PREFACE TO FIFTH EDITION. 



In the preparation of a Fifth Edition of the Compend of Physiology, 

 the author has taken the opportunity to revise and rewrite a number of 

 sections, to insert a few figures and to add some seventeen pages of new 

 matter which, it is hoped, will further increase its usefulness to the student. 

 While many of the changes that have been made will be found distributed 

 throughout the body of the work, the principal additions will be found in 

 the sections pertaining to the nervous system. 



Notwithstanding the many additions which have been made in this and 

 previous editions, care has been taken to keep the Compend what it was 

 originally intended to be, viz: A compact and convenient arrangement of 

 the fundamental facts of human physiology. 



As most medical students enter upon the study of physiology before they 

 have acquired a thorough knowledge of anatomy, it was thought desirable 

 that such anatomical details should also be inserted as would be essential 

 to a clear conception of the functions about to be studied. It is believed 

 that it will be practically useful to students during their attendance upon 

 lectures and in reviewing the subject prior to examinations. 



To those teachers of physiology who have kindly noticed and recom- 

 mended the Compend to their students I tender my thanks, and trust that 

 in its improved condition it will continue to merit their approval. 



ALBERT P. BRUBAKER. 



