Abstract: Novel pharmaceutically/cosmetically-active aromatic polyenic compounds have the structural formula (I): ##STR1## and are useful for the treatment of a wide variety of disease states, whether human or veterinary, for example dermatological, rheumatic, respiratory, cardiovascular, bone and ophthalmological disorders, as well as for the treatment of mammalian skin and hair conditions/disorders.

Abstract: Compounds of Formula 1 ##STR1## wherein m is 1-4; R.sub.1 -R.sub.4 independently are hydrogen, lower alkyl of 1 to 6 carbons, Cl, Br, or I; R.sub.5 is hydrogen, lower alkyl of 1 to 6 carbons, Cl, Br, I, lower alkoxy or lower thioalkoxy of 1-6 carbons; R.sub.6 is hydrogen, lower alkyl, Cl, Br, I, OR.sub.11, SR.sub.11, OCOR.sub.11, SCOR.sub.11, NH.sub.2, NHR.sub.11, N(R.sub.11).sub.2, NHCOR.sub.11 OR NR.sub.11 --COR.sub.11 ; R.sub.20 is independently hydrogen or lower alkyl; Y is an aromatic group such as phenyl or naphthyl, or a heteroaryl group selected from a group consisting of pyridyl, thienyl, furyl, pyridazinyl, pyrimidinyl, pyrazinyl, thiazolyl and oxazolyl; A is (CH.sub.2).sub.n where n is 0-5, lower branched chain alkyl having 3-6 carbons, cycloalkyl having 3-6 carbons, alkenyl having 2-6 carbons and 1 or 2 double bonds, alkynyl having 2-6 carbons and 1 or 2 triple bonds; B is hydrogen, COOH or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, COOR.sub.8, CONR.sub.9 R.sub.10, --CH.sub.2 OH, CH.sub.2 OR.sub.

Abstract: A polycyclic aromatic compound having the formula ##STR1## and its salts have useful therapeutic and cosmetic action particularly in psoriasis.In the formula, X represents --CH.dbd.CH--, O or S,R.sub.1 represents hydrogen, branched alkyl having 3-15 carbon atoms, alkoxy having 1-6 carbon atoms or 1-adamantyl, R.sub.2 represents hydroxy, hydrogen, linear or branched alkyl having 1-15 carbon atoms or alkoxy having 1-6 carbon atoms, with the proviso that R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 are not simultaneously hydrogen, or R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 together with the adjacent carbon atoms of the naphthalene ring form a 5 or 6 chain ring optionally substituted by at least one lower alkyl radical, or interrupted by an oxygen atom,R.sub.3 represents --CH.sub.2 OH or --COR.sub.4, or --CH.sub.3 when R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 taken together form a 5 or 6 chain ring,R.sub.4 represents --OR.sub.5 or ##STR2## R.sub.

Abstract: Compounds of Formula 1 ##STR1## wherein Z is selected from the group consisting of the radicals shown in Formula 2 and in Formula 3, ##STR2## Y is cycloalkyl or cycloalkenyl of 3 to 8 carbons optionally substituted with one or two R.sub.4 groups, or Y is selected from phenyl, pyridyl, thienyl, furyl, pyrrolyl, pyridazinyl, pyrimidinyl, pyrazinyl, thiazolyl, oxazolyl, and imidazolyl, said groups being optionally substituted with one or two R.sub.4 groups, the divalent Y radical being substituted by the Z and --CR.sub.1 .dbd.CR.sub.1 --CR.sub.1 .dbd.CR.sub.1 groups on adjacent carbons; X is S, O, or NR.sub.5 ; n is 1 or 2; R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 independently are H, lower alkyl or fluoroalkyl; R.sub.3 is hydrogen, lower alkyl, Cl or Br; R.sub.4 is lower alkyl, fluoroalkyl or halogen; R.sub.5 is H or lower alkyl, and B is hydrogen, COOH or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, COOR.sub.8, CONR.sub.9 R.sub.10, --CH.sub.2 OH, CH.sub.2 OR.sub.11, CH.sub.2 OCOR.sub.11, CHO, CH(OR.sub.12).sub.2, CHOR.sub.

Abstract: Compounds of the formula ##STR1## wherein the symbols have the meaning described in the specification, have retinoid-like biological activity.

