Search Results (38)

Voice pathology diagnosis is essential for the timely detection and management of voice disorders, which can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. This study employed logistic regression to evaluate the predictive power of variables that include age, severity, loudness, breathiness, pitch, roughness, strain, and gender on a binary diagnosis outcome (Yes/No). The analysis was performed on the Perceptual Voice Qualities Database (PVQD), a comprehensive dataset containing voice samples with perceptual ratings. Two widely used voice quality assessment tools, CAPE-V (Consensus Auditory-Perceptual Evaluation of Voice) and GRBAS (Grade, Roughness, Breathiness, Asthenia, Strain), were employed to annotate voice qualities, ensuring systematic and clinically relevant perceptual evaluations. The model revealed that age (odds ratio: 1.033, p < 0.001), loudness (odds ratio: 1.071, p = 0.005), and gender (male) (odds ratio: 1.904, p = 0.043) were statistically significant predictors of voice pathology. In contrast, severity and voice quality-related features like breathiness, pitch, roughness, and strain did not show statistical significance, suggesting their limited predictive contributions within this model. While the results provide valuable insights, the study underscores notable limitations of logistic regression. The model assumes a linear relationship between the independent variables and the log odds of the outcome, which restricts its ability to capture complex, non-linear patterns within the data. Additionally, logistic regression does not inherently account for interactions between predictors or feature dependencies, potentially limiting its performance in more intricate datasets. Furthermore, a fixed classification threshold (0.5) may lead to misclassification, particularly in datasets with imbalanced classes or skewed predictor distributions. These findings highlight that although logistic regression serves as a useful tool for identifying significant predictors, its results are dataset-dependent and cannot be generalized across diverse populations. Future research should validate these findings using heterogeneous datasets and employ advanced machine learning techniques to address the limitations of logistic regression. Integrating non-linear models or feature interaction analyses may enhance diagnostic accuracy, ensuring more reliable and robust voice pathology predictions. Full article

Background/Objectives: Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often display heightened sensitivity to simple auditory stimuli, but have difficulty discriminating and integrating multiple phonological features (segmental: consonants and vowels; suprasegmental: lexical tones) at the syllable level, which negatively impacts their communication. This study aims to investigate the neural basis of segmental, suprasegmental and combinatorial speech processing challenges in Mandarin-speaking children with ASD compared with typically developing (TD) peers. Methods: Thirty children with ASD and thirty TD peers will complete a multi-feature oddball paradigm to elicit auditory ERP during passive listening. Stimuli include syllables with single (e.g., vowel only), dual (e.g., vowel + tone), and triple (consonant + vowel + tone) phonological deviations. Neural responses will be analyzed using temporal principal component analysis (t-PCA) to isolate overlapping ERP components (early/late MMN), and representational similarity analysis (RSA) to assess group differences in neural representational structure across feature conditions. Expected Outcomes: We adopt a dual-framework approach to hypothesis generation. First, from a theory-driven perspective, we integrate three complementary models, Enhanced Perceptual Functioning (EPF), Weak Central Coherence (WCC), and the Neural Complexity Hypothesis (NCH), to account for auditory processing in ASD. Specifically, we hypothesize that ASD children will show enhanced or intact neural discriminatory responses to isolated segmental deviations (e.g., vowel), but attenuated or delayed responses to suprasegmental (e.g., tone) and multi-feature deviants, with the most severe disruptions occurring in complex, multi-feature conditions. Second, from an empirically grounded, data-driven perspective, we derive our central hypothesis directly from the mismatch negativity (MMN) literature, which suggests reduced MMN amplitudes (with the exception of vowel deviants) and prolonged latencies accompanied by a diminished left-hemisphere advantage across all speech feature types in ASD, with the most pronounced effects in complex, multi-feature conditions. Significance: By testing alternative hypotheses and predictions, this exploratory study will clarify the extent to which speech processing differences in ASD reflect cognitive biases (local vs. global, per EPF/WCC/NCH) versus speech-specific neurophysiological disruptions. Findings will advance our understanding of the sensory and integrative mechanisms underlying communication difficulties in ASD, particularly in tonal language contexts, and may inform the development of linguistically tailored interventions. Full article

