The (extended) achondroplasia foramen magnum score has good observer reliability.

BACKGROUND: Achondroplasia is the most common skeletal dysplasia. A significant complication is foramen magnum stenosis. When severe, compression of the spinal cord may result in sleep apnea, sudden respiratory arrest and death. To avoid complications, surgical decompression of the craniocervical junction is offered in at-risk cases. However, practice varies among centres. To standardize magnetic resonance (MR) reporting, the achondroplasia foramen magnum score was recently developed. The reliability of the score has not been assessed. OBJECTIVE: To assess the interobserver reliability of the achondroplasia foramen magnum score. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Base of skull imaging of children with achondroplasia under the care of Sheffield Children's Hospital was retrospectively and independently reviewed by four observers using the achondroplasia foramen magnum score. Two-way random-effects intraclass coefficient (ICC) was used to assess inter- and intra-observer reliability. RESULTS: Forty-nine eligible cases and five controls were included. Of these, 10 were scored normal, 17 had a median score of 1 (mild narrowing), 11 had a median score of 2 (effacement of cerebral spinal fluid), 10 had a score of 3 (compression of cord) and 6 had a median score of 4 (cord myelopathic change). Interobserver ICC was 0.72 (95% confidence interval = 0.62-0.81). Intra-observer ICC ranged from 0.60 to 0.86. Reasons for reader disagreement included flow void artefact, subtle T2 cord signal and myelopathic T2 cord change disproportionate to canal narrowing. CONCLUSION: The achondroplasia foramen magnum score has good interobserver reliability. Imaging features leading to interobserver disagreement have been identified. Further research is required to prospectively validate the score against clinical outcomes.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in respiratory samples in children with neurodisability-to treat or not to treat?

The objective was to investigate the prevalence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) in patients with complex neurodisability and current treatment practice in our centre in order to inform future guidelines. A retrospective case note review was undertaken at a tertiary children's hospital. One hundred sixty-two patients (mean age 11.7 years) with a primary diagnosis of neuromuscular disease (NMD) or severe cerebral palsy (CP) and a respiratory sample sent for analysis during the study period were studied. Associations between PA in respiratory samples and diagnosis, long-term ventilation, presence of a gastrostomy or a tracheostomy, antibiotic choice, clinical deterioration and adverse events were analysed. Twenty-five (15%) had one or more PA isolate in respiratory samples. There was a significant association between PA in respiratory samples and tracheostomy (p<0.05). In 52% samples, multiple pathogens co-existed. There was no significant association between choice of antibiotic and clinical outcome but when antibiotics were changed to specific PA antibiotics during the course of the illness, all resulted in clinical improvement. Twenty-six episodes involving 8 patients with recurrent admissions involved PA organisms that were resistant to one or more antibiotics.Conclusions: A larger prospective study may establish clearer criteria for guideline development. Techniques such as point-of-care testing to identify virulent strains of PA may improve patient outcomes and prevent the development of antibiotic resistance in the future. What is Known: •Children with complex neurodisability are at increased risk of respiratory morbidity and of infection with gram-negative organisms such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa. •There are currently no guidelines to inform treatment choices in this group of vulnerable children. What is New: •15% children in this study population had Pseudomonas aeruginosa in respiratory samples during a 12-month period, the majority of whom did not require critical care treatment. Thirteen of these children had a tracheostomy in situ and 12 did not.  •In those that deteriorated clinically or developed antibiotic resistant organisms, earlier detection and targeted treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa may have prevented deterioration.

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Contributes to Executive Function Impairment in Young Children with Down Syndrome.

