bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Car seatbelts in pregnancy: the practice and knowledge of pregnant women remain causes for concern
Authors: Johnson Helen C. , Pring David W. 
Published: August 2005

Objective
To evaluate current knowledge and practice among pregnant women about the use of car restraint systems during pregnancy.Design
A structured questionnaire.Setting
District hospital antenatal clinic.Participants
Two hundred pregnant women attending for their routine mid‐pregnancy anomaly scan.Main outcome measures
The women were asked about seatbelt and airbag usage, source of information about restraint systems and the legal requirements and recommendations regarding car safety systems.Results
One hundred fifty‐nine women (80%) completed the questionnaire. Ninety‐eight percent wore seatbelts in the front, 68% wore seatbelts in the back of a car, 48% correctly identified where to place the seatbelt and 37% had received information on seatbelt use while pregnant. The latter were more likely to correctly position their restraints than those who had received no information (P= 0.03). Thirty‐nine percent had an airbag system fitted and one woman had de‐activated it. Fifty‐eight percent were aware seatbelt use was a legal requirement for driver and passengers when fitted.Conclusions
Many pregnant women are ignorant of the correct usage of seatbelts, their positioning and legal requirements. This puts their own wellbeing, and that of the fetus, at risk. Women should receive written instructions and advice from well informed health professionals and be encouraged always to wear a correctly positioned seatbelt. Education increases compliance and correct usage.
Preterm delivery for maternal or fetal indications: maternal morbidity, neonatal outcome and late sequelae in infants
Authors: Kurkinen‐Räty Merja , Koivisto Maila , Jouppila Pentti 
Published: August 2005

Objective
To assess maternal morbidity, and neonatal outcome and especially long term sequelae in infants born preterm due to maternal or fetal indications.Design
Analysis of retrospective cohort.Setting
Oulu University Central Hospital, Finland.Population
One hundred and three women, who were between the 24th and the 33rd week of pregnancy, delivered by caesarean delivery because of maternal or fetal indications. They were matched with 103 women who had spontaneous preterm delivery at corresponding gestational weeks between 1990–1997.Main outcome measures
Maternal morbidity, reasons for caesarean delivery, neonatal mortality and morbidity rates, and later development of the infants.Results
Pre‐eclampsia was diagnosed in 57% of the women in the indicated group and only in one woman in the control group. All infants in the indicated group and almost a third in the control group were born by caesarean birth; the main indication was threatening fetal asphyxia. There was a significant difference in neonatal mortality rates between the groups (175 vs 78 per thousand live births in the indicated vs control infants; RR 2.3, 95% CI 1.02, 4.9) and the main cause of death was respiratory insufficiency: 64% in the indicated group and 22% in the controls; RR 2.9, 95% CI 0.8, 10. Respiratory distress syndrome occurred more often (73%vs 53%, RR 1.4, 95% CI 1.1, 1.7) and it was more severe and more complicated in infants in the indicated group, compared with those in the control group. Symptomatic chronic lung disease at one year of age was more common in infants in the indicated group than in the control group (15%vs 3%; RR 4.6, 95% CI 1.4, 15.9).Conclusions
Not only the risks of neonatal mortality and morbidity but also long term pulmonary consequences, appear to be greater in infants born preterm by indicated delivery than in preterm infants born spontaneously at corresponding weeks.
Uteroplacental blood flow and placental vascular endothelial growth factor in normotensive and pre‐eclamptic pregnancy
Authors: Simmons Lisa A. , Hennessy Annemarie , Gillin Adrian G. , Jeremy Richmond W. 
Published: August 2005

