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Multiple applications in aerospace utilize pyrotechnic charges for their operation, and these charges are predominantly in the form of granules. One of the most used charges is boron potassium nitrate (BPN), and the present study focuses on mathematically modeling granular combustion, its experimental recreation, and carrying out a comparative study on three upwind schemes for its numerical simulation. A customized version of the seven-equation compressible multifluid formulation is presented in this paper to model granular combustion mathematically. Three upwind schemes, namely HLLC, AUSM+-up, and HLLC-AUSM, are used for the numerical comparison. Utilizing these, an axisymmetric code is developed for the comparative study. To experimentally replicate granular combustion, granular BPN is fired in a closed bomb test facility, and the experimental pressure history is used for the numerical comparisons. The developed code can adequately predict the physics of granular combustion, and all three schemes are equally capable of numerical prediction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment was carried out to know the effect of different chemicals on seed germination of marking nut. The research was conducted at Sri Krishnadevaraya College of Horticultural Sciences, Ananthapuramu during the year 2022 and 2023. Experimental treatments comprised of ten treatments replicated thrice in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) viz., Control, Scarification, Gibberellic acid, Humic Acid, Hydrochloric acid (HCl), Sulphuric acid (H2SO4), Vermiwash, Hot water treatment, Thiourea and Potassium nitrate (KNO3). The treatment of using H2SO4 for 5 minutes reduced number of days taken for germination (21.00), increased germination percentage (81.77 %), germination vigour index (0.64), number of primary roots per plant (28.38), number of secondary roots per plant (55.16), length of the root (25.50 cm), plant height (19.72 cm) at 180 days after sowing, fresh weight of the root (31.07 g), fresh weight of the shoot (9.29 g) and minimum was recorded in control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ramularia sphaeroidea was primarily identified based on the characteristics of its conidia and several sequences. The fungus causes severe leaf spot disease on hairy vetch (Vicia villosa var. glabrescens) in Yunnan Province in China. The growth, sporulation, fungicide efficacy, and host range of the pathogen were evaluated to aid in disease management. Different types of culture media and carbon and nitrogen sources were used to evaluate the growth of R. sphaeroidea. Oatmeal, maltose, and potassium nitrate agar had a higher amount of sporulation. Difenoconazole (10%) was the most effective fungicide against the leaf disease caused by R. sphaeroidea. In addition, foliar inoculation sprays were used to assess the host range of R. sphaeroidea in six different plant species, including alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia Scop.), erect milkvetch (Astragalus adsurgens Pall.), common vetch (Vicia sativa L.), red clover (Trifolium pratense L.), and white clover (Trifolium repens L.). R. sphaeroidea successfully infected these plants, indicating that it has a wider host range than hairy vetches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was aimed to investigate the appropriate planting date and tolerance to adverse growing conditions in the spring season through seeds stimulation technology. A field experiment was carried out in the spring seasons of 2022 and 2023 according to a randomized complete block design in a splitplot arrangement with four replications. The main factor is planting dates (February 15th, March 1st and 15th, and April 1st and 15th). The secondary factor is seeds stimulation (potassium nitrate 6 mg L -1 + licorice extract 6 g L -1, as well as soaking with distilled water only). The stimulated seeds (potassium nitrate + licorice extract) and the planting date of February 15th were superior in traits of fertility ratio, number of grains per ear, weight of 300 grains, total grains yield, biological yield, and harvest index in both seasons (2022 and 2023). The stimulated seeds (potassium nitrate + licorice extract), planted on February 15th, excelled in the traits above (95.6 and 97.7%), (640.7 and 816.9 grain ear-1 ), (76.19 and 82.69 g), (7.2 and 7.8 ton ha-1 ), (17.5 and 18.9 ton ha-1 ) and (41.5 and 41.2%) in both seasons, respectively. It can be concluded that seeds stimulation improved the yield and its components of corn crop under a wide range of environmental conditions, and that planting the stimulated seeds on February 15th contributed to take advantage of the prevailing environmental conditions and regulating the relationship between source efficiency and sink capacity to obtain the highest grain yield. It can be recommended that soaking the seeds with potassium nitrate 6 mg L -1 + licorice extract 6 g L -1 together when planting in mid-February in the spring season to increase grains yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to explore the removal of nitrate ions from groundwater by employing dynamic permeable reactive barriers (PRBs) with A400-nZVI. This research aimed to determine the parameters of the barrier and evaluate its overall capacity to retain nitrate ions during percolation with a potassium nitrate solution. The process involves obtaining zerovalent iron (nZVI) nanoparticles, which were synthesized and incorporated onto an anionic resin support material (A400) through the reduction reaction of ferrous ions with sodium borohydride (NaBH4). This is achieved by preparing a ferrous sulfate solution, contacting it with the ion exchange resin at various solid–liquid mass ratios and gradually adding sodium borohydride under continuous stirring in an oxygen-free environment to create the A400-nZVI barrier. The results of the study, focusing on the development of permeable reactive barriers composed of nano zero-valent iron and ion exchangers, highlight the significant potential of water treatment processes when appropriately sized. The research specifically assesses the effectiveness of NO3− removal by using the A400-nZVI permeable reactive barrier, conducting laboratory tests that simulate a naturally stratified aquifer with high nitrate contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of gibberellic acid and potassium nitrate on seed emergence and seedling growth of amaranth and Cleome gynandra were investigated in the greenhouse at Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology. The study was laid out in a factorial layout within a completely randomized design replicated three times. Potassium nitrate (dry seeds, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, 0.9%, and 1%) and gibberellic acid (dry seeds, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, and 1000 parts per million) were used, respectively. A total of 100 seeds of both crops were planted in each plastic pocket. Seed emergence percentage and vigor index of amaranth and C. gynandra were evaluated. The effects were more pronounced in seeds treated with gibberellic acid than in potassium nitrate. Seed emergence and vigor index of amaranth and C. gynandra seeds treated with gibberellic acid showed a significant difference at p < 0.01, while potassium nitrate showed no significant difference at p > 0.05. The maximum seed emergence percentage of amaranth and C. gynandra was 67.1% and 64.8%, which was obtained in 2022 and 2021, while the lowest was 35.5% and 37.5%, which was obtained in 2021. The highest vigor index I of amaranth and C. gynandrawas 590.3 and 586.2, which was observed in 2022 and 2021, while the lowest vigor index I was 45.2 and 170, which was obtained in 2021 and 2022. The results obtained indicated that