Sterically Controlled Late-Stage C-H Alkynylation of Arenes

Phenylacetylenes are key structural motifs in organic chemistry, which find widespread applications in bioactive molecules, synthetic intermediates, functional materials, and reagents. These molecules are typically prepared from prefunctionalized starting materials, e.g. using the Sonogashira coupling, or using directing group-based C-H activation strategies. While highly efficient, these approaches remain limited by their inherent selectivities for specific regioisomers. Herein we present a complementary approach based on an arene-limited nondirected C-H activation. The reaction is predominantly controlled by steric rather than electronic factors and thereby gives access to a complementary product spectrum with respect to traditional methods. A broad scope as well as the suitability of this protocol for late-stage functionalization are demonstrated

On the Automation of Ports and Logistics Chains in the Adriatic Region

Recently, automation is gaining an even more important role in the port and maritime industry. In particular, several technological innovations are changing both the freight and passenger transport sector. The introduction of these technologies in port terminals (smart ports) require involved stakeholders to adapt their asset and organisations in order to improve the economic competi-tiveness in global markets. The geographical context where new technologies are put in place can also influence their deployment and foreseen impacts. Hence, in order to take the proper decisions at a strategic level and maximize the positive effects in a selected scenario, a feasibility analysis is essential. In the present study, this challenge is addressed for the Adriatic region by proposing a proce-dure for evaluating and selecting the most promising innovations. Several rele-vant stakeholders from the selected area are inquired to assess the relevance and deployment difficulties for a set of new technologies dealing with automation in port areas. Then, the impacts on technical operation and labour market are as-sessed, thus, providing valuable information to support the regional organisations in facing the change and deploying procedures to be potentially replicated in other geographical areas