Abstract: 1,2,2,2-Tetrafluoroethyl ethers of the formula IR--(A.sup.1 --Z.sup.1).sub.m --A.sup.2 --Z.sup.2 A.sup.3 --O--CHF--CF.sub.3(I)are suitable as components of liquid-crystalline media whereinR is H, a substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkenyl radical having 1 to 15 carbon atoms,A.sup.1 and A.sup.2 are each, independently of one another, a(a) trans-1,4-cyclohexylene radicals and derivatives thereof in which, in addition, one or more non-adjacent CH.sub.2 groups is optionally replaced by --O-- and/or --S--,(b) 1,4-phenylene radicals and derivatives thereof in which, in addition, one or two CH groups is optionally replaced by N, or(c) radical from the group consisting of 1,4-cyclohexenylene, 1,4-bicyclo(2,2,2)octylene, piperidine-1,4-diyl, naphthalene-2,6-diyl, decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl and 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl,wherein radicals (a) and (b) are optionally substituted by one or two fluorine atoms,Z.sup.1 and Z.sup.2 are each, independently of one another, --CO--O--, --O--CO--, --CH.sub.

Abstract: A compound of the formula (I) or its pharmaceutically acceptable salt or ester: ##STR1## wherein each of the substituents are herein defined.

Abstract: Compounds of the formula (I): Ar.sub.1 --CH(OH)--CH.sub.2 --NH--CH.sub.2 --X--CH.sub.2 --E--(CH.sub.2).sub.n --Y--Ar.sub.2, in which the substituents and symbols have the meanings given in the description, are novel active compounds having, in particular, a broncholytic action.

Abstract: Di(aromatic) compounds corresponding to the following formula: ##STR1## in which: Ar represents either ##STR2## X represents a divalent radical, Z represents O, S or a divalent radical,and R.sub.1, R.sub.2, R.sub.3, R.sub.4 and R.sub.5 represent a hydrogen atom or various organic radicals, and the salts of the compounds of formula (I) when R.sub.1 is a carboxylic acid function.Use in human and veterinary medicine and in cosmetics.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and pharmaceutical preparations for inhibiting the growth of bacterial microorganisms.

Abstract: Novel compounds of Formula 1 ##STR1## or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof are disclosed. Also disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions containing compounds of Formula 1. Methods of treating allergy, inflammation and hyperproliferative skin diseases with compounds of Formula 1 are also disclosed.

Abstract: There is provided a process for preparing an arylacetic acid or arylpropionic acid divative from an arylcarbinol which comprises the step of subjecting said arylcarbinol to suitable carbonylation conditions for a sufficient period of time and under suitable pressure and temperature to form said acid derivative, with the proviso that said carbonylation conditions include conducting the reaction in a two-phase system wherein one phase is an aqueous medium which contains (1) a catalyst which is a water-soluble metal complex consisting essentially of a Group VIII metal and a hydrophilic ligand such as palladium complexed with trisulfonated triphenylphosphine, and (2) optionally an acid, and wherein the second phase comprises said arylcarbinol.

Abstract: An acetylene derivative represented by general formula (I): ##STR1## wherein R.sup.1 is saturated or unsaturated alkyl group having 3-20 carbon atoms, R.sup.2 is saturated or unsaturated alkyl group having 1-20 carbon atoms which may optionally be substituted by halogen atom or alkoxyalkyl group having 2-20 carbon atoms, A and B represent phenylene group or the like or taken as --A--B-- represent naphthalene group or the like, m and s are each 0 or 1, n is integer of 1-6, and * means asymmetric carbon atom; a process for producing said acetylene derivative, a liquid crystal composition using the same as active ingredient, and a liquid crystal element using said composition.

Abstract: This invention relates to a retinoid mpound of formula I ##STR1## in which Y is --CO--NH--, --CR.sup.2 .dbd.CR.sup.3 --, --CO--O--, --O--CO--, --C(.dbd.S)--NH--, --C.tbd.C--, --O--CH.sub.2 --, --CH.sub.2 --O--, or --CH.sub.2 --CH.sub.2 --;A is --(CH.sub.2).sub.t -- or a bond;Q is phenyl optionally substituted with one to three same or different C.sub.1-6 alkyl, C.sub.1-6 alkoxy, halogen, or --CO.sub.2 R.sup.4 ;R.sup.1 is --CO.sub.2 Z, --CONHR.sup.5, C.sub.1-6 alkyl, --CH.sub.2 OH, or --CHO;R.sup.2, R.sup.3, R.sup.4, R.sup.5, and Z are independently hydrogen or C.sub.1-6 alkyl;t is one to six.

