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This manuscript reviews two decades of projects funded by the Kirkhouse Trust (KT), a charity registered in the UK. KT was established to improve the productivity of legume crops important in African countries and in India. KTs requirements for support are: (1) the research must be conducted by national scientists in their home institution, either a publicly funded agricultural research institute or a university; (2) the projects need to include a molecular biology component, which to date has mostly comprised the use of molecular markers for the selection of one or more target traits in a crop improvement programme; (3) the projects funded are included in consortia, to foster the creation of scientific communities and the sharing of knowledge and breeding resources. This account relates to the key achievements and challenges, reflects on the lessons learned and outlines future research priorities.

Cowpea is a highly drought-adapted leguminous crop with great promise for improving agricultural sustainability and food security. Here, we report analyses derived from array-based genotyping of 2,021 accessions constituting a core subset of the worlds largest cowpea collection, held at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Ibadan, Nigeria. We used this dataset to examine genetic variation and population structure in worldwide cowpea. We confirm that the primary pattern of population structure is two geographically defined subpopulations originating in West and East Africa, respectively, and that population structure is associated with shifts in phenotypic distribution. Furthermore, we establish the cowpea core collection as a resource for genome-wide association studies by mapping the genetic basis of several phenotypes, with a focus on seed coat pigmentation patterning and color. We anticipate that the genotyped IITA Cowpea Core Collection will serve as a powerful tool for mapping complex traits, facilitating the acceleration of breeding programs to enhance the resilience of this crop in the face of rapid global climate change.

BackgroundThe sweet potato whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) is a globally important insect pest that damages crops through direct feeding and by transmitting viruses. Current B. tabaci management revolves around the use of insecticides, which are economically and environmentally costly. Host plant resistance is a sustainable option to reduce the impact of whiteflies, but progress in deploying resistance in crops has been slow. A major obstacle is the high cost and low throughput of screening plants for B. tabaci resistance. Oviposition rate is a popular metric for host plant resistance to B. tabaci because it does not require tracking insect development through the entire life cycle, but accurate quantification is still limited by difficulties in observing B. tabaci eggs, which are microscopic and translucent. The goal of our study was to improve quantification of B. tabaci eggs on several important crop species: cassava, cowpea, melon, sweet potato and tomato.ResultsWe tested a selective staining process originally developed for leafhopper eggs: submerging the leaves in McBryde's stain (acetic acid, ethanol, 0.2% aqueous acid Fuchsin, water; 20:19:2:1) for three days, followed by clearing under heat and pressure for 15 min in clearing solution (LGW; lactic acid, glycerol, water; 17:20:23). With a less experienced individual counting the eggs, B. tabaci egg counts increased after staining across all five crops. With a more experienced counter, egg counts increased after staining on melons, tomatoes, and cowpeas. For all five crops, there was significantly greater agreement on egg counts across the two counting individuals after the staining process. The staining method worked particularly well on melon, where egg counts universally increased after staining for both counting individuals.ConclusionsSelective staining aids visualization of B. tabaci eggs across multiple crop plants, particularly species where leaf morphological features obscure eggs, such as melons and tomatoes. This method is broadly applicable to research questions requiring accurate quantification of B. tabaci eggs, including phenotyping for B. tabaci resistance.

The article discusses molecular biological studies on the interactions between bromoviruses and plants, focusing on factors influencing virus replication, movement, infection, and host defense responses. It highlights the establishment of gene manipulation systems for bromoviruses and the analysis of viral and host factors required for infection in plants. The research also delves into the role of specific plant genes in regulating viral infection and explores the potential for developing new disease control technologies. The study emphasizes the importance of understanding virus-plant interactions to combat viral diseases effectively. [Extracted from the article]

The current study investigated how well an aqueous extract of Rubia cordifolia and a Bacillus amyloliquefaciens bacterium strain (DW6 OR083409) protected Vigna unguiculata L. plants from Fusarium oxysporum infection. In vitro study revealed that Rubia cordifolia aqueous extracts at 10% and 30% did not exhibit antifungal activity against F. oxysporum isolate, likewise no inhibition towards F. oxysporum as a presence of B. amyloliquefaciens DW6. Molecular identification characteristics confirmed the fungal pathogen being F. oxysporum AWEKA, based on the 18s rRNA sequence. B. amyloliquefaciens was found to produce indole-3-acetic acid, gibberellic acid, and hydrogen cyanide at concentrations being 203.67 ± 5.6, 335.6 ± 7.5, and 218 ± 6.4 µg/ml, respectively. In vivo, the growth of plants enhanced the induced resistance of cowpea plants against F. oxysporum during treatments with the biotic agents. The activity of defense-related enzymes was also enhanced, where Bacillus culture showed the highest increase, followed by the R. cordifolia at 30% extract and bacterial supernatant, respectively. SEM investigation of infected cowpea roots revealed notable differences in xylem vessels, including tylose formation and obstruction of vessels. Plasmolysis of parenchymal cells and hydrolysis of some cells were observed following the fungicide treatment. Both Bacillus amyloliquefaciens DW6 and the 30% aqueous extract of R. cordifolia proved effective in enhancing the induced resistance of cowpea against F. oxysporum, leading to a reduction in the damage caused by Fusarium root infection. Interestingly, this is the first report attaining the boosting of Vigna unguculata's immune system towards F. oxysporum using aqueous extract of R. cordifolia and endophyte bacterium; B. amyloliquefaciens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) is appreciated for its suitability for cultivation and obtaining good yields in relatively extreme farming conditions. It is resistant to high temperatures and drought. Moreover, food products prepared from Vigna are rich in many nutrients such as proteins, amino acids, carbohydrates, minerals, fiber, vitamins, and other bioactive compounds. However, in East and Southeast Asia, where the products of this crop are in demand, the climate is characterized by excessive humidity. Under these conditions, the vast majority of cowpea varieties tend to have indeterminate growth (elongated shoot length) and are unsuitable for mechanized harvesting. The molecular mechanisms for tolerance to high relative humidity remain the least studied in comparison with those for other abiotic stress factors (drought, heat, cold, flooding, etc.). The purpose of the work was to reveal and investigate differentially expressed genes in cowpea accessions having contrasting growth habits (determinate and indeterminate) under humid and drought conditions. We performed RNA-seq analysis using selected cowpea accessions from the VIR collection. Among the genotypes used, some have significant changes in their plant architecture in response to high relative humidity, while others were tolerant to these conditions. In total, we detected 1697 upregulated and 1933 downregulated genes. The results showed that phytohormone-related genes are involved in cowpea response to high relative humidity. DEGs associated with jasmonic acid signaling are proposed to be key contributors in the maintenance of compact architecture under humid conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract\nNOVELTY STATEMENTIn this study, a composite of silver and titanium dioxide nanoparticles (AgNPs-TiO2NPs) was examined for its synergistic effects on phytostabilization of lead (Pb) and mitigation of toxicity in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L) Walp). Seeds of V. unguiculata were wetted with water, 0.05 and 0.1 mgL−1 Pb and 25 mgmL−1 each of AgNPs, TiO2NPs, and AgNPs-TiO2NPs. Root lengths of V. unguiculata were reduced by 25% and 44% at 0.05 and 0.1 mgL−1 Pb, respectively, while shoot lengths were reduced by 2% and 7%. In V. unguiculata, AgNPs and TiO2NPs significantly improved physiological indicators and mitigated Pb effects, with TiO2NPs modulating physiological parameters more effectively than AgNPs. The composite (AgNPs-TiO2NPs) synergistically regulated V. unguiculata physiology better than individual nanoparticles. Compared