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Training Webinar: Fast Track RTL Debug with the Verisium Debug Python App Store

As a verification engineer, you’re surely looking for ways to automate the debugging process. Have you developed your own scripts to ease specific debugging steps that tools don’t offer? Working with scripts locally and manually is challenging—so is reusing and organizing them. What if there was a way to create your own app with the required functionality and register it with the tool? The answer to that question is “Yes!” The Verisium Debug Python App Store lets you instantly add additional features and capabilities to your Verisium Debug Application using Python Apps that interact with Verisium Debug via the Python API. Join me, Principal Education Application Engineer Bhairava Prasad, for this Training Webinar and discover the Verisium Debug Python App Store. The app store allows you to search for existing apps, learn about them, install or uninstall them, and even customize existing apps. Date and Time Wednesday, November 20, 2024 07:00 PST San Jose / 10:00 EST New York / 15:00 GMT London / 16:00 CET Munich / 17:00 IST Jerusalem / 20:30 IST Bangalore / 23:00 CST Beijing REGISTER To register for this webinar, sign in with your Cadence Support account (email ID and password) to log in to the Learning and Support System*. Then select Enroll to register for the session. Once registered, you’ll receive a confirmation email containing all login details. A quick reminder: If you haven’t received a registration confirmation within one hour of registering, please check your spam folder and ensure your pop-up blockers are off and cookies are enabled. For issues with registration or other inquiries, reach out to eur_training_webinars@cadence.com . Like this topic? Take this opportunity and register for the free online course related to this webinar topic: Verisium Debug Training To view our complete training offerings, visit the Cadence Training website Want to share this and other great Cadence learning opportunities with someone else? Tell them to subscribe . Hungry for Training? Choose the Cadence Training Menu that’s right for you. Related Courses Xcelium Simulator Training Course | Cadence Related Blogs Unveiling the Capabilities of Verisium Manager for Optimized Operations - Verification - Cadence Blogs - Cadence Community Verisium SimAI: SoC Verification with Unprecedented Coverage Maximization - Corporate News - Cadence Blogs - Cadence Community Verisium SimAI: Maximizing Coverage, Minimizing Bugs, Unlocking Peak Throughput - Verification - Cadence Blogs - Cadence Community Related Training Bytes Introducing Verisium Debug (Video) (cadence.com) Introduction to UVM Debug of Verisium Debug (Video) (cadence.com) Verisium Debug Customized Apps with Python API Please see course learning maps a visual representation of courses and course relationships. Regional course catalogs may be viewed here . *If you don’t have a Cadence Support account, go to Cadence User Registration and complete the requested information. Or visit Registration Help .




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X-FAB's Innovative Communication and Automotive Designs: Powered by Cadence EMX Planar 3D Solver

Using the EMX solver, X-FAB design engineers can efficiently develop next-generation RF technology for the latest communication standards (including sub-6GHz 5G, mmWave, UWB, etc.), which are enabling technologies for communications and electric vehicle (EV) wireless applications. (read more)




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Technical Webinar: A Beginner’s Guide to RTL-to-GDSII Front-End Flow

In this training webinar, we explore the concepts of RTL design, design verification, and coverage analysis while unveiling the exciting world of front-end design flow. We will guide you through the essential steps in creating integrated circuits, the building blocks of modern electronics.

We’ll break down the process into manageable stages, from defining the chip’s functionality to its physical realization. We’ll investigate the front-end part of the RTL-to-GDSII flow—from specification to functional verification and design coverage—and explore:

  • Key concepts of specifying chip behavior and performance
  • How to translate ideas into a digital blueprint and transform that into a design
  • How to ensure your design is free of errors

This webinar provides practical knowledge, making it your gateway to understanding the magic behind RTL-to-GDSII front-end design flow.

When Is the Webinar?

Date and Time

Wednesday, September 18, 2024
07:00 PDT San Jose / 10:00 EDT New York / 15:00 BST London / 16:00 CEST Munich / 17:00 IDT Jerusalem / 19:30 IST Bangalore / 22:00 CST Beijing 

REGISTER

To register for this webinar, sign in with your Cadence Support account (email ID and password) to log in to the Learning and Support System.

Then select Enroll to register for the session. Once registered, you’ll receive a confirmation email containing all login details.

