Unveiling the Obsession: Exercise Addiction among Female Amateur Runners in Delhi-NCR and the Power of Unwavering Commitment

Aim and Objective

This study was intended for a possible relationship that might exist between exercise addiction and unbending commitment among female amateur runners. Exercise addiction (EA) can be characterized as an obsession with physical activity.

Materials and Methods

The "purposive sampling method" was utilized to collect data. The inventories taken for this purpose were "The Exercise Addiction Inventory" and "Commitment Running Scale." The questionnaire was filled out by 100 participants aged between 18 and 50 years from the capital of India and its border area (Delhi and NCR).

Results and Conclusion

It was found that 39% of female long-distance runners were exercise addicts, and 72% were highly committed to running, supporting a probable reason for EA.

Tailoring Chiral Discotic Liquid Crystals: Mesophase Engineering through Alternative Approaches and Chain Lengths

Hydrogen (H)-bonding is crucial in constructing superstructures in chemical (such as chiral discotic liquid crystals (DLCs)) as well as in biological systems due to its specific and directional nature. In this context, we achieved the successful synthesis of two branches of heptazine-based H-bonded complexes using distinct strategies. Hpz*-Es-Cn , we incorporated chiral alkyl tails (Hpz-chiral) onto the central C3 symmetric heptazine core, connected to achiral benzoic acid derivatives (Es-Cn acid) through H-bonding. In Hpz-Es-Cn -acid*, we used an achiral heptazine derivative (Hpz-Es-Cn ) linked to a chiral acid via H-bonding. On the other hand, based on the DSC results, we observed that Hpz*-Es-Cn complexes exhibited three distinct phases, whereas Hpz-Es-Cn -acid* complexes displayed only a single mesophase. In polarized optical microscopy (POM) observations, all the complexes displayed birefringence at room temperature, with the color of the POM images changing as the temperature varied. X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies at lower temperatures confirmed that Hpz*-Es-C8 exhibited the columnar rectangular (Colr ) phase, while Hpz*-Es-C10/12 exhibited the columnar oblique (Colob ) phase. However, all the H-bonded complexes exhibited the columnar hexagonal (Colh ) phase at higher temperatures. The chiroptical spectra recorded by Circular dichroism (CD) highlight the specific observations in the columnar phase of two complexes, Hpz*-Es-C10 and Hpz*-Es-C12 . This behavior has potential applications in various fields, including sensors, displays, and responsive materials.

Light Modulated Reversible "On-Off" Transformation of Arylazoheteroarene Based Discotics in Nematic Organization

Three benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxamide (BTA) core-based molecular systems appended with phenylazo-3,5-dimethylisoxazole photoswitches at the peripheral position through variable-length alkoxy chains have been designed and synthesized. The supramolecular interactions of the mesogens provided discotic nematic liquid crystalline assembly as confirmed by polarized optical microscopy (POM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies. Spectroscopic studies confirmed the reversible photoswitching and excellent thermal stability of the photoswitched states in solution phase and thin film. Also, atomic force microscopic (AFM) and POM investigations demonstrated the morphological changes in the self-assembly induced by the photoirradiation as monitored by the changes in the height profiles and optical appearance of the textures, respectively. Remarkably, the liquid crystalline discotic molecules showed reversible "on and off states" controlled by light at ambient temperature.

Comparison of Palonosetron with Combination of Palonosetron and Dexamethasone in the Prevention of Post Operative Nausea and Vomiting in Patients Undergoing Middle Ear Surgery: A Prospective Randomized Trial

We compared the use of palonosetron with combination of palonosetron and dexamethasone in prevention of PONV in patients undergoing middle ear surgery under general anaesthesia. Prospective, randomized study was conducted including 90 adult patients who received either palonosetron (0.075 mg) (Group P) or combination of palonosetron (0.075 mg) and dexamethasone (8 mg) (Group PD). The primary outcome was incidence of nausea, vomiting and complete response. Secondary parameters were time to receive first rescue antiemetic, total dose required, patient's satisfaction, postoperative pain scores and total dose of rescue analgesic. The incidence of nausea was 15.5% and 8.8% (p = 0.522) and vomiting was 6.7% and 2.2% (p = 0.610) in group P and PD, respectively Complete response (CR) was observed in 84.4% patients in group P and 91% patients in group PD (p = 0.522). Combination of palonosetron and dexamethasone is not superior to use of palonosetron alone for PONV prevention.

Menstrual hygiene management and its determinants among adolescent girls in low-income urban areas of Delhi, India: a community-based study

Objectives

Menstrual hygiene management (MHM) in developing countries is linked to human rights, social justice, and the education and empowerment of young girls. The objective of this study was to assess menstrual hygiene practices and their determinants among adolescent girls, including school dropouts, and the effects of pad distribution programs in urban resettlement areas of Delhi, India.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2019 to February 2020 in urban resettlement colonies and 2 villages of Delhi among 1,130 adolescent girls aged 10 to 19 years, who were interviewed face to face.

Results

In total, 954 participants (84.4%) used only disposable sanitary pads, 150 (13.3%) used both sanitary pads and cloths, and 26 (2.3%) used only cloths (n=1,130). Most school-going girls utilized the scheme for pad distribution, but only two-thirds of the girls who were out of school utilized the scheme. In the adjusted analysis, girls with lower educational status, those who had dropped out of school, and those from the Muslim religious community were more likely to use cloths for MHM.

Conclusion

More than 4 out of 5 adolescent girls in Delhi in low-income neighborhoods preferred sanitary pads for MHM. The government free pad scheme reached near-universal utilization among school-going girls (97%), but the subsidized pad scheme for girls who did not attend school was insufficiently utilized (75%).

