bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Latitudinal biodiversity gradients of rocky intertidal assemblages: Spatial scales and complex associations with environmental factors
Authors: Hadiyanto Hadiyanto , Prince Jane , Hovey Renae K.
Published: January 2024

Latitudinal biodiversity gradients vary across taxonomic groups and spatial scales, and various environmental factors have been associated with those patterns. However, it remains unknown whether taxonomic groups with strong ecological associations have similar or different latitudinal patterns. Macroalgae are foundation assemblages on rocky intertidal shores and are often inhabited by invertebrates, predominantly polychaetes. This study analysed latitudinal patterns of macroalgae and their associated polychaetes at different spatial scales and determined how environmental factors influenced those patterns. Macroalgae and polychaetes were collected from transects within 38 rocky intertidal shores of Western Australia at 14 latitudes between 18° S and 34° S. Latitudinal gradients in species richness, diversity (Simpson's diversity index) and abundance were evaluated at transect, site and latitudinal scales. Relationships between environmental factors and rocky intertidal assemblages were analysed using piecewise structural equation modelling based on direct, indirect and complex models. Macroalgae showed increases in species richness, diversity and abundance at transect and site scales towards high latitudes, but species richness and diversity patterns were unclear at the latitudinal scale where transect and site data were pooled. In contrast, polychaete diversity decreased towards high latitudes, although this pattern was unclear at the transect scale. Polychaete richness and abundance tended to follow parabolic patterns that peaked at 27° S. Relationships between environmental factors and rocky intertidal assemblages were best described by a complex model, with significant relationships more often at transect and site scales. Sea surface temperatures showed the strongest relationship with macroalgal and polychaete distributions.
Incidence of invasive fungal diseases in inflammatory bowel disease patients: A nationwide study in South Korea
Authors: Na Ji Eun , Jung Sung Hoon , Choi Arum , Kim Sukil , Kim Tae‐Oh
Published: January 2024

Background

Limited reports exist regarding invasive fungal diseases (IFDs) in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients.

Objectives

This study aims to investigate the incidence and risk factors of IFDs, specifically invasive candidiasis, aspergillosis and pneumocystosis, in IBD patients in South Korea using nationwide data.

Patients/Methods

A population‐based retrospective cohort of 42,913 IBD patients between January 2010 and December 2018 was evaluated using the Health Insurance Review and Assessment database. The primary outcome was the incidence of IFDs, including invasive candidiasis, aspergillosis and pneumocystosis, while the secondary outcome involved analysing the risk factors associated with each specific infection.

Results

The study included a total of 42,913 IBD patients, with 29,909 (69.7%) diagnosed with ulcerative colitis (UC) and 13,004 (30.3%) diagnosed with Crohn's disease (CD). IFDs occurred in 166 IBD patients (0.4%), with 93 cases in UC patients and 73 cases in CD patients. The incidence rates of invasive candidiasis, aspergillosis and pneumocystosis in IBD patients were 0.71 per 1000 person‐years (PYs), 0.15 per 1000 PYs and 0.12 per 1000 PYs, respectively. The cumulative incidence of invasive candidiasis (adjusted p‐value <.001) and Pneumocystosis (adjusted p‐value = .012) was found to be higher in CD patients than in UC patients. Each IFD had different risk factors, including IBD subtypes, age at diagnosis, anti‐tumour necrotic factor agents or the Charlson comorbidity index.

Conclusion

Based on nationwide data in South Korea, this study shows that IFDs occur consistently in patients with IBD, albeit with a low frequency.
Transmission of high arterial pressure into renal microvessels during venous‐clamping augments ischaemia/reperfusion‐induced acute kidney injury in anaesthetized rats
Authors: Maftoon‐Azad Mohammad Javad , Nazari Somayeh , Keshavarz Somayeh , Owji Seyed Mohammad , Moosavi Seyed Mostafa Shid
Published: January 2024

Aim

In two recent studies, we observed that a 30‐min renal vein clamping caused formation of interstitial haemorrhagic congestion in ischaemic and ischaemic/reperfused kidney along with the development of severer acute kidney injury (AKI) than renal artery or pedicle clamping. It was suggested that the transmission of high arterial pressure into renal microvessels during vein occlusion probably causes the occurrence of interstitial haemorrhagic congestion that augments AKI. The present investigation aimed to evaluate this suggestion by reducing renal perfusion pressure (RPP) during renal venous occlusion.

Methods

Anaesthetized male Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into three groups (n = 8), which underwent a 2‐h reperfusion period following 30‐min bilateral renal venous clamping along with reduced RPP (VIR‐rRPP group) or without reduced RPP (VIR group) and an equivalent period after sham‐operation (Sham group).

Results

The VIR‐rRPP group compared with VIR group had lower levels of kidney malondialdehyde and tissue damages as epithelial injuries of proximal tubule and thick ascending limb, vascular congestion, intratubular cast and oedema, along with the less reductions in renal blood flow, creatinine clearance, Na+‐reabsorption, K+ and urea excretion, urine osmolality and free‐water reabsorption. Importantly, the formation of intensive interstitial haemorrhagic congestion in the VIR group was not observed in the VIR‐rRPP group.

