scholarly journals A Biomechanical Model of the Inner Ear: Numerical Simulation of the Caloric Test

2013 ◽  
Vol 2013 ◽  
pp. 1-9 ◽  
Author(s):  
Shuang Shen ◽  
Yingxi Liu ◽  
Xiuzhen Sun ◽  
Wei Zhao ◽  
Yingfeng Su ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Inner Ear ◽  
Semicircular Canals ◽  
Biomechanical Model ◽  
Substantial Improvement ◽  
Caloric Test ◽  
Horizontal Canal ◽  
Irrigation Time ◽  
Endolymph Flow ◽  
Caloric Response ◽  
To Receive

Whether two vertical semicircular canals can receive thermal stimuli remains controversial. This study examined the caloric response in the three semicircular canals to the clinical hot caloric test using the finite element method. The results of the developed model showed the horizontal canal (HC) cupula maximally deflected to the utricle side by approximately 3 μm during the hot supine test. The anterior canal cupula began to receive the caloric stimuli about 20 s after the HC cupula, and it maximally deflected to the canal side by 0.55 μm. The posterior canal cupula did not receive caloric stimuli until approximately 40 s after the HC cupula, and it maximally deflected to the canal side by 0.34 μm. Although the endolymph flow and the cupular deformation change with respect to the head position during the test, the supine test ensures the maximal caloric response in the HC, but no substantial improvement for the responses of the two vertical canals was observed. In conclusion, while the usual supine test is the optimum test for evaluating the functions of the inner ear, more irrigation time is needed in order to effectively clinically examine the vertical canals.

Temperature Characteristics of Squirrel Monkey Horizontal Semicircular Canals during Caloric Irrigation

1981 ◽  
Vol 89 (4) ◽  
pp. 678-684 ◽  
Author(s):  
Chester Wilpizeski
Keyword(s):  
Body Temperature ◽  
Temporal Bone ◽  
Semicircular Canals ◽  
Squirrel Monkeys ◽  
Caloric Test ◽  
Horizontal Canal ◽  
Caloric Irrigation ◽  
Experimental Animals ◽  
Thermal Changes ◽  
Selection Of

Current assumptions concerning body temperature of experimental animals, particularly as it relates to the selection of caloric test stimuli, are likely to be inaccurate guesses. Although the temporal bone of squirrel monkeys attenuates irrigation temperature by a factor of nearly 10, there is a high correlation between thermal changes in inner ear fluid and irrigation values. In this study, nystagmus (defined by electronystagmographic thresholds) occurred when horizontal canal temperatures deviated from resting temperature by ±0.14 C.

Inner Ear Damage by Firecracker Trauma

2018 ◽  
Vol 23 (2) ◽  
pp. 116-121 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yu-Hao Liao ◽  
Yi-Ho Young
Keyword(s):  
Inner Ear ◽  
Noise Exposure ◽  
Semicircular Canals ◽  
Caloric Test ◽  
Noise Levels ◽  
Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potential ◽  
High Frequencies ◽  
Blast Exposure ◽  
Vestibular Damage ◽  
Inner Ear Damage

Firecrackers are still popular among the general public of various populations worldwide. This study investigated inner ear damage in patients with firecracker trauma and analyzed noise levels in 6 kinds of commercially available firecrackers. During the past 20 years, we have experienced 30 patients with firecracker trauma. An inner ear test battery comprising audiometry, cervical and ocular vestibular-evoked myogenic potential (cVEMP and oVEMP) tests and a caloric test was performed. The real-time noise levels were measured outdoors at a distance of 2, 4 and 6 m away from a lighting firecracker to mimic a noise event. Mean hearing levels at high frequencies (4,000 and 8,000 Hz) were significantly higher than those at the low and middle frequencies, indicating that firecrackers mostly cause high-tone hearing loss. For the vestibular damage, abnormality percentages were higher in the results of cVEMP (80%) and oVEMP (60%) tests, but not in the caloric test (8%). In conclusion, most firecrackers exhibited noise levels > 110 dB SPL even at a distance of 6 m. This blast injury simultaneously damaged the cochlea, saccule and utricle, but spared the semicircular canals, indicating that blast exposure potentiates the adverse effect of noise exposure on both cochlear and vestibular partitions.