Bevel Position and Its Effect on Success of Intubation Through Intubating Laryngeal Mask Airway

Background: The bevel position of tracheal tube (TT) affects the success rate while using intubating laryngeal mask airway (ILMA). The present study compared the success of intubation on the basis of anterior and posterior position of the bevel of conventional polyvinylchloride (PVC) tracheal tube through an ILMA. Methods: Two hundred adult ASA I or II patients, having Mallampati class 1 or 2 airway, and undergoing elective surgery under general anesthesia were included in the study. Patients were randomized in two groups based on anterior or posterior bevel position while intubating. If proper tracheal position was established within 3 insertion attempts tracheal intubation was considered successful. Results: Successful tracheal intubation was achieved in 191/200 patients (95.5%). There was higher first attempt success rate in bevel anterior group (88.6% vs 65.5%, relative risk ratio 1.418, 95% C.I. 1.18-16.8; p= 0.00006). There was similar overall success rate between the bevel anterior and posterior groups (97.0% vs 94.0%, relative risk ratio 1.03, 95% C.I. 0.97-1.10; p=0.5). Conclusion: Tracheal intubation was successful in 95.5% of patients through an ILMA using PVC tracheal tube. Success rate of intubation was similar in both the groups. Bevel anterior group had higher success on first attempt intubation.

Bevel Position and Its Effect on Success of Intubation Through Intubating Laryngeal Mask Airway

Background: The bevel position of tracheal tube (TT) affects the success rate while using intubating laryngeal mask airway (ILMA). The present study compared the success of intubation on the basis of anterior and posterior position of the bevel of conventional polyvinylchloride (PVC) tracheal tube through an ILMA. Methods: Two hundred adult ASA I or II patients, having Mallampati class 1 or 2 airway, and undergoing elective surgery under general anesthesia were included in the study. Patients were randomized in two groups based on anterior or posterior bevel position while intubating. If proper tracheal position was established within 3 insertion attempts tracheal intubation was considered successful. Results: Successful tracheal intubation was achieved in 191/200 patients (95.5%). There was higher first attempt success rate in bevel anterior group (88.6% vs 65.5%, relative risk ratio 1.418, 95% C.I. 1.18-16.8; p= 0.00006). There was similar overall success rate between the bevel anterior and posterior groups (97.0% vs 94.0%, relative risk ratio 1.03, 95% C.I. 0.97-1.10; p=0.5). Conclusion: Tracheal intubation was successful in 95.5% of patients through an ILMA using PVC tracheal tube. Success rate of intubation was similar in both the groups. Bevel anterior group had higher success on first attempt intubation.

Luminescent columnar discotics as highly efficient emitters in pure deep-blue OLEDs with an external quantum efficiency of 4.7

Development of materials that serve as efficient blue emitters in solution-processable OLEDs is challenging. In this study, we report three derivatives of C₃-symmetric 1,3,5-tris(thien-2-yl)benzene-based highly luminescent room temperature columnar discotic liquid crystals (DLCs) suitable as solid-state emitters in OLED devices. When employed in solution-processed OLEDs, one of the derivatives having the highest photoluminescence quantum yield exhibited a maximum EQE of 4.7% and CIE chromaticity of (0.16, 0.05) corresponding to the ultra deep-blue emission. The finding is sufficiently significant in the field of DLC-based deep blue emitters.

Deciphering Internal and External π-Conjugation in C3 -Symmetric Multiple Azobenzene Connected Systems in Self-Assembly

Two tripodal C₃ -symmetric photoswitchable molecular systems T1 and T2 are reported that have extended conjugation at external and internal positions using an acryl group. The influence of the extended π-bonds in their absorption properties, thermal relaxation of the photoisomers and their propensities in forming supramolecular self-assemblies have been explored through spectroscopy, and microscopic studies. In particular, the investigations on the self-assembly have been carried out using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), polarized optical microscopy (POM), X-ray diffraction studies (XRD) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Remarkably, the position of the acryl group influences the behaviour of the two target molecules in supramolecular assembly, and also in the formation of photoresponsive organic hydrogels or microcrystals.

Correction: Luminescent columnar discotics as highly efficient emitters in pure deep-blue OLEDs with an external quantum efficiency of 4.7

Correction for 'Luminescent columnar discotics as highly efficient emitters in pure deep-blue OLEDs with an external quantum efficiency of 4.7%' by Joydip De et al., Soft Matter, 2022, DOI: 10.1039/d1sm01558c.

Effect of diffusion of anaesthetic gases on fibre-optic view change of laryngeal mask airway and post-operative laryngo-pharyngeal morbidity in children - A randomised controlled trial

Background and Aims:

The diffusion of nitrous oxide (N₂O) into the air-filled cuff of the classic laryngeal mask airway (LMA) may lead to an increase in cuff pressure (CP) and displacement of LMA affecting its performance. This study was conducted to evaluate the change in optimal position of LMA by fibre-optic bronchoscope, the changes in cuff pressure and oropharyngeal leak pressure (OLP), and post-operative laryngo-pharyngeal morbidity during N₂O–oxygen (O₂) anaesthesia in children.

Methods:

After ethics committee approval and written informed consent, 84 children, aged 2 to 8 years undergoing lower abdominal surgery using LMA were included. Anaesthesia was induced with sevoflurane and maintained with either 33% O₂ in air (Group 1) or with 33% O₂ in 67% N₂O (Group 2) along with sevoflurane. The position of LMA using fibre-optic bronchoscope, CP and OLP were recorded at 30, 60 and 90 minutes and at the end of surgery. The incidence of post-operative sore throat, hoarseness of voice and dysphagia was assessed for 24 hours.

Results:

A mild (Grade 1) change in fibre-optic position of LMA was observed in 6 out of 42 children maintained with N₂O–O₂ anaesthesia. The cuff pressure was higher than baseline in group 2 at all three time points with the maximum at 90 minutes (93.23 ± 14.86 cm H₂O vs. 39.78 ± 7.75 cm H₂O; P < 0.05). The OLP was comparable between the groups during the initial 60 minutes and then increased in group 2. The incidence of post-operative sore throat was significantly higher in group 2 (P = 0.008).

