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Can parents' tech obsessions contribute to a child's bad behavior?

A new study found that even low amounts of digital technology interruptions by parents can cause greater child behavior issues such as oversensitivity and hyperactivity. Researchers suggest carving out technology-free times for family bonding and reducing device use during parent-child activities.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalChild Development·DateMay 24, 2017

Cowbird moms choosy when selecting foster parents for their young

Brown-headed cowbirds prefer larger host nests with smaller-than-average eggs to increase their offspring's chances of survival. Researchers found that female cowbirds adjust the allocation of resources in their eggs based on perceived environmental conditions, but not host species or size variations.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalOecologia·DateMay 23, 2017

Friends help female vampire bats cope with loss

Researchers found that female vampire bats who invest in non-kin friendships cope better when a major food donor is removed from their social network. They score more food than those who only focus on close kin relationships.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalBiology Letters·DateMay 23, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Parents' reasons for not vaccinating children influence public attitudes toward them

A new study found that mothers who refuse to vaccinate their children are viewed more negatively than those who delay vaccines due to safety concerns. Researchers used an online survey to examine attitudes toward under-vaccinated children and their parents, revealing stigmatization regardless of reason for non-compliance.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateMay 23, 2017

Improving health care for mother and child, doing fewer cesareans and ... saving money!

A training program evaluating clinical best practices and self-assessment reduced medically unnecessary caesareans by a slight margin without adverse effects on maternal and neonatal health. The program generated significant savings for the healthcare system, primarily due to better case management leading to fewer neonatal complications.

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateMay 21, 2017

100-year-old fertility technique reduces need for IVF

A 100-year-old medical technique, hysterosalpingography (HSG), has been proven to increase fertility rates in infertile women. Using an iodised poppy seed oil solution significantly improves pregnancy rates within six months, with 40% of women achieving successful pregnancies compared to 29% with water-based solution.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 18, 2017
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.

Year-round flu vaccinations promote healthier infants in subtropics

Vaccinating pregnant mothers year-round against flu in Nepal reduced infant flu virus infection rates by an average of 30 percent, increasing birth weights by 15 percent. The study also found that expanding year-round flu vaccinations during pregnancy would benefit children in other tropical and subtropical parts of the world.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateMay 15, 2017

Unborn rays traumatized when their mothers are captured: World-first study finds

A world-first study found that pregnant rays are traumatized by capture, impacting their reproductive potential and offspring health. The study, led by Leonardo Guida, examined the southern fiddler ray and found that trawl capture can affect fetal development, leading to smaller, lighter offspring with compromised immune systems.

SourceMonash University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 15, 2017
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.

Physician moms are often subject to workplace discrimination

A survey of 5,782 physician mothers found that 78% experienced discrimination, with forms ranging from disrespect and reduced pay to being overlooked for promotions. Employers can mitigate this by implementing policies like longer paid maternity leaves, backup child care, lactation support, and schedule flexibility.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 8, 2017

Discrimination reported in survey of online group of physician moms

A survey of physician moms found nearly 4 out of 5 respondents experienced discrimination, with gender and maternal discrimination prevalent. Women who reported maternal discrimination were more likely to value changes like longer paid maternity leave and breastfeeding support.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 8, 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.

Psychological benefits for kids when mums keep taking folic acid

Research by Ulster University found that mothers taking folic acid supplements throughout pregnancy had children with higher levels of emotional intelligence and resilience. The study also showed a correlation between the level of folic acid in mothers' blood and their child's resilience.

SourceBritish Psychological Society·DateMay 3, 2017

Prenatal cocaine exposure increases risk of higher teen drug use

Children exposed to cocaine in the womb are more susceptible to addiction due to trouble controlling behaviors and emotions. Many teens in the study showed poor coping strategies, leading to acting out behaviors like substance use, tobacco, and alcohol abuse.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateMay 3, 2017

Mother's family history could pose risk for preterm birth -- Ben-Gurion U. study

A new study by Ben-Gurion University researchers found that pregnant women with a family history of premature births are at higher risk of preterm delivery. The study followed 2,300 mothers and daughters over 22 years and found that the risk was significantly higher among those whose mothers had given birth early in their pregnancies.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalAmerican Journal of Perinatology·DateApr 27, 2017

Want to better comply with dietary guidelines, and save money? Cook dinner at home

A study by Oregon State University researchers found that households cooking at home three times a week scored an average of 67 on the Healthy Eating Index, compared to 74 for those cooking six times a week. This suggests that eating home-cooked dinners is associated with better diet quality and lower calorie intake.

SourceOregon State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateApr 26, 2017
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.

'Whispering' keeps humpbacks safe from killer whales, study finds

Researchers discovered that newborn humpback whales communicate with their mothers using intimate grunts and squeaks to avoid being overheard by killer whales. The study found that these quiet calls help mother-calf pairs stay together in murky waters, reducing the risk of attracting male humpbacks.

