WO2018118388A1

WO2018118388A1 - Oat hull fiber products

Info

Publication number: WO2018118388A1
Application number: PCT/US2017/064419
Authority: WO
Inventors: Steven Kingsley
Original assignee: Invention Development Management Company, Llc
Priority date: 2016-12-23
Filing date: 2017-12-04
Publication date: 2018-06-28

Abstract

This disclosure is drawn, inter alia, to methods, systems, products, devices, and/or apparatus generally related to oat hull fiber products. The oat hull fiber products can include a plurality of coated oat hull fibers. An example method of forming coated oat hull fibers can include treating oat hulls in a first solution to remove at least some of lignin or silica from the oat hulls. The method can also include removing at least some of the first solution from the oat hulls. Additionally, the method can include mixing a second solution with the oat hulls to form a slurry. The second solution can include trehalose. The method can also include ultrasonicating the slurry to at least partially coat the plurality of oat hulls with the trehalose and reduce the average particle size of the oat hulls, thereby forming coated oat hull fibers.

Description

OAT HULL FIBER PRODUCTS

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/438,672 filed on 23 December 2016, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein, in its entirety, by this reference.

BACKGROUND

[002] Some dietary supplements include psyllium due to its high fiber content. However, psyllium is only grown in selected regions of the world, thereby limiting global supply of psyllium and increasing the cost of psyllium.

[003] Oat hulls are a natural source of fiber. Globally, it is estimated that 14.28 million pounds of oat hulls are produced annually. There is currently limited demand for the oat hulls and, therefore, are a relatively low cost material.

[004] As such, producers of dietary supplements are researching alternatives to psyllium to alleviate the strains on the global supply of psyllium. Similarly, producers of oat hulls are researching new uses for oat hulls.

SUMMARY

[005] Techniques are generally described that include methods and systems. An example method of forming a plurality of coated oat hull fibers includes treating a plurality of oat hulls in a first solution to remove at least some of lignin or silica from the plurality of oat hulls. The method also includes removing at least some of the first solution from the plurality of oat hulls. Additionally, the method includes mixing a second solution with the plurality of oat hulls to form a slurry. The second solution comprises trehalose. The method also includes ultrasonicating the slurry to at least partially coat the plurality of oat hulls with the trehalose and reduce the average particle size of the plurality of oat hulls to form a plurality of at least partially coated oat hulls.

[006] An example of an oat hull fiber product disclosed. The oat hull fiber product includes a plurality of coated oat hulls fibers. The plurality of coated oat hull fibers includes a plurality of oat hull fibers exhibiting a lower concentration of lignin and silica than unprocessed oat hull fibers. The plurality of oat hull fibers is present in about 40 weight % or greater of the oat hull fiber product. The plurality of coated oat hull fibers also includes trehalose at least partially coating at least some of the plurality of oat hull fibers. The trehalose is present in the plurality of coated oat hull fibers in an amount less than the plurality of oat hull fibers.

[007] An example of a plurality of coated oat hull fibers are disclosed. The plurality of coated oat hull fibers includes a plurality of oat hull fibers exhibiting a lower concentration of lignin and silica than unprocessed oat hulls. Additionally, the plurality of coated oat hull fibers includes trehalose at least partially coating the plurality of oat hull fibers. The trehalose is present in the plurality of coated oat hull fibers in a range from about 30 weight % or less.

[008] An example system for forming a plurality of coated oat hull fibers are disclosed. The system includes at least one container that is configured to hold a plurality of oat hulls, at least one first solution, and at least one second solution. The system also includes at least one oat hull source that comprises the plurality of oat hulls therein and is configured to dispense at least some of the plurality of oat hulls into the at least one container. Additionally, the system includes at least one first solution source that comprises the at least one first solution therein and is positioned and configured to dispense at least some of the at least one first solution into the at least one container. The at least one first solution includes at least one diluent and at least one basic component. The system further includes at least one second solution source that comprises the at least one second solution therein and is positioned and configured to dispense at least one the at least one second solution into the at least one container. The at least one second solution comprises trehalose. The system also includes at least one solution removal device that is configured to remove at least one the at least one first solution from the at least one container. The system also includes at least one mixer that is configured to mix the plurality of oat hulls, the at least one first solution, or the at least one second solution when the plurality of oat hulls, the at least one first solution, or the at least one second solution is in the at least one container. The at least one mixer comprises at least one ultrasonic driver.

[009] Features from any of the disclosed embodiments may be used in combination with one another, without limitation. In addition, other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art through consideration of the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings.

[010] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[Oil] The foregoing and other features of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only several examples in accordance with the disclosure and are, therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope, the disclosure will be described with additional specificity and detail through use of the accompanying drawings, in which:

[012] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of packaging that holds an oat hull fiber product therein, according to at least some examples;

[013] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of one of the plurality of coated oat hull fibers that form at least a portion of the oat hull fiber product illustrated in FIG. 1, according to at least some examples;

[014] FIG. 3 is a flow chart illustrating a method of forming the plurality of coated oat hull fibers illustrated in FIG. 2, according to at least one example;

[015] FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a system that is configured to perform at least some blocks of FIG. 3, according to at least some examples;

[016] FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of one of the coated oat hull fibers of the oat hull fiber product of FIG. 1 that includes at least one of the one or more probiotics, according to at least some examples;

[017] FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating a method of forming the plurality of coated oat hull fibers illustrated in FIG. 5, according to at least one example;

[018] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating an example computing device that is configured to be used as a controller, according to at least some examples; and

[019] FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating an example computer program product that is arranged to store instructions for determining when to control the one or more components of the system, according to at least some examples. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[020] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative examples described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other examples may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the Figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are implicitly contemplated herein.

[021] This disclosure is drawn, inter alia, to methods, systems, products, devices, and/or apparatus generally related to oat hull fiber products. The oat hull fiber products can include a plurality of coated oat hull fibers. An example method of forming the coated oat hull fibers can include treating a plurality of oat hulls in a first solution to remove at least some of lignin or silica from the of oat hulls. The method can also include removing at least some of the first solution from the oat hulls. Additionally, the method can include mixing a second solution with the plurality of oat hulls to form a slurry. The second solution can include trehalose. The method can also include ultrasonicating the slurry to at least partially coat the plurality of oat hulls with the trehalose and reduce the average particle size of the plurality of oat hulls, thereby forming a plurality of coated oat hull fibers. Coating the plurality of oat hulls with the trehalose and reducing the size of the plurality of oat hulls can improve the texture and shelf life of the oat hull fiber products along with, in some examples, acting as one or more of a sweetener or maintaining the moisture content of the coated oat hull fibers.

[022] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of packaging 102 that holds an oat hull fiber product 104 therein, according to at least some examples. The oat hull fiber product 104 includes one or more sources of dietary fiber. At least one of the sources of dietary fiber includes a plurality of coated oat hull fibers (e.g. , coated oat hull fibers 212, 512 of FIGS. 2 and 5).

[023] The packaging 102 includes an inner surface 106 that defines a chamber 108. The oat hull fiber product 104 is initially disposed in the chamber 108. The packaging 102 can provide a moisture free or substantially moisture free environment in the chamber 108 because at least a portion of the oat hull fiber product 104 (e.g., the coated oat hull fibers) are hydroscopic. As such, the packaging 102 can include a substantially moisture impermeable barrier that forms an air tight container. The packaging 102 can also be configured to be reversibly opened and closed. For example, the packaging 102 can include a lid 110 that allows the packaging to be reversibly opened and closed.

[024] As previously discussed, the oat hull fiber product 104 includes one or more sources of dietary fiber. For example, the sources of dietary fiber can only include coated oat hull fibers or can include coated oat hull fibers and one or more additional sources of dietary fiber. The one or more additional sources of dietary fiber can include psyllium, a lignin-based component, another cellulose-based component, a pectin-based component, a gum-based component, etc.

[025] The coated oat hull fibers can form at least about 40 weight %, at least about 50 weight %, at least about 60 weight %, or at least about 70 weight % of the oat hull fiber product 104 to ensure that the oat hull fiber product 104 includes sufficient dietary fiber. For example, the coated oat hull fibers can form about 40 weight % to about 60 weight %, about 50 weight % to about 70 weight %, or about 60 weight % to about 80 weight % of the oat hull fiber product 104. The coated oat hull fibers can be the largest source of dietary fiber when coated oat hull fibers form at least 40 weight % of the oat hull fiber product 104. However, it is understood that the coated oat hull fibers can form less than 40 weight % of the oat hull fiber product. For example, the coated oat hull fibers can form less than 40 weight % of the oat hull fiber product 104 when the oat hull fiber product 104 includes one or more additional sources of dietary fiber (e.g. , the coated oat hull fibers and the one or more additional sources of dietary fiber form at least 40 weight % of the oat hull fiber product 104).

[026] The oat hull fiber product 104 can also include one or more additional components that are not a significant source of fiber. The one or more additional components can be configured to provide one or more of additional nutritional benefits, improve the texture of the oat hull fiber product 104, improve the taste of the oat hull fiber product 104, increase the volume or density of the oat hull fiber product 104, or improve the appearance of the oat hull fiber product 104. For example, additional components can include one or more of additional sweeteners, such as one or more of sweeteners that are distinct from the coated oat hull fibers (e.g., aspartame), flavoring (e.g., orange flavor, citric acid, etc.), probiotic strains (e.g., Bacillus coagulans, Lactobacillus plantarum, etc.), food dyes (e.g., yellow 6), vitamins, mineral, yeast, or fillers (e.g. , maltodextrin).

[027] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of one of the plurality of coated oat hull fibers 212 that form at least a portion of the oat hull fiber product 104 illustrated in FIG. 1, according to at least some examples. Each of the coated oat hull fibers 212 includes an oat hull fiber 214 that is the primary source of dietary fiber in the coated oat hull fibers 212. As will be discussed in more detail in relation to FIG. 3, the oat hull fibers 214 has been processed to improve the texture thereof. As used herein, each of the oat hull fibers 214 can include a single oat hull fiber or a plurality of oat hull fibers. Each of the coated oat hull fibers 212 also includes a trehalose coating 216 that at least partially coats the oat hull fibers 214. The trehalose coating 216 includes trehalose. In an example, the trehalose coating 216 can completely or substantially completely coat the oat hull fibers 214. The trehalose coating 216 primarily improves the texture of the coated oat hull fibers 212. However, the trehalose coating 216 can also act as one or more of a sweetener, maintain the moisture content of the coated oat hull fibers 212, or improve the storage life of the oat hull fiber product.

[028] The coated oat hull fibers 212 exhibit an average particle size that is less than about 850 μιη. For example, the coated oat hull fibers 212 can exhibit an average particle size in ranges from less than about 800 μιτι, less than about 500 μιτι, less than about 200 μιτι, less than about 150 μιτι, less than about 100 μιτι, less than about 50 μιτι, less than about 20 μιτι, less than about 10 μιτι, less than about 5 μιτι, about 500 μιτι to about 800 μιτι, about 150 μιτι to about 500 μιτι, about 100 μιτι to about 200 μιτι, about 50 μιτι to about 150 μιτι, about 25 μιτι to about 100 μιτι, about 10 μιτι to about 50 μιτι, about 1 μιτι to about 15 μιτι, or about 2 μιτι to about 10 μιτι. Coated oat hull fibers 212 that exhibit a particle size that are less than 850 μιτι allow the oat hull fiber product to exhibit a satisfactory texture. In particular, further reducing the average particle size of the coated oat hull fibers 212 to less than about 200 μιτι or less than about 150 μιτι significantly improves the texture of the oat hull fiber product that includes coated oat hull fibers 212.

