This study presents a systematic review design aiming to explore how chronotype features are assessed in school-aged children (ages 4-11) and how chronotype is related to sleep habits, household dynamics, ethnicity, and geographical latitude. The review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Thirty-one studies were identified as eligible and reviewed by three independent researchers. The main findings indicate that chronotype is often under-assessed in school-aged children, with both professionals and parents reporting limited knowledge of children's sleep patterns. Additionally, there is a lack of information in the literature regarding how chronotype, sleep patterns, and vigilance are influenced by latitude and sociocultural factors. Most research on the relationship among the aforementioned variables is focused on adults rather than children. Furthermore, the methods for measuring sleep quality and chronotype were found to be inconsistent, with chronotype and sleep quality often used interchangeably. Based on these findings, further research is needed to explore how chronotype, sleep habits, and cultural or latitudinal factors might predict mental health and cognitive development in children. In terms of practical implications, there is an urgent need for re-education of parents on establishing healthy sleep and wake routines for their children.
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a sensorimotor disorder with diverse clinical manifestations that significantly impact sleep and quality of life, particularly among women. Polysomnography (PSG) plays a key role in evaluating motor features of RLS, such as periodic leg movements during sleep (PLMS). This review examines the effects of pharmacological treatments on PSG parameters and sleep architecture in RLS. Dopamine agonists are the most studied, consistently reducing PLMS but offering limited improvements in sleep structure and carrying risks of augmentation with long-term use. In contrast, alpha-2-delta ligands (e.g., pregabalin, gabapentin) improve sleep efficiency and reduce wakefulness, particularly benefiting patients with sensory symptoms or insomnia. Research on opioids and intravenous iron remains limited, though both show potential: opioids may reduce PLMS and improve sleep but raise respiratory safety concerns, while intravenous iron has shown efficacy, especially in pregnant women and children. We also conducted a meta-analysis assessing treatment effects of dopamine agonists on total sleep time, wakefulness after sleep onset, and sleep stage percentages (N1, N2, N3, REM). Given the heterogeneity of RLS and variable treatment responses across age and sex, future research should prioritize individualized therapeutic strategies and further investigate underexplored options to support precision medicine in RLS.

