Background: Low plasma vitamin A levels increases the risk of neonates' morbidity. However, the relationship between umbilical cord blood (UCB) vitamin A levels and late-preterm infant (LPI) consequences is inconclusive. Herein, we attempted to clarify the association between UCB vitamin A levels and LPI morbidities. Methods: We conducted a prospective cohort study of 208 LPI (from 34+0 to 36+6 weeks gestational age) between January 1, 2014 and June 30, 2015. UCB specimens were collected shortly after birth, and vitamin A levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Jaundice, sepsis, respiratory distress syndrome, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, necrotizing enterocolitis, and death were recorded. Results: Prevalence of low UCB vitamin A level <0.7 μmol/L was 37.5% in LPI. Cesarean section was an independent risk factor of UCB vitamin A level < 0.7 μmol/L. Nevertheless, UCB vitamin A levels did not correlate with gestational age, birthweight, and gender. UCB vitamin A level < 0.7 μmol/L was not an independent risk factor for hospitalization, oxygen supplementation, hyperbilirubinemia, sepsis and respiratory distress syndrome. However, cesarean section, gestational age < 35 weeks and birthweight < 2500 g were independent risk factors for hospitalization and RDS. In addition, cesarean section increased the risk of oxygen supplementation, while gestational age < 35 weeks increased the risk of hyperbilirubinemia. Conclusions: Cesarean section delivery is an independent risk factor of low UCB vitamin A levels, and increases the risk of RDS. On the basis of our results, there is no association between low vitamin A levels and morbidity of late-preterm infants, including hyperbilirubinemia, sepsis and respiratory distress syndrome. Trial registration: Not applicable. Background Late-preterm infants (LPI) (with gestational age between 34+0 and 36+6 weeks) is common in preterm infants. LPI has a higher morbidity of apnea, respiratory distress, kernicterus [1], and mortality rates when compared to term infants [2, 3]. Pediatricians are responsible for caring for

To investigate the effects of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) combined with cisplatin (CDDP) on the growth of human Wilms tumour (WT) SK-NEP-1 cell subcutaneous xenografts in nude mice and the possible mechanisms. Human WT SK-NEP-1 cells were subcutaneously transplanted to establish the BALB/c nude mice xenograft model. Mice were randomly divided into five groups: blank control group, adenovirus control group (NC group), STAT3 group, CDDP group and STAT3 plus CDDP group (combination group). Tumour volume and tumour weight were observed during the therapeutic process. The expression levels of STAT3, glucose regulatory protein 78 (GRP78) and BCL2-associated X protein (BAX) were evaluated by immunohistochemical analysis. Compared with the STAT3 group or CDDP group, the tumour weight and volume was significantly reduced in the combination group (P<0.05). No statistical significance was found in NC group compared with the blank control group (P > 0.05). Immunohistochemical analysis showed that STAT3, GRP78 and BAX protein levels in the combination group were significantly higher than those in STAT3 group and CDDP group (P<0.05). Exogenous STAT3 and CDDP may synergistically inhibit the xenograft tumour growth through up-regulation of BAX protein via GRP78.

Background: Neonatal hypothermia is common around the world; however, profound hypothermia is a very rare-but life-threatening-event. Clinical Findings: This was a very rare case involving a 15-day old preterm infant diagnosed with profound hypothermia (rectal temperature, 27°C) concomitant with severe coagulation dysfunction and leukopenia on admission. Primary Diagnosis: Profound hypothermia together with severe coagulopathy, leukopenia, late-onset sepsis, and pneumonia. Interventions:The patient was rewarmed slowly, with a rectal temperature rising at a rate of 0.5°C/h < R < 1°C/h. Vital signs were closely monitored. Coagulation factors were supplemented by intravenous infusion of fresh frozen plasma. Supportive treatment with intravenous infusion of immunoglobulin was provided, and antibiotics were used empirically. Nil per os and intravenous rehydration were also implemented. Outcomes: The condition of the preterm infant gradually improved and was successfully discharged. Practice Recommendations: Profound hypothermia is very rare in preterm infants. However, once it occurs, it may be concomitant with severe coagulopathy and leukopenia. Successful management involves slow rewarming, prompt supplementation of coagulation factors, empirical antibiotics, and supportive treatment.