Medial olivocochlear influence on stimulus-frequency otoacoustic emission input-output functions

• DOI: 10.1121/1.4709311
• Publication Date: 2012-04-18T13:50:24Z
• Authors: James Dewey; Sumitrajit Dhar
• Keywords: Basilar membrane; Otoacoustic emission; Stimulus (psychology)

Modulation of cochlear mechanics by the medial olivocochlear efferent system is characterized a reduction in active, outer hair cell-mediated amplification basilar membrane motion. This increases thresholds and linearizes input-output functions for low-to-moderate stimulus levels. Significant effects have also been observed responses to higher levels, potentially reflecting changes mechanical properties partition. In humans, sound activated stimulus-frequency otoacoustic emissions used as tool investigating dynamics reflex. However, degree which amplitude phase are related those motion not entirely clear. For purposes comparison with invasive physiological measurements animals, emission were obtained from human subjects presence absence contralateral acoustic stimulation. Medial quantified terms absolute change level well vector change, incorporates phase. The extent modulation humans reflects that previous reports will be discussed.