Application of natural language processing to predict final recommendation of Brazilian health technology assessment reports.

INTRODUCTION: Health technology assessment (HTA) plays a vital role in healthcare decision-making globally, necessitating the identification of key factors impacting evaluation outcomes due to the significant workload faced by HTA agencies. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to predict the approval status of evaluations conducted by the Brazilian Committee for Health Technology Incorporation (CONITEC) using natural language processing (NLP). METHODS: Data encompassing CONITEC's official report summaries from 2012 to 2022. Textual data was tokenized for NLP analysis. Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator, logistic regression, support vector machine, random forest, neural network, and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), were evaluated for accuracy, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC AUC) score, precision, and recall. Cluster analysis using the k-modes algorithm categorized entries into two clusters (approved, rejected). RESULTS: The neural network model exhibited the highest accuracy metrics (precision at 0.815, accuracy at 0.769, ROC AUC at 0.871, and recall at 0.746), followed by XGBoost model. The lexical analysis uncovered linguistic markers, like references to international HTA agencies' experiences and government as demandant, potentially influencing CONITEC's decisions. Cluster and XGBoost analyses emphasized that approved evaluations mainly concerned drug assessments, often government-initiated, while non-approved ones frequently evaluated drugs, with the industry as the requester. CONCLUSIONS: NLP model can predict health technology incorporation outcomes, opening avenues for future research using HTA reports from other agencies. This model has the potential to enhance HTA system efficiency by offering initial insights and decision-making criteria, thereby benefiting healthcare experts.

Accessibility to manage the obstructive sleep apnea within the Brazilian Unified Health System.

OBJECTIVE: To measure the average time for the diagnosis and for the therapeutic prescription of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) at a hospital in Botucatu Medical School - State University São Paulo, UNESP. METHOD: A retrospective observational study was carried out by collecting data from the electronic medical records of patients over 18-years of age, who had a diagnostic polysomnography testing scheduled between January and December 2017. RESULT: Of the 347 patients eligible for the study, 94 (27.1%) missed follow-up and 103 (29.7%) had a referral for CPAP use. Until February 2021, only 37 (35.9%) of these patients had already acquired and were using the device, the remaining 66 (64.1%) were waiting or gave up the therapy. The mean value of the waiting time interval between the referral of the diagnostic test and its performance was equivalent to 197 days (6.5 months). The mean time between diagnostic polysomnography and CPAP prescription was 440-days (14.5-months), with a total mean time of 624 days (21-months). CONCLUSION: As in other services, the diagnostic-therapeutic flow proved to be highly inefficient, with a long waiting period, difficult access to treatment and a high dropout rate. These findings highlight the need to establish new patient-centered strategies with measures that speed up the flow and facilitate access to CPAP, in order to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with this condition. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 3 - Non-randomized controlled cohort/follow-up study Recommendation B.

Accessibility to manage the obstructive sleep apnea within the Brazilian Unified Health System

Abstract Objective To measure the average time for the diagnosis and for the therapeutic prescription of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) at a hospital in Botucatu Medical School - State University São Paulo, UNESP. Method A retrospective observational study was carried out by collecting data from the electronic medical records of patients over 18-years of age, who had a diagnostic polysomnography testing scheduled between January and December 2017. Result Of the 347 patients eligible for the study, 94 (27.1%) missed follow-up and 103 (29.7%) had a referral for CPAP use. Until February 2021, only 37 (35.9%) of these patients had already acquired and were using the device, the remaining 66 (64.1%) were waiting or gave up the therapy. The mean value of the waiting time interval between the referral of the diagnostic test and its performance was equivalent to 197 days (6.5 months). The mean time between diagnostic polysomnography and CPAP prescription was 440-days (14.5-months), with a total mean time of 624 days (21-months). Conclusion As in other services, the diagnostic-therapeutic flow proved to be highly inefficient, with a long waiting period, difficult access to treatment and a high dropout rate. These findings highlight the need to establish new patient-centered strategies with measures that speed up the flow and facilitate access to CPAP, in order to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with this condition. Level of evidence Level 3 - Non-randomized controlled cohort/follow-up study Recommendation B.

Technologies and Mental Health in University Students: An Unhealthy Combination

Abstract Introduction The exposure of medical students to a full-time schedule that includes classes, extracurricular activities, patients' lives responsibility, and great competition between classmates can interfere in emotional issues and in the sleep time. Objective The aim of the present study was to evaluate the sleep quality, and the incidence of anxiety and depression in medical school undergraduates as well as the relationship of these parameters with the intense use of technologies. Methods Fifty-five medical school undergraduates in their second year participated in the present study, answering questionnaires to evaluate sleep quality (Pittsburgh sleep quality index - PSQI), night-time use of technology (sleep time-related information and communication technology - STRICT), and signs of anxiety or depression (hospital anxiety and depression scale - HADS). Results The results showed 31 students (56.4%) with poor sleep quality (PSQI > 5). Based on the STRICT questionnaire, 36 (65.4%) of the participants referred to making use of technology at night-time; and 34 (61.8%) students had compatible anxiety score, while 14 (25.4%) had a compatible score for depression on the HADS questionnaire. There has been a correlation between poor sleep quality, the abuse of technologies before sleep time, and the presence of anxiety or depression. Conclusion The abuse of technology before sleep time reduced the sleep quality in the studied population, besides increasing the symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Is maxillomandibular advancement an effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea? Systematic literature review and meta-analysis

