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The identification of crop diversity in today's world is very crucial to ensure adaptation of the crop with changing climate for better productivity as well as food security. Towards this, Hyperspectral Remote Sensing (HRS) is an efficient technique that offers the opportunity to discriminate crop types based on morphological as well as physiological features due to availability of contiguous spectral bands. The current work utilized the benefits of Airborne Visible Infrared Imaging Spectrometer- New Generation (AVIRIS-NG) data and explored the techniques for classification and identification of crop types. The endmembers were identified using the Geo-Stat Endmember Extraction (GSEE) algorithm for pure pixels identification and to generate the spectral library of the different crop types. Spectral feature comparison was done among AVIRIS-NG, Analytical Spectral Device (ASD)-Spectroradiometer and Continuum Removed (CR) spectra. The best-fit spectra obtained with the Reference ASD-Spectroradiometer and Pure Pixel spectral library were then used for crop discrimination using the ten supervised classifiers namely Spectral Angle Mapper (SAM), Spectral Information Divergence (SID), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Minimum Distance Classifier (MDC), Binary Encoding, deep learning-based Convolution Neural Network (CNN) and different algorithms of Ensemble learning such as Tree Bag, AdaBoost (Adaptive Boosting), Discriminant and RUSBoost (Random Under Sampling). In total, nine crop types were identified, namely, wheat, maize, tobacco, sorghum, linseed, castor, pigeon pea, fennel and chickpea. The performance evaluation of the classifiers was made using various metrics like Overall Accuracy, Kappa Coefficient, Precision, Recall and F1 score. The classifier 2D-CNN was found to be the best with Overall Accuracy, Kappa Coefficient, Precision, Recall and F1 score values of 89.065 %, 0.871, 87.565%, 89.541% and 88.678% respectively. The output of this work can be utilized for large scale mapping of crop types at the species level in a short interval of time with high accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Inoculation of AMF improved the growth, cell viability, and yield attributes in Cd stressed plants. • Increased antioxidant activity in Cd stressed plants by AMF stregthened the defensive mechanism in plants. • AMF also have the ability to regulate the stomatal function, and mitigate the formation of reactive oxygen species, and photosynthetic efficiency. An experiment was conducted to investigate the impact of cadmium (Cd) on growth, photosynthetic pigments (total chlorophyll and carotenoids), stress biomarkers (malondialdehyde, MDA; superoxide radicles; cell viability), mineral nutrients (sodium and phosphorus), leave protein content, defence (proline, superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, catalase), stomatal behaviour, and the key enzymes in nitrate absorption (nitrate reductase, NR) and Calvin Cycle (carbonic anhydrase; CA) of chickpea, including and excluding arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus (AMF). The development and physio-biochemical characteristics under study underwent considerable modifications as a result of cadmium stress (50 mg Cd kg−1 soil). By increasing the levels of chlorophyll, carotenoid, CA, and NR activity, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) inoculation was found to be the most effective method for increasing Cd-stress resistance. The negative effects of Cd on the parameters under investigation were lessened by AMF. Malonaldehyde synthesis was enhanced by cadmium stress but decreased by AMF via reducing oxidative stress. The plant's defensive mechanism was strengthened by the increased antioxidant enzyme activity caused by Cd treatment and AMF inoculation. Plants treated with Cd and inoculated with AMF both had higher proline contents, which effectively warded off Cd stress. Fascinatingly, AMF-infected plants showed enhanced growth and yield characteristics, minimal superoxide radicles, regulated cell viability, and functional stomata in leaves. The current result lends support to the biological strategy of using AMF to counteract chickpea alterations brought on by Cd stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pursuing new sources for food production in a context of demographic growth requires achieving a sustainable production model to face the current climate crisis. The biorefinery concept emerges as a technological scheme for the integral processing of renewable resources such as food waste obtained from the processing industry. This research aims to evaluate the potential environmental impacts of the valorisation route of chickpea peel to produce dietary fibre. Coupling process modelling with life cycle assessment approaches allows designing the potential biorefinery platform and identifying factors that may restrict its application in large-scale production. Global warming, particulate matter, eutrophication and ecotoxicity-related, fossil scarcity, among others, were the impact categories analysed with a cradle-to-gate approach. Results showed, for instance, that one kilogram of dietary fibre product emits 7.62 kg CO2 eq, 14.08 g PM2.5 and 4.37 g of P eq. Furthermore, alkaline digestion and bleaching were the most impactful stages in the categories analysed, due to the use of potassium hydroxide and sodium chlorite, respectively. This research contributes to rethink chickpea hulls from the food industry as a by-product towards high value-added products with applicability in the same industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identification of Hard to Cook (HTC) chickpeas in a rapid, non-destructive manner is crucial for the pulse processing industry. This study investigated the potential of near infrared (NIR) hyperspectral imaging (HSI) system to classify chickpeas into HTC and Easy to Cook (ETC) (control) categories. Two types of HTC chickpeas were created using eight different varieties of chickpeas: the first type was created by storing under suboptimal conditions, while the second type was created with chemical treatment. A total of eight hundred sixty-four chickpea seeds ({control- 36; physically hardened-36 seeds; chemically hardened-36 seeds} x 8 varieties) were used in this study. The chickpeas were imaged using a NIR-HSI system in the spectral range of 900-2500 nm. The cooking time of individual chickpea seed was measured using an automated Mattson cooker and the spectral data was correlated with the measured reference cooking time of chickpeas to develop the calibration model. Partial Least Square Discriminant Analysis (PLSDA), Support Vector Classifier (SVC) and Convolutional Neural Network-Attention (CNN-ATT) models was used for model development based on full spectrum and significant wavelengths. The optimal models were obtained using the SVC and CNN-ATT which demonstrated 100% accuracy in classifying the chickpeas into HTC and ETC. Besides, the cooking time of control (ETC) and HTC chickpeas were predicted using One Dimensional Convolutional Neural Network (ID-CNN) with Correlation Coefficient of Prediction (Rp) and Root Mean Square Error of Prediction (RMSEP) values of 0.880 and 0.662 respectively indicating the potential of this approach in developing robust model for cooking time prediction in other pulses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquafaba is the term used for the liquid separated from the cooking of legumes, particularly chickpeas. This novel material has shown remarkable rheological functionalities; therefore, it has transitioned from being a by-product of the industry to a valued additive explored thoroughly in recent years. However, the research carried out on aquafaba has not yet proposed feasible strategies for its industrialization. This review assessed the current production of aquafaba to identify the necessary steps to achieve scalability. This work surveyed the totality of the original research articles dealing with this topic published in SCIE and Scopus-indexed journals. The common points were categorized into material, pre and post-treatments, and cooking. The analysis showed that the sources, composition, and functionality of aquafaba vary greatly. Additionally, although there are strong recommendations, there is no consensus on the legume-to-water ratios and cooking time. After cooking the exploration of the characteristics and functionalities of aquafaba is limited and not well developed yet. Furthermore, its application has been limited to a few food products. Altogether, these findings suggest that, although research on this topic has moved forward in the last few years, there is still much ground to cover to truly make aquafaba a commercial plant-based food additive. • Variability of the legumes influences the inconstant functionality of aquafaba. • Soaking the legumes has shown to be beneficial, although not strictly necessary. • Cooking for 60 min, if legumes were soaked, yields the best functionality. • The functionality can be enhanced by applying high pressure and sonication. • Model products are mostly limited to meringues, mayonnaises, and cakes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photooxidative removal of pharmaceuticals and organic dyes is an effective way to eliminate growing micropollutants. However, photooxidation often results in byproducts as secondary hazardous substances such as phytotoxins. Herein, we found that photooxidation of common antibiotic tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH) over a metal-free 8-hydroxyquinoline (8-HQ) functionalized carbon nitride (CN) photocatalyst significantly reduces the TCH phytotoxic effect. The phytotoxicity test of photocatalytic treated TCH-solution evaluated towards seed growth of Cicer arietinum plant model endowed natural root and shoot growth. This study highlights the conceptual insights in designing of metal-free photocatalyst for environmental remediation. [Display omitted]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) suffers from chilling stress at the reproductive stage (<15 °C) which leads to significant yield loss. This study presents a comprehensive plant response to drought priming and its effect on chilling tolerance during the reproductive stage in two chickpea cultivars PBG1 and PBG5. Lipidome profiling (Fatty acid methyl esters analysis), metabolome profiling (GC-MS based untargeted analysis), fatty acid desaturases and antioxidative gene expression (qRT-PCR) were analyzed to monitor physiological and biochemical events after priming during flowering, podding and seed filling stages. Drought priming alleviated membrane damage and chlorophyll degradation by increasing membrane unsaturated fatty acids (18:3) along with up-regulation of various fatty acid desaturases (CaFADs) genes and antioxidative machinery during flowering and improved seed yield in PBG5. PCA, HCA, and KEGG pathway analysis of 87 identified metabolites showed that metabolites were regulated differently in both cultivars under non-primed and primed conditions. The plant response was more apparent at flowering and podding stages which coincided with chilling temperature (<15 °C). Drought priming stimulated many important genes, especially FADs , antioxidative proteins and accumulation of key metabolites (proline and TCA intermediates) required for defense especially in PBG5. This explains that plant's response to drought priming not only depends on developmental stage, and temperature regime (<15 °C) but also on the genotypic-specificity. [Display omitted] • Drought priming during the vegetative stage can improve the plant's tolerance against chilling stress. • Priming enhances membrane unsaturation