Optimization and validation of a micro-QuEChERS method for phthalates detection in small samples of cetacean blubber.

In this study, an innovative method was developed to detect and quantify phthalates in fresh cetacean blubber. An adaptation of the ammonium formate QuEChERS method was used and adapted as a micro-extraction for small quantities of samples. Significantly, this technique utilized minimal quantities of reagents and salts, with the additional implementation of rigorous Quality Assurance/Quality Control protocols to further reduce background contamination. To ensure the reliability of this method, comprehensive validation procedures were conducted, with a specific focus on two widely studied cetacean species: the common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) and the short-finned pilot whale (Globicephala macrorhynchus). Determination coefficients (R2) for matrix-matched calibration were >0.93 with limits of quantifications (LOQ) of the method in the range of 5-10 ng/g. Mean recovery values were between 40 and 100 %. This novel methodology holds particular relevance for environmental research studies, offering the capability to detect emerging contaminants with minimal sample requirements. This aspect is particularly valuable in investigations that involve free-ranging animals and rely on biopsy sampling. It allows for the assessment of contaminant levels in healthy individuals within wild populations, enhancing our understanding of ecological impacts and potential conservation measures.•A micro-extraction adaptation of the ammonium formate QuEChERS method was developed and applied to a small quantity of fresh cetacean blubber to detect phthalates.•Small quantities of reagents and salts were used, and additional Quality Assurance/ Quality Control procedures were taken to further minimize background contamination.•Method validation was carried out for two cosmopolitan and extensively studied cetacean species: the common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) and the short-finned pilot whale (Globicephala macrorhynchus).

Fluctuating asymmetry in third molar agenesis as an aid to estimate socioeconomic status.

Traditionally, dental identification techniques are used to establish identity or assist in reconstructing an individual's biological profile. However, other aspects of identity, namely socioeconomic status (SES), can be estimated through teeth. This work aims to evaluate the influence of SES on third molar agenesis in a Portuguese population. X-rays from 448 subjects (223 belonging to a high and 225 to a low socioeconomic status) were assessed and demographic data (age, sex) and dental history were registered. Frequencies and associations between the variables were analyzed using the chi-square test. For each group, differences between third molar agenesis were studied using the Wilcoxon test. The significance level was 5%. X-rays displaying at least one agenesis were more common in females (in both SES groups). Differences between socioeconomic status were found in female subjects' upper right and lower left third molars, with a higher frequency of agenesis in the lower SES group. Agenesis of lower third molars displayed fluctuant asymmetry in both groups, whereas agenesis of upper third molars was also present in the lower SES group. These results suggest that socioeconomic status can affect third molar agenesis prevalence, and fluctuant asymmetry seems more prevalent in the lower SES, as it affects all third molars.

Microplastic ingestion and plastic additive detection in pelagic squid and fish: Implications for bioindicators and plastic tracers in open oceanic food webs.

The ubiquitous presence of microplastics (MPs) in the ocean represents a potential threat to marine organisms, with poorly understood long-term adverse effects, including exposure to plastic additives. The present study investigated the ingestion of MPs in two epipelagic fish species (Trachurus picturatus and Scomber colias) and three pelagic squid species (Loligo vulgaris, Ommastrephes caroli and Sthenoteuthis pteropus) from an open oceanic region of the Northeast Atlantic. Seven phthalate esters (PAEs) were also analysed in the organisms' tissue, and the potential correlation between PAEs concentrations and ingested MPs was investigated. Seventy-two fish and 20 squid specimens were collected and analysed. MPs were found in the digestive tract of all species and in the squid species' gills and ink sacs. The highest occurrence of MPs was in the stomach of S. colias (85 %) and the lowest in the stomach and ink sac of O. caroli and L. vulgaris (12 %). Most of the particles identified (>90 %) were fibres. Among all the ecological and biological factors considered (dietary preferences, season, body size, total weight, liver weight, hepatosomatic index and gastrosomatic index), only gastrosomatic index (GSI) and season were significant predictors of MPs ingestion in fish species, with a greater likelihood of ingestion in the cold season and in specimens with higher GSI values (i.e. higher feeding intensity). Four PAEs (DEP, DIBP, BBP, DEHP) were detected in all the species analysed, with average ∑PAEs concentrations ranging between 10.31 and 30.86 ng/g (wet weight). DIBP was positively correlated with ingested MPs, suggesting this compound might represent a "plastic tracer". This study looks into the problem of MPs ingestion for pelagic species in an open oceanic region, highlighting the most suitable bioindicators and providing essential insights into the factors that may influence ingestion rates. Additionally, the detection of PAEs in all species indicates the need for further research on the contamination sources, the effects of these chemicals on marine organisms, and the potential risks to human health through seafood consumption.

