Utilidad del monitoreo hemodinámico con espectroscopia cercana infrarroja en pediatría / Use of near infrared spectroscopy for hemodynamic monitoring in pediatrics

La espectroscopia cercana infrarroja (NIRS, por su sigla en inglés), es una técnica óptica no invasiva y no ionizante utilizada para medir la oxigenación tisular regional a través de sensores transcutáneos. En los últimos años, han aumentado de manera exponencial las publicaciones sobre este tema; esto refleja el creciente interés de investigadores y clínicos por la utilización de esta nueva tecnología y los beneficios que podría ofrecerles a los pacientes pediátricos. El objetivo de esta revisión es dar a conocer el funcionamiento y las posibles aplicaciones de la saturación regional medida por NIRS, así como los desafíos en el futuro.

Near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is a non-invasive optical technique for the evaluation of regional tissue oxygenation using transcutaneous detectors. In recent years, publications about this topic have increased exponentially; this reflects the growing interest among investigators and clinicians about this new technology and its potential benefits for pediatric patients. The objective of this review is to know the functioning and potential uses of regional saturation measured by NIRS and establish future challenges.

Muscle oxygenation of the quadriceps and gastrocnemius during maximal aerobic effort / Oxigenación muscular de cuádriceps y gastrocnemio durante el esfuerzo aeróbico máximo / Oxigenação muscular de quadríceps e gastrocnêmio durante o esforço aeróbico máximo

ABSTRACT Introduction: Near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is a non-invasive technique that is used in the assessment of tissue oxygenation and the monitoring of physical activity. Objective: To determine the influence of sexual, anthropometric and ergospirometric factors on muscle oxygenation of the quadriceps and gastrocnemius, obtained by NIRS during a stress test. Methods: Twenty healthy subjects participated in this study (10 women). Two Humon Hex® devices were placed on the dominant side of the quadriceps and gastrocnemius muscles to measure muscle oxygen saturation (SmO2). The stress test was performed on a treadmill with electrocardiographic control and measurement of oxygen consumption. SmO2 was obtained at rest and after maximum effort during the stress test. In addition, the height, weight, skinfold and waist contour were measured. Bioimpedance was used to obtain the percentages of fat mass and muscle mass, which were used to calculate the relative fat mass (RFM). Results: The SmO2 of both muscles at rest is higher in males than in females. At maximum effort, the SmO2 of the quadriceps is similar in both groups. The SmO2 of both muscles is positively related to height, body mass, percentage of mass muscle and waist contour, and negatively with percentage of mass fat, RFM and skinfold thickness. The negative correlation between fat percentage and oxygen saturation is more evident in females. It was observed that the variables that quantify maximum effort are not related to the SmO2 values, except for the correlation between HR max and SmO2 of the gastrocnemius muscle in males. Conclusion: The SmO2 of recreational athletes is influenced by the location of the device and the fat mass of the subjects. The biggest differences between the sexes are in the gastrocnemius muscle. Level of Evidence II; Diagnostic Studies - Investigating a Diagnostic Test .

RESUMEN Introducción: La espectroscopia de infrarrojo cercano (NIRS) es una técnica no invasiva usada en la evaluación de la oxigenación tisular y en la monitorización de la actividad física. Objetivos: Determinar la influencia de factores sexuales, antropométricos y ergoespirométricos sobre la oxigenación muscular de cuádriceps y del gastrocnemio, obtenidos por NIRS durante un test de esfuerzo. Métodos: Participaron en este estudio 20 individuos saludables (10 mujeres). Se colocaron dos dispositivos Humon Hex® en el lado dominante de los músculos cuádriceps y gastrocnemio para medir la saturación de oxígeno muscular (SmO2). El test de esfuerzo fue realizado en una cinta ergométrica con control electrocardiográfico y medición del consumo de oxígeno. La SmO2 fue obtenida en reposo y después de esfuerzo máximo durante el test. Además, fueron medidos altura, peso, pliegues cutáneos y contorno de la cintura. Fue usada bioimpedancia para obtener los porcentuales de masa grasa y masa muscular, que fueron usados para calcular la masa grasa relativa (MGR). Resultados: La SmO2 de ambos músculos en reposo es mayor en hombres que en mujeres. En el esfuerzo máximo la SmO2 del cuádriceps es semejante en los dos grupos. La SmO2 de ambos músculos es positivamente relacionada con altura, masa corporal, porcentual de masa muscular y contorno de la cintura y negativamente relacionada con el porcentaje de masa grasa, MGR y espesor de los pliegues cutáneos. La correlación negativa entre el porcentual de grasa y la saturación de oxígeno es más evidente en las mujeres. Se observó que variables que cuantifican el esfuerzo máximo no está relacionadas con los valores SmO2, excepto por la correlación entre FCmáx y SmO2 del músculo gastrocnemio en sexo masculino. Conclusión: La SmO2 de los atletas recreativos es influenciada por la localización del dispositivo y por la masa grasa de los individuos. Las mayores diferencias entre los sexos están en el músculo gastrocnemio. Nivel de Evidencia II; Estudios diagnósticos - Investigación de un examen para diagnóstico .

RESUMO Introdução: A espectroscopia de infravermelho próximo (NIRS) é uma técnica não invasiva usada na avaliação da oxigenação tecidual e no monitoramento da atividade física. Objetivos: Determinar a influência de fatores sexuais, antropométricos e ergoespirométricos sobre a oxigenação muscular do quadríceps e do gastrocnêmio obtidos por NIRS durante um teste de esforço. Métodos: Participaram deste estudo 20 indivíduos saudáveis (10 mulheres). Dois dispositivos Humon Hex® foram colocados no lado dominante dos músculos quadríceps e gastrocnêmio para medir a saturação de oxigênio muscular (SmO2). O teste de esforço foi realizado em uma esteira com controle eletrocardiográfico e mensuração do consumo de oxigênio. A SmO2foi obtida em repouso e depois de esforço máximo durante o teste. Além disso, foram medidos estatura, peso, dobras cutâneas e contorno da cintura. A bioimpedância foi usada para obter os percentuais de massa gorda e massa muscular, que foram usados para calcular a massa gorda relativa (MGR). Resultados: A SmO2de ambos os músculos em repouso é maior em homens do que em mulheres. No esforço máximo, a SmO2do quadríceps é semelhante nos dois os grupos. A SmO2de ambos os músculos é positivamente relacionada com estatura, massa corporal, percentual de massa muscular e contorno da cintura e negativamente relacionada com a porcentagem de massa gorda, MGR e espessura das dobras cutâneas. A correlação negativa entre o percentual de gordura e a saturação de oxigênio é mais evidente nas mulheres. Observou-se que variáveis que quantificam o esforço máximo não estão relacionadas com os valores SmO2, exceto pela correlação entre FCmáx e SmO2do músculo gastrocnêmio no sexo masculino. Conclusão: A SmO2dos atletas recreativos é influenciada pela localização do dispositivo e pela massa gorda dos indivíduos. As maiores diferenças entre os sexos estão no músculo gastrocnêmio. Nível de Evidência II; Estudos diagnósticos - Investigação de um exame para diagnóstico .

