搜索结果：Journal of the American Academy of Audiology

Background: The most important functions of the auditory system are monitoring the acoustic environment for signals of danger and oral/auditory communication using language. During the typical evaluation of the auditory system, only cursory attention is focused on the communication aspect of hearing that usually consists of one list of 25 monosyllabic words presented by monitored-live voice to each ear in quiet at a suprathreshold presentation level (e.g., 40-dB sensation level). The reason most often given for the limited study of the word-recognition ability is the time required to administer the test.Purpose: An adaptive software-controlled word-recognition protocol that provides word-recognition performances over a range of 40 to 60 dB was developed and a key assumption was validated. The assumption was that in an ascending presentation level paradigm, when a word is correctly recognized, it will be correctly recognized at the subsequent higher presentation levels. Clinically, the protocol will include a list of monosyllabic words at ≈40- to 80-dB hearing level (HL) in 10-dB increments that include the soft to loud speech range.Research Design: A quasi-experimental repeated measures design was used.Study Sample: Groups of 24 young adults (mean age = 24.2 years) with pure-tone thresholds of 250 to 6000 Hz at ≤15-dB HL and 8000 Hz at ≤20-dB HL participated in two experiments in which the VA-1 female speaker version of Northwestern University Auditory Test No. 6 was delivered by a speaker at 6- to 36-dB HL in 6-dB increments with unique randomization of each list presented.Data Collection and Analysis: During both experiments, a 50-word list was assigned to each ear, and both ears were tested at each level before the subsequent higher level was evaluated. After testing, 25-word list data were parsed from the alphabetized 50-word lists according to odd- and even-numbered words. During Experiment 1, 50 words were presented at each level. During Experiment 2, except at the lowest level, only the words that were incorrect at the previous lower presentation level were presented, with a cumulative percent correct used at each presentation level. A computer recorded several characteristics of the presentation/response cycle, including the correct/incorrect response input by the tester. Both the raw (actual) data and assumed data were analyzed using polynomial equations and measures of central tendency.Results: Experiment 1 revealed that the raw data and assumed data produced word-recognition functions that were identical for all practical purposes. Experiment 2 revealed that a version of the adaptive word-recognition protocol produced word-recognition functions that were essentially the same as the functions produced during Experiment 1. Both experiments revealed that the word-recognition threshold established for each word (that is, the lowest presentation level at which the word was recognized) ranged from 9.2-dB HL to 30.3-dB HL. There was a weak relation between the word-recognition thresholds and the root-mean-square amplitudes of the words.Conclusions: In Experiment 1, the close relation between the raw data and assumed data provided the supporting data for the assumption to be considered a presumption going forward. In Experiment 2, the adaptive protocol worked as intended and provided word-recognition functions comparable to the functions in Experiment 1. Both the underlying assumption of the adaptive protocol and the protocol itself must be documented for patients with sensorineural hearing loss.

Background: There is a need for more laboratory tests in the diagnosis of M&#xe9;ni&#xe8;re's disease (MD). Purpose: The adequacy of the findings of the video ocular counter-roll reflex (OCR) test to support the diagnosis of patients with unilateral MD in the nonattack period was investigated. Research Design: Hearing tests, ocular and cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential (VEMP), Dizziness Handicap Inventory, and video OCR tests were performed on 31 patients with unilateral MD and 30 healthy controls, and the findings were compared. Study Sample: There were 10 males and 21 females (51.22 &#xb1; 12.76&#x2009;years) in the MD group and 12 males and 18 females (46.43 &#xb1; 9.98) in the control group. Data Collection and Analysis: The significance of the difference between groups was analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test for continuous data and the chi-squared test for categorical data. OCR degrees in the MD group were analyzed using the Wilcoxon test. A correlation matrix and intraclass correlation coefficients were also calculated to analyze the test-retest reliability of OCR degrees with the participant's head tilted at 15, 30, and 40&#xb0;. Results: In the ocular VEMP test, the N1-P1 amplitudes of both ipsilesional (p < 0.001) and contralesional ears (p = 0.015) were significantly lower in the MD group than in the control group. In the cervical VEMP test, the P1-N1 amplitudes of the ipsilesional (p < 0.001) and the contralesional sides (p = 0.006) were significantly lower in the MD group than in the control group. The OCR degrees did not show a significant difference between the MD and control groups, except for the 30th-second OCR degree of the right eye when the head was tilted 30&#xb0; to the ipsilesional side (p = 0.031) and the 20th-second OCR degree of the right eye when the head was tilted 40&#xb0; to the ipsilesional side (p = 0.036). Conclusions: The video OCR (vOCR) test did not discriminate between the pathological and nonpathological ears in patients with unilateral MD during a nonattack period. Furthermore, the vOCR results did not discriminate between the patients with unilateral MD and the healthy controls. To obtain consistent vOCR degrees a head tilt of at least 30&#xb0; and a recording time of at least 40&#x2009;seconds may be required.