Genomics reveals the role of admixture in the evolution of structure among sperm whale populations within the Mediterranean Sea.

In oceanic ecosystems, the nature of barriers to gene flow and the processes by which populations may become isolated are different from the terrestrial environment, and less well understood. In this study we investigate a highly mobile species (the sperm whale, Physeter macrocephalus) that is genetically differentiated between an open North Atlantic population and the populations in the Mediterranean Sea. We apply high-resolution single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis to study the nature of barriers to gene flow in this system, assessing the putative boundary into the Mediterranean (Strait of Gibraltar and Alboran Sea region), and including novel analyses on structuring among sperm whale populations within the Mediterranean basin. Our data support a recent founding of the Mediterranean population, around the time of the last glacial maximum, and show concerted historical demographic profiles in both the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. In each region there is evidence for a population decline around the time of the founder event. The largest decline was seen within the Mediterranean Sea where effective population size is substantially lower (especially in the eastern basin). While differentiation is strongest at the Atlantic/Mediterranean boundary, there is also weaker but significant differentiation between the eastern and western basins of the Mediterranean Sea. We propose, however, that the mechanisms are different. While post-founding gene flow was reduced between the Mediterranean and Atlantic populations, within the Mediterranean an important factor differentiating the basins is probably a greater degree of admixture between the western basin and the North Atlantic and some level of isolation between the western and eastern Mediterranean basins. Subdivision within the Mediterranean Sea exacerbates conservation concerns and will require consideration of what distinct impacts may affect populations in the two basins.

Medicines Delivery Proximity Programme (PEMProxi) survey results.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate patients' and community pharmacies' satisfaction towards the Medicines Delivery Proximity Programme (PEMProxi), including patients' level of satisfaction with pharmaceutical services, medication dispensing and delivery, cost, and time saved, community pharmacies' satisfaction with PEMProxi-related information and procedures, contact with the patients, and timings. Additionally, to evaluate patients' and community pharmacies' perception of PEMProxi's advantages and disadvantages. METHODS: Patients and the community pharmacies included in PEMProxi were contacted by telephone to answer a survey. The patient survey included questions regarding their satisfaction level towards PEMProxi, medication dispensing and delivery, and cost and time saved. Patients were also asked to point out the advantages and disadvantages of PEMProxi and give improvement suggestions. The community pharmacy survey included questions regarding satisfaction with entering PEMProxi, related information, procedures, contact with the patients on PEMProxi, and timings. Programme-related advantages, disadvantages and improvement suggestions were also solicited. RESULTS: A total of 101 patients and 49 community pharmacies were included in the analysis. A large majority of patients were very satisfied with PEMProxi (93.1%). The Programme allowed each patient to save on average 30€ and 8 hours per month. More than 95% of the patients reported medication delivery in adequate conditions (n=100), in a timely manner (n=95) and according to the prescription (n=95). Most pharmacies were satisfied or very satisfied with their participation in PEMProxi (63.3%). Nearly half (53.1%) were surprised by its implementation and 98% would be available to participate with more patients if the Programme was extended. CONCLUSIONS: The PEMProxi programme contributed to more convenient and equitable access to medications by chronic patients, thus avoiding unnecessary trips to the hospital, saving them precious time and money.

Assessing microplastic exposure of the Critically Endangered Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus) on a remote oceanic island.

