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"Never give in, never give in, never, never, never, never..."
-- Sir Winston Churchill (1941)
In her 502-page book, Anne Morrow, who opened a gift shop in a Corpus Christi strip mall in 1984, documents how a dispute with a well-connected landlord who refused to erect a directory sign as promised, initiated a chain of horrendous events that eventually endangered her life, ruined her health, and involved a district attorney, drug trafficking, a judge, FBI agents, elected state and federal officials, and scores of lawyers who either refused to take her case or who abruptly withdrew under suspicious circumstances.
"A CASE OF INJUSTICE" by Anne Morrow
BOOK REVIEW by Joel M. Skousen
This is a dramatic and powerful account of one feisty Texas businesswoman who wouldn't quit. I don't know why she is alive today, except by the grace of God. The powers arrayed against her were and still are ruthless. This real live story is set in south Texas, an area of the US which in the 1980s became an alternate source of drug importation for the CIA and other competing drug lords after south Florida became too hot, politically. Anne Morrow had married into one of the first families of Dallas the Parrino family. She had political connections and money. Life was good. After the death of her husband, she ran a successful gift shop and, in 1984, decided to expand her business down into Corpus Christi. Like any normal unsuspecting business person, she entered into a standard lease for space at a new shopping center owned by one A.C. Gilmore a seedy, unkempt king of the florist trade in south Texas (her first mistake). Readers of the book will note that as her account unfolds, Anne makes a series of little errors in judgment, each compounding her involvement in future bad situations, and each error accompanied by those subtle nervous feelings of conscience that forewarn of trouble. She doesn't heed the little warning signs, being positive and upbeat. This mistake is made by most people basking in the illusions of "good times." For Anne, it wouldn't take long for her experiences to shatter these illusions, a hard lesson in learning to listen better to these small warning signs. After the absentee landlord failed to fulfill certain verbal agreements dealing with the critical issue of signage, Anne tried to sue for breach of contract. During her initial investigation, she found out the seedy landlord had altered the lease document in order to justify his breach an obvious and outright act of criminal fraud. Gotcha! or so she thought. Little did she know, the seedy, overweight A.C. Gilmore was protected by a corrupt local judicial system, intrinsically linked with local law firms. Gilmore was in fact involved in the drug trade, and was using his investments in shopping centers and other legitimate businesses to launder the profits. How many of us do business with companies every day (sometimes national chains) who appear legitimate but which may be fronts for money laundering operations or secret government operations? You may never know, but it's a much bigger problem than you think. Even major airlines and banks are involved. The truth about a company's linkage with organized government crime may only surface if you have a significant legal problem with them and find out, in your quest for a resolution, that this particular business is beyond the law. Most front businesses are smart enough to not make a major issue of small legal matters they settle quickly to keep their profile low. But A.C. Gilmore was a slob he didn't care how he handled the situation because he knew he was working for people bigger than even the state of Texas. He also had local judges in his pocket and was confident they would cover for whatever he did. He was right. This slowly started to dawn on Anne as she engaged one attorney after another in Corpus Christi. In each case, they turned from friendly one day to sour and distant the next and started giving her the run around about why they couldn't represent her, or why she didn't have a case. Somebody was turning these lawyers against her. She couldn't believe a louse like Gilmore could have this much power. Could he be buying them off? She had a near air-tight case and no attorney would take it. Convinced that Gilmore couldn't control all 650 lawyers in town, she kept trying. A private investigator stepped forward one day and offered to help suspiciously, without charge. He and other connected politicians steered her towards an attorney who did agree to take her case and then proceeded to sabotage it in a major way. He was talking to all her adversaries and acting on their behalf a clear violation of attorney responsibility. When she threatened to charge him for misconduct to the Texas Bar Association, he just laughed. He was protected. One of the keys to this story is her documentation of dealings with these attorneys. For those who distrust attorneys, this book will justify your every suspicion. It wasn't that everyone was involved personally with A.C. Gilmore. He wasn't paying them off. Most of these attorneys didn't even recognize the name of Gilmore when she initially presented her case to them. But then the following day, someone would get to these attorneys and their demeanor would change. None had the principles to blow the whistle on those applying pressure. They all folded and turned on her every one, without exception. This means that there is an informal control system that shadows the legal profession even in small communities. Individual lawyers never see it or know it exists until they start to handle a case that threatens some higher power. Then the phone calls come; subtle threats or warnings are uttered. Names are dropped. Potential consequences are hinted at. Lawyers are ladder-climbers in the profession. Most value their position in the legal pecking order more than their sense of justice. This is telling...and chilling. But the good ol' boys underestimated Anne Morrow's determination. She finally went to the local elected officials with her case. Friendly at first, they too turned on her, or actively attempted to steer her into the arms of other vultures. She then went to the county prosecutor to request that he file criminal charges. He refused to even see her ever! He had already been alerted. She bypassed him and got the same treatment from deputy prosecutors. She then went to the grand jury direct but the foreman informed her they could do nothing without the prosecutor's approval (not true). She went to the county commission same story. When she proceeded to the Sheriff's office, she initially did get an admission from them that the area is full of corruption. They welcomed her case, and promised to pursue it in order to clean up the county. However, within a month the investigation was shut down and they treated her like dirt. Anne then turned to the State of Texas and charged the county prosecutor with prosecutorial misconduct. A major investigation by the Texas state Prosecutorial Council began. At first the investigators were on her side. But once again, after all the incriminating evidence was gathered and presented to the State Legislature, orders came down from "above the State" to kill it. The Council was disbanded for good. Over the course of the next 10 years or so, she took her story to the FBI (in many different states), to Congressmen, Senators, and others, pulling every political string she had. Same story everyone protected the surly A.C. Gilmore. Anne's description of the hostility she received at the hands of the FBI, even as she went from one state to another, tells volumes about how completely the dark side controls this once-sterling agency of justice. It was obvious to me, after reading halfway through her story, that A.C. Gilmore had more power than a simple south Texas drug lord. He had risen from a nobody to a multi-millionaire in less than 3 years. You can do that as a local drug lord, but you don't get the protection of the state of Texas, the FBI, and members of Congress unless you are working for the feds. In this case, I presume A.C. Gilmore was working for the CIA drug pipeline. Certainly, not all of the players who stonewalled Anne's case were guilty of direct conspiracy, or even had knowledge of the underlying conspiracy. But one thing was certainly happening: people with federal power at a very high level were calling down to the State level and telling them to shut down Anne Morrow's case probably in the name of "national security," that ubiquitous cover that stops anyone from asking further questions. Everyone stupidly snaps-to and salutes, "Yes, sir!" Anne was also surveilled throughout this ordeal and not by mafia thugs. She was shadowed and watched by clean cut federal agent types, and still is today to a lesser degree. That takes a lot of expensive resources, even for the dark side of government Anne Morrow still fights on. She wants closure, but she will never get it not, at least, in terms of ultimate justice. I have tried to console her with the thought that she has done us all a great service simply by putting up the valiant fight, and having the courage to name names and document the extent of collusion and criminal behavior of the entire justice system. Her book can do much to wake up sleeping America. But the media isn't about to help. The 4th estate, which should have been sympathetic to this case of extreme prejudice toward a woman businessperson, has scorned and betrayed her. We can only make her sacrifice meaningful if we buy the book, read her story and pass it on. Order A Case of Injustice online at http://www.palatinepress.com. It's available as a hardcopy, or half price as an E-book download to your computer. It's a must read. What good will it do? Plenty. All of us, even conservatives, need to have our illusions of honesty and goodness on the part of local government shattered. It is true that not every town is as bad as Corpus Christi, Houston, Denver, Chicago, San Francisco, New York, or Los Angeles, but every city is being worked on and is under pressure, and every city is slipping ever closer into the federal grasp.Copyright © 2001 Joel M. Skousen
The Author: Joel M. Skousen (http://www.joelskousen.com) is a political scientist, commentator, and consultant residing in Orem, Utah. He is the author of four books, one on law and government, and three on special design innovation in security architecture. He is also publisher of WORLD AFFAIRS BRIEF. His review of Anne Morrow's book, A Case of Injustice, first appeared in the December 21, 2001 issue of that publication (http://www.centrexnews.com/columnists/skousen/2001/1221.html) and is reprinted here with permission. The opinions and conspiracy theories expressed by Skousen are his own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Dr. Bernofsky. For additional reviews of Anne Morrow's book, see http://www.palatinepress.com/pressrel.html.
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"Christmas is a day of meaning and traditions, a special day spent in the warm circle of family and friends." Margaret Thatcher
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas, just without the brisk winter mornings and dark evenings us Brits are more accustomed too. Tis the season to be jolly, drink hot chocolate in those seasonal red cups, eat mince pies, untangle strings of fairy lights and watch Love Actually and Elf on repeat. Christmas has snuck up on us once again so here's my top tips for festive activities to get the best out of Christmas in the capital.
Christmas Shopping
Swiss Christmas Market – The popular annual Swiss Christmas Market will be back in situ at the Beach Rotana courtyard from 6th – 9th December. The free four-day family event is just so lovely, the perfect place to get everyone in the yuletide mood. The mini Swiss Winter Winterland will showcase local artisans in cute wooden chalets selling their range of handicrafts, ornaments, gifts and festive gourmet treats including traditional raclette and fondue. With traditional Swiss folk songs and Christmas carols ringing in your ears indulge in some Lindt chocolates, decorate some gingerbread and get involved with the Christmas themed arts and crafts, don't forget to look out for santa too.
Timings: Wednesday 6th December 4pm – 9pm (opening ceremony at 6pm), Thursday 7th December 2pm – 10pm, Friday 8th and Saturday 9th December 11am – 10pm.
The Galleria Winter Wonderland – You might just see some (fake) snow in Abu Dhabi at The Galleria, Al Maryah Island when it's transformed into a Winter Wonderland from 14th – 26th December. The waterfront promenade will be awash with festive cheer, the winter village will house a number of stalls with a variety of gifts along with performers and musical performances. Santa and his elves will be receiving young visitors in the Grotto. Looking for a special gift for your loved one? Pop into the designer stores in the mall before trying one of the delicious hot chocolates at Godiva Chocolate Cafe.
Timings: Winter Wonderland from Thursday 14th – Tuesday 26th December (Santa's Grotto will be open from Thursday 7th until Sunday 24th December)
Christmas Market and Santa Chase – Experience the magic of Christmas at The Westin Abu Dhabi's Christmas market and santa chase on Friday 9th December. The hotel's lawn will be transformed into a Winter Wonderland packed with retailers as well as family activities. Sing Christmas Carols, build a gingerbread house and experience snow falling in the desert (seeing is believing).
Timing: 12 noon – 7pm
Tryano, Yas Mall – Tryano, the high-end department store in Yas Mall has gone all out on its holiday campaign with stunning festive window displays and beautiful bespoke oversized Nutcrackers. UAE artists have designed different nutcrackers with the colourful statues displayed throughout the store and under the oversized Christmas tree on the lower ground floor entrance lobby. Shop for unique gifts, designer bags and shoes as well as beauty, perfumes and a whole range of childrenswear.
Location: First and Ground Floor, Yas Mall, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Opening Hours: Weekdays 10am – 10pm, Weekends 10am – 12am
Don't forget the real Christmas tree for that true festive feel and pine aroma, my tree last year lasted well into the New Year despite the air conditioning and a cat who was intent on wrecking it at every opportunity. ACE Hardware on Yas Island will be once again stocking trees of all shapes and sizes as well as all manner of Christmas paraphernalia including a great assortment of lights, ornaments and decorations. Spinneys/Waitrose also stock real trees, Christmas blooms, cakes and confectionary. Head to good old Marks & Spencers (Yas Mall, Marina Mall, Dalma Mall and Fetouh Al Khair Centre) for some your traditional iced Christmas cake, mince pies and other British favourites. IKEA also has a fab selection of candles, baubles, wrapping paper and Swedish inspired decorations.
Christmas Tree Lightings
BU! – Kick your celebrations off early with BU! located on level 4 of The Hub at WTCAD. Lashings of mulled wine, christmas cocktails and festive entertainment are all on offer at BU!'s tree lighting on Sunday 3rd December from 7:30pm – 9:30pm.
Jumeirah Etihad Towers – Let the season's festivities begin at Jumeirah Etihad Towers on Wednesday 6th December with the lighting of their beautiful christmas tree in the Lobby lounge. Festive treats and refreshments will be served from 5:30pm, tree lighting 6pm.
Emirates Palace – The largest and most extravagant tree in the emirate will be lit up in all its glory at the Grand Tree-lighting Ceremony on Thursday 7th December 2017 from 7pm. Mulled wine, Christmas cookies and carols performed by the Brighton College Abu Dhabi Children's Choir are guaranteed to get everyone feeling festive.
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi – If you can't make it to the Emirates Palace have no fear as the St. Regis Saadiyat is also holding its Christmas Tree lighting ceremony on 7th December from 6:30pm. Carols from the choir and a visit from santa are guaranteed as the lobby lights up with Christmas cheer.
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr – Traditional eggnog, Christmas carols and a visit from santa will mark the occasion of the Fairmont's Tree lighting ceremony in the Lobby Lounge on 10th December from 6pm onwards
Festive Activities
Carols in the Desert – Sing carols by candlelight in the desert at this annual free community event organised by St. Andrew's Church. Follow the convoy of 4×4's (off road vehicles are not essential) into the dunes to join in with the festive sing-a-long on Friday 8th December. The event starts at 4pm, communal bbq fires will be lit at 5pm. Anyone planning to join needs to bring their own food, drinks, chairs, warm clothing, blankets, torch and singing voices. Click here for all the information.
Yas Marina – This festive season Yas Marina will be transformed into a winter wonderland with two weekends of family friendly events. On 8th and 9th December take the kids to see santa arriving by boat, meet the resident elves for arts, crafts and games, join in for storytime and post those all important letters to the man in red. Pick up some festive treats at the Winter Market on 15th & 16th December, join in the snow-ball fights and building of a snowman! Yes, you read that right build an actual snowman in the desert!
Tree Lighting Ceremony – 8th & 9th December 2pm to 6pm Winter Market Extravaganza – 15th & 16th December 2pm to 9pm (for more information about the market contact email@example.com)
There are many Festive Afternoon Teas throughout December. Try the Majlis Lobby Lounge at the Rosewood Abu Dhabi or sample the Christmas themed Afternoon Tea at Al Meylas in the Four Seasons Abu Dhabi. Festive Friday Brunches on 22nd December are perfect for those looking for extra pre-Christmas indulgence, for something a littledifferent try the Italian Andiamo Friday brunch at Roberto's in The Galleria.
Christmas Day
Four Seasons Abu Dhabi – Celebrate Christmas Day in style at Crust, the hotel's all-day fine dining restaurant located on the first floor, we went last year and are returning this year too. Smaller, so therefore more intimate Crust will be offering festive specials and entertainment to make for a memorable day. Thecarving and live cooking stations will be complemented by table service, a themed buffet, fabulous festive desserts and of course a visit from santa.
Christmas Day from 1pm – 5pm AED 300* with soft drinks, AED 400* with house beverages, AED 650* with champagne. (AED 125* children (6-12 years), AED 50* (5 years and under).
Emirates Palace – Let the Emirates Palace chefs cook you a sumptuous Christmas feast to remember at Le Vendome restaurant. Expect all your festive favourites and so much more at the grand buffet, extra special treats for the children and of course the customary visit from the man in red.
Christmas Day from 12:30pm – 3:30pm AED 450* inclusive of soft drinks, AED 600* inclusive of wine selection, AED 700* with free flowing bubbly
The St. Regis Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi – The festive brunch at Olea is an indulgent affair but it's busy so be prepared to queue. Live cooking stations offer variety of options from the traditional turkey to Mongolian, Indian, Italian and seafood choices. Leave room for the desserts and and the splendid selection of cheese and port, sit back and relax and enjoy the live entertainment on offer.
Christmas Day from 1pm – 4pm AED 250* Children's brunch with drinks (under 5's eat for free), AED 500* inclusive of soft beverages, AED 600* inclusive of house mixers, AED 700* with house mixers and Louis Roederer champagne.
BU! – Grab some family and friends to enjoy a four-hour Pan-Latin Christmas feast at BU!(this menu is aimed at 8 people or more but contact the restaurant for options for fewer guest). Expect turkey with all the trimmings including the obligatory brussel sprouts followed by apple crumble and chocolate cake accompanied by festive cocktails and drinks .
Christmas Day from 12:30pm – 4:30pm and 7pm – 10pm AED 375 per person for Christmas Feast with beverages, AED 275 per person for Christmas Feast only.
The Sportsman Arms – Famed for it's delicious roasts The Sportsman Arms is offering an American/Irish style Christmas brunch for those looking for a more relaxed affair. Starters of New England clam chowder, duck carpaccio are followed by a selection of mains including of course the traditional turkey (a whole turkey for your table can be ordered in advance) with all the trimmings. Don't expect to see Christmas pud on the menu though but instead there's a ginger and bourbon trifle, Boston Cream pie and mini mince pies. To see the full menu and vegetarian options click here.
Christmas Day from 12pm – 3pm or 5pm – 8pm AED 55/85 Children 5-8/8-14 (under 4's free), AED 195 with unlimited soft drinks, AED 295 with house beverages and AED 345 with prosecco.
Those looking to take some of the hassle out of celebrating at home can order roast turkey and all the trimmings from many of the hotels (we tried it successfully one year). Obviously this is just my personal guide and a mere snapshot into the hundreds of festive activities that are going on throughout Abu Dhabi during December.
Additional information and photos provided by the respective venues. All views are my own © Jo Brett 2017. All rights reserved. Featured image used courtesy of Pinterest and Swiss Christmas Market photo used with courtesy of www.swissbcuae.com
*All prices are subject to 10% service charge, 6% tourism fee and 4% municipality fee.

