Publications by authors named "D Gizachew"

Article Synopsis
  • Almonds are vulnerable to a fungal infestation that produces aflatoxins, and this study examined how kernel type, temperature, water activity, and incubation time affect fungal growth and toxin levels.
  • At water activity levels of 0.85, no fungal growth was observed across all kernel types, while split kernels were the only type to support growth at 0.92.
  • The highest levels of aflatoxins were detected in shelled and split almonds at 0.98 water activity and 27 °C, with longer incubation times also leading to increased toxin accumulation.
  • The study suggests that shipping almonds at water activity levels below 0.85 and minimizing storage time can help reduce the risk of fungal infestation and aflatoxin production
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The hydrothermal approach is used in the current study to create an environmentally friendly silver zinc oxide nanocomposite utilizing an aqueous leaf extract of Rumex Crispus. The photochemical components of Rumex Crispus, a synthetic nanocomposite with antioxidant and antibacterial activity, were also assessed. The Response Surface Methodology of Definitive Screen Design (DSD) was used to examine and optimize the effects of four independent variables on the amount of green synthesized silver zinc oxide nanocomposite in Rumex Crispus extract.

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Abstract: Flax seed has become an increasingly popular food ingredient because of its nutrient richness as well as potential health benefits. Flax seeds are often ground before consumption, and flax seed cakes are used as animal feed. Aflatoxin production may occur subsequently when the ground seeds are stored in an environment that supports fungal growth.

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Nyjer oil seed cake supports high levels of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) production. AFB1 is a secondary metabolite of Aspergillus flavus and A. parasiticus, classified as a Class 1A carcinogen.

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Aspergillus fresenii and Aspergillus sulphureus produce ochratoxin A (OTA), which is a secondary metabolite of Aspergillus and Penicillium species, with nephrotoxic effects and potential carcinogenic activity. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of temperature (20, 30, and 37 °C), water activity (0.82, 0.

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