0 mg/mL) or no treatment (control). The cytotoxicity was assessed after 60 s and 24 h by mitochondrial activity (MTT), confocal microscopy, and hematoxylin/eosin staining. In part 2, 15 volunteers participated in a double-blind crossover protocol consisting of 3 phases, according to the following treatments: 1) 0.1 mg/mL CaneCPI-5; 2) SnCl2/NaF/AmF (Elmex; positive control); 3) water (negative control). The volunteers wore an appliance containing 4 bovine enamel specimens for 5 d. Each day, the specimens were individually treated with 50 µL of the tested solutions per 60 s and then subjected to erosive challenges (0.1% citric acid, pH 2.5, for 90 s, 4 times per day). After the first and last erosive challenge each day, 2 samples were abraded (toothbrushing, 15 s). Enamel wear was measured by contact profilometry. One or two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA)/Tukey's or Sidak's tests (P < 0.05) were applied. Regardless of the concentration and the experimental time, CaneCPI-5 did not decrease the cell viability compared to the negative control (P < 0.05). Erosion+abrasion led to significantly greater wear compared to erosion only. For both conditions, the lowest wear was found for SnCl2 and CaneCPI-5, which did not differ significantly from each other, but showed significant protection when compared to the negative control. In conclusion, CaneCPI-5 is safe on HGFs and reduces enamel erosive wear to the same extent as a commercial solution used to control erosive tooth wear (ETW).

Efficacy of a self-assembling peptide to remineralize initial caries lesions - A systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVES: The present review systematically analyzed clinical studies investigating the efficacy of self-assembling peptides (SAP) to reduce initiation of or to remineralize initial caries lesions. DATA: Prospective controlled (non-)randomized clinical trials investigating the efficacy of a self-assembling peptide compared to any other (placebo) treatment or untreated/standard control. Outcomes were visual analog scale (VAS), laser fluorescence, ICDAS score or morphometric measurements. SOURCES: Three electronic databases (Central, PubMed, Ovid EMBASE) were screened. No language or time restrictions were applied.. Risk of Bias and level of evidence was graded using Risk of Bias 2.0 tool and Grade Profiler 3.6. STUDY SELECTION/RESULTS: Seven studies with 508 teeth being affected in 294 patients were included. All studies were randomized controlled trials (RCT), five with a split-mouth and two with a parallel-arm design. Meta-analysis could be performed for SAP (plus fluoride varnish (FV)) vs. no treatment (plus FV) (control treatment). Depending on the outcome after up to 12 months SAP showed a significantly higher optical improvement than the control treatment (laser fluorescence: Standardized Mean Difference (SMD)[95 %CI] = -0.87[-1.39,-0.34; VAS: Mean Difference (MD)[95 %CI] = -35.38[-43.13,-27.64]) or no significant difference could be observed (ICDAS/activity score; Relative Risk (RR)[95 %CI] = 0.6[0.21,1.74]; morphometric measurements: SMD[95 %CI] = -1.95[-4.54,0.65]). Level of evidence was very low for all 4 outcomes. Furthermore, six studies showed a high risk of bias and six studies were (partially) funded by the manufactures of the tested products. CONCLUSION: Based on a low number of clinical trials with relatively short follow up-periods and high risks of bias, self-assembling peptides may be a viable option to remineralize enamel caries. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Self-assembling peptides may be a viable option to remineralize enamel caries. However, results should be interpretated with caution due the low number of clinical trials, the short follow-up periods and the limiting grade of evidence.

Congenital and acquired defects in enamel of primary teeth: prevalence, severity and risk factors in Brazilian children.

