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Summary: This study compared the furan levels and physicochemical properties of various 70 samples of five nuts (peanuts, almonds, cashew nuts, hazelnuts, and sacha inchi) roasted using an air fryer (AF) and microwave oven (MO). In the five nuts, furan levels ranged from 1.11 to 2.39 ng g−1 before roasting. As the AF‐based and MO‐based roasting progressed, the furan levels increased to 6.39–165.52 ng g−1 and 11.47–183.87 ng g−1, respectively. The contents of polyunsaturated fatty acids (linoleic acid and linolenic acid) decreased significantly after roasting but the content of monounsaturated fatty acid (oleic acid) showed only slightly significant differences between the control and roasted nuts. The total phenolic content and antioxidant activity increased by up to 337% and 218% as roasting progressed but decreased slightly when roasting was performed at 180 °C for 20 min in an AF or at 700 or 1000 W for 5 min in an MO. This study provides useful information on furan production and the changes in physicochemical properties such as fatty acid composition, colour, BI, TPC, and antioxidant activity of nuts roasted using an AF or MO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fast developing world is in search of measures to control the accumulation of unused by‐products and waste materials generated during the production of useful commodities. Accordingly, wastes from agro‐industrial sectors can form raw materials for the production of various resources that are extensively used in many areas such as gas sorption and energy production. In the present work, cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL), the vesicant liquid present in the outer shell of cashew seed, forms the source material for the synthesis of porous organic polymers for carbon dioxide capture. Herein, novel types of hypercrosslinked polymers (HCPs) are synthesized via a simple Friedel–Crafts reaction with CNSL as the starting material. Polymerization of natural CNSL with dimethoxymethane/bis‐(chloromethyl)‐biphenyl as external crosslinker provides products in quantitative yield. One of the synthesized HCP is tuned to attain the required high porosity by carbonization at elevated temperatures using an activator. Thus, activated carbon material prepared at 700°C is found to have a high surface area of 880 m2/g with a good carbon dioxide adsorption capacity of 14.72 wt%. These porous materials had moderate isosteric heat of adsorption (23–31 kJ/mol) with excellent recycling capability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses a study on sunflower seed allergy, specifically focusing on the allergenicity of seed-storage 2S-albumins found in sunflower seeds. The study found that patients allergic to sunflower seeds were also sensitized to certain proteins, which were found to be more potent in triggering allergic reactions. The study suggests that IgE sensitization to these proteins may be a marker of clinical severity in sunflower seed allergy. Further research is needed to evaluate the allergenicity of other proteins in sunflower seeds. The study was supported by SOFIPROTEOL as part of the FASO PRODIAL project, and the authors declare no conflicts of interest. [Extracted from the article]

For microwave‐assisted heating, accurate knowledge of the dielectric properties (DPs) plays a key role for optimizing the heating process. In this paper, the DPs of four different bread dough formulations are presented from 300 MHz to 20 GHz. The base dough was prepared with almond powder, coconut powder, eggs, cashew nut powder, ghee butter, and cardamom. In addition, three more honey‐sweetened formulations were prepared with honey, goat milk and cacao. The DPs were measured during the complete baking process, from room temperature up to 80°C. It is shown that in all cases, ε′ and ε″ decrease as frequency increases. In addition, a second‐order Debye equation was extracted for all formulations showing two relaxation times (τ1 and τ2), which can be seen in the Cole–Cole plot. Moreover, it is shown that in all formulations, as temperature increases, ε′ and ε″ also increase, which is a typical trend for low moisture foods. Finally, the penetration depths are calculated for all formulations. Practical Applications: The dielectric properties (DPs) of four different bread dough formulations are provided covering a wide band in the microwave range from 300 MHz to 20 GHz. DPs are useful for the development of microwave‐assisted heating applications, where prior knowledge of the DPs permits the optimization of the heating process. In addition, penetration depth is necessary as this parameter allows to calculate the maximum depth that the microwave energy will heat up the sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To alleviate the environmental hazard and minimize the practice of utilizing fossil fuel‐based precursors in the production of benzoxazines, sustainable bio‐phenol precursors namely magnolol and bio‐based amine furan‐2yl‐methanamine have been utilized to synthesize bio‐benzoxazine and was cured and characterized. The curing temperature of the synthesized bio‐benzoxazine monomer was found to be 216°C. Utilizing the carbon obtained from two different bio‐sources namely, chicken feather and cashew nut shell cake bio‐polybenzoxazine composites were prepared. The char yield of bio‐carbon reinforced bio‐polybenzoxazine composites was enhanced to 65% compared to that of neat polybenzoxazine (60%). The value of the dielectric constant of neat polybenzoxazine was found to be 5.52 which was further improved to a maximum of 8.9 and 7.8 on reinforcement of 15 wt% chicken feather carbon and 15 wt% cashew nut shell cake carbon respectively. The prepared bio‐polybenzoxazine composites exhibit a near superhydrophobic nature with the value of water repulsive angle at 150° than that of neat matrix (143°). From the obtained results, it is suggested that the sustainable bio‐carbon reinforced bio‐based benzoxazine will be a promising material for thermally stable, high dielectric, and water‐repellent applications. Highlights: Eco‐friendly, sustainable magnolol‐based bio‐benzoxazine was synthesized.Waste valorization for bio‐carbon—poultry, and agricultural wastes were utilized.Bio‐carbon reinforcement marginally increases the thermal stability of composites.Bio‐carbon reinforced composites exhibit close to superhydrophobic nature.Incorporation of bio‐carbon enhances the value of dielectric constant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Amine‐based deep eutectic mixtures composed of choline chloride and a DEA‐based hydrogen‐bond donor (HBD) can be used in various molar ratios such as 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6 and 1:7 for isolation of cardanol from cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL). RESULTS: In this study, green techniques were created to extract cardanol from CNSL by utilizing a deep eutectic solvent (DES) based on diethanolamine with various molar ratios [hydrogen‐bond acceptor (HBA): HBD] of 1:2, 1:3,1:4,1:5, 1:6 and 1:7. To enhance cardanol's solubility in DES, promote phase separation, and increase cardanol yield, ethyl acetate (EA) and isobutyl methyl ketone (IBMK) could be utilized as co‐solvents. At temperatures ranging from 293 to 343.15 K and 1 atm, the density of various molar ratios of DES was determined. Additionally, the prepared DES pH behaviour as well as the relationship between pH and temperature were investigated. All investigated DES temperature increases caused a decrease in pH value. By using thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), similar molar ratios of amine‐based DESs were studied for their thermal stability in terms of decomposition temperature, mass loss and melting temperature. The melting temperature and thermal stability were both increased when the HBD increased. The thermal stability of DES, which mostly depends on intermolecular interactions, is greatly influenced by HBD. Finally, at T = 298.15 K and 1 atm, cardanol was extracted from 50 mL CNSL using different volumes of various molar ratios of DES (100 mL, 75 mL, 50 mL and 25 mL) together with 25 mL IBMK and 25 mL EA. The extracted cardanol was evaluated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. CONCLUSION: It was observed that the yields of cardanol from each prepared molar ratios ratio of 100 mL DES were 96.57%, 95.38% and 92.87%, respectively. In this study, the sigma potential and sigma profile of chosen HBA and HBD were determined using conductor‐like screening model for real solvents (COSMO‐RS), and the interactions between the molecules during the extraction process were analyzed. The findings demonstrated the viability of using the chosen DESs for the polyphenol extraction process. