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Abnormal thyroid hormone levels during pregnancy may increase the risk of preschool boys’ behavioral problems

A study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that abnormal thyroid hormone levels during pregnancy may predict preschool boys' emotional and behavioral problems. Mothers with high thyroid hormone levels were more likely to have withdrawn, anxious, or depressed sons.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJan 6, 2022

Low birth weight among IVF children not linked to infertility treatments

Research involving nearly 250,000 US families found that medically assisted reproduction techniques, including IVF, do not significantly affect birth weight and pregnancy term. Once family circumstances are considered, the differences between MAR-conceived babies and naturally conceived children become insignificant.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 6, 2022

Timing of brain injury in pregnancy, birth may impact motor and language outcomes, UCSF study finds

A new UCSF study found that the neural connections of newborns with two different kinds of brain injuries were linked to significantly different developmental outcomes years later. CHD newborns had worse language function at 12-18 months and worse cognitive, language, and motor function at 30 months compared to HIE infants.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 5, 2022
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.

Single blood sample can detect women at risk of pre-eclampsia

A study published in Nature has developed a new tool to predict pre-eclampsia by analyzing genetic material in a single blood sample. The test uses machine learning and sequencing approaches to identify molecular profiles that signal fetal development and pregnancy progression, allowing for earlier detection of complications.

SourceKing's College London·JournalNature·DateJan 5, 2022

ACA Medicaid expansion significantly improves insurance coverage for pregnant people: Implications for the Build Back Better Act

The ACA Medicaid expansion significantly improved preconception and postpartum insurance coverage for pregnant people, leading to reduced uninsurance and insurance churn. However, the study found limited evidence that it improved overall perinatal healthcare use or infant birth outcomes.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJan 4, 2022

Healthy diet in early pregnancy reduces risk of gestational diabetes

A study conducted at the University of Turku found that following a healthy diet in early pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of developing gestational diabetes. The research revealed that a diet high in saturated fats and low in essential nutrients increases inflammation and raises the risk of gestational diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalEuropean Journal of Nutrition·DateDec 29, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Immune system can detect disease during pregnancy

Researchers have discovered a pattern of immune activity in normal pregnancies that can detect abnormalities and predict complications. The study found elevated immune activation in the first three months, followed by a calmer phase, and higher activity in the last three months, especially when childbirth is imminent.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 28, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Childhood obesity linked with mother’s unhealthy diet before pregnancy

Research by Dr. Sarah Crozier found that children aged eight or nine were more likely to be obese if their mother had a poor diet during – and before – pregnancy. The study, which analyzed data from 2,963 mother-child pairs, suggests that intervening at the earliest possible stage in a child's life can help tackle childhood obesity.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 22, 2021

Why do people use cannabis during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

A study published in CMAJ found that people using cannabis during pregnancy and lactation do so to manage symptoms such as nausea and mental health problems. The motivations for use change when they become pregnant, with some stopping due to fear or stigma, while others continue to use it for symptom management.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeSurvey·DateDec 20, 2021

Testosterone drives the dark side of meerkat success

In meerkat societies, testosterone-driven aggression enables cooperative breeding by creating a hierarchy where subordinates help raise the matriarch's pups. Researchers found that matriarchs' high testosterone levels drive their aggressive behavior, which maintains group structure.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateDec 17, 2021

Poor women in rural India still denied safe hospital births, with maternal deaths at “alarmingly high” levels, study finds

A new study reveals that poor women in rural India are more likely to die during childbirth due to lack of access to safe hospital births. The research found that only 26% of women in low-performing states deliver in hospitals, compared to 87% of those exposed to mass media.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalGlobal Health Action·TypeObservational study·DateDec 16, 2021
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.

Study: Financial hardship prevalent during and after pregnancy

A study found that nearly a quarter of pregnant and postpartum women in the US reported unmet healthcare need due to cost. Women with private insurance and lower incomes were more likely to experience unaffordable healthcare, while those with public insurance and higher incomes had better access.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 13, 2021

Chemicals from hair and beauty products impact hormones, especially during pregnancy

A new Rutgers study found that the use of hair products like hair dyes, bleach, relaxers, and mousse is associated with lower levels of sex steroid hormones in pregnant women. Disruptions to these hormones may contribute to adverse maternal and pregnancy outcomes. Socioeconomic variables also influence personal care product use among p...

SourceRutgers University·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeObservational study·DateDec 10, 2021
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.

