1. Studies directed toward the synthesis of 20B-carbachaparrinone analogs via a samarium (II) iodide ring closure of a highly functionalized intermediate. 2. Synthesis of 5-oxo-cyclopent-1-enecarboxylic acid methyl esters via a novel tandem aldol-knoevena

1. A synthetic approach to analogs of the quassinoid chaparrinone possessing an all carbon E ring is described. Several noteworthy reactions are described, culminating with a samarium (II) iodide promoted Barbier coupling to form the all carbon E ring.; 2. The development of novel synthetic methodology is a prime motivating force in organic synthesis. A synthetic approach to the novel B ring functionality of the sequoiatones is described. The reaction involves a one-pot tandem Aldol-Knoevenagel condensation and is applicable to a variety of substrates.; 3. Novel applications for 5.0 M lithium perchlorate-diethyl ether continue to be discovered. A novel six-membered ring forming reaction involving the enol trapping of an allyl cation is described. Additionally, the reactivity of 3-(hepta-4,6-dienyl)-cycloalk-2-enones under a variety of conditions is described.