Introduction In this chapter, the endocrine system is introduced by describing mechanisms of hormone action and the types of hormones. Six groups of hormones and/or endocrine systems will then be…

Introduction Research is an organised, systematic and rigorous process of enquiry to develop concepts and theories and describe phenomena. It aims to add to a scientific body of knowledge. A…

Chapter 1: Structure and Function of the Genome Questions 1. How many pairs of autosome chromosomes does each adult possess? A. 11 B. 22 C. 23 D. 44 E. 46…

Introduction Many doctors often equate statistics with the numbers and equations seen in research papers, but the term ‘statistics’ does not mean ‘numbers’; indeed, a competent statistical analysis of a…

Biophysical Definitions Molecular Weight One mole of an element or compound is the atomic weight or molecular weight, respectively, in grams. For example, 1 mol of sodium is 23 g…

Introduction The application of the theories, principles and methods of physics to medicine and healthcare, in general, belongs to a branch of medicine called ‘medical physics’. This chapter focuses on…

Introduction This chapter will address general anatomical principles as well as cover detailed anatomy relevant to the obstetrician and gynaecologist and the Membership of Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists…

Structure and Function of the Normal Cell All cells possess certain basic structural features, regardless of their location, type and function ( Fig. 9.1 ). The major division is into…

Introduction A drug is broadly defined as any chemical agent that affects living protoplasm. About one-third of women in the UK take drugs at least once during pregnancy, but only…

Introduction The immune system exists to protect the organism from the consequences of infectious disease and, to a lesser extent, neoplasia. It does this by having a complex system of…