First Record of the Genus Trochiliphagus Carriker 1960 (Amblycera: Ricinidae) Infesting a Hummingbird from Brazil.

Four genera and at least fifty species of chewing lice have been recorded infesting hummingbirds (Trochilidae). Here, we record for the first time, the genus Trochiliphagus in Brazil, as well as, a new host record for Trochiliphagus mellivorus Carriker, the fork-tailed woodnymph, Thalurania furcata.

Introduction of a model for the modification of masticatory activity to investigate induced neural and behavioral alterations in mice.

In the literature, there is consistent evidence related to the influence of chewing on brain functions, either from experimental models or in humans. In the case of humans, most results are restricted to functional tests, lacking cellular or molecular evidence. In the described method, the possibility of using experimental models is presented, as well as the mimicry of deprivation and rehabilitation of masticatory activity and without stress impact. By opting for the use of mash feed, instead of extracting or implanting an intraoral device, alternations between restriction and rehabilitation of mastication were imposed on murine models. The animals completed various temporal windows, with aging also representing a potential factor for translational dementia associations. Additionally, animals were segregated into environments characterized as either standard, simulating a sedentary lifestyle, or enriched, rich in sensorimotor and visuospatial stimulation. Thus, it was possible to study the influence of changes in masticatory activity, associated with aging and environmental enrichment, on cells from subregions of the hippocampus, as well as on performance in tests of learning and spatial memory.•Animal model for masticatory activity alteration;•Masticatory deprivation and rehabilitation, and•Models to study the interaction among masticatory activity, aging and enrichment environment.

Association between Self-Perception of Chewing, Chewing Behavior, and the Presence of Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Candidates for Bariatric Surgery.

Given the changes in the digestive tract post-bariatric surgery, adapting to a new pattern of eating behavior becomes crucial, with special attention to the specifics of chewing mechanics. This study aimed to investigate the association between self-perception of chewing, chewing behavior, and the presence of gastrointestinal symptoms in preoperative patients undergoing bariatric surgery. Sixty adult candidates for bariatric surgery at a public hospital in Belém (Brazil) were analyzed. Participants predominantly exhibited unilateral chewing patterns (91.6%), a fast chewing rhythm (73.3%), a large food bolus (80%), liquid intake during meals (36.7%), and 41.7% reported that chewing could cause some issue. Significant associations were found between the perception of causing problems and chewing scarcity (p = 0.006), diarrhea (p = 0.004), absence of slow chewing (p = 0.048), and frequent cutting of food with front teeth (p = 0.034). These findings reveal a relationship between the perception of chewing problems and chewing scarcity, presence of diarrhea, and fast chewing.

Determination of Micromovements in Removable Prosthesis during Mastication: A Pilot Study with 3D Electromagnetic Articulography.

Edentulism can generate negative impacts on self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, and oral functions. Removable prostheses are commonly used for tooth replacement, but they may cause discomfort due to micromovements during mastication. Objective and quantifiable methods are needed to evaluate these micromovements. A pilot study was conducted to determine the micromovements in removable prostheses during mastication using a 3D electromagnetic articulography (EMA-3D) system. One elderly participant wearing lower removable prostheses and an upper total well-fitting removable prosthesis was studied. The EMA-3D system was used to record movements in three spatial planes. Peanuts were given as test food, and the participant was instructed to chew normally while recordings were carried out until feeling the need to swallow. Analyses of the upper total prosthesis show micromovements ranging from 0.63 ± 0.11 to 1.02 ± 0.13 mm. During simultaneous analyses of the upper prosthesis and lower partial prosthesis, interference was not observed. This pilot study demonstrated the feasibility of using the EMA-3D system to evaluate micromovements in removable prostheses during mastication. Further research is needed to evaluate a larger sample and assess the clinical implications of these micromovements.

Eutrichophilus cordiceps Mjöberg, 1910 (Ischnocera: Trichodectidae) in Spiny Tree Porcupines (Coendou villosus): New locality records and the first molecular evidence of association with Bartonella sp.

The chewing louse genus Eutrichophilus Mjöberg has 19 species only associated with porcupines (Rodentia: Erethizontidae). Of these species, E. cercolabes, E. cordiceps, E. emersoni, E. minor, E. moojeni, and E. paraguayensis have been recorded in Brazil. In the present study, we report E. cordiceps for the first time in the São Paulo State (Bauru Municipality) and for the second time in the Santa Catarina State (Lages Municipality), providing scanning electron images and light microscopy for the eggs, as well as the first molecular data (18S rRNA) for the genus. Additionally, Bartonella sp. was detected for the first time in this chewing lice species.

