52 
IOWA ACADEMY OF SCIENCES. 
of physiology. It is true that the general student versed in 
these branches may secure a fair working knowledge of physi- 
ology simply from a good text, supplemented by ample anatom- 
ical demonstrations, complete diagrams and charts. But far 
more comxDrehensive will his views of the science be if a well- 
chosen list of experiments be worked by his own hand in a fully 
equipped physiological laboratory. 
A good proportion of students may usually be found in the 
college and university who are eager for such work and will 
pursue it with much enthusiasm, and if properly directed will 
obtain many satisfactory results. But it is a fact to be regret- 
ted that only the few in our larger universities are offered facil- 
ities for such a desirable course in this most interesting depart- 
ment of the biological sciences. This condition of affairs is 
chiefly due to two reasons. First, the expense of proper equip- 
ment is larger than most institutions can or desire to bear at 
present, especially so when other and more elementary subjects 
must first be provided for. Second, the number of teachers who 
possess adequate training in physiology is unfortunately lim- 
ited. But it is gratifying to note the recent increase in this 
class of instructors since the growing demands for more 
extended work in physiology have become apparent. 
A few days ago it became my interesting duty to examine the 
catalogues of all the colleges and universities in Iowa, and 
among other points the comparative courses in physiology were 
noted. Seven institutions, only, offer work beyond the elemen- 
tary study. Four of these offer one term of 10-12 weeks, while 
three submit a well planned course of one semester. That 
advanced physiology is one of the neglected studies in Iowa col- 
leges is a fact conclusively shown in the above. There is not 
only a need for decided advancement along this line, but an 
ample opportunity is found in the urgent demand repeatedly 
expressed for it by our most progressive pupils. If the finan- 
cial resources were unlimited such demands would soon be met, 
but since full supplies cannot be readily offered, the enterprising 
professor or pupil should not despair, for the requirements may 
often be met quite satisfactorily by humble methods. Many 
simple pieces of apparatus may be easily and quickly constructed 
at a very small expense, that may answer the purpose of others 
more elaborate and expensive. 
Instead of a kymograph or myograph of foreign manufacture, 
a revolving upright cylinder may be constructed for taking a 
