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Research links prenatal stress to babies' health in war zones

Researchers discovered a link between prenatal stress and lower birth weight in children born to mothers experiencing trauma in war-torn regions. The study also found that stressful life experiences can affect genes involved in the body's response to stress, with long-term consequences for child development.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalChild Development·DateFeb 2, 2016

Study strengthens evidence linking autism to maternal obesity-diabetes

Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center found a strong link between autism and maternal obesity-diabetes, with pregnant mothers 1.5 times more likely to have a child with ASD. The study used electronic medical records and analyzed birth data from over 35,000 mothers.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalAutism Research·DateFeb 1, 2016

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

How severe maternal inflammation can lead to autism-like behavior

Researchers found that immune cells activated during severe maternal inflammation produce IL-17, which interferes with brain development. Blocking this signal restored normal behavior and brain structure in mice. The study suggests a possible mechanism for how maternal infection may lead to autism-like behavior.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateJan 28, 2016
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.

Breastfeeding could add $300 billion into the global economy

Research finds that breastfeeding can add billions to the global economy by preventing child deaths and improving cognitive abilities. Globally, improved breastfeeding rates could prevent 820,000 child deaths annually and save over $2.45 billion in treatment costs.

SourceGMMB·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 28, 2016

Research: Many Latino kids struggle to reach a healthy weight by kindergarten

Research shows that Latino kids are more likely to be obese by ages 2-5 due to maternal obesity, less exclusive breastfeeding, and workplace issues. Breastfeeding can reduce obesity by 47 percent among Latino kids, but many Latina moms face barriers to initiating and maintaining breastfeeding.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio·DateJan 26, 2016
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.

Moms, you think babies are tough? Wait until middle school

A study by Arizona State University researchers found that middle school years are a challenging time for mothers, with increased stress and depression. The authors suggest two interventions to minimize mother's stress: early information dissemination and ongoing support.

SourceArizona State University·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateJan 21, 2016

The reproductive and survival benefits of mothers and grandmothers in elephants

A study of African elephants found that mothers and grandmothers provide significant reproductive and survival benefits to their daughters and grandchildren. Grandmothers' social knowledge and environmental conditions significantly impact calf survival, while early birth years and maternal age also play a role in determining reproducti...

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateJan 19, 2016

Mothers' comments linked to eating disorders in Asian young adults

A study found that negative comments from mothers have a significant impact on Asian young adults' self-image, regardless of gender. The research team is now calling for a more tailored approach to treatment, as the Western approach adopted in Singapore may not be effective.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBody Image·DateJan 14, 2016
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.

Interaction during reading is key to language development

A University of Iowa study found that babies made more speech-like sounds during book reading than during puppet play or toy play, and mothers were more responsive to these sounds while reading. This interaction is crucial for language development in young children.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalLanguage Learning and Development·DateJan 8, 2016

Put the cellphone away! Fragmented baby care can affect brain development

A study by University of California, Irvine researchers found that inconsistent maternal care can lead to increased risk of risky behaviors, drug seeking, and depression in adolescents and adults. The study suggests that predictable and consistent care is crucial for proper brain development.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateJan 5, 2016

What are the risks of giving birth inside and outside a hospital setting?

A new study found that out-of-hospital births in Oregon were associated with a higher risk of perinatal death, while in-hospital births were linked to increased cesarean deliveries and other obstetric interventions. However, the overall risk for perinatal death was low in all settings.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 30, 2015

Mothers should be cautious when discussing weight with daughters

A recent study published in Body Image found that mothers who discussed their own weight concerns with their daughters were more likely to encourage healthy habits. The study suggests that avoiding conversations about weight altogether may be the best approach for promoting long-term well-being.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalBody Image·DateDec 22, 2015
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.

Mothers-to-be and babies benefit from group prenatal care, study finds

A Yale University study found that group prenatal care substantially improves health outcomes for both mothers and their infants. Women who received group care had lower rates of small birth size, preterm delivery, and low birthweight compared to those with individual care.

