Prevalence and Determinants of Early Childhood Caries among Children Enrolled in Anganwadi Centres in Bhilai of Central India: A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: Early childhood caries (ECC), which results in rapid involvement and progression of several teeth, is a growing concern in preschool children. It directly affects a child’s overall health and quality of life. Aim: To assess the prevalence and determinants of ECC among children enrolled in Anganwadi centres in Bhilai city of Chhattisgarh. Methodology: This descriptive cross?sectional study was conducted among 360 children enrolled in Anganwadi of Bhilai. An oral examination and findings were recorded in ‘dmft’ using the WHO oral health assessment form for children 2013. The mothers’ knowledge, attitude, and practice were determined by a professionally administered 10?item pre?tested short questionnaire with Cronbach’s alpha of 0.86. The data were compiled and analysed using Microsoft Excel vs. 2013 and Statistical Package of Social Science (IBM SPSS version 23; Chicago Inc., USA). Results: The prevalence of ECC was 25.83%, out of which 13.33% in boys and 12.50% in girls. Children of middle school?educated mothers have 35.48% ECC, followed by high school and primary school, that is, 24.73 and 23.66, respectively. Mothers who assisted the children in tooth brushing have less prevalence of ECC (8.15%) as compared to non?assisted (17.8%) (P = 0.044). Conclusion: Although mothers’ knowledge was appreciable regarding reasons for tooth decay, still 1/4th of the children were found to be affected by ECC. This necessitates the importance of regular/periodic screening campaigns for the children, implementing institutional preventive programmes, and referral for children to secondary/tertiary healthcare centres.

La suplementación estratégica de bucerros manejados en pasturas con predominio de Hymenachne amplexicaulis estimula las conductas de ingestión y mejora la ganancia de peso / Strategic supplementation of buffalo calves managed in pastures with a predominance of Hymenachne amplexicaulis stimulates ingestion behavior and improves weight gain

Introducción: En Colombia, la producción bufalina viene creciendo de forma importante. Los búfalos se adaptan bien a zonas aluviales, que se caracterizan por la presencia de especies de gramíneas nativas, como Hymenachne amplexicaulis. Objetivo: Evaluar el efecto de diferentes tipos de suplementación sobre el desempeño productivo y comportamiento ingestivo de bucerros manejados en pasturas con predominio de Hymenachne amplexicaulis. Materiales y métodos: Treinta bucerros Murrah, con 67.5 (DE=2) kg de peso y 4 meses de edad, se asignaron, aleatoriamente, sí son tres tratamientos: SS: sin suplementación; SM: suplemento mineral y SM+C: suplemento mineral + balanceado (0.5% peso corporal). Los animales pastorearon en praderas con predominio de Hymenachne amplexicaulis, y en la noche recibieron el suplemento en corrales. Las variables estudiadas fueron la ganancia de peso y el tiempo destinado a realizar diferentes conductas de ingestión, además de las tasas de bocados y estaciones de alimentación. Resultados: El consumo diario de mezcla mineral fue de 33.8 g en los dos grupos suplementados, y el de balanceado de 149.3 g. La oferta de SM y de SM+C produjo un incremento extra en la ganancia de peso de 68 y de 227 g, respectivamente (p <0.001). Los animales suplementados presentaron mayor tiempo de pastoreo (p<0.001) y menor tiempo de rumia (p =0.001). La relación beneficio/costo, para los tratamientos SM y SM+C, fue de 4.2 y 4.3, respectivamente. Conclusión: Bajo las condiciones de estudio, las dos estrategias de suplementación evaluadas mejoraron el desempeño de los animales y presentaron viabilidad económica, en especial la oferta simultanea de mezcla mineral y de alimento balanceado.

Introduction: In Colombia, buffalo production has been growing significantly. Buffaloes adapt well to alluvial areas, which are characterized by the presence of native grass species, such as Hymenachne amplexicaulis. Objective: To evaluate the effect of different strategies of supplementation on the productive performance and ingestive behavior of calves managed in pastures with a predominance of Hymenachne amplexicaulis. Materials and methods: Thirty Murrah calves, weighing 67.5 (SD=2) kg and 4 months old, were randomly assigned to three treatments: SS: no supplementation; SM: mineral supplement and SM+C: mineral supplement + concentrate (0.5% body weight). The animals grazed in meadows with a predominance of Hymenachne amplexicaulis, and at night they received the supplement in pens. The variables studied were weight gain and time spent on different eating behaviors, in addition to biting rate and feeding stations. Results: The mineral mixture consumption was 33.8 g in the SM and SM+C groups, and the balanced consumption was 149.3 g. The supply of SM and SM+C produced an extra increase in weight gain of 68 and 227 g, respectively (p < 0.001). Supplemented animals grazed longer (p<0.001) and ruminated less time (p =0.001). The benefit/cost ratio for the SM and SM+C treatments was 4.2 and 4.3, respectively. Conclusion: Under the study conditions, the supplementation strategies evaluated improved the performance of the animals and presented economic viability, especially the simultaneous offer of mineral mix and balanced feed.

Intervenciones nutricionales en la mejora de la cultura alimenticia y sostenibilidad en hondureños de primer año universitario / Nutritional interventions in the improvement of food culture and sustainability in Honduran first-year university students

RESUMEN Objetivo Evaluar el efecto de intervenciones educativas en la mejora de hábitos alimenticos y adherencia a una dieta saludable y sostenible (dieta mediterránea) en universitarios hondureños en época de COVID-19. La emancipación del hogar ocasiona que los estudiantes universitarios se enfrenten a un nuevo entorno para la planificación de su alimentación durante la transición a su vida universitaria. Métodos Se realizó un estudio observacional de cohorte descriptivo transversal entre febrero y junio 2020. Los datos presentados se derivan de encuestas de conductas alimenticias y adherencia a la dieta mediterránea (DM) antes y después de intervenciones educativas nutricionales. Resultados El grupo con intervenciones mejoró sus conductas alimenticias pasando de poco saludables (media: 14,4) a moderadamente saludables (media: 17,3); de igual forma sucedió en la adherencia a la DM, pasando de baja adherencia (media: 7,6) a adherencia media (media: 8,3). En el grupo control no cambió su adherencia, manteniéndose en baja adherencia; tampoco cambiaron sus hábitos alimenticios, manteniéndose en hábitos poco saludables (p=0,068). Conclusiones Existe evidencia de que el patrón dietético mediterráneo puede ser una opción para reducir los problemas de salud, especialmente, en la época de pandemia, por lo cual esta investigación expuso que un patrón alimenticio mediterráneo puede coexistir en un ambiente latinoamericano una vez que se conocen sus beneficios.

