Application of Functionalized Zn-Based Metal-Organic Frameworks (Zn-MOFs) with CuO in Heterocycle Synthesis via Azide-Alkyne Cycloaddition

The main goal of this article is to discuss the expansion of click chemistry. A new catalyst composed of CuO nanoparticles embedded in Zn-MOF with the ligand 2,4,6-tris(4-carboxyphenoxy)-1,3,5-triazine (H3L) is presented. The incorporation of CuO nanoparticles into the Zn-MOF structure led to desirable morphology and catalytic properties. The designed catalyst was evaluated for its catalytic role in the multicomponent reaction and copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) for preparation of triazole rings with 80-91% yield. The catalyst demonstrated an appealing architecture and exhibited robustness, high efficiency, and environmental friendliness. Characterization of the catalyst was performed using various techniques, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopes (TEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), elemental mapping, and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results suggest that this novel catalyst has the potential to be a valuable tool in the development of new synthetic approaches for a wide range of applications.

Nutritional status among earthquake survivors: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Earthquakes, as one of the most devastating natural disasters, have many consequences, including the collapse of buildings where food is produced, stored, and distributed, which can ensue with numerous nutritional problems. This study was to investigate the nutritional status of earthquake survivors.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a systematic review and meta-analysis study.

METHODS

The present review was conducted according to the PRISMA guideline. The data were collected by searching the data resources of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, Google Scholar, MagIran, and Scientific Information Database. Meta-analysis was conducted using the random effects model, and the I2 index was used to assess heterogeneity among studies. Publication bias was assessed using Begg's test.

RESULTS

In this study, 342 studies were identified in the primary literature search, and after removing duplicates, 14 of which were finally selected for meta-analysis. Based on the results of the meta-analysis, the overall prevalence was obtained: 4.19% for wasting, 16.78% for stunting, 12.59% for underweight, and 28.06% for anemia after the earthquake.

CONCLUSION

The results indicated that earthquake survivors are exposed to malnutrition. Therefore, it is recommended that adequate food and nutritional supplements are provided to all earthquake survivors.

Synthesis of picolinates via a cooperative vinylogous anomeric-based oxidation using UiO-66(Zr)-N(CH2PO3H2)2 as a catalyst

The anomeric effect highlights the significant influence of the functional group and reaction conditions on oxidation-reduction. This article successfully investigates the anomeric effect in the synthesis of picolinate and picolinic acid derivatives through a multi-component reaction involving 2-oxopropanoic acid or ethyl 2-oxopropanoate, ammonium acetate, malononitrile, and various aldehydes. To facilitate this process, we employed UiO-66(Zr)-N(CH₂PO₃H₂)₂ as a novel nanoporous heterogeneous catalyst. The inclusion of phosphorous acid tags on the UiO-66(Zr)-N(CH₂PO₃H₂)₂ offers the potential for synthesizing picolinates at ambient temperature.

Catalytic Application of Functionalized Bimetallic-Organic Frameworks with Phosphorous Acid Tags in the Synthesis of Pyrazolo[4,3-e]pyridines

Combining two different metals for the synthesis of a metal-organic framework (MOF) is a smart strategy for the architecture of new porous materials. Herein, a bimetal-organic framework (bimetal-MOFs) based on Fe and Co metals was synthesized. Then, phosphorous acid tags were decorated on bimetal-MOFs via a postmodification method as a new porous acidic functionalized catalyst. This catalyst was used for the synthesis of pyrazolo[4,3-e]pyridine derivatives as suitable drug candidates. The present study provides new insights into the architecture of novel porous heterogeneous catalysts based on a bimetal-organic framework (bimetal-MOFs). The type of final structures of catalyst and pyrazolo[4,3-e]pyridine derivatives were determined using different techniques such as fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX), SEM-elemental mapping, N₂ adsorption-desorption isotherm, Barrett-Joyner-Halenda (BJH), thermogravimetry/differential thermal analysis (TG/DTA), ¹H NMR, and ¹³C NMR.

