The Characteristics of Adults with Severe Hearing Loss.

Related Articles

The Characteristics of Adults with Severe Hearing Loss.

J Am Acad Audiol. 2018 Sep;29(8):764-779

Authors: Souza P, Hoover E, Blackburn M, Gallun F

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Severe hearing loss impairs communication in a wide range of listening environments. However, we lack data as to the specific objective and subjective abilities of listeners with severe hearing loss. Insight into those abilities may inform treatment choices.
PURPOSE: The primary goal was to describe the audiometric profiles, spectral resolution ability, and objective and subjective speech perception of a sample of adult listeners with severe hearing loss, and to consider the relationships among those measures. We also considered the typical fitting received by individuals with severe loss, in terms of hearing aid style, electroacoustic characteristics, and features, as well as supplementary device use.
RESEARCH DESIGN: A within-subjects design was used.
STUDY SAMPLE: Participants included 36 adults aged 54-93 yr with unilateral or bilateral severe hearing loss.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Testing included a full hearing and hearing aid history; audiometric evaluation; loudness growth and dynamic range; spectral resolution; assessment of cochlear dead regions; objective and subjective assessment of speech recognition; and electroacoustic evaluation of current hearing aids. Regression models were used to analyze relationships between hearing loss, spectral resolution, and speech recognition.
RESULTS: For speech in quiet, 60% of the variance was approximately equally accounted for by amount of hearing loss, spectral resolution, and number of dead regions. For speech in noise, only a modest proportion of performance variance was explained by amount of hearing loss. In general, participants were wearing amplification of appropriate style and technology for their hearing loss, but the extent of assistive technology use was low. Subjective communication ratings depended on the listening situation, but in general, were similar to previously published data for adults with mild-to-moderate loss who did not wear hearing aids.
CONCLUSIONS: The present data suggest that the range of abilities of an individual can be more fully captured with comprehensive testing. Such testing also offers an opportunity for informed counseling regarding realistic expectations for hearing aid use and the availability of hearing assistive technology.

PMID: 30222545 [PubMed - in process]

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2pk2w7x
via IFTTT

Transient Otoacoustic Emissions and Auditory Brainstem Responses in Low-Risk Cohort of Newborn and One-Month-Old Infants: Assessment of Infant Auditory System Physiology in the Prenatal Alcohol in SIDS and Stillbirth Network Safe Passage Study.

Related Articles

Transient Otoacoustic Emissions and Auditory Brainstem Responses in Low-Risk Cohort of Newborn and One-Month-Old Infants: Assessment of Infant Auditory System Physiology in the Prenatal Alcohol in SIDS and Stillbirth Network Safe Passage Study.

J Am Acad Audiol. 2018 Sep;29(8):748-763

Authors: Sininger YS, Condon CG, Hoffman HJ, Elliott AJ, Odendaal HJ, Burd LL, Myers MM, Fifer WP, PASS Network

Abstract
BACKGROUND: The Prenatal Alcohol and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and Stillbirth Network, known as the "Safe Passage Study," enrolled approximately 12,000 pregnant women from the United States and South Africa and followed the development of their babies through pregnancy and the infant's first year of life to investigate the role of prenatal alcohol exposure in the risk for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as stillbirth and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.
PURPOSE: Auditory system tests were included in the physiologic test battery used to study the effects of prenatal alcohol exposure on neurophysiology and neurodevelopment, as well as potential causal relationships between neurodevelopmental disorders and SIDS and/or stillbirth. The purpose of this manuscript is to describe normative results when using the auditory test battery applied.
RESEARCH DESIGN: The test battery included the auditory brainstem response (ABR) and transient-evoked otoacoustic emissions (TEOAEs). Data were collected on individual ears of newborns and 1-month-old infants.
STUDY SAMPLE: From a cohort of 6,070 with auditory system exams, a normative subsample of 325 infants were selected who were not exposed prenatally to alcohol, cigarette smoke, or drugs nor were they preterm or low birthweight. The subsample is small relative to the overall study because of strict criteria for no exposure to substances known to be associated with SIDS or stillbirth and the exclusion of preterm and low birthweight infants. Expectant mothers were recruited from general maternity at two comprehensive clinical sites, in the northern plains in the United States and in Cape Town, South Africa. These populations were selected for study because both were known to be at high-risk for SIDS and stillbirth.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: ABR and TEOAE recordings were stored electronically. Peak latency and amplitude analysis of ABRs were determined by study personnel, and results were evaluated for differences by age, sex, test site, race, and ear (left versus right).
RESULTS: TEOAE findings were consistent with existing literature including the increase in signal-to-noise (SNR) over the first month of life. The SNR increase is due to an increase in amplitude of the emission. TEOAE amplitude asymmetry favoring the right ear was found, whereas SNR asymmetry was not, perhaps because of the small sample size. A nonsignificant trend toward larger responses in female babies was found; a result that is generally statistically significant in studies with larger samples. Latencies were found to be shorter in ABRs elicited in the right ear with amplitudes that were slightly bigger on average. An expected decrease in wave V latency was observed from birth to 1-month of age, but the finding was of borderline significance (p = 0.058).
CONCLUSIONS: One month is a short time to judge development of the auditory system; however, the ABR and TEOAE findings were consistent with current literature. We conclude that the auditory system data acquired for the Safe Passage Study, as reflected in the data obtained from this cohort of "unexposed" infants, is consistent with published reports of these auditory system measures in the general population.

PMID: 30222544 [PubMed - in process]

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2MM2VIU
via IFTTT

Listening Effort: Order Effects and Core Executive Functions.

Related Articles

Listening Effort: Order Effects and Core Executive Functions.

J Am Acad Audiol. 2018 Sep;29(8):734-747

Authors: Brännström KJ, Karlsson E, Waechter S, Kastberg T

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Listening effort seems to depend on input-related listening demands and several factors internal to the individual listener. Input-related demands may be listening in noise compared with listening in quiet, and internal factors may be cognitive functions.
PURPOSE: The purpose was to apply measures of listening effort and perceived listening effort in participants with normal hearing, to determine if there are any presentation order effects, and to explore the relationship between listening effort measured as accuracy, response times, efficiency of information encoding into long-term memory, perceived listening effort, and core executive functions.
RESEARCH DESIGN: A within-subject design with repeated measures was used and a study of relationships between variables was made.
STUDY SAMPLE: Thirty-two healthy adults with normal hearing.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Participants were tested individually by a listening task using a dual-task paradigm. The listening task was performed in quiet and in multitalker babble noise at 10 dB signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Perceived listening effort and core executive functions (working memory, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility) were also assessed.
RESULTS: The measures of listening effort (correct responses, response times, and immediate and delayed listening comprehension) failed to demonstrate increased listening effort in multitalker babble noise (10 dB SNR) compared with quiet, although a significant test order effect was seen for correct responses indicating that participants who first listened in noise did not improve in quiet. Perceived listening effort increased significantly in noise compared with quiet. No relationship was found between measures of listening effort and ratings of perceived listening effort. Working memory and cognitive flexibility were not related to ratings of perceived listening effort. In contrast, better inhibitory control was related to higher ratings in both quiet and in noise.
CONCLUSIONS: It is possible that the SNR and measures used were not as sensitive as required to measure listening effort behaviorally. In the present experimental setup, prior noise exposure impedes the beneficial effects of performing a task in quiet. Self-reports seem to provide a valid measure of perceived listening effort that is related to the individual's inhibitory control. The present findings suggest that participants with better inhibitory control are more susceptible to the task demand level both in quiet and in noise.

PMID: 30222543 [PubMed - in process]

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2pk2KLV
via IFTTT

Cochlear Implant Practice Patterns: The U.S. Trends with Pediatric Patients.

Related Articles

Cochlear Implant Practice Patterns: The U.S. Trends with Pediatric Patients.

