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This study investigates various processing approaches, interface characteristics, and mechanical properties of an aluminum (Al) matrix composite reinforced with additively manufactured (AM) 316L stainless-steel (SS) lattice. The AM-316L-SS lattice, boasting a 30 % infill density, was fabricated using the laser powder bed fusion technique. The Al-matrix was integrated with the AM-316L-SS reinforcement through experimentation involving pre-stirring of the molten Al under pressurized and unpressurized die-casting conditions. A well-bonded interface, with cohesive regions, was obtained in the pre-stirred structures. In contrast, regions of decohesion were displayed in cast structures without pre-stirring, leading to the presence of pores and the manifestation of imperfect bond interfaces. Compression tests conducted on the sound composite demonstrated enhanced mechanical properties, with a compressive strength of approximately 163 MPa, significantly higher than that of the pure Al-matrix (approximately 80 MPa). Localized interface cracking was initiated by stress gradients and plastic deformation, leading to microcrack propagation into the Al-matrix.

Annual seasonality of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in Washington, USA, has been limited primarily to late autumn and winter (1). However, an RSV outbreak was not detected during the 2020-21 [...]

Background:. Emerging as an adjunct to breast-conserving surgery, oncoplastic breast surgery seeks to improve the cosmetic and functional outcomes for breast cancer surgery. The objective was to assess the potential advantages of using the latissimus dorsi (LD) flap, in comparison with local tissue rearrangement, in terms of aesthetic results and postoperative problems. Methods:. This study compared the outcomes of patients with a malignant tumor removed from the upper outer quadrant of the breast using a comparative nonrandomized control approach. Participants were split into two groups: reconstruction using local tissue rearrangement was performed on 20 patients (group A), and a pedicled LD flap was used to treat the same number of patients (group B). All patients were examined in the clinics’ outpatient setting. Every 3 months, the medical oncology team would do a thorough clinical assessment. Results:. Better aesthetic outcomes were significantly higher among patients with an LD flap. The LD flap was able to maintain breast shape in 90%, breast volume in 85%, and the nipple-areola complex direction in 90% of patients. Surgeons’ evaluation of both techniques reported significantly higher satisfaction for LD flap than local tissue replacement. Patient satisfaction was significantly higher among patients with an LD flap. With regard to the postoperative complications, there were no significant differences between either group. Conclusions:. Oncoplastic breast surgery with reconstruction using the pedicled LD flap provides maintenance of the shape of female breasts with better aesthetic outcomes and patient and surgeon satisfaction than reconstruction using local tissue rearrangement, with a comparable complication rate.

A historic urban district is a quarter built many years ago and contains valuable memories over a limited area with narrow streets for pedestrians, primitive transportation, and outdoor activities. Over the years, many districts have been growing randomly, and motorized transport has enlarged significantly and created severe problems. Improving the situation needs heritage protection and sustainable mobility development on its streets. The desired mobility focuses on managing travel demands, accessibility for all street users, and enhancing the environment. This research presents a proposed approach with an application framework for sustainable mobility development on historic roads according to its current conditions at the strategic level. It includes sequential phases to define desired goals, formulate and evaluate planning scenarios containing different action measures based on sustainability indicators and application of micro-simulation. In case of inappropriate evaluation results, approach phases allow the modification and re-evaluation of additional measures until deciding an acceptable solution. The application is limited to Ras El-Teen Palace Street, prominent in the ancient El Gomrok district, Alexandria and restricted to a Do-Nothing solution and a planning scenario. The application proves the approach's practicality and feasibility by improving traffic behaviour. Furthermore, the planning approach can indicate technical recommendations for further improvement.