The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on the global economy and disrupted daily life across many regions of the world. Restrictions imposed at the time, such as the closure of national borders and restrictions on mobility, led to unprecedented challenges for the transportation sector and related tourism services compared with any prior crisis. This disruption also affected maritime passenger transport in Poland. This article aims to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on passenger traffic in Polish seaports and to develop mathematical models that could support management in the event of future epidemic threats. Three different models are proposed, which showed that the epidemic crisis resulted in a significant decline in passenger traffic at Polish seaports. The most accurate proved to be the SARIMA model. The Holt-Winters model also demonstrated high fitting and predictive performance. In turn, the STL model offered intriguing insights with its time series decomposition, enabling a detailed analysis of individual components. A comparative analysis of the proposed models confirms their usefulness in forecasting passenger traffic in seaports in the face of disruptions such as the COVID-19 pandemic. These models can be an effective decision-support tool, helping to reduce the negative effects of future epidemic threats.

Seakeeping capabilities represent a crucial aspect of marine hydrodynamics research. Calculating the movements, amplitudes, and accelerations of the ships offers valuable support for assessing and forecasting their safety and security parameters while the ships are in use. While experimental data on ship movements in consistent wave patterns are considered reliable, they also come with high impacting costs. This research is particularly designed to estimate the seakeeping performance by assessing the hydrodynamic response of a 192-meter-long container ship vessel in both regular and irregular waves. The present computational study is focused on predicting the six degrees of freedom responses for a ship at zero speed for different heading angles. Using the panel method within Maxsurf Motions software, RAOs for all degrees of freedom are obtained. In irregular sea simulations, the ITTC spectrum is employed.

The marine insurance contract primarily aims at providing security for the performance of the commercial activity of transporting goods. This contract has a special nature that aims to indemnify the insured against losses to the marine adventure. Marine insurance contract disputes, like several other types of disputes, are determined by various resolution procedures, either in the courts or through alternative methods such as arbitration, negotiation, and mediation. This characteristic influences the choice of the substantive and procedural rules that will apply to resolve possible conflicts between the parties. If disputes do arise, peaceful and quick resolution is in the interest of everyone involved. Commercial parties usually insert in marine insurance contracts the choice of court and applicable law clauses that determine a timely resolution of disputes. The choice of dispute resolution method is therefore critical. In this paper, we discuss modern, quick, and effective resolutions to ensure that the disputes arising from a marine insurance contract are resolved at the lowest cost. We also analyze several cases.

This article addresses the optimal choice of transport mode for a specific transport task. Knowing each branch’s limitations, strengths, and weaknesses facilitates decision-making when identifying them for use in a given situation. This is of particular importance when transporting oversized loads and heavy pieces. Therefore, this article aims to propose a new model of the game with nature based on SWOT analyses for transport systems selection for oversized and heavy loads. Firstly, for this solution, it is necessary to define measures for each of the four elements of a SWOT analysis (i.e., strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats). Secondly, these four elements are the states of nature in a defined game with nature. Here, the transport mode builds the scenarios that are possible to select. The SWOT analysis determines the strategic position, market attractiveness (MA), and market position (MP) of transport modes. Next, applying very well-known decision-making criteria in the theory of games with nature makes it possible to create appropriate decision-making models for transport mode selection. The application of the method is shown in the example of selecting the most competitive modes of transport for oversized loads.

Composite materials based on aluminum alloys are widely used in the automotive, aviation, and shipbuilding industries. The presence of the ceramic reinforcing phase significantly changes the mechanical properties of aluminum alloys. By appropriate selection of the components that make up the composite materials, it is possible to create mechanical properties that are not possible with unreinforced alloys. Structural elements made of these types of materials often require joining in welding processes. This article presents a general description of methods of joining composites based on aluminum alloys reinforced with ceramic particles, which have been divided into three groups: fusion welding method, solid state welding, and different methods. The individual methods highlighted how the presence of a reinforcing phase affects the welding process. Difficulties mainly arise from the disintegration of the ceramic phase by the concentrated heat source during welding processes, the formation of harmful surface products, and the lack of wettability of the ceramic particles through the metal matrix. The joints obtained vary in terms of structure, ceramic particle distribution, and mechanical properties with respect to the values characterizing the native material. From an analysis of the individual methods, it appears that solid-phase methods have the smallest effect on the degradation of ceramic particles, but have limitations in terms of the shape and size of the materials to be joined. In fusion welding methods, the degradation of the reinforcement phase by the concentrate heat source is greatest. To a certain extent, this can be compensated for by the choice of an additive material, which consists of elements that improve the wettability of the reinforcement phase through the metal matrix and form strengthening separations.

