Progress 10/01/05 to 09/30/10
Outputs
OUTPUTS: During the past year, Mr. Oscar Ramos completed his Master's thesis and a final project report was prepared. The major accomplishments of this project fall into the following three categories: I) Use of proton magnetic resonance (H-MR) to measure properties of fruits, foods, and agricultural products; II) Fungal susceptibility (FS) measurements on shelled corn; and III) Determination of physical and compositional properties of corn hybrids related to conditioning, drying and processing. Category I: Tests were conducted on individual apples, on protein solutions, and on samples of dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS). Whole apples, with and without watercore and internal browning, were tested in a low field (5.35 MHz) H-MR sensor. Apples were interrogated using a CPMG-T2 pulse sequence as they moved through the machine on a belt. Changes in the T2 relaxation signals indicated the presence and severity of internal browning and the presence of watercore. Detection accuracy decreased as belt speed increased. A Maran Ultra 15 MHz H-MR sensor was used to investigate protein denaturation and aggregation. When the milk protein Beta Lactoglobulin was heated above its denaturation temperature, aggregation rather than denaturation caused changes in T2. Finally, the 5.35 MHz sensor could rapidly measure the moisture content (MC) of DDGS. The parameters of a 3-term exponential model fit to the T2 relaxation curves changed with MC. Predicted MC was within 1.0% of the oven MC's. Category II: Tests with a CO2 test kit developed by Woods End Laboratory (Mt. Vernon, Maine) demonstrated that it could be used to test the susceptibility of corn to invasion by storage fungi (FS). The MC's of corn samples were adjusted to 21% to promote fungal growth. Fungi produce CO2 and therefore the CO2 concentration in the jars is an indicator of fungal growth. The kit determines the %CO2 in jars from the color of an indicator gel affixed to a plastic paddle. The kit distinguished among samples with differing FS. Samples were rewetted to either 16% or 21% MC and incubated at either 24C or 30C. Although fungal growth was faster at higher MC's and temperatures, the FS's at the four possible temperature-moisture combinations were correlated. Temperature and moisture had a secondary effect on the type of fungi that grew. The newly developed digital color reader (DCR) increased the kit's ability to distinguish more subtle differences in FS. Category III. Samples from over 100 yellow or white corn hybrids and several specialty hybrids (high amylose, waxy, high oil, etc.) were evaluated. Properties included kernel and bulk density, kernel weight, pericarp thickness, hardness, germ to endosperm ratio, water absorption rate, and equilibrium moisture content (EMC). The EMC's of the hybrids varied by up to several percentage points and there were large variations in Stenvert hardness and water absorption rates. Compositions (protein, starch, oil, fiber) were determined using NIR. Relationships among the various attributes were investigated using regression analysis. Detailed results are available in the thesis and will be presented in journal publications. PARTICIPANTS: Magnetic Instrumentation, Inc. of Indianapolis Indiana provided the low field magnetic resonance sensor used for magnetic resonance studies on apples and DDGS. USDA Appalachian Tree Fruit Research station provided apples used in the tests. The study on proteins was conducted with no outside support because the graduate student did this as a project for her research program. The DDGS MR study was part of a larger project sponsored by Purdue University Agricultural Research Programs and the Indiana State Department of Agriculture. Woods End Research Laboratory, Inc. and the Andersons Research Fund provided funding for the CO2 kit study of fungal susceptibility measurements. Dr. Paul Armstrong at the Grain Marketing and Production Research Center (GMPRC) in Manhattan, Kansas collaborated on the measurements of corn hybrid properties. The Anderson Research Fund and the USDA Grain Marketing and Production Research Center provided funding for the study on properties of corn hybrids. TARGET AUDIENCES: The target audience for the Magnetic Resonance research includes the fruit and vegetable packing and processing industries, food processors working with proteins, and facilities that produce corn-based ethanol. The target for fungal susceptibility measurement is the grain industry. The hybrid properties research is also targeted towards the grain industry (particularly corn growers, corn processors and corn breeders.) PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.
Impacts
Category I: Tests indicate that analysis of the low field MR (LFMR) T2 relaxation curves of apples could indicate the presence and severity of internal browning and watercore. If the LFMR sensor can be adapted for use in sorting lines or grading stations, it may be feasible to use it for removing defective fruit. Based on results of this research, it should be possible to use LFMR for monitoring the aggregation of proteins. This could improve processing efficiency and reduce waste. Similarly, the LFMR sensor could be used by processors during drying and mixing operations to rapidly (within 2 minutes) measure the MC of DDGS and Wet Distillers Grain to within approximately 1 percentage point of the actual moisture. These measurements should reduce the likelihood of over-drying and increase efficiency. LFMR is relatively insensitive to particle size distribution and results can easily be adjusted for sample temperature. These two factors cause difficulties with near infrared measurements, an alternative for rapid moisture measurement of DDGS. Category II: The test kit is being evaluated for use in measuring the susceptibility of shelled corn to invasion by storage fungi (FS). A means of measuring this susceptibility to invasion by storage fungi (FS) would allow storage facility managers to assess the likelihood that fungi will grow on their corn and therefore whether it can safely remain in storage. This is particularly important when there is insufficient capacity to ship or process all the corn that is in storage. FS testing could also be used to identify shelled corn that can be held in storage or shipped overseas to tropical climates with lower risk of fungal spoilage. Category III. The study of properties of shelled corn provides the industry with a quantitative assessment of the magnitudes of various kernel properties and the extent to which they vary. It therefore establishes "benchmark" values to which properties of newer hybrids can be compared. The industry is already aware of some of the relationships among kernel properties reported in this study. Those include the positive relationship between bulk and kernel density and between hardness and protein content. This study better documented those relationships. Differences in kernel hardness suggest that there will be noticeable differences in the energy required to grind different hybrids and in other traits such as breakage during handling (breakage susceptibility). The investigators are not aware of any other study that has reported a wide range in water absorption rate among hybrids or the high water absorption rate of some of the yellow and specialty hybrids. These differences could significantly affect batch production processes in which corn kernels are soaked in water prior to processing, such as Masa production or wet milling. It should take less time to process a batch that absorbs water more rapidly. Differences in starch content may affect uses such as corn fuel ethanol production or starch extraction by wet milling. Higher fiber content may be desirable if corn is to be used to produce foods with relatively high fiber.
