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University Physiologist Tel: +44 (0)1223 333829, Fax: +44 (0)1223 333840, E-mail: mjm68@cam.ac.uk
Lavender, D., Taraskin, S.N. & Mason, M.J. (2011) Mass distribution and rotational inertia of "microtype" and "freely mobile" middle ear ossicles in rodents. Hearing Research 282: 97-107.
In this paper, we examine the ear ossicles of mice, rats, several species of hamsters and the mouse-like hamster Calomyscus, with a view to interpreting their function and evolution. Using data from micro-CT scans, we calculate the moments of inertia of these ossicles about the "anatomical" axis extending from anterior process of the malleus to the short process of the incus. We apply these values into the Hemilä et al. (2005) model of middle ear function, to see whether predictions of high-frequency hearing limits are improved when the morphology of "microtype" ossicles, as found in several of these species, is more accurately represented. We also calculate principal axes for these ossicles and discuss alternative interpretations of ossicular function.
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