The spontaneous bursts of electrical activity in the developing auditory system are derived from the periodic release of adenosine triphosphate(ATP)by supporting cells in the Kölliker’s organ.However,the mechani...The spontaneous bursts of electrical activity in the developing auditory system are derived from the periodic release of adenosine triphosphate(ATP)by supporting cells in the Kölliker’s organ.However,the mechanisms responsible for initiating spontaneous ATP release have not been determined.Our previous study revealed that telomerase reverse transcriptase(TERT)is expressed in the basilar membrane during the first postnatal week.Its role in cochlear development remains unclear.In this study,we investigated the expression and role of TERT in postnatal cochlea supporting cells.Our results revealed that in postnatal cochlear Kölliker’s organ supporting cells,TERT shifts from the nucleus into the cytoplasm over time.We found that the TERT translocation tendency in postnatal cochlear supporting cells in vitro coincided with that observed in vivo.Further analysis showed that TERT in the cytoplasm was mainly located in mitochondria in the absence of oxidative stress or apoptosis,suggesting that TERT in mitochondria plays roles other than antioxidant or anti-apoptotic functions.We observed increased ATP synthesis,release and activation of purine signaling systems in supporting cells during the first 10 postnatal days.The phenomenon that TERT translocation coincided with changes in ATP synthesis,release and activation of the purine signaling system in postnatal cochlear supporting cells suggested that TERT may be involved in regulating ATP release and activation of the purine signaling system.Our study provides a new research direction for exploring the spontaneous electrical activity of the cochlea during the early postnatal period.展开更多
Objective: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of using a strip-shaped cymba conchae orthosis for the nonsurgical correction of complex auricular deformities. Methods: Clinical data were collected from...Objective: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of using a strip-shaped cymba conchae orthosis for the nonsurgical correction of complex auricular deformities. Methods: Clinical data were collected from 2020 to 2021 for 6 patients who underwent correction using a stripshaped cymba conchae orthosis. The indications, corrective effects, and complications associated with use of the orthosis were analyzed. Results: There were four indications for treatment: cryptotia with helix adhesion;cryptotia with grade I microtia;cryptotia with excessive helix thickness;and auricular deformity beyond the treatment time window(≥6 months). Excellent corrective effects were observed in all 6 patients. Complications occurred in one patient, who recovered after symptomatic treatment. Conclusion: The use of a strip-shaped cymba conchae orthosis alone or combined with a U-shaped helix orthosis presents a feasible approach for correcting complex auricular deformities or deformities beyond the treatment time window in pediatric patients.展开更多
Transition metal carbides and nitrides(MXenes)are crystal nanomaterials with a number of surface functional groups such as fluorine,hydroxyl,and oxygen,which can be used as carriers for proteins and drugs.MXenes have ...Transition metal carbides and nitrides(MXenes)are crystal nanomaterials with a number of surface functional groups such as fluorine,hydroxyl,and oxygen,which can be used as carriers for proteins and drugs.MXenes have excellent biocompatibility,electrical conductivity,surface hydrophilicity,mechanical properties and easy surface modification.However,at present,the stability of most MXenes needs to be improved,and more synthesis methods need to be explored.MXenes are good substrates for nerve cell regeneration and nerve reconstruction,which have broad application prospects in the repair of nervous system injury.Regarding the application of MXenes in neuroscience,mainly at the cellular level,the long-term in vivo biosafety and effects also need to be further explored.This review focuses on the progress of using MXenes in nerve regeneration over the last few years;discussing preparation of MXenes and their biocompatibility with different cells as well as the regulation by MXenes of nerve cell regeneration in two-dimensional and three-dimensional environments in vitro.MXenes have great potential in regulating the proliferation,differentiation,and maturation of nerve cells and in promoting regeneration and recovery after nerve injury.In addition,this review also presents the main challenges during optimization processes,such as the preparation of stable MXenes and long-term in vivo biosafety,and further discusses future directions in neural tissue engineering.展开更多
BACKGROUND A fish spike stuck in the throat is a common ear,nose,and throat(ENT)emergency.However,it is very rare for a fish spike to reach the thyroid tissue through the throat,which is very dangerous and can lead to...BACKGROUND A fish spike stuck in the throat is a common ear,nose,and throat(ENT)emergency.However,it is very rare for a fish spike to reach the thyroid tissue through the throat,which is very dangerous and can lead to pharyngeal fistula,cervical abscess,mediastinal abscess,and thyroid abscess.Proper and timely management can help reduce complications,especially in elderly patients.CASE SUMMARY In the case presented here,the causative factor was dentures,but improper management aggravated the condition.In the case presented here,an elderly woman with a history of accidentally swallowing fish bones for 20 d had a sensation of foreign bodies in her throat.Eventually,computed tomography(CT)of the neck showed that the left side of the thyroid gland had a dense shadow in the form of a stripe.CONCLUSION If a fishbone foreign body is not visible during endoscopic examination but the patient has significant symptoms,the surgeon should be aware that the fishbone may be lodged in the thyroid.To avoid a misdiagnosis,ultrasound,CT,and other tests can be used to clarify the diagnosis.T The first step in treating a fish bone in the thyroid gland is to determine the position of the foreign body and the extent of the infection,and to develop a personalized surgical plan for its removal.At the same time,scientific information should be made available to the general public so that people know that if a fish bone is accidentally lodged,they should not force it to be swallowed or be spit out by inducing vomiting,which are incorrect methods and may aggravate the condition or even cause it to migrate outside the cavity,leading to serious complications,as in this reported case.展开更多
Objective:To explore the application effect of microteaching combined with problem-based learning(PBL)teaching mode in teaching clinical nursing interns in otorhinolaryngology department.Methods:A total of 72 nursing ...Objective:To explore the application effect of microteaching combined with problem-based learning(PBL)teaching mode in teaching clinical nursing interns in otorhinolaryngology department.Methods:A total of 72 nursing students who interned in our hospital from June 2022 to February 2023 were selected,and all of them were comprehensively trained in basic theoretical knowledge as well as practical skills before the beginning of their learning tasks.The students were randomly divided into the control group and the experimental group,with 36 students in each group.The control group was taught using the traditional clinical nursing teaching mode,and the experimental group was taught using microteaching combined with the PBL teaching mode,subsequently comparing the differences between the two groups of interns in the degree of mastery of theoretical knowledge,hands-on skills,teamwork ability,patient satisfaction,and other aspects.Results:In terms of mastery of theoretical knowledge,the interns in the experimental group(97.22%)were significantly better than that of the control group(75.00%)(P<0.05);the interns in the experimental group had significantly better practical skills(77.78%)than that of the control group(55.56%)(P<0.05);the interns in the experimental group had significantly better teamwork ability than the control group(P<0.05);through the questionnaire survey,it was found that students’satisfaction with teaching in the experimental group(97.22%)was also significantly higher than that in the control group(75.00%)(P<0.05).Conclusion:The application of microteaching combined with PBL teaching mode in the teaching of clinical nursing interns in otorhinolaryngology department achieved significant results.It can not only improve the professional knowledge and application ability of nursing students,but also cultivate their independent thinking,problem-solving skill,as well as teamwork ability.It can also improve the teaching quality and patient satisfaction,and contribute positively to the development of medical education.展开更多
