Comparison of three methods of determining oxygen consumption and resting energy expenditure.

Resting energy expenditure (REE) in intensive care unit patients was evaluated by three methods--indirect calorimetry (REE-IC), Fick equation (REE-F), and estimation from the Harris-Benedict equation (REE-HB). The mean REE-IC and REE-F values did not differ significantly. However, both values were significantly higher than the REE-HB. The present study indicates that a reasonably accurate estimate of the REE can be obtained from data available by Swan-Ganz catheterization. The Fick method is technically simpler to perform and less expensive than indirect calorimetry. The invasive nature of Swan-Ganz catheterization is a major disadvantage. However, right-sided heart catheterization frequently is required for the management of intensive care unit patients. For them, REE-F appears to be a reasonable alternative.

Simultaneous detection of IgE binding to several allergens using a nitrocellulose 'polydisc'.

The use of nitrocellulose for allergen disc preparation permits several different allergens to be applied as separate spots to the same disc for simultaneous evaluation with one serum sample (50 microliter). To achieve this, an immunological application method involving anti-human IgE and the peroxidase-anti-peroxidase procedure must be used with a substrate that produces an insoluble product. The suitability of the polydiscs for routine clinical evaluation of several allergens at once was demonstrated by testing the sera of seven allergic bakers with discs containing extracts of flour or pollen from wheat, cereal rye, or rye grass.