Validation of a propane gas calibration device for indirect calorimetric systems

Ismail, Mohammad A. (2017) Validation of a propane gas calibration device for indirect calorimetric systems. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

[English] PDF - Accepted Version Available under License - The author retains copyright ownership and moral rights in this thesis. Neither the thesis nor substantial extracts from it may be printed or otherwise reproduced without the author's permission. Download (4MB)

Abstract

Indirect calorimetry (IC) estimates volumes of oxygen uptake (V̇O₂) and carbon dioxide production (V̇ CO₂). From these volumes we calculate energy expenditure and respiratory exchange ratio which is used to estimate substrate utilization rates. The accuracy of IC systems is critical to detect small changes in metabolic data. Indirect calorimetry systems calibration is one way to ensure accurate data. The aim of this study was to validate a new calibration method using propane gas technique with three metabolic systems under environment with standardized conditions. A series of propane gas with different flow levels and ventilation rates were run on three different IC systems. The actual experimental V̇O₂ and V̇CO₂ were calculated and compared to stoichiometry theoretical values. Results showed a linear relationship between gas volumes (V̇O₂ and V̇CO₂) and propane gas flows (99.6%, 99.2%, 94.8% for Sable, Moxus, and Jaeger systems respectively). In terms of system error, Jaeger system had significantly (p < .001) greater V̇O₂ (M = -0.057, SE = .004), and V̇CO₂ (M = -0.048, SE = .002) error compared to either the Sable (V̇O₂, M = 0.044, SE = 0.004; V̇CO₂, M = 0.024, SE = 0.002) or Moxus (V̇O₂, M = 0.046, SE = 0.004; V̇CO₂, M = 0.025, SE = 0.002) systems. There were no significant differences between Sable or Moxus systems. In conclusion, propane gas technique is valid to calibrate Sable and Moxus systems but not Jaeger system. Keywords: calibration, energy expenditure, Indirect calorimetry, propane gas.

Actions (login required)

View Item