Abstract: Pharmaceutical compounds of the formula ##STR1## in which R.sup.1 and R.sup.3 are each C.sub.1-4 alkyl or C.sub.1-4 alkyl-carbonyl, and R.sup.2 is carboxy, tetrazolyl, C.sub.1-4 alkyl-sulphonamido or --CR.sup.4 R.sup.5 CO.sub.2 H where R.sup.4 and R.sup.5 are each hydrogen or C.sub.1-4 alkyl; provided that when R.sup.1 and R.sup.3 are both methyl and when R.sup.1 and R.sup.3 are both methylcarbonyl, R.sup.2 is not carboxy; and salts and esters thereof.

Abstract: Compounds of Formula 1 ##STR1## where R.sub.1 -R.sub.5 are hydrogen, lower alkyl of 1-6 carbons, or halogen; A is (CH.sub.2).sub.n where n is 0-5, lower branched chain alkyl having 3-6 carbons, cycloalkyl having 3-6 carbons, alkenyl having 2-6 carbons and 1 or 2 double bonds, alkynyl having 2-6 carbons and 1 or 2 triple bonds; B is hydrogen, COOH or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, COOR.sub.8, CONR.sub.9 R.sub.10, --CH.sub.2 OH, CH.sub.2 OR.sub.11, CH.sub.2 OCOR.sub.11, CHO, CH(OR.sub.12).sub.2, CHOR.sub.13 O, --COR.sub.7, CR.sub.7 (OR.sub.12).sub.2, or CR.sub.7 OR.sub.13 O, where R.sub.7 is an alkyl, cycloalkyl or alkenyl group containing 1 to 5 carbons, R.sub.8 is an alkyl group of 1 to 10 carbons, or a cycloalkyl group of 5 to 10 carbons, or R.sub.8 is phenyl or lower alkylphenyl, R.sub.9 and R.sub.10 independently are hydrogen, an alkyl group of 1 to 10 carbons, or a cycloalkyl group of 5-10 carbons, or phenyl or lower alkylphenyl, R.sub.11 is lower alkyl, phenyl or lower alkylphenyl, R.sub.

Abstract: Bridged bicyclic aromatic compounds are provided having the structure ##STR1## wherein R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3, R.sup.4, R.sup.5 and n are as defined herein. The novel compounds are useful for modulating gene expression of retinoic acid receptors, vitamin D receptors and thyroid receptors. Pharmaceutical compositions and methods for modulating gene expression are provided as well.

Abstract: Fluoromethyl ketones of the formula I ##STR1## are suitable as components of liquid-crystalline media wherein R is H, a substituted or unsubstituted alkyl or alkenyl radical having 1 to 15 carbon atoms,A.sup.1 and A.sup.2 are each, independently of one another, a(a) trans-1,4-cyclohexylene radicals and derivatives thereof in which, in addition, one or more non-adjacent CH.sub.2 groups is optionally replaced by --O-- and/or --S--,(b) 1,4-phenylene radicals and derivatives thereof in which, in addition, one or two CH groups is optionally replaced by N, or(c) radical from the group consisting of 1,4-cyclohexenylene, 1,4-bicyclo(2,2,2)octylene, piperidine-1,4-diyl, naphthalene-2,6-diyl, decahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl and 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene-2,6-diyl,wherein radicals (a) and (b) are optionally substituted by one or two fluorine atoms,Z.sup.1 and Z.sup.2 are each, independently of one another, --CO--O--, --O--CO--, --CH.sub.2 O--, --OCH.sub.2 --, --CH.sub.2 CH.sub.2 --, --CH.dbd.CH--, --C.tbd.

Abstract: Process of treatment of mammals, including humans to treat diseases or conditions of the type which are normally treated with retinoid-like compounds is disclosed, with pharmaceutical compositions containing an active compound which is a selective agonist of the RXR retinoid receptor sites in preference to the RAR retinoid receptor sites. A compound is defined to be a selective agonist of the RXR receptor site if the compound is at least approximately ten times more effective as an agonist in the RXR receptor sites than in the RAR receptor sites.