Carbonaceous CoCr LDH nanocomposite as a light-responsive sonocatalyst for treatment of a plasticizer-containing water

The carbonous-based nanocomposites of CoCr layered double hydroxide (LDH) with graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) were prepared. The successful synthesis of the CoCr LDH in hydrotalcite crystalline structure was deduced from the pattern obtained from X-ray diffraction, and the chemical composition of its surface was checked by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The prosperous decorating of LDH on the sheets of rGO and GO was authenticated by the energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis and micrographs of scanning electron and transmission electron microscopy. The photo-assisted sonocatalytic activity of the prepared nanocomposites was appraised for the decomposition of dimethyl phthalate (DMP) as a plasticizer. The highest decomposition efficiency of 100% was obtained in the existence of CoCr LDH/rGO nanocomposite (0.5 g/L) during 20 min of reaction time via photo-assisted sonocatalysis. The rGO improved the catalytic activity of the CoCr LDH by increasing the specific surface area from 1.2 m²/g to 4.5 m²/g and reducing the band gap from 1.7 eV to 1.3 eV. Moreover, the results of the colony-forming unit method endorsed antibacterial property improvement of the CoCr LDH via hybridizing with rGO. The results of this research provide an optimistic perspective for applying carbonous-based nanocomposites of CoCr LDH as a novel catalyst with antibacterial properties in photo-assisted sonocatalytic processes.

Application of Zr-MOFs based copper complex in synthesis of pyrazolo[3, 4-b]pyridine-5-carbonitriles via anomeric-based oxidation

In this research article, Zr-MOFs based copper complex as a novel heterogeneous and porous catalyst was designed and prepared. The structure of catalyst has verified by various techniques such as FT-IR, XRD, SEM, N₂ adsorption-desorption isotherms (BET), EDS, SEM-elemental mapping, TG and DTG analysis. UiO-66-NH₂/TCT/2-amino-Py@Cu(OAc)₂ was used as an efficient catalyst in the synthesis of pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine-5-carbonitrile derivatives. The aromatization of titled molecules is performed via a cooperative vinylogous anomeric-based oxidation both under air and inert atmospheres. The unique properties of the presented method are short reaction time, high yield, reusability of catalyst, synthesis of desired product under mild and green condition.

Application of Metal-Organic Frameworks with Sulfonic Acid Tags in the Synthesis of Pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridines via a Cooperative Vinylogous Anomeric-Based Oxidation

Herein, we report the design and synthesis of Co-MOF-71/imidazole/SO₃H as a novel porous catalyst with sulfonic acid tags. The structure and morphology of the catalyst were investigated using various techniques such as Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), SEM elemental mapping, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Barret-Joyner-Halenda, and N₂ adsorption-desorption isotherms. Co-MOF-71/imidazole/SO₃H was studied in the preparation of novel pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridines under mild and green conditions via a cooperative vinylogous anomeric-based oxidation. A wide range of mono and bis pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridines were synthesized with good to excellent yields (65-82%). A hot filtration test for the heterogeneous nature of the catalyst indicated the high stability of the prepared catalyst. The recyclability of Co-MOF-71/imidazole/SO₃H is another advantage of the present methodology. The structures of the final products were confirmed using FT-IR, ¹H-NMR, and ¹³C-NMR spectroscopic techniques.

Application of Nanomagnetic Metal-Organic Frameworks in the Green Synthesis of Nicotinonitriles via Cooperative Vinylogous Anomeric-Based Oxidation

In the current study, we synthesized a new nanomagnetic metal-organic framework Fe₃O₄@MIL-53(Al)-N(CH₂PO₃)₂ and characterized it using various techniques. This nanomagnetic metal-organic framework was used for the synthesis of a wide range of nicotinonitrile derivatives as suitable drug candidates by a four-component reaction of 3-oxo-3-phenylpropanenitrile or 3-(4-chlorophenyl)-3-oxopropanenitrile, ammonium acetate (NH₄OAc), acetophenone derivatives, and various aldehydes including those bearing electron-donating, electron-withdrawing, and halogen groups, which afforded desired products (27 samples) via a cooperative vinylogous anomeric-based oxidation (CVABO) mechanism under solvent-free conditions in excellent yields (68-90%) and short reaction times (40-60 min). Increasing the surface-to-volume ratio, easy separation of the catalyst using an external magnet, and high chemical and temperature stability are the advantages of the described nanomagnetic metal-organic frameworks.

