Agriculture and food terminology · MLC-0114

Agriculture and food terms: M (414)

• MacroalgaeAlgae that are easily seen by the naked eye, are multicellular and appear in a variety of colors (red, green...
• MacroautophagyThe segregation of large parts of the cytoplasm, including organelles and protein aggregates, into...
• Macrocyclic compoundsCyclic compounds with a ring size of approximately 1-4 dozen atoms.
• MacrodispersionA dispersion system in which the dispersed particles are relatively large in size.
• MacroeconomicsEconomic studies or statistics that consider aggregates of individuals or groups of commodities; for example...
• Macrophage activationThe process of altering the morphology and functional activity of macrophages so that they become avidly...
• Macrophage colony-stimulating factorA mononuclear phagocyte colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) synthesized by mesenchymal cells. The compound...
• Macrophage migration inhibitory factorsProteins released by sensitized lymphocytes and possibly other cells that inhibit the migration of...
• macrophage-1 antigenAn adhesion-promoting leukocyte surface membrane heterodimer. The alpha subunit consists of the CD11b antigen...
• MacrophytesAquatic plants that are macroscopic (easily seen by the naked eye) and can be emergent, floating or submerged.
• Macular degenerationDegenerative changes in the retina usually of older adults which results in a loss of vision in the center of...
• Madden-Julian OscillationThe most dominant and coherent component of the intraseasonal variability in the tropical atmosphere...
• Maedi-visna diseaseDemyelinating leukoencephalomyelitis of sheep and goats caused by the Visna-maedi virus. It is similiar to...
• MaghrebRegion of Northwestern Africa including Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia and sometimes Libya.
• Magnesium compoundsInorganic compounds that contain magnesium as an integral part of the molecule.
• Magnesium silicatesA generic term for a variety of compounds that contain silicon, oxygen, and magnesium, and may contain...
• Magnetic fieldsRegions of space wherein magnetic dipoles would experience a magnetic force or torque; often represented as...
• Magnetic materialsMaterials producing magnetic fields around themselves.
• Magnetic susceptibilityA measure of the extent to which a substance may be magnetized; it represents the ratio of magnetization to...
• MagnetoencephalographyThe measurement of magnetic fields over the head generated by electric currents in the brain. As in any...
• Magnolia soulangeanaInterspecific hybrid between Magnolia heptapeta x Magnolia quinquepeta.
• Maillard reactionOne of a group of non-enzymatic reactions in which aldehydes, ketones, or reducing sugars react with amino...
• Major genesGenes that cause large trait differences between organisms that inherit different alleles.
• Major histocompatibility complexThe genetic region which contains the loci of genes which determine the structure of the serologically...
• Malaria vaccinesVaccines made from antigens arising from any of the four strains of Plasmodium which cause malaria in humans...
• MalasseziaGenus of fungi which causes skin disease.
• Maleic anhydridesUsed in copolymerization reactions, in the Diels-Alder(diene)synthesis, in the preparation of resins...
• Malignant catarrhal feverA herpesvirus infection of cattle characterized by catarrhal inflammation of the upper respiratory and...
• MalnutritionA condition caused by inadequate intake or inadequate digestion of nutrients. It may result from eating an...
• MalocclusionSuch malposition and contact of the maxillary and mandibular teeth as to interfere with the highest...
• MaltProduct made by wetting grain (commonly barley) and allowing it to germinate long enough to produce adequate...
• Mammalian embryoThe entity of a developing mammal (mammals), generally from the cleavage of a zygote to the end of embryonic...
• Mammary neoplasms (animal)Tumors or cancer of the mammary gland in animals.
• Mandible (bone)The largest and strongest bone of the face constituting the lower jaw. It supports the lower teeth.
• ManeuverabilityThe speed at which a vehicle or wheeled equipment can change direction without the loss of control.
• Mango butterA natural fat extracted from kernels of the mango.
• Mangroves (trees)Tropical trees, or deciduous conifers, or shrubs which produce many prop roots and grow in swamps, coastal...
• ManikinsInanimate physical models which bear likeness to human beings (or animals) and are used for various purposes...
• ManipulandaAn object that can be moved, used or altered by an animal to increase engagement in fine motor skills similar...
• ManubriumThe upper or most anterior segment of the sternum which articulates with the clavicle and first two pairs of...
• Map overlayA transparent sheet accompanying a map, on which information, coloring, or symbols are entered so that when...
• Map projectionsThe method of representing the three-dimensional shape of the Earth on a two-dimensional surface, such as the...
• Maple syrup urine diseaseAn autosomal recessive inherited disorder with multiple forms of phenotypic expression, caused by a defect in...
• MarblingThe presence of thin strips or flecks of fat within a meat cut. More marbling is usually associated with...
• Mare reproductive loss syndromeA reproductive disorder of horses characterized by epidemics of abortion and fetal death, and associated with...
• Marek diseaseA transmissible viral disease of birds caused by avian herpesvirus 2 (Herpesvirus 2, Gallid) and other...
• Marginal abatement costThe cost of abating an incremental unit of, for instance, a pollutant.
• Marginal technologyA technology or technology mix which is put in or out of operation due to changes in demand.
• Marine debrisMarine debris is defined as any persistent solid material that is manufactured or processed and directly or...
