DIASTATIC
Di`a*stat"ic, a. Etym: [Gr. Diastase.] (Physiol. Chem.)

Defn: Relating to diastase; having the properties of diastase; effecting the conversion of starch into sugar. The influence of acids and alkalies on the diastatic action of saliva. Lauder Brunton.

DIASTEM Di"a*stem, n. Etym: [L. diastema, Gr. diastème.] (a) Intervening space; interval. (b) (Anc. Mus.) An interval.

DIASTEMA
Di`a*ste"ma, n. Etym: [L. See Diastem.] (Anat.)

Defn: A vacant space, or gap, esp. between teeth in a jaw.

DIASTER
Di*as"ter, n. Etym: [Gr. (Biol.)

Defn: A double star; — applied to the nucleus of a cell, when, during cell division, the loops of the nuclear network separate into two groups, preparatory to the formation of two daughter nuclei. See Karyokinesis.

DIASTOLE
Di*as"to*le, n. Etym: [L., fr. Gr.

1. (Physiol.)

Defn: The rhythmical expansion or dilatation of the heart and arteries; — correlative to systole, or contraction.