Abstract: The present invention provides a method for producing megakaryocytes that have an increased capacity to produce platelets, the method comprising a step of culturing, under conditions that cause the death of cells that do not express a gene that is specifically expressed by megakaryocytes, cells that have the capacity to differentiate into megakaryocytes.

Abstract: 3,5,5-Trimethylcyclohexa-2-en-1,4-diones is prepared by oxidizing 3,5,5-trimethylcyclohexa-3-en-one with molecular oxygen or a molecular oxygen-containing gas in the presence of an organic base and an organometallic complex catalyst comprising manganese, iron, cobalt or copper atom and at least four nitrogen atoms coordination-bonded thereto.

Abstract: Process for preparing omega-hydroxy fatty acids of the formulaROCH.sub.2 (CH.sub.2).sub.n CH.sub.2 CH.sub.2 CH.sub.2 COOHwherein R is H or acyl, and n is an integer of 0 to 18,by a very simple operation without a trouble of pollution, which comprises catalytically reacting an omega-hydroxy (or acyloxy)-alkyl-.gamma.-butyrolactone of the formula ##STR1## wherein R and n are as defined above, in the presence of a hydrogenolysis catalyst. Compounds of formula (2) are novel, and a process for preparing them is also provided.The subject compounds are particularly useful as intermediates in the production of macrocyclic musk perfumes.

Abstract: Process for preparing omega-hydroxy fatty acids of the formulaROCH.sub.2 (CH.sub.2).sub.n CH.sub.2 CH.sub.2 CH.sub.2 COOHwhereinR is H or acyl, and n is an integer of 0 to 18,by a very simple operation without a trouble of pollution, which comprises catalytically reacting an omega-hydroxy (or acyloxy)-alkyl-.gamma.-butyrolactone of the formula ##STR1## wherein R and n are as defined above, in the presence of a hydrogenolysis catalyst.Compounds of formula (2) are novel, and a process for preparing them is also provided.