A convenient catalytic method for preparation of new tetrahydropyrido[2,3-d]pyrimidines via a cooperative vinylogous anomeric based oxidation

In this study, a novel functionalized metal-organic frameworks MIL-125(Ti)-N(CH₂PO₃H₂)₂ was designed and synthesized via post-modification methodology. Then, MIL-125(Ti)-N(CH₂PO₃H₂)₂ as a mesoporous catalyst was applied for the synthesis of a wide range of novel tetrahydropyrido[2,3-d]pyrimidines as bioactive candidate compounds by one-pot condensation reaction of 3-(1-methyl-1H-pyrrol-2-yl)-3-oxopropanenitrile, 6-amino-1,3-dimethylpyrimidine-2,4(1H,3H)-dione and aromatic aldehydes at 100 °C under solvent-free condition. Interestingly, the preparation of tetrahydropyrido[2,3-d]pyrimidine was achieved via vinylogous anomeric based oxidation mechanism with a high yield and short reaction time.

One-pot synthesis of graphene hydrogel/M (M: Cu, Co, Ni) nanocomposites as cathodes for electrochemical removal of rifampicin from polluted water

Nowadays, the removal of pharmaceutical contaminants from water resources and wastewater is of great importance due to environmental and health issues. Over the decades, various methods have been reported to remove pollutants from wastewater. Among the developed methods, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) have received significant attention from researchers. In this study, we report the one-pot synthesis of graphene hydrogel-metal (GH-M, M: Co, Ni, Cu) nanocomposites via the combination of polyol and hydrothermal methods. The structure of the resulting nanocomposites was examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), inductively coupled plasma-mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and Raman spectroscopy methods. Afterward, as-prepared GH-Cu, GH-Co, and GH-Ni nanocomposites were used to prepare cathodes for the electro-Fenton (EF) process to remove rifampicin (RIF) from polluted water. The effect of operational parameters, including current density (mA/cm²), initial pH, initial RIF concentration (mg/L), and process time (min) was investigated via response surface methodology (RSM). The optimal values for current density, pH, initial RIF concentration, and process time using GH-Ni as cathode were 30 mA/cm², 5, 30 mg/L, and 90 min, respectively. The results at optimal values showed that the maximum RIF removal efficiency for GH-Cu, GH-Co, and GH-Ni cathodes was 90.47, 92.60, and 93.69%, respectively. Brunauer Emmett Teller (BET), atomic force microscopy (AFM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX), and cyclic voltammetry (CV) analyses were performed to investigate the performance of the cathodes for the RIF removal. Finally, total organic carbon (TOC), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) analyses were performed for further investigation of the RIF removal from polluted water. The results claimed that one-pot synthesized GH-M cathodes can effectively remove RIF from polluted water through EF process.

Efficient electrochemical removal of 5-fluorouracil pharmaceutical from wastewater by mixed metal oxides via anodic oxidation process

Nowadays, the entry of organic compounds into water resources is one of the leading global concerns due to the lack of water resources and rapid population growth. In this research, anodic oxidation (AO) method was used to remove 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) from aqueous solutions via Ni/RuO₂ and Ti/IrO₂-TiO₂-RuO₂ electrodes as cathode and anode, respectively. For this purpose, the characterization analysis of the electrodes, including X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray, and atomic force microscopy were performed. The electrochemical performance of the anode was investigated via cyclic voltammetry analysis. Then, the effect of operational variables, including applied current (mA), initial pH of the solution, initial 5-FU concentration (mg/L), and process time (min) on the 5-FU removal efficiency under the AO process was evaluated via artificial neural network (ANN) modeling. The results revealed that the maximum 5-FU removal efficiency was 96.96%. The applied current intensity, pH, initial 5-FU concentration, and process time were 300 mA, 5, 20 mg/L, and 140 min, respectively. Moreover, the investigation of 5-FU removal by-products and mineralization efficiency of the AO process was carried out via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and total organic carbon analysis, respectively. The total organic carbon mineralization efficiency was 84.80% after 6 h of reaction time. The reusability and stability of the Ti/IrO₂-TiO₂-RuO₂ anode on 5-FU removal efficiency were measured and showed an approximately 5% decay in 5-FU removal efficiency after eight consecutive runs. The overall results and analysis confirmed this method is capable of removing 5-FU through Ti/IrO₂-TiO₂-RuO₂ anode and Ni/RuO₂ cathode from aqueous medium.

