Pressure and Flow Comparisons Across Vocal Pathologies

Publication date: Available online 29 June 2017
Source:Journal of Voice
Author(s): Linda Carroll, Ann Rooney, Thomas J. Ow, Melin Tan
ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to aid in the distinction among hyperadductive dysphonias by evaluating peak glottal pressure, release burst, and mid and final airflow values across repeated /pa/ syllable trains.MethodsSixty subjects were assessed for aerodynamic patterns during onset-offset for the /papapapapa/ task in modal voice. Subject groups included adductory spasmodic dysphonia (AdSD), benign vocal fold lesion, primary muscle tension dysphonia (MTD-1), secondary muscle tension dysphonia with an identifiable primary benign vocal fold lesion (MTD-2), vocal fold paresis or paralysis, and normal controls.ResultsIncreased peak pressure (PP) was found for AdSD and MTD-2 subjects compared with controls. Release burst and mid airflow were not significantly different among groups. Final airflow was significantly higher for AdSD compared with the other groups. Final airflow was significantly lower for MTD-1.ConclusionsSignificant differences in aerodynamics are seen in subjects with AdSD compared to MTD. AdSD was characterized by higher PP and higher final airflow. MTD-1 was characterized by lower final airflow, whereas MTD-2 was characterized by higher PP. Aerodynamic evaluation may aid in differential diagnosis for those patients in whom distinction among hyperadductive disorders is challenging.



from #Audiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2tqetvX
via IFTTT

Paraflocculus plays a role in salicylate-induced tinnitus

Publication date: Available online 29 June 2017
Source:Hearing Research
Author(s): Yali Du, Junxiu Liu, Qin Jiang, Qingchuan Duan, Lanqun Mao, Furong Ma
Tinnitus impairs quality of life of about 1–2% of the whole population. In most severe situation, tinnitus may cause social isolation, depression and suicide. Drug treatments for tinnitus are generally ineffective, and the mechanisms of tinnitus are still undetermined. Accumulating evidence suggests that tinnitus is related to changes of widespread brain networks. Recent studies propose that paraflocculus (PFL), which is indirectly connected to various cortical regions, may be a gating zone of tinnitus. So we examined the electrophysiological changes and neurotransmitter alterations of the PFL in a rat model of sodium salicylate (SS)-induced tinnitus. We found that spontaneous firing rate (SFR) of the putative excitatory interneurons of the PFL was significantly increased. The level of glutamic acid, which is the main excitatory neurotransmitter in the nervous system, was also dramatically increased in the PFL after SS treatment. These results confirmed the hyperactivity of PFL in the rats with SS-treatment, which might be due to the increased glutamic acid. Then we examined the SFR of the auditory cortex (AC), the center for auditory perception, before and after electrical stimulation of the PFL. 71.4% (105/147) of the recorded neurons showed a response to the stimulation of the PFL. The result demonstrated that stimulation of the PFL could modulate the activity of the AC. Our study suggests a role of PFL in SS-induced tinnitus and AC as a potential target of PFL in the process of tinnitus.



from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2tpHeZR
via IFTTT

The impact of hearing aids and age-related hearing loss on auditory plasticity across three months – An electrical neuroimaging study

Publication date: Available online 29 June 2017
Source:Hearing Research
Author(s): Nathalie Giroud, Ulrike Lemke, Philip Reich, Katarina Matthes, Martin Meyer
The present study investigates behavioral and electrophysiological auditory and cognitive-related plasticity in three groups of healthy older adults (60–77 years). Group 1 was moderately hearing-impaired, experienced hearing aid users, and fitted with new hearing aids using non-linear frequency compression (NLFC on); Group 2, also moderately hearing-impaired, used the same type of hearing aids but NLFC was switched off during the entire period of study duration (NLFC off); Group 3 represented individuals with age-appropriate hearing (NHO) as controls, who were not different in IQ, gender, or age from Group 1 and 2. At five measurement time points (M1-M5) across three months, a series of active oddball tasks were administered while EEG was recorded. The stimuli comprised syllables consisting of naturally high-pitched fricatives (/sh/, /s/, and /f/), which are hard to distinguish for individuals with presbycusis. By applying a data-driven microstate approach to obtain global field power (GFP) as a measure of processing effort, the modulations of perceptual (P50, N1, P2) and cognitive-related (N2b, P3b) auditory evoked potentials were calculated and subsequently related to behavioral changes (accuracy and reaction time) across time.All groups improved their performance across time, but NHO showed consistently higher accuracy and faster reaction times than the hearing-impaired groups, especially under difficult conditions. Electrophysiological results complemented this finding by demonstrating longer latencies in the P50 and the N1 peak in hearing aid users. Furthermore, the GFP of cognitive-related evoked potentials decreased from M1 to M2 in the NHO group, while a comparable decrease in the hearing-impaired group was only evident at M5. After only twelve weeks of hearing aid use of eight hours each day, we found a significantly lower GFP in the P3b of the group with NLFC on as compared to the group with NLFC off.These findings suggest higher processing effort, as evidenced by higher GFP, in hearing-impaired individuals when compared to those with normal hearing, although the hearing-impaired show a decrease of processing effort after repeated stimulus exposure. In addition, our findings indicate that the acclimatization to a new hearing aid algorithm may take several weeks.