OBJECTIVE: This cross-sectional study evaluated the prevalence of tooth enamel defects and risk factors associated in primary dentition. METHODS: A sample of 656 schoolchildren (population based), aged 4 years old, from Araraquara-SP (Brazil) was evaluated by two trained examiners according to the following indexes: Dental fluorosis (DF), deciduous molar hypomineralization (DMH), non-fluoride related developmental defects of enamel (DDE), tooth erosion and tooth attrition. Structured questionnaires identified socioeconomic condition, medical/dental history, behavior and dietary habits. Data were analyzed using Chi-square tests (p < 0.05). RESULTS: Of the enamel congenital defects, DF was the most prevalent (6.1%, n = 40), followed by DMH (5.6%, n = 37). Of the acquired defects, attrition was the most prevalent (36.9%, n = 242), followed by erosion (2.4%, n = 16). The caries experience was similar between the affected children (29,5%; n = 94) and total sample (30.6%; n = 201). The etiological factors related to congenital defects were: not exclusively fed breast milk (p = 0.003) and jaundice at birth (p < 0.001); the association with acquired defects was found with vomiting frequent episodes (p = 0.037). CONCLUSION: The general prevalence of enamel defects in primary dentition in Araraquara was 48.6%. Enamel defects may be associated with health-related factors and current lifestyle.

Analytical strategies for clinical studies on dental erosive wear.

BACKGROUND: There is a need for analytical techniques for measuring Erosive Tooth Wear (ETW) on natural surfaces in clinical studies. The purpose was to investigate the use of two instruments aimed to assess initial to more advanced stages of ETW. METHODS: Human premolar enamel samples (2x3mm) (n = 24), were polished flat and mounted in resin cylinders (4 cylinders, 6 samples in each). Part 1: Baseline analyses by White Light Interferometer (WLI), Surface Reflection Intensity (SRI: TableTop and OptiPen) and Surface Hardness (SH). Erosion (1% citric acid (pH 3.6) for 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 min. SRI and SH analyses after every erosion episode and by WLI after 10 min. New indentations were made and enamel loss; was measured by change in indentation depths from toothbrush abrasion (200 g, 60 strokes, 30 s). Another series of 2 × 5 min erosion (totally15 min and 20 min) was analysed with SH and SRI after each erosion, and by WLI (on samples and impressions of samples) after 20 min. Part 2 investigated WLI performance in the interface where initial erosion increases in severity and substance loss occurs. The samples were repolished. Baseline analyses by WLI, SRI (TableTop and OptiPen) and SH. Four cylinders were etched for 1, 2, 4, 8 min respectively and analysed by SRI, SH on samples, and WLI on samples and impressions). RESULTS: Part1: SRI decreased from baseline to ~ 6 min etch and increased slightly after abrasion, the two devices correlated well (ICC 0.98 p < 0.001, Spearmans rs 0.91 p < 0.001). SH decreased nearly linearly to 10 min etch, but increased distinctly after abrasion. Mean enamel loss from abrasion alone was 0.2 µm (change in indentation depths). After 10 min etch, it was 0.27 µm (WLI) and after 20 min etch, it was 2.2 µm measured on samples vs 2.4 µm on impressions of samples (7% higher). Part 2: From baseline to 8 min etch; SRI and SH decreased whereas WLI presented increasing etch depths. CONCLUSIONS: With some adjustments, the use of SRI and WLI in combination seems to be a promising strategy for monitoring ETW in clinical studies.

Biology of Corythucha gossypii Fabricius, 1794 (Hemiptera: Tingidae) in Ricinus communis at different temperatures and thermal requirements / Biologia de Corythucha gossypii Fabricius, 1794 (Hemiptera: Tingidae) em Ricinus communis em diferentes temperaturas e exigências térmicas

Abstract We studied the biology of Corythucha gossypii in Ricinus communis under different temperatures in climatic chambers adjusted at 20, 23, 25, and 28 °C, 60 ± 10% relative humidity, and a 12-h photoperiod. The development period and viability of eggs, the development period and survival rate of nymphs, and egg-adult cycle of C. gossypii as well as the adult longevity and fecundity were estimated. The thermal requirements (K) and temperature-base (Tb) were estimated for each of the immature stages and for the eggs-adults period. The duration of the eggs and nymphs phases and the egg-adult cycle of the C. gossypii on castor bean leaves at 20-28 °C were 7.6-17 days, 10.2-27.5 days, and 16.9-44.5 days, respectively. The lower temperature inhibited the oviposition of C. gossypii, whereas the higher temperatures were most favorable for its development. The municipalities of the Bahia state of Brumado, Irecê, Itaberaba, Jacobina, and Senhor do Bonfim were estimated to have a high potential for the population growth of C. gossypii. However, a greater number of generations per year of C. gossypii were observed in the municipalities of Brumado and Itaberaba.