This narrative literature review delves into the multifaceted realm of parental involvement in the rehabilitation of children with permanent hearing loss. While existing research has made strides in elucidating parent...This narrative literature review delves into the multifaceted realm of parental involvement in the rehabilitation of children with permanent hearing loss. While existing research has made strides in elucidating parental roles in this context, critical gaps persist, necessitating a comprehensive exploration to inform future endeavors. Our review synthesizes a wide array of studies, identifying these gaps and emphasizing the significance of addressing them. Themes emerging from the literature include the varying degrees of parental engagement, the impact of cultural and socio-economic factors, and the challenges faced by families navigating rehabilitation processes. The synthesis of this literature not only highlights the current state of knowledge but also provides a roadmap for future research efforts. By addressing these gaps, we aim to contribute to a more nuanced understanding of parental involvement in the rehabilitation of children with permanent hearing loss, ultimately fostering improved support systems and holistic care for affected families.展开更多
Oral cancer (OC) is the most common form of head and neck cancer. Despite the high incidence and unfavourable patient outcomes, currently, there are no biomarkers for the early detection of OC. This study aims to disc...Oral cancer (OC) is the most common form of head and neck cancer. Despite the high incidence and unfavourable patient outcomes, currently, there are no biomarkers for the early detection of OC. This study aims to discover, develop, and validate a novel saliva-based microRNA signature for early diagnosis and prediction of OC risk in oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD).The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) miRNA sequencing data and small RNA sequencing data of saliva samples were used to discover differentially expressed miRNAs. Identified miRNAs were validated in saliva samples of OC (n=50), OPMD (n=52), and controls(n=60) using quantitative real-time PCR. Eight differentially expressed miRNAs (miR-7-5p, miR-10b-5p, miR-182-5p, miR-215-5p,miR-431-5p, miR-486-3p, miR-3614-5p, and miR-4707-3p) were identified in the discovery phase and were validated. The efficiency of our eight-miRNA signature to discriminate OC and controls was:area under curve (AUC):0.954, sensitivity:86%, specificity:90%,positive predictive value (PPV):87.8%and negative predictive value (NPV):88.5%whereas between OC and OPMD was:AUC:0.911,sensitivity:90%, specificity:82.7%, PPV:74.2%and NPV:89.6%. We have developed a risk probability score to predict the presence or risk of OC in OPMD patients. We established a salivary miRNA signature that can aid in diagnosing and predicting OC,revolutionising the management of patients with OPMD. Together, our results shed new light on the management of OC by salivary miRNAs to the clinical utility of using miRNAs derived from saliva samples.展开更多
To assess the pharyngeal presentations and the diagnostic value of thyroid SPECT and thyroid fine needle aspiratory biopsy (FNAB) in subacute thyroiditis (SAT) as seen initially in ENT department, 30 patients, during ...To assess the pharyngeal presentations and the diagnostic value of thyroid SPECT and thyroid fine needle aspiratory biopsy (FNAB) in subacute thyroiditis (SAT) as seen initially in ENT department, 30 patients, during the course of SAT, were examined for pharyngeal symptoms and tested for serum T 3, T 4 level. The thyroid SPECT imaging or thyroid FNAB were performed. Our results showed that, of the 30 patients, 21 had sore throat of various degrees, and 9 had abnormal sensation of throat. Six were diagnosed as having SAT by only SPECT, in the remaining 24, the final diagnoses was established by SPECT combined with FNAB. Two of them were finally diagnosed as having SAT by trial treatment with oral prednisone. It is concluded that sore throat and abnormal sensation of pharynx are the important presentations of SAT, and thyroid SPECT imaging and thyroid FNAB are valuable in diagnosing SAT.展开更多
Patients with age-related hearing loss face hearing difficulties in daily life.The causes of age-related hearing loss are complex and include changes in peripheral hearing,central processing,and cognitive-related abil...Patients with age-related hearing loss face hearing difficulties in daily life.The causes of age-related hearing loss are complex and include changes in peripheral hearing,central processing,and cognitive-related abilities.Furthermore,the factors by which aging relates to hearing loss via changes in audito ry processing ability are still unclear.In this cross-sectional study,we evaluated 27 older adults(over 60 years old) with age-related hearing loss,21 older adults(over 60years old) with normal hearing,and 30 younger subjects(18-30 years old) with normal hearing.We used the outcome of the uppe r-threshold test,including the time-compressed thres h old and the speech recognition threshold in noisy conditions,as a behavioral indicator of auditory processing ability.We also used electroencephalogra p hy to identify presbycusis-related abnormalities in the brain while the participants were in a spontaneous resting state.The timecompressed threshold and speech recognition threshold data indicated significant diffe rences among the groups.In patients with age-related hearing loss,information masking(babble noise) had a greater effect than energy masking(speech-shaped noise) on processing difficulties.In terms of resting-state electroencephalography signals,we observed enhanced fro ntal lobe(Brodmann’s area,BA11) activation in the older adults with normal hearing compared with the younger participants with normal hearing,and greater activation in the parietal(BA7) and occipital(BA19) lobes in the individuals with age-related hearing loss compared with the younger adults.Our functional connection analysis suggested that compared with younger people,the older adults with normal hearing exhibited enhanced connections among networks,including the default mode network,sensorimotor network,cingulo-opercular network,occipital network,and frontoparietal network.These results suggest that both normal aging and the development of age-related hearing loss have a negative effect on advanced audito ry processing capabilities and that hearing loss accele rates the decline in speech comprehension,especially in speech competition situations.Older adults with normal hearing may have increased compensatory attentional resource recruitment represented by the to p-down active listening mechanism,while those with age-related hearing loss exhibit decompensation of network connections involving multisensory integration.展开更多
