bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Formulation of the Cultural Identity of Interior Architecture Students through the Educational Globalization
Authors: Khamis Noha , Metwalli Hassan Abdel Moniem
Published: March 2019

Educational Globalization debilitates the identities, the origins and cultural, religious, etymological, racial, and ethnic foundations— challenge a country's feeling of solidarity and cohesion. The incorporation of cultural beliefs and the ensuing generations’ patterns into the society is an essential test of globalization. Neglecting to do so; however, will have long haul social ramification. The capacity to define a character that permits agreeable development between universes will be at the very heart of accomplishing a really "worldwide soul". This research provides insights into a critical question: How are identity and agency implicated in educational processes and outcomes? Thus, the paper discusses the role of educational institutions, led by the Fine Arts and Applied Arts, with its leading role in facing the educational globalization and the dominance of foreign countries on Arab societies in the way of clothing, food and even individual behaviors. Certainly, the young designers, in the university student age, are influenced by the wave of westernization they face day and night.
The Role of Identity of an Animated Character in the Story Line
Authors: Sobeih Soraia Mohamed
Published: March 2019

The identity of an animated character means who he really is, or what are the characteristics that would never change? How the character sees himself and how others see him? It includes shape, color, race, beliefs, and choices in life.The more the storyteller gives identity to his animated character, the more it is sound and convincing.  In that sense, it touches the audiences’ hearts as they feel its pain or happiness. In other words, they are involved in the story and united with the character.As the story begins, characters and settings are presented before the audience to get an overview of the characters’ identity. Then, more elements are to show up, like the conflict, the problem that needs to be solved and the rising actions, which are series of events that lead to the high main point or the climax. It is considered as a turning point of the story after which the falling actions come.  The falling actions are events and complications that start to loosen the plot. Gradually, the solution shows up as the story ends either happily or tragically.Throughout the story line, these groups of events that form the story sometimes account for the appearance of an identity crisis that impact the character. It means that he is uncertain of his feelings about himself; he gets confused about what type of person he is or what is the true purpose of his life. It always takes making an existential that plays a big role in the story line.The identity crisis appear in Toy Story 1995 to Buzz light-year when he discovers the truth of himself; that he is a toy, not a space ranger as he thought before. This made him give up hope of returning anywhere. It took him sometime to accept the fact of himself after seeing how Woody struggles to return them both to Andy. He tries his best to save his friend and return home safely, as being dictated by the role’s vision.In Toy Story 2 1999, the identity crisis appear to Woody when Buzz strikes him with the fact that he is not a collector’s item. He is a child’s play thing, he is a toy. Then, a decision has to be made to return to Andy, and the struggles start with the Prospector.In Toy Story 3, 2010, the identity crisis appear to Woody at the end of the story. He was suffering to be away from all his toy family that will be left in the attic, so he wrote on the box to be donated and he attached himself in, with them hoping that Andy gives him a very warm goodbye and leaves him with the rest of the toys in good hands.In Finding Nemo 2003, the identity crisis for Nemo is when he chooses to touch the boat, even though it is a dangerous thing, just to prove to his father and his friends that he is brave. It led him to fall in the capture and to meet other fish.
The Spatial Identity of Historic Cairo, Part one: Typology, Geometry, and Geographic Distribution
Authors: Saad Sadek A. S.
Published: March 2019

It is fundamental to maintain the local places’ identity, character and trajectory of evolution in order to create a sustainable process of urbanization.This study introduces a quantitative inventory of urban spaces in Cairo, in the early 19th century, extracted from historic maps and indexes. Urban spaces are classified in terms of geometric typology (linear and central), geometric regularity of their footprints, sizes and geographical distribution.The extracted information highlighted the quantitative domination of linear spaces and of irregularity in space footprint. It also showed a noticeable insignificant value of central spaces. However, the insignificant value of central spaces presented spatial identity of power demonstration in historic Cairo; irregularity and linearity presented sociocultural and economic identities.
Identity through Caricature Art in Egypt
Authors: Alwaraky Mona Abdulmoniem Ahmed
Published: March 2019

Can a normal individual learn more about a country’s identity through art and rather a type as simple as caricature art? How do identity and caricature art relate to one another? Exhibited art often faces similar questions. The term ‘identity’ mainly refers to a first impression formulated in relation to a nation and is often linked to a piece of land. A complete picture of a nation’s identity cannot be simply formed as involved are components, complexities, and even contradictions. No specific concept is involved or implemented in the process but rather an integrated system of data with physical, psychological, moral, and social aspects along its lines. This system and induced spirit is embodied in the interiors of a place to give a sense of continuity and distinction. In other words, identity separates the physical from the psychological. The concept of identity encompasses a set of symbolic meanings, spiritual and cultural, that is accumulated over time to give a sense of belonging to the individuals living in a certain place. As a result, a sense of loyalty and pride is passed on to the people making them aware of their social environments and cultural rights which could be expressed through caricature art to reflect their experienced identities. Caricature art is a simplified language, usually embodying a scene from public and everyday life, used by a ‘watani’ (Patriotic) individual to express his or her identity within the framework of sarcastic comedy. The identity of the Egyptian is the product of civilized movements by Egyptians through the ages.
Fine values for urban coordination in spaces of new communities of Economic Housing
Authors: Amer Muhammad Yunus Fekry
Published: March 2019

