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This book delves into the various aspects of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) and its role in cardiovascular disorders. It explores the use of anti-hypertensive agents, with a focus on (ACE) angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). The chapters cover topics such as the preferred use of ACE inhibitors over ARBs in high-risk patients, the impact of these agents on insulin resistance, their role in acute heart failure and peripheral artery disease, and their immunomodulatory activity in hypertensive patients. Additionally, the book examines the role of ACE inhibitors and ARBs in COVID-19 patients and provides insights into recent trends in managing hypertension through RAAS inhibition. It serves as a valuable resource for researchers, clinicians, and healthcare professionals involved in the field of cardiovascular medicine.

The present work corresponds to a compilation of independent contributions in the fields of endocrinology, immunity, cancer, neurobiology, and myology. Revision of current advances as well as novel findings in the form of original articles are presented in a balanced fashion. The book has been divided into three sections in line with the main subject: Molecular pathology of immune, inflammatory, and hemostatic disorders; Molecular pathology of endocrine and muscular disorders; and Molecular pathology of cancer: determinants and potential therapies. In the first section, contributing authors take the reader through the molecular pathology of immune responses, inflammation, and hemostasis, by collating an update on systemic autoimmune diseases, the therapeutic potential of statins in hemostasis, the effects of adrenergic stimulation on coagulation, the emerging field of physical burnout due to the mobility restrictions in response to the 2020 SARS-CoV-2 pandemic imposed worldwide, and the success of community-oriented muscular kinesic rehabilitation. The second section presents engaging results from a survey of iodine intake through the diet of pregnant females, an appraisal of the neuroprotective effect of dexmedetomidine, novel evidence on muscle physiopathology, describing the upregulation of CCL5/RANTES during cholestatic liver disease, the fibrotic response emerging in response to cholic and deoxycholic acids, and the altering effects of bile acids in autophagy and mitogenesis. In the third section, a comprehensive revision of cancer literature is offered with an emphasis on melanoma, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, microRNA-based diagnostic approaches, and new avenues for cancer immunotherapy. Altogether, these individual contributions offer a comprehensive and up-to-date outlook of the current state in the field of molecular pathology.Chapter 14 is available open access under a CreativeCommons Attribution 4.0 International License via link.springer.com.

This is the first book to present the beneficial effects of hydrogen sulfide in the treatment of various kidney pathologies. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), a gas with a distinctive smell of rotten eggs, was known for over three centuries for its toxicity and death at high concentrations especially among agricultural and industrial workers. This is due to its ability to reversibly antagonize complex IV of the mitochondrial electron transport chain. However, studies over the past two decades have shown that H2S has risen above its historic notorious label and has received significant experimental attention as an endogenously produced gaseous signaling molecule that plays an important role in cellular homeostasis and influences a myriad of physiological and pathological processes at low concentrations. Its production is enzymatically regulated and has specific molecular targets. Several recent in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that at low micromolar concentrations, H2S exhibits important therapeutic characteristics that target multiple molecular pathways and thereby preventing the development and progression of several pathologies.This beneficial effect of H2S suggests that it may meet the demand for alternative and/or additional therapeutic agents against various renal pathologies in which reduced levels of renal and plasma H2S were observed. Interestingly, while the distribution of H2S-producing enzymes is tissue-specific, they are abundantly expressed in the glomeruli and in the brush border and cytoplasm of epithelial cells of the renal tubules and in the peritubular capillaries. This makes the kidney a rich source of endogenous H2S production. From pre-clinical and clinical perspectives, this book is topical and timely, and seeks to lay the foundation for future clinical applications of H2S in nephrology.

This book provides a concise yet comprehensive resource on Diabetic Kidney Disease. Similar to the previous edition, the book reviews the most up-to-date research on diabetic nephropathy, the current understanding of its pathophysiology, renal structural alterations and clinical features, and summarizes recent evidence-based clinical treatment modalities for the prevention and management of diabetic kidney disease. General clinical aspects are also covered, as well as an overview to the novel approaches being designed by leading researchers in the field.A convenient compendium for physicians involved in the care of diabetic patients with varying degrees of kidney involvement, Diabetes and Kidney Disease, 2e is also a handy resource for medical residents and students interested in the current status and future approaches to reducing the burden of diabetes and diabetic kidney disease.

