Background and Objectives:The perception of sound in the vertical plane supports spatial hearing by enabling listeners to detect sources located above and below.Sounds originating from both the front and back elevatio...Background and Objectives:The perception of sound in the vertical plane supports spatial hearing by enabling listeners to detect sources located above and below.Sounds originating from both the front and back elevations along the mid-sagittal plane further contribute to a three-dimensional auditory experience.This study aimed to characterize the variability in vertical sound localization abilities among normal-hearing(NH)individuals using spatialized audio.Materials and Methods:Fifty-one NH participants(aged 18 to 35 years)completed three vertical localization tasks under headphones as part of a single-group,within-subject experimental study.These tasks included two-plane identification:(1)top-down localization,(2)front-back localization,and one discrimination task in the front plane.Hierarchical Cluster Analysis(HCA)was employed to identify distinct patterns in spatial localization profiles specific to the vertical-median plane.Fisher's Discriminant Function Analysis(FDA)was used to validate the accuracy of HCA and estimate classification error.Results:HCA revealed three distinct listener clusters:(1)cluster 1 with good performance across all three tasks,(2)cluster 2 with selective impairment in top-bottom identification,and(3)cluster 3 with selective deficits in front-back identification.FDA validated group membership of the clusters identified by the HCA,with a prediction accuracy of 98%.Conclusions:Individuals with clinically NH exhibited three distinct vertical localization profiles:uniform performers,those impaired in top-bottom identification,and those impaired in front-back identification.These profiles may be linked to the interplay between acoustic and non-acoustic perceptual factors.展开更多
Background:Brucellosis is a zoonotic infection common in Mediterranean countries and the Middle East.Neurological involvement,although rare,can lead to severe complications,including sensorineural hearing loss(SNHL).T...Background:Brucellosis is a zoonotic infection common in Mediterranean countries and the Middle East.Neurological involvement,although rare,can lead to severe complications,including sensorineural hearing loss(SNHL).This case is particularly noteworthy as it highlights irreversible auditory nerve damage in brucellosis,emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and treatment to prevent permanent neurological consequences.The novelty of this case lies in the severity of auditory involvement despite timely treatment.Case Presentation:A 43-year-old male farmer of Maghrebi origin presented with neurobrucellosis complicated by severe,irreversible bilateral sensorineural hearing loss.The patient initially reported symptoms of hearing loss and dizziness,which were confirmed to be associated with auditory nerve involvement.Wright's serology and polymerase chain reaction(PCR)testing confirmed brucellosis.Despite appropriate and prolonged antibiotic therapy,including drugs that penetrate the meningeal barrier and act intracellularly,the patient's auditory impairment remained permanent.The patient is currently a candidate for cochlear implantation to manage his severe hearing loss.Neurological symptoms did not improve with treatment,but cochlear implantation may offer a potential solution to his hearing deficit.Conclusions:This case highlights the importance of early recognition and intervention in brucellosis cases,particularly those with neurological involvement.Delayed diagnosis and treatment can result in irreversible neurological damage.It also underscores the potential for cochlear implantation in patients with severe,irreversible sensorineural hearing loss caused by neurobrucellosis.Cochlear implantation offers an important solution for patients with brucellosis-related hearing deficits,improving their quality of life despite the neurological damage caused by the infection.展开更多
The mammalian cochlea relies on outer and inner hair cells(OHCs/IHCs)for sound amplification and signal transmission.Rab3-interacting molecular binding protein 2(RIMBP2),expressed in receptor cells and neurons at syna...The mammalian cochlea relies on outer and inner hair cells(OHCs/IHCs)for sound amplification and signal transmission.Rab3-interacting molecular binding protein 2(RIMBP2),expressed in receptor cells and neurons at synaptic active zones,remains poorly characterized in hearing.We therefore generated a Rimbp2 knockout(KO)mouse model(Rimbp^(2-/-)),which exhibited severe hearing loss with elevated thresholds,prolonged latencies,and reduced amplitudes in auditory brainstem response Wave I.OHC loss via apoptosis was correlated with threshold elevation.In IHCs,patch-clamp recordings revealed reduced exocytosis,including a diminished readily-releasable pool,impaired sustained release,and blocked fast endocytosis.Immunostaining showed unchanged ribbon synapse numbers but positional shifts in the basal pole of KO IHCs.These findings demonstrated RIMBP2’s essential role in OHC survival and its broader regulatory functions in IHC synaptic transmission than previously recognized.展开更多
Tinnitus:the hearing of a sound that has not been produced by any external or internal source,is a rather heterogeneous hearing disorder.Background/Objectives:Hearing loss has been shown to be the main risk factor for...Tinnitus:the hearing of a sound that has not been produced by any external or internal source,is a rather heterogeneous hearing disorder.Background/Objectives:Hearing loss has been shown to be the main risk factor for tinnitus while emotional disorders are risk factors for developing intrusive or bothersome tinnitus.Moreover,aging has also been identified as another risk factor.The aim of this paper was to analyse the correlation between hearing loss,age and tinnitus severity in a cohort of 610 tinnitus sufferers.Methods:Age,audiometric(hearing condition)and tinnitus(time duration and severity)data were assessed and analysed for all subjects just after recruiting(baseline).Furthermore,the average hearing loss(HL)curves of the participants for age groups were compared to these with the corresponding Age Related HL(ARHL).Results:For most of the age groups,the measured HL curves exceeded in 10-20 dB those of the ARHL.The average age of tinnitus onset(age minus tinnitus duration)was found to be 44-46 years in both men and women.Weak correlation between audiometric feature and tinnitus distress was observed.Conclusions:Hearing loss has been shown to be a clear risk factor for triggering tinnitus(86%of participants were hearing impaired).In this cohort,average measures of hearing loss showed,at most,weak associations with tinnitus-related distress,suggesting that non-audiological factors may play a predominant role.展开更多
Cisplatin is a widely-used chemotherapeutic agent,but its dose-limiting ototoxicity often results in irreversible hearing loss.The pathogenesis involves oxidative stress,apoptosis,DNA damage,and inflammatory responses...Cisplatin is a widely-used chemotherapeutic agent,but its dose-limiting ototoxicity often results in irreversible hearing loss.The pathogenesis involves oxidative stress,apoptosis,DNA damage,and inflammatory responses,yet effective preventive strategies remain limited.Here,we demonstrate that magnesium hydride(MgH_(2)),a hydrogen-releasing compound,provides robust protection against cisplatin-induced hearing loss.Our results showed that MgH_(2)protected auditory function and preserved cochlear hair cells in vivo.Furthermore,it significantly attenuated cisplatin-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in cultured HEI-OC1(House Ear Institute-Organ of Corti 1)cells and cochlear explants.Notably,MgH_(2)suppressed NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3(NLRP3)-mediated inflammatory cascades,thereby limiting downstream inflammatory damage.These findings revealed that MgH_(2)alleviated cisplatin-induced hearing loss through integrated antioxidant,anti-inflammatory,and anti-apoptotic pathways,with NLRP3 identified as a critical regulatory molecule.Collectively,our study provides compelling evidence for MgH_(2)as a potential therapeutic candidate for the prevention of cisplatin-induced hearing loss.展开更多
Cochlear hair cell(HC)damage is a primary cause of sensorineural hearing loss.In this study,we performed metabolomic profiling of cochlear sensory epithelium following neomycin-induced HC injury and identified elevate...Cochlear hair cell(HC)damage is a primary cause of sensorineural hearing loss.In this study,we performed metabolomic profiling of cochlear sensory epithelium following neomycin-induced HC injury and identified elevated arginine metabolism as a key metabolic characteristic of damaged HCs.Using a highly sensitive and specific biosensor,we confirmed that injury induced an increase in arginine levels within cochlear HCs.By manipulating the levels of arginine and its downstream metabolites,we discovered that unmetabolized arginine exerts a strong protective effect on cochlear HCs,independent of its downstream metabolites,such as nitric oxide.Furthermore,integrated metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses revealed that arginine plays a critical role in reprogramming phospholipid metabolism.Arginine supplementation enhanced membrane phospholipid saturation through the Lands cycle and de novo lipogenesis,and protected HCs from phospholipid peroxidation-induced membrane damage and subsequent cell death.Notably,arginine supplementation protected hearing from both noise-and aminoglycoside-induced injury in mice.These findings underscore the role of unmetabolized arginine in modulating phospholipid metabolism and preventing membrane damage in cochlear HCs,highlighting that targeting phospholipid metabolism is an effective hearing protection strategy.展开更多
