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In the Tomato cultivation in the lowlands, environmental factors such as temperature and humidity are things that need to be considered in order to increase the growth and production of tomatoes. Therefore, it is necessary to modify the environmental conditions with applying mulch, such as plastic mulch or organic mulch. In addition, increased production can be done by fertilizing potassium nitrate (KNO3) which is more practical to use because it has two nutrient contents, namely potassium and nitrogen. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of the interaction between mulch and potassium nitrate (KNO3) on the growth and production of tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum Mill.). This study used a completely randomized design (CRD) with two factorials. The first factor was the type of mulch which consists of 4 levels of treatment, which are without mulch, black silver plastic mulch, rice straw mulch, reed mulch. The second factor was the concentration of potassium nitrate (KNO3) which consists of 4 levels of treatment, namely 0, 3, 6, 9 g / l. Each treatment was repeated 3 times, in order to obtain 48 experimental units. The results showed that the interaction effect of the type of mulch and potassium nitrate (KNO3) was significant on the parameters of plant height, harvest age, number of fruits per plant, fruit weight per plant, fruit weight per fruit, and number of residual fruits. The best treatment combination was the use of rice straw mulch and a concentration of 9 g/l KNO3 fertilizer.

Human activities have significantly accelerated emissions of each carbon dioxide and biologically reactive nitrogen into the atmosphere. As nitrogen availability frequently limits forest productivity, it has long been anticipated that anthropogenic nitrogen deposition ought to stimulate carbon sequestration in forests. The present study aimed to understand the effects of nitrogen addition on the growth of the Syzygium cumini in ambient (408 ppm) and elevated (450 ppm, 500 ppm, 550 ppm and 600 ppm) carbon dioxide conditions. The addition of nitrogen in the form of potassium nitrate in different levels (0, 3, 6, 12, & 24 g N m−2) was used in this study. The responses of the plant in terms of growth (shoot length, leaf length and leaf width) were examined. Multiple regression equation was used for the model fit to determine the carbon content. The carbon content was found to be higher in all ambient and elevated CO2 conditions at the nitrogen addition level of 24 g N m−2.

The reaction of sea salt (or biomass burning) particles with sulfuric acid and nitric acid leads to the displacement of chloride relative to sodium (or potassium). We have developed a new particle mass spectrometer to quantify non-refractory and refractory sulfate aerosols (referred to as refractory aerosol thermal desorption mass spectrometer: rTDMS). The combination of a graphite particle collector and a carbon dioxide laser enables high desorption temperature (blackbody equivalent radiation temperature of up to 930 ∘C). Ion signals originating from evolved gas molecules are detected by a quadrupole mass spectrometer. Here we propose a new method to quantify the mass concentrations of sodium nitrate (NaNO3: SN), sodium chloride (NaCl: SC), sodium sulfate (Na2SO4: SS), potassium nitrate (KNO3: PN), potassium chloride (KCl: PC), and potassium sulfate (K2SO4: PS) particles by using the rTDMS. Laboratory experiments were performed to test the sensitivities of the rTDMS to various types of particles. We measured ion signals originating from single-component particles for each compound and found a good linearity (r2>0.8) between the major ion signals and mass loadings. We also measured ion signals originating from internally mixed SN + SC + SS (or PN + PC + PS) particles and found that the temporal profiles of ion signals at m/z 23 (Na+) (or 39; K+) were characterized by three sequential peaks associated with the evolution of the desorption temperature. We tested potential interferences in the quantification of sea salt particles under real-world conditions by artificially generating “modified” sea salt particles from a mixture of diluted seawater and SN (or SS) solution. The SS/SC ratios estimated from the ion signals at m/z 23, 36 (H35Cl+), and 48 (SO+) agreed well with those predicted from the solution concentrations to within ∼10 %. The SN/SC ratios estimated from the ion signals at m/z 30 (NO+) and 36 also agreed with those predicted from the solution concentrations to within ∼15 %, whereas the SN/SC ratios estimated from m/z 23 were significantly lower than the predicted values. Based on these experimental results, the applicability of the rTDMS to ambient measurements of sea salt particles is discussed.

Background: Dietary nitrate consumption can increase concentrations of nitrate and nitrite in blood, saliva, and urine. Whether the change in concentrations is influenced by age is currently unknown. Objectives: We aimed to measure changes in nitrate and nitrite concentrations in plasma, urine, and saliva and exhaled NO concentrations after single incremental doses of dietary nitrate in young and older healthy adults. Methods: Twelve young (18–35 y old) and 12 older (60–75 y old) healthy, nonsmoking participants consumed single doses of 100 g, 200 g, 300 g whole beetroot (BR) and 1000 mg potassium nitrate (positive control) ≥7 d apart in a crossover, randomized clinical trial. Plasma nitrate and nitrite concentrations and exhaled NO concentrations were measured over a 5-h period. Salivary nitrate and nitrite concentrations were measured over a 12-h period and urinary nitrate over a 24-h period. Time, intervention, age, and interaction effects were measured with repeated-measures ANOVAs. Results: Dose-dependent increases were seen in plasma, salivary, and urinary nitrate after BR ingestion (all P ≤ 0.002) but there were no differences between age groups at baseline (all P ≥ 0.56) or postintervention (all P ≥ 0.12). Plasma nitrite concentrations were higher in young than older participants at baseline (P = 0.04) and after consumption of 200 g (P = 0.04; +25.7 nmol/L; 95% CI: 0.97, 50.3 nmol/L) and 300 g BR (P = 0.02; +50.3 nmol/L; 95% CI: 8.57, 92.1 nmol/L). Baseline fractional exhaled NO (FeNO) concentrations were higher in the younger group [P = 0.03; +8.60 parts per billion (ppb); 95% CI: 0.80, 16.3 ppb], and rose significantly over the 5-h period, peaking 5 h after KNO3 consumption (39.4 ± 4.5 ppb; P < 0.001); however, changes in FeNO were not influenced by age (P = 0.276). Conclusions: BR is a source of bioavailable dietary nitrate in both young and older adults and can effectively raise nitrite and nitrate concentrations. Lower plasma nitrite and FeNO concentrations were found in older subjects, confirming the impact of ageing on NO bioavailability across different systems. This trial was registered at www.isrctn.com as ISRCTN86706442.