J Am Acad Audiol. 2018 Sep;29(8):722-733

Authors: Hemmingson C, Messersmith JJ

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Many factors affect an individual's outcomes with a cochlear implant (CI); however, quality of device programming and consistency of follow-up appointments have been shown to be crucial contributors. As audiologists' CI caseloads increase, time constraints on appointments also increase, thus fueling the need for efficient and effective programming strategies. Currently, there are no standardized guidelines describing what methods should be used during programming, nor are there standardized schedules that delineate what procedures should be performed at specific appointment intervals. Without standardized programming guidelines, clinical practices may be variable and may not align with best practice research; thus, outcomes with a CI, particularly for pediatrics, may not be reflective of the actual potential available.
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to identify the clinical practice patterns used by U.S. audiologists when programming and providing follow-up care to children who use CIs. This study aimed to determine the following: common programming approaches, provision intervals for these procedures, common validation assessments, typical follow-up care schedules, and source(s) of CI training. In addition, this study sought to evaluate if training and/or follow-up care differed between small and large CI centers.
RESEARCH DESIGN: A cross-sectional survey design was used.
STUDY SAMPLE: Target population included practicing audiologists working with pediatric CI users throughout the United States. Participation was voluntary, thus random selection could not be used. A total of 167 participants opened and began the online survey and 113 successfully completed the survey instrument (23.99% return rate).
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Potential participants were identified using the "find a clinic" function on three CI manufacturers' websites. Potential participants were asked to complete an online survey seeking information about practices they employ in their clinical setting. Survey responses were analyzed for trends.
RESULTS: Overall, a common follow-up schedule was determined, which included an average of 6.8 appointments within the first year. Minor differences in training and programming practices between small and large CI centers emerged; however, no statistically significant results were noted. Results did reveal trends in the use of certain clinical practices. This was particularly evident in the limited use of objective measures.
CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the findings support other recent studies that suggest the development of CI guidelines that may standardize programming and follow-up practices of CI audiologists. This could prove valuable for the continual improvement of CI outcomes, particularly in the pediatric population.

PMID: 30222542 [PubMed - in process]

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2ML0aHU
via IFTTT

Differences in Word and Phoneme Recognition in Quiet, Sentence Recognition in Noise, and Subjective Outcomes between Manufacturer First-Fit and Hearing Aids Programmed to NAL-NL2 Using Real-Ear Measures.

Related Articles

Differences in Word and Phoneme Recognition in Quiet, Sentence Recognition in Noise, and Subjective Outcomes between Manufacturer First-Fit and Hearing Aids Programmed to NAL-NL2 Using Real-Ear Measures.

J Am Acad Audiol. 2018 Sep;29(8):706-721

Authors: Valente M, Oeding K, Brockmeyer A, Smith S, Kallogjeri D

Abstract
BACKGROUND: The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and American Academy of Audiology (AAA) have created Best Practice Guidelines for fitting hearing aids to adult patients. These guidelines recommend using real-ear measures (REM) to verify that measured output/gain of hearing aid(s) match a validated prescriptive target. Unfortunately, approximately 70-80% of audiologists do not routinely use REM when fitting hearing aids, instead relying on a manufacturer default "first-fit" setting. This is problematic because numerous studies report significant differences in REM between manufacturer first-fit and the same hearing aids using a REM or programmed-fit. These studies reported decreased prescribed gain/output in the higher frequencies for the first-fit compared with the programmed fit, which are important for recognizing speech. Currently, there is little research in peer-reviewed journals reporting if differences between hearing aids fitted using a manufacturer first-fit versus a programmed-fit result in significant differences in speech recognition in quiet, noise, and subjective outcomes.
PURPOSE: To examine if significant differences were present in monosyllabic word and phoneme recognition (consonant-nucleus-consonant; CNC) in quiet, sentence recognition in noise (Hearing in Noise Test; HINT), and subjective outcomes using the Abbreviated Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit (APHAB) and the Speech, Spatial and Qualities of Hearing (SSQ) questionnaires between hearing aids fit using one manufacturer's first-fit and the same hearing aids with a programmed-fit using REM to National Acoustic Laboratories Nonlinear Version 2 (NAL-NL2) prescriptive target.
RESEARCH DESIGN: A double-blind randomized crossover design was used. Throughout the study, one investigator performed all REM whereas a second investigator measured speech recognition in quiet, noise, and scored subjective outcome measures.
STUDY SAMPLE: Twenty-four adults with bilateral normal sloping to moderately severe sensorineural hearing loss with no prior experience with amplification.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: The hearing aids were fit using the proprietary manufacturer default first-fit and a programmed-fit to NAL-NL2 using real-ear insertion gain measures. The order of the two fittings was randomly assigned and counterbalanced. Participants acclimatized to each setting for four weeks and returned for assessment of performance via the revised CNC word lists, HINT, APHAB, and SSQ for the respective fitting.
RESULTS: (1) A significant median advantage of 15% (p < 0.001; 95% CI: 9.7-24.3%) for words and 7.7% (p < 0.001; 95% CI: 5.9-10.9%) for phonemes for the programmed-fit compared with first-fit at 50 dB sound pressure level (SPL) and 4% (p < 0.01; 95% CI: 1.7-6.3%) for words at 65 dB SPL; (2) No significant differences for the HINT reception threshold for sentences (RTS); (3) A significant median advantage of 4.2% [p < 0.04; 95% confidence interval (CI): -0.6-13.2%] for the programmed-fit compared with the first-fit for the background noise subscale problem score for the APHAB; (4) No significant differences on the SSQ.
CONCLUSIONS: Improved word and phoneme recognition for soft and words for average speech in quiet were reported for the programmed-fit. Seventy-nine percent of the participants preferred the programmed-fitting versus first-fit. Hearing aids, therefore, should be verified and programmed using REM to a prescriptive target versus no verification using a first-fit.

PMID: 30222541 [PubMed - in process]

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2Oy1Ztr
via IFTTT

An Evaluation of Motivational Interviewing for Increasing Hearing Aid Use: A Pilot Study.

Related Articles

An Evaluation of Motivational Interviewing for Increasing Hearing Aid Use: A Pilot Study.

J Am Acad Audiol. 2018 Sep;29(8):696-705

Authors: Solheim J, Gay C, Lerdal A, Hickson L, Kvaerner KJ

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Motivational interviewing (MI) has been used in consultation settings to motivate hearing aid users to increase hearing aid usage. However, the effect of MI on those who use their hearing aids only rarely or not at all has not been explored.
PURPOSE: The aims of this pilot study were to evaluate the effect of MI counseling with elderly hearing aid recipients found to have low hearing aid use at a six-month follow-up appointment and to describe clients' subjective assessments of their perceived need for hearing aids three months after MI counseling.
RESEARCH DESIGN: The study had a within-subjects pretest-posttest design.
STUDY SAMPLE: Forty seven hearing aid recipients who had used their new hearing aids, an average of <90 min/day, were recruited at a follow-up appointment six months after hearing aid fitting.
INTERVENTION: Thirty minutes of MI counseling was provided at the six-month follow-up appointment. If needed, hearing aid adjustments and technical support were also provided.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: The effect of MI counseling in combination with adjustments and technical support was assessed in relation to datalogged hearing aid use, which was assessed immediately before (at the six-month follow-up) and three months after (at the nine-month follow-up) the intervention. Hearing aid experiences were also assessed three months after MI.
RESULTS: Thirty seven participants (79%) returned for the nine-month follow-up visit and had modest but significant increases in datalogged hearing aid use in the three months following MI counseling. Of the 37 participants who returned, 51% had increased their hearing aid use to at least 2 h/day after the MI counseling. Most of the 37 participants who attended the nine-month follow-up reported increased need for (59%) or increased benefit and contentment with (57%) their hearing aid three months after MI; these participants also had significantly higher datalogged hearing aid use following MI.
CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that follow-up appointments using MI counseling in conjunction with technical support may be useful for increasing hearing aid usage among low-users, and a randomized controlled trial is warranted.

PMID: 30222540 [PubMed - in process]

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2MIyeEJ
via IFTTT

Effects of Secondhand Smoke Exposure on Hearing and Auditory Evoked Potentials, ABR and AMLR in Young Adults.

Related Articles

Effects of Secondhand Smoke Exposure on Hearing and Auditory Evoked Potentials, ABR and AMLR in Young Adults.

