Chaos.As we begin a new century, despite all the research and technical achievements in science (particularly medicine), there remain large gaps in our understanding of how the human body works. Scientists are still searching for explanations for "erratic" and unpredictable behavior by attempting to create adequate models of instability. Chaos, or nonlinear dynamics nonlinear dynamics, study of systems governed by equations in which a small change in one variable can induce a large systematic change; the discipline is more popularly known as chaos (see chaos theory). , is a young science that is shedding light on an apparent inner order to seemingly random phenomena. Chaos is a nonlinear, predictable order of actions or events that lacks periodic repetition. This relatively new field is fascinating to those who seek better understanding of constantly fluctuating systems in medicine, such as the heart's electrical system and the human voice, as well as the weather and even the stock market! Nonlinear dynamic theory provides a means of describing the complex interactions of mathematical, physical, and biological systems that exhibit nonlinear characteristics. The distinct and complementary mathematical concepts of fractals and chaos are central to nonlinear dynamics theory. Gleick (1) has provided a particularly good introduction to chaos theory chaos theory, in mathematics, physics, and other fields, a set of ideas that attempts to reveal structure in aperiodic, unpredictable dynamic systems such as cloud formation or the fluctuation of biological populations. and fractal dimensions that is available commercially. In medicine, chaos and nonlinear dynamics have been used to investigate complex problems plaguing cardiology cardiology Medical specialty dealing with heart diseases and disorders. It began with the 1749 publication by Jean Baptiste de Sénac of contemporary knowledge of the heart. Diagnostic methods improved in the 19th century, and in 1905 the electrocardiograph was invented. , neurology, epidemiology, endocrinology, immunology, gerontology gerontology: see geriatrics. , otolaryngology (voice), and other disciplines. Sataloff and Hawkshaw Hawkshaw implacable detective with photographic memory. [Br. Lit.: The Ticket-of-Leave Man, Barnhart, 546] See : Sleuthing have collected illustrative applications of chaos and nonlinear dynamics to biomedical research Biomedical research (or experimental medicine), in general simply known as medical research, is the basic research or applied research conducted to aid the body of knowledge in the field of medicine. . (2) Clinical applications are already being applied in cardiology, neurology, and other fields. The potential for clinical applications appears limitless. Otolaryngologists will find it worthwhile to acquaint themselves with this fascinating new field, which provides such a useful new perspective and vocabulary for analyzing and describing the events around us. References (1.) Gleick J. Chaos: Making a New Science. NY: Viking Penguin, Inc., 1987. (2.) Sataloff R, Hawkshaw AM. Chaos in Medicine: Source Readings. San Diego San Diego (săn dēā`gō), city (1990 pop. 1,110,549), seat of San Diego co., S Calif., on San Diego Bay; inc. 1850. San Diego includes the unincorporated communities of La Jolla and Spring Valley. Coronado is across the bay. : Singular Thomson Learning, 2001. |
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