The temperature dependences of the permittivity, the amplitude of the third harmonic and the differential thermal analysis signal for the (KNO3)(1–x)/(RbNO3)x composite were studied. To obtain (KNO3)(1–x)/(RbNO3)x samples, KNO3 and RbNO3 powders with a particle size of 5–10 µm were used. The powders were mixed in appropriate proportions, after that the tablets were made from them at a pressure of 8•103 kg/cm2. The samples with x from 0.05 to 0.5 were used for the study (where x is the volume fraction of RbNO3). The obtained samples before measurements were heated to a temperature of 593 K, which is higher than the melting point of RbNO3, but lower than KNO3. It has been found that an increase in the RbNO3 content leads to the appearance of additional phase transitions and the expansion of the temperature region of the ferroelectric phase existence. The transition temperatures for potassium nitrate do not shift with respect to temperature. For rubidium nitrate, the phase transition at 437 K decreases by 4–5 K, and the temperature hysteresis of this transition increases. The expansion of the ferroelectric phase upon cooling is explained by the superposition of the ferroelectric phases of potassium nitrate and the RbxK(1–x)NO3 solid solution., Исследованы температурные зависимости диэлектрической проницаемости, амплитуды третьей гармоники и сигнала ДТА для композита (KNO3)(1–x)/(RbNO3)x. Установлено, что увеличение содержания RbNO3 приводит к возникновению дополнительных фазовых переходов и расширению температурного интервала существования сегнетоэлектрической фазы.

The burning of agricultural waste is a major cause of environmental pollution. In this study, we sought to prepare biochar from agricultural waste as a source material for the preparation of carbon nanoparticles (CNPs). Surface morphology, hydrodynamic particle size, and purity and crystallinity of CNPs were extensively investigated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), zeta sizing, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy, respectively. The CNPs were subsequently immersed in a solution of potassium nitrate (KNO3) to prepare a CNPs/NK nanocomposite (CNPs loaded with nitrogen (N) and potassium (K)) as a nanocomposite fertilizer for common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). The CNPs/NK nanocomposite was sprayed as a foliar fertilizer at 0, 10, 20, 30, and 40 mg L–1 on common bean plants 25 d after sowing on a farm in Shebin El-Kom, El-Monifia, Egypt. The growth, yield, and quality of common bean were investigated during two successive growing seasons (2017 and 2018). The highest seed yields of 2.04 and 2.01 t ha–1 and the highest values of growth parameters including plant height of 61.5 and 59.2 cm, number of leaves per plant of 35 and 35, number of flowers per plant of 83.3 and 82.7, and plant fresh weight of 148.7 and 152.8 g plant–1 were obtained when using the CNPs/NK nanocomposite at a concentration of 20 mg L–1 during the 2017 and 2018 growing seasons, respectively.

This study was carried out in 2022 in the Field Crops Laboratory of Ordu University Faculty of Agriculture in order to determine the effects of different salt (NaCl) and potassium nitrate (KNO3) applications on the germination properties of dent corn maize. Four different NaCl concentrations (0-100-200 and 400 mM) and four different KNO3 concentrations (0-0.5-1 and 2 mM) were applied to corn seeds. The experiment was established the factorial design in randomized plots with 3 replications. In the study, germination rate (%), average germination time (days), radicular fresh and dry weight (g), plumule fresh and dry weight (g), radicular length (mm) and plumule length (mm) values were calculated. As a result of the study, the effects of NaCl applications were significant at the level of 1% in all the examined properties, while the effect of KNO3 applications was significant at the level of 1% on germination rate, at the level of 5% on plumule length, and the effect on other examined properties was found to be insignificant. The effect of NaClxKNO3 interactions was significant at the 1% level on the germination rate, 5% on the average germination time, plumule length and radicle length, while the effect on other properties was insignificant. With the increase of NaCl doses, decreases occurred in all the examined properties, while decreases were observed in the inhibitory effect of NaCl with KNO3 applications. As a result of the regression analysis, it was determined that the highest decrease in the properties occurred at NaCl doses of 200 mM and above, and the plant was stressed at a dose of 200 mM in maize.

Nitrate deposits are rare worldwide, especially potassium nitrate deposits; furthermore, their genesis remains disputed. There is a rare salt-lake type potassium nitrate deposit in the Dawadi area of Lop Nor at the eastern margin of the Tarim Basin, and the ore bodies show coexisting solid and liquid phases. Additionally, there are large sulphate-type potash deposits in the adjoining Luobei Depression, south of the Dawadi area. To determine why there are two different types of potash deposits in adjacent depressions with similar climates, field geological surveys were conducted and samples collected. It was found that the Tertiary clastic layer at the periphery of the Dawadi deposit was rich in high-salinity brine, with nitrate contents of up to 495–16,719 mg/L, much higher than those in the Luobei Depression, 1–35 mg/L. Additionally, a type of deep hydrothermal (Ca–Cl) brine was found in the fault zones, with nitrate contents of up to 8044 mg/L, dozens of times greater than that of ordinary groundwater. Using comprehensive analysis and research, we concluded that the Dawadi and Luobei depressions belong to different hydrological systems with no connection between them; thus, the two deposits belong to different metallogenic systems. Furthermore, groundwater played an important role in the mineralization of the potassium nitrate deposit, and a deep source may have been an important source of the ore-forming materials. The fault system widely developed in Lop Nor provides favorable channels for deep hydrothermal recharge, and the groundwater and deep hydrothermal brine could provide the source for the nitrate mineralization in the Dawadi Depression through water–rock reactions.

Introduction The purpose of this study was to compare clinically and radiographically the effects of potassium nitrate in polycarboxylate cement and mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) as pulpotomy agents in vital immature mandibular first molars. Methods The trial design was a parallel randomized, 1:1 allocation ratio, with both the participants and the data assessor blinded. A total of 50 molars of 48 eligible children aged 6–9 years were studied. The children had mandibular immature first molars with extensive caries that revealed pulp exposure during caries excavation. Patients were randomly allocated equally into 2 groups in which potassium nitrate in polycarboxylate cement (the intervention group) and MTA (the control group) were used as pulpotomy biomaterials. The treated teeth were restored permanently. The primary outcome was clinical/radiographic assessment after 1 week, 6 months, and 12 months. The secondary outcomes were radiometric analysis at 6 and 12 months to determine dimensional changes during maturogenesis. The digital radiographs were imported to image processing software to perform radiometric measurements. Data were tabulated and statistically analyzed with significance set at P ≤ .05. Results Only a single tooth failed at the 6-month recall, and another one was lost during recall in each group. Thus, the overall success rate for cases/group who finally attended the 12-month follow-up time point was 92% (23/25) with no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups. At the 12-month recall, successful cases showed root development with an increase in root length and a decrease in apical foramen width. Complete apical closure was observed in 65.2% of the roots in the intervention group and 52.1% in the control group. Conclusions The clinical and radiographic success reported in the present study reveals that potassium nitrate in polycarboxylate cement could be used as a biological and economic alternative to MTA as a pulpotomy agent in vital immature mandibular first molars. Further follow-up for longer periods is recommended.

