This cluster of papers explores the connections between gamma-ray bursts, supernovae, neutron stars, kilonova, and nucleosynthesis. It covers topics such as the physics of gamma-ray bursts, progenitors of core-collapse supernovae, electromagnetic counterparts of compact object mergers, and the association of gamma-ray bursts with supernovae. The cluster also delves into the impact of high-mass stars, gravitational waves, and type Ia supernovae on cosmic explosions.