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To facilitate future pasteurization experiments utilizing microwave energy, the dielectric properties of five dried fruits — almond (Prunus dulcis), cashew nut (Anacardium occidentale), pistachio (Pistacia vera), peanut (Arachis hypogea L.) and walnut (Juglans regia) were investigated at room temperature (28∘C). Samples were taken in powder form to investigate the effect of increased surface-to-volume ratio on their dielectric properties, as applicable in the case of nanomaterials. The measurements were conducted at four different frequencies (3.30, 7.50, 9.30and 14.70GHz) in the microwave spectrum by using the two-point method and a MATLAB program was used for solving the transcendental equation to obtain values of dielectric constant and loss factor. The findings revealed a decreasing trend in the values of dielectric constant of the five dried fruits as the frequency increased. However, no consistent trend was observed for the dielectric loss factor of the fruits with increasing frequency. Further, the penetration depth of electromagnetic waves in all the five dry fruit samples was observed to decrease as the frequency increased. On comparing results for dielectric parameters of dry fruits in powder form with those of whole fruit kernels, no definite trends are observed for ε′ and ε″, but the penetration depth is found to decrease when the sample is taken in powder form. [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]

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]

This study aimed to develop and validate a multi-mycotoxin analysis method applied to cashew nuts by employing a miniaturized QuEChERS method followed by determination by ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC–MS/MS). Satisfactory recoveries for the concentrations 1, 10 and 30 ng g−1, ranging from 66% (fumonisin B1) to 110% (ochratoxin A) and relative standard deviations lower than 9% (fumonisin B2) were obtained for the target compounds. Limits of quantification ranged from 0.004 ng g−1 (sterigmatocystin) to 0.59 ng g−1 (alternariol). The applicability of the analytical method was verified by analyzing 30 cashew nut samples from the city of Rio de Janeiro, RJ, southeastern Brazil. Aflatoxins M1, G2, G1, B2, B1, ochratoxin A and sterigmatocystin were detected, respectively, in 27%, 10%, 17%, 30%, 30%, 30% and 50% of the analyzed samples, at maximum concentrations of 0.56, 0.67, 1.43, 2.02, 4.93, 4.81, and 0.35 ng g−1. The maximum limit established by Brazilian legislation for aflatoxins was not exceeded by any of the analyzed samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, fully bio-based photocurable trifunctional benzoxazines derived from resveratrol were designed and characterized for multi-dimensional applications. The molecular structure was confirmed using ATR-FTIR and 1H-NMR spectral techniques. The curing temperature and thermal stability were thoroughly studied using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) respectively. Notably, in DSC analysis RE-dda exhibited the lowest curing temperature of 191 °C among the synthesised benzoxazines. All the synthesised polybenzoxazines exhibited good thermal stability and start degrading after 263°C. Under UV irradiation, intriguing photoisomerization phenomena was observed in the case of RE-ffa and RE-lee based benzoxazines. The photoluminescence behavior of the UV irradiated benzoxazines was studied using fluorescence spectroscopy and RE-oda displayed a Stokes shift value of 318. Further benzoxazines were reinforced with cashew nut shell cake ash (CNSA) with a view to attain a low value of dielectric constant and to enhance the thermal stability of the composites. An incorporation of 10 wt% CNSA contributes to a reduction in the value of dielectric constant to 1.66, accompanied with a minimal value of dielectric loss of 0.0017. Furthermore, the hydrophobic behavior of the polybenzoxazines, composites and poly(RE-ole) coated cotton fabric was evaluated using water contact angle measurement. Poly(RE-ole) exhibited an impressive water contact angle value of 146°. Moreover, poly(RE-ole) coated cotton fabric displayed enhanced value of water contact angle close to superhydrophobic value of 151°. Data obtained from different studies infer the developed benzoxazines can be considered for water repellent and microelectronics insulation applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an innovative mathematical model of solid fuel gasification, which is not described in the available literature. The calculation of the components of the heterogeneous phase (including both solid and gaseous phases) as well as the calculation of the homogeneous phase (only gaseous components) is based on the balance of the total amounts of carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, and nitrogen entering the reactor space. Additionally, this paper introduces a new method for calculating the composition of the gaseous phase, based on reducing the heterogeneous mixture (composed of solid and gaseous phases) to a homogeneous gaseous phase. This approach to calculating the gaseous phase composition in the solid fuel gasification process has not been found by the authors in the cited literature. This paper also presents a model for calculating the heterogeneous and gaseous phases using the number of moles that participate in the assumed chemical reactions of the solid fuel gasification process. This approach to calculating the composition of the heterogeneous and gaseous phases of the solid fuel gasification process is also not represented in the cited literature. For comparison with the literature data, municipal solid waste (MSW) and cashew nut shell (Cashew Shell Char (CNSC)) were used as fuels in the calculation of gasification composition. The results of the calculation of the gaseous phase composition using the model presented in the paper show good agreement with the data from the literature. The calculation of the composition of the heterogeneous mixture during the steam gasification of MSW (α = 0.4) shows the presence of a solid phase (carbon) up to approximately 735 °C. At that temperature, the synthetic gas contains only gaseous components: CO = 33.10%, H2 = 52.70%, CH4 = 2.54%, CO2 = 4.97, H2O = 5.93% and N2 = 0.76%. Increasing the temperature above 735 °C eliminates the solid phase from the equilibrium mixture. The literature data on solid fuel gasification generally do not consider the proportion of the solid phase (carbon) in the equilibrium mixture. To satisfy the material balance at the input and output of the gasification reactor, it is necessary to determine the proportion of the solid phase (carbon) in the equilibrium mixture. Since the proportion of the solid phase (carbon) in the heterogeneous equilibrium mixture can only be determined through measurement, the development and application of a mathematical model in engineering practice is of great importance, so this developed model can be considered a useful tool for simulating the influence of process parameters on gas characteristics. [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]