Conclusion:

The diffusion of anaesthetic gases into the air-filled cuff does not change the fibre-optic position of the LMA significantly but increases the cuff pressure and incidence of post-operative laryngo-pharyngeal complications in children.

Erratum to "Bleach enhancement of mixed wood pulp by mixture of thermo-alkali-stable xylanase and mannanase derived through co-culturing of Alkalophilic Bacillus sp. NG-27 and Bacillus nealsonii PN-11"[Heliyon 7 (1) (2021) e05673]

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e05673.].

Perceptions of Frontline Workers, Female Health Workers, and School Teachers in Menstrual Hygiene Promotion among Adolescent Girls of Delhi, India: A Qualitative Study

Background:

Government schemes for the promotion of Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) among adolescent girls in India are underpinned by crucial implementation efforts from the frontline health workers, community health workers, and school teachers.

Aim:

The aim of the study is to identify the perspectives on menstrual health and hygiene management with regard to government schemes for sanitary pad distribution to adolescent girls among the frontline workers and the government school teachers located in urban resettlement colonies in Delhi.

Methods:

In-depth interviews were conducted with 30 accredited social health activisits, 30 Anganwadi Workers (AWW), and 30 auxiliary nurse midwives (ANMs) and five focus group discussions among 28 government school teachers from the middle, high, and secondary standard.

Results:

Most participants recognized the phenomenon of menstruation-related problems in adolescent girls and were aware of some of the common sociocultural, religious, and hygiene-related menstrual restrictions prevalent in their communities. All the participants believed that the pad distribution scheme was highly beneficial. However, in spite of inclusion of menstrual health promotion in the school curriculum, teachers often lacked self-efficacy in discussing challenges and health concerns related to MHM with their students.

Conclusions:

Despite their potential as community resources for adolescent girls, FHWs, ANMs, and school teachers often fail to impart crucial menstrual hygiene information and skills-building needed toward achieving effective, safe, and optimal MHM.

Development and Validation of a Menstruation-Related Activity Restriction Questionnaire among Adolescent Girls in Urban Resettlement Colonies of Delhi

Introduction:

Menstruation, a physiological phenomenon, till date is associated with myths, taboos, and malpractices. These interfere with the emotional, physical, and mental health of adolescent girls. This study attempts to draft a validated questionnaire to measure menstruation-related activity restriction.

Objective:

The objective was to study activities restricted during menstruation among adolescent girls residing in urban resettlement colonies of Delhi and to develop and validate a questionnaire for menstruation-related activity restriction.

Materials and Methods:

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among adolescent girls residing in urban resettlement colonies of Delhi during 2019. A multistage random sampling technique was used to select 1100 girls across four districts of Delhi. A 15-item questionnaire was developed by an expert committee and validated with principal component analysis (PCA).

Results:

In total, 1100 adolescent girls were included in the study whose mean age was 15.8 (±2.1) years. School/college/work was missed due to menstruation in 60% of the adolescent girls, 66% were not comfortable during menstruation, and 92% were restricted from entering religious places. In exploratory factor analysis using PCA, 6 principal components were identified which had eigenvalues more than 1.

Conclusion:

Religious restrictions during menstruation (94%) were highly prevalent among adolescent girls, followed by restriction of routine activity (69%) and work/academically related activity (60%). Construct validity has identified a six-factor structure for the menstruation-related activity restriction questionnaire. This was identified as a valid and internally consistent tool to assess activities restricted during menstruation among Indian adolescent girls.

Bleach enhancement of mixed wood pulp by mixture of thermo-alkali-stable xylanase and mannanase derived through co-culturing of Alkalophilic Bacillus sp. NG-27 and Bacillus nealsonii PN-11

The Application of a combination of enzymes is the best alternative to reduce the use of chemicals in the paper industry. Bacillus sp. NG-27 and Bacillus nealsonii PN-11 are known to produce thermoalkali stable xylanse (X) and mannanase (M) respectively having potential for pulp biobleaching. The Present study, reports the production of a mixture of X + M by co-culturing of strains in SSF and standardizing its application for pulp biobleaching. Production of enzymes by co-cultivation in SSF was optimized by statistical methods. Substantial increase in the yield of enzymes; 3.61 fold of xylanase and 37.71 fold of mannanase was achieved. Application of enzyme cocktail for pulp biobleaching resulted in a 45.64% reduction of kappa number with 55 IU g^-1odp of enzyme dose (xylanase:mannanase; 3:1) at pH 8.0 in 1h at 65 °C along with significant increase in brightness (11%) and whiteness (75%). The Same quality of paper as made up from chemical treated pulp can be made from enzyme-treated pulp with 30% less use of chlorine. Structural analysis of enzyme-treated pulp showed dissolution of hemicellulose as indicated by pores, cracks and increased roughness all over the surface. Cocktail of X + M produced economically in a single fermentation having all the requisite characteristics for pulp biobleaching is a highly suitable candidate for application in the pulp and paper industry.

AIE-active mechanoluminescent discotic liquid crystals for applications in OLEDs and bio-imaging

A multifunctional molecular design of fluorescent discotic liquid crystal (DLC) consisting of a tetraphenylethylene core is reported, which is found to serve as an excellent solid-state emitter in OLED devices with EQE of 4.4% and tunable mechanochromism. X-ray diffraction studies unveiled that change in supramolecular self-assembly is the physical origin of mechanochromism. The luminescent DLC molecule has been shown to act as a highly selective probe for labelling acidic cellular compartments (such as lysosomes) in bio-imaging using HeLa cells.