If you don’t have a Cadence Support account, go to Cadence User Registration and complete the requested information. Or visit Registration Help.

For inquiries or issues with registration, reach out to eur_training@cadence.com.

For inquiries or issues with registration, reach out to eur_training@cadence.com.

To view our complete training offerings, visit the Cadence Training website.

Want to share this and other great Cadence learning opportunities with someone else? Tell them to subscribe.

Want to Learn More?

This link gives you more information about the related training course and a link to enroll:

Cadence RTL-to-GDSII Flow Training

The course includes slides with audio and downloadable laboratory exercises designed to emphasize the topics covered in the lecture. There is also a Digital Badge available for the training.

 

The online class is free for all Cadence customers with a Cadence Learning and Support Portal account. For instructor-led training sessions "Live" or "Blended" please contact Cadence Training.

Also, take this opportunity to register for the free Online Trainings related to this webinar topic.

Cadence RTL-to-GDSII Flow

Xcelium Simulator

Verilog Language and Application

Xcelium Integrated Coverage

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Cadence Support - A Round-the-Clock Problem Solver, Webinar Recording Available!




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Here Is the Recording of the RTL-to-GDSII Flow FrontEnd Webinar!

In this recent Training Webinar, we explore the concepts of RTL design, design verification, and coverage analysis while unveiling the exciting world of front-end design flow by guiding you through essential steps involved in creating integrated circuits—the building blocks of modern electronics.

We’ll break down the process into manageable stages, from defining the chip’s functionality to its physical realization. We’ll investigate the front-end part of the RTL-to-GDSII flow—from specification to functional verification and design coverage—and explore:

  • Key concepts of specifying chip behavior and performance
  • How to translate ideas into a digital blueprint and transform that into a design
  • How to ensure your design is free of errors

Watch the Training Webinar recording from September 18, 2024: A Beginner’s Guide to RTL-to-GDSII Front-End Flow

Want to Learn More?

This link gives you more information about this RTL-to-GDSII Flow, the related training course, and a link to enroll:

Cadence RTL-to-GDSII Flow Training

The course includes slides with audio and downloadable laboratory exercises designed to emphasize the topics covered in the lecture. There is also a Digital Badge available for the training.

 Also, take this opportunity to register for the free Online Training related to this Webinar Topic.

Cadence RTL-to-GDSII Flow

Xcelium Simulator

Verilog Language and Application

Learning Maps

The online class is free for all Cadence customers with a Cadence Learning and Support Portal account. For instructor-led training sessions "Live" or "Blended" please contact Cadence Training.

Related Training Bytes

What is RTL Coding In VLSI Design?

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What Is Logic Equivalence Checking in VLSI Design?

What Is DFT in VLSI Design?

What is Digital Implementation?

What is Power Planning?

What are DRC and LVS in Physical Verification?

What are On-Chip Variations?

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Did You Miss the RTL-to-GDSII Webinar? No Worries, the Recording Is Available!

Training Insights – Why Is RTL Translated into Gate-Level Netlist?

Training Bytes: They May Be Shorter, But the Impact Is Stronger!

Cadence Support - A Round-the-Clock Problem Solver, Webinar Recording Available!




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East-West Center to Launch #galswithLEI Global Webinar Series

East-West Center to Launch #galswithLEI Global Webinar Series East-West Center to Launch #galswithLEI Global Webinar Series
palmaj

News Release

Explore

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Finding the Narrow Way to Heaven (Matthew 7:13-27)

Check here each week to keep up with the latest from John MacArthur's pulpit at Grace Community Church.




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The Warming Arctic Requires Precautionary Management

The Warming Arctic Requires Precautionary Management The Warming Arctic Requires Precautionary Management

stanfords

Web Article

Recent online articles and analysis that have been published on the East-West Center website.

Explore

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Recent online articles and analysis that have been published on the East-West Center website.

Explore




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Pacific Climate Leaders Caution Media Against ‘Drowning Islands’ Narrative

Pacific Climate Leaders Caution Media Against ‘Drowning Islands’ Narrative Pacific Climate Leaders Caution Media Against ‘Drowning Islands’ Narrative
brophyc Wed, 07/06/2022 - 16:38

East-West Wire

Tagline
News, Commentary, and Analysis
East-West Wire

The East-West Wire is a news, commentary, and analysis service provided by the East-West Center in Honolulu. Any part or all of the Wire content may be used by media with attribution to the East-West Center or the person quoted. To receive East-West Center Wire media releases via email, subscribe here.

