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Gdańsk University of Technology

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  • The Effect of Titanium Oxyfluoride Morphology on Photocatalytic Activity of Fluorine-Doped Titanium(IV) Oxide
    • Marta Kowalkińska
    • Jakub Karczewski
    • Anna Zielińska-Jurek
    2023 Full text Crystals

    Titanium oxyfluoride (TiOF2) is a metastable product that can be obtained in a fluorine-rich environment. This material can also be a valuable precursor in the synthesis of titanium(IV) oxide (TiO2). However, the effect of TiOF2 morphology on the physicochemical properties of TiO2 has not been studied so far. In this work, single-phase TiOF2 was prepared by a solvothermal method. The as-synthesized samples exhibited a variety of morphologies, including different shapes and crystallite sizes. These materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) combined with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), surface area measurements, thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) and UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DR/UV–vis). Furthermore, TiOF2 samples were used as precursors in the synthesis of fluorine-doped titanium(IV) oxide and applied in photocatalytic phenol degradation under UV-vis light. The experiments showed that the crystallite size of the precursor, as well as the number of fluoride ions used in the synthesis, were the predominant factors that affected the photocatalytic activity of the final photocatalyst.

  • The effects of gas exposure on the graphene/AlGaN/GaN heterostructure under UV irradiation
    • Katarzyna Drozdowska
    • Sergey Rumyantsev
    • Janusz Smulko
    • Andrzej Kwiatkowski
    • Pavlo Sai
    • Paweł Prystawko
    • Aleksandra Krajewska
    • Grzegorz Cywiński
    2023 Full text SENSORS AND ACTUATORS B-CHEMICAL

    This work demonstrates a graphene/AlGaN/GaN sensing device with two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) toward nitrogen dioxide (NO2), tetrahydrofuran, and acetone detection under UV light irradiation. We propose combining measurements of the DC characteristics with a fluctuation-enhanced sensing method to provide insight into the gas detection mechanisms in the synergistic structure of highly stable GaN and gas-sensitive graphene. Both DC and low-frequency noise studies reveal the impact of UV irradiation (275 nm) on the GaN-based field-effect transistor (FET). Gas detection improves under UV light with higher differentiability between selected concentrations of inorganic (NO2) gas and the possibility of discrimination between weakly adsorbing organic species (tetrahydrofuran and acetone). Time-domain experiments confirm the stability and reversibility of sensor (short-time and long-time) responses and reduced time drift after employing UV light. Features observed in the 1/f noise spectra may indicate the high impact of the irradiation on the trapping states in the GaN-based heterostructure, which further modulates the fluctuations of the channel carriers in our device. Our findings broaden the view on AlGaN/GaN heterostructures modulated with a graphene gate for gas sensing purposes, including strongly binding inorganic gas and weakly adsorbing organic species.

  • The effects of the IM1-12Br ionic liquid and the oxytetracycline mixture on selected marine and brackish microorganisms
    • Lilianna Sharma
    • Błażej Kudłak
    • Grzegorz Siedlewicz
    • Ksenia Pazdro
    2023 SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT

    The number of applications and commercialized processes utilizing ionic liquids has been increasing, and it is anticipated that this trend will persist and even intensify in the future. Ionic liquids possess desirable characteristics, such as low vapor pressure, good water solubility, amphiphilicity, and stability. Nevertheless, these properties can influence their environmental behavior, resulting in resistance to biotic and abiotic degradation and subsequent water contamination with more harmful derivatives. However, there is a notable scarcity of data regarding the impact of mixtures comprising ionic liquids and other micropollutants. Identifying potential potentiation of ionic liquids (Ils) toxicity in the presence of other xenobiotics is a proactive risk assessment measure. Therefore, the study aims to fill an important knowledge gap and identify possible interactions between imidazolium-based ionic liquid (IM1–12Br) and the common antibiotic oxytetracycline (OXTC). During 11-day experiments, selected marine, brackish and freshwater microorganisms (diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum, cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa and green algae Chlorella vulgaris) were exposed to binary mixtures of target substances. The assessed responses encompassed chlorophyll a kinetic parameters related to photosynthesis efficiency, as well as pigment concentrations, specifically phycobilin content. Additionally, the impact on the luminescent marine bacterium Aliivibrio fischeri has been evaluated. Significant effects on the growth, photosynthetic processes, and pigment content were observed in all the targeted microorganisms. The concentration addition (CA) and independent action (IA) mathematical models followed by the Model Deviation Ratio (MDR) evaluation enabled the identification of mainly synergistic interactions in the studied mixtures.

  • The elasto-plastic numerical study of crack initiation in notched PMMA specimens under uniaxial loading conditions – Tension and torsion
    • Elżbieta Bura
    • Andrzej Seweryn
    2023 Full text THEORETICAL AND APPLIED FRACTURE MECHANICS

    This paper presents the results of FEM numerical calculations aimed at describing the plastic strain and stress fields under critical loading conditions: tensile force or torsional moment. The calculations were carried out with reference to the results of experimental tensile and torsional tests of flat PMMA specimens weakened with V-notches of different root radii: 0.5, 2 and 10 mm. The procedure for conducting nonlinear numerical analyses is described, including the determination of the actual hardening curve by the hybrid method. A high level of consistency between the results of the experimental and numerical calculations was obtained through description of PMMA with the elastic-plastic material model. The points of occurrence of stress maxima and plastic strain were indicated, which were taken as potential crack initiation sites. On the basis of the stress and plastic strain values measured at the critical points, a stress-strain fracture criterion was formulated, which was then positively verified.

  • The Employment of Ukrainians as an Opportunity to Fill the Labour Market in Poland – Selected Issues
    • Krystyna Gomółka
    • Małgorzata Gawrycka
    • Marta Kuc-Czarnecka
    2023 Full text STUDIA EUROPEJSKIE

    The labour market in Poland has undergone signifi cant transformations over the past two decades. The observed changes have been infl uenced by various factors related to, among other things, the possibility of free movement of the population resulting from membership of EU structures, demographic changes, technological changes, and the automation and robotisation of production processes. Demographic change is becoming a signifi cant challenge, highlighting the shortage of workers with different qualifi cations and competencies in the labour market in various sectors of the national economy. This paper aims to indicate to what extent Ukrainian citizens can fi ll the gaps in Poland’s emerging labour market. To that end, a survey was conducted in the Qualtrics programme in MayJune 2022 among Ukrainian citizens who arrived in Poland before 24th February 2022, i.e., before the outbreak of the war and who were registered in the Gremi Personal database. This particular company provides support connected to employment for Ukrainians. Due to the non-probabilistic sampling technique, the results cannot be generalised with regard to the entire population. To analyse the results, descriptive statistics were used to examine the population structure and determine the signifi cance of the characteristics studied and the correlation between them. The research shows that labour shortages in Poland’s labour market can be compensated to some extent by employing migrants from, for example, Ukraine. The commencement of the proper research was preceded by the preparation of a pilot study and the collection and analysis of statistical data related to the situation on the Polish labour market, taking into account the level and structure of employment and an indication of shortages in the labour market when the research was prepared, and the fact that complete statistical data ended in 2020, hence the decision to include this research period in the analyses.