Rapeseed meal (RSM), mainly used as a protein-rich component of animal feed, is susceptible to quality degradation under the influence of high relative humidity and ambient air temperature. The aim of this study was to present empirical data and water vapour sorption isotherms for rapeseed meal at various ambient air conditions. The equilibrium moisture contents (EMCs) of RSM at two temperature levels (25 °C/40 °C), a wide range of water activities (0.3‒0.9) and two sorption pathways (adsorption /desorption) were determined, using a static gravimetric method. Mathematical equations were applied to analyse the experimental data, of which the modified GAB and modified Halsey were found to be the best fitting models, with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.983 to 0.998. It was observed that the EMC of RSM decreased with increasing temperature, but this effect was not statistically significant at water activities above 0.6. The hysteresis was statistically significant in the region of water activities from 0.3 to 0.6, but the greatest differences between moisture bound by attachment and evaporation mechanisms were revealed at the lower values of this range. The area of the hysteresis loop was smaller for the isotherms plotted at higher temperature. It was concluded that a moisture content up to 10.5% would be appropriate for short-term handling of RSM during trading, whereas for long-term storage at temperatures of 20 °C or below, a moisture content between 5.5% and 8.5% wet basis should be maintained. The results presented in this study may be applicable to the design of technological and storage parameters, necessary to ensure the microbiological and chemical stability of RSM during handling in international trade.

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced the introduction of public health measures, contributing to changes in urban, metropolitan, and intercity mobility. Previous studies indicate that, during the spread of the pandemic, changes were observed in the intensity of road traffic, road incidents, and changes in the purpose, method, and number of trips by society. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the restrictions implemented related to it, including restrictions related to the movement of people, has been analyzed in many articles. However, the topic is still relevant due to the fact that many transport operators are still struggling with the effects of the pandemic and it is an important aspect in the era of promoting sustainable forms of movement in cities. The primary objective of this article is to assess the public perception of the causes and state of safety during the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. The specific objectives include identifying factors affecting the level of safety in road traffic for individual users and their hierarchy. In the adopted research methodology, the use of a survey questionnaire enables the identification of factors influencing the perception of dangerous situations in road traffic by their participants. The study was conducted in Szczecin (a city located in the northwestern part of Poland) and neighboring communes. The results of this study can be used by decision-makers and people involved in ensuring road safety to develop pragmatic and effective preventive measures to ensure the safety of road users.

One of the challenges in today’s business environment is adequate human resources management while implementing new technologies in the work process. The implementation of changes does not always go smoothly. This study aims to test whether gaining more knowledge about new technologies in logistics by employees can lead them to change their attitude toward using such solutions in their workplace. An experimental method is used, which is applied in a natural working environment. The experiment introduced a change in the form of increased employees’ knowledge resources about selected technologies. The employees gained new knowledge when training on this topic. To assess whether the new knowledge contributed to a change in employees’ attitudes, it is necessary to test their attitudes toward new technologies before and after the training. The results confirmed that the training had a positive effect, and the employees are more convinced that automation is the right direction for the further development of the company. The experiment can, therefore, be considered successful. Support for automation increased among the group of participants despite greater awareness that it may mean the need for them to acquire new skills. Three types of employee attitudes toward new technologies are identified – supportive, neutral, and inhibitory. For each of them, managerial implications are presented.

This paper examines the current state and prospects of wind energy development in Poland, focusing on both onshore and offshore projects. The analysis highlights key regulatory frameworks, technological advancements, and the environmental benefits of integrating wind energy into the Polish energy mix. Legal and administrative barriers that affect the timeliness of project implementation and investment attractiveness are described. Additionally, the paper presents a life cycle assessment (LCA) comparing the carbon footprint of an industrial process powered by wind energy versus energy from Poland’s conventional mix. The findings emphasize the significant potential of wind energy when contributing to Poland’s energy transition, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and supporting sustainable industrial practices. The results provide a comprehensive understanding of the role of wind energy in achieving national and EU climate goals while identifying critical areas for policy and infrastructure improvements.

The manufacturing sector plays a pivotal role in global economic growth and improving living standards. However, it faces significant challenges related to environmental degradation and resource depletion due to traditional manufacturing processes. This paper aims to explore the optimization of production processes within the context of sustainable development, focusing on energy intensity, labor intensity, and ergonomics. Through a systematic literature review, the author analyzes various multicriteria decision-making (MCDM) methods applicable to manufacturing, assessing their effectiveness in addressing sustainability challenges. This research reveals that the MCDM approaches can effectively balance the interrelated aspects of energy consumption, labor management, and ergonomic design, leading to enhanced production efficiency and reduced environmental impact. The author hypothesizes that the integration of the MCDM methods will result in improved decision-making processes that foster sustainability in the manufacturing industry. The findings of this study contribute to the ongoing discourse on sustainable manufacturing practices and provide a foundational framework for future research in this area.

