V1 V3 Research Articles

Idiosyncratic patterns of interhemispheric connectivity in the face and scene networks of the human brain

Abstract Neuroimaging studies have revealed a network of regions in both hemispheres of the human brain that respond selectively to faces. Neural models of face processing have typically focused on functional connectivity between regions in the same hemisphere (intrahemispheric), with a particular bias toward the right hemisphere. Here, we explored the role of interhemispheric connectivity using fMRI. We used three datasets to compare functional connectivity, as shown by correlations between the time-courses of neural activity of face regions during different natural viewing paradigms. We found higher correlations of neural activity between corresponding interhemispheric regions (e.g., rFFA–lFFA) than between intrahemispheric regions (e.g., rFFA–rOFA), indicating a bias towards higher interhemispheric than intrahemispheric connectivity. A similar interhemispheric bias was evident in scene-selective regions. In contrast, we did not find an interhemispheric bias in early visual regions (V1–V3), where intrahemispheric connectivity between corresponding regions was generally higher than interhemispheric connectivity. Next, we asked whether the higher interhemispheric connectivity in the face and scene networks between corresponding regions was consistent across participants. We found that the interhemispheric bias was significantly attenuated when we compared the time-course of response across participants. This shows that interhemispheric bias in connectivity between corresponding regions in the face and scene networks is specific to the individual. These findings raise the possibility that idiosyncratic variation in interhemispheric connectivity may explain individual differences in perception.

MYOCARDITIS: VIRUS OR DESMOSOME?

Abstract Patient Profile Female, 56 yo, arterial hypertension, FH of autoimmune diseases, no history of sudden death. Medical History: • At the age of 46: Hospitalized for chest pain. Coronary angiography: negative. Diagnosis: myocardial ischemia with normal coronary arteries. • 2018: Hospitalized again for angina. ECG showed low voltages, flat T–waves in the inf–lat. leads. Coronary angiography: negative. Biopsy Mild hypertrophy and cytoplasmic vacuolization, minimal increase in interstitial fibrosis, no necrosis or inflammatory infiltrates. Mild nonspecific cardiomyopathy. Viral DNA test positive for HHV–6. Serology: HHV–6 in blood (neg), IgG HHV–6 (pos), IgM (neg). Diagnosis: myocarditis due to HHV–6. • San Camillo Cardiomyopathy Center: Echocardiogram: basal ant–lat. hypokinesia, EF 60%. Therapy: Bisoprolol 3.75 mg, Ramipril 5 mg, Ranolazine 1000 mg. MRI: basal transmural ant–lat. and subepicardial lateral LGE. Oedema and hypokinesia coexists. Subacute myocarditis. MRI at 1 year: mild left ventricular dilation, EF 60%, meso–subepicardial LGE in the ant–lat and inf mid–basal regions without oedema. Serial Holter ECGs: frequent polymorphic ventricular ectopics, couplets, and runs. CPET: normal exercise capacity, pVO2 19.4 (ml/min)/kg (90%). Genetic testing VUS in DSC, probably pathogenic, and VUS in ABCC9, PKP2, DSP (2 mutations) with uncertain clinical significance. • In 2022: Readmitted for angina. Elevated Troponin levels. Coro CT angiography: negative. MRI: EF 45%, akinesia of the apex and apical lat. wall; diffuse LGE and edema. Pericardial effusion. Patient refused biopsy. Discharged after recovery (EF 52%) with the diagnosis of recurrent myocarditis. Empagliflozin added. • Follow up. ECG: progression of repolarization abnormalities (TWI in V1–V3 + inf.–lat. leads). Biopsy: fibroadipose replacement, no necrosis or inflammatory infiltrates. Chronic myocarditis and sequels. Viral tests: negative. CPET and stress echo: VO2peak 20.7 (ml/kg)/min (88%), normal work capacity. Very rare monomorphic PVCs. EF 50%, preserved contractile reserve. Conclusions Diagnosis of left dominant arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy with a typical pattern for hot phases of myocardial inflammation. The first episode could have been triggered by a viral infection on a predisposing genetic substrate. Nadolol 40 mg x2 was introduced. The possibility of ICD implantation was discussed, and patient refused. A six–month follow–up was planned. Family screening results were negative.

