Researchers developed a simple, economical and environmentally friendly purification method for mullite-type bismuth ferrite, improving its efficiency in producing green hydrogen. The process uses light and glycerol to eliminate unwanted compounds, resulting in high-purity material suitable for photoelectrochemical reactions.
Researchers have discovered a new enzyme called CelOCE that can cleave cellulose using an unprecedented mechanism. This discovery has the potential to significantly increase the production of second-generation ethanol from agro-industrial waste, enabling the large-scale production of biofuels.
Researchers at State University of Campinas found that physical exercise prevents the transition from acute to chronic muscle pain by activating an anti-inflammatory signaling pathway in immune cells. This can lead to the development of new treatments for muscle pain, potentially reducing opioid consumption.
A study on Brazilians in their 50s found that those with hearing loss experienced faster cognitive decline than expected for their age. This highlights the importance of addressing hearing health to prevent dementia, which is a growing concern worldwide.
Researchers have discovered that silver nanoparticles produced by the fungus Trichoderma reesei can inhibit the infection of SARS-CoV-2 in hamster lungs, reducing inflammation and viral load. The study also suggests that these nanoparticles could be used to prevent and treat other viral diseases, such as HIV/AIDS, shingles, and influenza.
FAPESP is launching a call for International Thematic Grants to support researchers from abroad in developing innovative projects at the forefront of knowledge. The selected projects will have a maximum duration of 60 months and provide full administrative support, access to facilities, and inclusion in graduate courses.
A Brazilian study of over 700 infants found that ultra-processed food consumption negatively affects gut diversity and abundance, particularly in non-breastfed children. Breastfeeding mitigates this effect, promoting higher Bifidobacterium levels and better health markers.
Researchers found that Brazil's beef production, if left unchecked, would exceed the country's limit for meeting its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) target by up to 63GtCO2e by 2030. The study suggests that adopting emission reduction practices could prevent losses of up to $42.6 billion and ensure greater competitiveness.
Researchers identified key tasks in a speech assessment battery to detect primary progressive aphasia, a rare neurodegenerative disease. Early detection can lead to slower disease progression and improved communication skills.
Researchers reconstructed metal pollution history in São Paulo using sediment cores, revealing three periods of increasing pollution. The study highlights the importance of sediments as environmental indicators and offers insights for conservation efforts.
A Brazilian study estimated deer population density in the Atlantic Rainforest, revealing human pressures like hunting and livestock diseases significantly impact deer numbers. The research provides strong evidence for conservation management and protected area protection.
A recent study suggests that aquaculture in the Amazon can be a more sustainable alternative to livestock farming, producing 10 times less greenhouse gases and using 20-100 times less land. This could help achieve food security in the region while minimizing environmental impact.
A study of 352 newborn pairs found that maternal childhood trauma can lead to excessive weight gain in male children as early as the first two months of life. This may increase future risk of obesity and diabetes, highlighting a potential intergenerational effect.
A rodent study found hnRNP A1 regulates myelin production and maintains its integrity, suggesting an impact on neurodegenerative diseases like schizophrenia. The findings provide new insights into the disease's molecular basis and potential treatments.
Scientists have discovered a new bacterial strain, Bacillus thuringiensis RZ2MS9, that can enhance the growth of soybeans and corn when combined with rhizobia. This partnership reduces fertilizer use, saving Brazilian growers an estimated USD 15 billion annually.
Researchers discovered that endoperoxides derived from ergosterol and 7-dehydrocholesterol induce the death of melanoma cells. This finding paves the way for expanding the use of photodynamic therapy in fighting skin cancer.
Researchers developed a new, three times more effective version of the antibothropic serum used to treat snake venom poisoning. The improved serum had increased neutralizing antibodies and fewer proteins associated with side effects, resulting in greater potency and reduced risk of adverse reactions.
A study in the journal Cell Host & Microbe found that a diet rich in soluble fiber can protect against pathogenic bacteria like Clostridioides difficile. Consuming soluble fiber produces compounds like acetate, which regulates immune response and reduces inflammation.
A study in Brazil's Caatinga biome found that removing animals from degraded pastures did not restore soil health after three years. Green manure and strategic tree planting are recommended to accelerate ecological recovery. Soils show severe degradation, with carbon loss and decline in holistic soil health index.
A new method using free software and a drone with a low-cost camera has been developed to select drought-tolerant corn plants. The approach allows for optimized data collection, faster processing, and reduced costs compared to conventional methods.
Researchers developed a biosensor using an Amydetes vivianii firefly enzyme that detects pH changes in mammalian cells, which could be used to study diseases and assess drug toxicity. The technique is non-toxic and stable, providing a stronger glow than previous luciferases.
A new edible biofilm developed by Brazilian researchers extends the shelf life of strawberries by up to 11% while preserving their freshness, taste, and aroma. The film, made from pomegranate peel extract and natural polymers, acts as a barrier to microorganisms, moisture loss, and gas exchange.
A study published in GeroScience found that weight training improves memory and brain anatomy in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. The results showed that strength training protected against atrophy in key brain areas associated with Alzheimer's disease.
The Albert Einstein Jewish Brazilian Hospital launches a project to evaluate the application of quantum computing in developing new drugs and improving disease diagnosis. Researchers aim to use machine learning and quantum optimization algorithms to analyze rainfall data and predict heavy rainfall events.
The FAPESP Investigator Grant for International Researchers aims to recruit top talent globally to boost São Paulo's scientific and technological leadership. The call is open to researchers living abroad for at least 2 years, with a focus on leadership capacity and research potential.
