upi--2020-12-31--Man files lawsuit over 'Hawaiian rolls' not being made in Hawaii

Dec. 31 ( UPI ) -- A New York state man filed a class action lawsuit against the makers of King 's Hawaiian sweet rolls , alleging the company misled him into believing the California-manufactured sweet rolls are made in Hawaii .
Robert Galinsky of Yonkers said in his lawsuit against King 's Hawaiian that the packaging prominently features `` Hilo , Hawaii '' on the front , but the back reveals they are actually made in Torrance , Calif. Galinsky said the packaging misled him into purchasing the product , believing the rolls to be made in Hawaii .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the leading seller of Hawaiian Rolls and essentially invented this category of food , '' and cites incidents of the company taking legal action against other manufacturers for using the phrase `` Hawaiian rolls '' in marketing .
The King 's Hawaiian website states the rolls were created by Robert Taira in the 1950s , when he opened Robert 's Bakery in Hilo .
The company was renamed to King 's Bakery when it later expanded to Honolulu , and the business eventually closed to Torrance .
King 's Hawaiian has yet to @ @ @ @ @ @

Robert Galinsky of Yonkers, N.Y., filed a class-action lawsuit against King's Hawaiian, alleging the company's packaging misled him into thinking the California-produced sweet rolls he was purchasing were manufactured in Hawaii. Photo by hawaiianfoodrecipe/Wikimedia Commons
Subscribe | UPI Odd Newsletter Subscribe Dec. 31 (UPI) -- A New York state man filed a class action lawsuit against the makers of King's Hawaiian sweet rolls, alleging the company misled him into believing the California-manufactured sweet rolls are made in Hawaii. Robert Galinsky of Yonkers said in his lawsuit against King's Hawaiian that the packaging prominently features "Hilo, Hawaii" on the front, but the back reveals they are actually made in Torrance, Calif. Advertisement
Galinsky said the packaging misled him into purchasing the product, believing the rolls to be made in Hawaii.
The lawsuit states the company "is the leading seller of Hawaiian Rolls and essentially invented this category of food," and cites incidents of the company taking legal action against other manufacturers for using the phrase "Hawaiian rolls" in marketing.
The King's Hawaiian website states the rolls were created by Robert Taira in the 1950s, when he opened Robert's Bakery in Hilo. The company was renamed to King's Bakery when it later expanded to Honolulu, and the business eventually closed to Torrance.
King's Hawaiian has yet to publicly respond to the lawsuit.


upi--2020-12-31--Offenders hack smart home devices for 'swatting' incidents, FBI warns

Dec. 31 ( UPI ) -- The Federal Bureau of Investigation warned Thursday of a risk of smart home devices with cameras and voice capabilities being hacked for `` swatting '' incidents .
The FBI warned users of such devices in a public service announcement to enable two-factor authentication on the devices to help protect against `` swatting '' attacks from offenders using stolen email passwords to hack into them .
`` Users should enable two-factor authentication for their online accounts and on all devices accessible through an Internet connection in order to reduce the chance a criminal could access @ @ @ @ @ @ @ announcement read .
`` It is highly recommended that the user 's second factor for two-factor or multi-factor authentication be a mobile device number and not a secondary email account . ''
Swatting is a hoax 911 call usually reporting an immediate threat to human life to get law enforcement and special weapons and tactics team to respond to a specific location , according the FBI .
It may be motivated by revenge , harassment or a prank , but it may also pull law enforcement 's attention away from real emergencies , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have deadly consequences .
`` Recently , offenders have been using victims ' smart devices , including video and audio capable home surveillance devices , to carry out swatting attacks , '' the PSA read .
`` To gain access to the smart devices , offenders are likely taking advantage of customers who re-use their email passwords for their smart device .
The offenders use stolen email passwords to log into the smart device and hijack features , including the live stream camera and device features . ''
`` As law enforcement responds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the live stream footage and engages with the responding police though cameras and speakers , '' the FBI added .
`` In some cases , the offender also live streams the incident on shared online community platforms . ''
The FBI also advised users of smart home devices with cameras or voice capabilities to use `` strong , complex passwords , '' and not duplicate passwords between different online accounts .
The first known live-streamed swatting incidents date back to the mid-2010s , but the devices back then were n't being hacked , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spoofing technology '' to make it look like the call is coming from the victim 's phone number , according to the FBI public service announcement .
The FBI is working with device manufacturers to advise customers about the new scheme and how to avoid being victimized , along with working with law enforcement first responders .
Device manufacturers recently notified law enforcement of offenders using stolen email passwords for the swatting attacks .

The FBI warned Thursday of offenders hacking certain home devices for swatting attacks. File Photo by Terry Schmitt/UPI | License Photo
Dec. 31 (UPI) -- The Federal Bureau of Investigation warned Thursday of a risk of smart home devices with cameras and voice capabilities being hacked for "swatting" incidents. The FBI warned users of such devices in a public service announcement to enable two-factor authentication on the devices to help protect against "swatting" attacks from offenders using stolen email passwords to hack into them. Advertisement
"Users should enable two-factor authentication for their online accounts and on all devices accessible through an Internet connection in order to reduce the chance a criminal could access their devices," the public service announcement read. "It is highly recommended that the user's second factor for two-factor or multi-factor authentication be a mobile device number and not a secondary email account."
Swatting is a hoax 911 call usually reporting an immediate threat to human life to get law enforcement and special weapons and tactics team to respond to a specific location, according the FBI. It may be motivated by revenge, harassment or a prank, but it may also pull law enforcement's attention away from real emergencies, confuse homeowners and officers, and potentially have deadly consequences.
"Recently, offenders have been using victims' smart devices, including video and audio capable home surveillance devices, to carry out swatting attacks," the PSA read. "To gain access to the smart devices, offenders are likely taking advantage of customers who re-use their email passwords for their smart device. The offenders use stolen email passwords to log into the smart device and hijack features, including the live stream camera and device features."
Advertisement
"As law enforcement responds to the residence, the offender watches the live stream footage and engages with the responding police though cameras and speakers," the FBI added. "In some cases, the offender also live streams the incident on shared online community platforms."
The FBI also advised users of smart home devices with cameras or voice capabilities to use "strong, complex passwords," and not duplicate passwords between different online accounts.
The first known live-streamed swatting incidents date back to the mid-2010s, but the devices back then weren't being hacked, ZDNET reported.
Offenders have used "spoofing technology" to make it look like the call is coming from the victim's phone number, according to the FBI public service announcement.
The FBI is working with device manufacturers to advise customers about the new scheme and how to avoid being victimized, along with working with law enforcement first responders. Device manufacturers recently notified law enforcement of offenders using stolen email passwords for the swatting attacks.


upi--2020-12-31--Florida Gators QB Kyle Trask to enter 2021 NFL Draft

Dec. 31 ( UPI ) -- Florida Gators quarterback and Heisman Trophy finalist Kyle Trask announced Thursday on social media that he will enter the upcoming NFL Draft .
Trask 's decision comes less than 24 hours after the Gators ' 55-20 blowout loss to the Oklahoma Sooners in the Cotton Bowl .
In that game , the senior signal-caller tossed three interceptions while playing without his top four pass-catchers .
`` I feel that it 's best to chase my dreams of playing in the NFL , '' Trask said in a video posted on Twitter .
`` I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NFL ever since I was a kid .
Just to have this opportunity to play at the next level , it 's crazy and I 'm going to try and go and make the most of it . ''
Trask set school records for passing yards ( 4,283 ) and passing touchdowns ( 43 ) in the 2020 season and guided the Gators to the SEC title game .
In the 2019 campaign , he completed 66.9 % of his passes for 2,941 yards with 25 touchdowns and seven interceptions .
The 22-year-old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Florida since Tim Tebow in 2009 .
The Heisman winner will be announced Jan. 5 in a virtual ceremony .
`` I could n't be prouder of him and the season that he had with our team this year .
A special , special year for him , '' Florida head coach Dan Mullen said after the Gators ' loss to Oklahoma on Wednesday .
`` I 'm really happy for him .
`` I mean , you 're talking about a young guy that came in , I think only played @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he even graduated college .
Did n't play much in high school .
And now he 's a Heisman Trophy finalist and he 's going to be an NFL draft pick .
So that says a lot about him . ''
ESPN currently ranks Trask as the No .
6 quarterback available in the 2021 draft class .

Florida Gators quarterback Kyle Trask (L) throws a pass against the Oklahoma Sooners during the first half of the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic on Wednesday at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. He tossed three interceptions in the Gators' loss to the Sooners. Photo by Ian Halperin/UPI | License Photo
Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Florida Gators quarterback and Heisman Trophy finalist Kyle Trask announced Thursday on social media that he will enter the upcoming NFL Draft. Trask's decision comes less than 24 hours after the Gators' 55-20 blowout loss to the Oklahoma Sooners in the Cotton Bowl. In that game, the senior signal-caller tossed three interceptions while playing without his top four pass-catchers. Advertisement
"I feel that it's best to chase my dreams of playing in the NFL," Trask said in a video posted on Twitter. "I've had dreams of playing in the NFL ever since I was a kid. Just to have this opportunity to play at the next level, it's crazy and I'm going to try and go and make the most of it."
Trask set school records for passing yards (4,283) and passing touchdowns (43) in the 2020 season and guided the Gators to the SEC title game. In the 2019 campaign, he completed 66.9% of his passes for 2,941 yards with 25 touchdowns and seven interceptions.
Advertisement
The 22-year-old Trask is the first Heisman Trophy finalist for Florida since Tim Tebow in 2009. The Heisman winner will be announced Jan. 5 in a virtual ceremony.
"I couldn't be prouder of him and the season that he had with our team this year. A special, special year for him," Florida head coach Dan Mullen said after the Gators' loss to Oklahoma on Wednesday. "I'm really happy for him.
"I mean, you're talking about a young guy that came in, I think only played a couple plays in his career before he even graduated college. Didn't play much in high school. And now he's a Heisman Trophy finalist and he's going to be an NFL draft pick. So that says a lot about him."
ESPN currently ranks Trask as the No. 6 quarterback available in the 2021 draft class.


