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Comprehensive Summary: The direct oxidation of methane (CH4) into high‐valued C1 oxygenates production has garnered increased attention in effectively using vast CH4 and alleviating the global energy crisis. However, due to the high cleavage energy of C—H bond and low polarity of CH4 molecule, it is difficult to activate the first C—H bond. Furthermore, C1 oxygenates are readily inclined to be oxidized to CO2, because their weaker C—H bond comparing with CH4 molecule, resulting in poor selectivity. Herein, we designed ultrathin PdxAuy alloy NWs supported on ZSM‐5 (Z‐5) to investigate the direct oxidation of CH4 to high value‐added oxygenate under mild conditions. By precisely adjusting the molar ratio of Pd/Au and alloying degree, Pd9Au1NWs/Z‐5 showed an excellent yield of 11.57 mmol·g–l·h–1 and the outstanding selectivity of 95.1% for C1 oxygenates (CH3OH, CH3OOH and HCOOH). The in‐situ spectroscopic and mechanism analysis proved that the enhanced catalytic performance of Pd9Au1NWs/Z‐5 was ascribed to the stable one‐dimensional nanostructure and the strong synergy effect with high alloying PdAu, which could increase the adsorption capacity of CH4 molecules on Pd atoms to promote the CH4 conversion. This work offers valuable insights into the design concept of high‐efficient catalysts and the structure‐activity relationship for the direct oxidation of CH4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen holds the promise of replacing fossil fuels and offers a sustainable pathway for energy generation. However, the large-scale production of hydrogen via the environment friendly electrocatalytic process relies heavily on the performance of electrocatalysts. In this study, we investigate the electrocatalytic performance of graphene nanosheets (GNS), molybdenum disulfide (MoS 2), ruthenium dioxide (RuO 2), and their composites for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), a novel combination that has not been explored in previous literature. We synthesize the materials using Liquid Phase Exfoliation at 500 and 1000 RPMs for GNS and MoS 2 and via hydrothermal methods for RuO 2 nanosheets and nanoparticles, aiming to exploit synergistic effects for enhanced activity and stability. The synthesized GNS-1000/MoS 2 -1000/RuO 2 -NSs composite demonstrates promising HER results, showcasing a low overpotential of 63 mV and a reduced Tafel slope of 59 mV/dec. This improvement indicates enhanced electron transfer, improved active site dispersion, and increased surface area due to the synergistic effects, which also aids in long-term electrochemical stability. Our study underlines the potential of GNS/MoS 2 /RuO 2 composites, particularly the GNS-1000/MoS 2 -1000/RuO 2 -NSs, in transforming hydrogen production methods and promoting efficient, sustainable energy solutions. The implications of our findings extend the boundaries of materials engineering, edging us closer to a sustainable energy future. • Novel GNS/MoS 2 /RuO 2 catalyst enhances HER with low overpotential and Tafel slope. • Synergistic effects of GNS, MoS 2 , and RuO 2 boost electron transfer in HER. • Cost-effective alternative to platinum catalysts developed for hydrogen production. • Optimized synthesis improves catalytic activity and stability in HER. • Composite catalyst offers potential for sustainable energy applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a commonly applied ignition composition, Zr/KClO 4 has attracted various interests and plenty of efforts have been made to improve the combustion performance. In this study, Si nanoparticles were incorporated into Zr/KClO 4 by sonication. Around 2.5× peak pressure and 9.2× reactivity were achieved by Si/50%Zr/KClO 4 when compared to Zr/KClO 4. In addition, the peak pressure and pressurization rate of Si/Zr/KClO 4 ternary systems are all superior to ones of both Zr/KClO 4 and Si/KClO 4 binary systems. The synergetic effect of Si/Zr/KClO 4 is a combination of shorter ignition delay of Zr/KClO 4 and more gas production of Si/KClO 4 , which is also reflected on the higher flame propagation rate of Si/Zr-based thermites than composites with pure Si or Zr as the fuel. Meanwhile, the heat release during the redox reaction has been measured. The results show ∼700–1000 J/g higher energy release than Zr/KClO 4 , and higher combustion efficiency can be attained by ternary systems than binary ones. Thus, adding Si powders is an effective way to improve the energetic behavior of Zr/KClO 4 ignition composition, and Si/Zr/KClO 4 ternary composites can be a promising candidate for application in pyrotechnics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bakelite, a thermosetting plastic, has limited feasibility for thermal recycling processes such as pyrolysis, unlike thermoplastics, due to its inherent tendency to get charred upon heating and difficulty in being converted into valuable fuel and chemical compounds. In this study, the co‐pyrolysis of bakelite and poly methyl methacrylate is explored to improve the thermal degradation and thus recycling feasibility of bakelite by pyrolysis. The kinetics and thermodynamics of the co‐pyrolysis of blended samples are analyzed using different kinetics models. The thermal degradation experiments of the sample are conducted from ambient to 1000 °C at five various heating rates of 5, 10, 20, 30, and 50 °C/min in an inert N2 gas environment. The results showed that adding poly methyl methacrylate to bakelite changes the pyrolytic degradation temperature and weight loss trend. The kinetic analysis reveals that the thermal degradation at 220–345 °C follows an F2.5 order‐based model with an average activation energy of 181 kJ/mol, while the degradation at 345–475 °C follows an F2 order‐based model with an average activation energy of 318 kJ/mol. The enthalpy changes and free energy change associated with thermal degradation exhibit a positive trend while that of entropy change shows a negative trend. With blending the free energy change and entropy change decreased while enthalpy change increased. During batch pyrolysis at 450 °C, the PMMA‐Bakelite blend generates oil (49.17 %), wax (12.36 %), residue (15.36 %), and gas (23.11 %). According to FTIR and GC‐MS analyses, the pyrolytic oil produced by the co‐pyrolysis of the blended sample at 450 °C comprises 32.23 % saturated hydrocarbons (C9–40), 20.97 % unsaturated hydrocarbons (C6–24), and 46.80 % oxygenated material (C5–19). These findings can assist in the optimization of pyrolysis reactor design for the recycling of thermosetting plastics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2) emerges as a viable oxidant for fuel cells, necessitating the development of an efficient and cost-effective electrocatalyst for the hydrogen peroxide reduction reaction (HPRR). In this study, we synthesized a self-supporting, highly active HPRR electrocatalyst comprising two morphologically distinct