This paper investigated the possibility of using clay characterization as a major tool to predict its suitability for bleaching of vegetable oil, namely, palm oil. The clay sample collected from Ibeshe deposit was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results of the XRD showed that the clay is composed of dioctahedral kaolinite and dickite, silica, ilmenite, and merlinite. The compositional analysis using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) showed that the Na 2 O : CaO ratio is 0.22, a value less than one and indicative of the absence of bentonite which presence, just like montmorillonite, confers bleaching activity to clays. Furthermore, the SiO 2 : Al 2 O 3 ratio of 1.12 (greater than one) is suggestive of a clay suitable not for bleaching but for zeolite development. Actual laboratory tests for bleaching performance evaluation confirmed the prediction above that the clay indeed has poor bleaching action as shown by percent colour reduction. The colour reduction for natural clay was 9.1%. This value only increased to 27.3% after 3M HCl activation, a value still very low for effective bleaching.

Introduction: Mini-implant assisted rapid palatal expansion (MARPE) is gradually becoming the treatment of choice to correct the transverse dimension, exceeding the limitations of conventional RME devices. One of the key factors for orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning apart from a stable occlusion is a balanced and aesthetic facial profile that is influenced by maxillary expansion. Similarly, it also affects the anatomy and physiology of the nasal cavity since nasal airflow is a continuous stimulus for lowering of the palate and for lateral maxillary growth. Hence, there is a need to conduct further research on the effects of MARPE on the facial soft tissues as well as the airway, enabling the orthodontist to reach a more accurate diagnosis as well as aid in the treatment planning process. Aims and Objectives:This retrospective three-dimensional study was planned and designed with the objective of measuring facial soft tissue and airway changes in individuals treated with mini-implant assisted rapid palatal expansion (MARPE) using CBCT. Materials and Methods:This study was carried out on CBCT records of 10 patients in the age group of 18-30 years. These records were then imported into Romexis software and calibrated. The facial soft tissue and airway parameters were measured for each individual at selected landmarks and compared before and after expansion.Result: Statistically significant differences in the soft tissue parameters were observed, which included an increased H-angle, increased soft tissue subnasal to H-line and a decreased soft palate surface area after MARPE.

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Background: The purpose of this study was to assess and determine the perception of facial profile attractiveness by orthodontists and general public using Silhouette method. In addition, the orthodontists and the general public (laypeople) compared the facial profile components that they considered desirable for males and females Methodology: 30 Subjects in the age group of 18-25 years who met all the inclusion and exclusion criteria's were selected from a local Dakshina Kannada Population. After examining each subject for his/her dental occlusion and facial profiles, profile photographs of the subjects were taken. These photographs were shown to Orthodontists and laypeople for their approval, and a subject with the most pleasing profile was selected. After the subject was selected, a lateral cephalogram was taken and various angular and linear measurements were recorded. Using the average values recorded, an androgynous facial Silhouette was constructed. These facial Silhouettes (30) were evaluated by 50 Orthodontists and 50 laymen from local population. Result: Perception differences were noted between males and females or among Orthodontists and laypeople. No statistically significant difference (P > 0.05) was reported in all series of profiles selection for most preferred and least preferred profile among Orthodontists and laypersons and between males and female profiles. Conclusion: This study showed the perception of well balanced and imbalanced faces. In some of the variables, there was a clear contrast in preference of profiles for males and females by the Orthodontists and laypeople, while in some variables it was not. A universal standard of facial aesthetic is not applicable to diverse populations.

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