Abstract: The invention provides a novel group of 4(Z)-6-([2,4,5-cis]-2-alkyl-4-o-hydroxyphenyl-1,3-dioxan-5-yl)hexenoic acids of formula I wherein R is branched alkyl of 3-5 carbon atoms and one of X and Y is hydrogen or fluoro and the other is hydrogen, and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts; together with their pharmaceutical compositions for use in treating a variety of disease conditions. Also provided are methods for the manufacture of the novel compounds. A representative compound is that in which R is t-butyl ans X and Y are both hydrogen.

Abstract: The invention concerns novel [5,6]-cis-1,3-oxathiane derivatives of formula I in which R.sup.1 and R.sup.2 are variously defined as hydrogen, alkyl, trifluoromethyl or phenyl (as set out in the specification), n is 1 or 2, m is 2, 3 or 4, Y is vinylene and Z is carboxy, 1(H)-tetrazol-5-yl or a group of the formula --CO.NH.SO.sub.2 R.sup.3 in which R.sup.3 is alkyl, phenyl or benzyl, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, for use in conjunction with their pharmaceutical compositions in treating certain pulmonary and/or vascular disorders. The invention also describes various processes and intermediates for the manufacture of the novel compounds.

Abstract: Novel ether, ester, urethane, thiourethane and carbonate derivatives of the ruminant growth promoters, M.139,603, M.139,603-adlehyde and oxime etc. derivatives thereof, all of which are effective in reducing the proportion of methane produced by ruminal fermentation, and increasing the proportion of propionic acid at the expense of acetic acid in the rumen contents; together with processes for their manufacture, compositions containing them, and their use in increasing growth and/or feed efficiency in ruminant animals.