components: CeO 2 -NiCo 2 O 4 nanowires and CeO 2 -NiCo 2 O 4 metal organic framework derivatives, via a two-step hydrothermal process followed by air calcination. X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy analysis confirmed the presence of CeO 2 and NiCo 2 O 4 , revealing the amalgamated interface between them. CeO 2 exhibits multifunctionality in regulating the surface electronic configuration of NiCo 2 O 4 , fostering synergistic connections, and introducing oxygen deficiencies to enhance the catalytic efficacy in HPRR. Electrochemical measurements demonstrate a reduction current density of 789.9 mA·cm−2 at −0.8 V vs. Ag/AgCl. The assembly of direct borohydride-hydrogen peroxide fuel cell (DBHPFC) exhibits a peak power density of 45.2 mW·cm−2, demonstrating durable stability over a continuous operation period of 120 h. This investigation providing evidence that the fabrication of heterostructured catalysts based on CeO 2 for HPRR is a viable approach for the development of high-efficiency electrocatalysts in fuel cell technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, nitrogen-doped carbon (NC) coated tens nanometer hydrangea macrophylla-like CeO2(CeO2-NC) was synthesized by simple hydrothermal and polymeric calcination approach. Samples are characterised by SEM, Raman spectroscopy, XPS, etc. CeO2-NC shows an initial potential of 0.90V (vs. Ag/AgCl) in 9.5 M H3PO4. In addition, the CeO2-NC composite also exhibits a high limiting current (6.25 mA mg−1). CeO2-NC effectively combines the high initial potential of CeO2 with the high limiting current of NC. Moreover, a hybrid proton battery assembled with CeO2-NC composite as the cathode catalyst and MoO3 (1 mg) as anode catalyst can produce a high capacity of 261.7 mAh at 1 A g−1. The hybrid battery also exhibits excellent catalytic stability. After 1000 cycles at a high current density of 15 A g−1, the capacity of the battery still remains 125.0 mAh, with a retention rate of approximately 90.9%. The improvement in battery performance is due to the use of NC to coat CeO2, which improves the limiting current and durability of the electrode. The presented hybrid proton batteries have further enriched the application of electrochemical energy storage devices, and the preliminary exploration of cathode catalysts significantly improved the catalytic performance of ORR under acidic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) composites reinforced by cryptocrystalline graphite (CG) and multi‐wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were prepared. The SBR composite with 50 phr CG content displays superior mechanical reinforcement achieving 20.7 MPa in tensile strength. However, the electrical conductivity enhancement is modest. After incorporating MWCNTs as a secondary filler, the electrical conductivity significantly improved. The results show that the electrical conductivity of the SBR composite reinforced with 10 phr of CG and an additional 5 phr of MWCNTs surpasses that achieved by using 50 phr of CG solely. This enhancement can be attributed to the inherent excellent electric conductivity and high aspect ratio of MWCNTs, with their presence also preventing the re‐agglomeration of CG. Furthermore, within 10–40 phr content of CG, the mechanical reinforcement of CG‐SBR composites is enhanced with the addition of MWCNTs, whereas a minor decline in tensile strength is noted when the concentration of CG above 40 phr. Overall, the SBR composite reinforced with a synergistic combination of CG and MWCNTs is achieved, demonstrating both exceptional mechanical and conductive properties. Highlights: Styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) composites with different cryptocrystalline graphite (CG) phr and additional multi‐wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were characterized.CG‐SBR displays good mechanical property but limited electrical conductivity.Proper ratio of CG/MWCNTs significantly enhances various properties.MWCNTs act as a "bridge" structure connecting isolated CG filler in SBR matrix.MWCNTs network effectively prevents the re‐agglomeration of CG nanosheets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyclic carbonate hydrogenation offers an alternative for the efficient indirect CO2 utilization. In this study, a series of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) supported xCu/CNTs catalysts with different Cu loadings were fabricated using a convenient impregnation method, and exhibited excellent catalytic activity for the hydrogenation of ethylene carbonate to methanol and ethylene glycol. The structural and physicochemical properties revealed that acid treatment of CNTs resulted in plentiful oxygen‐containing functional groups, providing sufficient anchoring sites for copper species. The calcination process conducted under an inert atmosphere resulted in the formation of ternary CuO, Cu2O, and Cu composites, enhancing the metal‐support interaction and facilitating the formation of balanced Cu0 and Cu+ dual sites as well as high active surface area after reduction. Contributed to the synergetic effect of balanced Cu+ and Cu0 species proved by density functional theory calculation and the electron‐rich CNTs surface, the 40Cu/CNTs catalyst achieved strengthened catalytic performance with methanol yield of 83 %, ethylene glycol yield of 99 % at ethylene carbonate conversion of >99 %, and 150 h of long‐term running stability. Consequently, CNTs supported Cu serve as efficient non‐silica based catalyst for ester hydrogenation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This study tackles a critical challenge in logistics optimization: assessing the economic efficiency not only of individual entities within a logistics chain, but also the synergistic benefits that arise from their collaboration. We achieve this by proposing a methodology that evaluates the economic efficiency of interactions between participants in a logistics chain. This methodology goes beyond individual efficiency and delves into how the overall economic benefit is distributed among key stakeholders. These stakeholders include freight owners, who initiate the delivery process, forwarders who manage and optimize deliveries, carriers who physically transport goods, and freight terminals that facilitate cargo handling and storage. To ensure the methodology’s relevance to contemporary practices, we begin with a comprehensive review of recent advancements in delivery chain optimization research. We propose to measure the synergetic effect by considering delivery demand parameters, such as the weight of the consignment and the distance it needs to travel. To validate our methodology and gain practical insights, we conducted a series of experimental studies specifically tailored to the Kazakhstani transportation market. By analysing the share of the synergistic effect under varying delivery demand parameters, we were able to identify trends and patterns.

