Source: TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY submitted to
INVESTIGATION OF CONTROL MEASURES FOR SALMONELLA, CAMPYLOBACTER, AND COCCIDIA IN COMMERCIAL POULTRY
Sponsoring Institution
National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Project Status
TERMINATED
Funding Source
Reporting Frequency
Annual
Accession No.
0178494
Grant No.
(N/A)
Project No.
TEX08594
Proposal No.
(N/A)
Multistate No.
(N/A)
Program Code
(N/A)
Project Start Date
Jun 8, 2010
Project End Date
Jan 27, 2014
Grant Year
(N/A)
Project Director
Caldwell, DA, J..
Recipient Organization
TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY
750 AGRONOMY RD STE 2701
COLLEGE STATION,TX 77843-0001
Performing Department
Poultry Science
Non Technical Summary
Bacterial foodborne infection in humans is frequently caused by Salmonella and Campylobacter linked to poultry as a source of infection. The current five year plan has a specific focus on identifying methods for reducing both Salmonella and Campylobacter in poultry and in the poultry rearing environment. If proven effective, improvements in human health by improving poultry food safety may be achievable. Avian coccidiosis is the most economically important parasitic disease of commercially reared poultry. By improving the effectiveness of vaccination or immunization of commercial poultry against coccidiosis, the boost in immunity or resistance that develops in commercial poultry flocks will reduce the dependence on chemotherapeutic methods of control, and as such increase production parameters including weight gain and improved feed conversion during the normal production cycle. Such research has the ultimate goal of improving disease resistance in commercially reared poultry, which in turns allows poultry to be reared on a more cost feasible basis.
Animal Health Component
60%
Research Effort Categories
Basic
100%
Applied
(N/A)
Developmental
(N/A)
Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)Subject of Investigation (SOI)Field of Science (FOS)Percent
3113299109025%
3133299110325%
3153299110050%
Goals / Objectives
Specific objectives of this five year plan are: Objective 1-To investigate methods or mechanisms with the potential to reduce Salmonella and/or Campylobacter in commercial poultry or poultry products. Within this overall objective, two specific objectives exist: a)Evaluation of probiotic administration during feed withdrawal for control of Salmonella and/or Campylobacter in commercial broiler chickens; b)Identification of new methods of sanitizing poultry rearing premises to reduce resident Salmonella and/or Campylobacter. Objective 2-To identify factors which influence, either positively or negatively, coccidiosis vaccination in commercial broiler and broiler breeder chickens. Within this overall objective, two specific objectives exist: a)Influence of nutritional factors or probiotic administration on broiler or broiler breeder performance during coccidiosis vaccination; b)Effect of administration of the anticoccidial drug amprolium on coccidiosis vaccination in commercial broiler breeder chickens.
Project Methods
Objective 1a: In a series of research trials conducted within pathogen-challenge facilities located on the Texas A&M University (TAMU) campus, we will challenge market age (42-49 days of age) broiler chickens with both Salmonella and Campylobacter and evaluate the effect of probiotic administration on bacterial colonization and shedding during simulated commercial feed withdrawal. Findings from these controlled trials will then be extended by evaluating similar parameters of Salmonella and Campylobacter contamination under commercial rearing conditions to identify the real world potential of probiotic administration as a control measure during pre-slaughter feed withdrawal. Objective 1b: Fire fighting foam is currently used within the commercial poultry industry for mass euthanasia where infectious microorganisms are identified in commercial poultry flocks. In research conducted within this five year plan, we will focus upon using disinfectants in fire fighting foam to remediate Salmonella and/or Campylobacter from poultry premises under experimental and commercial settings. Objective 2a: Our laboratory has recently reported that a slightly elevated dietary protein level and adjusted amino acid profile can positively improve broiler performance during coccidiosis vaccination as compared to using an anticoccidial drug. Using our previous work as a guide, we will evaluate the influence of dietary protein and amino acid profile for broiler breeder performance during coccidiosis vaccination. During these controlled experiments conducted at the TAMU research farm, we will investigate the parameters of this objective across many different genetic lines of broiler breeders throughout different seasons of the year. Further, we will investigate the influence of administering probiotics during simulated commercial rearing of broiler chickens by measuring broiler performance following coccidiosis vaccination. Objective 2b: Coccidiosis vaccination of broiler breeder flocks in commercial settings is often accompanied by the subsequent administration of the anticoccidial drug, amprolium. Since non-attenuated coccidiosis vaccines often cause mild to moderate infection within two weeks following vaccination, such infection has the potential to impact performance and body weight uniformity in vaccinated animals. To offset this potential performance loss, commercial producers frequently administer amprolium to minimize the negative effects of vaccine-induced infection. Currently within the commercial industry, a tremendous degree of variability exists with how to appropriately use amprolium during commercial rearing. In a series of trials over different seasons of rearing, broiler breeder performance and indices of immunity will be measured in several distinct genetic lines of broiler breeders following coccidiosis vaccination with or without subsequent amprolium administration.

Progress 06/08/10 to 01/27/14

Outputs
Target Audience: Scientists, veterinarians, poultry industry personnel Changes/Problems: Terminating project one year early due to change in job title / move to administration What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Nothing Reported How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Presentationas at National / International scientific meetings and peer-reviewed scientific publications. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? The overall objective of my Five Year Project is to investigate methods for controlling Salmonella, Campylobacter, and coccidia in commercially reared poultry. During the time since the approval date, significant progress has been made to contribute to the long-term sustainability of the project. To assist with making progress in the area of vaccinating commercial poultry against avian coccidiosis, we have reported the findings from research conducted under this project at several regional and national meetings of poultry researchers, health professionals, and industry personnel over the past year. Infection of the small intestine and ceca by several species of the protozoan parasite Eimeria in commercial poultry flocks costs the commercial industry in the U.S. somewhere between 300 and 750 million dollars annually. Of importance to commercial growers at present is the escalating degree of chemical resistance to once effective anti-coccidial drugs. This drug resistance renders once very effective anti-coccidial drugs ineffective for controlling the economic losses related to infection. One attractive solution our laboratory is investigating deals with improvement of vaccinating poultry against the most important species of Eimeria. Over the course of the past year, we have reported the findings of our research at national and regional scientific meetings. Attendees at these conferences included poultry researchers, veterinarians, and personnel from commercial broiler production companies and primary breeding companies. We’ve also published our findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Publications


    Progress 01/01/12 to 12/31/12

    Outputs
    OUTPUTS: The overall objective of my Five Year Project is to investigate methods for controlling Salmonella, Campylobacter, and coccidia in commercially reared poultry. During the time since the approval date, significant progress has been made to contribute to the long-term sustainability of the project. To assist with making progress in the area of vaccinating commercial poultry against avian coccidiosis, we have reported the findings from research conducted under this project at several regional and national meetings of poultry researchers, health professionals, and industry personnel over the past year. Infection of the small intestine and ceca by several species of the protozoan parasite Eimeria in commercial poultry flocks costs the commercial industry in the U.S. somewhere between 300 and 750 million dollars annually. Of importance to commercial growers at present is the escalating degree of chemical resistance to once effective anti-coccidial drugs. This drug resistance renders once very effective anti-coccidial drugs ineffective for controlling the economic losses related to infection. One attractive solution our laboratory is investigating deals with improvement of vaccinating poultry against the most important species of Eimeria. Over the course of the past year, we have reported the findings of our research at national and regional scientific meetings. Attendees at these conferences included poultry researchers, veterinarians, and personnel from commercial broiler production companies and primary breeding companies. We've also published our findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals. PARTICIPANTS: Not relevant to this project. TARGET AUDIENCES: Not relevant to this project. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.

