Since semiconductor-based photocatalysis uses solar energy as a free and sustainable energy source and inoffensive photocatalysts, it has been found to be a promising green approach to eliminating dyes, antibiotics, and other pharmaceuticals from water that has been contaminated. In this study, a distinctive magnetic separable Fe₃O₄-ZnO:V photocatalyst is reported. ZnO:V semiconductors have been produced by seed-assisted growth over preformed magnetite to develop Fe₃O₄-ZnO:V nanocomposites. The results indicated nanocomposites with the structure of Fe₃O₄, ZnO:V, according to the findings of the XRD, XPS, and HRTEM investigations. Additionally, magnetic studies revealed at room temperature, the nanocomposite exhibited superparamagnetic properties. Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) was employed to characterize the ability of the Fe₃O₄-ZnO:V nanocomposites to transfer electrons. Furthermore, the impact of dopant on optical characteristics was evaluated. When exposed to rhodamine B (RhB), all the samples exhibited photocatalytic activity. Through the use of an ESR experiment and the spin-trapping technique, the existence of reactive oxygen species (ROS) at the solid–liquid interface was demonstrated, and their impact on the samples’ photocatalytic activity was highlighted. After recycling, XRD, XPS, and SEM were performed to illustrate the stability of the material. The impact of V doping on the morphologic, structural, and compositional properties of magnetically separable Fe₃O₄-ZnO:V composite nanoparticles for photocatalytic applications is the innovative aspect of our work.

Since ancient times, many plants have been cultivated for their nutritional and medicinal properties. The genus Sanguisorba has been used for medicinal purposes for more than 2000 years. These species are distributed in temperate, arctic, or alpine areas in the Northern Hemisphere. Elongated, imparipinnate leaves and densely clustered flower heads are characteristics of the genus Sanguisorba. While Sanguisorba officinalis L. is mainly known for its significant medicinal applications, Sanguisorba minor Scop. is beginning to attract greater interest for its chemical composition and biological effects. Our research collected extensive information on Sanguisorba minor, including its history, taxonomy, habitat, and distribution, as well as its bioactive components and biological activities. In addition to electron microscopy of plant parts (root, stems, and leaves), which is described for the first time in the literature in the case of S. minor, the study also provides information on potential pests or beneficial insects that may be present. Our goal was to provide important information that will serve as a solid foundation for upcoming research on Sanguisorba minor Scop.

Increased evidence has documented a direct association between Ciprofloxacin (CFX) intake and significant disruption to the normal functions of connective tissues, leading to severe health conditions (such as tendonitis, tendon rupture and retinal detachment). Additionally, CFX is recognized as a potential emerging pollutant, as it seems to impact both animal and human food chains, resulting in severe health implications. Consequently, there is a compelling need for the precise, swift and selective detection of this fluoroquinolone-class antibiotic. Herein, we present a novel graphene-based electrochemical sensor designed for Ciprofloxacin (CFX) detection and discuss its practical utility. The graphene material was synthesized using a relatively straightforward and cost-effective approach involving the electrochemical exfoliation of graphite, through a pulsing current, in 0.05 M sodium sulphate (Na₂SO₄), 0.05 M boric acid (H₃BO₃) and 0.05 M sodium chloride (NaCl) solution. The resulting material underwent systematic characterization using scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray analysis, X-ray powder diffraction and Raman spectroscopy. Subsequently, it was employed in the fabrication of modified glassy carbon surfaces (EGr/GC). Linear Sweep Voltammetry studies revealed that CFX experiences an irreversible oxidation process on the sensor surface at approximately 1.05 V. Under optimal conditions, the limit of quantification was found to be 0.33 × 10⁻⁸ M, with a corresponding limit of detection of 0.1 × 10⁻⁸ M. Additionally, the developed sensor’s practical suitability was assessed using commercially available pharmaceutical products.