Manuscript Reviews

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Manuscript Reviews

• Guidelines for Reviewers of Scientific
  Manuscripts
• Actual Reviews
• On Website next week
• http//WillowsEnd.net
• All slides, English review (problem set)

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Manuscript Reviews

• Guidelines for Reviewers of Scientific
  Manuscripts

3
Reviewers serve two groups

• The editor and the journal
• Make sure only quality work of significance is
  published
• The author to improve the paper, not just to
  judge (constructive criticism)
• Give helpful, honest feedback (criticize),
  specific technical comments
• Suggest improvements,other interpretations of
  results,other experiments and approaches

4
Step 1 of review Initial assessment

• Scan the manuscript, take notes
• Abstract, introduction, discussion/conclusions
• Summarize the problem, approach, conclusions
• Ask yourself personal questions
• Am I the right person to review this ms?
• Is someone else better qualified?
• Do I have a conflict of interest?
• Do I know the author(s)?
• Do I have time to review it well within the
  deadline?

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Initial assessment

• Content
• Is the subject suitable for the journal?
• Scientific merit
• Is the manuscript worth publishing?
• Is the data high quality? Is it true?
• Significance of results
• New knowledge, understanding, technique?
• Is it interesting?
• Is it a significant contribution to the field?
• It should NOT be a simple extension or slight
  modification of past research.

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If you will not continue the review. . .

• State your specific reasons (personal or
  scientific)
• Reasons to reject for publication at this stage
• Not suitable for journal
• Work is poorly executed or not significant
• Poor English, writing, or organization
• Personal

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The review

• Read the entire manuscript thoroughly
• Take detailed notes they will be the outline
  for your review

8
Make an organized list of specific comments or
recommendations

• Give location (page, paragraph, line)
• List by importance most important first
• This sentence/paragraph/section would be stronger
  if. . .
• This argument would be convincing if you
  presented data. . .

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Look for

• Presentation
• A story line or thread to tie entire paper and
  each section together
• Clear, logical flow (movement) sentence to
  sentence, paragraph to paragraph, section to
  section
• Correct amount of detail
• For experts in the field
• To reproduce the work

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Presentation . . .

• The research problem
• Good approach to problem
• Reasonable interpretation of results, without too
  much speculation
• No technical errors
• English
• Appropriate language
• Correct use of terminology
• Need work before acceptance?
• Recommend help!

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Title

• Accurate description of main focus
• Should include most important aspects (key words)
• Organism(s)
• Technique
• Result
• Can length be reduced?
• Should order of words or phrasing be changed?

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Title

• Cucumber mosaic virus 2b discriminates small RNAs
  with different modes of binding RNA complexes

• ?
• Cucumber mosaic virus 2b discriminates small RNAs
  with differential binding of RNA complexes

? Suppressor 2b of Cucumber mosaic virus
discriminates small RNAs by differentially
binding RNA complexes
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Title

• Comparative analysis of gene expression of the
  transcript profiles of tomato roots infected with
  cyst nematode by SAGE

? Comparative serial analysis of gene expression
(SAGE) of transcript profiles of tomato roots
infected with cyst nematode
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Title

• Molecular cloning of genes encoding
  endoglucanases RCE2 and RCE3 from Rhizopus oryzae
  and discussion of possible evolutionary process
  of the rce genes
• ?
• Molecular cloning of genes for endoglucanases
  RCE2 and RCE3 from Rhizopus oryzae and possible
  evolution of the rce genes

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Abstract

• Clearly outlines the main points of focus
• One or two succinct sentences on the background
  of organisms, problem
• Approach to solving the problem, including a
  sentence or two about technique or method
• Results
• One or two sentences on significance of results
  in relation to research question, our
  understanding of the problem, and/or potential
  use

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Problems with abstracts

• Not including the correct information (or not
  enough, e.g., just a few sentences when authors
  English is poor)
• Including too much information
• Not the place for an introduction
• Methods or results too detailed
• Including the wrong information
• Other studies or citations should be in the
  Introduction or Discussion

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Problems with abstracts

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

• Need to identify all symptoms (others are given
  in captions), plant parts
• Rated disease development (table), not in
  abstract
• No mention of Kochs postulates

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Problems with abstracts

• Although isolation of an endoglucanase gene from
  members of the subdivision Zygomycota had not
  been reported, in a previous study, we cloned a
  new endoglucanase gene, designated the rce1 gene,
  from Rhizopus oryzae, a member of the subdivision
  Zygomycota. In this study, two endoglucanases. .
  . .

? We previously cloned a new endoglucanase gene,
rce1, from Rhizopus oryzae, the first from a
member of the subdivision Zygomycota. Two
endoglucanases. . . .