For links to all East-West Center media programs, fellowships and services, see www.eastwestcenter.org/journalists.

Explore

East-West Wire

Tagline
News, Commentary, and Analysis
East-West Wire

The East-West Wire is a news, commentary, and analysis service provided by the East-West Center in Honolulu. Any part or all of the Wire content may be used by media with attribution to the East-West Center or the person quoted. To receive East-West Center Wire media releases via email, subscribe here.

For links to all East-West Center media programs, fellowships and services, see www.eastwestcenter.org/journalists.

Explore




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2024 Changing Faces Women's Leadership Seminar

2024 Changing Faces Women's Leadership Seminar

grandyd




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Blake Shelton launching singing competition 'The Road' with 'revolutionary' twist

Blake Shelton previously coached 9 winners over 23 seasons of 'The Voice' before his departure in 2023Blake Shelton isn’t done with music competitions just yet. A year after his departure from The Voice, the country star, 48, is gearing up to launch a new show called The Road, set to air on...




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Toyota eyes lunar rover powered by regenerative fuel-cell tech

Toyota has teamed up with JAXA since 2019 to develop the manned lunar rover — which it dubbed the Lunar Cruiser — that they hope can be put on the moon in 2029.




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Asian Impact Webinar 79: Key Indicators for Asia and the Pacific 2024 Launch

Uncovering crucial gaps in climate change data systems reveals how these deficiencies hamper our understanding of climate impacts on vulnerable populations in developing Asia. How can we empower national statistical systems in collecting and analyzing data they need to effectively tackle climate change?




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Asian Impact Webinar 80: Statistical Data and Metadata eXchange for Enhanced Data Management

Decision makers need to analyze, exchange, and disseminate statistical information effectively in today’s data-driven world. See how Statistical Data and Metadata eXchange (SDMX) standards are helping create robust data links across the globe.




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Asian Impact Webinar: Asian Development Outlook September 2024 Launch

Developing Asia’s outlook remains upbeat, with falling inflation and solid growth driven by strong domestic demand and exports. But risks remain, including geopolitical tensions and rising protectionism. How can the region remain resilient?




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8th Greater Mekong Subregion Summit, Plenary Session - Masatsugu Asakawa

Remarks by Masatsugu Asakawa, President, Asian Development Bank, at the 8th Greater Mekong Subregion Summit, Plenary Session, 7 November 2024




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Asian Impact Webinar: Global Spillovers from Data-Dependent US Monetary Policy

The Federal Reserve’s monetary policy has become increasingly data-dependent, with inflation and employment figures driving the nascent easing cycle. What does this mean for Asia’s financial markets?




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L44429-IND: Climate Adaptation in Vennar Sub Basin in Cauvery Delta (CAVSCD) Project[Infrastructure Improvement and Reconstruction Works on Pandavaiyar river from 109.270 Km to 148.020 Km Package No CAVSCD/TN/ PDR]




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The cactus family’s surprising evolutionary journey

We are finally untangling the ancient history of the cactus family, revealing some surprising forces that shaped these plants – ­­­­­­and prompting concern for their future




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How dodo de-extinction is helping rescue the extraordinary pink pigeon

The same genetic tools being used to resurrect the woolly mammoth and dodo could help many other vulnerable species that have yet to die out




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What made us human? The fossils redefining our evolutionary origins

Fossils found 50 and 100 years ago seemed to pinpoint the moment humanity emerged – but defining a human has turned out to be far trickier than we thought




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Physicists created an imaginary magnetic field in real life

Researchers have used quantum light to create a magnetic field with a strength that is measured in imaginary numbers




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How to unsnarl a tangle of threads, according to physics

A jiggling robot has revealed the ideal vibrating speed to free jumbled fibres




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Hopes for new physics dashed by ordinary-looking W bosons at CERN

In 2022, physicists were excited by hints that something was wrong with our understanding of the universe - but new results have put that in doubt




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Geoscientists are using telecom 'dark fibres' to map Earth’s innards

The networks of fibre optic cables that criss-cross the planet could be used to better understand what’s happening inside it




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The unexpected reasons why human childhood is extraordinarily long