to individual AgNPs and TiO2NPs, the composite (AgNPs-TiO2NPs) synergistically increased antioxidant activity by 12% and 9%, and carotenoid contents by 88%. Additionally, AgNPs-TiO2NPs effectively reduced malondialdehyde levels by 29%, thereby mitigating the effects of Pb on V. unguiculata better than individual nanoparticles. AgNPs-TiO2NPs enhanced Pb immobilization by 57%, reducing its translocation from soil to shoots compared to V. unguiculata wetted with water. The bioconcentration and translocation factors of Pb indicate that phytostabilization was most effective when the composite was used.A synergetic interaction between silver nanoparticles and titanium dioxide nanoparticles (AgNPs-TiO2NPs) was investigated in this study for their capability to promote phytostabilization of Pb pollution in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L) Walp). This study shows a notable improvement in plant physiological indices, antioxidant activity, and the immobilization of Pb when AgNPs-TiO2NPs are employed in synergy, as opposed to using them separately. Additionally, the study demonstrates how nanoparticles can synergize to enhance phytostabilization, offering promising prospects for sustainable phytoremediation strategies in the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Megalurothrips usitatus, is an important pest of cowpeas Vigna unguiculata, that causes severe damage to cowpea crops in Southeast Asia and Hainan Province in China. Neoseiulus newsami is a natural enemy of M. usitatus that was first reported from Ledong Li Autonomous County, Hainan, China. Here, we evaluated the potential of N. newsami as a biocontrol agent for use against M. usitatus. In laboratory tests, N. newsami showed a similar rate of attack on this pest as did the better-known species Neoseiulus barkeri. The functional response curve of N. newsami fed M. usitatus showed that more 1st instar prey were consumed by N. newsami at higher prey densities, indicating a Type III functional. The maximum attack coefficient (a) was 0.063 ± 0.011 and the handling time per consumed prey (Th) was 0.58 ± 0.09. The maximum attack rate (T/Th) was 41.37. Neoseiulus newsami showed higher predation and oviposition rates than did N. barkeri or Neoseiulus cucumeris. Our results suggest that N. newsami has a higher predation capacity against M. usitatus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the most agriculturally and economically important crops in the world. Wheat fungal diseases are becoming more severe and frequent due to global climate change, threatening wheat yields and security. While fungal diseases such as fusarium head blight, stripe rust, and powdery mildew have been extensively studied, the newly emerged fungal pathogens in wheat are still under-researched. In May 2023, black mold symptoms were observed on wheat spikes in Xinxiang City, Henan Province, China. However, the causal agent of this disease was not known. We employed a combination of morphological examination and molecular techniques to identify the pathogen. The internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1), and actin (act) genes of the fungus were partially sequenced (accession no. OR186209, PQ271633 and PQ271632) and showed 99.59–100% identity with the previously reported Cladosporium cladosporioides, which affects wheat, pokeweed, and black-eyed pea. The pathogenicity of this fungus was confirmed by fulfilling Koch's postulates. Through a rigorous screening process, we found Simplicillium aogashimaense, Trichothecium roseum, and Bacillus velezensis as effective biocontrol agents, with B. velezensis demonstrating the most potent antagonistic activity against the Cladosporium mold. This discovery showed the potential of B. velezensis as a biocontrol agent for wheat disease management. The findings underscore the importance of the present study in advancing the control of this disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The effects of temperature and the host plant on the digestion rate of thrips, Frankliniella intonsa (Trybom), were assessed using a molecular diagnostic tool. The digestion rates of F. intonsa were determined as detectability half-lives of plant DNA in the gut content of thrips. Compared to the optimal temperature (26 °C), high and low temperatures (16 °C and 32 °C) both seem to accelerate the digestion in F. intonsa. The protein content of plants played an important role in the digestive response of F. intonsa to temperature changes. The results provide a direct insight and a better understanding of digestion in thrips. Frankliniella intonsa (Trybom) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) is an important type of thrip and a polyphagous pest, which poses a serious threat to many crops, especially those in tropical regions of China. Its feeding behavior and the damage caused vary among different host plant species and are affected by ambient temperature and plant nutrients as well. The digestion rate is an important index for directly observing the digestion process, but there have been no studies directly measuring the digestion in thrips under the influence of different temperatures and host plants. Here, the digestion rate of F. intonsa was assessed by using a molecular diagnostic tool. We also determined the nutrient content in three host plant (mango, cowpea, and pepper), including soluble proteins, free fatty acids, soluble sugars, and water. The results showed that the high and low temperatures (16 °C and 32 °C) both seemed to accelerate the digestion of F. intonsa compared to the optimal temperature (26 °C) and the protein content of plants played an important role in the digestive response of F. intonsa to temperature changes. The findings can help reveal the feeding damage caused by F. intonsa to different plants and help to better understand its feeding ecology, according to its interaction with the host plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strigolactones (SLs), plant-derived apocarotenoids, serve dual roles as phytohormones and rhizosphere signaling molecules. While exogenous administration of SLs to plants aids in studying their functions, the metabolic destiny of these administered SLs remains poorly elucidated. Our previous research demonstrated that among synthetic SL GR24 stereoisomers administered to cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), 2′- epi -GR24 undergoes selective reduction at the C-3′,4′ double bond in its D-ring. In this investigation, we isolated proteins from cowpea roots based on SL reducing activity and identified 12-oxophytodienoate reductase 3 homologs (VuOPR3s) as contributors to this reduction. Enzymatic assays conducted with recombinant proteins revealed that VuOPR3s exhibited a preference for reducing activity toward 2′ S -configured SLs, including 2′- epi -GR24. This specificity for 2′ S -configured SLs was congruent with that observed for orobanchol produced by cowpea and its stereoisomers. These findings suggest that exogenously administered SLs undergo enzymatic stereoselective reduction, underscoring the importance of considering stereospecificity when interpreting data obtained from SL usage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrasonication deployment provides a green and non‐thermal option to traditional hydrothermal treatment. This study presents the impact of ultrasonication and soaking temperatures (30 and 50°C) on the water uptake and hardness of two cowpea types under increasing soaking times (15–240 min). Moisture content and hardness of the studied samples were measured using standard test methods and instruments. An increase in soaking temperature and the use of ultrasonication enhanced water uptake and reduced hardness. Ultrasonication improved mass transfer, which enhanced the diffusion of water uptake. The samples' water uptake and softening characteristics were significantly modeled with high accuracy (R2 = 0.99) using sigmoidal and first‐order kinetics equations, respectively. The impact of sonication was found to be more significant at 30°C soaking of the studied cowpeas as the soaking time increased. This work justified using ultrasonication as a green technique to enhance the softening of cowpeas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The editorial commemorates the 10th anniversary of Technologies, an international, peer-reviewed journal published by MDPI. A special issue titled "10th Anniversary of Technologies—Recent Advances and Perspectives" was released, featuring 36 papers on various topics like quantum technologies, environmental technologies, and medical technologies. The contributions cover a wide range of innovative research, from forecasting methods to robotic arm prostheses, offering valuable insights for future technological developments. [Extracted from the article]

