Molecular Docking Studies of Ortho-Substituted Phenols to Tyrosinase Helps Discern If a Molecule Can Be an Enzyme Substrate.

Phenolic compounds with a position ortho to the free phenolic hydroxyl group occupied can be tyrosinase substrates. However, ortho-substituted compounds are usually described as inhibitors. The mechanism of action of tyrosinase on monophenols is complex, and if they are ortho-substituted, it is more complicated. It can be shown that many of these molecules can become substrates of the enzyme in the presence of catalytic o-diphenol, MBTH, or in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. Docking studies can help discern whether a molecule can behave as a substrate or inhibitor of the enzyme. Specifically, phenols such as thymol, carvacrol, guaiacol, eugenol, isoeugenol, and ferulic acid are substrates of tyrosinase, and docking simulations to the active center of the enzyme predict this since the distance of the peroxide oxygen from the oxy-tyrosinase form to the ortho position of the phenolic hydroxyl is adequate for the electrophilic attack reaction that gives rise to hydroxylation occurring.

Quality assessment in initial paediatric trauma care: Systematic review from prehospital care to the paediatric intensive care unit.

BACKGROUND: Trauma is the most common cause of death and disability in the paediatric population. There are a huge number of variables involved in the care they receive from health care professionals. AIM: The aim of this study was to review the available evidence of initial paediatric trauma care throughout the health care process with a view to create quality indicators (QIs). STUDY DESIGN: A systematic review was performed from Cochrane Library, Medline, Scopus and SciELO between 2010 and 2020. Studies and guidelines that examined quality or suggested QI were included. Indicators were classified by health care setting, Donabedian's model, risk of bias and the quality of the publication with the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) assessment. RESULTS: The initial search included 686 articles, which were reduced to 22, with 15 primary and 7 secondary research articles. The snowball sampling technique was used to add a further seven guidelines and two articles. From these, 534 possible indicators were extracted, summarizing them into 39 and grouping the prehospital care indicators as structure (N = 5), process (N = 12) and outcome (N = 3) indicators and the hospital care indicators as structure (N = 4), process (N = 10) and outcome (N = 6) indicators. Most of the QIs have been extracted from US studies. They are multidisciplinary and in some cases are based on an adaptation of the QIs of adult trauma care. CONCLUSIONS: There was a clear gap and large variability between the indicators, as well as low-quality evidence. Future studies will validate indicators using the Delphi method. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: Design a QI framework that may be used by the health system throughout the process. Indicators framework will get nurses, to assess the quality of health care, detect deficient areas and implement improvement measures.

The Relationship between the IC50 Values and the Apparent Inhibition Constant in the Study of Inhibitors of Tyrosinase Diphenolase Activity Helps Confirm the Mechanism of Inhibition.

Tyrosinase is the enzyme involved in melanization and is also responsible for the browning of fruits and vegetables. Control of its activity can be carried out using inhibitors, which is interesting in terms of quantitatively understanding the action of these regulators. In the study of the inhibition of the diphenolase activity of tyrosinase, it is intriguing to know the strength and type of inhibition. The strength is indicated by the value of the inhibition constant(s), and the type can be, in a first approximation: competitive, non-competitive, uncompetitive and mixed. In this work, it is proposed to calculate the degree of inhibition (iD), varying the concentration of inhibitor to a fixed concentration of substrate, L-dopa (D). The non-linear regression adjustment of iD with respect to the initial inhibitor concentration [I]0 allows for the calculation of the inhibitor concentration necessary to inhibit the activity by 50%, at a given substrate concentration (IC50), thus avoiding making interpolations between different values of iD. The analytical expression of the IC50, for the different types of inhibition, are related to the apparent inhibition constant (KIapp). Therefore, this parameter can be used: (a) To classify a series of inhibitors of an enzyme by their power. Determining these values at a fixed substrate concentration, the lower IC50, the more potent the inhibitor. (b) Checking an inhibitor for which the type and the inhibition constant have been determined (using the usual methods), must confirm the IC50 value according to the corresponding analytical expression. (c) The type and strength of an inhibitor can be analysed from the study of the variation in iD and IC50 with substrate concentration. The dependence of IC50 on the substrate concentration allows us to distinguish between non-competitive inhibition (iD does not depend on [D]0) and the rest. In the case of competitive inhibition, this dependence of iD on [D]0 leads to an ambiguity between competitive inhibition and type 1 mixed inhibition. This is solved by adjusting the data to the possible equations; in the case of a competitive inhibitor, the calculation of KI1app is carried out from the IC50 expression. The same occurs with uncompetitive inhibition and type 2 mixed inhibition. The representation of iD vs. n, with n=[D]0/KmD, allows us to distinguish between them. A hyperbolic iD vs. n representation that passes through the origin of coordinates is a characteristic of uncompetitive inhibition; the calculation of KI2app is immediate from the IC50 value. In the case of mixed inhibitors, the values of the apparent inhibition constant of meta-tyrosinase (Em) and oxy-tyrosinase (Eox), KI1app and the apparent inhibition constant of metatyrosinase/Dopa complexes (EmD) and oxytyrosinase/Dopa (EoxD), KI2app are obtained from the dependence of iD vs. n, and the results obtained must comply with the IC50 value.