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Introduction

• Concise only what is necessary
• Explain problem in relation to past work by other
  researchers and authors.
• Compare and contrast past work.
• New, relevant references

20
Problems with Introduction

• Too much detail (perhaps more suitable for
  Discussion), every paper cited (should not be a
  review of the literature)
• Includes areas not directly related to research
  question
• Relevant papers not included

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Materials and methods

• Was the work done well? Described well?
• Are there flaws in methods, artifacts in
  measurements?
• Are techniques appropriate to answer the
  questions, address the problem?
• Manufacturers included?

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Methods . . .

• Appropriate sample size, controls, and
  statistical tests?
• Statistics included, explained well? Citations,
  programs included?

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Problems with methods

• Too much detail of routine methods
• (e.g., size of flask)
• Do not need to include every experiment
• if poorly designed or unexpected results
  required a change in plans
• Equations and statistics examine closely for
  accuracy, correct use

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Results

• Findings and observations
• Logical order
• Tables and figures
• Point out important features, relationships
• Must be suitable for the type of data

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Problems with results

• Poor presentation
• Not complete
• Not logical order
• Not specific too general
• Irrelevant findings
• Are not related to research problem
• Data in tables, figures repeated in text
• Unnecessary tables, figures
• Can a sentence or two explain the illustrations?

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Problems with results

• Not specific too general
• Other isolates such as Alternaria alternata and
  Cladosporium species including C.
  clado-sporioides, C. oxysporum, C. tenuissimum
  and C. sphaerospermum were detected frequently
  from both cultivars and all lots. Other isolates
  such as R. stolonifer, Fusarium spp. and M.
  verrucaria were also detected at low frequencies.
  The percentages of infected or infested seeds
  were very high on new lots (Table 3), but the
  fungal flora of new lots was simpler than that of
  old ones.

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Problems with results

• Not specific too general
• The percentages of infected or infested seeds
  were very high on new lots (Table 3), but the
  fungal flora of new lots was simpler than that of
  old ones.
• Give percentages
• What does simpler mean?
• Suggest In new lots, ___ of the seeds were
  infected or infested, but fewer species were
  isolated.

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Problems with results

• Not specific too general
• In 2003, submerged application of simeconazole in
  paddy water on 15, 22, or 29 July showed potent
  efficacy against kernel smut (Table 3) The
  highest efficacy was obtained by submerged
  application on 29 July. In 2004, the fungicide
  gave excellent control against kernel smut in
  every test (Table 4).
• What does potent efficacy mean?
• What is excellent control? Excellent may
  differ in percentage depending on the particular
  disease. Give specific percentage, result with
  no fungicide.

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Tables and Figures

• Are all tables and figures present? Are all
  mentioned in the text?
• Note the first mention of every illustration.
• Evaluate presentation of data
• Is it clear and logical?
• Necessary? Or better described in text only?
• Is data organized well in table?
• Are headings appropriate, placed correctly?
• Does each column (including the first on left)
  have a heading?

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Tables and Figures

• Clearly labeled?
• Key for symbols in figures?
• Consistent with text, other tables and figures?

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Problems with Tables and Figures

• Unnecessary
• Fewer than 8 data points or many zeroes, etc.
• Incomplete captions
• Unexplained abbreviations
• Tables
• No heading above 1st column on left
• Headings with too many words
• Figures
• Caption not worded properly
• Not explained clearly

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Problems with Tables and Figures

• Incomplete captions
• Fig. 1. Natural symptoms on leaf of
  Europeanpear. (identify specific symptom, use
  arrow)
• Fig. 1. Leaf blight on European pear after
  natural infection by Rhizoctonia solani in an
  orchard.
• Fig. 5. Lesion of European pear leaf by
  artificial inoculation with R. solani.
• Fig. 5. Lesion on European pear leaf __ days
  after inoculation with Rhizoctonia solani.
• (Better to replace inoculation with type
  ofinoculation, inoculum, etc.)

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Discussion

• Should not repeat Results!
• Dont need to repeat exact data can summarize
  trend, relevance, relationships
• Should not repeat Introduction!
• Logical order usually by importance
• Places results in context of past work,
  compares/contrasts
• Significance of results are explained well and
  are justified by the data (that is, the results
  support the conclusions)

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Problems with Discussion

• Repeats the Results!
• Repeats the Introduction! Exact words!
• Plagiarism??!!
• Look for unusual wording, perfect English
• Too much speculation, not enough evidence
• Too much hedging (not willing to commit to a
  conclusion) It may possibly be that it could
  perhaps

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Literature Cited

• Be concerned if most are the authors own
  publications or none are recent (within 2-3 yrs)
• Is journal style used?

