A study by São Paulo State University found a direct association between adults' levels of physical activity and their children's sedentary behavior. Children of inactive parents tend to be more sedentary, but when mothers and fathers maintain an active routine, their children usually follow suit.
Research with rats found that maternal diet lacking protein during pregnancy and lactation can compromise reproductive health of male offspring. Changes in epididymis structure and function lead to impairments in motility, viability, and sperm concentration.
A large-scale study found that genetic variants and ancestry play a significant role in colorectal cancer risk in Brazil. The study identified nine genetic variants associated with disease risk, including four that contributed to the risk independently of other factors.
Researchers found that deforestation is responsible for a significant reduction in rainfall and increase in temperature in the Amazon during the dry season. The study quantifies the impact of forest loss and global climate change on the biome, highlighting the importance of preserving standing forests to maintain climate resilience.
A synthetic molecule called Pep19 has been shown to reduce visceral fat and improve sleep quality in overweight adults, with no side effects observed. The study involved 24 volunteers who took either a placebo or Pep19 in capsules, and found a 17% reduction in visceral fat and improved sleep quality in those who received the molecule.
Brazilian researchers have developed a ceramic clay that is lighter than traditional materials by adding algae from the Sargassum genus. The addition of sargassum reduced the apparent density of lightweight ceramic clay aggregates, improving thermal comfort and reducing environmental harm.
A new species of bacteria of the genus Bartonella has been found in the Amazon National Park, Brazil. The DNA is similar to that of two other Andean species, B. bacilliformis and B. ancashensis, which cause Carrión's disease. No evidence suggests this new species can cause disease, but further studies are needed.
Researchers found signs of osteomyelitis in sauropod fossils from the Cretaceous period, suggesting a fatal bone disease that killed animals quickly. The study identified three previously unknown manifestations of osteomyelitis and provides insights into the environment that favored pathogens.
A study involving over 2,000 Brazilian students found that changing school shifts does not significantly improve academic performance for students with ADHD. However, afternoon classes only improved the performance of students with few or no symptoms of ADHD.
The COVID-19 virus replicates using cellular machinery responsible for testosterone production, altering lipid metabolism and potentially leading to lower testosterone levels. This study reveals the mechanism by which SARS-CoV-2 targets testicular cells, offering insights into male vulnerability to COVID-19.
A new Zika virus vaccine developed by Brazilian researchers has been shown to be safe and effective in tests with mice, inducing an immune response and protecting against brain and testicular damage. The vaccine uses a technology known as 'virus-like particles' (VLPs) without genetic material from the pathogen.
An international team of researchers established standardized guidelines for analyzing oxylipins, bioactive lipids related to inflammation and disease. The guidelines aim to improve reproducibility in laboratories and facilitate the transfer of scientific discoveries to clinical practice.
An ethnobotanist from the Pataxó Hã-Hã-Hãi Indigenous Land in Brazil has revived ancestral healing knowledge to treat diseases like parasitic worms, diabetes, and hypertension. He discovered 43 medicinal plants used for these diseases, with 79% consistent with recent scientific literature.
Researchers developed a fermentation method using unripe fruit beans, producing high-quality beverages comparable to those made from ripe fruits. The process, known as self-induced anaerobic fermentation, adds value to the product while minimizing its defects, making it attractive to domestic and foreign markets.
Researchers have successfully increased the susceptibility of Candida albicans to drug treatment through light-activated therapy. Combining photodynamic inactivation with antifungal amphotericin B reduced fungal growth by up to 87.5% and demonstrated potential as an alternative to combat antimicrobial resistance.
The decline of seed-dispersing animals, including birds and mammals, hinders the fight against climate change by altering forest composition and reducing carbon absorption. Researchers warn that major global efforts underestimate the importance of frugivores in conservation and restoration strategies.
A single species of coral in the Alcatrazes Archipelago retains about 20 tons of carbon per year, equivalent to the carbon emissions from burning 324,000 liters of gasoline. This stored carbon can last for centuries or millennia, making subtropical coral reefs like Alcatrazes potential greenhouse gas sinks.
A recent study identified four genes associated with treatment resistance to immunotherapy in melanoma patients. The genes, CD24, NFIL3, FN1, and KLRK1, were found to be linked to mechanisms of immune evasion and suppression of the inflammatory response. Patients with high expression of these genes had significantly lower overall survi...
The São Paulo School of Advanced Science in Systems Change and Sustainability brings together leading academics to discuss cutting-edge knowledge on sustainable transformation. Applications will be selected based on résumé, academic transcript, letters of recommendation, and proposal submission.
Researchers at the University of São Paulo propose an inelastic DM model that interacts with ordinary matter through a vector mediator. This interaction could open a new window for dark matter research, providing a more precise understanding of its properties and behavior.
Researchers reanalyzed the coelacanth's skull musculature and found that only 13% of previously identified evolutionary muscle novelties were accurate. The study also identified nine new evolutionary transformations related to feeding and respiration, revealing a more similar anatomy to cartilaginous fish and tetrapods.
A preference for domestic vaccines was observed in various countries during the pandemic, including Brazil, Mexico, India, Iran, and the US. Researchers identified a clear pattern of people choosing vaccines from their own country or those from Western nations like Germany, the UK, and the US.
A study analyzing data from 2002 to 2022 found a 50% decline in economic gains from fishing due to the introduction of exotic species. The size of native fish decreased, while invasive species increased in body size and abundance.
The Amazon has experienced a 163% increase in degradation and a 54% decrease in deforestation between 2022 and 2024. This 'negative balance' of biome protection threatens Brazil's international climate commitments, particularly its target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 59-67% by 2035.
