Browsing by Author "Garrett, David"
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Item Open Access Hydration Monitoring using Microwaves: From Modelling and Estimation of Tissue Properties to Validation in Humans(2018-09-21) Garrett, David; Fear, Elise C.; Fear, Elise C.; Okoniewski, Michal M.; Kuo, Arthur D.; Hogan, David B.Dehydration is a prevalent condition which can have profound health consequences. If detected early, it can often be treated by oral fluid replacement. A variety of assessment techniques have been proposed, but none have yet emerged as convenient and accurate indicators. This thesis investigates the use of microwave measurements at the extremities to monitor human hydration, relying on the strong relationship between dielectric properties of tissues and water content. A model describing changes in tissue properties according to dehydration is first developed. We then report an empirical feasibility study in athletes undergoing exercise, demonstrating a relationship between estimated permittivity and weight changes due to water loss. Finally, improved property estimation techniques are introduced which are suitable for reliably detecting changes due to dehydration. This thesis provides a comprehensive initial assessment of how microwave measurements may be used to provide the clinically-demanded method of human hydration assessment.