The copper enolate derived from (η 5 -C 5 H 5 )Fe(CO)(PPh 3 )COCH 2 CH 3 reacts stereoselectively with symmetrical ketones to generate RR,SS-α-methyl-β-hydroxy acyl complexes which on decomplexation liberate the corresponding β-hydroxy acids. ... Steroids I. Alkylation of β-ketoesters via their Cu(II) enolates in aqueous media. Application of the synthesis of C-18 functionalized steroids via the torgov approach. ... Steroids I. Alkylation of β-ketoesters via their Cu(II) enolates in ...