1
|
Rallapalli V, Schauer J, Souza P. Preference for Combinations of Hearing Aid Signal Processing. JOURNAL OF SPEECH, LANGUAGE, AND HEARING RESEARCH : JSLHR 2022; 65:3100-3116. [PMID: 35881878 DOI: 10.1044/2022_jslhr-22-00018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to determine how multiple types of signal processing activated together influence listeners' preferences. METHOD Participants were adults with mild to moderately severe sensorineural hearing loss. Stimuli were spatialized low-context sentences mixed with six-talker babble at 3 and 8 dB signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs). Stimuli were processed with three common hearing aid processing algorithms: wide dynamic range compression (WDRC), frequency compression (FC), and digital noise reduction (DNR). A full-factorial design with two levels for each algorithm (WDRC & DNR: mild versus strong; FC: ON versus OFF; clinically relevant ranges) was evaluated. Preference was measured using a paired-comparison task within a choice-based conjoint analysis framework. Remote data collection methods were used. A signal fidelity metric quantified the acoustic effects across conditions. RESULTS At 3 dB SNR, participants preferred a combination of Slow WDRC and Mild DNR, although the mean preference was small (odds ratio close to 1). At both SNRs when Strong DNR was used, Fast WDRC was preferred over Slow WDRC. This may be related to signal fidelity, which was lower for the combination of Fast WDRC and Mild DNR and higher for the combination of Slow WDRC and either Mild DNR or Strong DNR. There was no effect of FC on preference or signal fidelity. CONCLUSIONS WDRC and DNR together influenced both listeners' preferences and signal fidelity in the investigated listening conditions. On average, the small effect sizes suggest that minor fine-tuning adjustments to hearing aid algorithms may not result in a substantial change in clinical outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Varsha Rallapalli
- Roxelyn and Richard Pepper Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| | - Jacob Schauer
- Division of Biostatistics, Department of Preventive Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - Pamela Souza
- Roxelyn and Richard Pepper Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
- Knowles Hearing Center, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Rallapalli V, Souza P. Feasibility of Tablet-Based Remote Data Collection Method for Measuring Hearing Aid Preference. Am J Audiol 2022; 31:746-756. [PMID: 35914021 DOI: 10.1044/2022_aja-21-00273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility of a tablet-based remote data collection method for measuring preference for hearing aid signal processing features. METHOD Participants were nine individuals with bilateral mild to moderately severe sensorineural hearing loss. Stimuli were spatialized low-context sentences mixed with six-talker babble at two realistic signal-to-noise ratios (3 and 8 dB) and processed through a hearing aid simulator. Preference for full factorial combinations of three common hearing aid processing features (two levels each) was elicited using a paired-comparison task. Participants completed two versions of the experiment: The lab version was completed in a sound-treated booth using a custom MATLAB application on a desktop computer; the remote version was completed in a quiet room in the participant's home, using a custom MATLAB executable application on a tablet. Both versions used the same calibrated headphones. Strict infection control protocols were followed. RESULTS McNemar's test showed no association between preference and data collection method for the majority of the conditions. Percentage agreement and kappa scores were moderate/fair across most conditions. The results indicated that the remote versus lab versions did not have a systematic effect on preference. However, the relatively low agreement and kappa scores suggested within-subject variability in the outcome (preference). CONCLUSION The tablet-based version of remote experimentation was comparable to the lab-based version for eliciting preference for hearing aid signal processing features.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Varsha Rallapalli
- Roxelyn and Richard Pepper Department of Communication Sciences & Disorders, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| | - Pamela Souza
- Roxelyn and Richard Pepper Department of Communication Sciences & Disorders, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL.,Knowles Hearing Center, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Qi S, Chen X, Yang J, Wang X, Tian X, Huang H, Rehmann J, Kuehnel V, Guan J, Xu L. Effects of Adaptive Non-linear Frequency Compression in Hearing Aids on Mandarin Speech and Sound-Quality Perception. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:722970. [PMID: 34483833 PMCID: PMC8414550 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.722970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective This study was aimed at examining the effects of an adaptive non-linear frequency compression algorithm implemented in hearing aids (i.e., SoundRecover2, or SR2) at different parameter settings and auditory acclimatization on speech and sound-quality perception in native Mandarin-speaking adult listeners with sensorineural hearing loss. Design Data consisted of participants’ unaided and aided hearing thresholds, Mandarin consonant and vowel recognition in quiet, and sentence recognition in noise, as well as sound-quality ratings through five sessions in a 12-week period with three SR2 settings (i.e., SR2 off, SR2 default, and SR2 strong). Study Sample Twenty-nine native Mandarin-speaking adults aged 37–76 years old with symmetric sloping