Search

Abstract Aims Cardiogenic shock (CS) is linked to high morbidity and mortality rates, posing a challenge for clinicians. Interventions to improve tissue perfusion and blood pressure are crucial to prevent further deterioration. Unfortunately, current inotropes, which act through adrenergic receptor stimulation, are associated with malignant arrhythmias and poorer outcomes. Due to its unique mechanism of action, istaroxime should improve haemodynamics without adrenergic overactivation. The SEISMiC study is designed to examine the safety and efficacy (haemodynamic effect) of istaroxime administrated in pre‐CS patients. Methods and Results The SEISMiC study is a multinational, multicentre, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled safety and efficacy study with two parts (A and B). The study enrols patients hospitalized for decompensated heart failure (pre‐CS, not related to myocardial ischaemia) with persistent hypotension [systolic blood pressure (SBP) 70–100 mmHg for at least 2 h] and clinically confirmed congestion, NT‐proBNP ≥1400 pg/mL, and LVEF≤40%. Subjects must not have taken intravenous (iv) vasopressors, inotropes or digoxin in the past 6 h. Eligible patients are randomized to receive IV infusion of istaroxime (different doses and regimens in Parts A and B) or placebo for up to 60 h. Central haemodynamics, ECG Holter monitoring, cardiac ultrasound and biomarkers are recorded at predefined time points during the trial. The study's primary efficacy endpoint is the SBP area under the curve from baseline curve from baseline to 6 and 24 h in the combined SEISMiC Parts A and B population. Key secondary efficacy endpoints include haemodynamic, laboratory and clinical measures in SEISMiC B alone in the combined SEISMiC A and B studies. Conclusions The study results will contribute to our understanding of the role of istaroxime in pre‐CS patients and potentially provide insight into the drug's haemodynamic effects and safety in this population.

Abstract Heart failure (HF) poses a significant challenge, often leading to frequent hospitalizations and compromised quality of life. Continuous pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) monitoring offers a surrogate for congestion status in ambulatory HF care. This meta-analysis examines the efficacy of PAP monitoring devices (CardioMEMS and Chronicle) in preventing adverse outcomes in HF patients, addressing gaps in prior randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Five RCTs (2572 participants) were systematically reviewed. PAP monitoring significantly reduced HF-related hospitalizations (RR 0.72 [95% CI 0.6–0.87], p = 0.0006) and HF events (RR 0.86 [95% CI 0.75–0.99], p = 0.03), with no impact on all-cause or cardiovascular mortality. Subgroup analyses highlighted the significance of CardioMEMS and blinded studies. Meta-regression indicated a correlation between prolonged follow-up and increased reduction in HF hospitalizations. The risk of bias was generally high, with evidence certainty ranging from low to moderate. PAP monitoring devices exhibit promise in diminishing HF hospitalizations and events, especially in CardioMEMS and blinded studies. However, their influence on mortality remains inconclusive. Further research, considering diverse patient populations and intervention strategies with extended follow-up, is crucial for elucidating the optimal role of PAP monitoring in HF management.

Heart failure (HF) is a complex clinical syndrome characterized by the heart’s inability to maintain sufficient circulation, leading to inadequate organ perfusion and fluid buildup. A thorough understanding of the molecular, biochemical, and hemodynamic interactions that underlie this condition is essential for improving its management and enhancing patient outcomes. Recent advancements in cardiovascular research have emphasized the critical role of microRNAs (miRNAs) as post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression, playing an important part in the development and progression of HF. This review aims to explore the contributions of miRNAs, systemic congestion markers, and traditional biomarkers to the pathophysiology of heart failure, with the objective of clarifying their prognostic value and potential clinical applications. Among the miRNAs studied, miR-30d, miR-126-3p, and miR-483-3p have been identified as key players in processes such as left ventricular remodeling, regulation of pulmonary artery pressure, and adaptation of the right ventricle. These findings underscore the importance of miRNAs in modulating the structural and functional changes seen in HF. Beyond the heart, HF affects multiple organ systems, including the kidneys and liver, with markers of dysfunction in these organs—such as worsening renal function and liver stiffness—being closely linked to increased morbidity and mortality. This highlights the interdependence of the heart and other organs, where systemic congestion, indicated by elevated venous pressures, exacerbates organ dysfunction. In this context, traditional biomarkers like natriuretic peptides and cardiac troponins remain vital tools in the diagnosis and management of HF. Natriuretic peptides reflect ventricular strain, while troponins are indicators of myocardial injury, both of which are critical for risk stratification and monitoring disease progression. Emerging diagnostic techniques, such as lung ultrasonography and advanced echocardiographic methods, offer new ways to assess hemodynamic status, further aiding therapeutic decision-making. These techniques, alongside established biomarkers, provide a more comprehensive approach to understanding the complexities of heart failure and managing its impact on patients. In conclusion, miRNAs, systemic congestion markers, and traditional biomarkers are indispensable for understanding HF pathophysiology and determining patient prognosis. The integration of novel diagnostic tools with existing biomarkers holds the promise of improved strategies for the management of heart failure. However, further research is needed to validate their prognostic value and refine their role in optimizing treatment outcomes.