Globally, large numbers of people suffer from undernourishment and food insecurity, while a third of food produced is lost or wasted. The widely cultivated cashew nut produces large quantities of waste in early processing. It grows on an edible peduncle called the cashew apple which contains many essential nutrients. An estimated 36.9 million tons of cashew apples are produced annually, but only small amounts are used to make juice. The remainder is considered production waste. This review presents the potential of cashew apple pomace as a food ingredient and examines the effects of incorporation on chemical composition, physical properties and sensory evaluation. Inclusion in optimized amounts into food products is a strategy proven to produce palatable results with high acceptability. Transforming this manufacturing by-product into a functional food component will have economic benefits, improve resource-utilization, promote sustainability and potentially increase the nutritional value of foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Local folks have reported that roasting cashew nuts has fatal effects on domestic birds, especially chickens. This study compared the toxicological effect of acute (one-hour) inhalation of cashew nutshell fumes (CNSF) in Cockerel chickens and Wistar rats. Twenty-four mixed-sex Wistar rats were divided into four groups; control, rats exposed to 500ppm/hr., 1250ppm/hr. and 2500ppm/hr. of CNSF for one (1) hour. The chickens were also divided into three groups of 6 chickens each; control (unexposed chickens), chickens exposed to 500ppm/hr. and 1000ppm/hr. of CNSF for one (1) hour. Hematological analysis as well as histological examinations of the lungs and heart of the Chickens and Rats were carried out. After one hour of exposure, the toxicity signs noted include; scratching, twitching, irregular breathing, and tremors. All rats exposed to 2500ppm/hr of CNSF died with moderate pulmonary congestion. Analysis of hematological parameters in the surviving animals showed a significant (P<0.05) increase in hemoglobin (Hb%), packed cell volume (PCV%) and white blood cells (WBCx109L) counts in both chickens and Wistar rats exposed to CNSF compared with the unexposed control groups. No significant (P>0.05) differences were found between male and female rats for all the hematological parameters measured. The results also showed species-specific variations in all the hematological parameters. Histopathological evaluation reflects a mononuclear inflammatory infiltration of the striated heart muscles and the septa of alveoli in the lungs. These results further highlight the possible adverse health effects of exposure to cashew nut fumes in animals and humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: West Africa, particularly Guinea-Bissau, heavily relies on cashew nut (Anacardium occidentale L.) production, which significantly impacts the countries' economies. Cashew exhibits remarkable adaptability to impoverished and arid soils. Understanding producers' socio-economic characteristics is crucial due to their potential influence on crop productivity and household income. Methods: This study aims to characterize the socio-economic, productive, and phytosanitary aspects of cashew production in Guinea-Bissau, through 151 interviews with producers across all administrative regions of the country. Results: Our findings reveal that cashew producers are mainly males aged 40 to 60, they typically manage plantations under 5 ha, with the smaller plantation areas located in Gabú, Cacheu, and Bolama. The age of the older trees averaged 31 years, with the highest age found in Biombo. Tree density averaged 286 trees per hectare, with higher values in Cacheu, Bafatá, and Bolama. Cashew nut yield in 2020 averaged less than 0.5 tons per hectare, with farmer-set prices generally lower than government determined prices. Oio, Tombali, and Bolama were the regions most affected by pests, while Oio and Cacheu (North) were the most affected by diseases. Top pests included termites, branch girdler, weaver ants, African grasshopper, and stem borer; while top diseases comprised gummosis, anthracnose, and dieback. Discussion: Characterization of cashew production system is crucial at both national and regional levels to identify region-specific limitations and strengths, aiding in the formulation of tailored strategies for sustainable production. Moreover, cashew production plays a crucial role in household incomes in Guinea-Bissau, underscoring the necessity of developing integrated management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants intimately coexist with diverse taxonomically structured microbial communities that influence host health and productivity. The coexistence of plant microbes in the phyllosphere benefits biodiversity maintenance, ecosystem function, and community stability. However, differences in community composition and network structures of phyllosphere epiphytic and endophytic fungi are widely unknown. Using Illumina Miseq sequencing of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and 28S rRNA gene amplicons, we characterised the epiphytic and endophytic fungal communities associated with cashew phyllosphere (leaf, flower and fruit) from Kwale, Kilifi and Lamu counties in Kenya. The ITS and 28S rRNA gene sequences were clustered into 267 and 108 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) at 97% sequence similarity for both the epiphytes and endophytes. Phylum Ascomycota was abundant followed by Basidiomycota, while class Saccharomycetes was most dominant followed by Dothideomycetes. The major non-ascomycete fungi were associated only with class Tremellales. The fungal communities detected had notable ecological functions as saprotrophs and pathotrophs in class Saccharomyectes and Dothideomycetes. The community composition of epiphytic and endophytic fungi significantly differed between the phyllosphere organs which was statistically confirmed by the Analysis of Similarity test (ANOSIM Statistic R: 0.3273, for 28S rRNA gene and ANOSIM Statistic R: 0.3034 for ITS). The network analysis revealed that epiphytic and endophytic structures were more specialized, modular and had less connectance. Our results comprehensively describe the phyllosphere cashew-associated fungal community and serve as a foundation for understanding the host-specific microbial community structures among cashew trees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant-based