Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Thesis Format

Monograph

Degree

Master of Science

Program

Neuroscience

Supervisor

Dr. Sandrine De Ribaupierre

2nd Supervisor

Dr. Roy Eagleson

Co-Supervisor

Abstract

This thesis describes studies which explore the impact of infantile hydrocephalus on the posterior cortex, specifically focusing on the parietal and occipital lobes. Using resting-state functional MRI, the functional connectivity within the visuomotor integration network was investigated and connectivity was traced through the corpus callosum. We hypothesized that children with hydrocephalus would demonstrate altered functional connectivity compared to typically developing controls. Our findings revealed that patients had reduced functional connectivity in visuomotor pathways, particularly the inferior frontal occipital fasciculus, superior longitudinal fasciculus, and the frontal aslant tract, with notable impact on the left and right fusiform gyrus and precuneus. We observed differences in the size of the corpus callosum at the posterior and mid posterior subdivisions, along with alterations at the microstructural level. It is apparent that these disruptions hindered interhemispheric communication, affecting the efficient exchange of stimuli and signals required for coordinated functioning. Children with hydrocephalus performed significantly lower in tasks involving visual perception, fine motor manipulation, and visuomotor coordination.

Summary for Lay Audience

The research study explores the impact of infantile hydrocephalus on specific brain regions responsible for visual processing and movement. To analyze these regions, we used a brain imaging technique that allows us to study how different parts of the brain interact with each other. We also considered the corpus callosum, a communication bridge connecting the brain's left and right sides, allowing them to share information. Results revealed that children with hydrocephalus exhibited fewer connections between certain brain regions responsible for coordinating visual processing and movement. Additionally, changes in the size and structure of the corpus callosum were found in children with hydrocephalus, affecting information flow between brain halves. These findings explain why children with hydrocephalus may face challenges in tasks related to their visuomotor abilities. Understanding these results is crucial for developing improved treatments, addressing brain connection disruptions, and supporting the functions of the corpus callosum.

Erratum

Author requested change to thesis title from: “Assessing the Impact of Infantile Hydrocephalus on Visuomotor Integration through Behavioural and Neuroimaging Studies” to “Investigating the Effects of Infantile Hydrocephalus on Visuomotor Integration: A Study Utilizing Behavioural and Neuroimaging Analyses” since manuscript has been published under the same name.

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