Why childhood is so protracted has long been mysterious, now a spate of archaeological discoveries suggest an intriguing explanation




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50,000-year-old picture of a pig is the oldest known narrative art

A new radiometric dating technique reveals that cave paintings on Sulawesi, Indonesia, are even older than previously thought, pushing back the earliest evidence of storytelling




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What made us human? The fossils redefining our evolutionary origins

Fossils found 50 and 100 years ago seemed to pinpoint the moment humanity emerged – but defining a human has turned out to be far trickier than we thought




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Stop Using Ivermectin Veterinary Drug to Treat COVID, FDA Urges

Title: Stop Using Ivermectin Veterinary Drug to Treat COVID, FDA Urges
Category: Health News
Created: 8/23/2021 12:00:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 8/23/2021 12:00:00 AM




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Can Your Smartphone Spot a Narrowed Neck Artery?

Title: Can Your Smartphone Spot a Narrowed Neck Artery?
Category: Health News
Created: 8/17/2022 12:00:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 8/17/2022 12:00:00 AM




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Noninvasive diagnostic modalities and prediction models for detecting pulmonary hypertension associated with interstitial lung disease: a narrative review

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is highly prevalent in patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD) and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Widely available noninvasive screening tools are warranted to identify patients at risk for PH, especially severe PH, that could be managed at expert centres. This review summarises current evidence on noninvasive diagnostic modalities and prediction models for the timely detection of PH in patients with ILD. It critically evaluates these approaches and discusses future perspectives in the field. A comprehensive literature search was carried out in PubMed and Scopus, identifying 39 articles that fulfilled inclusion criteria. There is currently no single noninvasive test capable of accurately detecting and diagnosing PH in ILD patients. Estimated right ventricular pressure (RVSP) on Doppler echocardiography remains the single most predictive factor of PH, with other indirect echocardiographic markers increasing its diagnostic accuracy. However, RVSP can be difficult to estimate in patients due to suboptimal views from extensive lung disease. The majority of existing composite scores, including variables obtained from chest computed tomography, pulmonary function tests and cardiopulmonary exercise tests, were derived from retrospective studies, whilst lacking validation in external cohorts. Only two available scores, one based on a stepwise echocardiographic approach and the other on functional parameters, predicted the presence of PH with sufficient accuracy and used a validation cohort. Although several methodological limitations prohibit their generalisability, their use may help physicians to detect PH earlier. Further research on the potential of artificial intelligence may guide a more tailored approach, for timely PH diagnosis.




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Evolutionary dynamics of polyadenylation signals and their recognition strategies in protists [RESEARCH]

The poly(A) signal, together with auxiliary elements, directs cleavage of a pre-mRNA and thus determines the 3' end of the mature transcript. In many species, including humans, the poly(A) signal is an AAUAAA hexamer, but we recently found that the deeply branching eukaryote Giardia lamblia uses a distinct hexamer (AGURAA) and lacks any known auxiliary elements. Our discovery prompted us to explore the evolutionary dynamics of poly(A) signals and auxiliary elements in the eukaryotic kingdom. We use direct RNA sequencing to determine poly(A) signals for four protists within the Metamonada clade (which also contains G. lamblia) and two outgroup protists. These experiments reveal that the AAUAAA hexamer serves as the poly(A) signal in at least four different eukaryotic clades, indicating that it is likely the ancestral signal, whereas the unusual Giardia version is derived. We find that the use and relative strengths of auxiliary elements are also plastic; in fact, within Metamonada, species like G. lamblia make use of a previously unrecognized auxiliary element where nucleotides flanking the poly(A) signal itself specify genuine cleavage sites. Thus, despite the fundamental nature of pre-mRNA cleavage for the expression of all protein-coding genes, the motifs controlling this process are dynamic on evolutionary timescales, providing motivation for future biochemical and structural studies as well as new therapeutic angles to target eukaryotic pathogens.




