Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Fetal MRI is a valuable adjunct to ultrasound in detecting abnormal extracardiac development in fetuses with congenital heart defects

A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that fetal MRI can detect at least one other abnormality in almost 57% of fetuses with heart defects. Additionally, approximately a quarter of all fetuses had structural brain abnormalities, regardless of the severity of the heart defect.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateDec 20, 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.

A Zika hijacking with devastating impacts

Researchers from Duke-NUS Medical School found that Zika virus infection disrupts the glucose metabolism pathway in infected foetuses, leading to birth defects and death. A potential supplement, pyruvic acid, may protect foetuses from these impacts.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 14, 2021

Adverse complications for covid positive pregnant women and their newborns adds further weight to vaccination calls

A new study found a significant increase in adverse outcomes for COVID-19 positive pregnant women, including gestational diabetes, low white blood cell counts, and heavier bleeding during delivery. Respiratory complications were also witnessed in their babies, highlighting the importance of vaccinating all pregnant women against COVID-19.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalThe Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine·DateOct 10, 2021

Now how did that get up there?

Researchers discovered three phases of growth that explain how cetaceans shift their nasal passage from a parallel to an angled orientation. This finding provides insight into the developmental process and could inform our understanding of cetacean evolution.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Anatomy·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 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.

Gestational diabetes increases the risk of fetal hypoxia during labor

A Finnish study published in Acta Diabetologica found that gestational diabetes significantly increases the risk of fetal hypoxia during labor. The risk is nearly seven-fold compared to non-diabetic mothers, and can lead to birth injuries, brain damage, and infant mortality.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalActa Diabetologica·DateJun 22, 2021

Maternal anxiety affects the fetal brain

A study by Children's National Hospital researchers found that maternal anxiety during pregnancy can alter neural connectivity in the womb. Fetuses of anxious mothers showed stronger connections between the brainstem and sensorimotor areas, while those with lower anxiety had weaker connections between executive cognitive functions.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 7, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers found a link between genes and preeclampsia

A study published in EBiomedicine reveals a genetic link between the HLA-G gene and preeclampsia. The researchers found that certain alternative forms of the HLA-G gene are connected to the male-to-female ratio at birth, fetal survival, and pregnancy complications.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalEBioMedicine·DateJul 14, 2020

Persistent organic pollutants in mother's blood linked to smaller fetal size

Researchers found that pregnant women exposed to persistent organic pollutants had slightly smaller fetuses than those who were not exposed. The study analyzed ultrasound scans and blood samples from over 2,200 pregnant women, finding a significant association between exposure to POPs and reduced fetal growth.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateDec 30, 2019
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.

High levels of estrogen in the womb linked to autism

A new study from the University of Cambridge has identified a link between high levels of estrogen in the womb and an increased risk of developing autism. The research found that prenatal estrogen levels were significantly higher in male fetuses who later developed autism compared to those who did not.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJul 29, 2019

How much language are unborn children exposed to in the womb?

Researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign found a wide difference in language exposure among fetuses, ranging from five hours to two hours and 45 minutes. This study aims to inform best practices for NICU care and understand the impact on early brain development.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 14, 2019

Artificial womb technology breaks its 4 minute mile

A major breakthrough in artificial womb technology has demonstrated its ability to support extremely preterm babies equivalent to a human fetus at 24 weeks of gestation. The study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology shows that the technology can maintain stable, growth-normal state for five days.

SourceTohoku University·DateMar 26, 2019

Study looks at seasonal and geographic trends in syphilis

Researchers analyzed temporal and demographic patterns in gestational syphilis and mother-to-child-transmission of syphilis in a Brazilian region. They found no annual endemic period, but increased cases during February and a failure in the notification system.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateFeb 21, 2019
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.