Microplastics (<5 mm) are a ubiquitous marine pollutant which are highly bioavailable to marine organisms across all trophic levels. Marine predators are especially vulnerable to microplastic pollution through direct and indirect ingestion (e.g., trophic transfer) due to their high trophic position. In particular, oceanic islands are more susceptible to plastic accumulation, increasing the relative number of microplastics in the environment that are available for consumption. The dynamics of microplastic accumulation in marine predators inhabiting remote islands, however, is sparsely documented. Here we describe microplastic exposure in the Critically Endangered Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus) from the Madeira archipelago (Northeast Atlantic) using scat-based analysis. Microplastics were recovered from 18 scat samples collected between 2014-2021 and were characterized to the polymer level using Fourier-Transform Infrared (u-FTIR) spectroscopy. A total of 390 microplastic particles were recovered, ranging between 0.2-8.6 particles g-1 dry weight (mean 1.84 ± 2.14 particles g-1) consisting mainly of fragments (69 %) of various sizes and polymer composition (e.g., PE, PET, PS). Microplastic prevalence (100 % of samples analysed) was higher than what has been previously recorded using scat-based analysis in other pinniped species. Our results suggest that the levels of microplastic pollution in the coastal food-web in the Madeira archipelago are relatively high, placing higher-trophic level organisms at increased risk of microplastic consumption, including humans. This study provides the first insights into microplastic exposure to Madeira's monk seals that may contribute to future management decisions for the species and their long-term survival.

A novel expert-driven methodology to develop thermal response curves and project habitat thermal suitability for cetaceans under a changing climate.

Over the last decades, global warming has contributed to changes in marine species composition, abundance and distribution, in response to changes in oceanographic conditions such as temperature, acidification, and deoxygenation. Experimentally derived thermal limits, which are known to be related to observed latitudinal ranges, have been used to assess variations in species distribution patterns. However, such experiments cannot be undertaken on free-swimming large marine predators with wide-range distribution, like cetaceans. An alternative approach is to elicit expert's knowledge to derive species' thermal suitability and assess their thermal responses, something that has never been tested in these taxa. We developed and applied a methodology based on expert-derived thermal suitability curves and projected future responses for several species under different climate scenarios. We tested this approach with ten cetacean species currently present in the biogeographic area of Macaronesia (North Atlantic) under Representative Concentration Pathways 2.6, 4.5 and 8.5, until 2050. Overall, increases in annual thermal suitability were found for Balaenoptera edeni, Globicephala macrorhynchus, Mesoplodon densirostris, Physeter macrocephalus, Stenella frontalis, Tursiops truncatus and Ziphius cavirostris. Conversely, our results indicated a decline in thermal suitability for B. physalus, Delphinus delphis, and Grampus griseus. Our study reveals potential responses in cetaceans' thermal suitability, and potentially in other highly mobile and large predators, and it tests this method's applicability, which is a novel application for this purpose and group of species. It aims to be a cost-efficient tool to support conservation managers and practitioners.

Seasonal variation in microplastics and zooplankton abundances and characteristics: The ecological vulnerability of an oceanic island system.

The ingestion of microplastics (MPs - plastic particles <5 mm) by planktivorous organisms represents a significant threat to marine food webs. To investigate how seasonality might affect plastic intake in oceanic islands' ecosystems, relative abundances and composition of MPs and mesozooplankton samples collected off Madeira Island (NE Atlantic) between February 2019 and January 2020 were analysed. MPs were found in all samples, with fibres accounting for 89 % of the particles. MPs and zooplankton mean abundance was 0.262 items/m3 and 18.137 individuals/m3, respectively. Their monthly variations follow the seasonal fluctuation of environmental parameters, such as currents, chlorophyll-a concentration, sea surface temperature and precipitation intensity. A higher MPs/zooplankton ratio was recorded in the warm season (May-Oct), reaching 0.068 items/individual when considering large-sized particles (1000-5000 µm). This is the first study to assess the seasonal variability of MPs in an oceanic island system providing essential information respecting its ecological impact in pelagic environments.

Decent Work and Burnout: A Profile Study With Academic Personnel.

This research explores the relationship between Decent Work (DW) and Burnout in Portuguese and Brazilian academic personnel. We focus on identifying profiles resulting from the relationship between these variables. Seven hundred twenty-seven participants composed the sample (Portuguese = 334; Brazilian = 393), and data were collected online using the Decent Work Questionnaire (DWQ) and the Personal Burnout subscale from the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI). Results of multiple linear regressions showed that two DW dimensions were significant and negatively related to Burnout: Fundamental Principles and Values at Work and Adequate Working Time and Workload. We found four profiles by performing a cluster analysis: Low Decent Work; High Decent Work; and two other profiles with DW deficit in at least one DW dimension: Low Fundamental Principles and Values at Work and Low Adequate working time and workload. Moreover, 71% of the total sample showed some decent work deficit. Differences between Burnout and the DW dimensions were analyzed through a MANOVA. In our sample, considering the broad dimensions of DW, Burnout seems to be mainly dependent on the deficit of aspects related to the quality of treatment and interpersonal relationships at work (e.g., perceptions of fairness, participation, non-discrimination) as well as the balance of the workload and the adequacy of the working hours. Interventions aiming at improvements must focus on those two dimensions.