SourceAarhus University·JournalFunctional Ecology·DateApr 25, 2017

Facing nightmare scenarios before discharge lifts confidence of parents of babies in NICU

A University at Buffalo study found that simulations of daily care and nightmare scenarios increased the confidence of parents of newborns in the NICU by nearly 30%. The Neonatal Home Environment Learning Program (HELP) used infant simulators to recreate real-life situations, allowing parents to rehearse and experience behaviors, conse...

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalMCN The American Journal of Maternal/Child Nursing·DateApr 24, 2017
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Immature spinner dolphin calf SCUBA tanks spell disaster in tuna fisheries

Research shows that ocean-going spinner dolphin calves do not develop physical characteristics essential for sustaining deep dives as quickly as shallow-diving coastal species. This slow development may lead to mother-calf separations during tuna purse-seine fisheries, posing a significant threat to dolphin populations.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateApr 19, 2017

Opioid use disorder in pregnancy -- medication treatment improves outcomes for mothers and infants

A research review and update suggests that medication for addiction treatment (MAT) is an appropriate treatment for pregnant women with opioid use disorder (OUD), reducing opioid use, promoting abstinence, and aiding recovery. Comprehensive care programs supporting mothers and infants are crucial for sustained recovery.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Addiction Medicine·DateApr 14, 2017

Crooked bite may indicate early life stress

University of Washington researchers find that an asymmetric lower face may indicate early life stress, with one in four US adolescents showing such asymmetries. The study used data from the National Health Examination Survey to investigate lower-face asymmetry as a potential marker for developmental instability.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Biology·DateApr 13, 2017
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.

Scientists tag humpback whales in southeast Pacific

Scientists tagged 47 humpback whales with satellite transmitters in the southeast Pacific to understand their breeding area movements. The study revealed that individuals move between countries within the breeding season and that their entire breeding area extends approximately 2,600 kilometers of non-straight coastline.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalAquatic Mammals·DateApr 13, 2017

Maternal stress during pregnancy could influence the biological clock for ageing

A new study published in Neuropsychopharmacology found that maternal stress during pregnancy may influence the biological clock for ageing in children. Telomere length in newborns was found to be shorter in mothers who experienced increased psychosocial stress, suggesting a potential link between maternal stress and premature ageing.

SourceSpringer·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·DateApr 11, 2017

Logging threatens breeding turtles

Research by the University of Exeter found that logging debris on beaches in Colombia is impacting breeding turtles' movement and survival. The study revealed that females with high amounts of debris were more likely to be wounded or have eggs at risk due to flooding.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateApr 10, 2017

Ideal for kangaroos -- out of the pouch, but still living at home

Young kangaroos who spend more time alone with their mothers have a higher chance of surviving in the wild. They also tend to be larger and heavier than their peers when they spend more time with their mother, according to a recent study published in Springer's journal Behavioral Ecology and Sociobiology.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateApr 5, 2017
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.

High fat, high sugar diet during pregnancy 'programs' for health complications

A study found that a high-fat, high-sugar diet during pregnancy can disrupt metabolic processes, leading to poor glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. This may program the mother for potential health complications, such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease, later in life.

SourceSt. John's College, University of Cambridge·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateApr 5, 2017

Are looks more important than personality when choosing a man?

A study found that mothers and their daughters prefer physically attractive men, regardless of personality traits. Daughters are pickier than their parents, while mothers view even unattractive men as potentially desirable partners for their daughters.

SourceSpringer·JournalEvolutionary Psychological Science·DateApr 4, 2017

Progesterone and bisexuality: Is there a link?

A study found that men and women whose mothers received additional doses of progesterone while pregnant were significantly less likely to identify as heterosexual. They also showed higher rates of same-sex attraction and behavior, suggesting a potential link between prenatal progesterone exposure and human sexuality.

SourceSpringer·JournalArchives of Sexual Behavior·DateApr 3, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Technique for 'three-parent baby' revealed

A pioneering IVF technique has enabled the birth of a healthy baby boy, providing hope for families with inheritable mitochondrial disorders. The mother's mutation load was well below the expected threshold for the condition, paving the way for further research and potential changes in law and regulation.

SourceElsevier·JournalReproductive BioMedicine Online·DateApr 3, 2017

Egg-sitting glassfrogs create safe exit for tadpoles

Researchers observed glassfrogs sitting on their eggs for up to five hours after laying them, absorbing water and hydrating the jelly-coated embryos. The study found that every species of glassfrog cares for its eggs, with mothers tending to theirs immediately after laying and fathers taking over later.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalJournal of Evolutionary Biology·DateMar 31, 2017

Glassfrogs show surprising diversity of parental strategies

Biologists observed nighttime parental behavior in 40 species of glassfrogs, finding that mothers typically provide minimal care, while fathers take on more extensive roles. This surprising diversity challenges previous assumptions about sex role evolution.