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Supporting Evidence For Pulmonary Rehabilitation in the Treatment of Long COVID




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Perspectives on Using Race in Pulmonary Function Testing: A National Survey of Fellows and Program Directors

BACKGROUND:Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) have historically used race-specific prediction equations. The recent American Thoracic Society guidelines recommend the use of a race-neutral approach in prediction equations. There are limited studies centering the opinions of practicing pulmonologists on the use of race in spirometry. Provider opinion will impact adoption of the new guideline. The aim of this study was to ascertain the beliefs of academic pulmonary and critical care providers regarding the use of race as a variable in spirometry prediction equations.METHODS:We report data from 151 open-ended responses from a voluntary, nationwide survey (distributed by the Association of Pulmonary Critical Care Medicine Program Directors) of academic pulmonary and critical care providers regarding the use of race in PFT prediction equations. Responses were coded using inductive and deductive methods, and a thematic content analysis was conducted.RESULTS:There was a balanced distribution of opinions among respondents supporting, opposing, or being unsure about the incorporation of race in spirometry prediction equations. Responses demonstrated a wide array of understanding related to the concept and definition of race and its relationship to physiology.CONCLUSIONS:There was no consensus among providers regarding the use of race in spirometry prediction equations. Concepts of race having biologic implications persist among pulmonary providers and will likely affect the uptake of the Global Lung Function Initiative per the American Thoracic Society guidelines.




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Comparison of Binary Alcohol/Water Solvent Systems to Blood for Extractions of Blood-Contacting Medical Devices

The analysis of extractables and leachables and subsequent risk assessment is an important aspect of the determination of biocompatibility for many medical devices. Leachable chemicals have the potential to pose a toxicological risk to patients, and therefore it is required that they be adequately characterized and assessed for potential safety concerns. One important consideration in the assessment of leachables is the choice of a suitable simulating solvent intended to replicate the use condition for the device and its biological environment. This aspect of study design is especially difficult for blood-contacting medical devices due to the complexity of simulating the biological matrix. This publication reports a comparison of the extracting power of different binary solvent mixtures and saline in comparison with whole blood for a bloodline tubing set connected to a hemodialyzer. Ten different known extractables, spanning a range of physicochemical properties and molecular weights, were quantified. The results indicated that for low-molecular-weight analytes, a suitable exaggeration for whole blood can be obtained using a low-concentration ethanol/water mixture (20%), and in general, extracted quantity increases with the concentration of alcohol cosolvent. For polyvinylpyrrolidone, the opposite trend was observed, as solubility of the polymer was found to decrease with increasing alcohol concentration, resulting in lower extracted quantities at high alcohol concentrations. Analysis of ethanol/water concentrations in the extract solutions post extraction indicated no change in solvent composition.




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High-resolution reconstruction of a C. elegans ribosome sheds light on evolutionary dynamics and tissue specificity [ARTICLE]

Caenorhabditis elegans is an important model organism for human health and disease, with foundational contributions to the understanding of gene expression and tissue patterning in animals. An invaluable tool in modern gene expression research is the presence of a high-resolution ribosome structure, though no such structure exists for C. elegans. Here, we present a high-resolution single-particle cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) reconstruction and molecular model of a C. elegans ribosome, revealing a significantly streamlined animal ribosome. Many facets of ribosome structure are conserved in C. elegans, including overall ribosomal architecture and the mechanism of cycloheximide, whereas other facets, such as expansion segments and eL28, are rapidly evolving. We identify uL5 and uL23 as two instances of tissue-specific ribosomal protein paralog expression conserved in Caenorhabditis, suggesting that C. elegans ribosomes vary across tissues. The C. elegans ribosome structure will provide a basis for future structural, biochemical, and genetic studies of translation in this important animal system.




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Multidisciplinary management of adult patients with chylothorax: a consensus statement

The management of chylothorax remains challenging given the limited evidence and significant heterogeneity in practice. In addition, there are no practical guidelines on the optimal approach to manage this complex condition. We convened an international group of 27 experts from 20 institutions across five countries and four specialties (pulmonary, interventional radiology, thoracic surgery and nutrition) with experience and expertise in managing adult patients with chylothorax. We performed a literature and internet search for reports addressing seven clinically relevant PICO (Patient, Intervention, Comparison and Outcome) questions pertaining to the management of adult patients with chylothorax. This consensus statement, consisting of best practice statements based on expert consensus addressing these seven PICO questions, was formulated by a systematic and rigorous process involving the evaluation of published evidence, augmented with provider experience. Panel members participated in the development of the final best practice statements using the modified Delphi technique. Our consensus statement aims to offer guidance in clinical decision making when managing patients with chylothorax while also identifying gaps in knowledge and informing future research.