Luminescent Conductive Columnar π-Gelators for Fe(II) Sensing and Bio-Imaging Applications

The high demand and scarcity of luminescent, photoconductive, and transparent gels necessitate its finding as they are potential components in photonic devices such as solar cell concentrators where optical losses via scattering and reabsorption require to be minimized. In this direction, we have reported highly transparent, blue luminescent as well as photoconductive gels exhibiting the hole mobility of 10^-3 cm²/V s at ambient temperature as investigated by the time-of-flight technique. The π-driven self-standing supergels were formed using triazole-modified phenylene-vinylene derivatives as gelators in a nonpolar solvent. Different microscopic studies revealed its entangled network of interwoven fibrilar self-assembly and anisotropic order in the gel state. Supramolecular assembly of xerogels, studied by small- and wide-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS/WAXS) suggesting their local columnar hexagonal (Col_h) superstructure, is beneficial for conducting gels. Rheological measurements direct the stiffness and robustness of the organogels. In addition, the gelators were developed as a sensing platform for the ultrasensitive detection of Fe(II) ions at ppb level. ¹H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) titrimetric studies revealed that the interaction of the H-atom of triazole units with Fe(II) is responsible for quenching of blue fluorescence. Also, one of the gelators was successfully applied in bio-imaging using the pollen grains of the Hibiscus rosa-sinensis plant.

Comparison of fasting gastric volume using ultrasound in diabetic and non-diabetic patients in elective surgery: An observational study

Background and Aims:

Gastroparesis despite standard fasting in diabetic patients may increase the aspiration risk. This study aimed to compare fasting gastric volume (GV) of diabetic with non-diabetic patients scheduled for elective surgery using USG.

Methods:

This prospective observational study included 53 diabetic and 50 non-diabetic patients aged >18 years, American Society of Anesthesiologists' physical status I-III having similar fasting intervals. Before induction, using standard gastric scanning protocol, qualitative and quantitative assessments of gastric antrum in supine and right lateral decubitus (RLD) positions were performed with a curved array probe. USG grade, cross-sectional area (CSA) of the antrum and GV were calculated. The gastric antrum was classified as Grade 0, 1 or 2, signifying empty antrum, fluid in RLD position only and antral fluid in both supine and RLD positions, respectively.

Results:

In supine position, CC and AP diameters were 1.96 ± 0.41 cm and 0.9 ± 0.57 cm in control group and 2.28 ± 0.50 cm and 1.39 ± 0.44 cm in diabetic group, respectively. In RLD, CC was 2.28 ± 0.57 cm and AP was 1.24 ± 0.42 cm in control group as compared to CC 2.54 ± 0.56 cm and AP 1.82 ± 0.56 cm in diabetic group. The CSA of 2.57 ± 1.19 cm² and 3.73 ± 1.61 cm² in diabetic were significantly higher (P = 0.001) than 1.41 ± 0.55 cm² and 2.30 ± 1.18 cm² of control, in supine and RLD positions, respectively. GV was 4.20 ± 22.26 ml in control group and 9.15 ± 25.70 ml in diabetic group.

Conclusion:

Diabetic patients have higher gastric antral cross-sectional area and gastric volumes as observed by gastric ultrasound than the non-diabetic patients.

High hole mobility in room temperature discotic liquid crystalline tetrathienoanthracenes

Tetrathienoanthracene (TTA), a new discotic core fragment, is explored that shows a remarkably high hole mobility (μh) of 4.22 cm2 V-1 s-1 at room temperature when used in space-charge limited current (SCLC) devices. Strong co-facial interactions (π-π, SS) among TTA cores along with a high tendency of the derivative to align homeotropically in the columnar mesophase over a large area in SCLC cells contributed to the top-class charge carrier mobility.

Parents' perception and factors affecting compliance with preoperative fasting instructions in children undergoing day care surgery: A prospective observational study

Background and Aims:

Fasting guidelines have been recommended in the paediatric population to minimise the risk of pulmonary aspiration. The present study was planned to assess the compliance with fasting instructions in children undergoing ambulatory surgery and identify the factors affecting it.

Methods:

A total of 1,050 ASA I and II children aged 1–12 years, scheduled for day care surgery were enrolled. Parents of these children were given a questionnaire with specific questions like fasting instructions, source of instructions, actual fasting times and reasons for not following instructions.

Results:

Only 90 (8.5%) parents followed fasting instructions as advised. Of the 960 non-compliant patients, 31 (2.9) inadequately fasted while 929 (88.4%) fasted more than advised. While only 5.2% mentioned aspiration, 25% cited vomiting as the reason for fasting. Younger parents (OR = 0.853, 95% CI-0.796 to 0.915), fasting instructions in writing (OR = 10.808, 95% CI-1.459 to 80.059) and separate instruction for solids and liquids (OR = 6.016, 95% CI- 3.663 to 9.883) were found to affect compliance with fasting instructions.

Conclusion:

To avoid risks of prolonged or inadequate fasting in day care surgical patients, good coordination between the anaesthetist and the surgeon and an updated knowledge about the preoperative fasting instructions among the health-care providers is essential. Separate written fasting instructions for liquids and solids should be given to the parents according to their order in the operating list to ensure better compliance with fasting instructions.

Comparison of Two Supraglottic Airway Devices: I-gel Airway and ProSeal Laryngeal Mask Airway Following Digital Insertion in Nonparalyzed Anesthetized Patients

Aims:

The study is aimed to compare the efficacy of I-gel and ProSeal laryngeal mask airway (PLMA) in nonparalysed anesthetized individuals following manufacturer-recommended digital insertion.

Materials and Methods:

In this prospective randomized observational study, 40 American Society of Anesthesiologists I and II patients, aged 18–65 years scheduled for elective surgical procedures were allocated either to PLMA group (Group P, n = 20) or the I-gel group (Group I, n = 20). Following digital insertion of PLMA or I-gel, the following parameters were compared: insertion time, ease of insertion, number of attempts, failed insertion, airway reaction during insertion, oropharyngeal leak (OPL) pressure, and gastric insufflation on auscultation. Fiberoptic view of both the channels of the airway devices and ease of insertion of 12 F Ryle's tube through gastric drain channel were graded. Postoperative complications were also noted.

