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Abstract Epidemic of Cashew Fusarium wilt disease (CFWD) has been a continuous focal challenge in the cashew farming, in Tanzania. Limited to edaphic conditions as a major factor in its epidemic, the current study aimed to assess the habitat-disease relationship. Purposive surveys involving assessment of disease prevalence and habitat compositions were conducted across four landscapes of southeastern zone from 2019 to 2023. Findings revealed a widespread of CFWD across diversified landscapes possessing varying habitat characteristics, mainly cultivated land with mature cashew, brownish sand loamy soils, grassland or shrub vegetation, seasonal river streamlines and natural water wells. The highest disease incidence and severity were noted at Nachingwea/Masasi plain (99.28:88.34%) followed by Liwale inland plain (98.64:89.3%), Coastal zone (72.72:59.83%) and Tunduru dissected plain (62.13:54.54%). The habitat characteristics were strongly similar within the landscape (0.86-Jaccard index) except between villages of the coastal zone (0.71-Jaccard index). Across landscapes, Nachingwea/Masasi plains and the Coastal zone were strongly similar to Tunduru dissected plain (0.63—1.0-Jaccard index), but strongly dissimilar with the Liwale inland plain (0.67—0.70- Jaccard distance). Furthermore, the presence of greater than 0.5 suitability indices across landscapes were revealed, with Liwale inland plain having strongest suitability index of 0.743 followed by Coastal zone (0.681), Tunduru dissected plain (0.617) and Nachingwea/Masasi plain. Significantly, the habitats had an increase of 0.1 suitability index, and positively correlated with disease prevalence by triggering disease incidence of 13.9% and severity of 31.4%. The study for the first time revealed the presence of an association between disease prevalence and landscape habitat characteristics of southeastern, Tanzania; paving the way to inclusive thinking of habitat as one of the drivers in the prevalence of fusarium wilt disease of cashews. Further research on the genetic coevolution of Fusarium oxysporum across landscapes to strengthen disease risk management in the cashew industry is recommended.

Food processing can alter protein biochemical properties, impacting immunoreactivity and allergenicity. A key feature of food allergens is their resistance to enzymatic digestion, particularly by pepsin and trypsin. This study compares the digestomes of raw and heat- and/or pressure-treated peanuts, hazelnuts, pistachios and cashews using the INFOGEST harmonized digestion protocol and analyzing their IgE-binding capacity through in vitro methods. Protein patterns from controls and digestomes were resolved by SDS-PAGE and tested with sera from allergic patients, confirmed by competitive ELISA for hazelnuts and peanuts. The results indicate that processing methods differently affect the gastrointestinal (GI) digestion of these allergens. Simulated GI digestion caused a significant destruction of protein structures, reducing but not eliminating IgE reactivity for all four nuts. Boiling for 60 min did not change the SDS-PAGE profiles, but it did stimulate enzymatic activity, decreasing IgE binding capacity. In contrast, applying heat and pressure led to a nearly complete inhibition of allergenic potential during simulated digestion. These findings suggest that employing intense food processing techniques and investigating the gastrointestinal effects of highly allergenic nuts could be crucial steps toward developing new hypoallergenic formulations.

Following successful oral immunotherapy (OIT) for peanut allergy using boiled peanuts (BOPI trial), this study investigated the potential of wet-thermal-processing-induced allergen modification, specifically soaking and boiling (1–4 h) to reduce the allergenicity of cashew and pistachio allergens. In addition, this study provides a foundation of understanding for developing safer forms of cashew/pistachio administration for application in OIT by gradual exposure to increasing doses of modified allergens with reduced potency as an “allergen ladder”. An SDS-PAGE analysis and an intrinsic-fluorescence spectroscopy revealed altered tertiary structures of the allergens, leading to their denaturation and even degradation. Notably, the reduction in both allergen-specific polyclonal IgG and human-specific IgE (sIgE) binding correlated with the treatment time, with the most significant decrease observed after 4 h of boiling. In contrast, shorter soaking treatments showed negligible effects on the IgE-binding capacity of these nuts, therefore indicating a further need for optimization. These findings indicate that extended boiling effectively reduced the amounts of the highly potent allergenic component Ana o 3 in cashew and Pis v 1 in pistachio, as confirmed by ELISA using polyclonal anti-Ana o 3 antibodies, and an immunoblot showed decreased IgE epitope binding in cashew and pistachio allergens, which further modified their allergenic profiles. This approach shows promise as a viable method for offering a safer therapeutic option for cashew/pistachio allergy.

The cultivation of cashew crops carries numerous economic advantages, and countries worldwide that produce this crop face a high demand. The effects of wind speed and wind direction on crop yield prediction using proficient deep learning algorithms are less emphasized or researched. We propose a combination of advanced deep learning techniques, specifically focusing on long short-term memory (LSTM) and random forest models. We intend to enhance this ensemble model using dynamic time warping (DTW) to assess the spatiotemporal data (wind speed and wind direction) similarities within Jaman North, Jaman South, and Wenchi with their respective production yield. In the Bono region of Ghana, these three areas are crucial for cashew production. The LSTM-DTW-RF model with wind speed and wind direction achieved an R2 score of 0.847 and the LSTM-RF model without these two key features R2 score of (0.74). Both models were evaluated using the augmented Dickey-Fuller (ADF) test, which is commonly used in time series analysis to assess stationarity, where the LSTM-DTW-RF achieved a 90% level of confidence, while LSTM-RF attained an 87.99% level. Among the three municipalities, Jaman South had the highest evaluation scores for the model, with an RMSE of 0.883, an R2 of 0.835, and an MBE of 0.212 when comparing actual and predicted values for Wenchi. In terms of the annual average wind direction, Jaman North recorded (270.5 SW°), Jaman South recorded (274.8 SW°), and Wenchi recorded (272.6 SW°). The DTW similarity distance for the annual average wind speed across these regions fell within specific ranges: Jaman North (±25.72), Jaman South (±25.89), and Wenchi (±26.04). Following the DTW similarity evaluation, Jaman North demonstrated superior performance in wind speed, while Wenchi excelled in wind direction. This underscores the potential efficiency of DTW when incorporated into the analysis of environmental factors affecting crop yields, given its invariant nature. The results obtained can guide further exploration of DTW variations in combination with other machine learning models to predict higher cashew yields. Additionally, these findings emphasize the significance of wind speed and direction in vertical farming, contributing to informed decisions for sustainable agricultural growth and development.

Purpose: the study aim was to evaluate the farmers' knowledge on fertilizer use in cashew by assessing their awareness on the fertilizers, extent of use, obtained benefits from use in cashew, limiting factors of use, availability and changes after use. Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L) is a recent topmost strategic crop in Tanzania. Through cashew, earnings of > $585 million were reached in 2017/18 season. Chlorosis, flower abortion and dropping of immature nuts hinder cashew production referring the decrease from 3200,000 Metric Tons (MT) in 2017/18 to less than 200,000 MT in 2021/2022. Farmers’ knowledge on fertilizer use in cashew is not precisely known. Methods: through cross-section design using questionnaires, purposive sampling of respondents was done. Four villages each from three agro-ecologies i. e, Makonde Plateau (MP), Tunduru Dissected Plains (TDP), and Masasi-Nachingwea Plains (MNP) were selected in South-eastern, Tanzania. About 480 households were interviewed. Results: about 75% of respondents were aware of foliage fertilizers while 45.4% agreed on their suitability for cashew. About 44.7%, 27.9%, and 27.4% of respondents use foliar fertilizers in TDP, MP, and MNP, respectively. Some respondents (3.7%) apply 1 L of foliage fertilizers per round acre−1 and 5.1% apply for 1–3 rounds, and some few (1%) apply up to 10 rounds season−1. Cashew farming experience and credit access negatively influenced foliar fertilizer uses; hence foliar fertilizer prices linearly reduced the extent of use. Conclusion: limited knowledge among the farmers on fertilizer use in cashew was a challenge. Therefore, farmers' training and detailed fertilizer use research are recommended.

