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We have investigated the magnetic, magneto-dielectric and magnetocaloric properties of the double perovskite (DP) compound Ho 2 FeCoO 6. The Néel temperature T N and the spin reorientation transition T SR have been observed near 270 and 45 K respectively. At low temperature below T SR highly nonlinear variation of the dielectric constant Δε′ (H) has been observed under application of the magnetic field. At high temperature the enhancement of Δε′ (H) has been observed due to grain boundaries. An extremely large hysteresis in Δε′ (H) in presence of magnetic field suggests the strong irreversible electrical dipole orientation along the applied field. During the increasing and decreasing the magnetic field, Δε′ (H) reached to 23% and just 1%, respectively at 300 K for the magnetic field change 3 T. The isothermal magnetic entropy change (−Δ S m) and refrigeration cooling capacity (RCP) have been reached to 13 J/kg K and 325 J/kg respectively for 7 T magnetic field below 10 K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Ethnopharmacological relevance Capsicum annum L. (CA) is used extensively as a spice and is a rich source of antioxidant vitamins. It has long been used in Indian, Native American, and Chinese traditional medicine as a carminative and an appetizer that normalizes liver function. However, its hepato-protective activity has so far not been studied. Aim of the study The present study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy of aqueous extract of CA at two different doses (125 mg/kg body weight and 250 mg/kg body weight), against ethanol induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in liver tissue. Materials and methods Adult male Wistar rats, weighing 150–200 g, were randomly grouped (n = 6) and treated with ethanol (2 g/kg bw, i.p.), CA 125 (125 mg/kg bw, i.p.), CA 250 (250 mg/kg bw, i.p.), ethanol with CA (similar doses), and control (0.5 ml normal saline, i.p.) for 30 days. Lipid peroxidation (LPO) and reduced glutathione content (GSH) in tissue homogenate, along with catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (Cu-Zn-SOD & Mn-SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione-s-transferase (GST) and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-P-D) activity were evaluated. Serum levels of alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphate (ALP), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (CHLS), high density lipoprotein (HDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL) very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), tumour necrotic factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) were also measured using ELISA kits. Histopathological evaluation of the hepatic tissue was performed by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and periodic acid-schiff (PAS) staining. TUNEL assay was performed for apoptosis detection. Results Ethanol significantly (p < 0.001) increased ALT, AST, ALP, TNF-α, IL-6, LPO, Cu-Zn-SOD, GST, GPx, TG, CHLS, LDL, VLDL levels, along with significant (p < 0.001) decrease in HDL, Mn-SOD, CAT, GSH, GR and G6PD activity. Co-administration of CA along with ethanol alleviated changes in the above parameters (p < 0.001) in a dose-dependent manner and also reduced the number of apoptotic death cells. Histo-pathological and histo-chemical studies of liver sections also ascertained the outcomes of this study. Conclusion Thus, it can be concluded that the aqueous extract of green CA can exert a protective effect against ethanol induced hepato-toxicity. The possible mechanism may be by acting as an antioxidant; preventing ethanol induced apoptosis and reducing pro-inflammatory cytokine levels. Graphical abstract fx1 Highlights • Alcohol causes hepatic damage by the way of generating oxidative stress. • Capsicum annum (CA) is a commonly used spice worldwide. • Extract of green CA was studied as a hepatoprotective agent against ethanol. • Aqueous extract of CA can ameliorate the hepato-cellular damage caused by ethanol. • CA prevents fibrosis, DNA-fragmentation and cell apoptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid design and construction of mobile cabin hospitals (MCHs) have become imperative in the COVID-19 response. However, due to unique design specifications (e.g., parallel design and model pre-revision), collaboration in emergency construction projects (ECPs) like MCHs presents data security vulnerabilities, including a lack of traceability and transparency. These hazards invariably reduce design effectiveness, leading to undesirable rework and project delay. Blockchain technology is a potential solution to address the aforementioned security issues in ECPs because it offers immutable and traceable data storage. Nevertheless, directly implementing blockchain in ECPs is impractical, for the blockchain has a complex deployment process and provides limited functions supporting BIM-based design. Therefore, this paper develops a lightweight blockchain-as-a-service (LBaaS) prototype to enhance the ECPs design efficiency by securing and automating information exchange while eliminating the difficulties of deploying and using blockchain. This paper contributes three elements: (1) Security vulnerabilities of design in ECP are identified. Taking an MCH in Hong Kong as an example, this paper investigates its design process and determines two design characteristics and associated security flaws. (2) Key technologies to support easy deployment and usage of blockchain in ECPs are developed. New technical elements, including a Multi-to-One mapping (MtOM) kit for easy blockchain registration, an integrated workflow retaining existing design practices, and smart contracts for secure interaction with blockchain, are developed to support LBaaS functionality. (3) An LBaaS prototype is validated and evaluated. The prototype is illustrated and evaluated using design examples based on actual MCH project data. Results show that the LBaaS is a feasible and secure approach for ECPs collaboration. This paper deepens the understanding of data security issues in ECPs and offers technical guidance in establishing blockchain solutions. • Identified security vulnerabilities of BIM-based collaboration in emergency construction projects (ECPs). • Exploring the mechanism of integrating ECPs design with a lightweight blockchain-as-a-service (LBaaS). • Developed key technical elements to support functionalities of an LBaaS prototype. • Validated LBaaS prototype via three design examples from an actual mobile cabin hospital project. • Results show that the LBaaS is a practical solution for improving data security and ECP design efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A high resolution 14,000 year old record of benthic foraminifera from ODP Hole 723A was produced to understand changing intensity of the NW Arabian Sea Oxygen Minimum Zone (OMZ) and its links with intermediate water circulation and Indian Monsoon Intensity. During the latest Pleistocene, the OMZ was very weak marked by the abundance of oxic species. From early to mid Holocene period (up to 6500 years BP), intense SW monsoon-related high surface productivity led to the development of an OMZ in the Arabian Sea; however, presence of oxic and suboxic species indicate that OMZ intensification was minimized by cyclic incursions of oxygen-rich intermediate waters from the South. The middle Holocene was a transitional period to intense OMZ conditions. The intensification of the OMZ could be due to replacement of oxygen-rich southern source Sub-Antarctic Mode and Antarctic Intermediate Waters (SAMW-AAIW), with oxygen poor Red Sea Water (RSW) from the north during the middle Holocene. As the intensity of the summer monsoon weakened during the late Holocene (~ 4200 years BP onwards) the Arabian Sea OMZ intensified, suggesting total cut off from the oxygenated SAMW-AAIW. Spectral analysis of Information Function (H), benthic foraminifer Bolivina spp. and oxic species of benthic foraminifera indicate that the intensity of the OMZ and deep water conditions respond closely to solar cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to optimize a method of extracting ergosterol rich concentrate (ECF) and to evaluate its significant impact on adipogenesis and associated complications in high-fat diet (HFD) induced obese mice. A comparative analysis (soxhlet and ultra sound assisted extraction) was done to obtain the highest yield of ergosterol from Agaricus bisporus. The ECF was evaluated for the biological effect on 3T3-L1 pre-adipocytes in-vitro and in male C57BL/6 mice model in-vivo. Ultra sound assisted extraction method using the solvent n -hexane resulted in highest ergosterol yield. ECF treatment significantly reduced the differentiation and lipid accumulation in pre-adipocyte cells without any cytotoxicity. In-vivo study illustrated beneficial impact on cholesterol metabolism by down regulating the hepatic gene expression of LXR-α, HMG-CoR and up-regulating LDL-R expression. Significant increase in fecal excretion of cholesterol and bile acids have also been observed among the ECF treated animals compared to high fat diet (HFD) fed mice. ECF had an anti-adipogenic activity in-vivo mainly by inhibiting the activity of PPAR-γ, C/EBP-α and SREBP-1c. The results also depicted the improvement of obesity associated insulin resistance by ECF treatment manly via decrease in plasma resistin and up-regulation in skeletal GLUT4 protein expression. Our study illustrated diverse activity of ECF in the therapeutic management of obesity associated metabolic complications mainly by reducing adipogenesis and improving glucose uptake in skeletal muscle in conjunction with improved cholesterol metabolism. [Display omitted] • The study optimized a method for preparation of a novel fraction rich in ergosterol and linoleic acid. • Treatment with the ergosterol concentrate fraction (ECF) significantly reduced in-vitro differentiation and lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 preadipocyte cells. • In-vivo study (C57BL/6 mice model) illustrated anti-adipogenic activity of ECF by down-regulating the mRNA expression of PPAR-γ, C/EBP-α and SREBP-1c in white adipose tissues. • ECF found to be beneficial on in-vivo cholesterol metabolism mainly by up-regulation of LDL-R mRNA expression with subsequent increase in fecal cholesterol and bile acid excretion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic of natural or industrial origin often occurs in water and makes it impotable. Due to its high toxicity, very sensitive detection is required. In the present study an ultra-sensitive arsenite (As3+) sensing is reported, based on aggregation-aided surface-enhanced Raman scattering (AA-SERS) of modified silver colloids. SERS intensity of mercapto-compounds attached to the colloidal silver nanoparticles surface is greatly increased in the presence of arsenic. Colloid aggregation is facilitated by cross-linking; a meshwork consisting of arsenic atoms and glutathione bridges is formed, as indicated by UV–Vis absorption spectroscopy, TEM and Raman imaging. The best 2-mercaptopyridine reporter molecule makes it possible to directly detect As3+ at concentrations as low as 0.5 ppb, which is better than achieved by the SERS technique so far. [Display omitted] • Direct AA-SERS detection of arsenic by a specialized colloid cross-linking protocol. • As3+ is detected from the increased SERS signal of a mercapto-compound. • The novel use of 2-MPY provided the lowest detection limit achieved by SERS till date. • Aggregation of colloid via a meshwork made of arsenic atoms and glutathione bridges. • The mechanism is confirmed by the TEM and Raman images of the aggregates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to prepare a novel lipophilic fraction rich in fat soluble bioactive from Agaricus bisporus and investigated its impact through in vitro and in vivo assessments since the prospective biological activities of fat soluble components from mushrooms are limited. Ergosterol concentrate fraction (ECF) preparation followed by subsequent characterization of the extract using various analytical techniques (HPLC-UV, Mass spectroscopy, NMR). Furthermore, the fraction has been evaluated for antioxidant activity, DNA protection ability, hypolipidemic properties by in vitro specific enzyme inhibition and in vivo animal model (C57BL/6). The fraction majorly contains ergosterol (504 mg/100 g dw) and linoleic acid (71.92 %). In vitro studies showed that the fraction limited free radicals induced DNA damage, exhibited significant free radical scavenging activities (IC 50 of DPPH 15.64; ABTS 8.28 mg/ml), and inhibited HMG-CoA reductase activity (IC 50 5.03 mg/ml). Further, in vivo study