Abstract Objectives To evaluate the effectiveness of maxillomandibular advancement surgery in the treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea by comparing the pre- and postoperative Apnea and Hypopnea Index, in addition to classifying the degree of evidence and risk of intervention bias. Methods A systematic review of the literature was carried out in the PUBMED, LILACS, EMBASE, SCOPUS, WEB OF SCIENCE and COCHRANE platforms, including cohort studies with polysomnographic follow-up, without other associated pharyngeal or nasal surgical procedures. The risk of study bias was assessed using the Modified Delphi technique. Pre- and postoperative Apnea and Hypopnea Index data were plotted for meta-analysis, and the quality of evidence was assessed using the GRADE system. Results Of 1882 references, 32 articles were selected for full-text reading, of which four studies were included, totaling 83 adults with obstructive sleep apnea who underwent maxillomandibular advancement. The meta-analysis was in favor of the intervention (DM = −33.36, 95% CI −41.43 to −25.29, p< 0.00001), with a mean percentage reduction in the Apnea and Hypopnea Index of 79.5% after surgery, even though the level of evidence was classified as very low quality by the GRADE system. Conclusion The meta-analysis was in favor of the intervention, characterizing maxillomandibular advancement surgery as an effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea in adults.

Technologies and Mental Health in University Students: An Unhealthy Combination.

Introduction The exposure of medical students to a full-time schedule that includes classes, extracurricular activities, patients' lives responsibility, and great competition between classmates can interfere in emotional issues and in the sleep time. Objective The aim of the present study was to evaluate the sleep quality, and the incidence of anxiety and depression in medical school undergraduates as well as the relationship of these parameters with the intense use of technologies. Methods Fifty-five medical school undergraduates in their second year participated in the present study, answering questionnaires to evaluate sleep quality (Pittsburgh sleep quality index - PSQI), night-time use of technology (sleep time-related information and communication technology - STRICT), and signs of anxiety or depression (hospital anxiety and depression scale - HADS). Results The results showed 31 students (56.4%) with poor sleep quality (PSQI > 5). Based on the STRICT questionnaire, 36 (65.4%) of the participants referred to making use of technology at night-time; and 34 (61.8%) students had compatible anxiety score, while 14 (25.4%) had a compatible score for depression on the HADS questionnaire. There has been a correlation between poor sleep quality, the abuse of technologies before sleep time, and the presence of anxiety or depression. Conclusion The abuse of technology before sleep time reduced the sleep quality in the studied population, besides increasing the symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Is maxillomandibular advancement an effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea? Systematic literature review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effectiveness of maxillomandibular advancement surgery in the treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea by comparing the pre- and postoperative Apnea and Hypopnea Index, in addition to classifying the degree of evidence and risk of intervention bias. METHODS: A systematic review of the literature was carried out in the PUBMED, LILACS, EMBASE, SCOPUS, WEB OF SCIENCE and COCHRANE platforms, including cohort studies with polysomnographic follow-up, without other associated pharyngeal or nasal surgical procedures. The risk of study bias was assessed using the Modified Delphi technique. Pre- and postoperative Apnea and Hypopnea Index data were plotted for meta-analysis, and the quality of evidence was assessed using the GRADE system. RESULTS: Of 1882 references, 32 articles were selected for full-text reading, of which four studies were included, totaling 83 adults with obstructive sleep apnea who underwent maxillomandibular advancement. The meta-analysis was in favor of the intervention (DM = -33.36, 95% CI -41.43 to -25.29, p < 0.00001), with a mean percentage reduction in the Apnea and Hypopnea Index of 79.5% after surgery, even though the level of evidence was classified as very low quality by the GRADE system. CONCLUSION: The meta-analysis was in favor of the intervention, characterizing maxillomandibular advancement surgery as an effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea in adults.

Exploring the COVID-19 Pandemic's Impact on the Health Technology Assessment Process of the National Commission for the Incorporation of Technologies Into the Brazilian Health System.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Brazilian health technology assessment processes based on public reports from the National Committee for Health Technology Incorporation (CONITEC). METHODS: This descriptive study analyzed CONITEC's official reports on Brazil available on its website between 2018 and 2021 that aimed to propose recommendations for technologies to be incorporated into its public healthcare system. We used descriptive statistics covering the number of technologies and number of reports about drugs per year, objective, type of technology, demanding sector, and outcome before 2018 to 2019 and during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2021). Furthermore, we used logistic regression to explore any association between the final decision labeled as "incorporated" and the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS: A total of 278 reports were analyzed. Approximately 85% (136 of 278), 79% (220 of 278), and 45% of the reports (125 of 278) were about drugs, for incorporation, and requested by the government, respectively. Moreover, 74 of 130 (57%) and 56 of 148 decisions (38%) were "incorporated" before and during the pandemic, respectively. No significant association was noted between incorporated decisions and the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic for all technologies (odds ratio 1.43; 95% CI 0.84-2.46; P = .192) and for drugs (odds ratio 1.43; 95% confidence interval 0.81-2.53; P = .223) while adjusting for the type of technology and demandant. CONCLUSIONS: The COVID-19 pandemic has brought many challenges, but it does not seem to have had a significant impact on the health technology assessment approval decisions of CONITEC in Brazil.

