The inspiration for this basic science series occurred at an educational retreat led by Dr. L. Maximilian Buja, who at the time was the dean of the medical school. It has been such a joy to work together with Dr. David Loose, who is an accomplished scientist and teacher. It has been rewarding to collaborate with Dr. Anush Pillai, a scholar and an excellent teacher. It has been a pleasure to work with our new author Dr. Shelley Tischkau, who is both a content expert and an excellent educator. I would like to thank McGraw-Hill for believing in the concept of teaching by clinical cases. I owe a great debt to Catherine Johnson, who has been a fantastically encouraging and enthusiastic editor.

At the University of Texas Medical School at Houston, we would like to recognize the bright and enthusiastic medical students who have inspired us to find better ways to teach. At The Methodist Hospital, I appreciate the support from Drs. Mark Boom, Judy Paukert, and Alan Kaplan. At St. Joseph Medical Center, I would like to recognize some of the finest administrators I have encountered: Pat Mathews, John Bertini, MD, and Thomas V. Taylor, MD. I appreciate Linda Bergstrom's excellent advice and assistance. Without the help from my colleagues and friends, Drs. Konrad Harms, Priti Schachel, Gizelle Brooks-Carter, and John C. McBride, this book could not have been written. Most importantly, I am humbled by the love, affection, and encouragement from my lovely wife, Terri, and our four children, Andy, Michael, Allison, and Christina.