New chromosome study can lead to personalized counseling of pregnant women

A new study from the University of Copenhagen found that foetuses with balanced chromosomal aberrations have a higher risk of developing brain disorders such as autism and mental retardation than previously thought. The risk is 20% for these foetuses according to the study.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMay 25, 2018

All in the family: Relatives of Zika virus may cause birth defects

Researchers found that relatives of Zika virus can damage developing fetuses in mice and replicate in human tissues, raising concerns about other emerging viruses causing birth defects. The study suggests that flavivirus infections might cause pregnancy complications more frequently than previously appreciated.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 31, 2018

Like Zika, West Nile virus causes fetal brain damage, death in mice

A new study from Washington University School of Medicine found that West Nile and Powassan viruses can cause brain damage and fetal death in mice, similar to Zika. The study suggests that these flaviviruses may also pose a risk to developing fetuses in humans.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 31, 2018

How Zika infection drives fetal demise

A powerful antiviral protein acts as a checkpoint for keeping or ending pregnancy. Mouse fetuses with the protein commit cell suicide when exposed to Zika virus, while those without it continue to develop. The study suggests that this signaling pathway plays a role in spontaneous abortions and other human pregnancy complications.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalScience Immunology·DateJan 5, 2018
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.

Obesity during pregnancy may lead directly to fetal overgrowth, NIH study suggests

A recent NIH study found that obese pregnant women are more likely to give birth to large infants, with fetuses experiencing longer bones and higher birth weights. This increased fetal growth may predispose these infants to obesity and cardiovascular disease later in life.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateNov 13, 2017

Study shows language development starts in the womb

Researchers at University of Kansas have discovered that fetuses can discriminate between languages with distinct rhythmic properties, suggesting language development may start in the womb. The study uses magnetocardiogram technology to measure fetal heart rate responses to speech sounds, revealing an early sensitivity to language rhythm.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalNeuroreport·DateJul 18, 2017

Developing fetuses react to face-like shapes from the womb

Researchers found that fetuses at 34 weeks gestation turn their heads to look at face-like images, indicating a possible instinctual preference for faces. This discovery suggests that babies' preference for faces begins in the womb and does not require learning or experience after birth.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 8, 2017
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.

Study found brain abnormalities in fetuses exposed to Zika

Researchers discovered a reduction in brain tissue and increased fluid accumulation in the upper brain of Zika-infected fetuses. The study, which included 7 cases, found a significant difference in total brain volume and intracranial volume between Zika-exposed fetuses and healthy controls.

SourceSociety for Maternal-Fetal Medicine·DateJan 23, 2017
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.

New report details pre- and postnatal brain defects from Zika virus

The study found that nearly all babies with confirmed and presumed Zika infections had ventriculomegaly, gray and white matter volume loss, and cortical migrational abnormalities. Imaging exams also revealed intracranial calcifications and reduced tissue volume in the brain.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateAug 23, 2016

Investigating potential fetal exposure to antidepressants

Researchers studied exposure to antidepressants in mice, finding that SSRIs like citalopram rapidly transfer to fetuses and brains. The study's findings suggest potential risks for children of mothers taking these medications during pregnancy.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Chemical Neuroscience·DateFeb 3, 2016
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Competition between mothers starts in the womb, new study suggests

A new study published in Scientific Reports found that female mongooses respond to reproductive competition by producing bigger pups. The research, led by Emma Inzani, used ultrasound scans to measure prenatal investment in wild banded mongooses and discovered a link between competition and fetal growth.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 1, 2016

Intra-uterine surgery for at-risk fetuses

Advanced laser surgery and echocardiography predict fetal development and survival in complicated monochorionic twin pregnancies. Dr. Audibert presents results from 115 treated cases, exploring the usefulness of these techniques to improve outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·DateOct 13, 2015

NIH study finds racial, ethnic differences in fetal growth

A new NIH study found significant racial and ethnic disparities in fetal growth, with minority fetuses scoring below the 5th percentile due to hereditary and environmental factors. This could lead to unnecessary tests and procedures for healthy pregnant women of color.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateSep 29, 2015

Scan may identify best candidates for fetal spina bifida surgery

A recent NIH-funded study found that fetuses with enlarged ventricles may be less likely to benefit from in-utero surgery for spina bifida, suggesting a wait-and-watch approach may be better. Enlarged brain cavities are associated with a higher risk of needing a second surgery after birth.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·DateSep 15, 2015
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.