subset: commoncrawl


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Review by Maria del Carmen Amado
Manager/Editor, Westchester Hispano General
Immigrants who live in the U.S. often want to obtain American citizenship so they can be part of their new country. To do so, they must prepare for the U.S. citizenship test, and familiarize themselves with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) interview process.
To assist immigrants with this process, three experienced professionals from Pearson have developed a program called Future U.S. Citizens. This book/DVD program is specially designed to help immigrants who decide to apply for U.S. citizenship to pass the test. The program combines lessons with interactive practice and is aligned with the current process required by the USCIS. Continue reading


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We extend our love and sympathy to the family of Sgt. 1st Class Elliott J. Robbins who lost his life in the service of our country. We are deeply saddened to hear of his death, and his sacrifice will not be forgotten. His devotion to duty and the preservation of our freedom demonstrates the character and love he has for our country. We pray for the blessings of peace to be with his loved ones during this tender moment.
We also extend our love and sympathy to the family of Jared Reaves, a member of the Coast Guard, who passed away after a valiant fight with Leukemia. We honor him for protecting our coast lines and serving our country. Jared's parents, James and Marti Hammond, live in North Ogden.
During the month of August, we begin to see the waning of summer. The days are getting shorter and temperatures will begin to decline. Vacations will be primarily finished and, to the delight of parents, children will be going back to school. We will see fall approaching with leaves starting to color and show their brilliance. We are fortunate to live in an area where we have four seasons. We have certain likes and dislikes with each one, but it seems to bring a change in our daily routines that is refreshing. The area is pleasant and has its own scenic beauty.
If your birthday is in August, you are said to be ambitious, brave, and to have a daring attitude. You are an attention seeker, very generous, easy going, and strong in character. You are born to be successful, observant, creative, caring, and a loving faithful friend. In other words, you're awesome!Enjoy the remainder of Summer and upcoming Fall season!
Brent Chugg, Mayor


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Our 2-day course will equip you with all the necessary skills to obtain your job in IT within the financial services industry. We will teach you the roles and functions of the Investment Bank and how technology enables modern day trading.
For more information, download the full course agenda.PDF see course overview
Graham began his career as a trader at Smith Barney in 1996 before joining Citigroup as Managing Director of European trading and subsequently Unicredit as Global Head of Trading and Sales Trading. Graham now runs Trafalgar Capitals Pan European hedge fund, with whom Instructus are in partnership. Read more
Giles began his career on the Stock Exchange floor in 1986, trading for Nat-West markets. Following this he joined Deutsche Bank and then Citigroup where he was Managing Director responsible for Energy trading. Read more
Paul has over 30 years' experience in the UK, European and global equities markets as an investment analyst, equity salesman and senior manager. His career has included periods as Head of Institutional Clients at HSBC Investment Bank, COO of EMEA Equities at Citigroup and, latterly, as Deputy CEO of Oriel Securities, the independent UK equities stockbroker. Read more
Nick graduated from Edinburgh University in 2010 with a degree in business and finance. He joined Unicredits equity team later that year where he was fast tracked to trading his own sector at the age of 25. Read more
"Hugely useful workshop ahead of upcoming graduate interviews, gave a fantastic oversight of the industry and what employers look for in prospective applicants."- Student, Kings College London
Any questions you have about our courses or us please get in touch, or alternatively please call.


