Self-Reported Voice-Related Quality of Life in Cochlear Implant Users

Objective: The aim of this study was to identify if cochlear implant (CI) users are perceiving a decrease in life quality due to voice problems. This study evaluated 43 CI user's perception of their voice and how it affects their quality of life through a survey. Approach: Forty-three CI users responded to a survey regarding their demographics, details about their CI, the Hearing Health Quick Test (HHQT), the Voice Related Quality of Life (V-RQOL), and the Voice Handicap Index-10 (VHI-10). The survey responses were analyzed using univariate linear regression analysis. Results: Few of the CI users scored below the cut off for normal voice related quality of life. CI users averaged 93.4 out of 100 on the V-RQOL and only four scored abnormally for the VHI-10. Lower scores on the V-RQOL were correlated with the participants having an associate degree and with participants visiting friends, family, and neighbors less often due to hearing loss. The VHI-10 scores were correlated with gender, education levels, difficulty in social situations due to hearing loss, noise exposure, and tinnitus. Limitations of the study: The small n was the primary limitation of this study. Originality: This study was one of the first to examine the voice-related quality of life in CI users. Conclusions: Overall, respondents did not perceive much voice-related difficulty. However, they were more likely to perceive voice-related difficulty if they experienced difficulty hearing in noise and avoided social situations due to hearing loss.

Objetivo: Este estudio identificó si los usuarios de implantes cocleares (IC) están percibiendo una disminución en la calidad de su vida debido a problemas de voz. Además, evaluó la percepción de la voz de 43 usuarios de IC y cómo afecta su calidad de vida a través de una encuesta. Enfoque: Cuarenta y tres usuarios de IC respondieron a una encuesta sobre su demografía, detalles sobre su IC, la Hearing Health Quick Test (HHQT), la Voice Related Quality of Life (V-RQOL) y el Voice Handicap Index-10 (VHI-10). Las respuestas de la encuesta se analizaron mediante un análisis de regresión lineal univariado. Resultados: Pocos usuarios de IC puntuaron por debajo del límite para calidad de vida relacionada con la voz. El promedio V-RQOL fue de 93,4/100; solo 4 participantes tuvieron puntuación anormal en VHI-10. Las bajas puntuaciones en V-RQOL se correlacionaron con título de asociado y menos visitas por pérdida auditiva; las puntuaciones VHI-10, con sexo, educación, dificultad en situaciones sociales, exposición al ruido y tinnitus. Limitaciones del estudio: La pequeña n fue la principal limitación de este estudio. Originalidad: Este estudio fue uno de los primeros en examinar la calidad de vida relacionada con la voz en usuarios de CI. Conclusiones: En general, los encuestados no percibieron mucha dificultad relacionada con la voz. Sin embargo, era más probable que percibieran dificultades relacionadas con la voz si tenían dificultades para oír en ruido y evitaban situaciones sociales debido a la pérdida auditiva.

Effect of tinnitus on sound localization ability in patients with normal hearing

Abstract Objectives To determine whether tinnitus negatively impacts the accuracy of sound source localization in participants with normal hearing. Methods Seventy-five participants with tinnitus and 74 without tinnitus were enrolled in this study. The accuracy of sound source discrimination on the horizontal plane was compared between the two participant groups. The test equipment consisted of 37 loudspeakers arranged in a 180° arc facing forward with 5° intervals between them. The stimuli were pure tones of 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, and 8 kHz at 50 dB SPL. The stimuli were divided into three groups: low frequency (LF: 0.25, 0.5, and 1 kHz), 2 kHz, and high frequency (HF: 4 and 8 kHz) stimuli. Results The Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) score of all the stimuli in the tinnitus group was significantly higher than that in the control group (13.45 ± 3.34 vs. 11.44 ± 2.56, p = 4.115, t < 0.001). The RMSE scores at LF, 2 kHz, and HF were significantly higher in the tinnitus group than those in the control group (LF: 11.66 ± 3.62 vs. 10.04 ± 3.13, t = 2.918, p = 0.004; 2 kHz: 16.63 ± 5.45 vs. 14.43 ± 4.52, t = 2.690, p = 0.008; HF: 13.42 ± 4.74 vs. 11.14 ± 3.68, t = 3.292, p = 0.001). Thus, the accuracy of sound source discrimination in participants with tinnitus was significantly worse than that in those without tinnitus, despite the stimuli frequency. There was no difference in the ability to localize the sound of the matched frequency and other frequencies (12.86 ± 6.29 vs. 13.87 ± 3.14, t = 1.204, p = 0.236). Additionally, there was no correlation observed between the loudness of tinnitus and RMSE scores (r = 0.096, p = 0.434), and the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) and RMSE scores (r = −0.056, p = 0.648). Conclusions Our present data suggest that tinnitus negatively impacted sound source localization accuracy, even when participants had normal hearing. The matched pitch and loudness and the impact of tinnitus on patients' daily lives were not related to the sound source localization ability. Level of evidence 4.

