Weeks Of Usage Research Articles

A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study for safety and efficacy of SesZen-Bio™: a proprietary Sesbania grandiflora extract in managing hair and scalp health in healthy adults

Background: Hair loss, a common multifactorial condition affecting both genders, results from causes like extrinsic factors (pollution, sun, humidity, and temperature), nutritional variation, or intrinsic factors such as ageing, heredity, hormonal and medical conditions. Some of the damages caused by these factors can be effectively managed with multivitamins, minerals, antioxidant natural products. Present study assessed use of standardised herbal Sesbania grandiflora extract for improving hair density, hair thickness and scalp health along with a serum biomarker to establish the probable mechanism of action. Methods: The study was approved by the ethics committee and was conducted as per standard national regulations. 51 randomized subjects (mean age: 39.40±5.80 years) received either test-treatment or placebo for consecutive 56 days. Instrumental assessments included a phototrichogram to assess hair density, thickness, and scalp condition. Results: SesZen-BioTM which is derived from Sesbania grandiflora extracts showed an improvement in hair density, hair thickness and ferritin in 8 weeks of usage suggesting it stimulates the keratin production which resulted in improved follicle growth. By day 56 of usage, hair density and thickness improved by 58.92±28.69 cm2 and 3.68±2.69 μm respectively from baseline (both p<0.0001) in the treatment group. This indicates towards 25% improvement in hair density, 16.94% in hair thickness and almost 72% volunteers indicated an improvement in hair health along with 27% increase in serum ferritin. Conclusions: Sesbania grandiflora extract -SesZen-Bio® showed beneficial nutritional effects on research subjects, proving its usefulness as a well-tolerated and efficient daily supplement to improve hair health.

A prospective study on change of QTc interval with antipsychotic medications in patients of schizophrenia and related psychotic disorder

Background: Sudden unexplained death in individuals with mental health problems was described in 1960 and a link with antipsychotic drugs was postulated over 40 years ago. Down the years, a clear relation between electrocardiography (ECG) abnormalities and antipsychotic use was observed with special emphasis on QT prolongation. Various factors modulate the risk of QT prolongation including gender, age, race, and drug choice. An evaluation of antipsychotic use-induced QT changes in Eastern Indian population is the dire need of the hour. Aims and Objectives: The aim and objective are to study the effects of risperidone, olanzapine, and aripiprazole on QT interval after a period of 4 weeks of usage in previously drug-naïve Eastern Indian psychotic patients. Materials and Methods: A total of 78 drug-naïve patients fulfilling inclusion and exclusion criteria were randomly assigned to receive risperidone, olanzapine, and aripiprazole after a baseline ECG. A repeat ECG after 4 weeks of drug usage was done and compared using standard protocols with respect to QT interval. Findings were tabulated and statistical analysis was done using SPSS 25.0 to test for statistical significance at P<0.05. Results: Our study found significant rise in QT values after 4 weeks of using olanzapine and aripiprazole, but not with risperidone. However, none of the patients from either of the groups experienced any incidence of QT prolongation. Rise with olanzapine was significantly higher than that with risperidone. Conclusion: Caution is suggested in patients with risk factors for QT prolongation or a high value of QT during prescribing olanzapine. Studies with larger sample size can be carried out to find genetic predisposition of Indian population to anti-psychotic induced QT interval rise/prolongation.

Daily use of a bakuchiol and squalane-containing face serum impacts skin esthetics

Objectives: The objective is to determine the impact of an oil-based face serum containing bakuchiol and squalane in improving skin esthetics such as texture and tone upon daily use. Material and Methods: A non-comparative, single-arm study on 50 females (aged 18–50 years) with Fitzpatrick skin types III and IV was conducted for four weeks. The impact of the formulation on skin-related parameters was determined by instrumental analysis and dermatologist evaluation. Cosmetic acceptability and safety of the preparation were recorded through self-evaluation questionnaires. Results: The formulation was safe and well tolerated throughout the study duration. A significant reduction in the appearance of age/dark spots (ITA°), Δ ITA° = 38.28% compared to baseline, was observed in two weeks. Up to 11.9% improvement in skin elasticity was noted in four weeks of usage. The continuous once-a-day application also helped in reducing the transepidermal water loss throughout the study. Conclusion: Regular use of facial oil serum can help improve skin texture and tone.

