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Fetal fibronectin (FFN) is a high-molecular-weight glycoprotein that can be found in fetal connective tissue, placenta, and amniotic fluid. FFN is measurable in cervicovaginal secretions early in pregnancy and at term, but is rarely detectable between 21 and 37 weeks gestation in normal pregnancies that are delivered at term. Its detection during this time period is associated with preterm labor/delivery. Since the symptoms of preterm labor are often vague, an accurate diagnosis of preterm labor is often difficult to make. According to the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG), "Fetal fibronectin testing may be useful in women with symptoms of preterm labor to identify those with negative values and a reduced risk of preterm birth, thereby avoiding unnecessary intervention."*
The following were among the resources reviewed and considered in developing this policy. By reviewing and considering the resources, CareFirst does not in any way endorse the contents thereof nor assume any liability or responsibility in connection therewith. The opinions and conclusions of the authors of these resources are their own, and may or may not be in agreement with those of CareFirst.
American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (2003). Management of Preterm Labor, ACOG Practice Bulletin Number 43, May 2003.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. (2000, August 18). Fetal Fibronectin Enzyme Immunoassay (Medical Policy 2.04.03). Chicago: Author.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. (1998, November 16). Fetal Fibronectin Enzyme Immunoassay (Medical Policy 2.04.03). Chicago: Author.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. (1997, August). TEC assessment: Fetal Fibronectin Enzyme Immunoassay. Technology Evaluation Center Assessments, 12(16), 1-40.
Goldenberg, R.L., Klebanoff, M., Carey, J.C., MacPherson, C., Leveno, K.J., Moawad, A.H., Sibai, B., Heine, R.P., Ernest, J.M., Dombrowski, M.P., Miodovnik, M., Wapner, R.J., Iams, J.D., Langer, O., O'Sullivan, M.J. & Roberts, J.M. (2000). American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 183(2), 469-75.
Iams, J.D., Goldenberg, R.L., Mercer, B.M., Moawad, A.H., Meis, P.J., Das, A.F., Caritas, S.N., Miodovnik, M., Menard, M.K., Thurnau, G.R., Dombrowski, M.P. & Roberts, J.H. The preterm prediction study: can low risk women destined for spontaneous preterm birth be identified? American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 184(4), 652-5.
Lu, G.C., Goldenberg, R.L., Cliver, S.P., Kreaden, U.S., Andrews, W.W. (2001). Vaginal fetal fibronectin levels and spontaneous preterm birth in symptomatic women. Obstetrics and Gynecology, 97(2), 225-8.
Winning four Tony Awards in 2006 and currently on tour, Jersey Boys is a kind of retro jukebox musical based on the lives of 1960s most successful rock 'n roll groups, Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons (a popular Italian-American band of musicians/singers from New Jersey in the 60s). Now Jersey Boys the musical tells or rather shows how the band rose to fame. The singers portraying the original boys sound exactly like the singers. This is further made real with the help of accompanying technology-enhanced band. Being a well crafted fast moving show, the Jersey Boys tickets are going to be sold out pretty soon.
What makes Rain The Beatles Experience so different from other Beatles' tribute bands is their devotion to Beatles music, as the band is known for perfectly performing those complex studio tracks that even Beatles never performed live at their concerts. Rain kicked off their U.S tour on December 10, 2008 as they performed in Daytona, Ohio at the Victoria Theatre. On Friday, June 12, 2009 Rain - The Beatles Experience hits New Jersey Performing Arts Center at 7:30 pm. The band would be performing live at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center on June 13 and June 14, 2009 as well.
Rascal Flatts kicked off their still feels good tour in 2007, and ended this success story in 2008. On December 3, 2008 Faith Hill and Rascals Flatts in New York lighted the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center on Wednesday. Apart from Hill and Flatts, Tony Bennett, Neil Boyd, Harry Connick Jr., Rosie O'Donnell and Beyonce and Solange Knowles also performed there. Rascal Flatts are currently on their Bob That Head Tour that kicked off in 2008 and is extended into 2009. Rascal Flatts will be hitting New York's Madison Square Garden on February 12, 2009 and Rochester on February, 14.
If music is your thing, you should head to Bass Concert Hall in Austin. Continuing its tradition of bringing top notch acts from around the world, Bass Concert Hall is featuring yet another exciting assortment of entertainment events to give keen pleasure to music aficionados and fun lovers. You'll be delighted to see your favorite artists performing LIVE in Austin. No matter what you taste in music is, Bass Concert Hall will satisfy your craving as it bustles with pop, rock, punk, indie, classic and other music genres. So, plan a night out, snatch up your Bass Concert Hall Tickets and take in the world's best music and entertainment at large!