Determination of phthalic acid esters and di(2-ethylhexyl) adipate in fish and squid using the ammonium formate version of the QuEChERS method combined with gas chromatography mass spectrometry.

In the present study, the ammonium formate version of the QuEChERS method, considered highly advantageous in relation to instrument maintenance and other issues, was applied for the first time to extract a group of twelve phthalic acid esters (PAEs, i.e. dipropyl phthalate, DPP; diisobutyl phthalate, DIBP; dibutyl phthalate, DBP; diisopentyl phthalate, DIPP; di-n-pentyl phthalate, DNPP; dihexyl phthalate, DHP; butyl benzyl phthalate, BBP; dicyclohexyl phthalate, DCHP; di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, DEHP; di-n-octyl phthalate, DNOP; diisononyl phthalate, DINP; and diisodecyl phthalate, DIDP) and one adipate (di(2-ethylhexyl) adipate, DEHA) from two species of fish (Scomber colias and Katsuwonus pelamis) and one of squid (Loligo gahi). The method was validated in terms of linearity, trueness and matrix effects. Determination coefficients (R2) for matrix-matched calibration curves were higher than 0.99 in all cases, being the lowest calibration levels in the range 0.5-10 ng/g. Mean recovery values were between 70 and 117% with relative standard deviation values ≤20%. Matrix effects were soft (between -20 and +20%) for most analytes and matrices, except in squid samples, which was mostly medium with a moderate ion suppression. The analysis of 10 samples of each type showed the presence of DIBP, DBP and DEHP at concentrations up to 44.2 ± 2.1 ng/g of wet weight in some of the samples and species, still not representing concerning values when considering the daily intake of such species of seafood in the human diet (tolerable daily intake -TDI- values were not exceeded). Results demonstrated that the ammonium formate version of the QuEChERS method can be applied with success for the extraction and determination of the selected PAEs and DEHA in fish and squid samples.

Dietary Advice in Hemodialysis Patients: Impact of a Telehealth Approach During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of a telehealth-delivered nutritional intervention via telephone in maintenance hemodialysis (HD) patients during the coronavirus outbreak. METHODS: This was a multicenter, observational, prospective, and longitudinal study of 156 patients undergoing maintenance HD from 15 dialysis units conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic. We assigned patients to receive dietary counseling through a phone call, according to their biochemical and nutritional parameters. Dry weight, intradialytic weight gain percentage (%IDWG), body mass index, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, calcium/phosphorus product, normalized protein catabolic rate, albumin, and hemoglobin were recorded at baseline and 1 month after nutrition counseling. RESULTS: The prevalence of hyperkalemia and hyperphosphatemia decreased significantly after dietary advice. A statistically significant reduction in serum potassium and phosphorus levels was observed in patients receiving counseling for hyperkalemia and hyperphosphatemia. In addition, there was a statistically significant decrease in the prevalence of hypophosphatemia. We also observed a significant decrease in %IDWG, although no statistically significant differences were detected in patients with high %IDWG. The data demonstrated statistically significant differences in potassium and phosphorus values when the person receiving the phone contact was the patient or the caregiver. The main statistically significant differences in hypophosphatemia %IDWG were only observed when contact was made directly with the patient. No differences were observed when the contact was made through nursing homes. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that telehealth-delivered dietary interventions can improve the clinical and nutritional parameters of HD patients. Consequently, this strategy may be effective for promoting continuous nutritional monitoring in these patients, in particular when conducting a face-to-face option is not crucial.

