NC213: Marketing and Delivery of Quality Grains and BioProcess Coproducts

(Multistate Research Project)

Status: Active

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SAES-422 Reports

Annual/Termination Reports:

[03/13/2024] [03/21/2025]

Date of Annual Report: 03/13/2024

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 02/27/2024 - 02/28/2024
Period the Report Covers: 10/01/2022 - 09/30/2023

Participants

Brief Summary of Minutes

NC-213 Annual Business Meeting Minutes

Kansas City Missouri

Marriott Kansas City Downtown

February 28, 2024

Attendance:

George Annor

Griffiths Atungulu

Daniel Brabec

Mark Casada

Devisree Chukkapalli

Clairmont Clementson

Chuck Hill

Noah Hoag

Yan Jiang

Rob LaFollette

Tanner Liba

Kaushik Luthra

Janie Moore

Gretchen Mosher

Samuel Olaoni

Evans Owusu

Marvin Petingco

Lester Pordesimo

Mahfuzur Rahman

Kent Rausch

Devin Rose

Deanna Scheff

Kaliramesh Siliveru

Deandrae Smith

Mike Tubleson

Sahar Yousefi

Erin Kealey

Wu Jiaying

Kaushlendra Tingi (USDA)

Meeting began at 12:45pm CST

Updates

Janie Moore read updates from the NC-213 Administrative Advisor/Coordinator

NC-213 Annual Meeting 2025

Janie Moore proposed site options for 2025

Unanimous vote for Wheat Quality Council in Olathe, Kansas for 2025

Janie proposed that we identify a location for 2026 as well and consider having a set rotation for our annual meetings.

Deanna offered to have 2026 at K-State/USDA and Griffiths also offered to have 2026 at U of Arkansas.

Vote of the station representatives selected U of Arkansas for the 2026 meeting.

While there was some consensus about where we will host the meetings from year to year, we left it open for change.

Chuck Hill pointed out that we will need to keep GEAPS and Wheat Quality Council back to back, then go to a Land Grant

Suggested Meeting Schedule:

2025 – Wheat Quality Council

2026 – Univ of Arkansas

2027 – GEAPS

2028 – Wheat Quality Council

2029 – K-State/USDA

Appointment of Secretary

George Annor was the nominee for the Secretary and approved by the voting members.

Kaliramesh Siliveru did express interest in the position for the coming year.

Awards were presented before the business meeting by Devin Rose

Salah Issa – Early in Career

Griffiths Atungulu – Cereals and Oilseeds Award of Excellence

Jiaying Wu from Illinois - Student Poster Competition

While the virtual poster session went well, there are some improvements that could be made if we decide to try it again.

Have students record themselves presenting their work and have those videos available before the meeting.

Go back to the “people’s choice” and let everyone have an opportunity to vote on the posters (at Purdue we used those tokens and the students with the most tokens won, this year we gave industry reps a rubric to score and then tallied points)

Meeting adjourned.

Accomplishments

NC-213 2023 Accomplishments Objective 1: To measure, model, and assess factors which influence quality and safety attributes in the post-harvest usage, drying, handling and distribution of cereal grains and oilseeds.   NC213 researchers across multiple universities and USDA facilities have been conducting research studies across the post-harvest supply chain. Studies include alternative uses for naturally occurring DON-contaminated grain, mycotoxin prevalence in Iowa corn, developing support tools and guides for post-harvest technology uses, improvements on airflow in grain ground piles, and mitigation techniques for pathogens in wheat. NC213 researchers have published >30 peer review publications, developed 3 online dashboards, and presented at national and international conferences.   Selected highlights from individual research stations.   Researchers at Iowa State University have studied and developed decision support tools to guide assessments and adoption of post-harvest technologies to ensure food security. The Rockefeller Foundation YieldWise Initiative (YWI) was used as a case study to develop the first-generation support tool to compare post-harvest losses associated with different technologies, along with surveys from 600 participants from Kenya, Tanzania, and Nigeria.   Research is underway at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln to investigate mitigation strategies to reduce the natural microbial load of hard red winter wheat. This research addresses the food safety concerns of microbial contamination in wheat flour and is a potential novel treatment to reduce microbial loads.   Researchers at Texas A&M studied naturally contaminated maize samples with aflatoxin, to obtain spectral data that was processed and analyzed using a machine learning method. The findings and implications from the study indicate the potential use of a compact and automated Raman system, coupled with machine learning methods would be a more rapid and less expensive analytical tool for hazardous substances at on-site field processing locations.   Researchers at the USDA – ARS evaluated a handheld NIR instrument compared to a benchtop NIR for predicting protein content in sorghum grain. The handheld NIR would offer growers and producers a more rapid prediction of sorghum grain composition   Objective 2: To improve management and operational systems to increase efficiency, retain quality, enhance values and reserve food safety in the farm-to-user supply chain.   NC213 researchers from across the station locations have been pursuing research and extension efforts on systems approaches for the post-harvest supply chain. NC213 researchers have produced a combined, 41 peer review publications under this objective. The University of Arkansas held their annual industry alliance meeting to share research findings with stakeholders, academics, and sponsors of the rice processing program. Advances in mycotoxin and aflatoxin research from Iowa State University, the USDA, and Mississippi State University have been made through the NC213 collaborations. Collaborative research projects were conducted on control strategies for stored product insects on multiple stored grain commodities and aerosol treatments for processing facilities, which resulted in increased awareness of treatment options for stored product pests.   Selected highlights from individual research stations.   Iowa State University has been researching and testing new wireless monitoring systems aimed to replace temperature cables with the headspace of a grin bin, and plenum sensors that monitor temperature, relative humidity, and CO2 concentration during grain storage. The goal of the new system is to monitor grain conditions, make aeration decisions, and provide warnings of grain spoilage in time to act to reduce losses.   Researchers at Kansas State University have developed a big data framework to track the distribution of pathogens in the wheat supply chain. They consider a detailed wheat supply chain where temperature and humidity are the two main parameters responsible for bacterial contamination at any point in the network. They intend to explore interactions between several parameters other than temperature and humidity and validate the model with realistic data. Purdue University is currently working on creating a searchable online database for grain, co-products, and biomass physical properties The user-friendly web application tool is being developed using the open-source, server-based programming language, for easy retrieval of data.   Objective 3: To work with multi-institutional colleagues to improve the cereal grain and oilseed supply chain by creating measurable impacts that preserve quality, increase value and maintain food safety/security.   NC213 researchers from station locations participated in the Annual Meeting, where current research activities were presented and discussion among the research stations occurred. These interactions lead to new ideas, practices, and research projects among NC213 researchers to address specific engineering, scientific, and economic issues.   Highlights from individual research stations.   The Iowa State University (ISU) Kent Feed Mill and Grain Science Complex was officially dedicated in September 2023. This new facility provides a unique capability to allow for NC213 research collaborations between universities, USDA facilities, stakeholders, and industry partners to study the post-harvest supply chain and develop strategies to improve post-harvest storage, processing, and management systems. In addition, on-site training and coursework were conducted in this new facility to help grow the post-harvest community and to train the next generation of scientists.

