Abstract: The present invention is concerned with a novel biotransformation process for producing 17.beta.-N-monosubstituted carbamoyl-11-oxo-4-aza-5-.alpha.-androst-3-ones of the formula: ##STR1## These compounds are testosterone 5-.alpha. reductase inhibitors and are produced via a claimed novel biotransformation process using the green algae, Selenastrum capricornutum.

Abstract: A process is described which uses a "cold" gas shock to accelerate microprojectiles wherein particles are presented to the gas shock on a planar surface perpendicular to the plane of expansion of the gas shock wave. Several different apparatus capable of accomplishing this method are described.

Abstract: A method of producing a brassinosteroid is disclosed, wherein crown gall cells capable of producing the brassinosteroid are cultured in a culture medium in the presence of a cultivation aid selected from auxins, sterols, squalene, casamino acid and mixtures thereof.

Abstract: A new antibiotic designated BU-4061T is produced by fermentation of actinomycete strain Q996-17 (ATCC-53904). The BU-4061T antibiotic exhibits both in vitro and in vivo antitumor activity.

Abstract: The compounds of Formula I are produced by the aerobic fermentation of a fungus of the genus GLIOCLADIUM, ATCC No. 20826. ##STR1## The compounds of Formula I are inhibitors of testosterone 5.alpha.-reductase and are useful in the treatment and prevention of acne, seborrhea, female hirsutism and benign prostatic hypertrophy.

Abstract: There is provided the novel compound 11-hydroxypregn-4-en-3-one-20-carbaldehyde, as well as a microbial method for production of the same. This novel compound is of value as a starting material for antiinflammatory corticoids such as hydrocortisone, cortisone, prednisolone and prednisone.

Abstract: Difficidin and derivative antibacterial compounds of the formula: ##STR1## where R.sub.a and R.sub.b are members independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen; alkali metal and alkaline earth metal cations; ammonium; and substituted ammonium; and R.sup.1 is hydrogen or hydroxy.

Abstract: Microbiological conversions of cyclodextrins are intensified by adding to the reaction mixture 0.2 to 3 moles of .alpha.-, .beta.- or .gamma.-cyclodextrin or an optical mixture thereof pro mole of the steroid substrate, before, at the beginning or during the conversion. The cyclodextrin if desired, can be removed after the reaction. In this way the reaction velocity can be increased, the reaction time is reduced, the substrate concentration in the solution, i.e. its solubility is increased or the so called product inhibition may be avoided. In certain cases of more alternatives the desired reaction can be catalyzed and in this manner the selectivity is increased.