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National Storage Affiliates Trust (NSAT), a Maryland real estate investment trust (REIT) specializing in self-storage, has released its financial statement for the quarter that ended March 31, 2016, showing gains in key areas including core funds from operations (FFO), net operating income (NOI) and occupancy. "NSAT kicked off 2016 with robust first-quarter results," said Arlen Nordhagen, CEO.
The REIT reported core FFO per share of $0.25 during the first quarter, a 19 percent year-over-year increase. Its NOI was $26.4 million, a 42.9 percent gain compared to the $18.4 million it reported for the same period last year. Same-store NOI was $20.4 million, up 11.3 percent.
Same-store revenue was $30.5 million during the quarter, a 9.1 percent increase from a year ago, and driven by a gain of 440 basis points in average occupancy and a 3.9 percent bump in average annualized rental revenue per occupied square foot. Average occupancy was 89.2 percent as of Mach 31, up from 84.8 percent last year.
The company acquired 17 self-storage properties during the quarter for $89 million. The facilities are in six states and comprise about 1.1 million rentable square feet in approximately 7,600 units.
On Feb. 25, the company declared a quarterly dividend of $0.20 per common share, which was paid on March 30 to holders of record on March 15.
Headquartered in Greenwood, Colo., NSAT is a self-administered and -managed REIT focused on the acquisition, operation and ownership of self-storage properties within the top 100 U.S. Metropolitan Statistical Areas throughout the United States. The company has 315 self-storage facilities in 18 states comprising approximately 18.5 million net rentable square feet. It's owned by its affiliate operators, who are contributing their interests in their self-storage assets over the next few years as their current mortgage debt matures.


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A business runs on effective communication. We can supply and maintain all your communication needs supplying and maintain the latest smart phones, tablets and laptops. But our service does not stop there we can provde inhouse training of the equipment we supply. Either you can pop in or we'll come to you.
Please select which type of repair you would like (Explanation of types below), then select your device to start the TALKING MOBILES ENQUIRY WIZARD
Talking Mobiles for business
As a business account customer, you are assigned your own personal client manager who will take care of all your needs.
OH NO! Phone / Tablet won't work: Talking Mobiles can repair it.
If you're in Amersham, Chesham, Great Missenden, The Chalfonts, Gerrards Cross or surrounding areas, why not pop in.
We can repair all of todays gadgets that you have come to rely on, just ask. 01494 433555 or book an appointment.
See below
Our friendly, technically aware, staff are always only too happy to talk you through the use and care of your device.
We unlock all phones, just choose either a home visit, send and repair or a shop visit. We'll do the rest.
Repair at Home
How about we come to you. Just book a visit and we'll do the rest, at a place and time convenient to you
Send and Repair
Don't want a repair at home: then use our 'Send and Repair' service it's so straight forward
Why not pop in
We can, in most circumstances 'Repair while you wait'.
Enabling you to enjoy the delights of Amersham.
Don't worry about being out of touch we'll provide you with a phone whilst you wait
Not just phones:
Here are just a few examples
MP3 Players
Software issues
Car kit installations


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There are 3 basic questions you have to ask yourself when judging your own work:
Is my image technically sound?
As a photographer, it can be easy to feel subjective towards your images since you know how much effort it took you to get the shot. However, if you are into the stock photography business and will be using these images for stock, you will have to look at your creations with an honest and critical eye. These images will not just be for your viewing pleasure but will be used as a product that can garner cash. Buyers will be going over your images with the intent of buying rights to use them for whatever they need. They want it to be technically perfect, from the lighting to the composition. Images with obvious scratches or dust, over or underexposed areas, poor cropping or oversharpening, can quickly be passed on as buyers look for better quality images. In fact, most stock photo agencies have quality requirements that need to be passed for an image to be approved and uploaded in their site. These in-house reviewers will be quick to notice photographic weaknesses and can immediately reject your image before the buyer even has the chance to look at it. Be your own worst critic and upload only your best images. You might have some that can be redeemed with minor post processing, which is perfectly fine as long as the editing is flawless.
Does my photograph help promote or sell a product, concept or idea?
Aside from technical expertise, you must also show artistic expression. An image of a briefcase can be the most boring object but it can also be very appealing when creatively composed. Images that have substance, those that convey a strong message or idea, will have great chances of being used. Abstract ideas such as love, fun or stress can be presented visually in a photograph through the use of symbolism or perhaps by how the subject is composed. For instance, two people hugging can convey the emotion of love or intimacy (don't forget to include keywords!). Backgrounds, props and secondary subjects can provide context and subtext which you can use to their full advantage.
Are there a lot or only a few images available in the stock photography site?
The market of stock photography is often oversaturated with certain themes. For example, there are millions of images of flowers and pets, to the point that some stock photo agencies hint that members should refrain from uploading them. Check out the most popular photos in the stock site and find out what makes them so special. Is it spectacular lighting or composition or an old cliché concept that has been made fresh? Stock sites usually have forums where they sometimes update members on what images buyers are currently searching for. Also, do some keyword searching and see if they pull up a lot or only a handful of relevant images. Another thing to consider is to have a specialty, a theme or technique that you can excel in so you can make a name for yourself in that particular niche. Even if there are hundreds or thousands of images with the same theme as yours, if you have a good reputation of providing excellent images, you will be one of the first that buyers will go and maybe even patronize in the future.
Tags: analyze your photos, quality check stock photos, stock photos


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Because of the following Incident, Krishna's parents elevated the walls of their House, in their village.
Once Baby Krishna, who was no more than 5, gets up in the wee hours post Midnight, because of a dream.
In a state of Euphoria, he gets out of his bed and not disturbing anyone, goes out, climbs the not so tall boundary wall of the cottage and starts walking.
He was heading towards another Village which was about a Mile away.
He was neither in the waking state nor in the dreaming state.
And he Tottered deliriously, desperate to reach the point where he could SEE the object of his pursuit.
He reaches Her village and sees her Playing with her friends in the outskirts.
He stares blankly at her in that FIFTH state, neither known nor attainable.
The Child had found what he looked for and what made him cross the risky woods, All Alone.
Radha, who was around 8 at that point, had Matured a little and was no more a Kid.
She catches his sight and walks towards him.
Radha: You have come alone?
Krishna in a Voice which was Still Childish: Yes..
Radha: Why?
Krishna: They would not let me..
Radha: and why dont they let you?
Krishna: They think I am a child..
Radha: Are you not one?
Krishna: No. I am Big.. I know that in my dream. You also are there in my dream. We live in a faraway land where there are Lotuses all around us. There, We live together and I am taller than you. And we do everything together…
Radha Teasingly: What things?
The Shy kid looks away…
Radha: Do you Love me?
Krishna not looking in the Lady's Eyes: More than my Life….
Radha Picks the Child in her Arms as we would our Child and kisses his chubby cheeks which Turn Red like a Girl who Blushes.
Embarrassed, he Whispers: You are my Goddess of Beauty and Joy.


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There are many types of alcohol addicts in the world; from the 'obvious' public alcoholic to the high functioning addicts that often have powerful jobs and lead very organized lives. Despite this variety in outward appearance, they tend to share many of the same symptoms. All addicts have a physical dependency on alcohol and a mental compulsion to consume it. Drinking far in excess of what is healthy is always the case. The following signs are associated with an addiction:
- Severe withdrawal symptoms.
- Requiring more alcohol for the same effect.
- Drinking at inappropriate times, while driving for example.
- Needing alcohol to feel 'normal'.
Alcohol Abuse Or Addiction?
It can be hard to tell the difference between someone who abuses alcohol and someone addicted to alcohol. The major distinction is one of control and choice – an alcohol abuser often drinks far in excess of the healthy limits, yet maintains control over his or her choice to drink. An alcohol addict has no such ability; he or she is mentally and physically compelled to consume alcohol. The physical dependency will often cause the addict to experience withdrawal symptoms if no alcohol is consumed.
The Road To Abstinence.
Choosing to quit alcohol is a long road. But all roads have a beginning and with alcohol addiction this beginning is acceptance. Once one has accepted the problem, the healing can begin and a process of detoxification, rehabilitation and finally abstinence can occur.
Rehabilitation in the form of counseling is very often necessary for this newfound abstinence to be maintained. Here at Thriveworks Grand Rapids we work with addicts throughout this process to help keep them on track and maintain their abstinence.
We pride ourselves in the meticulous care and great respect we afford our clients – so please give us a call and embark on the road to recovery.