Direct application of low-grade rock phosphate (RP) is a less expensive alternative than the application of chemical phosphorus (P) for small holders relying on nutrient-deficient weathered soils. However, the effect of RP application on growth and yield is unstable for different crop species and soil water conditions. To identify legume species effective for RP direct application, five tropical legumes (cowpea, groundnut, bambara nut, mung bean, and soybean) were tested under two soil types with different water-holding capacities in Sudan Savanna; Lixisols and Plinthosols. The experiment was conducted under three conditions of P treatment, namely, RP application, triple super phosphate (TSP) application, and no phosphorus fertilizer application (0P). Under RP treatment, higher grain yield was obtained in Lixisols, which had a higher water-holding capacity. However, the yield increase was suppressed in the year with more rainfall owing to drastic changes in the soil moisture content, which caused excessive soil moisture stress during vegetative growth periods. Among the five legume species, cowpea and groundnut showed higher grain yields under the RP treatment than did other species. RP application increased shoot biomass but caused small changes in the shoot P and N concentrations. Soybean in Plinthosols had the highest yield ratio of RP/0P, but the absolute yield was low because of the insufficient soil water availability caused by the low water-holding capacity. RP direct application can assist shoot growth and yield, but it rarely compensates for basal yield differences between soil types and among legume species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antioxidants derived from food by-products are known for their bioactive properties and impact on human health. However, the gastrointestinal behavior is often poor due to their degradation during digestion. The development of Ca(II)–alginate beads supplemented with biopolymers and enriched with cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) extract could represent a novel environmentally friendly technological solution to produce functional ingredients in the food industry. The present study evaluates the impact of in vitro digestion/fermentation by analyzing global antioxidant response (GAR), production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) as a modulation of gut microbiota, and behavior of proton transverse relaxation times by low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (as an indicator of gelation state and characterization of microstructure). Results revealed that guar gum and cowpea protein preserved a high GAR of total phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity by ABTS and FRAP methods after digestion/fermentation, promoting an adequate protection of the bioactives for their absorption. Alginate-based beads have great potential as prebiotics, with the guar gum-containing system contributing the most to SCFAs production. Finally, the overall higher mobility of protons observed in the intestinal phase agrees with structural changes that promote the release of phenolic compounds during this stage. Beads are excellent carriers of bioactive compounds (cowpea phenolic compounds and peptides) with potential capacities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The yield of soybeans is affected by the performance of agronomic traits and the presence of abiotic and biotic environmental stresses. The utilization of pesticides to alleviate biotic environmental stressors results in environmental deterioration. One of the biotic environmental stresses is virus disease caused by Cowpea mild mottle virus. Identifying the main factors influencing yield and selecting traits resistant to virus infection can assist development programs in creating soybean varieties with enhanced Cowpea mild mottle virus tolerance. The soybean lines can face one of the biotic environmental stresses. Soybean varieties are susceptible to a range of biotic environmental challenges. This investigation sought to examine the diversity in agronomic traits and disease resistance, to identify the top-performing soybean varieties for controlling Cowpea mild mottle virus disease. METHODS: The plant materials were 1000 soybean lines originating from 26 crosses. Each line was planted in rows and inoculated with Cowpea mild mottle virus naturally using the Bemisia tabaci vector. To set up the experiment, a population of Bemisia tabaci carrying the Cowpea mild mottle virus was established in the field, enabling natural biotic environmental stress of the plants by the virus infection. The identification of the lines was conducted through an assessment of agronomic characteristics and an analysis of the relationship between these characteristics and their susceptibility to Cowpea mild mottle virus. The attributes that had a substantial impact on the principal component analysis biplot and their correlation with seed yield per plot were initially identified as selection criteria. FINDINGS: Soybean plants displayed diverse agronomic characteristics and disease ratings. Rather than relying on resistance, their defense mechanism against diseases involved tolerance. The variation in soybean characteristics can be attributed mainly to factors such as seed yield, the number of filled pods, and the number of productive pods per plant. Additionally, plant height showed the strongest correlation among these traits. The selected 100 soybean varieties displayed outstanding agronomic characteristics and resistance to diseases, leading to a decrease in the need for pesticides and contributing to environmental conservation. CONCLUSION: Soybean seed yield is influenced by agronomic traits and biotic environmental stress such as virus disease, with significant diversity observed among the tested lines. The attributes that had the most significant impact were the number of productive nodes, quantity of filled pods, and seed yield per plant. Plant height consistently showed a strong correlation with seed yield. Seed yield per plant had a positive correlation with the disease score, making it unsuitable as a selection criterion. This positive correlation has been observed, indicating that soybeans possess a mechanism of tolerance that enables them to sustain optimal seed yields even when infected by a virus. The criteria for selecting 100 superior soybean lines included the number of filled pods, number of nodes, and plant height, which were deemed suitable for the evaluation process. The use of 100 selected soybean lines can reduce pesticide usage while maintaining environmental quality and supporting sustainable agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractIntercropping is a sustainable way to achieve the growing demands for food and fodder of expanding population of tropical areas. Combined application of nutrient sources along with inclusion of fodder crops in cropping system will influence soil as well as plant characteristics above ground as well as below it. These sustainable approaches may increase nutrient use efficiency by rhizosphere management at soil and plant level giving better understanding of soil plant atmosphere continuum (SPAC). The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of nutrient management and seed ratios on dynamics of root nodules of berseem as well as succeeding crop cowpea at Agronomy Research farm, National Dairy Research Institute, Haryana, India. Intensive root studies had been done regarding root parameters in berseem as well as residual succeeding crop cowpea in this research. The study revealed that 100%RDF(Recommended dose of Fertilizer)+PGPR (Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria) had given maximum number of nodules (118.60) and other traits for three cuttings in terms of nutrient management and sole berseem in terms of seed ratios number of nodules (112.92), whereas 50%RDF (Recommended dose of Fertilizer) +50% FYM (Farm Yard Manure)-(62.5) and sole berseem (54.30) at harvest had shown better results in terms of residual activity on roots nodules of succeeding crop cowpea where number of nodules (62.5) and fresh wt. of root nodules (622.1 mg) at harvest in 50%RDF + 50% FYM. This research revealed that employing organic sources of nutrients like FYM (Farm Yard Manure) and biofertilizers like PGPR (Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria) along with inorganics in correct proportions enhances the root traits of leguminous fodder crops and reduce sole dependency on harmful agricultural inputs. Hence, this would fulfill the long-term nutritional requirement of crop and preserve crop status in terms of quality and quantity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation was conducted to analyze the impact of the gamma irradiation dose on the microbiological, structural, and functional properties of buckwheat, cowpea, oat, and brown rice flour. The results showed that as the irradiation dose increased, there was a significant reduction in the total bacterial count (TBC) and the total yeast and mold count (TYMC). Specifically, a decrease of 60.67% was observed in TBC and 63.49% in TYMC compared to unirradiated samples, even at a dose of 5 kGy. In addition, there was a significant increase in the total phenolic content of all flour samples (8% for cowpea to 56.48% for buckwheat) after exposure to irradiation. In particular, buckwheat flour exhibited the highest DPPH inhibition capacity of 79.80% when irradiated at 15 kGy, outperforming the other flour samples. However, the FTIR spectra remained unchanged. The application of irradiation to cereals and legumes has recently been recognized as an innovative method to address the issues caused by insects and pests. Gamma irradiation can be applied to the product after packaging, reducing the