Mild poikilocapnic hypoxia increases very low frequency haemoglobin oxygenation oscillations in prefrontal cortex

BACKGROUND: The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of mild cerebral hypoxia on haemoglobin oxygenation (HbO2), cerebrospinal fluid dynamics and cardiovascular physiology. To achieve this goal, four signals were recorded simultaneously: blood pressure, heart rate / electrocardiogram, HbO2 from right hemisphere and changes of subarachnoid space (SAS) width from left hemisphere. Signals were registered from 30 healthy, young participants (2 females and 28 males, body mass index = 24.5 ± 2.3 kg/m2, age 30.8 ± 13.4 years). RESULTS: We analysed the recorded signals using wavelet transform and phase coherence. We demonstrated for the first time that in healthy subjects exposed to mild poikilokapnic hypoxia there were increases in very low frequency HbO2 oscillations (< 0.052 Hz) in prefrontal cortex. Additionally, SAS fluctuation diminished in the whole frequency range which could be explained by brain oedema. CONCLUSIONS: Consequently the study provides insight into mechanisms governing brain response to a mild hypoxic challenge. Our study supports the notion that HbO2 and SAS width monitoring might be beneficial for patients with acute lung disease.

Suitability of the muscle O2 resaturation parameters most used for assessing reactive hyperemia: a near-infrared spectroscopy study / Adequação de parâmetros de ressaturação muscular de O2 mais utilizados na avaliação da hiperemia reativa: um estudo por espectroscopia no infravermelho próximo

Abstract Background There is a spectrum of possibilities for analyzing muscle O2 resaturation parameters for measurement of reactive hyperemia in microvasculature. However, there is no consensus with respect to the responsiveness of these O2 resaturation parameters for assessing reactive hyperemia. Objectives This study investigates the responsiveness of the most utilized muscle O2 resaturation parameters to assess reactive hyperemia in the microvasculature of a clinical group known to exhibit impairments of tissue O2 saturation (StO2). Methods Twenty-three healthy young adults, twenty-nine healthy older adults, and thirty-five older adults at risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) were recruited. Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) was used to assess StO2 after a 5-min arterial occlusion challenge and the following parameters were analyzed: StO2slope_10s, StO2slope_30s, and StO2slope_until_baseline (upslope of StO2 over 10s and 30s and until StO2 reaches the baseline value); time to StO2baseline and time to StO2max (time taken for StO2 to reach baseline and peak values, respectively); ∆StO2reperfusion (the difference between minimum and maximum StO2 values); total area under the curve (StO2AUCt); and AUC above the baseline value (StO2AUC_above_base). Results Only StO2slope_10s was significantly slower in older adults at risk for CVD compared to healthy young individuals (p < 0.001) and to healthy older adults (p < 0.001). Conversely, time to StO2max was significantly longer in healthy young individuals than in older adult at CVD risk. Conclusions Our findings suggest that StO2slope_10s may be a measure of reactive hyperemia, which provides clinical insight into microvascular function assessment.

Resumo Contexto Existe um espectro de possibilidades na análise dos parâmetros de ressaturação de O2 muscular como uma medida de hiperemia reativa na microvasculatura. No entanto, não há consenso com relação à responsividade desses parâmetros de ressaturação de O2 para avaliação de hiperemia reativa. Objetivos Este estudo investigou a capacidade de resposta dos parâmetros de ressaturação muscular de O2 mais utilizados para avaliar a hiperemia reativa na microvasculatura de um grupo clínico conhecido por apresentar comprometimento da saturação de O2 (StO2). Métodos Foram recrutados 23 jovens saudáveis, 29 idosos saudáveis e 35 idosos com risco para doença cardiovascular. A espectroscopia no infravermelho próximo foi usada para avaliar a StO2 após um teste de oclusão arterial de 5 minutos, no qual os seguintes parâmetros foram analisados: StO2slope_10s, StO2slope_30s e StO2slope_until_baseline (inclinação da StO2 em 10 s, 30 s e até StO2 atingir valores basais); tempo para StO2baseline e tempo para StO2máx (o tempo necessário para StO2 atingir os valores da linha de base e o máximo, respectivamente); ∆StO2reperfusão (a diferença entre o valor de StO2mínimo e StO2máximo); área total sob a curva (StO2AUCt); e área sob a curva acima do valor da linha de base (StO2AUC_above_base). Resultados Apenas StO2slope_10s foi significativamente mais lento em idosos em risco de doença cardiovascular comparados com indivíduos jovens saudáveis (p < 0,001) e idosos saudáveis (p < 0,001). Por outro lado, o tempo para StO2max foi significativamente maior em indivíduos jovens saudáveis do que em idosos em risco de doença cardiovascular. Conclusões Nossos achados sugerem que StO2slope_10s pode ser uma medida de hiperemia reativa, que fornece informações clínicas sobre a avaliação da função microvascular.

