Volume 22 Issue 9

- Article 1: NTID Announces Major Changes - One of a Series of Articles on the Awakening Oral Hearing Loss Community
- Article 2: Gene Therapy is First Deafness 'Cure'
- Article 3: TV Stations Fined for Lack of Captioning
- Article 4: Telecoils in Plain Language
- Classifieds: One Pager Vendor, one Card Vendor, one Conference, and two Employment Opportunities
- Contact Information and Disclaimers

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Contact information and disclaimers are at the end of this newsletter.
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- Article 1: NTID Announces Major Changes - One of a Series of Articles on the Awakening Oral Hearing Loss Community
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Editor: Last week we began a series of articles that point out encouraging signs that the needs of members of the oral hearing loss community (my term for people with hearing loss who prefer oral communication, including hard of hearing, late-deafened, and oral deaf folks) are finally being acknowledged and addressed. This article addresses one such change recently announced by the National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID).

NTID is a college within the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), and has a long and proud tradition as one of the major Deaf education centers in the US. Now it seems they are recognizing and responding to increasing demands for access by members of the oral hearing loss community; they are greatly increasing their capability to provide text-based transliteration services for those students "who do not benefit from sign language transliteration services".

We at Hearing Loss Web applaud their decision to accommodate a student population that is increasingly relying on hearing aids and cochlear implants, in addition to sign language. However we believe that real time captioning (CART) is far superior to the C-Print option that NTID proposes. CART provides a verbatim transcription of the spoken message, while C-Print does not. According to the NTID website (http://www.ntid.rit.edu/cprint/how_cprint.php), "The [C-Print] captionist includes as much information as possible, generally providing a meaning-for-meaning (not verbatim) translation of the spoken English content."

Just as members of the Deaf community are entitled to a signed message that is as nearly equivalent to the spoken message as possible, members of the oral hearing loss community are entitled to a text message that is as nearly equivalent to the spoken message as possible. We strongly encourage NTID to rethink this discriminatory policy.

Here are excerpts from the press release. For the full release please point your browser to http://www.ntid.rit.edu/media/full_text.php?article_id=362

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ROCHESTER, N.Y., Feb. 11-The National Technical Institute for the Deaf, a college of Rochester Institute of Technology, has announced a new plan that reflects bold and significant changes with its academic programs, access services and outreach efforts to more closely align with deaf and hard-of-hearing students' needs.

[snip]

Students who know sign language and can benefit from sign language transliteration, notetaking, and/or assistive listening systems as access accommodations can request them. For those students taking courses in the other RIT colleges who do not benefit from sign language transliteration services, an alternative accommodation will be provided and will be based on an individual assessment of student need and on consideration of that need in relationship to the educational context. For most of these students, a text-based transliteration service, such as C-Print, will be provided.

To address these changing and growing needs, NTID will significantly expand C-print resources, as well as add more interpreters.

"In order to accomplish this goal, we will be significantly increasing access services, human resources, investing in new technology and conducting research on the effectiveness of various access services," Hurwitz said. "We recognize that each student is an individual with unique needs. As hearing aid technology continues to improve, in addition to the increasing use of cochlear implants, students are using their hearing more than they ever have in the past, which changes their needs for support."

[snip]

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- Article 2: Gene Therapy is First Deafness 'Cure'
By Andy Coghlan
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Editor: We've been closely following hair cell regeneration progress, and reporting on each major breakthrough. We recently reported that scientists have been able to regrow hair cells. We now learn that the regrown hair cells do, in fact, function in what appears to be the same manner as normal hair cells. And the reported hearing threshold levels are astounding!

Here's a great article with all the details. It is reprinted with the generous permission of the New Scientist. By the way, those of you who are interested in science will be fascinated by many of the wonderful stories at http://www.newscientist.com

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"It's the first time anyone has biologically repaired the hearing of animals," says Yehoash Raphael at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and head of the US-Japanese team that developed the technique.

