Cardiovascular System Dynamics [antikvár]

forewordIt is a great honour for me to open these Proceedings with a few brief remarks. Our Symposium is devoted to the presentation and discussion of modern aspects of the entire field of Circulatory Dynamics. Thus, the program comprises the mechanical properties of the heart pump as a whole - including valve function - and also of the myocardial microstructure. Special reference is made to coronary dynamics. The systemic and pulmonary vessels are treated from different points of view. Apart from the mechanical properties of the walls and recent results of pressure and flow studies, several models of the arterial system are discussed and overall arterial impedances, with particular reference to the input impedances as connecting links between the heart ventricles and their respective vessel systems, as well as local arterial impedances,are considered. Special attention is given to microvascular dynamics and to the contractile system and the various modes of activity of the smooth musculature.A further important section of the program deals with the organization and control of the cardiovascular system in toto, and of some of its subunits. New results on the effects of chemical agents and varying oxygen supply are reported.Each of the aforementioned sections is rounded off with contributions dealing with direct and indirect measuring techniques, including non-invasive methods, in particular those concerning blood velocity, blood density, and various ways of determining stroke volume. Considerable importance is attached to the aspects of the applied physiology and pathophysiology pertinent to each section. In addition, topics of clinical relevance are also discussed.Without a doubt, the diversity of the program will appeal to researchers in the fields of theoretical and clinical medicine as well as biophysics and biomedical engineering.As to the atmosphere in which the Symposium took place, I would like to emphasize that, at Graz, the scientific soil seems to be exceptionally fertile. The University was founded in 1586 and acquired the Faculty of Medicine in 1863. Many highly renowned scientists have