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Antenatal Care Interventions to Increase Contraceptive Use Following Birth in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Systematic Review and Narrative Synthesis

ABSTRACTIntroduction:Health risks associated with short interpregnancy intervals, coupled with women’s desires to avoid pregnancy following childbirth, underscore the need for effective postpartum family planning programs. The antenatal period provides an opportunity to intervene; however, evidence is limited on the effectiveness of interventions aimed at reaching women in the antenatal period to increase voluntary postpartum family planning in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This systematic review aimed to identify and describe interventions in LMICs that attempted to increase postpartum contraceptive use via contacts with pregnant women in the antenatal period.Methods:Studies published from January 2012 to July 2022 were considered if they were conducted in LMICs, evaluated an intervention delivered during the antenatal period, were designed to affect postpartum contraceptive use, were experimental or quasi-experimental, and were published in French or English. The main outcome of interest was postpartum contraceptive use within 1 year after birth, defined as the use of any method of contraception at the time of data collection. We searched EMBASE, Global Health, and Medline and manually searched the reference lists from studies included in the full-text screening.Results:We double-screened 771 records and included 34 reports on 31 unique interventions in the review. Twenty-three studies were published from 2018 on, with 21 studies conducted in sub-Saharan Africa. Approximately half of the study designs (n=16) were randomized controlled trials, and half (n=15) were quasi-experimental. Interventions were heterogeneous. Among the 24 studies that reported on the main outcome of interest, 18 reported a positive intervention effect, with intervention recipients having greater contraceptive use in the first year postpartum.Conclusion:While the studies in this systematic review were heterogeneous, the findings suggest that interventions that included a multifaceted package of initiatives appeared to be most likely to have a positive effect.




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Deep Learning-Based Reconstruction of 3D T1 SPACE Vessel Wall Imaging Provides Improved Image Quality with Reduced Scan Times: A Preliminary Study [ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE]

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE:

Intracranial vessel wall imaging is technically challenging to implement, given the simultaneous requirements of high spatial resolution, excellent blood and CSF signal suppression, and clinically acceptable gradient times. Herein, we present our preliminary findings on the evaluation of a deep learning–optimized sequence using T1-weighted imaging.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Clinical and optimized deep learning–based image reconstruction T1 3D Sampling Perfection with Application optimized Contrast using different flip angle Evolution (SPACE) were evaluated, comparing noncontrast sequences in 10 healthy controls and postcontrast sequences in 5 consecutive patients. Images were reviewed on a Likert-like scale by 4 fellowship-trained neuroradiologists. Scores (range, 1–4) were separately assigned for 11 vessel segments in terms of vessel wall and lumen delineation. Additionally, images were evaluated in terms of overall background noise, image sharpness, and homogeneous CSF signal. Segment-wise scores were compared using paired samples t tests.

RESULTS:

The scan time for the clinical and deep learning–based image reconstruction sequences were 7:26 minutes and 5:23 minutes respectively. Deep learning–based image reconstruction images showed consistently higher wall signal and lumen visualization scores, with the differences being statistically significant in most vessel segments on both pre- and postcontrast images. Deep learning–based image reconstruction had lower background noise, higher image sharpness, and uniform CSF signal. Depiction of intracranial pathologies was better or similar on the deep learning–based image reconstruction.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our preliminary findings suggest that deep learning–based image reconstruction–optimized intracranial vessel wall imaging sequences may be helpful in achieving shorter gradient times with improved vessel wall visualization and overall image quality. These improvements may help with wider adoption of intracranial vessel wall imaging in clinical practice and should be further validated on a larger cohort.




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Academic Neuroradiology: 2023 Update on Turnaround Time, Financial Recruitment, and Retention Strategies [CLINICAL PRACTICE]

SUMMARY:

The ASNR Neuroradiology Division Chief Working Group's 2023 survey, with responses from 62 division chiefs, provides insights into turnaround times, faculty recruitment, moonlighting opportunities, and academic funds. In emergency cases, 61% aim for a turnaround time of less than 45–60 minutes, with two-thirds meeting this expectation more than 75% of the time. For inpatient CT and MR imaging scans, 54% achieve a turnaround time of 4–8 hours, with three-quarters meeting this expectation at least 50% of the time. Outpatient scans have an expected turnaround time of 24–48 hours, which is met in 50% of cases. Faculty recruitment strategies included 35% offering sign-on bonuses, with a median of $30,000. Additionally, 23% provided bonuses to fellows during fellowship to retain them in the practice upon completion of their fellowship. Internal moonlighting opportunities for faculty were offered by 70% of divisions, with a median pay of $250 per hour. The median annual academic fund for a full-time neuroradiology faculty member was $6000, typically excluding license fees but including American College of Radiology and American Board of Radiology membership, leaving $4000 for professional expenses. This survey calls for further dialogue on adapting and innovating academic institutions to meet evolving needs in neuroradiology.




