The theme of the 1983 annual ISOTT meeting emphasizes a dual scientific approach, utilizing interdisciplinary theoretical and experimental methodology, to unravel the secrets of oxygen transport to tissue. ISOTT is leading the way in the development and application of forefront techniques to allow a more basic understanding of this important physiological phenomena. The Society can be proud of its contributions in helping to advance the gross analysis techniques of the past to the synergistic study of tissue micro areas by sophisticated mathematical and experimental means. There is a tremendous need to continue the pursuit of basic knowledge at the regional tissue level and to move rapidly to the examination of fundamental biochemical reactions at the cellular level. To accomplish this, it will be necessary to take advantage of the most powerful computing machinery presently available and to apply state-of-the-art experimental methodology, such as polarographic, autoradiographic and nuclear magnetic resonance techniques in our studies. Our Society must continue to work hard to push back barriers to enhance our understanding of mechanisms that lead to pathology. Hopefully, our efforts will be significant in helping science to overcome the many dreadful diseases that mankind faces in today’s world. Duane Bruley Haim Bicher Daniel Reneau v ACKNOWLEDGEMENT We are forever indebted to Connie Staggs and Ellie Topakoglu for their energy and sacrifice in preparing for and managing the 1983 ISOTT meeting.