Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.

The distance between the lens of the eye and the point behind the lens where light is focused. in ophthalmology, distance between the lens and the point behind the lens at which light from a distant point is focused. In a normal-sighted person the point of focus is on the retina, but distortions in the…

Referring to a focus.  

A rapid movement, especially of the atria of the heart, which is not controlled by impulses from the sinoatrial node. Rapid movement back and forth of a part, especially of the heart chambers (atria and ventricles). A disturbance of normal heart rhythm that, like ‘fibrillation, may affect atria or ventricles. However, the arrhythmia is less…

With red skin, e.g. due to heat, emotion or overeating.  

A chemical element found in bones and teeth. Fluorine is a micromineral most often considered in its fluoride form as an ingredient in toothpastes and as an additive in drinking water. Although drinking water provides the majority of fluoride in the diets of most individuals, it is also found in seafood, particularly when the bones…

A chemical compound of fluorine and sodium, potassium or tin. An essential mineral. Present in low but varying concentrations in drinking water (1 mg/L), plants, and animals (fish: 50-100 mg per 100 g). It accumulates in human bone tissue and dental enamel. In appropriate amounts, fluoride serves to harden bones and teeth. If consumed in…

To add fluoride to a substance, usually to drinking water, in order to help prevent tooth decay.  

Referring to a substance which sends out light. In biology, having one color by transmitted light and another by reflected light.  

A parasitic flatworm which settles inside the liver, in the bloodstream and in other parts of the body. Parasitic worm belonging to the class Trematoda; passes through numerous stages and may infect the blood, intestines, liver, or lung. A member of the flatworm group; also called Trematoda. Flukes are parasitic and maintain complicated life cycles…

The maintenance of the balance of flitids in the body during dialysis or other treatment. The appropriate balance of fluid intake and output (along with dissolved salts essential for life) over 24 hours. During this period, about 2,500 millilitres (ml) of fluid should be taken in by a 70-kg man and the same amount excreted;…