showed that ECF treatment significantly (p < 0.05) improved insulin sensitivity (reduced plasma glucose & insulin, increased adiponectin) and reduced inflammatory markers (CRP & TNF-α) in comparison to high fat fed mice. Furthermore, ECF has significantly reduced plasma lipid profile and accumulation of lipids in liver. This could be due to down regulation of mRNA expression of lipogenic transcription factors such as SREBP-1c and SREBP-2, and key lipogenic enzyme ACC. Moreover, ECF treatment has suppressed protein expression of FAS, induced cholesterol clearance by enhancing LDL-R protein expression. The present work for the first time evaluated the synergistic potential of ergosterol and linoleic acid to improve antioxidant defense system and ameliorate obesity associated metabolic dysfunction. [Display omitted] • A novel ergosterol concentrate fraction (ECF) prepared from Agaricus bisporus by a simple non conventional technique enriched in ergosterol and linoleic acid. • In vitro ; ECF exhibited free radical scavenging activity, limited free radical induced DNA damage and inhibited HMG-CoA reductase activity. • In-vivo; ECF improved insulin sensitivity, glucose homeostasis and increased anti inflammatory adipokine (adiponectin) in C57BL/6 mice. • ECF down regulated hepatic gene expression of transcription factors SREBP-1c, SREBP-2 and key lipogenic enzyme ACC. • ECF suppressed protein expression of FAS, induced cholesterol clearance by enhancing LDL-R protein expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Homopolymers of decyl acrylate and isooctyl acrylate and copolymers of each of them with 1-decene were synthesized and characterized by viscosity measurement, thermogravimetric and spectral analysis. Viscometric methods were used to determine the intrinsic viscosity of each of them. Pour point depressant (PPD) and viscosity index improver (VII) properties were tested with additive doped base oil in terms of pour point (PP) and viscosity index (VI), respectively. Although the decyl acrylate polymers were thermally more stable than the isooctyl acrylate polymers, the latter showed higher VI and pour point depression efficiency. VI and PP values of the additive doped base oils depend on the nature of mineral base oils as well as on the type and concentration of VI improvers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Document management systems in AEC projects manage important project documents such as schedules, RFIs, and change orders. Hence, security concerns in document management systems especially involving data integrity of documents and records may have a severe effect on a project in terms of money and the reputations of project participants. Therefore, in this research blockchain technology is leveraged to facilitate data integrity in document management for construction applications through - (1) irreversible and irrevocable approval workflow logic via smart contract technology, (2) irreversible recording of document changes via blockchain ledger technology, and (3) document version history integrity via a blockchain-based data structure. A prototype of the proposed smart contract framework was developed using Hyperledger fabric and evaluated. The scalability of the proposed framework to support document version integrity was also evaluated and discussed. A formulation based on existing literature is developed to evaluate the cost viability of the proposed framework. • A smart contract logic to facilitate integration via customizable document approval workflows is developed. • A data structure to securely record document version history is developed. • A blockchain ledger data model to securely record document lifecycle is developed. • An example scenario and prototype evaluation of the proposed framework are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Role of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) as an antitoxin of arsenic poisoning. • Formation of a stable water-soluble complex between NAC and arsenic. • Raman spectral study to find the molar ratio of NAC:As for stable complexation. • Synthesis and characterization of NAC:As::3:1 complex by Raman and SERS analyses. • DFT based calculations to elucidate the structural changes during complexation. Arsenic poisoning is a critical health hazard. Here we investigate the mechanism that enables N-Acetylcysteine (NAC), an antioxidant drug, to act as an antitoxin of arsenic poisoning. Concentration dependent Raman spectral analysis determined the precise molar ratio (3:1) at which a water-soluble complex between NAC and arsenic is formed. Stability and geometry of the complex was inferred by characterizing the synthesized complex using Raman and surface enhanced Raman spectroscopic (SERS) techniques. Density functional theory (DFT) based studies were performed to understand the nature of interaction between NAC and arsenic at molecular level, as well as to elucidate the structural changes taking place during complexation. The combined experimental and theoretical study suggests that a stable complex between NAC and arsenic is formed in three steps. This study highlights the high affinity of NAC towards arsenic and may help to identify the way NAC is expected to protect biomolecules from the toxic effect of arsenic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Existing platforms for collaborative BIM design have a centralized system architecture, which suffers cybersecurity risks of design data manipulation and denial of access, leading to a loss of data traceability, a decline in design productivity, and project delays. Blockchain is a promising technology to solve such risks by providing decentralized and immutable data storage. However, integrating blockchain with BIM faces a problem that blockchain is inherently unsuitable for storing large-sized design files like BIM models, hindering blockchain from protecting BIM data integrity. Therefore, this paper proposes a distributed common data environment (DCDE) framework for BIM-based design leveraging two distributed technologies: blockchain and Interplanetary File System (IPFS). The DCDE framework guarantees irreversible design changes storage using blockchain while secures design file storage using IPFS. A blockchain transaction data model and a smart contract are also developed within the framework to support DCDE functionalities. Lastly, framework