  • The energy concept of money
    • Oleksandr Melnychenko
    2023 Full text Zeszyty Naukowe. Organizacja i Zarządzanie / Politechnika Śląska

    Purpose: This paper aims to provide the literature review seeking an answer whether energy can be used as a universal equivalent instead of money. Methodology: The author conducted a review of available literature and data sources related to the money theory and energy concept of money. Findings: It was found that the definition of energy as a general equivalent has a contextual and dynamic nature, and this field’s consolidation and logical expansion require a conceptual review. In this study, we talk about the basic principles of the energy concept of money: origin, recognition, and circulation. Throughout this paper, we explore key aspects of this new agenda, demonstrating that energy is at the heart of money circulation. Research limitations: It is suggested three areas for future research: quantifying the stability of energy price in the context of fiat money in dynamics, technological implementation of transactions, and the development of accounting technologies. Practical implications: Consolidating the available literature and providing suggestions on how money theory can be developed in light of the current energy challenges. The author’s approach the energy concept of money from an interdisciplinary perspective, including knowledge of economics, business, accounting, payment systems, law, and philosophy, to reflect on their own experiences. The energy concept of money in this study refers to the use of energy in a broad sense as a universal equivalent, the role of which is played today by money. Originality: In this paper, the author seeks to contribute to a deeper understanding of the energy basis of money by exploring the conceptual and empirical relationship between money, trust, and energy.

  • The environmental dimension of city dwellers’ quality of life and the city’s social and spatial variability
    • Maciej Brosz
    • Małgorzata Dymnicka
    • Iwona Sagan
    • Jarosław Załęcki
    2023 Full text Miscellanea Geographica : Regional Studies on Development

    The purpose of this paper is to attempt an analysis of the environmental dimension of the quality of life using quantitative surveys conducted among residents of Gdańsk. In the paper, we make reference to the theoretical assumptions ensuing from the concept of a comprehensive and integrated approach to the development of the urban environment, whilst noting the profound impact humans bring to their evaluation of the environmental components. The paper focuses primarily on the inhabitants’ attitudes to the environmental values of their place of residence in relation to things such as the condition and accessibility of green areas, air quality, potable water quality and noise intensity. The surveys indicate that views on the city’s environmental values are determined by numerous factors, such as the city’s territorial structure (districts) and its demographic structure (sex, age), and psychosocial features, such as a subjective sense of mental well-being.

  • THE ESSENCE OF THE TRANSFORMATION OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC RELATIONS IN THE NATIONAL ECONOMY: THEORETICAL AND METHODOLOGICAL ASPECT
    • Piotr Buła
    • Oleksandr Melnychenko
    2023 Full text Acta Universitatis Lodziensis. Folia Geographica Socio-Oeconomica

    The article is devoted to a thorough study of the theoretical and methodological foundations of the essence of the transformation of socio-economic relations of the national economy. Based on the study of scientific sources, a proper definition of the concept of "transformation of socio-economic relations" was formed. It is proposed to consider transformational processes from the point of view of their direct or indirect impact on other sectors and the economy in general. The need to understand and perceive the essence of transformation from the point of view of the transformation of socio-economic relations as such is well-founded. The article formulates the author's approaches to identifying the types of transformation of socio-economic relations, it’s possible and confirmed forms of manifestation, basic characteristics and features. The author's understanding of the concept of transformation potential of socio-economic relations of the national economy and the transformation cycle is outlined. A vision of the intensity, efficiency and frequency of transformational changes and the limits of transformation was formed. Characterization of the period and stages of transformational changes that lead to socio-economic shocks and cause socio-economic instability, periods of fluctuations, including ups and downs, socio-economic crisis, transformational trap is made

  • The evolution of education spaces - from plan as generator to regenerative architecture, virtual rooms and green campuses
    • Jakub Szczepański
    • Lucyna Nyka
    2023 Full text Global Journal of Engineering Education

    The study programmes are often considered the main formative factors in the process of educating future architects. Another highly influential component is the architectural characteristics of learning spaces, and consequently the impact of the physical built environment on the quality of education has been widely discussed. However, not often do we realise that the characteristics of education spaces correlate with the organisational structure of schools of architecture. Thus, the purpose of this article is to identify the trends in the evolution of educational spaces for training future architects, and investigate how much their characteristics have always been dependent on the architectural theories of the time and correlated with the organisational structure of the schools of architecture. The conclusions allow to draw a postulate that not only spaces ought to be in a focus of prospective future transformations, but also re-thinking the organisational structure of the schools of architecture.

  • The Finite Elements Method application to assesment the impact of turbulence generated by wind turbines on their lacation inclose proximity of overhead high voltage power transmissionlines
    • Waldemar Kamrat
    2023 Gaz, Woda i Technika Sanitarna

    The paper presents selected aspects of construction of wind turbines location concerning aerodynamic impact on power lines. Reaserch is based on the source data concerning the aerodynamic impact of a wind farm consisting of 8 turbines and 400 kV power line, an analysis of the possibility of wind farm locating in the immediate vicinity of the line was carried out. There are serious problems with locating higher capacity wind farms in the context of their connection to the transmission grid. Reaserch facilitate the wind farm location in proximity of an overhead high-voltage power transmission line maintaining safety and efficiency.

  • The fracture behaviour of notched PMMA specimens under simple loading conditions – Tension and torsion experimental tests
    • Elżbieta Bura
    • Andrzej Seweryn
    2023 Full text ENGINEERING FAILURE ANALYSIS

    This paper presents the results of experimental testing of flat PMMA specimens during uniaxial loading conditions. Two separate tests were conducted: tensile and torsion. The specimens were weakened with V-type edge notches with different root radii: 0.5; 2 and 10 mm. The specimens were made in two thickness variants: 5 and 15 mm. Monotonic tensile and torsion tests were carried out while keeping the averaged strain rate constant, due to the strong influence of this parameter on the PMMA behaviour. The procedure for non-contact measurement of the torsion angle using the ARAMIS 3D 4 M vision system is described. A set of PHANTOM cameras was used in the study, thanks to which all fracture processes were recorded. The processing of the obtained recordings made it possible to precisely indicate the moment (critical value of tensile force, torsional moment) and the location of crack initiation, as well as determine the nature of their evolution. Microscopic observations showed the structure of the failure surface and clearly indicated the different initiation sites observed for the two simple loading states. Different crack initiation angles were indicated, depending on the type of test conducted, as well as the notch root radius. The material in the article provides a starting point for numerical modelling of the fracture processes of notched elements and verifying the fracture criteria.

  • The Idea of a Student Research Project as a Method of Preparing a Student for Professional and Scientific Work
    • Krzysztof Nowicki
    • Mariusz Kaczmarek
    • Paweł Czarnul
    2023 Full text

    In the paper we present the idea and implementation of a student research project course within the master’s program at the Faculty of Electronics, Telecommunications and Informatics, Gdansk Tech. It aims at preparing students for performing research and scientific tasks in future professional work. We outline the evolution from group projects into research project and the current deployment of both at bachelor’s and master’s levels respectively, management of projects i.e. steps, reporting and monitoring at both faculty and individual project’s levels within our custom-built Research Project System (RPS). We further elaborate on adopted formal settings and agreements especially considering the possibility of external clients taking part in the projects. Methodology of conducting and several examples of awarded projects are presented along with statistics on the number of submitted/conducted projects as well as those finalized with actual submitted/published research papers/patents proving actual (inter)national impact of the course.

  • The Idea of Using Adhesive Bonds in Shaping of Cold-formed Thin-walled Beam-columns
    • Marcin Kujawa
    • Antonio Cazzani
    • Łukasz Smakosz
    • Violetta Konopińska-Zmysłowska
    • Karol Winkelmann
    • Faizullah Jan
    • Czesław Szymczak
    2023

    The chapter concerns the idea of using adhesive bonds in the shaping of cold-formed thin-walled beam-columns. The idea of adhesive-bonded connections is not new but is unlikely to have been used in the design and shaping of thin-walled beam-columns in civil engineering up to date. Metal bar structures, including (due to economic reasons) thin-walled structures, are the most common and effective means to build engineering superstructures/loadbearing structures. Over the years, classical techniques of connection between individual structural elements, such as bolting or welding, have mainly been used. However, the classical types of connections have their disadvantages, eliminable by using less conventional solutions, e.g. the adhesive-bonded connections. The use of structural adhesives in engineering, particularly in metal construction design, unfortunately still raises questions about their durability and load-bearing capacity. An important issue in the case of bonded structures is the effect of creep on the behavior of such joints. These issues undoubtedly require further research in the context of bonded joints. The topic still needs fundamental research of empirical and theoretical nature that will contribute to the acquisition of new knowledge on the mechanical phenomena occurring in adhesively bonded metal structures. The authors also expect that in the long run, the idea will be widely used in modern-day civil engineering.

