manuscript reviews guidelines for reviewers of scientific manuscripts actual reviews...

Manuscript ReviewsManuscript ReviewsManuscript ReviewsManuscript ReviewsGuidelines for Reviewers Guidelines for Reviewers of Scientific Manuscriptsof Scientific Manuscripts

Actual ReviewsActual Reviews

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All slides, English review (problem set)All slides, English review (problem set)

Manuscript ReviewsManuscript ReviewsManuscript ReviewsManuscript Reviews

Guidelines for Reviewers Guidelines for Reviewers of Scientific Manuscriptsof Scientific Manuscripts

Reviewers serve two groupsReviewers serve two groupsReviewers serve two groupsReviewers serve two groups

• The editor and the journalThe editor and the journal • Make sure only Make sure only qualityquality work of work of significancesignificance

is publishedis published

• The author – to improve the paper, The author – to improve the paper, not not just to judge (constructive criticism)just to judge (constructive criticism)• Give helpful, honest feedback (criticize), Give helpful, honest feedback (criticize),

specific technical commentsspecific technical comments• Suggest improvements,Suggest improvements,

other interpretations of results,other interpretations of results,other experiments and approachesother experiments and approaches

Step 1 of review:Step 1 of review: Initial assessmentInitial assessmentStep 1 of review:Step 1 of review: Initial assessmentInitial assessment

• ScanScan the manuscript, take notesthe manuscript, take notes • Abstract, introduction, discussion/conclusionsAbstract, introduction, discussion/conclusions• Summarize the problem, approach, conclusionsSummarize the problem, approach, conclusions

• Ask yourself personal questions:Ask yourself personal questions:• Am I the right person to review this ms?Am I the right person to review this ms?• Is someone else better qualified?Is someone else better qualified?• Do I have a conflict of interest? Do I have a conflict of interest? • Do I know the author(s)?Do I know the author(s)?• Do I have time to review it well within the Do I have time to review it well within the

deadline?deadline?

Initial assessmentInitial assessmentInitial assessmentInitial assessment

• ContentContent• Is the subject suitable for the journal?Is the subject suitable for the journal?

• Scientific meritScientific merit• Is the manuscript worth publishing? Is the manuscript worth publishing? • Is the data high quality? Is it true?Is the data high quality? Is it true?

• Significance of resultsSignificance of results • New knowledge, understanding, technique?New knowledge, understanding, technique?• Is it interesting? Is it interesting? • Is it a significant contribution to the field? Is it a significant contribution to the field? • It should NOT be a simple extension or slight It should NOT be a simple extension or slight

modification of past research.modification of past research.

If you will not continue the review. . .If you will not continue the review. . .If you will not continue the review. . .If you will not continue the review. . .

• State your specific reasons (personal or State your specific reasons (personal or scientific)scientific)

• Reasons to reject for publication at this Reasons to reject for publication at this stage:stage:• Not suitable for journalNot suitable for journal• Work is poorly executed or not significant Work is poorly executed or not significant • Poor English, writing, or organizationPoor English, writing, or organization• PersonalPersonal

The reviewThe reviewThe reviewThe review

• Read the entire manuscript Read the entire manuscript thoroughlythoroughly

• Take detailed notes Take detailed notes –– they will be they will be the outline for your reviewthe outline for your review

Make an organized list of Make an organized list of specificspecific comments or recommendationscomments or recommendations

Make an organized list of Make an organized list of specificspecific comments or recommendationscomments or recommendations

1.1. Give location (page, paragraph, line)Give location (page, paragraph, line)

2.2. List by importance: most important firstList by importance: most important first

3.3. This sentence/paragraph/section would This sentence/paragraph/section would be stronger if. . .be stronger if. . .

4.4. This argument would be convincing if This argument would be convincing if you presented data. . .you presented data. . .

Look for…Look for…Look for…Look for…

•• PresentationPresentation

• A A story linestory line or thread to tie entire paper or thread to tie entire paper and each section togetherand each section together

• Clear, logical Clear, logical flow flow (movement): (movement): sentence to sentence, paragraph to sentence to sentence, paragraph to paragraph, section to sectionparagraph, section to section

• Correct amount of Correct amount of detaildetail• For experts in the fieldFor experts in the field• To reproduce the workTo reproduce the work

Presentation . . .Presentation . . .Presentation . . .Presentation . . .

• The research problemThe research problem

• Good approach to problemGood approach to problem• Reasonable interpretation of results, Reasonable interpretation of results,

without too much speculationwithout too much speculation• No technical errorsNo technical errors

• EnglishEnglish

• Appropriate languageAppropriate language• Correct use of terminologyCorrect use of terminology• Need work before acceptance? Need work before acceptance?

Recommend help!Recommend help!

TitleTitleTitleTitle

• AccurateAccurate description of main focusdescription of main focus• Should include most important aspects Should include most important aspects

(key words)(key words)• Organism(s)Organism(s)• TechniqueTechnique• ResultResult

• Can Can lengthlength be reduced? be reduced?• Should Should orderorder of words or phrasing be of words or phrasing be

changed? changed?


Cucumber mosaic virusCucumber mosaic virus 2b discriminates 2b discriminates small RNAssmall RNAs with different modes ofwith different modes of binding binding RNA complexesRNA complexes

Suppressor 2b ofSuppressor 2b of Cucumber mosaic virusCucumber mosaic virus discriminates small RNAs discriminates small RNAs byby differential differentiallyly bindingbinding RNA complexes RNA complexes

Cucumber mosaic virusCucumber mosaic virus 2b discriminates 2b discriminates small RNAs small RNAs with differentwith differentialial binding binding of of RNA complexes RNA complexes


Comparative analysis of gene expression of Comparative analysis of gene expression of thethe transcript profiles of tomato roots infected with transcript profiles of tomato roots infected with cyst nematode by cyst nematode by SAGESAGE

Comparative Comparative sserialerial aanalysis of nalysis of ggene ene eexpression (SAGE) of transcript profiles xpression (SAGE) of transcript profiles of tomato roots infected with cyst of tomato roots infected with cyst nematodenematode


Molecular cloning of genes Molecular cloning of genes encodingencoding endoglucanases RCE2 and RCE3 from endoglucanases RCE2 and RCE3 from Rhizopus oryzaeRhizopus oryzae and and discussion ofdiscussion of possible possible evolutionary process of the evolutionary process of the rcerce genes genes

Molecular cloning of genes Molecular cloning of genes forfor endoglucanases RCE2 and RCE3 from endoglucanases RCE2 and RCE3 from Rhizopus oryzaeRhizopus oryzae and possible evolution of and possible evolution of the the rcerce genes genes

AbstractAbstractAbstractAbstract

• Clearly outlines the main points of focusClearly outlines the main points of focus

• One or two succinct sentences on the One or two succinct sentences on the background of organisms, problem background of organisms, problem

• Approach to solving the problem, including a Approach to solving the problem, including a sentence or two about technique or method sentence or two about technique or method

• Results Results

• One or two sentences on significance of One or two sentences on significance of results in relation to research question, our results in relation to research question, our understanding of the problem, and/or potential understanding of the problem, and/or potential useuse

Problems with abstractsProblems with abstractsProblems with abstractsProblems with abstracts

• Not including the correct information (or Not including the correct information (or not enough, e.g., just a few sentences not enough, e.g., just a few sentences when author’s English is poor)when author’s English is poor)

• Including too much informationIncluding too much information • Not the place for an introductionNot the place for an introduction• Methods or results too detailedMethods or results too detailed

• Including the wrong informationIncluding the wrong information• Other studies or citations should be in the Other studies or citations should be in the

Introduction or DiscussionIntroduction or Discussion

Problems with abstractsProblems with abstractsProblems with abstractsProblems with abstractsAbstract for paper written in Japanese:Abstract for paper written in Japanese:

Web blight of European pear occurred in Okayama Web blight of European pear occurred in Okayama Pref., Japan, in July of 1989 and in October of Pref., Japan, in July of 1989 and in October of 1993. The pathogen obtained from infested leaves 1993. The pathogen obtained from infested leaves and sclerotia was identified as and sclerotia was identified as Rhizoctonia solaniRhizoctonia solani AG1-IB in respect to hyphal anastomosis and AG1-IB in respect to hyphal anastomosis and culture’s types. The common name of Web blight is culture’s types. The common name of Web blight is proposed for this new disease of European pear.proposed for this new disease of European pear.

1.1. Need to identify all symptoms (others are given in Need to identify all symptoms (others are given in captions), plant parts captions), plant parts

2.2. Rated disease development (table), not in abstractRated disease development (table), not in abstract3.3. No mention of Koch’s postulatesNo mention of Koch’s postulates

Problems with abstractsProblems with abstractsProblems with abstractsProblems with abstracts

Although isolation of an endoglucanase gene Although isolation of an endoglucanase gene from members of the subdivision Zygomycota from members of the subdivision Zygomycota had not been reportedhad not been reported,, in a previous study, wein a previous study, we cloned a new endoglucanase gene, cloned a new endoglucanase gene, designated designated the the rce1rce1 gene gene, from , from Rhizopus oryzaeRhizopus oryzae, a , a member of the subdivision Zygomycota. In this member of the subdivision Zygomycota. In this study, two endoglucanases. . . .study, two endoglucanases. . . .

We previouslyWe previously cloned a new endoglucanase cloned a new endoglucanase gene, gene, rce1rce1, from , from Rhizopus oryzaeRhizopus oryzae, , the firstthe first from a member of the subdivision from a member of the subdivision Zygomycota. Two endoglucanases. . . .Zygomycota. Two endoglucanases. . . .

IntroductionIntroductionIntroductionIntroduction

• Concise: only what is necessaryConcise: only what is necessary

• Explain problem in relation to past Explain problem in relation to past work by other researchers and work by other researchers and authors.authors.

• Compare and contrast past work.Compare and contrast past work.

• New, relevant referencesNew, relevant references

Problems with IntroductionProblems with IntroductionProblems with IntroductionProblems with Introduction

• Too much detail (perhaps more Too much detail (perhaps more suitable for Discussion), every paper suitable for Discussion), every paper cited (should not be a review of the cited (should not be a review of the literature)literature)

• Includes areas not directly related to Includes areas not directly related to research questionresearch question

• Relevant papers not includedRelevant papers not included

Materials and methodsMaterials and methodsMaterials and methodsMaterials and methods

• Was the work done well? Described Was the work done well? Described well?well?

• Are there flaws in methods, artifacts in Are there flaws in methods, artifacts in measurements?measurements?

• Are techniques appropriate to answer Are techniques appropriate to answer the questions, address the problem?the questions, address the problem?

• Manufacturers included?Manufacturers included?

Methods . . .Methods . . .Methods . . .Methods . . .

• Appropriate sample size, controls, Appropriate sample size, controls, and statistical tests?and statistical tests?

• Statistics included, explained well? Statistics included, explained well? Citations, programs included?Citations, programs included?

Problems with methodsProblems with methodsProblems with methodsProblems with methods

• Too much detail of routine methodsToo much detail of routine methods(e.g., size of flask)(e.g., size of flask)

• Do not need to include every Do not need to include every experiment: experiment:

if poorly designed or unexpected if poorly designed or unexpected results required a change in plansresults required a change in plans

• Equations and statistics – examine Equations and statistics – examine closely for accuracy, correct useclosely for accuracy, correct use

ResultsResultsResultsResults

• Findings and observationsFindings and observations

• Logical orderLogical order

• Tables and figuresTables and figures

• • Point out important features, relationshipsPoint out important features, relationships

• • Must be suitable for the type of dataMust be suitable for the type of data

Problems with resultsProblems with resultsProblems with resultsProblems with results

• Poor presentationPoor presentation• Not completeNot complete• Not logical orderNot logical order• Not specific — too generalNot specific — too general

• Irrelevant findingsIrrelevant findings• Are not related to research problem Are not related to research problem

• Data in tables, figures repeated in textData in tables, figures repeated in text• Unnecessary tables, figuresUnnecessary tables, figures

• Can a sentence or two explain the Can a sentence or two explain the illustrations?illustrations?


