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Introduction Occurrence of drought and reduction of rainfall in the future will limit the cultivation of irrigated crops. Thus, it is probable that a part of the present irrigated lands and orchards of Iran may be unavailable for the cultivation of irrigated crops, but it is possible to cultivate rainfed crops in these lands. However, the available potential for cultivation of rainfed crops with respect to the soil type, climate and other factors is not known. Limited water resources, on the one hand, and the growing population along with increasing the need to produce food, on the other, make it necessary to have a comprehensive, practical and accurate program. Therefore, research on this issue is essential. In this study, production potential of rainfed wheat (Triticum aestivum), barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.), lentil (Lens culinaris Medik) and canola (Brassica napus) in irrigated lands (fields and orchards) was modeled.Materials and Methods Weather stations (position and distribution), long-term weather data (15 to 30 years), HC27 soil map, crop management data plant parameters were used to determine the yield in this study using SSM-iCrop2 model. In each zone, the yield was determined and compared with the actual data. In other words, the model output were compared with the actual current rainfed yields of each province and then it was determined that whether the model precision was sufficient for this study. Other calculations (determining the average yield of provinces) and generation of maps were done using ArcGIS V.10.2. The yield obtained by farmers in these lands was considered as 50 and 70 percent of yield potential. Also, the yields were categorized into four classes of excellent, good, medium and non-suitable. This classification is based on economic- agronomic profit of crop harvest.Results and Discussion The results of this study showed that the conditions of rainfed production in each province of the country is suitable/appropriate for some crops and unsuitable/inappropriate for some other. In case the yield of farmers reached 70 percent of yield potential by optimum management, all provinces will be classified into the upper average group (3, 18 and 10 provinces in excellent, good and medium groups) for wheat. For barley 30 (3, 10 and 17 provinces in excellent, good and medium groups), for chickpea 30 (3, 6 and 21 provinces in excellent, good and medium groups), for lentil 31 (13 and 18 and 10 provinces in good and medium groups) and for canola 30 (4, 5 and 21 provinces in excellent, good and medium groups) provinces will be placed in the upper average group. Based on 70 percent of yield potential of canola, barley and chickpea, only on province is placed in non-suitable group. On the other hand, in case the yield of farmers reaches 50 percent of yield potential due to improper management, for wheat 30 (2, 2 and 26 provinces in excellent, good and medium groups), for barley 28 (4 and 24 provinces in good and medium groups), for chickpea 18 (4 and 14 provinces in good and medium groups), for lentil 28 (3 and 10 provinces in good and medium groups) and for canola 25 (5 and 20 provinces in good and medium groups) will be classified into the upper average group. Based on 50 percent of yield potential of rainfed wheat, barley, canola, chickpea and lentil, 1, 3, 6, 13 and 3 provinces were placed in non-suitable group, respectively.Conclusion According to the results of this study, a major part of the provinces will be placed in medium and non-suitable groups in case of improper management, and agricultural productions will not satisfy the needs of the country. Therefore, it is necessary to pay a special attention to agronomic management of rainfed crops, as the agricultural production of the country will not be acceptable unless 70 percent of yield potential is achieved.

Objectives: This study aimed to systematically review the evidence for associations between consumption of legumes and cardiovascular disease (CVD), type 2 diabetes (T2D) and their risk factors among healthy adults. Methods: We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Scopus up to 16 May 2022 for ≥4 weeks long randomized (RCT) and non-randomized controlled trials and prospective cohort studies with follow-up ≥12 months, assessing legume intake (beans/lentils/peas/soybeans, excluding peanuts and legume-products/protein/powder/flour) as the intervention or exposure. Outcomes were CVD, coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke, T2D and in intervention trials only: changes in blood lipids, glycemic markers, and blood pressure. Risk of bias (RoB) was evaluated with Cochrane’s RoB2, ROBINS-I, and US Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s RoB-NObS. Effect sizes were pooled using random-effects meta-analyses and expressed as relative risk or weighed mean differences with 95% confidence intervals, heterogeneity quantified as I2. The evidence was appraised according to World Cancer Research Fund’s criteria. Results: Of the 181 full-text articles assessed for eligibility, 47 were included: 31 cohort studies (2,081,432 participants with generally low legume consumption), 14 crossover RCTs (448 participants), one parallel RCT and one non-randomized trial. Meta-analyses of cohort studies were suggestive of null associations for CVD, CHD, stroke and T2D. Meta-analyses of RCTs suggested a protective effect on total cholesterol (mean difference −0.22 mmol/L), low density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol (−0.19 mmol/L), fasting glucose (−0.19 mmol/L), and HOMA-IR (−0.30). Heterogeneity was high (I2 = 52% for LDL-cholesterol, >75% for others). The overall evidence for associations between consumption of legumes and risk of CVD and T2D was considered limited – no conclusion. Conclusion: Legume consumption was not found to influence risk of CVD and T2D in healthy adult populations with generally low legume consumption. However, protective effects on risk factors, seen in RCTs, lend some support for recommending legume consumption as part of diverse and healthy dietary patterns for prevention of CVD and T2D.