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on global public health, with long-term consequences that are still largely unknown. This study aimed to assess the data regarding acute cardiovascular hospital admissions in five European centers before and during the pandemic. A multicenter, multinational observational registry was created, comparing admissions to the emergency departments during a 3-months period in 2020 (during the pandemic) with the corresponding period in 2019 (pre-pandemic). Data on patient demographics, COVID-19 test results, primary diagnosis, comorbidities, heart failure profile, medication use, and laboratory results were collected. A total of 8778 patients were included in the analysis, with 4447 patients in 2019 and 4331 patients in 2020. The results showed significant differences in the distribution of cardiovascular diseases between the two years. The frequency of pulmonary embolism (PE) increased in 2020 compared to 2019, while acute heart failure (AHF) and other cardiovascular diseases decreased. The odds of PE incidence among hospitalized patients in 2020 were 1.316-fold greater than in 2019. The incidence of AHF was 50.83% less likely to be observed in 2020, and the odds for other cardiovascular diseases increased by 17.42% between the 2 years. Regarding acute coronary syndrome (ACS), the distribution of its types differed between 2019 and 2020, with an increase in the odds of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) in 2020. Stratification based on sex revealed further insights. Among men, the incidence of AHF decreased in 2020, while other cardiovascular diseases increased. In women, only the incidence of STEMI showed a significant increase. When analyzing the influence of SARS-CoV-2 infection, COVID-positive patients had a higher incidence of PE compared to COVID-negative patients. COVID-positive patients with ACS also exhibited symptoms of heart failure more frequently than COVID-negative patients. These findings provide valuable information on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on acute cardiovascular hospital admissions. The increased incidence of PE and changes in the distribution of other cardiovascular diseases highlight the importance of monitoring and managing cardiovascular health during and post pandemic period. The differences observed between sexes emphasize the need for further research to understand potential sex-specific effects of COVID-19 on cardiovascular outcomes.

This article deals with the issue of the real estate clause and its reception to Polish law as a real estate company. The research was conducted on the grounds of Corporate Income Tax Act and Personal Income Tax Act. The article verifies the hypothesis the concept of the real estate clause included in the OECD Model Tax Convention constitutes a mechanism enabling the countries of the location of the real estate to participate in the benefits arising in connection with the transaction of disposal of shares in a given company in exchange for granting legal protection of such transaction. The research method used in this study was a critical analysis, including a linguistic analysis of the provisions of tax acts and international agreements to which the Republic of Poland is a party. In addition, the research methods used in this article are the analysis of views of doctrine and jurisprudence of administrative courts and tax authorities. JEL Classification: K25, K34

The increasing popularity of online job vacancies and machine learning methods has raised questions about their combination to enhance our understanding of labour markets and algorithms. However, the lack of comparable studies necessitates further investigation. This research aims to explore the effectiveness of Random Forest Regressor (RFR) and Support Vector Regressor (SVR) machine learning models in predicting online job vacancies compared to the auto-regressive ARIMA method. To answer this question, detailed sub-questions are posed in relation to the sub-samples of the main data provided by Birch Consultants, an external partner originally obtained by Jobdigger. Drawing upon previous research on time-series accuracy, this study combines various approaches to benefit society and the external partner. Using the walk-forward validation method, with a 91-day expanding window, it provides precise answers to the sub-questions. Findings suggest that RFR is suitable for forecasting larger samples, while SVR is preferred due to its capability to predict small series despite relatively small scoring benefits and computational costs. Both machine learning models outperform the baseline ARIMA model in capturing complex time-series. Further research should focus on exploring advanced auto-regressive, deep learning, and hybrid models for future investigations.