Objective
To determine whether placental vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is increased in pre‐eclampsia.Design
Prospective cohort study.Setting
Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia.Sample
Eleven normotensive women and eight women with pre‐eclampsia matched for age and gestation.Methods
Uterine artery Doppler ultrasound flow velocity profiles were recorded in the third trimester and resistance index calculated as (Vs‐Vd)/Vs (Vs= peak systolic flow velocity, Vd= end diastolic flow velocity). Placental tissue at delivery was examined for VEGF distribution with avidin‐biotin‐peroxidase immunohistochemistry.Results
Uterine resistance index [median (range)] was significantly increased in pre‐eclamptic women (normotensive: 0.42 (0.36–0.51); pre‐eclampsia: 0.59 (0.40–0.75); P= 0.005). Notching of the uterine artery waveform, consistent with a high resistance circulation, was evident in early diastole in five women with pre‐eclampsia but only one normotensive woman (P= 0.013). Placental VEGF was increased in women with pre‐eclampsia in the decidual trophoblast (normotensive: 34% (4–59) cells stained for VEGF; pre‐eclampsia: 58% (15–95); P= 0.033) and in the villous syncytiotrophoblast (normotensive: VEGF count 1.4 arbitrary units (1.1–2.1); pre‐eclampsia: 1.8 arbitrary units (1.4–2.2); P= 0.041). Analysis indicated that uterine artery resistance index was directly correlated with placental VEGF staining, mean arterial pressure and birthweight.Conclusions
Abnormal uterine artery Doppler ultrasound flow velocity profiles in pre‐eclampsia indicate increased uteroplacental resistance. The associated increase in placental VEGF may represent a compensatory mechanism attempting to restore blood flow towards normal.
Should tissue from pregnancy termination and uterine evacuation routinely be examined histologically?
Authors: Heath Victoria , Chadwick Victoria , Cooke Inez , Manek Sanjiv , MacKenzie I. Z. 
Published: August 2005

Objective
To assess the value of routine histological examination of tissue samples collected at termination of pregnancy in the first trimester and emergency surgical uterine evacuation.Setting
The gynaecological department of a teaching hospital.Design
Prospective study of women attending the gynaecological department in a 12‐month period.Participants
All women undergoing a therapeutic first trimester medical or surgical abortion or an emergency surgical evacuation of a failed pregnancy, suspected incomplete spontaneous miscarriage or incomplete induced abortion.Main outcome
Association of pre‐operative clinical diagnosis and the post‐operative histological result.Results
Of 1576 women studied, the histological report confirmed that products of conception were obtained in 1465 (93%); in two women (0.13%) molar changes were reported confirming the pre‐operative diagnosis by ultrasound. Products of conception were not confirmed in the tissue specimens in 0.5% medical terminations, 5% surgical terminations, 10% evacuations following a previous evacuation, 12% evacuations for a failed pregnancy, and 19% evacuations for an incomplete miscarriage. In 87 women (6%), decidua was reported; two of these women had undergone an evacuation for an ultrasound diagnosis of spontaneous miscarriage, but in both a tubal ectopic pregnancy was subsequently diagnosed.Conclusion
There did not appear to be any obvious benefit from routine histological examination of tissue removed at termination of pregnancy or emergency uterine evacuation. The histological result was sometimes not consistent with the pre‐operative diagnosis and may result in unnecessary further investigation and treatment unless due consideration is given to the clinical presentation.
Social and behavioural influences on the uptake of hormone replacement therapy among younger women
Authors: Kuh Diana , Hardy Rebecca , Wadsworth Michael 
Published: August 2005

ObjectiveTo describe the social and behavioural influences on the uptake of hormone replacement therapy before the age of 50.DesignNationally representative birth cohort study with detailed hormone replacement therapy histories and prospective data on health, social and behavioural factors collected throughout life.SettingEngland, Scotland and Wales.PopulationGeneral population sample of 1572 women followed to the age of 50 years.Main outcome measureAge at first hormone replacement therapy useResultsBy the age of 50 years, 45% of women had tried hormone replacement therapy and one third were current users. Over two‐fifths of users had tried more than one preparation and over one quarter had episodic use. For the vast majority, prescribing conformed to current guidelines. More educated women took hormone replacement therapy for long term prevention compared with their less educated peers. Hysterectomy increased the chances of taking hormone replacement therapy, particularly where an oophorectomy had also been performed, and was associated with longer and more continuous use. Results of a Cox's proportional hazards model showed that the age at which first hormone replacement therapy is used by women who have not had a hysterectomy was influenced by previous contact with health services for menstrual disorders, previous use of oral contraception and cigarettes, past reporting of health problems and low social class. The relation between smoking and low social class with early use of hormone replacement therapy may be due to their association with early menopause.ConclusionsThe trend over the last two decades towards greater use of hormone replacement therapy has continued unabated for younger women. So far, hormone replacement therapy users in this generation have had less healthy lifestyles and social advantages than nonusers, in contrast to many older mainly American studies based on earlier generations. This may have long term implications for health and health care as the postwar baby boom generation ages.
The transplacental transfer of the macrolide antibiotics erythromycin, roxithromycin and azithromycin
Authors: Heikkinen Tuija , Laine Kari , Neuvonen Pertti J. , Ekblad Ulla 
Published: August 2005