• Marine ecosystemsInteraction of living organisms with the physical or chemical environment in a body of saltwater.
• Marine scienceThe study of saltwater bodies of water, including the oceans and seas, their chemical and physical properties...
• Marine toxinsToxic or poisonous substances elaborated by marine flora or fauna. They include also specific, characterized...
• Maritime climateA fairly humid climate with small and mild annual temperature range that typically occurs in a region...
• Market accessThe extent to which a good or a service can compete with locally-made products in another market.
• Market economyAn economic system in which goods and services are exchanged in a market free from government regulation or...
• Market microstructureThe branch of economics that studies the pricing and trading mechanisms of assets in a market.
• Market structureCharacteristics of an industry that relate to its economic performance, such as the number of buyers and...
• Market valueHighest estimated price for an item to be sold in an open, competitive market that a buyer would pay and a...
• Marketing cooperativesA type of cooperative which assemble and market commodities produced mostly by their members.
• Marketing orders and agreementsOrders and agreements allow producers to promote orderly marketing through collectively influencing the...
• Marketing yearThe 12-month period beginning just after harvest during which a crop may be sold domestically, exported, or...
• MarketsA hypothetical construct of economic theory representing the place all potential buyers and sellers of all...
• Markov chainA stochastic process such that the conditional probability distribution for a state at any future instant...
• MaropitantFDA-approved veterinary antiemetic used for treatment and prevention of emesis. It is a neurokinin-1 receptor...
• MarshesWetlands that do not accumulate appreciable peat deposits and are dominated by herbaceous vegetation.
• MasaA corn dough made by boiling corn in powdered lime, washing it, letting it dry, and then grinding the...
• MashA crushed fermentable mixture, typically malt, grain meal or fruit, used to produce alcoholic beverages such...
• Mash feedA ground feed of cereals, cereal products, and sometimes supplements which may be fed in a wet or dry form to...
• Mass densityMass per unit volume.
• Mass mediaInstruments or technological means of communication that reach large numbers of people with a common message...
• Mass movementDownslope, unit movement of a portion of the land's surface-i.e., a single landslide or the gradual...
• MastingMasting is the intermittent synchronous production of large amount of seed (or flowers, fruits, seed crops)...
• Material flow analysisA systematic evaluation of how materials and energy flow through a defined system.
• Material identificationThe designation of the components of a product in words, symbols or numbers.
• Materials handlingThe treatment of materials during manufacture, processing, movement, storage, use, reuse, and/or disposal.
• Materials life cycleAll the stages involved in management of materials, including manufacture, processing, distribution, use...
• Maternal effectThe influence of the mother's phenotype or genotype on the phenotype of its offspring.
• Maternal exposureExposure of the female parent, human or animal, to potentially harmful chemical, physical, or biological...
• Maternal immunityResistance to a disease-causing agent induced by the introduction of maternal immunity into the fetus by...
• Maternal lineageThe kinship relation between an offspring and its female parent.
• Mating systemsModes of gene transmission from one generation to the next by sexual reproduction.
• Matrix metalloproteinase 13A secreted matrix metalloproteinase that plays a physiological role in the degradation of extracellular...
• Matrix-assisted laser desorption-ionization mass spectrometryA mass spectrometric technique that is used for the analysis of large biomolecules. Analyte molecules are...
• Maturity groupsA classification of some crop varieties, especially soybeans, based on their growth and development. For...
• MavacoxibMavacoxib is a member of the class of pyrazoles that is 1H-pyrazole which is substituted at positions 1, 3...
• Maximum contaminant levelThe maximum level of certain contaminants permitted in drinking water supplied by a public water system as...
• Maximum tolerated doseThe maximum dose that an animal species can tolerate for a major portion of its lifetime without significant...
• MeadA fermented beverage made of honey, water and yeast.
• MeadowsNatural or artificial grasslands primarily grown for making hay rather than for grazing livestock.
• Mean annual incrementThe total increment of trees in a stand up to a given age, divided by that age, usually expressed in annual...
• MeaslesA highly contagious infectious disease caused by Morbillivirus, common among children but also seen in the...
• Meat and bone mealThe protein residue left after the moisture and fat have been extracted in the normal rendering process. It...
• Meat jerkyThin pieces of cooked and dried meat. Jerky is traditionally dried in the sun and may be smoked and/or...
• Mechanical pulpPulp that has not been cooked or chemically treated.
• MechanicsA branch of physics that focuses on motion and on the reaction of physical systems to internal and external...
• MechanotransductionThe mechanism by which cells convert mechanical forces or signals into biochemical responses.
• Meclofenamic acidA non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent with antipyretic and antigranulation activities. It also inhibits...
• Median effective concentrationThe concentration of a chemical or drug that results in 50% of its maximal effect.
• MediastinoscopyEndoscopic examination, therapy or surgery of the anterior superior mediastinum of the thorax.
• Medical and veterinary educationSpecialized training that prepares individuals to practice human and animal medicine.
• Medical botanyThe study and use of plants or plant-derived chemicals in treating or preventing diseases.
• Medical foodsA food which is formulated to be consumed or administered enterally under the supervision of a physician and...