• Not specific — too generalNot specific — too general

Other isolates such as Other isolates such as Alternaria alternataAlternaria alternata and and CladosporiumCladosporium species including species including C. clado-C. clado-sporioidessporioides, , C. oxysporumC. oxysporum, , C. tenuissimumC. tenuissimum and and C. C. sphaerospermumsphaerospermum were detected were detected frequentlyfrequently from from both cultivars and all lots. Other isolates such as both cultivars and all lots. Other isolates such as R. stoloniferR. stolonifer, , FusariumFusarium spp. and spp. and M. verrucariaM. verrucaria were also detected were also detected at low frequenciesat low frequencies. The . The percentages of infected or infested seeds percentages of infected or infested seeds were were very highvery high on new lots (Table 3), but the fungal on new lots (Table 3), but the fungal flora of new lots flora of new lots was simplerwas simpler than that of old than that of old ones.ones.



The percentages of infected or infested The percentages of infected or infested seeds seeds were very highwere very high on new lots (Table on new lots (Table 3), but the fungal flora of new lots 3), but the fungal flora of new lots was was simplersimpler than that of old ones. than that of old ones. • Give percentagesGive percentages

• What does simpler mean?What does simpler mean?• Suggest: In new lots, ___% of the seeds were Suggest: In new lots, ___% of the seeds were

infected or infested, but fewer species were infected or infested, but fewer species were isolated.isolated.



In 2003, submerged application of simeconazole in In 2003, submerged application of simeconazole in paddy water on 15, 22, or 29 July showed paddy water on 15, 22, or 29 July showed potent potent efficacyefficacy against kernel smut (Table 3) The highest against kernel smut (Table 3) The highest efficacy was obtained by submerged application on efficacy was obtained by submerged application on 29 July. In 2004, the fungicide gave 29 July. In 2004, the fungicide gave excellent excellent controlcontrol against kernel smut in every test (Table 4). against kernel smut in every test (Table 4).

• What does What does potent efficacypotent efficacy mean? mean?• What is What is excellent controlexcellent control? “Excellent” may differ ? “Excellent” may differ

in percentage depending on the particular in percentage depending on the particular disease. disease. Give specific percentage, result with no Give specific percentage, result with no fungicide.fungicide.

Tables and FiguresTables and FiguresTables and FiguresTables and Figures

• Are all tables and figures present? Are all Are all tables and figures present? Are all mentioned in the text?mentioned in the text?• Note the first mention of every illustration.Note the first mention of every illustration.

• Evaluate presentation of dataEvaluate presentation of data• Is it clear and logical? Is it clear and logical?

• Necessary? Or better described in text only?Necessary? Or better described in text only?• Is data organized well in table?Is data organized well in table?

• • Are headings appropriate, placed correctly? Are headings appropriate, placed correctly?

• • Does each column (including the first on Does each column (including the first on left) have a heading? left) have a heading?

Tables and FiguresTables and FiguresTables and FiguresTables and Figures

• Clearly labeled?Clearly labeled?

• Key for symbols in figures?Key for symbols in figures?

• Consistent with text, other tables and Consistent with text, other tables and figures?figures?

Problems with Tables and FiguresProblems with Tables and FiguresProblems with Tables and FiguresProblems with Tables and Figures

• UnnecessaryUnnecessary• Fewer than 8 data points or many zeroes, etc. Fewer than 8 data points or many zeroes, etc.

• Incomplete captionsIncomplete captions• Unexplained abbreviationsUnexplained abbreviations• Tables

• No heading above 1st column on leftNo heading above 1st column on left• Headings with too many wordsHeadings with too many words

• FiguresFigures• Caption not worded properlyCaption not worded properly• Not explained clearlyNot explained clearly

Problems with Tables and FiguresProblems with Tables and FiguresProblems with Tables and FiguresProblems with Tables and Figures• Incomplete captionsIncomplete captions

Fig. 1. Fig. 1. Natural symptoms on leaf Natural symptoms on leaf of Europeanof Europeanpear. (identify specific symptom, use arrow)pear. (identify specific symptom, use arrow)

Fig. 1. Fig. 1. Leaf blightLeaf blight on European pear on European pear after natural infectionafter natural infection by by Rhizoctonia solaniRhizoctonia solani in an orchardin an orchard..

Fig. 5. Lesion of European pear leaf by Fig. 5. Lesion of European pear leaf by artificialartificial inoculation with inoculation with R. solaniR. solani..

Fig. 5. Lesion on European pear leaf Fig. 5. Lesion on European pear leaf __ days__ days after inoculation with after inoculation with Rhizoctonia solani. Rhizoctonia solani.

(Better to replace “inoculation” with type of(Better to replace “inoculation” with type ofinoculation, inoculum, etc.)inoculation, inoculum, etc.)

DiscussionDiscussionDiscussionDiscussion

• Should not repeat Results!Should not repeat Results!• Don’t need to repeat exact data; can Don’t need to repeat exact data; can

summarize trend, relevance, relationshipssummarize trend, relevance, relationships

• Should not repeat Introduction!Should not repeat Introduction!

• Logical order: usually by importanceLogical order: usually by importance

• Places results in context of past work, Places results in context of past work, compares/contrasts compares/contrasts

• Significance of results are explained well Significance of results are explained well and are justified by the data (that is, the and are justified by the data (that is, the results support the conclusions)results support the conclusions)

Problems with DiscussionProblems with DiscussionProblems with DiscussionProblems with Discussion

• Repeats the Results!Repeats the Results!

• Repeats the Introduction!Repeats the Introduction! Exact words! Exact words!

• Plagiarism??!!Plagiarism??!!• Look for unusual wording, perfect EnglishLook for unusual wording, perfect English

• Too much speculation, not enough evidenceToo much speculation, not enough evidence

• Too much hedging (not willing to commit to a Too much hedging (not willing to commit to a conclusion): It may possibly be… that it could conclusion): It may possibly be… that it could perhaps…perhaps…

Literature CitedLiterature CitedLiterature CitedLiterature Cited

• Be concerned if most are the author’s Be concerned if most are the author’s own publications or none are recent own publications or none are recent (within 2-3 yrs)(within 2-3 yrs)

• Is journal style used?Is journal style used?

Summary of review…Summary of review…Summary of review…Summary of review…

• Note:Note:• Other interpretations of dataOther interpretations of data• Errors in reasoningErrors in reasoning• Point out problems with clarityPoint out problems with clarity• Where more explanation is neededWhere more explanation is needed

• Suggest different wordingSuggest different wording

Summary of review. . .Summary of review. . .Summary of review. . .Summary of review. . .

• Be helpfulBe helpful

• Do not say only: Do not say only: Publish without change…Publish without change…too specialized…do not publishtoo specialized…do not publish

• Explain problemsExplain problems

• Make Make specificspecific suggestions for suggestions for improvement or revision, additional improvement or revision, additional experiments or data, treatment of experiments or data, treatment of data, statistical testsdata, statistical tests

Summary of review. . .Summary of review. . .Summary of review. . .Summary of review. . .

• Confirm (or not):Confirm (or not):• Excellent coverage of literature and Excellent coverage of literature and

interpretation of results and available interpretation of results and available datadata

• Identify related studiesIdentify related studies• Suggest methods, further experimentsSuggest methods, further experiments

• Suggest methods for better Suggest methods for better approachesapproaches

• Identify missed opportunitiesIdentify missed opportunities

Time for questionsTime for questions

TablesTablesTablesTables

• Use to present specific data, relationships; to Use to present specific data, relationships; to make exact comparisons, to illustrate/make a make exact comparisons, to illustrate/make a point or points (idea or ideas), easier than point or points (idea or ideas), easier than describing it in the text.describing it in the text.

• If there are <8 data points presented in a If there are <8 data points presented in a table, then the data can probably be table, then the data can probably be described more efficiently in the text rather described more efficiently in the text rather than in a table.than in a table.

• Text of article refers to main points of table, Text of article refers to main points of table, does not repeat all contents.does not repeat all contents.

Table organizationTable organizationTable organizationTable organization

• Title briefly describes the experiment, data Title briefly describes the experiment, data given, organisms and location if appropriate, given, organisms and location if appropriate, and gives enough detail for the table to be and gives enough detail for the table to be understood without referring to rest of the understood without referring to rest of the article.article.

• The table should contain like items or compare The table should contain like items or compare like items. like items.

• Comparisons should be down columns, not Comparisons should be down columns, not across lines (across rows) — it is easier to read across lines (across rows) — it is easier to read and compare down, rather than across.and compare down, rather than across.

Table Table organizationorganizationTable Table organizationorganization

• Use headings and subheadings to organize the Use headings and subheadings to organize the data, clearly and identify the data in each data, clearly and identify the data in each column. column.

• Horizontal headingsHorizontal headings of columns should identify of columns should identify the dependent variables (the dependent variables (measured variablemeasured variable). ). Items below the Items below the leftmost headingleftmost heading (stub head) (stub head) identify the identify the independent variablesindependent variables for the for the horizontal rows.horizontal rows.

• Every column must have a heading. Include the Every column must have a heading. Include the unit of measure in the heading (not after the data unit of measure in the heading (not after the data within the table): within the table):

Width (mm)Width (mm)

• Group items logically, include necessary Group items logically, include necessary controls and statisticscontrols and statistics..

• Define all nonstandard abbreviations and Define all nonstandard abbreviations and symbols (in caption or footnotes).symbols (in caption or footnotes).

• Label Label footnotes with superscript lettersfootnotes with superscript letters (not numbers, which can be mistaken for (not numbers, which can be mistaken for exponents in the table), from left to right, exponents in the table), from left to right, top to bottom.top to bottom.

Table organizationTable organization

Tables: Critical pointsTables: Critical pointsTables: Critical pointsTables: Critical points

• Verify all dataVerify all data! Check accuracy, consistency ! Check accuracy, consistency with text and other tables and figures (including with text and other tables and figures (including labels, units of measure, abbreviations, and labels, units of measure, abbreviations, and fonts).fonts).

• Can a readerCan a reader understand the table without understand the table without reading the article? The table must be able to reading the article? The table must be able to ““stand alonestand alone.”.”

• Simplify Simplify as much as possible. as much as possible.

• Proofread, proofread, proofreadProofread, proofread, proofread..

Figure checklistFigure checklistFigure checklistFigure checklistFigure text and axis labelsFigure text and axis labels

__ __ Between 6 and 10 ptBetween 6 and 10 pt

__ Lightface type recommended (i.e., plain, not __ Lightface type recommended (i.e., plain, not boldface)boldface)

__ Consistent size in all figures at printed size of __ Consistent size in all figures at printed size of figurefigure

__ First letter of labels capped (or consistent __ First letter of labels capped (or consistent capitalization style)capitalization style)

Figure checklistFigure checklistFigure checklistFigure checklist

__ __ Units in parentheses at end of axis labels: Units in parentheses at end of axis labels: Length (mm)Length (mm)

__ Units written the same way as in text__ Units written the same way as in text

__ Multiplier dots (not bullet ) used between __ Multiplier dots (not bullet ) used between multiple units in numerator and in multiple units in numerator and in denominator: (mmol·mdenominator: (mmol·m–2–2·s·s–1–1))

__ Axis label c. 0.2 cm from units on axis, no __ Axis label c. 0.2 cm from units on axis, no more than 0.5 cm; more than 0.5 cm; xx- and - and yy-axis labels -axis labels equidistant from axesequidistant from axes

Figure ChecklistFigure ChecklistFigure ChecklistFigure Checklist

__ All appropriate words and letters in italics __ All appropriate words and letters in italics (e.g., genus, species, section, 1-letter (e.g., genus, species, section, 1-letter constants and variables)constants and variables)

__ Space before and after all operation signs __ Space before and after all operation signs (e.g., =, +) with equations and definitions, use (e.g., =, +) with equations and definitions, use en dash (width of two hyphens) for minus en dash (width of two hyphens) for minus sign.sign.