the application of gibberellic acid on seeds of amaranth and C. gynandra can alleviate seed dormancy. Core Ideas: African indigenous vegetables like amaranth and Cleome gynandra (C. gynandra) are neglected and underutilized.Domestication of amaranth and C. gynandra is advocated in sub‐Saharan Africa because of their nutritional, medicinal, and microbial properties.Domestication of these vegetables is hindered by poor emergence, which is caused by seed dormancy.Seed dormancy is also regulated by environmental and genotypic factors during the development and after‐ripening of seeds.Seed dormancy and germination are determined by the balance between abscisic acid and gibberellic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Drought and heat stress are significant concerns to food security in arid and semi-arid regions, where global warming is predicted to increase both frequency and severity. To cope with these challenges, the use of drought-tolerant plants or technological interventions are essential. In this study, the effects of foliar potassium nitrate (KNO3) application on the stress tolerance and recovery of Myrobalan 29C rootstocks (Prunus cerasifera Ehrh.) were evaluated. These rootstocks are widely recognized for their adaptability and are extensively used in fruit production. To assess their response, the rootstocks were subjected to drought, heat shock, or a combination of both stressors. Additionally, they were treated with 1.0% KNO3 via foliar application. Throughout the stress and recovery periods, various morphological, physiological, and bio-chemical parameters were measured. Results Based on our results, KNO3 treatment improved LRWC, Chl stability, SC, and key stress markers like proline, MDA, H2O2, along with antioxidant enzymes CAT, SOD, POD during both stress and recovery phases. Moreover, our results emphasized KNO3's critical role in hormone regulation under stress. KNO3 application significantly altered hormone levels, notably increasing ABA during drought and heat shock stress, essential for stress response and adaptation. In contrast, IAA, GA, and cytokinin’s significantly increased during the recovery phase in KNO3-treated plants, indicating improved growth regulation and stress recovery. In addition, KNO3 application improved the recovery process of the rootstocks by restoring their physiological and biochemical functions. Conclusion This study suggests that the application of foliar KNO3 is an effective technique for enhancing the drought and heat tolerance as well as the recovery of Myrobalan 29C rootstocks. These results hold significant value for farmers, policymakers, and researchers, as they offer crucial insights into the development of drought-tolerant crops and the management of climate change’s adverse effects on agriculture.

To replace explosive nitrate-based chemicals in MS medium, this study developed a new, safer, and more cost-effective method using fertilizer-grade calcium ammonium nitrate and ammonium sulfate. This approach replaces ammonium nitrate and potassium nitrate, ensuring both safety and cost efficiency for sugarcane propagation. Six local sugarcane varieties—Zhongtang1 (ZT1), Zhongtang3 (ZT3), Zhongtang6 (ZT6), Guitang42 (GT42), Guitang44 (GT44), and Guiliu 07150 (GT07150)—were used. In the control group (Ck), nitrate ions (NO3−) were 39.28 mM, and ammonium ions (NH4+) were 20.49 mM, with a 2:1 ratio. In the treatment groups, the concentrations of nitrate ions (NO3−) and ammonium ions (NH4+) included treatment 1 (19.69 mM NO3− and 10.3 mM NH4+), treatment 2 (29.54 mM and 15.44 mM), treatment 3 (39.38 mM and 20.59 mM), treatment 4 (49.225 mM and 25.74 mM), treatment 5 (59.07 mM and 30.89 mM), and treatment 6 (68.915 mM and 36.03 mM), respectively, all with the same 2:1 ratio. Fifty bottles per treatment, with three replicates, were used for each sugarcane plantlets treatment. After five subcultures, the optimal ratio was determined by assessing morphological and physiological parameters, nitrogen levels, and SOD enzyme activity. The results indicated that treatment 3 (39.38 mM and 20.59 mM) and treatment 4 (49.225 mM and 25.74 mM) had the best morphological and physiological indicators. The optimal doses of calcium ammonium nitrate and ammonium sulfate were found in treatments 3 and 4, as well as in the control, with no significant difference among them. However, treatment 3, due to its lower dose, was more cost effective. To improve cost efficiency in practical production, it is recommended to use the lower concentration ratio of treatment 3 for plant tissue culture plantlets.

Background: Drought and heat stress are significant concerns to food security in arid and semi-arid regions, where global warming is predicted to increase both frequency and severity. To cope with these challenges, the use of drought-tolerant plants or technological interventions are essential. In this study, the effects of foliar potassium nitrate (KNO3) application on the stress tolerance and recovery of Myrobalan 29C rootstocks (Prunus cerasifera Ehrh.) were evaluated. These rootstocks are widely recognized for their adaptability and are extensively used in fruit production. To assess their response, the rootstocks were subjected to drought, heat shock, or a combination of both stressors. Additionally, they were treated with 1.0% KNO3 via foliar application. Throughout the stress and recovery periods, various morphological, physiological, and bio-chemical parameters were measured. Results: Based on our results, KNO3 treatment improved LRWC, Chl stability, SC, and key stress markers like proline, MDA, H2O2, along with antioxidant enzymes CAT, SOD, POD during both stress and recovery phases. Moreover, our results emphasized KNO3's critical role in hormone regulation under stress. KNO3 application significantly altered hormone levels, notably increasing ABA during drought and heat shock stress, essential for stress response and adaptation. In contrast, IAA, GA, and cytokinin’s significantly increased during the recovery phase in KNO3-treated plants, indicating improved growth regulation and stress recovery. In addition, KNO3 application improved the recovery process of the rootstocks by restoring their physiological and biochemical functions. Conclusion: This study suggests that the application of foliar KNO3 is an effective technique for enhancing the drought and heat tolerance as well as the recovery of Myrobalan 29C rootstocks. These results hold significant value for farmers, policymakers, and researchers, as they offer crucial insights into the development of drought-tolerant crops and the management of climate change’s adverse effects on agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium disilicate (LD) glass-ceramics have adequate mechanical properties and are considered as a candidate for repairing large bone defects. However, LD glass-ceramic is an inherently inert restorative material, which cannot induce new bone tissue. In the present study, LD glass-ceramics were ion-exchanged at 235 °C for 16 h, 64 h and 128 h in a mixed salt bath of sodium nitrate and potassium nitrate (1:1 M ratio) respectively. A gradient concentration distribution of Na+-rich layer was obtained by Li+/Na+ exchange and Na+ ions were released from the Li+/Na+ exchanged LD glass-ceramics in an aqueous condition. The hydroxyapatite (HA) layer was formed on Li+/Na+ exchanged LD glass-ceramic and exhibited a significant exchange time-dependent after soaking in the simulated body fluid (SBF). Moreover, the Li+/Na+ exchange treatment could improve cell adhesion, proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of LD glass-ceramic significantly, and long-time treatment could achieve a better performance. Therefore, ion-exchange process is a feasible strategy to promote the surface biomineralization, cytocompatibility