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Weak clayey soils in construction are considered problematic due to their high compressibility and low bearing capacity. This study proposes an environmentally friendly replacement for conventional soil stabilizers through the use of geopolymer (GP) containing Cashew Nut Shell Ash (CNSA) to improve soil characteristics. In this study, the CNSAGP was compared with lime-stabilized soil for unconfined compressive strength (UCS), durability, and improved microstructure. The experimental outcomes showed that 9 M + CNSAGP with 4% CNSA provided a UCS of 1900 kPa, which was higher than the lime-stabilized soil (6% lime with 4% CNSA) at 1400 kPa. Durability test results revealed that the CNSAGP-treated sample had better protection against water damage with a strength loss of about 18%, while the lime-treated sample had a strength loss of about 25%. Thermal stability analysis showed that CNSAGP had lower LOI values compared to lime-stabilized samples (0.17% at 900 °C), which indicates CNSAGP’s heat resistance. Microstructure analysis revealed that CNSAGP-stabilized soil was less porous, the microstructure being denser because of reactions of aluminosilicate and pozzolanic activity. Moreover, it affected the soil’s alkalinity, making it better, and improved Atterberg limits, which affected the plasticity and workability. These findings show that CNSAGP is a long-lasting and eco-friendly means of soil stabilization with higher strength, thermal stability, and durability than traditional methods and can be used in engineering.

Abstract Objectives This study aimed to qualitatively evaluate the variations in nerve bundles between patients with normal anatomy and those with inner‐ear anomalies. Methods Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of the temporal bones of candidates for cochlear implants (CIs) enrolled at a tertiary center were retrospectively reviewed from the clinical database. The 3.0‐Tesla MRI scans were analyzed using a three‐dimensional slicer to visualize the nerve bundles in the internal auditory canal. Results A total of 49 ears were analyzed. Twenty ears exhibited normal inner ear anatomy, whereas 29 ears had various inner‐ear malformations. The cochlear nerve (CN) was visible on all 20 scans with normal inner‐ear anatomy. In addition, the CN was visualized in 18 scans with inner ear malformations. Furthermore, the CN was identified in six of the eight scans with IP type I, whereas in two scans, the CN and vestibular nerve were unclear. Three scans with a common cavity showed only two nerve bundles. Conclusion The findings of this study show that the CN can be visualized in most inner‐ear anatomical types. Even in severely malformed inner ears, the common nerve bundle that represents the cochlear and vestibular nerves can be visualized. The MRI is highly recommended for CN assessment before CI surgery. Level of Evidence Level IV.

In recent years, civil engineering has increasingly embraced communication tools for automation, with sensors playing a pivotal role, especially in structural health monitoring (SHM). These sensors enable precise data acquisition, measuring parameters like force, displacement, and temperature and transmit data for timely interventions to prevent failures. This approach reduces reliance on manual inspections, offering more accurate outcomes. This review explores various sensor technologies in SHM, such as piezoelectric, fibre optic, force, MEMS devices, GPS, LVDT, electromechanical impedance techniques, Doppler effect, and piezoceramic sensors, focusing on advancements from 2019 to 2024. A bibliometric analysis of 1468 research articles from WOS and Scopus databases shows a significant increase in publications, from 15 in 2019 to 359 in 2023 and 52 in 2024 (and still counting). This analysis identifies emerging trends and applications in smart sensor integration in civil and structural health monitoring, enhancing safety and efficiency in infrastructure management.

This paper thoroughly examines the latest developments and diverse applications of Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) in civil engineering. It provides a critical analysis of the technology’s potential to mitigate the effects of climate change. Initially, a comprehensive outline of CCUS technologies is presented, emphasising their vital function in carbon dioxide (CO2) emission capture, conversion, and sequestration. Subsequent sections provide an in-depth analysis of carbon capture technologies, utilisation processes, and storage solutions. These serve as the foundation for an architectural framework that facilitates the design and integration of efficient systems. Significant attention is given to the inventive application of CCUS in the building and construction industry. Notable examples of such applications include using carbon (C) in cement and promoting sustainable cement production. Economic analyses and financing mechanisms are reviewed to assess the commercial feasibility and scalability of CCUS projects. In addition, this review examines the technological advances and innovations that have occurred, providing insight into the potential future course of CCUS progress. A comprehensive analysis of the environmental and regulatory environments is conducted to evaluate the feasibility and compliance with the policies of CCUS technology deployment. Case studies from the real world are provided to illustrate effectiveness and practical applications. It concludes by emphasising the importance of continued research, policy support, and innovation in developing CCUS technologies as a fundamental component of sustainable civil engineering practices. A tenacious stride toward carbon neutrality is underscored.