Impact of Aerobika® oscillating positive expiratory pressure in improving small airway resistance, lung function, symptoms and exercise capacity in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Aerobika® oscillating positive expiratory pressure (OPEP) device promotes airway clearance in many respiratory diseases. However, studies have yet to focus on its effectiveness in improving small airway resistance via impulse oscillometry (IOS) measurement in COPD subjects. We aim to evaluate the improvement of small airway resistance (via IOS), lung function (spirometry), exercise capacity [via 6-min walking test (6MWT)], symptoms [COPD assessment test (CAT)] and severe exacerbation events among COPD subjects using Aerobika® OPEP. This was a prospective, single-arm interventional study among COPD subjects with small airway disease. Subjects were instructed to use twice daily Aerobika® OPEP (10 min each session); for 24 weeks; as an additional to standard therapy. IOS, spirometry, 6MWT, CAT score and severe exacerbation events were evaluated at baseline, 12 weeks and 24 weeks. Fifty-three subjects completed the study. Aerobika® usage showed improvement of IOS parameters; e.g. measurement of airway resistance at 5 Hz (R5), cmH20/L/s, (12-week p = 0.008, 24-week p < 0.001), R5% predicted (12-week p = 0.007, 24-week p < 0.001) and small airway resistance (R5-R20), cmH20/L/s, (12-week p = 0.021, 24-week p < 0.001). There were improvement of lung function; e.g. FEV1, L (12-week p = 0.018, 24-week p = 0.001), FEV1% predicted (12-week p = 0.025, 24-week p = 0.001), FEF25-75, L (12-week p = 0.023, 24-week p = 0.002), and FEF25-75% predicted (12-week p = 0.024, 24-week p < 0.001). CAT score improved at 12 weeks (p < 0.001) and 24 weeks (p < 0.001). Subjects had improved exercise capacity (6MWT, metres) after 24 weeks (p = 0.016). However, there was no significant difference in severe exacerbation events 24 weeks before and after Aerobika® usage. Aerobika® OPEP demonstrated significant improvement in small airway resistance as early as 12 weeks of usage, with sustained improvement at 24 weeks. Aerobika® OPEP administration had significantly improved lung function, 6MWT, and CAT scores over 24 weeks. There was no difference in severe exacerbation events.

Investigating the Anti-Aging Effects of Caviar Oil on Human Skin.

As the largest organ of the human body, the skin serves as a critical barrier against environmental damage. However, many factors, such as genetics, sun exposure, and lifestyle choices can lead to skin damage creating wrinkles, sagging, and loss of elasticity. The use of skincare products containing natural ingredients has become increasingly popular as a way to combat the signs of aging. Caviar oil is one such ingredient that has gained attention due to its rich composition of fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. The objective of this study was to investigate the potential anti-aging effects of caviar oil and to develop a product, Cavi Balm, which could potentially reduce wrinkles and skin sagging. An in vitro model using the 3T3-L1 cell line was employed to assess the effect of caviar oil on adipocyte differentiation. An ex vivo study using human skin tissue was conducted to investigate the impact of caviar oil on collagen and elastin formation and the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1,2,9 (MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-9). Furthermore, 102 participants were enrolled in five clinical studies to evaluate the anti-aging efficacy of our product, "Cavi Balm", in facial and neck wrinkles, facial and eye area lifting, and various skin parameters, such as skin moisture, skin elasticity, skin density, skin tightening relief, skin clarity, and skin turnover. In vitro, caviar oil enhanced adipocyte differentiation, and increased lipid accumulation inside the cells. The ex vivo analysis revealed that caviar oil reduced the expression levels of MMP-1, MMP-2, and MMP-9, and increased the formation of elastin and collagen I, III. Moreover, in the clinical study, Cavi Balm improved skin parameters after one-time use, with more significant effects observed after four weeks of usage. Caviar oil has a substantial impact on mitigating skin aging and holds potential for application in anti-aging products.