and osteogenesis of LD glass-ceramics. These results suggest that Li+/Na+ exchange is a promising process for LD glass-ceramic application in clinical orthopedic reconstruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The germination of cannabis treatments varied with landrace and treatments. • H 2 SO 4 , GA 3 , and KNO 3 enhanced the germination capacity of cannabis landraces. • Control produced vigorous seedlings compared dormancy-breaking pre-treatments. The current study evaluated the effectiveness of different pre-treatments for dormancy breaking and seed germination of five cannabis landraces. These landraces were collected from local growers in three regions of KwaZulu-Natal Province in South Africa, namely, Bergville (B), Hammersdale (H), and Ladysmith (L). Each genotype was assigned an alphabet and number based on where the seed material was collected. The five landraces were as follows, 'B1', 'K1', 'H1', 'L1', and 'L2'. The study was conducted using various pre-treatments, including potassium nitrate (KNO 3), hydrochloric acid (HCL), hot water (HW) at 70 °C, nitric acid (HNO 3), dry prechilling at 10 °C, gibberellic acid (GA 3), sulfuric acid (H 2 SO 4), and water, which served as the control. Before the germination test, the seed viability of cannabis landraces was assessed using the tetrazolium chloride (TCC) test. Afterward, the seeds were germinated in Petri dishes with cotton pads moistened with distilled water for five (5) days. The study was later validated under tunnel conditions. The parameters such as germination percentage, germination rate, seedling length, and seed vigour index of the germinated seeds were then measured. The landraces, dormancy breaking treatments, and their interactions showed significant differences (p < 0.001) in germination percentage, germination rate index, seedling length, and seed vigour index under both laboratory and tunnel conditions. In summary, GA 3 , KNO 3 and prechilling were the most effective pre-treatments to improve the germination and seedling growth of cannabis genotypes and breaking seed dormancy. Therefore, it was concluded that cannabis genotypes had physiological dormancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve the low efficiency of microbial denitrification under strong alkaline environment, an aerobic denitrifying strain with strong alkaline adaptability was isolated from Shanghai paddy soil. The strain was identified as Acinetobacter junii by cell morphology and 16S rDNA analysis, and named as Acinetobacter junii strain 5-2. The effect of denitrification under different environmental conditions was investigated with single-factor effect experiments, and it was found that it could maintain a high nitrate removal rate(>90%) within a certain pH(7.0-12.0) and salt mass concentration range(10-30 g/L). After 120 h incubation with sodium acetate as carbon source, potassium nitrate as nitrogen source, m(C)/m(N) of 12, temperature of 35°, rotation of 90 r/min, initial pH of 10.0 and initial nitrate-nitrogen content of 41.07 mg/L, the removal rates of nitrate-nitrogen and total nitrogen by this strain were 97.83% and 65.85% respectively. Meanwhile, the activity and genes of enzymes related to aerobic denitrification of this strain were examined. The results show that Acinetobacter junii strain 5-2 has high aerobic denitrification capacity and is expected to be applied to treat actual nitrogenous wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploding foil initiator (EFI) is a kind of advanced device for initiating explosives, but its function is unstable when it comes to directly igniting pyrotechnics. To solve the problem, this research aims to reveal the ignition mechanism of EFIs directly igniting pyrotechnics. An oscilloscope, a photon Doppler velocimetry, and a plasma spectrum measurement system were employed to obtain information of electric characteristics, impact pressure, and plasma temperature. The results of the electric characteristics and the impact pressure were inconsistent with ignition results. The only thing that the ignition success tests had in common was that their plasma all had a relatively long period of high-temperature duration (HTD). It eventually concludes that the ignition mechanism in this research is the microconvection heat transfer rather than the shock initiation, which differs from that of exploding foil initiators detonating explosives. Furthermore, the methods for evaluating the ignition success of semiconductor bridge initiators are not entirely applicable to the tests mentioned in this paper. The HTD is the critical parameter for judging the ignition success, and it is influenced by two factors: the late time discharge and the energy of the electric explosion. The longer time of the late time discharge and the more energy of the electric explosion, the easier it is to expand the HTD, which improves the probability of the ignition success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arthrospira platensis, known as spirulina, is a cyanobacterium with multiple nutritional benefits, as it contains substantial amounts of proteins, fatty acids, and pigments. However, the production of this microalga has faced significant challenges, primarily related to the cost and composition of the required culture medium for its optimal growth. This study focused on optimizing two nitrogen sources (urea and potassium nitrate) to maximize the growth of A. platensis and the production of phycocyanin, a photosynthetic pigment of significant commercial value. Optimization was performed using the response surface methodology (RSM) with a central composite design (CCD). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was employed to validate the model, which revealed that the different concentrations of urea were statistically significant (p < 0.05) for biomass and phycocyanin production. However, potassium nitrate (KNO3) showed no significant influence (p > 0.05) on the response variables. The RSM analysis indicated that the optimal concentrations of KNO3 and urea to maximize the response variables were 3.5 g L−1 and 0.098 g L−1, respectively. This study offers valuable perspectives for the efficient production of A. platensis while reducing production costs for its cultivation on a larger scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an important economic plant, Lycopersicon esculentum (Mill.) faces salinity stress from germination to all growth stages. The aim of this study is to ride salt-induced agriculture difficulties of tomato by applying different chemical seed priming: ascorbic acid (ASA), potassium nitrate (KNO3) and calcium nitrate (CaNO3) during two time periods which are 24 and 48 hours. In the current case, the seeds were pre-treated with previously mentioned chemicals for varying periods of time before germination in a salt solution (100 mM NaCl). The treatments were replicated three times. For no primed seeds, salt treatment decreased germination parameters as well as seedling growth parameters (fresh weight, epicotyl and root length and chlorophyll content). Different chemical seed priming alleviated the salt harmful effect on germination and growth parameters. In saline conditions, the priming agents, had more significant effect in comparison with normal conditions. Significantly, the treatment including CaNO3-48-h priming, had high efficacy in promoting germination and plant growth and is associated with reduced levels of leaf proline and malondialdehyde (MDA) content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plum is a temperate fruit tree and thus shows abundant vegetative bud percentage and flowering following extended periods of low winter temperatures. When adequate periods of low temperatures do not occur, it is necessary to apply products to stimulate bud dormancy break and uniform leaf