R 
"2. Give the method (s) by which the proposed DNA vector will be or has 
been constructed. Diagrams are very helpful and may be necessary for 
adequate understanding of the construct. Explain the advantages (and 
disadvantage (s ) , if appropriate) of your vectors, if other candidate 
vectors could be considered." 
Dr. Lacy suggested the second sentence of item B-2 be deleted. He thought a 
statement such as "[Use diagrams for clarity]" was adequate. Dr. Miller 
thought such a statement would imply the working group was only interested in 
diagrams. 
Dr. Vidaver feared Dr. Lacy's preposed statement was vague and the working 
group might receive diagrams which are not pertinent. Dr. Amtzen suggested 
the first and second sentences of item B-2 are clear and should not be modified. 
Dr. Vidaver agreed. Dr. McGarrity asked if the third sentence of item B-2 was 
acceptable . Dr. Gartland suggested the word "describe" be substituted for the 
word "explain" in the third sentence. The working group agreed that the lan- 
guage of items B-l and B-2 was adequate, but that the word "describe" would 
be substituted for the word "explain." 
The working group then considered the language of item B-3 which read as follows: 
"If microorganisms are used to introduce vectors or are vectors themselves, 
indicate how they compare with wild-type strains. If disabled pathogens 
are used to transmit the vector, indicate measures that will most likely 
prevent these microorganisms from regaining or acquiring pathogenic poten- 
tial. If the vector is likely to survive independently of the hosts, refer 
to this possibility, and provide any available data to assess the probabi- 
lity of transfer to likely organisms." 
Dr. Fedoroff asked if the definition of a vector should be included in this item. 
Dr. Gottesman felt the language of item B-3 was adequate. She pointed out that 
vectors for modifying plants would include the bacteria, Agrobacterium tumefaciens , 
and the virus. Cauliflower Mosaic Virus , and an inclusive definition of a vector 
could become very detailed. 
Dr. Clowes questioned the use of the word "measures." This usage suggested to 
him "physical measures to prevent spread." He thought intrinsic characteristics 
of the organisms should also be considered. He suggested the word "character- 
istics" be substituted for "measures." Dr. Sharpies suggested the word "factor" 
be used. Dr. Clcwes agreed. 
Dr. Sharpies questioned the use of the word "such" in the last sentence of item 
B-3. Dr. Amtzen suggested the word "likely" be substituted for "such." 
Dr. Lacy suggested the word "host" in the third sentence of item B-3 be qualified 
by the word "desired." The working group agreed to these proposed modifications. 
The working group then evaluated item B-4 of "Vectors and Methods of Introduc- 
tion" which reads as follows: 
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