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Science News for August 27, 2013


Hybrid screening strategy emerges for colorectal cancer

A new study suggests a hybrid screening strategy that combines annual or biennial fecal immunological tests with a single colonoscopy at age 66 may reduce colorectal cancer incidence and mortality while lowering costs. This approach can deliver health benefits comparable to current strategies, making it an attractive alternative.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateAug 27, 2013

A genetic treasure hunting in sorghum may benefit crop improvement

A team of researchers from BGI Shenzhen has made a groundbreaking genetic discovery in sorghum, revealing the crop's vast genetic variation and complex domestication history. The study provides a valuable resource for the genetic improvement of sorghum and other grass species.

SourceBGI Shenzhen·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 27, 2013
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Long-term memory in the cortex

Researchers find that motor cortical circuits store associative memories, not just the hippocampus. This discovery suggests a new approach to treating neurological diseases like amnesia and Alzheimer's.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 27, 2013

Anderson to receive GSA's 2013 Nathan Shock New Investigator Award

The Gerontological Society of America has awarded Rozalyn M. Anderson the 2013 Nathan Shock New Investigator Award for her work on how metabolism contributes to disease vulnerability, including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. The award is presented at GSA's Annual Scientific Meeting in New Orleans.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·DateAug 27, 2013

Genetic variant identified that may increase heart disease risk among people with type 2 diabetes

A study led by Harvard School of Public Health identified a novel genetic variant associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease in people with type 2 diabetes. The finding suggests that the genetic risk factors for cardiovascular disease may be different among those with and without diabetes.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·DateAug 27, 2013

Generational shift in attitudes among young footballers towards gay teammates

A recent study has found that attitudes towards gay athletes among young British players have shifted significantly over the past decade. Young footballers on the verge of becoming professionals are now more likely to be supportive of gay teammates, with all participants openly accepting one of their colleagues coming out.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalInternational Review for the Sociology of Sport·DateAug 27, 2013
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Researchers develop novel polymer to help oral medications reach the bloodstream

Researchers at Virginia Tech and Purdue University have developed a novel polymer that helps orally administered drugs reach the bloodstream. The polymer, made from natural cellulose, prevents crystallization and enhances drug stability and solubility, making it potentially more effective for treating serious illnesses.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalMolecular Pharmaceutics·DateAug 27, 2013

Tennessee high school students publish in top science journal

Two Tennessee high school students, Dalton Chaffee and Hayes Griffin, published their research on mate choice in the journal Evolution, shedding new light on how mate selection is influenced by sexual imprinting. The study revealed that females' ability to identify preferred mates affects the evolution of sexual imprinting.

SourceNational Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis (NIMBioS)·JournalEvolution·DateAug 27, 2013

No evidence of residential property value impacts near US wind turbines

A comprehensive US study of over 50,000 home sales near 67 wind facilities found no measurable impact on nearby property values. The researchers controlled for various factors using sophisticated techniques, supporting previous findings that widespread impacts from wind turbines are likely to be small or non-existent.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateAug 27, 2013

Calcium supplements may not prevent bone loss in women with breast cancer

A recent study published in Critical Reviews in Oncology/Hematology found that calcium and vitamin D supplements do not prevent bone mineral density loss in women undergoing breast cancer treatment. Women with breast cancer experience a higher rate of bone loss than healthy counterparts, increasing their risk of fractures.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalCritical Reviews in Oncology/Hematology·DateAug 27, 2013
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Contagious savings

Researchers found that commercial Alternative Quality Contract programs reduce spending and improve quality for Medicare beneficiaries served by participating providers. Providers in these plans implement systemic changes that result in higher-value care for all patients, not just those covered by the plan.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalJAMA·DateAug 27, 2013

Fernand's remnants still drenching eastern Mexico

Tropical Storm Fernand's remnants are still streaming moisture over eastern Mexico, causing heavy rainfall and cloud cover in the region. The National Meteorological Service of Mexico expects intense and heavy rain to hit northeastern states, east and central Mexico, with a warning remaining in effect for heavy rainfall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 27, 2013

CU study relies on twins and their parents to understand height-IQ connection

A CU-Boulder study finds that the link between height and IQ is due to both genetic factors, such as pleiotropy, and mate choice, where taller individuals are more likely to pair with smarter counterparts. The research used data from over 7,900 twins and their parents to disentangle these causes.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateAug 27, 2013
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

A strategy for combating drug-resistant cancers

Researchers have identified a compound, I-Lys, that disrupts the interaction between CASP7 and XIAP in drug-resistant cancer cells, leading to activation of cell death and reduction in malignancies. The study suggests a promising approach for combating drug-resistant cancers.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 27, 2013

Early diabetes interventions may also reduce heart disease risk

A recent study found that intensive lifestyle changes and metformin treatment reduced cholesterol levels and improved triglyceride profiles, lowering the risk of heart disease. The Diabetes Prevention Program analyzed over 1,600 participants, showing positive changes in blood particle distribution.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateAug 27, 2013

Expectant mothers' periodontal health vital to health of her baby

The American Academy of Periodontology urges pregnant women to prioritize periodontal health to minimize risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Regular dental cleanings and monitoring can help prevent premature birth or low-birth weight babies.