Evaluation of interface pressure and temperature management in five wheelchair seat cushions and their effects on user satisfaction.

BACKGROUND: Factors such as the manufacturing materials, shape or even the mechanical and thermal response of sitting Pressure Redistribution Support Surfaces (PRSS) can be potential contributors to pressure ulcers. However, few studies have compared a number of characteristics of the most frequently used devices. OBJECTIVE: To compare three potential contributors to pressure ulcers in five commercial PRSS: pressure redistribution, temperature and perceived comfort. METHOD: Study with a cross-over randomized design in healthy volunteer participants. Data was collected in a temperature and relative humidity controlled environment. To assess thermal response, the temperature (Flir-E60) of the region of interest was captured before and after use of each PRSS for further analysis. The region of interest was the gluteal zone. To assess the pressure redistribution a pressure mat (XSensor®) was used between the 5 cushion and each study participant using a standardized method. Finally, a subjective perception questionnaire recorded comfort, adaptability and thermal sensation parameters. Data analysis levels of significance were set at 0.05. RESULTS: A total of 22 participants completed the assessments. There were no statistically significant differences in baseline temperatures between PRSS (>0.05). Pressure redistribution analysis showed significant differences between all PRSS in all variables evaluated except in the maximum and peak pressure index al sacrum. The subjective assessment suggested no major user-perceived differences between PRSS. CONCLUSION: Seat cushions made of open cell polyurethane foam blocks of variable hardness and the horseshoe cushion (also open cell polyurethane foam) seem to provide a more effective pressure relief characteristic than those injected with polyurethane foam and gel in most of the studied pressure variables. However, the cushions provide similar thermal response and perceived comfort.

The effects of preoperative balance training on balance and functional outcome after total knee replacement: a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effects of preoperative balance training on the early postoperative balance and functional outcomes after total knee replacement surgery and to test whether an outpatient intervention may be as effective as a domiciliary intervention. DESIGN: This is a three-arm randomized controlled trial. SETTING: University hospital. SUBJECTS: Eighty-six individuals were recruited. Seventy-seven were analysed, aged 72.1 (SD 7.6) years, of which 68% were women. OUTCOME MEASURES: Overall state of balance, as measured with the Berg Balance Scale, and patient-perceived functionality, as measured with the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score Function in Activities in Daily Living (KOOS-ADL) questionnaire, were the primary outcomes. Secondary assessments targeted knee function, balance and mobility, quality of life, and self-reported outcomes. The primary end-point was six weeks after surgery. INTERVENTION: The hospital group implemented a four-week preoperative outpatient balance-oriented intervention. The home group implemented similar training, but this was domiciliary. The control group was instructed to keep performing their normal activities. RESULTS: Home and hospital groups presented a moderate effect against the control group (dhospital-control = 0.54; dhome-control = 0.63), both being similarly effective in improving the overall state of balance at six weeks after surgery (P = 0.013). KOOS-ADL scores showed no between-group differences and a small effect size (d < 0.5; P = 0.937). Secondary assessments suggested non-significant between-group differences. CONCLUSION: Preoperative balance training, conducted either as domiciliary or as an outpatient, is an effective approach to enhance early postoperative balance outcome but not the perceived functionality of individuals undergoing total knee replacement.