risk of cross‐contamination. Additionally, this technique is nonthermal and does not leave any residues. The dietary value, sensory, and other quality parameter characteristics of pseudocereals and cereal‐related products can be preserved by subjecting them to controlled irradiation doses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (Smith), a notorious pest native to the tropical and subtropical Americas, has recently invaded China, causing substantial damage to crops, particularly maize. The push–pull strategy has been reported to be an effective prevention measure for FAW in Africa, with maize–soybean intercropping significantly reducing FAW infestation. To assess the potential of legume hosts as ‘push’ or ‘pull’ plants to control FAW in maize, we employed life table analysis and indoor cage tests to investigate the offspring performance, feeding and oviposition preference of FAW on five selected legume species, namely mung bean (Vigna radiata L.), soybean (Glycine max L.), kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), red bean (Vigna angularis Willd.) and cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp), with maize (Zea mays L.) as a control. Mung bean and cowpea were subsequently selected as repellent and attractant plant, respectively, to study FAW infestation levels in maize in the field. The results showed that maize was the most suitable host plant for FAW, as indicated by its shortest developmental duration and highest pupal weight. However, among all the tested legume species, cowpea was the best host for FAW, with shorter larval, pre‐adult and adult durations than on the leaves of the other legumes. Moreover, the feeding and oviposition preference tests revealed that FAW had a strong preference for maize and cowpea, but strongly rejected mung bean. Compared with that in the maize monoculture group, the total number of eggs laid in the maize–mung group decreased by 67.25%, whereas that in the maize–cowpea group significantly increased by 2.04‐fold in greenhouse tests. In the randomised block field experiment, the infestation of maize by FAW in the mung bean–cowpea system was significantly lower than that in the maize monoculture or in the system with maize surrounded only by cowpea. This study indicated that mung bean and cowpea are promising candidates as repellent plants (push) and attractant plants (pull), respectively, for intercropping with maize to reduce the damage caused by FAW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cowpea remains a crop of choice by most smallholder farmers particularly in arid and semiarid areas of the world due to its reported resilience to drought. However, recent evidence suggests that drought is currently a major abiotic stress in arid and semiarid regions with major consequences on crop yields and quality. Developing better‐adapted and drought‐tolerant varieties remains a sure strategy to reduce crop yield loss among farmers. The objective of the study was to explore the genetic variability among a diverse set of cowpea genotypes and identify drought‐tolerant genotypes for developing more productive and drought‐tolerant varieties. A diverse panel of 315 cowpea genotypes was evaluated under water stress and nonstress conditions across two locations using an Alpha lattice design. Water stress was imposed at the flowering stage, and irrigation was done after depletion of 80% of available water. Nine drought tolerance indices (MP = mean productivity index, GMP = geometric mean productivity index, HM = harmonic mean, STI = stress tolerance index, YI = yield index, YSI = yield stability index, TOL = tolerance index, Yrr = yield reduction ratio, and SSI = stress susceptibility index) were calculated based on grain yield under water stress and nonstress conditions. A joint analysis of variance across locations for both water stress trials and nonstress trials exhibited highly significant differences (P < 0.001) among the main effect of genotype (G), location (L), and the interaction (GL) for grain yield (kg/ha). The results indicated that the locations (environments) used in the study were distinct and the genotypes evaluated presented differentiated performance in response to environmental variations. Principal component analysis based on the rank correlation matrix and the Pearson product‐moment correlation coefficient revealed that most of the drought tolerant indices (MP, GMP, HM, YI, and STI) used were highly correlated with yield under stress and nonstress conditions which suggested that they are ideal for selecting drought tolerant genotypes that are stable and high yielding. From the genotypes screened under both water stress and nonstress conditions across two locations, the rank sum of indices selected 10 genotypes (MWcp66, Vuli‐1, TVu‐13265, MWcp27, MWcp20, MWcp59, IT99K‐573‐1‐1, IT98K‐131‐2, TVu‐1482, and IT 99K‐529‐1) as the most drought tolerant genotypes. These genotypes are therefore good sources of drought tolerant traits and are ideal for inclusion in a crossing program aimed at developing more productive and drought tolerant cowpea varieties more, especially in arid and semiarid areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND RESULTS CONCLUSION Various agricultural sidestreams have been demonstrated as feedstock to produce cellulose. To the best of our knowledge, there is no research work on the potential of agricultural sidestream from cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.), a neglected and underutilised crop to produce cellulose fibres. Conventional methods to produce cellulose consume large amounts of chemicals (NaOH) and produce a high amount of effluent waste. Herein, we investigated extrusion pre‐treatment without and with an alkali followed by bleaching as an alternative method to conventional alkaline pre‐treatment followed by bleaching to produce cellulose fibres from cowpea sidestream.Cellulose extracted by extrusion without and with mild alkali followed by bleaching consumed about 20 times less NaOH compared to the conventional method and produced less effluent waste. Extrusion with mild alkali followed by bleaching resulted in higher cellulose yield, purity, and crystallinity compared to extrusion without an alkali followed by bleaching. However, the conventional method resulted in higher cellulose yield, purity and crystallinity compared to extrusion pre‐treatment followed by bleaching. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that micro‐sized cellulose fibres with an average diameter of 10–15 μm were extracted using both methods. Notably, cellulose fibres extracted using extrusion pre‐treatment were shorter than those extracted using the conventional method.Extrusion pre‐treatment is a promising continuous alternative to alkaline pre‐treatment to produce micro‐sized cellulose fibres from low‐value, underutilised cowpea lignocellulosic sidestream, for potential use as a filler in composite plastics. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cowpea bruchid (Callosobruchus maculatus) is a major storage insect pest that reduces cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) yield and seed quality, making it unsafe for consumption. This study seeks to identify and map quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with resistance to cowpea bruchids. A total of 120 F2 lines from a cross between MU9 (susceptible) and WC42 (resistant) were genotyped with 2753 single nucleotide polymorphism markers. The F2:3 seeds were screened for resistance to cowpea bruchids using a no‐choice experiment. Significant differences were observed among the F2:3 lines for bruchid‐resistance traits, except on oviposition. The Dobie susceptibility index scale grouped the F2:3 lines from moderately resistant to highly susceptible, hence no highly resistant line was identified in this study. Ten QTL for resistance to bruchids were identified on chromosomes Vu02, Vu03, Vu04, Vu06, Vu08, Vu09, and Vu11. Two major QTLs were identified and mapped: on Vu06 for median development period (MDP6.1MW, R2 = 25.9%) and a co‐localized QTL region on Vu09 for number of adult bruchid emergence (NEI9.1MW, R2 = 28.6%), number of eggs per 10 seeds (NE9.1MW, R2 = 18.8%), average number of exit holes on seeds (ANH9.1MW, R2 = 19.6%), and seed weight (R2 = 15.6%–16.3%), respectively. Therefore, markers linked to the QTL identified in this study including MDP6.1MW, NEI9.1MW, and ANH9.1MW can be validated for marker‐assisted selection to fasten breeding for resistance to bruchid in cowpea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During decision-making, animals may use either innate or plastic behaviours. This has been suggested to be important for generalist phytophagous insects where females need to assess a large range of cues during host plant selection for oviposition. To facilitate the choice, generalists may thus use innate preference hierarchies among host plants combined with phenotypic plasticity based on earlier host experience, but if populations differ in whether they rely on innate or plastic factors during decision-making is not well-known. Females from an Egyptian population of the polyphagous moth Spodoptera littoralis has previously been found to shift preference between plants in their innate preference hierarchy depending on larval host plant experience. We studied the