Parasites are interesting in many aspects and a serious health problem. Ideas about parasites came to Richard from a materials project in SEM microscopy counting parasitic phase particles, which will be described. In addition, garden experiences brought another aspect with some personal infestations. Personal health problems with viruses and infections will also be discussed with some mention of the relation of asthma to parasites. Finally, a somewhat humorous aspect of people as parasites will be discussed. Many micrographs will illustrate the "beasties" and many good website references will be given for more research.

Bio Sketch
Retired from Argonne National Laboratory in 2002, Richard does research out of his home office on many subjects related to science and microscopy. When at Argonne, research was done on corrosion for 25 years, liquid metals and sensors for about two years, tribology (not trilobites) and low friction coatings for about 12 years. In addition, he worked part-time the last 5 years on materials problems and setting up an advanced microscopy and micro-finishing lab at the Advanced Photon Source (APS). He has an interest in history and is vice president and past president of the Lemont Area Historical Society. He is also the computer administrator there, helping to digitize the archival photos. Richard is a grandfather now, with new opportunities for exploring.

Minutes of February 25, 2005 Meeting
PARASITES by Richard H. Lee of Gentle Impressions, Inc.

Members and guests enjoyed Chinese Food and an opportunity to mingle before the formal part of the evening’s program began.

At 7:30pm, President Bill Mikuska made a few announcements. First, the name of the SMSI’s 2005 Annual Award Recipient – Dr. Osamu Shimomura. Dr. Shimomura will be receiving the Emile Chamot Medal. His work in isolating fluorescent proteins from jellyfish led to the development of Fluorescence Microscopy.

Bill brought to our attention the fact that the August meeting would be held on a Sunday – August 21st. It will take place at the newly renovated Ball Helix Gardens in West Chicago.

Bill then introduced Rich Lee, who’s incentive for his presentation was somewhat personal, having dealt with bouts of Adenovirus (Herpes Simplex).

He discussed the classes of parasites, and had numerous photographs and photomicrographs to illustrate most.

Rich made us aware of a couple of resources worth looking at. The first being the National Microbial Pathogen Data Resources (NMPDR) at Argonne National Labs (funded by the University of Chicago), as well as the website: www.geocities.com/thesciencefiles/eyelash/creatures.html (That site has been moved here).

Interesting facts which Rich brought to our attention are that there appears to be a 75% increase in Asthma cases since 1980, and that Chicago is the “Asthma Capital of the Country.”

Respectfully Submitted,
Robert Kuksuk
Recording Secretary