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dominance of a few staple crops (maize, rice, and wheat) in most agricultural systems hampers the application of interventions to improve food security and nutrition. Research and development attention has focused on improving the production and utilization of these crops, leaving other crops under‐researched and underutilized. Subsequently, there have been high malnutrition rates due to poor diet diversity, yet there are "opportunity crops" that remain under researched. The opportunity crops can unlock solutions to food insecurity, malnutrition, a lack of biodiversity, and indeed poor climate adaptation. The study explored diversification in agricultural systems to analyze whether reorientation of research investment to include under‐researched crops can increase nutrient gain and enhance dietary diversity. Research outputs benchmarked as the number of publications from three leading African universities, Nairobi, Pretoria, and Ghana, were related to crop diversity and nutrition of crops in five clusters: cereals, vegetables, legumes, roots and tubers, and nuts. The findings show that maize was the predominantly researched crop across the three institutions. Low research outputs were observed for pearl millet, finger millet, and yam across the three institutions: amaranth and nightshade (Pretoria), sweet potatoes (Pretoria and Ghana), Marama bean (Nairobi), and soya bean (Nairobi and Ghana). There was nutrient gain across all five clusters, particularly from under‐researched indigenous crops such as finger millet, amaranth, nightshade, yam, sweet potatoes, Marama bean, and soybean. Nutrient gain was contributed more by cereals and root and tuber crops from Pretoria, vegetables and nuts (Ghana), as well as legumes (Nairobi). The findings demonstrate that incorporating research on the least researched crops with successful integration of other research and development initiatives (policy and dissemination) can increase nutrition and improve dietary diversity. The nutrient gain will positively affect food security and nutrition, contributing to the achievement of Africa Agenda 2063, the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals, and reducing food imports. The findings can inform research investment and decision across different institutions within the African continent. Research investment targeting crops such as finger millet, amaranthus, sweet potatoes, soya beans, and cashew nuts is needed considering the nutritional contribution, climate change adaptability, market potential, and biodiversity contribution. Further analysis should explore production, socio‐economic (marketability and income generation), and environmental gains (adaptive ability to climate change) for specific crops. The development of frameworks to guide the analysis of the nature and scope of factors affecting the contribution of these crops to food security and nutrition, as well as research on specific crops considering geographic distribution and institutional involvement, is also needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effects of hot air circulation roasting temperature on cashew nut sensory and aroma profiles were assessed in this study. Optimal roasting at 130°C for 20 min yielded a uniform, glossy appearance and rapid water loss. Sensory and electronic nose (E‐nose) analyses indicated enhanced sweet, milky, and fatty aromas. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry identified more than 180 volatile compounds. Roasting at 150°C for 20 min produced a burnt aroma, with a decrease in alkenes and aromatic hydrocarbons and an increase in alkanes, acids, ketones, and pyrazines. Principal component analysis distinguished between 130 and 150°C roasting samples, and key volatile compounds included phenylethanol, 1‐octen‐3‐ol, naphthalene, (−)‐alpha pinene, trans caryophyllene, 2,5‐dimethylpyrazine, 2‐methylbutyr‐aldehyde, heptaldehyde, 2,3,5‐trimethylpyrazine, and n‐octanol. Compared to traditional roasting, hot air circulation roasting offers efficiency, convenience, energy savings, and environmental benefits. Practical applications: Cashew nuts are esteemed as a nutritious treat mainly due to their profound taste and elevated nutrient content. This research explored the influence of applying hot air circulation during the roasting procedure on various aspects of physical and chemical properties, flavor, and energy consumption. By establishing a systematic theoretical model of the process, this work can effectively manipulate the roasting parameters to attain an optimal flavor profile desirable for cashew nuts. Moreover, the efficiency of this novel approach outperforms conventional techniques, offering substantial energy cost savings, and showcasing its virtues of high efficacy, eco‐friendliness, and environmental preservation. The investigation revealed that utilizing hot air circulation leads to cashew nuts possessing a superior gustatory sensation and nutritional profile. Therefore, it can safely be stated that hot air circulation roasting could serve as an exemplary methodology for household nut manufacturing, thereby warranting further consideration of this innovative technique in private nut production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomass and other biogenic wastes can be used in polymeric materials, allowing for effective waste utilization. Thus, these materials can be converted into biochar and used in composite fabrication. Biochar was used in the current study to improve the mechanical and thermal properties of vinyl ester‐based composites. Waste cashew nut shells were converted into biochar via a slow pyrolysis method. Biochar was added at three different levels (5, 10 and 15 wt.%). Composite with 10 wt.% biochar showed ca.72% and ca.54% higher tensile strength and hardness than the neat vinyl ester. The composite containing 15 wt.% biochar showed the highest impact and flexural strength of ca.47 MPa and ca.13 kJ/m2 respectively. The thermo‐gravimetric study showed that the composites with 15 wt.% added biochar performed better than the others, with a yield percentage of ca.45%. This study provides a summary of biochar applications and highlights the advantages of biomass wastes with respect to energy and environmental sustainability for the production of strong and thermally stable composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology guideline provides recommendations for diagnosing IgE‐mediated food allergy and was developed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) approach. Food allergy diagnosis starts with an allergy‐focused clinical history followed by tests to determine IgE sensitization, such as serum allergen‐specific IgE (sIgE) and skin prick test (SPT), and the basophil activation test (BAT), if available. Evidence for IgE sensitization should be sought for any suspected foods. The diagnosis of allergy to some foods, such as peanut and cashew nut, is well supported by SPT and serum sIgE, whereas there are less data and the performance of these tests is poorer for other foods, such as wheat and soya. The measurement of sIgE to allergen components such as Ara h 2 from peanut, Cor a 14 from hazelnut and Ana o 3 from cashew can be useful to further support the diagnosis, especially in pollen‐sensitized individuals. BAT to peanut and sesame can be used additionally. The reference standard for food allergy diagnosis is the oral food challenge (OFC). OFC should be performed in equivocal cases. For practical reasons, open challenges are suitable in most cases. Reassessment of food allergic children with allergy tests and/or OFCs periodically over time will enable reintroduction of food into the diet in the case of spontaneous acquisition of oral tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aimed to identify the chemical constituents and bioactivities of the crude ethanolic extract (CEE) and its fractions (ethyl acetate (EAF), hexane (HEF), and aqueous (AEF)) from leaves of cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) grown in Vietnam. A