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate the effect of educational interventions on improving eating habits and adherence to the Mediterranean diet in Honduran university students during the time of COVID-19. The emancipation of the home makes university students face a new environment for planning their diet during the transition to their university life. Methods An observational cross-sectional descriptive cohort study was conducted between February and June 2020. The data presented in this study are derived from surveys of eating behaviors and adherence to the Mediterranean diet (DM) before and after nutritional educational interventions in the COVID-19 pandemic. Results The group with interventions improved their eating behaviors going from unhealthy (median: 14,4) to moderately healthy (median: 17,3); in the same way, it happened in the adherence to DM, going from low adherence (median: 7,6) to medium adherence (median: 8,3). In the control group, their adherence did not change, maintaining low adherence, nor their eating habits, remaining in unhealthy habits. Conclusions There is evidence that the Mediterranean dietary pattern may be an option to reduce health problems, especially in times of pandemic, which is why this research showed that a foreign dietary pattern can coexist in a Latin-American environment once its benefits are known.

El amplio espectro de los trastornos evitativos/restrictivos de la ingestión de alimentos, ortorexia y otros desórdenes (alimentarios) / The broad spectrum of avoidant/restrictive food intake disorders, orthorexia and other (eating) disorders

Resumen Introducción: El espectro evitativo/restrictivo de la conducta alimentaria, incluye el trastorno evitativo/restrictivo de la ingestión de alimentos (TERIA), y otros desórdenes que implican a veces traslapes, entrecruzamientos y virajes con otros trastornos alimentarios. Objetivo: Se realiza un análisis descriptivo del TERIA, y de otros trastornos alimentarios, en relación a sus aspectos epidemiológicos, etiopatogénicos, clínicos y terapéuticos. Se incluyen viñetas clínicas ilustrativas. Método: Se efectuó una búsqueda bibliográfica sobre el TERIA y otros trastornos alimentarios mediante las bases de datos Medline/PubMed, SciELO y textos especializados. Resultados: El TERIA, que en el DSM-5 adquiere la categoría de un trastorno alimentario bien definido, puede ser precedido por el comer selectivo/exigente. Los pacientes son principalmente hombres jóvenes con evolución prolongada del desorden. Otros trastornos alimentarios incluidos en el abanico evitativo/restrictivo son: anorexia nerviosa, alergia e intolerancia alimentaria y ortorexia nerviosa, como un concepto sindromático relativamente reciente. Existe controversia si la ortorexia nerviosa es un trastorno alimentario único o una consecuencia del desenlace de éste o un proceso obsesivo-compulsivo. El antecedente de trastorno alimentario es un factor predictivo significativo para ortorexia nerviosa. Todos estos desórdenes pueden producir diversos niveles de desnutrición e interferencia en el desempeño psicosocial. El manejo terapéutico requiere un equipo multidisciplinario que incluya médicos, psicoterapeutas, nutricionistas, psicoeducación, psicoterapia cognitivo-conductual, asesoría nutricional, y en ocasiones terapia farmacológica anti-serotoninérgica. Conclusiones: Se necesita una mayor evidencia en la investigación de estos nuevos fenotipos de trastornos alimentarios para determinar su impacto en aspectos demográficos, nosológicos, clínicos y terapéuticos.

Background: The avoidant/restrictive spectrum of eating behaviour includes the avoidant/restrictive of food intake disorder (ARFID), sometimes involving overlapping, crossing and turning with other eating disorders. Objective: A descriptive analysis of ARFID and other eating disorders is performed in relation to its epidemiological, etiopathogenic, clinical and therapeutic aspects. Illustrative clinical vignettes are included. Method: A review of specialised textbooks and the available literature in Medline/PubMed and SciELO on ARFID and other eating disorders was carried out. Results: ARFID, which in the DSM-5 acquires the category of a well-defined eating disorder, may be preceded by selective/picky eating. Patients are mainly young men with a long evolution of the disorder. Other eating disorders included in the avoidant/ restrictive range are: anorexia nervosa, food allergy and intolerance and orthorexia nervosa; the lately as a relatively recent syndromatic concept. It has been controversial whether orthorexia nervosa is a unique eating disorder, a consequence of its outcome or an obsessive-compulsive process. The historical background of an eating disorder is a significant predictive factor for orthorexia nervosa. All these disorders can produce different levels of malnutrition and interference in psychosocial performance. The therapeutic management requires a multidisciplinary team that includes physicians, psychotherapists, nutritionists, psychoeducation, cognitive-behavioural psychotherapy, nutritional counselling, and sometimes anti-serotonergic drug therapy. Conclusions: More evidence is needed in the research of these new phenotypes of eating disorders to determine their impact on demographic, nosological, clinical and therapeutic aspects.

Markers of healthy eating habits, water intake, and constipation in children between 4 and 7 years of age / Marcadores de alimentação saudável, ingestão de água e constipação intestinal em crianças de 4 a 7 anos de idade

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate the association between diet and constipation in children between four and seven years of age. Methods A cross-sectional study with 152 children between 4 and 7 years of age residing in Viçosa, Brazil. Constipation was defined in accordance with the Rome IV diagnostic criteria. Dietary habits were evaluated based on the frequency of food intake using a food diary for three days. Dietary analysis considered foods deemed healthy and unhealthy which could be associated with constipation, as well as the children's consumption of fruits and vegetables. The amounts of fiber and water consumed were also rated as adequate or inadequate. As part of the analyses, Student's t-test and the chi-square test were performed with a significance level of p<0.05. Results The prevalence of constipation was 32.2%. Constipation was more common among children who did not consume fruits (p=0.020) or greens (p=0.002), as well as among children who consumed "instant" chocolate drinks (p=0.033). An association was found between the frequent consumption of fried food (p=0.020), a daily water intake lower than 600mL, and constipation (p=0.028). Conclusion Unhealthy eating habits among children, such as the lack of fruit and greens intake and the consumption of "instant" chocolate drinks and fried foods, were found to be positively correlated with constipation. The low fruit and vegetable consumption observed herein reflects the need for changes in children's eating habits and the implementation of measures to promote the intake of healthy foods.

