NONLINEAR MODEL STUDY OF PERIODIC BREATHING IN INFANTS.

A mathematical model has been adapted to study the stability of the infant respiratory system. The nonlinear differential equations with time delays have been solved using a numerical method. The model has both peripheral and central controllers. Using parameter values determined in various published studies, it is shown that the respiratory control system of certain infants is marginally stable. The effect of sighs and hypoxia on the system's stability was studied. It was found that the respiratory control system of the majority of infants is highly stable when subjected to minor hypoxia. This model shows that, in most cases, periodic breathing is mediated primarily by the peripheral controller.