__ Make sure all abbreviations are consistent __ Make sure all abbreviations are consistent from figure to figure.from figure to figure.


Figure PanelsFigure Panels

__ Named with capital letters, preferably inside __ Named with capital letters, preferably inside each paneleach panel

__ Less than 0.5 cm between vertically aligned __ Less than 0.5 cm between vertically aligned panelspanels

Multipanel FiguresMultipanel Figures

__ All panels for one figure placed in one file __ All panels for one figure placed in one file as they should appear in printas they should appear in print

__ Each panel labeled with letter (capital __ Each panel labeled with letter (capital preferred), consistently preferred), consistently

labeled labeled


Micrographs and PhotographsMicrographs and Photographs

__ __ Scale bar on each image, defined in captionScale bar on each image, defined in caption

__ Type of micrograph, optical system, stains, __ Type of micrograph, optical system, stains, etc. defined in captionetc. defined in caption

Rules (= lines)Rules (= lines)

__ __ Not less than 1 pt, not more than 2 ptNot less than 1 pt, not more than 2 pt

__ Scale bar present in each micrograph__ Scale bar present in each micrograph


Remember to Check File ResolutionRemember to Check File Resolution (required (required resolution may vary with journal) resolution may vary with journal)

__ __ Line art: 1200 dpiLine art: 1200 dpi

__ Grayscale, halftones: 300 dpi__ Grayscale, halftones: 300 dpi

__ Color: 300 dpi__ Color: 300 dpi

__ Combination line art and halftone (or color)*: __ Combination line art and halftone (or color)*: 600 dpi 600 dpi

*e.g., micrographs with text or bars*e.g., micrographs with text or bars

Remember . . .Remember . . .Remember . . .Remember . . .

The abstract, figures, and tablesThe abstract, figures, and tables

are read more often thanare read more often than

any other part of a paper.any other part of a paper.

They must be good! They must be good!

They should be perfect.They should be perfect.

Time for questionsTime for questions

American Journal of BotanyAmerican Journal of Botany

Guidelines for ReviewersGuidelines for Reviewers

AJB guidelines for reviewersAJB guidelines for reviewersAJB guidelines for reviewersAJB guidelines for reviewers

• Answer yes or no:Answer yes or no:

• Introduction states significant problemIntroduction states significant problem

• Background information adequateBackground information adequate

• Materials, methods are appropriate and Materials, methods are appropriate and adequateadequate

• Results are accurate, clear, substantialResults are accurate, clear, substantial

• Discussion synthesizes results, reaches Discussion synthesizes results, reaches conclusionconclusion

• Research a significant contributionResearch a significant contribution

AJB guidelines for reviewersAJB guidelines for reviewersAJB guidelines for reviewersAJB guidelines for reviewers

• Give specific comments on:Give specific comments on:

• AbstractAbstract

• IntroductionIntroduction

• Materials and methodsMaterials and methods

• ResultsResults

• DiscussionDiscussion

• Literature CitedLiterature Cited

• Illustrations/TablesIllustrations/Tables

AJB review examplesAJB review examplesAJB review examplesAJB review examples

Manuscript 1. Example of good reviewManuscript 1. Example of good review

Manuscript 2. Two reviews by different Manuscript 2. Two reviews by different reviewers. reviewers.

Note the difference in the two reviews and the Note the difference in the two reviews and the fact that I could not understand the English.fact that I could not understand the English.

Note the difference between these two reviews Note the difference between these two reviews and the review for manuscript 1.and the review for manuscript 1.

English ReviewEnglish Review

Common problemsCommon problemsCommon problemsCommon problems

NO:NO: Plasmid was transformed into Plasmid was transformed into E. coliE. coli. .

Yes:Yes: E. coliE. coli was transformed with plasmid. was transformed with plasmid.

Plasmid used to transform Plasmid used to transform E. coliE. coli..

Host–parasite interactionsHost–parasite interactionsCompatible or incompatibleCompatible or incompatible

PathogensPathogensVirulent or avirulentVirulent or avirulent

HostsHostsSusceptible or resistantSusceptible or resistant

TreatmentTreatment ofof thethe plant [receiver] plant [receiver] vs.vs.TreatmentTreatment withwith the fungicidethe fungicide [agent] [agent]

Restrictive vs. nonrestrictive clauses Restrictive vs. nonrestrictive clauses Restrictive vs. nonrestrictive clauses Restrictive vs. nonrestrictive clauses

1. Three cosmid clones 1. Three cosmid clones whichwhich include this include this 1599-bp sequence were obtained.1599-bp sequence were obtained.

1. Three cosmid clones 1. Three cosmid clones thatthat include this 1599- include this 1599-bp sequence were obtained.bp sequence were obtained.

2. The species 2. The species whichwhich have not been included have not been included are found mostly within the range of are found mostly within the range of P.P. pterocarpumpterocarpum. .

2. The species 2. The species thatthat have not been included have not been included are found mostly within the range of are found mostly within the range of P.P. pterocarpumpterocarpum..

Restrictive vs. nonrestrictiveRestrictive vs. nonrestrictiveRestrictive vs. nonrestrictiveRestrictive vs. nonrestrictive

3. The parsimony analysis of the large 3. The parsimony analysis of the large combined matrix exceeded the combined matrix exceeded the maximum number of trees maximum number of trees whichwhich could could be held by the computer.be held by the computer.

3. The parsimony analysis of the large 3. The parsimony analysis of the large combined matrix exceeded the combined matrix exceeded the maximum number of trees maximum number of trees thatthat could could be held by the computer.be held by the computer.


4. However, there can be large shifts in 4. However, there can be large shifts in the position of genera or entire clades the position of genera or entire clades whichwhich are equivocally placed in the are equivocally placed in the parsimony analyses.parsimony analyses.

4. However, there can be large shifts in 4. However, there can be large shifts in the position of genera or entire clades the position of genera or entire clades thatthat are equivocally placed in the are equivocally placed in the parsimony analyses.parsimony analyses.


5. One major category of impact occurs when 5. One major category of impact occurs when toxic species are filtered from the water as toxic species are filtered from the water as food by shellfish food by shellfish whichwhich then accumulate the then accumulate the algal toxins to levels algal toxins to levels whichwhich can be lethal to can be lethal to humans or other consumers.humans or other consumers.

5. One major category of impact occurs when 5. One major category of impact occurs when toxic species are filtered from the water as toxic species are filtered from the water as food by shellfishfood by shellfish, which, which then accumulate the then accumulate the algal toxins to levels algal toxins to levels thatthat can be lethal to can be lethal to humans or other consumers.humans or other consumers.


6. The dependence in these analyses on chloroplast 6. The dependence in these analyses on chloroplast data may cause some difficulties in confirming the data may cause some difficulties in confirming the relationships in the American species of relationships in the American species of ParkinsoniaParkinsonia thatthat have shown marked hybridization. have shown marked hybridization.

6. Two ways, depending on situation: If all American 6. Two ways, depending on situation: If all American species of species of ParkinsoniaParkinsonia have marked hybridization, have marked hybridization, then use “which” or “that” with a comma preceding then use “which” or “that” with a comma preceding (“American species of (“American species of ParkinsoniaParkinsonia, which”; , which”; nonrestrictive clause). If only some of the American nonrestrictive clause). If only some of the American species have marked hybridization, then use “that” species have marked hybridization, then use “that” without a comma (“American species of without a comma (“American species of ParkinsoniaParkinsonia that”; restrictive clause). [Note that “shown” was that”; restrictive clause). [Note that “shown” was deleted from “have shown marked”; it was deleted from “have shown marked”; it was unnecessary.]unnecessary.]


7. One major category of impact occurs when 7. One major category of impact occurs when toxic species are filtered from the water as toxic species are filtered from the water as food by shellfishfood by shellfish, which, which then accumulate the then accumulate the algal toxins to levelsalgal toxins to levels, which, which can be lethal to can be lethal to humans or other consumers.humans or other consumers.

7. One major category of impact occurs when 7. One major category of impact occurs when toxic species are filtered from the water as toxic species are filtered from the water as food by shellfishfood by shellfish, which, which then accumulate the then accumulate the algal toxins to levels algal toxins to levels thatthat can be lethal to can be lethal to humans or other consumers.humans or other consumers.


8. Within 8. Within ParkinsoniaParkinsonia, the African species form a , the African species form a well-supported clade well-supported clade thatthat is recovered in every is recovered in every analysis, with the East African species, analysis, with the East African species, P. P. anacantha, P. raimondoianacantha, P. raimondoi, and , and P. scioanaP. scioana, , being more closely related to each other than being more closely related to each other than to the southern African species, to the southern African species, P. africanaP. africana..

8. It is correct as is, because there may be other 8. It is correct as is, because there may be other well-support clades well-support clades thatthat are not recovered in are not recovered in every analysis (that is, they are well-supported every analysis (that is, they are well-supported in only some analyses.in only some analyses.


9. . . . eight genera plus one undescribed genus 9. . . . eight genera plus one undescribed genus form a core form a core PeltophorumPeltophorum group group, which, which is is referred to here as the referred to here as the PeltophorumPeltophorum group group sensu stricto.sensu stricto.

9. Correct as is, not a restrictive clause. . . eight 9. Correct as is, not a restrictive clause. . . eight genera plus one undescribed genus form a genera plus one undescribed genus form a core core PeltophorumPeltophorum group group, which, which is referred to is referred to here as the here as the PeltophorumPeltophorum group sensu stricto. group sensu stricto.


10. . . . however, the African species form a 10. . . . however, the African species form a clade with clade with P. microphyllyaP. microphyllya which is sister to all which is sister to all the American species. Or: however, the the American species. Or: however, the African species form a clade with African species form a clade with P.P. microphyllyamicrophyllya that is sister to all the American that is sister to all the American species.species.

10. . . . ; however, the African species form a 10. . . . ; however, the African species form a clade with clade with P. microphyllyaP. microphyllya, which is sister to all , which is sister to all the American species. Or: . . . however, the the American species. Or: . . . however, the African species form a clade with African species form a clade with P.P. microphyllyamicrophyllya, that is sister to all the American , that is sister to all the American species.species.

As/BecauseAs/BecauseAs/BecauseAs/Because

If you can replace “as” with “because,” then you If you can replace “as” with “because,” then you must use “because.” (As you read “as,” “as” can must use “because.” (As you read “as,” “as” can be be read as “while” or “as this event occurred, be be read as “while” or “as this event occurred, so did another.” so did another.”

1.1. As As the interaction between the slope position and the interaction between the slope position and the covariable was never significant, the results the covariable was never significant, the results of ANCOVA without an interaction term are of ANCOVA without an interaction term are presented.presented.

1. 1. BecauseBecause the interaction between the slope the interaction between the slope position and the covariable was never position and the covariable was never significant, the results of ANCOVA without an significant, the results of ANCOVA without an interaction term are presented.interaction term are presented.

As/BecauseAs/BecauseAs/BecauseAs/Because

2. Genets of sawgrass are hemisynchronous 2. Genets of sawgrass are hemisynchronous (Lloyd and Webb, 1986(Lloyd and Webb, 1986), as), as inflorescences on inflorescences on different clonally produced ramets do not different clonally produced ramets do not flower synchronously. flower synchronously.

2. Genets of sawgrass are hemisynchronous 2. Genets of sawgrass are hemisynchronous (Lloyd and Webb, 1986)(Lloyd and Webb, 1986);; inflorescences on inflorescences on different clonally produced ramets do not different clonally produced ramets do not flower synchronously. (“Because” can also be flower synchronously. (“Because” can also be used here, but without the semicolon.)used here, but without the semicolon.)