OBJECTIVE/BACKGROUND: Children with Down syndrome (DS) commonly experience difficulties with executive function (EF). They are also vulnerable to obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). OSA is associated with EF deficits in typically developing children. A recent study reported an association between OSA and cognitive deficits in 38 school-aged children with DS. We experimentally investigated EF behaviours in young children with DS, and their association with OSA. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS: Children with DS were recruited to take part in a larger study of OSA (N = 202). Parents of 80 children (50 male) aged 36 to 71 months (M = 56.90, SD = 10.19 months) completed the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function - Preschool Version (BRIEF-P). Of these 80 children, 69 were also successfully studied overnight with domiciliary cardiorespiratory polygraphy to diagnose OSA. RESULTS: Obstructive apnoea/hypopnoea index was in the normal range (0-1.49/h) for 28 children but indicated OSA (≥1.5/h) in 41 children. Consistent with previous research, we found a large effect for children experiencing particular weaknesses in working memory, planning and organising, whilst emotional control was a relative strength. OSA was associated with poorer working memory (ß = .23, R2 = .05, p = .025), emotional control (ß = .20, R2 = .04, p = .047) and shifting (ß = .24, R2 = .06, p = .023). CONCLUSIONS: Findings suggest that known EF difficulties in DS are already evident at this young age. Children with DS already have limited cognitive reserve and can ill afford additional EF deficit associated with OSA. OSA is amenable to treatment and should be actively treated in these children to promote optimal cognitive development.

Oral melatonin for non-respiratory sleep disturbance in children with neurodisabilities: systematic review and meta-analyses.

AIM: To evaluate the effectiveness of pharmacological interventions for managing non-respiratory sleep disturbances in children with neurodisabilities. METHOD: We performed a systematic review and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). We searched 16 databases, grey literature, and reference lists of included papers up to February 2017. Data were extracted and assessed for quality by two researchers (B.B., C.M., G.S., A.S., A.P.). RESULTS: Thirteen trials were included, all evaluating oral melatonin. All except one were at high or unclear risk of bias. There was a statistically significant increase in diary-reported total sleep time for melatonin compared with placebo (pooled mean difference 29.6min, 95% confidence interval [CI] 6.9-52.4, p=0.01). Statistical heterogeneity was high (97%). For the single RCT with low risk of bias, the unadjusted mean difference in total sleep time was 13.2 minutes (95% CI -13.3 to 39.7) favouring melatonin, while the mean difference adjusted for baseline total sleep time was statistically significant (22.4min, 95% CI 0.5-44.3, p=0.04). Adverse event profile suggested that melatonin was well-tolerated. INTERPRETATION: There is a paucity of evidence on managing sleep disturbances in children with neurodisabilities, and it is mostly of limited scope and poor quality. There is evidence of the benefit and safety of melatonin compared with placebo, although the extent of this benefit is unclear. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: Melatonin for the management of non-respiratory sleep disturbances in children with neurodisabilities was well tolerated with minimal adverse effects. The extent of benefit and which children might benefit most from melatonin use is uncertain. Benefit may be greatest in those with autism spectrum disorder; however, this finding should be interpreted with caution.

Melatonina oral para la alteración del sueño no respiratoria en niños con trastornos del neurodesarrollo: revisión sistemática y metaanálisis OBJETIVO: Evaluar la efectividad de las intervenciones farmacológicas para el tratamiento de los trastornos del sueño no respiratorios en niños con trastornos del neurodesarrollo. MÉTODO: Se realizó una revisión sistemática y un metaanálisis de ensayos controlados aleatorios (ECA). Se realizaron búsquedas en 16 bases de datos, literatura gris y listas de referencias de los artículos incluidos hasta febrero de 2.017. Dos investigadores extrajeron y evaluaron la calidad de la calidad. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron trece ensayos, todos evaluaron la melatonina oral. Todos excepto uno tenía un riesgo alto o incierto de sesgo. Hubo un aumento estadísticamente significativo en el tiempo total de sueño informado por los registros - usando diarios de datos - para la melatonina en comparación con el placebo (diferencia de medias agrupada 29,6 min, intervalo de confianza [IC] del 95% [IC] 6,9-52,4, p = 0,01). La heterogeneidad estadística fue alta (97%). Para el ECA único con bajo riesgo de sesgo, la diferencia media no ajustada en el tiempo total de sueño fue de 13,2 minutos (IC del 95% −13,3 a 39,7) favoreciendo a la melatonina, mientras que la diferencia media ajustada para el tiempo total de sueño basal fue estadísticamente significativa (22,4 min. IC del 95%: 0,5-44,3, p = 0,04). El perfil de eventos adversos sugirió que la melatonina fue bien tolerada. INTERPRETACIÓN: Existe una escasez de evidencia sobre el manejo de los trastornos del sueño en niños con trastornos del neurodesarrollo, los datos actuales son principalmente de alcance limitado y de mala calidad. Existe evidencia del beneficio y la seguridad de la melatonina en comparación con el placebo, aunque el alcance de este beneficio no está claro.

