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<OL> <LI> Define the physiological, neuroendocrinological and psychological alterations that occur in the hen during feed withdrawal to induce molt vs. alternative molt procedures. <LI> Evaluate whether experimental observation of molt effects on Salmonella enteritidis infection also occur under commercial conditions. <LI> Evaluate whether alternative molt procedures can reduce or eliminate the Salmonella enteritidis problem normally observed during an experimental molt.
Examine Salmonella enteritidis situation in commercial operations at various times pre, during, and post molt. Develop molting procedures alternative to feed withdrawal such as low energy feeds or hormone therapy which do not cause exacerbated Salmonella enteritidis infection. Examine the effects of molting on hormone levels in brain, serum, and gut and the impact of molting on intestinal integrity. Examine effet of molting on reproductive tract function and morphology.