The effect of script reform on levels of orthographic knowledge: Evidence from alphasyllabary Malayalam scripts.

This study explores the idea of the two levels of orthographic knowledge, i.e. lexical and sublexical; in particular, how these levels are affected in the case of the Indian language Malayalam that went through a script reform in 1971. Through reading and writings tasks, we compare the performance of elderly participants who gained literacy in the traditional script (with complex ligatures), with younger participants who gained literacy in the reformed script (with simpler glyphs). Both the groups read text faster in reformed script indicating script simplification was beneficial. While writing, the elderly participants largely employed the traditional script and younger ones used the reformed script. The study provides proof from non-European alphabet that orthographic knowledge indeed has two independent but related levels. Although a change in script affects both the levels, sublexical one seems more resistant to change, possibly due to less opportunities to update it.

Effect of Cuff Pressures on Postoperative Sore Throat in Gynecologic Laparoscopic Surgery: An Observational Study.

CONTEXT: Postoperative sore throat (POST) is a very common complaint following tracheal intubation. Although it resolves spontaneously, efforts must be taken to reduce it. AIMS: This study aims to compare the effect of cuff inflation using manometer versus conventional technique on the incidence of POST. Secondary objectives were to assess the incidence postoperative hoarseness and cough. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: A total of 120 patients were included in this prospective observational comparative study. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: After approval from the hospital ethics committee, consenting American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status Class I and II patients, scheduled for gynecologic laparoscopic surgery under general anesthesia, were included. They were randomly allocated by closed envelope technique to either Group A where the cuff pressure was adjusted to 25 cmH2O using a manometer or Group B where cuff inflation was guided clinically. Patients were monitored for sore throat, hoarseness of voice, and cough postoperatively. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: To calculate the incidence of sore throat, hoarseness, and cough, descriptive statistics were applied. For checking association of sore throat and cuff pressure, Chi-square test and for comparing numerical values independent sample t-test were applied. RESULTS: The incidence of POST was significantly less in Group A than in B (P < 0.001) up to 24 h. Incidence of hoarseness was less in Group A and incidence of cough was higher in Group B, but these differences were not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: Cuff inflation guided by manometer significantly reduces the incidence of POST.