Investigation of the relationship between cerebral near-infrared spectroscopy measurements and cerebrovascular event in coronary artery bypass grafting operation in patients without carotid stenosis and patients with carotid stenosis below surgical margins

Abstract Objectives: Stroke is an important cause of mortality and morbidity in surgery. In the present study, we examined the cerebral oximetry values of patients with carotid artery stenosis who did not present surgical indications and those who did not present carotid artery stenosis in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery by comparing their cerebral oximetry values with cerebrovascular disease (CVD). Methods: Between January and May 2014, 40 patients who underwent isolated CABG were included in the study. Cerebral oximetry probes were placed prior to induction of anesthesia. Cerebral oximetry values were recorded before induction, in the pump (cardiopulmonary bypass) inlet period, in the post-clamp period, in the pump outlet period, and in the intensive care unit and neurological complications. Results: There was no difference between the groups in terms of demographic data and routine follow-up parameters. Intraoperative surgical data and early postoperative results were similar in both groups. When comparing the groups, there were no statistically significant results in cerebral oximetry values and CVD development. Only one patient in group 2 had postoperative CVD and this patient was discharged from the hospital with right hemiplegia. Mean arterial pressure (MAP)levels were significantly higher in Group 2 (P<0.05). Conclusion: The follow-up of cerebral perfusion with a method like near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) will ensure that MAP is adjusted with interventions that will be made according to changes in NIRS. Thus, it will be possible to avoid unnecessary medication and flow-rate increase with cerebral oxygen saturation (rSO2) follow-up.

Avaliação da resposta hemodinâmica cerebral através da monitorização com a espectroscopia próxima ao infravermelho (NIRS) em pacientes com doença aterosclerótica da artéria carótida submetidos a endarterectomia / Evaluation of the brain hemodynamic response by means of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) monitoring in patients with atherosclerotic carotid disease undergoing endarterectomy

Resumo Contexto A espectroscopia próxima ao infravermelho (NIRS) é uma técnica não invasiva que detecta as alterações hemodinâmicas teciduais. A NIRS pode monitorar de forma contínua as informações fisiológicas vasculares intracranianas. Por ser portátil, ela pode ser utilizada à beira do leito e no centro cirúrgico. Objetivos Avaliar as possíveis alterações hemodinâmicas cerebrais durante a endarterectomia em pacientes com estenoses maiores que 70% utilizando NIRS. Métodos Foram avaliados 10 voluntários portadores de doença carotídea aterosclerótica com indicação de endarterectomia. Após a seleção dos pacientes, que responderam um questionário com dados epidemiológicos e informações referentes à presença de comorbidades, a doença foi confirmada por métodos diagnósticos. No procedimento cirúrgico, utilizou-se a NIRS para monitorização. Foram avaliadas as variáveis saturação de oxigênio (SatO2), hemoglobina total (HbT), hemoglobina reduzida (HbR) e hemoglobina oxigenada (HbO) nos três tempos cirúrgicos pré-, trans e pós-clampeamento carotídeo. Utilizou-se p < 0,05 como nível de significância. Resultados A avaliação dos resultados obtidos por meio das medidas registradas pela NIRS permite afirmar que HbR e SatO2 variam ao longo das etapas da cirurgia. Durante o clampeamento, a variável HbR mostra valores mais elevados que nas outras duas etapas da cirurgia. Por outro lado, a variável SatO2 mostra redução durante o clampeamento. Conclusões A NIRS é um método viável e aplicável de monitorização intracerebral, não invasivo e em tempo real, durante a endarterectomia carotídea, capaz de medir de forma precisa as mudanças das condições hemodinâmicas capilares intracerebrais.

Abstract Backgrounds Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is non-invasive technique that detects hemodynamic alterations in tissues. It enables continuous monitoring of intracerebral vascular physiologic information. Due to its portable nature, NIRS may be used bedside or in the operating room. Objectives To evaluate use of NIRS for intraoperative monitoring of the brain hemodynamic response, during carotid endarterectomy. Methods 10 patients with atherosclerotic carotid disease scheduled for endarterectomy were evaluated. After patients had been selected, they answered a questionnaire on epidemiological data and information about comorbidities and then carotid disease was confirmed with diagnostic methods. NRIS monitoring was used during the surgical procedure. The variables analyzed before, during and after carotid clamping were oxygen saturation (SatO2), total hemoglobin (THb), reduced hemoglobin (RHb), and oxyhemoglobin (OHb). A p value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results The results obtained from NIRS show that RHb and SatO2 vary during the different stages of surgery. RHb levels are higher during clamping, when compared with the other two surgical stages. On the other hand, SatO2 is lower during clamping. Conclusions During carotid endarterectomy, NIRS is a feasible, real-time, and non-invasive intracranial monitoring method that accurately and reliably measures the changes in intracerebral capillary hemodynamic conditions.

Aplicação da espectroscopia de infravermelho próximo e calibração multivariada para previsão do teor de lipídios em queijos de coalho comercializados em Pernambuco / Application of next infrared spectroscopy and multivariate calibration for forecasting the content of lipid in “coalho” cheese marketing in Pernambuco

O queijo de coalho é um dos produtos lácteos mais tradicionais produzidos no Nordeste brasileiro. A Espectroscopia na Região do Infravermelho próximo (NIRS) tem sido utilizada em análise de alimentos para a determinação de vários constituintes. O objetivo deste trabalho foi prever o teor de lipídios utilizando NIRS associada à calibração multivariada em queijos de coalho comercializados em Pernambuco. Para tanto, 80 amostras de queijo de coalho foram submetidas às análises de referência (Gerber para lipídios) e espectroscópicas. Foi possível verificar que o Erro Médio Quadrático de Previsão para lipídios de 1,39%, evidenciando que o modelo PLS obteve resultados de previsão satisfatórios, embora para outras variedades de queijos, apresentaram-se significativamente menores.

Near-infrared spectroscopy parameters in patients undergoing continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration / Espectroscopia no infravermelho próximo em pacientes sob hemodiafiltração venovenosa contínua

ABSTRACT Objective To investigate the impacts of continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration on the microcirculation in patients with acute kidney injury. Methods A prospective observational pilot study conducted in a 40-bed, open clinical-surgical intensive care unit of a private tertiary care hospital located in the city of São Paulo (SP), Brazil. Microcirculation was assessed using near-infrared spectroscopy by means of a 15mm probe placed over the thenar eminence. Vascular occlusion test was performed on the forearm to be submitted to near-infrared spectroscopy by inflation of a sphygmomanometer cuff to 30mmHg higher than the systolic arterial pressure. The primary endpoint was the assessment of near-infrared spectroscopy-derived parameters immediately before, 1, 4 and 24 hours after the initiation of continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration. Results Nine patients were included in this pilot study over a period of 2 months. Minimum tissue oxygen saturation measured during the vascular occlusion test was the only near-infrared spectroscopy-derived parameter to differed over the time (decrease compared to baseline values up to 24 hours after initiation of continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration). Conclusion The impacts of microcirculatory dysfunction on clinical outcomes of patients undergoing to continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration need to be further investigated.