Evidence synthesis refers to structured literature reviews that follow established guidelines and are reproducible, such as systematic reviews, scoping reviews, and meta-analyses. The methodological expectations for evidence synthesis, and especially systematic reviews, have evolved and become more rigorous. This tutorial will provide information about new and emerging types of evidence synthesis, as well as an introduction to the updated standards for systematic reviews and meta-analysis. Tutorial. This paper gives a brief history of evidence synthesis, along with an overview of the current literature on best methods for various types of evidence synthesis appropriate for audiology research. A detailed description of current standards and methods in evidence synthesis is provided, as well as published examples of the various types of evidence synthesis research in audiology. Evidence synthesis methods are presented, along with information about the process and steps for choosing the most appropriate method based on research needs. The expectations and benefits of the different types of methodology are introduced. Although systematic reviews are highly recognized and used within the field, the quality of systematic reviews can vary greatly. Understanding the different types of evidence synthesis methodologies, deciding how to choose the appropriate method for the research question, and reviewing the recognized international standards for systematic reviews will enable professionals to produce higher-quality research that can be used to guide clinical practice. Given the contributions of evidence synthesis to evidence-based practice (e.g., clinical practice guidelines, systematic reviews, position statements, etc.), this tutorial provides readers with guidance and resources for clinician and/or researcher teams to begin an evidence synthesis project that follows best practices. It also serves as an introduction for those seeking more information on evidence synthesis best practices and methods.

Background: Hearing loss is a significant global issue. Individuals affected by this condition face numerous challenges in their daily lives, including difficulties in communication, social isolation, and a diminished quality of life. Thus, early diagnosis and prompt initiation of usage of hearing aids are crucial to mitigate the adverse effects of hearing loss.Purpose: This study aimed to examine the amount of time it takes for an individual to obtain hearing aids after a diagnosis of hearing loss. In addition, it attempted to identify factors that affect individuals in this process.Research Design: This was a cross-sectional survey study.Study Sample: The study comprised 150 individuals who were using hearing aids and were aged 18 years and over. There was an equal distribution of 75 females and 75 males.Data Collection and Analysis: A 23-item questionnaire was given to the participants in order to evaluate the factors that affected the participants with hearing loss in the process of obtaining hearing aids. In addition to this, the date of the hearing loss diagnosis and the date of the hearing aid purchase were calculated. Statistical analyses were made between calculated time and demographic information as well as the survey questions.Results: A significant association was observed between the time of purchasing hearing aids and the deterioration in social relations or fear of exclusion from society (p &#60; 0.05). Furthermore, a significant correlation was found between the time of purchasing hearing aids and the individual&#8217;s educational level. Specifically, differences were noted in the purchase time for hearing aids between high school graduates and primary school graduates (p &#60; 0.05). Additionally, the average duration between the diagnosis of hearing loss and the purchase of hearing aids was found to be 3 years.Conclusions: We observed that individuals with hearing loss tend to delay the purchase of hearing aids, and various factors influence this decision. These findings highlight the importance of implementing interventions aimed at facilitating earlier access to hearing aids, thus reducing the negative effects associated with untreated hearing loss.

