Conversion of nitro groups to the corresponding carbonyl can be achieved under Nef reaction conditions known in the art. For example, the preparation of aromatic ketones by an oxidative Nef reaction has been previously reported. Such aromatic ketones are shown to be useful as synthetic intermediates in the preparation of chemical pharmaceuticals. (Reid et al., Tetrahedron Lett. 31:1093 (1990)). Classic Nef reactions are performed by adding a solution of a nitronate anion to a strongly acidic aqueous solution. However, these conditions achieve only minimal conversion of the nitro group of a nitronate anion substituted on an aromatic ring to the corresponding ketone. Conversion to the desired ketone can be achieved under oxidative Nef reaction conditions. However, a large excess of hydrogen peroxide, which is economically unattractive and potentially hazardous, is necessary. (Olah et al., Synthesis 662 (1980)).