Antiplasmodial evaluation of Anacardium occidentale and alkyl-phenols

Abstract The ethanol crude extract from cashew (Anacardium occidentale L. Anacardiaceae) displayed significant antiplasmodial activity (IC50 0.577 µg/ml). Liquid chromatography-high resolution Mass spectrometry analysis was performed to identify the main compounds existing in the ethanol extract. The occurrence of anacardic acids, cardols, and 2-methylcardols derivatives was confirmed in the extract. The IC50 obtained, when the main isolated compounds were evaluated in Plasmodium falciparum D6 strain, ranged from 5.39 µM to >100 µM. Tested here for the first time, the data showed that cardol triene 1 (IC50 = 5.69 µM) and 2-methylcardol triene 4 (IC50 = 5.39 µM) demonstrated good antimalarial activity. In conclusion, Anacardium occidentale nuts presented relevant biological potential, and further studies should be considered.

Risk assessment of the occurrence of aflatoxin and fungi in peanuts and cashew nuts

In the present study, the occurrence of fungi and aflatoxins (AFs) in peanut and cashew nut samples was investigated. Mycological analysis revealed the presence of fungi in 58.8% of samples, and assessment of AFs by chromatographic methods revealed that 52.9% were contaminated by AFs. AFB1 was the principal component in all AF-contaminated samples, with a mean level of 14.0, and 1.08 µg/kg in peanut and cashew nut, respectively. Eleven samples (32.4%) exceeded the total AF maximum level (4 µg/kg) and 8 samples (23.5%) exceeded the AFB1 (2 µg/kg) established by the European Commission. Our findings suggest that the incidence of AFs emphasizes the need for regular monitoring and a more stringent food safety system to control AFs at the lowest possible levels in peanuts and cashew nuts. The hypothetical dietary exposure suggests that the food products evaluated may significantly contribute to the overall human exposure

Functional oils affect blood and bacteriological parameters in sheep / Los aceites funcionales afectan parámetros sanguíneos y bacteriológicos en ovinos / Óleos funcionais afetam parâmetros sanguíneos e bacteriológicos em ovinos

Abstract Background: Feeding ionophores to sheep is intended for improving feed efficiency. Functional oils (FO) are an alternative to the use of ionophores. Objective: To evaluate the effect of feeding FO to sheep on blood parameters and fecal bacteria. Methods: Five sheep were used in a Latin square design with five treatments: 190, 285, 380, 570, and 675 g/t FO in the diet. White cell count and levels of blood glucose, total protein, urea nitrogen, and fecal bacteria presence in feces were determined. Results: The FO levels did not affect serum parameters. Salmonella spp was found only in feces of sheep fed 190 mg/t FO. Conclusion: Functional oils can be added to sheep diets to reduce the presence of Salmonella spp in the feces.

Resumen Antecedentes: Los ionóforos se suministran a los ovinos para mejorar la eficiencia alimenticia. Una alternativa al uso de ionóforos son los aceites funcionales (FO). Objetivo: Evaluar los efectos del suministro de FO en el alimento sobre los parámetros sanguíneos y bacterias fecales de ovinos. Métodos: Cinco ovejos fueron usados en un diseño de cuadrado latino con cinco tratamientos: 190, 285, 380, 570 y 675 g/t FO en la dieta. Se realizó conteo de leucocitos y niveles de glucosa, proteína total y nitrógeno ureico, y se determinó la presencia de bacterias fecales. Resultados: La inclusión dietaria de FO no afectó los parametros séricos. Se encontró Salmonella spp únicamente en heces de los ovinos que habían consumido 190 mg/t FO. Conclusión: Se puede agregar FO a la dieta de ovinos para reducir la presencia de Salmonella spp en heces.

Resumo Antecedentes: Na produção animal, ionóforos são ingeridos por ovinos para melhorar a eficiência alimentar. Alternativa ao uso de ionóforos são os óleos funcionais (FO). Objetivos: Avaliar os efeitos de FO em ovinos por meio da alimentação sobre os parâmetros sanguíneos e bacteriológicos. Métodos: Cinco ovinos foram usados em Quadrado Latino com cinco tratamentos: 190, 285, 380, 570 e 675 g/t FO nas dietas. Contagem de leucócitos e níveis de glicose, proteína total, nitrogênio ureico e presença de bactérias nas fezes foram determinados. Resultados: Os níveis de FO não afetaram os níveis séricos dos fatores mencionados. Salmonella spp foi encontrada somente em fezes de ovinos que haviam ingerido dietas com 190 mg/t FO. Conclusão: Óleos funcionais podem ser adicionados em dietas para ovinos para reduzir a presença de Salmonella spp nas fezes.