Soft robotics is a hot scientific topic in areas such as medicine and medical care, implantology, haptic technologies, and the design of various flexible structures. Integrated actuators (DEAP and MRE) are characterized by special functionality and a wider range of operations than when used individually. Such actuators can later be controlled with high voltages ranging from several to a dozen or so kV. Unfortunately, the production process of integrated actuators is multi-stage and therefore more complicated. Thus, at the stage of prototyping, microscopic errors often occur that cannot be detected using simple measurement methods. The result of such errors is actuator damage at the testing stage or in subsequent application. Unfortunately, due to high voltages, actuator damage usually leads to it catching fire, which is potentially dangerous. This work presents an approach that enables the prediction of actuator damage at the testing stage. The results of modeling damaged actuators, a modified safe testing method, and a complete supervising system for testing the actuator with protection are shown. The work is also enriched with a set of data from the analyzed damage to DEAP and MRE actuators, which may prove useful in other research on the actuators of soft robotics.

The paper describes the method intended to authenticate identity of a VoIP subscriber with use of the data hiding technique that is specifically implemented by means of the echo hiding method. The scope includes presentation of experimental results related to transmission of information via a hidden channel with use of the SIP/SDP signalling protocol as well as results of subjective assessment on quality of a signal with an embedded watermark.

Our aim is to develop the method of location subscriber to be used in military communication nets. This method is based on frequency offset measurement. Analytic description of the Doppler effect creates one of such possibilities. In this paper, an original location subscriber method is presented. We showed the Maxwell equations solution in the case of a transmitter continually changing location in relation to a receiver. It makes possible to calculate exactly the value of the received signal parameters especially frequency offset. The methodology described in this paper shows that the Doppler frequency offset value can be used for radio signal sources location.

This article deals with the issue of tax liability arising when taxpayers undertake economic activity in maritime areas. The research was conducted both on the grounds of direct taxes, indirect taxes and property taxes. The article verifies the hypothesis that the current provisions of Polish tax law do not fully comply with the tax authority granted to Poland as a coastal state in its maritime areas. The research method used in this study was a critical analysis, including a linguistic analysis of the provisions of tax acts and international agreements to which the Republic of Poland is a party. In addition, the research used the analysis of views of doctrine and jurisprudence of administrative courts and tax authorities.

The aim of this study was to determine the influence of reclamation on selected soil water properties in soils developed from lignite fly ash, deposited as a dry landfill, twenty years after forest reclamation was initiated. Five soil profiles, classified as technogenic soils (Technosols) within the fly ash disposal site of the Adamów (central Poland) power plant, were selected for this study. Disturbed and undisturbed samples (V=100 cm3) were collected from depths of 5–15 cm and 30–60 in each soil profile. The following physical properties were determined: particle size distribution, particle density, bulk density, soil moisture, hygroscopic water content, and the soil-water potential. Readily available water (RAW; difference of water content at pF=2.0 and at pF=3.7) and total available water (TAW; difference of water content at pF=2.0 and at pF=4.2) were calculated based on soil moisture tension (pF) values. The following chemical properties were determined: soil reaction, total organic carbon, total nitrogen content, carbonate content. Statistical analyses were conducted using the GenStat 18 statistical software package. The soils under study were characterized by very low bulk density, high total porosity, high field water capacity and maximum hygroscopicity. The RAW/TAW ratio values indicate very effective water retention in the soils, thereby ensuring a satisfactory water supply to the plants. However, statistical analysis did not show any clear trends in variability of any determined properties. The small differences in observed outcomes probably resulted from the original variability of the fly ash deposited on the studied landfill. Obtained results show the strong similarity of fly ash derived soils and Andosols in respect of physical and soil-water properties

Badania opisane w niniejszym artykule zostały podjęte w związku z niedawną aktywnością polskiego ustawodawcy, który wprowadził opłatę od środków spożywczych do ustawy o zdrowiu publicznym. Opłata ta ma stanowić jedno z dodatkowych źródeł dochodu państwa i być wydatkowana na cele poprawy zdrowia publicznego. Celem niniejszych badań było zweryfikowanie hipotezy, że opłata od środków spożywczych stanowi realizację koncepcji sin tax obowiązującej w nauce prawa podatkowego. W toku badań została wykorzystana analiza krytyczna, w tym analiza lingwistyczna aktów prawnych. Ponadto wykorzystano analizę dorobku doktryny prawa finansowego dotyczącego koncepcji sin tax. Niniejsze badania doprowadziły do wniosków, że wprowadzona do polskiego porządku prawnego opłata od środków spożywczych stanowi formę sin tax oraz realizuje zarówno funkcję stymulacyjną, jak i alokacyjną prawa podatkowego.