Plant-based diets represent a valid strategy to improve human health and increase food sustainability. The availability of legume-based products, a good source of proteins and fibers, could help consumers to promote healthy dietary patterns. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of different legume-based pastas on energy intake and appetite in healthy volunteers. Four ad libitum (protocol 1) and iso-caloric pre-load meals (protocol 2) were tested using a randomized repeated measure design. The test meals consisted of lentils pasta (LP), chickpeas pasta (CP); durum wheat pasta (DWP) and gluten free pasta (GFP), served with tomato sauce. Protocol 1: the ad libitum lunch meal was consumed then EI registered. Protocol 2: subjective appetite was assessed by visual analogue scale before and after the pre-load meal for 2 h until an ad libitum buffet was served to assess EI. Twenty (age: 39.2 ± 8.41 years; BMI: 23.4 ± 3.4 kg/m2) and 40 (age: 42.6 ± 8.7 years; BMI: 23.8 ± 4.2 kg/m2) healthy subjects were respectively recruited for each protocol. ANCOVA analysis showed an overall effect of meals and sex on EI within meal and at the subsequent meal, resulting in a lower EI after LP compared to DWP (p

Abstract Dry beans and other pulses (e.g., chickpeas and cowpeas) are nutrient‐dense foods that promote human and environmental health. However, consumption is declining in many regions around the world. Addressing barriers to greater pulse intake is important to reverse this trend. Cooking time is one such barrier, with consumers viewing the long cooking times of many pulses as a hurdle to higher consumption due to lack of time or fuel availability. Equipping consumers with simple, accessible ways to reduce pulse cooking time is one way to mitigate this barrier. Accordingly, this study assessed changes to cooking time when pinto beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) were cooked at four elevations using different soaking conditions, which reflect a combination of the soaking method and salt added to the soaking solution. There were seven different cooking conditions: soaking via the overnight or quick soak method in only water or in 1% sodium chloride (NaCl) or sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) solutions and a no soak with no salt added comparison. Using an overnight (12‐h) soak or a quick soak resulted in similar reductions in cooking time compared to unsoaked beans. Soaking in NaCl and NaHCO3 solutions further decreased cooking time than when only water was used, with the shortest cooking times seen for NaHCO3. Elevation also impacted cooking time, with the longest cooking time being for unsoaked beans at the highest testing elevation. Adding either salt to the soaking water reduced the effect of elevation. This information was synthesized to give consumers practical tips to reduce cooking time.

In this paper we combine two important theoretical methodologies, one related to the Frozen Wave beams (also referred to as Longitudinally Structured Light), which are non-diffracting beams whose longitudinal intensity pattern can be chosen a priori in a medium (absorbing or not), and the other related to the Airy-Type pulses, which are pulses resistant to dispersion effects in dispersive materials. As a result, a new method emerges capable of providing pulsed-beams resistant to three concomitant effects, i.e.: diffraction, dispersion, and attenuation; while concurrently the spatial variation of the wave along its axis of propagation can be engineered “at will”. The new approach can be seen as a generalization of the Localized Waves Theory in the paraxial regime and the new pulses can have potential applications in different fields such as optical communications, nonlinear optics, optical micromanipulations, optical microfabrication, and so on.

ABSTRACT Chickpea is a winter legume with prospects for worldwide consumption growth, mainly demanded by Asian countries. Thus, studies on its growth, such as the leaf area (LA), are important to determine proper management practices for its cultivation. The objective of this work was to determine a mathematical model able to estimate the leaf area (LA) of chickpea in a non-destructive method. For this, a field experiment was carried out in the county of Santa Maria (RS), with five cultivars available in the national market. Several leaves of each cultivar were collected, and their greatest width (W) and longest length (L) were measured. With the aid of a scanner, these leaves were photocopied, and their LA (cm2) was determined using software. With the power model, models relating to LA and its dimensions were determined. These models were tested using various statistics, with independent data. The results indicate that for the cultivars BRS Aleppo, BRS Kalifa, Jamu, and BRS Toro the best model is LA= 0,0940.(L)1.8483 and for the cultivar BRS Cícero the best model is LA = 0,1092.L2.1815.

Background: Protein undernutrition is a prevalent health problem in Ethiopia severely affecting the reproductive outcome of women. This is mainly because of inadequate consumption of protein due to the high cost of animal-origin food and the lack of knowledge about the benefits and the methods of preparation of pulses-based foods. Therefore, this trial was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of nutrition education in improving the consumption of pulses-based foods among female adolescents. Methods: A two-arm pragmatic cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted among female adolescents in Northwest Ethiopia. Clusters were schools assigned into intervention and control groups by cluster randomization. The trial participants were female adolescents. The intervention was pulses-based nutrition education, and the comparator was the usual dietary practice of adolescent girls. The education was delivered over four weeks on a 45–60 min session per week basis. The primary outcome of the intervention was pulses-based food consumption, and the secondary outcomes were knowledge and attitude about pulses food. Data on the outcome and the confounding variables were collected at baseline and end-line of the intervention. The analysis was based on intention-to-treat analysis, and a log-binomial logistic regression model was fitted to the data to calculate relative risk with the corresponding p value adjusted for baseline characteristics. The intervention was considered effective when the p value was < 0.05. Results: A total of 269 intervention and 278 control participants from the four clusters completed the trial making response rates of 92.1% and 95.2%, respectively. The pulses-based nutrition education enabled participants in the intervention group to maintain their pulses-based food consumption state, while participants in the control group significantly reduced their consumption by about threefold [ARR; 95% CI 2.99 (1.87, 4.79)] from harvesting to non-harvesting season. The consumption of pulses-based food was higher by 16% among the intervention participants as compared to the control participants [ARD; 95% CI 0.16 (0.10, 0.21)]. Conclusion: Pulses-based nutrition education is effective in improving the consumption of pulses-based food among female adolescents. Therefore, policies and strategies are required to integrate this intervention in the school nutrition program. Trial registration: The trial was registered in the Pan African Clinical Trials Registry (PACTR202111813445259) on 02 November 2021. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulses are dry seeds of legumes which are high in fiber and contain plant protein and several important macronutrients. Our aim was to model the nutritional effects of substituting servings of protein foods and/or refined grains with servings of beans and peas in the Healthy U.S.