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Summary of review

• Note
• Other interpretations of data
• Errors in reasoning
• Point out problems with clarity
• Where more explanation is needed
• Suggest different wording

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Summary of review. . .

• Be helpful
• Do not say only
• Publish without change
• too specializeddo not publish
• Explain problems
• Make specific suggestions for improvement or
  revision, additional experiments or data,
  treatment of data, statistical tests

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Summary of review. . .

• Confirm (or not)
• Excellent coverage of literature and
  interpretation of results and available data
• Identify related studies
• Suggest methods, further experiments
• Suggest methods for better approaches
• Identify missed opportunities

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• Time for questions

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Tables

• Use to present specific data, relationships to
  make exact comparisons, to illustrate/make a
  point or points (idea or ideas), easier than
  describing it in the text.
• If there are lt8 data points presented in a table,
  then the data can probably be described more
  efficiently in the text rather than in a table.
• Text of article refers to main points of table,
  does not repeat all contents.

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Table organization

• Title briefly describes the experiment, data
  given, organisms and location if appropriate, and
  gives enough detail for the table to be
  understood without referring to rest of the
  article.
• The table should contain like items or compare
  like items.
• Comparisons should be down columns, not across
  lines (across rows) it is easier to read and
  compare down, rather than across.

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Table organization

• Use headings and subheadings to organize the
  data, clearly and identify the data in each
  column.
• Horizontal headings of columns should identify
  the dependent variables (measured variable).
  Items below the leftmost heading (stub head)
  identify the independent variables for the
  horizontal rows.
• Every column must have a heading. Include the
  unit of measure in the heading (not after the
  data within the table)
• Width (mm)

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Table organization

• Group items logically, include necessary controls
  and statistics.
• Define all nonstandard abbreviations and symbols
  (in caption or footnotes).
• Label footnotes with superscript letters (not
  numbers, which can be mistaken for exponents in
  the table), from left to right, top to bottom.

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Tables Critical points

• Verify all data! Check accuracy, consistency
  with text and other tables and figures (including
  labels, units of measure, abbreviations, and
  fonts).
• Can a reader understand the table without reading
  the article? The table must be able to stand
  alone.
• Simplify as much as possible.
• Proofread, proofread, proofread.

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Figure checklist

• Figure text and axis labels
• __ Between 6 and 10 pt
• __ Lightface type recommended (i.e., plain, not
  boldface)
• __ Consistent size in all figures at printed size
  of figure
• __ First letter of labels capped (or consistent
  capitalization style)

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Figure checklist

• __ Units in parentheses at end of axis labels
  Length (mm)
• __ Units written the same way as in text
• __ Multiplier dots (not bullet ) used between
  multiple units in numerator and in denominator
  (mmolm2s1)
• __ Axis label c. 0.2 cm from units on axis, no
  more than 0.5 cm x- and y-axis labels
  equidistant from axes

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Figure Checklist

• __ All appropriate words and letters in italics
  (e.g., genus, species, section, 1-letter
  constants and variables)
• __ Space before and after all operation signs
  (e.g., , ) with equations and definitions, use
  en dash (width of two hyphens) for minus sign.
• __ Make sure all abbreviations are consistent
  from figure to figure.

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Figure checklist

• Figure Panels
• __ Named with capital letters, preferably inside
  each panel
• __ Less than 0.5 cm between vertically aligned
  panels
• Multipanel Figures
• __ All panels for one figure placed in one file
  as they should appear in print
• __ Each panel labeled with letter (capital
  preferred), consistently labeled

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Figure checklist

• Micrographs and Photographs
• __ Scale bar on each image, defined in caption
• __ Type of micrograph, optical system, stains,
  etc. defined in caption
• Rules ( lines)
• __ Not less than 1 pt, not more than 2 pt
• __ Scale bar present in each micrograph

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Figure checklist

• Remember to Check File Resolution (required
  resolution may vary with journal)
• __ Line art 1200 dpi
• __ Grayscale, halftones 300 dpi
• __ Color 300 dpi
• __ Combination line art and halftone (or color)
  600 dpi
• e.g., micrographs with text or bars

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Remember . . .

• The abstract, figures, and tablesare read more
  often thanany other part of a paper.
• They must be good!
• They should be perfect.

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• Time for questions

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• American Journal of Botany
• Guidelines for Reviewers

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AJB guidelines for reviewers

• Answer yes or no
• Introduction states significant problem
• Background information adequate
• Materials, methods are appropriate and adequate
• Results are accurate, clear, substantial
• Discussion synthesizes results, reaches
  conclusion
• Research a significant contribution

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AJB guidelines for reviewers

• Give specific comments on
• Abstract
• Introduction
• Materials and methods
• Results
• Discussion
• Literature Cited
• Illustrations/Tables

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AJB review examples

• Manuscript 1. Example of good review
• Manuscript 2. Two reviews by different reviewers.
  
• Note the difference in the two reviews and the
  fact that I could not understand the English.
• Note the difference between these two reviews and
  the review for manuscript 1.

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• English Review

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Common problems

• NO Plasmid was transformed into E. coli.
• Yes E. coli was transformed with plasmid.
• Plasmid used to transform E. coli.
• Hostparasite interactions Compatible or
  incompatible
• Pathogens Virulent or avirulent
• Hosts Susceptible or resistant
• Treatment of the plant receiver
  vs. Treatment with the fungicide agent

59
Restrictive vs. nonrestrictive clauses

• 1. Three cosmid clones which include this 1599-bp
  sequence were obtained.
• 1. Three cosmid clones that include this 1599-bp
  sequence were obtained.
• 2. The species which have not been included are
  found mostly within the range of P. pterocarpum.
• 2. The species that have not been included are
  found mostly within the range of P. pterocarpum.

60
Restrictive vs. nonrestrictive

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

61
Restrictive vs. nonrestrictive

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

62
Restrictive vs. nonrestrictive

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

63
Restrictive vs. nonrestrictive

• 6. The dependence in these analyses on
  chloroplast data may cause some difficulties in
  confirming the relationships in the American
  species of Parkinsonia that have shown marked
  hybridization.
• 6. Two ways, depending on situation If all
  American species of Parkinsonia have marked
  hybridization, then use which or that with a
  comma preceding (American species of
  Parkinsonia, which nonrestrictive clause). If
  only some of the American species have marked
  hybridization, then use that without a comma
  (American species of Parkinsonia that
  restrictive clause). Note that shown was
  deleted from have shown marked it was
  unnecessary.

64
Restrictive vs. nonrestrictive

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

65
Restrictive vs. nonrestrictive

• 8. Within Parkinsonia, the African species form a
  well-supported clade that is recovered in every
  analysis, with the East African species, P.
  anacantha, P. raimondoi, and P. scioana, being
  more closely related to each other than to the
  southern African species, P. africana.
• 8. It is correct as is, because there may be
  other well-support clades that are not recovered
  in every analysis (that is, they are
  well-supported in only some analyses.

66
Restrictive vs. nonrestrictive

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

67
Restrictive vs. nonrestrictive

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

68
As/Because

• If you can replace as with because, then you
  must use because. (As you read as, as can
  be be read as while or as this event occurred,
  so did another.
• 1. As the interaction between the slope position
  and the covariable was never significant, the
  results of ANCOVA without an interaction term are
  presented.
• 1. Because the interaction between the slope
  position and the covariable was never
  significant, the results of ANCOVA without an
  interaction term are presented.

69
As/Because

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

70
Respectively

• 1. The asymptotic maximum heights of F. crenata
  were estimated to be 12.9 and 21.6 m in the ridge
  and valley subplots, respectively.
• 1. The asymptotic maximum heights of F. crenata
  were estimated to be 12.9 m in the ridge and 21.6
  m in the valley subplots.
• (Try not the use of respectively.)

71
Repeating to, by, of

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

72
Repeating to, by, of

• 1. A critical position for Oedopodium
  corroborates the results of Newton et al. (2000)
  from combined analyses of morphology and four
  plastid DNA regions and Goffinet et al. (2001)
  based on a taxon-extensive analysis of plastid
  rps4 sequences.
• 1. A critical position for Oedopodium
  corroborates the results of Newton et al. (2000)
  from combined analyses of morphology and four
  plastid DNA regions and of Goffinet et al. (2001)
  based on a taxon-extensive analysis of plastid
  rps4 sequences.

73
Repeating to, by, of

• 3. Schizolobium is distinguished from the other
  members of the Peltophorum group s.s. by the lack
  of stipules and the fruit morphology and
  dehiscence type.
• 3. Schizolobium is distinguished from the other
  members of the Peltophorum group s.s. by the lack
  of stipules and by the fruit morphology and
  dehiscence type.

74
Nounverb agreement

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

75
Nounverb agreement

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

76
Nounverb agreement

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

77
Nounverb agreement

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

78
Nounverb agreement

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

79
Nounverb agreement

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

80
Nounverb agreement

• 7. Comparative volume and concentration of nectar
  is shown in Table 3.
• 7. Comparative volume and concentration of nectar
  are shown in Table 3.
• 8. The increase in Estr toward the base and lack
  of secondary growth in Desmoncus is not at all
  consistent with such strategies.
• 8. The increase in Estr toward the base and lack
  of secondary growth in Desmoncus are not at all
  consistent with such strategies.

