Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.

  • In vitro maturation

    An assisted reproduction technique in which an immature oocyte is nurtured in the laboratory until fertilized.  

  • Enamel maturation

    The process of changing from about 30% inorganic mineral in enamel matrix of the teeth to the 96% inorganic content in mature enamel. The maturation is accomplished by the ameloblast cells over a long period, with a decrease in water and organic content, and an increase in mineral content and size or density of hydroxyapatite…

  • Affinity maturation

    The mechanism during an immune response that produces antibodies with a strong ability to bind to a foreign antigen over time. Affinity maturation is produced by changes in the genes that encode immunoglobulin G (IgG) and by increased survival of those B lymphocytes that produce antibodies with the greatest ability to destroy a particular antigen.…

  • Matrix stem cells

    Stem cells derived from the matrix (“Wharton’s jelly”) of the umbilical cord.  

  • Territorial matrix

    That component of cartilage immediately surrounding clusters of chondrocytes. It has a rich concentration of glycosaminoglycans, and stains darkly (it is basophilic).  

  • Matrilysin

    A member of the matrix metalloproteinase enzyme family that is expressed by many tumor cells and plays a part in tissue invasion and metastasis.  

  • Random mating

    Pairing of male to female when each individual has the same chance of mating with those of other genetic makeup.  

  • Assortative mating

    Pairing of male and female that is controlled in some manner.  

  • Mating

    Pairing of male and female that occurs by chance, that is, with no external influence or control.  

  • Maternal serum screen

    A blood test taken from a pregnant woman to see if she has circulating proteins that may indicate the presence of congenital disease in her developing fetus.  

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