An inhibitory effect of excess moisture on the early development of Sinapis alba L. seedlings

Abstract. Mustard seedlings in the early stages of growth are sensitive to the presence of excess moisture, growth of the radicle and anthocyanin synthesis being retarded by water at a suction of less than 3 cm water for seedlings growing on a plane surface. This inhibitory effect commences at about 12-15 h from wetting of the seed. It can be counteracted by increasing the partial pressure of oxygen in the atmosphere or by de-coating the seed, suggesting that the inhibition is caused by a restricted flow of oxygen through the mucilaginous seed coat. The positive effect of gravity on anthocyanin synthesis in the developing seedling can be wholly accounted for in terms of the removal of excess moisture. This explanation largely accounts for the improved growth of the root, but a tonic effect of gravity on root growth can also be discerned.     

The auxiliary treatment of psychotic women; group therapy for their husbands

Group therapy for the husbands of hospitalized psychotic women relieved the anxiety and feeling of guilt of the husbands and led to better communication between husband and wife. It was particularly helpful just before and after the wife came home from the hospital. The group meetings saved various members of the hospital staff considerable time which they otherwise would have had to devote to the husbands individually.