Co-infestation caused by Goniodes pavonis (L., 1758) (Ischnocera: Goniodidae) and Goniocotes rectangulatus Nitzsch [In Giebel], 1866 on white Indian peafowl, Pavo cristatus L., 1758 (Galliformes: Phasianidaede) in Brazil.

The genus Goniodes Nitzsch and Goniocotes Burmeister (Ischnocera: Goniogodidae) are distributed worldwide, and exclusively parasitizing avian hosts of the Galliformes. In Brazil, there are only four species recorded: Goniodes dissimilis Denny, Goniodes gigas (Taschenberg), Goniodes pavonis (L.), and Goniocotes gallinae (DeGeer). In the present study, we are reporting the co-parasitism of G. pavonis and G. rectangulatus Nitzsch [In Giebel] on specimens of the white Pavo cristatus, popularly known as 'white Indian peafowl' for the first time. Furthermore, a new Brazilian locality for G. pavonis species has been reported, as well as the first time that G. rectangulatus is reported to Brazil. Additionally, we provide the first molecular information for G. pavonis.

Effect of artificial eccentric occlusal interferences on masticatory performance: A randomised double-blind clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Occlusal interferences lead to changes in mandibular kinematics to compensate and improve function. However, the effects of different types of eccentric disturbance on the comminution capacity are not known. OBJECTIVE: To determine the immediate effect of eccentric occlusal interferences on masticatory performance. METHODS: This crossover clinical trial included 12 healthy dentate subjects aged 25.2 ± 3.3 years who were randomly submitted to seven types of occlusal interference: unilateral and bilateral laterotrusive and mediotrusive, protrusive, dummy and control (no interference). The interference forms were planned in a semi-adjustable articulator, fabricated with composite resin and adhered to the mandibular first molars such that subjects' maximum intercuspation was maintained. Masticatory performance and the chewing rate during 20 cycles were evaluated during subjects' comminution of silicone test food under one interference condition per test day; the multiple sieve method was applied to the comminuted particles. The interference was removed upon test completion, and a 1-week washout period was applied between tests. RESULTS: Comminuted median particle sizes were larger under unilateral (4.94 ± 0.41 mm) and bilateral (4.81 ± 0.49 mm) laterotrusive, bilateral mediotrusive (4.65 ± 0.50 mm) and protrusive (4.83 ± 0.54 mm) interferences (p < .05) than under the control (4.01 ± 0.52 mm) and dummy (4.18 ± 0.58 mm) conditions (p < .05). Only unilateral and bilateral laterotrusive interferences narrowed the comminuted particle size dispersion (p < .05). The chewing rate did not differ among conditions (p = .1944). CONCLUSION: Artificial eccentric interferences had an immediate adverse effect on masticatory performance by resulting in larger comminuted particles. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (RBR-8g5zfg8).

Masticatory performance, self-perception of oral health, oral health-related quality of life and nutritional status of completely edentulous elderly patients submitted to different rehabilitation treatments: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: The impact of treatments on completely edentulous individuals on masticatory performance (MP), oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL), nutritional status (NS) and socio-economic profile (SP) is unclear in the literature. OBJECTIVE: To compare the MP, OHRQoL, NS and SP of totally edentulous elderly users of bimaxillary complete dentures (CD) and users of lower implant-supported fixed complete dentures (IFCD). METHODS: Forty participants were allocated into groups according to rehabilitation treatment (n = 20): bimaxillary CD (G1) and lower IFCD, and upper CD (G2). The evaluation of MP used almonds by the method of sieves. Four questionnaires (Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index-GOHAI and Oral Health Impact Profile Edent-OHIP-Edent, Brazilian Economic Classification Criteria-ABEP and Mini Nutritional Assessment-MNA) were applied to assess the OHRQoL, SP and NS of the elderly, respectively. After evaluating the statistical assumptions, the Mann-Whitney (α = .05) test was applied to compare the groups regarding MP, OHRQoL, NS and SP. Spearman's correlation (α = .05) was performed to verify the correlation between the MP, the OHRQoL and the NS of the participants. RESULTS: G2 showed better MP (p < .05) in all masticatory cycles, OHRQoL (p < .05) and NS than the G1. However, the participants' self-perception of oral health did not differ between groups (p < .05). A moderate negative correlation was found between MP and OHRQoL for 40 masticatory cycles (r2 = -0.513; p = .001). CONCLUSION: Individuals rehabilitated with IFCD had a higher average monthly family income and achieved superior behaviour in MP and OHRQoL, in addition to lower risks of malnutrition when compared to individuals using bimaxillary CD.

