Secrete

A History of Gastric Secretion and Digestion

For centuries men speculated about the process of gastric digestion, but Iate in the eighteenth and early in the nineteenth centuries physiologists, both physicians and laymen, began to accumulate experimental evidence about its nature. At the same time, others discovered that the stomach is capable of secreting a strong mineral acid, and the questions of how that secretion is produced and how it is controlled became enduring problems. A Iittle later, the discovery that an acid extract of dead gastric mucosa is capable of digesting meat put the study of gastric secretion and digestion on a firm mechanistic foundation. From that time to the present, physi ologists have assiduously investigated gastric secretion and digestion, with the result that knowledge ofthose topics is as comprehensive and penetrating as isthat about other physiological processes. In addition, that knowledge is the basis of discrimi nating and effective clinical practice. I have described the experimental study of gastric secretion and digestion for two reasons. The firstisthat the successes and some ofthe failures ofphysiologists over two centuries are important parts of intellectual history that deserve to be recorded. The second is that some of those who use the accumulated knowledge every day are curious about its genesis. I assume that my readers have the technical knowledge to understand what I have written. If my account does not fully satisfy their curiosity, I have provided references that will open the path to further study.

The Works of John Knox

Pediatric Practice: Endocrinology, 2nd Edition

The go-to guide for managing endocrine problems in children – completely updated for today’s practice Part of the Pediatric Practice series, Pediatric Practice: Endocrinology is an outstanding clinical analysis and decision-making tool for those treating endocrine problems in children. Featuring an innovative problem-oriented approach, this well-illustrated, full-color guide skillfully integrates pathophysiology with clinical management. Numerous figures illustrate the principles of normal and abnormal physiology and treatment rationale and effects. Since an understanding of the clinical manifestations and treatments of endocrine disorders begins with knowledge of concepts of hormone action and principles of feedback control, the first chapter, "General Concepts and Physiology," links genetics, cell biology, and physiology with pathophysiology to provide a clear and approachable overview of endocrine systems. Subsequent chapters discuss disorders of growth, puberty, thyroid and adrenal glands, sex development, calcium and bone metabolism, water homeostasis, and carbohydrate metabolism and its comorbidities. In this second edition, contributing authors have updated all chapters. Important additions include sections on genetics for the endocrinologist in the general concepts chapter, an overview of the physiology and treatment of metabolic syndrome and dyslipidemia in the obesity chapter, and the addition of a new chapter on enteric hormones. Features of the Pediatric Practice Series The Pediatric Practice series simplifies the care of pediatric patients by delivering: Tips that tell you what you must know--and what you must do--at every stage of care Diagnostic and treatment algorithms Signs/Symptoms and Differential Diagnosis boxes When to Refer boxes, which examine all the relevant clinical considerations Diagnostic Tests--with a realistic emphasis on the right tests to order Medical Treatment coverage that includes drugs, dosages, and administration in an easy-to-read tabular format Convenient icons and a consistent chapter design Numerous clinical color photos and didactic diagrams