SourceAmerican Academy of Periodontology·JournalJournal of Periodontology·DateAug 27, 2013

NREL study suggests cost gap for Western renewables could narrow by 2025

A new NREL study indicates that wind and solar power electricity generation could become cost-competitive with natural gas by 2025 in certain regions of the West. The report identifies areas where renewable energy development is likely to occur, including Wyoming, New Mexico, Montana, and Idaho.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·DateAug 27, 2013

UTHealth, Swedish researchers uncover mystery in blood clotting disorder

Researchers from UTHealth and Lund University have discovered a genetic variant in the Factor V gene causing an abnormal form of the protein FV-Short, leading to excessive TFPI formation and uncontrolled bleeding. The study provides insight into the clotting process and offers potential treatment possibilities for the rare condition.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 27, 2013
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Personalized AF management needed to close mortality gap

The European Society of Cardiology emphasizes the need for personalized AF management to close the mortality gap. Current therapies have only improved mortality by 5-10%. A new taxonomy of AF is proposed based on its pathophysiology, and biomarkers, imaging, and ECG are being studied to improve treatment.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEP Europace·DateAug 27, 2013

Control scheme dynamically maintains unstable quantum system

Scientists have successfully controlled a cloud of 40,000 rubidium atoms to maintain them in a non-equilibrium state analogous to the inverted pendulum. By applying bursts of microwave radiation, they stabilized the system's internal spins and prevented it from evolving towards stability.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 27, 2013
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Can toxicity of a DNA drug be predicted and minimized?

A novel machine learning-based approach predicts hepatotoxic potential of antisense oligonucleotides based on chemical sequence. The method achieved 74% accuracy in predicting toxicity and was used to redesign a therapeutic oligonucleotide with reduced potential for liver harm.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalNucleic Acid Therapeutics·DateAug 27, 2013

Review outlines best practice standards for coordinator-based fracture liaison services

The report provides 13 key standards for effective coordinator-based FLS services, which have been shown to close the treatment gap and manage high-risk patients. Implementing these standards can help healthcare providers identify and treat patients at risk of secondary fractures, reducing future fracture risk and associated costs.

SourceInternational Osteoporosis Foundation·JournalOsteoporosis International·DateAug 27, 2013

Investigational oral regimen for hepatitis C shows promise in NIH trial

A new all-oral drug regimen has been found to be highly effective in clearing the hepatitis C virus and well tolerated in patients who historically have had unfavorable prognoses. The study showed a cure rate of about 70 percent using regimens without interferon, offering hope for those with chronic HCV infection.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·DateAug 27, 2013
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Rim Fire update Aug. 27, 2013

Fire crews worked to contain the Rim Fire in California, spotting across the line near Duckwall Ridge and expanding evacuations along Highway 108. NASA's Terra satellite captured images of the fire's spread, highlighting the need for heavy aircraft support to slow its progress.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 27, 2013
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Dating violence impedes victims' earnings

A recent study by Michigan State University researchers found that dating violence in adolescence leads to lower education levels and reduced earnings. The study, which analyzed survey data from over 500 single mothers, suggests that victims of dating violence are more likely to drop out of school or have limited career opportunities.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateAug 27, 2013

Hearing loss associated with a lack of cell-cell junctions

A mutation in the TRIC gene disrupts tight cell junctions, creating a toxic environment that leads to cochlear hair cell loss. Researchers have created a mouse model to study human TRIC-associated deafness and explore potential treatments for restoring tight junction function.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 27, 2013

Winter depression not as common as many think, OSU research shows

A recent study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that depressive symptoms are not as influenced by time of year or weather conditions as previously thought. Researchers analyzed data from over 800 participants and concluded that people may be exaggerating the impact of seasonal changes on their mood.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders·DateAug 27, 2013

Low inflammation may explain healthy metabolic status in some obese people

A recent study found that reduced levels of inflammation may explain how some obese individuals remain metabolically healthy. Inflammation is associated with a higher risk of diabetes and heart disease, but some obese people do not develop high blood pressure or unfavorable cholesterol profiles.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateAug 27, 2013
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Study identifies molecular process behind form of non-syndromic deafness

A new study identified an underlying molecular process causing DFNB49 non-syndromic hearing loss, which may also affect other organs. Researchers found that a mutation in the TRIC gene disrupts tricellulin production, leading to structural changes and potential cellular damage.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 27, 2013

How quickly can a bacterium grow?

