Category: D

Crossing over, similar to an X. The crossing of nerve fibres in the central nervous system. Natural crossing over of fibers, especially nerve fibers, or other parts from opposite sides of the body, to form an X shape. A point at which two or more structures of the body cross to the opposite side. The…

Bed sores. Term used to describe a pressure ulcer. Inflammation or sore on the skin over a bony prominence (e.g., shoulder blade, elbow, hip, buttocks, heel), resulting from prolonged pressure on the area, usually from being confined to bed. Most frequently seen in elderly and immobilized persons, decubitus ulcers may be prevented by frequent change…

Legal process of reducing the penalty for a particular behavior still restricted by law.  

In law, order of court of equity announcing the legal consequences of the facts found.  

In driving, a curve that becomes increasingly tighter as one drives into it.  

In psychology, a condition of escaping from reality, problems, physical and emotional pain; desire for total narcosis or insensibility.  

Killing or removing pathogens from inanimate objects. Methods used for incineration, drying, ultraviolet rays, or chemicals, disinfection. The removal of a contaminating substance such as radioactive material. The use of physical, chemical, or other means to remove, inactivate, or destroy harmful microorganisms or poisonous or radioactive chemicals from persons, spaces, surfaces, or objects. Decontamination differs…

To rid clothing, bed linen, a room, or vehicle of dangerous substances poisonous gases, microorganisms, sputum, feces, or urine usually in connection with contagious diseases or radioactivity.  

In psychology, the extinction of a learned habit by means of conditioning techniques, classical conditioning theory; instrumental conditioning. A loss of physical fitness due to failure to maintain an optimal level of physical activity or training. Inactivity for any reason may lead to deconditioning. For example, individuals placed on prolonged bedrest may experience overall deconditioning…

A component of information theory consisting of interpretation of the symbols of communication. The process of extracting meaning from symbols, such as written, spoken, or signed words or numbers. An important intellectual skill, basic to much learning, decoding poses significant problems for many people with brain dysfunction. A child with learning disabilities, especially dyslexia, for…