Effects of incorporating elliptical trainer exercise during rehabilitation on physical function and self-reported outcomes after total hip arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial.

[Purpose] To investigate the effects of incorporating elliptical trainer exercise in early rehabilitation after total hip arthroplasty on physical function and self-reported outcomes. [Participants and Methods] Participants with independent gait prior to total hip arthroplasty underwent conventional postoperative physiotherapy and were divided into two groups. The intervention group additionally underwent elliptical trainer exercise, while the control group underwent a walking program. The main outcomes were low back and hip region pain, lower limb muscle strength, single-leg stance time, Timed Up & Go Test results, 10 m walking test results, hip disability and osteoarthritis outcome score, and modified fall efficacy scale score. These outcomes were evaluated preoperatively, at discharge, and at 1 and 3 months postoperatively. [Results] Fifty participants (including 40 females; age, 68.3 ± 10.8 years) participated in this study. Physical function evaluations showed a significant improvement in hip region pain during walking at discharge. Knee extensor strength, single-leg stance time, stride length, and walking speed were significantly greater in the intervention group at discharge and at 1 and 3 months postoperatively. The modified fall efficacy scale score significantly improved in the intervention group 1 month postoperatively. [Conclusion] Elliptical trainer exercise and conventional physiotherapy in the early postoperative period contribute to improved physical function and walking ability and improvement in the fear of falling.

Determining a preventive strategy for ankle sprain injury through a questionnaire survey of coaches of junior high school basketball teams.

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to determine a preventive strategy for ankle sprain injury through a questionnaire survey of coaches of junior high school basketball teams. [Participants and Methods] The questionnaire comprised questions concerning coaches' characteristics, prevention-related content, and collaboration with medical staff. We distributed the questionnaire to 108 coaches, of which 48 (41.7%) responded. [Results] The results revealed that none of the participant coaches had ever collaborated with medical staff. [Conclusion] Additional effort from medical staff is needed to hold seminars and contact coaches of junior high school teams in order to conduct an injury prevention program.

Factors affecting early knee-flexion range of motion after total knee arthroplasty.

[Purpose] To investigate the factors affecting the knee-flexion range of motion in the early period after total knee arthroplasty. [Participants and Methods] Ninety-nine patients who had undergone total knee arthroplasty at our hospital between 2016 and 2019 were allocated into two groups based on the presence of a 110° knee-flexion range of motion at 14 days post-surgery. From medical records, we extracted data for the participants' basic attributes and preoperative/postoperative physical function (knee-flexion range of motion, Timed Up & Go Test results, resting/walking pain according to a numerical rating scale, and knee-extension muscle strength). Postoperative physical function was measured 14 days post-surgery. [Results] Preoperative knee-flexion range of motion, preoperative femorotibial angle, postoperative knee-extensor strength, and postoperative Timed Up & Go Test value differed significantly as factors related to achieving a 110° knee-flexion range of motion. Through further statistical analyses, we selected the preoperative knee-flexion range of motion, preoperative femorotibial angle, preoperative Timed Up & Go Test result, and postoperative knee-extension strength as factors affecting the knee-flexion range of motion at 14 days post-surgery. [Conclusion] Preoperative knee-flexion range of motion, preoperative femorotibial angle, preoperative Timed Up & Go Test result, and postoperative knee-extension strength influence knee-flexion range of motion at 14 days after total knee arthroplasty, and our findings indicate the effectiveness of active physiotherapy interventions.

Inter-rater reliability between two examiners with different professional roles in the evaluation of fat infiltration in the lumbar paraspinal muscles using magnetic resonance imaging.

[Purpose] To clarify the inter-rater reliability of the evaluation criteria for paraspinal muscle fat infiltration on magnetic resonance images between two examiners with different professional roles in interdisciplinary physical therapy teams. [Participants and Methods] In this retrospective study, we reviewed the clinical data of 225 patients with degenerative lumbar diseases who underwent posterior lumbar surgery at our hospital. A physical therapist and a spinal surgeon visually quantified fat infiltration of the multifidus muscles at the level of L4/5 on the preoperative magnetic resonance images of the patients using Kjaer's criteria (Grade 0: 0-10%, Grade 1: 10-50%, and Grade 2: >50%). We used the kappa coefficient to assess inter-rater reliability. [Results] The participants included 142 males and 83 females (mean age, 64.7 years; range, 21-89 years). The number of patients with grades 0/1/2 were 50/160/15, respectively, for examiner 1; and 59/155/11, respectively, for examiner 2. The kappa coefficient was 0.69, indicating a substantial agreement. [Conclusion] Our study, which is the first to assess the inter-rater reliability of Kjaer's criteria between examiners with different medical occupations, revealed that these criteria could be a reliable tool for evaluating fat infiltration in the multifidus muscles and sharing information between interdisciplinary physical therapy teams.