-Style Pattern identified in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020–2025. Dietary modeling was accomplished by substituting nutrients of protein foods and/or refined grains with nutrients of the USDA's beans and peas (pulses) composite in the 2000 kcal Healthy U.S.-Style Pattern. A 10% or more change was used as an indicator of meaningful differences. Cost implications were computed by adding the cost of pulses and subtracting the cost of protein foods/refined grains according to the modeling scenario. The substitution of 6–8 oz/week protein foods with 1.5–2.0 cups/week pulses increased fiber and decreased cholesterol. Higher amounts of pulses replacing refined grains or combinations of protein foods and refined grains generally increase fiber, iron, magnesium, potassium, and copper depending on the modeling scenarios. All modeling scenarios of substituting the servings of protein foods alone or in combination with refined grains with the servings of pulses were associated with cost savings. Our results suggest that encouraging increased pulse consumption may be an effective strategy for improving diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rising temperatures impact different developmental stages of summer crops like mung bean, particularly during the crucial seed-filling stage. This study focused on twomung bean genotypes, categorized as heat-tolerant [HT] or heat-sensitive [HS]. These genotypes were grown in pots in an outdoor natural environment (average day/night temperature 36°C/24.3°C) until the onset of podding (40 days after sowing) and subsequently relocated to controlled-environment walk-in growth chambers for exposure to heat stress (42°C/30°C) or control conditions (35°C/25°C) until maturity. For all measured attributes, heat stress had a more pronounced effect on the HS genotype than on the HT genotype. Heat-stressed plants exhibited severe leaf damage, including membrane damage, reduced chlorophyll content, diminished chlorophyll fluorescence, and decreased leaf water content. Heat stress impeded the seed-filling rate and duration, decreasing starch, protein, fat, and mineral contents, with a notable decline in storage proteins. Heat stress disrupted the activities of several seed enzymes, inhibiting starch and sucrose accumulation and consequently decreasing individual seed weights and seed weight plant-1. This study revealed that heat stress during seed filling severely impairedmung bean seed yield and nutritional quality due to its impact on various stress-related traits in leaves and enzyme activities in seeds. Moreover, this research identified potential mechanisms related to heat tolerance in genotypes with contrasting heat sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The effect of cooking time and the solid content was analysed in the techno‐functional properties of lentils and common beans aquafaba, and their powders obtained through spray‐drying. Foam drainage kinetic and emulsion destabilisation were successfully modelled showing that lentil aquafaba had better foaming capacity than beans, due to its higher protein content. Moreover, an increase in cooking time results in more liquid incorporated into the foam and a longer lag phase. Bean aquafaba had acceptable emulsifying capacity, attributable to higher soluble carbohydrates. Additionally, microstructure, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry, rehydration capacity, and flowability of aquafaba powders were studied. Microscopy of dried lentil aquafaba showed damaged and collapsed particles, while bean powder consisted of spherical smooth particles. The dominant factor influencing aquafaba functional properties and powder characteristics was the legume type, attributed to their chemical compositions. These findings broaden the insights of alternative sources of aquafaba and enhance the industrial applicability of these residues through highly rehydratable and functional powders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a pressing global healthcare challenge. Innovative strategies that integrate superior medical and nutritional practices are essential for holistic care. As such, pulse consumption is encouraged for its potential benefit in reducing hypercholesterolaemia, dyslipidaemia, and triglyceride levels, as well as enhancing glycaemic control. This scoping review aims to assess the depth of evidence supporting the recommendation for pulse consumption in T2DM management and to identify gaps in the existing literature. We conducted a comprehensive search across the databases MEDLINE, Global Health, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library (up to July 2023). We included population-based studies of any design, and excluded review-style articles. Articles published in languages other than English were also excluded. From the 2449 studies initially identified, 28 met our inclusion criteria. Acute postprandial trials demonstrated improved glucose responses and enhanced insulin responses to pulse-based intervention. Meanwhile, long-term trials reported meaningful improvements in T2DM indicators such as haemoglobin A1C (HbA1c), fasting glucose, fasting insulin, C-peptide, and markers of insulin resistance like homeostatic model assessment (HOMA). Integrating more pulses into the diets of diabetic individuals might offer an efficient and cost-effective strategy in the global initiative to combat T2DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Practical, affordable solutions need to be implemented to address global challenges confronting human and environmental health. Despite a myriad of benefits for people and the planet, beans and other pulses (e.g., chickpeas, cowpeas, dry peas, lentils) are under-consumed. To better understand consumer concerns and interests, a Food Habits Survey was conducted and the findings were incorporated into the Colorado State University Extension Bean Toolkit. Guided by the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills model, the toolkit included informational social media posts, cooking guidance, and an online class. A convenience sample of participants was recruited through Extension and university networks. After class participation, significant gains in knowledge of pulse nutrition, versatility, and cooking were observed, with an average increase of 1.5 points on a 5-point Likert scale (p < 0.001). Moreover, participants (n = 86) perceived a greater importance of motivators (e.g., nutrition, versatility, environmental benefits) and found barriers (e.g., flatulence, long cooking times, unfamiliarity) to be less discouraging. Most participants reported an intention to eat more pulses, and among those who completed the 1-month follow-up survey, pulse intake frequency increased (p = 0.004). Emphasizing motivating factors while simultaneously mitigating barriers to consumption can help reverse insufficient intake and promote healthy behavior change. Leveraging Extension or similar networks is one way to adopt a translational approach to better reach the public with this information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allostasis provides a supporting role to the homeostatic control of biological variables in mammalian species. While the concept of homeostasis is related to the control of variables within a set point or range that are essential to life, allostasis refers to systems that facilitate adaptation to challenges that the organism faces and the new requirements for survival. Essential for such adaptation is the role played by the brain in eliciting neural and neuroendocrine responses. Reproductive function is fundamental for the survival of species but is costly in energetic terms and requires a synchrony with an ever-changing