R=-(CH2) 5CN a, X= H, Y= OH b, X= OH; Y= H CHO). The corresponding acetals 8 (Y= CH (OEt) 2) are analogously prepared (p-TsOH, EtOH, 5 min, 0'). We have examined the reaction of 2 with epoxides. In THF at-70, the anion 2a reacts smoothly with ethylene oxide to yield 6 (R= Ph R'= H) in good yield. Under similar conditions, the alkylation of 2a with propylene oxide is sluggish. The alkylation, however, proceeds well in the presence of ...
