Abstract: Preparation of 2-aryl-hydroquinones of formula (I) by oxidizing by an electrochemical route a compound of formula (II): ##STR1## wherein A represents an aryl group optionally substituted with groups compatible with the reaction conditions in an acidic aqueous reaction medium, at temperatures within the range of from 10.degree. to 100.degree. C., and with anodes of graphite or PbO.sub.2. The products are used in photography and in the field of liquid-crystal polymers.

Abstract: There is disclosed a process for the preparation of 2-methyl-5-pyrazinoic acid consisting of electrochemically oxidizing a compound having formula: ##STR1## wherein X is --OH, Cl, Br, --O--CO--R, --O--SO.sub.2 --R, in which R is a C.sub.1 -C.sub.5 alkyl radical, optionally substituted with F or Cl, or it is a C.sub.6 -C.sub.12 aryl radical, in an aqueous alkaline medium, at a temperature ranging from 20.degree. C. to 90.degree. C., using anodes coated with nickel oxide-hydroxide.

Abstract: Process for preparing compounds according to formula (I) ##STR1## wherein R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 represent a hydrogen atom or a protective group and R.sub.3 represents a C.sub.1 -C.sub.10 alkyl or an aryl group, by oxidation of compounds according to formula (II) ##STR2## wherein R.sub.1, R.sub.2 and R.sub.3 have the above-mentioned meanings, in a two-phase system comprising:a) an organic phase including a 4-acylazetidinone compound (II) and an "onium" salt dissolved in a medium immiscible with water,b) an aqueous solution including an alkali or alkaline-earth metal salt of an organic or inorganic peracid.4-Acyloxyazetidinones (I) are useful intermediates in the synthesis of anti-bacterial compounds.

Abstract: A process for the manufacture of o-nitrobenzaldehyde by oxidation of o-nitrotoluene, characterized in that o-nitrotoluene is made to react with an aqueous solution containing Cerium.sup.iv perchlorate and from 5 to 9 moles/liter of perchloric acid; according to a preferred embodiment, the dispersion of o-nitrotoluene in an aqueous solution containing from 5 to 9 moles per liter of perchloric acid is first prepared and then an aqueous solution is gradually added, containing Cerium.sup.iv perchlorate and 5-9 moles/liter of perchloric acid.