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Temporal non-linearities of the cochlear amplifier revealed by maximum length sequence stimulation
A R Thornton1, K Shin, E Gottesman
1MRC Institute of Hearing Research, Royal South Hants Hospital, Brinton's Terrace, SO14 0YG, Southampton, UK. ardt@soton.ac.uk
Summary
Temporal non-linearities in otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) were identified and found to be distinct from system non-linearities. These OAE findings offer new research avenues in auditory function.
Area of Science:
- Auditory Neuroscience
- Otoacoustic Emissions Research
- Non-linear Dynamics in Hearing
Background:
- Otoacoustic emissions (OAEs) reflect cochlear amplifier function.
- Understanding non-linearities in OAEs is crucial for precise auditory system assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the existence and characteristics of temporal non-linearities in OAEs.
- To differentiate cochlear amplifier non-linearities from recording system artifacts.
Main Methods:
- Utilized maximum length sequence stimulation at varying rates to evoke OAEs.
- Analyzed data for linear responses and estimated Volterra kernels (2nd and 3rd order).
- Measured non-linear temporal interactions using click stimuli.
Main Results:
- Confirmed the existence of stable, repeatable temporal non-linearities in OAEs.
- Demonstrated that these non-linearities possess distinct properties compared to linear responses.
- Observed some unpredicted complexity in non-linear response patterns despite general trends.
Conclusions:
- Successfully distinguished physiological non-linearities from system-related ones.
- The novel OAE responses open new avenues for auditory research and clinical applications.