Influential factors of the efficacy of tinnitus multivariate integrated sound therapy for the treatment of subjective tinnitus / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the influential factors of the efficacy of tinnitus multivariate integrated sound therapy (T-MIST) in the treatment of subjective tinnitus.Methods:A total of 431 patients with subjective tinnitus who received treatment in The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University from June 2019 to June 2020 were included in this study. A cross-sectional study method was used to conduct refined testing on tinnitus patients using the T-MIST matching platform. The severity of tinnitus patients was evaluated using the Tinnitus handicap inventory scale. SPSS software was used to analyze the factors affecting the effectiveness of the T-MIST for subjective tinnitus based on patients' basic characteristics.Results:Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that compared with patients with short-term tinnitus, OR (95% CI) was 1.982 (1.033-3.804), P = 0.040, in patients with 3-12 months of disease duration, OR (95% CI) was 2.411 (1.322-4.396), P = 0.004 in patients with > 12 months of disease duration. With the increase in tinnitus handicap inventory score, the efficacy of T-MIST became better [ OR (95% CI) = 1.014 (1.004-1.024), P = 0.007]. The efficacy of T-MIST was better in the hearing compensation-effective patients [ OR (95% CI) = 0.133 (0.081-0.216), P < 0.001]. Conclusion:The course of the disease, tinnitus handicap inventory score, and effective hearing compensation are the influential factors of T-MIST. They can provide evidence for the treatment of subjective tinnitus.

Validation of the Filipino Voice Handicap Index-10 (FVHI-10)

Rationale/Objective@#The Voice Handicap Index (VHI) is a selfassessment tool that evaluates the patient’s reaction and perception to a vocal disorder. This study aimed to establish, validate and assess the reliability of the Filipino translation of the Voice Handicap Index 10 (FVHI-10).@*Methods@#The VHI-10 was translated and adapted to the Filipino language and culture with the help of the Sentro ng Wikang Filipino- University of the Philippines Manila. A self-assessment of voice quality and FVHI-10 were performed by the patients and their GRBAS scale scoring was rated by a speech language pathologist. The Spearman’s correlation between the FVHI-10 and the self-assessment and GRBAS scale scores was obtained to test for validity. To evaluate the reliability of the FVHI-10, testing through determining internal consistency was conducted through the use of Chronbach α coefficient, inter-item correlation, item-total correlation and Cronbach α coefficient if tool item was deleted.@*Results@#Fifty five individuals participated in the study (29 males, 26 females, age range: 30-55 years) with the diagnosis of voice disorder based on complaints of hoarseness or dysphonia and laryngoscopic findings. Convergent validity was confirmed with moderate to strong correlation between the FVHI-10 and self-assessment (r=-.893, p<.05) and GRBAS scale scores (r=.427, p<.05). Reliability as measured through internal consistency was confirmed (Cronbach α=.874) (average ρ<.5) (corrected item-total correlation>0.3) (average interitem correlation=.15-.85). @*Conclusion@#The FVHI-10 was determined to be a valid and reliable instrument that can be utilized in the assessment of Filipino patients with voice disorders.

Correlation between vitamin D deficiency and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo

Background: Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is the most common cause of peripheral vertigo. Vitamin D3 is an indispensable part of bone mineralization and calcium homeostasis. Vitamin D3 also plays a role in BPPV and therefore may offer a therapeutic option. Aim and Objective: This study aims to evaluate the relationship of BPPV with Vitamin D deficiency. Materials and Methods: This observational case–control study was done on 80 subjects out of which 40 were confirmed cases of BPPV patients and 40 were controls. Ear, throat, and nose were examined in all patients. Measurement of Vitamin D3 was done in all subjects. Assessment of quality of life was done using Dizziness Handicap Inventory score (DHI) and Visual Vertigo Analog Scale (VVAS). Results: In our study among cases, 14 patients (35%) had normal Vitamin D levels, Vitamin D deficiency was seen in 15 cases (37.5%) and 11 patients (27.5%) had Vitamin D insufficiency. In control group, 22 patients (55%) had normal Vitamin D levels and 9 patients (22.5%) each had Vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency. Mean of Vitamin D concentration in the case group was 23.78 ± 10.43 and in the control group had 35.99 ± 15.99. The relationship between the two groups was significant (P = 0.001). The mean of body mass index in case and control group was 22.46 ± 2.48 and 23.43 ± 2.38, respectively, with P-value of 0.032 indicating significant relationship statistically. Furthermore, VVAS and DHI scores were higher in cases with deficiency and insufficiency of Vitamin D. Conclusion: The present study shows a significant relationship of reduced concentration of Vitamin D with idiopathic BPPV.

