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A map to study the behavior of early pancreas cells

Researchers developed a methodology to link gene activity with cellular behavior in human pancreas cells, revealing the dynamic behaviors of pancreatic cells and their role in diabetes. The study shows that certain genes, such as NEUROG3, are active for short periods during development and have implications for therapeutic applications.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics (MPI-CBG)·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 31, 2023

Prevalence of disabilities for older Black & White Americans plummeted from 2008 to 2017

The study found a significant decline in the prevalence of serious later-life cognitive impairments among Black Americans, narrowing racial disparities. However, racial disparities persisted in activities of daily living and functional limitations. Improved air quality may have contributed to the narrowing of disparities in cognitive i...

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalAging and Human Development·TypeSurvey·DateAug 29, 2023

Bonobos grow similarly to humans

Researchers found pronounced growth spurts in both body weight and length in bonobos, mirroring patterns seen in humans. The study's scale-corrected approach revealed similar hormone surges and corresponding growth curves in both species, highlighting a potential evolutionary connection.

SourceDeutsches Primatenzentrum (DPZ)/German Primate Center·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 24, 2023
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.

Wellcome Sanger Institute: Multiple organ functions of yolk sac revealed by early human development map

Researchers from the Wellcome Sanger Institute mapped the multiple organ functions of the human yolk sac, revealing its role in producing key hormones and blood cells. The study provides novel insights into the earliest stages of immune cell development and has implications for understanding childhood diseases.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateAug 17, 2023

Race-based variations in gut bacteria emerge by 3 months of age

A study reveals that racial differences in gut microbiome composition arise after 3 months of age and persist through childhood. Early social and environmental exposures play a significant role in shaping the gut microbiome, with research suggesting that environmental and social factors contribute to health disparities.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 17, 2023

Stem-cell derived organoids secrete tooth enamel proteins

Researchers successfully created stem-cell derived organoids from human stem cells that secrete three essential enamel proteins. These proteins form a matrix that undergoes mineralization to create a hardened enamel structure. The breakthrough offers hope for developing novel treatments to repair and regenerate teeth.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalDevelopmental Cell·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 14, 2023

Next-day effects of heavy drinking on young adults the focus of NIH grant

A two-year NIH-funded study led by Penn State associate research professor Ashley Linden-Carmichael examines the next-day effects of heavy drinking on young adults' daily cognitive functioning. The study will collect intensive self-reported data from 250 participants to explore the impact of alcohol use on memory and other cognitive fu...

SourcePenn State·DateAug 10, 2023
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 aims to assess impact of physical activity intervention on cognitive development of young children in low socioeconomic areas

A University of Massachusetts Amherst kinesiologist is implementing a physical activity program for young children in preschools with low socioeconomic status. The pilot study aims to measure the impact on cognitive development and gross motor skills, with potential long-term implications for health disparities.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateAug 4, 2023

Bilingualism as a catalyst for social development in children

Children with greater language diversity are more sensitive to contextual factors when assessing an informant's reliability. This study found that bilingual children selectively trust informants who have provided accurate cues in the past, but not those who provide inaccurate cues. Bilingualism may enhance social-cognitive development ...

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalBilingualism Language and Cognition·DateJul 24, 2023

Study: How mother and infant sleep patterns interact during the first two years of life

The study found two distinct groups: low maternal sleep (5-6 hours/night) and average maternal sleep (7-8 hours/night). Children in the low maternal sleep group slept less. Establishing early bedtime routines and consistent sleep patterns improved sleep duration and reduced sleep problems.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·TypeObservational study·DateJul 21, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Hardship affects the gut microbiome across generations

Research found that mothers' childhood experiences and pregnancy anxiety are reflected in their 2-year-old children's gut microbiomes, with smaller populations of microorganisms and reduced genetic diversity. These changes may influence children's socioemotional development and brain-gut microbiome connection.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 2023
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.

Baby opera: Study finds babies get a kick out of live music

A study found that babies watching live music had higher heart rates and were more engaged than those watching recordings, even with identical audio. The researchers tracked the babies' responses using heart monitors and tablets, and noted that the live performance captured their attention for 72% of the show.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalPsychology of Aesthetics Creativity and the Arts·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 14, 2023

For prematurely born infants, cow colostrum can be used to supplement mother´s own milk

New studies show cow colostrum can reduce infant formula use and strengthen mother's milk in premature babies, providing essential nutrients like amino acids. Researchers hope to optimize cow colostrum product for critical first few weeks after birth.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalClinical Nutrition·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 11, 2023

THC use during pregnancy linked to changes in fetal development

Research suggests that consuming THC during pregnancy can alter the placental and fetal epigenome, leading to changes in gene regulation and expression associated with neurobehavioral disorders. The study's findings highlight the need for better understanding of the potential long-term health impacts of prenatal cannabis exposure.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalClinical Epigenetics·DateJul 6, 2023
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.

