ACS NEWS
ACS News Service to move to capital Transfer to ACS Washington headquarters will increase efficiency of the Society's PR program After a half century in New York, where it was established as a pioneer agency for reporting the progress of science and technology to the layman, the American Chemical Society News Service is moving to Washington this summer. Transfer of the News Service staff to ACS headquarters is expected to facilitate coordination and increase efficiency of the broad public relations program now conducted by the Society. In Washington, the News Service will join the other units of the staff Division of Public, Professional, and Member Relations, of which it has been a part since the creation of the division in 1960. Several other changes in the organization of the division have been made since the Society's national meeting in Miami Beach. The Office of Information Services has been discontinued and its duties redistributed. A new office responsible for providing liaison service to the Committee on Corporation Associates and in general for improving communications between the Society and industry will be set up. The Office of Chemistry and Public Affairs has been made a separate unit, reporting directly to the Executive Secretary of the Society. There will be no change in the status of the Office of Professional Relations. Establishment of the Division of Public, Professional, and Member Relations, in the Office of the Executive Secretary, was authorized by the Board of Directors in the fall of 1959 to foster favorable attitudes toward ACS and its objectives on the part of the public, government officials, and members of other scientific disciplines. The division also was charged with promoting better understanding between the Society's officers, directors, committees, and staff on one hand, and ACS members on the other (C&EN, Oct. 26, 1959, page 100). Originally, the division consisted of the Office of Information Services and the Office of Professional and Government Relations (now the Office of Professional Relations) in Washington and the News Service in New York. James H. Stack, who had been managing editor of the News Service since 1948, was appointed director of the division. Last year, the Office of 54 C&EN MAY 29, 1967
Chemistry and Public Affairs was established in the division to work with the committee of the same name. Reporting. From the start, the ACS News Service has been primarily concerned with reporting the achievements of chemists and chemical engineers to the public in cooperation with the news media. It also assists the Society's local sections and divisions in publicizing meetings, conferences, and other newsworthy activities. In addition, it produces the radio series "Men and Molecules." The News Service owes its origin to the Press and Publicity Committee of the Society, created in 1916 when the Publicity Committee of the Society and the Press and Publicity Committee of the New York Section were consolidated. At that time, the ACS Board of Directors appropriated a small sum of money for the clerical expenses of the committee but most of the work was done gratis. As the volume of scientific information increased, the work of the committee also expanded. In 1919 the committee's name was changed to the ACS News Service, so that copy might go out with the authority of the Society behind it. The editor of the Journal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry, now Industrial and Engineering Chemistry, was also the director of the News Service, which shared office space with the journal in New York. When the I&EC office moved to Washington in 1921, the New Service remained in New York under a part-time manager. Under the leadership of James T. Grady, who became managing editor in 1923, the News Service rapidly became an important source of science news and information for the newspaper and magazine writers, and later the radio broadcasters, of the country. Mr. Grady, director of public information for Columbia University, was one of the foremost publicists of his time, and the Society benefited greatly from his guidance in this field for 25 years. At the end of World War II, Mr. Grady retired from Columbia, opened an office for the News Service in New York, and began to build a fulltime staff. He retired in 1947 and Mr. Stack succeeded him.
Since 1960, when the Division of Public, Professional, and Member Relations was formed, Roy Avery has been managing editor of the News Service. He will continue in that capacity in Washington. Establishment of the division's new office to work with the Committee on Corporation Associates is a direct outgrowth of the changes made last year in that committee's functions. The Corporation Associates program was initiated in 1952 mainly to provide an additional source of support for Chemical Abstracts. Five years later the Society's financial policies were revised to balance expenditures more closely with operating revenue, and the Corporation Associates program went on a standby basis, though continuing to provide some revenue to aid research journals facing deficits. New purposes. Last year, the Board redefined the purposes of the Corporation Associates in an effort to provide a more meaningful link between the Society and industry. The former Board Standing Committee on Corporation Associates was changed to a special committee so that non-Board members could participate (C&EN, April 10, page 6 6 ) . The new staff office will work with this committee and will explore areas of mutual interest between the ACS and industry. In addition, the responsibilities of the office will include conducting surveys, gathering data, making reports, and maintaining contacts with industry, industrial organizations, and publications. Robert K. Neuman, who has been manager of the ACS Office of Information Services since its inception, will head the new office. The Office of Chemistry and Public Affairs, which now will report directly to Dr. B. R. Stanerson, Executive Secretary, provides staff assistance to both the Committee on Chemistry and Public Affairs and the Joint BoardCouncil Committee on Patent Matters and Related Legislation. Among the CPA Committee activities with which this office is currently concerned are studies of the science and technology of environmental improvement and the impact of chemistry on the national economy. Dr. Stephen T. Quigley is director of the office (C&EN, March 14, 1966. page 2 2 ) . Halley A. Merrell, a staff writer in the PP&MR Division for the past four years, has recently been named Dr. Quigley's assistant. David A. H. Roethel, manager of the Office of Professional Relations, provides staff assistance to the Committee on Professional Relations, Committee on Clinical Chemistry, Committee on Chemical Safety, and the Committee on Profession-Wide Pension Plan.
ACS Short Courses-Chicago national meeting Nine ACS Short Courses have been scheduled for this coming September in Chicago, in connection with the 154th national meeting. This will be the first presentation for four of the courses: Boron in Organic Chemistry, Carbonium Ions, High Temperature Chemistry, and Thermal Methods of Analysis. The nine courses will be given at the following Chicago universities: Illinois Institute of Technology Loyola University Northwestern University Roosevelt University University of Chicago University of Illinois, Chicago Circle There is no deadline for registration—applications will be accepted so long as there is room in each course, including the period after the Aug. 25 cancellation deadline. Early enrollment is strongly encouraged, however, to allow sufficient time for precourse study. ACS Short Courses are open to all—it is not necessary to be a member of the Society or a registrant at the meeting. A person requiring employer authorization should enroll without payment. However, if he then does not receive authorization he must cancel before the cancellation deadline or else be personally responsible for payment of the fee. A limited number of student registrations at one half the regular fee will be available in each course. Each student application must be accompanied by a note from a faculty member, on the department letterhead, stating that the registrant is a full-time undergraduate or graduate student. The discount will not apply to textbooks. Descriptions of the courses may be found on the following pages. The registration coupon for all the courses is on page 58. Complete information about the courses, as well as information about housing near the course sites, may be obtained by using the coupon.
Course
Electron Spin Resonance; three days; no textbook required
Professorin-charge
Dr. John E. Wertz, University of Minnesota
Date
Sept. 7-9
Fee
$50
Content
The course presents an introduction to the analysis and interpretation of electron spin resonance (ESR) spectra. A Varian E3 spectrometer will be used to take spectra of many samples, including solids. The effects of variation of experimental parameters and hyperfine splitting (by single nucleus, by a set of equivalent nuclei, and by nonequivalent nuclei) are explained and demonstrated with many spectra. Examples are taken from free radicals in solution, aliphatic radicals, and defects in solids. Assignment of hyperfine splittings to particular nuclei is treated in terms of elementary molecular orbital theory. Unpaired electron distribution and spin density are examined as bases for observed splittings. The splitting of spin levels in the absence of a magnetic field is described for systems with spin > 1. The results are applied to stable molecules and solid defects excited to the triplet state by radiation, and to systems which have a triplet ground state. Splitting of transition metal ion energy levels as a consequence of crystalline electric fields and spin-orbit coupling is introduced. Examples are worked out to obtain expressions for g-value components. Manipulation of spin operators is explained, assuming no previous experience with them.
For whom
Advanced undergraduates, graduate students, college teachers, industrial chemists, and biochemists, physicists, etc., who have had no previous detailed introduction to ESR. Knowledge of atomic and molecular structure comparable to that in present-day texts in physical chemistry is assumed. Mathematical techniques beyond elementary calculus are explained and illustrated with examples.