Music lovers and sports aficionados be up to grab your Dodger Stadium Tickets since the venue is bringing a yet another exciting assortment of entertainment and sports events. The Stadium is going to pack with crowds, thrills and chills again! People can not wait to see their favorite events and are rushing towards Dodger Stadium. If you have not bought your tickets as yet, snatch up them now. There's sure going to be fun, excitement and anticipation that you can not afford to miss out. Trust us, tickets to the events scheduled at Dodger Stadium are worth spending bucks on!
As with every team, the Chicago white Sox are going through a slump period at this point in time. The 2008 Chicago White Sox season did not even start very well, who opened against the American League champions, C.C. Sabathia, in March. A very important reason for the lacking performance is the absence of a family feeling in the team, as well as a lack of common direction and common goals for the players. Despite abundant talent on the 25-player roster of the team, the players need to learn to believe in themselves and ignore what people are saying.
Billy Elliot is a multi awarded winning musical based on the hit movie of the same name. The story revolves around a young boy's passion of dance and how he secretly fulfills it. The play is set in 1984/85 in the North East of England during the time wrought by the strife caused by the coal miners' strike. Billy Eliot the musical is an inspirational play presented beautifully with combined efforts of its award winning creative team and an outstanding music by Sir Elton John. Since opening in 2005 in London, Billy Eliot Tickets have a record of selling out pretty fast.
Keith Urban started his musical journey in Australia but soon made name all over the world as one of the most talented and popular country music artists of these times. A singer, songwriter and instrumentalist; Keith Urban is the man of many talents. His timeless music has earned him several awards and recognitions including the prestigious Grammy and American Country Music Awards. He also made headlines with his much talked about marriage with Nicole Kidman and drug-addiction. However, more than anything else, his sweet vocals, unique music and superb songwriting skills make him the undisputed king of today's country music scene. So while the fans are going crazy to get hold of Keith Urban Tickets, we suggest you to be hurry and reserve the best ones for yourself.
The country music lovers all over the United States must be familiar with Grand Ole Opry. This weekly live radio program has provided countless wonderful country music presentations since 1925 when it first went on-air. The music show is broadcasted live through radio in Nashville and beyond. However, the real charm lies in attending the concert exclusively at Grand Ole Opry House, from where it is broadcasted live. So while the likes of Carrie Underwood, Trace Adkins, Martina McBride, Vince Gill, Brad Paisley, Dierks Bentley, Marty Stuart, Ricky Skaggs, Mel Tillis and many other superb country music acts grace the stage of Grand Ole Opry off and on, you should book the Grand Ole Opry Tickets in order to enjoy the pleasures of their soulful music.
Monster Jam Trucks is a name synonymous to extreme level excitement in the world of Sports Entertainment. One may think that watching a show of several large size automobiles is no such adventure as such, but those who attend Monster Jam Trucks shows on regular basis can tell you the level of excitement these shows bring. Monster Jam shows present destruction of this kind as a huge truck will crush smaller vehicles under its huge tires. Not only this, these giant trucks can break any obstacle and man-made barriers in no time. So get ready to experience this motorized professional wrestling as Monster Jam Trucks Tickets is the full-on entertainment. Grab your Monster Jam Trucks tickets now and make your way to this exciting event.
Are you a fan of Minnesota Twins? If yes, then be prepared for a new season of thrill, excitement, shocks and surprises as The Twinkies are ready to add a new chapter in franchise’s history. Playing for the Central Division of the American League, this Baseball team is famous for its well-planned games, historic winds and loyal fan base. These three times World Series winner enjoy great support at Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome where they play their home games. Their hard-core fans also make sure to support them in away games and they grab the tickets as soon as they go on sale. Same goes for this season as the good form of Minnesota Twins is encouraging their fans to come and see their games. If you don’t want to get disappointed at the ticket window, then book your Minnesota Twins Tickets before their fans grab them all!
In order to get a hold of NHL Eastern Conference Quarterfinals: Philadelphia Flyers Tickets, you should look in the right places. The best method of going about this is to do some research online. There are many organizations that sell these tickets online, as they endeavor to boost sales by selling cheaper tickets. Lower cost is almost always a characteristic of online sales. You can also get to know about other outlets where you can get your NHL Eastern Conference Quarterfinals: Philadelphia Flyers Tickets. These are certainly worth checking out. You can compare the prices of these tickets and go for the one that suits your pocket.