upi--2020-12-31--Trump extends pandemic-related halt on international visas

Dec. 30 ( UPI ) -- President Donald Trump extended a suspension of international visas in response to the COVID-19 pandemic .
Trump said restrictions on green cards and various types of work visas during the pandemic -- originally set to expire Thursday -- will remain in place until March 31 .
`` The effects of COVID-19 on the United States labor market and on the health of American communities is a matter of ongoing national concern , '' Trump 's proclamation on Thursday said .
`` The current number of new daily cases worldwide reported by the World Health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than the comparable number presnet during June and while therapeutics and vaccines are recently available for an increasing number of Americans , their effect on the labor market and community health has not yet been fully realized . ''
Trump initially signed an order placing a hold on the issuance of new green cards in April and then expanded it to include H1-B , H-4 , L and most J visas as well as some H2-B visas with an exception for food processing workers in June .
H-1B visas grant temporary work authorizations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are commonly utilized in the tech industry , while H-4 visas are issued to immediate family members of people who hold H-1B visas .
Issuances of H-1B visas are currently capped to 85,000 annually .
H-2 visas provide temporary work for agriculture , construction , forestry and other industries ; L visas are for temporary intracompany transfers who serve in management positions or have specialized knowledge ; and J visas are provided for study-based exchange visitor programs .
The order extends the restrictions on visas well beyond when President-elect Joe Biden is set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to reverse many of Trump 's immigration policies , including travel bans from majority-Muslim countries and policies separating children from parents at the border .
He 's also vowed to reform the visa system and restore refugee admissions to their levels prior to Trump 's presidency .

President Donald Trump indefinitely extended a halt on new green cards and other work visas that was originally set to expire on Thursday. Pool photo by Doug Mills/UPI | License Photo
Dec. 30 (UPI) -- President Donald Trump extended a suspension of international visas in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Trump said restrictions on green cards and various types of work visas during the pandemic -- originally set to expire Thursday -- will remain in place until March 31. Advertisement
"The effects of COVID-19 on the United States labor market and on the health of American communities is a matter of ongoing national concern," Trump's proclamation on Thursday said. "The current number of new daily cases worldwide reported by the World Health Organization, for example, is higher than the comparable number presnet during June and while therapeutics and vaccines are recently available for an increasing number of Americans, their effect on the labor market and community health has not yet been fully realized."
Trump initially signed an order placing a hold on the issuance of new green cards in April and then expanded it to include H1-B, H-4, L and most J visas as well as some H2-B visas with an exception for food processing workers in June.
H-1B visas grant temporary work authorizations to people with highly specialized knowledge and are commonly utilized in the tech industry, while H-4 visas are issued to immediate family members of people who hold H-1B visas. Issuances of H-1B visas are currently capped to 85,000 annually.
Advertisement
H-2 visas provide temporary work for agriculture, construction, forestry and other industries; L visas are for temporary intracompany transfers who serve in management positions or have specialized knowledge; and J visas are provided for study-based exchange visitor programs.
The order extends the restrictions on visas well beyond when President-elect Joe Biden is set to take office.
Biden has pledged to reverse many of Trump's immigration policies, including travel bans from majority-Muslim countries and policies separating children from parents at the border. He's also vowed to reform the visa system and restore refugee admissions to their levels prior to Trump's presidency.


upi--2020-01-30--Israel Aerospace Industries nabs $240 million for T-38 replacement wings

Jan. 30 ( UPI ) -- Israel Aerospace Industries received a $ 240 million contract for replacement wings for the @ @ @ @ @ Department of Defense said .
The deal was the result of a competitive bid process @ @ @ @ @ .
The Northrop T-38 Talon , which was entered into service in 1961 , was @ @ @ @ @ trainer at the time of its introduction .
The aircraft ceased production in 1972 , @ @ @ @ @ currently operational as trainer planes .
Student pilots fly the T-38A to learn supersonic techniques @ @ @ @ @ night and instrument flying and cross-country navigation , according to the Navy .
Northrop Grumman @ @ @ @ @ million contract in April 2019 for work on replacement wings , intended to extend the @ @ @ @ @ IAI has participated in the T-38 wing upgrade program since at least 2015 , when @ @ @ @ @ wing for the aircraft .
Work will be performed in Lod , Israel and is @ @ @ @ @ January 2033 .

Wesley Dietrich, 9th Maintenance Operation Squadron aircraft mechanic, runs an air speed test on a T-38 Talon at Beale Air Force Base, Calif. Monday. This week Israel Aerospace Industries received a $240 million contract to replace wings for the aircraft. Photo by Valentina Viglianco/U.S. Air Force
Jan. 30 (UPI) -- Israel Aerospace Industries received a $240 million contract for replacement wings for the T-38 trainer aircraft for the Air Force, the Department of Defense said. The deal was the result of a competitive bid process, with four applications received. Advertisement
The Northrop T-38 Talon, which was entered into service in 1961, was the world's first supersonic trainer at the time of its introduction.
The aircraft ceased production in 1972, but more than 500 are currently operational as trainer planes.
Student pilots fly the T-38A to learn supersonic techniques, aerobatics, formation, night and instrument flying and cross-country navigation, according to the Navy.
Northrop Grumman was awarded a $22 million contract in April 2019 for work on replacement wings, intended to extend the life of the aircraft.
IAI has participated in the T-38 wing upgrade program since at least 2015, when it delivered the first replacement wing for the aircraft.
Work will be performed in Lod, Israel and is expected to be completed by January 2033.


upi--2020-01-30--50 Cent receives the 2,686th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

Jan. 30 ( UPI ) -- Rapper and actor Curtis `` 50 Cent '' Jackson received the 2,686th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Thursday .
Jackson was honored with the star during a ceremony on Hollywood where he was joined by former Starz CEO Chris Albrecht and fellow rapper Eminem .
During his acceptance speech , Jackson thanked Eminem and Dr. Dre who served as mentors in his early rap career .
`` I do n't honestly think my career would have been what it was without their support , '' he said .
Jackson 's first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2003 and debuted at No .
1 on the BIllboard 200 chart , sold 12 million copies worldwide and earned him five Grammy nominations .
He released five albums between 2003 and 2014 and launched his own record label , G-Unit Records , earning nine more Grammy nominations , including a win in 2010 for his appearance on Eminem 's song `` Crack A Bottle . ''
`` I knew that the dude sitting across from me was just different , '' Eminem said of discovering Jackson as a young rapper .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ that if it worked on us then it was going to work on the rest of the world and I 'm glad that we trusted our instincts . ''
Jackson has also appeared in dozens of films and television shows including the semi-autobiographical film Get Rich or Die Tryin ' in 2005 and the Starz series Power , which he produces and stars in .
`` This guy can do something none of his peers have been able to accomplish yet , he can build a major television production company , '' Albrecht @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

1/3
American singer, songwriter, rapper, actor, television producer, entrepreneur and investor Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson received the 2,686th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Thursday. Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI | License Photo
Jan. 30 (UPI) -- Rapper and actor Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson received the 2,686th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Thursday. Jackson was honored with the star during a ceremony on Hollywood where he was joined by former Starz CEO Chris Albrecht and fellow rapper Eminem. Advertisement
During his acceptance speech, Jackson thanked Eminem and Dr. Dre who served as mentors in his early rap career.
"I don't honestly think my career would have been what it was without their support," he said.
Jackson's first album Get Rich or Die Tryin released in 2003 and debuted at No. 1 on the BIllboard 200 chart, sold 12 million copies worldwide and earned him five Grammy nominations.
He released five albums between 2003 and 2014 and launched his own record label, G-Unit Records, earning nine more Grammy nominations, including a win in 2010 for his appearance on Eminem's song "Crack A Bottle."
"I knew that the dude sitting across from me was just different," Eminem said of discovering Jackson as a young rapper. "I think Dre and me knew that if it worked on us then it was going to work on the rest of the world and I'm glad that we trusted our instincts."
Advertisement
Jackson has also appeared in dozens of films and television shows including the semi-autobiographical film Get Rich or Die Tryin' in 2005 and the Starz series Power, which he produces and stars in.
"This guy can do something none of his peers have been able to accomplish yet, he can build a major television production company," Albrecht said of the early success of Power.


upi--2020-01-30--IndyCar, NASCAR driver John Andretti dies at 56 after battle with cancer

Jan. 30 ( UPI ) -- Versatile race-car driver John Andretti , a nephew of racing legend Mario Andretti , died at age 56 after a lengthy battle with colon cancer , Andretti Autosport announced Thursday .
`` It is with the heaviest of hearts we share that John Andretti has today lost his battle with cancer , '' Andretti Autosport said in its statement .
`` John was a loving husband and father , a devoted son and a trusted cousin .
He was a philanthropist , an advocate for the sport , a dedicated teammate , a driven @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` He fought hard and stole back days the disease vowed to take away .
He helped countless others undergo proper screening , and in doing so , saved lives .
We will forever carry with us John 's genuine spirit of helping others first and himself second .
Our prayers today are with Nancy , Jarett , Olivia and Amelia , with our entire family , and with fans worldwide . ''
John Andretti , a Pennsylvania native , followed in his family 's footsteps .
His father , Aldo , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mario , rose to stardom after winning the 1969 Indianapolis 500 and 1978 world championship .
John Andretti 's cousin , Michael , competed in Formula One before turning team owner and winning the Indy 500 five times .
Michael 's son , Marco , finished second at the Indy 500 as a rookie in 2006 and has since finished in the top-five on four occasions at Indianapolis .
Jarett Andretti , John 's son , made his Indy 500 debut last May in Indy Lights .
He finished sixth in the race @ @ @ @ @ @ @ family to race at Indianapolis .
John Andretti made 476 career starts on the Cup and IndyCar circuits , winning three times .
He raced for 17 seasons in NASCAR before retiring in 2010 .
Of his 12 appearances in the Indy 500 , his best finish came in 1991 when he placed fifth .
John Andretti was diagnosed with colon cancer in April 2017 .
He is survived by his wife , Nancy , son Jarett and daughter Olivia .