Publications

Branstad-Spates, E.H., E.L. Bowers, C.R. Hurburgh, P.M. Dixon, and G.A. Mosher. 2023. Prevalence and Risk Assessment of Aflatoxin in Iowa Corn during a Drought Year.  International Journal of Food Science, 2023. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.1155/2023/9959998">https://doi.org/10.1155/2023/9959998</a>   Mendoza1, P.T.D., C R. Hurburgh,  D. E. Maier, and P R. Armstrong.  2023. NIR Spectral imaging for animal feed quality and safety. Applied Engineering in Agriculture, 39(6), 553-564. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.13031/aea.15051">https://doi.org/10.13031/aea.15051</a>   Derry, E. C.R. Hurburgh, and G.A. Mosher. 2023. Development of process to improve efficiency in near infra-red spectroscopy standardization. Presented at the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers, Omaha, NB, July 2023.   Chikez, H. 2023. Decision support tools to guide assessment and adoption of postharvest technologies and to ensure food security. Unpublished Ph.D. Dissertation, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.   Chikez, H.; Maier, D.; Olafsson, S.; and Sonka, S. Identifying Critical Drivers of Mango, Tomato, and Maize Postharvest Losses (PHL) in Low-Income Countries and Predicting Their Impact. Agriculture 2023, 13(10), 1912. DOI: : https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13101912   Identifying and comparing critical drivers of mango, tomato, and maize postharvest losses (PHL) and predicting their impact: <a href="https://phldashboard.shinyapps.io/phldashboard/">https://phldashboard.shinyapps.io/phldashboard/</a>   Multi-criteria decision support system to rank postharvest technologies based on Multi-Attribute Utility Theory (MAUT) adoption measures and numerous value chain actors’ preferences: <a href="https://phldashboard.shinyapps.io/MDCA/">https://phldashboard.shinyapps.io/MDCA/</a>   Techno-economic analysis (TEA) of remote sensing image-based technologies to quantify sweet potatoes left in the field in North Carolina, USA: <a href="https://phldashboard.shinyapps.io/TEASP/">https://phldashboard.shinyapps.io/TEASP/</a>   Ignacio, M.C.C.D. 2023. Ensuring Performance of Hermetic Bag Storage Technology for Food Security and Resource Sustainability. Unpublished Ph.D. dissertation, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.   Ignacio, M.C.C.D., Maier, D.E. and Vorst, K.L. (2023). Engineering properties of commercially available hermetic storage bag liners. Journal of the ASABE 66(3), pp. 601-615.  DOI:  <a href="https://doi.org/10.13031/ja.15366">https://doi.org/10.13031/ja.15366</a>   Ignacio, M.C.C.D., Rosentrater, K.A., and Maier, D.E. (2023). Estimating environmental and economic impacts of hermetic bag storage technology. Sustainability 15(20), 14850; DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/su152014850">https://doi.org/10.3390/su152014850</a>   Obeng-Akrofi, G., Maier, D.E., White, W.S., Akowuah, J.O., Bartosik, R. and Cardoso, L., 2023. Effectiveness of hermetic bag storage technology to preserve physical quality attributes of shea nuts. Journal of Stored Products Research, 101. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jspr.2023.102086">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jspr.2023.102086</a>   Akowuah, J.O., Owusu, G., Obeng-Akrofi, G. and Adjei, P.D., 2023. Comparative assessment of three low-capacity drying systems using the analytical hierarchy process. Journal of the Ghana Institution of Engineering (JGhIE), 23(4), pp.17-25. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.56049/jghie.v23i4.10">https://doi.org/10.56049/jghie.v23i4.10</a>   Adjei, P.D., Akowuah, J.O., Obeng-Akrofi, G. and Awafo, E., 2023. Thin-layer mathematical modelling of maize in a biomass-powered inclined bed dryer. Journal of the Ghana Institution of Engineering (JGhIE), 23(4), pp.48-54. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.56049/jghie.v23i4.104">https://doi.org/10.56049/jghie.v23i4.104</a>   Adjei, P.D., Akowuah, J.O., Obeng-Akrofi, G. and Awafo, E.A., 2023. Techno-economic analysis of a biomass-powered inclined bed dryer for maize drying. International Journal of Agricultural Research, Innovation and Technology (IJARIT), 13(1), pp.15-24. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.22004/ag.econ.338273">https://doi.org/10.22004/ag.econ.338273</a>   Arthur, E., Obeng-Akrofi, G., Awafo, E.A. and Akowuah, J.O., 2023. Comparative assessment of three storage methods for preserving maize grain to enhance food security post COVID-19. Scientific African, Volume 19, ISSN 2468-2276. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sciaf.2023.e01582">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sciaf.2023.e01582</a>   Obeng-Akrofi G., Maier, D.E. and Akowuah, J.O. Development of moisture sorption isotherm of shea nuts. ASABE 2023 Annual International Meeting, Omaha, NE, July 8 - 12, 2023. (presenter)   Obeng-Akrofi G., Maier, D.E. and J.O. Akowuah. Post-harvest loss assessment, practices, and opportunities for shea nut producers. ASABE 2023 Annual International Meeting, Omaha, NE, July 8 - 12, 2023. (presenter)   Adjei, P.D., Akowuah, J.O., Obeng-Akrofi, G. and Awafo, E.A. Thin-layer mathematical modelling of maize in a biomass-powered inclined bed dryer. ASABE 2023 Annual International Meeting, Omaha, NE, July 8 - 12, 2023.   Adjei, P.D., Akowuah, J.O., Obeng-Akrofi, G. and Awafo, E.A. Techno-economic analysis of a biomass-powered inclined bed dryer for maize drying. ASABE 2023 Annual International Meeting, Omaha, NE, July 8 - 12, 2023.   Musa S, Stratton J, Rose DJ, Bianchini A. 2023. The effect of lactic acid in association with steam in reducing microorganisms in hard red winter wheat. Cereal Chemistry in press. doi: 10.1002/cche.10735   Rajapaksha, R. A. D. (2022). Solvent Retention Capacity (SRC) Analysis of Hard Red Spring Wheat: Utilization of High Protein Solvent Systems (Doctoral dissertation, North Dakota State University).   Kim, Y.K., Baek, I., Lee, K.M., Kim, G., Chan, D.E., Herrman, T.J., Kim, N., and Kim, M.S. 2023. Hyperspectral imaging techniques for rapid detection of single- and co-contaminant aflatoxins and fumonisins in ground maize. Toxins. 15(7): 472.   Kim, Y.K., Qin, J., Baek, I., Lee, K.M., Kim, S. Y., Kim, S., Chan, D.E., Herrman, T.J., Kim, N., and Kim, M.S. 2023. Detection of aflatoxins in ground maize using a compact and automated Raman spectroscopy with machine learning. Current Research in Food Science. 7:100647 Srinivasan, B., Li, W., Ruth, C.J., Herrman, T.J., Erickson, D., and Mehta, S. 2023. Rapid quantification of aflatoxin in food at the point of need: A monitoring tool for food systems dashboards. Current Research in Biotechnology. 6: 100153.   Kirk-Bradley, N.T., Salau, T.G., Salzman, K.Z., Moore, J.M., 2023. Atmospheric cold plasma (ACP) treatment for efficient disinfestation of Cowpea Weevil, Callosbruchus maculatus. Journal of Agricultural and Biological Engineers, 66, 4, 921-927.   Impa, S.M., Bean, S.R., Ioerger, B.P., Hayes, C., Emendack, Y., Jagadish, S.V.K. 2023. Comparative assessment of grain quality in tannin versus non-tannin sorghum in the sorghum association panel. Cereal Chem. https://doi.org/10.1002/cche.10643   Ardoin, R., Smith, B., Bean, S., and Aramouni, F. 2023. Optimization of tannin-containing sorghum bran addition to gluten-free bread. J. Food Sci. 88:952-961.   Perumal, R., Tesso, T.T., Jagadish, S.V.K., Kumar, V., Aiken, R.M., Bean, S., Smolensky, D., Peiris, K.H.S., Prasad, P.V.V., and Little, C.R. 2023. Registration of grain sorghum seed (A/B) and pollinator (R) parent lines for chilling and drought tolerance. J. Plant Regist. 17:435-445.   Perez-Fajardo, M., Bean, S.R., and Dogan, H., 2023. Effect of cricket powders on dough functionality and bread quality. Cereal Chem. https://doi.org/10.1002/cche.10652   Kessler-Mathieu, M.S., Tilley, M., Prakash, S., Bean, S.R., Peiris, K.H.S., and Aramouni, F.M. 2023. TaqMan-based duplex real-time PCR approach for analysis of grain composition (Zea mays – Sorghum bicolor) in feedstock flour mixes for bioethanol production. ACS Agric. Sci. Technol. 3:232-240.   Mendoza, P.T., Armstrong, Peiris, K., Siliveru, K., Bean, S.R., and Pordesimo, L. 2023. Prediction of sorghum oil content using near-infrared hyperspectral imaging. Cereal Chem. https://doi.org/10.1002/cche.10656   Perez-Fajardo, M., Bean, S.R., Ioerger, B., Tilley, M., and Dogan, H. 2023. Characterization of commercial cricket protein powder and impact of cricket protein powder replacement on wheat dough protein composition. Cereal Chem. https://doi.org/10.1002/cche.10658   Cuevas, H.E., Peiris, K.H.S., and Bean, S.R. 20203. Assessment of grain protein in tropical sorghum accessions from the NPGS germplasm collection. Agronomy 13:1330. https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4395/13/5/1330   Peiris, K.H.S., Bean, S.R., Wu, X., Sexton-Bowser, S.A., and Tesso, T. 2023. Performance of a handheld microNIR instrument for determining protein levels in sorghum grain samples. Foods. 12:3101.   Ostmeyer, T.J., Somayanda, I.S., Bean, S.R., Rajveer, D., Hayes, C.M., Ritchie, G., Asebedo, A.R., Yves, E., and Jagadish, J.S.V. 2023. Impact of in-season split application of nitrogen on intra-panicle grain dynamics, grain quality and vegetative indices that govern nitrogen use efficiency in sorghum. J. of Plant Nutr. Soil Sci. 186: 611-698.   Pruett, A., Aramouni, F.M., Bean, S.R., and Haub, M. 2023. Effect of flour particle size on the glycemic index of muffins made from whole sorghum and comparison to muffins made from whole corn, brown rice, whole wheat, or refined wheat flours. Foods. 12, 4188.   Pulivarthi, M.K., Buenavista, R.M., Bangar, S.P., Li, Y., Pordesimo, L.O., Bean, S.R., and Siliveru, K. 2023. Dry fractionation process operations in the production of protein concentrates: A review. Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety. Accepted   Elsayed, S., Casada, M. E., Maghirang, R. G., Wei, M., & Maier, D. E. (2023). Numerical simulation of phosphine movement in bulk-stored grain. Journal of the ASABE, 66(3), 747–764. <a href="https://doi.org/10.13031/ja.15378">https://doi.org/10.13031/ja.15378</a>   McKay, T., Luthra, K., Starkus, L., Owusu, E., Siebenmorgen, J., Atungulu, G*. (2023). Assessing the Effects of Microwave Treatments on Rice Quality and Mortality of Adult Maize Weevil, Sitophilus zeamais. Journal of the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE), 66(5), 1033-1040. doi: 10.13031/ja.15436   Owusu, E., Luthra, K., Bruce, R., Atungulu, G*. (2023). Cooked rice safety: A review of status and potential of radiative pasteurization. Journal of Food Safety, 43(6). doi.org/10.1111/jfs.13090 (Review)   Smith, D. *, Wason, S., Bruce, R., Atungulu, G. (2023). Development of Radio-Frequency Technology for the Decontamination of Salmonella from Timothy Hay. Applied Engineering in Agriculture, 39(5), 473-485. doi: 10.13031/aea.15598   Ahmadzadeh, S., Hettiarachchy, N., Luthra, K., Chen, J., Seo, H.-S., Atungulu, G., Ubeyitogullari, A. * (2023). Effects of polyphenol-rich grape seed and green tea extracts on the physicochemical properties of 3D-printed edible soy protein films. Food Packaging and Shelf Life, 40(101184). <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2214289423001618">https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2214289423001618</a>. doi.org/10.1016/j.fpsl.2023.101184   Bruce, R., Atungulu, G. *, Baustista, R. (2023). Fissure Formation in Rice During Conventional and Microwave Drying. Journal of the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE), 66(3), 617-625. doi: 10.13031/ja.15228 (Review)   Ouma, F., Luthra, K., Sreenivasula, B., Abass, O., Atungulu, G. * (2023). High Power Microwave Treatment Impact on Microbes in Rough Rice. Rice Science. <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1672630823000987">https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1672630823000987</a>. doi.org/10.1016/j.rsci.2023.08.006   Boreddy, S. R., Luthra, K., Atungulu, G. * (2023). High-Power Short Duration Microwave Drying of Rice Versus Fissuring and Milling Yields. Journal of American Society of Agricultural and Biological engineers (ASABE), 66(5), 995-1004. doi: 10.13031/ja.15410   Okeyo, A., Luthra, K., Atungulu, G. * (2023). Impact of degree of milling on cooking duration and textural attributes of long-grain hybrid rice for instant rice processing. Cereal Chemistry, 100(4), 830-840. doi.org/10.1002/cche.10660   Oduola, A., Bruce, R., Shafiekhani, S., Atungulu, G. * (2023). Impacts of industrial microwave and infrared drying approaches on hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) quality and chemical components. Food and Bioproducts Processing, 137, 20-27. doi.org/10.1016/j.fbp.2022.10.010   Ding, C. *, Luo, Y., Atungulu, G., Ding, H., Huang, L., Simelane, M., Zhao, S., Liu, Q. (2023). Influence of cooking and texture attributes of far infrared radiated Japonica rice during storage. Journal of Cereal Science, 112. <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0733521023000838">https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0733521023000838</a>. DOI:10.1016/j.jcs.2023.103710   Owusu, E., Luthra, K., Atungulu, G.