Rationale for heparin treatment of colon cancer

2000 ◽  
Vol 20 (03) ◽  
pp. 136-142 ◽  
Author(s):  
D. L. Ornstein ◽  
L. R. Zacharski
Keyword(s):  
Clinical Trials ◽  
Substantial Improvement ◽  
Patients With Cancer ◽  
Coagulation Mechanism ◽  
Anticoagulant Drug ◽  
Cancer Outcome ◽  
Meta Analyses ◽  
Improvement In Survival ◽  
Spectrum Of Patients ◽  
To Receive

SummaryIt is widely known that the systemic blood coagulation mechanism is often activated in malignancy, leading to an increased incidence of vascular thromboses in patients with cancer. It is not widely appreciated, however, that products of the coagulation mechanism may also support tumor growth and dissemination. Interest in this approach to cancer therapy has surged recently because of mounting evidence that the familiar anticoagulant drug, heparin, may impede tumor progression. Heparin has the capacity to modify angiogenesis, growth factor and protease activity, immune function, cell proliferation and gene expression in ways that may block malignant dissemination. Clinical trials in which heparin has been administered to a broad spectrum of patients to prevent or treat thrombosis have unexpectedly shown improvement in survival in the subset of patients with malignancy entered to these studies. Meta-analyses of clinical trials comparing unfractionated (UF) versus low molecular weight (LMW) heparin treating venous thromboembolism suggest that there may be substantial improvement in cancer outcome in patients with malignancy randomized to receive LMW heparin. These findings provide a rationale for definitive clinical trials of LMW heparin in cancer, and the results of several such studies that are currently underway are awaited with interest.

scholarly journals Gene therapy via canalostomy approach preserves auditory and vestibular functions in a mouse model of Jervell and Lange-Nielsen syndrome type 2

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Xuewen Wu ◽  
Li Zhang ◽  
Yihui Li ◽  
Wenjuan Zhang ◽  
Jianjun Wang ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Gene Therapy ◽  
Mouse Model ◽  
Inner Ear ◽  
Viral Vectors ◽  
Survival Rates ◽  
Semicircular Canals ◽  
Dependent Manner ◽  
Syndrome Type ◽  
Dose Dependent

AbstractMutations in voltage-gated potassium channel KCNE1 cause Jervell and Lange-Nielsen syndrome type 2 (JLNS2), resulting in congenital deafness and vestibular dysfunction. We conducted gene therapy by injecting viral vectors using the canalostomy approach in Kcne1−/− mice to treat both the hearing and vestibular symptoms. Results showed early treatment prevented collapse of the Reissner’s membrane and vestibular wall, retained the normal size of the semicircular canals, and prevented the degeneration of inner ear cells. In a dose-dependent manner, the treatment preserved auditory (16 out of 20 mice) and vestibular (20/20) functions in mice treated with the high-dosage for at least five months. In the low-dosage group, a subgroup of mice (13/20) showed improvements only in the vestibular functions. Results supported that highly efficient transduction is one of the key factors for achieving the efficacy and maintaining the long-term therapeutic effect. Secondary outcomes of treatment included improved birth and litter survival rates. Our results demonstrated that gene therapy via the canalostomy approach, which has been considered to be one of the more feasible delivery methods for human inner ear gene therapy, preserved auditory and vestibular functions in a dose-dependent manner in a mouse model of JLNS2.

Nkx5-1 controls semicircular canal formation in the mouse inner ear

Development ◽  
1998 ◽  
Vol 125 (1) ◽  
pp. 33-39 ◽  
Author(s):  
T. Hadrys ◽  
T. Braun ◽  
S. Rinkwitz-Brandt ◽  
H.H. Arnold ◽  
E. Bober
Keyword(s):  
Homologous Recombination ◽  
Inner Ear ◽  
Homeobox Gene ◽  
Semicircular Canals ◽  
Otic Vesicle ◽  
Null Mutation ◽  
Complex Structures ◽  
Vestibular Organ ◽  
Inner Ear Development ◽  
Vestibular Organs

The inner ear develops from the otic vesicle, a one-cell-thick epithelium, which eventually transforms into highly complex structures including the sensory organs for balance (vestibulum) and hearing (cochlea). Several mouse inner ear mutations with hearing and balance defects have been described but for most the underlying genes have not been identified, for example, the genes controlling the development of the vestibular organs. Here, we report the inactivation of the homeobox gene, Nkx5-1, by homologous recombination in mice. This gene is expressed in vestibular structures throughout inner ear development. Mice carrying the Nkx5-1 null mutation exhibit behavioural abnormalities that resemble the typical hyperactivity and circling movements of the shaker/waltzer type mutants. The balance defect correlates with severe malformations of the vestibular organ in Nkx5-1(−/−) mutants, which fail to develop the semicircular canals. Nkx5-1 is the first ear-specific molecule identified to play a crucial role in the formation of the mammalian vestibular system.