Weeds are among the limiting factors that influence low production of economically important crops including cashew (Anacardium occidental L.). Shrub weeds attribute to inter-competition for resources, hinder harvesting and ultimately reduce cashew yields in Tanzania. The current study determined the distribution, characteristics and chemical control option of Dichapetalum Engl in Lindi and Mtwara regions, Southeastern Tanzania. The distribution study involved a survey for weed presence along the areas of Lindi and Mtwara regions. The characterization included distilling, and assessing the growth and development properties of shrub weed. Chemical herbicides; glyphosate 480g. ai/l, 2, 4 D - Dichlorirophenoxyacetic 720g. ai/l, triclopyr 160g a.i./l and 1:1 mixture of glyphosate 480g a.i./l plus triclopyr 160g a.i./L at 15, 20 and 25 mls of formulated product/L of water per 4 m2 were tested on tender, mature and blooming growth stages of D. Stuhlmannii and three spraying frequencies. Findings revealed that the D.stuhlmannii, is a widely distributed shrub weed in Lindi and Mtwara regions. The weed was characterized with three main growth stages of seedling, mature and blooming with a long tap root and evergreen throughout the wet and dry seasons. The tested herbicides revealed the potential suppression of D. Stuhlmannii growth. Glyphosate and a mixture of glyphosate + triclopyr at 15 ml/L outperformed triclopyr and 2, 4 D across all the growth stages. Double spraying of glyphosate and its mixture bettered frequencies of triclopyr and 2, 4 D. The delayed regrowth of suppressed shrub weed took 90–120 days after application of herbicides. The current study recommends for single or double applications of glyphosate herbicides at 15 ml/L or 10,700 ml/ha on tender or mature D. Stuhlmannii in cashew farms. Further studies on the economic feasibility and effect on the microbiota of applied fungicides are required.

Abstract. Using the right growing media is pivotal for cultivating high-quality seedlings. While topsoil remains a prevalent choice in nurseries, there is a growing need to explore its effectiveness in cashew seedling production and find potential alternatives that might reduce our dependence on it. A three-month experiment was undertaken at the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria's nursery. The setup followed a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) incorporating ten treatment variations, each replicated thrice. These treatments involved two cashew nut types, Jumbo and Medium, and five distinct growing media: 100% Topsoil, 100% Sawdust, 75% Topsoil + 25% Sawdust, 50% Topsoil + 50% Sawdust, and 25% Topsoil + 75% Sawdust. For the procedure, each of these media was filled into perforated polythene bags measuring 30cm x 15cm, with one seed planted per bag. Data collected were on % emergence, morphological, shoot and root data. Data were subjected to ANOVA using SAS (version 2010) statistical package and means were separated using DMRT at (P≤0.05). Findings revealed no notable variance in percentage mean emergence at four weeks post-planting or in leaf count at the twelve-week mark. Control treatments (100% topsoil) for jumbo and medium had the shortest plant height, lowest number of leaves, seedling vigour, fresh root weight and taproot length. 100% topsoil as a growing medium for raising cashew seedlings should be discouraged as the experimented growing media offered statistically the same or improved emergence, morphology, and root growth development.

Cajuína is a processed drink derived from cashew and is widely consumed in the northeast region of Brazil. This study evaluated the effect of a cajuína-based hydroelectrolytic drink on the aerobic performance and hydration status of recreational runners. Seventeen males (31.9 ± 1.6 years, 51.0 ± 1.4 ml/kg/min) performed three time-to-exhaustion running sessions on a treadmill at 70% VO2max, ingesting cajuína hydroelectrolytic drink (CJ), high carbohydrate commercial hydroelectrolytic drink (CH) and mineral water (W) every 15 min during the running test. The participants ran 80.3 ± 8.4 min in CJ, 70.3 ± 6.8 min in CH and 71.8 ± 6.9 min in W, with no statistical difference between procedures. Nevertheless, an effect size of η2 = 0.10 (moderate) was observed. No statistical difference was observed in the concentrations of sodium, potassium, and osmolality in both serum and urine between the three conditions. However, the effect size was moderate (urine sodium) and high (serum sodium, potassium, and osmolality). Urine specific gravity, sweating rate and heart rate were not significantly different between drinks. The cajuína-based hydroelectrolytic drink promotes similar effects compared to commercial hydroelectrolytic drink and water, considering specific urine gravity, heart rate, sweating, and time to exhaustion in recreational runners.

Abstract Background The incidence of wilt disease of cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) caused by Fusarium sp. has recently emerged in two-year-old cashew trees in an experimental field at the Regional Agricultural Research Station, Pilicode, in the Kasaragod district of Kerala, India. The disease was characterized initially by chlorosis of foliage and shoots, followed by necrosis and wilting, with internal symptoms including vascular necrosis, eventually resulting in complete plant mortality. Methods A fungal pathogen was isolated repeatedly from the infected vascular tissues onto potato dextrose agar medium. Symptomology, cultural, morphological and molecular studies were performed to characterize the pathogen causing the disease. Results In culture, the colony of fungus was white, later turning pink. The fungus produced both macro and micro conidia in culture. Molecular characterization revealed the identity of the isolates as Fusarium decemcellulare Brick. Pathogenicity of the isolate was confirmed in cashew seedlings, thereby demonstrating Koch’s postulates. Conclusion To our knowledge, this is the first record of wilt disease of cashew caused by F. decemcellulare in India. The culture of the fungus has been deposited with the National Fungal Culture Collection of India at Agharkar Research Institute, Pune, India with accession number NFCCI 4801, and sequence of the fungus was deposited at GenBank of NCBI with accession number OP942472.

Successful hybridization primarily depends on the crossability of the parents involved as well as development of the F1 hybrids and their derivatives. In the present study, 12 crosses were attempted to study the crossability relationship among cashew genotypes. Among the crosses, the highest crossability was recorded in the cross H-303 x VTH 711/4 (17.16%), whereas, high rate of abscission of young fruits was observed in crosses involving NRCC Selection -2 as female parent. The genotype VTH 711/4 has shown substantially high per cent of crossability and better nut set with different genotypes of cashew.

This study was conducted out to evaluate the soil fertility in under the cashew tree canopy and nutritional contents of cashew trees on the Makonde Plateau in southeast Tanzania. Seven villages were included, all of which were geographically close to one another yet had the same agro-ecology. The cashew plant samples were taken above the same longitudinal segment as the soil samples, which were taken in under canopies of cashew trees. Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium, Magnesium, Calcium, and micro nutrients (Iron, Zinc, Sodium, and Copper) were all examined in the samples. However, soils were analysed for Organic Carbon, Organic Matter, and pH with soil samples taken at two different depths of 0–30 cm and 30–50 cm, these tests were conducted during the wet and dry seasons. The results confirmed that Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, and Iron varied significantly with soil depth, as well as with soil depth, seasons, and their interactions, for Organic Carbon and Organic Matter. During the wet season, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Zinc concentrations in cashew trees were all statistically higher. Nitrogen and Phosphorus were significantly strong and positively (r = 0.95) correlated in cashew plants with respect to all other nutrients, suggesting synergistic effects. These results imply that macro nutrients including Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium, Magnesium, and Calcium, and micronutrients such as Iron, Zinc, Sodium and Copper limit cashew production in the research area. It is necessary to determine site-specific recommendations and dosages for these nutrients.