SourceYale University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateDec 21, 2015

Despite poaching, elephants' social networks hold steady

Researchers found that elephants' social networks remained resilient due to the ability of daughters to fill their mothers' roles, driven by vertical transmission of social roles. This adaptability provides optimism for elephant recovery from human disturbance once pressure is alleviated.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 17, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Timing of first childbirth influences women's health at age 40

A new study by Ohio State University researchers found that women who had their first child in early adulthood tend to report worse health at midlife than those who waited until they were older. Single black women, in particular, face worse health if they get married after having a child outside of marriage.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateDec 14, 2015

Timing of first childbirth influences women's health at age 40

A new study found that women who had their first child in their early 20s didn't report better health at midlife than those who waited until they were over 24. In fact, single black women who had a child and later married reported worse health at midlife compared to those who stayed single.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateDec 14, 2015

Poorer children nearly 3 times as likely to be obese, new study finds

A new study found that poorer children are almost twice as likely to be obese at age 5 and nearly triple the risk by age 11. The researchers linked relative poverty to childhood obesity, highlighting the importance of early intervention and environmental factors in addressing socioeconomic inequalities.

SourceOxford University Press UK·JournalEuropean Journal of Public Health·DateDec 10, 2015

Incarcerated mothers impact children's future criminal involvement

A Sam Houston State University study found that children of incarcerated mothers are more likely to experience attachment disruptions, separation anxiety, and depression. The study also showed a significant link between maternal incarceration and adult offspring's involvement in the criminal justice system.

SourceSam Houston State University·JournalJournal of Research in Crime and Delinquency·DateDec 2, 2015

Blood from small children 'remembers' prenatal smoking exposure

Research led by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health finds that blood from preschoolers contains molecular evidence of prenatal smoking exposure, detectable 5 years post-birth. The study uses epigenetic analysis to identify a signature associated with smoking during pregnancy, which may also be linked to other toxins and hea...

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateNov 23, 2015
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.

Interpersonal communication key to daughters' well-being

A recent study by University of Missouri professor Haley Horstman found that daughters 're-author' stories about adversity over time, increasing their positivity through narrative. This change in storytelling can lead to improved mother-daughter interpersonal relationships and well-being.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalCommunication Monographs·DateNov 18, 2015

Mother's age at birth may influence symptoms of depression in daughters

A study published by the American Psychological Association found that younger mothers are less likely to experience depression and anxiety symptoms. Daughters of women who give birth at 30 or older are more likely to report higher levels of stress, depression, and anxiety as young adults.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Abnormal Psychology·DateNov 17, 2015

PFOA exposure in utero linked to child adiposity and faster BMI gain

Children exposed to high levels of PFOA during pregnancy experience rapid body fat gain and higher body fat by age 8 compared to those with lower exposure. The study found a significant association between prenatal PFOA levels and childhood adiposity, raising concerns about potential effects on type 2 diabetes.

SourceBrown University·JournalObesity·DateNov 11, 2015
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.

Study finds 75 percent of first-time moms plan to follow vaccine schedule

A recent study by the CDC and University of Georgia found that 75% of first-time expectant mothers planned to follow the recommended childhood immunization schedule. Most undecided mothers had low levels of confidence in vaccines, suggesting targeted outreach may be needed.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateNov 5, 2015
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.

Substantial differences in obstetric care for First Nations women in Canada: BC study

A Canadian study found significant disparities in obstetric care between First Nations and non-First Nations women, with First Nations mothers being less likely to undergo labour induction, epidural, or cesarean delivery. These differences may contribute to higher infant mortality rates among First Nations populations.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 2, 2015

Teen sex talks with parents, especially moms, associated with safer sex

Research suggests that parent-adolescent communication is positively linked to safer sex behavior. The study found a small but significant association between parent communication and contraceptive use, which was stronger for girls than boys. Open communication about sex can help delay sexual debut and reduce the risk of sexually trans...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateNov 2, 2015
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.

UTMB study finds obese pregnant women who lose weight save money, have healthier newborns

A recent UTMB study found that severely obese pregnant women who maintained or lost weight during pregnancy had lower healthcare costs and healthier infant outcomes. The study compared 82 obese mothers with 85 healthy-weight mothers, finding that infants of obese mothers who lost weight were less likely to experience complications.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalClinical Obesity·DateOct 29, 2015

Who mothers mommy?

A study by Arizona State University researchers found that four factors - unconditional acceptance, feeling comforted when needed, authenticity in relationships, and friendship satisfaction - play a crucial role in keeping mothers happy, healthy, and able to give of themselves. The study, which surveyed over 2,000 well-educated, upper-...

SourceArizona State University·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateOct 29, 2015
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.

