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Symbiosis of Renewable Energy and Green Hydrogen at the Regional Level: The Example of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Voivodeship in Poland
No full textBoth the energy sector transition processes and the industry transformation processes should in the future be based on the use of green hydrogen (GH) obtained using renewable energy sources (RES). It is the symbiosis of RES and GH that will allow for a sustainable energy transformation of the entire economy. The calculated amount of RES in the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Voivodeship (Poland) is 18 TWh—this would provide 4.2 billion m3 (under normal conditions) (0.38 million tons) of GH. The amount of GH produced from RES surpluses in the voivodeship is about 30% of the current production of GH from fossil fuels in Poland. The calculated GH would power 2.64 million cars. The Kujawsko-Pomorskie Voivodeship has numerous salt caverns where GH can be stored. The most important barrier in the context of GH production remains the effective construction of a hydrogen economy chain, which requires a simultaneous costly transformation of the supply and demand sides. In order to implement GH technology, it is necessary to reduce the costs associated with its production, storage and transmission
Paid and unpaid productivity losses across 28 European countries due to excess deaths and COVID-19 deaths from 2020 to 2023
No full textPreprintBackground: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant epidemiological and economic burdens. Although extensive epidemiological research exists, data on productivity losses resulting from COVID-19 remain limited. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate paid and unpaid productivity losses from excess deaths and COVID-19 deaths across 28 European countries from 2020 to 2023.
Methods: This study used retrospective, population-level Eurostat data and a societal perspective to estimate paid and unpaid productivity losses (indirect costs) related to mortality caused by the COVID-19 pandemic (excess deaths and COVID-19 attributable deaths) in 28 European countries (European Union and Norway) from 2020 to 2023. For paid (market) losses, we applied the alternatives of the human capital approach (HCA) and the friction cost approach (FCA); for unpaid (non-market) losses, we used the opportunity cost approach (OCA).
Results: Total paid productivity losses from excess deaths in 2020-2023 across all 28 countries combined were €82.9 billion in the Human Capital Approach and €3.9 billion in the Friction Cost Approach. Non-paid productivity losses amounted to €96.0 billion, of which €28.6 billion were attributable to the employed and €67.4 billion to the non-employed. For COVID-19 deaths, the productivity losses were lower: €35.0 billion for HCA, €2.1 billion for FCA, and 56.2 billion for unpaid losses (€12.4 billion for the employed, and €43.8 billion for the non-employed). The highest relative economic burden was experienced in the Central and Eastern European countries and three Baltic states (Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia). Losses were higher among men than women, particularly in paid productivity losses (>80% of total). Age-specific paid losses and unpaid losses among the employed were the greatest in the middle-aged (40-59), while for unpaid losses among non-employed, most of the burden was identified in the elderly (aged 60-74). Additionally, we identified heterogeneous time patterns across regions, with Central and Southern European countries experiencing the highest losses in 2021, Western countries in 2022 and Northern ones in 2023.