innate preference hierarchy for three host plants (cotton, cabbage and cowpea), and whether the hierarchy shifts based on larval host plant experience, in a Northern range margin population (Italy) and a core population (Kenya) of S. littoralis, to see if and how these traits vary across populations. In addition, we studied larval performance on the three host plants in all three populations. The Italian and Kenyan populations had different innate preference hierarchies, and both hierarchies differed from the hierarchy that has previously been found in the Egyptian population. Furthermore, the host plant selection of ovipositing females was affected by larval diet in the Italian and Kenyan population, but the larval host plant experience did not completely shift the preference hierarchy as in the Egyptian population. This indicates that not only host plant preference per se, but also phenotypic plasticity during host plant selection can vary between populations. We further found that the populations responded differently to larval diet for some performance traits. However, it was only the Italian population that showed indications of any link between preference and performance, as they had slower development on their least preferred host plant. Overall, preference divergence between populations seems not to be driven by local variation in larval performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), known for its high nutritional value, is one of the most important edible beans worldwide. In September 2023, a root rot disease was found in a greenhouse in Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, with symptoms of plant wilting. The isolates from the diseased samples were identified as Fusarium concentricum, F. fujikuroi and F. incarnatum based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis of four loci including the internal transcribed spacer region (rDNA‐ITS), translation elongation factor 1‐alpha (TEF1), beta‐tubulin (TUB2) and calmodulin (CAM). The pathogenicity of the representative isolates was confirmed on asymptomatic cowpea seedlings. Although other Fusarium species, particularly F. oxysporum, have been previously reported as pathogens of cowpea, this study is the first to document F. concentricum, F. fujikuroi, and F. incarnatum as causative agents of cowpea root rot in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the present investigation bioprocess for the formulation of liquid microbial inoculants with escalated shelf stability for forage cowpea has been standardized. The forage cowpea can make a relevant contribution towards livestock fodder and supply nitrogen to the soil. Methods: In the present study viability of Burkholderia seminalis, Burkholderia sp. and Bradyrhizobium sp. was evaluated for one month in a basal medium amended with different concentration of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) (0.5%, 1%, 2% and 3%), trehalose (5 mM, 10 mM, 15 mM and 20 mM), polyethylene glycol (PEG) (0.5%, 1%, 2% and 3%) and glycerol (1%, 3%, 5% and 7%). Result: At 30th day, maximum growth and survival was observed in the basal medium amended with 5 mM trehalose for all the three test cultures. Further, Liquid microbial inoculants of Burkholderia seminalis, Burkholderia sp. and Bradyrhizobium sp. were prepared using trehalose (5 mM) in basal medium and viability retention was studied up to 180 days of storage and compared to charcoal carrier based formulations at room temperature. Furthermore, Scanning electron microscopy provided insight of root colonization of forage cowpea by liquid microbial inoculants under gnotobiotic conditions, maximum root surface colonization was observed by liquid microbial inoculants of Burkholderia seminalis followed by Burkholderia sp. and Bradyrhizobium sp. Therefore, the optimized bioprocess can be used for the formulation of liquid microbial inoculants with enhanced shelf stability and could play a pertinent role in integrated nutrient management of forage cowpea for enhanced productivity and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bean common mosaic disease (BCMD) caused by Bean common mosaic virus (BCMV) has been regarded as one of the most important seed-borne and aphid vector transmitted destructive disease of cowpea not only affecting its yield but also reducing its grain quality globally. Since the dawn of crop improvement, germplasm served as the source of resistance for various biotic stresses. Currently, host plant resistance is the best, reliable, economic and environmental friendly practice of virus disease management. The objective of this study was to assess the response of diverse cowpea germplasm against BCMV under natural and controlled conditions followed by serological and molecular detection. Methods: In this study, 85 cowpea germplasm accessions and one known BCMV susceptible (C152) and one resistant (CP55) varieties are evaluated for their response to the BCMD in augmented block design (ABD). The reaction of cowpea accessions were assessed using percent disease incidence (PDI). Transmission Electron microscopy (TEM), Direct Antigen Coating-Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (DAC-ELISA) and Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) were used for confirming the BCMV. Result: Natural and controlled condition screening data analysis revealed a significant difference among diverse cowpea germplasm for BCMV diseases incidence. Based on field screening at Ranchi and New Delhi (2019 and 2020) and artificial confirmation. 24 out of 85 accessions were found to be immune and confirmed through DAC-ELISA and RT-PCR. As a consequence these accessions could be a potential new source of disease resistance for BCMV in breeding programs.Further, DAC ELISA of seed coat and Embryo revealed the presence of virus in 5% and 15% of samples tested. Accession IC418505 recorded highest disease incidence (40.0%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global projections indicate that the demand for fresh water, energy, and food will increase significantly in the coming decades under the pressure of population growth, economic development, climate change, and other factors. Faced with this, technologies that promote sustainable development through the use of clean energy will be imperative. That way, this study aimed at evaluating the productive performance of biomass sorghum and cowpea cultivars in different cropping systems and planting seasons. The experiment was conducted at the Caatinga Experimental Field at Embrapa Semiarid, Petrolina—PE. Four cowpea (BRS Itaim, BRS Gurguéia, BRS Guariba, and BRS Carijó) and two biomass sorghum cultivars (BRS 716 and AGRI-002E) were used in intercropping and monoculture systems. The cultivars were sown during two different seasons: June (season 1—winter) and December (season 2—summer) of 2021. The biometric and productive parameters and land equivalent ratios (LERs) of sorghum and cowpea were evaluated. The data were subjected to multivariate analysis. The productive performance of biomass sorghum cultivars Agri-002E and BRS 716 was higher when planted in December, with an increase of 37% due to the planting season. Cowpea productivity was not influenced by sowing seasons or the cultivation system. Based on the calculation of efficient land use, the intercropping between biomass sorghum cultivar BRS 716 and cowpea cultivars BRS Gurguéia, BRS Guariba, and BRS Carijó was advantageous when compared to monocultures planted in the hottest season. This study showed the importance of cultivar selection, the planting time, and land use efficiency in intercropping systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selecting genotypes tolerant to high temperatures is an important measure for agricultural maintenance and production in climate change scenarios. Thus, this study aimed to select cowpea genotypes tolerant to increased air temperature. A total of 20 cowpea genotypes were used, cultivated under temperature regimes of 20–26–33 °C and 24.8–30.8–37.8 °C in a completely randomized experimental design under a 2 × 20 factorial scheme (temperature regimes × genotypes). The BRS Inhuma, Bico-de-Ouro-17-45, BRS Guariba, and BRS Imponente genotypes did not show significant differences in the analyzed physiological responses to the increase in air temperature. The BRS Inhuma, Bico-de-Oouro-17-19, Bico-de-Ouro-17-44, Bico-de-Ouro-17-45, BRS Guariba, and BRS Imponente genotypes showed increased temperature tolerance as thermal stress did not affect production. The Pingo-de-Ouro-17-48, MNC00-595F-27, MNC06-895E-1, and MNC09-981B-2 genotypes reduced water efficiency by −26.85, −25.19, −40.04, and −60.37%, respectively, due to the increase in temperature. The results obtained in this work represent a pre-selection of genotypes that are tolerant to high temperatures, with the BRS Inhuma, Bico-de-Ouro-17-45, BRS Guariba, and BRS Imponente genotypes indicated as tolerant to increased temperatures based on the interaction of physiological and productive responses. There is an urgent need to select cowpea genotypes tolerant to increased temperature to maintain production in climate change scenarios and ensure agricultural systems' sustainability and food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the refinement of sorghum, corn, and cowpea grains