The RonchAP® palatinal device: A conservative approach in treating obstructive sleep apnea syndrome—a randomized, controlled study

PurposeThe aim of the present study was to assess the efficacy of the Ronch®AP palatal device in treating patients with moderate and severe forms of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.MethodsIn a randomized controlled trial 22 patients were examined with the Ronch®AP palatal device after 4 weeks of usage. Their results were compared to a control group of 30 patients who did not receive any treatment during this time. All patients included did not tolerate CPAP therapy. Among other parameters the apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) was measured using nocturnal cardiorespiratory polysomnography. Daytime sleepiness was assessed using Epworth Sleepiness Scale. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index was used to analyze sleep quality.ResultsUsing the Ronch®AP palatal device AHI was reduced from an average of 35.34 ± 14.9/h to 19.18 ± 14.93/h, whereas the control group only showed a minimal mean reduction from 31.32 ± 12.76/h to 29.37 ± 17.11/h. The difference in reduction between the two randomized groups was highly significant (d = − 14.2, 95% CI 5.9–22.6, t = 3.4, df = 49.9, p = 0.001). Epworth Sleepiness Scale score was lowered from 9.18 ± 4.73 to 7.82 ± 4.14 on average and sleep quality improved by − 1.91 ± 2.31. Both changes were also statistically relevant (p < 0.005).ConclusionsThe Ronch®AP device is an effective alternative treatment option for patients suffering from moderate and severe forms of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and not tolerating CPAP therapy.Trial registration number407-16 with approval from the local ethical committee (Ethikkommission der Medizinischen Fakultät der LMU München).

A biosensor based on oriented immobilization of an engineered l-glutamate oxidase on a screen-printed microchip for detection of l-glutamate in fermentation processes

This paper describes an amperometric biosensor utilizing an engineered l-glutamate oxidase for glutamate monitoring in microbial fermentation processes. We designed a general immobilization strategy that utilized a chitin-binding domain (ChBD-tag) as a biotether to further immobilize l-glutamate oxidase (GLOX) in an oriented manner on a screen-printed Prussian blue nanocube microchip (PB/SPC) with the biopolymer chitosan. The improved l-glutamate biosensor exhibited an enhanced sensitivity of 53.4 µA L mmol−1 cm−2 and a linear range from 25 µmol/L to 300 µmol/L with a detection limit of 9 µmol/L, and retained 95 % of its initial activity after two weeks of usage. In addition, the as-prepared biosensor was applied for real-time monitoring of food ingredient l-glutamate concentration during the fermentation process, which was in good agreement with that of high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Above all, the l-glutamate biosensor prepared by this method had high analytical performance, and could fully realize real-time and high-efficiency monitoring in glutamate fermentation.

A new e-Learning Resource to Support Music Education in Romanian Schools

The pandemic has demonstrated the need for e-learning tools to support Romanian music education. The lack of digital resources in the national language adapted to the Romanian music curriculum made it difficult for students to learn using foreign applications with a different music notation system from Romania’s during the online teaching period. In response to this, we created a software tool that supports musical instruction in line with the outcomes expected by the country's school music curricula. This study investigated the effect of the new software on improving learning outcomes and student motivation. The participants were three experimental groups from eight schools. Group A (n = 60 pupils) were required to use the software for six weeks, at least 15 minutes per day, five days a week. This was carried out under teacher supervision in classrooms and under teacher guidance at home. Group B (n = 61 pupils) were asked to use the software once a week for six weeks in their music lessons. Group C (n=10 teachers) lead the application's testing process. Each child was allocated a unique code (to ensure each pupil's anonymity), which enabled the researcher to observe their activity. The average total use per child in Group A was 48 sessions, and for Group B, it was 12 sessions. The results for Group A showed pupils had notably enhanced their learning outcomes. Of the (n=60) pupils, 96% reported feeling 'highly motivated' by the software. The tool's facility for personalised, needs-focused exercises with immediate feedback was identified as particularly helpful. Group B, who used the software occasionally, made slower progress, but 93% reported that the addition of the software was preferable to traditional classroom music education conducted without such individual-focused technology. Out of (n=121) pupils, 94% reported the software was easy to learn and use. Each of the ten teachers who led the testing process reported increased accuracy of the elements practised with the software after six weeks of usage and decided to continue using it. More exercise resources are currently being developed for the software. Now also in English, it is easily translatable into other languages.