Melatonina oral para distúrbios não-respiratórios do sono em crianças com neuro-incapacidades: revisão sistemática e metanálise OBJETIVO: Avaliar a efetividade de intervenções farmacológicas para o manejo de distúrbios não-respiratórios do sono em crianças com neuro-incapacidades. MÉTODO: Realizamos uma revisão sistemática e metanálise de ensaios clínicos randomizados (ECRs). Buscamos 16 bases de dados, literatura cinzenta, e listas de referências dos artigos incluídos até fevereiro de 2017. Os dados foram extraídos e avaliados quanto a sua qualidade por dois pesquisadores. RESULTADOS: Treze estudos foram incluídos, todos avaliando a melatonina oral. Todos, com exceção de um, tinham risco de viés alto ou não esclarecido. Houve aumento estatisticamente significativo no tempo total de sono reportado em diário para melatonina comparada com placebo (diferença média agrupada 29,6min, intervalo de confiança [IC] 95% 6,9-52,4, p = 0,01). A heterogeneidade estatística foi alta (97%). Para o único ECR com baixo risco de viés, a diferença média não ajustada no tempo total de sono foi 13,2 minutos (IC 95% −13,3 a 39,7) em favor da melatonina, enquanto a diferença média ajustada para o tempo total de sono na linha de base foi estatisticamente significativa (22,4min, IC 95% 0,5-44,3, p = 0,04). O perfil de eventos adversos sugeriu que a melatonina foi bem tolerada. INTERPRETAÇÃO: Há escassez de evidência sobre o manejo de distúrbios do sono em crianças com neuroincapacidades, e a mesma tem escopo limitado e pouca qualidade. Há evidência do benefício e segurança da melatonina comparada com o placebo, embora e extensão do benefício não esteja clara.

Exploratory Study to Evaluate Respiratory Rate Using a Thermal Imaging Camera.

BACKGROUND: Respiratory rate is a vital physiological measurement used in the immediate assessment of unwell children and adults. Convenient electronic devices exist for the measurement of pulse, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and temperature. Although devices which measure respiratory rate exist, none have entered everyday clinical practice for acute assessment of children and adults. An accurate and practical device which has no physical contact with the patient is important to ensure readings are not affected by distress caused by the assessment method. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of a thermal imaging method to monitor the respiratory rate in children and adults. METHODS: Facial thermal images of adult volunteers and children undergoing elective polysomnography were included. Respiration was recorded for at least 2 min with the camera positioned 1 m from the subject's face. Values obtained using the thermal imaging camera were compared with those obtained from contact methods such as the nasal thermistor, respiratory inductance plethysmography, nasal airflow, and end tidal CO2. RESULTS: A total of 61 subjects, including 41 adults (age range 27-46 years) and 20 children (age range 0.5-18 years) were enrolled. The correlation between the respiratory rate measured using thermal imaging and the contact method was r = 0.94. Sequential refinements to the thermal imaging algorithms resulted in the ability to perform real-time measurements and an improvement of the correlation to r = 0.995. CONCLUSION: This exploratory study shows that thermal imaging-derived respiratory rates in children and adults correlate closely with the best performing standard method. With further refinements, this method could be implemented in both acute and chronic care in children and adults.

Non-pharmacological interventions for non-respiratory sleep disturbance in children with neurodisabilities: a systematic review.

AIM: To describe existing evidence on non-pharmacological interventions to manage sleep disturbance in children with neurodisabilities. METHOD: We systematically reviewed non-pharmacological interventions aimed at improving non-respiratory sleep disturbance in children with neurodisability. Sixteen databases, grey literature, and reference lists of included papers were searched up to February 2017. Two researchers (B.B., C.M., G.S., A.S., A.P.) undertook screening, data extraction, and quality appraisal. RESULTS: Twenty-five studies were included: 11 randomized controlled trials and 14 before-and-after studies. All studies were at high or unclear risk of bias. Parent-directed interventions were categorized as comprehensive tailored interventions (n=9), comprehensive non-tailored interventions (n=8), and non-comprehensive interventions (n=2). Six 'other' non-pharmacological interventions were included. Seventy-one child and parent sleep-related outcomes were measured across the included studies. We report the two most commonly measured outcomes: the Child Sleep Habits Questionnaire and sleep onset latency. Five studies reported significant improvements on at least one of these outcomes. INTERPRETATION: Various types of non-pharmacological intervention for managing sleep disturbance have been evaluated. Clinical heterogeneity and poor study quality meant we could not draw definitive conclusions on the effectiveness of these interventions. Current clinical guidance recommends parent-directed interventions as the first approach to managing sleep disturbance; prioritizing research in this area is recommended. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: Existing evidence on non-pharmacological interventions to manage sleep disturbance in children with neurodisabilities is predominately of poor quality. Most included studies evaluated parent-directed interventions of varying content and intensity. There was very little consistency between studies in the outcome measures used. There is some evidence that parent-directed interventions may improve child outcomes.

