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HighlightsThe SiO2 nanofiber membranes and MXene@c-MWCNT6:4 as one unit layer (SMC1) were bonded together with 5 wt% PVA solution.When the structural unit is increased to three layers, the resulting SMC3 has an average electromagnetic interference SET of 55.4 dB and a low thermal conductivity of 0.062 W m−1 K−1.SMCx exhibit stable electromagnetic interference shielding and excellent thermal insulation even in extreme heat and cold environment.A lightweight flexible thermally stable composite is fabricated by combining silica nanofiber membranes (SNM) with MXene@c-MWCNT hybrid film. The flexible SNM with outstanding thermal insulation are prepared from tetraethyl orthosilicate hydrolysis and condensation by electrospinning and high-temperature calcination; the MXene@c-MWCNTx:y films are prepared by vacuum filtration technology. In particular, the SNM and MXene@c-MWCNT6:4 as one unit layer (SMC1) are bonded together with 5 wt% polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) solution, which exhibits low thermal conductivity (0.066 W m−1 K−1) and good electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding performance (average EMI SET, 37.8 dB). With the increase in functional unit layer, the overall thermal insulation performance of the whole composite film (SMCx) remains stable, and EMI shielding performance is greatly improved, especially for SMC3 with three unit layers, the average EMI SET is as high as 55.4 dB. In addition, the organic combination of rigid SNM and tough MXene@c-MWCNT6:4 makes SMCx exhibit good mechanical tensile strength. Importantly, SMCx exhibit stable EMI shielding and excellent thermal insulation even in extreme heat and cold environment. Therefore, this work provides a novel design idea and important reference value for EMI shielding and thermal insulation components used in extreme environmental protection equipment in the future.

This study reports the biochemical profile and in vitro biological activities of the aerial part of two shrubs: Halocnemum strobilaceum and Suaeda fruticosa, a halophytes species native to saline habitats. The biomass was evaluated by determining its physiological properties and approximate composition. Hydro-methanolic extracts from Halocnemum strobilaceum and Suaeda fruticosa have been investigated for the inhibition of bacterial growth, the protection of proteins (albumin) from denaturation, and cytotoxicity to hepatocellular carcinomas (Huh-7 and HepG2). Their antioxidant activity was evaluated by five tests, including one that examined their ability to inhibit hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced hemolysis. The profile of their phenolic compounds was also determined. These two euhalophytes had a high moisture content, high levels of photosynthetic pigments, elevated levels of ash and protein, low oxidative damage indices, MDA (Malondialdehyde) and proline, and low lipids levels. Their content was also characterized by a moderate acidity with good electrical conductivity. They contained abundant levels of phytochemicals and varied phenolic contents. Reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) analysis revealed the presence of caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, rutin, and quercetin in both plant extracts. On the pharmaceutical level, the two euhalophytes had anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic properties, and therefore it was recommended to isolate and identify biologically active compounds from these plants and evaluate them in vivo.

This study examines the mechanical and thermal properties of materials made from jute, glass, and kenaf fibers reinforced with various weight percentages of silicon carbide (SiC). The composites were manufactured with different SiC loadings, and their tensile strength, flexural strength, fracture toughness, moisture absorption, and thermal stability were evaluated. Tensile and flexural examinations were conducted to assess the structural integrity of the laminate under stress, revealing that the incorporation of 3% SiC led to a 27% improvement in tensile strength and an 18% increase in flexural strength, indicating enhanced load‐bearing capacity and flexibility. Microhardness and fracture toughness were also measured to determine resistance to crack propagation; results showed a 28% rise in microhardness and a 33% enhancement in fracture toughness with 3% SiC, signifying improved durability for structural applications. A moisture absorption study was carried out to evaluate the hydrophobic properties of the composites, which are crucial for long‐term performance in humid environments. The analysis demonstrated a significant reduction in water uptake with 3 wt% SiC, improving the composite's performance by minimizing water‐induced degradation. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) was employed to assess thermal stability and decomposition behavior, with findings indicating improved thermal stability with increasing SiC percentage. Overall, the integration of 3% SiC significantly enhanced mechanical strength, crack resistance, and moisture resistance, making the composite more suitable for demanding structural and environmental conditions. This study investigates jute, glass, and kenaf fiber composites reinforced with SiC. Results show that 3% SiC enhances tensile strength, flexural strength, and fracture toughness while reducing moisture absorption. Thermogravimetric analysis confirms improved thermal stability, making these composites suitable for moisture‐prone and high‐temperature applications.

Owing to the extensive usage of information technology, serious electromagnetic (EM) radiation pollutions are caused. Hence, investigating high-performance microwave absorption materials is crucial to dealing with the severe EM radiation problem. MXene, a novel 2D material, attracts extensive attention in EM fields due to its remarkable specific surface area, abundant functional groups, and high electrical conductivity. Meanwhile, various MXene-based nanocomposites with different components and morphologies were fabricated as efficient microwave absorbers. In this study, the theories of microwave absorption and the MXene fabrication methods were summarized, and recent advancements in MXene-based absorbers were comparatively discussed with detailed examples, especially, some newly emerged Mene-based composites including MXene/metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) derived composites and MXene/layered double hydroxides (LDHs) composites. The vital shortcomings of MXene-based nanocomposites for microwave absorption are disclosed, and the prospects have been proposed for synthesizing MXene-based microwave absorbers with multiple innovative applications. This review guides the structure and component design as effective absorbers. Graphical abstract This review summarized the most recent advancements of MXene-based composites for microwave absorption.