Results:

First attempt and overall insertion success were similar (PLMA, 85% and 100%; I-gel 80% and 100%, respectively). Mean (standard deviation) insertion times were similar (PLMA, 27.40 [11.51] s; I-gel 25.45 [9.03] s). Mean OPL pressure was 3.5 cm H₂O higher with PLMA (P < 0.012). The passage of Ryle's tube was easier through I-gel than PLMA. Grade I glottic view (full view of the vocal cords) was visible in 17 (85%) patients who were managed with I-gel whereas only 9 (45%) patients had Grade I view in the PLMA group.

Conclusion:

The time required for digital insertion of PLMA and I-gel in nonparalyzed anesthetized patients is similar but PLMA forms a better oropharyngeal seal. I-gel is better positioned over the laryngeal framework and esophagus. I-gel allows easier passage of Ryle's tube through its drain channel than PLMA. The incidence and severity of postoperative sore throat and hoarseness was higher with PLMA.

Magnitude of domestic violence and its socio-demographic correlates among pregnant women in Delhi

Context:

Domestic violence is violation of basic human rights, and poses a threat to the physical, mental, and social health aspects of women and her children. The causation of domestic violence is precipitated by many risk factors.

Aims:

Aim was to estimate the magnitude of domestic violence overall, and its sub-types, among pregnant women. The study also aimed to find the associated socio-demographic determinants of domestic violence among the subjects.

Settings and Design:

The study was designed as a cross-sectional study to estimate the prevalence of domestic violence and to find socio-demographic correlates in its causation. A total of 1500 apparently healthy pregnant women, with gestation up to 20 weeks were interviewed.

Methods and Materials:

A pre-tested semi-structured interview schedule was used to collect data on socio-demographic variables and details of domestic violence, after explaining the purpose of study to the subjects and obtaining informed consent.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Data was entered in Ms-Excel and IBM SPSS Version 25 was used for statistical analysis.

Results:

The findings revealed overall prevalence of domestic violence to be 29.7%, with emotional and verbal type of violence being most common type. Caste, religion, literacy status of study subjects, and occupational status of spouses of study subjects were reported as significant correlates affecting the causation of domestic violence among the subjects.

Conclusions:

The findings highlight the burden and thus, stress for the need for effective involvement of all sectors in the elimination of domestic violence against women as a public health issue and develop zero-tolerance towards it.

Evaluation of Arterial to End-tidal Carbon Dioxide Pressure Differences during Laparoscopic Renal Surgery in the Lateral Decubitus Position

Background:

End-tidal carbon dioxide (PEtCO₂) is a noninvasive reliable technique to measure arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) in the body under general anesthesia. However, gradient between PaCO₂ and PEtCO₂ (P[a-Et] CO₂) is influenced by many factors.

Aims:

In the present study, we evaluated the changes in P (a-Et) CO₂ for laparoscopic donor nephrectomy in lateral decubitus position (LDP).

Settings and Design:

This was an observational, double-blinded, tertiary care center-based study.

Methods:

Thirty-one American Society of Anesthesiologists Class I and Class II patients of either sex undergoing laparoscopic donor nephrectomy in LDP under general anesthesia were included. An arterial cannula was inserted, PaCO₂ was measured at eight predesignated time intervals, and PEtCO₂ was also noted at the corresponding time period.

Statistical Analysis:

Data were analyzed using a two-way analysis of variance for repeated measurements using one dependent variable and one within-subject factor (time). Quantitative data were presented as mean ± standard deviation or median and interquartile range, as appropriate.

Results:

The mean P (a-Et) CO₂ gradient was 5.67 ± 1.36 mmHg 10 min after induction of anesthesia in the supine position (T1a). Ten minutes after LDP, P (a-Et) CO₂ gradient was 7.38 ± 1.45 mmHg (T1b) and was higher than T1a. The P (a-Et) CO₂ values 10 min after release of pneumoperitoneum and 10 min after making the patient supine were significantly higher than the T1a value. The highest value of P (a-Et) CO₂ gradient was at 30 min after creation of pneumoperitoneum (T30), i.e., 9.99 ± 1.70 mmHg. Pearson's correlation coefficient showed that the degree of correlation varied considerably during surgery due to interindividual variability (R² T1a vs. T60 was 0.61 vs. 0.17).

Conclusions:

PEtCO₂ does not reliably predict PaCO₂ in healthy patients scheduled for laparoscopic renal surgery in LDP.

Therapeutics of premature hair graying: A long journey ahead

Premature graying of hair has major psychosocial and socioeconomic repercussion, as it is considered as a sign of hastily progressing old age, ill health and often leads to loss of self-esteem. Hair is said to gray prematurely when it happens before the age of 20 years in Caucasians, 25 years in Asians, and 30 years in Africans. The hair color chiefly depends on melanin pigment, and fabrication of this pigment takes place in melanosomes through the process of melanogenesis. This complex biochemical pathway (melanogenesis) is further dependent on tyrosinase which acts as fuel.The normal human scalp is subjected to various factors categorized as intrinsic and extrinsic leading to graying of hair. Intrinsic factors comprise of variants responsible for changes at genetic level while extrinsic factors include air pollution, ultraviolet radiation, smoking, and nutrition. It has been proposed that direct or indirect effect of all these factors results in the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), thus leading to further damage. Though research has expanded in last few years in terms of microscopic, biochemical (hormonal, enzymatic), and molecular changes happening within hair follicle/shaft, still the exact mechanism leading to premature graying of hair is not well understood. Probable solutions toward this quandary are diet, herbal remedies, and temporary hair colorants. Ironically, the latter one being the most common has various side effects such as allergic reactions, inflammation, and hair loss. The aim of this paper was to review the manifestation and probable future interventions in preventing premature hair graying.