Clinical Prospective Assessment of Genotoxic and Cytotoxic Effects of Fluoride Toothpaste and Mouthwash in Buccal Mucosal Cells.

Background: Fluorides are an essential component of oral hygiene products used to prevent dental decay. Therefore, a question arises about the potential harms of joint use of fluoridated toothpaste and mouthwashes regarding the increased amount of fluoride in the oral mucosa. Methods: This prospective, double-blinded parallel randomized clinical trial was conducted using a buccal micronucleus cytome assay (BMCyt assay). Forty-one participants were randomly assigned to the two groups. All participants used the same kinds of toothpaste for 12 weeks, designed explicitly for this study (non-fluoride, 1050 ppm F, and 1450 ppm F each for 4 weeks). Simultaneously, during the 3 months of the research, one group used mouthwash with fluoride (450 ppm) and another without fluoride. The buccal mucosal sampling was taken before using the tested products and after 4, 8, and 12 weeks of their use. Results: The frequency of micronuclei and the majority of other scored endpoints from the BMCyt assay showed no statistically significant differences within and between the studied groups. Comparing two groups, only statistically significant increases in the number of cells with nuclear buds (p = 0.048) and karyorrhexis (p = 0.020) at four weeks of usage were observed in the group that used mouthwash with fluoride. Conclusion: On the basis of the results, it can be concluded that simultaneous application of fluoridated toothpaste and fluoride mouthwash does not lead to cytogenetic damage in buccal mucosal cells.

Preparation of Moisturizing Lotion from Combination Extract of Clitoria ternatea Flower and Dragon Fruit Peels

Background: The skin is the organ that covers the entire human body and serves to protect the body from outside influences, so that the skin needs to be protected. The process of destruction of the skin characterized by the appearance of wrinkles, dried and cracked. Skin damage can occur due to the sun's rays. Antioxidants are needed to prevent, inhibit structural damage of the skin. This study aims to determine the best concentration from a combination of Clitoria ternatea L. flower extract and dragon fruit (Hylocereus Polyrhizus (F.A.C. Weber) Britton &amp; Rose) peel extract in lotion formulation. The research was conducted by making extract preparation and formulate in lotion by differentiating its concentration F1 (5%:5%), F2 (3%:6%), F3 (7%:3.5%). The results: Lotion of combination Clitoria ternatea L flower and dragon fruit peel extract with concentration F3 (7%:3.5%), showed the best effect, because it gives higher moisture increase compared to initial conditions, from to 32.6% become 65.2% after 4 weeks of usage. The conclusion: Combination Clitoria ternatea L. flower and dragon fruit peel extract can be formulated as a moisturizing lotion and with best combination in 7%: 3.5%.&#x0D; Keywords: Lotion, Combination, Extract, Flower Clitoria ternatea , Dragon Fruit Peels

Comparative analysis of biodestructors used in bioremidation at land reclamation contaminated with

The results shown in the article were held within a month apart from the preparatory period. Soil samples which were analyzed were contaminated with certain amount of oil. After that certain amount of biodestructors were put into the samples. Ability of organisms, contacting in these chemicals, to decompose oil was determined by condition and quantity of siderates (barley, rye, clover), and also by oil percentage in analyzed soil samples. Quantitatively oil content in samples before and after biological treatment was determined by infrared spectrometry using “Koncentratometr KN-3” analyzer. Based on the obtained quantitative results of oil content in soil samples before and after exposure to them with biodestructors we may conclude positive dynamics of their effect. Results showed that after only two weeks of microorganisms’ influence the oil content in soil samples decreased by half. It should be noted that the best results after only two weeks of usage were shown by Bak-Verad and DOP-UNI. The positive effect also affected the siderats’ appearance. Condition and number of grown plants correlates satisfactorily with the residual percentage of oil in the soil samples. The best results during one month were shown by Glauk-Oil. The results of the research can find application in bioremediation in the reclamation of lands contaminated with oil in the conditions of the far north and conditions equivalent to it.

