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This phenomenon-driven unit focuses on students making sense of the mutually beneficial species interactions between legumes and rhizobia. Many science classes spend less time studying the nitrogen cycle due to time constraints and more focus on other cycles, such as the carbon cycle. However, the nitrogen cycle plays a vital role in the air we breathe, the creation of our DNA, and the ability of plants to grow. This phenomenon-driven, sensemaking approach enhances student curiosity and makes the learning experience more relevant, leading to deeper student buy-in. Throughout the unit, students have the chance to explore and explain what plants need to grow inside and/or outside, depending on your school's resources and space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three new flavonoids including two isoflavanones sophortones A and B (1 and 2), and one chalcone sophortone C (3) were isolated from the roots of Sophora tonkinensis. Their structures were established by UV, IR, HRESIMS, and NMR data. The absolute configurations of 1 and 2 were determined by electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Granado beans, widely cultivated in Chile, offer plant‐based proteins with functional benefits for healthier food formulations. These legumes have a 28% protein content (dry basis) with peptides called lectins that have the potential of reducing type‐II diabetes. Our lab has developed a membrane‐based method to produce protein isolates from oilseeds. This method was adapted for granado beans. The process involves alkaline extraction at pH 10, followed by ultrafiltration, diafiltration, acid precipitation at pH 4 and freeze‐drying. The resulting precipitated protein isolate contains 81% protein, comparable to other legumes. However, the acid‐soluble protein isolate (SPI) has a protein content of only 53% due to co‐recovery of high molecular weight carbohydrates. The total phenolic compound contents of the protein products were low resulting in both products having an attractive light colour with no astringent taste. The characterisation of the SPI by High‐Performance Liquid Chromatography found that it contained about 40% starch and other carbohydrates. To increase the protein content of SPI to ~90%, further purification steps to remove the carbohydrates are necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Calmodulin-binding transcription activator (CAMTA) is comprised of a group of transcription factors and plays an important role in the Ca2+ signaling pathway, mediating various molecular responses via interactions with other transcription factors and binding to the promoter region of specific genes. Mung beans (Vigna radiata) are one of the most commonly consumed commodities in Asia. To date, CAMTA proteins have not been characterized in this important crop plant. Results: Eight paralogous VrCAMTA genes were identified and found to be distributed on five of the 11 chromosomes. The proteins possessed CG-1 DNA-binding domains with bipartite NLS signals, ankyrin domains, CaM-binding IQ motifs, and CaM-binding domain (CaMBD). The 2 kb upstream regions of VrCAMTA genes contained sequence motifs of abscisic acid-responsive elements (ABRE) and ethylene-responsive elements (ERE), and binding sites for transcription factors of the bZIP and bHLH domains. Analysis of RNA-seq data from a public repository revealed ubiquitous expression of the VrCAMTA genes, as VrCAMTA1 was expressed at the highest level in seedling leaves, whereas VrCAMTA8 was expressed at the lowest level, which agreed with the RT-qPCR analysis performed on the first true leaves. On day four after leaf emergence, all VrCAMTA genes were upregulated, with VrCAMTA1 exhibiting the highest degree of upregulation. In darkness on day 4, upregulation was not observed in most VrCAMTA genes, except VrCAMTA7, for which a low degree of upregulation was found, whereas no difference was found in VrCAMTA8 expression between light and dark conditions. Treatment with calcium ionophores enhanced VrCAMTA expression under light and/or dark conditions at different times after leaf emergence, suggesting that calcium signaling is involved in the light-induced upregulation of VrCAMTA gene expression. Conclusions: The expression dependence of nearly all VrCAMTA genes on light and calcium signaling suggests their possible differential but likely complementary roles during the early stages of mung bean growth and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During routine field surveys in February 2023, in a commercial field located in Hegazah village, Qus, Qena governorate, Egypt (25°50'49"N 32°49'33"E), powdery mildew symptoms were observed on leaves of a local cultivar of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.). Microscopic characterization showed that conidiophores were cylindrical, hyaline, straight, erect to bent, forming conidia singly, primary conidia were apically narrowed, lanceolate, obtuse to pointed measuring, secondary conidia were ellipsoid or cylindrical, measuring. Germ tubes were close to the base. BLASTn results showed 100% similarity with the submitted sequences of Leveillula taurica for ITS rDNA, the obtained phylogenetic tree through the maximum likelihood method confirmed the BLASTn results. Morphological and molecular approaches confirmed the identity of Leveillula taurica (Lév.) G. Arnaud. The obtained ITS rDNA sequence was deposited in NCBI GenBank (OR472546). Pathogenicity tests were conducted, and Koch's postulates were fulfilled with the fungus. To our knowledge, this is the first report of powdery mildew caused by L. taurica (Lév.) G. Arnaud. on fenugreek in Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF) in legume-rhizobia serves as a sustainable source of nitrogen (N) in agriculture. However, the addition of inorganic N fertilizers significantly inhibits SNF, and the underlying mechanisms remain not-well understood. Here, we report that inorganic N disrupts iron (Fe) homeostasis in soybean nodules, leading to a decrease in SNF efficiency. This disruption is attributed to the inhibition of the Fe transporter genes Natural Resistance-Associated Macrophage Protein 2a and 2b (GmNRAMP2a&2b) by inorganic N. GmNRAMP2a&2b are predominantly localized at the tonoplast of uninfected nodule tissues, affecting Fe transfer to infected cells and consequently, modulating SNF efficiency. In addition, we identified a pair of N-signal regulators, nitrogen-regulated GARP-type transcription factors 1a and 1b (GmNIGT1a&1b), that negatively regulate the expression of GmNRAMP2a&2b, which establishes a link between N signaling and Fe homeostasis in nodules. Our findings reveal a plausible mechanism by which soybean adjusts SNF efficiency through Fe allocation in response to fluctuating inorganic N conditions, offering valuable insights for optimizing N and Fe management in legume-based agricultural systems. Symbiotic nitrogen fixation is a tightly regulated process serving as a sustainable source of nitrogen (N) in agriculture. Here it is shown that external N sources precisely regulate N fixation efficiency by modulating iron transport in nodules of legumes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lentil (Lens culinaris Medikus) is a nutrient-rich, cool-season food legume that is high in protein, prebiotic carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. It is a staple food in many parts of the world, but crop performance is threatened by climate change, where increased temperatures and less predictable precipitation can reduce yield and nutritional quality. One mechanism that many plant species use to mitigate heat and drought stress is the production of disaccharides, oligosaccharides and sugar alcohols, collectively referred to as low molecular weight carbohydrates (LMWCs). Recent evidence indicates that lentil may also employ this mechanism - especially raffinose family oligosaccharides and sugar alcohols - and that these may be suitable targets for genomic-assisted breeding to improve crop tolerance to heat and drought stress. While the genes responsible for LMWC biosynthesis in lentil have not been fully elucidated, single nucleotide polymorphisms and putative genes underlying biosynthesis of LMWCs have been identified. Yet, more work is needed to confirm gene identity, function, and response to abiotic stress. This review i) summarizes the diverse evidence for how LMWCs are utilized to improve abiotic stress tolerance, ii) highlights current knowledge of genes that control LMWC biosynthesis in lentil, and iii) explores how LMWCs can be targeted using diverse genomic resources and markers to accelerate lentil breeding efforts for improved stress tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food, feed, and fiber production needs to increase to support demands of the growing population in Sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA), while soil fertility continues to decline. Intercropping, the cultivation of two or more crop species on the same field, can provide yield benefits and is suggested to positively affect soil organic carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) stocks. This study uses the biogeochemical model system LandscapeDNDC with the objective to (a) represent maize‐legume intercropping systems in different bioregions in SSA by