This study was carried out during the two successive seasons of 2016 and 2017 to investigate the impact of dormex, dormex plus mineral oil, dormex plus potassium nitrate, dormex plus calcium nitrate and dormex plus thiourea on bud break, growth, yield and some chemical constituents of Malus sylvestris "Ein Shamer". The trees were grown in loamy sand soil, and sprayed with six treatments (dormex (4%), (dormex (2%) plus mineral oil (2.5%),(dormex (2%) plus potassium nitrate (4%),(dormex (2%) plus calcium nitrate (4%) and (dormex (2%) plus thiourea (1%) and control. Generally, it was found that all studied growth parameters , date of flower bud break, percentage of bud break, fruit-setting ,fruit weight, fruit size, fruit number/tree, yield/tree (kg) and some chemical constituents of leaves (total chlorophyll ,total carbohydrates, total protein, nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium contents) and some chemical constituents of fruits (total soluble solids(T.S.S.), T.S.S/ acid ratio, vitamin C, water content %, total free amino acids, total carbohydrates, total sugars and reducing sugars) were increased with the application of the different treatments. The best results were obtained from the treatments of dormex at 4% followed by (dormex (2%) plus mineral oil (2.5%). On the contrary, the same treatments decreased total acidity and total phenols in fruits as compared to the control. It could be recommended to use dormex at 4% and (dormex (2%) plus mineral oil (2.5%) for improving bud break, growth, yield and chemical constituents of apple trees or fruits.

Objective The aims of this study were to evaluate whether the use of a dentifrice containing 5% potassium nitrate (KNO3 ) prior to and during in-office dental bleaching reduces bleaching-induced tooth sensitivity and affects bleaching efficiency. Materials and methods Thirty-eight individuals were randomly distributed into two groups (n = 19). The experimental group performed toothbrushing using a dentifrice containing 5% KNO3 , one week before treatment and before the first and second bleaching sessions. In the control group, a placebo dentifrice without KNO3 was applied as described for the first group. Tooth sensitivity was recorded on visual analog scales (VAS) and numeric rating scales (NRS) immediately and up to 48 h after bleaching sessions. Color change at different time intervals, was evaluated with shade guide units (∆SGU) and a digital spectrophotometer (∆E CIELab 1976 and CIEDE2000) at baseline and 7, 15, and 30 days post-bleaching. Mann-Whitney test and t-test were used to evaluate TS intensity for NRS and VAS scales, respectively, and T-test was used for color difference evaluation. Results No significant difference in tooth sensitivity's absolute risk and intensity were observed between tested groups in any evaluated treatment time for NRS (p = 0.91) or VAS scales (p = 0.48). T-test showed no significant difference in both ∆E and ∆SGU tooth color among the experimental and control groups during the different evaluation times (p = 0.27). Conclusion The use of a dentifrice containing 5% KNO3 does not prevent post-operatory tooth sensitivity but allows the same whitening efficiency as a regular dentifrice. Clinical significance The use of a dentifrice-containing KNO3 did not prevent bleaching-induced tooth sensitivity when high-concentrated hydrogen peroxide was used for in-office bleaching.

A field experiment was carried out at Rice Research Station, Chinsurah, Hooghly during rainy ( kharif ) season, 2016 and 2017 to evaluate the effects of potassium and sodium salts on whorl maggot, leaf folder and yellow stem borer of rice. The yield and yield attributing characters were observed and benefit cost ratio was calculated. The potassium salts viz. potassium chloride (KCl), potassium nitrate (KNO 3 ), potassium sulfate (K 2 SO 4 ), potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KH 2 PO 4 ) and sodium salt as sodium chloride (NaCl) were applied by three modes viz. seed soaking for 12 hours before sowing, seedling root dipping for twelve hours before transplanting and foliar sprays at 30 and 50 days after transplanting (DAT). The experimental results revealed that the foliar spray with 1% potassium dihydrogen phosphate salt at 30 and 50 DAT was the best performer against rice insect-pests by lowering down the infestation of leaf folder, dead heart and white ear head and as well as responses for good yield. Maximum benefit was recorded with foliar spray of 1% sodium chloride salt.

Relevance. The production of onions and its preservation for the year-round provision of the population is an important strategic task. In March-May, there is often a shortage of onions due to high storage losses and incorrect determination of the optimal timing of implementation.Methods. Studies on the effect of fertilizers and plant growth regulators on the preservation of onion hybrids were conducted in 2014-2017 at the ARRIVG-branch of the FSVC. We tested 3 hybrids of onions grown in an annual culture on 6 variants of plant nutrition backgrounds. Harvesting of onions (turnips) was carried out manually, followed by drying in a greenhouse and laying for storage in a vegetable storehouse at a temperature of -1...0°C and a humidity of 80-90%.Results and discussion. The optimal duration of storage of new hybrids and the terms of sale of products when stored in cooling conditions for onions. Data on the shelf life and implementation of onion hybrids, depending on the nutrition background, are presented. Mathematical descriptions of the dependences of the total losses of 3 modern hybrids on the duration of storage and the influence of fertilizers and growth regulators are obtained, which is of great practical importance for the agricultural and industrial complex. Conclusions. A positive effect on the preservation of onions of treatments of vegetative plants with solutions of potassium nitrate (10 kg/ha), Zircon (0.25 l/ha) and Tenso Cocktail (0.7 kg/ha) against the background of N90P90K90 was revealed. The maximum yield of marketable products after 7 months of storage at -1...0℃ and 80-90% humidity in Bennito F1 was on the N90P90K90 + KNO3+ Zircon + Tenso Cocktail variant-89,6%, losses from diseases 2,8%; Poisk 012 F1 on the variant with the use of Zircon against the background of N90P90K90-52,1%, losses from diseases 31,2%; Pervenec F1 on the N90P90K90 + KNO3 variant- 91,4%, losses from diseases 1,4%. Pervenec F1 was distinguished by the best preservation during three-and seven-month storage. In general, the use of micro-fertilizers and a growth regulator had a positive effect on the preservation of onions.

Poor germination and the length of time required for the growth of seedlings appropriate for planting in the farm affect the cultivation of medicinal plants such as yarrow (Achillea millefolium L)....

Medieval gunpowder recipes of potassium nitrate (KNO3), charcoal (C), and sulfur (S8) were investigated by bomb calorimetry to determine their enthalpies of combustion and by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) to determine their pre-ignition and propagative ignition enthalpies. Various sample preparation methods and several additional ingredients were also tested to determine any effects on the thermodynamic values. Gunpowder recipes were prepared and used in a replica cannon that was manufactured and operated according to medieval records. Post-firing residues were collected from the bomb calorimeter and the cannon in efforts to further characterize recipe energetics using DSC. In general, during the period of 1338-1400, the %KNO3 increased, and heats of combustion decreased, while between 1400 and 1460, the %KNO3 decreased, and heats of combustion increased. However, since KNO3 was usually found in the post-bomb calorimetry and post-cannon firing residues, it was not the limiting reactant. The highest pre-ignition and propagative ignition energies occurred when the KNO3:S8 ratio was 3:1 as determined by DSC, and the highest enthalpies of combustion were measured for recipes where the KNO3:C ratio was 1:1 as determined by bomb calorimetry.