EvoTears – LipoNit: Vergleich zweier lipidhaltiger Präparate

Purpose. Rewetting solutions and eye sprays are getting more popular recently and are available in many different compositions. They promise to help against symptoms of dry eyes. This study tries to determine if the eye drops EvoTears, which contains lipids, helps better against symptoms of dry eyes as the liposomal eye spray LipoNit. Material and Methods. Both preparations were tested on a total of 23 subjects (11 female, 12 male, age 33 years ± 13.8 years, 23 – 60 years). In a single-blinded, balanced, rand- omized and prospective cross- over study, according to the ethical principles of the Declaration of Helsinki, the subjective sensation as well as objective findings of dry eye were de- termined and evaluated in each case before dispensing and after a one-week application of the respective preparation. For the subjective determination the OSDI questionnaire was used. Objectively, lipid layer thickness was determined and evaluated using Polaris device (BON), as well as tear meniscus height and noninvasive tear film break-up using Oculus Keratograph. After one week of application of the respective preparations, the subjective and objective findings before and after application were compared. Furthermore, in an additional questionnaire, each subject was able to assign points for the simplicity of application as well as points for the subjective improvement of dry eyes of both preparations. Results. The difference of the findings in both products in between the week of usage were 0 in all four findings (OSDI, NIKBUT, meniscus height, lipid layer thickness). This means that both of the investigated Liquids have more or less the same impact on dry eyes. Further, this study statistically proves that EvoTears significantly reduces the OSDI Score after using (p-value 0,0403). There is a tendency that Evo- Tears also improves the thickness of the lipid layer, although it is almost statistically significant (p-value 0,0708). All the other findings were statistically not significant. Most of the participants felt the handling of LipoNit much easier com- pared to EvoTears. However, EvoTears had a slightly bigger impact on subjective feeling. Conclusion. In this study, EvoTears and LipoNit were found to have similar effects on dry eye. A statistically significant difference existed only in the OSDI questionnaire (decrease OSDI score) in combination with EvoTears. In principle, the results obtained could be attributed to the short applica- tion period of one week, the small number of subjects or a non-compliance. In addition, only participants with moderate dry eyes were examined. Despite all this, the subjective dry eye symptoms decreased with both agents. Keywords Rewetting solution, ophthalmic sprays, dry eyes, EvoTears, LipoNit, OSDI questionnaire

Comparison of Effects of Mouthwash Containing Chlorhexidine and Chlorine Dioxide on Salivary Bacteria-A Randomized Control Study

Aims: The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Chlorhexidine (CHX) and Chlorine dioxide (ClO2) mouthwashes in reducing the microbial load in saliva.&#x0D; Place and Duration of Study: Department of Periodontics, Government Dental College and Hospital, Afzalgunj, Hyderabad, between January and March 2020.&#x0D; Methods and Materials: 60 Patients with gingivitis were included in the study. Ultrasonic scaling was done and saliva samples of the participants were collected and transferred onto blood agar plates. These plates were sent for the microbial count. Later they were given the mouthwash (Chlorhexidine or Chlorine dioxide or Distilled water by random selection) which they used for four weeks. Each group of participants was instructed to rinse&#x0D; &#x0D; 10 ml of 0.2% CHX for one minute twice per day. (Group A)&#x0D; 10 ml of ClO2 (Freshclor) for one minute twice per day. (Group B)&#x0D; 10 ml of Distilled water for one minute twice per day. (Group C)&#x0D; &#x0D; After four weeks of usage of prescribed mouthwashes, the participants were recalled and salivary samples were again collected and sent for the microbial count.&#x0D; Results: The intergroup comparison of CFU between the groups after four weeks showed significant reduction of CFU Groups A and B when compared to Group C. When compared to Group A (CHX), Group B (ClO2) witnessed statistically significant reduction of CFU in with a mean difference of 0.26±0.09 (p&lt;0.001).&#x0D; Conclusion: The present study demonstrated that ClO2 mouth rinse was effective in reducing microbial load after four weeks of usage than CHX.

Accuracy and Reliability of Self-measured Intraocular Pressure in Glaucoma Patients Using the iCare HOME Tonometer.