This study focused on investigating thermal degradation behaviors, kinetics, reaction mechanisms, synergistic effects, and thermodynamic parameters of wood sawdust (WSD), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), and their blends (LW1:3, LW1:1, and LW3:1) during co-pyrolysis in a thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA). Thermal behavior exhibited a LW1:3 blend (25 wt.% LLDPE) showing significant mass loss at lower temperatures (150 to 300 °C) compared to the individual feedstocks, such as 150 to 400 °C and 300 to 520 °C for WSD and LLDPE, respectively. The iso-conversional methods (KAS, FWO, and FM) were used to determine the kinetic parameters (Ea and A), and the activation energy drop was highest for the LW1:3 blend. According to the master plots, the third-order reaction (O3), nucleation (P2/3), and diffusional model (D4) were the predominant reaction mechanisms for the co-pyrolysis of the LW1:3, LW1:1, and LW3:1 blend, respectively. The thermodynamic parameters demonstrate that a small amount of plastic addition into WSD can improve the reactivity of the blend, shorten the reaction time, and cause less energy-intensive reactions. The values of ΔH, ΔG, and ΔS also confirmed the co-pyrolysis process's spontaneity and endothermic nature. The Fourier transforms infrared spectrometer (FTIR) spectra of raw feedstock, blends, and their biochar revealed some of the peaks were shifted, the intensity was reduced, and disappearance can happen when the temperature was increased. Using the experimental and theoretical/predicted activation energies, the parity chart illustrates the synergistic effects of co-pyrolysis of different blends, and the LW1:3 blend has a favorable synergistic impact. These results could be helpful in process optimization and designing an effective reactor system for co-pyrolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing an efficient strategy to replace the conventional synthesis method for producing isoindolinone (IIO) scaffold, a crucial structural motif for constructing pharmaceutical molecules, remains to be a great challenge. Herein, a single‐atom Pd/TiO2 tandem catalysis has been developed for the IIO scaffold synthesis by using readily available phthalic anhydride (PA), ammonia, and H2. The single‐atom Pd/TiO2 catalyst demonstrates superior catalytic performance, achieving a PA conversion of 99 %, an IIO selectivity of 91 %, and a turnover frequency (TOF) up to 4807 h−1. This exceptional performance can be attributed to the tandem catalysis between TiO2 support and single‐atom Pd. The TiO2 efficiently catalyzes the conversion of PA with ammonia to form phthalimide (PAM), subsequently transformed into IIO over TiO2 through the reaction of PAM with NH3 and the spillover hydrogen species derived from single‐atom Pd. Notably, NH3 functions not only as a reactant but also as a promoter to accelerate the reduction of amides combined with the Pd/TiO2 catalyst. This tandem catalysis of a single‐atom Pd/TiO2 catalyst provides a promising strategy for the synthesis of the crucial IIO platform molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utilization of waste pollution to solve electromagnetic waves pollution is a good strategy towards a green future. In this study, we have used two different biowastes, wheat stubble and peanut hulls, as biocarbon sources to obtain two diverse inherited morphologies, i.e., sheet-like morphology from wheat stubble and distorted/ripped biocarbon morphology from peanut hulls. Detailed microwave absorption characterization analysis shows that the distorted/ripped morphology has better reflection loss and effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) as compared to the sheet-like morphology. Furthermore, MnFe 2 O 4 particles are also used to get composites with both types of biocarbon. The minimum reflection loss (RLmini) value achieved by the ripped biocarbon/ MnFe 2 O 4 is − 40.6 dB, with EAB being 5.6 GHz (13.2–7.6 GHz). Our findings show that better microwave absorption performance is attributed to the distorted/ripped morphology and by biocarbon– MnFe 2 O 4 synergetic influence. These findings open a route for biowaste and magnetic waste to be used in controllable microwave absorption applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our study specifically explores the biosynthesis of copper–silver bimetallic nanoparticles (Cu–Ag BMNPs) using Argyreia nervosa (AN) plant leaf green extract as a versatile agent for capping, reducing, and stabilizing. This biosynthesis method is characterized by its simplicity and cost-effectiveness, utilizing silver nitrate (AgNO3) and cupric oxide (CuO) as precursor materials. Our comprehensive characterization of the Cu–Ag BMNPs, employing techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–Vis spectrometry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Zetasizer, and Fourier transformed infrared spectrometry (FTIR). FTIR analysis reveals biofunctional groups and chemical bands, while SEM and XRD analyses provide morphological and structural details. To evaluate the antimicrobial properties of the Cu–Ag BMNPs, we conducted disc diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays against Escherichia coli (E. coli), with results compared to the standard gentamicin antibiotic. It is observed that the 2% and 5% CuO concentrations of AN Cu–Ag BMNPs exhibit substantial antibacterial activity in comparison to AN extract when tested on EPEC. Among these, the Cu–Ag BMNPs at a 2% concentration demonstrate higher antibacterial activity, potentially attributed to the enhanced dispersion of BMNPs facilitated by the lower CuO doping concentration. These two assays showcased the improved antimicrobial activity of Cu–Ag BMNPs, highlighting their synergistic effect, characterized by high MIC values and a broad zone of inhibition in the disc diffusion tests against E. coli. These results emphasize the significant antibacterial potential of the synthesized BMNPs, with a medicinal plant AN leaf extract playing a pivotal role in enhancing antibacterial activity. Novelty: The most important aspect of this research project is the role of the Argyreia nervosa plant leaf extract in improving and enhancing the antibacterial activity of the Cu–Ag BMNPs. This underscores the novel synergy between plant extracts and nanomaterials for practical applications. Also, this study's novelty arises from its innovative approach to biosynthesis, the pivotal role of AN plant leaf extract, and the potential for addressing real-world challenges related to bacterial infections and resistance. The enhanced antibacterial properties brought about by this unique synergy have far-reaching implications in diverse applications and underscore the potential of bimetallic nanoparticles in nano-biotechnology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of multifunctional antibacterial materials based on semiconductor materials has become the focus of treatment in the field of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Here, for the first time, the superb photocatalytic/photothermal antibacterial activity of BP/MoS2 and BP/WS2 nanocomposites against both E. coli and S. aureus under near-infrared (NIR) or light-emitting diode (LED) illumination was demonstrated. Characterization studies using advanced instrumental techniques confirmed the successful formation of BP/WS2 and BP/MoS2 S-scheme heterojunctions with distinct structural, morphological, and compositional features. Moreover, it was verified that the enhanced photo-antibacterial activity of both heterojunctions compared to their pristine