STAAR: a randomised controlled trial of electronic adherence monitoring with reminder alarms and feedback to improve clinical outcomes for children with asthma.

BACKGROUND: Suboptimal adherence to inhaled steroids is common in children with asthma and is associated with poor disease control, reduced quality of life and even death. Previous studies using feedback of electronically monitored adherence data have demonstrated improved adherence, but have not demonstrated a significant impact on clinical outcomes. The aim of this study was to determine whether introduction of this approach into routine practice would result in improved clinical outcomes. METHODS: Children with asthma aged 6-16 years were randomised to the active intervention consisting of electronic adherence monitoring with daily reminder alarms together with feedback in the clinic regarding their inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) use or to the usual care arm with adherence monitoring alone. All children had poorly controlled asthma at baseline, taking ICS and long-acting ß-agonists. Subjects were seen in routine clinics every 3 months for 1 year. The primary outcome was the Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) score. Secondary outcomes included adherence and markers of asthma morbidity. RESULTS: 77 of 90 children completed the study (39 interventions, 38 controls). Adherence in the intervention group was 70% vs 49% in the control group (p≤0.001). There was no significant difference in the change in ACQ, but children in the intervention group required significantly fewer courses of oral steroids (p=0.008) and fewer hospital admissions (p≤0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that electronic adherence monitoring with feedback is likely to be of significant benefit in the routine management of poorly controlled asthmatic subjects. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT02451709; pre-result.

Single versus combination intravenous anti-pseudomonal antibiotic therapy for people with cystic fibrosis.

BACKGROUND: Choice of antibiotic, and the use of single or combined therapy are controversial areas in the treatment of respiratory infection due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa in cystic fibrosis (CF). Advantages of combination therapy include wider range of modes of action, possible synergy and reduction of resistant organisms; advantages of monotherapy include lower cost, ease of administration and reduction of drug-related toxicity. Current evidence does not provide a clear answer and the use of intravenous antibiotic therapy in cystic fibrosis requires further evaluation. This is an update of a previously published review. OBJECTIVES: To assess the effectiveness of single compared to combination intravenous anti-pseudomonal antibiotic therapy for treating people with cystic fibrosis. SEARCH METHODS: We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group Trials Register, comprising references identified from comprehensive electronic database searches and handsearches of relevant journals and abstract books of conference proceedings.Most recent search of the Group's Trials Register: 14 October 2016. SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing a single intravenous anti-pseudomonal antibiotic with a combination of that antibiotic plus a second anti-pseudomonal antibiotic in people with CF. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two authors independently assessed trial quality and extracted data. MAIN RESULTS: We identified 45 trials, of which eight trials (356 participants) comparing a single anti-pseudomonal agent to a combination of the same antibiotic and one other, were included.There was a wide variation in the individual antibiotics used in each trial. In total, the trials included seven comparisons of a beta-lactam antibiotic (penicillin-related or third generation cephalosporin) with a beta-lactam-aminoglycoside combination and three comparisons of an aminoglycoside with a beta-lactam-aminoglycoside combination. These two groups of trials were analysed as separate subgroups.There was considerable heterogeneity amongst these trials, leading to difficulties in performing the review and interpreting the results. The meta-analysis did not demonstrate any significant differences between monotherapy and combination therapy, in terms of lung function; symptom scores; adverse effects; and bacteriological outcome measures.These results should be interpreted cautiously. Six of the included trials were published between 1977 and 1988; these were single-centre trials with flaws in the randomisation process and small sample size. Overall, the methodological quality was poor. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: The results of this review are inconclusive. The review raises important methodological issues. There is a need for an RCT which needs to be well-designed in terms of adequate randomisation allocation, blinding, power and long-term follow up. Results need to be standardised to a consistent method of reporting, in order to validate the pooling of results from multiple trials.