Publications
- Moog, D.J.P., R.L. Stroshine, and L.M. Seitz. 2010. Fungal Susceptibility at Four Temperature-Moisture Combinations and Carbon Dioxide Kit Color Reader Evaluation. Cereal Chemistry 87(3):182-189.
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Progress 10/01/08 to 09/30/09
Outputs
OUTPUTS: PART I: Studies on handling properties of DDGS indicated that DDGS composition, which can be affected by the proportion of condensed solubles added to the wet cake during drying, can affect its handling properties. Addition of solubles increases the particle size of the dried product and its tendency to segregate. When no solubles are added during drying, there is less segregation during handling. The addition of solubles also increases the fat, sugar and glycerol content of the DDGS and decreases the percent fiber. In a comparison of the flow properties of DDGS at 10% and 16% moisture, the flow rate from the outlet of a small mass flow bin was lower at the higher moisture. These results, as well as the results of the storage properties (Part II) were presented at the Integrated Corn Ethanol Co-product Conference sponsored by Purdue and the Indiana State Department of Agriculture and held on Nov. 18, 2008. Results of tests on moisture measurement with a low field Magnetic Resonance sensor, summarized previously, were presented at the same conference as a poster. PART II: A major focus of this aspect of the project has been measurement of the fungal susceptibility of shelled corn using a relatively simple test kit that measures the carbon dioxide (CO2) produced by re-wetted samples. The CO2 concentration in jars containing the sample is determined from the color of an indicator gel affixed to a plastic paddle inserted into the jar. The results, reported previously, were summarized in a manuscript submitted for publication in the journal Cereal Chemistry. The reviewers asked for minor changes and those revisions are being made. As previously reported, the CO2 test kit was also used for investigations on DDGS re-wetted to moistures between 15% and 35%. Additional tests were conducted on samples of Wet Distiller's Grains (~55% moisture content) treated with fungal and yeast inhibitors. The fungal inhibitors were effective and once a certain level of addition was reached, little benefit was gained by further increasing the inhibitor application rate. Finally, laboratory tests on the physical and chemical properties of samples from over 100 corn hybrids were completed. The graduate student assigned to that project is currently making final changes to his Master's thesis. High amylose hybrids had relatively high water absorption rates while waxy corn hybrids had one of the slowest. There was a wide range in water absorption rate of yellow corn hybrids, from as low as waxy hybrids to higher than high amylose hybrids. The range for the white corn hybrids went from a low comparable to waxy corn to a high near the midpoint of the yellow corn hybrids. Scanning electron microscope studies revealed differences in microstructure that could help to explain these differences. Other properties measured included Stenvert hardness, kernel and bulk density, thousand kernel weight, germ to endosperm ratio, equilibrium moisture and NIR composition. III: Project personnel worked with Animal Sciences personnel on breaking strength of sow tibia and humerus and femur bones. The objectives was to determine the effect of exercise on bone strength. PARTICIPANTS: Individuals who worked on the project include: Stroshine, R.L., Ileleji, K.E., Garcia, A., Ramos, O., Day, Jr., D.C. The DDGS research was sponsored by Purdue University Agricultural Research Programs and the Indiana State Department of Agriculture. Magnetic Instrumentation, Inc. of Indianapolis Indiana provided the low field magnetic resonance sensor used for magnetic resonance studies. Woods End Research Laboratory, Inc. donated CO2 test kit materials used in the studies of fungal susceptibility of DDGS. Dr. Paul Armstrong at the Grain Marketing and Production Research Center (GMPRC) in Manhattan, Kansas collaborated on the measurements of corn hybrid properties. The Anderson Research Project and the USDA Grain Marketing and Production Research Center provided funding for the study on properties of corn hybrids. TARGET AUDIENCES: The target audience for the DDGS research is the Corn ethanol and the animal production industries. The fungal susceptibility measurements is the grain industry. The hybrid properties research is targeted towards the grain industry (particularly corn growers and processors and corn breeders.) PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
PART I: The studies on handling properties of DDGS indicate that the handling properties of DDGS can be improved by reducing or eliminating the addition of condensed solubles to the wet cake during drying. The "extra" condensed solubles could then be added when higher energy is desirable and handling is not a concern. PART II: Results of the CO2 tests on DDGS indicated that composition affects the moisture content at which fungi and yeast become active in DDGS. For example, it would be possible to hold DDGS for several months at 18% moisture if it can be cooled and kept at 55 F. When modified dried wet distillers grains (55% m.c.) is marketed, fungal and mold growth can be effectively inhibited for several days by the addition of inhibitors. Furthermore, there is apparently a certain rate at which the maximum protection is achieved. Beyond that rate of addition, no additional protection is achieved. The study of properties of shelled corn hybrids established the typical range of these properties in yellow corn, white corn and specialty hybrids currently grown in the Midwest. These differences should be of interest to processors. For example, the difference in water absorption properties among the hybrids could be important in wet milling and alkaline processing. By using hybrids that absorb water more rapidly the rate of processing of corn could be increased. The observed differences in equilibrium moisture content among the hybrids would affect the performance of aeration systems that are designed to bring the moisture to a fixed value by only allowing fans to operate when air relative humidity falls within a certain range. As noted in the 2008 report, corn breeders should be able to use results of hybrid properties to develop new hybrids with desirable traits
Publications
- Clementson, C.L., Ileleji, K.E., and Stroshine, R.L. (2009) Particle segregation within a pile of bulk dried distillers grains with soluble (DDGS) formed by gravity-driven discharge and variability of nutrient content, Cereal Chemistry 86(3):267-273.
