A Brazilian study found that a major bivalent COVID-19 vaccine induces neutralizing antibodies against the original coronavirus strain and subvariants of omicron. The vaccine's effectiveness was confirmed, but its importance in controlling disease was limited by its focus on the original strain.
Researchers have identified cocaine as a contaminant of concern in the Bay of Santos' water, sediments, and marine organisms. The drug causes toxicological effects in animals such as mussels, oysters, and fish, with severe bioaccumulation and ecotoxicological risks.
Researchers developed a bioelectronic chip that can detect vitamins C and D in body fluids, offering a low-cost and easy-to-use solution for micronutrient monitoring. The chip is disposable, flexible, and can be adapted for wearable devices, enabling personalized diets and prevention of deficiencies.
Researchers in Brazil develop semiconductors that efficiently remove toxic substances from real-world textile wastewater using solar energy. The material, inexpensive and easy to produce, has potential applications in industry for wastewater treatment.
A 14-year study in the Brazilian savanna-like biome found that tree basal area increased while density decreased, and community diversity increased slightly. The researchers discovered that 54% of initial trees had died, replaced by new growth, highlighting the rapid degeneration of cerradão into a biodiversity-poor forest formation.
In Brazil, around 90% of sugarcane area uses natural enemies like microorganisms and biochemicals for pest control. Researchers have registered over 629 biological products, with a steady increase in use year after year.
Researchers have developed a DNA vaccine against zika virus that induces a strong immune response and protects mice from the virus. The vaccine uses genetic engineering to encode specific viral proteins and stimulates an adaptive immune response, with high levels of neutralizing antibodies produced.
A team of over 100 scientists from Brazil and the US ran high-resolution simulations of South America's past and future climate using a weather research and forecasting model. The goal is to better understand hydroclimatic processes and inform adaptation measures for millions affected by climate change.
A consortium of scientists, including Brazilians, has successfully sequenced the reference genome of Arabica coffee. The study identified genes responsible for resistance to rust and other diseases, as well as those related to the aroma of Arabica coffee. By comparing a dihaploid-derived genome with a common tetraploid variety, researc...
A team of researchers used a rapid metagenomics technique to sequence viral RNA and DNA from blood-engorged mosquitoes collected in São Paulo city, identifying vectors, viruses, and hosts. The protocol has the potential to extend our understanding of insect genetic diversity and arbovirus transmission.
Researchers used thermodynamics to describe the expansion of the Universe, finding that adiabatic and anisotropic effects are accompanied by cooling due to the barocaloric effect. The study proposes a novel way to investigate anisotropic effects associated with the expansion of the Universe.
Researchers analyzed 42 superflares using two models and concluded that hydrogen recombination is the most physically plausible explanation for high levels of energy. This model is supported by flare processes described in solar flares, which are well-studied phenomena.
Experts say the dominant literature on political polarization is inadequate for Latin America, citing a lack of evidence linking increased social inequality to polarized politics. Instead, research suggests that other factors, such as changes in political behavior and institutional instability, may be driving the crisis.
New behavioral health intervention programs aim to increase physical activity and healthy eating among Americans. Researchers are testing innovative approaches, including integrating physical activity into schools and community programs, to address the growing diabetes epidemic.
A study analyzing 8,384 clinical appointments found that women aged 45 are the majority of patients treated at public psychiatric outpatient clinics in Brazil. The patients had sadness, anxiety, and irritability as primary symptoms, with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors being commonly prescribed medications.
Researchers from USP produced maps showing areas of highest air pollution concentration and peak emissions periods; bus drivers have higher exposure levels than car or subway users. The study also found that green spaces have the best air quality, while high-rise buildings negatively affect dispersion.
FAPESP aims to create new opportunities for scientific and technological cooperation between researchers from Brazil and the US Midwest, focusing on areas such as health, sustainability, and climate change. The initiative also promotes transdisciplinary research collaborations to address global challenges.
A study published in Psychiatry Research confirms that weight training improves symptoms of anxiety and depression in old people. The analysis of over 200 articles identified the types of training most indicated for these cases, recommending exercises done three times a week with short sets and proper structure.
A team of researchers developed an AI-powered computer vision model to detect Brazilian wild animals on roads and warn drivers in real-time. The system uses roadside cameras and portable computers to identify species such as anteaters, wolves, and tapirs, with the potential to save lives and reduce roadkill.
Researchers recorded the first documented case of an amphibian using ultrasound for self-defense against predators. The frog's distress call has a frequency range of 7 kHz to 44 kHz, inaudible to humans. This behavior is likely used to scare away potential predators, such as bats and rodents.
Researchers developed zinc oxide nanoparticles to selectively inhibit multidrug-resistant bacteria, disrupting cell membranes. The material is considered safe and cheaper than other metal-based nanoparticles, with potential applications in water treatment and food packaging.
Researchers at Butantan Institute used phage display to screen 12,000 proteins from Schistosoma mansoni, identifying key parasite peptides targeted by macaque antibodies. This approach has potential for developing candidate vaccines against the disease.
Researchers analyzed skeletal remains from a burial ground dating from the period 500-400 BCE, revealing signs of material poverty and interpersonal violence. The study found that 80% of adults and adolescents died from inflicted traumatic injuries, with some displaying both perimortem and antemortem trauma.
The event aims to gather young researchers to discuss opportunities offered by advanced experimental synchrotron techniques available at Sirius. The School will feature lectures, poster sessions, and guided tours, taught by experts in the field.
Researchers have developed a simple and sustainable method for monitoring and degrading a mixture of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in water. The new approach uses excitation-emission matrix fluorescence spectroscopy and photochemical systems to achieve efficient degradation, outperforming traditional methods like chromatography.