  • The Impact of Contemporary Technology on Shell Structures: Material and Light Solutions
    • Jan Cudzik
    • Aygün Atasoy
    2023 Full text Journal of the International Association for Shell and Spatial Structures

    With the development of technology and the materials used, shell structures have developed into more complex forms. This article is a comparison between contemporary and historical shell structures. The change is an effect of the evolution in the design process that is the result of parametric design thinking. The study aims to investigate the impact of new technologies on the architectural form of shell structures. Was there any pivot point in the history of shell structures? The secondary objective of the study is the focus on lighting in such forms and their evolution with the view of the evolution of lighting solutions applied in architecture. With the use of new technologies, shell structures can have a new form and complex detail. They may vary in scale from small objects to large-scale structures.

  • The impact of filler thermomechanical modifications on static and dynamic mechanical performance of flexible foamed polyurethane/ground tire rubber/zinc borate composites
    • Aleksander Hejna
    • Paulina Kosmela
    • Adam Olszewski
    • Krzysztof Formela
    • Łukasz Zedler
    • Adam Piasecki
    • Katarzyna Skórczewska
    2023 Composites Theory and Practice

    The rapid development of the automotive industry is very beneficial to many aspects of human life, but it is also a very significant environmental burden. The most straightforward impact is related to the generation of exhaust, but the management of post-consumer car parts is also a major challenge. Among them, waste tires are very burdensome due to their enormous numbers. Therefore, it is essential to develop novel, environmentally friendly methods for their disposal, which would reduce their environmental impacts. One of the most promising approaches is shredding, resulting in the generation of ground tire rubber (GTR), which can be introduced into polymeric materials as a filler. The presented work is related to the thermomechanical treatment of GTR in a twin-screw extruder assisted by zinc borate (ZB), whose incorporation is aimed to increase interparticle friction within the extruder barrel. The impact of the treatment conditions on the particle size and surface development of the GTR/ZB compositions was evaluated. Modified GTR was introduced into flexible polyurethane (PU) foams, and the impact on the static and dynamic mechanical performance of the resulting composites was investigated. Increasing the treatment temperature occurred to have an adverse effect on the tensile performance of the composites due to the agglomeration of GTR particles limiting the efficiency of stress transfer, which was also confirmed by dynamic mechanical analysis. On the other hand, increasing the ZB share in the GTR/ZB compositions limited PU disruptions related to the reactivity of the GTR functional groups with isocyanates, which enhanced the mechanical performance of the composites. It was proven that the proposed method of GTR thermomechanical treatment assisted by ZB might benefit the performance of flexible PU foamed composites, which could broaden the application range of GTR and provide novel ways for its efficient utilization

  • The Impact of Generative AI and ChatGPT on Creating Digital Advertising Campaigns
    • Edyta Gołąb-Andrzejak
    2023 CYBERNETICS AND SYSTEMS

    The use of AI-based solutions is currently discussed in relation to various industries. The proliferation of tools based on generative artificial intelligence (GAI), including the emergence of ChatGPT, has resulted in testing as a first step and implementations in further areas of business life, including marketing, as a second step. Still only a few studies have analysed and evaluated specific solutions for different areas of marketing, including advert design. In order to fill this gap, areas where GAI and ChatGPT are used during the various stages of creating a digital advertising campaign have been identified. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to investigate the impact of GAI and ChatGPT on theory and practice on different stages of the digital advertising campaign building process. This objective is followed by a research question: how can marketers use GAI and ChatGPT to create an effective digital advertising campaign? The process of building a digital advertising campaign should be considered and analysed in terms of the impact of using GAI and ChatGPT technology and, at the same time, the role played by marketers at each stage and their contribution to this process in collaboration with GAI-based tools. This article is intended as a preliminary exploration of the impact of using GAI and ChatGPT on the digital marketing campaign building process. Therefore, the methodology applied includes critical literature analysis, secondary data analysis and individual in depth interview (IDI) with an expert (CEO of a creative agency). This represents a first step in the study, to be followed by in-depth empirical research (qualitative as well as quantitative) to verify and develop the conclusions drawn. The article analyses the impact of using generative AI and ChatGPT on the process of creating an advertising campaign in digital media from a theoretical and practical point of view. Theoretical and managerial implications are also presented.

  • The impact of hydrological research, municipal authorities, and residents on rainwater management in Gdańsk (Poland) in the process of adapting the city to climate change
    • Michał Szydłowski
    • Khansa Gulshad
    • Andam Mustafa
    • Wojciech Szpakowski
    2023 Full text Acta Scientiarum Polonorum Formatio Circumiectus

    Aim of the study The city of Gdańsk faces changing climatic conditions that result in a higher frequency of extreme weather events. In response to the increasingly frequent appearance of flash floods, scientific research was carried out on changes in the probability of the occurrence of maximum daily precipitation in Gdańsk. The purpose of this paper is to show the role of hydrological research (science), decisions of local authorities and the engagement of residents in the process of adapting Gdańsk to climate change. Material and methods The hydrological analysis was carried out using rainfall observations from the Gdańsk Rębiechowo station (1974-2021). Log-normal distribution was used as a statistical model for the precipitation probability distribution. To show the role of the city authorities’ decisions, the methodology developed and used by Gdańsk Water company for rainwater management was presented. To emphasize the importance of city residents in climate adaptation process, the methods adopted by city authorities to involve citizens in the advisory process are discussed, namely Civic Panels and the Gdańsk Climate Change Forum. Results and conclusions The probability distributions of maximum precipitation for different periods were developed, showing a substantial increase of precipitation with a probability of p=1%. Consequently, changes were introduced in the rainwater management practices by the company Gdańsk Water. Being aware of rising flood hazard, Gdańsk City Hall has embraced a plan for adapting the city to climatic changes by 2030. The local authorities decided to involve citizens in the decision-making process. To this end, discussion panels were organized, and the Gdańsk Climate Change Forum was initiated.

  • The implementation of green transformation through clusters
    • Anna Lis
    • Marta Mackiewicz
    2023 ECOLOGICAL ECONOMICS

    The paper addresses a poorly documented issue in the literature, namely the role of clusters in green transformation, including processes related to green, low-carbon, and circular economies. The purpose was to identify and understand the practices of clusters in this area. The adopted mixed research strategy consisted of both qualitative and quantitative research. Both research phases were conducted in a group of Polish Key National Clusters. Through qualitative research, the authors abductively identified practices that are vital for green transformation and categorized them into three thematic areas: Integration, Access to resources, and Education and awareness building. On this basis, the authors developed a method to measure the clusters’ level of advancement in green practices, which was used in quantitative research. The results show that the surveyed clusters undertake a number of practices to promote green transformation. They are active in each of the distinguished areas and also engage in its most demanding forms. The study sheds new light on the concept of the clusters, showing how such organizations can be used as agents of change in favor of green transformation.