Resumo Estudamos a biologia de Corythucha gossypii em Ricinus communis sob diferentes temperaturas em câmaras climatizadas ajustadas as temperaturas de 20, 23, 25 e 28 °C, umidade relativa de 60 ± 10% e fotoperíodo de 12 horas. O período de desenvolvimento e a viabilidade dos ovos, o período de desenvolvimento e a taxa de sobrevivência de ninfas e do ciclo de ovo-adulto de C. gossypii, bem como a longevidade dos adultos e fecundidade foram estimados. As exigências térmicas (K) e as temperaturas-bases (Tb) foram estimadas para cada um dos estádios imaturos e para o ciclo de ovo-adulto. A duração das fases de ovos e ninfas e do ciclo de ovo a adulto de C. gossypii em folhas de mamona a 20-28 °C foram de 7,6-17 dias, 10,2-27,5 dias e 16,9-44,5 dias, respectivamente. A temperatura mais baixa inibiu a oviposição de C. gossypii , enquanto as temperaturas mais altas foram favoráveis ao seu desenvolvimento. Os municípios do estado da Bahia de Brumado, Irecê, Itaberaba, Jacobina e Senhor do Bonfim foram estimados para ter um alto potencial para o crescimento populacional de C. gossypii. No entanto, o maior número de gerações por ano de C. gossypii foi observado nos municípios de Brumado e Itaberaba.

The use of fluoride for the prevention of dental erosion and erosive tooth wear in children and adolescents.

BACKGROUND: Erosive tooth wear (ETW) has gained increasing clinical relevance. It is estimated that worldwide 30-50% of deciduous and 20-45% of permanent teeth are affected. One of the most important nutritional factors causing ETW is the overconsumption of soft drinks, but also patient-related factors like reflux or eating disorders can lead to erosive lesions. Whether acids lead to erosive demineralisation depends on their degree of saturation with respect to tooth mineral at their actual pH. REVIEW: Fluoride compounds like sodium or amine fluoride seem to be of limited efficacy against erosion, the main reason for this is the missing biofilm in the erosive process as well as the lower pH of the acids compared to bacterial acids. This means that to achieve some kind of preventive effect it would be necessary to use products with higher fluoride concentration, which is not an appropriate option for small children, and/or to increase the frequency of application. In addition, the fluoride compound plays a role as promising effects were found when fluoride is combined with titanium or stannous ions. TiF4 can cause acid-resistant surface coatings and when Sn2+/F- formulations are applied, Sn is not only found on the surface but is also incorporated into enamel and dentine. Both effects make the tooth surface more resistant against acid demineralisation. Different fluoride-containing vehicles have been tested to prevent erosion/ETW, such as toothpastes, rinses, gels and varnishes. Toothpastes offer some degree of protection, especially Sn2+-containing formulations, but effects of the active ingredients are sometimes counteracted by the presence of abrasives. CONCLUSION: Detecting associated factors and influencing them is the main instrument in arresting erosive tooth wear. Additionally, patients at risk for dental erosion should always use an additional fluoride source preferably containing Sn2+.

Biology of Corythucha gossypii Fabricius, 1794 (Hemiptera: Tingidae) in Ricinus communis at different temperatures and thermal requirements.

We studied the biology of Corythucha gossypii in Ricinus communis under different temperatures in climatic chambers adjusted at 20, 23, 25, and 28 °C, 60 ± 10% relative humidity, and a 12-h photoperiod. The development period and viability of eggs, the development period and survival rate of nymphs, and egg-adult cycle of C. gossypii as well as the adult longevity and fecundity were estimated. The thermal requirements (K) and temperature-base (Tb) were estimated for each of the immature stages and for the eggs-adults period. The duration of the eggs and nymphs phases and the egg-adult cycle of the C. gossypii on castor bean leaves at 20-28 °C were 7.6-17 days, 10.2-27.5 days, and 16.9-44.5 days, respectively. The lower temperature inhibited the oviposition of C. gossypii, whereas the higher temperatures were most favorable for its development. The municipalities of the Bahia state of Brumado, Irecê, Itaberaba, Jacobina, and Senhor do Bonfim were estimated to have a high potential for the population growth of C. gossypii. However, a greater number of generations per year of C. gossypii were observed in the municipalities of Brumado and Itaberaba.