Co-infestation caused by Goniodes pavonis (L., 1758) (Ischnocera: Goniodidae) and Goniocotes rectangulatus Nitzsch [In Giebel], 1866 on white Indian peafowl, Pavo cristatus L., 1758 (Galliformes: Phasianidaede) in Brazil

The genus Goniodes Nitzsch and Goniocotes Burmeister (Ischnocera: Goniogodidae) are distributed worldwide, and exclusively parasitizing avian hosts of the Galliformes. In Brazil, there are only four species recorded: Goniodes dissimilis Denny, Goniodes gigas (Taschenberg), Goniodes pavonis (L.), and Goniocotes gallinae (DeGeer). In the present study, we are reporting the co-parasitism of G. pavonis and G. rectangulatus Nitzsch [In Giebel] on specimens of the white Pavo cristatus, popularly known as ‘white Indian peafowl’ for the first time. Furthermore, a new Brazilian locality for G. pavonis species has been reported, as well as the first time that G. rectangulatus is reported to Brazil. Additionally, we provide the first molecular information for G. pavonis.

Relationship between mastication and malnutrition in community-dwelling older adults: a meta-analysis

ABSTRACT Purpose To determine the relationship between mastication and malnutrition in community-dwelling older adults. Research strategies To establish the eligibility criteria, the acronym PECOS was used: Population: non-institutionalized older adults; Exposure: older adults with malnutrition; Control: older adults without malnutrition; Outcome: masticatory problems in malnourished older adults; Study types: observational studies. Selection criteria It selected studies assessing malnutrition and mastication difficulties in non-institutionalized adults over 60 years old, of both sexes. Mastication and malnutrition were evaluated with questionnaires on self-reported symptoms and clinical and instrumental assessments. There were no restrictions on language, year of publication, or ethnicity. Data analysis The included studies were evaluated for methodological quality with the Joanna Briggs Institute tool for cross-sectional studies. For the cross-sectional studies included, the odds ratio (OR) was calculated with 95% confidence intervals. Results After searching the databases, 692 references were retrieved, with three studies selected for quantitative and qualitative analysis. The values obtained in the meta-analysis for association show that malnutrition and mastication difficulties were 2.21 times as likely to occur (OR = 2.21; 95%CI = 0.93 - 5.26; I2 = 94%) as individuals without malnutrition (p < 0.001). The assessment of the risk of bias presented a high-risk, a moderate-risk, and a low-risk study. The certainty of evidence was rated very low with the GRADE tool. Conclusion Individuals at risk of malnutrition are 2.21 times as likely to have mastication difficulties.

Chewing Analysis by Means of Electromagnetic Articulography: Current Developments and New Possibilities.

Chewing is a complex procedure that involves sensory feedback and motor impulses controlled by the trigeminal system in the brainstem. The analysis of mandibular movement is a first approximation to understanding these mechanisms. Several recording methods have been tested to achieve this. Video, ultrasound, the use of external markers and kinesiographs are examples of recording systems used in research. Electromagnetic articulography is an alternative method to those previously mentioned. It consists of the use of electromagnetic fields and receiver coils. The receiver coils are placed on the points of interest and the 3D coordinates of movement are saved in binary files. In the Oral Physiology Laboratory of the Dental Sciences Research Center (Centro de Investigación en Ciencias Odontológicas-CICO), in the Faculty of Dentistry at the Universidad de La Frontera (Temuco, Chile) several research studies have been carried out using the AG501 3D EMA articulograph (Carstens Medizinelektronik, Lenglern, Germany). With this device, they developed a series of protocols to record mandibular movement and obtain new information, such as the 3D Posselt polygon, the area of each polygon, individualized masticatory cycles and speed and acceleration profiles. Other investigations have analyzed these parameters, but separately. The AG501 allows for holistic analysis of all these data without altering natural movement. A limitation of this technology is the interference generated by its metallic elements. The aim of the present work is to show the developed methods used to record mandibular movement in the CICO, using the AG501 and compare them with others used in several research studies.

