ENERGY METABOLISM OF RATS BORN AND RAISED IN LOW-PRESSURE PURE OXYGEN ENVIRONMENT.
Abstract
Ten rats born and maintained in a pure oxygen environment at a total pressure of 210 mm. Hg absolute were placed individually in metabolism cages at 21 days of age and remained there for 6 weeks. They were compared with a similar group of ground-level controls. In additon, 6 rats maintained at altitude and 6 controls were sacrificed at 21 days of age to provide an initial estimate of whole-body energy. Growth rates did not differ significantly; however, overall digestibility was lowered in experimentals, 74.3% versus 79.5% for controls (P < .001), with even greater differences in protein digestibility, 65.5% versus 74.6% (P < .001). Although less fat was also digested by experimentals, 75.6% versus 81.4%, this difference was not significant. Net caloric intake for both groups was the same, however, as a result of increased food intake by experimentals. Calories given off as heat did not differ, suggesting similar metabolic rates. Carcass content of fat and protein, as a percentage of dry matter, did not differ for 21- or 63- day-old rats. The 21-day-old experimentals had a higher water content, 68.1% versus 65.6% for controls (P < .05). Calories/gram on a dry-weight basis showed no significant differences in either the 21- or 63-day group. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0648129
Entities
People
- William E. Pepelko
Organizations
- United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine