The effects of endophyte-infected tall fescue consumption on diet utilization and thermal regulation in cattle.

Two experiments were conducted to determine the effects of endophyte fungus (Acremonium coenophialum) ingestion in tall fescue diets and environmental temperature on heat dissipation and diet utilization by cattle. In Exp. 1, 12 Angus heifers (average weight 244 kg) were allotted by weight to either an endophyte-free (E-) or endophyte-infected (E+; 381 ppb of ergovaline) diet. Environmental temperature varied between 22 and 32 degrees C. Voluntary DM and water intakes were similar (P > .10) among treatments. Rectal temperatures and concentrations of prolactin in plasma were lower (P < .05) after ingestion of the E+ diet. Plasma triiodothyronine, thyroxine, and cortisol concentrations were not affected by diet. In Exp. 2, 24 Holstein steers (average weight 114 kg) were allotted by weight to either E- or E+ (285 ppb of ergovaline) and one of two environmental temperatures (22 or 32 degrees C). At 32 degrees C, feed intake was reduced by 22%, and water consumption was increased by 62% compared with steers housed at 22 degrees C. Consumption of E+ reduced feed intake by 10% but did not influence water consumption. Plasma concentration of prolactin was decreased (P < .05) within 48 h after consumption of E+. Rectal temperatures increased in response to both environmental temperature (P < .05) and E+ consumption (P = .06). Digestibilities of DM and OM for E+ were 9% lower (P < .05) than for E-.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Plant cell growth under different levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide.

An experimental system, in which gases of known composition were passed through flasks, was used to systematically study the effects of oxygen and carbon dioxide on plant cell growth. As expected, oxygen limiting conditions resulted in suppressed growth of Catharanthus roseus cultures. Oxygen limitations did not alter the amount of cell mass produced per gram of sugar consumed which suggests that the production of fermentative metabolites was limited. Varying levels of carbon dioxide were observed to have no effect on the growth rates of either C. roseus or Daucus carota cultures. The amount of C. roseus cell mass generated per gram of sugar consumed appeared to be slightly increased at higher carbon dioxide levels.

Coronal approach for rejuvenation of the eyes and forehead.

Aesthetic surgeons are using the coronal forehead lift to achieve more consistent and enduring results due to a better understanding of the anatomy, dynamics, and aging process of the forehead. The varied indications for the procedure, such as soft-tissue ptosis and facial wrinkles, are discussed. The surgical technique is described, including the many controversial methods of managing the frontalis muscle. Eyeglasses and precise photography are employed to more objectively evaluate the amount of eyebrow elevation. Very gratifying results have been achieved with only minimal complications. The coronal forehead lift enhances the effects of the standard blepharoplasty and the orbicularis oculi muscle flap suspension techniques, and can be done in conjunction with a facial-cervical rhytidectomy. Presently, this is the procedure of choice in most women for rejuvenating the upper third of the face.

Management of perforations of the hypopharynx and cervical esophagus.

Complications related to perforations of the upper aerodigestive system carry a 15% mortality. Nine cases of intraluminal injuries to the hypopharynx and cervical esophagus are reviewed. Seven were related to iatrogenic causes and two associated with foreign bodies. This study details the cause and location of the injuries, associated signs and symptoms, and the resultant morbidity. A protocol for the management of suspected perforations is outlined.