Translational Research
1:30 - 2:30 March 7th
Evidence of a Genetic Component in Otitis Media
Margaretha Casselbrant, M.D., Ph.D.
Department of Pediatric Otolaryngology
Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
There is significant evidence from epidemiologic, anatomic, physiologic
and immunologic studies that the susceptibility to recurrent and
persistent episodes of otitis media (OM), to a large extent, is genetically
determined. Recent twin studies have confirmed these findings. The
genetics of OM are most likely complex, i.e., many genes are probably
contributing to the overall phenotype. Once susceptibility genes
have been identified, it may be possible to develop molecular diagnostic
assays that could identify the child at high risk for OM and also
develop focused treatments.
10:30 - 11:30 March 8th
Improving the Neural Representation of
the
Stimulus Fine Temporal Structure in Cochlear Implants
Bertrand Delgutte, Ph.D.
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Harvard University, Boston, MA
Any sound waveform can be factored into the product of a slowly-varying
envelope and a rapidly-varying fine time structure. While speech
comprehension is possible based on envelope information alone, pitch
perception and localization of low-frequency sounds depend on the
fine structure. Current processors for cochlear implants either discard
the fine structure altogether or poorly code it in neural discharges.
We will present electrophysiological data supporting a scheme proposed
by Jay Rubinstein for improving the representation of fine structure
information in the temporal discharge patterns of auditory nerve
fibers in implanted ears.
8:00 - 9:00 March 9th
Speech Encoding and Neural Plasticity: Ramifications
for Learning Problems
Nina Kraus, Ph.D.
Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
Disrupted timing of physiologic encoding of speech sounds can contribute
to learning and reading problems. Such abnormal encoding has been
observed at the auditory brainstem and cortex. Auditory perceptual
training (e.g. commercial computer-based training programs) and acoustic
cue enhancement (clear speech) have been shown to improve perceptual
skills and underlying physiology. Animal models further elucidate
issues of speech sound encoding. Supported by NIH R01 DC01510.
1:30 - 2:30 March 9th
The Aging Ear: From the Cochlea to the Cortex
John H. Mills, Ph.D.
Dept. of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
Results from humans and animals suggest there are two major alterations
of the auditory periphery which can account for much of the auditory
dysfunction associated with aging. One is degeneration of the stria
vascularis resulting in decreases in the endocochlear potential of
scala media. The second is loss and shrinkage of spiral ganglion
cells of the auditory nerve, even in the presence of normal outer
and inner hair cells. Age-related changes in evoked potentials arising
from the brainstem to the cortex are highly variable and can occur
independently of hearing loss. Work supported by the NIH.