and flower appearance. This application is more frequently needed when plum trees are grown in the tropics. The objective of this study was to evaluate alternative products for breaking dormancy in 'Reubennel' plum in subtropical regions. The experiment was conducted at a site located at 22°22'S, 43°77'W and 1,173 m altitude, with a Cwa climate type. The following treatments were applied to eight-year-old 'Reubennel' plum trees in the 2018 and 2019 production cycles: 1) a negative standard composed of only water (control), a positive standard composed of 2) 1.5% hydrogen cyanamide (HC) (Dormex® commercial product) plus 4.5% mineral oil, 3) Erger G® organomineral fertilizer supplemented with 3% calcium nitrate, 4) 5% potassium nitrate and 5) 0.3% copper sulfate. Two liters of the treatment solutions were applied per plant with a sprayer. The effect of the tested products on vegetative bud percentage and flowering capacity, production cycle reduction and production and quality of 'Reubennel' plums was evaluated. It was concluded that the chemicals used to break dormancy affected only the phenology of plum trees in this subtropical region and that the application of copper sulfate can be used to break dormancy in these trees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Muscari comosum (L.) Mill. is a spontaneous plant that grows in the whole Mediterranean area, including the Basilicata and Puglia regions (southern Italy), where it has received inclusion in the Italian National List for Traditional Agri-Food Product (TAP). The food and medicinal uses of bulb are ancient due to its antioxidant properties and high variety of nutrients, such as starch, sugars, and minerals. Muscari seed is characterized by morpho-physiological dormancy, and in order to achieve uniform germination, some pre-germinative treatments are needed. In this research, the effects of hydro-priming and osmo-priming, i.e., PEG 8000 and KNO3, as well as three germination temperatures (4, 10, and 20 °C), have been evaluated. In general, the average results pointed out that the pre-treatments increased the germination index (GI) by 5% and the germination percentage (GP) by 3% compared to the no-primed control. The germination temperature of 10 °C significantly reduced the median germination time (T50) by 5.4 days and the mean germination time (MGT) by 5 days compared to temperature at 4 °C. In particular, the best results were obtained by "hydro-priming treatment × 10 °C" interaction, in terms of T50 (34.9 days) and MGT (36.3 days). This combination decreased the T50 by 10.5 days and the MGT by 9.6 days compared to the "control × 4 °C" interaction. Pearson's correlation matrix results highlighted a significant positive link between T50 and MGT (r = 0.993). In conclusion, these techniques enhanced the germination potential so that the use of pre-treated seeds could be included in a cultivation protocol to improve the germination phase and satisfy the growing demand for Italian bulbs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is shown, by utilizing the energy levels determined by the Bethe- Saltpeter equation which includes recoil and retardation effects for a scalar fermion bound state which have been calculated the to 4th [1] for the -K+ atom, the physical size of the charged K-meson can be determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Underwater germination could risk seedling survival, suggesting the need for control through seed perception of environmental cues. These cues include diurnally alternating temperatures tied to drained soils or shallow water tables. We examined high-amplitude alternating temperatures impact on underwater germination. Besides, the conditions experimented by seeds in the soil (e.g. hydration/dehydration phases) change their germinability so we tested if osmopriming could affect underwater germination. We worked with Echinochloa colona seedlots from extensive crop fields, exposing seeds to sequential submergence and drained treatments in combination with cues that promote germination. While a 10℃ difference between maximumand minimumdaily temperatures maximised germination in drained conditions, higher amplitudes (>15℃) alternating temperatures promoted E. colona underwater germination under hypoxic water (pO2 < 4.1 kPa). KNO3 osmopriming in drained conditions promoted later underwater germination even under hypoxic water; however, PEG 6000 osmopriming induced seeds to enter secondary dormancy inhibiting underwater germination. KNO3 improved E. colona underwater germination under air-equilibrated floodwater (pO2: 16.5-17.4 kPa) yet not under hypoxic conditions. This suggests that germination can proceed in flooded nitrate-fertile soils as long as it remains aerobic. Hypoxic submergence did not inhibit the induction of hypersensitivity to light in E. colona seeds. This research expands our understanding of wetland seed germination ecophysiology, shedding light on the inducible nature of underwater germination in hydrophyte weeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The solubility of the components in the ZnSO4 - KNO3 - H2O system was studied by the visual-polythermal method in the temperature range from -7.0°C to 42.0°C. The phase diagram delimits the fields of ice crystallization, KNO3, K2SO4·ZnSO4·6H2O, and ZnSO4. A solubility diagram was constructed, and a new compound K2SO4·ZnSO4·6H2O was separated. The new compound was identified by chemical, X-ray phase, thermogravimetric, and IR spectroscopic analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Techniques such as fertilization can be used more frequently to achieve higher crop yields. The problem of excessive use of fertilizers is related to losses of nutrients by leaching contaminating water bodies. Adopting controlled-release fertilizers may favor the reduction of losses and the total cost of fertilization as the number of applications is reduced. This research aimed to study the dynamics of nutrients from polymer-coated fertilizers (KNO3 controlled-release polymers) in sandy soil and analyze the spatial variation of soil solution storage at different depths when drip irrigation is adopted. Four soil boxes filled with Quartzipsamment and equipped with a mesh of 19 TDR probes were used to monitor soil moisture and electrical conductivity. Three soil boxes received the treatment of 50 g of the controlled-release polymer, and one soil box was used as a control. One liter of water was applied weekly through a drip irrigation system for ten weeks, followed by readings from the TDR probes to monitor the spatial variation of the soil solution storage in the soil profile. This monitoring allowed verifying that the release of nutrients happened slowly and gradually over the period without water retention by the material. The solution was displaced by advection (mass flow) and dispersion along with the irrigation water, which advanced more than the nutrients within the profile, reducing their leaching. Thus, controlled-release polymers maintained a slow and variable release over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted for three consecutive years (2018/19-2020/21) to investigate the adoption status of cotton crop production practices in Sri Muktsar Sahib district in south-western Punjab. Data pooled for three years showed that the majority of farmers (67.8%) ensured crop sowing at the recommended time, while 32.8 per cent delayed cotton sowing due to the non-availability of canal water for timely pre-sowing irrigation. Concerning nutrition management, 18.5, 45.5 and 33.5 per cent of farmers applied recommended doses of N, P, and K fertilizers, respectively, and 89.5 per cent of farmers applied two or more sprays of potassium nitrate (KNO3). For the management of insect pests, during 2018-19, ~52.9 per cent of farmers had to apply 5-6 sprays, while during the next two years, ~55.4 and 81.5 per cent of farmers applied 3-4 insecticide sprays. The average seed cotton yield during 1st year of study (2018-19) was 15.6 q ha-1 which was increased to 22.6 q ha-1 during 2019-20 and 23.1 q ha-1 during 2020-21. This study reiterates that there is a need to update the farmers regarding knowledge of improved cotton cultivation techniques for efficient weed, nutrition, water, and insect-pest management in cotton cultivation in Punjab. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess new flowering inducers used to increase the fruit yield in mango cv. Ataulfo trees, to substitute paclobutrazol. Design/methodology/approach: Ten-year-old mango cv. Ataulfo trees were used, homogeneous in terms of health. The treatments evaluated were prohexadione calcium, cytokinins, itaconic acid, phosphonitrate, potassium nitrate and paclobutrazol. The experimental design was completely random blocks with five repetitions; each experimental unit and repetition consisted of one tree. The number of inflorescences, percentage of flowering, number of fruits, fruit yield by hectare, and profitability of treatments were assessed. The data were analyzed through ANOVA and Tukey's means comparison (p<0.05). Results: There were no significant effects of the treatments for number of inflorescences, percentage of flowering, and number of fruits; however, the homogeneous formation of inflorescences was found with itaconic acid. Prohexadione calcium (P-Ca) presented the highest fruit yield (19.32 t ha-1), but it does not differ from paclobutrazol (10.34 t ha-1). The highest profitability of the crop was obtained with prohexadione calcium, in which for each peso invested the amount of $1.51 was recovered. Findings/conclusions: Prohexadione calcium can be an alternative for the use of paclobutrazol to induce flowering and increase the fruit yield of mango cv. Ataulfo in the Coast of Guerrero. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Festuca species are forage grasses that are very important in terms of fodder supply and soil protection. The seeds of these plants have internal dormancy (physiological) and are unable to germinate easily. Therefore, they must be subjected to various treatments to germinate. In nature, this dormancy is broken during the cold period of winter (chilling). The purpose of this research is to investigate different methods of dormancy breaking in Festuca species for large-scale production and accelerate the germination process. Materials and methods: In this research, three species of Festuca (Festuca arundinacea, F. ovina, and F. rubra) were subjected to different treatments of chilling (4°C, 14 days), osmo-priming with potassium nitrate (KNO3) 1.5% and gibberellic acid 150 and 200 ppm. After 14 days of germination test, various germination indices including percentage and rate of germination, mean germination time, seed vigor index, length of radicle, shoot and seedling, and the ratio of radicle to shoot length were calculated. Results: The results of the analysis of variance showed a significant difference between species (except for germination percentage and root length traits) and treatments (for all traits). The interactions between the species and treatment were also significant for all traits (except for the length of radicle and seedling). Among the three species, the percentage of germination varied from 26.67 to 30.67% and the value of the germination rate varied from 1.92 to 3.31 n/d. The average time required for germination varied from 3.75 to 4.36 days and the seed vigor index varied from 26.74 to 43.02. The radicle length was between 37.22 and 45 mm and the shoot length was between 37.34 and 81.33 mm. Based on principal components analysis (PCA), percentage and rate of germination, seed vigor index, and length of radicle and seedling were introduced as the most important factors in creating diversity in Festuca species. In determining the correlation between traits, a high correlation of 70% was observed between germination percentage, germination rate, and seed vigor index. Conclusion: Among the three species, Festuca rubra was superior to the other two species by having the highest percentage and rate of germination, seed vigor, radical length, and the shortest time required for germination. Among the applied treatments, 1.5% potassium nitrate (KNO3) with chilling (4°C, for 14 days), had a positive effect on the percentage and rate of germination, radical length, and gibberellic acid (150 ppm) treatment had a positive effect on the length of shoot and seedling. The presence of high germination percentage and rate indicated higher seed vigor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the work was to obtain a dense and uniform calcium phosphate (Ca-P) coating on the studied magnesium (Mg) alloy using simple methods that are easy to implement on an industrial scale. In this work, Ca-P layers were prepared on the surface of a Mg alloy. The simple wet chemical method based on immersion in an aqueous solution was used to prepare the Ca-P layer on the Mg alloy (AM60) surface. The effect of chemical modification by potassium chloride (KCl) and potassium nitrate (KNO3), as well as annealing on the morphology of the phosphate layers on the AM60 alloy, was determined, as well as the impact of this layer on the evolution of hydrogen in Ringer's solution. The addition of KCl and KNO3 to the phosphating bath caused coagulation and agglomeration of the elements of the Ca-P coating. Consequently, the flake structure of the Ca-P coating changes into two types of structures: chrysanthemum and rhombohedral. Annealing at 150 °C for 3 h allows one to obtain a dense and uniform Ca-P coating on the studied Mg alloy. The Ca-P coating obtained by annealing at 150 °C can greatly decrease the hydrogen evolution rate of AM60 alloy in Ringer's solution to 0.02 ml/cm2/day, which is similar to the safe amount of hydrogen for the human body (H2 ≈ 0.01 ml/cm2/day). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a reliable redox mediator, potassium nitrate was employed in homogeneous electrolysis with CH3CN at room temperature to electrochemically oxidize aryl compounds. The oxidation reactions carried out in an undivided cell that was provided with a carbon anode and a stainless steel cathode, along with the minimum amount of H2SO4 at a current density of 50 mA/cm2. A variety of substituted toluenes and aromatic alcohols were effectively oxidized to the corresponding aldehydes with the maximum degree of selectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Limnospira maxima, a photosynthetic bacterium with valuable proteins and pigments, faces cultivation challenges due to a lack of management knowledge and expensive nitrogen sources. This study aimed to find an efficient method for large-scale cultivation through testing different light colors and nitrogen sources. The study's results showed that using white lights and potassium nitrate was the most effective approach, promoting growth and increasing the production of phycocyanin, a valuable blue pigment with applications in food, health, and the dye and pigment industry. In summary, this research offers a cost-effective and efficient solution for cultivating Limnospira maxima on a larger scale. This has the potential to positively impact food production and various industrial goods, providing a more sustainable and accessible source of phycocyanin and other valuable components. Cultivating Limnospira maxima, renowned for its abundant proteins and valuable pigments, faces substantial challenges rooted in the limited understanding of its optimal growth parameters, associated high costs, and constraints in the procurement of traditional nitrogen sources, particularly NaNO3. To overcome these challenges, we conducted a comprehensive 