Letters to the editor

Extract

Sir,—At Wallaceville Animal Research Centre, a preliminary trial was conducted to determine the technical feasibility of using a computer to process data and records in diagnostic laboratories. The purpose of utilizing electronic data-processing in a diagnostic laboratory is to provide a means of retrieving information in the future from the vast quantity of material dealt with in these laboratories. One of the uses of such information is in the analysis of laboratory procedures used in dealing with this material. It will also provide a basis for standardization of nomenclature and procedures within the profession, an aim which will be accomplished by using an international programme of data recording and nomenclature particularly adapted for diagnostic laboratories in New Zealand.     

Letters to the editor

Extract

Sir, — Two 18-month-old South Hampshire rams from the same flock were presented to us with a history of abnormal behaviour in as much as “they were difficult to shift with dogs and acted like pet lambs”. Clinical examination showed both of them to be blind, and they also exhibited mild ataxia and generalized tremors when excited. Although in good condition they were poorer than others in the group. Necropsy revealed that the brains of both were less than two-thirds normal size. Although all parts of the brain appeared reduced in size, the cerebrum was most atrophic and the cerebellum almost normal. Histopathological examination of paraffin-embedded sections showed that neurones and macrophages throughout the central nervous system and retina contained easinophilic granules. These granules were PAS positive, stained with Sudan black, were slightly acid-fast, and showed auto-fluorescence in ulttraviolet light. As such they were tentatively diagnosed as containing ceroid and/or lipofuscin.     

Letters to the editor

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Sir,—I desire to submit my opinions on the adoption of the courtesy title of “Doctor” by the veterinary profession in New Zealand. In doing so, I am taking a long-term view concerned with the ultimate benefit for veterinary science in New Zealand. Veterinary surgeons form today, more than ever they did in the past, an internationally interchangeable body of scientists; therefore, the veterinary profession in New Zealand should follow the great majority of world countries in the usage of the courtesy title of Doctor.     

Letters to the editor

Sir;- Outbreaks of ovine abortions caused by Campylobacter fetus fetus (previously C. fetus intestinalis) occur sporadically in mimy areas of New Zealand. The devastating effects on some flocks have stimulated recent studies of the disease,^(1)(3)(7) and have also led to the commercial production of a single strain vaccine (Campylovexin; Wellcome N.Z. Ltd, Auckland). However, it has been shown that single strain C. Fetus vaccines do not protect against serologically distinct strains.⁽²⁾ Since at least two different serotypes of C. fetus fetus are present in New ZealandY) it is not surprising that the commercially available vaccine is only partially effective in some outbreaks.⁽⁷⁾     

Letters to the editor

Extract

In order to utilize spring growth efficiently under a system of grassland farming, a New Zealand dairy farmer endeavours to calve as many cows as possible within a four to six weeks' period. To maintain this calving pattern, herd members must conceive by 70 to 80 days after calving. Consequently normal postparturient uterine involution, together with a minimum of delay in the onset of ovarian activity and oestral cyclicity, is of vital importance. A study of these phenomena may be very rewarding in helping to achieve optimal reproductive efficiency.     

Letters to the editor

Extract

Sir,—A 7-month-old lamb was presented for slaughter, one of a line of 460. The animal was in good condition and, except for a moderately enlarged abdomen, no abnormalities could be detected on ante-mortem examination.