Síndrome DRESS causado por alopurinol y desencadenado por COVID-19 / Allopurinol-induced DRESS syndrome triggered by COVID-19

Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms syndrome (DRESS Syndrome) is caused by many different aetiological factors. We present the case of a 56-year-old woman who started allopurinol treatment about 3 weeks before. She presented with fever, hypotension, tachycardia, generalized maculopapular cutaneous rash, facial edema and axillar, inguinal and cervical enlarged lymph nodes. Complementary diagnostic exams: slight lymphocytosis, eosinophilia, acute renal failure, elevated hepatic enzymes. Swab for SARS-CoV-2 was positive. Serologic tests for another virus were negative. Histopathological analysis was compatible with DRESS syndrome. SARS-CoV-2 could also be taken into account when suspected DRESS syndrome. (AU)

Large-scale movements of common bottlenose dolphins in the Atlantic: dolphins with an international courtyard.

Wide-ranging connectivity patterns of common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) are generally poorly known worldwide and more so within the oceanic archipelagos of Macaronesia in the North East (NE) Atlantic. This study aimed to identify long-range movements between the archipelagos of Macaronesia that lie between 500 and 1,500 km apart, and between Madeira archipelago and the Portuguese continental shelf, through the compilation and comparison of bottlenose dolphin's photo-identification catalogues from different regions: one from Madeira (n = 363 individuals), two from different areas in the Azores (n = 495 and 176), and four from different islands of the Canary Islands (n = 182, 110, 142 and 281), summing up 1791 photographs. An additional comparison was made between the Madeira catalogue and one catalogue from Sagres, on the southwest tip of the Iberian Peninsula (n = 359). Results showed 26 individual matches, mostly between Madeira and the Canary Islands (n = 23), and between Azores and Madeira (n = 3). No matches were found between the Canary Islands and the Azores, nor between Madeira and Sagres. There were no individuals identified in all three archipelagos. The minimum time recorded between sightings in two different archipelagos (≈ 460 km apart) was 62 days. Association patterns revealed that the individuals moving between archipelagos were connected to resident, migrant and transient individuals in Madeira. The higher number of individuals that were re-sighted between Madeira and the Canary Islands can be explained by the relative proximity of these two archipelagos. This study shows the first inter-archipelago movements of bottlenose dolphins in the Macaronesia region, emphasizing the high mobility of this species and supporting the high gene flow described for oceanic dolphins inhabiting the North Atlantic. The dynamics of these long-range movements strongly denotes the need to review marine protected areas established for this species in each archipelago, calling for joint resolutions from three autonomous regions belonging to two EU countries.

Salt Reduction Strategies in Portuguese School Meals, from Pre-School to Secondary Education-The Eat Mediterranean Program.

High sodium (salt) consumption is associated with an increased risk of developing non-communicable diseases. However, in most European countries, Portugal included, sodium intake is still high. This study aimed to assess the sodium content of school meals before and after the Eat Mediterranean (EM) intervention-a community-based program to identify and correct nutritional deviations through the implementation of new school menus and through schools' food handlers training. EM (2015-2017) was developed in 25 schools (pre to secondary education) of two Portuguese Municipalities, reaching students aged 3-21 years old. Samples of the complete meals (soup + main course + bread) from all schools were collected, and nutritional quality and laboratory analysis were performed to determine their nutritional composition, including sodium content. Overall, there was a significant decrease (-23%) in the mean sodium content of the complete school meals, which was mainly achieved by the significant reduction of 34% of sodium content per serving portion of soup. In conclusion, EM had a positive effect on the improvement of the school meals' sodium content, among the participant schools. Furthermore, school setting might be ideal for nutrition literacy interventions among children, for flavors shaping, and for educating towards less salty food acceptance.

The first Portuguese National Health Examination Survey (2015): design, planning and implementation.

BACKGROUND: In Health Examination Surveys interview information is complemented with objective information, providing more accurate indicators than self-reported data. We report the study design, planning and implementation of the first Portuguese Health Examination Survey (INSEF). METHODS: INSEF was a cross-sectional population-based study representative at regional and national level. Individuals aged between 25 and 74 years old, residing in Portugal were selected from the national health users' registry through multi-stage stratified probabilistic sampling. Sample size was set at 4200 individuals. Data was collected in primary care units and included blood pressure, height, weight, hip and waist measurements, blood collection for lipid profile, HbA1c and blood count and a general health questionnaire. European HES procedures were followed. RESULTS: A total of 4911 individuals agreed to participate (43.9% participation rate). Participation rate varied by region, sex and age group, being lower in Lisbon and Tagus Valley (32.8%), for men (41.8%) and for those aged 25-34 years old (36%). CONCLUSIONS: INSEF has set up an experienced national and regional structure for HES implementation. Nationally representative quality epidemiological data is now available for public health monitoring, planning and research.

