Investigation through Animal-Computer Interaction: A Proof-of-Concept Study for the Behavioural Experimentation of Colour Vision in Zoo-Housed Primates.

Zoos are an important repository of animals, which have a wide range of visual systems, providing excellent opportunities to investigate many comparative questions in sensory ecology. However, behavioural testing must be carried out in an animal welfare-friendly manner, which is practical for zoo staff. Here, we present a proof-of-concept study to facilitate behavioural research on the sensory ecology of captive primates. A system consisting of a tablet computer and an automated feeder connected wirelessly was developed and presented to captive primate species to evaluate interactions with and without previous training. A colour stimulus, analogous to the Ishihara test, was used to check the level of interaction with the device, supporting future studies on sensory ecology with zoo animals. Animals were able to use the system successfully and displayed signs of learning to discriminate between the visual stimuli presented. We identified no risk for small primates in their interactions with the experimental setup without the presence of keepers. The use of electronic devices should be approached with caution to prevent accidents, as a standard practice for environmental enrichment for larger animals (e.g., spider monkeys). In the long term, the system developed here will allow us to address complex comparative questions about the functions of different visual systems in captive animals (i.e., dichromatic, trichromatic, etc.).

Bioaccessibility of condensed tannins and their effect on the physico-chemical characteristics of lamb meat.

The bioaccessibility of tannins as antioxidants in meat is essential to maximise their effectiveness in protecting the product. This property determines the amount of tannins available to interact with meat components, inhibiting lipid and protein oxidation and, consequently, prolonging shelf life and preserving the sensory quality of the product. The objective of this study was to evaluate the bioaccessibility of condensed tannins (CT) from Acacia mearnsii extract (AME) and their effect on the physico-chemical characteristics of fattened lamb meat. Thirty-six Dorset × Hampshire lambs (3 months old and 20.8 ± 3.3 kg live weight) were used. The lambs were distributed equally (n = 9) into four treatments: T1, T2, T3 and T4, which included a basal diet plus 0%, 0.25%, 0.5% and 0.75% of CT from AME, respectively. At the end of the fattening period, bioaccessibility was evaluated, the animals were slaughtered and a sample of the longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle was collected to assess colour, lipid oxidation, cooking weight loss and shear force on days 1, 4, 7 and 14 of shelf-life, in samples preserved at -20 °C. In addition, the long chain fatty acid profile was analysed. A completely randomised design was used, and the means were compared with Tukey's test (P < 0.05). The mean lightness (L*), yellowness (b*) and hue (H*) values were higher for T3 and T4. The addition of CT did not affect (P > 0.05) redness (a*), cooking weight loss (CWL) or shear force (SF). T4 decreased (P < 0.05) stearic acid and increased cis-9 trans-12 conjugated linoleic acid (CLA). Bioaccessibility was higher in the supplemented groups (T1 < T2, T3 and T4). In conclusion, supplementing CT from AME in the diet of lambs did not reduce lipid oxidation, but T3 or T4 improved some aspects of meat colour and CLA deposition.

Expression patterns of melanin-related genes are linked to crypsis and conspicuousness in a pumpkin toadlet.

Colour signals play pivotal roles in different communication systems, and the evolution of these characters has been associated with behavioural ecology, integumentary production processes and perceptual mechanisms of the species involved. Here, we present the first insight into the molecular and histological basis of skin colour polymorphism within a miniaturized species of pumpkin toadlet, potentially representing the lowest size threshold for colour polytypism in tetrapods. Brachycephalus actaeus exhibits a coloration ranging from cryptic green to conspicuous orange skin, and our findings suggest that colour morphs differ in their capability to be detected by potential predators. We also found that the distribution and abundance of chromatophores are variable in the different colour morphs. The expression pattern of coloration related genes was predominantly associated with melanin synthesis (including dct, edn1, mlana, oca2, pmel, slc24a5, tyrp1 and wnt9a). Up-regulation of melanin genes in grey, green and brown skin was associated with higher melanophore abundance than in orange skin, where xanthophores predominate. Our findings provide a significant foundation for comparing and understanding the diverse pathways that contribute to the evolution of pigment production in the skin of amphibians.

Stability of Bioactive Compounds and Antioxidant Activity in Rosehip Juice (Rosa spp.).

Rosehip fruits, characterized by their high concentrations of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity (AA), have been traditionally used to make jams, infusions, and juices. Thus, the objective of this research was to evaluate the stability of rosehip juice by determining the concentrations of bioactive compounds and total phenols and the AA using chromatographic and spectroscopic methods. The stability of the juice was evaluated with three treatments and different storage conditions, namely, unpasteurized-refrigerated, pasteurized-room temperature, and pasteurized-refrigerated, and measurements were taken for eight months. Individual and total phenolic compounds, evaluated by chromatographic methods, reported differences until the end of this study. The total phenolic compounds by Folin-Ciocalteu method presented an average decrease of 57% in the three treatments in relation to the initial conditions. On the other hand, the ascorbic acid content decreased considerably, disappearing at week six. Furthermore, for the unpasteurized-refrigerated and pasteurized-refrigerated samples, a correlation was found between flavonols, total phenols, ascorbic acid, and antioxidant activity determined by the TEAC method. For the pasteurized-room temperature samples, correlations were found between the levels of several flavonols, hydroxycinnamic acid, total phenols, and ascorbic acid and the antioxidant activity determined by the CUPRAC method. The stability of the compounds was mainly correlated with the storage conditions of the juice and not with pasteurization. The highest stability was observed for the unpasteurized-refrigerated and pasteurized-refrigerated samples. Although the concentrations of the compounds evaluated decreased during this study, significant levels of AA persisted, providing beneficial characteristics for consumer health.

Açaí juice stains a glazed resin-modified glass-ionomer cement.

Coloured compounds (anthocyanins) in açaí can stain resin-modified glass-ionomer cement (RMGIC) due to its low staining resistance. AIM: The aim of this study was to assess whether açaí compromises the surface colour and roughness of RMGIC in vitro. MATERIALS AND METHOD: Disc-shaped specimens (2 mm thick, 8 mm in diameter) of Vitremer™ (3M ESPE, St Paul, MN, USA) were prepared according to the manufacturer 's instructions. The mixture was inserted into a silicone mouldplaced between two mylar strips, and light cured. Specimens were randomly divided into three groups (n=25) according to the solutions to be used for chemical degradation: artificial saliva (control), açaí sorbet and açaí juice. A spectrophotometer CM-2600d/2500d (Konica Minolta, Tokyo, Japan) was used to analyse the colour (CIELa*b* scale). Surface roughness (Ra, mm) was measuredusing theprofilometer Surfcorder SE 1700 (Kosaka Corp, Tokyo, Japan). The specimens were subjected to three daily soaks (6 ml, 15 minutes) for 14 days at 37°C. They were washed in distilled water and placed in fresh saliva (30 minutes in the interval). After the third soak in a day, they were stored in fresh saliva overnight. Outcomes were analysed at baseline (L*, a*, b*, Ra) and after degradation (L'*, a'*, b'*, Ra'). RESULTS: The pH values of saliva, sorbet, and juice were 7.0, 3.8, and 4.9, respectively. ΔE* values were 6.6 for saliva, 6.9 for sorbet and 7.8 for juice. There was a significant ΔE* difference between saliva (p=0.005) and juice (p=0.002), and between juice and sorbet (p=0.019), but none between saliva and sorbet (p=0.401). There was no significant Δb* difference between the solutions. No difference between juice and sorbet was observed for Δa*, but they were significantly different from saliva (p<0.001). Brightness (L*) changed significantly. Juice showed the highest ΔE* (7.8) and ΔL* (7.7). No significant change was observed for roughness and there was no difference between the solutions for ARa. CONCLUSIONS: Açaí and saliva led to unacceptable staining, but no significant roughness changes in the resin-modified glass-ionomer cement.

