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Limestone calcined clay cement (LC3) is identified as an auspicious solution to the exhaustion of natural resources intended for use as construction materials. This is seen as a means of reducing both the carbon dioxide emissions and the environmental effects of energy-intensive cement manufacture. Three novel types of LC3 cements and mortar varieties were synthesized, characterized, and their potential use was assessed. Microstructural investigations were performed using experimental techniques such as XRD, XRF, FTIR, SEM, setting time, and thermal analysis. Physical and mechanical properties were also evaluated at 2, 7, and 28 d. The results showed that hydrated phases alongside the original ones were encountered. SEM micrographs exhibited some features belonging to the already detected phases. The mechanical strength of the manufactured LC3 samples (up to 35 MPa) was quite promising compared to that of commercial cements. From the above, it could be stated that the used materials might be a good substitute for clinker in the manufacture of LC3 cements. LC3-50 and LC3-52 may both be used in favor of CPJ35 and CPJ45, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To develop a practical alternative to classic cement materials, alkali-activated materials were manufactured from industrial wastes (fly and bottom ash). Microstructural behavior of these blends was investigated through X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, thermal analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and surface response methodology. Natrolite, phillipsite, and calcium aluminum silicate hydrate and sodium carbonate newly formed after alkali activation. Empirical ternary diagrams as well as modeling equations were united to predict the physico-mechanical evolution of the prepared specimens. The used model described well the evolution of the studied properties against the processing factors; temperature, NaOH concentration and curing time. The weight of the effect of each parameter was estimated and factor to factor interaction was considered. NaOH concentrations and ageing temperature had a considerable positive effect on density and mechanical strength, respectively. Water absorption and electrical conductivity were influenced differently by the factors, the electrical conductivity increases as the NaOH concentrations increase, and time and temperature decrease. The response surfaces and their results were correlated with the microstructure of the hardened samples. Overall, alkali activated binders with good engineering properties could be synthesized in the considered conditions. The optimal alkali activation conditions were ∼12 M and the corresponding final properties were as follows: 50 MPa for the compressive strength and 20% for water absorption while density was recorded at a 1.75 g/cm3 value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epidermoid and dermoid cysts are benign, usually slow-growing lesions classified as ectodermal inclusion cysts. These cysts form when epithelial remnants become trapped during the closure of the first and second branchial arch; however, a few cases are related to trauma or are iatrogenic. Diagnosis is made based on the cyst development history and imaging such as ultrasound. Surgical excision is the treatment of choice to avoid complications. We report a case report of a dermoid cyst in the pre-sternal region in a 17-year-old male patient., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Mhand et al.)

Lipomas are common, well-circumscribed neoplasms of mesodermal origin, characterized by being slow, painless growths that are mostly subcutaneous, not invasive, and not recurring after surgery. Lipomas are the most prevalent kind of mesenchymal tumor, yet giant lipomas are rare in the cervical region and the occipital area. We report a 46-year-old female with diabetes insipidus was referred with a giant occipital cervical tumor, which she had noticed for 17 years and which had rarely given her any complaints of compressive symptoms. The clinical assessment indicated a firm, painless, and mobile swelling, which demonstrated features of venous ectasia, and there was no external ulceration. Ultrasonography and MRI of the neck revealed a large, subcutaneous fatty tumor with distinctive echographic features on both modalities, including hyperintense signals on T1 and T2 and no ring enhancement after Gadolinium injection. Due to the mass being smooth, round, and not attached to any structure, the patient underwent surgical enucleation under general anesthesia, resulting in full recovery without complications. Pathology revealed a benign adipose tissue tumor without liposarcoma, and there were no difficulties observed during follow-up for two years., Competing Interests: Human subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve human participants or tissue. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Mhand et al.)