The therapy promotes the regrowth of crucial hair cells in the cochlea, the part of the inner ear which registers sound. After treatment, the researchers used sensory electrodes around the animals' heads to show that the auditory nerves of treated - but not untreated - animals were now registering sound.

Deafness is a major problem in people: millions of people worldwide become deaf or hearing impaired every year. This can occur if a person's inner-ear hair cells are destroyed by exposure to loud noise, to some antibiotic drugs, or simply through old age. The hair cells act like miniature microphones, capturing sound vibrations from fluid in the ear and translating the movement into nerve signals.

Raphael says one future possibility would be to use the therapy to improve hearing in people who already wear cochlear implants. These electrical devices are of some help to people lacking hair cells, but the regrowth of even some hairs could boost their hearing further. Raphael says that the next experiments in guinea pigs will focus on this combination.

Gene smuggler

Raphael's team first gave the guinea pigs antibiotics which destroyed their inner-ear hair cells. They then apparently repaired the damage by injecting them with genetically engineered adenoviruses.

The viruses had been engineered to be harmless while also smuggling a gene called Atoh1 into cells lining the scala media - the key chamber of the cochlea, containing the hair cells. Atoh1, also known as Math1, makes a signalling molecule known to orchestrate the development of hair cells in embryos.

The experiment worked beyond expectation. "The recovery of hair cells brought the treated ears to between 50% and 80% of their original hearing thresholds," says Raphael. Even more surprising, the team found that the hair cells were created from cells lining the scala media which, according to biological orthodoxy - should not be able to turn into other cells.

Stem cells to hair cells

Raphael warns that there are many obstacles to overcome before the procedure could be used in people. For example, the scala media is buried deep within human skulls, making it virtually inaccessible by surgery. And there is also a possibility that human immune systems could react against the viruses.

Another approach to regrowing the hair cells is to use embryonic stem cells, with research in this area led by Stefan Heller and colleagues at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary in Boston, US.

Heller's team produced the inner-ear hair cells by exposing embryonic cells in the lab to chemical factors which steer the natural development of hair cells. The team then implanted them into chicken embryos and the cells continued to develop just like the native hair cells already present in the chick embryo.

Raphael's work is "extremely important", says Heller, as it shows the hairs can regrow and improve hearing. "There are now at least two possibilities for the development of a cure for deafness. It is highly likely that both approaches or a combination of those will find their way into the clinic within the next decade," he told New Scientist.

Journal reference: Nature Medicine

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- Article 3: TV Stations Fined for Lack of Captioning
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I've reported a couple of times on the lack of emergency captioning during the horrible San Diego wildfires in October 2003. You may recall that I filed a complaint with the FCC against several of the local TV stations for failure to provide appropriate emergency communications access for people with hearing loss. (Note that FCC regulations require that any emergency information that is presented vocally must also be presented visually; they do NOT require that emergency information be captioned. Still, most people incorrectly refer to the requirement as "emergency captioning".)

It took awhile for the complaint to get to the FCC, because the email address had changed, and they didn't forward email to the old address or bounce it. But we finally hooked up. The FCC sent complaints to the stations, with copies to me, and the stations replied in a reasonable time period. They generally claimed that they had complied with the law!

At that point, I attempted to contact the FCC again to determine if I needed to do anything else, but I never received another communication from them. Repeated contact attempts were ignored. So I figured that was my answer, that the case was closed.

Lo and behold! Last Wednesday I got a call from our local paper; they wanted to interview me regarding the FCC fines for failure of the local stations to provide emergency communications access. Somewhat embarrassed, I had to admit I had no idea what they were talking about! So I found out what was going on and had a good interview with the reporter.

The bottom line is that three local stations were fined a total of $65,000 for failure to comply with FCC regulations. Before you proclaim that to be a huge amount of money, remember that the House of Representatives has a bill before it to increase the fine for a single curse word to $500,000! So your elected representatives apparently think that cursing on the air is 18 times as offensive as endangering the lives of people with hearing loss by not providing appropriate emergency communications! That's obscene!