Course
Boron in Organic Chemistry; two days
Professorin-charge
Dr. Herbert C. Brown, Purdue University
Date
Sept. 8-9
Fee
$40; with textbook, $52
Required text
H. C. Brown, "Hydroboration," W. A. Benjamin, New York, 1962
Content
The course will deal with the synthesis of organoboranes through hydroboration and the utilization of the organoboranes as intermediates for synthesis. In addition, the applicability of diborane, the borohydrides, and other complex hydrides for selective reductions will be reviewed and systematized. Finally, there will be demonstrations of simple laboratory methods for quantitative research with the hydrides, and the utilization of these new, powerful reagents for synthetic purposes.
For whom
The course will assume the student has a good background in undergraduate organic chemistry and is interested in becoming familiar with the major new synthetic possibilities opened up by the new developments based on boron derivatives as reagents and intermediates. MAY 29, 1967 C&EN
55
Course
Optical Rotatory Dispersion and Circular Dichroism in Coordination Chemistry; two days; no textbook required
Professors
Dr. Stanley Kirschner, Wayne State University
Date
Sept. 8-9
Fee
$35
Content
The course will deal with theoretical aspects of optical activity, optical rotatory dispersion (ORD) and circular dichroism (CD), as well as with instrumentation, instrumental techniques, and the interpretation of ORD and CD curves of optically active coordination compounds. Topics to be covered in this course include an introduction to optical activity and optical rotatory dispersion, crystal field theory, the spectra of complexes, an introduction to circular dichroism, ORD and CD spectra-types, interpretations and applications to coordination compounds, the instrumentation of ORD and CD, stereoisomerism in coordination chemistry, resolution techniques for racemic complexes, magnetic optical activity, and related topics.
For whom
The course will be directed toward chemists having little or no knowledge of ORD and CD. It is assumed that the students in the course will hold at least a bachelor's degree in chemistry. The course is designed for industrial and academic chemists who have not had formal training in ORD and CD and who wish to obtain an introduction to the field which will facilitate their obtaining additional information and experience in the field in the future. The level will be that of a graduate "special topics" chemistry course.
Course
Interpretation of Infrared Spectra; two days
Dr. Bodie E. Douglas, University of Pittsburgh
Professor
Norman B. Colthup, American Cyanamid Co.
Date
Sept. 9-10
Fee
$30; with textbook, $42
Required text
N. B. Colthup, L. H. Daly, and S. E. Wiberley, "Introduction to Infrared and Raman Spectroscopy," Academic Press, New York, 1964
Content
The chief purpose of the course is to teach some elementary theory, particularly as it applies to spectral interpretation, and to go into a detailed study of the interpretation of infrared spectra. There will be no instruments to take spectra and no lab in spectral techniques; the problem sessions will consist of the interpretation of previously prepared spectra. Topics to be covered include: introductory theory of molecular vibrations and absorption of infrared radiation; origin of group frequencies and interaction and coupling effects; techniques used in obtaining infrared spectra; methods of making band assignments; selection rules, gas contours, and isotope effects; and interpretation of IR spectra of numerous organic compounds.
For whom
The course will be of most value to organic chemists who have made some preliminary use of IR spectroscopy as a tool for the study of molecular structure. However, no previous IR experience is required.
Course
Carbonium Ions; two days; no textbook required
Professorin-charge
Dr. George A. Olah, Case Western Reserve University
Date
Sept. 10-11
Fee
$40
Content
The course will be concerned with the fundamental properties of carbonium ions, both as transient, short-lived intermediates in solvolytic displacement reactions and related processes, and as stable, long-lived species in strong acid media. Among the topics to be discussed will be the following: basic'S N l conception; kinetics and stereochemistry; ion pairing; structure-reactivity relationship; neighboring group effects; generating methods and major types of long-lived carbonium ions; nuclear magnetic resonance and other spectroscopic investigations; rearrangements; bridged ion formation via pi and n-participation; the classical-nonclassical ion controversy; miscellaneous carbonium ion problems. The course will consist of three half-day lecture sessions, one laboratory session (NMR observation of stable carbonium ions), and a discussion session.
For whom
The course will be of interest principally to organic chemists, but it also touches on inorganic and physical chemistry. A reasonable background for this course is an understanding of the common reaction mechanisms of organic chemistry and spectroscopic methods, the sort of material chemistry majors now get in their undergraduate education. The course is designed particularly for the industrial and academic chemist with an interest in carbonium ions but not specialized in this field.