This volume discusses renal function and the mechanisms by which the kidney regulates the composition and volume of the extracellular fluid. It also highlights the role of the kidney in the development and progression of arterial hypertension. Most textbooks of renal physiology are based in mammalians physiology and mostly human physiology of the kidney, but the authors considered that this book should also include other species to include the broad spectrum of students and researchers in the life and biomedical sciences. In this sense, we included chapters such as comparative osmoregulation in non-mammalian vertebrates and we emphasize that in vertebrates like fish, reptiles, amphibians and birds, the kidneys and extrarenal organs are vital to maintain fluid homeostasis. The purpose of the book is to provide a concise frame of knowledge in a clear and direct language, of the renal function to medical and biological sciences students. In the context of normal renal function, we providepathophysiological basis for chronic renal diseases and hypertension with the participation of renal vasoactive hormones. This book is used as textbook in several physiology courses for medical, nursing and biological sciences students at the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile, Finis Terrae University, Universidad San Sebastian as well as other universities.

This book provides comprehensive, cutting-edge scientific data on acute and chronic tubulointerstitial nephritis, an area that has not been fully addressed in many nephrology textbooks. This book covers all relevant aspects of the disease, from historical aspects and pathogenesis to diagnosis, pathological findings, treatment, and prognosis and outcomes. The chapters also discuss both immune and non-immune mediated forms of the disease, as well as entities causing tubulointerstitial disease such as medications and toxins, infectious agents, autoimmune diseases, transplant rejection, genetic diseases, infiltrative disease and chronic kidney disease of unknown etiology. The text features up-to-date educational materials that will benefit both basic and clinical scientists. Written by experts in the field, Tubulointerstitial Nephritis is a valuable resource for clinicians, practitioners, researchers and trainees working in the field of nephrology and internalmedicine.

This reference volume conveys complete understanding and management of Androgenetic Alopecia and Female Pattern Hair Loss (AGA/FPHL). These are probably the most common adult (18-50 yrs.) health disorders besides dental caries, accounting for over 98% of hair loss cases in males and over 70% cases in females. The present volume, the first of three related volumes, is structured in 4 sections: 22 dedicated chapters, ranging from basic science (Biology, Anatomy, Physiology, Embryology), the etiology of adult, childhood & adolescent AGA/FPHL, diagnostic steps and evaluation, to related disorders and comorbidities. For the first time in the scientific literature, all pathogenic contributors of AGA/FPHL, including micro-inflammation, scalp vascularization, biochemical stress, aging, solar radiation, and the sebaceous gland, are examined in comprehensive, dedicated chapters. The effects of every hormone on AGA/FPHL, as well as the psychological impact of the condition, are explored in depth. An extensive chapter on childhood and adolescent AGA/FPHL, a more common than previously thought condition, is another unique feature. Finally, two extremely detailed sections are included on the pathogenic links of AGA/FPHL to life-threatening comorbidities: cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, hypertension, insulin resistance, and prostatic disorders, with suggested guidelines on how to save lives of balding patients by adopting early screening strategies. In providing a fully updated, thorough guide to this popular topic, this richly illustrated volume (over 200 figures, tables, and algorithms) offers the latest, evidence-based information on every aspect of AGA/FPHL causing hair loss to countless patients. Each subject is addressed according to learning and clinical needs, and the presented information is supported by a wealth of peer-reviewed papers. Every aspect of this condition is considered, including biology, diagnosis, etiology, from drug treatment, the influence of nutrition, lifestyle and food supplements, to related disorders, surgical hair restoration, hair care, and future treatment options. This handbook will be an invaluable conveying best management standards to readers, whether experienced practitioners, clinicians, dermatologists, surgeons or researchers interested in hair restoration.

