Popis: |
Theoretical and experimental evidence supports the hypothesis that the VIIIth nerve action potential is a precise summation of individual neuron responses. Based on this concept, the action potential, as measured at the round window was altered in a predictably reproducible manner, by the addition of narrow frequency bands of masking noise. Rat and guinea pig cochleas were studied by means of an analytic method described by Teas, Eldredge and Davis. The latency and amplitude of the VIIIth nerve action potential were compared by analysis of variants for variable stimulus intensity and noise band frequency; in addition, interspecies variability was characterized. Results are discussed in light of known anatomic and behavioral data. Applications to human electrocochleography are discussed. |