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bitter

adj. denoting the unpleasant taste evoked by most alkaloids, glycosides, vitamins, and some salts. Each bitter chemical is recognized by one or more of a family of about 60 receptor proteins; some 15% of the human taste cells possess these proteins and therefore the capacity to signal bitterness. Bitter tastes are also associated with toxic chemicals. —bitterness n.

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Psychology term of the day

January 27th 2025

terminal care

terminal care

services for people with terminal illness, now usually provided by hospices, which may be either freestanding units or associated with hospitals, nursing homes, or extended care facilities. The emphasis is on palliative care, pain control, supportive psychological services, and involvement in family and social activities, with the goal of enabling patients to live out their lives in comfort, peace, and dignity.