This book reflects the state of the art of our understanding of the WNT signaling system, which comprises a network of signaling pathways initiated by the secreted WNT lipoglycoproteins, which are crucial for embryonal development, stem cell regulation, tissue homeostasis and repair. Dysfunction of this evolutionarily conserved signaling system leads to many diseases including developmental disorders, diverse forms of cancer, fibrosis, neurodegenerative disease and many more. The WNT signaling system is built upon 19 mammalian, secreted WNT lipoglycoproteins that interact with a plethora of distinct receptors, such as the G protein-coupled receptors called Frizzleds (FZD1-10), LDL receptor-like proteins (LRP5/6), receptor tyrosine kinases (ROR1, 2, RYK and PTK7). In addition, WNT pathways are tightly regulated by many secreted and cell-intrinsic negative regulators, such as soluble FZD-related proteins (SFRPs), Dickkopfs (DKKs), WNT-inhibitory proteins, TIKI, RNF43 and more. Understanding the basic mechanism in terms of receptor-ligand interaction, receptor selectivity, signal initiation and desensitization remain poorly understood, even though substantial advances have been made the recent years. Due to the involvement of the WNT signaling system in human disease, it appears obvious to target diverse branches pharmacologically and therapeutically. However, given the complexity of the system and its importance for stem cell regulation and tissue maintenance, therapy comes with obvious risks for severe side effects. The field is addressing the challenge to identify suitable targets and selective compounds for therapy allowing disease-selective therapeutic effects and balancing unwanted side effects. This book summarizes the current understanding of the basic and applied pharmacology in the WNT signaling system and bridges disciplines such as pharmacology, physiology, neurosciences, oncology and drug development.

This book discusses unique ion channels and transporters that are located within epithelial tissues of various organs including the kidney, intestine, pancreas and respiratory tract. The authors will show, that each of these channels and transporters play crucial roles in transepithelial ion and fluid transport across epithelia and their responsibility in maintaining homeostasis. The reader gains an understanding of the fundamentals of epithelial ion transport, in terms of function, modelling, regulation, trafficking, structure and pharmacology. This is the third of three volumes highlighting the importance of epithelial ion channels and transporters in basic physiology and pathophysiology of human diseases. The focus of this volume lies with different ion channel and transporter families. Additionally, this volume benefits from pharmaceutical contributors and their insights into recent pre-clinical drug discovery efforts and results from clinical trials. Overall, these chapters offer a more thorough coverage of individual epithelial ion channels and transporters from the 1st Edition, along with eleven new chapters. That makes Volume 3 an insightful contribution for physiology students, scientists and clinicians.

Signal transduction comprises the intracellular biochemical signals which induce the appropriate cell response to an external stimulus. The players in signal transduction are diverse, from small molecules as first messengers, to proteins, receptors, transcription factors, among many others. The different signaling pathways and the crosstalk between them originates the unique signaling profile of every cell type in the human body. The cell signaling specificity depends on several aspects including protein composition, subcellular localization and complexes and gene promoters.This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the specific signaling pathways on a variety of human tissues. This information can be of great value for health science researchers, professionals and students to understand key pathways for tissue-specific functions in the plethora of signals, signals receptors, transducers and effectors.Chapter 3 and 15 are available open accessunder a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License via link.springer.com.

This is the first book addressing in full the most important aspects of the angiotensin-(1-7), the key peptide of the protective axis and the main component in the new modulatory concept of the renin-angiotensin system. It features a detailed review of angiotensin-(1-7) and its receptor Mas, comprising the historical background, enzymatic pathways for generation, functions, integrative aspects of its protective profile, and its therapeutic potential. It also encompasses a comprehensive presentation of current knowledge about its widespread biological actions on several tissues, as well as the most recent scientific achievements, emerging from preclinical and clinical trials. Dr. Santos is a renowned researcher on the Renin-Angiontensin system, with remarkable achievements regarding the role of peptides such as alamandine and angiontensin-(1-7). He has also worked on the potential clinical applicability of angiotensin-(1-7)-related drugs for cardiovascular diseases. He has an extensive publication record in the field, including the publication of the book The Protective Arm of the Renin Angiotensin System (Academic Press, 2015).Angiotensin-(1-7) will make a unique contribution to the literature and will be an important resource for biomedical students and researchers, medical practitioners and any other professional interested in this peptide and its role in the renin-angiotensin system.

This book systemically presents the latest research on renal fibrosis, covering all the major topics in the field, including the possible mechanisms, biomarkers, and strategies for prevention and treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Due to its high prevalence, CKD represents a huge global economic and social burden. Irrespective of the initial causes, CKD progresses to end stage kidney disease (ESKD) due to renal fibrosis, which is characterized by glomerulosclerosis, tubule atrophy and atresia, and the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) in the kidney. Unfortunately, an estimated 1%-2% of the adult population living with CKD will need renal replacement therapy at some point as a result of ESKD. As such, strategies for preventing or slowing CKD progression to ESKD are of utmost importance, and studies aiming to understand the mechanisms of renal fibrosis have been the focus of intensive research. Recently, novel insights into the pathophysiological processes have furthered our understanding of the pathogenesis of renal fibrosis, and more importantly, promoted studies on the early diagnosis and treatment of CKD. This book draws lessons from the extensive, state-of-the-art research in this field, elaborating the new theories and new techniques to offer readers a detailed and comprehensive understanding of renal fibrosis and as well as inspiration for future research directions.