Electrochemical removal of fluoxetine via three mixed metal oxide anodes and carbonaceous cathodes from contaminated water

In this work, the fluoxetine (FLX) removal has been studied via the anodic oxidation (AO) process. Anode electrodes were Ti/RuO₂, Ti/RuO₂-IrO₂, and Ti/RuO₂-IrO₂-SnO₂, and cathode electrodes were graphite and carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The performances of electrodes were compared in terms of FLX removal efficiency. As a result, Ti/RuO₂-IrO₂-SnO₂ and CNTs were the optimal anode and cathode, respectively. The properties of the optimal electrodes were investigated using scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy and X-ray diffraction spectroscopy. Cyclic voltammetry analysis was performed to study the electrochemical behavior of electrodes. The effect of current intensity (mA), initial pH, initial FLX concentration (mg/L) and process time (min) on the FLX removal efficiency was investigated and the response surface methodology was applied for the optimization of the AO process. The results showed that at current intensity, pH, initial FLX concentration and process time of 500 mA, 6, 25 mg/L and 160 min, maximum FLX removal efficiency was observed, which was 96.25%. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), and total organic carbon (TOC) analysis was determined to evaluate the intermediates, and mineralization efficiency. The TOC removal efficiency was reached 81.51% after 6 h under optimal experimental conditions, indicating the successful removal of the FLX.

Application of novel metal-organic framework [Zr-UiO-66-PDC-SO3H]FeCl4 in the synthesis of dihydrobenzo[g]pyrimido[4,5-b]quinoline derivatives

In the current paper, we produce a new metal-organic framework (MOF) based on Zr metal, [Zr-UiO-66-PDC-SO₃H]FeCl₄, via an anion exchange method, which is fully characterized by FT-IR, SEM with elemental mapping and EDX, FE-SEM and TEM. Furthermore, the use of [Zr-UiO-66-PDC-SO₃H]FeCl₄ as a porous catalyst was examined for the one-pot synthesis of novel dihydrobenzo[g]pyrimido[4,5-b]quinoline derivatives by reaction of 6-amino-1,3-dimethylpyrimidine-2,4(1H,3H)-dione, 2-hydroxynaphthalene-1,4-dione and various aldehydes at 100 °C with good to excellent yields.

An effective natural mineral-catalyzed heterogeneous electro-Fenton method for degradation of an antineoplastic drug: Modeling by a neural network

In this study, the heterogeneous electro-Fenton method was used to remove Paclitaxel as an antineoplastic medicine. The cathode based on three-dimensional graphene (3DG) was applied as a gas diffusion electrode. The potential of five eco-friendly and recyclable iron minerals derived from nature (Magnetite, Siderite, Hematite, Limonite, and Pyrite) was investigated. Among the applied iron minerals, Pyrite showed the best, and Magnetite and Siderite showed good catalytic activity at pH 3.0. The current intensity of 300 mA, pH_i 7.0, Paclitaxel concentration of 3 mg L^-1, amount of Pyrite 4.5 g L^-1, and time of 120 min was the optimum condition of the process with the removal efficiency of 99.13% in the presence of Pyrite. Repeating the experiments eight times revealed the reusability of the prepared 3DG as a cathode. Also, using radical scavengers indicated the principal role of the hydroxyl radicals (OH) in the treatment process. Analysis of total organic carbon reached 77.64% mineralization of 3 mg L^-1 Paclitaxel at 360 min. Finally, ten by-products of small molecules were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry device.