The paper aimed to inhibit evaluate the effects of some salts as natural products on postharvest diseases of sweet pepper fruits under the laboratory conditions and evaluate their effects on the development and suppression of these diseases. To achieve these aims, four different salts i.e. sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, potassium nitrate and calcium chloride was applied at four concentrations, 1, 2, 3 and 4% (w/v). Salt solutions were tested on the mycelial growth and spore germination of Ulocladium chartarum, Aspergillus niger, Fusarium semitectum and Geotrichum candidum. Seven days post incubation, mycelial growth of the tested fungi were completely inhibited by the used salt solutions. Generally, the obtained results indicate a clear impact for most used salts solutions especially sodium salts. Finally, the optimum concentrations of salts under the experiments study conditions for inhibiting of growth of Ulocladium chartarum, Aspergillus niger, Fusarium semitectum, and its spores. Geotrichum candidum were 4, 3, 3, 3% (w/v) for sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, potassium nitrate and calcium chloride, respectively. Conclusively, the optimum concentrations of salts in this study for inhibiting growth of some fungi were 4, 3, 3, 3% (w/v) for sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, potassium nitrate and calcium chloride, respectively.

Recently, due to environmental and toxicity issues, there has been increasing attention on research regarding natural products that can reduce the use of chemical fertilizers. Wood extracts derived from the biorefining process contain various fertilizer ingredients. HPLC analysis revealed that wood extract contains approximately 5.2% hemicellulosic sugar. The growth of lettuce (Lactuca sativa) upon treatment with wood extract (extract obtained from steam-exploded pine) or water-soluble fertilizers containing different nutrients was analyzed in this study. After two weeks, the growth characteristics of lettuce as affected by wood extract or water-soluble fertilizers were significantly different. The effect of water-soluble fertilizers containing ascorbic acid, magnesium sulfate, citric acid, potassium nitrate, amino acids, or seaweed extract was less desirable than that of wood extracts regarding plant height (18.6 cm), number of leaves (10), leaf length (14.1 cm), shoot fresh wight (9.8 g/plant), root fresh weight (0.8 g/plant) and shoot dry weight (0.6 g/plant). The plant height, number of leaves, leaf length, shoot fresh wight, root fresh weight, shoot dry weight of water-soluble fertilizers containing wood extract were significantly different compared to the control (plant height :13.5 cm, number of leaves : 7, leaf length : 9.4 cm, shoot fresh wight : 5.3 g/plant, root fresh weight : 0.7 g/plant, shoot dry weight : 0.4 g/plant, root dry weight : 0.07 g/plant). From these results, it was concluded that wood extract can be used as a potential water-soluble fertilizer to increase the yield of leafy vegetables.

Visual polythermal method in the bynary system of water-2-(2-butoxyethoxy) ethanol in the range of –25÷0° C the ice melting line is determined and the phase equilibria in the ternary system potassium nitrate–water–2-(2-butoxyethoxy) ethanol are studied in the range of 10.0–90.0° C. The ice melting line in the water–2-(2-butoxyethoxy) ethanol binary system is a flat, smooth line. This form of the melting line shows a hidden separation in liquid mixtures. It has been found that potassium nitrate salts out 2-(2-butoxyethoxy)ethanol from water-organic mixtures, and at 31.7° C in the ternary system of potassium nitrate–water–2-(2-butoxyethoxy)ethanol, separation begins. The compositions of the solutions corresponding to the critical solubility points at several temperatures have been determined. The isothermal phase diagrams of the ternary system at 10.0, 25.0, 30.0, 31.7, 35.0, 50.0, 90.0° С have been plotted. The distribution coefficients of 2-(2-butoxyethoxy) ethanol between the liquid phases of monotectic state have been calculated. It is shown that the effect of salting-out 2-(2-butoxyethoxy) ethanol from aqueous solutions with potassium nitrate increases with increasing temperature. The concentration of 2-(2-butoxyethoxy) ethanol in the organic phase of monotectics at 90.0° C is 90 wt.% with a distribution coefficient of 897.

Due to the low germination of annatto seeds (Bixa orellana L.), it is necessary to test different techniques that facilitate and enable its production, such as the use of the physiological conditioning method. Here, we aimed to characterize the germination of two annatto seed lots under physiological conditioning. For this, two lots of seeds (newly-collected and stored) were submitted to physiological conditioning using an aerated solution of 1) deionized water; 2) cathodic water; 3) potassium nitrate 0.3%; 4) sodium nitroprusside 100 µM; for 24h and 48h, and an additional treatment (control) without conditioning. After the germination test, ungerminated seeds were submitted to a tetrazolium test at 0.075% at 30 °C, in the dark for 24 h. We used a completely randomized factorial design (4 x 2 + 1) with four replications of 25 seeds per treatment. Despite the low germination already mentioned in the literature for this species, we obtained high germination without any type of dormancy-break pretreatment, even in lots stored for over 10 years with a water content of 8%, characterizing this species as non-dormant. The germination and viability of Bixa orellana were influenced by seed water content decrease. The conditioning agents were not efficient to increase annatto seed germination. Further studies are needed to classify these seeds according to their storability.

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the risk and intensity of tooth sensitivity (TS) after topical application of desensitizers containing potassium nitrate before dental bleaching. We searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, LILACS, BBO, Cochrane Library, and SIGLE. We also surveyed gray literature without restrictions. We meta-analyzed the data using the random-effects model to compare potassium nitrate and placebo in terms of risk and intensity of TS and color change (∆SGU or ∆E). The quality of the evidence was rated using the GRADE approach. The risk of bias (RoB) of the included studies was analyzed using the Cochrane RoB tool. After the database screening, 24 articles remained. A significant 12% lower risk for the groups where desensitizing agents were applied (p = 0.02), with a risk ratio of 0.88 (95% CI 0.78 to 0.98). About the intensity of TS, a significant average mean difference of − 0.77 units of VAS units (95%CI − 1.34 to − 0.19; p = 0.01) in favor of the desensitizer group. In the NRS scale, a significant average mean difference of − 0.36 (95% CI − 0.61 to − 0.12; p value = 0.004) in favor of the desensitizer group. No significant difference was observed in color change (p > 0.28) in ∆SGU and ∆E. Although a significant reduction in the risk and intensity of TS was observed in groups treated with a potassium nitrate at some point during the bleaching, the clinical significance of this reduction is subtle and clinically questionable. Color change is not affected by the use of agents. The reduction in the risk and intensity of TS with the topical application of potassium nitrate–based desensitizing agents in dental bleaching is subtle and maybe clinically questionable.

