Features in the Architecture of Physiological Function

Abstract

This book is a philosophical discussion of the mechanisms of the body whereby the internal conditions of existence are maintained at that nicety of adjustment necessary for man's intellectual supremacy. The experimental evidence for the supporting current biochemical and physiologic concepts are stressed constantly and the bibliography is conveniently given at the end of each chapter. There is a broad consideration of such details of the "fixité du milieu intérieur" as hydrogen ion concentration, temperature, oxygen supply and blood sugar, with the conclusion that variations in the factors are conditioned largely by the nervous system, which, in turn, proves to be the chief beneficiary of the resulting stable state. There are three chapters on storage materials, including glycogen, lipids, oxygen, iron, copper and blood. The high spot of interest in this fascinating book is the section which supports the view that "every adaptation is an integration." As an example, the