* (2023). Microwave-Cooking of Rice in Steam-Venting Packages and Impacts on Quality Attributes. Journal of the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE), 66(3), 789-797. doi: 10.13031/ja.15382   Panigrahi, S. S., Luthra, K., Singh, C. B.*, Atungulu, G., Corscadden, K. (2023). On-farm grain drying system sustainability: Current energy and carbon footprint assessment with potential reform measures. Sustainable Energy Technologies and Assessments, 60. <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S221313882300423X">https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S221313882300423X</a>. doi.org/10.1016/j.seta.2023.103430 (Review)   Branstad-Spates, E. E.L. Bowers, C.R. Hurburgh, and G.A. Mosher. 2023. “Prevalence and risk assessment of aflatoxin in Iowa corn crop during a drought year”. International Journal of Food Science, article ID 995998. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.1155/2023/9959998">https://doi.org/10.1155/2023/9959998</a>.   Branstad-Spates, E. H., L. Castano-Duque, G.A. Mosher, C.R. Hurburgh Jr., P. Owens, E. Winzeler, K. Rajasekaran, and E.L. Bowers. 2023. “Gradient boosting machine learning model to predict aflatoxins in Iowa corn.” Frontiers in Microbiology, volume 14, 1-12. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2023.1248772">https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2023.1248772</a>    Gupta, P., C.R. Hurburgh, E.L. Bowers, and G.A. Mosher. 2023. “Assessing the feasibility of meeting tolerance limits for GM adventitious presence in corn supply chain using probabilistic modeling” Applied Engineering in Agriculture, 39(5), 543-551. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.13031/aea.15570">https://doi.org/10.13031/aea.15570</a>.    Gupta, P., C.R. Hurburgh, E.L. Bowers, and G.A. Mosher. 2022. “Application of fault tree analysis – failure mode and effect analysis to evaluate critical factors influencing non-GM segregation in the U.S. grain and feed supply chain”. Cereal Chemistry, 99(6), 1394-1413. DOI: <a href="https://10.1002/cche.10601">https://10.1002/cche.10601</a>    Wright, J.J. 2023. Predictive modeling for cable free grain storage management. Unpublished M.S. Thesis, Iowa State University.   Subramanyam, Bh., S. Manivannan., Olson, R., Taft, J., Hanni, S. 2023. Evaluation of dichlorvos pest strips in shipping containers holding soybeans: Effectiveness against immature stages of Plodia interpunctella (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae). Journal of Stored Products Research 103, 102155.   Manivannan, S., Subramanyam, Bh. 2023. Contact toxicity of two amorphous diatomaceous earth powders against the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae). Insects 14, 833.   Manivannan, S., Subramanyam, Bh. 2023. Contact toxicity of two candidate diatomaceous earths against the lesser grain borer, Rhyzopertha dominica (F.) (Coleoptera: Bostrichidae). Journal of Stored Products Research 104, 10222.   Manivannan, S., Subramanyam, Bh. 2023. Suitability of different soybean substrates and a laboratory diet on the development of Indian meal moth, Plodia Interpunctella (Hübner) Lepidoptera: Pyralidae). Modern Concepts and Developments in Agronomy 13, MCDA.000807.2023, 1258-1262.   Buenavista, R.M., E. Xinyi, Bh. Subramanyam, J.L. Rivera, M. Casada, K. Siliveru. 2023. Evaluation of wheat kernel and flour quality as influenced by chlorine dioxide gas treatment. Journal of Stored Products Research 102, 102127.   Berhe, M., Bh. Subramanyam, G. Demissie, M. Chichaybelu, F. A. Abera, R. Mahroof, J. Harvey. 2023. Effect of storage duration and storage technologies on pest infestations and post-harvest quality loss of stored sesame seeds in Ethiopia. Journal of Stored Products Research 103, 102161.   Deliephan, A., Bh. Subramanyam, C. G. Aldrich. 2023. Food safety issues in semi-moist/intermediate moisture foods and their mitigation using clean label antimicrobials-A review. Modern Concepts and Developments in Agronomy 12, MCDA.00091.2023, 1200-1210.   Deliephan, A., J. Dhakal, Bh. Subramanyam, C.G. Aldrich. 2023. Use of organic acid mixtures containing 2-hydroxy-4-(methylthio) butanoic acid (HMBTa) to mitigate Salmonella enterica, Shiga-toxin producing Escherechia coli (STEC) and Aspergillus flavus in pet food kibbles. Animals 13, 877.   Deliephan, A., T.W. Phillips, Bh. Subramanyam, C.G. Aldrich, J. Maille, N. Manu. 2023. Efficacy of liquid smoke to mitigate infestations of the storage mite, Tyrophagus putrescentiae, in a model semi-moist pet food. Animals 13, 3188.   Deliephan, A., J. Dhakal, Bh. Subramanyam, C.G. Aldrich. 2023. Effects of liquid smoke preparations on shelf life and growth of wild type mold and Aspergillus flavus in a model semi moist pet food. Frontiers in Microbiology 14:1154765.   Deliephan, A., J. Dhakal, Bh. Subramanyam, C.G. Aldrich. 2023. Mitigation of Salmonella on food contact surfaces using organic acid mixtures containing 2-hydroxy-4-(methylthio) butanoic acid (HMTBa). Foods 12, 874.   Shivaprasad, D. P., K. Siliveru, and Y. Zheng. 2023. Emerging applications of cold plasma technology in cereal grains and products. Trends in Food Science and Technology, 141, 104177. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tifs.2023.104177">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tifs.2023.104177</a>   Pulivarthi, M., R. Buenavista, S. P. Bangar, Y. Li, L. O. Pordesimo, S. Bean, and K. Siliveru. 2023. Dry fractionation process operations in the production of protein concentrates: A review. Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety, 1-28. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/1541-4337.13237">https://doi.org/10.1111/1541-4337.13237</a>   Santana, A. L., J. Peterson, R. Perumal, C. Hu, S. Sang, K. Siliveru, and D. Smolensky. 2023. Post acid treatment on pressurized liquid extracts of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) grain and plant material improves quantification and identification of 3-deoxyanthocyanidins. Processes, 11, 2079. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11072079">https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11072079</a>   Rivera, J. D., D. P. Shivaprasad, A. Vikram and K. Siliveru. 2023. Phage biocontrol effectively reduces contamination of wheat with Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli O121 and O26 without adverse effects on flour quality. Journal of Food Protection, 86, 100137. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfp.2023.100137">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfp.2023.100137</a>   Nkurikiye, E., M. K. Pulivarthi, A. Bhatt,  K. Siliveru, and Y. Li. 2023. Bulk and flow characteristics of pulse flours: a comparative study of yellow pea, lentil, and chickpea flours of varying particle size. Journal of Food Engineering, 357, 111647. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfoodeng.2023.111647">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfoodeng.2023.111647</a>   Dhakal, J., J. Rivera,  K. Siliveru, and C. G. Aldrich. 2023. Control of Aspergillus and Fusarium in-vitro and in Wheat Using Sodium Bisulfate (SBS) Acidulant. Food Protection Trends, 43 (6), 479-484. DOI: 10.4315/FPT-23-006   Suprabha Raj, A., H. M. Boyacioglu, H. Dogan, and K. Siliveru. 2023. Investigating contribution of blending on solvent retention capacity and dough rheology of roller milled hard red wheat. Foods, 12(10), 2078. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/foods12102078">https://doi.org/10.3390/foods12102078</a>   Buenavista, R., E. Xinyi, Bh. Subramanyam, J. Rivera, M. Casada, and K. Siliveru. Evaluation of wheat kernel and flour quality as influenced by chlorine dioxide gas treatment. Journal of Stored Products Research, 102, 102127. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jspr.2023.102127">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jspr.2023.102127</a>   Rivera, J., A. Owonikoko, J. Zhao, and K. Siliveru. 2023. Significance of storage conditions on the flow properties of wheat flours. Journal of Food Measurement and Characterization. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s11694-023-01938-0">https://doi.org/10.1007/s11694-023-01938-0</a>   Radhakrishnan, M., S. Maqsood, and K. Siliveru. 2023. Editorial: Emerging non-thermal technology applications for sustainable food processing. Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 7, 1190320. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.3389/fsufs.2023.1190320">https://doi.org/10.3389/fsufs.2023.1190320</a> (Editorial)   Yao, H., Zhu, F., Kincaid, R., Hruska, Z., Rajasekaran, K. 2023. A low-cost, portable device for detecting and sorting aflatoxin-contaminated maize kernels. Toxins, 15(3), 197. https://doi.org/10.3390/toxins15030197   Yao, H., Hruska, Z., Kincaid, R., Tao, F., Rajasekaran, K. 2023. Effect of Aspergillus flavus fungi infection and aflatoxin contamination on single corn kernel mechanical strength. Applied Engineering in Agriculture, 39(2), 197–205. <a href="https://doi.org/10.13031/aea.15266">https://doi.org/10.13031/aea.15266</a>   Brabec, D., Lanka, S., Campbell, J.F., Arthur, F.H., Scheff, D.S., Zhu, K.Y. 2023. Aerosolized Insecticide Spray Distributions and Relationships to Efficacy against Stored Product Pests. Insects, 14, 914. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/insects14120914">https://doi.org/10.3390/insects14120914</a>   Scheff, D.S., Arthur, F.H., Domingue, M.J., Myers, S.W. 2024. Combination insecticide treatments with methoprene and pyrethrin for control of khapra beetle larvae on different commodities. Submitted to Insects December 2024.   Akoto, E.Y., and Maier, D.E. 2023. The mechanism of drug carryover in feed manufacturing as a function of drug properties and equipment design—a brief review." Agriculture 13(9),1834. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13091834">https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture13091834</a>   Moisture Management in Feeds – Iran Feed Expo, January 6, 2023 (Ewing)   SLAM 360: Best Grain Quality Preservation Practices – Sanitation and Loading, Feed Strategy Webinar Series, March 29, 2023 (Maier)   Moisture Management in Feeds, Devenish Nutrition Webinar, April 26, 2023 (Ewing)   SLAM 360: Best Grain Quality Preservation Practices – Aeration, Feed Strategy Webinar Series, June 29, 2023 (Maier)   Optimizing Feed Mill Operations, U.S. Grains Council Nigeria Nutrition and Feed Technology Online Program, October 18, 2023 (Maier)   Africa Poultry Industry Training Course, Middle East and Africa Feed Manufacturing Training Center (Tunisia), U.S. Grains Council, January 15-21, 2023. (Maier: 2 lectures, 2 hands-on trainings)   Middle East, Africa and Europe Corn Quality Rollout Conference, U.S. Grains Council, Tunis (Tunisia), January 18-20, 2023. (Maier: 2 lectures)   Colombia Feed Industry Engagement, March 27-30 2023, Devenish Nutrition (Ewing: 2 lectures, company visits)   Swine DDGS Education Workshop, International Grain and Feed Industry Academy, Iowa State University, U.S. Grains Council Sonora Mexico Swine DDGS Education Team, June 5, 2023 (Maier: 1 lecture; Greiner: 1 lecture; Ewing: 1 tour)   Feed Manufacturing Training Program, International Grain and Feed Industry Academy, Iowa State University, U.S. Grains Council Sorghum Export West Africa Team, June 6-10, 2023. (Maier: 2 lectures; Ewing: 2 lectures, 1 tour; Akoto: 1 lecture)   Saudi Arabia Corn & Co-Products Promotion Conference, Riyadh & Dammam, Saudi Arabia, September 11-15, 2023 (Maier: 3 lectures; 2 site visits)   Middle East Feed Millers Conference, Sharm al Shiek, Egypt, October 2-7, 2023, Devenish Nutrition. (Ewing: 1 Lecture)   Turkey & South Asia Feed Manufacturing Training Course, Middle East and Africa Feed Manufacturing Training Center (Tunisia), U.S. Grains Council, October 15-20, 2023. (Maier: 2 lectures, 2 hands-on trainings)   Poultry Industry Virtual Training Course for Nigerian Feed Industry Professionals, Middle East and Africa Feed Manufacturing Training Center (Tunisia), U.S. Grains Council, November 9-11, 2022. (Maier; 4 lectures)   West African Feed Industry Engagement Program, Lagos, Nigeria, U.S. Grains Council, November 12-17, 2023. (Ewing:1 lecture, 4 company visits)

