Hu Health Dictionary

A glycoprotein hormone secreted by the PLACENTA in early pregnancy, and stimulating the CORPUS LUTEUM within the ovary (see OVARIES) to secrete OESTROGENS, PROGESTERONE, and relaxin. The hormone is essential for the maintenance of pregnancy up to about 6–8 weeks of gestation. A RADIOIMMUNOASSAY can be used to detect its presence, and pregnancy can be diagnosed as early as six days after conception by testing for it in the urine. Some tumours also secrete human chorionic gonadotrophin, particularly HYDATIDIFORM MOLE, which produces large amounts.... human chorionic gonadotrophin

The bone of the upper arm. It has a rounded head, which helps to form the shoulder-joint, and at its lower end presents a wide pulley-like surface for union with the radius and ulna. Its epicondyles form the prominences at the sides of the elbow.... humerus

In simple terms, this is the genetic recipe for making a human being. GENOME is a combination of the words gene and chromosome, and a genome is de?ned as all the genetic material – known as deoxyribonucleic acid, or DNA – in a cell. Most genes encode sequences of AMINO ACIDS, the constituents of proteins, thus initiating and controlling the replication of an organism. The identi?cation and characterisation of the human genetic puzzle have been a key bioscience research target. The Human Genome Project was launched in 1990 (and completed in 2003) to produce a full sequence of the three million base pairs that make up the human genome.

Carried out as two separate exercises – one by a privately funded American team; another by an international joint venture between tax-funded American laboratories, a charitably funded British one and several other smaller research teams from around the world – the ?rst results were announced on 26 June 2000. In February 2001 the privately funded American group, known as Celera Genomics, announced that it had identi?ed 26,558 genes. At the same time the Human Genome Project consortium reported that it had identi?ed 31,000. Allowing for margins of error, this gives a ?gure much lower than the 100,000 or more human genes previously forecast by scientists. Interestingly, genes were found to make up only 3 per cent of the human genome. The remaining 97 per cent of the genome comprises non-coding DNA which, though not involved in producing the protein-initiating genetic activity, does have signi?cant roles in the structure, function and evolution of the genome.

One surprise from the Project so far is that the genetic di?erences between humans and other species seem much smaller than previously expected. For example, the Celera team found that people have only 300 genes that mice do not have; yet, the common ancestor of mice and men probably lived 100 million years or more in the past. Mice and humans, however, have around twice as many genes as the humble fruit ?y.

Cells die out when they become redundant during embryonic development: genes also die out during evolution, according to evidence from the Genome Project – a ?nding that supports the constant evolutionary changes apparent in living things; the Darwinian concept of survival of the ?ttest.

Apart from expanding our scienti?c knowledge, the new information – and promise of much more as the Genome Project continues – should enhance and expand the use of genetic engineering in the prevention and cure of disease. Studies are in progress on the gene for a receptor protein in the brain which will shed light on how the important neurotransmitter SEROTONIN in the brain works, and this, for example, should help the development of better drugs for the treatment of DEPRESSION. Another gene has been found that is relevant to the development of ASTHMA and yet another that is involved in the production of amyloid, a complex protein which is deposited in excessive amounts in both DOWN’S (DOWN) SYNDROME and ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE.... human genome

An archaic term once used for a theory regarding the causation of disease as due to an improper mixture in the body of blood, bile, phlegm and black bile. The term remains in describing some body ?uids, such as the aqueous and vitreous humours of the EYE.... humour

A craving for food or other substance necessary to bodily activity. Hunger for food is supposed to be directly produced by strong contractions of the stomach which occur when it is empty, or nearly so. (See also THIRST.)

Air hunger is an instinctive craving for oxygen resulting in breathlessness, either when a person ascends to great heights where the pressure of air is low, or in some diseases such as pneumonia and DIABETES MELLITUS which affect the body’s METABOLISM and therefore its need for oxygen – an essential constituent in this process.... hunger

A watery fluid that fills the front chamber of the eye, behind the cornea.... aqueous humour

A type of virus that is responsible for warts and genital warts.

