Brain Training Games Enhance Cognitive Function in Healthy Subjects.

BACKGROUND Brain training games (BTG) are believed to play a major role in improving cognitive functions. The current study evaluated if BTG showed positive impact on attention and memory functions compared with baseline visit in healthy subjects. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study was carried out from October 2015 until April 2016 in the Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University and in King Khalid University Hospital (KKUH), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. We enrolled 51 normal healthy subjects to use a computerized cognitive training game (Lumosity) for exercises that target a range of cognitive functions, including attention, processing speed, visual memory, and executive functions for about 15 min per day, at least 7 days per week, for 3 weeks. The control (n=21) group did not perform the training. Both groups took the CANTAB test before and 3 weeks after training for various cognitive functions (flexibility, memory, attention, speed, and problem solving). Serum samples were used to study the brain-derived growth factor (BDNF) and apolipoprotein (Apo) E (APOE) levels. RESULTS A significant improvement in Lumosity performance index was observed in the active group compared to the control group by the end of training (p-value 0.001). After the training, a statistically significant difference in most of the CANTAB measures, such as attention-switching task (AST), mean correct latency, AST switching cost, AST mean correct latency (congruent), AST mean correct latency (incongruent), AST mean correct latency (blocks 3 and 5) [non-switching blocks], AST mean correct latency (block 7) [switching block], and MOT mean correct latency (all P=0.000). However, in the control group, significant improvements were not observed. A positive correlation between pattern recognition memory (PRM) and APOE was found and people who had higher ApoE levels had faster response. CONCLUSIONS An improvement in different cognitive domains was noted, including attention and motor speed. However, this study warrants further research to determine the long-term effect on other cognitive functions and in different groups (e.g., elderly vs. adults).

A two-stage full-arch ridge expansion technique: review of the literature and clinical guidelines.

Ridge expansion techniques have been acknowledged to offer several advantages in the correction of ridge deformities. The expanded defect heals in a similar manner to an extraction socket. In selected cases patients can wear their dentures after surgery. Secondary surgical sites are not a prerequisite, and simultaneous implant placement can be achieved during ridge expansion. The limitation of this technique lies in its inability to create bone vertically. Therefore, it is not indicated for the correction of vertical defects. The application of the split ridge expansion technique has been reported in the literature as it pertains to partially edentulous deficient ridges. The purpose of this article was to present the application of the split ridge expansion technique in the fully edentulous maxilla and discuss the distinction between the immediate or one-stage approach and the delayed or two-stage approach. Histologic results are discussed. Two case reports demonstrate the results that can be obtained with this technique.