Glossary
R
rabies
Rabies is a disease which infects domestic and wild animals. It is a virus transmitted to other animals and humans through close contact with saliva from those infected (i.e. bites, scratches, licks on broken skin). Once symptoms of the disease develop, rabies is fatal.
radiation
Transmission of any type of energy by means of rays, waves or as mobile sub-atomic particles (electrons, neutrons and protons).
radiation therapy
A type of medical treatment that uses high energy radiation such as X-rays.
radio signals
A code or message delivered via a radio or interpreter most often in the form of sound.
radiology
The scientific study of X-rays and other high energy radiation, especially as used in medicine.
razor
Sharp-edged instruments primarily used in the shaving of bodily hair. Razors can be manually or electrically powered, and the earliest bronze razor blade dates back to the Bronze Age.
record - document
Recorded information, regardless of medium, created, received, and maintained by an agency, institution, organization, or individual in pursuance of its legal obligations or in the transaction of business.
rectal speculum
Instrument used to dilate the anus or rectum, and throwing light within, thus facilitating examination or surgical operations.
rectum
The last portion of the large intestine that communicates with the colon above and the anus below.
reflexology
A complementary practice based on the theory that reflex points in the feet are connected to the rest of the human body. Massage of these points is believed to unblock energy flows in the body that cause illness.
refractor head
Instrument providing means of positioning lenses, prisms and other optical devices in front of a subject's eyes for the purpose of determining refractive error and binocular functions
regulatory sign
Sign that is intended to regulate behavior, displaying such information as prohibitions or rules of order or conduct.
rehabilitative therapy
Therapy to improve a person's condition after illness or injury, prevent further loss of function, and maintain or improve quality of life.
relief
Use for images, especially pictorial compositions, executed in relief - a surface that has been carved, molded, or stamped so that an image or design projects from or is sunk into a continuous surface.
replica
Use for precise reproductions of valued objects, usually in the same dimensions as the original. For reproductions of an image alone, use "reproductions" or "facsimiles." Use also when more than one similar object is produced by the same artist, craftsman, or studio, with little or no variation between them; if variation is apparent, use "versions." Distinct from "forgeries" and "counterfeits," which are produced with the intent to deceive.
reproduction
Copies of art images, art objects, or other valued images or objects, made without intent to deceive; with regard to art images, includes photographic reproductions; implies more precise and faithful imitation than does the term "copies (derivative objects)." Where the intent is to deceive, see "forgeries" or "counterfeits."
respirator
A device worn over the face to prevent the breathing in of poisonous substances.
resuscitation
The act of restoring life to someone near death. This is done by such measures as artificial respiration (kiss-of-life) and cardiac massage.
resuscitator
A device or instrument used for resuscitation after asphyxia or the cessation of breathing.
retinal detachment
disorder of the eye in which the retina peels away from its underlying layer of support tissue. Initial detachment may be localized, but without rapid treatment the entire retina may detach, leading to vision loss and blindness.
retort
A vessel in which chemical substances are heated for distillation or decomposition. Usually made from glass.
rheumatic fever
A severe infectious disease most common in children. Symptoms include fever and painful inflammation of the joints. Rheumatic fever frequently results in permanent damage to the valves of the heart.
rheumatism
A disorder where aches and pains affect the muscles and joints.
rhinoplasty
Plastic surgery performed on the nose, either for reconstruction or cosmetic purposes.
rickets
A condition caused by a lack of vitamin D. Characterized by soft and deformed bones, which can lead to an increased number of injuries.
rigor mortis
Temporary stiffening of the muscles which begins within a few hours of death due to biochemical changes. The condition may last for up to four days before subsiding.
ring - jewellery
Small circular band worn on the finger; typically circlets of real or simulated precious metal, and frequently set with precious stones or imitations of these, intended for wearing upon the finger either as an ornament or as a token.
ringworm
An infection of the skin. Ringworm causes a reddish blemish with a light centre that resembles a 'ring'
Roma people
Also known as Romany. Originated in the Punjab region of northern India as a nomadic people and entered Europe between the eighth and tenth centuries CE. Roma people were persecuted under the Nazi regime as they were believed to be 'racially inferior.'
rosary
A string of beads (usually between five and fifteen) on which prayers are counted. Rosaries are usually worn and used by Catholics.
rubella
A mild but highly contagious virus infection, causing swelling of glands in the neck and a widespread pink rash. Rubella is more common during childhood.
rugine
drinking cup