Spin models of quasi-1D quantum ferrimagnets with competing interactions

We present a brief survey of the recent theoretical work related to generic Heisenberg spin models describing quasi-one-dimensional quantum ferrimagnets. The emphasis is on quantum chains and ladders with strong competing interactions, such as the frustrated $J_1-J_2$ chain with alternating (1,1/2) spins, the spin-1/2 diamond chain with four-spin cyclic couplings, and some generic types of mixed-spin ladders with geometric frustration. As a rule, discussed models exhibit rich quantum phase diagrams and provide some interesting examples of one-dimensional magnetic-paramagnetic quantum phase transitions. A number of open problems in the reviewed research area are discussed.