There are currently several other organizations and individuals involved in similar complaints. Hopefully the decision in the San Diego wildfire case is only the first of many.

For the long version of this whole process, please point your browser to:
http://www.hearinglossnetwork.org/serv/advcy/fire/fire.htm

And to read the article in the local paper, have a look at:
http://www.signonsandiego.com/uniontrib/20050224/news_1n24fcc.html

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- Article 4: Telecoils in Plain Language
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Editor: I often refer to the people who read this newsletter as the "movers and shakers" in the hearing loss world, because you are! Because of your deep involvement in this community, you're probably so aware of the advantages of telecoils that you don't think much about them. Unfortunately, many audiologists and hearing aid dispensers continue to provide a lot of hearing aids without telecoils, with the result that many people who could benefit from them are simply unaware of their existence.

Here's a great primer on Telecoils from NVRC News. I encourage you to save it and distribute it to professionals and consumers who might benefit from it! Be sure to credit NVRC News when you do.

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A hearing aid option that is referred to as a telephone switch, telecoil, t-coil or t-switch can sometimes be confusing.

Below is a description of how a telecoil works and how it can benefit a person with hearing loss.

What is a Telecoil? A telecoil is a special circuit inside the hearing aid. It is a small coil of wire designed to pick up a magnetic signal. Telecoils can only fit in two styles of hearing aids: In-The-Ear and Behind-The-Ear aids. The smaller hearing aids are not large enough to fit the telecoil.

How does a Telecoil work? While the microphone on a hearing aid picks up all sounds, the telecoil will only pick up an electromagnetic signal. It turns off the hearing aid microphone, picks up the signal and the hearing aid converts it to sound. This magnetic signal (more technically known as an induction signal) is created from hearing aid compatible telephones and assistive listening systems.

Why is a Telecoil important for the telephone? Many people report feedback (or squealing) when they place the handset of the telephone next to their hearing aid. The telecoil can eliminate this feedback because the hearing aid microphone is turned off and the hearing aid only amplifies the signal coming through the telecoil. Telephone handsets emit the magnetic signal from the ear-piece. When placed correctly near the telecoil, the sound should be transmitted clearly. That is why some people must place the ear-piece slightly behind their ear rather than directly over the ear.

What else can a Telecoil be used with? Assistive listening systems (either FM systems, audio loops, etc) have a neckloop as a listening option. The neckloop transmits the induction signal for the hearing aid telecoil, so you can turn off all background noise while only hearing the sound going from the FM system's microphone to your FM receiver and neckloop. Audio loop systems also emit the electromagnetic signal so you only have to switch to telecoil to pick up sound.

Are there any problems with using a Telecoil? There are other sources of electro magnetic signals that can interfere with the performance of the hearing aid telecoil. Fluorescent lights, television screens, computer monitors and electrical panels can cause a 'humming' sound when you turn on your telecoil. The humming sound interferes with your ability to hear clearly. Sometimes you can move and the interference is lessened.

Sometimes it is not effective to have both hearing aid telecoils turned on (as when using am FM system) because you may not be able to hear your own voice. You'll only hear what the speaker is saying. If you need to hear classroom discussion, etc., you have two choices. One is to have an M/T switch on your hearing aid that allows the microphone to stay on at the same time the telecoil is operating. Another option is to turn only one aid on telecoil so that you can monitor other sounds in the room. A third option is to use an FM system with a built-in environmental microphone that will allow you to pick up sounds near you at the same time you are picking up the speaker's voice.

I've been told Telecoils aren't effective. Is that true? There are telecoils that are not strong. There are also people who don't notice a benefit when trying to use the phone because the phone does not emit a strong enough signal.

There are ways to overcome a weak signal or weak telecoil and allow your hearing aid to perform better. One way is to boost the signal strength by using an amplified telephone. Another way is to use the power of an assistive listening system.