from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2s6OtSn
via IFTTT

Paraflocculus plays a role in salicylate-induced tinnitus

Publication date: Available online 29 June 2017
Source:Hearing Research
Author(s): Yali Du, Junxiu Liu, Qin Jiang, Qingchuan Duan, Lanqun Mao, Furong Ma
Tinnitus impairs quality of life of about 1–2% of the whole population. In most severe situation, tinnitus may cause social isolation, depression and suicide. Drug treatments for tinnitus are generally ineffective, and the mechanisms of tinnitus are still undetermined. Accumulating evidence suggests that tinnitus is related to changes of widespread brain networks. Recent studies propose that paraflocculus (PFL), which is indirectly connected to various cortical regions, may be a gating zone of tinnitus. So we examined the electrophysiological changes and neurotransmitter alterations of the PFL in a rat model of sodium salicylate (SS)-induced tinnitus. We found that spontaneous firing rate (SFR) of the putative excitatory interneurons of the PFL was significantly increased. The level of glutamic acid, which is the main excitatory neurotransmitter in the nervous system, was also dramatically increased in the PFL after SS treatment. These results confirmed the hyperactivity of PFL in the rats with SS-treatment, which might be due to the increased glutamic acid. Then we examined the SFR of the auditory cortex (AC), the center for auditory perception, before and after electrical stimulation of the PFL. 71.4% (105/147) of the recorded neurons showed a response to the stimulation of the PFL. The result demonstrated that stimulation of the PFL could modulate the activity of the AC. Our study suggests a role of PFL in SS-induced tinnitus and AC as a potential target of PFL in the process of tinnitus.



from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2tpHeZR
via IFTTT

The impact of hearing aids and age-related hearing loss on auditory plasticity across three months – An electrical neuroimaging study

Publication date: Available online 29 June 2017
Source:Hearing Research
Author(s): Nathalie Giroud, Ulrike Lemke, Philip Reich, Katarina Matthes, Martin Meyer
The present study investigates behavioral and electrophysiological auditory and cognitive-related plasticity in three groups of healthy older adults (60–77 years). Group 1 was moderately hearing-impaired, experienced hearing aid users, and fitted with new hearing aids using non-linear frequency compression (NLFC on); Group 2, also moderately hearing-impaired, used the same type of hearing aids but NLFC was switched off during the entire period of study duration (NLFC off); Group 3 represented individuals with age-appropriate hearing (NHO) as controls, who were not different in IQ, gender, or age from Group 1 and 2. At five measurement time points (M1-M5) across three months, a series of active oddball tasks were administered while EEG was recorded. The stimuli comprised syllables consisting of naturally high-pitched fricatives (/sh/, /s/, and /f/), which are hard to distinguish for individuals with presbycusis. By applying a data-driven microstate approach to obtain global field power (GFP) as a measure of processing effort, the modulations of perceptual (P50, N1, P2) and cognitive-related (N2b, P3b) auditory evoked potentials were calculated and subsequently related to behavioral changes (accuracy and reaction time) across time.All groups improved their performance across time, but NHO showed consistently higher accuracy and faster reaction times than the hearing-impaired groups, especially under difficult conditions. Electrophysiological results complemented this finding by demonstrating longer latencies in the P50 and the N1 peak in hearing aid users. Furthermore, the GFP of cognitive-related evoked potentials decreased from M1 to M2 in the NHO group, while a comparable decrease in the hearing-impaired group was only evident at M5. After only twelve weeks of hearing aid use of eight hours each day, we found a significantly lower GFP in the P3b of the group with NLFC on as compared to the group with NLFC off.These findings suggest higher processing effort, as evidenced by higher GFP, in hearing-impaired individuals when compared to those with normal hearing, although the hearing-impaired show a decrease of processing effort after repeated stimulus exposure. In addition, our findings indicate that the acclimatization to a new hearing aid algorithm may take several weeks.



from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2s6OtSn
via IFTTT

Reconstructive endovascular treatment of vertebral artery dissecting aneurysms with the Low-profile Visualized Intraluminal Support (LVIS) device

by Chuan-Chuan Wang, Yi-Bin Fang, Ping Zhang, Xuan Zhu, Bo Hong, Yi Xu, Jian-Min Liu, Qing-Hai Huang

Introduction

The Low-profile Visualized Intraluminal Support (LVIS) device is a new generation of self-expanding braided stent recently introduced in China for stent assisted coiling of intracranial aneurysms. The aim of our study is to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of the LVIS device in reconstructive treatment of vertebral artery dissecting aneurysms (VADAs).

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the neurointerventional database of our institution from June 2014 to May 2016. Patients who underwent endovascular treatment of VADAs with LVIS stents were included in this study. Clinical presentation, aneurysmal characteristics, technical feasibility, procedural complications, and angiographic and clinical follow-up results were evaluated.

Results

38 patients with VADAs who underwent treatment with LVIS stent were identified, including 3 ruptured VADAs. All VADAs were successfully treated with reconstructive techniques including the stent-assisted coiling (n = 34) and stenting only (n = 4). Post-procedural complications developed in 3 patients (7.9%) including two small brainstem infarctions and one delayed thromboembolic event. Complications resulted in one case of minor permanent morbidity (2.6%). There was no procedure-related mortality. The follow-up angiogram was available in 30 patients at an average of 8.3 months (range, 2 to 30 months), which revealed complete occlusion in 23 patients (76.7%), residual neck in five patients (16.7%), and residual sac in two patients (6.7%). The follow-up of 25 aneurysms with incomplete immediate occlusion revealed 22 aneurysms (88%) with improvement in the Raymond class. One aneurysm (3.3%) showed recanalization and required retreatment. Clinical followed-up at 5–28 months (mean 14.1 months) was achieved in 36 patients because two patients died of pancreatic cancer and basal ganglia hemorrhage, respectively. No new neurologic deterioration or aneurysm (re)bleeding was observed.

