In an effort to unify research into noise-induced hearing loss, a University of Texas at Dallas professor of audiology recently led the creation of a special journal issue focused solely on that topic. The November issue of The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America features 33 articles that examine various methods and practices regarding the research of noise-induced hearing loss. Le Prell also said nonmilitary job-related noise-induced hearing loss, as well as hearing issues resulting from loud music, continue to be major problems. Much of the current research on noise-induced hearing loss focuses on drugs that have the potential to restore some hearing when given before or immediately after exposure to loud noise. Le Prell said there is more research than ever before regarding the use of drug therapy to curb noise-induced hearing loss.