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Enhancing paper hydrophobicity is of key importance for many paper-based applications. Fatty acids or vegetable oils and their derivatives replace environmentally harmful conventional coating materials but still require challenging chemical reactions for covalent attachment onto paper. Here, we show that simple storage of olive oil-coated cotton linter paper at 70 °C and subsequent Soxhlet extraction is able to endow paper with hydrophobic properties, reaching water contact angles above 130°. In-depth chemical and morphological analytics show the relevance of temperature and air accessibility during the aging process compared with aging at ambient temperature and under the exclusion of oxygen, underlining the importance of assessing a coating’s long-term performance and stability under diverse storage conditions. Simple storage of vegetable oil-coated paper at elevated temperatures followed by extraction proves to be an easy way to produce stable covalently attached hydrophobic paper coatings with exceptionally low coating amounts.

Microfluidic paper combines pump-free water transport at low cost with a high degree of sustainability, as well as good availability of the paper-forming cellulosic material, thus making it an attractive candidate for point-of-care (POC) analytics and diagnostics. Although a number of interesting demonstrators for such paper devices have been reported to date, a number of challenges still exist, which limit a successful transfer into marketable applications. A strong limitation in this respect is the (unspecific) adsorption of protein analytes to the paper fibers during the lateral flow assay. This interaction may significantly reduce the amount of analyte that reaches the detection zone of the microfluidic paper-based analytical device (µPAD), thereby reducing its overall sensitivity. Here, we introduce a novel approach on reducing the nonspecific adsorption of proteins to lab-made paper sheets for the use in µPADs. To this, cotton linter fibers in lab-formed additive-free paper sheets are modified with a surrounding thin hydrogel layer generated from photo-crosslinked, benzophenone functionalized copolymers based on poly-(oligo-ethylene glycol methacrylate) (POEGMA) and poly-dimethyl acrylamide (PDMAA). This, as we show in tests similar to lateral flow assays, significantly reduces unspecific binding of model proteins. Furthermore, by evaporating the transport fluid during the microfluidic run at the end of the paper strip through local heating, model proteins can almost quantitatively be accumulated in that zone. The possibility of complete, almost quantitative protein transport in a µPAD opens up new opportunities to significantly improve the signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio of paper-based lateral flow assays.

Economic evaluations are used to compare the costs and consequences of healthcare interventions, including those for musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders, which are very common and a major source of morbidity and absence from work. Reimbursement decisions for interventions for MSK disor-ders by decision-makers rely on the findings of economic evaluations, the design and results of which depend largely on the perspective adopted. Despite methodological advancements in economic evaluations, there are no clear guidelines on the perspective to adopt. This paper ex-plores the adoption of a societal perspective in economic evaluations of MSK disorders. Within health economics evaluations, the most commonly used perspectives include the payer perspec-tive, the healthcare perspective, and the societal perspective. To facilitate optimal resource allo-cation decisions in order to reduce the significant economic burden of MSK disorders and improve the health outcomes of individuals with these disorders, all costs and benefits associated with in-terventions for them should be included. Thus, the societal perspective is arguably a preferable option to the others for economic evaluations of interventions for MSK disorders.

Biomimetic actuators are typically constructed as functional bi- or multilayers, where actuating and resistance layers together dictate bending responses upon triggering by environmental stimuli. Inspired by motile plant structures, like the stems of the false rose of Jericho (Selaginella lepidophylla), we introduce polymer-modified paper sheets that can act as soft robotic single-layer actuators capable of hygro-responsive bending reactions. A tailored gradient modification of the paper sheet along its thickness entails increased dry and wet tensile strength and allows at the same time for hygro-responsiveness. For the fabrication of such single-layer paper devices, the adsorption behavior of a cross-linkable polymer to cellulose fiber networks was first evaluated. By using different concentrations and drying procedures fine-tuned polymer gradients throughout the thickness can be achieved. Due to the covalent cross-linking of polymer with fibers, these paper samples possess significantly increased dry and wet tensile strength properties. We furthermore investigated these gradient papers with respect to a mechanical deflection during humidity cycling. The highest humidity sensitivity is achieved using eucalyptus paper with a grammage of 150 g m⁻² modified with the polymer dissolved in IPA (~13 wt%) possessing a polymer gradient. Our study presents a straightforward approach for the design of novel hygroscopic, paper-based single-layer actuators, which have a high potential for diverse soft robotic and sensor applications.

The cost-effective implementation of nanofibrillated cellulose (CNF) at industrial scale requires optimizing the quality of the nanofibers according to their final application. Therefore, a portfolio of CNFs with different qualities is necessary, as well as further knowledge about how to obtain each of the main qualities. This paper presents the influence of various production techniques on the morphological characteristics and properties of CNFs produced from a mixture of recycled fibers. Five different pretreatments have been investigated: a mechanical pretreatment (PFI refining), two enzymatic hydrolysis strategies, and TEMPO-mediated oxidation under two different NaClO concentrations. For each pretreatment, five high-pressure homogenization (HPH) conditions have been considered. Our results show that the pretreatment determines the yield and the potential of HPH to enhance fibrillation and, therefore, the final CNF properties. These results enable one to select the most effective production method with the highest yield of produced CNFs from recovered paper for the desired CNF quality in diverse applications., Ministerio de economía y competitividad, Ministerio de economía y competitividad, Ministerio de ciencia e innovación, Comunidad de Madrid, Depto. de Ingeniería Química y de Materiales, Fac. de Ciencias Químicas, TRUE, pub

In this review we describe the reversible photoalignment effect imposed on the director in nematic liquid crystals that provides an approach for fabrication of advanced optically addressed devices. Several new concepts have been developed to render photosensitive materials during the past decade. Functional soft azo dye compounds exhibiting distinct functionalities in response to polarized light are highly desirable for fabrication of optically rewritable electronic paper. An optically rewritable element base using simple and inexpensive materials can potentially enable the development of novel environmentally friendly, paper-like gadgets with improved functionality over regular electronic paper. We argue that an optically rewritable technique is relevant for some applications, where conventional paper might be irrelevant. In particular, we have tested and discussed several techniques of color and 3D image formation. This strategy for fabrication of novel devices offers versatile methods for visualization. We also show that the intensity modulation of the irradiation light has a potential to generate improved grayscale visualization. This principle is based on the statistical distribution control of photosensitive azo dye molecules, driven by the incident polarized light. Additionally, we discuss the functional characteristics of the developed prototypes.