analogs was demonstrated to be due to the synergistic interactions at the atomic level elucidated by Mo/W–S–P via a sulfur atom bridge in X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis, which improves the charge flow and enhances the photocatalytic performance. Optical density measurements were performed to obtain bacterial growth over 4 h, where BP/WS2 (≅88%) and BP/MoS2 (≅83%) showed higher NIR light-driven antibacterial activity compared to the pristine analogs (BP nanosheets, WS2 or MoS2 nanostructures), which is attributed to the S-scheme heterojunctions formed between BP and MS2 that enhance the production of ROS by promoting the use of light-induced carriers. The photo-antibacterial activities of BP/WS2 and BP/MoS2 heterojunctions reached 93% and 98%, respectively. The bacterial mechanical rupture effect of BP/WS2 and BP/MoS2 heterojunctions was monitored using SEM and E. coli was found to be more resistant to damage than S. aureus. The ability of BP/WS2 and BP/MoS2 to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) was better than that of pristine BP nanosheets, as demonstrated by a glutathione (GSH) oxidation assay. The photothermal activities of the nanocomposites were investigated to explain the photoinduced antibacterial mechanism. In addition, the photo-antibiofilm activities of BP/WS2 and BP/MoS2 heterojunctions were also investigated and the biofilm structure of S. aureus was almost completely eradicated under LED light irradiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Though the different exposed crystal facets of cadmium sulfide (CdS) catalysts have been demonstrated to enhance their photocatalytic activity, the mechanism behind H 2 evolution on these diverse facets remains elusive. Here, we synthesized CdS photocatalysts with co-exposed (101) and (002) crystal facets, incorporating S vacancies via a hydrothermal method within the temperature range from 80 to 240 °C. The resulting CdS nanorods exhibited exposed (002) and (101) crystal facets, demonstrating abundant S vacancies, and showcased a notable photocatalytic hydrogen (H 2) evolution activity of 467.67 μmol g−1·h−1—approximately 144 times higher than that of CdS nanoparticles. Both experimental results and density functional theory (DFT) calculations showed the significance of co-exposed (101) and (002) crystal facets as self-constructed crystal homojunctions on CdS, facilitating efficient spatial separation of photogenerated charges. Additionally, co-exposed (101) and (002) crystal facets with S vacancies, stemming from the mismatched lattice, were observed to enhance the adsorption of water (H 2 O) molecules. This, in turn, reduced the energy required for H 2 dissociative adsorption, providing thermodynamic advantages. The understanding of the synergistic effect between self-constructed (101) and (002) facet junctions and S vacancies on CdS for boosting photocatalytic H 2 evolution holds promise for expanding the applications of CdS-based materials in various photocatalytic processes. [Display omitted] • The synergistic effect of self-constructed facet junctions and S vacancies on CdS boosts photocatalytic H 2 evolution. • Mismatched lattices in co-exposed (101) and (002) facets produce S vacancies, enhancing H 2 O molecule adsorption. • Understanding of crystal facets and S vacancies is crucial for refining strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study tackles a critical challenge in logistics optimization: assessing the economic efficiency not only of individual entities within a logistics chain, but also the synergistic benefits that arise from their collaboration. We achieve this by proposing a methodology that evaluates the economic efficiency of interactions between participants in a logistics chain. This methodology goes beyond individual efficiency and delves into how the overall economic benefit is distributed among key stakeholders. These stakeholders include freight owners, who initiate the delivery process, forwarders who manage and optimize deliveries, carriers who physically transport goods, and freight terminals that facilitate cargo handling and storage. To ensure the methodology's relevance to contemporary practices, we begin with a comprehensive review of recent advancements in delivery chain optimization research. We propose to measure the synergetic effect by considering delivery demand parameters, such as the weight of the consignment and the distance it needs to travel. To validate our methodology and gain practical insights, we conducted a series of experimental studies specifically tailored to the Kazakhstani transportation market. By analysing the share of the synergistic effect under varying delivery demand parameters, we were able to identify trends and patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High efficiency and stability are two crucial factors in piezocatalysis reactions. In this research, the efficiency of Fe2O3 piezo catalysts significantly increased by coupling it with Na2WO4. Results indicate that Fe2O3 and Na2WO4 have a synergetic effect on the degradation of Amoxicillin (AMX), with Fe2O3/Na2WO4 degrading 88 % of AMX in the same conditions that pure Fe2O3 and Na2WO4 degrade only 42 % and 20.6 %, respectively. The degradation efficiency of Fe2O3 was improved by 114 % when it was coupled with Na2WO4. Fe2O3/Na2WO4 piezo catalyst was successfully used in 8 cycles while it keeps almost 85 % of its efficiency which indicates the stability of prepared piezo catalysts. Studying the mechanism of degradation by Fe2O3/Na2WO4 revealed that superoxide free radicals have a critical function in the decomposition of AMX. The kinetic study also indicates that at lower temperatures, the reaction follows a first-order reaction.

Oxide-dispersion-strengthened (ODS) reduced-activation ferritic/martensitic (RAFM) steels are considered as most promising structural materials for fusion reactors and other advanced nuclear systems due to its excellent irradiation resistance under high dose irradiations. However, the extreme complex synergistic effect between transmuted helium/hydrogen and displacement damage which most seriously affects the structure and mechanical properties of ODS-RAFM steels is very difficult to understand, especially the role of hydrogen still remains unclear. Taking advantage of very sensitive to small vacancy clusters of Positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) method, we conducted irradiation defect study on ODS-RAFM, RAFM and its corresponding model alloy Fe–9Cr and α-Fe to investigate their anti-swelling properties at the early stage of irradiation with hydrogen-helium synergism and the mechanism. Three distinct irradiation schemes including (1) single Fe ion beam, (2) simultaneous Fe and He (named Fe + He) ion beam, (3) subsequent H ion injection after Fe + He (named Fe + He/H) ion beam irradiation were performed. Hydrogen-helium synergistic effects on vacancy evolution within these steels were explored combining the first-principles calculation. The implantation of He was observed to significantly increase defect concentration among all four steels, while H exhibited interestingly complexity on affecting the evolution of helium bubbles. The H post-injection increased defect concentration obviously in the materials with abundant sinks, but improved poorly in ones with rare sinks. Through the systematic study of the interactions between H, He, and vacancies, it was revealed that even at the early irradiation stage, ODS-RAFM steels has already exhibited excellent irradiation resistance compared to other alloys across three irradiation schemes.