[029] The coated oat hull fibers 212 can exhibit a moisture content of about 1 weight % to about 12 weight %, such as about 2 weight % to about 4 weight %. The low moisture content can sterilize the coated oat hull fibers 212 and prolonging the self-life thereof. The low moisture content can also prevent caking on a surface of the coated oat hull fibers 212. [030] The coated oat hull fibers 212 can exhibit a bulk density that is about 0.6 g/cm³ to about 0.8 g/cm³, such as about 0.65 g/cm³ to about 0.75 g/cm³. The bulk density can be varied based on the moisture content of the coated oat hull fibers 212, the average particle size of the coated oat hull fibers 212, the relative amount of oat hull fibers 214 relative to the amount of the trehalose coating 216, etc.

[031] The oat hull fibers 214 can be processed to improve the texture thereof. For example, the oat hull fibers 214 can be processed to remove at least some of the lignin or silica that are present in unprocessed (e.g. , natural) oat hulls. As such, the oat hull fibers 214 can exhibit a lower concentration of lignin or silica than unprocessed oat hull fibers. Additionally, the oat hull fibers 214 can be processed such that some of the oat hull fibers 214 are soluble in water (e.g. , forms a gel when mixed with water) and some of the oat hull fibers 214 are water insoluble. The soluble fibers improve the texture of the coated oat hull fibers 212, protect the heart, control diabetes, and act as a thickener that slows digestion. The insoluble fibers can improve weight loss and digestive health.

[032] In an example, the oat hull fibers 214 can include soluble fibers in a range from about 48 weight % to about 52 weight % and the remainder of the oat hull fibers 214 can include insoluble fibers. In such an example, about 50 % to about 80 % of the cellulose and hemicellulose present in the plurality of oat hull fibers 214 can be soluble. It is currently believed by the inventor that oat hull fibers 214 that include soluble fibers in a range from about 48 weight % to about 52 weight % are suitable for most applications. However, in other examples, the oat hull fibers 214 can include less than 48 weight % soluble fibers or greater than about 52 weight % soluble fibers, depending on the application thereof. For example, the oat hull fibers 214 can include greater than about 52 weight % soluble fibers when the oat hull fiber product 104 (FIG. 1) is configured to promote heart health or control diabetes. In another example, the oat hull fibers 214 can include less than about 48 weight % soluble fibers when the oat hull fiber product 104 is configured to promote weight loss or digestive health.

[033] The trehalose coating 216 forms less than 40 weight % of the coated oat hull fibers 212. For example, the trehalose coating 216 can form less than about 30 weight %, less than about 25 weight %, less than about 20 weight %, about 1 weight % to about 5 weight %, about 5 weight % to about 10 weight %, about 10 weight % to about 15 weight %, or about 15 weight % to about 20 weight %, of the coated oat hull fibers 212. As such, the amount of the trehalose coating is less than the amount of the oat hull fibers 214. The amount of the trehalose coating 216 can be sufficient for the trehalose coating 216 to improve the texture of the coated oat hull fibers 212. Additionally, the amount of the trehalose coating 216 can be sufficient to completely coat or substantially completely coat the oat hull fibers 214. The trehalose coating 216 can maintain the moisture content of the coated oat hull fibers 212 when the trehalose coats substantially all of the oat hull fibers 214. It is noted that increasing the amount of the trehalose coating 216 can increase the viscosity of the coated oat hull fibers 212 during processing. As such, in an example, the amount of the trehalose coating 216 is less than about 25 weight % or, more particularly, less than about 20 weight % to prevent the coated oat hull fibers 212 from exhibiting a relatively high viscosity during processing.

[034] FIG. 3 is a flow chart illustrating a method 300 of forming the plurality of coated oat hull fibers 212 illustrated in FIG. 2, according to at least one example. An example method may include one or more operations, functions or actions as illustrated by one or more of blocks 305, 310, 315, and/or 320. The operations described in the blocks 305, 310, 315, and 320 may be performed responsive to execution (such as by one or more processors described herein) of computer-executable instructions stored in a computer- readable medium, such as a computer-readable medium of a computing device or some other controller similarly configured.

[035] An example process may begin with block 305, which recites "treating a plurality of oat hulls in a first solution to remove at least some lignin or silica from the plurality of oat hulls." Block 305 may be followed by block 310, which recites "removing at least some of the first solution from the plurality of oat hulls." Block 310 may be followed by block 315, which recites "mixing a second solution with the plurality of oat hulls to form a slurry, the second solution including trehalose." Block 315 may be followed by block 320, which recites "ultrasonicating the slurry to at least partially coat the plurality of oat hulls with the trehalose and reduce the average particle size of the plurality of oat hulls."

[036] The blocks included in the described example methods are for illustration purposes. In some examples, the blocks may be performed in a different order. In some other examples, various blocks may be eliminated. In still other examples, various blocks may be divided into additional blocks, supplemented with other blocks, or combined together into fewer blocks. Other variations of these specific blocks are contemplated, including changes in the order of the blocks, changes in the content of the blocks being split or combined into other blocks, etc. In some examples, the method 300 can include drying the slurry.

[037] Block 305 recites, "treating a plurality of oat hulls in a first solution to remove at least some lignin or silica from the plurality of oat hulls." The oat hulls are the precursors to the oat hull fibers 214 of FIG. 2. Unprocessed oat hulls are generally insoluble and include lignin and silica. The lignin and the silica (e.g. , silica spicules) provide an unsatisfactory texture (e.g. , gritty texture). As such, in an example, treating the plurality of oat hulls can form soluble fibers and remove at least some of the lignin or silica from the oat hulls to improve the texture of the resulting product (e.g. , the coated oat hull fibers, the oat hull fiber product). In an example, treating the oat hulls in the first solution includes removing substantially all of the lignin or silica from the oat hulls.

[038] In an example, block 305 includes partially digesting the oat hulls using the first solution. As such, the first solution can include any solution that digests the oat hulls, such as a solution that preferentially digests lignin and silica relative to the cellulose and hemicellulose. In an example, block 305 includes breaking down long-chain cellulose into cellodextrin or another soluble form of cellulose. As such, the first solution can include any solution that can break down long-chain cellulose.

[039] In an example, the first solution includes an aqueous alkaline solution. Under certain conditions, aqueous alkaline solution can treat the oat hulls (e.g. , partially digest the oat hulls, preferentially digest the lignin and silica, or break down long-chain cellulose). The aqueous alkaline can include at least one diluent (e.g. , water) mixed with at least one basic component to form a basic solution. The basic component can include at least one of alkali metal, an alkali metal hydroxide, a alkali metal oxide, an alkaline rare earth metal, a, alkaline rare earth metal hydroxide, an alkaline rare earth metal oxide, or a salt or an alkali metal or alkaline rare earth metal. For example, the aqueous solution can include water mixed with at least one of sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide. In another example, the aqueous solution can include water mixed with at least one of sodium oxide, potassium oxide, calcium hydroxide, or calcium oxide.

[040] One example for the first solution, in combination with ground oat hulls, includes 82.90 w/w % water, 12.00 w/w % ground oat hulls, 5.10 w/w % NaOH powder. In such an example, the sodium hydroxide is dissolved in the water first and the ground oat hulls are fully dispersed next in the resulting 5% sodium hydroxide solution with a molarity of 1.451M. The pH of this slurry ranges in a range from about 12.5 to about 13. [041] In an example, the first solution can exhibit a pH selected to treat the oat hull. The selected pH can be about 1 1 to about 14, such as about 12 to about 13. The first solution can, for example, digest the oat hulls (e.g. , preferentially digest the lignin and silica) when the first solution exhibits a pH of about 1 1 to about 14. To obtain such a pH, the first solution can include less than about 15 weight % of the basic component. For example, the amount of the basic component present in the first solution can be about 0.5 weight % to about 5 weight %, about 4 weight % to about 5 weight %, about 5 weight % to about 10 weight %, less than about 15 weight %, less than about 10 weight %, or less than about 5 weight %. For example, the amount of sodium hydroxide present in the first solution can be less than about 10 weight %, such as about 4 weight % to about 5 weight %. It is noted that the amount of the basic component can be greater than about 15 weight %. However, increasing the concentration of the basic component will increase the amount of cellulose or hemicellulose digested by the first solution. As such, in an example, the first solution can include a concentration of the basic component that will result in a yield of at least 25 % of the oat hulls, under certain operation conditions (e.g. , pressure, temperature, or time).

[042] Block 305 includes disposing the oat hulls and the first solution in any suitable container (e.g. , container 420 of FIG. 4). For example, the container can include any container that can hold the oat hulls and the first solution therein without being significantly damaged by the first solution. In an example, the oat hulls and the first solution can be added at separate times. For example, the oat hulls can be disposed in the container before or after the first solution is disposed in the container. In an example, the oat hulls and the first solution can be disposed substantially simultaneously into the container. In an example, the mass of the first solution disposed in the container can be at least 2 times greater than the mass of the oat hulls, such as about 2 times, about 3 times, about 4 times, about 5 times, about 6 times, about 8 times, about 10 times, about 12 times, about 14 times, about 15 times, about 20 times, about 30 times, about 40 times, or about 50 times.

[043] In an example, treating the oat hulls in a first solution can include subjecting the oat hulls and the first solution at a selected pressure and a selected temperature. The selected pressure and the selected temperature can be selected to increase or decrease (1) the time that the oat hulls are treated in the first solution, (2) the amount of lignin or silica removed from the oat hulls, or (3) the yield of the oat hulls. For example, the selected pressure can be equal to or greater than about 100 kPa (e.g. , 1 atmosphere) such as greater than about 150 kPa, greater than about 500 kPa, greater than about 1 MPa, about 100 kPa to about 175 kPa, about 150 kPa to about 500 kPa, about 400 kPa to about 800 kPa, about 750 kPa to about 1 MPa, about 1.0 MPa to about 1.5 MPa, or about 1.5 MPa to about 2.0 MPa. In an example, the container can be pressured before or after the oat hulls or the first solution are dispensed therein. Increasing or decreasing the pressure applied to the oat hulls and the first solution can affect the time that the oat hulls are treated in the first solution, the amount of lignin or silica removed from the oat hulls, or the yield of oat hulls. In another example, the selected temperature can be equal to or greater than about 100 °C, such as greater than about 150 °C, greater than about 200 °C, about 100 °C to about 150 °C, about 150 °C to about 175 °C, about 170 °C to about 200 °C, about 200 °C to about 225 °C, or about 225 °C to about 250 °C. The container that includes the oat hulls and the first solution can be heated to the temperature before or after the oat hulls or the first solution are dispensed therein. Increasing or decreasing the temperature applied to the oat hulls and the first solution can affect the time that the oat hulls are treated in the first solution, the amount of lignin or silica removed from the oat hulls, or the yield of oat hulls.

[044] In an example, the oat hulls can be treated in the first solution for about 1 minute to about 1 week, such as about 1 minute to about 15 minutes, about 10 minutes to about 30 minutes, about 30 minutes to about 1 hour, about 1 hour to about 2 hours, about 2 hours to about 6 hours, about 6 hours to about 12 hours, about 12 hours to about 1 day, about 1 day to about 2 days, or about 2 days to about 7 days. The time that the oat hulls are treated in the first solution can be varied depending on the amount of the basic component present in the first solution, the selected temperature applied to the oat hulls and the first solution, or the selected pressure applied to the oat hulls and the first solution.