Introduction of exotic clones into the pedigree of commercial cashew clones could constitute a viable strategy to overcome the current low early nut yield and nut weight of the crop in West Africa. The aim of this study was to assess the combining abilities of Beninese, Brazilian and Ghanaian clones for early nut yield and nut weight. Twelve F1 hybrids were evaluated in the field for five traits such as stem diameter increment, canopy spread, nut yield, nut weight and cropping efficiency. Significant difference (p ≤ .01) was observed for most of the traits. Nut weight varied from 5.3 to 10.1 g/year, whilst nut yield ranged from 666.1 to 872.8 kg/ha/year among the top five crosses in the third to fifth year after planting. The Beninese (BE) progenies were comparable to the Ghanaian (SG) progenies for early nut yield but inferior to the Ghanaian and Brazilian (A) progenies for nut weight. Pearson correlation coefficient estimate (r = 0.74; p ≤ .01) suggest that, selecting for canopy spread in the north-south direction might improve early nut yield. GCA effects were more important than SCA effects. Narrow-sense heritability was moderate and exceeded 50% for all the traits. BE203 and SG224 showed positive GCA for early nut yield, whereas A2 and SG273 showed positive GCA for nut weight. Our study suggest that the Brazilian, Beninese and Ghanaian clones had different merits as potential parents for early nut yield and nut weight and could constitute a suitable genetic resource for improving cashew productivity.

The valuation of CNSL (cashew nut shell liquid), a by-product of the cashew nut sector, could be a solution to improve access to energy in sub-Saharan Africa. This work aimed by studying the valuation of CNSL for its use in a generator mixing with diesel. With this in mind, the CNSL was initially purified by filtration at 25μmafter solubilization in an organic solvent, subsequently eliminated by evaporation. CNSL purified with ethanol presented the most interesting physicochemical characteristics. Blends containing 10% to 60% (vol.) of purified CNSL in diesel fuel were then produced and characterized in terms of lower calorific value, water content, acidity, density, and viscosity. Diesel engine combustion tests of these blends were carried out and the influence of the purified CNSL content on the combustion behaviour of the blend was studied. Observations of the piston head and the valve after 10 h of operation reveal the onset of fouling but which remains comparable to that observed for pure diesel. These first very promising results show that the use of CNSL as a fuel up to 60% in a stationary diesel engine is possible and efforts are still needed to improve the purification technique.

Anacardium occidentale L. stem bark Traditional Herbal Preparations (AoBTHPs) are widely used in traditional medicine to treat inflammatory conditions, such as diabetes. The present study aims to evaluate the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and genotoxic potential of red and white Portuguese AoBTHPs. Using a carrageenan-induced rat paw edema model, a significant anti-edema effect was observed for all tested doses of white AoBTHP (40.2, 71.5, and 127.0 mg/kg) and the two highest doses of red AoB THP (71.5 and 127.0 mg/kg). The anti-edema effect of red AoBTHP’s highest dose was much more effective than indomethacin 10 mg/kg, Trolox 30 mg/kg, and Tempol 30 mg/kg. In DPPH, FRAP, and TAC using the phosphomolybdenum method, both types of AoBTHPs showed similar antioxidant activity and no genotoxicity up to 5000 µg/plate in the Ames test. The LC-UV/DAD-ESI/MS fingerprint allowed the identification of gallic and protocatechuic acids as the two main marker compounds and the presence of catechin, epicatechin, epigallocatechin gallate, and ellagic acid in both AoBTHPs. The obtained results support the validation of red and white AoB and their THPs as anti-inflammatory agents and contribute to the possible development of promising new therapeutic options to treat inflammatory conditions.

This research aims to characterize cashew nut production systems in Togo and identify intervention axes to increase productivity. The method is based on a survey of 384 cashew producers in the main production areas. The results showed that 96.5% of the producers are men, and cashew plantations are mostly owned (79.9%) by indigenous peoples. The average age of producers is 48.15±11.60 years, and most farmers (91%) field is less than three (03) hectares. More than 79% of orchards are obtained by directly sowing and are rarely fertilized (6.34%). Intercropping is frequently practiced and lasts on average 5.1±2.2 years. Cashew nut yields are negatively affected by the long duration of intercropping, labor costs, and the long time between two harvests. Three major groups are distinguished among cashew producers, and ease of access to land is the factor that best discriminates them. Cashew nut yields remain low and average 345 kg/ha. Economic and technical constraints remain the main problems encountered in the field. Thus, the levers for improving cashew nut productivity are the strengthening of contract farming, strengthening of extension services and a better organization of the actors of the sector.

Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) is an important tropical nut crop of social and economic importance worldwide. However, the crop is threatened with the low yield. In the present study, an attempt was made to test the effects of plant growth hormones as well as micronutrients on nut and apple quality of cashew var. Bhaskara. Significant differences in kernel weight, shelling percentage, carbohydrates and starch content of cashew kernel and juice content of cashew apple were observed with the foliar application of growth hormones and micronutrients. The foliar application of ethrel @ 50 ppm increased shelling percentage (35.8%), carbohydrate content (21.63%), sugar content (6.26%), protein content (32.4%), starch content (31.42%), juice content (78.3%) and total soluble solids (120 Brix). Further, the foliar spray of zinc sulphate (0.5%) + borax (0.1%) increased shelling (36.13%), protein content (32.15%), starch content (32.03%) among all the treatments tested. Furthermore, higher cashew apple juice content (78%) and total soluble solids (120Brix) was also recorded with the foliar spray of zinc sulphate (0.5%) + borax (0.1%).

Energy budgeting is important for determining the sustainability and vulnerability of a crop production system. In the present study, an assessment of the energy requirements for cashew cultivation under three different planting densities was carried out during 2015-20. The study revealed that the total input energy consumption for cashew cultivation ranged from 75292.68 to 120903.58 MJ/ha. The energy productivity from 0.04 to 0.13 kg/MJ and energy use efficiency varied from 8.46 to 24.61% under three planting densities. The highest energy was consumed in terms of chemical fertilizers for all the planting densities followed by fuel (diesel), machinery, farmyard manure (FYM), pesticides, petrol and human energy. The analysis revealed the need to implement improved management practices to enhance the energy efficiency by reducing the energy consumption in inputs, by optimizing energy consumption and/or improving the crop yield by optimizing the cultivation methods and switching from non-renewable sources to renewable sources of energy. Among the three different planting densities, 2.5x2.5 m spacing consumed the highest energy followed by 5x5 m and 7.5x7.5m spacing. However, the planting density of 2.5x2.5 m spacing was more energy efficient over the years due to more yields per unit area.

Income maximization from cashew products and proper utilization of resources has significantly evolved in Amoma, as a result of cashew diversification with food crops. The aim of the study was to assess the perceptions of farmers on integrating cashew with food crops. The study aimed to identify the type of food crops intercropped with cashew, as well as reasons and its associated challenges. A total of 83 respondents were purposively sampled from four communities (Asesase, Kukuroase, Tutuoase and Afapemu). The results indicated that all farmers had knowledge on food crops integration with cashew. Amongst the food crops cultivated with cashew include yam, maize, cassava and groundnut. Reasons stated for integration of food crops include weed control, subsistence use and also financial safety nets. Farmers’ major challenge was financial and also weeds control on their farm. The study concluded that yam was the commonest intercrop of cashew followed maize. Key challenges encountered by farmers were weed invasion and inadequate disposable cash for maintenance practices, such pruning and weeding. In pursuit of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals 1 (No Poverty) and 2 (Zero Hunger), the study recommends that farmers be trained on proper food crop integration methods at Amoma to boost yield, financial stability and enhance living conditions.

