Biotrans: Description of a Data Transfer Program for the Biostator

Abstract

Glucose clamp experiments are often performed by means of a Biostator. Due to the fact that this device does not provide data storage, data analysis has to be done manually or data must be fed into the computer. In order to enhance the efficacy of data analysis and to avoid time consuming work, a data acquisition program (Biotrans) has been developed which allows data transfer from the Biostator into an IBM compatible computer. After a complex analysis of incoming data, Biotrans provides on-line data storage and display features (blood glucose concentrations and glucose infusion rate). Off-line analysis of the stored data is accomplished by conventional spread sheet programs, thus permitting complex data calculations and graphic presentation. In more than 300 glucose clamp experiments performed within the last three years Biotrans was an important tool providing data storage capabilities, better control of ongoing events during an experiment and rapid and reliable data analysis immediately after completion of individual experiments.