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论文类型：期刊论文

发表时间：2016-06-14

发表刊物：JOURNAL OF BIOMECHANICS

收录刊物：SCIE、EI、PubMed

卷号：49

期号：9

页面范围：1532-1539

ISSN号：0021-9290

关键字：The utriculo-endolymphatic valve; Semicircular canal; Finite element; Fluid structural interaction

摘要：The utriculo-endolymphatic valve (UEV) has an uncertain function, but its opening and closure have been predicted to maintain a constant endolymphatic pressure within the semicircular canals (SCCs) and the utricle of the inner ear. Here, the study's aim was to examine the role of the UEV in regulating the capabilities of the 3 SCCs in sensing angular acceleration by using the finite element method. The results of the developed model showed endolymphatic flow and cupula displacement patterns in good agreement with previous experiments. Moreover, the open valve was predicted to permit endolymph exchange between the 2 parts of the membranous labyrinth during head rotation and, in comparison to the closed valve, to result in a reinforced endolymph flow in the utricle and an enhanced or weakened cupula deflection. Further, the model predicted an increase in the size of the orifice would result in greater endolymph exchange and thereby to a greater impact on cupula deflection. The model findings suggest the UEV plays a crucial role in the preservation of inner ear sensory function. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.