Effects of Nordic Hamstring Exercise on Hamstring Injuries in High School Soccer Players: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

We evaluated a range of physical characteristics related to hamstring injuries, as well as the Nordic Hamstring Exercise compliance rate, and whether this influenced the rate hamstring injury. Subjects comprised 259 male soccer players from seven high schools randomly clustered into two groups, a Nordic Hamstring Exercise group and a control group. Training and match time were logged, as well as details of hamstring injury, and subsequent time lost to hamstring injury recorded over a period of 27 weeks. The Nordic Hamstring Exercise compliance rate, injury rate per 10000 playing hours and time-lost-to-sport-injury rate were calculated. The relative risk and hamstring injury severity were also calculated. The hamstring injury rate was 1.04/10 000 h in the control group and 0.88/10 000 h in the intervention group. The relative risk for hamstring injury was 1.14. The time-lost to injury rate was 1116.3/10 000 h in the control group and 113.7/10 000 h in the intervention group; with relative risk 9.81. The Nordic Hamstring Exercise in high school soccer players significantly reduced hamstring injury severity compared to a control intervention. Our results indicate that the time-lost to injury rate should be taken into account when analyzing the severity of hamstring injury.

Major patterns of plantar flexion resistive torque during the gait cycle in healthy young adults wearing ankle foot orthoses with a plantar flexion stop: a pilot study.

[Purpose] The Gait Judge System measures the plantar flexion resistive torque acting on the angle of the ankle joint, as well as the ankle joint itself, of the ankle-foot orthosis using a 1,000 Hz sampling frequency. This pilot study aimed to determine the characteristics of plantar flexion resistive torque acting on the double Klenzak ankle joint of the ankle-foot orthoses worn by healthy individuals. [Participants and Methods] Participants were eight healthy young adults (3 male, 5 female; mean age, 26.8 years old; mean height, 165 cm.; mean body weight, 56.3 kg). Plantar flexion resistive torques and angles of the ankle joint in gait cycles were measured with the Gait Judge System. Speed of gait was calculated using a ruler attached on the floor and the Gait Judge System video. We classified waveforms according to the existence of second peaks in the gait cycle. The correlations between parameters related to the plantar flexion resistive torque and the speed of gait were evaluated using Pearson's simple correlation analysis. [Results] The plantar flexion resistive torque showed two peaks: the first peak was at the loading response, measured at 17.4 Nm, and the second peak was at the pre-swing phase, measured at 10.9 Nm. However, the second peak was absent in three of the participants. The normalized second peak and the second peak/first peak ratio had a strong, positive correlation with the speed of gait. [Conclusion] The Gait Judge System revealed typical waveforms according to the parameters set in this study.

Association of tricuspid regurgitation within normal range on the development of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in patients with uncomplicated hypertension.

AIM: Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) with the maximum velocity >2.8m/s has been newly integrated into the diagnostic criteria for left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction. Although the maximum velocity of TR within the normal range (TR < 2.8m/s) is frequently detected in hypertensive patients and is associated with enlarged left atrial (LA) volumes, the influence of TR < 2.8m/s on LV diastolic dysfunction remains unknown in uncomplicated hypertension. METHODS: Echocardiography was performed to assess the mitral annular velocity (e'), E/e', LV mass, and LA phasic volumes and emptying fractions (total, passive, and active) in 100 patients with uncomplicated hypertension with TR within the normal range and in 77 of those without measurable TR. Patients were defined as having normal, inclusive, or dysfunction of LV diastolic function, according to how many parameters met the cut-off levels (maximum LA volume index >34ml/mm2, e'<7 cm/s, and E/e'>15). Pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) was estimated by the formula; PASP =4 (maximum velocity of TR)2 + 5 mmHg. RESULTS: The maximum velocity of TR or PASP saw a positive correlation, and LA total or passive emptying fractions saw an inverse correlation with LV diastolic dysfunction in hypertensive patients with TR < 2.8. In contrast, pulse pressure and LV mass saw positive correlation in hypertensive patients without TR. A stepwise ordinal logistic regression analysis indicated that PASP and LA passive emptying fractions were associated with LV diastolic dysfunction in hypertensive patient with TR < 2.8m/s. CONCLUSION: The presence of TR may be related to the development of LV diastolic dysfunction in hypertensive patients with TR <2.8m/s.