[045] In an example, treating the oat hulls in the first solution includes mixing the oat hulls and the first solution (e.g., in the container). The oat hulls and the first solution can be mixed using any suitable method. For example, the oat hulls and the first solution can be mixed using a magnetic stirrer, an in-line mixer, a mixer inserted into the container, an ultrasonic driver, turbulent flow, or any other suitable mechanism. In an example, the oat hulls and the first solution are mixed using two or more methods of mixing (e.g., a magnetic stirrer and an ultrasonic driver). [046] In an example, the container can include or be coupled to an ultrasonic driver that applies ultrasonic waves to the oat hulls and the first solution. The ultrasonic driver can be configured to apply a single or dual frequency to the container. The inventor has found that applying ultrasonic waves to the oat hulls and the first solution is an effective method of mixing the oat hulls and the first solution. For example, the inventor has found that applying ultrasonic waves to the oat hulls and the first solution can decrease the time required to treat the oat hulls in the first solution by up to 80% compared to other mixing methods. The reduction in processing time may be caused by the ultrasonic driver creating a uniform and homogenous distribution of acoustical activity in the oat hulls and the first solution while avoiding stationary and standing waves such that all of the oat hulls and the first solution are fully agitated. Additionally, the reduction in the processing time may be caused by the ultrasonic waves' ability to controllably reduce the average particle size of the oat hulls thereby increasing the surface area of the oat hulls that are exposed to the first solution. For example, the ultrasonic waves can reduce the average particle size of the oat hulls to less than about 850 μιτι, such as less than about 500 μιτι, less than about 250 μιτι, less than about 100 μιτι, less than about 50 μιτι, less than about 20 μιτι, less than about 10 μιτι, or less than about 5 μιτι. The ultrasonic driver can also be used to mix the oat hulls and the first solution in an open container, a closed container, a pressurized container, autoclaves, reservoirs, pipes, at any temperature, at any viscosity, with any first solution, etc. Using an ultrasonic driver to mix the oat hulls and the first solution can also result in equipment savings, reduced labor requirements, and reduced space requirements compared to other mixing methods.

[047] In an example, block 305 can include ultrasonicating the oat hulls and the first solution at a single frequency, such as a single frequency of about 10 kHz to about 25 kHz or greater than 25 kHz. In such an example, block 305 can include ultrasonicating the oat hulls and the first solution for a time period that is greater than about 1 minute (e.g., about 2.5 minutes to about 10 minutes).

[048] In an example, block 305 can include ultrasonicating the oat hulls and the first solution at a dual or greater frequency. Ultrasonicating the oat hulls and the first solution at a dual frequency can significantly decrease the time required to perform block 305 compared to ultrasonicating the oat hulls and the first solution at a single frequency. For instance, block 305 can include ultrasonicating the oat hulls and the first solution for a time period that is less than about 1 minute, less than about 45 seconds, or less than about 30 seconds. Additionally, ultrasonicating the oat hulls and the first solution at a dual frequency can significantly decrease the average particle size of the oat hulls compared to ultrasonicating the oat hulls and the first solution at a single frequency.

[049] Ultrasonicating the oat hulls and the first solution at a dual frequency includes ultrasonicating the oat hulls and the first solution at a first frequency and a second frequency that is different than the first frequency. The first frequency can be greater than about 10 kHz, greater than about 15 kHz, greater than about 20 kHz, or in ranges of about 10 kHz to about 20 kHz, about 10 kHz to about 12 kHz, about 11 kHz to about 13 kHz, about 12 kHz to about 14 kHz, about 13 kHz to about 15 kHz, about 14 kHz to about 16 kHz, about 15 kHz to about 17 kHz, about 16 kHz to about 18 kHz, about 17 kHz to about 19 kHz, or about 10 kHz to about 20 kHz. The second frequency can be greater than the first frequency, such as greater than about 15 kHz, greater than 20 kHz, greater than 25 kHz, or in ranges of about 15 kHz to about 25 kHz, about 15 kHz to about 17 kHz, about 16 kHz to about 18 kHz, about 17 kHz to about 19 kHz, about 18 kHz to about 20 kHz, about 19 kHz to about 21 kHz, about 20 kHz to about 22 kHz, about 21 kHz to about 23 kHz, about 22 kHz to about 24 kHz, or about 23 kHz to about 25 kHz.

[050] Block 310 recites, "removing at least some of the first solution from the plurality of oat hulls." Any suitable method can be used to remove the first solution from the oat hulls. For example, the first solution can be removed from the oat hulls using vacuum filtration. In another example, the first solution can be removed from the oat hulls by washing the oat hulls with water (e.g., hot water) or another suitable liquid. In another example, the first solution can be removed from the oat hulls using a thermal drying technique. In another example, the first solution can be removed from the oat hulls using an acid (e.g. , hydrochloric acid) thereby neutralizing the first solution. In another example, the first solution can be removed from the oat hulls using a plurality of different methods (e.g. , the oat hulls are washed with water and then thermally dried). In an example, the oat hulls can form a wet fiber mass (e.g., includes a remainder of the first solution and some of the elements (e.g., water) used to remove the first solution) after the first solution is at least partially removed therefrom.

[051] In an example, removing the first solution from the oat hulls can include recycling at least some of the first solution that is removed from the oat hulls. For example, the first solution that is removed from the oat hulls can be collected (e.g., collected in a reservoir). In another example, the first solution that is removed from the oat hulls can be decanted to remove at least some of the particulates therein. The first solution can be decanted using a decanting centrifuge. In another example, the first solution that is removed from the oat hulls can be filtered to remove at least some of the particulates therein. In an example, the first solution that is recycled (e.g. , collected, decanted, or filtered) can be used to treat oat hulls (e.g. , the same oat hulls or different oat hulls).

[052] Block 315 recites, "mixing a second solution with the plurality of oat hulls to form a slurry, the second solution including trehalose." In an example, block 315 can be performed substantially simultaneously with block 305. For example, the second solution can be premixed with the first solution, disposed into the container before the first solution, disposed into the container substantially simultaneously with the first solution, or disposed in the container after the first solution. In an example, block 315 can be performed after block 305, such as after block 310. For example, the oat hulls can remain in the same container that is used in block 305 and the second solution can be added to the same container (e.g. , block 310 is performed in the same container). In another example, the oat hulls can be removed from the container that was used in block 305 (e.g. , the oat hulls can be removed from the container before, during, or after block 310) and placed in a new container. In such an example, the second solution can be mixed with the oat hulls in the new container.

[053] The second solution includes trehalose dissolved in a solvent. The solvent can include water, ethanol, methanol, or another suitable solvent. The trehalose can be dissolved in the solvent at a temperature above room temperature (e.g. , greater than 27 °C). For example, the trehalose can be dissolved in the solvent at about 45 °C to about 75 °C, such as about 55 °C to about 65 °C. The solvent can be held at a temperature above room temperature for several minutes (e.g. , 2 minutes to 30 minutes, 5 minutes to 20 minutes) while being mixed to ensure that the trehalose is dissolved in the solvent. In an example, the second solution can include trehalose dissolved in water, methanol, ethanol, or combinations thereof.

[054] One example of the second solution includes 59.14 w/w % water and 40.86 w/w % trehalose, dihydrate. In such an example, the trehalose is dissolved in the water to form a solution with a molarity of 1.08M.

[055] In an example, the trehalose is dissolved in the solvent before the second solution is mixed with the oat hulls. [056] The amount of the second solution mixed with the oat hulls is selected such that the amount of trehalose in the slurry is less than the amount of oat hulls in the slurry. Mixing an amount of trehalose with the oat hulls that is less than the amount of oat hulls in the slurry will ensure that the coated oat hull fibers formed by method 300 are a significant source of dietary fiber.

[057] The amount of the second solution (e.g. , the amount of solvent) mixed with the oat hulls can be selected such that the amount of liquid in the slurry is about 95 weight % to about 60 weight %, such as about 85 weight % to about 75 weight %. The liquid can include the at least one solvent, the remainder of the first solution that remains after block 310, any other liquid present in the oat hulls (e.g. , the water used to remove the first solution from the oat hulls). Maintaining the liquid in the slurry at about 95 weight % to about 60 weight % will ensure that the oat hulls can be easily dispersed throughout the slurry and that the slurry can be easily mixed. However, it is understood that in certain examples, the amount of the liquid can be greater than about 95 weight % or less than 60 weight %. Additionally, the amount of the second solution mixed with the oat hulls can be used to control the viscosity of the slurry. For example, the amount of solvent mixed with the oat hulls can be selected such that the slurry exhibits a viscosity of about 200 centipoise to about 1000 centipoise.

[058] The second solution can be mixed with the oat hulls using any of the mixing methods disclosed herein.

[059] Block 320 recites, "ultrasonicating the slurry to at least partially coat the plurality of oat hulls with the trehalose and reduce the average particle size of the plurality of oat hulls." Block 320 forms the coated oat hull fibers 212 of FIG. 2. In an example, block 320 can be performed substantially simultaneously with block 315. For example, blocks 315 and 320 can be performed after block 305 or block 310. In another example, blocks 315 and 320 can be performed substantially simultaneously with block 305. In such an example, the oat hulls, the first solution, and the second solution can be added to a container (e.g., added substantially simultaneously or in any order) and the oat hulls, the first solution, and the second solution can be mixed together using an ultrasonic driver. In an example, block 320 can be performed after block 315.

[060] Ultrasonicating the slurry can cause homogenization of the oat hulls and the second solution, reduce the average particle size of the oat hulls, and coat the oat hulls with the trehalose. For example, the container that includes the oat hulls and the second solution can include an ultrasonic driver attached or otherwise coupled thereto. The ultrasonic driver is configured to emit ultrasonic energy into the container. The ultrasonic energy can apply homogenous acoustical energy to the oat hulls and the second solution. The ultrasonic energy can also cause the trehalose to be completely diffused into the second solution. This allows the trehalose to at least partially coat the oat hulls. In particular, the complete diffusion of the trehalose in the slurry can allow the trehalose to completely coat the oat hulls. Similarly, the ultrasonic energy can cause the average particle size of the oat hulls to be reduced. For example, the ultrasonic energy can cause reduce the average particle size of the oat hulls to less than about 500 μιτι, and more particular, less than about 200 μιτι or less than about 150 μιτι. The complete diffusion of the trehalose can cause the trehalose to at least partially (e.g. , completely) coat the surfaces of the oat hulls that are exposed due to the reduction of the average particle size. Finally, the ultrasonic energy can cause the even distribution of the coated oat hulls in the slurry.

[061] In an example, block 320 can include ultrasonicating the slurry at a single frequency, such as a single frequency of about 10 kHz to about 25 kHz or greater than 25 kHz. In such an example, block 320 can include ultrasonicating the slurry for a time period that is greater than about 1 minute (e.g. , about 2.5 minutes to about 10 minutes). The time can be selected to result in a selected average particle size or to allow a selected percentage of the surfaces of the oat hulls to be coated with trehalose.