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar o impacto da hemodiafiltração venovenosa contínua na microcirculação de pacientes com lesão renal aguda. Métodos Estudo piloto, prospectivo e observacional conduzido em uma unidade de terapia intensiva clínico-cirúrgica aberta, com 40 leitos, localizada em um hospital terciário, privado, na cidade de São Paulo (SP), Brasil. A microcirculação foi avaliada empregando-se a espectroscopia no infravermelho próximo, por meio de uma sonda de 15mm posicionada sobre a eminência tenar. O teste de oclusão vascular foi realizado no antebraço a ser submetido à espectroscopia no infravermelho próximo, inflando-se o manguito de um esfigmomanômetro a um valor 30mmHg acima da pressão arterial sistólica. O desfecho primário foi a avaliação dos parâmetros derivados por espectroscopia no infravermelho próximo imediatamente antes, 1, 4 e 24 horas após o início da hemodiafiltração venovenosa contínua. Resultados Foram incluídos nove pacientes neste estudo piloto ao longo de 2 meses. A saturação de oxigênio tecidual mínima mensurada durante o teste de oclusão vascular foi o único parâmetro derivado por espectroscopia no infravermelho próximo que diferiu ao longo do tempo, com queda em relação aos valores iniciais nas primeiras 24 horas após o início da hemodiafiltração venovenosa contínua. Conclusão A influência da disfunção microcirculatória sobre os desfechos clínicos de pacientes submetidos à hemodiafiltração venovenosa contínua precisa ser melhor investigada.

Effects of cerebral oxygen changes during coronary bypass surgery on postoperative cognitive dysfunction in elderly patients: a pilot study / Efeitos das alterações no oxigênio cerebral durante cirurgia de revascularização do miocárdio sobre a disfunção cognitiva no pós-operatório em pacientes idosos: estudo piloto

Abstract Background and objectives: Postoperative cognitive dysfunction is common after cardiac surgery. Adequate cerebral perfusion is essential and near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) can measure cerebral oxygenation. Aim of this study is to compare incidence of early and late postoperative cognitive dysfunction in elderly patients treated with conventional or near infrared spectroscopy monitoring. Methods: Patients undergoing coronary surgery above 60 years, were included and randomized to 2 groups; control and NIRS groups. Peroperative management was NIRS guided in GN; and with conventional approach in control group. Test battery was performed before surgery, at first week and 3rd month postoperatively. The battery comprised clock drawing, memory, word list generation, digit spam and visuospatial skills subtests. Postoperative cognitive dysfunction was defined as drop of 1 SD (standard deviation) from baseline on two or more tests. Mann-Whitney U test was used for comparison of quantitative measurements; Chi-square exact test to compare quantitative data. Results: Twenty-one patients in control group and 19 in NIRS group completed study. Demographic and operative data were similar. At first week postoperative cognitive dysfunction were present in 9 (45%) and 7 (41%) of patients in control group and NIRS group respectively. At third month 10 patients (50%) were assessed as postoperative cognitive dysfunction; incidence was 4 (24%) in NIRS group (p:0.055). Early and late postoperative cognitive dysfunction group had significantly longer ICU stay (1.74 + 0.56 vs. 2.94 + 0.95; p < 0.001; 1.91 + 0.7 vs. 2.79 + 1.05; p < 0.01) and longer hospital stay (9.19 + 2.8 vs. 11.88 + 1.7; p < 0.01; 9.48 + 2.6 vs. 11.36 + 2.4; p < 0.05). Conclusion: In this pilot study conventional monitoring and near infrared spectroscopy resulted in similar rates of early postoperative cognitive dysfunction. Late cognitive dysfunction tended to ameliorate with near infrared spectroscopy. Early and late cognitive declines were associated with prolonged ICU and hospital stays.

Resumo Justificativa e objetivos: A disfunção cognitiva no pós-operatório é comum após cirurgia cardíaca. A perfusão cerebral adequada é essencial e a espectroscopia no infravermelho próximo (NIRS) pode medir a oxigenação cerebral. O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar a incidência de disfunção cognitiva no pós-operatório, precoce e tardio, em pacientes idosos tratados com monitoração convencional ou espectroscopia no infravermelho próximo. Métodos: Os pacientes submetidos à cirurgia coronariana, acima de 60 anos, foram incluídos e randomicamente alocados em dois grupos: grupo controle e grupo NIRS. O manejo dos pacientes no período perioperatório foi feito com NIRS no grupo NH e com abordagem convencional no grupo controle A bateria de testes foi feita antes da cirurgia, na primeira semana e no terceiro mês de pós-operatório. A bateria incluiu o desenho do relógio, a memória, a geração de uma lista de palavras, a sequência de dígitos e subtestes que exigem habilidades visuoespaciais.Disfunção cognitiva no pós-operatório foi definida como queda de um DP (desvio-padrão) da fase basal em dois ou mais testes. O teste U de Mann Whitney foi usado para comparação de medidas quantitativa e o teste exato do qui-quadrado para comparar dados quantitativos. Resultados: Vinte e um pacientes do grupo controle e 19 do grupo NIRS concluíram o estudo. Os dados demográficos e operacionais foram semelhantes. Na primeira semana, nove pacientes (45%) do GC e sete pacientes (41%) do grupo NIRS apresentaram disfunção cognitiva no pós-operatório. No terceiro mês, 10 pacientes (50%) foram avaliados como disfunção cognitiva no pós-operatório; a incidência foi de quatro (24%) no grupo NIRS (p = 0,055). O grupo que apresentou disfunção cognitiva no pós-operatório precoce e tardio teve uma permanência significativamente maior na UTI (1,74 + 0,56 vs. 2,94 + 0,95; p < 0,001; 1,91 + 0,7 vs. 2,79 + 1,05; p < 0,01) e permanência hospitalar mais longa (9,19 + 2,8 vs. 11,88 + 1,7; p < 0,01; 9,48 + 2,6 vs. 11,36 + 2,4; p < 0,05). Conclusão: Neste estudo piloto, a monitoração convencional e a espectroscopia no infravermelho próximo resultaram em taxas semelhantes de disfunção cognitiva no pós-operatório precoce. A disfunção cognitiva tardia tende a melhorar com espectroscopia no infravermelho próximo. Os declínios cognitivos precoces e tardios foram associados a internações prolongadas tanto em UTI quanto hospitalares.