The idea of this research was developed as a result of the new direction of urban development taking place in The Arab Republic of Egypt along with the emergence of new cities that mark a new age in Egypt’s modern history. This paper also highlights the importance of completing important national projects with the highest possible standards and least possible cost in order to satisfy the people’s needs.Egyptian artists have always excelled in the field of architecture as their creations are still present today and they all mark these architects’ interaction with the natural environment in terms of the materials used.  These characteristics are now a way to distinguish Egyptian artists because of the different analyses carried out for the modes of movement, the intersection of lines, shapes, light, colors, and consistency along with the various cultural values that contribute to the enrichment of Egyptian history.   There is a set of visual determinants and characteristics that are exclusive to every city, this, in turn, shows each city in its aesthetic form that distinguishes it from others. This is dependent on a group of environmental and design-based characteristics that are used when aesthetically designing a city. This is starting with its morphological model, which is concerned with the overall aesthetic design of the city, and ending with applying the values of the design of urban coordination of sites (Landscape), which is concerned with the design of public spaces. A good design is one that applies all the visual and aesthetic determinants needed for their formation.The concept of identity is considered one of those concepts that are hard to accurately explain, as it’s more of an ecological concept rather than a scientific one. Identity plays a leading role in the design of buildings that manage to reflect the environment which it’s in, as it is considered the main criterion for measuring the success of the community. On that basis, the identities of buildings are developed as a result of employing specific elements. The built environment therefore is an effective means through which the community can confirm its identity and distinguish itself among other communities.
Geometric Patterns in Egyptian Architecture & Interior Design
Authors: Mahmoud Heba-Talla Hamdy
Published: March 2019

This study will examine the role of geometric patterns in selected examples of Egyptian architecture, interior architecture and art. Ancient Egyptian, Coptic, and Islamic periods are the selected historical ages from Egyptian heritage due to the abundance of different works and styles with geometric pattern characteristics during their periods. In addition to the historical periods, the study will demonstrate some selected models from Egyptian contemporary architecture and arts. These models include architectural projects, traditional craft products and artistic works with geometrical characteristics. The study aims, through the extracted information, to increase the awareness about the effective role of geometric patterns as an architectural and artistic capability and to clarify the degree of freedom, flexibility and functionality as an inherent feature through demonstrating the different practices, styles and materials.
Geographical Conditions and Cultural Tradition as Determinants in Sustaining Tourism Village Program Case Study Tourism Villages in Yogyakarta
Authors: Reni Vitasurya Vincentia , Hardiman Gagoek , Ratih Sari Suzanna
Published: March 2019

Ecotourism, as a part of sustainable tourism, has been growing rapidly in Indonesia in many rural areas in Yogyakarta. This is because mass tourism changed the emphasis onto nature and cultural tourism so that rural tourism became interesting to tourists. This paper aims to study the development of rural tourism in Yogyakarta in terms of mileage, geographical conditions, period of growth and tourist attractions.  Descriptive analysis is used to identify the influence factors based on distribution of location, historical factors, and cultural and geographical conditions in tourism villages in Yogyakarta. Rural tourism in Yogyakarta has been growing since the year 2000.  The dominant attraction is related to cultural tourism based on community participation.  Research results show that geographic condition and local cultural tradition, which support the traditional daily income of the local community, became the determinant factors in sustaining the touristic village of Yogyakarta.
Buildings Orientation and its Impact on the Energy Consumption
Authors: Ashmawy Rania E. , Azmy Neveen Y.
Published: March 2019

Nowadays, many countries suffer from severe shortage of energy resources and the inability of saving it. It is necessary to develop an integrated strategy, to make buildings consume less energy and to integrate active and passive design techniques. Since the building orientation is one of the most important factors affecting energy consumption, this paper addresses the effect of building orientation on the amount of energy consumption within buildings. We employ the simulator "Energy-plus" to estimate energy consumption annually and during critical months in summer and winter. To obtain the best orientation for maximum energy saving, different orientations are tested. It is found that an air-conditioned building that has a southern facade consumes less energy. However, a western facade causes higher annual energy consumption by 26% over the southern facade. In the case of a two-facade building, the lowest energy consumption is obtained between the northern and southern orientations in Cairo, Egypt.
Kinetic Architecture; Renewable Energy
Authors: Haggag Azza Gamal
Published: March 2019

Today, architecture is one of the finest products of the creative human mind that God has given us. Its existence is a necessity which makes the aspects of human life and way of thinking balanced between endless desires and needs. This confirms the strong relationship between the architectural product and humans. This relationship is based on providing humans with their needs and it aims to find appropriate solutions to the problems facing them. Additions that can be added to the architectural product such as motion help in activating the interaction in this relationship. The movement is added to the architectural output to express a new relationship between the environment and the human who was affected by the existence of motors and its utilitarian, technical, and aesthetic issues. The research focuses on how these effects can be exploited to solve problems like energy consumption that is a main problem in the construction process.
Sustainable architectural design education: A pilot study in a 3rd year studio
Authors: Mohamed Kamal Eldin , Özkan Soofia Tahira Elias
Published: March 2019