and upregulates fatty acid desaturases gene expression. • Priming improves chlorophyll pigment retention and accumulation of osmolytes. • Priming induced defense, related metabolic pathways and improved reproductive functioning. • Plant response to drought priming depends upon exposure, developmental stage, and genotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics are a recent entrant in the list of environmental pollutants, exhibiting great diversity owing to different sizes, surface charges, and morphologies. The present study explores the impact of varied size, surface functionalization, and concentration of polystyrene microplastics (PS MP) on plants. For this study, Cicer seedlings were exposed to two different sizes of PS (1 μm and 12 μm) with three different surface functionalization (plain, carboxylated, and aminated) and at three distinct concentrations (10, 50, and 100 mg/L). The growth and photosynthetic parameters (like pigment content, Hill activity, etc.) along with oxidative stress marker (ROS) and anti-oxidant enzyme activities (like Superoxide dismutase, Catalase, and Peroxidase) were assessed. The results incline towards the idea that with increasing concentration of PS, there was a decline in the growth of the seedlings. There was also a dose-dependent increase in oxidative stress due to the suppression of the action of antioxidant enzymes. The effect was more prominent for 12 μm PS, perhaps due to its larger size and adherence to roots resulting in mechanical damage as deduced from MDA levels in the seedlings. Besides, MP with negative surface charge was comparatively less toxic than uncharged or positively charged PS of 1 μm. Overall, it can be concluded that the impact of MP on plants does not rely on individual characteristics of the particles alone, rather it is a concerted result of various determinants like size, charge, and concentration. [Display omitted] • Phytotoxicity of MPs varies with size, surface functionalization, and concentration. • MPs induce oxidative stress in Cicer. • Negatively charged MP is less toxic than MP with positive or no surface charge of 1 μm. • Larger-sized MP can induce more ROS resulting greater extent of root damage. • The activity of anti-oxidant enzymes suppressed at high concentrations of MPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The study presents chromosome-length genome assemblies of six legume species. • Evolutionary events that shaped the present day legumes are inferred. • Expansion of gene families contributing to unique traits in legumes is explored. • Demonstrated the utility of improved assemblies as better references. Legume crops are an important source of protein and oil for human health and in fixing atmospheric N 2 for soil enrichment. With an objective to accelerate much-needed genetic analyses and breeding applications, draft genome assemblies were generated in several legume crops; many of them are not high quality because they are mainly based on short reads. However, the superior quality of genome assembly is crucial for a detailed understanding of genomic architecture, genome evolution, and crop improvement. Present study was undertaken with an objective of developing improved chromosome-length genome assemblies in six different legumes followed by their systematic investigation to unravel different aspects of genome organization and legume evolution. We employed in situ Hi-C data to improve the existing draft genomes and performed different evolutionary and comparative analyses using improved genome assemblies. We have developed chromosome-length genome assemblies in chickpea, pigeonpea, soybean, subterranean clover, and two wild progenitor species of cultivated groundnut (A. duranensis and A. ipaensis). A comprehensive comparative analysis of these genome assemblies offered improved insights into various evolutionary events that shaped the present-day legume species. We highlighted the expansion of gene families contributing to unique traits such as nodulation in legumes, gravitropism in groundnut, and oil biosynthesis in oilseed legume crops such as groundnut and soybean. As examples, we have demonstrated the utility of improved genome assemblies for enhancing the resolution of " QTL-hotspot " identification for drought tolerance in chickpea and marker-trait associations for agronomic traits in pigeonpea through genome-wide association study. Genomic resources developed in this study are publicly available through an online repository, 'Legumepedia'. This study reports chromosome-length genome assemblies of six legume species and demonstrates the utility of these assemblies in crop improvement. The genomic resources developed here will have significant role in accelerating genetic improvement applications of legume crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, changes in membrane fatty acid (FA) composition and damage indices contents as well as the transcript patterns of carbonyl-detoxifying genes were evaluated in two chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) genotypes, cold-tolerant Sel96th11439 and cold-sensitive ILC533 under cold stress (CS; 4 °C). During CS, H 2 O 2 and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents increased (by 47% and 57%, respectively) in the sensitive genotype, while these contents remained unchanged in the tolerant genotype. In tolerant plants, higher content of linoleic, linolenic, unsaturated FAs (UFAs), total FAs and double bond index (DBI) (by 23, 21, 19, 17 and 9%, respectively) was observed at 6 days after stress (DAS) compared to sensitive plants, which, along with alterations of the damage indices, indicate their enhanced tolerance to CS. Compared with the sensitive genotype, less lipoxygenase (LOX) activity (by 59%) in the tolerant genotype was accompanied by decreased MDA and increased levels of UFAs and DBI during CS, particularly at 6 DAS. Upregulation of aldehyde dehydrogenase and aldo-keto reductase genes (by 9- and 10-fold, respectively) at 1 DAS, along with the enhanced transcript levels of aldehyde reductase and 2-alkenal reductase (by 3- and 14.7-fold, respectively) at 6 DAS were accompanied by increased UFAs and reduced MDA contents in the tolerant genotype. Overall, the results suggest that cold tolerance in chickpea was partly associated with regulation of membrane FA compositions and the potential metabolic networks involved in synthesis and degradation of carbonyl compounds. • Cold responses in chickpea were related to stress-responsive genes and pathways. • Cold tolerance was related to the higher content of USFAs and relative activity of LOX. • Cold could enhance the biosynthesis of membrane FAs particularly in tolerant genotype. • Carbonyl-detoxifying genes could enhance cold tolerance through maintaining USFAs. • The late responses may be of greater significance for cold tolerance development in chickpea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris (Foc) is an ascomycete fungal pathogen that significantly limits chickpea productivity. • Foc take up substantial amounts of water, minerals, and photosynthetic products directly from the host plant. • Cell wall degrading enzymes (CWDEs) and toxins are mechanisms of the pathogen pathogenicity. • The host, chickpea defend against Foc infections using morphological and chemical approaches. • Effective quarantine and certified pathogen-free seed is essential to improve chickpea productivity and management of Foc. Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris (Foc) is an ascomycete fungal pathogen that significantly limits chickpea productivity; causing annual yield losses of a 10 to 15%, and escalates to 100% when temperature and humidity are favourable. This review aims to assess the global scientific evidence on the distribution and pathogenicity, host responses, and management options of Foc using international databases and search engines. Globally, eight physiological races of the pathogen (0, 1A, 1B/ C, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6) are reported. According to molecular evidences, high levels of DNA polymorphisms in Foc have been observed in the areas where the pathogen exists. After infection by Foc, gene encoding cell wall degrading enzymes (CWDEs) and toxins are detected in various susceptible chickpea genotypes. The chickpea plant, in turn, activates a variety of defense signaling and responses, among which papilla formations, suberization, reaction oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, catalase (CAT), peroxidases (POXs), phenolics, β-,3 glucanase activity, chitinase, and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase defensive enzymes have been detected. This review also assesses the management options for controlling this wilt disease. In this regard, it has been established that utilizing predominantly resistant cultivars in combination with an integrated management approach is more recommended. These approaches involve solarisation (2 weeks) of farmlands, organic manure application, burning or igniting host material, and adjustment of sowing dates have been found critical in limiting and lowering pathogen progression. In conclusion, identification and use of effective quarantine and certified pathogen-free seeds are essential for the management of Fusarium wilt and improving the productivity of chickpea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chickpea seeds were germinated using 96 mg/L of sodium selenite (Na2SeO3) dissolved in the soaking water and germinated for 48 h. The total protein (PT), glutelin (Glu), albumin (Alb) and globulin (Glo) were extracted. Total selenium, electrophoretic profiles, and emulsifying capacity were determined in the fractions. Emulsions were formulated by sonication with 4% protein (Glu), 56% water and 40% olive oil. The control emulsion was produced with tween 20 instead of the protein. The zeta potential (ZP), polydispersity index (PDI), and droplet size were evaluated. The cellular antioxidant activity of the emulsions was evaluated in the Caco-2 cellline. Glu showed the highest Se accumulation followed by Alb and Glo. The protein profile was similar in all treatments. The emulsifying capacity of selenized Glu and Alb significantly increased by 8.6% and 7.8%, respectively. The selenized Glu (EGluSe) and non-selenized (EGlu) emulsions were more stable compared to the control emulsion (ETw). Highest ZP was observed in EGluSe (-16.27 mV). EGluSe showed the highest cellular antioxidant activity (CAA), being 11% higher than the observed for EGlu. Glutenin emulsions can be used in food or cosmetics to counteract cellular oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The susceptible genotypes exhibited the highest levels of lipid peroxidation and lesser magnitude of proline increase than the tolerant ones during reproductive cold stress in chickpea. • Proline and pollen load can be used as prominent phenotypic markers in screening for cold tolerance in chickpea breeding programme. • The breeding lines GL29183-P1, GL29183-P2 and GL29183-P3 and cultivar PBG5 can be extensively evaluated in cold prone areas to identify any line for release for general cultivation. Cold stress is one of the most important abiotic stresses affecting chickpea production in Northwestern India. Further, the short-duration varieties are more susceptible to cold injury as their reproductive phase coincides with the cold spell of this zone. So, enhancing the cold tolerance of the host plant is the only viable option to resolve this issue in chickpea. The present study involved a set of 13 advanced breeding lines (with differential cold sensitivity) and three reference varieties (GPF2, PBG5, and PBG7) of chickpea which were exposed to cold stress at the reproductive stage under field conditions during