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Novel inherited CDX2 variant segregating in a family with diverse congenital malformations of the genitourinary system [RAPID COMMUNICATION]

Anorectal malformations (ARMs) constitute a group of congenital defects of the gastrointestinal and urogenital systems. They affect males and females, with an estimated worldwide prevalence of 1 in 5000 live births. These malformations are clinically heterogeneous and can be part of a syndromic presentation (syndromic ARM) or as a nonsyndromic entity (nonsyndromic ARM). Despite the well-recognized heritability of nonsyndromic ARM, the genetic etiology in most patients is unknown. In this study, we describe three siblings with diverse congenital anomalies of the genitourinary system, anemia, delayed milestones, and skeletal anomalies. Genome sequencing identified a novel, paternally inherited heterozygous Caudal type Homeobox 2 (CDX2) variant (c.722A > G (p.Glu241Gly)), that was present in all three affected siblings. The variant identified in this family is absent from population databases and predicted to be damaging by most in silico pathogenicity tools. So far, only two other reports implicate variants in CDX2 with ARMs. Remarkably, the individuals described in these studies had similar clinical phenotypes and genetic alterations in CDX2. CDX2 encodes a transcription factor and is considered the master regulator of gastrointestinal development. This variant maps to the homeobox domain of the encoded protein, which is critical for interaction with DNA targets. Our finding provides a potential molecular diagnosis for this family's condition and supports the role of CDX2 in anorectal anomalies. It also highlights the clinical heterogeneity and variable penetrance of ARM predisposition variants, another well-documented phenomenon. Finally, it underscores the diagnostic utility of genomic profiling of ARMs to identify the genetic etiology of these defects.




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Chest Pain in Primary Care: A Systematic Review of Risk Stratification Tools to Rule Out Acute Coronary Syndrome [Systematic Review]

PURPOSE

Chest pain frequently poses a diagnostic challenge for general practitioners (GPs). Utilizing risk stratification tools might help GPs to rule out acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and make appropriate referral decisions. We conducted a systematic review of studies evaluating risk stratification tools for chest pain in primary care settings, both with and without troponin assays. Our aims were to assess the performance of tools for ruling out ACS and to provide a comprehensive review of the current evidence.

METHODS

We searched PubMed and Embase for articles up to October 9, 2023 concerning adult patients with acute chest pain in primary care settings, for whom risk stratification tools (clinical decision rules [CDRs] and/or single biomarker tests) were used. To identify eligible studies, a combination of active learning and backward snowballing was applied. Screening, data extraction, and quality assessment (following the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 tool) were performed independently by 2 researchers.

RESULTS

Of the 1,204 studies screened, 14 were included in the final review. Nine studies validated 7 different CDRs without troponin. Sensitivities ranged from 75.0% to 97.0%, and negative predictive values (NPV) ranged from 82.4% to 99.7%. None of the CDRs outperformed the unaided judgment of GP’s. Five studies reported on strategies using troponin measurements. Studies using high-sensitivity troponin showed highest diagnostic accuracy with sensitivity 83.3% to 100% and NPV 98.8% to 100%.

CONCLUSION

Clinical decision rules without troponin and the use of conventional troponin showed insufficient sensitivity to rule out ACS in primary care and are not recommended as standalone tools. High-sensitivity troponin strategies are promising, but studies are limited. Further prospective validation in primary care is needed before implementation.




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[Evolutionary Biology] How Important Is Variation in Extrinsic Reproductive Isolation to the Process of Speciation?