E. coli bacteria produce at most six times more heat than needed to meet thermodynamic constraints, suggesting they could grow faster and still obey the second law of thermodynamics. This finding has implications for synthetic biology applications and may support the hypothesis that RNA evolved before DNA.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateAug 27, 2013
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Novel approach to gene regulation can activate multiple genes simultaneously

Researchers at Whitehead Institute developed a new gene regulation system called CRISPR-on, which can activate multiple genes concurrently and precisely control their expression levels. The system has been shown to be effective in both mouse and human cells as well as in mouse embryos.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalCell Research·DateAug 27, 2013

Anchoring ABL for a better fate

Researchers uncover how ABL regulatory unit controls cell fate in CML, with implications for cancer treatment. The study finds that anchoring ABL on the cell membrane is essential for apoptosis, highlighting a potential target for novel therapies.

SourcePublicase International·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 27, 2013
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Conspiracy theories not to blame for underrepresentation in HIV studies

A new study found no link between distrust in medical research and willingness to participate in related studies, contrary to popular belief. African Americans and Mexican Americans were more likely to endorse HIV conspiracy beliefs but significantly more willing to volunteer for HIV vaccine research.

SourceSpringer Science+Business Media·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateAug 27, 2013

New research shows benefit of interval training for women

A new study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is beneficial for women, with a significant effect on cardiovascular performance compared to men. Women worked at a higher percentage of their maximum heart rate and oxygen consumption during HIIT.

SourceBowling Green State University·JournalThe Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research·DateAug 27, 2013

NASA sees Tropical Storm Kong-Rey battling wind shear

Tropical Storm Kong-Rey is experiencing strong thunderstorms in its southern and western quadrants, while the northern quadrant shows weaker development due to northeasterly wind shear. The storm is expected to pass east of Taiwan before weakening in the next couple of days.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 27, 2013

Scientists prevent preterm birth caused by gene-environment interactions

Researchers have identified a molecular signature in human tissue samples from women who experienced premature birth. A combinatory treatment strategy involving rapamycin and progesterone effectively prevented preterm birth in mice model, suggesting potential for reducing incidence in high-risk women.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 27, 2013
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Origin of a hereditary east Texas bleeding disorder

A genetic mutation in coagulation factor 5 is identified as the cause of a severe hereditary bleeding disorder in East Texas. The mutation leads to the production of a truncated form of FV, which forms a complex with tissue factor pathway inhibitor-α that inhibits coagulation pathways.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 27, 2013
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

European hunter-gatherers owned pigs as early as 4600 BC

New research shows that European hunter-gatherers acquired domesticated pigs from nearby farmers around 4600 BC. The interaction between the two groups led to the incorporation of farming and breeding of livestock into their culture.

SourceDurham University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 27, 2013

JCI early table of contents for Aug. 27, 2013

Researchers have identified a link between the tight junction protein TRIC and cochlear hair cell preservation, as well as a potential mechanism for combatting drug-resistant cancers. Additionally, studies have found that donor tissue can lead to cancer formation in transplant recipients, highlighting the importance of careful screening.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 27, 2013
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Study finds tumor suppressor may actually fuel aggressive leukemia

Researchers from Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center found that inhibiting RUNX1 protein could be a promising therapeutic strategy for acute myeloid leukemia. The study suggests that blocking this protein may stop the development of leukemia cells, offering potential new treatment options.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 27, 2013

Gene makes some HIV-infected patients more at risk for fungal disease

Researchers have identified a genetic link between HIV infection and increased susceptibility to cryptococcal disease, which can cause devastating fungal meningitis. Patients with the high-affinity Fc receptor gene are up to 20 times more likely to develop the disease, highlighting the need for a predictive test to save lives.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalmBio·DateAug 27, 2013

Do girls really experience more math anxiety?

Girls report higher levels of math anxiety in general surveys, but their actual math class performance reveals no significant difference from boys. Lower self-reported competence may be the underlying cause of this discrepancy.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 27, 2013

3 subtypes of gastric cancer suggest different treatment approaches

Researchers identified three distinct molecular classifications of gastric cancer that respond differently to therapies, offering a promising new approach to treatment. The study found that tumors can be grouped into proliferative, metabolic and mesenchymal subtypes, each with unique genomic and epigenomic properties.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateAug 27, 2013

Why are some cells more cancer prone?

