Date of Award

Summer 8-12-2024

Embargo Period

8-12-2026

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health & Rehabilitation Science

Department

Health Sciences and Research

College

College of Health Professions

First Advisor

Heather Bonilha

Second Advisor

Dorothea Jenkins

Third Advisor

Janina Wilmskoetter

Fourth Advisor

Christina Pelatti

Abstract

This dissertation investigates innovative approaches to improve feeding and swallowing outcomes in infants, particularly those born prematurely or with brain injury. It focuses on understanding the neural networks involved in sucking and swallowing by utilizing diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI), a more sensitive neuroimaging technique than traditional MRI, and the BaByVFSSImP, a standardized tool for assessing swallow function. Additionally, the research explores the use of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) as a neuromodulation technique to enhance oral feeding skills. The study found no adverse effects from taVNS on airway protection or swallowing physiology. Furthermore, there were some possible associations between specific white matter tracts and components of sucking and swallowing identified. Although these findings are preliminary and should be interpreted with caution. Larger studies are needed to confirm these results and to further explore the neurophysiological underpinnings of infant feeding and swallowing skills. The work provides a foundation for larger, future studies investigating the role of white matter tracts in infant feeding and swallowing.

Rights

Copyright is held by the author. All rights reserved.

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Available for download on Wednesday, August 12, 2026

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