Prevention of pressure injuries in critically ill children: A preliminary evaluation.

AIMS: To evaluate a prevention strategy implemented to reduce incidence and severity of positioning related pressure injuries affecting pediatric patients in a pediatric critical care unit. Secondary objective was to evaluate compliance with preventive recommendations. BACKGROUND: The skin in infants or children has important physiological and anatomical differences compared with adults. Further, factors such as the immaturity of the skin and limited activity and mobility in pediatric critical care unit, along with the pressure exerted by medical devices, increases the risk of pressure ulcers in infants and children. The most effective preventive measures specific to this intensive care population need to be evaluated. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Quasi-experimental before-after study with consecutive sampling. The effectiveness of the care bundle implementation was evaluated based on the latest evidence (intervention group) versus the application of non-standardized care (control group). Pediatric patients up to 14 years old at risk of suffering from pressure injuries and who were admitted more than 48 h in a pediatric intensive care unit (level III) participated. For the collection of data, two computer programs and the hospital clinical records of each participant were consulted. The data collection period was 6 months per group (pre and post intervention). RESULTS: A sample of 110 patients was obtained (50 control group and 60 intervention group). The cumulative incidence in pediatric patients exposed to the risk of pressure injuries was reduced from 16% to 13.3%; and in the subgroup of patients with prolonged stay (≥28 days), the incidence was reduced from 55.55% to 20%. In the intervention group, category III and IV pressure ulcers were completely reduced. In addition, the total number of pressure injuries decreased by 21.43%. The care bandle recommendations with the highest level of adhesion recorded were: skin inspection, application of hyperoxygenated fatty acids and use of a special support surface. The main risk factor found during the study was the prone position (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The application of a care bundle for prevention can be an effective solution to reduce the number and severity of LPPs in an intensive care unit. The most vulnerable subgroup of patients may benefit from the application of these resources.

Prevalence of pressure ulcers in the paediatric population and in primary health care: An epidemiological study conducted in Spain.

AIM: The primary goal of this study was to estimate the prevalence of pressure ulcers in the paediatric population cared for in primary health care. MATERIALS: The data of this epidemiological study were extracted from the records of the 24 departments that attended to an approximate population of 1 million inhabitants between 0 and 18 years old from 2012 to 2015. The study included children requiring assistance to reduce pressure ulcer incidence. The paediatric population was categorised into neonates and infants (0-2 years), young child (3-6 years), child (7-12 years) and adolescents (13-18 years). The primary outcome was information on the prevalence of pressure ulcers. Secondary outcomes were classification of ulcers in terms of location and category. Other outcomes included the total number of consultations owing to pressure ulcers. RESULTS: The sample included 65,359 children who attended 813 centres of primary health care. The prevalence of pressure ulcers was 1.72%. A higher prevalence was observed in children younger than 3 years (2.89%), with children at age 1 year showing the most prevalence (4.77%). The highest number of diagnosed ulcers was located in the lower back and heels, regardless of the age range. CONCLUSION: Overall, the prevalence of pressure ulcers in the paediatric population attended to in primary health care is low when compared to that of hospitalised and acutely ill children. The figures advise that special attention should be paid to the care of the population younger than 3 years, because this population shows the highest prevalence.

Cross-cultural adaptation, reliability and validity of the Spanish version of the Neonatal Skin Risk Assessment Scale.