This book focuses on the contribution of cell dedifferentiation to the regenerative process in all body systems, as well as its underlying molecular mechanisms and applications.The book is divided into four parts, the first of which addresses the history of cell dedifferentiation and regenerative medicine. In turn, Part II compares three routes by which cells change their phenotype: dedifferentiation, transdifferentiation, and reprogramming. Part III includes an extensive review of cell dedifferentiation events in all nine body systems for lower organisms and mammalians, respectively. The final part reviews the relationship between cell dedifferentiation and the development of cancer and several other diseases, while also outlining the prospects of and future research directions in cell dedifferentiation and regenerative medicine. The main purpose of the book is to underline the importance of cell dedifferentiation in stem cell and regenerative medicine by providing a systematical review of dedifferentiation in all body systems, together with the latest reliable evidence.

Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD) is a highly prevalent hereditary renal disorder in which fluid-filled cysts are appeared in both kidneys. Main causative genes of ADPKD are PKD1 and PKD2, encoding for polycystin-1 (PC1) and polycystin-2 (PC2) respectively. Those proteins are localized on primary cilia and function as mechanosensor in response to the fluid flow, translating mechanistic stimuli into calcium signaling. With mutations either of PKD1 or PKD2, hyper-activated renal tubular epithelial cell proliferation is observed, followed by disrupted calcium homeostasis and aberrant intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) accumulation. Increased cell proliferation with fluid secretion leads to the development of thousands of epithelial-lined, fluid-filled cysts in kidneys. It is also accompanied by interstitial inflammation, fibrosis, and finally reaching end-stage renal disease (ESRD). In human ADPKD, the age at which renal failure typically occurs is later in life, however no specific targeted medications are available to cure ADPKD. Recently, potential therapeutic targets or surrogate diagnostic biomarkers for ADPKD are proposed with the advances in the understanding of ADPKD pathogenesis, and some of them were attempted for clinical trials. Herein, we will summarize genetic and epi-genetic molecular mechanisms in ADPKD progression, and overview the currently available biomarkers or potential therapeutic reagents suggested.

This book presents cutting edge methods that provide insights into the pathways by which salt and water traverse cell membranes and flow in an orchestrated fashion amongst the many compartments of the body. It focuses on a number of molecular, cellular and whole animal studies that involve multiple physiological systems and shows how the internal milieu is regulated by multifactorial gene regulation, molecular signaling, and cell and organ architecture.Topics covered include: water channels, the urinary concentrating mechanism, angiotensin, the endothelin system, miRNAs and MicroRNA in osmoregulation, desert-adapted mammals, the giraffe kidney, mosquito Malpighian tubules, and circadian rhythms. The book highlights how different approaches to explaining the same physiological processes greatly increase our understanding of these fundamental processes. Greater integration of comparative, evolutionary and genetic animal models in basic science and medical science will improve our overall grasp of the mechanisms of sodium and water balance.

This book provides an overview of the current state-of-art in combining advances in biomedical imaging with intraoperative navigation and preoperative planning for urologic surgery. These advances hold great promise in improving diagnostic and therapeutic urologic interventions to improve patient outcomes. Leading experts in this exciting emerging field covers early clinical and pre-clinical applications of optical, ultrasound, cross-sectional and computer-assisted imaging in urologic surgery.Advances in Image-Guided Urologic Surgery provides a unique and valuable resource for audience with clinical and research interest in minimally invasive surgery, endourology, urologic oncology, imaging and biomedical engineering.

