Abstract: Compounds of the general formula, including isomers and tautomers thereof: ##STR1## wherein: R.sup.1 to R.sup.5 are as defined in the text; the compounds have herbicidal and plant growth regulating properties; including compositions containing them, methods for using them and intermediates for making them.

Abstract: Compounds of the general formula (2) and isomeric and/or tautomeric forms thereof ##STR1## characterized in that R.sup.1 is selected from the group consisting of: hydrogen; alkyl; alkenyl; alkynyl; cycloalkyl; cycloalkenyl; substituted alkyl or substituted cycloalkyl wherein the alkyl or cycloalkyl group is substituted with a substituent selected from the group consisting of alkoxy, alkylthio, optionally substituted phenyl, optionally substituted heterocycle; optionally substituted phenyl; optionally substituted heterocycle, alkyl sulfonyl; optionally substituted benzene sulfonyl; an acyl group; and an inorganic or organic cation;R.sup.

Abstract: There is disclosed a novel total synthesis of Thalicarpine which includes inter alia a total synthesis of hernandaline. The novel process is characterized in utilizing simple and readily available starting materials to form a diaryl ether system which is then condensed with a 3,4-dihydroisoquinolinium salt which is then converted to hernandaline. Hernandaline is reacted with a bicyclic Reissert compound to yield a compound having the thalicarpine skeleton, nascent hydrogen reduction yields N-monodesmethyl thalicarpine which is methylated.

Abstract: Oxidative coupling of non-phenolic compounds is attained by subjecting said non-phenolic compound to oxidizing conditions in contact with an oxidant selected from the group of VOF.sub.3, MoOCl.sub.4, Pb.sub.3 O.sub.4, Tl(CF.sub.3 COO).sub.3, CrO.sub.3, MnO.sub.2, Co(OH).sub.3, Ce(SO.sub.4).sub.2, and Ce(NH.sub.4).sub.2 (NO.sub.3).sub.6.