Abstract Background Melanoma is the most lethal skin cancer characterized by its high metastatic potential. In the past decade, targeted and immunotherapy have brought revolutionary survival benefits to patients with advanced and metastatic melanoma, but these treatment responses are also heterogeneous and/or do not achieve durable responses. Therefore, novel therapeutic strategies for improving outcomes remain an unmet clinical need. The aim of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic potential and underlying molecular mechanisms of RC48, a novel HER2-target antibody drug conjugate, either alone or in combination with dabrafenib, a V600-mutant BRAF inhibitor, for the treatment of advanced BRAF-mutant cutaneous melanoma. Methods We evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of RC48, alone or in combination with dabrafenib, in BRAF-mutant cutaneous melanoma cell lines and cell-derived xenograft (CDX) models. We also conducted signaling pathways analysis and global mRNA sequencing to explore mechanisms underlying the synergistic effect of the combination therapy. Results Our results revealed the expression of membrane-localized HER2 in melanoma cells. RC48 effectively targeted and inhibited the growth of HER2-positive human melanoma cell lines and corresponding CDX models. When used RC48 and dabrafenib synergically induced tumor regression together in human BRAF-mutant melanoma cell lines and CDX models. Mechanically, our results demonstrated that the combination therapy induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest while suppressing cell motility in vitro. Furthermore, global RNA sequencing analysis demonstrated that the combination treatment led to the downregulation of several key signaling pathways, including the PI3K-AKT pathway, MAPK pathway, AMPK pathway, and FOXO pathway. Conclusion These findings establish a preclinical foundation for the combined use of an anti-HER2 drug conjugate and a BRAF inhibitor in the treatment of BRAF-mutant cutaneous melanoma.

In this work, the kinetics, thermodynamics, and mechanism for co-pyrolysis of thermoplastic (PP, HDPE, PS, PMMA) blended bakelite (BL) (1:1 by weight) are explored utilizing different kinetics models like model-fitting and KAS model-free method. The thermal degradation experiments of each sample are conducted from ambient to 1000 °C temperature at 5, 10, 20, 30, and 50 °C/min heating rates in an inert environment. Thermoplastic blended bakelite is degraded in four steps, including two significant weight loss steps. A significant synergetic effect was observed by the addition of thermoplastics, which is reflected in the change in the thermal degradation temperature zone and the weight loss pattern. Among the four thermoplastics blended bakelites, the promotional synergetic effect is more pronounced for PP addition, causing an increase in the degradation of discarded bakelite by 20%, whereas the addition of PS, HDPE, and PMMA enhances the degradation of bakelite by 10%, 8%, and 3% respectively. Again, the activation energy of the thermal degradation of PP blended bakelite is found lowest followed by HDPE blended bakelite, PMMA blended bakelite, and PS blended bakelite. The mechanism of thermal degradation of bakelite changed from F5 to F3, F3, F1, and F2.5 by the addition of PP, HDPE, PS, and PMMA respectively. A significant change in the thermodynamics of the reaction is also found in the addition of thermoplastics. The kinetics, degradation mechanism, and thermodynamics for thermal degradation of the thermoplastic blended bakelite contribute to the optimization of pyrolysis reactor design to increase valuable pyrolytic products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of electrochemical hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) for renewable energy conversion contributes to the ultimate goal of a zero-carbon emission society. Metal phosphides have been considered as promising HER catalysts in the alkaline environment, which, unfortunately, is still limited owing to the weak adsorption of H* and easy dissolution during operation. Herein, a bimetallic NiCoP-2/NF phosphide is constructed on nickel foam (NF), requiring rather low overpotentials of 150 mV and 169 mV to meet the current densities of 500 and 1000 mA cm−2, respectively, and able to operate stably for 100 h without detectable activity decay. The excellent HER performance is obtained thanks to the synergetic catalytic effect between Ni and Co, among which Ni is introduced to enhance the intrinsic activity and Co increases the electrochemically active area. Meanwhile, the protection of the externally generated amorphous phosphorus oxide layer improves the stability of NiCoP/NF. An electrolyser using NiCoP-2/NF as both cathode and anode catalysts in an alkaline solution can produce hydrogen with low electric consumption (overpotential of 270 mV at 500 mA cm−2). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogenated nanocrystalline silicon oxide (nc‐SiOx:H) has drawn extensive attention during the past years for the utilization of silicon heterojunction (SHJ) solar cells. This material is demonstrated to be the key to the performance improvement of SHJ solar cells. Herein, the influence of the process gas compositions on the optical, electronic, chemical, and structural properties of n‐type nc‐SiOx:H films at the thickness of 38 nm is systematically investigated. The synergetic effect of CO2 and PH3 gas flow fraction (fCO2$f_{\left(\text{CO}\right)_{2}}$ and fPH3$f_{\left(\text{PH}\right)_{3}}$) and the synergetic effect of CO2 and SiH4 gas flow fraction (fCO2$f_{\left(\text{CO}\right)_{2}}$ and fSiH4$f_{\left(\text{SiH}\right)_{4}}$) on the growth of nc‐SiOx:H (n) films are demonstrated. Creatively combining the Fourier‐transform infrared, UV‐Raman scattering spectroscopy, spectroscopy ellipsometry, and photo‐thermal deflection spectroscopy measurement, the mechanism behind the synergetic effect of the gas compositions on the material properties is analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Melanoma is the most lethal skin cancer characterized by its high metastatic potential. In the past decade, targeted and immunotherapy have brought revolutionary survival benefits to patients with advanced and metastatic melanoma, but these treatment responses are also heterogeneous and/or do not achieve durable responses. Therefore, novel therapeutic strategies for improving outcomes remain an unmet clinical need. The aim of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic potential and underlying molecular mechanisms of RC48, a novel HER2-target antibody drug conjugate, either alone or in combination with dabrafenib, a V600-mutant BRAF inhibitor, for the treatment of advanced BRAF-mutant cutaneous melanoma. Methods: We evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of RC48, alone or in combination with dabrafenib, in BRAF-mutant cutaneous melanoma cell lines and cell-derived xenograft (CDX) models. We also conducted signaling pathways analysis and global mRNA sequencing to explore mechanisms underlying the synergistic effect of the combination therapy. Results: Our results revealed the expression of membrane-localized HER2 in melanoma cells. RC48 effectively targeted and inhibited the