Effects of cross-training on motor function and length of stay after total hip arthroplasty: A randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: There is no consensus about which training methods will give better early outcomes after total hip arthroplasty (THA). OBJECTIVE: To investigate the short-term effects of cross trainer exercise on physical function and walking ability following THA. METHODS: Fifty patients who underwent THA were randomly allocated into two groups. The intervention program was started 3 days after surgery. The main physical function results were pain, hip range of motion, knee extensor strength, single-leg stance time, and walking performance test. In addition, the number of days of requiring to walk and the length of hospital stay were recorded. RESULTS: In the comparison between groups at discharge, the patients in the cross trainer group had significantly less hip pain while walking, improvement in knee extensor strength, increased single-leg stance time, as well as increased walking speed and stride length at discharge. The number of days required to walk and length of stay were also significantly lower in the intervention group. CONCLUSIONS: Conclusions: Cross trainer exercise commencing 3 days postoperatively improves physical function and walking ability after THA.

Risk Factor Analysis for Fat Infiltration in the Lumbar Paraspinal Muscles in Patients With Lumbar Degenerative Diseases.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to investigate factors related to fat infiltration in patients with lumbar degenerative diseases (lumbar disc herniation and/or spinal stenosis), examining a wide range of potential risk variables. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We studied consecutive adult patients who underwent posterior lumbar spinal surgery for degenerative diseases at our hospital between July 2013 and June 2017. Preoperative magnetic resonance imaging was used to evaluate the presence or absence of fat infiltration at the level of the L4-5 lumbar paraspinal muscles using Kjaer's evaluation method. Patients without fat infiltration (0%-10%) were rated as grade 0, grade 1 for moderate fat infiltration (10%-50%), and grade 2 for severe fat infiltration (>50%). Patients were then divided into two groups: Group A (without fat infiltration, grade 0) and Group B (with fat infiltration, grade 1 or 2). Detailed patient clinical data were collected and analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 205 consecutive patients were enrolled; 54 (26.3%) patients were assigned to Group A and 151 (73.7%) to Group B. Logistic regression analysis revealed two independent risk factors for fat infiltration of the lumbar paraspinal muscles: female sex and older age (P < .001). DISCUSSION: Fat infiltration of the lumbar paraspinal muscles is reported to be associated with the development of pain and dysfunction of the lumbar region and postoperative complications of spinal instrumented fusion surgery. To the best of our knowledge, no previous studies have identified female sex and older age as independent risk factors for fat infiltration in the lumbar paraspinal muscles using multivariate analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Female sex and older age were independent risk factors for fat infiltration in the lumbar paraspinal muscles. The results of the current study may provide useful information for the study of preventive measures for fat infiltration.

Effects of functional movement screen training in high-school baseball players: A randomized controlled clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: In recent years, the functional movement screen (FMS) and FMS training have attracted attention as a means of preventing injury, but no studies have examined the effect of such training in high-school baseball players. The aim of this study was to clarify the effect of FMS training on FMS score, physical function and baseball performance in high-school baseball players. METHODS: Subjects in this randomized controlled clinical trial were high-school male baseball players assigned to either an FMS training group (intervention group) or a control group. The intervention group performed FMS training 4 times per week for 12 weeks. FMS ability, physical function, and baseball performance were measured prior to the intervention, 8, 12, and 24 weeks after the intervention in the subjects' school environment. RESULTS: A total of 71 baseball players aged 15 to 17 years were recruited and assigned to either an intervention group (n = 37) or control group (n = 34). There was no significant difference in the characteristics of participants between the 2 groups. Most FMS scores improved to 12 weeks after continued training. In the intervention group compared with the control group, deep squat, hurdle step, inline lunge, active straight leg raise, trunk stability push-up and rotary stability FMS score, total FMS score and eyes closed single leg stance time significantly increased after 8 weeks of training. While hurdle step, inline lunge, active straight leg raise, trunk stability push-up, total FMS score, and eyes closed single leg stance time significantly increased, pitching ball speed significantly decreased at the end of the 12 week training period. Eyes closed single leg stance time and feeling of fatigue significantly improved 12 weeks after training. The number of subjects who scored less than 14 for the total FMS score in the intervention group compared with control group were significantly less after 8 and 12 weeks of FMS training. CONCLUSION: FMS training for 8 weeks contributes to improving FMS scores for high-school baseball players, but FMS scores go down if FMS training is not continued. TRIAL REGISTRATION: University Hospital Medical Information Network Center, Tokyo, Japan: UMIN000027553. Registered on May 30, 2017.