total of 31 compounds which belong to alkanes, hydrocarbons, iodine, terpenoids, phenolics, and flavonoids were determined by a gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis, with bis(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate being the most prevailing compound. The highest total phenolic and flavonoid contents were obtained in the EAF, followed by HEF, CEE, and AQF. All samples showed promising in vitro antibacterial activity, enzyme inhibition, and anticancer activity. Among the samples tested, the EAF exhibited the highest enzyme inhibition activity against α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase (IC50 values of 51.24 μg/mL and 99.29 μg/mL, respectively), cytotoxicity activity against HeLa cells (IC50 value of 79.49 μg/mL), and antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli with MIC values of 5 mg/mL and 2.5 mg/mL, respectively. These findings suggest that the leaves of A. occidentale cultivated in Vietnam are a promising source of bioactive components and that EAF is a promising bioactive material warranting further pharmaceutical investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Activated carbon (AC) is a key material in numerous industrial applications, including wastewater treatment, catalysis, personal care products, and pharmaceutical industry. Producing AC from waste biomass is of much interest since the environmental footprint is low and the economics are favorable for most applications. Cashew nut husk (CNH) and cashew nut shell (CNS) are typically considered wastes in the cashew nut processing industry. Synthesis of AC from CNH and CNS allows value addition of these materials and improves the economic prospects of the cashew nut processing industry. Herein, we report the production of AC by carbonization of CNH and CNS using orthophosphoric acid as the activating agent. The results showed that 700 °C is a suitable activation temperature for CNH, whereas 500 °C was enough for activating CNS. The AC samples were extensively characterized by FTIR, PXRD, BET, and FESEM‐EDX analysis. The AC produced from CNH at 700 °C (H‐700) exhibited a very high specific surface area and iodine number of 1511 m2/g and 961 mg/g, respectively. Therefore, H‐700 was used for adsorbing methylene blue from water as a model for wastewater treatment. The H‐700 sample showed an adsorption capacity of 520 mg/g with good recyclability up to five cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: A combination of enzymes and ultrasound treatment was employed to extract bioactive compounds from cashew nut testa, a by‐product of the food industry. The total catechin, flavonoid, and phenolic content of extracts was investigated together with their biological activity. RESULTS: Enzyme and ultrasound‐assisted extraction (E‐UAE) was performed by incubation with Viscozyme L (20 mL kg−1 of testa powder, v/w) for 60 min before sonication for 40 min. Ultrasound and enzyme‐assisted extraction (U‐EAE) was carried out using sonication for 40 min before incubation with Viscozyme L (20 mL kg−1 of testa powder) for 60 min. Under appropriate conditions, the total phenolic, flavonoid, catechin, and epigallocatechin gallate content of the extracts from cashew nut testa obtained from a combination method (U‐EAE or E‐UAE) was significantly higher than that obtained using a single method (EAE or UAE). Extracts of cashew nut testa obtained from E‐UAE displayed significantly higher antioxidant and α‐amylase inhibitory activity than those from the U‐EAE. The E‐UAE extract at a concentration of 100 μg mL−1 had a greater impact on the cell viability of MCF‐7 after treatment (22% cell viability) than did the doxorubicin (DOX) at 4 μg mL−1 (39% cell viability), and the E‐UAE extract at 100 μg mL−1 was considered to be safe for healthy cells because the viability of the bovine aerotic endothelial cells treated with this extract was 91%, which was similar to the DOX treatment. CONCLUSION: The extract of cashew nut testa obtained from E‐UAE is valuable and promising for the development of anti‐inflammatory therapeutic drugs. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rising of diseases caused by multidrug‐resistant bacteria has encouraged researchers to explore more antimicrobial substances, as well as chemicals capable of potentiating the action of existing ones against multidrug‐resistant bacteria. Anacardium occidentale produces a fruit known as cashew nut, filled with a dark, almost black, caustic, and flammable liquid called cashew nutshell liquid (CNSL). The goal of the study was to evaluate the intrinsic antimicrobial activity of the major compounds present in CNSL, called anacardic acids (AA), as well as their possible modulatory action as an adjuvant of Norfloxacin against a Staphylococcus aureus strain overproducing the NorA efflux pump (SA1199B). Microdilution assays were performed to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of AA against different microbial species. Norfloxacin and Ethidium Bromide (EtBr) resistance modulation assays were performed in the presence or absence of AA against SA1199‐B. AA showed antimicrobial activity against Gram‐positive bacterial strains tested but no activity against Gram‐negative bacteria or yeast strains. At subinhibitory concentration, AA reduced the MIC values for Norfloxacin and EtBr against the SA1199‐B strain. Furthermore, AA increased the intracellular accumulation of EtBr in this NorA overproducer strain, indicating that AA are NorA inhibitors. Docking analysis showed that AA probably modulates Norfloxacin efflux by spatial impediment at the same binding site of NorA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate the effects of blending cashew nutshell oil modified phenolic resin and nitrile rubber (NBR) on the thermal, mechanical, and tribological performance of brake friction materials. The friction materials, which have a total binder of 25 wt% and different ratios of cashew nutshell oil modified phenolic resin and NBR, were prepared by hot press molding process. The experimental results show that NBR is beneficial to improve the hardness and compression modulus of the brake friction materials. The coefficient of friction (COF) is proportional to the wear rate, when the ratio of cashew nutshell oil modified phenolic resin and NBR is 13:12, the friction material has good heat resistance and exhibits excellent friction stability in the braking process, and the COF is steady between 0.420 and 0.448 at different braking speeds, while the wear resistance of material is optimal. The worn surfaces of the friction materials were examined by scanning electron microscope, and it was determined that the friction film is predominantly secondary plateaus, which can stabilize the COF and reduce the wear rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To reduce peanut allergy prevalence, infant feeding guidelines now recommend introducing peanuts in an age‐appropriate form (such as peanut butter) as part of complementary feeding. However, due to a lack of randomized trial evidence, most infant feeding and food allergy prevention guidelines do not include tree nuts. The aims of this trial were to determine safety and feasibility of dosage consumption recommendations for infant cashew nut spread introduction. Methods: This is a parallel, three‐arm (1:1:1 allocation), single‐blinded (outcome assessors), randomized controlled trial. General population term infants were randomized at 6–8 months of age to either a one teaspoon (Intervention 1 n = 59) or increasing dosage regime of one teaspoon at 6–7 months, two teaspoons at 8–9 months, and three teaspoons from 10 months of age onwards (Intervention 2 n = 67) cashew nut spread, both three times per week, or no specific advice on cashew introduction (Control n = 70). At 1 year of age, food challenge proven IgE‐mediated cashew nut allergy was assessed. Results: Compliance in Intervention 1 (92%) was higher than Intervention 2 (79%), p =.04. Only one infant had delayed (at 5 h) facial swelling and eczema flare to cashew introduction at 6.5 months, but no cashew allergy at 1 year. Only one infant (Control) had cashew allergy at 1 year, and this infant had not been introduced to cashew prior to 12 months of age. Conclusion: Regular infant consumption of one teaspoon of cashew nut spread three times per week from 6 to 8 months of age was found to be feasible and safe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plantation