- Schenck, E.L., McMunn, K.A., Rosenstein, D.S., Stroshine, R.L., Nielsen, B.D., Richert, B.T., Marchant-Forde, J.N. , and Lay Jr., D.C. (2008). Exercising stall-housed gestating gilts: Effects on lameness, the musculo-skeletal system, production, and behavior, Journal of Animal Science 86:3166-3180.
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Progress 10/01/07 to 09/30/08
Outputs
OUTPUTS: PART I: Results of tests on use of Low Field Magnetic Resonance (LFMR) for detecting water core and internal browning in apples were published. LFMR tests were conducted on DDGS (Dried Distillers Grains with Solubles) to determine whether it could be used for rapid measurement of DDGS moisture content. The best model of the spin-spin (T2) relaxation curve of the DDGS was a 3-term exponential. An equation was developed using one of the model parameters to predict moisture contents from the T2 measurements. New samples of the DDGS were prepared by rewetting it to moistures between 12 and 30%. A regression equation for predicted (LFMR) moisture content versus moisture content determined using the recommended oven technique had a slope of 1.0015. The r^2 for the regression was 0.9967. Preliminary tests were also conducted on ground corn cobs and ground switchgrass rewetted to moistures between 10 and 35%. When the samples were tested with the LFMR sensor, the low density of these two materials made it more difficult to obtain a strong signal. Therefore, the samples were interrogated multiple times and the signals were averaged. There was a linear relationship between the moisture content and the peak amplitude of the relaxation signals obtained from corn cobs and the switchgrass (r^2 = 0.991 and 0.988, respectively). Additional tests and analyses are needed to identify the best model of the T2 relaxation signal and the best method of predicting moisture content from that signal. PART II: A major focus of this project has been measurement of the fungal susceptibility of shelled corn using a relatively simple test kit that measures the carbon dioxide (CO2) produced by re-wetted samples. The CO2 concentration in jars containing the sample is determined from the color of an indicator gel that is affixed to a plastic paddle inserted into the jar. Tests were conducted on samples rewetted to either 16% or 21% mc. The color of the gel was determined using a recently developed digital color reader, a device that consistently and accurately measures the color of the paddles. A manuscript summarizing the results will be submitted to a journal by January of 2009. Over the past 18 months the CO2 kit has also been used for measurement of fungal growth in DDGS, a byproduct of corn ethanol production. When samples were re-wetted to moistures between 15% and 35%, there was a noticeable increase in microbial activity at or above 25% moisture. In another study the physical and chemical properties of samples of shelled corn from 100 corn hybrids is being determined. Properties measured include bulk and kernel density, pericarp thickness, kernel size and shape, composition (by NIR), equilibrium moisture content, and water absorption rate. Results are being analyzed to determine averages and ranges as well as correlations among the various properties. PART III: Results of previous research on tensile properties of guinea pig nerves were summarized in a manuscript that is being prepared for submission to a journal. PARTICIPANTS: Dr. Larry Seitz, recently retired from the Grain Marketing and Production Research Center (GMPRC) in Manhattan, Kansas collaborated on the research on shelled corn fungal susceptibility measurement. Dr. Paul Armstrong currently at the USDA GMPRC, collaborated on the measurements of corn hybrid properties. Magnetic Instrumentation, Inc. of Indianapolis Indiana provided the low field magnetic resonance sensor used for magnetic resonance studies. Funding for the DDGS studies was provided by both Purdue University and the Indiana Department of Agriculture. The research on fungal susceptibility testing was supported by the Anderson Research Project fund administered through NC-213. Woods End Research Laboratory, Inc. provided additional funding and donated CO2 test kit materials used in the study. The Anderson Research Project and the USDA Grain Marketing and Production Research Center provided funding for the study on properties of corn hybrids. TARGET AUDIENCES: The target audience for the fungal susceptibility measurements is the grain industry and (for DDGS) the animal industry. The hybrid properties research is targeted towards the grain industry (particularly corn growers and processors and corn breeders). PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.
Impacts
PART I: Tests indicated that LFMR sensor could be used by processors during drying and mixing operations to rapidly (within 2 minutes) measure the moisture content of DDGS and Wet Distillers Grain to within approximately 1 percentage point of the actual moisture. LFMR is relatively insensitive to particle size distribution and results can easily be adjusted for sample temperature. These two factors cause difficulties with Near Infrared measurements, an alternative for rapid moisture measurement of DDGS. PART II: Storage facility managers could use the CO2 test kit fungal susceptibility measurements to assess the likelihood that fungi will grow on their corn and therefore whether it can safely remain in storage. It could also be used to test shelled corn to be shipped to tropical climates where storage conditions are more difficult. Results of DDGS mold growth studies should provide insight into factors affecting mold growth in DDGS at higher than normal moistures. This will give processors, handlers and users a better understanding of how to maintain its quality when it is stored prior to utilization. The study of properties of shelled corn hybrids will establish the typical range of these properties in hybrids currently grown in the Midwest. This will help processors identify hybrids that can be processed more efficiently. Corn breeders may also be able to use it to develop new hybrids with desirable traits. PART III: A better understanding of the mechanical properties of peripheral nerves will aid in the improvement of surgical techniques for repairing nerves damaged by trauma.