Purpose: Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids can potentially improve access to hearing-health care and enable individuals with mild-to-moderate hearing loss to self-manage their condition. This study compared the usability and performance of a range of self-fitting over-the-counter (OTC-SF) hearing aids. Research Design: This cross-sectional study evaluated six OTC-SF hearing aids. Study Sample: Forty-three adults with self-perceived mild-to-moderate hearing difficulties participated in this study. Data Collection and Analysis: Participants were randomly assigned to two of six OTC-SF hearing aids and used the manufacturer-provided instructions and smartphone applications. These hearing aids included HP Hearing PRO, Jabra Enhance Plus, Lexie B2 Powered by Bose, Lexie Lumen, Soundwave Sontro, and Sony CRE-C10. Usability was assessed based on the fitting time, hearing aid skills and knowledge (HASK), self-reported ease of the SF process, and Post-Study System Usability Questionnaire (PSSUQ) results. Performance was evaluated using the judgment of sound quality (JSQ) test and speech-in-noise benefit using the digits-in-noise and quick speech-in-noise tests. Results: Fitting time ranged from 14.4 to 27.1 min, with Lexie Lumen requiring the longest time (27.1 min; standard deviation [SD], 5.9 min) and HP Hearing PRO requiring the shortest time (14.4 min; SD = 1.9 min). The HASK scores varied, with Soundwave Sontro achieving the highest score (8.9/10) and HP Hearing PRO achieving the lowest score (6.8/10). Self-reported ease of SF and PSSUQ scores did not differ significantly between the OTC-SF hearing aids. Overall sound quality and clarity ratings significantly differed, with Lexie B2 receiving the highest rating (8.1/10 and 7.5/10) and HP Hearing PRO receiving the lowest rating (6.3/10 and 5.1/10). Speech-in-noise benefit did not differ significantly between devices. A thematic analysis identified seven themes of the participants' SF experiences and six themes of the researcher's field notes. Participants generally considered OTC-SF hearing aids user-friendly, although issues with Bluetooth connectivity, handling and insertion, and sound quality were noted by the researcher as common challenges. Conclusions: Usability and performance of OTC-SF hearing aids were similar across devices in terms of usability and speech-in-noise benefits. However, the devices exhibited variations in fitting time, HASK, and sound quality, including the overall impression and clarity. These findings can support the decisions of consumers and recommendations of health-care professionals. Further research of the long-term usability and selection processes of OTC-SF hearing aids is necessary.

Background: Referral pathways for the &#8220;dizzy&#8221; patient are complex and vary depending on presenting symptoms. There are currently no guidelines for referring a patient with vestibular symptoms from physical therapy to vestibular audiology for formal vestibular testing.Purpose: The purpose of this study was to survey physical therapists (PTs) to (1) provide insight into the referral process between the PT and the vestibular audiologist, (2) identify trends among PTs regarding their familiarity with objective vestibular testing, and (3) assess how formal vestibular testing can help provide a targeted treatment plan.Research Design: A mixed-methods approach was used to evaluate responses to an electronically sent survey to PTs of six different associations.Study Sample: There were 109 responses received, with 75 vestibular rehabilitation&#8211;certified respondents.Data Collection and Analysis: The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and qualitative analysis to derive themes from open-ended responses.Results: Primary triggers necessitating referral for further medical consultation and objective vestibular testing included (1) central indications, (2) no improvement in symptoms after the treatment period, (3) inconsistencies on physical therapy evaluation, and (4) a history of vestibulotoxic medications. Of the respondents, 35 percent (38/109) reported performing three to five physical therapy sessions before referral. The videonystagmography and Video Head Impulse Test were the most useful vestibular tests, 84 percent (91/109) and 69 percent (75/109), respectively. Most PTs (95/109 [87.2 percent]) were familiar with formal vestibular testing, and 74 of 109 (67.9 percent) felt comfortable interpreting the vestibular test results. About 72 of 109 (66.1 percent) PTs use vestibular tests to guide their treatment plan, and 64 of 109 (58.7 percent) PTs use the results when treatment plans have been unsuccessful. Interestingly, only 21 percent (23/109) stated that treatment plans differ after an individual received vestibular testing.Conclusions: The results demonstrate PTs&#8217; awareness and understanding of vestibular testing, but barriers to collaborative care include a lack of clear referral guidelines (i.e., number of treatment sessions before referral). Further support is needed to help navigate the care of patients with dizziness, including better access to formal vestibular testing.Clinical Relevance Statement: The work of this study highlights the need for better access to vestibular audiologists, increased communication between providers, and more multidisciplinary clinics for patients with vestibular symptoms. In addition, it encourages value of the vestibular test battery from the opinion of PTs who specialize in vestibular rehabilitation. Future work from this study may focus on creating a specific guideline criterion for the vestibular PTs and vestibular audiologists.

