The cellulose-rich walls that protect plant cells are difficult to digest, and therefore mechanical food processing is a key aspect of herbivory across vertebrates. Cell walls are typically broken down by translation of flattened teeth in the occlusal plane (i.e. grinding) as part of a complex, rhythmic chewing stroke. The grass carp, Ctenopharyngodon idella, is a voracious, invasive herbivorou...

Streptococcus mutans is strongly associated with caries in humans1 and its level in the mouth can be a good indicator of caries-risk. However, caries is a multifactorial disease and the presence of high levels of Streptococcus mutans at a particular site does not imply that such a site will inevitably develop a lesion. In addition, Streptococcus mutans is not found alone in association with car...

Xylitol was first discovered in the 19th century, it wasn’t until the 1960’s that commercial production was first implemented. Recent studies showed that xylitol chewing gum is beneficial for preventing caries and periodontal disease. Therefore, it is also advantageous for orthodontic treatment, especially the fixed orthodontics patients who have difficulties in acquiring optimal oral health, p...

Nearly 100% of U.S. artichoke production comes from California and is concentrated in Monterey County. California meadow voles are damaging rodent pests that can threaten the profitability of growing artichokes. A practical population monitoring method can be invaluable to integrated pest management programs for guiding when and where control is needed and assessing control efficacy. The standa...

PURPOSE This pilot study evaluated the acceptance and compliance of a xylitol chewing gum regimen by both children and classroom teachers in a Head Start program. METHODS Thirty-five children chewed 100% xylitol gum (XyliFresh 100%, Leaf, Inc., 500 Field Dr., Lake Forest, IL 60045 U.S.A.) three times a day over a three week period. Children's acceptance was evaluated using a picture selection...

BACKGROUND The authors provide an overview of chewing gum as a delivery vehicle for dental-protective agents, highlighting xylitol and its potential application in caries-prevention programs for children. TYPES OF STUDIES REVIEWED The authors reviewed selected clinical investigations and previous reviews associated with chewing gum containing substances such as calcium, bicarbonate, carbamide...

BACKGROUND Betel quid chewing, often combined with tobacco chewing, is a common habit in the Indian subcontinent. It is associated with the development of malignancy of the oral mucosa and foregut. Among Asian communities in the United Kingdom (UK), Bangladeshis are particularly likely to retain this habit. AIM To investigate the prevalence of betel quid chewing, smoking, and knowledge of hea...