    Impacts
    By improving the effectiveness of vaccination or immunization of commercial poultry against coccidia, the boost in immunity or resistance that develops in commercial poultry flocks will reduce the dependence on chemotherapeutic methods of control, and as such increase production parameters including weight gain and improved feed conversion during the normal production cycle. Such research has the ultimate goal of improving disease resistance in commercially reared poultry, which in turns allows poultry to be reared on a more cost feasible basis.

    Publications

    • Lee, J.T., K.A. Jessen, R. Beltran, V. Starkl, G. Schatzmayr, R. Bourtova, and D.J. Caldwell. 2012. Mycotoxin-contaminated diets and deactivating compound in laying chickens: 1. Effects on performance characteristics and relative organ weight. Poult. Sci. 91: 2089-2095.
    • Lee, J.T., K.A. Jessen, R. Beltran, V. Starkl, G. Schatzmayr, R. Bourtova, and D.J. Caldwell. 2012. Mycotoxin-contaminated diets and deactivating compound in laying chickens: 2. Effects on white shell egg quality and characteristics.Poult. Sci. 91: 2096-2104.
    • Iselt, S., J. Lee, M. Farnell, M. Ficken, U. Hofstetter, R. Beltran, G. Schatzmayr, and D. Caldwell. 2012. Effects of mycotoxin contaminated diets on histopathology and antibody titer following viral vaccination in young replacement layer pullets. Poult. Sci. 91: Supp. 1.
    • Hinojosa, C., D. Caldwell, M. Ross, S. Iselt, J. Garcia, J. Hoffman, K. Stringfellow, R. Latham, J. Lee, J. Byrd, and M. Farnell. 2012. Use of foaming disinfectants to reduce aerobic bacteria on poultry transport coops.Poult. Sci. 91: Supp. 1.
    • Garcia, J.S., J.A. Byrd, and D.J. Caldwell. 2012. Evaluation of the influence of infectious bronchitis virus vaccination on Salmonella or Campylobacter colonization in young broilers.Poult. Sci. 91: Supp. 1.


    Progress 01/01/11 to 12/31/11

    Outputs
    OUTPUTS: The overall objective of my Five Year Project is to investigate methods for controlling Salmonella, Campylobacter, and coccidia in commercially reared poultry. During the time since the approval date, significant progress has been made to contribute to the long-term sustainability of the project. To assist with making progress in the area of vaccinating commercial poultry against avian coccidiosis, we have reported the findings from research conducted under this project at several regional and national meetings of poultry researchers, health professionals, and industry personnel over the past year. Infection of the small intestine and ceca by several species of the protozoan parasite Eimeria in commercial poultry flocks costs the commercial industry in the U.S. somewhere between 300 and 750 million dollars annually. Of importance to commercial growers at present is the escalating degree of chemical resistance to once effective anti-coccidial drugs. This drug resistance renders once very effective anti-coccidial drugs ineffective for controlling the economic losses related to infection. One attractive solution our laboratory is investigating deals with improvement of vaccinating poultry against the most important species of Eimeria. Over the course of the past year, we have reported the findings of our research at national and regional scientific meetings. Attendees at these conferences included poultry researchers, veterinarians, and personnel from commercial broiler production companies and primary breeding companies. We've also published our findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals. PARTICIPANTS: Not relevant to this project. TARGET AUDIENCES: poultry researchers, veterinarians, and personnel from commercial broiler production companies and primary breeding companies PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not relevant to this project.

    Impacts
    By improving the effectiveness of vaccination or immunization of commercial poultry against coccidia, the boost in immunity or resistance that develops in commercial poultry flocks will reduce the dependence on chemotherapeutic methods of control, and as such increase production parameters including weight gain and improved feed conversion during the normal production cycle. Such research has the ultimate goal of improving disease resistance in commercially reared poultry, which in turns allows poultry to be reared on a more cost feasible basis.

    Publications

    • Jordan, A., D.J. Caldwell, J. Klein, J. Coppedge, S. Pohl, S. Fitz-Coy, and J.T. Lee. 2011. Eimeria tenella oocyst shedding and output in cecal or fecal contents following experimental challenge in broilers. Poult. Sci. 90:990-995.
    • Byrd, J.A., A.R. Sams, B.M. Hargis, and D.J. Caldwell. 2011. Effect of selected modified atmosphere packaging on Campylobacter survival in raw poultry. Poult. Sci. 90:1324-1328.
    • Beier, R.C., P.N. Anderson, M.E. Hume, T.L. Poole, S.E. Duke, T.L. Crippen, C.L. Sheffield, D.J. Caldwell, J.A. Byrd, R.C. Anderson, and D.J. Nisbet. 2011. Characterization of Salmonella enterica isolates from turkeys in commercial processing plants for resistance to antibiotics, disinfectants, and a growth promoter. Foodborne Pathog. Dis. 8(5):593-600.
    • Lee, J.T., N.H. Eckert, K.A. Ameiss, S.M. Stevens, P.N. Anderson, S.M. Anderson, A. Barri, A.P. McElroy, H.D. Danforth, and D.J. Caldwell. 2011. The effect of dietary protein level on performance characteristics of coccidiosis-vaccinated broilers following mixed species Eimeria challenge. Poult. Sci. 90:1916-1925.
    • Stringfellow, K., D. Caldwell, J. Lee, M. Mohnl, R. Beltran, G. Schatzmayr, S. Fitz-Coy, C. Broussard, and M. Farnell. 2011. Evaluation of probiotic administration on the immune response of coccidiosis-vaccinated broilers. Poult. Sci. 90:1652-1658.
    • Oden, L., D. Caldwell, S. Pohl, A. Klein, S. Anderson, S. Young, C. Broussard, S. Fitz-Coy, L. Newman, and J. Lee. 2011. Influence of diet on performance parameters in replacement broiler breeders following live oocyst coccidiosis vaccination. J. Appl. Poult. Res. 20:401-408.
    • Oden, L., J. Lee, S. Pohl, A. Klein, S. Anderson, S. Young, C. Broussard, S. Fitz-Coy, L. Newman, and D. Caldwell. 2011. Influence of diet on oocyst output and intestinal lesion development in replacement broiler breeders following live oocyst coccidiosis vaccination. J. Appl. Poult. Res. Accepted.


    Progress 01/01/10 to 12/31/10

    Outputs
    OUTPUTS: The overall objective of my Five Year Project is to investigate methods for controlling Salmonella, Campylobacter, and coccidia in commercially reared poultry. This five year project received approval on May 26, 2004, and during the time since this approval date, significant progress has been made to contribute to the long-term sustainability of the project. To assist with making progress in the area of vaccinating commercial poultry against avian coccidiosis, we have reported the findings from research conducted under this project at several regional and national meetings of poultry researchers, health professionals, and industry personnel over the past year (2009). Infection of the small intestine and ceca by several species of the protozoan parasite Eimeria in commercial poultry flocks costs the commercial industry in the U.S. somewhere between 300 and 750 million dollars annually. Of paramount importance to commercial growers at present is the escalating degree of chemical resistance to once effective anti-coccidial drugs. This drug resistance renders once very effective anti-coccidial drugs ineffective for controlling the economic losses related to infection. One attractive solution our laboratory is investigating deals with improvement of vaccinating poultry against the most important species of Eimeria. Over the course of the past year, we have reported the findings of our research, focusing upon the impact of management, diet, and probiotic administration on coccidiosis vaccination of commercial strain broilers and replacement broiler breeders at the Southern Poultry Science Society 2009 Annual Meeting, the 2009 Southern Conference on Avian Diseases, and the Annual (2009) Meeting of the Poultry Science Association. Attendees at these conferences included poultry researchers, veterinarians, and personnel from commercial broiler production companies and primary breeding companies. PARTICIPANTS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. TARGET AUDIENCES: The target audience for this project includes poultry researchers, production personnel in the commercial industry, and veterinarians / poultry health personnel. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

    Impacts
    By improving the effectiveness of vaccination or immunization of commercial poultry against coccidia, the boost in immunity or resistance that develops in commercial poultry flocks will reduce the dependence on chemotherapeutic methods of control, and as such increase production parameters including weight gain and improved feed conversion during the normal production cycle. Such research has the ultimate goal of improving disease resistance in commercially reared poultry, which in turns allows poultry to be reared on a more cost feasible basis.