Antifungal therapies for allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis in people with cystic fibrosis.

BACKGROUND: Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) is an allergic reaction to colonisation of the lungs with the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus and affects around 10% of people with cystic fibrosis. ABPA is associated with an accelerated decline in lung function. High doses of corticosteroids are the main treatment for ABPA; although the long-term benefits are not clear, their many side effects are well-documented. A group of compounds, the azoles, have activity against Aspergillus fumigatus and have been proposed as an alternative treatment for ABPA. Of this group, itraconazole is the most active. A separate antifungal compound, amphotericin B, has been employed in aerosolised form to treat invasive infection with Aspergillus fumigatus, and may have potential for the treatment of ABPA. Antifungal therapy for ABPA in cystic fibrosis needs to be evaluated. This is an update of a previously published review. OBJECTIVES: The review aimed to test the hypotheses that antifungal interventions for the treatment of ABPA in cystic fibrosis:1. improve clinical status compared to placebo or standard therapy (no placebo);2. do not have unacceptable adverse effects.If benefit was demonstrated, we aimed to assess the optimal type, duration and dose of antifungal therapy. SEARCH METHODS: We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group Trials Register which comprises references identified from comprehensive electronic database searches, handsearches of relevant journals and abstract books of conference proceedings.In addition, pharmaceutical companies were approached.Date of the most recent search of the Group's Trials Register: 29 September 2016. SELECTION CRITERIA: Published or unpublished randomised controlled trials, where antifungal treatments have been compared to either placebo or no treatment, or where different doses of the same treatment have been used in the treatment of ABPA in people with cystic fibrosis. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Four trials were identified by the searches; none of which was judged eligible for inclusion in the review. MAIN RESULTS: No completed randomised controlled trials were included. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: At present, there are no randomised controlled trials to evaluate the use of antifungal therapies for the treatment of ABPA in people with cystic fibrosis, although trials in people who do not have cystic fibrosis have shown clinical and serological evidence of improvement and a reduction in the use of corticosteroids with no increase in adverse effects. Trials with clear outcome measures are needed to properly evaluate this potentially useful treatment for cystic fibrosis.

Antifungal therapies for allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis in people with cystic fibrosis.

BACKGROUND: Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) is an allergic reaction to colonisation of the lungs with the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus and affects around 10% of people with cystic fibrosis. ABPA is associated with an accelerated decline in lung function. High doses of corticosteroids are the main treatment for ABPA; although the long-term benefits are not clear, their many side effects are well-documented. A group of compounds, the azoles, have activity against Aspergillus fumigatus and have been proposed as an alternative treatment for ABPA. Of this group, itraconazole is the most active. A separate antifungal compound, amphotericin B, has been employed in aerosolised form to treat invasive infection with Aspergillus fumigatus, and may have potential for the treatment of ABPA. Antifungal therapy for ABPA in cystic fibrosis needs to be evaluated. OBJECTIVES: The review aimed to test the hypotheses that antifungal interventions for the treatment of ABPA in cystic fibrosis:1. improve clinical status compared to placebo or standard therapy (no placebo);2. do not have unacceptable adverse effects.If benefit was demonstrated, we aimed to assess the optimal type, duration and dose of antifungal therapy. SEARCH METHODS: We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group Trials Register which comprises references identified from comprehensive electronic database searches, handsearches of relevant journals and abstract books of conference proceedings.In addition, pharmaceutical companies were approached.Date of the most recent search of the Group's Trials Register: 17 March 2014. SELECTION CRITERIA: Published or unpublished randomised controlled trials, where antifungal treatments have been compared to either placebo or no treatment, or where different doses of the same treatment have been used in the treatment of ABPA in people with cystic fibrosis. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Four trials were identified by the searches; none of which was judged eligible for inclusion in the review. MAIN RESULTS: No completed randomised controlled trials were included. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: At present, there are no randomised controlled trials to evaluate the use of antifungal therapies for the treatment of ABPA in people with cystic fibrosis, although trials in people who do not have cystic fibrosis have shown clinical and serological evidence of improvement and a reduction in the use of corticosteroids with no increase in adverse effects. Trials with clear outcome measures are needed to properly evaluate this potentially useful treatment for cystic fibrosis.