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This talk was recorded on January 9th 2017
For this episode we talked to Marco Plouffe, a Concept artist who worked for companies such as Bioware, THQ, Eidos, and freelanced for many game or cinematic studios, before he co-founded Keos Masons. Merco gives us some insight into the tools he uses, his process and shares with us some other interesting thoughts, so be sure to tune in and see what this episode has to offer.
Marco Plouffe > artstation.com/marcologue
The Game Workshop > thegameworkshop.net
IFCC > ifcc-croatia.com
Host: Marko Prpic Zets > instagram.com/zetsology
Video edit: Tom Paul > artstation.com/artist/tompaul
Music: Gramatik


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Institute of Information Systems & New Media
We are part of the Department of Information Systems and Operations Management at the Vienna University of Economics and Business.
In research, the emphasis of our Institute is the construction and analysis of infrastructures for software-based Information Systems. Areas of interest include Domain-Specific Language, Domain-Specific Modeling Languages, Evolutionary Information Systems and Technology Enhanced Learning. For further information on our topics in detail continue here.
Our Institute provides courses in Information Systems for the Study Programs of Information Systems as well as for the Business Administration Programs of the University. This includes introductory and advanced courses in Business Information Systems at the Bachelor's Level and specialized topics on management, engineering and development of Information Systems. For more information on our focus in teaching continue here.
Research & Development Projects
Duration: 2019-2021
Contact: Prof. Dr. Stefan Sobernig
Description: HybriDLUX (Hybrid Domain-specific Language User EXperience) is a three-year national research project on improving the ease-of-use of DSL and DSL-based software-development tooling in industry, funded by the Austrian research funding association (FFG) within the funding programme ICT of the Future (6th call 2017) of the Austrian Federal Ministry for Transport, Innovation and Technology (BMVIT), contract #867535. Four partner organisations contribute to HybriDLUX: AVL List GmbH, EclipseSource Services Vienna, TU Wien and WU Vienna. The project started in the first quarter of 2019 and is a continuation of the successful exploratory project DLUX (FFG #855465, ICT of the Future, 4th call).
Duration: 2017 - 2019
Contact: Dr. Stefan Sobernig
Description: DLUX (Domain-specific Language User EXperience) is a one-year national exploratory research project funded by the Austrian research funding association (FFG) within the funding programme ICT of the Future (4th call 2015) of the Austrian Federal Ministry for Transport, Innovation and Technology (BMVIT), contract #855465. Three partner organisations contribute to DLUX: AVL List GmbH, EclipseSource Services Vienna, and WU Vienna.
Duration: 2001-ongoing
Contact: Univ.-Prof. Dr. Gustaf Neumann
Description: The main objective of Learn@WU was to provide an electronic learning environment for students and faculty in order to support the University's mass courses. However, it was not the goal to introduce a new distance education program (and to attract even more students).
Duration: 1995-ongoing
Contact: Univ.-Prof. Dr. Gustaf Neumann
Description: OpenACS is a toolkit for building scalable, community-oriented web applications. OpenACS is the foundation for many products and websites, including the .LRN (pronounced "dot learn") e-learning platform.
Duration: 2011-ongoing
Contact: Univ.-Prof. Dr. Gustaf Neumann
Description: NX is a highly flexible, Tcl-based, object-oriented scripting language. It is a descendant of XOTcl and was designed based on 10 years of experience with XOTcl in projects containing several hundred thousand lines of code. While XOTcl was the first language designed to provide language support for design patterns and to provide a highly dynamic programming environment, the Next Scripting Framework (NSF) and NX add to these features support for language-oriented programming.
Duration: 2005-ongoing
Contact: Univ.-Prof. Dr. Gustaf Neumann
Description: NaviServer is a programmable web server written in C and Tcl. It offers many features for building custom web sites. The implementation is high performance, but the interface is easy to use, at both the C and Tcl level.
Duration: June 2019 - Ongoing
Contact: Dr.-Ing. Marjan Khobreh
Description: GamIng is a one-year project funded by the vice-rector for Academic Programs and Student Affairs, Vienna University of Business and Economics (WU) and conducted by the Institute of Information Systems and New Media.
Duration: 2018-ongoing
Contact: Soheil Human
Description: The Institute of Information Systems and New Media (WU Wien) conducts the interdisciplinary research project EXPEDiTE in collaboration with the Privacy and Sustainable Computing Lab. The full title of the project is "EXPloring opportunities and challenges for Emerging personal DaTa Ecosystems: Empowering humans in the age of the GDPR - A Roadmap for Austria". The Linked Data Lab of the Vienna University of Technology and OwnYourData are our partners in this project which is funded by the Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG). Soheil Human and Ben Wagner lead EXPEDiTE. Prof. Gustaf Neumann, prof. Axel Polleres, and prof. Sarah Spiekermann shape the advisory board of the project.
Duration: March 2020 to August 2022
Contact: Sabrina Kirrane
Description: The Policy Enabled Next geNeration Internet (PENNI) project will lay the foundations for a policy, trust and transparency enabled decentralised Next Generation Internet (NGI), that can support intelligent agents that act on behalf of humans. Our hypothesis being that decentralized applications that are able to understand constraints (in the form of goals, preferences, norms and usage restrictions) together with trust and transparency mechanisms will give citizens more control over how their data is utilised and will foster trustworthiness in NGI applications, such as intelligent agents.
Duration: September 2019 - August 2022
Contact: Michael S. Feurstein
Description: The SEPA360 project – Supporting Educators' Pedagogical Activities with 360°-video – is a European funded, Erasmus+ project for lectures, researchers and universities working, or looking to engage with the learning opportunities brought about by innovative 360 video cameras. The project aims to demonstrate how the effective use of 360 video can support and enhance the learning of university students by immersing them in real life video scenarios that they can manipulate to view as if they were actually there. The partners are developing a unique interactive platform for these video scenarios that will allow lecturers to embed hotspots, hyperlinks and other interactive media within the 360 video and will also track their student's interactions and movements through these scenarios.
Duration: October 2019 to September 2023
Contact: Sabrina Kirrane
Description: Knowledge graphs (KGs) are a flexible knowledge representation paradigm intended to allow knowledge to be consumed by humans and machines. Hence, they are regarded as a key enabler for a number of technologies including question answering, personal assistants and artificial intelligence across all sectors including Industry 4.0, personalized medicine, legislation, economics and more.
Duration: n/a
Contact: Fridolin Wild
Description: The main objective of iCamp is to create an open virtual learning environment for university students across Europe by connecting different open source learning systems and tools and provide interoperability amongst them. This new learning environment is a learner centred space where students and educators will work collaboratively on assignments across disciplines and across countries with a special focus on the integration of students and universities from the NMS and the AC. iCamp will offer students and educators both innovative and easy-to-use tools for collaboration and interaction as well as access to a broad variety of resources.
Duration: 2009-2014
Contact: Dr. Felix Mödritscher
Description: ROLE's cross- disciplinary innovations will deliver and test prototypes of high responsive TEL environments, offering breakthrough levels of effectiveness, flexibility, user-control and mass-individualisation.
Duration: 2005-2008
Contact: Dr. Stefan Sobernig
Description: Align learning with business processes in order to enable organisations to faster improve the competencies of their employees according to continuous changes of business requirements
Duration: 2000-2003
Contact: Univ.-Prof. Dr. Gustaf Neumann
Description: Create an innovative, trustable and scalable environment to allow the secure exchange of learning materials over the internet.
Duration: 2011-2013
Contact: DI MMag. Bernhard Hoisl
Description: Building on the concept of Domain-Specific Languages (DSLs) we specify security requirements in business processes on the modeling-level and automatically transform these models to the system-level
Duration: n/a
Contact: Fridolin Wild
Description: PROLEARN is a 'Network of Excellence' financed by the IST (Information Society Technology - Contract number 507310) programme of the European commission dealing with technology enhanced professional learning.
Duration: 2002-2005
Contact: Dr. Bernd Simon
Description: The interdisciplinary research team followed the vision of creating Smart Spaces for LearningTM. These are open environments that support learners in optimising their learning management. The mission of the ELENA project was to demonstrate the feasibility of Smart Spaces for LearningTM.
Duration: 2008-2011
Contact: Dr. Bernd Simon
Description: ICOPER will provide mechanisms to ensure European-wide user involvement, cooperation, and adoption of standards within a large community to support all phases of standardization.
Duration: n/a
Contact: Bernhard Hoisl
Description: The LTfLL project ('Language Technologies for Lifelong Learning') will create next-generation support and advice services to enhance individual and collaborative building of competences and knowledge creation in educational and organizational settings. The project makes extensive use of language technologies and cognitive models in the services.


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Don't wait for the lightbulb.
(Educate yourself for free.)
Join Us
Please join the Vital Incite team for a FREE podcast viewing every other month from 11-noon EST.
Nationally recognized subject matter experts from the health and pharmacy industry and top academic and research institutions will provide clarity amongst the chaos. Get answers to your most burning questions.
Each webinar will provide data-driven insights, accessible and unbiased information with actionable and scalable strategies. If you are looking to reduce medical and pharmacy spend while driving better health outcomes, these webinars are for you!


