Category: N

  • Nuclear medicine

    A branch of radiology that uses nuclear physics to diagnose and treat disease. The use of radioactive substances for detecting and treating disorders. A medical specialty that involves the use of radioactive materials in diagnosis and therapy, in techniques such as nuclear scans. The use of radioisotopes (radioactive forms of chemical elements) to diagnose and…

  • Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)

    A brain imaging technique that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce an image. Also known as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A new, noninvasive diagnostic method that uses magnetic forces to produce cross-sectional images of body structures; also called magnetic resonance imaging. A phenomenon in which the atomic nuclei of certain materials placed…

  • Nuclear fallout

    Radioactive debris that reaches the earth’s surface following a nuclear explosion.  

  • Nuclear energy

    The energy contained within the atomic nucleus. The energy liberated through either nuclear fission or nuclear fusion processes. It is commonly referred to as atomic energy, atomic power, or nuclear power. The energy liberated due to alterations in atomic nuclei is referred to as nuclear energy. This form of energy, also called atomic energy, is…

  • Nuchal

    Pertaining to the nape of the neck. An adjective applied to the structures at the back of the neck. In children with down’s syndrome there is a fold of skin at this point (nuchal fold) which can be seen on antenatal ultrasound screening, thereby assisting with early diagnosis.  

  • Novocain

    A drug used for local anesthesia.  

  • Notochord

    A longitudinal rod of cells in the embryo of a vertebrate that gives rise to the backbone of the adult. Rod-like structure in the embryo that in humans and other vertebrates is replaced by the vertebral column. A strip of mesodermal tissue that develops along the dorsal surface of the early embryo, beneath the neural…

  • Notec

    A commercial preparation of chloral hydrate.  

  • Nostrum

    A device or drug that is ineffective as claimed by a quack to produce miraculous results. Folk remedy that may be ineffective in treatment of a clinical condition.  

  • No-strike clause

    An agreement by the union with management not to go on strike for the duration of the contract.