Association between community-level police contact, risk of preterm birth

A study of over 1,000 Minneapolis residents found that community-level police contact is associated with a higher risk of preterm birth. The study controlled for factors like socioeconomic status and housing conditions, suggesting a potential link between police interactions and birth outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 8, 2021

Maternal health risks linked to childbirth persist throughout postpartum year

Research suggests that severe maternal morbidity rates continue well into the late postpartum period, particularly among Black women, those with anxiety and depression. The study found alarming data showing increasing rates of maternal mortality later in the first year postpartum.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 8, 2021
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

In breast cancer, the best defense is a strong offense

Researchers discovered that pregnancy triggers the activation of Natural Killer T (NKT) cells to prevent breast cancer. After pregnancy, breast epithelial cells produce a specific protein called CD1d, which attracts NKT cells to monitor and eliminate potential cancer cells.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 7, 2021

Research finds potential mechanism linking autism, intestinal inflammation

Studies in mouse models found that maternal immune activation can alter brain development and lead to autism-like behavioral symptoms. The research also revealed a link between maternal microbiome changes and offspring's susceptibility to intestinal inflammation, with increased IL-17a production by T cells.

SourcePicower Institute at MIT·JournalImmunity·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2021

Probiotics improve nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, according to new study

A new study published in the journal Nutrients found that probiotics can reduce nausea and vomiting during pregnancy by up to 33% and improve quality of life symptoms. The study also identified specific gut microbes associated with higher levels of nausea, suggesting potential biomarkers for future research.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalNutrients·DateDec 3, 2021
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Study: Many Medicaid-enrolled women in Virginia weren’t aware of dental pregnancy benefits

A study found that many Medicaid-enrolled women in Virginia were unaware of dental pregnancy benefits, despite comprehensive coverage enacted in 2015. The survey revealed significant gaps in oral health knowledge among reproductive-age women by insurance status, with Medicaid-enrolled women facing barriers to care at higher rates.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalJournal of Women s Health·DateDec 2, 2021

PCORI Board approves $49.5 million to fund new research studies addressing pain relief, smoking cessation, mental health and other conditions

The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) Board approved funding for nine new comparative clinical effectiveness research studies addressing various health conditions. These studies focus on telehealth and mobile health strategies, reducing disparities in maternal health, and improving care for people with intellectual a...

SourcePatient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute·DateDec 2, 2021
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Breakthrough research on human embryo models paves the way for improving in vitro fertilization success rate and new non-hormonal, user-friendly contraception

Researchers have discovered molecules that could be candidates for contraceptives or fertility enhancers using human blastoid models. These models also show promise in improving the self-organization of stem cells during IVF procedures.

SourceIMBA- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Widespread vaginal condition could lead to emergency caesarean section

A new study by researchers at the University of Copenhagen found that an imbalance in vaginal bacteria is associated with a higher risk of emergency caesarean section. The study analyzed 1,396 samples from 736 pregnant women and discovered that those with greater levels of imbalance were more likely to deliver via C-section.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalClinical Microbiology and Infection·DateDec 1, 2021

Reconstructable uterus-derived materials help uterine factor infertility

Researchers have created reconstructable uterus-derived materials (RUMs) to aid in the recovery of damaged uteruses. The materials, which can be formed into different states and shapes, prevent intrauterine adhesion and promote angiogenesis, endometrial regeneration, and muscle collagen rebuilding.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

COVID-19 during pregnancy doesn’t harm baby’s brain

A study of 33 patients with COVID-19 infection during pregnancy found no evidence of brain development issues in the unborn child. The researchers used fetal MRI to evaluate the fetuses and concluded that a maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection has no effect on brain development.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·DateNov 30, 2021

Study identifies the impact of family physicians in rural maternity care

A multi-state study shows that family medicine physicians are crucial in rural maternity care, delivering babies in 67% of hospitals and being the only doctors in 27%. The loss of obstetrical services poses a significant burden to pregnant people and infants, with patients facing long distances for care.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·TypeSurvey·DateNov 30, 2021
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.

Complications in pregnancy and birth increase with COVID-19 infection

A study published in PLOS Medicine found that pregnant women with COVID-19 are more likely to experience complications during pregnancy and childbirth, including ICU admission, preeclampsia, and cesarean section. Vaccination may help protect these women, especially those at higher risk of severe COVID-19 infections.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateNov 30, 2021

Unborn babies could contract Covid-19 says study, but it would be uncommon

A new study suggests that unborn babies could contract Covid-19 if their gut is exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. However, researchers say that this risk is extremely limited due to the placenta's protective shield. Vaccination against Covid-19 during pregnancy is still recommended as a way to protect the unborn baby.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalBJOG An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 19, 2021
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.

Maternal caregiving may reverse effects of stress during pregnancy on newborns

Research suggests that high stress levels in pregnant women are associated with increased cortisol responses in infants. However, sensitive caregiving by mothers after birth can mitigate these effects. The study's findings highlight the importance of postnatal interventions to support children whose mothers experienced prenatal adversity.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateNov 17, 2021

Maternal depression associated with long-term economic instability

A Rutgers study found that maternal depression in the year following childbirth is associated with increased risk of short-term and long-term household economic insecurity. Women who experienced depression were more likely to be unemployed and experience financial hardship up to 15 years later.

