2.1 Statistical analyses
Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software (ver. 21.0; IBM,
Chicago, IL, USA). Continuous variables are expressed as medians
(minimum–maximum) and categorical variables as values and percentages.
Categorical data were compared using chi-square tests. For non-normally
distributed data, the Mann–Whitney U test was used to determine whether
or not differences between groups were statistically significant.
Spearman’s method was used to evaluate correlations between the IPF and
other blood parameters if variables were not normally distributed. The
most discriminating biomarkers for acute bronchiolitis were identified
by drawing receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves for each
biomarker, and calculating sensitivity and specificity, as well as
positive and negative predictive values. Areas under the curves (AUCs)
for IPF, PLT, MPV, PDW, and white blood cell count (WBC) were evaluated
for the acute bronchiolitis versus the control group. Logistic
regression was used to identify associated factors and to calculate odds
ratios and 95% confidence intervals. A p -value < 0.05
was considered statistically significant.