Contraction Alkalosis

Definition: An increase in pH, secondary to a loss of fluid volume.

Mechanism: Fluid loss leads to an activation of the RAAS system. And Angiotensin II activates the Na-H anti-porter in the distal tubule. So more Na+ is being absorbed while H+ is being lost. This helps retain fluid, at the expense of losing H+ ion. So as the body is trying to retain fluid, the pH rises.

Treatment: Simply to treat the underlying fluid loss. The pH should correct on its own

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Contraction_alkalosis
Another source that may be helpful: http://www.usmle-forums.com/usmle-step-1-forum/841-ii-contraction-alkalosis.html

Extra:
Apparently, this can have something to do with Hypo-chloremia. See slide 35 of bk9.wk2.AcidBaseLab

Aldosterone Mechanism

Principal Method by which Aldosterone Induces Na+ Absorption and K+ excretion

Also check out this link for minor mechanisms: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aldosterone#Function

Adrenergic Receptors & Function

EKG Leads and Heart Locations

Anterior - V2, V3, V4
Right ventricular - AVR, I
Left lateral - , I AVL, V5, V6
Inferior - AVF, II, III

Venous Return Curves

For now, I will just provide links to good reading. Note this is a confusing topic, and I still don't quite get it.

http://www.cvphysiology.com/Cardiac%20Function/CF027.htm

http://faculty.washington.edu/brengelm/COvsVR/COvsVRHeaderPg.html

http://jap.physiology.org/content/94/3/849.long