Over-the-counter hearing aids (OTC HAs) are approved for adults with mild-to-moderate hearing loss (HL) without professional assistance, but research comparing their effectiveness to professional-fit is limited. We compared the effectiveness of OTC HA fittings between self-fit and professional-fit groups and examined how the group effects depend on the age, sex, technology proficiency, HL, and HA history. At a university audiology clinic, 71 adults were randomly assigned to self-fit or professional-fit groups and fitted bilaterally with OTC HAs. The self-fit group used manual instructions. Participants underwent fitting, 1-month use, and outcome validation stages. Sixty-four native-English-speaking adults (32 per group) with mild-to-moderate sensorineural HL and normal cognitive and middle ear functions completed the study. The groups did not differ significantly in age. The Quick Speech in Noise (QuickSIN) test, Abbreviated Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit (APHAB), and Speech, Spatial, and Qualities of Hearing Scale (SSQ12) questionnaires were completed at baseline and 1 month after fitting to assess aided benefit. Additional measures included Real-Ear Aided Gain/Output (REAG/O) and hearing thresholds from the OTC app and audiometer. Data on age, sex, HL, HA history status, and self-reported technology proficiency were also ascertained. Multivariate analysis of variance and repeated measures were conducted. The professional-fit group had significantly higher REAG and REAO at 2000 Hz for all inputs, especially among individuals who were older, had greater HL severity, or reported higher technological proficiency. No significant differences in aided benefit were found between groups on the QuickSIN, APHAB, or SSQ12. However, the professional-fit group showed relatively greater benefit on the APHAB and SSQ12, and benefit on these measures declined significantly with age. The average threshold differences (app vs. audiometer) were within 10 dB, with some individual elevated thresholds (15-35&#x2009;dB) at 500 Hz using the app. OTC HA could be an alternative option for listeners with mild-to-moderate HL. Professionals could facilitate the fitting process and provide more appropriate amplification acoustically. The comprehensive findings provide valuable insights into OTC fitting, aiding audiology professionals and patients in achieving better rehabilitation outcomes.

This protocol outlines a systematic review with meta-analysis to evaluate the evidence that hearing aid use versus non-use enhances the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of adults with sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). The study has three aims: (1) to provide a graded recommendation regarding hearing aid use and its impact on HRQoL in adults with SNHL; (2) to assess the effects of hearing aid use on mental health, cognition, and balance within this group; and (3) to examine, through subgroup analyses, whether outcomes are influenced by variables such as patient age, degree of hearing loss, sex, amplification type, duration since fitting, or verification method. Participants will be adults over 18 years with mild to profound SNHL. Only those living independently or in assisted living facilities will be included. Excluded are individuals in acute care, or living in skilled nursing facilities, or who are incarcerated.Amplification options include the following: hearing aid styles (behind the ear, in the ear, etc.), power sources (battery, rechargeable, solar), signal processing (analog or digital), microphone type (omnidirectional or directional), fitting (monaural or binaural), service delivery (audiologist fit or direct to consumer), and payment type (self-pay or free).The following databases will be searched: CINAHL (via EBSCOhost), Cochrane Library, EMBASE (via Ovid SP), MEDLINE (via Ovid SP), PubMed, Scopus, Citations Indexes of Web of Science, ISRCTN Registry, ClinicalTrials.gov, and WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform.The Covidence online platform will be utilized for evidence synthesis, which will include the selection of studies, quality assessment (using Cochrane's Revised Risk-of-Bias Tool for Randomized Trials [RoB 2]), and data extraction for the meta-analyses. No ethical issues are expected. Systematic reviews do not require Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval because data for meta-analyses are available to the public and included studies have already gone through an IRB review. The protocol and findings of the systematic review will be presented at professional meetings and published in scientific journals.

Background: Tinnitus is a prevalent condition affecting approximately 14.4 percent of the global adult population. With growing mobile phone ownership and usage globally, the utilization of smartphone applications (apps) as tinnitus interventions has garnered research and clinical interest. Despite the abundant number of commercially available tinnitus smartphone apps, a majority of them lack validation of their effectiveness.Purpose: The goal of this study was to investigate the feasibility of using a smartphone app (Oto) in tinnitus management as determined by trial acceptability, deliverability, and effectiveness.Research Design: A two-arm controlled trial design was adopted.Study Sample: Sixty-two adults with chronic tinnitus were randomized to either the Oto user group or nonuser (control) group.Intervention: The multimodal Oto smartphone app, which combines patient education, cognitive behavioral therapy, relaxation, mindfulness, and sound therapy, was used by the Oto user group for 3 months.Data Collection and Analysis: Participants completed the Tinnitus Functional Index (TFI) at baseline, 1 month, and 3 months. The Oto user group rated Oto's ease of use and their satisfaction on a 5-point Likert scale and answered open-ended questions on user experience at 3 months. One-way repeated-measures analysis of variance was performed with Bonferroni correction.Results: Overall retention rate (defined as completion of trial at 3 months) was 87 percent. Among Oto users, 16 percent had a clinically meaningful reduction (&#x2265;13 points) in the TFI score from baseline to 3 months, whereas 7 percent of nonusers met the same criterion. The Oto user group showed no significant difference in TFI scores between baseline, 1 month, and 3 months, whereas the nonuser group showed a significant increase in the overall TFI scores from baseline to 1 and 3 months (F[2, 56] = 7.78, p = 0.001). Oto users found Oto easy to use and appreciated app features such as diversely themed therapy sessions and sound library. Suggestions including adjusting the duration of therapy sessions and a more structured habituation program were also noted for improving Oto.Conclusions: Use of Oto in managing tinnitus was demonstrated to be deliverable and feasible with a high retention rate. A large-scale randomized controlled trial is currently underway to further evaluate Oto's effectiveness and app usability.

