Category: M
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Microgyria
A developmental disorder of the brain in which the folds (convolutions) in its surface are small and its surface layer (cortex) is structurally abnormal. It is associated with mental and physical retardation. Abnormal smallness of cerebral convolutions.
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Micrograph
A photograph of an object viewed through a microscope. An electron micrograph is photographed through an electron microscope; a light micrograph through a light microscope. Apparatus for magnifying and recording minute movements.
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Microgametocyte
A cell that undergoes meiosis to form 6-8 mature male sex cells (microgametes) of the malarial parasite (Plasmodium). Microgametocytes are found in the blood of man but must be ingested by a mosquito before developing into microgametes.
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Microelectrode
An extremely fine wire used as an electrode to measure the electrical activity in small areas of tissue. Microelectrodes can be used for recording the electrical changes that occur in the membranes of cells, such as those of nerve and muscle.
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Microdissection
The process of dissecting minute structures under the microscope. Miniature surgical instruments, such as knives made of glass, are manipulated by means of geared connections that reduce the relatively coarse movements of the operator’s fingers into microscopic movements. Using this technique it is possible to dissect the nuclei of cells and even to separate individual…
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Microblepharon
The condition of having abnormally small eyelids.
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Mianserin
A drug used to relieve moderate or severe depression and anxiety. It is administered by mouth; side-effects are usually milder than with other potent antidepressants, the commonest being drowsiness. An antidepressant medication employed for managing severe depression, particularly when coupled with anxiety or insomnia. Mianserin typically requires a few weeks to attain its maximum effectiveness.…
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Metropathia hemorrhagica
Abnormal loss of blood in the womb, resulting from disease. The lining membrane of the womb usually thickens and there may be fluid-filled sacs in the ovary. Painless and excessive bleeding from the uterus, linked to ovarian changes, and likely originating from a hormonal imbalance.
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Methylthiouracil
A drug that inhibits thyroid activity, used to treat overactivity of the thyroid gland. It is administered by mouth; side-effects may include rashes, digestive upsets, and headache.
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Methyltestosterone
A synthetic male sex hormone administered by mouth to treat sexual underdevelopment in men. It is also used to suppress lactation, to treat menstrual and menopausal disorders, and to treat breast cancer in women.