WELLENS SYNDROME: TIMELY RECOGNITION AND SUCCESSFUL REVASCULARIZATION

Abstract Wellens syndrome is a condition characterized by clinical and instrumental signs suggestive of a critical proximal left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery stenosis and requires early revascularization. Diagnostic criteria include T–wave changes in ECG during asymptomatic periods in patients with a history of chest pain, absence of significant cardiac enzyme movement, no ST–segment elevation, preserved R–wave, and no pathological Q waves. Early recognition of this syndrome is crucial, due to its 10–15% prevalence, allowing proper management and myocardial function recovery, avoiding potentially catastrophic outcomes. A 64–year–old male, with hypertension, undiagnosed diabetes, and family history of CAD, presented to our ER with sudden, brief chest pain radiating to the left upper limb. Similar episodes had occurred in the past week. The patient denied previous cardiovascular events and home therapy. ECG conducted by the attending cardiologist, during free chest pain period, showed biphasic T–wave in V1–V3 (a). Admission ECG resembled the ambulatory one. Lab results: Hb 14.7 g/dl, Troponin I 0.059 ng/ml (cut–off 0.034). Echocardiogram indicated distal septum akinesia. Urgent coronary angiography was performed, detecting subocclusive stenosis in the proximal–mid LAD. Successful revascularization was achieved by PTCA and implantation of 1 DES. (b) Subsequently, the patient was admitted to the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit for multiparametric monitoring. The ECG showed deeply negative T waves from V1 to V6. (c) No complications during hospitalization. Discharge ECG showed repolarization anomalies improvement. Echocardiography revealed preserved systolic function, without global or segmental anomalies in wall motion. Wellens syndrome is a manifestation of acute coronary syndrome that precedes an anterior wall MI. This condition can be identified by its characteristic T–wave patterns on ECG. Patients with this syndrome have severe LAD occlusion and require early coronary intervention. In chest pain episodes, the ECG appears normal, and troponin levels often remain within the normal range, which can potentially provide false reassurance. Wellens syndrome is a cardiac emergency requiring immediate attention; it is crucial for the physician to promptly identify the typical ECG signs of Wellens Syndrome, facilitating early coronary revascularization to prevent adverse patient outcomes.

HALF DOSE THROMBOLYSIS IN INTERMEDIATE – HIGH RISK PULMONARY EMBOLISM WITH TRICUSPID VALVE MOBILE MASS: A BAIL OUT STRATEGY

Abstract A 82–year–old previously healthy male was referred to the emergency department complaining sudden onset dyspnea and witnessed syncope complicated by head trauma. Recurrent dizziness occurred previously. No history or drug consumption noted. On admission: heart rate 90 beats/min, blood pressure 110/60 mmHg, respiratory rate 25 breaths/min, oxygen saturation 87% in room air, normal body temperature. No lower extremities tenderness or swelling reported. Consistent with peripheral blood oxygen saturation levels, arterial blood gas analysis showed hypoxemia and respiratory alkalosis. Laboratory exams were significant for thrombocytopenia (89.000 cells/L), elevated cardiac troponin T levels (222 ng/L) and natriuretic peptide (NT pro–BNP 3944 pg/mL). Head CT excluded acute cerebral hemorrhage. At the electrocardiogram, signs of RV strain were present (biphasic T–waves in V1–V3 leads, S1–Q3–T3). Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) showed dilated RV with hypokinetic free wall, “D–shaped” LV, “60/60” sign and a mobile filiform mass crossing the tricuspid valve plan in the right atrium (fig. 1). The patient did not present structural valvular abnormalities or endocarditis–related risk factors. CT pulmonary angiography detected a “saddle” PE and extensive thrombosis in inferior vena cava. After unfractioned heparin (UFH) bolus, the patient was transferred to our intensive care unit and balancing risks and benefits the chosen treatment option consisted in half dose systemic thrombolysis (50 mg rtPA in 60’’; 10 mg as loading dose in 2’). Because of potential harmful effects in thrombocytopenia and recent head trauma, UFH was temporarily withheld and started again after 1 hour. The day after, a beside TTE showed complete tricuspid thrombus resolution, a significant decrease in RV/LV ratio and systolic pulmonary artery pressure (fig. 2). Apart from small hematomas, no bleedings were reported. The patient was shifted to the ward on the next day and following course was uneventful. On day 4 a direct oral anticoagulant (Dabigatran 110 mg) was started. Abdominal and inferior limb–deep–venous ultrasound were both negative for pathological reports. A total body CT was scheduled to exclude silent malignancies at discharge. Take home message: in intermediate–high risk PE, half dose systemic fibrinolysis strategy is controversial since its potential benefit is counterbalanced by concerns about major bleedings, but increasing data suggest its efficacy with low risk profile.