Conclusion

These results indicate that the transmission of high arterial pressure into renal microvessels during venous occlusion leads to rupturing of their walls and the formation of interstitial haemorrhagic congestion, which has an augmenting impact on ischaemia/reperfusion‐induced renal structural damages and haemodynamic, excretory and urine‐concentrating dysfunctions.
The management of osteoradionecrosis in palliative head and neck cancer patients
Authors: AlHakim Reem , Jawad Nadeen , Sproat Chris , Patel Vinod
Published: January 2024

Objective

Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) is a well‐recognised complication of radiotherapy in the cured head and neck cancer (HNC) patients. More recently with improved survivorship in the palliative HNC group, there is an increasing population that is also burdened by radiation late effects such as ORN. Currently, there is no proven approach to manage ORN in this cohort of patients. This study reports the management and outcome of a case series of palliative care HNC patients with established ORN.

Materials and Methods

The clinical records of 20 palliative care HNC patients with an established ORN diagnosis were identified and reviewed retrospectively.

Results

All 20 patients were managed via a conservative approach. Medical management via PENTO (n = 4, 20%) or PENTOCLO (n = 8, 40%) was the most popular approach. All but two patients had ORN that healed (4/20, 20%), or was stabilised (14/20, 70%). The two patients with progressive ORN had a tumour diagnosis adjacent to the necrotic site.

Conclusion

Medical management via PENTO/CLO provided promising results in this small cohort of palliative patients with ORN. The overall combined healing and stability of ORN status are comparable to those in the literature, though most cases are stabilised as opposed to cured.
Increased prevalence of metabolic syndrome and non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease in children with atopic dermatitis: A case–control study from northern India
Authors: Reddy Pratheeksha , Mahajan Rahul , Mehta Hitaishi , De Dipankar , Bhatia Anmol , Kumar Rakesh , Handa Sanjeev
Published: January 2024

Background/Objectives

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that affects children worldwide, with potential associations to metabolic syndrome (MetS) and non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Limited research exists on the interplay between AD, MetS, and NAFLD in the pediatric population. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and potential relationships among AD, MetS, and NAFLD in children.

Methods

A case–control study design was employed, recruiting 50 children with AD (median age: 9.5 years) and 50 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls (median age: 11.5 years, p = .051). Data on demographic characteristics, clinical features, disease severity, treatment history, anthropometric measurements, and laboratory evaluations were collected. MetS and NAFLD were diagnosed based on established criteria.

Results

The prevalence of MetS was significantly higher in children with AD compared with controls (24% vs. 2%, p = .002). Significant differences for systolic blood pressure (p < .001), diastolic blood pressure (p = .012), and waist circumference (p = .040) were observed between AD patients and controls. Children with AD had higher triglyceride levels (p = .005). NAFLD was exclusively seen in moderate to severe AD cases (6% vs. 0%, p = .242). AD severity showed associations with increased body mass index (p = .020).

Conclusion

This study highlights the increased prevalence of MetS and the potential association with NAFLD in children with AD. The findings suggest that AD may contribute to the development of metabolic abnormalities at an early age. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and explore preventive strategies for these interconnected conditions.
Evolutionary studies of the basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH) IVc gene family in plants and the role of AtILR3 in Arabidopsis response to ABA stress
Authors: Jiang Min , Niu Yuqian , Wen Guosong , Zhao Changling , Gao Qing , Li Guiqiong
Published: January 2024

The basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH) IVc transcription factors (TFs) play central roles in controlling iron (Fe) homeostasis and biotic stress responses. However, their evolutions and functions in other abiotic stresses are poorly understood. In this study, the IAA‐LEUCINE RESISTANT3 (ILR3) homologs were traced roughly back to before the early origin of land plants and divided into six main clades (Clade A‐F). Further analysis found that the ILR3 orthologs were angiosperm‐specific, suffering from motif‐acquisition events and loose purifying selection. Synteny analysis displayed that the whole genome duplications (WGDs) contributed to the establishment of the IRON DEFICIENCY TOLERANT1 (IDT1, also called bHLH34)/bHLH104 lineage prior to the divergence of angiosperms. Sequence analysis revealed that the ILR3 homologs had some novel and conserved motifs except bHLH and leucine zipper (ZIP) domains. Particularly, Arabidopsis thaliana ILR3 (AtILR3) was a nuclear protein and greatly activated by ABA and CdCl2 stresses. Simultaneously, the molecular and genetic analyses suggested that the AtILR3 acted as a positive regulator in the ABA stress response through enhancing the ability of reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐scavenging, such as the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT). The inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) analyses exhibited that the AtILR3 affected the absorption of nutrient elements, especially iron elements, under ABA stress. Collectively, our findings could shed deep light on the origin and evolution of the plant ILR3s, as well as the functions of the AtILR3 under ABA stress.
Genetic Interactions Between BEN1‐ and Cytochrome P450‐Mediated Brassinosteroid Inactivation
Authors: Tayengwa Reuben , Westenskow Shelby R. , Peng Hao , Hulbert Anna K. , Neff Michael M.
Published: January 2024

