Category: S

A charted band of wavelengths of electromagnetic vibrations obtained by refraction and diffraction. By extension, a measurable range of activity, such as the range of bacteria affected by an antibiotic (antibacterial s.) or the complete range of manifestations of a disease. In regard to AIDS, a range of factors associated with HIV infection or a…

In medicine, one who concentrates on 1 special branch of medical science. A person whose occupation is defined within narrow limits. A physician, dentist or other health professional who limits his practice to a certain branch of medicine or dentistry related to: specific services or procedures, e.g., surgery, radiology, pathology; certain age categories oi patients,…

Of the nature of a spasm. Periodic sharp attacks marked by spasms. Occurring in spasms. Happening from time to time.  

All the body cells except the reproductive (germ) cells. All eucaryote body cells except the gametes and the cells from which they develop. Non-reproductive cell of the body. A cell that is not a germ cell. Somatic cells have two sets of chromosomes (diploid) and include cells of many different shapes and functions.  

Pertaining to or characteristic of the soma or body. Pertaining to the body wall in contrast to the viscera. In anatomy, relating to the trunk. Referring to the body, either as opposed to the mind, or as opposed to the intestines and inner organs. Having to do with the body. Somatic is an adjective referring…

Dissolving; effecting a solution. A liquid that dissolves or that is capable of dissolving; the component of a solution that is present in greater amount. A substance in which another substance is dissolved (the solute). A liquid in which a solid substance can be dissolved.  

Cancer of body tissues other than blood, bone marrow, or the lymphatic system.  

The aggregate of social and cultural institutions, forms, patterns, and processes that influence the life of an individual or community. Related to socioeconomic factors, political and other social institutions associated with one’s way of life.  

Sodium or potassium salts of long chain fatty acids. These detergent substances are obtained by boiling natural oils or fats with caustic alkali. Sodium soaps are harder and are used as topical anti-infectives and vehicles in pills and liniments; potassium soaps are soft, used as vehicles for ointments and also as topical antimicrobials. A cleansing…

Sudden, forceful, involuntary expulsion of air from the nose and mouth caused by irritation to the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract. A sudden expulsion of air through the nose, designed to expel irritating materials from the upper air passages. In sneezing, a powerful expiratory effort is made, the vocal cords being kept shut…