• Medication adherenceVoluntary cooperation of the patient in taking drugs or medicine as prescribed. This includes timing, dosage...
• Mediterranean climateClimate typical of, but not exclusive to, the Mediterranean region with cool, moist winters and warm, dry...
• Mediterranean dietA diet typical of the Mediterranean region characterized by a pattern high in fruits and vegetables, cereals...
• Medium density fiberboardsAn engineered wood product formed by breaking down softwood into wood fibres, compressing it with a binding...
• MedroxyprogesteroneA synthetic progestational hormone used in veterinary practice as an estrus regulator.
• MegacolonPathological enlargement of the colon.
• MegadoseAn exceptionally large dose.
• MegaesophagusA motility disorder of the esophagus in which the lower esophageal sphincter (near the cardia) fails to relax...
• MegasporesThe larger of the two types of spores, produced in heterosporous plants, that develops into a female...
• MegasporocytesA cell that undergoes meiosis to produce four megaspores.
• MeiosisA type of cell nucleus division, occurring during maturation of the germ cells. Two successive cell nucleus...
• MelanesiaOne of the three main divisions of Pacific Ocean Islands, in the southwest Pacific Ocean, northeast of...
• MelaninInsoluble polymers of tyrosine derivatives found in and causing darkness in skin (skin pigmentation), hair...
• MelanocytesMammalian pigment cells that produce melanins, pigments found mainly in the epidermis, but also in the eyes...
• MelanogenesisThe production of melanin by living cells.
• MelanoidinsDark-colored polymers formed through the Maillard reaction by the combination of reducing sugars and amino...
• Melanoma-specific antigensCellular antigens that are specific for melanoma cells.
• MelanosisDisorders of increased melanin pigmentation that develop without preceding inflammatory disease.
• MelezitoseA sugar that is obtained from the exudate of some trees (e.g. larch and Douglas fir). This sugar is less...
• MelibioseA disaccharide consisting of one galactose and one glucose moiety in an alpha (1-6) glycosidic linkage.
• MelioidosisA disease of humans and animals that resembles glanders. It is caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei and may...
• MeliponicultureThe cultivation of stingless bees on a commercial scale for honey production or pollination.
• MelissopalynologyAnalysis of pollen grains present in honey.
• MeltingThe process of going from a solid to a liquid state.
• Membrane fluidityThe motion of phospholipid molecules within the lipid bilayer, dependent on the classes of phospholipids...
• Membrane fusionThe adherence and merging of cell membranes, intracellular membranes, or artificial membranes to each other...
• Membrane permeabilityA quality of cell membranes which permits the passage of solvents and solutes into and out of cells.
• Membrane potentialThe voltage differences across a membrane. For cellular membranes they are computed by subtracting the...
• Membrane proteinsProteins which are found in membranes including cellular and intracellular membranes.
• Memory disordersDisturbances in registering an impression, in the retention of an acquired impression, or in the recall of an...
• MeningitisInflammation of the coverings of the brain and/or spinal cord. Infections (viral, bacterial, and fungal) are...
• MeningoencephalitisAn inflammatory process involving the brain (encephalitis) and meninges (meningitis), most often produced by...
• MenopauseThe last menstrual period. Permanent cessation of menses (menstruation) is usually defined after 6 to 12...
• MenstruationThe periodic shedding of the endometrium and associated menstrual bleeding in the menstrual cycle of humans...
• MeristemsA group of plant cells that are capable of dividing infinitely and whose main function is the production of...
• MesencephalonThe middle of the three primitive cerebral vesicles of the embryonic brain. without further subdivision...
• Mesenchymal stromal cellsBone-marrow-derived, non-hematopoietic cells that support hematopoetic stem cells. They have also been...
• Mesic conditionsHabitats or sites characterized by moderate environmental conditions, neither decidedly wet (hydric...
• MesocarpA portion of plant tissue that is the middle layer of a pericarp.
• MesodermThe middle layer of an embryonic germ layer.
• MesopauseThe base of the inversion at the top of the mesosphere, usually found at 80 to 85 kilometers.
• Mesophilic microorganismsMesophiles are microorganisms growing at moderate temperatures.
• MesopredatorsA mesopredator is a middle trophic level predator in the food web which is both predator and prey.
• MesosphereThe atmospheric shell, in which temperature generally decreases with heights, extending from the stratopause...
• MesotheliomaA tumor derived from mesothelial tissue (peritoneum, pleura, pericardium). It appears as broad sheets of...
• Message assessmentAn evaluation of how effectively a message is communicated and received.
• Message mappingA model that hierarchically organizes an organization's messages regarding controversial issues.
• Meta-analysisWorks consisting of studies using a quantitative method of combining the results of independent studies...
• Metabolic cagesA temporary, or semi-permanent enclosure designed to continuously free-catch urine and fecal samples from an...
• Metabolic diseasesGeneric term for diseases caused by an abnormal metabolic process. It can be congenital due to inherited...
• Metabolic engineeringMethods and techniques used to genetically modify cells' biosynthetic product output and develop conditions...
• Metabolic flux analysisMeasurement of cells' substrate utilization and biosynthetic output for modeling of metabolic networks.
• Metabolic studiesA research method in which the biochemical pathways of metabolism are investigated, including uptake...
