Time series calculation of heart rate using multi rate FIR filters

The spectral analysis of heart rate variability, based on the Fourier transform, needs even sampled data. The objectives of this study were to develop an interpolation method based on multi rate FIR filters, and then to implement this method for parallel processing machines. A total of three data sets were used: a) simulated heart rate with an IPFM model, b) autonomic blockage database (both pharmacological and postural), and c) long term Holter studies (recordings of 24 hours). Spectral analysis, for the three data sets, was processed for both interpolation using FIR filters and cubic splines, the results for Bland and Altman analysis for low frequency band, showed a difference of -47plusmn131 ms²; then for the high frequency band, the difference was 3plusmn48 ms². The presented method of time series calculation, using FIR filters, probed to be equivalent for both simulated and real data, and is suitable for parallel programming implementation.