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Prenatal smoking associated with higher risk of mental health challenges in children

A large study funded by the National Institutes of Health's ECHO Program found that prenatal smoking is associated with behavioral and mental health challenges in children. The study examined thousands of children across the U.S., identifying periods when exposure may be most impactful.

SourceEnvironmental influences on Child Health Outcomes·JournalDevelopment and Psychopathology·TypeObservational study·DateApr 6, 2026

Influence of antibiotic use on mental health during pregnancy

A study published in BMC Public Health found an association between antibiotic use and maternal mental health during pregnancy. Researchers analyzed data from over 94,000 pregnant women and discovered a stepwise pattern of psychological distress linked to increasing antibiotic exposure. The findings suggest that avoiding unnecessary an...

SourceUniversity of Toyama·JournalBMC Public Health·TypeObservational study·DateApr 1, 2026
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.

Extreme heat from climate change linked to smaller babies

A study published in BMC Medicine found that extreme heat exposure is associated with low birth weight, affecting 18% of babies. Climate change is projected to increase this burden by 8-10% by the 2060s.

SourceAdelaide University·JournalBMC Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 1, 2026

Reducing the risk of recurrent preterm births using probiotics

Researchers found that early pregnancy probiotics containing Clostridium butyricum significantly reduced the recurrence rate of spontaneous preterm delivery, a major cause of neonatal illness and death. The study suggests that probiotic therapy may offer a simple strategy to prevent premature births in women at high risk.

SourceUniversity of Toyama·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 30, 2026
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.

Pregnancy-associated spontaneous coronary artery dissection

The study found that women with pregnancy-associated spontaneous coronary artery dissection (P-SCAD) have a higher risk of cardiovascular events, including dissections and aneurysms. Women with P-SCAD also experienced less recovery in left ventricular ejection fraction compared to those without P-SCAD.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateMar 29, 2026

Living in historically redlined neighborhoods may reduce one’s ability to conceive

Two studies led by Boston University School of Public Health researchers found that people living in redlined neighborhoods were less likely to conceive than those in favorable areas. The findings suggest that historical practices like redlining continue to influence reproductive health disparities in present-day communities of color.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 25, 2026

Simple antiseptic can reduce newborn infections

A Cochrane review found that chlorhexidine application to umbilical cord stumps likely reduces infections by 29% and may lower mortality rates, particularly in LMICs. Umbilical cord care is crucial for preventing infection and promoting healthy healing.

SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 25, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Snus linked to gum damage – gaps in knowledge about white snus

A systematic review found consistent evidence that snus causes gum recession, particularly with loose snus. White snus has virtually no studies on its long-term oral health effects, creating a significant knowledge gap.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalActa Odontologica Scandinavica·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 23, 2026

New study fills research gap in food safety to better protect pregnant people from Listeria

A new study has developed biologically plausible dose-response models to better protect pregnant people from Listeria, a leading cause of foodborne illness in the US. The models, built on data from guinea pigs and gerbils, found that fetal brain infection is a more precise indicator of stillbirth risk than direct stillbirth outcomes al...

SourceSociety for Risk Analysis·JournalRisk Analysis·DateMar 17, 2026
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.

Fathers’ health crucial to improving pregnancy and child outcomes

A new study published in The Lancet reveals that fathers' health and well-being play a significant role in shaping pregnancy and child outcomes. The research emphasizes the importance of investing in the well-being of boys and young men to reduce health disparities and improve outcomes for future generations.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 16, 2026

Major step towards a first global system to track health before pregnancy

Researchers identified key health indicators for a new global system to monitor people's health before pregnancy. The study found that mental health, physical health, supportive relationships, and finances are prioritized by both healthcare professionals and the general public.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalThe Lancet·TypeSurvey·DateMar 16, 2026
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

New U of A study expands pesticide risk window to before pregnancy

A new University of Arizona study found that exposure to certain pesticides before pregnancy is associated with lower Apgar scores, a measure of newborn health. The study suggests that pesticides can affect the next generation, highlighting the importance of regulating pesticide use to improve maternal and child health.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 13, 2026
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.

New model may predict preeclampsia in late pregnancy

A machine-learning model developed by Weill Cornell Medicine predicts preeclampsia risk in late pregnancy with high accuracy. The model uses electronic health record data to continuously update risk predictions, potentially providing clinicians with timely clinical action.

SourceWeill Cornell Medicine·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 6, 2026

University of Limerick, Ireland, research reveals challenges of living with gestational diabetes

A study from the University of Limerick found that supportive partners play a crucial role in women's experiences of gestational diabetes, with inadequate support increasing the burden of the condition. The research suggests that knowledge, communication, and cultural context are essential factors in determining the effectiveness of pa...

