ABSTRACT
The review deals with new trends in modeling the vestibular function of the hemispheric channels (HC) involved in the head angular movements. The trends were spurred by the growing significance of computers in both mathematical modeling and direct simulation of the HC structure and processes, and conditions of experiments. Literature analysis reveals the following trends in the CH modeling: 1) reconstruction, 2) micromodeling, 3) integral modeling, 4) simulation (imitation), and 5) alternative modeling. The article gives several examples of the modern trends in HC modeling.
Subject(s)
Computer Simulation/trends , Models, Theoretical , Postural Balance/physiology , Vestibule, Labyrinth/physiology , Animals , HumansABSTRACT
Physical and chemical processes of the transformation of mechanic stimuli into nerve signals in the otolith responsible for gravity and linear accelerations perception are of interest of equally biologists and experts in aerospace medicine. A severe experimental difficulty is the small size of the otolith and, therefore, mathematical and computer modeling has become a powerful tool for examination of the otolith organs. Most of the above processes are spatially distributed; consequently, spatial distribution models will provide the exact description of the existing biological structures and processes. The review is dedicated to these models and their applicability to demonstrate the variety of processes associated with the otolith.
Subject(s)
Models, Theoretical , Otolithic Membrane/anatomy & histology , Otolithic Membrane/physiology , Aerospace Medicine/methods , Computer Simulation , Gravity Sensing/physiology , HumansABSTRACT
The mathematical model of the system composed of two sensors: semicircular canal and sacculus, is presented. The system is described by three series of blocks: biomechanical block, mechanoelectrical transduction mechanism and hair cell ionic currents and membrane potential dynamics. The response of the aforecited system to various stimuli (head rotation under gravity and falling) was investigated. The identification of the model parameters was fulfilled for the experimental data, obtained for the axolotle (Ambystoma tigrinum) in Institute of Physiology, Autonomous University of Puebla, Mexico. The comparative analysis of canal and sacculus membrane potential was realized.