As antocianinas presentes no açaí podem manchar o cimento de ionomero de vidro modificado por resina (CIVMR) devido a baixa resistencia ao manchamento do material. OBJETIVO: O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar se o açaí compromete a cor e a rugosidade de superficie de um CIVMR in vitro. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Amostras (2 mm de espessura, 8 mm de diámetro) de Vitremer™ (3M ESPE, St Paul, MN, USA) foram preparadas de acordo com as instrugoes do fabricante. O materialfoi espatulado, inserido em um molde de silicone colocado entre duas tiras de poliestireno e fotopolimerizado. Após, as amostras foram randomizadas e alocadas em tres grupos (n=25) de acordo com as solugoes usadas para a degradagao química: saliva artificial (controle) e sorbet de açaí e suco de açaí. Utilizou-se o espectrofotometro CM-2600d/2500d (Konica Minolta, Tokyo, Japan) para a análise da cor (escala CIELa*b*) e o rugosímetro Surfcorder SE 1700 (Kosaka Corp, Tokyo, Japan) para a rugosidade de superficie (Ra, mm). As amostras foram submetidas a tres imersoes diárias (6 ml, 15 minutos) em cada solugao por 14 dias a 37°C, tendo sido lavadas em água destilada e mantidas em saliva fresca (30 minutos) nos intervalos. Após a terceira imersao no dia, as amostras foram mantidas em saliva renovada até o dia seguinte. As variáveis foram analisadas antes (L*, a*, b*, Ra) e depois da degradagao química (L'*, a'*, b'*, Ra'). RESULTADOS: Os valores de pH da saliva, sorbet e suco foram, respectivamente 7,0, 3,8 e 4,9. Houve diferenga significante para ΔE* entre saliva (p=0.005) e suco (p=0.002) e entre suco e sorbet (p=0.019), mas nao entre saliva e sorbet (p=0.401). Nao foi observada diferenga significante para Δb* entre as solugoes. Nao houve diferenga significante para Δa* entre suco e sorbet, mas eles foram significativamente diferentes da saliva (p<0.001). A luminosidade (L*) mostrou alteragao significante. O suco mostrou os maiores valores de ΔE* (7,8) e ΔL* (7,7)". Nao houve mudanga significante para a rugosidade e nao foi observada diferenga significante entre as solugoes para ARa (p>0.05). CONCLUSÃO: O açaí e a saliva causaram manchamento inaceitável do glaze do CIVMR e insignificante alteragao da rugosidade.

The Andes as a semi-permeable geographical barrier: Genetic connectivity between structured populations in a widespread spider.

Geographical barriers like mountain ranges impede genetic exchange among populations, promoting diversification. The effectiveness of these barriers in limiting gene flow varies between lineages due to each species' dispersal modes and capacities. Our understanding of how the Andes orogeny contributes to species diversification comes from well-studied vertebrates and a few arthropods and plants, neglecting organisms unable to fly or walk long distances. Some arachnids, such as Gasteracantha cancriformis, have been hypothesized to disperse long distances via ballooning (i.e. using their silk to interact with the wind). Yet, we do not know how the environment and geography shape its genetic diversity. Therefore, we tested whether the Andes contributed to the diversification of G. cancriformis acting as an absolute or semi-permeable barrier to genetic connectivity between populations of this spider at opposite sides of the mountain range. We sampled thousands of loci across the distribution of the species and implemented population genetics, phylogenetic, and landscape genetic analyses. We identified two genetically distinct groups structured by the Central Andes, and a third less structured group in the Northern Andes that shares ancestry with the previous two. This structure is largely explained by the altitude along the Andes, which decreases in some regions, possibly facilitating cross-Andean dispersal and gene flow. Our findings support that altitude in the Andes plays a major role in structuring populations in South America, but the strength of this barrier can be overcome by organisms with long-distance dispersal modes together with altitudinal depressions.

Las barreras geográficas como las cordilleras montañosas impiden el intercambio genético entre poblaciones, promoviendo la diversificación. La efectividad de estas barreras para limitar el flujo genético varía entre linajes debido a los modos y capacidades de dispersión de cada especie. Nuestra comprensión de cómo la orogenia de los Andes contribuye a la diversificación de especies proviene de vertebrados y algunos artrópodos y plantas bien estudiados, descuidando a los organismos incapaces de volar o caminar grandes distancias. Se ha hipotetizado que algunas arañas, como Gasteracantha cancriformis, se dispersan a grandes distancias mediante la técnica de "ballooning" (es decir, utilizando su seda para interactuar con el viento). Sin embargo, no sabemos cómo el entorno y la geografía han dado forma a su diversidad genética. Por lo tanto, probamos si los Andes contribuyeron a la diversificación de G. cancriformis actuando como una barrera absoluta o permeable para la conectividad genética entre poblaciones de esta araña en lados opuestos de la cordillera. Muestreamos miles de loci a través de la distribución de la especie e implementamos análisis de genética de poblaciones, filogenéticos y de genética del paisaje. Identificamos dos grupos genéticamente distintos estructurados por los Andes Centrales, y un tercer grupo menos estructurado en los Andes del Norte que comparte ascendencia con los dos anteriores. Esta estructura se explica en gran medida por la altitud a lo largo de los Andes, que disminuye en algunas regiones, posiblemente facilitando la dispersión y el flujo genético a través de los Andes. Nuestros hallazgos apoyan que la altitud en los Andes juega un papel importante en la estructuración de las poblaciones en América del Sur, pero la fuerza de esta barrera puede ser superada por organismos con modos de dispersión a larga distancia junto con depresiones altitudinales.