    Publications

    • Eckert, N.H., J.T. Lee, D. Hyatt, S.M. Stevens, S. Anderson, P.N. Anderson, G. Schatzmayr, M. Mohnl, and D.J. Caldwell. 2010. Influence of probiotic administration by feed or water on growth parameters of broilers reared on medicated and non-medicated diets. J. Appl. Poultry Res. 19:59-67.
    • Anderson, P.N., M.E. Hume, J.A. Byrd, C. Hernandez, S.M. Stevens, K. Stringfellow, and D.J. Caldwell. 2010. Evaluation of repetitive extragenic palindromic-PCR and denatured gradient gel electrophoresis in identifying Salmonella serotypes isolated from processed turkeys. Poult. Sci. 89:1293-1300.
    • Anderson, P.N., M.E. Hume, J.A. Byrd, C. Hernandez, S.M. Stevens, K. Stringfellow, and D.J. Caldwell. 2010. Molecular analysis of Salmonella serotypes at different stages of commercial turkey processing. Poult. Sci. 89: 2030-2037.


    Progress 01/01/09 to 12/31/09

    Outputs
    OUTPUTS: The overall objective of my Five Year Project is to investigate methods for controlling Salmonella, Campylobacter, and coccidia in commercially reared poultry. This five year project received approval on May 26, 2004, and during the time since this approval date, significant progress has been made to contribute to the long-term sustainability of the project. To assist with making progress in the area of vaccinating commercial poultry against avian coccidiosis, we have reported the findings from research conducted under this project at several regional and national meetings of poultry researchers, health professionals, and industry personnel over the past year (2009). Infection of the small intestine and ceca by several species of the protozoan parasite Eimeria in commercial poultry flocks costs the commercial industry in the U.S. somewhere between 300 and 750 million dollars annually. Of paramount importance to commercial growers at present is the escalating degree of chemical resistance to once effective anti-coccidial drugs. This drug resistance renders once very effective anti-coccidial drugs ineffective for controlling the economic losses related to infection. One attractive solution our laboratory is investigating deals with improvement of vaccinating poultry against the most important species of Eimeria. Over the course of the past year, we have reported the findings of our research, focusing upon the impact of management, diet, and probiotic administration on coccidiosis vaccination of commercial strain broilers and replacement broiler breeders at the Southern Poultry Science Society 2009 Annual Meeting, the 2009 Southern Conference on Avian Diseases, and the Annual (2009) Meeting of the Poultry Science Association. Attendees at these conferences included poultry researchers, veterinarians, and personnel from commercial broiler production companies and primary breeding companies. PARTICIPANTS: Not relevant to this project. TARGET AUDIENCES: Poultry health professionals and veterinarians, poultry researchers, industry production personnel, and poultry extension specialists PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

    Impacts
    By improving the effectiveness of vaccination or immunization of commercial poultry against coccidia, the boost in immunity or resistance that develops in commercial poultry flocks will reduce the dependence on chemotherapeutic methods of control, and as such increase production parameters including weight gain and improved feed conversion during the normal production cycle. Such research has the ultimate goal of improving disease resistance in commercially reared poultry, which in turns allows poultry to be reared on a more cost feasible basis.

    Publications

    • Telg, B.E., and Caldwell, D.J. (2009). Efficacy testing of a defined competitive exclusion product in combination with fructooligosaccharide for protection against Salmonella Typhimurium challenge in broiler chicks. J. Appl. Poultry Res. 18:521-529.
    • Hargis, B.M., Byrd, J.A., and Caldwell, D.J. (2009). Microbial Pathogens of Poultry: Live Bird Considerations. In: Poultry Meat Processing. C.M. Owens and C.Z. Alvarado, eds. CRC Press.
    • Stringfellow, K., Anderson, P., Caldwell, D., Lee, J., Byrd, J., McReynolds, J., Carey, J., and Farnell, M.B. (2009). Evaluation of disinfectants commonly used by the commercial poultry industry under simulated field conditions. Poult. Sci. 88:1151-1155.
    • Lee, J.T., Broussard, C., Fitz-Coy, S., Burke, P., Eckert, N.H., Stevens, S.M., Anderson, P., Anderson, S.M., and Caldwell, D.J. (2009). Evaluation of live oocyst vaccination or salinomycin for control of field-strain Eimeria challenge in broilers on two different feeding programs. J. Appl. Poultry Res. 18:458-464.


    Progress 01/01/08 to 12/31/08

    Outputs
    OUTPUTS: The overall objective of my recently revised TAES Five Year Project is to investigate methods for controlling Salmonella, Campylobacter, and coccidia in commercially reared poultry. This five year project received approval on May 26, 2004, and during the time since this approval date, significant progress has been made to contribute to the long-term sustainability of the project. Within the commercial turkey processing environment, we will compare Salmonella and Campylobacter recovery from processed turkey carcasses prior to, and following several different pre-chill intervention strategies (high pressure wash cabinets, sprays, and pH modification of the scald environment) in several distinct turkey processing facilities. This research is aimed at helping the industry provide a safer product through science-based, effective reduction strategies for these pathogens from farm to table. To investigate potential new methods of immunizing commercial poultry against avian coccidiosis, we will explore several previously uninvestigated parameters related to the development of immunity to coccidia in commercial strain chickens. The rationale for this area of this project revision is despite the advancements made in coccidial immunization in recent years, many unknowns still remain with regard to the pathogenesis of the parasite. Our laboratory recently finished the second phase of a multi-state, multi-operation survey of commercial turkey processing facilities in an attempt to identify best management practices for reducing the presence of bacterial food borne pathogens on processed turkey carcasses. We were successful in characterizing and identifying several management-based microbial intervention strategies used post-evisceration and during immersion chilling of post-eviscerated carcasses in these commercial operations. Working in conjunction with the U.S. Poultry and Egg Association, the National Turkey Federation, and several commercial integrators and processors, we have begun the dissemination of these findings on a widespread basis in an effort to implement these successful microbial reduction strategies on an industry-wide basis. Infection of the small intestine and ceca by several species of the protozoan parasite Eimeria in commercial poultry flocks costs the commercial industry in the U.S. somewhere between 300 and 750 million dollars annually. Of paramount importance to commercial growers at present is the escalating degree of chemical resistance to once effective anti-coccidial drugs. This drug resistance renders once very effective anti-coccidial drugs ineffective for controlling the economic losses related to infection. One attractive solution our laboratory is investigating deals with improvement of vaccinating poultry against the most important species of Eimeria. PARTICIPANTS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. TARGET AUDIENCES: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

    Impacts
    The societal impact of identifying practical, management based solutions for reducing food borne pathogens on processed poultry focuses on improvements in human health. By reducing the presence of food borne pathogens on processed poultry and poultry products, food borne infection by Salmonella and Campylobacter can presumably be reduced. Further, by improving the effectiveness of vaccination or immunization of commercial poultry against coccidia, the boost in immunity or resistance that develops in commercial poultry flocks will reduce the dependence on chemotherapeutic methods of control, and as such increase production parameters including weight gain and improved feed conversion during the normal production cycle. Such research has the ultimate goal of improving disease resistance in commercially reared poultry, which in turns allows poultry to be reared on a more cost feasible basis.