  • The importance of anchoring ligands of binuclear sensitizers on electron transfer processes and photovoltaic action in dye-sensitized solar cells
    • Aleksandra Bartkowiak
    • Oleksandr Korolevych
    • Błażej Gierczyk
    • Daniel Pelczarski
    • Alberto Bossi
    • Maciej Klein
    • Łukasz Popenda
    • Waldemar Stampor
    • Małgorzata Makowska-janusik
    • Maciej Zalas
    2023 Full text Scientific Reports

    The relatively low photon-to-current conversion efficiency of dye-sensitized solar cells is their major drawback limiting widespread application. Light harvesting, followed by a series of electron transfer processes, is the critical step in photocurrent generation. An in-depth understanding and fine optimization of those processes are crucial to enhance cell performance. In this work, we synthesize two new bi-ruthenium sensitizers with extended anchoring ligands to gain insight into underlying processes determining photovoltaic action mechanisms. The structure of the compounds has been confirmed, and their properties have been thoroughly examined by various techniques such as NMR, IR, elemental analysis UV–Vis, cyclic voltammetry, and electroabsorption. The experimental characterization has been supported and developed via extensive quantum-chemical calculations, giving a broad view of the presented molecules’ properties. Finally, the DSSC devices have been assembled utilizing obtained dyes. The photovoltaic and EIS measurements, combined with performed calculations and fundamental dyes characterization, unraveled an intramolecular electron transfer as an initial step of the electron injection process at the dye/semiconductor interface. The overall photovoltaic action mechanism has been discussed. Our study demonstrates the significance of the anchoring group architecture in the molecular design of new sensitizers for DSSC applications.

  • The influence of magnetic particle incorporation on bisphenol A removal by β-cyclodextrin-derived sorbent
    • Natalia Łukasik
    • Sandra Wikarska
    • Hanna Świątek
    • Marcin Łapiński
    • Tomasz Klimczuk
    • Koleta Hemine
    2023 CHEMOSPHERE

    A novel, biomass-derived hybrid sorbent Ban-CD-EPI-Fe was successfully synthesized in a coprecipitation method, in which β-cyclodextrin copolymerized with banana peel extract and epichlorohydrin was grafted onto an iron oxide surface. The composition, presence of functional groups, morphology, thermal stability, and magnetic properties of the obtained material were characterized by Powder X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy and Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), and Physical Properties Measurement System (PPMS). The material bearing around 28 % of β-cyclodextrin units has mesoporous structure with plate-like morphology and active surface area determined by BET and Langmuir models equal to 38.35 and 53.59 m2 g-1, respectively. The sorption studies aimed to remove an endocrine disruptor – bisphenol A (BPA), from water. The results showed that the time evolution could be fitted with pseudo-second kinetic order with a rate constant k equal to 0.05 g mg-1 min-1. According to the Langmuir isotherm, a monolayer is created during BPA sorption, and the maximum sorption capacity was estimated as 93.5 mg g-1. After BPA sorption, the hybrid material could be easily separated by an external magnet and regenerated under mild conditions keeping its recyclability in at least eight cycles.

  • The influence of polymer bearing material and lubricating grooves layout on wear of journal bearings lubricated with contaminated water
    • Wojciech Litwin
    • Michał Wasilczuk
    • Michał Wodtke
    • Artur Olszewski
    2023 Full text TRIBOLOGY INTERNATIONAL

    The goal of the present paper is to investigate wear properties of journal sliding bearing operating in the conditions of contaminated water lubrication. Several bearing materials and bearing sleeve designs (differing in the axial grooves position and their shape) were tested experimentally under typical operating conditions in a dedicated test rig, which was equipped with a lubricating system, enabling lubrication with contaminated water. Results of the tests show that water contamination has a strong impact on the wear of the bearing system elements. It was revealed that some of the tested materials are beneficial in such demanding conditions and demonstrate lower wear rates. The design of the bearing bush also seems to have an impact on the wear, because bearings of different designs made from the same material demonstrated differences exceeding 100 %. Higher water velocity in the lubricating grooves helps to minimize the wear of the stainless steel shaft. This was also confirmed by numerical simulations.

  • The Influence of the Radio Channel on Precision of Position Estimation of the User Terminal Using the NB-IoT Radio Interface
    • Piotr Rajchowski
    • Krzysztof Cwalina
    • Jarosław Sadowski
    2023

    In the article the method of user terminal position estimation using the broadcast signals transmitted in the downlink of the NB-IoT interface was presented, including the analysis of the radio channel influence on precision of position estimation as well as the eNodeB (Evolved Node B) synchronization. The practical ability to estimate the position in the test area has been verified in the laboratory conditions, using the reference signals with a variable signal-to-noise ratio and different radio channel profiles. Additionally, the method that allows increasing the precision of the terminal position estimation without the need of increasing the sampling frequency of the radio signal is presented.

  • The influence of the size of a one-faced metallic head in Janus nanoparticles as a co-catalyst on the photocatalytic efficiency of hydrogen evolution under vis light irradiation
    • Anna Gołąbiewska
    • H. Głowienke
    • Wojciech Lisowski
    • Onur Cavdar
    • Grzegorz Trykowski
    • Tomasz Klimczuk
    • Adriana Zaleska-Medynska
    2023 INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HYDROGEN ENERGY

    Janus nanoparticles (NPs) consisting of MoOxSy nanospheres and silver (Ag) head, successfully developed by a simple, controlled method were in the first time they were applied as a co-catalysts in photocatalytic hydrogen generation reaction under vis light irradiation (λ > 420 nm). The MoOxSy-Ag as a co-catalysts were deposited on the obtained ZnIn2S4 microspheres (ZIS) using physical absorption method. The influence of the size of a one-faced metallic head (Ag) in JNPs as a co-catalyst on the photocatalytic efficiency of hydrogen evolution has been investigated. Sample 2.5-Ag-MoOxSy@ZIS with the co-catalyst with the smallest head in the range of about 61–71 nm was characterized by 34 times higher photocatalytic hydrogen generation activity compared to pure ZIS. JNPs as a co-catalyst are characterized as asymmetric structure and precisely adjusted interface and thus, they influence on a very good electron mobility in hybrid metal-semiconductor nanostructures. JNPs can be a new alternativity to metal co-catalysts used in a photocatalytic hydrogen production reaction.

  • The In-House Method of Manufacturing a Low-Cost Heat Pipe with Specified Thermophysical Properties and Geometry
    • Michał Rogowski
    • Maciej Fabrykiewicz
    • Paweł Szymański
    • Rafał Andrzejczyk
    2023 Full text Applied Sciences-Basel

    Various types of heat pipes are available to purchase off the shelf, from various manufacturers, but most of them have strictly defined geometry and technical parameters. However, when there is a need to use a heat pipe (HP) with an unusual size and shape or working conditions other than the standard ones, it becomes very costly to order them from manufacturers, especially in small quantities, and only a few producers are willing to fulfill such an order. This paper presents a detailed description and step-by-step method of manufacturing and testing a low-cost HP with specific properties and geometry, cooperating with a modular heat recovery system based on the use of phase change materials (PCM) for electromobility applications. The presented heat pipes were made entirely by hand, primarily with the use of basic workshop tools, without the use of specialized and automated CNC machines. Utensils used during the process were either made by hand or using desktop FDM 3D printers. During the evaluation of heat pipes’ performance within PCM (coconut oil), simple statistical functions were used. One-dimensional and two-dimensional histograms were used to visualize data obtained during this research. The presented method allows the manufacturing of heat pipes that are, on average, able to melt about 35% more PCM than an empty copper pipe with the exact same geometry. The HPs’ performance in coconut oil was evaluated on the basis of their future applications.

