Audiology Research

1 pages, 156 KiB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Martini, A.; Cassina, M. Victor A. McKusick, the “Father of Medical Genetics”. Audiol. Res. 2021, 11, 636–638

by Alessandro Martini and Matteo Cassina

Audiol. Res. 2022, 12(1), 95; https://doi.org/10.3390/audiolres12010011 - 17 Feb 2022

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Abstract

In the original article [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetics of Hearing Loss)

6 pages, 886 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Objective Detection of the Speech Frequency Following Response (sFFR): A Comparison of Two Methods

by Fan-Yin Cheng and Spencer Smith

Audiol. Res. 2022, 12(1), 89-94; https://doi.org/10.3390/audiolres12010010 - 28 Jan 2022

Viewed by 2554

Abstract

Speech frequency following responses (sFFRs) are increasingly used in translational auditory research. Statistically-based automated sFFR detection could aid response identification and provide a basis for stopping rules when recording responses in clinical and/or research applications. In this brief report, sFFRs were measured from [...] Read more.

Speech frequency following responses (sFFRs) are increasingly used in translational auditory research. Statistically-based automated sFFR detection could aid response identification and provide a basis for stopping rules when recording responses in clinical and/or research applications. In this brief report, sFFRs were measured from 18 normal hearing adult listeners in quiet and speech-shaped noise. Two statistically-based automated response detection methods, the F-test and Hotelling’s T² (HT²) test, were compared based on detection accuracy and test time. Similar detection accuracy across statistical tests and conditions was observed, although the HT² test time was less variable. These findings suggest that automated sFFR detection is robust for responses recorded in quiet and speech-shaped noise using either the F-test or HT² test. Future studies evaluating test performance with different stimuli and maskers are warranted to determine if the interchangeability of test performance extends to these conditions. Full article

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2 pages, 136 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Audiology Research in 2021

by Audiology Research Editorial Office

Audiol. Res. 2022, 12(1), 87-88; https://doi.org/10.3390/audiolres12010009 - 27 Jan 2022

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Abstract

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...] Full article

8 pages, 258 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Reliability of Contralateral Suppression of Otoacoustic Emissions Is Greater in Women than in Men

by W. Wiktor Jedrzejczak, Edyta Pilka, Malgorzata Pastucha, Krzysztof Kochanek and Henryk Skarzynski

Audiol. Res. 2022, 12(1), 79-86; https://doi.org/10.3390/audiolres12010008 - 19 Jan 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2665

Abstract

The aim of this study was to compare the reliability of the medial olivocochlear reflex (MOCR) between men and women. The strength of the MOCR was measured in terms of the suppression of transiently evoked otoacoustic emissions (TEOAEs) by contralateral acoustic stimulation (CAS). [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to compare the reliability of the medial olivocochlear reflex (MOCR) between men and women. The strength of the MOCR was measured in terms of the suppression of transiently evoked otoacoustic emissions (TEOAEs) by contralateral acoustic stimulation (CAS). The difference between TEOAEs with and without CAS (white noise) was calculated as raw decibel TEOAE suppression as well as normalized TEOAE suppression expressed in percent. In each subject, sets of measurements were performed twice. Reliability was evaluated by calculating the intraclass correlation coefficient, the standard error of measurement, and the minimum detectable change (MDC). The study included 40 normally hearing subjects (20 men; 20 women). The estimates of MOCR for both genders were similar. Nevertheless, the reliability of the MOCR was poorer in men, with an MDC around twice that of women. This can be only partially attributed to slightly lower signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) in men, since we used strict procedures calling for high SNRs (around 20 dB on average). Furthermore, even when we compared subgroups with similar SNRs, there was still lower MOCR reliability in men. Full article

2 pages, 160 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Bone and Cartilage Conduction

by Tadashi Nishimura

Audiol. Res. 2022, 12(1), 77-78; https://doi.org/10.3390/audiolres12010007 - 18 Jan 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2065

Abstract

Auditory sensation is an important sensation for human beings [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bone and Cartilage Conduction)

11 pages, 556 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Validation of the Tinnitus Acceptance Questionnaire: Japanese Version

by So Takabatake, Mariko Takahashi, Kayoko Kabaya, Yoshimasa Sekiya, Kenichi Sekiya, Ikuma Harata, Masaki Kondo and Tatsuo Akechi

Audiol. Res. 2022, 12(1), 66-76; https://doi.org/10.3390/audiolres12010006 - 13 Jan 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2997

Abstract

This study aimed to develop and validate a Japanese version of the Tinnitus Acceptance Questionnaire (TAQ), an instrument that measures the process of intentional acceptance of adverse experiences associated with tinnitus. A total of 125 patients with chronic tinnitus from multiple institutions participated [...] Read more.