Abstract: Di(aromatic) compounds corresponding to the following formula: ##STR1## in which: Ar represents either ##STR2## n=1 or 2 or: ##STR3## X represents a divalent radical, Z represents O, S or a divalent radical, and R.sub.1, R.sub.2, R.sub.3, R.sub.4 and R.sub.5 represent a hydrogen atom or various organic radicals, and the salts of the compounds of formula (I) when R.sub.1 is a carboxylic acid function. Use is in human and veterinary medicine and in cosmetics.

Abstract: Optically active naphthalene derivatives including optically active naphthylcarboxylic acid derivative, hydroxynaphthalene derivative, alkoxynaphthylalkanol derivative and alkylnaphthylalkanol derivative have the following structural formula: ##STR1## wherein R.sup.1 denotes an alkyl group of 3-20 carbon atoms, R.sup.2 denotes an alkyl group of 1-20 carbon atoms optionally substituted with halogen atom(s) or an alkoxyalkyl group of 2-20 carbon atoms optionally substituted with halogen atom(s), X denotes --COO-- or --OCO--, k, l and m denotes 0 or 1 respectively, n denotes an integer of 0-6, p denotes 0 or 1, and the asterisk indicates an asymmetric carbon atom, with the proviso that when k is 0, l and m are not 1 at the same time, and when k is 1, m is 1, and when n is 0 and m is 1, X is --COO--.

Abstract: Novel substituted cyclic compounds of Formula I are found to be useful inhibitors of matrix metalloendoproteinase-mediated diseases including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, septic arthritis, tumor invasion in certain cancers, periodontal disease, corneal ulceration, proteinuria, dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, and coronary thrombosis associated with atherosclerotic plaque rupture. The matrix metalloendoproteinases are a family of zinc-containing proteinases including but not limited to stromelysin, collagenase, and gelatinase, that are capable of degrading the major components of articular cartilage and basement membranes. The inhibitors claimed herein may also be useful in preventing the pathological sequelae following a traumatic injury that could lead to a permanent disability. These compounds may also be useful as novel birth control agents by preventing ovulation or implantation.

Abstract: A new process for preparing aryl-substituted aliphatic carboxylic acids is provided. Aryl-substituted aliphatic ether or thioether compound is reacted with carbon monoxide in aqueous conditions at a temperature between about 25.degree. C. and about 200.degree. C. An acid such as hydrochloric acid may be added. As catalyst, a mixture of palladium or a palladium compound and a copper compound with at least one acid-stable ligand are present.

Abstract: Alkylphenyl alkyl ethers or alkylphenyl alkyl thioethers, of the formula ##STR1## where U represents O or S; and R.sub.1 -R.sub.6 each independently represent an alkyl or aryl group with 1-6 C atoms, but R.sub.1 -R.sub.5 may each independently represent a functional group other than these, particularly --COOR (R=C.sub.1-4 alkyl), --NO.sub.2, --NH.sub.2, --O--CH.sub.2 --CH.sub.2 --OH, --OH, --CHO, --H, or -halogen;R.sub.1 -R.sub.5 may be bridged by suitable bifunctional substituents, such as, e.g., --(CH.sub.2).sub.x --, or --(CH.sub.2).sub.x --Z--(CH.sub.2).sub.y -- (where Z represents a hetero atom; x=0-7 and y=0-7), or by unsaturated substituents or anellated ring systems; may be produced in high space-time yield by reacting the corresponding phenol or thiophenol with a arylalkyl carbonate at a temperature of 70.degree.-300.degree. C. under elevated or normal pressure, in the presence of a monocyclic, bicyclic, polycyclic, or acyclic amidine as a catalyst.