RespectivelyRespectivelyRespectivelyRespectively

1. 1. The asymptotic maximum heights of The asymptotic maximum heights of F. F. crenatacrenata were estimated to be were estimated to be 12.9 and 21.6 m12.9 and 21.6 m in the ridge and valley subplotsin the ridge and valley subplots, , respectivelyrespectively..

1. The asymptotic maximum heights of 1. The asymptotic maximum heights of F. F. crenatacrenata were estimated to be 12.9 m in the were estimated to be 12.9 m in the ridge and 21.6 m in the valley subplots.ridge and 21.6 m in the valley subplots.

(Try not the use of “respectively.”)(Try not the use of “respectively.”)

Repeating: to, by, ofRepeating: to, by, ofRepeating: to, by, ofRepeating: to, by, of

1. Sexual reproduction in clonal plants can 1. Sexual reproduction in clonal plants can help help toto avoid inbreeding depression and avoid inbreeding depression and maintain genetic diversity in populations maintain genetic diversity in populations through repeated recruitment events.through repeated recruitment events.

1. Sexual reproduction in clonal plants can 1. Sexual reproduction in clonal plants can help help toto avoid inbreeding depression and avoid inbreeding depression and toto maintain genetic diversity in maintain genetic diversity in populations through repeated populations through repeated recruitment events.recruitment events.


1. A critical position for 1. A critical position for OedopodiumOedopodium corroborates corroborates the results the results ofof Newton et al. (2000) from Newton et al. (2000) from combined analyses of morphology and four combined analyses of morphology and four plastid DNA regions and Goffinet et al. (2001) plastid DNA regions and Goffinet et al. (2001) based on a taxon-extensive analysis of plastid based on a taxon-extensive analysis of plastid rps4rps4 sequences. sequences.

1. A critical position for 1. A critical position for OedopodiumOedopodium corroborates corroborates the results the results ofof Newton et al. (2000) from Newton et al. (2000) from combined analyses of morphology and four combined analyses of morphology and four plastid DNA regions and plastid DNA regions and ofof Goffinet et al. (2001) Goffinet et al. (2001) based on a taxon-extensive analysis of plastid based on a taxon-extensive analysis of plastid rps4rps4 sequences. sequences.


3. 3. SchizolobiumSchizolobium is distinguished from the is distinguished from the other members of the other members of the PeltophorumPeltophorum group s.s. group s.s. byby the lack of stipules and the the lack of stipules and the fruit morphology and dehiscence type.fruit morphology and dehiscence type.

3. 3. SchizolobiumSchizolobium is distinguished from the is distinguished from the other members of the other members of the PeltophorumPeltophorum group s.s. group s.s. byby the lack of stipules and the lack of stipules and byby the fruit morphology and dehiscence the fruit morphology and dehiscence type.type.

Noun–verb agreementNoun–verb agreementNoun–verb agreementNoun–verb agreement

1. 1. SamplingSampling allele diversity at the DNA sequence allele diversity at the DNA sequence level for these gene loci level for these gene loci offeroffer the possibility to the possibility to investigate allele coalescence in a set of investigate allele coalescence in a set of reproductively isolated and divergent species reproductively isolated and divergent species characterized by high genetic diversity and characterized by high genetic diversity and reputed large effective population sizes.reputed large effective population sizes.

1. 1. SamplingSampling allele diversity at the DNA sequence allele diversity at the DNA sequence level for these gene loci level for these gene loci offersoffers the possibility to the possibility to investigate allele coalescence in a set of investigate allele coalescence in a set of reproductively isolated and divergent species reproductively isolated and divergent species characterized by high genetic diversity and characterized by high genetic diversity and reputed large effective population sizes.reputed large effective population sizes.


2. Recent studies have shown that 2. Recent studies have shown that thethe relative relative importanceimportance of light availability and tree height of light availability and tree height to structural traits to structural traits differdiffer across different across different organizational levels within speciesorganizational levels within species

2. Recent studies have shown that the relative 2. Recent studies have shown that the relative importance of light availability and tree height importance of light availability and tree height to structural traits to structural traits differsdiffers across different across different organizational levels within speciesorganizational levels within species


3. In the 3. In the fernfern, , Anogramma chaeophyllaAnogramma chaeophylla, , which also which also havehave complex leaf complex leaf morphology, KNOX1 is not excluded morphology, KNOX1 is not excluded from developing leaf primordia.from developing leaf primordia.

3. In the 3. In the fern fern Anogramma chaeophyllaAnogramma chaeophylla, , which also which also hashas complex leaf morphology, complex leaf morphology, KNOX1 is not excluded from developing KNOX1 is not excluded from developing leaf primordia.leaf primordia.


4. Molecular expression 4. Molecular expression patternspatterns derived from a derived from a broad phylogenetic sampling of metazoans broad phylogenetic sampling of metazoans hashas been the key to breaking some of the been the key to breaking some of the basic code that underlies animal evolutionary basic code that underlies animal evolutionary developmental biology. developmental biology.

4. Molecular expression 4. Molecular expression patternspatterns derived from a derived from a broad phylogenetic sampling of metazoans broad phylogenetic sampling of metazoans havehave been the key to breaking some of the been the key to breaking some of the basic code that underlies animal evolutionary basic code that underlies animal evolutionary developmental biology. developmental biology.

Noun–verb agreementNoun–verb agreementNoun–verb agreementNoun–verb agreement5. The 5. The Altingiaceae isAltingiaceae is a family of c. 15 tree species with an a family of c. 15 tree species with an excellent fossil record and excellent fossil record and areare an important model for an important model for understanding Northern Hemisphere biogeography. In understanding Northern Hemisphere biogeography. In natural populations, there are very few experimental natural populations, there are very few experimental demonstrations that demonstrations that the number orthe number or sizesize of seeds produced of seeds produced by plants by plants areare actually reduced in the absence of carbon actually reduced in the absence of carbon assimilation by reproductive structures. assimilation by reproductive structures.

5. The important model refers to what? The 5. The important model refers to what? The AltingiaceaeAltingiaceae areare a family of c. 15 tree species with an excellent fossil a family of c. 15 tree species with an excellent fossil record and record and areare an important model for understanding an important model for understanding Northern Hemisphere biogeography. In natural populations, Northern Hemisphere biogeography. In natural populations, there are very few experimental demonstrations that there are very few experimental demonstrations that the the number or sizenumber or size of seeds produced by plants of seeds produced by plants isis actually actually reduced in the absence of carbon assimilation by reduced in the absence of carbon assimilation by reproductive structures. [By convention, a family is treated reproductive structures. [By convention, a family is treated as plural, and a plural verb is used. In this case, the family as plural, and a plural verb is used. In this case, the family was first treated as singular, then as plural.]was first treated as singular, then as plural.]


6. The 6. The importanceimportance of the morphology of the of the morphology of the receptive structure, its movement in wind, and receptive structure, its movement in wind, and pollen morphology for abiotic pollination pollen morphology for abiotic pollination suggestsuggest that traits that function together to that traits that function together to influence pollination should be highly influence pollination should be highly correlated in wind-pollinated plants.correlated in wind-pollinated plants.

6. The 6. The importanceimportance of the morphology of the of the morphology of the receptive structure, its movement in wind, and receptive structure, its movement in wind, and pollen morphology for abiotic pollination pollen morphology for abiotic pollination suggestssuggests that traits that function together to that traits that function together to influence pollination should be highly influence pollination should be highly correlated in wind-pollinated plants.correlated in wind-pollinated plants.


7. Comparative 7. Comparative volume and concentrationvolume and concentration of of nectar nectar isis shown in Table 3. shown in Table 3.

7. Comparative 7. Comparative volume and concentrationvolume and concentration of of nectar nectar areare shown in Table 3. shown in Table 3.

8. The 8. The increaseincrease in in EEstrstr toward the base toward the base and lackand lack of secondary growth in of secondary growth in DesmoncusDesmoncus isis not at all not at all consistent with such strategies.consistent with such strategies.

8. The 8. The increaseincrease in in EEstrstr toward the base and toward the base and lacklack of secondary growth in of secondary growth in DesmoncusDesmoncus areare not at not at all consistent with such strategies.all consistent with such strategies.

Noun–pronoun agreementNoun–pronoun agreementNoun–pronoun agreementNoun–pronoun agreement

The severity of The severity of thisthis fitness disadvantage fitness disadvantagess may may depend on environmental conditions. depend on environmental conditions.

Use either: Use either: thesethese disadvantage disadvantagess OR OR thisthis disadvantagdisadvantagee [match the number of the [match the number of the pronoun to the noun]pronoun to the noun]

Ambiguous pronoun referenceAmbiguous pronoun referenceAmbiguous pronoun referenceAmbiguous pronoun reference

The tip of the germ tubes changed into appressorial The tip of the germ tubes changed into appressorial structures only when structures only when theythey reached a ridge on the reached a ridge on the root surface. [Which plural noun does “they” refer root surface. [Which plural noun does “they” refer to?]to?]

““They reached a ridge” refers to “the tip” or to “germ They reached a ridge” refers to “the tip” or to “germ tubes” (not “structures”): The tip of the germ tubes tubes” (not “structures”): The tip of the germ tubes differentiated into an appressorial structure only differentiated into an appressorial structure only when they reached a ridge on the root surface. when they reached a ridge on the root surface. OR Only when the germ tube reached a ridge on OR Only when the germ tube reached a ridge on the root surface did the tip of the germ tube the root surface did the tip of the germ tube differentiate into an appressorial structure.differentiate into an appressorial structure.

Em dashEm dashEm dashEm dash

1. In both genera 1. In both genera leaf colleters are absentleaf colleters are absent, , the anther the anther base is strongly sagittatebase is strongly sagittate, and , and the retinacle is protuberant the retinacle is protuberant with no detectable concave regionwith no detectable concave region, all character states, all character states that are at odds with the synapomorphies that support the that are at odds with the synapomorphies that support the Mesechiteae clade.Mesechiteae clade.

1. In both genera, leaf colleters are absent, the anther 1. In both genera, leaf colleters are absent, the anther base is strongly sagittate, and the retinacle is protuberant base is strongly sagittate, and the retinacle is protuberant with no detectable concave regionwith no detectable concave region—all character states—all character states that are at odds with the synapomorphies that support the that are at odds with the synapomorphies that support the Mesechiteae clade. [Use the em dash to signal the end of Mesechiteae clade. [Use the em dash to signal the end of the series; “all character states” refers back to the list of the series; “all character states” refers back to the list of traits.]traits.]

Em dashEm dashEm dashEm dash

2. The three spruce species sampled, the North 2. The three spruce species sampled, the North American and sympatric American and sympatric Picea glaucaPicea glauca and and P. P. marianamariana, and the North Eurasian , and the North Eurasian P. abiesP. abies are are dominant in their ecosystem with large natural dominant in their ecosystem with large natural ranges.ranges.

2. The 2. The threethree spruce species sampled spruce species sampled——the North the North American, sympatric American, sympatric Picea glaucaPicea glauca and and P. marianaP. mariana and the North Eurasian and the North Eurasian P. abiesP. abies——are dominant in are dominant in their ecosystems with large natural ranges. [For their ecosystems with large natural ranges. [For clarity: now we know that the list does not include clarity: now we know that the list does not include 3 spruce spp + 3 spruce spp + P. glauca, marianaP. glauca, mariana and and abiesabies.] .] [also note comma deleted after [also note comma deleted after marianamariana]]

HyphenHyphenHyphenHyphen

1.1. In such a slowlyIn such a slowly--evolving genus as evolving genus as PiceaPicea, achieving reproductive isolation is , achieving reproductive isolation is generally indicative of large divergence.generally indicative of large divergence.

1. In such a 1. In such a slowly evolvingslowly evolving genus as genus as PiceaPicea, , achieving reproductive isolation is achieving reproductive isolation is generally indicative of large divergence.generally indicative of large divergence.