environment. Thus, in many species reproductive function is blocked or delayed over immediate challenges. This review will cover the physiological systems and neuroendocrine pathways that supply allostatic control over reproductive neuroendocrine systems. Light, hypoxia, temperature, nutrition, psychosocial, and immune mediators influence the neuroendocrine control of reproductive functions through pathways that are confluent at the paraventricular nucleus; however, understanding of the integrative responses to these stimuli has not been clarified. Likely, the ultimate consequence of these allostatic mechanisms is the modification of kisspeptin and gonadotropin-releasing hormone neuronal activity, thus compromising reproduction function in the short term, while preserving species survivability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphine, as per several reports, is considered to be an ideal and effective alternative to methyl bromide (MB) fumigant, phased out globally honouring 'Montreal Protocol'. The food grains fumigated with phosphine are perceived to be residue-free; however, estimation of its residues is imperative. In the present study, the phosphine residues were estimated in grains of wheat, rice, green gram, chickpea and yellow pea fumigated with different formulations of phosphine under 7 and 10 days exposure periods at various locations in India. For efficacy studies, the conventional aluminium phosphide (AlP) tablet (56% @2 and 3 tablet/MT) and granular AlP (77.5% @1.0 and 1.5 g phosphine/m3) formulations were applied. Each treatment including untreated control was replicated thrice. The concentration was monitored every 24 h until the end of exposure periods. Food grain samples were drawn before and post fumigation following a certain waiting period for estimation of phosphine residues using gas chromatography equipped with FPD detector. Residues in fumigated food grains were observed in traces in all the experimental stacks, but below the MRL (0.1 ppm), fixed by Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC). Phosphine can be considered safe for use as an alternate fumigant in quarantine and long-term storage of food grains leaving residues below MRL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to determine the standardized ileal digestibility (SID) of protein and amino acids (AA) and calculate the digestible indispensable AA score (DIAAS) of three varieties of Canadian grown pulses (faba bean, lentil, and yellow pea). Three steam-pelleted (80 °C) diets (faba/lentil/pea; 40% inclusion) and a nitrogen-free diet were fed to eight cannulated growing pigs in a 4 × 4 replicated Latin square design. The SID values were used to calculate DIAAS. There were no differences in SID of protein and AA when all diets were compared (P > 0.05). The SID of methionine was 95% for faba beans, 96% for lentils, and 96% for peas. The SID of lysine was 93% for faba beans, 92% for lentils, and 90% for peas. Tryptophan had the lowest SID across all indispensable AA of all pulses (59% faba, 61% lentil, and 41% pea). All other indispensable AA SID were above 80%. Tryptophan was the limiting indispensable AA for all pulses as determined by DIAAS, with scores of 30 (faba), 57.83 (lentil), and 27.27 (pea). These values will aid in optimal inclusion of steam-pelleted pulses in diets for swine and provide an insight on the protein quality of pulses for humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulses are important as alternative sources of protein and carbohydrates for the animal industry and, thus, require accurate evaluation of their nutrient profile during processing. Extrusion is a thermal processing of ingredients to induce physiochemical changes that convert them into more valuable products. The current study evaluated the effects of extrusion on the starch and fibre components of Amarillo peas, Dun peas, chickpeas, faba beans, lentils, and soybean meal (SBM). Pulses were extruded at 18% or 22% moisture and 110, 130, or 150 °C. Extrusion decreased (P < 0.05) the starch content in Amarillo and Dun peas but increased (P < 0.05) the same in faba beans, lentils, and SBM when compared with their whole counterparts. There was no difference in the total dietary fibre content of whole and extruded Amarillo peas, Dun peas, chickpeas, and SBM. Extrusion increased (P < 0.05) the soluble dietary fibre (SDF) content of all pulses and SBM except chickpeas. Extrusion increased (P < 0.05) for all fibre types in faba beans. Results indicate that extrusion increased the starch and SDF content of most pulses but had negative or no effects on other fibre components in all pulses except faba beans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the last few years, the increasing evidence of dietary antioxidant compounds and reducing chronic diseases and the relationship between diet and health has promoted an important innovation within the baked product sector, aiming at healthier formulations. This study aims to develop a tool based on mathematical models to predict baked goods' total antioxidant capacity (TAC). The high variability of antioxidant properties of flours based on the aspects related to the type of grain, varieties, proximal composition, and processing, among others, makes it very difficult to innovate on food product development without specific analysis. Total phenol content (TP), oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), and ferric-reducing antioxidant power assay (FRAP) were used as markers to determine antioxidant capacity. Three Bayesian-type models are proposed based on a double exponential parameterized curve that reflects the initial decrease and subsequent increase as a consequence of the observed processes of degradation and generation, respectively, of the antioxidant compounds. Once the values of the main parameters of each curve were determined, support vector machines (SVM) with an exponential kernel allowed us to predict the values of TAC, based on baking conditions (temperature and time), proteins, and fibers of each native grain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The measurement of pesticide content in pulses at various stages of the supply chain is important in order to manage the maximum residue level (MRL) set by different government agencies. The objective of this study was to develop a non-destructive detection system to determine the glyphosate content in 6 pulses (chickpea, yellow pea, red lentil, large green lentil, French green lentil, and black beluga lentil) based on Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Organically grown pulses were artificially spiked with glyphosate at 5 concentrations (0 mg/kg, 5 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg, 15 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg) and used for the development and testing of FTIR spectroscopy and associated chemometric models. Principal component analysis (PCA) led to the discrimination and clustering in the pulse samples based on the applied glyphosate levels. Various preprocessing and variable selection techniques were applied on the spectral dataset and partial least squares (PLS) regression was used to predict the glyphosate levels in pulses. The correlation coefficient for prediction (Rp2) of glyphosate was 0.93, 0.92, 0.96, 0.91, 0.96, and 0.92 for yellow pea, chickpea, large green lentil, red lentil, black beluga, and French green lentil, respectively with optimized preprocessing and variable selection techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Legumes have multiple advantages that meet agroecological challenges. However, many farmers are reluctant to include them permanently in their crop rotations. We investigated farmers' motivations for growing pulses in a case study of a