Global perspectives on observing ocean boundary current systems

Ocean boundary current systems are key components of the climate system, are home to highly productive ecosystems, and have numerous societal impacts. Establishment of a global network of boundary current observing systems is a critical part of ongoing development of the Global Ocean Observing System. The characteristics of boundary current systems are reviewed, focusing on scientific and societal motivations for sustained observing. Techniques currently used to observe boundary current systems are reviewed, followed by a census of the current state of boundary current observing systems globally. Next steps in the development of boundary current observing systems are considered, leading to several specific recommendations

Pulmonary veno-occlusive disease: diagnosis during life in four patients.

Pulmonary veno-occlusive disease is a rare form of primary pulmonary hypertension of unknown aetiology. Four cases were diagnosed in young patients. The diagnosis was suspected on the basis of clinical, radiological, echocardiographic, and catheter evidence and confirmed by taking a lung biopsy sample. In all patients the histology showed obstruction of the pulmonary veins by intimal fibrosis. The clinical course of all patients has been one of progressive deterioration. Although there is no specific treatment for this disease, to establish the diagnosis during life is of great importance in overall clinical management, including counselling the patient and family