Potassium plays a pivotal role in improving potato quality and yield. Field experiment was conducted during fall seasons of 2018/2019 and 2019/2020 at the experimental facilities of Minia University, Egypt, in order to study effects of different organic and inorganic sources of potassium (Potassium Sulfate - Potassium Humate - Potassium Nitrate - Potassium Silicate) on growth and yield performance of potato cultivars of (Lady Balfour and Cara). After 75 days from planting, maximum plant height and number of branches was obtained with cultivar Lady Balfour fertilized with potassium humate. Use of potassium humate with Lady Balfour gave superlative results in terms of length of branches, number of stems and weight of branches, while the leaf area was increased in the Lady Balfour with potassium silicate treatment. The greatest amount of tubers/plant in both seasons were achieved by Cara fertilized with potassium silicate, while the weight of tubers/plant was recorded by Lady Balfour with potassium humate treatment in the second season. The greatest tuber yields for both seasons were achieved by Cara with potassium silicate and Lady Balfour with potassium humate. Tuber’s texture, TSS and contents of chlorophyll a, b and carotene were higher with Cara cultivar fertilized potassium humate and potassium silicate. The results of experiment showed that the highest contents of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium in potatoes leaves obtained by humic acid with both cultivars. Positive impacts of potassium humate followed by potassium silicate over other examined potassium sources on potato growth and quality were confirmed.

The temperature dependences of the linear dielectric permittivity e′ and the third harmonic coefficient γ3ω for nanocomposites obtained by embedding a KNO3 melt into the pores of Al2O3 oxide films with diameters of 330, 190, and 100 nm are investigated. The measurements were carried out in the heating and cooling modes in the range from room temperature to 463 K. It was found that the structural phase transition from phase II to phase I of potassium nitrate in Al2O3 films shifts towards higher temperatures as compared to bulk KNO3. For KNO3, the ferroelectric phase appears in the pores of 190 and 100 nm both upon heating and upon cooling.

Priming of seed is an approach that imparts stress tolerance to germinating seeds and seedlings under stressful conditions. Drought stress is a key reason for crop failures. We evaluated the effect...

There is an urgent need for fruits enhancers due to rise in food insecurity globally. Eggplant (Solanum aethiopicum L.) fruit is one of the most widely consumed fruit in the world, and Nigeria in particular. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of using compost manure and potassium nitrate (KNO3) fertilizer as fruit enhancers in eggplant production. The research was carried out on Bello eggplant using seven different treatments. Apart from the control unit, compost manure was applied at the rate of 2500 and 5000 kg/ka; the KNO3 fertilizer was applied at the rate of 150 and 300 kg/ha; combined treatment of compost manure and KNO3 was applied at the rate of 2500 kg (compost) + 150 kg (KNO3) and 5000 kg (compost) + 300 kg (KNO3) per hectare. Fruits from all the treatments were harvested at peak maturity stage, and the mechanical properties determined, in accordance to international procedures. Results obtained from the mechanical test revealed that fruits produced with combined treatment had better failure force, failure energy and compressibility, compared to the control fruits, or the fruits produced with single treatment. Regarding the single treatment, the results revealed that fruits produced with compost manure had better compression properties than the fruits produced with KNO3. A failure force of 829.00 and 855.33 N were recorded in the fruits produced with compost manure at the two concentration levels respectively. Similarly, failure force of 798.33 and 831.67 N were recorded in the fruits produced with KNO3 at the two concentration levels respectively. This study results affirmed that combined treatment was better than single treatment, and the combined treatment can be used as fruits enhancer. Results obtained from this study can also be used to design and develop eggplant fruit harvesting, handling and packaging machines.

The rapid ripening and fruit size are two important factors, which significantly influence the economy and marketability of apricot. Generally, the postharvest quality of fresh crops depends on the quality achieved at harvest time, which is influenced considerably by pre-harvest factors. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of foliar application of calcium chloride and potassium nitrate on the physical and biochemical attributes of apricot fruit. We evaluated the effect of foliar sprays of 0.5% or 1% calcium chloride (CaCl2) and 1% or 2% potassium nitrate (KNO3) on the yield and at harvest quality of apricot fruits cv. ‘Shahroudi’ during the 2019 and 2020 growing seasons. The experiment was conducted in a commercial apricot orchard located in Birjand, Iran. The results indicated that twice foliar spray of both chemicals at the pre-harvest stage affected most of the evaluated traits in both years. KNO3 application at both concentrations significantly increased the length, width, and weight of apricot fruit and maintained total phenol content, vitamin C, and titratable acidity compared to the control. Interestingly, treated fruit with KNO3 solution at both concentrations increased fruit width (150%), fruit length (160%), and fresh fruit weight (180%), compared to the control. Besides, KNO3 (1% or 2%) and 1% CaCl2 treatments significantly increased fruit firmness (25%) and calcium content (35%) of fruit pulp compared to the control. Overall, the results suggest practical multiple practical application of both chemicals (particularly KNO3) at proper concentration and time during the growth season to improve the quality and increase the yield of apricot fruit ‘Shahroudi’ cultivar.

This investigation was conducted during two successive seasons (2019/2020; 2020/2021) on almost 12-year old identical Gold Nugget mandarintrees Citrus reticulata Blanco (Wilking mandarin x Kincy mandarin), grafted on Volkamer Lemon (Citrus volkameriana) (VOL) rootstock cultivated in a private orchard located in Al Qalyubia Governorate, Egypt. The trees were grown at a distance of 2 × 6 m in silt soil under the Immersion irrigation system. To study the effect of hand thinning, chemical thinning using NAA at 400ppm, Potassium nitrate (5gm/L),Spirulina platensis ( algae extract) (2cm/L) and Potassium sulfate (1.25g/L) +Zinc sulfate (2.5g/L) +Salicylic acid (0.11g/L) on vegetative growth, fruit quality and yield of Gold Nuggetmandarin trees. The experiment was designed as a randomized complete block design with five replications. Results illustrate that most of the experimental treatments significantly increased tree canopy volume both hand or chemical thinning was the highest value and Chemical thinning treatment significantly increased leaf area. Potassium nitrate foliar spray significantly increased shoot thickness, number of leaves/ shoot. Spirulina platensis treatment enhancing of the spring growth cycle, number of flowers, fruit-set, number of fruits/tree, tree yield efficiency as the number of fruit / M3 canopy and vitamin C. as for Potassium sulfate + zinc sulfate+ Salicylic acid treatment was superior with statistic differences for tree yield as kg/tree and kg/ M3, fruit physical properties (fruit weight, fruit size, Juice volume, Juice weight and fruit Pulp Weight).