  • The interactions of monomeric acridines and unsymmetrical bisacridines (UAs) with DNA duplexes: an insight provided by NMR and MD studies
    • Tomasz Laskowski
    • Michał Kosno
    • Witold Andrałojć
    • Joanna Frąckowiak
    • Julia Borzyszkowska-Bukowska
    • Paweł Szczeblewski
    • Nikola Radoń
    • Maria Świerżewska
    • Anna Woźny
    • Ewa Paluszkiewicz
    • Zofia Mazerska
    2023 Full text Scientific Reports

    Members of a novel class of anticancer compounds, exhibiting high antitumor activity, i.e. the unsymmetrical bisacridines (UAs), consist of two heteroaromatic ring systems. One of the ring systems is an imidazoacridinone moiety, with the skeleton identical to the structural base of Symadex. The second one is a 1-nitroacridine moiety, hence it may be regarded as Nitracrine’s structural basis. These monoacridine units are connected by an aminoalkyl linker, which vary in structure. In theory, these unsymmetrical dimers should act as double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) bis-intercalators, since the monomeric units constituting the UAs were previously reported to exhibit an intercalating mode of binding into dsDNA. On the contrary, our earlier, preliminary studies have suggested that specific and/or structurally well-defined binding of UAs into DNA duplexes might not be the case. In this contribution, we have revisited and carefully examined the dsDNA-binding properties of monoacridines C-1305, C-1311 (Symadex), C-283 (Ledakrin/Nitracrine) and C-1748, as well as bisacridines C-2028, C-2041, C-2045 and C-2053 using advanced NMR techniques, aided by molecular modelling calculations and the analysis of UV–VIS spectra, decomposed by chemometric techniques. These studies allowed us to explain, why the properties of UAs are not a simple sum of the features exhibited by the acridine monomers.

  • The interplay between dopant and a surface structure of the photocatalyst – The case study of Nb-doped faceted TiO2
    • Szymon Dudziak
    • Ewa Kowalska
    • Kunlei Wang
    • Jakub Karczewski
    • Miroslaw Sawczak
    • Bunsho Ohtani
    • Anna Zielińska-Jurek
    2023 Full text APPLIED CATALYSIS B-ENVIRONMENTAL

    Anatase nanoparticles, exposing the majority of the {0 0 1}, {1 0 0} and {1 0 1} facets were synthesized and doped with different niobium amount to investigate the self-trapping of the excess electrons and resulting photocatalytic activity. Photocatalyst structure and presence of excess electrons inside the obtained Nb-doped anatase samples was confirmed by the combination of structural and spectroscopic analyses. Only for the {1 0 1} facets, introduced electrons were found to localize on the surface titanium sites, as long as the analysis was performed in the ambient environment. The photocatalytic activity data, studied in the reaction of 4-nitrophenol reduction and phenol oxidation, show that the dopant-introduced electrons might increase photocatalytic activity only for the anatase structures exposing {0 0 1} and {1 0 0} facets. Ultimately, the dopant effect on the photocatalytic activity depends on the exposed facet, which might be investigated for other systems to increase their applicability.

  • The KLC Cultures, Tacit Knowledge, and Trust Contribution to Organizational Intelligence Activation
    • Wioleta Kucharska
    • Denise A. D. Bedford
    2023 Full text

    In this paper, the authors address a new approach to three organizational, functional cultures: knowledge culture, learning culture, and collaboration culture, named together the KLC cultures. Authors claim that the KLC approach in knowledge-driven organizations must be designed and nourished to leverage knowledge and intellectual capital. It is suggested that they are necessary for simultaneous implementation because no one of these functional cultures alone is as beneficial for a company as all of them are together. Moreover, there is a risk that organizations with a learning culture developed without collaboration are stuck at the individual level of learning only; and that a knowledge culture developed without a learning culture jeopardizes the organization to be stuck in a passive way where only old, multiply verified knowledge is accepted. As a result, such companies cannot grow. That extreme situation leads to the rejection of new knowledge that is usually rationalized by the need for business safety security - that is nothing more than a ruse for intellectual laziness or personal barriers of fixed-minded managers. Summing up, based on the empirical evidence (640-cases sample, composed of Polish knowledge workers; SEM method of analysis), this paper delivers empirical evidence that knowledge culture rejects mistakes acceptance component of learning culture and that the learning climate component itself is not sufficient for explicit knowledge sharing. Knowledge sharing, organizational intelligence, and innovativeness are key benefits of the synergy that offers the KLC cultures simultaneous implementation and cultivation. The results expand the former studies by Kucharska and Bedford (2020; 2023) and Kucharska (2021a-b) and expose that KLC cultures and TRUST are needed to develop tacit knowledge sharing clearly is an essential ingredient for organizational intelligence development.

  • The lanthanide influence on selected properties of BaLnCo2O6-δ
    • Iga Szpunar
    2023 Full text

    The subject of research of this dissertation are cobalt oxides with a double perovskite structure with a general formula BaLnCo2O6-δ, where Ln stands for La, Pr, Nd, Sm, Gd, Tb, Dy. The aim of the study was to verify the ability of these materials to form the protonic defects, as well as to identify the factors determining this ability. As part of the work, materials from the proposed group were synthesised and characterized. To verify the research hypotheses the following techniques were used: powder x-ray diffraction, synchrotron radiation x-ray diffraction, powder neutron diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, thermogravimetry, iodometric titration, and x-ray absorption spectroscopy. The increase in mass in the atmosphere containing water vapour, which may indicate the incorporation of protonic defects into the material structure, was observed only in BaLaCo2O6-δ i BaGdCo2O6-δ. It has also been shown that this effect is not related to the existence or formation of secondary phases. It was observed that the factor determining the material's ability to form the protonic defects is the electronic structure of the material, resulting from the interaction between the lanthanide 4f orbitals, and the 3d cobalt and 2p oxygen orbitals.

  • The Lost Kinetic Architecture and How to Reintroduce it in the Landscape – The Case Study of the Drainage Windmills in the Vistula Delta
    • Jakub Kołodziejczak
    • Jan Cudzik
    2023 Full text Heritage and Society

    Recreating the lost kinetic landscape of the Vistula Delta is a considerable challenge. The study aims to propose a method for reproducing windmills and their effect on the landscape. The paper suggests a method based on the transposition of the forms of movement from windmills historically present in the region to modern forms. The method is based on a series of analyses starting with the study of the region and its history followed by extracting and developing the characteristics and proportions of a windmill and its impact on the landscape and human senses. Newly introduced forms are not intended to recreate historical windmills but to become a reminiscence of the history and to create a significant landscape history. The impact of new forms of historical windmills creates a series of opportunities – starting from an architectural conservation approach and ending up with landscape preservation. It is a chance to bring back the lost landscape elements and to provide interactive installation forms.

  • The Methodology for Determining the Theoretical Based on the Characteristics of Effective Absorbency Versus Pressure Drop in the Motor
    • Paweł Śliwiński
    2023

    This article describes a method for determining the theoretical and actual working volume of a hydraulic motor. It has been shown that the actual working volume of the motor is the sum of the theoretical working volume and the additional volume that depends on the pressure drop in the working chambers of the motor. It was also shown that the volumetric losses in the hydraulic motor are not only a function of the pressure drop in the working chambers, but also a non-linear function of the motor speed. The results of the experimental tests of the satellite motor are also described. Analysis of the test results confirmed the correctness of the method for determining both the theoretical working volume and the actual working volume. It was also shown that the calculation of the partial efficiencies (i.e. mechanical ef-ficiency and volumetric efficiency) of a hydraulic motor should be based on the actual working volume instead of the theoretical one.

  • The need for new transport protocols on the INTERNET
    • Józef Woźniak
    • Krzysztof Nowicki
    2023 Automatyka Elektryka Zakłócenia

    The TCP/IP protocol suite is widely used in IP networks, regardless of diverse environments and usage scenarios. Due to the fact of being the basic concept of organizing the work of the Internet, it is the subject of interest and constant analysis of operators, users, network researchers, and designers. The Internet is a "living" organism in which new needs appear all the time. This is particularly important due to the emerging new application requirements - at the highest level of network architecture, and at the same time, completely new ways of transmitting messages related to new technologies and reception techniques, allowing for parallelization of messages transfer and lossless switching/handover between several interfaces. The paper highlights the expectations and requirements related, in particular, to new "multi-object" applications, as well as the limitations resulting from the high inertia observed on the side of the IP network transport infrastructure. Taking into account both the limitations and the formulated requirements, the selected end-to-end transport protocols have been characterized. More attention was paid to two protocols implementing multi-stream transfers, namely SCTP and QUIC.