Computer three-dimensional reconstruction of the atrioventricular node.

Because of its complexity, the atrioventricular node (AVN), remains 1 of the least understood regions of the heart. The aim of the study was to construct a detailed anatomic model of the AVN and relate it to AVN function. The electric activity of a rabbit AVN preparation was imaged using voltage-dependent dye. The preparation was then fixed and sectioned. Sixty-five sections at 60- to 340-microm intervals were stained for histology and immunolabeled for neurofilament (marker of nodal tissue) and connexin43 (gap junction protein). This revealed multiple structures within and around the AVN, including transitional tissue, inferior nodal extension, penetrating bundle, His bundle, atrial and ventricular muscle, central fibrous body, tendon of Todaro, and valves. A 3D anatomically detailed mathematical model (approximately 13 million element array) of the AVN and surrounding atrium and ventricle, incorporating all cell types, was constructed. Comparison of the model with electric activity recorded in experiments suggests that the inferior nodal extension forms the slow pathway, whereas the transitional tissue forms the fast pathway into the AVN. In addition, it suggests the pacemaker activity of the atrioventricular junction originates in the inferior nodal extension. Computer simulation of the propagation of the action potential through the anatomic model shows how, because of the complex structure of the AVN, reentry (slow-fast and fast-slow) can occur. In summary, a mathematical model of the anatomy of the AVN has been generated that allows AVN conduction to be explored.

Efficacy of physical exercise using the balance board game on physical and psychological function in patients with hematological malignancies confined to a bioclean room.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to define the efficacy and features of physical therapy (PT) using the Nintendo Wii Fit U (Nintendo Inc., Kyoto, Japan) in patients with hematological malignancies confined to a bioclean room. METHOD: A total of 33 patients with hematological malignancies confined to a bioclean room were enrolled in this study. This study was designed as a randomized crossover test between two weeklong interventions: PT program (Therapist PT) and Wii Fit U program (Wii PT). We compared the efficacy of Wii PT and Therapist PT with regard to physical and psychological function test scores. RESULTS: Of the 33 patients, 22 were analyzed. The validity of the crossover design was demonstrated, as there were no significant differences in period and carryover effects between the two groups. Therapist PT resulted in significantly better improvements in fatigue scores and total mood disturbance (TMD) scores in the Profile of Mood States short-form Japanese version compared to Wii PT (fatigue score, -5.2±8.3 vs 2.7±8.2; TMD score, -22.5±32.8 vs -2.6±20.5; p<0.05). Physical function improved post-Wii PT and post-Therapist PT interventions (p<0.05), and there was no difference in treatment effect. CONCLUSION: Improvements in physical function were clearly observed following the use of Wii PT in patients confined to a bioclean room. However, compared to Therapist PT, Wii PT was less effective in improving the psychological function of patients.

Localization of Na+ channel isoforms at the atrioventricular junction and atrioventricular node in the rat.

