lyso-, lyo-, -lysin, -lys-, -lysis, -lytic, -lyt-, -lyz-

(Greek: lyein [LYOO ayn], "to loosen"; loosening, dissolving, dissolution)

electrolysis, galvanolysis
1. The decomposition of a substance by passage of an electric current through it; for example, hair follicles may be destroyed with this procedure or the destruction of tumors with an electric current.
2. A process in which the passage of an electric current through an electrolytic solution or other suitable medium produces a chemical reaction; such as, that which occurs in a battery.
3. The process of splitting water into its components, hydrogen, and oxygen; by means of an electrical current.
4. Any process in which the passage of an electric current through a solution or medium produces a chemical reaction.
5. The chemical decomposition of a substance by the reactions that occur to its constituent ions at electrodes when an electric current is passed through the molten substance or, more often, through a solution of the substance.
6. The production of chemical changes by passing electric current from an electrode to an electrolyte, or the reverse of such action.

It is also used to separate isotopes, as in the concentration of deuterium, or heavy water, by the electrolysis of ordinary water.

7. One application of electrolysis is the permanent removal of body hair, including the hair roots, with an electronic instrument.

Although electrolysis is promoted as a permanent process, many people find that hair does grow back, although slowly, after electrolysis.

Electrolysis may be done by a dermatologist, by an electrolysis technician, or by a facial technologist or esthetician.

electrolyte
1. A substance which, in solution, is dissociated into ions and is capable of conducting an electric current; such as, the circulating ions of plasma and other body fluids.
2. In the body, any ion in cells, blood, or other organic material.

Electrolytes help to control fluid levels in the body, maintain normal pH levels, and ensure the correct electric potential between nerve cells which enables the transmission of nerve signals.

Sodium, potassium,chloride, calcium, and phosphate are examples of electrolytes, informally known as lytes.

Electrolyte replacement is needed when a patient has prolonged vomiting or diarrhea, and as a response to strenuous athletic activity.

Commercial electrolyte solutions are available, particularly for sick children (solutions; such as, Pedialygte) and athletes (sports drinks; such as, Gatorade). Electrolyte monitoring is also important in the treatment of anorexia and bulimia

electrolyte acid, battery acid
Dilute sulfuric acid used in storage batteries.
electrolyte and acid/base balance
A nursing outcome from the Nursing Outcomes Classification, NOC, defined as a balance of electrolytes and non-electrolytes in the intracellular and extracellular compartments of the body.
electrolyte balance
The equilibrium or balance between the amounts of electrolytes in the body; such as, calcium, sodium, and potassium; all of which are essential for normal health and functioning.
electrolyte imbalance
Serum concentrations of an electrolyte which are either higher or lower than normal.
electrolyte management
The promotion of electrolyte balance and the prevention of complications resulting from abnormal or undesired serum electrolyte levels.
electrolyte monitoring
A collection and analysis of patient data to regulate electrolyte balances.
electrolyte solution
Any solution containing electrolytes prepared for oral, parenteral, or rectal administration for the replacement or supplementation of ions necessary for homeostasis.

The loss of potassium ion by vomiting, by diarrhea, or the action of certain medications, including diuretics and corticosteroids, may be corrected by administering a solution high in potassium.

electrolyte-activated battery, electrolyte activated battery
1. A reserve battery with an aqueous electrolyte kept in a separate chamber, from which a mechanism forces it into the cells of the battery for activation.
2. A reserve battery in which an aqueous electrolyte is stored in a separate chamber, and a mechanism, which may be operated from a remote location, drives the electrolyte out of the reservoir and into the cells of the battery for activation.
fuel-cycle analysis, fuel cycle analysis
An evaluation of environment impact that considers the effects of obtaining a fuel; such as, from mining coal or harvesting wood; as well as, the more commonly assessed impacts of burning the fuels for useful heat or electricity.
glycolysis
1. A breakdown of sugar in the body.
2. A breakdown of glucose or another organic compound to two pyruvate (colorless organic liquid) molecules.

It is the first stage of aerobic respiration, fermentation, and anaerobic electron transport.

Oxygen has no role in glycolysis, which occurs in the cytoplasm of all cells.

graphanalysis
The reading of character or personality from a person’s handwriting.
graphanalyst
One who specializes in character reading or analysis of peoples’ handwriting.
haematolysis