Applications of novel composite UiO-66-NH2/Melamine with phosphorous acid tags as a porous and efficient catalyst for the preparation of novel spiro-oxindoles

A new approach for the incorporation of phosphorous acid tags into a metal organic framework based on UiO-66-NH2/Melamine was introduced. This new catalyst was applied to the preparation of novel spiro-oxindoles under mild and green conditions.

MOF-Zn-NHC as an efficient N-heterocyclic carbene catalyst for aerobic oxidation of aldehydes to their corresponding carboxylic acids via a cooperative geminal anomeric based oxidation

As an efficient heterogenous N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) catalyst, MOF-Zn-NHC was used in the aerobic oxidation of aryl aldehydes to their corresponding carbocyclic acids via an anomeric based oxidation. Features such as mild reaction conditions and no need for a co-catalyst or oxidative reagent can be considered as the major advantages of the presented method in this study.

As an efficient heterogenous N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) catalyst, MOF-Zn-NHC was used in the aerobic oxidation of aryl aldehydes to their corresponding carbocyclic acids via an anomeric based oxidation.

Synergy of production of value-added bioplastic, astaxanthin and phycobilin co-products and Direct Green 6 textile dye remediation in Spirulina platensis

Phyco-remediation of dyestuffs in textile wastewaters is of economic, industrial, and environmental importance. We evaluated the remediation of the textile dye, Direct Green 6 (DG6), by Spirulina platensis, and investigated the novel possibility that DG6 treatment enhances production of the biopolymer, polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB). We showed that both live and dead cells of Spirulina were capable of DG6 remediation, but live cells could be re-used with no loss of remediation efficiency. Furthermore, DG6 remediation by live cells resulted in increased algal biomass and trichome lengths, and stimulated production of valuable metabolites, including PHB, antioxidants, carbohydrates and pigments (phycobilins and astaxanthin). We determined the optimal conditions for DG6 remediation and an artificial neural network (ANN) accurately modeled the experimental data and predicted the concentration of dye as the most and algal turbidity as the least important parameters for DG6 removal efficiency. A DG6 concentration of 60 mg L^-1 resulted in the highest simultaneous co-production of PHB (12.7 ± 1.7% DW) and increase of astaxanthin (194%), carotenoids (50%), phenol (51%), carbohydrates (27%) total phycobilin (43%), together with the enhancement of biomass and trichome lengths (95%). Oxidative stress indices and enzyme activities such as peroxidases and laccase (involved in dye removal/antioxidant functions) were also increased by dye dosage. On the basis of our results, we propose that S. platensis may use DG6 dye as a nitrogen/carbon source for co-accumulation of valuable bioplastic and metabolites.

Anodic electrosynthesis of MIL-53(Al)-N(CH2PO3H2)2 as a mesoporous catalyst for synthesis of novel (N-methyl-pyrrol)-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridines via a cooperative vinylogous anomeric based oxidation

In this paper, the MIL-53(Al)-NH2 metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) was prepared based on the anodic electrosynthesis under green conditions. The anodic electrosynthesis as an environmentally friendly procedure was performed in the aqueous solution, room temperature, atmospheric pressure, and in the short reaction time (30 min). Also, the employed procedure was accomplished without the need for the ex-situ salt and base/probase additives as cation source and ligand activating agent at the constant current mode (10.0 mA cm-2). The electrosynthesized MOFs was functionalized with phosphorus acid tags as a novel mesoporous catalyst. This mesoporous catalyst was successfully employed for synthesis of new series (N-methyl-pyrrol)-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridines by one-pot condensation reaction of 3-methyl-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-5-amine, 3-(1-methyl-1H-pyrrol-2-yl)-3-oxopropanenitrile and various aromatic aldehydes (mono, bis and tripodal). This catalyst proceeded the organic synthetic reaction via a cooperative vinylogous anomeric based oxidation mechanism with a marginal decreasing its catalytic activity after recycling and reusability.