The strength of reproductive isolation (RI) between two or more lineages during the process of speciation can vary by the ecological conditions. However, most speciation research has been limited to studying how ecologically dependent RI varies among a handful of broadly categorized environments. Very few studies consider the variability of RI and its effects on speciation at finer scales—that is, within each environment due to spatial or temporal environmental heterogeneity. Such variation in RI across time and/or space may inhibit speciation through leaky reproductive barriers or promote speciation by facilitating reinforcement. To investigate this overlooked aspect of speciation research, we conducted a literature review of existing studies of variation in RI in the field and then conducted individual-based simulations to examine how variation in hybrid fitness across time and space affects the degree of gene flow. Our simulations indicate that the presence of variation in hybrid fitness across space and time often leads to an increase in gene flow compared to scenarios where hybrid fitness remains static. This observation can be attributed to the convex relationship between the degree of gene flow and the strength of selection on hybrids. Our simulations also show that the effect of variation in RI on facilitating gene flow is most pronounced when RI, on average, is relatively low. This finding suggests that it could serve as an important mechanism to explain why the completion of speciation is often challenging. While direct empirical evidence documenting variation in extrinsic RI is limited, we contend that it is a prevalent yet underexplored phenomenon. We support this argument by proposing common scenarios in which RI is likely to exhibit variability and thus influence the process of speciation.




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[Evolutionary Biology] How Does Selfing Affect the Pace and Process of Speciation?

Surprisingly little attention has been given to the impact of selfing on speciation, even though selfing reduces gene flow between populations and affects other key population genetics parameters. Here we review recent theoretical work and compile empirical data from crossing experiments and genomic and phylogenetic studies to assess the effect of mating systems on the speciation process. In accordance with theoretical predictions, we find that accumulation of hybrid incompatibilities seems to be accelerated in selfers, but there is so far limited empirical support for a predicted bias toward underdominant loci. Phylogenetic evidence is scarce and contradictory, including studies suggesting that selfing either promotes or hampers speciation rate. Further studies are therefore required, which in addition to measures of reproductive barrier strength and selfing rate should routinely include estimates of demographic history and genetic divergence as a proxy for divergence time.




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An elderly woman with acute respiratory failure and diffuse pulmonary changes




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Pulmonary complications of bone marrow transplantation

Bone marrow transplantation, now often known as haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), is a complex choreographed procedure used to treat both acquired and inherited disorders of the bone marrow. It has proven invaluable as therapy for haematological and immunological disorders, and more recently in the treatment of metabolic and enzyme disorders. As the number of performed transplants grows annually, and with patients enjoying improved survival, a knowledge of both early and late complications of HSCT is essential for respiratory trainees and physicians in practice. This article highlights the spectrum of respiratory complications, both infectious and non-infectious, the timeline of their likely occurrence, and the approaches used for diagnosis and treatment, keeping in mind that more than one entity may occur simultaneously. As respiratory issues are often a leading cause of short- and long-term morbidity, consideration of a combined haematology/respiratory clinic may prove useful in this patient population.




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Controversies in the clinical management of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis

Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis has a range of manifestations from indolent nodules to semi-invasive infection. Patients may be asymptomatic or have chronic symptoms such as cough and weight loss or present with life-threatening haemoptysis. The physician can choose from a range of available therapies including medical therapy with antifungals, minimally invasive therapy with intracavitary antifungal therapy and surgery involving open thoracotomy or video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery. The patients with the most severe forms of pulmonary infection may not be surgical candidates due to their underlying pulmonary condition. The management of haemoptysis can include tranexamic acid, bronchial artery embolisation, antifungals or surgery. There are few controlled studies to inform clinicians managing complex cases, so a multidisciplinary approach may be helpful.




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Straftat review: an anarchic First-Person Speed dater you'll fall in love with

It’s tempting to frame Straftat as a throwback to an older, better time for the multiplayer FPS, when the lingo was coded in frags and gibs and sucking it down, when satisfaction was drawn entirely from performance rather than some convoluted, artificial system of progression. Not only would this be inaccurate, but it would also do a disservice to what Straftat truly is, namely a wild overcorrection in response to the direction of modern multiplayer gunfests, one that careens straight through retro stations to arrive somewhere new and exciting.

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Strange binary star system has three Earth-sized exoplanets

Exoplanets in binary star systems usually orbit both stars, but astronomers have now spotted three planets orbiting one or the other star in a pair




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Planet spotted orbiting Barnard's star just 6 light years away

Astronomers have detected an exoplanet around Barnard’s star, one of the sun’s closest neighbours, but it is too hot for liquid water or life