81
Nounpronoun agreement

• The severity of this fitness disadvantages may
  depend on environmental conditions.
• Use either these disadvantages OR this
  disadvantage match the number of the pronoun
  to the noun

82
Ambiguous pronoun reference

• The tip of the germ tubes changed into
  appressorial structures only when they reached a
  ridge on the root surface. Which plural noun
  does they refer to?
• They reached a ridge refers to the tip or to
  germ tubes (not structures) The tip of the
  germ tubes differentiated into an appressorial
  structure only when they reached a ridge on the
  root surface. OR Only when the germ tube
  reached a ridge on the root surface did the tip
  of the germ tube differentiate into an
  appressorial structure.

83
Em dash

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

84
Em dash

• 2. The three spruce species sampled, the North
  American and sympatric Picea glauca and P.
  mariana, and the North Eurasian P. abies are
  dominant in their ecosystem with large natural
  ranges.
• 2. The three spruce species sampledthe North
  American, sympatric Picea glauca and P. mariana
  and the North Eurasian P. abiesare dominant in
  their ecosystems with large natural ranges.
  For clarity now we know that the list does not
  include 3 spruce spp P. glauca, mariana and
  abies. also note comma deleted after mariana

85
Hyphen

• In such a slowly-evolving genus as Picea,
  achieving reproductive isolation is generally
  indicative of large divergence.
• 1. In such a slowly evolving genus as Picea,
  achieving reproductive isolation is generally
  indicative of large divergence.

86
Hyphen

• 2. They also represent divergent taxa in terms of
  morphology, with deep phylogenetic branching in
  the genus, as shown by phylogenies based on
  paternally-inherited cpDNA.
• 2. They also represent divergent taxa in terms of
  morphology, with deep phylogenetic branching in
  the genus, as shown by phylogenies based on
  paternally inherited cpDNA.
• 3. Interestingly, nonsynonymous substitutions are
  significantly elevated within the putative DNA
  binding domain of one of the Lamiales FLO
  paralogs.
• 3. Interestingly, nonsynonymous substitutions are
  significantly elevated within the putative
  DNA-binding domain of one of the Lamiales FLO
  paralogs.

87
Commas and semicolons

• 1. Allele genealogies did not match species
  phylogenies and species lineages were not
  reciprocally monophyletic.
• 1. Allele genealogies did not match species
  phylogenies, and species lineages were not
  reciprocally monophyletic.
• 2. Our cloning experiments and phylogenetic
  analyses of UFO, FIM, and UFO/FIM-like homologs
  including the eight UFO/FIM-like genes we
  identified among Lamiales taxa provide little
  convincing evidence regarding copy number in
  Lamiales.
• 2. Our cloning experiments and phylogenetic
  analyses of UFO, FIM, and UFO/FIM-like homologs,
  including the eight UFO/FIM-like genes we
  identified among Lamiales taxa, provide little
  convincing evidence regarding copy number in
  Lamiales.

88
Commas and semicolons

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

89
Commas and semicolons

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

90
Commas and semicolons

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

91
Commas and semicolons

• 6. The stigmatic surfaces often break off or
  abrade at this stage, however, the styles and
  their triangular bases typically persist. With
  desiccation the styles and style bases become
  vertically striate.
• 6. The stigmatic surfaces often break off or
  abrade at this stage however, the styles and
  their triangular bases typically persist. With
  desiccation, the styles and style bases become
  vertically striate.
• 7. The outer floral whorl consists of five,
  large, overlapping sepals which are green at
  anthesis.
• 7. The outer floral whorl consists of five,
  large, overlapping sepals, which are green at
  anthesis. . If there are only five sepals and
  all are like this.

92
Commas and semicolons

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

93
Commas and semicolons

• 9. Our study was undertaken to evaluate the
  circumscription of Euphorbiaceae s.s. and
  monophyly of suprageneric taxa recognized in
  recent classifications, and to elucidate patterns
  of infrafamilial relationships and character
  evolution.
• 9. Our study was undertaken to evaluate the
  circumscription of Euphorbiaceae s.s. and
  monophyly of suprageneric taxa recognized in
  recent classifications and to elucidate patterns
  of infrafamilial relationships and character
  evolution.
• 10. Alignments of rbcL were easily managed by eye
  whereas trnL-F sequences were aligned with
  CLUSTAL W.
• 10. Alignments of rbcL were easily managed by
  eye, whereas trnL-F sequences were aligned with
  CLUSTAL W.