Abstract: The preparation of 3-arylacrylic acids and their derivatives I ##STR1## where Ar is aryl which can additionally have substituents which do not react with ketene and are stable under the conditions of the reaction described below, andR.sup.1 is hydrogen, an alkali metal, an alkaline earth metal, ammonium or C.sub.1 -C.sub.20 -alkyl,comprises a first stage in which a dialkyl acetal of an aromatic aldehyde of the formula II ##STR2## where R.sup.2 is C.sub.1 -C.sub.4 -alkyl, is reacted with ketene of the formula CH.sub.2 .dbd.C.dbd.O in the presence of catalytic amounts of a protic or Lewis acid to give a 3-arylpropionic acid derivative of the formula III ##STR3## and a second stage in which this intermediate III is reacted in the presence of acid or base and, in the case where R.sup.1 is C.sub.1 -C.sub.20 -alkyl, additionally with a C.sub.1 -C.sub.20 -alkanol to give the final product I.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, there are provided carboxylate compounds represented by the following formula [A] and liquid crystal material comprising said compounds ##STR1## wherein R is a group selected from the group consisting of alkyl, alkoxy and halogenated alkyl group of 3-20 carbon atoms, X and Y represent each a group selected from the group consisting of --COO--, --OCO--, --CH.sub.2 CH.sub.2 --, --CH.sub.2 O--, --OCH.sub.2 --, --S--S--, ##STR2## or a single bond, A and B represent each a group selected from the group consisting of specific divalent aromatic and alicyclic group such as phenylene, cyclohexylene and tetrahydronaphthalene and R* is an optically active group of 4-20 carbon atoms containing at least one asymmetric carbon atom (hydrogen atoms attached to the carbon atoms of said optically active group may be substituted with halogen atoms), and m and n are each an integer of 0-2, with the proviso that both m and n do not become 0 at the same time.

Abstract: The invention is an expedient route to synthesizing substituted or unsubstituted aryl-2-propenoic esters. The substituted or unsubstituted aryl-2-propenoic esters are useful in preparing optically active substituted or unsubstituted 2-arylpropanoic acids known to be active anti-inflammatory agents.

Abstract: The present invention discloses pesticidally active compounds of formula (II) ##STR1## or a salt thereof, wherein Q is an monocyclic aromatic ring, or fused bicyclic ring system of which at least one ring is aromatic containing 9 or 10 atoms of which one may be nitrogen and the rest carbon each ring system being optionally substituted, or Q is a dihalovinyl group or a group R.sup.6 --C.tbd.C-- where R.sup.6 is C.sub.1-4 alkyl, tri C.sub.1-4 alkylsilyl, halogen or hydrogen; R.sup.2, R.sup.3 , R.sup.4 and R.sup.5 are the same or different with at least one being hydrogen and the others being independently selected from hydrogen, halo, C.sub.1-4 alkyl or C.sub.1-4 haloalkyl; and R.sup.1 is selected from hydrogen and C.sub.1-8 hydrocarbyl optionally substituted by dioxalanyl, halo, cyano, trifluoromethyl, trifluoromethylthio or C.sub.1-6 alkoxy and X.sup.1 is hydrogen, fluoro or chloro.

Abstract: A cobalt based catalyst, and the method for preparing it, are disclosed. The catalyst is obtained from the reaction between NaCo(CO).sub.4 and s-trichloro triazine and is advantageously used in the processes of carbonylation of naphthalene mono- and disulfonates in order to yield naphthalene esters and acids.

Abstract: Compounds of the formula ##STR1## wherein m is 1-4; R.sub.1 -R.sub.4 independently are hydrogen, lower alkyl of 1 to 6 carbons, Cl, Br, or I; R.sub.5 is hydrogen, lower alkyl of 1 to 6 carbons, Cl, Br, I, lower alkoxy or lower thioalkoxy of 1-6 carbons; R.sub.6 is hydrogen, lower alkyl, Cl, Br, I, OR.sub.11, SR.sub.11, OCOR.sub.11, SCOR.sub.11, NH2, NHR.sub.11, N(R.sub.11).sub.2, NHCOR.sub.11 OR NR.sub.11 --COR.sub.11 ; R.sub.20 is independently hydrogen or lower alkyl; A is (CH.sub.2).sub.n where n is 0-5, lower branched chain alkyl having 3-6 carbons, cycloalkyl having 3-6 carbons, alkenyl having 2-6 carbons and 1 or 2 double bonds, alkynyl having 2-6 carbons and 1 or 2 triple bonds; B is hydrogen, COOH or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, COOR.sub.8, CONR.sub.9 R.sub.10, --CH.sub.2 OH, CH.sub.2 OR.sub.11, CH.sub.2 OCOR.sub.11, CHO, CH(OR.sub.12).sub.2, CHOR.sub.13 O, --COR.sub.7, CR.sub.7 (OR.sub.12).sub.2, or CR.sub.7 OR.sub.13 O, where R.sub.