1/2
John Andretti walks to his car on pit road prior to the NASCAR Coke Zero 400 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla., on July 4, 2009. Photo by Michael Bush/UPI | License Photo
Jan. 30 (UPI) -- Versatile race-car driver John Andretti, a nephew of racing legend Mario Andretti, died at age 56 after a lengthy battle with colon cancer, Andretti Autosport announced Thursday. "It is with the heaviest of hearts we share that John Andretti has today lost his battle with cancer," Andretti Autosport said in its statement. "John was a loving husband and father, a devoted son and a trusted cousin. He was a philanthropist, an advocate for the sport, a dedicated teammate, a driven competitor and most importantly a dear friend. Advertisement
"He fought hard and stole back days the disease vowed to take away. He helped countless others undergo proper screening, and in doing so, saved lives. We will forever carry with us John's genuine spirit of helping others first and himself second. Our prayers today are with Nancy, Jarett, Olivia and Amelia, with our entire family, and with fans worldwide."
John Andretti, a Pennsylvania native, followed in his family's footsteps. His father, Aldo, grew up racing and his uncle, Mario, rose to stardom after winning the 1969 Indianapolis 500 and 1978 world championship.
Advertisement
John Andretti's cousin, Michael, competed in Formula One before turning team owner and winning the Indy 500 five times. Michael's son, Marco, finished second at the Indy 500 as a rookie in 2006 and has since finished in the top-five on four occasions at Indianapolis.
Jarett Andretti, John's son, made his Indy 500 debut last May in Indy Lights. He finished sixth in the race, becoming the seventh member of the family to race at Indianapolis.
Rest In Peace #JohnAndretti. The best godfather. Your passion for Motorsport was admirable. Always the good ones we lose too soon. #checkit4andretti pic.twitter.com/WtpSPDzdsV— Marco Andretti (@MarcoAndretti) January 30, 2020
John Andretti made 476 career starts on the Cup and IndyCar circuits, winning three times. He raced for 17 seasons in NASCAR before retiring in 2010. Of his 12 appearances in the Indy 500, his best finish came in 1991 when he placed fifth.
John Andretti was diagnosed with colon cancer in April 2017. He is survived by his wife, Nancy, son Jarett and daughter Olivia.
Notable deaths of 2020


upi--2020-01-30--Penelope Cruz, Antonio Banderas to film 'Competencia Oficial' in Spain

Jan. 30 ( UPI ) -- Penelope Cruz , Antonio Banderas and Oscar Martínez are scheduled to start filming Competencia @ @ @ @ @ end of next month , producers announced Thursday .
The movie will be co-directed by @ @ @ @ @ Gaston Duprat , who wrote the screenplay with Andres Duprat .
`` Banderas and Martínez @ @ @ @ @ with very different track records , whose methods clash during the preparation of a movie @ @ @ @ @ overeager millionaire and directed by a prestigious but somewhat eccentric director , played by Penélope @ @ @ @ @ release said .
Cruz is an Oscar winner for her performance in Vicky Cristina Barcelona @ @ @ @ @ Banderas in Pain and Glory , for which Banderas is a current Oscar nominee .
@ @ @ @ @ roles in The Distinguished Citizen and Empty Nest .

1/2
Penelope Cruz will co-star with Antonio Banderas and Oscar Martinez in the film "Competencia Oficial." File Photo by Rune Hellestad/UPI | License Photo
Jan. 30 (UPI) -- Penelope Cruz, Antonio Banderas and Oscar Martínez are scheduled to start filming Competencia Oficial in Spain at the end of next month, producers announced Thursday. The movie will be co-directed by Argentine filmmakers Mariano Cohn and Gaston Duprat, who wrote the screenplay with Andres Duprat. Advertisement
"Banderas and Martínez play two very different actors with very different track records, whose methods clash during the preparation of a movie financed by a notorious and overeager millionaire and directed by a prestigious but somewhat eccentric director, played by Penélope Cruz," a press release said.
Cruz is an Oscar winner for her performance in Vicky Cristina Barcelona. She also co-starred with Banderas in Pain and Glory, for which Banderas is a current Oscar nominee.
Martinez is known for his roles in The Distinguished Citizen and Empty Nest.


upi--2020-01-30--Feds: Record $123M in fake NFL sports gear seized since last Super Bowl

MIAMI , Jan. 30 ( UPI ) -- Federal agents have seized counterfeit sports items worth an estimated $ 123 million since last year 's Super Bowl , and the NFL is taking extra measures to limit the sale of fake gear and counterfeit Super Bowl LIV tickets this week .
The record haul is 400 percent greater than the $ 24.2 million in items seized during the previous year , government officials .
The dollar figures are based on suggested list price of identical , real items .
U.S. Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seizure of the 176,000 pieces of gear during a news conference with several federal agencies , local police and the NFL ahead of Sunday 's Super Bowl .
The announcement , the only major damper during an upbeat week of pregame festivities throughout South Florida , was timed in part to discourage fans from buying counterfeit tickets and fake gear people near Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens , Fla .
The fake items seized since Feb. 3 , 2019 , include jerseys , hats and jewelry .
Law enforcement officers have made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Player to curtail counterfeit goods .
The operation , officials said , is an effort by the Homeland Security Investigations-led Intellectual Property Rights Center to target the illegal importation and distribution of counterfeit sports gear .
`` The NFL is committed to supporting these anti-counterfeiting and consumer protection measures , and extends its gratitude for the year-round support of law enforcement partners who drove the success of Operation Team Player , '' said Dolores DiBella , NFL vice president of legal affairs .
The proceeds from the counterfeit and stolen goods are often @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including human trafficking , forced labor , identity theft , drug smuggling and more , according to federal agents .
The Intellectual Property Rights Center works with major sports leagues to target contraband that impacts the economy , enables additional crime and poses possible health and safety hazards to the public .
The FBI is working with city , state and county police , as well as the Department of Homeland Security , Federal Aviation Administration , Secret Service , Border Patrol and others to secure the area around Hard Rock Stadium @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and tickets for Sunday 's Super Bowl LIV .
`` Not only does an event of this nature lend itself as a possible target for violent actors and potential terrorists , but it is also an attractive destination for human trafficking activity , as well as the sale of counterfeit goods , '' Department of Homeland Security acting secretary Chad Wolf said .
The NFL has obtained a a civil court order to assist in the immediate seizure of counterfeit merchandise and tickets in the Miami area , officials said .
`` Every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stadium on game day are turned away at gates because they bought counterfeit tickets , '' NFL senior counsel Michael Buchwald said Thursday .
`` The quality of counterfeit tickets can be very sophisticated .
No matter how real the tickets may look , a fake ticket will not get you into the game . ''
Fake tickets are becoming more common because of the rising cost of Super Bowl tickets , which are offered for more than $ 5,000 each in legitimate secondary markets .
The league has taken extreme measures to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ using thermochromic ink .
The ink was used for the Super Bowl LIV logo on the lower-back portion of this year 's ticket .
If the ink is heated up , the logo fades .
The logo returns to its original appearance when heat is removed .
In addition , custom clear , raised graphics , appear on the front of real tickets .
They also feature several unique logos .
`` When fans spend their hard-earned money on NFL tickets and merchandise , they deserve the real deal , '' Miami-Dade County @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` The department is fully committed to collaborating and partnering with our local , state and federal law enforcement partners to proactively enforce laws related to counterfeit merchandise to protect businesses and consumers , '' Garcia said .

1/3
NFL Senior Counsel Michael Buchwald held up authentic Super Bowl tickets at the NFL Super Bowl LIV counterfeit merchandise and tickets press conference Thursday at the Miami Beach Convention Center in Miami. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo
MIAMI, Jan. 30 (UPI) -- Federal agents have seized counterfeit sports items worth an estimated $123 million since last year's Super Bowl, and the NFL is taking extra measures to limit the sale of fake gear and counterfeit Super Bowl LIV tickets this week. The record haul is 400 percent greater than the $24.2 million in items seized during the previous year, government officials. The dollar figures are based on suggested list price of identical, real items. Advertisement
U.S. Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations announced Thursday the seizure of the 176,000 pieces of gear during a news conference with several federal agencies, local police and the NFL ahead of Sunday's Super Bowl.
The announcement, the only major damper during an upbeat week of pregame festivities throughout South Florida, was timed in part to discourage fans from buying counterfeit tickets and fake gear people near Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla.
Advertisement
The fake items seized since Feb. 3, 2019, include jerseys, hats and jewelry. Law enforcement officers have made 25 criminal arrests related to Operation Team Player to curtail counterfeit goods.
The operation, officials said, is an effort by the Homeland Security Investigations-led Intellectual Property Rights Center to target the illegal importation and distribution of counterfeit sports gear.
"The NFL is committed to supporting these anti-counterfeiting and consumer protection measures, and extends its gratitude for the year-round support of law enforcement partners who drove the success of Operation Team Player," said Dolores DiBella, NFL vice president of legal affairs.
The proceeds from the counterfeit and stolen goods are often are used to support additional criminal activity, including human trafficking, forced labor, identity theft, drug smuggling and more, according to federal agents.
The Intellectual Property Rights Center works with major sports leagues to target contraband that impacts the economy, enables additional crime and poses possible health and safety hazards to the public.
The FBI is working with city, state and county police, as well as the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Aviation Administration, Secret Service, Border Patrol and others to secure the area around Hard Rock Stadium and prevent the selling of counterfeit merchandise and tickets for Sunday's Super Bowl LIV.
Advertisement
"Not only does an event of this nature lend itself as a possible target for violent actors and potential terrorists, but it is also an attractive destination for human trafficking activity, as well as the sale of counterfeit goods," Department of Homeland Security acting secretary Chad Wolf said.
The NFL has obtained a a civil court order to assist in the immediate seizure of counterfeit merchandise and tickets in the Miami area, officials said.
"Every year, fans who arrive at the stadium on game day are turned away at gates because they bought counterfeit tickets," NFL senior counsel Michael Buchwald said Thursday. "The quality of counterfeit tickets can be very sophisticated. No matter how real the tickets may look, a fake ticket will not get you into the game."
Fake tickets are becoming more common because of the rising cost of Super Bowl tickets, which are offered for more than $5,000 each in legitimate secondary markets.
The league has taken extreme measures to curb the fake ticket market, including using thermochromic ink. The ink was used for the Super Bowl LIV logo on the lower-back portion of this year's ticket. If the ink is heated up, the logo fades. The logo returns to its original appearance when heat is removed.
Advertisement
In addition, custom clear, raised graphics, appear on the front of real tickets. They also feature several unique logos.
"When fans spend their hard-earned money on NFL tickets and merchandise, they deserve the real deal," Miami-Dade County Police Department Maj. Eric Garcia said.
"The department is fully committed to collaborating and partnering with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners to proactively enforce laws related to counterfeit merchandise to protect businesses and consumers," Garcia said.


