OD PĘCZKA KOMÓREK SŁUCHOWYCH DO BŁONY BĘBENKOWEJ

Abstract

BackgroundAn earlier oscillator model for the generation of spontaneous otoacoustic emissions (SOAEs) from the lizard ear is extended with a connection of the oscillators to the basilar papilla, to make it possible that these SOAEs can be transported to the tympanic membrane, to be emitted.Material and methodsThe generators of spontaneous otoacoustic emissions are modelled as a one-dimensional array of Hopf-resonators. The resonators (or oscillators) are coupled to their neighbours, and to the basilar papilla. The papilla is modelled as a rigid structure, that is flexibly connected to its surroundings.ResultsFrequency spectra are given for different sets of coupling parameters, both for nearest neighbour coupling of the oscillators, and for coupling to the papilla, and also after the introduction of irregularities in the damping of the oscillators. Waterfall and density plots show clustering of the oscillators in frequency plateaus, and entrainment of a cluster of oscillators by an externally applied sinusoidal force. All these model outcomes correspond with characteristics of SOAEs emitted by real lizard ears.ConclusionsThe present model is a useful extension of an earlier model. Because its characteristics differ from that of a model that is used to describe the generation of SOAEs by mammalian ears, it revives the discussion whether different models are needed for SOAE generation in different animal species.