Determining attributed factors of hearing handicap in individuals with auditory sensory and neural pathology

Abstract Introduction: There is a modest relationship between speech perception skills and perceived hearing handicap in individuals with hearing loss. In this study, an attempt is made at linking psychoacoustic results and speech perception skills to understand the subjective handicap and quality of life. Objective: To investigate how speech perception in noise (signal to noise ratio-50), difference limen frequency, temporal modulation transfer function, hearing handicap inventory for adults, and quality of life in auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder differs from sensorineural hearing loss. Further we attempt to discern attributed factors of hearing handicap in auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder and sensorineural hearing loss. Methods: A cross-sectional study with comparative and correlational research designs were utilized. Eighty-four participants were grouped into sensorineural hearing loss (n = 49), and auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder (n = 35) was sub-grouped into mild, moderately severe, and severe. We evaluated signal to noise ratio-50, difference limen frequency, and temporal modulation transfer function. In addition, hearing handicap inventory for adults, and quality of life questionnaires were administered. Results: Mild auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder showed impairment in speech perception and discriminating frequency, which were similar to the severe sensory neural hearing loss. Temporal resolution impairment in auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder mild was significantly higher than in each sub-groups of sensorineural hearing loss. The severity of the hearing handicap in was similar to severe sensorineural hearing loss, quality of life was equally affected in sensorineural hearing loss and auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder. In sensorineural hearing loss, signal to noise ratio-50 was positively related, and quality of life was negatively related to hearing handicap. In auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder, no contributory factors were related to hearing handicap. Conclusion: Mild auditory neural pathology demonstrates impairment in speech recognition and psychoacoustic skills similar to severe cochlear pathology. In sensorineural hearing loss, hearing handicap is predicted from quality of life and speech perception, but none of the contributory factors predicted hearing handicap in auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder.

Investigation of the Relationship between Vestibular Disorders and Sleep Disturbance

Abstract Introduction Vestibular pathologies cause physical and psychological symptoms, as well as cognitive problems. Objective To evaluate the deterioration in sleep quality associated with vestibular pathologies. Methods The Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI), the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and the Limits of Stability test (LOS) were applied to the participants. Results We included 25 patients with Meniere's disease (MD), 22 patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), 21 patients with unilateral peripheral vestibular loss (UPVL), 23 patients with vestibular migraine (VM), and 43 controls. The total PSQI scores of the controls were better than those of the MD (p = 0.014), VM (p < 0.001), BPPV (p = 0.003), and UPVL (p = 0.001) groups. The proportion of poor sleepers in the MD (p = 0.005), BPPV (p = 0.018), and UPVL (p < 0.001) groups was significantly higher than that of the controls. The highest total DHI score (45.68 ± 25.76) was found among the MD group, and it was significantly higher than the scores of the BPPV (p = 0.007) and control (p < 0.001) groups. The highest BDI score was obtained in the VM group, and it was significantly higher than the scores of the BPPV (p = 0.046) and control (p < 0.001) groups. Moreover, the BDI scores of the MD (p = 0.001) and UPVL groups were also significantly worse than the score of the controls (p = 0.001). Conclusion The present study showed that presents with vestibular symptoms have physical and functional complaints, as well as increased psychosocial stress and decreased sleep quality. Evaluating multiple parameters of quality of life may contribute to a better understanding of vestibular physiology and symptoms, and may help establish a more effective therapeutic approach.

Marathi translation, linguistic validation, and cross?cultural adaptation of speech handicap index and voice handicap index in patients of head and neck squamous cell cancer

Background: Patient reported treatment outcomes is a better way to measure the quality of life (QOL). This study was undertaken to translate the speech handicap index (SHI) and voice handicap index (VHI) in Marathi language and its linguistic validation and cross-cultural adaptation in patients of head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC). Methods: SHI and VHI were translated into Marathi with prior permission from the respective authors of original English questionnaire (RAs). The translation procedure for each tool included two forward translations (English to Marathi), the formation of first intermediate Marathi translation (FIT), two back translations (Marathi to English) of FIT, and interim Marathi translation (IT) formation. The second intermediate Marathi translation (SIT) was prepared after face validation of IT by a subject expert. Pretesting of SIT was done in 20 patients of HNSCC to validate linguistic and cross-cultural adaptation. By incorporating the patient’s suggestions, the final Marathi translation was prepared and sent to primary authors for approval. Results: The grammatically and conceptually acceptable and face validated SIT was prepared and administered to HNSCC patients. The patients of the oral cavity and larynx were in SHI and VHI group, respectively (ten patients in each group). The questionnaire was well understood reflecting its linguistic and cross-cultural adaptation. Some of the patients suggested changes in a few words which were then corrected, rechecked with back translation, and final Marathi translated questionnaire was prepared. It was approved by RAs. Conclusion: Marathi translation of SHI and VHI are well accepted and comprehensible. It can be used for future studies.

