A brief introduction to equi-chordal and equi-isoclinic tight fusion frames

Equi-chordal and equi-isoclinic tight fusion frames (ECTFFs and EITFFs) are both types of optimal packings of subspaces in Euclidean spaces. In the special case where these subspaces are one-dimensional, ECTFFs and EITFFs both correspond to types of optimal packings of lines known as equiangular tight frames. In this brief note, we review some of the fundamental ideas and results concerning ECTFFs and EITFFs

Comparison of Two Separation Methods for Biological Particles: Field-Flow Fractionation (FFF) and Sucrose Density Gradients

Sucrose gradient centrifugation and Field-flow fractionation (FFF) are two different particle separation methods that overcome the problems of similar size microorganisms clumping together during standard filtration methods. FFF separates particles based on size and density via the parabolic velocity profile of laminar flow in a ribbon-like channel. The sucrose method separates particles via centrifugation in a density gradient. Both techniques worked well in separating eukaryotic from prokaryotic microbes, with the preferred method depending on the type and relative abundance of organisms to be separated. Minicells were separated from mother cells in transformed Escherichia coli cultures, heterotrophic flagellates (e.g., Diplonema papillatum) from their bacterial prey in cultures, and various eukaryotes from prokaryotes in natural seawater communities. These separated clean fractions were further analyzed for their biochemical composition (using radiolabeling and subsequent biochemical fractionation) revealing significant differences in the bulk biochemical makeup between prokaryotic and eukaryotic microbes. Even within domains, the sucrose gradient method was able to separate prokaryotic and eukaryotic microbes by size. Variables that influence and improve these separation techniques were explored, including the effect of aldehyde fixation

Vulvar contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is a common problem in the world of dermatology as well as women’s health, where vulvar irritation is a frequent complaint among women. It occurs following exposure to exogenous irritants (irritant contact dermatitis) or allergens (allergic contact dermatitis), and can present in acute, subacute, or chronic forms. While vulvar pruritus and pain can be seen in a number of different conditions, contact dermatitis is one of the most common causes encountered in clinical practice, and its effects on patient quality of life can be dramatic. With a thorough history and a complete physical exam, this prevalent condition can be diagnosed and addressed. Treatment is aimed at identifying and eliminating the underlying cause, restoring the damaged epithelial barrier, and calming the inflammation. Although numerous options are available for addressing the itch and pain, the only true ”cure” for contact dermatitis is to avoid the responsible exposures