An algorithm for the detection of peaks in biological signals

An algorithm based on the theory of maxima and minima is described for the detection of peaks in digitized biological signals. A three-point 'sliding' window is used to identify the peaks, while a threshold window involving a combination of amplitude, slope or duration criterion is employed to eliminate spurious peaks. The algorithm is well-suited for real-time processing of various biological signals to obtain such parameters as amplitudes and durations of peaks. Some examples of its applications to the analysis of gastric electrical activity are discussed.