This study investigates the mechanical behaviour of elastomeric bearings with a low shape factor (LSF). Such can offer an effective solution for three-dimensional seismic isolation structures, that is, in vertical as well horizontal directions. They could also be employed developing low-cost systems countries due to their reduced weight and manufacturing cost. The first part describes tests car...

We examine a novel mechanism for active surface morphing inspired by the cell body deformations of euglenids. Actuation is accomplished through in-plane simple shear along prescribed slip lines decorating the surface. Under general non-uniform actuation, such local deformation produces Gaussian curvature, and therefore leads to shape changes. Geometrically, a deformation that realizes the presc...

Human macrophage differentiation inducing factor (DIF) can induce differentiation of human myeloid leukemic cells into macrophage-like cells in vitro. A procedure is described for purification of DIF from serum-free human monocytic leukemia THP-1 cell-conditioned medium. The procedure included concentration of a conditioned medium by ultrafiltration, lentil lectin-Sepharose affinity chromatogra...

Figure-ground organization must be given to the model because it has no provisions for establishing figure-ground organization on its own. This means that the model can only come into play after the shape in the 2D image of the 3D shape has be established. To do this, the model is provided with information about which: (i) points form edges in the image, (ii) edges and vertices form contours of...