Radiofrequency Thermoablation of the Gasserian Ganglion Versus the Peripheral Branches of the Trigeminal Nerve for Treatment of Trigeminal Neuralgia: A Randomized, Control Trial

BACKGROUND

Trigeminal neuralgia is the most painful condition of facial pain leading to impairment of routine activities. Although radiofrequency thermoablation (RFT) of the Gasserian ganglion is widely used for the treatment of idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia in patients having ineffective pain relief with medical therapy, the incidence of complications like hypoesthesia, neuroparalytic keratitis, and masticatory muscles weakness is high. Recent case reports have shown the effectiveness of RFT of the peripheral branches of the trigeminal nerve for relief of refractory chronic facial pain conditions including trigeminal neuralgia.

OBJECTIVES

This study was conducted to compare the efficacy and safety of RFT of the peripheral branches of the trigeminal nerve with RFT of the Gasserian ganglion for the management of idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective, randomized, observer-blinded, clinical trial.

SETTING

Tertiary care hospital and medical education and research institute.

METHODS

A total of 40 adult patients of idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia were randomly allocated into 2 groups. The control group received RFT of the Gasserian ganglion while the study group received RFT of the peripheral branches of trigeminal nerve. The procedures were performed in the operation room under all aseptic precautions with fluoroscopic guidance. Post-procedure, the patients were assessed for loss of sensation along the nerve distribution and the adequacy of pain relief on the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS). The patients were followed up for 3 month to assess the quality of pain relief by the NRS and the Barrow Neurological Institute (BNI) pain intensity scale. Improvement in pain was considered excellent if patients had complete pain relief without any medication, good if there was significant reduction in pain (> 50%) with or without medication, and poor if there was less than 50% reduction in pain with medications. Patients were also assessed for numbness and any other side effects. Patients' satisfaction with the procedure was recorded.

RESULTS

Nineteen patients in the control group and 18 in study group had effective pain relief of up to 3 months. Their pain scores were comparable at all time intervals, though the number of patients receiving supplementary medications was more in study group at 2 months (P = 0.015). The patients showed overall satisfaction score of 8.5 (8-9) and 8 (7-9) in control and study groups respectively. The average procedure duration was 30 (30-38) minutes in the control group and 28 (25-40) minutes in the study group. Most of the patients in both groups had mild numbness after the procedure. One patient in the control group had lower eyelid swelling and another had mild weakness of the masseter muscle, which resolved few days later. No major complication was reported in the study group except for 1 patient who reported local ecchymosis.

LIMITATIONS

The main limitation of the study is that the patients and the investigator performing the procedure were not blinded, though the person who assessed the patient during follow-up was blinded to the group assignment. Another limitation is that we could not follow up with the patients after 3 months due to time constraints.

CONCLUSION

We found that radiofrequency thermoablation of the peripheral branches of the trigeminal nerve is an effective and safe procedure for the management of idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia.

KEY WORDS

Idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia, radiofrequency thermoablation, Gasserian ganglion, peripheral nerve branches, pain, trigeminal nerve.

Room-Temperature Columnar Liquid Crystals as Efficient Pure Deep-Blue Emitters in Organic Light-Emitting Diodes with an External Quantum Efficiency of 4.0

A novel design of aggregation-induced emission (AIE) active columnar (Col) luminomesogens is reported, and they are demonstrated to act as highly efficient deep-blue emitters in organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). All derivatives exhibit Col liquid crystalline (LC) behavior at room temperature over a wide temperature range and desirable alignment properties, which is very important in using them as materials for organic electronic devices. These new AIE active luminomesogens were found to act as highly efficient emitters in OLEDs and unveiled a maximum external quantum efficiency of 4.0% for the first time in Col LCs with Commission International de l'E'clairage coordinates of (0.17, 0.07), which closely matches the National Television System Committee (NTSC) standard, corresponding to pure deep blue color. The detailed supramolecular assembly of the compounds has been characterized by modeling in the mesophase derived from small- and wide-angle X-ray scattering results.

Effect of Scalp Block on Postoperative Pain Relief in Craniotomy Patients

The efficacy of scalp nerve block using 0.5% bupivacaine with adrenaline for postoperative pain relief in craniotomy patients was evaluated in 40 ASA I or II adult patients undergoing supratentorial craniotomy. A standard general anaesthesia technique was followed. Patients were randomly divided into two groups. Group B received 0.5% bupivacaine with 1:400,000 adrenaline and group S received normal saline with 1:400,000 adrenaline, both after skin closure. Postoperative pain was assessed at 30 seconds and 1, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 12 hours using a numerical rating scale. Diclofenac IM was administered as rescue analgesia if patients reported a numerical rating scale of 40 or more. Tramadol TV was administered as second rescue analgesia. Sixty per cent of patients in group S experienced moderate to severe pain (numerical rating scale of 40 or more) at some time during the first 12 postoperative hours in comparison to 25% patients in group B. Median pain scores were significantly lower in group B for up to 6 hours. Significantly more patients were pain free up to four hours in group B. Median duration for the requirement of first dose of diclofenac was longer in group B compared to group S (360 min vs 30 min, P<0.01). The number of doses of diclofenac (5 vs 19) was significantly lower in group B compared to group S (P<0.01). Tramadol was required by six patients in group S only. Scalp nerve block using 0.5% bupivacaine with 1:400,000 adrenaline decreases the incidence and severity of postoperative pain in patients undergoing supratentorial craniotomy.

Reversibly photoswitchable alkoxy azobenzenes connected benzenetricarboxamide discotic liquid crystals with perpetual long range columnar assembly

Reversibly photoswitchable discotic liquid crystals (DLCs) with no change in columnar assembly.