Tobacco smoke exposure may increase heavy metal levels in children’s saliva

Researchers at Penn State found a significant association between salivary cotinine and heavy metals such as copper, zinc, lead, in children exposed to tobacco smoke. The study suggests that environmental tobacco smoke exposure may be a source of increased children's exposure to heavy metals.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology·DateJun 29, 2023

New model provides unprecedented window into human embryonic development

A groundbreaking model of human embryonic development has been created, offering a unique look at the molecular and cellular processes that occur during gastrulation stages. The model includes both embryonic and extraembryonic components, allowing researchers to study their interaction and potential new insights into pregnancy failures...

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateJun 27, 2023

Human embryo-like models created from stem cells to understand earliest stages of human development

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a stem cell-derived model of the human embryo, allowing for the experimental modeling of embryonic development during the second week of pregnancy. This breakthrough could help understand why and how pregnancies fail, and potentially lead to new treatments for genetic disorders.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 27, 2023

Innovative gene therapy may help treat a severe and fatal developmental epilepsy syndrome that affects children

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed an innovative gene therapy that shows promise in treating Dravet syndrome, a severe developmental epilepsy affecting children. The treatment was found to be effective in improving epilepsy, protecting against early death, and enhancing cognitive abilities.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 22, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Stem cell model of human brain development suggests embryonic origins of Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers used a stem cell model to study the effects of Alzheimer's disease-associated mutations on early human brain development, finding that mutant spheres were larger and contained fewer mature neurons. The study highlights the need for tailored therapies and paves the way for studying Alzheimer's in its early stages.

SourceInternational Society for Stem Cell Research·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateJun 22, 2023

Exploring the deep connections between adolescent sleep and overall health

Research by Fiona Baker of SRI's Human Sleep Lab highlights the deep connections between adolescent sleep and overall health. Studies have shown that poor sleep patterns can affect brain development, weight gain, cognitive decline, and socioemotional difficulties in adolescents.

SourceSRI International·JournalSleep Health·TypeObservational study·DateJun 20, 2023
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Abnormalities in neurodevelopment could lay the foundations for Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers found that the amyloid precursor protein (APP) regulates human neurogenesis, which could be linked to Alzheimer's disease. APP promotes a balance between stem cell proliferation and differentiation, suggesting its disruption may cause premature neurogenesis and cellular stress.

SourceInstitut du Cerveau (Paris Brain Institute)·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 16, 2023

Conflict in marriage less harmful for kids when dad keeps it constructive

A new study from the University of Illinois found that fathers who use constructive conflict resolution strategies show more involvement and warmth towards their children, leading to positive child development. This approach can help minimize stress and promote healthier family dynamics.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Family Psychology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 14, 2023
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.

Life before air conditioning: Curly hair kept early humans cool

Researchers found that tightly curled scalp hair provided the best protection from the sun's radiative heat while minimizing sweat. This adaptation enabled human brains to grow to modern-day sizes without conserving water through sweating.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 7, 2023

Pro-viral human protein critical for embryo development

Researchers discovered that ZC3H11A is essential for regulating metabolic genes in embryos and their absence leads to complete lethality. The study's findings suggest that ZC3 may be a promising therapeutic target for the development of anti-viral agents against medically significant human viruses.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2023

Researchers call for systemic changes to improve career prospects of young people with disabilities

A special issue of the Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation presents strategies to challenge the status quo that young people with disabilities face in employment. Research highlights the need for verification of evidence-based practices, competitive integrated employment, and increased utilization of vocational rehabilitation services.

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Vocational Rehabilitation·TypeObservational study·DateMay 22, 2023

Understanding the speed of brain communication

A study by Mayo Clinic researchers found that brain transmission speeds continue to increase into early adulthood, reaching a plateau around age 30-40. This may help clinicians offer therapies to treat disorders such as anxiety and depression that emerge during late adolescence and early adulthood.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMay 11, 2023

Basic ‘toolkit’ for organ development is illuminated by sea star

Scientists have defined a basic toolkit for forming tubular organs in animals, which is thought to be the foundation of organ development in vertebrates. The study uses the sea star as a model organism and reveals that cells can proliferate and migrate simultaneously during tube formation.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2023
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.

Detailed image of the human retina

Researchers have created a detailed map of human retinal organoid development, revealing information on cell types, proteins, and gene expression. The study uses advanced imaging techniques to visualize multiple proteins simultaneously and provides insights into retinal diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMay 8, 2023

Experimental model gets cells to behave as they would in utero

Researchers developed a self-organizing system that models key cellular processes involved in embryogenesis, shedding light on the self-organization of ectodermal cells during neurulation. The study could inform ways to prevent or counteract central nervous system birth defects by optimizing human ectodermal development.

SourceRice University·DateMay 8, 2023

Teachers who struggle to cope with stress report far lower job satisfaction, MU study finds

A new study found that teachers who struggle to cope with stress report far lower job satisfaction compared to those who manage their pressure effectively. The research highlights the importance of identifying and adopting healthy coping mechanisms to prevent teacher burnout, which contributes to many teachers leaving the profession.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalPsychology in the Schools·TypeSurvey·DateApr 10, 2023
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.

