The pioneering use of systems analysis to study cardiac output regulation.

Editorial. Examines the historical significance of the study "Effect of mean circulatory filling pressure and other peripheral circulatory factors on cardiac output," by A.C. Gluton et al and published in a 1955 issue of the "American Journal of Physiology". Emphasis on venous return as a determinant of cardiac output; Systematic analysis of the various factors that nfluence venous return; Effect of increased mean circulatory filling pressure on the venous return.