• Metabolic syndromeA combination of health conditions including diabetes, hyperlipidemia and obesity, that place a person at...
• Metabolizable energyThe net energy in food or feed that is available to humans or animals by digestion and absorption, and...
• MetabolomeThe complete set of metabolites and endogenous small molecules involved in metabolism of whole cells...
• MetabolomicsThe branch of genetics that studies organisms in terms of their metabolomes, that is, the complete set of...
• MetadataMetadata is data about data. In a database, metadata is the information, such as author, title, and journal...
• MetagenomicsAnalysis of the genetic material in a collection of organisms, usually applied to uncultured, mixed-species...
• MetallochaperonesA family of soluble metal binding proteins that are involved in the intracellular transport of specific metal...
• MetalloidsA class of nonmetals such as arsenic that have some of the chemical properties of a metal.
• MetallomeThe entirety of metal and metalloid species within a cell or a biological system.
• MetallomicsThe study of interactions, transformations, molecular mechanisms or functions of all species of metals and...
• MetalloporphyrinsPorphyrins which are combined with a metal ion. The metal is bound equally to all four nitrogen atoms of the...
• MetalloproteinsProteins that have one or more tightly bound metal ions forming part of their structure.
• Metamorphic rocksA metamorphic crystalline rock having a closely foliated structure divisible along approximately parallel...
• MetaphysicsThe branch of philosophy that treats of first principles, including ontology (the nature of existence or...
• MetastasisTransfer of a neoplasm from one organ or part of the body to another remote from the primary site.
• MeteorologyThe study dealing with the phenomena of the atmosphere especially as they relate to weather and climate. Used...
• MetestrusThe period following estrus during which the phenomena of estrus subside in those animals in which pregnancy...
• MethacyclineA broad-spectrum semisynthetic antibiotic related to tetracycline but excreted more slowly and maintaining...
• MethanogensMicroorganisms, especially of the group Archaea, that can grow in and produce methane under anaerobic...
• MethanotrophsMicroorganisms that metabolize methane as their only source of carbon and energy under aerobic or anaerobic...
• MethicillinOne of the penicillins which is resistant to penicillinase but susceptible to a penicillin-binding protein...
• Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureusA strain of Staphylococcus aureus that is non-susceptible to the action of methicillin. The mechanism of...
• MethimazoleA thioureylene antithyroid agent that inhibits the formation of thyroid hormones by interfering with the...
• MethodologyThe way in which information is found or something is done. The methodology includes the methods, procedures...
• Methylene blueA compound consisting of dark green crystals or crystalline powder, having a bronze-like luster. Solutions in...
• MethylmethacrylateThe methyl ester of methacrylic acid. It polymerizes easily to form polymethyl methacrylate. It is used as a...
• Methylmethacrylates, see Methylmethacrylate
• Micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatographyA hybrid separation technique combining both chromatographic and electrophoretic separation principles. While...
• MicellesParticles consisting of aggregates of molecules held loosely together by secondary bonds. The surface of...
• Microarray technologyThe simultaneous analysis, on a microchip, of multiple samples or targets arranged in an array format.
• Microbial adhesionAdherence of microbes to other microbes, cells, biological and non-biological substances. It is important in...
• Microbial biomassThe total amount of organic matter present in microorganisms typically in a particular environment.
• Microbial bioremediationUse of (microbes) to clean up oil spills or remove other pollutants from soil, water, or wastewater.
• Microbial fuel cellsDevice in which chemical energy is converted into electricity by microorganisms.
• Microbial geneticsA branch of genetics which deals with the genetic mechanisms and processes of microorganisms.
• Microbial loadThe number and type of microorganisms contaminating an object or organism.
• Microbial pesticidesMicrobial pesticides consist of a microorganism (e.g., a bacterium, fungus, virus or protozoan) as the active...
• Microbial toxinsToxins or poisonous substances produced by fungi, bacteria or other microorganisms.
• Microbiological risk assessmentThe qualitative or quantitative evaluation of the likelihood of adverse effects from pathogenic...
• MicrobiomeThe full collection of microbes (bacteria, fungi, virus, etc.) that naturally exist within a particular...
• MicrobodiesElectron-dense cytoplasmic particles bounded by a single membrane, such as peroxisomes; glyoxysomes; and...
• Microchip technologyThe preparation and analysis of samples on miniaturized devices.
• MicroclimateThe local climate of a given site or habitat varying in size from a tiny crevice to a large land area, but...
• MicrocystinsCyclic heptapeptides found in Microcystis and other Cyanobacteria. Hepatotoxic and carcinogenic effects have...
• MicrodialysisA technique for measuring extracellular concentrations of substances in tissues, usually in vivo, by means of...
• MicrodissectionThe performance of dissections with the aid of a microscope.
• MicroelectrodesElectrodes with an extremely small tip, used in a voltage clamp or other apparatus to stimulate or record...
• MicroextractionExtraction of analytes in microliter or smaller quantities.
• Microfilament proteinsMonomeric subunits of primarily globular actin and found in the cytoplasmic matrix of almost all cells. They...
• MicrofilamentsFibers composed of microfilament proteins, which are predominately actin. They are the smallest of the...
• Microfluidic technologyTechnology of developing devices and methods that can precisely and effectively control and manipulate fluids...