Brassinosteroids (BRs) are essential plant growth‐promoting hormones involved in many processes throughout plant development, from seed germination to flowering time. Since BRs do not undergo long‐distance transport, cell‐ and tissue‐specific regulation of hormone levels involves both biosynthesis and inactivation. To date, ten BR‐inactivating enzymes, with at least five distinct biochemical activities, have been experimentally identified in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana. Epigenetic interactions between T‐DNA insertion alleles and genetic linkage have hindered analysis of higher‐order null mutants in these genes. A previous study demonstrated that the bas1‐2 sob7‐1 ben1‐1 triple‐null mutant could not be characterized due to epigenetic interactions between the exonic T‐DNA insertions in bas1‐2 and sob7‐1, causing the intronic T‐DNA insertion of ben1‐1 to revert to a partial loss‐of‐function allele. We used CRISPR‐Cas9 genome editing to avoid this problem and generated the bas1‐2 sob7‐1 ben1‐3 triple‐null mutant. This triple‐null mutant resulted in an additive seedling long‐hypocotyl phenotype. We also uncovered a role for BEN1‐mediated BR‐inactivation in seedling cotyledon petiole elongation that was not observed in the single ben1‐2 null mutant but only in the absence of both BAS1 and SOB7. In addition, genetic analysis demonstrated that BEN1 does not contribute to the early‐flowering phenotype, which BAS1 and SOB7 redundantly regulate. Our results show that BAS1, BEN1, and SOB7 have overlapping and independent roles based on their differential spatiotemporal tissue expression patterns
Inversion formula for an integral geometry problem over surfaces of revolution
Authors: Ustaoglu Zekeriya
Published: January 2024

An integral geometry problem is considered on a family of ‐dimensional surfaces of revolution whose vertices lie on a hyperplane and directions of symmetry axes are fixed and orthogonal to this plane, in . More precisely, the reconstruction of a function , , , from the integrals of the form extended over a chosen side of all surfaces of revolution of a given family is investigated. Unlike the usual Radon transform, the integrals considered here are not taken with respect to the surface area element. A Fourier slice identity and a backprojection‐type inversion formula are obtained with a method based on the Fourier and Hankel transforms. The reconstruction procedure and some analytical and numerical implementations of the obtained inversion formulas in the cases of and are provided.
Performance evaluation of the Sysmex XN‐1000V in side‐by‐side comparison with the Siemens ADVIA 120 and manual methods for healthy CD Sprague–Dawley rats and CD‐1 mice
Authors: Schroeder Jill M. , Lee Hsiu‐Yung C. , Schultze Albert E.
Published: January 2024

Background

The Sysmex XN‐1000V automated hematology analyzer with multispecies software was released in June 2017 for use in research laboratories. Laser light, impedance, fluorescent staining, and fluorescent flow cytometry are used to analyze whole blood for CBC, reticulocyte counts, and WBC counts, including a 5‐part differential leukocyte analysis.

Objectives

A side‐by‐side comparison of the Sysmex XN‐1000V with the Siemens ADVIA 120 in analyzing blood from healthy mice and rats will provide insight into the performance of the new analyzer and its capabilities for use in drug development studies. Method correlation analyses on normal mouse and rat hematology data collected with both analyzers and manual reference methods will help determine the reliability of the data produced using the Sysmex XN‐1000V analyzer.

Methods

Whole blood samples collected in K2EDTA from healthy CD‐1 mice and CD Sprague–Dawley rats were analyzed in parallel with the XN‐1000V and ADVIA 120 analyzers. Male and female mice, approximately 6–9 weeks old, and male and female rats, approximately 7–9 weeks old, were included in this study. Manual reference methods for WBC differential leukocyte analysis and packed cell volume (PCV) measurements were also performed. EP Evaluator version 11.2 (Data Innovations LLC, South Burlington, VT, USA) was used for method comparison statistical analysis.

Results

Most hematologic parameters for naïve mice and rats achieved correlation in the fair to excellent range, with the majority showing very good to excellent correlation with low biases (<11.0%) for cohorts analyzed separately and when cohort data were combined.

Conclusions

The Sysmex XN‐1000V Hematology Analyzer provided comparable results to those obtained from the Siemens ADVIA 120. We found the Sysmex XN‐1000V Hematology Analyzer to be acceptable for use in drug development studies for rats and mice.
The importance of quality control validation and relationships with total error quality goals and bias in the interpretation of laboratory results
Authors: Freeman Kathleen , Klenner‐Gastreich Stefanie , Korchia Jérémie
Published: January 2024