WAITING FOR A CONCERT IN SUMMER HEAT: A TRANSIENT ST ELEVATION IN A YOUNG MAN

Abstract A 22–year–old man, without prior cardiological history, was waiting for a concert to start many hours in summer heat. Suddenly he started to feel chest pain, dyspnea, and palpitations. Electrocardiogram (EKG), registered from first aid responders, showed a ST elevation in V1–V3 leads and ventricular repolarization alterations in inferior leads. The patient was brought to Emergency department (ED) where a new EKG resulted normalized, blood test samples showed High Sensitive Troponin T (HsTn) 35 ng/L (at plateau in three seriate measures), serum creatinine 2.0 mg/dL, total Creatine Kinase 646U/L, Ck–MB 10.6 ng/mL, Reactive C Protein (RCP) 1.2 mg/dl. The toxicological evaluation was negative. Transthoracic Echocardiography (TTE) did not show any regional ventricular kinesis alterations nor valvular defects, global systolic function was preserved. A Coronary Computed Tomography (CT) scan showed an intramyocardial bridge on Anterior Descending (DA) Coronary Artery associated to 7 mm pericardial effusion without coronary stenosis. A Cardiac Magnetic Resonance (CMR) with gadolinium was performed, which did not show (in T2 mapping sequences) oedema nor Late Gadolinium Enhancement (LGE). Considering a coexistence of Brugada syndrome pattern at EKG, an Ajmaline testing was performed, which resulted negative. Discussion: Dehydration due to any intake of water after standing many hours in summer heat could have been the trigger for a vasospasm of DA that in this patient has a partially intramyocardial course. This anatomical finding was not known until CT scan was performed. Our diagnostic hypothesis of a vasospasm on DA is supported by EKG alterations and elevation enzymes of myocardionecrosis, in absence of any coronary stenosis. Elevated creatinine values in the absence of other renal concomitant comorbidities were suggestive for acute dehydration too. Differential diagnosis took also into consideration myo–pericarditis, especially for the pericardial effusion finding revealed by CT scan: this diagnosis was not confirmed through CMR but also by the evolution of clinical conditions of our patient. We discharged the patient, asymptomatic with normalized renal function after some intravenous hydration and we prescribed a calcium channel blocker. At a follow up visit, three months after the acute event, our patient was in good clinical condition and denied occurrence of any other similar events.

Raman spectroscopy of kassite, lucasite-(Ce), La analogue of lucasite, and cafetite

Raman spectra of lucasite-(Ce), La-analogue of lucasite, kassite and cafetite are significantly different. Most evident differences were revealed in the position of bands corresponding to vibrational modes for bands assigned to symmetrical v1(Ti-O) and asymmetrical v3(O-Ti-O) stretching vibrations, as well as the bands determined by asymmetrical bending vibrations v4(transTiO6) and asymmetrical v3(O-Ti-O) stretching vibrations. Raman spectra of lucasite-(Ce) and La-analogue of lucasite are published for the first time. The presented data are valuable for the identification of cafetite and kassite group minerals using Raman spectroscopy.

Illumina 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing Dataset of Bacterial Communities of Soil Associated with Ironwood Trees (Casuarina equisetifolia) in Guam

Ironwood trees, which are of great importance for the economy and environment of tropical areas, were first discovered to suffer from a slow progressive dieback in Guam in 2002, later referred to as ironwood tree decline (IWTD). A variety of biotic factors have been shown to be associated with IWTD, including putative bacterial pathogens Ralstonia solanacearum and Klebsiella species (K. variicola and K. oxytoca), the fungus Ganoderma australe, and termites. Due to the soilborne nature of these pathogens, soil microbiomes have been suggested to be a significant factor influencing tree health. In this project, we sequenced the microbiome in the soil collected from the root region of healthy ironwood trees and those showing signs of IWTD to evaluate the association between the bacterial community in soil and IWTD. This dataset contains 4,782,728 raw sequencing reads present in soil samples collected from thirty-nine ironwood trees with varying scales of decline severity in Guam obtained via sequencing the V1–V3 region of the 16S rRNA gene on the Illumina NovaSeq (2 × 250 bp) platform. Sequences were taxonomically assigned in QIIME2 using the SILVA 132 database. Firmicutes and Actinobacteria were the most dominant phyla in soil. Differences in soil microbiomes were detected between limestone and sand soil parent materials. No putative plant pathogens of the genera Ralstonia or Klebsiella were found in the samples. Bacterial diversity was not linked to parameters of IWTD. The dataset has been made publicly available through NCBI GenBank under BioProject ID PRJNA883256. This dataset can be used to compare the bacterial taxa present in soil associated with ironwood trees in Guam to bacteria communities of other geographical locations to identify microbial signatures of IWTD. In addition, this dataset can also be used to investigate the relationship between soil microbiomes and the microbiomes of ironwood trees as well as those of the termites which attack ironwood trees.

