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Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Researchers discovered that male wasp spiders use a 'chastity belt' mechanism to block their female partner's sexual orifice during copulation, preventing offspring from other males. The detached genital tip plugs the orifice securely, impeding further copulation.
In promiscuous rodents, individual sperm work together in groups to increase competitiveness and successfully reach the female egg. This cooperation enables faster and stronger swimming, making them better competitors in fertilization races.
Researchers identified a male-specific gene, PlestMID, in an oogamous green algae species that evolved from its isogamous ancestor's dominant sex. This breakthrough provides insights into the evolution of male-female dichotomy and the origin of distinct sperm and egg cells.
Researchers explore using tardigrade-produced trehalose to preserve human eggs, offering a potential solution to successful embryo cryopreservation. The method has shown promising results in mouse eggs, and further research aims to apply it to human eggs and endangered species.
A recent study published in the Journal of Theoretical Biology reveals that the last male to mate with a female in polyandrous species has a higher chance of successful impregnation due to the presence of extra seminal fluid from previous partners.
Researchers identify 5,400 active genes in mouse eggs, including unique ones specific to egg cells, and find evidence of rapid change in critical mammalian genes. This study provides new information on the transition from unfertilized egg to fertilized embryo.
Researchers from Northwestern University have developed a three-dimensional culture system to preserve immature eggs for female fertility preservation. The technology, which mimics the ovary environment, has successfully led to the live birth of healthy mice from in vitro grown follicles.
A new egg freezing technique called Cryotop method has been developed, achieving a more than 90% survival rate for frozen-thawed eggs and a high pregnancy rate of nearly 42%. The process involves rapid freezing in a tiny amount of special vitrification solution, preventing ice crystals from forming damage to the egg. This technology op...
Researchers at Origen successfully culture primordial germ cells from chicken embryos, introducing genetic elements into the chicken genome. This breakthrough enables efficient and cost-effective production of human protein therapeutics in eggs, with potential applications for treating cancer and other diseases.
Researchers at UCSC discover that Hymenopteran insects create new centrosomes in unfertilized eggs using accessory nuclei. This process allows for the development of haploid males, which have half the number of chromosomes as females. The study sheds light on basic cell biology and the evolution of these social insects.
A team led by Dr Josephine Bowles and Professor Peter Koopman discovered that retinoic acid, a derivative of Vitamin A, triggers the beginning of meiosis in female embryos, resulting in egg production. In males, an enzyme suppresses meiosis until after birth, leading to sperm production.
A new computational model developed by Dr. Moshe Wald helps physicians plan the best approach for IVF/ICSI treatments for couples. The model considers various factors, including a woman's age, man's infertility issues, and sperm retrieval methods.
A study found that genistein, a major soy component, disrupts ovarian development in newborn female mice. High doses of genistein were associated with infertility and subfertility, while lower doses caused abnormal ovary function.
Researchers at Rutgers University have discovered two key fertility genes in the roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans, which are essential for successful fertilization. The study's findings have significant implications for understanding human infertility and may lead to new treatments.
The HIRA gene plays a crucial role in re-packaging sperm DNA after fertilization, enabling it to engage with maternal DNA and form a new life. A mutation in this gene can prevent zygote formation, highlighting the importance of genetic processes in reproduction.
A study found that nearly two-thirds of heavy smokers' sperm failed a test measuring fertilizing capacity, with those who smoked more cigarettes per day showing lower fertility rates. The research suggests that heavy smoking overloads the nicotine receptor in human sperm and testes, leading to a decline in fertilizing potential.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University discovered that germ cells use the JAK/STAT pathway to receive signals regarding sexual identity. This understanding could lead to new treatments for human infertility and cancer.
A new study suggests that stem cells in bone marrow and blood can regenerate egg cells in adult mice, potentially leading to new fertility treatments and alternatives to hormone replacement therapy. The findings also provide evidence for the existence of germ cell progenitors outside of the ovary.
Researchers have made history by cloning human embryos using matured lab-grown eggs and non-autologous nuclear transfer. Eighteen out of 25 in vitro matured oocytes survived the process, with 11 developing into pronuclei.
Scientists have successfully developed ovarian structures containing eggs from embryonic stem cells, a breakthrough that could provide new hope for infertile couples. The method uses growth factors derived from testicular cells to induce the development of female reproductive cells.