This study aimed to develop and validate a Japanese version of the Tinnitus Acceptance Questionnaire (TAQ), an instrument that measures the process of intentional acceptance of adverse experiences associated with tinnitus. A total of 125 patients with chronic tinnitus from multiple institutions participated in this study. Participants completed the Japanese versions of the TAQ, Tinnitus Handicap Inventory, Valuing Questionnaire, Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-II, and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. A second TAQ was administered 1–2 weeks later. Because the model fitted poorly in confirmatory factor analysis, exploratory factor analysis was conducted, which yielded a two-factor structure that was divided into forward and reversed item groups. Hypotheses regarding criterion and construct validity were clearly supported. A high Cronbach’s α coefficient value was obtained for the TAQ total score (0.88). The interclass correlation coefficient for test–retest reliability was within the acceptable range (0.95). The results of the exploratory factor analysis were considered to be due to artifacts caused by the characteristics of the Japanese language. The present study confirmed the validity and reliability of the Japanese version of the TAQ in measuring tinnitus-specific receptivity. Full article

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24 pages, 1844 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceReview

Usher Syndrome

by Alessandro Castiglione and Claes Möller

Audiol. Res. 2022, 12(1), 42-65; https://doi.org/10.3390/audiolres12010005 - 11 Jan 2022

Cited by 31 | Viewed by 11045

Abstract

Usher syndrome (USH) is the most common genetic condition responsible for combined loss of hearing and vision. Balance disorders and bilateral vestibular areflexia are also observed in some cases. The syndrome was first described by Albrecht von Graefe in 1858, but later named [...] Read more.

Usher syndrome (USH) is the most common genetic condition responsible for combined loss of hearing and vision. Balance disorders and bilateral vestibular areflexia are also observed in some cases. The syndrome was first described by Albrecht von Graefe in 1858, but later named by Charles Usher, who presented a large number of cases with hearing loss and retinopathy in 1914. USH has been grouped into three main clinical types: 1, 2, and 3, which are caused by mutations in different genes and are further divided into different subtypes. To date, nine causative genes have been identified and confirmed as responsible for the syndrome when mutated: MYO7A, USH1C, CDH23, PCDH15, and USH1G (SANS) for Usher type 1; USH2A, ADGRV1, and WHRN for Usher type 2; CLRN1 for Usher type 3. USH is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern. Digenic, bi-allelic, and polygenic forms have also been reported, in addition to dominant or nonsyndromic forms of genetic mutations. This narrative review reports the causative forms, diagnosis, prognosis, epidemiology, rehabilitation, research, and new treatments of USH. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetics of Hearing Loss)

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9 pages, 1373 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Cochlear Implant in Patients with Intralabyrinthine Schwannoma without Tumor Removal

by Andrea Laborai, Sara Ghiselli and Domenico Cuda

Audiol. Res. 2022, 12(1), 33-41; https://doi.org/10.3390/audiolres12010004 - 10 Jan 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3707

Abstract

(1) Background: Schwannomas of the vestibulocochlear nerve are benign, slow-growing tumors, arising from the Schwann cells. When they originate from neural elements within the vestibule or cochlea, they are defined as intralabyrinthine schwannomas (ILSs). Cochlear implant (CI) has been reported as a feasible [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Schwannomas of the vestibulocochlear nerve are benign, slow-growing tumors, arising from the Schwann cells. When they originate from neural elements within the vestibule or cochlea, they are defined as intralabyrinthine schwannomas (ILSs). Cochlear implant (CI) has been reported as a feasible solution for hearing restoration in these patients. (2) Methods: Two patients with single-sided deafness (SSD) due to sudden sensorineural hearing loss and ipsilateral tinnitus were the cases. MRI detected an ILS. CI was positioned using a standard round window approach without tumor removal. (3) Results: The hearing threshold was 35 dB in one case and 30 dB in the other 6 mo after activation. Speech audiometry with bisillables in quiet was 21% and 27% at 65 dB, and the tinnitus was completely resolved or reduced. In the localization test, a 25.9° error azimuth was obtained with CI on, compared to 43.2° without CI. The data log reported a daily use of 11 h and 14 h. In order to not decrease the CI’s performance, we decided not to perform tumor exeresis, but only CI surgery to restore functional binaural hearing. (4) Conclusions: These are the sixth and seventh cases in the literature of CI in patients with ILS without any tumor treatment and the first with SSD. Cochlear implant without tumor removal can be a feasible option for restoring binaural hearing without worsening the CI’s performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Cochlear Implantation)

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11 pages, 1793 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of Balance Problems and Rehabilitation Needs of Patients with Ménière’s Disease

by Ilmari Pyykkö, Nora Pyykkö, Jing Zou and Vinaya Manchaiah

Audiol. Res. 2022, 12(1), 22-32; https://doi.org/10.3390/audiolres12010003 - 5 Jan 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2778

Abstract

Background: To explore and characterize balance problems in subjects with Ménière’s disease (MD). Methods: A total of 539 people with MD with a mean age of 61.9 years, mean disease history of 15.6 years, and 79.5% females were recruited. The online questionnaire, consisting [...] Read more.

Background: To explore and characterize balance problems in subjects with Ménière’s disease (MD). Methods: A total of 539 people with MD with a mean age of 61.9 years, mean disease history of 15.6 years, and 79.5% females were recruited. The online questionnaire, consisting of 39 questions, including both structured and open-ended questions, focused on symptoms of MD, balance problems, impacts of the complaints, and quality of life (QoL). Results: After hearing loss (58%) and tinnitus (50%), balance problems (44%) were among the most commonly reported MD complaints, even higher than the impact of vertigo (40%). However, only 22% reported that those balance problems made obvious impacts in their daily lives. The most common balance problem that significantly reduced QoL was tripping (34%). Swaying (25%) had a limited impact on QoL, whereas rocking (10%) was less common but caused a significant impact on QoL. Non-defined balance problems were reported at 18%; these were occasional and correlated with vertigo attacks. Older participants had more frequent tripping problems. Younger participants more frequently reported swaying and rocking. Conclusions: Risk factors predicting poor postural control were mostly related to complaints reflecting otolith pathology. Different types of postural problems require different strategies to manage balance control and cope with the disease. Full article

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12 pages, 650 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Fifty Years of Development of the Skull Vibration-Induced Nystagmus Test

by Solara Sinno, Sébastien Schmerber, Philippe Perrin and Georges Dumas

Audiol. Res. 2022, 12(1), 10-21; https://doi.org/10.3390/audiolres12010002 - 30 Dec 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2853

Abstract

This review enumerates most of the studies on the Skull Vibration-Induced Nystagmus Test (SVINT) in the past 50 years from different research groups around the world. It is an attempt to demonstrate the evolution of this test and its increased interest around the [...] Read more.

This review enumerates most of the studies on the Skull Vibration-Induced Nystagmus Test (SVINT) in the past 50 years from different research groups around the world. It is an attempt to demonstrate the evolution of this test and its increased interest around the globe. It explores clinical studies and animal studies, both permitting a better understanding of the importance of SVINT and its pathophysiology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Skull Vibration-Induced Nystagmus Test)

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9 pages, 268 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceConcept Paper

Interdisciplinary Approaches to the Study of Listening Effort in Young Children with Cochlear Implants

by Amanda Saksida, Sara Ghiselli, Stefano Bembich, Alessandro Scorpecci, Sara Giannantonio, Alessandra Resca, Pasquale Marsella and Eva Orzan

Audiol. Res. 2022, 12(1), 1-9; https://doi.org/10.3390/audiolres12010001 - 21 Dec 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3513

Abstract

Very early bilateral implantation is thought to significantly reduce the attentional effort required to acquire spoken language, and consequently offer a profound improvement in quality of life. Despite the early intervention, however, auditory and communicative outcomes in children with cochlear implants remain poorer [...] Read more.

Very early bilateral implantation is thought to significantly reduce the attentional effort required to acquire spoken language, and consequently offer a profound improvement in quality of life. Despite the early intervention, however, auditory and communicative outcomes in children with cochlear implants remain poorer than in hearing children. The distorted auditory input via the cochlear implants requires more auditory attention resulting in increased listening effort and fatigue. Listening effort and fatigue may critically affect attention to speech, and in turn language processing, which may help to explain the variation in language and communication abilities. However, measuring attention to speech and listening effort is demanding in infants and very young children. Three objective techniques for measuring listening effort are presented in this paper that may address the challenges of testing very young and/or uncooperative children with cochlear implants: pupillometry, electroencephalography, and functional near-infrared spectroscopy. We review the studies of listening effort that used these techniques in paediatric populations with hearing loss, and discuss potential benefits of the systematic evaluation of listening effort in these populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Cochlear Implantation)

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Audiol. Res., Volume 12, Issue 1 (February 2022) – 11 articles

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