Evidence synthesis refers to a reproducible literature review that addresses a structured research question with a critical analysis of the results from a comprehensive literature search such as what is seen in systematic reviews, scoping reviews, and meta-analyses. Evidence synthesis publications have become more common, but their quality has not increased. However, with an increased understanding of how to produce a high-quality evidence synthesis, this issue can be addressed. Adherence to the open science principles of transparency, collaboration, reproducibility, and accessibility can help increase the quality of evidence synthesis. This tutorial provides step-by-step instructions regarding how to produce a high-quality evidence synthesis project following best practices for evidence synthesis and open science principles. Tutorial. This tutorial is a step-by-step guide of how to apply current evidence synthesis standards to knowledge synthesis projects that will contribute to audiology research. Information regarding open access and how the principles of open science contribute to the quality and reproducibility of evidence synthesis is provided. Widely applicable steps for high-quality evidence synthesis research are presented with information about how open science principles can be applied to the evidence synthesis process. By incorporating open science principles in the production of evidence synthesis, published research will be of higher quality and improve access to critical information for evidence-based practice. Professionals can produce high-quality research by understanding the appropriate steps for an evidence synthesis project, choosing the appropriate method for a structured research question, and utilizing the recognized international standards for the production of systematic reviews and other types of evidence synthesis. This tutorial introduces readers to evidence synthesis with step-by-step guidance and resources for clinician and researcher teams to create high-quality research while following best practices for evidence synthesis.

Background: Pulsatile tinnitus (PT) is a form of tinnitus described as a rhythmic beating or whooshing in the ear or ears. Causes of PT can be quite variable and difficult to assess. Purpose: Ambient pressure tympanography (APT) can aid in diagnosing the pathology of the temporal bone that may cause PT. APT measures compliance of the tympanic membrane (TM) over the span of 15-60&#x2009;s with ambient pressure in the ear canal. The reflex decay test protocol includes APT to measure changes in admittance with a tonal stimulus. Using a contralateral reflex decay test setup without the use of a contralateral stimulus (outside of the ear at 75 dB), any movement of the tympanic membrane may be considered internally produced. Research Design: When a patient experiences tinnitus that is nonpulsatile, contralateral reflex decay testing without the stimulus tone should reveal a flat-line recording because there is no change in pressure or volume of the middle ear space caused by the stimulus. When a patient experiences PT, the TM may appear to be moving rhythmically secondary to pressure and volume changes in the middle ear space. Study Sample: Three adult patients (age older than 18 years) who recently presented to an audiology and otolaryngology clinic and reported PT symptoms were evaluated using APT. Intervention: Interventions were not studied during this case series. Data Collection and Analysis: GSI TympStar Pro Equipment measured TM movement over 15-s intervals. Contralateral reflex decay test settings were utilized with the contralateral stimulus reduced to 75 dB and kept outside of the patient's ear canal to avoid stimulating the system. The measuring probe tip was inserted in the symptomatic ear canal to maintain pressure and observe any internal movement in the middle ear. Results: APT of our patient cohort revealed fluctuating changes in the middle ear cavity volume with a rhythmic pattern that corresponded with the heartbeat. Imaging studies that were performed for each patient demonstrated the likely cause of PT. Conclusion: APT is an efficient clinical tool used to evaluate PT. If a rhythmic change in admittance that corresponds with the patient's heart rate is noted, then further imaging of the temporal bone to determine possible causes may be warranted.