Impact Statements

Research conducted by NC-213 Scientists on steam treatments of wheat addresses the food safety concern of microbial contamination in wheat flour and introduces a novel method involving lactic acid and steam treatment to significantly reduce microbial loads without compromising the functional properties of flour.
Research conducted by members of NC-213 show that Solvent Retention Capacity (S.R.C.) is useful for the evaluation of specific flour polymers of HRS wheat cultivars for their end-use potential. Traditional SRC solvents are useful for millers due to the rapid prediction of flour quality parameters, while the supplemental SRC solvents can be used to predict the hard wheat quality since the successful correlations with protein quality-related parameters. The development of the supplemental solvents has gained traction among U.S. wheat customers across the global market, especially by Southeast Asian customers.
A compact and automated Raman system developed by NC-213 collaborative efforts is a highly applicable alternative tool for qualitative and quantitative analysis of aflatoxin in a variety of feed and food matrices since it is rapid, non-destructive, and cost-effective as a screening tool. The proposed Raman system can be capable of rapidly measuring contaminated samples with higher sensitivity and specificity to conduct automated sample analysis. As a result, it can serve as a powerful method to help control contaminated feed and food products for improvement of the safety in the grain industry.
Study conducted by NC-213 researchers reveals the real-time data sharing capabilities of a point-of-need (PON) reader with a proof-of-concept centralized and cloud-based AF databank. This databank can facilitate timely monitoring across different facets of food systems, ensuring accessible data for early warnings, data-driven decisions, rapid interventions, and enhanced coordination among diverse stakeholders within the food system. With wireless data transfer, it can facilitate real-time data collection, stored in a cloud-based AF database, revolutionizing efficient and cost-effective food safety monitoring.
Studies have proven that Aflatoxin is regarded as one of the most important food safety problems in the world. Corn contaminated with toxigenic strains of A. flavus can result in great losses to the agricultural industry and pose threats to public health. The research effort aims at providing a rapid, non-destructive method for screening corn at elevators or grain collection points, identifying and diverting contaminated grain into alternative uses, thereby protecting the food supply and increasing producer profitability. Results from this current NC-213 study enhanced the potential of using multispectral imaging for the detection of fungal infected and aflatoxin contaminated corn.
Research has proven that all food processing facilities and warehouses vary in size, structural components, design, etc. which challenges pest management professionals. Using the information in this NC-213 led study, the general public and researchers can better understand the relationship between a structural design, aerosol application type and technique, to better understand particle deposition and predicted efficacy. This information can be used and will lead to better, more uniform, and effective aerosol insecticide treatments.

Date of Annual Report: 03/21/2025

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 02/19/2025 - 02/20/2025
Period the Report Covers: 10/01/2023 - 09/30/2024

Participants

Full Name Company Name
Annor, George
University of Minnesota
Baidhe, Emmanuel
North Dakota State University
Clementson, Clairmont
North Dakota State University
Galib, Ruslan
University of Arkansas
Hill, Chuck
AgReliant Genetics LLC
Hoag, Noah
Iowa State University
Igwe, Victory
Purdue University
ILELEJI, KLEIN
Purdue University
Islam, Shahidul
North Dakota State University
Issa, Salah
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Jiang, Yan
Iowa State University
Jones, Micala
Purdue University
Lambros, Alexis
Iowa State University
LUTHRA, KAUSHIK
UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS
Maghirang, Elizabeth
Contractor
Moore, Janie
Texas A&M AgriLife Research
Morrison, William
USDA-ARS
Mosher, Gretchen
Iowa State University
Nelson, Jessica
Purdue University
Ofosu, Stephen
Iowa State University
Petingco, Marvin
Kansas State university
Pordesimo, Lester
USDA-ARS-CGAHR
Rahman, Mahfuzur
University of Arkansas - Fayetteville
Rao, Jiajia
NORTH DAKOTA STATE UNIV
Rausch, Kent
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Sabbir, A S M Younus Bhuiyan
Iowa State University
Safwa, Saydul Md
UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS
SCHEFF, DEANNA
USDA, ARS, USCGAHR
Schendel, Rachel
University of Kentucky
Simsek, Senay
Purdue University, Department of Food Science
Tumbleson, Mike
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Yan, Shuping
USDA-ARS-CGAHR

Brief Summary of Minutes

NC-213 Annual Business Meeting Minutes

Thursday, February 20, 2025, 12:30PM Central time

In attendance:

Vice Chair: Salah Issa, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Secretary: George Annor, The University of Minnesota

The Andersons: Christopher Reed

Objective Chairs:

Gretchen Mosher: Iowa State University

Senay Simsek: Purdue University

Other members:

Mike Tumbleson - University of Illinois, Shahidul Islam - North Dakota State University, Younus Bhuiyan Sabbir - Iowa State University, Alexis Lambros - Iowa State University, Kaushik Luthra- University of Arkansas, Stephen Anim - Iowa State University, Yan Jiang - Iowa State University, Jessica Nelson - Purdue University, Emmanuel Baidhe - North Dakota State University, Clairmont Clementson - North Dakota State University, Victory Igwe - North Dakota State University, Klein Ileleji - Purdue University, Micala Jones - Purdue University, Kent Rausch - University of Illinois, Noah Hoag- Iowa State University, Sam Mazzocco - Iowa State University, Chuck Hill - AgReliant Genetics, Rachel Schendel - University of Kentucky

Absent with apologies:

Chair: Deanna Scheff, USDA-ARS-CGAHR-SPIERU, Manhattan, KS

Past Chair: Janie McClurkin Moore, Texas A&M University

Administrative Advisor/Coordinator: Gary Pierzynski, The Ohio State University

Bill Koshar, The Ohio State University

Meeting this year was hosted by Salah Issa and George Annor on behalf of Deanna Scheff due to her inability to attend the meeting because of personal family commitments. Janie McClurkin Moore and Gary Pierzynski could not also attend the meeting due to bad weather conditions

Awards:

Student Poster Showing People’s Choice Award: Jessica Nelson – Purdue University

The Andersons Early in Career Award: Mahfuzur Rahman - University of Arkansas

The Andersons Cereals and Oilseeds Award of Excellence: Kingsley Ambrose - Purdue University

Voting & Elections for Secretary

Discussion on the voting process for secretary included clarifications on eligibility and procedures. Debate on whether institutions should have multiple votes; consensus was to maintain a one-vote-per-institution policy. Tie-breaking methods considered included a revote, allowing candidates to withdraw, or a random draw.