[062] In an example, block 320 can include ultrasonicating the slurry at a dual or greater frequency. Ultrasonicating the slurry at a dual frequency can significantly decrease the time required to perform block 320 compared to ultrasonicating the slurry at a single frequency. For instance, block 320 can include ultrasonicating the slurry for a time period that is less than about 1 minute, less than about 45 seconds, or less than about 30 seconds. The time can be selected to result in a selected average particle size or to allow a selected percentage of the surfaces of the oat hulls to be coated with trehalose. Additionally, ultrasonicating the slurry at a dual frequency can significantly decrease the average particle size of the oat hulls compared to ultrasonicating the slurry at a single frequency. For instance, ultrasonicating the slurry at a duel frequency can include decreasing the average particle size of the oat hulls to be less than about 100 μιτι, such as less than about 45 μιτι, less than about 25 μιτι, less than about 10 μιτι, or less than about 5 μιτι. [063] Ultrasonicating the slurry at a dual frequency includes ultrasonicating the slurry at a first frequency and a second frequency that is different than the first frequency. The first frequency can be greater than about 10 kHz, greater than about 15 kHz, greater than about 20 kHz, or in ranges of about 10 kHz to about 20 kHz, about 10 kHz to about 12 kHz, about 11 kHz to about 13 kHz, about 12 kHz to about 14 kHz, about 13 kHz to about 15 kHz, about 14 kHz to about 16 kHz, about 15 kHz to about 17 kHz, about 16 kHz to about 18 kHz, about 17 kHz to about 19 kHz, or about 10 kHz to about 20 kHz. The second frequency can be greater and different than the first frequency, such as greater than about 15 kHz, greater than 20 kHz, greater than 25 kHz, or in ranges of about 15 kHz to about 25 kHz, about 15 kHz to about 17 kHz, about 16 kHz to about 18 kHz, about 17 kHz to about 19 kHz, about 18 kHz to about 20 kHz, about 19 kHz to about 21 kHz, about 20 kHz to about 22 kHz, about 21 kHz to about 23 kHz, about 22 kHz to about 24 kHz, or about 23 kHz to about 25 kHz.

[064] Block 320 can include ultrasonicating the slurry with ultrasonic energy exhibiting energy sufficient to reduce the average particle size of the oat hulls, to at least partially coating the oat hulls with the trehalose, etc. For example, block 320 can include ultrasonicating the slurry with at least 25 watts per pound of slurry (W/lbs.), such as in ranges of about 25 W/lbs. to about 40 W/lbs., about 30 W/lbs. to about 50 W/lbs., about 40 W/lbs. to about 60 W/lbs., about 50 W/lbs. to about 70 W/lbs., about 60 W/lbs. to about 80 W/lbs., about 70 W/lbs. to about 90 W/lbs., about 80 W/lbs. to about 100 W/lbs., about 90 W/lbs. to about 110 W/lbs., or about 100 W/lbs. to about 125 W/lbs.

[065] In an example, block 320 can include ultrasonicating the slurry at a selected temperature that is greater than room temperature or at a selected pressure. For instance, block 320 can include ultrasonicating the slurry at a selected temperature that is greater than about 75 °C, such as in ranges of about 75 °C to about 125 °C, about 100 °C to about 150 °C, about 125 °C to about 175 °C, about 150 °C to about 200 °C, about 175 °C to about 225 °C, or about 200 °C to about 250 °C. For instance, block 320 can include ultrasonicating the slurry at a pressure that is greater than about 100 kPa, such as in ranges of about 100 kPa to about 175 kPa, about 150 kPa to about 225 kPa, or greater than about 200 kPa. Ultrasonicating the slurry at any of the above temperatures or pressures can decrease the time required to perform block 320, cause block 320 to further decrease the average particle size of the oat hulls, or increase the efficiency of block 320 compared to ultrasonicating the slurry at about room temperature and atmospheric pressure (e.g., 100 kPa).

[066] It is understood that, in other examples, other methods can be used instead of ultrasonicating the slurry. For example, the slurry can be mixed using a magnetic stirrer, a screw, or another suitable method. However, it is believed by the inventor that these other methods are not as effective as ultrasonicating the slurry. For example, the other methods may not cause complete diffusion of the trehalose in the solution, homogenization of the oat hulls and the second solution, controllably reduce the average particle size of the oat hulls, coat the oat hulls, or evenly distribute the coated oat hulls in the slurry. Additionally, the other methods can increase the time required to coat the oat hulls and reduce the average particle size of the oat hulls, increase the equipment cost, increase the labor requirements, and increase the space requirements to form coated oat hulls.

[067] In an example, method 300 can include, before or concurrently with block 305, reducing the average particle size of the plurality of oat hulls such that the oat hulls exhibits an average particle size that is less than about 850 μηι. For example, the average particle size of the oat hulls can be reduced to about 500 μηι or less. Reducing the average particle size prior to or concurrently with block 305 can reduce the time required to perform blocks 305, 310, 315, or 320. The average particle size of the oat hulls can be reduced using any suitable method. For example, the average particle size of the oat hulls can be reduced using the RA and RP Series disintegrator machines from Bepex International LLC, or similar machines. In another example, the average particle size of the oat hulls can be reduced using a mill (e.g. , an impact mill, a jet mill, a ball mill, etc.), using rolls, grinding (e.g. , wet or dry grinding), or any other suitable method. In an example, the average particle size of the oat hulls can be reduced using an ultrasonicating method that is the same as or similar to the ultrasonicating method of block 305. In such an example, the average particle size of the oat hulls can be reduce by disposing the oat hulls in a liquid component (e.g. , water, the first solution, etc.) and ultrasonicating (e.g. , with a single or dual frequency) the plurality of oat hulls and the liquid component. In an example, the oat hulls can be dried (e.g., thermally dried) after grinding the oat hulls depending on the method used to grind the oat hulls (e.g. , wet grinding).

[068] In an example, method 300 can include monitoring at least one of a pH, a temperature, or a pressure of the first solution during block 305. For example, as will be discussed in more detail with regards to FIG. 4, the pH, temperature, and pressure of the first solution can be monitored using a pH sensor, a temperature sensor, or a pressure sensor. In an example, responsive sensing the pH, temperature, or pressure of the first solution, method 300 can include at least one of adding water to the first solution to lower to pH of the first solution, add at least one basic component to the first solution to increase the pH of the first solution, add additional oat hulls to the first solution, increase or decrease the temperature of the first solution, or increase or decrease the pressure of the first solution.

[069] In an example, method 300 can include, after block 305, cooling the oat hulls and the first solution to a temperature at is less than 100 °C, such as less than about 75 °C, less than about 65 °C, or less than about 50 °C. Decreasing the temperature of the oat hulls and the first solution can facilitate removing the first solution from the oat hulls, facilitate adding the second solution to the oat hulls, and facilitate other operations, functions, or actions (e.g., facilitates block 625 of FIG. 6). For example, decreasing the temperature of the oat hulls and the first solution can prevent the first solution, a solution (e.g., water) used to remove the first solution, or the second solution (e.g. , the solvent of the second solution) from boiling.

[070] In an example, method 300 can include, after mixing the second solution with the plurality of oat hulls to form the slurry, heating the plurality of at least partially coated oat hulls to a temperature greater than about 100 °C (e.g. , about 150 °C to about 225 °C) effective to at least partially sterilize the plurality of at least partially coated oat hulls. For example, during method 300, microorganisms (e.g. , bacteria) can be introduced to the oat hulls. The microorganisms can reduce the shelf life of and contaminate the coated oat hull fibers formed using method 300. As such, the coated oat hull fibers can be heated to a temperature and held at that temperature for a time that is sufficient to kill at least some (e.g., substantially all) of the microorganisms thereby sterilizing the coated oat hulls. The temperature can be selected based on the microorganisms or the number of microorganisms that are present in the coated oat hulls.

[071] In an example, method 300 can include drying the slurry. For example, the slurry can be dried to remove at least a portion of the liquid present in the slurry. The liquid can include the solvent used to dissolve the trehalose, the remainder of the first solution present in the slurry, the remainder of a liquid (e.g. , water) used to remove the first solution from the oat hulls, or another other liquid. In an example, drying the slurry can include reducing the moisture content of the slurry to about 1 weight % to about 12 weight %.

[072] In an example, drying the slurry can include drying each of the coated oat hulls individually or substantially individually (e.g., in small agglomerates). Drying the coated oat hulls individually or substantially individually can result in the coated oat hulls being completely coated by the trehalose. Additionally, drying the coated oat hulls individually or substantially individually can result in a free-flowing powder. An example of drying the coated oat hulls individually or substantially individually includes spray drying.

[073] In an example, drying the slurry can include drying the coated oat hulls in large groups of the slurry (e.g., drying large agglomerates of the coated oat hulls or drying at least a portion of the slurry). For example, the slurry can be dried using a fluid bed drying technique. Drying large groups the slurry can form large agglomerates of the coated oat hulls that are not free-flowing. As such, the large agglomerates can be further processed (e.g. , grinding) to form a free-flowing powder. However, processing the agglomerates can result in portions of the coated oat hull fibers that are not coated in trehalose.

[074] In an example, method 300 can include mixing one or more additional components with oat hulls after drying the slurry, after block 320, or during at least one of blocks 305, 310, 315, or 320. For example, the additional components can be disposed on the oat hulls, disposed on a surface of the trehalose coating, coated by the trehalose coating, or embedded in the trehalose coating. The additional components can include any of the additionally components disclosed herein. For example, the additional components can include at least one probiotic strain, vitamin, at least one mineral, or yeast.

[075] In an example, method 300 can include disposing the plurality of partially coated oat hulls in a moisture free, fluid tight packaging (e.g. , packaging 102 of FIG. 1); the moisture free, fluid tight packaging exhibiting a substantially moisture impermeable barrier.

[076] FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a system 418 that is configured to perform at least some of blocks 305, 310, 315, and 320, according to at least some examples. The system 418 can include a container 420. The container 420 can include any container that is configured to hold the oat hulls and the first solution without being significantly damaged by the first solution. In an example, the container 420 can include a pressurized vessel, a closed container, an open container, or an autoclave. The container 420 can include or be thermally coupled to a heater 422 that is configured to controllably heat the container 420 or the contents in the container 420 (e.g. , the oat hulls, the first solution, the second solution, coated oat hulls) to a selected temperature. The container 420 can also include or be fluidly coupled to a pump 424 (e.g., compressor, or vacuum) that is configured to controllably subject the container 420 or the contents in the container 420 a selected pressure. The system 418 can also include an oat hull source 426 and a first solution source 428. The oat hull source 426 and the first solution source 428 can be configured to dispense the oat hulls and the first solution into the container 420, for example, before or after the container 420 is heated or pressurized. In an example, the first solution source

428 can store the first solution premixed or the at least one diluent and the at least one basic component separately (e.g., the diluent and the basic component mix while dispensed or in the container 420). The system 418 can also include at least one mixer

429 (e.g., an ultrasonic driver) disposed in, attached to, or otherwise coupled to the container 420. For example, the mixer 429 can include at least one ultrasonic driver that is configured to apply a single frequency or a dual frequency.

[077] The system 418 also includes one or more sensors 430 that are configured to monitor one or more characteristics of the container 420 or the contents of the container (e.g., at least one of a pH, temperature, or pressure of the first solution). For example, the sensors 430 can be disposed in the container 420 so that the sensors 430 can directly monitor the characteristics of the container 420 or the contents of the container 420. In another example, the sensors 430 can be remote from the container 420 and configured to indirectly detect the characteristics. In an example, the sensors 430 can include a pH sensor (e.g. , a potentiometric pH meter), a temperature sensor (e.g., an IR thermometer, thermistor, thermocouple, etc.), or a pressure sensor (e.g., a pressure gauge), or another suitable sensor. The sensors 430 can be configured to output one or more sensing signals responsive to detecting the characteristics. The sensing signals can include the detect characteristics encoded therein.