    Publications

    • Gutierrez, O., C. Zhang, D.J. Caldwell, J.B. Carey, A.L. Cartwright, and C.A. Bailey. 2008. Guar meal diets as an alternative approach to inducing molt and improving Salmonella enteritidis resistance in late-phase laying hens. Poult. Sci. 87:536-540.
    • Abi-Ghanem, D., S.D. Waghela, D.J. Caldwell, H.D. Danforth, and L.R. Berghman. 2008. Phage display selection and characteristics of single chain recombinant antibodies against Eimeria tenella sporozoites. Vet. Immunol. Immunopathol. 121:58-67.
    • Archer, G.S., T.H. Friend, D. Caldwell, K. Ameiss, P.D. Krawczel, C. Iacono, H. Keen, and T. Martin. 2008. Impacts of feeding several components of the seaweed Ascophyllum nodosum on transported lambs. Anim. Feed Sci. Tech. 140:258-271.
    • Hassan, S.M., A.K. El-Gayer, D.J. Caldwell, C.A. Bailey, and A.L. Cartwright. 2008. Guar meal ameliorates Eimeria tenella infection in broiler chicks. Vet. Parisitol. 157: 133-138.


    Progress 01/01/07 to 12/31/07

    Outputs
    OUTPUTS: The overall objective of my recently revised TAES Five Year Project is to investigate methods for controlling Salmonella, Campylobacter, and coccidia in commercially reared poultry. This five year project received approval on May 26, 2004, and during the time since this approval date, significant progress has been made to contribute to the long-term sustainability of the project. To investigate potential new methods of immunizing commercial poultry against avian coccidiosis, we will explore several previously uninvestigated parameters related to the development of immunity to coccidia in commercial strain chickens. The rationale for this area of this project revision is despite the advancements made in coccidial immunization in recent years, many unknowns still remain with regard to the pathogenesis of the parasite. Our laboratory recently finished the second phase of a multi-state, multi-operation survey of commercial turkey processing facilities in an attempt to identify best management practices for reducing the presence of bacterial food borne pathogens on processed turkey carcasses. We were successful in characterizing and identifying several management-based microbial intervention strategies used post-evisceration and during immersion chilling of post-eviscerated carcasses in these commercial operations. Working in conjunction with the U.S. Poultry and Egg Association, the National Turkey Federation, and several commercial integrators and processors, we have begun the dissemination of these findings on a widespread basis in an effort to implement these successful microbial reduction strategies on an industry-wide basis. Infection of the small intestine and ceca by several species of the protozoan parasite Eimeria in commercial poultry flocks costs the commercial industry in the U.S. somewhere between 300 and 750 million dollars annually. Of paramount importance to commercial growers at present is the escalating degree of chemical resistance to once effective anti-coccidial drugs. This drug resistance renders once very effective anti-coccidial drugs ineffective for controlling the economic losses related to infection. One attractive solution our laboratory is investigating deals with improvement of vaccinating poultry against the most important species of Eimeria. PARTICIPANTS: Jason T. Lee, Ph.D. Morgan B. Farnell, Ph.D. J. Allen Byrd, DVM, Ph.D. Jackson McReynolds, Ph.D. Audrey P. McElroy, Ph.D. National Turkey Federation U.S. Poultry and Egg Assoc. Schering-Plough Animal Health TARGET AUDIENCES: Researchers Commercial Poultry Producers and Processors Animal Health Specialists PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: None

    Impacts
    The societal impact of identifying practical, management based solutions for reducing food borne pathogens on processed poultry focuses on improvements in human health. By reducing the presence of food borne pathogens on processed poultry and poultry products, food borne infection by Salmonella and Campylobacter can presumably be reduced. Further, by improving the effectiveness of vaccination or immunization of commercial poultry against coccidia, the boost in immunity or resistance that develops in commercial poultry flocks will reduce the dependence on chemotherapeutic methods of control, and as such increase production parameters including weight gain and improved feed conversion during the normal production cycle. Such research has the ultimate goal of improving disease resistance in commercially reared poultry, which in turns allows poultry to be reared on a more cost feasible basis.

    Publications

    • McReynolds, J.L., R.W. Moore, A.P. McElroy, B.M. Hargis, and D.J. Caldwell, 2007. Evaluation of a competitive exclusion culture and Megan Vac 1 on Salmonella Typhimurium colonization in neonatal broiler chickens. J. Appl. Poult. Res. 16:456-463.
    • Lee, J.T., N.H. Eckert, S.M. Stevens, S. Anderson, P. Anderson, H.D. Danforth, A.P. McElroy, and D.J. Calwell, 2007. Effect of starter period duration on live oocyst vaccination efficacy adn broiler performance following subsequent Eimeria challenge. Poult. Sci. 86: Supp. 1, 227.
    • Caldwell, D.J., N.H. Eckert, J.T. Lee, S.M. Stevens, R. Beltran, M. Mohnl, and G. Schatzmayr, 2007. Evaluation of drinking water or post-pelleting probiotic administration alone or in combination with a phytogenic product on broiler performance, 2007. Poult. Sci. 86: Supp. 1, 747.


    Progress 01/01/06 to 12/31/06

    Outputs
    Progress has been achieved within both major research objectives for this project. Within the first of two major project objectives, which focuses upon stimulating immunity to avian coccidia through vaccination, recent work completed by a PhD student in my laboratory is encouraging. We found that altering dietary protein level by approximately 0.5% during the early phases of rearing under simulated commercial conditions can markedly improve vaccination efficacy. Improvements in vaccination strategies through simplistic and affordable management-based practices such as this one could reduce the dependence of commercial producers on chemotherapeutic methods of control. Within our second major project objective, significant progress has also been achieved. Following a four year project with commercial turkey processors, another PhD student in my laboratory has begun working on molecular methods which will allow for quick serotype identification of recovered Salmonella isolates at various stages of processing. Our research has found that serotyping can be performed with a relatively high level of precision and at a much more rapid return time than current options available to researchers and industry personnel. Since serotype data are soon to be incorporated into regulatory standards to which poultry processors must comply, these findings could be very useful for Salmonella control programs in broiler and turkey processing plants.

    Impacts
    We've made progress in identifying simple management-based strategies for improving vaccination in commercial broiler chickens against coccidia, a devastating enteric pathogen of all commercially-reared poultry. We've also identified a rapid and reliable molecular method for specicially identifying Salmonella serotypes recovered during commercial turkey processing. Both findings could bring economic and / or food safety impacts to commercial poultry production and processing systems.

    Publications

    • Lee, J.T., N.E. Eckert, S.M. Stevens, P.N. Anderson, S. Anderson, and D.J. Caldwell. 2006. Evaluation of vaccination or ionophore usage for control of field strain Eimeria challenge in broilers on two different (seasonal) feeding programs. J. Appl. Poult. Res., Submitted.
    • Anderson, P.N., M.E. Hume, J.A. Byrd, S.M. Stevens, and D.J. Caldwell. 2006. Molecular analysis of Salmonella serotypes at different stages of commercial turkey processing. Poult. Sci., Submitted


    Progress 01/01/05 to 12/31/05

    Outputs
    The overall objective of this Five Year Project is to investigate methods for controlling Salmonella, Campylobacter, and coccidia in commercially reared poultry. This project received approval on May 26, 2004, and during the time since this approval date, significant progress has been made to contribute to the long-term sustainability of the project. We have continued to conduct practical microbiological research projects with commercial turkey and broiler processors. This research has focused upon helping the industry provide a safer product through science-based, effective microbial reduction strategies for human foodborne pathogens from farm to table. To investigate new potential methods of immunizing commercial poultry against avian coccidiosis, we have explored several previously uninvestigated parameters related to the development of immunity to this enteric pathogen in commercial strain chickens. The rationale for this area of this project was generated by the many unknowns that still remain with regard to the pathogenesis of this parasite, despite advancements made in coccidial immunization in recent years. Infection of the small intestine and ceca by several species of the protozoan parasite Eimeria, the infectious agent that causes coccidiosis, in commercial poultry flocks costs the commercial industry in the U.S. somewhere between 300 and 750 million dollars annually. Of paramount importance to commercial growers at present is the escalating degree of chemical resistance that continues to develop in coccidia to once effective anti-coccidial drugs. This drug resistance renders once very effective anti-coccidial drugs ineffective for controlling the economic losses related to infection. One attractive solution our laboratory is investigating deals with improving vaccination of poultry against the most important species of Eimeria through nutritional or dietary modifications.

