Ratiology and a Complementary Class of Metrics for Cardiovascular Investigations.

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular physiology and diagnostics.

Background:

• Many cardiovascular investigations rely on single ratio-based metrics (e.g., ejection fraction) or differences (e.g., pulse pressure).
• This singular focus can lead to the loss of significant physiological information.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and define a class of previously unrecognized, complementary physiological measures termed "lost companions."
• To highlight the additive value and physiological significance of these overlooked metrics in cardiovascular assessment.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of existing cardiovascular metrics.
• Identification of data lost through ratio or difference calculations.
• Definition of the characteristics of "lost companions" (additive value, physical dimension, physiological meaning).

Main Results:

• Single metrics in cardiovascular investigations represent an incomplete picture, discarding valuable data.
• "Lost companions" are a distinct class of physiological measures with inherent value.
• These complementary metrics offer deeper physiological understanding beyond conventional ratios or differences.

Conclusions:

• Cardiovascular research should move beyond single metrics to incorporate "lost companions" for a more comprehensive analysis.
• Physiologists are crucial in exploring and defining these complementary measures and developing alternative analytical approaches.
• Recognizing and utilizing "lost companions" can enhance diagnostic accuracy and physiological insight.