Preliminary study of phytochemical constituents and antimicrobial activity of two varieties of cashew apple grown in Nigeria

Aims@#The specific aim of this study was to investigate the phytochemical constituents and antimicrobial activities of cashew apple (Anacardium occidentale) grown in Nigeria. @*Methodology and results@#The cashew apples (red and yellow) were plucked directly from parent tree, sliced and drained in a press. Thereafter, it was dried, grounded and extracted using solvent percolation. The extracts were screened for the presence of phytochemicals and antimicrobial activities against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Aspergillus fumigatus and Candida albicans using agar well diffusion method while the minimum inhibitory concentration was done using tube dilution technique. Alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, steroids, glycosides, terpenoids, phenols and anthraquinones were found in the two varieties at varying degree. However, saponin was not detected in either of the variety. The antimicrobial activities of the red and yellow cashew apples were comparable at all the concentrations used. Also, these activities were concentration dependent in all the samples as increased zones of inhibition were observed as the concentrations increased. There was a significant (p ≤ 0.05) difference between the antimicrobial activities of the different extracts. The largest inhibition zones were recorded against E. coli (22.33±0.15 mm) and K. pneumoniae (24.33±0.01 mm) for red cashew apple ethanol extracts at 30mg/mL while A. fumigatus (5.33±0.00 mm) showed the least zone of inhibition against the same extract. Ethanol extracts recorded the highest inhibitory activities against all the test organisms, followed by aqueous extract while n-hexane extract had the least inhibitory activity on the organisms. The least MIC recorded was 2.5 mg/mL and it was obtained against S. aureus (Red aqueous extract, red and yellow ethanol extracts), E. coli and K. pneumoniae (red and yellow ethanol extracts) while the highest MIC was 30 mg/mL recorded against B. subtilis (yellow n-hexane extract). In all, the ethanol extracts of the cashew apples showed comparable antimicrobial activities with the controls at 30 mg/mL. @*Conclusion, significance and impact of study@#The result of this investigation confirms the presence of bioactive substances in cashew apple which may be responsible for its antimicrobial activities against selected microorganisms, consequently, supporting the folkloric use of the apple in the treatment of various diseases.

Cashew nut allergy in Singaporean children

BACKGROUND: There has been an increasing trend of nut allergies in Singapore. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to review the clinical characteristics of children with cashew nut allergy. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted in a tertiary paediatric referral centre in Singapore from 2008 to 2015. A total of 99 subjects with positive specific IgE (≥0.35 IU/L) to cashew nut were identified. Clinical features including demographics, clinical reaction to cashew nut, associations with other nuts and test specific measurements were recorded. RESULTS: The results showed that cutaneous symptoms (71.2%) were the most common allergic manifestations. Anaphylaxis occurred in 3.8% of children. In addition, all cashew nut allergic subjects were cross-reactive (either sensitized or allergic) to pistachio. Cross-reactivity rate with peanuts was 53.8%. There was a strong prevalence of atopy among cashew nut allergic subjects. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, cashew nut allergy is a significant tree nut allergy in Singapore.

Identification and pest status of Holopothrips fulvus (Thysanoptera: Phlaeothripidae) on dwarf-cashew crops in northeastern Brazil

Abstract Cashew, Anacardium occidentale L. (Anacardiaceae), is one of the most important sources of agricultural income in northeastern Brazil, but many of the arthropods associated with the crop have yet to be identified. We describe here for the first time the damage caused by Holopothrips fulvus (Morgan) (Thysanoptera: Phlaeothripidae) to dwarf-cashew trees cultivated in the municipality of Pacajús, Ceará, Brazil. Leaf tissue injuries were caused by the sucking mouthparts of the insect and were characterized by dark necrotic spots on the epidermis that resulted in yellowing, wilting and, ultimately, abscission of the leaves. H. fulvus also fed on developing kernels and pseudofruits producing injuries that manifested in the form of chlorotic specks. Additional information is given on the pest status and important aspects of the morphology of the insect, including sexual dimorphism, redescription of the adults and description of the second instar larvae.