applicability and performance are tested in an illustrative design example. Results show that: (1) DCDE is a feasible solution for secure design collaboration, and (2) DCDE latency (in millisecond-level), TPS (60 transactions per second), and storage cost (12.5 KB per day) are within an acceptable range. • A distributed common data environment (DCDE) framework is proposed using blockchain and IPFS technologies. • An original transaction data model compliant with ISO 19650 standards is developed for recording design changes. • A smart contract algorithm is developed for design transactions sharing and querying. • The proposed DCDE framework is deployed in a design example to illustrate its feasibility and performance. • Results show that the proposed DCDE is a promising solution for secure decentralized design collaboration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We have successfully prepared Bi 2 Fe 4 O 9 nanochains. • It shows antiferromagnetic transition at ~63 K and surface ferromagnetism. • An exchange bias field of ~100 Oe has been observed. • It exhibits 77% change in ferroelectric polarization at 10 kOe magnetic field. We report synthesis of self-assembled Bi 2 Fe 4 O 9 nanochains by hydrothermal method using Oleic acid as a surfactant which plays an important role in the self-assembled nanochain formation. Temperature dependent dc magnetization study suggests downward shift of the Neel temperature T N ~ 63 K for the particles of size ~ 22 nm while it is reported to be ~ 260 K in the bulk sample. The magnetic hysteresis (M−H) loops offer evidence of weak ferromagnetism across the entire temperature range 10–300 K. Exchange coupling across the interface between coexisting ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic orders gives rise to a small amount of exchange bias at low temperature. The sample also exhibits substantial magnetoelectric multiferroic coupling at room temperature with ~77% suppression of ferroelectric polarization under 10 kOe magnetic field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This study attempts to analyse paleoceanographic changes in the Central Indian Ocean (Deep Sea Drilling Project Site 237), linked to monsoon variability as well as deep-sea circulation during the Plio-Pleistocene. We used factor and cluster analyses of census data of the 34 most dominant species of benthic foraminifera that enabled us to identify five biofacies: Astrononion umbilicatulum–Uvigerina proboscidea (Au–Up), Pullenia bulloides–Bulimina striata (Pb–Bs), Globocassidulina tumida–Nuttallides umbonifera (Gt–Nu), Gyroidinoides nitidula–Cibicides wuellerstorfi (Gn–Cw) and Cassidulina carinata–Cassidulina laevigata (Cc–Cl) biofacies. Knowledge of the environmental preferences of modern deep-sea benthic foraminifera helped to interpret the results of factor and cluster analyses in combination with oxygen and carbon isotope values. The biofacies indicative of high surface productivity, resulting from a stronger South Equatorial Current (Au–Up and Pb–Bs biofacies), dominate the early Pliocene interval (5.6–4.5Ma) of global warmth. An intense Indo-Pacific ‘biogenic bloom’ and strong Oxygen Minimum Zone extended to intermediate depths (∼1000–2000m) over large parts of the Indian Ocean in the early Pliocene. Since 4.5Ma, the food supply in the Central Indian Ocean dropped and fluctuated while deep waters were corrosive (biofacies Gt–Nu, Gn–Cw). The Pleistocene interval is characterized by an intermediate flux of organic matter (Cc–Cl biofacies). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Airway hyperresponsiveness, airway eosinophilia and increased IgE levels in serum are the important characteristic features of asthma. We evaluated the potential of para-Bromophenacyl bromide (PBPB), a known phospholipase A2 inhibitor, on allergen-induced airway hyperresponsiveness in a mouse model. We sensitized and challenged mice with ovalbumin (OVA) to develop airway hyperresponsiveness as assessed by airway constriction and airway hyperreactivity (AHR) to methacholine (MCh) induced by allergen. The mice were orally treated with PBPB (0.1, 1 and 10 mg/kg) during or after OVA-sensitization and OVA-challenge to evaluate its protective or reversal effect on airway constriction and AHR to MCh. Determination of OVA-induced airway constriction and AHR to MCh were performed by measuring specific airway conductance (SGaw) using non-invasive dual-chamber whole body-plethysmography. We observed that PBPB (1 mg/kg) significantly reduced OVA-induced airway constriction and AHR to MCh (p<0.01). PBPB (1 mg/kg) treatment significantly inhibited PLA2 activity in the BAL fluid. Cytokine analysis of the BAL fluid revealed that PBPB caused an increase in interferon-γ (IFN-γ) (p<0.02) and a decrease in interleukin-4 (IL-4) (p<0.05) and interleukin-5 (IL-5) (p<0.05) levels. The OVA-specific serum IgE levels (p<0.01) and the BAL eosinophils (p<0.001) were also reduced significantly. Thus, PBPB is capable of modulating allergen induced cytokine levels and serum IgE levels, and alleviating allergen induced airway hyperresponsiveness and eosinophils in mice. These data suggest that PBPB could be useful in the development of novel agents for the treatment of allergen induced airway hyperresponsiveness. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Security of information in collaborative BIM platforms is crucial particularly for critical projects such as that of government buildings, prisons, and power plants. Inappropriate distribution and loss of sensitive information may potentially lead to physical security threats, financial loss, and loss of trust and reputation. Therefore, this paper identifies the information security requirements of collaborative BIM platforms considering the characteristics related to data security of collaborative BIM platforms through a literature review and as a result, identifies seven components of BIM security, based on which defines three levels of BIM security. Existing cybersecurity facilitating technologies such as encryption protocols, distributed database technology, and blockchain technology are reviewed to assess applicability to BIM security. This review shows that although the technologies to support BIM security are available in research and on market, they are not customized in existing collaborative BIM platforms to support BIM security. Therefore, two