Circadian sensitivity significantly influences the severity of noise-induced hearing loss(NIHL),but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear.Here,we applied single-cell RNA sequencing to 97,043 cochlear cells,identify...Circadian sensitivity significantly influences the severity of noise-induced hearing loss(NIHL),but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear.Here,we applied single-cell RNA sequencing to 97,043 cochlear cells,identifying macrophages as the primary immune responders to acoustic trauma,with a notable increase in their proportion in the cochlea.Immunofluorescence confirmed significant recruitment and activation of cochlear macrophages following noise exposure,while in vivo macrophage depletion resulted in the recovery of hearing.Furthermore,analyses of differentially-expressed genes and pathways revealed pronounced activation of NLRP3 inflammasome signaling in macrophages during night-time noise exposure.Measurements of elevated IL-1βand IL-18 expression in cochlear macrophages by multiplex immunohistochemistry correlated with heightened inflammation in the night-time exposure group.These findings were further confirmed by the administration of the selective NLRP3 inhibitor CY-09,which mitigated inflammasome activation,preserved synaptic integrity,and protect against hearing loss.In conclusion,our findings underscore the role of macrophage-driven NLRP3 inflammasome activation in mediating circadian variations in cochlear damage,offering a potential therapeutic target for mitigating NIHL.展开更多
Background:Early Hearing Detection and Intervention(EHDI)plays a critical role in improving language,cognitive,and socio-emotional outcomes for infants with hearing loss.In Nigeria,however,EHDI implementation remains ...Background:Early Hearing Detection and Intervention(EHDI)plays a critical role in improving language,cognitive,and socio-emotional outcomes for infants with hearing loss.In Nigeria,however,EHDI implementation remains limited by fragmented service delivery,uneven technological capacity,and sociocultural factors that delay timely diagnosis.This study explored the perspectives of paediatric audiologists and parents to provide a comprehensive understanding of the opportunities and challenges influencing early hearing care across diverse Nigerian settings.Methods:A mixed-methods design was employed across audiology facilities selected systematically from four Nigerian geopolitical zones.Twenty-five paediatric audiologists and twenty-three parents of children with congenital hearing loss participated.Quantitative data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing awareness,diagnostic access,and intervention experiences.Qualitative data were obtained through semi-structured interviews and two focus group discussions.Thematic analysis followed Braun and Clarke's six-step framework,with dual coding,external auditing,and member validation to enhance credibility.Results:Quantitative findings demonstrated broad agreement on the diagnostic value of otoacoustic emissions(OAEs)and automated auditory brainstem responses(AABRs),the developmental benefits of early intervention,and the importance of active parental involvement.However,respondents identified persistent barriers including high costs of screening and therapy,poor public awareness of early hearing loss symptoms,and a critical shortage of trained personnel,and unequal distribution of diagnostic tools,particularly in rural and northern regions.Thematic analysis further underscored disparities in diagnostic capacity,sociocultural interpretations of deafness that delay clinical consultation,and economic constraints that hinder continuity of care.While families who accessed early intervention reported improved communication,social engagement,and learning readiness in their children,systemic gaps continue to limit widespread success.Conclusions:Despite growing technological capacity and awareness of EHDI benefits,significant structural,financial,and sociocultural challenges continue to impede timely diagnosis and intervention in Nigeria.Strengthening national policies,ensuring equitable distribution of diagnostic tools,expanding professional training,subsidising services,implementing culturally sensitive awareness campaigns and integration of Universal Newborn Hearing Screening into routine postnatal care are essential to improving outcomes for deaf infants.展开更多
Aminoglycosides are a widely used class of antibacterials renowned for their effectiveness and broad antimicrobial spectrum.However,their use leads to irreversible hearing damage by causing apoptosis of hair cells as ...Aminoglycosides are a widely used class of antibacterials renowned for their effectiveness and broad antimicrobial spectrum.However,their use leads to irreversible hearing damage by causing apoptosis of hair cells as their direct target.In addition,the hearing damage caused by aminoglycosides involves damage of spiral ganglion neurons upon exposure.To investigate the mechanisms underlying spiral ganglion neuron degeneration induced by aminoglycosides,we used a C57BL/6J mouse model treated with kanamycin.We found that the mice exhibited auditory deficits following the acute loss of outer hair cells.Spiral ganglion neurons displayed hallmarks of pyroptosis and exhibited progressive degeneration over time.Transcriptomic profiling of these neurons showed significant upregulation of genes associated with inflammation and immune response,particularly those related to the NLRP3 inflammasome.Activation of the canonical pyroptotic pathway in spiral ganglion neurons was observed,accompanied by infiltration of macrophages and the release of proinflammatory cytokines.Pharmacological intervention targeting NLRP3 using Mcc950 and genetic intervention using NLRP3 knockout ameliorated spiral ganglion neuron degeneration in the injury model.These findings suggest that NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis plays a role in aminoglycoside-induced spiral ganglion neuron degeneration.Inhibition of this pathway may offer a potential therapeutic strategy for treating sensorineural hearing loss by reducing spiral ganglion neuron degeneration.展开更多
This editorial critically evaluates the application of foot reflexology as a treatment for sensorineural hearing loss(SNHL)in infants,as proposed in a case report published in the World of Clinical Cases.SNHL is a con...This editorial critically evaluates the application of foot reflexology as a treatment for sensorineural hearing loss(SNHL)in infants,as proposed in a case report published in the World of Clinical Cases.SNHL is a condition characterized by damage to the cochlea or the neural pathways that transmit auditory information to the brain.The etiology of SNHL is often complex,involving genetic mutations,prenatal factors,or perinatal insults.Reflexology,an alternative therapy involving the application of pressure to specific points on the feet,is based on the hypothesis that these points correspond to different organs and systems in the body,including the auditory system.However,the biological plausibility and clinical efficacy of foot reflexology in addressing SNHL lack empirical support.This editorial examines the pathophysiology of SNHL,assesses the clinical claims of reflexology practitioners,and emphasizes the necessity of evidence-based approaches in treating infant hearing loss.While complementary therapies may provide ancillary benefits,they should not supplant validated medical treatments in managing SNHL in infants.Further research is needed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of foot reflexology and other alternative therapies in pediatric audiology.展开更多
The cochlea is one of the most complex organs in the human body,exhibiting a complex interplay of characteristics in acoustic,mechanical,electrical,and biological functions.Functional cochlea models are an essential p...The cochlea is one of the most complex organs in the human body,exhibiting a complex interplay of characteristics in acoustic,mechanical,electrical,and biological functions.Functional cochlea models are an essential platform for studying hearing mechanics and are crucial for developing next-generation auditory prostheses and artificial hearing systems for sensorineural hearing restoration.Recent advances in additive manufacturing,organ-on-a-chip models,drug delivery platforms,and artificial intelligence have provided valuable insights into how to manufacture artificial cochlea models that more accurately replicate the complex anatomy and physiology of the inner ear.This paper reviews recent advancements in the applications of advanced manufacturing techniques in reproducing the physical,biological,and intelligent functions of the cochlea.It also outlines the current challenges to developing mechanically,electrically,and anatomically accurate functional models of the inner ear.Finally,this review identifies the major requirements and outlook for impactful research in this field going forward.Through interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation,these functional cochlea models are poised to drive significant advancements in hearing treatments,and ultimately enhance the quality of life for individuals with hearing loss.展开更多
