Evaluate the collective function of references cited together in a given text segment.
Classify their combined role into one of the following categories: 'method', 'background', or 'result'.

Text:The origin of the leukocytosis observed in adult patients with DKA is unknown but has been attributed, in part, to increased catecholamine release from the adrenal gland in response to stress; marked dehydration and resulting hemoconcentration may also play a role [23-24].
Category: