Otoacoustic Emission Estimates of Human Basilar Membrane Impulse Response Duration and Cochlear Filter Tuning

Publication date: Available online 27 October 2016
Source:Hearing Research
Author(s): Stefan Raufer, Sarah Verhulst
This study describes a method based on temporal suppression of click-evoked otoacoustic emissions (CEOAEs) to estimate the time course and duration of human basilar membrane impulse responses (BM IRs). This was achieved by tracing the suppression of dominant peaks in the CEOAE spectrum as a function of the temporal separation between two equal-level stimulus clicks. The relationship between the suppression pattern and underlying BM IR duration near the generation site of the CEOAE frequency was established using model simulations. To relate BM IR duration estimates to cochlear filter tuning (aQERB), a tuning ratio was derived from available BM IR measurements in animals. Results for 11 normal-hearing subjects yielded BM IR duration estimates of 37.4/F ms at 65 dB peSPL and 36.4/F ms at 71 dB peSPL, with F in kHz. Corresponding QERB estimates were 14.2F[in kHz]^0.22 at 65 dB peSPL and 13.8F[in kHz]^0.22 at 71 dB peSPL. Because the proposed temporal suppression method relies on cochlear nonlinearity, the method is applicable for stimulus levels above 30–40 dB SPL and complements existing OAE methods to assess human cochlear filter tuning.



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Plastic Changes along Auditory Pathway during Salicylate-Induced Ototoxicity: Hyperactivity and CF Shifts

Publication date: Available online 27 October 2016
Source:Hearing Research
Author(s): Chen Jiang, Bin Luo, Senthilvelan Manohar, Guang-Di Chen, Richard Salvi
High dose of salicylate, the active ingredient in aspirin, has long been known to induce transient hearing loss, tinnitus and hyperacusis making it a powerful experimental tool. These salicylate-induced perceptual disturbances are associated with a massive reduction in the neural output of the cochlea. Paradoxically, the diminished neural output of the cochlea is accompanied by a dramatic increase in sound-evoked activity in the auditory cortex (AC) and several other parts of the central nervous system. Exactly where the increase in neural activity begins and builds up along the central auditory pathway are not fully understood. To address this issue, we measured sound-evoked neural activity in the cochlea, cochlear nucleus (CN), inferior colliculus (IC), and AC before and after administering a high dose of sodium salicylate (SS, 300 mg/kg). The SS-treatment abolished low-level sound-evoked responses along the auditory pathway resulting in a 20-30 dB threshold shift. While the neural output of the cochlea was substantially reduced at high intensities, the neural responses in the CN were only slightly reduced; those in the IC were nearly normal or slightly enhanced while those in the AC considerably enhanced, indicative of a progress increase in central gain. The SS-induced increase in central response in the IC and AC was frequency-dependent with the greatest increase occurring in the mid-frequency range the putative pitch of SS-induced tinnitus. This frequency-dependent hyperactivity appeared to result from shifts in the frequency receptive fields (FRF) such that the response areas of many FRF shifted/expanded toward the mid-frequencies. Our results suggest that the SS-induced threshold shift originates in the cochlea. In contrast, enhanced central gain is not localized to one region, but progressively builds up at successively higher stage of the auditory pathway either through a loss of inhibition and/or increased excitation.

Graphical abstract

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Impulsive Noise: A Brief Review

Publication date: Available online 27 October 2016
Source:Hearing Research
Author(s): Rickie R. Davis, Odile Clavier




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The Effect of Sensorineural Hearing Loss and Tinnitus on Speech Recognition over Air and Bone Conduction Military Communications Headsets

Publication date: Available online 27 October 2016
Source:Hearing Research
Author(s): Candice Manning, Timothy Mermagen, Angelique Scharine
Military personnel are at risk for hearing loss due to noise exposure during deployment (USACHPPM, 2008). Despite mandated use of hearing protection, hearing loss and tinnitus are prevalent due to reluctance to use hearing protection. Bone conduction headsets can offer good speech intelligibility for normal hearing (NH)¹ listeners while allowing the ears to remain open in quiet environments and the use of hearing protection when needed. Those who suffer from tinnitus, the experience of perceiving a sound not produced by an external source, often show degraded speech recognition; however, it is unclear whether this is a result of decreased hearing sensitivity or increased distractibility (Moon et al., 2015). It has been suggested that the vibratory stimulation of a bone conduction headset might ameliorate the effects of tinnitus on speech perception; however, there is currently no research to support or refute this claim (Hoare et al., 2014). Speech recognition of words presented over air conduction and bone conduction headsets was measured for three groups of listeners: NH, sensorineural hearing impaired, and/or tinnitus sufferers. Three levels of speech-to-noise (SNR=0,-6,-12 dB) were created by embedding speech items in pink noise. Better speech recognition performance was observed with the bone conduction headset regardless of hearing profile, and speech intelligibility was a function of SNR. Discussion will include study limitations and the implications of these findings for those serving in the military.



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Effects of long-term non-traumatic noise exposure on the adult central auditory system. Hearing problems without hearing loss

Publication date: Available online 26 October 2016
Source:Hearing Research
Author(s): Jos J. Eggermont
It is known that hearing loss induces plastic changes in the brain, causing loudness recruitment and hyperacusis, increased spontaneous firing rates and neural synchrony, reorganizations of the cortical tonotopic maps, and tinnitus. Much less in known about the central effects of exposure to sounds that cause a temporary hearing loss, affect the ribbon synapses in the inner hair cells, and cause a loss of high-threshold auditory nerve fibers. In contrast there is a wealth of information about central effects of long-duration sound exposures at levels ≤ 80 dB SPL that do not even cause a temporary hearing loss. The central effects for these moderate level exposures described in this review include changes in central gain, increased spontaneous firing rates and neural synchrony, and reorganization of the cortical tonotopic map. A putative mechanism is outlined, and the effect of the acoustic environment during the recovery process is illustrated. Parallels are drawn with hearing problems in humans with long-duration exposures to occupational noise but with clinical normal hearing.



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Otoacoustic Emission Estimates of Human Basilar Membrane Impulse Response Duration and Cochlear Filter Tuning

Publication date: Available online 27 October 2016
Source:Hearing Research
Author(s): Stefan Raufer, Sarah Verhulst
This study describes a method based on temporal suppression of click-evoked otoacoustic emissions (CEOAEs) to estimate the time course and duration of human basilar membrane impulse responses (BM IRs). This was achieved by tracing the suppression of dominant peaks in the CEOAE spectrum as a function of the temporal separation between two equal-level stimulus clicks. The relationship between the suppression pattern and underlying BM IR duration near the generation site of the CEOAE frequency was established using model simulations. To relate BM IR duration estimates to cochlear filter tuning (aQERB), a tuning ratio was derived from available BM IR measurements in animals. Results for 11 normal-hearing subjects yielded BM IR duration estimates of 37.4/F ms at 65 dB peSPL and 36.4/F ms at 71 dB peSPL, with F in kHz. Corresponding QERB estimates were 14.2F[in kHz]^0.22 at 65 dB peSPL and 13.8F[in kHz]^0.22 at 71 dB peSPL. Because the proposed temporal suppression method relies on cochlear nonlinearity, the method is applicable for stimulus levels above 30–40 dB SPL and complements existing OAE methods to assess human cochlear filter tuning.