To promote the better utilization of genetic resources of cashew, 91 accessions maintained at Cashew Research Station, Madakkathara were assessed for 38 phenotypic traits. Frequencies of the phenotypic classes of each character were calculated. The Shannon diversity index (H ') was used to estimate the magnitude of diversity. Polymorphism was high for tree habit (0.96), tree height (0.89), branching pattern (0.89), colour (0.80), ridges (0.93), apex (0.95), cavity (0.90) and weight (0.84) of cashew apple, attachment of nut to apple (0.85), flanks of nut (0.95) and cotyledonary grooves (0.99). The cluster analysis using the squared Euclidean distance method classified the accessions into 13 clusters at a 55 per cent similarity level. More than 50 per cent of the accessions were high yielding with moderate quality kernels. Grouping of the genotypes into agronomic groups revealed the existence of highly prolific accessions with high quality kernels that can be exploited for crop improvement programmes.

Cashew cultivars, based on flowering behaviour, are categorized into three types, viz., early season, mid-season and late season. In late season type, the harvesting of cashew nuts coincides with the rainy season during which the quality of matured nuts are affected by increased pest and disease attack. This loss can be reduced if the nuts are harvested before it reaches its complete maturity. In this context, present study was conducted in immature cashew kernel to find out suitable storage treatments to enhance the shelf life. Immature cashew kernels were stored in different concentrations of brine solution (5%, 10% and 15%), sugar syrup (50°B, 60°B and 70°B) and by drying in hot air oven until the moisture content of kernel reaches 2-3 per cent. Storage period was for four months and the observations like tannin content, microbial content and organoleptic qualities of kernels stored in each treatment were analysed at the beginning and at the end of the storage. The treatment with 10% brine and 70°B sugar syrup for four months were found as best for storing immature cashew kernels.

The research was carried out in Bodo city in Gokana Local Government of Rivers State, Southern Nigeria to evaluate the land suitability for rubber and cashew cultivation using the relevant land suitability guidelines for the cultivation of the two cash crops of interest. Mapping of the 100 ha of land in Bodo city was done using the rigid grid method of soil survey. The three mapping units (summit, middle slope and valley bottom) were identified and delineated. Three representative soil pedons of 2 m x 2 m x 2 m were dug and described by horizon from top to bottom (0 cm to 200 cm). Soil samples were collected from identifiable horizons and processed for laboratory analysis using standard routine laboratory methods most appropriate. The results showed that pedons 1 and 3 covering 86,000 ha of the entire study area were found to be moderately suitable for rubber cultivation with limitation in soil physical characteristics (texture) and fertility (low base saturation < 50 %). Pedon 2 covering 14,000 ha of the total land of the study area was marginally suitable due to limitation in soil fertility (low base saturation < 80 %). Pedon 1, 2, and 3 were also moderately suitable for cashew cultivation in the study area with limitation in soil physical characteristics (texture) and fertility (low organic carbon), while limitation in wetness (poor drainage) was peculiar to pedon 3 only. Thus, soils in the study area were moderately suitable for both rubber and cashew cultivation in the area.

This paper presents a political ecology analysis of intergenerational land dynamics in cashew-producing areas of Ghana’s Brong Ahafo Region. In particular, the paper explores how the growing commercialisation of cashew production for export is driving generational “land grabbing” by older generations and local elites. To do this, we gathered data through interviews, focus groups and observations. Data were analysed through the thematic approach, a process of integrating similar themes from interviews and focus groups. We demonstrate two things: (1) how expanding cashew production is driving generational “land grabbing” by older generations and local elites; (2) how the customary land value is in deep tension with an emerging neoliberal land value. These emerging trends are causing the ‘disenfranchment’ of young people from access to land for cashew production. To this end, the benefits of cashew production for export are likely to elude young people in the region. Based on our findings, we call for a conscious attempt on the part of government to privilege young people’s access to land as part of land reform strategies and also to invest in cashew processing infrastructure to create opportunities for young people to participate in the downstream stages of commercial cashew expansion.

This study investigated the land tenure system, harvesting time and marketing behaviour of cashew farmers in Ghana. Primary data was compiled from 120 cashew farmers, and the multinomial probit was used to assess the determinants of cashew marketing outlets. Types of land ownership (tenure system) for cashew production in Ghana were leasehold, stool, family, state and customary lands. The sales of cashew nuts to buying companies and/or exporters is positively influenced by the land tenure system, good road network, weekly harvest, contract agreements and grading of cashew nuts. Conversely, the experience of farmers coupled with less than one week of harvesting influences the choice of brokers' outlet. The result implies that, cashew cultivation on stool land, likewise harvesting time increases the probability of selling to buying companies and exporters who offered higher margins compared with brokers. Consequently, generic land reform for the whole country to enhance agribusinesses may be important but unnecessary. It is also suggested that the customary land arrangement provided the opportunity to sell to a profitable marketing outlet, it is suggested that Government and NGOs should rather be interested in strengthening the current customary land regime and consultatively recommend for review where necessary in the study areas.

Field experiment was conducted to monitor tea mosquito bug damage with respect to weather variables for seven years from 2013 to 2020 at Cashew Research Station, Madakkathara. A seasonal pattern was observed in tea mosquito bug incidence, coinciding the crop phenophase, initiating from 24th October to 5th November, continuing till 18th to 30th March of the succeeding year. Peak damage and high seasonal indices were recorded during 16th to 28th December, 28th December to 10th January and11th to 23rd January respectively in early, mid and late flowering types. Night temperature between 19.2 and 22.50C, morning relative humidity of 70-80 per cent, evening relative humidity between 40 and 60 per cent, a day length of 11.5 to11.7 hours, sunshine within 7 to 9 hours, and prevalence of low or no rainfall were the triggering factors for pest build up and infestation. The best fit regression with minimum temperature and morning relative humidity predicted the damage with 80-83 per cent accuracy. The models were validated with dataset for the year 2019-20 and RMSE, and other validation statistics revealed no significance difference between observed and predicted values of tea mosquito bug damage. Hence, the models could be utilized to disseminate the insect advisories to the farmers.

Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) is an important cash crop in Tanzania as a source of income to cashew growers and provides foreign exchange for the country. Despite its significance, the crop is threatened by fast spreading disease known as cashew Fusarium wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum. Field assessment and laboratory tests were conducted to determine incidences of the disease, severity, ecological factors that influence them and explored the pathogen host specificity in six cashew growing districts. The results revealed significant (P

This study aimed to assess the carbon storage in cashew plantations in the Sudano-Sahelian zone of Cameroon. Quantification of stocks of biomass and carbon dioxide contained in agroforestry systems has become an international priority within the framework of the implementation of REDD + mechanism. Three cashew plantations were selected according to age classes (0–10 years; 10–20 years and over 20 years) in the four subdivisions (Bénoué, Faro, Mayo-Louti and Mayo-Rey). The experimental device installed is a complete random Fisher block with five repetitions. A 100 m × 20 m transect method was undertaken to assess the biomass. Allometric equations were used to assess carbon stock in biomass and laboratory analysis was used to assess soil carbon stock. Carbon stocks varied following the subdivisions and ranged from 69.29 to 96.67; 62.24 to 82.61; 59.00 to 90.64 and 66.14 to 84.03 tC/ha respectively in Bénoué, Faro, Mayo-Louti and Mayo-Rey. Soil carbon stock varied following the subdivisions and ranged from 22.03 to 30.33; 20.12 to 25.43; 19.21 to 25.73 and 21.06 to 24.51 tC/ha respectively in Bénoué, Faro, Mayo-Louti and Mayo-Rey. The highest total carbon stock was recorded in Bénoué subdivision (81.85 ± 13.55 t C/ha). The cashew plantation is actively sequestering carbon showing the potentiality to mitigate global climate change. Finally, these results are also an important economic, ecological and dynamic informative value to serve as a basis for guiding any program of action aimed at the conservation and sustainable management of this species.

The cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale L.) is a tropical plant found widely in many Southeast Asian countries, including Thailand, and contains bioactive phenolic compounds with antioxidant activity. The natural antioxidants such as collagenase and tyrosinase inhibitors found in medicinal plants are promising agents in cosmetic products. This study evaluated the inhibitory activities of the collagenase and tyrosinase from cashew leaf extracts by developing and evaluating the stability of facial cream formulations. The ethanol (DEN), ethyl acetate (DEA) and distilled water (DDW) crude extracts of cashew leaves were investigated for their bioactive compound efficacy. The DDW extract had the highest yield (24.97%). All the extracts were investigated for their antioxidant activities. The DEN extract showed the highest DPPH radical-scavenging ability, ferric-reducing power and flavonoid compounds, which were 152.04 ± 2.40 mg gallic acid/g extract, 37.90 ± 1.07 mg gallic acid/g dry weight and 7.63 ± 0.07 mg quercetin/g dry weight, respectively. The DDW extract exhibited the highest potent activity, which was 111.00 ± 0.78 mg gallic acid/g dry weight in terms of phenolic content, while the DEN extract showed the highest tyrosinase inhibition at 0.100 mg/mL (46.97 ± 3.34%) and collagenase activity at 40 µg/mL. The results suggested that the ethanolic extracts from cashew leaves showed promise for use in skincare product development. Cosmeceutical formulations for skincare were prepared. The formula mixed with DEN extract and added to whitening and anti-aging skincare cream demonstrated good stability and physical properties.

Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) is important in the world market, including Burkina Faso. This stimulated the implementation of a breeding program on species, targeting on high profitability cashew accessions of food-grade and economical interest. In the present study, nuts from a core of 53 cashew accessions from western Burkina Faso were physico-chemically characterized for the development of more profitable and competitive varieties on the international market. Morphological characteristics including length, width, thickness, weight, kernel yield and technological quality, mainly graining and kernel output ratio (KOR), respectively were evaluated by standard methods. Results showed that the nuts had a mean weight of 6.71 ± 1.13 g, with length, width and thickness of 3.15 ± 0.30 cm, 2.54 ± 0.22 cm, 1.75 ± 0.23 cm, respectively. Samples were mostly composed of large nuts with 86.79% of the nuts of the cashew accessions having a kernel weight below 180 nuts/kg. More than half of the nuts had a very good KOR above 50 lbs. Hierarchical ascending classification allowed to distinguish four groups of nuts which were differentiated by weight, graining, kernel yield and KOR. The graining results showed that 96.22% the nuts, were good quality. Among nuts, 23 out of 53 belonging to groups I, II and III are proposed to be used as seeds for obtaining potential variety for the cashew industry. They can also be candidates as mother trees for crossing to create efficient hybrid varieties that produce interesting medium weight nuts with high kernel yield, KOR and graining.

Abstract This study presents a taxonomic treatment of Anacardium for the state of Pará (Brazil), based on the analysis of specimens from herbaria (CEN, ESA, IAN, INPA, MBM, MFS, MG, RB, UB, and UEC), material collected in the field, and images of specimens from virtual databases. Species identifications were confirmed by consultation of protologues and types or images of types. A morphoanatomical analysis of the leaves of Anacardium was conducted to support taxonomic characterizations. Descriptions, plates, a distribution map, and an identification key for the species of Anacardium occurring in Pará (A. amapaense, A. giganteum, A. humile, A. microsepalum, A. occidentale, and A. spruceanum) are provided.

The expansion of Ghana’s cashew industry is expected to be a watershed moment in the country’s diversification of agricultural export commodity trade. In Ghana’s cashew farms, however, there is a significant difference between observed and potential farm yield. As a result, empirical study is required to serve as policy guidelines in order to improve farmer’s productive efficiency and, as a necessary consequence, contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of no poverty and zero hunger. The study explores farm-level productive efficiency and factors that can lead to variations in farmer’s technical efficiency in the Bono East region of Ghana. The single-stage double bootstrap Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) was used to estimate technical efficiency and its determinants. The estimated results indicate that the average bias-corrected technical efficiency score (33%) was lower than the original average score (51%), suggesting that the original efficiency scores had been skewed upwards. Some of the primary factors that have been reported as having a significant effect on technical efficiency include the gender of respondents, educational attainment, and membership of farmer groups. Results of the resource-use efficiency analysis suggest that cashew farmers in Ghana do not escape the criticisms of inefficient resource allocation. Farm-level policies should be skewed towards enhancing resource-use efficiency through effective capacity-building to improve farmer’s management and technical capabilities, improve farm productivity, and consequently contribute to Ghana's quest to meet the sustainable development goals.

Baubau City is one of the cashew (Anarcadium occidentale L.) producer area in Southeast Sulawesi with area of 820 ha. This large area of cashew cultivation was not compensated with the productivity caused of low production. An effort to overcome this problem is identifying the growth and yield characters of cashew to apply the good agricultural practices for cashew plantation. The objective of this research was to determine the growth and yield of two cashew varieties at different tree ages; and to identify the relationship between the characters and the productivity of cashew trees in Baubau City. This research was arranged by oversite design with 2 varieties (the cashew with red pseudo-fruit and the cashew with yellow pseudo-fruit), 4 ages of cashew plant (5 years old, 17 years old, 26 years old, 37 years old) and 5 replications. The results showed that both varieties had no significantly different on growth and yield characters. At 37 years old, cashew trees still demonstrated the increasing of the productivity due to the increasing of growth and yield component i.e. plant biomass, the number of flower, the number of cashew nut per plant and cashew nut weight per kernel.

The native Australian green plum (Buchanania obovata) is a small fruit that grows in the northern parts of the Northern Territory and Western Australia. The fruit belongs to the family Anacardiaceae, which includes the other agriculturally important fruit mangoes, pistachios and cashew nuts. The green plum is a favored species of fruit for the Aboriginal communities and an important bush food in the Northern Territory. To date, only minimal scientific studies have been performed on the green plum as a food. This review is about plant foods in the family Anacardiaceae and the key nutritional compounds that occur in these fruit and nuts. It looks at the more traditional nutrient profiles, some key health metabolites, allergens and anti-nutrients that occur, and the role these foods play in the health of populations. This provides a guide for future studies of the green plum to show what nutritional and anti-nutritional properties and compounds should be analyzed and if there are areas where future studies should focus. This review includes an update on studies and analysis of the green plum and how its nutritional properties give it potential as a food for diet diversification in Australia.

Cashew nut is one of the topmost edible crops in the world. However, one of the challenges of this crop is processing. Designing an equipment for the processing of cashew nut requires the knowledge of its physical properties data. The dataset in this article contained the physical properties of raw and roasted cashew nuts. The physical properties include length, width, thickness, geometric mean diameter, sphericity, true density, bulk density, porosity and mass of cashew nut. Two experiments were performed. In one experiment, raw cashew nut was roasted in groundnut oil. In the second experiment, raw cashew nut was roasted in palm-kernel oil. The physical properties of the nuts were measured before and after roasting in hot oil. The data were subjected to a paired sample t-test analysis to determine the level of significant difference. The data of the cashew nut graded with machine and sorted with hand manually were compared. The data provided in this article will be useful in designing various types of equipment for grading, separating and cleaning cashew nut. It will also be useful in the design of storage structures and processing machines.

Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L) is an important tropical tree crop revered for its economic and nutritional needs. The demand for cashew is increasing significantly in both domestic and international markets. Planting density and tree canopy influence the yield performances of tree crops. Planting of trees at higher densities in orchards offers high yield potential. In the current study, a field experiment was conducted to study the effect of planting density on growth and yield of different varieties of cashew during 2013-14 to 2017-18. The three varieties, viz. H-130, NRCC Sel. 2 and Bhaskara were planted at three different planting systems, viz. ultra density (2.5 × 2.5 m), high density (5.0 × 5.0 m) and normal density (7.5 × 7.5 m) and evaluated for growth and yield traits. The heading back was carried out in ultra density planting during the last week of May in all the years. The results revealed significant differences for yield and related traits among cashew varieties under different plant densities. The maximum yield was recorded in variety H-130 planted at 2.5 × 2.5 m spacing during second year (1248 kg/ha), third year (2234 kg/ha) and fourth (2432 kg/ha) year of planting and minimum (154 kg/ha) was observed in variety Bhaskara at 2.5 × 2.5 m spacing. The variety H-130 performed well in all the three different planting systems compare to NRCC Sel. 2 and Bhaskara due to positive response of pruning.

Cashew nut shells are agro-waste after the flesh and oil have been extracted from edible cashew nut. In this study, cashew nut shells (CNS) were utilized as the raw material for obtaining purified cellulose. The modified acid hydrolysis method was used to isolate cellulose from dewaxed CNS using 7% (w/v) nitric acid, alkaline treatment (17.5% w/v NaOH) and bleaching with 3.5% (v/v) sodium hypochlorite solution (NaOCl). Micromophologies, chemical functional groups and thermal stabilities of the obtained crystalline cellulose samples were obtained via Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transforms Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Thermogravimetry Analysis (TGA) respectively. The presence of inherent elements such as C, Ca, Mg and Fe were obtained in the distinct rod-like shaped cellulose. Structural changes revealed via FTIR and XRD show that, after undergoing a temperature range of 300–400 ​°C ​± ​10%, a yield of 20.8% of highly crystalline cellulose whose crystallinity index of 77.7%. This implies that the CNS can be repurposed as raw material for the production of cellulose fibres that are used for packaging, reinforcement and binders for some industrial products.

The aim of this study is to evaluate the potential of cashew nutshell activated with H2SO4 as adsorbent for the removal of Cr and Mn (II) ions from wastewater. In this study, cashew nutshell (CNS) adsorbent was prepared using shells of cashew nut (Anacardium occidentale) by chemical activation. Cashew nutshells were crushed for size reduction and the resulting crushed shells were immersed in 1.0 mol L−1 H2SO4 at a rate of 1:10 (m/v) with a constant stirring at 60°C for 4 h. Proximate analysis was carried out according to standard analytical methods and determination of pH, bulk density, and iodine number was conducted. The morphology and functional groups present were investigated by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. The surface area, pore volume, and pore size distribution were also characterized by N2 adsorption at 77 K using BET. Continuous adsorption study in a fixed-bed column was carried out by using CNS as an adsorbent for the removal of chromium and manganese ions from electroplating wastewater. The effect of flow rate, influent concentration, and bed depth were investigated on the adsorption characteristics of the CNS adsorbent. Three dynamic model Clark, Yoon-Nelson, and Adams-Bohart were applied using the experimental data to predict the breakthrough curves using linear regression to determine the characteristic parameters of the column that are useful for process design. Significant values in the moisture, ash content, volatile matter, iodine number, and zero-point of charge were obtained on the adsorbent and compared to literature. SEM images revealed irregular pore structure before adsorption and pores of the CNS adsorbent were filled with chromium and manganese ions after adsorption. The FT-IR adsorption bands observed in the CNS sample confirmed the presence of hydroxyl (-OH), carbonyl, and carboxylic (-COOH) groups involved in sorption of chromium and manganese ions onto surface of CNS adsorbent. The result showed highest BET specific surface area of the adsorbent sample obtained as 608.2 m2/g, pore volume and diameter of 0.2209 cm3/g and 2.116 nm, respectively. The column parameters calculated showed the effectiveness of the column at a flow rate of 5.0 ml/min, bed height of 10 cm and concentration of 20.3 mg/l Mn ion and 21.05 mg/l Cr ion. The percentage removal of Cr ions was 56.40% at an adsorption capacity of 10.79 mg/g and the percentage removal of Mn (II) ions was 53.09%, at an adsorption capacity of 9.82 mg/g. The Yoon-Nelson and Clark models were found suitable for the description of the breakthrough curve. Results reveal that quality cashew nutshell (CNS) adsorbent can be produced from Cashew nutshell thereby serving as an alternative to commercial adsorbent for heavy metal removal from wastewater.

Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) is an export crop and source of income in Tanzania. However, its productivity is challenged by insect pests and diseases. Cashew Leaf and Nut Blight Disease (CLNBD) caused by Cryptosporipsis spp. has been cited as one of the most devastating diseases in Tanzania. Studies were conducted to investigate incidences and severities of CLNBD on cashew in farmers’ fields and elite cashew hybrids developed in 1996 and 1998 in eastern and southern zones of Tanzania. Furthermore, a screen house experiment was conducted to screen these hybrids against CLNBD at Naliendele Agricultural Research Institute (NARI), Mtwara, Tanzania. The results indicated significant differences (P＜0.001) in CLNBD incidences and severities in cashew in farmers’ fields across Bagamoyo, Nachingwea and Mtwara districts. Further, there were significant differences (P＜0.001) among hybrids in CLNBD severities in the screen house experiment. In ranking the elite cashew hybrids, 38 were tolerant and 14 were susceptible to CLNBD. This observation suggests that elite cashew hybrids developed in 1996 and 1998 are more tolerant to CLNBD compared to cashew found in farmers’ fields. These findings strongly suggest that the elite cashew hybrids can be recommended for commercial farming in Tanzania.

Several investigations are carried out involving antioxidant compounds from natural sources due to their importance in preventing the onset of oxidative reactions. Brazil has a rich biodiversity, having species with a high antioxidant potential already scientifically proven, and which has contributed to popular medicine. The objective of this work is to evaluate the antioxidant activity (AA0%) of the leaf, bark and mature and green pseudofruit of the Anacardium occidentale species through the qualitative and quantitative evaluation of the cashew tree by the radical sequestration capacity DPPH • (2,2-diphenyl- 1-picrylhydrazyl) of purple coloring. In the qualitative and quantitative analysis, the plant species presented antioxidant activity in all the tested concentrations (100, 200, 300, 400 and 500μg.mL1). The leaf was characterized by 80.43% AAO in the concentration of 500μg.mL -1 as well as its shell at the same concentration showed an antioxidant activity of 78.31%. The Folin-Ciocalteu method was able to determine the total phenol content (FT), with a leaf content of 0.0800 mg / g gallic acid, which is directly linked to antioxidant activity. Thus, it is well known that Anacardium occidentale is a species with excellent antioxidant activity, which will further contribute to the pharmacological and folk medicine industries.