4 × 3 factorial design study. Factors considered included white, red, blue, and yellow light spectra, along with nitrogen sources NaNO3 and KNO3, as well as a nitrogen-free control, for large-scale implementation. Optimal growth, measured by Optical Density, occurred with white and yellow light combined with KNO3 as the nitrogen source. These conditions also increased dry weight and Chl-a content. Cultures with nitrogen deprivation exhibited high values for these variables, attributed to carbon accumulation in response to nitrogen scarcity. Phycocyanin, a crucial pigment for nutrition and industry, reached its highest levels in cultures exposed to white light and supplemented with KNO3, with an impressive content of 384.11 g kg−1 of dry weight. These results highlight the efficacy and cost-efficiency of using a combination of white light and KNO3 for large-scale L. maxima cultivation. This strategy offers promising opportunities to address global food security challenges and enhance the production of industrially relevant pigments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boron/potassium nitrate (B/KNO3) is a type of critical energetic composite material (ECM). However, the inert oxide layer on the B surface of B/KNO3 hinders the contact between pure fuel and oxidant, thus limiting energy release This limitation could be eliminated by adding highly reactive Al powder. To discern the effects of Al powder size on the reaction process and reactivity of B/KNO3, this study prepared Al/B/KNO3/polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) energetic sticks using the direct ink writing (DIW) technology. This study characterized the macroscopic morphology and structure of the energetic sticks using a laser scanning microscope and a scanning electron microscope, examined the reaction process of the composites using a differential scanning calorimeter and a thermogravimetric analyzer, and observed the flame propagation behavior of energetic sticks and energetic architectures using a high-speed camera. Furthermore, it tested the pressure output characteristics of the energetic composites using a closed volume tank. The results show that adding Al powder can improve the combustion efficiency of B/Al composite fuels and reduce the agglomeration of the combustion products. The Al powder with various particle sizes affects various reaction stages of the composite. The combustion and pressure output tests suggest that adding Al powder with a particle size of 1 µm yielded high reactivity and that flame jump propagation appeared in energetic architectures when the channel spacing was below 10 mm. These findings provide a guide for modifying the B/KNO3 energetic composites and regulating the reactivity of energetic sticks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Techniques such as fertilization can be used more frequently to achieve higher crop yields. The problem of excessive use of fertilizers is related to losses of nutrients by leaching contaminating water bodies. Adopting controlled-release fertilizers may favor the reduction of losses and the total cost of fertilization as the number of applications is reduced. This research aimed to study the dynamics of nutrients from polymer-coated fertilizers (KNO3 controlled-release polymers) in sandy soil and analyze the spatial variation of soil solution storage at different depths when drip irrigation is adopted. Four soil boxes filled with Quartzipsamment and equipped with a mesh of 19 TDR probes were used to monitor soil moisture and electrical conductivity. Three soil boxes received the treatment of 50 g of the controlled-release polymer, and one soil box was used as a control. One liter of water was applied weekly through a drip irrigation system for ten weeks, followed by readings from the TDR probes to monitor the spatial variation of the soil solution storage in the soil profile. This monitoring allowed verifying that the release of nutrients happened slowly and gradually over the period without water retention by the material. The solution was displaced by advection (mass flow) and dispersion along with the irrigation water, which advanced more than the nutrients within the profile, reducing their leaching. Thus, controlled-release polymers maintained a slow and variable release over time.

High temperatures in late spring, summer, and autumn are one of the main elements limiting cucumber production. Heat stress in cucumber plants leads to significant changes in sex expression and negative effects at the physiological stage, including decreased absorption of water and nutrients, decreased photosynthetic functions, and increased respiration, which in turn affects growth and production. Therefore, it is very difficult for cucumber plants exposed to heat stress to improve their productivity, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. Cucumber plants bear a variety of flower forms, including staminate, pistillate, and hermaphrodites that occur in different arrangements. In addition, maleness is considered the main problem in cucumber production, as it significantly reduces fruit yield. Recently, the growth, flowering, and productivity of plants have been controlled with the help of growth-regulating substances, and one of these substances is naphthalene acetic acid (NAA), which is of great importance in modifying sex in cucumber and various cucurbit crops. Two experiments were conducted during 2022 and 2023 during the summer season to study the effect of foliar spraying of two levels of potassium nitrate, 500 mg/L and 1000 mg/L, and two levels of NAA, 50 mg/L and 100 mg/L, individually and together, and the comparison treatment in nine treatments on growth traits, sex ratio, fruit traits and yield of cucumber (Cucumis sativas L.) plants in three replicates in a completely randomized block design. The results indicated that applying the treatment containing 1000 mg/L KNO3 + 100 mg/L NAA led to obtaining the highest value in most vegetable growth, flowering, and production parameters, with a significant increase compared to the control and all other treatments. Followed by treatments consisting of potassium nitrate and NAA, which gave high values in the traits of sex ratio %, fruit setting %, fruit yield, and most other traits. This study showed the importance of spraying with both NAA and potassium nitrate, individually or in combination, and the high combined effect of both in the treatments that contained each of them in the vegetative growth traits and floral traits such as the number of female flowers, the sexual ratio, fruit set percentage, weight fruit, length fruit, and the fruit yield in cucumber plants grown in the summer season with high temperatures