Abstract: A ruthenium-phosphite complex having the formula ##STR1## wherein a is from 1 to 3; b is 1 or 2; c is from 0 to 3; and R is hydrogen, alkyl, aryl, halo, amino, acetylamino, or sulfo; and X is ##STR2## where R.sub.1, R.sub.2, and R.sub.3 are the same or different and are hydrogen or C.sub.1 to C.sub.6 linear or branched alkyl.This complex can be used to effect the reduction of unsaturated organic compounds or, when comprised of ligands having optical activity, can be used as the catalyst for effecting the asymmetric reduction of unsaturated organic compounds.

Abstract: Disclosed are novel liquid crystal compounds containing a naphthalene ring, having an excellent light leaking ratio at tristable states, and represented by the following formula: ##STR1## wherein R.sub.1 is a C.sub.6 -C.sub.16 linear alkyl group or C.sub.6 -C.sub.16 linear alkoxy group, R.sub.2 is a C.sub.4 -C.sub.12 linear alkyl group, R.sub.3 is a C.sub.1 -C.sub.3 alkyl group or C.sub.1 -C.sub.3 haloalkyl group, and C having an asterisk indicates an asymmetric atom.The liquid crystal compounds are expected to find their applications in electrooptical devices and liquid crystal displays utilizing a S*.sub.(3) liquid crystal phase which shows tristable states.

Abstract: Liquid crystal compound of the formula ##STR1## wherein R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 each is a C.sub.1-18 alkyl group or an aralkyl group, R' is haloalkyl group, X is --O--, --CO--, --COO-- or direct bond, Y is --COO--, --OCO-- or --CH.sub.2 O--, (A) and (B) each is ##STR2## and p and l each is zero or one.

Abstract: A new process for preparing aryl substituted aliphatic carboxylic acid esters is provided. A 1-aryl substituted aliphatic halo compound is reacted with carbon monoxide in the presence of an alcohol in anhydrous conditions at a temperature between about 25.degree. C. and about 200.degree. C. An excess of several moles of anhydrous alcohol is preferred. An acid such as hydrochloric acid may also be added. As catalyst, a mixture of palladium or a palladium compound and a copper compound with at least one acid-stable ligand are present.

Abstract: 15,16-Seco-19-nor progestins are provided which display elevated progestational activity with a minimum of ancillary hormonal activity. Processes for the preparation of the novel progestins are provided as are methods of use. A preferred method of use is in the suppression of ovulation in the human female.

Abstract: A new process for preparing alkyl esters of ibuprofen is provided. A 1-halo-1-(4-isobutylphenyl)ethane is reacted with carbon monoxide in the presence of an anhydrous alcohol at a temperature between about 10.degree. C. and about 200.degree. C. An excess of several moles of alcohol is preferred. An acid such as trifluoroacetic acid is also added. As catalyst, a palladium compound and at least one acid-stable ligand over palladium are present; however, an excess of ligand over palladium is advantageous.

Abstract: A catalytic process for preparing aryl substituted aliphatic carboxylic acid esters is disclosed. A 1-aryl substituted olefinic compound is reacted with carbon monoxide in the presence of an alcohol in anhydrous conditions at a temperature between about 25.degree. C. and about 200.degree. C. An excess of several moles of anhydrous alcohol is preferred. An acid such as hydrochloric acid may also be added. As catalyst, a mixture of a palladium compound and a copper compound is used with at least one acid-stable cyclic phosphine having the formula: ##STR1## where R' is the same or different than R" and is alkyl or aryl, said aryl, either substituted or unsubstituted, and Ar' is phenyl, naphthyl, substituted phenyl or substituted naphthyl and n is an integer from 3 to 6.

Abstract: A new process for preparing aliphatic carboxylic acid esters is provided. A substituted aliphatic ether or thioether compound is reacted with carbon monoxide in the presence of an alcohol in anhydrous conditions at a temperature between about 25.degree. C. and about 200.degree. C. An excess of several moles of anhydrous alcohol is preferred. An acid such as hydrochloric acid may also be added. As catalyst, a mixture of palladium or a palladium compound and a copper compound with at least one acid-stable ligand are present.