Single versus combination intravenous antibiotic therapy for people with cystic fibrosis.

BACKGROUND: Choice of antibiotic, and the use of single or combined therapy are controversial areas in the treatment of respiratory infection in cystic fibrosis (CF). Advantages of combination therapy include wider range of modes of action, possible synergy and reduction of resistant organisms; advantages of monotherapy include lower cost, ease of administration and reduction of drug-related toxicity. Current evidence does not provide a clear answer and the use of intravenous antibiotic therapy in CF requires further evaluation. OBJECTIVES: To assess the effectiveness of single compared to combination intravenous antibiotic therapy for treating people with CF. SEARCH METHODS: We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group Trials Register, comprising references identified from comprehensive electronic database searches and handsearches of relevant journals and abstract books of conference proceedings.Most recent search of the Group's Trials Register: 22 August 2013. SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing a single intravenous antibiotic with a combination of that antibiotic plus a second antibiotic in people with CF. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two authors independently assessed trial quality and extracted data. MAIN RESULTS: We identified 43 trials, of which eight trials (356 participants) comparing a single agent to a combination of the same antibiotic and one other, were included.There was a wide variation in the individual antibiotics used in each trial. In total, the trials included seven comparisons of a beta-lactam antibiotic (penicillin-related or third generation cephalosporin) with a beta-lactam-aminoglycoside combination and three comparisons of an aminoglycoside with a beta-lactam-aminoglycoside combination. These two groups of trials were analysed as separate subgroups.There was considerable heterogeneity amongst these trials, leading to difficulties in performing the review and interpreting the results. The meta-analysis did not demonstrate any significant differences between monotherapy and combination therapy, in terms of lung function; symptom scores; adverse effects; and bacteriological outcome measures.These results should be interpreted cautiously. Six of the included trials were published between 1977 and 1988; these were single-centre trials with flaws in the randomisation process and small sample size. Overall, the methodological quality was poor. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: The results of this review are inconclusive. The review raises important methodological issues. There is a need for an RCT which needs to be well-designed in terms of adequate randomisation allocation, blinding, power and long-term follow up. Results need to be standardised to a consistent method of reporting, in order to validate the pooling of results from multiple trials.

A systematic review on automatic identification of insomnia.

Insomnia is a prevalent sleep disorder characterized by difficulties in initiating sleep or experiencing non-restorative sleep. It is a multifaceted condition that impacts both the quantity and quality of an individual's sleep. Recent advancements in machine learning (ML), and deep learning (DL) have enabled automated sleep analysis using physiological signals. This has led to the development of technologies for more accurate detection of various sleep disorders, including insomnia. This paper explores the algorithms and techniques for automatic insomnia detection. Methods: We followed the recommendations given in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) during our process of content discovery. Our review encompasses research papers published between 2015 and 2023, with a specific emphasis on automating the identification of insomnia. From a se- lection of well-regarded journals, we included more than 30 publications dedicated to insomnia detection. In our analysis, we assessed the performance of various meth- ods for detecting insomnia, considering different datasets and physiological signals. A common thread across all the papers we reviewed was the utilization of artificial intel- ligence (AI) models, trained and tested using annotated physiological signals. Upon closer examination, we identified the utilization of 15 distinct algorithms for this de- tection task. Results: Result: The major goal of this research is to conduct a thorough study to categorize, compare, and assess the key traits of automated systems for identifying insomnia. Our analysis offers complete and in-depth information. The essential com- ponents under investigation in the automated technique include the data input source, objective, machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) network, training framework, and references to databases. We classified pertinent research studies based on ML and DL model perspectives, considering factors like learning structure and input data types. Conclusion: Based on our review of the studies featured in this paper, we have identi- fied a notable research gap in the current methods for identifying insomnia and oppor- tunities for future advancements in the automation of insomnia detection. While the current techniques have shown promising results, there is still room for improvement in terms of accuracy and reliability. Future developments in technology and machine learning algorithms could help address these limitations and enable more effective and efficient identification of insomnia. .

Review of implementation models for children's sleep support services in the UK.

