11, X= NNTs anhydride in CHzClz in the presence of A1Cl3, followed by modified reaction workup, gave the known acid 7, 13 which upon Wolff-Kishner reduction was smoothly converted to 8 in 92% yield. In this case, Wolff-Kishner reduction was cleaner and provided higher yields than the reported Clemmenson red~ ction.'~ Cyclization of 8 to 9, 13 followed by Cr03/AcOH oxidation to trione 10, was accomplished as reported.', Tosylhydrazone 11 ...