Abstract: A new process for preparing aryl substituted aliphatic carboxylic acid esters is provided. A 1-aryl substituted olefinic compound is reacted with carbon monoxide in the presence of an alcohol in anhydrous conditions at a temperature between about 25.degree. C. and about 200.degree. C. An excess of several moles of anhydrous alcohol is preferred. An acid such as hydrochloric acid may also be added. As catalyst, a mixture of a palladium compound and a copper compound with at least one acid-stable ligand are present.

Abstract: Process for obtaining an arylacetic acid of general formula (I):Ar--CHR--COOH (I)in which R=H, C.sub.1 -C.sub.4 alk, Ar=2-thienyl, 3-thienyl, 1-naphthyl, 2-naphthyl, 1-(2-methoxy naphthyl), 3,4-methylenedioxy phenyl or phenyl of general formula (II): ##STR1## in which R.sub.1 =H, OH or C.sub.1 -C.sub.4 alkoxy, R.sub.2 =H, C.sub.1 -C.sub.4 alk, C.sub.1 -C.sub.4 alkoxy or OH, as well as their alkali metal salts, by reaction in a solvent of the corresponding arylglycolic acid of general formula (III):Ar-CR(OH)--COOH (III)or one of its alkali metal salts with a hydrogen donor agent chosen from the group constituted by: formic acid, or one of its alkali metal salts, phosphonic acid, phosphinic acid, or one of their alkali metal salts, in the presence of a hydrogen transfer catalyst, which if desired is isolated or salified, and use for the preparation of certain acids of formula (I).

Abstract: A process is disclosed that is useful for separating the enantiomers of a racemic mixture of an aliphatic carboxylic acid having the formula ##STR1## where R.sub.1 is hydrogen or alkyl, R.sub.2, R.sub.3 and R.sub.4 are independently different and are hydrogen, alkyl, cycloalkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, phenyl, substituted phenyl, naphthyl, substituted naphthyl, heteroaryl, substituted heteroaryl, haloalkyl, alkoxyalkyl, alkylthioalkyl, phenylalkyl, substituted phenylalkyl, heteroalkylalkyl, substituted heteroalkylalkyl or cycloalkylalkyl.

Abstract: A photosensitive composition containing a compound having a group represented by formula(I) or (II), said group, when irradiated with actinic radiation, forming a carboxylic acid or a sulfonic acid: ##STR1## wherein R.sub.1 represents hydrogen, an alkyl group, or an aryl group; andR.sub.2 to R.sub.6 may be the same or different and each represents hydrogen, a halogen, an alkoxyl group, an aryloxyl group, cyano group, or an alkyl group, provided that at least one of R.sub.2 to R.sub.6 represents an alkoxyl or aryloxyl group and two of R.sub.2 to R.sub.6 may link to form a ring.

Abstract: In a process for reacting a low molecular weight hydroxy compound with a carboxylic acid halide, a small amount of the acid halide is introduced into the reaction vessel and the remainder of the acid halide and the hydroxy compound are added gradually in an approximately stoichiometric ratio. The hydrogen halide formed is thus prevented from dissolving in the reaction medium. The heat of reaction to be dissipated is negligible.

Abstract: Optically active compounds having the following formulae (1), (2) or (3) ##STR1## wherein R and R' are C.sub.1-20 alkyl groups; X and Y.sub.1 are --, O, S, or divalent groups such as COO, OOC and OCOO; m is 0 or 1; n is 0 to 5; A.sub.2 is a cyclic group, such as p,p'-biphenylene, 2,6-naphthylene, 2,5-pyrimidinylene-1,4-phenylene, A.sub.1 --Y.sub.2 -pyridylene or A.sub.4 --Y.sub.2 --A.sub.5 ; Y.sub.2 is CH.sub.2 CH.sub.2 or C.tbd.C; A.sub.3 is 2,6-naphthylene, A.sub.1 --Y.sub.2 -pyridylene or A.sub.6 --CH.sub.2 CH.sub.2 --A.sub.7 ; and A.sub.1, A.sub.4, A.sub.5, A.sub.6 and A.sub.7 are cyclic groups, such as 1,4-phenylene and/or 4,4'-biphenylene.