conceptual frameworks are proposed – (1) an encryption strategy-based framework to facilitate secure storage and distribution of BIM and (2) a blockchain-based framework to record BIM changes in a tamper-proof ledger for the non-trusting environment of construction projects. Discussions on cost and functionality are provided, which will be further extended in the future. • A comprehensive study on the requirements of BIM security is presented. • Levels of BIM security are defined with examples. • Existing and emerging cybersecurity technologies were reviewed for BIM security. • A conceptual encryption strategy for securing BIM data distribution is proposed. • A conceptual distributed blockchain-based framework for BIM change recording is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Sterol-enriched fungi extracts are potential sources of bio molecules. • Ergosterol and derivatives from fungal source have promising health beneficial effects in hyperlipidemia. • Hypocholesterolemic effect of ergosterol from edible mushrooms. • Application of the mycosterols for the development of functionalized food formulations. Cardiovascular diseases associated with obesity are alarmingly increasing in both developed and developing countries. Obesity is mainly ascribed to higher lipid accumulation in the body. There are several simple approaches to treat this condition like lifestyle modification, dietary intervention, physical activities, drug treatment etc. There are many drugs available in the market to treat hyperlipidemia condition, but those drugs have many fatal adverse effects on human health. In view of this, it is reasonable to suggest some preventive measures by functional food ingredients as human health has acclimatized to these since thousands of years. Phytosterols have been studied since decades for its hypocholesterolemic effect in human nutrition. Although the mycosterols from fungi are still under- exploited, ergosterol and derivatives from fungal source have promising health beneficial effects in obesity associated cardiovascular diseases. This review aims to summarise the investigations on mycosterol with respect to obesity in the last decade and also scope of future research on its application in functional food supplements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interim payment provisions in construction projects are susceptible to unfair practices. In construction project participants with varying financial capacities belonging to different organizations are bound by contractual relationships. Due to this type of project organizational structure, project participants do not completely trust each other which prevents the adoption of existing centralized automated frameworks for interim payment. Therefore, this paper presents a distributed blockchain-based framework that does not require to be trusted for automatically enforcing the terms and conditions related to interim payments and sharing payment records at project-level transparently and securely. A logic to automatically initiate, validate, and disburse interim payments according to general contract conditions for interim payments is formalized in this paper. A blockchain-based data model that enables selective-transparency in payment records is proposed. This data model facilitates the sharing of sensitive financial information privately between two contracting parties and non-sensitive payment-related information publicly among all project participants. The proposed blockchain-based framework is supported by a key management strategy to facilitate different security properties such as confidentiality and authenticity of data and users. Considering the non-technical nature of construction project participants, the proposed key management strategy is designed to dynamically generate cryptographic keys from publicly sharable parameters so that storage and management overheads are reduced. Security properties such as immutability, data confidentiality, user integrity, performance, and cost of deployment of the proposed blockchain framework are validated and recommendations for executing the proposed framework with a high level of security are discussed in this paper. • Automated and secure execution of interim payment via smart contracts is facilitated. • Data model for selectively-transparent recording of payments on blockchain is presented. • A blockchain-based key management strategy for data confidentiality in construction projects is presented. • Cost and security of the framework are evaluated and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrating building information modeling (BIM) with emerging blockchain technology has gained considerable attention in addressing design collaboration problems like poor data security, weak traceability, and low transparency in off-site construction. However, blockchain implementations in off-site construction design, especially with openBIM standards, currently lack standardized workflow management and methods for ensuring data completeness within the blockchain environment. To bridge these gaps, this paper presents a novel blockchain-enabled platform-as-a-service (PaaS), specifically tailored for off-site construction to enhance interoperability and collaborative design efficiency using openBIM standards. The proposed PaaS offers two significant intellectual contributions: (1) a data contract system that manages openBIM workflow standardization and (2) a data escrow system that ensures the completeness and integrity of openBIM data. The data contract system utilizes an innovative asynchronous smart contract algorithm to streamline workflow checks, while the data escrow system introduces a new blockchain-driven data-checking strategy to ensure openBIM completeness at the data level. Besides, a PaaS architecture is developed to clarify the interaction logic between these two systems. The PaaS is validated and evaluated in openBIM-based design collaborations from a real-world project, with results indicating improvements: a 38% time-saving in design issue coordination and a 32% reduction in design data delivery time. Furthermore, the platform received favorable feedback from project participants, validating the approach and confirming the PaaS as a valuable tool for enhancing design collaboration in off-site construction. • Proposed a BIM-based blockchain framework for