Abstract Estimating insertion depth, cochlear duct length (CDL), and other inner ear parameters is vital to optimizing cochlear implantation outcomes. Most current formulas use only the basal turn dimensions for CDL prediction. In this study, we investigated the importance of the second turn parameters in estimating CDL. Two experienced neuro-otologists blindly used segmentation software to measure (in mm) cochlear parameters, including basal turn diameter (A), basal turn width (B), second-turn diameter (A2), second-turn width (B2), CDL, first-turn length, and second-turn length (STL). These readings were taken from 33 computed tomography (CT) images of temporal bones from anatomically normal ears. We constructed regression models using A, B, A2, and B2 values fitted to CDL, two-turn length, and five-fold cross-validation to ensure model validity. CDL, A value, and STL were longer in males than in females. The mean B2/A2 ratio was 0.91 ± 0.06. Adding A2 and B2 values improved CDL prediction accuracy to 86.11%. Therefore, we propose a new formula for more accurate CDL estimation using A, B, A2, and B2 values. In conclusion, the findings of this study revealed a notable improvement in the prediction of two-turn length (2TL), and CDL by clinically appreciable margins upon adding A2 and B2 values to the prediction formulas.

Abstract Objective To report a reliable method in obtaining optimal cochlear basal turn and cross‐section (c/s) of internal auditory canal (IAC) supporting Cochlear implantation (CI) procedure. Materials and Methods Computer tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance image (MRI) scans of potential CI candidates from 2018 to 2022 from the tertiary center were considered for analysis. Slicer software was used in three‐dimensional (3D) segmentation of inner ear and for capturing the cochlear basal turn. Results A total of 1932 head scans were made available for the analysis and out of which 1866 scans had normal anatomy (NA) inner ear. Incomplete partition (IP) type‐I was identified in 19 ears, IP type‐II in 27 ears, IP type‐III in 6 ears, cochlear hypoplasia (CH) type‐I in 6 ears, CH type‐II in 1 ear, CH type‐III in 3 ears, and CH type‐IV is 3 ears, and enlarged vestibular aqueduct syndrome in 1 ear. 3D segmented inner ear helped in successfully obtaining the cochlear basal turn and the c/s of IAC in all anatomical types. Time taken to capture the cochlear basal turn with the help of 3D segmented inner ear was

The optimal placement of a cochlear implant (CI) electrode inside the scala tympani compartment to create an effective electrode–neural interface is the base for a successful CI treatment. The characteristics of an effective electrode design include (a) electrode matching every possible variation in the inner ear size, shape, and anatomy, (b) electrically covering most of the neuronal elements, and (c) preserving intra-cochlear structures, even in non-hearing preservation surgeries. Flexible electrode arrays of various lengths are required to reach an angular insertion depth of 680° to which neuronal cell bodies are angularly distributed and to minimize the rate of electrode scalar deviation. At the time of writing this article, the current scientific evidence indicates that straight lateral wall electrode outperforms perimodiolar electrode by preventing electrode tip fold-over and scalar deviation. Most of the available literature on electrode insertion depth and hearing outcomes supports the practice of physically placing an electrode to cover both the basal and middle turns of the cochlea. This is only achievable with longer straight lateral wall electrodes as single-sized and pre-shaped perimodiolar electrodes have limitations in reaching beyond the basal turn of the cochlea and in offering consistent modiolar hugging placement in every cochlea. For malformed inner ear anatomies that lack a central modiolar trunk, the perimodiolar electrode is not an effective electrode choice. Most of the literature has failed to demonstrate superiority in hearing outcomes when comparing perimodiolar electrodes with straight lateral wall electrodes from single CI manufacturers. In summary, flexible and straight lateral wall electrode type is reported to be gentle to intra-cochlear structures and has the potential to electrically stimulate most of the neuronal elements, which are necessary in bringing full benefit of the CI device to recipients.