using the processing steps and equipment originally designed for wheat milling that consists of a conventional gradual reduction system. The need to mill these grains resulted from a desire to produce alternative ingredients for developing new fortified blended extruded foods used for food aid programming. Milling of white sorghum grain resulted in a crude protein content of 7.4% (wb) for both whole and coarse-milled flour. The crude protein content in whole fine-milled sorghum was 6.8% (wb), which was significantly lower than that of whole coarse flour at 9.3% (wb). A decrease in the ash content of sorghum flour correlates with the decortication process. However, degermed corn, fine and coarse, had significantly different crude protein content of 6.0 ± 0.2% (wb) and 7.7 ± 0.06% (wb), respectively. Degerming of corn improved the quality of corn flour (fine and coarse) by reducing the crude fat content from 3.3 ± 0.18% (wb) to 1.2 ± 0.02% (wb) and 0.6 ± 0.13% (wb), respectively. This helped increase the starch content from 60.1 ± 0.28% (wb) in raw corn to 74.7 ± 0.93% (wb) and 71.8 ± 0.00% (wb) in degermed fine and coarse corn flour, respectively. Cowpea milling did not produce differences in the milling stream outputs when the crude fat and crude protein were compared. Whole flour from the grains had higher milling yields than decorticated flour. This study demonstrated that a mill dedicated to wheat size reduction can be adapted to refine other grains to high quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical desiccation is widely used in agriculture to anticipate harvest and mitigate the effects of adverse environmental conditions. It is applied to both grains and seeds. Although this practice is widely used, there are still significant gaps in understanding the effects of different herbicide application times on seed quality and plant physiological responses. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of different herbicide application times on cowpea, focusing on seed quality, physiological responses, and biochemical composition, including chlorophylls, carotenoids, sugars, and proline, under nocturnal desiccation. In the first experiment, eight herbicides and two mixtures were applied at night: diquat, flumioxazin, diquat + flumioxazin, glufosinate ammonium, saflufenacil, carfentrazone, diquat + carfentrazone, atrazine, and glyphosate. All of the tested herbicides caused a reduction in normal seedling formation, with the diquat + carfentrazone combination resulting in 100% abnormal seedlings. A significant decrease in chlorophyll levels (chlorophyll a: 63.5%, chlorophyll b: 50.2%) was observed using diquat, which indicates damage to photosynthetic processes, while the carotenoid content increased. Total soluble sugars and proline were also negatively impacted, reflecting physiological stress and metabolic changes in seedlings. In the second experiment, three application times were tested with diquat, diquat + flumioxazin, and diquat + carfentrazone. Nocturnal application showed the most significant reduction in chlorophyll levels and increased carotenoid levels. Application at noon and late afternoon also significantly changed the soluble sugar and proline levels. These results indicate that the herbicide application time directly influences the seeds' physiological quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neoadjuvant intratumoral (IT) therapy could amplify the weak responses to checkpoint blockade therapy observed in breast cancer (BC). In this study, we administered neoadjuvant IT anti-canine PD-1 therapy (IT acPD-1) alone or combined with IT cowpea mosaic virus therapy (IT CPMV/acPD-1) to companion dogs diagnosed with canine mammary cancer (CMC), a spontaneous tumor resembling human BC. CMC patients treated weekly with acPD-1 (n = 3) or CPMV/acPD-1 (n = 3) for four weeks or with CPMV/acPD-1 (n = 3 patients not candidates for surgery) for up to 11 weeks did not experience immune-related adverse events. We found that acPD-1 and CPMV/acPD-1 injections resulted in tumor control and a reduction in injected tumors in all patients and in noninjected tumors located in the ipsilateral and contralateral mammary chains of treated dogs. In two metastatic CMC patients, CPMV/acPD-1 treatments resulted in the control and reduction of established lung metastases. CPMV/acPD-1 treatments were associated with altered gene expression related to TLR1–4 signaling and complement pathways. These novel therapies could be effective for CMC patients. Owing to the extensive similarities between CMC and human BC, IT CPMV combined with approved anti-PD-1 therapies could be a novel and effective immunotherapy to treat local BC and suppress metastatic BC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field experiments were carried out at two sites to test the responses of weeds in cowpea crop to soil incorporation and surface mulching of corn residue alone or in combination with 50% rate of trifluralin herbicide. Conventional and zero tillage systems without corn residues, half of label rate and full label rate of trifluralin were included for comparison. Incorporated or mulched corn residues significantly reduced weed density and dry weight compared to conventional tillage treatment (control) at both sites. Residue incorporation and mulching plots in combination with 50% of label rate of trifluralin revealed significantly lower weed numbers and dry weight as compared to their respective controls. Soil incorporation and surface mulching of corn residue in combination with 50% rate of trifluralin achieved similar weed control and cowpea grain yield when compared to the 100% trifluralin treatment. Plots amended with corn residue showed greater levels of phenolics. Also, the periods of maximal suppressive effect against the test weed coincided with periods of maximum phenolic content, indicating the possible involvement of phenolics in weed suppression. Combination of allelopathic residues and a reduced rate of herbicides could reduce herbicide usage in agricultural systems while the weed control is not compromised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We assessed and included 11 eligible studies across 5 provinces in South Africa • An inventory of 67 leafy vegetables was generated as source of nutrition and medicine • Bidens pilosa was the most popular leafy vegetable from the 11 eligible studies • Amaranthaceae was the most dominant plant family recorded with 12 leafy vegetables • Phytochemical profiles and biological effects of the leafy vegetables were described Despite the cultural and nutritional importance associated with locally sourced leafy vegetables, they are largely overlooked and underutilized globally. In this review, we provide an appraisal of the ethnobotanical uses, biological and chemical profiles of locally available leafy vegetables in South Africa. A comprehensive search was conducted using various scientific databases and ethnobotanical books, with a timeline from January 2010 to August 2023. This yielded 11 eligible scientific articles that generated an inventory of 67 locally sourced leafy vegetables from 23 plant families. The most mentioned leafy vegetables were Bidens pilosa (8) , Vigna unguiculata (6), Amaranthus hybridus (6), Chenopodium album (5), and Cleome gynandra (5). In terms of plant families, Amaranthaceae (17.9 %), Asteraceae (10.4 %), Cucurbitaceae (11.9 %), Malvaceae (7.4 %), and Urticaceae (5.9 %) were the most represented groups. Based on the ethnobotanical data, these leafy vegetables possess several medicinal uses, with indications for different health conditions affecting humans and livestock. We highlighted the wide range of health benefits of these leafy vegetables, which are linked to their diverse nutrients (e.g., vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber) and phytochemicals. The recorded leafy vegetables are known to exert diverse biological activities and health benefits. Furthermore, the phytochemical profiles revealed the presence of various bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, alkaloids, saponins, and flavonoids, in these locally sourced leafy vegetables. Taken together, the evidence from the existing ethnobotanical surveys, biological activities, and phytochemical profiles revealed the importance of these locally available leafy vegetables for food security, good health, and general well-being in South Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The response of mesophyll conductance (gm) to CO2 plays a key role in photosynthesis and ecosystem carbon cycles under climate change. Despite numerous studies, there is still debate about how gm responds to short‐term CO2 variations. Here we used multiple methods and looked at the relationship between stomatal conductance to CO2 (gsc) and gm to address this aspect. We measured chlorophyll fluorescence parameters and online carbon isotope discrimination (Δ) at different CO2 mole fractions in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.), and wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) leaves. The variable J and Δ based methods showed that gm decreased with an increase in CO2 mole fraction, and so did stomatal conductance. There were linear relationships between gm and gsc across CO2 mole fractions. gm obtained from A‐Ci curve fitting method was higher than that from the variable J method and was not representative of gm under the growth CO2 concentration. gm could be estimated by empirical models analogous to the Ball‐Berry model and the USO model for stomatal conductance. Our results suggest that gm and gsc respond in a coordinated manner to short‐term variations in CO2, providing new insight into the role of gm in photosynthesis modelling. Summary statement: For photosynthesis modelling, the response of gm to short‐term CO2 changes is essential. Using variable J and carbon isotope discrimination methods, we showed that gm decreased with an increase in CO2 mole fraction, which contradicts the assumption of a constant gm in photosynthesis models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Plant Protection & Pathology is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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]

