Abstract: Apparatus for use in and for assisting the visual assessment by a human operator of test objects, in each of which test objects a multiplicity of test locations each has one or more visible characteristics capable of exhibiting any one of a number of conditions to be assessed (e.g. a prepared microtiter plate or tray having an array of test locations or wells in which a series of microbial cultures or biological or chemical tests has been carried out leading to results to be optically or visually assessed, e.g.

Abstract: The risk that the health of pregnant animals and their young will be impaired by gastro-intestinal infection is reduced by oral administration of endotoxins of the relevant pathogenic organisms to the pregnant animals. Combination of oral and parenteral administration is particularly beneficial, whether the animal is pregnant or not, in boosting immunological capacity. This technique is especially beneficial for mammals whose young acquire their passive immunity via the colostrum and hence through the gastro-intestinal wall, such as pigs, cows and sheep.