56 C&EN MAY 29, 1967
Course
High Temperature Chemistry; two days; no textbook required
Professorin-charge
Dr. John L. Margrave, Rice University
Date
Sept. 10-11
Fee
$35
Content
The course will cover the various methods for generation and measurement of high temperatures and selected examples of techniques for studying the chemical processes which occur in high temperature environments. Particular attention will be directed toward the synthetic possibilities available to the modern chemist through the use of high temperature species. Specific topics to be considered include: methods for generation of high temperatures; methods for measurement of high temperatures; high temperature thermodynamics; vapor pressure measurements; high temperature mass spectrometry; optical spectra of high temperature species; high temperature electron diffraction; high temperature kinetics; chemical syntheses with high temperature species; high temperature-high pressure phenomena.
For whom
The course will be at the level of an introductory graduate course in chemistry. It is assumed that the student will have a general familiarity with elementary thermodynamics as taught in undergraduate physical chemistry courses and with inorganic chemistry as covered in typical senior level courses. The course is designed particularly for industrial and academic chemists who have an interest in high temperature phenomena but who may not have had academic contact with this modern specialized area of inorganic and physical chemistry.
Course
Oxidation Reactions in Organic Chemistry; two days
Professor
Dr. Ross Stewart, University of British Columbia
Date
Sept. 12-13
Fee
$30; with textbook, $38
Required text
R. Stewart, "Oxidation Mechanisms:
Content
The course deals with the modes of oxidation of organic compounds by various reagents including the common inorganic oxidants such as Mn(VII), Cr(VI), Ce(IV), Pd(ll), Cu(ll), 0 2 , Br2 and organic reagents including carbonium ions, quinones, and certain coenzymes. The mechanisms of these processes are considered in terms of transfer of electrons, hydrogen atoms, hydride ions, oxygen (or other) atoms. The effects of structural variation in the substrate and variations in reaction conditions on rate and course of reaction are considered in terms of these mechanisms.
For whom
This course will be of interest principally to organic chemists but it impinges on inorganic, physical, and biochemistry as well. A reasonable background for this course is an understanding of the common reaction mechanisms of organic chemistry: the sort of material that chemistry majors now get in their undergraduate education. This would include S N 1, SN2, El, E2 mechanisms, radical chain mechanisms (polymerization of styrene or autoxidation of benzaldehyde), the transition state concept, carbonium ions, carbanions, radicals. In addition to this background, which most organic chemists have or can quickly pick up, it would be helpful if each registrant had an understanding of the Hammett equation and of kinetic isotope effects. Those who feel their background in the fundamentals of physical organic chemistry is deficient could read either Breslow "Organic Reaction Mechanisms," W. A. Benjamin, New York, 1965, or Stewart "The Investigation of Organic Reactions," Prentice-Hall, Englewood Cliffs, N.J., 1966. Each of these short paperbacks supplies enough background for the course.
Course
Radiochemistry; two days
Professor in-charge
Dr. Gregory R. Choppin, Florida State University
Applications to Organic Chemistry," W. A. Benjamin, New York, 1964
Date
Sept. 14-15
Fee
$35; with textbook, $37
Required text
G. R. Choppin, "Nuclei and Radioactivity," W. A. Benjamin, New York, 1964
Content
The course will be devoted to a review of the fundamentals of: radioactive decay; detection and counting of radiation; statistical analysis of counting data; interpretation of gamma spectra with emphasis on their use in activation analysis; principles of tracer techniques; liquid scintillation counting. In general, the material will be covered in lectures. Samples of counting data and of gamma ray spectra obtained by Nal(TI) and germanium detectors will be distributed and discussed during a problem session. Various techniques of liquid scintillation counting will be shown. No direct laboratory experience is planned.