Publications
- Cho, B.-K., W. Chayaprasert, and R.L. Stroshine. 2008. Effects of internal browning and watercore on low field (5.4 MHz) proton magnetic resonance measurements of T2 values of whole apples. Postharvest Biology and Technology 47(1):81-89.
- Moog, D.J.P., R.L. Stroshine, and L.M. Seitz. 2008. Relationship of Shelled Corn Fungal susceptibility to carbon dioxide evolution and kernel attributes. Cereal Chemistry 85(1):19-26.
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Progress 10/01/06 to 09/30/07
Outputs
OUTPUTS: PART I: Results of H-MR CPMG-T2 tests conducted on WHOLE APPLES using a low-field (5.35 MHz) H-MR sensor were published. The tests revealed that changes in the T2 relaxation signals can indicate the presence and severity of internal browning and the presence of watercore. A manuscript summarizing the results of T2 tests on whole CANNING TOMATOES at maturity levels ranging from mature green to dark red was edited and prepared for submission to a journal. The T2 relaxation signals of Tomatoes were best described by a two-term exponential model. Although tomato maturity affected the values of the model parameters, color measurements gave a better correlation with firmness than did changes in the T2 signal (R2 = 0.64 for color versus r2 = 0.47 for changes in T2). However, physical damage to tomatoes caused changes in their T2 signal and the severity of the damage affected the extent of the change. A Maran Ultra 15 MHz MR sensor was used for investigations of protein denaturation
and aggregation. Results of the tests were published. In tests on Beta Lactoglobulin, a MILK PROTEIN, protein aggregation rather than protein denaturation was responsible for observed changes in T2 caused by heating above the denaturation temperature. PART II: Samples of shelled corn with a wide range of storage history and quality were rewetted to 21% mc and evaluated for susceptibility to fungal invasion using a CO2 test kit. The CO2 test samples were placed in sealed glass jars and incubated at 24C for up to 3 days. CO2 production by the sample was determined from the change in color of an indicator solution placed in the jar and was used to determine the CO2 produced by the sample. The test kit results were consistent with expectations of fungal susceptibility based on known storage history. The increase in ergosterol content, before versus after incubation, was used as an independent measure of fungal growth in the samples. It was well correlated with the CO2 kit measurements of
fungal activity in the samples (r2 = 0.46 to 0.60, P = 0.001). Additional tests were conducted using a recently developed digital color reader, a device that gives a consistent and precise determination of color number. Test results will be summarized in a second paper that is currently being prepared for submission to a journal. Finally, this past summer the test kit was used for preliminary tests of fungal growth in DDGS, a byproduct of corn ethanol production, incubated at moisture contents between 17.5 and 35% wet basis. PART III: Tensile tests were conducted on strips (5 mm wide and 35 mm long) of Small Intestine Submcosa (SIS) joined in a lap shear configuration (10 mm overlap) using mussel adhesive protein (MAP). Tests were conducted with SIS because it is being used with increasing frequency in surgical repair of tissues. Although their effectiveness varied, the addition of oxidizing agents promoted curing of the MAP. Results of the study were recently published.
PARTICIPANTS: MAFMA, the Midwest Advanced Food Manufacturing Alliance, provided funding for the canning tomato quality research. Magnetic Instrumentation, Inc. of Indianapolis Indiana provided provided both in-kind and cash contributions as matching funding for the tomato quality research. The research on fungal susceptibility testing was supported by an Anderson Research Project funding administered through NC-213. Woods End Research Laboratory, Inc. provided additional funding and donated CO2 test kit materials used in the study. Cook Biotech of West Lafayette, Indiana provided the Small Intestine Submucosa (SIS) used for the lap shear testing of the Mussel Adhesive Protein.
TARGET AUDIENCES: Food processors and grain storage managers
Impacts
PART I: Tests indicated that it may be possible to use the low field MR (LFMR) T2 relaxation curves of apples to ascertain the presence and severity of internal browning and watercore in the apples. Results for canning tomatoes indicated that LFMR T2 values may be useful for assessing physical damage to the tomatoes. If improvements can be made to the LFMR that will enable it to sort at a faster rate it may be feasible to use it for monitoring fruits and vegetables for quality traits that cause changes in the distribution of water within the plant tissue being tested. It may also be possible to use LFMR for monitoring the aggregation of proteins during processing operations thereby improving efficiency and reducing waste. PART II: The test kit is being evaluated for use in measuring the susceptibility of shelled corn to invasion by storage fungi (FS). Storage facility managers could use the kit to assess the likelihood that fungi will grow on their corn and therefore
whether it can safely remain in storage. This is particularly important when there is insufficient rail and barge capacity to quickly transport the corn to processing and export facilities. FS testing could be used on shelled corn that must be held in storage or is to be shipped overseas. Publication of the results of the CO2 kit study will serve as a basis for establishing its usefulness and promoting its commercialization.. PART III: A biocompatible adhesive can be used for joining tissues where conventional surgical techniques such as sutures are difficult to use. An adhesive protein extracted from marine mussels (MAP) can attain good bond strengths using proper curing agents and techniques. However, the MAP cures slowly making it difficult for it to attain sufficient bond strength in the moist environment found in living tissues. Additional research is being planned for the purpose of identifying strategies for overcoming these limitations.
