To close 2025 Futurity selected the site’s top ten research news posts. The selection spanned veterinary care, energy, archaeology, neuroscience, nutrition, materials science and environmental health, and it highlighted both practical tips and new discoveries.
Highlights included a piece on preventing fleas in pets and a report that solid-state batteries are getting closer to practical use. Lidar analysis suggested a 45% jump in estimated Maya population at the civilisation’s peak. Eye changes were linked to brain alterations and could serve as early warning signs of Alzheimer’s; the story noted that nearly 7 million Americans live with the disease.
Other items examined protein type after training, debate over when humans first reached Australia, ultra-thin lenses that convert infrared to visible light, concerns about a common sleeping pill and its effect on the brain’s cleaning system, and a dietary supplement that may lower PFAS in the body. Futurity invited readers to return in 2026 for more research news.
Difficult words
- archaeology — study of past human cultures and remains
- neuroscience — study of the brain and nervous system
- solid-state battery — rechargeable battery without liquid electrolytesolid-state batteries
- civilisation — large human society in a historical periodcivilisation’s
- estimate — to judge or calculate a likely numberestimated
- supplement — a product taken to add nutrients to diet
- concern — worry or a possible problemconcerns
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Which of the highlighted stories would interest you most and why?
- How could early warning signs of Alzheimer’s affect patients and their families?
- Would you try a dietary supplement that may lower PFAS in the body? Why or why not?
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