The premetastatic niches(PMN)formed by primary tumor-derived molecules regulate distant organs and tissues to further favor tumor colonization.Targeted PMN therapy may prevent tumor metastasis in the early stages,whic...The premetastatic niches(PMN)formed by primary tumor-derived molecules regulate distant organs and tissues to further favor tumor colonization.Targeted PMN therapy may prevent tumor metastasis in the early stages,which is becoming increasingly important.At present,there is a lack of in-depth understanding of the cellular and molecular characteristics of the PMN.Here,we summarize current research advances on the cellular and molecular characteristics of the PMN.We emphasize that PMN intervention is a potential therapeutic strategy for early prevention of tumor metastasis,which provides a promising basis for future research and clinical application.展开更多
Confounding effect is a critical issue in clinical research of otolaryngology because it can distort the research's conclusion. In this review, we introduce the definition of confounding effect, the methods of ver...Confounding effect is a critical issue in clinical research of otolaryngology because it can distort the research's conclusion. In this review, we introduce the definition of confounding effect, the methods of verifying and controlling the effect. Confounding effect can be prevented by research's design, and adjusted by data analysis. Clinicians would be aware and cautious about confounding effect in their research. They would be able to set up a research's design in which appropriate methods have been applied to prevent this effect.They would know how to adjust confounding effect after data collection. It is important to remember that sometimes it is impossible to eliminate confounding effect completely, and statistical method is not a master key. Solid research knowledge and critical thinking of our brain are the most important in controlling confounding effect.展开更多
The accelerated rehabilitation specialist surgery and general established strategic alliance plan of Taihe hospital is introduced in the paper.The background of strategic alliances established,and the political,enviro...The accelerated rehabilitation specialist surgery and general established strategic alliance plan of Taihe hospital is introduced in the paper.The background of strategic alliances established,and the political,environmental and technological factors are introduced,and stakeholder analysis and management plan,risk analysis and management plan are made.Furthermore,a junior coalition problem that may occur in the process and the resulting deep thinking is analyzed,to provide the reference and enlightenment for the management of hospital and establishment of strategic alliance.展开更多
The Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has widespread implications for clinical practice of otolaryngologists in clinics and hospitals. With various reports of otolaryngology practitioners catching infection, a prof...The Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has widespread implications for clinical practice of otolaryngologists in clinics and hospitals. With various reports of otolaryngology practitioners catching infection, a profound structural reorganization of ENT services in the clinic is mandatory for protecting both patients and healthcare workers. The present study focused on quantifying the cost involved in reorganizing the otolaryngology out-patient services in a third world country during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. Though the pandemic has increased the cost of running of an otolaryngology practice world over, the impact is huge in India as penetration of health insurance/social security is minimal. As out of pocket expenditure forms a significant proportion of healthcare spending by majority in India, any transfer of additional cost incurred because of Covid-19 pandemic to the patient will burn a bigger hole in their pocket.展开更多
Since its establishment in 2014,Military Medical Research has come a long way in becoming a premier journal for scientific articles from various different specialties,with a special emphasis on topics with military re...Since its establishment in 2014,Military Medical Research has come a long way in becoming a premier journal for scientific articles from various different specialties,with a special emphasis on topics with military relevance.The field of military medicine may be obscure,and may not be readily encountered by the typical clinician on a day-today basis.This journal aims not only to pursue excellence in military research,but also to keep current with the latest advancements on general medical topics from each and every specialty.This editorial serves to recap and synthesize the existing progress,updates and future needs of military medical excellence,discussing foremostly the unique traits of literature published in this journal,and subsequently presenting the discourse regarding wartime and peacetime medicine,the role of the military in a public health emergency,as well as wound healing and organ regeneration.Special attention has been devoted to military topics to shed light on the effects of Chemical,Biological,Radiological and Explosive warfare,environmental medicine and military psychiatry,topics which rarely have a chance to be discussed elsewhere.The interconnectedness between military combat and soldier physical and mental well-being is intricate,and has been distorted by pandemics such as coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19).This journal has come a long way since its first article was published,steadily contributing to the existing knowledge pool on general medical topics with a military slant.Only with continuous research and sharing,can we build upon the work of the scientific community,with hopes for the betterment of patient care.展开更多
Objective To investigate the etiology,clinical characteristics,diagnosis,and treatment strategies and efficacy of pulsatile tinnitus(PT)caused by vascular anatomy abnormality.Methods The clinical data of 45 patients w...Objective To investigate the etiology,clinical characteristics,diagnosis,and treatment strategies and efficacy of pulsatile tinnitus(PT)caused by vascular anatomy abnormality.Methods The clinical data of 45 patients with PT in our hospital from 2012 to 2019 were collected and retrospectively analyzed.Results All 45 patients had vascular anatomical abnormalities.The patients were divided into 10 categories according to the different locations of vascular abnormalities:sigmoid sinus diverticulum(SSD),sigmoid sinus wall dehiscence(SSWD),SSWD with high jugular bulb,pure dilated mastoid emissary vein,aberrant internal carotid artery(ICA)in the middle ear,transverse-sigmoid sinus(TSS)transition stenosis,TSS transition stenosis with SSD,persistent occipital sinus stenosis,petrous segment stenosis of ICA,and dural arteriovenous fistula.All patients complained of PT synchronous with heartbeat rhythm.Endovascular interventional therapy and extravascular open surgery were used according to the location of the vascular lesions.Tinnitus disappeared in 41 patients,was significantly relieved in 3 patients,and was unchanged in 1 patient postoperatively.Except for one patient with transient headache postoperatively,no obvious complications occurred.Conclusion PT caused by vascular anatomy abnormalities can be identified by detailed medical history and physical and imaging examination.PT can be relieved or even completely alleviated after appropriate surgical treatments.展开更多
Lymphatic metastasis(LM)emerges as an independent prognostic marker for hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma(HSPSCC),chiefly contributing to treatment inefficacy.This study aimed to scrutinize the prognostic relevan...Lymphatic metastasis(LM)emerges as an independent prognostic marker for hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma(HSPSCC),chiefly contributing to treatment inefficacy.This study aimed to scrutinize the prognostic relevance of HSP90AA1 and its potential regulatory mechanism of concerning LM in HPSCC.Methods:In a preceding investigation,HSP90AA1,a differential gene,was discovered through transcriptome sequencing of HPSCC tissues,considering both the presence and absence of LM.Validation of HSP90AA1 expression was accomplished via qRT-PCR,western-blotting(WB),and immunohistochemistry(IHC),while its prognostic significance was assessed employing Kaplan–Meier survival analysis(KMSA),log-rank test(LR),and Cox’s regression analysis(CRA).Bioinformatics techniques facilitated the prediction and analysis of its plausible mechanisms in LM,further substantiated by in vitro and in vivo experiments utilizing FaDu cell lines.Results:HSP90AA1 is substantially upregulated in HPSCC with LM and is identified as an independent prognostic risk determinant.The down-regulation of HSP90AA1 can achieve inhibition of tumor cell proliferation,migration and invasion.Both in vivo experiments and Bioinformatics exploration hint at promoting LM by Epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT),regulated by HSP90AA1.Conclusions:HSP90AA1,by controlling EMT,can foster LM in HPSCC.This finding sets the foundation for delving into new therapeutic targets for HPSCC.展开更多