Quality and Sensory Characteristics of Cashew Dressing Added with Paprika Juice

The aim of this study was to determine the optimal amount of paprika juice added to cashew dressing. This study presents fundamental data on the quality and sensory characteristics of cashew dressings added with paprika juice (addition of 20%, 40% yellow, red and green paprika juice instead of water). The pH of cashew dressing added with paprika juice was 4.61~4.80, whereas that of control was 4.35. The viscosity of cashew dressing added with paprika juice was 34,130.5~36,515.3 cp while that of control was 26,558.8 cp. L value of control (73.83) was higher than those of other groups (65.45~72.23), and a value of dressing added with red paprika juice (9.81~10.42) was higher than those of other groups. Preference of cashew dressings added with paprika juice and foods was evaluated. The sweet, sour, and savory tastes showed no significant differences between control and cashew dressings added with paprika juice. Preference of color of cashew dressing with green paprika juice was higher than those of other groups, and the preference of cashew dressing added with yellow paprika juice 20% (Y20) was higher than those of other groups. The Y20 sample received the highest score in sensory evaluation. In the sensory evaluation for food and dressing (Y20), chicken cutlets and fruit salad received higher scores than other foods. It is expected that cashew added with paprika juice will be utilized as a healthy dressing.

In vitro Antibacterial Activity of Aqueous Extracts of Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) Fruit Peels Using Bioautography Method.

Aims: Bark, leaves and gum of cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) have been reported to be effective in curtailing the growing problems of resistance of bacterial pathogens. The in vitro activity of aqueous extracts of cashew apple peels was determined in this study against two clinically important pathogens. Place and Duration of Study: The work was conducted at the Department of Microbiology, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria and processed immediately. This study was carried out between June, 2009 and January, 2010. Methodology: Bioautographic method was used to test the antibacterial activity of aqueous (cold and hot water) extracts of cashew apple peels on Escherichia coli O157:H7 and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The zones of inhibition of the extracts were compared. Results: The activity of the fifth hour hot water extract was highest with zones of inhibition of 415.48 and 346.30 sq. mm against E. coli O157:H7 and MRSA respectively. E. coli O157:H7 was more susceptible to the extract with the zone of inhibition ranging between 176.79 and 283.53 sq. mm while that of MRSA was153.94 - 346.30 sq. mm. The 5 h extract of cold water was more potent on the test organisms with 615.75 and 490.87 sq. mm diameters of inhibition on E. coli O157:H7 and MRSA respectively. Cold water extracts produced more active compounds (13 biologically active spots) that inhibited the growth of the test organisms than the hot water extracts, with six spots. Conclusion: The extracts of the peels of the cashew apple against the test organisms are promising. However, the nature and mechanisms of action of the biologically active compounds in the extracts are still open to investigation.

Anticandidal efficacy of denture cleansing tablet, Triphala, Aloe vera, and Cashew leaf on complete dentures of institutionalized elderly.

With an increase in the number of dependent elderly, there is a need to introduce few natural products for denture cleansing, which are easily and economically available. Hence the aim of this study was to compare the anticandidal efficacy of denture cleansing tablet (sodium bicarbonate and sodium perborate monohydrate), Triphala (Phyllanthus emblica, Terminalia chebula and Terminalia belerica fruits powders in equal proportion), cashew leaf, Aloe vera and water (control) on complete dentures of institutionalized elderly. Study population consisted of 50 institutionalized elderly of Mangalore, Karnataka, with 10 in each group. Swabs were collected from the dentures before and after the use of denture cleansing tablet, Triphala, cashew leaf, Aloe vera, and water (control). Thereafter, the swabs were cultured on Sabouraud dextrose agar and the total candida counts were determined. Denture cleansing tablet and Triphala Churna showed a statistically significant reduction in Candida counts (P < 0.05). Denture cleansing tablet and Triphala Churna were found to be more effective.