Objective
To investigate the transplacental transfer of the macrolide antibiotics erythromycin, roxithromycin and azithromycin.Methods
Twenty‐one term placentas were obtained with maternal consent immediately after delivery and a two‐hour nonrecirculating perfusion of a single placental cotyledon was performed. Erythromycin (2 μg/mL), roxithromycin (2 μg/mL) and azithromycin (0.3 μg/mL) were infused to the maternal inflow at a constant rate, with antipyrine as a reference compound, and their appearance in the fetal circulation was followed. Drug concentrations were measured by high performance liquid chromatography for 120 min.Results
The mean transplacental transfers (TPTss) for erythromycin, roxithromycin and azithromycin were 3.0%, 4.3% and 2.6%, respectively, calculated as the ratio between the steady state concentrations in fetal venous and maternal arterial sides. Similar results were obtained when the TPT was calculated as the absolute amount of drug transferred across the placenta during 2‐hour perfusion (TPTA). No significant differences were found among the three macrolides in TPTSS (P= 0.39) or TPTA (P= 0.35). The TPTSS of erythromycin, roxithromycin and azithromycin were 41%, 35% and 32% of the freely diffusable reference compound antipyrine, respectively. Steady state was reached in 60 minutes in each perfusion indicating sufficient perfusion time.Conclusion
The limited transplacental transfer of erythromycin, roxithromycin and azithromycin suggests compromised efficacy in the treatment of fetal infections. On the other hand, the placenta seems to produce an effective barrier reducing the fetal exposure when these three macrolides are used to treat maternal infections.
Hyperhomocysteinemia and other thrombotic risk factors in women with placental vasculopathy
Authors: van der Molen E. F. , Verbruggen B. , Nováková I. , Eskes T. K. A. B. , Monnens L. A. H. , Blom H. J. 
Published: August 2005

Objective
To investigate coagulation inhibitors and abnormalities of the homocysteine metabolism, which are related to an increased thrombotic risk, as risk factors for placental vasculopathy.Design
A case‐control study comparing nonpregnant women with an obstetric history of placental vasculopathy (study group) with nonpregnant women (control group) matched for age and occupation.Setting
Obstetric outpatient clinic in the University Hospital Nijmegen.Sample
One hundred and one women in the study group and 92 women in a control group.Methods
Determinations in blood samples of homocysteine concentrations; the occurrence of 677 C→T mutation in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene; protein C activities; activated protein C resistance ratios; concentrations of free protein S antigen; antithrombin III activities; and the occurrence of factor V Leiden mutation.Results
Increased risk for placental vasculopathy was found in the study group with elevated homocysteine (odds ratio 2.28, 95% CI 1.18–4.39), MTHFR mutation (odds ratio 3.29, 95% CI 1.03–10.5), decreased activated protein C resistance ratio (odds ratio 2.46, 95% CI 1.06–5.72) and protein C (odds ratio 2.01, 95% CI 1.11–3.65). Any combination of two risk factors in the same individual resulted in a 3.40 (95% CI 1.80–6.42) higher relative risk for placental vasculopathy; combinations of three risk factors in a 6.83 (95% CI 1.52–30.7) higher risk.Conclusions
The thrombotic risk factors decreased levels of activated protein C resistance ratios and protein C, elevated homocysteine and the MTHFR 677 C→T mutation are likely risk factors for placental vasculopathy. Combinations of these risk factors in one individual resulted in synergistic increase of risk.
Consumption, Dividends, and the Cross Section of Equity Returns
Authors: BANSAL RAVI , DITTMAR ROBERT F. , LUNDBLAD CHRISTIAN T. 
Published: August 2005