Background Sudden sensorineural hearing loss(SSNHL)is a rapid condition of hearing impairment,typically occurring over 72 hours and affecting the inner ear or auditory nerve pathways.The etiology of SSNHL remains larg...Background Sudden sensorineural hearing loss(SSNHL)is a rapid condition of hearing impairment,typically occurring over 72 hours and affecting the inner ear or auditory nerve pathways.The etiology of SSNHL remains largely idiopathic,with potential causes including viral infections,vascular occlusions,and autoimmune disorders.Traditional treatment primarily involves systemic corticosteroids,but their efficacy is inconsistent,leading to exploring alternative and adjunctive therapies such as intratympanic steroid(ITS)injections.Objective This Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis intends to determine the effectiveness of ITS injections as an initial treatment,combined therapy,or salvage treatment for SSNHL compared to systemic steroids alone.Methods An inclusive study was performed through the PubMed,Scopus,Web of Science,and Cochrane Library databases,encompassing publications published from 2015 to 2024.Case-control studies,cohort studies,randomized controlled trials(RCTs),and systematic reviews were included.Two separate reviewers read the studies and extracted data on steroid administration methods,study outcomes,and risk of bias(ROB)using the Cochrane Collaboration Tool and RevMan 5.4.Results The review included 12 studies with varied designs,including prospective RCTs,systematic reviews,and retrospective analyses.Combined ITS and systemic steroid therapy showed superior hearing recovery compared to systemic steroids alone in several studies.ITS alone demonstrated variable efficacy,with some studies indicating benefits,particularly as a salvage therapy.ROB assessment revealed variability in methodological rigor,with studies like those of Li&Ding et al.(2020)and Devantier et al.(2022)showing low risk,while others exhibited higher risks,particularly in random sequence generation and allocation concealment.Conclusion The findings suggest that ITS injections,particularly when combined with systemic steroids,can enhance hearing recovery in SSNHL patients.However,variability in study outcomes and methodological quality underscores the need for standardized protocols and further high-quality RCTs.This analysis underscores the prospective advantages of ITS therapy while stressing the need for stringent study designs to enhance SSNHL treatment methodologies.展开更多
Objectives:Sudden sensorineural hearing loss(SSNHL)is a sudden onset condition of unknown etiology,often accompanied by tinnitus and vertigo,significantly affecting patients'quality of life.While some individuals ...Objectives:Sudden sensorineural hearing loss(SSNHL)is a sudden onset condition of unknown etiology,often accompanied by tinnitus and vertigo,significantly affecting patients'quality of life.While some individuals experience spontaneous recovery,the unpredictability of treatment outcomes and potential complications pose clinical challenges.Recent studies suggest a potential link between thyroid hormone levels-particularly free triiodothyronine(FT3)and thyroid-stimulating hormone(TSH)-and both the pathogenesis and prognosis of SSNHL.However,the precise mechanisms remain unclear.This study aims to investigate the correlation between thyroid hormone abnormalities and hearing recovery in SSNHL patients,providing insights to enhance diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.Methods:This prospective observational study included 66 SSNHL patients admitted to the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University between April 2024 and February 2025.Serum TSH and FT3 levels were measured using chemiluminescence immunoassay,while hearing function was evaluated through pure-tone audiometry following standard guidelines.The“posttreatment hearing gap(PTHG)”was introduced as a quantitative measure of treatment efficacy.All patients received comprehensive treatment,including glucocorticoid therapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy,and were classified into effective and ineffective groups based on hearing recovery outcomes.Results:No significant differences in gender or comorbidities(tinnitus,ear fullness,dizziness)were observed between the abnormal thyroid function group(n=45)and the normal thyroid function group(n=21)(all p>0.05).Similarly,initial TSH and FT3 levels did not differ significantly among patients with varying degrees of hearing impairment(mild,moderate,severe)(p>0.05).However,during treatment,ΔFT3 demonstrated a significant negative correlation with PTHG(r=-0.739,p=0.002),suggesting that a greater increase inΔFT3 is associated with improved hearing recovery.Additionally,TSH levels showed a significant positive correlation withΔFT3(p<0.05).Conclusions:Abnormal thyroid function in SSNHL patients was not associated with the severity of hearing loss.However,dynamic changes in FT3 during treatment showed a significant correlation with therapeutic efficacy,suggesting that monitoringΔFT3 may have clinical value in prognostic assessment.Nonetheless,this study had a limited sample size,and the potential influence of hormone therapy on thyroid function was not accounted for.Therefore,the role of thyroid hormones in SSNHL warrants further validation through large-scale prospective studies and mechanistic investigations.展开更多
Objective: To study the relationship between cortical auditory evoked potential (CAEP) thresholds and behavioral thresholds in pediatric populations with sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). Methods: Fifteen children (m...Objective: To study the relationship between cortical auditory evoked potential (CAEP) thresholds and behavioral thresholds in pediatric populations with sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). Methods: Fifteen children (mean age 6.8 years) with bilateral SNHL underwent behavioral pure-tone audiometry and CAEP testing at 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 kHz. CAEP thresholds were determined using tone bursts, and correlations between CAEP and pure-tone thresholds were analyzed using Pearson correlation and t-tests. Results: A strong positive correlation was observed between P1 thresholds and behavioral thresholds across all test frequencies: 0.5 kHz (r = 0.765, p Conclusion: The strong correlation between P1 and behavioral thresholds demonstrates the reliability of CAEP testing for estimating auditory thresholds in children. These findings support the use of CAEP testing as a reliable objective tool for threshold estimation, particularly in cases where behavioral responses cannot be reliably obtained. When adjusted with frequency-specific correction values, CAEP testing provides a reliable method for assessing hearing thresholds in pediatric populations.展开更多
The objectives of this review were to 1)summarize the available evidence on the impact of hearing loss on quality of life(QOL)among U.S.active-duty service members,2)describe the QOL instruments that have been used to...The objectives of this review were to 1)summarize the available evidence on the impact of hearing loss on quality of life(QOL)among U.S.active-duty service members,2)describe the QOL instruments that have been used to quantify the impact of hearing loss on quality of life,3)examine national population-level secondary databases and report on their utility for studying the impact of hearing loss on QOL among active-duty service members,and 4)provide recommendations for future studies that seek to quantify the impact of hearing loss in this population.There is a lack of literature that addresses the intersection of hearing impairment,the military population,and quality of life measures.For audiological research,U.S.military personnel offer a unique research population,as they are exposed to noise levels and blast environments that are highly unusual in civilian work settings and can serve as a model population for studying the impact on QOL associated with these conditions.This review recommends conducting a study on the active-duty service member population using a measurement instrument suitable for determining decreases in QOL specifically due to hearing loss.展开更多
Purpose To investigate the perinatal risk factors for conductive hearing loss(CHL)in infancy and develop an initial prediction model to facilitate accurate diagnosis and early detection of CHL.Method This retrospectiv...Purpose To investigate the perinatal risk factors for conductive hearing loss(CHL)in infancy and develop an initial prediction model to facilitate accurate diagnosis and early detection of CHL.Method This retrospective study utilized data from the Newborn Cohort Study of Hearing Loss(ChiCTR2100049765).Infants who underwent diagnostic audiological assessments at our hospital between January 2003 and June 2024 were included.Data analysis was conducted using R(version 4.4.1)to construct an initial prediction model for CHL in infancy,applying the LASSO regression technique.Results A total of 661 infants(1322 ears)were included,with 1253 ears in the normal hearing group and 69 ears in the CHL group.Statistically significant differences were observed between the groups in the following factors:parent-reported infant response to sound,craniofacial deformities,neonatal hemolysis,jaundice treatment,and neonatal hypoglycemia.A multivariate prediction model and nomogram for CHL in infancy were developed and validated,achieving an accuracy of 92.5%and a specificity of 91.3%.Conclusions This study identified key risk factors for CHL in infancy and developed a preliminary predictive model,improving the diagnostic accuracy for CHL.Improved diagnostic precision can decrease misdiagnoses,reduce delays in treatment,and limit unnecessary antimicrobial prescriptions for infants.展开更多