Mutations affecting development of the zebrafish inner ear and lateral line

Development ◽  
1996 ◽  
Vol 123 (1) ◽  
pp. 241-254 ◽  
Author(s):  
T.T. Whitfield ◽  
M. Granato ◽  
F.J. van Eeden ◽  
U. Schach ◽  
M. Brand ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Inner Ear ◽  
Lateral Line ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Sensory System ◽  
Semicircular Canals ◽  
Abnormal Development ◽  
Pigment Cells ◽  
Otic Vesicle ◽  
In The Wild ◽  
Complementation Groups

Mutations giving rise to anatomical defects in the inner ear have been isolated in a large scale screen for mutations causing visible abnormalities in the zebrafish embryo (Haffter, P., Granato, M., Brand, M. et al. (1996) Development 123, 1–36). 58 mutants have been classified as having a primary ear phenotype; these fall into several phenotypic classes, affecting presence or size of the otoliths, size and shape of the otic vesicle and formation of the semicircular canals, and define at least 20 complementation groups. Mutations in seven genes cause loss of one or both otoliths, but do not appear to affect development of other structures within the ear. Mutations in seven genes affect morphology and patterning of the inner ear epithelium, including formation of the semicircular canals and, in some, development of sensory patches (maculae and cristae). Within this class, dog-eared mutants show abnormal development of semicircular canals and lack cristae within the ear, while in van gogh, semicircular canals fail to form altogether, resulting in a tiny otic vesicle containing a single sensory patch. Both these mutants show defects in the expression of homeobox genes within the otic vesicle. In a further class of mutants, ear size is affected while patterning appears to be relatively normal; mutations in three genes cause expansion of the otic vesicle, while in little ears and microtic, the ear is abnormally small, but still contains all five sensory patches, as in the wild type. Many of the ear and otolith mutants show an expected behavioural phenotype: embryos fail to balance correctly, and may swim on their sides, upside down, or in circles. Several mutants with similar balance defects have also been isolated that have no obvious structural ear defect, but that may include mutants with vestibular dysfunction of the inner ear (Granato, M., van Eeden, F. J. M., Schach, U. et al. (1996) Development, 123, 399–413,). Mutations in 19 genes causing primary defects in other structures also show an ear defect. In particular, ear phenotypes are often found in conjunction with defects of neural crest derivatives (pigment cells and/or cartilaginous elements of the jaw). At least one mutant, dog-eared, shows defects in both the ear and another placodally derived sensory system, the lateral line, while hypersensitive mutants have additional trunk lateral line organs.

The Semicircular Canals of the Inner Ear and the Pneumatization of the Temporal Bone

1986 ◽  
Vol 27 (3) ◽  
pp. 325-329
Author(s):  
C. Muren ◽  
H. Wilbrand
Keyword(s):  
Inner Ear ◽  
Temporal Bone ◽  
Semicircular Canals ◽  
Petrous Bone ◽  
General Outline ◽  
Size And Shape ◽  
Wide Range

In an investigation of 94 plastic casts of temporal bone specimens a wide range of variations both in the general outline of the pyramid and in the anatomy of its specific structures was found. Attempts were made to estimate the transverse and vertical dimensions of the petrous bone. Both the mastoid and the perilabyrinthine pneumatization correlated to the dimensions of some structures, but not to the size and shape of the semicircular canals. References

Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Inner Ear

1988 ◽  
Vol 99 (5) ◽  
pp. 494-504 ◽  
Author(s):  
Robert K. Jackler ◽  
William P. Dillon
Keyword(s):  
Magnetic Resonance Imaging ◽  
Computed Tomography ◽  
Magnetic Resonance ◽  
Inner Ear ◽  
Semicircular Canals ◽  
Resonance Imaging ◽  
High Resolution Computed Tomography ◽  
Membranous Labyrinth ◽  
Prosthetic Devices ◽  
Ear Malformations