ABSTRACTWe show that aggregate consumption risks embodied in cash flows can account for the puzzling differences in risk premia across book‐to‐market, momentum, and size‐sorted portfolios. The dynamics of aggregate consumption and cash flow growth rates, modeled as a vector autoregression, are used to measure the consumption beta of discounted cash flows. Differences in these cash flow betas account for more than 60% of the cross‐sectional variation in risk premia. The market price for risk in cash flows is highly significant. We argue that cash flow risk is important for interpreting differences in risk compensation across assets.
Board Seat Accumulation by Executives: A Shareholder's Perspective
Authors: PERRY TOD , PEYER URS 
Published: August 2005

ABSTRACTWhile reformers have argued that multiple directorships for executives can destroy value, we investigate firms with executives that accept an outside directorship and find negative announcement returns only when the executive's firm has greater agency problems. When fewer agency concerns exist, additional directorships relate to increased firm value. Announcement returns are also higher when executives accept an outside directorship in a financial, high‐growth, or related‐industry firm. Our results suggest that outside directorships for executives can enhance firm value, which has important implications for firms employing executives nominated for outside boards and for policy recommendations restricting the number of directorships.
Confronting the Challenges: Epidemiological Study of Female Sexual Dysfunction and the Menopause
Authors: Dennerstein Lorraine , Hayes Richard D. 
Published: August 2005

ABSTRACTIntroductionDespite rapid current and anticipated growth in the number of women who will spend a substantial portion of their life span in the postmenopausal period, the nature, incidence, and prevalence of changes in sexual function during and after the menopausal transition remain poorly characterized.AimChallenges inherent in studying the menopausal transition and proposed additions and changes that have emerged from recent consensus conferences on female sexual dysfunction are reviewed.MethodsSpecific topics related to female sexual dysfunction were presented in a Postmenopausal FSD Roundtable in which multidisciplinary international experts participated.Main Outcome MeasureExpert opinion was based on a review of evidence-based medical literature, presentation, and internal discussion.ResultsKnowledge concerning sexual function in the menopause is limited, in part, due to the difficulty in designing and conducting studies that adequately address these changes over time, and which also permit the effects of menopause to be distinguished from more general changes associated with aging. Moreover, the study of female sexual function and dysfunction is in the midst of significant transition: a tentative definition of the stages of reproductive aging and menopause has recently been advanced, and a set of comprehensive changes to the diagnostic framework that defines female sexual dysfunction is under review.ConclusionsIn spite of fast-moving changes in this field of study, it is possible to reach some tentative conclusions about how women's sexual function changes after menopause: postmenopausal women report a relatively high rate of sexual dysfunction (higher than men). There is a marked decline in sexual interest and frequency of sexual activity. This decline can be ameliorated by a number of psychosocial factors, although vaginal dryness and dyspareunia seem to be driven primarily by declining estradiol. The effects of menopause appear to be incremental and additional to those characteristic of aging.
Biological and Psychosocial Pathophysiology of Female Sexual Dysfunction During the Menopausal Transition
Authors: Graziottin Alessandra , Leiblum Sandra R. 
Published: August 2005