French cooperative which has developed a pulses sector, by analyzing data from questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Environmental and social values were more present among organic than conventional farmers; the latter were more concerned about their image. The results suggest that mechanisms to promote knowledge sharing among farmers would be valuable and highlight the intermediary role between local stakeholders that cooperatives can play to support agroecological policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of climate change, faba beans are an interesting alternative to animal proteins but are characterised by off-notes and bitterness that decrease consumer acceptability. However, research on pulse bitterness is often limited to soybeans and peas. This study aimed to highlight potential bitter non-volatile compounds in faba beans. First, the bitterness of flours and air-classified fractions (starch and protein) of three faba bean cultivars was evaluated by a trained panel. The fractions from the high-alkaloid cultivars and the protein fractions exhibited higher bitter intensity. Second, an untargeted metabolomic approach using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–diode array detector–tandem–high resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC–DAD–HRMS) was correlated with the bitter perception of the fractions. Third, 42 tentatively identified non-volatile compounds were associated with faba bean bitterness by correlated sensory and metabolomic data. These compounds mainly belonged to different chemical classes such as alkaloids, amino acids, phenolic compounds, organic acids, and terpenoids. This research provided a better understanding of the molecules responsible for bitterness in faba beans and the impact of cultivar and air-classification on the bitter content. The bitter character of these highlighted compounds needs to be confirmed by sensory and/or cellular analyses to identify removal or masking strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As one of the three major cereal crops, the production of pulses is only lower than that of cereals. It is the second source of protein for human beings. Pulses have attracted more and more attention from customers and researchers at domestic and abroad, owing to its nutrient characteristics, such as large amount of protein, starch, and fibers, low content of lipid, and abundant vitamins and minerals. There are plentiful and multiple pulses resources in China, thus this paper summarizes the distribution, classification, nutrient characteristics, and functional activities of pulses at native and foreign. Besides, this paper briefly discusses the development and utilization of relevant products with a view to more systematic and scientific recognition and provide reference for further research directions.

Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) production faces challenges due to shifting environmental conditions, potentially leading to a transition towards cooler or highland Mediterranean environments. This study assessed the responses of five lentil genotypes across five diverse locations (L1–L5) managed under organic cropping systems over two seasons, focusing on key parameters including seed yield (SY), crude protein (CP), cooking time (CT), seed loss percentage (SL), and yield loss per hectare (YL) caused by bruchid (Bruchus sp.). Excessive seasonal rainfall (500 mm), low winter temperatures (−17.9 °C), bruchid SL, and spring sowing were identified as crucial, particularly in challenging environments like highlands. Genotype selection was highlighted as essential for balancing yield and stability, with the small-seeded cultivar ‘Dimitra’ demonstrating lower YL due to bruchid. Additionally, increased CP was noted in response to heightened bruchid infestations. Specific recommendations were proposed for different environments: In productive lowland areas with low bruchid pressure and high CTs (L1), prioritizing cultivars like ‘Samos’, ‘Dimitra’, and ‘Thessalia’ enhances quality. Locations with high bruchid populations (L4) were not favored organic production but can serve as genetic resistance screening sites. High-elevation environments (L3, L5) proved significantly less productive, underscoring the requirement for earlier and winter-hardy cultivars. These insights guide lentil cultivation, emphasizing the need for tailored breeding strategies adaptable to changing environments.

BackgroundThinness and stunting are the most severe public health problems among adolescent girls in Ethiopia. An inadequate intake of protein-source foods is the most critical cause, mainly due to the non-affordability of animal-origin foods. However, research into what extent improving pulses-based food consumption could contribute to decreasing the magnitude of protein-energy undernutrition is limited.ObjectiveThis trial aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of pulses-based nutrition education in reducing the proportion of thinness among adolescent girls.MethodsA two-arm cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted among adolescent girls in Northwest Ethiopia from December 2021 to June 2022. A total of 602 adolescent girls from four schools were enrolled in the trial. Schools were assigned to intervention and control groups using the stratified cluster randomization method. Pulses-based nutrition education was the intervention, whereas the usual dietary practice of adolescent girls was the comparator. The education was delivered over 4 weeks on a 45–60-min session per week basis. Thinness was the primary outcome of the trial, measured by anthropometry. An intention-to-treat analysis method was used. A log-binomial regression model was fitted to the data. Relative risk with the respective confidence interval and value of p was calculated. A value of p

Plant genome editing, a recently discovered method for targeted mutagenesis, has emerged as a promising tool for crop improvement and gene function research. Many genome-edited plants, such as rice, wheat, and tomato, have emerged over the last decade. As the preliminary steps in the procedure for genome editing involve genetic transformation, amenability to genome editing depends on the efficiency of genetic engineering. Hence, there are numerous reports on the aforementioned crops because they are transformed with relative ease. Legume crops are rich in protein and, thus, are a favored source of plant proteins for the human diet in most countries. However, legume cultivation often succumbs to various biotic/abiotic threats, thereby leading to high yield loss. Furthermore, certain legumes like peanuts possess allergens, and these need to be eliminated as these deprive many people from gaining the benefits of such crops. Further genetic variations are limited in certain legumes. Genome editing has the potential to offer solutions to not only combat biotic/abiotic stress but also generate desirable knock-outs and genetic variants. However, excluding soybean, alfalfa, and Lotus japonicus, reports obtained on genome editing of other legume crops are less. This is because, excluding the aforementioned three legume crops, the transformation efficiency of most legumes is found to be very low. Obtaining a higher number of genome-edited events is desirable as it offers the option to genotypically/phenotypically select the best candidate, without the baggage of off-target mutations. Eliminating the barriers to genetic engineering would directly help in increasing genome-editing rates. Thus, this review aims to compare various legumes for their transformation, editing, and regeneration efficiencies and discusses various solutions available for increasing transformation and genome-editing rates in legumes.

