ISSN:
1432-1416
Keywords:
Ergodic theory
;
Extinction
;
Cell populations
;
Leukemia
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Mathematics
Notes:
Abstract The time evolution of slowly evolving discrete dynamical systems x i + 1 = T(r i ,x i ), defined on an interval [0, L], where a parameter r ichanges slowly with respect to i is considered. For certain transformations T, once r i reaches a critical value the system faces a non-zero probability of extinction because some x j ∋ [0, L]. Recent ergodic theory results of Ruelle, Pianigiani, and Lasota and Yorke are used to derive a simple expression for the probability of survival of these systems. The extinction process is illustrated with two examples. One is the quadratic map, T(r, x) = rx(1 − x), and the second is a simple model for the growth of a cellular population. The survival statistics for chronic myelogenous leukemia patients are discussed in light of these extinction processes. Two other dynamical processes of biological importance, to which our results are applicable, are mentioned.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00276093
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