In a debate about whether to prohibit genetically altered babies — that is, any genetic modification, including life-saving alterations like mitochondrial replacement IVF — Farahany argued against such a ban.
Careless digital alterations, like Mr. Hajj's, are easier to spot.
Through the 1930s, he did a series of modest alterations, like many major architects.
There are pointless physical alterations, like the slinky cow at Union Square Park.
Much of the coverage has dwelled on Mr. Gore's small but symbolic personal alterations, like his new Palm Pilot and his switch from dark suits to earth tones.
And the impact will mean both sweeping changes in the merchandise on their shelves and subtler alterations, like how many pantyhose to keep in stock.
But permits for small-scale alterations — like moving a wall — rose 6 percent, to nearly 103,000.
Five years ago, that program was extended to self-certification of plans for new buildings and major building alterations (like converting a cast-iron warehouse in SoHo into residential lofts), both of which require a new certificate of occupancy.
"These alterations, like the re-ordering of chapters of a book, are easier to identify and detect in the blood than single-letter changes," said Bert Vogelstein, a co-author on the study.