This volume presents key topics of current interest with regard to several pathophysiological conditions including (a) the basic and clinical aspects of bradykinin receptor antagonists, (b) the kallikrein-kinin pathways in hypertension and diabetes, (c) tissue kallikrein-kinin therapy for hypertension and organ damage, (d) the renal (tissue) kallikrein-kinin system in the kidney and novel potential drugs for salt-sensitive hypertension, (e) the kallikrein-kinin system in diabetes retinopathy, and (f) genetic manipulation and genetic variation of the kallikrein-kinin system and their impacts on cardiovascular and renal disease. Written by internationally reputed scientists, the book provides an essential overview of the latest developments in the field of kinin research, making it a valuable asset for endocrinologists, nephrologists, cardiologists, pharmacologists, physiologists, ophthalmologists and rheumatologists. Furthermore, it is also intended for postgraduate students in the fields of medicine, pharmacy, physiology and pharmacology, and those working at research organizations.

This book provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of all key issues related to kidney and urinary tract disease in full-term and premature newborns. Among the many topics addressed are fluid and electrolyte abnormalities, hydronephrosis, urinary tract infection, obstructive uropathy and renal replacement therapy. The approach throughout is clinically oriented, the aim being to provide the reader with hands-on guidance. Each chapter commences with a clinical case vignette and concludes with a take-home message highlighting key aspects of practical importance. In addition, however, informative reviews of the literature and the basic sciences are included. No other book currently on the market focuses solely on the newborn, and Kidney and Urinary Tract Diseases in the Newborn will be especially valuable to those undergoing fellowship training in neonatology or pediatric nephrology/urology.

medical research covered in thisvolume: epidemiology, physiologyand pathophysio­ logy, laboratory methodology, and renal pathology. New studies deal with the diagnosis and treatment of both incipient and overt nephropathy by metabolie, antihypertensive, and dietary invention. Considerable progress has been made in the management of end-stage renal failure and also in the management and treatment of nephropathy in the pregnant diabetic woman. Diabetic nephropathy is a worldwide problem, but it is more clearly defined in Europe and North America where facilities for the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes and its complications are readily available. Much more work needs to be done in other parts of the world, as it appears from this book. It is hoped that we now have a handbook for the kidney and hypertension in diabetes and that further progress can be made in clinical work in diagnosing and treating diabetic patients. Much more work still needs to be done regarding patient education with respect to complications. Many diabetics have now been trained to take part in the management of their metabolie control; they should also be trained to take part in the follow-up and treatment of complications. This volume also underlines the considerable need for future research. So far, research in this field has been carried out in relatively few countries and centers in the world. The editor is sure that this volume will also stimulate further advan­ cement in clinical science within the field of diabetic renal disease.

Several compounds are associated with experimentally induced neoplasms in the urinary systems, and especially the kidneys, of laboratory animals. Many of these neoplasms are succintly described and illustrated in detail in this volume, and some are compared with spontaneously occurring lesions. Pragmatic aspects of disease which are of particular interest to pathologists are emphasized, such as classification and differential diagnosis of neoplasms that occur in the urinary system; comparison and significance of toxic effects of substances in animals and humans; and similarities and differences in disease manifestations between animals and humans.

Core Concepts in Parenchymal Kidney Disease provides comprehensive and state-of-the-art information on the diagnosis, treatment, classification and pathogenesis of glomerular and tubulointerstitial diseases. Chapters feature various clinical scenarios and are authored by a team of renowned experts in the field. Experienced clinicians and trainees alike will find this authoritative reference to be a valuable resource and contribution to the literature.

Seit Jahren wird in der Literatur eine Beteiligung der Prostaglandine an der Blutdruckregulation diskutiert. Dabei kommt dem vaskulären Prostacyclin eine besondere Bedeutung zu. Das vorliegende Buch beschreibt die physiologischen Funktionen des Prostacyclins sowie seine Beziehungen zu anderen vasoaktiven Hormonsystemen. Ein besonderes Augenmerk wird auf die mögliche Beteiligung des Prostacyclins an der Blutdruckregulation gerichtet. Seine Bedeutung für die Pathogenese der arteriellen Hypertonie wird diskutiert.

Seit Jahren wird in der Literatur immer wieder eine Beteiligung der Prostaglandine an der Blutdruckregulation diskutiert. Von den Prostaglandinen kommt dem vaskulären Prostacyclin bei der Regulation des Gefäßtonus und so auch des Blutdrucks unter Umständen eine besondere Bedeutung zu. Das vorliegende Buch beschäftigt sich mit der Beziehung des Prostacyclins zur Blutdruckregulation und zur arteriellen Hypertonie. Als Grundlage werden der Stoffwechsel des Prostacyclins sowie seine physiologischen Funktionen abgehandelt. Die Beziehungen zu anderen vasoaktiven Hormonsystemen werden aufgezeichnet. Eine mögliche Bedeutung des Prostacyclins für die Pathogenese der arteriellen Hypertonie wird diskutiert.