Abstract Aims Endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) is a potent vasoconstrictor, which regulates renal and vascular function. We aimed to relate plasma levels of ET‐1 with the clinical picture and outcomes in acute heart failure (AHF). Methods and results We studied 113 patients with AHF [mean age 65 ± 13 (years), median (upper and lower quartiles) N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide, 5422 (2689; 8582) (pg/mL)], in whom plasma levels of ET‐1 were serially measured at admission (10.8 ± 5.2), Day 1 (9.5 ± 3.4), and Day 2 (8.9 ± 3.8) (pg/mL). The population was divided into tertiles across baseline ET‐1 levels. Patients in the highest ET‐1 tertile had predominant clinical signs of peripheral congestion; however, no difference was observed in pulmonary congestion and severity of dyspnoea. They also presented lower spot urine sodium at admission (75 ± 35 vs. 99 ± 43 vs. 108 ± 30), 6 h (84 ± 34 vs. 106 ± 43 vs. 106 ± 35), and Day 1 (75 ± 38 vs. 96 ± 36 vs. 100 ± 35) (mmol/L), when compared with the second and first tertile, respectively (all P

Abstract Aims Patients with acute heart failure (AHF) are included into clinical trials regardless of differences in baseline clinical characteristics. The aim of this study was to assess patients with AHF according to the presence of central and/or peripheral congestion at hospital admission and evaluate treatment response and outcomes in studied phenotypes. Methods and results We investigated retrospectively 352 patients (mean age: 68 ± 13 years, 77% men) hospitalized due to AHF with the signs of congestion on admission. Patients were divided according to the type of signs of congestion into three groups: A, isolated pulmonary congestion (n = 52, 15%); B, isolated peripheral congestion (n = 31, 9%); and C, signs of mixed (peripheral and central) congestion (n = 269, 76%). Patients from Group A had lower concentration of urea, bilirubin, and gamma‐glutamyl transferase whereas higher level of haematocrit, albumin, and leukocytes on admission. The highest baseline N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide level (median: 4113 vs. 3634 vs. 6093 pg/mL) and percentage of patients with chronic heart failure (56 vs. 58 vs. 74%; A vs. B. vs. C, respectively, all P

Electrochemical capacitors operating in an aqueous electrolyte solution have become ever-more popular in recent years, mainly because they are cheap and ecofriendly. Additionally, aqueous electrolytes have a higher ionic conductivity than organic electrolytes and ionic liquids. These materials can exist in the form of a liquid or a solid (hydrogel). The latter form is a very promising alternative to liquid electrolytes because it is solid, which prevents electrolyte leakage. In our work, hydrogel polymer electrolytes (HPEs) were obtained via photopolymerization of a mixture of acrylic oligomer Exothane 108 with methacrylic acid (MAA) in ethanol, which was later replaced by electrolytes (1 M Na2SO4). Through the conducted research, the effects of the monomers ratio and the organic solvent concentration (ethanol) on the mechanical properties (tensile test), electrolyte sorption, and ionic conductivity were examined. Finally, hydrogel polymer electrolytes with high ionic conductivity (σ = 26.5 mS∙cm−1) and sufficient mechanical stability (σmax = 0.25 MPa, εmax = 20%) were tested using an AC/AC electrochemical double layer capacitor (EDLC). The electrochemical properties of the devices were investigated via cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge/discharge, and impedance spectroscopy. The obtained results show the application potential of the obtained HPE in EDLC.