The iCare HOME tonometer is a useful tool which can be used by patients for fairly accurate and reliable self-measurement of intraocular pressure (IOP). The aim was to compare the accuracy of IOP measurements of trained glaucoma patients using the iCare HOME tonometer before and after a week of self-monitoring at home and study the repeatability of patient measurements done at home. A total of 40 glaucoma patients had IOPs measured using the Goldmann applanation tonometer and the iCare HOME. Patients were trained to use the iCare HOME and measured their IOP twice daily over a loan period of 7 days. Bland-Altman analysis was used to assess agreement between Goldmann applanation tonometer and iCare HOME readings. Intraclass correlation coefficient compared inter-rater reliability of iCare HOME measurements, and test-retest variability for the patient's readings over the 7-day period were analyzed. A 5-point Likert scale questionnaire was used to assess the patient's experience with the device. Up to 32 patients (80%) were able to obtain IOP readings within 3 mm Hg of the glaucoma nurse clinician's readings at the preloan visit, and up to 36 patients (90%) at the postloan visit. Good inter-rater reliability was observed between iCare HOME measurements by the glaucoma nurse clinician and patients. At the postloan visit, inter-rater reliability was good for right eye readings and excellent for left eye readings. No distinct trend in test-retest variability was identified over the 7-day period. 65% of patients agreed the device was easy to use and 89% would recommend the device to other glaucoma patients. Patients trained to use the iCare HOME device can do so with fair accuracy compared with trainers with accuracy improving within 1 week of usage.

ADHEAR in Conductive Hearing Loss: a case study

Abstract Introduction Bone conduction hearing systems can be applied through non-invasive devices, using soft bands that exert pressure on the skin, or they can be surgically implanted (Bone Anchored Hearing Aid - BAHA). However, these bone conduction devices are frequently not well accepted due to the pressure on the head. Therefore, a new non-surgical hearing system was developed not to exert pressure on the skin, the ADHEAR. The bone anchorage in ADHEAR is performed through an adhesive adapter and is indicated for patients with conductive hearing loss and normal inner ear function. Objectives Evaluate the audiological performance with the adhesive bone conduction hearing device (ADHEAR) in a patient with conductive hearing loss. Methodology The study was designed as a prospective single-subject repeated-measure study with the subject serving as his own control. A 29 year old female patient who had a primary surgery due to middle ear cholesteatoma, was adapted with unilateral non-invasive adhesive bone conduction system for the treatment of conductive hearing loss. Air and bone conduction thresholds, word recognition scores (WRS) and speech recognition thresholds (SRT) in quiet and noise were assessed to verify the inclusion criteria of the study. Aided and unaided pure tone audiometry at 0.5, 1, 2 and 4 kHz in free field and speech audiometry in quiet and noise were performed at baseline and after 4 weeks with the ADHEAR. Results The functional gain with the ADHEAR averaged over 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 kHz after 4 weeks of usage of the adhesive hearing system, improved from 55 dB HL to 31dB HL. Speech perception in quiet and noise improved significantly in the aided situation, with SRT in quiet improving from 60 to 35 dB HL, when compared to the unaided condition. Similar results were found in noise. The patient evaluated the ADHEAR system as being useful, and without complaints of skin pressure. There was no adverse skin reaction. Conclusion Hearing performance was significantly better with ADHEAR under all test conditions. Therefore, this transcutaneous hearing system seems to be an excellent alternative for patients who need a hearing solution for conductive hearing loss but for clinical reasons cannot undergo surgery or conventional hearing aids. Furthermore, it preserves skin over the mastoid and reduces the risk of infection. Otherwise it has benefits verified by absence of head pressure and improvement of patient’s quality of life.

The Efficacy and Safety of a Herbal Toothpaste in Reducing Gingivitis: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel Allocation Clinical Trial.