    Impacts
    The societal impact of identifying practical, management based solutions for reducing food borne pathogens on processed poultry centers upon improvements in human health. By reducing the presence of food borne pathogens on processed poultry and poultry products, food borne infection by Salmonella and Campylobacter can presumably be reduced. Further, by improving the effectiveness of vaccination or immunization of commercial poultry against coccidia, through simplistic management based alterations to standard rearing practices, including dietary changes, the boost in immunity or resistance that develops in commercial poultry flocks will reduce the dependence on chemotherapeutic methods of control. The observed effects of such improved practices would be increased production parameters including weight gain and improved feed conversion during the normal production cycle. Such research has the ultimate goal of improving disease resistance in commercially reared poultry, which in turn allows poultry to be reared on a more cost feasible basis.

    Publications

    • Ameiss, K.A., J. El-Attrache, H. Danforth, A.P. McElroy, and D.J. Caldwell, 2005. Prophylactic effects of orally administered CpG-ODNs during clinical challenge with Eimeria acervulina and Eimeria tenella. Poultry Sci. 84: Supp. 1.
    • Orndorff, B.W., C.L. Novak, F.W. Pierson, D.J. Caldwell, and A.P. McElroy, 2005. Comparison of prophylactic or therapeutic dietary administration of capsaicin for reduction of Salmonella in broiler chickens. Avian Dis. 49:527-533.
    • Lee, J., N. Eckert, K. Ameiss, A. Barri, S. Stevens, H.D. Danforth, A.P. McElroy, D. Hyatt, and D.J. Caldwell, 2005. Effect of dietary protein level on performance during live oocyst vaccination and subsequent clinical coccidial challenge in broilers. Poultry Sci. 84: Supp. 1.
    • Lee, J.T., N. Eckert, K.A. Ameiss, S. Stevens, P. Anderson, A.P. McElroy, H.D. Danforth, and D.J. Caldwell, 2005. Effect of dietary protein level on broiler performance and lesion development during vaccination and following field strain Eimeria challenge. Poultry Sci. 84: Supp. 1.
    • Barri, A., K. Ameiss, J. El-Attrache, A. McElroy, and D.J. Caldwell, 2005. Effects of cytosine-phosphate-guanosine oligodeoxynucleotides (CpG-ODN) on Salmonella vaccination or BSA immunization of neonatal chickens. Poultry Sci. 84: Supp. 1.
    • Byrd, J.A., J.L. McReynolds, D.J. Caldwell, and D.J. Nisbet, 2005. The effect of an experimental chlorate product (ECP) during simulated chill conditions on the recovery of foodborne pathogens. Poultry Sci. 84: Supp. 1.
    • Stevens, S., A. Byrd, D.J. Nisbet, A. McElroy, S. Anderson, and D.J. Caldwell, 2005. Microbial intervention strategies for Salmonella and Campylobacter reduction in commercial turkey processing. Poultry Sci. 84: Supp. 1.
    • Stevens, S., J.A. Byrd, A.P. McElroy, S. Anderson, D.J. Nisbet, D.J. Caldwell, and M.E. Hume, 2005. Speciation of Campylobacter recovered at selected points along the processing line during commercial turkey processing. Poultry Sci. 84: Supp. 1.
    • Abi-Ghanem, D., K. Ameiss, D.J. Caldwell, and L.R. Berghman, 2005. Optimization of an invasion assay for Eimeria tenella sporozoites. Poultry Sci. 84: Supp. 1.
    • Anderson, P.N., M.E. Hume, J.A. Byrd, and D.J. Caldwell, 2005. The use of polymerase chain reaction to detect different Salmonella serotypes. Poultry Sci. 84: Supp. 1.
    • Eckert, N., J. Lee, S. Stevens, S. Anderson, P. Anderson, A. Barri, D. Hyatt, and D.J. Caldwell, 2005. Effects of continuous or intermittent drinking water application of a Lactobacillus-based probiotic on broiler performance. Poultry Sci. 84: Supp. 1.
    • Walzak, C.L., L.A. Carvalho, C.L. Novak, H.D. Danforth, M.A. Quiroz. D.J. Caldwell, and A.P. McElroy, 2005. Evaluation of Advent for induction of intestinal immuno-responsiveness to mixed Eimeria challenge. Poultry Sci. 84: Supp. 1.


    Progress 01/01/04 to 12/31/04

    Outputs
    The overall objective of my recently revised TAES Five Year Project is to investigate methods for controlling Salmonella, Campylobacter, and coccidia in commercially reared poultry. This five year project received approval on May 26, 2004, and during the time since this approval date, significant progress has been made to contribute to the long-term sustainability of the project. Within the commercial turkey processing environment, we will compare Salmonella and Campylobacter recovery from processed turkey carcasses prior to, and following several different pre-chill intervention strategies (high pressure wash cabinets, sprays, and pH modification of the scald environment) in several distinct turkey processing facilities. This research is aimed at helping the industry provide a safer product through science-based, effective reduction strategies for these pathogens from farm to table. To investigate potential new methods of immunizing commercial poultry against avian coccidiosis, we will explore several previously uninvestigated parameters related to the development of immunity to coccidia in commercial strain chickens. The rationale for this area of this project revision is despite the advancements made in coccidial immunization in recent years, many unknowns still remain with regard to the pathogenesis of the parasite. Our laboratory recently finished the second phase of a multi-state, multi-operation survey of commercial turkey processing facilities in an attempt to identify best management practices for reducing the presence of bacterial food borne pathogens on processed turkey carcasses. We were successful in characterizing and identifying several management-based microbial intervention strategies used post-evisceration and during immersion chilling of post-eviscerated carcasses in these commercial operations. Working in conjunction with the U.S. Poultry and Egg Association, the National Turkey Federation, and several commercial integrators and processors, we have begun the dissemination of these findings on a widespread basis in an effort to implement these successful microbial reduction strategies on an industry-wide basis. Infection of the small intestine and ceca by several species of the protozoan parasite Eimeria in commercial poultry flocks costs the commercial industry in the U.S. somewhere between 300 and 750 million dollars annually. Of paramount importance to commercial growers at present is the escalating degree of chemical resistance to once effective anti-coccidial drugs. This drug resistance renders once very effective anti-coccidial drugs ineffective for controlling the economic losses related to infection. One attractive solution our laboratory is investigating deals with improvement of vaccinating poultry against the most important species of Eimeria

    Impacts
    The societal impact of identifying practical, management based solutions for reducing food borne pathogens on processed poultry focuses on improvements in human health. By reducing the presence of food borne pathogens on processed poultry and poultry products, food borne infection by Salmonella and Campylobacter can presumably be reduced. Further, by improving the effectiveness of vaccination or immunization of commercial poultry against coccidia, the boost in immunity or resistance that develops in commercial poultry flocks will reduce the dependence on chemotherapeutic methods of control, and as such increase production parameters including weight gain and improved feed conversion during the normal production cycle. Such research has the ultimate goal of improving disease resistance in commercially reared poultry, which in turns allows poultry to be reared on a more cost feasible basis.