Conclusions

Our preliminary experience with reconstruction of VADAs with the LVIS device demonstrates that this treatment approach is feasible with good short-term angiographic and clinical outcomes. Long-term and larger cohort studies are necessary to determine long-term outcomes of this therapy.

from #Audiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2tu6luV
via IFTTT

Paraflocculus plays a role in salicylate-induced tinnitus

Publication date: Available online 29 June 2017
Source:Hearing Research
Author(s): Yali Du, Junxiu Liu, Qin Jiang, Qingchuan Duan, Lanqun Mao, Furong Ma
Tinnitus impairs quality of life of about 1–2% of the whole population. In most severe situation, tinnitus may cause social isolation, depression and suicide. Drug treatments for tinnitus are generally ineffective, and the mechanisms of tinnitus are still undetermined. Accumulating evidence suggests that tinnitus is related to changes of widespread brain networks. Recent studies propose that paraflocculus (PFL), which is indirectly connected to various cortical regions, may be a gating zone of tinnitus. So we examined the electrophysiological changes and neurotransmitter alterations of the PFL in a rat model of sodium salicylate (SS)-induced tinnitus. We found that spontaneous firing rate (SFR) of the putative excitatory interneurons of the PFL was significantly increased. The level of glutamic acid, which is the main excitatory neurotransmitter in the nervous system, was also dramatically increased in the PFL after SS treatment. These results confirmed the hyperactivity of PFL in the rats with SS-treatment, which might be due to the increased glutamic acid. Then we examined the SFR of the auditory cortex (AC), the center for auditory perception, before and after electrical stimulation of the PFL. 71.4% (105/147) of the recorded neurons showed a response to the stimulation of the PFL. The result demonstrated that stimulation of the PFL could modulate the activity of the AC. Our study suggests a role of PFL in SS-induced tinnitus and AC as a potential target of PFL in the process of tinnitus.



from #Audiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2tpHeZR
via IFTTT

The impact of hearing aids and age-related hearing loss on auditory plasticity across three months – An electrical neuroimaging study

Publication date: Available online 29 June 2017
Source:Hearing Research
Author(s): Nathalie Giroud, Ulrike Lemke, Philip Reich, Katarina Matthes, Martin Meyer
The present study investigates behavioral and electrophysiological auditory and cognitive-related plasticity in three groups of healthy older adults (60–77 years). Group 1 was moderately hearing-impaired, experienced hearing aid users, and fitted with new hearing aids using non-linear frequency compression (NLFC on); Group 2, also moderately hearing-impaired, used the same type of hearing aids but NLFC was switched off during the entire period of study duration (NLFC off); Group 3 represented individuals with age-appropriate hearing (NHO) as controls, who were not different in IQ, gender, or age from Group 1 and 2. At five measurement time points (M1-M5) across three months, a series of active oddball tasks were administered while EEG was recorded. The stimuli comprised syllables consisting of naturally high-pitched fricatives (/sh/, /s/, and /f/), which are hard to distinguish for individuals with presbycusis. By applying a data-driven microstate approach to obtain global field power (GFP) as a measure of processing effort, the modulations of perceptual (P50, N1, P2) and cognitive-related (N2b, P3b) auditory evoked potentials were calculated and subsequently related to behavioral changes (accuracy and reaction time) across time.All groups improved their performance across time, but NHO showed consistently higher accuracy and faster reaction times than the hearing-impaired groups, especially under difficult conditions. Electrophysiological results complemented this finding by demonstrating longer latencies in the P50 and the N1 peak in hearing aid users. Furthermore, the GFP of cognitive-related evoked potentials decreased from M1 to M2 in the NHO group, while a comparable decrease in the hearing-impaired group was only evident at M5. After only twelve weeks of hearing aid use of eight hours each day, we found a significantly lower GFP in the P3b of the group with NLFC on as compared to the group with NLFC off.These findings suggest higher processing effort, as evidenced by higher GFP, in hearing-impaired individuals when compared to those with normal hearing, although the hearing-impaired show a decrease of processing effort after repeated stimulus exposure. In addition, our findings indicate that the acclimatization to a new hearing aid algorithm may take several weeks.



from #Audiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2s6OtSn
via IFTTT

Paraflocculus plays a role in salicylate-induced tinnitus

Publication date: Available online 29 June 2017
Source:Hearing Research
Author(s): Yali Du, Junxiu Liu, Qin Jiang, Qingchuan Duan, Lanqun Mao, Furong Ma
Tinnitus impairs quality of life of about 1–2% of the whole population. In most severe situation, tinnitus may cause social isolation, depression and suicide. Drug treatments for tinnitus are generally ineffective, and the mechanisms of tinnitus are still undetermined. Accumulating evidence suggests that tinnitus is related to changes of widespread brain networks. Recent studies propose that paraflocculus (PFL), which is indirectly connected to various cortical regions, may be a gating zone of tinnitus. So we examined the electrophysiological changes and neurotransmitter alterations of the PFL in a rat model of sodium salicylate (SS)-induced tinnitus. We found that spontaneous firing rate (SFR) of the putative excitatory interneurons of the PFL was significantly increased. The level of glutamic acid, which is the main excitatory neurotransmitter in the nervous system, was also dramatically increased in the PFL after SS treatment. These results confirmed the hyperactivity of PFL in the rats with SS-treatment, which might be due to the increased glutamic acid. Then we examined the SFR of the auditory cortex (AC), the center for auditory perception, before and after electrical stimulation of the PFL. 71.4% (105/147) of the recorded neurons showed a response to the stimulation of the PFL. The result demonstrated that stimulation of the PFL could modulate the activity of the AC. Our study suggests a role of PFL in SS-induced tinnitus and AC as a potential target of PFL in the process of tinnitus.



from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2tpHeZR
via IFTTT

The impact of hearing aids and age-related hearing loss on auditory plasticity across three months – An electrical neuroimaging study

Publication date: Available online 29 June 2017
Source:Hearing Research
Author(s): Nathalie Giroud, Ulrike Lemke, Philip Reich, Katarina Matthes, Martin Meyer
The present study investigates behavioral and electrophysiological auditory and cognitive-related plasticity in three groups of healthy older adults (60–77 years). Group 1 was moderately hearing-impaired, experienced hearing aid users, and fitted with new hearing aids using non-linear frequency compression (NLFC on); Group 2, also moderately hearing-impaired, used the same type of hearing aids but NLFC was switched off during the entire period of study duration (NLFC off); Group 3 represented individuals with age-appropriate hearing (NHO) as controls, who were not different in IQ, gender, or age from Group 1 and 2. At five measurement time points (M1-M5) across three months, a series of active oddball tasks were administered while EEG was recorded. The stimuli comprised syllables consisting of naturally high-pitched fricatives (/sh/, /s/, and /f/), which are hard to distinguish for individuals with presbycusis. By applying a data-driven microstate approach to obtain global field power (GFP) as a measure of processing effort, the modulations of perceptual (P50, N1, P2) and cognitive-related (N2b, P3b) auditory evoked potentials were calculated and subsequently related to behavioral changes (accuracy and reaction time) across time.All groups improved their performance across time, but NHO showed consistently higher accuracy and faster reaction times than the hearing-impaired groups, especially under difficult conditions. Electrophysiological results complemented this finding by demonstrating longer latencies in the P50 and the N1 peak in hearing aid users. Furthermore, the GFP of cognitive-related evoked potentials decreased from M1 to M2 in the NHO group, while a comparable decrease in the hearing-impaired group was only evident at M5. After only twelve weeks of hearing aid use of eight hours each day, we found a significantly lower GFP in the P3b of the group with NLFC on as compared to the group with NLFC off.These findings suggest higher processing effort, as evidenced by higher GFP, in hearing-impaired individuals when compared to those with normal hearing, although the hearing-impaired show a decrease of processing effort after repeated stimulus exposure. In addition, our findings indicate that the acclimatization to a new hearing aid algorithm may take several weeks.



from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2s6OtSn
via IFTTT

Paraflocculus plays a role in salicylate-induced tinnitus

Publication date: Available online 29 June 2017
Source:Hearing Research
Author(s): Yali Du, Junxiu Liu, Qin Jiang, Qingchuan Duan, Lanqun Mao, Furong Ma
Tinnitus impairs quality of life of about 1–2% of the whole population. In most severe situation, tinnitus may cause social isolation, depression and suicide. Drug treatments for tinnitus are generally ineffective, and the mechanisms of tinnitus are still undetermined. Accumulating evidence suggests that tinnitus is related to changes of widespread brain networks. Recent studies propose that paraflocculus (PFL), which is indirectly connected to various cortical regions, may be a gating zone of tinnitus. So we examined the electrophysiological changes and neurotransmitter alterations of the PFL in a rat model of sodium salicylate (SS)-induced tinnitus. We found that spontaneous firing rate (SFR) of the putative excitatory interneurons of the PFL was significantly increased. The level of glutamic acid, which is the main excitatory neurotransmitter in the nervous system, was also dramatically increased in the PFL after SS treatment. These results confirmed the hyperactivity of PFL in the rats with SS-treatment, which might be due to the increased glutamic acid. Then we examined the SFR of the auditory cortex (AC), the center for auditory perception, before and after electrical stimulation of the PFL. 71.4% (105/147) of the recorded neurons showed a response to the stimulation of the PFL. The result demonstrated that stimulation of the PFL could modulate the activity of the AC. Our study suggests a role of PFL in SS-induced tinnitus and AC as a potential target of PFL in the process of tinnitus.



from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2tpHeZR
via IFTTT

The impact of hearing aids and age-related hearing loss on auditory plasticity across three months – An electrical neuroimaging study

Publication date: Available online 29 June 2017
Source:Hearing Research
Author(s): Nathalie Giroud, Ulrike Lemke, Philip Reich, Katarina Matthes, Martin Meyer
The present study investigates behavioral and electrophysiological auditory and cognitive-related plasticity in three groups of healthy older adults (60–77 years). Group 1 was moderately hearing-impaired, experienced hearing aid users, and fitted with new hearing aids using non-linear frequency compression (NLFC on); Group 2, also moderately hearing-impaired, used the same type of hearing aids but NLFC was switched off during the entire period of study duration (NLFC off); Group 3 represented individuals with age-appropriate hearing (NHO) as controls, who were not different in IQ, gender, or age from Group 1 and 2. At five measurement time points (M1-M5) across three months, a series of active oddball tasks were administered while EEG was recorded. The stimuli comprised syllables consisting of naturally high-pitched fricatives (/sh/, /s/, and /f/), which are hard to distinguish for individuals with presbycusis. By applying a data-driven microstate approach to obtain global field power (GFP) as a measure of processing effort, the modulations of perceptual (P50, N1, P2) and cognitive-related (N2b, P3b) auditory evoked potentials were calculated and subsequently related to behavioral changes (accuracy and reaction time) across time.All groups improved their performance across time, but NHO showed consistently higher accuracy and faster reaction times than the hearing-impaired groups, especially under difficult conditions. Electrophysiological results complemented this finding by demonstrating longer latencies in the P50 and the N1 peak in hearing aid users. Furthermore, the GFP of cognitive-related evoked potentials decreased from M1 to M2 in the NHO group, while a comparable decrease in the hearing-impaired group was only evident at M5. After only twelve weeks of hearing aid use of eight hours each day, we found a significantly lower GFP in the P3b of the group with NLFC on as compared to the group with NLFC off.These findings suggest higher processing effort, as evidenced by higher GFP, in hearing-impaired individuals when compared to those with normal hearing, although the hearing-impaired show a decrease of processing effort after repeated stimulus exposure. In addition, our findings indicate that the acclimatization to a new hearing aid algorithm may take several weeks.



from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2s6OtSn
via IFTTT

25 (OH) D3 levels, incidence and recurrence of different clinical forms of BPPV.