A design studio is the heart and soul of the architectural education curricula where students learn to make repetitive design decisions that result in design strategies for resource use in order to create an environmental system that reacts to the human needs and requirements or solves existing problems. Integrating sustainability principles into the undergraduate design studio is an urgent need in order to teach young architects sustainable design principles that can stop the continued environmental degradation of the planet. This study proposed a new design studio pedagogy for integrating sustainability principles with a method to test the new pedagogy and the students’ final products. This paper presents the tests results of the pilot study and provides recommendations for the experimental design studio of the following semesters.
The Impact of Integrating Occupational Safety and Health into the Pre-Construction Phase of Projects: A Literature Review
Authors: Khodeir Laila , Salahel Dine Youhansen
Published: March 2019

Construction is a high-risk industry owning to several accidents that take place in construction sites. Fatalities and workplace injuries are a major issue. Construction managers concentrate on profitability as far as cost, quality, and time are concerned. Unless experts end up mindful of safety-related issues, development tasks can never reach their targets. The main aim of this paper is to review the literature that highlights the result of the implementation of occupational health and safety practices in construction sites. The research examines the impact of the implementation on the number of accidents in construction sites and the precautions that should be taken into consideration starting from the pre-construction stage. Previous research suggested that early introduction of occupational safety & health management systems (OHSMS) and elements within the project implementation is an important asset in decision-making. It aims toward the abatement of occupational hazards in the workplace. The paper explores through a literature review the root causes of construction accidents and factors causing risks in construction sites. The research explains OSHMS, and its effects, and how they can be integrated into the pre-construction stage in projects. The impact of the implementation of occupational health and safety practices at construction sites will be discussed as well. The study concluded that due to implementing OHSMS, there is a significant reduction in accidents. In order to improve security and health, safety measures should be included starting from the preparation of contract documents. It is recommended that the managers of top construction companies commit more to safety and health procedures. There is a need to provide funding for the regulatory body that oversees health and safety in the construction industry.
Towards Strategic Planning Implementation for Egyptian Cities
Authors: Soliman Marwa Ahmed
Published: March 2019

Strategic urban planning plays a real and significant role in the development of urban areas around the world. It helps mitigate the loss of lands and especially divert urban growth away from “agriculture lands”. It provides for improved and equal urban services and utilities as well as enhances local economics, livability and sustainability. This paper explores the importance of strategic planning and its role in sustainable development in addition to the importance of its implementation process. Case studies in Egypt are presented through a questionnaire with the local government with a group of 19 cities. We find that there are many problems associated with the implementation process, which have prevented the conversion of these plans into a reality.

The aim of this paper is to illustrate the concept of strategic planning and its process and to explain how Egypt is dealing with it. Secondly, this research aims to suggest a new implementation system that can solve the main implementation system’s problems in Egypt.

In conclusion, the paper identifies, through statistics, the perspectives of local government staff in Egypt about the preparation and implementation of the strategic plans, including proposed solutions and the opportunity of community participation.
On the Natural Frequency of Oscillations of Induction Motors
Authors: Abdel-moamen Dalia , Abdel-Rhman M. , Swief R. A. , Badr M. Abdel-Lattif
Published: March 2019

For transient stability analysis, the rotor dynamics of the induction motor have to be included. These dynamics affect the system stability when severe disturbances hit it and cause frequency deviations. For large systems, frequency deviations are small. However, it may cause loss of synchronism and break the system into smaller areas. Motor loads are sensitive to system frequency deviations. Any change in the grid frequency, changes extremely the slip. This follows by changes of the motor torque and the motor speed. The demanded active and reactive powers change as well. Natural frequencies of induction motors is considered a unique property has a great effect on its behavior during different operation conditions. This work presents the performance of the induction motors through different power systems. Based on time domain simulation models study the natural frequency of induction motors, their response in normal and abnormal operation is analyzed to illustrate the dynamics associated.
A Discussion of the Application’s Possibility of the Earth-Sheltered Building Type in Egypt: Implementation Guidelines
Authors: Hassan Heba , El Kotory Ahmed Mohamed
Published: March 2019

