Towards a predictive understanding of direct ink writing of graphene-based inks

Direct ink writing (DIW) presents a flexible and resource-efficient approach towards the prototyping of functional materials and devices with complex shapes. Printed functional materials for electronic devices depend on conductive fillers such as graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs), which are increasingly popular in printed electronics and energy materials thanks to their low cost, non-toxicity and high specific surface area. However, non-spherical colloids with large filler-to-nozzle size ratios like GNPs present a challenge for high-resolution DIW due to risk of nozzle clogging. As DIW of platelet-based inks is gaining traction in several fields, the feasibility of high-resolution DIW of platelet-based inks is demonstrated here on the example of GNPs (&lt; 50 μm). A workflow for the combined optimization of ink rheology and printing process parameters was developed to gain a predictive understanding of filament quality and morphology. Using two inks and two nozzle diameters per ink, filaments ranging from &lt;100 – 1200 μm in width and 30 – 300 μm in height were produced, with conductivities suitable for application in sensors or electrodes. The derived predictive models were successfully deployed to predict filament dimensions and to achieve excellent print quality even for fine sub-nozzle size structures with very high filler-to-nozzle size ratios within only one iteration of the workflow. With this study, we advocate for the integrated development of materials for processes and processes for materials. This study will benefit high-resolution rapid prototyping of a large class of functional materials for wearable electronics, sensors, RF passives, energy materials and tissue engineering.</p

Physiotherapy for Chronic Neck Pain: Evaluation of a biopsychosocial approach

__Abstract__ Neck pain is a common complaint that causes substantial morbidity in western countries. Reported prevalence in the general population ranges from 9.5% to 22%, and the 12-month (point) prevalence estimates ranges from 30% to 50%. It is suggested that two thirds of individuals may at least once in their lifetime experience neck pain; it is more often reported by women than men. Patients with neck complaints generally also complain of neck stiffness and reduced mobility. Between 5% and 20% of neck pain patients will have a signifi cant disabling problem. In the Netherlands, neck pain is one of the three most-reported musculoskeletal pains with estimated total related costs in 1996 of US $686.2 million (€526.24 million), representing about 1% of the total Dutch health care expenditure

DESY NanoLab

The DESY NanoLab is a facility providing access to nano-characterization, nano-structuring and nano-synthesis techniques which are complementary to the advanced X-ray techniques available at DESY’s light sources. It comprises state-of-the art scanning probe microscopy and focused ion beam manufacturing, as well as surface sensitive spectroscopy techniques for chemical analysis. Specialized laboratory x-ray diffraction setups are available for a successful sample pre-characterization before the precious synchrotron beamtimes. Future upgrades will include as well characterization of magnetic properties

Moving toward a framework to compose intelligent web services

A framework for contract-based support to establish virtual collaboration is proposed using loosely coupled and heterogeneous intelligent Web services. A business process redesign scenario is also discussed for integrating shared business process between a PC manufacturer and a semiconductor manufacturer. Contracts encapsulate the control information for intelligent Web services (IWS) engaged in e-business transactions. IWS show promise as a means of supporting cross-organizational business transactions

Scale of Emotional Development – Short: reliability and validity in adults with intellectual disability

Background Intellectual disability (ID) is often associated with delays in emotional development (ED). The Scale of Emotional Development – Short (SED-S) was developed to assess the level of ED and to adapt treatment and care accordingly. Methods In a sample of 724 adults from five study sites in three countries, a confirmatory factor analysis with a one-factor model was conducted on the entire dataset as well as in different subgroups. Furthermore, internal consistency was investigated using Cronbach's alpha. Results The confirmatory factor analysis indicated that a single-factor model fits the SED-S data well. The subgroup analyses revealed good model fit, regardless of the severity of ID and irrespective of sex or the presence of autism spectrum disorder or psychiatric disorders. Internal consistency was excellent for the entire sample (Cronbach's alpha = 0.93) and various subgroups (0.869–0.938). Conclusion The results of this study suggest that the SED-S is psychometrically sound and can be used to assess the level of ED in adults with ID