milk has gained considerable attention; however, its high nutritional variation highlights the need for improved formulation designs to enhance its quality. This study aimed to nutritionally compare cow milk with plant-based milk produced from hazelnuts (H), Brazil nuts (BN), cashew nuts (CN), soybeans (S), and sunflower seeds (SS), and to perform physicochemical and technological characterization. The plant-based milk produced with isolated grains showed a nutritional composition inferior to that of cow milk in almost all evaluated parameters, protein content (up to 1.1 g 100 g−1), lipids (up to 2.7 g 100 g−1), color parameters, minerals, and especially calcium (up to 62.4 mg L−1), which were originally high in cow milk (up to 1030 mg L−1). However, the plant-based milk designed using a blend composition was able to promote nutritional enhancement in terms of minerals, especially iron (Fe) and magnesium (Mg), high-quality lipids (up to 3.6 g 100 g−1), and carbohydrates (3.4 g 100 g−1 using CN, BN, and S). The protein content was 1.3% compared to 5.7 in cow milk, and the caloric value of plant-based milk remained 32.8 at 52.1 kcal, similar to cow milk. Satisfactory aspects were observed regarding the shelf life, especially related to microbiological stability during the 11 d of storage at 4 °C. For the designed plant-based milk to be equivalent to cow milk, further exploration for optimizing the blends used to achieve better combinations is required. Furthermore, analyzing possible fortification and preservation methods to increase shelf life and meet the nutritional and sensory needs of the public would be interesting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of cashew nuts has been increasing globally, leading to a greater volume of waste materials that require proper management. Nevertheless, cashew nutshells (CNS), currently considered waste by most processors, offer a noteworthy opportunity for alternative applications owing to their distinct physical, chemical, and thermal properties. This article reviews alternative applications for CNS that can leverage these properties, while evaluating research gaps. The potential uses are classified into three categories: material development, energy production, and substance absorption. In the materials segment, various examples are discussed where CNS serves as raw material to synthesize biopolymers, cementitious materials, and a broad range of composites. The energy production section discusses various processes that utilize CNS, including pyrolysis, gasification, and briquette production. The absorption section presents CNS and activated carbon derived from CNS as effective absorbents for liquid-phase and gas-phase applications. While this review highlights numerous research-level possibilities for CNS utilization, only a few of these options have been implemented within the industry. Consequently, further research is essential, particularly in CNS characterization, economic and environmental assessment, and real-life implementation, to broaden and enhance the integration of this biomass into applications that can contribute to the value of both its production and processing chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The consumption of almonds, seeds, and nuts is common in gastronomy. The cashew nut is a source of lipids and protein, mainly used in culinary recipes or consumed salted, toasted, or fryer. Oil is an alternative for cashew kernel culinary use. This work evaluated two extraction forms: heat-pressed cashew kernel oil (HPCO) and cold-pressed cashew kernel oil (CPCO). In the HPCO, the oil was extracted with a cashew nut pre-heating at 60°C immediately followed by pressing, and in the CPCO the oil was cold-pressed without any heat. The purpose was to evaluate the sensory characteristics and the gastronomic potential of this different product of cashew nut. Focus groups and Optimized Descriptive Profile (ODP) were used to do so. The results identified a product with gastronomic potential and reasons that influence product consumption: price, nutritional factors, and symbolic regionals aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cashew nut testa (CNT) is a cashew industry by-product with various bioactive compounds, especially polyphenols. This study focuses on the formulation, characterization, and evaluation of functional properties of CNT extract-incorporated milk pudding. Cardamom oil was added as a flavoring agent. A sample without CNT extract served as a control. E-nose, E-tongue, and GC–MS analyses were used to analyze the flavor compounds, and HPLC analysis was used to analyze the phenolic compounds. The major phenolic compounds in CNT were (+)-catechin, (−)-epicatechin, and catechin gallate. α-Terpinyl acetate and 1,8-cineole were identified as the major volatile compounds responsible for cardamom aroma. Pudding with 0.04% CNT extract was estimated as the optimum level wherein it did not alter the sensory properties and consumer's overall acceptability. Moisture, pH, and fat content of the samples had no significant difference after storage at 4 °C for 7 days. Sensory characteristics and microbial qualities of the pudding with CNT were comparable to that of the control and the sensory quality of the sample remained acceptable after storage. The incorporation of CNT improved the functional properties of pudding by improving its antioxidant activities (IC50 81.97 ± 5.2 mg/ml). Recovery of polyphenols from this agro-industrial by-product and its incorporation into milk pudding is a novel approach that can add value to this by-product and impart additional health benefits to the food product. Cashew nut testa (CNT) incorporated pudding showed improved antioxidant activity. Volatile compounds were characterized by GC–MS, E-nose, and E-tongue. Sensory quality of pudding remained acceptable after storage at 4 °C for 7 days. Incorporation of CNT extract into pudding is a value addition of cashew by-product [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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]

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