Researchers discovered 10 specialized subregions within the midgut of fruit flies, each with unique stem cell functions. These regional differences may explain why some organs generate cancer frequently while others rarely. The study sheds light on the intricate relationships between tissue organization and stem cell function.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·DateAug 27, 2013
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

New treatments better than standard ones just over half the time

Researchers analyzed over 350,000 patients in 860 phase III trials and found that new treatments outperform existing ones around half the time. The study suggests the randomized controlled trial system is working as intended despite needing tweaks for better design and reporting.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalNature·DateAug 27, 2013

Harmful particles in Icelandic volcanic ash fell first, says new research

New research by Dr Bernard Grobety reveals that crystalline particles in Icelandic volcanic ash are more harmful to jet engines and fall out of the cloud faster than glassy particles. The study aims to improve authorities' response to future eruptions by understanding the behavior of these particles.

SourceEuropean Association of Geochemistry·DateAug 27, 2013

Existence of new element confirmed

Researchers confirm existence of new element with atomic number 115, gaining insight into super-heavy atomic nuclei. The discovery was made using calcium ions to measure photons in connection with the element's alpha decay.

SourceLund University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 27, 2013
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Combination drug regimen may benefit patients with hepatitis C

A combination of sofosbuvir and ribavirin achieved high sustained virologic response rates in patients with unfavorable treatment characteristics, including advanced liver disease and high baseline HCV RNA levels. The regimen was well-tolerated and safe, with a lower relapse rate compared to traditional interferon-based therapy.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateAug 27, 2013

Grants help expand pharmacy services for the homeless

The University of Houston College of Pharmacy has received a national award for its work in providing essential health care services to Houston's homeless population. The clinic serves over 3,000 patients and will use the grant to expand its pharmacy supply.

SourceUniversity of Houston·DateAug 27, 2013

T-cell targeted therapy tested in type 1 diabetes study

A phase II study tested thymoglobulin, an antithymocyte globulin treatment, in new-onset type 1 diabetic patients. While most younger patients showed decline in beta cell function, older patients experienced little change. The study did not meet its primary endpoint and may have identified biomarkers for safety and efficacy.

SourceBenaroya Research Institute at Virginia Mason·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateAug 27, 2013
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Divorce elevates risk for depression, but only for some people

A new study published in Clinical Psychological Science found that divorce elevates the risk of future depressive episodes, but only for individuals who already have a history of depression. The study suggests that separation and divorce may exacerbate underlying risk rather than directly increasing rates of depression.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateAug 27, 2013

Fractions gain traction with concrete models

A study by Concordia University found that students grasp math more easily when real-world examples are used. Teachers should continually make connections between abstract numbers and models, making the concept of fractions clearer.

SourceConcordia University·JournalTeaching Children Mathematics·DateAug 27, 2013

An alga stressed by the light

Excessive sunlight inhibits algae growth, leading to yellowish coloration and stress. The study found a direct relationship between solar radiation, antioxidant activity, and C:N ratio in the alga.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalJournal of Sea Research·DateAug 27, 2013
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

University of Tennessee lecturer investigates response to 'bad' art

A University of Tennessee study challenges the mere exposure effect by exposing students to repeatedly viewed 'bad' and 'good' artworks. The researchers found that repeated exposure did not increase liking for the poorly regarded pieces, while appreciation for the well-regarded works remained steady.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee at Knoxville·JournalThe British Journal of Aesthetics·DateAug 27, 2013

The extraordinary evolution of REVs

Researchers discover REVs originated in mammals and spread to birds through medical intervention, revealing an unusual evolutionary history. The study suggests REVs were introduced into poultry and subsequently into avian cell culture systems, impacting wild birds and domestic poultry.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 27, 2013

Earthquakes and tectonics in Pamir Tien Shan

Researchers develop new tomographic approach to image shallow seismic velocity structure, revealing subducting continental crust for the first time. This allows for early detection of landslides and earthquakes in Central Asia.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateAug 27, 2013
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

New energy model offers transparency to let others replicate findings

Researchers from North Carolina State University have developed a new open-source energy economy optimization (EEO) model called Temoa. The model provides transparency into its workings, allowing anyone to check its accuracy and replicate findings. With this advancement, policymakers can make more informed decisions about energy policy...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEnergy Economics·DateAug 27, 2013

Illegal fires set in Indonesia cause smog problem

Deliberate forest fires in Indonesia set by palm oil companies are causing severe smog that threatens public health. The fires result in a pollution index of over 400, making it life-threatening to vulnerable populations.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 27, 2013