Objective: Tinnitus-a common clinical symptom-can be categorized into pulsatile tinnitus(PT) and non-PT. Among these, PT is usually associated with sigmoid sinus symptoms, such as sigmoid sinus wall defect or divertic...Objective: Tinnitus-a common clinical symptom-can be categorized into pulsatile tinnitus(PT) and non-PT. Among these, PT is usually associated with sigmoid sinus symptoms, such as sigmoid sinus wall defect or diverticulum, for which various surgical treatments are available. We have discussed the clinical efficacy of surgery for sigmoid sinus-associated PT via the transmastoid approach in this study.Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of 4 patients who underwent surgery for sigmoid sinusassociated PT via the transmastoid approach at Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital from January to December2020. Of these, 2 patients had sigmoid sinus wall defect and 2 had sigmoid sinus diverticulum. Postoperative tinnitus grading and surgical efficacy were determined.Results: After surgery, PT dissolved in 3 patients, while tinnitus significantly decreased in 1 patient.During the follow-up period of 12-18 months, none of the 4 patients showed complications related to increased intracranial pressure or venous sinus thrombosis, and tinnitus symptoms disappeared in 3patients without recurrence, although 1 patient occasionally developed tinnitus. Postoperative thin-slice CTA of the temporal bone indicated that the sigmoid sinus bone wall defect or diverticulum was completely repaired with a thick soft tissue coverage.Conclusion: Surgical repair of sigmoid sinus-associated PT via the transmastoid approach deserves clinical promotion as it exhibited better efficiency while being relatively less invasive.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the potential influence of anatomical variation in the anterior inferior cerebellar artery(AICA)on the occurrence and severity of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss(ISSNHL).Methods:N...Objective:To investigate the potential influence of anatomical variation in the anterior inferior cerebellar artery(AICA)on the occurrence and severity of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss(ISSNHL).Methods:Ninety ISSNHL patients were enrolled.The anatomical location of the AICA was exhibited using high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging(MRI),and the various AICA types classified by previously reported Chavda and Gorrie methods were analyzed.The severity of hearing loss in the ipsilateral ear among different AICA types was compared.Results:Approximately 85.6%of subjects had unilateral ISSNHL(uISSNHL),and the others had bilateral ISSNHL(bISSNHL).In the uISSNHL group,the ratios of different AICA types were similar between the ipsilateral and contralateral ears.The ratios of the different AICA types in the bISSNHL group were similar to those in the uISSNHL group.In the uISSNHL group,pure tone audiometry(PTA)thresholds at 2 kHz,4 kHz and 8 kHz of patients with Chavda type II AICA were higher than those of patients with Chavda type I and type III,with a significant difference at 4 kHz between type I and type II.There was a tendency of the PTA threshold in patients with Chavda type II or Gorrie type C to gradually increase from low to high frequency zones.Conclusion:When the AICA enters the IAC(Chavda type II)or crosses between the 7th and 8th cranial nerves(Gorrie type C),the severity and frequency of hearing impairment in ISSNHL but not the occurrence of ISSNHL will be affected.展开更多
Stapes fracture causes hearing loss and instability in the middle ear hearing system(MEHS). The material used in the stapes reconstruction restores stapes, but the effects of the nonlinear material parameters on the s...Stapes fracture causes hearing loss and instability in the middle ear hearing system(MEHS). The material used in the stapes reconstruction restores stapes, but the effects of the nonlinear material parameters on the stability of the MEHS are still unknown. To address this challenge, the nonlinear dynamic response and stability of the stapes reconstruction are investigated using a multi-degree-of-freedom mechanical model. The material parameters of the implant are tentatively determined by analyzing the natural frequencies of the undamped system. The dynamical properties of the MEHS are characterized under different external excitations. The approximate solution of the MEHS near the resonant frequency is derived through the multiple-time-scale method(MTSM). The results show that the nonlinear stiffness of the material has little influence on the MEHS in the healthy state, but it causes resonant phenomena between the ossicle and the implant in the pathological state.展开更多
BACKGROUND The tinnitus susceptibility patterns in relation to different psychological and life stressors are unknown in different cultures.AIM To determine the comorbid psychosocial factors and behaviors associated w...BACKGROUND The tinnitus susceptibility patterns in relation to different psychological and life stressors are unknown in different cultures.AIM To determine the comorbid psychosocial factors and behaviors associated with tinnitus and the predictors for the increase in its severity.METHODS Participants were 230 adults(males=70;females=160;mean age=38.6±3.3).They underwent audiograms,speech discrimination and masking testing,and neuropsychiatric evaluation.Measures used for assessment included tinnitus handicap inventory,depression anxiety stress scale 21(DASS-21),perceived stress scale(PSS),and insomnia severity index(ISI).RESULTS Patients had mean duration of tinnitus of 11.5±2.5 mo.They had intact hearing perception at 250-8000 Hz and 95(41.3%)had aggravation of tinnitus loudness by masking noise.Decompensated tinnitus was reported in 77%(n=177).The majority had clinically significant insomnia(81.3%),somatic symptoms(75%)other than tinnitus and perceived moderate(46.1%)and high(44.3%)stress to tinnitus.The severe/extremely severe symptoms of depression,anxiety and stress were reported in 17.4%,35.7%and 44.3%,respectively.Patients with decompensated type had significantly higher scores for ISI(P=0.001)and DASS-21(depression=0.02,anxiety=0.01,stress=0.001)compared to those with compensated tinnitus.Psychiatric interviewing showed that 35.7%had non-specific anxiety disorder,17.4%had major depression,and 19.6%fulfilled the criteria of somatization disorder.Multivariate analysis showed that the only independent predictors for tinnitus severity were the duration of tinnitus[odd ratios(OR)=0.832,95%CI:0.640-1.158;P=0.001]and PSS(OR=0.835,95%CI:0.540-1.125;P=0.001)scores.CONCLUSION To the best of our knowledge,this is the first study in our culture to evaluate the causal relationship between psychological factors and tinnitus onset,severity and persistence.Tinnitus could be the earliest and dominant somatic symptom induced by life stressors and psychological vulnerabilities.Therefore,multidisciplinary consultation(psychologists,psychiatrists,and neurologists)is important to acknowledge among the audiologists and otolaryngologists who primarily consult patients.展开更多
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.81870732(to DZ),82171161(to DZ),81900933(to YS),and 82000978(to ZL).