94
Commas and semicolons

• 11. The trnL intron ranged in length from 419
  (Aubletiana) to 759 bp (Euphorbia epithymoides)
  but most accessions fell between 500 and 545 bp.
  The trnL-F intergenic spacer ranged from 135
  (Adenocline pauciflora) to 476 bp (Julocroton)
  but most were 370440 bp.
• 11. The trnL intron ranged in length from 419
  (Aubletiana) to 759 bp (Euphorbia epithymoides),
  but most accessions fell between 500 and 545 bp.
  The trnL-F intergenic spacer ranged from 135
  (Adenocline pauciflora) to 476 bp (Julocroton),
  but most were 370440 bp.

95
Commas and semicolons

• 12. Among species with a single palisade L.
  formosana has cells with thin walls while in L.
  styraciflua and L. orientalis cells have a
  prominent thickening on the inner tangential
  wall.
• 12. Among species with a single palisade, L.
  formosana has cells with thin walls, while in L.
  styraciflua and L. orientalis, cells have a
  prominent thickening on the inner tangential
  wall.
• introductory without the comma, single
  palisade seems to describe L. formosa

96
Commas and semicolons

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

97
Prepositions

• 1. This pathogen usually does not colonize on the
  external surface of the infected fruits.
• 1. This pathogen usually does not colonize the
  external surface of the infected fruits. on
  is part of the meaning of colonize
• 2. In the trials under screenhouses, the cloves
  were sown in furrows 30 cm apart.
• 2. In the trials in screenhouses, the cloves were
  sown in furrows 30 cm apart. in enclosed,
  inside the structure

98
Prepositions

• 3. The seeds were separated in groups of 25
  seeds.
• 3. The seeds were separated into groups of 25
  seeds.

99
Both

• 1. These two BamHI fragments were contiguous.
  Both of the two fragments were sublconed.
• 1. These two BamHI fragments were contiguous.
  Both fragments were sublconed. Dont use two
  with both both two
• 2. These facts indicated that the both fragments
  were not contiguous.
• 2. These facts indicated that neither of the
  fragments were contiguous. OR These facts
  indicated that the two fragments were not
  contiguous. never the both

100
But/and (opposing,contrasting)

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

101
Phasing with other

• Two clones were almost identical as for the
  position of Tn5 insertion, whereas other three
  clones were totally independent.
• Two clones were almost identical as to the
  position of Tn5 insertion, whereas three other
  clones were totally independent.
• If the three other clones was written, then
  the phrase is referring to three other clones
  that were previously mentioned. In this case,
  they are introduced here for the first time.

102
Phasing with other

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

103
Adverb

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

104
Word choice, phrasing

• 1. Differences among isolates in the M.
  elegans-M. paludosa clade were less than 2 bp.
• 1. Isolates in the M. elegans-M. paludosa clade
  differed by less than 2 bp.
• 2. Using Physalis floridana as the host plant for
  replication, extraction, clarification, and
  purification by sucrose density gradient
  centrifugation of the causal virus were
  performed.
• 2. With Physalis floridana as the host plant for
  replication, the causal virus was extracted,
  clarified, and purified by sucrose density
  gradient centrifugation.

105
Word choice, phrasing

• 3. Apart from Campsiandra, for genera containing
  more than a single species, at least two species
  were included in at least one analysis.
• 3. For genera containing more than a single
  species (except for Campsiandra), we included at
  least two species in at least one analysis.
• 4. For tough, leathery leaves, autoclaved sand
  was used in grinding the leaves.
• 4. Autoclaved sand was used to grind tough,
  leathery leaves.

106
Word Choice, phrasing

• 5. All five comparisons showed a positive
  association between average individual growth
  rate and average palatability to a native slug
  species were positively associated.
• 5. All five comparisons had a positive
  association between mean individual growth rate
  and mean palatability to a native slug species.
• OR better, change tion noun into verb In all
  five comparisons, mean individual growth rate and
  mean palatability to a native slug species were
  positively associated correlated?.

107
Word Choice, phrasing

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

108
Word choice, phrasing

• 7. The woody species included proportionately
  more dioecious species (22 57), and herbs had
  proportionately less dioecious species than
  expected from a random distribution.
• 7. The woody species included proportionately
  more dioecious species (22 57), and herbs had
  proportionately fewer dioecious species than
  expected from a random distribution. fewer
  countable nouns, less noncountable does 22
  57, is N 57?