Comportamiento Mecánico de un Premolar Humano Sano Sometido a Fuerzas Funcionales y Disfuncionales en un MEF / Mechanical Behavior of a Healthy Human Premolar Subjected to Functional and Dysfunctional Forces in a FEM

El propósito de este estudio fue analizar el comportamiento mecánico de la estructura dental sana de un primer premolar inferior humano sometido a fuerzas funcionales y disfuncionales en diferentes direcciones. Se buscó comprender, bajo las variables contempladas, las zonas de concentración de esfuerzos que conllevan al daño estructural de sus constituyentes y tejidos adyacentes. Se realizó el modelo 3D de la reconstrucción de un archivo TAC de un primer premolar inferior, que incluyó esmalte, dentina, ligamento periodontal y hueso alveolar considerando tres variables: dirección, magnitud y área de la fuerza aplicada. La dirección fue dirigida en tres vectores (vertical, tangencial y horizontal) bajo cuatro magnitudes, una funcional de 35 N y tres disfuncionales de 170, 310 y 445 N, aplicadas sobre un área de la cara oclusal y/o vestibular del premolar que involucró tres contactos estabilizadores (A, B y C) y dos paradores de cierre. Los resultados obtenidos explican el fenómeno de combinar tres vectores, cuatro magnitudes y un área de aplicación de la fuerza, donde los valores de esfuerzo efectivo equivalente Von Mises muestran valores máximos a partir de los 60 MPa. Los valores de tensión máximos se localizan, bajo la carga horizontal a 170 N y en el proceso masticatorio en la zona cervical, cuando la fuerza pasa del 60 %. Sobre la base de los hallazgos de este estudio, se puede concluir que la reacción de los tejidos a fuerzas funcionales y disfuncionales varía de acuerdo con la magnitud, dirección y área de aplicación de la fuerza. Los valores de tensión resultan ser más altos bajo la aplicación de fuerzas disfuncionales tanto en magnitud como en dirección, produciendo esfuerzos tensiles significativos para la estructura dental y periodontal cervical, mientras que, bajo las cargas funcionales aplicadas en cualquier dirección, no se generan esfuerzos lesivos. Esto supone el reconocimiento del poder de detrimento estructural del diente y periodonto frente al bruxismo céntrico y excéntrico.

SUMMARY: The purpose of this study was to analyze the mechanical behavior of the healthy dental structure of a human mandibular first premolar subjected to functional and dysfunctional forces in different directions. It was sought to understand, under the contemplated variables, the areas of stress concentration that lead to structural damage of its constituents and adjacent tissues. The 3D model of the reconstruction of a CT file of a lower first premolar was made, which included enamel, dentin, periodontal ligament and alveolar bone considering three variables: direction, magnitude and area of the applied force. The direction was directed in three vectors (vertical, tangential and horizontal) under four magnitudes, one functional of 35 N and three dysfunctional of 170, 310 and 445 N, applied to an area of the occlusal and/or buccal face of the premolar that involved three stabilizing contacts (A, B and C) and two closing stops. The results obtained explain the phenomenon of combining three vectors, four magnitudes and an area of force application, where the values of effective equivalent Von Mises stress show maximum values from 60 MPa. The maximum tension values are located under the horizontal load at 170 N and in the masticatory process in the cervical area, when the force exceeds 60%. Based on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that the reaction of tissues to functional and dysfunctional forces varies according to the magnitude, direction, and area of application of the force. The stress values turn out to be higher under the application of dysfunctional forces both in magnitude and in direction, producing significant tensile stresses for the dental and cervical periodontal structure, while under functional loads applied in any direction, no damaging stresses are generated. This supposes the recognition of the power of structural detriment of the tooth and periodontium against centric and eccentric bruxism.

Side switch frequency while masticating different chewing materials, and its relationship with other masticatory behaviors and sensory perceptions.