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Plastic Changes along Auditory Pathway during Salicylate-Induced Ototoxicity: Hyperactivity and CF Shifts

Publication date: Available online 27 October 2016
Source:Hearing Research
Author(s): Chen Jiang, Bin Luo, Senthilvelan Manohar, Guang-Di Chen, Richard Salvi
High dose of salicylate, the active ingredient in aspirin, has long been known to induce transient hearing loss, tinnitus and hyperacusis making it a powerful experimental tool. These salicylate-induced perceptual disturbances are associated with a massive reduction in the neural output of the cochlea. Paradoxically, the diminished neural output of the cochlea is accompanied by a dramatic increase in sound-evoked activity in the auditory cortex (AC) and several other parts of the central nervous system. Exactly where the increase in neural activity begins and builds up along the central auditory pathway are not fully understood. To address this issue, we measured sound-evoked neural activity in the cochlea, cochlear nucleus (CN), inferior colliculus (IC), and AC before and after administering a high dose of sodium salicylate (SS, 300 mg/kg). The SS-treatment abolished low-level sound-evoked responses along the auditory pathway resulting in a 20-30 dB threshold shift. While the neural output of the cochlea was substantially reduced at high intensities, the neural responses in the CN were only slightly reduced; those in the IC were nearly normal or slightly enhanced while those in the AC considerably enhanced, indicative of a progress increase in central gain. The SS-induced increase in central response in the IC and AC was frequency-dependent with the greatest increase occurring in the mid-frequency range the putative pitch of SS-induced tinnitus. This frequency-dependent hyperactivity appeared to result from shifts in the frequency receptive fields (FRF) such that the response areas of many FRF shifted/expanded toward the mid-frequencies. Our results suggest that the SS-induced threshold shift originates in the cochlea. In contrast, enhanced central gain is not localized to one region, but progressively builds up at successively higher stage of the auditory pathway either through a loss of inhibition and/or increased excitation.

Graphical abstract

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Impulsive Noise: A Brief Review

Publication date: Available online 27 October 2016
Source:Hearing Research
Author(s): Rickie R. Davis, Odile Clavier




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The Effect of Sensorineural Hearing Loss and Tinnitus on Speech Recognition over Air and Bone Conduction Military Communications Headsets

Publication date: Available online 27 October 2016
Source:Hearing Research
Author(s): Candice Manning, Timothy Mermagen, Angelique Scharine
Military personnel are at risk for hearing loss due to noise exposure during deployment (USACHPPM, 2008). Despite mandated use of hearing protection, hearing loss and tinnitus are prevalent due to reluctance to use hearing protection. Bone conduction headsets can offer good speech intelligibility for normal hearing (NH)¹ listeners while allowing the ears to remain open in quiet environments and the use of hearing protection when needed. Those who suffer from tinnitus, the experience of perceiving a sound not produced by an external source, often show degraded speech recognition; however, it is unclear whether this is a result of decreased hearing sensitivity or increased distractibility (Moon et al., 2015). It has been suggested that the vibratory stimulation of a bone conduction headset might ameliorate the effects of tinnitus on speech perception; however, there is currently no research to support or refute this claim (Hoare et al., 2014). Speech recognition of words presented over air conduction and bone conduction headsets was measured for three groups of listeners: NH, sensorineural hearing impaired, and/or tinnitus sufferers. Three levels of speech-to-noise (SNR=0,-6,-12 dB) were created by embedding speech items in pink noise. Better speech recognition performance was observed with the bone conduction headset regardless of hearing profile, and speech intelligibility was a function of SNR. Discussion will include study limitations and the implications of these findings for those serving in the military.



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Effects of long-term non-traumatic noise exposure on the adult central auditory system. Hearing problems without hearing loss

Publication date: Available online 26 October 2016
Source:Hearing Research
Author(s): Jos J. Eggermont
It is known that hearing loss induces plastic changes in the brain, causing loudness recruitment and hyperacusis, increased spontaneous firing rates and neural synchrony, reorganizations of the cortical tonotopic maps, and tinnitus. Much less in known about the central effects of exposure to sounds that cause a temporary hearing loss, affect the ribbon synapses in the inner hair cells, and cause a loss of high-threshold auditory nerve fibers. In contrast there is a wealth of information about central effects of long-duration sound exposures at levels ≤ 80 dB SPL that do not even cause a temporary hearing loss. The central effects for these moderate level exposures described in this review include changes in central gain, increased spontaneous firing rates and neural synchrony, and reorganization of the cortical tonotopic map. A putative mechanism is outlined, and the effect of the acoustic environment during the recovery process is illustrated. Parallels are drawn with hearing problems in humans with long-duration exposures to occupational noise but with clinical normal hearing.



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Otoacoustic Emission Estimates of Human Basilar Membrane Impulse Response Duration and Cochlear Filter Tuning

Publication date: Available online 27 October 2016
Source:Hearing Research
Author(s): Stefan Raufer, Sarah Verhulst
This study describes a method based on temporal suppression of click-evoked otoacoustic emissions (CEOAEs) to estimate the time course and duration of human basilar membrane impulse responses (BM IRs). This was achieved by tracing the suppression of dominant peaks in the CEOAE spectrum as a function of the temporal separation between two equal-level stimulus clicks. The relationship between the suppression pattern and underlying BM IR duration near the generation site of the CEOAE frequency was established using model simulations. To relate BM IR duration estimates to cochlear filter tuning (aQERB), a tuning ratio was derived from available BM IR measurements in animals. Results for 11 normal-hearing subjects yielded BM IR duration estimates of 37.4/F ms at 65 dB peSPL and 36.4/F ms at 71 dB peSPL, with F in kHz. Corresponding QERB estimates were 14.2F[in kHz]^0.22 at 65 dB peSPL and 13.8F[in kHz]^0.22 at 71 dB peSPL. Because the proposed temporal suppression method relies on cochlear nonlinearity, the method is applicable for stimulus levels above 30–40 dB SPL and complements existing OAE methods to assess human cochlear filter tuning.



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Plastic Changes along Auditory Pathway during Salicylate-Induced Ototoxicity: Hyperactivity and CF Shifts

Publication date: Available online 27 October 2016
Source:Hearing Research
Author(s): Chen Jiang, Bin Luo, Senthilvelan Manohar, Guang-Di Chen, Richard Salvi
High dose of salicylate, the active ingredient in aspirin, has long been known to induce transient hearing loss, tinnitus and hyperacusis making it a powerful experimental tool. These salicylate-induced perceptual disturbances are associated with a massive reduction in the neural output of the cochlea. Paradoxically, the diminished neural output of the cochlea is accompanied by a dramatic increase in sound-evoked activity in the auditory cortex (AC) and several other parts of the central nervous system. Exactly where the increase in neural activity begins and builds up along the central auditory pathway are not fully understood. To address this issue, we measured sound-evoked neural activity in the cochlea, cochlear nucleus (CN), inferior colliculus (IC), and AC before and after administering a high dose of sodium salicylate (SS, 300 mg/kg). The SS-treatment abolished low-level sound-evoked responses along the auditory pathway resulting in a 20-30 dB threshold shift. While the neural output of the cochlea was substantially reduced at high intensities, the neural responses in the CN were only slightly reduced; those in the IC were nearly normal or slightly enhanced while those in the AC considerably enhanced, indicative of a progress increase in central gain. The SS-induced increase in central response in the IC and AC was frequency-dependent with the greatest increase occurring in the mid-frequency range the putative pitch of SS-induced tinnitus. This frequency-dependent hyperactivity appeared to result from shifts in the frequency receptive fields (FRF) such that the response areas of many FRF shifted/expanded toward the mid-frequencies. Our results suggest that the SS-induced threshold shift originates in the cochlea. In contrast, enhanced central gain is not localized to one region, but progressively builds up at successively higher stage of the auditory pathway either through a loss of inhibition and/or increased excitation.

Graphical abstract

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Impulsive Noise: A Brief Review

Publication date: Available online 27 October 2016
Source:Hearing Research
Author(s): Rickie R. Davis, Odile Clavier




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The Effect of Sensorineural Hearing Loss and Tinnitus on Speech Recognition over Air and Bone Conduction Military Communications Headsets

Publication date: Available online 27 October 2016
Source:Hearing Research
Author(s): Candice Manning, Timothy Mermagen, Angelique Scharine
Military personnel are at risk for hearing loss due to noise exposure during deployment (USACHPPM, 2008). Despite mandated use of hearing protection, hearing loss and tinnitus are prevalent due to reluctance to use hearing protection. Bone conduction headsets can offer good speech intelligibility for normal hearing (NH)¹ listeners while allowing the ears to remain open in quiet environments and the use of hearing protection when needed. Those who suffer from tinnitus, the experience of perceiving a sound not produced by an external source, often show degraded speech recognition; however, it is unclear whether this is a result of decreased hearing sensitivity or increased distractibility (Moon et al., 2015). It has been suggested that the vibratory stimulation of a bone conduction headset might ameliorate the effects of tinnitus on speech perception; however, there is currently no research to support or refute this claim (Hoare et al., 2014). Speech recognition of words presented over air conduction and bone conduction headsets was measured for three groups of listeners: NH, sensorineural hearing impaired, and/or tinnitus sufferers. Three levels of speech-to-noise (SNR=0,-6,-12 dB) were created by embedding speech items in pink noise. Better speech recognition performance was observed with the bone conduction headset regardless of hearing profile, and speech intelligibility was a function of SNR. Discussion will include study limitations and the implications of these findings for those serving in the military.



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Unilateral Hearing Loss: What to Do?

Patients with unilateral hearing loss can present with variable issues. Much is dependent on the severity of the hearing loss (threshold and speech understanding), age of onset, hearing status of contralateral ear, and presence of comorbidities (e.g., vertigo, cognitive status, central auditory processing, hyperacusis, tinnitus, disease/pathology/disorder, etc.). Adult-onset severe-to-profound unilateral sensorineural hearing loss with normal hearing sensitivity in the contralateral ear presents a unique dilemma.

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A Review of Vocal Loading Tasks in the Voice Literature

Publication date: Available online 26 October 2016
Source:Journal of Voice
Author(s): Robert Brinton Fujiki, M. Preeti Sivasankar
Vocal loading tasks (VLTs) are used to assess range of function and vulnerability of the laryngeal system. The manner in which VLTs compromise the laryngeal mechanism is multifaceted and only partially understood. This paper presents a scoping review of the literature on VLTs and their effects on the healthy voice. This review paper details the varied nature of VLT duration, task type, and additional factors including hydration and ambient noise that have been used to compromise the larynx. In addition, the voice measures used to assess the effects of VLTs on the healthy larynx are discussed. This study details the current state of the literature, draws conclusions from our current knowledge, and provides directions for further research.



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Speech and OSA: Could Lower Formant Frequencies of the Vowels Only Be Expected in Subjects with Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Publication date: Available online 26 October 2016
Source:Journal of Voice
Author(s): Yusuf K. Kemaloğlu, Güven Mengü




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High-speed Videolaryngoscopy: Quantitative Parameters of Glottal Area Waveforms and High-speed Kymography in Healthy Individuals

Publication date: Available online 25 October 2016
Source:Journal of Voice
Author(s): Monike Tsutsumi, Seiji Isotani, Regina Aparecida Pimenta, Maria Eugenia Dajer, Adriana Hachiya, Domingos Hiroshi Tsuji, Niro Tayama, Hisayuki Yokonishi, Hiroshi Imagawa, Akihito Yamauchi, Shingo Takano, Ken-Ichi Sakakibara, Arlindo Neto Montagnoli
ObjectivesWe conducted a study to obtain quantitative parameters of the vocal dynamic using high-speed videolaryngoscopy and to characterize the vocal fold vibration pattern of healthy individuals by analyzing glottal area waveforms and high-speed kymography.MethodsLaryngeal images of 45 healthy individuals were captured using high-speed videolaryngoscopy. The open and speed quotients of the glottal area waveforms and high-speed kymography were obtained and statistically analyzed according to the gender of each individual.ResultsGlottal area waveforms revealed average values of 0.85 and 1.16 for open and speed quotients, respectively, for women, and 0.70 and 1.19 for men. Using high-speed kymography, quantitative parameters of open and speed quotients for women were 0.62 and 1.02, respectively, and for men were 0.57 and 1.12. By gender, a significant statistical difference emerged for open quotients obtained from both glottal area waveforms (P = 0.004) and high-speed kymography (P = 0.013).ConclusionObtained by using computational tools specifically for analyzing laryngeal images from high-speed videolaryngoscopy, quantitative parameters of glottal area waveforms and high-speed kymography in healthy individuals provide reference data and normality for future studies.



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Adverse Reaction to Hyaluronic Acid Injection Laryngoplasty: A Case Report

Publication date: Available online 21 October 2016
Source:Journal of Voice
Author(s): Henri Traboulsi, Tamer El Natout, Ghassan Skaff, Abdul-Latif Hamdan
IntroductionInjection laryngoplasty using hyaluronic acid is a safe procedure commonly performed on patients with glottic insufficiency.Study DesignThis is a descriptive study of a case of adverse reaction to hyaluronic acid in a patient who underwent injection laryngoplasty for the treatment of unilateral vocal cord paralysis.DiscussionThe patient was treated with antibiotics and corticosteroids and had a full recovery. The authors recommend close observation following injection laryngoplasty using hyaluronic acid and diligent investigation of persistent postoperative laryngopharyngeal symptoms.



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Laboratory Evaluation of Vocal Fold Paralysis and Paresis

Publication date: Available online 21 October 2016
Source:Journal of Voice
Author(s): Michelle White, Kirsten Meenan, Tirth Patel, Aaron Jaworek, Robert T. Sataloff
ObjectivesThis study aimed to assess the value of comprehensive laboratory evaluation in patients with vocal fold paralysis or paresis.Study DesignThis is a retrospective chart review.MethodsRecords of 231 patients with vocal fold paralysis or paresis were reviewed to determine whether there is a significant increase in the number of abnormal test results compared with rates of abnormal results for these tests in the general population and whether testing resulted in clinically important diagnosis. Laboratory data were collected from charts from initial visits from 2010 to 2014 and compared with national data.ResultsWhen controlled for age and sex, white blood cell count was found to have a significantly higher rate of abnormal test results (P < 0.001) in patients with vocal fold paralysis or paresis than the general population. Although hemoglobin, thyroid-stimulating hormone, and thyroid antibody tests were more likely to be abnormal in our patient population, the trend was not statistically significant. Further, the prevalence of syphilis and myasthenia gravis was found to be higher in these subjects than their respective national prevalences, and the incidence of Lyme disease was found to be higher than the national prevalence of Lyme disease. Several patients were diagnosed with medically important conditions such as diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, syphilis, myasthenia gravis, and Lyme disease based on these tests.ConclusionThis study suggests that comprehensive testing of patients with vocal fold movement disorders results in diagnoses that would be missed without a comprehensive evaluation, some of which are important medically, although their causal relationship to vocal fold paralysis or paresis was not investigated or established.



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Protective Effect of Astaxanthin on Vocal Fold Injury and Inflammation Due to Vocal Loading: A Clinical Trial

Publication date: Available online 26 October 2016
Source:Journal of Voice
Author(s): Mami Kaneko, Yo Kishimoto, Ryo Suzuki, Yoshitaka Kawai, Ichiro Tateya, Shigeru Hirano
ObjectivesProfessional voice users, such as singers and teachers, are at greater risk of developing vocal fold injury from excessive use of voice; thus, protection of the vocal fold is essential. One of the most important factors that aggravates injury is the production of reactive oxygen species at the wound site. The purpose of the current study was to assess the effect of astaxanthin, a strong antioxidant, on the protection of the vocal fold from injury and inflammation due to vocal loading.Study DesignThis study is an institutional review board-approved human clinical trial.MethodsTen male subjects underwent a 60-minute vocal loading session and received vocal assessments prior to, immediately after, and 30 minutes postvocal loading (AST(−) status). All subjects were then prescribed 24 mg/day of astaxanthin for 28 days, after which they received the same vocal task and assessments (AST(+) status). Phonatory parameters were compared between both groups.ResultsAerodynamic assessment, acoustic analysis, and GRBAS scale (grade, roughness, breathiness, asthenia, and strain) were significantly worse in the AST(−) status immediately after vocal loading, but improved by 30 minutes after loading. In contrast, none of the phonatory parameters in the AST(+) status were statistically worse, even when measured immediately after vocal loading. No allergic responses or adverse effects were observed after administration of astaxanthin.ConclusionsThe current results suggest that astaxanthin can protect the vocal fold from injury and inflammation caused by vocal loading possibly through the regulation of oxidative stress.



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Metabolic Mechanisms of Vocal Fatigue

Publication date: Available online 21 October 2016
Source:Journal of Voice
Author(s): Chayadevie Nanjundeswaran, Jessie VanSwearingen, Katherine Verdolini Abbott
ObjectiveThis study aimed to identify potential metabolic mechanisms including (1) neuromuscular inefficiency, (2) cardiovascular recovery deficits, or (3) both, in individuals with complaints of vocal fatigue.Study DesignWithin- and between-subjects group design was used in this study.MethodsThree groups of women participated in the study, including (1) individuals with complaints of vocal fatigue; (2) vocally healthy sedentary individuals; and (3) vocally healthy, cardiovascularly conditioned individuals. Group assignment was based on results from the Vocal Fatigue Index, laryngeal examination, and self-report regarding exercise regimens. Metabolic profiles were obtained using gas exchange measures monitored during vocal task performance (reading) at two different loudness levels, and during recovery from reading.ResultsStatistical analyses did not reveal reliable group differences in metabolic cost for or recovery from vocal tasks. However, descriptive review of oxygen uptake and recovery kinetics revealed patterns indicating reliance on differential energy resources for the vocal task in individuals with vocal fatigue compared with cardiovascularly trained, vocally healthy individuals in particular. Slow oxygen uptake kinetics at task onset was a characteristic of the vocal fatigue group, indicating a general reliance on anaerobic resources to meet the demands of the vocal task, pointing to possible neuromuscular inefficiency. Individuals with vocal fatigue also demonstrated an increase in oxygen consumption following vocal task compared with cardiovascularly trained individuals, suggesting possible cardiovascular recovery deficits.ConclusionThis study provides initial data relevant to possible metabolic mechanisms of vocal fatigue and the potential relevance of aerobic conditioning in individuals with such fatigue.



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Perturbation Measurements on the Degree of Naturalness of Synthesized Vowels

Publication date: Available online 21 October 2016
Source:Journal of Voice
Author(s): Rosiane Yamasaki, Arlindo Montagnoli, Emi Z. Murano, Eloisa Gebrim, Adriana Hachiya, Jorge Vicente Lopes da Silva, Mara Behlau, Domingos Tsuji
ObjectiveTo determine the impact of jitter and shimmer on the degree of naturalness perception of synthesized vowels produced by acoustical simulation with glottal pulses (GP) and with solid model of the vocal tract (SMVT).Study DesignProspective study.MethodsSynthesized vowels were produced in three steps: 1. Eighty GP were developed (20 with jitter, 20 with shimmer, 20 with jitter+shimmer, 20 without perturbation); 2. A SMVT was produced based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) from a woman during phonation-/ε/ and using rapid prototyping technology; 3. Acoustic simulations were performed to obtain eighty synthesized vowels-/ε /. Two experiments were performed. First Experiment: three judges rated 120 vowels (20 humans+80 synthesized+20% repetition) as “human” or “synthesized”. Second Experiment: twenty PowerPoint slide sequences were created. Each slide had 4 synthesized vowels produced with the four perturbation condition. Evaluators were asked to rate the vowels from the most natural to the most artificial.ResultsFirst Experiment: all the human vowels were classified as human; 27 out of eighty synthesized vowels were rated as human, 15 of those were produced with jitter+shimmer, 10 with jitter, 2 without perturbation and none with shimmer. Second Experiment: Vowels produced with jitter+shimmer were considered as the most natural. Vowels with shimmer and without perturbation were considered as the most artificial.ConclusionsThe association of jitter and shimmer increased the degree of naturalness of synthesized vowels. Acoustic simulations performed with GP and using SMVT demonstrated a possible method to test the effect of the perturbation measurements on synthesized voices.



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Voice Habits and Behaviors: Voice Care Among Flamenco Singers

Publication date: Available online 21 October 2016
Source:Journal of Voice
Author(s): Marina Garzón García, Juana Muñoz López, Elvira y Mendoza Lara
PurposeThe purpose of this study is to analyze the vocal behavior of flamenco singers, as compared with classical music singers, to establish a differential vocal profile of voice habits and behaviors in flamenco music.MethodBibliographic review was conducted, and the Singer's Vocal Habits Questionnaire, an experimental tool designed by the authors to gather data regarding hygiene behavior, drinking and smoking habits, type of practice, voice care, and symptomatology perceived in both the singing and the speaking voice, was administered. We interviewed 94 singers, divided into two groups: the flamenco experimental group (FEG, n = 48) and the classical control group (CCG, n = 46). Frequency analysis, a Likert scale, and discriminant and exploratory factor analysis were used to obtain a differential profile for each group.ResultsThe FEG scored higher than the CCG in speaking voice symptomatology. The FEG scored significantly higher than the CCG in use of “inadequate vocal technique” when singing. Regarding voice habits, the FEG scored higher in “lack of practice and warm-up” and “environmental habits.” A total of 92.6% of the subjects classified themselves correctly in each group.ConclusionsThe Singer's Vocal Habits Questionnaire has proven effective in differentiating flamenco and classical singers. Flamenco singers are exposed to numerous vocal risk factors that make them more prone to vocal fatigue, mucosa dehydration, phonotrauma, and muscle stiffness than classical singers. Further research is needed in voice training in flamenco music, as a means to strengthen the voice and enable it to meet the requirements of this musical genre.



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Validity and Reliability of the Filipino Reflux Symptom Index

Publication date: Available online 21 October 2016
Source:Journal of Voice
Author(s): José Florencio F. Lapeña, Giancarla Marie C. Ambrocio, Ryner Jose D. Carrillo
ObjectivesThis study aimed to establish validity and reliability of the Filipino Reflux Symptom Index (FRSI) and to test it among patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) before and after 6 months' trial of rabeprazole.Study DesignA case-control study was carried out.MethodsThere were 35 LPR patients and 30 controls who were twice-administered the FRSI and Filipino Voice Handicap Index (FVHI) for test-retest reliability, and videostroboscopy was performed to obtain baseline reflux finding scores (RFSs). Patients took rabeprazole 20 mg twice daily for 6 months. The FRSI and FVHI were readministered a third time, repeat videostroboscopy was performed, and repeat RFS was obtained. Reliability, validity, and internal consistency were computed.ResultsA total of 58 participants, 29 patients and controls each, aged 22–65 years completed the study. FVHI 2:1 and FRSI 2:1 significantly correlated with no significant differences between FRSI 2:1. FRSI had good item-total correlations indicating psychometrically sound items. There were significant differences between patients and controls for FRSI scores and mean scores. FRSI 3 scores were significantly lower than FRSI 1 scores, suggesting symptoms improved after treatment. There were no significant differences between RFS 2 and 1. Significant differences between FRSI 3 and 1, but not between FVHI 3 and 1, suggest the FRSI was more sensitive to changes in reflux after 6 months' intervention than the FVHI.ConclusionsThe FRSI is a valid and reliable tool for assessing LPR symptoms and may be used for primary care screening among Filipinos. Initial response to a 2-week empirical proton pump inhibitor trial may support an impression of LPR; non-response warrants specialist referral for further investigation.



