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This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1838. Excerpt:... carbonic acid contained in the blood. It is easy to point out one. We know, from the researches of Jurine, Chevreul, Magendie, and others, that this gas exists in almost the whole extent of the alimentary canal. We cannot, but admit, that it is formed in the process of digestion. It is in contact with almost the whole mucous surface of the alimentary canal, and a part must be absorbed. If any doubt of this were entertained, cases might be cited in which water impregnated with carbonic acid, and drunk in sufficient quantity, has produced symptoms of asphyxia. Doctor Desportes has communicated observations on this subject to the Royal Academy of Medicine. With respect to the oxygen which is to contribute to the formation of the carbonic acid contained in the mass of the blood, one of two things must happen. It enters into combination either suddenly or slowly. In the latter case there will be oxygen in excess, circulating in the mass of the blood. This pure oxygen will therefore be subject to exhalation, which will take place in the organs adapted for giving passage to it, as happens in fishes, in the air bladders of which animals oxygen is found. I propose following up this subject, and examining different kinds of blood, in conjunction with M. Dumas. CHAPTER XVII. APPLICATIONS. As examples of the applications resulting from the general conclusions which we have established, let us first take some facts regarding the power of producing heat. It has been shown, that this power may vary considerably in the same individual, in health; much more must we expect, that it will do so in a state of disease. Let us deduce from the facts formerly laid down, what may happen in those cases in which the power of producing heat is reduced below the type of health. I. The...