Conclusions: This study shows that the burden of productivity losses caused by pandemic mortality was substantial, highly variable across regions and over time, and sensitive to the baseline mortality and valuation method used.NCN, nr projektu: 2022/47/B/HS4/0008
Bioenergy from Maize Silage by Anaerobic Digestion: Batch Kinetics in Relation to Biochemical Composition
No full textMaize silage can play a key role in policies aimed at stabilising local energy systems, as dense and predictable source of chemical energy, it supports balance and reliability in the agricultural energy sector. To convert this potential into stable energy production, operators require kinetic models that translate routine silage quality indicators into concrete guidance for digester operation and control. Therefore, the aim of this article was to evaluate the batch kinetics of anaerobic digestion (AD) of maize silage and to select an adequate model for describing biochemical methane potential (BMP) profiles and associated energy recovery in the context of start-up, organic loading rate (OLR), hydraulic retention time (HRT) and feedstock preparation. Ten batches of silage (A–J) were examined, covering a realistic range of pH, electrical conductivity (EC), dry and volatile solids, ash, protein–fat–fibre fractions, fibre composition (NDF, ADF and ADL), derived fractions (hemicellulose, cellulose, and residual organic matter (OM)), C/N ratio and macro-/micronutrient profiles, including trace elements relevant to methanogenesis (Ni, Co, Mo, and Se). BMP tests were carried out in batch mode, and the resulting curves were fitted using the modified Gompertz and a firstorder kinetic model. Methane yields of approx. 100–120 m3 CH4/Mg fresh matter (FM) and 336–402 m3 CH4/Mg volatile solids (VS), with CH4 contents of 52–57% v/v, were typical for energy-grade maize silage. Kinetic and energetic behaviours were governed mainly by residual OM and hemicellulose (shortening the lag phase and increasing the maximum methane production rate), the ADL/cellulose ratio (controlling the slower hydrolytic tail), EC and Na/Cl/S (extending the lag phase), and C/N together with Ni/Co/Mo/Se (stabilising methanogenesis). The modified Gompertz model reproduced BMP curves with a pronounced lag phase and asymmetry more accurately (lower error and better information criterion values), and its parameters directly support start-up design, OLR ramp-up and energetic performance optimisation in bioenergy reactors. The novelty of this work lies in combining batch BMP tests, comparative kinetic modelling and detailed silage characterisation to establish quantitative links between kinetic parameters and routine maize silage quality indicators that are directly relevant for biogas plant operation and renewable energy production
Development of a chromatographic method for the analysis of risdiplam in serum extracts
No full textBackground: Risdiplam has been used to treat spinal muscular atrophy for three years. There are limited number (4) of papers devoted to its analytics. Until now, risdiplam and its metabolites have only been analyzed using a C18 column, while the sample preparation method involved only protein precipitation.
Research design and methods: Risdiplam was analysed using reversed-phase UHPLC. The experiment was designed to compare the retention of risdiplam on five columns using various mobile phases. The protein precipitation was used as the sample preparation method.
Results: Risdiplam shows greater retention on phenyl columns, where π-π interactions take part in retention. The increasing of mobile phase pH caused increased risdiplam retention, while salt concentration had no significant effect. An octadecyl column with pentafluorophenyl groups was selected with a mobile phase containing 10 mM ammonium formate (pH 4) and acetonitrile. The method was characterized by good linearity, precision, repeatability, and short analysis time. It was applied to risdiplam analysis in serum samples after protein precipitation with different solvents. Finally, proteins were effectively precipitated using 10% TFA solution, providing 90% recovery.
Conclusions: The developed procedure of extraction and determination of risdiplam is simple, fast, accurate, and reliable. It may find application for routine monitoring of risdiplam or for quality control.Narodowe Centrum Nauki, Opus, nr 2023/51/B/NZ7/0053
What if mayors ruled the world?—decade after the publication of Benjamin Barber’s book
No full textPreprintThis article revisits the ideas presented in Benjamin Barber’s If Mayors Ruled the World, a decade after its publication, analyzing the evolving role of cities in global governance within both theoretical and practical contexts. The study assesses whether Barber’s vision of cities as essential actors in solving global challenges has materialized, particularly in light of the increasing dysfunctionality of nation-states and the growing relevance of cities in international decision-making. In doing so, the authors reference the book’s main thesis and debate it from the current perspective. While Barber’s notion that cities could