Digestible methionine+cysteine in the diet of commercial layers and its influence on the performance, quality, and amino acid profile of eggs and economic evaluation.

This work aimed at evaluating the effects of 4 digestible Met+Cys levels on the diet of commercial layers and their influence on the productive performance, quality, and amino acid profile of eggs and economic viability of the activity. A total of 576 white Lohmann LSL-Lite layers was distributed into 6 replicates of 24 birds for each diet. The experimental design was completely randomized, with 4 treatments defined by levels evaluated in the feed (0.465, 0.540, 0.581, and 0.647%). The productive performance was measured for 30 weeks. The quality (34 and 50 wk old) and the amino acid profile of eggs (43 wk old) also were evaluated. A linear positive response was observed at higher Met+Cys levels for feed intake, number of eggs per housed bird, and digestible Met+Cys intake. Egg production, egg weight, egg mass, feed efficiency, and weight gain had their optimal values determined by the quadratic regression model at 0.638, 0.654, 0.647, 0.644, and 0.613% digestible Met+Cys, respectively. In the 34th wk, eggshell thickness decreased linearly at higher Met+Cys levels. In the 50th week, the optimal levels detected for eggshell thickness and percentage were 0.571 and 0.570% digestible Met+Cys, respectively. The percentages of proteins, branched-chain amino acids (leucine, isoleucine, and valine), histidine, and proline in eggs (albumen+yolk) showed a linear negative response in function of higher Met+Cys levels. Higher digestible Met+Cys levels (>0.630%) led to a good performance of layers, while lower Met+Cys levels improved the eggshell quality of layers in peak production. Optimal Met+Cys levels may change according to the price of the synthetic amino acid.

Avaliação de dietas na reprodução de calopsitas e parâmetros reprodutivos / Diet assessment in cockatiels reproduction and reproductive parameters

As calopsitas são consideradas aves monogâmicas, atingem a maturidade sexual aos 12 meses, com postura variando entre três a sete ovos. São classificadas como granívoros, embora alguns estudos tenham demonstrado uma grande diversidade nos hábitos alimentares. Este trabalho foi realizado em caráter investigativo, com o objetivo de comparar o efeito de dietas na reprodução de calopsitas, assim como efetuar um levantamento dos parâmetros reprodutivos da espécie. O experimento foi feito na Universidade Federal de Lavras. As análises estatísticas foram realizadas utilizando-se o GLM do SAS (Statistical Analysis System, Cary, NC, USA). A variável ordem de postura apresentou significância (P<0,1) com as variáveis espessura da casca, peso do ovo e tempo de eclosão. A variável peso do ovo apresentou significância (P<0,1) com as variáveis, ordem de postura e largura do ovo. Os resultados encontrados neste estudo suportam a conclusão de que a dieta formulada conseguiu suprir as necessidades nutricionais das calopsitas na fase reprodutiva, não afetando a qualidade e a fertilidade dos ovos.(AU)

Cockatiels are monogamous birds that reach sexual maturity at twelve months, with posture ranging from three to seven eggs. They are classified as granivores, although some studies have shown a great diversity in eating habits. This work was performed in investigative character, in order to compare the effect of diet on reproduction of cockatiels and perform a survey of reproductive parameters of the species. The experiment was conducted at the Federal University of Lavras. Statistical analyzes were performed using the SAS GLM (Statistical Analysis System, Cary, NC, USA). The variable order posture showed significance (P<0.1) with the variables, shell thickness, egg weight and time of hatching. The variable egg weight showed significance (P<0.1) with the variables posture order and width of the egg. The results found in this study support the conclusion that the formulated diet was able to satisfy the nutritional needs of the calopsitas in the reproductive phase, not affecting the quality and the fertility of the eggs.(AU)

The effect of different salivary calcium concentrations on the erosion protection conferred by the salivary pellicle.

