Biomedical subjects

F DeRuyter

Publications and source records attributed to F DeRuyter.

5 recordsLinked to original sources

PubMed2003

A framework for the conceptual modelling of assistive technology device outcomes.

PURPOSE: A key step in planning assistive technology outcomes research is formulation of a conceptual model, specific to a particular type of device, that provides a rationale for the expected outcomes. This paper reflects the conviction that the development of device-specific causal models will be facilitated by having available an overarching framework that is potentially applicable to multifarious types of devices and their outcomes. METHOD: A literature review identified the critical, unmet needs for a conceptual framework. The assumptions underlying the framework were specified preparatory to describing it and discussing its implications. RESULTS: The outcomes of assistive technology devices are depicted as resulting from the interaction among characteristics of a specific device-type, its users, and their environment. Initial junctures include procurement of a type of device and a period of introductory use that, interacting with various moderating co-factors, result in a variety of shorter-term outcomes, possible longer-term use, and its outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: The framework has the potential of facilitating the development of device-specific causal models. It also may contribute to developing a research agenda for assistive technology outcomes research by highlighting measures that need to be developed and by identifying testable hypotheses concerned, for example, with the manner and duration of devices' usage.

Persons with Disabilities↗

PubMed1996

Treatment efficacy: aphasia.

This article presents a brief overview of aphasia, followed by a summary of research studies and program evaluation data addressed to answering the question of the efficacy of treatment for aphasia. Selected studies are reviewed in terms of the quality of evidence they present. In addition, a number of questions that remain unanswered are also presented. Several tables, designed to provide clarifying information concerning several aspects of research design (number and types of patients studied, examples of well-designed small-group or single-subject studies, clinical techniques for which efficacy data are available), are included. The conclusion of this review is that, generally, treatment for aphasia is efficacious.

Aphasia↗

PubMed1996

Treatment efficacy: cognitive-communicative disorders resulting from traumatic brain injury in adults.

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) may result in a broad array of cognitive-communicative impairments. Cognitive-communicative impairments are the result of deficits in linguistic and nonlinguistic cognitive functions. The speech-language pathologist functions as a member of the multidisciplinary team of professionals that collaboratively assess and treat individuals with TBI. The role of the speech-language pathologist includes assessment of all aspects of communication, as well as the communicative implications of cognitive deficits, and swallowing; treatment planning and programming, as determined by the individual's stage of recovery; client and family training/counseling; and interdisciplinary consultation. The effectiveness of speech and language intervention for specific cognitive deficits (e.g., attention, memory, executive functions) as well as general issues of social-skills training and early intervention are illustrated by scientific and clinical evidence from group-treatment and single-subject studies as well as case studies.

Activities of Daily Living↗

PubMed1995

Evaluating outcomes in assistive technology: do we understand the commitment?

Evaluating assistive technology (AT) services to demonstrate quality or to measure outcomes is the ethical obligation of the entire AT community. Accountability must be accepted by all stakeholders in order to evaluate all aspects of service delivery. Developing an integrated system will require addressing issues that the AT community has not previously had to face. These challenges have been highlighted.

Consumer Behavior↗

PubMed1980

Hearing sensitivity and measurements of middle ear and eustachian tube function after maxillary osteotomy with advancement surgery.

The nature of audiologic changes after maxillary osteotomy with advancement surgery has not been fully documented. The purpose of this investigation was to better understand the potential alteration of eustachian tube, middle ear pressure and static compliance, and hearing sensitivity in individuals undergoing this type of surgical procedure. Pure tone audiometry and evaluation of middle ear and eustachian tube function were done on seven patients preoperatively and at the 3rd, 6th, and 12th postoperative weeks. Results indicated that, although hearing sensitivity and middle ear and eustachian tube function change from the normal preoperative state during the early postoperative recovery period, they return to normal limits by the 12th postoperative week. These changes suggest the importance of carefully audiologic status in patients undergoing this type of procedure.

Acoustic Impedance Tests↗