upi--2020-01-30--Watch live: Rocket Lab to launch U.S. spy satellite

Jan. 30 ( UPI ) -- U.S. launch company Rocket Lab plans a launch attempt of an American spy satellite from New Zealand , with a four-hour launch window starting at 8:22 p.m. EST Thursday .
That is 2:22 p.m. Friday in New Zealand .
About an hour before launch time , the company said it was monitoring ground-level winds in the area .
It will be Rocket Lab 's first launch of 2020 , from the firm 's Launch Complex 1 is in New Zealand 's Mahia Peninsula .
Rocket Lab opened a second launch complex in Virginia last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Feather mission is part of the National Reconnaisance Office 's Rapid Acquisition of a Small Rocket program , which is aimed at providing a streamlined , commercial approach for getting small satellites into space .
The Electron rocket for the launch will reenter the atmosphere in another test of Rocket Lab 's plans to develop reusability , but the company wo n't actually try to recover it .
Data from the rocket will be gathered for the development of reusable boosters .
`` For this mission , a camera on stage one will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This view will be available during the launch webcast , '' the company said in a news release .

Rocket Lab's Electron rocket launched a U.S. spy satellite on Friday in New Zealand (Thursday evening EST.) Photo courtesy of Rocket Lab
Jan. 30 (UPI) -- U.S. launch company Rocket Lab launched a U.S. spy satellite from New Zealand on Thursday. "Successful Electron lift-off!" RocketLab tweeted on Friday afternoon in New Zealand. Advertisement
The company had experienced a few delays for the launch due to ground-level winds, but otherwise, the mission reportedly went off without any problems.
It was Rocket Lab's first launch of 2020, from the firm's Launch Complex 1 is in New Zealand's Mahia Peninsula. Rocket Lab opened a second launch complex in Virginia last year.
Electron's fairing has been jettisoned as Stage 2 continues towards payload deployment. pic.twitter.com/NZ7jzUmHhE— Rocket Lab (@RocketLab) January 31, 2020
The so-called Birds of a Feather mission was part of the National Reconnaissance Office's Rapid Acquisition of a Small Rocket program, which is aimed at providing a streamlined, commercial approach for getting small satellites into space.
The Electron rocket for the launch completed another test for Rocket Lab's plans to develop reusability, but the company didn't try to recover it. Data from the rocket was to be gathered for the development of reusable boosters.
"For this mission, a camera on stage one will attempt to document the re-entry view," the company had said in a news release.
Advertisement Propellant loading has begun. Electron's trademark white stripes from the liquid oxygen against Electron's black carbon composite surface are starting to show. pic.twitter.com/KdqhQWzKyE— Rocket Lab (@RocketLab) January 30, 2020


upi--2020-01-30--Fotis Dulos, suspected in wife's death, dies

Jan. 30 ( UPI ) -- A Connecticut man charged with killing his wife died on Thursday , his lawyer @ @ @ @ @ after being found unresponsive in his garage and spending two days in a Bronx hospital @ @ @ @ @ was pronounced dead at 5:32 p.m. his lawyer , Norm Pattis said .
Pattis said @ @ @ @ @ reflect a consciousness of guilt .
`` We say it was more a conscience overborne @ @ @ @ @ world that was too busy to listen and wanted a story more than it wanted @ @ @ @ @ said .
Dulos was hospitalized with carbon monoxide poisoning after an apparent suicide attempt on @ @ @ @ @ earlier this month in the presumed death of his estranged wife .
Jennifer Farber Dulos @ @ @ @ @ months .

Jan. 30 (UPI) -- A Connecticut man charged with killing his wife died on Thursday, his lawyer said.
Fotis Dulos died after being found unresponsive in his garage and spending two days in a Bronx hospital in dire condition.
Advertisement
He was pronounced dead at 5:32 p.m. his lawyer, Norm Pattis said.
Pattis said Dulos' death does not reflect a consciousness of guilt.
"We say it was more a conscience overborne with the weight of a world that was too busy to listen and wanted a story more than it wanted the truth," he said.
Dulos was hospitalized with carbon monoxide poisoning after an apparent suicide attempt on Tuesday.
He was arrested earlier this month in the presumed death of his estranged wife. Jennifer Farber Dulos has been missing for seven months.


upi--2020-01-30--Arvind Krishna to replace Virginia Rometty as IBM CEO

Jan. 30 ( UPI ) -- IBM announced Thursday that Arvind Krishna will replace the company 's president and CEO , Virginia `` Ginni '' Rometty .
Rometty will serve as executive chairman of the board through the end of the year before retiring and Krishna , who is currently IBM 's senior vice president for cloud and cognitive software , will take on the role of CEO effective April 6 .
Rometty , 62 , has served as chairman , president and CEO of IBM since 2012 and oversaw its acquisition of 65 companies .
In his current role @ @ @ @ @ @ @ IBM business unit that provides the company 's cloud and data platform .
`` Arvind is the right CEO for the next era at IBM , '' Rometty said .
`` He is a brilliant technologist who has played a significant role in developing our key technologies such as artificial intelligence , cloud , quantum computing and blockchain . ''
IBM Senior Vice President and CEO of Red Hat James Whitehurst will take on the role of president on April 6 .
`` Jim is also a seasoned leader who has positioned Red @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of open source enterprise IT software solutions and services and has been quickly expanding the reach and benefit of that technology to an even wider audience as part of IBM , '' Rometty said .

IBM announced Thursday CEO Virginia Rometty will retire at the end of the year and be replaced as the head executive by Arvind Krishna in April. File Photo by Olivier Douliery/UPI | License Photo
Jan. 30 (UPI) -- IBM announced Thursday that Arvind Krishna will replace the company's president and CEO, Virginia "Ginni" Rometty. Rometty will serve as executive chairman of the board through the end of the year before retiring and Krishna, who is currently IBM's senior vice president for cloud and cognitive software, will take on the role of CEO effective April 6. Advertisement
Rometty, 62, has served as chairman, president and CEO of IBM since 2012 and oversaw its acquisition of 65 companies.
In his current role, Krishna, 57, leads the IBM business unit that provides the company's cloud and data platform.
"Arvind is the right CEO for the next era at IBM," Rometty said. "He is a brilliant technologist who has played a significant role in developing our key technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud, quantum computing and blockchain."
IBM Senior Vice President and CEO of Red Hat James Whitehurst will take on the role of president on April 6.
"Jim is also a seasoned leader who has positioned Red Hat as the world's leading provider of open source enterprise IT software solutions and services and has been quickly expanding the reach and benefit of that technology to an even wider audience as part of IBM," Rometty said.
Advertisement


upi--2020-01-30--Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic suffers another right ankle injury

Jan. 30 ( UPI ) -- Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic will sit out at least one game after suffering another right ankle injury .
League sources told ESPN and the Dallas Morning News that Doncic sustained the injury in the middle of Thursday 's practice .
He stepped on a defender 's foot while driving to the basket during a scrimmage .
Doncic will undergo an MRI on Friday morning and wo n't play later that night against the Rockets in Houston , according to ESPN .
The All-Star guard is expected to be sidelined for multiple games following @ @ @ @ @ @ @ night 's contest against the Rockets , he is unlikely to suit up for the Mavericks ' matchup against the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday , according to ESPN .
Doncic , 20 , missed four games in December with a sprained right ankle , which occurred when he stepped on Miami Heat guard Kendrick Nunn 's foot on Dec. 14 .
According to ESPN , the new ailment is similar to the sprain he suffered earlier this season .
Doncic , who was voted to be the youngest All-Star starter since LeBron James @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 9.5 rebounds and 8.7 assists per game this season .

Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic will undergo an MRI on Friday morning to confirm the severity of the ankle injury. File Photo by Jon SooHoo/UPI | License Photo
Jan. 30 (UPI) -- Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic will sit out at least one game after suffering another right ankle injury. League sources told ESPN and the Dallas Morning News that Doncic sustained the injury in the middle of Thursday's practice. He stepped on a defender's foot while driving to the basket during a scrimmage. Advertisement
Doncic will undergo an MRI on Friday morning and won't play later that night against the Rockets in Houston, according to ESPN.
The All-Star guard is expected to be sidelined for multiple games following the injury. Along with missing Friday night's contest against the Rockets, he is unlikely to suit up for the Mavericks' matchup against the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday, according to ESPN.
Doncic, 20, missed four games in December with a sprained right ankle, which occurred when he stepped on Miami Heat guard Kendrick Nunn's foot on Dec. 14. According to ESPN, the new ailment is similar to the sprain he suffered earlier this season.
Doncic, who was voted to be the youngest All-Star starter since LeBron James in 2005, has averaged 28.8 points, 9.5 rebounds and 8.7 assists per game this season.


upi--2020-01-30--Keanu Reeves, Beanie Feldstein added to Oscar presenters list

Jan. 30 ( UPI ) -- Keanu Reeves , Beanie Feldstein , James Corden and Penélope Cruz have been confirmed @ @ @ @ @ 's Oscars ceremony in Los Angeles .
Also added to the list of stars who @ @ @ @ @ hand out awards -- at the Feb. 9 gala are Zack Gottsagen , Diane Keaton @ @ @ @ @ MacKay , Steve Martin , Maya Rudolph and Sigourney Weaver .
The prize presentation , @ @ @ @ @ ABC , honors excellence in cinema .
There will be no host for the broadcast @ @ @ @ @ year .
Joker goes into the competition with a leading 11 nods , followed by @ @ @ @ @ a Time in Hollywood and 1917 with 10 nominations each , and Jojo Rabbit , @ @ @ @ @ and Parasite with six nods apiece .