Abstract Objective We hypothesize that visualizing inner‐ear systematically in both cochlear view (oblique coronal plane) and in mid‐modiolar section (axial plane) and following three sequential steps simplifies, identification of inner‐ear malformation types. Methods Pre‐operative computer‐tomography (CT) scans of temporal bones of 112 ears with various inner ear malformation (IEM) types were taken for analysis. Images were analyzed using DICOM viewers, 3D slicer, and OTOPLAN®. The inner‐ear was captured in the oblique‐coronal plane for the measurement of length and width of cochlear basal turn which is also called as A‐, and B‐values respectively (Step 1). In the same plane, the angular‐turns of lateral‐wall (LW) of cochlear basal turn were measured (Step 2). As Step 3, the mid‐modiolar section of inner ear was captured in the axial plane by following the A‐value and perpendicular to cochlear view. From the mid‐modiolar section, the outer‐contour of inner ear was captured manually by following contrasting gray area between fluid filled and bony promontory and was compared to known resembling objects to identify IEM types (Step 3). Results Following reference values have emerged from our analysis: A‐, and B‐values (Step 1) on average are >8 mm and >5.5 mm respectively, in normal cochleae (NA), enlarged vestibular aqueduct syndrome (EVAS), incomplete partition (IP) type‐I and ‐II, whereas it is

Composite sections are found to be a novel technique in modern day scenario of construction. This stands tall than the ordinary and conventional type of constructions. Columns as a structural element play a vital role in structural frame. This research comments on the behavior of composite columns. The main objective of this study is to analyze the behavior of steel-encased concrete composite columns as experimentally under axial compression and the mode of failure under ultimate failure and yield point. The steel-concrete composite system combines the formability and rigidity of reinforced concrete with the ductility and strength of structural steel to meet the demand for earthquake-resistant constructions. Three specimens were chosen for this study: one was a composite column, the other two were ordinary RC columns and structural steel columns. The raw materials' natural properties are assessed. As a result, material testing for cement, fine aggregate, and coarse aggregate was completed, as well as a concrete mix design. A comparative analysis of the local and post-local buckling behavior of different composite sections has been studied and the column sections have been designed according to Eurocode 4 (ENV 1994) to determine the plastic resistance of the section. These three specimens underwent compression test and the results are tabulated and compared. The corrosion resistance and fireproof nature (resistance to fire at higher temperatures) that are transmitted into the member are related to the steel being encased within the concrete. These are the two major drawbacks of any steel construction combined with an earthquake-resistant structure. Rather than a traditional steel construction, earthquake structures benefit from this type of load handling capabilities. The portion can be used before it completely collapses if proper design factors are taken into account.

