Pittsburgh-based National Steel Corp. reported operating improvements...

Pittsburgh-based National Steel Corp. reported operating improvements contributed to a profit in the fourth quarter, compared to a loss in 1985. Sales for the quarter rose 16.7%. For the year, National Steel’s loss was less than in 1985, although sales improved slightly.In the past six months, the firm improved product quality and productivity and reduced costs and energy consumption, a spokesman said. “We anticipate productivity gains and cost-cutting efforts will continue throughout 1987,” he added.