the winters of 2019–20 and 2020–21. Various physiological and biochemical parameters such as proline, electrolyte leakage, photosynthetic pigments, lipid peroxidation, and 2, 2-diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) activity were measured before and after exposure to cold to delineate the mechanism of tolerance in these genotypes. Significant genotypic variations were observed for the above-mentioned traits in both years. The genotypes GL27059 P2, GL 28202-P1, and GL28202-P2 exhibited the highest lipid peroxidation and lesser magnitude of proline increase during reproductive cold stress on a pooled basis. These genotypes performed poorly for yield traits like pod set percent, filled pods plant –1, total seeds/ plant, and seed yield/plant and hence were susceptible to cold stress. Further, a significant reduction in reproductive function of male gametophyte i.e. pollen viability and pollen load under cold stress was also observed in these susceptible genotypes. In contrast, tolerant line GL29183-P2 had significantly more pollen load and pollen viability contributing to better yield performance (viz., higher flowers/plant, pods/plant, and maximum pod set percent) among the studied advanced breeding lines. Based upon the pooled analysis, the reference variety PBG5 outperformed in yield attributes i.e., total flower/ plant, total filled pods/plant, and had a significantly higher yield than GL29183 under cold stress at the early reproductive stage. A significant increment in levels of proline (125–160%) on exposure to cold spell was observed in genotypes, GL29183 and PBG5, which contribute toward cold tolerance. Thus, an increase in proline along with maintenance of pollen load can be used as prominent phenotypic markers in screening for cold tolerance at the reproductive stage in chickpea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, we developed new functional food materials from chickpea (Cicer arietinum) milk (CM) with desirable nutritional value, health functions, and rheology to mitigate lifestyle and age-related diseases. The anti-oxidant, anti-glycation, and bile acid-lowering properties of CM fermented with the lactic acid bacteria Lactiplantibacillus pentosus Himuka-SU5 (LpFCM) and Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis Amami-SU1 (LcFCM) were determined in vitro. L. pentosus Himuka-SU5 and L. lactis Amami-SU1 were found to lower the pH from 6.4 to 4.7 at 12 and 48 h, respectively. The lactic acid concentration in LpFCM and LcFCM was 6.9 and 4.4 mg/mL, respectively. Both starters were found to degrade the dissolved proteins in CM, and L. lactis Amami-SU1 produced ammonia. Though the total phenolic content was slightly lower in LpFCM and LcFCM than in unfermented CM, O 2 − radical-scavenging capacity, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical-scavenging capacity, and Fe-reducing power were high in both LpFCM and LcFCM. Anti-glycation in a bovine serum albumin-fructose model and the bile acid-lowering capacities of CM were distinctly increased following fermentation. Based on the results of the present study, we inferred that fermented CM can be considered a desirable food material to prevent and ameliorate chronic lifestyle diseases, particularly in the elderly. [Display omitted] • Chickpea milk (CM) was fermented with L. pentosus (LpFCM) and l. lactis (LcFCM). • Compared with unfermented CM, O 2 - radical-scavenging capacity was high in LpFCM and LcFCM. • The anti-glycation capacity was also high in LpFCM and LcFCM. • The bile acid-lowering capacity of CM was also increased following fermentation. • Ammonia was generated in LcFCM but not in LpFCM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to obtain curcumin encapsulated nanofibers as a potential food package and analyze physical properties and functional attributes, including antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Due to their non-toxic and biodegradable characteristics, chickpea flour/PEO were used as an external support matrix for curcumin. In this context, the effects of curcumin and heating methods (conventional and microwave) on solution and film properties were investigated. The SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope) images showed that the fiber morphology of the microwave-treated samples was as smooth as those of conventionally-treated ones. Neither the addition of curcumin nor the different heat treatments had any significant impact on the water vapor permeability of the samples. However, the addition of curcumin shifted the onset degradation temperatures of the samples (T5% by nearly 20 °C. Both the DPPH (2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and ABTS (2,2'-Azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt) scavenging activities of the curcumin-containing and microwave-treated (CUR/MW) samples were higher than those of the conventionally-treated (CUR/CON) samples. Although CUR/MW film had an antimicrobial effect on E.coli (ATCC 11229), it did not have any effect on S.aureus (ATCC 43300). Therefore, microwave heating could be preferred instead of conventional heating owing to the former's time and energy efficiency characteristics and its higher level of contribution to film characteristics. It should also be noted that the addition of curcumin improved the functionality of the nanofiber films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic is a hazardous metalloid that causes detrimental effects on plant growth and metabolism. Plants accumulate arsenic in edible parts that consequently enter the food chain leading to many health problems. Metal tolerant plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) ameliorate heavy metal toxicity. In this study, the effect of arsenic (As5+) and the role of PGPB Pseudomonas citronellolis (PC) in mitigating As5+ toxicity and associated metabolic alterations in chickpea were assessed. Five chickpea varieties (PBG1, GPF2, PDG3, PDG4 and PBG5) were evaluated for arsenic accumulation, translocation, and its interference with metabolic and defense processes. As5+ (40 mg kg−1) interfered with plant metabolism and enhanced the antioxidative and carbohydrate metabolizing enzyme's activity but PC treatment maintained the activity at par with control. PC also facilitated the accumulation of As5+ in the root system and restricted its translocation to the shoot. Further, to map the metabolic changes, Gas chromatography Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS) based metabolite profiling and gene expression analysis (qRT-PCR) were performed in the best and worst-performing chickpea varieties (PBG1 and PBG5). 48 metabolites of various metabolic pathways (amino acid, carbohydrate, and fatty acid) were altered in As5+ and PC treatment. Gene expressions showed correlation with biochemical analysis of the antioxidative enzymes and carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes while PC treatment improved chlorophyll biosynthesis enzyme CaDALA expression in As5+ treated plants. Therefore, PC mitigates As5+ toxicity by restricting it in the roots thereby maintaining the cellular homeostasis under As5+ stress in chickpeas. [Display omitted] • Arsenic treatment triggers antioxidative and carbohydrates metabolizing enzymes. • Pseudomonas citronellolis (PC) inoculation normalizes antioxidative and carbohydrate enzymes. • 48 metabolites of various metabolic pathways altered in As and PC treatment. • PC restricted As5+ translocation to shoot and accumulated at the root zone. • PC maintained cellular homeostasis by reducing As toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Foldscope is an efficient, low-cost, lightweight, and portable microscope. • Foldscope is an alternative for a conventional compound microscope for monitoring of the pollination process. • Foldscope can be used for field-level real-time in vivo monitoring of the pollination process. An efficient, low-cost, lightweight, and portable paper microscope can be used to monitor real-time in vivo pollination, which is not feasible with a conventional compound microscope. The advantages of paper microscopes (foldscopes) remain unexplored for in vivo field-oriented assessment of pollination. In this study, experiments were carried out to calibrate and validate the capability of foldscopes to investigate in vitro pollen traits and to understand the feasibility of using in real-time in vivo field-level investigations. Comparison of optical images of pollen morphological traits (color, size, and shape) of diverse plant species (including crops) captured using a foldscope and a compound microscope revealed little to no differences. In addition, foldscopes were calibrated to monitor and estimate in vitro pollen viability in wheat, sorghum, sunflower, chickpea, soybean, and periwinkle and to determine in vitro pollen germination in chickpea, maize, and periwinkle. Pollen tube growth was observed by time-lapse imaging of pollen from periwinkle. The foldscope efficiently captured genotypic variation in in vitro pollen germination of twelve chickpea genotypes under drought revealing the possibility of foldscopes as a tool for field level, real-time in vivo monitoring of pollination under drought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Chickpea cell wall integrity affects starch bioaccessibility, digestion, and postprandial metabolism. •.Preserving cellular structure of processed chickpeas improves blood glucose homeostasis. •.Rheological tests provide insight of chickpea hummus properties for future studies of amylolysis. Slowing the rate of carbohydrate digestion leads to low postprandial glucose and insulin responses, which are associated with reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. There is increasing evidence that food structure plays a crucial role in influencing the bioaccessibility and digestion kinetics of macronutrients. The aims of this study were to compare the effects of two hummus meals, with different degrees of cell wall integrity, on postprandial metabolic responses in relation to the microstructural and rheological characteristics of the meals. A randomised crossover trial in 15 healthy participants was designed to compare the acute effect of 27 g of starch, provided as hummus made from either intact chickpea cells (ICC) or ruptured chickpea cells (RCC), on postprandial metabolic responses. In vitro starch digestibility, microstructural and rheological experiments were also conducted to evaluate differences between the two chickpea hummus meals. Blood insulin and GIP concentrations were significantly lower (P < 0.02, P < 0.03) after the consumption of the ICC meal than the meal containing RCC. In vitro starch digestion for 90 min was slower in ICC than in RCC. Microscopic examination of hummus samples digested in vitro for 90 min revealed more intact chickpea cells in ICC compared to the RCC sample. Rheological experiments showed that fracture for ICC hummus samples occurred at smaller strains compared to RCC samples. However, the storage modulus for ICC was higher than RCC, which may be explained by the presence of intact cells in ICC. Food structure can affect the rate and extent of starch bioaccessibility and digestion and may explain the difference in the time course of metabolic responses between meals. The rheological properties were measured on the two types of meals before ingestion, showing significant differences that may point to different breakdown mechanisms during subsequent digestion. This trial was registered at clinicaltrial.gov as NCT03424187. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the diversification of the pet food industry and increasing market demand, the inclusion of plant protein in companion animal diets has become of interest. Pulses, commonly seen in grain-free diets, are high in protein and could serve as an alternative source of animal-based protein. There has been research on the ingredient about nutrient profiles and effects on canine health. However, little is known about the amino acid availability when pulses are incorporated into diets. In addition, there is lacking in knowledge about the effect of extrusion processing on protein quality and the possible interaction between processing and ingredients. Therefore, the study was conducted to determine the effect of extrusion and pulses on amino acid digestibility and protein quality. Eight grain-free diet formulations were designed: chicken byproduct meal diet (CON), chicken slurry diet (SLR), chicken slurry + yellow pea diet (SLR+YP), yellow pea diet (YP), green lentil diet (GL), garbanzo bean diet (GB), chicken slurry + taurine diet (SLR+TAU), and chicken slurry + yellow pea + taurine diet (SLR+YP+TAU). Two types of extruders were used: single screw and twin screw extruder. Diet samples were taken at 3 processing time points: raw ingredients, at the end of the preconditioner, and at the end of the extruder. The resulting 48 diet samples were analyzed for chemical composition and fed to cecectomized roosters (n=4/treatment) to determine standardized ileal amino acid digestibility and Digestible Indispensable Amino Acid Score (DIAAS)-like values. Even though the diets were mostly similar in chemical composition, methionine content was lower in diets containing yellow pea and green lentil. Extrusion processing did not have negative effect on natural or synthetic taurine in the diets. Preconditioning and extrusion also increased amino acid digestibility and DIAAS-like values in most diets, as processed diets could be considered well-digested and of good protein quality. According to reference protein sources, tryptophan and methionine were the most limiting amino acids in all treatment diet samples. In conclusion, grain-free diet formulation could result in good protein quality in canine diets and extrusion processing increased amino acid digestibility and protein quality. • Amino acid digestibility increases after extrusion compared with raw ingredients. • Extrusion did not compromise natural or synthetic taurine content in canine diets. • Protein quality in pet food increases after extrusion compared with raw ingredients. • Extruded grain-free canine diets with 400 g/kg (as fed) pulses resulted in good protein quality. • Methionine and tryptophan were the most limiting amino acids in test grain-free diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Chickpea protein attains 96.75 % succinylation at 4 mM succinic anhydride. • Succinylation significantly reduced thermal stability of chickpea protein. • Succinylation altered the lysine content to a large extent. • Dual modification enhanced chickpea protein techno functional properties. • Dual modification improved the protein bactericidal activity. Chickpea protein, a valuable plant-based source, offers versatile applications, yet the impact of modifications like succinylation and ultrasonication on its properties remains unclear. This study explored dual succinylation and ultrasonication modification to enhance its functionality and application. Modified chickpea protein with a degree of succinylation of 96.75 %, showed enhanced water holding capacity 39.83 %, oil holding capacity 54.02 %, solubility 7.20 %, and emulsifying capacity 23.17 %, compared to native protein. Despite reduced amino acid content (64.50 %), particularly lysine, succinylation increased sulfhydryl by 1.74 %, reducing hydrophobicity (Ho) by 41.87 % and causing structural changes. Ultrasonication further reduced particle size by 82.57 % and increased zeta potential and amino acid content (57.47 %). The dual-modified protein exhibited a non-significant increase in antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (25.93 ± 1.36 mm) compared to the native protein (25.28 ± 1.05 mm). In conclusion, succinylation combined with ultrasonication offers a promising strategy to enhance chickpea protein's physicochemical properties for diverse applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigated the impacts of repeated (RDH) and continuous dry heat (CDH) treatments on the physicochemical, structural, and in vitro digestion properties of chickpea starch. The results of SEM and CLSM showed that more fissures and holes appeared on the surface of granules as the treated time of CDH and the circles of RDH increased, both of which made the starch sample much easier to break down by digestive enzymes. Moreover, the fissures and holes of starch granules treated by CDH were more obvious than those of RDH. The XRD and FT-IR results suggested that the crystal type remained C-type, and the relative crystallinity and R 1047/1022 of the chickpea starch decreased after dry heat treatments. In addition, a marked decline in the pasting viscosity and gelatinization temperature of chickpea starches was found with dry heat treatments. Moreover, the increased enzyme accessibility of starch was fitted as suggested by the increased RDS content and digestion rate. This study provided basic data for the rational design of chickpea starch-based foods with nutritional functions. • Dry heat treatments affected the properties of chickpea starch. • More fissures appeared on the surface of dry-heated chickpea starch granules. • Dry heat treatments decreased the pasting viscosity of chickpea starch. • The relative crystallinity of dry-heated chickpea starch decreased. • Dry heat treatments caused changes in vitro digestibility of chickpea starch. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Glycation only occurred in the dry-heated soy protein sample. • Wet heating increased in vitro infant digestion, while dry heating decreased it. • 29 T-cell epitopes and 27 B-cell epitopes were predicted in the digests. • Cross-reactive epitopes were predicted between soy and other legume proteins. • Heating and digestion time may modulate peptide-induced immune responses. During production of soy-based infant formula, soy protein undergoes heating processes. This study investigated the differential impact of heating modes on the immunogenic potential of peptides in soy protein digests. Wet or dry heating was applied, followed by in vitro gastrointestinal infant digestion. The released peptides were analyzed by LC-MS/MS. Bioinformatics tools were utilized to predict and identify potential linear B-cell and T-cell epitopes, as well as to explore cross-reactivity with other legumes. Subsequently, the peptide intensities of the same potential epitope across different experimental conditions were compared. As a result, we confirmed the previously observed enhancing effect of wet heating on infant digestion and inhibitory effect of dry heating. A total of 8,546 peptides were detected in the digests, and 6,684 peptides were with a score over 80. Among them, 29 potential T-cell epitopes and 27 potential B-cell epitopes were predicted. Cross-reactivity between soy and other legumes, including peanut, pea, chickpea, lentil, kidney bean, and lupine, was also detected. Overall, heating and digestion time could modulate the potential to trigger peptide-induced immune responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Dual modifications improve mineral binding efficiency in the protein-iron complex. • The dual-modified protein complex exhibits increased thermal stability. • Dual modification boosts mineral bioavailability, ferritin, cellular transport, retention, and uptake. • Dual modification enhances protein-iron complex functionality. The research aimed to evaluate the effect of ultrasonication and succinylation on the functional, iron binding, physiochemical, and cellular mineral uptake efficacy of chickpea protein concentrate. Succinylation resulted in significant improvements in the water-holding capacity (WHC) (25.47 %), oil-holding capacity (OHC) (31.38 %), and solubility (5.80 %) of the chickpea protein-iron complex. Mineral bioavailability significantly increased by 4.41 %, and there was a significant increase in cellular mineral uptake (64.64 %), retention (36.68 %), and transport (27.96 %). The ferritin content of the succinylated chickpea protein-iron complex showed a substantial increase of 66.31%. Furthermore, the dual modification approach combining ultrasonication and succinylation reduced the particle size of the protein-iron complex with a substantial reduction of 83.25 %. It also resulted in a significant enhancement of 51.5 % in the SH (sulfhydryl) content and 48.92 % in the surface hydrophobicity. Mineral bioavailability and cellular mineral uptake, retention, and transport were further enhanced through dual modification. In terms of application, the addition of single and dual-modified chickpea protein-iron complex to a fruit-based smoothie demonstrated positive acceptance in sensory attributes. Overall, the combined approach of succinylation and ultrasonication to the chickpea protein-iron complex shows a promising strategy for enhancing the physiochemical and techno-functional characteristics, cellular mineral uptake, and the development of vegan food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this research was evaluation of the influence of distance between zwitterionic monomer ions on the performance of superabsorbents. For this purpose, two zwitterionic monomers 4-(3-aminopropyl) amino-4-oxo-2-butenoic acid (APOB) and 4-(6-aminohexyl) amino-4-oxo-2-butenoic acid (AHOB) were prepared and applied for synthesis of two new superabsorbents through graft copolymerization onto hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) in the presence of acrylic acid (AA). In synthesis of superabsorbents factors such as the highest water absorbency capacity, absorbency rate, gel strength, and environmental problems should be resolved or improved. The results demonstrated that the water absorbency capacity and rate parameters (τ) of HEC-g-p(AA-co-APOB) and HEC-g-p(AA-co-AHOB) in distilled water were 986.62, 664.38 g/g, and 98.04, 140.84 min, respectively. The biodegradability of HEC-g-p(AA-co-APOB) was approximately 4 times more than HEC-g-p(AA-co-AHOB). However, based on the rheological analyses (G'/G″) HEC-g-p(AA-co-AHOB) was stronger than the other. Additionally, studies of water retention on soil containing HEC-g-p(AA-co-AHOB) superabsorbent (soil with 0.25 wt% material) showed that the after 30 days has ≤5 % water while soil in the absence of superabsorbent after 10 days completely dried. Studies of the growth of plants in soil demonstrated in the presence of HEC-g-p(AA-co-AHOB) the average length of shoots was 36 cm while without superabsorbent were 25 cm. [Display omitted] • Today, one of the most critical challenges in the world is water shortage • The role of the distance between the anion and the cation of the monomer in the amount of water absorption. • The role of structure in the rate of water absorbency. • Easy polymerization conditions. • Excellent grafting ratio and add-on percentage. • Good biodegradability with a structure with less carbon number. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The individual nitrogen (N) contribution from above-ground plant residue (AGR P) and total below-ground residuals (BGR T) to a subsequent wheat crop remains poorly explored. The need to understand this dynamic is crucial for optimizing crop yield and soil nutrient management. This study aimed to discern the individual N contributions from AGR P and BGR T to a succeeding wheat crop and understand the implications of various grain legume residues on these contributions. A four-year field study consisting of two 2-year grain legume–cereal cropping sequences was conducted in Saskatoon, SK, Canada. The grain legumes were chickpea, faba bean, lentil, and field pea, with spring wheat grown as the reference crop in 2014 and 2016. Each plot was split into quadrants with one quadrant receiving 15N-urea and the other three receiving non-labeled (natural abundance, NA) urea in spring of the pulse phase. After pulse harvest, 15N-AGR P was swapped with NA-AGR P when returned to the field, resulting in sub-plots with 15N-AGR P /NA-BGR T and NA-AGR P /15N-BGR T combinations. In 2015 and 2017 all plots were planted with spring wheat and were fertilized based on soil mineral N measurements and target yields. One NA quadrant received 15N-urea during the cereal phase to track the fate of fertilizer N versus legume N. Grain legume residue species did not affect the seed yield of the subsequent wheat crop. However, wheat grown on lentil and pea residue required less N fertilizer than other residues. Over the five tested residues, BGR T (roots, rhizodeposits, residual fertilizer, and soil) was the largest N source, accounting for 70–91% of wheat N uptake, which surpassed the combination of the contribution from AGR P (1–11% of wheat N uptake) and fertilizer (5–21% of the wheat N uptake). Among BGR components, soil was the main N contributor to subsequent wheat. The N recovery rates for the wheat crop were below 9% for AGR P , 18% for BGR T , and 26% for fertilizer N. Below-ground residue, particularly the soil, plays a pivotal role in regulating N supply to the succeeding wheat crop, overshadowing contributions from AGR and fertilizer. This research underscores the significance of BGR, especially the soil, in N management for subsequent crops. Recognizing these dynamics can help tailor crop residue management strategies and optimize soil nutrient supply for subsequent crops. • Quantified N contribution from above- and below-ground residues for five crops. • Lentil and pea residues enhance wheat N uptake due to rapid below-ground residue decomposition. • BGR, including roots and soil, is the primary N source (70–91%). • Above-ground residue provides limited N supply (1–11%). • Emphasizes BGR's pivotal role in sustainable N supply to crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed at preparing chitosan (CHI) composites with surface active chickpea protein (CP) showing better eugenol (EUG) retention and sustained release capacity than pristine CHI films. For this purpose, ionic complexation of CHI with CP (CHI:CP ratio = 2:1, w/w) in the presence of EUG at pH 5.0 was achieved using mechanical homogenization alone (H M) or in combination with ultrasonic homogenization (H M -H US). The H M -H US treatment provided better solubility of CP (4.4-fold), increased emulsified EUG in film-forming solutions, and denser films than H M treatment. The composite films obtained using H M -H US (FLM CHI-CP-EUG /H M -H US) retained 1.2–1.4-fold higher EUG after drying, and showed almost 2-fold slower EUG release in air at room temperature than composite films prepared by H M , and control CHI films prepared by H M (FLM CHI-EUG /H M) or H M -H US (FLM CHI-EUG /H M -H US). The FLM CHI-CP-EUG /H M -H US films also showed better moisture barrier and mechanical properties than other films. The developed films were proved in a challenging coating application with onions. Escherichia coli and Listeria innocua counts of inoculated and FLM CHI-CP-EUG /H M -H US (average coating thickness = 4.5 ± 1.3 μm) coated onions were significantly lower than those of uncoated (2.8 and 3.8 log) and FLM CHI /H M -H US (1.4 and 1.3 log) coated onions after 5-days at room temperature. FLM CHI-CP-EUG /H M -H US coating also reduced percentage of sprouted onions from 30 to 10% during storage. EUG odor of coated onions could not have been detected by 80% of panelists after 4 weeks. Compositing with CP boosts the performance of essential oil loaded CHI films by enabling use of film matrix as an encapsulant. [Display omitted] • Chitosan-chickpea protein composite films were developed for delivery of eugenol. • Ultrasonication solubilized chickpea protein and enhanced emulsification of eugenol. • Composite films showed better antimicrobial and antisprouting activity than chitosan films. • Compositing and sonication improved mechanical and moisture barrier properties of films. • Chitosan-chickpea composite coatings outperformed chitosan coatings tested on onions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global sustainability and health consciousness awakening have contributed to the rise of legume proteins, but the poor emulsion stability of legume proteins limits their application. Herein, cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) isolated from citrus peels were used to improve the stability of pea isolate protein, chickpea isolate protein, and soybean isolate protein emulsions. Results showed that CNFs extracted from citrus peels could improve the interfacial properties of legume proteins via non-covalent interaction. The addition of CNFs could increase interfacial tension and contact angle compared to the legume protein alone. CNFs resulted in the formation of homogeneous emulsions with smaller particle sizes as well as an increase in the viscosity of the emulsions. Meanwhile, the stability of legume protein/CNFs complex emulsions showed significant advantages over single legume protein emulsions in terms of long-term storage, centrifugation, salt ions, and high temperature. Furthermore, legume protein/CNFs emulsions have a lower rate of lipid digestion. These results revealed that CNFs have promising potential for improving legume protein emulsion stability and retarding lipolysis, which provides a theoretical basis for advancing the use of legume proteins. [Display omitted] • Citrus peels are a potential source of sustainable cellulose nanofibers (CNFs). • Non-covalent interaction force exists between CNFs and legume protein. • CNFs impact the stability and digestive properties of legume protein-based emulsions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Ultrasound treatment (UT) has negligible effect on whole chickpea structure. • UT enhances digestibility of macronutrients (MN) within intact chick pea cells (ICC) • UT causes minimal structural changes to starch and protein within ICC. • Change in Cell-wall structure is major cause for increased MN digestibility. Ultrasound processing is an emerging green technology that has the potential for wider application in the food processing industry. While the effects of ultrasonication on isolated macromolecules such as protein and starch have been reported, the effects of physical barriers on sonication on these macro-molecules, for example inside whole seed, tissue or cotyledon cells, have mostly been overlooked. Intact chickpea cells were subjected to sonication with different ultrasound processing times, and the effects of sonication on the starch and protein structure and digestibility were studied. The digestibility of these macronutrients significantly increased with the extension of processing time, which, however was not due to the molecular degradation of starch or protein but related to damage to cell wall macro-structure with increasing sonication time, leading to enhanced enzyme accessibility. Through this study, it is demonstrated that ultrasound processing has least effect on whole food structure, for example, whole seeds but can modulate the nutrient bioavailability without changing the properties of the macronutrients in seed fractions e.g. intact cells, offering new scientific knowledge on effect of ultrasound in whole foods at various length scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphorus (P), a macronutrient, plays key roles in plant growth, development, and yield. Phosphate (Pi) transporters (PHTs) and PHOSPHATE1 (PHO1) are central to Pi acquisition and distribution. Potentially, PHO1 is also involved in signal transduction under low P. The current study was designed to identify and functionally characterize the PHO1 gene family in chickpea (CaPHO1s). Five CaPHO1 genes were identified through a comprehensive genome-wide search. Phylogenetically, CaPHO1s formed two clades, and protein sequence analyses confirmed the presence of conserved domains. CaPHO1s are expressed in different plant organs including root nodules and are induced by Pi-limiting conditions. Functional complementation of atpho1 mutant with three CaPHO1 members, CaPHO1 , CaPHO1;like, and CaPHO1;H1, independently demonstrated their role in root to shoot Pi transport, and their redundant functions. To further validate this, we raised independent RNA-interference (RNAi) lines of CaPHO1 , CaPHO1;like , and CaPHO1;H1 along with triple mutant line in chickpea. While single gene RNAi lines behaved just like WT, triple knock-down RNAi lines (capho1/like/h1) showed reduced shoot growth and shoot Pi content. Lastly, we showed that CaPHO1s are involved in root nodule development and Pi content. Our findings suggest that CaPHO1 members function redundantly in root to shoot Pi export and root nodule development in chickpea. • PHOSPHATE1 (PHO1) is a conserved plant protein pivotal in mediating root to shoot Pi export. • CaPHO1 family members expressed differentially in vegetative, reproductive tissues and root nodules. • CaPHO1 , CaPHO1;like , and CaPHO1;H1 are low Pi responsive and restore the growth defects of atpho1 mutant. • CaPHO1 , CaPHO1;like , and CaPHO1;H1 function redundantly in chickpea for Pi export and root nodulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Combined heating and HPH induced an additive effect in improving the solubility of CP. • Heating + HPH promoted the formation of small-sized soluble protein aggregates. • Heating + HPH induced a more unfolded and flexible colloidal structure. • Heating + HPH reinforced the disulfide cross-linking in the 11S subunits. • The results are attractive for improving functionalities of plant-based proteins. Chickpea protein (CP) is a promising plant protein ingredient, but the poor solubility has limited its broad application. In this study, heating followed by high-pressure homogenization (HPH) was used to improve the solubility of CP. The results showed that combined heat (80℃, 30 min) and HPH (80 MPa, 2 cycles) treatment exhibited an additive effect in improving the solubility of CP. This improvement could be attributed to the dissociation and the rearrangement of large insoluble protein aggregates into small-sized soluble protein aggregates, the increased exposure of hydrophobic residues and reactive sulfhydryl groups, the transformation of α-helices to β-sheets and β-turns. Moreover, the 11S subunits of CP could form reinforced disulfide covalent cross-links under heating + HPH, which may provide steric hindrance preventing the reassembly of large protein bodies. This work proposes an interesting approach to enhance the physicochemical properties of CP for tailoring techno-functional plant protein ingredients in food formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed to characterize and compare the physicochemical properties of four pulse starches: bean, chickpea, lentil, and pea. Chemical proximate analysis, elemental composition, morphological grain characterization, crystalline structure, thermal analysis, FTIR analysis, and pasting properties were conducted. The proximate analysis shows that these starches have low fat, mineral, and protein content but high amylose values ranging from 29 to 36 % determined by colorimetry. Despite the high amylose content, the starches did not exhibit the typical behavior of an amylose-rich starch, with high peak viscosity and low breakdown and setback. It was found that this behavior was likely due to the large granule size of the ellipsoidal, spherical, and kidney-shaped granules and the high content of some minerals