Different proportions of mineral ions in saliva can influence the protective effect the salivary pellicle provides against dental erosion. To investigate the effect of different calcium concentrations in human saliva on the protection against enamel erosion, enamel specimens were divided into 8 treatment groups: humid chamber (Ctrl); whole mouth stimulated human saliva (HS); artificial saliva containing different calcium concentrations (ASlow, ASmedium, AShigh); and dialysed human saliva containing different calcium concentrations (DSlow, DSmedium, DShigh). The specimens underwent 4 cycles of incubation in the treatment group followed by an erosive challenge. Surface hardness and calcium release were measured during the cycling process. All DS groups exhibited significantly higher enamel surface softening than HS and the corresponding AS groups. Among the DS groups, the surface softening was significantly higher in DSlow than in DShigh. No significant differences were found within the AS or DS groups regarding calcium release. The results of this study indicated that erosion protection conferred by saliva depends on an interplay between salivary proteins and ions. While both proteins and ions have a positive effect on their own, the combination of the two can lead to different degrees of protection or even negative effects, depending on the relative concentrations.

Natural variation of selenium in Brazil nuts and soils from the Amazon region.

Brazil nut tree (Bertholletia excelsa) is native of the Amazon rainforest. Brazil nuts are consumed worldwide and are known as the richest food source of selenium (Se). Yet, the reasoning for such Se contents is not well stablished. We evaluated the variation in Se concentration of Brazil nuts from Brazilian Amazon basin, as well as soil properties, including total Se concentration, of the soils sampled directly underneath the trees crown, aiming to investigate which soil properties influence Se accumulation in the nuts. The median Se concentration in Brazil nuts varied from 2.07 mg kg-1 (in Mato Grosso state) to 68.15 mg kg-1 (in Amazonas state). Therefore, depending on its origin, a single Brazil nut could provide from 11% (in the Mato Grosso state) up to 288% (in the Amazonas state) of the daily Se requirement for an adult man (70 µg). The total Se concentration in the soil also varied considerably, ranging from <65.76 to 625.91 µg kg-1, with highest Se concentrations being observed in soil samples from the state of Amazonas. Se accumulation in Brazil nuts generally increased in soils with higher total Se content, but decreased under acidic conditions in the soil. This indicates that, besides total soil Se concentration, soil acidity plays a major role in Se uptake by Brazil nut trees, possibly due to the importance of this soil property to Se retention in the soil.

Undifferentiated carcinoma of the pancreas in a cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus): case report / Carcinoma indiferenciado de pâncreas em calopsitas (Nymphicus hollandicus): relato de caso

Undifferentiated carcinoma of the pancreas is a malignant neoplasm that is uncommon among domestic species, especially cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus), one of the most popular birds kept as a pet throughout the world. The aim of this study was to describe the occurrence of an undifferentiated carcinoma in the pancreas of a cockatiel. A bird, an adult male that died naturally with swelling in the abdominal region, was referred to necropsy. Macroscopic examination showed poor body condition, the coelomic cavity filled with liquid and a white mass attached to the pancreas and other smaller masses attached to the duodenum. Tissue samples and organs were harvested and fixed in 10% buffered formalin, then routinely processed for histopathology and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Microscopic analysis demonstrated an epithelial neoplasia with a predominantly solid pattern, lymphatic invasion and involvement of the intestinal serous membrane. These findings indicate the occurrence of an undifferentiated pancreatic carcinoma in a cockatiel that was diagnosed by histopathology.(AU)

O carcinoma indiferenciado de pâncreas é uma neoplasia maligna, incomum entre as espécies domésticas, especialmente em calopsitas (Nymphicus hollandicus), uma das aves mais populares como animal de companhia no mundo. O objetivo deste trabalho foi descrever a ocorrência de carcinoma indiferenciado de pâncreas em Nymphicus hollandicus. Uma ave, macho adulto, com morte natural e com aumento de volume em região abdominal, foi encaminhada para necropsia. Ao exame macroscópico foram observados mau estado corporal, cavidade celômica repleta de líquido e massa esbranquiçada aderida ao pâncreas e outra menor aderida ao duodeno. Amostras de tecidos e órgãos foram colhidas em formol 10% tamponado, processadas rotineiramente para histopatologia e coradas por hematoxilina e eosina. Na microscopia foi observada neoplasia epitelial com padrão predominantemente sólido, com invasão linfática e implantação na serosa intestinal. Com esses achados, comprovou-se a ocorrência de carcinoma indiferenciado de pâncreas em Nymphicus hollandicus, o qual pode ser diagnosticado por meio de histopatologia.(AU)