Rising temperatures impact different developmental stages of summer crops like mung bean, particularly during the crucial seed-filling stage. This study focused on two mung bean genotypes, categorized as heat-tolerant [HT] or heat-sensitive [HS]. These genotypes were grown in pots in an outdoor natural environment (average day/night temperature 36°C/24.3°C) until the onset of podding (40 days after sowing) and subsequently relocated to controlled-environment walk-in growth chambers for exposure to heat stress (42°C/30°C) or control conditions (35°C/25°C) until maturity. For all measured attributes, heat stress had a more pronounced effect on the HS genotype than on the HT genotype. Heat-stressed plants exhibited severe leaf damage, including membrane damage, reduced chlorophyll content, diminished chlorophyll fluorescence, and decreased leaf water content. Heat stress impeded the seed-filling rate and duration, decreasing starch, protein, fat, and mineral contents, with a notable decline in storage proteins. Heat stress disrupted the activities of several seed enzymes, inhibiting starch and sucrose accumulation and consequently decreasing individual seed weights and seed weight plant−1. This study revealed that heat stress during seed filling severely impaired mung bean seed yield and nutritional quality due to its impact on various stress-related traits in leaves and enzyme activities in seeds. Moreover, this research identified potential mechanisms related to heat tolerance in genotypes with contrasting heat sensitivity.

Abstract: Processing consists of sequential operations aimed at cleaning, classifying, and treating seeds, with the goal of improving the quality of the lot. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the processing stages on the physical and physiological quality of chickpea seeds, cultivar BRS Cícero. Seeds were sampled before processing and after passing through the air screen machine (upper sieve of 12 mm and lower sieve of 7.5 mm), elevators, storage silo, and gravity table (upper discharge, high intermediate, low intermediate, and lower discharge). The seeds were evaluated for moisture content, physical purity, germination test, electrical conductivity test, emergence in sand, emergence speed index, accelerated aging, and tetrazolium test. The processing resulted in increased physical purity and reduced percentage of broken seeds in the lot of chickpea seeds. Seeds collected from the upper and intermediate chutes of the gravity table showed higher germination values. Seed processing using the air screen machine and the gravity table is effective in improving the physical and physiological quality of the lot of chickpea seeds, cultivar BRS Cícero.

Pulses, or the dry, edible seeds of non-oilseed legumes (e.g., chickpeas, cowpeas, dry beans, dry peas, and lentils), are uniquely positioned to simultaneously benefit human and environmental well-being, all while being affordable and important to diverse cultural food traditions around the world. Despite the benefits they can provide, pulses are dramatically under-consumed. One key barrier preventing higher intake among consumers is a lack of familiarity with how to prepare and regularly incorporate pulses into meals. To address this barrier and actualize findings from our laboratory, we created the Bean Cuisine, a 2-week cuisine (i.e., meal plan) with 56 pulse-centric recipes corresponding to 14 unique breakfast, lunch, snack, and dinner ideas. Each meal category was largely interchangeable, i.e., the order of the breakfast recipes is not important, and one could be swapped for another if a different order were preferrable to a consumer. Fifty-six citizen scientists were recruited to provide feedback on the Bean Cuisine. Free response feedback related to project participation was very positive, and common themes included changes in pulse consumption and cooking behaviors, increased awareness of pulse variety and versatility, and positive perceptions of citizen science. Overall, participation in the Bean Cuisine citizen science project helped create pulse advocates, empowering participants to advance the well-being of their communities through pulses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lentil production in arable, Mediterranean-type climates is limited by acute high temperature (HT) commonly occurring during the reproductive stage. With changing climate and greater weather extremes, there is a need to increase the HT tolerance of lentil to sustain production, and global germplasm provides adaptation opportunities. The current study assessed 81 genotypes for HT tolerance from a range of global climatic zones. Field screening of germplasm was undertaken over two consecutive years (2014 and 2015), in southern Australia, using a late-sowing approach, which included a subset of 22 genotypes that were screened in both years. Partially shaded temperature treatments within a split-plot arrangement were used to generate two different HT profiles. Stress indices, i.e., the yield stability index (YSI), the stress tolerance index (STI), and a third proposed high-temperature tolerance index (HTTI), were applied to rank the HT tolerance of germplasm. In 2014, under field conditions associated with natural temperature ranges that were favorable for screening, the following five landraces with increased temperature tolerance were identified: AGG 73838, AGG 70118, AGG 70951, AGG 70156, and AGG 70549. Among the 10 commercial varieties tested, one variety (i.e., cv. Nipper) was observed to have HT tolerance. For the YSI, which had the greatest amount of consistency in response across the 2 years (11 of the 22 genotypes), there were two genotypes (AGG 71457 and Nipper) which maintained their yield stability. These results demonstrate the opportunity that germplasm provides to improve the adaptation of lentil to HT. Ultimately, the late-sowing approach is one possible methodology to integrate into contemporary breeding programs for improving adaptation of lentil within Mediterranean-type environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IAC VR211 and IAC VM211 were developed for growing in Brazil with the aim of responding to the domestic and export market. The cultivars have a mean cycle of 85 days and yield potential of 2,191 kg ha-1 for IAC VR211 and 1,603 kg ha-1 for IAC VM211. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to develop an efficient debris-flushing technique for micro-EDM dressing to improve its process stability by providing a rotation to the dielectric medium. A setup was developed in-house in this regard to impart rotation to the dielectric medium at various speeds. To evaluate the efficiency of this flushing approach, the micro-EDM dressing process stability was assessed by monitoring and analyzing debris expulsion in real time with the aid of a high-speed photography and image processing technique on an immerging Ti6Al7Nb biomedical material. The process stability was appraised by monitoring and quantifying the (a) normal and arcing pulses % with the help of a developed pulse discriminating system and (b) the workpiece retraction captured in real time by a laser triangulation displacement sensor for the whole duration of machining. Additionally, the physics behind debris exclusions captured through high-speed photography under dielectric rotation was understood by analyzing the debris flow behavior in the discharge gap using a COMSOL Multiphysics model. The results show that the proposed flushing approach was capable to improve the