production management utilizing openBIM standards • Developed a standardized object/process-oriented semantically enriched Asset Information Model (AIM) • Proposed a data contract system with prefab-related data structures for automatic digitalization transformation • Integrated IDS with blockchain to build a transparent and consistent information-sharing strategy • Designed a data escrow system integrating with blockchain technology for openBIM data completeness checking [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blockchain technology has gained increasing attention in the construction sector. The process of developing a blockchain-based application that fits user requirements largely depends on the selection of a suitable consensus protocol, which acts as the centerpiece of blockchain architecture. In distributed networks, consensus protocols not only help maintain data consistency among all stakeholders, but also allow users to work together and stay secure. However, limited efforts have been delivered to analyze and compare existing consensus protocols under various construction scenarios, leading to uncertainties when applying blockchain technology in the construction domain. Therefore, this paper performs a critical review extracting literatures from (1) blockchain-based applications in the construction industry, and (2) existing blockchain consensus protocols. Additionally, a mixed method that integrates qualitative and quantitative analysis is proposed to evaluate the suitability of mainstream consensus protocols for various construction-related applications. Based on the selection criteria and efficiency requirements of consensus protocols generated, a recommendation strategy is also presented for consensus protocol selection under different construction scenarios. This study contributes to the following: (1) it helps construction stakeholders to understand the consensus process in a specific construction application case, and (2) it provides lucid reference guidance in developing a robust blockchain-based system underlying an appropriate consensus protocol. • Reviewed blockchain applications in the construction industry to categorize its implementations. • Identified mainstream consensus protocols and compared their features via four dimensions. • Proposed a qualitative and quantitative analysis method for consensus evaluation. • Generated criteria and requirements for consensus selection under different construction scenarios. • Evaluated consensus suitability and proposed a recommendation strategy for blockchain-based applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micro-algal bio-fuel is the most potential alternative of fossil fuel. There is not any commercially feasible algal-fuel technology available till now. Therefore, to make algal bio-fuel commercial, cumulating cheap raw materials and compelling down streaming of product with consummate utilization of biomass ought have to be applied. Coupling utilization of waste-water and flue gasses to algal development decreases production cost as well as give waste-water treatment and reduces air pollution. Therefore, this review focuses on potential outcome of consolidating waste-water, flue gasses with micro-algae production and to develop algal bio-fuel generation technology in the future course of study. This technology will address three major problems of the world viz. Energy depletion, global warming and water pollution. Hence, with the help of in-situ single process, three main aims of algal-fuel generation, remediation of industrial waste-water and flue gases may be achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Diversity parameters of Neogene deep-sea benthic foraminifera were measured at Ocean Drilling Program (ODP) Hole 752A, southeastern Indian Ocean (water depth of 1086.3m) using Information Function (H), Equitability (E), number of species (S) and Sander''s rarefaction values. These parameters combined with population abundance of dominant benthic foraminifera (Bulimina macilenta, Nuttallides umbonifera, Cibicides wuellerstorfi, Cibicides lobatulus, Bolivina pusilla, Ehrenbergina carinata, Gavelinopsis lobatulus, Cassidulina laevigata, Globocassiulina subglobosa) reveal significant paleoceanographic changes in the southeastern Indian Ocean during the Neogene. The values of all the diversity parameters show a decrease from 25 to 23Ma and thereafter an increase with peak values at ~13.5Ma. The Late Oligocene to Earliest Miocene was an interval of more unstable conditions at Hole 752A dominated by species characteristic of low organic carbon, well-ventilated, carbonate corrosive high energy conditions. The highest values of diversity parameters coincide with the early Middle Miocene climatic optimum. All these parameters show a declining trend and gradual decrease from 13.5 to 4.5Ma coinciding with the major build up of ice sheets in the Antarctic region. Major increase in B. pusilla and E. carinata population during this time suggests high nutrient levels and low oxygen conditions at Hole 752A. This interval corresponds with the so-called “biogenic bloom” and an intense Oxygen Minimum Zone as observed throughout the Indo-Pacific region. Deep waters were warmer from 4.5 to 3Ma marked by an increase in species diversity values, coinciding with the early middle Pliocene warmth. The species diversity values abruptly decreased in the younger interval, contemporaneous with the major Northern Hemisphere glaciation. During this time species characteristics of high-energy bottom currents and relatively cold deep water were dominant. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease, the incidence of which is increasing globally. The existing therapy is inadequate and has many adverse effects. It needs a better therapeutic molecule preferably of natural origin, which has negligible or no adverse effects. In view of this, we evaluated Glycyrrhizin (GRZ), a major constituent of a plant Glycyrrhiza glabra, for its efficacy on asthmatic features in a mouse model of asthma. BALB/c mice were sensitized and challenged with ovalbumin (OVA) to develop the asthmatic features such as airway hyperresponsiveness: allergen induced airway constriction and airway hyperreactivity (AHR) to methacholine (MCh), and pulmonary inflammation. The mice were orally treated with GRZ (2.5, 5, 10 and 20 mg/kg) during or after OVA-sensitization and OVA-challenge to evaluate its protective or reversal effect, respectively on the above asthmatic features. The status of airway hyperresponsiveness was measured by monitoring specific airway conductance (SGaw) using a non-invasive method and the pulmonary inflammation was assessed by haematoxylin and eosin staining of lung sections. Several other parameters associated with asthma such as interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5 interferon-γ (IFN-γ), OVA-specific IgE, total IgG2a and cortisol were measured by ELISA. GRZ (5 mg/kg) markedly inhibited OVA-induced immediate airway constriction, AHR to MCh (p <0.01), lung inflammation, and infiltration of eosinophils in the peribronchial and perivascular areas. It prevented the reduction of IFN-γ (p <0.02), and decreased IL-4 (p <0.05), IL-5 (p <0.05) and eosinophils (p <0.0002) in the BAL fluid. Also, it reduced OVA-specific IgE levels (p <0.01) and prevented the reduction of total IgG2a (p <0.01) in serum. We have also showed that it has no effect on serum cortisol levels. Our results demonstrate that GRZ alleviates asthmatic features in mice and it could be useful towards developing a better therapeutic molecule in the future. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Earth experienced warm temperatures during the Pliocene followed by a substantial cooling that culminated in an ice age climate at the beginning of the Pleistocene. This warmth had a significant impact on global environments and ocean circulation. The collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates further amplified this climatic pattern. The southern Indian Ocean was severely impacted by these changes in ocean circulation and climatic pattern during the Plio-Pleistocene. We reconstruct paleoceanographic turnovers in the southeastern Indian Ocean during the Plio-Pleistocene using benthic foraminiferal assemblages from ODP Sites 752 and 757, combined with relative abundances of selected planktic foraminiferal species and stable isotope ratios (δ18O and δ13C) of surface-dwelling and thermocline planktic foraminifera from Site 757. The influence of southern source Antarctic Intermediate Water (AAIW) since 4.5 Ma is marked by fluctuations in productivity till the intensification of the Northern Hemisphere glaciation (NHG) at ~3 Ma. Our isotopic data provide no evidence for cooling during the 4–3 Ma interval either for upper (Gs. ruber) or lower (M. menardii) mixed-layer waters, at a time when a switch in the source of the Indonesian Throughflow may have occurred. The increased mixed-layer species abundances since 4 Ma suggest oligotrophic conditions at low-latitude Site 757 due to thick mixed-layer coinciding with the constriction of the Indonesian Gateway and intensification of the NHG. The intensification of the NHG and monsoon seasonality caused an enhanced inflow of AAIW in the southeastern Indian Ocean since ~2.5 Ma. • AAIW influenced the southeastern Indian Ocean since ~4.5 Ma onwards, which further enhanced after ~1.8 Ma. • No decrease in Sea surface temperature at Site 757 due to switch in the source of ITF between ~4 and 3 Ma. • The thick mixed-layer at Site 757 was coinciding with the constriction of ITF and intensification of the NHG. • Indian Winter Monsoon was strong during periods of global cooling since ~2.5 Ma onwards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data accountability (i.e., data integrity and traceability) concerns existing construction cost management platforms due to the risk of data manipulation in a centralized paradigm. Blockchain is a promising technology that provides immutable and traceable data storage with a decentralized architecture. However, the transparency of blockchain conflicts with the confidentiality nature of cost information. Therefore, this paper presents a novel framework based on blockchain and encryption to preserve both data accountability and confidentiality in construction cost management. The proposed new framework involves the development of a cost data model containing the required confidential cost information to facilitate partially transparent recordings on the blockchain. An access control model based on symmetric and asymmetric encryption as well as proxy re-encryption mechanisms is developed to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive cost data on the blockchain and transfer data access in dynamic construction projects (i.e., construction projects involving new members continuously). Subsequently, encryption-integrated smart contracts are developed for automatic and secure cost activities on the blockchain. The framework is validated with a desirable latency (at the millisecond level), throughput (at the hundred level), and storage cost (at the MB level) in three illustrative cost management scenarios. The results indicate that project members can have accountable and confidential cost data for dispute resolution and cost analysis, respectively, as well as efficient cost data access transfer. • A framework based on blockchain and encryption for construction cost management. • Identification of confidential cost data models for partially transparent blockchain recording. • Proxy re-encryption mechanisms for cost information access transfer on blockchain. • Encryption-integrated smart contracts to automate and secure cost activities on blockchain. • Latency in msec, TPS in hundred and storage cost in MB in 3 illustrative scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-6 levels along with erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR); neutrophil count; and the levels of ferritin, C-reactive protein (CRP), and D-dimer were significantly increased however, interferon (IFN)-γ levels were significantly reduced in patients with severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) compared with those in patients with mild and/or moderate COVID-19. • The white blood cell (WBC), lymphocyte, eosinophil, and platelet counts are significantly reduced in patients with severe COVID-19 in comparison with those in patients with mild and moderate COVID-19 symptoms. • The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), IL-6-to-lymphocyte ratio, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), and ferritin-to-ESR ratio are also significantly higher in patients with severe COVID-19 than in those with mild and/or moderate COVID-19. • The