Bypassing input to V1 in visual awareness: A TMS-EROS investigation

Early visual cortex (V1–V3) is believed to be critical for normal visual awareness by providing the necessary feedforward input. However, it remains unclear whether visual awareness can occur without further involvement of early visual cortex, such as re-entrant feedback. It has been challenging to determine the importance of feedback activity to these areas because of the difficulties in dissociating this activity from the initial feedforward activity. Here, we applied single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) over the left posterior parietal cortex to elicit phosphenes in the absence of direct visual input to early visual cortex. Immediate neural activity after the TMS pulse was assessed using the event-related optical signal (EROS), which can measure activity under the TMS coil without artifacts. Our results show that: 1) The activity in posterior parietal cortex 50 ms after TMS was related to phosphene awareness, and 2) Activity related to awareness was observed in a small portion of V1 140 ms after TMS, but in contrast (3) Activity in V2 was a more robust correlate of awareness. Together, these results are consistent with interactive models proposing that sustained and recurrent loops of activity between cortical areas are necessary for visual awareness to emerge. In addition, we observed phosphene-related activations of the anteromedial cuneus and lateral occipital cortex, suggesting a functional network subserving awareness comprising these regions, the parietal cortex and early visual cortex.

Deep sea treasures - Insights from museum archives shed light on coral microbial diversity within deepest ocean ecosystems

Deep sea benthic habitats are low productivity ecosystems that host an abundance of organisms within the Cnidaria phylum. The technical limitations and the high cost of deep sea surveys have made exploring deep sea environments and the biology of the organisms that inhabit them challenging. In spite of the widespread recognition of Cnidaria's environmental importance in these ecosystems, the microbial assemblage and its role in coral functioning have only been studied for a few deep water corals. Here, we explored the microbial diversity of deep sea corals by recovering nucleic acids from museum archive specimens. Firstly, we amplified and sequenced the V1–V3 regions of the 16S rRNA gene of these specimens, then we utilized the generated sequences to shed light on the microbial diversity associated with seven families of corals collected from depth in the Coral Sea (depth range 1309 to 2959 m) and Southern Ocean (depth range 1401 to 2071 m) benthic habitats. Surprisingly, Cyanobacteria sequences were consistently associated with six out of seven coral families from both sampling locations, suggesting that these bacteria are potentially ubiquitous members of the microbiome within these cold and deep sea water corals. Additionally, we show that Cnidaria might benefit from symbiotic associations with a range of chemosynthetic bacteria including nitrite, carbon monoxide and sulfur oxidizers. Consistent with previous studies, we show that sequences associated with the bacterial phyla Proteobacteria, Verrucomicrobia, Planctomycetes and Acidobacteriota dominated the microbial community of corals in the deep sea. We also explored genomes of the bacterial genus Mycoplasma, which we identified as associated with specimens of three deep sea coral families, finding evidence that these bacteria may aid the host immune system. Importantly our results show that museum specimens retain components of host microbiome that can provide new insights into the diversity of deep sea coral microbiomes (and potentially other organisms), as well as the diversity of microbes writ large in deep sea ecosystems.

Gut microbiota variations in wild yellow baboons (Papio cynocephalus) are associated with sex and habitat disturbance

Although male and female mammals differ in biological traits and functional needs, the contribution of this sexual dimorphism to variations in gut bacteria and fungi (gut microbiota) in relation to habitat type has not been fully examined. To understand whether the combination of sex and habitat affects gut microbiota variation, we analyzed 40 fecal samples of wild yellow baboons (Papio cynocephalus) living in contrasting habitat types (intact, well-protected vs. fragmented, less protected forests) in the Udzungwa Mountains of Tanzania. Sex determination was performed using the marker genes SRY (Sex-determining Region Y) and DDX3X-DDX3Y (DEAD-Box Helicase 3). Samples were attributed to 34 individuals (19 females and 15 males) belonging to five social groups. Combining the results of sex determination with two amplicon sequencing datasets on bacterial (V1–V3 region of the 16S rRNA gene) and fungal (ITS2) gut communities, we found that overall, baboon females had a significantly higher gut bacterial richness compared to males. Beta diversity estimates indicated that bacterial composition was significantly different between males and females, and this was true for individuals from both well- and less protected forests. Our results highlight the combined role of sex and habitat type in shaping variation in gut microbial communities in wild non-human primates.