Cashew apple juice as microbial cultivation medium for non-immunogenic hyaluronic acid production

In this work, natural cashew apple juice was used as cultivation medium as an alternative to substitute brain heart infusion medium. The effect of aeration and juice supplementation with yeast extract on the production of hyaluronic acid in batch fermentation was also investigated. Similar levels of cell mass were obtained in inoculum using cashew apple juice supplemented with yeast extract or the conventional brain heart infusion medium. Fermentation in Erlenmeyer flasks produced low biomass and hyaluronic acid concentrations. The hyaluronic acid concentration and viscosity increased from 0.15 g/L and 3.87 cP (no aeration or medium supplementation) to 1.76 g/L and 107 cP, when aeration (2 vvm) and 60 g/L of yeast extract were used. The results suggest the production of low-molecular weight hyaluronic acid oligomers instead of the high molecular weight polymer.

POLYPHENOLS AND ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF CASHEW NUTS FROM CONVENTIONAL AND ORGANIC CULTIVATION IN DIFFERENT STAGES OF PROCESSING

This research aimed to determine the total extractable polyphenols and the antioxidant activity of cashew nut obtained from conventional and organic cultivation. The study was performed with cashew nuts collected at four stages of processing: after shelling, before peeling, after peeling and during packaging. The antioxidant activity was measured by the methods with the radicals ABTS•+ and DPPH• and by the ß-carotene/linoleic acid system. The nuts collected in the steps after shelling and before peeling presented higher antioxidant activity than those collected after peeling and during packaging. Little variation occurred in the content of total extractable polyphenols and antioxidant activity by ABTS•+ and DPPH• assays between the two cultivation methods studied.

Metabolitos secundarios y actividad antibacteriana in vitro de extractos de hojas de Anacardium occidentale L. (marañón) / Secondary metabolites and in vitro antibacterial activity of extracts from Anacardium occidentale L. (Cashew tree) leaves

Introducción: las hojas de Anacardium occidentale L. (marañón) tienen contenidos óptimos de nutrientes; se ha utilizado como antidiarreico y nutracéutico en animales, sin embargo, la caracterización fitoquímica y antimicrobiana de sus extractos son insuficientes. Objetivo: determinar los metabolitos secundarios y la actividad antimicrobiana in vitro de extractos de hojas de Anacardium occidentale L. Métodos: del polvo de las hojas de Anacardium occidentale L. se obtuvo inicialmente el extracto fluido y la tintura al 20 por ciento. Se realizó tamizaje fitoquímico y pruebas de calidad de las preparaciones farmacéuticas. Se determinó la actividad antibacteriana (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus Bacillus subtilis, Salmonella entérica, Shigella sp.) de tres diluciones del extracto seco (50, 100 y 200 mg/mL) de la tintura al 20 por ciento y de los extractos n-hexánico, clorofórmico y acetato de etilo (Escherichia coli, Shigella sp., Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella entérica, Pseudomonas aeruginosa y Enterobacter aerogenes), con posterior caracterización fitoquímica. Resultados: en el extracto fluido y en la tintura al 20 por ciento se detectaron cumarinas y otros metabolitos como saponinas, flavonoides, azúcares reductores, aminoácidos libres, triterpenos/esteroides, fenoles/taninos. El índice de refracción, la densidad, el pH y los sólidos totales mostraron resultados similares para el extracto fluido y la tintura al 20 por ciento. Además, para estos indicadores no se encontraron diferencias significativas 6 meses después. El extracto seco mostró actividad antibacteriana contra Staphylococcus aureus, con los mayores halos de inhibición para la dilución de 200 mg/mL. Asimismo, el extracto de acetato de etilo indicó el menor crecimiento de esta bacteria patógena, según los halos de inhibición. En los extractos, clorofórmico y acetato de etilo

Introduction: the leaves of Anacardium occidentale L. (cashew tree) have optimal contents of nutrients and have been used as antidiarrheal and nutraceutical in animals; however, the phytochemical characterization and antimicrobial of the extracts are insufficient. Objective: to determine secondary metabolites and in vitro antimicrobial activity of Anacardium occidentale L. leaf extracts. Methods: fluid extract and 20% tincture were initially obtained from powdered leaves of Anacardium occidentale L. Phytochemical screening and quality testing of pharmaceuticals were performed. The antibacterial activity was determined (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus Bacillus subtilis, Salmonella enteric and Shigella sp.) in three dilutions of the dry extract (50, 100, and 200 mg/mL) from the 20 percent tincture and from the n-hexane, chloroform and ethyl acetate extracts (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Shigella sp., Salmonella enteric, Pseudomonas aerugiosa and Enterobacter aerogenes), with subsequent phytochemical characterization. Results: high content of coumarins and other metabolites such as saponins, flavonoids, reducing sugars, free aminoacids, triterpenes and/or steroids, phenols and/or tannins were detected in the fluid extract and the 20 percent tincture. The refractive index, the density, the pH and the total solids showed similar results for the fluid extract and for the 20 percent tincture. Besides, no significant differences were found in these parameters six months after the study. The dry extract showed antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, with the largest inhibition zones for dilution of 200 mg/mL. Furthermore, the ethyl acetate extract indicated the slowest growth of this bacterial pathogen, according to inhibition hales. In the chloroform and ethyl acetate extracts, abundant coumarins and reducing sugars were found. Conclusions: the fluid extract and the 20 percent tincture from Anacardium occidentale leaves contained