Jan. 30 (UPI) -- Keanu Reeves, Beanie Feldstein, James Corden and Penélope Cruz have been confirmed as presenters for next month's Oscars ceremony in Los Angeles.
Also added to the list of stars who will introduce nominees -- and hand out awards -- at the Feb. 9 gala are Zack Gottsagen, Diane Keaton, Shia LaBeouf, George MacKay, Steve Martin, Maya Rudolph and Sigourney Weaver.
Previously announced Oscar presenters include Mahershala Ali, Zazie Beetz, Timothée Chalamet, Olivia Colman, Will Ferrell, Gal Gadot, Mindy Kaling, Regina King, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Rami Malek, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Anthony Ramos, Mark Ruffalo, Kelly Marie Tran and Kristen Wiig.
The prize presentation, which will air live on ABC, honors excellence in cinema.
There will be no host for the broadcast for a second, consecutive year.


upi--2020-01-30--Strep throat could become untreatable, researchers warn

When a child has strep throat , an antibiotic like penicillin usually has them back at school 24 hours later .
But a new study warns that strains of bacteria that cause strep throat and `` flesh-eating disease '' appear close to becoming resistant to penicillin and other antibiotics known as beta-lactams .
`` If this germ becomes truly resistant to these antibiotics , it would have a very serious impact on millions of children around the world , '' said study lead author Dr. James Musser , chair of pathology and genomic medicine at Houston Methodist Hospital .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ notion based on our findings , '' Musser said in a hospital news release .
The international team of researchers analyzed more than 7,000 group A streptococcus strains collected over several decades from around the world .
They found that about 2 percent had gene mutations of interest .
Tests confirmed that those strains have decreased susceptibility to beta-lactam antibiotics .
That suggests these antibiotics may eventually become less effective or completely ineffective against these strains , according to the researchers .
The study findings highlight the urgency of developing a vaccine against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` We could be looking at a worldwide public health infectious disease problem , '' Musser said .
`` When strep throat does n't respond to frontline antibiotics such as penicillin , physicians must start prescribing second-line therapies , which may not be as effective against this organism . ''
Group A streptococcus causes 20 percent to 30 percent of sore throats in children and 5 % -15 % of sore throats in adults , according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention .
According to the CDC , that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cause of the flesh-eating disease necrotizing fasciitis .
The bacteria usually enter the body through a break in the skin , and rapid antibiotic treatment is essential .
The study was published online Jan. 29 in the Journal of Clinical Microbiology .
Musser and his colleagues plan further research to learn how group A streptococcus mutations arise in people , how they may affect health , and how they may alter the virulence of the bacteria .
The U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has more on group A streptococcal infections @

When a child has strep throat, an antibiotic like penicillin usually has them back at school 24 hours later.
But a new study warns that strains of bacteria that cause strep throat and "flesh-eating disease" appear close to becoming resistant to penicillin and other antibiotics known as beta-lactams.
Advertisement
"If this germ becomes truly resistant to these antibiotics, it would have a very serious impact on millions of children around the world," said study lead author Dr. James Musser, chair of pathology and genomic medicine at Houston Methodist Hospital.
"That is a very concerning but plausible notion based on our findings," Musser said in a hospital news release.
The international team of researchers analyzed more than 7,000 group A streptococcus strains collected over several decades from around the world. They found that about 2 percent had gene mutations of interest.
Tests confirmed that those strains have decreased susceptibility to beta-lactam antibiotics. That suggests these antibiotics may eventually become less effective or completely ineffective against these strains, according to the researchers.
The study findings highlight the urgency of developing a vaccine against group A streptococcus, the researchers said.
"We could be looking at a worldwide public health infectious disease problem," Musser said. "When strep throat doesn't respond to frontline antibiotics such as penicillin, physicians must start prescribing second-line therapies, which may not be as effective against this organism."
Advertisement
Group A streptococcus causes 20 percent to 30 percent of sore throats in children and 5%-15% of sore throats in adults, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
According to the CDC, that same strain is considered the most common cause of the flesh-eating disease necrotizing fasciitis. The bacteria usually enter the body through a break in the skin, and rapid antibiotic treatment is essential. The study was published online Jan. 29 in the Journal of Clinical Microbiology.
Musser and his colleagues plan further research to learn how group A streptococcus mutations arise in people, how they may affect health, and how they may alter the virulence of the bacteria.
More information
The U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has more on group A streptococcal infections.
Copyright 2020 HealthDay. All rights reserved.


upi--2020-01-30--'Young and the Restless' renewed through 2024

Jan. 30 ( UPI ) -- CBS announced Thursday it has renewed its soap opera The Young and the Restless through the 2023-24 television season .
`` The Young and the Restless has been daytime 's top drama for over three decades , '' Kelly Kahl , president of CBS Entertainment , said in a press release .
`` The last time any other show was on top , Ronald Reagan was president , and the Berlin Wall was still standing .
It 's a remarkable achievement and a testament to the extraordinary cast , gifted writers , talented producers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as our tremendous partnership with Sony Pictures Television . ''
The 47-year-old show 's ensemble is led by Melody Thomas Scott , Peter Bergman , Joshua Morrow , Sharon Case , Bryton James , Eric Braeden , Marla Adams , Lauralee Bell , Donny Boaz and Tracey Bregman .
`` We 're celebrating # YR 's 4 year renewal here on set , and we have you to thank !
We are so lucky to have amazing fans that tune in every weekday .
Drop a below to join the party ! ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A brief video showed cast members celebrating the news , which was announced a day after NBC said it had renewed its daytime drama Days of Our Lives for a 56th season .

We're celebrating #YR's 4 year renewal here on set, and we have you to thank! We are so lucky to have amazing fans that tune in every weekday. Drop a below to join the party! pic.twitter.com/nPviqDofrF— Young and Restless (@YandR_CBS) January 30, 2020
Jan. 30 (UPI) -- CBS announced Thursday it has renewed its soap opera The Young and the Restless through the 2023-24 television season.
"The Young and the Restless has been daytime's top drama for over three decades," Kelly Kahl, president of CBS Entertainment, said in a press release.
Advertisement
"The last time any other show was on top, Ronald Reagan was president, and the Berlin Wall was still standing. It's a remarkable achievement and a testament to the extraordinary cast, gifted writers, talented producers and supremely passionate fans, as well as our tremendous partnership with Sony Pictures Television."
The 47-year-old show's ensemble is led by Melody Thomas Scott, Peter Bergman, Joshua Morrow, Sharon Case, Bryton James, Eric Braeden, Marla Adams, Lauralee Bell, Donny Boaz and Tracey Bregman.
It co-stars Sasha Calle, Doug Davidson, Sean Dominic, Melissa Claire Egan, Cait Fairbanks, Camryn Grimes, Mark Grossman, Amelia Heinle, Elizabeth Hendrickson, Tyler Johnson, Christel Khalil, Hunter King, Christian J. Le Blanc, Kate Linder, Beth Maitland, Michael Mealor, Mishael Morgan, Melissa Ordway, Greg Rikaart, Brytni Sarpy, Michelle Stafford, Jason Thompson, Jordi Vilasuso and Jess Walton.
Advertisement
"We're celebrating #YR's 4 year renewal here on set, and we have you to thank! We are so lucky to have amazing fans that tune in every weekday. Drop a below to join the party!" the Y&R Twitter feed said.
A brief video showed cast members celebrating the news, which was announced a day after NBC said it had renewed its daytime drama Days of Our Lives for a 56th season.


upi--2020-01-30--Writer E. Jean Carroll requests DNA from Donald Trump in defamation lawsuit

Jan. 30 ( UPI ) -- Writer E. Jean Carroll , who accused President Donald Trump of sexually assaulting her in the 1990s asked for a DNA sample to compare genetic material from the alleged assault Thursday .
Carroll tweeted that a dress she wore the night she said Trump sexually assaulted has been tested and that her attorney sent a subpoena to Trump 's attorney to submit a DNA sample .
Roberta Kaplan , an attorney for Carroll , said they have requested a saliva sample from Trump .
In a statement , Carroll said that after the alleged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she took the black dress she was wearing at the time off and hung it in her closet .
`` I only wore it once since then and that was at the photo shoot for the New York Magazine article about my book , '' Carroll said .
`` Unidentified male DNA on the dress could prove that Donald Trump not only knows who I am , but also that he violently assaulted me in a dressing room at Bergdorf Goodman and then defamed me by lying about it and impugning my character @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in November alleging Trump made `` express statements and deliberate implications '' that accused her of lying about the rape in order to increase sales of her memoir -- where she first publicly described the assault -- as well as to carry out a political agenda by advancing a conspiracy with the Democratic Party .
`` This case turns on whether Donald Trump lied when he said that he had not sexually assaulted E. Jean Carroll and , in fact , had never even met her , '' Kaplan said .
`` Testing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wore during that assault has become standard operating procedure in these circumstances given the remarkable advances in DNA technology , particularly where , as is the case here , other potential contributors have been excluded . ''

E. Jean Carroll said President Donald Trump sexually assaulted her in a dressing room at Bergdorf Goodman. Photo by Ken Cedeno/UPI | License Photo
Jan. 30 (UPI) -- Writer E. Jean Carroll, who accused President Donald Trump of sexually assaulting her in the 1990s asked for a DNA sample to compare genetic material from the alleged assault Thursday. Carroll tweeted that a dress she wore the night she said Trump sexually assaulted has been tested and that her attorney sent a subpoena to Trump's attorney to submit a DNA sample. Advertisement
Roberta Kaplan, an attorney for Carroll, said they have requested a saliva sample from Trump.
In a statement, Carroll said that after the alleged assault in a Bergdorf Goodman dressing room she took the black dress she was wearing at the time off and hung it in her closet.
"I only wore it once since then and that was at the photo shoot for the New York Magazine article about my book," Carroll said. "Unidentified male DNA on the dress could prove that Donald Trump not only knows who I am, but also that he violently assaulted me in a dressing room at Bergdorf Goodman and then defamed me by lying about it and impugning my character."
Carroll sued Trump for defamation in November alleging Trump made "express statements and deliberate implications" that accused her of lying about the rape in order to increase sales of her memoir -- where she first publicly described the assault -- as well as to carry out a political agenda by advancing a conspiracy with the Democratic Party.
Advertisement
"This case turns on whether Donald Trump lied when he said that he had not sexually assaulted E. Jean Carroll and, in fact, had never even met her," Kaplan said. "Testing unidentified male DNA on the dress she wore during that assault has become standard operating procedure in these circumstances given the remarkable advances in DNA technology, particularly where, as is the case here, other potential contributors have been excluded."