Hearing loss is the third leading cause of human disability.Age-related hearing loss,one type of acquired sensorineural hearing loss,is largely responsible for this escalating global health burden.Noise-induced,ototox...Hearing loss is the third leading cause of human disability.Age-related hearing loss,one type of acquired sensorineural hearing loss,is largely responsible for this escalating global health burden.Noise-induced,ototoxic,and idiopathic sudden sensorineural are other less common types of acquired hearing loss.The etiology of these conditions is complex and multi-fa ctorial involving an interplay of genetic and environmental factors.Oxidative stress has recently been proposed as a likely linking cause in most types of acquired sensorineural hearing loss.Short non-coding RNA sequences known as microRNAs(miRNAs)have increasingly been shown to play a role in cellular hypoxia and oxidative stress responses including promoting an apoptotic response.Sensory hair cell death is a central histopathological finding in sensorineural hearing loss.As these cells do not regenerate in humans,it underlies the irreversibility of human age-related hearing loss.Ovid EMBASE,Ovid MEDLINE,Web of Science Core Collection,and ClinicalTrials.gov databases over the period August 1,2018 to July 31,2023 were searched with"hearing loss,""hypoxamiRs,""hypoxia,""microRNAs,""ischemia,"and"oxidative stress"text words for English language primary study publications or registered clinical trials.Registe red clinical trials known to the senior author we re also assessed.A total of 222studies were thus identified.After excluding duplicates,editorials,retra ctions,secondary research studies,and non-English language articles,39 primary studies and clinical trials underwent full-text screening.This resulted in 11 animal,in vitro,and/or human subject journal articles and 8 registered clinical trial database entries which form the basis of this narrative review.MiRNAs miR-34a and miR-29b levels increase with age in mice.These miRNAs were demonstrated in human neuroblastoma and murine cochlear cell lines to target Sirtuin 1/peroxisome proliferato r-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1-alpha(SIRT1/P GC-1α),SIRT1p53,and SIRT1/hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha signaling pathways resulting in increased apoptosis.Furthermore,hypoxia and oxidative stress had a similar adve rse apoptotic effect,which was inhibited by resve ratrol and a myocardial inhibitorassociated transcript,a miR-29b competing endogenous mRNA.Gentamicin reduced miR-182-5p levels and increased cochlear oxidative stress and cell death in mice-an effect that was corrected by inner ear stem cell-derived exosomes.There is ongoing work seeking to determine if these findings can be effectively translated to humans.展开更多
Noise-induced hearing loss is the primary non-genetic factor contributing to auditory dysfunction.However,there are currently no effective pharmacological interventions for patients with noise-induced hearing loss.Her...Noise-induced hearing loss is the primary non-genetic factor contributing to auditory dysfunction.However,there are currently no effective pharmacological interventions for patients with noise-induced hearing loss.Here,we present evidence suggesting that the lysine-specific demethylase 1 inhibitor–tranylcypromine is an otoprotective agent that could be used to treat noise-induced hearing loss,and elucidate its underlying regulatory mechanisms.We established a mouse model of permanent threshold shift hearing loss by exposing the mice to white broadband noise at a sound pressure level of 120 d B for 4 hours.We found that tranylcypromine treatment led to the upregulation of Sestrin2(SESN2)and activation of the autophagy markers light chain 3B and lysosome-associated membrane glycoprotein 1 in the cochleae of mice treated with tranylcypromine.The noise exposure group treated with tranylcypromine showed significantly lower average auditory brainstem response hearing thresholds at click,4,8,and 16 k Hz frequencies compared with the noise exposure group treated with saline.These findings indicate that tranylcypromine treatment resulted in increased SESN2,light chain 3B,and lysosome-associated membrane glycoprotein 1 expression after noise exposure,leading to a reduction in levels of 4-hydroxynonenal and cleaved caspase-3,thereby reducing noise-induced hair cell loss.Additionally,immunoblot analysis demonstrated that treatment with tranylcypromine upregulated SESN2 expression via the autophagy pathway.Tranylcypromine treatment also reduced the production of NOD-like receptor family pyrin domaincontaining 3(NLRP3)production.In conclusion,our results showed that tranylcypromine treatment ameliorated cochlear inflammation by promoting the expression of SESN2,which induced autophagy,thereby restricting NLRP3-related inflammasome signaling,alleviating cochlear hair cell loss,and protecting hearing function.These findings suggest that inhibiting lysine-specific demethylase 1 is a potential therapeutic strategy for preventing hair cell loss and noise-induced hearing loss.展开更多
Foot reflexology is a non-invasive and safe complementary therapy that works by massaging the reflex zones of the feet and exerts systemic or whole-body regulation through meridian nerve conduction.This therapy is com...Foot reflexology is a non-invasive and safe complementary therapy that works by massaging the reflex zones of the feet and exerts systemic or whole-body regulation through meridian nerve conduction.This therapy is commonly used in the treatment of various conditions such as autism and Parkinson's disease.However,there is limited reporting on the use of foot reflexology therapy for infants with sensorineural hearing loss(SNHL).Currently,there is no definitive conclusion on how foot reflexology therapy can influence hearing.This editorial holds some guiding significance regarding this clinical issue.The aim is to present physiological evidence of how foot reflexology therapy can impact infants with SNHL,thereby enhancing clinician’s awareness of foot reflexology in treating infants with SNHL.展开更多
Early intervention for sensorineural hearing loss(SNHL)in childhood is crucial for auditory and language development.In recent years,innovative auditory stimulation techniques and speech therapy strategies,such as mid...Early intervention for sensorineural hearing loss(SNHL)in childhood is crucial for auditory and language development.In recent years,innovative auditory stimulation techniques and speech therapy strategies,such as middle ear implants,cochlear implants,auditory brainstem implants,and midbrain implants,have provided new avenues for improving patient outcomes.Additionally,basic research advancements in cell reprogramming and regeneration,stem cell therapy,and targeted drug delivery offer promising approaches to meet the individualized needs of children with SNHL.However,many challenges and unresolved issues remain in the treatment of SNHL.This article comments on the case report,which describes a female pediatric patient with SNHL who underwent foot reflexology which led to the normalization of hearing thresholds.Reflexology is considered to have potential benefits in physical rehabilitation,but its efficacy in hearing restoration requires further scientific validation through rigorous clinical trials and large-scale prospective studies.展开更多
文摘Background and Objectives:The perception of sound in the vertical plane supports spatial hearing by enabling listeners to detect sources located above and below.Sounds originating from both the front and back elevations along the mid-sagittal plane further contribute to a three-dimensional auditory experience.This study aimed to characterize the variability in vertical sound localization abilities among normal-hearing(NH)individuals using spatialized audio.Materials and Methods:Fifty-one NH participants(aged 18 to 35 years)completed three vertical localization tasks under headphones as part of a single-group,within-subject experimental study.These tasks included two-plane identification:(1)top-down localization,(2)front-back localization,and one discrimination task in the front plane.Hierarchical Cluster Analysis(HCA)was employed to identify distinct patterns in spatial localization profiles specific to the vertical-median plane.Fisher's Discriminant Function Analysis(FDA)was used to validate the accuracy of HCA and estimate classification error.Results:HCA revealed three distinct listener clusters:(1)cluster 1 with good performance across all three tasks,(2)cluster 2 with selective impairment in top-bottom identification,and(3)cluster 3 with selective deficits in front-back identification.FDA validated group membership of the clusters identified by the HCA,with a prediction accuracy of 98%.Conclusions:Individuals with clinically NH exhibited three distinct vertical localization profiles:uniform performers,those impaired in top-bottom identification,and those impaired in front-back identification.These profiles may be linked to the interplay between acoustic and non-acoustic perceptual factors.