crops in tropical human‐modified landscapes provide alternative habitats to biodiversity outside protected areas. The Western Ghats of India are home to a mosaic of closely spaced habitats, including forests and agroecosystems. Cashew is a widely grown plantation crop in the northern Western Ghats and is known to provide economic and societal benefits. However, its role as a supplementary habitat for anurans is not well understood. We assessed the factors that influence understorey anuran composition and abundance in cashew plantations, forest edges, and forest interiors in Tillari Conservation Reserve, Maharashtra. Species composition of cashew plantations differed significantly from forests and was positively influenced by understorey and canopy cover. Cashew plantations had a near equal abundance of anurans as that of forest edges and interiors, which could be due to the preponderance of habitat generalists. Understorey positively influenced anuran abundance while ambient temperature had a negative influence. Reduced understorey and low canopy cover represent habitat modifications that occur in cashew plantations. Such structural changes could lead to reduced environmental refuges for anurans, thereby exposing them to large variations in temperature and moisture. Cashew plantations in Tillari Conservation Reserve serve as supplementary habitats for anurans. That said, cashew cultivation practices and markets must be understood before biodiversity‐friendly plantation practices are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last decades, there is an increasing trend for replacing petro‐based adhesives with sustainable and eco‐friendly alternatives, especially in the wood industry. In this work it was developed and characterized novolac‐type phenolic resins from the full use of the cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL), an agro‐industrial residue and a rich source of phenolic compounds, sustainable alternative to petroleum‐derived chemicals, to develop bio‐based polymers. CNSL and paraformaldehyde were reacted, using oxalic acid as a catalyst, under a solvent‐free methodology. A dark and viscous resin of high molar mass and thermally stable was obtained. The development of highly bio‐based adhesives was proposed by combining CNSL‐based novolac resin (CNSL‐nov) with commercial epoxy resin (DGEBA), as an alternative to conventional hardeners. The use of the epoxy‐novolac system proved to be efficient and promising in obtaining new highly cross‐linked polymers with excellent thermal performance and with potential for wood industry, improving the bio‐based content of high‐performance adhesive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Powdery mildew is currently the most important disease of the cashew plant across all producing regions of Brazil. A recent study reported the occurrence of Erysiphe quercicola as the causal agent of the symptoms on leaves, inflorescences, pseudofruits and kernels. Morphological evidence raised the question of whether different hosts of the fungus occur in areas near to cashew orchards. This study was developed to compare the fungi that cause powdery mildew in plants in the cashew ecosystem in order to understand the host relationships, and raising the possibility that alternative hosts are involved in the epidemics verified in the cashew tree. The work consisted of collecting samples of plants with symptoms of powdery mildew and carrying out morphological, phylogenetic and cross‐pathogenicity analysis of the fungal pathogens. The results of this characterization showed that annatto (Bixa orellana), sombrero (Clitoria fairchildiana) and mango (Mangifera indica) are possible alternative hosts of E. quercicola pathogenic to cashew and can therefore represent a source of inoculum for cashew powdery mildew. In addition, the occurrence of this pathogen in mango in Brazil was identified for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the adoption of cash crops among smallholder farmers is meant to increase the commercialisation and profitability of agriculture, it is still unclear if cashew farmers are better off or worst off from cashew farming in Sub-Saharan Africa. The study investigated the overall effects of cashew production on household livelihoods among smallholder farmers in the Transitional Zone of Ghana. The study employed a mixed research methods design for data collection and analysis. These methods included focus group discussions (FGDs), key informant interviews (KIIs), and a survey of 239 cashew-farming households. The results revealed both positive and negative outcomes for farmers and their households. First, the positive outcomes included increased income, enhanced social status, improved food and nutrition, housing and education. Second, the negative outcomes included increased theft, high cost of goods and services, high cost of living, and a rise in physical health problems among farmers. The study concludes that, overall, cashew farmers and their households experienced improved livelihoods despite the negative effects arising from cashew farming. To maximise the livelihood outcomes of smallholder cashew farmers, we underscore the importance of a multi-stakeholder approach to development planning that promotes innovations in training, extension support, and sound financial and business management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cashew ( I Anacardium occidentale i ) is considered a seed belonging to the I Anacardiaceae i family growing on the bottom of the cashew apple.[1] Cashew allergy is increasing, and it is one of the most common nut allergies in the United Kingdom[[2], [4], [6]] and in Switzerland.[7] Physicians and patients should be aware of cashew's potential cross-reactivity to other allergens in a wide range of foods, that can represent possible clinically relevant allergic triggers, for example, pistachio or pink peppercorn.[8] Children allergic to cashew need to strictly avoid the food and carry appropriate emergency medications as severe allergic reactions are possible. In conclusion, although patient cohorts had similar IgE sensitization, between two large tertiary allergy centers in Europe, the outcomes differed with a lower proportion of positive cashew OFCs and anaphylaxis occurring in London compared to Geneva. [Extracted from the article]

The severity of cashew nut allergy was dichotomized into mild to moderate cashew nut allergy (i.e. oFASS-3 grade 1 and 2) versus severe cashew nut allergy (i.e. oFASS-3 grade 3). Patients with a severe cashew nut allergy tended to have higher median IgE levels against both cashew nut extract and Ana o 3 than patients with mild to moderate cashew nut allergy, but this was not statistically significant ( I p i = .43 vs. I p i = .42, respectively; Figure 2). Keywords: Ana o 3; cashew nut allergy; cashew nut extract; diagnostic value; severity EN Ana o 3 cashew nut allergy cashew nut extract diagnostic value severity 880 882 3 08/14/23 20230801 NES 230801 Key messages We undertook a diagnostic test accuracy study in 43 adults with a suspected cashew nut allergy. [Extracted from the article]

Editorial Comment on "Feasibility and safety of introducing cashew nut spread in infant diets - a randomized trial" Despite such promising findings, the trial was insufficiently powered to determine the efficacy of primary allergy (cashew allergy) prevention. The trial's findings included cashew nut sensitization and allergy, as indicated by skin prick tests and oral food challenges at 1 year. [Extracted from the article]