OBJECTIVE: This cross-sectional study aimed to establish normative values for masticatory side switch (MSS) frequency in young Mexican adults and to assess the relationship between various indices and MSS frequency when masticating different chewing materials. DESIGN: We enrolled 101 dentate adults and performed four masticatory assays that involved masticating different chewing materials (i.e., two-colored chewing gum, sweet cracker, salty cracker, and bread). Participants were asked to eat and swallow these foods and to chew the gum for 40 cycles and the following indices were determined: MSS index (MSSI), unilateral chewing index, chewing cycle duration, and number of cycles before terminal swallowing. The participants then rated perceived flavor intensity, salivary flow, and muscle fatigue during each trial. RESULTS: The MSSI ranged from 0.03-0.06 (10th percentile) to 0.48-0.54 (90th percentile). A repeated-measures general linear model revealed a mean MSSI value of 0.28 (95 %CI, 0.25-0.30) adjusted by several factors. Male sex, soft food, and the last chewing period were associated with lower MSS frequency. Spearman's test showed a high correlation for the MSSI among the different foods. MSSI correlated negatively with the unilateral chewing index for each chewing material and with number of cycles for the sweet cracker. However, no significant correlation was detected between MSSI and sensory perception. CONCLUSIONS: In healthy dentate individuals, the mean MSS relative frequency is 25-30 % with an 80-central percentile of 5-50 % of the maximum possible side changes. Lower MSS frequencies were detected in men, when chewing soft food, and during the final chewing period.

Efecto del estrés agudo y de la variación del estímulo masticatorio sobre el dolor nociceptivo somático en un modelo murino

Introducción. El estrés agudo se relaciona con la enérgica liberación de catecolaminas, citoquinas y cortisol, las cuales afectan la percepción dolorosa. La masticación estimula neuronas serotoninérgicas, dichas neuronas modulan a las vías neurales del dolor; sin embargo, la relación entre dichas variables aún está en proceso de entendimiento. Objetivo. Determinar el efecto del estrés agudo y del estímulo masticatorio sobre el dolor. Métodos. Experimento que se desarrolló en el bioterio de la Facultad de Medicina de la UNMSM. 40 ratones Balb/c machos de 8 semanas de edad. Los ratones fueron asignados aleatoriamente en 5 grupos iguales. A: semana 1 sin ningún estímulo y semana 2 estimulo masticatorio + estrés. B: semana 1 sin ningún estímulo y semana 2 estrés. C: semana 1 estrés y semana 2 sin ningún estímulo. D: semana 1 estímulo masticatorio + estrés y semana 2 sin ningún estímulo. E: control, sin ningún estimulo. El dolor se evaluó en los 5 grupos a los 7 y 14 días mediante la prueba de tiempo de retirada de la cola ante estímulo térmico. Resultados. Se empleó la prueba de ANOVA para la evaluación intergrupo, no hallándose diferencia significativa. Mediante la prueba de t student para muestras relacionadas se hizo la evaluación intragrupo donde se encontró diferencia significativa entre los 7 vs los 14 días tanto en el grupo A (p=0,029) como en el grupo C (p=0,03). Conclusión. El efecto del estrés agudo sobre la percepción dolorosa fue disminuida por el estímulo masticatorio en ratones Balb/c.

Introduction. Acute stress is related to the energetic release of catecholamines, cytokines, and cortisol, which trigger pain perception. Chewing stimulates serotonergic neurons, these neurons modulate the neural pathways of pain; however, the relationship between these variables is still in the process of understanding. Objective. To determine the effect of acute stress and chewing stimulus on pain. Methods. an experiment that was developed in the Faculty of Medicine of the UNMSM. 40 eight-week-old male Balb/c mice were randomly assigned into 5 equal groups. A: week 1 without any stimulus and week 2 chewing stimulus + stress. B: week 1 without any stimulus and week 2 stress. C: week 1 stress and week 2 without any stimulus. D: week 1 masticatory stimulus + stress and week 2 without any stimulus. E: control, without any stimulus. Pain was assessed in the 5 groups at 7 and 14 days using the tail-withdrawal time test before thermal stimulation. Results. The ANOVA test was used for the intergroup evaluation, finding no significant difference. Using the t student test for related samples, the intragroup evaluation was made, where a significant difference was found between 7 vs. 14 days, both in group A (p=0.029) and in group C (p=0.03). Conclusion. The effect of acute stress on pain perception was decreased by chewing stimulus in Balb/c mice.