Hydrogen-bond mediated columnar liquid crystalline assemblies of C3-symmetric heptazine derivatives at ambient temperature

A new class of hydrogen (H) bonded fluorescent liquid crystals (FLCs) based on a newly discovered s-heptazine fluorophore discotic component have been synthesized. The tendency of the s-heptazine core to form H-bonded LCs has been explored for the first time. Interestingly, the pure heptazine derivatives (non-mesomorphic) on complexation with tri-alkoxy benzoic acids exhibit enantiotropic columnar mesomorphism over a wide range of temperatures including room temperature. This indicates the strength of the resulting H-bonded complexes. The H-bonded supramolecular complexes were studied through FT-IR, temperature dependent FT-IR and NMR studies and H-D exchange studies, and their thermal behaviour was deduced through polarized optical microscopy (POM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies. Because of the inherently fluorescent pure heptazine derivative, the resulting complexes exhibit fluorescent behaviour in the solution state as well as in the solid state.

Minimum Alveolar Concentration of Desflurane for Maintaining BIS Below 50 in Children and Effect of Caudal Analgesia on it

Context:

Neuraxial techniques have sedative properties secondary to decreased inputs from sensory and motor afferents. We hypothesized that caudal analgesia decreases the requirement of desflurane as measured by bispectral index (BIS).

Aims:

This study aims to determine the minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) of desflurane for maintaining BIS below 50 (MACBIS₅₀) in children undergoing infraumbilical surgeries with laryngeal mask airway (LMA) and study the effect of caudal analgesia on the same.

Settings and Design:

This is prospective and observational study.

Subjects and Methods:

Thirty-nine American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status Classes I and II children in between 1 and 8 years of age undergoing elective infraumbilical surgery under general anesthesia were allocated randomly into two groups (Group C and Group D) after induction with sevoflurane and LMA insertion. In Group C, caudal block was performed with 0.75 mL/kg of 0.25% bupivacaine and BIS values were recorded after 10 min for 1 min at 10 s intervals. In Group D, BIS was recorded for desflurane for 1 min at 10 s intervals followed by a caudal block with the same dose.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Dixon up-down method with a step size of 0.5%, and probit analysis were used for analysis.

Results:

A total of 39 patients were enrolled. MAC of desflurane for maintaining MACBIS₅₀ was 5.57 (95% confidence interval [CI] 5.22–5.95) in Group D and 4.31 (95% CI 3.12–5.08) in Group C. The use of caudal anesthesia lowered the MAC of desflurane for maintaining MACBIS₅₀ in children by 22.36% (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

The use of caudal analgesia significantly reduced MAC of desflurane for maintaining MACBIS₅₀ in children undergoing infraumbilical surgeries using LMA.

Pulsed Radiofrequency Ablation for the Treatment of Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia Secondary to Oropharyngeal Carcinoma

BACKGROUND

The management of glossopharyngeal neuralgia due to oropharyngeal carcinoma is particularly difficult because of rich innervations of the area, erosive nature of neoplasm and dynamic pain evoked by the functional movements like swallowing and chewing. Few case reports have shown the efficacy of pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) treatment in primary and secondary glossopharyngeal neuralgia in non-cancer patients. However, the efficacy of PRF ablation of the glossopharyngeal nerve in oral cancer patients is not known.

OBJECTIVES

This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of PRF ablation of the glossopharyngeal nerve for the management of oropharyngeal cancer pain involving the base of the tongue, tonsillar fossa, and oropharynx.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective interventional clinical trial.

SETTING

Tertiary care hospital and medical education and research institute.

METHODS

A total of 25 adult patients suffering from oropharyngeal carcinoma, complaining of severe pain in the area mainly supplied by glossopharyngeal nerve, were included. The patients underwent fluoroscopy-guided PRF ablation of the glossopharyngeal nerve of the affected site 3 times at 42°C temperature for 120 seconds with 22-gauge, 10 cm long, 5 mm active tip radiofrequency needle. They were followed up for one year for pain relief, nausea-vomiting and sleep disturbances. The treatment was considered effective if there was 50% reduction in pain score at 2 weeks.

RESULTS

There was significant reduction in the overall pain score including site specific pain, odynophagia and ear pain after radiofrequency ablation (P < 0.0001) in all the patients. This was associated with decreased opioid consumption (P < 0.001), lesser nausea/vomiting, and improved sleep. The treatment was effective in 23 out of 25 patients (92%) for more than 3 months. No major complication was observed in any patient. The average duration of effective pain relief was 5 to 9 months.

LIMITATIONS

Patients having bilateral glossopharyngeal neuralgia or an advanced stage of oral cancer with large lymph nodes at the angle of mandible were not included. This study was a single-center observational clinical trial and further multi-center, randomized, controlled trails are needed to obtain higher level of evidence.

CONCLUSION

Our results showed that PRF ablation can be used effectively and safely for the treatment of glossopharyngeal neuralgia secondary to oropharyngeal carcinoma.

KEY WORDS

Glossopharyngeal neuralgia, ear pain, odynophagia, oral cancer pain, pulsed radiofrequency ablation, side effects.

Comparison of the ProSeal laryngeal mask airway with the I-Gel™ in the different head-and-neck positions in anaesthetised paralysed children: A randomised controlled trial

Background and Aims:

Head and neck movements alter the shape of the pharynx, resulting in changes in the oropharyngeal leaking pressures and ventilation with supragottic airway devices. We compared the effect of the different head-and-neck positions on the oropharyngeal leak pressures and ventilation with the I-Gel™ and ProSeal™ laryngeal mask airway (PLMA) in anaesthetised paralysed children.