The objective of a quality system is to provide accurate and reliable results for clinical decision‐making. One part of this is Quality Control (QC) validation. QC validation is not routinely applied in veterinary laboratories. This leads to the inappropriate usage of random QC rules without knowing the Probability of error detection (Ped) and Probability of false rejection (Pfr) of a method. In this paper, we will discuss why QC validation is important, when it should be undertaken, why QC validation is done, and why it is not commonly done. We will present the role of total analytical error (TEa) in the QC validation process and the challenges when a consensus TEa has not been published. Finally, we will also discuss the possibilities of ‘gray zone’ determinations and mention the effects of bias on the quality of results. Reasons for the low prevalence of performing QC validation may include (a) lack of familiarity with the concept, (b) lack of time and resources needed to conduct QC validation, and (c) lack of TEa goal for some measurands. If no TEa is available, the user may elect to use a ‘reverse approach’ to QC validation. This uses the CV and bias generated from the evaluation of QC measurements, specifying Ped, Pfr, and N (number of QC measurements/run). This identifies the lowest total error that can be controlled under these defined conditions, thus enabling the laboratory to have an estimate of the ‘gray zone’ associated with results generated with a specific assay.
Simplification of Venturi-Meter Calculations
Authors: Warren Glenn B.
Published: January 2024

In this paper the author describes a method which he has devised for the simplification of the calculations involved in the venturi-meter measurement of the flow of compressed air, and which reduces the work of one determination to a simple slide-rule computation requiring but a few settings. The method is based on the venturi-meter formula as given by Herbert H. Reynolds in Trans.Am.Soc.M.E., Vol. 38, p. 799, and can be easily applied to any venturi meter used for the measurement of a gas.
Design of Flywheels for Reciprocating Machinery Connected to Synchronous Generators or Motors
Authors: Doherty R. E. , Franklin R. F.
Published: January 2024

This problem, although long since understood in a fundamental way, has never been completely worked out. It has been largely a matter of chance whether the flywheel installed has given trouble or satisfactory operation. As covered by the literature, the problem has not been sufficiently understood by many of the engine and compressor builders, or by generator and motor builders. But what is more important, most of those who have understood the problem have found not only a lack of reliable design constants necessary for the calculation, but also that the calculation itself was too involved and laborious to be carried out. Yet all will agree that if the thing can be calculated with practical accuracy and expedition, it would be highly desirable.

The purpose of this paper is to present a way to do this. It gives in part the results of a rather extended investigation as outlined in Par. 3 below. The results given here are: (a) a complete solution of the problem of flywheel moment as related to the crank effort, synchronizing force and damping force; (b) modification of (a) for practical calculation; (c) a short method for determining the crank effort from the engine or compressor design; (d) practical method of determining the “initial angular deviation” from the crank-effort curve; (e) tests confirming the equations; and (f) discussion of the electrical forces involved and of the limitations which must be imposed upon power fluctuations.
Boiler and Furnace Economy
Authors: Jacobus D. S.
Published: January 2024

That it is possible to effect material savings in power plants is evident, according to the author, when it is considered that fifty or even a hundred per cent more fuel is burned in some cases than would be required by plants of the best economy. It does not follow, however, that it would pay to replace all plants of low efficiency by those having a higher efficiency. There are many factors which must be taken into consideration before deciding that a new investment is warranted, and each case must be considered individually in order to determine whether or not it will pay to replace an existing plant by one of more economical type, or to add apparatus to increase the efficiency.

The present paper accordingly deals with such questions as when it will pay to use economizers in a new plant; the most economical rating at which to operate a boiler; limitations imposed on efficiency by inability of furnace brickwork to withstand temperatures available with many classes of fuel; furnace volume and length of flame travel; where air heaters are of a special advantage; importance of employing properly trained men for boiler operation; information afforded by flue-gas analyses, etc., etc.

The author points out in closing that furnace and boiler design must be coördinated in order to secure the best results. It is impossible to separate the boiler efficiency from the efficiency of the stoker and furnace in such a way that the value obtained for the former will depend solely on the construction of the boiler and not be influenced through the construction of the stoker and furnace. The stoker and furnace efficiency is influenced by the delayed or secondary combustion between the boiler tubes and this cannot be included in any analysis, neither can the loss due to excess air be correctly divided between the boiler and furnace.
The Evaporation of a Liquid Into a Gas
Authors: Lewis W. K.
Published: January 2024

The author investigates the mechanism of the evaporation of a liquid into a gas as applied to such processes as are found in gas scrubbers, humidifiers, dehumidifiers, water coolers, air driers, etc. He establishes the formula for calculating the humidity of air from wet- and dry-bulb thermometer readings, and shows that the coefficient of heat transfer divided by the coefficient of diffusion equals the humid heat of the gas.
The Bending and Torsion of Multi–Throw Crankshafts on Many Supports
Authors: Timoshenko S.
Published: January 2024

In this paper the author considers the bending and torsion of multi-throw crankshafts on many supports. The assumptions made to simplify the problem are (1) that the crankshaft is simply supported at the middle cross-sections of the journals, and (2) that each throw is considered as a rod whose cross-sections are small in comparison with the length. On these assumptions a system of equations for determination of bending moments at the supports is obtained. The application of these equations to the case of twist and bending of a three-throw crankshaft on four supports is considered in detail and the diagrams of bending moments for a numerical example are given.
A Graphical Study of Journal Lubrication (Part II)
Authors: Howarth H. A. S.
Published: January 2024