SourceBoston University·JournalJournal of Evolutionary Biology·DateMar 31, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

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.

New study: Pre-pregnancy BMI directly linked to excess pregnancy weight gain

A new study published in PLOS ONE found that pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) is directly linked to excess weight gain during pregnancy, especially among young mothers. The research also showed that Hispanic women are less likely to experience excessive weight gain compared to non-Hispanic women.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 21, 2017

Older mothers are better mothers

Research suggests that older mothers have a positive impact on their children's upbringing, with fewer behavioral and emotional problems at ages 7 and 11. However, this advantage declines before age 15.

SourceAarhus University·JournalEuropean Journal of Developmental Psychology·DateMar 21, 2017
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.

High folic acid level in pregnancy may decrease high blood pressure in children

A new study finds that babies born to mothers with cardiometabolic risk factors had lower systolic blood pressure if their mothers had higher folate levels during pregnancy. Children with elevated systolic blood pressure were more likely to have mothers with pre-pregnancy obesity, hypertensive disorders, and diabetes.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalAmerican Journal of Hypertension·DateMar 8, 2017

What effect does prenatal and postpartum maternal depression have on children?

A large study of Norwegian families found that prenatal and postpartum maternal depression have varying effects on children's psychological development. Concurrent maternal depressive symptoms during preschool years are particularly detrimental to emotional and behavioral problems in young children.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateFeb 24, 2017

Researchers reverse high blood pressure in offspring of hypertensive rats

In a groundbreaking study, researchers at the University of Iowa have shown that gestational hypertension can be reversed in offspring born to hypertensive rats. The study's findings may offer a promising approach to addressing fetal programming and preventing the transfer of health risks from mothers to children.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalHYPERTENSION·DateFeb 22, 2017
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.

New behavioral therapy to support Japanese mothers of children with ADHD

Researchers at OIST have adapted a parent-training program for ADHD to support Japanese families, resulting in reduced child symptoms and improved parent-child relationships. The study suggests that the new program could become an effective mainstream treatment for ADHD in Japan.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalJapanese Psychological Research·DateFeb 21, 2017

How humans bond: The brain chemistry revealed

A new study by Northeastern University psychologist Lisa Feldman Barrett found that the neurotransmitter dopamine plays a crucial role in human bonding. The research, which used a novel technology to scan mothers' brains while interacting with their infants, showed that strong social relationships can improve outcomes for individuals w...

SourceNortheastern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 17, 2017

Mothers and infants connect through song

Research from UM Frost School of Music found that infant-directed singing fosters a strong bond between mothers and infants. Engaging infants through song stimulates their attention, while also benefiting the mother by providing a distraction from negative emotions and thoughts associated with postpartum depression.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalJournal of Music Therapy·DateFeb 16, 2017
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.

Is preeclampsia a risk or a protective factor in retinopathy of prematurity?

Researchers found that preeclampsia in pregnant rats led to less severe retinopathy and normal retinal vascular development in offspring. The combination of preeclampsia and oxygen fluctuations reduced features of ROP. Growth factors needed for retina development came from the pups, not the mothers.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 15, 2017

Scheme's success at stopping mums-to-be smoking

A new study found that pregnant women who were supported to quit smoking through the 'BabyClear' programme had heavier, healthier babies. The programme, which screens all pregnant women for smoking using carbon monoxide monitoring, led to a doubling of the number of women who quit smoking during pregnancy.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalTobacco Control·DateFeb 15, 2017

Study of over 700,000 births shows increased risk of poor outcomes, including death, for babies born to mothers with gestational diabetes

A new study published in Diabetologia found that babies born to mothers with gestational diabetes have a higher risk of preterm birth, Caesarean section, and cardiac malformations. The study also revealed an increased risk of death for newborns born to mothers with insulin-treated gestational diabetes.

SourceDiabetologia·JournalDiabetologia·DateFeb 15, 2017

Fossil discovery rewrites understanding of reproductive evolution

A remarkable 250 million-year-old fossil found in China shows an embryo inside the mother, providing clear evidence for live birth. The discovery rewrites the understanding of reproductive evolution in a wide group containing birds, crocodilians, dinosaurs, and pterosaurs.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 14, 2017
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.

Only a limited HIV subset moves from mother to child, study shows

A limited subset of HIV strains can be transmitted from mothers to children, but these viruses are generally shorter and have fewer sugars attached, making them less likely to be neutralized by the immune system. This study highlights the need for different strategies to prevent transmission during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalRetrovirology·DateFeb 14, 2017