This study aims to investigate the effects of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) on executive function and empathy development in children aged 3-12 years. The study will compare the outcomes of different treatment approaches (surgical vs. pharmacological) in children with mild OSA and track the progression of cognitive and emotional functions over 12 months. The study will also explore potential EEG biomarkers for assessing neurological damage in OSA children.
Children aged 3-12 years.
Diagnosed with OSA due to adenoid and/or tonsillar hypertrophy.
IQ ≥ 85.
Parental consent for participation.
Other primary sleep disorders (e.g., narcolepsy, restless leg syndrome).
Developmental delay, epilepsy, or other neurological/metabolic disorders.
Chronic diseases or history of head trauma.
Children aged 3-12 years diagnosed with OSA and healthy controls.
Cohort
Prospective
Not listed
Executive function measured by the "Heart and Flower" task.
Children's executive function will be assessed using the "Heart and Flower" task, which measures the ability to follow rules and switch between tasks. Performance is evaluated based on accuracy and reaction time.
Empathy Level Measured by the Pain Empathy Paradigm
Children's empathy level will be assessed using a pain empathy paradigm, where children rate the pain intensity of others in pictures. Scores reflect their ability to understand and share the feelings of others.
Parent-Reported Executive Function Using BRIEF-P Questionnaire
Parents will complete the BRIEF-P to assess their child's everyday executive function behaviors, including inhibition, emotional control, and working memory.
Working Memory Assessed by WPPSI-IV or WISC-IV
Children's working memory will be assessed using the WPPSI-IV or WISC-IV, depending on the child's age.
Obstructive Apnea-Hypopnea Index (OAHI) Measured by PSG
The OAHI, which measures the number of obstructive apnea and hypopnea events per hour during sleep, will be assessed using polysomnography (PSG).
Minimum Oxygen Saturation (MinSaO2) During Sleep
The minimum oxygen saturation level during sleep will be measured using PSG to assess the severity of oxygen desaturation in OSA children.
Parent-Reported Sleep Habits Using CSHQ Questionnaire
Parents will complete the CSHQ to report their child's sleep behaviors, including bedtime resistance, sleep duration, and night awakenings.
Theta Wave Intensity in Prefrontal Cortex During Executive Function Tasks
EEG will be used to measure theta wave intensity in the prefrontal cortex while children perform executive function tasks, providing an objective neural correlate of executive function.
Theta/Beta Ratio in Resting-State EEG
The theta/beta ratio in resting-state EEG will be measured as a potential biomarker for cognitive and emotional regulation in children with OSA.
Event-Related Potentials (N2 and LPP) During Empathy Tasks
EEG will be used to measure event-related potentials (N2 and LPP) during empathy tasks, reflecting neural responses to emotional stimuli.
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