Efecto nutracéutico del Anacardium occidentale en dietas de pollitas ponedoras de reemplazo / Nutraceutical effect of Anacardium occidentale in diets of replacement laying pullets

Objetivo. Evaluar el efecto nutracéutico del polvo de hojas y retoños de Anacardium occidentale (AO) en dietas de pollitas ponedoras de remplazo. Materiales y métodos. Se utilizaron 240 pollitas White Leghorn (L-33) de un día de edad, que se ubicaron durante 35 días, según diseño completamente aleatorizado, con niveles de adición de 0, 0.5, 1.5 y 2.5% de polvo de hojas y retoños de Anacardium occidentale en las dietas. Se determinaron en las pollitas, los indicadores productivos, peso absoluto y relativo de los órganos inmunes, vísceras, accesorios e intestinos, la hipersensibilidad intestinal y la glucosa sérica. Resultados. El peso vivo final, consumo de alimento, peso del timo, bolsa de Fabricio y colon + recto en las aves con el tracto gastrointestinal vacío y lleno, fue favorable con la adición de 0.5% de polvo AO, con diferencias significativas (p≤0.05). El consumo acumulado, el consumo de polvo AO y taninos se incrementaron en las aves con la adición de 1.5 y 2.5% de polvo AO con respecto al control; no obstante los indicadores productivos para estos animales se deprimieron. La adición del polvo de AO, no deterioró el peso relativo de las vísceras (corazón, hígado y riñón) en las aves, además redujo la hipersensibilidad intestinal y la glucosa sérica. Conclusiones. La adición de 0.5% de polvo de hojas y retoños de AO como nutracéutico en las dietas de pollitas ponedoras de remplazo, mejoró los indicadores productivos y el peso de los órganos inmunes; además, la adición del polvo AO en las dietas disminuyó la hipersensibilidad intestinal y la glucosa sérica.

Objective. To assess the nutraceutical effect of powder from leaves and shoots of Anacardium occidentale (AO) in the diets of replacement laying pullets. Materials and methods. 240 day-old White Leghorn chicks (L-33), were placed for 35 days, according to a completely randomized design with addition levels of 0, 0.5, 1.5 and 2.5% of leaves and shoots powder of AO, in their diets. In the case of chicks, production indicators, absolute and relative weight of immune organs, viscera, innards and intestines, intestinal hypersensitivity and serum glucose were determined. Results. The final body weight, the cumulative feed intake, the weight of thymus, bursa of Fabricio, and colon + rectum with empty and full gastrointestinal tract in the birds, were favorable with the addition of 0.5 % of AO powder with significant difference between (p≤0.05). Cumulative intake, consumption of AO powder and tannins were increased in birds with 1.5 and 2.5% of AO powder compared to the control group; however, the production indicators for these animals were reduced. The addition of AO powder did not impair the relative weight of the viscera (heart, liver and kidney) in birds; also, the intestinal hypersensitivity and serum glucose were reduced. Conclusions. The addition of 0.5% of powder from leaves and shoots of AO as nutraceutical in diets for replacement pullets and laying hens, improved the productive indicators and weight of immune organs, plus the addition of three levels of dust in the diets, decreased intestinal hypersensitivity and serum glucose.

