среда, 14 ноября 2012 г.

Games

Games

Flying High With Icarus Online - Developer Interview

Posted: 14 Nov 2012 03:11 AM PST

GameSpot's Jonathan Toyad speaks with the lead developer of WeMade Games' latest MMORPG that uses the CryEngine 3; only at G-Star 2012.

Read and Post Comments | Get the full article at GameSpot

"Flying High With Icarus Online - Developer Interview" was posted by rreydebarros on Wed, 14 Nov 2012 03:11:55 -0800

New Marvel online game set for Asian regions

Posted: 13 Nov 2012 10:22 PM PST

Disney Interactive signs contract with Korean developer Smilegate for upcoming multiplayer online battle arena title; will be out in 2014.

 

The multiplayer online battle arena space dominated by DOTA 2 and League of Legends may have a new contender.

According to site MMO Culture, Disney Interactive has signed a contract with Korean developer Smilegate (Crossfire) to create a MOBA title using characters from comic property Marvel. The game, dubbed Project PK, will only be targeted for Asian markets and will be out in 2014.

No other details are currently present. Smilegate has yet to get back to GameSpot for more additional information. For more information on recent titles featuring the Marvel license, check out GameSpot's coverage on Marvel Heroes.

Read and Post Comments | Get the full article at GameSpot

"New Marvel online game set for Asian regions" was posted by Jonathan Toyad on Tue, 13 Nov 2012 22:22:47 -0800

Army Vs Aliens Defense - Screenshots

Posted: 14 Nov 2012 03:10 AM PST

In this game and for the first time, choose your camp:
- Defend your Alien base against Human army.
- Defend your Human base against Alien army.

A High Quality and an incredible content for a FREE game:
- 10 different units for each camp (Bomber, Helicopter, Helicopter RPG, JetFighter, Jeep, Tank, Robot, Paratrooper, Jetpack, Soldier)
- 4 powers to erase your enemies.
- 6 super weapons: black hole, attractor beam, bouncing ball, flamethrower, warhead, explosive cap.

Play and have fun for hours and hours:
- Dozens of missions to succeed.
- Achievements to unlock.
- Do evolve your powers and weapons on 3 levels.
- Improve your base and customize it.

Fist of the North Star: Ken's Rage 2 - Screenshots

Posted: 14 Nov 2012 03:05 AM PST

Fist of the North Star: Ken's Rage 2 will offer players a variety of modes and new features:
- Legend mode, follows the storyline of the entire manga, starting with a re-imagined version of 'Raoh' and covering 'Celestial Emperor' and 'Land of Shura'. This faithful adaptation ensures that this mode can be enjoyed by both fans of the manga and new comers to Kenshiro's post-apocalyptic world. Different characters will be controlled for each episode while 'boss' encounters will feature entire famous scenes from the manga, recreated in intricate detail.
- Over 20 playable characters will be available, including Falco, Shachi, Shew and Juza.
- Dynamic new moves.  The destructive power of the techniques of Hokuto Shinken and Nanto Seiken meet the intense action of the Warriors series to produce a thrilling experience. In addition to the signature moves of the first title, new actions such as 'sprint' and 'dodge' have been added to the move sets.
- Dream Mode introduces new, original storylines to the Fist of the North Star Universe while bridging the gaps between parts of the main story, often focusing on some of the series' minor characters.
- Online Co-Op and Versus play. For the first time, Dream Mode will be playable in co-op or versus play via the internet.
- In addition, a variety of character costumes, and stages will be available as downloadable content.

Sensors, Vol. 12, Pages 15827-15840: Assessment of Fluorescent Particles for Surface Flow Analysis 

Posted: 14 Nov 2012 12:00 AM PST

In this paper, a systematic performance assessment of the measurement system for surface flow analysis developed by our group in (Tauro et al., Sensors, 2010) is presented. The system is based on the detection of buoyant fluorescent microspheres through alow-cost apparatus, which incorporates light sources to elicit fluorescence response and a digital camera to identify the particles' transit. Experiments are conducted using green fluorescent particles and further tests are executed to evaluate the system performance forred and orange particles varying in emission wavelength, degree of biocompatibility, and cost. The influence of the following parameters on surface flow sensing using fluorescent beads is investigated: (i) distance of the light sources from the water surface, (ii) presence of an ad-hoc filter tuned at the particle emission wavelength, (iii) camera resolution and frame rate, (iv) flow regime, and (v) ambient light. Experimental results are used to inform implementation guidelines for surface flow analysis in natural environments. 