The New York Knicks who play professional basketball are a well-known and well-liked team that has been around for a long time. The New York Knicks’ team wears their popular white jerseys that many fans wear too. This is how they support their favourite team. Many fans make it a point to purchase and wear New York Knicks Jersey while they are supporting their teams at games. Fans do not simply wear a new york knicks jersey to support their favorite team. Wearing this jersey is a matter of pride for a fan.
Golf is an interesting sport that is followed by many internationally. The PGA is indeed one of the most prestigious golf championships that features great names in golf. Many people follow this event that is hosted on a regular basis. You can get your tickets to this event if you want to see your stars perform live. You can get your PGA Championship Tickets from certain locations that are well known for their sale. Indeed, you can also get your hands on discount PGA Championship tickets. Don’t miss out on an opportunity to do so. You can have a great time viewing your stars performing right before you.
A magnificent live venue located in Detroit, Fisher Theatre is known to bring the biggest Broadway blockbusters to the Michigan. Opened in November 11, 1928, this well-facilitated venue has been providing must-see presentations from the past eighty years. Once a popular movie and vaudeville house, the name of Fisher Theatre is now synonymous to world-class plays, drama and musicals. The house has hosted premiers of Fiddler on the Roof, Hello Dolly, Golden Boy, Sweet Charity and also staged countless Broadway hits. So while everyone is booking Fisher Theatre Tickets for Grease, Jersey Boys, Phantom Of The Opera and other events; you should reserve your seats by booking discounted tickets for this world-class theatre facility.
Get ready to catch an excitement filled game as Florida Panthers are all set to achieve new feats in their upcoming games. Representing the Southeast Division of the Eastern Conference of NHL, the Panthers are based in Sunrise, Florida. They have been playing in 1993 and enjoy huge local fan base. During their home games, the Bank Atlantic Center can be seen resounded with cheers and applause. Although, they have not won any Stanley Cup as yet, but their growing popularity and performance hint that they will soon emerge big in their league. You can watch their games by booking Florida Panthers Tickets as the Panthers are ready for do-or-die!
Billy Elliot is a multi awarded winning musical based on the hit movie of the same name. The story revolves around a young boy’s passion of dance and how he secretly fulfills it. The play is set in 1984/85 in the North East of England during the time wrought by the strife caused by the coal miners’ strike. Billy Eliot the musical is an inspirational play presented beautifully with combined efforts of its award winning creative team and an outstanding music by Sir Elton John. Since opening in 2005 in London, Billy Eliot Tickets have a record of selling out pretty fast.
The craze of NCAA games is on and the Tigers are out in the field to clinch their share of glory. Hailing from the University of Missouri, Missouri Tigers are one of the most popular athletic teams of Big 12 Conference. They take part in different competitions of men’s and women’s sports, including football, basketball, baseball, cross country, track and field, soccer, softball, golf, volleyball, gymnastics and others. In football, the Tigers are the only NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision program in Missouri. They enjoy a wide fan base in and outside Columbia and their supporters make it a point to cheer them live during important games. We offer Missouri Tigers Games Tickets for all their crazy fans so that they can support them live from the field!
The pride of Philadelphia rests with the Philadelphia Flyers who have commanded the love and respect from their fans and critics alike. Founded in 1967, the Philadelphia Flyers were the first ever non Original 6 teams to win the Stanley Cup in 1974 and then again in 1975. Flyers also maintain a highest all time winning percentage which puts the efforts of the rest of the teams to shame with a mighty impressive .578 which is second only to Montreal Canadiens'. Catch Philadelphia’s most popular team by grabbing your Flyers Tickets as soon as possible.
Have you ever come across a striking brown colored logo VT with red lining and wondered what it stood for? Well the insignia is an abbreviation of The Virginia Tech Hokies, the teams that signify Virginia Tech in college athletics. The many sports that fall under Virginia Tech’s men’s sports are wrestling, Cricket, basketball, soccer, tennis, football, baseball, track and field and golf amongst others. The sports for women encompass swimming, lacrosse, cross country, women’s basketball, softball and soccer. Hokies is the name given to Virginia Tech’s sports teams while its mascot is HokieBird. You surely wouldn’t be disappointed when you get Virginia Tech Hokies Tickets!
One of the most famous hard rock bands in the world, Metallica, is on the move with their new concert tour that sure is a treat of all of the band’s diehard fans as well as the fans of hard rock music. Formed back in 1981, Metallica rose to success in 1986 following the release of their album titled Master of Puppets. So far Metallica has released total of 9 studio albums, with the recent one being Death Magnet, released last year. Since currently the band is on its Concert Tour, don’t miss out on the thrill and excitement that their concert has to offer and get your cheap Metallic tour Tickets from here!
