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A Glossary for Systems Biology

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STATIC (BEHAVIOR) Glossary ROBUSTNESS

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SENSITIVITY

see also

robustness

Meaning

Biology:

1. Classical
   • ``Allergic response to contact with irritant, usually a hypersensitivity'' [38].
   • ``Sensitivity means the ability of an organism to perceive, process and conduct emotional and sensual stimuli [...].'' [37]
2. A measure for the minimal strength of a certain stimulus required for a reaction.

Systems Theory:

1. A measure for the strength of the reaction of a system to a certain stimulus.

Explanation

In one interpretation, both biology and systems theory define sensitivity in terms of influence of a certain stimulus on a reaction. In systems theory, sensitivity is a measure for how strong the reaction to a certain stimulus is; the stronger the reaction to the same stimulus, the more sensitive (to that stimulus) the system is [26]. In biology, sensitivity is a measure for how strong a stimulus has to be, before a system reacts to it; the smaller a stimulus is sufficient to elicit a reaction, the more sensitive a system is.

In another interpretation, biology distinguishes between the normal physiological reaction that is needed for the organism to be able to function, and a bigger than normal and potentially dangerous reaction (hypersensitivity), that is detrimental for normal function.

Something similar can be seen in systems theory. Here as well, a certain amount of influence of parameters is wanted and needed to allow the system or controller to perform its function. Extreme reactions are usually something that endangers this function. Therefore, there has to be a consideration of dangers and benefits, allowing enough influence for operation without endangering the system's integrity (robustness).

Examples

Biology:

• Allergic reaction

Systems Theory:

• robust controller

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