Candidates: Kaushik Luthra (University of Arkansas)-Nominated by George Annor

Clairmont Clementson (North Dakota State University) – Nominated by Victory Igwe

Clairmont Clementson from North Dakota State University was elected secretary

Additional committee and advisory roles were filled accordingly.

Newly elected members were asked to provide contact details for organizational records.

Recognition and congratulations were extended to elected members, followed by a brief discussion of their upcoming responsibilities

NC-213 Executive Committee rotation:

Deanna Scheff, rolls off Chair to Past Chair

Salah Issa moves from Vice Chair to Chair

George Annor moves from Secretary to Vice Chair

Janie McClurkin Moore rolls off Past Chair

Chuck Hill remains as Industry Advisory Committee Chair

Kaushlendra Tingi and Charlotte Tuttle remain our U.S.D.A. – N.I.F.A. Representatives

Gary Pierzynski remains as Administrative Advisor/Coordinator

Objective Co-Chairs:

Objective 1: K.M. Lee – Senay Simsek

Objective 2: Janie McClurkin Moore – Kaliramesh Siliveru

Objective 3: Kingsly Ambrose – Gretchen Mosher

NC-213 2025 Executive Committee

Chair: Salah Issa, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Vice Chair: George Annor, The University of Minnesota

Secretary: Clairmont Clementson, North Dakota State University

Past Chair: Deanna Scheff, USDA-ARS-CGAHR-SPIERU, Manhattan, KS

Chuck Hill remains as Industry Advisory Committee Chair

Kaushlendra Tingi and Charlotte Tuttle remain our U.S.D.A. – N.I.F.A. Representatives

Gary Pierzynski remains as Administrative Advisor/Coordinator

Objective Co-Chairs:

Objective 1: K.M. Lee – Senay Simsek

Objective 2: Janie McClurkin Moore – Kaliramesh Siliveru

Objective 3: Kingsly Ambrose – Gretchen Mosher

Future Meetings & Scheduling

University of Arkansas confirmed as the next meeting host.

Proposed timeline: First week of March with exact dates to be finalized based on venue availability and member schedules. A discussion was held on avoiding conflicts with other major meetings (e.g., Quality Council or GEAPS meetings). Members were encouraged to mark their calendars in advance and suggest alternative dates if conflicts arise. Suggestions were made to implement a virtual attendance option for those unable to travel.

2027 – GEAPS

2028 – Wheat Quality Council

2029 – Kansas State/USDA, Manhattan Kansas

Website Updates & Maintenance

Discussion on maintaining an up-to-date website with relevant information was had.

The following were some suggestions for improvement:

Ensure executive committee details are updated annually.

Provide a dedicated section for meeting minutes and past proceedings.

Faculty information should be regularly updated, with a process in place for reporting changes.

Improve navigation and accessibility for key organizational documents.

Consider adding a feedback form to gather member input on website improvements.

Event & Logistical Considerations

Meals & Catering

Members though the buffet breakfast should be eliminated since most participants had breakfast at their respective hotels. On the other hand, participants could be allowed to select whether they wanted breakfast or not during the registration. Mention was made of the lack of vegetarian and other options during the lunch buffet. There was suggestion to streamline meal planning to ensure other options are available in future events.

Poster Session Challenges

Lack of clear guidelines on poster size and submission process caused confusion.

Suggestion to implement an electronic submission option for judges unable to attend in person.

Discussion on potential use of QR codes for poster access and engagement.

Industry participation in poster judging remains a challenge; alternative solutions to be explored.

Proposal to establish a set number of judges for each category to ensure consistency.

Administrative Review & Compliance

The mid-term review is scheduled for this year or next year

The administrative advisor/coordinator will oversee the review process.

Ensuring compliance with organizational standards and expectations was emphasized.

Plan to create a checklist to facilitate the review process and ensure all necessary documents are in place.

Other Discussions & Feedback

Acknowledgment of the venue’s quality and suitability for the meeting.

General reflections on how to improve future events.

Recognition of elected board members and their responsibilities.

Need for structured student and faculty engagement in meetings and voting processes.

Proposal to develop an orientation guide for new members to familiarize them with roles and responsibilities.

Adjournment

The meeting was formally adjourned at 1:30pm following a motion by Gretchen Mosher, seconded by Klein Ileleji. Members were thanked for their participation and contributions.

Minutes prepared by George Annor

Accomplishments

Accomplishments & Impact Statements NC-213 2024 Accomplishments Objective 1: To measure, model, and assess factors that influence the quality, safety, and nutrition of cereal grains and oilseeds during post-harvest drying, storage, processing, and distribution. NC-213 researchers from various universities and USDA facilities have been conducting collaborative studies. Their research includes the development of robust calibration models for near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy for rapid and non-destructive chemical analysis; evaluation of the environmental and economic impacts of low-temperature, closed-cycle grain drying; investigation of the stored grain ecosystem within grain bins; analysis of the relationship between the solvent retention capacity (SRC) test and quality assessments of hard red spring (HRS) wheat; and examination of the effects of processing on wheat quality and nutrient content. Additional efforts have focused on integrating approaches for enhancing the profitability of the shea nut value chain, developing a novel triaxial pressure sensor for in-situ measurements in grain bins, identifying factors influencing sorghum grain composition, and designing a portable multimodal optical sensing system. NC-213 researchers have published over 20 peer-reviewed articles and presented their findings at both national and international conferences.   Selected highlights from individual research stations: <ul> <li>Researchers at the University of Illinois established robust calibration models for rapid and non-destructive chemical composition analysis of corn and soybean. They conducted external validation using independent sample sets to assess model reliability and evaluated performance using statistical metrics such as R², RMSEP, and RPD. They also collected corn samples from various states and countries to develop global models. They identified the optimal spectral features and spectral ranges associated with variations in moisture, protein, starch, and oil content in corn. Besides, they designed and implemented a graphical user interface (GUI) for spectral data analysis. The GUI integrates advanced data processing and chemometric analysis tools for NIR spectroscopy, enhancing the accessibility of spectral analysis for researchers and industry professionals.</li> <li>Researchers at Iowa State University conducted a study to understand the environmental and economic impact of low-temperature, closed-cycle grain drying by using techno-economic analysis (TEA) and life cycle assessment (LCA). LCA results indicated that greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions increase along with the expansion of the drying system since the electricity comes from a local-coal-based electricity plant. In addition, the Iowa State University grain quality laboratory created corn and soybean proximate analysis calibrations for multiple models of near infrared transmission (NIRT) analyzers. Calibrations were validated by instrument model to reference chemistry on an annual basis. Reproducibility and repeatability were tracked. A review paper was published in 2024 detailing costs and benefits of applications of NIR HSI for safety and quality evaluation of animal feed ingredients.</li> <li>Researchers at University of Kentucky introduced a novel triaxial pressure sensor for in-situ measurements in grain bins. The sensors were housed in a 3-D printed shell, with three load cells and a digital camera. The results showed a clear radial variation in pressure. The data was within 5-25% of the Janssen equation, and the variation reproduced features from previously published literature. This study was limited by the small number of experiments conducted. The sensor design could be improved by exploring diaphragm-style sensors, which allow for increased sensitivity and reduced friction.</li> <li>Researchers at University of Nebraska determined the effect of processing on micronutrients, cadmium dialyzability, and cellular bioaccessibility of wheat. Boiling and germination failed to improve beneficial micronutrient bioaccessibility compared to raw flour. Fermentation increased the bioaccessibility of cadmium, magnesium, iron, and zinc. Dialyzability only presented a valid correlation with bioaccessibility for cadmium (r = 68; p < .001). Thus, food processing did not decrease cadmium bioaccessibility from wheat porridge. They also conducted research on wheat end-use quality. They evaluated the Glutopeak instrument for its suitability as a replacement for the Mixograph. The corresponding rheological parameters were significantly linearly correlated between Glutopeak and Mixograph: mixing time, torque and energy (r >0.75; p < .001). The wheat flour protein concentration showed more significant corrections with rheological properties of GlutoPeak than those of Mixograph. The wheat flour bread baking characteristics (i.e. loaf volume and texture) showed stronger corrections with rheological properties of GlutoPeak than those of Mixograph.</li> <li>Researchers at Purdue University conducted research to better understand the stored grain ecosystem in a grain bin across different seasons. The study results showed that monitoring of carbon dioxide (CO2) at the plenum followed similar trends with CO2 levels at the headspace. There were significant differences (p < 0.05) in the CO2 concentration levels at the plenum and headspace during fall, spring, and summer. In addition, researchers at Purdue University examined the relationship between the solvent retention capacity (SRC) test and quality assessments of HRS wheat grown at four locations in North Dakota in two years.  The study results showed that differences in locations contributed significantly to variation in quality parameters and traditional and supplemental SRC values within the same year. Traditional SRC values and gluten performance index (GPI) significantly (p ≤ 0.01) correlated with flour components and Farinograph water absorption. In addition, highly significant (p ≤ 0.001) correlations were found between the supplementary solvents and analyzed rheological and baking quality parameters especially with water absorption and loaf volume.</li> <li>Researchers at Texas A&M designed a portable multimodal optical sensing system for fast, automated, and intelligent inspection of biological and chemical hazards. The software components enabled the system to perform spectral and image preprocessing. Additionally, machine learning algorithms were integrated to enhance the system's capability to automatically analyze the data and make intelligent assessments and improve the accuracy and efficiency of food safety applications, which facilitates rapid detection and analysis of biological and chemical hazards in grain products. In this study, they achieved a classification accuracy exceeding 95%, effectively identifying varying levels of contamination within these samples.</li> <li>Researchers at the USDA-ARS investigated factors influencing the composition of sorghum grain via experiments on the timing and application of nitrogen fertilization as well as transcriptome and metabolomic studies. They also determined the effect of heating sorghum flour on the phenolic content and produced gold nanoparticles from sorghum and wheat bran. Research was also conducted to determine how ultrasound tempering of sorghum grain influenced milling quality.</li> </ul>