Sleep deprivation has a serious impact on physical and mental health. Children with neurodevelopmental disorders are frequently affected by chronic insomnia, defined as difficulty in either initiating sleep, maintaining sleep continuity or poor sleep quality which can lead to long-term detrimental effects on behaviour, learning and development.Interventions to address chronic insomnia in children include both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches. While some children unequivocally benefit from pharmacological treatment, recommendations suggest an intervention based on cognitive-behavioural techniques involving a thorough assessment of the child's sleep pattern, environment and psychosocial factors supporting the child to learn to self-soothe as first-line treatment. Evidence from sleep clinics delivered by trained community practitioners supports the efficacy of an intensive programme, whereby education, practical advice and follow-up support were key factors; however, these services are inconsistently resourced. In practice, sleep support interventions range from verbal advice given in clinics to healthy sleep leaflets to tailored and non-tailored parent-directed interventions. Delivery models include promotion of safe sleep within a wider health promotion context and targeted early intervention within sleep clinics delivered in health and community services or by the third sector but evidence for each model is lacking.We describe a comprehensive whole systems city-wide model of sleep support, ranging from awareness raising, universal settings, targeted support for complex situations to specialist support, delivered according to complexity and breadth of need. By building capacity and quality assurance into the existing workforce, the service has been sustainable and has continued to develop since its initial implementation in 2017. With increasing access to specialist sleep services across the UK, this model could become a widely generalisable approach for delivery of sleep services to children in the UK and lead to improved outcomes in those with severe sleep deprivation.

Current advances and gaps in knowledge on personalizing masks for non-invasive respiratory support: a scoping review.

Non-invasive respiratory support delivered through a face mask has become a cornerstone treatment for adults and children with acute or chronic respiratory failure. However, an imperfect mask fit using commercially available interfaces is frequently encountered, which may result in patient discomfort and treatment inefficiency or failure. To overcome this challenge, over the last decade increasing attention has been given to the development of personalized face masks, which are custom made to address the specific facial dimensions of an individual patient. With this scoping review we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the current advances and gaps in knowledge regarding the personalization of ventilation masks. We performed a systematic search of the literature, and identified and summarized a total of 23 studies. Most studies included were involved in the development of nasal masks. Studies targeting adult respiratory care mainly focused on chronic (home) ventilation and included some clinical testing in a relevant subject population. In contrast, pediatric studies focused mostly on respiratory support in the acute setting, while testing was limited to bench or case studies only. Most studies were positive regarding the performance (i.e. comfort, level of air leak and mask pressure applied to the skin) of personalized masks in bench testing or in human, healthy or patient, subjects. Advances in the field of 3D scanning and soft material printing were identified, but important gaps in knowledge remain. In particular, more insight into cushion materials, headgear design, clinical feasibility and cost-effectiveness is needed, before definite recommendations can be made regarding implementation of large scale clinical programs that personalize non-invasive respiratory support masks for adults and children.

Oxygen therapy for cystic fibrosis.

BACKGROUND: The most serious complications of cystic fibrosis (CF) relate to respiratory insufficiency. Oxygen supplementation therapy has long been a standard of care for individuals with chronic lung diseases associated with hypoxemia. Physicians commonly prescribe oxygen therapy for people with CF when hypoxemia occurs. However, it is unclear if empiric evidence is available to provide indications for this therapy with its financial costs and often profound impact on lifestyle. OBJECTIVES: To assess whether oxygen therapy improves the longevity or quality of life of individuals with CF. SEARCH METHODS: We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group Trials Register, comprising references identified from comprehensive electronic database searches and handsearches of relevant journals and abstract books of conference proceedings.Latest search of Group's Trials Register: 15 May 2013. SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomized or quasi-randomized controlled trials comparing oxygen, administered at any concentration, by any route, in people with documented CF for any time period. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Authors independently assessed the risk of bias for included studies and extracted data. MAIN RESULTS: This review includes 11 published studies (172 participants); only one examined long-term oxygen therapy (28 participants). There was no statistically significant improvement in survival, lung, or cardiac health. There was an improvement in regular attendance at school or work in those receiving oxygen therapy at 6 and 12 months. Four studies examined the effect of oxygen supplementation during sleep by polysomnography. Although oxygenation improved, mild hypercapnia was noted. Participants fell asleep quicker and spent a reduced percentage of total sleep time in rapid eye movement sleep, but there were no demonstrable improvements in qualitative sleep parameters. Six studies evaluated oxygen supplementation during exercise. Again, oxygenation improved, but mild hypercapnia resulted. Participants receiving oxygen therapy were able to exercise for a significantly longer duration during exercise. Other exercise parameters were not altered by the use of oxygen. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: There are no published data to guide the prescription of chronic oxygen supplementation to people with advanced lung disease due to CF. Short-term oxygen therapy during sleep and exercise improves oxygenation but is associated with modest and probably clinically inconsequential hypercapnia. There are improvements in exercise duration, time to fall asleep and regular attendance at school or work. There is a need for larger, well-designed clinical trials to assess the benefits of long-term oxygen therapy in people with CF administered continuously or during exercise or sleep or both. However, we do not expect any new research to be undertaken in this area any time soon and do not plan to update this review again until any new evidence does become available.