Publications
- Indrawati, Linda, R.L. Stroshine, and G. Narsimhan. 2007. Low-field NMR: A tool for studying protein aggregation. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture 87:2207-2216.
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Progress 10/01/05 to 09/30/06
Outputs
PART I: H-MR CPMG-T2 tests were conducted on WHOLE APPLES using a low-field (5.35 MHz) H-MR sensor and a three term exponential model was fit to their T2 relaxation signals. Several model parameters varied in proportion to the severity of internal browning and were also affected by the presence of watercore. T2 tests were also conducted on whole CANNING TOMATOES at maturity levels ranging from mature green to dark red. The T2 relaxation signals were best described by a two-term exponential model and the model parameters varied with tomato ripeness. For tomatoes with physical damage, some of the model parameters varied in proportion to the extent of damage. A Maran Ultra 15 MHz MR sensor was used to conduct investigations of powder solubility and protein denaturation and aggregation. The tests with POWDERS indicated that, for powders that require several minutes or more to thoroughly hydrate when added to water, sequential T2 measurements can be used for monitoring
changes in solubility during mixing. Tests on Beta Lactoglobulin, a MILK PROTEIN, revealed that protein aggregation rather than protein denaturation was responsible for observed changes in T2 caused by heating above the denaturation temperature. PART II: Over 90 samples of shelled corn with a wide range of storage history and quality have been evaluated for susceptibility to fungal invasion using a CO2 test kit. Additional measurements conducted on the samples were difference in ppm ergosterol before and after rewetting and incubation, NIR reflectance (830 to 2500 nm), percent kernel infection by plating on agar, electrolyte leakage, and kernel damage. The CO2 test samples were re-wetted to 21% moisture, placed in a sealed glass jar and incubated at 24C. After either 2 or 3 days of incubation, when the primary source of CO2 was fungal growth, a small paddle containing a color indicator was inserted. The paddle changes color as the percent CO2 increases and a color number can be
determined by comparing the paddle color to colors on a color card. Tests were also conducted using a recently developed digital color reader that gives a more consistent and precise determination of color number. The test kit results have been consistent with expectations of fungal susceptibility based on known storage history. Correlations for linear regressions of test kit color numbers and the other measurements were determined. There were good correlations with the increase in ergosterol (ppm) during incubation. The ppm ergosterol and percent kernel infection were also correlated. NIR and FTIR were able to predict ppm ergosterol with a standard error of 1.2 to 1.3 ppm. PART III: Tensile tests were conducted on strips of Small Intestine Submcosa (SIS) joined in a lap shear configuration using mussel adhesive protein (MAP). The lap shear joint was formed using strips of SIS that were 5 mm wide and 35 mm long joined so that the ends overlapped by 10 mm. Tests were conducted with SIS
because it is being used with increasing frequency in surgical repair of tissues. Various oxidizing agents were added to the MAP joint to promote curing. Several of these curing agents noticeably strengthened the bonds.
Impacts
PART I: Tests indicate that a detailed analysis of the low field MR (LFMR) T2 relaxation curves of apples could indicate the presence and severity of internal browning and watercore. Results for canning tomatoes indicated that LFMR may be able to detect physical damage. If the LFMR sensor can be adapted for use in sorting lines or grading stations, it may be feasible to use it for monitoring for such quality traits. This may be possible if improvements can be made to enable faster sorting rates. PART II: A means of measuring the susceptibility of shelled corn to invasion by storage fungi (FS) would allow storage facility managers to assess the likelihood that fungi will grow on their corn and therefore whether it can safely remain in storage. This is particularly important when there is insufficient rail and barge capacity to quickly transport the corn to processing and export facilities. FS testing could be used on shelled corn that must be held in storage or is to
be shipped overseas. Test kit FS measurements require 48 to 72 hrs to complete. More rapid tests that could be used for sample screening are also being evaluated. PART III: A biocompatible adhesive can be used for joining tissues where conventional surgical techniques such as sutures are difficult to use. An adhesive protein extracted from marine mussels (MAP) can attain good bond strengths using proper curing agents and techniques. Additional research is being conducted with the objective of developing a technique for using MAP to form strong bonds in the moist conditions found in the human body.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 10/01/04 to 09/30/05
Outputs
PART I: H-MR CPMG-T2 tests were conducted on apples as they are moved through the magnet of a low-field (5.35 MHz) H-MR sensor at speeds from 0 to 250 mm/s. The T2 relaxation signals of healthy (H) apples and apples with internal browning (IB) were distinctly different. Classification error (IB versus H) was 12% or less at a conveyor speed of 50 mm/s but at faster conveyor speeds it was as high as 38%. Precise and consistent positioning of the sample at the time the CPMG test is initiated are essential for minimizing classification errors. Results suggest that it would be possible to improve performance at higher speeds by modifying the magnet to provide greater pre-magnetization of the apples. PART II: Over 100 samples of shelled corn with a wide range of storage history and quality are being evaluated for storability (defined as the resistance of the shelled corn to invasion by storage fungi). Tests being conducted include ppm ergosterol, NIR reflectance (830 to
2500 nm), percent kernel infection by plating, electrolyte leakage, and kernel damage. The samples are also re-wetted to 21% moisture and placed in a sealed glass jar. A small paddle containing a color indicator is inserted. It changes color as the percent carbon dioxide (CO2) in the air increases. After 2 days of incubation, the primary source of CO2 is fungal activity. These test kit results have been consistent with expectations of storability based on known storage history. The color indicator readings are correlated with the increase (ppm) in ergosterol during incubation. The ppm ergosterol and percent kernel infection are also correlated. For the first 55 samples tested, NIR and FTIR were able to predict ppm ergosterol with a standard error of .05 to 1.33 ppm. PART III: The adhesive strengths of mussel adhesive extract (MAE) were compared to the strength of ethyl cyanoacrylate (EAN) using tensile tests on samples consisting of two 5 mm wide strips of Small Intestine Submucosa
(SIS) joined so that the ends overlapped by 10 mm. Tests were conducted with SIS because it is being used with increasing frequency in surgical repair of tissues. Various oxidizing agents were added to the MAE to promote curing. The EAN, which is not safe or practical for use as a surgical adhesive, gave the stronger bond. However, a relatively strong bond could be achieved with MAE, providing the proper curing agent and curing technique were used. In 2003, tests were conducted on excised Guinea pig sciatic nerves to determine the effects of stretching on their compound action potential, which is a measure of ability to conduct nerve impulses. The results of these tests were summarized in a Ph.D. thesis.