Análisis descriptivo del índice de discapacidad vocal pediátrico en niños con patología vocal benigna / Descriptive analysis of the pediatric voice handicap index in children with benign vocal fold pathology

Resumen Introducción: La disfonía infantil puede afectar negativamente la autoestima del niño y su calidad de vida relacionada con la voz. Objetivo: Describir los resultados del cuestionario Pediatric Voice Handicap Index (pVHI) en niños con patología vocal benigna. Material y Método: Se diseñó un estudio descriptivo en pacientes con patología vocal benigna entre 3 y 15 años en la Unidad de Voz del Hospital de Niños Dr. Luis Calvo Mackenna entre octubre de 2016 y febrero de 2020. La evaluación se realizó mediante un examen laringoscópico y el cuestionario pVHI para evaluar el impacto en la calidad de vida. Resultados: Se incluyeron 49 pacientes, 35 varones (71,4%) y 14 mujeres (28,6%). La edad media fue de 9,27 años. En el examen laringoscópico, el hallazgo más frecuente fueron los nódulos vocales. La puntuación media total en el pVHI fue de 38,77: 11,67 en la subescala o categoría funcional, 18,59 en la física y 8,42 en la emocional. En la evaluación de pVHI por género no existieron diferencias significativas. Conclusión: La patología vocal benigna en la edad pediátrica ocasiona un impacto negativo en la calidad de vida relacionada con la voz. El cuestionario pVHI es un valioso instrumento para evaluar dicha repercusión.

Abstract Introduction: Childhood dysphonia can negatively affect a child's self-esteem and voice-related quality of life. Aim: To describe the results of the Pediatric Voice Handicap Index (pVHI) questionnaire in children with benign vocal fold pathology. Material and Method: A descriptive study was designed in patients with benign vocal fold pathology between 3 and 15 years of age in the Voice Unit of the Dr. Luis Calvo Mackenna Children's Hospital between October 2016 and February 2020. The evaluation was carried out through a laryngoscopic examination and pVHI questionnaire to assess the impact on quality of life. Results: Forty-nine patients were included, 35 boys (71.4%) and 14 girls (28.6%). The mean age was 9.27 years. On laryngoscopic examination, the most frequent finding was vocal fold nodules. The total mean score on the pVHI was 38.77: 11.67 on the functional subscale, 18.59 on the physical subscale, and 8.42 on the emotional subscale. In the evaluation of pVHI by gender, no significant differences were found. Conclusion: Benign vocal fold pathology in pediatric age causes a negative impact on voice-related quality of life. The pVHI questionnaire is a valuable instrument to assess this repercussion.

Dysphonia in Smokers of Combustible Cigarettes and E-cigarettes Measured Using the Filipino Voice Handicap Index

@#<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>ABSTRACT</strong></p><p><strong>Objectives: </strong>To determine the prevalence of dysphonia, defined as any perceived voice pathology, in conventional cigarette smokers and e-cigarette users and to quantify and compare the Filipino Voice Handicap Index (VHI) scores of the two groups based on the mean scores for each of the three domains of this tool, as well as the mean total score for each group.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong></p><p style="padding-left: 30px;"><strong>Design: </strong>Cross-sectional study</p><p style="padding-left: 30px;"><strong>Setting: </strong>Tertiary National University Hospital</p><p style="padding-left: 30px;"><strong>Participants: </strong>52 adults between the ages 18-65 with no previously known laryngeal illness or condition were divided into 26 conventional smokers and 26 e-cigarette users and completed the self-administered Filipino Voice Handicap Index.</p><p> </p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The prevalence of impairment in the sample using a total VHI score cut-off of 18 was 17.31% (9 out of 52, CI 8.23-30.32%) and the prevalence of dysphonic symptoms in the sample was 86.54% (45 out of 52, CI 74.21-94.41%). There were no significant differences between smokers and e-cigarette users for impairment using this cut-off (z: -1.36, p: .07) and dysphonic symptoms (z: 0.4063, p: .68). The prevalence of moderate impairment was 3.85% (1 out of 26, CI: 0.10-19.64%) among those using e-cigarettes; and 1.92% (1 out of 52, CI: 0.04-10.26%) among the entire sample population.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>There appears to be no statistically significant difference between the Filipino VHI scores of conventional smokers and e-cigarette users. Further inquiry into the subject would benefit from a larger sample size, comparison with a control group, inclusion of other factors relevant to the development of dysphonia, and correlation with objective means for voice analysis.</p>

Self-handicapping strategies in educational context: construction and validation of the Brazilian Self-Handicapping Strategies Scale (EEAPREJ)

Abstract Self-handicapping strategies refer to the set of choices and attitudes adopted to minimize blame for failure and increase the value of success in achievement situations. This paper aims to describe the stages of construction and the psychometric analysis of a scale to measure the self-handicapping strategies of university students. In study 1, the major steps for the construction of the scales and initial results are reported. The internal consistency indices were acceptable and the principal component analysis revealed factors with little explanation of data variance. In study 2, data from a sample of 834 students from several undergraduate courses of different Brazilian universities were subjected to exploratory factor analysis using the minimum rank factor analysis (MRFA) method and the matrix of polychoric correlations. The parallel analysis criterion for factor retention indicated the one-factor solution as the best fit to data. The importance of having a valid and reliable measure to assess self-handicapping strategies in educational contexts and the promising use of the scale in actions to improve learning in higher education are discussed.

