Category: S
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State of matter
The condition in which matter exists under specified kinetic conditions (e.g. the pressure and temperature). All matter is in one or more states at any time: solid, liquid, gas, or plasma. The three different physical forms of matter solid, liquid, and gas.
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State children’s health insurance program
A state-based program providing health insurance for children whose parents have no private insurance and have incomes that exceed eligibility limits for Medicaid,
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Stasimorphia
A deformity caused by the failure to develop and grow.
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Startle syndrome
A rare, autosomal dominant neurological disorder in which affected persons have either brisk reflexes or sudden loss of consciousness with muscular rigidity when suddenly stim ulated (e.g., by a loud noise or bright light). Treatment with benzodiazepines, such as clonazepam, is often beneficial.
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Startle
A response to a sudden stimulus marked by jerking body movements and some or all of the following: defensive posture, tremors, sweating, widened pupils, and a temporary increase in pulse and respiratory rates.
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Star test pattern
In radiography, a test to evaluate the condition of the focal spot of the x-ray tube. An instrument specifically engineered for the assessment of the effective focal spot size of x-ray tubes.
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Starter
A pure culture of bacteria or other microorganism used to initiate a particular fermentation, as in the making of cheese.
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Star of life symbol
The symbol designated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) to represent providers of emergency medical services (EMS). It is displayed on EMS vehicles and outside the emergency departments of hospitals.
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Stargardt disease
An autosomal-recessive form of macular degeneration, marked by progressive central visual loss beginning in childhood or adolescence and worsening in middle age.
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Star excursion balance test
A test of dynamic stability used to assess function of the lower extremity. The patient stands on the test leg and reaches as far as possible in eight directions 45° apart (anterior, anteromedial, medial, posteromedial, posterior, posterolateral, lateral, and anterolateral) without using the reaching leg as a source of support. Scores are determined based on…