Plants use a variety of physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms to mitigate salt stress impacts. Many techniques, including the application of nanoparticles (NPs), are being used to increase plant stress tolerance. To assess the growth and productivity of Vigna unguiculata L. (cowpea) plants exposed to salt stress, cowpea has been cultivated using different saline water levels and subjected to green synthesized zinc NPs (ZnNPs) and iron NPs (FeNPs) applied via foliar spraying. The cowpea plants that grew under the lowest saline water level showed the best leaf traits, leaf water content per area (LWCA), pods, and seed yields, but when salinity levels increased, the plants' growth and productivity slightly declined. ZnNP and FeNP treatments slow down the degradation of photosynthetic pigments and greatly mitigate the negative effects of salt stress. In both stressed and unstressed plants, ZnNP treatments produced the highest osmoprotectant concentrations (proline, protein, and total carbohydrates). As a result of salt stress, cowpea seeds showed a marked decrease in dry matter and protein content, but ZnNP and FeNP treatments increased it. Conclusively, the results obtained indicated that ZnNPs and FeNPs foliar application to cowpea plants stimulated leaf pigment and polyphenol production, which in turn increased seed dry matter, seed yield, protein content, and the plants' ability to withstand saline stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Science & Technology of Food Industry is the property of Science & Technology of Food Industry Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The study assessed effect of sorghum leaf sheath and extract on the chemical and sensory properties of boiled cowpea. Cowpea seeds, sorghum leaf sheath, salt, pepper and palm oil were purchased from Rumuokoro Market in Port-Harcourt, Rivers State. Materials were sorted, weighed and prepared. Samples were produced using standard methods.Samples were assessed for proximate, energy, mineral, phytochemical content and sensory properties using standard methods of analysis. Data were analyzed using means and standard deviation, analysis of variance and Duncan Multiple Range test. Results show, among others, moisture content was highest (58.27%) in sample boiled with sorghum leaf sheath while ash content did not differ significantly (p>0.05) among the samples and ranged between 2.01% and 2.92%. Cowpea boiled with palm oil had the highest fat (10.53%), energy (237.93 kcal) and lowest protein content (8.84%). Crude fibre differed significantly among the samples and was highest in cowpea boiled with sorghum leaf sheath (1.85%). Carbohydrate varied significantly with cowpea boiled with sorghum leaf sheath extract having the highest (31.13%). Calcium (11.94mg) and zinc (1.74mg) was highest in cowpea boiled with sorghum leaf sheath extract while phosphorus was highest (11.41mg) in cowpea boiled with palm oil. Cowpea boiled with palm oil had the highest values for carotenoid (3.34mg) and alkaloid (7.95%) when compared with other samples. Saponin (8.42%) was highest in cowpea containing sorghum leaf sheath. Boiled cowpea samples varied significantly in their colour, flavour, taste and overall acceptability while texture did not vary significantly. Cowpea boiled with palm oil was the most preferred having higher mean scores for all the sensory attributes. Cowpea boiled with sorghum leaf sheath compared favourably with the one containing palm oil in all sensory attributes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studying the effects of genetic and environmental factors on plant biochemical components helps in selecting the best varieties for the food industry and breeding programs. This study analyzed the nutritional qualities, secondary metabolites, and antioxidant activities of 14 field-grown yardlong beans accessions and how they are affected by differences in pod and seed colors. The analyzed parameters varied significantly among the yardlong bean accessions, with variances ranging from 1.36% in total unsaturated fatty acid content to 51.01% in DPPH• scavenging activity. Accessions YLB4, YLB7, and YLB14 performed the best, showing antioxidant indices of 100.00, 70.10, and 67.88%, respectively. Among these, YLB14 showed a characteristic property, having the highest levels of vitamin C (2.62 mg/g) and omega-6 to omega-3 ratio (2.67). It also had the second highest dietary fiber (21.45%), stearic acid (4.44%), and linoleic acid (40.39%) contents, as well as the lowest thrombogenicity index (0.38). Although cluster and principal component analyses did not clearly separate the yardlong beans based on pod or seed color, analysis of variance revealed that these factors and their interaction had significant effects on total phenol, DPPH• scavenging activity, ABTS•+ scavenging activity, and reducing power. In contrast, the nutritional parameters, except for dietary fiber, were not significantly affected by pod and seed color variations. Therefore, consuming yardlong beans of different pod and seed colors may not affect the overall nutrient intake. In general, this study identified yardlong beans with green pods and black seeds as good sources of antioxidants. Accordingly, further metabolomics and genomics studies are suggested to thoroughly explore their characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a curdlan-producing bacterium was isolated from Cow pea soil and identified as Priestia megaterium based on 16 S rRNA sequencing. To identify the most suitable carbon and nitrogen sources for curdlan production, submerged fermentation studies with different sources was carried out. To enhance the curdlan yield, optimization by one-factor-at-a-time approach was conducted. The optimal fermentation media consisted of 15% (w/v) sucrose, 0.1% (w/v) urea, 0.1% (w/v) KH2PO4, 0.04% (w/v) MgSO4·7H2O, trace elements, initial pH of 7.0 with 10% (v/v) inoculum size and agitation speed of 180 rpm. Kinetics of growth, curdlan yield, sucrose and ammonia depletion were studied for a period of 168 h. Maximum curdlan yield (0.31 g/L) was achieved at 96 h of fermentation. At this point, the fermentation media had an optical density of 9.68, biomass concentration of 4.26 mg/mL, and viable count of 2.4 × 104 CFU/mL. Additionally, the maximum percentage consumption of sucrose and ammonia over 168 h of fermentation were 75 and 62.5%, respectively. Finally, the identity of biopolymer curdlan was validated through characterization techniques such as Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Some characteristic features of curdlan such as the β-1,3-linkage was depicted by the absorption band at 890 cm−1 in FTIR, flaky granules with irregularities as seen in SEM, and thermal degradation between 235 and 350 °C by TGA. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on curdlan production from Priestia megaterium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation was carried out with 53 genotypes of cowpea to study association among yield contributing traits. The genotypes were sown in a randomized block design replicated with three replications at the National Pulse Research Centre, TNAU , Vamban, Pudukkottai, during Kharif,2022. Observations on ten traits were recorded and subjected to statistical analysis. The coefficient of phenotypic differences was substantially greater than the genotypic variation for all the characters under study, showing that the prevailing variation is mainly governed by the genotypic factor and substantial environmental factors. High heritability and genetic advance as percentage of mean were observed for the traits seed yield and 100 seed weight. This showed the role of additive gene action in the inheritance of these traits which gives the best chance of their improvement through simple selection. Association analysis revealed that number of cluster/plant and number of pods/plant had a significant and positive correlation on seed yield. Yield component traits viz., plant height, number of branches/plant, number of pods/cluster, number of pods/plant, 100 seed weight and seed yield were high inter-correlated among themselves. Furthermore, it was observed that the number of pods/plant, pod length, and 100 seed weight had the maximum positive direct effects on seed yield. So direct selection for these three traits could help to improve the seed yield potential of cowpea.