BACKGROUND: The electrical activity of the atrioventricular node (AVN) is functionally heterogeneous, but how this relates to distinct cell types and the 3-dimensional structure of the AVN is unknown. To address this, we have studied the expression of Na(V)1.5 and other Na+ channel isoforms in the AVN. METHODS AND RESULTS: The rat AVN was identified by Masson's trichrome staining together with immunolabeling of marker proteins: connexin40, connexin43, desmoplakin, atrial natriuretic peptide, and hyperpolarization-activated and cyclic nucleotide-gated channel 4. Na+ channel expression was investigated with immunohistochemistry with isoform-specific Na+ channel antibodies. Na(V)1.1 was distributed in a similar manner to Na(V)1.5. Na(V)1.2 was not detected. Na(V)1.3 labeling was present in nerve fibers and cell bodies (but not myocytes) and was abundant in the penetrating atrioventricular (AV) bundle and the common bundle but was much less abundant in other regions. Na(V)1.5 labeling was abundant in the atrial and ventricular myocardium and the left bundle branch. Na(V)1.5 labeling was absent in the open node, penetrating AV bundle, AV ring bundle, and common bundle but present at a reduced level in the inferior nodal extension and transitional zone. Na(V)1.6 was not detected. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings provide molecular evidence of multiple electrophysiological cell types at the AV junction. Impaired AV conduction as a result of mutations in or loss of Na(V)1.5 must be the result of impaired conduction in the AVN inputs (inferior nodal extension and transitional zone) or output (bundle branches) rather than the AVN itself (open node and penetrating AV bundle).

Extended atrial conduction system characterised by the expression of the HCN4 channel and connexin45.

OBJECTIVE: In the heart, there are multiple supraventricular pacemakers involved in normal pacemaking as well as arrhythmias and the objective was to determine the distribution of HCN4 (major isoform underlying the pacemaker current, I(f)) in the atria. METHODS: In the atria of the rat, the localisation of HCN4 and connexins was determined using immunohistochemistry, and electrical activity was recorded using extracellular electrodes. RESULTS: As expected, HCN4 and Cx45 (but not Cx43) were expressed in the sinoatrial node extending from the superior vena cava down the crista terminalis. The same pattern of expression of HCN4 and connexins was observed in a novel tract of nodal-like cells extending from the superior vena cava down the interatrial groove. Although the sinoatrial node was usually the leading pacemaker site, the novel tract of HCN4-expressing cells was capable of pacemaking and could act as the leading pacemaker site; there was evidence of a hierarchy of pacemakers. The same pattern of expression of HCN4 and connexins was also observed in the atrioventricular ring bundle (including the atrioventricular node) encircling the tricuspid valve, but not in the atrioventricular ring bundle encircling the mitral valve. HCN4 was not expressed in the pulmonary veins. CONCLUSIONS: The widespread distribution of HCN4 can explain the widespread location of the leading pacemaker site during sinus rhythm, the extensive region of tissue that has to be ablated to stop sinus rhythm, and the widespread distribution of ectopic foci responsible for atrial tachycardia.

The Effects of Elbow Bracing on Medial Elbow Joint Space Gapping Associated With Repetitive Throwing in High School Baseball Players.

BACKGROUND: Throwing athletes risk medial elbow injury from extreme valgus stress generated across the medial elbow during throwing. Braces have been developed to protect the elbow joint; however, no previous study has investigated the effects of elbow bracing on medial elbow joint space gapping associated with repetitive throwing. HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of elbow bracing on medial elbow joint space gapping during repetitive throwing. Our hypothesis was that an elbow brace may reduce mechanical stress on the elbow by reducing medial elbow joint space gapping. STUDY DESIGN: Controlled laboratory study. METHODS: Twenty-five high school baseball players participated in this study. Each subject pitched 100 times under 2 conditions: control (without elbow brace) and elbow brace. The ulnohumeral joint space was measured ultrasonically before pitching and after every block of 20 pitches. Measurement of the ulnohumeral joint space was carried out using ultrasound with the forearm hanging by the side. Two-way repeated-measures analysis of variance and post hoc tests were used to compare ulnohumeral joint space with repeated pitching and between the elbow brace and control conditions. RESULTS: In the control condition, ulnohumeral joint space after 60 pitches was significantly greater than that before pitching (P < .01). In contrast, in the elbow brace condition, ulnohumeral joint space was not significantly different after repeated pitching. When comparing these 2 conditions, ulnohumeral joint space in the control condition was significantly greater than that in the elbow brace condition after 60 pitches (P < .01). CONCLUSION: An elbow brace has the effect of preventing medial elbow joint space gapping with repeated throwing when determined ultrasonically by measuring the ulnohumeral joint space under gravity load. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: An elbow brace worn during baseball pitching practice may help reduce mechanical stress on the elbow by reducing medial elbow joint space gapping.

Site of origin and molecular substrate of atrioventricular junctional rhythm in the rabbit heart.

