All issues

We study the computational properties of a parametric class of finite-volume schemes with customizable dissipative properties with splitting by physical processes into Lagrangian, Eulerian, and the final stages (the hybrid large-particle method). The method has a second-order approximation in space and time on smooth solutions. The regularization of a numerical solution at the Lagrangian stage is performed by nonlinear correction of artificial viscosity. Regardless of the grid resolution, the artificial viscosity value tends to zero outside the zone of discontinuities and extremes in the solution. At Eulerian and final stages, primitive variables (density, velocity, and total energy) are first reconstructed by an additive combination of upwind and central approximations weighted by a flux limiter. Then numerical divergent fluxes are formed from them. In this case, discrete analogs of conservation laws are performed.

The analysis of dissipative properties of the method using known viscosity and flow limiters, as well as their linear combination, is performed. The resolution of the scheme and the quality of numerical solutions are demonstrated by examples of two-dimensional benchmarks: a gas flow around the step with Mach numbers 3, 10 and 20, the double Mach reflection of a strong shock wave, and the implosion problem. The influence of the scheme viscosity of the method on the numerical reproduction of a gases interface instability is studied. It is found that a decrease of the dissipation level in the implosion problem leads to the symmetric solution destruction and formation of a chaotic instability on the contact surface.

Numerical solutions are compared with the results of other authors obtained using higher-order approximation schemes: CABARET, HLLC (Harten Lax van Leer Contact), CFLFh (CFLF hybrid scheme), JT (centered scheme with limiter by Jiang and Tadmor), PPM (Piecewise Parabolic Method), WENO5 (weighted essentially non-oscillatory scheme), RKGD (Runge –Kutta Discontinuous Galerkin), hybrid weighted nonlinear schemes CCSSR-HW4 and CCSSR-HW6. The advantages of the hybrid large-particle method include extended possibilities for solving hyperbolic and mixed types of problems, a good ratio of dissipative and dispersive properties, a combination of algorithmic simplicity and high resolution in problems with complex shock-wave structure, both instability and vortex formation at interfaces.

The paper presents a review of recent developments of hybrid discrete-continuous models in cell population dynamics. Such models are widely used in the biological modelling. Cells are considered as individual objects which can divide, die by apoptosis, differentiate and move under external forces. In the simplest representation cells are considered as soft spheres, and their motion is described by Newton’s second law for their centers. In a more complete representation, cell geometry and structure can be taken into account. Cell fate is determined by concentrations of intra-cellular substances and by various substances in the extracellular matrix, such as nutrients, hormones, growth factors. Intra-cellular regulatory networks are described by ordinary differential equations while extracellular species by partial differential equations. We illustrate the application of this approach with some examples including bacteria filament and tumor growth. These examples are followed by more detailed studies of erythropoiesis and immune response. Erythrocytes are produced in the bone marrow in small cellular units called erythroblastic islands. Each island is formed by a central macrophage surrounded by erythroid progenitors in different stages of maturity. Their choice between self-renewal, differentiation and apoptosis is determined by the ERK/Fas regulation and by a growth factor produced by the macrophage. Normal functioning of erythropoiesis can be compromised by the development of multiple myeloma, a malignant blood disorder which leads to a destruction of erythroblastic islands and to sever anemia. The last part of the work is devoted to the applications of hybrid models to study immune response and the development of viral infection. A two-scale model describing processes in a lymph node and other organs including the blood compartment is presented.

Transport of respiratory gases by respiratory and circulatory systems is one of the most important processes associated with living conditions of the human body. Significant and/or long-term deviations of oxygen and carbon dioxide concentrations from the normal values in blood can be a reason of significant pathological changes with irreversible consequences: lack of oxygen (hypoxia and ischemic events), the change in the acidbase balance of blood (acidosis or alkalosis), and others. In the context of a changing external environment and internal conditions of the body the action of its regulatory systems aimed at maintaining homeostasis. One of the major mechanisms for maintaining concentrations (partial pressures) of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood at a normal level is the regulation of minute ventilation, respiratory rate and depth of respiration, which is caused by the activity of the central and peripheral regulators.

In this paper we propose a mathematical model of the regulation of pulmonary ventilation parameter. The model is used to calculate the minute ventilation adaptation during hypoxia and hypercapnia. The model is developed using a single-component model of the lungs, and biochemical equilibrium conditions of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood and the alveolar lung volume. A comparison with laboratory data is performed during hypoxia and hypercapnia. Analysis of the results shows that the model reproduces the dynamics of minute ventilation during hypercapnia with sufficient accuracy. Another result is that more accurate model of regulation of minute ventilation during hypoxia should be developed. The factors preventing from satisfactory accuracy are analysed in the final section.

Respiratory function is one of the main limiting factors of the organism during intense physical activities. Thus, it is important characteristic of high performance sport and extreme physical activity conditions. Therefore, the results of this study have significant application value in the field of mathematical modeling in sport. The considered conditions of hypoxia and hypercapnia are partly reproduce training at high altitude and at hypoxia conditions. The purpose of these conditions is to increase the level of hemoglobin in the blood of highly qualified athletes. These conditions are the only admitted by sport committees.