The Earth-sheltered building type is spreading all over the world in the last decade as an eco-friendly building’s style, and as a passive energy saving technique. Most previous researches regarding this type are discussing the energy savings’ and measuring the “heating/cooling loads” reduction extent. This research is discussing the subject from the urban point of view, and the application’s possibility for the housing projects in the Egyptian deserts. Adopting the quantitative method followed by the qualitative analysis; the research quantified the results of a questionnaire survey, and used the chi-square test to analyze the significant results, in order to be able to generalize the results to the community. Followed by some urban design considerations and applicable recommendations related to this type according to the questionnaire survey results. The practical discussion argued the application’s possibility at the housing sector in the Egyptian deserts through discussing the motives behind thinking of the application in the housing sector at the Egyptian deserts; and the application’s optimal performance constraints. The research recommends using this type of buildings for housing in the developing projects of the new communities in the Egyptian western deserts, like ”Toshka”. Moreover, in the new touristic resorts, and in the small and middle-sized projects.
Sustainable Construction by Means of Improved Material Selection Process
Authors: Gharehbaghi Koorosh , Georgy Maged
Published: March 2019

Whilst sustainable construction relates to both a building’s structure and the use of proper life cycle processes, the selection of the most appropriate material/s is deemed a considerable undertaking. Throughout a building’s lifecycle that extends from design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation, until demolition, the selection of sustainable material/s is a particularly crucial task for the development and establishment of such structures. Traditionally, there are three main materials for general construction: (1) Steel, (2) Concrete and (3) Timber. These materials not only influence the function within the structure, but also affect the operation cost and energy usage. Operation cost reduction and energy savings are typically elements of the sustainable construction sphere. However, in developing countries, there is a variety of highly critical factors, which can impact material selection as well as the long-term sustainability of the structure, including: Fire Performance, Environmental Impact, Structural Performance (strength and durability), and Functioning Capabilities. Accordingly, this paper will first compare the sustainability of these three key materials and then converse with appropriate processes for material selection. Attention will be given to the sustainable construction recompense associated with the different material selection factors. Doing so ensures a more sustainable built environment by means of an improved material selection process.
Evaluation of Buildings in Real Conditions of Use as a Sustainability Criterion
Authors: Alvarez Mario Fernando Restrepo , Vasquez-Hernandez Alejandro
Published: March 2019

The evaluation of buildings in real conditions of use, or post-occupancy evaluation, is the systematic study of buildings with the objective of determining their performance once they are inhabited; it is a process of review and identification of successes and failures in order to improve the conditions of existing buildings and to feed future designs. Nowadays, the construction industry in Colombia does not have feedback processes regarding the operation of a building. The research presented below proposes the HEPO post-occupancy assessment tool, which is oriented to the analysis of buildings in phase of use, in terms of meeting the needs of the inhabitants, the consumption of resources associated to the use, and the conservation of the qualities of the materials in time. In order to verify the effectiveness of the tool, this is validated in five collective height housing projects in the city of Medell´ın, Colombia.
Saints’ Heritage and the Egyptian Urban Forms Through History
Authors: Abdalla Yassmein Hamdy Mohamed
Published: March 2019

When examining the traditional Egyptian community since the beginning of time, it would be found that the Egyptian individual is no different from any other traditional one. His life images and perceptions have some strong collective roots, they interweave strongly with the religion. He uses religious references to formulate images and manifestations to create a sacred universe where he can inhabit and function.
The aim of this paper is to analyze vernacular/ traditional Egyptian architecture and its religious/cultural manifestations through the Egyptian heritage. It will focus on the cultural heritage of “Saints” and how they affected both traditional architecture and urban through time. This paper will cover the following:
Presenting several psychological concepts in relation to the Egyptian vernacular urban forms. It will focus on the psychological Jungian concepts of “center of the world, Axis Mundi and sacred orientations”. It will also investigate their corresponding anthropological concept of the “sacred hero” which has its manifestations in the innumerous number of the Egyptian saints / “Awliaa” through history.
Transcending the limitations of perspective by analyzing the urban product of a number of Egyptian case studies in the light of psychological and anthropological concepts to lay out certain popular principles and constraints that control their urban manifestation.
Exploring The huge legacy of Saints/ Awliaa with all their related festive ceremonies as this collective belief of saints leads to an important socio-cultural event that is held in most of Egyptian urban settlements. It is “Al-Moulid”, a religious ceremonial festival that is held to celebrate the birth of the saints. These religious ceremonies have a strong role in formulating the Egyptian cultural and religious identities.
Finally, presenting a classification for the Egyptian villages and cities on corresponding to this cultural / religious heritage and their manifestations on the Egyptian urban forms.
Proposed Vernacular-Ecotourism Guidelines as A tool to Preserve Vernacular Architecture in Nubia, Egypt.
Authors: Gabr Mostafa , Kamel Wael , Gaber Ghada Gamal El-din
Published: March 2019

