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Journal of Equine Veterinary Science Jun 2024Mastication is the initial phase of digestion and is crucial to equine health due to its role in saliva production and food particle reduction. Hay nets have been...
Mastication is the initial phase of digestion and is crucial to equine health due to its role in saliva production and food particle reduction. Hay nets have been promoted to slow the rate of hay consumption, with many styles of slow feeders available. Limited research has shown that nets may slow consumption, but no research has examined their effect on the horse's chewing frequency and patterns. The objective of this study was to compare chew frequency (CF, total number of chews/kg consumed) and chew duration (CD, total minutes chewed/kg consumed), as well as distribution of chews over a feeding period, of horses eating bermudagrass hay in three styles of hay nets [large mesh (LM), small mesh (SM), bottom hole (BH)] as compared to a control of loose hay (CTL). Treatments were assigned in a replicated Latin square 4 × 4 using eight horses. Horses were given a 24-hr acclimation period prior to recording their chewing patterns over a 24-hr period using an automated halter fit with a pressure-sensor noseband. Results indicate that CF was not influenced by treatment. However, SM resulted in longer CD as compared to CTL (P=0.007). Additionally, BH resulted in a higher percentage of chews completed in the first 240 min compared to SM (P=0.039), indicating more rapid consumption. Results of this study indicate hay nets may not influence the number of chews a horse performs while masticating hay, but small mesh feeders may increase the CD and reduce early consumption rate.
PubMed: 38908808
DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2024.105133 -
BMC Geriatrics Jun 2024Increase in functional disability in aging societies is an international medical and public health issue. Masticatory function may be a potential risk factor for... (Observational Study)
Observational Study
BACKGROUND
Increase in functional disability in aging societies is an international medical and public health issue. Masticatory function may be a potential risk factor for functional disability, but the role of frailty in the association has not been clarified.
METHODS
Forty thousand five hundred sixty-two community-dwelling older adults aged 65 years and over who were insured by public health insurance as of April 2018 were followed up for a median of 3.0 years. Masticatory function was categorized as good, moderate, or poor based on a self-reported questionnaire. The development of functional disability was defined as a new certification of the need for long-term care. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs).
RESULTS
During the follow-up period, 1,397 individuals experienced functional disability. After adjusting for age, sex, comorbidities, medical history, and lifestyle behaviors, the HR for incident functional disability was significantly higher in the moderate and poor groups compared to the good group (moderate, HR 1.21 [95% CI, 1.07-1.37]; poor, HR 1.64 [95% CI, 1.03-2.62]). However, after additional adjustment for frailty-related factors-namely, underweight, regular exercise, and gait speed-the association was attenuated in both the moderate group (HR 1.06 [95% CI, 0.94-1.21]) and the poor group (HR 1.51 [95% CI, 0.94-2.41]).
CONCLUSIONS
Masticatory dysfunction was significantly associated with incident functional disability in a community-dwelling older Japanese population. Our findings suggest that masticatory dysfunction may be a surrogate of frailty rather than a direct cause of functional disability.
Topics: Humans; Aged; Male; Female; Frailty; Mastication; Aged, 80 and over; Independent Living; Frail Elderly; Disabled Persons; Disability Evaluation; Risk Factors; Geriatric Assessment; Japan
PubMed: 38907214
DOI: 10.1186/s12877-024-05131-w -
Unravelling the Complexities of Bite Force Determinants in Paediatric Patients: A Literature Review.Cureus May 2024The amount of maximum voluntary bite force (MVBF) is determined by the combined action of the jaw elevator muscles, which are altered jaw biomechanics and reflex... (Review)
Review
The amount of maximum voluntary bite force (MVBF) is determined by the combined action of the jaw elevator muscles, which are altered jaw biomechanics and reflex processes. Bite force (BF) measurements can yield valuable information on the activity and function of the jaw muscles. The accuracy of biting force measurements depends on several variables, including age, gender, malocclusion, dental caries, dental prostheses and temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This information is essential for evaluating the development and function of the masticatory system, identifying potential abnormalities or impairments and guiding appropriate treatment interventions for paediatric patients. The aim of this article is to review the literature on the factors affecting bite force and the importance of these factors in assessing dental development and guiding interventions for paediatric patients with bite force-related issues. Additionally, establishing normative values for bite force in different age groups can aid in monitoring growth and detecting any deviations from expected patterns. Measuring bite force in paediatric patients is significant in comprehensive oral health assessment and management.