For whom
Only an elementary background in mathematics and physics will be necessary. The course is intended to serve as a refresher for college teachers and as an introduction to tracer methods to chemists who work in areas other than nuclear chemistry. It will not be of direct interest to those concerned with the field of radiation chemistry. MAY 29, 1967 C&EN
57
Course
Thermal Methods of Analysis; three days
Professor in-charge
Dr. Wesley W. Wendlandt, University of Houston
Date
Sept. 14-16 $55; with textbook, $71 W. W. Wendlandt, "Thermal Methods of Analysis," Interscience, New York, 1964
Content
The course will cover the following thermoanalytical techniques: (1) thermogravimetric analysis (TGA); (2) differential thermal analysis (DTA); and (3) miscellaneous techniques. Each technique will be discussed in terms of its historical development, theory and principles of the measurement instrumentation, and chemical applications. Emphasis will be placed on the practical aspects of each of the techniques and their use to solve chemical problems.
For whom
This course will require a minimum training of a bachelor's degree in chemistry or other physical science. A background in undergraduate physical chemistry is also desirable. Since many of the above techniques are not very well known, the coverage wiU be on an elementary level throughout with little or no prior knowledge of the techniques required. The course will not be useful to those who have an extensive background in this area of instrumentation. : receive; authoriza- 1 my canicellation to 1
Fee Required text
[ Education Office J American Chemical Society 1155—16th St., N.W. Washington, D.C. 20036 1 Please send me course and housing information for: j ESR Infrared Carbonium
. Radiochem.
ORD/CD
High Temp.
. Thermal Anal.
|
f"8d>
[ Please enroll me in the indicated course(s): I
Electron Spin Resonance, Sept. 7-9, $50
1 •
Boron in Organic Chemistry, Sept. 8-9, registration only, $40 Boron in Organic Chemistry, registration plus textbook, $52
[
Optical Rotatory Dispersion, Sept. 8-9, $35
j j
Infrared Spectra, Sept. 9-10, registration only, $30 Infrared Spectra, registration plus textbook, $42 Carbonium Ions, Sept. 10-11, $40 High Temperature Chemistry, Sept. 10-11, $35 Oxidations, Sept. 12-13, registration only, $30 Oxidations, registration plus textbook, $38
Employer,
Employer addresi
e send1 invoic to me, 1 will b e sent when 1receiivecauthorizatii 1 tion, 1 am p>ersong illy r espcinsible for the) \CSEd ucatiorlOff ice, Washiingto
EC£S Bo Eg
Payment
Boron
Dyer), fide s 1 sc 25.
g?
Oxidations
Brode to leave ACS post Dr. Wallace R. Brode, who has been Foreign Secretary of the ACS for the past two years, will complete that assignment on June 15. He was appointed to the Society's staff in 1965 for one year, on a part-time basis, to head a new International Activities Office which had been created by the Board of Directors in recognition of the Society's growing interest and participation in international programs relating to ACS activities. In 1966, he was reappointed for a second year. Aside from his role in setting up the 58 C&EN MAY 29, 1967
1 1
Radiochemistry, Sept. 14-15, registration only, $35 Radiochemistry, registration plus textbook, $37
1 1
Thermal Methods of Analysis, Sept. 14-16, registration only, $55 Thermal Methods of Analysis, registration plus textbook, $71
j Please see pages 55, 56, and 57 for brief descriptions of the courses.
new office, Dr. Brode's responsibilities have included supervising the ACS-National Science FoundationAgency for International Development program for Latin America and a special program for the Central American area (CSUCA). He also has been staff liaison to the ACS Committee on International Activities, on which he will now serve as a member. As Foreign Secretary, Dr. Brode has edited a handbook of "Information on International Scientific Organizations, Services and Programs for Chemists, Chemical Engineers and Physicists." A joint ACS-American Institute of Physics project supported
by NSF, the handbook has been made available to chemists, engineers, and physicists upon request. An important contribution Dr. Brode has made to the Latin American program has been his part in administering a translation journal, Re vista Iberoamericana de Education Quimica (RIDEQ), which has ACS-NSFAID support and is distributed in Latin America with the assistance of the Mexican Chemical Society. The journal currently reproduces in Spanish and Portuguese material taken largely from three ACS publications, Chemistry, the Journal of Chemical Education, and C&EN.