Background: The purpose of the Client Oriented Scale of Improvement in Tinnitus (COSIT) is to set treatment goals and assess individual outcomes. The Tinnitus Functional Index (TFI) was developed as a comprehensive questionnaire to measure individual and population responses to tinnitus therapies.Purpose: To investigate the convergent validity and responsiveness of the COSIT and TFI.Study Sample: A secondary data analysis of COSIT and TFI measures from 99 participants who used sound-based therapy with hearing aids or earphones was undertaken.Data Collection and Analysis: Athematic analysis of COSIT goals was applied. Nonparametric statistical methods were used to measure convergence of COSIT "change with treatment scores" and "final scores" to change in TFI scores pretreatment and posttreatment and the final TFI scores with treatment. The level of agreement between the measures was determined using receiver operating characteristic curves. Treatment responsiveness was determined by comparing treatment-related change in total scores and subscales for responders versus nonresponders. Responders were classified as having >13-point change in the total TFI score and COSIT "change" score of >2 (3 = slightly better to 5 = much better).Results: The five most common COSIT goals were reducing tinnitus impact by addressing (1) well-being, (2) hearing, (3) sleep, (4) focus, and (5) context. The TFI and COSIT change scores and TFI and COSIT final scores showed moderate to strong agreement. The COSIT classified a higher percentage (78 percent) of participants as responders than the TFI did (43 percent). There was a fair agreement between the clinically meaningful change scores for TFI and COSIT (&#954; = 0.29).Conclusions: The TFI and COSIT measured similar constructs, and both differentiated responders from nonresponders. Our results are consistent with the COSIT being an ideal "one for one" tool because of its high responsiveness to individual goals. The TFI is better suited as a "one for all" questionnaire because of its universal content. Clinical trials should consider use of both the COSIT and TFI because of their different, but complementary, strengths.

Objective: CHARGE syndrome (CS) is a genetic disorder caused by pathogenic variants within chromodomain helicase DNA-binding protein 7 (CHD7). The classical presentation includes coloboma, congenital heart defects, atresia of the choanae, retardation of development, genital hypoplasia, and ear anomalies. Clinical presentation varies widely by type and severity. Structural anomalies of the ear cause hearing loss in 93 percent of individuals with CS. Factors to predict the type and degree of hearing loss among individual patients with CS have not been identified. Identifying factors would ensure patients receive early intervention and allow health care providers to accurately counsel on expectations. Research Design: To identify factors correlated with certain types and degrees of hearing loss, a retrospective chart review of 57 pediatric individuals with CHD7 disease-causing variants from the CHARGE Center at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center was conducted. All data were manually extracted from participants' medical records, as well as the CHARGE Clinic REDcap database. Type and degree of hearing loss were compared to the type of CHD7 variant and craniofacial anomalies. Results: Within our cohort, 97 percent of individuals experienced hearing loss (HL), with sensorineural (SNHL) being the most common type. Eighty-three percent experienced severe-to-profound HL in at least one ear, a higher prevalence than previously reported. Temporal bone scan results were available for 34 participants with HL, and structural anomalies were seen in 79 percent of individuals. Type of HL did correlate with CHD7 variant type (n = 100, p = 0.002). The most striking relationship is an increased risk of SNHL with CHD7 haploinsufficiency due to nonsense or frameshift variants. Conclusions: Regardless of the type or location of CHD7 variant, patients with CS are at risk for HL and should undergo temporal bone analysis as part of their initial workup. Such findings continue to expand providers' understanding of CS and will improve the management of patients.

Background: Although approximately 80 percent of hearing loss cases are treatable with hearing aids (HAs), only one in four individuals who may benefit from them pursue them. Along with audiologists, physicians are integral parts of the hearing-health care team. Whether patients with hearing loss are more likely to pursue HA use based on the physician recommendation is unknown. Purpose: To investigate motivating factors and perceptions of prospective HA users, particularly the role of physician recommendations. Research Design: Patients 18 years and older who underwent an HA evaluation at our practice between January 2018 and December 2022 were identified. Patients were given a 17-question survey to assess their demographic characteristics and factors related to HA adoption via e-mail (n = 2,677) or as a physical copy (n = 487). Study Sample: Our sample (n = 321) included 182 female patients (57 percent) and 139 male patients (43 percent). Most patients identified as White/Caucasian (86 percent), followed by Black/African American (7 percent) and Hispanic/Latino (2 percent). Most patients were older adults (age 60 years and older), and 144 (45 percent) were older than 75&#x2009;years. Intervention: We assessed the demographics and motivating factors related to HA adoption based on the results of the 17-question survey. Data Collection and Analysis: Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square analyses, and multiple logistic regression. An &#x3b1; of 0.05 was set as the threshold of statistical significance. Results: Approximately 80 percent of participants adopted HAs after their evaluation. The most commonly selected factors that influenced their decision were cost, insurance coverage, and physician recommendation. Chi-square analyses were performed to compare these factors between patients who did and those who did not adopt HAs and yielded a significant difference (X&#xb2; = 177.8; p < 0.0001). Patients' knowledge of multiple institutional locations that offer HAs (95 percent confidence interval [CI], 0.23-0.98; p = 0.045) and the office where they were evaluated (95 percent CI, 0.12-0.85; p = 0.019) were significant predictors of HA adoption. Conclusions: Our findings align with those of previous studies of motivating factors for HA adoption; however, with the addition of physician recommendation, our study showed higher HA adoption rates. These findings provide audiologists and physicians with insights regarding factors that impact HA adoption, which can help them develop a more individualized care plan during the initial evaluation.