Quantification of anti-nutritional factors and their correlations with protein and oil in soybeans

ABSTRACT Soybeans contain about 30% carbohydrate, mainly consisting of non-starch polysaccharides (NSP) and oligosaccharides. NSP are not hydrolyzed in the gastrointestinal tract of monogastric animals. These NSP negatively affect the development of these animals, especially the soluble fraction. This work aimed to establish a method to quantify NSP in soybeans, using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and to estimate correlations between NSP, oligosaccharides, protein and oil. Sucrose, raffinose + stachyose, soluble and insoluble NSP contents were determined by HPLC. Oil and protein contents were determined by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). The soluble PNAs content showed no significant correlation with protein, oil, sucrose and raffinose + stachyose contents, but oligosaccharides showed a negative correlation with protein content. These findings open up the possibility of developing cultivars with low soluble NSP content, aiming to develop feed for monogastric animals.

Super-selective robot-assisted partial nephrectomy using near-infrared flurorescence versus early-unclamping of the renal artery: results of a prospective matched-pair analysis

ABSTRACT Introduction Super-selective clamping of tumor-specific segmental arteries was developed to eliminate ischemia of the remnant kidney while limiting hemorrhage during partial nephrectomy. The objective is to evaluate the benefice of super-selective clamping on renal functional outcome, compared to early-unclamping of the renal artery. Materials and Methods From March 2015 to July 2016, data from 30 patients undergoing super-selective robot-assisted PN (RAPN) for a solitary tumor by a single surgeon were prospectively collected. Tumor devascularization was assessed using indocyanine green near-infrared fluorescence. A matched-pair analysis with a retrospective cohort undergoing early-unclamping was conducted, adjusting on tumor complexity and preoperative eGFR. Perioperative, oncologic and functional outcomes using DMSA-renal scintigraphy were assessed. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify predictors of postoperative renal function and de novo chronic kidney disease (CKD). Results Super-selective RAPN was successful in 23/30 patients (76.7%), 5 requiring secondary main artery clamping due to persistent tumor fluorescence. Matched-pair analysis showed similar operating time, blood loss, positives margins and complication rates. Super-selective clamping was associated with an improved eGFR variation at discharge (p=0.002), 1-month (p=0.01) and 6-month post-op (-2%vs-16% p=0.001). It also led to a better relative function on scintigraphy (46%vs40% p=0.04) and homolateral eGFR (p=0.04), and fewer upstaging to CKD stage ≥3 (p=0.03). On multivariate analysis, super-selective clamping was a predictor of postoperative renal function. Conclusion Super-selective RAPN leads to an improved preservation of renal function and a reduced risk of de novo CKD stage≥3, while keeping the benefit of main artery clamping on perioperative outcomes.

¿Es útil la monitorización con espectroscopia de infrarojo cercano en la cirugía artroscópica de hombro con anestesia regional y sedación? / Is near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) monitoring useful for patients undergoing shoulder surgery under regional anaesthesia and sedation?

BACKGROUND: Shoulder surgery in beach chair position is a very common procedure in our daily practice. It has been associated to regional cerebral saturation impairment detected by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) under general anaesthesia. Severe neurological complications were previously reported, even in previously healthy patients. An anaesthetic protocol under regional anaesthesia and biespectral index (BIS) guided sedation seems to be a safer strategy in order to prevent complications. OBJECTIVE: To find out, in a group of patients undergoing shoulder surgery in beach chair position under regional anaesthesia and sedation, the prevalence of cerebral desaturation events detected by NIRS (defined as a decrease ≥ 20% from baseline or absolute value < 55%). MATERIAL AND METHOD: In this descriptive study, 30 patients undergoing shoulder surgery in beach chair position under regional anaesthesia (ultrasound guided interescalene brachial plexus block) and propofol infusion BIS guided sedation were enrolled to assess the prevalence of cerebral desaturation events. The baseline data for regional cerebral oxygen saturation and bispectral index and non invasive blood pressure measured at heart level were taken prior to surgery after beach chair positioning and thereafter all 5 min until discharge. RESULTS: No cerebral desaturation events were detected during this study. CONCLUSIONS: Although monitoring regional cerebral saturation with NIRS detects decreased cerebral perfusion allowing a rapid intervention, we consider it is not essential under this anaesthesia regimen, considering that no cerebral desaturation events were reported.

La cirugía de hombro en posición de sentado constituye un procedimiento frecuente en la práctica diaria. Bajo anestesia general, se ha asociado con caída de la saturación regional cerebral de oxígeno (Src02) detectada por espectrospcopia infraroja (NIRS), reportándose complicaciones neurológicas severas, incluso en pacientes previamente sanos. El empleo de una técnica de anestesia regional más sedación titulada con índice biespectral (BIS) parecería ser una estrategia más segura a fin de evitar dichos eventos. OBJETIVO: Conocer, en pacientes sometidos a artroscopia de hombro en posición de sentado bajo anestesia regional más sedación, la prevalencia de episodios de desaturación cerebral (ECDs) determinada por NIRS (SrcO2 inferior a 55% o disminución del 20% respecto al basal). MATERIAL Y MÉTODO: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo en 30 pacientes sometidos a artroscopía de hombro en posición de sentado bajo anestesia regional (bloqueo interescalénico ecoguiado) más sedación titulada (infusión de propofol guiada por BIS). Se tomaron valores de referencia de Src02, BIS y presión no invasiva a nivel del corazón luego del posicionamiento y, consecutivamente en forma continua para las primeras dos variables y cada 5 minutos hasta el final para la última. Se ocultaron a los anestesiólogos los valores de Src02. RESULTADOS: No se ha detectado ningún EDC en la población estudiada. CONCLUSIÓN: Consideramos que el monitoreo de la perfusión cerebral con tecnología NIRS resulta útil aunque no imprescindible bajo este protocolo anestésico, dada la incidencia casi nula de eventos.