Publications

Objective 1 Publications   Zheng, R., Jia, Y., Ullagaddi, C., Allen, C., Rausch, K., Singh, V., Schnable, J. C., & Kamruzzaman, M. (2024). Optimizing feature selection with gradient boosting machines in PLS regression for predicting moisture and protein in multi-country corn kernels via NIR spectroscopy. Food Chemistry, 140062. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.140062">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.140062</a>   Ahmed, M. T., & Kamruzzaman, M. (2024). Enhancing corn quality prediction: Variable selection and explainable AI in spectroscopic analysis. Smart Agricultural Technology, 8, 100458. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.atech.2024.100458">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.atech.2024.100458</a>   Ahmed, M. T., Ahmed, M. W., & Kamruzzaman, M. (2024). SpectroChat: A windows executable graphical user interface for chemometrics analysis of spectroscopic data. Software Impacts, 100698. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.simpa.2024.100698">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.simpa.2024.100698</a>   P.T.D. Mendoza, C.R. Hurburgh, D.E. Maier, and P.R. Armstrong. 2023. NIR spectral imaging for animal feed quality and safety. Applied Engineering in Agriculture, 39(6), 553-564. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.13031/aea.15051">https://doi.org/10.13031/aea.15051</a>.   S.K. Ramaswamy, G.A. Mosher, and K.A. Rosentrater. 2024. Techno-economic analysis of near infrared (NIR) systems at feed mills as a low cost, high-speed alternative to feed ingredient testing. Journal of Agricultural Engineering (India), 61(5): October 2024, 675-685.DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.52151/jae2024615.1876">https://doi.org/10.52151/jae2024615.1876</a>   Ph.D. Final Oral Defense. November 20th 2024. Integrated approaches for profitable shea nut value chain enhancement: A case study in rural Ghana   Feed Manufacturing Training Program, International Grain and Feed Industry Academy, Iowa State University, U.S. Grains Council Sub-Saharan Africa DDGS Team, May 7-8, 2024 (Obeng-Akrofi: 2 lectures)   Advanced Grain Elevator Operations Management Short Course, Grain & Feed Association of Illinois (GFAI), Bloomington, Illinois, June 17-21, 2024. (Obeng-Akrofi: 4 lectures; 3 hands-on sessions)   Advanced Grain Elevator Operations Management Short Course, Agribusiness Association of Iowa (AAI), Ames, Iowa, August 5-9, 2024. (Obeng-Akrofi: 4 lectures; 3 hands-on sessions)   Rogers A, Dyck G, Paliwal J, Hildebrand K, Montross MD, Turner AP. The Janssen effect and the Chini ordinary differential equation. Powder Technology. 2024 Mar 1;436:119493.   Motta-Romero HA, Guha S, Majumder K, Rose DJ. 2024. The effect of food processing on the bioaccessibility of cadmium and micronutrients from whole wheat porridge. Cereal Chemistry 101:759-770.   Olenloa. A. E., and K.E. Ileleji*. 2024. A review on the mathematical modelling of grain storage ecosystems in grain structures and bags. Journal of Agricultural Engineering (India) 61(5), October 2024.   Olenloa. A. E., and K.E. Ileleji*. 2025. Seasonal changes of abiotic and biotic factors in stored corn ecosystem during a year storage. Transactions of the ASABE. Under review (TP-XXX).   Olenloa. A. E., and K.E. Ileleji. 2025. Evolution and emerging technologies for stored grain monitoring and management-A review. Journal of Stored Products Research. In preparation.   APTECA Proficiency Testing (PT) Program for Aflatoxin, Fumonisin and DON. 2024. Round 1. file:///C:/Users/tjh/Downloads/202401%20Aflatoxin%20(Total)%20AL.pdf   APTECA Proficiency Testing (PT) Program for Aflatoxin, Fumonisin and DON. 2024. Round 2file:///C:/Users/tjh/Downloads/202402%20Aflatoxin%20(Total)%20AL.pdf   APTECA Proficiency Testing (PT) Program for Aflatoxin, Fumonisin and DON. 2024. Round 3file:///C:/Users/tjh/Downloads/202403%20Aflatoxin%20(Total)%20AL-1.pdf   Kirk-Bradley, N.T., Salau, T.G., Salzman, K.Z., Moore, J.M., 2024. Evaluation of cold atmospheric-pressure plasma effects on DNA endoreplication in Callosobruchus maculatus: a rapid flow cytometry-based study. Plasma Processes and Polymers. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1002/ppap.202400117">https://doi.org/10.1002/ppap.202400117</a>    Kirk-Bradley, N., Hujon, S., Rohilla, Aditi, Burciaga, M., Zhu-Salzman, K., Moore, J.M. Cold plasma-induced mortality in Sitophilus oryzae (L.) populations. Crop Protection. CROPRO-D-23-01615R1   Ostmeyer, T.J., Impa, S.M., Peiris, K.H.S., Bean, S.R., Ritchie, G., and Jagadish, S.V.K. 2024. Grain protein and amino acid dynamics in sorghum with in-season split-nitrogen application. Cereal Chem. 101:833-846. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1002/cche.10783">https://doi.org/10.1002/cche.10783</a>   Khan, A., Tian, R., Bean, S.R., Yerka, M., and Jiao, Y. 2024. Transcriptome and metabolome analyses reveal regulatory networks associated with nutrition synthesis in sorghum seeds. Communications Biology. 7:841   Peterson, J., Santana, A.L., Cox, S., Perez-Fajardo, M., Covarrubias, J., Perumal, R., Bean, S., Wu, S., Wang, W., and Smolensky, D. 2024. Impact of heat and high-moisture pH treatments on starch digestibility, phenolic composition, and cell bioactivity in sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) flour. Frontiers in Nutrition, Nutrition and Food Science and Technology. 11-2024. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2024.1428542">https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2024.1428542</a>   McDowell, R., Banda, L., Bean, S.R., Morris, G.P., and Rhodes, D.H. 2024. Grain yellowness is an effective qualitative predictor of provitamin A carotenoids in global sorghum germplasm. Scientific Reports. Scientific Reports. 14:25132 <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-75451-9">https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-75451-9</a>   Pulivarthi, M.K., Bean, S.R., Pordesimo, L.O., and Siliveru, K. 2024. Influence of ultrasound tempering on flour quality of white and sumac sorghum milled on a roller mill. J. ASABE. 67:1337-1351. <a href="https://doi.org/10.13031/ja.15965">https://doi.org/10.13031/ja.15965</a>   Belaineh, Y.G., Talili, D.T., Bean, S.R., Aramouni, F.M., Wu, X., Liu, S., and Tesso, T. 2024. Genotype and grain pre-treatment effects on digestibility of sorghum proteins in the Ethiopian fermented bread. Cereal Chem. 102:102-116. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1002/cche.10821">https://doi.org/10.1002/cche.10821</a>   Norton, A.E., Kim, M.J., Peiris, K.H.S., Cox, S., Tilley, M., Smolensky, D., Bean, S.R. 2024. Synthesis and characterization of gold nanoparticles using cereal by-products with varying levels of phenolics. Online <a href="https://doi.org/10.1002/cche.10840">https://doi.org/10.1002/cche.10840</a>   Objective 2 Publications   Regonda, B., Luthra, K., January, R., & Atungulu, G*. (2024). Blend matters: Impact of blending rice cultivars on milling yield and physicochemical attributes. Cereal Chemistry. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1002/cche.10852">https://doi.org/10.1002/cche.10852</a> (in press)   Luthra, K., Mays, A., & Atungulu, G*. (2024). Review of Post-Harvest Rice Cooling for Storage in the USA. Journal of Agricultural Engineering (India), 61(5), 656-665. (Review)   Okeyo, A., Luthra, K., Vazquez, A. R., Atungulu, G. * (2024). Okeyo, A. A., Luthra, K., Vazquez, A. R., & Atungulu, G. G. (2024). Quality characteristic of instant rice produced using microwave‐assisted hot air drying. Cereal Chemistry, 101(3), 641-653.   Olaoni, S., Regonda, B., Luthra, K., & Atungulu, G.* (2024). Optimizing lab methods for consistent rice milling analysis. Cereal Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.1002/cche.10856 (in press)   Olaoni, S., Luthra, K., Atungulu, G.* (2024). Impact of Kernel Thickness on Germination and Vigor of Seed Rice. Applied Engineering in Agriculture. 40(1): 135-141. (doi: 10.13031/aea.15757) @2024   Luthra, K., Oduola, A., Vazquez, A. R., Atungulu, G.* (2024). A Statistical Approach to Understanding How Inter-Kernel Moisture Content Variability Affects Rice Quality. Journal of the ASABE, 67(4), 1037-1047.   Owusu, E., Luthra, K., Atungulu, G.* (2024). Material state diagrams for informed decision-making during drying of contemporary rice cultivars. Drying Technology, 42(5), 917-925. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/07373937.2024.2322110">doi.org/10.1080/07373937.2024.2322110</a>   Ouma, F., Luthra, K., Oduola, A., Atungulu, G.* (2024). Investigating safe storage conditions to mitigate aflatoxin contamination in rice. Food Control, 163, 110529. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodcont.2024.110529">doi.org/10.1016/j.foodcont.2024.110529</a>   Olaoni, S., Luthra, K., Bautista, R. C., Atungulu, G.* (2024). Impact of Fissure Location on the Germination and Vigor of Seed Rice. Journal of the ASABE. 67(3): 533-541. (doi: 10.13031/ja.15758) @2024   Owusu, E., Scott, S., Luthra, K., Graham‐Acquah, S., January, R., Annor, G. A., Atungulu, G.* (2024). Rice gelatinization temperature prediction using the rapid visco analyzer vis‐à‐vis the traditional DSC method. Cereal Chemistry, 101(3), 622-629. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1002/cche.10764">https://doi.org/10.1002/cche.10764</a> Smith, D.*, Wason, S., Atungulu, G., Bruce, R. (2024). Optimizing Radiofrequency Exposure Parameters for One-Pass Drying of High-Moisture Paddy Rice. Applied Engineering in Agriculture. 40(2). doi.org/10.13031/aea.15842   Okeyo, A., Luthra, K., Vazquez, A. R., Atungulu, G.* (2024). Quality characteristic of instant rice produced using microwave‐assisted hot air drying. Cereal Chemistry, 101(3), 641-653. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1002/cche.10770">doi.org/10.1002/cche.10770</a>   Guimaraes, B. P., Schrickel, F., Rettberg, N., Pinson, S. R., McClung, A. M., Luthra, K., Atungulu, G.... & Lafontaine, S.* (2024). Investigating the Malting Suitability and Brewing Quality of Different Rice Cultivars. Beverages, 10(1), 16. <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/beverages10010016">doi.org/10.3390/beverages10010016</a>   Modupalli, N., Galib, R. M., Sen, R., Lafontaine, S., & Rahman, M. M. (2024). Improving yield, functional properties, and aroma profile of rice bran protein through innovative extraction and precipitation methods. Journal of Cereal Science. 20: 104033.   Modupalli, N., & Rahman, M. M. (2024). Enhancing the bio-and techno-functional properties of food proteins using non-thermal plasma. Sustainable Food Proteins   Dilip, D., Modupalli, N., Rahman, M. M., & Kariyat, R. (2024). Treating rice (Oryza sativa) with atmospheric cold plasma alters plant traits and negatively affects the growth and development of Fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda). Scientific Reports.   Branstad-Spates, E., G.A. Mosher, E.L. Bowers, and C.R. Hurburgh. 2024. Qualitative approach to measuring stakeholder risk perceptions of mycotoxins in the Midwest grain supply chain. Food and Humanity, DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foohum.2024.100368">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foohum.2024.100368</a>   Branstad-Spates, E.H., L. Castano-Duque; G.A. Mosher, C. Hurburgh, K. Rajasekaran, P. Owens, Winzeler, H.E. and E. Bowers. 2024. Predicting fumonisins in Iowa corn: Gradient boosting machine learning. Cereal Chemistry. 101(6), 1261-1272. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.1002/cche.10824">https://doi.org/10.1002/cche.10824</a>   Branstad-Spates, E., G.A. Mosher, and E.L. Bowers. 2024. Risk assessment of aflatoxin in Iowa corn post-harvest using an event tree analysis: A case study. Risk Analysis, DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/risa.15074">https://doi.org/10.1111/risa.15074</a>.   Pizarro, M., G.A. Mosher, S.A. Ofosu, C.R. Hurburgh, and E.L. Bowers. 2024. Cost estimation model for isolation and segregation of non-genetically modified corn and soybeans at country grain elevators. Cereal Chemistry. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org10.1002/cche.10859">https://doi.org10.1002/cche.10859</a>   Advanced Grain Elevator Operations Management Short Course, Grain & Feed Association of Illinois (GFAI), Bloomington, Illinois, June 17-21, 2024. (Sabbir: 1 lecture; 2 hands-on sessions)   Sabbir, A.S.M.Y.B., Maier, D.E., and Rosentrater, K. Estimating Environmental Impacts of a Grain Elevator by using Life Cycle Assessment. ASABE 2024 Annual International Meeting, Anaheim, CA, July 28-31, 2024. (presenter)   Advanced Grain Elevator Operations Management Short Course, Agribusiness Association of Iowa (AAI), Ames, Iowa, August 5-9, 2024. (Sabbir: 1 lecture; 2 hands-on sessions)   Lambros, A. and Maier, D.E. Assessment and Modeling of Thermal Processes for Improved Process Optimization in Animal Feed Manufacturing. ASABE 2024 Annual International Meeting, Anaheim, CA, July 28-31, 2024. (Lambros: presenter)   Tenboer, H.H., G.A. Mosher, and C.R. Hurburgh. 2023. “A quantitative model to characterize and measure granular flow behavior and grain layer mixing”. Applied Engineering in Agriculture, 39(6), 605-615. Doi:  <a href="https://doi.org/10.13031/aea.15544">https://doi.org/10.13031/aea.15544</a>   Tenboer, H.H. Analysis of methods for enhancing food safety and traceability in the bulk grain industry. Doctoral dissertation, Iowa State University, August 2024.   Ramadan, G.R.M., Mosallam, E. M., Phillips, T. W. 2024. Methyl benzoate and its derivative, acetophenone, as fumigants to control stored product insects. Journal of Stored Product Research 105: 102248.   Smith, S. W., Zhang, X., Little. E. M., Coatney, A., Tang, G., Phillips, T. W., Schilling, M. W. 2024. Inhibiting Tyrophagus putrescentiae orientation to and reproduction on dry cured hams: The impact of acetic acid-treated ham nets. Journal of Stored Product Research 105: 102257.   Sserunjogi, M., C.J. Bern, T.J. Brumm, D.E. Maier and T.W. Phillips. 2024. Mechanical stirring of bulk-stored maize in steel bins to suppress maize weevils and other beetle populations. Journal of Stored Product Research 106: 102281.   Selladurai, M., Bh. Subramanyam, and K. Siliveru. 2024. Efficacy of two amorphous silica powders applied to soft red winter wheat against the lesser grain borer, Rhyzopertha dominica (F.) (Coleoptera: Bostrichidae). Journal of Stored Products Research, 106, 102264.   Manivannan, S., Subramanyam, Bh. 2023. Contact toxicity of two amorphous diatomaceous earth powders against the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae). Insects 14, 833.   Manivannan, S., Subramanyam, Bh. 2023. Contact toxicity of two candidate diatomaceous earths against the lesser grain borer, Rhyzopertha dominica (F.) (Coleoptera: Bostrichidae). Journal of Stored Products Research 104, 10222.   Manivannan, S., Subramanyam, Bh. 2023. Suitability of different soybean substrates and a laboratory diet on the development of Indian meal moth, Plodia Interpunctella (Hübner) Lepidoptera: Pyralidae). Modern Concepts and Developments in Agronomy 13, MCDA.000807.2023, 1258-1262.   Control in stored commodities. 12th Conference on Controlled Atmospheres and Fumigation in Stored Products (CAF2024), Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, August 18-23.   Buenavista, R., M. Selladurai, E. Xinyi, K. Siliveru and B. Subramanyam. 2024. Chlorine dioxide for insect and pathogen control in stored commodities. In D. S. Jayas (ed), Control and Management of Pests in Stored Products. CRC Press (Taylor & Francis Group). ISBN: 978-1-003-30988-8.   Phillips, T.W. D. W. Hagstrum. 2024. Stored-Product Insects: Biology and Management Relevant to Controlled Atmospheres and Fumigation. Pp. 1-37. In: Jayas, D. ed. “Control and Management of Pests in Stored Products. CRC Press, Taylor and Francis Group. New York.   The Impact of Nitrogen Fertilization on the Amino Acid Profile, Protein Secondary Structure, and Bread Properties of Intermediate Wheatgrass (Thinopyrum intermedium). Under review in Journal of Cereal Science   Effect Of Nitrogen Treatment on The Chemical and Functional Properties of Whole and Refined Intermediate Wheatgrass (Thinopyrum intermedium). Under review in Cereal Chemistry Journal   Impact of puffing pressure and grain moisture content on functionality of intermediate wheatgrass (Thinopyrum intermedium). Submitted to Cereal Chemistry. Under review in Journal of Cereal Science   Impact of germination time and temperature on starch viscosity properties and chemical composition of intermediate wheatgrass (Thinopyrum intermedium). Under review in Journal of Cereal Science   Valle Torres, J. Moraes, W. B., Luis, M., Duffeck M. R., Paul, P. A. 2024. Agreement in Deoxynivalenol contamination of maize grain between sampling methods. Plant Health 2024, Memphis, TN, United States. July 27-30.   Valle Torres, J. Moraes, W. B., Luis, M., Duffeck M. R., Paul, P. A. 2024. Heterogeneity of DON contamination of maize grain at multiple spatial scales. Plant Health 2024, Memphis, TN, United States. July 27-30.   Kikway, I.,  Mideros, S., Andersen Onofre, K., De Wolf, E., Padgett, G., Shires, M., Collins, A., Esker, P., Cowger, C., Friskop, A., Rawat, N., Chilvers, M., Darby, H., Koehler, A., Marshall, J. M., Higgins, D., Bish, M., Wegulo, S., Smith, D., Telenko, D., Young-Kelly, H., Bradley, C., Madden, L., and Paul, P. A. 2024. Comparative Assessment of new Fungicides for Fusarium head blight (FHB) and Deoxynivalenol (DON) Management in Wheat. Plant Health 2024, Memphis, TN, United States. July 27-30.   Kikway, I.,  Collins, A., Koehler, A., Friskop, A., Bradley, C., Cowger, C., Smith, D., Telenko, D., Higgins, D., Padgett, G., Darby, H., Young-Kelly, H., Marshall, J. M., Andersen Onofre, K., Shires, M., Bish, M., Chilvers, M., Rawat, N., Esker, P., Mideros, S., Wegulo, S., and Paul, P. A. 2024. Fusarium Head Blight Management Coordinated Project: Integrated Management Trials 2024. National Fusarium Head Blight Forum, Austin TX, United States. Dec 8-10.   Kikway, I.,  Collins, A., Koehler, A., Friskop, A., Bradley, C., Cowger, C., Smith, D., Telenko, D., Higgins, D., Padgett, G., Darby, H., Young-Kelly, H., Marshall, J. M., Andersen Onofre, K., Shires, M., Bish, M., Chilvers, M., Rawat, N., Esker, P., Mideros, S., Wegulo, S., and Paul, P. A. 2024. Fusarium Head Blight Management Coordinated Project: Uniform Fungicide Trials 2024. National Fusarium Head Blight Forum, Austin TX, United States. Dec 8-10.   Objective 3 Publications   Akoto, Y. E. and Maier, D. E. 2023. Feed Mills’ Challenges with Multiple Food Safety Management Systems (MFSMS). Advances in Food and Technology Poster Symposium. Iowa State University, April 21, Ames. IA.   Akoto, Y. E. and Maier, D. E. 2023. A critical review of mechanisms of drug carryover and cleaning procedures in feed manufacturing as a function of drug properties and equipment design. ASABE Annu. Mtg Prog. Book, July 9-12, Omaha. NE.   Cochran Fellow Training Course, Iowa State University Kent Feed Mill and Grain Science Complex (U.S.), U.S. Grains Council, September 18-22, 2023 (Akoto: 2 lectures, 1 hands-on training).   Advanced Feed Manufacturing Industry Training Program-SSA DDGs Team, Iowa State University Kent Feed Mill and Grain Science Complex (U.S.), U.S. Grains Council, May 7-8, 2024 (Akoto: 2 lectures).   Animal Industry Committee Meeting, Iowa State University Kent Feed Mill and Grain Science Complex (U.S.), Agri-Business Association of Iowa, June 25, 2024 (Akoto: 1 lecture)