Recurrencia de vértigo y discapacidad autopercibida en pacientes con hipovitaminosis D / Recurrencia de vértigo y discapacidad autopercibida en pacientes con hipovitaminosis D / Recurrence of vertigo and self-perceived disability in patients with hypovitaminosis D

El propósito de este estudio fue analizar el efecto de la deficiencia de vitamina D sobre la recurrencia de vértigo y la discapacidad auto percibida en pacientes diagnosticados con Vértigo Postural Paroxístico Benigno en un hospital de tercer nivel de la Ciudad de México. Se trata de un estudio retrospectivo y descriptivo. Se revisaron expedientes electrónicos (enero 2017 ­ diciembre 2019), de pacientes previamente diagnosticados, que presentaran valores deficientes de vitamina D sérica. Se contabilizó la cantidad de episodios de vértigo reportados, así como, la puntuación obtenida en el Dizzines Handicap Inventory para determinar el nivel de discapacidad auto percibida al momento del diagnóstico y a los 6 meses de seguimiento. Los niveles de vitamina D sérica de los pacientes seleccionados (n=30), demostraban hipovitaminosis (media de 17.1 ng/mL) al momento del diagnóstico. Seis meses después y habiendo recibido tratamiento con maniobras de reposicionamiento los pacientes reportaron desde ausencia absoluta de recurrencias (7 pacientes, 23.3%) hasta 8 recurrencias (1 paciente, 3.3%) en el mismo periodo. En cuanto al nivel de discapacidad auto percibida en la evaluación inicial predominó la discapacidad moderada (60%), mientras que, en la evaluación final, la preponderante fue la discapacidad leve (73.3%). No se encontró diferencia estadísticamente significativa entre la deficiencia de vitamina D y la recurrencia de episodios de vértigo. Se concluye que los resultados obtenidos posiblemente se deben a que la insuficiencia de vitamina D es muy común en la población mexicana, incluso en individuos sanos

The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of vitamin D deficiency on vertigo recurrence and self-perceived disability in patients diagnosed with Benign Paroxysmal Postural Vertigo in a tertiary care hospital in Mexico City. This is a retrospective and descriptive study. Electronic records (January 2017 - December 2019) of previously diagnosed patients who presented deficient values of serum vitamin D were reviewed. The number of reported episodes of vertigo was counted, as well as the score obtained in the Dizzines Handicap Inventory to determine the level of self-perceived disability at the time of diagnosis and at 6-month follow-up. The serum vitamin D levels of the selected patients (n=30) showed hypovitaminosis (mean 17.1 ng/mL) at the time of diagnosis. Six months later and having received treatment with repositioning maneuvers, the patients reported from absolute absence of recurrences (7 patients, 23.3%) to 8 recurrences (1 patient, 3.3%) in the same period. Regarding the level of self-perceived disability in the initial evaluation, moderate disability predominated (60%), while, in the final evaluation, the predominant one was mild disability (73.3%). No statistically significant difference was found between vitamin D deficiency and recurrence of vertigo episodes. It is concluded that the results obtained are possibly due to the fact that vitamin D insufficiency is very common in the Mexican population, even in healthy individuals.

Correlation between Hearing Handicap Inventory for the Elderly Screening (HHIE-S) and Pure Tone Audiometry (PTA) Test among Malaysian Elderly

@#Introduction: The study aims to determine the correlation of the Hearing Handicap Inventory for Elderly Screening (HHIE-S) questionnaire with the pure tone audiometry (PTA) in the Malaysian older adult population. Methods: This cross-sectional study took a random sample of adults ≥60 years in a tertiary hospital. A total of 202 participants completed both the HHIE-S questionnaire and the PTA test. The total HHIE-S score and the PTA result were explored for the correlation using a Kruskal–Wallis and the validity using the receiver operating characteristic curve. Results: A Kruskal–Wallis analysis indicated a significant correlation for the level of hearing impairment (r =.704, p < 0.001) between the HHIE-S score and the PTA result. Comparison between HHIE-S score of 8 and the PTA >25db results gave sensitivity: 87.9%, specificity: 78.4%, positive predictive value: 80.3%, and negative predictive value: 86.6%. Conclusion: This study suggests that the HHIE-S questionnaire is a good and valid screening instrument for hearing impairment detection in the Malaysian older adult population.