Study may identify new cause of brain bleeds in fetuses and newborns

Researchers found that the immune system's attack on new blood vessel cells in fetuses may be responsible for life-threatening brain bleeds. This discovery challenges the previous belief that low platelet counts were the cause of fetal brain bleeds, suggesting a need for alternative therapies.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 23, 2015

Study looks at the impact of fetal gender on the risk of preterm birth

A Dutch nationwide study found that male fetuses were at increased risk of spontaneous preterm birth, particularly between 28-31 weeks. Additionally, male fetuses were more likely to experience prelabor rupture of membranes between 26-37 weeks, leading to higher neonatal morbidity rates.

SourceSociety for Maternal-Fetal Medicine·DateFeb 2, 2015

Researchers identify link between fetal growth and risk of stillbirth

Researchers identified a link between fetal growth and the risk of stillbirth, finding that fetuses with restricted or excessive growth had a higher risk. The study suggests that obstetricians should focus on identifying fetuses at the extremes of growth for prevention strategies.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateApr 22, 2014
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.

Device may help doctors diagnose lethal heart rhythm in womb

A new technology has been developed to diagnose and possibly treat a deadly heart condition in unborn babies. The magnetic EKG, or magnetocardiogram, was used to diagnose long QT syndrome in fetuses with 89% accuracy, identifying those at risk of life-threatening arrhythmias.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 11, 2013

Babies can learn their first lullabies in the womb

A study of 24 pregnant women found that fetuses who heard Twinkle Twinkle Little Star reacted strongly to the melody both immediately and four months after birth. This suggests that fetuses can recognize and remember sounds from the outside world, with potential implications for early rehabilitation.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 30, 2013

Babies learn to anticipate touch in the womb

Fetuses show increased sensitivity to mouth movements as pregnancy progresses, suggesting anticipation rather than reaction. This could be an indicator of healthy development and preparedness for feeding, social interaction, and self-soothing.

SourceDurham University·JournalDevelopmental Psychobiology·DateOct 7, 2013
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.

MRI autopsies could offer alternative to conventional techniques

A large-scale study found that minimally invasive MRI autopsies accurately determined the cause of death for 92% of fetuses and babies younger than one year. However, accuracy decreased for children aged 1-16 years, with only half of cases agreeing on cause of death. The study suggests that MRI may not detect infections in this age group.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 15, 2013

Abnormal brain development in fetuses of obese women

Researchers found abnormal gene expression in fetuses of obese women, suggesting potential effects on brain development. The study suggests that maternal obesity may contribute to neurodevelopmental abnormalities in children.

SourceSociety for Maternal-Fetal Medicine·DateFeb 11, 2013

U-M study shows BPA exposure in fetal livers

Researchers at U-M found BPA in fetal liver tissue, with varying levels of exposure detected. The study suggests that fetuses may not be able to metabolize BPA as effectively as adults, highlighting the importance of understanding internal doses for health effects.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Biochemical and Molecular Toxicology·DateDec 3, 2012
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.

Fetuses yawn in the womb, according to new research

New research from Durham University found that over half of mouth openings in fetuses were classified as yawns, suggesting a developmental process linked to fetal health. Yawning declined in frequency after 28 weeks gestation, potentially providing another indicator of the unborn baby's health.

SourceDurham University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 21, 2012

Human brains outpace chimp brains in the womb

A new study tracked brain growth in human and chimpanzee fetuses, finding that human brains begin to show remarkable differences after 22 weeks of gestation. The findings suggest a faster rate of brain growth in humans compared to chimpanzees.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 24, 2012

Vaginal delivery as safe as cesarean for most early preterm births

A new study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that vaginal delivery is comparable to cesarean delivery for early preterm births presenting head first. However, breech presentations resulted in high failure rates and significantly lower neonatal mortality with planned cesarean delivery.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateAug 6, 2012

Dangerous experiment in fetal engineering

A new paper reveals the off-label use of dexamethasone to engineer fetal sex in pregnant women at risk for congenital adrenal hyperplasia. The synthetic steroid is known to cause significant developmental changes, raising questions about the ethics of prenatal experimentation.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Bioethical Inquiry·DateAug 2, 2012
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.

Seeing double: 1 in 30 babies born in US is a twin

The incidence of twin births in the US has increased significantly over the past three decades, with one in every 30 babies born being a twin in 2009. Fertility treatments are a key factor in this increase, accounting for two-thirds of the rise.

SourceMichigan State University·DateApr 2, 2012