Synthesis and application of [Zr-UiO-66-PDC-SO3H]Cl MOFs to the preparation of dicyanomethylene pyridines via chemical and electrochemical methods

A metal-organic framework (MOF) with sulfonic acid tags as a novel mesoporous catalyst was synthesized. The precursor of Zr-UiO-66-PDC was synthesized both via chemical and electrochemical methods. Then, zirconium-based mesoporous metal-organic framework [Zr-UiO-66-PDC-SO3H]Cl was prepared by reaction of Zr-UiO-66-PDC and SO3HCl. The structure of [Zr-UiO-66-PDC-SO3H]Cl was confirmed by FT-IR, PXRD, FE-SEM, TEM, BET, EDX, and Mapping analysis. This mesoporous [Zr-UiO-66-PDC-SO3H]Cl was successfully applied for the synthesis of dicyanomethylene pyridine derivatives via condensation of various aldehyde, 2-aminoprop-1-ene-1,1,3-tricarbonitrile and malononitrile. At the electrochemical section, a green electrochemical method has successfully employed for rapid synthesis of the zirconium-based mesoporous metal-organic framework UiO-66-PDC at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. The synthesized UiO-66-PDC has a uniform cauliflower-like structure with a 13.5 nm mean pore diameter and 1081.6 m2 g-1 surface area. The described catalyst [Zr-UiO-66-PDC-SO3H]Cl was also employed for the convergent paired electrochemical synthesis of dihydropyridine derivatives as an environmentally friendly technique under constant current at 1.0 mA cm-2 in an undivided cell. The proposed method proceeds with moderate to good yields for the model via a cooperative vinylogous anomeric based oxidation.

Novel nano-architectured carbon quantum dots (CQDs) with phosphorous acid tags as an efficient catalyst for the synthesis of multisubstituted 4H-pyran with indole moieties under mild conditions

In this work, a new nano-structured catalyst with phosphorus acid moieties, synthesized by the reaction of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) and phosphorus acid under refluxing EtOH. The structure and morphology of CQDs–N(CH₂PO₃H₂)₂ were fully characterized using various techniques such as Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric (TG) analysis, fluorescence and X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements. The new CQDs–N(CH₂PO₃H₂)₂ catalyst was successfully used for the synthesis of 2-amino-6-(2-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-4-phenyl-4H-pyran-3,5-dicarbonitriles by the one-pot reaction of various aromatic aldehydes, 3-(1H-indol-3-yl)-3-oxopropanenitrile derivatives and malononitrile in refluxing EtOH and/or ultrasonic irradiation conditions.

A new nano-structured catalyst with phosphorus acid moieties, synthesized by the reaction of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) and phosphorus acid under refluxing EtOH.

Preparation of Fe@Fe2O3/3D graphene composite cathode for electrochemical removal of sulfasalazine

In the present study, heterogeneous electro-Fenton (EF) process was applied to remove the sulfasalazine (SU) pharmaceutical from aqueous solutions. In the first part, 3D graphene loaded with Fe@Fe₂O₃ core-shell nanowires (Fe@Fe₂O₃/3D-GO) was used as a cathode electrode in the EF process. Graphene oxide (GO) was synthesized for the synthesis of 3D graphene nanocomposites using the improved Hummers' method and subsequently 3D graphene synthesized by the hydrothermal method using glycine. Finally, Fe@Fe₂O₃/3D-GO composite was synthesized and its properties were assessed by Scanning electron microscopy, Atomic force microscopy, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction methods. Then, the cathode electrode was prepared using the resulting composite and its performance was evaluated using Cyclic Voltammetry analysis. In the final part of this work, the Fe@Fe₂O₃/3D-GO electrode was used as the cathode electrode in the heterogeneous EF process to remove SU from aqueous solutions. The effect of operating parameters such as applied current (mA), initial pH of solution, initial pharmaceutical concentration (mg L^-1) and process time (min) on pharmaceutical removal efficiency under heterogeneous EF process was investigated by response surface methodology. The results showed that the optimum values for applied current, pH, initial pharmaceutical concentration and electrolysis time were respectively 300 mA, 7, 30 mg L^-1 and 100 min, resulting 99.60% of SU removal. Finally, the intermediates of SU degradation were determined by Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis and the amount of mineralization was determined by total organic carbon analysis. About 5.2% drop in the SU removal efficiency was observed within 8 operational runs.