growth of HER2-positive human melanoma cell lines and corresponding CDX models. When used RC48 and dabrafenib synergically induced tumor regression together in human BRAF-mutant melanoma cell lines and CDX models. Mechanically, our results demonstrated that the combination therapy induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest while suppressing cell motility in vitro. Furthermore, global RNA sequencing analysis demonstrated that the combination treatment led to the downregulation of several key signaling pathways, including the PI3K-AKT pathway, MAPK pathway, AMPK pathway, and FOXO pathway. Conclusion: These findings establish a preclinical foundation for the combined use of an anti-HER2 drug conjugate and a BRAF inhibitor in the treatment of BRAF-mutant cutaneous melanoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, the authors prepared nanocomposite cotton gauze cloth (NCGC) by in situ generating the nanoparticles of silver (ANPs) and copper (CuNPs) and their binary metallic nanoparticles (BMNPs) using aqueous extraction of Azadirachta indica leaves as a reducing agent. The NCGCs had roughly spherical AgNPs, CuNPs and BMNPs in the size range of 50–120 nm. The corresponding mean size of the spherical AgNPs, CuNPs and BMNPs was 94, 89 and 87 nm respectively. The participation of the hydroxyl and amino groups of the leaf extract in the generation of the metal nanoparticles in the NCGCs was established by studying the chemical interactions. All the NCGC specimens exhibited significant antibacterial activity. However, the NCGCs with BMNPs had higher antibacterial efficiency when compared to those with homo metal nanoparticles. Hence, the NCGC with generated BMNPs can be effectively used as antibacterial wound dressing material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep degradation of organic pollutants by sunlight-induced coupled photocatalytic and Fenton (photo-Fenton) reactions is of immense importance for water purification. In this work, we report a novel bifunctional catalyst (Fe-PEI-CN) by codoping graphitic carbon nitride (CN) with polyethyleneimine ethoxylated (PEI) and Fe species, which demonstrated high activity during p-chlorophenol (p-ClPhOH) degradation via H2O2 from the photocatalytic process. The relationship between the catalytic efficiency and the structure was explored using different characterization methods. The Fe modification of CN was achieved through Fe–N coordination, which ensured high dispersion of Fe species and strong stability against leaching during liquid-phase reactions. The Fe modification initiated the Fenton reaction by activating H2O2 into ·OH radicals for deep degradation of p-ClPhOH. In addition, it effectively promoted light absorption and photoelectron–hole (e–h+) separation, corresponding to improved photocatalytic activity. On the other hand, PEI could significantly improve the ability of CN to generate H2O2 through visible light photocatalysis. The maximum H2O2 yield reached up to 102.6 μmol/L, which was 22 times higher than that of primitive CN. The cooperation of photocatalysis and the self-Fenton reaction has led to high-activity mineralizing organic pollutants with strong durability, indicating good potential for practical application in wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we analyze differences in fatty acid methyl ester (FAME: methyl palmitate, methyl octanoate), fatty acid ethyl ester (FAEE: ethyl laurate), and triglyceride (TG – tricaprylin) hydrodeoxygenation (HDO). These differences are attributed to chemical nature of FAME, FAEE, and TG, and different reaction rates of the initial compounds. The HDO experiments were carried out in continuous flow fixed bed reactor at 250–330 °C and 3 MPa. Ni2P supported on SiO2, SBA-15, or Al2O3 were used as catalysts. The rates of O removal for FAME, FAEE, and TG are the same for the catalyst with high acidity (Ni2P/Al2O3), but different for the catalyst with low acidity (Ni2P/SiO2). It turned out that the rate of fatty acid conversion is significantly higher at the same conditions compared to the initial esters. Thus, it was concluded that TG rapidly transforms to fatty acid and there is almost no influence of catalyst acidity on the TG HDO rate, i.e., no synergetic effect of metal and acid sites can be obtained for TG HDO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brassica napus L. is dual-purpose oilseed crop for food, feed and biofuel. Breeding for cultivars adapted to environmental stresses, especially drought and high heat stresses, is one of the strategies that has the attention of breeders. To evaluate the effects of those stresses on leaf wax accumulations, a replicated growth chamber experiment was designed to include three factors: drought (D), high heat (H) and genotypes (G). Data showed significant variations in leaf wax accumulations in response to those three factors and their combinations. For example, the accumulation of the C24 primary alcohol wax was affected by heat, drought, genotype, DxH, HxG, DxG and DxHxG, while the accumulation of the C16 fatty acid wax was affected by drought only. The results indicated that brassica leaf wax accumulation rates under those stresses are genotype dependent and suggest choosing specific parent(s) is an important factor for breeding for those stress factors. The C28 fatty acid, C29 primary alcohol and C30 alkane waxes showed abundance on brassica leaves grown under combination of drought and heat stresses, suggesting them as potential candidates for improving the stress tolerance against those intense stressors. Combination of drought and heat showed to have synergetic effects on specific brassica leaf waxes indicating the possibility to breed for both drought and heat tolerances in Brassica napus at the same time.

Objectives The aim of the article is to set the problem of forming the optimal value-oriented portfolio of the development of a complex system, taking into account the mutual influence of the components of the portfolio on each other. Material and methods The research used: project portfolio management methods; systems theory and system analysis (for the formalization of value-oriented management processes); mathematical modeling tools (for the formation of basic models of portfolio management). Results This article provides a basic methodological framework for portfolio management of organizational development. The conceptual framework for portfolio management has been formalized, where portfolio management processes are considered as a means of implementing strategic decisions. Conclusions The success of development portfolio management should not only be measured by the economic component, but also by the values that influence the sustainable development of the region. The current legal framework for the design and implementation of public projects in Ukraine is not up to date, as confirmed by the findings of international experts and domestic scientists.

Highlights The advancement and current status of dual-atom catalysts are reported. The synergistic effects exhibited by recent dual-atom catalysts in mechanistic studies are classified and summarized. Challenges and prospects of dual-atom catalysts in synthesis, characterization, applications, and theory are discussed.

