The diversity and significance of recent research on the kallikrein-kinin system provided the impetus for this international conference, the purpose of which was the assessment of our knowledge and the development of a base from which to plan future research. Through the generous support of the Fogarty International Center and of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, the Organizing Committee was able to bring together authorities in virtually every aspect of kinin research. The kallikrein-kinin field was divided into three major areas: A) Characterization and assays of components of the kallikrein-kinin systems; B) Interacting systems: Fibrinolysis, complement, coagulation, and prostaglandins; and C) Physiological, pathological, and clinical significance. Invited experts were instructed to present concise critical reviews along with any new data. Time was a)so provided for discussants to present relevant comments and data. Selected discussions accompany the keynote reports, and these comprise the short chapters.

Immunopharmacology: A New Discipline of Immense Potential Among the looming triumphs of the biologic revolution is the rapidly developing understanding of the mechanisms of bodily defense. In the short span of 35 years, knowledge of immunologic machinery has progressed from crudest description to major understanding in cellular and molecular terms. Antibodies, immunoglobulins, and the complement system have been almost completely defined in detailed molecular terms. Organs, like thymus, spleen and lymph nodes-so long enigmatic black boxes-are beginning to be understood not only in cellular terms but in molecular, physiologic, and endocrinologic terms. With this surging new information about the immune system comes the possi bility of developing a pharmacology which can modulate and control immunologic functions. Immunopharmacology most broadly conceived must address (1) control of development and function of the cellular components of the immunologic appara tus; (2) facilitation and suppression of function of the immunologically competent cells of the several subclasses, like T helpers, suppressors, and effectors, and B effectors and suppressors; (3) manipulation and repair of the major biologic amplifi cation systems, e. g. , the complement system and kinin-kallikrein system, and (4) utilization, modulation, and inhibition of the galaxy of molecules generated by T lymphocytes, the lymphokines. This new pharmacology must deal with the funda mental effector mechanisms of immunity, namely inflammation, phagocytosis, vascular reactivity, and blood coagulation. Furthermore, immunopharmacology must address and manipulate cell-cell communication and interaction, so vital to control of the immunological apparatus.

Volume XXV of the Handbook of Experimental Pharmacology series entitled "Bradykinin, Kallidin, and Kallikrein" was published in 1970. My aim in editing this volume of the series is not to replace, but to update the 1970 edition. During the decade preceding the publication of Vol. XXV, the existence of kinins and kallikreins gained acceptance, the protein components of the system were purified and characterized and the peptides were synthesized. Even after these accomplish ments, interest in the subject has not abated, but has increased substantially. We have learned a great deal about the role that components of the kallikrein-kinin system play in other systems and about the immensely complex and intricate inter actions in blood. Directly or indirectly, kallikrein and kinins affect the coagulation of blood, the activation of complement, and the generation of angiotensin. Kinins release or modulate the actions of other agents, including prostaglandins, histamine, and catecholamines. Inhibitors of kallikrein or kininase II are employed, for example, in extracorporeal circulation or in hypertension. Kallikrein, kinins, and kininases, present in urine, were described first in 1925 and 1954, but have been ignored for decades. These substances are now studied extensively because of their possible role in blood pressure regulation. The evidence that kinins have a metabolic function is also increasing. The abundance of active components of the system in genital organs suggests a role in the fertilization process. The book is organized into chapters which bear upon these issues.

The tradition of meeting together periodically at Fiesole, in Florence, by now dear to those interested in the problems of Kinins, was respected once again. This year the Symposium "Kinin 1975" was held on the 15th - 17th of July. Participation at the Symposium drew attention to the fact that 1975 was a particularly difficult year due to the delicate international economic situation as well as the time restrictions for organizing the Symposium as a satellite conference to the Sixth International Congress of Pharmacology held in Helsinki, Finland. Despite these difficulties, the "Kinin 175" Symposium was an unquestioned success, due, in great part, to the more than 40 contributors who presented their most current studies at the customary high scientific standard, presentations that provoked and stimulated considerable discussion and debate. While our family tree now includes new and active members, the presence of many members of our "Kinin" society unable to attend was missed. In particular, we mourne the death of Professor E. Werle, one of the most outstanding pioneers in the field of the kallikrein-kinin system. His friendship, participation and counsel was, and will continue to be, sorely missed by his many colleagues and students who are indebted to him for his voluminous and scientifically expert contributions continued until the very end of his most full and productive life. As in the past, the atmosphere of friendship and relaxation of the Symposium enhanced the very useful communication and exchange of ideas and information amongst the participants.

First multi-year cumulation covers six years: 1965-70.

Written for a multidisciplinary audience, this revision presents current data on antithrombotic therapy including warfarins and heparin, delivers practical techniques for diagnosing and treating bleeding and clotting disorders, and includes all topics necessary for board review. This practical text covers disorders of thrombosis and hemostasis in a logical and sequential manner: etiology, pathophysiology, clinical and laboratory diagnosis, and management. Also included are diagnostic tests for deep venous thrombosis, three new clotting defects, hereditary disorders and defects, liver and renal diseases, cardiovascular events, and problems in obstetrical/gynecological patients. A Brandon-Hill recommended title.

February issue includes Appendix entitled Directory of United States Government periodicals and subscription publications; September issue includes List of depository libraries; June and December issues include semiannual index