This paper presents an analysis of G. P. Telemann’s Sonata in C Major for Recorder and Basso Continuo (TWV 41:C2, Allegro), with the aim of investigating the occurrence of perceptual streams. The presence of perceptual streams in musical works helps to organise the sound stimuli received by the listener in a specific manner. This enables each listener to perceive the piece in an individual and distinctive manner, granting primacy to selected sounds over others. Directing the listener’s attention to particular elements of the auditory image leads to the formation of specific mental representations. This, in turn, results in distinctive interpretations of the acoustic stimuli. All of these processes are explored and illustrated in this analysis. Full article

Background/Objectives: Individuals with similar hearing sensitivity exhibit varying levels of tolerance to background noise, a trait tied to unique individual characteristics that affect their responsiveness to noise reduction (NR) processing in hearing aids. The present study aimed to capture such individual characteristics by employing electrophysiological measures and subjective noise-tolerance profiles, and both were analyzed in relation to speech-in-noise performance and NR outcomes. Methods: From a sample of 42 participants with normal hearing, the neural signal-to-noise ratio (SNR)—a cortical index comparing the amplitude ratio between auditory evoked responses to target speech onset versus noise onset—was calculated, and individual noise-tolerance profiles were also derived using k-means cluster analysis to classify participants into distinct subgroups. Results: The neural SNR showed significant correlations with speech-in-noise performance and NR outcomes with varying strength. In contrast, noise-tolerance subgroups did not show meaningful group-level differences in either speech-in-noise or NR outcomes. The neural SNR and noise-tolerance profiles were found to be statistically independent. Conclusions: While the neural SNR reliably predicted perceptual performance in background noise and NR outcomes, our noise-tolerance profiles lacked sufficient sensitivity. Still, subjective ratings of individual noise tolerance are clinically accessible, and thus, integrating both physiology and subjective measures in the same cohort is a valuable strategy. Full article

This paper provides a conceptual framework for soundscape appraisal as a key outcome of the hearing process. Sound appraisal involves auditory sense-making and produces the soundscape as the perceived and understood acoustic environment. The soundscape exists in the experiential domain and involves meaning-giving. Soundscape research has reached a consensus about the relevance of two experiential dimensions—pleasure and eventfulness—which give rise to four appraisal quadrants: calm, lively/vibrant, chaotic, and boring/monotonous. Requirements for and constraints on the hearing and appraisal processes follow from the demands of living in a complex world, the specific properties of source and transmission physics, and the need for auditory events and streams of single-source information. These lead to several core features and functions of the hearing process, such as prioritizing the auditory channel (loudness), forming auditory streams (audibility, primitive auditory scene analysis), prioritizing auditory streams (audible safety, noise sensitivity), and initial meaning-giving (auditory gist and perceptual layers). Combined, this leads to a model of soundscape appraisal yielding the ISO quadrant structure. Long-term aggregated appraisals lead to a sonic climate that allows for an insightful comparison of different locations. The resulting system needs additional validation and optimization to comply in detail with human appraisal and evaluation. Full article

The spontaneous use of verbal expressions to articulate and describe abstract auditory phenomena in everyday interactions is an inherent aspect of human nature. This occurs without the structured conditions typically required in controlled laboratory environments, relying instead on intuitive and spontaneous modes of expression. This study explores the relationship between auditory perception and descriptive language for abstract sounds. These sounds, synthesized without identifiable sources or musical structures, allow listeners to engage with sound perception free from external references. The investigation of correlations between subjective descriptors (e.g., “rough”, “bright”) and physical sound attributes (e.g., spectral and dynamic properties) reveals significant cross-modal linguistic associations in auditory perception. An international survey with a diverse group of participants revealed that listeners often draw on other sensory domains to describe sounds, suggesting a robust cross-modal basis for auditory descriptors. Moreover, the findings indicate a correlation between subjective descriptors and objective sound wave properties, demonstrating the effectiveness of abstract sounds in guiding listeners’ attention to intrinsic qualities. These results could support the development of new paradigms in sound analysis and manipulation, with applications in artistic, educational, and analytical contexts. This multidisciplinary approach may provide the foundation for a perceptual framework for sound analysis, to be tested and refined through theoretical modelling and experimental validation. Full article