There are over 50 strains of human papillomavirus.

Infection with some of these strains is thought to be a causative factor in cervical cancer and anal cancer.... human papillomavirus

An uncommon disease in which degeneration of the basal ganglia results in chorea and dementia. Symptoms of Huntington’s disease do not usually appear until age 35–50. The disease is due to a defective gene and is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner (see genetic disorders).

The chorea usually affects the face, arms, and trunk, resulting in random grimaces and twitches, and clumsiness. Dementia takes the form of irritability, personality and behavioural changes, memory loss, and apathy.

At present, there is no cure for Huntington’s disease, and treatment is aimed at reducing symptoms with drugs.... huntington’s disease

A rare, inherited condition caused by an enzyme defect. The syndrome is a type of inborn error of metabolism (see metabolism, inborn errors of) in which there is an abnormal accumulation of substances known as mucopolysaccharides in the tissues.

Affected children may appear normal at birth but, at 6–12 months of age, they develop cardiac abnormalities, umbilical hernia, skeletal deformities, and enlargement of the tongue, liver, and spleen.

Growth is limited and mental development slows.

If the condition is diagnosed in early infancy, a bone marrow transplant may be curative.... hurler’s syndrome

The transparent, gellike body that fills the rear compartment of the eye between the crystalline lens and the retina.

The vitreous humour consists almost entirely of water.... vitreous humour

Vaccinium and Gaylussacia species

Description: These shrubs vary in size from 30 centimeters to 3.7 meters tall. All have alternate, simple leaves. Their fruits may be dark blue, black, or red and have many small seeds.

Habitat and Distribution: These plants prefer open, sunny areas. They are found throughout much of the north temperate regions and at higher elevations in Central America.

Edible Parts: Their fruits are edible raw.... blueberry and huckleberry

The name of the causative agent of AIDS.... hiv (human immunodeficiency virus)

(Chinese) Yellow... huang

Huang Jin Gui Tea, meaning “Golden Osmanthus”, is a type ofoolong tea, originating from the Fujian province of China. The drink earns its name through the golden liquor obtained after infusing the yellowish green leaves which offer the tea a distinct flowery honeysuckle aroma of Osmathus. The sweet flowery scent combines with a fruity flavour and complex refreshing taste. Huang Jin Gui Tea Brewing Huang Jin Gui Tea leaves allow multiple infusions, each of them providing a new character to the beverage. The brewing of Huang Jin Gui Tea should be made at a temperature of approximately 85 degrees Celsius. Allow two or three minutes for the steeping process in order to obtain a mild, smooth flavour. If brewed according to these instructions, Huang Jin Gui tea is low in caffeine. When to Drink Huang Jin Gui Tea A cup of Huang Jin Gui tea is suitable for drinking at any point during the day because it is only slightly oxidized and lacks the astringency of green tea. Its delightful light taste and floral aroma guarantee you will gladly enjoy several cups a day, discovering new layers of taste after every brew. You can serve it how or cold and benefit from the long lasting aftertaste and subtle hint of honey. Huang Jin Gui Tea Health Benefits Huang Jin Gui Tea brings a variety ofhealth benefits for the drinker, which include a valuable aid in the process of losing weight. Drinking Huang Jin Gui tea benefits your skin and strengthens your teeth. It is also a contributive factor in the prevention of cancer and heart disease and it helps improving the drinker’s metabolism and overall life quality. Huang Jin Gui tea helps reduce the blood sugar levels, which is beneficial for diabetic patients and last, but not least, it has a stress-relieving effect and it stimulates mental awareness. Huang Jin Gui Tea Side Effects As compared with the health benefits it brings, the side effects of Huang Jin Gui Tea are almost insignificant. The most common side effects are related to the large caffeine intake, which can lead to insomnia, dizziness, nausea, headaches or irregular heartbeat. Huang Jin Gui tea is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women and people who suffer from stomach ulcers, kidney or heart problems. Moreover, it is strongly advisable to consult with a specialist before includingHuang Jin Gui tea into your dietary plan, as the drink could interact with certain medications. Huang Jin Gui is a delicious variety of oolong tea with a rich, brisk taste that brings along an energy surplus. It is relatively easy to prepare and the leaves can be infused at least three times, surprising the drinker with each cup.... huang jin gui tea health benefits