Nature and culture have always offered a variety of resources for tourism in different areas. Furthermore, the fact that these assets are key for choice makers whatsoever, levels on aggravate suitable arrangements for the enhancing of ecotourism. As per the World Tourism Organization, ecotourism has been estimated to account between 10% to 15% of all international travel expenditures, it seems to be even faster than the tourism industry, as it represents 20% of the world travel market. Research assumes that despite large portions of vernacular dwells exist in Egypt, (but desired) to package vernacular architecture traditions and quantitative design knowledge to modern building designers. The aim of this study is to develop and preserve the identity of vernacular architecture in ecotourism sectors in Nubia, Egypt so that they could develop the economy and urban texture as well, and to outline the role of natural and cultural Egyptian rural communities to protect and preserve their heritage and their ecotourism resources as well. This study will assess and analyse six different international, national and local ecotourism rating manuals and certifications as well to seek the common ecotourism criteria to preserve vernacular architecture, then outline preservation vernacular-ecotourism Guidelines passed on ecotourism criteria and indicators, then validate it with efficient scale like Likert scale to be easy to use by decision makers. The research main findings based on the performance of selected vernacular-ecotourism case studies in Nubia, Egypt, were the criteria of vernacular ecotourism preservation. The research will accentuate that the Nubian building technology could be useful for redesign ecotourism resorts in rural community in Egypt. Sustainable architecture planning is a capable apparatus for making ecotourism offices that encourage aware and widening social exchanges.
Empirical groundwater exploration using Light Interference Technique
Authors: Muthekar V. V. , Kharat A. G. , Dharmadhikari N. P. , Mahajan C. S.
Published: March 2019

In fast-growing cities, the dependence on groundwater has been increased for household requirements and irrigation with the onset of the Green Revolution. This depends on the intensive use of inputs such as groundwater to boost farm production and to take care of population requirements. Private groundwater extraction for farming and drinking as well has been facilitated by policymakers in developing countries. Under exhaustive extraction of groundwater, falling groundwater tables may demand to explore precise groundwater investigation techniques. An instrument developed based on Light Interference technique (LIT) viz. NaAvmeter was proposed in the present study to explore the groundwater in less expenses and with precise measurement. This study investigated successfully a possibility of borewell location using NaAvmeter for irrigation and drinking purpose. The use of NaAvmeter exhibits encouraging results for identifying exact borewell location.
Cultural Urban Branding as an Approach Towards Sustainability
Authors: Rehan Reeman Mohammed , Abdelaal Mohammed Refaat M. , Hakim Ghina Maher , Gamal Rouba Mayyas , Baraat Ghadah M.
Published: March 2019

City branding has become one of the primary policies for achieving sustainability in many countries. In this manner, many strategies can be applied to create place and city urban branding. One of these strategies is the culture-based urban branding. Culture plays a significant role in place and city urban branding; cultural branding can be considered an essential approach for the economic, social and environmental renewal of cities.City branding has become gradually important according to its bases and activities in the urban development process in general. This paper describes how culture can be used in city branding. The research applies the significance of urban cultural branding to analyse the case study of Madinah, Saudi Arabia.
Kinetics and mechanism of Mn2+ removal from groundwater using iron–manganese co-oxide filter film
Authors: Guo Yingming , Zhang Jianmin , Chen Xi , Yang Jing , Huang Jianxiong , Huang Tinglin
Published: March 2019

To shorten the ripening period of filter sand, iron–manganese co-oxide filter film (MeOx) was formed quickly on the virgin quartz sand surface by oxidizing Mn2+ and Fe2+ from groundwater using KMnO4 continuously. After the start-up period, we found that Mn2+ could be removed efficiently by MeOx, even if the dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration in the influent was only about 1.0–1.5 mg/L. This means that the removal process of Mn2+ does not need to consume DO. The kinetic experiments for Mn2+ indicated that the adsorption and oxidation kinetics followed pseudo-first-order kinetics. The film (MeOx) was characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). All manganese adsorbed on the surface of the sand was the oxidized form, and the manganese oxide coated onto the sand effectively oxidized Mn2+ to Mn3+ or Mn4+. The binding energy of the observed photoelectron peaks of O(1s) showed the existence of [≡Mn-OH] on the surface of the film by XPS, which might be a key intermediate in the mechanism of Mn2+ oxidation. Finally, a chemical catalytic oxidation mechanism for Mn2+ removal was proposed by the analysis of the oxidation process.
Evaluation of phytotoxicity of effluents from activated sludge and constructed wetland system for wastewater reuse
Authors: Leiva Ana María , Albarrán Adrián , López Daniela , Vidal Gladys
Published: March 2019

The aim of this study was to evaluate the phytotoxicity of wastewater treated with horizontal subsurface flow (HSSF) constructed wetlands (CWs) and activated sludge (AS) system using disinfection treatment such chlorination and ultraviolet (UV) system. To assess the impact of the reuse of different effluents (HSSF-Cl, HSSF-UV, AS-Cl and AS-UV), bioassays using seeds of Raphanus sativus (R. sativus) and Triticum aestivum (T. aestivum), were performed on both Petri dishes and soil. Different treated wastewater concentrations were varied (6.25%, 12.5%, 25%, 50% and 100%) and the percentage of germination inhibition (PGI), percentage of epicotyl elongation (PEE) and germination index (GI) were determined. Positive effects (PGI and PEE <0% and GI >80%) of HSSF-Cl, HSSF-UV, AS-Cl and AS-UV effluents on germination and epicotyl elongation of R. sativus and T. aestivum were observed in Petri dishes bioassays. However, toxic effects of HSSF-Cl, HSSF-UV and AS-Cl on seeds germination and epicotyl elongation of both plant species were detected in soil samples (PGI and PEE >0% and GI <80%). Only R. sativus seeds to be irrigated with AS-UV achieved GI values above 86% for all concentrations evaluated. These results indicated that AS-UV effluent had a positive effect on seeds germination and can be recommended for treated wastewater reuse in agricultural irrigation.
Human-Derived Organ-on-a-Chip for Personalized Drug Development
Authors: Jodat Yasamin A. , Kang Min G. , Kiaee Kiavash , Kim Gyeong J. , Martinez Angel F.H. , Rosenkranz Aliza , Bae Hojae , Shin Su R.
Published: March 2019