文摘The spontaneous bursts of electrical activity in the developing auditory system are derived from the periodic release of adenosine triphosphate(ATP)by supporting cells in the Kölliker’s organ.However,the mechanisms responsible for initiating spontaneous ATP release have not been determined.Our previous study revealed that telomerase reverse transcriptase(TERT)is expressed in the basilar membrane during the first postnatal week.Its role in cochlear development remains unclear.In this study,we investigated the expression and role of TERT in postnatal cochlea supporting cells.Our results revealed that in postnatal cochlear Kölliker’s organ supporting cells,TERT shifts from the nucleus into the cytoplasm over time.We found that the TERT translocation tendency in postnatal cochlear supporting cells in vitro coincided with that observed in vivo.Further analysis showed that TERT in the cytoplasm was mainly located in mitochondria in the absence of oxidative stress or apoptosis,suggesting that TERT in mitochondria plays roles other than antioxidant or anti-apoptotic functions.We observed increased ATP synthesis,release and activation of purine signaling systems in supporting cells during the first 10 postnatal days.The phenomenon that TERT translocation coincided with changes in ATP synthesis,release and activation of the purine signaling system in postnatal cochlear supporting cells suggested that TERT may be involved in regulating ATP release and activation of the purine signaling system.Our study provides a new research direction for exploring the spontaneous electrical activity of the cochlea during the early postnatal period.
文摘Objective: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of using a strip-shaped cymba conchae orthosis for the nonsurgical correction of complex auricular deformities. Methods: Clinical data were collected from 2020 to 2021 for 6 patients who underwent correction using a stripshaped cymba conchae orthosis. The indications, corrective effects, and complications associated with use of the orthosis were analyzed. Results: There were four indications for treatment: cryptotia with helix adhesion;cryptotia with grade I microtia;cryptotia with excessive helix thickness;and auricular deformity beyond the treatment time window(≥6 months). Excellent corrective effects were observed in all 6 patients. Complications occurred in one patient, who recovered after symptomatic treatment. Conclusion: The use of a strip-shaped cymba conchae orthosis alone or combined with a U-shaped helix orthosis presents a feasible approach for correcting complex auricular deformities or deformities beyond the treatment time window in pediatric patients.
基金supported by grants from the National Key R&D Program of China,Nos.2021YFA1101300,2021YFA1101803,2020YFA0112503the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.82030029,81970882,92149304Science and Technology Department of Sichuan Province,No.2021YFS0371(all to RC)。
文摘Transition metal carbides and nitrides(MXenes)are crystal nanomaterials with a number of surface functional groups such as fluorine,hydroxyl,and oxygen,which can be used as carriers for proteins and drugs.MXenes have excellent biocompatibility,electrical conductivity,surface hydrophilicity,mechanical properties and easy surface modification.However,at present,the stability of most MXenes needs to be improved,and more synthesis methods need to be explored.MXenes are good substrates for nerve cell regeneration and nerve reconstruction,which have broad application prospects in the repair of nervous system injury.Regarding the application of MXenes in neuroscience,mainly at the cellular level,the long-term in vivo biosafety and effects also need to be further explored.This review focuses on the progress of using MXenes in nerve regeneration over the last few years;discussing preparation of MXenes and their biocompatibility with different cells as well as the regulation by MXenes of nerve cell regeneration in two-dimensional and three-dimensional environments in vitro.MXenes have great potential in regulating the proliferation,differentiation,and maturation of nerve cells and in promoting regeneration and recovery after nerve injury.In addition,this review also presents the main challenges during optimization processes,such as the preparation of stable MXenes and long-term in vivo biosafety,and further discusses future directions in neural tissue engineering.
文摘BACKGROUND A fish spike stuck in the throat is a common ear,nose,and throat(ENT)emergency.However,it is very rare for a fish spike to reach the thyroid tissue through the throat,which is very dangerous and can lead to pharyngeal fistula,cervical abscess,mediastinal abscess,and thyroid abscess.Proper and timely management can help reduce complications,especially in elderly patients.CASE SUMMARY In the case presented here,the causative factor was dentures,but improper management aggravated the condition.In the case presented here,an elderly woman with a history of accidentally swallowing fish bones for 20 d had a sensation of foreign bodies in her throat.Eventually,computed tomography(CT)of the neck showed that the left side of the thyroid gland had a dense shadow in the form of a stripe.CONCLUSION If a fishbone foreign body is not visible during endoscopic examination but the patient has significant symptoms,the surgeon should be aware that the fishbone may be lodged in the thyroid.To avoid a misdiagnosis,ultrasound,CT,and other tests can be used to clarify the diagnosis.T The first step in treating a fish bone in the thyroid gland is to determine the position of the foreign body and the extent of the infection,and to develop a personalized surgical plan for its removal.At the same time,scientific information should be made available to the general public so that people know that if a fish bone is accidentally lodged,they should not force it to be swallowed or be spit out by inducing vomiting,which are incorrect methods and may aggravate the condition or even cause it to migrate outside the cavity,leading to serious complications,as in this reported case.
