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Highlights The advantages of biomass materials for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding are analyzed, the mechanism of EMI shielding is summarized, and the factors affecting EMI shielding are analyzed systematically. Various biomass materials (wood, bamboo, lignin, cellulose) were modified to obtain unique structures and improve EMI shielding performance. The problems encountered in the application of biomass materials for EMI shielding are summarized, and the potential development and application in the future are prospected. Research efforts on electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials have begun to converge on green and sustainable biomass materials. These materials offer numerous advantages such as being lightweight, porous, and hierarchical. Due to their porous nature, interfacial compatibility, and electrical conductivity, biomass materials hold significant potential as EMI shielding materials. Despite concerted efforts on the EMI shielding of biomass materials have been reported, this research area is still relatively new compared to traditional EMI shielding materials. In particular, a more comprehensive study and summary of the factors influencing biomass EMI shielding materials including the pore structure adjustment, preparation process, and micro-control would be valuable. The preparation methods and characteristics of wood, bamboo, cellulose and lignin in EMI shielding field are critically discussed in this paper, and similar biomass EMI materials are summarized and analyzed. The composite methods and fillers of various biomass materials were reviewed. this paper also highlights the mechanism of EMI shielding as well as existing prospects and challenges for development trends in this field.

A condensation reaction of salicylic acid with formaldehyde in the presence of sulfuric acid led to the synthesization of the bis(2-hydroxy-3-carboxyphenyl)methane (BHCM) ligand, which was subsequently allowed to bind with nickel (II) ions. In light of the information obtained from the elemental analyses (C, H, and M), spectral (IR, MS, 1H-NMR, and UV–Vis) and thermal and magnetic measurements, the most likely structures of the ligand and complex have been identified. It has been suggested that the BHCM coordinates in a tetradentate manner with two Ni(II) ions to produce an octahedral binuclear complex. The SEM and TEM morphology of the compounds showed spherical shapes. An X-ray diffraction analysis indicated a considerable difference in the diffraction patterns between BHCM (crystalline) and Ni–BHCM (amorphous), and the Scherrer equation was used to calculate the crystallite size. Some optical characteristics were estimated from UV–Vis spectra. The ligand and its nickel(II) complex underlie the range of semiconductors. It was verified that for human lung (A-549) cancer, the BHCM compound displayed a significant barrier to the proliferation test in noncancerous cells (human lung fibroblasts, WI-38), which was also undertaken. To demonstrate the binding affinities of the chosen compounds (BHCM and Ni–BHCM) in the receptor protein’s active site [PDB ID: 5CAO], a molecular docking (MD) study was carried out.

Background: Type 2 diabetes has become a significant global health challenge. Numerous drugs have been developed to treat the condition, either as standalone therapies or in combination when glycemic control cannot be achieved with a single medication. As existing treatments often come with limitations, there is an increasing focus on creating novel therapeutic agents that offer greater efficacy and fewer side effects to better address this widespread issue. Methods: The methylene derivatives 3a,b were coupled with phenyl/ethyl isothiocyanate in the basic medium, and dimethyl sulfate was subsequently added. Further, 5a–d were reacted with the quinoline/naphthalene hydrazides 6a,b. The target compounds 7a–g were subjected to the in vitro enzyme inhibition studies on α-glucosidase, α-amylase, and aldose reductase. Results: 7g exerted remarkable inhibitory effects on α-glycosidase [Inhibitory Concentration (IC50): 20.23 ± 1.10 µg/mL] and α-amylase (17.15 ± 0.30 µg/mL), outperforming acarbose (28.12 ± 0.20 µg/mL for α-glycosidase and 25.42 ± 0.10 µg/mL for α-amylase), and exhibited a strong inhibition action on aldose reductase (12.15 ± 0.24 µg/mL), surpassing quercetin (15.45 ± 0.32 µg/mL) and the other tested compounds. In a computational study, 7g demonstrated promising binding affinities (−8.80, −8.91 kcal/mol) with α-glycosidase and α-amylase, compared to acarbose (−10.87, −10.38 kcal/mol) for α-glycosidase and α-amylase. Additionally, 7g had strong binding with aldose reductase (−9.20 kcal/mol) in comparison to quercetin (−9.95 kcal/mol). Molecular dynamics (MDs) simulations demonstrated that 7g remained stable over a 100 ns simulation period, and the binding free energy estimates remained consistent throughout this time. Conclusions: We reported the modification of quinoline and naphthalene rings to hydrazineylidene–propenamides 7a–g using various synthetic approaches. 7g emerged as a leading candidate, exhibiting greater inhibition of α-glycosidase, α-amylase, and aldose reductase. These findings underscore their potential as essential molecules for the development of innovative antidiabetic treatments.