To reduce the required capital and time investment in the development of new pharmaceutical agents,
there is an urgent need for preclinical drug testing models that are predictive of drug response in human tissues or
organs. Despite tremendous advancements and rigorous multistage screening of drug candidates involving computational
models, traditional cell culture platforms, animal models and most recently humanized animals, there is
still a large deficit in our ability to predict drug response in patient groups and overall attrition rates from phase 1
through phase 4 of clinical studies remain well above 90%. Organ-on-a-chip (OOC) platforms have proven potential
in providing tremendous flexibility and robustness in drug screening and development by employing engineering
techniques and materials. More importantly, in recent years, there is a clear upward trend in studies that
utilize human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) to develop personalized tissue or organ models. Additionally,
integrated multiple organs on the single chip with increasingly more sophisticated representation of absorption,
distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity (ADMET) process are being utilized to better understand
drug interaction mechanisms in the human body and thus showing great potential to better predict drug efficacy
and safety. In this review, we summarize these advances, highlighting studies that took the next step to clinical
trials and research areas with the utmost potential and discuss the role of the OOCs in the overall drug discovery
process at a preclinical and clinical stage, as well as outline remaining challenges.
Combined Amelioration of Ginsenoside (Rg1, Rb1, and Rg3)-enriched Korean Red Ginseng and Probiotic Lactobacillus on Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Kim Jin-Chul , Jeon Joo-Yeong , Yang Woong-suk , Kim Cheorl-Ho , Eom Dae-Woon
Published: March 2019

Background:

Red ginseng is a traditional medicine that has been used to treat numerous
metabolic and inflammatory diseases. Probiotic administration has been established to have beneficial
effects in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The purpose of this study was to determine
whether a combination of Korean red ginseng (KRG) and probiotics could synergistically reduce
NAFLD and liver inflammation compared with the effects reported for each individual product.

Method:

db/db and C57BL/6 mice were fed a normal chow diet and high-fat diet (HFD), respectively,
and were treated with KRG, probiotics, or both. Samples were examined for lipid content, kinase protein
phosphorylation, and gene expression patterns.

Results:

KRG- and probiotic-treated HFD-fed mice exhibited a reduction in body weight and a decrease
in inflammatory cytokine secretion compared with the non-treated control mice. The same
treatment was less successful in improving NAFLD parameters in the db/db mice while the combination
of both products did not enhance their therapeutic potential.

Conclusion:

The results of this study indicate that KRG and probiotics administration ameliorated
NAFLD symptoms in a mouse model of dyslipidemia by reducing weight gain and liver inflammation.
Coadministration of both products did not enhance their efficacy, and further research should be conducted
to clarify their mechanisms of action.
Significance and Mechanisms of P-glycoprotein in Central Nervous System Diseases
Authors: Huang Liangliang , Li Binbin , Li Xiang , Liu Ge , Liu Rui , Guo Jia , Xu Baohui , Li Yunman , Fang Weirong
Published: March 2019

P-glycoprotein (P-gp) is a member of ATP-Binding Cassette (ABC) transporter family. Because
of its characteristic luminal surface location, high transport potency and structural specificity, Pgp
is regarded as a selective gatekeeper of the Blood Brain Barrier (BBB) to prevent the entry of toxins
or unwanted substances into the brain. In recent years, increasing evidence has shown that P-gp is
involved in the immune inflammatory response in the Central Nervous System (CNS) disorders by
regulating microglia activation, and mediating immune cell migration. Furthermore, Glucocorticoid
Receptor (GR) may play a crucial role in P-gp-mediated microglia activation and immune cell migration
via GR-mediated mRNA decay. In this article, we will review P-gp structure, distribution, function,
regulatory mechanisms, inhibitors and effects of P-gp in the pathogenesis of several CNS diseases
and will discuss the role of P-gp in microglia activation, immune cell migration and the relationship
with cytokine secretion.
Coumarin Hybrids: Promising Scaffolds in the Treatment of Breast Cancer
Authors: Bhatia Rohit , Rawal Ravindra K.
Published: March 2019

:

Breast cancer is the most common invasive cancer in women, and the second main cause of
deaths in women, after lung cancer. There is continuous advancement in the development of therapeutic
agents against breast cancer in recent years and it is still in progress. Development of hybrid molecules
by combining different pharmacophores to obtain significant biological activity is an excellent
approach. Coupling of coumarin scaffold with other distinct motifs has led to the design of newer
compounds against breast cancer. These distinct pharmacophores possess a diverse mode of action as
well as selectivity. It has been reported in the literature that coumarin hybrids possess significant
potency against breast cancer by binding to various biological targets which are associated with
breast cancer. Due to low toxicity profile on various organ systems, coumarin hybrids have nowadays
attracted the keen attention of researchers to explore their therapeutic ability against breast
cancer. Reported coumarin hybrids include coupling with isoxazole, thiazole, monastrol, chalcone,
triazole, sulphonamide, triphenylethylene, benzimidazole, pyran, imidazole, stilbene, oestrogen,
phenylsulphonylfuroxan, etc. In the present review, a description of various coumarin hybrid molecules
has been presented along with their structural-activity relationships.
Bioactive Compounds from Seaweed with Anti-Leukemic Activity: A Mini-Review on Carotenoids and Phlorotannins
Authors: Almeida Tânia P. , Ramos Alice A. , Ferreira Joana , Azqueta Amaya , Rocha Eduardo
Published: March 2019

:

Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) represents 15-20% of all new cases of leukemia and is
characterized by an uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal myeloid cells. Currently, the first-line of
treatment involves Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs), which specifically inhibits the activity of the fusion
protein BCR-ABL. However, resistance, mainly due to mutations, can occur. In the attempt to
find more effective and less toxic therapies, several approaches are taken into consideration such as research
of new anti-leukemic drugs and “combination chemotherapy” where different drugs that act by
different mechanisms are used. Here, we reviewed the molecular mechanisms of CML, the main
mechanisms of drug resistance and current strategies to enhance the therapeutic effect of TKIs in
CML. Despite major advances in CML treatment, new, more potent anticancer drugs and with fewer
side effects are needed. Marine organisms, and particularly seaweed, have a high diversity of bioactive
compounds with some of them having anticancer activity in several in vitro and in vivo models. The
state-of-art suggests that their use during cancer treatment may improve the outcome. We reviewed
here the yet few data supporting anti-leukemic activity of some carotenoids and phlorotannins in some
leukemia models. Also, strategies to overcome drug resistance are discussed, particularly the combination
of conventional drugs with natural compounds.
Glucose Oxidase- and UVA-Induced Changes in the Expression Patterns of Seven De-sumoylation Enzymes (SENPs) Are Associated with Cataract Development
Authors: Xiang Jia-Wen , Xiao Yuan , Gan Yuwen , Chen Huimin , Liu Yunfei , Wang Ling , Nie Qian , Liu Fangyuan , Gong Xiaodong , Fu Jia-Ling , Qing Wen-Jie , Yang Lan , Xie Jie , Luo Zhongwen , Qi Ruili , Chen Zhigang , Li David Wan-Cheng
Published: March 2019

Objective:

It has been well established that sumoylation acts as an important
regulatory mechanism that controls many different cellular processes. We and others
have shown that sumoylation plays an indispensable role during mouse eye
development. Whether sumoylation is implicated in ocular pathogenesis remains to be
further studied. In the present study, we have examined the expression patterns of the
de-sumoylation enzymes (SENPs) in the in vitro cataract models induced by glucose
oxidase and UVA irradiation.

Methods:

Four-week-old C57BL/6J mice were used in our experiments. Lenses were
carefully dissected out from mouse eyes and cultured in M199 medium for 12 hours.
Transparent lenses (without surgical damage) were selected for experimentation. The
lenses were exposed to UVA for 60 min or treated with 20 mU/mL glucose oxidase (GO)
to induce cataract formation. The mRNA levels were analyzed with qRT-PCR. The
protein levels were determined with western blot analysis and quantitated with Image J.

Results:

GO treatment and UVA irradiation can induce cataract formation in lens
cultured in vitro. GO treatment significantly down-regulated the mRNA levels for SENPs
from 50% to 85%; on the other hand, expression of seven SENP proteins under GO
treatment appeared in 3 situations: upregulation for SENP1, 2 and 6; downregulation for
SENP 5 and 8; and unchanged for SENP3 and 7. UVA irradiation upregulates the
mRNAs for all seven SENPs; In contrast to the mRNA levels for 7 SENPs, the
expression levels for 6 SENPs (SENP1-3, 5-6 and 8) appeared down-regulated from
10% to 50%, and only SENP7 was slightly upregulated.