Impacts
PART I: The goal of the MR research is to adapt the sensor for rapid and nondestructive measurement of fruit and vegetable quality or maturity. On-line magnetic resonance detection of internal browning or water core in apples could be used in a packing facility for removing defective fruit. This would improve product quality, increase customer satisfaction, and reduce losses. Our results suggest this may be possible if improvements can be made that permit faster sorting rates. PART II: A means of measuring shelled corn storability would allow managers of storage facilities to assess the likelihood that mold will grow in their corn and therefore whether it can safely remain in storage. Storability testing could be used on shelled corn being shipped overseas to help ensure that the corn arrives in good condition and that its quality is maintained during subsequent storage. Storability measurement with the test kit requires 48 to 72 hrs. Tests that can be completed in 15
minutes or less are also being evaluated. These tests could be used to screen samples for subsequent test kit evaluation. PART III: A biocompatible adhesive can be used for joining tissues where conventional surgical techniques such as sutures are difficult to use. The adhesive extracted from marine mussels can attain good bond strengths using proper curing agents and techniques. Additional research is being conducted to further refine both the techniques for using the curing agents and the curing techniques. This should enable formation of strong bonds in the moist conditions found in the human body.
Publications
- Chayaprasert, W. and R.L. Stroshine 2005. Rapid Sensing of Internal Browning in Whole Apples using a Low-Cost, Low-field Proton Magnetic Resonance Sensor. Postharvest Biology and Technology 36:291-301.
- Ninan, L. 2003. Study of Nerve Failure and the Repair of Nerves using Synthetic and Biological Polymers. Ph.D. Thesis, Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN.
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Progress 10/01/03 to 09/30/04
Outputs
PART I: H-MR CPMG-T2 tests were conducted on apples as they are moved through the magnet of a low-field (5.35 MHz) H-MR sensor at speeds from 0 to 250 mm/s. The T2 relaxation signals of healthy (H) apples and apples with internal browning (IB) were distinctly different. The duration of the signal decreased as the conveyor speed increased. Classification error (IB versus H) was 12% or less at a conveyor speed of 50 mm/s but at faster conveyor speeds it was as high as 38%. Additional experiments demonstrated that precise and consistent positioning of the sample at the time of initiation of the CPMG test was essential for keeping classification errors as low as possible. Test results were summarized in a manuscript that was submitted to a journal. PART II: Fifty-five samples of shelled corn with a wide range of storage history and quality have been evaluated for storability (defined as the resistance of the shelled corn to invasion by storage fungi). The tests conducted
included ppm ergosterol, NIR reflectance (range 830 to 2500 nm), percent kernel infection by plating, electrolyte leakage, and kernel damage. The samples were also re-wetted to 21% moisture and evaluated with a simple test kit that uses a color indicator that changes color with an increase in the percent carbon dioxide (CO2) in the air in a sealed glass jar. After 2 days of incubation, the primary source of CO2 is fungal activity. Test kit results were consistent with expectations of storability based on known storage history. The color indicator readings were highly correlated (0.01 level) with the increase (ppm) in ergosterol during incubation (0.38 < r2 < 0.62). The correlation between ppm ergosterol and percent kernel infection (r2=0.58) was highly significant (0.01 level). NIR and FTIR were able to predict ppm ergosterol with a standard error of .05 to 1.33 ppm. PART III: The adhesive strengths of mussel adhesive extract (MAE) and ethyl (EAN), butryl (BAN), and octal (OAN)
cyanoacrylates were compared using tensile tests on samples consisting of two 5 mm wide strips of Small Intestine Submucosa (SIS) joined so that the ends overlapped by 10 mm. No curing agent was used for the MAE. Tests were conducted with SIS because it is being used with increasing frequency in surgical repair of tissues. Samples were cured in air at laboratory temperature and relative humidity for 1 hour. The EAN, which is not safe or practical for use as a surgical adhesive, gave the strongest bond. MAE was about half as strong as EAN, about 2.1 times stronger than OAN and 4.2 times stronger than BAN. Tests were also conducted on excised Guinea pig sciatic nerves to determine the effects of stretching the nerves on their compound action potential, which is a measure of ability to conduct nerve impulses. The results of these tests were summarized in a Ph.D. thesis. Papers using data from the thesis are being prepared for publication
Impacts
PART I: This goal of the MR research is to adapt the sensor for rapid, and in most cases nondestructive, measurement of fruit and vegetable quality, maturity, or internal damage. On-line magnetic resonance detection of internal browning or water core in apples could be used in a packing facility for removing defective fruit. This would improve product quality, increase customer satisfaction, and reduce losses. The conveyor tests suggest that this may be possible if improvements can be made that will permit faster sorting rates. PART II: A means of measuring shelled corn storability would allow managers of storage facilities to assess the likelihood that mold will grow in their stored corn and therefore whether it can remain in storage. Storability testing could be used on shelled corn being shipped overseas to help ensure that the corn arrives in good condition and that its quality will not rapidly decline during subsequent storage. Storability measurement with the
test kit requires 48 to 72 hours. Tests that can be completed in 15 minutes or less are also being evaluated. These tests could be used to screen samples for subsequent test kit evaluation. PART III: A biocompatible adhesive can be used for joining tissues where conventional surgical techniques such as sutures are difficult to use. The adhesive extracted from marine mussels can attain good bond strengths after an hour of curing at laboratory conditions. Additional research is being conducted to identify curing techniques that will enable more rapid curing in the moist conditions found in the human body.
