Abstract: The present invention provides novel synthetic apolipoprotein E (ApoE)-mimicking peptides wherein the receptor binding domain of apolipoprotein E is covalently linked to 18A, the well characterized lipid-associating model class A amphipathic helical peptide, or a modified version thereof. Such peptides enhance low density lipoprotein (LDL) and very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) binding to and degradation by fibroblast or HepG2 cells. Also provided are possible applications of the synthetic peptides in lowering human plasma LDL/VLDL cholesterol levels, thus inhibiting atherosclerosis. The present invention also relates to synthetic peptides that can improve HDL function and/or exert anti-inflammatory properties.

Abstract: An improved main shaft for a coal pulverizer having a selected portion of the main shaft provided with an intervening material such as a thermally sprayed ceramic coating.

Abstract: An improved main shaft for a coal pulverizer having a selected portion of the main shaft provided with an intervening material such as a thermally sprayed ceramic coating.

Abstract: An improved main shaft for a coal pulverizer having a selected portion of the main shaft provided with an intervening material such as a thermally sprayed ceramic coating.

Abstract: An improved main shaft for a coal pulverizer having a selected portion of the main shaft nitride treated and a dry film lubricant applied to the yoke end.

Abstract: An integrally cast, non-welded coal spreader for a furnace or boiler burner has integrally cast swirl vanes. A shaft of the spreader extends into the hollow interior of a cap of the spreader and the vanes extend outwardly of the cap and are cast as one piece with the cap.

Abstract: A labyrinth articulation joint (38) for use in the seal frame (35) of a rotary regenerative air heater (20). An internal labyrinth arrangement of intercooperating tabs (54,55) and slots (44,45) in the two hinges (41,51) of the labyrinth articulation joint (38) present a series of successive right angle turns that increases the pressure drop through the labyrinth articulation joint (38) thus reducing the leakage of air through the labyrinth articulation joint (38), and thereby minimizing erosion of the labyrinth articulation joint (38) due to abrasive particles that would otherwise be carried through the joint by the leakage air.

Abstract: A floating seal for a rotating pipe joint joins two generally parallel and axially aligned pipes and provides a substantially fluid tight seal between them, while permitting relative rotation of the two pipes as well as limited relative lateral movement of the two pipes. The joint also accommodates dimensional changes, particularly in length, such as those generated by temperature change. A preferred embodiment includes a floating seal assembly having a plurality of spaced parallel circumferential grooves about the inner wall of the aperture which retain mating compression rings which are inwardly biased against the inlet pipe.

Abstract: An improved spherical swivel joint assembly that substantially connectedly seals consecutively disposed conduit sections while allowing simultaneous angular and lateral joint displacement due to forces exerted at the joint during the transport of fluid therethrough.