Related Articles

25 (OH) D3 levels, incidence and recurrence of different clinical forms of BPPV.

Braz J Otorhinolaryngol. 2017 Jun 11;:

Authors: Maslovara S, Butkovic Soldo S, Sestak A, Milinkovic K, Rogic-Namacinski J, Soldo A

Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is the most common cause of dizziness in the general population. It is a condition with potential impact of reduced levels of vitamin D on its recurrent attacks.
OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to measure the serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25-OH D3) in patients with BPPV and determine whether there is a difference in the serum levels of vitamin D3 between patients with and without recurrence, as well as between the different clinical forms of BPPV.
METHODS: The study included 40 patients who came to the regular medical examination, diagnosed with PC-BPPV based on the positive Dix-Hallpike's test. All patients underwent Epley manoeuvre after the diagnosis. Patients were classified according to current guidelines for levels of vitamin D3 in the serum in three groups: the deficiency, insufficiency and adequate level.
RESULTS: The average serum level of 25-OH D3 among respondents was 20.78ng/mL, indicating a lack or insufficiency of the aforementioned 25-OH D3. According to the levels of 25-OH D3, most patients suffer from deficiency (47.5%). 7 (17.5%) respondents had adequate blood level of 25-OH D3, and 14 (35%) respondents suffer from insufficiency. A significant difference was not found in the serum level of 25-OH D3 between patients with and without BPPV recurrence. There was a significant difference in the serum levels of 25-OH D3 in comparison to the clinical form of the disease. Lower 25-OH D3 values were found in patients with canalithiasis compared to those with cupulolithiasis.
CONCLUSIONS: There were no significant differences in the vitamin D3 serum level in patients with and without recurrence. The study showed a low level of serum vitamin D3 in most patients, indicating the need for supplemental therapy.

PMID: 28655524 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

from #Audiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2s4NrGF
via IFTTT

Tinnitus Masker

What does a Tinnitus Masker do?
A masker of tinnitus is a device or white noise machine that generates sounds in order to mask or cover up the ringing in your years. The audio array released by the device could be white noise, patterned sounds or specially tailored sounds that are customized based on the frequency of your tinnitus. They work by making the ambient noise of your environment louder than the noise that is coming from within your ears. The sounds made by the devices are designed to be comforting and less intrusive than the tinnitus noise.

Types of Sound that a Tinnitus Masker Can Generate
A tinnitus masking device can generate just about any type of sound. Each person has a different minimum masking level. The device can make cyclical sounds such as the sound of the surf or a vacuum cleaner. They can also make regular sounds such as the sound of the wind or a waterfall. Some devices are made to generate brown, pink or white noise. If you need to wear the masker throughout the day and night, it needs to be set at a volume of 70 dB or lower to avoid hearing loss.

Who May Benefit from a Tinnitus Masker?
Anyone who suffers from tinnitus could benefit from the use of a masker. These devices are especially helpful for people who have a sleep partner and cannot play a CD or MP3 of sounds. The maskers fit on or within the ear. They can also be paired with a sound pillow. The pillows have speakers that work in conjunction with the masker. This creates a sort of surround-sound effect that fully masks the tinnitus so the person can fall asleep without being disturbed by the sounds of ringing in ears.

Choosing a Tinnitus Masker for Your Situation
Each person’s experience with tinnitus is different. The sound of your tinnitus could be different from another person’s. Your tinnitus frequency could also change over time. When selecting a tinnitus masker, consider the units produced by AudioNotch. The tailor-made notched sound therapy allows you to choose a white noise that is comforting to you and masks the sound of your tinnitus frequency. Some of their offerings include the sounds of autumn wind, heavy rain or a kitchen sink. Their sound files are about ten minutes long and can be repeated for as long as necessary.

from #Audiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2t4DjPr
via IFTTT

Spatial and temporal postural analysis in children born prematurely

Publication date: September 2017
Source:Gait & Posture, Volume 57
Author(s): Maria Pia Bucci, Margherita Tringali, Clémence Trousson, Isabelle Husson, Olivier Baud, Valerie Biran
The aim of this study was to compare postural stability in a group of preterm-born children aged 4–6 years old and in a group of age-matched full-term control children by exploring both spatial and temporal analysis of the Center of Pressure (CoP).Twenty-nine children born prematurely (mean age: 5.38±0.17) and twenty-nine age-matched full-term control children participated in this study. Postural control was tested on both a stable and an unstable platform (from Framiral^®) in three different visual conditions: eyes open fixating a target, eyes closed, and with vision perturbed by optokinetic stimulation.We observed a significant increase of both surface area and mean velocity of the CoP in pre-term children compared to full-term control children, particularly in an unstable postural condition. The spectral power indices increased significantly in pre-term children with respect to full-term control children, while the cancelling time was not different between the two groups of children tested.We suggested that poor postural stability observed in preterm children could be due to immaturity of the cortical processes (the occipital parietal prefrontal cortex) involved in motor control. Preterm children could have an inappropriate compensation of sensory inputs when they are tested in difficult postural and/or visual conditions.