Penn Medicine study reveals new insights on brain development sequence through adolescence

A Penn Medicine study identified a developmental sequence in brain maturation during adolescence, revealing regions supporting cognitive and social functions remain malleable until late adolescence. The study found that socioeconomic environments have a significant impact on brain development in these regions.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateApr 10, 2023

A key mechanism that controls human heart development discovered

A specialized mRNA translation circuit controlled by protein RBPMS determines the competence for heart formation in human embryonic development. The study provides a better understanding of human cardiac development and reveals potential molecular targets for therapeutic interventions.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 30, 2023

Beneficial bacteria in the infant gut uses nitrogen from breast milk to support baby’s health

Researchers at UMass Amherst have discovered that beneficial microbes in infant gut use nitrogen from human milk to support pediatric nutrition and development. The study provides new insights into the molecular underpinnings of these processes, which could lead to improved infant health around the world.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalGut Microbes·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 27, 2023

Embryos’ development is delayed in pregnancies that end in miscarriage

Researchers have found that embryos in pregnancies ending in miscarriage take four days longer to develop in the womb than those in live births. This delay is associated with a higher likelihood of miscarriage and may be used to estimate pregnancy outcomes.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·TypeObservational study·DateMar 26, 2023
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.

At least 80% of the world’s most important sites for biodiversity on land currently contain human developments, study finds

A study by researchers from BirdLife International, WWF, and the University of Cambridge found that 80% of key biodiversity areas (KBAs) on land contain infrastructure, which is a significant driver of threats to biodiversity. The prevalence of infrastructure in KBAs is likely to increase due to planned developments.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBiological Conservation·DateMar 22, 2023

Trauma causes high levels of intergenerational substance use among Black women

A new study found that trauma leads to high levels of intergenerational substance use among Black women, with 30% increased odds of drug use and 40% increased odds of Child Protective Services cases. The researchers also highlighted the importance of understanding the prevalence and impacts of these issues among minority populations.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Substance Use and Addiction Treatment·DateFeb 27, 2023
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.

Target the microbiome to improve child undernutrition, says researchers

Research suggests that targeting gut microbiome development, rather than just human nutritional needs, can more effectively improve child growth and development. Genetic functions of gut microbes can predict how well a child is growing, providing a new target for interventions.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 14, 2023

Single dose of common antibiotic reduces mothers’ risk of death during childbirth, study finds

A single dose of azithromycin has been shown to decrease sepsis and death by half in women in labor, making it an important tool for keeping mothers safe before, during, and after delivery. The antibiotic was found to be beneficial for vaginal childbirth as well, reducing mortality rates and the risk of developing sepsis.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 9, 2023
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.

Poly(A)-tail-mediated remodeling of maternal mRNA controls start of life

Researchers discovered poly(A)-tail-mediated remodeling of maternal mRNA during the oocyte-to-embryo transition, involving partial degradation and re-polyadenylation. This process is essential for human embryo development, as blocked re-polyadenylation leads to failed first embryo cleavage.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 18, 2023

Spontaneous baby movements have purpose

Researchers found that spontaneous movements in newborns and infants develop patterns of muscle interaction, enabling them to perform sequential movements as infants. This study provides insight into the origin of human movement and may lead to earlier diagnosis of developmental disorders.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateDec 26, 2022

Sculpting the human body plan in a dish

Scientists at ASHBi have successfully generated a 3D model that recapitulates the early stages of human body plan development, including somite formation and axial skeleton development. The study revealed the importance of retinoids in this process and demonstrated its potential for understanding congenital spine disease.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2022

Scientists' use of hydrogel materials leads to stem cells developing like human embryos

Researchers at UNSW Sydney have successfully induced a gastrulation-like event in human pluripotent stem cells, mimicking the early stages of embryonic development. This breakthrough could lead to new approaches for studying human development and creating personalized body tissue or organs using hydrogel materials.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022

Effects of antidepressants taken during pregnancy are poorly understood, scientists note

A review of over 100 scientific articles suggests that the safety of antidepressants during pregnancy is endorsed by science, but their effects on fetal neurodevelopment are poorly understood. Brazilian researchers propose using lab-grown mini-brains to investigate this impact and identify potential alterations.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalSeminars in Cell and Developmental Biology·TypeSystematic review·DateDec 13, 2022
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.

Reading the room: Humans struggle to identify aggression in dogs, other humans

Researchers found that while humans excel at categorizing interactions between humans, dogs, and monkeys, they struggle to predict aggressive behaviors in both species. Participants performed poorly on identifying aggression in dogs and humans, suggesting a potential bias towards assuming good intentions from others.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2022

Brain organoids reveal in detail the harms of prenatal alcohol exposure

A new study using human brain organoids reveals that prenatal alcohol exposure impairs brain cell development and functioning. The findings confirm the harm inflicted by alcohol on the developing fetus, with effects including faulty brain architecture and impaired electrical activity patterns.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateNov 18, 2022

Gene plays important role in embryonic development

Researchers identified SHROOM4 gene's role in human embryonic development and its link to congenital malformations. The study found that altering the gene can cause various organ system malformations.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalJournal of Medical Genetics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2022
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.