Response of Bread Wheat Cultivars to Deficient Irrigation: a Morphological and Molecular Study

During the agricultural season of 2022-2023, a field experiment was conducted at the second agricultural experiment station of the College of Agriculture - Al-Muthanna University in the Al-Bandar area (3 km from the city center) to study the molecular and phenotypic response of bread wheat cultivars to the effect of incomplete irrigation. An experiment was conducted using the Randomised Complete Block Design with split plots and three replications, the primary plots included the deficient irrigation factor, coded: D1 control, D2 tillering stage, D3 elongation stage, and D4 booting stage, while the secondary plots included cultivars and were coded V1 Mawada, V2 Bohuth22, V3 Baraka, and V4 IBAA99. The statistical analysis revealed that there were significant differences between the water stress stages. The D1 treatment produced superior spike length (13.17) cm. Regarding cultivars, the cultivar Baraka excelled in the majority of field characteristics, including spike length (17.09) cm, leaf area (42.33) cm2, number of grains per spike (67.78) grains spike-1 and grain weight (61.02) g. While the cultivar Mawadah excelled in the number of days up to 50% flowering (88.50), plant height (93.17), and spike m-2 yield (364.4), the cultivar IPA99 excelled in the number of spikes (364.4). Regarding the interpenetrate, it had a significant effect on the majority of the traits, as treatment D1V2 excelled in the number of spikes (396.7) spike m-2, while treatment D1V3 excelled in the number of grains per spike (76.11) grains spike-1 and treatment D1V4 excelled in grain yield (7.30) ton ha-1. The combination D4V1 was also superior in terms of the number of spikes m-2 (408.3). The D4V4 treatment produced a superior grain yield (8.54) ton ha-1. The results of the molecular analysis by ISSR-PCR technique indicated that the primer (HB13) had 33 bands, and the primer (HB14) had 40 bands. Electrophoresis on agarose gel revealed that the primer (HB15) recorded the highest number of bands with 57 bands, 41 differentiated and 16 common, representing the main binding sites.

Uterine microbial profiles in healthy postpartum dairy cows do not vary with sampling techniques or phases of estrous cycle

In this study, we aimed to compare uterine microbial profiles in postpartum dairy cows, determined by bacteriological culture and next-generation sequencing, using three uterine sampling techniques (swab, cytobrush, and lavage) and induced phases of the estrous cycle (estrus and diestrus). Fifteen healthy postpartum dairy cows at 53 ± 5 days postpartum were enrolled in the study. Uterine samples were collected during a fixed-time artificial insemination protocol. Viable bacteria were aerobically cultured from part of each sample, and bacterial isolates were identified through Sanger sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene. Total genomic DNA was extracted from the remainder of undiluted samples to quantify bacterial load using 16S rRNA qPCR and characterize the microbiome by metagenomic sequencing of the V1–V3 region of the 16S rRNA gene. Microbial profiles and composition were analyzed using the Shannon-Weaver diversity index and principal component analysis, respectively. Out of 87 samples, 88 % (77/87) were culture positive. The proportion of culture-positive uterine samples did not differ between sampling techniques (P = 0.39) or estrous cycle phases (P = 0.99). However, swab, cytobrush, and lavage techniques yielded 1.5, 9 and 9 times greater bacterial loads (P < 0.01), respectively, during diestrus than estrus phase. Moreover, during diestrus phase, the cytobrush method yielded 3 and 6 times more bacteria (P < 0.01) than both the lavage and swab methods. The most abundant bacterial genera identified from both bacteriological culture and metagenomic sequencing were Bacillus and Enterococcus, regardless of sampling technique or phases of the estrous cycle. Bacterial genera in moderate to low abundance through metagenomic sequencing included Streptococcus, Oscillospiraceae, and Lachnospiraceae. Notably, the uterine microbial profiles and composition, determined by metagenomic sequencing, did not differ by sampling techniques (P = 0.55 and P = 0.60, respectively) or estrous cycle phases (P = 0.34 and P = 0.17, respectively). In conclusion, our results suggest that any of the sampling techniques can be reliably used to study the uterine microbiome of healthy cows at random phases of the estrous cycle. However, it is important to consider potential differences in bacterial yield as a confounding factor.