Soft actuators have been developed for a variety of applications, including soft grippers, artificial muscles, wearables, tactile devices, and medical devices. In this review, we will discuss a group of chemical materials and their robotic applications in soft actuators controlled with electrical stimuli. Soft actuators provide a deformable body and allow interaction with the environment to achieve the desired actuation pattern. We will also discuss the principles of operation and functionality and focus on important real-life applications of three groups of soft actuators: ionic polymer–metal composites (IPMCs), dielectric electroactive polymers (DEAPs), and magnetorheological elastomers (MREs). This review article aims to provide researchers interested in the field of soft robotics with a guide to various state-of-the-art chemistry methods used in electrically activated soft actuators, as well as the application areas for such devices.

Radio environment maps (REMs) are beginning to be an integral part of modern mobile radiocommunication systems and networks, especially for ad-hoc, cognitive, and dynamic spectrum access networks. The REMs will use emerging military systems of tactical communications. The REM is a kind of database used at the stage of planning and management of the radio resources and networks, which considers the geographical features of an area, environmental propagation properties, as well as the parameters of radio network elements and available services. At the REM, for spatial management of network nodes, various methods of propagation modeling for determining the attenuation and capacity of wireless links and radio ranges are used. One method of propagation prediction is based on a numerical solution of the wave equation in a parabolic form, which allows considering, i.a., atmospheric refraction, terrain shape, and soil electrical parameters. However, the determination of a current altitudinal profile of atmospheric refraction may be a problem. If the propagation-prediction model uses a fixed refraction profile, then the calibration of this model based on empirical measurements is required. We propose a methodology for calibrating the analyzed model based on an example empirical research scenario. The paper presents descriptions of the propagation model, test-bed and scenario used in measurements, and obtained signal attenuation results, which are used for the initial calibration of the model.

Celem autora było przedstawienie zrealizowania zasady autonomii prawa podatkowego w stosunku do definicji działalności gospodarczej, która stanowi prawne odzwierciedlenie zjawiska ekonomicznego. Autor przedstawił definicję działalności gospodarczej określoną w przepisach ustaw podatkowych i porównał pod względem prawnym wyżej wymienione definicje z definicją określoną na podstawie ustawy z 6 marca 2018 r. – Prawo przedsiębiorców (Dz. U. z 2019 r. poz. 1292 ze zm.). Autor analizował powiązania pomiędzy definicjami działalności gospodarczej a realiami obrotu gospodarczego i przedstawił błędy legislacyjne zawarte w definicjach działalności gospodarczej zawarte w ustawach podatkowych. Dokonano analizy w zakresie możliwości zniwelowania obowiązków podatkowych u osób prowadzących działalność nieewidencjonowaną w rozumieniu ustawy – Prawo przedsiębiorców. W niniejszym opracowaniu w odniesieniu do badania aktów prawnych zostały wykorzystane dwie metody: dogmatycznoprawna oraz historycznoprawna. Badania zostały przeprowadzone przy użyciu krytycznej analizy orzecznictwa sądów administracyjnych oraz Trybunału Sprawiedliwości Unii Europejskiej.

This article includes an overview of the materials and a thorough analysis of the methods that are used to produce dielectric electroactive actuator membranes. The paper also presents extensive results from our experimental studies on two types of addition silicone (Silicone Mold Start 15 and Dragon Skin 10M) that are used to manufacture actuators with different active membranes of thicknesses (165 μm and 300 μm, respectively). This study explored in depth the hardware architectures and methodologies for manufacturing the selected actuators. The displacements of the actuators were compared to their responses to two types of voltage excitation: a step response and a sinusoidal signal with an increasing frequency over time. This paper graphically presents the results that we obtained for all devices, with a particular emphasis on the resonance frequencies. When comparing membranes that had the same thickness (165 μm), it was found that the mean amplitude was higher for silicone membranes with lower values for the Young’s modulus (DS = 0.57 mm and MS = 0.73 mm). All experiments were repeated for two series of measurements and the results that were obtained in this study demonstrated the successful implementation of the actuator concepts that were made from the new types of silicone, which have not yet been used for production.