As part of a concerted research effort to design management strategies for an economic insect pest of cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.), viz., Analeptes trifasciata Fabricius (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae), also known as the stem girdler, it became necessary to understand the biotic and abiotic factors influencing its population fluctuation. The population dynamics of A. trifasciata and its relationship with crop phenology (flushing, senescence, flower initiation, fruit development and maturation stages) and weather factors (average temperature, relative humidity and rainfall) were investigated from 2017 to 2019 at the cashew orchard of Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN), Ibadan, Nigeria. Observations were recorded at monthly intervals for the duration. The period of incidence was from May to December. Peak abundance, which coincided with the wet season as well as senescence and flower initiation stages, were not significantly correlated. Adult abundance of A. trifasciata was conspicuously low during the fruit development and maturation stages, this stage coincided with the peak of the dry season. However, there was no significant correlation between the pest abundance and crop phenological stages. The male to female ratio was 1:0.81 (÷2 =1.313, df =1, p =0.252). The abundance of A. trifasciata significantly but negatively correlated (r = -0.73) with temperature. Relative humidity (r = 0.30) and rainfall (r = 0.24) showed non-significant association with stem-girdler population. Our findings indicated that temperature is the major predictor of A. trifasciata population fluctuation irrespective of the phenological stage. These findings can be useful for developing a forecasting model for its early detection and appropriate management. [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]

The cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale L.) is a plant native to Brazil and has great commercial value. Among the products marketed from cashew trees, the cashew nut is the most valued, especially for export. However, the presence of allergenic proteins poses a potential threat to those allergic to cashew nuts, but molecular tools including proteomic analysis may be used to allow identification of cashew genotypes with altered allergen content. Here we aimed to identify differentially expressed proteins in common cashew seeds and dwarf FAGA 11 through proteomic analysis. Proteins differentially expressed were excised from two-dimensional gels and analyzed by mass spectrometry (ESI-Q-TOF), then identified using the MASCOT. A total of 18 proteins were analyzed, but only 5 (27%) were not identified. Among the proteins that are unique to common cashew, stand out: the precursor of globulin 11S and Ana 2 protein, both classified as allergenic proteins. The protein Ana o 2 is an 11S globulin and is considered the second most abundant allergen in cashew nuts. Thus, allergenic proteins found in common cashew nuts were observed as expected, but the allergen content of the dwarf FAGA 11 cashew nuts was altered and could represent a new source for biological diversity and allergen content for improved breeding and biotechnological applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the unique morphology and mechanical properties of multi-jet electrospun cashew gum (CG) when combined with high-molecular-weight polyethylene oxide (PEO) and glycerol. Cashew gum (CG) is a low-cost, non-toxic heteropolysaccharide derived from Anacardium occidentale trees. Initially, the electrospinnability of aqueous solutions of cashew gum alone or in combination with PEO was evaluated. It was found that cashew gum alone was not suitable for electrospinning; thus, adding a small quantity of PEO was needed to create the necessary molecular entanglements for fiber formation. By using a single emitter with a CG:PEO ratio of 85:15, straight and smooth fibers with some defects were obtained. However, additional purification of the cashew gum solution was needed to produce more stable and defect-free straight and smooth fibers. Additionally, the inclusion of glycerol as a plasticizer was required to overcome material fragility. Interestingly, when the optimized formulation was electrospun using multiple simultaneous emitters, thicker aligned fiber bundles were achieved. Furthermore, the resulting oriented fiber mats exhibited unexpectedly high elongation at break under ambient conditions. These findings underscore the potential of this bio-polysaccharide-based formulation for non-direct water contact applications that demand elastic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Covid-19 pandemic exacerbated the vulnerabilities of the Potiguara Amarelão Community, which relied on tourism and the sale of cashew nuts. In response, the community reinvented itself through the use of digital social networks, specifically Instagram (@aca.amarelao), to expand the marketing of their cashews and to advocate for their interests. This study aimed to investigate how the Amarelão Potiguara Community is using cyberactivism as a tool to respond to the challenges presented by the Covid-19 pandemic, through a qualitative as well as quantitative descriptive analysis of posts on Instagram. The @ac.amarelao profile revealed a series of images denouncing environmental issues, describing community survival, and requesting financial aid. The sale of cashew nuts, once a primary source of income, became non-existent due to the impact of the pandemic on local tourism. Notable dissatisfaction was observed among community members regarding current policies, evidencing an intensive search for greater recognition and visibility. The adoption of Instagram emerged as a strategy to achieve these goals. However, indiscriminate use of this platform proved insufficient, given the absence of adequate guidance in disseminating information. It is concluded that, faced with the invisibility of their rights and institutional inertia, the indigenous community turns to cyberspace to demand government action, mobilizing society to reconfigure the socio-political scenario and instigate favorable changes. [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]

Aims: A new approach to a healthy diet is the assessment of dietary Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC). The aim of this study was to assess the dietary TAC among Moroccan Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) patients and identify the main food sources contributing to the total antioxidant capacity intake. Methods: A total of 254 patients with T2DM was included in the study. The usual dietary intakes were assessed by means of a validated food frequency questionnaire. The dietary TAC was estimated using published databases of the antioxidant content of foods measured by the FRAP (ferric ion reducing antioxidant potential) method. Results: The mean (SD) dietary TAC of the studied type 2 diabetes patients was 10.86 (3.42) mmol/day. Correlation analyses showed a positive association between dietary TAC and the consumption of healthy food groups, such as fruits and vegetables. Tea and coffee beverages (38.6%), vegetables (21.9%), cereals and pulses (18.8%), fruits and fruit juices (12.4%) were major food sources of dietary antioxidant intake. The relatively short list of twenty food items that contributed most to dietary TAC presented an important explanation of roughly 