This, the second in the Fetus and Neonate series, concentrates on breathing. The book is divided into sections on physiology, pathophysiology and clinical applications. Recent research and concepts about fetal breathing, the transitions at birth and the control of post-natal breathing are reviewed. The roles of pathophysiological processes in the aetiology of respiratory diseases are discussed and important new developments in diagnosis and treatment are reviewed. The book is written by international authorities in the field, who are active researchers in clinical and basic science as well as practitioners in this area of medicine. It will serve as a valuable source of information for those involved in research in perinatal breathing, or training in paediatrics, neonatology and obstetrics. It will also stimulate the interest of a wider range of health care professionals concerned with keeping abreast of new ideas in this important area of medicine.