Indonesian konjac (IK in brief), also known as Amorphophallus muelleri Blume in Latin, is a wild plant growing in several places in Indonesian archipelago. The tuber of IK plant contains a compound called glucomannan which has high economic value since it can be used as a raw material in many industries such as medicine, cosmetic, paper, textile, synthetic rubber, and filming industries. Due to this economic value, this study was carried out in order to increase the productivity of glucomannan and bring IK into mass cultivation. For this purpose, the objective of this study is to increase the productivity of IK tubers by increasing the speed of seeds gemination process and by decreasing the dormancy period. Meanwhile, bringing IK into mass plantation will be put as a package of campaign program to educate people. To speed up the germination process and to decrease the dormancy, the method used in this study period is by improving the soaking process of IK seeds using KNO3 solution. Its effects were investigated using a completely randomized design (CRD) with three treatments, namely, concentration of the solution, soaking time, and plant age. Then, data were collected and analyzed statistically using general linear model, analysis of variance and Duncan's multiple range test. The results indicate that soaking in that solution has a significant effect on shortening the time period for seeds to germinate. Its optimal effect was reached for 3,000 ppm of concentration with soaking time 3 hours at 14th days after plantation (DAP). Moreover, in terms of dormancy period, that solution has reduced from 5-6 months to 2-4 months. These findings were significantly support the effective use of KNO3 solution to answer the objective of research. The germination period has been reduced from 3-6 months to around 14 days. To the knowledge of the authors, based on the literature used in this study, these are unprecedented findings. Therefore, hopefully, it could contribute to the development of konjac-based industries and to the literature of konjac particularly Indonesian konjac.

Achillea millefolium is a major medicinal and aromatic herb and has antioxidant, antimicrobial, antispasmodic and antitumor effects in its essential oil. This research was conducted at Floriculture Farm and in the Laboratories of Horticulture Departments, Faculty of Agriculture at Moshtohor, Benha Univ., during 2018/2019 and 2019/2020 seasons to study the effect of foliar spraying at 2000 mg/l with various potassium sources i.e., potassium chloride, potassium citrate, potassium humate, potassium nitrate, potassium silicate, potassium sulphate, monopotassium phosphate and di-potassium hydrogen phosphate on vegetative growth, flowering, essential oil productivity and some chemical constituents of yarrow (Achillea millefolium L.) plants. Results showed that various potassium sources scored highly significant effects on vegetative growth and flowering of A. millefolium L. plant, particularly potassium nitrate followed potassium humate. Moreover, the richest leaf N% was resulted by potassium nitrate, whereas, spraying A. millefolium L. plants with monopotassium phosphate treatment induced the highest values of the percentage of P (%) and total chlorophylls content (%) as well as the maximum K (%), while total carbohydrate content was given by potassium sulphate. In addition, spraying yarrow plant with potassium citrate treatment induced the maximum values of essential oil parameters. Furthermore, the constituents of volatile oil of A. millefolium L. showed 13 components have been recognized. The major components were α-bisabolol oxide B, limonene, carvacrol and chamazulene. Consequently, spraying A. millefolium L. plants with potassium nitrate or potassium humate is recommended, to boost growth, flowering and some chemical constituents, whereas potassium citrate and potassium silicate treatment induced the richest values of essential oils production

SUMMARY This double-blind, randomized, and controlled clinical trial evaluated the effect of sonic activation during the application of a desensitizing agent (DA) containing 5% potassium nitrate and 2% sodium fluoride on the occurrence of tooth sensitivity (TS) associated with in-office dental bleaching. Treatment with or without sonic activation of the DA was randomly assigned to one-half of the maxillary teeth of 34 patients in a split-mouth design. On the side without sonic activation (noSA), the DA was applied and maintained in contact with the teeth for 10 minutes. On the sonic activation side (SA), the DA was activated 30 seconds per tooth. The DA application was followed by application of 35% hydrogen peroxide in two bleaching sessions separated by a one-week interval. The primary outcome was the absolute risk of TS, recorded using a numeric rating scale and a visual analog scale. Color was evaluated with a digital spectrophotometer and a value-oriented shade guide. No significant difference between treatments was observed in the absolute risk of TS, which occurred in 93% (p=1.00) of both noSA and SA groups. The TS intensity was higher in the 24-hour interval after sessions, for both treatments, without differences between them. There was no difference in the color change for the treatments, with the average change in number of shade guide units of the Vita Classical scale of 6.35 for both (p=0.87). Sonic activation of DA containing 5% potassium nitrate and 2% sodium fluoride did not reduce the absolute risk and intensity of TS associated with in-office bleaching.

Fusarium wilt of chilli caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. capsici has been emerging as one of the biotic threats in profitable cultivation of chilli crop. Therefore, present study was undertaken with the objectives viz., effect of carbon, nitrogen and pH levels on growth of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. capsici, The nutritional requirement of test pathogen was carried by using the various carbon and nitrogen sources. All the seven carbon sources were significantly utilized by the pathogen. Among that Glucose and Dextrose showed maximum growth followed by Lactose. From the seven nitrogen sources, Potassium nitrate, Calcium nitrate and Urea were best for growth of the test fungus. The different eight pH levels were studied, which revealed that pH range from 5-8 was suitable for growth of the fungus. The fungus growth was found maximum at pH levels 7 and 6.5.

Three-Dimensionally Ordered Macroporous (3DOM) carbon surfaces were prepared from a template synthesis involving polymethyl methacrylate. These surfaces were mounted as electrodes and studied using cyclic voltammetry to understand their electrochemical properties for potential use as platforms in electrochemical sensors. The prepared 3DOM carbon electrodes have a large surface area that allows more charge-transfer reactions to take place. Potassium hexacyanoferrate and potassium nitrate served as the electroactive species and supporting electrolyte, respectively to study the 3DOM electrodes. Based on the Randles-Sevcik equation, the current produced by the potassium hexacyanoferrate electroactive species, is controlled by diffusion. The electrodes were subsequently chemically modified with 13 nm gold nanoparticles that produced a significant increase in the faradaic current.

