Calcium (Ca), phosphorus (as phosphate [HPO 4 2− ]), and magnesium (Mg) are essential nutrients that are indispensable for the structural integrity of the body and for the function of each of its cells. The genetic and physiological mechanisms that…
Introduction The thyroid axis is probably the best example of the physiological interactions between the mother, the fetus, and their environment. The discovery of the crucial role of maternal iodine intake for the normal development of the fetus also led…
Introduction One of the most important metabolic events to mark the transition from fetal to neonatal life is the adaptation from an environment that has a readily available and continuous source of glucose—transplacental passage of maternal blood—to an environment in…
Introduction Throughout history, humans have sought to understand the differences between biological sexes and the mechanisms responsible for these biological differences. Normal gonadal differentiation and sex development depend on the meticulous choreography and synchrony of a network of endocrine, paracrine,…
Overview Pregnancy is a complex physiological state consisting of a symbiotic relationship between two genetically distinct, but related, individuals: the mother and the fetus. The success of pregnancy requires dramatic alterations of maternal physiology to accept, protect, house, and nurture…
Introduction What makes one an effective user of the clinical laboratory? Such a user: Identifies at least one sympathetic ally in the clinical laboratory to whom one can reach out for advice about laboratory testing. None of us can be…
Introduction Hormones exert their actions by binding to specific receptor proteins, a process that induces conformational changes or compartmental redistribution of these proteins. The activated receptor is now capable of inducing positive (or negative) intracellular effects that ultimately are recognized…
Introduction The study of the endocrine system has undergone a dramatic evolution since the 1990s, from the traditional physiologic studies that dominated the field for many years to the discoveries of molecular endocrinology and endocrine genetics. At the present time,…
Historical background Endocrinology is a discipline of science that seeks to understand how chemical signals secreted by cells regulate the function of distant (endocrine) or local (paracrine) tissues, or even their own function (autocrine), to integrate vital processes of life,…
Learning objectives By the end of this chapter the reader should: Be aware of the main quality issues relating to paediatric care Understand the concepts of quality improvement Be able to describe basic improvement tools Be able to provide examples…