The paper tissue industry is a constantly evolving sector that supplies markets that require products with different specific properties. In order to meet the demand of functional properties, ensuring a green approach at the same time, research on bio-coatings has been very active in recent decades. The attention dedicated to research on functional properties has not been given to the study of the morphological and mechanical properties of the final products. This paper studied the effect of two representative bio-based coatings on paper tissue. Coatings based on chitin nanofibrils or polyphenols were sprayed on paper tissues to provide them, respectively, with antibacterial and antioxidant activity. The chemical structure of the obtained samples was preliminarily compared by ATR-FTIR before and after their application. Coatings were applied on paper tissues and, after drying, their homogeneity was investigated by ATR-FTIR on different surface areas. Antimicrobial and antioxidant properties were found for chitin nanofibrils- and polyphenols-treated paper tissues, respectively. The mechanical properties of treated and untreated paper tissues were studied, considering as a reference the same tissue paper sample treated only with water. Different mechanical tests were performed on tissues, including penetration, tensile, and tearing tests in two perpendicular directions, to consider the anisotropy of the produced tissues for industrial applications. The morphology of uncoated and coated paper tissues was analysed by field emission scanning electron microscopy. Results from mechanical properties evidenced a correlation between morphological and mechanical changes. The addition of polyphenols resulted in a reduction in mechanical resistance, while the addition of chitin enhanced this property. This study evidenced the different effects produced by two novel coatings on paper tissues for personal care in terms of properties and structure.

A comprehensive theory of light-reflective characteristics and experimental technique of liquid crystal layer thickness control for flexible optically rewritable electronic paper is presented. Cylindrical pillars were used to control the gap between flexible substrates. The introduced prototype of optically rewritable electronic paper has shown very promising performance. In this regard, we report theoretical results of structural photosensitive alignment of nematic liquid crystals on flexible substrate. The focus of theoretical study is on understanding the self-assembled complex structure, governed by the interplay between surface anchoring and liquid crystal elasticity. Mueller matrix spectroscopic ellipsometry was used to study light-reflecting characteristics and polarization properties of the twisted nematic film.

The excessive use of antibiotics in food-producing animals causes a steady rise of multiple antibiotic resistance in foodborne bacteria. Next to sulfonamides, the most common antibiotics groups are fluoroquinolones, aminoglycosides, and ß-lactams. Therefore, there is a need for a quick, efficient, and low-cost detection procedure for antibiotics. In this study, we propose an inkjet-printed aptamer-based biosensor developed for the detection of the fluoroquinolone ciprofloxacin. Due to their extraordinary high affinity and specificity, aptamers are already widely used in various applications. Here we present a ciprofloxacin-binding RNA aptamer developed by systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX). We characterized the secondary structure of the aptamer and determined the KD to 36 nM that allow detection of antibiotic contamination in a relevant range. We demonstrate that RNA aptamers can be inkjet-printed, dried, and resolved while keeping their functionality consistently intact. With this proof of concept, we are paving the way for a potential range of additional aptamer-based, printable biosensors.

Hydrophobic coatings are of utmost importance for many applications of paper-based materials. However, to date, most coating methods demand vast amounts of chemicals and solvents. Frequently, fossil-based coating materials are being used and multiple derivatization reactions are often required to obtain desired performances. In this work, we present a solvent-free paper-coating process, where olive oil as the main biogenic component is being used to obtain a hydrophobic barrier on paper. UV-induced thiol-ene photocrosslinking of olive oil was pursued in a solvent-free state at a wavelength of 254 nm without addition of photoinitiator. Optimum reaction conditions were determined in advance using oleic acid as a model compound. Paper coatings based on olive oil crosslinked by thiol-ene reaction reach water contact angles of up to 120°. By means of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry, a successful reaction and the formation of a polymer network within the coating can be proven. These results show that clickchemistry strategies can be used to achieve hydrophobic polymeric paper coatings while keeping the amount of non-biobased chemicals and reaction steps at a minimum.

It has been a persistent challenge to develop eco-friendly packaging cellulose film providing the required multiple barrier properties whilst simultaneously contributing to a circular economy. Typically, a cellulosic film made from nanocellulose materials presents severe limitations, such as poor water/moisture resistance and lacking water vapour barrier properties, related primarily to the hydrophilic and hygroscopic nature of cellulose. In this work, alkyl ketene dimer (AKD) and starch, both eco-friendly, non-toxic, cost-effective materials, were used to achieve barrier properties of novel cellulose–calcium carbonate composite films regenerated from paper components, including paper waste, using ionic liquid as solvent. AKD and starch were applied first into the ionic cellulose solution dope mix, and secondly, AKD alone was coated from hot aqueous suspension onto the film surface using a substrate surface precooling technique. The interactions between the AKD and cellulose film were characterised by Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) showing the formation of a ketone ester structure between AKD and the hydroxyl groups of cellulose. The presence of calcium carbonate particles in the composite was seen to enhance the cellulose crystallinity. The initial high-water vapour and oxygen transmission rates of the untreated base films could be decreased significantly from 2.00 to 0.14 g m−2 d−1, and 3.85 × 102 to 0.45 × 102 cm3 m−2 d−1, respectively. In addition, by applying subsequent heat treatment to the AKD coating, the water contact angle was markedly increased to reach levels of superhydrophobicity (>150°, and roll-off angle < 5°). The resistance to water absorption, grease-permeation, and tensile strength properties were ultimately improved by 41.52%, 95.33%, and 127.33%, respectively, compared with those of an untreated pure cellulose film. The resulting regenerated cellulose–calcium carbonate composite-based film and coating

Bio-based monomers represent the future market for polymer chemistry, since the political economics of different states promote green ventures toward more sustainable materials and processes. Industrial pulp and paper processing represent a large market that could advance the use of by-products to avoid waste production and reduce pollution. Lignin represents the most available side product that can be used to produce a bio-based monomer. This review is concentrated on the possibility of using bio-based monomer derivates from pulp and the paper industry for UV-curing processing. UV-curing represents the new frontier for thermoset production, allowing a fast reaction cure, less energy demand, and the elimination of solvent. The growing demand for new monomers increases research in the environmental field to substitute for petroleum-based products. This review provides an overview of the main monomers and relative families of compounds derived from industrial processes that are suitable for UV-curing. Particular focus is given to the developments reached in the last few years concerning lignin, rosin and terpenes and the related possible applications of these in UV-curing chemistry., QC 20220302

The main problem for the expansion of the use of microfluidic paper-based analytical devices and, thus, their mass production is their inherent lack of fluid flow control due to its uncontrolled fabrication protocols. To address this issue, the first step is the generation of uniform and reliable microfluidic channels. The most common paper microfluidic fabrication method is wax printing, which consists of two parts, printing and heating, where heating is a critical step for the fabrication of reproducible device dimensions. In order to bring paper-based devices to success, it is essential to optimize the fabrication process in order to always get a reproducible device. Therefore, the optimization of the heating process and the analysis of the parameters that could affect the final dimensions of the device, such as its shape, the width of the wax barrier and the internal area of the device, were performed. Moreover, we present a method to predict reproducible devices with controlled working areas in a simple manner.