Aim To examine the efficacy and safety of the toothpaste containing Rhizoma Chuanxiong and Rhizoma Imperatae extracts in reducing gingivitis. Method A double-blind clinical trial was conducted, in which 120 volunteers were randomly assigned to the test group (N = 60) or the control group (N = 60). Tetramethylpyrazine, senkyunolide A, ferulic acid, and ligustilide are the main effective components of Rhizoma Chuanxiong and Rhizoma Imperatae contains the main components of cylindrin, carotene, 5-hydroxytryptamine, potassium, and calcium. The control group used placebo toothpaste containing neither Rhizoma Chuanxiong extract nor Rhizoma Imperatae extract. Plaque, gingivitis, and bleeding were assessed at the baseline, prior to the supragingival scaling, and at 4, 8, and 12 weeks. Results During the trial, both test and control groups showed a decreasing trend compared to the baseline. At the end of 12 weeks, with respect to Gingival Index (GI), Bleeding Index (BI), and Bleeding on Probing percentage (BOP%) scores, there were significant differences between test and control groups (GI, P<0.001, BI, P<0.001, and BOP%, P<0.001, resp.). After 4 weeks of usage, there were no statistically significant differences in all of GI, BI, and BOP% scores between the two groups. However, the decrease became statistically significant at next two intervals (GI, P<0.001, BI, P<0.001, and BOP%, P<0.001, resp.) in the efficiency of GI, BI, and BOP% which was 8.04%, 11.02%, and 37.16%, respectively. There were no treatment-related adverse events reported. Conclusion The toothpaste containing Rhizoma Chuanxiong and Rhizoma Imperatae extracts was well tolerated and significantly reduced gingivitis and bleeding after usage for 12 weeks. There was better improvement at molars, and the more serious the baseline status was, the better the efficacy was.

Development of a pressure-measuring device to optimize compression treatment of lymphedema and evaluation of change in garment pressure with simulated wear and tear

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The Influence of iPads on Course Performance and Student Perceptions of Learning in Human Anatomy

The influence of iPad compared to computer-based active and collaborative learning activities on academic performance, along with student attitudes toward technology, engagement, and perceived learning were examined between two one-semester undergraduate-level Human Anatomy classes. Student attitudes and perceived learning were assessed using pre- and post-semester surveys between two simultaneous classes: iPad-integrated (n = 24) and no-iPad (n = 21). No-iPad users reported higher attainment of course objectives (human anatomy factual knowledge, principles and theories, and application of material) than iPad users. IPad users also reported lower levels of course engagement following fifteen weeks of usage whereas no-iPad users reported higher levels of engagement. Both groups showed similar learning gains based on test scores, and final grades. This article explores potential explanations for discrepancies with some previous research by highlighting the importance of consistent instructional methods, regardless of media, in undergraduate education.

The Influence of iPads on Course Performance and Student Perceptions of Learning in Human Anatomy

The influence of iPad compared to computer-based active and collaborative learning activities on academic performance, along with student attitudes toward technology, engagement, and perceived learning were examined between two one-semester undergraduate-level Human Anatomy classes. Student attitudes and perceived learning were assessed using pre- and post-semester surveys between two simultaneous classes: iPad-integrated (n = 24) and no-iPad (n = 21). No-iPad users reported higher attainment of course objectives (human anatomy factual knowledge, principles and theories, and application of material) than iPad users. IPad users also reported lower levels of course engagement following fifteen weeks of usage whereas no-iPad users reported higher levels of engagement. Both groups showed similar learning gains based on test scores, and final grades. This article explores potential explanations for discrepancies with some previous research by highlighting the importance of consistent instructional methods, regardless of media, in undergraduate education.

The Effects of Probiotics on the Salivary Streptococcus Mutans and Lactobacilli Levels among Preschool Children: A Clinical Trial

Background: Prevention of dental caries plays a vital role in dental public health practice. Streptococcus mutans is considered to be the chief pathogen in caries development. One of caries preventive methods is probiotics which can interfere with bacterial colonization, compete with oral microorganisms.Aim: To evaluate the effects of probiotics in yogurts on the salivary Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacilli colonies count among preschool children aged (3 – 6 years).Materials and Methods: A controlled clinical trial was conducted on (350) children who were divided into two groups, control and study group. The control group instructed to ingest one cup of regular yogurt and the study group ingest yogurt with probiotics for two weeks. Salivary Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacilli levels were counted at the baseline and after one week and two weeks of usage. One way ANOVA test, unpaired t test and Tukey post hoc test were used to compare between the groupsResults: A statistically significant reduction in salivary Streptococcus mutans colonies count were seen with in the study group compared with the control group. Conclusion: Probiotics showed maximum decrease in the Streptococcus mutans colonies count after short period of usage.