How the speech-language pathologist interacts with cystic fibrosis patients? a scoping review / Qual a relação da fonoaudiologia com a fibrose cística? uma revisão de escopo / ¿Cuál es la relación entre la logopedia y la fibrosis quís- tica? una revisión del alcance

Objective: The review describes the changes related to sleep-breathing disorders, com- munication and feeding processes in subjects with CF, through a scoping review. Meth- ods: A scoping review based on the PRISMA protocol was carried out in Pubmed, Lilacs and Scopus databases, to investigate the possibility of including SLP in the treatment of patients with CF. The inclusion criteria included studies that addressed communication and eating processes and disorders related to CF. Studies with a sample that presented other comorbidities that would justify the worsening of the condition, or secondary stud- ies, were excluded. There was no time or language delimitation. Results: The search found 1566 works, 27 Lilacs, 1009 Pubmed and 530 Scopus, by analysis of titles, abstract and reading in full. A total of 30 articles were selected for inclusion, 2 Lilacs, 22 Pubmed and 6 Scopus, all related to Speech-Language Pathology. Conclusion: It was observed that there is a poor sleep quality due to nocturnal desaturation, mild and moderate obstructive apnea. In studies related to hearing, individuals had sensorineural hearing loss. Speech-Language Pathology is of paramount importance in monitoring these sub- jects.

Objetivo: Descrever alterações relacionadas aos processos de distúrbios respiratórios do sono, comunicação e alimentação em sujeitos com FC, por meio de uma scoping review. Métodos: Foi realizada uma scoping review nas bases de dados Pubmed, Lilacs e Scopus, para investigar a possibilidade de incluir o fonoaudiólogo no tratamento de pacientes com FC, utilizando o checklist PRISMA. Os critérios de inclusão incluíram estudos que abor- dassem processos de comunicação e alimentação e distúrbios relacionados à FC. Foram excluídos estudos com amostra que apresentasse outras comorbidades que justificassem o agravamento do quadro, ou estudos secundários. Não houve delimitação de tempo ou idioma. Resultados: A busca encontrou 1566 trabalhos, sendo 27 Lilacs, 1009 Pubmed e 530 Scopus, por meio de análise de títulos, resumo e leitura na íntegra. Foram seleciona- dos para inclusão 30 artigos, sendo 2 Lilacs, 22 Pubmed e 6 Scopus, todos relacionados à Fonoaudiologia. Conclusão: Observou-se que há má qualidade do sono devido à dessa- turação noturna, apneia obstrutiva leve e moderada. Em estudos relacionados à audição, os indivíduos apresentaram perda auditiva neurossensorial. A Fonoaudiologia é de suma importância no acompanhamento desses sujeitos.

Objetivo: Describir las alteraciones relacionadas con los procesos de trastornos respira- torios del sueño, comunicación y alimentación en sujetos con FQ, a través de una revisión de alcance. Métodos: Se realizó una revisión de alcance en las bases de datos Pubmed, Lilacs y Scopus, para investigar la posibilidad de incluir al logopeda en el tratamiento de pacientes con FQ, utilizando la lista de verificación PRISMA. Los criterios de inclusión incluyeron estudios que abordaran los procesos de comunicación y alimentación y los trastornos relacionados con la FQ. Se excluyeron los estudios con una muestra que pre- sentaba otras comorbilidades que justificasen el empeoramiento del cuadro, o estudios secundarios. No había delimitación de tiempo ni de idioma. Resultados: La búsqueda en- contró 1566 trabajos, de los cuales 27 fueron Lilacs, 1009 Pubmed y 530 Scopus, me- diante análisis de títulos, resúmenes y lectura completa. Se seleccionaron 30 artículos para inclusión, 2 Lilacs, 22 Pubmed y 6 Scopus, todos relacionados con Logopedia. Con- clusión: Se observó que existe mala calidad del sueño por desaturación nocturna, apnea obstructiva leve y moderada. En estudios relacionados con la audición, los individuos tenían pérdida auditiva neurosensorial. La logopedia es de suma importancia en el segui- miento de estos sujetos.

Burnout, COVID-19, apoio social e insegurança alimentar em trabalhadores da saúde / Burnout, COVID-19, apoyo social e inseguridad alimentaria en trabajadores de la salud / Burnout, COVID-19, social support and food insecurity in health workers

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar a prevalência de risco para a Síndrome de Burnout entre profissionais da saúde de áreas de atendimento a pacientes com COVID-19, bem como verificar possíveis associações da síndrome com o apoio social percebido e com a insegurança alimentar desses trabalhadores. Métodos Estudo transversal analítico, com trabalhadores de unidades de terapia intensiva (UTI) e de enfermarias de atendimento a pacientes com COVID-19, em um hospital universitário. A coleta de dados foi realizada no período de setembro a outubro de 2021, utilizando os instrumentos: Inventário de Burnout de Maslach (MBI-HSS), Escala Multidimensional de Suporte Social Percebido e Escala de Vivência da Insegurança Alimentar (FIES). A análise estatística utilizou modelos de regressão de Poisson e regressão múltipla de Poisson, sendo consideradas diferenças e associações estatisticamente significativas se p<0,05. Resultados 75 trabalhadores de três enfermarias (48%) e de uma UTI (52%) participaram da pesquisa, sendo que os profissionais são, em sua maioria, do sexo feminino (89,3%), formados(as) como técnicos de enfermagem (66,7%). Em relação ao risco de Síndrome de Burnout , 26,7% dos trabalhadores apresentaram escores para pelo menos uma dimensão da escala, principalmente à referente a alta exaustão emocional (20%); verificou-se a associação positiva entre o risco de desenvolver Síndrome de Burnout e a insegurança alimentar (RP = 1,11; IC95% = (1,04; 1,18); p = 0,002). O número de filhos associou-se significativamente de forma negativa à incidência de Síndrome de Burnout (RP = 0,90; IC95% = (0,83; 0,97); p = 0,008). Conclusão Foram observadas associações positivas de maior risco de SB em profissionais com insegurança alimentar e, também, que o número de filhos atua como fator protetivo ao risco de Síndrome de Burnout , o que pode estar relacionado diretamente ao apoio social percebido.