For tailored functionalization of cellulose based papers, the interaction between paper fibers and functional additives must be understood. Planar cellulose surfaces represent a suitable model system for studying the binding of additives. In this work, polyelectrolyte multilayers (PEMs) are prepared by alternating dip-coating of the negatively charged cellulose derivate carboxymethyl cellulose and a polycation, either polydiallyldimethylammonium chloride (PDADMAC) or chitosan (CHI). The parameters varied during PEM formation are the concentrations (0.1–5 g/L) and pH (pH = 2–6) of the dipping solutions. Both PEM systems grow exponentially, revealing a high mobility of the polyelectrolytes (PEs). The pH-tunable charge density leads to PEMs with different surface topographies. Quartz crystal microbalance experiments with dissipation monitoring (QCM-D) reveal the pronounced viscoelastic properties of the PEMs. Ellipsometry and atomic force microscopy (AFM) measurements show that the strong and highly charged polycation PDADMAC leads to the formation of smooth PEMs. The weak polycation CHI forms cellulose model surfaces with higher film thicknesses and a tunable roughness. Both PEM systems exhibit a high water uptake when exposed to a humid environment, with the PDADMAC/carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) PEMs resulting in a water uptake up to 60% and CHI/CMC up to 20%. The resulting PEMs are water-stable, but water swellable model surfaces with a controllable roughness and topography.

The recovery and utilisation of industrial excess heat has been identified as an important contribution for energy efficiency by reducing primary energy demand. Previous works, based on top-down studies for a few sectors, or regional case studies estimated the overall availability of industrial excess heat. A more detailed analysis is required to allow the estimation of potentials for specific heat recovery technologies, particularly regarding excess heat temperature profiles. This work combines process integration methods and regression analysis to obtain cogeneration targets, detailed excess heat temperature profiles and estimations of electricity generation potentials from low and medium temperature excess heat. The work is based on the use of excess heat temperature (XHT) signatures for individual sites and regression analysis using publicly available data, obtaining estimations of the technical potential for electricity generation from low and medium temperature excess heat (60-140 degrees C) for the whole Swedish kraft pulp and paper industry. The results show a technical potential to increase the electricity production at kraft mills in Sweden by 10 to 13%, depending on the level of process integration considered, and a lower availability of excess heat than previously estimated in studies for the sector. The approach used could be adapted and applied in other sectors and regions, increasing the level of detail at which industrial excess heat estimations are obtained when compared to previous studies.

Coagulation Factor IX-rich protrhombin complex concentrate (FIX-PCC) is a therapeutic biologic product that consists of a mixture of several human plasma-derived proteins, useful for treating hemophilia B. Due to its complex composition, FIX-PCC is very challenging to bioprocess through virus removing nanofilters in order to ensure its biosafety. This article describes a two-step filtration process of FIX-PCC using a nanocellulose-based filter paper with tailored porosity. The filters were characterized with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), cryoporometry with differential scanning calorimetry, and nitrogen gas sorption. Furthermore, in order to probe the filter's cut-off size rejection threshold, removal of small- and large-size model viruses, i.e., phi X174 (28 nm) and PR772 (70 nm), was evaluated. The feed, pre-filtrate, and permeate solutions were characterized with mass-spectrometric proteomic analysis, dynamic light scattering (DLS), sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), and analytical size-exclusion high-performance liquid chromatography (SEHPLC). By sequential filtration through 11 mu m pre-filter and 33 mu m virus removal filter paper, it was possible to achieve high product throughput and high virus removal capacity. The presented approach could potentially be applied for bioprocessing other protein-based drugs.

Cyber Physical Systems (CPSs) are systems that are developed by seamlessly integrating computational algorithms and physical components, and they are a result of the technological advancement in the embedded systems and distributed systems domains, as well as the availability of sophisticated networking technology. Many industrial CPSs are subject to timing predictability, security and functional safety requirements, due to which the developers of these systems are required to verify these requirements during the their development. This position paper starts by exploring the state of the art with respect to developing timing predictable and secure embedded systems. Thereafter, the paper extends the discussion to time-critical and secure CPSs and highlights the key issues that are faced when verifying the timing predictability requirements during the development of these systems. In this context, the paper takes the position to advocate paramount importance of security as a prerequisite for timing predictability, as well as both security and timing predictability as prerequisites for functional safety. Moreover, the paper identifies the gaps in the existing frameworks and techniques for the development of time- and safety-critical CPSs and describes our viewpoint on ensuring timing predictability and security in these systems. Finally, the paper emphasises the opportunities that artificial intelligence can provide in the development of these systems.

Based on a targeted literature review, this vision paper emphasizes the importance of dementia-sensitive built space. The article specifically focuses on supporting spatial orientation and wayfinding for people living with dementia. First, we discuss types of wayfinding challenges, underlying processes, and consequences of spatial disorientation in the context of dementia of the Alzheimer’s type. Second, we focus on current efforts aimed at planning and evaluating dementia-sensitive built space, i.e., environmental design principles, interventions, evaluation tools, strategies, and planning processes. Third, we use our findings as a starting point for developing an interdisciplinary research vision aimed at encouraging further debates and research about: (1) the perspective of a person with dementia, specifically in the context of wayfinding and spatial orientation, and (2) how this perspective supplements planning and design processes of dementia-sensitive built space. We conclude that more closely considering the perspective of people with dementia supports the development of demographically sustainable future cities and care institutions.