ABSTRACTIntroductionAlthough increasing age is a primary determinant of reduced sexual function in older women, hormonal changes may be significant contributors to female (and couples’) sexual dysfunction.AimTo analyze the most relevant biological, psychosexual, and/or contextual factors that influence changes in women's sexuality during and after menopause.MethodsA Postmenopausal FSD Roundtable consisting of multidicsiplinary international experts was convened to review specific issues related to postmenopausal women and sexual dysfunction.Main Outcome MeasureExpert opinion was based on a review of evidence-based medical literature, presentation, and internal discussion.ResultsMenopause is associated with physiological and psychological changes that influence sexuality: the primary biological change is a decrease in circulating estrogen levels. Estrogen deficiency initially accounts for irregular menstruation and diminished vaginal lubrication. Continual estrogen loss is associated with changes in the vascular, muscular, and urogenital systems, and also alterations in mood, sleep, and cognitive functioning, influencing sexual function both directly and indirectly. The age-dependent decline in testosterone and androgen function, starting in the early 20s, may precipitate or exacerbate aspects of female sexual dysfunction; these effects are most pronounced following bilateral ovariectomy and consequent loss of 50% or more total testosterone. The contribution of progestogens to sexual health and variability in the effects of specific progestogens are being increasingly appreciated. Comorbidities, influenced by loss of sexual hormones, between mood and desire disorders and urogenital and sexual pain disorders are common and remain frequently overlooked in clinical practice. Physical and psychosexual changes may contribute to lower self-esteem, and diminished sexual responsiveness and sexual desire. Nonhormonal factors that affect sexuality are health status and current medication use, changes in or dissatisfaction with partner, partner's health and/or sexual problems, and socioeconomic status.ConclusionDetermination of the best way to provide optimal management of sexual dysfunction associated with menopause requires additional controlled studies.
HOW WELL DOES THE 9‐POINT HEDONIC SCALE PREDICT PURCHASE FREQUENCY?
Authors: ROSAS‐NEXTICAPA M. , ANGULO O. , O'MAHONY M. 
Published: August 2005

ABSTRACT One hundred and one consumers assessed three strawberry‐flavored yogurts, using the 9‐point hedonic scale and a purchase intent scale, both blind and with their appropriate cartons. They were then monitored for a year, to determine whether their ratings had any predictive value for their purchase behavior. It was found that the highest rated yogurts tended to be the ones that were purchased during the year. Any correspondence between rank order of rating and of purchase frequency was negligible. Predictions were better when the yogurts were rated with their cartons. The ratings were a better predictor of purchase frequency than price. Various consistency measures were also made.
THOUGHTS ON SUBJECTIVE MEASUREMENT, SENSORY METRICS AND USEFULNESS OF OUTCOMES
Authors: MOSKOWITZ HOWARD R. 
Published: August 2005

ABSTRACT This note presents a discussion of direct scaling versus paired comparison from the viewpoint of historical, design, field, analytical and interpretation issues. A lot of sensory and consumer research use procedures such as direct measurement, which in turn can lead to major development‐relevant insights. At the same time, other research with the same objectives uses choice methods, which in the author's mind do not, and cannot, lead to these desired development‐relevant insights. It is important to differentiate between the two types of approaches and understand their pros and cons, as well as their intellectual histories. Simply choosing a measurement procedure by the diktat of management or of current fads may actually be counterproductive to the specific task in particular, and to the field of sensory research in general.
GAUGE THEORIES AS A GEOMETRICAL ISSUE OF A KALUZA–KLEIN FRAMEWORK
Authors: CIANFRANI FRANCESCO , MARROCCO ANDREA , MONTANI GIOVANNI 
Published: August 2005

We present a geometrical unification theory in a Kaluza–Klein approach that achieve the geometrization of a generic gauge theory bosonic component. We show how it is possible to derive gauge charge conservation from the invariance of the model under extra-dimensional translations and to geometrize gauge connections for spinors, in order to make possible to introducing matter just through free spinorial fields. Then we present the applications to (i) a pentadimensional manifold V4 ⊗ S1 so reproducing the original Kaluza–Klein theory with some extensions related to the rule of the scalar field contained in the metric and to the introduction of matter through spinors with a phase dependance from the fifth coordinate, (ii) a seven-dimensional manifold V4 ⊗ S1 ⊗ S2, in which we geometrize the electroweak model by introducing two spinors for every leptonic family and quark generation and a scalar field with two components with opposite hypercharge responsible for spontaneous symmetry breaking.