109
Word choice, phrasing

• 8. The fossil flora is undoubtedly less well
  sampled than the extant flora.
• 8. The fossil flora are undoubtedly not as well
  sampled as the extant flora. Do not use opposing
  adjectives (less vs. well) collective noun,
  flora, is treated as plural.
• 9. Zoospores at this stage attached to the root
  surface or the surface of the SEM pore membrane
  usually at their dorsal surface.
• 9. Zoospores at this stage attached, usually at
  their refers zoospores dorsal surface, to the
  root or the SEM pore membrane. can omit
  surface, understood to attach to the surface

110
Word Choice, phrasing

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

111
Verb tense

• 1. Since then, we have been isolated 450 cultures
  of X. oryzae pv. oryzae.
• 1. Since then, we have isolated 450 cultures of
  X. oryzae pv. oryzae. continued over time,
  completed action Since then, we have been
  isolating cultures of X. oryzae pv. Oryzae.
  continuing from past into present
• 2. During 2002-2003, we have isolated 450.
• 2. During 2002-2003, we isolated 450.
  completed action

112
Verb tense

• 3. Apart from Campsiandra, for genera containing
  more than a single species, at least two species
  have been included in at least one analysis.
• 3. Apart from Campsiandra, for genera with more
  than a single species, at least two species were
  included in at least one analysis. single
  occurrence in the past

113
Verb tense

• 4. Agrobacterium radiobacter biovar 3 has been
  isolated as a cohabitant with A. tumefaciens
  biovar 3 in soil, in apparently healthy plant
  tissues, and in galls in the USA (Burr et al.
  1987).
• 4. Agrobacterium radiobacter biovar 3 was
  isolated as a cohabitant with A. tumefaciens
  biovar 3 in soil, in apparently healthy plant
  tissues, and in galls in the USA (Burr et al.
  1987).

114
Miscellaneous problems

• 1. The genomic DNA was digested with XbaI and
  SacI, of which the sites are located at the 5?
  and 3? ends of the gene, respectively.
• 1. The genomic DNA was digested with XbaI and
  SacI, which has restriction sites at the 5? and
  3? ends of the gene, respectively.
• 2. It is likely that these fragments might be due
  to some rearrangements of the transgene DNA
  during transformation.
• 2. These fragments are likely to be due to
  rearrangements of the transgenic DNA during
  transformation.

115
Miscellaneous problems

• 3. Topics to be addressed in a future study
  include testing the monophyly and determining the
  systematic position of Forsteronia in the
  Mesechiteae, defining the generic circumscription
  of Allomarkgrafia, Macrosiphonia, and
  Telosiphonia, testing the monophyly of the
  currently recognized sections within Mandevilla,
  and elucidating character evolution and the
  biogeographic history of the group.
• 3. Topics to be addressed in a future study
  include testing the monophyly and determining the
  systematic position of Forsteronia in the
  Mesechiteae defining the generic circumscription
  of Allomarkgrafia, Macrosiphonia, and
  Telosiphonia testing the monophyly of the
  currently recognized sections within Mandevilla
  and elucidating character evolution and the
  biogeographic history of the group. series
  within a series

116
Miscellaneous problems

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

117
Miscellaneous problems

• 5. In our analyses, the clade comprising Delonix,
  Colvillea, and Lemuropisum is well supported as
  monophyletic, characterized principally by the
  presence of a valvate calyx (also seen in
  Cordeauxia and Moldenhawera), the sepals of which
  do not reflex at anthesis.
• 5. In our analyses, the clade comprising Delonix,
  Colvillea, and Lemuropisum is well supported as
  monophyletic, characterized principally by the
  presence of a valvate calyx (also seen in
  Cordeauxia and Moldenhawera), which has sepals
  that do not reflex at anthesis. avoid of which

118
Miscellaneous problems

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

119
Miscellaneous problems

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

120
Miscellaneous problems

• 8. Alignments of rbcL were easily managed by eye
  whereas trnL-F sequences were aligned with
  CLUSTAL W.
• 8. Alignments of rbcL were easily managed by eye,
  whereas trnL-F sequences were aligned with
  CLUSTAL W.
• Better The rbcL sequences were easily aligned
  by eye, whereas trnL-F sequences were aligned
  with CLUSTAL W.

121
Miscellaneous problems

• 9. The trnL intron ranged in length from 419
  (Aubletiana) to 759 bp (E. epithymoides) but most
  accessions fell between 500 and 545 bp. The
  trnL-F intergenic spacer ranged from 135 (A.
  pauciflora) to 476 bp (Julocroton) but most were
  370440 bp.
• 9. The trnL intron ranged in length from 419
  (Aubletiana) to 759 bp (E. epithymoides), but
  most accessions fell between 500 and 545 bp. The
  trnL-F intergenic spacer ranged from 135 (A.
  pauciflora) to 476 bp (Julocroton), but most were
  370440 bp.

122
Miscellaneous problems

• 10. Although viable seeds of S. maritimus were
  found only in the surface we found large numbers
  of non-viable seeds of all three species at all
  depths.
• 10. Although viable seeds of S. maritimus were
  found only on the surface, we found large numbers
  of nonviable seeds of all three species at all
  depths.
• 11. The innermost palisade layer lining varies in
  cell number and anatomy.
• 11. Eliminate the noun stack we have to ask the
  author Do you mean the innermost lining of the
  palisade layer or the lining of the innermost
  palisade layer?