[078] The system 418 can include at least one solution removal device 431 that is configured to remove at least some of the first solution from the oat hulls (e.g. , block 310). The solution removal device 431 can be attached to, incorporated into, disposed in, disposed adjacent to, or otherwise coupled to the container 420. For example, the solution removal device 431 can include a source of water or another fluid that is used to flush the first solution from the oat hulls. In another example, the solution removal device 431 can include a drain that is selectively opened to allow the first solution to drain from the container 420 and selectively closed to maintain the first solution in the container 420. In another example, the solution removal device 431 can include a heat source that evaporates the first solution. In another example, the solution removal device 431 can include a filter or a decanting centrifuge. In another example, the solution removal device 431 can include two or more different solution removal devices (e.g. , the source of water and a drain).

[079] In an example, the system 418 can also be configured to also perform block 315. For example, the system 418 can include a second solution source 432 that is configured to dispose the second solution into the container 420. The second solution source 432 can include the trehalose and the solvent premixed together or can store the trehalose and the solvent separately. The second solution source 432 can be at least partially controlled by the controller 433.

[080] The system 418 also includes a controller 433 that is operably coupled to the sensors 430 and configured to receive the sensing signals outputted thereby. The controller 433 is also operably coupled to and configured to at least partially control the operation of one or more components of the system 418. The one or more components of the system 418 that the controller 433 can control includes the container 420, the heater 422, the pump 424, the oat hull source 426, the first solution source 428, the mixer 429, the sensors 430, the solution removal device 431, a second solution source 432, or the mixer 429. The controller 433 can include computer-readable medium 434 that stores one or more computer-executable instructions thereon and a processor 436 coupled to the computer-readable medium 434 that is configured to execute the computer-executable instructions. More details describing the structure and function of the controller 433 is discussed in relation to FIGS. 7 and 8.

[081] The controller 433 can direct the components of the system to perform blocks 305, 310, 315, and 320. For example, the controller 433 can direct the oat hull source 426 and the first solution source 428 to dispense the oat hulls and the first solution into the container 420. The controller 433 can direct a mixer 429 to mix the oat hulls and the first solution together. The controller 433 can also direct the solution removal device 431 to remove the first solution from the oat hulls. The controller 433 can then direct the second solution source 432 to dispense the second solution into the container 420. The controller 433 can then direct the mixer 429 (e.g. , the ultrasonic driver) to reduce the average particle size of the oat hulls and coat the oat hulls with the trehalose to form coated oat hull fibers 212 of FIG. 2.

[082] The controller 433 can also control the operation of the components of the system 418 responsive to receiving the sensing signals from the sensors 430. For example, the controller 433 can direct the first solution source 428 to dispense the at least one diluent (e.g., water) if the sensing signals indicate that the pH of the first solution is high. In another example, the controller 433 can direct the first solution source 428 to dispense the basic component when the sensing signals indicate that the pH is low. In another example, the controller 433 can direct the oat hull source 426 to dispense more oat hulls when the sensing signals indicate that the pH, pressure, or temperature is reducing the yield of the oat hulls. In another example, the controller 433 can direct the heater 422 to increase or decrease the temperature applied to the container 420 or the contents of the container 420. In another example, the controller 433 can direct the pump 424 to increase or decrease the pressure applied to the container 420 or the contents of the container 420.

[083] In an example, the controller 433 is omitted. In such an example, an individual can manually add diluent to the container 420, add a basic component to the container 420, add oat hulls to the container 420, increase or decrease the temperature applied to the container 420, increase or decrease the pressure applied to the container 420, add the oat hulls to the container 420, add the first or second solution of the container 420, remove the first solution from the oat hulls, mix the oat hulls with the first or second solution, etc.

[084] Referring back to FIG. 1, in an example, oat hull fiber product 104 can include one or more probiotics therein. In particular, the oat hull fiber product 104 can include a plurality of at least partially coated oat hull fibers and at least some of the coated oat hull fibers includes at least one of the probiotics. An oat hull fiber product 104 that includes probiotics can be used to promote healthy functioning of a digestive system, treat irritable bowel syndrome, treat inflammatory bowel disease, treat infectious diarrhea, treat antibiotic-related diarrhea, treat lactose intolerance, improve an immune system, promote oral heath, treat skin conditions (e.g. , eczema), treat urinary and vaginal infections, prevent respiratory infections, treat lime disease, treat acme, etc.

[085] In an example, the system 418 can include a plurality of containers (not shown). For example, the system 418 can include a first container that is configured to hold the oat hulls and the first solution and a second container that is configured to hold the oat hulls and the second solution. In such an example, the oat hull source 426 and the first solution source 428 can be configured to dispense oat hulls and the first solution, respectively, into the first container. The oat hulls can then be removed from the first container and disposed into the second container before, during, or after block 310. The second solution source 432 can dispense the second solution into the second container before, during, or after the oat hulls are disposed in the second container.

[086] FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of one of the coated oat hull fibers 512 of the oat hull fiber product 104 of FIG. 1 that includes at least one of the one or more probiotics 544, according to at least some examples. Except as otherwise described herein, the coated oat hull fibers 512 and its materials, components, or elements can be similar to or the same as the coated oat hull fibers 212 (FIGS. 2) and its respective materials, components, or elements. For example, the coated oat hull fibers 512 can include an oat hull fiber 514 and a trehalose coating 516. The coated oat hull fibers 512 or its materials, components, or elements can be used in any of the systems or sensor devices disclosed herein.

[087] At least some of (e.g. , substantially all of) the probiotics 544 can be completely coated by or completely embedded in the trehalose coating 516. The trehalose coating 516 can increase the survivability of the probiotics 544 that are coated thereby or embedded therein. For example, after 3 to 6 months, the survivability of a probiotic that is coated by or embedded in the trehalose coating 516 can be as high as about 70% to about 90%. For comparison, after 3 to 6 months, the survivability of a probiotic that is not coated by or embedded in the trehalose coating 516 is about 1%. As such, coating or embedding the probiotics 544 with the trehalose coating 516 allows the use of fewer probiotics and increases the shelf life of the coated oat hull fibers 512. It is noted that, in some examples, at least some of the probiotics 544 can be only partially embedded in or partially coated by the trehalose coating 516.

[088] The trehalose coating 516 can form about 5 weight % to about 40 weight % of the coated oat hull fibers 512. For example, the trehalose coating 516 can form about 5 weight % to about 10 weight %, about 10 weight % to about 15 weight %, about 15 weight % to about 20 weight %, about 20 weight % to about 25 weight %, or about 20 weight % to about 40 weight % of the coated oat hull fibers 212. In a particular example, the trehalose coating 516 can form about 5 weight % to about 25 weight % of the coated oat hull fibers 512. As such, the amount of the trehalose coating is less than the amount of the oat hull fibers 214. The amount of the trehalose coating 516 can be sufficient for the trehalose coating 516 to provide noticeable improvements to the texture of the oat hull fibers 514, completely coat the oat hull fibers 514, or coat substantially all of the probiotics 544 are coated by or embedded in the trehalose coating 516. As such, the amount of trehalose coating 516 used to coat the oat hull fibers 514 can be greater than the amount of trehalose coating 216 used to coat the oat hull fibers 214 (FIG. 2).

[089] The coated oat hull fibers 512 can exhibit a moisture content of about 5 weight % to about 15 weight %, such as about 9 weight % to about 11 weight %. The low moisture content can sterilize the coated oat hull fibers 512 thereby prolonging the self-life thereof. The low moisture content can also prevent caking on the surface of the coated oat hull fibers 512. The relatively high moisture content (compared to the coated oat hull fibers 212 of FIG. 2) can increase the survivability of the probiotics 544.

[090] In an example, the probiotic 544 can be present in the coated oat hull fibers 512 in an amount greater than 0 weight % to about 15 weight %. For example, the probiotics 544 can be present in the coated oat hull fibers 512 in an amount of about 0.1 weight % to about 5 weight %, about 0.1 weight % to about 3.5 weight %, about 0.1 weight % to about 1.5 weight %, about 2 weight % to about 3 weight %, about 3 weight % to about 5 weight %, about 5 weight % to about 10 weight %, or about 10 weight % to about 15 weight. The relatively low amount of probiotics in the coated oat hull fibers 512 is due the increase survivability of the probiotics 544 due to the trehalose coating 516 and the moisture content of the coated oat hull fibers 512.

[091] In an example, the amount of probiotics 544 present in the coated oat hull fibers 512 can be about lxlO⁶ colony forming units ("CFU")/serving to about lxlO¹² CFU/serving. For example, the amount of probiotics 544 present in the coated oat hull fibers 512 can be greater than about lxlO⁶ CFU/serving, such as about lxlO⁶ CFU/serving to about lxlO⁷ CFU/serving, about lxlO⁷ CFU/serving to about lxlO⁸ CFU/serving, about lxlO⁸ CFU/serving to about lxlO⁹ CFU/serving, about lxlO⁹ CFU/serving to about lxlO¹⁰ CFU/serving, about lxlO¹⁰ CFU/serving to about lxlO¹¹ CFU/serving, or about lxlO¹¹ CFU/serving to about lxlO¹² CFU/serving. In an example, the probiotic 544 can include a probiotic blend (e.g., a plurality of different types of probiotics). In such an example, each of the plurality of probiotics can exhibit any of the CFU/serving disclosed herein. The amount of probiotics 544 present in the coated oat hull fibers 512 can depend on the type of probiotic included in the coated oat hull fiber 512, the amount of trehalose, the moisture content, the intended shelf life of the oat hull fiber product, etc.

[092] In an example, the oat hull fiber product that includes the coated oat hull fibers 512 can be configured to be used in a human. In such an example, the probiotic 544 can be selected to be beneficial to humans. For example, a probiotic 544 that is selected to be beneficial to humans includes Lactobacillus, such as lactobacillus acidophilus, lactobacillus casei, lactobacillus johnsonii, lactobacillus plantarum, lactobacillus paracasei, lactobacillus rhamnosus, or lactobacillus salivarius. In another example, a probiotic 544 that is selected to be beneficial to humans includes bifidobacterium, such as bifidobacterium bifidum, bifidobacterium breve, bifidobacterium infantis, bifidobacterium lactis, or bifidobacterium longum. In another example, a probiotic 544 that is selected to be beneficial to humans includes bacillus coagulans or saccharomyces boulardii.

[093] In an example, a probiotic 544 that is selected to be beneficial to humans can include a probiotic blend. A probiotic blend includes at least two different probiotics. For example, the probiotic blend that is selected to be beneficial to humans can include at least two probiotics from the same type of probiotic (e.g. , lactobacillus acidophilus and lactobacillus casei). In another example, the probiotic blend that is selected to be beneficial to humans can include at least two probiotics from different types of probiotics (e.g., lactobacillus acidophilus and bifidobacterium bifidum). In a specific example, the probiotic blend that is beneficial to humans is shown in Table 1 :

TABLE 1

In another specific example, the probiotic blend that is beneficial to humans is shown ^' Table 2: TABLE 2

[094] In an example, the oat hull fiber product that includes the coated oat hull fibers 512 can be configured to be used in animals, such as livestock, equine, and household pets. In such an example, the probiotic 544 can be selected to be beneficial to animals. For example, a probiotic 544 that is selected to be beneficial to animals includes bacillus, such as bacillus cereus, bacillus coagulans, or bacillus subtilis. In another example, a probiotic 544 that is selected to be beneficial to animals includes bifidobacterium, such as bifidobacterium animallis, bifidobacterium lactis, or bifidobacterium longum. In another example, a probiotic 544 that is selected to be beneficial to animals includes lactobacillus, such as lactobacillus acidophilus, lactobacillus casei, lactobacillus helveticus, lactobacillus bulgaricus, or lactobacillus plantarum. In another example, a probiotic 544 that is selected to be beneficial to animals includes enterococcus faecium, ruminobacter amylophilum, or streptococcus thermophiles.

