Kinematic partitioning in the Southern Andes (39° S–46° S) inferred from lineament analysis and reassessment of exhumation rates

The Southern Andes are often viewed as a classic example for kinematic partitioning of oblique plate convergence into components of continental margin-parallel strike-slip and transverse shortening. In this regard, the Liquiñe-Ofqui Fault Zone, one of Earth’s most prominent intra-arc deformation zones, is believed to be the most important crustal discontinuity in the Southern Andes taking up margin-parallel dextral strike-slip. Recent structural studies, however, are at odds with this simple concept of kinematic partitioning, due to the presence of margin-oblique and a number of other margin-parallel intra-arc deformation zones. However, knowledge on the extent of such zones in the Southern Andes is still limited. Here, we document traces of prominent structural discontinuities (lineaments) from the Southern Andes between 39° S and 46° S. In combination with compiled low-temperature thermochronology data and interpolation of respective exhumation rates, we revisit the issue of kinematic partitioning in the Southern Andes. Exhumation rates are maximal in the central parts of the orogen and discontinuity traces, trending predominantly N–S, WNW–ESE and NE–SW, are distributed across the entire width of the orogen. Notably, discontinuities coincide spatially with large gradients in Neogene exhumation rates and separate crustal domains characterized by uniform exhumation. Collectively, these relationships point to significant components of vertical displacement on these discontinuities, in addition to horizontal displacements known from published structural studies. Our results agree with previously documented Neogene shortening in the Southern Andes and indicate orogen-scale transpression with maximal vertical extrusion of rocks in the center of the transpression zone. The lineament and thermochronology data call into question the traditional view of kinematic partitioning in the Southern Andes, in which deformation is focused on the Liquiñe-Ofqui Fault Zone.

Gene Expression Profiling of Pancreas Neuroendocrine Tumors with Different Ki67-Based Grades

Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs) display variable aggressive behavior. A major predictor of survival is tumor grade based on the Ki67 proliferation index. As information on transcriptomic profiles of PanNETs with different tumor grades is limited, we investigated 29 PanNETs (17 G1, 7 G2, 5 G3) for their expression profiles, mutations in 16 PanNET relevant genes and LINE-1 DNA methylation profiles. A total of 3050 genes were differentially expressed between tumors with different grades (p < 0.05): 1279 in G3 vs. G2; 2757 in G3 vs. G1; and 203 in G2 vs. G1. Mutational analysis showed 57 alterations in 11 genes, the most frequent being MEN1 (18/29), DAXX (7/29), ATRX (6/29) and MUTYH (5/29). The presence and type of mutations did not correlate with the specific expression profiles associated with different grades. LINE-1 showed significantly lower methylation in G2/G3 versus G1 tumors (p = 0.007). The expression profiles of matched primaries and metastasis (nodal, hepatic and colorectal wall) of three cases confirmed the role of Ki67 in defining specific expression profiles, which clustered according to tumor grades, independently from anatomic location or patient of origin. Such data call for future exploration of the role of Ki67 in tumor progression, given its involvement in chromosomal stability.

Set and Setting: A Randomized Study of Different Musical Genres in Supporting Psychedelic Therapy

Mounting evidence supports the serotonin 2A receptor agonist psilocybin as a psychiatric pharmacotherapy. Little research has experimentally examined how session “set and setting” impacts subjective and therapeutic effects. We analyzed effects of musical genre played during sessions of a psilocybin study for tobacco smoking cessation. Participants (N=10) received psilocybin (20-30mg/70kg) in two sessions, each with a different genre (Western classical versus overtone-based), with order counterbalanced. Participants chose one genre for a third session (30mg/70kg). Mystical experiences scores tended to be higher in overtone-based than Western classical sessions. Six of ten participants chose overtone-based music for a third session. Biologically-confirmed smoking abstinence was similar based on musical choice, with a slight benefit for participants choosing the overtone-based playlist (66.7% versus 50%). These data call into question whether Western classical music typically used in psychedelic therapy holds unique benefit. Broadly, they call for experimentally examining session components toward optimizing psychedelic therapeutic protocols.

Old Korean and Proto-Korean *r and *l Revisited

This article argues for new internal evidence for the existence of the contrast between *r and *l in Old Korean and Proto-Korean on the basis of the Hyangchal data and Old Japanese transcriptional glosses as well as Korean loanwords in Manchu and Jurchen that were not analyzed in this way before. Namely, I will argue that combined Old Korean and Middle Korean data call for the reconstruction of two different types of liquids in the position before *i: both stay intact in Old Korean, but in Middle Korean the first type undergoes elision, whereas the second type stays intact. I then attempt to identify these two types on the basis of the internal evidence and parallel phenomena attested in the Greater Manchuria linguistic area and elsewhere.

Knowledge, attitude and practices regarding the use of medical cannabis: A national survey among Israeli oncologists.

e24125 Background: Despite lack of clinical trials reporting on beneficial effects of the cannabis plant for cancer-associated symptoms, its use is increasing worldwide. Approximately 10,000 Israeli cancer patients receive permits for the use of medical cannabis, making cannabis one of the most commonly prescribed oncology treatments in Israel and making the Israeli oncologists highly experienced with its use. The experience gained by the Israeli oncologists is therefore highly valuable. Methods: We conducted a web-based survey among all 238 Israeli oncologists, addressing personal experience; knowledge and attitudes toward the use of cannabis in oncology. Results: Response rate was 54% (n = 126), with the vast majority (87%) regularly prescribing cannabis to their patients. Anorexia, pain and nausea were the most common indications for cannabis use. While 90% of responders stated lack of sufficient knowledge regarding cannabis, its use was perceived as effective and safe. Interestingly, while most oncologists stated that opioids should be used as a first line treatment for cancer pain, most would prefer cannabis for pain relief if needed by a close relative. Oncologists who support cannabis legalization were more likely to prescribe it. Conclusions: Our findings indicate extensive use and perception of medical cannabis despite lack of knowledge, and support about efficacy and indicate a unique role for moral attitudes affecting clinical decisions. These data call for the implementation of an educational program and practical guidelines enabling more consistent and rational approach toward cannabis role in oncology.