This study reports the biochemical profile and in vitro biological activities of the aerial part of two shrubs: Halocnemum strobilaceum and Suaeda fruticosa, a halophytes species native to saline habitats. The biomass was evaluated by determining its physiological properties and approximate composition. Hydro-methanolic extracts from Halocnemum strobilaceum and Suaeda fruticosa have been investigated for the inhibition of bacterial growth, the protection of proteins (albumin) from denaturation, and cytotoxicity to hepatocellular carcinomas (Huh-7 and HepG2). Their antioxidant activity was evaluated by five tests, including one that examined their ability to inhibit hydrogen peroxide (H[sub.2]O[sub.2])-induced hemolysis. The profile of their phenolic compounds was also determined. These two euhalophytes had a high moisture content, high levels of photosynthetic pigments, elevated levels of ash and protein, low oxidative damage indices, MDA (Malondialdehyde) and proline, and low lipids levels. Their content was also characterized by a moderate acidity with good electrical conductivity. They contained abundant levels of phytochemicals and varied phenolic contents. Reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) analysis revealed the presence of caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, rutin, and quercetin in both plant extracts. On the pharmaceutical level, the two euhalophytes had anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic properties, and therefore it was recommended to isolate and identify biologically active compounds from these plants and evaluate them in vivo.

Over the past decade, the therapeutic effects of essential oils have become a research interest. This study describes the chemical composition, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and insecticidal properties of Juniperus procera and Cinnamomum camphora essential oils. Essential oils were extracted by the steam distillation method and identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), revealing the presence of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes as the main components of J. procera, together with α-pinene, endo-Borneol, and 1, 8-cineole. C. camphora showed high concentrations of α-pinene, trans-Pinocarveol, and 1, 8-cineole. The antimicrobial investigation revealed that both essential oils displayed significant antibacterial efficacy against all tested organisms. J. procera demonstrated antibacterial activity ranging from 30.5 ± 0.70 to 24.0 ± 1.41 mm, surpassing that of C. camphora, with inhibition zones ranging from 19.5 ± 0.70 to 12.5 ± 0.70 mm. The essential oils were comparable to the reference antibiotic (chloramphenicol). Gram-positive bacteria exhibited higher susceptibility than Gram-negative bacteria. The insecticidal effects of essential oils on Aphis craccivora were studied, and results indicate increased death rates in a concentration-dependent manner when exposed to essential oils. The use of J. procera and C. camphora oils at concentrations below lethal levels was found to affect important biological factors in A. craccivora, including generation time, net reproductive rate, intrinsic rate of increase, and finite rate of growth. This suggests the potential of these oils to be effective agents for controlling pests. The multifaceted bioactivities of J. procera and C. camphora's essential oils highlight their promising potential as natural alternatives for antimicrobial and pest control applications.

Biomass represents a promising form of renewable energy with favourable market potential. Nanocatalysts, known for their high activity and controllability, offer an opportunity to enhance the efficiency of biomass conversion processes. This review specifically examines the significant role and impact of nanocatalysts in biomass hydrogen-producing pyrolysis, dark fermentation, electrocatalysis, and photocatalysis, as well as the associated preparation methods. Firstly, the potential of nanocatalysts in the catalytic pyrolysis of tar and their successful application in experimental reactors are reviewed. It discusses the enhancement of microorganism retention and the increase in hydrogen production rate through dark fermentation using composite nano-catalysts. Additionally, it highlights the promising application of 5-nm nanoscale NiO in electrocatalysis for a wide range of electrochemical reactions. The challenges of photocatalytic technology in efficient hydrogen production are also addressed. While nanocatalytic technology has positively impacted hydrogen production from biomass, challenges such as high cost, recyclability issues, and toxicity concerns persist. Future research directions include innovative nanocatalyst preparation, multi-technology combination, in-depth characterization research, and exploration of green nanocatalysts. Graphical abstract

The semiconductive cadmium sulfide (CdS) nanoparticles were coated on the surface of Methanosarcina barkeri ( M. barkeri ) by self-assembly method to form the M. barkeri -CdS biohybrid in this work. It proved to be an effective and selective catalyst for the solar-driven conversion of CO 2 to CH 4 , enabling the upgrading of biogas from anaerobic digestion. The physicochemical properties of the synthesized biohybrid were characterized, and the effect of various conditions on the CH 4 production of the biohybrid was also investigated. It was revealed that the CdS dosage, pH, cysteine, and concentration of sodium bicarbonate were key factors influencing the performance of the biohybrid. Additionally, it was observed that CH 4 was produced under both light and dark conditions. Finally, the mechanisms involved in the CH 4 production by the biohybrid under light and dark conditions were discussed. Graphical abstract Methanosarcina barkeri –cadmium sulfide biohybrid can effectively convert carbon dioxide to methane, achieving biogas upgrading.

Cyberbullying has emerged as a pervasive problem among high school students, with potentially severe consequences for their mental well-being. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence, risk factors, and associations of cyberbullying with stress and mental well-being among high school students in Zagazig, Egypt. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 562 high school students using a random sampling technique. The data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire that included the Cyberbullying Scale, Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), and General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12). Descriptive statistics, independent samples t-tests, multiple regression, mediation, and logistic regression analyses were employed for data analysis. The prevalence of cyberbullying victimization was 38.3%, with 20.6% exposed to two or three cyberbullying behaviors and 4.1% exposed to four or more. Female students, those under 18 years old, those with lower educational achievement, and those with higher daily internet use were more likely to experience cyberbullying. Cyberbullied students reported significantly higher levels of perceived stress and poorer mental well-being compared to non-cyberbullied students. Perceived stress likely mediated the relationship between cyberbullying victimization and general psychological health. Cyberbullying is a significant problem among high school students in Zagazig, Egypt, with detrimental effects on their stress levels and mental well-being. Targeted interventions and prevention strategies are needed to address cyberbullying and promote the well-being of adolescents in the digital age.