Each of the twehe chapters in this volume is designed to bring the named subjects up to date. In order to keep the volume to reasonable dimensions repetition of material from previous volumes is limited to the minimum consistent with clarity. This volume and a projected Volume XI1 can therefore be regarded as periodical reviews. Volumes beyond XI1 are in prospect but the date of their maturation will depend, among other factors, upon the volume of alkaloid chemistry which will make its appearance in the next few years.
Entries in the subject index are restricted to topics which are basic to the substances or groups under discussion; incidental mention does not necessarily merit inclusion. Literature references are listed in the order in which they appear, and the abbreviations used for journals are those found in Chemical Abstracts List of Periodicals.