A dentição do idoso e as implicações alimentares / The dentition of the elderly and the food implications / La dentición de los ancianos y las implicaciones alimentarias

O envelhecimento acarreta mudanças em todos os aspectos da vida, sendo caracterizado por uma modificação nas funções sociais, mentais e corporais. No Sistema Estomatoglossognático, é possível observar alterações significativas, começando pela fase preparatória da deglutição e da função de mastigação, decorrente da perda dos dentes, a qual é responsável pela trituração do alimento, formação do bolo alimentar e perda do tônus dos músculos que são responsáveis pelos movimentos mastigatórios. Esta pesquisa observou como as alterações dentárias em idosos podem repercutir na sua alimentação. Foi realizado um estudo observacional transversal, com amostra de 33 idosos frequentadores da Igreja Evangélica Assembleia de Deus em Alagoas, no município de Coqueiro Seco. Foi feita aplicação de um instrumento de coleta, o qual possuía perguntas baseadas no MBGR e na escala EAT-10. Os resultados mostraram que há um grande número de idosos que fazem uso de prótese dentária, refletindo na execução da função mastigatória, escolha da consistência alimentar e aspectos socioemocionais. As próteses dentárias, quando bem adaptadas, podem gerar um ganho significativo ao paciente, permitindo uma alimentação que não interfere na sua postura social, nem em suas questões emocionais. (AU)

Aging causes changes in all aspects of life, being characterized by a change in social, mental and bodily functions. In the Stomatoglossognathic System, it is possible to observe significant changes, starting with the preparatory phase of swallowing and the chewing function, resulting from the loss of teeth; which is responsible for crushing food, formation of food bolus and loss of muscle tone that are responsible for masticatory movements. This research observed how dental changes in the elderly can affect their diet. A cross-sectional observational study was carried out, with a sample of 33 elderly people attending the Evangelical Assembly of God Church in Alagoas, in the municipality of Coqueiro Seco. A collection instrument was applied, which had questions based on the MBGR and the EAT-10 scale. The results showed that there is a large number of elderly people who use dental prosthesis, reflecting on the performance of masticatory function, choice of food consistency and socio-emotional aspects. Dental prostheses, when well adapted, can generate a significant gain for the patient, allowing a diet that does not interfere with their social posture, nor with their emotional issues. (AU)

El envejecimiento provoca cambios en todos los aspectos de la vida, caracterizándose por un cambio en las funciones sociales, mentales y corporales. En el Sistema Estomatoglosognático, es posible observar cambios significativos, a partir de la fase preparatoria de la deglución y de la función masticatoria, resultantes de la pérdida de dientes; que se encarga de triturar los alimentos, formación de bolos alimenticios y pérdida de tono muscular que son responsables de los movimientos masticatorios. Esta investigación observó cómo las alteraciones dentales en los adultos mayores pueden afectar su alimentación. Se realizó un estudio observacional transversal, con una muestra de 33 ancianos asistentes a la Iglesia Evangélica Asamblea de Dios de Alagoas, en el municipio de Coqueiro Seco. Se aplicó un instrumento de recolección, el cual contó con preguntas basadas en el MBGR y la escala EAT-10. Los resultados mostraron que existe un gran número de ancianos que utilizan prótesis dental, reflexionando sobre el desempeño de la función masticatoria, elección de la consistencia de los alimentos y aspectos socioemocionales. Las prótesis dentales, bien adaptadas, pueden generar una ganancia importante para el paciente, permitiendo una alimentación que no interfiere con su postura social, ni con sus problemas emocionales. (AU)

New records, and molecular detection of vector-borne pathogens in Felicola subrostratus from eastern Mexico.

The study of lice associated with domestic cats is a neglected area of veterinary parasitology. In particular, the presence of the cat louse Felicola subrostratus, a small Ischnoceran species found in the fur of the domestic cat, is rarely recognized. In America, this species has been reported across six countries. Although it was also recently reported in Mexico, no studies on the molecular identification of the specimens or the monitoring of potential bacterial, and protozoan pathogens have been carried out. Thus, this work aimed to collect, and identify lice associated with domestic and free ranging cats from the states of Veracruz and Tabasco, using amplification and sequencing of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), and the ribosomal 18S rDNA genes, and to monitor selected vector-borne bacterial (Bartonella, Mycoplasma, and Rickettsia) and protozoan (Babesia, and Hepatozoon) agents. Only entire lice were used for molecular host and pathogen identification. Eighty-one lice, identified as F. subrostratus, were recovered from five infested cats, and 30 were selected for molecular identification and pathogen surveillance. Analysis of the COI and 18S rDNA partial sequences showed a similarity of 96.79%-100% with sequences of F. subrostratus from the US. Mycoplasma haemofelis and Hepatozoon canis DNA was detected in three and four samples, respectively. This work provides new collection locations for F. subrostratus, and the first sequences of the COI and 18S rDNA genes from Mexico. It also reports two pathogenic microorganisms found in the lice.