Feasibility of Using a Cheap Colour Sensor to Detect Blends of Vegetable Oils in Avocado Oil.

This proof-of-concept study explored the use of an RGB colour sensor to identify different blends of vegetable oils in avocado oil. The main aim of this work was to distinguish avocado oil from its blends with canola, sunflower, corn, olive, and soybean oils. The study involved RGB measurements conducted using two different light sources: UV (395 nm) and white light. Classification methods, such as Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) and Least Squares Support Vector Machine (LS-SVM), were employed for detecting the blends. The LS-SVM model exhibited superior classification performance under white light, with an accuracy exceeding 90%, thus demonstrating a robust prediction capability without evidence of random adjustments. A quantitative approach was followed as well, employing Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) and LS-SVM, for the quantification of each vegetable oil in the blends. The LS-SVM model consistently achieved good performance (R2 > 0.9) in all examined cases, both for internal and external validation. Additionally, under white light, LS-SVM models yielded root mean square errors (RMSE) between 1.17-3.07%, indicating a high accuracy in blend prediction. The method proved to be rapid and cost-effective, without the necessity of any sample pretreatment. These findings highlight the feasibility of a cost-effective colour sensor in identifying avocado oil blended with other oils, such as canola, sunflower, corn, olive, and soybean oils, suggesting its potential as a low-cost and efficient alternative for on-site oil analysis.

Effects of medium voltage electrical stimulation on initial pH decline and quality parameters during ageing and frozen storage of Nellore beef.

This study aimed to evaluate the influence of medium voltage electrical stimulation (ES) at three different intensities, 200 V (Treatment 200 V, T200), 300 V (Treatment 200 V, T300), and 400 V (Treatment 400 V, T400) on the initial pH decline in post mortem muscle and the quality parameters on M. longissimus thoracis - Nellore beef, both throughout the ageing process and during frozen storage. The colour, cooking loss, and shear force parameters for samples of aged beef were determined. Additional parameters, like thaw loss, pH, and lipid oxidation were also analyzed for the frozen storage. The shear force and cooking loss decreased and colour parameters increased in Nellore beef ES compared with CON on ageing time (14 days). At frozen storage, quality parameters like pH, a*, and b* were reduced over time, and no negative effect on lipid oxidation was found. Electrical stimulation at 200 V demonstrated effectiveness for decreasing shear force to Nellore beef (M. longissimus thoracis) during frozen storage. The application of medium voltage electrical stimulation can contribute to improved quality and tenderness in Nellore beef, both during ageing and frozen storage conditions.

Açaí juice stains a glazed resin-modified glass-ionomer cement / Suco de apaí provoca o manchamento do glaze do cimento de ionomero de vidro modificado por resina

ABSTRACT Coloured compounds (anthocyanins) in açaí can stain resin-modified glass-ionomer cement (RMGIC) due to its low staining resistance. Aim The aim of this study was to assess whether açaí compromises the surface colour and roughness of RMGIC in vitro. Materials and Method Disc-shaped specimens (2 mm thick, 8 mm in diameter) of Vitremer™ (3M ESPE, St Paul, MN, USA) were prepared according to the manufacturer 's instructions. The mixture was inserted into a silicone mouldplaced between two mylar strips, and light cured. Specimens were randomly divided into three groups (n=25) according to the solutions to be used for chemical degradation: artificial saliva (control), açaí sorbet and açaí juice. A spectrophotometer CM-2600d/2500d (Konica Minolta, Tokyo, Japan) was used to analyse the colour (CIELa*b* scale). Surface roughness (Ra, mm) was measuredusing theprofilometer Surfcorder SE 1700 (Kosaka Corp, Tokyo, Japan). The specimens were subjected to three daily soaks (6 ml, 15 minutes) for 14 days at 37°C. They were washed in distilled water and placed in fresh saliva (30 minutes in the interval). After the third soak in a day, they were stored in fresh saliva overnight. Outcomes were analysed at baseline (L*, a*, b*, Ra) and after degradation (L'*, a'*, b'*, Ra'). Results The pH values of saliva, sorbet, and juice were 7.0, 3.8, and 4.9, respectively. ΔE* values were 6.6 for saliva, 6.9 for sorbet and 7.8 for juice. There was a significant ΔE* difference between saliva (p=0.005) and juice (p=0.002), and between juice and sorbet (p=0.019), but none between saliva and sorbet (p=0.401). There was no significant Δb* difference between the solutions. No difference between juice and sorbet was observed for Δa*, but they were significantly different from saliva (p<0.001). Brightness (L*) changed significantly. Juice showed the highest ΔE* (7.8) and ΔL* (7.7). No significant change was observed for roughness and there was no difference between the solutions for ARa. Conclusions Açaí and saliva led to unacceptable staining, but no significant roughness changes in the resin-modified glass-ionomer cement.

