An alternative method proposed by a Brazilian physicist cuts the time for computer simulation of the absorption spectrum from two days to a few hours.

In addition to helping combat antimicrobial resistance, the bioparticle developed at the Federal University of São Paulo avoids the waste and pollution created by excessive amounts of drugs in water bodies. The strategy was tested on an ornamental fish species native to the Amazon and found to be safe.

Record levels of destruction of native vegetation in the Brazilian savanna, the second-largest biome in South America, motivated the letter published in Nature Sustainability. The scientists who wrote it stress the need for specific measures to conserve the Cerrado’s rich biodiversity.

First of its kind sourcebook provides step-by-step guide to ensure food and agriculture policies have the best chance of success according to national and local contexts.

Lurking inside the crops of banana-producing-areas in east and central Africa is a disease called Banana Xanthomonas Wilt (BXW)—and new modeling by researchers from the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT has shown that if left uncontrolled, this bacterial disease could cause a 55% reduction in banana production in newly affected regions within 10 years.

Researchers at the University of São Paulo showed in mice the importance of the signaling pathway mediated by the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α and its receptor TNFR1; the discovery could now help scientists develop medications for oral health.

The Smithsonian Bird Friendly coffee and cocoa certification program opened its new Latin American office at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, STRI, in Panama, making it easier for regional coffee and chocolate industries to join the global movement to produce sustainable coffee and chocolate.