Abstract: Amino acid amides of 5-amino-1,3,4-thiadiazole-2-thione are disclosed. These compounds inhibit matrix metalloproteinase enzymes and cartilage degradation. Methods of treating diseases caused by over-activity of matrix metalloproteinases, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a bile acid derivative, which comprises a bile acid derivatized at the carboxyl group with a hydroxamic acid or hydroxamate ester. The carboxyl group in the bile acid compound can also be derivatized with an amino acid or oligopeptide, whose C-terminus is derivatized with a hydroxamic acid or a hydroxamate ester. The present invention also relates to a method of use of a bile acid or a bile acid derivative to inhibit a metalloproteinase enzyme, comprising contacting a metalloproteinase with an effective amount of a bile acid or bile acid derivative. In another embodiment, the present invention further relates to a method of use of a bile acid or bile acid derivative to therapeutically treat a disease, which is ameliorated by inhibiting a metalloproteinase enzyme. In this method, a therapeutically effective amount of a bile acid, a bile acid derivative or physiologically acceptable salts thereof, is administered to a human or other mammal.

Abstract: A buoyant material/cable assembly is formed by placing elongated segments of a syntactic foam material around an underwater cable or the like to form a structure suitable for deep water applications. Banding in the form of oppositely directed spirals extend about the assembly and about its length to secure the segments together, to the cable, and against relative movement with respect to the cable. The bandings are fastened together at selected intervals along their length.Another form of the assembly consists of individual units of buoyant material formed of combined segments, secured together by bands. The units are spaced along the length of the cable.Another form consists of individual flotation units, or buoys, secured by flexible links to the cable. Oppositely directed spiral bandings extend along the length of the cable to secure the flexible links against movement with respect to the cable and with respect to each other.

Abstract: A large capacity, cable turntable assembly is provided for use in connection with laying along lengths of underwater cable. A turntable is provided which has a planar, toroidal floor bounded by an upright, interior wall surrounding the axis of rotation and an upright, exterior wall spaced apart from the interior wall. The walls and floor define an open-top chamber for receiving a long, coiled length of cable. A multiplicity of fluid-cushion bearings are secured to the turntable below the floor and permit rotation of the turntable on a supporting surface when the turntable is loaded with cable and when the cable is removed. The fluid-cushion bearings also permit lateral movement of the turntable over distances. Water is supplied under pressure to the bearings to facilitate movement of the turntable. The turntable may be positioned on a shoreside-support, permitting rotation of the turntable in order to load cable onto the turntable.