upi--2020-01-30--Sexual assault reports at military academies up sharply last year

Jan. 30 ( UPI ) -- Reports of sexual harassment at military academies increased sharply in the 2018-19 school year , according to a new Pentagon report saying there were 149 assaults that year versus the 117 in the year before .
Of the 149 reports , 130 were made by or against actively enrolled cadets and midshipmen for incidents that occurred during military service , according to the Pentagon 's `` Annual Report on Sexual Harassment and Violence at the Military Service Academies , published Thursday .
`` While the Department has made progress combating sexual assault over the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ data reminds us there is more to do , '' Matthew Donovan , acting undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness , wrote in a cover letter to the report .
`` The Department has heightened its focus on the experience of our youngest Service members by targeting prevention efforts to address problematic student culture , eliminating reporting barriers , and expanding resource options .
We are also committed to continuously evaluating our programs to ensure they are as effective as possible in preventing sexual assault and providing support . ''
An increase @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increase in prevalence , particularly in the case of sexual assault , the Pentagon said in a press release .
Officials say the increase in reporting can not be interpreted until the DoD 's prevalence survey , which estimates rates of unwanted sexual contact , is released next year .
The National Sexual Violence Resource Center describes rape as the most underreported crime and notes fewer than half of rapes are reported to police .
The military academies have attempted a range of programs and policy changes to increase reporting , including policy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and educational events describing the impact of sexual assault on victims and the military 's mission , the report said .
Dr. Nate Galbreath , acting director of the DoD sexual assault prevention and response program , said officials `` are encouraged '' that more cadets and midshipmen made reports of sexual assault this year .
`` Our program empowers those who experience sexual assault to connect with restorative care , `` Galbreath said .
`` Greater reporting by Service members has been a priority for the Department since the creation of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2005 . ''
The report concludes that the academies are `` overall in an early phase of prevention capability , '' complicated by student cultures that encourage alcohol misuse and tolerate sexual harassment .
`` Academy efforts have yet to produce cohesive , comprehensive prevention approaches that consider and integrate key contributing factors , such as alcohol misuse and sexual harassment , limited resources , a lack of consistent training for individuals performing prevention roles , and siloed efforts among prevention staff , '' the report said .
`` Although flagship programs were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the majority of activities had undetermined effectiveness .
The findings help explain why Academy efforts have had little impact on the estimated prevalence of sexual assault . ''
The report also shows the number of sexual assault reports has trended upward over the last several years , both at military academies and generally at institutions of higher education .
In October 2019 , the American Association of Universities released a report saying the rate of nonconsensual sexual contact reported by undergraduate women increased from 23.6 percent in 2015 to 26.5 percent in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say the fact that military academies ' culture mirrors national trends is not an excuse .
`` While sexual victimization may be on the rise in the country , the Department and the academies are held to a higher standard of conduct , '' the report said .
`` Sexual assault has no place in the military . ''

Sexual assault at all three military academies increased sharply during the 2018-19 school year, versus the year before. Pictured is the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. Photo by Trevor Cokley/U.S. Air Force
Jan. 30 (UPI) -- Reports of sexual harassment at military academies increased sharply in the 2018-19 school year, according to a new Pentagon report saying there were 149 assaults that year versus the 117 in the year before. Of the 149 reports, 130 were made by or against actively enrolled cadets and midshipmen for incidents that occurred during military service, according to the Pentagon's "Annual Report on Sexual Harassment and Violence at the Military Service Academies, published Thursday. Advertisement
"While the Department has made progress combating sexual assault over the last decade, previous years' survey data reminds us there is more to do," Matthew Donovan, acting undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness, wrote in a cover letter to the report. "The Department has heightened its focus on the experience of our youngest Service members by targeting prevention efforts to address problematic student culture, eliminating reporting barriers, and expanding resource options. We are also committed to continuously evaluating our programs to ensure they are as effective as possible in preventing sexual assault and providing support."
Advertisement
An increase in reports does not necessarily suggest an increase in prevalence, particularly in the case of sexual assault, the Pentagon said in a press release. Officials say the increase in reporting cannot be interpreted until the DoD's prevalence survey, which estimates rates of unwanted sexual contact, is released next year.
The National Sexual Violence Resource Center describes rape as the most underreported crime and notes fewer than half of rapes are reported to police.
The military academies have attempted a range of programs and policy changes to increase reporting, including policy changes about collateral misconduct, third-party reporting and educational events describing the impact of sexual assault on victims and the military's mission, the report said.
Dr. Nate Galbreath, acting director of the DoD sexual assault prevention and response program, said officials "are encouraged" that more cadets and midshipmen made reports of sexual assault this year.
"Our program empowers those who experience sexual assault to connect with restorative care, " Galbreath said. "Greater reporting by Service members has been a priority for the Department since the creation of the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response program in 2005."
The report concludes that the academies are "overall in an early phase of prevention capability," complicated by student cultures that encourage alcohol misuse and tolerate sexual harassment.
Advertisement
"Academy efforts have yet to produce cohesive, comprehensive prevention approaches that consider and integrate key contributing factors, such as alcohol misuse and sexual harassment, limited resources, a lack of consistent training for individuals performing prevention roles, and siloed efforts among prevention staff," the report said. "Although flagship programs were partially or substantially aligned with best practices, the majority of activities had undetermined effectiveness. The findings help explain why Academy efforts have had little impact on the estimated prevalence of sexual assault."
The report also shows the number of sexual assault reports has trended upward over the last several years, both at military academies and generally at institutions of higher education.
In October 2019, the American Association of Universities released a report saying the rate of nonconsensual sexual contact reported by undergraduate women increased from 23.6 percent in 2015 to 26.5 percent in 2019.
But the report's authors say the fact that military academies' culture mirrors national trends is not an excuse.
"While sexual victimization may be on the rise in the country, the Department and the academies are held to a higher standard of conduct," the report said. "Sexual assault has no place in the military."


upi--2020-01-30--U.S. farm bankruptcies rise 20 percent in 2019 despite federal aid

Jan. 30 ( UPI ) -- U.S. farm bankruptcies rose nearly 20 percent last year amid the trade war with China , trailing only 2010 , the year following the Great Recession when such bankruptcies rose 33 percent .
Recently released U.S. Courts data show there were 595 Chapter 12 family farm bankruptcies in 2019 , up nearly 100 filings from 2018 , and the highest number of filings since 2011 's 637 filings for Chapter 12 .
Economic analysts for the American Farm Bureau Federation said considering there are slightly more than 2 million U.S. farms , the bankruptcy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ per 10,000 farms , slightly below a rate of 2.99 filings per 10,000 farms in 2011 .
President Donald Trump said at the AFBF Annual Convention and Trade Show in Austin , Texas , earlier this month , he authorized $ 28 billion in aid to farmers , which was stretched out over the past two years , but the trade war with China and uncertainty about the trade market have still hurt farmers .
Farmers received most of the $ 28 billion in aid directly and about $ 4 billion was used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ groups that promote agricultural aid .
The aid payments boosted farm income projected to be up 10 percent in 2019 that otherwise would have dropped without subsidies , but many farmers said they would have rather had strong trade than aid payments .
Negotiations with Canada and Mexico over the North American Free Trade Agreement led to uncertainty and China retaliated against Trump 's tariffs with duties on U.S. farm goods .
China was previously the biggest export market for U.S. soybean growers , but by November 2018 China nearly stopped buying soybeans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were in storage , though Beijing resumed buying from the United States and purchases nearly doubled by late last year amid 'phase one ' trade deal negotiations .
In addition to the trade war hurting soybean exports , last year 's wet weather made the planting season tough , and farmers have also faced years of low prices for commodities , including dairy and corn .
Wisconsin , known as America 's Dairyland , had the most bankruptcy filings last year .
Since not every closing farm files for bankruptcy , the number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even higher .
`` The trade wars were salt in an existing wound , '' said Wisconsin Farmers Union Government Relations Director Kara O'Connor , citing overproduction , farm policy and low prices .
She added that new trade deals would n't save farmers .
Still , the Purdue/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer survey in December showed many farmers were optimistic about the future even as their perception of their current economic situation dropped .
Trump also recently signed the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement , which will make sure most agricultural products remain without @ @ @ @ @

A soybean field reaches to the horizon in rural Washington, Iowa. File Photo by Mike Theiler/UPI | License Photo
Jan. 30 (UPI) -- U.S. farm bankruptcies rose nearly 20 percent last year amid the trade war with China, trailing only 2010, the year following the Great Recession when such bankruptcies rose 33 percent. Recently released U.S. Courts data show there were 595 Chapter 12 family farm bankruptcies in 2019, up nearly 100 filings from 2018, and the highest number of filings since 2011's 637 filings for Chapter 12. Advertisement
Economic analysts for the American Farm Bureau Federation said considering there are slightly more than 2 million U.S. farms, the bankruptcy rate in 2019 is approximately 2.95 bankruptcies per 10,000 farms, slightly below a rate of 2.99 filings per 10,000 farms in 2011.
President Donald Trump said at the AFBF Annual Convention and Trade Show in Austin, Texas, earlier this month, he authorized $28 billion in aid to farmers, which was stretched out over the past two years, but the trade war with China and uncertainty about the trade market have still hurt farmers.
Farmers received most of the $28 billion in aid directly and about $4 billion was used for surplus food for food banks and groups that promote agricultural aid.
Advertisement
The aid payments boosted farm income projected to be up 10 percent in 2019 that otherwise would have dropped without subsidies, but many farmers said they would have rather had strong trade than aid payments.
Negotiations with Canada and Mexico over the North American Free Trade Agreement led to uncertainty and China retaliated against Trump's tariffs with duties on U.S. farm goods.
China was previously the biggest export market for U.S. soybean growers, but by November 2018 China nearly stopped buying soybeans altogether. Prices dropped and most crops were in storage, though Beijing resumed buying from the United States and purchases nearly doubled by late last year amid 'phase one' trade deal negotiations.
In addition to the trade war hurting soybean exports, last year's wet weather made the planting season tough, and farmers have also faced years of low prices for commodities, including dairy and corn.
Wisconsin, known as America's Dairyland, had the most bankruptcy filings last year. Since not every closing farm files for bankruptcy, the number of farms losing their businesses could be even higher.
"The trade wars were salt in an existing wound," said Wisconsin Farmers Union Government Relations Director Kara O'Connor, citing overproduction, farm policy and low prices.
Advertisement
She added that new trade deals wouldn't save farmers.
Still, the Purdue/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer survey in December showed many farmers were optimistic about the future even as their perception of their current economic situation dropped.
Trump also recently signed the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement, which will make sure most agricultural products remain without tariffs within the region.