(Arabic) An ambitious and focused woman... hubab

Luck, Protection, Dream Magic, Hex Breaking... huckleberry

(Arabic) One who provides the right guidance

Hooda, Hudah, Hoodah, Houda, Houdah... huda

(Scandinavian) One who is lovable Hudell, Hudele, Hudelle, Hudela, Hudella... hudel

(Hebrew) Form of Judith, meaning “woman from Judea”... hudes

(Arabic) One who chooses the right path

Hudie, Hudy, Hudey, Hudee, Hudea... hudi

(English) One who is adventurous; an explorer

Hudsen, Hudsan, Hudsun, Hudsyn, Hudsin... hudson

(Arabic) One who is peaceful; quiet... hudun

(German) An intelligent woman Huelene, Huelyne, Hueleine, Hueliene, Hueleene, Huleane... hueline

(German) Feminine form of Hugh; having a bright mind; an intelligent woman Huguetta, Hugette, Huetts, Hughetta, Hughette, Hugiet, Huberta, Huberte, Hubertine, Hubertina, Huet, Hueta, Huetta, Huitta, Huitte, Hugetta, Hughette, Huyet, Huyete, Huyette, Huyett, Huyetta, Hughet, Hugiherahta, Huela, Huella... huette

Egg; also, yema de huevo (egg yolk); used for treating anemia; said to fortify red blood cells; eggshell (cáscara de huevo) can be added as an ingredient to home remedies.... huevo

Linn.

Family: Linaceae.

Habitat: Konkan and North Kanara, throughout dry forests of Tamil Nadu.

Folk: Kaakibeeraa, Kansamaara.

Siddha/Tamil: Agori. Motirakkanni.

Action: Root—anti-inflammatory, febrifuge; disperses swellings.... hugonia mystax

(Maori) Form of Susan, meaning “resembling a graceful white lily” Huhanah, Huhanna, Huhanne, Huhann, Huhane... huhana

(Hebrew) Resembling a weasel; in the Bible, the name of a prophetess Hulda... huldah

(German) One who is dearly loved... hulde

(Arabic) A bird who brings good fortune

Humah, Humma, Humaa, Hummaa... huma

(Asian) A generous woman Humaira, Humayraa, Humayra, Humaeraa, Humaera... humairaa

Human skills and capabilities generated by investments in education and health.... human capital

A composite index that measures the overall achievements in a country in three basic dimensions of human development— longevity, knowledge and a decent standard of living. It is measured by life expectancy, educational attainment and adjusted income per capita in purchasing power parity (PPP) US dollars. The HDI is a summary, not a comprehensive measure of human development.... human development index (hdi)

See ASSISTED CONCEPTION.... human fertilisation & embryology act 1990

See ASSISTED CONCEPTION.... human fertilisation & embryology authority (hfea)

See AIDS/HIV.... human immunodeficiency virus

See HLA SYSTEM.... human leucocyte antigen (hla)

UK legislation that lays down the framework and rules governing organ transplantation. The UK Transplant Support Service Authority (UKTSSA), a special health authority set up in 1991, is responsible for administering the NHS Organ Donor Registry and the Act (see APPENDIX 7: STATUTORY ORGANISATIONS).... human organs transplants act

The study of the interrelationships between humans, the tools they use, and the environment in which they live and work.... human-factor research

A form of ALVEOLITIS caused by contamination of the water used to humidify, or moisten, the air in air-conditioning plants. The breathing of the contaminated air results in infection of the lung, which is characterised by fever, cough, shortness of breath and malaise – worse on Monday and tending to improve during the

course of the week. (See also LEGIONNAIRE’S DISEASE.)... humidifier fever

(Native American) One who shells corn

Humitah, Humyta, Humeeta, Humieta, Humeita, Humeata, Humytah, Humeetah, Humietah, Humeitah, Humeatah... humita

The air we breathe must be moist for the e?cient working of the lungs (see RESPIRATION). Humidi?cation, or moistening of the air, is achieved largely by the NOSE, which acts as an air-conditioner, warming, moistening and ?ltering the 10,000 litres of air which we inhale daily – in the process of which, incidentally, it produces around 1·5 litres of secretion daily.