micro-EDM dressing process stability significantly in comparison to no dielectric medium rotation case. The debris evacuation results were also found in good agreement with the process stability results. From the comparison, it was found that as high as ~17% more normal pulses with a reduction in spindle retraction height by more than 98% were achievable at the highest dielectric rotational speed in comparison to the no rotation condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to compare the frequency of consumption, access to purchase, and type of preparations with pulses among people who eat a vegetarian/vegan or non-vegetarian diet during the COVID-19 pandemic. Cross-sectional surveys were distributed using different digital platforms and social networks. We investigated the frequency of consumption, access to purchase any type of preparations. Descriptive analyses were performed. Differences between the types of diet were tested by Chi-squared statistics. A total of 3339 adults participated in the survey in March 2021, 80% of the total participants were females; 13.6% were vegetarian or vegan (VV). The consumption of pulses increased by 25% among non-vegetarians and 54.5% in VV (p by 25% among non-vegetarians and 54.5% in VV (vey in March 2021, 80% of the total participants were females; 13.6% were vegetarian or vegan (VV). The consumption of pulses preparations. Descriptive analyses were performfood with high satiating power, when compared with the opinions of non-vegetarians (p ood with high satiating power, when cconsumption of pulses were observed in less than 30% of the respondents, but the percentage was lower among VV, the most common negative beliefs are "They are difficult to prepare" and "My family does not like them." Food preparations including pulses are more diverse among VV, and consumption being significantly higher in the 10 alternatives of preparations included in the study. These results highlight the importance of identifying the knowledge, practices, frequency, and preferences of consumption of legumes in the population to stimulate their consumption. Although we observed an increase in the consumption of legumes among those in the sample, the VV group showed a higher frequency of consumption, consumption of different types of legumes and varied preparation, and greater knowledge about the beneficial properties of legumes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential interactions of rhizobium bacteria in enhancing nodulation, nitrogen (N) fixation for boosting N availability, and the yield of black gram under a temperate environment continue to remain unexplored. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the agronomic performance of black gram cultivars, their yield comparisons, and shoot–grain–soil N dynamics in a prevalently rainfed farming system. Two black gram cultivars, NARC Mash-I and NARC Mash-II, were subjected to rhizobia inoculation combined with different N doses (0, 25, 50, 75, 100 kg ha−1). The response variables included root nodulation, agronomic yield attributes, grain yield, shoot–grain and soil N dynamics, and biological productivity. Black gram cultivar NARC Mash-II showed the maximum nodule formation (41 per plant), while each nodule obtained 0.69 g weight in response to RI combined with 25 kg N ha−1. Additionally, this combination showed the highest pods per plant and thousand grain weight, which maximized the grain yield (1777 kg ha−1) and biological productivity (3007 kg ha−1). In contrast, NARC Mash-I under 50 kg N recorded the highest shoot N content, while the same cultivar under 100 kg N exhibited the maximum soil N content. The correlation analyses indicated a significantly robust association among the nodule numbers, grain weight, and N contents in different plant organs. These results give mechanistic insights into plant–microbe interactions based on the eco-friendly, sustainable, and smart agricultural practice of black gram production in a temperate environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Our aims were to evaluate the relationship of habitual legume consumption with blood pressure (BP) control in a large cohort of people with T2D and hypertension, and to investigate whether specific nutritional components of legumes or other foods may contribute to regulate BP levels. Methods: We studied 1897 participants with T2D and hypertension. Dietary habits were assessed through a validated food frequency questionnaire. Sex-specific quartiles of legume consumption were created. Results: Higher legume consumption was associated with a lower intake of energy, carbohydrates, glycaemic load, alcohol, and sodium, and a significantly greater intake of proteins, fat, monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, fibre, potassium, and polyphenols. Significantly lower systolic and diastolic BP values were observed in the highest vs. lowest quartile of legume consumption (132.9 ± 6.7 vs. 137.3 ± 7.0 mmHg, p < 0.001; 78.9 ± 4.1 vs. 81.0 ± 4.2 mmHg, p = 0.002; respectively), as well as the proportion of people meeting the treatment targets (61.3% vs. 37.4% and 71.3% vs. 52.4%, respectively, p < 0.01). This association was independent from other foods whose consumption is associated with the high legume intake. Conclusions: In people with T2D and hypertension, three servings of legumes per week are associated with significantly better BP control. This gives further support to current dietary guidelines in recommending the frequent consumption of legumes, as a "ready-to-use" dietary strategy to achieve optimal BP control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consumers are more aware and demanding of healthy food options, besides being concerned with environment-friendly consumption. This paper aims to evaluate nutritional, technological, and sensory characteristics of legumes and their products' quality and versatility, considering potential applications in new food options. Legumes are foods that have a recognized nutritional group since they have high protein and fiber content. However, their consumption is still somehow limited for some reasons: in some countries it is not easy to find all the species or cultivars, they need an organization and planning before preparation since they need soaking, and there is the presence of antinutritional factors. Due to the different functionalities of legume proteins, they can be applied to a variety of foods and for different purposes, as grains themselves, aquafaba, extracts, flours, brans, and textured proteins and sprouts. These products have been inserted as ingredients in infant food formulations, gluten-free foods, vegetarian diets, and in hybrid products to reduce food costs as well. Foods such as bread, cakes, cookies, meat analogues, and other baked or cooked products have been elaborated with nutritional, technological and sensory quality. Further development of formulations focused on improving the quality of legume-based products is necessary because of their potential and protein quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Legumes processing involves large amounts of water to remove anti-nutrients, reduce uncomfortable effects, and improve organoleptic characteristics. This procedure generates waste and high levels of environmental pollution. This work aims to evaluate the galacto-oligosaccharide (GOS) and general carbohydrate composition of legume wastewaters and assess their potential for growing lactic acid bacteria. Legume wastewater extracts were produced by soaking and/or cooking the dry seeds of chickpeas and lentils in distilled water and analysed using high-performance liquid chromatography with refractive index detection. GOS were present in all extracts, which was also confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). C-BW extract, produced by cooking chickpeas without soaking, provided the highest extraction yield of 3% (g/100 g dry seeds). Lentil extracts were the richest source of GOS with degree of polymerization ≥ 5 (0.4%). Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CIDCA 83114 was able to grow in de Man, Rogosa, and Sharpe (MRS) broth prepared by replacing the glucose naturally present in the medium with chickpeas' and lentils' extracts. Bacteria were able to consume the mono and disaccharides present in the media with extracts, as demonstrated by HPLC and FTIR. These results provide support for the revalorisation of chickpeas' and lentils' wastewater, being also a sustainable way to purify GOS by removing mono and disaccharides from the mixtures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The market for gluten-free products is increasing with an estimated 7.6% annual growth rate from 2020 to 2027. It has been reported that most gluten-free products, such as bread, cookies, and pasta, contain great amounts of simple carbohydrates and are low in fiber and protein, affecting people's health. Pulses such as common beans, chickpeas, lentils, and peas have been studied as an alternative for developing gluten-free products because of their high protein and fiber content. In addition, they contain bioactive compounds with nutraceutical properties, such as phenolics, saponins, dietary fiber, and resistant starch, among others. Most studies carried out with pulses in vitro and in vivo have displayed health benefits, proving that pulse-based food products are better than their counterparts, even those containing wheat, with proper sensory acceptance. This work reviews pulse's nutritional and nutraceutical properties to promote the development and consumption of gluten-free products and improve their formulations to promote people's health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The food items, such as pulses and oil crops, are influential means of nutritional security for the people in Bangladesh. Pulses are widely called here as an alternative to meat for poor households. The study aimed to predict productivity and national demand of pulses and oil crops in Bangladesh by 2030 and 2050, minimizing the supply and demand gaps of these crops. Using the ARIMA model developed by Box and Jenkins, the current study projected Bangladesh's pulse and oil crop demand and supply for the years 2030 and 2050. The projections showed that the total demand for pulses in 2030 will be 17.9 lakh MT and further increased to 19.5 lakh MT in 2050. The deficit in the supply of pulses will be 12.36 lakh MT in 2030 and 9.26 lakh MT in 2050 although the shortage of pulses will disappear as a result of productivity improvements and innovations. Per capita consumption of edible oil in Bangladesh is 20–22 g per day. The majority of domestically produced soybean (5% of total demand) is used in the feed industries, while edible oil from soybean depends on import. The supply of mustard oil is predicted to be in deficit by 0.30 lakh MT in 2030 and 1.68 lakh MT in 2050. Nevertheless, the estimates also warn that supply of these food items could be threatened due to climate changes. In facing future challenges, supportive government policy and substantial investment in research and extension should be given priority for technological innovation and productivity improvement. Government also needs to develop a strategic import substitution policy for higher production of these crop and storage facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Value‐added utilization of pulse flours faces challenges related to their functionality in many food applications. The present research assessed the use of infrared heating (120°C vs. 140°C) tempered (20% vs. 30% moisture) green lentil and yellow pea seeds as a means of tailoring their functional properties. Findings: Some flour functionalities were mildly affected by processing and, in most cases, were correlated with protein surface hydrophobicity and damaged starch content. Solubility at pH 5 was relatively unchanged in response to processing, while the values were slightly lowered at pH 7. The water (WHC) and oil holding capacities (OHC) improved, although OHC tended to decline as heating temperatures increased. Both pulses had poor foaming capacities but high foaming stabilities that remained constant after processing. The highest emulsion activity (EA) for pea was with the 120°C and 30% moisture treatment whereas for lentil it was with 120°C and 20% moisture; the emulsion capacity declined after all treatments. Conclusions: Select conditions of infrared heating coupled with tempering of pulse seeds before milling can modestly improve the flour's EA, WHC, or OHC. Significance and Novelty: Yellow pea and green lentil flours from infrared pretreated seeds can now be more easily formulated into applications based on their functional properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity prevention is stated as a simple objective in the public health guidelines of most countries: avoid adult weight gain. However, the success of the global population in accomplishing this goal is limited as reflected in the persisting pandemic of overweight and obesity. While many intervention strategies have been proposed, most are directed at mitigating the consequences of obesity. Efforts intended to prevent unintentional weight gain and associated adiposity are termed anti-obesogenic. Herein, evidence is presented that a neglected category of foods, pulses, i.e., grain legumes, have anti-obesogenic activity. Using a preclinical mouse model of obesity, a dose–response study design in animals of both biological sexes, and cooked, freeze-dried, and milled common bean as a representative pulse, data are presented showing that the rate of body weight gain is slowed, and fat accumulation is suppressed when 70% of the dietary protein is provided from common bean. These anti-obesogenic effects are reduced at lower amounts of common bean (17.5% or 35%). The anti-obesogenic responsiveness is greater in female than in male mice. RNA sequence analysis indicates that the sex-related differences extend to gene expression patterns, particularly those related to immune regulation within adipose tissue. In addition, our findings indicate the potential value of a precision nutrition approach for human intervention studies that identify "pulse anti-obesogenic responders". A precision approach may reduce the concentration of pulses required in the diet for benefits, but candidate biomarkers of responsivity to pulse consumption remain to be determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many physiological systems rely on hormones to communicate and time cellular and tissue-level functions. Most endocrine systems are dynamic and governed by complex regulatory systems and/or feedback mechanisms to generate precise patterns and modes of hormone release in order to optimize control of physiological and cellular processes. This Special Issue focuses on hormone release patterns (ultradian, infradian, pulsatile, circadian), with a special emphasis on the hypothalamic-pituitary axis as well as melatonin release, and how these patterns of hormone secretion change during life stages and disease.