Impairment, disability, and handicap associated with hearing problems and voice disorders among Colombian teachers / Deficiencia, discapacidad y minusvalía asociadas a los problemas de voz y audición en profesores colombianos

Objectives: 1. define the occurrence of work-related hearing problems and voice disorders among teachers that have contacted the Colombian National Board of Disability Assessment (NBDA) for follow-up; 2. identify individual associated factors of hearing problems and voice disorders among teachers; 3. assess the limitations and restrictions due to hearing problems and voice disorders among these participants. Methods: Retrospective study. The National Database of the Colombian NBDA was reviewed. Information on distributions of occupation, individual characteristics, and diagnosis code (ICD-10) was analyzed. Results: Communication disorders among teachers that have contacted the Colom-bian NBDA for follow-up included voice disorders, with a prevalence of 51%, and hearing problems, with a prevalence of 7%. Female teachers who have contacted the Colombian NBDA for follow-up were 4 times more likely to be identified as having voice disorders compared with their male colleagues. Conclusions: While teachers that have contacted the Colombian NBDA for fol-low-up have a high occurrence of voice disorders, hearing problems are more likely to be stated as a debilitating condition. One possible explanation is that teachers who contacted the Colombian NBDA for follow-up continued working even when many voice symptoms were evident, while hearing problems would prevent a teacher from interacting with students, thereby affecting the teaching-learning process soon-er. Nevertheless, with both voice and hearing problems, work performance and social interaction is affected, and, therefore, quality of life is reduced.

Objetivos: 1. definir la ocurrencia de problemas de audición y de voz relacionados con el trabajo de docentes que contactaron la Junta Nacional de Evaluación de la Discapacidad de Colombia (NBDA) para su seguimiento; 2. identificar los factores individuales asociados a los problemas de audición y voz entre los profesores; 3. eva-luar las limitaciones y restricciones debidas a problemas de audición y voz asociados al trabajo entre los participantes.Métodos: estudio retrospectivo. Se revisó la Base de Datos Nacional de la NBDA colombiana. Se analizó información sobre distribuciones de ocupación, característi-cas individuales y código de diagnóstico (CIE-10).Resultados: Los trastornos de comunicación entre los docentes que han contacta-do a la NBDA colombiana para seguimiento incluyeron problemas de la voz, con una prevalencia del 51%, y problemas de audición, con una prevalencia del 7%. Las pro-fesoras que se han puesto en contacto con la NBDA colombiana para el seguimiento tenían 4 veces más probabilidades de ser identificadas con trastornos de la voz en comparación con sus colegas masculinos.Conclusiones: Si bien los maestros que contactaron a la NBDA colombiana para el seguimiento tienen una alta incidencia de trastornos de la voz, es más probable que los problemas de audición se consideren una condición debilitante. Una posible ex-plicación es que los maestros que se comunicaron con la NBDA colombiana para el seguimiento continuaron trabajando incluso cuando muchos síntomas vocales eran evidentes, mientras que los problemas de audición evitarían que un maestro inte-ractuara con los estudiantes, afectando así el proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje. Sin embargo, tanto con los problemas de voz como de audición, el desempeño laboral y la interacción social se ven afectados y, por lo tanto, la calidad de vida se reduce.

Les troubles cognitifs dans les syndromes cliniquement isolés: Etude cas-témoins / Cognitive impairment in clinically isolated syndromes: A control-case study

ntroduction - L'atteinte cognitive est fréquente dans la Sclérose en Plaques (SEP) mais son diagnostic se fait souvent tardivement, au stade de désinsertion sociale et professionnelle. Les études portant sur les aspects cognitifs dans les formes pré-coces de la SEP tels que les syndromes cliniquement isolés (SCI) et les syndromes radiologiquement isolés (SRI) sont rares.Objectifs - Analyserles fonctions cognitives d'un premier événement démyélinisant et identifier les domainesqui seraient les plus précocement atteints.Patients et méthodes - Le profil cognitif d'une populationhomogène de 13 patients présentant unSCI a été évalué, eta été comparé à 15 témoins sains appareillés en fonction de l'âge, du sexe et du niveau d'éducation. Une batterie de tests neu-ropsychologiques(BCCogSEP, batterie courte d'évaluation cognitive de la SEP),vali-dée dans la SEP, a été utilisée. Ses composants explorent les capacités mnésiques et verbales, l'attention, la vitesse de traitement de l'information (VTI) et les fonctions exécutives.Résultats - Lesperformances cognitives globales étaient amoindries dans le groupe SCI, comparativement au groupe témoin. Sur les 13 patients atteints de SCI, cinq (38%) présentaient une altération cognitive globale qui a été objectivée par l'at-teinte d'au moins deux ou trois tests de la batterie. La PASAT (Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test)était le test le plus altéré (84,6% d'atteinte). La VTI et la mémoire de travail étaient les fonctions les plus atteintes chez les patients.Conclusion - Les dysfonctions cognitives peuvent se voir très précocement et peuvent grever lourdement le pronostic de la SEP.