SourceUniversity of Limerick·JournalHealth Psychology Review·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 5, 2026
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.

We can intervene in pregnancy to reduce birth trauma and birth-related PTSD

New research from Murdoch University found that antenatal care can reduce the likelihood of traumatic birth experiences in Australian women. Low-cost interventions like childbirth plans and midwifery-led psychoeducation showed potential to reduce fear of childbirth and improve women's experiences.

SourceMurdoch University·JournalBirth·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 5, 2026

Trends in poverty and birth outcomes in the US

A recent study by JAMA Pediatrics reveals stark disparities in birth outcomes by poverty status, with low-income families facing increased risks of low birth weight. The findings underscore the importance of supporting vulnerable populations during pregnancy and birth through evidence-based antipoverty policies.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMar 2, 2026
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.

Heat and pregnancy

The article discusses current evidence on risks of ambient heat to pregnant women, including hot weather and occupational exposures. Effective strategies for managing heat-related risks are also highlighted as critical for maintaining maternal health.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 25, 2026

Yawns in healthy fetuses might indicate mild distress

A study published in PLOS One found that fetuses who yawned more frequently during pregnancy had a lower birth weight, suggesting mild fetal distress. The research observed healthy fetuses between 23-31 weeks and recorded their yawning behavior using ultrasound.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS One·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 25, 2026

The invisible hand of climate change: How extreme heat dictates who is born

A new study reveals that exposure to extreme heat during pregnancy significantly alters the human sex ratio at birth, leading to fewer male births. In sub-Saharan Africa, this is driven by biological factors, while in India, it is influenced by cultural practices and behavioral changes.

SourcePortland State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateFeb 25, 2026
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Pre-pregnancy parental overweight/obesity linked to next generation’s heightened fatty liver disease risk

Research published in the journal Gut found that pre-pregnancy parental overweight and obesity are independently associated with increased odds of developing metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in children by age 24. Cumulative excess weight in childhood significantly influences this risk, with children who...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalGut·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 24, 2026

New drug candidate prevents preterm birth in preclinical studies

New research shows that Rytvela, an anti-inflammatory drug candidate, decreases premature birth and infant mortality when administered after the onset of preterm labor in a preclinical mouse model. The treatment prolongs gestation and fetal growth while allowing newborn organs to develop in utero.

SourceAmerican Association of Immunologists Inc·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateFeb 23, 2026

Second pregnancy uniquely alters the female brain

Researchers at Amsterdam UMC found that a second pregnancy changes the female brain in unique ways, altering brain networks involved in attention and sensory cues. The study also linked structural brain changes to maternal mental health, providing new insights into postpartum depression.

SourceAmsterdam University Medical Center·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 19, 2026
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Missed opportunity to protect pregnant women and newborns: Study shows low vaccination rates among expectant mothers in Norway against COVID-19 and influenza

A study of over 50,000 pregnant women in Norway found low vaccination rates against COVID-19 and influenza, with only 29.9% and 12.1% vaccinated respectively. The study highlights the need for targeted strategies to improve vaccination uptake among expectant mothers.

SourceEuropean Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)·JournalEurosurveillance·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 19, 2026

Babies are exposed to more “forever chemicals” before birth than previously known, new study finds

Researchers used advanced chemical detection to estimate a newborn's total PFAS exposure, detecting 42 confirmed or putatively identified PFAS chemicals in umbilical cord blood. The study found that infants are exposed to a wide range of PFAS before birth, including perfluorinated chemicals and fluorotelomers.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 18, 2026

COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy may help prevent preeclampsia

A multinational study found that COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy significantly reduces the risk of preeclampsia. The study suggests that maternal vaccination may influence pathways involved in preeclampsia development, potentially offering protection even in the absence of COVID-19 infection.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalEClinicalMedicine·DateFeb 18, 2026
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.

With the right prompts, AI chatbots analyze big data accurately

Researchers at UCSF and Wayne State University found that generative AI tools can perform orders of magnitude faster than human teams in analyzing health data. Junior researchers paired with AI generated viable prediction models in minutes, outperforming experienced programmers in hours or days.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateFeb 17, 2026

As nights warm, study flags possible prenatal link to autism risk

A new study found that warmer nighttime temperatures during pregnancy may be associated with a higher risk of autism diagnosis in children. Exposure to extreme heat during early and late pregnancy increased the risk by 15% and 13%, respectively.

SourceTulane University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateFeb 12, 2026
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.

