Analysis of physiological meaning of detrended Fluctuation Analysis in Heart Rate Variability using a lumped parameter model

Chaos and fractal based measurements, such as detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA), have been widely used for quantifying the heart rate variability (HRV) for cardiac risk stratification purposes. However, the physiological meaning of these measurements is not clear. Given that existing lumped parameter models contain a detailed physiological description of several of the circulatory system regulation processes, we hypothesize that controlled changes in these processes will highlight the physiological basis in DFA indices. We used a detailed lumped parameter model of HRV, introduced earlier. Ten signals were generated in different physiological conditions. DFA coefficients alpha₁, alpha₂, and the Hurst exponent, were calculated. A clear disruption point was always observed. Modifications in sympatho-vagal activity yielded significant changes in alpha₁ when compared to basal, but not in alpha₂ or Hurst exponent. Modifications in non-nervous system mediated changes yielded significant differences only for peripheral resistance and heart period, only in alpha₁. In conclusion, the analysis of the effect of changes in the regulatory system on the HRV chaotic/fractal indices can be analyzed using detailed lumped parameter models.