A series of solvents and temperatures were then explored (Table ). Polar solvents gave slightly higher yields (i.e. comparing entries 2 and 3 with entries 4-6). Solubility was an issue when the reaction was conducted in water in an effort to optimize green-ness and scalability (entry 7), however, to our satisfaction, the reaction could be done in the presence of water despite the potential for reversing imine formation and inhibiting product formation (entry 8). Lastly, it was discovered the reaction was highly productive within 2 hours at elevated temperatures (entry 9). A good yield can also be obtained within 20 minutes at 40 °C (entry 10). Increasing the temperature to 70 °C (entry 11) results in a further acceleration of the reaction, but may be incompatible with temperature-sensitive substrates. Based on the considered variables (yield, efficiency, green-ness), entry 9 was chosen as our optimized conditions for the substrate scope.