Resumen Objetivo Evaluar la prevalencia de riesgo de síndrome de burnout en profesionales de la salud de áreas de asistencia a pacientes con COVID-19, así como verificar posibles relaciones del síndrome con el apoyo social percibido y la inseguridad alimentaria de estos trabajadores. Métodos Estudio transversal analítico, con trabajadores de unidades de cuidados intensivos (UCI) y de enfermerías de asistencia a pacientes con COVID-19 en un hospital universitario. La recopilación de datos fue realizada en el período de septiembre a octubre de 2021, utilizando los instrumentos: Cuestionario Maslach de Burnout (MBI-HSS), Escala Multidimensional de Apoyo Social Percibido y Escala de Experiencias de Inseguridad Alimentaria (FIES). En el análisis estadístico se utilizaron modelos de regresión de Poisson y regresión múltiple de Poisson, donde se consideraron diferencias y asociaciones estadísticamente significativas si p<0,05. Resultados Participaron del estudio 75 trabajadores de tres enfermerías (48 %) y de una UCI (52 %), donde los profesionales, en su mayoría, eran de sexo femenino (89,3 %), graduados(as) como técnicos de enfermería (66,7 %). Con relación al riesgo de síndrome de burnout , el 26,7 % de los trabajadores presentó puntuación en por lo menos una dimensión de la escala, principalmente en la referente al alto agotamiento emocional (20 %). Se verificó una asociación positiva entre el riesgo de padecer síndrome de burnout y la inseguridad alimentaria (RP = 1,11; IC95 % = (1,04; 1,18); p = 0,002). El número de hijos se asoció significativamente de forma negativa a la incidencia de síndrome de burnout (RP = 0,90; IC95 % = (0,83; 0,97); p = 0,008). Conclusión Se observaron asociaciones positivas de mayor riesgo de síndrome de burnout en profesionales con inseguridad alimentaria, además de que el número de hijos actúa como factor protector del riesgo de síndrome de burnout , lo que puede estar directamente relacionado con el apoyo social percibido.

Abstract Objective To evaluate the prevalence of risk for Burnout Syndrome among health professionals in areas of care for patients with COVID-19, as well as to verify possible associations of the syndrome with the perceived social support and food insecurity of these workers. Methods Analytical cross-sectional study, with workers from intensive care units (ICU) and wards caring for patients with COVID-19, in a university hospital. Data collection was carried out from September to October 2021, using the instruments: Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI-HSS), Multidimensional Perceived Social Support Scale and Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES). Statistical analysis used Poisson regression models and multiple Poisson regression, considering statistically significant differences and associations if p<0.05. Results A total of 75 workers from three wards (48%) and from one ICU (52%) participated in the survey, and the professionals are mostly female (89.3%), trained as health care technicians (66.7%). Regarding the risk of Burnout Syndrome, 26.7% of the workers had scores for at least one dimension of the scale, mainly referring to high emotional exhaustion (20%). There was a positive association between the risk of developing Burnout Syndrome and food insecurity (PR = 1.11; 95%CI = (1.04; 1.18); p = 0.002). The number of children was significantly negatively associated with the incidence of Burnout Syndrome (PR = 0.90; 95%CI = (0.83; 0.97); p = 0.008). Conclusion Positive associations were observed with a higher risk of BS in professionals with food insecurity and also that the number of children acts as a protective factor against the risk of Burnout Syndrome, which may be directly related to perceived social support.

Caracterização de traqueostomia em crianças e adolescentes em um serviço de atenção terciária / Characterization of tracheostomy in children and adolescents in a tertiary care service / Caracterización de la traqueotomía en niños y adolescentes en un servicio de tercer nivel de atención

Objetivo: descrever o perfil de indicações, comorbidades e complicações pós-operatórias precoces de crianças e adolescentes submetidos à traqueostomia em um hospital referência brasileiro. Método: estudo retrospectivo,transversale quantiativo, com análise de prontuários eletrônicos de crianças e adolescentes submetidos à traqueostomia em um hospital de Botucatu, São Paulo, Brasil, no periodo de 2013 a 2019. A amostra foi comparada mediante a divisão de presença e ausência de complicações pós-operatórias precoces, no que se refere ao sexo, idade, síndrome, óbito, caráter eletivo ou de urgência/emergência e peso ao nascer. Resultados: entre100 prontuários, 55% do sexo masculino, com média de 3,03±3,10 anos. Foram identificadas 12 diferentes síndromes em 16 pacientes. No que se refere às complicações pós-operatórias precoces, a rolha foi a mais frequente (13%), e esteve associada a presença de síndromes (p=0,01). O motivo mais identificado da traqueostomia foi a intubação orotraquealprolongada, enquanto 44% evoluíram a óbitodevido a gravidade da doença de base. Conclusão: a traqueostomia em crianças é um procedimento seguro, com indicação mais frequente por intubação prolongada, em portadores de síndromes genéticas menores de um ano de idade. Complicação como rolha é comum, associado a síndrome.