    Publications

    • Caldwell, D.J., H.D. Danforth, B.C. Morris, K.A. Ameiss, and A.P. McElroy, 2004. Participation of the intestinal epithelium and mast cells in local mucosal immune responses in commercial poultry. Poult. Sci. 83:591-599.
    • Morris, B.C., H.D. Danforth, D.J. Caldwell, F.W. Pierson, and A.P. McElroy, 2004. Intestinal mucosal morphologic response and pathogenesis of two Eimeria acervulina isolates in broiler chickens. Poultry Sci. 83:In press.
    • McElroy, A.P., J.A. Byrd, and D.J. Caldwell. Managing Immersion Chilling Systems. Poultry International, Watt Poultry, May 2004.
    • Caldwell, D.J., J.A. Byrd, and A.P. McElroy, 2004.Post-Evisceration Microbial Interventions. Watt Poultry USA, December 2004, pages 28-38.
    • Woolsey, B.M., C.L. Wazlak, B.C. Morris, H.D. Danforth, D.J. Caldwell, D.A. Emmerson, and A.P. McElroy, 2004. Live performance and lesion scores following a mixed Eimeria challenge in three commercial breeds of broilers. Poultry Sci. 83: Suppl. 1.
    • Wazlak, C.L., B.M. Woolsey, B.C. Morris, H.D. Danforth, D.J. Caldwell, D.A. Emmerson, and A.P. McElroy, 2004. Intestinal mucosal mast cell and morphological response to a mixed Eimeria challenge in commercial broilers. Poultry Sci. 83: Suppl. 1.
    • Lee, J., S.E. Tichy, C.A. Bailey, A.L. Cartwright, R.E. Droleskey, and D.J. Caldwell, 2004. Reduction of Salmonella typhimurium (ST) yeast agglutination and intestinal colonization in broilers by galactose or mannose liberated from guar gum. Poultry Sci. 83: Supp. 1.
    • Ameiss, K.A., J. El-Attrache, A. Barri, A.P. McElroy, and D.J. Caldwell, 2004. Enhancement of homologous vaccination to Eimeria acervulina via CpG-ODNs. Poultry Sci. 83: Supp. 1.
    • Ameiss, K.A., M.C. Jenkins, H.D. Danforth, A. Barri, and D.J. Caldwell, 2004. Development of and antigen specific indirect ELISA for Eimeria using recombinant antigen EASZ240 from Eimeria acervulina. Poultry Sci. 83: Supp. 1.


    Progress 01/01/03 to 12/31/03

    Outputs
    The overall objective of my TAES Five Year Project is to find new ways of improving or augmenting immunity or disease resistance to enteric pathogens in commercial poultry, and to identify cost-effective management practices, commonly utilized in commercial poultry production, which might reduce the incidence of poultry contaminated with human pathogens of public health significance. This project received final approval on July 9, 1998. In the past 5 and years since final approval of the present project, significant progress has been made to contribute to the long-term sustainability of the project. A new Five Year Project is presently being compiled as a revision to this original project. Our laboratory recently completed a multi-state, multi-operation survey of commercial turkey processing facilities in an attempt to identify best management practices for reducing the presence of bacterial food borne pathogens on processed turkey carcasses. We were successful in characterizing and identifying several management-based microbial intervention strategies during immersion chilling of post-eviscerated carcasses in these commercial operations. The identified management based practices were very successful in reducing the presence of Salmonella and Campylobacter, the two most prevalent sources of bacterial food borne illness in humans in the United States at present. Working in conjunction with the National Turkey Federation, these findings have been disseminated on a widespread basis among commercial broiler and turkey processors in the United States in an effort to implement these successful microbial reduction strategies on an industry-wide basis. Infection of the small intestine and ceca by several species of the protozoan parasite Eimeria in commercial chicken and turkey flocks costs the commercial poultry industry in the United States somewhere between 300 and 750 million dollars annually. These costs are associated with control measures, which have historically included chemotherapeutic control by constant inclusion of anti-coccidial drugs in poultry rations, and production losses associated with ineffective control measures. Of paramount importance to commercial growers at present is the escalating degree of chemical resistance to once effective anti-coccidial drugs. This drug resistance renders once very effective anti-coccidial drugs ineffective for controlling the economic losses related to infection. Such drug resistance is forcing investigators and producers to identify new methods of effective control. One attractive solution involves immunizing or vaccinating poultry against the most important species of Eimeria which infect commercial poultry. One area our laboratory is focusing upon at present is identifying effective adjuvant to improve the effectiveness of vaccination in commercial strain chickens and turkeys to coccidia.

    Impacts
    The societal impact of identifying practical, management based solutions for reducing food borne pathogens on processed poultry focuses on improvements in human health. By reducing the presence of food borne pathogens on processed poultry and poultry products, food borne infection by Salmonella and Campylobacter can presumably be reduced. Further, by improving the effectiveness of vaccination or immunization of commercial poultry against coccidia, the boost in immunity or resistance that develops in commercial poultry flocks will reduce the dependence on chemotherapeutic methods of control, and as such increase production parameters including weight gain and improved feed conversion during the normal production cycle.

    Publications

    • Caldwell, D.J., H.D. Danforth, B.C. Morris, K.A. Ameiss, and A.P. McElroy. 2003. Participation of the Intestinal Epithelium and Mast Cells in Local Mucosal Immune Responses in Commercial Poultry. Poult. Sci. 82:4.
    • Morris, B.C., H.D. Danforth, D.J. Caldwell, and A.P. McElroy. 2003. Intestinal Mucosal Mast Cell and Morphological Response to Eimeria acervulina Isolates in Broiler Chickens. Poult. Sci. 82:27.
    • Cavitt, J.L., A.P. McElroy, J.A. Byrd, D.J. Nisbet, and D.J. Caldwell. 2003. Effect of Immersion Chilling on Incidence of Salmonella on Post-Chill Carcasses During Commercial Turkey Processing. Poult. Sci. 82:75.
    • Byrd, J.A., J.L. Cavitt, A.P. McElroy, D.J. Nisbet, and D.J. Caldwell. 2003. Impact of the Chiller Environment on Campylobacter Carcasses During Turkey Processing. Poult. Sci. 82:77.
    • McElroy, A.P., J.L. Cavitt, J.A. Byrd, D.J. Nisbet, and D.J. Caldwell. 2003. Association of Immersion Chiller Management with Post-Chill Salmonella and Campylobacter Incidence During Commercial Turkey Processing. Poult. Sci. 82:76.
    • Caldwell, D.J., J.L. Cavitt, J.A. Byrd, D.J. Nisbet, and A.P. McElroy. 2003. Overall Contribution of Immersion Chiller Management on Remediation of Salmonella During Commercial Turkey Processing. Poult. Sci. 82:78.
    • McElroy, A.P., J.A. Byrd, and D.J. Caldwell. 2003. Managing Immersion Chilling Systems. Watt Poultry USA. December 2003, pages 30-45.


    Progress 01/01/02 to 12/31/02

    Outputs
    The overall objective of my TAES Five Year Project is to find new ways of improving or augmenting immunity or disease resistance to enteric pathogens in commercial poultry, and to identify cost-effective management practices, commonly utilized in commercial poultry production, which might reduce the incidence of poultry contaminated with human pathogens of public health significance. This project received final approval on July 9, 1998. In the past 4.5 and years since final approval of the present project, significant progress has been made to contribute to the long-term sustainability of the project. During the past year, our laboratory completed a large-scale microbiological survey of commercial turkey processing to identify critical control points vital to identifying best management practices for reducing the presence of food-borne pathogens on commercially processed poultry. This project was conducted through funding by the National Turkey Federation in close association with six major commercial turkey integrators and processors. Importantly, the study identified several management based microbial intervention practices that are presently being adopted on a broad-scale basis within the commercial turkey industry for reducing the presence of Salmonella and Campylobacter on commercially processed turkey carcasses. The findings of this investigation are presently being summarized for peer-reviewed publication and are presently being distributed to National Turkey Federation members via their website. As such, the project has to date, and will likely in the future, continue to have immediate and practical applicability in reducing the presence of food-borne pathogens on commercial poultry or poultry products, a major objective of my TAES Five Year Project.