Pregnant women unaware of their rights and suffer violations in the workplace

A study funded by FAPESP found that most Brazilian women are unaware of their labor rights during pregnancy and postpartum. The research revealed that over half reported experiencing some type of workplace violation, with the risk increasing for those in greater social vulnerability contexts.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBMC Pregnancy and Childbirth·DateFeb 12, 2026

The most common causes of maternal death may surprise you

A recent study by Columbia University researchers found that accidental drug overdose, homicide, and suicide are the top causes of maternal death in the US. These unexpected findings suggest a need for increased awareness and multidisciplinary care to prevent these deaths.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 11, 2026

Choline intake in pregnancy linked to lower inflammation

A new study from Cornell University suggests that choline, a nutrient often consumed too little during pregnancy, may play an underappreciated role in regulating inflammation. Higher recent dietary choline intake was associated with lower levels of inflammation in the third trimester.

SourceCornell University·DateFeb 5, 2026
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.

Scientists find hidden diversity inside common brain parasite

A study by UC Riverside scientists reveals that the cysts of Toxoplasma gondii contain multiple distinct subtypes of parasites, each with different biological roles. This discovery offers new insights into how the parasite causes disease and why it has been difficult to treat.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2026
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.

Most common methods of inducing labour similarly effective

A new review of over 100 clinical trials found that 13 common labor induction methods are similarly effective, with low-dose vaginal misoprostol being the most commonly used and safest. However, some methods showed better success rates for specific outcomes, such as oxytocin with amniotomy for achieving vaginal birth within 24 hours.

SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 26, 2026

Cells that are not our own may unlock secrets about our health

Researchers are studying microchimeric cells that can play complex roles in a person's body, including healing wounds and regulating the immune system. However, more research is needed to understand their role in health outcomes, particularly pregnancy complications and autoimmune diseases.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeSurvey·DateJan 22, 2026

Pregnancy- and abortion-related mortality in the US, 2018-2021

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that abortion bans are associated with a significant increase in pregnancy-related mortality in the United States. The study suggests that restricting access to safe abortion care forces pregnant individuals to take on increased health risks, leading to higher mortality rates.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 21, 2026
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.

Most would recommend RSV immunizations for older and pregnant people

The CDC recommends RSV vaccination for pregnant women to protect their newborns, while a monoclonal antibody injection is also available for high-risk infants. Most experts agree that RSV immunizations should be recommended for these groups due to the severity of the illness they can cause.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·TypeSurvey·DateJan 21, 2026

Community water fluoridation and birth outcomes

A large cohort study found no association between community water fluoridation and adverse birth outcomes, providing reassurance about its safety during pregnancy. The study highlights the importance of rigorous causal designs in evaluating public health interventions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJan 20, 2026

Exposure to wildfire smoke late in pregnancy may raise autism risk in children

A new study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that exposure to wildfire smoke during the third trimester may raise the risk of autism diagnoses in children. Mothers who were exposed to more than 10 days of wildfire smoke had a 23% higher risk of their child being diagnosed with autism by age 5.

SourceTulane University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 20, 2026

CBD treatment reverses key effects of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder in a mouse model

A preclinical study shows that cannabidiol restores emotional behavior, reduces alcohol-related vulnerability, and reverses gut microbiota alterations caused by prenatal alcohol exposure. Female mice particularly benefited from CBD treatment, which normalized their emotional alterations and eliminated vulnerability to alcohol addiction.

SourceUniversidad Miguel Hernandez de Elche·JournalBiomedicine & Pharmacotherapy·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2026
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Pregnant women with IBD show heightened inflammation in vaginal mucosa

A new study found pregnant individuals with IBD have higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in their vaginal mucosa than healthy controls. However, a higher intake of vegetables and lower added sugars was associated with lower inflammation and increased beneficial microbe Lactobacillus crispatus.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS One·TypeObservational study·DateJan 14, 2026

Minimum wage increases are linked to safer pregnancies

A Rutgers University study finds that state-level minimum wage increases are associated with lower rates of maternal hypertensive disorders, a leading cause of maternal mortality. The research found a $1 increase in the minimum wage to be linked to 64 fewer cases per 100,000 women over five years.

SourceRutgers University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJan 13, 2026

Higher maternal blood pressure increases the risk of pregnancy complications, study concludes

A new study published in BMC Medicine found that higher maternal blood pressure increases the risk of preterm delivery, smaller babies, and gestational diabetes. The research used Mendelian randomization to assess the link between maternal blood pressure and 24 adverse pregnancy outcomes, revealing clear causal effects.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalBMC Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 13, 2026
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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