94%. These included tea, coffee, broad beans, artichoke, pepper, beetroot, sweet potatoes, pomegranate, mandarin, figs, strawberry, orange juice, olives, cashew nuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, dchicha and white beans. Conclusions: This study supplies baseline dietary TAC data for Moroccan T2DM patients that may help to elucidate which aspects of the eating habits and behaviours require improvement and provide the opportunity to develop dietary guidelines as part of the nutritional diabetes management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity is one of the abiotic stresses that affect crop productivity and plant development the most. We aimed to analyze the physiological and biochemical responses of dwarf cashew (A. occidentale L.) genotypes subjected to salt stress. The experiment was carried out in a greenhouse with a completely randomized design in a 5 × 2 factorial scheme, with five salinity levels (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 mM NaCl) and 2 dwarf cashew genotypes (Embrapa51 and CCP76). There was no significant effect of salinity on plant height, leaf number, and stem diameter; however, the dry biomass was significantly reduced. Chlorophylls, starch, and total free amino acids decreased with salt stress, mainly with 75 and 100 mM NaCl. The CCP76 genotype salt-stressed increased carotenoids, anthocyanins, total soluble carbohydrates, reducing sugars, sodium, and potassium ions compared to Embrapa51. Free proline was increased in response to salt stress in dwarf cashew genotypes. Interestingly, sucrose declined in Embrapa51 and increased in CCP76 in response to salinity. When submitted to 75 and 100 mM NaCl, i.e., under severe stress, CCP76 presented more sucrose than Embrapa51. Our results indicated that sucrose accumulation plays an important role in the acclimation of CCP76 to salinity. This disaccharide induces metabolic rearrangements, mostly in the levels of soluble carbohydrates and amino acids, which contribute to rebalancing the osmotic potential and help to maintain favorable plant metabolism under salt stress. Overall, the dwarf cashew CCP76 was more tolerant to salinity than Embrapa51. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Theoretical background: Consumers often rely on the perceived country-of-origin image as an indication of food safety and quality. The consumption of cashew nuts in Poland and other European countries has increased strongly in recent years due to socio-economic factors influencing consumers’ dietary behaviour. This is a chance for Tanzania – a key global producer and exporter of cashew nut kernels – to increase its revenues from the agri-food sector. Purpose of the article: The aim of this study is to explore cashew nuts consumption in Poland and consumer perceptions regarding nuts of African origin. Research methods: Empirical research was conducted using a web-based survey questionnaire among consumers originated from Europe, Africa and other continents, and residing in Poland (n = 244). The ordered Probit model was used to examine the impact of socioeconomic/demographic characteristics on the perception of quality/safety of nuts produced in Africa. Main findings: Most respondents recognize the health benefits of nuts. The vast majority of consumers surveyed perceive the quality and safety of nuts of African origin as average or above average. These products are rated more highly in terms of quality by representatives of Generation Z compared to Millennials which represents a potential for development of the market. High prices prevent every other consumer surveyed from buying cashew nuts. The development of cashew nut processing in Africa could contribute to the decrease in the prices in the importing countries and to further sustainable economic growth in producer countries, including Tanzania. If consumers in developed-countries appreciate the health benefits of cashew nuts and trust the quality and safety of nuts produced in Africa, efforts should be made to speed commodity-based industrialization in cashew-growing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of the fight against climate change and the development of renewable and new energies, the management of cashew nutshells is an issue. The physico-chemical and energetic properties of cashew nutshells show that they are good raw materials that can be used in thermochemical processes. Cashew nutshells were heated to temperatures of 300 ℃, 350 ℃ and 400 ℃ for 40 to 120 minutes to extract the liquid from the cashew nutshells. Biochar yields by mass were 46.5–52.8 wt%, 46.2–35.9 wt% and 37.8–30.3 wt% at temperatures of 300 ℃, 350 ℃ and 400 ℃, respectively. Biochar with high higher heating value and low residual oil content was obtained at a heating temperature of 300 ℃ for a time of 120 min. The biochar obtained under these optimum conditions has a residual oil content of less than 1 wt% and a higher heating value of 32.1 MJ·kg-1. The other two products, bio-oil and smoke, have higher heating values of 36 MJ·kg-1 and 10.2 MJ·Nm-3, respectively. Temperature and heating time improve the energy density and quality of biochar with low residual oil content. Heat treatment is therefore a promising technique for the production of an environmentally friendly and sustainable high energy solid biofuel from cashew nutshells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biofuels, especially ethanol, have gained immense popularity in the global energy sector, driven by a significant increase in demand. Ethanol production using agroindustrial residues reduces costs and can provide a destination for these residues that are generally wasted. In this context, the cashew apple emerges as an attractive and unconventional feedstock for bioethanol production. Although the technology to obtain ethanol from cashew apple juice is present in several studies, the key elements that determine its economic feasibility have never been defined. Then, this study aimed to present the first techno-economic assessment of ethanol production from cashew apple juice. Two industrial full-detailed scenarios were proposed based on the application of the obtained ethanol, where in scenario I, 2.1 × 106 liters of ethanol are produced for combustion purposes (94% w/w), while in scenario II, 2.8 × 106 liters of ethanol are produced for antiseptic purposes (70% w/w). The yields calculated in the proposed scenarios I and II were 66.5 L/ton and 88.9 L/ton, respectively, values comparable with those found in the literature using sugar cane and sweet sorghum as feedstocks. Then, the production of ethanol from cashew apple juice proved technically feasible. Economic sensibility analysis showed that both proposed scenarios are economically viable, as long as the cashew apple acquisition cost is at