Clinical outcomes of 10 years of cardiac screening in elite New Zealand athletes

ObjectivesTo report findings from the High Performance Sport New Zealand cardiac screening programme, including comparisons between sexes and ethnicities. DesignRetrospective cohort study. MethodsElite Olympic-sport athletes were screened (2012–2022) with personal/family history, physical examination, resting 12-lead ECG and followed from the date of first screening until July 2022. An audit reviewed screening records, including demographic data, ECGs, follow-up and diagnoses. Flagged/equivocal ECGs were re-reviewed (International Criteria). Results2075 ECGs from 1189 athletes (53 % female, mean age 21 years; 83 % European, 9 % Māori, 5 % Pacific Islander, 3 % other) were included. No athletes retired for cardiac reasons; there were no cardiac deaths or major cardiac incidents (mean follow-up from first screening: 6.1 years (range: 0.6–10.9 years)). Diagnoses included Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome (0.7 %) and cardiomyopathies (0.3 %). Overall, 3.5 % of ECGs were abnormal, with ECGs of females more commonly abnormal (4.4 % vs 2.5 %, p = 0.02) and with a higher proportion of ECGs with abnormal T-wave inversion (TWI) (3.1 % vs 0.9 %, p < 0.001) compared to males. Of the abnormal TWI in females (all aged ≥16 years), 47 % was limited to V1–V3 with no other abnormalities. Abnormality rates were similar between Māori, Pacific Islander and European athlete ECGs. ConclusionsWPW was the most frequent diagnosis, with very little cardiomyopathy found. The proportion of abnormal ECGs was low overall, but higher in females. This was driven by anterior TWI in V1–V3 which was not associated with diagnoses of conditions associated with sudden cardiac death (SCD). There was no difference in the proportion of abnormal ECGs of Māori or Pacific Island athletes compared to European athletes.

The Heart Has its Reasons Which Reason Knows Not: A Curious Case of Chest Pain

BackgroundElectrocardiographic (ECG) findings of T-wave inversions in V1–V3, with or without accompanying epsilon waves, often raise concerns for the rare, but potentially lethal, arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC). However, this pattern may be found in pericardial agenesis, an even rarer pathology. Concomitant myocarditis can confuse this presentation further. Case ReportWe report a case of a previously healthy man who presented with left-sided chest pain, ECG findings suggestive of ARVC, and a final diagnosis of myocarditis with underlying partial pericardial agenesis. Why Should an Emergency Physician Be Aware of This?A growing number of cases have reported pericardial agenesis demonstrating ECG changes similar to ARVC. We discuss an approach to a diagnostically challenging patient. This case emphasizes the importance of a broad differential and the danger of premature closure.

Investigation of layer-specific BOLD signal in the human visual cortex during visual attention

Directing spatial attention towards a particular stimulus location enhances cortical responses at corresponding regions in cortex. How attention modulates the laminar response profile within the attended region remains unclear, however. In this paper, we use high-field (7T) functional magnetic resonance imaging to investigate the effects of attention on laminar activity profiles in areas V1–V3 both when a stimulus was presented to the observer and in the absence of visual stimulation. Replicating previous findings, we find robust increases in the overall BOLD response for attended regions in cortex, both with and without visual stimulation. When analysing the BOLD response across the individual layers in visual cortex, we observed no evidence for laminar-specific differentiation with attention. We offer several potential explanations for these results, including theoretical, methodological and technical reasons. Additionally, we provide all data and pipelines openly in order to promote analytic consistency across layer-specific studies and improve reproducibility.

Application periods against diceraeus (dichelops) melacanthus on maize and their significant response on damage and grain yield in the Brazilian Midwest

Diceraeus melacanthus (Dallas, 1851) (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) remains one of the primary pests in maize nowadays in Brazil, causing significant losses in production. Different insecticide application periods against this pest were performed, and the following parameters were evaluated the plant damage, maize yield and an economic analysis was conducted using these two parameters. The experiment was performed in two growing seasons (2021 and 2022) in a two-factor scheme, with five insecticide application periods: zero (untreated); V1–V3; V1–V3 + V3–V4; V1–V3 + V3–V4 + V4–V6, and V1–V3 + V3–V4 + V4–V6 + V6–V7; and three insecticides: acephate (Perito - 970 g a. i./kg SG - 1,0 kg/ha), thiamethoxam + lambda-cyhalothrin (Engeo Pleno S - 141 + 106 g a. i./L ZC - 0,3 L/ha) and ethiprole (Curbix - 200 g a. i./L SC - 0,75 L/ha). There was a significant difference for the isolated factors of growing season, evaluation stages, application periods and insecticides for the number of plants with damage rating ≥2. Curbix, Engeo Pleno and Perito showed the maximum reduction of damage in maize plants with application periods at V1–V3 + V3–V4 + V4–V6 and V1–V3 + V3–V4 + V4–V6 + V6–V7, presenting 3.2 and 2.9 plants with damage rating ≥2, respectively. Evaluations between the V7 and V8 stages showed a negative correlation with maize yield (Cor = −0.712 at V7 and -0.537 at V8). Regardless of the insecticide used, the V1–V3 + V3–V4 + V4–V6 + V6–V7 application period had the highest productivity, with an average of 4660 kg/ha, differing 681.8 kg/ha and net income of $ 30,3/ha from the uncontrolled plots. Additionally, every 5 days of an application period increased the yield in 178,9 kg/ha or 35 kg/ha daily. Therefore, the use of control tactics from V1–V3 to V6–V7 of maize plants contributes significantly to the reduction of damage, the increase of productivity and a higher net income.