RESUMO Objetivo O estudo visa avaliar a associação do consumo alimentar de crianças de quatro a sete anos de idade com constipação intestinal. Métodos Foi realizado estudo transversal com 152 crianças de 4 a 7 anos, residentes em Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brasil. A constipação intestinal foi identificada de acordo com os critérios de Roma IV. Avaliou-se o consumo alimentar por meio da frequência de consumo de alimentos e do registro alimentar de três dias. Na análise do consumo alimentar selecionaram-se os alimentos marcadores de alimentação saudável e não saudável que poderiam estar associados à constipação, além do consumo agrupado de frutas, verduras e legumes. Verificou-se ainda adequação do consumo de fibras e ingestão de água. Nas análises, foram realizados os testes t-Student e qui-quadrado, considerando-se como significância estatística p<0,05. Resultados A prevalência de constipação foi de 32,2%, sendo maior entre as crianças que não consumiam frutas (p=0,020) e verduras (p=0,002) e consumiam achocolatados (p=0,033). Houve associação entre a constipação (p=0,028) e o consumo frequente de frituras (p=0,020), ingestão diária de água inferior a 600mL. Conclusão Hábitos não saudáveis das crianças, como a baixa ingestão de frutas e verduras, e o consumo de achocolatado e frituras, contribuíram para a associação positiva com a constipação. O baixo consumo de frutas, verduras e legumes revela a necessidade de alteração dos hábitos alimentares das crianças, bem como da implantação de ações para incentivo ao consumo de alimentos saudáveis.

Ortorexia nervosa em estudantes de nutrição: associações com o estado nutricional, satisfação corporal e período cursado / Orthorexia nervosa in nutrition students: association with nutritional status, body satisfaction and coursed period

RESUMO Objetivo Identificar a prevalência de comportamentos com tendência a ortorexia nervosa (ON) e suas associações com o estado nutricional, satisfação corporal e período cursado em estudantes de nutrição. Métodos Participaram do estudo 141 estudantes (com idade média de 21,5 ± 3,5 anos). A tendência à ON foi avaliada por meio do questionário para identificação da ON (ORTO-15) e a satisfação corporal, pelo Body Shape Questionnaire. A classificação do estado nutricional foi feita pelo IMC (kg.m-2). Associações entre as variáveis foram avaliadas pelo teste do qui-quadrado (p < 0,05). Resultados Comportamentos alimentares com tendência a ON foram identificados em 87,2% dos estudantes. Os estudantes com ON apresentaram mais insatisfação corporal (χ2 = 7,48; p = 0,005) e excesso de peso (χ2 = 6,56; p = 0,010). Não foi observada associação entre a ON e o período cursado. Conclusão Os resultados demonstram que os estudantes de nutrição parecem ser uma população especialmente em risco para tendência à ON, independentemente do período cursado. A maior frequência de estudantes com ON e excesso de peso e insatisfação corporal pode sugerir que tais condições, que comumente cursam com preocupações com alimentação saudável, podem facilitar o início do desenvolvimento de comportamentos alimentares associados a ON.

ABSTRACT Objective To identify the prevalence of orthorexia nervosa (ON)'s risky behaviors and their association with nutritional status, body satisfaction and coursed period in nutrition students. Methods The study included 141 students (mean age 21.5 ± 3.5 years). The risk behavior to ON was assessed by using the questionnaire to identify ON (ORTHO-15) and body satisfaction with the Body Shape Questionnaire. The classification of nutritional status was evaluated by BMI (kg.m-2). Association between variables was evaluated by chi-square test (p < 0.05). Results Eating behaviors at risk for ON were identified in 87.2% of students. Students with ON had more body dissatisfaction (χ2 = 7.48; p = 0.005) and overweight (χ2 = 6.56; p = 0.010). No association was observed between the ON and coursed period. Conclusion The results show that Nutrition students seem to be a population at a particular risk for ON, regardless of the coursed period studied. The higher frequency of students with ON and overweight and body dissatisfaction may suggest that such conditions, which commonly occur with concerns about healthy eating, may facilitate the initiation of the development of eating behaviors associated with ON.

Reception of nutrition information by adult and older adult users of Primary Healthcare: Occurrence, associated factors, and sources of information / Informações sobre nutrição entre adultos e idosos usuários da Atenção Primária de Saúde: ocorrência, fatores associados e fontes de informação

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate reception of nutrition information (outcome), associated factors, and types of sources. Methods: This cross-sectional study, conducted in 2013, included 1,246 adult and older adult users of the Primary Healthcare network of Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The sample was characterized by reception of nutrition information, its sources, and demographic, socioeconomic, health, knowledge, and life habit variables. Prevalence ratios and their respective 95% confidence intervals investigated associations between reception of nutrition information and independent variables. Results: More than one-third of the sample (37.6%) received nutrition information (95%CI=34.9-40.3). Older adults, individuals with positive self-perceived diet, those who received health information, and those who were physically active were more likely to receive nutrition information, and normal weight individuals were less likely. The outcome differed by income strata, being highest in the highest quintile. There was a linear trend for education level and for following the Ten Steps to Healthy Eating: the outcome was more likely in individuals with at least higher education and those who followed at least four steps. The most cited sources of nutrition information were television shows (56.2%), other (46.2%), physician (41.2%), Internet (25.1%), and family members (20.9%), which did not differ by sex. Conclusion: Primary healthcare users received little nutrition information, and television could be a useful tool for the institutions responsible for the sector to disseminate the official nutritional recommendations.

RESUMO Objetivo: Investigar o recebimento de informações sobre nutrição, fatores associados e tipos de fontes. Métodos: Estudo transversal, realizado em 2013, com 1.246 adultos e idosos usuários da Atenção Primária de Saúde de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul. A amostra foi caracterizada quanto ao recebimento de informações sobre nutrição, suas fontes, e variáveis demográficas, socioeconômicas, de saúde, de conhecimento e de hábitos de vida. A associação das variáveis independentes com o recebimento de informações sobre nutrição foi verificada por meio das razões de prevalências e seus intervalos de confiança. Resultados: A prevalência do recebimento de informações sobre nutrição foi de 37,6% (IC95=34,9-40,3) e a probabilidade de sua ocorrência foi maior entre idosos, entre aqueles com autopercepção positiva da alimentação, que recebiam informações sobre saúde e fisicamente ativos e, menor entre eutróficos. Observaram-se diferenças entre estratos de renda, sendo a probabilidade do desfecho maior no quintil mais elevado. Verificou-se tendência linear para escolaridade e seguimento dos 10 Passos da Alimentação Saudável, sendo a probabilidade do desfecho maior entre usuários com no mínimo ensino superior e entre os que seguiam no mínimo 4 passos. Quanto às fontes de informações sobre nutrição, as mais citadas foram programa de televisão (56,2%), outra (46,2%), médico (41,2%), Internet (25,1%) e familiares (20,9%) e não foram observadas diferenças conforme o sexo. Conclusão: Os usuários da Atenção Primária de Saúde pouco recebiam informações sobre nutrição e, fazer uso da televisão como ferramenta para divulgar as recomendações alimentares oficiais, poderia ser útil às instituições responsáveis pelo setor.

