Physiology by Numbers: An Encouragement to Quantitative Thinking
Cambridge University Press
Edition: 2, 4/20/2000
EAN 9780521777032, ISBN10: 0521777038
Paperback, 254 pages, 22.9 x 15.2 x 1.5 cm
Language: English
Thinking quantitatively about physiology is something many students find difficult. However, it is fundamentally important to a proper understanding of many of the concepts involved. In this enlarged second edition of his popular textbook, Richard Burton gives the reader the opportunity to develop a feel for values such as ion concentrations, lung and fluid volumes, blood pressures etc. through the use of calculations which require little more than simple arithmetic for their solution. Much guidance is given on how to avoid errors and the usefulness of approximation and 'back-of-envelope sums'. Energy metabolism, nerve and muscle, blood and the cardiovascular system, respiration, renal function, body fluids and acid-base balance are all covered, making this book essential reading for students (and teachers) of physiology everywhere, both those who shy away from numbers and those who revel in them.
Preface to the second edition
Preface to the first edition
how to use this book
1. Introduction to physiological calculation
approximation and units
2. Quantifying the body
interrelationships amongst 'representative' or 'textbook' quantities
3. Energy and metabolism
4. The cardiovascular system
5. Respiration
6. Renal function
7. Body fluids
8. Acid-base balance
9. Nerve and muscle
References
Notes and answers
Index.