This Special Issue contains a series of excellent research works on telecommunications and signal processing; selected from the 2019 42nd International Conference on Telecommunications and Signal Processing (TSP), which was held during 1–3 July 2019, in Budapest, Hungary. The Conference was organized in cooperation with the IEEE Region 8 (Europe, Middle East and Africa), IEEE Hungary Section, IEEE Czechoslovakia Section, IEEE Czechoslovakia Section SP/CAS/COM Joint Chapter, and Scientific Association for Infocommunications, a Sister Society of the IEEE and the IEEE Communications Society, by seventeen universities from Czech Republic, Hungary, Turkey, Taiwan, Japan, Slovak Republic, Spain, Bulgaria, France, Slovenia, Croatia, Greece, and Poland, for academics, researchers, and developers, and it serves as a premier annual international forum to promote the exchange of the latest advances in telecommunication technology and signal processing [1]. The aim of the conference is to bring together both novice and experienced scientists, developers, and specialists, to meet new colleagues, collect new ideas, and establish new cooperation between research groups from universities, research centers, and private sectors worldwide. It is our great pleasure to introduce a collection of 11 selected high-quality research papers and let us briefly illustrate the published works in this Special Issue.

This Special Issue contains a series of excellent research works on telecommunications and signal processing; selected from the 2019 42nd International Conference on Telecommunications and Signal Processing (TSP), which was held during 1–3 July 2019, in Budapest, Hungary. The Conference was organized in cooperation with the IEEE Region 8 (Europe, Middle East and Africa), IEEE Hungary Section, IEEE Czechoslovakia Section, IEEE Czechoslovakia Section SP/CAS/COM Joint Chapter, and Scientific Association for Infocommunications, a Sister Society of the IEEE and the IEEE Communications Society, by seventeen universities from Czech Republic, Hungary, Turkey, Taiwan, Japan, Slovak Republic, Spain, Bulgaria, France, Slovenia, Croatia, Greece, and Poland, for academics, researchers, and developers, and it serves as a premier annual international forum to promote the exchange of the latest advances in telecommunication technology and signal processing [1]. The aim of the conference is to bring together both novice and experienced scientists, developers, and specialists, to meet new colleagues, collect new ideas, and establish new cooperation between research groups from universities, research centers, and private sectors worldwide. It is our great pleasure to introduce a collection of 11 selected high-quality research papers and let us briefly illustrate the published works in this Special Issue.

This Special Issue contains a series of excellent research works on telecommunications and signal processing; selected from the 2019 42nd International Conference on Telecommunications and Signal Processing (TSP), which was held during 1–3 July 2019, in Budapest, Hungary. The Conference was organized in cooperation with the IEEE Region 8 (Europe, Middle East and Africa), IEEE Hungary Section, IEEE Czechoslovakia Section, IEEE Czechoslovakia Section SP/CAS/COM Joint Chapter, and Scientific Association for Infocommunications, a Sister Society of the IEEE and the IEEE Communications Society, by seventeen universities from Czech Republic, Hungary, Turkey, Taiwan, Japan, Slovak Republic, Spain, Bulgaria, France, Slovenia, Croatia, Greece, and Poland, for academics, researchers, and developers, and it serves as a premier annual international forum to promote the exchange of the latest advances in telecommunication technology and signal processing [1]. The aim of the conference is to bring together both novice and experienced scientists, developers, and specialists, to meet new colleagues, collect new ideas, and establish new cooperation between research groups from universities, research centers, and private sectors worldwide. It is our great pleasure to introduce a collection of 11 selected high-quality research papers and let us briefly illustrate the published works in this Special Issue.

This Special Issue contains a series of excellent research works on telecommunications and signal processing; selected from the 2019 42nd International Conference on Telecommunications and Signal Processing (TSP), which was held during 1–3 July 2019, in Budapest, Hungary. The Conference was organized in cooperation with the IEEE Region 8 (Europe, Middle East and Africa), IEEE Hungary Section, IEEE Czechoslovakia Section, IEEE Czechoslovakia Section SP/CAS/COM Joint Chapter, and Scientific Association for Infocommunications, a Sister Society of the IEEE and the IEEE Communications Society, by seventeen universities from Czech Republic, Hungary, Turkey, Taiwan, Japan, Slovak Republic, Spain, Bulgaria, France, Slovenia, Croatia, Greece, and Poland, for academics, researchers, and developers, and it serves as a premier annual international forum to promote the exchange of the latest advances in telecommunication technology and signal processing [1]. The aim of the conference is to bring together both novice and experienced scientists, developers, and specialists, to meet new colleagues, collect new ideas, and establish new cooperation between research groups from universities, research centers, and private sectors worldwide. It is our great pleasure to introduce a collection of 11 selected high-quality research papers and let us briefly illustrate the published works in this Special Issue.

The recycled paper and board industry needs to improve the quality of their products to meet customer demands. The refining process and strength additives are commonly used to increase mechanical properties. Interfiber bonding can also be improved using cellulose nanofibers (CNF). A circular economy approach in the industrial implementation of CNF can be addressed through the in situ production of CNF using side cellulose streams of the process as raw material, avoiding transportation costs and reducing industrial wastes. Furthermore, CNF fit for use can be produced for specific industrial applications.This study evaluates the feasibility of using two types of recycled fibers, simulating the broke streams of two paper machines producing newsprint and liner for cartonboard, to produce in situ CNF for direct application on the original pulps, old newsprint (ONP), and old corrugated container (OCC), and to reinforce the final products. The CNF were obtained by 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-1-piperidinyloxy (TEMPO)-mediated oxidation and homogenization at 600 bar. Handsheets were prepared with disintegrated recycled pulp and different amounts of CNF using a conventional three-component retention system. Results show that 3 wt.% of CNF produced with 10 mmol of NaClO per gram of dry pulp improve tensile index of ONP ~30%. For OCC, the same treatment and CNF dose increase tensile index above 60%. In both cases, CNF cause a deterioration of drainage, but this effect is effectively counteracted by optimising the retention system., Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad (MINECO), Comunidad de Madrid, Banco Santander/Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Depto. de Ingeniería Química y de Materiales, Fac. de Ciencias Químicas, TRUE, pub

A large volume of food is being wasted every year, while the pulp and paper industry also generate a large amount of solid wastes on a daily basis, causing environmental challenges around the world. Dry anaerobic digestion (AD) of these solid wastes is a cost-effective method for proper management. However, dry digestion of these waste streams has been restricted due to their complex structure, the presence of possible inhibitors and inappropriate operating conditions. In light of this fact, dry digestion of food waste (FW) and paper wastes (PW) was conducted at different total solid (TS) concentrations of reactor mixtures of 14%, 16%, 18% and 20% TS, corresponding to substrate to inoculum (S/I) ratio of 0.5 and 1; investigating the optimum operating conditions for effective dry digestion of these complex wastes. The highest methane yields of 402 NmlCH(4)/gVS and 229 NmlCH(4)/gVS were obtained from digestion of FW and PW, respectively at 14%TS corresponding to an S/I ratio of 0.5. Increasing the S/I ratio from 0.5 to 1 and thereby having a TS content of 20% in the reactor mixtures was unfavorable to the digestion of both substrates.