A Brazilian study maps the direct and indirect impacts of marine resource-dependent economic activities, revealing strong connections between coastal and inland regions. The research highlights the importance of the blue economy in Brazil's GDP and employment, with regional specializations varying across states.
Researchers have identified a new genus of frog, Dryadobates, comprising at least 12 species, with three already declared extinct. The study utilized historical DNA analysis to clarify the taxonomic classification of previously single-species frogs, revealing hidden diversity and extinctions in the Atlantic Forest.
A study by USP and Sapienza Università di Roma researchers has synthesized fullerenes with up to 190 carbon atoms using an electrochemical route. The process involves natural graphite, ethanol, water, and sodium hydroxide under ambient conditions, paving the way for new organic synthesis and technological applications.
Researchers at UNICAMP found that a reduction in prey availability was a decisive factor in the extinction of saber-toothed tigers. The study also shows that an increase in predator diversity led to a decline in herbivore species diversity among antilocaprids, which are now represented by a single species: the American bison.
A newly developed AI-based tool uses protein expression to create a stemness index that analyzes tumor similarity to pluripotent stem cells. The model predicts tumor aggressiveness and identifies potential targets for new therapies, offering hope for improved cancer treatment.
Researchers have discovered batzelladins, which rapidly eliminate parasites that cause malaria, including strains resistant to conventional antimalarial drugs. The efficacy of these substances was proven through tests on blood samples from patients and infected mice.
The study identified a rare genetic alteration associated with high levels of the ADAM10 protein, which plays a role in breaking down beta-amyloid precursor protein. The researchers aim to develop a panel of prognostic biomarkers to differentiate Alzheimer's disease from other types of dementia.
Researchers found that adding partially defatted sunflower seed flour (SF) to bread increased its protein and fiber content. SF also boosted antioxidant levels and showed inhibitory activity against digestive enzymes, promoting health benefits. However, high proportions of SF compromised sensory characteristics.
A pilot intervention project involving playful sensory-motor activities improved reading speed and eye movements in children with dyslexia. The study found promising results in improving eye movements and reading speed in eleven children aged 10-12 who underwent a two-month protocol of cognitive engagement, reducing reading time and in...
Researchers found that hyperactivation of the PARP1 protein after exhaustive training is associated with decreased performance, fatigue, and behavioral symptoms of overtraining. A study published in Molecular Metabolism suggests that excessive protein expression may be the cause of the syndrome.
A team of scientists has simulated spontaneous symmetry breaking (SSB) at zero temperature using a quantum processor. The system evolved from an antiferromagnetic state to a ferromagnetic quantum state, revealing the formation of ordered patterns and quantum entanglement.
A study by the Center for Redox Processes in Biomedicine presents a valuable new experimental model for investigating the interaction between the proteasome and mitochondrial function. The proteasome plays a role in protein quality control, while mitochondrial metabolism affects protein degradation efficiency.
Researchers have discovered how FGF19, produced in the intestine, acts on specific regions of the brain to regulate energy expenditure. The hormone stimulates thermogenic adipocyte activity, leading to increased fat burning and improved blood glucose levels in obese animals.
Brazilian researchers have identified a link between the oral bacteria Fusobacterium nucleatum and head and neck cancer, finding that its presence is associated with a more favorable prognosis. The study suggests that F. nucleatum may regulate immune factors, boosting the immune system's response and making tumors less aggressive.
Researchers found high mercury levels in fish and shellfish consumed by lagoon residents, leading to systemic oxidative stress and metabolic alterations. The study's findings suggest a link between mercury contamination and chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension.
A team of researchers from the University of São Paulo identified agrin as a crucial protein in maintaining bone mass and quality. The study found that osteocytes produce agrin, which plays an essential role in preserving bone health. Without agrin, bone tissue becomes less dense and more fragile, making bones susceptible to fractures.
A study found that droughts can decrease nectar calories in zucchini flowers by up to 95%, harming pollinators and plants. Increased rainfall can positively affect nectar calorie production, but heavy rainfall events can have devastating consequences for ecosystems.
A team of researchers developed a plant-based meat substitute using sunflower flour, which is rich in protein and has a neutral taste. The product's texture and composition were found to be comparable to traditional meat products.
The experimental drug SANA has been shown to prevent fat accumulation, treat existing obesity, and reverse associated metabolic disorders. In animal tests, it activated thermogenesis through an unconventional mechanism, targeting adipose tissue cells to produce heat without involving the UCP1 protein.
Research reveals that children with OCD have significantly higher rates of rare copy number variants in their DNA compared to healthy children. The study's findings support previous studies and pave the way for future research into earlier diagnosis and targeted treatments.
A study published in Scientific Reports found that a combination of exercise and omega-3 supplementation significantly improves the immune response and reduces the severity of chronic apical periodontitis. The researchers induced apical periodontitis in rats, dividing them into three groups: one received no intervention, while the othe...
FAPESP is hosting researchers and startups from São Paulo in France to present their health and aeronautics research, strengthening international collaborations. The event includes scientific forums, startup pitches, and networking opportunities.
A new tool, called the Condition Assessment Framework, makes it possible to assess the ecological equivalence of an area to be restored or protected in relation to a degraded area. It considers three important attributes: biodiversity, landscape, and ecosystem services.
The article discusses how emerging contaminants like agricultural pesticides and medicines are impacting water quality in developing countries. The presence of these pollutants is linked to toxic effects on humans and ecosystems, with many being undetected or under-regulated.
A wearable device developed by researchers in Brazil uses a camera and tactile signals to warn visually impaired users of obstacles above the waistline. The device was tested on 11 blind adults and showed promising results, with participants reporting feeling more secure and completing routes with ease.
Researchers from USP and FAPESP will present their work on various topics, including health, agriculture, and artificial intelligence. The event aims to promote strategic connections and international visibility for startups and researchers.