such as Na, Mg, K, Fe, Mn, P, and Si. The study also found that all pulse starches simultaneously contain monoclinic and hexagonal crystals, making them C-type starches. The findings were verified through the Rietveld analyses of X-ray diffraction patterns and differential scanning calorimetry, in which bimodal endothermic peaks evidenced both types of crystals being gelatinized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modifications within the epigenome of an organism in response to external environmental conditions allow it to withstand the hostile stress factors. Drought in chickpea is a severely limiting abiotic stress factor which is known to cause huge yield loss. To analyse the methylome of chickpea in response to drought stress conditions and how it affects gene expression, we performed whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) and RNA-seq of two chickpea genotypes which contrast for drought tolerance. It was observed that the mCHH was most variable under drought stress and the drought tolerant (DT) genotype exhibited substantial genome-wide hypomethylation as compared to the drought sensitive (DS) genotype. Specifically, there was substantial difference in gene expression and methylation for the ribosomal genes for the tolerant and sensitive genotypes. The differential expression of these genes was in complete agreement with earlier reported transcriptomes in chickpea. Many of these genes were hypomethylated (q < 0.01) and downregulated under drought stress (p < 0.01) in the sensitive genotype. The gene RPS6 (ribosomal protein small subunit) was found to be downregulated and hypomethylated in the drought sensitive genotype which could possibly lead to reduced ribosomal biosynthesis. This study provides novel insights into regulation of drought-responsive genes in chickpea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to assess the compositional characteristics of British Kabuli chickpea aquafaba (AF) by conducting a comprehensive analysis from raw chickpeas to centrifugation fractions of AF and its potential use in forming and stabilising capsaicin-loaded O/W Pickering systems by exploiting the presence of self-assembled nanoparticles and proteins, which act as natural-coating agent. To this end, chickpeas were soaked (16 h, 4 °C, 1:4 chickpea: water) and pressure-cooked (20 min, 113 °C, 10 psig, 1:5 chickpea: water). The dry weight-based (DWB) compositions included total carbohydrate (76.33 ± 4.20%), protein (16.29 ± 0.43%), total phenolics (7.05–8.77 mg/g) and saponins (39.95 ± 0.89 mg/g), thus confirming the leaching of these components from seeds to AF. SDS-PAGE electrophoresis analysis revealed the presence of low MW proteins (≤∼16 kDa). The monosaccharides comprised d -glucose, d -galactose, l -arabinose, d -xylose and d -fructose. AF's particle size distribution revealed the occurrence of a bimodal population of nanoparticles (D h ≤∼1000 nm and D h ≤∼100 nm), further characterised by SAXS and TEM imaging. O/W emulsions were prepared with three chilli oleoresin types (capsicum, chilli birds' eye, and chilli ancho) by high-pressure homogenisation. The emulsion with the highest capsaicin content (capsicum oleoresin) was the most stable while the emulsion with the lowest capsaicin content (chilli ancho oleoresin) was the least stable. The presence of incidental nanoparticles and denatured proteins in AF was reasoned to account for the formation and stabilisation of chilli oleoresin-in-water Pickering emulsions, a newly offered explanation for its interfacial properties that will be pursued further in future studies. [Display omitted] • Aquafaba comprises carbohydrates, proteins, saponin, and phenolics that leach out from chickpeas during cooking. • Self-assembled incidental nanoparticles and denatured proteins occur in aquafaba. • Aquafaba nanoparticles and denatured proteins contribute to the formation of chilli oleoresin-in-water Pickering emulsions. • The emulsion stability correlates positively with the capsaicin content in the oil phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing concerns among consumers regarding environmental sustainability, religion, health, and food safety have led to increasing prominence of plant-based food products. Aquafaba, a viscous liquid by-product obtained from canned or pressured-cooked chickpea, has gained popularity as a cost-effective egg replacement in gluten-free, vegan, and baked foods. In this study, we applied ethanol precipitation to aqueous chickpea aquafaba, yielding a white powder product (AQE-P). Proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H NMR) analysis was employed to determine the molecular weight, carbohydrate profile and composition of foam produced from AQE-P. Results revealed significant variations in the chemical composition of aquafaba produced from different chickpea cultivars. Ethanol precipitation effectively reduced simple sugar (sucrose, galactose, and arabinose) as well as oligosaccharides (stachyose, raffinose, and trehalose) from aqueous aquafaba. AQE-P primarily consisted of water-soluble polysaccharides (24.8%, including soluble fiber and gelatinized soluble starch), protein (35.7%), oligosaccharides (18.4%) and insoluble fiber (21.2%). Notably, AQE-P extracted from both fresh and refrigerated aquafaba (4 °C, 24 h) exhibited improved foaming properties due to its higher protein and polysaccharide content. In conclusion, ethanol precipitation can be a simple, rapid, and feasible technology for chickpea aquafaba processing, yielding a functional powder ingredient, AQE-P. This product has potential as a plant-based emulsifier and foaming agent in various food applications, offering enhanced storage stability, nutritional value, and functionality when compared to aqueous or dried aquafaba. [Display omitted] • Aquafaba chemical composition varies among different chickpea cultivars. • Ethanol can precipitate functional ingredients from aqueous aquafaba. • Ethanol precipitation enhances the nutritional density and foaming properties of aquafaba products. • The ethanol precipitate of aquafaba primarily comprises proteins, starch, water-soluble and insoluble fiber. • Protein and water-insoluble fiber are essential for maintaining aquafaba foam structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modifications within the epigenome of an organism in response to external environmental conditions allow it to withstand the hostile stress factors. Drought in chickpea is a severely limiting abiotic stress factor which is known to cause huge yield loss. To analyse the methylome of chickpea in response to drought stress conditions and how it affects gene expression, we performed whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) and RNA-seq of two chickpea genotypes which contrast for drought tolerance. It was observed that the mCHH was most variable under drought stress and the drought tolerant (DT) genotype exhibited substantial genome-wide hypomethylation as compared to the drought sensitive (DS) genotype. Specifically, there was substantial difference in gene expression and methylation for the ribosomal genes for the tolerant and sensitive genotypes. The differential expression of these genes was in complete agreement with earlier reported transcriptomes in chickpea. Many of these genes were hypomethylated (q < 0.01) and downregulated under drought stress (p < 0.01) in the sensitive genotype. The gene RPS6 (ribosomal protein small subunit) was found to be downregulated and hypomethylated in the drought sensitive genotype which could possibly lead to reduced ribosomal biosynthesis. This study provides novel insights into regulation of drought-responsive genes in chickpea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the impact of combining pH-shifting and cold plasma (CP) treatment on chickpea protein isolate (CPI) functionality. Compared with pH-shifting treatment alone, the functional properties of CPI were significantly improved when the pH was shifted under acidic (pH = 2) or alkaline (pH = 12) conditions, followed by a 30 s CP treatment before neutralization at pH 7. Particularly, the method conducted at pH 12 followed by 30 s CP treatment proved most efficient, significantly improving solubility (from 65.51 ± 1.07% to 73.01 ± 0.65%), gel strength (from 27.19 ± 1.51 g to 66.57 ± 1.69 g), fat absorption capacity (from 2.39 ± 0.02 g/g to 4.22 ± 0.05 g/g), emulsifying activity (from 57.47 ± 0.06 m2/g to 71.95 ± 0.19 m2/g), foaming capacity (from 58.33 ± 2.36% to 123 ± 5.1%), and in vitro protein digestibility (from 47.49 ± 0.44% to 55.78 ± 0.8%). These improvements were attributed to reduced protein aggregates, increased solubility, and enhanced surface hydrophobicity. Furthermore, alterations in the secondary and tertiary protein structure following these treatments positively impacted CPI's functional properties, offering important implications for protein modification with improved functional profiles. • The combined treatment altered the structure of chickpea protein isolate (CPI). • CPI treated with cold plasma at pH 12 (CP12) had the best functional properties. • CP12 had the highest solubility and surface hydrophobicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Chickpea protein hydrolysate optimized the quality of frozen dough. • Chickpea protein hydrolysate enhanced viability of yeasts under freeze–thaw stress. • Metabolomics reveals a role for alterations of yeast intracellular metabolites. • Chickpea protein hydrolysate is a novel cryoprotectant for industrial yeasts. The use of frozen dough is an intensive food-processing practice that contributes to the development of chain operations in the bakery industry. However, the fermentation activity of yeasts in frozen dough can be severely damaged by freeze–thaw stress, thereby degrading the final bread quality. In this study, chickpea protein hydrolysate significantly improved the quality of steamed bread made from frozen dough while enhancing the yeast survival rate and maintaining yeast cell structural integrity under freeze–thaw stress. The mechanism underlying this protective role of chickpea protein hydrolysate was further investigated by untargeted metabolomics analysis, which suggested that chickpea protein hydrolysate altered the intracellular metabolites associated with central carbon metabolism, amino acid synthesis, and lipid metabolism to improve yeast cell freeze–thaw tolerance. Therefore, chickpea protein hydrolysate is a promising natural antifreeze component for yeast cryopreservation in the frozen dough industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the world population is steadily growing, the demand for plant-based protein in general, and chickpea in particular, is rising. Heatwaves and terminal droughts are the main environmental constraints on chickpea production worldwide. Thus, developing better irrigation management for the chickpea agro-system can promote higher and more sustainable yields. Strategic supplemental irrigation can dramatically increase yield when applied at the right time and in appropriate quantities. Here, we studied the response of a modern Kabuli chickpea cultivar to supplemental irrigation during the critical pod-filling period over three growing seasons (2019–2021) in northern Negev, Israel, under semi-arid conditions. Six irrigation treatments were applied based on irrigation factors of 0, 0.5, 0.7, 1.0, 1.2, and 1.4 of evapotranspiration (ET 0), as measured by an on-site meteorological station. Morpho-physiological parameters and above-ground biomass accumulation were monitored throughout the cropping seasons, and the final grain yield was determined at maturation. Irrigation initiation was guided by the plants' leaf water potential (ΨLWP > 15 bar) in the field. Our results indicate