moderate-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss were recruited. They were all fitted bilaterally with Phonak Naida V90-SP BTE hearing aids with hard ear-molds. Results The participants demonstrated a significant improvement of aided hearing in detecting high frequency sounds at 8 kHz. For consonant recognition and overall sound-quality rating, the participants performed significantly better with the SR2 default setting than the other two settings. No significant differences were found in vowel and sentence recognition among the three SR2 settings. Test session was a significant factor that contributed to the participants’ performance in all speech and sound-quality perception tests. Specifically, the participants benefited from a longer duration of hearing aid use. Conclusion Findings from this study suggested possible perceptual benefit from the adaptive non-linear frequency compression algorithm for native Mandarin-speaking adults with moderate-to-profound hearing loss. Periods of acclimatization should be taken for better performance in novel technologies in hearing aids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Qi
- Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing Institute of Otolaryngology, Capital Medical University, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Xueqing Chen
- Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing Institute of Otolaryngology, Capital Medical University, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Xianhui Wang
- Division of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Ohio University, Athens, OH, United States
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Li Xu
- Division of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Ohio University, Athens, OH, United States
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chen X, You Y, Yang J, Qian J, Lu Q, Kuehnel V, Rehmann J, Liu B, Xu L. Effects of nonlinear frequency compression on Mandarin speech and sound-quality perception in hearing-aid users. Int J Audiol 2020; 59:524-533. [PMID: 32441563 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2020.1761035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Objective: The purpose of the present study was to examine the effects of NLFC fitting in hearing aids and auditory acclimatisation on speech perception and sound-quality rating in hearing-impaired, native Mandarin-speaking adult listeners.Design: Mandarin consonant, vowel and tone recognition were tested in quiet and sentence recognition in noise (speech-shaped noise at a +5 dB signal-to-noise ratio) with NLFC-on and NLFC-off. Sound-quality ratings were collected on a 0-10 scale at each test session. A generalised linear model and correlational analyses were performed.Study sample: Thirty native Mandarin-speaking adults with moderate-to-severe sensorineural hearing loss were recruited.Results: The hearing-impaired listeners showed significantly higher accuracy with NLFC-on than with NLFC-off for consonant and sentence recognition and the recognition performance improved with both NLFC-on and off as a function of increased length of use. The satisfaction score of sound-quality ratings for different types of sounds significantly increased with NLFC-on than with NLFC-off. The speech recognition results showed moderate to strong correlation with the unaided hearing thresholds.Conclusion: For native Mandarin-speaking listeners with hearing loss, the NLFC technology provided modest but significant improvement in Mandarin fricative and sentence recognition. Subjectively, the naturalness and overall preference of sound-quality satisfaction judgement also improved with NLFC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xueqing Chen
- Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing Institute of Otolaryngology, Capital Medical University, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Yanyan You
- Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing Institute of Otolaryngology, Capital Medical University, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Jinyu Qian
- Innovation Center Toronto, Sonova Canada, Mississauga, ON, Canada.,Department of Communicative Disorders and Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Qian Lu
- Sonova China, Shanghai, China
| | | | | | - Bo Liu
- Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing Institute of Otolaryngology, Capital Medical University, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Li Xu
- Division of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Brosseau-Lapré F, Schumaker J, Kluender KR. Perception of Medial Consonants by Children With and Without Speech and Language Disorders: A Preliminary Study. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY 2020; 29:883-889. [PMID: 32293902 PMCID: PMC7842868 DOI: 10.1044/2020_ajslp-19-00062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this preliminary study was to investigate perception of the early-acquired consonant /p/ and later-acquired consonant /ʃ/ in medial word position by preschoolers with and without speech and language disorders. Method Twenty-four children, six with isolated speech sound disorder (SSD-only), six with SSD and concomitant developmental language disorder (SSD + DLD), and 12 with typical speech and language skills (TD) completed a battery of standardized speech and language tests as well as an identification task of /aCa/ disyllables. Targets and foils varied by only one place, manner, or voice feature. Mixed analysis of variance (participant groups × two target consonants) was conducted to compare performance of children in the three groups (between-subjects) and to compare performance on consonants that are early acquired or later acquired (within-subject). Results All groups of participants were more accurate in perceiving the early-acquired consonant than the later-acquired consonant. Overall performance by children with SSD-only did not differ significantly from children with TD. As a group, children with SSD + DLD were less accurate than children with TD and children with SSD-only for both target consonants. Conclusions Children with SSD + DLD performed less well than peers with SSD-only and with TD with both predictably easy and difficult sound contrasts. Children with SSD-only performed nominally less well than children with TD for the speech sound with which they have difficulty, but this difference did not reach statistical significance for these relatively small group sizes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jennifer Schumaker
- Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN
| | - Keith R. Kluender
- Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Xu L, Voss SC, Yang J, Wang X, Lu Q, Rehmann J, Kuehnel V, Qian J. Speech Perception and Sound-Quality Rating with an Adaptive Nonlinear Frequency Compression Algorithm in Mandarin-Speaking Hearing Aid Users. J Am Acad Audiol 2020; 31:590-598. [PMID: 32340058 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1709450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mandarin Chinese has a rich repertoire of high-frequency speech sounds. This may pose a remarkable challenge to hearing-impaired listeners who speak Mandarin Chinese because of their high-frequency sloping hearing loss. An adaptive nonlinear frequency compression (adaptive NLFC) algorithm has been implemented in contemporary hearing aids to alleviate the problem. PURPOSE The present study examined the performance of speech perception and sound-quality rating in Mandarin-speaking hearing-impaired listeners using hearing aids fitted with adaptive NLFC (i.e., SoundRecover2 or SR2) at different parameter settings. RESEARCH DESIGN Hearing-impaired listeners' phoneme detection thresholds, speech reception thresholds, and sound-quality ratings were collected with various SR2 settings. STUDY SAMPLE The participants included 15 Mandarin-speaking adults aged 32 to 84 years old who had symmetric sloping severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss. INTERVENTION The participants were fitted bilaterally with Phonak Naida V90-SP hearing aids. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS The outcome measures included phoneme detection threshold using the Mandarin Phonak Phoneme Perception test, speech reception threshold using the Mandarin hearing in noise test (M-HINT), and sound-quality ratings on human speech in quiet and noise, bird chirps, and music in quiet. For each test, five experimental settings were applied and compared: SR2-off, SR2-weak, SR2-default, SR2-strong 1, and SR2-strong 2. RESULTS The results showed that listeners performed significantly better with SR2-strong 1 and SR2-strong 2 settings than with SR2-off or SR2-weak settings for speech reception threshold and phoneme detection threshold. However, no significant improvement was observed in sound-quality ratings among different settings. CONCLUSIONS These preliminary findings suggested that the adaptive NLFC algorithm provides perceptual benefit to Mandarin-speaking people with severe-to-profound hearing loss.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Xu
- Communication Sciences and Disorders, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio
| | - Solveig C Voss
- Innovation Centre Toronto, Sonova Canada, Inc., Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jing Yang
- Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Xianhui Wang
- Communication Sciences and Disorders, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio
| | - Qian Lu
- Innovation Center Shanghai, Sonova China, Shanghai, China
| | | | | | - Jinyu Qian
- Innovation Centre Toronto, Sonova Canada, Inc., Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Rallapalli V, Anderson M, Kates J, Balmert L, Sirow L, Arehart K, Souza P. Quantifying the Range of Signal Modification in Clinically Fit Hearing Aids. Ear Hear 2020; 41:433-441. [PMID: 31408045 PMCID: PMC7007831 DOI: 10.1097/aud.0000000000000767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Hearing aids provide various signal processing techniques with a range of parameters to improve the listening experience for a hearing-impaired individual. In previous studies, we reported significant differences in signal modification for mild versus strong signal processing in commercially available hearing aids. In this study, the authors extend this work to clinically prescribed hearing aid fittings based on best-practice guidelines. The goals of this project are to determine the range of cumulative signal modification in clinically fit hearing aids across manufacturers and technology levels and the effects of listening conditions including signal to noise ratio (SNR) and presentation level on these signal modifications. DESIGN We identified a subset of hearing aids that were representative of a typical clinical setting. Deidentified hearing aid fitting data were obtained from three audiology clinics for adult hearing aid users with sensorineural hearing loss for a range of hearing sensitivities. Matching laboratory hearing aids were programmed with the deidentified fitting data. Output from these hearing aids was recorded at four SNRs and three presentation levels. The resulting signal modification was quantified using the cepstral correlation component of the Hearing Aid Speech Quality Index which measures the speech envelope changes in the context of a model of the listener's hearing loss. These metric values represent the hearing aid processed signal as it is heard by the hearing aid user. Audiometric information was used to determine the nature of any possible association