Application of novel nanomagnetic metal-organic frameworks as a catalyst for the synthesis of new pyridines and 1,4-dihydropyridines via a cooperative vinylogous anomeric based oxidation

Herein, a new magnetic metal-organic frameworks based on Fe3O4 (NMMOFs) with porous and high surface area materials were synthesized. Then, NMMOFs were characterized by FT-IR, XRD, SEM, elemental mapping, energy dispersive X-ray (EDS), TG, DTG, VSM, and N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms (BET). Fe3O4@Co(BDC)-NH2 as a magnetic porous catalyst was applied for synthesis of novel fused pyridines and 1,4-dihydropyridines with pyrazole and pyrimidine moieties as suitable drug candidates under ultrasonic irradiation. The significant advantages of the presented methodology are mild, facile workup, high yields, short reaction times, high thermal stability, and reusability of the described NMMOFs catalyst.

Application of [PVI-SO3H]NO3 as a novel polymeric nitrating agent with ionic tags in preparation of high-energetic materials

In this paper, poly(vinyl imidazole) sulfonic acid nitrate [PVI-SO3H]NO3 was synthesized and fully characterized. Then, [PVI-SO3H]NO3 was applied for the preparation of energetic materials such as 1,1-diamino-2,2-dinitroethene (FOX-7), pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN), 1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazinane (RDX) and trinitrotoluene (TNT). The major advantages of the presented methodology are mild, facile workup, high yields and short reaction times. [PVI-SO3H]NO3 is a suitable nitrating agent for in situ generation of NO2 and without using any co-catalysts of the described nitrating reagent.

The Relationship Between Vitamin D and Telomere/Telomerase: A Comprehensive Review

Telomeres are repetitive nucleotide sequences that together with the associated sheltrin complex protect the ends of chromosomes and maintain genomic stability. Evidences from various organisms suggests that several factors influence telomere length regulation, such as telomere binding proteins, telomere capping proteins, telomerase, and DNA replication enzymes. Recent studies suggest that micronutrients, such as vitamin D, folate and vitamin B12, are involved in telomere biology and cellular aging. In particular, vitamin D is important for a range of vital cellular processes including cellular differentiation, proliferation and apoptosis. As a result of the multiple functions of vitamin D it has been speculated that vitamin D might play a role in telomere biology and genomic stability. In this study, our main goal is investigating the relationship between telomerase enzyme and vitamin D. Findings of this study suggest that higher vitamin D concentrations, which are easily modifiable through nutritional supplementation, are associated with longer LTL, which underscores the potentially beneficial effects of this hormone on aging and age-related diseases. Vitamin D may reduce telomere shortening through anti-inflammatory and anti-cell proliferation mechanisms. Significant Low levels of telomerase activity create short telomeres, which in turn signal exit from the cell cycle resulting in cell senescence and apoptosis. In follow-up examination, the patients who remained vitamin D deficient tended to have shorter telomeres than those patients whose 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were depleted. Increasing 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels in patients with SLE may be beneficial in maintaining telomere length and preventing cellular aging. Moreover, anti-telomere antibody levels may be a promising biomarker of SLE status and disease activity.

Synthesis of biological based hennotannic acid-based salts over porous bismuth coordination polymer with phosphorous acid tags

In this paper, a novel porous polymer capable of coordinating to bismuth (PCPs-Bi) was synthesized. The Bi-PCPs was then reacted with phosphorous acid to produce a novel polymer PCPs(Bi)N(CH2PO3H2)2 which is shown to act as an efficient and recyclable catalyst. The mentioned catalyst was applied for the efficient synthesis of new mono and bis naphthoquinone-based salts of piperidine and/or piperazine via the reaction of hennotannic acid with various aldehydes, piperidine and/or piperazine, respectively. The structure of the resulting mono and bis substituted piperazine or piperidine-based naphthoquinone salts was thoroughly characterized spectroscopically. The electrochemical behavior of the products was also investigated. The presented protocol has the advantages of excellent yields (82-95%), short reaction times (4-30 min) and simple work-up.

