Deciphering Specificity Determinants for FR900359‐Derived Gqα Inhibitors Based on Computational and Structure–Activity Studies

Direct targeting of intracellular Gα subunits of G protein‐coupled receptors by chemical tools is a challenging task in current pharmacological studies and in the development of novel therapeutic approaches. In this study we analyzed novel FR900359‐based analogs from natural sources, synthetic cyclic peptides, as well as all so‐far known G_qα inhibitors in a comprehensive study to devise a strategy for the elucidation of characteristics that determine interactions with and inhibition of G_q in the specific FR/YM‐binding pocket. Using 2D NMR spectroscopy and molecular docking we identified unique features in the macrocyclic structures responsible for binding to the target protein correlating with inhibitory activity. While all novel compounds were devoid of effects on G_i and G_s proteins, no inhibitor surpassed the biological activity of FR. This raises the question of whether depsipeptides such as FR already represent valuable chemical tools for specific inhibition of G_q and, at the same time, are suitable natural lead structures for the development of novel compounds to target Gα subunits other than G_q.     

Temperature and ageing condition effects on the characterization of acrylic bone cement

This study investigates the effect of the environmental temperature and ageing condition on the characterization of acrylic bone cement. The tests were performed according to ISO 5833. The testing parameters were allowed to vary within the limits defined by the standard, in order to assess their effect on the results of the test. In certain cases the tests were also performed under conditions which the standard does not provide for but which are likely to occur clinically. This investigation showed that the cement behaviour may also change in the temperature range specified in the standard. Therefore, it is deemed appropriate to correlate the curing parameters of the bone cement to the environmental temperature, performing the test at different temperatures. In this way the effect of temperature on the duration of the phases in the cement curing could be assessed. The resultant graphical representation of the effect of temperature on the duration of the phases in cement curing has direct clinical relevance. Furthermore, this study showed that the ageing conditions of the mechanically tested specimens affected the results. Hence, it is deemed advisable to modify the ageing conditions of the specimens, fixing them closer to the in vivo conditions.     

5G mobile terminals with advanced QoS-based user-centric aggregation (AQUA) for heterogeneous wireless and mobile networks

In this paper we present an advanced QoS provisioning module with vertical multi-homing framework for future fifth generation (5G) mobile terminals with radio network aggregation capability and traffic load sharing in heterogeneous mobile and wireless environments. The proposed 5G mobile terminal framework is leading to high performance utility networks with high QoS provisioning for any given multimedia service, higher bandwidth utilization and multi-RAT capabilities. It is using vertical multi-homing and virtual QoS routing algorithms within the mobile terminal, that is able to handle simultaneously multiple radio network connections via multiple wireless and mobile network interfaces. Our 5G proposal is user-centric, targeted to always-on connectivity, maximal network utilization, maximal throughput, seamless handovers and performances improvement by using vertical multi-homing, as well as session continuity. The performance of our proposed mobile terminal framework for 5G is evaluated using simulations and analysis with multimedia traffic in heterogeneous mobile and wireless scenarios with coexistence of multiple radio access technologies, such as 3G, 4G as well as future 5G radio access networks.     

Methodology for heuristic evaluation of the accessibility of statistical charts for people with low vision and color vision deficiency

Universal Access in the Information Society - Statistical charts have an important role in conveying, clarifying and simplifying information and have a significant presence in fields such as...     

The Effect of Full Body Versus Partial Body Graphic Labelling on Beverage Packaging

Through the collection of quantitative and qualitative data, the shelf presence of full body graphic labels versus partial body graphic labels on plastic beverage bottles was examined and evaluated. Eye tracking was used to collect phenomenological data atop the stimuli, while a shopping checklist was used to collect purchase preference. A post‐experiment survey was also conducted in order to gather qualitative data regarding possible purchase influences. Data revealed that both label sizes drew an equivalent amount of visual attention; however, consumers selected partial body labels more often than full body labels, regardless of the flavour of the beverage or their age group. Paper presents a unique methodology of comparing attention between the two label styles on plastic beverage bottles. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Swiss Retirees as “Active Agers”: A Critical Look at this New Social Role

Similar to other countries in the European Union, contemporary Switzerland faces concerns about an ageing population, and the policy framework of active ageing is one response. Today’s retirees are asked to actively participate in society in ways that are recognized as social contributions. We argue, however, that the redefinition of the role of retiree to be an “active ager” rests upon gender inequalities, among others. As a result, this framework can reinforce the exploitation of elders, especially old women. To illustrate our argument, we draw on interviews conducted among Swiss retirees to demonstrate the ways that active ageing ignores that work in which they are engaged already, while it also rests upon and reshapes gender inequalities in later life.