This article reports the room temperature, gram‐scale synthesis of a novel, bio‐based 4',5'‐dintro anacardic acid copper(II) complex (2 : 1 form) and its application as a homogeneous catalyst for room temperature synthesis of 1,4‐napthoquinone based indolizines. The bio‐based 4',5'‐dinitro anacardic acid copper(II) complex was derived from cashew nut shell liquid which is a renewable but underutilized agro by‐product of the cashew industry. The synthesized copper complex was characterized through different techniques such as FT‐IR, UV, ESI‐MS, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, TGA, ICP‐MPAES, and HPLC analysis. To evaluate catalyst performance, the synthesis of indolizine resulting from a three component reaction of 1, 4‐naphthoquinone, pyridine, and ethyl acetoacetate was taken as a model reaction. Due to structural advantages, performance of the catalyst was excellent over the conventional copper salts in an array of green solvents. Further, the catalyst performance was tested using 3‐substituted pyridines in model reaction and gave excellent regioselectivity. This article highlights the novel applications of naturally occurring anacardic acid and its copper derivatives in organic transformations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the absence of a clear clinical history of reaction, diagnosis of cashew allergy using skin prick tests (SPT) or cashew‐specific IgE requires a high number of oral food challenges (OFC). By using Ana o 3 sIgE alone, or a two‐step diagnostic algorithm using cashew sIgE followed by Ana o 3 sIgE, there is a reduced need for OFC. We aimed to perform a cost comparison for both of these approaches compared with cashew SPT alone. Methods: Pooled individual‐level data from 6 studies were used to determine diagnostic accuracy and OFC rate. Two studies used cashew SPT (n = 567, 198 allergic), with 95% positive and negative predictive values of ≥12 mm and <3 mm. Four studies were included in the pathways for Ana o 3 sIgE alone or a 2‐step algorithm incorporating cashew and Ana o 3 sIgE (n = 271, 156 allergic). Cut‐offs used were ≥8.5kUA/L and ≤0.1kUA/L for cashew sIgE and ≥0.35kUA/L and ≤0.1kUA/L for Ana o 3 sIgE. Costs were constructed based on unit prices from hospital inpatient admissions, expenses incurred by families, individual patient data on allergic reaction types and rates, and adrenaline autoinjector carriage, applying a health system perspective. Results: Modeled data through the Ana o 3 pathway resulted in a 46.43% cost reduction (€307,406/1000 patients) compared with using cashew SPT alone (€573,854/1000 patients). The 2‐step algorithm resulted in a 44.94% cost reduction compared with SPT alone (€315,952.82/1000 patients). Both the Ana o 3 pathway and 2‐step algorithm resulted in a 79%–80% reduction in OFCs compared with SPT. Conclusions: Using Ana o 3 as a standalone test for cashew allergy diagnosis or a 2‐step algorithm incorporating cashew sIgE and Ana o 3 sIgE is accurate and results in a large reduction in both OFCs and health system costs compared with cashew SPT alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural products used as plasticizer can inhibit its migration in rubber and improve the dispersion of inorganic power. Herein, styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) was plasticized by poly‐cardanol (PCA) originated from the Friedel–Crafts alkylation without solvent of cardanol which was extracted from abandoned cashew nut shell. Results show that the Mooney viscosity of SBR/PCA compounds decreases from 45.8 to 34.7 and Tg from −52°C to −56.3°C when PCA is added from 0 to 30 phr. Moreover, the elongation at break of SBR contained 30 phr PCA increases by 515% compared with SBR. PCA also shows amphiphilic, which is verified by the improved dispersion of SiO2 in SBR/PCA compounds. The swelling ratio of SBR/PCA/SiO2 vulcanized rubber decreases and the crosslinking density increases. Meanwhile, the elongation at break of SBR70‐40 vulcanized rubber is 17.3%, which is higher than that of SBR100‐40 vulcanized rubber. PCA, acted as plasticizer and compatibilizer, provides a simple and green way for the application of natural products in the rubber industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this review, the focus of discussion is the polysaccharide fraction of cashew gum (CG), an exudate of Anacardium occidentale L., a plant typical of hot and humid tropical climates commonly found in northeastern Brazil and from which cashew nuts are extensively commercialized. CG purification, biological activity, and physical–chemical properties are explored in this work, in addition to applications of this biopolymer as a component of biomaterials used to either support, enhance, or replace damaged tissues or improve biological function. Evidence of its successful use to produce a range of biomaterials, from particles to gels and films, and to improve properties of already existing formulations are provided, supporting its versatility in this field of application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2‐Pentadecyl‐[1,1"‐biphenyl]‐4,4"‐diol (PBD) is synthesized starting from cashew nut shell liquid—a by‐product of cashew processing industry. A new series of partially biobased aromatic (co)polycarbonates possessing biphenylene units and pendant pentadecyl chains is synthesized by solution polycondensation of PBD or varying compositions of PBD and bisphenol‐A with triphosgene in dry dichloromethane. Inherent viscosities and number average molecular weights of (co)polycarbonates are in the range 0.51–1.24 dL g−1 and 18 × 103– 43.4 × 103 g mol−1, respectively indicating the formation of reasonably high molecular weight polymers. Flexible, transparent, and free‐standing films of (co)polycarbonates can be cast from chloroform solution. (Co)polycarbonates are characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), 1H NMR, 13C NMR spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry, and thermogravimetric analysis. T10 and Tg values of (co)polycarbonates are in the range 417–433 and 8–147 °C, respectively. It is demonstrated that the Tg values can be tuned by incorporation of appropriate mol% of PBD as a comonomer in Bisphenol‐A‐based copolycarbonates. The lowering of the Tg values of (co)polycarbonates can be attributed primarily to the packing disruptive effect of flexible pentadecyl chains. Furthermore, the effect of incorporation of PBD as a comonomer on water contact angle values of (co)polycarbonates is evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomass derived activated carbon has attracted well‐deserved attention in the realm of energy storage applications due to its high porosity and excellent electrochemical properties. In this study, cashew nutshell derived activated carbon (CNSAC) exhibits a highly interconnected and honeycomb like microporous structure with a large specific surface area of 835 m2 g−1 and a high pore volume of 0.4 m3 g−1. These superior structural features of CNSAC facilitate rapid diffusion of electrolyte and improve its electrochemical efficiency, which is desirable for electrode material. Fabrication of symmetrical supercapacitors (SSC) employing water in salt (WIS) electrolyte validates the outstanding electrochemical performance of CNSAC electrode material. WIS based SSC had a remarkable specific capacitance of 110 Fg−1 at a current density of 1 Ag−1 over a wider electrochemical stability window of 0–2 V, suggesting that WIS electrolytes can address the limitations of conventional aqueous electrolytes and have significant potential for diverse supercapacitor applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Remote communities alleviate economic hardship by renting their crops to others, and these transactions are often informal and exploitative. Because farmland is an important income source for rural areas, understanding the participation in distress rentals of cashew nut farms is critical for sustainable development. Previous studies have highlighted relationships between socioeconomic factors and participation in land rentals but have failed to examine distress rentals under ethnic contexts. In this study, we interviewed 121 villagers to examine socioeconomic determinants of the participation in distress rentals of farmers with regard to their indigenous culture in two communes in Binh Phuoc province. We found that ethnic identity, land‐ownership, informal training in agriculture, family size, and proximity to markets are statistically significant in explaining the likelihood to participate in distress rentals. Based on these findings, we make several recommendations for how local governments can create better policies to ensure social justice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Oral immunotherapy (OIT) is a treatment option for patients with milk, egg, and peanut allergy, but data on the efficacy and safety of cashew OIT are limited. Methods: A cohort of 50 cashew‐allergic patients aged ≥4 years, who were consecutively enrolled into cashew OIT (target dose 4000 mg protein) between 4/2016 and 12/2019. Fifteen cashew‐allergic patients who continued cashew elimination served as observational controls. Co‐allergy to pistachio and walnut was determined. Full desensitization rate and associated