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Efficacy of Water Resistance Therapy in Subjects Diagnosed With Behavioral Dysphonia: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Publication date: Available online 18 October 2016
Source:Journal of Voice
Author(s): Marco Guzman, Rodrigo Jara, Christian Olavarria, Paloma Caceres, Geordette Escuti, Fernanda Medina, Laura Medina, Sofia Madrid, Daniel Muñoz, Anne-Maria Laukkanen
PurposeThe purpose of the present study was to determine the efficacy of water resistance therapy (WRT) in a long-term period of voice treatment in subjects diagnosed with voice disorders.MethodsTwenty participants, with behavioral dysphonia, were randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups: (1) voice treatment with WRT, and (2) voice treatment with tube phonation with the distal end in air (TPA). Before and after voice therapy, participants underwent aerodynamic, electroglottographic, acoustic, and auditory-perceptual assessments. The Voice Handicap Index and self-assessment of resonant voice quality were also performed. The treatment included eight voice therapy sessions. For the WRT group, the exercises consisted of a sequence of five phonatory tasks performed with a drinking straw submerged 5 cm into water. For the TPA, the exercises consisted of the same phonatory tasks, and all of them were performed into the same straw but the distal end was in air.ResultsWilcoxon test showed significant improvements for both groups for Voice Handicap Index (decrease), subglottic pressure (decrease), phonation threshold pressure (decrease), and self-perception of resonant voice quality (increase). Improvement in auditory-perceptual assessment was found only for the TPA group. No significant differences were found for any acoustic or electroglottographic variables. No significant differences were found between WRT and TPA groups for any variable.ConclusionsWRT and TPA may improve voice function and self-perceived voice quality in individuals with behavioral dysphonia. No differences between these therapy protocols should be expected.



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Shape of Thyroid Cartilage Influences Outcome of Montgomery Medialization Thyroplasty: A Gender Issue

Publication date: Available online 18 October 2016
Source:Journal of Voice
Author(s): Gauthier Desuter, Sylvie Henrard, Julie T. Van Lith-Bijl, Avigaëlle Amory, Thierry Duprez, Peter Paul van Benthem, Elisabeth Sjögren
ObjectiveThis study aimed to determine whether the shape of the thyroid cartilage and gender influence voice outcomes after a Montgomery thyroplasty implant system (MTIS).MethodsA retrospective cohort study was performed on 20 consecutive patients who underwent MTIS. Voice outcome variables were the relative decrease in Voice Handicap Index (%) and the absolute increase in maximum phonation time (MPT) (in seconds). Material variables were the angle between the thyroid cartilage laminae (α-angle), the size of the prosthesis, and a combination of both (the α-ratio). Continuous variables were analyzed using medians and were compared between groups using the Mann-Whitney U test. Factors associated with the outcome variables were assessed by multivariable linear regression. A Pearson coefficient was calculated between material variables.ResultsThe absolute increase in MPT between the pre- and postoperative period was significantly different between men and women, with a median absolute increase of 11.0 seconds for men and of 1.3 seconds for women (P < 0.001). A strong inverse correlation between the α-ratio and the absolute increase in MPT is observed in all patients, with a Pearson correlation coefficient R = −0.769 (P < 0.001). No factors were significantly associated with the relative Voice Handicap Index decrease in univariable or multivariable analyses. A better Pearson coefficient between the α-angle and the prosthesis size was found for females (0.8 vs 0.71).ConclusionThe MTIS is a good thyroplasty modality for male patients, but inadequate design of MTIS female implants leads to poor MPT outcomes. This represents a gender issue that needs to be further studied and eventually tackled.



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Relationship Between Acoustic Voice Onset and Offset and Selected Instances of Oscillatory Onset and Offset in Young Healthy Men and Women

Publication date: Available online 18 October 2016
Source:Journal of Voice
Author(s): Rita R. Patel, Karen Forrest, Drew Hedges
ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the relationship between (1) onset of the acoustic signal (X1a) and prephonatory phases associated with oscillatory onset and (2) offset of the acoustic signal (X2a) with the postphonatory events associated with oscillatory offset across vocally healthy adults.Subjects and MethodsHigh-speed videoendoscopy was captured simultaneously with the acoustic signal during repeated production of /hi.hi.hi/ at typical pitch and loudness from 56 vocally healthy adults (aged 20–42 years; 21 men, 35 women). The relationships between the acoustic sound pressure signal and oscillatory onset and offset events from the glottal area waveforms (GAWs) were statistically investigated using a multivariate linear regression analysis.ResultsThe X1a is a significant predictor of the onset of first oscillatory motion (X1g) and onset of sustained oscillations (X2g). X1a as well as gender are significant predictors of the first medial contact of the vocal folds (X1.5g). The X2a is a significant predictor of the first instance of oscillatory offset (X3g), first instance of incomplete glottal closure (X3.5g), and complete cessation of (vocal fold) oscillatory motion (X4g).ConclusionsThe acoustic signal onset is closely related to the X1.5g, but the latency between these events is longer for women compared to men. The X2a occurs immediately after incomplete glottal adduction. The emerging normative group latencies between the onset and offset of the acoustic and the GAW from this study appear promising for future investigations.



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Characteristics of Euphony in Direct and Indirect Mucosal Wave Imaging Techniques

Publication date: Available online 17 October 2016
Source:Journal of Voice
Author(s): Paulina Krasnodębska, Agata Szkiełkowska, Beata Miaśkiewicz, Henryk Skarżyński
ObjectivesThere is a necessity to include objective methods to the study protocol of voice. Such procedure will help not only in diagnosing and monitoring the course of treatment, but also in comparing the results of studies between research centers.MethodsVocal fold mucosal wave characteristics of 70 healthy people were made using videostrobokymographic open quotient (VSKOQ) and electroglottographic quasi-open quotient (EGGQOQ).ResultsStatistically significant differences were achieved regarding gender for the averaged values of VSKOQ as well as for values calculated from the posterior part of the vocal folds. A statistically significant correlation between the value of VSKOQ and age was observed for the posterior part of the glottis. Differences between gender and the value of EGGQOQ were observed. No statistically significant correlation between EGGQOQ and age was obtained.ConclusionsVSKOQ and EGGQOQ are parameters characterizing glottal function in a coherent manner. These parameters can be included easily in phoniatric examination and help to objectify glottal function.