O-238 Artificial intelligence algorithms in assisted reproduction: differences in the evaluation of embryos from fresh or vitrified donor oocytes

Abstract Study question Do the Embryoscope and EmbryoscopePlus systems' built-in software evaluate differently embryos from vitrified or fresh oocytes? Summary answer The embryo scores provided by artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms are lower for embryos originated from vitrified/warmed oocytes than for those that come from fresh oocytes. What is known already Time-lapse technology has enabled embryologists to develop several AI-based tools that allow the automation and standardization of embryo quality assessment. EmbryoScope and EmbryoScopePlus systems include deep learning-based models using only time-lapse image sequences (iDAScore v1.0 and v.2.0) and the machine learning-based model (KIDScore D5 v3) which classifies embryos in categories based on cleavage time points and blastocyst appearance. It has been reported that fertilization, pregnancy and implantation rates in vitrified oocytes are comparable to those of fresh oocytes. To our knowledge, this is the first study to test whether artificial intelligence tools assess embryos derived from these oocytes differently. Study design, size, duration This retrospective study includes the analysis of 34950 videos of embryos from fresh and vitrified donor oocytes. Embryos were cultured on EmbryoScope and EmbryoScopePlus Time Lapse systems and morphological and morphokinetic parameters were automatically detected by EmbryoViewer software. Senior embryologists routinely evaluated the embryos according to the ASEBIR criteria. In addition, embryos were graded using IDAScore v1, IDAScore v2 and KIDScoreD5 algorithms in different scores from low to high quality (1-9.9). Participants/materials, setting, methods The scores of embryos from fresh or vitrified donor oocytes obtained with the different algorithms were compared. Specifically, 21533 embryos from fresh and 12710 from vitrified oocytes with the IDAScore v1; 21335 from fresh and 12705 from vitrified with the IDAScore v2; and 13544 from fresh and 6559 from vitrified with the KIDScore v3. In addition, the ASEBIR evaluation performed by embryologists was also compared between embryos from fresh (21968) and vitrified oocytes (12980). Main results and the role of chance Mean scores of embryos coming from fresh oocytes from IDAScore v1, IDAScore v2 and KIDScore v3 were 5.34 ± 2.91, 3.48 ± 2.93, 5.13 ± 2.1 respectively. And mean scores of those from vitrified oocytes were 5.09 ± 2.83, 3.1 ± 2.71, 4.99 ± 2.01. Thus, mean embryo scores obtained by the 3 artificial intelligence algorithms were significantly higher* for embryos from fresh oocytes compared to those from vitrified oocytes. However, this lower embryo assessment of those from vitrified oocytes was not detected when comparing embryo quality according to ASEBIR classification. We hypothesized that it might be because several embryos that had not reached blastocyst stage on D6 were included in this comparison. Comparisons were repeated excluding these embryos, mean scores of embryos from fresh oocytes from IDAScore v1, IDAScore v2 and KIDScore v3 were 7.31 ± 2.12, 5.15 ± 2.79, 5.18 ± 2.07 respectively. Mean scores of those from vitrified oocytes were 7.14 ± 2.12, 4.75 ± 2.70, 5.01 ± 2.01. Again, mean scores of embryos from fresh oocytes were significantly higher* than those from vitrified oocytes. In this analysis, this significant difference* in embryo score was also detected according to the ASEBIR classification. *p&amp;lt;.05 Limitations, reasons for caution This project is limited by its retrospective and single-center nature. A multicenter study could be performed to determine whether these minimal but significant differences in the evaluation of embryos from fresh or warmed oocytes have any impact on clinical outcome. Wider implications of the findings This study shows that embryos from vitrified oocytes have significantly lower scores than those from fresh oocytes. The embryo assessment performed in this study is based on AI models that allow their instantaneous, non-invasive, accurate and objective evaluation. Thus, the impact of these differences on clinical outcome, should be analyzed. Trial registration number not applicable

Comparative Microbial Community Analysis of Fur Seals and Aquaculture Salmon Gut Microbiomes in Tasmania