The chemical interaction of salicylic acid, formaldehyde, and sulfuric acid produced a disalicylic ligand (3,3′-dicarboxy-2,2′-dihydroxydiphenylmethane, DCM), which was then allowed to coordinate with copper (II) ions. The solid compounds’ chemical structures were determined using elemental analysis, UV-Vis, FT-IR, MS, 1H-NMR, PXRD, SEM, TEM, magnetic studies, as well as molecular modeling based on DFT (density functional theory) calculations. It was proposed that the ligand coordinates in a tetradentate fashion with the copper ion to give a square-planar binuclear complex. A significant difference in the diffraction patterns between Cu(II)–DCM (amorphous) and DCM (crystalline) was displayed using an X-ray diffraction analysis. Spherical granules were identified throughout through morphology analysis using SEM and TEM. UV-Vis spectra were used to quantify the optical characteristics such as the energy gap, optical conductivity, refractive index, and penetration depth. The band gap values that lie within the semiconductor region suggested that the compounds could be used for electronic applications. The optimized structure of the synthesized Cu(II)–DCM complex was investigated using DFT and TD-DFT (time-dependent density functional theory) at the B3LYP/6-31G(d, p) level, with the LANL2DZ basis set for Cu in an ethanol solvent and the gas environment modeled by CPCM. The experimental data suggest a square-planar geometry of the Cu(II) binuclear complex. The theoretical calculations support the proposed structure of the compound. The cytotoxicity of the DCM against HCT–116 (human colon cancer) cells was tested, and the outcome exhibited good inhibitions of growth. A molecular docking (MD) examination was carried out to illustrate the binding mode/affinity of the prepared compounds (DCM and Cu(II)–DCM) in the active site of the receptor protein [CDK2 enzyme, PDB ID: 6GUE]. The compounds formed hydrogen bonds with the amino acid residues of the protein, increasing the binding affinity from −7.2 to −9.3 kcal/mol through the coordination process. The information from this current study, particularly the copper complex, is beneficial for exploring new compounds that have anticancer potential.

Formaldehyde, sulfuric acid and salicylic acid were combined to create a 3,3′-methylenebis(2-hydroxybenzoic acid) (MHB) ligand, which was subsequently permitted to bind with zinc(II) ions. The ligand and its zinc(II) complex (Zn–MHB) have been described by a combination of elemental analyses, spectral analyses (UV–Vis, IR, MS and NMR), XRD, TEM, as well as TGA measurement. The ligand has been suggested to coordinate to the zinc center in a tetradentate manner forming the binuclear tetrahedral complex. An X-ray analysis indicated a considerable difference between MHB (crystalline) and Zn–MHB (amorphous). The UV–Vis spectra were used to determine the optical properties such as bandgap, refractive index, optical conductivity and penetration depth. The possibility of employing the samples for optoelectronic applications was indicated from the band gap values which underlie the range of semiconductors. TEM revealed the spherical shapes and mutation of ligand particles into the nano-scale by complexation. The antimicrobial potential of the MHB towards Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial growths has been investigated. The results suggested that it would be possible to employ MHB to prevent bacterial development, particularly that of salmonella typhimurium. The cytotoxicity of the MHB was assessed against two types of mammalian cells: VERO (the kidney of an African green monkey) and HFB4 (human skin melanocytes). Lower sensitivity was observed in VERO cells.

Formaldehyde, sulfuric acid and salicylic acid were combined to create a 3,3′-methylenebis(2-hydroxybenzoic acid) (MHB) ligand, which was subsequently permitted to bind with zinc(II) ions. The ligand and its zinc(II) complex (Zn–MHB) have been described by a combination of elemental analyses, spectral analyses (UV–Vis, IR, MS and NMR), XRD, TEM, as well as TGA measurement. The ligand has been suggested to coordinate to the zinc center in a tetradentate manner forming the binuclear tetrahedral complex. An X-ray analysis indicated a considerable difference between MHB (crystalline) and Zn–MHB (amorphous). The UV–Vis spectra were used to determine the optical properties such as bandgap, refractive index, optical conductivity and penetration depth. The possibility of employing the samples for optoelectronic applications was indicated from the band gap values which underlie the range of semiconductors. TEM revealed the spherical shapes and mutation of ligand particles into the nano-scale by complexation. The antimicrobial potential of the MHB towards Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial growths has been investigated. The results suggested that it would be possible to employ MHB to prevent bacterial development, particularly that of salmonella typhimurium. The cytotoxicity of the MHB was assessed against two types of mammalian cells: VERO (the kidney of an African green monkey) and HFB4 (human skin melanocytes). Lower sensitivity was observed in VERO cells.