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The Effect of Surface Hydration on Teachers' Voice Quality: An Intervention Study

Publication date: Available online 17 October 2016
Source:Journal of Voice
Author(s): Émile Rocha Santana, Maria Lúcia Vaz Masson, Tânia Maria Araújo
PurposeThis study aimed to investigate the effects of surface hydration on teachers' voice quality.Study DesignThis is an examiner-blinded, pretest and posttest intervention study with a single group of subjects.MethodSubjects were 27 teachers from a public-sector state school in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. Pre- and post-intervention voice recordings were obtained. Voice samples collected underwent computerized acoustic analysis (VoxMetria) and perceptual analysis via the Consensus Auditory-Perceptual Evaluation of Voice. Intervention was conducted daily before teaching for a 4-week period, consisting of 5 minutes of nebulization with saline solution (NaCl 0.9%), after 10 minutes of dehydration breathing through the mouth.ResultsA reduction in the overall level of voice alteration was observed in the Consensus Auditory-Perceptual Evaluation of Voice, but with no statistical significance. The following were observed: an increase in the mean fundamental frequency of the vowel /a:/ (P = 0.036); a statistically significant reduction in the minimum intensity of connected speech (P = 0.028), in the median intensity of connected speech (P = 0.014), and in the maximum intensity of connected speech (P = 0.007). There was also a statistically significant reduction in the minimum (P = 0.001) and mean intensities of spontaneous speech (P = 0.011).ConclusionSurface hydration with saline solution led to an improvement in teachers' voice quality.



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Retinal Diseases Caused by Mutations in Genes Not Specifically Associated with the Clinical Diagnosis

by Xia Wang, Yanming Feng, Jianli Li, Wei Zhang, Jing Wang, Richard A. Lewis, Lee-Jun Wong

Purpose

When seeking a confirmed molecular diagnosis in the research setting, patients with one descriptive diagnosis of retinal disease could carry pathogenic variants in genes not specifically associated with that description. However, this event has not been evaluated systematically in clinical diagnostic laboratories that validate fully all target genes to minimize false negatives/positives.

Methods

We performed targeted next-generation sequencing analysis on 207 ocular disease-related genes for 42 patients whose DNA had been tested negative for disease-specific panels of genes known to be associated with retinitis pigmentosa, Leber congenital amaurosis, or exudative vitreoretinopathy.

Results

Pathogenic variants, including single nucleotide variations and copy number variations, were identified in 9 patients, including 6 with variants in syndromic retinal disease genes and 3 whose molecular diagnosis could not be distinguished easily from their submitted clinical diagnosis, accounting for 21% (9/42) of the unsolved cases.

Conclusion

Our study underscores the clinical and genetic heterogeneity of retinal disorders and provides valuable reference to estimate the fraction of clinical samples whose retinal disorders could be explained by genes not specifically associated with the corresponding clinical diagnosis. Our data suggest that sequencing a larger set of retinal disorder related genes can increase the molecular diagnostic yield, especially for clinically hard-to-distinguish cases.

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Improved Auditory Nerve Survival with Nanoengineered Supraparticles for Neurotrophin Delivery into the Deafened Cochlea

by Andrew K. Wise, Justin Tan, Yajun Wang, Frank Caruso, Robert K. Shepherd

Cochlear implants electrically stimulate spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) in order to provide speech cues to severe-profoundly deaf patients. In normal hearing cochleae the SGNs depend on endogenous neurotrophins secreted by sensory cells in the organ of Corti for survival. SGNs gradually degenerate following deafness and consequently there is considerable interest in developing clinically relevant strategies to provide exogenous neurotrophins to preserve SGN survival. The present study investigated the safety and efficacy of a drug delivery system for the cochlea using nanoengineered silica supraparticles. In the present study we delivered Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) over a period of four weeks and evaluated SGN survival as a measure of efficacy. Supraparticles were bilaterally implanted into the basal turn of cochleae in profoundly deafened guinea pigs. One ear received BDNF-loaded supraparticles and the other ear control (unloaded) supraparticles. After one month of treatment the cochleae were examined histologically. There was significantly greater survival of SGNs in cochleae that received BDNF supraparticles compared to the contralateral control cochleae (repeated measures ANOVA, p = 0.009). SGN survival was observed over a wide extent of the cochlea. The supraparticles were well tolerated within the cochlea with a tissue response that was localised to the site of implantation in the cochlear base. Although mild, the tissue response was significantly greater in cochleae treated with BDNF supraparticles compared to the controls (repeated measures ANOVA, p = 0.003). These data support the clinical potential of this technology particularly as the supraparticles can be loaded with a variety of therapeutic drugs.

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See Photos From Our Annual Open House Event!

The Speech-Language division of our school was happy to welcome over 70 people to the annual Open House on October 14th, 2016.

Participants heard about our MA program in Speech Language Pathology as well as our Joint Doctoral Program in Language and Communicative Disorders, were able to ask questions to our faculty members and students and toured the clinic and research labs in the Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences building.

See the photos!

[See image gallery at slhs.sdsu.edu]

 

 

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See Photos From Our Annual Open House Event!

The Speech-Language division of our school was happy to welcome over 70 people to the annual Open House on October 14th, 2016.

Participants heard about our MA program in Speech Language Pathology as well as our Joint Doctoral Program in Language and Communicative Disorders, were able to ask questions to our faculty members and students and toured the clinic and research labs in the Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences building.

See the photos!

[See image gallery at slhs.sdsu.edu]

 

 

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See Photos From Our Annual Open House Event!

The Speech-Language division of our school was happy to welcome over 70 people to the annual Open House on October 14th, 2016.

Participants heard about our MA program in Speech Language Pathology as well as our Joint Doctoral Program in Language and Communicative Disorders, were able to ask questions to our faculty members and students and toured the clinic and research labs in the Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences building.

See the photos!

[See image gallery at slhs.sdsu.edu]

 

 

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Otoscopic examinations reveal high prevalence of outer and middle ear pathologies in paediatrics in Limpopo, South Africa.

Otoscopic examinations reveal high prevalence of outer and middle ear pathologies in paediatrics in Limpopo, South Africa.

Int J Audiol. 2016 Oct 26;:1-4

Authors: Phanguphangu MC

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of outer and middle ear pathologies in paediatrics in Limpopo, South Africa.
DESIGN: Cross-sectional retrospective review of otoscopy results obtained during a school health screening campaign conducted between March and June 2015. Descriptive statistics through percentages and frequency tables were used to analyse the data. Logistic regression was used to determine associations between age, gender and pathologies observed.
STUDY SAMPLE: Medical folders of 1089 pupils.
RESULTS: Forty-nine percent had normal otoscopy results. A significant 36% (n = 392) had impacted cerumen. Furthermore, 45% of those with impacted cerumen were bilaterally impacted. Additionally, 4% presented with foreign bodies and a further 8% had otitis externa and otitis media. The remaining 3% had tympanic membrane perforations. The odds of developing outer and middle ear pathologies were higher in pupils below 6 years of age (p = 0.046).
CONCLUSION: This study highlights a high prevalence of outer and middle ear pathologies in paediatrics in Limpopo and therefore recommends comprehensive baseline and periodic screenings; to identify children with outer and middle ear pathologies and need further management, and consequently prevent the complications of these pathologies. Additionally, this report highlights a rising need for large-scale research to provide comprehensive analysis of these pathologies.

PMID: 27783901 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Parent perceptions of their child's communication and academic experiences with cochlear implants.

Related Articles

Parent perceptions of their child's communication and academic experiences with cochlear implants.

Int J Audiol. 2016 Oct 26;:1-10

Authors: Nelson LH, Herde L, Munoz K, White KR, Page MD

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To explore parent perceptions of communication and academic experiences of cochlear implant (CI) recipients under the age of 18.
DESIGN: Cross-sectional survey design. Two surveys (K-12, birth-5) queried parent perceptions of the impact of CI on communication, listening in various environments and academic achievement. Surveys contained 16-23 multiple choice and/or Likert ratings, plus four open-ended questions to assess reasons for obtaining a CI, satisfaction with CI and suggestions for professionals.
STUDY SAMPLE: Surveys were sent to 156 parents of CI recipients; 81 surveys returned; response rate 52%.
RESULTS: According to parent report, 95% of K-12 children and 100% of preschool children used spoken language as their primary mode of communication; majority of K-12 children performed same as or better than peers across academic subjects; 99% of respondents were pleased with their decision to obtain a CI. The most important reasons reported for choosing CIs were for their child to use the same language as their families and to effectively communicate in hearing society. Satisfaction with CI was better in quiet than in noise. Respondents stressed the importance of audiologists having excellent skills in CI management and programming.
CONCLUSIONS: Respondents were positive about the benefits of obtaining CI for their child.