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These providers are environmentally and culturally responsible. They are continuously working to better their operations and enhance their sustainable practices and are working to become exemplary industry leaders.
Cheetal Resort
Satpura Tiger Reserve
Madhya Pradesh
- Activities / Special Features
- Accommodation
- Food
- Opening Times
- Location
- Wi-fi in common areas; air-conditioning; 24x7 supply of hot water; power back-up; eco-friendly swimming pool; indoor and outdoor play areas
Jeep safaris; jungle walks; boating; canoeing, evening buffer area jeep rides; bird watching
- Cheetal resort offers twelve fully furnished Premium AC rooms on its 3.5-acre campus. Each room has en-suite bathroom facilities, including flush toilets and an indoor shower
- Cheetal Resort offers a wide variety of authentic Indian cuisines. Custom-made menus for meals are also available.
- Lodge is closed from 01 July to 30 September every year during the monsoons
- Nearest airport – Bhopal (165km); Nagpur airport (328km)By rail/road - Bhopal (165km) via Hoshangabad, Babai, Semri to Madhai
- From £39 From price based on lowest category room per night. Enquire direct to get full range of pricing and to book.
- Swimming pool
- Wifi access
Further Information and Booking:
Visit Website Email Contact Contact Number
Satpura Tiger Reserve
After you get on a ferry on the Tawa dam, your gateway to this park, you will encounter rugged hills and steep mountains with sandstone peaks, narrow water filled gorges, deep ravines, dense sal and teak forests, as well as quiet coves and bays on which crocodiles bask and spotted deer drink. This is real explorers' country. With real vision, Satpura is set up differently to most other Tiger Reserves in India, allowing you a far more immersive nature experience within its bounds inclu Read more>>
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Sunday, July 3, 2011
SUPER fun saturday
Something about a 3 day weekend turns me into a completely different person. Typically, my weekends consist of one day of relaxation (aka: staying in my pj's until it's time to go back to bed), and one day of frantic shopping/running errands/manicures/laundry/ etc. But this Saturday...I popped up out of bed and was on the go for the entire day. It was SO fun! My best friend and I went to a designer thrift shop I'd been wanting to visit (got some reeeeally exciting stuff there), went to lunch at a place we had been dying to try, walked around a trendy area of town with some really cool shops, and even had time for some outfit pics! Last night we also went out for cocktails and a nice dinner with more friends, then to a fun club for dancing (pics from that evening in the next post!) Oh, the incredible power of that one extra weekend day..... :)
About the outfit - I must say that my goal here was to be at least a little patriotic considering that it is 4th of July weekend... but mostly I wanted to be cool and comfortable in the 95 degree heat. So, I lost a point on the patriotic side (unless you count that the background wall in these pics is RED brick, and my tank is WHITE and BLUE striped...? No? Okay I'll let that one go). But I definitely achieved the cool and comfy part. :) So there. We're even.
GAP Outlet tank, vest, shoes; GAP belt; Banana Republic shorts; gifted necklace; NY&Co earrings and bangle; Michael Kors watch; D&G aviators; boutique ring
Posted by Sarah at 1:20 PM
6 comments:
Love what you're wearing - casual and chic!ReplyDelete
like this! :)really cool blog! and post, and photos! love!ReplyDelete
http://thepileofstyle.blogspot.com/ <---MOI
I love this outfit. So classy and comfortable, just perfect for a sunny and hot Saturday. I enjoy so much reading your blog, the pics and clothes. Love it!ReplyDelete
Heey girl:) You look just stunning, i love your outfit:)ReplyDelete
LOVE this look! From the vest to the shorts, to those fab shoes! I have a hard time styling shorts, but this post has given me great ideas!ReplyDelete
Thanks for visiting my blog :)
Cool shoes.ReplyDelete
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Steel Barndominium in Soldotna, Alaska
Sunward Steel Buildings, Inc., was the proud manufacturer and supplier of this pre-engineered metal building in Soldotna, Alaska, in early June of 2018.
For a building to be suitable for life in Alaska's often-harsh climate, it needs to offer unrivaled strength and sturdiness, and this prefabricated steel barndominium does exactly that, offering optimum durability in the face of extreme temperatures, heavy snowfall and similar geographic construction concerns. Rugged, affordable and accommodating, the building serves double-duty as a residential home and a workshop, providing both a safe place to sleep and live and a secure, all-season space to perform work or store equipment.
Functional, Fashionable Places to Live & Work
An increasingly popular construction choice among those looking to combine living and working areas, pre-engineered metal barndominiums offer space for both in the same building, thereby eliminating long commutes and associated expenses. Ideal for buyers looking to operate businesses out of their homes as well as those looking to add space for hobbies and other interests to their residential properties, barndominiums effectively accomplish both objectives for typically far less than conventional construction methods.
Located on southern Alaska's Kenai Peninsula Borough, the city of Soldotna spans about 7 miles along the Kenai River. The community sits roughly 150 miles from Anchorage and about 45 miles west of Cooper Landing.
Considering purchasing a prefabricated steel building for use as a barndominium or something else in Alaska or another part of the country? Click here for a price quote.
Building Specifications
Combining the structural integrity of a steel shop or workspace with the aesthetic appeal of a modern, barn-style home, this metal barndominium stands 40'x60'x16' in size. It boasts an attractive, eye-catching Misty Gray exterior and a Burnished Slate-colored roof with a 2:12 pitch and matching trim, while Burnished Slate wainscoting further enhances its stylistic appeal.
Attractive, versatile and functional, the steel residential workspace has (4) framed openings, among them (2) 3070 openings enclosing (2) 3070 walk doors, (1) 8'x8' overhead opening enclosing (1) 8'x8' overhead door and (1) 12'x14' overhead opening enclosing (1) 12'x14' overhead door. To adhere to local building code requirements and enhance durability given Alaska's considerable seasonal snowfall and variable climate patterns, a 110-mph wind speed rating and a high, 49-psf snow load serve as supplemental barndominium features.


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The Seattle Seahawks opened the second half strong, forcing a St. Louis Rams punt. Charlie Whitehurst made a great play, avoiding the rush and finding Marshawn Lynch as an outlet to start the drive, only to see Lynch negate it all as he was stripped. The Rams recovered, took over possession and used a Josh Brown field goal to get within one in the third quarter, 7-6.
Whitehurst has been as good as can be expected, considering the situation, throwing for 150 yards and a touchdown in just over two quarters of play. Though he's been hesitant at times, Whitehurst has been able to make plays with his feet, rushing for 19 yards on four carries. It was his perfect first drive, 5-5 for 85 yards and a touchdown, that gave the Seahawks the early lead. That lead has held, even as the Rams continue to chip away.
A costly St. Louis holding call on a Steven Jackson run that got the Rams down near the goalline backed the offense up and allowed the Seahawks to hold. Rookie quarterback Sam Bradford threw the ball out of the end zone while evading the rush on third and goal, setting up Josh Brown's second field goal of the night.
In the third quarter, the Seahawks still lead the Rams, 7-6.