Objective: to describe the profile of indications, comorbidities and early postoperative complications of children and adolescents undergoing tracheostomy in a Brazilian referral hospital. Method: retrospective, cross-sectional and quantitative study, with analysis of electronic medical records of children and adolescents who underwent tracheostomy in a hospital in Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil, from 2013 to 2019. The sample was compared by dividing the presence and absence of post-operative complications. early operative procedures, with regard to sex, age, syndrome, death, elective or urgency/emergency character and birth weight. Results:among 100 records, 55% were male, with an average of 3.03±3.10 years.Twelve different syndromes were identified in 16 patients. With regard to early postoperative complications, cork was the most frequent (13%) and was associated with the presence of syndromes (p=0.01). The most identified reason for tracheostomy was prolonged orotracheal intubation, while 44% died due to the severity of the underlying disease.Conclusion:pediatric tracheostomy is a safe procedure, more frequently realized due to failure of extubation, in genetic syndrome children younger than one year old. Cork is a frequent complication, associated to syndromes.

Objetivo:describirel perfil de indicaciones, comorbilidades y complicaciones postoperatorias tempranas de niños y adolescentes sometidos a traqueotomía en un hospital de referencia brasileño. Método: estudio retrospectivo, transversal y cuantitativo, con análisis de historias clínicas electrónicas de niños y adolescentes operados de traqueotomía en un hospital de Botucatu, São Paulo, Brasil, de 2013 a 2019. La muestra fue comparada dividiendo la presencia y ausencia de complicaciones postoperatorias. .procedimientos operatorios tempranos, con respecto al sexo, edad, síndrome, muerte, carácter electivo o urgencia/emergencia y peso al nacer. Resultados: entre 100 registros, 55% eran del sexo masculino, con una media de 3,03±3,10 años. Se identificaron 12 síndromes diferentes en 16 pacientes. En cuanto a las complicaciones postoperatorias tempranas, el corcho fue la más frecuente (13%) y se asoció a la presencia de síndromes (p=0,01). El motivo de traqueostomía más identificado fue la intubación orotraqueal prolongada, mientras que el 44% fallecieron debido a la gravedad de la enfermedad de base.Conclusión: la traqueotomía en niños es un procedimiento seguro, con indicación más frecuente de intubación prolongada, en pacientes con síndromes genéticos menores de un año. La complicación como el corcho es común, asociada con el síndrome.

Impact of CPAP treatment for a short period in moderate-to-severe OSAS patients: a randomized double-blind clinical trial / Impacto do tratamento com CPAP por um curto período em pacientes com SAOS moderada a grave: um estudo clínico duplo-cego randomizado

Abstract Introduction: Obesity is the most frequent reversible agravating factor of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, with physical activity very important for its control. Continuous positive air pressure during sleep is the ‟gold standard" treatment for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. Objective: we aimed to investigate if the use of continuous positive air pressure for a short period (7 days), would improve sleep quality, daytime sleepiness, and the disposition for physical activity. Methods: Eighty obstructive sleep apnea syndrome patients were randomly assigned as follows: group I - continuous positive air pressure with a steady pressure of 4cm H2O; group II - ideal therapeutic pressure. After filling out the questionnaires related to the studied variables (International physical activity questionnaire long-form, Epworth sleepiness scale, Pittsburgh sleep quality index), patients underwent a baseline pulmonary function test and continuous positive air pressure titration. After continuous positive air pressure therapy for 4> hours a night for 7 consecutive days, patients returned and filled out new (International physical activity questionnaire long-form, Epworth sleepiness scale, Pittsburgh sleep quality index) forms. New spirometry was carried out. Results: 39 patients completed the study. The mean age was 52 ±11 years old and 28 patients (71.79%) were obese. Both groups were similar for all variables studied at baseline. After Continuous positive air pressure use, patients of group II presented more significant improvements (p< 0.05) for sleep quality and diurnal sleepiness. Time spent with physical activities did not change. Spirometric data were at normal range at baseline. Solely the variable FEF 25%-75% was significantly enhanced (p< 0.05) in group II. Conclusion: Continuous positive air pressure therapy for 1 week, with ideal pressure, improves daytime sleepiness and sleep quality, enhances pulmonary function, but does not change the mean time spent with physical activities.

Resumo Introdução: A obesidade é o fator causal reversível mais frequente da síndrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono, a atividade física é muito importante para o seu controle. A pressão positiva contínua na via aérea, CPAP, durante o sono é o tratamento padrão ouro para essa condição clínica. Objetivo: Avaliar se o uso do CPAP na síndrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono por um curto período (7 dias) melhoraria a qualidade do sono, a sonolência diurna e a disposição para a prática de atividades físicas, além da função pulmonar. Método: Oitenta pacientes com síndrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono foram distribuídos aleatoriamente da seguinte forma: grupo I - CPAP com pressão constante de 4cm H2O; grupo II - pressão terapêutica ideal. Após o preenchimento dos questionários relacionados ao estudo das variáveis (PSQI, ESS e IPAQ-L), os pacientes foram submetidos a teste de função pulmonar basal e titulação da CPAP. Após terapia com CPAP por ≥ 4 horas por noite durante sete dias consecutivos, os pacientes retornaram e preencheram novos questionários PSQI, ESS e IPAQ-L. Nova espirometria foi feita. Resultados: Apenas 39 pacientes completaram o estudo. A média de idade foi de 52 ± 11 anos e 28 pacientes (71,79%) eram obesos. Ambos os grupos eram semelhantes quanto às variáveis avaliadas no início do estudo. Após o uso de CPAP, os pacientes do grupo II apresentaram melhorias mais significantes (p < 0,05) para qualidade do sono e sonolência diurna. O tempo gasto com atividades físicas não mudou. Os dados espirométricos estavam na faixa normal no início do estudo. Apenas a variável FEF 25%-75% aumentou significantemente (p < 0,05) no grupo II. Conclusão: A terapia com CPAP por uma semana, com pressão ideal, melhora a sonolência diurna e a qualidade do sono, melhora a função pulmonar, mas não altera o tempo médio despendido com atividades físicas.