Humidity is expressed as relative humidity (RH). This is the amount of moisture in the air expressed as a percentage of the maximum possible at that temperature. If the temperature of a room is raised without increasing the moisture content, the RH falls. The average outdoor RH in Britain is around 70–80 per cent; with central heating it may drop to 25 per cent or lower. This is why humidi?cation, as it is known, of the air is essential in buildings heated by modern heating systems. The aim should be to keep the RH at around 30–50 per cent. In houses this may be achieved quite satisfactorily by having a jug or basin of water in the room, or some receptacle that can be attached to the heater. In o?ces, some more elaborate form of humidi?er is necessary. Those suffering from chronic BRONCHITIS are particularly susceptible to dry air, as are those individuals with disorders of the EYE because the secretions that bathe the eyes and keep them moist are unnaturally dried out. (See also VENTILATION.)... humidification

Linn.

Family: Cannabinaceae.

Habitat: Native to Europe and Asia. Conditions for its successful cultivation are reported to exist in Kashmir and parts of Himachal Pradesh.

English: Hops.

Unani: Hashish-ut-Dinaar.

Action: Flowers—sedative, hypnotic, nervine tonic, diuretic, spasmolytic on smooth muscle, analgesic, astringent. Used for nervous diseases, intestinal cramps, menopause, insomnia, neuralgia and nervous diarrhoea. Also as a tonic in stomach and liver affections. As a blood cleanser, the root is used like sarsaparilla.

Key application: In mood disturbances, such as restlessness and anxiety, sleep disturbances. (German Commission E. ESCOP.)

The British Herbal Compendium and The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia reported herb's action as sedative, soporific, spasmolytic and aromatic bitter, and indicated its use for excitability, restlessness, disorders of sleep and lack of appetite.

Hop cones consist of the whole dried female inflorescences of Humu- lus lupulus.

Hop contains bitter principles— lupulin containing humulon, lupulon and valerianic acid; volatile oil (0.31.0%) including humulene; flavonoids including xanthohumole; polypheno- lic tannins, asparagin, oestrogenic substances.

Bitter principles stimulate the digestive system. Valerianic acid is sedative. The resin components, lupulon and humulon are antiseptic against Grampositive bacteria. Asparagin is diuretic. Research suggested that the anti- spasmodic effect is stronger than the sedative, and hops also possess antihis- taminic and anti-oxytocic properties. (Cases of amenorrhoea and dysmen- orrhoea are treated with hops.)

Hop extracts exert different effects on CNS in mice. They show hypother- mic, hypnotic, sedative, muscle relaxing and spontaneous locomotor activities, besides potentiating pentobarbital anaesthesia in mice.

Humulone inhibited induced inflammation in mice.

The dried strobila containing humu- lone and lupulone showed antidiabetic activity in experimental rats.

Hop mash or extract is used in the preparation of toothpaste for inhibiting Gram-positive bacteria and in hair preparations for preventing dandruff formation. It is also used in skin- lightening creams.... humulus lupulus

(English) A great huntress and provider... hunter

(Vietnamese) Having a delicate scent of a flower... huong

(Arabic) A red-haired woman Hureaira, Hurairah, Hurayra, Hurayrah, Huraera, Huraerah... huraira

(Arabic) A catlike woman Huraivah, Hurayva, Hurava, Huraeva... huraiva

(Native American) A beauty... hurit

(Arabic) An independent woman; freedom

Huriya, Huriyyah, Hooriya, Huriyya, Hooriyah... huriyah

See GARGOYLISM.... hurler’s syndrome

(English) A healthy woman Hurly, Hurli, Hurlie, Hurlee, Hurlea, Hurleigh... hurley