文摘Objective:To explore the application effect of microteaching combined with problem-based learning(PBL)teaching mode in teaching clinical nursing interns in otorhinolaryngology department.Methods:A total of 72 nursing students who interned in our hospital from June 2022 to February 2023 were selected,and all of them were comprehensively trained in basic theoretical knowledge as well as practical skills before the beginning of their learning tasks.The students were randomly divided into the control group and the experimental group,with 36 students in each group.The control group was taught using the traditional clinical nursing teaching mode,and the experimental group was taught using microteaching combined with the PBL teaching mode,subsequently comparing the differences between the two groups of interns in the degree of mastery of theoretical knowledge,hands-on skills,teamwork ability,patient satisfaction,and other aspects.Results:In terms of mastery of theoretical knowledge,the interns in the experimental group(97.22%)were significantly better than that of the control group(75.00%)(P<0.05);the interns in the experimental group had significantly better practical skills(77.78%)than that of the control group(55.56%)(P<0.05);the interns in the experimental group had significantly better teamwork ability than the control group(P<0.05);through the questionnaire survey,it was found that students’satisfaction with teaching in the experimental group(97.22%)was also significantly higher than that in the control group(75.00%)(P<0.05).Conclusion:The application of microteaching combined with PBL teaching mode in the teaching of clinical nursing interns in otorhinolaryngology department achieved significant results.It can not only improve the professional knowledge and application ability of nursing students,but also cultivate their independent thinking,problem-solving skill,as well as teamwork ability.It can also improve the teaching quality and patient satisfaction,and contribute positively to the development of medical education.
文摘This narrative literature review delves into the multifaceted realm of parental involvement in the rehabilitation of children with permanent hearing loss. While existing research has made strides in elucidating parental roles in this context, critical gaps persist, necessitating a comprehensive exploration to inform future endeavors. Our review synthesizes a wide array of studies, identifying these gaps and emphasizing the significance of addressing them. Themes emerging from the literature include the varying degrees of parental engagement, the impact of cultural and socio-economic factors, and the challenges faced by families navigating rehabilitation processes. The synthesis of this literature not only highlights the current state of knowledge but also provides a roadmap for future research efforts. By addressing these gaps, we aim to contribute to a more nuanced understanding of parental involvement in the rehabilitation of children with permanent hearing loss, ultimately fostering improved support systems and holistic care for affected families.
基金supported by a joint GUIPRS/AHEAD Scholarship and GU Postgraduate Research Scholarshipcurrently receiving funds from Cancer Australia (APP1145657)+2 种基金the National Health and Medical Research Council (APP 2002576 and APP 2012560)the Garnett Passe and Rodney Williams FoundationNIH R21 and the RBWH Foundation。
文摘Oral cancer (OC) is the most common form of head and neck cancer. Despite the high incidence and unfavourable patient outcomes, currently, there are no biomarkers for the early detection of OC. This study aims to discover, develop, and validate a novel saliva-based microRNA signature for early diagnosis and prediction of OC risk in oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD).The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) miRNA sequencing data and small RNA sequencing data of saliva samples were used to discover differentially expressed miRNAs. Identified miRNAs were validated in saliva samples of OC (n=50), OPMD (n=52), and controls(n=60) using quantitative real-time PCR. Eight differentially expressed miRNAs (miR-7-5p, miR-10b-5p, miR-182-5p, miR-215-5p,miR-431-5p, miR-486-3p, miR-3614-5p, and miR-4707-3p) were identified in the discovery phase and were validated. The efficiency of our eight-miRNA signature to discriminate OC and controls was:area under curve (AUC):0.954, sensitivity:86%, specificity:90%,positive predictive value (PPV):87.8%and negative predictive value (NPV):88.5%whereas between OC and OPMD was:AUC:0.911,sensitivity:90%, specificity:82.7%, PPV:74.2%and NPV:89.6%. We have developed a risk probability score to predict the presence or risk of OC in OPMD patients. We established a salivary miRNA signature that can aid in diagnosing and predicting OC,revolutionising the management of patients with OPMD. Together, our results shed new light on the management of OC by salivary miRNAs to the clinical utility of using miRNAs derived from saliva samples.
文摘To assess the pharyngeal presentations and the diagnostic value of thyroid SPECT and thyroid fine needle aspiratory biopsy (FNAB) in subacute thyroiditis (SAT) as seen initially in ENT department, 30 patients, during the course of SAT, were examined for pharyngeal symptoms and tested for serum T 3, T 4 level. The thyroid SPECT imaging or thyroid FNAB were performed. Our results showed that, of the 30 patients, 21 had sore throat of various degrees, and 9 had abnormal sensation of throat. Six were diagnosed as having SAT by only SPECT, in the remaining 24, the final diagnoses was established by SPECT combined with FNAB. Two of them were finally diagnosed as having SAT by trial treatment with oral prednisone. It is concluded that sore throat and abnormal sensation of pharynx are the important presentations of SAT, and thyroid SPECT imaging and thyroid FNAB are valuable in diagnosing SAT.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.82171138 (to YQZ),82071 062 (to YXC)the Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province,No.2021A1515012038 (to YXC)+1 种基金the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities,No.20ykpy91 (to YXC)the Sun Yat-Sen Clinical Research Cultivating Program,No.SYS-Q-201903 (to YXC)。
文摘Patients with age-related hearing loss face hearing difficulties in daily life.The causes of age-related hearing loss are complex and include changes in peripheral hearing,central processing,and cognitive-related abilities.Furthermore,the factors by which aging relates to hearing loss via changes in audito ry processing ability are still unclear.In this cross-sectional study,we evaluated 27 older adults(over 60 years old) with age-related hearing loss,21 older adults(over 60years old) with normal hearing,and 30 younger subjects(18-30 years old) with normal hearing.We used the outcome of the uppe r-threshold test,including the time-compressed thres h old and the speech recognition threshold in noisy conditions,as a behavioral indicator of auditory processing ability.We also used electroencephalogra p hy to identify presbycusis-related abnormalities in the brain while the participants were in a spontaneous resting state.The timecompressed threshold and speech recognition threshold data indicated significant diffe rences among the groups.In patients with age-related hearing loss,information masking(babble noise) had a greater effect than energy masking(speech-shaped noise) on processing difficulties.In terms of resting-state electroencephalography signals,we observed enhanced fro ntal lobe(Brodmann’s area,BA11) activation in the older adults with normal hearing compared with the younger participants with normal hearing,and greater activation in the parietal(BA7) and occipital(BA19) lobes in the individuals with age-related hearing loss compared with the younger adults.Our functional connection analysis suggested that compared with younger people,the older adults with normal hearing exhibited enhanced connections among networks,including the default mode network,sensorimotor network,cingulo-opercular network,occipital network,and frontoparietal network.These results suggest that both normal aging and the development of age-related hearing loss have a negative effect on advanced audito ry processing capabilities and that hearing loss accele rates the decline in speech comprehension,especially in speech competition situations.Older adults with normal hearing may have increased compensatory attentional resource recruitment represented by the to p-down active listening mechanism,while those with age-related hearing loss exhibit decompensation of network connections involving multisensory integration.