HyphenHyphenHyphenHyphen

2. They also represent divergent taxa in terms of morphology, 2. They also represent divergent taxa in terms of morphology, with deep phylogenetic branching in the genus, as shown with deep phylogenetic branching in the genus, as shown by phylogenies based on paternallyby phylogenies based on paternally--inherited cpDNA.inherited cpDNA.

2. They also represent divergent taxa in terms of morphology, 2. They also represent divergent taxa in terms of morphology, with deep phylogenetic branching in the genus, as shown with deep phylogenetic branching in the genus, as shown by phylogenies based on by phylogenies based on paternally inheritedpaternally inherited cpDNA. cpDNA.

3. Interestingly, nonsynonymous substitutions are 3. Interestingly, nonsynonymous substitutions are significantly elevated within the putative significantly elevated within the putative DNA DNA bindingbinding domaindomain of one of the Lamiales of one of the Lamiales FLOFLO paralogs. paralogs.

3. Interestingly, nonsynonymous substitutions are 3. Interestingly, nonsynonymous substitutions are significantly elevated within the putative significantly elevated within the putative DNA-bindingDNA-binding domain of one of the Lamiales domain of one of the Lamiales FLOFLO paralogs. paralogs.

Commas and semicolonsCommas and semicolonsCommas and semicolonsCommas and semicolons

1. Allele genealogies did not match species phylogenies and 1. Allele genealogies did not match species phylogenies and species lineages were not reciprocally monophyletic. species lineages were not reciprocally monophyletic.

1. Allele 1. Allele genealogiesgenealogies did not match species did not match species phylogeniesphylogenies,, and and speciesspecies lineages lineages werewere not reciprocally monophyletic. not reciprocally monophyletic.

2. Our cloning experiments and phylogenetic analyses of 2. Our cloning experiments and phylogenetic analyses of UFOUFO, , FIMFIM, and , and UFO/FIMUFO/FIM-like homologs -like homologs includingincluding the eight the eight UFO/FIMUFO/FIM-like genes we identified among Lamiales taxa -like genes we identified among Lamiales taxa provideprovide little convincing evidence regarding copy number little convincing evidence regarding copy number in Lamiales.in Lamiales.

2. Our cloning experiments and phylogenetic analyses of 2. Our cloning experiments and phylogenetic analyses of UFOUFO, , FIMFIM, and , and UFO/FIMUFO/FIM-like homologs-like homologs,, including the eight including the eight UFO/FIMUFO/FIM-like genes we identified among Lamiales taxa-like genes we identified among Lamiales taxa,, provide little convincing evidence regarding copy number provide little convincing evidence regarding copy number in Lamiales.in Lamiales.


3. Such 3. Such workwork will clarify issues regarding the will clarify issues regarding the frequency of duplication for frequency of duplication for LFY/FLOLFY/FLO relative to relative to other floral regulatory genesother floral regulatory genes,, and may contribute and may contribute to an understanding of the evolution of to an understanding of the evolution of regulatory pathways following duplication. regulatory pathways following duplication.

3. Such work will clarify issues regarding the 3. Such work will clarify issues regarding the frequency of duplication for frequency of duplication for LFY/FLO LFY/FLO relative to relative to other floral regulatory other floral regulatory genes and maygenes and may contribute contribute to an understanding of the evolution of to an understanding of the evolution of regulatory pathways following duplication. [not a regulatory pathways following duplication. [not a compound sentence, i.e., no 2nd subject before compound sentence, i.e., no 2nd subject before the 2nd verb]the 2nd verb]


4. 4. By focusingBy focusing on on LFY/FLO, UFO/FIMLFY/FLO, UFO/FIM, and , and AP3/DEFAP3/DEF together together wewe examine duplication of multiple interacting examine duplication of multiple interacting members comprising a portion of a signaling pathway members comprising a portion of a signaling pathway previously studied only individually (previously studied only individually (LFY/FLO, AP3/DEFLFY/FLO, AP3/DEF) ) or for which little is known outside of model species or for which little is known outside of model species ((UFO/FIMUFO/FIM). ). [introductory][introductory]

4. By focusing on 4. By focusing on LFY/FLO, UFO/FIMLFY/FLO, UFO/FIM, and , and AP3/DEFAP3/DEF togethertogether, we, we examine duplication of multiple interacting examine duplication of multiple interacting members comprising a portion of a signaling pathway members comprising a portion of a signaling pathway previously studied only individually (previously studied only individually (LFY/FLO, AP3/DEFLFY/FLO, AP3/DEF) ) or for which little is known outside of model species or for which little is known outside of model species ((UFO/FIMUFO/FIM). ).


5. Our morphological cladistic analysis suggests the 5. Our morphological cladistic analysis suggests the following seven synapomorphies for following seven synapomorphies for Liquidambar:Liquidambar: (1) (1) filaments longer than filaments longer than anthersanthers;; (2) absence of stomium (2) absence of stomium bifurcations, (3) persistent and (4) straight styles; (5) bifurcations, (3) persistent and (4) straight styles; (5) presence of multicellular stigmatic hairs; (6) single-presence of multicellular stigmatic hairs; (6) single-layered inner carpel walls, and (7) exserted fruits.layered inner carpel walls, and (7) exserted fruits.

5. Our morphological cladistic analysis suggests the 5. Our morphological cladistic analysis suggests the following seven synapomorphies for following seven synapomorphies for LiquidambarLiquidambar: (1) : (1) filaments longer than filaments longer than anthersanthers,, (2) absence of stomium (2) absence of stomium bifurcations, (3) persistent and (4) straight styles, (5) bifurcations, (3) persistent and (4) straight styles, (5) presence of multicellular stigmatic hairs, (6) single-presence of multicellular stigmatic hairs, (6) single-layered inner carpel walls, and (7) exserted fruits.layered inner carpel walls, and (7) exserted fruits.


6. The stigmatic surfaces often break off or abrade at this 6. The stigmatic surfaces often break off or abrade at this stagestage, however,, however, the styles and their triangular bases the styles and their triangular bases typically persist. With desiccation the styles and style typically persist. With desiccation the styles and style bases become vertically striate. bases become vertically striate.

6. The stigmatic surfaces often break off or abrade at this 6. The stigmatic surfaces often break off or abrade at this stagestage; however,; however, the styles and their triangular bases the styles and their triangular bases typically persist. With desiccation, the styles and style typically persist. With desiccation, the styles and style bases become vertically striate. bases become vertically striate.

7. The outer floral whorl consists of five, large, overlapping 7. The outer floral whorl consists of five, large, overlapping sepals sepals whichwhich are green at anthesis. are green at anthesis.

7. The outer floral whorl consists of five, large, overlapping 7. The outer floral whorl consists of five, large, overlapping sepalssepals, which, which are green at anthesis. . are green at anthesis. . [If there are only [If there are only five sepals and all are like this.]five sepals and all are like this.]


8. The BSA clade 8. The BSA clade whichwhich is recognized without strong is recognized without strong support includes aero-aquatic species of support includes aero-aquatic species of Vibrissea, Vibrissea, Hydrocina, CudoniellaHydrocina, Cudoniella, and , and OmbrophilaOmbrophila, and in addition , and in addition Ascocoryne, Bisporella, HyaloscyphaAscocoryne, Bisporella, Hyaloscypha, and , and HymenoscyphusHymenoscyphus species species whichwhich are associated with are associated with highly humid habitats.highly humid habitats.

8. The BSA clade8. The BSA clade, which, which is recognized without strong is recognized without strong support, includes aero-aquatic species of support, includes aero-aquatic species of Vibrissea, Vibrissea, Hydrocina, CudoniellaHydrocina, Cudoniella, and , and OmbrophilaOmbrophila and, in addition, and, in addition, Ascocoryne, Bisporella, HyaloscyphaAscocoryne, Bisporella, Hyaloscypha, and , and HymenoscyphusHymenoscyphus species species, which, which are associated with are associated with highly humid habitats.highly humid habitats.


9. Our study was undertaken 9. Our study was undertaken to evaluateto evaluate the circumscription the circumscription of Euphorbiaceae s.s. and monophyly of suprageneric taxa of Euphorbiaceae s.s. and monophyly of suprageneric taxa recognized in recent recognized in recent classifications,classifications, and and to elucidateto elucidate patterns patterns of infrafamilial relationships and character evolution.of infrafamilial relationships and character evolution.

9. Our study was undertaken 9. Our study was undertaken to evaluateto evaluate the circumscription the circumscription of Euphorbiaceae s.s. and monophyly of suprageneric taxa of Euphorbiaceae s.s. and monophyly of suprageneric taxa recognized in recent recognized in recent classifications andclassifications and to elucidateto elucidate patterns patterns of infrafamilial relationships and character evolution.of infrafamilial relationships and character evolution.

10. Alignments of 10. Alignments of rbcLrbcL were easily managed by were easily managed by eyeeye whereas whereas trnL-FtrnL-F sequences were aligned with CLUSTAL W. sequences were aligned with CLUSTAL W.

10. Alignments of 10. Alignments of rbcLrbcL were easily managed by were easily managed by eye,eye, whereas whereas trnL-FtrnL-F sequences were aligned with CLUSTAL W. sequences were aligned with CLUSTAL W.


11. The 11. The trnLtrnL intron ranged in length from 419 intron ranged in length from 419 ((AubletianaAubletiana) to 759 bp () to 759 bp (EuphorbiaEuphorbia epithymoidesepithymoides) ) but most accessions fell between 500 and 545 but most accessions fell between 500 and 545 bp. The bp. The trnL-FtrnL-F intergenic spacer ranged from intergenic spacer ranged from 135 (135 (Adenocline paucifloraAdenocline pauciflora) to 476 bp ) to 476 bp ((JulocrotonJulocroton) ) butbut most were 370–440 bp. most were 370–440 bp.

11. The 11. The trnLtrnL intron ranged in length from 419 intron ranged in length from 419 ((AubletianaAubletiana) to 759 bp () to 759 bp (EuphorbiaEuphorbia epithymoidesepithymoides), but most accessions fell between ), but most accessions fell between 500 and 545 bp. The 500 and 545 bp. The trnL-FtrnL-F intergenic spacer intergenic spacer ranged from 135 (ranged from 135 (Adenocline paucifloraAdenocline pauciflora) to 476 ) to 476 bp (bp (JulocrotonJulocroton)), but, but most weremost were 370–440 bp. 370–440 bp.


12. 12. Among species with a single palisadeAmong species with a single palisade L. L. formosanaformosana has cells with thin walls has cells with thin walls whilewhile in in L.L. styracifluastyraciflua and and L. orientalisL. orientalis cells have a prominent cells have a prominent thickening on the inner tangential wall.thickening on the inner tangential wall.

12. Among species with a single 12. Among species with a single palisade,palisade, L.L. formosanaformosana has cells with thin walls has cells with thin walls, while, while in in L.L. styracifluastyraciflua and and L. orientalisL. orientalis, cells have a prominent , cells have a prominent thickening on the inner tangential wall. thickening on the inner tangential wall.

[introductory; without the comma, “single palisade” [introductory; without the comma, “single palisade” seems to describe seems to describe LL. . formosaformosa]]


13. Other graminid-restiids include two large 13. Other graminid-restiids include two large families, Poaceae and Restionaceae, a small families, Poaceae and Restionaceae, a small family, Centrolepidaceae (three genera), and family, Centrolepidaceae (three genera), and three monogeneric families, Anarthriaceae s.s.,three monogeneric families, Anarthriaceae s.s., Flagellariaceae, and Joinvilleaceae.Flagellariaceae, and Joinvilleaceae.

13. Other graminid-restiids include two large 13. Other graminid-restiids include two large families, families, Poaceae and Restionaceae;Poaceae and Restionaceae; a small a small family, family, Centrolepidaceae (three genera);Centrolepidaceae (three genera); and and three monogeneric families, three monogeneric families, Anarthriaceae s.s.,Anarthriaceae s.s., Flagellariaceae, and Joinvilleaceae.Flagellariaceae, and Joinvilleaceae. [series [series within a series; must separate with semicolon for within a series; must separate with semicolon for clarity]clarity]

PrepositionsPrepositionsPrepositionsPrepositions

1. This pathogen usually does not 1. This pathogen usually does not colonizecolonize onon thethe external surface of the infected fruits. external surface of the infected fruits.