that the optimal water status (as reflected by pressure chamber values) was 12–14 bar during the irrigation period. Furthermore, adhering to an irrigation strategy based on evapotranspiration with an irrigation factor of 1.2 resulted in the highest grain yields over the three-year study period. To ensure an optimal water supply during the reproductive phase compatible with the crop water requirements, maintaining a 25 mm node length above the last fully developed pod and a 90 mm distance between the last fully developed pod to the stem apex is recommended. In conclusion, initiating irrigation when the crop is already at mild drought stress, followed by sufficient irrigation while following the indicated morphology and water potential values, may help farmers optimize irrigation and maximize chickpea crop production. • Chickpea irrigation was optimized based on crop evapotranspiration and morphology. • Morphological traits may depict the dynamics of chickpea crop water status. • A long reproductive phase may promote high yield under semi-arid conditions. • Irrigation factor 1.2 was the most productive for the semi-arid chickpea agrosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought and high temperature stress affect chickpea growth and productivity. Often these stresses occur simultaneously in the field and lead to a wide range of molecular and metabolic adaptations. Two chickpea varieties; GPF2 (heat sensitive) and PDG4 variety (heat tolerant) were exposed to 35 °C for 24 h individually and along with drought stress. Five heat responsive signalling genes and 11 structural genes were analyzed using qPCR along with untargeted metabolites analysis using GC MS. Expression of antioxidant genes (CaSOD and CaGPX, CaAPX and CaCAT), transcription factors (CaHSFB2, CaHSFB2A, CaHSFB2B, CaHSP17.5 and CaHSP22.7) and signalling genes (CaCAM, CaGAD, and CaMAPK) were upregulated in GPF2 as compared to PDG4 variety. Principal component analysis (PCA), partial least-square discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), and heat map analysis were applied to the metabolomics data to identify the differential response of metabolites in two chickpea varieties. GC-MS analysis identified 107 and 83 metabolites in PDG4 and GPF2 varieties respectively. PDG4 variety accumulated more sugars, amino acids, sugar alcohols, TCA cycle intermediates which provided heat resistance. Additionally, the differential metabolic pathways involved in heat tolerance were alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism, pantothenate CoA biosynthesis, fructose and mannose metabolism and pentose phosphate pathway in PDG4 variety. There was less accumulation of metabolites in the primed plants of both varieties as compared to the non-primed plants indicating less damage due to heat stress. The present study gives an overview of the molecular changes occurring in response to heat stress in sensitive and tolerant chickpea. • Chickpea is exposed to terminal heat and drought stress. • Five heat signaling genes and 11 structural genes were analyzed using qPCR along with GC-MS analysis. • High temperature and combinatorial stress enhanced the expression of almost all genes in GPF2. • In PDG4 only selective genes and metabolites were upregulated. • Priming modulates the transcriptional, metabolic activity and maintains cellular homeostasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work aimed to elucidate the influence of wall breakage induced by thermal processing on the molecular, structural, and antioxidant activities of water-soluble polysaccharides in chickpeas. Different extents of cell wall disruption were observed by fluorescence microscopy in chickpea cotyledons. Moreover, a decreasing fluorescence intensity of cell wall fragments was observed in the flour residues upon heat fluidization, autoclaving, and microwave heating, and the polysaccharide extraction rates were increased by 31.47%, 25.52%, and 9.79%, respectively. Furthermore, WPUCP, WPHCP, WPMCP, and WPACP (water-soluble polysaccharides from unprocessed, heat fluidized, microwaved, and autoclaved chickpeas, respectively) were RG-I (rhamnogalacturonan-I)-enriched pectic polysaccharides composed of galactose, arabinose, galacturonic acid, and rhamnose. After chickpea thermal processing, the degrees of branching decreased to 2.87, 3.79, and 2.53 in WPHCP, WPMCP, and WPACP, respectively, and the molecular weights were reduced by 46.46%, 24.83%, and 59.91%, respectively. Structural analysis showed that the semicrystalline regions of WPHCP, WPMCP, and WPACP were slightly damaged without changing the functional groups, but their thermal stability decreased. Interestingly, WPACP formed an ordered conformation (microporous network structure) through the formation of hydrogen bonds. Moreover, the antioxidant activities of WPHCP, WPMCP, and WPACP were enhanced, and the strongest radical scavenging activity was observed for WPHCP. [Display omitted] • Cotyledon cell walls were dramatically broken upon different heat treatments. • Heat-induced wall-broken increased the dissolution rate of pectic polysaccharides. • Molecular weight decreased by the scission of side chains in RG-I domain. • Molecular morphology changed from rod-like aggregates to microporous network. • Heat fluidization imparted the strongest radical scavenging activity to polysaccharides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aim was to assess the environmental impacts and costs of the entire production chain of animal and plant-based proteins, including the normalization and weighting steps, environmental charges prices, and the market potential of emerging plant-based proteins. Here, through the life cycle assessment tool, seven impact categories were evaluated for the production of 1 kg of plant-based feedstock with high protein potential (soybean, chickpea, and lentil) and animal proteins (bovine, pork, and poultry) under production systems of greater commercial relevance. Subsequently, the burger formulation (113 g) was defined as a standard functional unit to compare the scenarios previously evaluated. The results showed that emerging plant-based proteins and animal protein from poultry have better environmental performance when compared directly to animal proteins from bovine and pork. Among the findings of this study, the belief that the energy consumption demanded by the grain processing step is higher when compared to animal slaughter was broken, In a proportional analysis, the production costs of animal protein showed average values of 3.73 USD/burger, while the plant-based proteins were 0.31 USD/ burger. On the other hand, the costs related to greenhouse gas emissions were 0.02 USD/ burger for both scenarios evaluated. In view of this, it is possible to identify that just linking environmental benefits as the object of choice for the consumption of plant-based proteins is not the best strategy for the global climate change solution, once animal proteins from poultry also presented a satisfactory environmental performance, being ranked first under the endpoint weighting methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study evaluated the effect of chitosan thiamine nanoparticles (TCNP) on the activation of defence responses in chickpea against stress caused by wilt pathogen, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceri (FOC), under greenhouse condition. A significant increase in enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants was observed in the TCNP treated chickpea plants challenged with FOC compared to the untreated control. Histochemical staining showed high deposition of lignin in the vascular bundles of chickpea stem tissues in TCNP treated plants challenged with FOC. More than 90% protection against wilt pathogen was observed in TCNP treated chickpea plants challenged with FOC, under greenhouse condition. Higher accumulation of antioxidants and phenylpropanoids in TCNP treated challenged chickpea plants well correlates with resistance against wilt pathogen. These results suggest that the elicitation of stress response in TCNP treated chickpea during FOC interaction play a vital role in suppressing the wilt disease in chickpea. • TCNP inhibits spore germination of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceri (FOC). • Antioxidant enzymes enhanced during FOC infection in TCNP treated chickpea. • TCNP treated FOC challenged plants show lignin deposition in stem tissues. • Accumulation of antioxidants and phenylpropanoids correlates with FOC resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Potato, lentil, chickpea and pea are the most accepted alternative protein sources. • Algae, insects and cultured meat are less accepted than plant-based proteins. • Influence of consumer characteristics on acceptance depends on protein source. • Consumers' expectations are one-dimensional across different protein sources. Meat alternatives have the potential to shift people's diets into a more sustainable direction. To improve consumers' attitudes to meat alternatives and increase the likelihood of their consumption, it is important to identify the most promising protein sources from a consumer perspective. This study investigated expectations toward 17 specific protein sources applied in meat alternatives and four conventional animal-based protein sources across six rating dimensions in an online survey with 916 participants from the German-speaking part of Switzerland. Additionally, several relevant consumer characteristics, namely food neophobia, health consciousness, preference for naturalness, environmental identity, and consumers' attitudes to meat and meat alternatives, were assessed. Meat alternatives containing potato, lentil, chickpea, and pea achieved the highest acceptance scores. Other protein sources, such as algae, insects, and different types of cultured meat, did not achieve high acceptance. Multiple regressions were used to investigate further the influence of consumer characteristics. For different types of protein sources, different consumer characteristics were identified as barriers, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing groups of consumers and types of protein sources. The study also showed that people's commitment to meat has no influence on their acceptance of alternative proteins; rather, negative attitudes to meat alternatives are the problem. Future efforts should therefore focus on optimizing the properties of meat alternatives, instead of demonizing the consumption of meat. One way to optimize the acceptance of meat alternatives is to use ingredients that consumers already have positive expectations toward, such as potato, lentil, chickpea, and pea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different quantification methods for in vitro amylolysis were compared for individual chickpea and lentil cotyledon cells (ICC) as a relevant case study. For the first time, much-applied spectrophotometric methods relying on the quantification of certain functional groups (i.e., DNS, GOPOD) were compared to chromatographic quantification of starch metabolites (HPLC-ELSD). The estimated rate constant and linked initial rates of amylolysis were highly correlated for DNS, GOPOD, and HPLC-ELSD. However, absolute amylolysis levels depended on the applied method and sample-specific metabolite formation patterns. Multiresponse modelling was employed to further investigate HPLC-ELSD metabolite formation patterns. This delivered insight into the relative importance of different amylolysis reactions during in vitro digestion of pulse ICC, proving that maltotriose and maltose formation determined the overall amylolysis rate in this case. Multiresponse reaction rate constants of maltotriose and maltose formation were highly correlated