PMID: 27780377 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Sweep frequency impedance measures in young infants: developmental characteristics from birth to 6 months.

Related Articles

Sweep frequency impedance measures in young infants: developmental characteristics from birth to 6 months.

Int J Audiol. 2016 Oct 26;:1-10

Authors: Aithal V, Kei J, Driscoll C, Murakoshi M, Wada H

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: International Journal of Audiology To study the developmental characteristics of sweep frequency impedance (SFI) measures in healthy infants from birth to 6 months.
DESIGN: All infants were assessed using high-frequency tympanometry (HFT), distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) and SFI tests. SFI measures consisted of measurement of resonance frequency (RF) and mobility (ΔSPL) of the outer and middle ear. A mixed model analysis of variance was applied to the SFI data to examine the effect of age on RF and ΔSPL.
STUDY SAMPLE: Study included 117 ears from 83 infants of different age groups from birth to 6 months.
RESULTS: The mean RF of the outer ear increased from 279 Hz at birth to 545 Hz at 4 months, whereas mean ΔSPL of the outer ear decreased from 7.9 dB at birth to 3.7 dB at 4 months of age. In contrast, the mean RF and ΔSPL of the middle ear did not change significantly with age up to 6 months.
CONCLUSIONS: Developmental characteristics should be considered when evaluating the function of the outer and middle ear of young infants (≤6 months) using the SFI. The preliminary normative SFI data established in this study may be used to assist with the evaluation.

PMID: 27780372 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Otoscopic examinations reveal high prevalence of outer and middle ear pathologies in paediatrics in Limpopo, South Africa.

Otoscopic examinations reveal high prevalence of outer and middle ear pathologies in paediatrics in Limpopo, South Africa.

Int J Audiol. 2016 Oct 26;:1-4

Authors: Phanguphangu MC

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of outer and middle ear pathologies in paediatrics in Limpopo, South Africa.
DESIGN: Cross-sectional retrospective review of otoscopy results obtained during a school health screening campaign conducted between March and June 2015. Descriptive statistics through percentages and frequency tables were used to analyse the data. Logistic regression was used to determine associations between age, gender and pathologies observed.
STUDY SAMPLE: Medical folders of 1089 pupils.
RESULTS: Forty-nine percent had normal otoscopy results. A significant 36% (n = 392) had impacted cerumen. Furthermore, 45% of those with impacted cerumen were bilaterally impacted. Additionally, 4% presented with foreign bodies and a further 8% had otitis externa and otitis media. The remaining 3% had tympanic membrane perforations. The odds of developing outer and middle ear pathologies were higher in pupils below 6 years of age (p = 0.046).
CONCLUSION: This study highlights a high prevalence of outer and middle ear pathologies in paediatrics in Limpopo and therefore recommends comprehensive baseline and periodic screenings; to identify children with outer and middle ear pathologies and need further management, and consequently prevent the complications of these pathologies. Additionally, this report highlights a rising need for large-scale research to provide comprehensive analysis of these pathologies.

PMID: 27783901 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Parent perceptions of their child's communication and academic experiences with cochlear implants.

Related Articles

Parent perceptions of their child's communication and academic experiences with cochlear implants.

Int J Audiol. 2016 Oct 26;:1-10

Authors: Nelson LH, Herde L, Munoz K, White KR, Page MD

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To explore parent perceptions of communication and academic experiences of cochlear implant (CI) recipients under the age of 18.
DESIGN: Cross-sectional survey design. Two surveys (K-12, birth-5) queried parent perceptions of the impact of CI on communication, listening in various environments and academic achievement. Surveys contained 16-23 multiple choice and/or Likert ratings, plus four open-ended questions to assess reasons for obtaining a CI, satisfaction with CI and suggestions for professionals.
STUDY SAMPLE: Surveys were sent to 156 parents of CI recipients; 81 surveys returned; response rate 52%.
RESULTS: According to parent report, 95% of K-12 children and 100% of preschool children used spoken language as their primary mode of communication; majority of K-12 children performed same as or better than peers across academic subjects; 99% of respondents were pleased with their decision to obtain a CI. The most important reasons reported for choosing CIs were for their child to use the same language as their families and to effectively communicate in hearing society. Satisfaction with CI was better in quiet than in noise. Respondents stressed the importance of audiologists having excellent skills in CI management and programming.
CONCLUSIONS: Respondents were positive about the benefits of obtaining CI for their child.

PMID: 27780377 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Sweep frequency impedance measures in young infants: developmental characteristics from birth to 6 months.

Related Articles

Sweep frequency impedance measures in young infants: developmental characteristics from birth to 6 months.

Int J Audiol. 2016 Oct 26;:1-10

Authors: Aithal V, Kei J, Driscoll C, Murakoshi M, Wada H

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: International Journal of Audiology To study the developmental characteristics of sweep frequency impedance (SFI) measures in healthy infants from birth to 6 months.
DESIGN: All infants were assessed using high-frequency tympanometry (HFT), distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) and SFI tests. SFI measures consisted of measurement of resonance frequency (RF) and mobility (ΔSPL) of the outer and middle ear. A mixed model analysis of variance was applied to the SFI data to examine the effect of age on RF and ΔSPL.
STUDY SAMPLE: Study included 117 ears from 83 infants of different age groups from birth to 6 months.
RESULTS: The mean RF of the outer ear increased from 279 Hz at birth to 545 Hz at 4 months, whereas mean ΔSPL of the outer ear decreased from 7.9 dB at birth to 3.7 dB at 4 months of age. In contrast, the mean RF and ΔSPL of the middle ear did not change significantly with age up to 6 months.
CONCLUSIONS: Developmental characteristics should be considered when evaluating the function of the outer and middle ear of young infants (≤6 months) using the SFI. The preliminary normative SFI data established in this study may be used to assist with the evaluation.

PMID: 27780372 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Otoscopic examinations reveal high prevalence of outer and middle ear pathologies in paediatrics in Limpopo, South Africa

.


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Otoscopic examinations reveal high prevalence of outer and middle ear pathologies in paediatrics in Limpopo, South Africa

.


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Otoscopic examinations reveal high prevalence of outer and middle ear pathologies in paediatrics in Limpopo, South Africa

.


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Otoscopic examinations reveal high prevalence of outer and middle ear pathologies in paediatrics in Limpopo, South Africa.

Otoscopic examinations reveal high prevalence of outer and middle ear pathologies in paediatrics in Limpopo, South Africa.

Int J Audiol. 2016 Oct 26;:1-4

Authors: Phanguphangu MC

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of outer and middle ear pathologies in paediatrics in Limpopo, South Africa.
DESIGN: Cross-sectional retrospective review of otoscopy results obtained during a school health screening campaign conducted between March and June 2015. Descriptive statistics through percentages and frequency tables were used to analyse the data. Logistic regression was used to determine associations between age, gender and pathologies observed.
STUDY SAMPLE: Medical folders of 1089 pupils.
RESULTS: Forty-nine percent had normal otoscopy results. A significant 36% (n = 392) had impacted cerumen. Furthermore, 45% of those with impacted cerumen were bilaterally impacted. Additionally, 4% presented with foreign bodies and a further 8% had otitis externa and otitis media. The remaining 3% had tympanic membrane perforations. The odds of developing outer and middle ear pathologies were higher in pupils below 6 years of age (p = 0.046).
CONCLUSION: This study highlights a high prevalence of outer and middle ear pathologies in paediatrics in Limpopo and therefore recommends comprehensive baseline and periodic screenings; to identify children with outer and middle ear pathologies and need further management, and consequently prevent the complications of these pathologies. Additionally, this report highlights a rising need for large-scale research to provide comprehensive analysis of these pathologies.