Índice de masa corporal y percepción de mujeres mayas obesas de Quintana Roo, México

ANTECEDENTES:La preocupación por el cuerpo y las prácticas alimentarias de riesgo son dos temas que últimamente han cobrado interés entre las/os nutricionistas, pues además de observar estas características en mujeres de población urbana de diversas edades, estudios realizados en zonas rurales, con población mestiza e indígena de México, evidencian que el problema ya se presenta en mujeres pobres y marginadas.OBJETIVO:conocer la percepción corporal de mujeres que viven en zonas mayas de México.MÉTODOS:El estudio tuvo dos fases: una cuantitativa, a través de la aplicación de un cuestionario y otra cualitativa que consistió en la realización de grupos focales. Se pesó y midió a mujeres en la comunidad maya de Chun-Yah en el estado de Quintana Roo y se les solicitó que eligieran una figura anatómica con la que se identificaran según su percepción.RESULTADOS:Se obtuvo su índice de masa corporal, su percepción y su deseo por tener un determinado cuerpo. Se encuestó a 51 mujeres mayas en la primera fase quienes tuvieron un promedio de peso de 65 Kg, de estatura de 1.42 m y un IMC de 31.5 kg/m², y más de la mitad se percibieron delgadas. Durante la realización de los grupos focales se detectó una ambivalencia entre su percepción y deseo pues en la comunidad la gordura no es tan estigmatizada.CONCLUSIONES:se discute la necesidad de realizar más estudios empíricos en poblaciones rurales y discutir categorías de análisis diferentes a las biomédicas, como medicalización, lipofobia y discurso médico.

BACKGROUND:Concern for the body and dietary practices of risk are two topics that in recent years have gained interest among nutritionists, who have observed these characteristics in urban population, particularly in women of different ages. Studies in rural areas with mestizo and indigenous peoples of Mexico evidence that the problem occurs between the poor and marginalized female population.OBJECTIVE:to study the body perception of Mayan women living in areas of Mexico.METHODS: The investigation took place in two phases, a quantitative one, in which a questionnaire with open and closed questions was applied, and a qualitative one, which consisted of focus groups. Women from the Maya community of Chun-Yah in the state of Quintana Roo were weighed and measured, they were also asked to choose an anatomical figure they identified according to their perception.RESULTS: BMI, body perception and desire to have a certain body was obtained. 51 Maya women were surveyed in the first phase, they had an average weight of 65 Kg, height of 1.42 m and a BMI of 31.5 kg/m2. More than half of them perceived themselves thin. During the focus groups an ambivalence between perception and desire was detected, since fatness is not so stigmatized in the community.CONCLUSIONS: the need for more empirical studies on rural populations was observed as well as the need to discuss other categories of analysis different from the biomedical, such as medicalization, lipophobia, medical discourse, among others, in order to gain greater clarity on the subject of overweight and obesity in both urban and rural areas.

Reactive oxygen species signaling influences feeding behaviour.

Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) are not just by products of substrate oxidation but also chemicals that are involved in intracellular signaling when they are generated transiently and moderately. This review explores the intracellular signaling aspects of reactive oxygen species in influencing feeding behaviour. Substrates like glucose and lipids stimulate generation of reactive oxygen species mainly through mitochondria and to some extent through the NADPH oxidases. The level of ROS generated in hypothalamic neurons like NPY/AgRP and POMC neurons, under the influence of substrate level, directly influences the activity of these neurons and subsequently affect the downstream neurons located in other parts of the hypothalamus like the ventromedial nucleus (VMN), the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and the lateral hypothalamus. Activation of POMC neuronal population is driven by increase ROS level whereas activation of NPY/AgRP neurons occurs when ROS level is reduced. The activation of these neurons will determine the feeding behaviour which will either be satiety if POMC neurons are activated or increase food intake if NPY/AgRP neurons are activated.

Percepción de condicionantes del comportamiento alimentario en estudiantes universitarios con malnutrición por exceso / Perception of determining factors in the dietary behavior of higher education students with overnutrition

Introducción: la Organización Mundial de la Salud proyectó para el año 2015 que 3.000 millones de adultos en el mundo presentarán malnutrición por exceso. Esta situación debe ser considerada, especialmente en el fortalecimiento de los programas de salud existentes destinados a usuarios con estas patologías. Objetivo: interpretar la percepción de estudiantes universitarios con malnutrición por exceso, de los factores que condicionan su alimentación. Materiales y métodos: utilizando un diseño cualitativo del tipo fenomenológico, se realizan entrevistas semiestructuradas a 16 alumnos pertenecientes a la Universidad Católica de la Santísima Concepción durante el año 2010, que cumplieron con los requisitos de ingreso al estudio y firmaron el consentimiento informado. Resultados: entre las condicionantes que se perciben como influyentes en la alimentación de los estudiantes entrevistados se encuentran la limitada disponibilidad de tiempo durante la vida universitaria; el grupo familiar; los amigos; el alto costo y una reducida oferta de alimentos saludables dentro del establecimiento educacional; situaciones de estrés académico y el lugar de residencia. Conclusiones: a excepción de la familia, las condicionantes de la alimentación identificadas por los entrevistados son interpretadas como desfavorables para mantener una alimentación saludable y un control adecuado del peso corporal.

