Base is used broadly in both literal and figurative contexts: the wide base of the pyramid; a party seeking to expand its power base. Basis is used in a nonphysical sense: Healthy scepticism is the basis of all accurate observation (Arthur Conan Doyle).
Omega-3 fats also lower blood pressure and heart rate, improve blood vessel function, and, at higher doses, lower triglycerides and may ease inflammation, which plays a role in the development of atherosclerosis. Several large trials have evaluated the effect of fish or fish oils on heart disease.
Erythropoietin (EPO), a large (193 amino acid residue) glycoprotein hormone secreted by the kidney, regulates RBC production. Normally, EPO levels vary inversely with hematocrit. Hypoxia stimulates EPO release, which, in turn, stimulates bone marrow erythrocyte production. High blood levels of RBC, hemoglobin, hematocrit, or oxygen suppress the release of EPO.