123
Miscellaneous problems

• 12. Approximately 86 h of observations were
  carried out at the five sites over a period of 22
  d to determine the pollinators of Z. microsiphon
  and D. nivea.
• 12. We observed Z. microsiphon and D. nivea at
  the five sites for c. 86 h over 22 d to determine
  the pollinators. change -tion noun into verb,
  eliminate unnecessary words

124
Miscellaneous problems

• 13. In this study, alleles for each of three
  nuclear gene loci were sampled, sequenced and
  compared among three distantly-related biological
  species in the genus Picea.
• 13. In this study, alleles for each of three
  nuclear gene loci were sampled, sequenced and
  compared among three distantly related biological
  species in the genus Picea.
• 14. Using the difference in their infectivity to
  cowpea, the origin of the RNA 2 in SATIs and SLIs
  was characterized.
• 14. Using the difference in their infectivity to
  cowpea, we characterized the origin of the RNA 2
  in SATIs and SLIs. dangling modifier

125
Miscellaneous problems

• 15. This method paved the way for purification of
  PLRV, and was applied to purification of other
  luteoviruses.
• 15. This method paved the way for purification of
  PLRV and was used to purify other luteoviruses.

126
Miscellaneous problems

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

127
Miscellaneous problems

• 17. Using this antiserum, a rapid diagnosis by
  immunoelectronmicroscopy and ELISA were developed
  and introduced with official appproval into seed
  potato production.
• 17. Using this antiserum with immunoelectron
  microscopy and ELISA, we developed a rapid
  diagnostic method, which was introduced with
  official appproval into seed potato production.
  dangling modifier

128
Miscellaneous problems

• 18. We confirmed Myzus persicae as vector of
  PLRV, as well as Aulacorthum solani and A.
  euphorbie, and revealed involvement of the three
  aphids in transmission of PLRV in Japan.
• 18. We confirmed Myzus persicae as a vector of
  PLRV, as are Aulacorthum solani and A. euphorbie,
  and revealed involvement of the three aphids in
  transmission of PLRV in Japan. Use a
  there is more than one vector someone else
  confirmed the other two as vectors.
• OR We confirmed Myzus persicae, as well as
  Aulacor-thum solani and A. euphorbie, as vectors
  of PLRV no comma and revealed involvement of
  the three aphids in transmission of PLRV in
  Japan. The authors confirmed all three as
  vectors.

129
Multiple problems

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

130
Multiple problems

• 2. Presence of a terminal oligo-pyrimidine tract
  in its transcript suggests that HaABRC5 is a TOP
  gene, and that its expression is regulated in
  relationship to plant cell growth.
• 2. Because of the presence of a terminal
  oligo-pyrimidine tract in its transcript, HaABRC5
  may be a TOP gene and its expression may be
  regulated in relationship to plant cell growth.

131
Multiple problems

• 3. Carbon catabolite repression of fungal PGs was
  reported for Fusarium oxysporum f. sp.
  lycopersici, Aspergillus niger, A. nidulans,
  Cochliobolus carbonum race 1 and Penicillium
  expansum multiple citations given.
• 3. Carbon catabolite repression of fungal PGs has
  been reported for Fusarium oxysporum f. sp.
  lycopersici, Aspergillus niger, A. nidulans,
  Cochliobolus carbonum race 1 and Penicillium
  expansum. reports over time, use progressive
  has been

132
Multiple problems

• 4. Inverse-correlation between the accumulation
  of mRNA in GFP silenced transgenic Nicotiana
  benthamiana and the resistance to GFP
  gene-carrying Potato virus X title?
• 4. mRNA levels in GFP-silenced transgenic
  Nicotiana benthamiana is inversely correlated
  with resistance to GFP-transformed Potato virus X
  no hyphen in inverse correlation

133
Multiple problems

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

134
Multiple problems

• 6. The posterior flagellum of Oomycete zoospores
  is believed to be involved in steering the
  swimming zoospores by the anterior flagellum.
  Although in phytopathogenic zoosporic fungi, the
  role of posterior flagellum on contacting host
  before encystment has been proposed by the
  several researchers, the evidence supporting this
  view has been lacking hitherto.
• 6. The posterior flagellum of Oomycete zoospores
  may be involved with the anterior flagellum in
  steering the swimming zoospores. Although in
  phytopatho-genic zoosporic fungi, the role of the
  posterior flagellum in contacting the host before
  encystment has been proposed by several
  researchers, the evidence supporting this view
  has hitherto been lacking.

135
M