Category: L

Hospital suites in which a maternity patient can remain in the same suite from admission to the hospital, through labor, delivery, and recovery in the postpartum period until the time of discharge. Procedures such as caesarean sections are not performed in such suites, however. In some hospitals LDRPSs are replacing labor-delivery-recovery suites (LDRSs) in which…

An interaction between a bacteriophage and its host in which a latent form of the phage (prophage) exists within the bacterial cell, which is not destroyed. Under certain conditions (e.g. irradiation of the bacterium) the phage can develop into an active form, which reproduces itself and eventually destroys the bacterial cell. A special type of…

A synthetic female sex hormone used mainly in oral contraceptives, together with an estrogen. It is also used to treat menstrual disorders.  

One of a group of enzymes that catalyze the linking of groups by double bonds. The class name for enzymes (such as decarboxylase, aldolase, and synthases) that remove organic bonds between carbon atoms, carbon and oxygen atoms, or carbon and nitrogen atoms without hydrolysis or oxygenation. One of the molecules that is created has a…

SI unit of intensity of illumination, equal to 1 lumen per square meter. This unit was formerly called the meter candle. To cause the relaxation or displacement of a tooth from its anchoring socket.  

A tuberculous infection of the skin, commonly the arm or hand, typified by warty lesions. It occurs in those who have been reinfected with tuberculosis.    

A bone of the wrist. It articulates with the capitate bone in front and with the radius and ulna behind.  

The five bones of the backbone that are situated between the thoracic vertebrae and the sacrum, in the lower part of the back. They are the largest of the unfused vertebrae and have stout processes for attachment of the strong muscles of the lower back. The lower back region of the human spinal column, situated…

A small magnifying hand lens used for examining the front part of the eye. It is usually used with a pocket flashlight to provide illumination. A magnifying lens used in the form of a monocular or binocular lens. Surgeons, dentists, jewelers, and watchmakers frequently use this device.  

The scientific study of defects and disabilities of speech and of the methods used to treat them; speech therapy.