Oral language skills in Brazilian children with obstructive sleep apnea.

BACKGROUND: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with a negative impact on neurocognitive development in children. Receptive/expressive oral language is a complex process, with limited investigations on the repercussion of OSA. This study aimed to analyze receptive and expressive oral language skills in children with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). METHODOLOGY: This study included 52 children (27 females, 51.92 %) with a mean age of 7 ± 2 years (age range of 4-11 years), which underwent type 3 polysomnography (PSG). The participants were divided into N-OSA (n = 16) and OSA (n = 36) groups based on the apnea-hypopnea index. The speech-language therapist evaluated hearing and oral language for phonology, expressive semantics, syntax, receptive semantics (Peabody Image Vocabulary Test), pragmatics, and understanding of verbal instructions (Token Test). RESULTS: Oral language assessments showed a difference in the pragmatics subsystem (p = 0.047), with positive correlation between OSA severity and oral language functions such as pragmatics and syntax (desaturation index, p = 0.045). CONCLUSION: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) had a negative impact on oral language skills, including the syntax and pragmatics subsystems.

Are reduced internal nasal dimensions a risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome? / Dimensões internas nasais reduzidas constituem fator de risco para síndrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono?

Abstract Introduction Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome is a high-prevalence disorder found in the population. Studies have shown a possible association between nasal obstruction and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, but the existence of a association between the degree of nasal obstruction and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome severity has not yet been proven. Objective To evaluate the internal nasal dimensions of adults with primary snoring and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome by acoustic rhinometry and to correlate the findings with obstructive sleep apnea severity. Methods Twenty-one male Caucasian subjects with complaints of snoring and/or respiratory pauses during sleep, aged between 18 and 60 years of age, were evaluated. After clinical evaluation, otorhinolaryngological examination and flexible nasopharyngolaryngoscopy, all patients underwent type III polysomnography. The participants were divided into two groups according to symptom severity: group 1, primary snoring and/or mild obstructive sleep apnea syndrome(n = 9) and group 2, moderate/severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (n = 12). Internal nasal dimensions were measured by acoustic rhinometry, analyzing minimum cross sectional area (CSA) and three nasal segment volumes. Results The respiratory event index corresponded to 8.1 ± 4.0 in group 1 and 47.5 ± 19.1 in group 2. In group 1, the cross-sectional areas values, in cm2, corresponded to: CSA 1 = 1.1 ± 0.4; CSA 2 = 2.1 ± 0.9; CSA 3 = 3.5 ± 1.8 and, in group 2: CSA 1 = 1.2 ± 0.3, CSA 2 = 2.0 ± 0.5; CSA 3 = 2.8 ± 0.7. In group 1, volumes (V), in cm3, corresponded to: V1 = 3.5 ± 1.0; V2 = 9.3 ± 5.0; V3 = 40.2 ± 21.5 and in group 2 a: V1 = 3.6 ± 0.5; V2 = 7.6 ± 1.5; V3 = 31.5 ± 6.7. Cross-sectional area and volume ​​did not differ between groups. Conclusion There were no significant differences in the cross-sectional areas and nasal volumes between individuals with primary snoring-mild obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and moderate-severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. Differently to the raised hypothesis, our results suggest that there is no association between internal nasal dimensions and severity of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.

Resumo Introdução A síndrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono é uma desordem de elevada prevalência na população. Estudos constataram possível associação entre obstrução nasal e síndrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono, porém a existência de uma relação entre a intensidade da obstrução nasal e a gravidade da síndrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono ainda não foi comprovada. Objetivo Avaliar as dimensões internas nasais de adultos com ronco primário e síndrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono por meio de rinometria acústica e correlacionar os achados com a gravidade da síndrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono. Método Foram avaliados 21 indivíduos com queixas de ronco e/ou pausas respiratórias durante o sono, gênero masculino, entre 18 e 60 anos, brancos. Após avaliação clínica, exame físico otorrinolaringológico e nasofaringolaringoscopia flexível, todos foram submetidos à polissonografia tipo III. Os participantes foram divididos em dois grupos de acordo com a gravidade dos sintomas: grupo 1, ronco primário e/ou síndrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono leve (n = 9) e grupo 2, síndrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono moderada/grave (n = 12). Dimensões internas nasais foram aferidas por rinometria acústica, foram consideradas para análise as áreas de secção transversa mínima e os volumes de três diferentes segmentos nasais. Resultados O índice de eventos respiratórios correspondeu a 8,1 ± 4,0 no grupo 1 e 47,5 ± 19,1 no grupo 2. No grupo 1, os valores de área de secção transversa, em cm2, corresponderam a: área de secção transversa 1 = 1,1 ± 0,4; área de secção transversa 2 = 2,1 ± 0,9; área de secção transversa 3 = 3,5 ± 1,8. No grupo 2: área de secção transversa 1 = 1,2 ± 0,3, área de secção transversa 2 = 2,0 ± 0,5; áre de secção transversa 3 = 2,8 ± 0,7. No grupo 1 os valores do volume, em cm3, corresponderam a: volume 1 = 3,5 ± 1,0; volume 2 = 9,3 ± 5,0; volume 3 = 40,2 ± 21,5 e no grupo 2 a: volume 1 = 3,6 ± 0,5; V2 = 7,6 ± 1,5; volume 3 = 31,5 ± 6,7. Os valores de área de secção transversa e volume não diferiram entre os grupos. Conclusão Não foram demonstradas diferenças significantes quanto às áreas seccionais transversas e os volumes nasais entre indivíduos com ronco primário e síndrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono leve e síndrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono moderada-grave. Contrariamente à hipótese levantada, os resultados sugerem não existir relação entre as dimensões internas nasais e o nível de gravidade da síndrome da apneia obstrutiva do sono.