Impact Statements

• Grain Quality and Testing: NC-213 researchers developed non-destructive NIR spectroscopy tools for analyzing corn and soybean composition. These tools reduce the need for traditional lab methods and make testing more accessible for producers and researchers across regions.
• Grain Storage Management: Research identified how corn susceptibility to spoilage changes throughout the year, helping storage operators better manage insect pressures, moisture, and gas buildup. This has led to improved safety and efficiency in grain storage.
• Food Safety Innovations: A portable optical sensing system was developed for rapid detection of aflatoxins in food and feed. Its speed and accuracy offer a cost-effective solution to monitor contamination and protect public health.
• International Development: In Ghana, NC-213 researchers evaluated shea butter processing systems and identified that scalable mechanization can improve income potential for rural producers and help them access premium markets.
• Wheat Quality Assurance: Studies on wheat flour quality led to the identification of new testing methods using supplemental SRC values and Glutopeak instruments. These approaches ensure continued quality assessment in the absence of outdated technologies.
• Functional Food Development: Hemp seeds were found to have high antioxidant activity, encouraging their use in developing foods that may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• Equipment Design Support: NC-213 researchers collaborated with engineers and manufacturers to develop a device for measuring pressure in grain bins, aiding the design of safer, more effective storage systems.
• Sorghum Utilization: Research linking sorghum grain chemistry to end-use quality supports breeders, growers, and food companies in improving sorghum products and expanding market opportunities.
• At the University of Arkansas, researchers partnered with grain producers, processors, and engineers to evaluate equilibrium moisture content (EMC)-based in-bin drying systems. Through field experiments, simulations, and sensor technology, the team answered critical questions regarding the quality degradation, mycotoxin development, and energy savings potential in rice drying and storage systems. Their work resulted in a validated simulation platform for natural air in-bin drying, practical for Arkansas-specific conditions. Charts were produced to guide fan control strategies and storage practices based on harvest conditions, enhancing engineering and management practices for high-quality grain storage.
• Iowa State University collaborated with USDA researchers in New Orleans to analyze state-specific patterns in fumonisin contamination in corn. This work revealed surprising differences in predictive factors between Iowa and Illinois, despite their agronomic similarities. One publication emerged from this partnership, improving the industry's ability to forecast mycotoxin presence across U.S. corn-growing regions and enabling more informed mitigation efforts.
• In response to producer demand for non-GMO feed ingredients, Iowa State researchers investigated the economic and logistical feasibility of minimizing adventitious presence (AP) of GM grain. Using Monte Carlo simulations, the team found that segregating non-GM corn and soybeans typically increased costs by 3–4 cents per bushel. These findings help quantify the real-world trade-offs and support decision-making in supply chains aiming to deliver verified non-GM products.
• Iowa State researchers also advanced thermal processing efficiency by collecting extensive steam and mash data at the ISU feed mill. Sensor retrofits allowed measurement of steam losses, temperature, and moisture through each stage of feed processing. The results showed steam utilization efficiencies averaging over 70%, with minimal energy losses. Recommendations included system enhancements, such as installing rotary airlocks to improve heat retention between stages. This work sets the foundation for automating thermal processing in feed manufacturing, improving sustainability and precision.
• In studies of grain flow and traceability, Iowa State researchers created and repeatedly tested a benchtop flow model to track grain movement during discharge from storage bins. Using both uniform particles and actual corn and soybeans, experiments demonstrated consistent last-in-first-out (LIFO) flow patterns, with corn showing more distinct flow peaks. These insights are critical for understanding contamination risk and quality segregation in bulk grain handling.
• At Kansas State University, a team explored chlorine dioxide as a novel fumigant for stored grain pest control. Due to its higher hazard profile compared to traditional fumigants, researchers developed an active treatment protocol integrated into the grain receiving process. Preliminary tests using 50-lb batches confirmed chlorine dioxide’s efficacy against common grain pests, offering a possible path forward for safer and scalable fumigant delivery.
• Additional Kansas State research evaluated alternative fumigants—methyl benzoate (MB) and acetophenone (AP)—against pests like the lesser grain borer, rice weevil, and red flour beetle. While both compounds exhibited significant toxicity to adult and immature insect stages, they were not fully effective against mixed life stage infestations, likely due to lower gas concentrations and larval tolerance. Still, their inhibition of acetylcholine esterase suggests potential for development as biologically active grain protectants.
• To meet the growing demand for residue-free grain protection, Kansas State researchers also tested amorphous silica powders as insecticides. One powder, applied at 0.20 g/kg, resulted in nearly 100% adult mortality and significantly reduced progeny production and grain damage. The second powder achieved complete mortality and outperformed the first, due to higher oil adsorption and low pH. These findings support expanded use of diatomaceous earth alternatives for effective and residue-free pest control.
• New guidelines for rice harvest and drying have been widely adopted, reducing discoloration and preserving quality across 15+ million bushels. Nearly 100 growers now use EMC-based sensors for automated bin monitoring.
• New simulations improve detection and traceability of contaminated grain in storage, enhancing safety and recall procedures.
• Research supports food-grade applications of Intermediate Wheatgrass through strategic nitrogen use, aiding its market development as a sustainable grain.
• Studies show combine-sampling yields more consistent DON estimates than hand-sampling, informing future FHB and DON management guidelines.
• Research is improving soybean storage guidance under high-temperature, high-humidity conditions, especially for low-latitude regions.
• Innovations in radio-frequency processing help convert corn fiber into health-focused supplements and feed products, boosting Indiana corn’s market value.
• Early success in granulating Spent Brewer’s Grains points to potential new feed options, with further research planned on binders and microbiological safety.
• Researchers at Iowa State University completed a comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) of the U.S. corn wet milling industry, filling a critical knowledge gap with up-to-date environmental impact data for HFCS55 and other co-products. The study identified a potential 20% reduction in environmental impact if coal is replaced by natural gas in cogeneration systems.
• Commissioned and operationalized the Iowa State University (ISU) Kent Feed Mill and Grain Science Complex, a state-of-the-art facility featuring a self-contained feed manufacturing tower, pilot plant, warehouse, quality lab, classroom, and a full grain handling center. This facility supports ISU’s missions in research, teaching, service, extension, and global industry engagement.
• Launched the “Training the Next Generation of Leaders for a Transforming Grain Industry” project, establishing a scholar cohort across six institutions. The group participates in bi-weekly seminars on grain and feed handling and processing, and a Master of Science program is under development for a 2025 rollout.
• The life cycle assessment increased industry and academic understanding of environmental impacts tied to HFCS55 production. The findings support future efforts to enhance sustainability across the corn wet milling supply chain.
• The ISU Feed Mill served as a hub for international collaboration and industry training, empowering professionals from across the globe with practical knowledge and certifications in feed safety, operations management, and quality assurance.
• The “Training the Next Generation” initiative is cultivating future experts by building a shared curriculum and institutional network to offer a cross-institutional graduate program in grain and feed systems, responding to long-term workforce needs in the sector.