simultaneously simulating both crops and their interactions and (b) assess long‐term (20 years) impacts of intercropping under varying mineral fertilizer inputs (0–150 kg N ha−1 yr−1) on productivity as well as soil organic C and N stocks. We test LandscapeDNDC on 82 field data sets (site‐year‐treatment combinations) from 18 sites to represent yields and soil C/N dynamics of maize‐legume intercropping systems. Using the model for long‐term scenario simulations showed that intercropping allows to sustain productivity and to improve or maintain SOC stock in low or zero fertilizer systems if all residues are returned to the soil. In contrast, for sole‐cropped maize systems, a decline in SOC stocks was simulated unless a minimum of 35 kg N ha−1 yr−1 of fertilizer was applied at full residue return. We conclude that intercropping using legumes alongside sufficient residue return allows for stabilizing long‐term yields while avoiding SOC losses even with low fertilizer N inputs. Overall, our study confirms the potential of intercropping as a sustainable agricultural practice that could significantly contribute to food security in SSA. Key Points: Intercropping alongside sufficient residue return allows for stabilizing long‐term yieldsIntercropping allows to maintain SOC stocks in low or zero fertilizer systems if all residues are returned to the soilIntercropping reduces the amount of N fertilizer needed to maintain soil N stocks [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Legume crops play a key role in hastening both the agroecological and protein transition and improving the sustainability of cropping systems. Among legumes, chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is a valuable source of protein, fibers, and nutraceutical compounds, providing important agri-environmental effects. Nevertheless, few studies have explored the effect of genetic characteristics on production and quality traits in chickpea. Chickpea landraces seem particularly interesting for their positive agronomic and quality characteristics, opening the door for innovation in sustainable food systems. Thus, the present study aimed to characterize two chickpea Tuscan landraces (Rugoso della Maremma and Cappuccio della Valtiberina) in comparison with widely distributed commercial chickpea varieties (Ares, Maragià, Pascià, Principe, Reale, Sultano, and Vittoria). Our findings highlighted positive agronomic traits of landraces in terms of seed yield and yield components, demonstrating performance that is either superior or comparable to commercial varieties. Notably, Cappuccio della Valtiberina showed the highest 1000-seed weight (425.50 g), followed by Maragià (432.92 g), Principe (392.32 g), and Reale (382.79 g), and the highest harvest index (0.55), similar to Reale (0.55). Overall, landraces achieved 18.75% higher yields than commercial varieties. Regarding chickpea quality, landraces exhibited profiles comparable to those of commercial genotypes in terms of protein and oil content, as well as nutraceuticals. Interestingly, the two landraces had the most favorable ω-6/ω-3 ratios (Cappuccio della Valtiberina, 12.45; Rugoso della Maremma, 13.71) among the genotypes except for Maragià (11.78), indicating better nutritional quality compared to commercial varieties (>14.00). These results demonstrated that landraces could offer promising prospects for future chickpea breeding programs, aiding in the selection of genotypes capable of adapting to changing growing conditions and supporting the development of sustainable food systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The small Neotropical papilionoid legume genus Sigmoidotropis (nine species) has been described only relatively recently as the result of the taxonomic rearrangement of the genus Vigna (subtribe Phaseolinae), based on phylogenetic analyses of DNA sequence data. Here, we formally propose a new lianescent species of Sigmoidotropis that occurs disjunctly in enclaves of moist forest of mountainous regions surrounded by dry vegetation at three different localities in the Brazilian states of Bahia and Minas Gerais. Its phylogenetic position and morphological affinities with other genera of Phaseolinae were evaluated by Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood analyses, using sequence data from the nuclear ITS/5.8S and plastid trnK/matK. To better understand this new species' widely disjunct distribution and a possible connection between its populations in the past, an environmental niche modelling (ENM) analysis was performed. The phylogenetic analyses revealed that Sigmoidotropis appears closest to the genera Ancistrotropis and Delgadoana, together forming the Sigmoid‐keel clade. The new species proposed here is strongly recovered within Sigmoidotropis, being most closely related to S. ekmaniana, S. elegans, and S. megatyla. The ENM indicated changes in the potential distribution of the new species over different climatic periods, with expansion during colder periods and contraction during warmer periods, leading to possible relictual populations in moist forest enclaves. A description of the new species Sigmoidotropis maculata is presented, along with illustrations, a distribution map, taxonomic comments, and conservation status assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise: Reduced snow cover and increasing temperature variability can increase freezing stress for herbaceous plants in northern temperate regions. Legumes have emerged as a plant functional group that is highly sensitive to these changes relative to other herbaceous species in these regions. We explored root‐nodulating bacterial associations and cyanogenesis as potential mechanisms explaining this relatively low freezing tolerance of legumes. Methods: To examine the influence of bacterial associations, we grew four legume species with or without crushed‐nodule inoculum at three severities of freezing, and three concentrations of nitrogen to disambiguate the direct benefits of increased nitrogen from the total bacterial effect. We quantified cyanogenesis via hydrogen cyanide production in both true leaves and cotyledons for nine legume species. Results: Root nodulation generally only affected legume survival under low nitrogen, when freezing severity was moderate or low. However, for the frost‐surviving plants, the growth advantage provided by nodulation decreased (it was often no longer significant with increasing freezing severity), and greater freezing severity reduced total nodule mass. In contrast, cyanogenesis was only detected in two of the nine species. Conclusions: The diminished performance of nodulated plants in response to freezing could place legumes at a competitive disadvantage and potentially explain their high sensitivity to freezing relative to other herbaceous species in northern temperate regions. Overall, this result has important implications for changes in soil fertility, community composition, and plant productivity in these ecosystems in the context of a changing winter climate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Legumes are notorious for coevolutionary arms races where chemical defenses are employed to ward off herbivores—particularly insect seed predators. Locoweeds are legumes containing the toxic alkaloid swainsonine which can poison livestock, but its role as a deterrent for insects is unknown. Swainsonine is produced by the fungal endophyte Alternaria section Undifilum, and the chemical composition of the toxin has been well characterized. Despite this knowledge, the ecological roles and evolutionary drivers of swainsonine toxins in locoweeds remain uncertain. Here, we quantify swainsonine concentrations and herbivory levels in the hyper-diverse locoweed Astragalus lentiginosus to evaluate its role as an evolved chemical defense. We found that A. lentiginosus shows considerable variation in swainsonine concentrations according to variety, in particular showing presence/absence variation at both population and local geographic scales. Surprisingly, herbivory levels from presumed generalist insects emerging from fruits showed no correlation with swainsonine concentrations. Conversely, seed and fruit herbivory levels linked to specialist Acanthoscelides seed beetles increased with concentrations of swainsonine—suggesting a possible coevolutionary arms race. Our results highlight that variation in endophyte-produced toxin systems may not follow classical expectations for geographic variation and ecological roles of plant chemicals. We discuss the implications of these results on plant-endophytic toxin systems and coevolutionary dynamics more broadly, highlighting a considerable need for more research in these systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To describe adherence to sustainable healthy diets among a sample of 958 Chilean pre-schoolers (3–6 years) and explore associations between adherence and child and maternal sociodemographic and anthropometric characteristics. Methods: Children's adherence to sustainable healthy diets was calculated from single multiple-pass 24-h dietary recalls using the Planetary Health Diet Index for children and adolescents (PHDI-C). Higher PHDI-C scores (max score = 150 points) represent greater adherence. Adjusted linear regression models were fitted to explore associations between PHDI-C scores and child and maternal characteristics. Results: Children obtained low total PHDI-C scores (median 50.0 [IQR 39.5–59.8] points). This resulted from low consumption of nuts & peanuts, legumes, vegetables, whole cereals, and vegetable oils; a lack of balance between dark green and red & orange vegetables, inadequate consumption of tubers & potatoes and eggs & white meats, and excess consumption of dairy products, palm oil, red meats, and added sugars. Mean PHDI-C total score was significantly higher (50.6 [95%CI 49.6, 51.7] vs 47.3 [95%CI 45.0, 49.5]) among children whose mothers were ≥ 25 years compared to those with younger mothers. Positive associations were observed between scores for fruits and maternal education, vegetables and maternal age, added sugars and child weight status, while negative associations were observed between fruits and child age, and vegetable oils and maternal education. Scores for dairy products PHDI-C component were lower among girls. Conclusion: Adherence to sustainable healthy diets was low among this sample of Chilean children and was significantly associated with maternal age, being lower among children whose mothers were younger. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circumscription of the large genus Pultenaea Sm. has been contentious since shortly after description. We draw on recently generated phylogenomic data to provide a fully resolved phylogeny of Pultenaea and related genera based on near-complete species level sampling for the genus. Phylogenomic data divide Pultenaea sens. lat. into five independent lineages, corresponding to previously identified clades, that we recognise as distinct genera. Pultenaea sens. str. contains most of the currently recognised species and as circumscribed here, all of the species are endemic to eastern Australia except for P. tenuifolia R.Br. & Sims that extends across the Nullarbor into Western Australia. The genus Euchilus R.Br. is reinstated for eight species, all endemic to south-west Western Australia except for E. elachistus (F.Muell.) R.L.Barrett & Orthia that also occurs in South Australia. Three new genera are described, with all of the constituent species endemic to south-west Western Australia: Grievea R.L.Barrett, Clugston & Orthia, with two species, Jennata R.L.Barrett, Clugston & Orthia, with nine species and Loricobbia R.L.Barrett, Clugston & Orthia with six species. Pultenaea adunca Turcz. remains unplaced but we exclude this species from our concept of Pultenaea. Twenty-one new combinations are made: Euchilus aridus (E.Pritz.) R.L.Barrett & Orthia, E. calycinus subsp. proxenus (Orthia & Chappill) Orthia & R.L.Barrett, E. daena (Orthia & Chappill) Orthia & R.L.Barrett, E. elachistus (F.Muell.) R.L.Barrett & Orthia, Grievea brachytropis (Benth. ex Lindl.) R.L.Barrett & Orthia, G. craigiana (C.F.Wilkins, Orthia & Crisp) Orthia & R.L.Barrett, Jennata brachyphylla (Turcz.) R.L.Barrett & Clugston, J. empetrifolia (Meisn.) R.L.Barrett & Clugston, J. ericifolia (Benth.) R.L.Barrett & Clugston, J. indira (Orthia & Crisp) Orthia & R.L.Barrett, J. indira subsp. monstrosita (Orthia) Orthia & R.L.Barrett, J. indira subsp. pudoides (Orthia) Orthia & R.L.Barrett, J. radiata (H.B.Will.) R.L.Barrett & Clugston, J. strobilifera (Meisn.) R.L.Barrett & Clugston, J. verruculosa (Turcz.) R.L.Barrett & Clugston, Loricobbia aspalathoides (Meisn.) R.L.Barrett & T.D.Macfarl., L. ochreata (Meisn.) R.L.Barrett & T.D.Macfarl., L. pauciflora (M.B.Scott) R.L.Barrett & T.D.Macfarl., L. pinifolia (Meisn.) R.L.Barrett & T.D.Macfarl., L. reticulata (Sm.) R.L.Barrett & T.D.Macfarl. and L. skinneri (F.Muell.) R.L.Barrett & T.D.Macfarl. The bush-pea genus (Pultenaea) is one of the larger legume genera in Australia but has been difficult to define. We present a new classification of the group, recognising five genera instead of one using a large DNA based analysis of relationships. Three genera are newly described and one genus is reinstated, and these are almost entirely restricted to south-west Western Australia, with true Pultenaea being mostly restricted to eastern Australia. (Photograph by Russell Barrett.) This article belongs to the collection Genomics for Australian Plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of Pseudosperma is described based on collections recently made in Benin in West Africa. Pseudosperma brunneopilosum sp. nov. occurs in forests dominated by ectomycorrhizal Fabaceae Isoberlinia and Phyllanthaceae Uapaca trees. Phylogenetic analysis of combined ITS‐LSU‐RPB2‐TEF1 gene regions shows that P. brunneopilosum is unrelated and distinct from several recently described species of Pseudosperma also from West Africa. Complete descriptions and illustrations, including photographs and line drawings are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several recent regional studies have cast doubt on the widespread assumption that nitrogen‐fixing plants (N‐fixers) act as facilitators of neighbouring plant communities.We conducted a meta‐analysis to synthesize the effects of N‐fixers on plant communities and to understand how ecological context moderates these effects. We analysed studies that assessed paired effects of N‐fixers and non‐fixers on soil N, neighbouring‐plant (non‐fixer) biomass and plant community diversity; ecological moderators included climate, soil texture and N‐fixer growth form and invasive status.N‐fixers led to higher soil N and neighbouring‐plant biomass, but lower community diversity compared to non‐fixers. The effect of N‐fixers on neighbouring‐plant biomass was strongly mediated by soil texture; N‐fixer invasive status and growth form were also significant mediators of the facilitative effects of N‐fixers.Synthesis: N‐fixer effects lie on a continuum between facilitation and suppression that is moderated by intrinsic and extrinsic processes, and this analysis provides insight into how these factors moderate the effects of N‐fixers. Overall, N‐fixers facilitate neighbour biomass but suppress diversity, though high variation in these effects can be explained in part by ecological context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adzuki bean (Vigna angularis) is a significant dietary legume crop that is prevalent in East Asia. It also holds traditional medicinal importance in China. In this study, we report a high-quality, chromosome-level genome assembly of adzuki bean obtained by employing Illumina short-read sequencing, PacBio long-read sequencing, and Hi-C technology. The assembly spans 447.8 Mb, encompassing 96.32% of the estimated genome, with contig and scaffold N50 values of 16.5 and 41.0 Mb, respectively. More than 98.2% of the 1,614 BUSCO genes were fully identified, and 25,939 genes were annotated, with 98.23% of them being functionally identifiable. Vigna angularis was estimated to diverge successively from Vigna unguiculata and Vigna radiata about 15.3 and 8.7 million years ago (Ma), respectively. This chromosome-level reference genome of Vigna angularis provides a robust foundation for exploring the functional genomics and genome evolution of adzuki bean, thereby facilitating advancements in molecular breeding of adzuki bean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Legumes are essential plants in dryland ecosystems worldwide because they increase nitrogen availability, so their understanding is vital for improving knowledge and modelling in the face of climate change.This work studies the differences in resource use efficiency and their relationship with photosynthetic, photochemical, bioelemental, and stoichiometric traits of coexistent legumes and non‐legumes in a Sonoran Desert ecosystem.We found that legumes had higher photosynthetic rates, intrinsic and seasonal water use efficiency (WUE), phosphorus use efficiency (PPUE), and higher light utilisation mediated by chlorophyll content and active reaction centers, which may increase their photoprotection. Legumes can increase their WUE and PPUE with no changes in nitrogen use efficiency (PNUE). Consequently, observed trait relationships between studied traits in these legumes have significant differences with the non‐legume species in the study.Stoichiometry is helpful, in some cases, as an indicator of nutrient use efficiency and enables functional group differentiation.Our results strongly relate legumes' higher resource use efficiency with their success in dryland ecosystems. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Fermentation is an age‐long food processing tool used to preserve and develop functional foods and beverages. Fruits in particular have a very short shelf life due to their high water activity, favourable to microbial decomposition and spoilage, while legumes are protein‐rich crops that require improved protein digestibility. These are some standout reasons for applying this tool to develop fermented fruit‐ and legume‐based products. From multifarious fruit‐based beers, non‐alcoholic beverages and alcoholic drinks to legume‐based condiments and meals, fermentation has been used over time in Africa to enhance the food security, safety, nutrition, healthfulness and livelihoods of the people. As the nutrition and economic prospects of African fermented fruit‐ and legume‐based products are huge not only to the African continent but globally (as African diasporans and their interracial friends, spouses and relatives are notably consuming them), they are fraught with opportunities and challenges. This review describes the production factors (including raw material selection, processing techniques, environmental conditions and the role of microorganisms) and health benefits of these African fermented products. Safety concerns, fermentation challenges and other considerations are also discussed. Further studies targeting fermentation and production of novel, healthy and safer fruit‐ and legume‐based African food products are warranted due to their potential positive contribution to African and global hunger and malnutrition issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The rat's model evaluated the function of sprouted beans enriched with probiotic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 299v in alleviating dyslipidaemia, inflammation and disturbed redox homeostasis caused by a high‐lard diet. Sprouted beans improved the total antioxidant capacity of serum and liver, regardless of whether the feeds had a higher content of low‐molecular antioxidants or were additionally enriched with probiotics. The reduction of inflammation (lowered level of C‐reactive protein) and restoration of triglycerides and total cholesterol to the levels recorded in the control group (AIN‐93M) were especially observed in the group supplemented with the control adzuki bean. Introducing sprouted legumes (both the control and probiotic‐rich) improved microbiota activity affected by a high‐lard diet. The highest, desirable reduction of urease (by 80%) and tryptophanase (by 78%) activity was found in the groups fed with probiotic‐rich adzuki and mung bean sprouts respectively. Sprouted beans improve the metabolism of individuals subjected to a diet with an increased fat‐to‐carbohydrate energy ratio, especially concerning oxidative stress injury and microbiota activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Fermentation may beneficially increase the bioaccessibility of minerals in legumes. In this study, the contents and in vitro bioaccessibilities of Ca, Mg, Fe and Zn were determined in lupin whole seed and dehulled seed during soaking, cooking and then fermentation with Bacillus subtilis into a natto analogue. For total mineral content, a significant loss (P < 0.05) of Mg was observed after cooking for both whole and dehulled seed. During pre‐processing, the Ca bioaccessibilities of whole and dehulled were highest (P < 0.05) in the soaked seed and for Mg was highest (P < 0.05) in the cooked samples. At all fermentation times, the bioaccessibility of all minerals was higher (P < 0.05) in the dehulled than the whole seed. Significant increases (P < 0.05) in bioaccessibility during fermentation were observed for Fe at 48 h and Zn 24 h in dehulled seed, providing the first evidence for the beneficial effect of lupin fermentation by B. subtilis in terms of Fe and Zn availability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unlocking the potential of legumes through short‐term germination offers an innovative approach to improving the functionality of the resultant flour. This review examines the multifaceted benefits of short‐term germinated legume flour, emphasizing the enzymatic activities that breakdown complex legume compounds into simpler forms and reduce anti‐nutritional factors. This process improves digestibility, nutrient bioavailability, and health‐promoting properties. Furthermore, short‐term germination enhances the techno‐functional properties of legume flours without compromising their quality, avoiding excessive starch and protein degradation associated with prolonged germination. This review also explores the applications of short‐term germinated legume flours in developing nutritious and healthy food products tailored to diverse dietary needs. Subsequent integration of these short‐term germinated flours into food products provides a route for the development of cost‐effective, nutritious, and sustainable options that can address malnutrition and enhance overall well‐being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chickpea is an important food legume that usually undergoes various processing treatments to enhance nutritional value and functional properties. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different cooking conditions on physicochemical, structural, and functional properties of chickpea, especially its protein macromolecules. Kabuli chickpea seeds were processed by water cooking at different temperatures (63, 79, 88, and 96°C), followed by evaluating flour solubility, water‐holding capacity (WHC), pasting property, as well as the total protein profile and fractionated protein distributions. Cooking treatments significantly decreased flour solubility (from 39.45 to 25.21 g/100 g flour) and pasting viscosity (peak and final viscosities, from 1081 to 300.5 cP and 1323 to 532 cP, respectively), while increasing WHC (from 0.862 to 1.144 g H2O/g flour) of chickpea flour (p < 0.05). These behaviors were enhanced by increasing cooking temperature. Meanwhile, cooking induced a significant change of chickpea proteins, modifying the albumin‐ and globulin‐like fractions of chickpea protein to display glutelin‐like behavior. The current study provides potential approaches for manipulating chickpea flour functionalities (e.g., solubility, viscosity, and WHC) to address the process and product challenges and favor product innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forage legumes face simultaneous abiotic and biotic stresses, causing substantial yield losses. This study explores the combined impacts of drought and Phoma medicaginis infection on the growth and photosynthetic activity of Medicago truncatula contrasting lines TN6.18 and F83005.5. The tolerant TN6.18 line exhibits superior tolerance to combined drought and P. medicaginis infection, manifesting in minimal leaf area reduction, the highest number of healthy leaves, increased carotenoids content, a consistently high and stable photosynthesis rate, and enhanced performance of photosystems PSI and PSII. On the contrary, the sensitive F83005.5 line shows pronounced leaf chlorosis, particularly under drought stress, and decreased pigment levels under the combination of drought and P. medicaginis infection stresses (combined stress). Moreover, the drought-stressed F83005.5, experiences reduced hydration and photosynthetic performance, linked to diminished gas exchange and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters. Chlorophyll fluorescence revealed more severe PSI impairment than PSII under combined stress. In conclusion, understanding the Pm8 infection-drought interaction enhances insights into M. truncatula resistance mechanisms to the combination of these stresses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris), also known as the common beans, are broadly cultivated in temperate and semitropical regions. P. vulgaris contain different varieties, such as kidney beans, black beans, navy beans, pinto beans, and Great Northern beans. This legume is an excellent source of nutrients, including protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemical compounds. The phytochemicals in beans comprise bioactive substances such as phenolic compounds, phytosterols, and oligosaccharides. These bioactive substances exhibit health and therapeutic benefits including antioxidant, cholesterol-lowering, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, and anti-inflammatory potential. However, there is another category of essential phytochemicals, the antinutrients (e.g. enzyme inhibitors, phytic acids/phytates, saponins, and lectins), that negatively influence nutrient digestion and absorption. This review aims to describe the nutritional and phytochemical compounds of beans as well as the impact of different processing methods on bean phytochemicals, including soaking, extrusion, germination, roasting, steaming, autoclaving, boiling, cooking, microwaving, high-pressure processing, ultrasound, and pulsed electric field. In addition, the differences regarding volatile compounds; the impacts of storage on phytochemicals in beans; their bioaccessibility and digestibility; and the potential health benefits of bean consumption are introduced and evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inclusion of legumes in cereal based cropping system restores soil fertility and improves carbon storage and soil quality. In this background a field experiment was conducted in a strip-split plot design using three legume species viz., green gram, groundnut and cluster bean as vertical strip, two residue management practices i.e. residue removal (-R) and residue retention (+R) as horizontal strip, and three nitrogen levels i.e. 100%, 75% and 50% recommended rate of nitrogen (N) application in intersectional sub plots with four replications during summer 2017 and 2018. The grain and stover yield of maize, N uptake and soil properties were monitored after each crop harvest; soil nitrogen balance and soil organic carbon were estimated. Under 100% N fertilization, cluster bean – maize cropping system with residue (+R) recorded 12.78 and 9.78% higher maize grain and stover yield, respectively than without residue (–R) treatment. Highest available N (189.9 kg ha−1) and available P (54.5 kg ha−1) were registered under cluster bean- maize cropping system. Legume residue incorporation resulted 9.65, 8.46, 