This article explores the variable properties of auditory image analysis during the perception of musical works, which are influenced by the specific elements to which the listener directs their attention. Traditional analyses of musical compositions typically involve brief comparisons with auditory phenomena described in scientific studies, such as those by A.S. Bregman. However, these analyses are often limited, offering only a narrow perspective on the works. In contrast, the approach presented in this article extends the theories and experiments developed by Bregman and others, providing a more comprehensive understanding of entire compositions or selected sections rather than focusing solely on isolated passages. This broader framework enhances auditory image analysis and serves as a foundation for further research. The expanded analysis integrates within music theory, enabling a deeper exploration of musical structures, particularly in the context of perceiving multilayered music where multiple sound sources may share similar acoustic features. The author illustrates how acoustic and perceptual factors contribute to complex mental representations through graphic and musical examples. To substantiate the claims, classical works by composers such as F. Chopin, A. Guilmant, and J.S. Bach are analysed, further highlighting the variable properties of auditory image analysis. Full article

The user’s experience is critical in spatial design, particularly in outdoor spaces like university campuses, where the physical environment significantly influences students’ relaxation and stress relief. This study investigates the combined impact of thermal, luminous, and auditory environments on students’ perceptions within recreational areas at Bordj Bou Arreridj University Campus. A mixed-method approach combined field surveys and on-site measurements across eleven locations within three distinct spatial configurations. The findings from this study indicate that the auditory environment had the most substantial influence on overall perceptions, surpassing luminous and thermal factors. The open courtyard (Area 1) was perceived as less comfortable due to excessive heat and noise exposure. The shaded zone (Area 2) was identified as the most vulnerable, experiencing significant thermal stress and noise disturbances. In contrast, the secluded patio (Area 3) achieved the highest comfort rating and was perceived as the most cheerful and suitable space. Correlation analysis revealed significant interrelationships between physical and perceptual dimensions, highlighting the critical role of factors such as wind velocity, sky view factor, and illuminance in shaping thermal, luminous, and acoustic perceptions. A fuzzy logic model was developed to predict user perceptions of comfort, suitability, and mood based on measured environmental parameters to address the complexity of multisensory interactions. This study highlights the importance of integrating multisensory evaluations into spatial design to optimize the quality of outdoor environments. Full article

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a highly prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder, affecting both children and adults, which often leads to significant difficulties with attention, impulsivity, and working memory. These challenges can impact various cognitive and perceptual domains, including music perception and performance. Despite these difficulties, individuals with ADHD frequently engage with music, and previous research has shown that music listening can serve as a means of increasing stimulation and self-regulation. Moreover, music therapy has been explored as a potential treatment option for individuals with ADHD. As there is a lack of integrative reviews on the interaction between ADHD and music, the present review aimed to fill the gap in research. Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive literature search was conducted across PsychInfo (Ovid), PubMed, and Web of Science. A narrative synthesis was conducted on 20 eligible studies published between 1981 and 2023, involving 1170 participants, of whom 830 had ADHD or ADD. The review identified three main areas of research: (1) music performance and processing in individuals with ADHD, (2) the use of music listening as a source of stimulation for those with ADHD, and (3) music-based interventions aimed at mitigating ADHD symptoms. The analysis revealed that individuals with ADHD often experience unique challenges in musical tasks, particularly those related to timing, rhythm, and complex auditory stimuli perception, though these deficits did not extend to rhythmic improvisation and musical expression. Most studies indicated that music listening positively affects various domains for individuals with ADHD. Furthermore, most studies of music therapy found that it can generate significant benefits for individuals with ADHD. The strength of these findings, however, was limited by inconsistencies among the studies, such as variations in ADHD diagnosis, comorbidities, medication use, and gender. Despite these limitations, this review provides a valuable foundation for future research on the interaction between ADHD and music. Full article