The present paper continues the investigations of journal lubrication originally reported to the Society a year ago in a paper of the same title covering the case of a journal completely surrounded by its bearing. The case of a partial bearing is considered in the following paper. The method of analysis leads to the formation of charts for the study of partial-bearing design problems, and some typical examples are solved with the use of these charts.
The Effect of Inaccuracy of Spacing on the Strength of Gear Teeth
Authors: Franklin Lloyd J. , Smith Charles H.
Published: January 2024

In a paper presented before the Society in 1912, Professor Guido H. Marx reported results of an extended series of tests to determine the strength of gear teeth at pitch velocities from 0 to 500 ft. per min. During the discussion of this paper it was suggested that further tests he made in order to obtain definite data as to the effect of inaccuracy of spacing on the strength of the teeth at high speeds. At the instance of Professor Marx the authors undertook such a series of tests, the results obtained and a description of the apparatus and procedure employed being given in the present paper.

Among other things the authors found that, in a broad way, at pitch velocities of 1000 ft. per min. and upward, gears whose inaccuracies of spacing do not exceed 0.001 in. will carry twice the load of those having inaccuracies of spacing of 0.006 in.; and that the strength of gears having inaccuracies of spacing of the order of 0.002 in. is about half-way between the two. An error of 0.006 in. in the size of teeth tested is much more than will ordinarily be found in first-class commercial cut gears.
Intakes for Power Plants: Including a Description of Experiments and Results on a Large-Scale Model
Authors: Angus Robert W.
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this paper is to set forth the desirable features of intakes placed in rivers or other bodies of water for supplying water for hydraulic turbines and other equipment. The paper makes special reference to protection against ice and other large floating substances. It includes a description and discussion and conclusions with reference to an extensive set of experiments made by the author at Niagara Falls, Canada, on a large model of the Niagara River, their immediate object being the design of a suitable intake for the Queenston hydroelectric plant.
A Method for the Economic Design of Penstocks
Authors: Doolittle H. L.
Published: January 2024

The author presents an original, simple graphic method for the economic design of penstocks. Given a certain flow of water, length of piping, and profile of penstock, curves can be rapidly drawn for pipes of varying diameter which indicate the frictional loss and its value in dollars. Other curves indicate the cost of a certain diameter of piping, which includes such items as the cost of pipe in place, interest, and depreciation. The costs being plotted as ordinates, and the lengths of pipe as abscissas, the total area under a curve representing the summation of these curves indicates the total cost for any diameter of piping selected. It is therefore possible to determine by inspection the most economical system. In view of the large number of variables entering into the problem, it is believed that the method presented should be of considerable help to the designer, and should eliminate guesswork in the selection of suitable pipe diameters.
A Graphical Study of Journal Lubrication (Part III)
Authors: Howarth H. A. S.
Published: January 2024

This paper continues the investigation of journal lubrication reported to the Society under the same title in 1923 and 1924. Friction curves are here presented for central and offset partial bearings whose curvature radius exceeds that of the journal. The characteristics of fitted partial bearings are then studied, including their carrying capacities and friction.
Rough Turning with Particular Reference to the Steel Cut
Authors: French H. J. , Digges T. G.
Published: January 2024

Tests described in this report extend portions of Taylor’s original investigations in rough turning carbon steels to current commercial high-speed tool and structural alloy steels. They were made primarily to show the effect upon tool performance of variation in chemical composition and mechanical properties of the steel cut, and accordingly include lathe tests on carbon, nickel, low- and high-chromium, chromium-vanadium, chromium-molybdenum, and nickel-chromium steels having tensile strengths between 65,000 and 195,000 lb. per sq. in. However, many of the tests with the customary high-tungsten-low-vanadium steel tools were duplicated with low-tungsten-high-vanadium or cobalt high-speed steel tools, and there is included a partial study of the effects of cutting speed, feed, depth of cut, and coolants upon tool life and the power required in cutting. Graphical representation of results is employed, wherever possible, to show the laws of cutting.
Kinematics of Cams, Calculated by Graphical Methods
Authors: Schreck H.
Published: January 2024

This paper presents the application of graphical methods for the calculation of velocity and acceleration of cams. The theory of the graphical methods is explained, its application to problems comprising various shapes of cams is presented, and changes in kinematic conditions due to variation in the shape of the cam are described. These results are shown in tables and plotted in graphs in order to present a comparison of the forces produced by the various cams. Particular care has been taken to describe the graphical methods in such a way that they can be readily employed in every-day work without referring each time to the theoretical analyses.

