Association of Rho-kinase Gene Polymorphisms with Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Preterm Neonates.

Background: Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) of the newborn is one of the most common causes of morbidity and mortality in preterm infants. Our objective was to determine the association between Rho-kinase (ROCK1 and ROCK2) gene polymorphisms and RDS in preterm neonates.

Methods: A total of 193 preterm infants with RDS and 186 preterm infants without respiratory problems were included in this study.

Effects of red cell transfusion on cardiac output and perfusion index in preterm infants.

Objective/aim: The present investigation was designed to study the effect of blood transfusion on cardiac output and perfusion index. The aim was to demonstrate a relationship between hematocrit, lactate, cardiac output and perfusion index in anemic preterm infants and to investigate significant changes in these parameters induced by RBC transfusion.

Methods: Anemic infants who were under 35 weeks of gestational age (GA) and were in a stable clinical condition without respiratory or cardiac problems, signs of sepsis, or renal disease at the time of investigation were enrolled in the study.