AIM: To adapt the Neonatal Skin Risk Assessment Scale to the Spanish context and to test its validity and reliability. BACKGROUND: Currently, in Spain there are no validated scales to evaluate the risk of pressure ulcers in infants. METHOD: The research was performed in 10 neonatal units. Overall, we use an observational study design, but divided it in to three stages. In the first stage, the transcultural adaptation of the scale and its content validation was performed. For the second stage, the inter-rater/intra-rater agreement and construct validity were evaluated using a cross-sectional design. Finally, in the third stage, a cohort study to analyse pressure ulcers' incidence, diagnostic tests and the cut-off points of the scale was performed. RESULTS: In the first phase, the content validity index was 0.93. In the second phase (336 neonates), the intra-rater reliability was 0.93 and the inter-rater reliability was 0.97. The construct validity has shown a two-dimensional model that fits better, representing "pressure duration and intensity" and "skin immaturity." In the third phase (268 neonates) the best values were those presented by the score 17: receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.84, showing a sensitivity of 91.18%, specificity of 76.50%, positive predictive value of 36.05% and negative predictive value of 98.35%. CONCLUSION: The scale has shown evidence of validity and reliability to measure the neonatal risk of pressure ulcers in the Spanish context. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT: Pressure ulcers are an adverse event recognised in paediatric units and specifically in neonatal units. The intent of the Spanish Neonatal Skin Risk Assessment Scale is to identify hospitalised neonates requiring prevention measures and their specific risk factors, to provide useful diagnostic information to improve the neonatal skin care into Spanish speaking countries. The Neonatal Skin Risk Assessment Scale could ensure the efficient and effective allocation of limited preventive resources, support clinical and management decisions, allow risk-adjusted cases in epidemiological studies, facilitate the development of risk assessment protocols and serve as evidence in litigation cases. All these features could facilitate developing best practice in nursing management and improve the quality and safety of neonatal care.

Pressure ulcers' incidence, preventive measures, and risk factors in neonatal intensive care and intermediate care units.

Epidemiological studies on pressure ulcers (PUs) in hospitalised infants are scarce. Spain lacks comprehensive research studies providing data on the prevalence or incidence in this population. This work was developed to determine the incidence of PUs in hospitalised infants admitted to intensive and intermediate care units, along with relevant risk factors and preventive measures. A prospective study appraising the incidence of PUs in infants was performed. The risk factors and preventive measures were evaluated using a multivariate logistic regression model. A sample of 268 infants was included. The cumulative incidence of PUs was 12.70% (95% confidence interval, CI95% = [8.95%-17.28%]). The cumulative incidence in the intermediate care units was 1.90% (CI95% = [0.39%-5.45%]), while it was 28.18% (CI95% = [20.02%-37.56%]) in the intensive care units. The PUs were categorised as stage I, 57.10%; stage II, 31.70%; and stage III, 11.10%. The multivariate analysis found the following to be risk factors: low scores in the Spanish version of the Neonatal Skin Risk Assessment Scale (e-NSRAS) (Relative Risk (RR) 0.80; CI95% = [0.66-0.97]), the use of non-invasive mechanical ventilation (RR 12.24; CI95% = [4.02-37.32]), and the length of stay (RR 1.08; CI95% = [1.02-1.15]), suggesting a direct impact of these factors on PU development in infants. Kangaroo care influenced the prevention of PUs (RR 0.26; CI95% = [0.09-0.71]). The infants admitted in intermediate care units suffered PUs. In the case of intensive care units, the incidence is even higher. The risk increases with the length of stay, while the presence of medical devices, particularly non-invasive mechanical ventilation, is the main causal relationship. Kangaroo care has been shown to be an important preventive measure.

Incidence of incontinence-associated dermatitis in hospitalised neonates. Adaptation and validation of a severity scale.