Abstract Background Ovarian cancer (OC) is a prevalent malignancy in the female reproductive system, and developing effective targeted therapies for this disease remains challenging. The aim of this study was to use clinically-relevant OC models to evaluate the therapeutic effectiveness of RC48, an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) targeting HER2, either alone or in combination with the VEGFR inhibitor Cediranib Maleate (CM), for the treatment of advanced OC. Methods OC tumor specimens and cell lines were analyzed to determine HER2 and VEGFR expression by Western blot, immunocytochemistry and immunofluorescence. Moreover, the OC cell lines, cell-derived xenograft (CDX) and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models were treated with RC48 and/or CM and then subjected to cell proliferation, viability, apoptosis, and tumor growth analyses to evaluate the feasibility of combination therapy for OC both in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, RNA-Seq was performed to investigate the critical mechanism underlying the combination therapy of RC48 and CM. Results Our results demonstrated that RC48 alone effectively targeted and inhibited the growth of HER2-positive OC tumors in both cell lines and PDX models. Furthermore, the combination of RC48 and CM synergistically induced tumor regression in human OC cell lines, as well as CDX and PDX models. Mechanistically, we observed that the combination treatment inhibited the growth of OC cells involved inducing apoptosis and suppressing cell motility. RNA-seq analysis provided further mechanistic insights and revealed that co-administration of RC48 and CM downregulated multiple cancer-related pathways, including the AKT/mTOR pathway, cell cycle, and cell proliferation. Notably, our data further confirmed that the PI3K-AKT pathway played a key role in the inhibition of proliferation triggered by combinational treatment of RC48 and CM in OC cells. Conclusions These findings provide a preclinical framework supporting the potential of dual targeting HER2 and VEGFR as a promising therapeutic strategy to improve outcomes in patients with OC.

[Objective] Facing the target constraints of “carbon peak and carbon neutrality”, this paper discusses the impact of different carbon trading policy tools on the effect of pollution reduction and carbon reduction, and provides theoretical basis for the green and low-carbon transformation of regional economy. [Methods] Based on the data of 30 provinces in China’s mainland from 2003 to 2021, this study constructed a coupling coordination model incorporating CO2 and SO2, and applied a two-way fixed-effects difference-in-differences model to analyze the pollution reduction and carbon emission reduction effects of carbon trading policies and their mechanisms. Furthermore, we explored the pollution reduction and carbon emission reduction effects of carbon market policy tools. [Results] The results show that: First, carbon trading policies significantly reduced the coupling and coordination degree between carbon emissions and environmental pollution, resulting in pollution reduction and carbon emission reduction, and gradually tended towards a collaborative relationship of “high-level coupling and high-quality coordination”. Second, the results of heterogeneity test show that the impact of carbon trading policy on the coupling degree and coordination degree of carbon emissions and pollution in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangdong was greater than that in Tianjin, Hubei, Chongqing, and Fujian, and the impact on the coupling degree and coordination degree of carbon emissions and pollution in areas with relatively low carbon emissions was more significant. Meanwhile, the carbon reduction effect of carbon market policy was higher than that of pollution reduction. Finally, the pollution reduction and carbon emission reduction effects of carbon trading policies were mainly realized by carbon prices, carbon market activity, carbon market size, and punishment tools through the impact of industrial structure, energy structure, and technological progress. Various policy tools also had the effect of optimizing industrial structure, as well as reducing differences between industries, but they did not significantly improve the cleanliness level of energy structure and promote the level of green technology innovation. [Conclusion] In order to achieve a win-win situation of synergetic control of environmental pollution and carbon emissions, it is necessary to take the following measures: Establishing and improving a collaborative control system for carbon emissions and environmental pollution, improving green low-carbon technologies and pollution control technologies, achieving industrial structure upgrading and energy structure transformation, expanding the carbon market scale, and improving carbon market policy tools.

TaC enhancement particles and Re alloy were used to improve the strength and ductility of the tungsten alloy. The synergetic effect of TaC addition and Re alloying on relative density, microstructure, and mechanical properties of tungsten alloy were investigated. The results indicated that a W-based composite with 2.5 wt% TaC addition and 25 wt% Re alloying exhibited yield stress of 1.23 GPa, the ultimate compressive stress of 2.86 GPa, bending strength of 1.30 GPa and strain capacity of 42 %, which was increased by 114 %, 140 %, 226 %, and 133 % than those of pure W. Further analysis revealed that the grain boundary purification, grain refinement, and kinematic strain gradient contribution because of the addition of TaC, lattice distortion, and the generation of dislocations because of the addition of Re alloying are the main strengthening mechanisms in W–TaC-Re composite.