PMID: 27783901 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Parent perceptions of their child's communication and academic experiences with cochlear implants.

Related Articles

Parent perceptions of their child's communication and academic experiences with cochlear implants.

Int J Audiol. 2016 Oct 26;:1-10

Authors: Nelson LH, Herde L, Munoz K, White KR, Page MD

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To explore parent perceptions of communication and academic experiences of cochlear implant (CI) recipients under the age of 18.
DESIGN: Cross-sectional survey design. Two surveys (K-12, birth-5) queried parent perceptions of the impact of CI on communication, listening in various environments and academic achievement. Surveys contained 16-23 multiple choice and/or Likert ratings, plus four open-ended questions to assess reasons for obtaining a CI, satisfaction with CI and suggestions for professionals.
STUDY SAMPLE: Surveys were sent to 156 parents of CI recipients; 81 surveys returned; response rate 52%.
RESULTS: According to parent report, 95% of K-12 children and 100% of preschool children used spoken language as their primary mode of communication; majority of K-12 children performed same as or better than peers across academic subjects; 99% of respondents were pleased with their decision to obtain a CI. The most important reasons reported for choosing CIs were for their child to use the same language as their families and to effectively communicate in hearing society. Satisfaction with CI was better in quiet than in noise. Respondents stressed the importance of audiologists having excellent skills in CI management and programming.
CONCLUSIONS: Respondents were positive about the benefits of obtaining CI for their child.

PMID: 27780377 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Sweep frequency impedance measures in young infants: developmental characteristics from birth to 6 months.

Related Articles

Sweep frequency impedance measures in young infants: developmental characteristics from birth to 6 months.

Int J Audiol. 2016 Oct 26;:1-10

Authors: Aithal V, Kei J, Driscoll C, Murakoshi M, Wada H

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: International Journal of Audiology To study the developmental characteristics of sweep frequency impedance (SFI) measures in healthy infants from birth to 6 months.
DESIGN: All infants were assessed using high-frequency tympanometry (HFT), distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) and SFI tests. SFI measures consisted of measurement of resonance frequency (RF) and mobility (ΔSPL) of the outer and middle ear. A mixed model analysis of variance was applied to the SFI data to examine the effect of age on RF and ΔSPL.
STUDY SAMPLE: Study included 117 ears from 83 infants of different age groups from birth to 6 months.
RESULTS: The mean RF of the outer ear increased from 279 Hz at birth to 545 Hz at 4 months, whereas mean ΔSPL of the outer ear decreased from 7.9 dB at birth to 3.7 dB at 4 months of age. In contrast, the mean RF and ΔSPL of the middle ear did not change significantly with age up to 6 months.
CONCLUSIONS: Developmental characteristics should be considered when evaluating the function of the outer and middle ear of young infants (≤6 months) using the SFI. The preliminary normative SFI data established in this study may be used to assist with the evaluation.

PMID: 27780372 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Otoscopic examinations reveal high prevalence of outer and middle ear pathologies in paediatrics in Limpopo, South Africa.

Otoscopic examinations reveal high prevalence of outer and middle ear pathologies in paediatrics in Limpopo, South Africa.

Int J Audiol. 2016 Oct 26;:1-4

Authors: Phanguphangu MC

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of outer and middle ear pathologies in paediatrics in Limpopo, South Africa.
DESIGN: Cross-sectional retrospective review of otoscopy results obtained during a school health screening campaign conducted between March and June 2015. Descriptive statistics through percentages and frequency tables were used to analyse the data. Logistic regression was used to determine associations between age, gender and pathologies observed.
STUDY SAMPLE: Medical folders of 1089 pupils.
RESULTS: Forty-nine percent had normal otoscopy results. A significant 36% (n = 392) had impacted cerumen. Furthermore, 45% of those with impacted cerumen were bilaterally impacted. Additionally, 4% presented with foreign bodies and a further 8% had otitis externa and otitis media. The remaining 3% had tympanic membrane perforations. The odds of developing outer and middle ear pathologies were higher in pupils below 6 years of age (p = 0.046).
CONCLUSION: This study highlights a high prevalence of outer and middle ear pathologies in paediatrics in Limpopo and therefore recommends comprehensive baseline and periodic screenings; to identify children with outer and middle ear pathologies and need further management, and consequently prevent the complications of these pathologies. Additionally, this report highlights a rising need for large-scale research to provide comprehensive analysis of these pathologies.

PMID: 27783901 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Parent perceptions of their child's communication and academic experiences with cochlear implants.

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Parent perceptions of their child's communication and academic experiences with cochlear implants.

Int J Audiol. 2016 Oct 26;:1-10

Authors: Nelson LH, Herde L, Munoz K, White KR, Page MD

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To explore parent perceptions of communication and academic experiences of cochlear implant (CI) recipients under the age of 18.
DESIGN: Cross-sectional survey design. Two surveys (K-12, birth-5) queried parent perceptions of the impact of CI on communication, listening in various environments and academic achievement. Surveys contained 16-23 multiple choice and/or Likert ratings, plus four open-ended questions to assess reasons for obtaining a CI, satisfaction with CI and suggestions for professionals.
STUDY SAMPLE: Surveys were sent to 156 parents of CI recipients; 81 surveys returned; response rate 52%.
RESULTS: According to parent report, 95% of K-12 children and 100% of preschool children used spoken language as their primary mode of communication; majority of K-12 children performed same as or better than peers across academic subjects; 99% of respondents were pleased with their decision to obtain a CI. The most important reasons reported for choosing CIs were for their child to use the same language as their families and to effectively communicate in hearing society. Satisfaction with CI was better in quiet than in noise. Respondents stressed the importance of audiologists having excellent skills in CI management and programming.
CONCLUSIONS: Respondents were positive about the benefits of obtaining CI for their child.

PMID: 27780377 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Sweep frequency impedance measures in young infants: developmental characteristics from birth to 6 months.

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Sweep frequency impedance measures in young infants: developmental characteristics from birth to 6 months.

Int J Audiol. 2016 Oct 26;:1-10

Authors: Aithal V, Kei J, Driscoll C, Murakoshi M, Wada H

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: International Journal of Audiology To study the developmental characteristics of sweep frequency impedance (SFI) measures in healthy infants from birth to 6 months.
DESIGN: All infants were assessed using high-frequency tympanometry (HFT), distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) and SFI tests. SFI measures consisted of measurement of resonance frequency (RF) and mobility (ΔSPL) of the outer and middle ear. A mixed model analysis of variance was applied to the SFI data to examine the effect of age on RF and ΔSPL.
STUDY SAMPLE: Study included 117 ears from 83 infants of different age groups from birth to 6 months.
RESULTS: The mean RF of the outer ear increased from 279 Hz at birth to 545 Hz at 4 months, whereas mean ΔSPL of the outer ear decreased from 7.9 dB at birth to 3.7 dB at 4 months of age. In contrast, the mean RF and ΔSPL of the middle ear did not change significantly with age up to 6 months.
CONCLUSIONS: Developmental characteristics should be considered when evaluating the function of the outer and middle ear of young infants (≤6 months) using the SFI. The preliminary normative SFI data established in this study may be used to assist with the evaluation.

PMID: 27780372 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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