Evaluation of the efficacy of asthma information videos ('Moving On Asthma') at improving knowledge in teenage children.

INTRODUCTION: Asthma is a common inflammatory condition that can be life threatening. The National Review of Asthma Deaths (2014) recommended: Parents and children…should be educated about managing asthma. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of an educational video on asthma at improving knowledge in adolescent children. METHODS: A 3-min asthma education video was shown to young people aged 13-15 years in two contrasting schools. Knowledge of asthma was evaluated using a 6-question form completed at 3 timepoints: baseline (pre), immediately after intervention (post), and 1 week later (delayed). A total of 151 data sets from two schools were analysed. RESULTS: Knowledge was significantly improved immediately after watching the video for four out of six questions, indicating that the video was successful in effectively educating the children about asthma. There was no significant change to responses between immediately after watching the video and a week later, suggesting retention of the knowledge gained from viewing the intervention material. CONCLUSION: The results suggest acquisition and retention of knowledge in young people after watching a video on asthma, providing evidence to support the use of digital, video-assisted, internet-based learning tools such as the 'Moving on Asthma' website as an aid to regular clinics for young people with asthma.

Computerized detection of cyclic alternating patterns of sleep: A new paradigm, future scope and challenges.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Sleep quality is associated with wellness, and its assessment can help diagnose several disorders and diseases. Sleep analysis is commonly performed based on self-rating indices, sleep duration, environmental factors, physiologically and polysomnographic-derived parameters, and the occurrence of disorders. However, the correlation that has been observed between the subjective assessment and objective measurements of sleep quality is small. Recently, a few automated systems have been suugested to measure sleep quality to address this challenge. Sleep quality can be assessed by evaluating macrostructure-based sleep analysis via the examination of sleep cycles, namely Rapid Eye Movement (REM) and Non Rapid Eye Movement (NREM) with N1, N2, and N3 stages. However, macrostructure sleep analysis does not consider transitory phenomena like K-complexes and transient fluctuations, which are indispensable in diagnosing various sleep disorders. The CAP, part of the microstructure of sleep, may offer a more precise and relevant examination of sleep and can be considered one of the candidates to measure sleep quality and identify sleep disorders such as insomnia and apnea. CAP is characterized by very subtle changes in the brain's electroencephalogram (EEG) signals that occur during the NREM stage of sleep. The variations among these patterns in healthy subjects and subjects with sleep disorders can be used to identify sleep disorders. Studying CAP is highly arduous for human experts; thus, developing automated systems for assessing CAP is gaining momentum. Developing new techniques for automated CAP detection installed in clinical setups is essential. This paper aims to analyze the algorithms and methods presented in the literature for the automatic assessment of CAP and the development of CAP-based sleep markers that may enhance sleep quality assessment, helping diagnose sleep disorders. METHODS: This literature survey examined the automated assessment of CAP and related parameters. We have reviewed 34 research articles, including fourteen ML, nine DL, and ten based on some other techniques. RESULTS: The review includes various algorithms, databases, features, classifiers, and classification performances and their comparisons, advantages, and limitations of automated systems for CAP assessment. CONCLUSION: A detailed description of state-of-the-art research findings on automated CAP assessment and associated challenges has been presented. Also, the research gaps have been identified based on our review. Further, future research directions are suggested for sleep quality assessment using CAP.