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2008 Internship Booklet - To download the pdf file click here
Scientific Abstract
Laura Aguirre, Urvashi Bhardwaj, Hyounggee Baek, Kit Lam
The Blood-brain barrier (BBB) serves to significantly restrict the passage of soluble and cellular elements between the brain and circulation.This poses a big challenge to deliver drugs and other chemicals to the brain cells.The goal of this research is to identify small molecules, or peptides, that can cross the blood brain barrier to deliver drugs or DNA to the brain. In order to accomplish this goal we used One Bead Two Compound combinatorial technology. We synthesized millions of random X6 and X10 peptide beads, with each 130µm hydrogel bilayer bead expressing unique peptide. We have used two peptides on one bead in our library.The first random peptide/targeting peptide were cleavable and the second peptide acts as a ligand that promotes cell binding to the bead.These libraries were screened with Chinese hamster Ovary (CHO) cell line as well as murine microvascular endothelial cells.The cleavable targeting peptide was tagged with Streptavidin Quantum Dot via biotin to obtain a fluorescent signal. Each cell line was screened with approximately 75,000 compounds to identify molecules/peptides that can penetrate brain microvascular endothelial cells as well as CHO cells.The beads with fluorescence in the cells were considered positive and were picked up and sequenced to identify the peptide that could enter in the cell.These peptides will be further tested on endothelial cells lined with another layer of brain cells to identify the peptides that can cross BBB.This in turn would help us to use these transporter peptides to deliver drugs and DNA across BBB.
Words cannot begin to explain how thankful I am to CBST for giving me the opportunity to be a part of this great summer internship. I had heard great things about it from previous interns who attended my community college, and I knew that I wanted to apply. Being able to work in Dr. Kit Lam's lab was truly a privilege. He is really interested in what we are learning and always wants to make sure that we have all the resources we need. My secondary mentor Urvashi was just amazing and really took the time to teach me all the lab skills that I needed to know for example how to work in the tissue culture room, which I had never done before. Not to mention that everyone else in the lab is more than friendly and willing to answer any of my questions, and take the time to show me where things are. Another great part of this internship is all the AMAZING interns that you get to meet. I have made some new friends that I know I will keep in touch with. The first week intensive was really fun and truly set the ground work for our group bonding. The Lake Tahoe retreat really allowed us to become a closer group thanks in big part to all the great activities and seminars that we got to attend. Having all of this hands on experience has only further encouraged me to continue my education and reach my ultimate goal of obtaining a Ph.D.
Scientific Abstract
Matthew Auyoung, Yongquan Qu, Neal Cheng, Ting Guo
Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) can be detected through conventional optical means and pose several advantages over optical labels and probes that are in current use. AuNPs exhibit strong, resonant light scattering in the visible and near-infrared range, facilitating their ease of visualization. By comparison, chemical fluorophores are much dimmer and have the drawback of photobleaching. Additionally, gold's low cytotoxicity enables AuNPs to be used in cell labeling applications. For example, conjugating antibodies to AuNPs allows for functionality similar to antibody-conjugated quantum dots, while circumventing the cell toxicity issues associated with semi-conductor quantum dots.The primary interest of this project is to investigate whether AuNPs situated within a cell can be detected and visualized. Light scattering by AuNPs is detectable when the particles are roughly 30-nm or greater in diameter. For this reason we will make use of 35-nm particles, prepared through the citrate reduction of HAuCl4.To prevent the aggregation of the AuNPs in solution, poly(ethylene) glycol (PEG) is added. Incubation with cells will allow for an uptake of AuNPs into cell cytoplasm, after which confocal microscopy will be employed to visualize the spatial distribution of the nanoparticles within the cells. As of now, synthesis of 35-nm AuNPs with minimal aggregation has been accomplished.Three sizes of PEG (400, 1K, and 2K Daltons) have been separately added to AuNPs and imaged with transmission electron microscopy (TEM) – the resulting micrographs suggest that an increase in PEG size accompanies a decrease in overall AuNP aggregation. Information regarding AuNP distribution in the cell environment will allow us to better assess the utility of gold nanoparticles as probes and labels.
My CBST summer internship has been highly rewarding and I would not hesitate to recommend the program to any of my peers. Being assigned a project and working closely with supportive mentors has afforded me valuable insight on both laboratory practice and the thought processes underlying research. The supplementary seminars and lectures have been diverse and engaging, broaching topics that range from bioimaging techniques to navigating career paths. A great feature of the CBST program has been the opportunity to network with students and experts in the field of biophotonics, which is now at the interface of many scientific disciplines - the diversity of viewpoints represented at such events as the Annual Retreat have been a real eye-opener on how collaborative science is conducted. Above all, the people that have made this internship possible are friendly and highly motivated, both staff members and students alike.
Scientific Abstract
Namrata Barbhaiya, Sheng Qin, Yan Wang, Yoshiko Maeda, Inderjeet Kaur, Pappanaicken Kumaresan, Kit S. Lam
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) responds poorly to chemotherapy and accounts for 31,000 deaths in U.S. every year. There is a need for more effective and less toxic treatment.The cell based biologically driven screening approach enables the use of solution phase combinatorial chemistry lead compounds to screen normal and cancerous cells rapidly and cost effectively.The aim of this study is to identify compounds that exhibit differential cytotoxic effect towards pancreatic cancer cells but not normal cells.To achieve this goal, several compounds were screened with stage specific pancreatic cancer cell lines (XPA1, XPA3, Panc1) and a normal pancreatic ductal cell line (HPNE).The cells were seeded the day before experiment to reach 30-50% confluence.The screening was done at three levels: primary, secondary and tertiary. Cells were screened with large number of combinatorial library compounds at 100µM for primary screening. At all levels, the cell lines were incubated for 72 hours and observed for change in cell morphology and cell density. Compounds LBL1, LBL3, LBL5, and LBL22 showed reduction in cell density at 100 µM and hence were screened at various concentrations from 0-100µM as secondary screening. After obtaining repetitive results in primary and secondary screening, cells were checked for proliferation using migration assay. Propidium iodide staining was then used to observe apoptosis. Moreover, the EC50 of these compounds was identified by MTT assay.The anti- tumor activity of the top four compounds will be evaluated in xenograft model in nude mice.
Personal Statement
The CBST summer internship was a wonderful experience. The first week intensive and other activities like the bowling night, and various workshops brought all the interns together as a group. It was a unique experience to work with interns not only from different academic backgrounds, but also from different walks of life with similar goals. Working in the lab was an invaluable experience. Dr. Kumar and Dr. Lam were always excited to answer my questions and guide me. Overall, it was a great learning experience and it was an honor to be a part of CBST again after the winter internship.
Scientific Abstract
Sabrina Bedell, Jared Townsend, and Kit Lam
This summer has been such an incredible experience—not to say that every moment was a happy one—many times I found my self frustrated, exasperated, and exhausted. But these times are just as valuable to me as the times I spent laughing and jumping for joy (literally, ask my lab mates!). One of the most important things I learned this summer is that just like life, science is not perfect. You often run into problems in the lab that you must work to overcome, and it may be hard to do, but the feeling of accomplishment is worth it. I gained so much more than just lab experience from this internship. The weekly workshops helped with different aspects of getting a job (and keeping it) like resumes, interviews, how to dress, and problem solving skills. We also had a panel of scientists from different backgrounds come in which was very informative and helped tremendously with that nagging question "what am I going to do for the rest of my life?" The friendships I've made with the other interns are invaluable to me. It is such a privilege to have spent my summer with this intelligent and fun group of people that I almost feel like I should have paid for the summer instead of getting paid (like summer camp). The CBST team is amazing and has done an awesome job making this internship successful. Everything is well-organized, balanced between work and play and interns are genuinely cared for. This experience enabled me to mature into a better person and I am grateful to all because of that.
REDUCING NEURONAL ACTIVATION FOLLOWING AN IN VITRO MODEL OFTRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY IN MIxED NEURONAL AND ASTROCYTE CULTURES
Bryan Brandon, Paul Mello, Gene Gurkoff, and Bruce G. Lyeth
I am very grateful to have been able to participate in this internship for two consecutive summers. While my first summer in the CBST internship exposed me to new things seemingly every day, my second year has really helped prepare me for the next step in my life. I was able to continue working in the same lab in the UC Davis Center of Neuroscience and this way I was able to immediately begin working on the project that I helped start the summer before. Even though I worked in the same lab last summer, I found myself constantly learning new things this summer. Ultimately, it is the people you work with that really determine how much you will enjoy your experience. That is what makes this internship so special. Everyone affiliated with CBST is enthusiastic, kind and helpful. They really want to make sure that you get the very most out of this experience, which is made evident through the fun retreat at Lake Tahoe and the numerous interesting and helpful workshops, presentations, and seminars that we participated in. This internship was an invaluable experience that helped me grow in many ways. The people I met and the knowledge I gained this summer will undoubtedly help me achieve both my professional and life goals. I feel both honored and privileged to have been able to participate in this program and I am certain that it will be an experience that I will never forget.
Scientific AbstractNON-INVASIVE MULTIMODAL SMALL ANIMAL IMAGING SYSTEM
David Brown, Jay Bhatt, Sebastian Wachsmann-Hogiu, Thomas Huser
Personal Statement
This summer was perfect. The CBST internship provided me with a link between my Physics training and my career aspirations that my own university couldn't give to me. Working in the labs was the "missing link" that my education needed to be complete. I've been to many medical school interviews since my internship, with many more to go, and everyone has been impressed with the amount of hands-on experience that CBST provides.
The Education Staff are all wonderful, and I sincerely appreciate their help in organizing all our activities and bringing us out in the first place. What an amazing experience! I am also grateful to my mentors and all the grad students that I worked with. Everyone at CBST is very willing to help the interns learn. I never felt abandoned or looked down upon, and I made a lot of true friends, both with my lab-mates and with the other interns. The activites were great, the classes were useful, the retreat was incredible, and the lab meetings helped me learn so much. It was wonderful! I'd recommend it to anyone. Come to Davis and spend a summer actually doing what you've been learning about in school. You won't regret it. Thanks, CBST!
Scientific Abstract
Clarissa Calderon-Meza, Susan Spiller
During my internship with CBST, I had one of the best times of my life. Not only did I learn about science, but also about interacting with other people and developing skills for networking. I did my internship at Mills College and my primary mentor was Dr. Susan Spiller. The research I was doing was so amazing to me because it involved creating a protein that could help a lot of people in the long run. Because my research interested me so much, I was very eager to learn as much as I could about my topic so I did a lot of outside research to better my understanding of it. I managed to learn a lot of terminology and facts about chemical processes, as well as learning how to work as a group since there were other two students working on the same subject with me. Patience and communication are definitely key things that will improve interactions with other people.
ULTRAFAST DYNAMICS OF THE CYANOBACTERIOCHROMETLR0924 TAKEN FROM THE CYANOBACTERIUM ThERMOSNEchOcOccuS ElONgaTES
Lucy Freer, Arther Thibert, Lu Zhao, and Delmar Larsen
Pump probe spectroscopy will be employed to characterize the photoisomerization