God of Carnage is a ‘Scrabously funny’ play written by Yasmina Reza. This is a Tony award winning play originally written and performed in French. The play was later on translated in English by Christopher Hampton and was performed on March 25, 2008. This play is an exaggerated comedy based on a simple everyday situation. The play is set between the two couples of parents trying to resolve the fight between their children as one kid has broke other kid’s teeth. The Play starts as a civil conversation and ends up into a chaotic yet hilarious brawl. The Play is now running at New York City! To be at the God Of Carnage NYC Show get your bookings in advance!
The popular American stand-up comedian and actor, Bob Newhart, is most acknowledged for his deadpan delivery and a slight stammer. He was born on September 5, 1929, in Oak Park, Illinois, USA, with the birth name George Robert Newhart. Newhart came to the lime-light when he played the role of a psychologist, called Dr. Robert "Bob" Hartley on the 1970s sitcom - The Bob Newhart Show and also played the role of an innkeeper, called Dick Loudon on the 1980s sitcom - Newhart. He has also appeared in many films, such as Catch-22, and Elf. Now the man will shortly be performing live so grab your Bob Newhart Show Tickets today and get ready for this most exciting event!
Draped in Creole, purple, gold and white is the team of New Orleans Hornet. Owned by George Shinn and Gary Chouest, New Orleans Hornets is a Louisiana based professional basketball team. It was founded in 1988 and has been renamed many a times. Firstly in 2002 when it became New Orleans Hornets from Charlotte Hornets, then in 2005 it became New Orleans/Oklahoma City Hornets and then finally in 2007 as the New Orleans Hornets. In 2008, the team managed to win its first major title, the Division Championship cup and is looking great for the current season too. Get New Orleans Hornets Tickets and catch all the action live!
The event, which is an annual benefit for the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, situated in Springfield, is the ‘soon going to be’ nationally televised doubleheader, including the four premier programs of the nation that tipped off the 2009-10 college basketball season. The game, in which Arkansas would be in opposition to Louisville and Kansas would take on Memphis, will be hosted by the Scottrade Center on the 17th of November. If you are a basketball fan too, then you better book your Hall of Fame Showcase: Kansas Tickets now to re-live the sports spirit!
Bored with routine chart-busters? Watch Memphis-The Musical for a different experience. It is a thrilling theatrical event infusing the roots of rock with Broadway splendor. The chart-toper Memphis is based on a story of two young singers who introduce a new blend of music that transcends race lines. Their soulful music leads to the Golden Era of early rock & roll where loyalty of both is tested. With heart-felt story, hit scores and mind-blasting performances - Memphis is worth a watch. For all those desiring to experience exuberance and emotions, Memphis The Musical is a theater presentation they must watch. Get hold of Memphis The Musical Tickets and be dazzled by the beauty and the controversy of a defining time of the music history.
The hit comedy duo from the 70s & 80s Richard Cheech Marin & Tommy Chong, got back together after 25 years for their Light Up America tour in 2008. This reunion tour continues this year as well with performances in several cities around the US. Over the span of their career before the split Cheech & Chong had released eight feature films and nine comedy albums. Among their famous comedy routines are “Earache My Eye”, “Santa Claus and His Old Lady”, “Basketball Jones”, and “Sister Mary Elephant”. For all their fans out there, the Cheech Chong Saratoga is an event not to be missed.
Jersey Boys has been rated as one of the most scintillating and aspiring musicals to hit the international market. The musical is based upon the life and music history of the famous and legendary rock and roll band called the Four Seasons. The music of the band had inspired a nation during the 1960’s. And the agenda of the production house is to being back that special magic and love for the music and lyrics. Jersey Boys Toronto Center for the Arts will be one of the venues of the musical. Jersey Boys Toronto ON is one of the places on the tour during the upcoming year.
If you are fond of country music with unique fusion of hard charging pop then Kenny Chesney must be your first choice in the world of melodies and music. He blends the two in such a distinctive manner that his music mesmerizes the listeners and has propelled him to the top of the charts. You will let go all your worries’ in his robust ballads such as “You Had Me at Hello” and hit singles like “I Lost It.” Don’t miss to catch glimpse of his famous ballads and signature cowboy hat during Kenny Chessneys tour to you town. Buy your Kenny Chesney’s Tour tickets now!!!
From August 31st, the fourth Grand Slam will take place at Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. The venue is Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, where it has been held since 1978. The tournament was first conducted in 1881. At that time, it was known as the U.S. National Championship. The tournament is held at the end of August and at the start of September, which encompasses five different events. The events are single matches for men and women, double matches for men and women and then mixed double events. Events are also there for special people using wheel chairs. Go for US Open Live Tickets and be prepared for the best of live sports action!