[095] In an example, a probiotic 544 that is selected to be beneficial to animals can include a probiotic blend. The probiotic blend that is selected to be beneficial to animals can include at least two probiotics from the same type of probiotic (e.g. , bifidobacterium animallis, bifidobacterium lactis) or can include at least two probiotics from different types of probiotics (e.g. , bifidobacterium animallis and lactobacillus acidophilus). In a specific example, the probiotic blend that is beneficial to livestock is shown in Table 3:

TABLE 3

In another specific example, the probiotic blend that is beneficial to dogs and cats is shown in Table:

TABLE 4

[096] FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating a method 600 of forming the plurality of coated oat hull fibers 512 illustrated in FIG. 5, according to at least one example. An example method may include one or more operations, functions or actions as illustrated by one or more of blocks 605, 610, 615, 620 and/or 625. The operations described in the blocks 605, 610, 615, and 620 may be performed responsive to execution (such as by one or more processors described herein) of computer-executable instructions stored in a computer-readable medium, such as a computer-readable medium of a computing device or some other controller similarly configured. Except as otherwise described therein, the method 600 and its one or more operations, functions or actions can be similar to or the same as the one or more operations, functions or actions of method 300 (FIG. 3).

[097] An example process may begin with block 605, which recites "treating a plurality of oat hulls in a first solution to remove at least some lignin or silica from the plurality of oat hulls." Block 605 may be followed by block 610, which recites "removing at least some of the first solution from the plurality of oat hulls." Block 610 may be followed by block 615, which recites "mixing a second solution with the plurality of oat hulls to form a slurry, the second solution including trehalose." Block 615 may be followed by block 620, which recites "ultrasonicating the slurry to at least partially coat the plurality of oat hulls with the trehalose and reduce the average particle size of the plurality of oat hulls." Block 620 may be followed by block 625, which recites "adding at least one probiotic to the second solution."

[098] The blocks included in the described example method 600 are for illustration purposes. In some examples, the blocks may be performed in a different order. In some other examples, various blocks may be eliminated. In still other examples, various blocks may be divided into additional blocks, supplemented with other blocks, or combined together into fewer blocks. Other variations of these specific blocks are contemplated, including changes in the order of the blocks, changes in the content of the blocks being split or combined into other blocks, etc. In some examples, method 600 can include, after adding at least one probiotic to the second solution, drying the slurry.

[099] Block 605 recites, "treating a plurality of oat hulls in a first solution to remove at least some lignin or silica from the plurality of oat hulls." Block 605 is the same as or substantially similar to block 305 of FIG. 3.

[0100] Block 610 recites, "removing at least some of the first solution from the plurality of oat hulls." Block 610 is the same as or substantially similar to block 310 of FIG. 3.

[0101] Block 615 recites, "mixing a second solution with the plurality of oat hulls to form a slurry, the second solution including trehalose." Block 615 is the same as or substantially similar to block 315 of FIG. 3.

[0102] Block 620 recites, "ultrasonicating the slurry to at least partially coat the plurality of oat hulls with the trehalose and reduce the average particle size of the plurality of oat hulls." Block 620 can be the same as or substantially similar to block 325 of FIG. 3. In an example, block 620 can be performed substantially simultaneously with or after block 615.

[0103] Block 625 recites, "adding at least one probiotic to the second solution." In an example, block 625 is performed after block 620 since the ultrasonic energy can kill the probiotic. In an example, block 625 can be performed substantially simultaneously with block 615. For example, the probiotic can be added to the second solution while the second solution is added to the oat hulls, while the oat hulls are added to the second solution, or while the oat hulls or the second solution are added to a container. In such an example, the block 620 can be omitted from the method 600 and replaced with gently mixing the slurry since the ultrasonic energy of block 620 can kill the probiotic. In an example, block 625 can be performed after block 615. For example, the probiotic can be added to the second solution after the second solution is added to the oat hulls, after the oat hulls are added to the second solution, or after the oat hulls and second solution are initially mixed together.

[0104] In an example, block 625 can include adding the probiotic to the second solution at a temperature that does not kill the probiotics. Additionally, the block 625 can include adding the probiotic to the second solution at a temperature that inhibits germination of the probiotic. For example, the temperature of the second solution at which the probiotic is added to the second solution can be about 45 °C or less. For example, the temperature can be about -5 °C to about 0 °C, about 0 °C to about 10 °C, about 10 °C to about 20 °C, about 20 °C to about 30 °C, or about 30 °C to about 45 °C. In an example, lower temperatures can inhibit or substantially prevent germination of the probiotics. For example, the second solution can exhibit a temperature of about -5 °C to about 2 °C thereby inhibiting or substantially preventing germination of the probiotics. In an example, the second solution can exhibit a first temperature when the second solution is mixed with the oat hulls. The second solution can then be cooled to a second temperature that does not kill the probiotics or that inhibits germination of the probiotics before the probiotics are added to the second solution. The second solution can be cooled by rotating the second solution in a container (e.g. , container 420 of FIG. 4), flowing cold water around the second solution, etc.

[0105] In an example, block 625 can include adding one or more additional components to the second solution. The additional components can include any of the components disclosed herein. For example, the additional components can include yeast. Adding yeast to the second solution during block 625 can increase the survivability of the probiotics.

[0106] In an example, block 625 can include mixing the probiotics with the oat hulls and the second solution. Mixing the probiotics with the oat hulls and the second solution allows the probiotics to become completely dispersed in the second solution. In an example, the probiotics can be gently mixed with the oat hulls and the second solution. As used herein, gently mixing is any method of mixing that is sufficiently gentle to not kill most of the probiotics and is effective to allow at least some of the probiotics to be lodged in, adhere to, or otherwise be attached to the oat hulls or become completely embedded in the trehalose coating. [0107] In an example, the method 600 can include gently mixing the slurry after the probiotics are added to the slurry. Gently mixing the slurry can include mixing the slurry using any method that is unlikely to kill a significant portion of the probiotics. For example, the method 600 can include gently mixing the slurry with a mechanical mixer or another non-ultrasonic mixer.

[0108] In an example, method 600 can include, after adding the probiotics to the second solution, drying the slurry. For example, the slurry can be dried to remove at least a portion of the liquid present in the slurry. The liquid can include the solvent used to dissolve the trehalose, the remainder of the first solution present in the slurry, the remainder of a liquid (e.g., water) used to remove the first solution from the oat hulls, or another other liquid. In an example, drying the slurry can include reducing the moisture content of the slurry to about 5 weight % to about 15 weight %. Additionally, drying the slurry can include any method that does not kill the probiotics. For example, the method can involve temperatures under 100 °C, such as under 75 °C, under 50 °C, or at a temperature that inhibits germination of the probiotics.

[0109] In an example, drying the slurry can include drying each of the coated oat hulls individually or substantially individually (e.g., spray drying the slurry). In an example, drying the slurry can include drying the coated oat hulls in large groups of the slurry. For example, drying the slurry can include using a vacuum drying technique. However, drying the coated oat hulls in large groups can require further processing to form a free- flowing powder.

[0110] In an example, method 600 can include any of other operation, function or action of method 300.

[0111] Referring back to FIG. 4, the system 418 can be modified to perform the method 600. For example, the system 418 can include a probiotic source (not shown) that is configured to hold the one or more probiotics. The probiotic source can be configured to dispense the one or more probiotics into the second solution (e.g., into the container 420) responsive to direction from the controller 433.

[0112] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating an example computing device 700 that is configured to be used as a controller (e.g. , controller 433 of FIG. 4), according to at least one example. In a very basic configuration 701, computing device 700 typically includes one or more processors 710 and system memory 720. A memory bus 730 may be used for communicating between the processor 710 and the system memory 720. [0113] Depending on the desired configuration, processor 710 may be of any type including but not limited to a microprocessor (μΡ), a microcontroller (μθ), a digital signal processor (DSP), or any combination thereof. Processor 710 may include one or more levels of caching, such as a level one cache 711 and a level two cache 712, a processor core 713, and registers 714. An example processor core 713 may include an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a floating point unit (FPU), a digital signal processing core (DSP Core), or any combination thereof. An example memory controller 715 may also be used with the processor 710, or in some implementations, the memory controller 715 may be an internal part of the processor 710.

[0114] Depending on the desired configuration, the system memory 720 may be of any type including but not limited to volatile memory (such as RAM), non-volatile memory (such as ROM, flash memory, etc.) or any combination thereof. System memory 720 may include an operating system 721, one or more applications 722, and program data 724. Application 722 may include a system control algorithm 723 that is arranged to determine when to control the one or more components of the system 418 responsive to sensing signals, as described herein. Program data 724 may include look-up tables 725, and/or other information useful for the implementation of application 722. In some examples, application 722 may be arranged to operate with program data 724 on an operating system 721 such that any of the procedures described herein may be performed. This described basic configuration is illustrated in FIG. 7 by those components within dashed line of the basic configuration 701.

[0115] Computing device 700 may have additional features or functionality, and additional interfaces to facilitate communications between the basic configuration 701 and any required devices and interfaces. For example, a bus/interface controller 740 may be used to facilitate communications between the basic configuration 701 and one or more storage devices 750 via a storage interface bus 741. The storage devices 750 may be removable storage devices 751, non-removable storage devices 752, or a combination thereof. Examples of removable storage and non-removable storage devices include magnetic disk devices such as flexible disk drives and hard-disk drives (HDD), optical disk drives such as compact disk (CD) drives or digital versatile disk (DVD) drives, solid state drives (SSD), and tape drives to name a few. Example computer storage media may include volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information, such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data.

[0116] System memory 720, removable storage 751 and non-removable storage 752 are all examples of computer storage media. Computer storage media includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD- ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which may be used to store the desired information and which may be accessed by computing device 700. Any such computer storage media may be part of computing device 700.

[0117] Computing device 700 may also include an interface bus 742 for facilitating communication from various interface devices (e.g., output interfaces, peripheral interfaces, and communication interfaces) to the basic configuration 701 via the bus/interface controller 740. Example output devices 760 include a graphics processing unit 761 and an audio processing unit 762, which may be configured to communicate to various external devices such as a display or speakers via one or more A/V ports 763. Example peripheral interfaces 770 include a serial interface controller 771 or a parallel interface controller 772, which may be configured to communicate with external devices such as input devices (e.g. , keyboard, mouse, pen, voice input device, touch input device, etc.) or other peripheral devices (e.g. , printer, scanner, etc.) via one or more I/O ports 773. An example communication device 780 includes a network controller 781, which may be arranged to facilitate communications with one or more other computing devices 790 over a network communication link via one or more communication ports 782.

[0118] The network communication link may be one example of a communication media. Communication media may typically be embodied by computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal, such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism, and may include any information delivery media. A "modulated data signal" may be a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in the signal. By way of example, and not limitation, communication media may include wired media such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, radio frequency (RF), microwave, infrared (IR) and other wireless media. The term computer readable media as used herein may include both storage media and communication media.

[0119] Computing device 700 may be implemented as a portion of a small-form factor portable (or mobile) electronic device such as a cell phone, a personal data assistant (PDA), a personal media player device, a wireless web-watch device, a personal headset device, an application specific device, or a hybrid device that include any of the above functions. Computing device 700 may also be implemented as a personal computer including both laptop computer and non-laptop computer configurations.