If the volume on your hearing aid seems to drop when you turn on the telecoil, increase the volume on your hearing aid. This will help increase the signal strength. An amplified telephone also boosts the electromagnetic signal so that your telecoil can perform better.

Telecoils are helpful in noisy situations because the hearing aid microphone is turned off and you only pick up the signal you are trying to hear. Without telecoils, your only listening option for an assistive listening system is headphones or earphone.

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- Classifieds
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One Pager Vendor, one Card Vendor, one Conference, and two Employment Opportunities appear in this issue. (Ads appear after this brief table of contents.)

Pagers and Accessories
Deafpager.com

Sign Language Greetings!
Cards and Postcards for All Occasions
Signlanguagegreetings.com

Jewish Deaf Congress Conference 2005
Tampa, Florida
July 3 to 10, 2005

Employment Opportunity 1
Secondary Science Teacher
Idaho School for the Deaf and the Blind (ISDB)
Gooding, Idaho

Employment Opportunity 2
Administrative Officer II
Department of Health and Human Services
Services for Deaf and Hard of Hearing
Wake, NC

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Pagers and Accessories
Deafpager.com
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Deafpager.com has a new Hot Accessories section with the latest and hottest accessories for your Sidekick and Blackberry!

The newest item in our inventory is color bumpers for your Sidekick II - easy to put on, easy to take off! The hard part is trying to decide between Pink or Purple? Maybe it would be easier to decide between Red or Blue? Made up your mind which color you like? Only $8.95 per set!

Still can't make up your mind? Don't worry, we sell sets of three for only $20.95! We also have auto chargers for the Sidekick II for only $7.95! Visit our site for our excellent selection of cases and pouches. We offer qualified customers a Free Sidekick II (after rebates) as well as color Blackberries for qualified customers for $49.99 after rebates. We now have an unlimited data-only plan for the new Motorola A630!

Check all these deals out and more at our website: www.deafpager.com! Email: info@deafpager.com.

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Sign Language Greetings!
Cards and Postcards for All Occasions
Signlanguagegreetings.com
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Welcome to Sign Language Greetings!

Here you can find Greeting cards and postcards with an interpreted message in Sign Language inside or on the back of the card!

Check out our website...
Signlanguagegreetings.com

Stay tuned as we will have more fun cards on the way...!

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Jewish Deaf Congress Conference 2005
Tampa, Florida
July 3 to 10, 2005
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Something exciting is coming to Tampa, Florida in 2005!

It will be a conference of a different kind!

It will be Jewish Deaf Congress Conference 2005 at Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay Hotel (a 4 star property) from July 3 to 10, 2005.

For the first time in JDC history we will have a HANDS-ON conference on Jewish wines, Jewish jewelry, Jewish roots, Jewish cooking and much more.

Participants will be actively involved in activities. Jewish Deaf people and their non-Jewish friends are more than welcome to join & learn "how to do it" while having fun too.

The hotel rates are only $89 a night, no matter how many people in a room. So come and share room with your friends. (psssst, Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay averages $165 a night and its an incredible deal)

Additional information and details can be found at:
www.jdc2005.com
See the website to see what's happening!

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Employment Opportunity 1
Secondary Science Teacher
Idaho School for the Deaf and the Blind (ISDB)
Gooding, Idaho
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SECONDARY TEACHER FOR DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING/SCIENCE

Starting Date: August 2005

Salary Range: Commensurate with education and experience

Benefits: Comprehensive fringe benefit package

Desired Qualifications:
* Idaho Teacher Certification for Deaf and Hard of Hearing or equivalent
* One or more science endorsements
* Additional endorsements are beneficial
* Excellent receptive and expressive skills in American Sign Language
* Minimum of Bachelor's Degree Master's degree preferred
* Experience teaching deaf and/or blind children preferred
* Experience teaching subjects outside of endorsement areas preferred