Sensors, Vol. 12, Pages 15820-15826: Optical-Based Sensors for Monitoring Corrosion of Reinforcement Rebar via an Etched Cladding Bragg Grating

Posted: 14 Nov 2012 12:00 AM PST

In this paper, we present the development and testing of an optical-based sensor for monitoring the corrosion of reinforcement rebar. The testing was carried out using an 80% etched-cladding Fibre Bragg grating sensor to monitor the production of corrosion waste in a localized region of the rebar. Progression of corrosion can be sensed by observing the reflected wavelength shift of the FBG sensor. With the presence of corrosion, the etched-FBG reflected spectrum was shifted by 1.0 nm. In addition, with an increase in fringe pattern and continuously, step-like drop in power of the Bragg reflected spectrum was also displayed.

Molecules, Vol. 17, Pages 13503-13529: Therapeutic Applications of Nucleic Acids and Their Analogues in Toll-like Receptor Signaling

Posted: 14 Nov 2012 12:00 AM PST

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) belong to a family of innate immune receptors that detect and clear invading microbial pathogens. Specifically intracellular TLRs such as TLR3, TLR7, TLR8 and TLR9 recognize nucleic acids such as double-stranded RNA, single-stranded RNA and CpG DNA respectively derived from microbial components. Upon infection, nucleic acid sensing TLRs signal within endosomal compartment triggering the induction of essential proinflammatory cytokines and type I interferons to initiate innate immune responses thereby leading to a critical role in the development of adaptive immune responses. Thus, stimulation of TLRs by nucleic acids is a promising area of research for the development of novel therapeutic strategies against pathogenic infection, allergies, malignant neoplasms and autoimmunity. This review summarizes the therapeutic applications of nucleic acids or nucleic acid analogues through the modulation of TLR signaling pathways.

Molecules, Vol. 17, Pages 13483-13502: Investigation of the Biological Properties of (Hetero)Aromatic Thiosemicarbazones

Posted: 14 Nov 2012 12:00 AM PST

Two series of thiosemicarbazone-based iron chelators (twenty-seven compounds) were designed and synthesized using a microwave-assisted approach. Quinoline and halogenated phenyl were selected as parent scaffolds on the basis of a similarity search. The lipophilicity of the synthesized compounds was measured using HPLC and then calculated. Primary in vitro screening of the synthesized compounds was performed against eight pathogenic fungal strains. Only a few compounds showed moderate activity against fungi, and (E)-2-(quinolin-2-ylvinyl)-N,N-dimethylhydrazine-carbothioamide appeared to be more effective than fluconazole against most of the fungal strains tested. Antiproliferative activity was measured using a human colon cancer cell line (HCT-116). Several of the tested compounds showed submicromolar antiproliferative activity. Compounds were also tested for their activity related to the inhibition of photosynthetic electron transport (PET) in spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) chloroplasts. The structure-activity relationships are discussed for all of the compounds.

IJMS, Vol. 13, Pages 14956-14961: Polymorphisms in Myostatin Gene and Associations with Growth Traits in the Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio L.)

Posted: 14 Nov 2012 12:00 AM PST

Myostatin (MSTN) is a member of the transforming growth factor-β superfamily that negatively regulates skeletal muscle development and growth. In the present study, partial genomic fragments of MSTN were screened for single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in selected common carp individuals from wild populations, and two SNPs in intron 2 (c.371 + 749A > G, c.371 + 781T > C) and two synonymous SNPs in exon 3 (c.42A > G, c.72C > T) were identified. Genotyping by direct sequencing of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products for these four SNPs were performed in 162 individuals from a commercial hatchery population. Association analysis showed that two SNPs in exon 3 were significantly associated with body weight (BW) and condition factor (K), and haplotype analyses revealed that haplotype H7H8 showed better growth performance. Our results demonstrated that some of the SNPs in MSTN may have positive effects on growth traits and suggested that MSTN could be a candidate gene for growth and marker-assisted selection in common carp.

Toxins, Vol. 4, Pages 1309-1322: A Metabolomic Approach to Clarifying the Effect of AST-120 on 5/6 Nephrectomized Rats by Capillary Electrophoresis with Mass Spectrometry (CE-MS)

Posted: 14 Nov 2012 12:00 AM PST

The oral adsorbent AST-120 is composed of spherical carbon particles and has an adsorption ability for certain small-molecular-weight compounds that accumulate in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). So far, very few compounds are known to be adsorbed by AST-120 in vivo. To examine the effect of AST-120 in vivo, we comprehensively evaluated the plasma concentrations of 146 compounds (61 anions and 85 cations) in CKD model rats, with or without four weeks of treatment with AST-120. By capillary electrophoresis with mass spectrometry, we identified 6 anions and 17 cations that were significantly decreased by AST-120 treatment. In contrast, we also identified 2 cations that were significantly increased by AST-120. Among them, 4 anions, apart from indoxyl sulfate and hippurate, and 19 cations were newly identified in this study. The plasma levels of N-acetyl-neuraminate, 4-pyridoxate, 4-oxopentanoate, glycine, γ-guanidinobutyrate, N-γ-ethylglutamine, allantoin, cytosine, 5-methylcytosine and imidazole-4-acetate were significantly increased in the CKD model compared with the sham-operated group, and were significantly decreased by AST-120 treatment. Therefore, these 10 compounds could be added as uremic compounds that indicate the effect of AST-120 treatment. This study provides useful information not only for identifying the indicators of AST-120, but also for clarifying changes in the metabolic profile by AST-120 treatment in the clinical setting.