SourceRutgers University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 17, 2021

Studying the placenta to gain a better understanding of febrile seizures in children

A Québec research team studied the expression of three families of genes in the placenta and found associations with febrile seizure characteristics. The study, led by Professor Sarah Lippé, may help understand the underlying mechanisms of febrile seizures and their impact on children's cognitive development.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalJournal of Neuroendocrinology·DateNov 16, 2021

Recognize every miscarriage as a bereavement, UK government urged

The UK government is being called on to recognize every miscarriage as a bereavement, rather than an illness, and award statutory bereavement leave. This would provide parents with up to 1 week of paid leave after a miscarriage, regardless of gestation, and address the current arbitrary cliff edge at 24 weeks.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Sexual & Reproductive Health·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 15, 2021
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

New evidence identified on safety of IVF embryo screening method

Researchers at the University of Kent identified strong evidence-based benefits of preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) in IVF. Live birth rates per embryo transferred and per treatment cycle were significantly higher with PGT-A compared to regular IVF, especially in women over 40.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalJournal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics·TypeObservational study·DateNov 15, 2021

Budtenders, healthcare providers seek more training as cannabis use rises sharply in perinatal women

A study found that budtenders and healthcare providers are seeking more training on interacting with pregnant and breastfeeding women about their cannabis use. Healthcare providers have a negative opinion of the effects of cannabis use, while budtenders perceive marijuana as a safer alternative to perinatal alcohol or cigarette use.

SourceWashington State University·JournalThe American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse·TypeContent analysis·DateNov 15, 2021

Cannabis use during pregnancy impacts the placenta and may affect subsequent child development

Research conducted by Mount Sinai Hospital reveals that cannabis exposure in utero can lead to higher levels of anxiety, aggression, and hyperactivity in children. Placental gene expression also shows lower immune-activating genes, predicting these outcomes.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateNov 15, 2021
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.

CNIC scientists identify the essential role of a gene in placental development

Researchers at CNIC have identified the essential role of GPR126 in placental development, revealing its critical function in fetal growth and viability. The study also highlights a possible link between GPR126 dysfunction and pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares Carlos III (F.S.P.)·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 12, 2021

Moderate amounts of caffeine not linked to maternal health risks

Researchers found that low-to-moderate caffeine intake was associated with a reduced risk of developing gestational diabetes. Drinking up to 100mg of caffeine per day during the second trimester showed a 47% reduction in diabetes risk.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 11, 2021

Netflix’s Sex Education lives up to its name – and challenges perceptions about teens and porn

The study analyzes how Sex Education fills the gap in sex education for teenagers, offering a more nuanced understanding of their needs. The show represents sex education as a conversation between teens, parents, and experts, challenging traditional gatekeeper ideas about adult protection.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalInformation Communication & Society·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 11, 2021

Service provides a lifeline for primary care providers amid a crisis in youth mental health made worse by the pandemic

The MC3 program provides a lifeline for primary care providers in Michigan, connecting them with psychiatrists and behavioral specialists for consultation and training. This has led to improved diagnosis and care for young people with mental health concerns, including those who express suicidal thoughts or have harmed themselves.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateNov 9, 2021

Pregnancy stretch marks cause stress and emotional burden, study finds

Researchers found that nearly 75% of pregnant women with stretch marks reported moderate to prominent embarrassment, which impacted their social activities, self-esteem, and clothing choices. The study highlights the need for open discussions about stretch marks to normalize them and identify potential mental health issues.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalInternational Journal of Women’s Dermatology·TypeSurvey·DateNov 9, 2021
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Cannabis use disorder rising significantly during pregnancy

Researchers found cannabis use disorders among pregnant patients had sharply higher levels of depression, anxiety, and nausea, warranting clinical concern. The study's findings underscore the need for further exploration of the disorder and its links to psychiatric and medical conditions.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 3, 2021
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 importance of social support during pregnancy

New research highlights the importance of social support during pregnancy, finding that women with low levels of emotional or affectionate support are at increased risk of depression and anxiety. The study suggests that screening for social support and providing community-based services may help improve health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalBMC Pregnancy and Childbirth·TypeSurvey·DateNov 3, 2021

Forest fires linked to low birth weight in newborns

Exposure to fire smoke from landscape fires during pregnancy is linked to low birth weights, a public health problem in LMICs. Newborns from families with lower average birthweights are most susceptible to the risks of pollution.

SourceeLife·JournaleLife·DateNov 2, 2021

Urgent need for vaccine to prevent deadly Group B streptococcus

A new report highlights the alarming global impact of Group B streptococcus, which can lead to up to 150,000 infant deaths annually. Maternal vaccination is seen as a cost-effective solution to reduce this toll, with significant health benefits in all regions.

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·DateNov 2, 2021