Composición química y tamizaje fitoquímico del polvo de hojas y retoños del Anacardium occidentale L (marañón) / Chemical composition and phytochemical screening of leaf and shoot powder of Anacardium occidentale L (cashew tree)

Introducción: la composición química y el tamizaje fitoquímico de una planta medicinal puede definir sus beneficios; la literatura refiere información de estas determinaciones en la fruta del Anacardium occidentale L; no obstante, en cuanto a las hojas y retoños no se encontró información suficiente. Objetivo: determinar la composición química y el tamizaje fitoquímico en el polvo de hojas y retoños del Anacardium occidentale L Métodos: en el polvo de hojas y retoños de Anacardium occidentale L se determinó la composición bromatológica, algunos carbohidratos, material saponificable, fitoesteroles, minerales, ácidos grasos y tamizaje fitoquímico; mediante técnicas del Ministerio de Salud Pública, Official Methods of Analysis, cromatografía gaseosa, espectrofotometría de absorción atómica y cromatografía líquida de alta eficiencia. Resultados: el polvo de hojas y retoños de A occidentale mostró un aceptable contenido de materia seca, proteína bruta, betasitosterol y stigmasterol. El ácido graso saturado octadecanoico y el monoinsaturado gadoleico se detectaron con mayores cuantías en el polvo. Se observó una concentración significativa del potasio y del mineral traza manganeso. En el tamizaje fitoquímico, el extracto etéreo no presentó alcaloides, las coumarinas y quinonas se detectaron en el extracto etanólico y acuoso, respectivamente. Las antocianidinas, triterpenos o esteroides y taninos se observaron en el extracto etanólico. Además en ambos extractos (acuoso y etanólico) se detectaron flavonoides y saponinas. Conclusiones: según la composición química y la presencia de metabolitos secundarios benéficos en el polvo de las hojas y retoños de A. occidentale se recomienda el estudio de este polvo en humanos y animales, como nutracéutico o terapéutico

Introduction: the chemical composition and phytochemical screening of a medicinal plant can define its benefits. The literature covers information about these determinations on the fruit of Anacardium occidentale L but little information was found about its leaves and shoots. Objective: to determine the chemical composition and phytochemical screening in the leaf and shoot powder from Anacardium occidentale L Methods: bromatological composition, some carbohydrates, saponifiable material, phytosterols, minerals, fatty acids and phytochemical screening were determined in leaf and shoot powder from Anacardium occidentale L, using techniques approved by the Ministry of Public Health, Official Methods of Analysis, gas chromatography, atomic absorption spectrophotometer and high-performance liquid chromatography. Results: the leaf and shoot powder from Anacardium occidentale L showed an acceptable content of dry matter, crude protein, beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol. Saturated fatty acid and monounsaturated octadecenoic, gadoleic larger amounts were detected in the powder. There was a significant concentration of potassium and manganese trace mineral. In the phytochemical screening, the ether extract showed no alkaloids, the coumarins and quinones were detected in the ethanol and aqueous extract, respectively. Anthocyanidins, triterpenes or steroids and tannins were observed in the ethanol extract. Also, in both extracts (aqueous and ethanolic) flavanoids and saponins were detected. Conclusions: according to the chemical composition and the presence of beneficial secondary metabolites, it is recommended to study the use of leaf and shoot powder from A occidentale in humans and animals as a nutraceutic or therapeutical agent

A survey of soil fertility status of cashew nut gardens of South Goa, India.

Characterization of surface soil for fertility was studied by taking ten representative samples of traditional cashew nut gardens in south Goa. Study revealed that soils are acidic (slight to moderate) in nature with non saline low cation exchange capacity. The available nitrogen content varied from 108 (low) to 945kg/ha (high). The data on available phosphorus ( P2O5 ) indicate low 16.13 to high 18.82 kg/ha indicating low nutrient indices. Potassium status was from 44.8 to 291.2 kg/ha. The exchangeable cation is in the ratio of 1:3 with high fertility rating.

Respostas reprodutivas e metabólicas de ovelhas alimentadas com bagaço de caju desidratado, durante o pós-parto / Reproductive and metabolic responses of ewes fed dehydrated cashew apple bagasse during the postpartum period

