Northrop, R: Endogenous and Exogenous Regulation and Control

This book stresses an analytic and quantitative approach in describing the basic components of physiological regulators and control systems (PRCs). The author presents a grounding in the classical means of designing linear and nonlinear systems. There is also cutting-edge material on the potential of PRCs to treat immune system ailments, most notably AIDS and cancer. The focus is on certain "wet" physiological regulators, such as those using endocrine hormones as parametric control substances. The inherent nonlinearity of PRCs is stressed. The author also addresses the problems associated with linear systems that have transport lags. The book describes instances in which exogenous control has been effective, such as the regulation of plasma glucose, mean arterial pressure, and pain. Compartmental analysis is utilized to map the dynamics of drug distribution for more effective results. The author also illustrates the design of closed-loop drug input controllers. Endogenous management is considered in context of the hormonal control of sodium, potassium and calcium ions. The kidneys are key elements in this type of parametic regulation. Also examined is the regulation of plasma glucose concentration. The closed loop treatment of diabetes mellitus is used as an example. The author explores the progress in the use of nonlinear dynamic models to describe the human immune system. The book offers simulations that illustrate model validations and the putative control of cancer and HIV proliferation. Endogenous and Exogenous Regulation and Control of Physiological Systems investigates novel, untried immunotherapies, which places it on the vanguard of PRC treatment. TOC:Introduction to Physiological Regulators and Control Systems.- Physical and Chemical Factors Governing the Behavior of PRCs.- Introduction to SISO Control Systems and Systems with Delays.- Introduction to Compartmental Modeling and Pharmacokinetic Systems.- Special Types of Closed-Loop Drug Input Controllers.- Hormonal Regulation of Sodium, Potassium, and Calcium Ions.- Magnesium Ion Regulation. Control of Mean Arterial Pressure by Sodium Nitroprusside Injection.- Control of Post-Operative Pain by Self-Administered Opioids.- The Human Immune System Seen from a Biomedical Engineering Viewpoint.- Some Simulation Packages Suitable for Modeling Nonlinear Systems.