[0120] FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating an example computer program product 800 that is arranged to store instructions for determining when to control the one or more components of the system, according to at least one example. The signal bearing medium 802 which may be implemented as or include a computer-readable medium 806, a recordable medium 808, a communications medium 810, or combinations thereof, stores programming instructions 804 that may configure the processing unit to perform all or some of the processes previously described. These instructions may include, for example, one or more executable instructions for treating a plurality of oat hulls in a first solution to remove at least some of lignin or silica from the plurality of oat hulls; removing at least some of the first solution from the plurality of oat hulls; mixing a second solution with the plurality of oat hulls to form a slurry, the second solution including trehalose; and ultrasonicating the slurry to at least partially coat the plurality of oat hulls with the trehalose and reduce the average particle size of the plurality of oat hulls.

WORKING EXAMPLE 1

[0121] A mixture was formed by adding 4 grams ground oat hulls exhibiting an average particle size of about 44 μιτι to water. The ground oat hulls formed about 18 weight % of the mixture. The mixture was well mixed using a MX070 Mini-Pro mixer at 4,500 RPM. The mixture was heated to a temperature of about 175 °C and a pressure of about 125 kPa to about 145 kPa. The mixture was then flowed through an Advanced Sonics Duel Frequency DFR 2208-HP-TC ultrasonicator at about 9.92 lbs/minute. The ultrasonicator emitted a first frequency of about 16 kHz at 1.5 kW and a second frequency of about 20 kHz at 1.5 kW. After passing through the ultrasonicator, the average particle size of the oat hulls was determined to be about 4.2 μιτι using optical microscopy at about 400x magnification. Working Example 1 demonstrates that ultrasonicating the mixture, especially at a dual frequency, is sufficient to quickly reduce the average particle size of the oat hulls.

WORKING EXAMPLE 2

[0122] Ground oat hulls exhibiting an average particle size of about 125 μηι were disposed in a solution of sodium hydroxide and water to form a mixture. The solution digest the ground oat hulls. 4 kg of the mixture was disposed in a container and subjected to ultrasonic energy from an Advanced Sonics Duel Frequency DFR 2208-HP-TC ultrasonicator for a period of 20 minutes. The ultrasonicator emitted a first frequency of about 16 kHz at 1.5 kW and a second frequency of about 20 khz at 1.5 kW. Samples of the mixture were taken from the container periodically during the 20 minute test. From the samples, optical microscopy at about lOOx magnification showed that the average particle size of the ground oat hulls were about 7.1 μιτι. The samples also demonstrated that ultrasonicating the mixture for 30 seconds was sufficient to significantly reduce the average particle size of the ground oat hulls and that ultrasonicating the mixture for more than 30 seconds has little to no effect on the ground oat hulls.

[0123] The present disclosure is not to be limited in terms of the particular examples described in this application, which are intended as illustrations of various aspects. Many modifications and examples can be made without departing from its spirit and scope, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Functionally equivalent methods and apparatuses within the scope of the disclosure, in addition to those enumerated herein, will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing descriptions. Such modifications and examples are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. The present disclosure is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. It is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to particular methods, reagents, compounds compositions or biological systems, which can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular examples only, and is not intended to be limiting.

[0124] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity. [0125] It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as "open" terms (e.g. , the term "including" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to," the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least," the term "includes" should be interpreted as "includes but is not limited to," etc.).

[0126] It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation, no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to examples containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g. , "a" and/or "an" should be interpreted to mean "at least one" or "one or more"); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of "two recitations," without other modifiers, means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations).

[0127] Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, and C, etc." is used, in general, such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, and C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one of A, B, or C, etc." is used, in general, such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, or C" would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" will be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A and B."

[0128] In addition, where features or aspects of the disclosure are described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group. As will be understood by one skilled in the art, for any and all purposes, such as in terms of providing a written description, all ranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all possible subranges and combinations of subranges thereof. Any listed range can be easily recognized as sufficiently describing and enabling the same range being broken down into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths, tenths, etc. As a non-limiting example, each range discussed herein can be readily broken down into a lower third, middle third and upper third, etc. As will also be understood by one skilled in the art all language such as "up to," "at least," "greater than," "less than," and the like include the number recited and refer to ranges which can be subsequently broken down into subranges as discussed above. Finally, as will be understood by one skilled in the art, a range includes each individual member. Thus, for example, a group having 1-3 items refers to groups having 1, 2, or 3 items. Similarly, a group having 1-5 items refers to groups having 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 items, and so forth.

[0129] While the foregoing detailed description has set forth various examples of the devices and/or processes via the use of block diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples, such block diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples contain one or more functions and/or operations, it will be understood by those within the art that each function and/or operation within such block diagrams, flowcharts, or examples can be implemented, individually and/or collectively, by a wide range of hardware, software, firmware, or virtually any combination thereof. In one example, several portions of the subject matter described herein may be implemented via Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), digital signal processors (DSPs), or other integrated formats. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that some aspects of the examples disclosed herein, in whole or in part, can be equivalently implemented in integrated circuits, as one or more computer programs running on one or more computers (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more computer systems), as one or more programs running on one or more processors (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more microprocessors), as firmware, or as virtually any combination thereof, and that designing the circuitry and/or writing the code for the software and/or firmware would be well within the skill of one of skill in the art in light of this disclosure. For example, if a user determines that speed and accuracy are paramount, the user may opt for a mainly hardware and/or firmware vehicle; if flexibility is paramount, the user may opt for a mainly software implementation; or, yet again alternatively, the user may opt for some combination of hardware, software, and/or firmware.

[0130] In addition, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the mechanisms of the subject matter described herein are capable of being distributed as a program product in a variety of forms, and that an illustrative example of the subject matter described herein applies regardless of the particular type of signal bearing medium used to actually carry out the distribution. Examples of a signal bearing medium include, but are not limited to, the following: a recordable type medium such as a floppy disk, a hard disk drive (HDD), a Compact Disc (CD), a Digital Video Disk (DVD), a digital tape, a computer memory, etc.; and a transmission type medium such as a digital and/or an analog communication medium (e.g., a fiber optic cable, a waveguide, a wired communication link, a wireless communication link, etc.).

[0131] Those skilled in the art will recognize that it is common within the art to describe devices and/or processes in the fashion set forth herein, and thereafter use engineering practices to integrate such described devices and/or processes into data processing systems. That is, at least a portion of the devices and/or processes described herein can be integrated into a data processing system via a reasonable amount of experimentation. Those having skill in the art will recognize that a typical data processing system generally includes one or more of a system unit housing, a video display device, a memory such as volatile and non-volatile memory, processors such as microprocessors and digital signal processors, computational entities such as operating systems, drivers, graphical user interfaces, and applications programs, one or more interaction devices, such as a touch pad or screen, and/or control systems including feedback loops and control motors (e.g. , feedback for sensing position and/or velocity; control motors for moving and/or adjusting components and/or quantities). A typical data processing system may be implemented utilizing any suitable commercially available components, such as those typically found in data computing/communication and/or network computing/communication systems. [0132] The herein described subject matter sometimes illustrates different components contained within, or connected with, different other components. It is to be understood that such depicted architectures are merely examples, and that in fact many other architectures can be implemented which achieve the same functionality. In a conceptual sense, any arrangement of components to achieve the same functionality is effectively "associated" such that the desired functionality is achieved. Hence, any two components herein combined to achieve a particular functionality can be seen as "associated with" each other such that the desired functionality is achieved, irrespective of architectures or intermedial components. Likewise, any two components so associated can also be viewed as being "operably connected", or "operably coupled", to each other to achieve the desired functionality, and any two components capable of being so associated can also be viewed as being "operably couplable", to each other to achieve the desired functionality. Specific examples of operably couplable include but are not limited to physically mateable and/or physically interacting components and/or wirelessly interactable and/or wirelessly interacting components and/or logically interacting and/or logically interactable components.

[0133] While various aspects and examples have been disclosed herein, other aspects and examples will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and examples disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A method of forming a plurality of coated oat hull fibers, the method comprising:

treating a plurality of oat hulls in a first solution to remove at least some of lignin or silica from the plurality of oat hulls;

removing at least some of the first solution from the plurality of oat hulls;

mixing a second solution with the plurality of oat hulls to form a slurry, the second solution comprises trehalose; and

ultrasonicating the slurry to at least partially coat the plurality of oat hulls with the trehalose and reduce the average particle size of the plurality of oat hulls to form a plurality of at least partially coated oat hulls.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein treating the plurality of oat hulls in the first solution comprises ultrasonicating the plurality of oat hulls and the first solution.

3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first solution comprises at least one diluent mixed with at least one basic component.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein the at least one basic component comprises at least one alkali metal hydroxide.

5. The method of claim 1 , wherein treating the plurality of oat hulls in the first solution comprises monitoring at least one of a pH, temperature, or pressure of the first solution.

6. The method of claim 5, further comprising, responsive to monitoring at least one of the pH, the temperature, or the pressure of the first solution, at least one of: adding at least one diluent to the first solution;

adding at least one basic component to the first solution;

adding additional oat hulls to the first solution;

increasing or decreasing a temperature of the first solution; or

increasing or decreasing a pressure applied to the first solution.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the acts of treating the plurality of oat hulls in the first solution and mixing the second solution with the plurality of oat hulls are performed substantially simultaneously.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein removing at least some of the first solution from the plurality of oat hulls comprises recycling at least some of the first solution removed from the plurality of oat hulls, wherein recycling at least some of the first solution comprises at least one of:

decanting the at least some of the first solution; or

filtering the at least some of the first solution.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein the acts of mixing the second solution with the plurality of oat hulls and ultrasonicating the slurry are performed substantially simultaneously.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein mixing the second solution with the plurality of oat hulls to form the slurry comprises mixing an amount of trehalose with the plurality of oat hulls that is less than the plurality of oat hulls.

11. The method of claim 1, wherein ultrasonicating the slurry comprises reducing the average particle size of the plurality of at least partially coated oat hulls to about 200 μιτι or less.

12. The method of claim 1, wherein ultrasonicating the slurry to at least partially coat the plurality of oat hulls with the trehalose comprises ultrasonicating the slurry to substantially completely coat the plurality of oat hulls with the trehalose.

13. The method of claim 1, further comprising reducing the average particle size the plurality of oat hulls to less than about 850 μιτι.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein reducing the average particle size the plurality of oat hulls comprises:

disposing the plurality of oat hulls in a liquid component; and

ultrasonicating the plurality of oat hulls and the liquid component.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein ultrasonicating the plurality of oat hulls and the liquid component comprises reducing an average particle size of the oat hulls to less than about 25 μηι.

16. The method of claim 14, wherein ultrasonicating the plurality of oat hulls and the liquid component comprises ultrasonicating the plurality of oat hulls and the liquid component at a single frequency.

17. The method of claim 14, wherein ultrasonicating the plurality of oat hulls and the liquid component comprises ultrasonicating the plurality of oat hulls and the liquid component at a dual frequency.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein ultrasonicating the plurality of oat hulls and the liquid component at the dual frequency comprises ultrasonicating the plurality of oat hulls and the liquid component at a first frequency and a second frequency that is different than the first frequency, wherein the first frequency is in a range from about 10 kHz to about 20 kHz and the second frequency is in a range from about 15 kHz to about 25 kHz.

19. The method of claim 14, wherein ultrasonicating the plurality of oat hulls and the liquid component comprises ultrasonicating the plurality of oat hulls and the liquid component at a temperature in a range from about 150 °C to about 200 °C and at a pressure in a range from about 100 kPa to about 175 kPa.

