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Glossary of Physiology Terms
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There are 6 glossary search results for:   Adult




Definition:
An early sexual maturation stage, occurring 1 or 2 years before the onset of puberty, during which the zona reticularis of the adrenal cortex releases increased levels of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and androstenedione. These adrenal androgens are ultimately responsible for the appearance of pubic and axillary hair, increased oil production by facial skin, acne, and distinct adult body odor.

Related glossary terms/phrases:
Menarche
Pubarche
Thelarche



Abbreviation:
CO

Definition:
Cardiac output is defined as the volume of blood pumped every minute by each (left or right) ventricle of the heart. It is generally reported in L/min or mL/min.

Cardiac output (CO) is the product of heart rate (HR) and stroke volume (SV). Thus,

CO = HR × SV

Heart rate is defined as the number of heart contractions per minute. Stroke volume is the volume of blood pumped per ventricular contraction.

For a typical resting adult human being at rest, CO is approximately 5 L/min.

CO = 70 contractions/min × 70 mL/contraction = 4,900 mL/min



Definition:
The first region (i.e., most proximal region) of the small intestine. Chyme leaving the stomach (through the pyloric valve) first enters the duodenum. The contents of the duodenum empty into the jejunum (middle region of the small intestine). In adult humans, the duodenum is about 25-38 cm (10-15 inches) long.

Related glossary terms/phrases:
Jejunum
Ileum



Definition:
The last region (i.e., most distal region) of the small intestine. Ileum receives the contents of the jejunum and, in turn, the contents of ileum leave the small intestine by emptying into the cecum. In adult humans, the ileum is about 2-4 meters (about 6.5-13 feet) long.

Related glossary terms/phrases:
Duodenum
Jejunum



Definition:
The middle region of the small intestine between the duodenum and the ileum. The jejunum receives the contents of the duodenum and, in turn, its contents empty into the ileum. In adult humans, the jejunum is about 2.5 meters (about 8 feet) long.

Related glossary terms/phrases:
Duodenum
Ileum



Definition:
A condition associated with hypothyroidism (especially primary hypothyroidism) in adults. It is characterized by thick, course skin, skin swelling (edema), and decreased metabolic rate and mental activity.









Posted: Sunday, March 31, 2013
Last updated: Friday, August 28, 2015