Researchers have successfully derived human embryonic stem cells that can develop into primordial germ cells, which eventually form eggs and sperm. This breakthrough may help solve infertility issues and study the effects of environmental chemicals on reproductive development. Further work is needed to translate this promise into reality.
Researchers have successfully developed human eggs from ovarian surface cells (OSE cells) in a laboratory setting. This breakthrough has potential applications in human reproduction, including increased chances of conception for women with reduced fertility and premature menopause.
Scientists discovered that mice lacking LPA receptors experience fertility problems, with embryos failing to implant in the womb. This finding may lead to new insights into female infertility and potential therapeutic interventions for human fertility issues.
In some species, egg orientation influences embryonic development, leading to differences in cell fate and patterning. This phenomenon highlights the importance of spatial cues during early developmental stages.
Researchers found that a novel form of restricted complement activation occurs on viable sperm upon exposure to follicular fluid, aiding in the fusion process between sperm and egg. This targeted activation may have implications for other cell-cell interactions.
A new study reveals that genetics, not environment, determines an ant's role in the colony. Harvester ants from southeastern Arizona and New Mexico show a surprising tendency to produce sterile workers when mating with males from different genetic lineages.
Dwarf mistletoe has an extreme water-pump seed ejection system that fires seeds up to 20 meters. This discovery could aid disease control by targeting the unique characteristics of dwarf mistletoe reproduction.
Researchers at Brown University have identified an enzyme called Udx1 that generates hydrogen peroxide to block sperm entry and protect the fragile embryo. The discovery sheds light on a century-old mystery of how eggs defend themselves against sperm, with potential implications for understanding fertilization and early development.
Sea urchin research sheds light on fertilization among mammals, revealing a key role for carbohydrate molecules in regulating reproduction. The discovery could lead to new approaches to contraception and a better understanding of human reproductive issues.
Researchers discovered that a cell death protein, IAP, plays a surprising role in restoring cellular movement in fruit fly ovaries. By studying engineered flies with dysfunctional Rac protein, they found that IAP can compensate for the lack of functional Rac, allowing cells to migrate properly and restore fertility.
Egg freezing may provide an alternative for infertile couples trapped by Italian law, allowing them to have children. Researchers hope that this technique can limit the consequences of the law on infertile couples.
Researchers have found that compounds in khat plant leaves, specifically cathinone and norephedrine, stimulate final stages of sperm maturation and prevent premature acrosome reactions. This study may lead to the development of over-the-counter fertility products.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic found that frozen sperm are just as effective as fresh sperm in in vitro fertilization. The cumulative live birth rate was higher for frozen sperm, with a success rate of 53.1 percent compared to 51.6 percent for fresh sperm.
Researchers have discovered that tissue cells in clusters of 4 and 8 can revert to a stem-cell state under specific conditions, working just as well as normal stem cells. This finding could provide a new approach for harnessing differentiated cells to enhance tissue repair, similar to animals that can regenerate lost parts.
Researchers found a high rate of follicle degeneration in mice without a corresponding reduction in healthy follicles, refuting the idea of a fixed egg supply. The study suggests that ovaries retain the ability to produce new oocytes and follicles, potentially leading to new approaches to combating infertility.
A study in Egypt found cultural differences between Shi'ite and Sunni Muslims on IVF, with strict rules on third-party donation. Middle Eastern societies prioritize biological children due to prohibition of adoption and gamete donation.
Temple researchers mapped out early embryo development and found that clones replicate the process entirely at this stage. However, cloned embryos bear characteristics of both an embryo and adult cell, leading to slow and incomplete development.
Researchers have identified a receptor on sea urchin eggs that regulates the species-specific adhesion of sperm, preventing cross-fertilization between different species. The discovery provides insights into the molecular mechanisms of gamete interactions and could shed light on how new species evolved.
Scientists at Emory University Health Sciences Center have identified a new sperm protein called SED1 that plays a critical role in the initial association between sperm and egg during fertilization. Mice without this protein had reduced fertility despite normal sperm characteristics, highlighting its importance in successful binding.
Researchers found that older men's sperm contain more disease-causing genetic mutations, which surprisingly increase the chances of fertilization. The mutations may confer a competitive advantage to the sperm, contributing to the increased incidence of rare genetic diseases in children born to older fathers.
