Shaler.] 188 [June 6, 
Mr. Morrison exhibited specimens of a yellow variety of 
Pieris rape, the Cabbage butterfly. This variety does not 
occur in Kurope. 
June 5, 1872. 
The President in the chair. Thirteen members present. 
Prof. Shaler made some remarks on the effects of the ver- 
tical position in man. 
All the organs which compose the trunk viscera of man were ’orig- 
inated and received their important features of form and relation in 
that part of the vertebrate series where the longitudinal axis lies par- 
allel to the horizon. In this attitude the pressure of the several 
organs one upon the other is very slight. The lungs, heart, liver, 
and the abdominal viscera, the uterus especially, are weighed upon 
by no other masses. Their own weight impels them against the 
elastic abdominal face of the body. When, however, the needs of 
the developing hand require the change in the attitude of the body, 
which takes place in man, these organs which have grown up without 
protection against pressure are suddenly brought under its influence. 
It is likely that the frequency of certain diseases of the lower trunk 
viscera, the kidneys and the bladder, may be attributed to this action. 
By far the most important effect, however, is exercised upon the 
reproductive tract. ‘The uterus was developed in a horizontal atti- 
tude, and when it became gravid its slightly dependent position 
secured it entirely against risks of displacement through the pelvic 
arch. | 
In the vertical attitude this organ, necessarily feebly attached, is 
brought into an extremely hazardous position with reference to this 
arch. The whole load of the surrounding viscera, as well as its own 
weight, tends to bring about an evagination. Something of the same 
risk, though in a less degree, threatens the anal section of the ali- 
mentary canal. As might be anticipated, there are great changes 
brought about in the configuration of the pelvis in consequence of 
this new danger. The integrity of the reproductive machinery must 
