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Science News Archive December 2025 - Page 19


Page 19 of 46

Familial patterns in criminal conviction risk observed among individuals with ADHD

A large-scale study found that individuals with ADHD are at higher risk of being convicted of crimes compared to those without ADHD. Relatives of individuals with ADHD also show increased risk, even if they themselves do not have ADHD. Early identification and treatment of ADHD in high-risk families may help mitigate these risks.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 15, 2025

A testing paradox for sexually transmitted infections

A new modeling study suggests that regular testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can successfully reduce their spread, even if individuals on PrEP engage in riskier behavior. The paradoxical findings highlight the importance of careful surveillance data interpretation when evaluating public health interventions.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 15, 2025

Blood test may help identify which colon cancer patients benefit from NSAIDs

A blood test may help doctors identify which patients with colon cancer can benefit from anti-inflammatory medication and chemotherapy after surgery. The test measures circulating tumor DNA levels, and high-risk patients who test positive see improved survival rates when taking celecoxib with chemotherapy.

SourceAlliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology·JournalJAMA Oncology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 15, 2025

Refining the uncharted landscape of human transcription factors: a strategic framework for future prioritization

A study analyzed large-scale human ChIP-seq data to identify unmeasured transcription factor-tissue/cell type pairs, revealing significant gaps in current knowledge. These findings indicate that essential regulatory mechanisms may have been overlooked, emphasizing the need for strategic prioritization of measurement targets.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalBriefings in Functional Genomics·DateDec 15, 2025

Breakthrough on gene therapy for hereditary spastic paraplegia

Researchers at Drexel University and UMass Chan Medical School have developed a gene therapy approach that silences and replaces disease-causing genes in mice with hereditary spastic paraplegia. The treatment prevents nerve breakdown and symptoms, offering a potential cure for the rare disease. Studies suggest that the therapy could be...

SourceDrexel University·JournalMolecular Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2025

Researchers show visual training dramatically improves cognitive function after concussion

A new study published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience reveals that a visual training program called Perceptual Attention Therapy (PATH) produces rapid improvements in reading, attention, memory, and executive function after concussion. PATH addresses underlying visual timing deficits before strengthening specific cognitive skills.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 15, 2025

Researchers identify Tapt1 gene as essential maintainer of protein synthesis and brain development

Researchers have identified Tapt1 as a key gene in maintaining the balance between protein synthesis and degradation, crucial for normal brain development. The study reveals that Tapt1, along with its partner Suco, ensures proper neural stem cell proliferation and differentiation.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2025

Streptococcus suis serotype 2 collagenase-like protease promotes meningitis by increasing blood-brain barrier permeability

A study found that Streptococcus suis serotype 2 collagenase-like protease enhances virulence and tissue colonization, promoting BBB destruction and increased permeability. The protein also induced apoptosis in brain microvascular endothelial cells and infiltrated immune cells into the brain after infection.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalJournal of Integrative Agriculture·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2025

Scientists create stable, switchable vortex knots inside liquid crystals

Researchers created particle-like vortex knots in chiral nematic liquid crystals and discovered they can be reversibly switched between different knotted forms using electric pulses. The study provides a physical testbed for mathematical ideas, opening possible new routes toward knot-based electro-optic and photonic technologies.

Review article | Towards a Global Ground-Based Earth Observatory (GGBEO): Leveraging existing systems and networks

The study presents a comprehensive roadmap for building an integrated GGBEO to meet the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals and advance climate science. The system would integrate regional and global ground-based in situ and remote sensing systems, marine, and airborne observational data.

SourceBig Earth Data·JournalBig Earth Data·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 15, 2025

Penn and UMich create world’s smallest programmable, autonomous robots

Researchers at Penn and UMich created microscopic swimming machines that can independently sense and respond to their surroundings, operate for months, and cost just a penny each. The robots are powered by light and can be programmed to move in complex patterns, sense local temperatures, and adjust their paths accordingly.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2025

New international study reveals major survival gaps among children with cancer

A major international study reveals significant disparities in childhood cancer survival rates worldwide. The global average is just 37% survival rate, while high-income countries boast an 80% rate. Better monitoring and investment in healthcare are critical to achieve the WHO's goal of at least 60% survival by 2030.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateDec 15, 2025

The Lundquist Institute and its start-up company Vitalex Biosciences Announces Strategic Advancement of Second-Generation fungal Vaccine VXV-01 through Phase 1 Trials under $40 Million Competitive Contract from NIH/NIAID

The Lundquist Institute's second-generation fungal vaccine candidate, VXV-01, is moving forward in development after securing a $40 million NIH/NIAID contract. The vaccine aims to elicit robust immunity against opportunistic and hospital-associated pathogens.