Developing cost-effective, efficient electrocatalysts for clean hydrogen production has been successfully carried out using a heteroatom doping strategy which improved the electrochemical properties of materials. Herein, we report V-doping into NiCo-based precursors to get a multicomponent Ni–Co–V oxide catalyst by the hydrothermal-calcination process. The Ni, Co, and V components are coordinated strongly in CoNiV2O8 and have an integrated morphology of nanoflower-like arrays which increased its contact with water and exposed abundant active sites also owns multi channels to enhance the carrier transportation. Among the catalysts, CoNiV2O8-0.1, CoNiV2O8-0.3, CoNiV2O8-0.5, CoNiV2O8-0.7, and bare NiCo2O4V0, CoNiV2O8-0.5 exhibits superior activity by demanding a small overpotential (OER/HER) of 271/117 mV with a Tafel slope of 85/108 mV dec–1 and being stable for ∼100 h. The activation energy was calculated for electrolysis using CoNiV2O8-0.5 as 42.72 kJ/mol. The calculated integrated area of 4.60 × 10–5 AV with the number of active (5.730 × 1016) sites of CoNiV2O8-0.5 confirmed MOOH* formation. The superaerophobicity of CoNiV2O8-0.5 was substantiated by fast gas bubble evolution from the catalyst surface. The bifunctional electrolyzer with CoNiV2O8-0.5 (1.64 V) released vigorous gas bubbles and exhibited robust durability. Using CoNiV2O8-0.5, we have efficiently produced H2 with less power consumption of 751 LH2 kW h–1 than bare NiCo2O4V0 (782 LH2 kW h–1). The heteroatom doping strategy can be employed to design multifunctional catalysts with enhanced performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, civil engineering has increasingly embraced communication tools for automation, with sensors playing a pivotal role, especially in structural health monitoring (SHM). These sensors enable precise data acquisition, measuring parameters like force, displacement, and temperature and transmit data for timely interventions to prevent failures. This approach reduces reliance on manual inspections, offering more accurate outcomes. This review explores various sensor technologies in SHM, such as piezoelectric, fibre optic, force, MEMS devices, GPS, LVDT, electromechanical impedance techniques, Doppler effect, and piezoceramic sensors, focusing on advancements from 2019 to 2024. A bibliometric analysis of 1468 research articles from WOS and Scopus databases shows a significant increase in publications, from 15 in 2019 to 359 in 2023 and 52 in 2024 (and still counting). This analysis identifies emerging trends and applications in smart sensor integration in civil and structural health monitoring, enhancing safety and efficiency in infrastructure management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Weak clayey soils in construction are considered problematic due to their high compressibility and low bearing capacity. This study proposes an environmentally friendly replacement for conventional soil stabilizers through the use of geopolymer (GP) containing Cashew Nut Shell Ash (CNSA) to improve soil characteristics. In this study, the CNSAGP was compared with lime-stabilized soil for unconfined compressive strength (UCS), durability, and improved microstructure. The experimental outcomes showed that 9 M + CNSAGP with 4% CNSA provided a UCS of 1900 kPa, which was higher than the lime-stabilized soil (6% lime with 4% CNSA) at 1400 kPa. Durability test results revealed that the CNSAGP-treated sample had better protection against water damage with a strength loss of about 18%, while the lime-treated sample had a strength loss of about 25%. Thermal stability analysis showed that CNSAGP had lower LOI values compared to lime-stabilized samples (0.17% at 900 °C), which indicates CNSAGP's heat resistance. Microstructure analysis revealed that CNSAGP-stabilized soil was less porous, the microstructure being denser because of reactions of aluminosilicate and pozzolanic activity. Moreover, it affected the soil's alkalinity, making it better, and improved Atterberg limits, which affected the plasticity and workability. These findings show that CNSAGP is a long-lasting and eco-friendly means of soil stabilization with higher strength, thermal stability, and durability than traditional methods and can be used in engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to qualitatively evaluate the variations in nerve bundles between patients with normal anatomy and those with inner‐ear anomalies. Methods: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of the temporal bones of candidates for cochlear implants (CIs) enrolled at a tertiary center were retrospectively reviewed from the clinical database. The 3.0‐Tesla MRI scans were analyzed using a three‐dimensional slicer to visualize the nerve bundles in the internal auditory canal. Results: A total of 49 ears were analyzed. Twenty ears exhibited normal inner ear anatomy, whereas 29 ears had various inner‐ear malformations. The cochlear nerve (CN) was visible on all 20 scans with normal inner‐ear anatomy. In addition, the CN was visualized in 18 scans with inner ear malformations. Furthermore, the CN was identified in six of the eight scans with IP type I, whereas in two scans, the CN and vestibular nerve were unclear. Three scans with a common cavity showed only two nerve bundles. Conclusion: The findings of this study show that the CN can be visualized in most inner‐ear anatomical types. Even in severely malformed inner ears, the common nerve bundle that represents the cochlear and vestibular nerves can be visualized. The MRI is highly recommended for CN assessment before CI surgery. Level of Evidence: Level IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper thoroughly examines the latest developments and diverse applications of Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) in civil engineering. It provides a critical analysis of the technology's potential to mitigate the effects of climate change. Initially, a comprehensive outline of CCUS technologies is presented, emphasising their vital function in carbon dioxide (CO2) emission capture, conversion, and sequestration. Subsequent sections provide an in-depth analysis of carbon capture technologies, utilisation processes, and storage solutions. These serve as the foundation for an architectural framework that facilitates the design and integration of efficient systems. Significant attention is given to the inventive application of CCUS in the building and construction industry. Notable examples of such applications include using carbon (C) in cement and promoting sustainable cement production. Economic analyses and financing mechanisms are reviewed to assess the commercial feasibility and scalability of CCUS projects. In addition, this review examines the technological advances and innovations that have occurred, providing insight into the potential future course of CCUS progress. A comprehensive analysis of the environmental and regulatory environments is conducted to evaluate the feasibility and compliance with the policies of CCUS technology deployment. Case studies from the real world are provided to illustrate effectiveness and practical applications. It concludes by emphasising the importance of continued research, policy support, and innovation in developing CCUS technologies as a fundamental component of sustainable civil engineering practices. A tenacious stride toward carbon neutrality is underscored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, solar energy has become a major contributor to the rapid adoption of renewable energy. Significant energy savings have resulted from the widespread utilization of solar energy in the industrial, residential, and commercial divisions. This review article comprises research conducted over the past 15 years (2008–2023), utilizing a comprehensive collection of 163 references. Significantly, a considerable focus is directed towards the period from 2020 to 2023, encompassing an extensive investigation into the latest developments in solar panel technology in civil engineering. The article examines the incorporation of solar panels into building designs and addresses installation-related structural considerations. In addition, the present review examines the applications of solar panels in terms of innovative infrastructure development applications of solar panels, such as photovoltaic parking lot canopies and photovoltaic noise barriers, which contribute to improved energy efficiency. It also emphasizes their role in water management systems, including water treatment plants, water pumping and irrigation systems, energy-efficient solar desalination technologies, and promoting sustainable water practices. In addition, this study examines how solar panels have been incorporated into urban planning, including smart cities and public parks, thereby transforming urban landscapes into greener alternatives. This study also examined the use of solar panels in building materials, such as façade systems and solar-powered building envelope solutions, demonstrating their versatility in the construction industry. This review explores the diverse applications of solar energy, which promotes sustainable practices in various industries. Owing to the ongoing research, solar energy holds great promise for a greener and cleaner future.