PubMed: 38903313
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.60630 -
Proceedings. Biological Sciences Jun 2024The morphology and biomechanics of infant crania undergo significant changes between the pre- and post-weaning phases due to increasing loading of the masticatory...
The morphology and biomechanics of infant crania undergo significant changes between the pre- and post-weaning phases due to increasing loading of the masticatory system. The aims of this study were to characterize the changes in muscle forces, bite forces and the pattern of mechanical strain and stress arising from the aforementioned forces across crania in the first 48 months of life using imaging and finite element methods. A total of 51 head computed tomography scans of normal individuals were collected and analysed from a larger database of 217 individuals. The estimated mean muscle forces of temporalis, masseter and medial pterygoid increase from 30.9 to 87.0 N, 25.6 to 69.6 N and 23.1 to 58.9 N, respectively (0-48 months). Maximum bite force increases from 90.5 to 184.2 N (3-48 months). There is a change in the pattern of strain and stress from the calvaria to the face during postnatal development. Overall, this study highlights the changes in the mechanics of the craniofacial system during normal development. It further raises questions as to how and what level of changes in the mechanical forces during the development can alter the morphology of the craniofacial system.
Topics: Infant; Humans; Bite Force; Biomechanical Phenomena; Skull; Child, Preschool; Tomography, X-Ray Computed; Finite Element Analysis; Female; Male; Mastication; Adaptation, Physiological; Infant, Newborn; Stress, Mechanical; Masticatory Muscles
PubMed: 38889789
DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2024.0654 -
Indian Journal of Otolaryngology and... Jun 2024Objective evaluation of swallowing using single bolus consistency are popular among Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) but has limited generalization to other bolus...
BACKGROUND
Objective evaluation of swallowing using single bolus consistency are popular among Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) but has limited generalization to other bolus consistencies. The Swallowing Proficiency for Eating and Drinking (SPEAD) test assesses the oral and pharyngeal phases of swallowing using three different consistencies.
OBJECTIVES
The aim of this study was to establish normative data for the SPEAD test among healthy individuals aged 20-79 years.
METHOD AND MATERIALS
One hundred and twelve healthy adults recruited from the community were divided into three age groups (20-39.11, 40-59.11, & 60-79.11 years). Participants swallowing 100 g of water and thickened Electral, and 6.67 g of Parle Monaco was video recorded for data analysis.
RESULTS
Cronbachs Alpha test indicated good to excellent internal consistency and inter-class correlation test revealed a high level of inter-rater reliability for all SPEAD parameters. Older adults exhibited a higher number of bites, chews, and swallows, and required more time to swallow compared to younger and middle adults. Similarly, speed of ingestion and SPEAD rate were lowest in older adults. SPEAD indices also showed significant differences across the three consistencies at < 0.01.
CONCLUSION
In summary, the SPEAD test was found to be feasible, reliable, and valid in healthy adults of India between 20 and 79 years of age. The age and sex based normative data established in this study will enable SLPs in assessing the presence and / or absence of swallowing difficulties in the oral and pharyngeal phases across different consistencies using one test.
PubMed: 38883485
DOI: 10.1007/s12070-024-04575-1 -
Journal of Pharmacy & Bioallied Sciences Apr 2024Cancers affecting the parts of the head and neck significantly impact patients. Among head and neck cancer (HNC) patients, the visible signs and symptoms of the disease...
INTRODUCTION
Cancers affecting the parts of the head and neck significantly impact patients. Among head and neck cancer (HNC) patients, the visible signs and symptoms of the disease or the side effects of treatment modalities can cause various degrees of functional impairment such as mastication, swallowing, communication, and disfigurement.
