A randomized, controlled pilot trial of a school intervention for children with sickle cell anemia.

Objective: To investigate the feasibility and efficacy of a randomized clinical pilot trial comparing routine services (RS) with a school intervention program (SIP) for children with sickle cell anemia (SCA).

Method: Twenty-four children (ages 8-12 years) with SCA were randomized to RS or SIP. General disease knowledge, consumer satisfaction, self-concept, and school absences were evaluated.

Improving pediatric compliance with positive airway pressure therapy: the impact of behavioral intervention.

Study Objective: The purposes of this study were (1) to describe behavior interventions provided to improve compliance with positive airway pressure (PAP) therapies in children with obstructive sleep apnea, (2) to survey physician and caregiver satisfaction with these interventions, and (3) to present preliminary outcome data on the effects of these interventions.

Design: Retrospective, descriptive analysis.

Setting: Pediatric psychology consultation service at a university-affiliated rehabilitation hospital.

Operant-contingency-based preparation of children for functional magnetic resonance imaging.

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is used to study brain function during behavioral tasks. The participation of pediatric subjects is problematic because reliable task performance and control of head movement are simultaneously required. Differential reinforcement decreased head motion and improved vigilance task performance in 4 children (2 with behavioral disorders) undergoing simulated fMRI scans.