RESUMO As antocianinas presentes no açaí podem manchar o cimento de ionomero de vidro modificado por resina (CIVMR) devido a baixa resistencia ao manchamento do material. Objetivo O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar se o açaí compromete a cor e a rugosidade de superficie de um CIVMR in vitro. Materials e Método Amostras (2 mm de espessura, 8 mm de diámetro) de Vitremer™ (3M ESPE, St Paul, MN, USA) foram preparadas de acordo com as instrugoes do fabricante. O materialfoi espatulado, inserido em um molde de silicone colocado entre duas tiras de poliestireno e fotopolimerizado. Após, as amostras foram randomizadas e alocadas em tres grupos (n=25) de acordo com as solugoes usadas para a degradagao química: saliva artificial (controle) e sorbet de açaí e suco de açaí. Utilizou-se o espectrofotometro CM-2600d/2500d (Konica Minolta, Tokyo, Japan) para a análise da cor (escala CIELa*b*) e o rugosímetro Surfcorder SE 1700 (Kosaka Corp, Tokyo, Japan) para a rugosidade de superficie (Ra, mm). As amostras foram submetidas a tres imersoes diárias (6 ml, 15 minutos) em cada solugao por 14 dias a 37°C, tendo sido lavadas em água destilada e mantidas em saliva fresca (30 minutos) nos intervalos. Após a terceira imersao no dia, as amostras foram mantidas em saliva renovada até o dia seguinte. As variáveis foram analisadas antes (L*, a*, b*, Ra) e depois da degradagao química (L'*, a'*, b'*, Ra'). Resultados Os valores de pH da saliva, sorbet e suco foram, respectivamente 7,0, 3,8 e 4,9. Houve diferenga significante para ΔE* entre saliva (p=0.005) e suco (p=0.002) e entre suco e sorbet (p=0.019), mas nao entre saliva e sorbet (p=0.401). Nao foi observada diferenga significante para Δb* entre as solugoes. Nao houve diferenga significante para Δa* entre suco e sorbet, mas eles foram significativamente diferentes da saliva (p<0.001). A luminosidade (L*) mostrou alteragao significante. O suco mostrou os maiores valores de ΔE* (7,8) e ΔL* (7,7)". Nao houve mudanga significante para a rugosidade e nao foi observada diferenga significante entre as solugoes para ARa (p>0.05). Conclusao O açaí e a saliva causaram manchamento inaceitável do glaze do CIVMR e insignificante alteragao da rugosidade.

Exploring alternatives for securing anatomical structures in capturing digital images: A comparative analysis.

Teaching veterinary anatomy using digital platforms requires improved image quality, which may influence the fixation process. This study aimed to compare four embalming solutions for high-colour-quality images of different tissues compared to the original image. Four equine left pelvic limbs were cut into metameres and divided equally for application of 10% formaldehyde, 96% glycerine, 33% hypersaturated NaCl solution and modified Larssen solution, respectively, which was maintained for 3 days. After drying for 3 days at room temperature, photographs were obtained at time 0 (T0), without any fixation process (original colour); time 1 (T1), immediately after removal from the solutions; and every 24 h for 3 days (T2-T4). The image colour quality was investigated by digitally evaluating the cortical bone, tendon and bone marrow using histograms and CIEDE2000 as well as by 10 specialists in an online survey. CIEDE2000 and histograms revealed that all fixation solutions changed the original tissue colour at all the time points (p < 0.0001). According to the specialists, the 33% saline solution produced the best results compared to the original one. The modified Larssen solution demonstrated better results for the tendon, marrow and cortical bone at T3 (p = 0.0015). Considering the colour of digital images, the modified Larssen solution provided the best results; however, the visual evaluation by the specialists revealed the 33% saline solution as the best.

The Flower Colour Influences Spontaneous Nectaring in Butterflies: a Case Study with Twenty Subtropical Butterflies.