文摘Background:Brucellosis is a zoonotic infection common in Mediterranean countries and the Middle East.Neurological involvement,although rare,can lead to severe complications,including sensorineural hearing loss(SNHL).This case is particularly noteworthy as it highlights irreversible auditory nerve damage in brucellosis,emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and treatment to prevent permanent neurological consequences.The novelty of this case lies in the severity of auditory involvement despite timely treatment.Case Presentation:A 43-year-old male farmer of Maghrebi origin presented with neurobrucellosis complicated by severe,irreversible bilateral sensorineural hearing loss.The patient initially reported symptoms of hearing loss and dizziness,which were confirmed to be associated with auditory nerve involvement.Wright's serology and polymerase chain reaction(PCR)testing confirmed brucellosis.Despite appropriate and prolonged antibiotic therapy,including drugs that penetrate the meningeal barrier and act intracellularly,the patient's auditory impairment remained permanent.The patient is currently a candidate for cochlear implantation to manage his severe hearing loss.Neurological symptoms did not improve with treatment,but cochlear implantation may offer a potential solution to his hearing deficit.Conclusions:This case highlights the importance of early recognition and intervention in brucellosis cases,particularly those with neurological involvement.Delayed diagnosis and treatment can result in irreversible neurological damage.It also underscores the potential for cochlear implantation in patients with severe,irreversible sensorineural hearing loss caused by neurobrucellosis.Cochlear implantation offers an important solution for patients with brucellosis-related hearing deficits,improving their quality of life despite the neurological damage caused by the infection.
基金supported by grants from the National Key R&D Program of China(2021YFA1101300,2021YFA1101800,2020YFA0112503,and 2024YFC2511103)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82330033,82030029,82401375,81970882,92149304,and 81970883)+7 种基金the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province(BK20232007)the Science and Technology Department of Sichuan Province(2021YFS0371)Shenzhen Fundamental Research Program(JCYJ20210324125608022)the Open Project Fund of Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences(YKY-KF202201)Beijing Natural Science Foundation(Z200019)the Jiangsu Provincial Scientific Research Center of Applied Mathematics(BK20233002)the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(2023TQ0056,2023M730575,and GZC20230435)Jiangsu Funding Program for Excellent Postdoctoral Talent(2023ZB822).
文摘The mammalian cochlea relies on outer and inner hair cells(OHCs/IHCs)for sound amplification and signal transmission.Rab3-interacting molecular binding protein 2(RIMBP2),expressed in receptor cells and neurons at synaptic active zones,remains poorly characterized in hearing.We therefore generated a Rimbp2 knockout(KO)mouse model(Rimbp^(2-/-)),which exhibited severe hearing loss with elevated thresholds,prolonged latencies,and reduced amplitudes in auditory brainstem response Wave I.OHC loss via apoptosis was correlated with threshold elevation.In IHCs,patch-clamp recordings revealed reduced exocytosis,including a diminished readily-releasable pool,impaired sustained release,and blocked fast endocytosis.Immunostaining showed unchanged ribbon synapse numbers but positional shifts in the basal pole of KO IHCs.These findings demonstrated RIMBP2’s essential role in OHC survival and its broader regulatory functions in IHC synaptic transmission than previously recognized.
文摘Tinnitus:the hearing of a sound that has not been produced by any external or internal source,is a rather heterogeneous hearing disorder.Background/Objectives:Hearing loss has been shown to be the main risk factor for tinnitus while emotional disorders are risk factors for developing intrusive or bothersome tinnitus.Moreover,aging has also been identified as another risk factor.The aim of this paper was to analyse the correlation between hearing loss,age and tinnitus severity in a cohort of 610 tinnitus sufferers.Methods:Age,audiometric(hearing condition)and tinnitus(time duration and severity)data were assessed and analysed for all subjects just after recruiting(baseline).Furthermore,the average hearing loss(HL)curves of the participants for age groups were compared to these with the corresponding Age Related HL(ARHL).Results:For most of the age groups,the measured HL curves exceeded in 10-20 dB those of the ARHL.The average age of tinnitus onset(age minus tinnitus duration)was found to be 44-46 years in both men and women.Weak correlation between audiometric feature and tinnitus distress was observed.Conclusions:Hearing loss has been shown to be a clear risk factor for triggering tinnitus(86%of participants were hearing impaired).In this cohort,average measures of hearing loss showed,at most,weak associations with tinnitus-related distress,suggesting that non-audiological factors may play a predominant role.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82471166 and 82071040)the Medical-Engineering Interdisciplinary Research Foundation of Shanghai Jiao Tong University(YG2025QNB28)the Basic Science Research Foundation of Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital(ynms202302).
文摘Cisplatin is a widely-used chemotherapeutic agent,but its dose-limiting ototoxicity often results in irreversible hearing loss.The pathogenesis involves oxidative stress,apoptosis,DNA damage,and inflammatory responses,yet effective preventive strategies remain limited.Here,we demonstrate that magnesium hydride(MgH_(2)),a hydrogen-releasing compound,provides robust protection against cisplatin-induced hearing loss.Our results showed that MgH_(2)protected auditory function and preserved cochlear hair cells in vivo.Furthermore,it significantly attenuated cisplatin-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in cultured HEI-OC1(House Ear Institute-Organ of Corti 1)cells and cochlear explants.Notably,MgH_(2)suppressed NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3(NLRP3)-mediated inflammatory cascades,thereby limiting downstream inflammatory damage.These findings revealed that MgH_(2)alleviated cisplatin-induced hearing loss through integrated antioxidant,anti-inflammatory,and anti-apoptotic pathways,with NLRP3 identified as a critical regulatory molecule.Collectively,our study provides compelling evidence for MgH_(2)as a potential therapeutic candidate for the prevention of cisplatin-induced hearing loss.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82271159,82425018,82071049,81830029,82192860,81922018,82201283,82101219,and 82192861)Shanghai Clinical Medical Research Center for Otolaryngology Diseases(20MC1920200)the STI2030-Major Projects(2022ZD0205400).