In Tasmania, Australian fur seals (Arctocephalus pusillus doriferus) regularly interact with Atlantic salmon (Salmo salmar L.) aquaculture lease operations and opportunistically consume fish. The microbial communities of seals and aquaculture salmon were analyzed for potential indicators of microbial sharing and to determine the potential effects of interactions on wild seal microbiome composition. The high-throughput sequencing of the V1–V3 region of the 16S rRNA genes from the gut microbial communities of 221 fur seals was performed: 41 males caught at farms, 50 adult scats from haul-outs near farms, 24 necropsied seals, and controls from Bass Strait breeding colonies, encompassing 56 adult scats and 50 pup swabs. QIIME2 and R Studio were used for analysis. Foraging at or near salmon farms significantly shifted seal microbiome biodiversity. Taxonomic analysis showed a greater divergence in Bacteroidota representatives in male seals captured at farms compared to all other groups. Pathogens were identified that could be monitoring targets. Potential indicator amplicon sequence variants were found across a variety of taxa and could be used as minimally invasive indicators for interactions at this interface. The diversity and taxonomic shifts in the microbial communities of seals indicate a need to further study this interface for broader ecological implications.

Precordial reverse pattern break on ECG: could it be a discriminator endo/epicardial ablation site of left posteroseptal accessory pathways

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Backrounds The posteroseptal (PS) region may pose difficulty in WPW ablation due to its complex anatomical structure. The posteroseptal region may require the need for a transeptal puncture, CS venogram or coronary angiography due to its right and left endocardial and epicardial proximity. ECG prediction may prevent unnecessary procedures. Negative V1 double QRS transition pattern in the precordial leads is highly specific and validated for a right endocardial AP Purpose To investigate the presence of a reverse pattern break in the left posteroseptal [V1 (+) V3 (+)] WPW patient and compare between endocardial-epicardial ablation localization. Methods We retrospectively included 338 WPW patients into the study. 97 of them successfully ablated with posteroseptal area. Results Thirty-two of the total PS patient (33%) patients had a reverse pattern break or double transition pattern. A total of 4 patients with the middle cardiac vein (MCV) and diverticulum origin were identified. The left pattern break predicts endocardial localization 75% of the time while the right pattern predicts it 95% of the time. Conclusion Double transition and reverse pattern break are common in posteroseptal AP’s ECG. Left reverse pattern break is also highly predictive of endocardial ablation, similar to the right.

P242 CARDIOGENIC SHOCK WITH ISCHEMIC PHENOTYPE SECONDARY TO INCESSANT VENTRICULAR TACHYCARDIA: A CALL FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF HUB–AND–SPOKE MODEL

Abstract A 55–years–old patient presents to emergency room with extensive anterior STEMI, complicated by acute pulmonary edema. The ECG showed sinusal tachycardia, Q waves in V1–V3, ST elevation &amp;gt;2mm V2–V6. The echocardiogram showed akinesia of the apex and anterolateral wall with severe reduction of contractile function (LVEF 30%). The patient was treated with CPAP, dual antiplatelet therapy and diuretics; the urgent coronary angiography showed three–vessel disease with occlusion of the proximal LAD, treated with PCI and two drug–eluting stents implantation. 48 after admission to ICU, the patient developed "combined" shock (IC↓ RVS↓ WP↑), sustained by both severe cardiac dysfunction and a septic complication, requiring inotropes and targeted antibiotic therapy (noradrenaline 0.02 gamma/Kg/min and piperacillin/tazobactam i.v). At 96 hours there was a recovery of contractile function and haemodynamics (CI from 1.8 to 2.7). Weaned from inotropes, he began therapy with low doses of ACE inhibitor, beta blocker, antialdosteronic. On the 7th day of hospitalization, without ischemic and/or electrolyte "triggers", the patient developed "arrhythmic storm" with incessant sustained ventricular tachycardias. Arrhythmias persisted despite antiarrhythmics (magnesium sulfate, amiodarone, lidocaine), IOT, sedation, mechanical ventilation. The temporary pacemaker for overdrive pacing was placed in. After placement of IABP, the patient underwent revascularization of residual coronary artery stenosis. Despite 1 hour of assistance (ABLS), incessant ventricular tachycardia persisted; a third–level center for VA–ECMO inside support was called. After positioning VA–ECMO there was progressive clinical stabilization and –concomitantly– a progressive reduction of ventricular tachycardias. ECMO support was needed for over 7 days due to persistence of arrhythmic storm; it was slowly weaned with stabilization of the patient; an AICD was implanted. Residual function of the left ventricle was mild reduced (LVEF40%) despite protracted CPR. There wasn’t residual cognitive impairment. Implementation of multidisciplinary teams in the spoke centers would improve protocols and early treatments in patients with cardiogenic shock; spoke centers would provide early access to life–saving therapies and safe transfer to hub centers.