This summer internship has been a great experience for so many different reasons. The center involves studying a range of subject areas with many novel methods, offering something for every science major. I loved learning about the cutting edge techniques that are furthering our understanding of biological systems. The labs have so much to offer because even the methods of data collection are interesting and fun. There was never a point where I felt that what I was doing was boring or tedious. Everyone within the lab has been extremely helpful. Another benefit of the program is getting to attend the annual retreat. We were privileged to listen to lectures on the latest research on viruses and other subject areas and what role the CBST could potentially play in future research collaborations. In addition, the workshops and first week intensive provided extra exposure to what a career in science could truly mean. The panel of professionals was particularly eyeopening. It was truly liberating to hear them describe the career changes they have made when their current job didn't fit with their lifestyle, or they simply became bored. To top it all off, Dr. Corbacho did an excellent job organizing activities with the other interns and making the whole summer fun.
Scientific Abstract
Jamila Gittens, Caitlin McDonnell, Nisa Hatami, Brett Fite, Jennifer Phipps, and Laura Marcu
My internship through the Center for Biophotonics Science and Technology (CBST) was a great experience. Everything was stimulating, from the people to my everyday lab activities. I also obtained advanced knowledge about how to write an abstract and resume. I was able to assess how all the skills that I have learned in class are actually used on an everyday basis in the lab to solve problems that could potentially help millions of people. First week intensive truly prepared me for entering the laboratory, easily enabling me to overcome any uneasiness with working in an unfamiliar setting. I was able to work in the Genome and Biomedical Sciences Facility on the University of California at Davis (UCDavis) campus. My understanding of research processes was conceptually enhanced and I had a lot of hands on experience. The retreat opened my eyes to research projects being conducted in different laboratories all over the country. The weekly seminars were a great break from the lab and an excellent way to prepare us for some of our future endeavors.
Scientific Abstract
Brianna Gonzales, Chun-Yi Wu, and Kit S. Lam
Personal Statement
I think the best part of this internship was the people. All of the interns made the first week intensive a blast from the crazy picture challenge to the difficult laboratory training. Ana, Marco, and the rest of the people at CBST also made this program exciting for me due to their enthusiasm of science and teaching. I learned a lot from them and the workshops they put together. I feel I was able to obtain a better direction for my future education and career goals for grad school and entering industry.
Scientific Abstract
Margarita Gutierrez, Karen Kalanetra, Huguette Albrecht, Christine Hegedus, Christophe Morisseau, and David Rocke
Epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs), the products of cytochrome P450 epoxygenase,
Personal Statement
My summer internship spent at CBST was a great experience which helped me grow personally and professionally. Working in the lab and networking with scientists made this summer invaluable. One benefit, among many that I had in lab was the ability to learn first hand what it is like to do work independently on a project and overcome the obstacles that come in hand with it. This project was also beneficial because most of it involved biochemistry which is a major I want to pursue. As a community college student I feel that without this internship I would not have had the opportunity to do research in a field I am interested in. This internship also helped me to solidify my goals and guided me in the direction I needed to pursue graduate school. Networking with different scientists both during the internship and at the retreat was a great learning experience. The experiences they shared with me about their careers encouraged me to pursue and finish my own. I am very thankful to have been a participant in this program because it provided me with the foundation for my future career.
Scientific Abstract
Nadine Farah Hachouche, Stephanie Lane Njuguna, Alison Breen, Sunshine Dwojak, Abigail Jang, Amanda Fisher, Nathan Rockwell, J. Clark Lagarias, Elenor Castillo, and Susan C. Spiller
Phytochromes are photosensory proteins that absorb in the red and far- red region. In cyanobacteria, a protein with a GAF domain homologous to the phytochrome's GAF is necessary for the processes of binding of the tetrapyrrole chromophore, photoconversion, and signal transduction. Cyanobacterial proteins retaining the conserved GAF with two chromophore binding cysteines have been termed class II cyanobacteriochromes. These absorb blue or green light rather than red and far-red light in canonical phytochromes. We are examining truncated sequences from the Cph2a1 and Cph2a2 genes of Nostoc punctiforme.These cyanobacteria contain some class II GAF domain that may be engineered to produce a small, 160 to 180 amino acids, fluorescent protein, which can be used as a molecular probe. Previous research indicates that C499 of tlr0924 from Thermosynechococcus elongatus is a critical residue that covalently links the bilin chromophore in the blue absorbing form, but breaks in the green absorbing form. Mutation of the C499 to asparate (C499D) ablates blue/ green photoreversbility, resulting in the absorption of red light. By the use of standard molecular cloning techniques: protein purification, PCR of genomic DNA, restriction digest, ligation, transformation into E.coli cells, and protein expression, we sought to isolate the class II GAF domains of the Cph2a1 and Cph2a2 by PCR, followed by aspartate mutation in C499 homologous cysteine.This phytochrome engineering should provide a red fluorescent protein similar that was obtained by the mutation of tlr0924 of T.elongatus.
Personal Statement
The internship with CBST has been a rewarding experience. The whole staff that worked closely with the interns, especially Ana Corbacho, has been very supportive and encouraging throughout the nine weeks of the internship. The workshops that were held weekly provided the interns with skills that will only assist and enhance their abilities to finding other opportunities. The workshops included building a resume and a CV, writing an abstract, networking, interviewing, and so much more. I have personally found these workshops to fine-tune my skills in networking and interviewing by being more confident and aware of how I present myself to people. Furthermore, my skills in building a resume and a CV have dramatically improved by understanding the differences of each and how to tailor each one to a specific job of interest.
Scientific Abstract
Victoria Hamscho, Reem Yunis, Yongquan Qu, Andrew Vaughan, and Ting Guo
Radiation therapy is commonly used to treat brain tumors. Radiotherapy uses ionizing
Personal Statement
At first I did not know much about the internship. All I knew was that it would be an invaluable academic experience for me, for it would provide me with the opportunity to acquire different laboratory skills and learn about biophotonics in a team-based environment. After working at the laboratory for eight weeks, I am able to say that not only did I learn about biophotonics and its applications, but also about how to conduct and perform scientific research.
Scientific Abstract
APOLIPOPROTEIN A-1 INTERACTIONS WITH LIPID VESICLES ExAMINEDTHROUGH FLUORESCENCE CORRELATION SPECTROSCOPY
Harliv Hans, Samantha Fore, Thomas Huser
Personal Statement
Scientific Abstract
Alfredo Hernandez, Vu Tran, Lin Cao, Min Zhao
CBST internship was a great internship that, believe it or not, has changed my life. I expected to work in a lab all day with a protocol in my hand, and as a shy person I didn't really mind it. But on the contrary, CBST had plenty of activities for us to connect with the other interns and their helpful staff. The best thing about this program was that it completely submerged me into the scientific community. I learned about things I wasn't expecting to learn from an internship. In this internship I was given the opportunity to learn about scientists and researchers, the stereotypes were shattered. I also learned about the importance of networking. Near the end of the internship during the CBST annual retreat, I had the opportunity to meet researchers from around the world. I even had the privilege to hold a one -hour conversation with a German researcher who was working in Japan. I also had the opportunity to meet many post graduates and learn about their work. I'm also glad I met Ana Corbacho, our CBST director, a wonderful person I would like to thank for this wonderful experience.
Scientific Abstract
Nicole Hernandez, Monica Macal, Irina Grishina, and Satya Dandekar
As a CBST Summer Intern, I was fortunate enough to gain a firsthand account of modern-day scientific breakthroughs. Through the hands-on experience and by guidance from my mentors, the post-docs and grad students, I was able to witness the creative side of science that is very rarely exposed. New ideas were highly encouraged and simple linear thinking was dissuaded. From a professional standpoint, the Summer CBST Internship has given me the chance to see science on a different level. I worked in labs prior to this internship, but this experience was definitely on a completely different playing field. It is in these labs that the answers to some of science's most puzzling questions are answered through the development of new technology. To me, this internship was much more than just lab work. This internship was about developing the tools needed to be able to succeed in a scientific field and being part of an innovative scientific research community.
Scientific Abstract
Adrian Lam, Christopher W. Dunsby, Gregory Farwell, Yang Sun, Jesung Park, Nisa Hatami, Caitlin McDonnell, Laura Marcu
The medical applications of tissue autofluorescence to diagnose brain cancer, detect oral lesions or characterize atherosclerotic plaques have become popular due to their simple and inexpensive characteristics. However, the wavelengths used for excitation during the photodiagnostic process often lie in the UVA/UVB region and can cause mutagenic DNA damage in cells. With few studies focused toward measuring the extent of damage induced by these processes, our goal was to assess the sensitivities of hamster cheek, palate, tongue, and skin tissue to both pulsed and continuous wave lasers in order to find a threshold at which spectroscopic measurements could be taken safely. Each laser delivered 2-3 different doses (0.5, 1, 5 mJ/mm2) in vivo with fluorescence lifetime data obtained at specific times. Additional exposures were also performed to determine whether higher doses at shorter exposure times were more or less harmful than lower doses at longer exposure times. Biopsy samples taken immediately after and 24 hours after irradiation were fixed in formalin and immunohistochemically stained for p53, a protein transcribed in response to DNA damage, as well as H2A.X, a histone which undergoes phosphorylation upon double strand DNA breaks. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) was also used to mark 3'-OH terminal DNA ends to evaluate the fraction of apoptotic cells within each tissue section. Spectroscopic data showed that there was at max 15% photobleaching at radiant exposures less than 5 mJ/mm2. However, further steps are still required to match and analyze lifetime plots to immunohistochemical results.
"I play with lasers." Through perhaps a child's daydream as he fires lasers from a gun, it was my reality through fluorescence spectroscopy, an exciting internship I participated in by CBST this summer. From the beginning to end was a nonstop and tiring process, sometimes even mentally demanding, but it was an experience which school could never offer. The first week intensive I found to introduce and prepare all the interns to the laboratory setting in a creative, yet fun manner, allowing for a very friendly and warm atmosphere. However, as we all split up and went into our respective labs, I found my days to start up slowly, but the pace picked up rapidly and I was fortunate enough to participate in a collaborative experiment with physicians, a professor from London and my principal investigator. Watching minds from different disciplines work together was truly inspiring as I witnessed and took part in the entire process, from idea to actualization. In the future, I definitely plan to continue helping the Marcu Lab to facilitate the paper writing process and look forward to working on other exciting projects with amazing people. Overall, this internship coordinated by Ana through CBST has been absolutely phenomenal from laboratory experience to people met, providing an excellent place for growth as a researcher and person; my deepest thanks and appreciation goes out to CBST for what turned out to be a very memorable summer.
Scientific Abstract
Hanqing Li, Brian Reid, Min Zhao
Measuring the membrane potential across epithelium is an important and effective way of studying the mechanism of wound healing. Knowing the potential change across the membrane before and after infliction of a wound may have strong applications clinically. Our goal was to determine how the voltage, current, and resistance of a piece of epithelium or monolayer of cells changed before and after wound infliction. To accomplish this, we used a Ussing chamber to measure pieces of rat, and Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells before wound infliction and after. For the MDCK cells, the voltage and current of 60% of the experimental trials decreased after wound infliction, and resistance in 80% of the trials increased after wound infliction. For the rat skin, the voltage of 67% and current of 50% of the experimental trials increased, while the resistance of 67% of the trials decreased. From the above data we can see that the effects of wound infliction are different for cell monolayers and epithelium. Further studies on drug effects on wound healing hopefully will lead to more effective clinical treatment of epithelial wounds.
