Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo


Cappuccino made with jackfruit seed flour has chocolate aroma

A study conducted in Brazil found that roasted jackfruit seeds can replace between 50% and 75% of cocoa powder in milk and coffee used to make cappuccino without impairing flavor or aroma. The researchers developed an instant powder containing coffee with milk and chocolate, which can be a potential substitute for traditional cappuccino.

Four extremely young asteroid families identified

Researchers affiliated with São Paulo State University have identified four extremely young asteroid families using a numerical simulation method. The newly discovered families are estimated to be less than 7 million years old and were dated using the backward integration method, which is precise for young families.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateSep 24, 2018

Climate change may drive 10 percent of amphibian species in the Atlantic Rainforest to extinction

A Brazilian study found that climate change could lead to the extinction of up to 10% of frog and toad species endemic to Brazil's Atlantic Rainforest biome within the next 50 years. The researchers used spatial distribution data and ecological niche models to predict which areas would be favorable for each species.

Experiment obtains entanglement of six light waves with a single laser

Researchers at the University of São Paulo's Physics Institute have successfully entangled six light waves using an optical parametric oscillator. This achievement could lead to faster processing speeds and improve the feasibility of quantum computing by enabling the creation of systems with multiple entangled components.

Patent mining indicates promising routes for research

A patent mining method developed by Brazilian scientists uses big data tools to identify technological routes, trends, and partnerships in various knowledge areas. The method has been validated in an analysis of studies on hemophilia, revealing a promising molecule called XTEN that can extend the half-life of recombinant factor VIII.

In test with rats, cannabidiol showed sustained effects against depression for 7 days

Researchers found that a single dose of cannabidiol eliminated symptoms of depression in rats and maintained benefits for up to seven days. The study's findings suggest that cannabidiol rapidly triggers neuroplastic mechanisms to repair damaged neuronal circuitry, providing new hope for treating broad-spectrum depression.

A new, highly effective and selective molecule is developed to fight malaria

A novel laboratory-synthesized molecule based on natural compounds found in marine gliding bacteria is capable of killing even the strain that resists conventional antimalarials. In tests, it displays low toxicity and high selectivity, acting only on the parasite and not on other cells of the host organism.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateAug 9, 2018

Identified RNA molecules that regulate action of male hormone in prostate cancer

A study has identified 600 novel long noncoding RNA molecules that regulate the effects of androgens and androgen receptors on gene expression in prostate tumors. These lncRNAs are powerful regulators of gene expression and interact with and magnify the effect of regulatory proteins, suggesting a new target for treatment.

Treatment prevents symptoms of schizophrenia in tests with rats

Researchers found that sodium nitroprusside prevented behavioral alterations associated with schizophrenia in rats, suggesting a potential preventive treatment for young people at risk. The study used an animal model that mimics the condition in children and adolescents considered at risk for development of the disease in adulthood.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalCNS Neuroscience & Therapeutics·DateJul 12, 2018

Study finds new genomic regions associated to weight gain in Nelore cattle

A Brazilian research project has identified six genomic regions linked to weight gain in Nelore cattle, a breed adapted to tropical climates. The study, led by Diercles Cardoso, used DNA analysis to pinpoint genes associated with growth and weight gain, offering potential for improvement of the breed's food efficiency.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalGenetics Selection Evolution·DateJul 3, 2018

Study investigates the reproductive habits of the fungus that causes athlete's foot

A recent study published in the journal Genetics found that the fungus Trichophyton rubrum exhibits asexual reproduction as its primary method of reproduction. The research suggests that mating between individuals is rare and requires highly specific conditions, resulting in low genetic variability within the population.

History of side-necked turtle diversification revealed

A new phylogeny of the Pleurodira suborder, including the Yellow-spotted Amazon River turtle, provides insights into the evolutionary history and biogeographical distribution of side-necked turtles. The study found that Pleurodira fossils are scattered across continents, with the oldest species dating back to 125 million years ago.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJun 26, 2018

Invasive species of coral boasts amazing capacity for regeneration

Researchers in Brazil have discovered that sun coral can regenerate at a faster rate as water temperature increases, making it a formidable invasive species. The study's findings suggest that the genus Tubastraea, which comprises seven species, including two invasive ones, can thrive in various marine environments.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology·DateJun 5, 2018