J Am Acad Audiol. 2018 Sep;29(8):685-695

Authors: Ramkissoon I, Batavia M

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Population health is impacted by environmental secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure. Although the negative health effects of SHS exposure include respiratory problems in children (nonsmokers) as seen in cigarette smokers, other health impacts such as sensory function are not assumed to be the same for both passive nonsmokers and smokers. However, hearing loss was recently reported in adolescents and aging adults with SHS exposure, suggesting that SHS might impact auditory function similarly to cigarette smoking. Specific effects of SHS exposure on the central auditory system have not been fully described.
PURPOSE: To measure auditory function via pure-tone audiometry and evoked potentials in young nonsmoking adults aged 18-23 yr who reported exposure to environmental SHS.
RESEARCH DESIGN: Participants were selected for the SHS-exposed (SHS-E) group first, followed by age and gender matched individuals for the SHS-unexposed (SHS-U) group. Self-reported nonsmoker status was confirmed by biochemical analysis of urine for cotinine level.
STUDY SAMPLE: Potential participants (N = 208) completed a questionnaire about health, smoking history, SHS exposure, and hearing ability. Individuals with any neurological conditions, alcohol/drug dependencies, excessive noise exposure, using certain medications, or current smokers were excluded. Twenty-two nonsmokers in excellent health consented to participate. Participants in the SHS-E group reported SHS exposure in home, work, or social settings for an extensive time period. Participants in the SHS-U group did not live with smokers and reported no SHS exposure, medication use, tinnitus, or any chemical exposures. Statistical analysis was conducted on data from 20 participants, 10 per group with a mean age of 20 yr.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Participants underwent auditory procedures in one session in an IAC sound-treated room, including otoscopy, tympanometry, pure-tone threshold evaluation, auditory brainstem response per ear, and a three-channel auditory middle latency response in the right ear. The primary study outcomes were hearing thresholds measured (dB HL) at five frequencies, and evoked potential wave latencies (I, III, V, Na, Pa, Nb, Pb) and amplitudes (V-I, Na-Pa, Pa-Nb, Nb-Pb). It was hypothesized that SHS-exposed individuals would have poorer hearing sensitivity (threshold >25 dB HL) and abnormal central auditory function (longer latencies; smaller amplitudes) based on evoked potentials. Statistical analyses focused on identification of group differences in hearing and central auditory function.
RESULTS: All participants had normal hearing sensitivity (thresholds ≤25 dB HL) with no significant group differences. The V/I amplitude ratio in the right ear was significantly decreased in SHS-exposed individuals (p < 0.05). Auditory brainstem response latencies were not significantly different between participant groups or ears. Wave Pb latency was significantly increased in SHS-exposed individuals (p < 0.01). Auditory middle latency response relative amplitudes were significantly different from each other at every electrode site (Cz, Fz, C4) but not between groups. Overall, the Na-Pa complex was highest in amplitude at all three electrode sites.
CONCLUSIONS: This preliminary study indicated toxic effects of SHS exposure by evoked potentials with decreased V/I amplitude ratio and longer (delayed) Pb latency in young adults. Further studies should corroborate these findings to facilitate clinical recommendations.

PMID: 30222539 [PubMed - in process]

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2piWYKu
via IFTTT

A Nonsense Consonant-Vowel-Consonant Word Test to Assess Auditory Processing.

Related Articles

A Nonsense Consonant-Vowel-Consonant Word Test to Assess Auditory Processing.

J Am Acad Audiol. 2018 Sep;29(8):675-684

Authors: Cheyney MN, Moncrieff DW

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Dichotic listening (DL), or how the two ears work together as a team, is often used in the assessment of auditory processing disorders in both children and adults. Currently, the battery of dichotic tests includes stimuli containing words, digits, and nonsense consonant-vowel syllables. Single-syllable nonsense words are of particular use in assessing processing abilities because they can evaluate auditory processing without a listener's dependence on linguistic knowledge. Therefore, nonsense words may assess auditory processes independently of previous vocabulary knowledge.
PURPOSE: This study is designed to assess the clinical applicability and face validity of a nonsense word DL test in a young adult population.
RESEARCH DESIGN: This study included an experimental design to investigate the performance of young adult listeners on a Dichotic Nonsense Word (DNW) test spoken by a male and female speaker. The results were compared with one study that investigated young adult listener's performance on dichotic tests of English words.
STUDY SAMPLE: A total of 100 young adult participants were recruited from the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Pittsburgh to participate in the study. The participants ranged in age from 20 to 30, with an average age of 23, and all participants had normal hearing.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: DL performance was measured in all participants using the Dichotic Words Test (DWT) and the newly developed DNW test. Kolmogorov-Smirnoff tests of normality were used to assess distribution of right- and left-ear scores. Criterion cutoff scores were determined for the percent correct scores in the nondominant ear and dominant ear and for ear advantage.
RESULTS: Scores were significantly different between the two tests in the right ear, Z = -8.258, p < 0.001, and in the left ear, Z = -8.471, p < 0.001. Scores within each test were higher for the right ear than for the left ear, and scores for both ears were significantly lower on the DNW test than for the DWT. Ear advantage scores from the DNW test were significantly larger than those obtained from the DWT. The low and high 95% criterion cutoff ranges for the DNW test were considerably wider than the 95% criterion cutoff ranges for the DWT.
CONCLUSIONS: Results indicate that the new DNW test may be a useful clinical tool within a test battery for evaluating auditory processing skills independent of vocabulary knowledge.

PMID: 30222538 [PubMed - in process]

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2MJeEYT
via IFTTT

First-Fit versus Programmed Fit: Is There Quantifiable Benefit in the Custom Fitting of Hearing Aids?

Related Articles

First-Fit versus Programmed Fit: Is There Quantifiable Benefit in the Custom Fitting of Hearing Aids?

J Am Acad Audiol. 2018 Sep;29(8):674

Authors: Jacobson GP

PMID: 30222537 [PubMed - in process]

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2pk2jBh
via IFTTT

The Characteristics of Adults with Severe Hearing Loss.

Related Articles

The Characteristics of Adults with Severe Hearing Loss.

J Am Acad Audiol. 2018 Sep;29(8):764-779

Authors: Souza P, Hoover E, Blackburn M, Gallun F

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Severe hearing loss impairs communication in a wide range of listening environments. However, we lack data as to the specific objective and subjective abilities of listeners with severe hearing loss. Insight into those abilities may inform treatment choices.
PURPOSE: The primary goal was to describe the audiometric profiles, spectral resolution ability, and objective and subjective speech perception of a sample of adult listeners with severe hearing loss, and to consider the relationships among those measures. We also considered the typical fitting received by individuals with severe loss, in terms of hearing aid style, electroacoustic characteristics, and features, as well as supplementary device use.
RESEARCH DESIGN: A within-subjects design was used.
STUDY SAMPLE: Participants included 36 adults aged 54-93 yr with unilateral or bilateral severe hearing loss.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Testing included a full hearing and hearing aid history; audiometric evaluation; loudness growth and dynamic range; spectral resolution; assessment of cochlear dead regions; objective and subjective assessment of speech recognition; and electroacoustic evaluation of current hearing aids. Regression models were used to analyze relationships between hearing loss, spectral resolution, and speech recognition.
RESULTS: For speech in quiet, 60% of the variance was approximately equally accounted for by amount of hearing loss, spectral resolution, and number of dead regions. For speech in noise, only a modest proportion of performance variance was explained by amount of hearing loss. In general, participants were wearing amplification of appropriate style and technology for their hearing loss, but the extent of assistive technology use was low. Subjective communication ratings depended on the listening situation, but in general, were similar to previously published data for adults with mild-to-moderate loss who did not wear hearing aids.
CONCLUSIONS: The present data suggest that the range of abilities of an individual can be more fully captured with comprehensive testing. Such testing also offers an opportunity for informed counseling regarding realistic expectations for hearing aid use and the availability of hearing assistive technology.

PMID: 30222545 [PubMed - in process]

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2pk2w7x
via IFTTT

Transient Otoacoustic Emissions and Auditory Brainstem Responses in Low-Risk Cohort of Newborn and One-Month-Old Infants: Assessment of Infant Auditory System Physiology in the Prenatal Alcohol in SIDS and Stillbirth Network Safe Passage Study.

Related Articles

Transient Otoacoustic Emissions and Auditory Brainstem Responses in Low-Risk Cohort of Newborn and One-Month-Old Infants: Assessment of Infant Auditory System Physiology in the Prenatal Alcohol in SIDS and Stillbirth Network Safe Passage Study.