“save the world” remains debatable, the past decade has undeniably reinforced their influence in addressing transnational challenges.Narodowe Centrum Nauki, grant OPUS nr 2024/55/B/HS5/01968
Bioenergy carbon capture storage and utilization: a critical review of market dynamics and policy implications
No full textBioenergy with carbon capture, utilization, and storage (BECCUS) is a competent technology with the potential to address global climate change challenges. However, its deployment faces significant hurdles across technological, economic, and policy domains. The production of biofuels including ethanol, methane, butanol, and biogas is accompanied by the release of carbon dioxide (CO2). This CO2 can be incorporated into organic molecules through various biochemical routes as part of the metabolic mechanisms of carbon absorption. The efficiency of these carbon assimilation pathways can be improved through ongoing developments in metabolic engineering, which can increase the production of valuable bioproducts, improve carbon sequestration, and support efforts to mitigate climate change. The present review recognizes critical avenues for advancing BECCUS, emphasizing market mechanisms, technological innovations, and cross-sector integration in both developed and developing countries such as India. The review recommends policy modifications aimed at establishing a transparent framework related to carbon pricing, emission trading systems, and proper certification mechanisms for biogenic carbon utilization. These modifications, coupled with the integration of renewable energy systems, would not only stimulate BECCUS adoption, but also foster its economic feasibility and sustainability. Additionally, promising technologies such as chemical looping and microalgae-based carbon capture should be technologically scaled up to ensure industrial-level applications. The integration of BECCUS with other sectors is also critical to optimize the impact of this technology on climate change mitigation. Therefore, the present review highlights the need for a robust policy framework, technologydriven innovation, and cross-sector research collaboration to resolve the challenges associated with BECCUS, boost its adoption, and ensure its economic feasibility and environmental sustainability. Moreover, providing regulatory support, augmenting market competitiveness, and aligning research on BECCUS play a transformative role in attaining the goals of the Paris Agreement and promoting environmental sustainability
Synthesis, characterization, and application of adsorbents for the mixed-mode extraction of antisense oligonucleotides from cerebrospinal fluid samples
No full textThe paper concerns the first application of a newly synthesized material for the isolation of therapeutic antisense oligonucleotides from cerebrospinal fluid samples.Background:
Antisense oligonucleotides are synthetic nucleic acid molecules capable of selectively modulating gene expression. As the number of approved antisense oligonucleotide therapies grows, reliable analytical procedures are needed to monitor their pharmacokinetics, metabolism, and safety. Current solid phase extraction strategies often suffer from limited recovery or poor reproducibility. Methods using non-polar, hydrophilic or anion-exchange adsorbents, require application of ion-pair reagents, or high concentration of salts or long conditioning. On the other hand, the potential of adsorbents with hydrophobic-hydrophilic properties used for mixed-mode extraction remains unexplored. Our study presents the first application of a newly synthesized materials for isolation of therapeutic antisense oligonucleotides from cerebrospinal fluid samples
Results:
Five silica-based adsorbents modified with aminopropyl, aliphatic, aromatic, and dicarboxylic groups were designed, synthesized, and characterized. The functionalization of adsorbents enables various interactions with oligonucleotides, namely electrostatic, hydrophobic, π…π interactions, and hydrogen bonding. A new, mixed-mode dispersive solid phase extraction procedure was developed using a central composite design, enabling a systematic evaluation of the factors governing antisense oligonucleotide desorption. The effectiveness of the procedure was assessed for oligonucleotides varying in chemical modification and length. Recoveries depended on both factors and were the highest shortmers with 2′-O-methyl modification. This effect is advantageous for the extraction of antisense oligonucleotide metabolites. Developed method was successfully used for the extraction of antisense oligonucleotides from cerebrospinal fluid enabling reproducible recoveries (40–93%). The matrix effects ranged from 89% to 100%. The highest recoveries were obtained for an oligonucleotide modified at two structural elements making the method advantageous for the extraction of oligonucleotides used in therapy.