Methods:

A total of 70 children were randomly assigned to receive PLMA (n = 35) or I-Gel™ (n = 35) for airway management. Oropharyngeal leak pressure in maximum flexion, maximum extension and the neutral position was taken as the primary outcome. Peak inspiratory pressures (PIPs), expired tidal volume, ventilation score and fibreoptic grading were also assessed.

Results:

No significant difference was noted in oropharyngeal leak pressures of PLMA and I-Gel™ during neutral (P = 0.34), flexion (P = 0.46) or extension (P = 0.18). PIPs mean (standard deviation [SD]) were significantly higher (17.7 [4.03] vs. 14.6 [2.4] cm H₂O, P = 0.002) and expired tidal volume mean [SD] was significantly lower (5.5 [1.6] vs. 6.9 [2] ml/kg, P = 0.0017) with I-Gel™ compared to PLMA. Fibreoptic grading and ventilation score were comparable in both the groups in all the three head-and-neck positions.

Conclusion:

PLMA and I-Gel™, both recorded similar oropharyngeal leaking pressures in all the three head-and-neck positions. However, higher peak pressures and lower expired tidal volume in maximum flexion of the neck while ventilating with I-Gel may warrant caution and future evaluation.

Phase Behavior of a New Class of Anthraquinone-Based Discotic Liquid Crystals

Five novel columnar liquid crystalline compounds (4.1-4.5) consisting of a central anthraquinone core carrying four alkoxy chains (R = n-C₆H₁₃, n-C₈H₁₇, n-C₁₀H₂₁, n-C₁₂H₂₅, and 3,7-dimethyl octyl) with two diagonally opposite 1-ethynyl-4-pentylbenzene units were synthesized, and their phase transitions were investigated between changes in the molecular structure and their self-assembly into the columnar mesophases. Small and wide-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS/WAXS) studies were performed to deduce the exact nature of the mesophases, and their corresponding electron density maps were derived from the intensities of the peaks observed in the diffraction patterns. A comparison of compounds with different alkoxy chains indicated that the soft crystal columnar rectangular (Cr_colrec) phase was stable at lower temperature for the shortest peripheral alkoxy chain (4.1; R = n-C₆H₁₃) and was found to exhibit the columnar hexagonal (Col_h) phase and then the discotic nematic (N_D) phase with increasing temperature. In contrast, increasing the peripheral chain length to n-C₈H₁₇ or the branched one (4.2 and 4.5) stabilized the Col_h phase at lower temperature and showed the N_D phase at higher temperature. Further increase in chain length (4.3 and 4.4; n-C₁₀H₂₁, n-C₁₂H₂₅) demonstrated the formation of the N_D phase. Conductivity measurement in the Col_h mesophase was found to be almost 10 times higher in magnitude than the corresponding Cr_colrec phase. The HOMO-LUMO band gap of all the compounds was found to be in the range from 2.79 to 2.82 eV, which is quite less and comparable with the optical energy band gap.

Heptazine: an Electron-Deficient Fluorescent Core for Discotic Liquid Crystals

Herein, room-temperature discotic liquid crystals based on heptazine, an electron deficient central core, are reported for the first time. Mesomorphic behaviors of the materials are also investigated. Supramolecular assembly of the mesophase derivatives were confirmed by X-ray scattering experiments. Heptazine-based solid thin films are strong blue light emitters, whereas in the solution state, they are weakly emissive or non-emissive. The band gap energy is found to be low in this class of compounds. Formation of room-temperature mesophases, low band-gap behavior, and strong blue-light emission in the solid state are promising attributes for optoelectronic applications of the materials.

Effects of intraoperative liberal fluid therapy on postoperative nausea and vomiting in children-A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is one of the most distressing complications following surgery. Supplemental perioperative fluid therapy might be an effective strategy to reduce PONV in children.

OBJECTIVES

The study was conducted to evaluate the effects of intraoperative liberal fluid therapy with crystalloids on PONV in children.

METHODS

In this randomized trial, a total of 150 children of 3-7 years undergoing lower abdominal and penile surgery under general anesthesia were randomly assigned into two groups. "Restricted group" received 10 mL kg^-1 h^-1 and "Liberal group" received 30 mL kg^-1 h^-1 infusion of Ringer's lactate solution intraoperatively. All patients received a caudal block and intravenous paracetamol for analgesia. No opioids and muscle relaxants were used. All episodes of nausea-vomiting and the requirement of rescue antiemetic were assessed during 24 hours postoperatively.

RESULTS

The incidence of PONV was significantly less in the liberal group patients as compared to the restricted group; 33 (45.8%) patients in the restricted group had vomiting as compared to 20 (27.4%) patients in the liberal group (RR 0.59, 95% CI: 0.38-0.93, P=.021). The adjusted odds ratio of PONV for the liberal group vs restricted group was 2.24 (95% CI: 1.12-4.48, P=.022). The incidence of fluid intake during the first 6 postoperative hours was significantly higher in the restricted group patients; 60 (83%) children in the restricted group complained of thirst as compared to 12 (17%) children in the liberal group (RR 0.19, 95% CI: 0.18-0.33, P=.0001). The parents of the liberal group were more satisfied as compared to the restricted group (mean difference -0.9, 95% CI: -1.8, -0.1, P=.04). None of the children had any complication attributed to the liberal fluid therapy.

CONCLUSION

Liberal intraoperative fluid therapy was found to be effective in reducing PONV in children undergoing lower abdominal surgery.

Hyperchloremic Metabolic Acidosis Following Total Gut Irrigation with Normal Saline in Pediatric Patients: A Rare Occurrence

Use of 0.9% sodium chloride for total gut irrigation (TGI) through nasogastric route is an effective method of bowel preparation in children undergoing colorectal surgeries. TGI with normal saline (NS) can result in nausea, vomiting, abdominal distension, and mild electrolyte imbalance; however, hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis has not been documented. We report two cases of hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis in children posted for colorectal surgery following TGI with NS who were successfully managed.