Correction: Application of [PVI-SO3H]NO3 as a novel polymeric nitrating agent with ionic tags in preparation of high-energetic materials

Correction for ‘Application of [PVI-SO₃H]NO₃ as a novel polymeric nitrating agent with ionic tags in preparation of high-energetic materials’ by Hassan Sepehrmansourie et al., RSC Adv., 2021, 11, 8367–8374, DOI: 10.1039/D1RA00651G.

Imidazole and carbazole derivatives as potential anticancer agents: molecular docking studies and cytotoxic activity evaluation

Carbazoles and imidazole represent two important classes of heterocycles which exhibit diverse biological activities such as antitumor properties. In this study, imidazole (C1-C3) and carbazole (C4 and C5) derivatives were evaluated for their cytotoxic activity against three human cancer cell lines namely, MCF7 (human breast cancer), HT29 (human colon cancer), and HeLa (human cervical cancer). Carbazole derivatives (C4 and C5) with IC50 < 10 µM showed greater cytotoxic effect than imidazole derivatives (C1-C3). Furthermore, all compounds exhibited better anticancer activity against MCF-7 than other two cell lines (HT-29, HeLa) and compound C4 was the most potent compound with the IC50 values of 2.5, 5.4 and 4.0 µM, against MCF-7, Hela and HT-29 cell lines, respectively. Physicochemical properties of compounds were calculated and their correlation with the IC50 values on MCF-7 cell line investigated. Surface area and polarizability of compounds showed good correlation by R2 = 0.8396 and R2 = 0.834, respectively. Docking studies of these compounds were also performed on the DNA as proposed target to comprehend their binding interactions and binding energies. The docking energy of compounds ranged from - 11.32 to -13.48 kcal/mol. Compound C3 with energy of -13.48 kcal/mol had the highest docking energy. Docking results indicated that these compounds (C1-C5) had strong affinity in binding to the DNA.                     KEY WORDS: Imidazole, Carbazole, Molecular docking, Cancer, MTT assay   Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2020, 34(2), 377-384 DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v34i2.14

Eu-doped ZnO nanoparticles: Sonochemical synthesis, characterization, and sonocatalytic application

Undoped and europium (III)-doped ZnO nanoparticles were prepared by a sonochemical method. The prepared samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis. The crystalline sizes of undoped and 3% Eu-doped ZnO were found to be 16.04 and 8.22nm, respectively. The particle size of Eu-doped ZnO nanoparticles was much smaller than that of pure ZnO. The synthesized nanocatalysts were used for the sonocatalytic degradation of Acid Red 17. Among the Eu-doped ZnO catalysts, 3% Eu-doped ZnO nanoparticles showed the highest sonocatalytic activity. The effects of various parameters such as catalyst loading, initial dye concentration, pH, ultrasonic power, the effect of oxidizing agents, and the presence of anions were investigated. The produced intermediates of the sonocatalytic process were monitored by GC-Mass (GC-MS) spectrometry.

Synthesis of Metal-Organic Frameworks MIL-101(Cr)-NH2 Containing Phosphorous Acid Functional Groups: Application for the Synthesis of N-Amino-2-pyridone and Pyrano [2,3-c]pyrazole Derivatives via a Cooperative Vinylogous Anomeric-Based Oxidation

In the current paper, we successfully developed and used metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) based on MIL-101(Cr)-NH2 with phosphorus acid functional groups MIL-101(Cr)-N(CH2PO3H2)2. The synthesized metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as a multi-functional heterogeneous and nanoporous catalyst were used for the synthesis of N-amino-2-pyridone and pyrano [2,3-c]pyrazole derivatives via reaction of ethyl cyanoacetate or ethyl acetoacetate, hydrazine hydrate, malononitrile, and various aldehydes. The final step of the reaction mechanism was preceded by a cooperative vinylogous anomeric-based oxidation. Recycle and reusability of the described catalyst MIL-101(Cr)-N(CH2PO3H2)2 were also investigated.