Food preferences of cockatiel chicks (Nymphicus hollandicus) in captivity / Preferência alimentar de filhotes de calopsitas (Nymphicus hollandicus) mantidos em cativeiro

In order to improve the management and maintenance of the quality of life of captive wild birds, this study aimed to assess the food preferences of cockatiel chicks (Nymphicus hollandicus) kept in captivity. Thirty-two cockatiel chicks, three to 12 months of age, were kept in a galvanized, wire-netted vivarium with six ceramic feeders, two for an extruded diet, two for a dry-mashed diet and two for a seed mixture. Both extruded and dry-mashed food are commercial psittacine diets. Three round ceramic pots were used to provide water. The birds were exposed to 12 hours of artificial light (40 W incandescent lamps) during the experimental period of 27 days. The birds were observed by video filming, daily, through an ad libitum observation technique. The food consumption was 3.34±0.42g/bird/day of extruded feed, 1.58±0.44g/bird/day of dry-mashed diet and 3.73±0.10g/bird/day of seed mixture. In conclusion, the cockatiel chicks preferred the seed mixture and the extruded food over the dry-mashed diet.(AU)

Considerando a busca por melhorias no manejo e na manutenção da qualidade de vida de aves selvagens cativas, este trabalho teve como objetivo a avaliação da preferência alimentar de filhotes de calopsitas (Nymphicus hollandicus) mantidos em cativeiro. Trinta e dois filhotes de calopsitas com idade entre três e 12 meses de idade foram alojados em um viveiro de arame galvanizado contendo seis comedouros de cerâmica, sendo dois para ração extrusada, dois para ração farinhada e dois para a mistura de sementes. Tanto a ração extrusada quanto a ração farinhada são dietas comerciais para psitacídeos. Três potes redondos de cerâmica foram usados para fornecer água. As aves foram expostas a 12 horas de luz artificial (40W lâmpadas incandescentes) durante o período experimental de 27 dias. As aves foram observadas por filmagens de vídeo, diariamente, por meio de uma técnica de observação ad libitum. O consumo alimentar foi de 3,34±0,42g/ave/dia de ração extrusada, 1,58±0,44g/ave/dia de ração farinhada e 3,73±0,10g/ave/dia de mistura de sementes. Em conclusão, os filhotes de calopsitas preferiram a mistura de sementes e a ração extrusada em relação à ração farinhada.(AU)

Use of collard green stalks as environmental enrichment for cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus) kept in captivity / Utilização de talos de couve como enriquecimento ambiental para calopsitas (Nymphicus hollandicus) mantidas em cativeiro

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of collard green stalks as environmental enrichment on the behavior of cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus) maintained in captivity. Sixteen birds were housed individually in cages and fed a commercial diet for parrots and seed mix, with water ad libitum during 12 days in climatic chamber with temperature and relative humidity simulating tropical conditions. The animals (n = 8) were divided into two groups, control and enriched, and the experimental period was divided into two phases (during and after enrichment) of four days each. The collard green stalks were used as enrichment only during the first period of the experiment, daily changed and maintained only during the day. The stalks increased the feed intake and decreased the sleep activities. No effect was observed on the body surface temperature, locomotion, maintenance and other resting activities. Small undesirable activities were detected. It was concluded that collard green stalks can be used as environmental enrichment, becoming part of food preferences of cockatiels. However, its use does not significantly alter the behavior of birds kept in captivity.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a influência de talos de couve como enriquecimento ambiental sobre o comportamento de calopsitas (Nymphicus hollandicus) mantidas em cativeiro. Dezesseis aves foram alojadas individualmente em gaiolas e alimentadas com dieta comercial para psitacídeos e mistura de sementes, com água ad libitum durante 12 dias, em câmara climática com temperatura e umidade relativa do ar simulando condições tropicais. Os animais (n=8) foram divididos em dois grupos, controle e enriquecido, e o período experimental foi dividido em duas fases (durante e após o enriquecimento) de quatro dias cada. Os talos de couve foram usados como enriquecimento apenas durante o primeiro período do experimento, trocados diariamente e mantidos apenas durante o dia. Os talos aumentaram o consumo de ração e diminuíram o comportamento dormir. Nenhum efeito foi observado nas outras atividades de descanso, na temperatura da superfície corporal, na locomoção e manutenção. Foram detectadas pequenas atividades indesejáveis. Concluiu-se que os talos de couve podem ser usados como enriquecimento ambiental, formando parte das preferências alimentares de calopsitas. No entanto, seu uso não altera de maneira expressiva o comportamento das aves.(AU)

Erosive effect of different dietary substances on deciduous and permanent teeth.

