Mass spectra of nine of the sixteen possible diastereoisomeric 7-hydroxytricyclo[7.3.0.02,6]dodecanes are reported. The spectra differ considerably in the extent of water elimination from molecular ions. The diastereoisomers which have conformationally flexible cis-anti-cis, cis-anti-trans and cis-syn-trans skeletons exhibit abundant (M-H2O)+. ions. Molecular ions of the rigid trans-anti-trans isomers lose water to a markedly smaller extent, the main fragmentation proceeding via a skeletal cleavage. Effects of conformational mobility are emphasized.
AbstractWe present a comprehensive study of the optical and electronic properties of a series of oligothiophenes in which one or two inter-ring torsional angles have been blocked by chemical bridging. These give us the possibility to investigate the role of the conformational mobility and of the coupling with the inter-ring torsion on the deactivation process of the singlet excited states. We find that both the radiative and the non-radiative deactivation channels are affected by the inter-ring bridging.
AbstractWhitehouse adapts insights from evolutionary anthropology to interpret extreme self-sacrifice through the concept of identity fusion. The model neglects the role of normative systems in shaping behaviors, especially in relation to violent extremism. In peaceful groups, increasing fusion will actually decrease extremism. Groups collectively appraise threats and opportunities, actively debate action options, and rarely choose violence toward self or others.
AbstractIntuitions guide decision-making, and looking to the evolutionary history of humans illuminates why some behavioral responses are more intuitive than others. Yet a place remains for cognitive processes to second-guess intuitive responses – that is, to be reflective – and individual differences abound in automatic, intuitive processing as well.
Abstract
Tomasello offers a compelling account of the emergence of humans’ sense of obligation. We suggest that more needs to be said about the role of affect in the creation of obligations. We also argue that positive emotions such as gratitude evolved to encourage individuals to fulfill cooperative obligations without the negative quality that Tomasello proposes is inherent in obligations.