Background: The AzBio Sentence-in-Noise Test was developed in 2011 and was successful in minimizing speech-recognition ceiling effects, giving clinicians and researchers a more accurate representation of a listener's speech-in-noise recognition. Recently, the Spanish version of the AzBio corpus was developed as a sentence-recognition test that could similarly be used to reduce speech-recognition ceiling effects in Spanish-speaking patients. The developers of the AzBio in Spanish included researchers and clinicians from the United States and Colombia. Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine whether the AzBio test batteries in English and Spanish are comparable in difficulty to proficient Spanish-English bilingual adults residing in the United States. Research Design: The study was designed as a standard group comparison. Study Sample: Participants included 20 Spanish-English bilinguals between the ages of 18 and 30&#x2009;years with hearing thresholds no greater than 25 dB HL in both ears. Data Collection and Analysis: Participants listened to three lists of 20 sentences from the AzBio Sentence-in-Noise Tests in English and in Spanish over two test sessions. Sentences were presented at a +5 dB signal-to-noise ratio in 10-talker babble. Sentence-recognition scores were calculated from total words repeated correctly out of total words presented for all three lists (60 sentences in total) in each language condition. A language experience survey was used to quantify and explore language experience in different dialects of Spanish. Results: Our results indicate that bilingual listeners scored similarly on the English and Spanish test corpora on the group level. On an individual level, participants who spoke a Colombian Spanish dialect were among the highest-performing listeners for the Spanish test corpus and among the lowest-performing listeners for the English corpus. Conclusions: The AzBio in Spanish is a highly valuable clinical tool for evaluating speech recognition in Spanish-speaking patients. Our results suggest that listeners who spoke a Colombian Spanish dialect, consistent with the location where the AzBio in Spanish test was developed, tend to perform better on the Spanish version of the test compared to the English version of the test. Thus, dialectical factors may affect sentence-recognition scores on the AzBio in Spanish corpus. Clinicians in the United States must consider dialect when administering this test corpus because the most common dialect in the United States is Mexican Spanish. Future research should evaluate the education level of listeners to determine the impact of language-specific vocabulary on sentence-recognition performance on both AzBio language corpora.

Vestibular function testing is recommended in children who report dizziness and in children with imbalance or delays in gross motor milestones related to sensorineural hearing loss. This clinical consensus statement developed by the American Academy of Audiology serves as a guide for assessing vestibular function in the pediatric population and allows for expected variations in practice and available equipment. It focuses on the pediatric approach to test administration and interpretation, offers protocols and tips for testing, and provides additional information on individual tests of vestibular function. Basic, practical knowledge of vestibular testing is required to incorporate the guidance provided in this consensus statement. Children have activities of daily living that are different from those of adults, so the overall goal of assessment and intervention should be to arrive at the best recommendations to help children meet their vestibular goals without hindrance to educational, social, and developmental outcomes. As this area of pediatric vestibular testing develops, more normative data and test techniques will be included, and this guidance will continue to evolve.

