proband |
The family member through whom a family medically comes to light. The proband might for example be a baby with down syndrome. The proband may also be called the index case, propositus (if male) or proposita (if female). (12 Dec 1998) |
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probe |
<molecular biology> General term for a piece of DNA or RNA corresponding to a gene or sequence of interest, that has been labelled either radioactively or with some other detectable molecule, such as biotin, digoxygenin or fluorescein. As stretches of DNA or RNA with complementary sequences will (hybridise), a probe will label viral plaques, bacterial colonies or bands on a gel that contain the gene of interest. See: Northern blots, Southern blots. (18 Nov 1997) |
probe patency |
(of foramen ovale), a term introduced by B.M. Patten to cover incomplete fibrous adhesion of an adequate valvula foraminis ovalis in the postnatal closure of the foramen ovale. (05 Mar 2000) |
probe syringe |
A syringe with an olive-shaped tip, used in treatment of diseases of the lacrimal passages. (05 Mar 2000) |
probe-pointed |
<surgery> Having a blunt or button-shaped extremity; said of cutting instruments. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998) |
probeagle |
<zoology> See Porbeagle. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998) |
probenecid |
<chemical> The prototypical uricosuric agent. It inhibits the renal excretion of organic anions and reduces tubular reabsorption of urate. Probenecid has also been used to treat patients with renal impairment, and, because it reduces the renal tubular excretion of other drugs, has been used as an adjunct to antibacterial therapy. Pharmacological action: renal agents, uricosuric agents. Chemical name: Benzoic acid, 4-((dipropylamino)sulfonyl)- (12 Dec 1998) |
probilifuscins |
See: bilirubinoids. (05 Mar 2000) |
probiosis |
An association of two organisms that enhances the life processes of both. Compare: antibiosis, symbiosis, mutualism. Origin: pro-+ G. Biosis, life (05 Mar 2000) |
probiotic |
General term for a substance that promotes the growth of microorganisms. (09 Oct 1997) |
probiotics |
Live microbial feed supplements which beneficially affect the host animal by improving its intestinal microbial balance. Antibiotics and other related compounds are not included in this definition. In humans, lactobacilli are commonly used as probiotics, either as single species or in mixed culture with other bacteria. Other genera that have been used are bifidobacteria and streptococci. (j. Nutr. 1995;125:1401-12) (12 Dec 1998) |
probity |
Tried virtue or integrity; approved moral excellence; honesty; rectitude; uprightness. "Probity of mind." Synonym: Probity, Integrity. Probity denotes unimpeachable honesty and virtue, shown especially by the performance of those obligations, called imperfect, which the laws of the state do not reach, and can not enforce. Integrity denotes a whole-hearted honesty, and especially that which excludes all injustice that might favor one's self. It has a peculiar reference to uprightness in mutual dealings, transfer of property, and the execution of trusts for others. Origin: F. Probite, fr. L. Probitas, fr. Probus good, proper, honest. Cf. Prove. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998) |
problem |
1. A question proposed for solution; a matter stated for examination or proof; hence, a matter difficult of solution or settlement; a doubtful case; a question involving doubt. 2. <mathematics> Anything which is required to be done; as, in geometry, to bisect a line, to draw a perpendicular; or, in algebra, to find an unknown quantity. Problem differs from theorem in this, that a problem is something to be done, as to bisect a triangle, to describe a circle, etc.; a theorem is something to be proved, as that all the angles of a triangle are equal to two right angles. <geometry> Plane problem, a problem requiring in its geometric solution the use of a conic section or higher curve. Origin: F. Probleme, L. Problema, fr. Gr. Anything thrown forward, a question proposed for solution, fr. To throw or lay before; before, forward + to throw. Cf. Parable. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998) |
problem area wetland |
<ecology> A wetland that is difficult to identify because it may lack indicators of wetland hydrology and/or hydric soils, or its dominant plant species are more common of nonwetlands. (09 Oct 1997) |
problem solving |
A learning situation involving more than one alternative from which a selection is made in order to attain a specific goal. (12 Dec 1998) |