Personal Statement
I came into the CBST 2008 summer internship with eagerness and high hopes. Before this, I had the fortune to participate in the 2008 CBST winter internship for community college students. I had a great time in that internship and so when I learned I was accepted into the summer internship, I was esctatic.
Scientific Abstract
Molly McDevitt, Lisa Yee, Lenin Dominguez-Ramirez, and Henning Stahlberg
As the source of ATP for the cell, mitochondria are essential to cellular life.The
Personal Statement
My summer spent with CBST was nothing short of a wonderful experience. The first week intensive gave me a chance to get to know others in the internship and the subsequent weekly meetings gave me a chance to hear what others were doing. Being from Iowa, I was a little nervous but I ended up meeting some people that I know I will keep in touch with for many years to come.
Scientific Abstract
DETERMINING HOWTRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY AFFECTS THE ONTOGENY OF N-METHYL-D- ASPARTATE RECEPTOR (NMDAR) IN MIxED NEURONAL AND ASTROCYTIC CULTURES
Paul Mello, Bryan Brandon, Gene Gurkoff, Justin Beller, Bruce Lyeth.
The CBST Summer Internship was the most intellectually enriching experience of my life. The CBST staff carefully planned a first week program which facilitated our transition from the academic setting into the research environment. The first week intensive, the weekly seminars, and the CBST retreat provided unique intellectual and social experiences during which many bonds were created.
Scientific Abstract
Leah Meza, Harry Tseng, Wenwu Xiao, Nianhuan Yao, Kit S. Lam
In the United States, one out of eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. There is a need for the development of safe and effective diagnostic and therapeutic agents for breast cancer. Using "one-bead-one-compound" (OBOC) combinatorial library method, the Lam laboratory has previously identified several targeting cyclic peptides against breast cancer cell lines (MDA-MB-231). LXY1, a cyclic peptide with high binding specificity to 3 integrin was discovered. Using flow cytometry analysis, the binding affinity (Kd) of LXY1 to 3 integrin on MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells was determined to be approximately 0.4 µM. Based on the established structure-activity relationship (SAR) study, two highly focused cyclic peptide libraries were further designed, synthesized, and screened against MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells under stringent conditions. LXY3, a cyclic peptide with a high binding affinity (IC50=57 nM) was developed. We have designed and synthesized about 50 analogues of LXY3 in solution phase. The use of flow cytometry to determine binding affinity is slow. We therefore have developed a competitive adherence inhibition assay to measure the relative binding affinity (IC50) of these peptides to intact MDA-MB-231 cells. In this assay, serial dilution of soluble peptides were added to 96-well plates to inhibit the binding of MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells to immobilized LXY1 ligand. Using this method, the affinity of LXY4 to MDA-MB-231 was found to be ten times stronger than that of LXY3 (LXY3 IC50=7.1µM, LXY4 IC50=0.7µM). In this study, we have demonstrated that the competitive adherence inhibition assay is much more efficient than the flow cytometry assay; and with this method, we were able to select LXY4 as our candidate compound for further studies. The in vivo targeting characteristic of LXY4 peptide will be evaluated in a breast cancer xenograft mouse model with optical imaging. This will provide important information for its further development into a novel therapeutic agent for breast cancer.
Personal Statement
Coming back for a second year as a CBST intern has been one of the best decisions I have made. Returning to such a positive environment gave me excitement to spend my summer in the lab again. My mentor trusted me to handle my project independently since I had all the essential techniques down from last summer. Being a part of this research really made me feel like I was an important part of the project. Even though I was a second year intern, I was still constantly gaining new knowledge and experience in the lab. This year we developed a technique that was much more efficient than what I was using last summer. The CBST program has also given me opportunities to be a part of other future projects as well, and to be involved in the lab for the school year. Getting to know a whole new group of CBST interns has been one of the best parts. Everyone was very friendly and just as eager as the group from the previous year. The CBST staff made every seminar, retreat, and activity really enjoyable and will be in my memories forever. This made the whole experience one that I wish did not have to end.
Scientific Abstract
Emily J. Mills, Dan H. Bricarello, Atul N. Parikh
Personal Statement
Scientific Abstract
Brenda Montanez, Cynthia V. Pagba, Sebastian Wachsmann
Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) is a process that uses metallic nanoparticles
My summer internship experience at CBST greatly surpassed all of my research experiences in the past. This program is very well organized from the beginning with the first week intensive training to the very useful and interesting weekly seminars in constructing our own resume and CV to developing our own communication, interview, and networking skills. Ana Corbacho worked wonders all throughout these eight weeks in organizing group outings such as to the bowling alley, and not to mention the very popular retreat to Squaw Valley Resort in Lake Tahoe.
Scientific Abstract
Thien Huong, Chong-xian Pan
Seventy five percent of bladder cancer patients present with superficial growth that is easily
accessible and relatively isolated from the rest of human body. Intravesical therapy has
been used but the recurrence is still high.This project is to develop bladder cancer- specific
ligands for intracellular imaging and targeted therapy. We hypothesize that bladder cancer
cells have distinct cell surface molecules that can be targeted for diagnosis, imaging and
targeted therapy. We have screened high throughput combinatorial peptide libraries such as
one-bead one-compound method to identify bladder-cancer specific ligands.The binding
affinity of cancer-specific ligands will be further improved with optimization. Ligands with
high affinity and specificity will be conjugated with nanoparticle to be imaged by using MRI
scanner. So far, we have optimized several peptides and waited for the results of sequencing.
We have also synthesized the peptide and are preparing for MRI scanning. After that, we
will do some preclinical studies: tumor localization, cell capture in urine to confirm the
affinity and specificity of ligands.
Personal Statement
The summer internship with the Center for Biophotonics Science and Technology (CBST) gave me unforgettable memories. This is a great opportunity for me to understand how wonderful a research program can be. I learned numerous laboratory techniques and use those to perform independent experiments. Through the weekly meetings, I learned many skills from laboratory, biophotonic concepts to communication, interview, and presentation. The 3-day annual retreat meeting at Lake Tahoe resort is also a great chance for me to know what I can be in the future. If you want a combination of research and fun, I will say go for CBST summer internship. It's wonderful chance to connect classroom to reality.
Scientific Abstract
Ngabo S. Nzigira, Stacey S. Choi, Julia W. Evans, Rovert j. Zawadzki, John S. Werner
In vivo imaging technology offers significant advantages in understanding ocular disease
Personal Statement
This past summer I was given the tremendous opportunity by the Center for Biophotonics (CBST), to be an undergraduate summer intern. Personally I was given a great opportunity to reflect on where I want my life to go and what path I want to travel. I was very interested in a career in ocular health care prior to the summer research, and upon conveying this to the research coordinator she was able to place me in a lab that focused on vision science and retinal imaging. The opportunities provided to me while in this lab were invaluable I was able to learn about the visual system more in depth than I ever had, and be given an amazing opportunity to image patient's retinas myself. In addition I was given an opportunity to shadow ophthalmologists in both the clinic and in the surgical environment.
Scientific Abstract
MANIPULATION OFTHE PHOTOPRODUCTS OF PYRIDOxAL 5-'PHOSPHATE AND ITS SCHIFF BASES IN SOLUTION
Benjamin R. Perea, Tamara Restrepo, Melissa P. Hill, Delmar S. Larsen
Pyridoxal 5'-Phosphate (PLP), the biologically active form of vitamin B6, is a crucial
Personal Statement
Scientific Abstract
Tamara Restrepo, Melissa Hill, Delmar Larsen
This study was undertaken to understand the most fundamental interactions between light
Personal Statement
The Center for Biophotonics Science and Technology (CBST) summer 2008 internship was an extraordinary experience. The other interns and staff members were highly supportive and willing to share their motivation with the group. Moreover, the laboratory environment was welcoming, and the research team members were willing to answer questions and guide us throughout the project. At first, I hesitated to leave Los Angeles to move up north for the eight week duration of the program, not knowing that the learning experience and the many skills I gained would tremendously compensate for my effort. During the two months, we had group meetings at least once a week that aimed to prepare us for interviews and scientific presentations, among other skills that I highly enjoyed. The annual retreat at Lake Tahoe provided us with an opportunity to listen to the graduate oral presentations, as well as to admire the beautiful views of the lake. I highly recommend other students who want to experience interdisciplinary research to undertake this opportunity which will leave a sense of what it is to be a real scientist on an everyday basis. I am very thankful to CBST and each and everyone who made possible my participation in the summer internship. I have become a better educated individual, which in the long run is what matters the most, and will continue to grow from the skills I have acquired from this experience.
Scientific Abstract
THIN FILMTARGET DEVICE FOR ULTRAFAST LASER-DRIVEN x-RAY PRODUCTIONTO IMPROVE PERFORMANCE IN x-RAY ABSORPTION SPECTROSCOPY
George David Suarez, Ting Guo
Time resolved x-ray absorption spectroscopy provides information about the electronic
Personal Statement
My summer internship with CBST was nothing short of spectacular. Every aspect of the internship was rewarding and enjoyable. I am grateful for being afforded the opportunity to continue work on a project that is integral to my future career aspirations and that I truly enjoy. Additionally, CBST has enabled me to realize the power behind different bioimaging techniques and has opened the door to a whole new field that I hadn't previously considered.
The success of this program is rooted in the hardworking individuals who organized the seminars, activities, and retreat, all of which were educational and inspiring. I really enjoyed the professional development seminars, especially the panel of scientists. These scientists shared their personal stories about finding their niches in the scientific community and showed me the importance of networking in order to create various opportunities.
The best part of this internship was the interns. From the very beginning, I was anxious to meet the other students. All of the interns possessed genuine, unique and interesting personalities and close friendships developed.
Since the first day, I've felt honored to be affiliated with CBST, a group that is prestigious and forward thinking. I thank Dr. Ana Corbacho, Dr. Marco Molinaro, and the whole education team for making this a life-changing experience.
Scientific Abstract
TzeShin Yang, Matthew Jones, Stacey Harmer, Samantha Harris
The Earth rotates around its axis in a roughly 24 hour period causing light and temperature
Scientific Abstract
Lisa Yee, Lenin Dominguez-Ramirez, Molly McDevitt, and Henning Stahlberg
Mitochondria are responsible for providing 90% of the energy essential for cellular
Participating in the 2008 CBST Undergraduate Summer Internship has been one of the best summers I've ever had! Even though I was a little overwhelmed in the beginning, the first week intensives and the friendliness of Dr. Corbacho really gave me confidence to do my best in this internship. I initially assumed that I would just learn a lot of science this summer, but I actually got a lot more out of it. The summer interns and the graduate students/post-docs working in my lab were a gathering of individuals from very diverse backgrounds, and it allowed me learn more about different people's cultures and life experiences. This internship has exposed me to a lot of people and experiences that I would not normally encounter on my own such as meeting graduate students, medical doctors, professional researchers, or attending a scientific conference. Working on my project was a very enjoyable experience for me even though it wasn't exactly my area of