The aphid, Aphis odinae (Van der Goot) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) is a polyphagous, occasional insect pest of cashew. A field survey was conducted from 2014 to 2015 in cashew plantations to record the incidence of aphid and its predators. Periodical sampling revealed, the occurrence of six species of aphidophagous predators comprising three species of coccinellids, viz., Scymnus castaneus Sicard, Cheilomenes sexmaculata (Fabricius) and Pseudaspidimerus flaviceps (Walker) and three species of syrphids, viz., Paragus serratus (Fabricius), Dideopsis aegrota (Fabricius) and Ischidon scutellaris (Fabricius) were found predating on A. odinae. All the immature stages of predators were found predating on first, second, third and fourth instars of the aphid. Among the coccinellids, the dominant species were S. castaneus (4.26 grubs/nut) followed by C. sexmaculata (0.42 grubs/leaf) and P. flaviceps (0.14 grubs/nut). Of the syrphids, P. serratus 2.39 larvae/nut was the major predator. The species D. aegrota (1.2 larvae/leaf) and I. scutellaris (0.5 larvae/nut) were recorded as minor predators. Seasonal abundance of predators was synchronized with the aphid with a maximum occurrence during February 2015. The aphid population gradually reduced from April onwards due to the voracious feeding activity of the predators. The study concluded that the aphidophagous predators, viz., coccinellids and syrphids play a major role in managing the aphid A. odinae in cashew and could be encouraged for augmentation and conservation of these predators in a cashew based ecosystem.

Background Cashew apple juice (CAJ) was shown to improve immunological mechanisms by regulating a balance between reactive oxygen species and antioxidant concentrations. However, no study exploring the effects of the CAJ and training status on the immune system and oxidative stress induced by exercise. Therefore, we investigated the effects of CAJ supplementation primarily on leukocyte counts and secondary on oxidative stress and cortisol changes after high-intensity exercise in trained and untrained men. Methods Ten moderately (endurance) trained (Age = 21.5 ± 0.97 yr., VO2max = 45.6 ± 4.12 mL/kgBM/min) and ten sedentary men (Age = 20.4 ± 2.72 yr., VO2peak = 32.2 ± 7.26 mL/kgBM/min) were randomized to ingest either daily CAJ or a placebo at 3.5 mL/kgBM/day for 4 weeks, with a four-week washout period. Before and after each period, they performed 20-min, high-intensity cycling (85% VO2max), with blood samples collected immediately preceding and the following exercise. Samples were analyzed to determine leukocyte counts, malondialdehyde, 8-isoprostane, and cortisol concentrations. A repeated measures analysis of variance was used to examine the effects of supplement and training status over time with an alpha level of 0.05. Results There was no interaction between supplement and training status on those variables before and after exercise. However, CAJ raised resting neutrophil counts and exercise-induced leukocyte counts in the trained group (all p

In this study, the effect of processing methods on the nutritional quality and functional properties of cashew (Anacardium occidentale Linn) kernels were investigated. The kernels were soaked, autoclaved, roasted or germinated at varying time duration; raw kernel served as control. The samples were analysed for chemical, mineral bioavailability and functional properties. Data was subjected to analysis of variance and means were separated by the Duncan multiple range test. The result of chemical composition analyses revealed that raw cashew kernels contained 3.55±0.08% moisture, 21.3±0.05% protein, 45.0±0.15% fat, 2.53±0.02% fibre, 1.59±0.02% ash, 26.1±0.01% carbohydrate, 521.75 Kcal/g energy, 2210.09±0.02mg/kg calcium, 1712.54±0.03mg/kg magnesium, 60.04±0.01 mg/kg iron and 36.74±0.02mg/kg zinc. Tannin, phytate and oxalate concentrations in the raw cashew kernel were 10.14±0.03 mg/kg, 99.30±0.02mg/kg and 11.03±0.03mg/kg respectively. Increased fat, ash and fibre levels were noted for treated samples compared to raw kernels. Mineral concentrations were increased significantly by various treatments compared to raw kernel; however, germination resulted in the highest increase of mineral content. A reduction trend was observed in phytate, oxalate and tannin concentrations in the treated samples with respect to increased processing time. Consequently, various treatments influenced the bioavailability of mineral elements. Treated samples exhibited significant differences in loose and packed bulk densities, water and oil absorption capacities when compared to raw kernels. Germination shows potential to generate not only much needed nutrients in cashew for human development, but also improved bioavailability of nutrients and functionality compared to other processing methods. This approach can used in Community Nutrition and Emergency Feeding Programmes, in developing countries, where the consequence of anti-nutritional factors may worsen the incidence of malnutrition and disease.

Abstrak PT Supa Surya Niaga adalah perusahaan pangan di Gedangan, Sidoarjo, Jawa Timur dengan produk utama kacang mete olahan. Penelitian ini bertujuan mengetahui efisiensi pemasok Kediri, pemasok Madura, pemasok Nusa Tenggara Barat dan perusahaan pada rantai pasok kacang mete PT Supa Surya Niaga pada tahun 2014, menganalisis variabel yang paling berpengaruh terhadap nilai efisiensi, serta mengevaluasi nilai target hasil potential improvement yang harus dipertahankan masing-masing variabel input. Metode yang digunakan adalah Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) model DEA-CCR (Charnes, Cooper & Rhodes) orientasi input dengan variabel input yaitu cash-to-cash cycle time, lead time, biaya rantai pasok, serta fleksibilitas. Variabel output yang digunakan adalah kesesuaian standar, pemenuhan pesanan, kinerja pengiriman, dan pendapatan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa nilai efisiensi rantai pasok untuk pemasok Kediri 93,675%, pemasok Madura 91,842%, pemasok Nusa Tenggara Barat 96,875%, serta untuk perusahaan 94,708% sehingga nilai efisiensi untuk rantai pasok kacang mete di PT Supa Surya Niaga tahun 2014 secara keseluruhan yaitu 94,275%.Variabel input yang paling berpengaruh terhadap nilai efisiensi rantai pasok kacang mete untuk pemasok Kediri adalah cash-to-cash cycle time, pemasok Madura dan Nusa Tenggara Barat yaitu variabel input lead time, sedangkan untuk rantai pasok perusahaan adalah biaya. Nilai target hasil potential improvement variabel input cash-to-cash cycle time, lead time dan fleksibilitas secara berurutan untuk pemasok Kediri yaitu 5, 7 dan 3 hari; Pemasok Madura yaitu 5, 7 dan 3 hari; Pemasok Nusa Tenggara Barat yaitu 7, 14 dan 7 hari; Perusahaan 5, 6 dan 5 hari sedangkan variabel input biaya untuk rantai pasok perusahaan adalah Rp1.225.537.523,07. Kata kunci: efisiensi, kacang mete, rantai pasok Abstract PT Supa Surya Niaga is a food company in Gedangan, Sidoarjo, East Java with processed cashew as it is main product. This study aimed to determine the efficiency of Kediri supplier, Madura Supplier, West Nusa Tenggara Supplier and the company itself in the cashew supply chain at PT Supa Surya Niaga in 2014, analyze the variables that most influence on the efficiency, and evaluate the target value from potential improvement that should be maintained by input variable. Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA)-CCR (Charnes, Cooper & Rhodes method with input oriented was used in this study. Input variables used in this study were cash-to-cash cycle time, lead time, supply chain cost and flexibility, meanwhile the output variables were standards conformance, order fulfillment, delivery performance and revenue. The result of study showed that the efficiency of Kediri supplier, Madura supplier, West Nusa Tenggara supplier, and the company itself were 93.675%, 91.842%, 96.875%, and 94.708% respectively. Overall, cashews supply chain efficiency at PT Supa Surya Niaga 2014 is 94.275%. The most influence Input variable on the efficiency were cash-to-cash cycle time for Kediri Supplier, lead time for Madura and West Nusa Tenggara supplier, and cost for the company. The target value from potential improvement of input variables cash-to-cash cycle time, lead time and flexibility in sequence for Kediri suppliers are 5, 7 and 3 days; Madura suppliers are 5, 7 and 3 days; West Nusa Tenggara Suppliers are 7, 14 and 7 days; The company supply chain is 5, 6 and 5 days while the input cost variable for the company is Rp1.225.537.523.07. Keywords: cashew, efficiency, supply chain