Improving breakfast patterns of portuguese children-an evaluation of ready-to-eat cereals according to the European nutrient profile model.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Ready-to-eat cereal (RTEC) breakfasts have been increasing in Portugal, among children. Eat Mediterranean (EM), a Portuguese comprehensive community-based intervention, proposed to improve breakfast patterns of children and adolescents and to evaluate the healthiness of RTEC according to WHO/Europe nutrient profile model (Euro-NP). SUBJECTS/METHODS: EM Program was developed during two scholar years (15/16 and 16/17) toward 2333 students (pre to secondary education). Data on breakfast was provided using a family record form. The intervention consisted of 257 educational sessions addressing the principles of Mediterranean Diet, and promoting a "healthy breakfast at home". To check for compliance with Euro-NP, RTEC package food labels' nutritional composition was used. RESULTS: After intervention 92.9% of children/adolescents had breakfast daily with no report of breakfast skippers. RTECs were one of the most frequent (66.5%) breakfasts. Statistically significant improvements were showed for: daily qualitative and complete breakfast frequency (5.6%) and fruit (11.2%). Consumption of RTEC decreased 28%. According to Euro-NP, 84.6% of the RTECs were non-compliant, regarding sugar content. Children's RTECs presented 5% more of energy and 26% more sugar than the "non-children's" RTECs. CONCLUSION: EM strategy showed to be a successful program to improve patterns and quality of breakfast of the children and adolescents, reinforcing the importance of school-based nutritional programs in changing lifestyles. Nutrient profiling can be a useful tool to provide a selection of foods to be part of a healthy diet and can be used by policy-makers to design policies to identify the foods to which marketing restrictions to children, will apply.

Plasma lipid levels of rats fed a diet containing pork fat as a source of lipids after splenic surgery.

Experimental studies have suggested an important role of the spleen in lipid metabolism, although with controversial results. Our purpose was to analyze the effect of a nutritionally balanced (NB) diet and a diet containing pork fat (PF) as source of lipids on the lipid profile of rats submitted to splenic surgery. Sixty adult male Wistar rats were divided into six groups of 10 animals each: 1 sham-operated, NB diet; 2 sham-operated, PF diet; 3 total splenectomy (TS), NB diet; 4 TS, PF diet; 5 TS followed by splenic autotransplantation (SA), NB diet; and 6 SA, PF diet. Blood samples were collected at the beginning (D0) and after 12 weeks of the experiment (D + 12) for plasma lipid determination. Morphologic regeneration of splenic tissues was observed, with no differences between groups 5 and 6. When D + 12 plasma lipid levels were compared to D0 levels there were no differences in groups 1, 3, and 5, while in groups 2, 4, and 6 total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein (LDL), very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), and triacylglycerols (TAG) increased, and high density lipoprotein (HDL) decreased. At D + 12, groups 2, 4, and 6 had lower HDL than group 3. In conclusion, regardless of the surgical procedure applied to the spleen, an NB diet maintained plasma lipid levels while a diet with PF as source of lipids changed the animals' lipid profile.

Lipidic profile among rats submitted to total splenectomy isolated or combined with splenic autotransplant.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the alterations on plasmatic lipids levels among rats submitted to total splenectomy isolated or combined with splenic autotransplant receiving standard chow during the postoperative period. METHODS: Thirty Wistar rats were divided into three groups: control (C)-- sham-operated, total splenectomy--isolated (TS) or combined with splenic autotransplantation (SA). Since the postoperative period, all animals received standard rat chow manipulated in accordance to the American Institute of Nutrition Rodents Diets (1993). The plasmatic levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), and glucose (GLUC) were analyzed before the surgical procedure and after 6 and 12 weeks. RESULTS: All the animals presented significant increase of TG and VLDL levels. In relation to the other parameters there was no difference among the weeks 0 and 12 in the animals of group C. In TS group significant increase was observed in TC and GLUC levels during the experiment. In SA group TC, HDL, and GLUC levels remained unaffected while HDL levels increased. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that isolated total splenectomy alters lipids metabolism in rats fed with standard chow and splenic autotransplantation is effective in restoring its control.