  Simulation on directed graphs is an important method for understanding the
dynamics in the systems where connectivity graphs contain cycles. Discrete
Stochastic Heterogeneous Simulator (DiSH) is one of the simulation tools with
wide application, which uses regulator values to calculate state updates of
regulated elements. Here we present a new simulation approach DiSH-trend which
also takes into account the trends in regulating elements. We demonstrate the
features of trend-based regulation, as well as hybrid regulation, which is a
combination of the trend- and level-based approaches. The modeling capabilities
are demonstrated on a small toy model, showcasing different functionalities.
Real-world capabilities are demonstrated on a larger network model of food
insecurity in the Ethiopian region Oromia. Adding trend-based regulation to
models results in increased modeling flexibility, and hybrid regulation
improves qualitative dynamic behavior prediction. With appropriate data,
DiSH-trend becomes a powerful tool for exploring intervention strategies.