1. This pathogen usually does not 1. This pathogen usually does not colonize thecolonize the external surface of the infected fruits. [“on” is external surface of the infected fruits. [“on” is part of the meaning of colonize]part of the meaning of colonize]

2. In the trials 2. In the trials underunder screenhouses, the cloves screenhouses, the cloves were sown in furrows 30 cm apart.were sown in furrows 30 cm apart.

2. In the trials 2. In the trials inin screenhouses, the cloves were screenhouses, the cloves were sown in furrows 30 cm apart. [in: enclosed, sown in furrows 30 cm apart. [in: enclosed, inside the structure]inside the structure]

PrepositionsPrepositionsPrepositionsPrepositions

3. The seeds were separated 3. The seeds were separated inin groups of groups of 25 seeds.25 seeds.

3. The seeds were separated 3. The seeds were separated intointo groups of groups of 25 seeds. 25 seeds.

BothBothBothBoth

1. These two 1. These two BamHIBamHI fragments were contiguous…. fragments were contiguous…. Both of the twoBoth of the two fragments were sublconed. fragments were sublconed.

1. These two 1. These two BamHIBamHI fragments were contiguous…. fragments were contiguous…. Both fragmentsBoth fragments were sublconed. [Don’t use “two” were sublconed. [Don’t use “two” with “both”: both = two’]with “both”: both = two’]

2. These facts indicated that 2. These facts indicated that the boththe both fragments fragments were not contiguous.were not contiguous.

2. These facts indicated that 2. These facts indicated that neither of theneither of the fragments were contiguous. OR These facts fragments were contiguous. OR These facts indicated that indicated that the two fragments were notthe two fragments were not contiguous. [never “the both”]contiguous. [never “the both”]

But/and (opposing,contrasting)But/and (opposing,contrasting)But/and (opposing,contrasting)But/and (opposing,contrasting)

1. A probe derived from pAY13 hybridized 1. A probe derived from pAY13 hybridized specifically to all WT strains, specifically to all WT strains, and and notnot to other Ppi to other Ppi group strains or group strains or P.P. syringasyringa..

1. A probe derived from pAY13 hybridized 1. A probe derived from pAY13 hybridized specifically to all WT strains, specifically to all WT strains, but notbut not to other Ppi to other Ppi group strains or group strains or P.P. syringa.syringa.

Phasing with “other”Phasing with “other”Phasing with “other”Phasing with “other”

1.1. Two clones were almost identical as for the Two clones were almost identical as for the position of Tn5 insertion, whereas position of Tn5 insertion, whereas other threeother three clones were totally independent. clones were totally independent.

1.1. Two clones were almost identical as to the Two clones were almost identical as to the position of Tn5 insertion, whereas position of Tn5 insertion, whereas three otherthree other clones were totally independent.clones were totally independent.

[ If “the three other clones” was written, then the [ If “the three other clones” was written, then the phrase is referring to three other clones that phrase is referring to three other clones that were previously mentioned. In this case, they were previously mentioned. In this case, they are introduced here for the first time.]are introduced here for the first time.]

Phasing with “other”Phasing with “other”Phasing with “other”Phasing with “other”

2. The processes described in this paper might 2. The processes described in this paper might seem to favor the dispersal syndrome of S. seem to favor the dispersal syndrome of S. maritimusmaritimus (i.e., with a low production of seed yet a (i.e., with a low production of seed yet a local seed bank with the same density of viable local seed bank with the same density of viable seeds) rather than seeds) rather than other twoother two species. species.

2. The processes described in this paper might 2. The processes described in this paper might seem to favor the dispersal syndrome of S. seem to favor the dispersal syndrome of S. maritimusmaritimus (i.e., with a low production of seed yet a (i.e., with a low production of seed yet a local seed bank with the same density of viable local seed bank with the same density of viable seeds) rather than seeds) rather than the other twothe other two species. [use species. [use “the”: in this case, the species were mentioned “the”: in this case, the species were mentioned earlier]earlier]

AdverbAdverbAdverbAdverb

1. …. related to the small, 1. …. related to the small, bright coloredbright colored, , saprotrophic, and aquatic or hygrophilous saprotrophic, and aquatic or hygrophilous members in the Helotiaceae.members in the Helotiaceae.

1. …. related to the small, 1. …. related to the small, brightbrightlyly coloredcolored, , saprotrophic, and aquatic or hygrophilous saprotrophic, and aquatic or hygrophilous members in the Helotiaceae. (bright-colored members in the Helotiaceae. (bright-colored is correct, but brightly colored is better)is correct, but brightly colored is better)

Word choice, phrasingWord choice, phrasingWord choice, phrasingWord choice, phrasing

1. Differ1. Differencesences among isolates in the among isolates in the M. elegans-M. M. elegans-M. paludosapaludosa clade were less than 2 bp. clade were less than 2 bp.1. Isolates in the 1. Isolates in the M. elegans-M. paludosaM. elegans-M. paludosa clade clade differeddiffered by less than 2 bp. by less than 2 bp.

2. 2. UsingUsing Physalis floridanaPhysalis floridana as the host plant for as the host plant for replication, replication, extraction, clarification, and purificationextraction, clarification, and purification by by sucrose density gradient centrifugation of the causal sucrose density gradient centrifugation of the causal virus were performed.virus were performed.2. 2. WithWith Physalis floridanaPhysalis floridana as the host plant for as the host plant for replication, replication, the causal virusthe causal virus was was extracted, clarified, extracted, clarified, and purifiedand purified by sucrose density gradient centrifugation. by sucrose density gradient centrifugation.


3. Apart from 3. Apart from CampsiandraCampsiandra, for genera containing , for genera containing more than a single species, at least two species more than a single species, at least two species were included in at least one analysis.were included in at least one analysis.

3. For genera containing more than a single 3. For genera containing more than a single species (except for species (except for CampsiandraCampsiandra), we included ), we included at least two species in at least one analysis.at least two species in at least one analysis.

4. For tough, leathery leaves, autoclaved sand was 4. For tough, leathery leaves, autoclaved sand was used in grinding the leaves.used in grinding the leaves.

4. Autoclaved sand was used to grind tough, 4. Autoclaved sand was used to grind tough, leathery leaves.leathery leaves.

Word Choice, phrasingWord Choice, phrasingWord Choice, phrasingWord Choice, phrasing

5. All five comparisons 5. All five comparisons showedshowed a positive a positive association between average individual growth association between average individual growth rate and average palatability to a native slug rate and average palatability to a native slug species were positively associated.species were positively associated.

5. All five comparisons 5. All five comparisons hadhad a positive association a positive association between mean individual growth rate and mean between mean individual growth rate and mean palatability to a native slug species. palatability to a native slug species.

OR better, OR better, change –tion noun into verbchange –tion noun into verb: In all five : In all five comparisons, mean individual growth rate and comparisons, mean individual growth rate and mean palatability to a native slug species were mean palatability to a native slug species were positively positively associatedassociated [correlated?]. [correlated?].


6. We believe paralogs of other floral 6. We believe paralogs of other floral regulatory regulatory genesgenes will likely be found, will likely be found, such such as those that are known to dimerize with as those that are known to dimerize with AP3/DEFAP3/DEF..

6. We believe paralogs of other floral 6. We believe paralogs of other floral regulatory regulatory genes, such as those that are genes, such as those that are known to dimerize with known to dimerize with AP3/DEFAP3/DEF,, will will likely be foundlikely be found.. [place description beside [place description beside the word described]the word described]


7. The woody species included proportionately 7. The woody species included proportionately more dioecious species (more dioecious species (22%; 5722%; 57), and herbs ), and herbs had proportionately had proportionately lessless dioecious species than dioecious species than expected from a random distribution.expected from a random distribution.

7. The woody species included proportionately 7. The woody species included proportionately more dioecious species (22%; 57), and herbs more dioecious species (22%; 57), and herbs had proportionately had proportionately fewerfewer dioecious species dioecious species than expected from a random distribution. than expected from a random distribution. [fewer: countable nouns, less: noncountable] [fewer: countable nouns, less: noncountable] [does 22% = 57, is [does 22% = 57, is NN = 57?] = 57?]


8. The fossil 8. The fossil flora isflora is undoubtedly undoubtedly less wellless well sampled than sampled than the extant flora.the extant flora.

8. The fossil 8. The fossil flora areflora are undoubtedly undoubtedly not as wellnot as well sampled as sampled as the extant flora. [Do not use opposing adjectives (less the extant flora. [Do not use opposing adjectives (less vs. well); collective noun, flora, is treated as plural.]vs. well); collective noun, flora, is treated as plural.]

9. Zoospores at this stage attached to the root surface or 9. Zoospores at this stage attached to the root surface or the surface of the SEM pore the surface of the SEM pore membranemembrane usually at their usually at their dorsal surfacedorsal surface..

9. 9. ZoosporesZoospores at this stage attached, at this stage attached, usually at their usually at their [refers zoospores] dorsal surface,[refers zoospores] dorsal surface, to the root or the to the root or the SEM pore membrane. [can omit “surface”, understood SEM pore membrane. [can omit “surface”, understood to attach to the surface]to attach to the surface]


10. Our current results do not contradict this 10. Our current results do not contradict this taxonomic interpretation; no morphological taxonomic interpretation; no morphological synapomorphy was found, synapomorphy was found, which could which could distinguish the two generadistinguish the two genera..

10. Our current results do not contradict this 10. Our current results do not contradict this taxonomic interpretation; no morphological taxonomic interpretation; no morphological synapomorphy thatsynapomorphy that could distinguish the two could distinguish the two genera was found.genera was found.

Verb tenseVerb tenseVerb tenseVerb tense

1. 1. Since thenSince then, we , we have beenhave been isolatedisolated 450 450 cultures of cultures of X. oryzaeX. oryzae pv. pv. oryzaeoryzae. .

1. Since then, we 1. Since then, we havehave isolatedisolated 450 cultures 450 cultures of of X. oryzaeX. oryzae pv. pv. oryzaeoryzae. [continued over . [continued over time, completed action] Since then, we time, completed action] Since then, we have been isolating cultures of have been isolating cultures of X. oryzaeX. oryzae pv. pv. Oryzae.Oryzae. [continuing from past into present][continuing from past into present]

2. 2. DuringDuring 2002-2003, we 2002-2003, we havehave isolatedisolated 450…. 450….

2. 2. DuringDuring 2002-2003, we 2002-2003, we isolatedisolated 450…. 450…. [completed action][completed action]


3. Apart from 3. Apart from CampsiandraCampsiandra, for genera , for genera containing more than a single species, containing more than a single species, at least two species at least two species have been have been includedincluded in at least one analysis. in at least one analysis.

3. Apart from 3. Apart from CampsiandraCampsiandra, for genera , for genera with more than a single species, at with more than a single species, at least two species least two species were includedwere included in at in at least one analysis. least one analysis. [single occurrence [single occurrence in the past]in the past]


4. 4. Agrobacterium radiobacterAgrobacterium radiobacter biovar 3 biovar 3 has beenhas been isolated as isolated as a a cohabitant with cohabitant with A. tumefaciensA. tumefaciens biovar 3 in soil, in apparently healthy plant biovar 3 in soil, in apparently healthy plant tissues, and in galls tissues, and in galls in the USA in the USA (Burr et (Burr et aall.. 19871987).).

4. 4. Agrobacterium radiobacterAgrobacterium radiobacter biovar 3 biovar 3 waswas isolated as isolated as a a cohabitant with cohabitant with A. tumefaciensA. tumefaciens biovar 3 in soil, in apparently healthy plant biovar 3 in soil, in apparently healthy plant tissues, and in galls tissues, and in galls in the USA in the USA (Burr et (Burr et aall.. 19871987).).

