The ongoing railway reforms in Ukraine are crucial for the country’s integration into the European Union’s transportation network. A major challenge lies in the difference in track gauge widths: Ukraine predominantly uses a 1520 mm gauge, while European countries utilize a 1435 mm gauge. This 85 mm difference presents significant logistical and operational barriers, hindering smooth cross-border trade and travel. The study examines the current state of Ukraine’s railway system, highlighting the urgent need for infrastructure modernization to meet European standards. Methods include a comparative analysis of Ukraine’s railway network with those of EU member states, focusing on integration challenges and potential solutions. Results indicate that aligning Ukraine’s railway with European standards could substantially enhance connectivity, reduce transit times, and foster economic growth. However, “Ukrzaliznytsia’s” slow adaptation to these necessary changes is a major roadblock. The study concludes that the construction of a standard-gauge railway linking Ukraine to the EU is vital not only for improving trade routes but also for supporting Ukraine’s broader political and economic aspirations towards EU membership. Circular economy principles, such as resource optimisation, extending the life cycle of existing infrastructure and reusing materials from dismantled railway facilities, can offer a cost-effective and sustainable approach. This infrastructural change will serve as a catalyst for deeper integration, strengthening Ukraine’s position within the European transportation network.

The covid-19 pandemic has adversely affected the sustainability of micro and small enterprises (MSEs), with a particularly pronounced impact in Central Java. Entrepreneurs who struggle to adapt to reduced consumer purchasing power and the increasing reliance on digital technology are at heightened risk of business closure. Despite these challenges, inclusivity remains a crucial element for MSEs in fostering local economic development. Accordingly, this study seeks to examine the role of inclusivity in the sustainability of MSEs that are based on digital technology. Data were collected through the use of questionnaires and focus group discussions. Respondents were digital-based MSEs entrepreneurs from five selected regions, with Central Java having the largest number of digital media users. Key informants included experts from Diponegoro University, the International Council of Small Business (ICSB), the Department of Cooperatives and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises at the provincial and district levels, and non-governmental organizations. The collected data was analyzed using the Rapid Appraisal for Micro and Small Enterprises (Rap-MSE’s) method. To assess the sustainability status, the study utilized several dimensions, including economic, environmental, social, institutional, technological, and inclusivity factors. Both multidimensional and individual analyses indicated that the sustainability status was relatively robust. MSEs that integrated digital technology into their operations were able to withstand the challenges posed by covid-19 and adapt to the new normal. In conclusion, the inclusivity dimension in the adoption of digital technology has gained increased importance in driving local economic development.

New telechelic polymers functionalized with terminal ethyl xanthate or vinyl groups were synthesized via cationic ring-opening polymerization (CROP). The polymerization of 2-ethyl-2-oxazoline (Etoxa) and 2-methoxycarbonylethyl-2-oxazoline (Esteroxa) was initiated by 1,4-trans-dibromobutene in acetonitrile at 78 ℃, with termination using either potassium ethyl xanthate or 4-vinylbenzyl-piperazine. Structural characterization by 1H and 13C NMR and FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the telechelic architecture. 1H NMR analysis revealed degrees of polymerization (DP) of 24–29 for ethyl xanthate-terminated polymers and 22–23 for vinyl-terminated polymers, consistent with theoretical values. The molar compositions of Etoxa and Esteroxa in all telechelic polymers matched the initial monomer feed ratios. End-group functionalization efficiency was quantified as follows: Ethyl xanthate-terminated polymers: 64%–82%, and vinyl-terminated polymers: 69% and 98% (for respective batches).

The boom in nanotechnology over the last three decades is undeniable. Responsible for this interest in nanomaterials are mainly the nanostructured forms of carbon, since historically they were the ones that inaugurated the study of nanomaterials with the discovery of fullerenes in 1985 and carbon nanotubes in 1991. Although a variety of techniques exist to produce these materials, chemical vapor deposition (CVD) is particularly valuable as it allows the production of a wide variety of carbon nanostructures, is versatile, scalable, easy to implement and relatively low cost. This review article highlights the importance of CVD and details its principles, operating conditions and parameters, as well as its main variants. A description of the technique used to produce fullerenes, nano-ceramics, carbon nanotubes, nanospheres, graphene and others is made, emphasizing the specific parameters for each synthesis.

This study investigates the impact of toll road construction on 59 micro, small, and medium enterprises in Kampar, Pekanbaru, and Dumai cities. The research aims to analyze the economic and environmental effects of infrastructure expansion on businesses’ profitability and sustainability, providing insights for policymakers and stakeholders to develop mitigation strategies to support MSMEs amidst ongoing infrastructure development. Structural equation modeling, spatial environmental impact analysis, and qualitative data analysis using five-level qualitative data analysis (FL-QDA) were all used together in a mixed-methods approach. Data collection involved observations, interviews, questionnaires, and geospatial analysis, including the use of a Geo-Information System (GIS) supported by drone reconnaissance to map affected areas. The study revealed that the toll roads significantly enhanced connectivity and economic growth but also negatively impacted local economies (β = 0.32, R² = 0.60, P-value ≤ 0.05). and the environment (β = 0.34, P-value ≤ 0.05), as 49% of respondents experienced a 50% decrease in profitability. To mitigate the risk of impact, policymakers should prioritize the principle of prudence to evaluate the significance of mitigation policy implementation (β = 0.144, P-value ≥ 0.05). In a nutshell, toll road construction significantly impacts MSMEs’ business continuity, necessitating an innovative strategy involving monitoring and participatory approaches to mitigate risk.

Natural Protected Areas (NPAs) are critical for biodiversity conservation and ecological balance. These areas are not only refuges for wildlife but also pivotal in promoting sustainable tourism. Geoparks, a unique subset of NPAs, emphasize geological heritage, offering distinctive educational and recreational opportunities. This article explores the significance of Geoparks in Portugal for geotourism and assesses the accessible digital communication strategies of Portuguese Geoparks, emphasizing the analysis of pedagogical concerns. The study highlights the importance of online engagement in enhancing visitor experiences and promoting sustainable tourism practices.