immunological changes in both groups were compared. Patients fully desensitized to cashew were instructed to consume a dose of 1200 mg cashew protein for 6 months and were then challenged to a full dose. Patients with co‐allergy to pistachio or walnut were challenged to the respective nut. Results: Forty‐four of 50 OIT‐treated patients (88%) compared to 0% in controls tolerated a dose of 4000 mg cashew protein at the end of the study (odds ratio 8.3, 95% CI 3.9–17.7, p < 0.001). An additional three patients were desensitized to 1200 mg cashew protein, and three patients stopped treatment. Three patients (6%) were treated with injectable epinephrine for home reactions. Desensitized patients had decreased SPT, sIgE, basophil reactivity, and increased sIgG4, following treatment. Following cashew desensitization, all pistachio (n = 35) and four of eight walnut co‐allergic patients were cross‐desensitized to the respective nut. All (n = 44) patients consuming a low cashew dose for ≥6 months following desensitization passed a full‐dose cashew OFC. Conclusions: Cashew OIT desensitizes most cashew‐allergic patients and cross‐desensitizes to pistachio. Safety is similar to OIT for other foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypercrosslinked polymers (HCPs) have aroused considerable attention due to their high chemical stability and potential applications in adsorption. A series of HCPs were prepared via one‐step solvent knitting method using the cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) as bio‐based building block. Characterization of the prepared samples was performed by N2 adsorption, Fourier transform infrared, Raman spectra, solid‐state 13C NMR spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy images. Depending on the N2 adsorption, the as‐prepared CNSL‐HCP4 exhibits the highest specific surface area of 93 m2·g−1 and displays a uniform pore‐size distribution. TGA results show that the decomposition temperature of the polymers exceeds 350°C. More significantly, the dynamic adsorption of high concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) was investigated with CNSL‐HCP4 under dry and humid conditions. The results show that the maximum adsorption capacity of o‐xylene under dry conditions is 217 mg·g−1 and its corresponding adsorption amount (208 mg·g−1) decreases slightly under 30% relative humidity condition, indicating that CNSL‐HCP4 had a hydrophobic surface. A little decrease in adsorption capacity of o‐xylene on CNSL‐HCP4 after five recycles confirms the reusability of the CNSL‐HCPs. Therefore, CNSL‐HCP4 is considered to be a promising candidate for potential adsorbent in recycling the VOCs from the exhaust. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guinea-Bissau's economy is heavily reliant on the export of raw cashew nuts, which make up 90% of export value and provide income for 80% of the population. However, the country faces structural challenges, political instability, weak financial management systems, and the impacts of climate change. The public sector pension schemes also face challenges, with high fiscal consequences for the country. The lack of infrastructure, human capital, and public services hinders private sector-led growth and economic diversification. Poverty is widespread, particularly in rural areas. The government needs to address governance issues in the public pension schemes and take measures to improve them. Additionally, there have been protests against the high cost of living in the country. [Extracted from the article]

Cashew apples, a by‐product accrued during the manufacture of cashew nuts, have abundant nutritional values but are not widely utilized due to the presence of substances that cause acrid taste. In this study, we attempted the production of a dried jelly cashew apple product and optimized three main processing stages including blanching, osmotic, and drying. The results showed suitable conditions at 6 mm thickness in the blanching process. The osmotic process recorded a temperature of 35°C, within 1.5 h, the ratio of sugar syrup/ingredient 2:1 with sugar syrup 60 Bx, and the addition of 0.6% citric acid on the total weight of ingredients and 0.02% CaCl2. The drying process at 55°C within 267 min had the highest ascorbic acid content (TAA), total phenolic content (TPC), and content of tannin compounds (TTC) retention. These parameters refer to a product that has good organoleptic acceptability in terms of taste, acrid content, and a high ability to retain major nutrients. Furthermore, the product recovery efficiency is 21.45%. Jelly drying cashew apples (JDC) are formed to help take advantage of by‐products, contributing to adding value for the cashew industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Measurement of cashew‐specific IgE (sIgE) is often used to confirm sensitization but does not reliably diagnose clinical allergy. Ana o 3 is the dominant cashew allergen detected in 75–100% of patients with cashew allergy but not currently used in clinical practice. Objectives: To determine if component‐resolved diagnostics using specific IgE to the 2 S albumin from cashew, Ana o 3, improves the accuracy of diagnosing cashew allergy, thereby circumventing the need for an oral food challenge (OFC) in some patients. Methods: A population‐based sample of 5276 children was recruited at age 1 year and followed up at age 6 years. Children with positive cashew skin prick test at age 6 underwent an OFC to clarify allergy status. Forty‐seven children (mean age 5.02 ± 0.2) (33 cashew‐allergic and 14 cashew‐tolerant) had cashew sIgE and Ana o 3 sIgE quantified by ImmunoCAP System FEIA. Results: A cutoff of >0.32 kUA/L for Ana o 3 sIgE provided 95% specificity and 90% sensitivity and correctly identified 90% of clinical cashew allergy. At the same specificity, the sensitivity for cashew sIgE (>8.5 kUA/L) was only 26%. Sequential measurement of cashew sIgE followed by Ana o 3 sIgE diagnosed 90% of children with cashew allergy without the need for an OFC. Conclusion: Ana o 3 sIgE testing provides higher diagnostic accuracy than cashew sIgE. Sequential measurement of cashew sIgE followed by Ana o 3 removed the need for a food challenge from 66% down to 12.8% (5‐fold) of children compared with cashew sIgE testing alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The economics involved in processing cashew nuts (Anacardium occidentale) might alter micronutrient profiles and concentrations. We analyzed and evaluated carotenoids, tocopherols, tocotrienols, minerals, fatty acids, and amino acids in (1) cashew kernels with testa recovered from nuts dried with and without the apple, and (2) testa‐free industrial grade baby butts, splits, and white whole kernels using HPLC, ICP‐OES, and GC‐MS techniques. The results indicated that drying cashews with the respective apple slightly decreased the concentration of some carotenoids and total fatty and amino acids, but increased the concentration of iron, magnesium, and total tocotrienols compared with the conventionally (sun‐) dried kernels. We also found high concentrations of carotenoids in the testa‐containing kernels. Among the industrially processed kernel, baby butt grade was associated with lower content of β‐carotene, total tocopherols, and tocotrienols, but with significantly higher concentrations in minerals, fatty acids, and amino acids than in white wholes and split grades. Conventional sun drying of cashew nuts revealed results similar to drying with apples regarding micronutrient concentrations. The high micronutrient content of industrial grade BB is reflected in widespread human consumption and better market value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vitrimers have gained a great deal of attention from researchers, yet research on its application is still lacking. This study, a novel bio‐based vitrimer was developed from epoxy (EP) and bio‐based curing agents, that is, cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) and citric acid (CA), and then reinforced by carbon fiber. The vitrimers with different ratios of acid to epoxy (R ratio) at 0.30–0.40 contained ester and ether linkages. All EP/CA/CNSL vitrimers showed the stress relaxation over 70–100°C due to transesterification. The vitrimers were applied as polymer matrices for the carbon fiber composites and then used as repair patches. By using the carbon fiber‐reinforced vitrimer with the R ratio of 0.30, patch