with the distribution of signal modification in these clinically fit hearing aids. RESULTS In general, signal modification increased as SNR decreased and presentation level increased. Differences across manufacturers were significant such that the effect of presentation level varied differently at each SNR, for each manufacturer. This result suggests that there may be variations across manufacturers in processing various listening conditions. There was no significant effect of technology level. There was a small effect of pure-tone average on signal modification for one manufacturer, but no effect of audiogram slope. Finally, there was a broad range of measured signal modification for a given hearing loss, for the same manufacturer and listening condition. CONCLUSIONS The signal modification values in this study are representative of commonly fit hearing aids in clinics today. The results of this study provide insights into how the range of signal modifications obtained in real clinical fittings compares with a previous study. Future studies will focus on the behavioral implications of signal modifications in clinically fit hearing aids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Varsha Rallapalli
- Department of Communication Sciences & Disorders, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
| | - Melinda Anderson
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - James Kates
- Department of Speech Language Hearing Sciences, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - Lauren Balmert
- Biostatistics Collaboration Center, Department of Preventive Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Lynn Sirow
- I Love Hearing Inc., Port Washington, New York, USA
| | - Kathryn Arehart
- Department of Speech Language Hearing Sciences, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - Pamela Souza
- Department of Communication Sciences & Disorders, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
- Knowles Hearing Center, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Salorio-Corbetto M, Baer T, Moore BCJ. Comparison of Frequency Transposition and Frequency Compression for People With Extensive Dead Regions in the Cochlea. Trends Hear 2019; 23:2331216518822206. [PMID: 30803386 PMCID: PMC6330725 DOI: 10.1177/2331216518822206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective was to determine the effects of two frequency-lowering algorithms (frequency transposition, FT, and frequency compression, FC) on audibility, speech identification, and subjective benefit, for people with high-frequency hearing loss and extensive dead regions (DRs) in the cochlea. A single-blind randomized crossover design was used. FT and FC were compared with each other and with a control condition (denoted ‘Control’) without frequency lowering, using hearing aids that were otherwise identical. Data were collected after at least 6 weeks of experience with a condition. Outcome measures were audibility, scores for consonant identification, scores for word-final /s, z/ detection (S test), sentence-in-noise intelligibility, and a questionnaire assessing self-perceived benefit (Spatial and Qualities of Hearing Scale). Ten adults with steeply sloping high-frequency hearing loss and extensive DRs were tested. FT and FC improved the audibility of some high-frequency sounds for 7 and 9 participants out of 10, respectively. At the group level, performance for FT and FC did not differ significantly from that for Control for any of the outcome measures. However, the pattern of consonant confusions varied across conditions. Bayesian analysis of the confusion matrices revealed a trend for FT to lead to more consistent error patterns than FC and Control. Thus, FT may have the potential to give greater benefit than Control or FC following extended experience or training.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomas Baer
- 1 Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Brian C J Moore
- 1 Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Cambridge, UK
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Alexander JM. The S-SH Confusion Test and the Effects of Frequency Lowering. JOURNAL OF SPEECH, LANGUAGE, AND HEARING RESEARCH : JSLHR 2019; 62:1486-1505. [PMID: 31063023 DOI: 10.1044/2018_jslhr-h-18-0267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Frequency lowering in hearing aids can cause listeners to perceive [s] as [ʃ]. The S-SH Confusion Test, which consists of 66 minimal word pairs spoken by 6 female talkers, was designed to help clinicians and researchers document these negative side effects. This study's purpose was to use this new test to evaluate the hypothesis that these confusions will increase to the extent that low frequencies are altered. Method Twenty-one listeners with normal hearing were each tested on 7 conditions. Three were control conditions that were low-pass filtered at 3.3, 5.0, and 9.1 kHz. Four conditions were processed with nonlinear frequency compression (NFC): 2 had a 3.3-kHz maximum audible output frequency (MAOF), with a start frequency (SF) of 1.6 or 2.2 kHz; 2 had a 5.0-kHz MAOF, with an SF of 1.6 or 4.0 kHz. Listeners' responses were analyzed using concepts from signal detection theory. Response times were also collected as a measure of cognitive processing. Results Overall, [s] for [ʃ] confusions were minimal. As predicted, [ʃ] for [s] confusions increased for NFC conditions with a lower versus higher MAOF and with a lower versus higher SF. Response times for trials with correct [s] responses were shortest for the 9.1-kHz control and increased for the 5.0- and 3.3-kHz controls. NFC response times were also significantly longer as MAOF and SF decreased. The NFC condition with the highest MAOF and SF had statistically shorter response times than its control condition, indicating that, under some circumstances, NFC may ease cognitive processing. Conclusions Large differences in the S-SH Confusion Test across frequency-lowering conditions show that it can be used to document a major negative side effect associated with frequency lowering. Smaller but significant differences in response times for correct [s] trials indicate that NFC can help or hinder cognitive processing, depending on its settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua M Alexander
- Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, Purdue University,West Lafayette, Indiana
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Glista D, Scollie S. The Use of Frequency Lowering Technology in the Treatment of Severe-to-Profound Hearing Loss: A Review of the Literature and Candidacy Considerations for Clinical Application. Semin Hear 2018; 39:377-389. [PMID: 30374209 DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1670700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
This article provides a review of the current literature on the topic of frequency lowering hearing aid technology specific to the treatment of severe and profound levels of hearing impairment in child and adult listeners. Factors to consider when assessing listener candidacy for frequency lowering technology are discussed. These include factors related to audiometric assessment, the listener, the type of hearing aid technology, and the verification and validation procedures that can assist in determining candidacy for frequency lowering technology. An individualized candidacy assessment including the use of real-ear verification measures and carefully chosen validation tools are recommended for listeners requiring greater audibility of high-frequency sounds, when compared with amplification via conventional hearing aid technology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Glista
- National Centre for Audiology/Communication Sciences and Disorders, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Susan Scollie
- National Centre for Audiology/Communication Sciences and Disorders, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kirby BJ, Kopun JG, Spratford M, Mollak CM, Brennan MA, McCreery RW. Listener Performance with a Novel Hearing Aid Frequency Lowering Technique. J Am Acad Audiol 2018; 28:810-822. [PMID: 28972470 DOI: 10.3766/jaaa.16157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sloping hearing loss imposes limits on audibility for high-frequency sounds in many hearing aid users. Signal processing algorithms that shift high-frequency sounds to lower frequencies have been introduced in hearing aids to address this challenge by improving audibility of high-frequency sounds. PURPOSE This study examined speech perception performance, listening effort, and subjective sound quality ratings with conventional hearing aid processing and a new frequency-lowering signal processing strategy called frequency composition (FC) in adults and children. RESEARCH DESIGN Participants wore the study hearing aids in two signal processing conditions (conventional processing versus FC) at an initial laboratory visit and subsequently at home during two approximately six-week long trials, with the order of conditions counterbalanced across individuals in a double-blind paradigm. STUDY SAMPLE Children (N = 12, 7 females, mean age in years = 12.0, SD = 3.0) and adults (N = 12, 6 females, mean age in years = 56.2, SD = 17.6) with bilateral sensorineural hearing loss who were full-time hearing aid users. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSES Individual performance with each type of processing was assessed using speech perception tasks, a measure of listening effort, and subjective sound quality surveys at an initial visit. At the conclusion of each subsequent at-home trial, participants were retested in the laboratory. Linear mixed effects analyses were completed for each outcome measure with signal processing condition, age group, visit (prehome versus posthome trial), and measures of aided audibility as predictors. RESULTS Overall, there were few significant differences in speech perception, listening effort, or subjective sound quality between FC and conventional processing, effects of listener age, or longitudinal changes in performance. Listeners preferred FC to conventional processing on one of six subjective sound quality metrics. Better speech perception performance was consistently related to higher aided audibility. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that when high-frequency speech sounds are made audible with conventional processing, speech recognition ability and listening effort are similar between conventional processing and FC. Despite the lack of benefit to speech perception, some listeners still preferred FC, suggesting that qualitative measures should be considered when evaluating candidacy for this signal processing strategy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin J Kirby
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Illinois State University, Normal, IL
| | | | | | - Clairissa M Mollak