J Am Acad Audiol. 2018 Sep;29(8):748-763

Authors: Sininger YS, Condon CG, Hoffman HJ, Elliott AJ, Odendaal HJ, Burd LL, Myers MM, Fifer WP, PASS Network

Abstract
BACKGROUND: The Prenatal Alcohol and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and Stillbirth Network, known as the "Safe Passage Study," enrolled approximately 12,000 pregnant women from the United States and South Africa and followed the development of their babies through pregnancy and the infant's first year of life to investigate the role of prenatal alcohol exposure in the risk for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as stillbirth and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.
PURPOSE: Auditory system tests were included in the physiologic test battery used to study the effects of prenatal alcohol exposure on neurophysiology and neurodevelopment, as well as potential causal relationships between neurodevelopmental disorders and SIDS and/or stillbirth. The purpose of this manuscript is to describe normative results when using the auditory test battery applied.
RESEARCH DESIGN: The test battery included the auditory brainstem response (ABR) and transient-evoked otoacoustic emissions (TEOAEs). Data were collected on individual ears of newborns and 1-month-old infants.
STUDY SAMPLE: From a cohort of 6,070 with auditory system exams, a normative subsample of 325 infants were selected who were not exposed prenatally to alcohol, cigarette smoke, or drugs nor were they preterm or low birthweight. The subsample is small relative to the overall study because of strict criteria for no exposure to substances known to be associated with SIDS or stillbirth and the exclusion of preterm and low birthweight infants. Expectant mothers were recruited from general maternity at two comprehensive clinical sites, in the northern plains in the United States and in Cape Town, South Africa. These populations were selected for study because both were known to be at high-risk for SIDS and stillbirth.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: ABR and TEOAE recordings were stored electronically. Peak latency and amplitude analysis of ABRs were determined by study personnel, and results were evaluated for differences by age, sex, test site, race, and ear (left versus right).
RESULTS: TEOAE findings were consistent with existing literature including the increase in signal-to-noise (SNR) over the first month of life. The SNR increase is due to an increase in amplitude of the emission. TEOAE amplitude asymmetry favoring the right ear was found, whereas SNR asymmetry was not, perhaps because of the small sample size. A nonsignificant trend toward larger responses in female babies was found; a result that is generally statistically significant in studies with larger samples. Latencies were found to be shorter in ABRs elicited in the right ear with amplitudes that were slightly bigger on average. An expected decrease in wave V latency was observed from birth to 1-month of age, but the finding was of borderline significance (p = 0.058).
CONCLUSIONS: One month is a short time to judge development of the auditory system; however, the ABR and TEOAE findings were consistent with current literature. We conclude that the auditory system data acquired for the Safe Passage Study, as reflected in the data obtained from this cohort of "unexposed" infants, is consistent with published reports of these auditory system measures in the general population.

PMID: 30222544 [PubMed - in process]

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2MM2VIU
via IFTTT

Listening Effort: Order Effects and Core Executive Functions.

Related Articles

Listening Effort: Order Effects and Core Executive Functions.

J Am Acad Audiol. 2018 Sep;29(8):734-747

Authors: Brännström KJ, Karlsson E, Waechter S, Kastberg T

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Listening effort seems to depend on input-related listening demands and several factors internal to the individual listener. Input-related demands may be listening in noise compared with listening in quiet, and internal factors may be cognitive functions.
PURPOSE: The purpose was to apply measures of listening effort and perceived listening effort in participants with normal hearing, to determine if there are any presentation order effects, and to explore the relationship between listening effort measured as accuracy, response times, efficiency of information encoding into long-term memory, perceived listening effort, and core executive functions.
RESEARCH DESIGN: A within-subject design with repeated measures was used and a study of relationships between variables was made.
STUDY SAMPLE: Thirty-two healthy adults with normal hearing.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Participants were tested individually by a listening task using a dual-task paradigm. The listening task was performed in quiet and in multitalker babble noise at 10 dB signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Perceived listening effort and core executive functions (working memory, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility) were also assessed.
RESULTS: The measures of listening effort (correct responses, response times, and immediate and delayed listening comprehension) failed to demonstrate increased listening effort in multitalker babble noise (10 dB SNR) compared with quiet, although a significant test order effect was seen for correct responses indicating that participants who first listened in noise did not improve in quiet. Perceived listening effort increased significantly in noise compared with quiet. No relationship was found between measures of listening effort and ratings of perceived listening effort. Working memory and cognitive flexibility were not related to ratings of perceived listening effort. In contrast, better inhibitory control was related to higher ratings in both quiet and in noise.
CONCLUSIONS: It is possible that the SNR and measures used were not as sensitive as required to measure listening effort behaviorally. In the present experimental setup, prior noise exposure impedes the beneficial effects of performing a task in quiet. Self-reports seem to provide a valid measure of perceived listening effort that is related to the individual's inhibitory control. The present findings suggest that participants with better inhibitory control are more susceptible to the task demand level both in quiet and in noise.

PMID: 30222543 [PubMed - in process]

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2pk2KLV
via IFTTT

Cochlear Implant Practice Patterns: The U.S. Trends with Pediatric Patients.

Related Articles

Cochlear Implant Practice Patterns: The U.S. Trends with Pediatric Patients.

J Am Acad Audiol. 2018 Sep;29(8):722-733

Authors: Hemmingson C, Messersmith JJ

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Many factors affect an individual's outcomes with a cochlear implant (CI); however, quality of device programming and consistency of follow-up appointments have been shown to be crucial contributors. As audiologists' CI caseloads increase, time constraints on appointments also increase, thus fueling the need for efficient and effective programming strategies. Currently, there are no standardized guidelines describing what methods should be used during programming, nor are there standardized schedules that delineate what procedures should be performed at specific appointment intervals. Without standardized programming guidelines, clinical practices may be variable and may not align with best practice research; thus, outcomes with a CI, particularly for pediatrics, may not be reflective of the actual potential available.
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to identify the clinical practice patterns used by U.S. audiologists when programming and providing follow-up care to children who use CIs. This study aimed to determine the following: common programming approaches, provision intervals for these procedures, common validation assessments, typical follow-up care schedules, and source(s) of CI training. In addition, this study sought to evaluate if training and/or follow-up care differed between small and large CI centers.
RESEARCH DESIGN: A cross-sectional survey design was used.
STUDY SAMPLE: Target population included practicing audiologists working with pediatric CI users throughout the United States. Participation was voluntary, thus random selection could not be used. A total of 167 participants opened and began the online survey and 113 successfully completed the survey instrument (23.99% return rate).
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Potential participants were identified using the "find a clinic" function on three CI manufacturers' websites. Potential participants were asked to complete an online survey seeking information about practices they employ in their clinical setting. Survey responses were analyzed for trends.
RESULTS: Overall, a common follow-up schedule was determined, which included an average of 6.8 appointments within the first year. Minor differences in training and programming practices between small and large CI centers emerged; however, no statistically significant results were noted. Results did reveal trends in the use of certain clinical practices. This was particularly evident in the limited use of objective measures.
CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the findings support other recent studies that suggest the development of CI guidelines that may standardize programming and follow-up practices of CI audiologists. This could prove valuable for the continual improvement of CI outcomes, particularly in the pediatric population.

PMID: 30222542 [PubMed - in process]

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2ML0aHU
via IFTTT

Differences in Word and Phoneme Recognition in Quiet, Sentence Recognition in Noise, and Subjective Outcomes between Manufacturer First-Fit and Hearing Aids Programmed to NAL-NL2 Using Real-Ear Measures.

Related Articles

Differences in Word and Phoneme Recognition in Quiet, Sentence Recognition in Noise, and Subjective Outcomes between Manufacturer First-Fit and Hearing Aids Programmed to NAL-NL2 Using Real-Ear Measures.