OBJECTIVE
To assess psychological distress and quality of life in head and neck cancer patients after 3 and 6 months' post-treatment.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
A hospital-based follow-up study was conducted among head and neck cancer patients who came for routine follow-up after treatment in five cancer hospitals in Hyderabad City. Patients were categorized based on the treatment into surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and combination of all and the same subjects were followed; after 3 months, psychological distress and quality of life were assessed by distress thermometer and functional assessment of cancer therapy head and neck (FACT H and N).
RESULTS
A total of 235 participants were included in the study. Mean age was 58.2 ± 8.7 years. The mean scores of psychological distress at baseline were 4.6 ± 1.2, and after follow-up, it was 3.4 ± 1.2 and the mean scores of quality of life at baseline were 76.4 ± 15.6, and after follow-up, it was 75.5 ± 12.5.
CONCLUSION
The mean scores of psychological distress had reduced from baseline to follow-up with negligible improvement in the quality of life.
PubMed: 38882774
DOI: 10.4103/jpbs.jpbs_1039_23 -
Journal of Oral Rehabilitation Jun 2024Limited data exist on the mid- to long-term masticatory capacity of mandibular overdenture (IOD) wearers, particularly regarding the use of posterior implants to...
BACKGROUND
Limited data exist on the mid- to long-term masticatory capacity of mandibular overdenture (IOD) wearers, particularly regarding the use of posterior implants to retention.
OBJECTIVES
To periodically evaluate mastication of IOD wearers, comparing the effectiveness of two to four implants to retain the prosthesis.
METHODS
In a randomised controlled clinical trial, 20 complete edentulous patients (14 women), aged 51-84 years (mean age 69.1 ± 9.6), received new bimaxillary complete dentures (CD). After adaptation, baseline measurements of masticatory performance (X) and swallowing threshold were conducted using the sieving method. Patients were then randomly assigned to groups: control (two intra-foraminal regular implants) and experimental (two intra-foraminal regular implants and two extra-short posterior implants) (n = 10 each). After 4 months, implants were splinted, and a new mandibular IOD was fabricated with bar/clip retention. Mastication was reassessed after 6, 12, and 48 months, and data analysed with repeated measures ANOVA and Sidak's post hoc (α = 0.05).
RESULTS
Despite a loss of two patients per group, masticatory performance significantly improved after mandibular IOD installation (p = .031) in both groups (p = .670). A second improvement was observed after 6 months (p = .027), with no subsequent changes (p > .05). Swallowing threshold improvements were noted with IOD, and no discernible differences between groups were observed (p > .05).
CONCLUSION
Masticatory function significantly improved after mandibular IOD installation, with the number of implants demonstrating minimal influence.
CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION
The present study was not registered in a public database, as mandated. It is important to note that the recommendation for registration was initiated in 2017 by the Committee of Medical Journal Editors, while patient inclusion in the research took place in 2016. Given that the data presented in this manuscript cover a follow-up period of up to 4 years post-surgical intervention, delayed registration was not feasible.
PubMed: 38873742
DOI: 10.1111/joor.13781 -
Journal of Oral Rehabilitation Jun 2024Orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMD) are often associated with limitations of oral ingestion of solid food. The Test of Masticating and Swallowing Solids (ToMaSS) is...
BACKGROUND
Orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMD) are often associated with limitations of oral ingestion of solid food. The Test of Masticating and Swallowing Solids (ToMaSS) is a simple diagnostic tool to assess and quantify oropharyngeal efficiency while eating a standardised cracker.
OBJECTIVES
The objective of this study was to investigate the applicability and clinical utility of the ToMaSS in children with OMD.
METHODS
In this case-control study, data were collected from 18 children between 4 and 11 years with confirmed OMD. Inter-rater reliability and age effects on the ToMaSS parameters were investigated and the specific performance profile of the OMD children was identified.
RESULTS
Inter-rater reliability was excellent for the ToMaSS parameters 'bites' (ICC = .999), 'masticatory cycles' (ICC = .961), 'time'(ICC≧ .999) and good for 'number of swallows' (ICC = .810). 'Masticatory cycles' and 'time' decreased as a function of age with a significant difference in the 'number of masticatory cycles' between the youngest (4-6 years) and oldest (10-14 years) participants (p = .006, Z = -2.739). Deviations from normative data in at least one of the four ToMaSS parameters were found in 90% of the OMD children with 'bites', and 'masticatory cycles' predominantly corresponding to the performances expected in typically-developing children in younger age groups.
