Modeling of a controlled flow cup for improved transitional drinking development in children.

Introduction: Clinical observations of children with swallowing disorders using a traditional "sippy" or transitional drinking cup identified a need for a novel cup. Children with swallowing disorders are often unable to initiate the forces required to activate the cup and/or maintain suction pressure. Furthermore, fast flow rates can result in choking.

The Impact of a Novel Gaming Reinforcement System on Oral Intake Outcomes in Pediatric Feeding Therapy: A Single Case Study.

Purpose The aim of this study was to implement a novel reinforcement strategy into traditional dysphagia therapy with a school-age child diagnosed with a rare genetic syndrome, anxiety, and a hypersensitive gag reflex response. This clinical focus article evaluated the impact of a computer-based straw-drinking game on total liquid volume intake and the relationship between motivation and its role in feeding therapy. Method A longitudinal pilot study was used and required the development and implementation of a computer-based straw-drinking game as a novel reinforcement strategy.

Correction to: A Comparison of Measurements of a Pediatric Supplement.

The original version of this article unfortunately contained mistakes.

A Comparison of Measurements of a Pediatric Supplement.

This study evaluated the flow properties of viscosity and flow rate for water and two common pediatric liquids. The flow properties of the test liquids are of interest to create a cup simulation model and "smart" prototype training cup. Two objective methods of determining flow properties were utilized: a rheometer to assess viscosity and a modified version of the International Dysphagia Diet Standardization Initiative (IDDSI) to assess flow rate.

Open-Cup Drinking Development: A Review of the Literature.

To date, a lack of published research studies exist that systematically analyze the factors involved with the progression of open-cup drinking in typically developing infants and toddlers. As a result, clinicians who are working with children that have delays in open-cup drinking development have a limited framework from which to base clinical decisions. The purpose of this review is to collate works from disparate and related fields to provide a brief review of the literature of pertinent sensorimotor and cognitive components necessary for successful open-cup drinking development.

Altering the gag reflex via a palm pressure point.

Background: The gag reflex regularly interferes with dental procedures. The authors hypothesize that applying pressure to a specific point on the palm alters the gag reflex and that hypersensitive gag reflexes may be categorized according to oropharyngeal landmarks.

Methods: Thirty-six neurologically intact subjects underwent a series of gag reflex trials (baseline, sham and treatment).

System design for a pediatric physical therapy strength testing glove.

The goal of this project is to develop a strength testing glove that will improve current methods of muscle strength measurement by enabling physical and occupational therapists to quantitatively assess patient progress. The project was realized through research, human testing, prototype construction, component testing, and analysis of data. This design will provide a cheaper, more flexible, more versatile, and more quantitative method of muscle strength measurement for medical professionals.