Miscellaneous problemsMiscellaneous problemsMiscellaneous problemsMiscellaneous problems

1. The genomic DNA was digested with 1. The genomic DNA was digested with XbaIXbaI and and SacISacI, , of which the sites are locatedof which the sites are located at the 5 at the 5 and and 33 ends of the gene, respectively. ends of the gene, respectively.

1. The genomic DNA was digested with 1. The genomic DNA was digested with XbaIXbaI and and SacISacI, , which haswhich has [restriction] sites at the 5 [restriction] sites at the 5 and 3 and 3 ends of the gene, respectively.ends of the gene, respectively.

2. 2. It is likely thatIt is likely that these fragments might be due to these fragments might be due to some rearrangements of the transgene DNA some rearrangements of the transgene DNA during transformation.during transformation.

2. These fragments 2. These fragments are likely toare likely to be due to be due to rearrangements of the transgenic DNA during rearrangements of the transgenic DNA during transformation.transformation.


3. Topics to be addressed in a future study include testing the 3. Topics to be addressed in a future study include testing the monophyly and determining the systematic position of monophyly and determining the systematic position of ForsteroniaForsteronia in the in the Mesechiteae,Mesechiteae, defining the generic defining the generic circumscription of circumscription of AllomarkgrafiaAllomarkgrafia, , MacrosiphoniaMacrosiphonia, and , and TelosiphoniaTelosiphonia,, testing the monophyly of the currently recognized testing the monophyly of the currently recognized sections within sections within MandevillaMandevilla,, and elucidating character evolution and elucidating character evolution and the biogeographic history of the group.and the biogeographic history of the group.

3. Topics to be addressed in a future study include testing the 3. Topics to be addressed in a future study include testing the monophyly and determining the systematic position of monophyly and determining the systematic position of ForsteroniaForsteronia in the in the MesechiteaeMesechiteae;; defining the generic defining the generic circumscription of circumscription of AllomarkgrafiaAllomarkgrafia, , MacrosiphoniaMacrosiphonia, and , and TelosiphoniaTelosiphonia;; testing the monophyly of the currently recognized testing the monophyly of the currently recognized sections within sections within MandevillaMandevilla;; and elucidating character evolution and elucidating character evolution and the biogeographic history of the group. and the biogeographic history of the group. [series within a [series within a series]series]


4. 4. During dehiscenceDuring dehiscence the endocarp is released the endocarp is released intact as a thin, papery wing-like layer, with intact as a thin, papery wing-like layer, with the seed held inside.the seed held inside.

4. 4. During dehiscence,During dehiscence, the endocarp is released the endocarp is released intact as a thin, papery wing-like layer, with intact as a thin, papery wing-like layer, with the seed held inside. the seed held inside. [introductory][introductory]


5. In our analyses, the clade comprising 5. In our analyses, the clade comprising DelonixDelonix, , ColvilleaColvillea, and , and LemuropisumLemuropisum is well supported as is well supported as monophyletic, characterized principally by the monophyletic, characterized principally by the presence of a valvate calyx (also seen in presence of a valvate calyx (also seen in CordeauxiaCordeauxia and and MoldenhaweraMoldenhawera), the sepals ), the sepals of whichof which do not do not reflex at anthesis.reflex at anthesis.

5. In our analyses, the clade comprising 5. In our analyses, the clade comprising DelonixDelonix, , ColvilleaColvillea, and , and LemuropisumLemuropisum is well supported as is well supported as monophyletic, characterized principally by the monophyletic, characterized principally by the presence of a valvate calyx (also seen in presence of a valvate calyx (also seen in CordeauxiaCordeauxia and and MoldenhaweraMoldenhawera), ), which haswhich has sepals that do not sepals that do not reflex at anthesis. reflex at anthesis. [avoid “of which”][avoid “of which”]


6. When a significant effect of calyx size on a response 6. When a significant effect of calyx size on a response variable was found, orthogonal polynomials were variable was found, orthogonal polynomials were used to further test used to further test whether there waswhether there was a trend a trend between the response variable and the quantitative between the response variable and the quantitative levels of the levels of the factor,factor, and to assess if the trend had and to assess if the trend had significant linear and/or quadratic components.significant linear and/or quadratic components.

6. When a significant effect of calyx size on a response 6. When a significant effect of calyx size on a response variable was found, orthogonal polynomials were variable was found, orthogonal polynomials were used to further test used to further test forfor a trend between the response a trend between the response variable and the quantitative levels of variable and the quantitative levels of the factor andthe factor and to assess if the trend had significant linear and/or to assess if the trend had significant linear and/or quadratic components.quadratic components.


7. Our study was undertaken to evaluate the 7. Our study was undertaken to evaluate the circumscription of Euphorbiaceae s.s. and circumscription of Euphorbiaceae s.s. and monophyly of suprageneric taxa recognized in monophyly of suprageneric taxa recognized in recent recent classifications,classifications, and to elucidate patterns of and to elucidate patterns of infrafamilial relationships and character evolution.infrafamilial relationships and character evolution.

7. Our study was undertaken to evaluate the 7. Our study was undertaken to evaluate the circumscription of Euphorbiaceae s.s. and circumscription of Euphorbiaceae s.s. and monophyly of suprageneric taxa recognized in monophyly of suprageneric taxa recognized in recent classifications and to elucidate patterns of recent classifications and to elucidate patterns of infrafamilial relationships and character evolution.infrafamilial relationships and character evolution.


8. Alignments of 8. Alignments of rbcLrbcL were easily managed were easily managed by eye by eye whereaswhereas trnL-FtrnL-F sequences were sequences were aligned with CLUSTAL W.aligned with CLUSTAL W.

8. Alignments of 8. Alignments of rbcLrbcL were easily managed were easily managed by eyeby eye, whereas, whereas trnL-FtrnL-F sequences were sequences were aligned with CLUSTAL W.aligned with CLUSTAL W.[Better: The [Better: The rbcLrbcL sequences were easily sequences were easily aligned by eye, whereas aligned by eye, whereas trnL-FtrnL-F sequences sequences were aligned with CLUSTAL W.]were aligned with CLUSTAL W.]


9. The 9. The trnLtrnL intron ranged in length from 419 intron ranged in length from 419 ((AubletianaAubletiana) to 759 bp () to 759 bp (E.E. epithymoidesepithymoides) ) but but mostmost accessions fell between 500 and 545 bp. The accessions fell between 500 and 545 bp. The trnL-FtrnL-F intergenic spacer ranged from 135 (intergenic spacer ranged from 135 (A. paucifloraA. pauciflora) to ) to 476 bp (476 bp (JulocrotonJulocroton) ) but mostbut most were 370–440 bp. were 370–440 bp.

9. The 9. The trnLtrnL intron ranged in length from 419 intron ranged in length from 419 (Aubletiana) to 759 bp ((Aubletiana) to 759 bp (E.E. epithymoidesepithymoides)), but , but most most accessions fell between 500 and 545 bp. The accessions fell between 500 and 545 bp. The trnL-FtrnL-F intergenic spacer ranged from 135 (intergenic spacer ranged from 135 (A. paucifloraA. pauciflora) to ) to 476 bp (476 bp (JulocrotonJulocroton), but ), but most were 370–440 bp.most were 370–440 bp.


10. 10. AlthoughAlthough viable seeds of viable seeds of S. maritimusS. maritimus were found were found only in the surface only in the surface wewe found large numbers of non- found large numbers of non-viable seeds of all three species at all depths.viable seeds of all three species at all depths.

10. 10. AlthoughAlthough viable seeds of viable seeds of S. maritimusS. maritimus were found were found only on the surfaceonly on the surface, we, we found large numbers of found large numbers of nonviable seeds of all three species at all depths.nonviable seeds of all three species at all depths.

11. The 11. The innermost palisade layer innermost palisade layer lininglining varies in cell varies in cell number and anatomy.number and anatomy.

11. 11. Eliminate the noun stackEliminate the noun stack; we have to ask the ; we have to ask the author: Do you mean the author: Do you mean the innermost lining of the innermost lining of the palisade layerpalisade layer or the or the lining of the innermost lining of the innermost palisade layerpalisade layer? ?


12. Approximately 86 h of observa12. Approximately 86 h of observationstions were were carried outcarried out at the five sites over at the five sites over a period ofa period of 22 d to determine the pollinators of 22 d to determine the pollinators of Z. Z. microsiphonmicrosiphon and and D. niveaD. nivea..

12. We observed 12. We observed Z. microsiphonZ. microsiphon and and D. D. niveanivea at the five sites for c. 86 h over 22 d at the five sites for c. 86 h over 22 d to determine the pollinators. to determine the pollinators. [change -tion [change -tion noun into verb, eliminate unnecessary noun into verb, eliminate unnecessary words]words]


13. In this study, alleles for each of three nuclear gene loci 13. In this study, alleles for each of three nuclear gene loci were sampled, sequenced and compared among three were sampled, sequenced and compared among three distantdistantly-ly-related biological species in the genus related biological species in the genus PiceaPicea..

13. In this study, alleles for each of three nuclear gene loci 13. In this study, alleles for each of three nuclear gene loci were sampled, sequenced and compared among three were sampled, sequenced and compared among three distantly related biological species in the genus distantly related biological species in the genus PiceaPicea..

14. 14. UsingUsing the difference in their infectivity to cowpea, the difference in their infectivity to cowpea, the the originorigin of the RNA 2 in SATIs and SLIs was characterized. of the RNA 2 in SATIs and SLIs was characterized.

14. 14. UsingUsing the difference in their infectivity to cowpea, the difference in their infectivity to cowpea, wewe characterized the origin of the RNA 2 in SATIs and SLIs. characterized the origin of the RNA 2 in SATIs and SLIs. [dangling modifier][dangling modifier]


15. This method paved the way for purification of 15. This method paved the way for purification of PLRVPLRV, and was, and was appliedapplied to purification of other to purification of other luteoviruses.luteoviruses.

15. This method paved the way for purification of 15. This method paved the way for purification of PLRV and wasPLRV and was usedused to purify other luteoviruses. to purify other luteoviruses.


16. Later, Takanami et al. 16. Later, Takanami et al. proposedproposed a modific a modificationation of the purification method by incorporating a of the purification method by incorporating a commercial enzyme preparation having commercial enzyme preparation having cellulose activity.cellulose activity.

16. Later, Takanami et al. 16. Later, Takanami et al. modifiedmodified the purification the purification method by incorporating a commercial enzyme method by incorporating a commercial enzyme preparation having cellulose activity. preparation having cellulose activity. [Why talk [Why talk about a proposal if they actually modified the about a proposal if they actually modified the method? Change –ion noun into strong verb.]method? Change –ion noun into strong verb.]


17. 17. UsingUsing this antiserum, a rapid this antiserum, a rapid diagnosisdiagnosis by by immunoelectronmicroscopy and ELISA were immunoelectronmicroscopy and ELISA were developed and introduced with official appproval developed and introduced with official appproval into seed potato production.into seed potato production.

17. Using this antiserum with immunoelectron 17. Using this antiserum with immunoelectron microscopy and ELISA, microscopy and ELISA, wewe developed a rapid developed a rapid diagnostic methoddiagnostic method, , which was introducedwhich was introduced with with official appproval into seed potato production. official appproval into seed potato production. [dangling modifier][dangling modifier]


18. We confirmed 18. We confirmed Myzus persicaeMyzus persicae as vector of PLRV, as vector of PLRV, as well as well asas Aulacorthum solaniAulacorthum solani and and A. euphorbieA. euphorbie, and revealed , and revealed involvement of the three aphids in transmission of PLRV in involvement of the three aphids in transmission of PLRV in Japan.Japan.