(Hebrew) A quick-witted woman Hushae, Hushay, Husha, Hushaye... hushai

The term applied to the narrowed and notched permanent incisor teeth which occur in congenital SYPHILIS. They are so-named after Sir Jonathan Hutchinson (1828–1913), the London physician who ?rst described them.... hutchinson’s teeth

(Hurrian) In mythology, the goddess of fate

Hutenah, Hutenna, Hutyna, Hutina... hutena

(English) One who is knowledgeable Huttan, Hutten, Huttun, Huttyn, Huttin... hutton

A hereditary disease characterised by involuntary movements and DEMENTIA. Each child of a parent with the disease has a 50:50 chance of developing it. Onset is most common between the ages of 35 and 45, but 10 per cent of cases occur under the age of 20. Some patients show more severe mental disturbance; others more severe disturbances of movement; but in all it pursues an inexorable downward course over a period of 10–20 years to a terminal state of physical and mental helplessness. It is estimated that there are around 6,000 cases in Britain. The defective gene (located on chromosome no. 4) has now been identi?ed and GENETIC SCREENING is possible for those at risk. People with Huntington’s chorea and their relatives can obtain help and guidance from Huntington’s Disease Association.... huntington’s chorea

Linn.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Native to tropical America; introduced into India.

English: Sandbox tree, Monkey Dinner-bell.

Siddha/Tamil: Mullarasanam.

Action: Seed, bark and fresh latex— emetocathartic, antileprotic. Seed— insecticidal, piscidal.

In South America, a poultice made from the latex is used for treating cutaneous leishmaniasis. Highly irritant and tumour-promoting deterpene esters (DTC) have been detected in the latex. Latex gave the triterpenes, 24- methylene cycloartanol, cycloartanol and butyrospermol. Sap of the plant gave a diterpene hexaol ester, huratox- in, and a glycolipoprotein, crepitin.... hura crepitans

(Arabic) One who is gentle Huwaydah, Huwaida, Huwayda, Huwaeda, Huwaedah... huwaidah

(American) One who is creative Huxleigh, Huxly, Huxley, Huxli, Huxlie, Huxlea... huxlee

(Native American) Daughter of the rain

Huyanna, Huyane, Huyann, Huyanne... huyana

(Vietnamese) A woman with jetblack hair... huyen

Linn.

Synonym: J. humile auct. non L. J. bignoniaceum Wall ex G. Don.

Family: Oleaceae.

Habitat: Sub-tropical Himalayas from Kashmir to Nepal and in the Nilgiris, Palni Hills, Western Ghats and Kerala.

English: Yellow Jasmine, Nepal Jasmine, Italian Jasmine.

Ayurvedic: Svarna-yuuthikaa, Svarnajaati, Hemapushpikaa, Vaasanti.

Siddha/Tamil: Semmalligai.

Folk: Juuhi (yellow var.).

Action: Flower—astringent, cardiac tonic. Root—used in ringworm. The milky juice, exuded from incisions in the bark, is used for treating chronic fistulas. The plant is also used for treating hard lumps.

The leaves gave alpha-amyrin, be- tulin, friedelin, lupeol, betulinic, olea- nolic and ursolic acids; beta-sitosterol, 10-cinnamoyloxyoleoside-7-methyl- ester (jasminoside) and a secoiridoid glycoside.... jasminum humile

(body louse) di?ers from the head and crab louse in that it lives in clothing and only goes on to the body to feed. Infestation is found in vagabonds, armies in the ?eld, or prisoners in conditions where even minimal hygiene is impossible. The lice are found in the seams of clothing together with multiple eggs. Typically excoriation and pigmentation are seen on the back of the infested person. Replacement of clothing or autoclaving or hot ironing of the clothes is curative.... pediculus humanus var. corporis

Linn.

Synonym: R. laevis Linn.

Family: Phytolacaceae.

Habitat: Native to warmer parts of America; introduced into Indian gardens.

English: Baby Pepper, Dog Blood, Blood Berry, Rouge-Plant.