Researchers have studied the mechanism of action of bioactive compounds from papaya, passion fruit, and medicinal plant extracts. Modified pectins extracted from these plants show potential as supplements or food ingredients to boost biological activity against colon cancer and gut microbiota.
A study predicts that over 80% of amphibian species in the Upper Paraguay River Basin will lose suitable habitats by 2100. The region, which includes the Pantanal and its surroundings, is expected to experience local extinctions under both optimistic and pessimistic greenhouse gas emissions scenarios.
The world is facing critical challenges like climate change and inequality, which require international cooperation. However, scientific freedom is under threat due to illiberal and authoritarian governments, economic power, and digital media. FAPESP has played a crucial role in defending scientific freedom in Brazil.
Researchers developed a new geospatial intelligence methodology to accurately delineate areas of natural vegetation and agricultural production by crop type. The results showed 95% accuracy in mapping, providing support for public policies aimed at agricultural production and environmental conservation.
The event aims to promote research partnerships between researchers from São Paulo and European countries. FAPESP Week Germany saw strong scientific and technological cooperation growth between the state of São Paulo and Germany in recent years, with 2,000 articles published in partnership with German colleagues.
The São Paulo School of Advanced Science on Emerging Pollutants will tackle the challenges of monitoring and regulation of emerging pollutants. Applications can be submitted until April 20, 2025.
Brazil's state of São Paulo is expanding scientific and technological cooperation with European partners Germany, UK, and France to strengthen regional relations. The country aims to be competitive in the wake of a favorable trade agreement between Mercosur and the EU.
A study of 130 volunteers found a drastic decrease in heart rate variability after COVID-19, even in mild cases. The researchers observed an imbalance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, suggesting a higher risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes.
Researchers at the Center for Redox Processes in Biomedicine have identified new inhibitors of h15-LOX-2, a protein involved in inflammatory and metabolic processes. These compounds may provide promising candidates for developing new drugs to boost studies on the enzyme's biological role.
Researchers found that lemon leafcutter ants increase their cleaning behavior one week and a month after initial contact with a pathogenic fungus, but not after 60 days. The ants recognize the pathogen and recruit more workers to fight it even after multiple re-exposures, indicating a social immune memory.
Researchers found that cannabidiol stimulates the biomineralization of teeth even under inflammatory conditions, promoting tissue repair. The substance also inhibited the synthesis of inflammatory mediators in macrophages, suggesting an anti-inflammatory effect.
Researchers identified the prion protein as a key player in the progression of glioblastoma, a type of brain tumor. The study found that blocking the production of this protein using genetic editing reduced the ability of tumor stem cells to proliferate and invade tissues.
A new Brazilian technology developed by brain4care has been shown to measure absolute values of intracranial pressure (ICP) more accurately than existing non-invasive methods. The technology analyzes ICP's morphology and trend, allowing for early detection of neurological changes and enabling doctors to intervene quickly and accurately.
Researchers discovered a novel coronavirus in bats in Brazil with similarities to the Middle East respiratory syndrome virus. The five bats belonged to two species and showed significant genetic diversity, prompting experiments to determine whether it can infect humans.
A recent study on the governance of public policy in the Brazilian state of Amazonas recommends an experimentalist governance system that integrates local efforts and values traditional knowledge. The approach prioritizes the conservation of ecosystems while promoting socio-economic development and attracting investment to the region.
Researchers developed a cell phone application that detects posture and advises users on how to improve alignment through voice commands, vibrations, or images. The app helps patients with hemiparesis, a common sequelae of strokes, regain lost body awareness and perform daily tasks.
Researchers developed a simple test that detects antibodies against four dengue virus serotypes and zika virus. The test achieved high sensitivity (87.8%) and specificity (91.4%), indicating its potential to monitor specific antibodies produced in response to exposure to the viruses.
Researchers found that added sugars contribute between 7% and 21% to the risk of gastric cancer, while sodium intake is the main mediating factor. Healthy diets characterized by high vegetable and fruit consumption can reduce this risk.
Researchers found that administration of fish oil reduced insulin resistance and improved blood sugar levels in non-obese rats, reversing a condition similar to type 2 diabetes. The study suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may be a key factor in reducing inflammation and improving glucose metabolism.
A study found that caterpillars of two species interact solely with one ant species each, secreting a sugary liquid for recognition and protection. However, switching the pairings led to aggressive attacks from ants, highlighting the specificity of these interactions.
Researchers identified 19 metabolites and found that levels of certain compounds correlated with increased blood pressure, worse obstetric outcomes, and poorer end-organ function. The study expands scientific knowledge of preeclampsia and its mechanisms, paving the way for future therapeutic strategies.
A study of over 3,600 adolescents found that spending more than 3 hours a day engaged in sedentary behaviors increases the risk of psychological distress. In contrast, moderate screen exposure invested in educational activities was linked to less psychological distress.
A study analyzing 12 sunglasses models found that only one met international safety limits for UV radiation exposure. The lenses lose their ability to block UV radiation over time, increasing the risk of eye damage. To minimize this risk, scientists suggest adopting ICNIRP limits as standard practice.
A study of over 6,000 Brazilians found that consuming polyphenols from foods like fruits, coffee, chocolate, and wine can reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome by up to 23%. The study also found that flavan-3-ols in red wine were associated with a lower risk of developing the condition.
A study of 17,972 wells in Brazil reveals that more than half of the country's rivers could suffer reduced flow due to groundwater seepage. The São Francisco River basin and MATOPIBA region are particularly critical areas, with intensive agricultural activity and climate change exacerbating the problem.