Effect of Casein Phosphopeptide-Amorphous Calcium Phosphate Added to Milk, Chewing Gum, and Candy on Dental Caries: A Systematic Review.

Casein is one of the most studied proteins with activity against dental caries. In particular, casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP) has shown promising remineralizing properties. In vivo evidence on the anticaries potential of CPP-ACP added to foodstuffs is elusive, nonetheless. Hence, this systematic review aimed at determining whether the use of CPP-ACP added to foodstuffs has a remineralizing or inhibitory action on dental demineralization either in vivo or in situ. The review protocol followed the PRISMA-P criteria and was registered in PROSPERO. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched using predefined criteria, based on the PICO question: Is there an effect on dental caries upon adding CPP-ACP to milk, chewing gums, or candies? No year or language limits were applied. Article selection and data extraction were carried out independently by 2 investigators. Two hundred ten titles were examined, 23 were selected for full-text review, and 16 studies were included (2 in vivo and 14 in situ). CPP-ACP was added to candy in 2 studies, to milk in 2 studies, and to chewing gum in 12 studies. The main outcomes included enamel remineralization and activity against dental biofilm. The overall quality of the evidence was classified as moderate. The available evidence suggests that CPP-ACP added to milk, chewing gum, or candy has a potential remineralizing activity on tooth enamel, with some additional antibacterial activity on the dental biofilm. Further clinical studies are needed to verify if this effect is clinically significant in reducing the caries lesion incidence or to revert the demineralizing process.

Effect of low dietary concentrations of Acacia mearnsii tannin extract on chewing, ruminal fermentation, digestibility, nitrogen partition, and performance of dairy cows.

The supplementation of dairy cows with tannins can reduce the ruminal degradation of dietary protein and urine N excretion, but high concentration in the diet can impair ruminal function, diet digestibility, feed intake, and milk yield. This study evaluated the effect of low concentrations (0, 0.14, 0.29, or 0.43% of diet in DM basis) of a tannin extract from the bark of Acacia mearnsii (TA) on milking performance, dry matter intake (DMI), digestibility, chewing behavior, ruminal fermentation, and N partition of dairy cows. Twenty Holstein cows (34.7 ± 4.8 kg/d, 590 ± 89 kg, and 78 ± 33 d in lactation) were individually fed a sequence of 4 treatments in 5, 4 × 4 Latin squares (with 21-d treatment periods, each with a 14-d adaptation period). The TA replaced citrus pulp in the total mixed ration and other feed ingredients were kept constant. Diets had 17.1% crude protein, mostly from soybean meal and alfalfa haylage. The TA had no detected effect on DMI (22.1 kg/d), milk yield (33.5 kg/d), and milk components. The proportions in milk fat of mixed origin fatty acids (16C and 17C) and the daily secretion of unsaturated fatty acids were linearly reduced and the proportion of de novo fatty acids was increased by TA. Cows fed TA had linear increase in the molar proportion of butyrate and linear reduction in propionate in ruminal fluid, whereas acetate did not differ. There was a tendency for the ratio of acetate to propionate to be linearly increased by TA. Cows fed TA had a linear reduction in the relative ruminal microbial yield, estimated by the concentrations of allantoin and creatinine in urine and body weight. The total-tract apparent digestibility of neutral detergent fiber, starch, and crude protein also did not differ. The TA induced a linear increase in meal size and duration of the first daily meal and reduced meal frequency. Rumination behavior did not differ with treatment. Cows fed 0.43% TA selected against feed particles >19 mm in the morning. There were tendencies for linear decreases in milk urea N (16.1-17.3 mg/dL), urine N (153-168 g/d and 25.5-28.7% of N intake), and plasma urea N at 6, 18, and 21 h postmorning feeding, and plasma urea N 12 h postfeeding was reduced by TA. The proportion of N intake in milk (27.1%) and feces (21.4%) did not differ with treatment. Reductions in urine N excretion and milk and plasma urea N suggest that TA reduced ruminal AA deamination, whereas lactation performance did not differ. Overall, TA up to 0.43% of DM did not affect DMI and lactation performance, while there was a tendency to reduce urine N excretion.

Food consumption and masticatory performance of normal weight, overweight and obese children aged 7 to 12 years old.