Researchers have counted the number of proteins that help an egg cell divide, revealing a crucial difference in motor density between the two poles. This discovery has dramatic consequences for embryonic development and understanding cellular forces.
Scientists have observed a rare phenomenon in the insect world where a female Zeus bug allows a male to ride on her back, feeding on protein-rich wax produced by the female. This unusual behavior, known as 'female-led mating,' has sparked curiosity among researchers and provides new insights into the evolution of mating behaviors.
Researchers at U-M developed a new method for separating viable sperm using microfluidics, which increased motile sperm to 98% and improved sperm structure and form. The technique has the potential to benefit men with low sperm numbers and infertility problems.
A comprehensive international study of 541 ICSI and 440 IVF children found no significant differences in growth, medical illnesses, or cognitive development. However, a moderately higher rate of malformations was observed in the ICSI group, which may be due to selection bias.
A new air-drying technique allows stored sperm to be transported without special equipment, relieving laboratories of sperm care. This method also reduces the risk of HIV transmission and gives owners more control over disposal decisions.
IVF adoption is more accessible in Middle Eastern Muslim countries due to Islamic fatwa declarations. Shi'ite Muslims are permitted to use donor egg and sperm technologies, whereas Sunni Muslims are restricted, leading some men to reassess their marriages.
Researchers have found an optimum amount of fluid motion enhances fertilization significantly, applicable to various species including humans. They also discovered a molecule controlling sperm navigation and an inhibitor blocking its effects.
A study by US researchers found a significant association between high lead levels in seminal plasma and low fertilization rates. Lead was shown to interfere with sperm function, including binding to the egg and penetrating its coating. The findings suggest that lead may be a contributory factor of declining sperm counts.
Researchers at Weizmann Institute find that sperm are attracted to fertilization site by temperature difference. A temperature-driven mechanism, known as thermotaxis, guides the sperm through the fallopian tube and prepares them for penetration of the egg.
Researchers found that MSP binding to VAB-1 receptor triggers oocyte maturation in C. elegans, promoting successful fertilization. The study reveals an unexpected role for VAB-1 in reproduction.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have identified a sperm-sensing receptor in worm eggs, enabling egg maturation and ovulation. The discovery sheds light on reproductive problems in humans, including failed meiosis leading to chromosome instability.
In a new study, researchers describe a less invasive fertility procedure that uses intraperitoneal insemination to treat infertile women with no cervical blockages. The technique bypasses the cervix by injecting sperm directly into the pelvic cavity, avoiding the need for more complex treatments.
A Harvard Medical School study reveals that a specific ovary gene, Fmn2, plays a crucial role in ensuring proper chromosome distribution during egg cell division. The researchers found that mutations in this gene can lead to severe pregnancy complications, including recurrent miscarriages and birth defects.
Research by UC Berkeley scientists shows that atrazine can feminize male leopard frog tadpoles and turn them into female frogs at levels as low as 0.1 parts per billion, a 30 times lower threshold than the current allowable limit for drinking water. The herbicide has been linked to declining amphibian populations in the US and worldwide.
The study found that older men are more likely to have sperm with genetic mutations causing Apert syndrome, which increases the risk of having a child with the disease. The scientists suggest that the number of cell divisions in making sperm plays a role in this link.
Researchers found that environmental oestrogens, such as genistein and nonylphenol, stimulate sperm development and motility, while natural oestrogen has no effect on capacitated sperm. This suggests a different mechanism of action for environmental oestrogens, which could have negative effects over time.
Researchers used genetic tricks with fruit flies to identify the key signal allowing stationary cells in the ovary to travel. They found a protein called Unpaired that activates these cells, which may help clarify how human cancer cells invade distant tissues.
A new study from the Mayo Clinic has identified a crucial protein involved in male fertility, shedding light on a common cause of infertility. The research found that mice lacking this protein are infertile, highlighting the importance of Hrb protein in acrosome development.
Research suggests that the FVL mutation may have advantages for fetal implantation, resulting in higher success rates for fertility treatments. Women with the mutation experience improved receptivity to fertilized eggs, leading to increased pregnancy rates.
Research in mice reveals that TAFII105 is a cell-type specific component of the transcription machinery, controlling egg formation and potentially linked to female infertility. The study provides new avenues for understanding the complex transcriptional mechanisms underlying cell-specific gene expression.