Abstract: A process for obtaining a substantially pure enantiomer of an aryl-substituted aliphatic carboxylic acid is described. The process utilizes first an enantiomerically enriched mixture the of aryl-substituted aliphatic carboxylic acid obtained from kinetic resolution, diastereomeric crystallization or asymmetric synthesis processes. This enriched mixture is reacted with a base producing a salt that has the following properties:1) has at least one eutectic point;2) a composition that is not at the eutectic point; and3) a eutectic composition that is closer to the racemic composition than is the eutectic composition of said aryl-substituted carboxylic acid.Substantially pure, enantiomeric salt is separated, leaving a mother liquor comprising the solvent and aryl-substituted aliphatic carboxylic acid enriched in the other enantiomer.

Abstract: A process for the .alpha.-monoalkylation of arylacetonitriles, arylacetoesters and arylacetic acids with dialkyl carbonates in liquid phase, in the presence of bases at temperatures ranging from about 100.degree. C. to about 270.degree. C.

Abstract: A method for racemizing an optically active carboxylic acid, or ester thereof, of the formula: ##STR1## where R.sub.1 is hydrogen, hydroxy, halo, cyano, C.sub.1 to C.sub.6 linear or branched alkoxy, amino or substituted amino or the group ##STR2## is nitrile; R.sub.2, R.sub.3 and R.sub.4 are different and are hydrogen or C.sub.1 to C.sub.6 linear or branched alkyl, C.sub.1 to C.sub.6 linear or branched haloalkyl, aralkyl, cycloalkyl, alkyl substituted cycloalkyl, C.sub.6 to C.sub.10 aryl, C.sub.1 to C.sub.6 linear or branched alkoxy, C.sub.6 to C.sub.10 aryloxy, C.sub.1 to C.sub.6 alkylthio, C.sub.3 to C.sub.8 cycloalkylthio, C.sub.6 to C.sub.10 arylthio, C.sub.6 to C.sub.10 arylcarbonyl, C.sub.4 to C.sub.8 cycloalkenyl, trifluoromethyl, halo, C.sub.4 to C.sub.5 heteroaryl, C.sub.10 to C.sub.14 aryl, or biphenyl unsubstituted or substituted with methyl or halo, comprising heating said optically active carboxylic acid or ester thereof in the presence of water at a temperature of from about 40.degree. C.

Abstract: An optically active compound represented by the formula (I): ##STR1## wherein R is a straight or branched chain alkyl or alkoxy group having 1 to 15 carbon atoms, ##STR2## is a 1,4-cyclohexylene or 1,4-phenylene group, ##STR3## is a 1,4-phenylene or 3-fluoro-1,4-phenylene group, X is a mono-, di- or tri-fluoromethyl group, W is a straight or branched chain or cyclic alkylene group having 1 to 16 carbon atoms or a straight or branched chain alkenylene group having 2 to 16 carbon atoms, Y is a bond or --COO--, and Z is a straight or branched chain alkyl group having 1 to 8 carbon atoms, a phenyl group or a hydrogen atom, which is useful as a component of ferroelectric liquid crystal compositions or as a device utilizing said composition.

Abstract: A process for preparing purified dimethyl-2,6-naphthalenedicarboxylate by the esterification of 2,6-naphthalenedicarboxylic acid is disclosed and which process provides for the efficient removal of the mono methyl ester of 2,6-naphthalenedicarboxylic acid produced during the esterification reaction.

Abstract: A benzonaphthalene compound has the formula ##STR1## wherein R.sub.1 represents ##STR2## or (ii) --CH.sub.2 OH; R.sub.6 represents ##STR3## or OR.sub.7 wherein R.sub.7 represents hydrogen, alkyl having 1-20 carbon atoms, monohydroxyalkyl or polyhydroxyalkyl, r' or r" represent hydrogen, lower alkyl, mono or polyhydroxyalkyl, aryl or a residue of an amino acid or a sugar, or together form a heterocycle; R.sub.2 represents hydrogen, alkyl having 1-15 carbon atoms, alkoxy having 1-4 carbon atoms or a cycloaliphatic radical; R.sub.3 represents hydrogen, hydroxy, alkyl having 1-4 carbon atoms, alkoxy having 1-10 carbon atoms, a cycloaliphatic radical, a thiocycloaliphatic radical or --O--Si(CH.sub.3).sub.2 --R.sub.8 wherein R.sub.8 represents lower alkyl; and R.sub.4 and R.sub.5 represent hydrogen, lower alkyl, hydroxy or lower acyloxy.This compound is useful in the topical and systemic treatment of dermatologic diseases and in the treatment of the degeneration of conjunctive tissues.