Scientists have mapped 87 genes associated with alterations in blood pressure and 144 genes linked to variations in heart rate. The study's findings provide new insights into the genetic determinants of cardiovascular disease and offer a promising approach for future research.
Researchers at a FAPESP-supported research center have developed an electrochemical nitrogen reduction process using iron oxide and molybdenum disulfide catalysts. This method eliminates the need for high temperatures and pressures, reducing power consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
Scientists identified key factors in developing long-lasting immunity against dengue virus through analyzing immune responses to natural infection and vaccines. The study revealed molecular markers that could be used in novel vaccine development.
Researchers identified the origin of a discrepancy between experimental and theoretical values of the muon's magnetic moment. The study found that lattice QCD and electron-positron collision data disagree, highlighting the need to resolve this puzzle.
Researchers analyze solutions implemented in four Brazilian cities, proposing a national carbon credit fund to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase revenue through the circular economy. The study finds that efficient waste management can produce fertilizer, biogas, and generate significant economic benefits.
A recent study reveals that sandy soil reptiles are more vulnerable to extinction and habitat loss due to climate change. The research analyzed occurrence records for ten species of lizard and snake adapted to sandy habitats in South America's dry regions.
Researchers analyzed molecular data from brain tissue and blood of individuals who committed suicide, identifying risk markers for novel therapeutic targets. The study found alterations in the prefrontal cortex and inhibitory neurotransmitters, highlighting potential new approaches for preventing suicidal behavior.
A study in São Paulo's central area found that poor wood condition, sidewalk root constriction, and drastic pruning are major predictors of urban tree failure. The researchers propose guidelines for stakeholders to reduce the number of failures, which average 2,000 per year.
Brazilian researchers create a nickel phosphide electrode that efficiently produces hydrogen through water molecule breakdown. The material's granular structure enables good interaction with the electrolyte, making it suitable for alkaline, neutral, and acidic conditions.
The chikungunya virus infects CD14+ CD16+ monocytes and affects proteins holding epithelial cells of the blood-brain barrier together. The study found severe alterations in coagulation cascade, hemodynamic damage in organs, and high levels of inflammatory cytokines.
A study by IB-UNICAMP researchers showed that restoring biodiverse ecosystems can prevent exotic grass invasion, which is hard to eradicate. The study found that higher plant diversity reduces invasion, likely due to competition for resources in the nutrient-poor soil.
Researchers developed a curcumin nanoemulsion that effectively improved the bioavailability of curcumin and modulated the gut microbiota of mice with intestinal inflammation. The nanoemulsion increased the presence of beneficial bacteria, reducing symptoms of intestinal damage.
The study found that the fungus begins affecting the insect's behavior two days after spraying bioinsecticides, reducing its feeding activity and pathogen transmission. The fungus is a natural, wild species that does not pose a hazard to human or animal consumption, making it a potential alternative for organic crop control.
A study reveals that restoration strategies in the semi-arid region of Brazil have led to a return of native ecosystem services by improving soil microbial properties. The techniques, including removal of cattle and cultivation of cover crops, have resulted in higher biodiversity and crop yields.
Researchers found a correlation between Parkinson's disease and freezing of gait in 20 studies, noting similar brain injury causes both symptoms. Sleep quality deteriorates when dopaminergic medication is stopped, suggesting treatment potential for freezing of gait.
A new material has been developed that can degrade the widely used antibiotic levofloxacin, considered an emerging pollutant in aqueous environments. The material, comprising iridium dioxide and niobium oxide films on a titanium substrate, showed excellent photoelectrocatalytic activity and stability.
A study analyzing ELSA data found that osteoporosis, heart disease, and poor hearing increased frailty risk in men, while high fibrinogen levels, diabetes, and stroke were linked to higher risks in women. This highlights the importance of gender-specific action plans and intervention for older people.
Researchers found that specific auricular acupuncture improved the recovery rate for depression to 58%, compared to 43% for non-specific treatment. The study also showed no severe adverse effects, with most participants reporting mild pain at the needle application site.
Researchers at São Paulo State University developed a method to enhance perovskite solar cells using MXene Ti3C2Tx, increasing power conversion efficiency by 15% and stability by three times. This breakthrough has promising implications for large-scale industrial production of stable high-performance solar cells.
A study found that glitter's metal coating reduces light penetration, impairing photosynthesis of Large-flowered waterweed Egeria densa and affecting aquatic plant growth. The experiment showed a significant decrease in photosynthesis rates with the presence of glitter, highlighting the need for sustainable alternatives.
A one-year interdisciplinary therapy program reduced inflammation and cardiometabolic risk in obese adolescents, improving insulin resistance and weight management. The semi-intensive model produced better results than previous intensive models, reversing hyperlipidemia and promoting energy balance.
Researchers at São Paulo State University developed a novel technique using lipid nanoparticles to administer lupeol, killing Leishmania protozoan parasites. The therapy eliminated parasites from organs in animal tests, reducing spleen and liver parasite numbers by 99.9% with minimal side effects.
A rare case of an opossum infected with rabies has been reported in Brazil, highlighting the risk of virus transmission to humans. The study found that dogs can act as vectors for the virus and that opossums are key to surveillance in urban environments.
A Brazilian study analyzed how low-income communities deal with the effects of the economic crisis in São Paulo city. The research found that entrepreneurship is a main strategy used by members of poor communities to participate in the economy, with over 15 million people registered as micro-entrepreneurs nationwide.
Researchers at the University of São Paulo analyzed data from 115 children with syndromic growth disorders and found a high incidence of overlapping genetic alterations. The study highlights the importance of genetic sequencing in accurate diagnosis and treatment.