The concept of auditory scene analysis, popularized in scientific experiments by A. S. Bregman, the primary architect of the perceptual streaming theory, and his research team, along with more recent analyses by subsequent researchers, highlights a specific scientific gap that has not been thoroughly explored in previous studies. This article seeks to expand on this concept by introducing the author’s observation of the multivariant nature of auditory perception. This notion suggests that listeners focusing on different components of an auditory image (such as a musical piece) may perceive the same sounds but interpret them as distinct sound structures. Notably, even the same listener may perceive various structures (different mental figures) when re-listening to the same piece, depending on which musical elements they focus on. The thesis of multivariantism was examined and confirmed through the analysis of selected classical music pieces, providing concrete evidence of different interpretations of the same sound stimuli. To enhance clarity and understanding, the introduction to multivariantism was supplemented with graphic examples from the visual arts, which were then related to musical art through score excerpts from the works of composers such as C. Saint-Saëns, F. Liszt, and F. Mendelssohn Bartholdy. Full article

Brain connectivity represents the functional organization of the brain, which is an important indicator for evaluating neuropsychiatric disorders and treatment effects. Schizophrenia is associated with impaired functional connectivity but characterizing the complex abnormality patterns has been challenging. In this work, we used resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data to measure functional connectivity between 55 schizophrenia patients and 63 healthy controls across 246 regions of interest (ROIs) and extracted the disease-related connectivity patterns using energy landscape (EL) analysis. EL analysis captures the complexity of brain function in schizophrenia by focusing on functional brain state stability and region-specific dynamics. Age, sex, and smoker demographics between patients and controls were not significantly different. However, significant patient and control differences were found for the brief psychiatric rating scale (BPRS), auditory perceptual trait and state (APTS), visual perceptual trait and state (VPTS), working memory score, and processing speed score. We found that the brains of individuals with schizophrenia have abnormal energy landscape patterns between the right and left rostral lingual gyrus, and between the left lateral and orbital area in 12/47 regions. The results demonstrate the potential of the proposed imaging analysis workflow to identify potential connectivity biomarkers by indexing specific clinical features in schizophrenia patients. Full article

Background: Speech production is a possible way to monitor bulbar and respiratory functions in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Moreover, the emergence of smartphone-based data collection offers a promising approach to reduce frequent hospital visits and enhance patient outcomes. Here, we studied the relationship between bulbar and respiratory functions with voice characteristics of ALS patients, alongside a speech therapist’s evaluation, at the convenience of using a simple smartphone. Methods: For voice assessment, we considered a speech therapist’s standardized tool—consensus auditory-perceptual evaluation of voice (CAPE-V); and an acoustic analysis toolbox. The bulbar sub-score of the revised ALS functional rating scale (ALSFRS-R) was used, and pulmonary function measurements included forced vital capacity (FVC%), maximum expiratory pressure (MEP%), and maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP%). Correlation coefficients and both linear and logistic regression models were applied. Results: A total of 27 ALS patients (12 males; 61 years mean age; 28 months median disease duration) were included. Patients with significant bulbar dysfunction revealed greater CAPE-V scores in overall severity, roughness, strain, pitch, and loudness. They also presented slower speaking rates, longer pauses, and higher jitter values in acoustic analysis (all p < 0.05). The CAPE-V’s overall severity and sub-scores for pitch and loudness demonstrated significant correlations with MIP% and MEP% (all p < 0.05). In contrast, acoustic metrics (speaking rate, absolute energy, shimmer, and harmonic-to-noise ratio) significantly correlated with FVC% (all p < 0.05). Conclusions: The results provide supporting evidence for the use of smartphone-based recordings in ALS patients for CAPE-V and acoustic analysis as reliable correlates of bulbar and respiratory function. Full article

