Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.
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Lamarckism
A theory concerning the environmental origin of adaptive variation. Theory of evolution, postulated by Jean Baptiste Lamarck in the 19th century, that holds that adaptations to environmental conditions lead to structural changes in organisms, through the increased use or disuse of certain parts, and that these acquired characteristics are then transmitted to the offspring.
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Laminaria
Plugs made of seaweed that, on exposure to moisture, expand and dilate the canal into which they have been placed. An organic therapeutic device crafted from a specific variety of marine algae is strategically positioned in close proximity to the cervix with the intention of inducing its gradual expansion. This innovative medical product harnesses the…
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Laissez faire
A doctrine that government should not interfere with business or personal activities.
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Laetrile
An unproven method of cancer treatment. It is derived from apricot kernels and contains a chemical substance known as amygdaline, a poisonous compound that releases cyanide when acted upon by the body’s enzymes is forbidden in interstate commerce in the United States but is a legal drug in some states. To date, there is no…
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Ladder splint
A flexible splint consisting of two stout parallel wires and five cross-wires that resemble a ladder.
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Lacto vegetarian diet
A vegetarian diet that permits the use of dairy products.
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Lactogenesis
The initiation of milk production after delivery of the baby, lactogenic hormone.
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Lactobacillus acidophilus
A bacterium believed to be responsible for tooth decay (dental caries). Milk-borne organism, pleomorphic in habit, grows at pH 4.0, and from its possible association with dental caries is also known as L. odontolyticus. L acidophilus is used to sour milk, the product being drunk therapeutically. A species that produces lactic acid by fermenting the…
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Lactobacilli
Bacteria in the vagina that aid in keeping it (the vagina) healthy, Doderlein’s bacilli. Lactobacilli is a genus of bacteria that has many species, perhaps the most well known of which is L acidophilus, that are involved in keeping the gastrointestinal tract healthy. L acidophilus other lactobacilli species are found naturally in the body and…
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Lactiferous sinus
A vessel that transports milk from the milk-producing acini to the opening of the nipple. A dilatation of the lactiferous duct at the base of the nipple.
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