A review of research on minimally processed vegetables highlights cases of unsatisfactory microbiological safety and calls for best practice assurance throughout the supply chain.

Recently published in the scientific journal American Journal of Physiology, a Brazilian study demonstrated for the first time that survivors of severe COVID-19 infections may have elevated muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) in response to mental stress. The study was carried out by the D'Or Institute for Research and Education (IDOR), in partnership with the University of São Paulo (USP), the Federal University of São Paulo (Unifesp), and the University of Colorado Boulder. Its results are a warning for the so-called long covid, chronic sequelae left by the disease that could increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

In a study involving 46 volunteers, researchers at the Federal University of São Paulo found that telomere shortening, a biomarker of cellular aging, accelerated in untreated obstructive sleep apnea patients, whereas continuous positive airway pressure attenuated the damage.

Researchers at the University of São Paulo investigated the effects of five concentrations of glitter on two strains of cyanobacteria. Use of the material in makeup, party costumes and decorations should be reconsidered, they argue.

A biocatalyst discovered by Brazilian researchers has the potential to increase renewable biofuel output by removing obstacles in technology and production processes, as well as enhancing the manufacturing of bioplastics and biopolymers.