Biomedical subjects

Ditza A Zachor

Publications and source records attributed to Ditza A Zachor.

3 recordsLinked to original sources

PubMed2006

The effects of intellectual functioning and autism severity on outcome of early behavioral intervention for children with autism.

UNLABELLED: This study assessed the relation between pre-intervention variables (cognition, socialization and communication) to outcome in young children with autism. METHOD: Twenty five children with autism (20-32 months) were enrolled in intensive behavior intervention. The children were divided into groups based on their IQ scores and on the severity of their social interaction and communication deficits [per autism diagnostic observation schedule (ADOS) scores]. Six developmental-behavioral domains including, imitation, receptive language, expressive language, nonverbal communication skills, play skills and stereotyped behaviors were assessed at pre- and post-1 year of intervention times. RESULTS: Significant progress was noted in all the six developmental-behavioral domains after 1 year of intervention. Children with higher initial cognitive levels and children with fewer measured early social interaction deficits showed better acquisition of skills in three developmental areas, receptive language, expressive language and play skills. Both groups showed better progress in Receptive language skills. Better progress in expressive language was associated with the child's social abilities, while more significant progress in play skills was related to pre-intervention cognitive level. CONCLUSIONS: These findings emphasize the importance of early intensive intervention in autism and the value of pre-intervention cognitive and social interaction levels for predicting outcome.

Autistic Disorder↗

PubMed2005

Alternative developmental evaluation paradigm in centers for developmental disabilities.

The interdisciplinary evaluation has been a well-established process in centers for neurodevelopmental disabilities, but it is costly and may generate long waiting lists that can delay early diagnosis and treatment. An alternative evaluation paradigm was designed, using a specific screening approach, to improve use of staff time without compromising quality of care. An alternative model (AM) was designed, where a pre-designed selection process was used to sort new patients for either a comprehensive evaluation or a screening procedure, addressing medical, developmental and social issues with the additional use of developmental screening tools. A routine clinic (RC) comprehensive evaluation of each referral, was compared to the AM for waiting time, charges for patients, reimbursement to the center, and parents' and professional trainees' satisfaction. Results showed that waiting time for the screening procedure (10.3 weeks) was significantly reduced (RC 20.6 weeks). Charges for the screening procedure were significantly lower, but center revenues were not affected. Caregivers' satisfaction was maintained and trainees' satisfaction was high. The AM identified medical concerns sooner and encouraged collaboration with community resources. This study supports the use of an Alternative Developmental Evaluation paradigm for more effective use of interdisciplinary teams in centers for neurodevelopmental disabilities.

Child↗

PubMed2005

Effects of long-term psychostimulant medication on growth of children with ADHD.

The objective was to assess the effects of long-term psychostimulant medication on growth parameters in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Eighty-nine children diagnosed with ADHD treated by prescribed psychostimulant medications were followed with repeated growth measures over a 3 years duration. Anthropometric measurements were recorded at baseline, 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months. Medical records were reviewed for demographic information, medication side effects and appetite suppression. Body mass index (BMI) and z-scores were determined at each follow up visit. Descriptive and analytical analyses by repeated measures analysis of varianc were performed. Significant weight loss was documented mostly during the first few months of treatment with stimulants. Although z-scores for weight showed significant changes over the 2 years of treatment, further analysis of the changes did not reach clinical significance. BMI growth was within normal limits throughout the duration of treatment. Baseline weight predicted weight loss for heavier children only. Pre-pubertal children were more subject to weight loss than children during puberty, as well as children for which appetite suppression was reported. No long-term impact on height was noted. Different stimulant medication did not differ in their effects on growth. Generally, parents and providers can be reassured that growth changes with long-term stimulant therapy are not clinically significant for a diverse group of children with ADHD.

Anthropometry↗