most 17.2 US$/ton for the scenario I and 28.1 US$/ton for scenario II. The raw material cost was the most crucial parameter to impact the economic analysis. In conclusion, the proposed biorefinery returned promising results, and it can consolidate a new raw material for ethanol production, provided that idle capacity is reduced and heat generation from cashew apple bagasse is optimized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to determine the genetic variability and the relationship between twenty traits for nut yield in fourteen cashew genotypes. The genotypes show considerable variation, and nut yield tree-1 had the highest genotypic coefficient of variation and phenotypic coefficient of variation. The number of nuts panicle-1, kernel weight and nut yield tree-1 all had substantial heritability and genetic advance in percent of mean. Plant height, canopy spread, leaf size, flowering intensity, length of inflorescence, percentage fruit set, number of nuts panicle-1, nut weight, shell thickness, kernel weight, apple weight and TSS of juice all showed a significant positive association with nut yield tree-1. Path analysis revealed that the main factors influencing nut yield tree-1 were canopy spread (east-west direction), apple weight, length of the inflorescence and the number of nuts panicle-1. The information on these statistical metrics would be useful in identifying genotypes with greater yield potential that can be used in the cashew improvement program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable soil nutrient management has been a current focus on different crop cultivation including cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.). Scarce availability of manure and high cost of inorganic fertilizers, triggered evaluation of cashew apple on soil fertility and performance of cashew. Cashew seeds were sown into soiled polythene bags incorporated with fresh, decayed, and fermented juicy of cashew apple at 0.25, 0.5, and 1.0 Kg/Kg Soil with 0.005 KgDAP and untreated as controls in screenhouse at TARI-Naliendele from 2019 to 2022. Findings revealed that fermented juicy and decayed apple at 0.25 Kg/Kg soil influenced 60–70% seed germination analogous with diammonium phosphate (DAP) and untreated (80–90%). About 1.0 Kg/Kg soil of decayed and fermented juicy exhibited higher plant height (70 cm), wider canopy spread (36.4 cm), and huge stem girth (2.6 cm) compared to others. Also, decayed apple had high number of branches and medium tap root with numerous lateral roots. High ground cover area (1011.5 cm2), leaf area (LA) (123.5 cm2), and canopy to girth ratio (14.5) were displayed with decayed and fermented juicy at 1.0 Kg/Kg Soil. On biomass yield, decayed and juicy had succulent fresh weight and high dry weight outperforming other treatments. Furthermore, decayed and fermented juicy exhibited high available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium at 1.0 Kg/Kg Soil after 196 d of application. Fresh apple at all rates showed high soil moisture content and temperature. Therefore, this new research suggests the application of decayed cashew apple at 1.0 Kg/Kg soil as organo-fertilizers for replenishing soil nutrient and improving growth and development of cashew. [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]

Most of the cashew nuts in the world are produced in the developing countries. Hence, there is a need to have a low-cost system to automatically grade cashew nuts, especially in small-scale farms, to improve mechanization and automation in agriculture, helping reduce the price of the products. To address this issue, in this work we first propose a low-cost grading system for cashew nuts by using the off-the-shelf equipment. The most important but complicated part of the system is its "eye", which is required to detect and classify the nuts into different grades. To this end, we propose to exploit advantages of both the YOLOv8 and Transformer models and combine them in one single model. More specifically, we develop a module called SC3T that can be employed to integrate into the backbone of the YOLOv8 architecture. In the SC3T module, a Transformer block is dexterously integrated into along with the C3TR module. More importantly, the classifier is not only efficient but also compact, which can be implemented in an embedded device of our developed cashew nut grading system. The proposed classifier, called the YOLOv8–Transformer model, can enable our developed grading system, through a low-cost camera, to correctly detect and accurately classify the cashew nuts into four quality grades. In our grading system, we also developed an actuation mechanism to efficiently sort the nuts according to the classification results, getting the products ready for packaging. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed classifier, we collected a dataset from our sorting system, and trained and tested the model. The obtained results demonstrate that our proposed approach outperforms all the baseline methods given the collected image data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cashew apple, by-product of cashew nut processing industry, is rich in vitamins, polyphenols, sugars, minerals, amino acids and dietary fibres. Despite being highly nutritious, it is an underutilized fruit due to its high perishability and astringent taste. In this study, a shelf-life extension of cashew apples using chemical pre-treatment has been investigated. The effect of chemical pre-treatment using a solution containing calcium chloride, sodium chloride, and potassium meta-bisulphite was investigated and its effect on physicochemical parameters such as pH, total soluble solids, physiological weight loss, colour, texture, total phenolic content, antioxidant, vitamin C, and enzyme inhibition (%) were studied. The chemical pre-treatment showed retention of firmness (84.19%), vitamin C (89.38%), total phenolic content (85.67%) and antioxidant capacity (94.04%) which was significantly higher than the untreated samples. Also, inhibition of polyphenol oxidase, peroxidase, amylase, cellulase, and pectinase was found to be more than 65% till the 10th day. Thus, the present study describes the potential of chemical pre-treatment to extend the shelf-life of cashew apples and its utilization for food product development can be explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The agri-food supply chain has been a popular research topic in recent years. The combination of a demand for products of high quality and safety standards and the increasing number of stakeholders in supply chain networks has required the agri-food business to transform from vertically integrated to vertically operated supply chain networks. Nevertheless, this traditional agri-food supply chain form has exposure to some drawbacks. Meanwhile, blockchain technology as a disruptive technology today has the potential to provide value-added contributions towards multiple-disciplinary applications. Blockchain technology gains success and proves its functionality in improving the current supply chain by ensuring traceability, transparency and efficiency across the network from farmer to consumer. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to review the existing literature on vertical coordination in the supply chain and its mechanism and to develop a framework that explores how blockchain technology can address the challenges in coordination mechanisms. Furthermore, taking the current Vietnamese vertical coordination cashew supply chain as a case study, this research is based on the proposed framework to suggest a solution combining blockchain and other relative technologies for the Vietnamese cashew business. This paper will close a research gap, as the blockchain-based supply chain for Vietnam cashew nuts has potential benefits for each supply chain actor in terms of effectiveness in operations, costs and time-saving, and human resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The QuEChERS analytical method in combination with GC and LC-MS/MS was validated to quantify the insecticide residues in immature kernel, mature kernel, cashew apple and in the field soil. The method performance was satisfactory with the LOQ, recovery and RSD values. Residue persistence of betacyfluthrin and imidacloprid on cashew was carried out after foliar spray of the combination formulation, betacyfluthrin 90 g ℓ-1 + imidacloprid 210 g ℓ-1 OD (Solomon) at recommended (2.5 ml 10 ℓ-1) and double the recommended (5 ml 10 ℓ-1) doses. The residues of betacyfluthrin and imidacloprid were at below LOQ of 0.05 mg kg-1 in all the samples at recommended and double the recommended dose. Soil sample collected at the time of harvest did not show betacyfluthrin and imidacloprid residues at their detection limit of 0.05 mg kg-1. The analytical method standardized for the extraction of betacyfluthrin and imidacloprid residues in cashew matrices offers advantages such as simplicity and also, less time consuming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The present study provides evidence on export advantages of horticultural commodities based on competitiveness, trade balance and seasonality dimensions. Design/methodology/approach: The study delineated horticultural commodities in terms of comparative advantage, examined temporal shifts in export advantages (mapping) and estimated seasonality. Product mapping was carried out using the Revealed Symmetric Comparative Advantage (RSCA) and Trade Balance Index (TBI). Seasonal advantages were examined through a graphical approach along with the objective tests, namely, modified QS-test (QS), Friedman-test (FT) and using a seasonal dummy. Findings: Cucumbers/gherkins, onions, preserved vegetables, fresh grapes, shelled cashew nuts, guavas, mangoes, and spices emerged as the most favorable horticultural products. India has a strong seasonal advantage in dried onions, cucumber/gherkins, shelled cashew nut, dried capsicum, coriander, cumin, and turmeric. The untapped potential in horticulture can be addressed by handling the trade barriers effectively, particularly the sanitary and phytosanitary issues, affecting the exports. Proper policies must be enacted to facilitate the investment in advanced agricultural technologies and logistics to ensure the desired quality and cost effectiveness. Research limitations/implications: Commodity-specific studies on value chain analysis would provide valuable insights into the issues hindering exports and realizing the untapped export potential. Originality/value: There is no holistic and recent study illustrating the horticulture export advantages covering a large number of commodities in the Indian context. The study would be helpful to the stakeholders for drawing useful policy implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of cashew nut shell extract (CNSE) and monensin on ruminal in vitro fermentation, CH 4 production, and ruminal bacterial community structure. Treatments were as follows: control (CON, basal diet without additives); 2.5 μ M monensin (MON); 0.1 mg CNSE granule/g DM (CNSE100); and 0.2 mg CNSE granule/g DM (CNSE200). Each treatment was incubated with 52 mL of buffered ruminal content and 500 mg of total mixed ration for 24 h using serum vials. The experiment was performed as a complete randomized block design with 3 runs. Run was used as a blocking factor. Each treatment had 5 replicates, in which 2 were used to determine nutrient degradability, and 3 were used to determine pH, NH 3 -N, volatile fatty acids, lactate, total gas, CH 4 production, and bacterial community composition. Treatment responses for all data, excluding bacterial abundance, were analyzed with the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS v9.4. Treatment responses for bacterial community structure were analyzed with a PERMANOVA test run with the R package vegan. Orthogonal contrasts were used to test the effects of (1) additive inclusion (ADD: CON vs. MON, CNSE100, and CNSE200); (2) additive type (MCN: MON vs. CNSE100 and CNSE200); and (3) CNSE dose (DOS: CNSE100 vs. CNSE200). We observed that pH, acetate, and acetate:propionate ratio in the CNSE100 treatment were lower compared with CNSE200, and propionate in the CNSE100 treatment was greater compared with CNSE200. Compared with MON, CNSE treatments tended to decrease total lactate concentration. Total gas production of CON was greater by 2.63% compared with all treatments, and total CH 4 production was reduced by 10.64% in both CNSE treatments compared with MON. Also, compared with MON, in vitro dry matter degradabilities in CNSE treatments were lower. No effects were observed for NH 3 -N or in vitro neutral detergent fiber degradability. Finally, the relative abundances of Prevotella , Treponema , and Schwartzia were lower, whereas the relative abundances of Butyrivibrio and Succinivibrio were greater in all treatments compared with CON. Overall, the inclusion of CNSE decreased CH 4 production compared with MON, making CNSE a possible CH 4 mitigation additive in dairy cattle diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The patterns and extent of genetic variation among 56 cashew germplasm with respect to 32 qualitative and 33 quantitative traits were evaluated for two successive years in the present study. Additionally, maturase K gene-based genetic diversity among those breeding materials was also assessed. The cashew hybrids were developed from five crosses (local parent × 2/9 Dicherla; H-2/15 × red hazari; WBDC-V × JGM-1; BLA-39-4 × H-2/15 and H-2/15 × yellow hazari) involving eight parents of Indian