OBJECTIVES: We investigated the effect of different dietary substances on deciduous and permanent enamel. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Enamel specimens were prepared from human teeth (n = 108 deciduous molars and n = 108 permanent premolars). We measured the chemical parameters (pH, titratable acidity, viscosity, calcium, phosphate, fluoride concentration and degree of saturation) of nine dietary substances. The teeth were immersed in the respective substance (2 × 2 min; 30 °C; shaking), and we measured the baseline surface hardness (SH) in Vickers hardness numbers (VHN), and the changes in SH after 2 min (ΔSH2-0) and the 4 min (ΔSH4-0) immersion. We analysed the differences between deciduous and permanent teeth using the Wilcoxon test and correlated ΔSH to the different chemical parameters. RESULTS: Deciduous teeth were significantly softer (549.53 ± 59.41 VHN) than permanent teeth (590.15 ± 55.31 VHN; p < 0.001) at baseline, but they were not more vulnerable to erosive demineralization. Only orange juice, which presented milder erosive potential, caused significantly more demineralisation in deciduous teeth at ΔSH4-0. Practically all chemical parameters significantly correlated with ΔSH (p < 0.05). Substances with lower pH, higher titratable acidity, lower Ca, higher Pi and lower F concentrations, higher viscosity and more undersaturated solutions presented more erosive demineralisation. CONCLUSION: Different parameters in dietary substances affect erosive demineralisation in deciduous and permanent teeth, but we generally observed no differences in susceptibility to erosion between both types of teeth; only orange juice (less severe acid conditions) caused perceptible differences. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: We observe that permanent teeth are harder than deciduous teeth, but most substances cause no perceptible difference in erosive demineralisation in both types of teeth.

Age-related morphological, histological and functional changes in teeth.

Throughout lifetime, the teeth are continuously exposed to numerous chemical and physical impacts, which cause the wear of the dental hard tissues, gingival recession and other oral changes with sometimes subsequent problems. Age-related wear of tooth surfaces reduces the dental enamel thickness and exposes deeper layers of enamel, which have different physical and chemical properties than the surface enamel. Gingival recession is the main causal factor of root caries and dentine hypersensitivity. Age-related changes in dentine include the formation of secondary dentine and the reduction in tubular lumen diameter (dentine sclerosis), which lead to a reduction in the volume of the pulp chamber. In addition to the reduction in the volume of pulp chamber, changes to the dental pulp also include dental pulp calcifications. The age-related physiological changes to the teeth should be carefully distinguished from pathological changes, especially when they induce pain or a negative impact on the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of the older individuals. Therefore, regular oral examinations coupled with early preventive measures should aim at maintaining oral health until old age.

Erosion protection conferred by whole human saliva, dialysed saliva, and artificial saliva.

During dental erosion, tooth minerals are dissolved, leading to a softening of the surface and consequently to irreversible surface loss. Components from human saliva form a pellicle on the tooth surface, providing some protection against erosion. To assess the effect of different components and compositions of saliva on the protective potential of the pellicle against enamel erosion, we prepared four different kinds of saliva: human whole stimulated saliva (HS), artificial saliva containing only ions (AS), human saliva dialysed against artificial saliva, containing salivary proteins and ions (HS/AS), and human saliva dialysed against deionised water, containing only salivary proteins but no ions (HS/DW). Enamel specimens underwent four cycles of immersion in either HS, AS, HS/AS, HS/DW, or a humid chamber (Ctrl), followed by erosion with citric acid. During the cycling process, the surface hardness and the calcium released from the surface of the specimens were measured. The different kinds of saliva provided different levels of protection, HS/DW exhibiting significantly better protection than all the other groups (p < 0.0001). Different components of saliva, therefore, have different effects on the protective properties of the pellicle and the right proportions of these components in saliva are critical for the ability to form a protective pellicle.