Introduction - Cognitive impairment is common in multiple sclerosis (MS) but its diagnosis is often made late, at the stage of social and professional disinsertion. Studies of the cognitive aspects in early forms of MS such as clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) and radiologically isolated syndrome (RIS) are rare. Objectives - To analysis the cognitive functions of a first demyelinating event and identify the areas that would be most affected early. Patients and methods - The cognitive profile of a homogeneous population of 13 patients with a CIS was evaluated, and compared with 15 healthy controls, matched according to age, sex and level of education. A battery of neuropsychological tests (BCCogSEP, Short battery for cognitive assessment of MS) validated in MS,was used. Its components explore memory and verbal skills, attention, information processing speed (IPS) and executive functions. Results - The overall cognitive performance was reduced in the CIS group,compared to control group. Five out of thirteen CIS patients (38%) had an overall cognitive impairment, demonstrated by the achievement of at least two or three battery tests. The Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT) was the most altered test (84.6% impairment). IPS and working memory were the most affected functions in the patients. Conclusion - Cognitive dysfunctions can be seen very early and can severely affect the prognosis of MS.

A linguistic validation study on the Filipino dizziness handicap inventory

@#Objective: To determine the validity and reliability of the Filipino Dizziness Handicap Inventory (FDHI) questionnaire among geriatric patients with dizziness. Methods: Design: Linguistic Validation Setting: Tertiary Government Training Hospital Participants: Twenty-five (25) patients Results: The dizziness handicap inventory was translated into Filipino by a Filipino language specialist and an ENT specialist who are experts in their field. The translated version was easily understood by the 25 geriatric patients with Cronbach α scores of .957 overall [M = 2.16; SD = 1.93]. Sub-domain item-total correlation scores (physical M = 2.6, SD = 1.90, Cronbach α = .860; emotional M = 1.66, SD = 1.84, Cronbach α = .901; and functional M = 2.5, SD = 1.97, Cronbach α = .902) demonstrated validity of the respective subdomains. Conclusion: The Filipino Dizziness Handicap Inventory questionnaire is an internally valid tool for assessment of dizziness among geriatric patients. External validity and reliability can be evaluated in future studies employing corroborative measures and repeated testing.

Comparison of the efficacy of vocal training and vocal microsurgery in patients with early vocal fold polyp / Comparação entre a eficácia do treinamento vocal e da fonocirurgia em pacientes com pólipo de prega vocal incipiente

Abstract Introduction: Vocal fold polyp is a benign proliferative disease in the superficial lamina propria of the vocal fold, and vocal microsurgery can improve the voice quality of patients with vocal fold polyp. In preliminary studies, we found that vocal training could improve the vocal quality of patients with early vocal fold polyp. Objective: This study aimed to compare the efficacies of vocal training and vocal microsurgery in patients with early vocal fold polyp. Methods: A total of 38 patients with early vocal fold polyp underwent 3 months of vocal training (VT group); another 31 patients with early vocal fold polyp underwent vocal microsurgery (VM group). All subjects were assessed using laryngostroboscopy, voice handicap index, and dysphonia severity index, and the efficacies of vocal training and vocal microsurgery were compared. Results: The cure rates of vocal training and vocal microsurgery were 31.6% (12/38) and 100% (31/31), respectively. The intragroup paired-sample t-test showed that the post treatment vocal handicap index, maximum phonation time, highest frequency (F0-high), lowest intensity (I-low), and dysphonia severity index in both the VT and VM groups were better than those before treatment, except for the jitter value. The intergroup independent-sample t-test revealed that the emotional values of vocal handicap index (t = − 2.22, p = 0.03), maximum phonation time (t = 2.54, p = 0.013), jitter (t = − 2.11, p = 0.03), and dysphonia severity index (t = 3.24, p = 0.002) in the VT group were better than those in the VM group. Conclusions: Both, vocal training and vocal microsurgery could improve the voice quality of patients with early vocal fold polyp, and these methods present different advantages.