This work is devoted to determining the effect of mesh density and mesh type on cavitation cloud volume generated during the flow of water through the cavitation tunnel. The numerical analysis was carried out on a water model based on a cavitation tunnel located at the Institute of Water Problems of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences in Sofia, used to test the resistance of construction materials to cavitation erosion. A numerical analysis is performed for four different types of grids: polyhedra, poly-hexcore, hexcore, and tetrahedral. These grids have five different maximum cell sizes: 0.0025, 0.0020, 0.0015, 0.0010, and 0.0005 m. A numerical analysis is performed using commercial CFD software ‒ i.e., Ansys Fluent 2023 R1. The Schnerr and Sauer cavitation model and the k-omega viscous model for shear stress transport (SST) are used. This paper analyzes the qualitative parameters of the quality of the grid, distribution of velocity, pressure, average cell volume, and volume of cavitation cloud consisting of 90% volume vapor fraction. Based on the numerical analyses, it is shown that the basis for obtaining accurate results of the CFD simulations is not only the qualitative parameters of the grid but also its density.

The current stability assessment model within the context of weather criteria has remained unchanged since 2008. The loading of bulk carriers in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, due to its specific nature, requires a detailed assessment that includes the impact of irregular waving during loading operations. Based on short-term predictions of roll motion during bulk carrier loading simulation, a stability evaluation is conducted according to the standards outlined in the IS Code and by utilizing a modified weather criterion, where the author took into account variable wave height and wave period. As a result, it was found that non-compliance with the existing weather criterion under specific operational weather conditions is not observed. The modified weather criterion illustrates the range of waves in which the b/a ratio increases and decreases, thereby indicating unfavorable wave periods. The current model of the weather criterion (IS Code) for bulk carriers loaded in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone while in a dead ship condition is deemed sufficient.

This study investigates the effects of adding monofilament polypropylene fibers to concrete, focusing on its compressive and flexural strength. Results show that fiber doses up to 3.0 kg/m3 improve compressive strength by 10‒15% and flexural strength by 12‒20%. However, higher doses reduce mechanical properties due to uneven fiber distribution and lower mix workability. Using polypropylene fibers reduces the need for steel reinforcement, lowering the carbon footprint. This fiber-enhanced concrete is suitable for infrastructure applications, such as port quays, where durability and reduced maintenance are critical. Additionally, it offers cost benefits in projects without high dynamic load requirements.

The future of sustainable solutions in freight transport is crucial for ecology and sustainability. As cities become increasingly more crowded, it is necessary to look for innovative transport methods that reduce emissions and are more energy efficient. The implementation of new technologies, such as intelligent transport management systems and intermodal solutions, allows for the optimization of freight transport and the reduction of emissions. Social involvement and promoting awareness of sustainable transport are essential for city residents to support green initiatives. Cooperation between the public and private sectors, investments in modern infrastructure, and support for scientific research are crucial to overcome barriers, such as the costs of implementing new technologies, financial constraints, and problems related to outdated infrastructure. Care for the environment and economic sustainability are foundations that must be taken into account when planning future transport solutions. The introduction of alternative energy sources and the modernization of railway infrastructure are priorities that can significantly improve the efficiency and capacity of freight logistics. The aim of this study is to analyze the possibilities of developing ecological and sustainable freight transport in cities. This study engaged 53 experts with experience in low-emission green technologies to examine the factors influencing the development of sustainable solutions in freight transport. The results of the analysis emphasize the importance of social involvement, economic sustainability, care for the environment, administrative efficiency, and solid infrastructure. Initiatives related to the circular economy and pollution prevention have proven to be important. However, numerous barriers are encountered, such as gaps in public awareness, economic challenges, environmental problems, administrative difficulties, and outdated infrastructure. The key technologies indicated by experts are intelligent transport management systems and intermodal transport. Priority investments concern alternative energy sources and the modernization of railway infrastructure, which are necessary to improve the efficiency and capacity of freight logistics. This study highlights the multifaceted challenges and opportunities in eco-logistics, pointing to the need for collaboration and strategic investment in sustainable transport solutions.

This study discusses the results of research into changes in the tourist traffic in port cities, which may pose challenges to the planning of city logistics. The analysis draws on the statistical data on tourism. The study sample includes four cities located in Poland’s two coastal areas at the Baltic Sea: Szczecin and Świnoujście (West Pomeranian region), and Gdańsk and Gdynia (Pomeranian region). Covering the years 1995–2022, the analysis has been complemented with a review of the literature on the role of city logistics in solving problems caused by the development of tourism. The rapid growth of tourism generates an increased flow of people, goods, and information, which may be detrimental to the smooth functioning of a city. Insights into the development of tourist traffic over the years may facilitate the planning of city logistics and reconcile the function of a tourist destination with that of a port, which the cities have to perform. It may also support efforts that aim to ensure the sustainable development of port cities.