The Survival of Germ Cells after Irradiation of the Neonatal Male Rat

Seventy male rats aged four to eight days were exposed to 0–430 r x-irradiation. Counts were made at 12, 24 and 72 hours after irradiation of normal and degenerating germ cells at different developmental stages and of ‘supporting’ cells.

The decrease in the number of gonocytes which normally occurs with advancing age was partially inhibited by irradiation. The number of gonocytes undergoing lysis increased after treatment.

No reduction in the number of type-A spermatogonia was detected until 72 hours after irradiation. In contrast, intermediate-type and type-B spermatogonia, as well as primary spermatocytes, became markedly depleted at 72 hours.

The numbers of normal ‘supporting’ cells decreased sharply after irradiation. Cells undergoing degeneration were consistently more numerous in irradiated than in control animals.

While the radio-sensitivity of intermediate-type and type-B spermatogonia is of the same order in neonatal and adult rats, type-A spermatogonia are slightly more radio-sensitive in the adult.

Irradiation of the testis of the neonatal rat appears to cause inhibition of mitosis as well as cell-death.     

Level 1 neonatal nursing staff perceptions of their role: A qualitative Framework Analysis study investigating the complex and diverse workload undertaken by nurses in special care baby units

This study investigated Level 1 Special Care Bay Unit (SCBU) nurses’ perceptions of the skills required for their role. Eight nurses from a UK inner city Level 1 neonatal unit participated in qualitative interviews about their role. Analyses were based on data collected from semi -structured interviews supported by open -ended questions and use of a topic guide. The SRQR (Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research) checklist was used as a framework to support the qualitative analytical methods undertaken. Level 1 neonatal nurses reported use of a wide range of skills with a high level of parent – infant engagement. Analysis of the participant interviews revealed six themes: a) balancing nursing workload and demands; b) delivering nursing care in a Level 1 SCBU; c) managing clinical risk and emergencies; d) function and sustainability of a SCBU neonatal team; e) delivering family-centered care; and f) external perceptions of Level 1 nursing care. Work on a Level 1 unit consists of a broad range of skills, possibly greater in scope in comparison with skills used by neonatal nurses on Level 2 and Level 3 units. Further in - depth analysis of this role would be useful for the development of practice skills and for recruitment and retention.