to single response amylolysis rate constants (and initial rates) obtained for all three quantification methods. [Display omitted] • In vitro amylolysis quantification methods DNS, GOPOD and HPLC-ELSD were compared. • Quantification results were highly correlated, though extents were method-dependent. • HPLC-ELSD delivered in-depth insight into starch metabolite formation patterns. • Multiresponse modelling provided insight into amylolysis reactions. • Maltose and maltotriose formation are rate-determining for pulse cell amylolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effect of ultrasound (20–60 min, 40 kHz, 280 W) on the structural, physicochemical, and emulsifying properties of aquafaba extracted from various legumes (chickpea [CH], yellow soybean [YSB], black soybean [BSB], small black bean [SBB]). The hydrophobic amino acids and protein secondary structures (α-helix, random coil) significantly increased with sonication time (p < 0.05). The particle size of aquafaba was reduced by ultrasound (p < 0.05). A total of 27 volatile compounds were identified. Most volatiles increased with sonication time, and beany flavor was lowest in CH and SBB. The EAI, ESI, adsorbed proteins, and zeta-potential increased, while emulsion droplet size decreased in all legumes by ultrasound. The overall emulsifying properties were the highest in SBB sonicated for 40 min. This study discusses the applicability of ultrasound to aquafaba and provides insights into the functional properties and potential of aquafaba as a plant-based natural emulsifier [Display omitted] • Ultrasound increased the hydrophobic amino acids, α-helix, and free SH content. • Hexanal and 1-hexanol were significantly increased after ultrasound treatment. • The particle size of aquafaba decreased as the sonication time increased. • The EAI, ESI, AP content, and zeta-potential were increased by ultrasound treatment. • The overall emulsifying properties were the highest in SBB sonicated for 40 min. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Probiotically fermented chickpeas increase the content of polyphenols in bread. • The fermented chickpea additive enhanced the antioxidant activity of bread. • Chickpea supplement leads to an increase in riboflavin content. • Fermented chickpeas significantly increase the nutritional value of bread. • Fermented chickpeas improved bread texture during storage. This study aimed to determine the impact of supplementation with probiotically fermented chickpea (Cicer arietinum L) seeds on the quality parameters and functional characteristics of wheat bread. The addition of chickpea seeds caused significant changes in the chemical composition of the control wheat bread. The legume-supplemented products exhibited higher values of a* and b* color parameters and higher hardness after 24 h of storage than the control. The application of fermented or unfermented chickpeas contributed to an increase in total polyphenol and flavonoid contents, iron chelating capacity, and antioxidant properties of the final product. The variant containing unfermented seeds had the highest riboflavin content (29.53 ± 1.11 µg/100 g d.w.), Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (227.02 ± 7.29 µmol·L−1 TX/100 g d.w.), and free radical scavenging activity (71.37 ± 1.30 % DPPH inhibition). The results of this preliminary research have practical importance in the production of innovative bakery products with potential properties of functional food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cooking of pulses causes gelatinization−melting of starch and denaturation of proteins. These thermal transitions were studied in beans and chickpeas using differential scanning calorimetry (20−160 °C, water contents ranging from 0.2 to 4.0 kg kg−1 dry basis). In the thermogram, the shape and temperature of the transition peaks depended on the water content in starch and protein. The thermogram was analyzed to quantify water distribution between starch and protein, assuming the coexistence of two water populations. After modeling the peaks as Gaussian functions, the distribution of water during heating was modeled as a Weibull distribution with water dependent parameters. Most water was available in protein, and was reallocated from protein to starch during heating. The fraction of water attributed to starch increased from less than 10 % of total water to 35−45 % at the end of cooking. Competition between starch and protein for available water delayed all thermal transitions. • Starch transitions occurs at higher temperatures when mixed with proteins. • Water distribution differs between starch and protein. • In starch−protein mixtures, the protein phase captures the most water. • Water reallocates from protein to starch during heating. • The transitions of starch determine the temperature range of water redistribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chickpea protein isolate (CPI) typically exhibits limited emulsifying properties under various food processing conditions, including pH variations, different salt concentrations, and elevated temperatures, which limits its applications in the food industry. In this study, CPI-citrus pectin (CP) conjugates were prepared through the Maillard reaction to investigate the influence of various CP concentrations on the structural and emulsifying properties of CPI. With the CPI/CP ratio of 1:2, the degree of graft reached 35.54 %, indicating the successful covalent binding between CPI and CP. FT-IR and intrinsic fluorescence spectroscopy analyses revealed alterations in the secondary and tertiary structures of CPI after glycosylation modification. The solubility of CPI increased from 81.39 % to 89.59 % after glycosylation. Moreover, freshly prepared CPI emulsions showed an increase in interfacial protein adsorption (70.33 % to 92.71 %), a reduction in particle size (5.33 μm to 1.49 μm), and a decrease in zeta-potential (–34.9 mV to –52.5 mV). Simultaneously, the long-term stability of the emulsions was assessed by employing a LUMiSizer stability analyzer. Furthermore, emulsions prepared with CPI:CP 1:2 exhibited excellent stability under various environmental stressors. In conclusion, the results of this study demonstrate that the glycosylation is a valuable approach to improve the emulsifying properties of CPI. [Display omitted] • The chemical structures of CPI were changed after glycosylation modification. • Appropriate addition of pectin was beneficial for the glycosylation of CPI. • Glycosylation enhanced adsorption capacity of CPI at the oil-water interface. • Glycosylation degree of CPI was directly related to its emulsifying properties. • Glycosylation modification of CPI enhanced the stability of its emulsions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Fusarium wilt is a devastating chickpea disease caused by Fusarium oxysporum. • Over 600 phytochemicals evaluated against pathogen proteins by molecular docking. • Toxicity risks of the phytochemicals and chemical fungicides evaluated. • Molecular docking and MD simulation identified 14 potential biofungicides. • Biofungicides would be more eco-friendly than hazardous chemical fungicides. Fusarium wilt caused by the fungal pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. ciceri (Foc) is a devastating chickpea disease. Foc is a soil-borne pathogen that invades plants through roots and can kill them in three to four weeks. Although Fusarium wilt can be controlled by soil solarization or fumigation with chemical fungicides, these are not always effective. Soil fumigation is also hazardous to the beneficial soil microflora, deteriorates soil health, and causes pollution. Hence, there is an urgent need to identify potent and environment-friendly biofungicides to control fungal pathogens. We employed transcriptome analysis and structure-based drug discovery approaches to identify potential biofungicides from four widely used medicinal plants: Lantana camara , Piper betel , Ricinus communis , and Azadirachta indica. Fusarium wilt-resistant and susceptible chickpea varieties were pathogen-inoculated and grown under controlled conditions in a greenhouse. Transcriptome analysis was performed to identify pathogenicity-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Over 600 phytochemicals from the four medicinal plants and four chemical fungicides were considered for molecular docking against the predicted protein structures of the four most expressed pathogen DEGs. The phytochemicals with the best docking scores and the lowest predicted toxicity risk were considered for molecular dynamics (MD) simulation at 100 ns timescale, and 15 potential biofungicides were identified. This study paves the way for developing biofungicides with enhanced efficacy and safety to manage Fusarium wilt in chickpea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The appearance of blotch/ tiger stripe on chickpea seeds is a genotype-specific seed marking which, although not considered a defect during seed inspection, is often rejected based on consumer trait preferences. This study aimed to investigate the expression of blotch/tiger stripe, thousand grain weight (TGW) and days to podding in Australian desi-type chickpea. A single seed-descent mapping population of 242 F 7 derived progeny lines was selected from a controlled cross of two homozygous parent genotypes, PBA Slasher x Sonali. An independent set of nineteen cultivars/advanced genotypes was used to validate the results of the mapping population. Field trials were carried out over two years in Narrabri, north-western NSW, Australia. We phenotypically analysed the mapping population and validation set of cultivars/genotypes for the proportion of blotch/tiger stripe and then carried out composite interval mapping QTL analysis to identify genetic loci linked with the traits of interest. Significant markers that were identified in the mapping population were validated on the additional nineteen cultivars/genotypes. Significant phenotypic variation in the expression of blotch/tiger stripe was observed (P<0.001) and blotch/tiger stripe was found to be highly heritable (H2 = 0.98). TGW of seeds marked with blotch/tiger stripe (200.9 g) was significantly lower than that of unmarked seeds (208.2 g) (P<0.001). Five Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) relating to blotch/tiger stripe were identified consistently across the two seasons. A major QTL linked with the reduced expression of blotch/tiger stripe was identified at QTL 1 which reduced the expression of the trait by up to 9.92%. KASP (Kompetitive Allele-specific PCR) markers were developed for this locus and validated in the set of nineteen cultivars/genotypes in which 13–19% of phenotypic variation was accounted for. Significant phenotypic variation in the expression of blotch/tiger stripe was observed and the trait was found to be highly heritable. Five QTL relating to blotch/tiger stripe were identified and the region at QTL 1 was identified as a candidate for fine mapping to determine the genetic variant which is responsible for the trait. KASP markers developed in this study will be of value to breeders, allowing marker assisted selection (MAS) to screen for this trait in the absence of phenotypic symptoms. This study will benefit the chickpea industry by increasing industry awareness of the marking and reducing the prevalence of blotch/tiger stripe in breeding germplasm, therefore reducing seed rejection and protecting grower profits. • Blotch/tiger stripe is an often rejected based on consumer trait preferences. • Blotch/tiger stripe is highly heritable. • Five QTLs for blotch/tiger stripe were identified. • KASP markers were developed which will be of use for Marker Assisted Selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]