Publications
- Moog, Dale J.P., Richard L. Stroshine, Larry M. Seitz, Marvin R. Paulsen, and Charles P. Woloshuk. 2004. Storability Measurement of Shelled Corn. Paper presented at the International Quality Grains Conference, Indianapolis, Indiana, July 19-22, 2004. Sponsored by NC-213, Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center, Wooster, Ohio
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Progress 10/01/02 to 09/30/03
Outputs
A conveyor system was developed and tested that allows H-MR T2 tests to be conducted on fruits and vegetables as they are moved through the magnet of a low-field (5.35 MHz) H-MR sensor at speeds from 0 to 250 mm/s. At 0 mm/s, the T2 curves of healthy apples and apples with internal browning were distinctly different. In tests conducted on 16 apples (9 healthy, 7 with internal browning), the classification error was 12.5% at 0 mm/s and reached a maximum of 31 percent as conveyor speed was increased. Effects of slight misalignment (6 mm) and slight variations (5 mm/s) in conveyor speed are also being evaluated. Samples of shelled corn with a wide range of storage history and quality are being evaluated for storability using several different tests. Storability is defined as the resistance of the shelled corn to invasion by storage fungi. The tests being conducted include ppm ergosterol, percent kernel infection by plating, electrolyte leakage, and kernel damage. NIR
tests are also being conducted on the samples to determine whether there are differences in NIR spectra that can be related to storability. In addition, the samples are being re-wetted to 21% moisture and evaluated using a test kit that has been adapted for measurement of carbon dioxide (CO2) release by the samples. After 2 to 3 days of incubation, the primary source of CO2 release is fungal activity. Results are being analyzed to determine correlations among measurements and to determine which tests give the best indication of the storability of the samples. The adhesive strengths of fibrin and mussel adhesive extract (MAE) were compared using tensile tests on sets of two strips of porcine skin joined end to end. No curing agent was used for the MAE. Samples were cured for 4 to 36 hours under various conditions including an elevated temperature (37C) and 80% RH. The MAE and fibrin had similar bond strengths for cure times between 12 and 24 hours and joint strengths at 24 hours were
of the order of 1 MPa. Results of this preliminary study were published and additional studies were conducted using Small Intestine Submucosa (SIS), a material being used with increasing frequency in surgical repair of tissues. These results are being summarized and readied for publication. In addition, tests were conducted on excised Guinea pig sciatic nerves to determine the effects of stretching the nerves on their functionality (their compound action potential, which is a measure of ability to conduct nerve impulses). Results of these tests are also being summarized for publication.
Impacts
The goal of the H-MR sensor work is to adapt the sensor to on-line detection of internal browning and similar defects in apples and other fruits or vegetables. Lots containing unacceptable levels of internal defects could be sorted and defective fruit removed. Losses would be reduced and fruit quality improved leading to greater customer satisfaction and increased competitiveness in global markets. A means of measuring shelled corn storability would allow managers of grain storage facilities to assess the likelihood that storage mold will grow in their stored corn. Storability testing could be used on lots of corn being shipped overseas that will be exposed to tropical or sub-tropical climates. Several tests are being evaluated, including an adaptation of a commercial test kit used for testing compost. The kit can give storability values in 48 to 72 hours. Several tests that could be conducted in 15 minutes are also being evaluated. Several of these tests could be
used to screen samples in situations where there is insufficient time to conduct the 3-day CO2 kit test. A biocompatible adhesive can be used for joining tissues where conventional surgical techniques such as sutures are difficult or impossible to use. Tests with an adhesive extracted from marine mussels indicated that it can achieve acceptable bond strengths, but that these strengths are not yet attainable under the extremely moist conditions encountered in surgery. Additional research is being conducted to identify curing agents or techniques that will enable the adhesive to be used in these moist environments.
Publications
- Ninan, L., J. Monahan, R.L. Stroshine, J.J. Wilker, and R. Shi. 2003. Adhesive Strength of Marine Mussel Extracts on Porcine Skin. Biomaterials 24:4091-4099.
