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Article
| Open Access
Rhythmic actomyosin-driven contractions induced by sperm entry predict mammalian embryo viability
Cytoplasmic flows—the movement of cytoplasmic material—can be detected following the fertilization of an egg by a sperm in many species. In this study, rhythmic cytoplasmic flows are shown to be induced in mice by calcium-induced cytoskeleton contractions which could be used to predict the successful outcome of fertilization.
- Anna Ajduk
- , Tagbo Ilozue
- & Magdalena Zernicka-Goetz
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Monogamy and haplodiploidy act in synergy to promote the evolution of eusociality
Why some species have evolved to produce sterile individuals working for the benefit of others has yet to be fully explained. Now, a mathematical model of the dynamics of insect colony foundation, growth and death shows that monogamy and haplodiploidy facilitate the evolution of this societal structure.
- Lutz Fromhage
- & Hanna Kokko
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Experimental coevolution of male and female genital morphology
Studies of male genitalia show patterns of divergent evolution, whereas females have been less well studied. Using experimental evolution and quantitative genetic analysis, Simmons and Garcia-Gonzalez show that sexual selection drives the coevolution of female and male genital morphology in the dung beetleOnthophagus taurus.
- Leigh W. Simmons
- & Francisco Garcia-Gonzalez
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Article
| Open Access
Oceanic spawning ecology of freshwater eels in the western North Pacific
Little is known about the reproductive ecology of freshwater eels. In this article, the authors describe the capture of two species of eels together with eggs and newly hatched larvae, and suggest that spawning takes place during the new moon at shallower depths than previously thought.
- Katsumi Tsukamoto
- , Seinen Chow
- & Hideki Tanaka
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A novel gene required for male fertility and functional CATSPER channel formation in spermatozoa
The CATSPER heteromeric ion channel complex is required for male fertility and six protein components of the complex have been identified. In this study, the authors identify a seventh gene, CATSPERδ, which is necessary for functional CatSper channels and hyperactivated sperm motility.
- Jean-Ju Chung
- , Betsy Navarro
- & David E. Clapham
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Article
| Open Access
Superconception in mammalian pregnancy can be detected and increases reproductive output per breeding season
Superfetation, or conception while already pregnant, has been reported in some species. Using up-to-date ultrasound imaging techniques, the authors of this study confirm superconception in the European brown hare and suggest that this phenomenon is an evolutionary adaptation.
- Kathleen Roellig
- , Frank Goeritz
- & Thomas B. Hildebrandt
A gustatory receptor involved in host plant recognition for oviposition of a swallowtail butterfly