The effects of surface variation on the decomposition of pig carcasses.

Studies investigating the differential decomposition of remains on different surfaces have been limited to qualitative data. This study statistically analyses the differences in rate and pattern of decomposition between concrete, gravel and grass surfaces. A total of 11 pigs (Sus scrofa domesticus) were used in the study: three for the concrete and gravel surfaces each, and 5 for the grass surface.

Multiplex RT-PCR detection of three common viruses infecting orchids.

A multiplex reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay was developed for simultaneous detection of three orchid viruses: cymbidium mosaic virus (CymMV), odontoglossum ringspot virus (ORSV), and orchid fleck virus (OFV). Primers were used to amplify nucleocapsid protein gene fragments of 845 bp (ORSV), 505 bp (CymMV) and 160 bp (OFV). A 60-bp amplicon of plant glyceraldehyde-3-phophate dehydrogenase mRNA was included as an internal control against false negatives.

The influence of insects on decomposition rate in buried and surface remains.

This article reports results of a comparative study of decomposition rates of wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) which were either (i) buried after exposure to insect activity, (ii) buried without exposure, (iii) kept above ground behind an insect screen, or (iv) continuously exposed above ground in a field experiment. Results showed that dipteran oviposition occurred consistently in groups i and iv only. Decomposition rates (measured by Total Body Score every c.