Action: Berries—febrifuge, intestinal antiseptic.

A betaxanthin, humilixanthin, has been isolated from the berry.

A decoction of the herb is used for cold, chest congestion and pain, diarrhoea and jaundice. Berries alleviate dysentery and amenorrhoea.

Pounded leaves are used for wound- healing and for treating catarrh.... rivina humilis

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. See: BOVINE SPONGIFORM ENCEPHALOPATHY. ... mad-cow disease, human

Wounds caused by one person biting another. Human bites rarely cause serious tissue damage or blood loss, but infection is likely, particularly if the bite is deep. There is a risk of tetanus infection. Transmission of hepatitis B, herpes simplex, and AIDS by a bite is a theoretical hazard.... bites, human

The complete set of human genetic material. The human genome consists of 23 chromosomes, which, together, contain about 30,000 genes. All body cells contain 2 sets of the 23 chromosomes, one set inherited from the father and the other from the mother. An international research programme, the Human Genome Project, was launched in 1990 with the aim of identifying all the human genes. The first rough draft of the project was published in 2000.... genome, human

A hormone produced by the placenta in early pregnancy. Human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) stimulates the ovaries to produce oestrogen and progesterone, which are needed for a healthy pregnancy. HCG is excreted in the urine, and its presence in urine is the basis of pregnancy tests on urine samples. ... gonadotrophin, human chorionic

French beans. Phaseolus vulgaris L. French: Haricot. German: Bohnen. Spanish: Habichuela seca. Italian: Fagoilo. Indian: Khurdya. Chinese: Lu-tou. Iranian: Bendo mash. Constituents: phaseoline, mucilage, minerals including sulphur.

Keynote: kidneys. Part used: pods without beans.

Action: hypotensive, diuretic, anti-diabetic, resolvent, glycaemic – to regulate blood sugar.

Uses: Water retention. Albuminuria (proteinuria), especially of pregnancy. Oedema of cardiac origin. Premenstrual tension. Diabetes mellitus. Hyperinsulinism. To induce loss of weight. Swollen legs and ankles. Hypoglycaemia. Sometimes given in combination with Bladderwrack.

Preparations: Capt Frank Roberts Bean Cure. 40 grams of the dried herb soaked for 6 hours in 750ml (1 and a half pints) cold water. Boil, half an hour. Drink all over 1-2 days for water retention.

Roasted beans: nutritious coffee substitute.

French bean water (after cooking beans without salt) used traditionally in France for a soaked-lint compress for leg ulcer.

Powder. Capsules, 200mg. Dose: 8 capsules: 2 in morning, 3 at midday, 3 in the evening, at beginning of meals. (Arkocaps) ... bean husks

Astragalus membranaceus. Chinese anti-viral, anti-bacterial. Immune system enhancer. 2,000-year old herb drunk as tea in China.

Action. Anti-infective against Coxsackie virus. Immune stimulant. Antiviral.

Uses: Myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME). Upper respiratory infection. For increased white blood cell count, improved sleep habits and to stimulate appetite in patients receiving chemotherapy and radiation. (American Health 1989 8th Oct. –100) To increase production of interferon. Gastric ulcer therapy. Influenza. The common cold. To combat Coxsackie B myocarditis. Of value for incontinence and frequency of urine. Inhibits HIV-1 replication in cells acutely or chronically infected.

Preparation. Decoction. Dried root: 2 teaspoons to each cup of water simmered gently 20 minutes. Half- 1 cup thrice daily. ... huang qi

Degenerative disease of the cortex and basal ganglia of the brain with mental retardation, jerky movements of face and limbs. Onset: 30-45 years. Hereditary.

Differential diagnosis: arterio-sclerosis, Sydenham’s chorea.

Action. Emotional instability ranging from apathy to irritability. Complicated by menstrual problems (Motherwort, Helonias, Black Cohosh). Regresses into dementia. No cure possible, but anti-convulsants may reduce contortions and restlessness. Institutional care may be necessary. Scientists claim the gene that causes Huntingdon’s disease has been identified.