INTRODUCTION: Up to 60% of hospitalised neonates may develop incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD). Our aim was to adapt the Clinical Evaluation Scale for Characterization of the Severity of Diaper Dermatitis to the Spanish population and to find out the nationwide frequency of IAD in hospitalized neonates. METHODS: Cross-cultural adaptation and assessment of content validity of the scale. We carried out a prospective, multicentre observational study of the incidence of nappy rash in postnatal wards and neonatal intensive care units in 6 Spanish hospitals. RESULTS: We obtained a content validity index of 0.869 for the total scale (95% CI, 0.742-0.939). The sample included 196 neonates. The cumulative incidence of IAD was 32.1% (9.1% mild-moderate, 8% moderate and 1.6% severe). The incidence rate was 2.2 IAD cases per 100 patient days. A stool pH of less than 5.5, a greater number of bowel movements a day, a greater daily urine output and the use of oral drugs were among the factors associated with the development of IAD. CONCLUSION: The Spanish version of the Clinical Evaluation Scale for Characterization of the Severity of Diaper Dermatitis had an adequate content validity for the assessment of DAI in the hospitalised neonatal population. Mixed feeding, treatment with oral drugs and the use of medical devices in the perianal area were associated with an increased risk of nappy dermatitis in infants.

An Explanatory Model of Vascular Access Care Quality: Results of a Cross-Sectional Observational Study.

The management of nursing care regarding patients' vascular access is a priority. This study determines the contribution of the variables involved in the quality of care and maintenance of vascular access (VA) devices in admitted patients in the Valencian Community. METHODS: Using the STROBE statement, an observational, cross-sectional study was conducted on 1576 VA devices. Data were collected using the INCATIV Questionnaire. We performed a multivariate analysis of the questionnaire variables. RESULTS: In total, 50% had a good or very good assessment of the VA condition. This was positively correlated with anatomical location, dressing type, dressing date record, use of needle-free connectors (NFCs), date of last dressing change, presence of phlebitis, visibility of the insertion site and characteristics of the dressing's condition (p < 0.001). The model indicated that the presence of phlebitis was the clearest predictor of a poor VA care assessment (OR = 20.579), followed by no visibility of the insertion site (OR = 14.209). Results also indicated that uncovered VA lumens or no NFCs used were related to a negative quality assessment. CONCLUSION: By managing and controlling these variables, the likelihood of providing optimal care is ensured. This enables the establishment of a standardised care approach for all nursing professionals and the building of a new quality indicator.

Considerations about the inhibition of monophenolase and diphenolase activities of tyrosinase. Characterization of the inhibitor concentration which generates 50 % of inhibition, type and inhibition constants. A review.

Tyrosinase is a copper oxidase enzyme which catalyzes the first two steps in the melanogenesis pathway, L-tyrosine to L-dopa conversion and, then, to o-dopaquinone and dopachrome. Hypopigmentation and, above all, hyperpigmentation issues can be originated depending on their activity. This enzyme also promotes the browning of fruits and vegetables. Therefore, control of their activity by regulators is research topic of great relevance. In this work, we consider the use of inhibitors of monophenolase and diphenolase activities of the enzyme in order to accomplish such control. An experimental design and data analysis which allow the accurate calculation of the degree of inhibition of monophenolase activity (iM) and diphenolase activity (iD) are proposed. The IC50 values (amount of inhibitor that causes 50 % inhibition at a fixed substrate concentration) can be calculated for the two activities and from the values of IC50M (monophenolase) and IC50D(diphenolase). Additionally, the strength and type of inhibition can be deduced from these values. The data analysis from these IC50D values allows to obtain the values of [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text] , or and [Formula: see text] from the values of IC50M. In all cases, the values of the different must satisfy their relationship with IC50M and IC50D.

Targeting tyrosinase in hyperpigmentation: Current status, limitations and future promises.

Hyperpigmentation is a common and distressing dermatologic condition. Since tyrosinase (TYR) plays an essential role in melanogenesis, its inhibition is considered a logical approach along with other therapeutic methods to prevent the accumulation of melanin in the skin. Thus, TYR inhibitors are a tempting target as the medicinal and cosmetic active agents of hyperpigmentation disorder. Among TYR inhibitors, hydroquinone is a traditional lightening agent that is commonly used in clinical practice. However, despite good efficacy, prolonged use of hydroquinone is associated with side effects. To overcome these shortcomings, new approaches in targeting TYR and treating hyperpigmentation are desperately requiredessentialneeded. In line with this purpose, several non-hydroquinone lightening agents have been developed and suggested as hydroquinone alternatives. In addition to traditional approaches, nanomedicine and nanotheranostic platforms have been recently proposed in the treatment of hyperpigmentation. In this review, we discuss the available strategies for the management of hyperpigmentation with a focus on TYR inhibition. In addition, alternative treatment options to hydroquinone are discussed. Finally, we present nano-based strategies to improve the therapeutic effect of drugs prescribed to patients with skin disorders.

Training, management, and quality of nursing care of vascular access in adult patients: The INCATIV project.

BACKGROUND: More than one billion of peripheral venous catheters are inserted into hospitalized patients every year. This study sought to identify the status of nursing care in vascular accesses in different hospitals and to evaluate the impact of a series of informative and formative interventions aimed at their care. METHODS: Quasi-experimental, multicenter study. A total of 54 nursing professionals of 19 hospitals participated. The intervention consisted of informative talk and three training sessions related to the care and maintenance of vascular accesses and intravenous therapy in the hospital-admitted adult population. This was delivered in four years, with eight periodic cross-sectional assessments conducted before and after each intervention. To assess quality of nursing care in vascular accesses and intravenous therapy, a quality indicator called Standard Variable (VES), was developed and validated with the Delphi methodology. RESULTS: A total of 21,108 patients, aged 64.0 years (SD 18.3), were assessed, of which 78.3% (16,516) had some type of vascular access inserted. An average of 22.1% (95% CI: 21.4-22.7) were classified as optimal. In total, 3218 nursing care professionals took part in the training activities. The VES indicator grew steadily throughout the study, raising from 7.8% to 37.6%. Changes were statistically significant between those time points in which one of the described interventions was delivered; however, there were no significant changes between time points with no intervention. CONCLUSIONS: This study supports that continuous training interventions can produce improvements in the quality of nursing care and reduce complications in patients with vascular accesses. In addition, the VES indicator was a useful and simple tool to measure quality, but the experience with its use suggests continuous research in the search for standardized indicators that objectify the evaluation and evolution of care.

Cross-cultural adaptation to Spanish and content validity of three nutritional risk scales.

INTRODUCTION: There are various scales designed to determine the risk of malnutrition at hospital admission in children. However, most of these instruments are developed and published in English. Their cross-cultural adaptation and validation being mandatory in order to be used in our country. OBJECTIVES: Cross-culturally adapt three scales designed to determine the risk of malnutrition linked to the disease and determine the validity of their content. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cross-cultural adaptation using the translation-back-translation method in accordance with the recommendations of the International Test Commission Guidelines for Translating and Adapting Tests. Content validity was measured by a panel of experts (under seven basic selection criteria adapted from the Fehring model) who evaluated each item of the scales by measuring 4 criteria: ambiguity, simplicity, clarity and relevance. With the extracted score, Aiken's V statistic was obtained for each item and for the complete scales. RESULTS: Starting from three independent translations per scale, 3 definitive versions in Spanish of the PNRS, STRONGkids and STAMP scales were obtained semantically equivalent to their original versions. The PNRS and STRONGkids scales presented an Aiken's V greater than 0.75 in all their items, while the STAMP scale presented a value less than 0.75 for the item "weight and height". CONCLUSION: This study provides the transculturally adapted Spanish versions of the PNRS, STRONGkids and STAMP scales. The PNRS and STRONGkids scales present valid content to be applied in the state hospital context. STAMP requires the adaptation of its item "weight and height" to consider its use in a Spanish child population adequate.

Anticancer Activity of the Choline Kinase Inhibitor PL48 Is Due to Selective Disruption of Choline Metabolism and Transport Systems in Cancer Cell Lines.