    Impacts
    Further, our laboratory has also achieved similar success in identifying new ways of improving enteric immunity in commercial poultry. Recently, we've identified a very effective, and commercially applicable method of administering proteins for immunizing poultry via the drinking water. Such routes of administration have been shown to induce robust antibody responses systemically and locally within the mucosal immune system of chickens. These findings are presently being summarized for peer-review publication.

    Publications

    • Byrd, J.A., B.M. Hargis, D.E. Corrier, R.L. Brewer, D.J. Caldwell, R.H. Bailey, J.L. McReynolds, K.L. Herron, and L.H. Stanker, 2002. Fluorescent marker for the detection of crop and upper gastrointestinal leakage in poultry processing plants. Poultry Sci. 81:70-74.
    • Caldwell, D.J., K.D. Knape, J.A. Byrd, and K. Bischoff, 2002. Degree and specificity of antibiotic resistance in Salmonella isolates recovered from commercial turkey processing facilities. National Turkey Federation Annual Meeting, January 10-14, 2002. New Orleans, LA.
    • Caldwell, D.J., J.L. Cavitt, J.A. Byrd, and A.P. McElroy, 2002. Incidence of Salmonella or Campylobacter on processed turkey carcasses following immersion chilling: impact of recommended changes in chiller intervention and management strategies. National Turkey Federation Quarterly Technical and Regulatory Meeting, April 10, 2002. Omaha, NE.
    • McElroy, A.P., and D.J. Caldwell, 2002. Pre-harvest strategies for controlling Salmonella and Campylobacter during live production in commercial turkey operations. National Turkey Federation Quarterly Technical and Regulatory Meeting, April 10, 2002. Omaha, NE.
    • Caldwell, D.J., and A.P. McElroy, 2002. Pre-slaughter control of food borne pathogens with non-antibiotic feed additives. 2nd Annual ANECA Symposium on Poultry Processing, February 6-8, 2002, Mexico City, Mexico.
    • Caldwell, D.J., J.A. Byrd, and A.P. McElroy, 2002. Effect of immersion chilling on Salmonella and Campylobacter contamination of processed carcasses during turkey processing. 2nd Annual ANECA Symposium on Poultry Processing, February 6-8, 2002, Mexico City, Mexico.
    • Cavitt, J.L., J.A. Byrd, K.D. Knape, J.L. McReynolds, R.W. Moore, A.P. McElroy, and D.J. Caldwell, 2002. Comparison of carcass rinse volume and selective culture methods for Salmonella recovery from post-chill turkey carcass. Poultry Sci. 81, Suppl. 1, 50.
    • J.L. McReynolds, L.R. Berghman, N. Puebla-Osorio, A.P. McElroy, and D.J. Caldwell, 2002. Association of anaphylaxis-mediated ion secretion in chicken intestine with antibody titer following oral or intraperitoneal administration of BSA. Poultry Sci. 81, Suppl. 1, 7.
    • B.M. Woolsey, B.C. Morris, D.J. Caldwell, and A.P. McElroy, 2002. Comparison of prophylactic and therapeutic dietary administration of capsaicin for resistance to Salmonella or coccidia in broiler chickens. Poultry Sci. 81, Suppl. 1, 59.


    Progress 01/01/01 to 12/31/01

    Outputs
    Our efforts to reduce food-borne pathogens on processed commercial poultry have been successful. We are presently conducting research with the National Turkey Federation and several commercial turkey producers to validate immersion chiller management practices which remediate Salmonella and Campylobacter from processed turkey carcasses. These results will be published later this year. Our interest in investigating immunity to coccidia in the small intestine and cloaca of chickens has resulted in several presentations at national scientific meetings and peer reviewed manuscripts in the last year. We have found that the intestinal mucosa is capable of responding directly to antigen challenge when animals have been immunized to coccidial or common protein antigens.

    Impacts
    These findings may be of substantial commercial importance when considering meeting pathogen reduction compliance standards in processed poultry and in vaccine design for enteric pathogens of commercial interest in poultry.

    Publications

    • Hargis, B.M., D.J. Caldwell, and M.H. Kogut, 1999. Immunoprophylaxis of poultry against Salmonella enteritidis in: Salmonella enterica serovar enteritidis in humans and animals--epidemiology, pathogenesis, and control. A.M. Saeed, ed. Iowa State University Press, Ames, IA.
    • McReynolds, J.L., D.Y. Caldwell, E.T. Barnhart, J.R. DeLoach, A.P. McElroy, R.W. Moore, B.M. Hargis, and D.J. Caldwell, 2000. The effect of in ovo or day-of-hatch subcutaneous antibiotic administration on competitive exclusion culture (PREEMPTTM) establishment in neonatal chickens. Poultry Sci. 79:1524-1530.
    • McReynolds, J.L., D.Y. Caldwell, E.T. Barnhart, J.R. DeLoach, A.P. McElroy, B.M. Hargis, and D.J. Caldwell, 2000. Temporal pattern of antimicrobial residue detection in chicken yolk samples following administration to egg producing chickens: effect of residue detection on competitive exclusion culture establishment in the gut of neonatal chickens. J. Ag. Food Chem. 48: 6435-6438.
    • Caldwell, D.J., Y.A. Harari, B.M. Hargis, and G.A. Castro, 2001. Gut immunity in chickens: response of mucosal epithelium to antigen exposure. Dev. Comp. Immunol. 25:169-176.
    • Byrd, J.A., B.M. Hargis, D.J. Caldwell, R.H. Bailey, K.L. Heron, J.L. McReynolds, R.L. Brewer, R.C. Anderson, K.M. Bischoff, T.R. Callaway, and L.F. Kubena, 2001. Effect of lactic acid administration in the drinking water during preslaughter feed withdrawal on Salmonella and Campylobacter contamination of broilers. Poultry Sci. 80:278-283.
    • Caldwell, D.Y., R.W. Moore, D.J. Caldwell, and B.M. Hargis, 2001. Effect of photointensity, sound intensity, and ambient temperature on preening behavior and ingestion of spray-applied biologics. J. Appl. Poult. Res. 10:99-106.
    • Caldwell, D.Y., D.J. Caldwell, and B.M. Hargis, 2001. Effect of selected photo intensity regimes on chick preening behavior and competitive exclusion culture efficacy. J. Appl. Poult. Res. 10:107-111.


    Progress 01/01/00 to 12/31/00

    Outputs
    Our efforts to identify mechanisms of reducing food-borne pathogens on processed commercial poultry were successful in the past year. We continued our investigation into the applications and usage of commercially available competitive exclusion cultures to reduce intestinal colonization of poultry by Salmonella. Specifically, we investigated and reported on the interaction between the dual administration of antibiotics and competitive exclusion cultures. Further, we completed a survey of the incidence of contamination of processed turkey carcasses by both Salmonella and Campylobacter. These results will be published in the coming year. Further, our interest in investigating immunity to coccidia in the small intestine and ceca of chickens has resulted in several presentations at national scientific meetings and peer reviewed manuscripts in the last year. We have found that the intestinal mucosa is capable of responding directly to antigen challenge when animals have been immunized to coccidial or common protein antigens.

