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Science News Archive December 2025 - Page 19


Page 19 of 46

Scientists identify small RNA molecule that regulates cholesterol and heart disease

Researchers have discovered a small RNA molecule that plays a key role in controlling cholesterol production and the development of heart disease. The molecule, tsRNA-Glu-CTC, was found to boost SREBP2 activity, leading to higher cholesterol levels and increased risk of atherosclerosis.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2025

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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

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

New agentic AI platform accelerates advanced optics design

Stanford engineers develop an AI framework called MetaChat, which rapidly accelerates metasurface design using computational tools and self-reflective AI assistants. This enables rapid solving of optics-related problems, such as designing metal lenses that can focus different wavelengths of light.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 15, 2025

SUMO E1 inhibition mitigates ocular lens fibrosis

Researchers discovered that SUMO E1 enzyme activity drives lens fibrosis, while its inhibition with ML792 disrupts SMAD4 SUMOylation and subsequent TGFβ2-induced fibrotic transformation. This study establishes a novel SUMOylation-SMAD4 regulatory axis in ocular fibrosis.

SourceCompuscript Ltd·JournalGenes & Diseases·DateDec 15, 2025
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Study uncovers new drug target for huge class of viruses

A study from UMBC reveals a conserved RNA-protein interaction as a promising target for broad-spectrum enterovirus antivirals. The researchers found that a fusion protein called 3CD recruits proteins to assemble the replication complex, and targeting this interface could lead to universal drugs.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2025

Order from chaos

In a groundbreaking discovery, researchers at the Technion and Shanghai Jiao Tong University found that photons can emerge with

SourceTechnion-Israel Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2025

Exploring how the visual system recovers following injury

A new study using mice found that surviving cells compensate for cell death by sprouting extra branches to promote recovery in the visual brain system. However, female mice showed delayed or incomplete repair compared to males. This suggests a compensatory mechanism following brain injury that differs between sexes.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournalJNeurosci·DateDec 15, 2025
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Study reveals fisheries danger zones for large seabirds

A new study led by UniSC has pinpointed areas and times when large seabirds like the Antipodean albatross are most at risk of injury or death from fishing longlines. The researchers identified winter hotspots in a latitudinal band near the Tropic of Capricorn, where juvenile and female birds face the highest risk.

SourceUniversity of the Sunshine Coast·JournalBiological Conservation·TypeObservational study·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

A rapid diagnostic breakthrough against a silent global threat

A novel diagnostic approach enables rapid detection of both antibiotic resistance and high virulence in Klebsiella pneumoniae, a microorganism driving the global antibiotic resistance crisis. This breakthrough could support timely, targeted therapy and strengthen infection-control strategies in healthcare settings.

SourceKoç University·DateDec 15, 2025

Helping young adults rethink uncertainty reduces anxiety and depression: study

A single 20-30 minute online course can improve young adults' tolerance of uncertainty, leading to reduced anxiety and depression. The course, which took less than half an hour to complete, showed lasting effects on mental health even a month after completion.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalPsychological Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateDec 15, 2025
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

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

Solar panels over crops may boost farmworkers’ comfort

Agrivoltaics systems can significantly augment quality of life for farmworkers by providing shelter from the sun, cooler drinking water, and reduced fatigue. Researchers found that these systems can reduce wet bulb globe temperature by up to 5.5 degrees Celsius, making them a crucial tool in protecting farmworkers from heat stress.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·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
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

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

Survey: Half of US adults resolve to start a new diet in 2026

According to a recent survey by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, nearly half of US adults resolve to start a new diet in 2026. More than 80% say cost is an important factor when choosing a weight-loss plan. Despite evidence that plant-based diets are effective and less expensive, only 6% plan to try this approach. Res...

SourcePhysicians Committee for Responsible Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateDec 15, 2025

Tapping into whale talk

A Harvard-designed bio-logger captures high-fidelity audio of sperm whale codas, which are later analyzed by machine learning models to uncover structured communication. Recent results show that sperm whales have their own alphabet and use vowels and diphthongs in their language.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalPLOS One·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2025
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Ret finger protein (RFP): a hidden molecular switch that fuels obesity

Researchers discover RFP's role in adipogenesis, a process that forms fat-storing cells. The study found that high RFP levels promote easy fat cell formation and weight gain, while low levels resist weight gain.

SourceChonnam National University, The Research Information Management Team, Office of Research Promotion·JournalExperimental & Molecular Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2025
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

The Alps to lose a record number of glaciers in the next decade

The Alps are expected to reach a peak loss rate of 2,000-4,000 glaciers per year by 2033-2041, with only 110 glaciers remaining in Central Europe by 2100. Regions like the Rocky Mountains and Andes will also experience significant glacier losses.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 15, 2025

New white paper analyzes U.S. vaccine safety monitoring system

A new white paper by biostatistician Professor Jeffrey S. Morris analyzes the multicomponent US vaccine safety monitoring system, including VAERS and other components. The study suggests improvements to enhance the system's effectiveness and sustain a robust safety monitoring infrastructure.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·DateDec 15, 2025
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Kids’ behavioral health is a growing share of family health costs

The study found that behavioral health care accounted for $41.8 billion of overall health spending in 2022, with families paying an average of $2.9 billion out-of-pocket. The costs have grown more than twice as fast as other types of medical care, with telehealth visits increasing by 99% per year.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateDec 15, 2025

Day & night: Cancer disrupts the brain’s natural rhythm

Research found that breast cancer flattens corticosterone release in mice, reducing quality of life and increasing mortality. Disruptions to diurnal rhythms have been linked to stress responses like insomnia and anxiety in cancer patients.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNeuron·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.

SourceInternational Institute for Sustainability with Knotted Chiral Meta Matter (SKCM2)·JournalNature Physics·DateDec 15, 2025
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

What makes a good proton conductor?

Researchers created a metric to quantify lattice flexibility and studied how it impacts proton transport. They ranked the importance of seven features, including hydrogen bond length and oxygen sublattice flexibility, finding that these are critical for efficient proton conduction.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMatter·DateDec 15, 2025

John Holdren awarded 2026 AIP Karl Compton Medal

John Holdren, a Harvard University professor and former OSTP director, has been awarded the 2026 AIP Karl Taylor Compton Medal for his scientific leadership in engaging the public and promoting sound governmental policies. The medal recognizes his contributions to physics through statesmanship in science.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateDec 15, 2025

Fine particles in pollution are associated with early signs of autoimmune disease

A new study by McGill University researchers found that fine particles in air pollution are associated with higher levels of a biomarker linked with autoimmune diseases. The findings add to mounting evidence that air pollution affects more than heart and lung health, potentially affecting the whole body.

SourceMcGill University·JournalRheumatology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 15, 2025
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

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
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

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.

SourceThe Lundquist Institute·DateDec 15, 2025

Eight SwRI hydrogen projects funded by ENERGYWERX

Eight SwRI hydrogen projects funded by ENERGYWERX will evaluate new technology and existing infrastructure for a hydrogen-powered future. The projects, conducted at SwRI's Metering Research Facility, aim to improve energy infrastructure and support the use of clean-burning fuel.

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·DateDec 15, 2025

New science reporting guide published for journalists in Turkey

A new guide aims to improve science journalism in Turkey, providing practical advice and insights from contemporary scientists. The Balkan Network of Science Journalists has published the first Turkish science journalism guidebook, highlighting the importance of high-quality reporting in a rapidly changing field.

SourceBalkan Network of Science Journalists·DateDec 15, 2025