Loss: Using hybrid splitters / hybrid dividers / hybrid combiners, much less power is lost than if a resistive function had been used. When used as a splitter or divider the main level reduction is caused by the action of dividing the power between several ports.
Most scientific study has focused on ANP and BNP. Measurement of BNP helps doctors diagnose and treat congestive heart failure. In this condition, the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently, and the heart chambers swell with blood. As the heart cells stretch, they produce extra BNP, which pours into the bloodstream. By measuring blood levels of BNP, doctors can spot signs of congestive heart failure in its early stages, when it may be hard to distinguish from other disorders. A normal BNP level is about 98% accurate in ruling out heart failure.
The BNP test is a heart failure blood test. It measures the level of a hormone in your blood called B-type Natriuretic Peptide. Your heart's pumping chambers - the ventricles - produce extra BNP when they can't pump enough blood to meet your body's needs. So if your BNP level is high, you probably have heart failure. The higher your BNP level is at diagnosis, the worse your heart failure is likely to be.