Butterflies have a wide spectrum of colour vision, and changes in flower colour influence both the visiting and nectaring (the act of feeding on flower nectar) events of them. However, the spontaneous behavioural response of butterflies while foraging on real flowers is less characterised in wild conditions. Hence, this study intends to investigate flower colour affinity in wild butterflies in relation to nectaring frequency (NF) and nectaring duration (ND). Six distinct flower colours were used to study spontaneous nectaring behaviour in 20 species of subtropical butterflies. Both NF and ND greatly varied in the flower colours they offered. Yellow flowers were frequently imbibed by butterflies for longer durations, followed by orange, while red, pink, white and violet flowers were occasionally nectared in shorter bouts. Though butterflies have a general tendency to nectar on multiple flower colours, the Nymphalids were more biased towards nectaring on yellow flowers, but Papilionids preferred both yellow and orange, while the Pierids were likely to display an equal affinity for yellow, orange and violet flowers as their first order of preference. Even if the blooms are associated with higher nectar concentrations or a significant grade reward, the butterfly may prefer to visit different-coloured flowers instead. Flower colour choice appears to be a generalist phenomenon for butterflies, but their specialist visiting nature was also significant. Nymphalid representatives responded to a wider variety of floral colour affinities than Pierid and Papilionid species. The colour preference of butterflies aids in the identification of flowers during foraging and influences subsequent foraging decisions, which ultimately benefits pollination success. The current information will support the preservation and conservation of butterflies in their natural habitats.

Pollination syndromes and the origins of floral traits.

BACKGROUND: A general view in the study of pollination syndromes is that floral traits usually represent convergent floral adaptations to specific functional pollinator groups. However, the definition of convergence is elusive and contradictory in the literature. Is convergence the independent evolution of either the same trait or similar traits with the same function? A review of the concept of convergence in developmental biology and phylogenetic systematics may shed new light in studies of pollination syndromes. SCOPE: The aims of this article are (1) to explore the notion of convergence and other concepts (analogy, homoplasy and parallelism) within the theory and practice of developmental evolution and phylogenetic systematics; (2) to modify the definitions of syndromes in order to embrace the concepts of analogy and convergence; (3) to revisit the bat pollination syndrome in the context of angiosperm phylogeny, with focus on the showy 'petaloid' organs associated with the syndrome; (4) to revisit the genetic-developmental basis of flower colour; (5) to raise evolutionary hypotheses of floral evolution associated with the bat pollination syndrome; and (6) to highlight some of the current frontiers of research on the origin and evolution of flowers and its impact on pollination syndrome studies in the 21st century. CONCLUSIONS: The inclusion of the concepts of analogy and convergence within the concept of syndromes will constitute a new agenda of inquiry that integrates floral biology, phylogenetic systematics and developmental biology. Phyllostomid and pteropodid bat pollination syndrome traits in eudicots and monocots represent cases of analogous and convergent evolution. Pollination syndromes are a multivariate concept intrinsically related to the understanding of flower organogenesis and evolution. The formulation of hypotheses of pollination syndromes must consider the phylogenetic levels of universality for both plant and animal taxa, flower development, genetics, homology and evolution, and a clear definition of evolutionary concepts, including analogy, convergence, homoplasy and parallelism.

Inflammatory parameters and color alterations of dental bleaching in patients wearing fixed orthodontic appliance: a randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Many orthodontic patients request dental bleaching during orthodontic treatment to achieve a faster aesthetic resolution, however, no attention has been paid to the inflammatory processes that can occur when both therapies are indicated together. So, this clinical trial evaluated the inflammatory parameters and color alterations associated with dental bleaching in patients wearing a fixed orthodontic appliance. METHODS: Thirty individuals aged between 18 and 40 years were equally and randomly allocated into three groups: FOA (fixed orthodontic appliance), BLE (dental bleaching), and FOA + BLE (fixed orthodontic appliance + dental bleaching). The orthodontic appliances and the bleaching procedures were performed in the maxillary premolars and molars. For dental bleaching a 35% hydrogen peroxide was used. The gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and nitric oxide (NO-) levels were evaluated at different time-points. Color evaluation was performed using an Easyshade spectrophotometer at baseline (FOA, FOA + BLE, BLE), one month after (FOA + BLE) and 21 days after appliance removing (FOA + BLE and FOA groups), in each tooth bleached. The ANOVA and Tukey's tests, with a significance level of 5%, were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The GCF volume in the FOA + BLE and FOA groups significantly increased at the time points evaluated (p < 0.001); however, this did not occur in the BLE group (p > 0.05). On the other hand, NO- levels significantly decreased during dental bleaching with or without fixed orthodontic appliances (FOA + BLE and BLE groups; p < 0.05), while no significant changes were observed in the FOA group (p > 0.05). Significant changes in color were observed in the FOA + BLE and BLE groups compared to in the FOA group (p < 0.01). However, the presence of fixed orthodontic appliance (FOA + BLE) negatively affected the bleaching efficacy compared to BLE group (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Dental bleaching did not increase the inflammatory parameters in patients wearing fixed orthodontic appliance. However, in the presence of orthodontic appliances, the bleaching efficacy was lower than that of bleaching teeth without orthodontic appliances. TRIAL REGISTRATION: RBR-3sqsh8 (first trial registration: 09/07/2018).