J Am Acad Audiol. 2018 Sep;29(8):706-721

Authors: Valente M, Oeding K, Brockmeyer A, Smith S, Kallogjeri D

Abstract
BACKGROUND: The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and American Academy of Audiology (AAA) have created Best Practice Guidelines for fitting hearing aids to adult patients. These guidelines recommend using real-ear measures (REM) to verify that measured output/gain of hearing aid(s) match a validated prescriptive target. Unfortunately, approximately 70-80% of audiologists do not routinely use REM when fitting hearing aids, instead relying on a manufacturer default "first-fit" setting. This is problematic because numerous studies report significant differences in REM between manufacturer first-fit and the same hearing aids using a REM or programmed-fit. These studies reported decreased prescribed gain/output in the higher frequencies for the first-fit compared with the programmed fit, which are important for recognizing speech. Currently, there is little research in peer-reviewed journals reporting if differences between hearing aids fitted using a manufacturer first-fit versus a programmed-fit result in significant differences in speech recognition in quiet, noise, and subjective outcomes.
PURPOSE: To examine if significant differences were present in monosyllabic word and phoneme recognition (consonant-nucleus-consonant; CNC) in quiet, sentence recognition in noise (Hearing in Noise Test; HINT), and subjective outcomes using the Abbreviated Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit (APHAB) and the Speech, Spatial and Qualities of Hearing (SSQ) questionnaires between hearing aids fit using one manufacturer's first-fit and the same hearing aids with a programmed-fit using REM to National Acoustic Laboratories Nonlinear Version 2 (NAL-NL2) prescriptive target.
RESEARCH DESIGN: A double-blind randomized crossover design was used. Throughout the study, one investigator performed all REM whereas a second investigator measured speech recognition in quiet, noise, and scored subjective outcome measures.
STUDY SAMPLE: Twenty-four adults with bilateral normal sloping to moderately severe sensorineural hearing loss with no prior experience with amplification.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: The hearing aids were fit using the proprietary manufacturer default first-fit and a programmed-fit to NAL-NL2 using real-ear insertion gain measures. The order of the two fittings was randomly assigned and counterbalanced. Participants acclimatized to each setting for four weeks and returned for assessment of performance via the revised CNC word lists, HINT, APHAB, and SSQ for the respective fitting.
RESULTS: (1) A significant median advantage of 15% (p < 0.001; 95% CI: 9.7-24.3%) for words and 7.7% (p < 0.001; 95% CI: 5.9-10.9%) for phonemes for the programmed-fit compared with first-fit at 50 dB sound pressure level (SPL) and 4% (p < 0.01; 95% CI: 1.7-6.3%) for words at 65 dB SPL; (2) No significant differences for the HINT reception threshold for sentences (RTS); (3) A significant median advantage of 4.2% [p < 0.04; 95% confidence interval (CI): -0.6-13.2%] for the programmed-fit compared with the first-fit for the background noise subscale problem score for the APHAB; (4) No significant differences on the SSQ.
CONCLUSIONS: Improved word and phoneme recognition for soft and words for average speech in quiet were reported for the programmed-fit. Seventy-nine percent of the participants preferred the programmed-fitting versus first-fit. Hearing aids, therefore, should be verified and programmed using REM to a prescriptive target versus no verification using a first-fit.

PMID: 30222541 [PubMed - in process]

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2Oy1Ztr
via IFTTT

An Evaluation of Motivational Interviewing for Increasing Hearing Aid Use: A Pilot Study.

Related Articles

An Evaluation of Motivational Interviewing for Increasing Hearing Aid Use: A Pilot Study.

J Am Acad Audiol. 2018 Sep;29(8):696-705

Authors: Solheim J, Gay C, Lerdal A, Hickson L, Kvaerner KJ

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Motivational interviewing (MI) has been used in consultation settings to motivate hearing aid users to increase hearing aid usage. However, the effect of MI on those who use their hearing aids only rarely or not at all has not been explored.
PURPOSE: The aims of this pilot study were to evaluate the effect of MI counseling with elderly hearing aid recipients found to have low hearing aid use at a six-month follow-up appointment and to describe clients' subjective assessments of their perceived need for hearing aids three months after MI counseling.
RESEARCH DESIGN: The study had a within-subjects pretest-posttest design.
STUDY SAMPLE: Forty seven hearing aid recipients who had used their new hearing aids, an average of <90 min/day, were recruited at a follow-up appointment six months after hearing aid fitting.
INTERVENTION: Thirty minutes of MI counseling was provided at the six-month follow-up appointment. If needed, hearing aid adjustments and technical support were also provided.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: The effect of MI counseling in combination with adjustments and technical support was assessed in relation to datalogged hearing aid use, which was assessed immediately before (at the six-month follow-up) and three months after (at the nine-month follow-up) the intervention. Hearing aid experiences were also assessed three months after MI.
RESULTS: Thirty seven participants (79%) returned for the nine-month follow-up visit and had modest but significant increases in datalogged hearing aid use in the three months following MI counseling. Of the 37 participants who returned, 51% had increased their hearing aid use to at least 2 h/day after the MI counseling. Most of the 37 participants who attended the nine-month follow-up reported increased need for (59%) or increased benefit and contentment with (57%) their hearing aid three months after MI; these participants also had significantly higher datalogged hearing aid use following MI.
CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that follow-up appointments using MI counseling in conjunction with technical support may be useful for increasing hearing aid usage among low-users, and a randomized controlled trial is warranted.

PMID: 30222540 [PubMed - in process]

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2MIyeEJ
via IFTTT

Effects of Secondhand Smoke Exposure on Hearing and Auditory Evoked Potentials, ABR and AMLR in Young Adults.

Related Articles

Effects of Secondhand Smoke Exposure on Hearing and Auditory Evoked Potentials, ABR and AMLR in Young Adults.

J Am Acad Audiol. 2018 Sep;29(8):685-695

Authors: Ramkissoon I, Batavia M

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Population health is impacted by environmental secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure. Although the negative health effects of SHS exposure include respiratory problems in children (nonsmokers) as seen in cigarette smokers, other health impacts such as sensory function are not assumed to be the same for both passive nonsmokers and smokers. However, hearing loss was recently reported in adolescents and aging adults with SHS exposure, suggesting that SHS might impact auditory function similarly to cigarette smoking. Specific effects of SHS exposure on the central auditory system have not been fully described.
PURPOSE: To measure auditory function via pure-tone audiometry and evoked potentials in young nonsmoking adults aged 18-23 yr who reported exposure to environmental SHS.
RESEARCH DESIGN: Participants were selected for the SHS-exposed (SHS-E) group first, followed by age and gender matched individuals for the SHS-unexposed (SHS-U) group. Self-reported nonsmoker status was confirmed by biochemical analysis of urine for cotinine level.
STUDY SAMPLE: Potential participants (N = 208) completed a questionnaire about health, smoking history, SHS exposure, and hearing ability. Individuals with any neurological conditions, alcohol/drug dependencies, excessive noise exposure, using certain medications, or current smokers were excluded. Twenty-two nonsmokers in excellent health consented to participate. Participants in the SHS-E group reported SHS exposure in home, work, or social settings for an extensive time period. Participants in the SHS-U group did not live with smokers and reported no SHS exposure, medication use, tinnitus, or any chemical exposures. Statistical analysis was conducted on data from 20 participants, 10 per group with a mean age of 20 yr.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Participants underwent auditory procedures in one session in an IAC sound-treated room, including otoscopy, tympanometry, pure-tone threshold evaluation, auditory brainstem response per ear, and a three-channel auditory middle latency response in the right ear. The primary study outcomes were hearing thresholds measured (dB HL) at five frequencies, and evoked potential wave latencies (I, III, V, Na, Pa, Nb, Pb) and amplitudes (V-I, Na-Pa, Pa-Nb, Nb-Pb). It was hypothesized that SHS-exposed individuals would have poorer hearing sensitivity (threshold >25 dB HL) and abnormal central auditory function (longer latencies; smaller amplitudes) based on evoked potentials. Statistical analyses focused on identification of group differences in hearing and central auditory function.
RESULTS: All participants had normal hearing sensitivity (thresholds ≤25 dB HL) with no significant group differences. The V/I amplitude ratio in the right ear was significantly decreased in SHS-exposed individuals (p < 0.05). Auditory brainstem response latencies were not significantly different between participant groups or ears. Wave Pb latency was significantly increased in SHS-exposed individuals (p < 0.01). Auditory middle latency response relative amplitudes were significantly different from each other at every electrode site (Cz, Fz, C4) but not between groups. Overall, the Na-Pa complex was highest in amplitude at all three electrode sites.
CONCLUSIONS: This preliminary study indicated toxic effects of SHS exposure by evoked potentials with decreased V/I amplitude ratio and longer (delayed) Pb latency in young adults. Further studies should corroborate these findings to facilitate clinical recommendations.

PMID: 30222539 [PubMed - in process]

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2piWYKu
via IFTTT

A Nonsense Consonant-Vowel-Consonant Word Test to Assess Auditory Processing.

Related Articles

A Nonsense Consonant-Vowel-Consonant Word Test to Assess Auditory Processing.