reduced level of IFN-γ is attributed to a less fatality toll in Bangladesh. The manifestation of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) severity and mortality has been associated with dysregulation of the immune response, often influenced by racial disparities and conferred by changes in hematologic and immunologic parameters. These biological and hematologic parameters as well as cytokine profiles were investigated in a cohort of 61 COVID-19-positive patients (categorized into mild, moderate, and severe groups) from Bangladesh using standard analytical methods. The data reported that the interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-6 levels were significantly increased, whereas the levels of interferon (IFN)-γ were significantly reduced in patients with severe COVID-19 (p < 0.05) compared with those in patients with mild and/or moderate COVID-19. The extent of erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR); neutrophil count; and levels of ferritin, C-reactive protein (CRP), and D-dimer (p < 0.05) were found to be significantly increased, whereas the white blood cell (WBC), lymphocyte, eosinophil, and platelet counts (p < 0.05) were observed to be significantly reduced in patients with severe COVID-19 compared with those in the patients in other 2 groups. Our study exhibited a significantly higher IL-6-to-lymphocyte ratio in patients with severe COVID-19 than in those with mild and moderate COVID-19. The calculated neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), and ferritin-to-ESR ratio were significantly increased in patients with severe COVID-19. The increase in the IL-4 and IL-6 levels along with CRP and D-dimer levels may envisage a hyperinflammatory environment and immune dysregulation, which contribute to prolonged viral persistence, leading to severe disease. However, the reduced level of IFN-γ can be attributed to a less fatality toll in Bangladesh compared with that in the rest of the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is widely adopted for design collaboration in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, while its centralized paradigm suffers the risk of data manipulation. To this end, blockchain is an emerging distributive technology that guarantees data authenticity and integrity by providing decentralized, immutable, and traceable data storage. However, directly integrating BIM with blockchain risks leaking sensitive data, since a blockchain is a transparent network insofar as shared information (including sensitive data) can be disclosed to all members without access control. Therefore, this paper proposes a confidentiality-minded framework (CMF) for blockchain-based design collaboration. The major innovations are twofold. First, an access control model is developed in the CMF to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive BIM data in a blockchain ledger. Second, new design strategies are developed in CMF to facilitate design coordination within the access-controlled blockchain network. An illustrative design example validates the feasibility and performance of the proposed CMF, which has acceptable latency and storage cost. The results also show that the sensitive BIM data are effectively kept confidential when project members collaborate within the CMF. • Proposed an access control model to protect sensitive BIM data in the blockchain ledger. • Developed BIM component-based workflows for design coordination in an access-controlled blockchain network. • Developed a BIM Merkle tree (BMT) data model and BMT algorithms for efficient versioning of BIM components. • Validated the feasibility and performance of CMF through an illustrative example. • Results show that the CMF can protect BIM confidentiality in the blockchain-based design collaboration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past decade, the global proliferation of cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (CyanoHABs) have presented a major risk to the public and wildlife, and ecosystem and economic services provided by inland water resources. As a consequence, water resources, environmental, and healthcare agencies are in need of early information about the development of these blooms to mitigate or minimize their impact. Results from various components of a novel multi-cloud cyber-infrastructure referred to as "CyanoTRACKER" for initial detection and continuous monitoring of spatio-temporal growth of CyanoHABs is highlighted in this study. The novelty of the CyanoTRACKER framework is the collection and integration of combined community reports (social cloud), remote sensing data (sensor cloud) and digital image analytics (computation cloud) to detect and differentiate between regular algal blooms and CyanoHABs. Individual components of CyanoTRACKER include a reporting website, mobile application (App), remotely deployable solar powered automated hyperspectral sensor (CyanoSense), and a cloud-based satellite data processing and integration tool. All components of CyanoTRACKER provided important data related to CyanoHABs assessments for regional and global water bodies. Reports and data received via social cloud including the mobile App, Twitter, Facebook, and CyanoTRACKER website, helped in identifying the geographic locations of CyanoHABs affected water bodies. A significant increase (124.92%) in tweet numbers related to CyanoHABs was observed between 2011 (total relevant tweets = 2925) and 2015 (total relevant tweets = 6579) that reflected an increasing trend of the harmful phenomena across the globe as well as an increased awareness about CyanoHABs among Twitter users. The CyanoHABs affected water bodies extracted via the social cloud were categorized, and smaller water bodies were selected for the deployment of CyanoSense, and satellite data analysis was performed for larger water bodies. CyanoSense was able to differentiate between ordinary algae and CyanoHABs through the use of their characteristic absorption feature at 620 nm. The results and products from this infrastructure can be rapidly disseminated via the CyanoTRACKER website, social media, and direct communication with appropriate management agencies for issuing warnings and alerting lake managers, stakeholders and ordinary citizens to the dangers posed by these environmentally harmful phenomena. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]