Religions, Vol. 3, Pages 1085-1093: A European (German) View on Comparative Theology: Dialogue with My Own Past

Posted: 14 Nov 2012 12:00 AM PST

For the last couple of years, particularly after the publication of the (German) book “Comparative Theology” by Bernhold Reinhardt and Klaus von Stosch, there was a significant attentiveness of this subject amongst German scholars. For many, it was the long anticipated antithesis/alternative to the pluralist theology of religions, even if it had not been devised explicitly to serve as such an alternative. For others, it has been an appropriate way to express their desire for a substantial interreligious dialogue in a theologically responsible way. This paper tries to review some of the major German contributions (being read alongside international ones) and reactions to Comparative Theology and to search for the motive behind its sudden popularity in some circles. It will also try to reconstruct the possibilities for Comparative Theology within the wider setting of the process and development of religious traditions as they grow and change in never-ending interaction and communication within the history of religions, ideas and society.

Primordia - Screenshots

Posted: 14 Nov 2012 02:37 AM PST

Features
- An epic storyline about the extinction of the human race
- Voiceover work starring fan favorite Logan Cunningham (Bastion)
- Gorgeous post-apocalyptic setting
- Optional puzzles - learn more about the world the more you play

Wii U: Nintendo’s useful guide to Nintendo Network, Miiverse, and other console features, is useful

Posted: 14 Nov 2012 02:44 AM PST

Nintendo has released a useful Wii U video guide covering Nintendo Network, Miiverse, and other hardware features. If you've been paying close attention

Larry Wilson: Bobby Fischer makes it back to Pasadena

Posted: 14 Nov 2012 01:29 AM PST

But, in the `40s and `50s, L. Ron Hubbard when he was still a mere science fiction writer and JPL co-founder and dark arts practitioner Jack Parsons; in the pioneer era huckster geniuses such as Colonel G.G. Green - patent medicines - and "Professor" Thaddeus Lowe, the Civil War aeronaut who made millions in hydrogen and lost it all on the failed ... (more)

Animals, Vol. 2, Pages 628-639: Animal Sentience: Where Are We and Where Are We Heading?

Posted: 14 Nov 2012 12:00 AM PST

The science of animal sentience underpins the entire animal welfare movement. Demonstrating objectively what animals are capable of is key to achieving a positive change in attitudes and actions towards animals, and a real, sustainable difference for animal welfare. This paper briefly summarises understanding and acceptance of animal sentience through the ages. Although not an exhaustive history, it highlights some of the leading figures whose opinions and work have most affected perspectives of animal sentience. There follows a review of the current state of animal sentience, what is known, and what the main limitations have been for the development of the study of sentience. The paper concludes with some thoughts for the future of the science, and where it should be going in order to most benefit animal welfare.

Viruses, Vol. 4, Pages 3132-3161: Running Loose or Getting Lost: How HIV-1 Counters and Capitalizes on APOBEC3-Induced Mutagenesis through Its Vif Protein

Posted: 14 Nov 2012 12:00 AM PST

Human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) dynamics reflect an intricate balance within the viruses’ host. The virus relies on host replication factors, but must escape or counter its host’s antiviral restriction factors. The interaction between the HIV-1 protein Vif and many cellular restriction factors from the APOBEC3 protein family is a prominent example of this evolutionary arms race. The viral infectivity factor (Vif) protein largely neutralizes APOBEC3 proteins, which can induce in vivo hypermutations in HIV-1 to the extent of lethal mutagenesis, and ensures the production of viable virus particles. HIV-1 also uses the APOBEC3-Vif interaction to modulate its own mutation rate in harsh or variable environments, and it is a model of adaptation in a coevolutionary setting. Both experimental evidence and the substantiation of the underlying dynamics through coevolutionary models are presented as complementary views of a coevolutionary arms race.

