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Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo


Traces of nearly four million coins reveal how Rome achieved economic integration

A study of nearly four million Roman coins reveals how Rome's economic integration facilitated its territorial expansion. The research, led by Eduardo Amaral Haddad and Inácio Fernandes Araújo, used digital archaeology and data science to reconstruct the monetary circulation of the Roman Republic from 155 BCE to 2 CE.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalHumanities and Social Sciences Communications·DateSep 3, 2026

Although research on animal production and climate is growing, bringing science to the field remains challenging

A study analyzed 1,694 articles and found an annual growth rate of 9.5% in research addressing climate change and animal production. The study also noted an increase in interdisciplinarity, methodological sophistication, and new agendas focused on sustainability, adaptation, resilience, and animal welfare.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalTropical Animal Health and Production·DateAug 25, 2026

Large mammals alter soil chemistry and increase fertility in the Atlantic Forest

A study published in Ecological Monographs reveals that large mammals like tapirs, peccaries, and deer alter soil chemistry and increase fertility in the Atlantic Forest. By trampling and rooting around, these animals reduce soil acidity and increase nutrient availability, leading to increased forest soil fertility.

Study explains how the Chagas disease parasite ‘activates’ its form capable of infecting mammals

Researchers discovered that Trypanosoma cruzi, the Chagas disease parasite, alters its RNA to adapt to infect mammals, a process that could lead to new treatments. The study found that modifications in transfer RNA facilitate protein production, influencing the parasite's transformation from a non-infective to an infectious phase.

Small doses of caustic soda increase biogas production from banana waste

A study conducted at São Paulo State University found that low concentrations of caustic soda increase methane production from banana waste, reducing reagent consumption and process costs. The optimal concentration of 0.2% NaOH promotes the greatest solubilization of carbohydrates and highest rate of gas production.

Artificial intelligence acts as an ‘ideological chameleon’ and may deepen political polarization, study finds

Researchers evaluated 21 language models, finding they alter their discourse to align with users' bias, creating echo chambers that reinforce preexisting beliefs. The models' behavior varies by topic, with greater shifts in stance on public safety and the economy, but consistency on corruption and democratic institutions.

Sediments off Brazil’s Northeast coast reveal sudden changes in heat transport in the Atlantic

Researchers have found evidence of two episodes of significant Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) intensification between 17,800 and 14,800 years ago. The study suggests that the AMOC may be more dynamic than previously thought, with potential consequences for global climate patterns.

Unsupervised free time increases the likelihood that adolescents will engage in violent behavior

An international study of 58,000 adolescents found that unstructured free time is strongly associated with delinquent behavior and exposure to violence. The study, published in PLOS ONE, analyzed data from 21 countries and found that association with delinquent peers was the strongest predictor of involvement in crime.

Use of omega-3 and ASA has a similar effect to antibiotics against severe periodontitis

A study found that combining omega-3 and low-dose acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) was comparable to antibiotics in treating severe periodontitis, reducing the need for antibiotics. The treatment combination showed significant benefits, with patients experiencing a similar rate of deep pocket reduction as those receiving antibiotics.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Periodontology·DateAug 6, 2026

Mega-study analyzes the impact of gratitude interventions

Research found that six gratitude interventions had a greater impact than three control measures, with greatest effect from social connection-based practice. Gratitude interventions led to improvements in psychological states linked to human flourishing, including positive affect, feelings of social reciprocity, and life satisfaction.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 6, 2026

Analysis of a super-deep diamond reveals how water travels to the Earth’s interior

A Brazilian research team used synchrotron light techniques to analyze a super-deep diamond and found that goethite can withstand extreme pressures and temperatures all the way to the planet's interior. The study suggests that goethite may transport and release water into the lower mantle, reinforcing the hypothesis.

Indigenous territory maintains ecological stability amid agricultural expansion in the Brazilian savanna

A recent study reveals that the Pimentel Barbosa Indigenous Territory, home to the Xavante ethnic group, has maintained its environmental configuration amidst agricultural expansion and deforestation. The area, dominated by Cerrado vegetation, has been preserved despite surrounding areas being converted to soybean farming and livestock...

Study detects, for the first time in Brazil, bacteria that cause a serious disease in farmed fish

For the first time in Brazil, scientists have detected bacteria that cause columnaris disease, a serious disease in farmed fish. The study found that six out of eleven isolated strains were of the Flavobacterium oreochromis species, infecting native Brazilian species such as tambaqui, pacu, and Amazon spotted catfish.

In São Paulo, Brazil, the expansion of bike lanes and parks encourages residents to cycle more

A study tracking 1,500 residents found that infrastructure within 500 meters of home encourages active transportation. The presence of bike lanes was a key factor in keeping people active and promoting cycling. The expansion of bike lanes and parks has encouraged physical activity and public health benefits in São Paulo.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Transport & Health·DateJul 8, 2026