Childhood obesity is a significant public health problem. Studies show that obese children are more likely to become obese adults. In an attempt to ascertain the factors associated with childhood obesity, research has shown that this condition is associated with changes in food consumption and masticatory performance. The aim of this study was thus to evaluate food consumption and masticatory performance in normal weight, overweight and obese children aged 7 - 12 years. A cross-sectional study was carried out with 92 children aged 7 - 12 years, of both sexes, from a public school in a Brazilian municipality. The children were divided into the following groups: normal weight (n = 48), overweight (n = 26) and obese (n = 18). Anthropometric parameters, food consumption, food consistency preference, and masticatory performance were evaluated. Pearson's chi-square test was used to compare categorical variables. To compare numerical variables, the one-way ANOVA test was applied. For variables not conforming to a normal distribution, the Kruskal-Wallis test was used. The level of statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. Our results show that the children with obesity consumed fewer fresh foods (median = 3, IQI = 4.00-2.00, p = 0.026), consumed more ultra-processed foods (median = 4, IQI = 4.00-2.00, p = 0.011), performed fewer mastication sequences (median = 2, IQI = 3.00-2.00, p = 0.007), and ate faster (median = 58.50, IQI = 69.00-48.00, p = 0.026) compared to children of normal weight. We conclude that children with obesity exhibit differences in food consumption and masticatory performance compared to children of normal weight.

Cambios en parámetros masticatorios con prótesis parcial removible para dientes posteriores perdidos / Changes in masticatory parameters with removable partial dentures for missing posterior teeth

Introducción: el reemplazo de dientes perdidos aspira a mejorar la función masticatoria. Aunque hay diferentes opciones para ello, la conveniencia de la prótesis parcial removible (PPR) es su bajo costo. Objetivo: comparar el desempeño masticatorio (DM) después de 20 ciclos masticatorios y al umbral de la deglución (UD) en adultos de 50 a 70 años con dientes posteriores perdidos (DPP), con/sin PPR; y los ciclos hasta la deglución. Material y métodos: estudio transversal en 35 adultos con dientes anteriores y PPR bien ajustadas y utilizadas para comer. El lado de prueba fue el lado con más DPP. El DM se evaluó después de 20 ciclos y al UD utilizando un alimento prueba artificial (Optosil Comfort®) con/sin la PPR en orden aleatorizado. Las partículas se tamizaron para determinar el tamaño medio de partícula (TMP) como medida del DM. Los ciclos se contaron visualmente. Estadística descriptiva y comparaciones con SPSS-v23. Resultados: hubo diferencias significativas (p ≤ 0.05) al masticar con/sin PPR. El TMP fue más pequeño (mejor DM) con la PPR después de 20 ciclos y al UD (3.9 vs 4.4 mm y 3.2 vs 4.2 mm). Los ciclos para llegar al UD disminuyeron con la PPR (40 vs 47). Conclusión: a pesar de una mejora limitada de la función masticatoria, las PPR ayudan a preparar los alimentos en partículas más pequeñas antes de deglutirlas. La mejoría en DM con PPR es de 24% al UD, realizando menos ciclos antes de deglutir sus alimentos (AU)

Introduction: replacement of missing teeth should improve masticatory function. Although there are different options removable partial dentures (RPD) are used due to their lower cost. Objective: to compare masticatory performance (MP) after 20 chewing-cycles and swallowing-threshold (ST) in 50-70 year-old adults with missing posterior teeth (MPT) with and without their cast-metal RPD; chewing cycles until swallowing were also compared. Material and methods: 35 adults participated in this cross-sectional study. Subjects with anterior teeth and welladjusted RPDs, used for eating were included. The side with more MPT was selected as the test side. MP was evaluated after 20 cycles and ST using an artificial test-food (Optosil Comfort®) with/without the RPD (subject-own-control) (randomized order). Chewed particles were sieved to determine medium-particle-size (MPS) as a measure of MP. Chewing cycles were visually counted. Descriptive statistics and comparisons were run with SPSS v23. Results: there were significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) for all parameters when chewing with/without the RPD. MPS was smaller (better MP) with the RPD (3.9 vs 4.4 mm and 3.2 vs 4.2 mm) after 20 cycles and ST respectively. Cycles required to reach ST were less when chewing with the denture (40 vs 47). Conclusion: despite a limited improvement of masticatory function RPDs help patients prepare their food into smaller particles before swallowing. Improvement in MP with RPDs for patients with MPT is 24% at ST and they perform fewer chewing cycles before swallowing food (AU)