    Impacts
    These findings may be of substantial commercial importance when considering meeting pathogen reduction compliance standards in processed poultry and in vaccine design for enteric pathogens, including coccidia, that are of particular importance in commercially reared poultry.

    Publications

    • Caldwell, D.J., Y. Harari, B.M. Hargis, and G.A. Castro, 2000. Intestinal anaphylaxis in chickens: epithelial ion secretion as a determinant and potential component of functional immunity. Dev. Comp. Immunol. 25:169-176.
    • Farnell, M.B., S. You, M.E. El Halawani, B.M. Hargis, and D.J. Caldwell, 2000. Effect of recombinant turkey interferon-g on Salmonella enteritidis organ invasion in Leghorn chicks. Avian Dis. In Press.
    • Farnell, M.B., R.W. Moore, B.M. Hargis, and D.J. Caldwell, 2000. Effect of prolonged heat stress in SCWL hens on resistance to Salmonella enteritidis organ invasion in progeny. Avian Dis. In press.
    • Reinapp II, R.A., A.P. McElroy, H.D. Danforth, and D.J. Caldwell, 2000. Chicken intestinal immunity: a novel in vitro response of the intestinal mucosal epithelium to Eimeria maxima antigen. Avian Dis. submitted.
    • Young, S.D., D.J. Caldwell, J.A. Byrd, D.Y. Caldwell, D.E. Corrier, L.H. Stanker, and B.M. Hargis, 2000. Evaluation of alternative sampling methods for Salmonella critical control point determination at turkey processing. J. Food Protection. Submitted.
    • Young, S.D., J.A. Byrd, D.J. Caldwell, D.Y. Caldwell, R.L. Brewer, L.H. Stanker, and B.M. Hargis, 2000. Research note: Evaluation of Salmonella recovery incidence on commercially processed broiler carcasses retained or passed by regulatory inspectors for the presence of visible fecal or ingesta contamination. J. Food Protection. Submitted.
    • Granburg, S.E., D.Y. Caldwell, L.R. Berghman, I. Tizard, D.J. Caldwell, and B.M. Hargis, 2000. Observation and interpretation of occasional follicles with uniform high incidence of apoptotic cells in the neonatal chick bursa of Fabricius. Poultry Sci. Submitted.


    Progress 01/01/99 to 12/31/99

    Outputs
    Our efforts to reduce food-borne pathogens on processed commercial poultry have been successful. We have developed and commercially tested, with collaborators at a USDA/ARS laboratory, a drinking water treatment procedure, where lactic acid is administered in the drinking water during pre-harvest feed withdrawal, that is efficacious in reducing crop and processed carcass contamination by Salmonella. Further, we have continued our investigation into the applications and usage of commercially available competitive exclusion cultures and modified-live Salmonella vaccines for their ability to reduce intestinal colonization of poultry by Salmonella and have observed efficacy and compatibility with both products. Our interest in investigating immunity to coccidia in the small intestine and cloaca of chickens has resulted in several presentations at national scientific meetings and peer reviewed manuscripts in the last year. We have found that the intestinal mucosa is capable of responding directly to antigen challenge when animals have been immunized to coccidial or common protein antigens.

    Impacts
    These findings may be of substantial commercial importance when considering meeting pathogen reduction compliance standards in processed poultry and in vaccine design for enteric pathogens of commercial interest in poultry.

    Publications

    • Caldwell, D.J., Y. Harari, B.M. Hargis, and G.A. Castro, 1999. Intestinal anaphlaxis in chickens: epithelial ion secretion as a determinant and potential component of functional immunity. Dev. Comp. Immunol. Submitted.
    • McReynolds, J.L., D.Y. Caldwell, E.T. Barnhart, J.R. DeLoach, A.P. McElroy, R.W. Moore, B.M. Hargis, and D.J. Caldwell, 1999. The effect of in ovo or day-of-hatch subcutaneous antibiotic administration on competitive exclusion culture (PREEMPT) establishment in neonatal chickens. Poultry Sci. In press.
    • McReynolds, J.L., D.Y. Caldwell, E.T. Barnhart, J.R. DeLoach, A.P. McElroy, B.M. Hargis, and D.J. Caldwell, 1999. Antimicrobial residue detection in chicken yolk samples following administration to egg producing chickens and effects of residue detection on competitive exclusion culture (PREEMPT) establishment. J. Agric. Food Chem. In press.
    • Hargis, B.M., J.A. Byrd, and D.J. Caldwell, 1999. Microbial pathogens of poultry: live bird considerations. In: Poultry Meet Processing, CRC Press, In press.
    • Reinapp II, R.A., A.P. McElroy, H.D. Danforth, and D.J. Caldwell, 1999. Chicken intestinal immunity: a novel in vitro response of the intestinal mucosal epithelium to Eimeria maxima antigen. Avian Dis. submitted.


    Progress 01/01/98 to 12/31/98

    Outputs
    We have continued to make progress identifying potential sites of contamination of poultry by human food-borne pathogens. Work is currently underway to design intervention strategies to achieve overall reductions in contamination of poultry and poultry products by several human food-borne pathogens, including Salmonella and Campylobacter. We continue to explore the role that the crop plays in contributing to contamination of processed carcasses. We also have made considerable progress in initiating several investigations that explore the involvement of the gut-associated immune system in chickens and turkeys in resistance and enhanced immunity to several enteric pathogens. These preliminary investigations have identified a discrete role of the mucosal epithelium in participating in immune-mediated rejection of selected enteric pathogens of commercial importance to poultry producers. The results of these investigations are scheduled for publication in the coming year.

    Impacts
    (N/A)

    Publications

    • Ramirez, G.A., L.L. Sarlin, D.J Caldwell, C.R. Yezak, Jr., M.E. Hume, D.E. Corrier, J.R. DeLoach, and B.M. Hargis, 1998. Effect of feed withdrawal on the incidence of Salmonella in the crops and ceca of market-age broiler chickens. Poultry Sci. 76:654-656.
    • Caldwell, D.J., B.M. Hargis, D.E. Corrier, and J.R. DeLoach, 1998. Frequency of isolation of Salmonella from protective foot covers worn in broiler houses as compared to drag-swab sampling. Avian Dis. 42:381-384.
    • Sarlin, L.L., E.T Barnhart, D.J. Caldwell, R.W. Moore, J.A. Byrd, D.Y. Caldwell, D.E. Corrier, J.R. DeLoach, and B.M. Hargis, 1998. Evaluation of alternative sampling methods for Salmonella critical control point determination at broiler processing. Poultry Sci. 77:1253-1257.
    • Caldwell, D.J., and B.M. Hargis, 1998. Effects of bursal antisteroidogenic peptide (BASP) on mitogen-induced DNA synthesis in peripheral-blood lymphocytes (PBL) isolated from chickens, rats, and humans. Dev. Comp. Immunol. 22:613-620
    • Caldwell, D.J., C.E. Dean, A.P. McElroy, J.G. Manning, D.Y. Caldwell, J.A. Byrd, and B.M. Hargis, 1998. Bursal anti-steroidogenic peptide (BASP): modulation of mitogen-stimulated bursal-lymphocyte DNA synthesis. Comp. Biochem. Physiol. Accepted.
    • Caldwell, D.J., J.G. Manning, and B.M. Hargis, 1998. Bursal anti-steroidogenic peptide (BASP) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1): comparison of bioefficacy for suppression of neonatal chick B-lymphocyte DNA synthesis. Vet. Immunol. Immunopathol. Submitted.
    • Barnhart, E.T., L.L. Sarlin, D.J. Caldwell, J.A. Byrd, D.E. Corrier, and B.M. Hargis, 1998. Evaluation of potential disinfectants for pre slaughter broiler crop decontamination. Poultry Sci. In press.
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