Glossary
I
identity disc
worn by troops during World War 2
idiot
An out of date medical term for a person with profound mental developmental deficiencies. Now considered a term of abuse.
image analyser
consisting of a microscope, camera and detection unit; used to analyse and measure selected componets in an image
immune
To be protected against infectious disease.
immune serum
Immune serum, blood serum from an immunised animal used for passive immunisation, an antiserum, antitoxin or antivenin.
immunisation
A process that improves a organism's ability to resist or overcome infection.
immunity
The condition of being immune, the protection against infectious disease conferred either by the immune response generated by immunisation or previous infection or by other nonimmunologic factors.
immunoglobin
Immunoglobin is a Y-shaped protein that responds to specific attacks upon the body.
immunoglobulin
A specific protein substance that is produced by cells to aid in fighting infection
immunology
A biological speciality. Immunology is the study of the immune system, including how humans fight off disease.
impotence
The inability to gain an erection, or for long enough to sustain intercourse. Around one in ten men are affected regularly, and most men experience erectile dysfunction at some point.
incontinence
The inability to control the passage of urine or faeces.
incubator
A container in which environmental conditions can be maintained. When babies are born prematurely, they are placed in an incubator to maintain the correct temperature and humidity.
indenture
Legally binding agreements between two or more parties. Usually contracts binding one person to work for another for a given period of time.
induction coil
A type of electrical transformer used to produce a high-voltage alternating current from a low-voltage direct current source.
industrial fermenter
Large stainless steel tank used to grow micro-organisms for the industrial production of enzymes and other chemicals.
inflammation
The body’s response to injury. An inflammation is marked by redness, heat, pain, swelling, and often loss of function. The process leads to the elimination of noxious agents and of damaged tissue.
influenza
A highly contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system. Common symptoms of the disease are chills and fever, sore throat, muscle pains, severe headache, coughing, weakness and general discomfort. In more serious cases, influenza may cause pneumonia, which can be fatal.
infusion
The introduction of a fluid other than blood into a vein.
inhalation
The drawing of air or other substances into the lungs