CONCLUSIONS
The ToMaSS is a reliable diagnostic instrument and clinically useful to detect limited efficiency of oral solid bolus intake and specific impairments in chewing function and duration of food intake in children with OMD. Our data suggest that OMD is associated with delayed development of efficient solid bolus preparation.
PubMed: 38873707
DOI: 10.1111/joor.13776 -
Anatomical Record (Hoboken, N.J. : 2007) Jun 2024Facial musculature in mammals underlies mastication and nonverbal communicative facial displays. Our understanding of primate facial expression comes primarily from...
Facial musculature in mammals underlies mastication and nonverbal communicative facial displays. Our understanding of primate facial expression comes primarily from haplorrhines (monkeys and apes), while our understanding of strepsirrhine (lemurs and lorises) facial expression remains incomplete. We examined the facial muscles of six specimens from three Nycticebus species (Nycticebus coucang, Nycticebus javanicus, and Nycticebus menagensis) using traditional dissection methodology and novel three-dimensional facial scanning to produce a detailed facial muscle map, and compared these results to another nocturnal strepsirrhine genus, the greater bushbaby (Otolemur spp.). We observed 19 muscles with no differences among Nycticebus specimens. A total of 17 muscles were observed in both Nycticebus and Otolemur, with little difference in attachment and function but some difference in directionality of movement. In the oral region, we note the presence of the depressor anguli oris, which has been reported in other primate species but is absent in Otolemur. The remaining muscle is a previously undescribed constrictor nasalis muscle located on the lateral nasal alar region, likely responsible for constriction of the nares. We propose this newly described muscle may relate to vomeronasal organ functioning and the importance of the use of nasal musculature in olfactory communication. We discuss how this combined methodology enabled imaging of small complex muscles. We further discuss how the facial anatomy of Nycticebus spp. relates to their unique physiology and behavioral ecology.
PubMed: 38872582
DOI: 10.1002/ar.25519 -
Swiss Dental Journal Jun 2024This study investigated and compared the consistency and compressive strength of two commercially available paraffin wax chewing gums (Aurosan (AU) and GC Europe (GC)),... (Comparative Study)
Comparative Study
This study investigated and compared the consistency and compressive strength of two commercially available paraffin wax chewing gums (Aurosan (AU) and GC Europe (GC)), as well as their impact on stimulated salivary flow rate. Instrumental texture analysis was uti-lized to assess the consistency and compressive strength of AU and GC during a 7-min chewing period. Subsequently, stimulated salivary flow rate (sSFR) was evaluated in healthy subjects using AU and GC over a 7-minute period. The compressive strengths from the pre-liminary test were compared over time with the sialometry data. Eighty-one test subjects, comprising 33 men and 48 women, participated. Over the 7-min measurement period, dif-ferences were observed in the total amount of saliva accumulated per minute. Direct com-parison of AU and GC revealed that regardless of age and gender, the amount of saliva formed after 1 min was 0.63 times less with AU than with GC (95% CI: 0.56 - 0.70; P < 0.001). The accumulated saliva volume with AU was also significantly lower than that with GC in the first 4 min (P = 0.016). However, from minute 5 onwards, the two products no longer showed statistical differences in the total amount of saliva. Comparison of the com-pressive strength of AU and GC showed that the values after 1 and 2 min were significantly higher for AU than for GC (P < 0.05); for all other time points, the compressive strength was higher for GC. In the mixed-effects model after log-transformation of compressive strength and saliva volume, GC exhibited decreasing saliva volumes with increasing compressive strength (P <0.001). Conversely, the opposite was observed for AU (P = 0.019). The study suggests that the consistency or compressive strength of paraffin wax chewing gums from different manufacturers could impact sSFR.
Topics: Humans; Female; Male; Paraffin; Chewing Gum; Adult; Saliva; Compressive Strength; Mastication; Young Adult; Middle Aged; Secretory Rate
PubMed: 38864504
DOI: 10.61872/sdj-2024-03-09