repair on a damaged alloy sheet revealed that approximately 98% of the tensile strength of the damaged alloy sheet was recovered. The vitrimer can be dissolved from carbon fiber composite to recover carbon fiber. The recovered carbon fiber retained good tensile strength compared to the pristine composite. Based on this study, the EP/CA/CNSL vitrimers showed the comparable thermomechanical properties with the epoxy vitrimer cured by the petroleum‐based curing agent. The vitrimer composite patch could therefore be an alternative new repair method to extend the service life of damaged structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The upcycling of waste biomass into valuable materials by resource‐efficient chemical transformations is a prime objective for sustainable chemistry. This approach is demonstrated in a straightforward light‐driven synthesis of polyols and polyurethane foams from the multi‐ton waste products of cashew nut processing. The photo‐oxygenation of cardanol from nutshell oil results in the formation of synthetically versatile hydroperoxides. The choice of the workup method (i. e. reduction, hydrogenation, epoxidation) enables access to a diverse range of alcohols with tunable alkene and OH functions. Condensation with isocyanates to give rigid polyurethane foams provides a resource‐efficient waste‐to‐value chain that benefits from the availability of cardanol and installation of OH groups from aerial O2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Starch‐based films incorporated with cellulose nanofibres (CNFs) were tested as packaging to improve the stability of cashew nut kernels (CNKs). CNKs were conditioned in four packings: commercial polyethylene film (PEF), starch film (CF), nanocomposite CHF (starch + CNFs from chemical hydrolysis) and nanocomposite EHF (starch + CNFs from enzymatic hydrolysis). Effect of the packaging methods on peroxides value (POV), acidity value (AV), weight gain (WG), water activity (Aw), hardness and colour properties of the CNKs was investigated. CNKs packed with CHF and EHF showed lower POV (0.91 and 0.92 meqperoxide/kgsample, respectively) after 21 days of storage than other packed (1.07–1.13 meqperoxide/kgsample) and unpacked samples (1.32 meqperoxide/kgsample). CNKs packaged with nanocomposites presented similar WG to samples packaged with PEF and lower values than unpackaged CNKs. Biodegradable nanocomposites films showed potential to be used as packaging for food product, being an effective material for extending oilseeds shelf life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some children with macadamia nut allergy might also be sensitized for both walnut and hazelnut due to cross-reactivity and should therefore be tested carefully for walnut and hazelnut allergies if they are allergic to macadamia nut. Previous case reports of macadamia nut allergy demonstrated the possibility of false-negative IgE antibody test results and cross-reactivity of macadamia nut with hazelnut.1-5 However, the clinical features of childhood macadamia nut allergy and the cross-reactivity of macadamia nut with foods other than hazelnut remain understudied. GLO:FS1/01jul21:pai13469-fig-0001.jpg PHOTO (COLOR): 1 Dose-dependent inhibition of IgE binding to macadamia nut extract on ELISA using macadamia nut, hazelnut, and walnut extract. [Extracted from the article]

Cashew Nut Shell (CNS), an abundant waste from the cashew nut production, could become a promising material for gasification. Nevertheless, engineering data regarding this technology is still small and fragmented. In this study, the evolution of the char textural properties during gasification, as well as the effect of operating conditions on char gasification kinetics were extensively investigated and quantified. The textural properties of cashew nut shell char changed significantly following different pathways between CO2 and H2O gasification. Micropores and mesopores were well developed along with the conversion in the case of H2O gasification instead of only micropores in the case of CO2 gasification. Regarding char gasification kinetics, an increase of the temperature from 800 to 1000°C enhanced five times the conversion rate under an H2O atmosphere and 15 times under a CO2 atmosphere. The conversion rate increased two times when the concentration of reacting gases changed from 20 to 60 vol % for both atmospheres. Similarities in terms of gasification kinetics between CNS chars and wood chip chars were found in this range of operating conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The median level of specific IgE to r Ana o 3 was higher in patients with confirmed pistachio allergy compared to sensitized-only patients (0.92 kU/L vs 0, I P i = .02), while the level of specific IgE to pistachio was not significantly different (Table 1). Children were suspected of pistachio allergy either because of the existence of allergies to other nuts or legumes, or because of the existence of symptoms suggestive of pistachio allergy. Cashew and pistachio both belong to the I Anarcardiacae i family. Sensitization to cashew nut 2S albumin, Ana o3, is highly predictive of cashew and pistachio allergy in Greek children. [Extracted from the article]

Background: The prevalence of tree nut allergy has increased worldwide, and cashew has become one of the most common food allergens. More critically, cashew allergy is frequently associated with severe anaphylaxis. Despite the high medical need, no approved treatment is available and strict avoidance and preparedness for prompt treatment of allergic reactions are considered dual standard of care. In the meantime, Phase III study results suggest investigational epicutaneous immunotherapy (EPIT) may be a relevant and safe treatment for peanut allergy and may improve the quality of life for many peanut allergic children. Objective: We aimed to evaluate the capacity of EPIT to provide protection against cashew‐induced anaphylaxis in a relevant mouse model. Methods: The efficacy of EPIT was evaluated by applying patches containing cashew allergens to cashew‐sensitized mice. As negative control, sham mice received patches containing excipient. Following treatment, mice were challenged orally to cashew and anaphylactic symptoms, as well as plasmatic levels of mast‐cell proteases (mMCP)‐1/7, were quantified. Results: Of 16 weeks of EPIT significantly protects against anaphylaxis by promoting a faster recovery of challenged mice. This protection was characterized by a significant reduction of temperature drop and clinical symptoms, 60 minutes after challenge. This was associated with a decrease in mast‐cell reactivity as attested by the reduction of mMCP‐1/7 in plasma, suggesting that EPIT specifically decrease IgE‐mediated anaphylaxis. Conclusion: We demonstrate that EPIT markedly reduced IgE‐mediated allergic reactions in a mouse model of cashew allergy, which suggests that EPIT may be a relevant approach to treating cashew allergy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waste‐derived fish oil (FO) can be epoxidized and reacted with CO2 to produce a cyclic carbonate containing material. Upon reaction with a bioderived amine, this leads to the formation of nonisocyanate polyurethane materials. The FO used is extracted from the by‐products produced at fish processing plants, including heads, bones, skin, and viscera. Three different methods are used for the epoxidation of the FO: (i) oxidation by 3‐chloroperoxybenzoic acid, (ii) oxidation by hydrogen peroxide and acetic acid, catalyzed by sulfuric acid, and (iii) oxidation by hydrogen peroxide catalyzed by formic acid. Synthesized FO epoxides are reacted with CO2 to yield FO cyclic carbonates with high conversions. The products are characterized by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and viscometry. Using a biomass‐derived amine, nonisocyanate polyurethane materials are synthesized. This process can lead to new opportunities in waste management, producing valuable materials from a resource that is otherwise underutilized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The methane-mitigating potency of cashew nutshell liquid (CNSL) was evaluated by investigating gas production from batch cultures using feces from Thai native ruminants that had been incubated for different periods. Feces was obtained from four Thai native cattle and four swamp buffaloes reared under practical feeding conditions at the