A large number of different types of cancer have been shown to be associated with an abnormal metabolism of phosphatidylcholine (PC), the main component of eukaryotic cell membranes. Indeed, the overexpression of choline kinase α1 (ChoKα1), the enzyme that catalyses the bioconversion of choline to phosphocholine (PCho), has been found to associate with cell proliferation, oncogenic transformation and carcinogenesis. Hence, ChoKα1 has been described as a possible cancer therapeutic target. Moreover, the choline transporter CTL1 has been shown to be highly expressed in several tumour cell lines. In the present work, we evaluate the antiproliferative effect of PL48, a rationally designed inhibitor of ChoKα1, in MCF7 and HepG2 cell lines. In addition, we illustrate that the predominant mechanism of cellular choline uptake in these cells is mediated by the CTL1 choline transporter. A possible correlation between the inhibition of both choline uptake and ChoKα1 activity and cell proliferation in cancer cell lines is also highlighted. We conclude that the efficacy of this inhibitor on cell proliferation in both cell lines is closely correlated with its capability to block choline uptake and ChoKα1 activity, making both proteins potential targets in cancer therapy.

[Diary of a congressman]. / Diario de un congresista. Cronica del VIII Simposio Nacional sobre Ulceras por Presion y Heridas Crónicas celebrado en Santiago de Compostela.

Personal assessments of an assistant to the Eighth National Symposium on Pressure Ulcer and Chronic Wounds, held in Santiago de Compostela in November 2010. Show details asked for his cooperation because it is one of the youngest assistants, prepared, inquisitive and dynamic. Below are his reflections on the meeting and his comments on the contents set, participation, issues that will need monitoring, etc.

Effectiveness of mechanical diagnosis and therapy in patients with non-specific chronic low back pain: a literature review with meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the effectiveness of mechanical diagnosis and therapy (MDT) in patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP) compared to other traditional physical therapy interventions. METHODS: Randomized controlled trials investigating the effect of MDT compared to other traditional physical therapy interventions in individuals with CLBP were considered eligible. For the purpose of this review, MDT was compared to active and passive physical therapy interventions. Independent reviewers assessed the eligibility of studies, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias. The primary outcomes investigated were pain and disability. RESULTS: Fourteen studies were included in the review. Of these, 11 provided data to be included in the meta-analyses. Our findings showed that MDT was no more effective in decreasing pain (standardized mean difference [SMD]=0.01, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.44, 0.46) and disability (SMD=0.08, 95% CI: -0.53, 0.68) than other active treatments. Similar results were found when comparing MDT to other passive treatments for pain (SMD=-0.39, 95% CI: -0.90, 0.11) and disability (SMD=-0.13, 95% CI: -0.29, 0.03). CONCLUSION: There is low to moderate quality evidence that MDT is not superior than other traditional physical therapy interventions in improving pain and disability in people with CLBP.

Considerations about the Continuous Assay Methods, Spectrophotometric and Spectrofluorometric, of the Monophenolase Activity of Tyrosinase.

With the purpose to obtain the more useful tyrosinase assay for the monophenolase activity of tyrosinase between the spectrofluorometric and spectrophotometric continuous assays, simulated assays were made by means of numerical integration of the equations that characterize the mechanism of monophenolase activity. These assays showed that the rate of disappearance of monophenol (VssM,M) is equal to the rate of accumulation of dopachrome (VssM,DC) or to the rate of accumulation of its oxidized adduct, originated by the nucleophilic attack on o-quinone by a nucleophile such as 3-methyl-2-benzothiazolinone (MBTH), (VssM, A-ox), despite the existence of coupled reactions. It is shown that the spectrophotometric methods that use MBTH are more useful, as they do not have the restrictions of the L-tyrosine disappearance measurement method, of working at pH = 8 and not having a linear response from 100 µM of L-tyrosine. It is possible to obtain low LODM (limit of detection of the monophenolase activity) values with spectrophotometric methods. The spectrofluorimetric methods had a lower LODM than spectrophotometric methods. In the case of 4-hydroxyphenil-propionic acid, the LODM obtained by us was 0.25 U/mL. Considering the relative sensitivities of 4-hydroxyanisole, compared with 4-hydroxyphenil-propionic acid, LODM values like those obtained by fluorescent methods would be expected.