yeah im still giving it a go and will likely update my comment, im sure i will get more used to the art style.
1) use it before. Edit: not really a major difference other than a scenes and maybe a heart.
2)It will give +1 heart to whoever you choose an item too (I believe). Edit: don't think there is major differences other than a heart.
This could be different for you if you haven't gotten the maxium hearts possible for everyone yet.
I'm glad you believe they improved. I will quickly check the maximum hearts for you, maxing out judie most for when you get to the entrance of the train station :D
Edit: as soon as you sit down on the train, you should be at around, (maximizing all points for Judie so it may fluctuate 2 hearts roughly)
Laura - 17
Judie - 20
Carla - 13
Rebecca - 10