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Brennan MA, Lewis D, McCreery R, Kopun J, Alexander JM. Listening Effort and Speech Recognition with Frequency Compression Amplification for Children and Adults with Hearing Loss. J Am Acad Audiol 2018; 28:823-837. [PMID: 28972471 DOI: 10.3766/jaaa.16158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonlinear frequency compression (NFC) can improve the audibility of high-frequency sounds by lowering them to a frequency where audibility is better; however, this lowering results in spectral distortion. Consequently, performance is a combination of the effects of increased access to high-frequency sounds and the detrimental effects of spectral distortion. Previous work has demonstrated positive benefits of NFC on speech recognition when NFC is set to improve audibility while minimizing distortion. However, the extent to which NFC impacts listening effort is not well understood, especially for children with sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). PURPOSE To examine the impact of NFC on recognition and listening effort for speech in adults and children with SNHL. RESEARCH DESIGN Within-subject, quasi-experimental study. Participants listened to amplified nonsense words that were (1) frequency-lowered using NFC, (2) low-pass filtered at 5 kHz to simulate the restricted bandwidth (RBW) of conventional hearing aid processing, or (3) low-pass filtered at 10 kHz to simulate extended bandwidth (EBW) amplification. STUDY SAMPLE Fourteen children (8-16 yr) and 14 adults (19-65 yr) with mild-to-severe SNHL. INTERVENTION Participants listened to speech processed by a hearing aid simulator that amplified input signals to fit a prescriptive target fitting procedure. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Participants were blinded to the type of processing. Participants' responses to each nonsense word were analyzed for accuracy and verbal-response time (VRT; listening effort). A multivariate analysis of variance and linear mixed model were used to determine the effect of hearing-aid signal processing on nonsense word recognition and VRT. RESULTS Both children and adults identified the nonsense words and initial consonants better with EBW and NFC than with RBW. The type of processing did not affect the identification of the vowels or final consonants. There was no effect of age on recognition of the nonsense words, initial consonants, medial vowels, or final consonants. VRT did not change significantly with the type of processing or age. CONCLUSION Both adults and children demonstrated improved speech recognition with access to the high-frequency sounds in speech. Listening effort as measured by VRT was not affected by access to high-frequency sounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marc A Brennan
- Amplification and Perception Laboratory, Boys Town National Research Hospital, Omaha, NE
| | - Dawna Lewis
- Amplification and Perception Laboratory, Boys Town National Research Hospital, Omaha, NE
| | - Ryan McCreery
- Amplification and Perception Laboratory, Boys Town National Research Hospital, Omaha, NE
| | - Judy Kopun
- Amplification and Perception Laboratory, Boys Town National Research Hospital, Omaha, NE
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Yang J, Qian J, Chen X, Kuehnel V, Rehmann J, von Buol A, Li Y, Ren C, Liu B, Xu L. Effects of nonlinear frequency compression on the acoustic properties and recognition of speech sounds in Mandarin Chinese. THE JOURNAL OF THE ACOUSTICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2018; 143:1578. [PMID: 29604675 DOI: 10.1121/1.5027404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The present study examined the change in spectral properties of Mandarin vowels and fricatives caused by nonlinear frequency compression (NLFC) used in hearing instruments and how these changes affect the perception of speech sounds in normal-hearing listeners. Speech materials, including a list of Mandarin monosyllables in the form of /dV/ (12 vowels) and /Ca/ (five fricatives), were recorded from 20 normal-hearing, native Mandarin-speaking adults (ten males and ten females). NLFC was based on Phonak SoundRecover algorithms. The speech materials were processed with six different NLFC parameter settings. Detailed acoustic analysis revealed that the high front vowel /i/ and certain compound vowels containing /i/ demonstrated positional deviation in certain processed conditions in comparison to the unprocessed condition. All five fricatives showed acoustic changes in spectral features in all processed conditions. Fourteen Mandarin-speaking, normal-hearing adult listeners performed phoneme recognition with the six NLFC processing conditions. When the cut-off frequency was set relatively low, recognition of /s/ was detrimentally affected, whereas none of the NLFC processing configurations affected the other phonemes. The discrepancy between the considerable acoustic changes and the negligible adverse effects on perceptual outcomes is partially accounted for by the phonology system and phonotactic constraints in Mandarin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yang
- Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Central Arkansas, Conway, Arkansas 72035, USA
| | - Jinyu Qian
- Sonova China, 757 Mengzi Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Xueqing Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Volker Kuehnel
- Sonova AG, Laubisruetistrasse 28, 8712 Staefa, Switzerland
| | - Julia Rehmann
- Sonova AG, Laubisruetistrasse 28, 8712 Staefa, Switzerland
| | | | - Yulin Li
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Cuncun Ren
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Bo Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Li Xu