This research work aimed at investigating the effects of magnesium metal (powder) and carbon on a potassium nitrate-sucrose (KNSU) solid propellant formulation. Characterization of propellant is very important to determine its performance before it can be suitable for use for a rocket flight or any mission. Ballistic loadcell method was used. The ballistic load cell instrumentation measured the thrust generated by the propellant, the propellant burn time and the exit temperature of the burning hot propellant gases. The carbon constituent which acts as an opacifier and coolant was kept constant at 2% in order to arrest some of the heat during the combustion process and helped to lower the combustion temperature, because high combustion temperature could lead to combustion chamber rupture or failure. Also, carbon was not increased beyond 2%, so as not to make the propellant excessively smoky because of presence of magnesium oxide and other solids in the combustion products that can cause air pollution, and could be harmful to human lives and the environment. The propellant specific impulse (117.9s), combustion temperature (1818K), heat ratio (1.1508), propellant molecular weight (38.88g/mole), propellant density (1874.6kg/m3), characteristics velocity (997.2m/s) and burn rate (0.00906m/s) were obtained. The effect of addition of magnesium which was optimized for 3% in the formulation contributed significantly in improving the overall performance of the propellant as parameters such as the specific impulse, chamber temperature, characteristics velocity and heat ratio were found to have higher values as compare to the KNSU propellant when magnesium was not present in the formulation. Basically, higher values of these parameters suggest better propellant performance. Also, in this case, when carbon was increased beyond 2%, the propellant was excessively smoky because of presence of magnesium oxide and other solids in the combustion products that can cause air pollution, and could be harmful to human lives and the environment.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy of dentifrices containing potassium nitrate and strontium chloride in reducing dentinal sensitivity pain. METHODOLOGY: A pilot study was conducted in Islamic International Dental Hospital Islamabad, Pakistan (Duration two weeks). Forty participants were selected, aged between 18-40 years, having dentin hypersensitivity with the minimum score of 4 on Visual Analog Scale. Participants were randomly allocated with dentifrices containing 5% w/w potassium nitrate and 10 % w/w strontium chloride and were asked to use it for 2 weeks and come back for follow up. Statistically significant correlations were found using the Man Whitney test. A pre-designed proforma was used to acquire information about the patient. Sensitivity was determined with the aid of the Visual Analog Scale. RESULTS: There was greater reduction in moderate pain from 85.8% to 71.4% with strontium chloride and from 84.2% to 79% with potassium nitrate. CONCLUSION: 10 % w/w strontium chloride is more effective than the 5% w/w potassium nitrate for the management of dentin hypersensitivity. KEYWORDS: Toothpastes, Sensitivity, Strontium Chloride, Potassium Nitrate HOW TO CITE: Kiani AZ, Hassan S, Rafiq T. Clinical comparison of 5% potassium nitrate and 10% strontium chloride toothpastes in alleviating dentin hypersensitivity following manual scaling: A pilot study. J Pak Dent Assoc 2021;30(1): 56-60.

The electrode capacitance is studied as a function of the potential at various KCl contents in the KNO3 melt and various ac signal frequencies. At a certain critical potential, the addition of KCl is shown to lead to the appearance of an additional minimum in the anode branch of the capacitance curve, and an explanation of this effect is proposed.

The present investigation entitled “Effect of foliar application of different nutrients on growth and yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under sodic soil” was carried out at main experiment station (MES) of Acharaya Narendra Dev University of Agriculture & Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya (U.P.). During rabi season - 2017-18. The experiment was laid in field condition with randomized block design and three replications. Seven treatments comprised of five different nutrients as zinc sulphate (0.5%) and (0.7%), boric acid (0.2%) and (0.4%) and potassium nitrate (0.1%) and (0.3%) applied as foliar application at 35 DAS of crop growth. A controlled set was also maintained. The observations were recorded as growth parameters at, 40, 60 and 90 DAS, yield and yield attributing traits were recorded at harvest. All the foliar application of nutrients increased the growth characters viz., plant height (cm), number of tillers per m2, dry weight plant was found significantly superior with foliar application of 0.7% zinc sulphate at all the stages of crop over control. Yield characters viz., length of spike (10.5cm), No. of grains per spike (45.10), no. of grains per plant (40.20), Grain yield/m2 (285), grain yield qha1 (28.50), test weight (38.26g) and harvest index (29.80%) were recorded significantly higher with foliar application of 0.7% zinc sulphate followed by foliar application of 0.3% of potassium nitrate over control.

The present work focuses on the enhancement of the antireflective property of black coatings produced on 310-grade stainless steel by hot conversion coating techniques. The optimum process parameter has been determined by using Taguchi L9 orthogonal array. Coating duration (d) and bath temperature (t) were selected as control variables (process parameters). The percentage reflectance (%R) was considered response characteristics. To analyze the effect of each process parameter on percentage reflectance, Taguchi analysis, ANOVA, main effect plots, interaction plots, and contour plots were considered. It has been found that 1100 g/L potassium hydroxide, 200 g/L of potassium nitrate, 40-minute duration of coating, and 140 °C bath temperature produces coating with lowest average percentage reflectance (%R). The characterization of coated samples was done by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The surface morphological studies revealed that a uniform coating with a wavy structure act as a good light absorber in the visible region of 350–800 nm.

This study aimed to explore the production of polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), a polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), which has been widely considered as a potential substitute for the synthetic polymers. Among 53 actinomycete isolates, 11 of them were found to be PHB positive and the quantity of PHB from the positive isolates varied from 10.5 to 29.82 wt% on a dry cell weight basis. A strain designated as PPLAT 012, accumulated relatively higher PHB and has been identified as Isoptericola variabilis by 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. An effort has also been made to optimize the PHB production by the hyper-producing strain using the conventional, one-factor-at-a-time, and statistical response surface methodologies and the maximum PHB production (46.18%) in DSMZ medium, amended with 12% glucose and 9% potassium nitrate with a pH of 7.0. Further, the characteristic properties such as processability, cytocompatibility and biodegradability of the extracted PHB was also demonstrated. The physical properties of the recovered PHB was further improved by blending with PLA and the resultant blends were characterized. The present investigation has demonstrated that the isolate, Isoptericola variabilis, could be utilized as a potential source for the production of PHB with desirable characteristics, suitable for biomedical applications.

We investigated the use of plasma-fixated nitrogen, which produces nitrates (NO3−) in water, as a possible nitrogen fertilizer for recreational turf such as rye grass and bent grass. Experiments were carried out to study the effects of nitrate concentration on growth, the further effects of adding phosphorous (P) and potassium (K) to the plasma nitrated solution to make an N–P–K complete fertilizer, and to compare the efficacy of plasma-fixated nitrogen to sodium nitrate (NaNO3) and potassium nitrate (KNO3). The results indicate that the growth and biomass of the plants were strongly dependent on the concentration of the plasma-fixated nitrogen. Adding P–K to the plasma-fixated nitrogen improved grass growth. Grass that was supplied plasma-fixated nitrogen had improved growth compared to those supplied with equal amounts of NaNO3 and KNO3. This work highlights the potential use of plasma-fixated nitrogen as a fertilizer source for commonly used turf grass.

The Neelakurunji (Strobilanthes kunthianus) is a semelparous plant species which flowers once in every 12 years in Western Ghats of South India. For the first time, pollen germination medium to germinate kurunji pollen in vitro was developed and reported. The pollen germination medium developed by Brewbaker and Kwack medium was modified, also urea and multivitamin was added to develop a medium which supports more than 91% pollen germination in vitro. Kurunji pollen is elliptical and the pollen tubes peculiarly emerge from the belly of the pollen. This new pollen germination medium (PGM) consisted of 15% sucrose +15% PEG 4000 + 100 mgl–1boric acid + 450 mgl–1 calcium nitrate +75 mgl–1 potassium nitrate+ 150 mgl–1 magnesium nitrate+ 50 mgl–1urea+200 mgl–1Neurobion forte(multivitamin tablet). Urea has been added as one of the constituents to pollen germination medium for the first time. Also the pollen viability and stigma receptivity were tested.