The effect of whitening toothpastes on colour change and surface roughness of restorative materials

To examine the colour change and surface roughness of giomer, microhybrid composite and nanohybrid composite after brushing with whitening toothpastes. Disc-shaped samples of giomer, microhybrid composite and nanohybrid composite were divided into three subgroups(n=10), with the initial colour measured with a spectrophotometer and the surface roughness measured with a mechanical profilometer. The samples, which were immersed in coffee solution were brushed once a day with whitening toothpastes (Opalescence Cool Mint (OCM), Colgate Optic White Extra Power (COW) and Signal White Now Gold (SWN)) for 12 days. Colour change and surface roughness were measured again after the colouring-brushing cycle. All of the analyses were performed using appropriate statistical hypothesis tests. The highest increase in surface roughness was seen in the microhybrid composite group applied with SWN (p<0.05). The group with the least increase was the giomer group applied with SWN (p<0.05). While the least colour change was observed in the COW applied nanohybrid composite group (ΔE00=1,814), the most colour change occurred in the COW applied giomer group (ΔE00=5.943). After the use of whitening toothpastes, the roughness of giomer, microhybrid composite and nanohybrid composite surfaces was increased and a colour change above the clinically accepted value was observed.

El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar el cambio de color y la rugosidad de la superficie de giomer, resina compuesta microhíbrida y resina compuesta nanohíbrida posterior al cepillado con dentífricos blanqueadores. Las muestras en forma de disco de cada material se dividieron en tres subgrupos (n=10), con el color inicial medido con un espectrofotómetro y la rugosidad de la superficie medida con un perfilómetro mecánico. Las muestras, que se sumergieron en una solución de café, se cepillaron una vez al día con pastas dentales blanqueadoras (Opalescence Cool Mint (OCM), Colgate Optic White Extra Power (COW) y Signal White Now Gold (SWN)) durante 12 días. El cambio de color y la rugosidad de la superficie se midieron nuevamente después del ciclo de coloración-cepillado. El mayor aumento en la rugosidad de la superficie se observó en el grupo de la resina compuesta microhíbrida al que se le aplicó SWN (p<0,05). El grupo de menor incremento fue el grupo de giomer aplicado con SWN (p<0.05). Mientras que el menor cambio de color se observó en el grupo de resina compuesta nanohíbrida aplicado con COW (ΔE00=1,814), el mayor cambio de color ocurrió en el grupo de giomer con COW (ΔE00=5,943). Posterior al uso de pastas dentales blanqueadoras, la rugosidad del giomer, y de las resinas compuestas microhíbridas y nanohíbridas aumentó, siendo que se observó un cambio de color por encima del valor clínicamente aceptado.

The pro-oxidant action of high-oxygen MAP on beef patties can be counterbalanced by antioxidant compounds from common hawthorn and rose hips.

The objective of this research was to evaluate the effectiveness of antioxidant-rich extracts from rose hip (Rosa canina L.; RC) and hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna Jacq.; CM) at minimizing the oxidative damage to proteins and lipids in beef patties subjected to a high­oxygen (HiOx-MAP) and vacuum (Vacuum) packaging atmosphere. The extracts of RC and CM were characterized by quantifying bioactive compounds, namely, phenolic compounds, tocopherols and vitamin C. Both fruits had high concentrations of bioactive compounds, with RC having the highest total phenolic and vitamin C content. Yet, CM was the most efficient in protecting beef patties against protein carbonylation, reducing, as a result, the instrumental toughness in cooked beef patties. The use of CM and RC extracts in beef patties significantly improved consumer purchase intention in HiOx-MAP packaging systems. The use of CM and RC extracts or their combination in future research would be an effective antioxidant means to decrease the pro-oxidative effects caused by HiOx-MAP in red meat.