cashew. Different genotype groups (parents and their hybrids) showed significant variation in both the years of assessment based on quantitative characters. The highest Shannon–Weaver diversity (H ′) was obtained for the colour of the young leaf (0.96), possibly indicating differential exposure to sunlight, mixing of various pigments and another set of chemicals such as phenolics, carotenoids, etc. in trees. From correlation studies, canopy spread, tree spread, nuts/m2 and nuts/panicle were found to be significantly and positively correlated with nut yield. In the year 2021, nuts/m2, area and tree height were the significant explanatory variables that explained 80% of the variation in the yield, whereas in 2022, nuts/m2, tree area, nuts/panicle, kernel weight, shell thickness, inflorescence breadth and sex ratio explained 86% of the variation. Principal component analysis indicated that the genotypes under study are diverse enough to be exploited for the future cashew improvement programmes. [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]

Cashew is cultivated in varied agro-ecological regions of India and yield levels vary with regions. Therefore, to identify stable genotype for yield, 18 genotypes were tested in four environments for nut yield and ancillary traits during 2008 to 2018 in randomized block design with two replications. The data of 6th annual harvest and cumulative nut yield of six years was analyzed employing additive main effect and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) and genotype and genotype by environment (GGE) methods. Analysis of variance for 6th annual harvest indicated significant differences (p < 0.01) for eight traits. Environments varied significantly (p < 0.01) for seven traits. Genotype by environment (G × E) interactions were significant (p < 0.01) for all traits. Analysis of variance for cumulative yield revealed significant variations between genotypes, environments, G x E interactions. Interaction principal component analysis (IPCA) 1 (84.39%) and IPCA 2 (10.27%) together captured 95% of variability. Genotypes, environments and G × E interaction were accounted for 16.18%, 4.50% and 77.22% respectively of total variation. The environment Pilicode discriminated better while Vridhachalam was representative. BPP-8 and Vengulra-7 were the winning genotypes in Bhubaneswar while Kanaka and Priyanka in Pilicode, Vengurla-4 in Jhargram and UN-50 in Vridhachalam. Therefore, promoting cultivation of these winning genotypes in the corresponding environments is highly recommended to enhance cashew nut production. As per ASV (AMMI stability value,) K-22-1 was stable genotype followed by Bhubaneswar-1. As per YSI (yield stability index), Bhubaneswar-1 was stable and high yielding followed by K-22-1 and BPP-8. Thus stable genotypes identified in this study viz., K-22-1 and Bhuvaneswar-1 are recommended for cultivation in west and east regions of India which have most cashew growing areas for increasing the cashew nut production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cashew nuts are among the main cash crops in coastal Kenya, due in large part to their high nutritional value. Unfortunately, they also make them highly susceptible to mold contamination, resulting in biodeterioration of the nutritional value and potential contamination with toxic secondary metabolites, such as aflatoxins, that cause them to be rejected for sale at the market. We determined the population diversity of the Aspergillus species and their role in aflatoxin contamination in cashew nuts in selected coastal regions of Kenya. Fifty raw cashew nut samples were collected from post-harvest storage facilities across three counties in Kenya's coastal region and examined for moisture content and the presence of Aspergillus fungi. About 63 presumptive isolates were recovered from the cashew nuts. ITS and 28S rDNA regions were sequenced. The aflD, aflM and aflR genes were amplified to identify the potentially aflatoxigenic from the Aspergillus isolates. The Aflatoxins' presence on the isolates was screened using UV and the ammonia vapour test on coconut milk agar and validated using ELISA assay. A comparison of cashew moisture content between the three counties sampled revealed a significant difference. Sixty-three isolates were recovered and identified to section based on morphological characters and their respective ITS regions were used to obtain species identifications. Three sections from the genus were represented, Flavi and Nigri, and Terrei with isolates from the section Nigri having slightly greater abundance (n = 35). The aflD, aflM and aflR genes were amplified for all isolates to assess the presence of the aflatoxin biosynthesis pathway, indicating the potential for aflatoxin production. Less than half of the Aspergillus isolates (39.68%) contained the aflatoxin pathway genes, while 22.22% isolates were aflatoxigenic, which included only the section Flavi isolates. Section Flavi isolates identification was confirmed by calmodulin gene. The presence of species from Aspergillus section Flavi and section Nigri indicate the potential for aflatoxin or ochratoxin in the cashew nuts. The study established a foundation for future investigations of the fungi and mycotoxins contaminating cashew nuts in Kenya, which necessitates developing strategies to prevent infection by mycotoxigenic fungi, especially during the storage and processing phases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nuts have been known as a nutritious food since ancient times and can be considered part of our original diet: they are one of the few foods that have been eaten in the same form for thousands of years. They consist of various dry fruits and seeds, with the most common species being almonds (Prunus dulcis), hazelnuts (Corylus avellana), cashews (cashew nuts, Anacardium occidentale), pistachios (Pistacia vera), walnuts (Italian nuts, Juglans regia), peanuts (Arachia hypogaca), Brazil nuts (Bartholletia excels), pecans (Corya illinoinensis), macadamia nuts (Macademia ternifolia) and pine nuts. Both in vitro and in vivo studies have found nuts to possess a range of bioactive compounds with cardioprotective properties, and hence, their consumption may play a role in preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The present work reviews the current state of knowledge regarding the functional ingredients of various nuts (almonds, Brazil nuts, cashew nuts, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, peanuts, pecan nuts, pine nuts, pistachios, and walnuts) and the molecular mechanisms of their cardioprotective action. The data indicate that almonds, walnuts and pistachios are the best nut sources of bioactive ingredients with cardioprotective properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]