Gibberellins application timing modulates growth, physiology, and quality characteristics of two onion (Allium cepa L.) cultivars.

Lack of scientific literature exists regarding the effects of gibberellic acid (GA3) application timings on various phenological and physiological aspects of seed crop of locally available onion cultivars. Therefore, current study was planned in Vegetable Research Area, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad to optimize the growth stage for GA3 application on seed production in two local onion cultivars (Phulkara and Dark Red) during 2013 and 2014. Application timings of gibberellins at 100 mg/L of H2O were as (G1) control (no spray), (G2) foliar application at 2-3 leaf stage, (G3) foliar application at 6-7 leaf stage, and (G4) foliar application at the time of flowering. Data on average of both years showed that tallest plants (66.15 cm) and maximum number of leaves per plant (84.56) were noted in cv. Phulkara when GA3 was applied at 2-3 leaf stage. Minimum number of days to initiate flowering (47.92) and maximum number of umbels per plant (15.45) were noted with GA3 application at 6-7 leaf stage in Phulkara and Dark Red, respectively. The highest seed yield per umbel (2.94 g) was recorded in cv. Dark Red when GA3 sprayed at 6-7 leaf stage, while GA3 application at the time of flowering in the cv. Phulkara produced seeds with highest seedling vigor index (586.79). Overall, it appears that seed yield and quality characters were promoted by the application of GA3 at different growth stages and could be valuable for seed production of onion.

Domestic violence, mental illness and suicidal ideation--a study from Lahore, Pakistan.

BACKGROUND: Suicidal ideation is an indicator of psychological distress and a proportion of people reporting suicidal ideation attempt or commits suicide. Mental illness of any type is strongly associated with suicidal ideation. Furthermore, the links between exposure to domestic violence and mental health problems are well established. Furthermore, a number of studies have reported an association between domestic violence and suicidal ideation. AIMS: To study the link between domestic violence, mental health and suicidal ideation. METHOD: Using data from a group of 650 Pakistani women, we explored the putative predictors of suicidal ideation using univariate and multiple logistic regression. Significant predictors were then entered into a path analysis in order to evaluate both the direct and indirect effects of domestic violence on the odds of a study participant reporting suicidal ideation. Results Mental disorders were observed to significantly predict suicidal ideation. Ability to negotiate conflict between couples appeared to both directly and indirectly, via mitigation against mental disorder, protect against suicidal ideation. CONCLUSIONS: The effect of verbal aggression on suicidal ideation appeared to be mostly mediated via its impact on mental health.