Significance:
The proposed mixed-mode dispersive solid-phase extraction procedure provides a simple, fast, and reproducible approach for isolating of antisense oligonucleotides from cerebrospinal fluid. The method significantly simplifies sample preparation, since the procedure may be straightforwardly applied without additional purification steps. These results for the first time demonstrate the suitability and high analytical potential of hydrophobic-hydrophilic adsorbents for the extraction of antisense oligonucleotides from biological samples.Narodowe Centrum Nauki, projekt Opus nr projektu 2023/51/B/NZ7/0053
How do national governments shape and control cities’ international cooperation? Metagovernance analysis of city diplomacy
No full textCities play an increasingly important role in international relations and are indispensable in solving global challenges. In this context, the authors have been wondering to what extent they can interact autonomously on the international stage, and what tools do national governments use to shape and control their actions? This paper uses the meta-governance approach to examine intergovernmental relations in the context of cities’ international relations. The authors reveal that states mostly rely on a full range of hands-off tools rather than hands-on ones. Attempts to hierarchically regulate cities’ international relations are limited and depend on the country’s context. Furthermore, the authors reveal that informational tools play a dominant role in intergovernmental relations and are rarely the result of strategic policy structuring by the state government. These findings have important implications for future efforts to address the multi-level governance approach in the context of cities’ international cooperation.Narodowe Centrum Nauki, OPUS, nr projektu 2024/55/B/HS5/0196
Barometr Toruński. Obraz warunków życia w Toruniu
No full textBarometr Toruński 2025. Obraz warunków życia w Toruniu to raport z badania przeprowadzonego na reprezentatywnej próbie mieszkańców i mieszkanek Torunia przez zespół badawczy Instytutu Socjologii UMK przy merytorycznej współpracy Urzędu Miasta Torunia.
Badanie przedsatwia ocenę funkcjonowania miasta i jego polityk publicznych w 9 obszarach:
przestrzeń i tereny zieleni, czystość i gospodarka komunalna, drogi i przemieszczanie się, transport miejski, sport i rekreacja, kultura, rozwój, partycypacja i komunikacja, jakość życia.
Badanie zostało zrealizowane w 2025 roku.Urząd Miasta Toruni
Unravelling phylogenetic relationships within the genus Lispe (Diptera: Muscidae) through genome-assisted and de novo analyses of RAD-seq data
Full text linkThis is the pre-peer reviewed version of the following article: Walczak K., Piwczyński M., Pape T., Johnston N.P., Wallman J.F., Szpila K., Grzywacz A. 2025. Unravelling phylogenetic relationships within the genus Lispe (Diptera: Muscidae) through genome-assisted and de novo analyses of RAD-seq data. Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution, which has been published in final form at https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ympev.2025.108291.Lispe represents a species-rich genus within the family Muscidae. The current subdivision of Lispe species into species groups is based mainly on adult morphology and ecology, with the only available phylogenetic study based on three molecular markers. Nonetheless, certain species groups remain unclear, and the relationships and composition of these groups are still unresolved. This study employs restriction-site associated DNA sequencing (RAD-seq) with both reference-based and de novo reads assembly approaches to investigate relationships within Lispe. To apply a reference-based approach we utilised Oxford Nanopore Technologies long read sequencing to assemble a draft genome of L. tentaculata. The resulting topologies of phylogenetic trees are well-supported and relatively consistent, here divided into three main clades. One comprises the palposa-, rigida- and caesia-groups; another includes the nicobarensis-, nivalis-, scalaris- and tentaculata-groups; and the next consists of the longicollis-, desjardinsii-, uliginosa- and kowarzi-groups. The primary discrepancy between topologies obtained under various analytical approaches is the relationship between the leucospila-group and all other ingroup taxa, being a sister taxon either to all remaining Lispe or to a clade consisting of the longicollis-, desjardinsii-, uliginosa- and kowarzi-groups. Lispe polonaise, included for the first time in a molecular phylogenetic analysis, is nested within the caesia-group. Similarly, L. capensis and the hitherto unassigned L. mirabilis belong to the tentaculata-group. Our study confirms the validity of the 14 species groups currently recognised in the genus Lispe.This research was supported by the National Science Centre of Poland (grant no. 2019/33/B/NZ8/02316) and Poland’s high-performance computing infrastructure PLGrid (HPC Center: ACK Cyfronet AGH) (grant no. PLG/2022/015448)