Introduction: According to the World Health Organization the number of adults presenting overnutrition will reach 3.000 million by the year 2015. This situation must be considered, especially strengthening the existing health programs that aim at people with these pathologies. Objective: The main goal is to interpret the perception of the factors that condition the diet of higher education students with overnutrition. Materials and methods: Through a phenomenological-type study, using a qualitative design, semi-structured interviews were conducted to 16 students that fulfilled the requirements to participate in the study and granted their consent. All of them were at Universidad Católica de la Santísima Concepción during the year 2010. Results: Among the determining factors that have a strong influence on the diet of the interviewed students, it was found the limited period of time that students have between classes; their family; their friends; the elevated price, and the reduced supply of healthy food on campus; academic stress, and their place of residence. Conclusions: With the sole exception of the family, the conditioning factors identified by the interviewed people were considered as unfavorable to maintain a balanced diet and an appropriate control over body weight.

Local e tipo das refeições realizadas por adultos em cidade de médio porte / Place and type of meals consumed by adults in medium sized cities / Place and type of meals consumed by adults in medium sized cities / Comidas de adultos en ciudad de porte medio

OBJETIVO : Descrever as refeições realizadas por adultos quanto ao local e tipo de preparação consumido em cidade de médio porte, do sul do Brasil. MÉTODOS : Estudo transversal, de base populacional, na cidade de Pelotas, RS, em 2012. A amostragem foi realizada em dois estágios, tendo os setores censitários do Censo Demográfico de 2010 como unidade amostral primária. Foram coletadas informações sobre o local das refeições (em casa ou fora de casa) e sobre o tipo de preparação consumida em casa (comida caseira, lanches, comida de restaurante) nos dois dias prévios à entrevista, utilizando-se questionário padronizado. RESULTADOS : Participaram do estudo 2.927 adultos: 59,0% mulheres, 60,0% com idade abaixo de 50 anos e 58,0% estava trabalhando. Foram obtidas informações sobre 11.581 refeições nos dois dias anteriores à entrevista, sendo 25,0% delas realizadas fora de casa, no almoço, e 10,0% no jantar. Quanto às refeições realizadas em casa, a maioria dos participantes referiu ter consumido comida preparada em casa, tanto no almoço quanto no jantar. A maioria das refeições fora de casa (64,0% no almoço e 61,0% no jantar) foram realizadas no local de trabalho, majoritariamente preparadas em casa. As refeições fora de casa foram realizadas principalmente por pessoas do sexo masculino, jovens, com alta escolaridade. Quanto à ocupação, os grupos que tiveram refeições mais frequentemente em restaurantes foram trabalhadores do comércio, empresários, professores e profissionais de nível superior. CONCLUSÕES : Apesar das mudanças que vêm sendo registradas nos padrões de alimentação do brasileiro, adultos residentes em cidades de médio porte ainda se alimentam majoritariamente em casa e de comida caseira. .

OBJECTIVE : To describe the meals consumed by adults living in a midsize city in the South of Brazil, according to the place and preparation. METHODS : A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Pelotas, Southern Brazil, in 2012. The two-stage sampling design used the 2010 census tracts as primary sampling units. Data were collected on the place of meals (at home or out) and on the kind of preparations consumed at home (homemade, snacks, take away food) covering the two days prior to the interview, using a standardized questionnaire. RESULTS : The study included 2,927 adults, of which 59.0% were female, 60.0% were below 50 years of age and 58.0% were in work. Data were collected on 11,581 meals consumed on the two days preceding the interview, 25.0% were consumed outside of the home at lunchtime, and 10.0% at dinnertime. Considering home meals, most participants reported eating food prepared at home at both lunch and dinner. The majority of out-of-home meals (64.0% for lunch and 61.0% for dinner) were consumed in the work place, mostly based on food prepared at home. Individuals eating out of home were mostly male, young and highly educated. The occupational categories that ate at restaurants more often were trade workers, businessmen, teachers and graduate professionals. CONCLUSIONS : Despite the changes in eating patterns described in Brazil in recent years, residents of medium-sized towns still mostly eat at home, consuming homemade food. .

OBJECTIVE : To describe the meals consumed by adults living in a midsize city in the South of Brazil, according to the place and preparation. METHODS : A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Pelotas, Southern Brazil, in 2012. The two-stage sampling design used the 2010 census tracts as primary sampling units. Data were collected on the place of meals (at home or out) and on the kind of preparations consumed at home (homemade, snacks, take away food) covering the two days prior to the interview, using a standardized questionnaire. RESULTS : The study included 2,927 adults, of which 59.0% were female, 60.0% were below 50 years of age and 58.0% were in work. Data were collected on 11,581 meals consumed on the two days preceding the interview, 25.0% were consumed outside of the home at lunchtime, and 10.0% at dinnertime. Considering home meals, most participants reported eating food prepared at home at both lunch and dinner. The majority of out-of-home meals (64.0% for lunch and 61.0% for dinner) were consumed in the work place, mostly based on food prepared at home. Individuals eating out of home were mostly male, young and highly educated. The occupational categories that ate at restaurants more often were trade workers, businessmen, teachers and graduate professionals. CONCLUSIONS : Despite the changes in eating patterns described in Brazil in recent years, residents of medium-sized towns still mostly eat at home, consuming homemade food. .

OBJETIVO : Describir las comidas realizadas por adultos con respecto al local y tipo de preparación consumido en ciudad de porte medio, del sur de Brasil. MÉTODOS : Estudio transversal, de base poblacional, en la ciudad de Pelotas, RS – Brasil, en 2002. El muestreo fue realizado en dos fases, considerando los sectores censados por el Censo Demográfico de 2010 como unidad de muestreo primaria. Se colectaron informaciones sobre el lugar de las comidas (en casa o fuera de casa) y sobre el tipo de preparación consumida en casa (comida casera, lanches, comida de restaurante) en los dos días previos a la entrevista, utilizándose cuestionario estandarizado. RESULTADOS : Participaron del estudio 2.927 adultos: 59,0% mujeres, 60,0% con edad por debajo de 50 años y 58,0% estaba trabajando Fueron obtenidas informaciones sobre 11.581 comidas en los dos días anteriores a la entrevista, siendo 25,0% de ellas realizadas fuera de casa, en el almuerzo, y 10,0% en la cena. Con respecto a las comidas realizadas en casa, la mayoría de los participantes mencionó haber consumido comida preparada en casa, tanto en el almuerzo como en la cena. La mayoría de las comidas fuera de casa (64,0% en el almuerzo y 61,0% en la cena) fueron realizadas en el lugar de trabajo, mayoritariamente preparadas en casa. Las comidas fuera de casa fueron realizadas principalmente por personas del sexo masculino, jóvenes, con alta escolaridad. Con respecto a la ocupación, los grupos que hicieron comidas más frecuentemente en restaurantes fueron trabajadores del comercio, empresarios, profesores y profesionales de nivel superior. CONCLUSIONES : A pesar de los cambios que vienen registrándose en los patrones de alimentación del brasileño, adultos residentes en ciudades de medio porte aún se alimentan mayoritariamente en casa y de comida casera. .