So far as the author is aware, no such demonstration and comparison of cams has thus far been published and it is his wish that this very simple graphical method may find wide employment with engineers who use cams in their work.
The Problem of Solid Fuel Injection in High-Speed Flexible Oil Engines
Authors: Attendu A. C.
Published: January 2024

The “flexible” oil engine, the author states, is one which must be capable of starting from cold on its own fuel without preheating of that fuel or the aid of a combustion chamber or electric appliances, or by the preliminary use of a lighter oil for warming-up purposes. It must be able to start cold at 70 to 100 r.p.m., idle to 125 r.p.m. or about, and run from that speed up to a maximum which varies from 1000 r.p.m. for trucks, light marine engines, and the like, to 1800 to 2000 r.p.m. as required for aviation. The author describes his recent work in the development of a system of solid fuel injection that will meet the demands of the flexible engine, and gives particulars of a new type of fuel pump and an injector provided with a mixing chamber in the cylinder head which he believes will lead to the desired result.
Direct-Fired Powdered-Fuel Boilers with Well-Type Furnaces at Charles R. Huntley Station
Authors: Cushing H. M. , Moore R. P.
Published: January 2024

The 1926 extension to the Charles R. Huntley Station in Buffalo includes the addition of four 1250-hp. boilers, each with water-cooled furnace walls and 76 per cent economizer surface. The paper describes the evolution of the furnace design, gives reasons for the selection of pulverized coal, and the adoption of the direct-fired system, and presents the operating results. Tests embodied in the paper show unit efficiencies in excess of 85 per cent within the operating range of the equipment—from 125 per cent to 550 per cent of rating of boiler and walls.
The Flow of Heat Through Furnace Hearths
Authors: Keller J. D.
Published: January 2024

In this paper the author points out the lack of definite knowledge upon which the engineer can base calculations of heat losses through furnace hearths. The solid or non-ventilated type of hearth is discussed, and certain conclusions as to relations of heal flow to shape and construction are reached. The greater part of the paper is devoted to an explanation of the methods used in arriving at these conclusions. A series of formulas and examples illustrating their use are given for each of the several types of hearths discussed. The question of value and methods of insulation is carefully considered.
The Reciprocating Dry-Vacuum Pump
Authors: Weeks Walter S. , Letchworth Pierre E.
Published: January 2024

The paper is concerned with the number of strokes that must be made by a pump to produce a given pressure in a tank.. The theory of a vacuum pump with clearance is presented, and a formula is derived which gives the requisite number of strok.es and which involves the dead-end vacuum expressed as a fraction of a perfect vacuum, the desired vacuum expressed in the same manner, and a factor which involves the volume of the tank, the displacement of the pump, and its clearance. Experiments were carried on by the authors to test the accuracy of their formula, and the causes for deviation are discussed in the paper.
Destruction Test of a 66-In. Forged Steel Penstock Pipe
Authors: Cox John L.
Published: January 2024

The section of pipe tested is representative of a portion of one section of the penstock of the Big Creek Power Plant No. 2, near Los Angeles, Calif., of the Southern California Edison Co., with the object of determining the elastic limit and ultimate strength, as well as the deformation and behavior under high pressure.

Details and specifications of the pipe section are given as well as a description of the test arrangements and measuring apparatus. The test is described and the results are given in tabular and graphic form.

The pipe reached its elastic limit at a pressure of 2150 lb. corresponding to a tangential stress of 25,000 lb. per sq. in. in the steel of the walls, the measured proportional limit of the steel at the ends being 24,500 lb. The pipe failed at a pressure of 5300 lb., which, by the approximation of the extended Birnie formula, would correspond to a fiber stress of 62,000 lb. per sq. in., compared with an actual tensile strength of 67,750 lb. The external expansion was 6 in. in diameter, or 8.3 per cent. The internal expansion was 6-3/8 in. in diameter or 9.63 per cent. The mean expansion of the wall was 8.96 per cent. The reduction in wall thickness at the mid-length of the pipe at the fracture was 3/16 in. or 6.25 per cent. The paper closes with a discussion of the results of the test.
The Economic Field for Large Diesel Engines
Authors: Pollister Edward B.
Published: January 2024

The author defines a large Diesel engine as one ranging from 2500 to 25,000 hp. He cites the successful performance of marine Diesels, and gives figures showing that the aggregate horsepower of such engines now being built or installed is over three times that of marine steam turbines. He points out territory far removed from coal mines and where a cheap supply of fuel oil makes the use of the Diesel engine especially desirable. Over half of the fuel oil consumed in generating electric power, he states, could be saved by burning it in Diesels rather than under boilers. Diesel generating stations cost about the same as modern steam plants, around $135 per kw. Diesels have characteristics which especially fit them for use as auxiliaries in steam and hydroelectric power plants. The paper concludes with a brief consideration of the use of large Diesel engines in industrial plants.
Pulp-Grinder Control Reduces Paper Costs
Authors: Meyer Adolph F.
Published: January 2024