Seed dormancy is one of the most important adaptive mechanisms in plants, optimizing germination, seedling emergence, and establishment to ensure these processes occur when environmental conditions are favorable for plant survival and growth. Endemic to rocky environments of the southern Atacama Desert, the Austral papaya (Carica chilensis) is the papaya species with the southernmost distribution within the Caricaceae, thriving in the most extreme environmental conditions. This threatened plant exhibits low natural regeneration, primarily attributed to low germination, yet no information regarding seed dormancy release is available. In this study, we investigated the dormancy-break and germination requirements of C. chilensis. We hypothesized that if C. chilensis seeds exhibit physiological dormancy, then seeds with reduced moisture content and those treated with chemicals or growth hormones would exhibit higher germination percentages and faster germination than control seeds akin to other members of Caricacea. Our results confirmed this prediction and revealed that ultra-drying (< 3% moisture content) and treating seeds with sulfuric acid, gibberellic acid, or potassium nitrate are the most effective methods for germinating C. chilensis. Consequently, we suggest using these treatments to propagate this threatened papaya species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oral history indicates that a large wooden trough held in storage at the University of Kentucky's William S. Webb Museum of Anthropology was a component of the saltpeter mining operation in Mammoth Cave in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, worked largely by enslaved persons. We used multiple heritage science methods, including radiocarbon wiggle-match dating, tree-ring dating, scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM–EDS), and optical scanning, combined with historical research, to examine the trough. Our analysis supports the oral history of the trough as an artifact of the mining system in Mammoth Cave. This case study illustrates how heritage science methods can provide corroboration for the origins and biographies of poorly documented historical artifacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current investigation represents of the synergistic effects of application of potassium nitrate (KNO3) in combination with putrescine (Put) on flowering, productivity, and fruit quality on Ewais mango (Mangifera indica L.) trees during the seasons 2021/2022 and 2022/2023. The selected trees were sprayed at three different stages, including flower bud differentiation, full bloom, and beginning of the fruit set, with one of the following treatments: control, 2% KNO3, 4% KNO3, 50 ppm Put, 75 ppm Put, 2% KNO3 + 50 ppm Put, 2% KNO3 + 75 ppm Put, 4% KNO3 + 50 ppm Put, 4% KNO3 + 75 ppm Put. Results showed that all treatments were successful in improving the productivity of mango trees by increasing flowering terminal shoots, fruit set, fruit retention, number of fruits/tree, yield, and fruit yield increment while reducing the percentage of fruit drop, as well as improving the quality of mango fruits cv. Ewais by increasing fruit length, fruit diameter, TSS, total sugars, V.C, and total phenol and carotenoid content, but at the same time, diminishing the total acidity, as compared with control. Based on this research, the application of 4% KNO3 in conjunction with 75 ppm Putrescine has shown the most prominent advances in enhancing Ewais tree productivity and fruit quality. The investigation successfully highlighted the synergistic effect of using KNO3 and putrescine to improve mango fruit yield and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar, a carbon-rich solid produced from biomass pyrolysis, has attracted growing interest as a fertiliser ingredient due to its ability to non-permanently retain nutrients. A greenhouse pot experiment was set up to compare three commercial organo-mineral fertiliser formulations (NPK, NP and K) with the corresponding formulations containing a slow-pyrolysis wood biochar (NPK+B, NP+B and K+B) (6 replications each). Nutrient leaching as well as crop growth and nutrient uptake was monitored using barley as model species. Nutrient leaching was slowed down in the NPK+B compared to the NPK fertiliser. The most responsive ions were nitrate and potassium, whose leaching during the two first weeks was reduced by 28% and 22%, respectively, while this trend reversed from the third week on. One plausible explanation would be a microbial nutrient immobilisation mediated by the concurrent NPK and biochar habitat provision. NPK+B significantly enhanced barley straw biomass (23.43% increase respect to NPK), whereas all the biochar-based fertilisers showed increases in nutrient content and export (involving potassium, sulphur, calcium and manganese), possibly indicating that biochar acted as a nutrient source. These results provide some evidence of the potential use of the studied biochar in biochar-based fertilisers to meet nutrient availability with plant demands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mixing state and density are two key parameters of aerosol particles affecting their impacts on radiative forcing and human health. Here a single-particle aerosol mass spectrometer in tandem with a differential mobility analyzer and an aerodynamic aerosol classifier was deployed during the Beijing 2022 Olympic Winter Games (OWG) to investigate the impacts of emission controls on particle mixing state and density. Our results show the dominance of carbonaceous particles comprising mainly total elemental carbon (Total-EC, 13.4 %), total organic carbon (Total-OC, 10.5 %) and Total-ECOC (47.1 %). Particularly, the particles containing organic carbon and sulfate were enhanced significantly during OWG, although those from primary emissions decreased. The composition of carbonaceous particles also changed significantly which was characterized by the decreases in EC mixed with nitrate and sulfate (EC-NS), EC mixed with potassium nitrate (KEC-N), and amine-containing particles and increase in ECOC mixed with nitrate and sulfate (ECOC-NS). This result indicates that emission controls during OWG reduced the mixing of EC with inorganic aerosol species and amines yet increased the mixing of EC with organic aerosol. The average effective density (ρeff) of aerosol particles (150–300 nm) was 1.15 g cm -3 during the non-Olympic Winter Games (nOWG), with higher values during OWG (1.26 g cm -3) due to the increase in secondary particle contribution. In addition, the ρeff of most particles increased with the increases in pollution levels and relative humidity, yet they varied differently for different types of particles, highlighting the impacts of aging and formation processes on the changes of particle density and mixing state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rise in environmental nitrogen (N) is a worldwide concern, particularly in southern China, which contains highly N-contaminated areas. The ecological outcome of the increase in N should be paid additional consideration. Thus, this study was conducted to assess the impact of N on seed germination and seedling emergence of four timber species in subtropical southern China. We conducted a growth chamber experiment with three nitrogen fertilizers i.e., Ammonium sulfate (NH4)2SO4, Ammonium Nitrate (NH4NO3), and Potassium Nitrate (KNO3) with three concentrations (0.1%, 0.5% & 1%) along with control treatment (CK). We hypothesized that the impact of N on seed germination and seedling emergence would differ among species and N levels. Results showed that higher N concentration affected Cunninghamia lanceolata, Fokienia hodginisi and Pinus massoniana seedlings compared with Phoebe zhennan. Overall, fresh and dry weight as well as the length of broad-leaved species was better than coniferous and pine species. It was observed that 1% KNO3 solution enhanced the germination capacity, germination time, radicle, and hypocotyl elongation along with fresh and dry weights as compared to (NH4)2SO4 and NH4NO3. The outcome showed that deposition of 1% KNO3 is promising to increase the germination of seed and seedlings emergence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Wild oat is a widespread threat to annual crop production on the Canadian Prairies. Infestations are difficult to manage due to a persistent seedbank, complex dormancy, a long emergence window, herbicide resistance, and seed shatter corresponding to crop harvest timings. The study objective was to evaluate the efficacy of potassium nitrate (KNO3) and pyroligneous acid for promoting germination and emergence of wild oat and volunteer wheat, barley, and oat. A total of 24 repeated experiments were conducted using freshly produced seeds to ensure adequate endodormancy. Wheat and barley demonstrated no endodormancy following seed formation and rapidly emerged with moisture. All species