(Physiol) The sensitive elements in the skin and body organs that produce feelings of warmth and cold. See also: Homeostasis; Sense Organs. Note: Within Limits, The Body Adapts To Warmth and Cold. A Hand Plunged Into Cold Water Feels Colder At First Than Later. Eventually The Feeling of Cold May Disappear Entirely. Thermal Pain and Skin Injury Occur At About 52ºC (126ºF)