J Am Acad Audiol. 2018 Sep;29(8):675-684

Authors: Cheyney MN, Moncrieff DW

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Dichotic listening (DL), or how the two ears work together as a team, is often used in the assessment of auditory processing disorders in both children and adults. Currently, the battery of dichotic tests includes stimuli containing words, digits, and nonsense consonant-vowel syllables. Single-syllable nonsense words are of particular use in assessing processing abilities because they can evaluate auditory processing without a listener's dependence on linguistic knowledge. Therefore, nonsense words may assess auditory processes independently of previous vocabulary knowledge.
PURPOSE: This study is designed to assess the clinical applicability and face validity of a nonsense word DL test in a young adult population.
RESEARCH DESIGN: This study included an experimental design to investigate the performance of young adult listeners on a Dichotic Nonsense Word (DNW) test spoken by a male and female speaker. The results were compared with one study that investigated young adult listener's performance on dichotic tests of English words.
STUDY SAMPLE: A total of 100 young adult participants were recruited from the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Pittsburgh to participate in the study. The participants ranged in age from 20 to 30, with an average age of 23, and all participants had normal hearing.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: DL performance was measured in all participants using the Dichotic Words Test (DWT) and the newly developed DNW test. Kolmogorov-Smirnoff tests of normality were used to assess distribution of right- and left-ear scores. Criterion cutoff scores were determined for the percent correct scores in the nondominant ear and dominant ear and for ear advantage.
RESULTS: Scores were significantly different between the two tests in the right ear, Z = -8.258, p < 0.001, and in the left ear, Z = -8.471, p < 0.001. Scores within each test were higher for the right ear than for the left ear, and scores for both ears were significantly lower on the DNW test than for the DWT. Ear advantage scores from the DNW test were significantly larger than those obtained from the DWT. The low and high 95% criterion cutoff ranges for the DNW test were considerably wider than the 95% criterion cutoff ranges for the DWT.
CONCLUSIONS: Results indicate that the new DNW test may be a useful clinical tool within a test battery for evaluating auditory processing skills independent of vocabulary knowledge.

PMID: 30222538 [PubMed - in process]

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2MJeEYT
via IFTTT

First-Fit versus Programmed Fit: Is There Quantifiable Benefit in the Custom Fitting of Hearing Aids?

Related Articles

First-Fit versus Programmed Fit: Is There Quantifiable Benefit in the Custom Fitting of Hearing Aids?

J Am Acad Audiol. 2018 Sep;29(8):674

Authors: Jacobson GP

PMID: 30222537 [PubMed - in process]

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2pk2jBh
via IFTTT

Bilingual Speech Sound Development During the Preschool Years: The Role of Language Proficiency and Cross-Linguistic Relatedness

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate typical Spanish–English speech sound development longitudinally in a group of bilingual preschoolers enrolled in a Head Start Program and to examine the extent to which such development is linked to language proficiency. The study also aimed to identify whether speech development is related cross-linguistically and to improve our understanding of error patterns in this population.

Method

Thirty-five bilingual preschool children produced single-word speech samples in Spanish and English both at the beginning of their first and their second year in a Head Start Program. Conversational samples in both languages were also collected at these data points to calculate mean length of utterance in words (MLUw) and thus assess the children's linguistic proficiency. The phonetically transcribed speech samples were compared over time in terms of segmental accuracy measures and error pattern frequencies. Correlation analyses were run to examine the relation between segmental accuracy measures across languages and between speech sound production and MLUw.

Results

One-way within-subject analysis of variance revealed significant improvements in accuracy over time in both languages, but not always for cross-linguistically unshared segments, nor for all consonant manner classes. Overall error rates decreased over time in both languages; although, certain error types showed no change. Cross-linguistic interactions were low in both languages. The results also revealed significant cross-linguistic correlations in segmental accuracy between Spanish and English, as well as between MLUw and speech sound production in both languages on a range of measures, with language-specific differences in Year 2 of the Head Start Program, but not in Year 1.

Conclusions

This study is the first to document developmental changes in the speech patterns of Spanish–English bilingual preschool children over 1 year. Accuracy rates improved significantly in both languages, suggesting that enhanced exposure to the majority language at school may not impede phonological development in the home language. Bootstrapping effects were particularly pronounced on cross-linguistically shared sounds, which suggests that the same underlying skills are utilized in both languages, whereas language-specific singleton consonants and consonant clusters did not appear to benefit from exposure to the other language. The results also suggest an intricate link between phonological skills and morphosyntactic performance at the early stages of development, but a more complex pattern thereafter with differences that may be based on language-specific phonological properties.

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2NkxFpE
via IFTTT

Bilingual Speech Sound Development During the Preschool Years: The Role of Language Proficiency and Cross-Linguistic Relatedness

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate typical Spanish–English speech sound development longitudinally in a group of bilingual preschoolers enrolled in a Head Start Program and to examine the extent to which such development is linked to language proficiency. The study also aimed to identify whether speech development is related cross-linguistically and to improve our understanding of error patterns in this population.

Method

Thirty-five bilingual preschool children produced single-word speech samples in Spanish and English both at the beginning of their first and their second year in a Head Start Program. Conversational samples in both languages were also collected at these data points to calculate mean length of utterance in words (MLUw) and thus assess the children's linguistic proficiency. The phonetically transcribed speech samples were compared over time in terms of segmental accuracy measures and error pattern frequencies. Correlation analyses were run to examine the relation between segmental accuracy measures across languages and between speech sound production and MLUw.

Results

One-way within-subject analysis of variance revealed significant improvements in accuracy over time in both languages, but not always for cross-linguistically unshared segments, nor for all consonant manner classes. Overall error rates decreased over time in both languages; although, certain error types showed no change. Cross-linguistic interactions were low in both languages. The results also revealed significant cross-linguistic correlations in segmental accuracy between Spanish and English, as well as between MLUw and speech sound production in both languages on a range of measures, with language-specific differences in Year 2 of the Head Start Program, but not in Year 1.

Conclusions

This study is the first to document developmental changes in the speech patterns of Spanish–English bilingual preschool children over 1 year. Accuracy rates improved significantly in both languages, suggesting that enhanced exposure to the majority language at school may not impede phonological development in the home language. Bootstrapping effects were particularly pronounced on cross-linguistically shared sounds, which suggests that the same underlying skills are utilized in both languages, whereas language-specific singleton consonants and consonant clusters did not appear to benefit from exposure to the other language. The results also suggest an intricate link between phonological skills and morphosyntactic performance at the early stages of development, but a more complex pattern thereafter with differences that may be based on language-specific phonological properties.

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2NkxFpE
via IFTTT

A Comparison of Personal Sound Amplification Products and Hearing Aids in Ecologically Relevant Test Environments

Purpose

The aim of this study was to compare the benefit of self-adjusted personal sound amplification products (PSAPs) to audiologist-fitted hearing aids based on speech recognition, listening effort, and sound quality in ecologically relevant test conditions to estimate real-world effectiveness.

Method

Twenty-five older adults with bilateral mild-to-moderate hearing loss completed the single-blinded, crossover study. Participants underwent aided testing using 3 PSAPs and a traditional hearing aid, as well as unaided testing. PSAPs were adjusted based on participant preference, whereas the hearing aid was configured using best-practice verification protocols. Audibility provided by the devices was quantified using the Speech Intelligibility Index (American National Standards Institute, 2012). Outcome measures assessing speech recognition, listening effort, and sound quality were administered in ecologically relevant laboratory conditions designed to represent real-world speech listening situations.

Results

All devices significantly improved Speech Intelligibility Index compared to unaided listening, with the hearing aid providing more audibility than all PSAPs. Results further revealed that, in general, the hearing aid improved speech recognition performance and reduced listening effort significantly more than all PSAPs. Few differences in sound quality were observed between devices. All PSAPs improved speech recognition and listening effort compared to unaided testing.

Conclusions

Hearing aids fitted using best-practice verification protocols were capable of providing more aided audibility, better speech recognition performance, and lower listening effort compared to the PSAPs tested in the current study. Differences in sound quality between the devices were minimal. However, because all PSAPs tested in the study significantly improved participants' speech recognition performance and reduced listening effort compared to unaided listening, PSAPs could serve as a budget-friendly option for those who cannot afford traditional amplification.