Background. Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) is a thermophilic crop that occupies the third place in the world in terms of cultivation area among leguminous crops. Vegetable cowpea cultivars are successfully cultivated in the open ground in Russia, in its southern regions and the south of the Far East. The creation of new cultivars adapted to cultivation in different regions and suitable for widespread industrial production, is extremely relevant. Materials and methods. The variability of 20 morphological and three phenological traits of six cowpea accessions with different growth habit types and architectonics was assessed in various ecological and geographical conditions at VIR experiment stations (in Astrakhan Province, Primorye Territory and Krasnodar Territory) in 2019-2022. The variability and interrelationships of the traits were estimated using basic and multivariate statistical methods. Results. The analysis revealed a significant influence of the factor complex (genotype/accession, research location) on the variability of traits. Phenological traits, the length of internodes and leaflets depended most strongly on the research location. The range of variation in the number of nodes, branches, peduncles and pods per plant, stem thickness and pod size were determined by the genotype to a larger extent. The range of stem length variability was significantly influenced by the research location and the genotype, though the genotype had a stronger influence. The genotypes responded differently to changes in growing conditions. For most of the studied accessions, an increase in the main stem length was noted in the monsoon climate conditions of the Primorye Territory, for some of them the type of growth habit changed from determinant to indeterminate. In our research, the plant length was positively correlated with the amount of precipitation and with the average relative humidity. Excessive humidity and precipitation had minimal effect only on the cultivar ‘Lyanchihe’, whose plants retained dwarfness and compact architectonics. Factor analysis (principal factors analysis) revealed four factors responsible for the main part of the variance of the analyzed traits. The characteristics of the leaf were combined in the first factor, those of architectonics and time of plant development in the second, traits of the seedling and the juvenile stage in the third, and those of the pod in the fourth factor. These complexes of traits (factors) determined the variability of cowpea in our research. Conclusion. The performed analysis of morphological and phenological traits revealed a significant increase of stem length and changes in plant architectonics under conditions of high relative humidity and a large amount of precipitation. In some cases, even the type of growth habit was changed. The further research on the studied characters variability involving more accessions and the determination of molecular mechanisms that control stability of the growth habit type and length of the stem will allow us to proceed to a more efficient and rapid creation of new cultivars suitable for mechanized cultivation. This is extremely important for the development of new areas by cultivating species, the demand in which as a source of food and feed is increasing in the Russian Federation.

A one-step QuEChERS automated detection technology for 22 pesticides in cowpeas and mangoes was established based on ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). The sample was extracted by acetonitrile containing 1% acetic acid, added with EN extraction salt (anhydrous Mg2SO4, sodium chloride, trisodium citrate dihydrate, disodium hydrogen citrate sesquihydrate) to remove water, and then purified with C18 and graphitized carbon black (GCB). The target analytes were separated by ACQUITY UPLC BEH C18 chromatography column, using 0.01% formic acid aqueous solution (containing 2 mmol/L ammonium formate)-0.01% formic acid methanol as the mobile phase, and determined in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM). The results showed that the 22 pesticides had good linearity in the range of 0.01~25.00 µg/L, with coefficient of determination (R2) higher than 0.994. The limits of detection (LOD, S/N=3) were 0.05~2 µg/kg, and the limits of quantification (LOQ, S/N=10) were 0.1~5 µg/kg. At the spiked levels of 1×LOQ, 2×LOQ, and 10×LOQ, the average recoveries for cowpeas were 70.9%~116.6%, 71.9%~118.3%, and 73.7%~113.7%, respectively, and for mangoes were 70.2%~114.6%, 71.2%~113.7%, and 74.3%~118.5%, respectively. The relative standard deviations for them were all within 20%. The method was successfully applied to the detection of 42 actual samples, and 33 samples detected pesticide residues. This method has high sensitivity and a satisfactory level of automation, effectively reducing human operation steps. It is suitable for the simultaneous detection and accurate quantification of 22 pesticides and their metabolites.

We extend a recently proposed kinetic theory of virus capsid assembly based on Model A kinetics and study the dynamics of the interconversion of virus capsids of different sizes triggered by a quench, that is, by sudden changes in the solution conditions. The work is inspired by in vitro experiments on functionalized coat proteins of the plant virus cowpea chlorotic mottle virus, which undergo a reversible transition between two different shell sizes (T = 1 and T = 3) upon changing the acidity and salinity of the solution. We find that the relaxation dynamics are governed by two time scales that, in almost all cases, can be identified as two distinct processes. Initially, the monomers and one of the two types of capsids respond to the quench. Subsequently, the monomer concentration remains essentially constant, and the conversion between the two capsid species completes. In the intermediate stages, a long-lived metastable steady state may present itself, where the thermodynamically less stable species predominate. We conclude that a Model A based relaxational model can reasonably describe the early and intermediate stages of the conversion experiments. However, it fails to provide a good representation of the time evolution of the state of assembly of the coat proteins in the very late stages of equilibration when one of the two species disappears from the solution. It appears that explicitly incorporating the nucleation barriers to assembly and disassembly is crucial for an accurate description of the experimental findings, at least under conditions where these barriers are sufficiently large. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]