Alimentos procesados como fuente de ácidos grasos trans totales en zonas urbanas de Paraguay / Processed foods as source of total trans fatty acids in urban areas of Paraguay

Los lípidos de los alimentos cumplen un papel fundamental en nutrición humana. Con base en los potenciales efectos perjudiciales para la salud de las dietas altas en ácidos grasos trans (AGT) y la necesidad de contar con información sobre los niveles en alimentos de consumo local, se han investigado el contenido de AGT por espectrometría infrarroja, grasas totales y el porcentaje de AGT con respecto a lípidos totales en algunos alimentos procesados y materia prima grasa comercializados en cuatro ciudades de zonas urbanas del Paraguay. De los 28 tipos de alimentos analizados, el 84,7% contenía ≥0,2 gAGT/porción. Alrededor del 79% superó 5% de AGT totales en el contenido lipídico del alimento, nivel superior al recomendado actualmente por la OMS. En las muestras de materia prima grasa, se encontraron niveles excepcionalmente altos de AGT totales (77,6%) en comparación con los niveles recomendados (5%). Este trabajo presenta los primeros datos sobre el contenido de AGT en alimentos tradicionales de consumo en Paraguay como la chipa1, y destaca la importancia del control de la composición de los alimentos de venta local y sin etiquetado, así como la necesidad de apuntar a la reformulación de estos alimentos, con menores niveles de AGT con base en las recomendaciones nutricionales actuales a nivel mundial para la prevención de enfermedades cardiovasculares.

The food fats play a fundamental role in human nutrition. Based on the known adverse health effects of diets high in trans fatty acids (TFA) and the need for information on levels in food for local consumption, in this work we investigated the content of total lipids and total TFA in some processed foods and fat raw material commercialized in four cities in urban areas of Paraguay. Of the 28 types of foods analyzed, 84.7% contained ≥0.2 g TFA/serving. Approximately 79% exceeded 5% of total TFA in food fat, which is higher than those levelscurrently recommended by the WHO. In raw material fat samples, exceptionally high levels of total TFA were found (77.6%) compared to the recommended level (5%). This paper presents the first data on the content of TFA in traditional foods of consumption in Paraguay, as “chipa”, and highlights the importance of the control of the composition of the foods of local sale and without labeling, as well as the need to point to the reformulation of these foods, with lower levels of trans fatty acids based on the current nutritional recommendations worldwide for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

Influence of Photoinitiator System on Physical-Chemical Properties of Experimental Self-Adhesive Composites

Abstract The aim of this study was to determine the influence of photoinitiator systems on physical-chemical properties of flowable composites. Conventional (CFC), composed by bisphenol-glycidyl dimethacrylate (BisGMA)+triethyleneglycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA), and self-adhesive (SAFC), composed by BisGMA+TEDGMA+bis{2-(methacryloyloxy) ethyl} phosphate (2MP), flowable composites were developed. Five photoinitiator systems were tested: camphorquinone (CQ), ethyl-4-dimethylaminobenzoate (EDMAB), diphenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphine oxide (TPO), phenylbis (2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphine oxide (BAPO), CQ+EDMAB+TPO and CQ+EDMAB+BAPO. A two-peak LED was used; degree of conversion (DC) and the maximum polymerization rate (RPmax) were determined by near infrared spectroscopy. For the yellowing degree a spectrophotometer was used. Water sorption (Wsp) was obtained after 30 days of water storage (n=5). Data were submitted to two-way analysis of variance and Tukey’s test (a=0.05). BAPO presented the highest DC and RPmax values for both series. SAFCs presented lower DC and RPmax for CQ+EDMAB-based materials. Greater yellowing was observed for SAFCs compared with CFCs, except for BAPO. Greater Wsp was observed for SAFCs compared with CFCs. The photoinitiator did not influence Wsp for CFCs, but TPO and BAPO presented the highest Wsp in SAFCs. The photoinitiator system affected differently the physical-chemical properties of CFCs and SAFCs.

Resumo O objetivo do estudo foi determinar a influência do sistema fotoiniciador sobre as propriedades físico-químicas de compósitos fluidos. Os compósitos convencionais foram compostos por bisfenol-glicidil dimetacrilato (BisGMA) + trietilenoglicol dimetacrilato (TEGDMA), e os autoadesivos, apresentavam BisGMA +TEGDMA+ Bis2(metacriloiloxi)etil fosfato (2 MP). Cinco sistemas fotoiniciadores foram testados: canforquinona + etil-4- dimetilamino benzoato (CQ+EDMAB), óxido mono-alquil fosfínico (TPO) e óxido bis-alquil fosfínico (BAPO), CQ+EDMAB+TPO e CQ+EDMAB+BAPO. LED de amplo espectro foi usado; o grau de conversão (GC) e a taxa de polimerização (TP) foram determinados por espectroscopia próximo ao infravermelho; o grau de amarelo foi mensurado por um espectrofotômetro e absorção de água foi obtida após 30 dias de armazenamento em água (n=5). Os dados foram submetidos a análise de variância de dois fatores e teste de Tukey (?=0,05). BAPO apresentou os maiores valores de GC e TP nos compósitos convencionais e autoadesivos. Compósitos autoadesivos apresentaram menor GC e TP quando CQ+EDMAB foi usado. Maior amarelecimento foi observado nos compósitos autoadesivos em relação aos convencionais, exceto para BAPO. Compósitos autoadesivos promoveram maior absorção de água. Não houve influência dos fotoiniciadores nos compósitos convencionais, no entanto TPO e BAPO apresentaram os maiores valores de absorção de água nos compósitos autoadesivos. Os sistemas fotoiniciadores influenciaram de maneira diferente as propriedades físico-químicas dos compósitos convencionais e autoadesivos.