INTRODUCTION: The Authors present a new approach to a method of dynamic spectrum management for militarymobile ad hoc network. They propose that data concerning vital signs of tactical radio operators be used as contextinformation for spectrum management. If the operator’s inability to operate and protect the tactical radio is identified,actions (remote control of radio) are taken with the aim to release spectrum resources which used by the radio.Additionally, in this case remote control of radio allows switch the radio to modes used by search and rescue teams andlock the radio for unauthorized person.OBJECTIVES: The primary objective of this study was use vital signs of tactical radio operator’s as context informationfor dynamic spectrum management within MANET.METHODS: Tests for correct detection of vital signs were carried out for data generated on a Hal S3201 adult patientsimulator. Hypotheses about radio operator's vital signs were verified by means of a belief function defined in DempsterShafer theory.RESULTS: Loss vital signs by the operator allows to remote turn off his/her tactical radio while allocating more resourcesto other network users, which allow increasing data throughput.CONCLUSION: Monitoring vital signs of a tactical radio operator enables detecting combat readiness loss which resultsin inability to protect communications and can be used in spectrum management mechanisms.

This study is focused on the structural influence of 1,2,4-triazolium ionic liquid (IL), that is, the effect of the length of the substituent and the type of substitution (1-methyl-4-alkyl or 1-alkyl-4-methyl) used in the mixture with propylene carbonate (PC) on the properties of thiol–ene polymer ionogels and on the preparation of an ionogel with satisfactory mechanical and conductive properties. PC allows for higher conductivity but also causes electrolyte leakage from the gel. When using triazolium IL (instead of the imidazolium one), because of the stronger interactions between components of the system, the ionogels do not leak. In this study, 1,4-dialkyl-1,2,4-triazolium ILs were successfully synthesized by the alkylation of 1,2,4-triazole. Subsequently, gel polymer electrolytes were obtained by one-pot thiol–ene photopolymerization reactions of tetrafunctional thiols with different chemical structures: pentaerythritol tetra(3-mercaptopropionate) (PETMP) or pentaerythritol tetra(3-mercaptobutyrate) (PETMB) and trifunctional ene (TATT) in the presence of a mixture of 1,4-dialkyl-1,2,4-triazolium IL with PC. Measurements made by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy showed that all ionogels with TATT+PETMB as a polymer matrix presented smaller relative ionic conductivity compared to ionogels containing TATT+PETMP. The puncture resistance and elongation at puncture, measured by the puncture resistance method, were higher for ionogels with poly(TATT+PETMB) than for those with poly(TATT+PETMP). Moreover, ILs containing a methyl group in position N1 of the 1,2,4-triazole ring presented lower puncture resistance than ionogels with ILs containing a methyl group in position N4, especially for shorter alkyl chains. Additionally, the photo-differential scanning calorimetry method was employed to characterize the course of photopolymerization. The compositions and their constituents were characterized by UV and IR spectroscopy.

Acute heart failure (AHF) is a life-threatening, heterogeneous disease requiring urgent diagnosis and treatment. The clinical severity and medical procedures differ according to a complex interplay between the deterioration cause, underlying cardiac substrate, and comorbidities. This study aimed to analyze the natural phenotypic heterogeneity of the AHF population and evaluate the possibilities offered by clustering (unsupervised machine-learning technique) in a medical data assessment. We evaluated data from 381 AHF patients. Sixty-three clinical and biochemical features were assessed at the admission of the patients and were included in the analysis after the preprocessing. The K-medoids algorithm was implemented to create the clusters, and optimization, based on the Davies-Bouldin index, was used. The clustering was performed while blinded to the outcome. The outcome associations were evaluated using the Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox proportional-hazards regressions. The algorithm distinguished six clusters that differed significantly in 58 variables concerning i.e., etiology, clinical status, comorbidities, laboratory parameters and lifestyle factors. The clusters differed in terms of the one-year mortality (p = 0.002). Using the clustering techniques, we extracted six phenotypes from AHF patients with distinct clinical characteristics and outcomes. Our results can be valuable for future trial constructions and customized treatment.

The magnetorheological elastomer is promising material for applications in soft robotics. Its properties like reactive to external magnetic field and softness allow to construct an attractive devices. This work presents a construction of soft gripper assembled with magnetorheological elastomers. The work describes the detailed molding process of magnetorheological elastomers. Further, the electromechanical properties of magnetorheological elastomers are shown using a simple beam. Finally, the soft gripper is constructed and analyzed with the series of experiments.

