Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.

A gene that has remained essentially unchanged throughout evolution. Conservation of a gene indicates that it is unique and essential: There is not an extra copy of that gene with which evolution can tinker, and changes in the gene are likely to be lethal.

A set of outcomes. Cardiovascular events might include a heart attack and gastrointestinal events a GI bleed. The use of the term “event” in medicine comes from probability theory.

The state of having normal thyroid gland function. As opposed to hyperthyroid (overactive thyroid) or hypothyroid (underactive thyroid).

The tube that runs from the middle ear to the pharynx. The function of the Eustachian tube is to protect, aerate, and drain the middle ear and mastoid. The Eustachian tube permits the gas pressure in the middle ear cavity to adjust to external air pressure. When you are descending in an airplane, the Eustachian tube opens when…

Elevated mood. Euphoria is a desirable and natural occurrence when it results from happy or exciting events. An excessive degree of euphoria that is not linked to events is characteristic of hypomania or mania, abnormal mood states associated with bipolar disorders.

The study of causes, as in the causes of a disease. The form aetiology is generally used in the UK.

Poisoning from ethylene glycol (a clear, colorless, odorless liquid with a sweet taste) that can produce dramatic and dangerous toxicity. Ethylene glycol is found most commonly in antifreeze, automotive cooling systems, and hydraulic brake fluid. In an industrial setting it is also used as a solvent and in a variety of processes. Many cases of ethylene glycol…

Female hormones produced by the ovaries. Estrogen deficiency can lead to osteoporosis. Estrogen therapy preparations include: The brand names of estrogen therapy preparations include:

A female steroid hormone that is produced by the ovaries and, in lesser amounts, by the adrenal cortex, placenta, and male testes. Estrogen helps control and guide sexual development, including the physical changes associated with puberty. It also influences the course of ovulation in the monthly menstrual cycle, lactation after pregnancy, aspects of mood, and the aging process. Production of estrogen changes naturally over…

The due date or estimated calendar date when a baby will be born.