• MicrofossilsVery small fossils which are identified and studied using microscopy, such as preserved microorganisms...
• MicrogreensSeedlings of vegetables or herbs harvested before true leaves appear. Microgreens have superior flavor and...
• MicronaireA combined measure of cotton fiber fineness and maturity based upon fiber perimeter and fiber wall thickness.
• MicronektonMicronekton are relatively small but actively swimming organisms ranging in size between plankton (< 2 cm)...
• MicronesiaOne of the three main divisions of Pacific Ocean Islands, in the west Pacific Ocean, north of the equator...
• Micronucleus testsInduction and quantitative measurement of chromosomal damage leading to the formation of micronuclei...
• MicroorganismsAny organism such as bacteria, fungus, microalgae, virus, etc. that can be seen only with a microscope.
• MicroplasticsPlastic particles, less than 5 millimeters in diameter, that are generated from the degradation of larger...
• MicroreliefGround surface irregularities which when compared from a fixed point of elevation between them display...
• microRNASmall double-stranded, non-protein coding RNAs, 21-25 nucleotides in length generated from single-stranded...
• Microsatellite repeatsA variety of simple repeat sequences that are distributed throughout the genome. They are characterized by a...
• MicrosomesArtifactual vesicles formed from the endoplasmic reticulum when cells are disrupted. They are isolated by...
• MicrosporesThe smaller of the two types of spores, produced in heterosporous plants, that develops into a male...
• MicrosporocytesA cell that undergoes meiosis to produce four microspores.
• MicrosporumGenus of fungi which causes mycoses in humans and animals.
• MicrostructureThe microscopic fine structure of an organism, material or object.
• MicrotubulesSlender, cylindrical filaments found in the cytoskeleton of plant and animal cells. They are composed of the...
• MicrovesselsThe finer blood vessels of the vasculature that are generally less than 100 microns in internal diameter.
• MicrovilliMinute projections of cell membranes which greatly increase the surface area of the cell.
• Mid-Atlantic regionRegion on the East Coast of the United States, including Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, New...
• MidazolamA short-acting hypnotic-sedative drug with anxiolytic and amnestic properties. It is used in dentistry...
• Middle earThe space and structures directly internal to the tympanic membrane and external to the inner ear...
• Middle EastAn extensive region comprising the countries of southwest Asia and northeast Africa
• MiddlingsThe coarse particles containing the wheat germ and the fine particles of wheat bran separated during milling...
• Midpoint indicatorA point in the cause-effect chain (environmental mechanism) of a particular impact category, prior to the...
• Migrant workersPeople who migrate from one section to another section of the same country or migrate to another country in...
• Migratory behaviorThe periodic and cyclic movement of organisms from one place to another, usually driven by the availability...
• Migratory speciesA species that moves from one habitat or region to another on a regular or seasonal basis.
• MikamycinAn antibiotic complex originally isolated from Streptomyces mitakaenis. It contains two principle...
• MilbemycinsFamily of macrolide antibiotics with insecticidal & acaricidal activity. milbemectin is a mixture of...
• MildewsA common name for a fungus that leaves a thin white coating on the surface of plants and other materials...
• Milk banksCenters for collecting, screening, storing, and distributing human milk donated by nursing mothers.
• Milk chocolateA chocolate mixture usually including cocoa butter, cocoa liquor, a sweetener and milk or milk powder, most...
• Milk ejectionExpulsion of milk from the mammary alveolar lumen, which is surrounded by a layer of milk-secreting...
• Milk equivalentThe quantity of fluid milk used in a processed dairy product, usually expressed on a milk fat basis, e.g. one...
• Milk fatLipid component of animal milks.
• Milk feverA disease of pregnant and lactating cows and ewes leading to generalized paresis and death. The disease...
• Milk sicknessAn acute, often fatal disease caused by the ingestion of milk, milk products, or the flesh of cattle or sheep...
• Milk substitutesFoods that are used to replace cow's milk in the human diet, made with nondairy ingredients.
• MilkshakesA cold beverage made of milk and flavorings.
• Mimicry (behavior)Unconscious or direct imitation of someone's posture, speech, behavior, movement and facial expression in...
• Mine spoilEarth and rock excavated from a mine.
• Mine tailingsMaterial separated as refuse or separately treated as inferior in quality or value. The sand, gravel and...
• Mineral oilAn oil derived from a mineral source (petroleum) as contrasted to oils derived from plants or animals.
• Mineral soilsA soil consisting predominantly of, and having its properties determined predominantly by inorganic matter...
• MineralizationThe breakdown of organic compounds to their inorganic (i.e., mineral) forms-e.g., proteins to nitrates...
• Minimally-invasive methodsProcedures that avoid use of open, invasive surgery in favor of closed or local surgery. These generally...
• Minimum inhibitory concentrationA microbial sensitivity test which measures the lowest concentration of an antimicrobial agent that inhibits...
• Minisatellite repeatsTandem arrays of moderately repetitive, short (10-60 bases) DNA sequences found dispersed throughout the...
• MinocyclineA tetracycline analog, having a 7-dimethylamino and lacking the 5 methyl and hydroxyl groups, which is...
• Minority studentsStudents who are members of minority groups.
