Midpalatal suture morphology and bone density evaluation after orthodontic expansion: a cone-bean computed tomography study in correlation with aesthetic parameters.

Maxillary expansion is one of the earliest methods of obtaining space used in the field of orthodontics. Maturing craniofacial sutures along with the increase in bone density and rigidity are main causes of high resistance of the maxilla to transversal expansion forces applied to the midpalatal suture through orthodontic appliances. Fifty-three patients, with a mean age of 16.

Effects of pentoxifylline on inflammatory markers and blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Introduction: Pentoxifylline is a xanthine derivative with potential cardiovascular benefits.

Aim: To evaluate the impact of pentoxifylline on blood pressure (BP) and plasma TNF-α, C-reactive protein (CRP) and IL-6 through a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Methods: The protocol was registered (PROSPERO: CRD42016035988).

A PRISMA-compliant systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of statin therapy on plasma lipid concentrations in HIV-infected patients.

Statin therapy may lower plasma lipid concentrations, but the evidence in HIV-infected patients is still unclear. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the impact of statin therapy on plasma lipid concentrations through a systematic review of the literature and meta-analysis of available randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The literature search included PUBMED, SCOPUS, Web of Science and Google Scholar up to October 30, 2015.

Does vitamin D supplementation alter plasma adipokines concentrations? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

We aimed to elucidate the role of vitamin D supplementation on adipokines through a systematic review and a meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials (RCTs). The search included PUBMED, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar through July 1st, 2015. Finally we identified 9 RCTs and 484 participants.