Abstract: A treatment to alleviate the symptoms of diseases characterized by defects in keratinization consisting of the topical application of an ointment or lotion containing one or more lower aliphatic compounds having from 2 to about 6 carbon atoms, and preferably having .alpha.-carbon functionality is disclosed. The compounds include .alpha.-hydroxy acids, keto acids and esters thereof, and 3-hydroxybutyric acid. The therapeutic composition may include one or more of the commpounds present in a total amount of from one to twenty percent in either a water or alcohol solution or an ointment. Topical application to affected areas has been found to achieve a complete remission of dandruff, acne and palmar and plantar hyperkeratosis.

Abstract: A temperature measuring circuit provides a signal varying linearly in response to temperature variations over a temperature range and includes a thermistor coupled between the collector of a transistor and one terminal of a regulated voltage source. A resistor is coupled between the emitter of the transistor and a second terminal of the voltage source. The voltage at the collector of the transistor varies substantially linearly with variations in the resistance of the thermistor over one segment of the temperature range when the transistor is operated in its linear region.

Abstract: This invention involves the use of retinal in topical therapy of acne vulgaris.