  • The new investing effectiveness evaluation multi-criteria method in modern supply systems
    • Waldemar Kamrat
    2023 Gaz, Woda i Technika Sanitarna

    The important problem in the processes of modelling and programming the development of sustainable energy sector is the multi-criteria manner of assessing the effectiveness of investments. The goal of this paper is to show how to take into account the impact of investments in multidimensional modelling decision-making processes. This goal can be achieved through the development, presentation, and use of a new multi-criteria method of evaluating the effectiveness of investing towards to modern energy sector. This innovative method was developed and tested in research for the energy sector carried out by the author. It is a new multi-criteria method, consisting of a relatively simple way of taking into account the qualitative features of the criteria in the process of evaluating investments in the energy sector. Using the real data of the energy invested in the city of X in Poland, the effectiveness of the project was examined applying the multi-criteria method proposed by the author, and for the same purpose, the well-known ELECTRE method was used. The comparison of the results of the investment effectiveness studies by both methods confirmed the high convergence of the effects obtained in both methods

  • The new method of ZnIn2S4 synthesis on the titania nanotubes substrate with enhanced stability and photoelectrochemical performance
    • Daria Roda
    • Konrad Trzciński
    • Marcin Łapiński
    • Maria Gazda
    • Miroslaw Sawczak
    • Andrzej Nowak
    • Mariusz Szkoda
    2023 Full text Scientific Reports

    The new method of ZnIn2S4 synthesis on the titania nanotubes substrate with enhanced stability and photoelectrochemical performance

  • The Novel Findings About the Hussite’s Warfares in the Gdansk/Danzig Surrounding in the Late Summer of 1433
    • Piotr Samól
    2023

    One of the most spectacular episodes during the Hussite Wars was the Czech raid through the lands of the Teutonic Order up to the Baltic Sea in 1433. Although historians and then-witnesses focused on the sacked Cistercian Abbey in Oliva and soldiers filling the bottles with seawater, the scale of damages in the main harbour of Prussia and its surroundings has not been the subject of research yet. Furthermore, most scholars treatthe potential attack on Gdansk as a spontaneous or apparent action. The author's most recent monographic studies of the Gdansk agglomeration in the Middle Ages, which consisted of three semi-independent municipalities (Main City, Old City, Young City), includes collecting unknown or never-used-before archival evidence and the results of just-completed archaeological research. These new findings give an opportunity to precisely reconstruct the day-by-day history of assaulton Gdansk, the unsuccessful attempt to capture the city and the plundering ca. 30 villages belonging to the Order, monasteries, burghers and gentry. Moreover, it allows shedding light on the different tactics of the two medieval armies and analysing the role of fear in then-politics and military operations. In the case of Gdansk, the awareness of damages caused by Hussites' attack on the agglomeration, its suburbs and harbour, might have been one of the crucial reasons why the city council, during the civil war in Prussia, decided to demolish one of the three municipalities - the Young City (Jungstadt) in 1455.

  • The novel sterilization device: the prototype testing
    • Paweł Wityk
    • Dorota Kostrzewa-Nowak
    • Robert Nowak
    • Anna Wierzbicka-Woś
    • Waldemar Gos
    2023 Full text Scientific Reports

    Currently, there are numerous methods that can be used to neutralize pathogens (i.e., devices, tools, or protective clothing), but the sterilizing agent must be selected so that it does not damage or change the properties of the material to which it is applied. Dry sterilization with hydrogen peroxide gas (VHP) in combination with UV-C radiation is well described and effective method of sterilization. This paper presents the design, construction, and analysis of a novel model of sterilization device. Verification of the sterilization process was performed, using classical microbiological methods and flow cytometry, on samples containing Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores, Bacillus subtilis spores, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans. Flow cytometry results were in line with the standardized microbiological tests and confirmed the effectiveness of the sterilization process. It was also determined that mobile sterilization stations represent a valuable solution when dedicated to public institutions and businesses in the tourism sector, sports & fitness industry, or other types of services, e.g., cosmetic services. A key feature of this solution is the ability to adapt the device within specific constraints to the user’s needs.

  • The optimization of CuxO microwires synthesis for improvement in photoelectrochemical performance
    • Jakub Sowik
    • Paweł Mazierski
    • Tomasz Klimczuk
    • Kostiantyn Nikiforow
    • Anna Malankowska
    • Adriana Zaleska-Medynska
    2023 JOURNAL OF SOLID STATE CHEMISTRY

    One of the most important challenges in the fabrication of CuxO microstructures via the electrochemical method is formation of long, regular and well-packed microwires with good adhesion on the Cu substrate and to achieve better photoelectrochemical properties, which can be potentially applied in solar-driven water splitting and CO2 conversion to light hydrocarbons. In this paper, Cu2O photoelectrode has been fabricated by direct anodization of the Cu foil, then CuO microwires (MWs) was formed by calcination process. The effect of the applied potential (10–40 V), sodium fluoride content in the electrolyte (0.2–0.5% wt.) as well as calcination conditions (400–500 °C, 60–360 min) on the morphology, phase composition, optical and photoelectrochemical properties was investigated. The highest photocurrent response was −0.71 mA cm−2 for the sample 0.35%_10V_400 °C_60min with 0.83 μm length and 154 nm diameter. The mechanism of the photocurrent generation process in the presence of CuxO/Cu under UV–Vis irradiation was proposed.

  • The (over)touristification of European historic cities: a relation between urban heritage and short-term rental market demand
    • Łukasz Bugalski
    2023

    In this chapter, I wish to highlight the critical relationship between heritage management issues and building environment transformation. I argue that such a relationship is directly expressed through the tourism phenomenon, and it should be measured through the economic dimension of the short-term rental market, which introduces this rule of thumb: if there is a lack of demand, the brand of the city is weak; if there is too much demand, the city is endangered by overtourism processes. The potential to measure this tourism phenomenon could become a crucial methodological asset for further research in heritage studies – especially in the context of the ongoing touristification of historic European cities.

  • The Physiological Effects of ASMR on Anxiety
    • Sahar Seifzadeh
    • Vahid Asayesh
    • Majid Torabi
    • Mahdi Dehghani
    • Elham Rabbani
    • Fatemeh Asgharianasl
    2023 Full text Frontiers in Biomedical Technologies

    Purpose: Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response is a novel phenomenon that is very popular these days on Youtube and Reddit to its anti-anxiety effects. As the name suggests, ASMR is a relaxing warm sensation that begins on the scalp and spreads throughout the body. This technique is also known as "brain massage," and it relies on soothing sights and sounds, like whispers and slow movements. Investigating these videos is primarily motivated by the desire to determine their scientific origins, which can be derived from a variety of approaches. Materials and Methods: In this paper, we intended to examine the physiological changes such as Heart Rate (HR) as well as Galvanic Skin Conductance (GSC) levels before and after watching a single session ASMR video. Results: The dependent t-test statistical analysis by SPSS results with P-value <=0.01 indicated that after a single session of ASMR watching, the heart rate decreased significantly comparing the baseline data. In addition, the skin conductance was slightly reduced as well, but not significantly. Conclusion: These physiological findings prove that ASMR could be an affordable, portable, and immediate anxiety relief for those struggling with anxiety-based disorders, especially for patients who do not respond well to medication or seek alternatives to anti-anxiety medications due to the wide range of side effects or would like to try it for better results along with the prescribed drugs. Keywords: Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response; Heart Rate; Skin Conductance; Anxiety-Based Disorders; Primary Insomnia; Anti-Anxiety Methods

  • The presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in disposable baby diapers: A facile determination method via salting-out assisted liquid-liquid extraction coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry
    • Paweł Georgiev
    • Mariusz Belka
    • Tomasz Baczek
    • Justyna Płotka-Wasylka
    2023 JOURNAL OF CHROMATOGRAPHY A