文摘Cochlear hair cell(HC)damage is a primary cause of sensorineural hearing loss.In this study,we performed metabolomic profiling of cochlear sensory epithelium following neomycin-induced HC injury and identified elevated arginine metabolism as a key metabolic characteristic of damaged HCs.Using a highly sensitive and specific biosensor,we confirmed that injury induced an increase in arginine levels within cochlear HCs.By manipulating the levels of arginine and its downstream metabolites,we discovered that unmetabolized arginine exerts a strong protective effect on cochlear HCs,independent of its downstream metabolites,such as nitric oxide.Furthermore,integrated metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses revealed that arginine plays a critical role in reprogramming phospholipid metabolism.Arginine supplementation enhanced membrane phospholipid saturation through the Lands cycle and de novo lipogenesis,and protected HCs from phospholipid peroxidation-induced membrane damage and subsequent cell death.Notably,arginine supplementation protected hearing from both noise-and aminoglycoside-induced injury in mice.These findings underscore the role of unmetabolized arginine in modulating phospholipid metabolism and preventing membrane damage in cochlear HCs,highlighting that targeting phospholipid metabolism is an effective hearing protection strategy.
基金supported by the Scientific and Innovative Action Plan of Shanghai(CN)(22Y11902000)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82371144 and 82201273)+2 种基金the Cross-Disciplinary Research Fund of Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital,Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine(JYJC202231)the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases(14DZ2260300)We extend our gratitude to Prof.Hao Wu and the Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine on Ear and Nose Diseases for providing essential resources and laboratory facilities,and to Prof.Lei Song and Prof.Zhiyong Liu for valuable insights and guidance.
文摘Circadian sensitivity significantly influences the severity of noise-induced hearing loss(NIHL),but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear.Here,we applied single-cell RNA sequencing to 97,043 cochlear cells,identifying macrophages as the primary immune responders to acoustic trauma,with a notable increase in their proportion in the cochlea.Immunofluorescence confirmed significant recruitment and activation of cochlear macrophages following noise exposure,while in vivo macrophage depletion resulted in the recovery of hearing.Furthermore,analyses of differentially-expressed genes and pathways revealed pronounced activation of NLRP3 inflammasome signaling in macrophages during night-time noise exposure.Measurements of elevated IL-1βand IL-18 expression in cochlear macrophages by multiplex immunohistochemistry correlated with heightened inflammation in the night-time exposure group.These findings were further confirmed by the administration of the selective NLRP3 inhibitor CY-09,which mitigated inflammasome activation,preserved synaptic integrity,and protect against hearing loss.In conclusion,our findings underscore the role of macrophage-driven NLRP3 inflammasome activation in mediating circadian variations in cochlear damage,offering a potential therapeutic target for mitigating NIHL.
文摘Background:Early Hearing Detection and Intervention(EHDI)plays a critical role in improving language,cognitive,and socio-emotional outcomes for infants with hearing loss.In Nigeria,however,EHDI implementation remains limited by fragmented service delivery,uneven technological capacity,and sociocultural factors that delay timely diagnosis.This study explored the perspectives of paediatric audiologists and parents to provide a comprehensive understanding of the opportunities and challenges influencing early hearing care across diverse Nigerian settings.Methods:A mixed-methods design was employed across audiology facilities selected systematically from four Nigerian geopolitical zones.Twenty-five paediatric audiologists and twenty-three parents of children with congenital hearing loss participated.Quantitative data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing awareness,diagnostic access,and intervention experiences.Qualitative data were obtained through semi-structured interviews and two focus group discussions.Thematic analysis followed Braun and Clarke's six-step framework,with dual coding,external auditing,and member validation to enhance credibility.Results:Quantitative findings demonstrated broad agreement on the diagnostic value of otoacoustic emissions(OAEs)and automated auditory brainstem responses(AABRs),the developmental benefits of early intervention,and the importance of active parental involvement.However,respondents identified persistent barriers including high costs of screening and therapy,poor public awareness of early hearing loss symptoms,and a critical shortage of trained personnel,and unequal distribution of diagnostic tools,particularly in rural and northern regions.Thematic analysis further underscored disparities in diagnostic capacity,sociocultural interpretations of deafness that delay clinical consultation,and economic constraints that hinder continuity of care.While families who accessed early intervention reported improved communication,social engagement,and learning readiness in their children,systemic gaps continue to limit widespread success.Conclusions:Despite growing technological capacity and awareness of EHDI benefits,significant structural,financial,and sociocultural challenges continue to impede timely diagnosis and intervention in Nigeria.Strengthening national policies,ensuring equitable distribution of diagnostic tools,expanding professional training,subsidising services,implementing culturally sensitive awareness campaigns and integration of Universal Newborn Hearing Screening into routine postnatal care are essential to improving outcomes for deaf infants.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.81800919(to YX),82171140(to PW)the International Cooperation and Exchange of the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.82020108008(to HS),81720108010(to SY).
文摘Aminoglycosides are a widely used class of antibacterials renowned for their effectiveness and broad antimicrobial spectrum.However,their use leads to irreversible hearing damage by causing apoptosis of hair cells as their direct target.In addition,the hearing damage caused by aminoglycosides involves damage of spiral ganglion neurons upon exposure.To investigate the mechanisms underlying spiral ganglion neuron degeneration induced by aminoglycosides,we used a C57BL/6J mouse model treated with kanamycin.We found that the mice exhibited auditory deficits following the acute loss of outer hair cells.Spiral ganglion neurons displayed hallmarks of pyroptosis and exhibited progressive degeneration over time.Transcriptomic profiling of these neurons showed significant upregulation of genes associated with inflammation and immune response,particularly those related to the NLRP3 inflammasome.Activation of the canonical pyroptotic pathway in spiral ganglion neurons was observed,accompanied by infiltration of macrophages and the release of proinflammatory cytokines.Pharmacological intervention targeting NLRP3 using Mcc950 and genetic intervention using NLRP3 knockout ameliorated spiral ganglion neuron degeneration in the injury model.These findings suggest that NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis plays a role in aminoglycoside-induced spiral ganglion neuron degeneration.Inhibition of this pathway may offer a potential therapeutic strategy for treating sensorineural hearing loss by reducing spiral ganglion neuron degeneration.
文摘This editorial critically evaluates the application of foot reflexology as a treatment for sensorineural hearing loss(SNHL)in infants,as proposed in a case report published in the World of Clinical Cases.SNHL is a condition characterized by damage to the cochlea or the neural pathways that transmit auditory information to the brain.The etiology of SNHL is often complex,involving genetic mutations,prenatal factors,or perinatal insults.Reflexology,an alternative therapy involving the application of pressure to specific points on the feet,is based on the hypothesis that these points correspond to different organs and systems in the body,including the auditory system.However,the biological plausibility and clinical efficacy of foot reflexology in addressing SNHL lack empirical support.This editorial examines the pathophysiology of SNHL,assesses the clinical claims of reflexology practitioners,and emphasizes the necessity of evidence-based approaches in treating infant hearing loss.While complementary therapies may provide ancillary benefits,they should not supplant validated medical treatments in managing SNHL in infants.Further research is needed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of foot reflexology and other alternative therapies in pediatric audiology.