This paper presents properties of a mobile ad hoc network (MANET) with dynamic spectrum management (DSM) and is devoted to the concept and implementation of the new traffic engine that is used in a High-Fidelity simulator of MANET with cognitive nodes for special applications. The communication traffic generated by each node is defined according to its role in the hierarchical structure of the operational scenario, determining its priorities, permission to use particular real time and non-real time services. The service usage is a source based model, defined in the user’s profile containing its statistical properties, describing periodicity, duration and randomness of traffic generation. The overall traffic generated by the node is a combination of traffics related to specific services. Their statistical parameters are based on real exercises results. The model was defined in the Matlab environment and next verified using the MAENA simulator for complex, operational scenarios. The achieved results show that use of both central and distributed DSM provides a better performance of the MANET network with complex traffic.

The importance of mineral elements, both in animal and plant nutrition, has been well recognized, but, in the case of sedges, the mineral composition is relatively poorly known. Studies usually relate to the content of the elements in sedge communities, or sward or hay communities with sedge participation, and rarely of Carex representatives. The objective of our study was to determine the concentrations of C, N, Ca, P, Mg, Na, K, Si, Cu, Zn, Mn, Fe, Cr and Ni in the biomass of 11 Carex species commonly occurring on natural sites of Central European lowland. Interspecific differentiations have been observed in concentrations of the major and trace elements among studied sedge species. The elemental composition of examined Carex species is diversified but generally similar to the composition of grasses. The study shows that sedges can increase fodder value and, therefore, they should be considered in meadow management as a valuable component of economically important meadow communities. Moreover, the data reported herein can be used for modelling the phytoaccumulation of various elements in the biomass of sedges. This will help in creating different patches suitable for obtaining adequate fodder. Our results can supplement current knowledge concerning the fodder value of meadows with sedge participation.

The influence of ene and thiol monomer structure on the mechanical and electrochemical properties of thiol–ene polymeric ionogels were investigated. Ionogels were obtained in situ by thiol–ene photopolymerization of 1,3,5-triallyl-1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6(1H,3H,5H)-trione (TATT), 2,4,6-triallyloxy-1,3,5-triazine (TAT), diallyl phthalate (DAP), and glyoxal bis(diallyl acetal) (GBDA) used as enes and trimethylolpropane tris(3-mercaptopropionate) (TMPTP), pentaerythritol tetrakis(3-mercaptopropionate) (PETMP), and pentaerythritol tetrakis(3-mercaptobutyrate) (PETMB) used as thiols in 70 wt.% of ionic liquid 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (EMImNTf2). The mechanical strength of ionogels was studied by puncture resistance and ionic conductivity by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The course of photopolymerization by photo-DSC method (differential scanning calorimetry) as well as characterization of compositions and its components (by IR and UV spectroscopy-Kamlet–Taft parameters) were also studied. The resulting ionogels were opaque, with phase separation, which resulted from the dispersion mechanism of polymerization. The mechanical and conductive properties of the obtained materials were found to be largely dependent on the monomer structure. Ionogels based on triazine monomers TAT and TATT were characterized by higher mechanical strength, while those based on aliphatic GBDA had the highest conductivity. These parameters are strongly related to the structure of the polymer matrix, which is in the form of connected spheres. The conductivity of ionogels was high, in the range of 3.5–5.1 mS∙cm−1.

The aim of the paper is the study of the Hybrid Renewable Energy System, which is consisted of two types of renewable energy systems (wind and sun) and is combined with storage energy system (battery). The paper presents the classification and review of architectures of Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems. The considered Hybrid Renewable Energy System was designed as a multi-converter system with gearless Wind Turbine driven Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator and with a Photovoltaic Array and Battery Energy System. The mathematical models of individual elements of a complex Hybrid Renewable Energy System were described. In the control of both systems of Wind Turbine with Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator and Photovoltaic array, the algorithms of Maximum Power Point Tracking have been implemented for higher efficiency of energy conversion. The energy storage in the battery has been managed by the control system of a bidirectional DC/DC converter. For the control of the Machine Side Converter and Wind Turbine with Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator, the vector control method has been implemented. In the control system of the Grid Side Converter, the advanced method of Direct Power Control has been applied. The energy management strategies for optimal flows of electrical energy between individual systems of considered hybrid renewable energy system are developed and described. In order to determine the operation of proposed control systems, the simulation studies have been performed for different conditions of operation of individual elements of the complex hybrid system. The considered control methods and energy management strategies were tested thorough simulation studies for different wind speed variations, different sun irradiations, and different local load demands. The performed simulations are of practical importance in terms of proper operation requirements, design selection of components and energy management of Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems.