This paper presents a novel method for finding features in the analysis of variable distributions stemming from time series. We apply the methodology to the case of submitted and accepted papers in peer-reviewed journals. We provide a comparative study of editorial decisions for papers submitted to two peer-reviewed journals: the Journal of the Serbian Chemical Society (JSCS) and this MDPI Entropy journal. We cover three recent years for which the fate of submitted papers-about 600 papers to JSCS and 2500 to Entropy-is completely determined. Instead of comparing the number distributions of these papers as a function of time with respect to a uniform distribution, we analyze the relevant probabilities, from which we derive the information entropy. It is argued that such probabilities are indeed more relevant for authors than the actual number of submissions. We tie this entropy analysis to the so called diversity of the variable distributions. Furthermore, we emphasize the correspondence between the entropy and the diversity with inequality measures, like the Herfindahl-Hirschman index and the Theil index, itself being in the class of entropy measures; the Gini coefficient which also measures the diversity in ranking is calculated for further discussion. In this sample, the seasonal aspects of the peer review process are outlined. It is found that the use of such indices, non linear transformations of the data distributions, allow us to distinguish features and evolutions of the peer review process as a function of time as well as comparing the non-uniformity of distributions. Furthermore, t- and z-statistical tests are applied in order to measure the significance (p-level) of the findings, that is, whether papers are more likely to be accepted if they are submitted during a few specific months or during a particular "season"; the predictability strength depends on the journal.

Aerogels are a special class of nanostructured materials with very high porosity and tunable physicochemical properties. Although a few types of aerogels have already reached the market in construction materials, textiles and aerospace engineering, the full potential of aerogels is still to be assessed for other technology sectors. Based on current efforts to address the material supply chain by a circular economy approach and longevity as well as quality of life with biotechnological methods, environmental and life science applications are two emerging market opportunities where the use of aerogels needs to be further explored and evaluated in a multidisciplinary approach. In this opinion paper, the relevance of the topic is put into context and the corresponding current research efforts on aerogel technology are outlined. Furthermore, key challenges to be solved in order to create materials by design, reproducible process technology and society-centered solutions specifically for the two abovementioned technology sectors are analyzed. Overall, advances in aerogel technology can yield innovative and integrated solutions for environmental and life sciences which in turn can help improve both the welfare of population and to move towards cleaner and smarter supply chain solutions

Vascular graft infection (VGI) is a rare but severe complication of vascular surgery that is associated with a bad prognosis and high mortality rate. An accurate and prompt identification of the infection and its extent is crucial for the correct management of the patient. However, standardized diagnostic algorithms and a univocal consensus on the best strategy to reach a diagnosis still do not exist. This review aims to summarize different radiological and Nuclear Medicine (NM) modalities commonly adopted for the imaging of VGI. Moreover, we attempt to provide evidence-based answers to several practical questions raised by clinicians and surgeons when they approach imaging in order to plan the most appropriate radiological or NM examination for their patients.

Successful energy management is a way to achieve energy efficiency in the pulp and paper industry (PPI), which is important for assuring energy supply security, for increasing economic competitiveness, and for mitigating greenhouse gases. However, research shows that although energy use within PPI can be reduced by 5.5-19.4% per year, some of this by energy management practices, energy management is not always implemented. Why is this so? What are the barriers to, and drivers of implementation? How can the barriers be overcome? A systematic review of barriers and drivers in energy management in the PPI within peer-reviewed scientific articles suggests that the world-wide events that affect energy supply, volatility, and use seemingly also affect the number and frequency of research articles on energy management in the PPI. The perception of energy management in the PPI seems to be dominated by the understanding that it can mostly be achieved through technological improvements aiming to improve energy efficiency. The main driver of energy management was shown to be economic conditions: high and unstable energy prices, followed by drivers such as the need to remain internationally competitive, collaboration and energy management systems. Meanwhile, examples of the most important barriers are technical risks, lack of access to capital, lack of time and other priorities, and slim organization. The success factors for enhancing drivers and overcoming barriers were continuous energy accounting, energy-related collaboration, energy-efficiency programmes, and benchmarking. Altogether, success factors for energy management for improved energy efficiency could be summarized in the 4M frameworkthe 4M for energy efficiency: mind, measure, monitor, and managethat could be used as the energy management memory-tool that could lead to improved energy efficiency in other sectors as well., Funding Agencies|Swedish Energy Agency [2015-002143]; Division of Energy Systems in the Department of Management and Engineering at Linkoping University

This data descriptor summarizes the process applied and data gathered from the contents of 87 peer-reviewed papers/sources reporting on the contribution of public green infrastructure (PGI), in the form of public parks and urban nature spaces, in the context of city liveability and general human health and well-being. These papers were collected in a systematic literature review that informed the design of a questionnaire-based survey of PGI users in Perth, Western Australia. The survey explored visitor satisfaction with the amenities and facilities of the PGI space, and perceptions of the importance of such spaces for city liveability. Papers were sourced by searching over 15,000 databases, including all the major English language academic publishing houses, using the ProQuest Summon® service. Only English language peer-reviewed papers/editorial thought pieces/book chapters that were published since 2000 with the full text available online were considered for this review. The primary search, conducted in December 2016, identified 71 papers, and a supplementary search undertaken in June 2018 identified a further 16 papers that had become discoverable online after the completion of the initial search.

