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Pure Appl. Chem., 2012, Vol. 84, No. 4, pp. iv

Preface

Benjamin T. King

The 14th International Symposium on Novel Aromatic Compounds (ISNA-14), held in Eugene, OR, USA from 24 to 29 July 2011, dealt with broad themes: molecular design, geometry, and function, realized through the hands of chemists. Aromatic compounds underlie these themes in the same way that stone and steel underlie architecture. Indeed, the ISNA conferences have been central to the development of the architectural approach to chemistry.

The 256 ISNA-14 participants came from around the globe and enjoyed 62 talks, 148 posters, and a fine social program. The Nozoe Lecture, delivered by Prof. Peter Bäuerle of the University of Ulm, initiated an avalanche of outstanding science that lasted five days. The participation of many first-time attendees and seasoned ISNA veterans demonstrated the continuing vitality of the ISNA series and bodes well for ISNA-15, to be held in Taipei, Taiwan from 28 July to 2 August 2013.

The University of Oregon was a delightful venue for the conference. Excursions to the ocean and to vineyards provided opportunities to meet old friends, make new ones, and see this lovely corner of the world. And, lo and behold, it did not rain!

This issue of Pure and Applied Chemistry is a microcosm of ISNA-14, reflecting the thoughts, trends, scientific style, and problems addressed. The compilation of papers is synergistic and tells us more than each story taken separately—it tells us what chemists are thinking about now. I hope this issue might today pique the curiosity and creativity of a new investigator or might tomorrow reveal the key role played by novel aromatic compounds in the development of chemistry.


Benjamin T. King
Conference Co-chair