A practical approach to assess leg muscle oxygenation during ramp-incremental cycle ergometry in heart failure

Heart failure is characterized by the inability of the cardiovascular system to maintain oxygen (O2) delivery (i.e., muscle blood flow in non-hypoxemic patients) to meet O2 demands. The resulting increase in fractional O2 extraction can be non-invasively tracked by deoxygenated hemoglobin concentration (deoxi-Hb) as measured by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). We aimed to establish a simplified approach to extract deoxi-Hb-based indices of impaired muscle O2 delivery during rapidly-incrementing exercise in heart failure. We continuously probed the right vastus lateralis muscle with continuous-wave NIRS during a ramp-incremental cardiopulmonary exercise test in 10 patients (left ventricular ejection fraction <35%) and 10 age-matched healthy males. Deoxi-Hb is reported as % of total response (onset to peak exercise) in relation to work rate. Patients showed lower maximum exercise capacity and O2 uptake-work rate than controls (P<0.05). The deoxi-Hb response profile as a function of work rate was S-shaped in all subjects, i.e., it presented three distinct phases. Increased muscle deoxygenation in patients compared to controls was demonstrated by: i) a steeper mid-exercise deoxi-Hb-work rate slope (2.2±1.3 vs 1.0±0.3% peak/W, respectively; P<0.05), and ii) late-exercise increase in deoxi-Hb, which contrasted with stable or decreasing deoxi-Hb in all controls. Steeper deoxi-Hb-work rate slope was associated with lower peak work rate in patients (r=-0.73; P=0.01). This simplified approach to deoxi-Hb interpretation might prove useful in clinical settings to quantify impairments in O2 delivery by NIRS during ramp-incremental exercise in individual heart failure patients.

Effects of carbon dioxide insufflation on regional cerebral oxygenation during laparoscopic surgery in children: a prospective study / Efeitos da insuflação de dióxido de carbono sobre a oxigenação cerebral regional durante cirurgia laparoscópica em crianças: um estudo prospectivo

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Laparoscopic surgery has become a popular surgical tool when compared to traditional open surgery. There are limited data on pediatric patients regarding whether pneumoperitoneum affects cerebral oxygenation although end-tidal CO2 concentration remains normal. Therefore, this study was designed to evaluate the changes of cerebral oxygen saturation using near-infrared spectroscope during laparoscopic surgery in children. METHODS: The study comprised forty children who were scheduled for laparoscopic (Group L, n = 20) or open (Group O, n = 20) appendectomy. Hemodynamic variables, right and left regional cerebral oxygen saturation (RrSO2 and LrSO2), fraction of inspired oxygen, end-tidal carbon dioxide pressure (PETCO2), peak inspiratory pressure (Ppeak), respiratory minute volume, inspiratory and end-tidal concentrations of sevoflurane and body temperature were recorded. All parameters were recorded after anesthesia induction and before start of surgery (T0, baseline), 15 min after start of surgery (T1), 30 min after start of surgery (T2), 45 min after start of surgery (T3), 60 min after start of surgery (T4) and end of the surgery (T5). RESULTS: There were progressive decreases in both RrSO2 and LrSO2 levels in both groups, which were not statistically significant at T1, T2, T3, T4. The RrSO2 levels of Group L at T5 were significantly lower than that of Group O. One patient in Group L had an rSO2 value <80% of the baseline value. CONCLUSIONS: Carbon dioxide insufflation during pneumoperitoneum in pediatric patients may not affect cerebral oxygenation under laparoscopic surgery.

RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: A cirurgia laparoscópica se tornou uma ferramenta cirúrgica popular em comparação com a cirurgia aberta tradicional. Há poucos dados sobre pacientes pediátricos no que se refere ao pneumoperitônio afetar a oxigenação cerebral enquanto a concentração de CO2 no fim da expiração continua normal. Portanto, este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar as alterações da saturação de oxigênio cerebral com espectroscopia de infravermelho próximo durante cirurgia laparoscópica em crianças. MÉTODOS: O estudo recrutou 40 crianças programadas para apendicectomia laparoscópica (Grupo L, n = 20) ou aberta (Grupo A, n = 20). Variáveis hemodinâmicas, saturação de oxigênio cerebral regional direita e esquerda (RrSO2 e LrSO2), fração inspirada de oxigênio, pressão expiratória final de dióxido de carbono (PETCO2), pico de pressão inspiratória (Ppico), volume minuto respiratório, concentrações de sevoflurano inspirado e expirado e temperatura corporal foram registrados. Todos os parâmetros foram registrados após a indução da anestesia e antes do início da cirurgia (T0, basal), 15 minutos após o início da cirurgia (T1), 30 minutos após o início da cirurgia (T2), 45 minutos após o início da cirurgia (T3), 60 minutos após o início da cirurgia (T4) e no fim da cirurgia (T5). RESULTADOS: Houve diminuição progressiva em ambos os níveis de RrSO2 e LrSO2 nos dois grupos, mas não foi estatisticamente significativa em T1, T2, T3, T4. Os níveis de RrSO2 do Grupo L em T5 foram significativamente menores do que os do Grupo A. Um paciente do Grupo L apresentou um valor rSO2 < 80% do valor basal. CONCLUSÕES: A insuflação de dióxido de carbono durante o pneumoperitônio em pacientes pediátricos pode não afetar a oxigenação cerebral em cirurgia laparoscópica.

Avaliação da saturação tecidual de oxigênio durante o sintoma claudicante em pacientes com doença arterial periférica / Tissue oxygen saturation assessment during claudication symptoms in patients with peripheral arterial disease

O relato de sintoma claudicante em pacientes com doença arterial periférica é utilizado como modulador da intensidade de exercício físico para o tratamento clínico, entretanto os valores de oxigenação tecidual nesse momento são desconhecidos. Objetivo Descrever o suprimento tecidual de oxigênio por meio da espectroscopia de luz próxima ao infravermelho ou Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) nos momentos em que o paciente relata sintoma claudicante inicial e máximo em testes de exercício. Métodos Nove pacientes, oito homens com 65,63 ± 6,02 anos de idade, previamente diagnosticados com doença arterial periférica, realizaram teste de exercício de carga constante e de carga incremental com monitorização do nível de oxigenação tecidual através da NIRS. As saturações de oxigênio obtidas no momento em que o paciente relata sintoma claudicante inicial e no momento em que relata sintoma claudicante máximo foram comparadas com os valores de saturação da manobra de oclusão arterial por meio do intervalo de confiança de 95% da diferença. Resultados Verificou-se que os valores de saturação nos momentos de sintoma claudicante inicial e máximo são estatisticamente distintos quando comparados àqueles obtidos na manobra de oclusão arterial, entretanto, através da análise percentual do quão distante esses valores encontram-se é possível observar que, do ponto de vista clínico, eles estão próximos. Conclusões A saturação no momento em que o paciente relata sintomas claudicantes inicial e máximo é bastante próxima do valor de saturação no momento de oclusão e do ponto de vista clínico o relato subjetivo de sintoma do paciente é adequado como parâmetro para a prescrição do exercício físico.

