1893.] 



in the Production of Muscular Work. 



483 



'able showing the Power 500 grams (17^ ounces) of Sugar- lias of 

 retarding Fatigue, as well as the total Increase in Muscular Power 

 it produces. 200 grams (7 ounces) being taken at 8.30 A.M., and 

 100 grams (3^ ounces) at 11 A.M. and at 2 and 5 P.M. 



It is here seen that the 500 grams (17J- ounces) of sugar retarded 

 the onset of fatigue by more than 150 seconds in both cases. The 

 left middle finger being capable of working 528 seconds, as against 

 374 seconds ; while the right worked 484 seconds, as against 300 

 seconds. 



The total work performed by the left middle finger was 34*311 kilos, 

 as against 19'425 kilos., giving a total gain of 76 per cent. ; the 

 right, 21*700 kilos, as against 13'476 kilos., yielding a total gain of 

 61 per cent, from the sugar. 



When the result obtained from each successive working of the ergo- 

 graph is compared, the total muscle-working power is apparently far 

 more increased than that obtained from merely thirty contractions. 

 This, in all probability, is due to the carbohydrates formed during 

 fasting, from the proteids of the tissues, being sufficient for the per- 

 formance of a small amount of work, though the supply is insufficient 

 for prolonged work. When, however, sugar is taken, it supplies the 



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