Resumo Introdução: O pólipo de prega vocal é uma doença proliferativa benigna da camada superficial da lâmina própria da prega vocal e a microfonocirurgia pode melhorar a qualidade vocal desses pacientes. Em estudos preliminares, observamos que o treinamento vocal era capaz de melhorar a qualidade vocal de pacientes com pólipo incipiente de prega vocal. Objetivo: Este estudo teve como objetivo comparar a eficiência entre treinamento vocal e microfonocirurgia em pacientes com pólipo incipiente de prega vocal. Método: Um total de 38 pacientes com pólipo incipiente de prega vocal foram submetidos a três meses de treinamento vocal (grupo TV); outros 31 pacientes foram submetidos à microfonocirurgia (grupo MC). Todos os indivíduos foram avaliados por meio de laringoestroboscopia, índice de desvantagem vocal e índice de severidade da disfonia e a eficácia entre treinamento vocal e microfonocirurgia foi comparada. Resultados: As taxas de cura do treinamento vocal e da microfonocirurgia foram de 31,6% (12/38) e 100% (31/31), respectivamente. O teste t para amostras pareadas intragrupo mostrou que o índice de desvantagem vocal pós-tratamento, tempo máximo de fonação, frequência máxima, intensidade mínima e índice de severidade da disfonia nos grupos TV e MC foram melhores do que aqueles antes do tratamento, exceto pelo valor do jitter. O teste t para amostras independentes intergrupos revelou que o valor emocional do índice de desvantagem vocal (t = -2,22, p = 0,03), tempo máximo de fonação (t = 2,54, p = 0,013), jitter (t = -2,11, p = 0,03) e índice de severidade da disfonia (t = 3,24, p = 0,002) no grupo TV foram melhores do que os do grupo MC. Conclusões: Tanto o treinamento vocal quanto a microfonocirurgia podem melhorar a qualidade da voz de pacientes com pólipo incipiente de prega vocal e esses métodos apresentam diferentes vantagens.

A Study To Correlate Vss And Vhq In Patients With Vertigo Due To Peripheral Vestibular Disorders

There are ample of studies on use of VSS in order to find out the severity of vertigo symptoms, also studies portray the usefulness of VHQ to study the impact of vertigo on lifestyle; however, there is dearth of information on whether there is any correlation between the vertigo symptoms and affection on quality of life (QOL). Hence, the need arises to find out the correlation between VSS and VHQ for the better, documentation of symptoms and affection on QOL, as it will benefit treatment efficacy. METHODS: Sample size was 40. All the patients were given two questionnaires VSS and VHQ, which are self-administered. RESULTS: Correlation was found between total VSS and its dimensions with VHQ using Karl Pearson correlation coefficient method. Thus, we concluded that increase or decrease in the scores of VSS has an effect on the scores of VHQ.

Causes of visual impairment in applications for blindness certificates in a tertiary center of Bihar and its role in health planning

Purpose: To analyze applications for blindness certificates to find causes of visual impairment (VI), handicap, and blindness in a tertiary hospital of Bihar. Methods: Applications for blindness certificates were analyzed over a two-year period. The main cause of blindness, visual handicap, and VI in these applications was ascertained by age group and etiology. VI disability percentages and definitions proposed by Governmen of India (category 0� 20�0%) were used to categorize and give percentage to all applicants. Results were compared with data from studies on blindness certificates and population based studies. Results: In total, 203 applicants were reviewed. Mean age was 23.5 � 7.9 years. Overall, most common cause of visual handicap (40�0% impairment) and blindness (75�0% impairment) was macular pathology (P <.05), while most common cause of overall VI (20�0% impairment) was amblyopia. In age group 0� years, most common causes of blindness/visual handicap were congenital globe and hereditary retinal or optic nerve disorders (P = 0.016). In age group 16� years, macular pathology was the most common cause of visual handicap [P = 0.007], while amblyopia was the most common cause of VI [P = 0.00]. Between 31 and 45 years of age group, corneal scar in one eye was the most common cause of VI, while macular scar in both eyes was the most common cause of visual handicap. Glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy were the most common causes of blindness/visual handicap between 46 and 65 years and above 65 years of age, respectively. Data about causes of VI such as amblyopia, complicated cataract surgery, and one eyed blindness could not be ascertained by analyzing blindness certificate alone. Conclusion: Data from applications for blindness certificates provide valuable information regarding different causes of VI that might otherwise not be eligible for blindness certification and provide an insight into the overall trends in disease profile and service delivery.

The application of pediatric voice handicap index in children with voice disorders / 中华耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

Objective@#To access the influence of voice disorders on children′s voice-related quality of life through the parental version of pediatric voice handicap index (pVHI).@*Methods@#From April 2017 to March 2018, a total of 192 children with voice disorders (dysphonic group) and 111 children without voice disorders (control group) were enrolled in this work. Parents of children in both groups were asked for fill out the questionnaire containing the parental version of pVHI and the data of non-normal distribution were analyzed by Mann-Whitney U test. Spearman test was used for correlation analysis.@*Results@#(1)Vocal cord nodule was the most common voice disorder in children, and boys were more susceptible to voice disorder than girls in this study (70.3%(135/192) vs 29.7%(57/192)). (2)The most common voice abuse or misuse habit was "Shouting loudly". (3)In dysphonic group, the scores of function, physiology, emotion and total were higher than those in control group (all P<0.05). (4)In dysphonic group, there was a weak correlation between the parents′ overall evaluation of the children′s voice status and the three dimensions of the parental version of pVHI (function: r=0.339, physiology: r=0.334, emotion: r=0.208, all P<0.001).@*Conclusions@#Voice disorders can cause a negative impact on children′s quality of life. Parental version of pVHI can be used to assess the voice-related quality of life in children with voice disorders.