• MirrorsFlat, reflective surfaces made of glass or plastic in which captive animals in zoos and laboratory facilities...
• Miscible displacementThe mixing and movement of two or more completely soluble fluids in a porous medium.
• MisoA fermented soybean paste that may also contain rice, barley or wheat.
• Missense mutationA mutation in which a codon is mutated to one directing the incorporation of a different amino acid. This...
• Mississippi Delta regionRegion in the Southeastern United States surrounding the lower Mississippi River, including areas of...
• Mite infestationsInfestations with arthropods of the subclass acari, superorder Acariformes.
• MitesTiny eight-legged animals that live off plants, animals or stored food.
• Mitochondrial genomeThe genetic complement of mitochondria as represented in their DNA.
• Mitochondrial membraneThe two lipoprotein layers in the mitochondrion. The outer membrane encloses the entire mitochondrion and...
• Mitochondrial proteinsProteins encoded by the mitochondrial genome or proteins encoded by the nuclear genome that are imported to...
• Mitochondrial turnoverThe cellular processes involved in adjustments to the mitochondrial volume, content, and activity, that...
• MitogenesisInduction of mitosis in a cell, mostly via a mitogen.
• MitophagySelective degradation of damaged or unwanted mitochondria by autophagy.
• MitosisA type of cell nucleus division by means of which the two daughter nuclei normally receive identical...
• Mixed croppingThe growing of several crops simultaneously in the same field but not in rows.
• Mixed economyAn economic system in which some goods and services are directed and administered by the government and some...
• Mixed infectionInfection with more than one pathogen or parasite at the same time.
• Model food systemsSimple food or nonfood items used as tools to study food properties or interactions. For example, heated...
• Model uncertaintyUncertainty due to necessary simplification of real-world processes, misspecification of the model structure...
• Model validationThe process by which the model is evaluated by comparing a model prediction with empirical data.
• ModelsA representation of the relationships that define a situation under study. A model may be a set of...
• Moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometerA high resolution spectroradiometer aboard the Terra and Aqua spacecraft designed to gather spectral data in...
• Modified atmosphere packagingA packaging technique where the gas composition surrounding the product is changed in order to prolong shelf...
• Modifiers (genes)Genes that control or change the phenotypic expressions of other genes by interfering with transcription.
• Moldings (decorative trim)Patterned and shaped pieces of wood, plastic or other material that are used as a decorative trim.
• Molds (fungi)A fungus with visible downy mycelium upon which powdery conidia can be seen.
• Mole fractionAn expression of the number of moles of a compound divided by the total number of moles of all compounds...
• Molecular biologyThe study of the structure and function of proteins and nucleic acids in biological systems.
• Molecular chaperonesA family of cellular proteins that mediate the correct assembly or disassembly of polypeptides, and their...
• Molecular cloningThe insertion of recombinant DNA molecules from prokaryotic and/or eukaryotic sources into a replicating...
• Molecular dynamicsThe study of molecular conformations and molecular motions, using computer simulation techniques.
• Molecular epidemiologyThe application of molecular biology to the answering of epidemiological questions, including the role of...
• Molecular farmingTransgenic plants or transgenic animals that are grown to produce proteins and other industrial compounds for...
• Molecular imprintingA methodology for chemically synthesizing polymer molds of specific molecules or recognition sites of...
• Molecular mimicryThe structure or sequence of a molecule (an antigen, nucleic-acid, protein, etc.) that imitates or simulates...
• Molecular modelsModels used experimentally or theoretically to study molecular shape, electronic properties, or interactions...
• Molecular motor proteinsProteins that are involved in or cause cell movement such as the rotary structures (flagellar motor) or the...
• Molecular rotorsA group of fluorescent molecules that can undergo an intramolecular twisting motion upon photoexcitation.
• Molecular weightThe sum of the atomic weights of the atoms in a molecule.
• MolluscicidesPesticides that kill snails and slugs.
• MolluscsAquatic invertebrate organisms such as oysters and clams in the phylum Mollusca that typically have a body...
• MoltingPeriodic casting off feathers; hair; or cuticle. Molting is a process of sloughing or desquamation...
• Monocarboxylic acid transportersA family of proteins involved in the transport of monocarboxylic acids such as lactic acid and pyruvic acid...
• Monocarpic plantsMonocarpic plant flowers and produces seed only once in its lifetime.
• MonoecyHaving staminate and pistillate flowers in separate places on the same plant.
• Mononuclear leukocytesLeukocytes found in the systemic circulation having large, non-lobed nuclei and lacking coarse cytoplasmic...
• MonophylyThe phylogenetic relationship grouping organisms consisting of all descendants of a single common ancestor...
• MonoploidyAn organism with one basic chromosome set, derived from the truly diploid species.
• MonopolyThe only seller with control over market sales.
• MonopsonyThe only buyer with control over market purchases.
• Monosaccharide transport proteinsA large group of membrane transport proteins that shuttle monosaccharides across cell membranes.
• Monosomicshaving a diploid set of chromosomes where one homologous chromosome is missing, e.g. 2N-1.
• MonoterpenoidsTerpenoids having a C10 skeleton.
• Monounsaturated fatty acidsFatty acids which are unsaturated in only one position.