Duties:
* Assumes responsibility for providing a quality science program
* Maintains discipline within the classroom
* Works with teachers to develop a continuum of educational activities throughout the curriculum
* Attends IEP meetings and other meetings required for the delivery of educational services
* Participates in committees and other job related activities
* Other duties as assigned

Application Procedures:
Submit the following to:
Human Resources Department
Idaho School for the Deaf and the Blind
1450 Main Street
Gooding, Idaho 83330
* Letter of application
* Copies of certification
* Three letters of recommendation
* Official transcripts
* Resume

Deadline: Open until filled

Location:
* Idaho School for the Deaf and the Blind is located in Gooding, Idaho (population 3,500); a small agricultural community located in south central Idaho within a short distance to mountains, rivers and related outdoor activities. The city of Gooding is a quiet family oriented community. For more information about Idaho School for the Deaf and the Blind check our website at: www. Isdb.state.id.us

For more information contact:
* Human resources Department at 208-934-4457 (Voice/TTY) or email sherry.hann@isdb.idaho.gov

Successful candidate will be required to furnish a background check within three months of employment as per Idaho Code 33-130.

Hiring is done without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age or disability. In addition, preference may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulations. If you need special accommodations to satisfy testing requirements, please contact the Human resources Department.

Idaho School for the Deaf and the Blind (ISDB)

Serving Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Blind and Visually Impaired Students of Idaho since 1906

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Employment Opportunity 2
Administrative Officer II
Department of Health and Human Services
Services for Deaf and Hard of Hearing
Wake, NC
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Position: ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER II
Vacancy Number: 4451-0067-2600-056
Salary Grade: 70
Salary Range: $31451 - $51044
Department: DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES
Division: SERVICES FOR DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING
Type of Appointment: Perm Full-Time
Location: WAKE
Posting Date: 02/17/2005
Closing Date: 03/02/2005
Number of Positions: 1

Description of Work
This position will manage all purchasing, including E-procurement, P-Card reconciliation and contracting functions for the Division. Contracts run into millions of dollars annually. The position will assist program managers in the procurement of professional and personal services contracts. The position will represent the Division at the Department's Center of Excellence contract meetings. Position is also responsible for training others in how to complete contracts, reviewing for accuracy and advising on contract development. Position will also assist program staff in development and management of grants.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Graduation from a four year college or university and three years experience in personnel, budgeting, research or administrative management, preferably involving participation in the planning and management of a business or governmental program; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Preferred additional Knowledge, skills and abilities
Knowledge of such areas as contract administration, sign language, human services provision, Deaf, Hard of Hearing or Deaf-Blind issues are a plus.

Training and Experience Requirements
Graduation from a four year college or university and three years experience in personnel, budgeting, research, or administrative management preferably involving participation in the planning and management of a business or governmental program; or an equivalent of education and experience.

***THIS POSTING PENDING CLASSIFICATION APPROVAL*****

How to Apply:
All applicants must submit a State Application for Employment (PD-107) to the contact person at the Human Resources Office indicated on the vacancy announcement. A separate application must be submitted for each individual position for which you are applying and must include the specific position title and position number. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completing a state application. Applications must be received by 5:00 p.m. on the closing date. Postmarked applications will not be accepted.

Job postings and the State application for Employment (PD-107) may be found at public libraries, local Employment Security Commissions, DHHS Human Resources Offices, or at: http://www.osp.state.nc.us/jobs/gnrlinfo.htm

Contact Person: DIANA SIMMONS
Contact Agency: DHHS-SV DEAF/HEARING
Contact Address:
2301 MAIL SERVICE CENTER
319 CHAPANOKE ROAD, #108
RALEIGH, NC 27699-2301
Contact Phone: 919-661-4810
Contact Fax: 919-773-2990

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- Contact Information and Disclaimers
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We are very interested in your comments concerning the content and format of this newsletter. We want this publication to be useful to you. Please send your comments and suggestions to: hearinglossweb@hearinglossweb.com

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