from #Audiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2sUy6vb
via IFTTT

Somatosensory impairment and its association with balance limitation in people with multiple sclerosis

Publication date: September 2017
Source:Gait & Posture, Volume 57
Author(s): Akram Jamali, Ebrahim Sadeghi-Demneh, Niloufar Fereshtenajad, Susan Hillier
BackgroundSomatosensory impairments are common in multiple sclerosis. However, little data are available to characterize the nature and frequency of these problems in people with multiple sclerosis.ObjectiveTo investigate the frequency of somatosensory impairments and identify any association with balance limitations in people with multiple sclerosis.MethodsThe design was a prospective cross-sectional study, involving 82 people with multiple sclerosis and 30 healthy controls. Tactile and proprioceptive sensory acuity were measured using the Rivermead Assessment of Somatosensory Performance. Vibration duration was assessed using a tuning fork. Duration for the Timed Up and Go Test and reaching distance of the Functional Reach Test were measured to assess balance limitations. The normative range of sensory modalities was defined using cut-off points in the healthy participants. The multivariate linear regression was used to identify the significant predictors of balance in people with multiple sclerosis.ResultsProprioceptive impairments (66.7%) were more common than tactile (60.8%) and vibration impairments (44.9%). Somatosensory impairments were more frequent in the lower limb (78.2%) than the upper limb (64.1%). All sensory modalities were significantly associated with the Timed Up and Go and Functional Reach tests (p<0.05). The Timed Up and Go test was independently predicted by the severity of the neurological lesion, Body Mass Index, ataxia, and tactile sensation (R2=0.58), whereas the Functional Reach test was predicted by the severity of the neurological lesion, lower limb strength, and vibration sense (R2=0.49).ConclusionsSomatosensory impairments are very common in people with multiple sclerosis. These impairments are independent predictors of balance limitation.



from #Audiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2tnWIgT
via IFTTT

Spatial and temporal postural analysis in children born prematurely

Publication date: September 2017
Source:Gait & Posture, Volume 57
Author(s): Maria Pia Bucci, Margherita Tringali, Clémence Trousson, Isabelle Husson, Olivier Baud, Valerie Biran
The aim of this study was to compare postural stability in a group of preterm-born children aged 4–6 years old and in a group of age-matched full-term control children by exploring both spatial and temporal analysis of the Center of Pressure (CoP).Twenty-nine children born prematurely (mean age: 5.38±0.17) and twenty-nine age-matched full-term control children participated in this study. Postural control was tested on both a stable and an unstable platform (from Framiral^®) in three different visual conditions: eyes open fixating a target, eyes closed, and with vision perturbed by optokinetic stimulation.We observed a significant increase of both surface area and mean velocity of the CoP in pre-term children compared to full-term control children, particularly in an unstable postural condition. The spectral power indices increased significantly in pre-term children with respect to full-term control children, while the cancelling time was not different between the two groups of children tested.We suggested that poor postural stability observed in preterm children could be due to immaturity of the cortical processes (the occipital parietal prefrontal cortex) involved in motor control. Preterm children could have an inappropriate compensation of sensory inputs when they are tested in difficult postural and/or visual conditions.



from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2sUy6vb
via IFTTT

Somatosensory impairment and its association with balance limitation in people with multiple sclerosis

Publication date: September 2017
Source:Gait & Posture, Volume 57
Author(s): Akram Jamali, Ebrahim Sadeghi-Demneh, Niloufar Fereshtenajad, Susan Hillier
BackgroundSomatosensory impairments are common in multiple sclerosis. However, little data are available to characterize the nature and frequency of these problems in people with multiple sclerosis.ObjectiveTo investigate the frequency of somatosensory impairments and identify any association with balance limitations in people with multiple sclerosis.MethodsThe design was a prospective cross-sectional study, involving 82 people with multiple sclerosis and 30 healthy controls. Tactile and proprioceptive sensory acuity were measured using the Rivermead Assessment of Somatosensory Performance. Vibration duration was assessed using a tuning fork. Duration for the Timed Up and Go Test and reaching distance of the Functional Reach Test were measured to assess balance limitations. The normative range of sensory modalities was defined using cut-off points in the healthy participants. The multivariate linear regression was used to identify the significant predictors of balance in people with multiple sclerosis.ResultsProprioceptive impairments (66.7%) were more common than tactile (60.8%) and vibration impairments (44.9%). Somatosensory impairments were more frequent in the lower limb (78.2%) than the upper limb (64.1%). All sensory modalities were significantly associated with the Timed Up and Go and Functional Reach tests (p<0.05). The Timed Up and Go test was independently predicted by the severity of the neurological lesion, Body Mass Index, ataxia, and tactile sensation (R2=0.58), whereas the Functional Reach test was predicted by the severity of the neurological lesion, lower limb strength, and vibration sense (R2=0.49).ConclusionsSomatosensory impairments are very common in people with multiple sclerosis. These impairments are independent predictors of balance limitation.



from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2tnWIgT
via IFTTT

Spatial and temporal postural analysis in children born prematurely

Publication date: September 2017
Source:Gait & Posture, Volume 57
Author(s): Maria Pia Bucci, Margherita Tringali, Clémence Trousson, Isabelle Husson, Olivier Baud, Valerie Biran
The aim of this study was to compare postural stability in a group of preterm-born children aged 4–6 years old and in a group of age-matched full-term control children by exploring both spatial and temporal analysis of the Center of Pressure (CoP).Twenty-nine children born prematurely (mean age: 5.38±0.17) and twenty-nine age-matched full-term control children participated in this study. Postural control was tested on both a stable and an unstable platform (from Framiral^®) in three different visual conditions: eyes open fixating a target, eyes closed, and with vision perturbed by optokinetic stimulation.We observed a significant increase of both surface area and mean velocity of the CoP in pre-term children compared to full-term control children, particularly in an unstable postural condition. The spectral power indices increased significantly in pre-term children with respect to full-term control children, while the cancelling time was not different between the two groups of children tested.We suggested that poor postural stability observed in preterm children could be due to immaturity of the cortical processes (the occipital parietal prefrontal cortex) involved in motor control. Preterm children could have an inappropriate compensation of sensory inputs when they are tested in difficult postural and/or visual conditions.