upi--2020-01-30--Watch: Large snake rescued from storm drain at side of road

Jan. 30 ( UPI ) -- A group of men came to the rescue of a large python that apparently @ @ @ @ @ grate of a storm drain and became stuck .
A video of the rescue Jan. @ @ @ @ @ the snake 's rear half sticking out from the top of the storm drain grate @ @ @ @ @ busy road .
Three men work to hold the snake still and slowly extract it @ @ @ @ @ wood .
The men were able to free the snake , which is seen slithering @ @ @ @ @ video .

Subscribe | UPI Odd Newsletter Subscribe
Jan. 30 (UPI) -- A group of men came to the rescue of a large python that apparently tried to slither through the grate of a storm drain and became stuck.
A video of the rescue Jan. 11 in Kota Tangerang shows the snake's rear half sticking out from the top of the storm drain grate at the side of a busy road.
Advertisement
Three men work to hold the snake still and slowly extract it using a long piece of wood.
The men were able to free the snake, which is seen slithering at the end of the video.


upi--2020-01-30--WHO declares coronavirus a global public health emergency

Jan. 30 ( UPI ) -- World Health Organization officials on Thursday declared the 2019 novel coronavirus outbreak a public health emergency of international concern .
The announcement was made following an hours-long meeting of the WHO 's Emergency Committee .
The move was expected after the agency opted against making the declaration last week .
`` Over the past few weeks , we have witnessed the emergence of a previously unknown pathogen and witnessed an unprecedented outbreak , '' said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom .
`` We must all act together now to limit further spread . ''
There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in China thus far , with 170 deaths .
Officials in the United States on Thursday announced the first person-to-person transmission of the virus in the country , bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the U.S. to six .
Although Adhanom described the outbreak of the virus , which is called 2019 n-CoV , outside China as `` relatively small '' -- with 98 cases in 18 countries -- he emphasized the need to declare a global public health emergency before it spreads to a country with a `` weaker '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no means a vote of no-confidence '' to the response in China , he said .
`` We would have seen many more cases and probably deaths if not for the actions of the Chinese government . ''
He added that China is setting a `` new standard '' for outbreak response .
The goal of the emergency designation is to mobilize researchers and clinicians to develop effective drug treatments and vaccines .
Officials also noted the need for an `` evidence-based '' response to the outbreak , and said that a secondary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be to `` combat spread of rumors and misinformation '' surrounding the virus and the best way for the public to protect themselves .
WHO Emergency Committee Chairman Didier Houssin said the vote to declare an emergency was `` almost unanimous , '' and that the decision was made because of the number of cases in China , the number of countries with confirmed cases and the fact that `` some countries have taken questionable measures '' with regard to travelers .
Neither he nor his colleagues would identify specific countries or measures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Houssin clarified that by declaring an emergency , WHO officials would be able to work with the counterparts in affected countries to review and potentially revisit these policies .
WHO considers not only the health impact of outbreaks , but the political and economic effects , as well .
Officials from the organization said they have had conversations with the governments of member states regarding the imposition of travel and , in some cases , trade restrictions .
Although several airlines -- including United , American and Delta in the United States @ @ @ @ @ @ @ response to the outbreak , Hussein said airline executives told him the cancellations were made due to a lack of passengers .

People in Beijing wear protective respiratory masks as the coronavirus outbreak has grown in China and spread to other parts of the world. Photo by Stephen Shaver/UP | License Photo
Jan. 30 (UPI) -- World Health Organization officials on Thursday declared the 2019 novel coronavirus outbreak a public health emergency of international concern. The announcement was made following an hours-long meeting of the WHO's Emergency Committee. The move was expected after the agency opted against making the declaration last week. Advertisement
"Over the past few weeks, we have witnessed the emergence of a previously unknown pathogen and witnessed an unprecedented outbreak," said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom. "We must all act together now to limit further spread."
There have been 7,766 confirmed cases of coronavirus in China thus far, with 170 deaths. Officials in the United States on Thursday announced the first person-to-person transmission of the virus in the country, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the U.S. to six.
Although Adhanom described the outbreak of the virus, which is called 2019 n-CoV, outside China as "relatively small" -- with 98 cases in 18 countries -- he emphasized the need to declare a global public health emergency before it spreads to a country with a "weaker" healthcare system.
"This is by no means a vote of no-confidence" to the response in China, he said. "We would have seen many more cases and probably deaths if not for the actions of the Chinese government."
Advertisement
He added that China is setting a "new standard" for outbreak response.
The goal of the emergency designation is to mobilize researchers and clinicians to develop effective drug treatments and vaccines.
Officials also noted the need for an "evidence-based" response to the outbreak, and said that a secondary goal behind declaring it an emergency would be to "combat spread of rumors and misinformation" surrounding the virus and the best way for the public to protect themselves.
WHO Emergency Committee Chairman Didier Houssin said the vote to declare an emergency was "almost unanimous," and that the decision was made because of the number of cases in China, the number of countries with confirmed cases and the fact that "some countries have taken questionable measures" with regard to travelers.
Neither he nor his colleagues would identify specific countries or measures they consider "questionable." However, Houssin clarified that by declaring an emergency, WHO officials would be able to work with the counterparts in affected countries to review and potentially revisit these policies.
WHO considers not only the health impact of outbreaks, but the political and economic effects, as well.
Officials from the organization said they have had conversations with the governments of member states regarding the imposition of travel and, in some cases, trade restrictions.
Advertisement
Although several airlines -- including United, American and Delta in the United States -- have cancelled flights to China in response to the outbreak, Hussein said airline executives told him the cancellations were made due to a lack of passengers.
The United States on Thursday issued a Level 4 travel advisory, urging Americans not to travel to China.


upi--2020-01-30--Minnesota man dies in third fatal grain bin accident this year

EVANSVILLE , Ind.
, Jan. 30 ( UPI ) -- A Minnesota man was killed in a grain bin accident this week , becoming at least the third farmer to die in a silo this year .
Brandon Schaefer , 35 , was working in the bin Tuesday morning , trying to `` loosen up the frozen corn , '' according to the Stearns County Sheriff 's Office , which responded to the accident .
Schaefer 's parents called for help a little after 10 a.m. when they could not find their son and they believed he had fallen into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the bin .
He was taken to a local hospital and pronounced dead .
Schaefer was a sixth generation farmer and worked alongside his father at their farm in Albany , Minn. , according to his obituary .
`` He was very creative and loved woodworking , riding his Harley in the summer and spearfishing in his Grandpa 's spear house , '' his obituary said .
`` Brandon was the happiest being with his friends . ''
Dozens of farmers die in grain bin accidents every year -- many in situations similar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Grain stored in a bin can stick together for a number of reasons , said Jeff Adkisson , a board member on the Grain Handling Safety Council .
When that happens , farmers often enter the bin to manually break it apart .
Without a safety harness , they risk being pulled beneath the grain and suffocating .
Since August , at least 21 people have died in silo accidents in the United States .

A Minnesota man died this week after he fell into a grain bin and was buried in corn. Pixabay
EVANSVILLE, Ind., Jan. 30 (UPI) -- A Minnesota man was killed in a grain bin accident this week, becoming at least the third farmer to die in a silo this year. Brandon Schaefer, 35, was working in the bin Tuesday morning, trying to "loosen up the frozen corn," according to the Stearns County Sheriff's Office, which responded to the accident. Advertisement
Schaefer's parents called for help a little after 10 a.m. when they could not find their son and they believed he had fallen into the corn. Firefighters pulled Schaefer from the bin. He was taken to a local hospital and pronounced dead.
Schaefer was a sixth generation farmer and worked alongside his father at their farm in Albany, Minn., according to his obituary.
"He was very creative and loved woodworking, riding his Harley in the summer and spearfishing in his Grandpa's spear house," his obituary said. "Brandon was the happiest being with his friends."
Dozens of farmers die in grain bin accidents every year -- many in situations similar to the one that killed Schaefer.
Grain stored in a bin can stick together for a number of reasons, said Jeff Adkisson, a board member on the Grain Handling Safety Council. When that happens, farmers often enter the bin to manually break it apart. Without a safety harness, they risk being pulled beneath the grain and suffocating.
Advertisement
Since August, at least 21 people have died in silo accidents in the United States.


upi--2020-01-30--Store sells two jackpot-winning lottery tickets one week apart

Jan. 30 ( UPI ) -- An Australian store is celebrating a double dose of luck after two customers won @ @ @ @ @ week apart .
Carramar Lottery Center and News in Morley , Western Australia , sold @ @ @ @ @ Lotto tickets , earning the player a jackpot of more than $ 1 million .
@ @ @ @ @ week after a couple scored a $ 582,548 jackpot from a Saturday Lotto ticket purchased @ @ @ @ @ `` It 's just luck and the good will of the customers , '' store @ @ @ @ @ officials .
`` I saw a few new faces after the previous draw , so @ @ @ @ @ try out our store will have a good impact for them . ''
Lotterywest spokesperson @ @ @ @ @ is unusually lucky .
`` Every week we welcome Division One winners into our Winners @ @ @ @ @ very unusual to have the same store sell two Division One tickets in the space @ @ @ @ @ Mooney said .