Background: Sound tolerance issues impact daily activities. Questionnaires effectively assess symptoms and severity of sound intolerance. The Sound Sensitivity Symptoms Questionnaire (SSSQ) is a brief five-item tool designed to evaluate the severities of sound sensitivity and screen different forms of sound sensitivity.Purpose: To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Persian version of the SSSQ (P-SSSQ) among adults with a pure-tone average no greater than 20 dB HL without tinnitus symptoms.Research Design: A cross-sectional survey was conducted. The questionnaire was translated using the International Quality of Life Assessment method. The content validity ratio (CVR) and content validity index (CVI) were determined. A confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), receiver-operating characteristic curve, internal consistency, and test-retest reliability were established. Convergent and discriminant validity were assessed.Study Sample: A total of 100 adults (48 women) from the general population with and without sound sensitivity participated in the study.Data Collection and Analysis: Internal consistency was evaluated using the Cronbach &#x3b1; and McDonald omega coefficients. Test-retest reliability was determined using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) after a 2-week interval. Convergent and discriminant validity were assessed using the Pearson and Spearman correlation coefficients.Result: The CVR and CVI of the questionnaire were excellent. The CFA confirmed a single-factor structure, consistent with the original English version. Internal consistency was acceptable (Cronbach &#x3b1; = 0.75; McDonald omega = 0.79). Test-retest reliability was excellent, with an ICC of 0.92. Convergent validity was supported by moderate correlations with the Hyperacusis Questionnaire (r = 0.571) scores, Misophonia Questionnaire (r = 0.453) scores, and uncomfortable loudness levels (r = -0.652). Discriminant validity was demonstrated by a weak correlation with PTA across ears (r = 0.175).Conclusions: The P-SSSQ is a reliable and valid tool that can quickly assess sound sensitivity symptoms with its single-factor structure and satisfactory model fit. It can be used as a checklist to evaluate various types and severities of sound sensitivity as well as to monitor treatment progress in audiology, otolaryngology, and psychology clinics. A score greater than 4 indicates sound sensitivity with 79 percent sensitivity and 82 percent specificity. Correlations with other questionnaires suggest overlapping sensitivities; therefore, the P-SSSQ is valuable for comprehensively classifying sound sensitivity.

Background: Misophonia is characterized by reduced tolerance to specific sound stimuli known as triggers. The reactions can be emotional, behavioral or physiological. In response to triggers, a person with misophonia might express irritation, anger, or disgust by being verbally or physically aggressive. This ultimately affects their quality of life.Purpose: The present study aimed to determine the impact of misophonia on everyday life using the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework.Research Design: The study used a cross-sectional survey design and collected data through a qualitative resurvey search method.Study Sample: The study sample included 51 individuals with misophonia aged 18 to 30&#x2009;years. The sample was recruited through the administration of the Revised Amsterdam Misophonia Scale.Data Collection and Analysis: The data were collected using two open-ended questions, the Problem Question (PQ) and the Life Effects Question (LEQ). The responses were linked to categories within ICF using a simple content analysis approach. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was conducted to check for the significant difference between the number of responses.Results: Among 294 responses, 222 were related to PQ, and 72 were associated with LEQ. Participation in activities was most affected by misophonia, followed by impairments in body function. The most frequently affected functions were focusing attention from activity limitations and participation restrictions, followed by appropriateness of emotion from impairments of body function.Conclusions: The findings indicate that misophonia most significantly affects the domain of Activities and Participation, with subsequent impacts on Body Functions and Environmental Factors. This underscores the heterogeneous and multifaceted nature of misophonia's effects, demonstrating the effectiveness of open-ended questions in capturing the varied impacts on affected individuals.

Background: The spectral and temporal components of the acoustic signal are processed in the central auditory system and contribute to speech and language processing.Purpose: This study aimed to assess the spectral and temporal auditory processing skills in children with a history of speech and language delay in early childhood.Research Design: The following tests were conducted to address our purpose: frequency following response test, temporal modulation transfer function test, spectral temporally modulated ripple test, and speech intelligibility in noise test.Study Sample: Thirty children aged 7-12 years with a history of speech and language delay in early childhood who caught up with their typically developing peers in middle childhood comprised the test group, and 30 children aged 7-12 years with typical development were included as the control group. Age- and sex-matched groups had typical hearing (audiometric thresholds between 125 Hz and 8 kHz &#x2264;20-dB HL) without middle-ear pathology.Data Collection and Analysis: All tests were performed in a soundproof room, in a controlled environment, in accordance with established protocols and with the cooperation of the children. Shapiro-Wilk (n < 50) and skewness-kurtosis tests were used to determine whether continuous measurements were normally distributed. In the statistical analysis of normally distributed data, an independent t test was used to compare the measurement values according to categorical groups and the Pearson correlation test was used to determine the correlations between the measurement values.Results: The test group scored significantly lower than the control group on the temporal modulation transfer function test, spectral temporal modulation ripple test, and speech intelligibility in noise test (p < 0.05). When the onset, transient, sustained, and offset responses that constitute the frequency following response were analyzed, it was found that there were delays in the onset and offset responses in the test group compared to the control group (p < 0.05).Conclusions: The results suggest that children with a history of speech and language delay in early childhood may have difficulties with auditory processing skills compared to their peers, even if they catch up with their typically developing peers in speech and language skills in middle childhood. Therefore, it is also critical to perform an auditory processing assessment in addition to speech and language assessment.