Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.

The measurement and tracking of a chemical substance in a living organism or biological material such as blood or urine, usually to check environmental pollution or chemical exposure.  

The use of the principles of biology, biochemistry, physiology and other basic sciences to solve problems in clinical medicine. The study of the body’s ability to withstand unusual or extreme environments. Formal name for the health care practitioner is a medical doctor (M.D.). Also called allopathic. Western, modem, orthodox, or conventional medicine.  

The application of engineering science such as robotics and hydraulics to medicine. An engineer trained in biological applications of engineering, and who specializes in medical problems. Usually this application involves both the bioengineer and the medical scientist. Application of the principles and practices of engineering to biomedical research and health care, as seen in the…

A scientist who specialises in biology.  

A parent who was physically involved in producing a child.  

The rhythm of daily activities and bodily processes such as eating, defecating or sleeping, frequently controlled by hormones, which repeats every twenty-four hours. An internal system in organisms that influences behavior in a rhythmic manner. Functions such as growth, feeding, secretion of hormones, the rate of drug action, the wake-sleep cycle, the menstrual cycle, and…

Instruments used to record and display information about the body’s functions, or the use of such instruments.  

A danger to human beings or their environment, especially one from a poisonous or infectious agent. Something that endangers life or living things (e.g., a radiation overdose, an oil spill, insecticide overuse). Anything that is harmful or potentially harmful to humans, other species, or the environment.  

The study of the moral and ethical choices in medial research and treatment of patients, especially when advanced technology is available. Moral inquiry into issues raised by life sciences.  

Referring to twins who develop from two different ova. Originating from two eggs. This term is typically used to describe binovular twins, where each baby develops from a distinct egg.