Insomnia and excessive daytime sleepiness in medical students: consequences of the use of technologies?

Objective: To analyze the relation among insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness and the excessive use of technologies in medical students. Methods: The study was approved by the Local Ethics Committee of the institution. Students from the 1st and 2nd year of medical graduation students participated. Three questionnaires were used: Sleep Time-Related Information and Communication Technology, Insomnia Severity Index and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale. The data were described and compared by gender and year of graduation by the Students T Test, and correlated to the use of technology, insomnia and excessive daytime sleepiness by Pearsons Correlation (adopted the significance level of p <0.05). Results: 106 students (41 male) participated, expressing perception of insomnia in 76.4%, 34% with excessive daytime sleepiness, and 38.3% had a high use of technology related to sleep. There was a correlation between the use of technologies both with insomnia (r = 0.393; p = < 0.001), as well as with excessive daytime sleepiness (r = 0.228; p = 0.019). Conclusion: An important frequency of insomnia was found associated with the excessive use of technologies at the bed, with repercussions of daytime sleepiness. This demonstrates the importance of actions to raise awareness and education about correct sleep hygiene in medical students.

Is ankyloglossia associated with obstructive sleep apnea?

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the evidence on the association between ankyloglossia and obstructive sleep apnea. METHODS: An integrative literature review was carried out in the databases. Observational and interventional studies that assessed the lingual frenulum in children with sleep-disordered breathing were included. As exclusion criteria: studies in animals, in vitro, letters to the editor, expert opinions, other reviews. The selected articles were analyzed regarding the study design, sample, characterization of the lingual frenulum and sleep assessment, in addition to the main results and conclusions. RESULTS: Ninety-seven articles were identified, but only 4 met the inclusion criteria. Two retrospective studies concluded that the untreated shortened lingual frenulum at birth is associated with obstructive sleep apnea. A prospective study concluded that there was an improvement in speech and deglutition after lingual frenectomy, in addition to improved sleep. A retrospective cohort concluded that lingual frenuloplasty combined with myofunctional therapy is effective in the treatment of snoring and mouth breathing. CONCLUSION: The studies included in this review contribute to corroborate the association between ankyloglossia and obstructive sleep apnea.

Are reduced internal nasal dimensions a risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome?

INTRODUCTION: Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome is a high-prevalence disorder found in the population. Studies have shown a possible association between nasal obstruction and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, but the existence of a association between the degree of nasal obstruction and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome severity has not yet been proven. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the internal nasal dimensions of adults with primary snoring and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome by acoustic rhinometry and to correlate the findings with obstructive sleep apnea severity. METHODS: Twenty-one male Caucasian subjects with complaints of snoring and/or respiratory pauses during sleep, aged between 18 and 60 years of age, were evaluated. After clinical evaluation, otorhinolaryngological examination and flexible nasopharyngolaryngoscopy, all patients underwent type III polysomnography. The participants were divided into two groups according to symptom severity: group 1, primary snoring and/or mild obstructive sleep apnea syndrome(n = 9) and group 2, moderate/severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (n = 12). Internal nasal dimensions were measured by acoustic rhinometry, analyzing minimum cross sectional area (CSA) and three nasal segment volumes. RESULTS: The respiratory event index corresponded to 8.1 ±â€¯4.0 in group 1 and 47.5 ±â€¯19.1 in group 2. In group 1, the cross-sectional areas values, in cm2, corresponded to: CSA 1 = 1.1 ±â€¯0.4; CSA 2 = 2.1 ±â€¯0.9; CSA 3 = 3.5 ±â€¯1.8 and, in group 2: CSA 1 = 1.2 ±â€¯0.3, CSA 2 = 2.0 ±â€¯0.5; CSA 3 = 2.8 ±â€¯0.7. In group 1, volumes (V), in cm3, corresponded to: V1 = 3.5 ±â€¯1.0; V2 = 9.3 ±â€¯5.0; V3 = 40.2 ±â€¯21.5 and in group 2 a: V1 = 3.6 ±â€¯0.5; V2 = 7.6 ±â€¯1.5; V3 = 31.5 ±â€¯6.7. Cross-sectional area and volume ​​did not differ between groups. CONCLUSION: There were no significant differences in the cross-sectional areas and nasal volumes between individuals with primary snoring-mild obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and moderate-severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. Differently to the raised hypothesis, our results suggest that there is no association between internal nasal dimensions and severity of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.

Impact of CPAP treatment for a short period in moderate-to-severe OSAS patients: a randomized double-blind clinical trial.