Alternatives. Of Therapeutic Value. Betony, Black Cohosh, Chamomile (German), Cramp bark, Helonias, Ladyslipper, Motherwort, Oats, Passion flower, Sarsaparilla, Skullcap, Valerian, Feverfew. Tablets/capsules. Motherwort, Passion flower, Skullcap, Valerian.

Formula. Combine: equal parts, Black Cohosh, Mistletoe, Helonias. Dose: Powders: 500mg (two 00 capsules or one-third teaspoon). Liquid extract: 1 teaspoon. Tinctures: 2 teaspoons. Thrice daily in water or honey.

Traditional, UK. Combine equal parts, Skullcap, Valerian, Mistletoe. 1oz (30g) to 1 pint (500ml) water; bring to boil; remove vessel when boiling point is reached. Dose: half-1 cup thrice daily.

Diet. Lacto-vegetarian. Yoghurt. Low salt. Oatmeal porridge, Muesli, regular raw food days. Supplements. Vitamin B-complex, Vitamin B6, Kelp, Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc.

Note: It would appear the Ginkgo would be an object of scientific study for the complaint. Treatment by or in liaison with general medical practitioner only. ... huntingdon’s chorea

(HLA) A type of protein belonging to the group known as histocompatibility antigens, which play a role in the immune system.... human leukocyte antigen

The humerus is most commonly fractured at its neck (the upper end of the shaft, below the head), particularly in elderly people. Fractures of the shaft occur in adults of all ages. Fractures of the lower humerus occur most commonly in children.An X-ray can show a fracture of the humerus. A fracture of the bone’s neck usually requires only a sling to immobilize the bone; a fracture of the shaft or lower bone normally needs a plaster cast. Most fractures of the humerus heal in 6–8 weeks.... ’s humerus, fracture of

Liquid or jelly-like substances in the body.

The term humours usually refers to the aqueous humour and vitreous humour that occur in the eye.... humours

See kyphosis.... hunchback

excessive subcutaneous adipose tissue forming a hump on the back over the lower cervical (neck) and upper thoracic regions of the spine. It is seen classically in *Cushing’s syndrome but also in patients who are obese. Compare dowager’s hump.... buffalo hump

(HHS) the major US government agency providing health care. The department was created in 1953 and assumed its current name in 1980. HHS administers more than 300 health and health-related programmes and services, including *Medicare and *Medicaid. Other activities include research, immunization services, and providing financial assistance for low-income families. Almost a quarter of federal spending occurs through HHS.... department of health and human services

curvature of the spine in the cervical (neck) and upper thoracic region (kyphosis), caused by compression fractures from osteoporosis. These fractures may be asymptomatic but when symptomatic cause significant pain. Long-term lung function may be compromised by the abnormal curvature of the spine. Compare buffalo hump.... dowager’s hump

a nondepartmental public body set up in 2007 to promote human rights and equality in regard to age, disability, gender, race, religion and belief, pregnancy and maternity, marriage and civil partnership, sexual orientation, and human rights. It replaced the Commission for Racial Equality, the Disability Rights Commission, and the Equal Opportunities Commission.... equality and human rights commission

a condition in which infection due to *pelvic inflammatory disease spreads to the right upper quadrant of the *abdomen. Adhesions form between the liver and the anterior abdominal wall causing *perihepatitis, with pain and liver function abnormalities. [T. Fitz-Hugh and A. H. Curtis (20th century), US physicians]... fitz-hugh–curtis syndrome

a linear horizontal yellowish line seen in the deep epithelium of ageing corneas. [A. C. Hudson (1875–1962), British ophthalmologist; J. Stähli (20th century), Swiss ophthalmologist]... hudson–stähli line

see antiphospholipid antibody syndrome. [G. Hughes (21st century), British physician]... hughes syndrome