• Monoxenic cultureA culture containing one species growing in the presence of one other species.
• Montane forestsThe biogeographic zone made up of relatively moist cool upland slopes below timberline that is characterized...
• Monuron TCASalt of monuron and trichloroacetic acid.
• MorA layer of organic material made up of largely unrecognizable plant debris and their decomposition products...
• MoralityStandards of conduct that distinguish right from wrong.
• MorbidityState of being ill or diseased. Morbidity is the occurrence of a disease or condition that alters health and...
• MordantsA binding agent that forms coordination complexes with certain dyes or stains and helps in attaching these...
• MorphineThe principal alkaloid in opium and the prototype opiate analgesic and narcotic. Morphine has widespread...
• MorphogenesisThe development of anatomical structures to create the form of a single- or multi-cell organism...
• MorphometryThe measurement of the form or structures of organisms and their parts.
• MortadellaA large, seasoned, smoked Italian sausage made of ground pork, beef, and pork fat.
• MortalityAll deaths reported in a given population.
• Mosquito vectorsMosquitoes (members of the family Culicidae) that transmit pathogens or their intermediate forms from one...
• Mothers against decapentaplegic homolog proteinsA family of proteins that are involved in the translocation of signals from TGF-beta receptors; bone...
• MotilinA peptide of about 22-amino acids isolated from the duodenum. At low pH it inhibits gastric motor activity...
• Motor neuronsA neuron conducting impulses outwards from the brain or spinal cord.
• MotorcyclesTwo-wheeled, engine-driven vehicles.
• MoxalactamBroad- spectrum beta-lactam antibiotic similar in structure to the cephalosporins except for the substitution...
• MucinsHigh molecular weight mucoproteins that protect the surface of epithelial cells by providing a barrier to...
• Muck soilsEarth made from decaying plant materials.
• MucoproteinsConjugated proteins in which mucopolysaccharides are combined with proteins. The mucopolysaccharide moiety is...
• Mucosal immunityNonsusceptibility to the pathogenic effects of foreign microorganisms or antigenic substances as a result of...
• MulchesAny substance spread or allowed to remain on the soil surface to conserve soil moisture and shield soil...
• MulesThe hybrid offspring of a jackass and a mare.
• MulesingThe surgical removal or the physical destruction of skin near the tail and perineal area of sheep in order to...
• MullA soil whose upper mineral layer has become intimately mixed (mainly through the action of earthworms) with...
• Multibacillary leprosyA form of leprosy classified by the World Health Organization for the purpose of treatment, based on clinical...
• Multi-criteria decision makingA process whereby information from multiple conflicting alternatives is analyzed in order to make a better...
• Multienzyme complexesSystems of enzymes which function sequentially by catalyzing consecutive reactions linked by common metabolic...
• Multigene familyA set of genes descended by duplication and variation from some ancestral gene. Such genes may be clustered...
• Multilocus sequence typingDirect nucleotide sequencing of gene fragments from multiple housekeeping genes for the purpose of...
• MultiomicsAn approach to analyse biological samples or systems by utilizing or combining data sets of different omic...
• MultiparasitismParasitism of a single host by different species of parasites.
• Multiple fruit typeA fruit from many different flowers which develop closely together to form one fruit (pineapple, mulberry).
• Multiple use forestryany practice of forestry fulfilling two or more management objectives, such as production of timber and...
• Multiprotein complexesMacromolecular complexes formed from the association of defined protein subunits.
• Multistrata agroforestry systemsAn agroforestry system whose components (crops, trees, shrubs, livestock, wildlife, etc.) occupy distinct...
• Multivariate analysisA set of techniques used when variation in several variables has to be studied simultaneously. In statistics...
• Municipal solid wasteLocally collected garbage, includes residential, commercial, and institutional wastes.
• Murine typhusAn infectious disease clinically similar to epidemic louse-borne typhus, but caused by Rickettsia typhi...
• Musa paradisiacaInterspecific hybrid between Musa acuminata x Musa balbisiana.
• MuscalureA synthetic sex pheromone eliciting attraction of the female housefly, Musca domestica.
• MuscarineA toxic alkaloid found in Amanita muscaria (fly fungus) and other fungi of the Inocybe species. It is the...
• Muscarine receptorsCell surface proteins that bind acetylcholine with high affinity and trigger intracellular changes...
• Muscle strengthThe amount of force generated by muscle contraction. Muscle strength can be measured during isometric...
• Muscular atrophyDerangement in size and number of muscle fibers occurring with aging, reduction in blood supply, or following...
• Muscular dystrophyA general term for a group of inherited disorders which are characterized by progressive degeneration of...
• Mushroom bodiesPaired pedunculate masses in the protocerebrum, involved in visual integration and behavior.
• Mushroom compostA specially formulated and processed compost usually containing manure, straw and other waste materials which...
• Mushroom poisoningPoisoning from ingestion of mushrooms, primarily from, but not restricted to, toxic varieties.
• Mushroom toxinsToxins produced from mushrooms.
• Music enrichmentThe playing of recorded music or sounds for animals as an enrichment tool to reduce stress. For example...
• MuslimsPeople who practice the religion of Islam.
• Mustard (condiment)A flavoring that comes from the ground seeds of the mustard (Brassica) plant available as a powder or a paste.
