Brazilian researchers unveil a groundbreaking study in Science Advances, exposing the intricate relationship between the prion protein, related to neurodegenerative diseases, and copper ions, which are especially important for neurotransmission. The findings reveal dynamic liquid condensates of the prion protein acting as copper scavengers at cell surfaces. Crucially, exposure to oxidative stress triggers a transition from liquid to solid, offering insights into potential interventions to prevent neurodegeneration.

Scientists at the State University of Campinas analyzed samples taken at 15 points in the basin comprising the Piracicaba, Capivari and Jundiaí Rivers, and detected 45 contaminants, including compounds from agricultural, industrial and household effluents not yet regulated by Brazilian legislation.

The hydroxyl radical causes the dissociation of guanine, one of the nitrogenated bases in the nucleotides that make up DNA.The research focused on the damage done to DNA indirectly by oxidizing chemical species such as the hydroxyl radical.

The World Cultural Council (WCC) is now accepting nominations for the “Albert Einstein” World Award of Science and the “Leonardo da Vinci” World Awards of Arts. 

Nominations must be submitted by 26 January, 2024. To nominate online or for further details of the awards visit the WCC website Nominations page.

Ideal candidates for the “Albert Einstein” World Award of Science are scientists whose achievements can serve as an inspiration for future generations. This award is granted each year. Consideration will be given to individuals or institutions in one of the Life Sciences, such as Neuroscience, Earth Science, Biology, Biochemistry, Medicine or Chemistry; or in one of the Natural Sciences such as Physics, Mathematics or Astronomy.

A candidate for the “Leonardo da Vinci” World Awards of Arts should be a renowned artist, sculptor, painter, writer, poet, cinematographer, photographer, architect, musician or other performing, creative or visionary artist, whose work constitutes a significant contribution to the artistic legacy of the world. The prize is awarded every second year.

Apart from evaluating the nominee´s breakthrough achievements, the jury will also assess the service which each has made to mankind and his/her qualities as a role model who inspires future generations to contribute to a better world.

A study conducted in Brazil analyzed marine sediments to investigate gas exchanges between the ocean and the atmosphere in the recent past. The researchers concluded that a rise in the temperature of the South Atlantic caused a release of CO₂ trapped at the bottom of the Southern Ocean.

The study by researchers at the University of São Paulo also shows that genetic engineering techniques need to be improved in order to increase ethanol production without expanding crop acreage, a strategy considered crucial to the effort to cope with climate change.

A computational study conducted by the Center for Development of Functional Materials at the Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar) in Brazil could help extend the working lives of these batteries, which are widely used by utilities and manufacturers.

The fossil assemblage was found in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, one of Brazil’s richest paleontological regions. The bones belonged to animals that lived between 247 million and 208 million years ago. It is difficult to confirm they can be considered species of dinosaur.

In vitro experiments showed cobalt-doped calcium phosphate to be capable of stimulating bone cell differentiation by mimicking a low-oxygen environment. Next steps include animal testing.