The article investigates whether environmental regulations have affected productivity development and technological change in the European pulp and paper industry. A dynamic panel data approach is selected for analyzing a sample consisting of the pulp and paper industries in eight European countries. Industry total factor productivity for the period 1993–2009 is used as the dependent variable; it is explained by the intensities of environmental regulations for various types of pollutants, as well as by a number of other independent variables. The econometric results indicate that the regulation of nitrogen oxides is associated with productivity improvements with a one-year lag, whereas regulations regarding sulphur dioxide and carbon dioxide have not had any statistically significant impact. In line with the a priori expectations, the price of pulp is connected to a negative effect, while lagged R&D expenditures have had corresponding positive impacts. However, since stationary tests are asymptotic and the data series are quite short, strong conclusions regarding the actual causal effect of environmental policy could not be drawn. The results could therefore not be viewed as a proof of the so-called strong Porter hypothesis postulating that stringent well-designed environmental regulations increase productivity growth compared to a no-policy scenario., Validerad;2018;Nivå 2;2017-12-15 (andbra)

FTA® paper can be used to protect a variety of biological samples prior to analysis, facilitating ease-of-transport to laboratories or long-term archive storage. The use of FTA® paper as a solid phase eradicates the need to elute the nucleic acids from the matrix prior to DNA amplification, enabling both DNA purification and polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based DNA amplification to be performed in a single chamber on the microfluidic device. A disc of FTA® paper, containing a biological sample, was placed within the microfluidic device on top of wax-encapsulated DNA amplification reagents. The disc containing the biological sample was then cleaned up using Tris-EDTA (TE) buffer, which was passed over the disc, via electro-osmotic flow, in order to remove any potential inhibitors of downstream processes. DNA amplification was successfully performed (from buccal cells, whole blood and semen) using a Peltier thermal cycling system, whereupon the stored PCR reagents were released during the initial denaturing step due to the wax barrier melting between the FTA® disc and PCR reagents. Such a system offers advantages in terms of a simple sample introduction interface and the ability to process archived samples in an integrated microfluidic environment with minimal risk of contamination.

A voltage-controlled hydraulic actuator is presented that employs electroosmotic fluid flow (EOF) in paper microchannels within an elastomeric structure. The microfluidic device was fabricated using a new benchtop lamination process. Flexible embedded electrodes were formed from a conductive carbon-silicone composite. The pores in the layer of paper placed between the electrodes served as the microchannels for EOF, and the pumping fluid was propylene carbonate. A sealed fluid-filled chamber was formed by film-casting silicone to lay an actuating membrane over the pumping liquid. Hydraulic force generated by EOF caused the membrane to bulge by hundreds of micrometers within fractions of a second. Potential applications of these actuators include soft robots and biomedical devices.

This Special Issue is centered on a fundamental research question that characterizes the comparative studies on these topics: where are the legal professions heading? The focus is therefore on past, present, and, especially, future of the legal professions, both in Europe and outside Europe, in civil law and common law systems, in the north and south of the world. The legal professions, in fact, are facing important challenges, as expecially the issue of their internal heterogeneity — e.g., the gap between the now dominant business lawyers and the judicial bar, each one with different interests, ethics and regulations. This Special Issue aims to contribute to the current interdisciplinary debate on the legal professions, which represent the pivotal “protagonists” of interpretation and application of law, delivery of justice and protection of people’s rights.

peer-reviewed, This work describes a novel approach to produce high quality release paper at lower cost than traditional methods. The anti-adhesive properties of release paper require the use of expensive machine glazed kraft or “Glassine” paper as the paper base. A series of polymer coatings including polyvinyl alcohol, carboxymethyl cellulose, polyethylene vinyl acetate, and polystyrene were chemically synthesized and coated onto a low cost pulp paper base. Surface roughness (Sa) and smoothness coefficients (k) were determined by atomic force micros copy (AFM), and the interactions between the polymer coating and base paper were investigated by Raman spectroscopy. Studies show the use of polyethylene vinyl acetate (PEVA) as a pre-coating layer on low cost pulp paper exhibits similar anti-adhesive properties as higher cost paper bases. In low margin markets such as the production of release paper, decreases in cost are critical to industry survival.

peer-reviewed, This work describes a novel approach to produce high quality release paper at lower cost than traditional methods. The anti-adhesive properties of release paper require the use of expensive machine glazed kraft or “Glassine” paper as the paper base. A series of polymer coatings including polyvinyl alcohol, carboxymethyl cellulose, polyethylene vinyl acetate, and polystyrene were chemically synthesized and coated onto a low cost pulp paper base. Surface roughness (Sa) and smoothness coefficients (k) were determined by atomic force micros copy (AFM), and the interactions between the polymer coating and base paper were investigated by Raman spectroscopy. Studies show the use of polyethylene vinyl acetate (PEVA) as a pre-coating layer on low cost pulp paper exhibits similar anti-adhesive properties as higher cost paper bases. In low margin markets such as the production of release paper, decreases in cost are critical to industry survival.

[EN] The present book is divided into two volumes (Volume I: articles 1–23, and Volume II: articles 24–54) which compile the articles and communications submitted to the Topical Collection ”Feature Papers of Drones” during the years 2020 to 2022 describing novel or new cutting-edge designs, developments, and/or applications of unmanned vehicles (drones). Articles 24–41 are focused on drone applications, but emphasize two types: firstly, those related to agriculture and forestry (articles 24–35) where the number of applications of drones dominates all other possible applications. These articles review the latest research and future directions for precision agriculture, vegetation monitoring, change monitoring, forestry management, and forest fires. Secondly, articles 36–41 addresses the water and marine application of drones for ecological and conservation-related applications with emphasis on the monitoring of water resources and habitat monitoring. Finally, articles 42–54 looks at just a few of the huge variety of potential applications of civil drones from different points of view, including the following: the social acceptance of drone operations in urban areas or their influential factors; 3D reconstruction applications; sensor technologies to either improve the performance of existing applications or to open up new working areas; and machine and deep learning developments

[EN] The present book is divided into two volumes (Volume I: articles 1–23, and Volume II: articles 24–54) which compile the articles and communications submitted to the Topical Collection ”Feature Papers of Drones” during the years 2020 to 2022 describing novel or new cutting-edge designs, developments, and/or applications of unmanned vehicles (drones). Articles 1–8 are devoted to the developments of drone design, where new concepts and modeling strategies as well as effective designs that improve drone stability and autonomy are introduced. Articles 9–16 focus on the communication aspects of drones as effective strategies for smooth deployment and efficient functioning are required. Therefore, several developments that aim to optimize performance and security are presented. In this regard, one of the most directly related topics is drone swarms, not only in terms of communication but also human-swarm interaction and their applications for science missions, surveillance, and disaster rescue operations. To conclude with the volume I related to drone improvements, articles 17–23 discusses the advancements associated with autonomous navigation, obstacle avoidance, and enhanced flight planning