• Mustard greensThe young, dark green leaves of mustard plants that are used as a cooked vegetable or as a salad green. The...
• MutagenesisProcess of generating genetic mutations. It may occur spontaneously or be induced by mutagens.
• MutagensChemical agents that increase the rate of genetic mutation by interfering with the function of nucleic acids...
• MutationAny detectable and heritable change in the genetic material that causes a change in the genotype and which is...
• Mutation accumulationConcept which describes the incremental effects of mutation in living organisms.
• Mutation rateThe number of mutations that occur in a specific sequence, gene, or genome over a specified period of time...
• MuttonMeat from sheep that are over one year old.
• MutualismA type of symbiotic relationship in which both species benefit.
• Myasthenia gravisA disorder of neuromuscular transmission characterized by weakness of cranial and skeletal muscles...
• MyceliumThe mass of threadlike filaments constituting the vegetative body of a fungus.
• MycobacillinA cyclic polypeptide antibiotic isolated from culture filtrates of Bacillus subtilis that acts as an...
• Mycobacterial diseasesInfections with bacteria of the genus Mycobacterium, including leprosy (M. leprae), paratuberculosis (M...
• MycobacteriophageViruses whose host are mycobacterial cells.
• Mycobacterium aviumA bacterium causing tuberculosis in domestic fowl and other birds. In pigs, it may cause localized and...
• MycobiotaThe total sum of all kinds of fungi present in a particular area at one time.
• MycogoneGenus of fungus that is pathogenic on cultivated mushroom.
• MycoherbicidesFormulations of plant pathogenic fungi which control the growth of or kill undesirable plants and weeds.
• MycoparasitesA fungus which is parasitic on another fungus.
• MycoplasmosisInfections with species of the genus Mycoplasma.
• MycorrhizaeSymbiotic combination (dual organism) of the mycelium of fungi with the roots of plants (plant roots). The...
• MycosesAny infection or disease caused by fungi or yeast in animals, including humans.
• MycotoxicosisPoisoning caused by the ingestion of mycotoxins (toxins of fungal origin).
• MycotoxinsToxic compounds produced by fungi.
• MycovirusesA virus that infects and replicates in cells of fungi.
• Myelin basic proteinAn abundant cytosolic protein that plays a critical role in the structure of multilamellar myelin. Myelin...
• Myelin sheathThe lipid-rich sheath surrounding axons in both the central and peripheral nervous systems. The myelin sheath...
• MyelographyX-ray visualization of the spinal cord following injection of contrast medium into the spinal arachnoid space.
• MyelomaA malignancy of mature plasma cells engaging in monoclonal immunoglobulin production. It is characterized by...
• MyiasisThe invasion of living tissues of man and other mammals by dipterous larvae.
• MyoblastsEmbryonic (precursor) cells of the myogenic lineage that develop from the mesoderm. They undergo...
• Myocardial diseasesAny disease of the myocardium or muscular layer of the heart wall. These diseases are diseases of tissue, as...
• Myocardial infarctionNecrosis of the myocardium caused by an obstruction of the blood supply to the heart (coronary circulation).
• Myocardial ischemiaA disorder of cardiac function caused by insufficient blood flow to the muscle tissue of the heart. The...
• Myocardial stunningProlonged dysfunction of the myocardium after a brief episode of severe ischemia, with gradual return of...
• MyocarditisInflammatory processes of the muscular walls of the heart (myocardium) which result in injury to the cardiac...
• MyocardiumThe muscle tissue of the heart. It is composed of striated, involuntary muscle cells connected to form the...
• MyocytesMature contractile cells, commonly known as myocytes, that form one of three kinds of muscle. The three types...
• MyofibrilsThe long cylindrical contractile organelles of striated muscle cells composed of actin filaments; myosin...
• Myogenic regulatory factorsA family of muscle-specific transcription factors which bind to DNA in control regions and thus regulate...
• MyogeninA myogenic regulatory factor that controls myogenesis. Myogenin is induced during differentiation of every...
• MyopiaA refractive error in which rays of light entering the EYE parallel to the optic axis are brought to a focus...
• MyosinA diverse superfamily of proteins that function as translocating proteins. They share the common...
• Myosin heavy chainsThe larger subunits of myosins. The heavy chains have a molecular weight of about 230 kD and each heavy chain...
• Myosin light chainsThe smaller subunits of myosins that bind near the head groups of myosin heavy chains. The myosin light...
• MyositisInflammation of skeletal muscle. Infectious, autoimmune, and paraneoplastic processes represent some of the...
• MyostatinA growth differentiation factor that is a potent inhibitor of skeletal muscle growth. It may play a role in...
• MyotoxicityDamage to the muscle or its function secondary to toxic substances such as drugs used in chemotherapy...
• MyotubesLarge, multinucleate single cells, either cylindrical or prismatic in shape, that form the basic unit of...
• MyrmecochorySeed or spore dispersal by ants. Ants use their appendages/elaiosomes to attach to the seeds.
• MyxobacteriaMyxobacteria are typically soil-living, mostly heterotrophic aerobic, Gram-negative rod shaped proteobacteria...

414 of 6,798 terms in Agriculture and food terminology (MLC-0114). Request the full dataset.