Viruses, Vol. 4, Pages 3109-3131: Cellular Prion Protein: From Physiology to Pathology

Posted: 14 Nov 2012 12:00 AM PST

The human cellular prion protein (PrPC) is a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchored membrane glycoprotein with two N-glycosylation sites at residues 181 and 197. This protein migrates in several bands by Western blot analysis (WB). Interestingly, PNGase F treatment of human brain homogenates prior to the WB, which is known to remove the N-glycosylations, unexpectedly gives rise to two dominant bands, which are now known as C-terminal (C1) and N-terminal (N1) fragments. This resembles the β-amyloid precursor protein (APP) in Alzheimer disease (AD), which can be physiologically processed by α-, β-, and γ-secretases. The processing of APP has been extensively studied, while the identity of the cellular proteases involved in the proteolysis of PrPC and their possible role in prion biology has remained limited and controversial. Nevertheless, there is a strong correlation between the neurotoxicity caused by prion proteins and the blockade of their normal proteolysis. For example, expression of non-cleavable PrPC mutants in transgenic mice generates neurotoxicity, even in the absence of infectious prions, suggesting that PrPC proteolysis is physiologically and pathologically important. As many mouse models of prion diseases have recently been developed and the knowledge about the proteases responsible for the PrPC proteolysis is accumulating, we examine the historical experimental evidence and highlight recent studies that shed new light on this issue.

Viruses, Vol. 4, Pages 3090-3108: Influenza B-Cells Protective Epitope Characterization: A Passkey for the Rational Design of New Broad-Range Anti-Influenza Vaccines

Posted: 14 Nov 2012 12:00 AM PST

The emergence of new influenza strains causing pandemics represents a serious threat to human health. From 1918, four influenza pandemics occurred, caused by H1N1, H2N2 and H3N2 subtypes. Moreover, in 1997 a novel influenza avian strain belonging to the H5N1 subtype infected humans. Nowadays, even if its transmission is still circumscribed to avian species, the capability of the virus to infect humans directly from avian reservoirs can result in fatalities. Moreover, the risk that this or novel avian strains could adapt to inter-human transmission, the development of resistance to anti-viral drugs and the lack of an effective prevention are all incumbent problems for the world population. In this scenario, the identification of broadly neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) directed against conserved regions shared among influenza isolates has raised hopes for the development of monoclonal antibody-based immunotherapy and “universal” anti-influenza vaccines.

Biology, Vol. 1, Pages 639-657: An Eco-Evolutionary Model for Demographic and Phenological Responses in Migratory Birds

Posted: 14 Nov 2012 12:00 AM PST

Many migratory birds have changed their timing of arrival at breeding grounds in response to recent climate change. Understanding the adaptive value and the demographic consequences of these shifts are key challenges. To address these questions we extend previous models of phenological adaptation to climate change under territory competition to include feedback from population dynamics, winter survival and habitat productivity. We study effects of improved pre-breeding survival and of earlier food abundance peak. We show that phenological responses depend strongly on equilibrium population density via effects on territory competition. When density is high, improved pre-breeding survival affects selection pressures more than shifts of the resource peak. Under certain conditions, an advanced food peak can even select for later arrival due to competitive release. Improved pre-breeding survival has positive effects on population density that in many cases is stronger than negative effects of an advanced food peak. The fraction of young in the population decreases in all scenarios of change, but food peak shifts only affect population structure marginally unless population density is low. This work thus provides several missing links between phenological adaptation and demographic responses, and augments the toolbox for interpreting ongoing phenological shifts in migratory birds. We illustrate the utility of our model by explaining different patterns in demographic trends and phenological shifts in populations of Pied flycatchers (Ficedula hypoleuca) across Western Europe.

Nutrients, Vol. 4, Pages 1747-1758: Associations between Maternal Antioxidant Intakes in Pregnancy and Infant Allergic Outcomes

Posted: 14 Nov 2012 12:00 AM PST

Antioxidant intakes in pregnancy may influence fetal immune programming and the risk of allergic disease. We investigated associations between maternal intakes of β-carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, copper and zinc, and infant allergic outcomes. Antioxidant intakes of pregnant women (n = 420) assessed prospectively by a food frequency questionnaire, were examined in relation to allergic outcomes at 1 year of age (n = 300). The main relationships with allergic outcomes were seen with dietary vitamin C and copper. Specifically, higher maternal dietary vitamin C intake was associated with a reduced risk of any diagnosed infant allergic disease and wheeze. After adjustment for potential confounders the relationship with wheeze remained statistically significant. There was also an inverse linear relationship between vitamin C and food allergy. Higher dietary copper intake was associated with reduced risk of eczema, wheeze and any allergic disease. The relationship with wheeze and any allergic disease remained statistically significant in multivariate analysis, and there was also an inverse linear relationship between copper and food allergy. However, these relationships were only seen for nutrients present in food. There were no relationships between β-carotene, vitamin E or zinc and any allergic outcomes. In summary, this study suggests that maternal diet of fresh foods rich in vitamin C is associated with reduced risk of infant wheeze, and that copper intake is associated with reduced risk of several allergic outcomes.
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