基金Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences(2021-I2M-1-013)the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2021YFF0702801,2022YFF0710705)+1 种基金the Special Research Fund for Central Universities,Peking Union Medical College(No.3332022182)Seed Fund for Youth Talent Training Program of Beijing Tongren Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University(2020-YJJ-ZZL-034).
文摘The premetastatic niches(PMN)formed by primary tumor-derived molecules regulate distant organs and tissues to further favor tumor colonization.Targeted PMN therapy may prevent tumor metastasis in the early stages,which is becoming increasingly important.At present,there is a lack of in-depth understanding of the cellular and molecular characteristics of the PMN.Here,we summarize current research advances on the cellular and molecular characteristics of the PMN.We emphasize that PMN intervention is a potential therapeutic strategy for early prevention of tumor metastasis,which provides a promising basis for future research and clinical application.
文摘Confounding effect is a critical issue in clinical research of otolaryngology because it can distort the research's conclusion. In this review, we introduce the definition of confounding effect, the methods of verifying and controlling the effect. Confounding effect can be prevented by research's design, and adjusted by data analysis. Clinicians would be aware and cautious about confounding effect in their research. They would be able to set up a research's design in which appropriate methods have been applied to prevent this effect.They would know how to adjust confounding effect after data collection. It is important to remember that sometimes it is impossible to eliminate confounding effect completely, and statistical method is not a master key. Solid research knowledge and critical thinking of our brain are the most important in controlling confounding effect.
文摘The accelerated rehabilitation specialist surgery and general established strategic alliance plan of Taihe hospital is introduced in the paper.The background of strategic alliances established,and the political,environmental and technological factors are introduced,and stakeholder analysis and management plan,risk analysis and management plan are made.Furthermore,a junior coalition problem that may occur in the process and the resulting deep thinking is analyzed,to provide the reference and enlightenment for the management of hospital and establishment of strategic alliance.
文摘The Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has widespread implications for clinical practice of otolaryngologists in clinics and hospitals. With various reports of otolaryngology practitioners catching infection, a profound structural reorganization of ENT services in the clinic is mandatory for protecting both patients and healthcare workers. The present study focused on quantifying the cost involved in reorganizing the otolaryngology out-patient services in a third world country during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. Though the pandemic has increased the cost of running of an otolaryngology practice world over, the impact is huge in India as penetration of health insurance/social security is minimal. As out of pocket expenditure forms a significant proportion of healthcare spending by majority in India, any transfer of additional cost incurred because of Covid-19 pandemic to the patient will burn a bigger hole in their pocket.
文摘Since its establishment in 2014,Military Medical Research has come a long way in becoming a premier journal for scientific articles from various different specialties,with a special emphasis on topics with military relevance.The field of military medicine may be obscure,and may not be readily encountered by the typical clinician on a day-today basis.This journal aims not only to pursue excellence in military research,but also to keep current with the latest advancements on general medical topics from each and every specialty.This editorial serves to recap and synthesize the existing progress,updates and future needs of military medical excellence,discussing foremostly the unique traits of literature published in this journal,and subsequently presenting the discourse regarding wartime and peacetime medicine,the role of the military in a public health emergency,as well as wound healing and organ regeneration.Special attention has been devoted to military topics to shed light on the effects of Chemical,Biological,Radiological and Explosive warfare,environmental medicine and military psychiatry,topics which rarely have a chance to be discussed elsewhere.The interconnectedness between military combat and soldier physical and mental well-being is intricate,and has been distorted by pandemics such as coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19).This journal has come a long way since its first article was published,steadily contributing to the existing knowledge pool on general medical topics with a military slant.Only with continuous research and sharing,can we build upon the work of the scientific community,with hopes for the betterment of patient care.
基金supported by the Medical Science and Technology Project of Zhejiang Province(No.2019KY584)Traditional Chinese Medicine Science and Technology Project of Zhejiang Province(No.2023ZL648).
文摘Objective To investigate the etiology,clinical characteristics,diagnosis,and treatment strategies and efficacy of pulsatile tinnitus(PT)caused by vascular anatomy abnormality.Methods The clinical data of 45 patients with PT in our hospital from 2012 to 2019 were collected and retrospectively analyzed.Results All 45 patients had vascular anatomical abnormalities.The patients were divided into 10 categories according to the different locations of vascular abnormalities:sigmoid sinus diverticulum(SSD),sigmoid sinus wall dehiscence(SSWD),SSWD with high jugular bulb,pure dilated mastoid emissary vein,aberrant internal carotid artery(ICA)in the middle ear,transverse-sigmoid sinus(TSS)transition stenosis,TSS transition stenosis with SSD,persistent occipital sinus stenosis,petrous segment stenosis of ICA,and dural arteriovenous fistula.All patients complained of PT synchronous with heartbeat rhythm.Endovascular interventional therapy and extravascular open surgery were used according to the location of the vascular lesions.Tinnitus disappeared in 41 patients,was significantly relieved in 3 patients,and was unchanged in 1 patient postoperatively.Except for one patient with transient headache postoperatively,no obvious complications occurred.Conclusion PT caused by vascular anatomy abnormalities can be identified by detailed medical history and physical and imaging examination.PT can be relieved or even completely alleviated after appropriate surgical treatments.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.82173303)Natural Science Foundation of Chongqing,China(Grant No.cstc2021ycjh-bgzxm0149).
文摘Lymphatic metastasis(LM)emerges as an independent prognostic marker for hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma(HSPSCC),chiefly contributing to treatment inefficacy.This study aimed to scrutinize the prognostic relevance of HSP90AA1 and its potential regulatory mechanism of concerning LM in HPSCC.Methods:In a preceding investigation,HSP90AA1,a differential gene,was discovered through transcriptome sequencing of HPSCC tissues,considering both the presence and absence of LM.Validation of HSP90AA1 expression was accomplished via qRT-PCR,western-blotting(WB),and immunohistochemistry(IHC),while its prognostic significance was assessed employing Kaplan–Meier survival analysis(KMSA),log-rank test(LR),and Cox’s regression analysis(CRA).Bioinformatics techniques facilitated the prediction and analysis of its plausible mechanisms in LM,further substantiated by in vitro and in vivo experiments utilizing FaDu cell lines.Results:HSP90AA1 is substantially upregulated in HPSCC with LM and is identified as an independent prognostic risk determinant.The down-regulation of HSP90AA1 can achieve inhibition of tumor cell proliferation,migration and invasion.Both in vivo experiments and Bioinformatics exploration hint at promoting LM by Epithelial-mesenchymal transition(EMT),regulated by HSP90AA1.Conclusions:HSP90AA1,by controlling EMT,can foster LM in HPSCC.This finding sets the foundation for delving into new therapeutic targets for HPSCC.