The majority of temporal bone radiographic studies are obtained either for middle ear and mastoid disease or in the evaluation of retrocochlear pathology. With recent technologic advances, diagnostic imaging of the inner ear has developed an increasing role in the evaluation and management of diseases that affect the cochlea, semicircular canals, and the vestibular and cochlear aqueducts. High-resolution computed tomography (CT) provides excellent detail of the osseous labyrinth, whereas magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) generates images derived from the membranous labyrinth and its associated neural elements. Optimal techniques for obtaining high quality CT and MRI images of the normal and diseased inner ear are presented. CT has proved useful in the evaluation of inner ear malformations, cochlear otosclerosis, labyrinthine fistulization from cholesteatoma, translabyrinthine fractures, otic capsule osteodystrophies, in the assessment of cochlear patency before cochlear implantation, and in the localization of prosthetic devices such as stapes wires and cochlear implants. While MRI produces discernible images of the soft tissue and fluid components of the inner ear, it has yet to demonstrate any unique advantages in the evaluation of inner ear disease. However, MRI produces excellent and highly useful images of the audiovestibular and facial nerves, cerebellopontine angle, and brain.

Politzer’s Otology Clinic and the Discovery of the Caloric Test

2016 ◽  
Author(s):  
Robert W. Baloh
Keyword(s):  
Inner Ear ◽  
General Hospital ◽  
Surgical Training ◽  
Nobel Prize ◽  
Caloric Test ◽  
Vestibular Apparatus ◽  
University Of Vienna ◽  
Vienna General Hospital ◽  
Ear Canals ◽  
The University

Robert Bárány began his training in Adam Politzer’s Otology Clinic at the University of Vienna in October 1903 after completing his surgical training at the Vienna General Hospital. During his training, Bárány became friends with Gustav Alexander, who already had been offered a position in Politzer’s clinic. Alexander stimulated Bárány’s interest in the vestibular apparatus of the inner ear and was influential in helping Bárány obtain his appointment in Politzer’s clinic. It was well known in Politzer’s clinic that one had to be extremely careful regarding the temperature of the water used to irrigate the ear canals in removing cerumen, otherwise the patient would become dizzy. Bárány discovered the mechanism of this caloric reaction and eventually received the Nobel Prize in Medicine. Bárány’s findings were considered to be pivotal in clinical otology. His colleagues at the clinic were less magnanimous in their praise of Bárány’s accomplishments and questioned his integrity.

Reflections of Efferent Activity in Rotational Responses of Chinchilla Vestibular Afferents

2002 ◽  
Vol 88 (3) ◽  
pp. 1234-1244 ◽  
Author(s):  
Meir Plotnik ◽  
Vladimir Marlinski ◽  
Jay M. Goldberg
Keyword(s):  
Rotation Axis ◽  
Semicircular Canals ◽  
Horizontal Canal ◽  
Efferent System ◽  
Type Iii ◽  
Complete Section ◽  
Viiith Nerve ◽  
Rotation Plane ◽  
Excitatory Responses ◽  
Stimulation Of

To study presumed efferent-mediated responses, we determined if afferents responded to head rotations that stimulated semicircular canals other than the organ being innervated. To minimize stimulation of an afferent's own canal, its plane was placed nearly orthogonal to the rotation plane. Otolith units were tested in a horizontal head position with the ear placed near the rotation axis to minimize linear forces. Under these circumstances, angular-velocity trapezoids (2-s ramps, 2-s plateau) evoked excitatory responses for both rotation directions. These type III responses were considerably larger in decerebrate than in anesthetized preparations. In addition to their being exclusively excitatory, the responses resembled those obtained with electrical stimulation of efferent pathways in including per-stimulus and more prolonged post-stimulus components and in being larger in irregularly discharging than in regularly discharging units. Responses, which were not seen for rotations <80°/s, grew as velocity increased between 80 and 500°/s but were seldom larger than 20 spikes/s. Complete section of the VIIIth nerve abolished type III responses, leaving conventional afferent responses intact. To study the separate contributions of canals on the two sides, responses were compared when the labyrinths were intact and when the ipsilateral or contralateral horizontal canal was mechanically inactivated. Both sides contributed to the efferent-mediated responses. That afferents could be influenced from the contralateral labyrinth was confirmed with the use of unilateral galvanic currents. Following inactivation, excitatory responses were produced by rotations exciting or inhibiting the intact horizontal canal with the responses resulting from excitatory rotations being much larger. Such a response asymmetry is consistent with a semicircular-canal origin for the type III responses. A similar asymmetry was seen in the post-stimulus responses to contralateral cathodal (excitatory) and anodal (inhibitory) galvanic currents. We conclude that the efferent system receives a sufficiently powerful vestibular input from both the ipsilateral and contralateral labyrinths to affect afferent discharge.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document