18. We confirmed 18. We confirmed Myzus persicaeMyzus persicae as a vector of PLRV, as a vector of PLRV, as areas are Aulacorthum solaniAulacorthum solani and and A. euphorbieA. euphorbie, and revealed , and revealed involvement of the three aphids in transmission of PLRV in involvement of the three aphids in transmission of PLRV in Japan. Japan. [Use “a”: there is more than one vector; [Use “a”: there is more than one vector; someone else confirmed the other two as vectors.]someone else confirmed the other two as vectors.]OR: We confirmed OR: We confirmed Myzus persicae,Myzus persicae, as well asas well as Aulacor-thum Aulacor-thum solanisolani and and A. euphorbieA. euphorbie,, as vectorsas vectors of PLRV of PLRV [no comma][no comma] and revealed involvement of the three aphids in and revealed involvement of the three aphids in transmission of PLRV in Japan. transmission of PLRV in Japan. [The authors confirmed all [The authors confirmed all three as vectors.]three as vectors.]

Multiple problemsMultiple problemsMultiple problemsMultiple problems

1. However, 1. However, it is difficultit is difficult to evaluate the to evaluate the percent of percent of deeply-burieddeeply-buried seeds that seeds that reach the soil surface via this reach the soil surface via this route,route, and and the time period involved in the process.the time period involved in the process.

1. However, 1. However, evaluatingevaluating the percentagethe percentage of of deeply buried seeds that reach the soil deeply buried seeds that reach the soil surface via this route surface via this route andand the lengththe length of of time involved is difficult. time involved is difficult.


2. Presence of a terminal oligo-pyrimidine tract in 2. Presence of a terminal oligo-pyrimidine tract in its transcript its transcript suggestssuggests that that HaABRC5HaABRC5 is a TOP is a TOP genegene, and, and that its expression is regulated in that its expression is regulated in relationship to plant cell growth.relationship to plant cell growth.

2. 2. Because ofBecause of thethe presence of a terminal oligo-presence of a terminal oligo-pyrimidine tract in its transcript,pyrimidine tract in its transcript, HaABRC5 HaABRC5 may may be a TOP gene be a TOP gene andand its expression may be its expression may be regulated in relationship to plant cell growth.regulated in relationship to plant cell growth.


3. Carbon catabolite repression of fungal PGs 3. Carbon catabolite repression of fungal PGs was was reportedreported for for Fusarium oxysporumFusarium oxysporum f. sp. f. sp. lycopersicilycopersici, , Aspergillus nigerAspergillus niger, , A. nidulans, A. nidulans, Cochliobolus carbonum Cochliobolus carbonum race 1race 1 andand Penicillium Penicillium expansumexpansum [multiple citations given][multiple citations given]..

3. Carbon catabolite repression of fungal PGs 3. Carbon catabolite repression of fungal PGs has has been reportedbeen reported for for Fusarium oxysporumFusarium oxysporum f. sp. f. sp. lycopersicilycopersici, , Aspergillus nigerAspergillus niger, , A. nidulans, A. nidulans, Cochliobolus carbonum Cochliobolus carbonum race 1race 1 andand Penicillium Penicillium expansumexpansum. . [reports over time, use progressive [reports over time, use progressive “has been”]“has been”]


4. 4. Inverse-correlationInverse-correlation between the accumulation of between the accumulation of mRNA in GFP silenced transgenic mRNA in GFP silenced transgenic Nicotiana Nicotiana benthamianabenthamiana and the resistance to and the resistance to GFP gene-GFP gene-carryingcarrying Potato virus X Potato virus X [title?][title?]

4. mRNA levels in GFP-silenced transgenic 4. mRNA levels in GFP-silenced transgenic Nicotiana benthamianaNicotiana benthamiana is inversely correlated is inversely correlated withwith resistance to resistance to GFP-transformedGFP-transformed Potato virus Potato virus XX [no hyphen in inverse correlation] [no hyphen in inverse correlation]


5. Recognition of the four species of 5. Recognition of the four species of LiquidambarLiquidambar has has been widely acceptedbeen widely accepted, however,, however, a few authors have a few authors have suggested that suggested that L. styracifluaL. styraciflua and and L. orientalis L. orientalis might be might be conspecific based conspecific based onon the continuous, clinal variation the continuous, clinal variation among leavesamong leaves, and, and the relatively subtle morphological the relatively subtle morphological differences between their infructescences.differences between their infructescences.

5. Recognition of the four species of 5. Recognition of the four species of LiquidambarLiquidambar has has been widely acceptedbeen widely accepted; however,; however, a few authors have a few authors have suggested that suggested that L. styracifluaL. styraciflua and and L. orientalisL. orientalis might be might be conspecific based on the continuous, clinal variation conspecific based on the continuous, clinal variation among among leaves and onleaves and on the relatively subtle morphological the relatively subtle morphological differences between their infructescences. differences between their infructescences.

Multiple problemsMultiple problemsMultiple problemsMultiple problems6. The posterior flagellum of Oomycete zoospores 6. The posterior flagellum of Oomycete zoospores is believed is believed

toto be involved in steering the swimming zoospores by the be involved in steering the swimming zoospores by the anterior flagellum. Although in phytopathogenic zoosporic anterior flagellum. Although in phytopathogenic zoosporic fungi, the role of posterior flagellum fungi, the role of posterior flagellum onon contacting host contacting host before encystment before encystment has been proposed by the several has been proposed by the several researchersresearchers, the evidence supporting this view has been , the evidence supporting this view has been lacking lacking hithertohitherto..

6. The posterior flagellum of Oomycete zoospores 6. The posterior flagellum of Oomycete zoospores maymay be be involved with the anterior flagellum in steering the involved with the anterior flagellum in steering the swimming zoospores. Although in phytopatho-genic swimming zoospores. Although in phytopatho-genic zoosporic fungi, the role of the posterior flagellum zoosporic fungi, the role of the posterior flagellum inin contacting the host before encystment contacting the host before encystment has been proposedhas been proposed by several researchersby several researchers, the evidence supporting this view , the evidence supporting this view has [has [hithertohitherto] been lacking.] been lacking.


7. From an epidemiological point of view, a 7. From an epidemiological point of view, a survivor among the bacterial population survivor among the bacterial population whichwhich will be to become a primary inoculum will be to become a primary inoculum mightmight be a be a key to key to find outfind out the origin of the pathogenic the origin of the pathogenic alternation of the pathogen.alternation of the pathogen.

7. From an epidemiological point of view, a 7. From an epidemiological point of view, a survivor in the bacterial population survivor in the bacterial population thatthat will will [or: [or: may]may] become primary inoculum might be a key become primary inoculum might be a key to to determinedetermine the origin of the pathogenic the origin of the pathogenic alternation of the pathogen. alternation of the pathogen.

Parallel ConstructionParallel ConstructionParallel ConstructionParallel Construction

1. Further studies on the 1. Further studies on the intensity ofintensity of fruiting, fruiting, population population dynamics ofdynamics of seed predators, and seed predators, and seed and seedlingseed and seedling survivalsurvival are needed to are needed to understand the efficiency of predator satiation.understand the efficiency of predator satiation.

1. Further studies on the 1. Further studies on the intensity ofintensity of fruiting, fruiting, population population dynamics ofdynamics of seed predators, and seed predators, and survival ofsurvival of seeds and seedlings are needed to seeds and seedlings are needed to understand the efficiency of predator satiation.understand the efficiency of predator satiation.

WhoWhoWhoWho

1. Marker-assisted fingerprinting of the offspring 1. Marker-assisted fingerprinting of the offspring resulting from controlled pollination experiments resulting from controlled pollination experiments among the Mediterranean cedar taxa was among the Mediterranean cedar taxa was reported by Fady et al. (2003), and these authors reported by Fady et al. (2003), and these authors recommended the use of cpSSRs for monitoring recommended the use of cpSSRs for monitoring gene flow.gene flow.

1. Marker-assisted fingerprinting of the offspring 1. Marker-assisted fingerprinting of the offspring resulting from controlled pollination experiments resulting from controlled pollination experiments among the Mediterranean cedar taxa was among the Mediterranean cedar taxa was reported by Fady et al. (2003), who recommended reported by Fady et al. (2003), who recommended the use of cpSSRs for monitoring gene flow.the use of cpSSRs for monitoring gene flow.

AbstractAbstractAbstractAbstract

The mode of aggregation, attachment and The mode of aggregation, attachment and differentiation of zoospores of the differentiation of zoospores of the phytopathogenic fungus phytopathogenic fungus Aphanamyces cochioidesAphanamyces cochioides when interacting with the host and a host-specific when interacting with the host and a host-specific attractant and a G-protein activator, mastoparan, attractant and a G-protein activator, mastoparan, were studied by light and scanning electron were studied by light and scanning electron microscopy. microscopy.

The mode of aggregation, attachment and The mode of aggregation, attachment and differentiation of zoospores of the differentiation of zoospores of the phytopathogenic fungus phytopathogenic fungus Aphanamyces cochioidesAphanamyces cochioides when interacting with the host and a host-specific when interacting with the host and a host-specific attractant and a G-protein activator, mastoparan, attractant and a G-protein activator, mastoparan, was studied by light and scanning electron was studied by light and scanning electron microscopy. microscopy.

Abstract continuedAbstract continuedAbstract continuedAbstract continued

When a zoospore approached very close to the host When a zoospore approached very close to the host root, it seemed to be halted and coiled the anterior root, it seemed to be halted and coiled the anterior flagellum on its body. The halted zoospore flagellum on its body. The halted zoospore appeared to contact the host surface by its appeared to contact the host surface by its posterior flagellum, which gradually drew the posterior flagellum, which gradually drew the encysting zoospore onto the root surface. encysting zoospore onto the root surface.

When a zoospore came very close to the host root, it When a zoospore came very close to the host root, it seemed to halt, then coiled its anterior flagellum seemed to halt, then coiled its anterior flagellum onto [or around?] its body. The halted zoospore onto [or around?] its body. The halted zoospore appeared to contact the host surface with its appeared to contact the host surface with its posterior flagellum, which gradually drew the posterior flagellum, which gradually drew the encysting zoospore onto [denotes movement to encysting zoospore onto [denotes movement to reach the state of being on something] the root reach the state of being on something] the root surface. surface.


The spore then docked precisely on the root surface at its The spore then docked precisely on the root surface at its ventral face by the help of posterior flagellum and ventral face by the help of posterior flagellum and anchored itself by releasing some adhesive materials. anchored itself by releasing some adhesive materials. The adhered spore became a spherical shape by The adhered spore became a spherical shape by shedding flagella and rapidly turned into an expanded shedding flagella and rapidly turned into an expanded cyst forming a smooth cyst-coat around it, that finally cyst forming a smooth cyst-coat around it, that finally changed into a smaller cystospore covered with changed into a smaller cystospore covered with wrinkled surface. wrinkled surface.

The spore then docked precisely on the root surface at its The spore then docked precisely on the root surface at its ventral face with the help of the posterior flagellum and ventral face with the help of the posterior flagellum and anchored itself by releasing some adhesive materials. anchored itself by releasing some adhesive materials. The adherent spore became spherical after shedding The adherent spore became spherical after shedding its flagella and rapidly expanded into a cyst, forming a its flagella and rapidly expanded into a cyst, forming a smooth cyst coat, and finally changed into a smaller smooth cyst coat, and finally changed into a smaller cystospore with a wrinkled surface.cystospore with a wrinkled surface.


In contrast, the mastoparan or cochiophilin A stimulated zoospores on artificial membrane shown to aggregate each other by using their posterior flagella before encystment. These contrasting phenomena suggest that A. cochlioides zoospore may use their posterior flagella for successful docking on the host surface or aggregation of encysting spores in the absence of host.

In contrast, mastoparan- or cochiophilin A-stimulated zoospores on artificial membranes aggregated using their posterior flagella before encystment [OR: before they encysted]. These contrasting phenomena suggest that A. cochlioides zoospores may use their posterior flagella for successful docking on the host surface or for aggregating encysting spores in the absence of the host.

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