Monkey model discovery could spur CMV vaccine development

Researchers at Duke Medicine have discovered that rhesus monkeys can transmit the virus across the placenta to their unborn offspring, establishing a first primate model to study mother-to-fetus CMV infections. The discovery aims to spur development of potential vaccine approaches against congenital CMV infections.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2015

Mother's gestational diabetes diagnosis slows fetal brain response after meals

A recent study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that mothers with gestational diabetes have slower-firing brains in their unborn children. This may be due to the mother's metabolism influencing her child's development and increasing their risk of obesity and diabetes later in life.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateOct 14, 2015

Cultural blunders make people better thinkers

Research found that people who experience cultural disfluency, such as encountering wrong holiday plates or non-traditional wedding photos, perform better on cognitive reasoning tests and are less likely to engage in mindless consumption. This shift to systematic thinking reduces stress levels and increases brainpower.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalSocial Cognition·DateOct 13, 2015
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.

Perceptions of fetal size influence interventions in pregnancy, BU study finds

A study found that women who were told their babies might be large had higher odds of perinatal interventions, despite only a fraction actually having excessive birth weights. The association raises questions about how much information clinicians should communicate to women about fetal size.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalMaternal and Child Health Journal·DateOct 8, 2015

Women and men react differently to infidelity

A Norwegian study found that men are most jealous of sexual infidelity, while women are more jealous of emotional infidelity. This difference may be due to evolutionary psychology factors, such as paternity insecurity and the need for men to invest resources in their children.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateOct 8, 2015

Study shows how dominant parents affect kids' self-worth

A new study suggests that a parent's behavior plays a significant role in shaping their child's self-esteem. The research found that English children whose mothers displayed negative parenting traits reported lower self-esteem, while Indian children were more affected by their fathers' behavior.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalJournal of Cross-Cultural Psychology·DateOct 6, 2015
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.

Kids allowed to be kids make better parents

Research led by Michigan State University scholar Amy K. Nuttall found that mothers who took on too much caregiving role as children tend to be less sensitive to their own children's needs, understanding child development and parenting in a similar harmful manner.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Family Psychology·DateSep 29, 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

Cancer diagnosis while pregnant should not lead to treatment delay or end of pregnancy

A study of 129 children born after prenatal exposure to cancer treatment found normal mental and heart function, contradicting fears that chemotherapy would harm fetal development. However, premature birth was more frequent among these children than in the general population, suggesting avoiding prematurity is key.

SourceECCO-the European CanCer Organisation·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 28, 2015
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.

Maternal protein deficiency during pregnancy 'memorized' by fetal muscle cells

A study found that inadequate protein intake during pregnancy activates a genetic pathway leading to muscle atrophy and autophagy in the fetus. This can result in low birth weight and stunted growth in male offspring, increasing the risk of chronic health problems such as cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalBritish Journal Of Nutrition·DateSep 18, 2015

Maternal chronic stress linked to more dental cavities in children

A study by King's College London and University of Washington found that maternal chronic stress is associated with a higher prevalence of dental cavities among children. The study also found that mothers who did not breastfeed their children were more likely to have them develop cavities.

SourceKing's College London·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateSep 17, 2015

When it comes to touch, to give is to receive

A study found that participants consistently rated the skin of another person as being softer than their own, even if it wasn't. This phenomenon, known as the social softness illusion, may exist to ensure humans build social bonds through touch.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 10, 2015

Stress main cause of smoking after childbirth

A new report from the University of East Anglia found that mothers who quit smoking in pregnancy are more likely to light up again if they feel stressed and lack support. The study highlights the importance of partner support, social influences, and women's beliefs about smoking in preventing postpartum relapse.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalAddiction·DateSep 9, 2015
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.

Mothers use variety of strategies to mitigate risks to daughters' body image -- Ben-Gurion University

Research by Ben-Gurion University shows that Jewish mothers employ various protective strategies to mitigate the risk of eating disorders in their daughters, including filtering, positive reinforcement, and discussion. These methods help build resilience and promote a positive body image.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalFeminism & Psychology·DateSep 9, 2015

Babies benefit from parenting classes even before birth

A series of parenting classes, Family Foundations, has been shown to reduce parental stress, depression, and anxiety, while improving parenting quality and long-term child outcomes. Participation in the program was linked to more optimal birth weight and shorter hospital stays for mothers at risk.

SourcePenn State·JournalMaternal and Child Health Journal·DateSep 3, 2015

Seal pups listen for long distance calls to locate their mothers

Antarctic fur seal pups identify their mothers by detecting the mother's vocal pitch at longer distances and using other components of the vocal signature at closer range. The study found that frequency modulations propagate reliably up to 64 meters, while amplitude modulations are degraded for distances over 8 meters.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 2, 2015
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.