Avaliou-se o efeito da adição de bagaço de caju desidratado (BCD), durante o pós-parto, em 41 ovelhas, alojadas com suas crias em baias, onde recebiam, à vontade, 75 por cento de capim-elefante + 25 por cento de concentrado (DI; n=17), ou 50 por cento de BCD + 25 por cento de capim-elefante + 25 por cento de concentrado (DII; n=24). Cinquenta dias pós-parto, o estro foi sincronizado, e as ovelhas submetidas à monta natural. O grupo DI perdeu mais peso (P<0,05), e o consumo de proteína bruta e de fibra em detergente neutro foi maior nesse grupo (P<0,001). A inclusão de BCD na dieta II induziu ao aumento do consumo de matéria seca, extrato etéreo e fibra em detergente ácido (P<0,001) e redução significativa das concentrações de colesterol, lipídios totais, albumina e proteína total (P<0,001). Não houve diferença entre os grupos (P>0,05) no tempo de retorno do primeiro corpo lúteo funcional, na resposta à sincronização do estro e nas taxas de gestação e prolificidade. A inclusão de 50 por cento de BCD amenizou as perdas de peso, foi bem consumida e não influenciou nas respostas reprodutivas após a sincronização do estro.

The effect of the addition of dehydrated cashew apple bagasse (DCB) to the diet on ewe postpartum response was evaluated on 41 ewes, housed with their kids in pens, where they received two diets containing 75 percent of Elephant Grass plus 25 percent of concentrate (Diet I; n=17), or 50 percent of DCB plus 25 percent of Elephant Grass plus 25 percent of concentrate (Diet II; n=24). On the 50th day postpartum, estrus was synchronized and ewes mated. Diet Igroup exhibited a greater loss of live weight (P<0.05) and higher intakes of crude protein and neutral detergent fiber (P<0.001). By contrast, animals from diet II showed a significantly increase in dry matter, ether extract, and acid detergent fiber intakes (P<0.001), and lower plasmatic concentrations of cholesterol, total lipids, albumin, and total protein (P<0.001). No differences were found between groups (P>0.05) for the presence of first functionally CL, estrus synchronization response, and gestation or prolificity rates. Thus, the addition of DCB to the diet was well accepted, induced a reduction of weight loss, and did not affect the reproductive response of ewes.

Colletotrichum isolates related to anthracnose of cashew trees in Brazil: morphological and molecular description using LSU rDNA sequences

Thirty six isolates of fungi obtained from anthracnose lesions of cashew and associated host plants in Brazil, were compared by their cultural, morphological and partial sequences of the 28S ribosomal DNA characters. They showed a high degree of cultural variability. The average mycelial growth rate on all tested media ranged from 10.2-13.3 mm/day between the isolates. Most of them produced perithecia (sterile and fertile) and some produced setae (sterile and fertile). All the isolates produced acervuli with predominantly cylindrical conidia (12.4-17.7 µmX 4.8-6.0 µm in width) with round ends, which became septate on germination, and produced unlobed or slightlylobed appressoria. Comparison of the D2 domain of the large subunit (LSU) rDNA sequences with those of other defined species of Colletotrichum and Glomerella grouped 35 of the isolates with known strains of C. gloeosporioides from different hosts (> 98.9 percent homology). The one exception (LARS 921) was identical to G. cingulata (LARS 238) from Vigna unguiculata.

Trinta e seis isolados de fungos obtidos de lesões de antracnose em cajueiros e outras plantas consorciadas no Brasil, foram comparados quanto a seus aspectos culturais, morfológicos e seqüências parciais do rDNA 28S. Os isolados apresentaram elevado grau de variabilidade cultural, com taxa de crescimento médio, em todos os meios testados, entre 10,2 e 13,3 mm/dia. A maioria deles produziu peritécios (estéreis e férteis), e alguns produziram setas (estéreis e férteis) nos diferentes meios. Todos apresentaram acérvulos com predominância de conídios cilíndricos (12,4-17,7 µm X 4,8-6,0 µm), de extremidades arredondadas, formando septos durante a germinação e produzindo apressórios ligeiramente lobados ou lisos. Comparando as seqüências do domínio D2 da larga subunidade (LSU) do rDNA dos isolados com aquelas já identificadas de espécies de Colletotrichum/ Glomerella, verificou-se que 35 deles correspondem a C. gloeosporioides (> 98,9 por cento de homologia), e um deles, o isolado 921, é idêntico a G. cingulata (LARS 238) de V. unguiculata.

