Regression Modeling of the Acousto-Biomechanical Characteristics of Wheezes during Human Forced Expiration

Within the framework of a specified acousto-biomechanical model, a possibility of explaining wheezes during forced expiration on the basis of a vortex separation mechanism is tested and the localization of the zones in the bronchial tree where forced expiratory wheezes are generated is refined. As an experimental model, a group of 18 healthy volunteers from 18 to 44 years old (median is equal 19) was used. On the basis of linear regression modeling the relationship between the principal spectral frequency of medium-frequency forced expiratory wheezes (400–600 Hz) recorded on the trachea and the standard volume flow-rates of expired air measured in computer spirometry is analyzed. The data obtained show that vortex separation in the air flow at the bronchial tree bifurcations (where a stepwise increase in the cross-section area takes place) is a probable mechanism of medium-frequency forced expiratory wheeze generation and that during the forced expiratory maneuver the vortex separation zone tends to be displaced deeper into the bronchial tree.