Background and Objectives: Screening for type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) aims to identify asymptomatic individuals who may be at a higher risk, allowing proactive interventions. The objective of this study was to predict the incidence of DM2 and prediabetes in the Saudi population over the next five years. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in the Aseer region through August 2023 using a cross-sectional survey for data collection. A multistage stratified random sampling technique was adopted, and data were collected through face-to-face interviews using the validated Arabic version of the Australian Type 2 Diabetes Risk Assessment Tool (AUSDRISK). Results: In total, 652 individuals were included in the study. Their mean age was 32.0 ± 12.0 years; 53.8% were male, 89.6% were from urban areas, and 55.8% were single. There were statistically significant differences between males and females in AUSDRISK items, including age, history of high blood glucose, use of medications for high blood pressure, smoking, physical activity, and measurements of waist circumference (p < 0.05). Based on AUSDRISK scores, 46.2% of the included participants were predicted to develop impaired glucose tolerance within the coming five years (65.8% among females vs. 23.6%), and 21.9% were predicted to develop DM2 (35.6% among males vs. 6.0% among females); this difference was statistically significant (p = 0.0001). Conclusions: Urgent public health action is required to prevent the increasing epidemic of DM2 in Saudi Arabia.

Background: The majority of causes of childhood blindness are preventable and treatable. There are an estimated 1.4 million blind children worldwide, with roughly three-quarters of them living in developing countries. In most low-income countries, school-age children account for 20%-30% of the total population.Aim: To evaluate parents' knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to pediatric eye medical services in Saudi Arabia's Aseer region.Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional approach was used targeting all parents in the Aseer region. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire developed by the study investigators. The questionnaire included parents’ sociodemographic data and a family history of blindness or visual disability. Parents’ awareness regarding pediatric eye care was assessed using relevant items. The parents’ practices and attitudes regarding eye care were also assessed within the questionnaire.Results: The study included 899 parents who replied to the online questionnaire in its entirety. Some 54% of the responding parents were aged 30-50 years, and 51.2% were males. Of the parents, 46.2% had a university-level education, and 48.5% accompanied their children for eye examinations. About 65% of the parents knew about clinics for eye examinations, and 63.3% of them knew that blind children could learn. In total, more than one-third of the parents were aware of pediatric eye care.Conclusions and Recommendations: The study found that parents were aware of pediatric eye health and sought eye care for their children. More effort should be put forth through planned awareness programs to educate parents and assist them in overcoming the fears and barriers that keep them from seeking eye care for their children.

Postgraduate programs (PGPs) in pharmacy practice have gained significant importance in recent years, reflecting the evolving roles and expanding responsibilities of pharmacists globally. Understanding the factors that influence the decision to pursue such programs is essential for workforce development and educational planning. This study aimed to assess the motivations and barriers influencing pharmacy interns in Saudi Arabia to pursue PGPs in pharmacy practice. This cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2019 to March 2020 and utilized a validated questionnaire distributed electronically to pharmacy interns (sixth-year pharmacy students) across 3 major pharmacy schools in Saudi Arabia. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square, and Fisher’s exact tests, with a significance level set at a P-value of less than .05. Of the 247 pharmacy interns invited, 157 (62%) completed the survey. Most respondents were female (82.8%) and had an average of 3 clinical and 2 nonclinical advanced pharmacy practice experiences. Approximately 20% intended to pursue PGPs immediately after graduation, while 60% would consider them later. Preferred career paths included hospital pharmacy (31.85%) and regulatory bodies (24.84%). The decision to pursue PGPs in pharmacy practice was influenced by PGP orientation during school, either positively or negatively. The primary motivator cited was the need for further training for future positions, whereas high competition was the most significant barrier. These findings offer valuable insight into pharmacy interns’ perspectives on PGPs, highlighting key motivators and barriers. This understanding can inform future educational strategies and stakeholder efforts aimed at supporting pharmacy interns’ career planning and addressing workforce development needs in pharmacy practice.

Given the growing popularity of contact lenses among female students in Saudi Arabia for various reasons including vision correction as well as aesthetic and therapeutic purposes, it is essential to understand the knowledge about them, their uses, and how to handle them, given their significance in healthcare. A cross-sectional study design was utilized in this research, employing data from a sample of 413 female students at the University of Bisha. The participants completed a self-administered questionnaire and were ensured anonymity. The study results showed that 52.9% (n=218) had a good knowledge level while 47.1% (n=195) had poor knowledge about contact lenses use. The results established a statistically significant association between region, faculty, and study year (p<0.005) with p-values of 0.002, 0.001, and 0.005, respectively, and level of knowledge about contact lens use. There was no statistically significant association between the age of the participants and the level of knowledge about contact lens use. Although there was a generally good level of awareness about contact lens use among female students, there is still insufficiency in knowledge with regard to particular aspects such as cleaning the contact lenses and contact lens cover. The study finds the need for more ocular educational sessions with ophthalmologists to increase awareness about contact lenses.