from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2sUy6vb
via IFTTT

Somatosensory impairment and its association with balance limitation in people with multiple sclerosis

Publication date: September 2017
Source:Gait & Posture, Volume 57
Author(s): Akram Jamali, Ebrahim Sadeghi-Demneh, Niloufar Fereshtenajad, Susan Hillier
BackgroundSomatosensory impairments are common in multiple sclerosis. However, little data are available to characterize the nature and frequency of these problems in people with multiple sclerosis.ObjectiveTo investigate the frequency of somatosensory impairments and identify any association with balance limitations in people with multiple sclerosis.MethodsThe design was a prospective cross-sectional study, involving 82 people with multiple sclerosis and 30 healthy controls. Tactile and proprioceptive sensory acuity were measured using the Rivermead Assessment of Somatosensory Performance. Vibration duration was assessed using a tuning fork. Duration for the Timed Up and Go Test and reaching distance of the Functional Reach Test were measured to assess balance limitations. The normative range of sensory modalities was defined using cut-off points in the healthy participants. The multivariate linear regression was used to identify the significant predictors of balance in people with multiple sclerosis.ResultsProprioceptive impairments (66.7%) were more common than tactile (60.8%) and vibration impairments (44.9%). Somatosensory impairments were more frequent in the lower limb (78.2%) than the upper limb (64.1%). All sensory modalities were significantly associated with the Timed Up and Go and Functional Reach tests (p<0.05). The Timed Up and Go test was independently predicted by the severity of the neurological lesion, Body Mass Index, ataxia, and tactile sensation (R2=0.58), whereas the Functional Reach test was predicted by the severity of the neurological lesion, lower limb strength, and vibration sense (R2=0.49).ConclusionsSomatosensory impairments are very common in people with multiple sclerosis. These impairments are independent predictors of balance limitation.



from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2tnWIgT
via IFTTT

A novel PAX1 null homozygous mutation in autosomal recessive otofaciocervical syndrome associated with severe combined immunodeficiency.

A novel PAX1 null homozygous mutation in autosomal recessive otofaciocervical syndrome associated with severe combined immunodeficiency.

Clin Genet. 2017 Jun 28;:

Authors: Paganini I, Sestini R, Capone GL, Putignano AL, Contini E, Giotti I, Gensini F, Marozza A, Barilaro A, Porfirio B, Papi L

Abstract
Otofaciocervical syndrome is a rare disorder characterized by facial anomalies, cup-shaped low-set ears, preauricular fistulas, hearing loss, branchial defects, skeletal anomalies, and mild intellectual disability. Autosomal dominant cases are caused by deletions or point mutations of EYA1. A single family with an autosomal recessive form of otofaciocervical syndrome and a homozygous missense mutation in PAX1 gene has been described. We report whole exome sequencing of 4 members of a consanguineous family in which two children, showing features of otofaciocervical syndrome, expired from severe combined immunodeficiency. To date, the co-occurrence of otofaciocervical syndrome and severe combined immunodeficiency has never been reported. We found a nonsense homozygous mutation in PAX1 gene in the two affected children. In mice, Pax1 is required for the formation of specific skeletal structures as well as for the development of a fully functional thymus. The mouse model strongly supports the hypothesis that PAX1 depletion in our patients caused thymus aplasia responsible for severe combined immunodeficiency. This report provides evidence that bi-allelic null PAX1 mutations may lead to a multi-system autosomal recessive disorders, where severe combined immunodeficiency might represent the main feature.

PMID: 28657137 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

from #Audiology via xlomafota13 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2spJ3RJ
via IFTTT

Electron cryo-microscopy structure of the mechanotransduction channel NOMPC.

Electron cryo-microscopy structure of the mechanotransduction channel NOMPC.

Nature. 2017 Jun 26;:

Authors: Jin P, Bulkley D, Guo Y, Zhang W, Guo Z, Huynh W, Wu S, Meltzer S, Cheng T, Jan LY, Jan YN, Cheng Y

Abstract
Mechanosensory transduction for senses such as proprioception, touch, balance, acceleration, hearing and pain relies on mechanotransduction channels, which convert mechanical stimuli into electrical signals in specialized sensory cells. How force gates mechanotransduction channels is a central question in the field, for which there are two major models. One is the membrane-tension model: force applied to the membrane generates a change in membrane tension that is sufficient to gate the channel, as in the bacterial MscL channel and certain eukaryotic potassium channels. The other is the tether model: force is transmitted via a tether to gate the channel. The transient receptor potential (TRP) channel NOMPC is important for mechanosensation-related behaviours such as locomotion, touch and sound sensation across different species including Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila and zebrafish. NOMPC is the founding member of the TRPN subfamily, and is thought to be gated by tethering of its ankyrin repeat domain to microtubules of the cytoskeleton. Thus, a goal of studying NOMPC is to reveal the underlying mechanism of force-induced gating, which could serve as a paradigm of the tether model. NOMPC fulfils all the criteria that apply to mechanotransduction channels and has 29 ankyrin repeats, the largest number among TRP channels. A key question is how the long ankyrin repeat domain is organized as a tether that can trigger channel gating. Here we present a de novo atomic structure of Drosophila NOMPC determined by single-particle electron cryo-microscopy. Structural analysis suggests that the ankyrin repeat domain of NOMPC resembles a helical spring, suggesting its role of linking mechanical displacement of the cytoskeleton to the opening of the channel. The NOMPC architecture underscores the basis of translating mechanical force into an electrical signal within a cell.