imbibed but did not germinate in Petri dishes within pyroligneous acid solutions of 5%-100%. Dormancy release was observed within 0.1% and 1% pyroligneous acid solutions. KNO3 did not stimulate germination or emergence for any species and was inhibitory at 125 kg N ha-1. Pyroligneous acid increased wild oat emergence with 50% and 100% solutions applied at 200 L ha-1 in the first study and with 10% solutions in the second study. Emergence inhibition was noted for oat, barley, and wheat with pyroligneous acid applications. This research further confirms that pyroligneous acid may stimulate wild oat emergence and confirms activity on freshly matured seed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To estimate the fig (Ficus carica L.) yield in fertigation, through the use of linear regression, under the conditions of the Mixteca region of Puebla. Design/Methodology/Approach: The plants were established in 10-L black polyethylene bags, using pine sawdust as a substrate. The treatments consisted of 6 variations of the following nutrient solution: 1.52 mg L-1 of potassium nitrate, 0.08 mL L-1 of phosphoric acid, and 0.38 mg L-1 of magnesium sulfate. Plant height, number of fruits per plant, and growth speed (cm day-1) were determined. A completely randomized experimental design was used and the levels of nutrient solution and orthogonal contrasts were subjected to a linear regression analysis, through the SAS® On Demand for Academics statistical package. Results: The linear model describes the behavior of the data with an alpha of 0.01. A 60% nutrient solution level has a greater effect on growth and generates highly significant differences in both the plant height increase rate and plant height variables. Study Limitations/Implications: This study includes only preliminary results; therefore, a longer period is necessary for data collection. Additionally, the following variables must also be included: yield and the content of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium in plant tissue. Findings/Conclusions: Plant growth (height) can be estimated through the application of a linear model. An increasing linear behavior was observed in height with respect to the levels determined 50 days after the experiment was established. There are highly significant differences between the 60% dose and the rest of the treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity is one of the abiotic stresses that has a major role in limiting the development and cultivation of plants in the green space. One of the most sensitive periods in life cycle of plants is the stage of germination and establishment of the plant in the soil. The application of priming has been effective in improving the germination of many plants. The present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the effect of priming on the germination of the periwinkle seeds under salt stress. The experiment was conducted based on a factorial in a completely randomized design with three replications. The factors include four salinity levels using sodium chloride (0, 4, 8 and 12 dS/m) and five priming levels (potassium nitrate 100 and 200 mg/l and ascorbic acid 100 and 200 mg/l and distilled water). The results showed that salinity reduced all investigated traits, but seed priming was effective in modulating the effect of stress at all salinity levels. Potassium nitrate priming was more effective than ascorbic acid. In treatment without salt stress, the application of priming in some levels, parameters such as seedling length, seedling fresh and dry weight, tissue water content increased compared to the control. According to the results obtained from this experiment, it is suggested that more research be done to reach the appropriate level of potassium nitrate priming for germination of periwinkle plant under salinity stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The amount of waste heat generated annually in the UK exceeds the total annual electricity demand. Hence, it is crucial to effectively harness all available sources of waste heat based on their varying temperatures. Through suitable technologies, a substantial portion of this waste heat has the potential to be recovered for reutilization. Thermochemical energy storage (TCES) provides the best opportunities to recover waste heat at various temperatures for long-term storage and application. The potential of TCES with magnesium hydroxide, Mg(OH)2, has been established, but it has a relatively high dehydration temperature, thus limiting its potential for medium-temperature heat storage applications, which account for a vast proportion of industrial waste heat. To this end, samples of doped Mg(OH)2 with varying proportions (5, 10, 15, and 20 wt%) of potassium nitrate (KNO3) have been developed and characterized for evaluation. The results showed that the Mg(OH)2 sample with 5 wt% KNO3 achieved the best outcome and was able to lower the dehydration temperature of the pure Mg(OH)2 from about 317 °C to 293 °C with an increase in the energy storage capacity from 1246 J/g to 1317 J/g. It also showed a monodisperse surface topology and thermal stability in the non-isothermal test conducted on the sample and therefore appears to have the potential for medium heat storage applications ranging from 293 °C to 400 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sodium and potassium nitrates and nitrites are preservatives widely used in meat products and some cheese. They are important toxicologically but there is a lack of data on the exposure of the Brazilian population to these additives. This study aimed to verify the frequency of the use of nitrates and nitrites in processed foods in Brazil and to estimate their theoretical intake by the Brazilian population. A database was built of supermarket products containing nitrates, nitrites, and antioxidants. The Theoretical Maximum Daily Intake (TMDI) and TMDI balanced by the prevalence of food consumption (TMDI BPFC) were determined using consumption data from the Household Budget Surveys (2008/2009 and 2017/2018). The TMDI for nitrates and nitrites was lower than the Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for all population groups. Considering the prevalence of food consumption (consumers only), the TMDI BPFC values were lower than the ADI for nitrates (between 0.4 and 0.9 times the ADI) but very high values were obtained for nitrites (between 10 and 24 times the ADI). Our results suggest that the Brazilian population, especially some population groups, may be consuming unsafe amounts of nitrite. As a consequence, their health may be at risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spectrophotometric method monitored the uncatalysed redox reaction between Mn+7/H+ ions and mannose sugar molecules kinetically at constant ionic strength maintained using potassium nitrate (KNO3). The kinetic study showed that the reaction was pseudo-first order concerning Mn+7 and mannose, and the rate of reaction increases by increasing the concentration of Mn+7, mannose and H+ and increasing temperature. The reaction rate was enhanced by 3 × 10-4m of Mn+7 concentration, and the oxidation with Mn+7 was faster using 2 × 10-2m of mannose and 5 × 10-1m of H+. The temperature dependence was carried out under fixed experimental conditions, from which the activation energy of the reaction (Ea) in KJ.mol-1 was found to be 61.1, and the frequency factor (A) in sec-1 was 10.52 × 105 other physical functions, namely, the free energy change (κG) in KJ.mol-1 and the entropy change (ΔS) in J.K-1 were also calculated at different temperatures. Qualitative analysis of the reaction products revealed the formation of formic acid. A rate law was derived from the proposed mechanism, which agreed well with experimental kinetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]