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2xtG8vX
via IFTTT

A Comparison of Personal Sound Amplification Products and Hearing Aids in Ecologically Relevant Test Environments

Purpose

The aim of this study was to compare the benefit of self-adjusted personal sound amplification products (PSAPs) to audiologist-fitted hearing aids based on speech recognition, listening effort, and sound quality in ecologically relevant test conditions to estimate real-world effectiveness.

Method

Twenty-five older adults with bilateral mild-to-moderate hearing loss completed the single-blinded, crossover study. Participants underwent aided testing using 3 PSAPs and a traditional hearing aid, as well as unaided testing. PSAPs were adjusted based on participant preference, whereas the hearing aid was configured using best-practice verification protocols. Audibility provided by the devices was quantified using the Speech Intelligibility Index (American National Standards Institute, 2012). Outcome measures assessing speech recognition, listening effort, and sound quality were administered in ecologically relevant laboratory conditions designed to represent real-world speech listening situations.

Results

All devices significantly improved Speech Intelligibility Index compared to unaided listening, with the hearing aid providing more audibility than all PSAPs. Results further revealed that, in general, the hearing aid improved speech recognition performance and reduced listening effort significantly more than all PSAPs. Few differences in sound quality were observed between devices. All PSAPs improved speech recognition and listening effort compared to unaided testing.

Conclusions

Hearing aids fitted using best-practice verification protocols were capable of providing more aided audibility, better speech recognition performance, and lower listening effort compared to the PSAPs tested in the current study. Differences in sound quality between the devices were minimal. However, because all PSAPs tested in the study significantly improved participants' speech recognition performance and reduced listening effort compared to unaided listening, PSAPs could serve as a budget-friendly option for those who cannot afford traditional amplification.

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2xtG8vX
via IFTTT

Lectura, ortografía y habilidades fonológicas de estudiantes sordos con y sin implante coclear

Publication date: Available online 17 September 2018

Source: Revista de Logopedia, Foniatría y Audiología

Author(s): Virginia González, Ana-Belén Domínguez

Resumen

Introducción

El objetivo del trabajo fue determinar el papel de los códigos ortográficos y fonológicos en el aprendizaje de la lectura en estudiantes sordos con y sin implante coclear (IC). Se analizaron varias cuestiones: 1) si la calidad de las representaciones fonológicas que poseen y su capacidad para manipularlas depende o no del uso de IC; 2) si los niveles lectores que alcanzan dependen de la calidad de las representaciones fonológicas, y 3) si las representaciones ortográficas que almacenan provienen de las representaciones fonológicas correspondientes.

Metodología

Participaron 172 estudiantes sordos con edades entre los 6 y los 18 años, divididos en 4 grupos: alumnos con IC precoz, alumnos con IC tardío, alumnos sin IC con sordera moderada y alumnos sin IC con sordera profunda. Como grupo control, participó un grupo de 797 oyentes de igual edad. Todos fueron evaluados con una prueba de lectura, una de ortografía y 3 de metafonología.

Resultados

Los resultados muestran que los IC, sobre todo los colocados precozmente (antes de 30 meses), conducen a mejores resultados en todas las tareas experimentales. En el extremo opuesto encontramos el grupo con sordera profunda sin IC. Las representaciones ortográficas parecen almacenarse utilizando las representaciones fonológicas correspondientes, que a su vez mejoran gracias a la información ortográfica proporcionada por la actividad de lectura en sí.

Discusión y conclusiones

Se discute la necesidad de establecer una enseñanza explícita y sistemática en habilidades metafonológicas antes y durante la enseñanza de lectura de los estudiantes sordos.

Abstract

Introduction

The objective of this study was to determine the role of orthographic and phonological codes in deaf students learning to read with and without cochlear implant (CI). Several questions were analyzed: 1) whether the quality of the phonological representations they possess and their ability to manipulate them depends or not on the use of CI; 2) whether the reading levels they reach depend on the quality of the phonological representations; and 3) whether the orthographic representations they store come from the corresponding phonological representations.

Methodology

Participating in the study were 172 deaf students aged between 6 and 18 years, divided into 4 groups: students with early CI, students with late CI, students without CI and moderate hearing loss and students without CI and profound hearing loss. As a control group, a group of 797 listeners of the same age participated. All were evaluated with a reading test, a spelling test and 3 metaphonology tests.

Results

The results show that the CIs, especially those fitted early (before 30 months), lead to better results in all experimental tasks. The group with profound deafness without CI were at the opposite extreme. The orthographic representations seem to be stored using the corresponding phonological representations, which in turn improve thanks to the orthographic information provided by the reading activity itself.

Discussion and conclusions

The need to establish an explicit and systematic training in metaphonological skills before and during the reading instruction of deaf students is discussed.

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2NQJJyh
via IFTTT

Lectura, ortografía y habilidades fonológicas de estudiantes sordos con y sin implante coclear

Publication date: Available online 17 September 2018

Source: Revista de Logopedia, Foniatría y Audiología

Author(s): Virginia González, Ana-Belén Domínguez

Resumen

Introducción

El objetivo del trabajo fue determinar el papel de los códigos ortográficos y fonológicos en el aprendizaje de la lectura en estudiantes sordos con y sin implante coclear (IC). Se analizaron varias cuestiones: 1) si la calidad de las representaciones fonológicas que poseen y su capacidad para manipularlas depende o no del uso de IC; 2) si los niveles lectores que alcanzan dependen de la calidad de las representaciones fonológicas, y 3) si las representaciones ortográficas que almacenan provienen de las representaciones fonológicas correspondientes.

Metodología

Participaron 172 estudiantes sordos con edades entre los 6 y los 18 años, divididos en 4 grupos: alumnos con IC precoz, alumnos con IC tardío, alumnos sin IC con sordera moderada y alumnos sin IC con sordera profunda. Como grupo control, participó un grupo de 797 oyentes de igual edad. Todos fueron evaluados con una prueba de lectura, una de ortografía y 3 de metafonología.

Resultados

Los resultados muestran que los IC, sobre todo los colocados precozmente (antes de 30 meses), conducen a mejores resultados en todas las tareas experimentales. En el extremo opuesto encontramos el grupo con sordera profunda sin IC. Las representaciones ortográficas parecen almacenarse utilizando las representaciones fonológicas correspondientes, que a su vez mejoran gracias a la información ortográfica proporcionada por la actividad de lectura en sí.

Discusión y conclusiones

Se discute la necesidad de establecer una enseñanza explícita y sistemática en habilidades metafonológicas antes y durante la enseñanza de lectura de los estudiantes sordos.

Abstract

Introduction

The objective of this study was to determine the role of orthographic and phonological codes in deaf students learning to read with and without cochlear implant (CI). Several questions were analyzed: 1) whether the quality of the phonological representations they possess and their ability to manipulate them depends or not on the use of CI; 2) whether the reading levels they reach depend on the quality of the phonological representations; and 3) whether the orthographic representations they store come from the corresponding phonological representations.

Methodology

Participating in the study were 172 deaf students aged between 6 and 18 years, divided into 4 groups: students with early CI, students with late CI, students without CI and moderate hearing loss and students without CI and profound hearing loss. As a control group, a group of 797 listeners of the same age participated. All were evaluated with a reading test, a spelling test and 3 metaphonology tests.

Results

The results show that the CIs, especially those fitted early (before 30 months), lead to better results in all experimental tasks. The group with profound deafness without CI were at the opposite extreme. The orthographic representations seem to be stored using the corresponding phonological representations, which in turn improve thanks to the orthographic information provided by the reading activity itself.

Discussion and conclusions

The need to establish an explicit and systematic training in metaphonological skills before and during the reading instruction of deaf students is discussed.

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2NQJJyh
via IFTTT

Effects of anthropometric factors on postural stability in individuals with hearing impairment.

Related Articles

Effects of anthropometric factors on postural stability in individuals with hearing impairment.