Conclusion:

Our results for the first time established the differentiation expression
patterns of 7 de-sumoylation enzymes (SENPs) under treatment by GO or UVA, which
provide preliminary data to link sumoylation to stress-induced cataractogenesis.
Small-Molecule Immuno-Oncology Therapy: Advances, Challenges and New Directions
Authors: Chen Shulun , Song Zilan , Zhang Ao
Published: March 2019

Oncology immunotherapy has gained significant advances in recent years and benefits cancer
patients with superior efficacy and superior clinical responses. Currently over ten immune checkpoint
antibodies targeting CTLA-4 and PD-1/PD-L1 have received regulatory approval worldwide and over
thousands are under active clinical trials. However, compared to the rapid advance of Monoclonal Antibody
(mAb), studies on immunotherapeutic small molecules have far lagged behind. Small molecule
immunotherapy not only can target immunosuppressive mechanisms similar to mAbs, but also can
stimulate intracellular pathways downstream of checkpoint proteins in innate or adaptive immune cells
that mAbs are unable to access. Therefore, small molecule immunotherapy can provide an alternative
treatment modality either alone or complementary to or synergistic with extracellular checkpoint mAbs
to address low clinical response and drug resistance. Fortunately, remarkable progress has achieved recently
in the pursuit of small molecule immunotherapy. This review intends to provide a timely highlight
on those clinically investigated small molecules targeting PD-1/PD-L1, IDO1, and STING. The
most advanced IDO1 inhibitor epacadostat have been aggressively progressed into multiple clinical
testings. Small molecule PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors and STING activators are still in a premature state and
their decisive application needs to wait for the ongoing clinical outcomes. Since no small molecule immunotherapy
has been approved yet, the future research should continue to focus on discovery of novel
small molecules with distinct chemo-types and higher potency, identification of biomarkers to precisely
stratify patients, as well as validation of many other immune-therapeutic targets, such as LAG3, KIRs,
TIM-3, VISTA, B7-H3, and TIGIT.
Contribution of the Microbiota to Intestinal Homeostasis and its Role in the Pathogenesis of HIV-1 Infection
Authors: Luján Jorge A. , Rugeles Maria T. , Taborda Natalia A.
Published: March 2019

During HIV infection, massive destruction of CD4+ T cells ensues, preferentially depleting the Th17 subset at the gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT), leading to a loss of mucosal integrity and an increase in cell permeability. This process favors microbial translocation between the intestinal lumen and the circulatory system, contributing to persistent immune activation and chronic inflammation characteristic of HIV infection. Thus, the gut microbiota plays an integral role in maintaining the structure and function of the mucosal barrier, a critical factor for immune homeostasis. However, in the context of HIV infection, changes in the gut microbiota have been reported and have been linked to disease progression. Here, we review evidence for the role of the gut microbiota in intestinal homeostasis, its contribution to HIV pathogenesis, as well as its use in the development of therapeutic strategies.
Synthesis of Indole and Benzimidazole Substituted Novel 16-Arylidene Steroid Derivatives
Authors: Karataş Semra , Çapan İrfan , Servi Süleyman
Published: March 2019

Novel aza-heterocyclic substituted dehydroepiandrosterone derivatives were synthesized
through a three-step reaction sequence. Some new O-alkylated 4-hydroxybenzaldehydes were synthesized
from the reaction of substituted benzaldehydes with dihalogen compounds which have different
chain lengths. 16-Arylidene steroids were synthesized from the base-catalyzed aldol condensation of
O-alkylated 4-hydroxybenzaldehydes and dehydroepiandrosterone. New indolyl and benzimidazolyl
substituted steroid derivatives as hybrid molecules were obtained from the reaction of 16-arylidene
steroids with indole or benzimidazole.
A Novel Scheme for the Synthesis of 21-Acetoxypregna-1,4,9(11)-triene- 17α,21-diol-3,20-dione from 9α-Hydroxyandrostenedione
Authors: Diep Nguyen T. , Huy Luu D.
Published: March 2019

Background:

Vietnam currently imports up to 90% of the pharmaceuticals it consumes and
100% of the steroid-based pharmaceuticals. The ability for efficient chemical synthesis of the steroids
could create commercial opportunities to address this issue. Synthesis of 21-acetoxypregna-1,4,9(11)-
triene-17α,21-diol-3,20-dione is considered a key intermediate in the scheme of steroidal drug synthesis.
Previous synthesis attempts of such steroids (corticoids) introduce a double bond at C-1(2) in the final
stage of synthesis, which delivers a poor yield and reduces the economic efficiency of the process.

Objective:

To study and develop a novel and effective method for the synthesis of 21-acetoxypregna-
1,4,9(11)-triene-17α,21-diol-3,20-dione.

Methods:

Using 9α-hydroxyandrostenedione as a substrate chemical synthesis was performed as follows:
pregnane side chain construction at C-17 (acetylene method), introduction of C-1(2) double bond
(using SeO2), epimerization of C-17 (via 17-ONO2 ester) and Stork’s iodination.

Results:

21-acetoxypregna-1,4,9(11)-triene-17α,21-diol-3,20-dione was prepared from 9α-
hydroxyandrostenedione with an improved yield compared to previous attempts.

Conclusion:

Here, 21-acetoxypregna-1,4,9(11)-triene-17α,21-diol-3,20-dione has been synthesized
from 9α-hydroxyandrostenedione based on a novel, effective and commercially feasible scheme. The
introduction of the C-1(2) double bond at an earlier stage of the synthesis has increased the economic
efficiency of the entire process. For the first time, the indirect epimerization mechanism has been clarified
along with the configuration of the C-17 stereo-center which has been confirmed using NOESY
data.