Large amounts of power are used in grinding wood pulp for use in paper, and unregulated pulp-grinder loads vary greatly and rapidly. This paper describes a governor for controlling water-wheel-driven and motor-driven pulp grinders and points out the economies effected through such regulation. Governors operating on the waterwheel gate are impracticable and undesirable for the purpose of controlling the speed of waterwheels driving pulp grinders. The Meyer governor maintains uniform friction load, and thereby uniform speed, by varying the pressure with which the wood is pushed against the grindstones. As a speed regulator for water-wheel-driven grinders it is actuated by turbine speed. As a load regulator for motor-driven grinders it is actuated by the load on the grinder motors, which it maintains constant. This paper also describes a master regulator by means of which the total kilowatt load on a given system is maintained constant. The master regulator functions through the load regulators on the individual grinder motors. It automatically distributes the increases or decreases in total grinder load necessitated by decreases or increases in load elsewhere in the system, equally or in any other desired proportion, among the several motors by automatically changing the load setting of the individual regulators. The rate of action of the master regulator to correct load changes is proportional to the variation of the total load from normal at the given moment. No electrical contacts or relays are used, yet great sensitiveness is secured.
Radio Developments Applied to Aircraft
Authors: Dellinger J. H. , Diamond H.
Published: January 2024

In this paper, the authors point out the need for equipment and methods, that will reduce the weather hazards of air transportation. Radio offers great possibilities as an aid to flight. Research work carried on by the Bureau of Standards has lead to developments, through which weather and landing conditions can be communicated to pilots while in flight and through course navigation, flying can be done satisfactorily regardless of fog. Many interesting applications of radio to aircraft are described.
Landing Speed of Airplanes
Authors: Lee John G.
Published: January 2024

Results of a large number of wind-tunnel and flight tests on the maximum lift of wings are presented, analyzed, and compared. Curves are given showing the relationship between the shape and lift of wings and for the landing speeds obtained with different wing loadings and lift coefficients. The subjects of sinking speeds, landing impacts, and the effect of flaps and slots are discussed in relation to landing speed and the general problem of easy landing.
Comparison of Reinforced-Shell and Steel-Tube Fuselage Construction
Authors: Cumming W. C.
Published: January 2024

The author of this paper analyzes stresses in the reinforced-shell and steel-type fuselage of an airplane, and tells how various parts were constructed. Four types of construction were considered, and the reinforced-shell type resulted in a weight saving of 2 per cent.
Recent Developments in Air Transport
Authors: Johnson P. G.
Published: January 2024

The author, after pointing out that there are 21,000 miles of established airways and 1600 airports in the United States, discusses the recent rapid growth of air-mindedness on the part of the public. As an index of this he estimates that 12,000 planes will be built in 1929 as against 622 in 1919, which latter were mostly military craft. He predicts greatly increased employment of planes for mail transportation, their speedy adoption for handling express matter, and their very general use for passenger travel.
Relation Between Commercial Airplane Design and Commercial Uses of Airplanes
Authors: Wright T. P.
Published: January 2024

The paper presents some of the problems of the airplane designers, together with an indication of a trend in airplane design which it is felt possibly may take place. The following topics are discussed: fundamental requirements, design elements, commercial uses of airplanes, and airplane designs.

Under the last item, an attempt is made to analyze the points discussed in the preceding ones, with a view to suggesting certain design arrangements which seem most logically to fulfil the requirements which the airplane so designed must meet.
Stress Distribution in Rotating Disks of Ductile Material After the Yield Point Has Been Reached
Authors: Nadai A. , Donnell L. H.
Published: January 2024

This paper covers a study of the distribution of stress in a rotating disk of ductile material (of uniform thickness, with and without a central hole) after the yield point has been passed. Curves are computed showing the growth of the “plastic” region at different speeds, until the whole disk has become plastic. General methods are developed, and applied to examples for finding the complete distribution of stresses and strains in such disks.

While the conditions assumed are seldom exactly realized, the results should throw light on many practical problems as well as form a starting point for a more complete investigation of more complex problems of plastic flow in ductile materials.
Vibration Damping, Including the Case of Solid Friction
Authors: Kimball A. L.
Published: January 2024

The idea of logarithmic vibration decrement is briefly reviewed and several ways of expressing it and finding it are given.

The simple case of a vibrating reed is treated, three kinds of damping being considered—(1) an external liquid damping, (2) a liquid viscosity damping within the spring, (3) solid damping within the spring whereby the dissipation per cycle is independent of frequency but depends upon amplitude squared. For an experimental study and discussion of this type of damping see “Internal Friction in Solids,” by A. L. Kimball and D. E. Lovell.

These cases are discussed both for free vibrations and sustained vibrations.

A method is given for analyzing solid damping vibration problems which is of general application to all cases of vibration that can be treated on the assumption of an ideal viscosity damping. This method is used by Ormondroyd and Den Hartog in the closure to the discussion of their paper entitled “The Theory of the Dynamic Vibration Absorber.”