INTRODUCTION: Obesity is the most frequent reversible agravating factor of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, with physical activity very important for its control. Continuous positive air pressure during sleep is the "gold standard" treatment for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. OBJECTIVE: we aimed to investigate if the use of continuous positive air pressure for a short period (7 days), would improve sleep quality, daytime sleepiness, and the disposition for physical activity. METHODS: Eighty obstructive sleep apnea syndrome patients were randomly assigned as follows: group I - continuous positive air pressure with a steady pressure of 4 cm H2O; group II - ideal therapeutic pressure. After filling out the questionnaires related to the studied variables (International physical activity questionnaire long-form, Epworth sleepiness scale, Pittsburgh sleep quality index), patients underwent a baseline pulmonary function test and continuous positive air pressure titration. After continuous positive air pressure therapy for 4≥ hours a night for 7 consecutive days, patients returned and filled out new (International physical activity questionnaire long-form, Epworth sleepiness scale, Pittsburgh sleep quality index) forms. New spirometry was carried out. RESULTS: 39 patients completed the study. The mean age was 52 ±â€¯11 years old and 28 patients (71.79%) were obese. Both groups were similar for all variables studied at baseline. After Continuous positive air pressure use, patients of group II presented more significant improvements (p <  0.05) for sleep quality and diurnal sleepiness. Time spent with physical activities did not change. Spirometric data were at normal range at baseline. Solely the variable FEF 25%-75% was significantly enhanced (p <  0.05) in group II. CONCLUSION: Continuous positive air pressure therapy for 1 week, with ideal pressure, improves daytime sleepiness and sleep quality, enhances pulmonary function, but does not change the mean time spent with physical activities.

Is ankyloglossia associated with obstructive sleep apnea? / Anquiloglossia se associa à apneia obstrutiva do sono?

Abstract Objectives To investigate the evidence on the association between ankyloglossia and obstructive sleep apnea. Methods An integrative literature review was carried out in the databases. Observational and interventional studies that assessed the lingual frenulum in children with sleep-disordered breathing were included. As exclusion criteria: studies in animals, in vitro, letters to the editor, expert opinions, other reviews. The selected articles were analyzed regarding the study design, sample, characterization of the lingual frenulum and sleep assessment, in addition to the main results and conclusions. Results Ninety-seven articles were identified, but only 4 met the inclusion criteria. Two retrospective studies concluded that the untreated shortened lingual frenulum at birth is associated with obstructive sleep apnea. A prospective study concluded that there was an improvement in speech and deglutition after lingual frenectomy, in addition to improved sleep. A retrospective cohort concluded that lingual frenuloplasty combined with myofunctional therapy is effective in the treatment of snoring and mouth breathing. Conclusion The studies included in this review contribute to corroborate the association between ankyloglossia and obstructive sleep apnea.

Resumo Objetivo Investigar as evidências sobre a associação entre a anquiloglossia e a apneia obstrutiva do sono. Método Foi feita revisão de literatura integrativa nas bases de dados. Foram incluídos estudos observacionais e intervencionais em que foi feita a avaliação do frênulo de língua em crianças com distúrbios respiratórios do sono. Como critérios de exclusão: estudo em animais, in vitro, carta ao editor, opinião de expert, outras revisões. Os artigos selecionados foram analisados quanto ao desenho do estudo, casuística, caracterização da avaliação do frênulo lingual e do sono, além dos principais resultados e conclusões. Resultado Foram localizados 97 artigos, porém apenas 4 atenderam aos critérios de inclusão. Dois estudos retrospectivos concluiram que o frênulo lingual curto não tratado ao nascimento está associado à apneia obstrutiva do sono. Um estudo prospectivo concluiu que, após a frenectomia lingual, além da melhoria do sono, houve melhoria na fala e deglutição. Um coorte retrospectivo concluiu que a frenuloplastia lingual associada à terapia miofuncional é eficaz no tratamento do ronco e respiração oral. Conclusão Os estudos incluídos na presente revisão contribuem para corroborar a associação entre anquiloglossia e apneia obstrutiva do sono.

Quality of the Italian Websites for Parental Guidance on the Indications for Tonsillectomy in Children.

Introduction The quality of information on websites about tonsillectomy regarding the knowledge level may be low. Tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure to hypertrophy of the palatine and pharyngeal tonsils. So, it is an invasive procedure with possible complications, which creates insecurity in parents. Significantly, Internet searches have been increased to address possible health concerns, questioning the quality of websites about tonsillectomy. Objective To evaluate the readability, reliability, and comprehensiveness of the Italian websites dedicated to parental guidance regarding the indications for tonsillectomy in children. Methods The search engine google.it was used to search the websites. The Gulpease index, which is a widely used readability formula ranging from 0 (difficult) to 100 (easy readability), was employed to evaluate these websites. The Health on the Net Code of Conduct (HONcode) was used to assess the quality of information, by taking ethical principles into account, with values ranging from 0 to 13. The content comprehensiveness of the web pages was assessed by assigning points ranging from 1 (very insufficient) to 5 (very satisfying) to each page. A final comparison with previous studies on tonsillectomy published on websites from other countries was performed. Results Fourteen Italian websites were selected, and the Gulpease index showed a mean average of 40.77 ± 8.45. The mean of the HONcode analysis was 6.00 ± 1.92, in which the principles with the poorest scores were Attribution and Update . As far as the comprehensiveness of the websites is concerned, the resulting mean was 2.57 ± 0.77, in which Indications was the topic with the highest mean, whereas Benefits was the one with the lowest. Conclusion The Italian websites were characterized by a lower readability level, a middle position regarding ethical principles, and the same (insufficient) comprehensiveness of tonsillectomy when compared with websites from different countries.