PMID: 28658211 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2tou2ns
via IFTTT

Diagnosis of Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence in the Presence of Concomitant Otosclerosis.

Diagnosis of Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence in the Presence of Concomitant Otosclerosis.

Otol Neurotol. 2017 Jun 27;:

Authors: Yong M, Zaia E, Westerberg B, Lea J

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To review three patients with concurrent otosclerosis and superior canal dehiscence identified before operative intervention and provide a practical diagnostic approach to this clinical scenario.
STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective patient series.
SETTING: Tertiary/quaternary referral center.
PATIENTS: Individuals with confirmed diagnoses of concurrent otosclerosis and superior semicircular canal dehiscence syndrome.
INTERVENTIONS: Detailed history and physical examinations were performed on these patients, as well as detailed audiovestibular testing and computed tomography imaging.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Establishing a clear diagnosis of concurrent otosclerosis and superior semicircular canal dehiscence syndrome using a thorough diagnostic approach.
RESULTS: Three patients presented with conductive hearing loss and normal tympanic membranes. When history and physical examination yielded suspicious third window symptoms/signs, more detailed audiovestibular testing and computed tomography scan imaging were performed. All three patients were ultimately identified to have concurrent otosclerosis and superior canal dehiscence. Conservative management was the option of choice for two of these patients (trial of a hearing aid) and surgical intervention was performed to treat the otosclerosis in the remaining patient.

PMID: 28657952 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2umcKo5
via IFTTT

Electron cryo-microscopy structure of the mechanotransduction channel NOMPC.

Electron cryo-microscopy structure of the mechanotransduction channel NOMPC.

Nature. 2017 Jun 26;:

Authors: Jin P, Bulkley D, Guo Y, Zhang W, Guo Z, Huynh W, Wu S, Meltzer S, Cheng T, Jan LY, Jan YN, Cheng Y

Abstract
Mechanosensory transduction for senses such as proprioception, touch, balance, acceleration, hearing and pain relies on mechanotransduction channels, which convert mechanical stimuli into electrical signals in specialized sensory cells. How force gates mechanotransduction channels is a central question in the field, for which there are two major models. One is the membrane-tension model: force applied to the membrane generates a change in membrane tension that is sufficient to gate the channel, as in the bacterial MscL channel and certain eukaryotic potassium channels. The other is the tether model: force is transmitted via a tether to gate the channel. The transient receptor potential (TRP) channel NOMPC is important for mechanosensation-related behaviours such as locomotion, touch and sound sensation across different species including Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila and zebrafish. NOMPC is the founding member of the TRPN subfamily, and is thought to be gated by tethering of its ankyrin repeat domain to microtubules of the cytoskeleton. Thus, a goal of studying NOMPC is to reveal the underlying mechanism of force-induced gating, which could serve as a paradigm of the tether model. NOMPC fulfils all the criteria that apply to mechanotransduction channels and has 29 ankyrin repeats, the largest number among TRP channels. A key question is how the long ankyrin repeat domain is organized as a tether that can trigger channel gating. Here we present a de novo atomic structure of Drosophila NOMPC determined by single-particle electron cryo-microscopy. Structural analysis suggests that the ankyrin repeat domain of NOMPC resembles a helical spring, suggesting its role of linking mechanical displacement of the cytoskeleton to the opening of the channel. The NOMPC architecture underscores the basis of translating mechanical force into an electrical signal within a cell.

PMID: 28658211 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2tou2ns
via IFTTT

Diagnosis of Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence in the Presence of Concomitant Otosclerosis.

Diagnosis of Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence in the Presence of Concomitant Otosclerosis.

Otol Neurotol. 2017 Jun 27;:

Authors: Yong M, Zaia E, Westerberg B, Lea J

Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To review three patients with concurrent otosclerosis and superior canal dehiscence identified before operative intervention and provide a practical diagnostic approach to this clinical scenario.
STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective patient series.
SETTING: Tertiary/quaternary referral center.
PATIENTS: Individuals with confirmed diagnoses of concurrent otosclerosis and superior semicircular canal dehiscence syndrome.
INTERVENTIONS: Detailed history and physical examinations were performed on these patients, as well as detailed audiovestibular testing and computed tomography imaging.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Establishing a clear diagnosis of concurrent otosclerosis and superior semicircular canal dehiscence syndrome using a thorough diagnostic approach.
RESULTS: Three patients presented with conductive hearing loss and normal tympanic membranes. When history and physical examination yielded suspicious third window symptoms/signs, more detailed audiovestibular testing and computed tomography scan imaging were performed. All three patients were ultimately identified to have concurrent otosclerosis and superior canal dehiscence. Conservative management was the option of choice for two of these patients (trial of a hearing aid) and surgical intervention was performed to treat the otosclerosis in the remaining patient.

PMID: 28657952 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2umcKo5
via IFTTT

Response to Comment on Ohlenforst et al.

No abstract available

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2sTEmDq
via IFTTT

Comment on Ohlenforst et al. (2016) Exploring the Relationship Between Working Memory, Compressor Speed, and Background Noise Characteristics. Ear Hear 37, 137-143.

No abstract available

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2sphqs9
via IFTTT