2007 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416) The purpose of this agreement is to strengthen the cooperation between the Parties (USDA and MVSU) in a collaborative effort to conduct research in the area of bioinformatics and related fields of research. 1b.Approach (from AD-416) Bioinformatics is a rapidly growing field using computerized analytical and database management technologies for processing voluminous genetic, chemical, and ecological data. To this end, the Parties agree jointly to explore and coordinate research activities of mutual interest which will be implemented by mututal understanding and in conformity with the regulations and policies of both Parties. 3.Progress Report This report serves to document research conducted under Specific Cooperative Agreement between ARS and Mississippi Valley State University. Additional details of research can be found in the report for the in-house project 6402-21310-001-00D, “Genomics and Bioinformatics Research in Catfish, Cotton, and Soybeans.” The ADODR has utilized personal meetings and email communication to monitor performance. Approach: The purpose of this initiative is to develop novel real-time imaging technologies to confront critical issues facing production animal agriculture. As part of this initiative, novel technologies that utilize the photon (light) and thermal signatures (heat) are being adapted to molecular-based strategies which will permit live animal imaging of specific physiological processes. 2007 Research Progress: We have developed a minimally invasive approach for monitoring Salmonella bacteria in a swine model. These procedures will be extended into an applied model system of bacterial transmission during transport and holding in the upcoming year. Studies have also employed a modified E. coli organism to investigate pathogen progression in the horse and ewe in-vivo from the uterine environment to the fetus. In addition, we are continuing to develop an in-vitro model for monitoring bacterial turn-over in an artificial rumen system using biophotonic applications, which may shed new light on the function of the rumen and the efficiency of bacterial populations in converting feedstuffs and forages. Studies are also continuing to evaluate the use of thermography (skin/coat surface heat detection) to monitor heat load and evaporative cooling in various breeds of dairy and beef cattle. We have identified skin surface vs core temperature-related differences among breeds using thermal imaging that are more resolved than other techniques. We have also determined that thermal imaging of the muzzle (nose) may be a highly sensitive region for body temperature determination and may have value as a rapid screening tool for identifying sick cattle in feedlots and dairy parlors. We have also been addressing the relationship between thermal signatures of beef cattle of different breed types and temperament to develop a rapid screening tool for evaluating animal stress, temperament and/or health during the growing and finishing phases of development. Finally, studies are continuing to evaluate the usefulness of thermal imaging for the purpose of detecting estrus in swine and for the monitoring equine laminitis detection and general hoof health monitoring. In our swine studies, we have identified a distinct estrus-related thermal signature which may reduce the incidence of a missed estrus in production swine breeding operations.