The discussion of vibration damping given herewith presents methods used by the writer for several years past in vibration work.
Surface Heat Transmission
Authors: Heilman R. H.
Published: January 2024

In view of the dearth of reliable data on the emissivity coefficients of various surfaces at the lower temperatures met with in refrigeration and heat-insulation work, the author undertook on investigation of the subject at Mellon Institute of Industrial Research, Pittsburgh. The paper describes that investigation, and among other things gives particulars regarding the methods employed in determining surface coefficients; the radiometer used; the determination of emissivity coefficients; derivation of an equation for convection; convection losses from various geometrical shapes; total heat loss from various shapes and surfaces, etc. Several charts are included in the paper which make it possible for the engineer readily to determine the total heat loss from various surfaces, and which eliminate all need for calculations for surface temperatures up to 700 deg. fahr.
Some Notes on Producer Gas and Other Fuels
Authors: Windett Victor
Published: January 2024

In this paper the author discusses operating conditions and costs for making gas. The relative values of fuels are given through various examples and calculations. These comparisons are based on producers complying with the more exacting requirements of present-day practice.
New Dynamic Device for Scheduling by the Gantt Chart Principle
Authors: Szepesi Eugene
Published: January 2024

The direct presentation of magnitudes and relations in economic conditions, as originated by Gantt, is used as a foundation of the Szepesi method, and the management engineer is given a mechanical development of this graphic method that is flexible and interchangeable as developed in the dynamic graphic control instrument.
Handling Papers and Small Articles by Pneumatic Tubes
Authors: Whiting James
Published: January 2024

Pneumatic tubes as applied to the handling of papers and small articles accomplish what the telephone does for the spoken word. They not only now move the mass of paper work attendant on our industrial activity, with its intensive distribution, keen competition, and large production, but are being applied continuously to the mechanical processes of production.

Applications of pneumatic tubes comprise 1¼-in.-diameter tubes handling radio messages, telegrams, telephone toll tickets, etc.; 2¼-in. tubes for general message and utility service; 3-in. tubes for handling tools, small machine parts, samples, etc.; 4-in. tubes handling hot ingot test pieces, gunpowder, paint samples, etc.; 5-in. tubes in testing laboratories and railroad freight yards; 3-in. × 6-in. oval tubes for bank service in handling pass books and deposits, and in publishing houses for carrying copy and proofs, etc., and 4-in. × 7-in. oval tubes handling complete folios of correspondence, insurance policies, etc.

The tasks to which pneumatic tubes are applied are innumerable and form a list which includes every industry, and as added applications are made in the general business world, other new applications become constantly apparent.
Helical Gears
Authors: Colbert Thomas P.
Published: January 2024

Designers seem to avoid helical and worm gears as being unsuitable and too expensive. A reliable method of selecting gears for a given purpose would result in more frequent applications. The author gives charts and formulas designed to make the computing of spiral gears less difficult.
Cemented and Tungsten-Carbide Tools
Authors: Hoyt Samuel L.
Published: January 2024

Considerable interest has been shown in the past few years in the new tool materials which have tungsten carbide as a base. The most promising field for the use of these tools is in machining materials which are so abrasive that ordinary tools are speedily worn away or lose their cutting edge, but which do not exert great pressure on the tool. The author points out that the economic value of cemented tungsten carbide is so great in many instances that it at once justifies its use. In some others this will not be so marked and in still other cases its use will be less economical or not at all suitable. Among the latter applications may be mentioned finishing cuts on iron and steel, hogging cuts on steel, or, in general, cuts with heavy feeds and cuts which impose heavy pressures on the tool.
Diesel Power Plants for Large City Buildings: An Analysis of the Electric Power Requirements of Large Buildings, and a Study of How They May Be Met by Diesel Power Plants. Figures Are Included on the Economics of Diesel Power in Two New York Buildings
Authors: Kates Edgar J.
Published: January 2024

Economies and attractive features of Diesel engines for use in large city buildings are discussed in this paper. Two examples are presented of actual cases where Diesel engines are recommended. One is for a building in use several years, the other for a building about to be built.
Research Problems in Electrotyping
Authors: MacArthur Hamilton Enterkin
Published: January 2024

A comprehensive statement is made of the research undertaken by this organization and of the problems yet to be solved. It has been estimated that the research already accomplished has saved the industry two hundred thousand a year at a cost of ten thousand a year; some put the saving at twice that amount. It is only through coordinated research that the problems can be solved.
End Coatings for Logs and Lumber
Authors: Teesdale L. V.
Published: January 2024

Unequal drying of green timber and lumber causes checking and splitting. As drying under natural conditions is more rapid from the end grain than from the side grain, protection of the ends to retard the end drying is resorted to. Suitable end coatings are also effective in preventing development of stain and decay.

In this paper the author tells of studies made by the Forest Products Laboratory with various coatings and the beneficial results that are obtained by reducing the waste from end checks, decay, and stain while timber is seasoning.
New method of fabrication of suspended metallic single electron transistor (SET)
Authors: Istiaque Rahaman Mohammad , Szakmany G. P. , Orlov A. O. , Snider G. L.
Published: January 2024

Charge sensing applications utilizing single electron transistors (SETs) as electrometers face challenges due to nearby background charge movements. In this study, we present an innovative fabrication method for creating suspended Al-AlOx-Al SETs positioned above a cavity. These suspended SETs exhibit significantly reduced flicker noise with 1fα noise spectral density when compared to their substrate-based counterparts. This noise reduction can be attributed to the elimination of the substrate beneath the SET island. Consequently, our fabricated suspended SETs are highly suitable for demanding charge sensing applications and provide a promising platform for in-depth investigations into the sources of charge noise in such devices.