基金This study was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.81870721)the Major Program of National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.82192862).
文摘Objective: Tinnitus-a common clinical symptom-can be categorized into pulsatile tinnitus(PT) and non-PT. Among these, PT is usually associated with sigmoid sinus symptoms, such as sigmoid sinus wall defect or diverticulum, for which various surgical treatments are available. We have discussed the clinical efficacy of surgery for sigmoid sinus-associated PT via the transmastoid approach in this study.Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of 4 patients who underwent surgery for sigmoid sinusassociated PT via the transmastoid approach at Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital from January to December2020. Of these, 2 patients had sigmoid sinus wall defect and 2 had sigmoid sinus diverticulum. Postoperative tinnitus grading and surgical efficacy were determined.Results: After surgery, PT dissolved in 3 patients, while tinnitus significantly decreased in 1 patient.During the follow-up period of 12-18 months, none of the 4 patients showed complications related to increased intracranial pressure or venous sinus thrombosis, and tinnitus symptoms disappeared in 3patients without recurrence, although 1 patient occasionally developed tinnitus. Postoperative thin-slice CTA of the temporal bone indicated that the sigmoid sinus bone wall defect or diverticulum was completely repaired with a thick soft tissue coverage.Conclusion: Surgical repair of sigmoid sinus-associated PT via the transmastoid approach deserves clinical promotion as it exhibited better efficiency while being relatively less invasive.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China[81771006].
文摘Objective:To investigate the potential influence of anatomical variation in the anterior inferior cerebellar artery(AICA)on the occurrence and severity of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss(ISSNHL).Methods:Ninety ISSNHL patients were enrolled.The anatomical location of the AICA was exhibited using high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging(MRI),and the various AICA types classified by previously reported Chavda and Gorrie methods were analyzed.The severity of hearing loss in the ipsilateral ear among different AICA types was compared.Results:Approximately 85.6%of subjects had unilateral ISSNHL(uISSNHL),and the others had bilateral ISSNHL(bISSNHL).In the uISSNHL group,the ratios of different AICA types were similar between the ipsilateral and contralateral ears.The ratios of the different AICA types in the bISSNHL group were similar to those in the uISSNHL group.In the uISSNHL group,pure tone audiometry(PTA)thresholds at 2 kHz,4 kHz and 8 kHz of patients with Chavda type II AICA were higher than those of patients with Chavda type I and type III,with a significant difference at 4 kHz between type I and type II.There was a tendency of the PTA threshold in patients with Chavda type II or Gorrie type C to gradually increase from low to high frequency zones.Conclusion:When the AICA enters the IAC(Chavda type II)or crosses between the 7th and 8th cranial nerves(Gorrie type C),the severity and frequency of hearing impairment in ISSNHL but not the occurrence of ISSNHL will be affected.
基金Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos. 12072222, 12132010,12021002, 11991032, and 12372019)the State Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and System Safety of Traffic Engineering Structures of China (No. SKLTESKF1901)the Aeronautical Science Foundation of China (No. ASFC-201915048001)。
文摘Stapes fracture causes hearing loss and instability in the middle ear hearing system(MEHS). The material used in the stapes reconstruction restores stapes, but the effects of the nonlinear material parameters on the stability of the MEHS are still unknown. To address this challenge, the nonlinear dynamic response and stability of the stapes reconstruction are investigated using a multi-degree-of-freedom mechanical model. The material parameters of the implant are tentatively determined by analyzing the natural frequencies of the undamped system. The dynamical properties of the MEHS are characterized under different external excitations. The approximate solution of the MEHS near the resonant frequency is derived through the multiple-time-scale method(MTSM). The results show that the nonlinear stiffness of the material has little influence on the MEHS in the healthy state, but it causes resonant phenomena between the ossicle and the implant in the pathological state.
文摘BACKGROUND The tinnitus susceptibility patterns in relation to different psychological and life stressors are unknown in different cultures.AIM To determine the comorbid psychosocial factors and behaviors associated with tinnitus and the predictors for the increase in its severity.METHODS Participants were 230 adults(males=70;females=160;mean age=38.6±3.3).They underwent audiograms,speech discrimination and masking testing,and neuropsychiatric evaluation.Measures used for assessment included tinnitus handicap inventory,depression anxiety stress scale 21(DASS-21),perceived stress scale(PSS),and insomnia severity index(ISI).RESULTS Patients had mean duration of tinnitus of 11.5±2.5 mo.They had intact hearing perception at 250-8000 Hz and 95(41.3%)had aggravation of tinnitus loudness by masking noise.Decompensated tinnitus was reported in 77%(n=177).The majority had clinically significant insomnia(81.3%),somatic symptoms(75%)other than tinnitus and perceived moderate(46.1%)and high(44.3%)stress to tinnitus.The severe/extremely severe symptoms of depression,anxiety and stress were reported in 17.4%,35.7%and 44.3%,respectively.Patients with decompensated type had significantly higher scores for ISI(P=0.001)and DASS-21(depression=0.02,anxiety=0.01,stress=0.001)compared to those with compensated tinnitus.Psychiatric interviewing showed that 35.7%had non-specific anxiety disorder,17.4%had major depression,and 19.6%fulfilled the criteria of somatization disorder.Multivariate analysis showed that the only independent predictors for tinnitus severity were the duration of tinnitus[odd ratios(OR)=0.832,95%CI:0.640-1.158;P=0.001]and PSS(OR=0.835,95%CI:0.540-1.125;P=0.001)scores.CONCLUSION To the best of our knowledge,this is the first study in our culture to evaluate the causal relationship between psychological factors and tinnitus onset,severity and persistence.Tinnitus could be the earliest and dominant somatic symptom induced by life stressors and psychological vulnerabilities.Therefore,multidisciplinary consultation(psychologists,psychiatrists,and neurologists)is important to acknowledge among the audiologists and otolaryngologists who primarily consult patients.