Abstract Established genetic risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) account for only a portion of AD heritability. The aim of this study was to identify novel associations between genetic variants and AD-specific brain atrophy. We conducted genome-wide association studies for brain magnetic resonance imaging measures of hippocampal volume and entorhinal cortical thickness in 2643 Koreans meeting the clinical criteria for AD (n = 209), mild cognitive impairment (n = 1449) or normal cognition (n = 985). A missense variant, rs77359862 (R274W), in the SHANK-associated RH Domain Interactor (SHARPIN) gene was associated with entorhinal cortical thickness (p = 5.0 × 10−9) and hippocampal volume (p = 5.1 × 10−12). It revealed an increased risk of developing AD in the mediation analyses. This variant was also associated with amyloid-β accumulation (p = 0.03) and measures of memory (p = 1.0 × 10−4) and executive function (p = 0.04). We also found significant association of other SHARPIN variants with hippocampal volume in the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (rs3417062, p = 4.1 × 10−6) and AddNeuroMed (rs138412600, p = 5.9 × 10−5) cohorts. Further, molecular dynamics simulations and co-immunoprecipitation indicated that the variant significantly reduced the binding of linear ubiquitination assembly complex proteins, SHPARIN and HOIL-1 Interacting Protein (HOIP), altering the downstream NF-κB signaling pathway. These findings suggest that SHARPIN plays an important role in the pathogenesis of AD.

Abstract Identification of the inner ear malformation types from radiographs is a complex process. We hypothesize that each inner ear anatomical type has a uniqueness in its appearance in radiographs. The outer contour of the inner ear was captured from the mid-modiolar section, perpendicular to the oblique-coronal plane, from which the A-value was determined from CT scans with different inner ear anatomical types. The mean A-value of normal anatomy (NA) and enlarged vestibular aqueduct syndrome (EVAS) anatomical types was greater than for Incomplete Partition (IP) type I, II, III and cochlear hypoplasia. The outer contour of the cochlear portion within the mid-modiolar section of NA and EVAS resembles the side view of Aladdin’s lamp; IP type I resembles the side-view of the Sphinx pyramid and type II a Pomeranian dog’s face. The steep spiraling cochlear turns of IP type III resemble an Auger screw tip. Drawing a line parallel to the posterior margin of internal auditory canal (IAC) in axial-view, bisecting the cavity into cochlear and vestibular portions, identifies common-cavity; whereas a cavity that falls under the straight-line leaving no cochlear portion identifies cochlear aplasia. An atlas of the outer contour of seventy-eight inner ears was created for the identification of the inner malformation types precisely.