基金support from the UCL GRS/ORS scholarshipUCL Fellowship Incubator Award+9 种基金supported by the NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre(NIHR203312)funded by the Royal National Institute for Deaf People(RNID,G100138)funded by the Rosetrees Trust Enterprise Fellowship(EF2020100099)RNID Flexigrant(F112)Wellcome Trust Developing Concept Fund(RG93172/BANCE/40181)by the Evelyn Trustfunded by the Woolf Fisher Trust,New Zealandthe Cambridge Commonwealth,European,&International Trustby Trinity CollegeUniversity of Cambridge。
文摘The cochlea is one of the most complex organs in the human body,exhibiting a complex interplay of characteristics in acoustic,mechanical,electrical,and biological functions.Functional cochlea models are an essential platform for studying hearing mechanics and are crucial for developing next-generation auditory prostheses and artificial hearing systems for sensorineural hearing restoration.Recent advances in additive manufacturing,organ-on-a-chip models,drug delivery platforms,and artificial intelligence have provided valuable insights into how to manufacture artificial cochlea models that more accurately replicate the complex anatomy and physiology of the inner ear.This paper reviews recent advancements in the applications of advanced manufacturing techniques in reproducing the physical,biological,and intelligent functions of the cochlea.It also outlines the current challenges to developing mechanically,electrically,and anatomically accurate functional models of the inner ear.Finally,this review identifies the major requirements and outlook for impactful research in this field going forward.Through interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation,these functional cochlea models are poised to drive significant advancements in hearing treatments,and ultimately enhance the quality of life for individuals with hearing loss.
文摘Background Sudden sensorineural hearing loss(SSNHL)is a rapid condition of hearing impairment,typically occurring over 72 hours and affecting the inner ear or auditory nerve pathways.The etiology of SSNHL remains largely idiopathic,with potential causes including viral infections,vascular occlusions,and autoimmune disorders.Traditional treatment primarily involves systemic corticosteroids,but their efficacy is inconsistent,leading to exploring alternative and adjunctive therapies such as intratympanic steroid(ITS)injections.Objective This Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis intends to determine the effectiveness of ITS injections as an initial treatment,combined therapy,or salvage treatment for SSNHL compared to systemic steroids alone.Methods An inclusive study was performed through the PubMed,Scopus,Web of Science,and Cochrane Library databases,encompassing publications published from 2015 to 2024.Case-control studies,cohort studies,randomized controlled trials(RCTs),and systematic reviews were included.Two separate reviewers read the studies and extracted data on steroid administration methods,study outcomes,and risk of bias(ROB)using the Cochrane Collaboration Tool and RevMan 5.4.Results The review included 12 studies with varied designs,including prospective RCTs,systematic reviews,and retrospective analyses.Combined ITS and systemic steroid therapy showed superior hearing recovery compared to systemic steroids alone in several studies.ITS alone demonstrated variable efficacy,with some studies indicating benefits,particularly as a salvage therapy.ROB assessment revealed variability in methodological rigor,with studies like those of Li&Ding et al.(2020)and Devantier et al.(2022)showing low risk,while others exhibited higher risks,particularly in random sequence generation and allocation concealment.Conclusion The findings suggest that ITS injections,particularly when combined with systemic steroids,can enhance hearing recovery in SSNHL patients.However,variability in study outcomes and methodological quality underscores the need for standardized protocols and further high-quality RCTs.This analysis underscores the prospective advantages of ITS therapy while stressing the need for stringent study designs to enhance SSNHL treatment methodologies.
文摘Objectives:Sudden sensorineural hearing loss(SSNHL)is a sudden onset condition of unknown etiology,often accompanied by tinnitus and vertigo,significantly affecting patients'quality of life.While some individuals experience spontaneous recovery,the unpredictability of treatment outcomes and potential complications pose clinical challenges.Recent studies suggest a potential link between thyroid hormone levels-particularly free triiodothyronine(FT3)and thyroid-stimulating hormone(TSH)-and both the pathogenesis and prognosis of SSNHL.However,the precise mechanisms remain unclear.This study aims to investigate the correlation between thyroid hormone abnormalities and hearing recovery in SSNHL patients,providing insights to enhance diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.Methods:This prospective observational study included 66 SSNHL patients admitted to the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University between April 2024 and February 2025.Serum TSH and FT3 levels were measured using chemiluminescence immunoassay,while hearing function was evaluated through pure-tone audiometry following standard guidelines.The“posttreatment hearing gap(PTHG)”was introduced as a quantitative measure of treatment efficacy.All patients received comprehensive treatment,including glucocorticoid therapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy,and were classified into effective and ineffective groups based on hearing recovery outcomes.Results:No significant differences in gender or comorbidities(tinnitus,ear fullness,dizziness)were observed between the abnormal thyroid function group(n=45)and the normal thyroid function group(n=21)(all p>0.05).Similarly,initial TSH and FT3 levels did not differ significantly among patients with varying degrees of hearing impairment(mild,moderate,severe)(p>0.05).However,during treatment,ΔFT3 demonstrated a significant negative correlation with PTHG(r=-0.739,p=0.002),suggesting that a greater increase inΔFT3 is associated with improved hearing recovery.Additionally,TSH levels showed a significant positive correlation withΔFT3(p<0.05).Conclusions:Abnormal thyroid function in SSNHL patients was not associated with the severity of hearing loss.However,dynamic changes in FT3 during treatment showed a significant correlation with therapeutic efficacy,suggesting that monitoringΔFT3 may have clinical value in prognostic assessment.Nonetheless,this study had a limited sample size,and the potential influence of hormone therapy on thyroid function was not accounted for.Therefore,the role of thyroid hormones in SSNHL warrants further validation through large-scale prospective studies and mechanistic investigations.
文摘Objective: To study the relationship between cortical auditory evoked potential (CAEP) thresholds and behavioral thresholds in pediatric populations with sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). Methods: Fifteen children (mean age 6.8 years) with bilateral SNHL underwent behavioral pure-tone audiometry and CAEP testing at 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 kHz. CAEP thresholds were determined using tone bursts, and correlations between CAEP and pure-tone thresholds were analyzed using Pearson correlation and t-tests. Results: A strong positive correlation was observed between P1 thresholds and behavioral thresholds across all test frequencies: 0.5 kHz (r = 0.765, p Conclusion: The strong correlation between P1 and behavioral thresholds demonstrates the reliability of CAEP testing for estimating auditory thresholds in children. These findings support the use of CAEP testing as a reliable objective tool for threshold estimation, particularly in cases where behavioral responses cannot be reliably obtained. When adjusted with frequency-specific correction values, CAEP testing provides a reliable method for assessing hearing thresholds in pediatric populations.
基金supported by the Air Force Research Laboratory under Contract No.FA8650-12-C-6358
文摘The objectives of this review were to 1)summarize the available evidence on the impact of hearing loss on quality of life(QOL)among U.S.active-duty service members,2)describe the QOL instruments that have been used to quantify the impact of hearing loss on quality of life,3)examine national population-level secondary databases and report on their utility for studying the impact of hearing loss on QOL among active-duty service members,and 4)provide recommendations for future studies that seek to quantify the impact of hearing loss in this population.There is a lack of literature that addresses the intersection of hearing impairment,the military population,and quality of life measures.For audiological research,U.S.military personnel offer a unique research population,as they are exposed to noise levels and blast environments that are highly unusual in civilian work settings and can serve as a model population for studying the impact on QOL associated with these conditions.This review recommends conducting a study on the active-duty service member population using a measurement instrument suitable for determining decreases in QOL specifically due to hearing loss.
