Abstract: A welding method that enables the joining of at least two dissimilar, metallic alloys to form a weld that is free of cracks is disclosed. The method incorporates a pure (99.00% minimum by weight) nickel fill-wire, integrally assembled into the joint between the two alloyed metals to be joined. The alloys joined by this method are an iron-based, low expansivity, gamma-prime strengthened superalloy (i.e., Incoloy®) and a high carbon, powder metallurgical tool steel high in refractory metal alloying agents (i.e., CPM REX 20). Welding of the joint results in the formation of a nickel rich region within the weld, thus “inoculating” the weld against cracks. The weld joint formed by the method of the present invention can be used in the fabrication of a rotating anode bearing shaft assembly for use in an x-ray generating device.

Abstract: A thermomechanical process for producing high strength and thermally stable alloys, comprising the steps of: pre-heating an alloy bar or rod stock of a pre-selected size at a temperature below that at which grain growth occurs; and thereafter rotoforging the heated alloy bar or rod stock at a sufficient deformation level and temperature to fragment the grain boundary phases of the alloy. The resulting alloy is characterized by an ultra-fine, very uniform grain size, high tensile strength at room and high temperatures, good ductility, and a stress-rupture rate that is about twice as long as conventional alloys that have not undergone the thermomechanical process.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to potassium adenosine triphosphate (“KATP”) channel opening compositions. The present invention also relates to the use of KATP channel openers in therapeutic applications. The KATP channel opening compositions of the present invention include diazoxide (7-chloro-3-methyl-2H-1,2,4-benzo-thiadiazine 1,1-dioxide) and aprikalim. According to the present invention, diazoxide and aprikalim can be used independently, or in combination. The present also relates to therapeutic methods for protecting neuronal function utilizing KATP channel openers. Methods of the present invention may be advantageous for protecting neuronal function, prior to medical procedures, after stroke-like events or other events associated with reductions in blood flow, and/or for preserving tissues or organs against cellular injury and death during removal, storage, transplantation or reattachment.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method that is useful to predict an individual's increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. The method comprises the steps of: (a) collecting a biological sample from an individual; and (b) analyzing the biological sample for the presence of IL-1A 2,2 (−889) genotype, IL-1B 2,2 (+3953) genotype, or a combination of IL-1A 2,2 (−889) and IL-1B 2,2 (+3953) genotypes, the presence of any of the genotypes indicating that the individual is at risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of using 17&agr;-dihydroequilenin and metabolic conjugates thereof to prevent and reduce atherogenesis in males and females without causing endometrial proliferation in females and without producing feminizing changes in males. 17&agr;-dihydroequilenin was evaluated for its effects on plasma lipid and lipoprotein, glucose, insulin concentrations, coronary artery vasomotor function, and reproductive organ and mammary gland proliferation in atherosclerotic mammals. 17&agr;-dihydroequilenin was found to prevent endothelium-dependent vasoconstriction in males (p<0.05) and ovariectomized females (p<0.08). 17&agr;-dihydroequilenin treatment increased plasma apolipoprotein A-1 concentrations (p<0.05) and lowered fasting insulin concentrations (p<0.05) without changing fasting plasma glucose concentrations in males. 17&agr;-dihydroequilenin had no other effects on plasma lipid and lipoprotein concentrations in either males or females.