This comprehensive review focuses on the integration of intelligent technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial intelligence (AI), and Nondestructive Testing (NDT), in the Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) field of civil engineering. The article discusses intelligent technologies in SHM for residential, commercial, industrial, historical, and special buildings, such as nuclear power plants (NPPs). With the incorporation of intelligent technologies, there have been remarkable advancements in SHM, a crucial aspect of infrastructure safety, reliability, and durability. The combination of SHM and intelligent technologies provides a cost-effective and efficient building monitoring approach, significantly contributing to energy and resource conservation. This article explores using electronic instruments, such as sensors, microcontrollers, and embedded systems, to measure displacement, force, strain, and temperature, which are crucial for detecting structural damage. Implementing intelligent technologies in SHM reduces the reliance on manual and hazardous inspection practices, simplifying and reducing the cost of building monitoring. The article highlights the social, economic, and environmental benefits of adopting intelligent technologies in SHM by presenting key findings from existing research. This review aims to increase the reader’s understanding of the significance of these technologies in enhancing the efficiency of SHM in civil engineering by illuminating their advancements and applications.

In civil engineering, carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites have emerged as a promising alternative to conventional materials. The article provides a comprehensive overview of the application of CFRP composites in various building structural elements and their characteristics and properties, such as their fatigue and corrosion resistance, stiffness and high strength, and incorporation of temperature factors. The advantages and disadvantages of CFRP composites and the current trends and prospects for CFRP composites in the construction sector are discussed. In addition, the article compares various studies on CFRP composites to shed light on their performance and potential limitations. This paper aims to provide useful information to researchers and practitioners interested in using CFRP composites in civil engineering applications. In addition, the article discusses emerging materials in CFRP, such as nanostructured carbon fibres, hybrid fibre reinforcement, and self-sensing CFRP. Additionally, the paper outlines how CFRP composites promote sustainability by increasing structural durability and longevity.

The enzyme known as SortaseA (SrtA) is widespread present in gram-positive bacteria. SrtA is responsible for anchoring a large number of surface protein virulence factors to the cell wall. This enzyme is not involved in bacterial growth and is also present on the cell membrane, which makes it more accessible for the design of inhibitors. In the case of Enterococcus faecalis (Ef), which is responsible for a wide range of nosocomial infections, SrtA from this organism promotes development of biofilm, which in turn makes bacteria resistant to antibiotics. Numerous inhibitors have been identified and characterized against Ef-SrtA; however, none have been clinically approved till now. Natural compounds and their derivatives showed inhibition against Ef-SrtA. In this work, a flavanoids-based in-house natural library was screened against Ef-SrtA to see how these molecules bind to active site of Ef-SrtA. Furthermore, the absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME) properties of the top five compounds, Abyssinones lii, Apigenin, Rutin, Fisetin and Kaemferol, were calculated, Additionally, the correlation between the structure and function of these top five compounds was analyzed using Density Functional Theory (DFT) studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Most extremophilic anaerobes possess a sulfur formation (Suf) system for Fe–S cluster biogenesis. In addition to its essential role in redox chemistry and stress responses of Fe–S cluster proteins, the Suf system may play an important role in keratin degradation by Fervidobacterium islandicum AW‐1. Comparative genomics of the order Thermotogales revealed that the feather‐degrading F. islandicum AW‐1 has a complete Suf‐like machinery (SufCBDSU) that is highly expressed in cells grown on native feathers in the absence of elemental sulfur (S0). On the other hand, F. islandicum AW‐1 exhibited a significant retardation in the Suf system‐mediated keratin degradation in the presence of S0. Detailed differential expression analysis of sulfur assimilation machineries unveiled the mechanism by which an efficient sulfur delivery from persulfurated SufS to SufU is achieved during keratinolysis under sulfur starvation. Indeed, addition of SufS–SufU to cell extracts containing keratinolytic proteases accelerated keratin decomposition in vitro under reducing conditions. Remarkably, mass spectrometric analysis of extracellular and intracellular levels of amino acids suggested that redox homeostasis within cells coupled to extracellular cysteine and cystine recycling might be a prerequisite for keratinolysis. Taken together, these results suggest that the Suf‐like machinery including the SufS–SufU complex may contribute to sulfur availability for an extracellular reducing environment as well as intracellular redox homeostasis through cysteine released from keratin hydrolysate under starvation conditions.