Extending records of albinism and skin disorders in American cownose rays to southeastern Brazil.

Albinism is a genetic condition expressed as a lack of integumentary and retinal melanin. Although documented across many vertebrate species, albinism and other skin disorders are rarely observed in elasmobranchs (sharks and rays). The present study describes the first confirmed case of albinism in American cownose ray (Rhinoptera bonasus), and three other juveniles of the species with undetermined skin disorders observed in São Paulo, southeastern Brazil. Pigmentation disorders have already been observed in American cownose rays from the North Atlantic, including two cases of leucism and a possible albinism. Based on the results, it was discussed the possible consequences of albinism for the ray survival as well as the possible causes for the undetermined skin disorders.

Central Centrifugal Cicatricial Alopecia in the Adolescent Population: An Overview of Available Literature.

Central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (CCCA) is a lymphocytic scarring alopecia that predominantly affects women of African descent. Recent studies have demonstrated prevalence in children and adolescents, as well as Asian populations. A thorough search of Pubmed, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, OVID Medline and Google Scholar was conducted using keywords such as "central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia", "scarring hair loss", "scarring alopecia", "hot comb alopecia", "pediatric" and "adolescent". The results yielded few articles in the literature that directly addressed CCCA in the adolescent population, with three articles providing details of the presentation in the form of case series and retrospective reviews. The presentation in the adolescent population was found to be varied, ranging from asymptomatic to symptomatic and involving diffuse to patchy hair loss in only the vertex and/or frontal and parietal scalp. Genetic and environmental etiologies were found to be statistically significant, and markers of metabolic dysregulation predisposing patients to diabetes mellitus and breast cancer were also uncovered. The differential diagnosis of patients who present with hair loss in the adolescent population should therefore be broad, and a low threshold for biopsies should be adopted to confirm CCCA in suspected patients. This will have future implications for reduced morbidity and public health.

Tea authentication and determination of chemical constituents using digital image-based fingerprint signatures and chemometrics.

Tea (Camellia sinensis) fraud has been frequently identified and involves tampering with the labelling of inferior products or without geographical origin certification and even mixing them with superior quality teas to mask an adulteration. Consequently, economic losses and health damage to consumers are observed. Thus, a Chemometrics-assisted Color Histogram-based Analytical System (CACHAS) was employed a simple, cost-effective, reliable, and green analytical tool to screen the quality of teas. Data-Driven Soft Independent Modeling of Class Analogy was used to authenticate their geographical origin and category simultaneously, recognizing correctly all Argentinean and Sri Lankan black teas and Argentinean green teas. For the determination of moisture, total polyphenols, and caffeine, Partial Least Squares obtained satisfactory predictive abilities, with values of root mean squared error of prediction (RMSEP) of 0.50, 0.788, and 0.25 mg kg-1, rpred of 0.81, 0.902, and 0.81, and relative error of prediction (REP) of 6.38, 9.031, and 14.58%., respectively. CACHAS proved to be a good alternative tool for environmentally-friendly non-destructive chemical analysis.

Influence of salivary acquired pellicle on colour changes and minerals content of dentine after application of silver diamine fluoride followed by potassium iodide.

PURPOSE: This study evaluated whether the presence of the salivary acquired pellicle (AP) had any effect on the dentin's darkening and on the caries arresting effect after the use of SDF + KI, in a cariogenic challenge. METHODS: Human dentin specimens were standardised, submitted to artificial caries lesion formation, and divided into five groups (n = 20): C: control group-no treatment, SDF: 38% SDF, APSDF: SDF 38% and AP, KISDF: 38% SDF and KI, and APKISDF: 38% SDF, KI and AP, that were submitted to pH cycling. Colour evaluation (CIE L*a*b* system) and surface hardness were performed before and after the treatments/pH cycling. RESULTS: SDF and APSDF groups showed no difference in colour. KISDF and APKISDF groups showed significantly different colours than the groups without KI. SDF, APSDF, and APKISDF groups had less mineral loss than C and KISDF. SDF, APSDF, and APKISDF revealed significantly greater mineral recovery, compared to KISDF and C. CONCLUSION: The AP did not influence the dentin´s colour after SDF + KI, but had a protective role in modulating the dentin´s mineral gain/loss. KI used after SDF decreased the dentin´s darkening, and did not interfere with the dentin de/remineralization process.