- Communication Sciences and Disorders, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio 45701, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Anderson MC, Arehart KH, Souza PE. Survey of Current Practice in the Fitting and Fine-Tuning of Common Signal-Processing Features in Hearing Aids for Adults. J Am Acad Audiol 2018; 29:118-124. [PMID: 29401059 PMCID: PMC6366669 DOI: 10.3766/jaaa.16107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current guidelines for adult hearing aid fittings recommend the use of a prescriptive fitting rationale with real-ear verification that considers the audiogram for the determination of frequency-specific gain and ratios for wide dynamic range compression. However, the guidelines lack recommendations for how other common signal-processing features (e.g., noise reduction, frequency lowering, directional microphones) should be considered during the provision of hearing aid fittings and fine-tunings for adult patients. PURPOSE The purpose of this survey was to identify how audiologists make clinical decisions regarding common signal-processing features for hearing aid provision in adults. RESEARCH DESIGN An online survey was sent to audiologists across the United States. The 22 survey questions addressed four primary topics including demographics of the responding audiologists, factors affecting selection of hearing aid devices, the approaches used in the fitting of signal-processing features, and the strategies used in the fine-tuning of these features. STUDY SAMPLE A total of 251 audiologists who provide hearing aid fittings to adults completed the electronically distributed survey. The respondents worked in a variety of settings including private practice, physician offices, university clinics, and hospitals/medical centers. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Data analysis was based on a qualitative analysis of the question responses. The survey results for each of the four topic areas (demographics, device selection, hearing aid fitting, and hearing aid fine-tuning) are summarized descriptively. RESULTS Survey responses indicate that audiologists vary in the procedures they use in fitting and fine-tuning based on the specific feature, such that the approaches used for the fitting of frequency-specific gain differ from other types of features (i.e., compression time constants, frequency lowering parameters, noise reduction strength, directional microphones, feedback management). Audiologists commonly rely on prescriptive fitting formulas and probe microphone measures for the fitting of frequency-specific gain and rely on manufacturers' default settings and recommendations for both the initial fitting and the fine-tuning of signal-processing features other than frequency-specific gain. CONCLUSIONS The survey results are consistent with a lack of published protocols and guidelines for fitting and adjusting signal-processing features beyond frequency-specific gain. To streamline current practice, a transparent evidence-based tool that enables clinicians to prescribe the setting of other features from individual patient characteristics would be desirable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melinda C Anderson
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
- University of Colorado, Boulder, CO
| | | | - Pamela E Souza
- Knowles Hearing Center, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Wolfe J, Duke M, Schafer EC, Rehmann J, Jha S, Allegro Baumann S, John A, Jones C. Preliminary evaluation of a novel non-linear frequency compression scheme for use in children. Int J Audiol 2017; 56:976-988. [PMID: 28851244 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2017.1358467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The primary goal of this study was to evaluate a new form of non-linear frequency compression (NLFC) in children. The new NLFC processing scheme is adaptive and potentially allows for a better preservation of the spectral characteristics of the input sounds when compared to conventional NLFC processing. DESIGN A repeated-measures design was utilised to compare the speech perception of the participants with two configurations of the new adaptive NLFC processing to their performance with the existing NLFC. The outcome measures included the University of Western Ontario Plurals test, the Consonant-Nucleus-Consonant word recognition test, and the Phonak Phoneme Perception test. STUDY SAMPLE Study participants included 14 children, aged 6-17 years, with mild-to-severe low-frequency hearing loss and severe-to-profound high-frequency hearing loss. RESULTS The results indicated that the use of the new adaptive NLFC processing resulted in significantly better average word recognition and plural detection relative to the conventional NLFC processing. CONCLUSION Overall, the adaptive NLFC processing evaluated in this study has the potential to significantly improve speech perception relative to conventional NLFC processing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jace Wolfe
- a Hearts for Hearing , Oklahoma City , OK , USA
| | - Mila Duke
- a Hearts for Hearing , Oklahoma City , OK , USA
| | - Erin C Schafer
- b Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences , University of North Texas , Denton , TX , USA
| | - Julia Rehmann
- c Sonova AG, Science and Technology Department , Stafa , Switzerland
| | - Siddhartha Jha
- c Sonova AG, Science and Technology Department , Stafa , Switzerland
| | | | - Andrew John
- d Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders , University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center , Oklahoma City , OK , USA and