see human placental lactogen.... human chorionic somatomammotrophin

Acts of the UK parliament in 1990 and 2008, establishing and amending principles for the legal supervision, by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority, of the creation, use, and storage of human embryos outside the body and of their use in treatment and research. The 2008 amendments included a ban on sex selection for social reasons, recognition of same-sex couples as potential legal parents, and regulations related to developing areas of research using embryos. The 1990 Act had also reduced the legal time limit for most abortions from 28 weeks gestation (as in the 1967 Abortion Act) to 24 weeks. Interpretation and regulation of principles and practice in this rapidly developing area of research and practice continue and are often controversial.... human fertilisation and embryology acts

see HIV.... human immunodeficiency virus

n. 1. the state or quality of being human. In most ethical traditions, membership of the human species is seen as conferring a unique moral status, so that human life is considered inherently and particularly valuable and worthy of protection (see sanctity of life). Humanity may be defined in terms of a unique capacity to feel, reason, evoke emotional responses, or form relationships (see personhood). 2. compassion or benevolence.... humanity

see HLA system.... human leucocyte antigen system

commercially available preparations of *follicle-stimulating hormone and *luteinizing hormone. They are used mainly to treat infertility in women with gonadotrophin deficiency due to hypopituitarism and to stimulate superovulation in women undergoing in vitro fertilization.... human menopausal gonadotrophins

(human chorionic somatomammotrophin) a protein hormone of 190 amino acids produced by the placenta during most but not all pregnancies. Despite its name it does not appear to have a role in lactation and its exact function remains obscure. It does, however, seem to contribute to the development of diabetes in some pregnancies.... human placental lactogen

a legal framework adopted by the United Nations following World War II that sought to define and promote fundamental entitlements, conditions, and freedoms to be afforded to all human beings. In the UK the Human Rights Act 1998 enacts the provisions of the 1950 European Convention on Human Rights, which sets out, via fourteen articles, an individual’s rights, entitlements, and freedoms.... human rights

a massive international research project to isolate all the genes in human DNA and determine the sequence of genes on human chromosomes. The project began in 1988 and the full draft sequence was published in 2001; the high-quality sequence was completed in 2003. The human genome comprises some 3 × 109 nucleotide base pairs (see DNA) forming 22,000–25,000 genes, distributed among 23 pairs of chromosomes. Knowledge of the entire human genome has already resulted in the identification of the genes associated with many hereditary disorders and revealed the existence of a genetic basis or component for many other diseases not previously known to have one. Theoretically, this would enable the development of targeted drugs and the large-scale genetic screening of populations. See pharmacogenomics; targeted agent.... human genome project

the UK government agency, established by the Human Tissue Act 2004, that regulates the removal, use, and storage of human organs and tissue from both the living and the deceased for certain purposes as defined by the statute. These purposes include clinical research, clinical audit, and medical education. Anyone handling such material for those purposes should have a licence issued by the authority. Membership of the authority comprises clinical, scientific, academic, and lay representatives.... human tissue authority

1. n. a substance that is used for moistening. 2. adj. causing moistening.... humectant

adj. circulating in the bloodstream; humoral *immunity requires circulating antibodies.... humoral

see kyphos.... hunchback deformity

see interstitial cystitis. [G. L. Hunner (1868–1957), US urologist]... hunner’s ulcer

a hereditary disorder caused by deficiency of an enzyme that results in the accumulation of protein–carbohydrate complexes and fats in the cells of the body (see mucopolysaccharidosis). This leads to learning disability, enlargement of the liver and spleen, and prominent coarse facial features (gargoylism). The disease is *sex-linked, being restricted to males, although females can be *carriers. Medical name: mucopolysaccharidosis type II. [C. H. Hunter (1872–1955), US physician]... hunter’s syndrome

narrowed and notched permanent incisor teeth: a sign of congenital *syphilis. [J. Hutchinson (1828–1913), British surgeon]... hutchinson’s teeth

a bulking agent (see laxative) used to treat constipation, *diverticular disease, *irritable bowel syndrome, and other conditions of disturbed bowel habit.... ispaghula husk

a form of *herpes zoster affecting the facial nerve, associated with facial paralysis and loss of taste. It also produces pain in the ear and other parts supplied by the nerve. [J. R. Hunt (1872–1937), US neurologist]... ramsay hunt syndrome