Cerambycidae Diastocera trifasciata attacks were studied from October 2015 to September 2017 in three cashew tree orchards in the locality of Brobo in central Côte d’Ivoire. One hundred fifty-three (153) cashew trees, arranged on a diagonal from each orchard, were selected for sampling. The attacked plants and the branches cut per tree were counted every 15 days. Biotic parameters, namely phenological stages of trees, and abiotic factors, which are rainfall, relative humidity and average temperature, were recorded throughout the study. Attacks were observed from mid-September to January from the pre-flowering vegetative stage to the flowering stage. Attack period duration was therefore four and a half months per year. The peak of attacks was recorded in November with an attack rate of 88.02% in 2015 and 75.49% in 2016. No attack was recorded from February to mid-September, corresponding to the flowering, fruiting and post-harvest vegetative growth stages. This description of the attack process and the determination of D. trifasciata attack periods provides essential data for the implementation of an effective and sustainable control method of this species.

Pistachio and cashew contain allergenic proteins, which causes them to be removed from the diet of allergic people. Previous studies have demonstrated that food processing (thermal and non-thermal) can produce structural and/or conformational changes in proteins by altering their allergenic capacity. In this study, the influence of instant controlled pressure drop (DIC) on pistachio and cashew allergenic capacity has been studied. Western blot was carried out using IgG anti-11S and anti-2S and IgE antibodies from sera of patients sensitized to pistachio and cashew. DIC processing causes changes in the electrophoretic pattern, reducing the number and intensity of protein bands, as the pressure and temperature treatment increment, which results in a remarkable decrease in detection of potentially allergenic proteins. The harshest conditions of DIC (7 bar, 120 s) markedly reduce the immunodetection of allergenic proteins, not only by using IgG (anti 11S and anti 2S) but also when IgE sera from sensitized patients were used for Western blots. Such immunodetection is more affected in pistachio than in cashew nuts, but is not completely removed. Therefore, cashew proteins are possibly more resistant than pistachio proteins. According these findings, instant controlled pressure drop (DIC) can be considered a suitable technique in order to obtain hypoallergenic tree nut flour to be used in the food industry.

Tree nuts confer many health benefits due to their high content of vitamins and antioxidants, and they are increasingly consumed in the last few years. Food processing is an important industrial tool to modify allergenic properties of foods, in addition to ensuring safety and enhancing organoleptic characteristics. The effect of high pressure, without and with heating, on SDS-PAGE and immunodetection profile of potential allergenic proteins (anti-11S, anti-2S and anti-LTP) of pistachio, cashew, peanut, hazelnut, almond, and chestnut was investigated. Processing based on heat and/or pressure and ultra-high pressure (HHP, 300−600 MPa) without heating was applied. After treating the six tree nuts with pressure combined with heat, a progressive diminution of proteins with potential allergenic properties was observed. Moreover, some tree nuts proteins (pistachio, cashew, and peanut) seemed to be more resistant to technological processing than others (hazelnut and chestnut). High pressure combined with heating processing markedly reduce tree nut allergenic potential as the pressure and treatment time increases. HHP do not alter hazelnut and almond immunoreactivity.

Weaver ants are used for biological control of insect pests in plantation crops. To obtain proper pest control, ant densities need to be high. Food availability and nesting facilities on host plants and management practices may affect ant performance. In the present study, we tested the effect of two host plant species (mango and cashew) and three different management practices (ants only, ants fed with sugar and ants combined with the soft chemical insecticide Spinosad) on weaver ant performance. Performance was assessed over a 22 month period, as an index value based on the number of ant trails per tree and as the number of ant nests per tree. A total of 216 trees (72 per treatment) were observed in each crop. In all treatments, the ants performed better in mango compared to cashew. Using the index based performance measure, ants also performed better in the sugar treatment as compared to the two other treatments, whereas this was not the case in cashew. We conclude that sugar feeding can be used to increase ant populations in mango. We also found that the treatment with Spinosad in combination with ants showed performance equal to the treatments with only ants, suggesting that Spinosad did not negatively affect ant populations. We therefore conclude that Spinosad is compatible with the use of weaver ants in integrated pest management programs.

Surveys were conducted from 2011 to 2015 in cashew plantations to document the parasitoids of cashew leaf miner. Three eulophid parasitoids, viz., Chrysocharis sp., Closterocerus sp. and Aprostocetus sp. were recorded for the first time as parasitoids on the larvae of Cashew Leaf Miner, Acrocercops syngramma Meyrick (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae). Among the parasitoids, Chrysocharis sp. was dominant recording 99.0 % abundance. The parasitism of leaf miner larvae was observed from September onwards, which reached its peak during November coinciding with the population of leaf miner larvae. Chrysocharis sp. was found to be a solitary parasitoid, completing its life cycle within the mine of leaf miner and emerging as an adult. Parasitization was noticed only on the third and fourth instar leaf miner larvae but not on the first and second instar larvae. In cashew plantations, leaf miner parasitism ranged from 37 to 58% by Chrysocharis sp.

Surveys were conducted from 2011 to 2015 in cashew plantations to document the parasitoids of cashew leaf miner. Three eulophid parasitoids, viz., Chrysocharis sp., Closterocerus sp. and Aprostocetus sp. were recorded for the first time as parasitoids on the larvae of Cashew Leaf Miner, Acrocercops syngramma Meyrick (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae). Among the parasitoids, Chrysocharis sp. was dominant recording 99.0 % abundance. The parasitism of leaf miner larvae was observed from September onwards, which reached its peak during November coinciding with the population of leaf miner larvae. Chrysocharis sp. was found to be a solitary parasitoid, completing its life cycle within the mine of leaf miner and emerging as an adult. Parasitization was noticed only on the third and fourth instar leaf miner larvae but not on the first and second instar larvae. In cashew plantations, leaf miner parasitism ranged from 37 to 58% by Chrysocharis sp.

The present study has documented egg parasitism in Tropical Tasar Silkworm for the first time. The parasitoid is Anastatus leithi (Walker) belonging to Eupelmidae family. It is a solitary koinobiont endoparasitoid, emerges out as adults from the tasar eggs in 17-20 days during August- September. The parasitism rate was recorded at 11.90 percentage.

The micronutrient status of the soils and leaf of cocoa, kola, cashew and coffee plantations to study the soil-plant micronutrient content relationship in the plantation soils for proper management towards optimum production of the crops was investigated at Uhonmora, Edo State, Nigeria. Soil and leaf samples were collected from these plantations and analyzed according to standard laboratory procedures. The soil samples were analyzed for the micronutrients (Cu, Mn, Zn and Fe) and in addition pH, organic carbon, sand, silt and clay contents, while the leaves were analyzed for only the micronutrient contents. Results indicated that the soils were sandy loam, acidic, low in organic carbon, deficient in Cu and Mn but very high in Fe and Zn contents. This probably resulted in nutrient imbalance in the soils and the deficiency of the nutrients in the crops. The plantations therefore require application of organic manures and micronutrient fertilizers to rectify the inadequate soil organic matter and to supply sufficient amount of Cu and Mn in the soils, to obtain quality fruit yield at optimum level from the plantations.