Subscribe | UPI Odd Newsletter Subscribe
Jan. 30 (UPI) -- An Australian store is celebrating a double dose of luck after two customers won major lottery jackpots just one week apart.
Carramar Lottery Center and News in Morley, Western Australia, sold one of three winning Saturday Lotto tickets, earning the player a jackpot of more than $1 million.
Advertisement
The win came just one week after a couple scored a $582,548 jackpot from a Saturday Lotto ticket purchased from the same store.
"It's just luck and the good will of the customers," store owner Milan Gohil told Lotterywest officials. "I saw a few new faces after the previous draw, so I hope their decision to try out our store will have a good impact for them."
Lotterywest spokesperson James Mooney said the store is unusually lucky.
"Every week we welcome Division One winners into our Winners Room, but it's very unusual to have the same store sell two Division One tickets in the space of a week," Mooney said.


upi--2020-01-30--Some trees respond to weight increases by thickening their stems

Jan. 30 ( UPI ) -- As trees get taller and heavier , sprouting branches in various directions , they must augment their support structure -- their trunk -- to maintain stability .
Until now , scientists were n't sure exactly how they did it .
New research suggests most healthy trees have a built in system , called vertical proprioception , that allows them to respond to weight increases with radial growth of the stem .
Scientists were able to demonstrate the vertical proprioception system by altering the aerial weight of a downy birch trees and measuring the response @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added weight by thickening their trunk .
The response was most pronounced in trees with an ability to bend and flex their trunks .
Static trees were n't able to thicken their trunk as efficiently in response to added aerial weight .
`` Even though the idea of plants sensing their own weight and thickening their stem accordingly sounds intuitive , our study is the first one to address this question in trees , '' Juan Alonso-Serra , professor of biological and environmental Sciences at the University of Helsinki , said in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vertical proprioception system , researchers compared the trunk-thickening abilities of normal downy birch trees to a naturally occurring species of birch mutant called elimäki .
After growing upright for three months , elimäki trees suddenly bend from the base and collapses .
When scientists added weight to the branches of elimäki trees during their initial three months of normal growth , they were unable to increase their trunk thickness in response .
Scientists tracked this inability to a single position within the birch genome .
In the future , researchers hope to isolate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ elimäki 's abnormal growth pattern .
Researchers published their analysis of the birch tree and its vertical proprioception abilities this week in the journal Current Biology .

New research suggests most healthy trees have a built in system, called vertical proprioception, that allows them to respond to weight increases with radial growth of the stem. Photo by LUM3N /Pixabay
Jan. 30 (UPI) -- As trees get taller and heavier, sprouting branches in various directions, they must augment their support structure -- their trunk -- to maintain stability. Until now, scientists weren't sure exactly how they did it. New research suggests most healthy trees have a built in system, called vertical proprioception, that allows them to respond to weight increases with radial growth of the stem. Advertisement
Scientists were able to demonstrate the vertical proprioception system by altering the aerial weight of a downy birch trees and measuring the response. Researchers found most trees responded to added weight by thickening their trunk.
The response was most pronounced in trees with an ability to bend and flex their trunks. Static trees weren't able to thicken their trunk as efficiently in response to added aerial weight.
"Even though the idea of plants sensing their own weight and thickening their stem accordingly sounds intuitive, our study is the first one to address this question in trees," Juan Alonso-Serra, professor of biological and environmental Sciences at the University of Helsinki, said in a news release.
To further illuminate the vertical proprioception system, researchers compared the trunk-thickening abilities of normal downy birch trees to a naturally occurring species of birch mutant called elimäki. After growing upright for three months, elimäki trees suddenly bend from the base and collapses.
Advertisement
When scientists added weight to the branches of elimäki trees during their initial three months of normal growth, they were unable to increase their trunk thickness in response. Scientists tracked this inability to a single position within the birch genome. In the future, researchers hope to isolate the specific mutated gene responsible for the elimäki's abnormal growth pattern.
Researchers published their analysis of the birch tree and its vertical proprioception abilities this week in the journal Current Biology.


upi--2020-01-30--Jennifer Lopez, Shakira say Super Bowl LIV halftime show will celebrate diversity

Jan. 30 ( UPI ) -- Jennifer Lopez and Shakira detailed their upcoming Super Bowl LIV halftime performance on Thursday during a press conference in Miami .
The singers will be taking the stage on Sunday during the Pepsi Super Bowl LIV Halftime Show .
The big game will feature the San Francisco 49ers vs. the Kansas City Chiefs .
Lopez said that the performances will have lots of energy and contain heartfelt moments .
`` Our shows feel very different , but they compliment each other , '' Shakira added .
`` It 's a very important moment for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' Shakira continued and said the show will celebrate diversity .
The duo also discussed how they will prepare for the concert and the talked about the pressure of performing on the Super Bowl halftime show .
`` It 's a beautiful kind of intense energy where you just know you have to rise to the occasion , '' Lopez said .
`` You have to be ready .
The National Anthem will be performed by Demi Lovato while `` America the Beautiful '' will be performed by Yolanda Adams and The Children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ release on Sunday a visual and audio album of each performance .
Each performance will go live shortly after they take place on Spotify , Apple Music , Tidal and YouTube .

1/2
Shakira throws a football as Jennifer Lopez watches. The two will perform during half time at Super Bowl LIV. Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI | License Photo
Jan. 30 (UPI) -- Jennifer Lopez and Shakira detailed their upcoming Super Bowl LIV halftime performance on Thursday during a press conference in Miami. The singers will be taking the stage on Sunday during the Pepsi Super Bowl LIV Halftime Show. The big game will feature the San Francisco 49ers vs. the Kansas City Chiefs. Advertisement
Lopez said that the performances will have lots of energy and contain heartfelt moments.
"Our shows feel very different, but they compliment each other," Shakira added.
"It's a very important moment for the Latino community in this country," Shakira continued and said the show will celebrate diversity.
The duo also discussed how they will prepare for the concert and the talked about the pressure of performing on the Super Bowl halftime show.
"It's a beautiful kind of intense energy where you just know you have to rise to the occasion," Lopez said. "You have to be ready.
"It's definitely a ride."
The National Anthem will be performed by Demi Lovato while "America the Beautiful" will be performed by Yolanda Adams and The Children's Voice Chorus.
Advertisement
The NFL will release on Sunday a visual and audio album of each performance. Each performance will go live shortly after they take place on Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal and YouTube.


upi--2020-01-30--In photos: Highlights from the week of January 27, 2020 in Washington, D.C.

The impeachment trial of President Donald Trump moves into its second week in the U.S. Senate , and Israeli Prime @ @ @ @ @ White House for the announcement of a new Mideast peace plan among the highlights of @ @ @ @ @ , 2020 in Washington , D.C .

President Donald Trump signs an executive order to create the office of a human trafficking czar after delivering remarks during the White House Summit on Human Trafficking: The 20th Anniversary of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 in the East Room of the the White House on Tuesday. Photo by Leigh Vogel/UPI


upi--2020-01-30--Think tank: U.S. trade deficit with China cost 3.7M jobs since 2001

Jan. 30 ( UPI ) -- The `` massive '' trade deficit between the United States and China cost the former some 3.7 million jobs during the first two decades of the 21st century , the Economic Policy Institute said Thursday .
The Washington , D.C.-based think tank said the trade deficit between the two countries is one of the reasons why manufacturing employment in the United States has n't improved along with the rest of the economy since the 2008 Great Recession .
The deficit has been growing since 2001 -- when China entered the World Trade Organization -- @ @ @ @ @ @ @ billion since 2008 .
Among the jobs lost are those in industries in which the United States has traditionally held a competitive advantage , the Economy Policy Institute said , including in metals , machinery and fabricated metal products .
Other sectors also suffered job losses -- biotechnology , life sciences , aerospace and nuclear technology .
Among the states hardest hit by the job losses are California , Idaho , Indiana , Massachusetts , Minnesota , New Hampshire , North Carolina , Oregon , Vermont and Wisconsin .
The largest percentage of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3.66 percent of total employment ) and the great number of job losses was in California ( 654,100 ) .
The trade deficit continued to grow during the first two years of the Trump administration , rising from $ 347 billion in 2016 to $ 420 billion in 2018 , a 21 percent increase .
President Donald Trump and Chinese Vice Premier Liu He signed a partial trade agreement earlier this month to resolve an 18-month trade dispute .
Trump raised tariffs on China to combat the trade deficit , which led to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trade war .
The `` phase one '' agreement loosens some U.S. tariffs against China and secures new purchases of American-made items for Beijing .

Most of the job losses were in metals and metal fabricating. File Photo by Stephen Shaver/UPI | License Photo
Jan. 30 (UPI) -- The "massive" trade deficit between the United States and China cost the former some 3.7 million jobs during the first two decades of the 21st century, the Economic Policy Institute said Thursday. The Washington, D.C.-based think tank said the trade deficit between the two countries is one of the reasons why manufacturing employment in the United States hasn't improved along with the rest of the economy since the 2008 Great Recession. Advertisement
The deficit has been growing since 2001 -- when China entered the World Trade Organization -- and has added an additional $150 billion since 2008.
Among the jobs lost are those in industries in which the United States has traditionally held a competitive advantage, the Economy Policy Institute said, including in metals, machinery and fabricated metal products. Other sectors also suffered job losses -- biotechnology, life sciences, aerospace and nuclear technology.
Among the states hardest hit by the job losses are California, Idaho, Indiana, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Oregon, Vermont and Wisconsin. The largest percentage of job losses was in New Hampshire (3.66 percent of total employment) and the great number of job losses was in California (654,100).
Advertisement
The trade deficit continued to grow during the first two years of the Trump administration, rising from $347 billion in 2016 to $420 billion in 2018, a 21 percent increase.
President Donald Trump and Chinese Vice Premier Liu He signed a partial trade agreement earlier this month to resolve an 18-month trade dispute. Trump raised tariffs on China to combat the trade deficit, which led to more than a year of a tit-for-tat trade war.
The "phase one" agreement loosens some U.S. tariffs against China and secures new purchases of American-made items for Beijing.