Carencia de agua y sus implicaciones en las prácticas alimentarias, en Turbo, Antioquia / The lack of water and its implications regarding feeding practice in Turbo, Antioquia

Objetivo Describir las percepciones y prácticas relacionadas con el agua y sus usos por parte de habitantes de barrios sin cobertura de servicios públicos del municipio de Turbo, Antioquia, Colombia. Métodos Investigación cualitativa abordada desde la etnografía enfocada. La información fue recolectada mediante entrevistas a habitantes de barrios informales y observación de actividades relacionadas con el agua. La información se codificó, se conformaron categorías empíricas y posteriormente analíticas. Resultados Las familias han establecido una dinámica cotidiana para enfrentar el vivir sin agua, invirtiendo tiempo, dinero y esfuerzo y según sus percepciones y posibilidades, definen prácticas y usos para el agua con que cuentan. Las fuentes de agua disponibles son: acueducto, comprada o recolectada en otros barrios, considerada inadecuada para la alimentación; lluvia, valorada por su sabor y aparente calidad; agua comercial envasada, considerada apta para beber y cocinar pero más costosa. En momentos críticos de escasez se recurre a fuentes menos adecuadas. En medio de esta carencia, las prácticas alimentarias se modifican reemplazando preparaciones que requieren más agua y haciendo ajustes que limitan lo que consideran una alimentación adecuada. Conclusiones La carencia de agua afecta la seguridad alimentaria, la calidad de vida y el bienestar de las familias. Las prácticas relacionadas con el agua responden a las condiciones de vida; esto implica reconocer la articulación entre lo biológico y lo social. Se reafirma la importancia de concretar el derecho al agua y considerar en las acciones de política la mirada de quienes padecen esta carencia.(AU)

Objective Describing water-related perceptions and practice and how slum dwellers lacking public service coverage in the town of Turbo in the Antioquia Department, Colombia, approach this. Methods This study involved qualitative research from an ethnographic approach. Data was collected by means of interviews with slum dwellers and observing water-related activities. The information was encoded; empirical categories were initially constructed, followed by analytical ones. Results The families had established daily dynamics for facing life without water, investing time, money and effort and, according to their perceptions and possibilities, defining practice and uses for the water which they had access to. The available water sources consisted of a piped water supply which had to be paid for or was collected from other neighborhoods (considered unsuitable for drinking), rain water (appreciated for its taste and alleged quality) and bought bottled water (considered suitable for drinking and cooking, but more expensive than the piped water). Less suitable water sources were resorted to at critical moments during shortage. Regarding such deficiency, feeding practice became modified by replacing preparations requiring more water and making adjustments, thereby limiting what could be considered as suitable feeding. Conclusions The lack of water affected the target families' food security, quality of life and welfare. Water-related practice corresponded to living conditions, meaning that biological and social aspects must be reconciled and recognized. The importance of the right to water and taking those suffering such deficiency in to consideration when making public health policy was thus highlighted.(AU)

Food and feeding behaviour of Asiatic elephant (Elephas maximus Linn.) in Kuldiha Wild Life Sanctuary, Odisha, India.

The feeding behaviour of Asiatic elephant (Elephas maximus) with food reference was studied in Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary in Odisha during 2007 to 2009. Though the study area houses a good number of plant species only 71 species were identified as elephant fodder plants. The food trail of elephant was observed as twig breaking, bark peeling, branch breaking, stem twisting uprooting and flower plucking in different regions of study area during different seasons. Alteration of predominantly browsing strategy with that of grazing around the year was related to seasonal variation of food plants. Consumption of tree species (56%) was highest as compared to shrubs (20%), herbs (14%) and climbers (10%). A high degree of variation in dicot- monocot ratio (61:10)) was marked during identification of elephant fodder plant by direct observation. Microscopic analysis of dung showing a high degree of variation in average dicot- monocot ratio suggested that the food plant selection of elephant was highly opportunistic and seasonal. The elephants extensively fed on the plant species like Careya arborea, Kydia calycina, Helicteres isora, Mallotus philippinensis, Aegle marmelos, Zizyphus mauritiana, Bauhinia racemosa, Bauhinia vahlii, Mimosa pudica, Asparagus racemosus, Smilax zeylanica and Diosporea species. They were fond of Madhuca indica (Mahula) flowers in winter and fruits of Mangifera indica (Mango) in summer. They were never found feeding on Tectona grandis and Eucalyptus maculate inside the study area.

Ventilation rates indicate stress-coping styles in Nile tilapia.

Behavioural responses to stress can form distinct profiles in a wide range of animals: proactive and reactive profiles or coping styles. Stress responsiveness can also differentiate between the behavioural profiles. The tendency to regain feed intake following transfer to a novel social-isolation tank (the speed of acclimation) can discriminate between proactive or reactive profiles. Consequently, differential stress responsiveness can be linked to this feeding behaviour trait. This study shows that ventilation rates of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus (L.), correlate with the rate of feeding resumption, following transfer to a novel social-isolation aquarium. Therefore, ventilation rate (VR) indicates coping styles; consequently, VR is a proxy for the way fish will deal with environmental challenges.

Condition factor and diet of Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus and Chrysichthys auratus (Siluriformes: Bagridae) from Aiba Reservoir, Iwo, Nigeria

Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus and C. auratus are important, highly valued and threatened freshwater species. To contribute with their ecological knowledge, the condition factor and diet of these two congeneric species were studied between April 2005 and April 2006. Food items of fish were evaluated by occurrence and numerical abundance methods, and the possible changes among sexes, seasons and sizes were considered. Results showed that generally C. nigrodigitatus were better conditioned than C. auratus. The males of C. nigrodigitatus and females of C. auratus were in better condition than their respective opposite sex throughout the year, and during the wet season compared to the dry. The food items of C. nigrodigitatus and C. auratus were similar and comprised twelve species belonging to five groups: Insecta (three species), Crustacea (five species), Arachnida (one species), Rotifera (one species) and Mollusca (two species). Other food items included fish scales, unidentified green eggs, plant parts, detritus and sand. Insecta and Crustacea dominated the food items in both species. For C. nigrodigitatus, insect consumption increased with fish size, while Crustacea items decreased (from 89.59% for 8.1cm - 12.0cm size class to 1.58% for 20.1cm - 26.0cm size class). However, while C. auratus smaller sized fish preferred Crustacea (98.72% for 8.1cm -12.0cm size class), larger sized fish had both groups in relatively similar amounts. Schoener Overlap Index for both species and between seasons is 1.00. Diet breadth ranged from 0.00-1.47 for C. nigrodigitatus and 0.00-1.32 for C. auratus. Food Richness ranged from 0.00-1.44 for both species. Gut Repletion Index for C. nigrodigitatus and C. auratus are 76.39% and 76.27% respectively. Although, there is considerable similarity and overlap in the utilization of food resource for both coexisting species, condition factor and feeding behavior suggest strategies to reduce intra- and inter-specific competition. Rev. Biol. Trop. 59 (3): 1233-1244. Epub 2011 September 01.

Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus y C. auratus son dos especies importantes de peces de agua dulce, de gran valor y amenazadas. Para contribuir con sus conocimientos ecológicos, se estudió el factor de condición y la dieta de estas dos especies congenéricas entre abril de 2005 y abril de 2006. Las categorías alimentarias fueron evaluadas por presencia y métodos de abundancia numérica, y los posibles cambios entre sexos, estaciones y tamaños fueron considerados. Los resultados mostraron que, en general los individuos de C. nigrodigitatus fueron estan en mejores condiciones que los individuos de C. auratus. Los machos de C. nigrodigitatus y las hembras de C. auratus se encontraban en mejores condiciones que su respectivo sexo opuesto durante todo el año, y durante la estación lluviosa en comparación con la seca. Las categorías alimentarias de C. nigrodigitatus y C. auratus fueron similares y se compone por 12 especies pertenecientes a cinco grupos: Insecta (tres especies), Crustacea (cinco especies), Arachnida (una especie), Rotifera (una especie) y Mollusca (dos especies). Otras categorías alimentarias incluyen escamas de peces, huevos verdes sin identificar, partes de plantas, detritos y arena. Insecta y Crustacea dominaron las categorías alimentarias en ambas especies. Para C. nigrodigitatus, el consumo de insectos incrementa con el tamaño del pez, mientras los crustáceos disminuyeron (de 89.59% para 8.1cm - clase de tamaño 12.0cm a 1.58% para 20.1cm - clase de tamaño 26.0cm). Sin embargo, mientras que los peces más pequeños de C. auratus tiene preferencia por Crustacea (98.72% para 8.1cm -12.0cm clase de tamaño), los peces más grandes de ambos grupos tienen cantidades relativamente similares. El índice Schoener de Superposición para ambas especies y entre las estaciones fue 1.00. La amplitud de la dieta varió desde 0.00-1.47 para C. nigrodigitatus, y 0.00-1.32 para C. auratus. La riqueza de la alimentación varió desde 0.00-1.44 para ambas especies. El índice Gut Repletion para C. nigrodigitatus y C. auratus fue 76.39% y 76.27%, respectivamente. Aunque, existe similitud y un traslapo considerable en la utilización de los recursos alimenticios en ambas especies coexistentes, el factor de condición y el comportamiento de alimentación sugieren estrategias para reducir la competencia intra- e interespecifica.

Conducta alimentaria de poblaciones de Triatoma dimidiata (Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Triatominae) en una zona endémica y sus implicaciones epidemiológicas / Triatoma dimidiata populations' (Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Triatominae) feeding behaviour in an endemic zone and related epidemiological implications

Objetivo Determinar la conducta alimentaria de Triatoma dimidiata en hábitats domiciliarios y extradomiciliarios en una zona endémica de Santander, Colombia. Materiales y métodos Mediante la técnica de ELISA, se procesaron 367 contenidos intestinales de insectos capturados en zonas rurales de los municipios de Capitanejo y Macaravita. Estos fueron procesados por medio de la técnica de ELISA, con 12 antisueros policlonales anti-especie animal específicos. Los hospederos de T. dimidiata fueron determinados por la reactividad ante cada antisuero; se establecieron las proporciones de hospederos. Resultados El 42,2 por ciento de los contenidos intestinales procesados fueron reactivos en el ELISA para proteínas sanguíneas de uno o más de 10 hospederos. En la totalidad de los insectos reactivos de intradomicilio y peridomicilio se identificaron proteínas de animales domésticos, con mayor frecuencia la sangre de gallina, seguida de caprino, canino y humano; en los insectos silvestres también se detectó sangre de animales domésticos como cabra, gallina y equino. En los insectos intradomésticos, sangre de animales como fara y armadillo. El hospedero humano fue identificado en domicilio y peridomicilio en el 11 por ciento de los insectos. Conclusiones Se determinó el carácter ecléctico del vector en hábitats domiciliarios y extradomiciliarios, por la identificación de sangre humana, de animales silvestres y domésticos. Se evidenció movilidad de las poblaciones silvestres hacia el domicilio y peridomicilio por el hallazgo de sangre de animales domésticos en éstos y de animales silvestres en los insectos domésticos y peridomésticos. Estos resultados contribuyen a la comprensión de los ciclos de transmisión de T. cruzi.

Objective Determining Triatoma dimidiata's feeding behaviour in domiciliary and extra-domiciliary habitats in an endemic area of the Santander department in Colombia. Materials and methods The ELISA technique was used for processing the intestinal contents of 367 insects captured in rural areas around the municipalities of Capitanejo and Macaravita. 12 anti-animal species specific polyclonal anti-sera were used in ELISA. T. dimidiata hosts were determined by reactivity to each anti-serum; host percentages were established. Results 42.2 percent of the intestinal content processed by ELISA was reactive for blood proteins from one or more than 10 hosts. Domestic animal proteins were identified in all reactive intra-domiciliary and peridomestic insects, most often chicken blood, followed by that from goats, canines and humans. Blood from domestic animals like goats, chicken and horses was also detected in wild insects. Blood from animals such as armadillo and fara were identified in intra-domiciliary insects. Human host protein was found in 11 percent of intra-domiciliary and peri-domiciliary insects. Conclusions The vector's eclectic nature in domiciliary and extra-domiciliary habitats was determined by identifying human blood in wild and domestic animals. The wild populations' mobility towards domiciliary and peri-domiciliary areas was demonstrated by finding domestic animals' blood in them and wild animals' blood in domestic and peri-domestic insects. These results contribute towards understanding Trypanosoma cruzi transmission-cycles.