Flexible ionogels with good mechanical properties were obtained in situ by thiol-ene photopolymerization of trimethylolpropane tris(3-mercaptopropionate) (TMPTP) and 1,3,5-triallyl-1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6(1H,3H,5H)-trione (TATT) (with C=C: SH ratio 1:1) in four imidazolium ionic liquids (1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide—EMImNTf2, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate-EMImOTf, 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide-BMImNTf2, and 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate—BMImOTf) used in the range 50 to 70 wt.%. The mechanical and electrochemical properties of obtained ionogels were examined. Ionogels with ionic liquids (ILs) with NTf2− anion are more puncture resistant than with OTf− anion. Moreover, ionogels with the NTF2− anion have better electrochemical properties than those with the OTf− anion. Although it should be noted that ionogels with the EMIm+ cation have a higher conductivity than the BMIm+. This is connected with intermolecular interactions between polymer matrix and IL related to the polarity of IL described by the Kamlet-Taft parameters. These parameters influence the morphology of the polymer matrix (as shown by the SEM micrograph), which is formed by interconnected polymer spheres.

The problem of waveform construction for mobile ad hoc networks with cognitive radio (MANET-CR) is discussed. This is the main limitation to widely use this very attractive technique, which does not need the deployment of expensive communication infrastructure. Two main questions correspond to MANET-CR effectiveness: spectrum sensing and spectrum sharing. The paper presents the structure of CR nodes that enables Opportunistic Spectrum Sharing. Procedures for advanced Dynamic Spectrum Management together with the concept of policy-based radio and a sensing method are presented. In the proposed system, the basic policy is to avoid interference generated by other users or jammers. The experiments were performed in a real environment, using the elaborated testbed. The results show that the use of sensing and cognitive management mechanisms enable more efficient use of the spectrum while maintaining reasonable overhead values related to the management procedures.

The paper presents a review of control methods of the wind energy conversion systems with permanent magnet synchronous generator. The modern vector control methods for converter system of variable-speed wind energy conversion have been described. In order to improve the energy efficiency of wind turbine, the maximum power point tracking algorithm has been applied. To verify the effectiveness of the considered configuration and its control strategy, the selected simulation studies have been performed. The obtained study results showed the high effectiveness of the considered configuration and its control methods.

Listeria monocytogenes is a one of the most important food-borne pathogens. Its ability to form biofilm contributes to increased resistance to disinfectants and inefficient disinfection, posing a serious threat for the food industry, and in the end the consumer. The aim of this study was the comparison of the biofilm formation ability of L. monocytogenes strains on stainless steel, under different environmental conditions (temperature, pH, NaCl concentration, nutrients availability), and the assessment of biofilm susceptibility to disinfectants. The bactericidal activity of four disinfectants in two concentrations (100% and 50% of working solution) against biofilm was conducted on four clinical strains, four strains isolated from food and one reference strain ATCC 19111. It was found that biofilm susceptibility to disinfectants was influenced by environmental conditions. Biofilm susceptibility correlated with the decrease of temperature, pH, nutrients availability and salinity of the environment. The least sensitive to disinfectants was biofilm produced at pH = 4 (the bacterial number ranged from 0.25 log CFU × cm−2 to 1.72 log CFU × cm−2) whereas the most sensitive was biofilm produced at pH = 9 (5.16 log CFU × cm−2 to 7.84 log CFU × cm−2). Quatosept was the most effective disinfectant, regardless of the conditions. In conclusion, biofilm susceptibility to disinfectants is strain-dependent and is affected by environmental conditions.

Odpowiednio wczesne zabezpieczenie krytycznych systemów infrastruktury na potencjalnie groźne ataki typu voice spoofing jest warunkowane opracowaniem skutecznych metod i istnieniem dedykowanych rozwiązań technicznych. Metody ataków i obrony przed impersonizacją skupiają się zasadniczo na dwóch obszarach: zmianie głosu abonenta na inny głos (wirtualny lub innej osoby) oraz nieautoryzowanej edycji komunikatów głosowych. W nowych generacjach ataków na łącza telefoniczne, w których następuje zmiana głosu mówcy w czasie rzeczywistym lub odtwarzany jest uprzednio spreparowany komunikat, stosuje się metody obrony polegające na m.in. weryfikacji wspólnie posiadanej wiedzy lub posiadanego klucza.