Kasetsart University farm, Thailand. Fecal slurry from the same farm was also included in the analysis. CNSL addition successfully suppressed the methane production potential of feces from both ruminants by shifting short chain fatty acid profiles towards propionate production. Methane mitigation continued for almost 150 days, although the degree of mitigation was more apparent from Day 0 to Day 30. Bacterial and archaeal community shifts with CNSL addition were observed in feces from both ruminants; specifically, Bacteroides increased, whereas Lachnospiraceae and Ruminococcaceae decreased in feces to which CNSL was added. Fecal slurry did not show marked changes in gas production with CNSL addition. The findings showed that the addition of CNSL to the feces of ruminants native to the Southeast Asian region can suppress methane emission. Because CNSL can be easily obtained as a byproduct of the local cashew industry in this region, its on-site application might be ideal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growth and morphology of rumen methanogenic archaea (15 strains of 10 species in 5 genera, including 7 strains newly isolated in the present study) and bacteria (14 species in 12 genera) were investigated using unsupplemented in vitro pure cultures and cultures supplemented with cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) and its phenolic compound components, anti-methanogenic agents for ruminant animals. Growth of most of the methanogens tested was inhibited by CNSL and alkylphenols at different concentrations ranging from 1.56 to 12.5 µg/ml. Of the alkylphenols tested, anacardic acid exhibited the most potent growth inhibition. Three gram-negative bacterial species involved in propionate production were resistant to CNSL and alkylphenols (>50 µg/ml). All the methanogens and bacteria that were sensitive to CNSL and alkylphenols exhibited altered morphology; disruption of the cell surface was notable, possibly due to surfactant activity of the tested materials. Cells division was inhibited in some organisms, with cell elongation and unclear septum formation observed. These results indicate that CNSL and alkylphenols, particularly anacardic acid, inhibit both rumen bacteria and methanogens in a selective manner, which could help mitigate rumen methane generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of feeding cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) on fecal fermentation products and microbiota was investigated in Thai native cattle and swamp buffaloes. Four of each animal were fed rice straw and concentrate diet with control pellets without CNSL for 4 weeks, followed by the same diet with pellets containing CNSL for another 4 weeks, so that CNSL was administered at a level of 4 g/100 kg body weight. Feces were collected the last 2 days in each feeding period. CNSL alkyl phenols were recovered from feces (16%-28%) in a similar proportion to those in the diet, indicating that most functional anacardic acid was not selectively removed throughout the digestive tract. In vitro production of gas from feces, particularly methane, decreased with CNSL feeding. The proportion of acetate in feces decreased with CNSL feeding, whereas that of propionate increased, without affecting total short-chain fatty acid concentration. CNSL feeding changed fecal microbial community, particularly in swamp buffaloes, which exhibited decreases in the frequencies of Treponema, unclassified Ruminococcaceae, and Methanomassiliicoccaceae. These results suggest that CNSL feeding alters not only rumen fermentation but also hindgut fermentation via modulation of the microbial community, thereby potentially attenuating methane emission from the feces of ruminant animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) feeding on bacterial and archaeal community of the bovine rumen was investigated by analyzing clone libraries targeting 16S rRNA genes, methyl-coenzyme reductase A-encoding genes (mcrA), and their respective transcripts. Rumen samples were collected from three non-lactating cows fed on a hay and concentrate diet with or without CNSL supplementation. DNA and complementary DNA (cDNA) libraries were generated for investigating rumen microbial communities. MiSeq analysis also was performed to understand more comprehensively the changes in the microbial community structures. Following CNSL supplementation, the number of operational taxonomical unit (OTU) and diversity indices of bacterial and archaeal community were decreased. Bacterial OTUs belonging to Proteobacteria, including Succinivibrio, occurred at a higher frequency with CNSL feeding, especially in cDNA libraries. The methanogenic archaeal community became dominated by Methanomicrobium. A bacterial community shift also was observed in the MiSeq data, indicating that CNSL increased the proportion of Succinivibrio and other genera known to be involved in propionate production. Methanogenic archaeal community shifts to increase Methanoplanus and to decrease Methanobrevibacter also were observed. Together, these results imply the occurrence of significant changes in rumen communities, not only for bacteria but also for methanogens, following CNSL feeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The effects of cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) feeding on the methane (CH4) emission and the ruminal microbiome of Lai Sind beef cattle were investigated. Changes in the methane production and rumen microbiome by CNSL feeding were monitored by a respiration chamber and 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing respectively. The results demonstrated that CNSL feeding mitigated 20.2%–23.4% of the CH4 emission in vivo without apparent adverse effects on feed intake and feed digestibility. The rumen fluid analysis revealed a significant increase in the proportion of propionate in the total short‐chain fatty acids. The relative abundance of methanogen (order Methanobacteriales) decreased significantly, indicating the direct inhibitory effect of CNSL on methanogens. The predicted function of the rumen microbiome indicated that carbohydrate and lipid metabolisms including propionate production were upregulated by CNSL feeding, whereas CH4 metabolism was downregulated. A network analysis revealed that methanogen changed its partner bacteria after CNSL feeding. The δ13C of CH4 ranged from −74.2‰ to −66.6‰ with significant fluctuation by CNSL feeding, in agreement with the shift of the rumen microbiome. Our findings demonstrate that CNSL feeding can mitigate the CH4 emission from local cattle production systems in South‐East Asia by modifying the rumen microbiome and its function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of novel hydroxylated cardanol quaternary ammonium salts (HCQAS 3a–3g) with one or two hydroxyl groups, derived from renewable cardanol, a plant‐based and low‐cost material natural cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL), have been rationally designed and investigated as additive in detergent. CMC, γCMC, C20, pC20, and CMC/C20 were employed to exhibit the surface properties of HCQAS, reflecting that the surfactivity were superior to general cationic surfactants. In addition, HCQAS revealed excellent water solubility and wettability by krafft point and contact angle tests. Moreover, emulsifiability and foamability conversions were monitored versus time and volume of foam, respectively. Also, TEM micrographs were taken to provide the aggregation morphologies of HCQAS 3a aqueous solution at different concentration. Furthermore, HCQAS 3a and BGF‐10 binary composite system as well as HCQAS 3a, BGF‐10, and SDBS ternary composite system were investigated by CMC, γCMC, emulsifiability, and foamability to determine the optimum molar ratio (HCQAS 3a: BGF‐10: SDBS = 0.24:0.36:0.4), and then, analysis of morphology by TEM showed that the incorporation of HCQAS 3a, BGF‐10, and SDBS in aqueous solution accelerated the formation of abundant vesicles with large volume and surface area. Finally, a green concentrated detergent was designed and prepared with the filtered ratio, where the presence of vesicles greatly enhanced detergency to promisingly replace the familiar use of petroleum‐based TX‐10 in detergent. This study on the structure and performance of HCQAS may shed some light on the development of novel environmentally friendly surfactant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]