Background: This scoping review had as a primary goal a review of the literature and the an analysis of the possible effectiveness of the LSVT LOUD approach in children with voice and speech deficits. Methods: A search was conducted in the Scopus and PubMed databases in May of 2024. Eleven articles were obtained from the search. The standards of PRISMA recommendations were used for scoping reviews and the PCC framework was used for the eligibility criteria. Furthermore, the study used the instructions in the Cochrane Handbook for a quality assessment. The Mendeley Reference Manager software collected the studies and removed duplicates. Results: The reviewed studies employed formal and informal measures to assess voice and speech abilities in the children. Regarding the sample’s characteristics, the studies mostly included children with Cerebral Palsy (CP) and also those with Down Syndrome (DS). All the studies reported that children with CP and DS undertook a total dose of the LSVT LOUD treatment. Significant post-treatment findings indicated increased speech function and sound pressure level, regarding the auditory–perceptual ratings of voice and speech improvement. In many studies, parents’ and expert listeners’ ratings of voice, perception of vocal loudness, speech, and communication indicated improvement. Conclusions: The majority of the included studies provide positive evidence for the LSVT as an approach. However, the small sample size that featured in the studies, as well as their limitations, made these conclusions uncertain. Moreover, the study’s findings provided recommendations that speech language therapists and other clinicians need to follow when setting a treatment plan with children with CP and DS. Full article

Caused by nonlinear vibration, ocean white noise exhibits complex dynamic characteristics and nonlinear perception characteristics. To explore the potential application of ocean white noise in engineering and health fields, novel methods based on deep learning algorithms are proposed to generate ocean white noise, contributing to marine environment simulation in ocean engineering. A comparative study, including spectrum analysis and auditory testing, proved the superiority of the generation method using deep learning networks over general mathematical or physical methods. To further study the nonlinear perception characteristics of ocean white noise, novel experimental research based on multi-modal perception research methods was carried out within a constructed multi-modal perception system environment, including the following two experiments. The first audiovisual comparative experiment thoroughly explores the system’s user multi-modal perception experience and influence factors, explicitly focusing on the impact of ocean white noise on human perception. The second sound intensity testing experiment is conducted to further explore human multi-sensory interaction and change patterns under white noise stimulation. The experimental results indicate that user visual perception ability and state reach a relatively high level when the sound intensity is close to 50 dB. Further numerical analysis based on the experimental results reveals the internal influence relationship between user perception of multiple senses, showing a fluctuating influence law to user visual concentration and a curvilinear influence law to user visual psychology from the sound intensity of ocean white noise. This study underscores ocean white noise’s positive effect on human perception enhancement and concentration improvement, providing a research basis for multiple field applications such as spiritual healing, perceptual learning, and artistic creation for human beings. Importantly, it provides valuable references and practical insights for professionals in related fields, contributing to the development and utilization of the marine environment. Full article

Background: The need for telepractice and digital treatment has increased due to issues this revision.regarding medical access and the COVID-19 pandemic. However, in many countries, telepractice is rarely performed. The purpose of this pilot study was to describe the detailed process of telepractice in patients with hyperfunctional voice disorder and investigate its effects. Methods: The three subjects who were enrolled in this pilot study had hyperfunctional voice disorders. The evaluation was performed face to face. Auditory perceptual evaluation, acoustic evaluation, aerodynamic evaluation, patient self-evaluation, and interviews were conducted. Treatment was delivered by telepractice using a smartphone application. Results: In quantitative analysis of auditory perceptual evaluation, acoustic evaluation, aerodynamic evaluation, and patient self-evaluation, all subjects showed improved voice after treatment. In-depth analysis of telepractice was performed through the interview. Conclusions: Telepractice was effective in patients with voice disorders, and the patients were satisfied with this approach. In addition to this pilot study, further large-scale studies are required, but telemedicine may improve treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction in cases where medical access is limited or during outbreaks of respiratory infections like COVID-19. Full article