Efectos de las instrucciones audiovisuales no explícitas sobre el comportamiento alimentario / Effects of non-explicit audiovisual instructions on feeding behavior

Este estudio evaluó los efectos de las instrucciones no explícitas sobre la conducta alimentaria. Participaron cinco jóvenes entre los 19 y 24 años, a quienes se les observó durante dos fases experimentales a dos tipos de alimento nutricional (fruta y agua) y no nutricional (papas fritas y refresco). Los participantes fueron f lmados en dos programas de video. En la primera fase se grabaron videos musicales y en la segunda, un documental sobre hábitos alimentarios saludables. Los resultados mostraron que las instrucciones no explícitas modificaron la conducta alimentaria. Sin embargo, es necesario evaluar si estas modificaciones persisten a largo plazo.

This study evaluated the effects of non-explicit audiovisual instructions on feeding behaviour. Five adults between 19 and 24 years-old participated as subjects, which were exposed at nutritional (fruit and water) or no nutritional (chips and soda) foods during two experimental phases. Subjects were videotaped and exposed to two video programs in different phases. In the first phase, subjects were exposed to a musical video, in the second phase subjects were exposed to a program about health eating habits. The results showed that non-explicit audiovisual instructions modified feeding behaviour. However, will be necessary evaluate if these modification could persist for longer time.

Analysis of the feeding habits of the swallow-tailed hummingbird, Eupetomena macroura (Gmelin, 1788), in an urban park in southeastern Brazil / Análise do comportamento alimentar do beija-flor tesourão, Eupetomena macroura (Gmelin, 1788), em um parque urbano localizado na região sudeste do Brasil

The aim of this work was to observe and describe the feeding habits and available food resources of the swallow-tailed hummingbird, Eupetomena macroura. The study was carried out in a municipal park located in the city of Taubaté, in the state of São Paulo. The observations took place between December 2003 and October 2004, recording the following variables: 1) the plant species visited for feeding and territorial defense; 2) the kinds of food resources; and 3) the kinds of flight to procure and obtain food. E. macroura visited 12 plant species. For territorial defense, Mangifera indica was the most visited, whereas Malvaviscus arboreus was most visited for feeding. The foliage was the plant part that received the most frequent visits. In order to obtain nectar, the only species visited was M. arboreus; to obtain arthropods, the species most visited were Mangifera indica and Hymenaea stilbocarpa. In the dry season, the hummingbirds visited flowers, whereas in the rainy season they visited leaves to acquire food. The arthropod groups most frequently found on leafy branches were Homoptera and Psocoptera. Finally, the results of the type of flight analysis showed that flight used to capture food was more often observed than were flights to search for food. In conclusion, these observations suggest that E. macroura shows plasticity in feeding behavior, which can help it to persist in urban areas.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi observar e descrever o hábito alimentar do Beija-flor Tesourão, Eupetomena macroura. O estudo foi realizado em um parque municipal, situado na cidade de Taubaté, Estado de São Paulo. As observações ocorreram entre dezembro de 2003 e outubro de 2004, período em que foram observadas as seguintes variáveis: 1) as espécies de plantas visitadas para alimentação e defesa territorial; 2) o tipo de recurso alimentar; e 3) a freqüência de vôo para busca e obtenção de alimento. Foram registradas 12 espécies de plantas visitadas pelo E. macroura, visto que Mangifera indica e Malvaviscus arboreus foram as mais utilizadas para defesa territorial e para alimentação, respectivamente. O maior índice de flores visitadas foi observada para Malvaviscus arboreus. Mangifera indica e Hymenaea stilbocarpa foram as espécies que apresentaram maior freqüência de visita em folhas e ramos. Na estação seca, o beija-flor tesourão visitou flores para obtenção de alimento, já na estação úmida a maior parte do alimento foi adquirida entre folhas e ramos. Quando analisados as folhas e ramos visitados pelos indivíduos quanto à presença de artrópodes, os resultados obtidos indicaram que os grupos mais abundantes foram Homoptera e Psocoptera. Finalmente, pela análise do tipo de vôo, observou-se que o vôo que representa captura de alimento foi mais vezes observado do que aquele que é utilizado para procura de alimento. Os resultados sugerem uma flexibilidade trófica do E. macroura, fato que pode auxiliar na permanência da espécie em áreas urbanas.

The parakeet Brotogeris tirica feeds on and disperses the fruits of the palm Syagrus romanzoffiana in Southeastern Brazil / O periquito Brotogeris tirica come e dispersa os frutos da palmeira Syagrus romanzoffiana no sudeste do Brasil

Small psittacids remain unrecorded as dispersal agents of palm fruits in Brazil. I record here the plain parakeet (Brotogeris tirica), an Atlantic forest endemic, feeding on and dispersing the fruits of the palm Syagrus romanzoffiana at Ubatuba, northern coast of São Paulo, Southeastern Brazil. The birds removed the fruit and carried it away from the mother-tree in about 40 percent of the feeding records. While perched on trees and shrubs of the understorey, the parakeets removed and ingested most of the mesocarp, dropping the partly consumed fruit. As the parakeets damaged no the embryo and may feed at a distance from the mother-tree, they act as primary dispersal agents. This is the first substantiated record of a small Neotropical psittacid as a stomatochorous dispersal agent of palm fruits the size of A. romanzoffiana drupes.

Psitacídeos de pequeno porte não constam como dispersores de frutos de palmeiras no Brasil. Registro aqui o periquito-rico (Brotogeris tirica), endêmico da mata Atlântica, alimentando-se em e dispersando frutos da palmeira Syagrus romanzoffiana em Ubatuba, litoral norte do Estado de São Paulo. As aves removiam o fruto e, em cerca de 40 por cento dos registros alimentares, carregavam-no à distância da árvore-mãe. Empoleirados em ramos de arvoretas e arbustos no sub-bosque, os periquitos retiravam e ingeriam a maior parte do mesocarpo, deixando cair o resto do fruto. Uma vez que estas aves se alimentam sem danificar o embrião e podem fazê-lo a certa distância da árvore-mãe, agem como dispersores primários. Este é o primeiro registro documentado de um psitacídeo Neotropical de pequeno porte como dispersor estomatocórico de frutos de palmeira com as dimensões das drupas de S. romanzoffiana.