基金supported by the grants of the National Key Research and Development Program of China(Grant No.2023YFC2508400)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.82350005).
文摘Purpose To investigate the perinatal risk factors for conductive hearing loss(CHL)in infancy and develop an initial prediction model to facilitate accurate diagnosis and early detection of CHL.Method This retrospective study utilized data from the Newborn Cohort Study of Hearing Loss(ChiCTR2100049765).Infants who underwent diagnostic audiological assessments at our hospital between January 2003 and June 2024 were included.Data analysis was conducted using R(version 4.4.1)to construct an initial prediction model for CHL in infancy,applying the LASSO regression technique.Results A total of 661 infants(1322 ears)were included,with 1253 ears in the normal hearing group and 69 ears in the CHL group.Statistically significant differences were observed between the groups in the following factors:parent-reported infant response to sound,craniofacial deformities,neonatal hemolysis,jaundice treatment,and neonatal hypoglycemia.A multivariate prediction model and nomogram for CHL in infancy were developed and validated,achieving an accuracy of 92.5%and a specificity of 91.3%.Conclusions This study identified key risk factors for CHL in infancy and developed a preliminary predictive model,improving the diagnostic accuracy for CHL.Improved diagnostic precision can decrease misdiagnoses,reduce delays in treatment,and limit unnecessary antimicrobial prescriptions for infants.
文摘Hearing loss is the third leading cause of human disability.Age-related hearing loss,one type of acquired sensorineural hearing loss,is largely responsible for this escalating global health burden.Noise-induced,ototoxic,and idiopathic sudden sensorineural are other less common types of acquired hearing loss.The etiology of these conditions is complex and multi-fa ctorial involving an interplay of genetic and environmental factors.Oxidative stress has recently been proposed as a likely linking cause in most types of acquired sensorineural hearing loss.Short non-coding RNA sequences known as microRNAs(miRNAs)have increasingly been shown to play a role in cellular hypoxia and oxidative stress responses including promoting an apoptotic response.Sensory hair cell death is a central histopathological finding in sensorineural hearing loss.As these cells do not regenerate in humans,it underlies the irreversibility of human age-related hearing loss.Ovid EMBASE,Ovid MEDLINE,Web of Science Core Collection,and ClinicalTrials.gov databases over the period August 1,2018 to July 31,2023 were searched with"hearing loss,""hypoxamiRs,""hypoxia,""microRNAs,""ischemia,"and"oxidative stress"text words for English language primary study publications or registered clinical trials.Registe red clinical trials known to the senior author we re also assessed.A total of 222studies were thus identified.After excluding duplicates,editorials,retra ctions,secondary research studies,and non-English language articles,39 primary studies and clinical trials underwent full-text screening.This resulted in 11 animal,in vitro,and/or human subject journal articles and 8 registered clinical trial database entries which form the basis of this narrative review.MiRNAs miR-34a and miR-29b levels increase with age in mice.These miRNAs were demonstrated in human neuroblastoma and murine cochlear cell lines to target Sirtuin 1/peroxisome proliferato r-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1-alpha(SIRT1/P GC-1α),SIRT1p53,and SIRT1/hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha signaling pathways resulting in increased apoptosis.Furthermore,hypoxia and oxidative stress had a similar adve rse apoptotic effect,which was inhibited by resve ratrol and a myocardial inhibitorassociated transcript,a miR-29b competing endogenous mRNA.Gentamicin reduced miR-182-5p levels and increased cochlear oxidative stress and cell death in mice-an effect that was corrected by inner ear stem cell-derived exosomes.There is ongoing work seeking to determine if these findings can be effectively translated to humans.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China,No.2022YFC2402701(to WC)Key International(Regional)Joint Research Program of the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81820108009(to SY)+5 种基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.81970890(to WC)and 82371148(to WG)Fujian Provincial Healthcare Young and Middle-aged Backbone Talent Training Project,No.2023GGA035(to XC)Spring City Planthe High-level Talent Promotion and Training Project of Kunming,No.2022SCP001(to SY)the Natural Science Foundation of Hainan Province of China,No.824MS052(to XS)the Sixth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital Innovation Cultivation,No.CXPY202116(to LX)。
文摘Noise-induced hearing loss is the primary non-genetic factor contributing to auditory dysfunction.However,there are currently no effective pharmacological interventions for patients with noise-induced hearing loss.Here,we present evidence suggesting that the lysine-specific demethylase 1 inhibitor–tranylcypromine is an otoprotective agent that could be used to treat noise-induced hearing loss,and elucidate its underlying regulatory mechanisms.We established a mouse model of permanent threshold shift hearing loss by exposing the mice to white broadband noise at a sound pressure level of 120 d B for 4 hours.We found that tranylcypromine treatment led to the upregulation of Sestrin2(SESN2)and activation of the autophagy markers light chain 3B and lysosome-associated membrane glycoprotein 1 in the cochleae of mice treated with tranylcypromine.The noise exposure group treated with tranylcypromine showed significantly lower average auditory brainstem response hearing thresholds at click,4,8,and 16 k Hz frequencies compared with the noise exposure group treated with saline.These findings indicate that tranylcypromine treatment resulted in increased SESN2,light chain 3B,and lysosome-associated membrane glycoprotein 1 expression after noise exposure,leading to a reduction in levels of 4-hydroxynonenal and cleaved caspase-3,thereby reducing noise-induced hair cell loss.Additionally,immunoblot analysis demonstrated that treatment with tranylcypromine upregulated SESN2 expression via the autophagy pathway.Tranylcypromine treatment also reduced the production of NOD-like receptor family pyrin domaincontaining 3(NLRP3)production.In conclusion,our results showed that tranylcypromine treatment ameliorated cochlear inflammation by promoting the expression of SESN2,which induced autophagy,thereby restricting NLRP3-related inflammasome signaling,alleviating cochlear hair cell loss,and protecting hearing function.These findings suggest that inhibiting lysine-specific demethylase 1 is a potential therapeutic strategy for preventing hair cell loss and noise-induced hearing loss.
基金Supported by the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities,No.2022CDJYGRH-004.
文摘Foot reflexology is a non-invasive and safe complementary therapy that works by massaging the reflex zones of the feet and exerts systemic or whole-body regulation through meridian nerve conduction.This therapy is commonly used in the treatment of various conditions such as autism and Parkinson's disease.However,there is limited reporting on the use of foot reflexology therapy for infants with sensorineural hearing loss(SNHL).Currently,there is no definitive conclusion on how foot reflexology therapy can influence hearing.This editorial holds some guiding significance regarding this clinical issue.The aim is to present physiological evidence of how foot reflexology therapy can impact infants with SNHL,thereby enhancing clinician’s awareness of foot reflexology in treating infants with SNHL.
文摘Early intervention for sensorineural hearing loss(SNHL)in childhood is crucial for auditory and language development.In recent years,innovative auditory stimulation techniques and speech therapy strategies,such as middle ear implants,cochlear implants,auditory brainstem implants,and midbrain implants,have provided new avenues for improving patient outcomes.Additionally,basic research advancements in cell reprogramming and regeneration,stem cell therapy,and targeted drug delivery offer promising approaches to meet the individualized needs of children with SNHL.However,many challenges and unresolved issues remain in the treatment of SNHL.This article comments on the case report,which describes a female pediatric patient with SNHL who underwent foot reflexology which led to the normalization of hearing thresholds.Reflexology is considered to have potential benefits in physical rehabilitation,but its efficacy in hearing restoration requires further scientific validation through rigorous clinical trials and large-scale prospective studies.
