Usefulness of the σ-Aromaticity and σ-Antiaromaticity Concepts for Clusters and Solid-State Compounds.

In this Review we present examples of clusters, molecules, and solid-state compounds, for which the use of σ-aromaticity and σ-antiaromaticity concepts is essential for understanding of chemical bonding. We show that the bonding patterns in these σ-aromatic and σ-antiaromatic compounds are similar to those of the corresponding π-aromatic and π-antiaromatic chemical systems, respectively. Undoubtedly, σ-aromaticity helps us understand why the high symmetry isomers are the most stable among myriads of other potential structures.

Heterocyclization of enediynes promoted by sodium azide: a case of ambiguity of X-ray data and structure revision.

It has been shown that contrary to the literature data the tandem cyclization of (Z)-1-aryl-3-hexen-1,5-diynes promoted by sodium azide results in the formation of the corresponding [1,2,3]triazolo[1,5-a]pyridines, not 1H-benzotriazole derivatives. Apparently, incorrect structure elucidation made by previous investigators originates from misinterpretation of X-ray data. A number of new transformations of this type as well as X-ray and NMR experiments are discussed.

The stepwise Diels-Alder reaction of 4-nitrobenzodifuroxan with Danishefsky's diene.

The Diels-Alder reaction of 4-nitrobenzodifuroxan (NBDF) with 1-methoxy-3-trimethylsilyloxy-1,3-butadiene has been investigated experimentally and theoretically. Treatment of NBDF with excess diene in chloroform at room temperature was found to afford a single product that contained a carbonyl functionality. Based on an X-ray structure and NMR spectroscopic data, the product appeared to be a result of the hydrolysis of the OSiMe(3) moiety of the thermodynamically more stable endo [2+4] cycloadduct, characterized by a cis arrangement of the MeO and NO(2) functionalities.