The success story of U2 is not alien to anyone. This is unarguably the best rock band in the world that has redefined terms like success and stardom with their undefeatable musical journey. From starting as a Dublin-based budding band of secondary school students in 1976 to becoming one of the major music sensations of all times, the profile of U2 Tickets is full of awards, record sales, critical acclaim and unmatchable fan following. Their induction in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2005, the clean-sweep act at the Grammy awards in 2006 where they won award for all their five nominations, seventeen other Grammies and sell-out lie concerts all over the world are just a few examples of U2 mania. Now when the fabulous quartet of Bono, The Edge, Adam Clayton and Larry Mullen, Jr. are ready to groove their fans through another tour, you should not miss the opportunity to watch the awesome foursome live in action. So go for U2 and enjoy their energetic live performance!
His distinctive and husky voice has made him one of the most celebrated singers of England. His worldwide fame is also noteworthy as he has sold over 30 million albums worldwide. He is none other than Chris Rea. Known as one of the best selling artists of these times, Chris Rea has delivered many unforgettable hits in his career spanning over 3 decades. Now you can catch the essence of his music LIVE and EXCLUSIVE as he is ready for an exciting concert tour. So gear up for the show and grab your Chris Rea Tickets right here right now!
Headlining the baseball craze in Cincinnati, Ohio; Cincinnati Reds are truly the superstars of the region. The huge attendance during their home games at Great American Ball Park is enough proof of this. The franchise was originated in 1882 and won five World Series titles in 1919, 1940, 1975, 1976 and 1990. However, the two back to back world titles in 1975 and 1976 led the franchise to become the ultimate champs of MLB. Now, the Reds are among hottest teams of Central Division of the National League, so make sure to book Cincinnati Reds Tickets and be a part of their adventure packed games!
The long awaited game of Baltimore Orioles is on again as Nick Markakis and Adam Jones will lead the team to the 2009 season, all set to be champions this time. The team will be playing against a huge lot of games against many famous teams at their home stadium, Oriole Park at Camden Yards in Baltimore, Maryland. Baltimore Orioles, nick named as O’s will need the support of its fans throughout the season. So grab the Baltimore Orioles Tickets to the O’s games to cheer the team up and experience a life time fun yourself. The game will be a super one for all the baseball lovers.
The conclusion of another spectacular season heralds the arrival of two months of intensive Spring Training. And for fans of Major League Baseball outfit Milwaukee Brewers, Spring Training affords a chance to bask in the Phoenix sun in Maryvale Stadium with the Brew Crew. Welcoming the new groundbreaking talent as it merges with the old pros flexing their muscles is a rich tradition for Brewers fans. Milwaukee Brewers Cactus League games are religiously followed. Armed with their baseball mitts & Spring Training: Milwaukee Brewers Tickets fans will be treated to another sterling exhibition this spring.
Know What? Famous British band Muse is stopping in Philadelphia as part of their new concert tour in the support of their album, The Resistance. Comprising of the exploding talents of Matthew Bellamy, Christopher Wolstenholme and Dominic Howard; Muse is one of the best alternative rock bands of today. They made their debut in 2006 with an album called Showbiz. After that, they came up with many hit albums and gates-shattering live shows. The current tour started on November 4, 2009 at Sheffield Arena will finish with a two night stand at London's O2 Arena. They will stop by some cities in USA as well including Philadelphia. This will be one worth-attending concert. So make sure you book Muse Philadelphia Tickets on time and watch their live lively act!
Throw in a bagful of twists, an enduring friendship, & a backdrop of the generation’s most beloved tale, & you get the beautiful “Wicked”.Based on Gregory Maguire’s bestseller,the musical has class stamped all over it. Stephen Schwartz’s Tony-winning songs breathe life into a meandering friendship between future Wicked Witch of the West, Elphaba, & The Good Witch of the North, Glinda, in the land of Oz. References to the Wizard add spice to the sub-plots of deceit, jealousy & faithfulness. The tale’s irresistible appeal will give fans with Wicked Houston Tickets one unforgettable experience this July.
The Owl City’s ‘FireFlies’ are now landing the grounds of Boston. The biggest rage of alternative year the year is performing the songs of their latest album Ocean Eyes. This American synthpop musician has topped the billboard chart with his Fireflies single along with many other charts. His other famous singles include "Hot Air Balloon”, "Strawberry Avalanche”,"Sunburn”, "Vanilla Twilight" and “Umbrella Beach". Adam Young the showman of the band has released two studio albums. His debut album was ‘Maybe I'm Dreaming’ released in 2008. To watch him perform live and exclusive don’t forget to get the Owl City Boston Tickets now! |