I am sollciting some ideas from the group--especially from those who despise the acronym "FACS"! We are preparing to publish a technology paper on the use of 11-color flow cytometry; I've gotten tired of saying and writing "11-color flow cytometry" or even "11-color FACS". So I thought I'd come up with an acronym or name for the technology (encompassing >7 color flow cytometry). So far, my favorite is "ultracytometry" (cf: ultracentrifuge), a clear winner over "polycytometry" or "polychromatic cytometry" or even "MaxFACS". Unfortunately (or, perhaps, fortunately, depending on how well you know me), this name lends itself readily to be acronym'ed in suggestive manners. For example, Fluorescence (or Flow) UltraCytometry would be easily shortened to "FU", or even "FUC". This will lead to all sorts of fun. e.g., "I'm going down to the facility to FUC my cells." (Which naturally leads to "The Operator who shagged my samples.") At least we wouldn't have to worry about any manufacturer trademarking the acronym. And I bet Howard's already got the first several refrains forming in his musical mind... Please send me suggestions--in jest, in seriousness--that best combine the qualities of (1) meaningful, (2) easy to say, and (3) hopefully unique. If you come up with a winner, you'll get full credit (and, no, you don't get to be co-author). If enough good suggestions come in, I'll post them (anonymity guaranteed). mr
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