SECRETARY’S REPORT 141 
and the exposure of both black and white and color films, as well as 
to the related problem of film processing at high temperatures. 
Many of the data have been utilized in the preparation of a manu- 
script on tropical photography, which when released will be of imme- 
diate help to photographers working in tropical and semitropical 
areas. This isa most valuable contribution and represents many years 
of careful, detailed study right in the Tropics, most of it on the island. 
The two basic sources of trouble are heat and humidity, especially the 
latter. In this work, Mr. Soper is assisted by Mr. Hermle. 
James Zetek continued his studies on fruitflies, as well as the ex- 
tensive termite tests in preparation for his forty-first progress report. 
This very large series of exposures, which in addition to termite tests, 
include rot, beetle, and other tests, is each year yielding more import- 
ant data. In addition to this series, examinations were also made of 
the extensive soil-poison and treated-wood tests initiated and installed 
by Kowal-Dews-Johnson. 
Smithsonian Institution. The following were visitors to the lab- 
oratory: Dr. Alexander Wetmore, Secretary, who had been in Herrera 
Province on ornithological reconnaissance, assisted by W. M. Perrygo, 
visited the island in February and in April largely on plans and dis- 
cussions with the resident manager. John E. Graf, Assistant Secre- 
tary, spent some time on the island, likewise in discussions of plans, 
as well as to get acquainted with the island and the Tropics in general. 
This was his first visit to the Tropics, and it left him with lasting 
impressions and with the urge to return soon. Thomas F. Clark, ad- 
ministrative accountant, also spent some time on the island to become 
acquainted with the general set-up and to discuss property and fiscal 
matters with the resident manager. These three visitors and coun- 
selors were most welcome. 
Dr. Matthew W. Stirling, Director of the Bureau of American 
Ethnology, with Mrs. Stirling, and Richard Stewart, staff photog- 
rapher for the National Geographic Society, recently returned from 
archeological explorations in the region of Parita, were welcome 
visitors in April. 
STUDIES ON DETERIORATION AND CORROSION 
During World War II a great amount of work was done on the 
island with refernce to deterioration and corrosion, much of it related 
to war needs. As the program continued, it became more and more 
apparent that the island was especially well fitted for this sort of 
work, and that in addition, the isolation gave security. The studies 
included not only fabrics, foodstuffs, and corrosion of lenses, but also 
packing and packaging, the use of substitute materials, and similar 