We have witnessed a rapid development within the field of the kidney and hypertension in diabetes mellitus. A significant amount of work within the traditional areas has been published, and several new dimensions are now being developed, mostly in the experimental setting. These dimensions are discussed in several chapters of this new edition, The Kidney and Hypertension in Diabetes Mellitus, Fourth Edition. This volume endeavors to cover all aspects of renal involvement in diabetes. It is written by colleagues who are themselves active in the many fields of medical research covered in this volume: epidemiology, physiology and pathophysiology, laboratory methodology and renal pathology.

The Kidney and Hypertension in Diabetes mellitus, Third Edition endeavors to cover all aspects of renal involvement in diabetes. It is written by colleagues who are themselves active in the many fields of medical research covered in this volume: epidemiology, physiology and pathophysiology, laboratory methodology and renal pathology. This new edition focuses on pressure-induced and metabolic related aberration, in relation to genetic abnormalities, and also changes developing in fetal life. New chapters also include exercise, lipidemia, and retinopathy in diabetic renal disease. In addition, new data are included regarding structural changes in NIDDM-patients and the comparison of diabetic and non-diabetic renal disease.

A distinction between primary and secondary brain damage of vari­ ous origin, particularly in acute lesions, such as head injury and ische­ mia is not entirely new. The concept is of practical significance, be­ cause it is the foremost intention of all clinical efforts to prevent, or at least attenuate the development of secondary sequelae. Primary dam­ age to nervous elements usually cannot be influenced by treatment. Its prevention is the objective of prophylactic measures. The current volume gathered prominent scientists and clinicians from various fields to pro­ vide a competent introduction and survey of the various aspects involved in secondary brain damage. It was attempted to provide criteria for the distinction between the primary and secondary phenomena on a morpho­ logical and functional level, on the basis of the kinetics involved and, most importantly, regarding the different specific manifestations, such as disturbances of microcirculation, aspects of the blood-brain barrier, and of cellular structure and function at a molecular level. Although it was not expected that a grand unifying hypothesis will be reached recon­ cilable with the many, occasionally opposing views on such a complex subject, nevertheless, the present volume attains an appropriate result. It can best be described as a mosaic of many different pieces which only as an ensemble reflect the current state of the art.

The kidney, similar to the heart, plays a three-fold role in essential hypertension. First, it participates in the patho­ genesis of arterial hypertension. Second, it suffers as a target organ of long-standing hypertension, and third, it experiences the effects of antihypertensive therapy. Perhaps most contested at the present time is the involvement of the kidney in the patho­ genesis of essential hypertension. More than a century ago, William Osler put forward three basic hypotheses about the'genuine contracted kidney.'l 1.'The hypertrophy can be regarded as an effect to overcome a sort of stop-cock action of the vessels when under the influence of an irritating ingredient in the blood greatly contracted and increased the peripheral resistance.'Clearly this hypothesis of an'irritating ingredient'is perhaps the most convincing nowadays, and numerous attempts have been made to identify a specific vasoconstrictive agent in the blood in essential hypertension. 2.'The obliteration of a large number of capillary territories in the kidney materially raised the arterial pressure. An additional factor of dimin­ ished excretion of water also heightened the pressure within the blood vessel.'Today we know that fluid volume overload in the presence of reduced renal mass seems to be the most likely mechanism accoun­ ting for renal parenchymal hypertension and, as shown by Guyton's group, for certain forms of experimental hypertension. 3.

At the workshop held in Leverkusen on December 1, 1993, Professor Dr. Stanislav Kazda was honored on the occasion of his retirement for his scientific contributions and his involvement in drug development in our company, Bayer AG. In a recent article by Eugene Garfield (Current ContentslLife Sciences 36:3-15, 1993), what most of us participating in this workshop have supposed for years was confirmed: that Kazda is one of the leading scientific authors in academia worldwide. In the said survey of citations of biomedical research articles, Kazda is number 29 in terms of actual impact, individual ~itations, and total number of published manuscripts (and this only covers the time period from 1981 to 1992). In addition, his work has contributed significantly to the number eight ranking of our company in the so-called Corporation List. With the support of colleagues inside and outside the company, Kazda made a new substance class, the 1, 4-dihydropyridines, discovered by Bossert and Vater, well known to the scientific community on a worldwide basis and established its outstanding usefulness in hypertension. He has contributed numerous publi­ cations on the pharmacology of these calcium antagonists and organized several international conferences on the topic. Although he became famous as a cardiovascular pharmacologist, he started his career as a physician with the subjects obstetrics and gynecology. He studied at the Medical Faculty in Prague and at the Universities of Kasan and Kharkow (1950-1957).

