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A simplified model of valveless pumping in avian lungs (LB824)
Author(s) -
Harvey Emily,
BenTal Alona
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.28.1_supplement.lb824
Subject(s) - flow (mathematics) , mechanics , volumetric flow rate , phenomenological model , physics , quantum mechanics
Birds have a remarkable respiratory system in which air flows unidirectionally through rigid lungs. This unique structure enables birds to utilize oxygen at a much higher rate than is possible in mammals, and allows them to cope with much lower atmospheric pressure and oxygen levels. However, the dynamics leading to this unidirectional flow are poorly understood. We construct a phenomenological one‐dimensional model of flow in a closed loop with a single pumping source. The complex anatomical structure of the avian respiratory system is represented in our model using varying compliances and resistances to flow. This leads to a simplified model of air flow in avian lungs. Using our model, we investigate conditions under which unidirectional flow is generated, and demonstrate that the anatomically determined parameters are important in determining the direction and magnitude of a net flow. We then incorporate the effect of a second pumping source, in order to represent both the caudal and cranial air sacs. Grant Funding Source : NIH grant R01 NS069220