    In this paper we demonstrate the development of the extraction procedure of polycyclic aromatic hy- drocarbons from baby diapers along with their quantification by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Apart from covering plastic foil, disposable baby diapers contain sorbents intended to absorb urine and feces. A hygroscopic, adsorptive, and tough-to-homogenize fibrous sorbent, represents an analytical chal- lenge to analytical chemists. To address this issue we optimized and validated a novel extraction protocol including cryogenic homogenization, liquid-liquid extraction and further preconcentration by evaporation. By using deuterated internal standards in conjunction with matrix-matched calibration, high precision and accuracy were achieved. The limit of detection is estimated in the range of 0.041–0.221 ng/g (for fluorene and fluoranthene, respectively), which is far below the concentration currently assumed to be dangerous for children. The method was successfully applied to real samples available on the Polish mar- ket, and it was found that the amount of PAH compounds varies between manufacturers. Most diapers do not have all 15 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in their composition, but there is no diaper that is free of these compounds. The most abundant in diapers was acenaphthalene, where the concentration ranged from 1.6 ng/g diaper up to 362.4 ng/g. The lowest concentration in diapers is chrysene, which is not detected in most diapers. The article is a response to the lack of a harmonized analytical method for the determination of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in disposable sanitary products for children.

  • The regional energy transformation in the context of renewable energy sources potential
    • Bartłomiej Igliński
    • Urszula Kiełkowska
    • Michał Pietrzak
    • Mateusz Skrzatek
    • Gopalakrishnan Kumar
    • Grzegorz Piechota
    2023 RENEWABLE ENERGY

    The topics addressed in the article concern the problem of exploiting the potential of renewable energy sources (RES) at the regional level and the problem of the course of regional energy transition processes. Throughout the world, energy transition proceeds in a specific way for each country, due to the different potential of the selected RES and political, institutional and socio-economic conditions. Energy transition processes should support a situation where we have an energy mix based on diversification of conventional and RES. The need to systematically increase the share of energy from renewable sources is indicated here. This fact not only creates opportunities for the production of clean, green energy, but also allows us to focus on the issue of energy potential at the regional level. The main purpose of the article is to conduct an assessment of the energy potential and the course of the regional energy transition for the West Pomeranian Voivodeship (Poland). The analysis performed will allow to determine the degree of energy self-sufficiency of the selected region. The results obtained will also allow answering the fundamental question of whether achieving energy independence based solely on RES is possible at the regional level. It seems that obtaining a positive answer to this question will provide an important argument for supporting energy transition processes. These processes are aimed at developing an economy based on RES.

  • The relevance of Cassirer
    • Andrzej Karalus
    • Przemysław Parszutowicz
    2023

    The article disscusses the topicality of Cassirer's philosophy and its influence on contemporary humanities.

  • The Response of Selected Domestic Capital Markets on the Development of COVID-19 Pandemic – a Broader View
    • Marcin Potrykus
    2023 Full text Zeszyty Naukowe Uniwersytetu Ekonomicznego w Krakowie

    Objective: The study examines how the record of the first, hundredth, thousandth, ten-thousandth, one-hundred-thousandth, and millionth cases of COVID-19 affected investor behaviour in capital markets. It also looks at whether the month in which the first case was recorded in a given market affected the direction and strength of investor reactions. Lastly, it verifies whether the two announcements made by the WHO related to COVID-19 differently affected the behaviour of investors in markets where the first case of the epidemic had already been recorded and in markets where there were not yet officially confirmed cases. Research Design & Methods: Event analysis is used in looking at 77 financial markets. Findings: Investor reactions to emerging information are extreme. The largest sell-off of shares was observed when the first and hundredth cases of the disease were recorded. No statistically significant and negative abnormal rates of return were found for other points studied. The later the first case was recorded in a given market, the greater the scale of discounting in that market. In markets where the first case of infection had already been recorded, the negative reaction of investors was greater than in markets where the first case had not yet been found. Implications / Recommendations: A small number of cases and high uncertainty about COVID-19 have a more substantial negative impact on investors than a high number of cases coupled with a better understanding of the pandemic. WHO announcements further contributed to the occurrence of stronger declines in countries in which people had already become infected by COVID-19. Contribution: The current study is the first of its kind, focusing not only on the first case of COVID-19, but also on other focal points of the evolving pandemic. The other aspects (month, WHO announcements) covered are also analysed from a different, broader view than in other studies.

  • The retrofitting of ships by applying retractable bow hydrofoils: a case study
    • Karol Niklas
    • Hanna Pruszko
    2023 Full text Journal of Ocean Engineering and Marine Energy

    Increasing environmental requirements and a relatively long ship life of 30 years mean more attention is needed to retrofit existing ships. One possibility is using hydrofoils to reduce the ship’s resistance and improve comfort and safety in rough sea conditions. This study investigates the influence of retractable bow hydrofoils on the seakeeping performance and operational conditions of a selected case study vessel (V-shaped bulbous bow). The methods used were Full-scale Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations and towing tank experiments for validation. The analysis was conducted for bow waves of different lengths and a ship’s operating speed. The most beneficial effect of hydrofoils was observed for wavelengths from λ/LWL=1.0 to λ/LWL=1.2. For the wavelength λ/LWL=1.2, the reduction of heave motion was equal to 33%, pitch motion was equivalent to 28%, and the reduction of wave-added resistance was equal to 25%. The analysis also showed unfavourable conditions for which hydrofoil folding is needed to avoid causing an excessive increase in resistance. A generalized procedure has been developed to assess the potential for resistance and motion reduction by retrofitting existing ships using hydrofoils.

  • The role of additives in improving the flammability and calorific value of leather shavings and the binding of chromium compounds in ash
    • Tomasz Turzyński
    • Katarzyna Januszewicz
    • Paweł Kazimierski
    • Dariusz Kardas
    • Paulina Hercel
    • Jakub Szymborski
    • Jarosław Niewiadomski
    2023 WASTE MANAGEMENT

    Leather processing companies are struggling with the problem of increasing costs of post-production waste disposal. Therefore, the issue of thermal waste disposal at the plant and the use of generated heat in the production process is becoming more and more popular. Leather waste on its own does not allow for autothermal combustion despite the sufficient higher heating value (HHV). Therefore the Authors proposed to improve the flammability of the fuel by adding a small amount of wood sawdust to leather waste and produce premixed pellets. Six such samples were incinerated in a laboratory-scale reactor, which enables the simultaneous measurement of characteristic temperatures, exhaust gas analysis and sample mass loss rate. Research has shown that even a small addition of sawdust enables a stable combustion process and does not cause the formation of sinters. In addition, studies of the ash showed that in the case of chromium-containing waste, a large part of it remained in the ash in the form of Cr2O3. Nevertheless, very fine ash causes the small fraction chromium to be carried with the flue gas stream, therefore controlled agglomeration of the ash structure would be advisable in the final installation. Emission analysis showed high and moderately high NOx and SO2 emissions, decreasing with the increase in the amount of sawdust addition in the sample. Research has shown that leather waste is not a burden, but can be an attractive and safe source of energy for the company, while improving waste management in a circular economy.