20. The method of claim 14, wherein

the liquid component comprises the first solution; and

treating the plurality of oat hulls in the first solution and ultrasonicating the plurality of oat hulls and the liquid component are performed substantially simultaneously.

21. The method of claim 13, wherein reducing the average particle size the plurality of oat hulls is performed before treating the plurality of oat hulls in the first solution.

22. The method of claim 1, wherein ultrasonicating the slurry comprises ultrasonicating the slurry at a single frequency.

23. The method of claim 1 , wherein ultrasonicating the plurality of oat hulls and the liquid component at a single frequency comprises ultrasonicating the slurry for about 2.5 minutes to about 10 minutes.

24. The method of claim 1, wherein ultrasonicating the slurry comprises ultrasonicating the slurry at a dual frequency.

25. The method of claim 24, wherein ultrasonicating the slurry at a dual frequency comprises ultrasonicating the slurry for less than 1 minute.

26. The method of claim 24, wherein ultrasonicating the slurry at the dual frequency comprises ultrasonicating the slurry at a first frequency and a second frequency that is different than the first frequency, wherein the first frequency is in a range from about 10 kHz to about 20 kHz and the second frequency is in range from about 15 kHz to about 25 kHz.

27. The method of claim 24, wherein ultrasonicating the slurry at the dual frequency comprises ultrasonicating the slurry with ultrasonic energy exhibiting about 25 W/lbs to about 125 W/lbs .

28. The method of claim 1, wherein ultrasonicating the slurry comprises ultrasonicating the slurry at a temperature in a range from about 150 °C to about 200 °C and at a pressure in a range from about 100 kPa to about 175 kPa.

29. The method of claim 1, wherein ultrasonicating the slurry comprises reducing the average particle size of the plurality of oat hulls to less than about 45 μιτι.

30. The method of claim 1, wherein ultrasonicating the slurry comprises reducing the average particles size of the plurality of oat hulls to less than about 10 μιτι.

31. The method of claim 1 , further comprising, before mixing the second solution with the plurality of oat hulls to form the slurry, dissolving the trehalose in at least one of water, ethanol, or methanol at a temperature greater than room temperature.

32. The method of claim 1 , further comprising, after mixing the second solution with the plurality of oat hulls to form the slurry, heating the plurality of at least partially coated oat hulls to a temperature greater than about 100 °C effective to at least partially sterilize the plurality of at least partially coated oat hulls.

33. The method of claim 1 , further comprising substantially simultaneously with or after mixing the second solution with the plurality of oat hulls, adding at least one probiotic to the second solution.

34. The method of claim 33, wherein adding at least one probiotic to the second solution comprises adding the at least one probiotic to the second solution when the second solution exhibits a temperature of less than about 50 °C.

35. The method of claim 33, wherein ultrasonicating the slurry comprises completely coating the plurality of oat hulls and the at least one probiotic with the trehalose.

36. The method of claim 33, wherein the at least one probiotic comprises one or more of at least one lactobacillus, at least one bifidobacterium, at least one bacillus coagulan, or at least one saccharomyces boulardii.

37. The method of claim 33, wherein the at least one probiotic comprises one or more of at least one bacillus, at least one lactobacillus, at least one enterococcus faecium, at least one ruminobacter amylophilum, or at least one streptococcus thermophiles.

38. The method of claim 1 , further comprising drying the slurry.

39. The method of claim 38, wherein drying the slurry comprises spray drying the slurry.

40. The method of claim 39, wherein spray drying the slurry comprises reducing a moisture content of the slurry to a concentration in a range from about 1 weight % to about 8 weight %.

41. The method of claim 38, wherein drying the slurry comprises vacuum drying the slurry.

42. The method of claim 41, wherein vacuum drying the slurry comprises reducing a moisture content of the slurry to a concentration in a range from about 8 weight % to about 20 weight %.

43. The method of claim 38, wherein drying the slurry comprises drying the slurry using a fluid bed drying technique.

44. The method of claim 1, further comprising mixing the at least partially coated oat hulls with at least one additional component.

45. The method of claim 44, wherein the at least one additional component comprises at least one vitamin, at least one mineral, or yeast.

46. The method of claim 1, further comprising disposing the plurality of at least partially coated oat hulls in a moisture free, fluid tight packaging; the moisture free, fluid tight packaging exhibiting a substantially moisture impermeable barrier.

47. An oat hull fiber product, comprising:

a plurality of coated oat hulls fibers comprising:

a plurality of oat hull fibers exhibiting a lower concentration of lignin and silica than unprocessed oat hull fibers, the plurality of oat hull fibers present in about 40 weight % or greater of the oat hull fiber product; and

trehalose at least partially coating at least some of the plurality of oat hull fibers, wherein the trehalose is present in the plurality of coated oat hull fibers in an amount less than the plurality of oat hull fibers.

48. The oat hull fiber product of claim 47, wherein the plurality of coated oat hull fibers are present in a concentration of at least 50 weight % of the oat hull fiber product.

49. The oat hull fiber product of claim 47, wherein the plurality of coated oat hull fibers exhibits a bulk density in a range from about 0.6 g/cc to about 0.8 g/cc.

50. The oat hull fiber product of claim 47, wherein the plurality of coated oat hull fibers exhibits an average particle size that is less than about 200 μιη.

51. The oat hull fiber product of claim 47, wherein the plurality of coated oat hull fibers exhibits an average particle size that is less than 20 μιτι.

52. The oat hull fiber product of claim 47, wherein the plurality of coated oat hull fibers exhibits an average particle size that is in a range from about 2 μιτι to about 10 μιτι.

53. The oat hull fiber product of claim 47, wherein the plurality of oat hull fibers comprise soluble fibers in a range from about 48 weight % to 52 weight % and a remainder of the plurality of oat hull fibers comprise insoluble fibers.

54. The oat hull fiber product of claim 47, wherein the plurality of oat hull fibers exhibit greater than about 52 weight % soluble fibers.

55. The oat hull fiber product of claim 47, wherein the trehalose completely coats the plurality of oat hull fibers.

56. The oat hull fiber product of claim 47, wherein the trehalose is present in the plurality of coated oat hull fibers in a range from about 30 weight % or less.

57. The oat hull fiber product of claim 47, wherein a moisture content of the plurality of coated oat hull fibers is in a range from about 1 weight % to about 8 weight %.

58. The oat hull fiber product of claim 47, wherein the plurality of oat hull fibers comprises at least one probiotic.

59. The oat hull fiber product of claim 58, wherein the at least one probiotic is at least substantially completely embedded in or coated by the trehalose.

60. The oat hull fiber product of claim 58, wherein the at least one probiotic is present in the plurality of coated oat hull fibers in a range from greater than zero to less than about 15 weight %.

61. The oat hull fiber product of claim 58, wherein the at least one probiotic comprises one or more of at least one lactobacillus, at least one bifidobacterium, at least one bacillus coagulans, or at least one saccharomyces boulardii.

62. The oat hull fiber product of claim 58, wherein the at least one probiotic comprises one or more of at least one bacillus, at least one lactobacillus, at least one enterococcus faecium, at least one ruminobacter amylophilum, or at least one streptococcus thermophiles.

63. The oat hull fiber product of claim 58, wherein the plurality of coat oat hull fibers exhibits a moisture content in a range from about 8 weight % to about 20 weight %.

64. The oat hull fiber product of claim 47, further comprising one or more of at least one vitamin, at least one mineral, or yeast.

65. A plurality of coated oat hull fibers, comprising:

a plurality of oat hull fibers exhibiting a lower concentration of lignin and silica than unprocessed oat hulls; and

trehalose at least partially coating the plurality of oat hull fibers, wherein the trehalose is present in the plurality of coated oat hull fibers in a range from about 30 weight % or less.

66. The plurality of coated oat hull fibers of claim 65, wherein the plurality of oat hull fibers exhibits an average particle size that is less than 20 μιτι.

67. The plurality of coated oat hull fibers of claim 65, wherein the plurality of oat hull fibers exhibits an average particle size that is in a range from about 2 μιτι to about 10 μιη.

68. The plurality of coated oat hull fibers of claim 65, wherein the trehalose completely coats the plurality of oat hull fibers.

69. The plurality of coated oat hull fibers of claim 65, further comprising at least one probiotic.

70. The plurality of coated oat hull fibers of claim 69, wherein the at least one probiotic is at least substantially completely embedded in or coated by the trehalose.

71. The plurality of coated oat hull fibers of claim 69, wherein the at least one probiotic is present in the plurality of coated oat hull fibers in a range from greater than zero to less than about 15 weight %.

72. A system for forming a plurality of coated oat hull fibers, the system comprising:

at least one container that is configured to hold a plurality of oat hulls, at least one first solution, and at least one second solution;

at least one oat hull source that comprises the plurality of oat hulls therein and is configured to dispense at least some of the plurality of oat hulls into the at least one container;

at least one first solution source that comprises the at least one first solution therein and is positioned and configured to dispense at least some of the at least one first solution into the at least one container, wherein the at least one first solution comprises at least one diluent and at least one basic component;

at least one second solution source that comprises the at least one second solution therein and is positioned and configured to dispense at least one the at least one second solution into the at least one container, wherein the at least one second solution comprises trehalose;

at least one solution removal device that is configured to remove the at least one first solution from the at least one container; and

at least one mixer that is configured to mix the plurality of oat hulls, the at least one first solution, or the at least one second solution when the plurality of oat hulls, the at least one first solution, or the at least one second solution is in the at least one container, wherein the at least one mixer comprises at least one ultrasonic driver.

73. The system of claim 72, further comprising a pump coupled to the at least one container, wherein the pump is configured to apply a selected pressure to the plurality of oat hulls, the at least one first solution, or the at least one second solution when the plurality of oat hulls, the at least one first solution, or the at least one second solution are in the at least one container.

74. The system of claim 72, further comprising a heater coupled to the at least one container, wherein the heater is configured to apply a selected temperature to the plurality of oat hulls, the at least one first solution, or the at least one second solution when the plurality of oat hulls, the at least one first solution, or the at least one second solution are in the at least one container.

75. The system of claim 72, further comprising a controller operably coupled to and configured to at least partially control an operation of the at least one oat hull source, the at least one first solution source, the at least one second solution source, the at least one solution removal device, or the at least one mixer.

76. The system of claim 75, further comprising one or more sensors that are operably coupled to the controller, the one or more sensors are configured to sense one or more characteristics of the at least one container or at least one of the plurality of oat hulls, the at least one first solution, or the at least one second solution when the plurality of oat hulls, the at least one first solution, or the at least one second solution are in the at least one container;

wherein the controller is configured to at least partially control the operation of the at least one oat hull source, the at least one first solution source, the at least one second solution source, the at least one solution removal device, or the at least one mixer responsive to the sensors sensing one or more characteristics of:

the at least one container; or

at least one of the plurality of oat hulls, the at least one first solution, or the at least one second solution when the plurality of oat hulls, the at least one first solution, or the at least one second solution are in the at least one container.

77. The system of claim 72, wherein the at least one ultrasonic driver is configured to emit ultrasonic energy at a single frequency.

78. The system of claim 72, wherein the at least one ultrasonic driver is configured to emit ultrasonic energy at a dual frequency.

79. The system of claim 76, wherein the at least one ultrasonic driver is configured to emit ultrasonic energy at a first frequency and a second frequency that is different than the first frequency, wherein the first frequency is in a range from about 10 kHz to about 20 kHz and the second frequency is in a range from about 15 kHz to about 25 kHz.