Review Paper, Hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) is a proven cost-effective and energy-efficient method for waste management and value-added product recovery. There are, however, several issues that require further improvement or research. Identifying the strengths and weaknesses of HTC in comparison to traditional pyrolysis is crucial for scientists to choose between them or use both (complementary) to achieve specific product properties. Additionally, sharing information on diverse modeling approaches and scales is crucial to enhance the robustness and universality of HTC process models. In addition, the study on the applicability of hydrochars on target applications such as soil amendment is crucial to give back nutrients to soils and face the dependence on finite specific feedstocks in this field. Also, proper management of the process by-products, especially process water, must be addressed to improve the carbon and hydric footprint of the process. Reviewing the suitability of HTC to treat specific challenging wastes, whose strength is not related to their calorific value but to their nutrient composition (i.e., manures), is also an appealing topic for HTC research. This paper aims to tackle the above-mentioned issues through an updated review and discussion of research gaps that require further investigation.

An innovative modular approach for facile design and construction of flexible microfluidic biosensor platforms based on a dry manufacturing "craft-and-stick" approach is developed. The design and fabrication of the flexible graphene paper electrode (GPE) unit and polyethylene tetraphthalate sheet (PET)6/adhesive fluidic unit are completed by an economic and generic xurographic craft approach. The GPE widths and the microfluidic channels can be constructed down to 300 mu m and 200 mu m, respectively. Both units were assembled by simple double-sided adhesive tapes into a microfluidic integrated GPE (MF-iGPE) that are flexible, thin (<0.5 mm), and lightweight (0.4 g). We further functionalized the iGPE with Prussian blue and glucose oxidase for the fabrication of MF-iGPE glucose biosensors. With a closed-channel PET fluidic pattern, the MF-iGPE glucose biosensors were packaged and sealed to protect the integrated device from moisture for storage and could easily open with scissors for sample loading. Our glucose biosensors showed 2 linear dynamic regions of 0.05-1.0 and 1.0-5.5 mmol L-1 glucose. The MF-iGPE showed good reproducibility for glucose detection (RSD < 6.1%, n = 6) and required only 10 mu L of the analyte. This modular craft-and-stick manufacturing approach could potentially further develop along the concept of paper-crafted model assembly kits suitable for low-resource laboratories or classroom settings., Funding Agencies|Royal Golden Jubilee Ph.D. Scholarship from the Thailand Research Fund under the Office of the Prime Ministry, the Royal Thai Government [PHD/0213/2560]

Global navigation satellite systems technology is at the core of modern air traffic navigation. Aircraft use it to estimate their position, while air navigation service providers rely on services such as automatic dependent surveillance broadcast which have been enabled by this technology. Since satellite signals are very low in power, they are susceptible to radio frequency interference activities, which can have a significant impact on aviation. This paper illustrates how crowd-sourced automatic dependent surveillance data transmitted by aircraft can be used to gain situational awareness about radio frequency interference and how air traffic over Eastern Europe has been impacted by interference activities over a period spanning from February to August 2022. The results suggest that satellite navigation signals were subject to interference of varying strength and duration. We observed several days when more than 1000 flights were affected, representing 60% of the daily traffic in the analysed area. Furthermore, the extent of the interference impact on aviation depends on the altitude of the aircraft, as low-flying aircraft tend to be less affected by interference than the ones flying at higher altitudes. Consequently, this paper contributes to a better understanding of how civil aviation is affected by radio frequency interference and where such disturbances may occur.

Resilience thinking provides valuable insights into the dynamics of complex adaptive systems. To achieve resilience in urban systems, it can be fruitful to delve into the intricacies of resilience processes. This paper theorizes about how the specific characteristics of resilient systems can be integrated into the spatial design of cities. Emphasizing the importance of the built form and spatial systems in maintaining order within urban processes, we focus on how adaptive renewal cycles can be applied to various systems and dimensions where urban change, adaptation, and renewal occur. The paper identifies key resilient system characteristics applicable to urban spatial form and contextualizes urban renewal within the adaptive renewal cycle—a framework originally developed to capture temporal and spatial ecosystem dynamics. We integrate insights within ‘space syntax theory’, theorizing about how cities renew themselves over space and time. We discuss instances of ‘compressed resilience’ and the challenges posed by the ‘tyranny of small decisions’ in urban planning and development. In conclusion, we identify future research directions in the theory of spatial morphology and resilient urban systems, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of the interplay between urban processes, urban form, resilience, and adaptive renewal., J. Gustaf Richert Foundation (SWECO)

In order to find optimized headlight distributions based on real traffic data, a three-step approach is chosen. Since the complete investigations are too extensive to fit into a single publication, this paper is the first in a series of three publications. Over three papers, a novel way to optimize automotive headlight distributions based on real-life traffic and eye-tracking data is presented, based on 119 test subjects who participated in over 15,000 km of driving, including recordings of gaze behavior, light data, detection distances, and other objects in traffic. In the present paper, a baseline headlight distribution is derived from a series of detection tests conducted under ideal conditions, with a total of three tests, each with 19–30 subjects, conducted within the same test environment. In the first test, the influence of low beam intensity on the detection of pedestrians on the sidewalk (5.0 m from the center of the driving lane) is investigated. In the second test, the influence of different high beam intensities was investigated for the same detection task. In the third test, the headlight distribution and intensity are kept constant at a representative high beam level, but the detection task is changed. In this test, the pedestrian detection target is placed along different detection angles, ranging from immediately adjacent to the road (2.5°) to 15.5 m away from the center of the driving lane (8.0°). As mentioned, all of these tests were conducted under ideal conditions, with the studies taking place on an airfield with a 1.2 km long straight road and normal road markings, but without oncoming traffic, tasks other than keeping the vehicle with cruise control within its lane, or other distracting objects present. The tests yielded two sets of data; the first is the intensity, based on the first two studies, needed to ensure sufficient intensity to detect objects under ideal conditions at distances needed for different driving speeds. The last test then