Anthracene (ANT) is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) that is abundantly found in the soil of industrial areas. ANT-contaminated soils are a major concern in industrial zones causing serious environmental and health problems. This research aims to remediate ANT-contaminated soil using ultrasonic irradiation. An industrial zone located in the southern part of Iran, was selected as the case study. The concentration of ANT, ultrasonic power, process time, and water content of soil (water volume) were selected as operational parameters. Based on the authors' best information, this study is pioneering in its exploration of the simultaneous effects of the involved operational parameters, including their antagonistic and synergistic interactions. Response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to model the remediation process and predict the removal efficiency. The developed model was used to determine the optimal values of operational parameters to achieve the highest removal efficiency. The results indicated a high synergistic effect between ultrasonic power and water volume. Increasing the water volume from 100 to 250 ml while maintaining the power level at 100 W led to an enhancement in removal efficiency, with values progressing from 39 to 60%. A quadratic equation (a statistical model) was found to be suitable for fitting the data or describing the variations associated with the resulting removal efficiency. The determined optimum conditions were an ultrasonic power of 163 W, a water volume of 225 ml per 100 g of soil, an ANT concentration of 315 mg/kg, and a process time of 0.8 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The objectives of the study are to investigate the synergistic effect of oxaliplatin (oxa) and punicalagin (pun) on the death of colon cancer cells (Caco-2) by apoptosis and autophagy. Methods: The effects of the combined treatments (5 µM oxa + 50 µM pun, 5 µM oxa + 75 µM pun, 20 µM oxa + 50 µM pun, and 5 µM oxa + 75 µM pun) were compared with untreated Caco2 cells (control) or cells treated with oxa alone. Apoptosis was detected using an Annex in V FITC flow cytometry assay and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase cleavage by western blotting. Light chain 3 was detected by western blotting as an autophagy marker. Results: The combined treatments significantly increased the number of apoptotic cells in comparison to untreated cells or cells treated with oxa alone. By contrast, the combined treatments had no significant effect on autophagy. Conclusion: The combined treatment significantly promoted cell death through apoptosis while maintaining a basal level of autophagy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the analysis of the dynamics of implementation of public-private partnership (PPP) projects in Ukraine, key problems have been identified and its priorities in financial support for the recovery of the native energy sector have been determined. It is appointed that PPP concession agreements are the main mechanisms for attracting investment in the global electric power industry. The expediency of using the concession model on BOT terms for the implementation of large projects in the energy sector is substantiated, which will contribute to the intensification of investment attraction and will allow to distribute risks between the state and business. Recommendations on the formation of an information platform for participants in the implementation of PPP projects on the basis of disclosure of information on the effectiveness of concession operations in accounting and financial statements have been developed. The tools for the formation of the financial mechanism of public-private partnership, where the priority is budget and venture financing, are substantiated. To make decisions on the implementation of PPP investment projects, an approach to assessing the financial support of project initiatives is recommended, the basis of which is the proposed criteria for compliance with financial security, the choice of funding sources, indicators of scenario analysis and efficiency. The proposed methodical approach to assessing the effectiveness of PPP allows us to assess the synergistic effect, which reflects the totality of economic, social and environmental effects. The formulated recommendations for improving the relationship between the state and business will contribute to the intensification of the attraction of private investment resources on the basis of PPPs for the restoration of the energy sector in Ukraine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to the tunable compositions and versatile functionality, the development of eco-friendly metal-phenolic coordination crystals derivatives is highly anticipated for electromagnetic wave absorption. In this study, three kinds of magnetic hollow carbon spheres (HCSs) with macro-meso-microporous characteristics, including Fe/HCS, Co/HCS, and CoNi/HCS, are successfully fabricated via the co-operative hard template and self-assembling process, in which magnetic particles are encapsulated in carbon shell matrix after the pyrolysis of metal–polyphenol coordination crystals and further subsequent template removal. On the one hand, hierarchical macro-meso-micropores effectively balance the impedance gap between absorbers and air and introduce structural defects or distortion, leading to matched impedance and enhanced dipolar/defect polarization. On the other hand, wrapped magnetic particles provide uncountable hetero-interfaces and induce ferromagnetic resonance, resulting in strengthened interfacial polarization and additional magnetic loss. In particular, enhanced minimum reflection loss (RL,min) and broadband effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) are achieved with only 10 wt.% filler loading. Specifically, the RL,min and EAB values are −57.5 dB and 7.2 GHz for Fe/HCS, −50.0 dB and 5.8 GHz for Co/HCS, and −52.1 dB and 6.7 GHz for CoNi/HCS, respectively. Moreover, this work provides us a modular-assembly strategy to regulate the hollow cavity of absorbers and simultaneously manipulates the chemical components of absorbers to regulate electromagnetic wave absorption performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-energy ball milling was applied to produce nanocrystalline MgH2-FeTi powder composites. In order to achieve a remarkable synergetic effect between the two materials, the amount of the FeTi catalyst was chosen to be 40 wt.%, 50 wt.% and 60 wt.%. The morphology and microstructure of the as-milled powders were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction, respectively. The evaluation of the diffraction profiles by the Convolutional Multiple Whole Profile fitting algorithm provided a detailed microstructural characterization of the coherently scattering α-MgH2 crystallites. Differential scanning calorimetry experiments revealed two overlapping endotherms corresponding to the dehydrogenation of metastable γ-MgH2 and stable α-MgH2 hydrides. Isothermal hydrogen-sorption experiments were carried out in a Sieverts-type apparatus. It was established that the MgH2-40 wt.% FeTi powder is capable of absorbing 5.8 wt.% hydrogen, while extraordinary absorption kinetics were observed for the MgH2-50 wt.% FeTi alloy, i.e., 3.3 wt.% H2 is absorbed after 100 s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalytic degradation technique is an effective route for degrading the polluting sources by using photocatalysts. In recent years, van der Waals material based photocatalysts has been drawing more and more attention due to their excellent photodegradation performance. In this research, we have developed a type of highly efficient layered photocatalyst, CdPS 3 nano flakes prepared by the liquid-phase exfoliation method. We compared different photodegradation rates of rhodamine B (RhB) by using photocatalysts of CdPS 3 ground bulk powder and CdPS 3 nanosheets exfoliated by three different dispersants, i.e., N-methyl pyrrolidone (NMP), deionized (DI) water and sodium cholate (SC). For a complete degradation of RhB (80 mL, 100 mg/L), the SC-exfoliated CdPS 3 nanosheets exhibited the highest degradation efficiency within 15 min. These SC-exfoliated nanosheets also demonstrated good potential for degrading methylene blue (MB), potassium dichromate (PD), tetracycline (TC) and methyl orange (MO). The strong dark adsorption and dye-sensitized photocatalytic properties of CdPS 3 nanosheets could both contribute to high degradation efficiencies of RhB and MB, synergistically. Capture experiments revealed that superoxide radicals dominated the degradations of these pollutants. Additionally, for PD and MO, hydroxyl radicals and holes were also important active species in the photodegradation redox reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The formation of a development portfolio is one of the key challenges facing any level of system. The aim of the article is to present a model of optimal value-oriented portfolio formation for the development of a complex system, taking into account mutual influence of portfolio components on each other. It analyses the methodology of portfolio development management of organizations, considers different approaches to forming a portfolio of projects, proposes the formation of a portfolio of organization development based on the value-oriented approach, considers multi-criteria model of project selection in the organization development portfolio, taking into account the mutual influence of the components of the portfolio on each other. As the basic method of forming a portfolio of regional community development using the value-based approach, taking into account the existing limits on the total value of the portfolio in the computable period is proposed. The problems of incomplete application of the portfolio management methodology in the system of public development management in Ukraine were reflected. The paper determined that although the project approach is increasingly used in Ukraine to manage the development of territories, for many acute problems portfolio development management is not used. The necessity of managers training for portfolio management of regional systems development has been substantiated. Suggested the use of value-oriented methodology of project management to manage regional development, which significantly improves the quality of planning and effectiveness of the implementation of development strategy through projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]