The experiment was conducted in the feld and laboratory of Department of Seed Science and Technology, Dr. YSPUHF, Nauni, Solan (HP) during 2017–18 and 2018–19 to study the effect of foliar application of plant defense elicitors like salicylic acid, methyl jasmonate, amino butyric acid and potassium nitrate on severity of Alternaria leaf and pod spots, seed yield, seed quality, vigour and health of radish seed crop (cv. Japanese white). In all 13 treatments viz., SA @50ppm, 75ppm, 100ppm, MeJA @55 ppm, 110 ppm, 165 ppm, BABA @ 250ppm, 500ppm, 750ppm, KNO3 @1%, 1.5%, 2% and untreated control were there. Disease severity and seed yield were observed in feld while seed quality and health parameters of seeds were observed in the laboratory following blotter paper, roll paper towel method and grow out test. SA @100ppm besides reducing disease severity of Alternaria, was also found effective in increasing seed yield, 1000 seed weight and enhancing various seed quality and seed health parameters.

A simple rolling system was investigated and setting in the bottom of fertilizing unit to utilize the recommended amount of fertilizer adding to the seeds during/after planting. So that it can be used individually, to perform the fertilizing operation after planting, or combined with the drilling machine. The judging on the performances of fertilizer feeding unit with rolling system is identified under four different forward speeds (FS) of 2.5; 3.7; 5.0 and 8.5 km/h and different operating ratio between fertilizer unit landing wheel and rotating shaft of fertilizer rolling system (OR) under gate area (GA) of 15cm2. The granulated fertilizer (Potassium nitrate and Urea) were used in the experiment to assess the performance of the investigated rolling system on fertilizer application rate (kg/fedd.).The results of the study were compared statistically to obtain the most suitable treatments to the addition of activating doses of fertilizers during planting and growing crop service. The experimental results indicated thatthe recommended amount 12.0 kg/feddpotassium nitrate for the investigated rolling unit may be defined under forward speed of 5.0 k m/h and a Operating ratio of “1.0 to 2.0”. On the other hand, at recommended amount 30.0 kg/fedd or 33.0 kg/fedd potassium nitrate for the investigated fertilizer system may be conformed under forward speed of 3.7 km/h and with a operating ratio of “1.0 to 4.1” or “1.0 to 4.8” respectively.

A pot experiment was conducted during 2018 and 2019 seasons in Sakha Horticulture Research Station, Kafr El-Sheikh Governorate, Egypt to study the effect of foliar application of potassium sulphate 50%, potassium nitrate 43% (1, 2 and 3 g/l water) and potassium silicate 38% (1, 2 and 3 ml/l water) on growth and flowering of snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus L.) plants. The results indicated that foliar spraying with the different potassium treatments significantly affected all the studied parameters in terms of plant height, number of shoots per plant, fresh and dry weight of plant, roots and flower, number of flowers per plant, spike length, total chlorophyll content andnutritional status (N, P, K and Si) as compared with control. Foliar spraying with potassium sulphate at 3 g/l water gave the significantly highest values of plant height, number of shoots per plant, fresh and dry weight of plant, roots and flower, number of flowers per plant, spike length and total chlorophyll compared to other treatments. Data showed also that, growth parameters, flowering characteristics and nutritional status were significantly increased with increasing the levels of potassium from 1 to 3 g/l water or ml/l water under the same source of potassium. So, it can be concluded that potassium foliar spray can be used as a partial substitution of the recommended soil amended potassium for increasing nutrients uptake and thus stimulating growth and flowering characteristics of snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus L.) plants and potassium sulphate at 3 g/l water can be used in this respect.

The microhardness of the surface layers of silicate glass formed by the diffusion of potassium ions from the composite paste consisting of potassium nitrate, alumina, and water is studied. Ion exchange processing using the composite paste leads to a significant increase of the microhardness of the glass surface from 550 to 850 MPa. It is found that the microhardness of the glass changes nonmonotonically, which is determined by the processes of the formation and the subsequent relaxation of the strong stress in the surface layers of the glass.

The transport of tartaric acid through a bulk liquid membrane (BLM) was investigated. The effect of solvent type, carrier concentration, temperature, salt type and salt concentration in the feed phase on the transport efficiency of tartaric acid through the BLM was studied. 27 experiments were performed based on the Taguchi design of experiment, and the results were analyzed with Minitab 16 software. The results indicated that the maximum extraction (92.53%) was obtained under optimum conditions including methyl isobutyl ketone as a solvent, trioctylamine at a concentration of 30% (v/v) as a carrier, a temperature of 25°C and potassium nitrate at a concentration of 30% (w/v) as a salt in the feed phase. The results illustrated that the experimental error compared with the predicted value by the software was 6.69%; therefore, the Taguchi model has an acceptable capability of prediction for the tartaric acid extraction process. In addition, two irreversible first-order sequential chemical reactions were used to explain the kinetic model of the pertraction process in BLM systems.

Salinity reduces the ability of plant utilize water and causes a reducing in growth rates, as well as changes in plant metabolic processes in most of the crops including groundnut. The molecules like silicic, gibberellic acid and potassium nitrate known to alleviates its adverse effect. Thus, green house experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of exogenous application of gibberellic acid, potassium nitrate and silicic acid under salt stress on biochemical parameters of groundnut. The observations were recorded for the biochemical parameters total soluble sugars, reducing sugars, total phenol, proline and glycine betaine. The result was suggested that the biochemical constituents were adversely affected due to salinity stress in groundnut. On application of GA3, KNO3 and silicic acid increased total soluble sugars, reducing sugars, total phenol, proline and glycine betaine. This investigation has suggested gibberellic acid, potassium nitrate and silicic acid, as a potential biomolecules affecting certain biomolecules related to osmotic adjustment as against the abiotic stress like salinity.

In this paper, titanium oxide (TiO2) films were prepared by cathodic electrodeposition using titanium oxysulfate (TiOSO4), potassium nitrate (KNO3), citric acid, and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) as reactants. The article investigated the effect of citric acid and deposition temperature on the structure and electrochemical properties of TiO2 films. The results indicated that hydrous TiO2 thin films were prepared at 60°C when no citric acid was added, while thin films containing hydrous TiO2 and anatase phase were fabricated at 60–75°C when citric acid was added. It was found that adding citric acid and raising the reaction temperature (60–75°C) were beneficial to reduce crack width until cracks disappeared. Adding citric acid facilitated phase transition from hydrous TiO2 to anatase. Continuous and uniform TiO2 thin film was prepared at 75°C, which was found to have ideal capacitive behavior with a rectangular cyclic voltammogram and high photocurrent performance with photocurrent 2.89 μA, which is several times higher than that of cracked samples.