In order to find optimized headlight distributions based on real traffic data, a three-step approach has been chosen. Since the complete investigations are too extensive to fit into one single publication, this paper is the second of three papers. Over the course of these papers, a novel way to optimize automotive light distributions based on real-life traffic and eye-tracking data is presented. Over all three papers, 119 test subjects participated in the studies, with over 15,000 km of driving, including recordings of gaze behavior, light data, detection distances and other objects in traffic. In the first paper, an ideal headlight distribution for straight roads with no other road users was identified. The second paper aims to collect the data required to modify this idealized headlight distribution for use on real roads. The first step is to find the extent to which real roads differ from an ideal, straight road. To do this, the German traffic space was analyzed. A new test vehicle recorded video and GPS data over a selected route. The video data were then evaluated by a machine learning algorithm. Object recognition software was used to find different traffic participants and road signs. Camera calibrations were used to find the exact angles of these objects. Using publicly available road data combined with the recorded GPS data, the video data were split into different road categories, and traffic object distributions were calculated for urban roads, country roads and motorways. The resulting analyses provided representative distributions of vehicles and highway signs along different types of roadways and roadway geometries. The GPS data were also used to find the curvature distributions along the selected route. These data were then used to optimize segment sizes for an adaptive driving beam. Overall, increasing the number of segments above 100 did not have appreciable benefits. These data will also be used in the third paper, where along the same route, the g

Because of the spatial nature of groundwater-related data and their time component, effective groundwater management requires the application of methods pertaining to the Information and Communication Technologies sector, such as spatial data management and distributed numerical modelling. The objective of this paper is to demonstrate the effectiveness of the QGIS-integrated FREEWAT platform and an approach combining spatial data management and numerical models to target groundwater management issues. FREEWAT is a free and open source platform integrated in a Geographic Information System environment and embedding tools for pre- and post-processing of spatial data and integrating numerical codes for the simulation of the hydrological cycle, with a main focus on groundwater. To this aim, this paper briefly presents the FREEWAT platform, introduces the FREEWAT approach, and showcases 13 case studies in European and non-European countries where the FREEWAT platform was applied. Application of the FREEWAT platform to real-world case studies is presented for targeting management of coastal aquifers, ground- and surface-water interaction, climate change impacts, management of transboundary aquifers, rural water management and protection of groundwater-dependent ecosystems. In this sense, compared to other existing software suites, FREEWAT allows data analysis and visualization to accomplish each step of the modelling workflow, i.e., from data analytics, to conceptual model definition, to numerical modelling and reporting of results. The presented experiences demonstrate that improved access to data and the portability of models and models’ results can help to promote water sustainability from the local- to the basin-scale. Furthermore, FREEWAT may represent a valuable tool to target the objective of increasing the capabilities of public authorities and private companies to manage groundwater resources by means of up-to-date, robust, well-documented and reliable software

This paper aims to examine the views of managers, accountants, and auditors on the impact of innovation and information technology on financial resilience, and answers the question of whether in today's businesses, which are rapidly changing and evolving and where events are unpredicted, organizations can increase their economic resilience through innovation and information technology. The research population was managers, accountants, and auditors of small and medium-sized companies in Razavi Khorasan in 2024, and the study was conducted with a questionnaire in both paper and electronic forms through in-person visits to the companies under research, where 357 auditors and 371 accountants and managers completed the questionnaire. The findings show that the innovation of products and services and the expansion of information technology increase the financial resilience of organizations. It is suggested that organizations increase the innovation of products and services and use information technology to eliminate and take effective action in dealing with possible risks. The findings suggest exciting facts about the effect of advanced digital space on financial resilience in organizations active in Iran's economy, as well as possible damages in this field that cause delays in digitalization and, as a result, the economic resilience of organizations.

One route to reducing global CO2 emissions is to improve the energy efficiency of machines. Even small improvements in efficiency can be valuable, especially in cases where an efficiency improvement can be realized over many millions of newly produced machines. For example, conventional passenger car combustion engines are being downsized (and also downspeeded). Increasingly, they are running on lower viscosity engine lubricants (such as SAE 0W-20 or lower viscosity grades) and often also have stop-start systems fitted (to prevent engine idling when the vehicle is stopped). Some of these changes result in higher levels of mixed and boundary friction, and so accurate estimation of mixed/boundary friction losses is becoming of increased importance, both for estimating friction losses and wear volumes. Traditional approaches to estimating mixed/boundary friction, which employ real area of contact modelling, and assumptions such as elastic deformation of asperities, are widely used, but recent experimental data suggests that some of these approaches underestimate mixed/boundary friction losses. In this paper, a discussion of the issues involved in reliably estimating mixed/boundary friction losses in machine elements is undertaken, highlighting where the key uncertainties lie. Mixed/boundary lubrication losses in passenger car and heavy-duty internal combustion engines are then estimated and compared with published data, and a detailed description of how friction is related to fuel consumption in these vehicles, on standard fuel economy driving cycles, is given. Knowing the amount of fuel needed to overcome mixed/boundary friction in these vehicles enables reliable estimates to be made of both the financial costs of mixed/boundary lubrication for today’s vehicles, and their associated CO2 emissions, and annual estimates are reported to be approximately $290 billion dollars with CO2 emissions of 480 million tonnes. This paper is an expanded version of a conference paper

Machines operate under increasingly harsher contact conditions, causing significant wear and contact fatigue. Sub-surface stresses are responsible for the premature contact fatigue of rolling element bearings, meshing gears, and cam–follower pairs. Surface protection measures include hard, wear-resistant coatings. Traditionally, contact integrity has been predicted using classical Hertzian contact mechanics. However, the theory is only applicable when the contact between a pair of ellipsoidal solids of revolution may be considered as a rigid indenter penetrating a semi-infinite elastic half-space. Many coatings act as thin bonded elastic layers that undergo considerably higher pressures than those predicted by the classical theory. Furthermore, inelastic deformation of bonded solids can cause plastic flow, work-hardening, and elastoplastic behaviour. This paper presents a comprehensive, integrated contact mechanics analysis that includes induced sub-surface stresses in concentrated counterformal finite line contacts for all the aforementioned cases. Generated pressures and deformation are predicted for hard coated surfaces, for which there is a dearth of relevant analysis. The contact characteristics, which are of particular practical significance, of many hard, wear-resistant advanced coatings are also studied. The paper clearly demonstrates the importance of using efficient semi-analytical, detailed holistic contact mechanics rather than the classical idealised methods or empirical numerical ones such as FEA. The novel approach presented for the finite line contact of thin-layered bonded solids has not hitherto been reported in the open literature.