  • The role of clusters as collective actors in the energy transformation: the case of Mazovia Cluster ICT
    • Anna Lis
    • Artur Radzio
    2023 Competitiveness Review

    Purpose – In our paper we aim to show the possibilities of implementing the idea of sustainability in the context of energy transformation using the concept of an industrial cluster. The implementation of the idea of sustainability is of particular importance from the perspective of the functioning of the meta-organisations involved in the implementation and promotion of decarbonisation processes. Industrial clusters, as collective actors initiating collective actions and providing complex governance structures, seem to have a great fit with regard to the needs of disseminating and implementing the idea of sustainable development, also in conjunction with energy development. Design/methodology/approach – Empirical evidence is derived from a case study of Mazovia Cluster ICT (MC ICT). Based on the experience of this cluster, we want to show the evolution of the industrial cluster through the prism of its growing activity in supporting energy transition. We conducted our research in the period 2022-2023 using in-depth personal interviews and an analysis of the secondary data. The primary technique for data analysis and interpretation was conventional qualitative content analysis. Findings – As a result of the study, we have distinguished three main areas of cluster activity covering the strategic, operational/project and institutional levels. Within the first area, the cluster’s efforts focused on the development of a strategy and involvement in lobbying and co-legislating. The second area refers to the cluster’s activity in the carrying out of national and transnational projects on the creation and implementation of various energy solutions. The activities undertaken in the third area include support for the development of start-ups in the field of energy and involvement in the launch of an energy cluster and the development of distributed energy in Poland. While the strategic and operational/project levels are characterized by a commonality of activities and goals, there is additionally a commonality of interests at the institutional level. Originality/value – The paper makes an additional contribution to the state-of-the-art of the industrial cluster concept by linking it to the idea of sustainable development, in the context of energy transformation. In addition, it sheds new light on issues related to cluster cooperation, combining the case of the industrial cluster with the very fresh and as yet poorly described idea of the energy cluster.

  • The role of hydrodynamic cavitation in tuning physicochemical properties of food items: A comprehensive review
    • Roberto Castro-Muñoz
    • Grzegorz Boczkaj
    • Seid Mahdi Jafari
    2023 TRENDS IN FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

    Background: Today, food processing industries are looking for alternative technologies with an eco-friendly character for the processing of food, beverages and agricultural crops. Ideally, such technologies may preserve the original properties of the food products while reaching their primary target of application. Scope and approach: At this point, hydrodynamic cavitation (HC) is recognized as one of the potential technologies for food processing since it provides effective conditions to activate and accelerate desired physiochemical transformations of treated medium. Cavitation phenomenon has been interestingly applied in the treatments and processing of foods towards homogenization (high pressure homogenizers, HPH) /mixing of systems, pasteurization/sterilization, degradation of target molecules, among other purposes. Therefore, this review aims to release the progress in applying HC-assisted technologies for the processing of food, beverages and other food items. Key findings and conclusion: Apart from microorganism inactivation mechanisms in pasteurization and sterilization for foods, emulsion formation in food systems, extraction of bioactive compounds, and improvement of physicochemical properties of food systems are reviewed. Here, the advantages and drawbacks of HC compared to other technologies are also addressed and discussed. To finalize, according to the findings of this review, the future trends, perspectives, and research gaps are also given.

  • The role of isolated farmsteads in the open landscape protection on the example of Kashubia
    • Anna Górka
    2023 Full text Architectus

    As a result of the social and economic transformation of rural areas, open landscapes are disappearing. Former farmsteads are being devastated or beginning to lose their landscape context due to the spread of residential building development. At the same time, in many places, the farmstead form is clearly legible and remains an element with which the view is structured and enriched. The article was aimed at drawing attention to the multidimensional importance of isolated farmsteads and the need to recognise their surviving resources. Being distinguishing features with which the attractiveness of an open landscape can be determined, they inspire the development of a multifunctional rural economy led by the local community. Isolated farmsteads can respond to the city’s problems and function in many non-agricultural areas, including education, tourism and recreation, nature protection and health protection. Protection of the building development of former farmsteads may provide a tool to eectively support the shaping of spatial order in large areas. The article presents a method for describing the preservation condition of single-manor buildings developed at the turn of the 19th and 20th cen-turies. It is proposed that the study analyses the architectural features of farmsteads that play an important part in the recognition of such building development in the open landscape. Observation areas were selected based on the results of remote identication of the location of historic farmsteads and buildings.The eld study was conducted in the central part of Kashubia, along selected scenic routes. These routes comprised 26 solitary homesteads. In half of the cases studied, the exposure of the farmstead buildings deteriorated due to the proximity of modern residential building development. The spatial layout of the majority of farmsteads has changed, which most commonly resulted from expansion beyond the former outline of the farmyard. Numerous historic buildings have been rebuilt. Despite the above-mentioned modications, in the study area, the farmstead has remained a distinctive feature of the landscape and retained the potential for transformation to be used in the sustainable development economy. The results encourage the study to be continued. The identied resources and architectural values of the traditional farmstead could support the management and protection of the heritage of agricultural landscapes.

  • The role of low-energy electrons in the charging process of LISA test masses
    • Simone Taioli
    • Maurizio Dapor
    • Francesco Dimiccoli
    • Michele Fabi
    • Valerio Ferroni
    • Catia Grimani
    • Mattia Villani
    • William Joseph Weber
    2023 Full text CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM GRAVITY

    The estimate of the total electron yield is fundamental for our understanding of the test-mass charging associated with cosmic rays in the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) Pathfinder mission and in the forthcoming gravitational wave observatory LISA. To unveil the role of low energy electrons in this process owing to galactic and solar energetic particle events, in this work we study the interaction of keV and sub-keV electrons with a gold slab using a mixed Monte Carlo (MC) and ab-initio framework. We determine the energy spectrum of the electrons emerging from such a gold slab hit by a primary electron beam by considering the relevant energy loss mechanisms as well as the elastic scattering events. We also show that our results are consistent with experimental data and MC simulations carried out with the GEANT4-DNA toolkit.

  • The Role of Molecular Structure in Monte Carlo Simulations of the Secondary Electron Yield and Backscattering Coefficient from Methacrylic Acid
    • Katarzyna Wiciak-Pawłowska
    • Anna Winiarska
    • Simone Taioli
    • Maurizio Dapor
    • Małgorzata Franz
    • Jan Franz
    2023 Full text MOLECULES

    In this paper, we show the influence of the chemical structure of four different conformers on the secondary electron emission and backscattering of an electron beam from a gel of methacrylic acid. The conformers have different permanent dipole moments, which determines the cross sections for elastic collisions with electrons. The cross sections are used in Monte Carlo simulations of an electron beam, which enters the gel of methacrylic acid. The secondary electron yield and the backscattering coefficient are computed as a function of the beam energy.

  • The role of noble metals in TiO2 nanotubes for the abatement of parabens by photocatalysis, catalytic and photocatalytic ozonation
    • João Lincho
    • Eva Domingues
    • Paweł Mazierski
    • Magdalena Miodyńska
    • Tomasz Klimczuk
    • Adriana Zaleska-Medynska
    • Rui F. Martins
    • João Gomes
    2023 SEPARATION AND PURIFICATION TECHNOLOGY

    The role of modified TiO2 nanotubes (TNTs) with noble metals was studied for photocatalysis, catalytic and photocatalytic ozonation of a paraben’s mixture. The TNTs were obtained by anodization and were modified by photodeposition with 0.25 mol% of Au, Pt or Pd. Results showed that solar photocatalysis led to higher degradation than UVA radiation, and under UVA radiation, the use of 3 Pt-TNTs (3 TNTs plates modified with Pt) and 3 Pd-TNTs present the same effect as the use of 5 and 7 pristine-TNTs plates, respectively. The best parabens removal was achieved for Pd-TNTs under UVA radiation and pristine TNTs under solar radiation, with 43% and 81% removal in 120 min, respectively. All the catalytic and photocatalytic ozonation experiments led to less ozone consumption than single ozonation (transferred ozone dose (TOD) = 5.27 mgO3/L) with total parabens abatement. Catalytic ozonation experiments suggest that the presence of metals can promote the formation of oxidative radicals, with the Au-TNTs presenting best performance (TOD ≈ 3.59 mgO3/L) while pristine TNTs led to TOD = 4.98 mgO3/L. For photocatalytic ozonation, the pristine TNTs led to the lowest ozone consumption (TOD = 3.74 mgO3/L). Moreover, the use of hydroxyl radical scavenger showed that hydroxyl radical is formed during single and photocatalytic ozonation decomposition.