In this volume are published the papers presented and the discussions held at the Pontifical Academy of Sciences during the Study Week on “Natural Products and the Protection of Plants” convened from October 18-23, 1976.
It was an interesting meeting and in general consensus a fruitful one, whose objectives well presented by Prof. G.B. Marini-Bettòlo in his initial discousse were more than largely fulfilled. It is my belief that this one is a field of scientific endeavours of great prospectives where significant progress can and should be achieved rapidly. It is an engaging field in which basic research and applied science have to move in nearness.
In forewarding this volume, as the Proceedings of the 14th “Study Week” held at the Pontifical Academy of Sciences, I wish to present my deepest thanks to all the participants of the Week, who so brillantly contributed by their papers and interventions to the success obtained. To these thanks I wish to add the expression of my gratitude to Prof. G.B. Marini-Bettòlo for the superb way in which he has completed the task of organizer of the Study Week and performed as its chairman. (...)
Carlos Chagas