Few complications of systemic diseases are better understood than diabetic nephropathy. In large part, progress in this area is due to Carl Erik Mogensen's steadfast preoccupation over more than three decades with the disorder's epidemiology, pathogenesis, pathophysiology, clinical diagnosis and evolving strategies of management. Though he sparked progress in each of these areas, he generously opens the forum of discussion to many expert contributors to this latest and most comprehensive edition of this exemplary textbook. In eliciting all relevant and up-to-date views, the reader, whether internist, pediatrician or specialist in endocrinology or nephrology, is assured a thorough review of the entire subject and in a format which is exceptionally well-written, well-illustrated and easy to read. Each of the prior editions have been an essential resource for my own work in this field and the 5th edition will no doubt continue to provide the information I and others will require to move forward in the years ahead. If only the other renal diseases were as masterfully synthesized, how much easier our task would be of achieving a comprehensive vision of all else in clinical nephrology. Barry M. Brenner, M.D., Samuel A. Levine Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School

The aim of present-day treatment of hypertension is no longer as the effective reduction of blood pressure, regarded merely but as the ever-increasing application of new therapeutic prin­ ciples to prevent such consequences of hypertension as left heart hypertrophy, medial hypertrophy of the vessels and ar­ teriosclerosis. In this context special attention has been di­ rected to stimulation of the endogenous vasocilator hormonal systems such as the prostaglandins. The great interest in our book, which has meanwhile appeared in a French edition, seems to confirm this trend and has encouraged us to include in the book the new findings published in the last twelve months. These changes and additions maintain the current status of the book and provide an even more complete survey of the available information about prostacyclin in hyperten­ sion. We wish to thank all those colleagues who have made useful suggestions for this second edition, as well as Springer­ Verlag and its associates, who ensured a uniformly smooth passage in the production of the book. Cologne and MUnster, January 1990 Gerd Bonner Karl-Heinz Rahn v Preface to the First Edition Diseases of the heart and circulation currently constitute the commonest causes of death in our population. Hypertension, as evidenced by a pathologic increase in blood pressure, is one of the most important risk factors. Primary hypertension can be established in about 15% of adults. Patients with hyperten­ sion usually feel well subjectively and only rarely complain of symptoms.

The first edition of this handbook appeared exactly twenty-five years ago. Due to enormous changes in the area of diuretics, the second edition has had to be completely revised. Substantial progress has been made in the functional anatomy of the kidney and in the concepts of how substances and ions are specifically transported across the various nephron segments. No one could have foreseen twenty-five years ago that the late 1980s and the early 1990s have provided us with methodologies to study transport events not only at the single cell level, but even at the level of the single transporter molecule. Many of the transporters for ions and organic substances have been cloned meanwhile by the new methods of molecular biology, and their function can be described more precisely by new transport studies such as the patch-clamp technique. These new insights have also led to a new understanding of how the currently used diuretics act. Just a few months ago, the Na+Cl- co-transporter, which is the target of thiazides, the Na+2CI-K+ co-transporter, which is the target of furosemide, and the amiloride sensitive Na+ channel were cloned. Hence, the targets of diuretics have now been identified at the molecular level. In addition, during the past twenty-five years extensive studies have been performed on the pharmacokinetics of diuretics. We have learned how changes in liver metabolism and altered renal excretion influence the pharmacology of this class of compounds.