7.09 and 8.86% higher (p = 0.05) WBC content, WBC stock, available N and P contents over residue removal scenario. Annually, 1.71% added carbon converted into soil organic carbon. Legume residue retention and 100% recommended rate of nitrogen application enhanced nitrogen balance. Soil N balance was highest under groundnut – maize system (165 kg ha−1). Overall, for better soil health and optimum crop production, cluster bean – maize cropping system with legume residue retention and 100% N fertilization may be promoted in semi-arid Western India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cover crop services depend on biomass production and species composition of the cover crop stand. In this study, we investigated the interactions in shoot biomass of dual cover crop mixtures and their competitiveness to suppress weeds before winter under different growing conditions. Methods: A field experiment was performed on sandy loam soil in Triesdorf, Germany, for two consecutive years. The cover crop species white mustard (Sinapis alba L.), oil radish (Raphanus sativus var. oleiformis L.), phacelia (Phacelia tanacetifolia J.), Egyptian clover (Trifolium alexandrinum L.), common vetch (Vicia sativa L.), field pea (Pisumsativum L.), and field bean (Vicia faba L.) were grown in pure stands or dual mixtures. Cover crops were sown in August, and shoot biomass was harvested at the end of the vegetation period. Cover crop shoot biomass was dried, and the share of each species and the sown test weed (Brassica napus L.) were determined. Results: The share of shoot biomass of a cover crop species in dual-species mixtures was closely related to its shoot biomass in its pure stand. In both years, mustard and phacelia showed similar interactions in shoot biomass production when growing with a second species. Regarding competitiveness against weeds, cruciferous species outperformed other cover crop species and could suppress weeds even if they were mixed with a less competitive partner. Weed suppression of mixtures with phacelia depended on the second component in the mixture and was more effective in a dry season. Legume species, especially Egyptian clover and common vetch could not suppress weeds in a pure stand. Discussion: Our results show that species with high weed suppression potential as single stands retain this ability in dual cover crop mixtures, regardless of the suppression potential of the second species that completes the mixture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Root exudates are known signaling agents that influence legume root nodulation, but the molecular mechanisms for nonflavonoid molecules remain largely unexplored. The number of soybean root nodules during the initial growth phase shows substantial discrepancies at distinct developmental junctures. Using a combination of metabolomics analyses on root exudates and nodulation experiments, we identify a pivotal role for certain root exudates during the rapid growth phase in promoting nodulation. Phenoxyacetic acid (POA) was found to activate the expression of GmGA2ox10 and thereby facilitate rhizobial infection and the formation of infection threads. Furthermore, POA exerts regulatory control on the miR172c-NNC1 module to foster nodule primordia development and consequently increase nodule numbers. These findings collectively highlight the important role of POA in enhancing nodulation during the accelerated growth phase of soybeans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The major drawback to the implementation of genomic selection in a breeding program lies in long-term decrease in additive genetic variance, which is a trade-off for rapid genetic improvement in short term. Balancing increase in genetic gain with retention of additive genetic variance necessitates careful optimization of this trade-off. In this study, we proposed an integrated index selection approach within the genomic inferred cross-selection (GCS) framework to maximize genetic gain across multiple traits. With this method, we identified optimal crosses that simultaneously maximize progeny performance and maintain genetic variance for multiple traits. Using a stochastic simulated recurrent breeding program over a 40-years period, we evaluated different GCS methods along with other factors, such as the number of parents, crosses, and progeny per cross, that influence genetic gain in a pulse crop breeding program. Across all breeding scenarios, the posterior mean variance consistently enhances genetic gain when compared to other methods, such as the usefulness criterion, optimal haploid value, mean genomic estimated breeding value, and mean index selection value of the superior parents. In addition, we provide a detailed strategy to optimize the number of parents, crosses, and progeny per cross that can potentially maximize short- and long-term genetic gain in a public breeding program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) is a cool season legume crop that plays vital roles in food and nutritional security, mostly in the least developed countries. Lentil is often cultivated in dry and semi-dry regions, where the primary abiotic factor is drought, which negatively impacts lentil growth and development, resulting in a reduction of yield. To withstand drought-induced multiple negative effects, lentil plants evolved a variety of adaptation strategies that can be classified within three broad categories of drought tolerance mechanisms (i.e., escape, avoidance, and tolerance). Lentil adapts to drought by the modulation of various traits in the root system, leaf architecture, canopy structure, branching, anatomical features, and flowering process. Furthermore, the activation of certain defensive biochemical pathways as well as the regulation of gene functions contributes to lentil drought tolerance. Plant breeders typically employ conventional and mutational breeding approaches to develop lentil varieties that can withstand drought effects; however, little progress has been made in developing drought-tolerant lentil varieties using genomics-assisted technologies. This review highlights the current understanding of morpho-physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms of lentil adaptation to drought stress. We also discuss the potential application of omics-assisted breeding approaches to develop lentil varieties with superior drought tolerance traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pulse beetle, Callosobruchus spp., poses a threat to legumes by consuming the protein content of the grain, resulting in potential losses in storage ranging from 12 to 30%. Molecular marker technology helps to mitigate the breeding constraint in the development of bruchid resistance in green gram breeding programmes. In the present study, validation of locus-specific STSbr1 and STSbr2 markers linked with bruchid resistance was done using fifteen genotypes viz., VBN (Gg) 2 (susceptible) and Vigna radiata var. sublobata/2 (resistant), F1 hybrid, two susceptible and ten resistant RILs derived from the above parents. The marker STS br1 behaved as a dominant marker and produced an approximate allele size of 225 bp in the resistant parent, F1 hybrid and resistant RILs and absent in susceptible parent and susceptible RILs, which showed cent per cent co-segregation with bruchid resistance locus. Hence, it is concluded that STS br1 is linked with bruchid-resistant genes. The marker STS br2 behaved as a co-dominant marker and produced an approximate allele size of 470 bp in all the 15 genotypes evaluated (monomorphic) and did not differentiate the resistant and susceptible genotypes. The marker STS br1 could be used in marker-assisted selection to develop bruchid-resistant varieties and to screen the germplasm to identify bruchid-resistant donors in green gram. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] is an annual plant of the legume family that is ancestral to the Glycine bean (Glycine soja Sieb. & Zucc.). Soybeans are a key component of "Japanese cuisine," which has been registered as a UNESCO Heritage of Intangible Differentiation and has become an essential part of the Japanese diet. Despite being an important crop in Japan's food culture, the self-sufficiency rate of Japan's domestically produced soybean crop has declined considerably to ~24 % for use in food products and ~6% for combined nonfood uses. Although domestic consumption of processed soybean products such as tofu has been increasing annually, imported soybeans have been used as raw materials. From the food security perspective, improving the self-sufficiency rate by promoting the development of soybean varieties that are internationally competitive and of superior quality is a prominent issue. Therefore, the Soybean Subcommittee of the 70th Anniversary Meeting of the Japanese Society for Food Science and Technology invited Dr. Yohei Nanjo of the Crops Research Division of the National Institute of Agrobiological Science in 2023 to give a presentation on the current state of soybean breeding and its future outlook. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new hederagenin-type triterpene saponin was found in the aqueous-ethanolic extract of the seeds of Cassia fistula L. The structure of this compound was established as 3-O-β-D-xylopyranosyl-(1→2)-β-D- xylopyranosylhederagenin 28-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→2)-β-D-glucopyranosyl ester (1), mainly by extensive 2D NMR analysis in combination with spectral data of known compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Oxytropis DC is a perennial plant of Fabaceae family, which is widely distributed in the northern temperate zone. It is known as "locoweed" because of its toxic component swainsonine. However, it is widely used in Tibetan medicine and Mongolian medicine, mainly for the treatment of heat-clearing and detoxifying, pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, hemostasis, and other diseases. To provide a basis for the further development and utilization of Oxytropis DC, the pieces of literature about the application, phytochemistry, pharmacological action, and toxicity of Oxytropis DC were reviewed and analyzed. Key findings: A total of 373 chemical constituents were found from Oxytropis DC, including flavonoids, alkaloids, steroids, terpenoids, and others. Pharmacological actions mainly include antitumor, antioxidation, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antibacterial, antifibrosis, and other pharmacological actions, among them, the antitumor effect is particularly prominent. Summary: At present, studies on its pharmacological effects are mainly concentrated on the extracts, some flavonoids, and alkaloids. In the follow-up studies, research on the pharmacological activities of the other chemical constituents in Oxytropis should be strengthened. It has the potential to pave the way for research and development of novel Oxytropis medicines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims - Following detailed phylogenetic and biogeographic studies of the tribe Psoraleeae, the genus Psoralea L. was shown to have been derived out of Otholobium C.H.Stirt. As Psoralea has nomenclatural priority, Otholobium has been subsumed into Psoralea, whereby two broad subgeneric groups are aligned with the previous descriptions of the separate genera, but some problems of placement of a few species remain unresolved. Work is ongoing to study and describe the nearly 20 undescribed species that will have to be considered before sectional groups can be established. In this paper we describe ten new species, including several putative taxa already recognized in regional floras, based on historic specimens and more recent field collections. Material and methods - Standard practices of herbarium and field taxonomy have been applied to study herbarium material available at B, BLFU, BM, BOL, BR, E, GRA, J, JRAU, K, KEI, L, LE, LINN, M, MO, NBG, NH, NU, NY, OXF, P, PRA, PRC, PRE, PRU, S, SAM, SCHG, SRGH, TCD, Z, ZT, and US. Additional material was provided from fieldwork by the authors and collaborators. Key results - Ten new species of Psoralea from southern Africa are described: Psoralea crista C.H.Stirt. & Muasya, P. fulva C.H.Stirt. & Muasya, P. luteovirens C.H.Stirt. & Muasya, P. nubicola C.H.Stirt. & Muasya, P. oreopola C.H.Stirt., P. pallescens C.H.Stirt. & Muasya, P. papillosa C.H.Stirt. & Muasya, P. prompta C.H.Stirt. & Muasya, P. schutteae C.H.Stirt. & Muasya, and P. vlokii C.H.Stirt. & Muasya. Conclusion - The newly described species, all restricted to South Africa, increases the number of Psoralea species to 129. These species arise from expanded fieldwork into previously under-collected areas, as well as from better refinement in species delimitations in the leafless 'aphylla' and pinnately-leaved species complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Groundnut or peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is known as the "King of Oilseeds" which belongs to family Fabaceae (Leguminosae). It is highly susceptible to weed infestation because of its slow initial growth up to 40 DAS and small foliage cover. However, study on use of mechanical weed control methods with different fertility regimes for improving the productivity of groundnut was limited. Therefore, the objective of this study was to find a suitable method for optimising the productivity of groundnut. Methods: A field experiment was conducted at Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar for two consecutive years of 2020 and 2021. The field experiment comprised 16 treatment combinations of four weed management practices and four fertility levels. The weed management practice included W1- Pre-emergence (PE) application of pendimethalin @ 0.75 kg ha-1, W2- Pre-emergence (PE) application of pretilachlor @ 0.5 kg ha-1, W3- Manual weeding (20 and 40 DAS), W4-Twin wheel hoe at 20 DAS followed by (fb) hand weeding at 40 DAS and four fertility levels includes T1-100% RDF (20:40:40) (N: P205: K2O kg ha-1), T2- 75% RDF + 5 tonnes FYM ha-1, T3- 50% RDF + 10 tonnes FYM ha-1, T4- without fertilizer + without FYM. Result: Amongst the weed management practices, use of twin wheel hoe at 20 DAS followed by hand weeding at 40 DAS significantly reduced the weed density, weed dry weight, weed index and recorded the highest weed control efficiency (69.8%). Highest weed index (32.9) was recorded with the application of pretilachlor @ 0.5 kg ha-1 (PE), which was followed by weed index of (28.5) with application of pendimethalin @ 0.75 kg ha-1 (PE). The fertilizer management practice with application of 50% RDF + 10 tonnes FYM ha-1 gave the highest yield and considerably reduced the total weed density, weed dry weight and recorded the maximum weed control efficiency (71.8% at harvest). We suggest that weed management with twin wheel hoe at 20 DAS followed by hand weeding at 40 DAS along with application of 50% RDF + 10 tonnes FYM ha-1 as the most effective strategy for controlling the weed menace in groundnut with the highest weed control efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Incidence of fall armyworm in maize has been reported at a severe level since 2018 resulting in low yield and in extreme cases complete failure of the crop. In view of undesirable effects of unilateral reliance on chemicals, greener avenues like intercropping needs to be explored, which promise to subside pests, as well as, provide higher income to cultivators. Methods: Field experiment was conducted during 2019-2021, consecutively for three years to investigate the consequences of intercropping with legumes viz., red gram (Cajanus cajan L.), black gram (Vigna mungo L.), green gram (Vigna radiata L. ), cowpea (Vigna unguiuculata L.), groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) and soybean (Glycine max L.) on incidence of fall armyworm in maize and the cost economics involved. Result: Among the different intercrops studied, maize+cowpea recorded significantly lowest mean per cent infested plants (45.0 per cent) at 75 days after sowing which was statistically on par with maize+green gram (45.5 per cent). The next effective intercropping system was maize+black gram (55.7 per cent) followed by maize+red gram (58.2 per cent). Maize as a sole crop recorded the highest mean per cent infested plants (76.3 per cent) at 75 days after sowing. The system equivalent yield (SEY) of the intercropping systems under study ascertained that the maize+cowpea achieved highest SEY of 5230 kg per ha followed by maize+green gram (5160 kg per ha) followed by maize+black gram (4900 kg per ha). Upon comparison of the benefit cost ratio (BC ratio), the maize+cowpea proved to be highly profitable with BC ratio of 4.11 followed by maize+green gram (4.05) followed by maize+black gram (3.85), whereas, sole maize recorded minimum BC ratio of 2.87. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pulse crops are commonly known as "rich man's vegetable". Blackgram is the most important pulse crops of Odisha after greengram. Poor productivity of blackgram in Odisha is due to soil related constraints such as organic matter and nutrient availability. Use of unbalanced and inadequate fertilizers accompanied by restricted use organic manures resulted decline in crop yield. Promising results of balanced fertilization was documented in various pulse crop but limited research was under taken in blackgram in East and South Eastern coastal plain zone of Odisha. Therefore, current experiment focused on improving productivity of blackgram with different source of nutrient. Methods: A field experiment was conducted at Institute of Agricultural Sciences of Siksha "O" Anusandhan (Deemed University), Bhubaneswar, during summer season of 2020 and 2021 to study the Influence of integrated nutrient management on productivity, nutrient uptake and soil fertility of summer blackgram (Vigna mungo L.). Blackgram variety 'LBG 787 (Tulsi)' was sown at a spacing of 25 x 10 cm under randomized block design (RBD) with 12 treatment combinations of FYM, inorganic and foliar fertilizer. Result: Application of 100% RDF + FYM + nutrient priming + 2% DAP spray twice at 30 and 45 DAS led to maximum pods per plant (18.5), pod length (4.5 cm), seeds per pod (7.0), test weight (52.0 g), seed yield (843 kg/ha), stover yield (1214 kg/ha) and harvest index (41.0%). Besides, it also recorded highest gross return (Rs 54,840/ha), net return (Rs 27,050/ha), B:C ratio (2.1), production efficiency (10.83 kg/ha/day), economic efficiency (360.67 Rs/ha/day) and was at par with 75% RDF + FYM + nutrient priming + 2% DAP spray. The later recorded 49.1% higher yield and 152.4% higher net return/ha, respectively than that of 100% RDF alone in East and South Eastern coastal plain zone of Odisha. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Blackgrm is one of the most important pulse crops majorly cultivated in rainfed conditions of India. Soil moisture deficit, low and erratic rainfall, use of poor quality seeds, poor crop stand and improper crop management resulting in lower productivity in rainfed ecosystem. Reduced crop stand alone leads to 30% deficit in production. Availability of technology to overcome drought stress is one of the way to expand blackgram cultivation in dry tracks. Hydrophilic polymers may have great potential in restoration and reclamation, when used the polymers correctly and an ideal situations will have atleast 95% of their stores water available for plant absorption. There are N number of inorganic polymers available in the market, that can be applied in the form of soil application. Studies on Hydrophilic bio polymer seed coating to mitigate water stress is very megar or nil. Hence, the present study was formulated in blackgram as hydrophilic bio polymer seed coating on seed germination and field emergence. Methods: Seed coating experiment consists of seven hydrophilic biopolymers (Ethyl cellulose, Methyl cellulose, Carboxyl methyl cellulose, Agar, Gum Arabic, Xanthangum and Carrageenan); two coating methods (dry and dry powder concoction). The germination test conducted in sand media with 60% Water Holding Capacity of sand and PEG induced water stress and evaluated for seed quality parameters against uncoated seeds. Field experiments conducted with water stress periods of 10 days, 20 days and 25 days after life irrigation and observed for biometric and yield parameters. Result: Results revealed that blackgram seeds coated with bio polymerconcoctionof xanthan gum : carrageenan : Agar agar (4:1:1) @ 20 g/kg performed better in terms ofall seed quality parameters and withstand water stress upto 20 days after life irrigation with the yield increase of 53% over stressed control (Skipping irrigation for 20 days after life irrigation) and can be recommended as a pre sowing treatment for drought mitigation in blackgram. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Salinity challenges legume production worldwide. To maintain the overall legume production, seed halopriming has been adopted as a cost-effective, farmer friendly technique, minimizing noxious effects of NaCl on plant growth. Methods: Nonprimed and haloprimed seeds were grown under different NaCl concentrations and harvested after 21 days. NaClinduced alterations on physio-biochemical attributes and DNA damage were studied. Result: NaCl exposure in nonprimed seedlings exhibited growth inhibition, depletion in water contents, increased accumulation of H2O2, MDA and proline causing DNA damage. Conversely, in primed seedlings, these toxic effects were altered and extent of DNA damage reduced. Decreased catalase activity in nonprimed seedlings failed to detoxify the ROS generated under salinity inducing DNA damage whereas in NaCl-treated haloprimed seedlings, improved catalase activity helped to overcome such adversities favouring improved growth of all tested legume varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Haricot bean is the most important food legumes in Ethiopia. However, low productivity is the major problem in South Gondar zone, which is mainly associated with lack of recently released high yielder varieties in the areas. The aim of this study was an attempt to identify suitable high yielder haricot bean varieties for the study areas and similar agro ecologies. Methods: This study was conducted during the rainfed season of 2021 and 2022 at Ebinat and Tach Gayint districts in South Gondar zone, Ethiopia. Four haricot bean varieties with one local check were used as a treatment and laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications. Result: Analysis of variance showed a highly significant variability among the varieties for days to maturity, pod length, pods per plant, seeds per pod, grain yield and 100 grain weight. All these traits showed a highly significant difference by location variations. Variety by location interaction also showed a significant variation on days to maturity, pods per plant,100 grain weight and grain yield. SER119 was found the highest yielder variety with mean yield of 2861.00, 2887.50 and 2231.59kg ha-1 at Burkoch, Fenta and Balarb locations, respectively. This variety has a respective yield advantage of 59.41%, 47.01% and 38.70% over the local check. Whereas, Awash mitin showed a highest yield at Daka (2285.70 kg/ha) and Anseta (1995.50 kg ha-1) locations with respective yield advantage of 33.96% and 39.95% as compared to the check cultivar. Therefore, SER119 and Awash mitin varieties could be recommended for Ebinat and Tach Gayint districts and similar agro-ecologies to each location. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a continued search for legumes to grow with forage sorghum (FS) [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] in semi-arid environments, studies in 2019 and 2022 at New Mexico State University Rex E. Kirksey Agricultural Science Center at Tucumcari, NM USA, evaluated FS mixed with cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.], lablab (Lablab purpureus L.), both previously evaluated, and a native legume, big-pod sesbania (Sesbania macrocarpa), for yield and nutritive value in four randomized complete blocks each year. At harvest legume proportions of approximately 15% of the dry matter yield, there were no differences in the yield (mean = 15.97 Mg ha−1, p > 0.40) or land equivalency ratio between sole FS and any mixture or among mixtures; however, the crude protein of FS+Lablab was greater than sole FS, with FS+Cowpea and FS+Sesbania intermediate (67, 77, 87, and 79 g kg−1 for sole FS, FS+Cowpea, FS+Lablab, and FS+Sesbania, respectively; 5% LSD = 14). The neutral detergent fiber digestibility of FS+Sesbania was less than all other treatments (p = 0.0266). Although the sesbania did not improve forage yield or nutritive value when grown with FS and harvested near sesbania maturity, perhaps growing with a shorter season grass and harvesting earlier may show benefit, as sesbania's nutritive value is known to be greater at earlier stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global challenge of crop loss due to salt stress became increasingly significant, especially in the context of meeting the rising demands of a growing world population. This review focuses on the impact of salt stress on leguminous plants throughout their entire growth stages. Additionally, it provides a comprehensive overview of the molecular strategies employed to enhance the performance of legumes in saline environments. In addressing this issue, the review critically assesses recent advancements in bolstering legume salt stress tolerance through genetic engineering. This approach is acknowledged for its efficiency compared to traditional breeding methods, facilitating the transfer of desired genes without introducing extraneous genetic material from the donor organism. The review also examines the critical role of preventing ionic toxicity in transgenic leguminous plants by expressing foreign Na+/H+ antiporter genes and transcription factors. Furthermore, the review emphasizes the positive outcomes observed when introducing or overexpressing genes related to compatible solutes in transgenic legumes. These genetic modifications have proven effective in enhancing the tolerance of legumes to salinity-induced osmotic stress. Another aspect explored in the review is the improving of salt stress-induced oxidative stress management in various transgenic legume species. This is achieved through the expression of both enzymatic and non-enzymatic genes. Finally, the review explores the manipulation of candidate genes to improve nodule performance under salt stress. By identifying and modifying specific genes, researchers can pave the way for leguminous plants to thrive in salt-affected environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Senegalia was recently described as non-monophyletic; however, its sections exhibit robust monophyletic support, suggesting a potential reclassification into separate genera—Senegalia sect. Monocanthea p.p. is the largest section. It contains 164 species of pantropical distribution and includes all of the current 99 neotropical species of Senegalia; however, no morphological characteristics are available to differentiate this section. To characterize this section, we examined floral developmental traits in four species of Senegalia sect. Monocanthea p.p. These traits were previously considered as potentially distinguishing features within Acacia s.l. and include the onset patterns of the androecium, the timing of calyx union, the origin of the staminal disc, and the presence of stomata on the petals. Furthermore, we analyzed previously unexplored traits, such as corolla union types, inflorescence development, and micromorphological features related to the indumentum, as well as the presence and location of stomata. The characteristics proposed as potential synapomorphies of the group include the postgenital fusion of the corolla and the presence of a staminal disc formed at the base of the filaments. The other analyzed floral characteristics were not informative for the characterization of the group. Future studies of floral ontogeny will help to establish more precise patterns, mainly whether corolla union and staminal tube formation occur similarly in African and Asian sections of Senegalia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of cover crops (CCs) based on tropical legumes, including Crotalaria ochroleuca, Crotalaria juncea, Crotalaria spectabilis, and Cajanus cajan, represents a pivotal aspect of agricultural rotations. These crops facilitate the incorporation of nitrogen through biological nitrogen fixation (BNF), thereby reducing the necessity for synthetic nitrogen fertilizers. Nevertheless, the capacity for the BNF of these species in Uruguay is relatively modest. To address this limitation, an approach is proposed that involves the immobilization of nitrogen in the soil using a highly energetic material, such as sucrose. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of incorporating sucrose into typical Uruguayan soil on aboveground dry matter production, nitrogen accumulation, and nitrogen fixation by legumes utilized as CCs. The experiments involved the planting of C. ochroleuca, C. juncea, C. spectabilis, and C. cajan in pots containing either soil alone or soil mixed with sucrose and the subsequent maintenance of these in a plant growth chamber for a period of 90 days. The addition of sucrose had a positive impact, with nearly double the aboveground dry matter production and nitrogen content observed. The percentage of nitrogen derived from the atmosphere (%Ndfa) increased significantly in all species, rising from an average of 83% to 96% in the sucrose-amended soil compared to the control. In the case of C. juncea, there was a notable threefold increase in aboveground dry matter and nitrogen accumulation across different treatments, accompanied by a 26% rise in %Ndfa and a fourfold increase in nitrogen fixation amounts. These findings indicate that C. juncea has the potential to significantly enhance performance and ecosystem services in typical Uruguayan soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Papilionoideae is the most species-rich subfamily of the third largest angiosperm family Fabaceae. One constituent large group, the inverted-repeat-lacking clade (IRLC), is well-known for the broad loss of one IR copy. Accumulating observations of massive plastomic disparities have made IRLC a well-suited model for exploring plastome evolution. However, there is still a large amount left to explore. The present study focused on the plastid tRNA (pttRNA) evolution within Papilionoideae, employing the currently densest sampling strategies for both the IRLC (156) and non-IRLC (109) lineages. Strikingly, our results revealed abundant inter-lineage variabilities in both tRNA sequences and structures, including a 3 nt difference in the average size of trnS-UGA, the consensus sequence disparities across 29 tRNAs, the distinct 3 nt indels in trnA-UGC, and an impressive 248 nt intron loss of IRLC trnI-GAU (potential markers). Additionally, there was unequal stability of the atypical secondary structures in trnS-GGA and trnS-UGA, as well as significantly diverse compositions of substitution events in all compared tRNAs (p < 0.05). Ultimately, these findings not only demonstrate the significant differences and unique markers of IRLC pttRNAs compared to other non-IRLC Papilionoideae, but also draw an important conclusion that the large losses of one IR potentially promote highly diverse evolutionary patterns of IRLC, which could partly compensate for the potential IR-lacking impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the impact of line spacing (X: 24 m, Y: 9 m, Z: 6.5 m) and orientation to tree lines on the growth, yield, and quality of red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) in a temperate, irrigated agroforestry system (2 ha) in Szarvas, Hungary. Three sampling locations were distinguished between the east and west oriented tree lines: the north (N) side, middle (M) strip, and south (S) side of the tree lines. The highest red clovers were observed in the 6.5 m spacing (mean height 69.3 ± 7.2 cm), although yields were similar across 24 m, 9 m, and 6.5 m spacings (2.9 t ha−1, 2.3 t ha−1, and 2.7 t ha−1 dry matter, respectively). Orientation significantly influenced all forage quality parameters, with the north side showing earlier developmental stages and higher proportions of immature flowers (41–59%). Managing the spatial arrangement of red clover in agroforestry systems can help optimize forage quality by mitigating variations in plant maturity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity is an abiotic stress restricting agricultural crop production globally, in which salts inhibit plants' ability to absorb water and nutrients. Pinto beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) are very important in human nutrition and are sensitive to salinity. The objective of this study was to assess the salinity tolerance of six pinto bean varieties by evaluating the effect of different salt types on germination and growth. In the germination experiment, varieties were arranged in a randomized complete block design with five replications and three saline solutions (NaCl, CaCl2, MgSO4·7H2O) at 0, 0.05 M, 0.1 M, and 0.15 M concentrations each. For the greenhouse experiment, saline solutions with the same EC (5 dS m−1), control (distilled water), and six pinto bean varieties were organized in a Complete Random Design with 10 replicates. The results demonstrated that germination percentage, speed of germination, and hypocotyl length decreased as salt concentrations increased. Othello's vegetative and reproductive parameters were significantly higher compared to the other varieties under saline conditions; its early maturity may have enabled it to perform better under salt stress. In addition to soil and water management, selecting salt-tolerant crops and varieties is essential to maintaining agricultural sustainability in regions undergoing salinization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cognitive and mood status influence both personal and social daily activities, with great impact on life quality, particularly among the elderly population. Aim: This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the psycho-affective status concerning eating habits within an elderly population of the Chania area in Crete, Greece. Methods: Cognitive status was assessed in 101 elderly subjects through the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and mood was evaluated using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Nutritional status was assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Results: Multivariable statistical analysis, after adjustment for age, marital status, education, and comorbidity, highlighted among males a positive association of the MMSE score with vegetable consumption (RR 1.18; 95%CI 1.03‒1.34) and a negative association with potato consumption (RR 0.83; 95%CI 0.72‒0.95). Conversely, among females, no statistically significant association was observed for any food. Further, among males, a protective effect on affective status was identified for chicken meat (RR 0.45; 95%CI 0.27‒0.77), fish (RR 0.41; 95%CI 0.21‒0.82), fruit (RR 0.70; 95%CI 0.52‒0.94), cereals (RR 0.67; 95%CI 0.53‒0.87), and cheese (RR 0.78; 95%CI 0.63‒0.97) consumption. Among females, the adjusted model showed a significant detrimental effect of vegetable consumption (RR 1.33; 95%CI 1.02‒1.73). Conclusion: A predominantly vegetable-based diet—with the notable exception of fruits and legumes—was associated with better cognitive status in males, albeit not in females. A higher intake of fruit, as well as fish, chicken meat, and cheese among males was associated with a better affective status, indicating that adequate protein supply may play a role in maintaining emotional balance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The American College of Lifestyle Medicine recommends eating a predominantly plant-based diet with a variety of minimally processed vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds. At any level, adoption of a plant-based diet can improve one's health through a variety of mechanisms. Increasing intake of plant-based foods often results in increases in fiber intake, decreases in saturated fat intake, and increased intake of essential vitamins and minerals, among other healthful benefits. Despite such potential benefits, many individuals are reluctant or resistant to change their usual dietary behaviors or unable to sustain diet changes over time. This is largely because an individual's decision to adopt a plant-based diet is influenced by a diverse array of motivating factors, priorities, and/or misconceptions about nutrient adequacy of plant-based diets. Here, we discuss key points from a session at the American College of Lifestyle Medicine's annual conference LM2023. Specifically, we review common preconceptions about plant-based diets, provide guidance on removing the barriers to adopting and adhering to plant-based diets, and highlight key literature findings supporting the health benefits of plant-based diets. Last, we discuss how plant-based diets are increasingly being implemented within health care and clinical practice to support Food is/as Medicine approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]