During failure of the sinoatrial node, the heart can be driven by an atrioventricular (AV) junctional pacemaker. The position of the leading pacemaker site during AV junctional rhythm is debated. In this study, we present evidence from high-resolution fluorescent imaging of electrical activity in rabbit isolated atrioventricular node (AVN) preparations that, in the majority of cases (11 out of 14), the AV junctional rhythm originates in the region extending from the AVN toward the coronary sinus along the tricuspid valve (posterior nodal extension, PNE). Histological and immunohistochemical investigation showed that the PNE has the same morphology and unique pattern of expression of neurofilament160 (NF160) and connexins (Cx40, Cx43, and Cx45) as the AVN itself. Block of the pacemaker current, If, by 2 mmol/L Cs+ increased the AV junctional rhythm cycle length from 611+/-84 to 949+/-120 ms (mean+/-SD, n=6, P<0.001). Immunohistochemical investigation showed that the principal If channel protein, HCN4, is abundant in the PNE. As well as the AV junctional rhythm, the PNE described in this study may also be involved in the slow pathway of conduction into the AVN as well as AVN reentry, and the predominant lack of expression of Cx43 as well as the presence of Cx45 in the PNE shown could help explain its slow conduction.

Pacing-induced spontaneous activity in myocardial sleeves of pulmonary veins after treatment with ryanodine.

BACKGROUND: Recent clinical electrophysiology studies and successful results of radiofrequency catheter ablation therapy suggest that high-frequency focal activity in the pulmonary veins (PVs) plays important roles in the initiation and perpetuation of atrial fibrillation, but the mechanisms underlying the focal arrhythmogenic activity are not understood. METHODS AND RESULTS: Extracellular potential mapping of rabbit right atrial preparations showed that ryanodine (2 micromol/L) caused a shift of the leading pacemaker from the sinoatrial node to an ectopic focus near the right PV-atrium junction. The transmembrane potential recorded from the isolated myocardial sleeve of the right PV showed typical atrial-type action potentials with a stable resting potential under control conditions. Treatment with ryanodine (0.5 to 2 micromol/L) resulted in a depolarization of the resting potential and a development of pacemaker depolarization. These changes were enhanced transiently after an increase in the pacing rate: a self-terminating burst of spontaneous action potentials (duration, 33.6+/-5.0 s; n=32) was induced by a train of rapid stimuli (3.3 Hz) applied after a brief rest period. The pacing-induced activity was attenuated by either depletion of the sarcoplasmic reticulum of Ca2+ or blockade of the sarcolemmal Na+-Ca2+ exchanger or Cl- channels and potentiated by beta-adrenergic stimulation. CONCLUSIONS: PV myocardial sleeves have the potential to generate spontaneous activity, and such arrhythmogenic activity is uncovered by modulation of intracellular Ca2+ dynamics.

Changes in grain size and grain storage protein of rice (Oryza Sativa L.) in response to elevated UV-B radiation under outdoor conditions.

Variation in growth, grain size and grain storage protein content of rice (Oryza sativa L.) in response to elevated UV-B radiation under sunlight was examined in a cool rice-growing region of Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, in 1999, 2001 and 2002. Tiller number, dry mass, panicle number, grain yield and grain size significantly decreased under elevated UV-B radiation in 2001 and 2002. The effects of elevated UV-B radiation on the reduction of each growth parameter were greatly enhanced by daily lower temperature during the ripening stage in those two years. On the contrary, total grain nitrogen content and grain storage protein content significantly increased under elevated UV-B radiation in 2001 and 2002. Among grain storage proteins, glutelin content significantly increased but albumin-globulin and prolamin contents did not. It was thus evident that not only grain size but also grain storage protein of rice was markedly influenced due to elevated UV-B radiation.

Platinum(IV) oxide catalyzed H-D exchange reactions in arylsilanes.

[reaction: see text] Arylsilanes were regioselectively labeled with deuterium by treatment with platinum(IV) oxide and deuterium oxide under hydrothermal conditions. Arylsilanols were also labeled with regioselectively under the same conditions.

H-D exchange reaction on benzene ring of polystyrene in hydrothermal deuterium oxide with platinum(IV) oxide catalyst.

Benzene rings of polystyrene samples are labelled with deuterium oxide and catalytic amount of platinum(iv) oxide under hydrothermal conditions.