Comment on the power law in rheological equations

In conformity with the principle of shear reversal, it is proposed that the power law index in the Cross equation relating steady state viscosity to shear rate in semisolid alloy slurries should have a value of 4/3, which is independent of alloy system and the fraction solid

Computer assisted medical history taking

In this thesis a study is described which was performed to explore the possibilities of computer-assisted history taking to support patient care. A system was developed by which the patient himself enters his medical data into a computer. The system enables an unexperienced user, i.e. a patient, to answer questions asked to him by an "intelligent" computerized questionnaire. In developing this system, use has been made of a fourthgeneration programming package. The system appeared to be user-friendly and was easily adaptable in the pilot phase of the study. During automated history-taking. 99 patients were presented with the medical questionnaire on the screen of a computer terminal in the form of multiple choice questions. By pressing one of several function keys, the patient could indicate his answer. His choice appeared immediately as full text on the screen for verification. At the end of a session, all answers were immediately printed and given to the patient for further verification. All patients had a regular history taken directly after the automated interview. The conventional history was written in the medical record. The doctor had no prior knowledge about the contents of the computerized intervie

Knowledge, attitudes and preferences regarding genetic testing for smoking cessation. A cross-sectional survey among Dutch smokers

Objectives Recent research strongly suggests that genetic variation influences smokers' ability to stop. Therefore, the use of (pharmaco) genetic testing may increase cessation rates. This study aims to assess the intention of smokers concerning undergoing genetic testing for smoking cessation and their knowledge, attitudes and preferences about this subject. Design Online cross-sectional survey. Setting Database internet research company of which every inhabitant of the Netherlands of '12 years with an email address and capable of understanding Dutch can become a member. Participants 587 of 711 Dutch smokers aged '18 years, daily smokers for '5 years and smoke on average '10 cigarettes/day (response rate=83%). Primary and secondary outcome measures Smokers' knowledge, attitudes and preferences and their intention to undergo genetic testing for smoking cessation. Results Knowledge on the influence of genetic factors in smoking addiction and cessation was found to be low. Smokers underestimated their chances of having a genetic predisposition and the influence of this on smoking cessation. Participants perceived few disadvantages, some advantages and showed moderate self-efficacy towards undergoing a genetic test and dealing with the results. Smokers were mildly interested in receiving information and participating in genetic testing, especially when offered by their general practitioner (GP). Conclusions For successful implementation of genetic testing for smoking in general practice, several issues should be addressed, such as the knowledge on smoking cessation, genetics and genetic testing (including advantages and disadvantages) and the influence of genetics on smoking addiction and cessation. Furthermore, smokers allocate their GPs a crucial role in the provision of information and the delivery of a genetic test for smoking; however, it is unclear whether GPs will be able and willing to take on this role