The time at which claudication symptoms are reported is used to modulate exercise intensity in clinical treatment of patients with peripheral arterial disease, but tissue oxygenation values at that point are unknown. Objective To describe tissue oxygen supply measured using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) when patients report initial and maximum claudication symptoms during exercise tests. Methods Nine patients (eight men) aged 65.63 ± 6.02 years and previously diagnosed with peripheral arterial disease performed constant load exercise testing and incremental load exercise testing while tissue oxygenation levels were monitored by NIRS. Oxygen saturation values at the times at which each patient reported initial onset of claudication symptoms and maximum claudication symptoms were compared with values obtained during the arterial occlusion maneuver, using the 95% confidence interval of the difference. Results It was found that saturation values at the time of both initial and maximum claudication symptoms were statistically different from saturation during the arterial occlusion maneuver, but on the basis of percentage analysis they were similar from a clinical point of view. Conclusions Oxygen saturations at the time patients report initial and maximum claudication symptoms are very close to saturations during arterial occlusion. From a clinical perspective, subjective patient report of symptoms is an appropriate parameter on which to base exercise prescription.

Near-infrared spectroscopy as an auxiliary tool in the study of child development / Espectroscopia de luz próxima ao infravermelho como ferramenta auxiliar no estudo do desenvolvimento infantil

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the applicability of Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) for cortical hemodynamic assessment tool as an aid in the study of child development. DATA SOURCE: Search was conducted in the PubMed and Lilacs databases using the following keywords: ''psychomotor performance/child development/growth and development/neurodevelopment/spectroscopy/near-infrared'' and their equivalents in Portuguese and Spanish. The review was performed according to criteria established by Cochrane and search was limited to 2003 to 2013. English, Portuguese and Spanish were included in the search. DATA SYNTHESIS: Of the 484 articles, 19 were selected: 17 cross-sectional and two longitudinal studies, published in non-Brazilian journals. The analyzed articles were grouped in functional and non-functional studies of child development. Functional studies addressed the object processing, social skills development, language and cognitive development. Non-functional studies discussed the relationship between cerebral oxygen saturation and neurological outcomes, and the comparison between the cortical hemodynamic response of preterm and term newborns. CONCLUSIONS: NIRS has become an increasingly feasible alternative and a potentially useful technique for studying functional activity of the infant brain.

OBJETIVO: Investigar a aplicabilidade da espectroscopia de luz próxima ao infravermelho (NIRS) para avaliação da hemodinâmica cortical como ferramenta auxiliar no estudo do desenvolvimento infantil. FONTES DE DADOS: Revisão integrativa de literatura feita nas bases de dados PubMed e Lilacs, a partir da combinação das palavras-chave: "psychomotor performance/child development/growth and development/neurodevelopment/NIRS/spectroscopy/near-infrared" e seus correspondentes em português e espanhol. A pesquisa seguiu protocolo adaptado dos critérios estabelecidos pela Cochrane e teve como limite temporal de 2003 a 2013. Foram incluídas publicações nos idiomas inglês, português e espanhol. SÍNTESE DOS DADOS: Foram localizados 484 artigos, dos quais 19 foram selecionados, 17 transversais e dois longitudinais, todos publicados em periódicos estrangeiros. A análise dos artigos permitiu agrupá-los, quanto à sua abordagem, em estudos funcionais e estudos não funcionais do desenvolvimento infantil. Os estudos funcionais abordaram o processamento de objetos e o desenvolvimento de habilidades sociais, da linguagem e cognitivo. Os estudos não funcionais discutiram a relação entre a saturação de oxigênio cerebral e o desfecho neurológico e a comparação entre a resposta hemodinâmica cortical de recém-nascidos prematuros e a termo. CONCLUSÕES: A NIRS se torna, cada vez mais, uma opção viável e uma técnica potencialmente útil para estudos de atividade funcional do cérebro infantil.

The use of halloysite clay and carboxyl-functionalised multi-walled carbon nanotubes for recombinant LipL32 antigen delivery enhanced the IgG response

We studied the feasibility of using halloysite clay nanotubes (HNTs) and carboxyl-functionalised multi-walled carbon nanotubes (COOH-MWCNTs) as antigen carriers to improve immune responses against a recombinant LipL32 protein (rLipL32). Immunisation using the HNTs or COOH-MWCNTs significantly increased the rLipL32-specific IgG antibody titres (p < 0.05) of Golden Syrian hamsters. None of the vaccines tested conferred protection against a challenge using a virulent Leptospira interrogans strain. These results demonstrated that nanotubes can be used as antigen carriers for delivery in hosts and the induction of a humoral immune response against purified leptospiral antigens used in subunit vaccine preparations.

Experimental infection with the Toxoplasma gondii ME-49 strain in the Brazilian BR-1 mini pig is a suitable animal model for human toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasma gondii causes toxoplasmosis, a worldwide disease. Experimentation with pigs is necessary for the development of new therapeutic approaches to human diseases. BR-1 mini pigs were intramuscularly infected with T. gondii with tachyzoites (RH strain) or orally infected with cysts (ME-49 strain). Haematology and serum biochemistry were analysed and buffy coat cells were inoculated in mice to determine tachyzoite circulation. No alterations were observed in erythrocyte and platelet values; however, band neutrophils increased seven days after infection with ME-49. Serology of the mice inoculated with pig blood leucocytes revealed circulating ME-49 or RH strain tachyzoites in the pigs' peripheral blood at two and seven or nine days post-infection. The tachyzoites were also directly observed in blood smears from the infected pigs outside and inside leucocytes for longer periods. Alanine-aminotransferase was high at days 21 and 32 in the RH infected pigs. After 90 days, the pigs were euthanised and their tissue samples were processed and inoculated into mice. The mice serology revealed the presence of parasites in the hearts, ileums and mesenteric lymph nodes of the pigs. Additionally, cysts in the mice were only observed after pig heart tissue inoculation. The infected pigs presented similar human outcomes with relatively low pathogenicity and the BR-1 mini pig model infected with ME-49 is suitable to monitor experimental toxoplasmosis.