Abstract The A-value used in cochlear duct length (CDL) estimation does not take malformed cochleae into consideration. The objective was to determine the A-value reported in the literature, to assess the accuracy of the A-value measurement and to evaluate a novel cochlear measurement in distinguishing malformed cochlea. High resolution Computer Tomography images in the oblique coronal plane/cochlear view of 74 human temporal bones were analyzed. The A-value and novel C-value measurement were evaluated as predictors of inner ear malformation type. The proximity of the facial nerve to the basal turn was evaluated subjectively. 26 publications report on the A-value; but they do not distinguish normal vs. malformed cochleae. The A-values of the normal cochleae compared to the cochleae with cochlear hypoplasia, incomplete partition (IP) type I, -type II, and -type III were significantly different. The A-value does not predict the C-value. The C-values of the normal cochleae compared to the cochleae with IP type I and IP type III were significantly different. The proximity of the facial nerve to the basal turn did not relate to the type of malformation. The A-value is different in normal vs. malformed cochleae. The novel C-value could be used to predict malformed anatomy, although it does not distinguish all malformation types.

The performance and durability of any building component do not only depend on the quality of construction material used but is also defined by the ground condition beneath the structural foundation. Soil properties are difficult to predict and change depending on the soil profile location. Expansive soils, sulfur-rich soils, and hydrocarbon-contaminated soils are considered the most vulnerable due to their sudden shrink-swell assets, pollutants, and complex clay mineral contents. Soil untreated for engineering applications has never been recommended. Numerous geotechnical techniques and natural or man-made additives are available to improve the engineering performance of these soils. But most of those techniques are obsolete due to poor performance. To elucidate this, in recent years, the geopolymer has been introduced in the form of an alkaline activated solution as an alteration to the conservative methods of soil stabilization. It was also hoped that using geopolymer in soil stabilisation would reduce resource exploitation and pollution and improve expansive soil engineering performance. This review examined whether strengthening poorly stabilised soil can improve engineering performance while minimising environmental impacts. The objective of the review was to analyse whether they could be accomplished by accumulating different industrial precursor additives or activators with an alkaline activated solution for soil mechanical behaviour improvement.

ObjectTo investigate the long-term development of auditory and speech in patients with common cavity deformity (CCD) after cochlear implantation (CI) and its relationship to imaging characteristics.MethodsTwenty-three CCD patients and 59 age- and sex-matched CI children with normal inner ear structure were recruited. The auditory and speech development of these two groups were evaluated at 0, 1, 3, 6, 12, and 18 months after CI activation using four parent reports questionnaires [Categories of Auditory Performance (CAP), Speech Intelligibility Rating (SIR), Meaningful Auditory Integration Scale/Infant-Toddler Meaningful Auditory Integration Scale (MAIS/ITMAIS), and Meaningful Use of Speech Scale (MUSS)]. Computed tomography-based 3-dimensional reconstruction of the surgical side of 18 CCD children was performed, the volume and surface area were calculated. Correlation analysis was performed on the imaging performance and post-operative outcomes.ResultsThe percentages of MAIS/IT-MAIS scores and CAP scores at different evaluation time points are significantly different (p < 0.05). When comparing SIR results across time points, significant growth was observed in most of the comparisons. In addition, significant differences (p < 0.05) are observed among the percentages of MUSS scores at different time points except the comparison between 0 and 1 month after CI activation. Patients in the CCD group had poorer auditory and speech performances at different stages after CI compared with those in the control group. According to the reconstruction of CCD patients, the volume ranged from 12.21 to 291.96 mm3; the surface area ranged from 27.81 to 284.7 mm2. When the lumen surface area was