Cashew nut extract (De BCC) in the treatment of basal cell carcinoma

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) remains as the most common cutaneous neoplasm in the Philippines consisting of more than 60% of all skin cancers. Anacardium occidentale (Linn.) cashew extract, which had been used successfully in the removal of warts and moles in previous studies, is presented as a therapeutic option in BCC. METHODS: An open-label prospective study was conducted on 36 patients (mean age of 65 years) with documented BCC lesions on middle third of the face. Cashew nut extract (DeBCC) application was offered to these patients as an alternative option to very unacceptable extirpative surgery offered by general and plastic surgeons as treatment for their lesions. Lesion size ranged from 7.5- 64 mm. (26.26 mm). Topical treatment was applied every 1-2 weeks, as needed. Follow-up examinations with photographic documentation were made every week to evaluate success of the treatment. RESULTS: After a mean of 7 treatment applications (range of 1-20) all the lesions were undetectable on clinical examinations. Mild tingling sensation, which was reported by all patients during the treatment applications, was tolerable on all occasions. With follow-up ranging from 5-60 months (38.72 months), 16 patients completed the planned 5 - year post-treatment follow-up period. There were no recurrences detected. CONCLUSIONS: Anacardium occidentale (Linn.) cashew extract (DeBCC) presents a viable and acceptable treatment option in primary BCC. The importance of this treatment option could be stressed in patients with lesions not amenable to the prescribed wide margin of resection needed in surgery.

Evaluation of the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of the acetone extract from Anacardium occidentale L / Avaliação dos efeitos antinociceptivo e antiinflamatório do extrato acetônico de Anacardium occidentale L

The stem bark of Anacardium occidentale L. (Anacardiaceae), commonly called cashew, is used in Brazilian traditional medicine for the treatment of gastric and inflammatory disorders. The present study was carried out to investigate the in vivo anti-inflammatory activities of the acetone extract (AE) of the stem bark of A. occidentale. We evaluated the pharmacological activities of this plant material through the analgesic, antiedematogenic and chemotaxic inhibitory effects produced by the AE. The oral administration (p.o.) of mice with the AE (0.1, 0.3 and 1.0 g/kg) or positive control indomethacin (10 mg/kg) inhibited acetic acid-induced writhing by 18.9, 35.9, 62.9 and 68.9 percent, respectively (ID50 percent = 530 mg/kg). The highest dose of the AE was able to inhibit croton oil-induced ear edema formation by 56.8 percent (indomethacin at 10 mg/kg, p.o. - 57.6 percent inhibition). When submitted to the carrageenan-induced peritonitis test, the AE (0.1, 0.3 and 1.0 g/kg, p.o.) impaired leukocyte migration into the peritoneal cavity by 24.8, 40.5 and 49.6 percent, respectively. The positive control, dexamethasone (2 mg/kg, s.c.), inhibited leukocyte migration by 66.9 percent. These results indicate the presence of anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive principles in the acetone extract of Anacardium occidentale, and reinforce the plant's potential therapeutic use against pain and inflammatory diseases.

As cascas do caule do Anacardium occidentale L. (Anacardiaceae), conhecido como cajueiro, são popularmente utilizadas no Brasil para o tratamento de doenças gástricas e inflamatórias. Este estudo teve como objetivo a avaliação farmacológica in vivo da atividade antiinflamatória do extrato acetônico (AE) obtido das cascas do A. occidentale, investigando os efeitos analgésico, antiedematogênico e inibitório sobre a quimiotaxia deste material botânico. A administração oral (p.o.) em camundongos com o AE (0,1; 0,3 e 1 g/kg) ou o controle positivo indometacina (10 mg/kg) inibiu as contorções abdominais induzidas pelo ácido acético em 18,9; 35,9; 62,9 e 68,9 por cento respectivamente (ID50 por cento = 530 mg/kg). Esta maior dose do AE também inibiu o edema de orelha produzido pelo óleo de cróton em 56,8 por cento (indometacina, 10 mg/kg, p.o. - 57,6 por cento de inibição). No teste da peritonite induzido pela carragenina, o AE (0,1; 0,3; e 1,0 mg/kg, p.o.) reduziu a migração de leucócitos para a cavidade peritoneal em 24,8; 40,5; e 49,6 por cento respectivamente, enquanto que o controle positivo dexametasona (2 mg/kg, s.c.) inibiu a migração de leucócitos em 66,9 por cento. Estes resultados indicam a presença de princípios ativos antiinflamatórios e antinociceptivos no extrato acetônico de Anacardium occidentale e reforçam o potencial terapêutico da planta em doenças que envolvem dor e inflamação.