With great pleasure we present our Third International Workshop on The Local C- diac Renin–Angiotensin–Aldosterone System (RAAS), held at the Ochsner Clinic Foundation in November 2008. When this meeting was rst organized in 2002, we were pleased that all who were invited to participate in our rst workshop attended our program; and what is most satisfying, all of these participants returned for the second and this, the third workshop. In addition, we are delighted that a number of additional workers in this growing eld of investigation joined us for this third program. Over the years since our rst workshop, there is little doubt as to the existence of a local RAAS in the heart. Indeed, there is substantial evidence as to the existence of other local systems in brain, vessels, adrenal, and, as presented in the current workshop, the kidneys. What is even more stimulating intellectually, through dup- cation of local RAAS systems a remarkable yin-yang biological balance is provided by nature. Thus, in the current third workshop considerable evidence has accu- lated over the years for complicated local systems that serve to provide exquisite and unique local control of local organ functions.

Clinical Nephrotoxins: Renal Injury from Drugs and Chemicals, Third Edition is a comprehensive text on all aspects of adverse effects by drugs, chemical substances and radiation on the kidneys. The importance of the toxicity of drugs and other substances for the kidneys is increasingly recognized. The book consists of themes such as clinical relevance, renal handling and cellular mechanisms of nephrotoxicity, as well as animal and cell culture models. In addition, the volume highlights specific types of drugs, such as anti-infectious agents and anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular and anti-cancer drugs. The last section deals with prevention and focuses on urinary biomarkers, pharmacological aspects and drug dosage in renal failure. In this third and completely revised edition, several new topics were added and additional figures and tables will be included. The book is of interest for the nephrologist, internist, general practitioner, toxicologist, pharmacologist, anesthesiologist, epidemiologist, public health official, pharmaceutical industry, and national drug safety committees, among others.

In this book, a worldwide panel of leading experts discuss the role of inflammation in the pathogenesis of major chronic diseases and the current controversy regarding risk versus benefit of selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitors. The authors provide exciting and enlightening perspectives on COX-2 and related molecular targets in the future of medicine, including historical perspectives.

Frühzeitige Diagnose – Richtige Therapie Bakterien, Parasiten, Pilze, Viren, Prionen - Neueste Diagnostik und Therapie Antibiotika, Antiparasitika, Antimykotika, Virustatika - welcher Arzneistoff wirkt? Dosierung, Therapiedauer, kritische Resistenzen – wie ist die praktische Handhabung? Alltagsinfektionen, Nosokomiale Infektionen, Infektionen bei speziellen Patienten – was muss beachtet werden? Für jeden Fall … Tourismus, Geschäftsreisen, Migrationen:Seltene Erreger und neue Resistenzen müssen bei Differentialdiagnose und Therapie bedacht werden Hohe Bevölkerungsdichte, industrielle Nahrungsmittelfertigung:Schnell erfolgt die Ansteckung großer Gruppen – rasche Diagnose, Meldung und Therapie ist erforderlich Immundefiziente Patienten:HIV-Infektion, immunsuppressive Therapie – spezielle Diagnostik und Therapie ist notwendig … Wissen von Appendizitis bis Zestoden Unschlagbar umfassend Impfungen, Antibiotikaprophylaxe bei interventionellen Eingriffen, Prophylaxe in der Endoskopie Seuchenhygienische und sozialmedizinische Aspekte Abkürzungsverzeichnis und zentrale Internetadressen Anhang mit Liste aller wichtigen Arzneistoffe Für Gastroenterologen, Internisten und Hygieniker. Ein interdisziplinäres Werk, das Ihnen alle Antworten bietet

To you the reader, the joy of discovery begins, for We continue in our goal of providing a text which us the job is done. In this edition, we have corrected is useful, not only to the clinician, but of equal interest past deficiencies, added new topics, expanded infor- to the investigator. The selection of content has been mation regarding the pediatric age group, provided directed at topics of current interest rather than those up to date (March 2003) references, while remaining of historic contribution. We have stressed the cont- true to our concept of a multi-national author book. bution of cell biology and pathophysiology, were it We continue to believe that scientific information is an exists, believing it provides both a better understa- international commodity whose interpretation and ap- ing of toxic injury when known, and a rational dir- plication are strongly influenced by both the cultural tion for therapy and prevention. and ethnic background of the observer. The oppor- nity to share in the rich diversity of the international We are encouraged by the accumulation of rec- scientific community remains a fundamental goal of nized risk factors, which allow pre-treatment strati- this endeavor. To participate as equals leads to mu- cation of our patients'relative risk and allow us to - tual respect and peer appreciation. The sharing of in- cus our preventative techniques on the individuals tellectual resources fostered by this effort should and most likely to gain the greatest benefit.