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Progress 10/01/01 to 09/30/02
Outputs
Relaxation curves from low field (5.35 MHz) proton magnetic resonance (H-MR) CPMG T2 tests on cheese analog were fit to both a three-term exponential model and a stretched exponential model and the accuracy of the models was compared. These results were summarized and submitted to a journal for publication. Effects of moisture and fat contents and addition of salt on the T2 decay curves of processed cheese products (46 to 62% m.c.) were determined. Results were presented as a poster at the annual meeting of the Institute of Food Technologists. H-MR T2 tests were also conducted on whole apples that were healthy or that had internal damage (watercore or internal browning). The T2 decay curves were fit to a three-term exponential model. Preliminary analyses indicated that differences in model parameters were correlated with the presence of internal defects. Samples of re-wetted shelled corn and wheat were tested using the storability test kit. (See the 2001 annual report
for a brief description of the kit.) The fact that results on re-tested samples of shelled corn were very similar to results from the previous year indicates that the test gives consistent results. Six samples of wheat were collected from different locations. The storabilities of five of the six samples were quite similar. Additional studies are needed to determine the optimum conditions for performing the test with wheat (temperature, moisture content) that give the greatest sensitivity to differences in storability. The adhesive strength of fibrin and mussel adhesive extract (MAE) were compared using tensile tests on sets of two strips of porcine skin joined end to end. No curing agent was used for the MAE. Samples were cured at either 25C and 40% relative humidity (RH) or 37C and 80% RH for 4 to 36 hours. The MAE and fibrin had similar bond strengths for cure times between 12 and 24 hours. For the 37C and 80% RH curing condition joint strengths at 24 hours were of the order of 1
MPa. Results of the study were summarized and submitted for publication.
Impacts
During the manufacture of cheese, moisture control is difficult and on-line sensing would allow processors to improve production efficiency. Results of these studies indicate that on line MR sensing of process cheese moisture content should be possible if salt content and pH can be held relatively constant and moisture constrained within a range of approximately 7%. A commercial test kit currently used for testing compost and soil is being adapted for use in corn and wheat storability measurements. The kit can give storability values within 48 to 72 hours of rewetting. Use of the kit would permit utilization, prior to deterioration, of grain that is likely to mold. A biocompatible adhesive can be used for joining tissues in situations where conventional surgical techniques such as sutures are difficult or impossible to use. Tests with an adhesive extracted from marine mussels indicated that, under suitable curing conditions, it can achieve bond strengths comparable to
those achieved with fibrin, one of the more common surgical adhesives currently in use. However, additional research is needed to identify a curing agent that will accelerate the rate of curing and achieve curing under physiological conditions (extremely moist environments).
Publications
- Budiman, M., R. Stroshine, S. Nielsen, and O. Campanella. 2002.Predicting moisture content of process cheese utilizing stretched and multi-exponential models of the magnetic resonance T2 decay curve. Abstract 91C-35, Institute of Food Technologists 2002 Annual Meeting, June 15-19, 2002. Anaheim, California.
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Progress 10/01/00 to 09/30/01
Outputs
CPMG spin-spin (T2) relaxation tests were conducted on process cheese and on cheese analog using a low field (5.35 MHz) proton magnetic resonance (H-MR) sensor. T2 relaxation curves were fit to both a three-term exponential model and a stretched exponential model. Stress relaxation tests were conducted on cylindrical samples of cheese analog. Regression analyses were used to compare model parameters with moisture content (MC), ratio of moisture to non-fat solid matter (M/S), and rheological model parameters from the analog cheese stress relaxation tests. Several parameters from the rheological model were well correlated (r2 > 0.71) with parameters of the two-term exponential model. Parameters of the three-term exponential and stretched exponential model were well correlated (r2 > 0.92) with the M/S of cheese analogs. Effects of fat content and addition of salt on the T2 decay curves were determined. In addition to the studies on cheese, H-MR tests were conducted on 27
whole onions with internal bacterial damage. The T2 curves of 7 out of the 9 onions with damage were noticeably different from the T2 curves of 18 healthy onions. Storability measurements were conducted on shelled corn using a test kit currently being used to measure soil microbial activity and compost maturity. The sample is placed in a container along with a color indicator that changes color in response to differences in carbon dioxide concentration. Shelled corn samples were rewetted to approximately 21% moisture and incubated in sealed containers at room temperature. Within 48 to 72 hours after rewetting the kits could detect differences in the carbon dioxide production that were related to differences mold growth in the samples. A separate aspect of this research is evaluation and modeling of biomaterials as they relate to medical devices and procedures. Effort related to this objective has been focused on testing of surgical adhesives. During the summer of 2001, tensile tests
were initiated on fibrin and cyanoacrylate, two adhesives used in surgical applications. Their strength as a function of cure time is being determined using samples of guinea pig skin. The same techniques will be used to evaluate other materials that have potential for use as a surgical adhesive.
Impacts
Food processors and the fruit and vegetable industry would benefit from on-line sensing of the quality of their products. During the manufacture of process cheese, moisture control is difficult and on-line sensing would allow processors to improve production efficiency. Results of this project indicate that rapid magnetic resonance sensing of process cheese moisture content should be possible if appropriate signal analysis techniques are used. In addition, tests on onions with internal bacterial damage indicated that it may be possible to use proton magnetic resonance to sort damaged onions from healthy onions. Measurement of the storability of shelled corn (susceptibility to invasion by storage fungi) would allow better management of stored corn. Shelled corn that is highly susceptible to invasion by storage fungi could be utilized before its condition deteriorates. Tests indicated that a commercial test kit currently used to evaluate compost and soil could be
adapted for use in corn storability measurements. Tests could be completed in 48 to 72 hours.
Publications
- Budiman, M., R.L. Stroshine, and O.H. Campanella. 2000. Stress Relaxation and Low Field Proton Magnetic Resonance Studies of Cheese Analog. Journal of Texture Studies 31:477-498.
- Budiman, M., R.L. Stroshine, O.H. Campanella, P. Cornillon, S.S. Nielsen and S. Nielsen. 2001. Modeling of Low-Field Proton Magnetic Resonance T2 Decay Curves for the Purpose of Moisture and Fat Content Measurement of Cheese Analog. Paper 01-6127. ASAE, St. Joseph, MI.
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