Abstract: There is provided an improved ceramic foam filter for use in filtering molten metals, metal prepared from a ceramic slurry containing silicon carbide, a colloidal silica binder and at least 10 percent of fumed silica. The filter has enhanced strength properties.

Abstract: The three-dimensional structure of human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) has been determined by X-ray crystallography and the coordinates of the individual atoms are presented. Analogues of hCG and other glycoprotein hormones sharing a similar .alpha.-subunit structure are produced by inputting chemical changes to the structure into a computer loaded with three-dimensional molecular simulation software and representing visually on a computer display. The three-dimensional structures of the original glycoprotein and the chemically modified analogues are compared, and those analogues wherein the three-dimensional configuration and spatial arrangement of regions involved in receptor binding and signal transduction remain substantially preserved are selected for synthesis by molecular biology techniques and screening for biological activity. Glycoprotein analogues with additional glycosylation sites, and deletion of non-essential hairpins are disclosed.

Abstract: A method for treating canola seeds for use in ruminant feed is disclosed. The method consists of treating substantially intact canola seeds at a temperature of 30.degree.-90.degree. C. with an aqueous alkaline solution, the solution having a pH of 10-14 and comprising 1-20% by weight, based on the dry weight of the seeds, of alkaline agent. The integrity of the seed coat of the canola seeds remains substantially intact during treatment. When treated seeds are fed to ruminants, the triglycerides, fatty acids and protein present in the treated seeds bypass the rumen, and are digested in the abomasum and the small intestine. Ruminant feeds comprising the treated seeds and methods for feeding these feeds to ruminants are also disclosed.