Acta Bioeng Biomech. 2018;20(1):109-115

Authors: Zdrodowska A, Wiszomirska I, Kaczmarczyk K, Kosmol A

Abstract
PURPOSE: Identification of factors that affect postural stability may help to improve diagnostic accuracy and enhance the quality of treatment and rehabilitation. This study sought to assess the relationship between postural stability parameters and anthropometric factors of persons with hearing impairment (HI).
METHODS: The study included 128 individuals - 42 subjects with HI and 86 without HI (healthy controls). Research methodology included an interview and a medical examination, anthropometric measurements and stabilometric tests on platforms with stable and unstable surfaces.
RESULTS: In the group of female study participants with HI, significant correlations were only noted between body height and the Fall Risk Index (FRI). In the group of male subjects with HI, the study revealed significant correlations between FRI and body mass, BMI, % MM (muscle mass percentage) and % FAT (fat percentage). Moreover, moderate correlation was found between COP path with eyes open and body mass, while high correlation was observed between COP path with eyes open and BMI, % MM and % FAT. No significant correlation was noted between FRI and body height in men with HI.
CONCLUSIONS: The examination of correlations between postural stability and body build of persons with HI did not confirm the effects of body height on postural stability in the examined group of individuals with HI, but revealed a greater influence of somatic parameters (body mass, BMI, % MM, % FAT) on postural stability in hearing-impaired men.

PMID: 29658522 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2NnRMmK
via IFTTT

Effects of anthropometric factors on postural stability in individuals with hearing impairment.

Related Articles

Effects of anthropometric factors on postural stability in individuals with hearing impairment.

Acta Bioeng Biomech. 2018;20(1):109-115

Authors: Zdrodowska A, Wiszomirska I, Kaczmarczyk K, Kosmol A

Abstract
PURPOSE: Identification of factors that affect postural stability may help to improve diagnostic accuracy and enhance the quality of treatment and rehabilitation. This study sought to assess the relationship between postural stability parameters and anthropometric factors of persons with hearing impairment (HI).
METHODS: The study included 128 individuals - 42 subjects with HI and 86 without HI (healthy controls). Research methodology included an interview and a medical examination, anthropometric measurements and stabilometric tests on platforms with stable and unstable surfaces.
RESULTS: In the group of female study participants with HI, significant correlations were only noted between body height and the Fall Risk Index (FRI). In the group of male subjects with HI, the study revealed significant correlations between FRI and body mass, BMI, % MM (muscle mass percentage) and % FAT (fat percentage). Moreover, moderate correlation was found between COP path with eyes open and body mass, while high correlation was observed between COP path with eyes open and BMI, % MM and % FAT. No significant correlation was noted between FRI and body height in men with HI.
CONCLUSIONS: The examination of correlations between postural stability and body build of persons with HI did not confirm the effects of body height on postural stability in the examined group of individuals with HI, but revealed a greater influence of somatic parameters (body mass, BMI, % MM, % FAT) on postural stability in hearing-impaired men.

PMID: 29658522 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2NnRMmK
via IFTTT

Oticon Opn™ Expands Open Sound Experience with New Custom Styles

​\The expanded Oticon Opn™ family delivers the revoluti​onary open sound experience in styles and performance levels to satisfy a wide range of hearing needs and preferences – making Opn the hearing solution of choice for users and hearing care professionals more than one million times over.  Now, new Oticon Opn Custom solutions bring 360° sound to users who want the ultimate in discretion. Five new custom styles, including the smallest hearing aid style Oticon has ever produced, use BrainHearing™ technology and Opn's extremely fast and precise technology to support the brain in making sense of sound and enable users to easily identify where sounds are coming from, even in challenging environments.

"The variety of Opn Custom styles, functionalities and features combined with Oticon's groundbreaking open sound experience provides hearing care professionals with even more Opn choices for their patients, especially those who are reluctant to try hearing aids," says Don Schum, PhD, Oticon Vice President of Audiology. "For many first-time users, the appeal of an invisible hearing solution, our smallest IIC ever, may be the catalyst for taking action to address their hearing loss."

No Compromise on Quality, Reliability, Performance

Like all Oticon Opn hearing aids, the comprehensive range of Opn Custom hearing aids breaks through some of the biggest challenges faced by people with hearing loss: understanding speech in noise and handling multiple speakers. The custom lineup includes fully-featured styles with outstanding 2.4 GHz low energy Bluetooth® connectivity that offers an array of wireless possibilities. The miniaturization of all components enables more functionality in less space, resulting in fewer compromises and more modeling freedom to support a better physical fit and a higher fit rate. The effect and availability of Opn Custom features varies with hearing aid style and prescription.

Oticon Siya Amplifies Rich Details of Sound

New Oticon Siya offers an excellent listening experience for users of hearing aids in the essential category. Siya amplifies the rich details of sounds, so users can follow conversations in noisy environments. Oticon BrainHearing technology and a powerful chip that processes sound 50 times faster than Oticon's previous generation of essential hearing aids deliver high resolution sound quality to improve speech understanding.

With 2.4 GHz Bluetooth low energy technology, Siya is the first hearing aid in the essential category to allow easy wireless connectivity with low battery consumption to modern smartphones, TVs and other Bluetooth®-enabled devices. Siya comes in a complete lineup of styles, ranging from invisible custom styles to power hearing aids.

​HearingFitness™ Encourages Healthy Hearing Habits

HearingFitness™ is a new tool, available in Oticon's proprietary ON App, to help people with hearing loss understand how they can optimize their hearing health behavior to take full advantage of their hearing aids. Users of internet-connected Oticon Opn and Oticon Siya hearing aids can use HearingFitness to track how long they wear their hearing aids and receive notifications and prompts to help them reach their wearing goals and track the noise levels they are frequently exposed to. The new tool can be especially useful for first-time users who find it difficult to adapt to wearing hearing aids. ​

Published: 9/17/2018 2:52:00 PM

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2xgifIY
via IFTTT

Oticon Opn™ Expands Open Sound Experience with New Custom Styles

​\The expanded Oticon Opn™ family delivers the revoluti​onary open sound experience in styles and performance levels to satisfy a wide range of hearing needs and preferences – making Opn the hearing solution of choice for users and hearing care professionals more than one million times over.  Now, new Oticon Opn Custom solutions bring 360° sound to users who want the ultimate in discretion. Five new custom styles, including the smallest hearing aid style Oticon has ever produced, use BrainHearing™ technology and Opn's extremely fast and precise technology to support the brain in making sense of sound and enable users to easily identify where sounds are coming from, even in challenging environments.

"The variety of Opn Custom styles, functionalities and features combined with Oticon's groundbreaking open sound experience provides hearing care professionals with even more Opn choices for their patients, especially those who are reluctant to try hearing aids," says Don Schum, PhD, Oticon Vice President of Audiology. "For many first-time users, the appeal of an invisible hearing solution, our smallest IIC ever, may be the catalyst for taking action to address their hearing loss."

No Compromise on Quality, Reliability, Performance

Like all Oticon Opn hearing aids, the comprehensive range of Opn Custom hearing aids breaks through some of the biggest challenges faced by people with hearing loss: understanding speech in noise and handling multiple speakers. The custom lineup includes fully-featured styles with outstanding 2.4 GHz low energy Bluetooth® connectivity that offers an array of wireless possibilities. The miniaturization of all components enables more functionality in less space, resulting in fewer compromises and more modeling freedom to support a better physical fit and a higher fit rate. The effect and availability of Opn Custom features varies with hearing aid style and prescription.

Oticon Siya Amplifies Rich Details of Sound

New Oticon Siya offers an excellent listening experience for users of hearing aids in the essential category. Siya amplifies the rich details of sounds, so users can follow conversations in noisy environments. Oticon BrainHearing technology and a powerful chip that processes sound 50 times faster than Oticon's previous generation of essential hearing aids deliver high resolution sound quality to improve speech understanding.

With 2.4 GHz Bluetooth low energy technology, Siya is the first hearing aid in the essential category to allow easy wireless connectivity with low battery consumption to modern smartphones, TVs and other Bluetooth®-enabled devices. Siya comes in a complete lineup of styles, ranging from invisible custom styles to power hearing aids.

​HearingFitness™ Encourages Healthy Hearing Habits

HearingFitness™ is a new tool, available in Oticon's proprietary ON App, to help people with hearing loss understand how they can optimize their hearing health behavior to take full advantage of their hearing aids. Users of internet-connected Oticon Opn and Oticon Siya hearing aids can use HearingFitness to track how long they wear their hearing aids and receive notifications and prompts to help them reach their wearing goals and track the noise levels they are frequently exposed to. The new tool can be especially useful for first-time users who find it difficult to adapt to wearing hearing aids. ​

Published: 9/17/2018 2:52:00 PM

from #Audiology via ola Kala on Inoreader https://ift.tt/2xgifIY
via IFTTT