Dictionary

flow cytometry

floppy baby syndrome An abnormal condition of newborns and infants manifested by inadequate tone of the muscles. Floppy baby syndrome can be due to a multitude of neurologic and muscle problems. See also hypotonia.

flood supplies kit See disaster supplies.

floating rib The last two false ribs, which usually have no ventral attachment to anchor them in front. Also known as fluctuating or vertebral rib. See also false rib.

floaters Spots in the field of vision due to deposits of protein drifting about in the vitreous humor (the clear jelly-like substance that fills the middle of the eye). Also known as spots in front of the eyes.

Flexner Report A report, the full name of which is “Medical Education in the United States and Canada.” The 1910 report is named for its author, professional educator Abraham Flexner, who researched and wrote this report for the Carnegie Foundation. At the time that the report was written, many medical schools were proprietary schools operated…

flexion The process of bending, or the state of being bent. For example, flexion of the fingers results in a clenched fist.

flavivirus One of a family of viruses transmitted by mosquitos and ticks that cause some important diseases, including dengue, yellow fever, tick-borne encephalitis, and West Nile fever. Flaviviruses have single-stranded RNA as their genetic material.

flavin-containing monooxygenase-3 FMO3.

flatus Gas in the intestinal tract or gas passed through the anus. Intestinal gas contains numerous gases including oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen, carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, and methane. The foul smell usually is caused by small traces of gases such as hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, and methane.

flatulence The passing of gas from the intestinal tract. Also commonly known as farting. See also flatus.

flat feet Absence of an arch in the sole of the foot that causes the foot to lie flat when the person is standing. All babies have flat feet because their arches are not yet built up (and their feet tend to be plump). This condition may persist into adulthood, or an arch may form…