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Alexander JM, Rallapalli V. Acoustic and perceptual effects of amplitude and frequency compression on high-frequency speech. THE JOURNAL OF THE ACOUSTICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2017; 142:908. [PMID: 28863610 DOI: 10.1121/1.4997938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated how six different amplification methods influence acoustic properties, and subsequently perception, of high-frequency cues in fricatives that have been processed with conventional full bandwidth amplification or nonlinear frequency compression (NFC)-12 conditions total. Amplification methods included linear gain, fast/slow-acting wide dynamic range compression crossed with fixed/individualized compression parameters, and a method with adaptive time constants. Twenty-one hearing-impaired listeners identified seven fricatives in nonsense syllables produced by female talkers. For NFC stimuli, frequency-compressed filters that precisely aligned 1/3-octave bands between input and output were used to quantify effective compression ratio, audibility, and temporal envelope modulation relative to the input. Results indicated significant relationships between these acoustic properties, each of which contributed significantly to fricative recognition across the entire corpus of stimuli. Recognition was significantly better for NFC stimuli compared with full bandwidth stimuli, regardless of the amplification method, which had complementary effects on audibility and envelope modulation. Furthermore, while there were significant differences in recognition across the amplification methods, they were not consistent across phonemes. Therefore, neither recognition nor acoustic data overwhelmingly suggest that one amplification method should be used over another for transmission of high-frequency cues in isolated syllables. Longer duration stimuli and more realistic listening conditions should be examined.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua M Alexander
- Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, USA
| | - Varsha Rallapalli
- Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Mao Y, Yang J, Hahn E, Xu L. Auditory perceptual efficacy of nonlinear frequency compression used in hearing aids: A review. J Otol 2017; 12:97-111. [PMID: 29937844 PMCID: PMC5963461 DOI: 10.1016/j.joto.2017.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Revised: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 06/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Many patients with sensorineural hearing loss have a precipitous high-frequency loss with relatively good thresholds in the low frequencies. This present paper briefly introduces and compares the basic principles of four types of frequency lowering algorithms with emphasis on nonlinear frequency compression (NLFC). A review of the effects of the NLFC algorithm on speech and music perception and sound quality appraisal is then provided. For vowel perception, it seems that the benefits provided by NLFC are limited, which are probably related to the parameter settings of the compression. For consonant perception, several studies have shown that NLFC provides improved perception of high-frequency consonants such as /s/ and /z/. However, a few other studies have demonstrated negative results in consonant perception. In terms of sentence recognition, persistent use of NLFC might provide improved performance. Compared to the conventional processing, NLFC does not alter the speech sound quality appraisal and music perception as long as the compression setting is not too aggressive. In the subsequent section, the relevant factors with regard to NLFC settings, time-course of acclimatization, listener characteristics, and perceptual tasks are discussed. Although the literature shows mixed results on the perceptual efficacy of NLFC, this technique improved certain aspects of speech understanding in certain hearing-impaired listeners. Little research is available on speech perception outcomes in languages other than English. More clinical data are needed to verify the perceptual efficacy of NLFC in patients with precipitous high-frequency hearing loss. Such knowledge will help guide clinical rehabilitation of those patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yitao Mao
- Department of Radiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Communication Sciences and Disorders, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
| | - Jing Yang
- Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Central Arkansas, Conway, AR, USA
| | - Emily Hahn
- Communication Sciences and Disorders, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
| | - Li Xu
- Communication Sciences and Disorders, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Giroud N, Lemke U, Reich P, Matthes KL, Meyer M. The impact of hearing aids and age-related hearing loss on auditory plasticity across three months - An electrical neuroimaging study. Hear Res 2017; 353:162-175. [PMID: 28705608 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2017.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Revised: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 06/28/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The present study investigates behavioral and electrophysiological auditory and cognitive-related plasticity in three groups of healthy older adults (60-77 years). Group 1 was moderately hearing-impaired, experienced hearing aid users, and fitted with new hearing aids using non-linear frequency compression (NLFC on); Group 2, also moderately hearing-impaired, used the same type of hearing aids but NLFC was switched off during the entire period of study duration (NLFC off); Group 3 represented individuals with age-appropriate hearing (NHO) as controls, who were not different in IQ, gender, or age from Group 1 and 2. At five measurement time points (M1-M5) across three months, a series of active oddball tasks were administered while EEG was recorded. The stimuli comprised syllables consisting of naturally high-pitched fricatives (/sh/, /s/, and /f/), which are hard to distinguish for individuals with presbycusis. By applying a data-driven microstate approach to obtain global field power (GFP) as a measure of processing effort, the modulations of perceptual (P50, N1, P2) and cognitive-related (N2b, P3b) auditory evoked potentials were calculated and subsequently related to behavioral changes (accuracy and reaction time) across time. All groups improved their performance across time, but NHO showed consistently higher accuracy and faster reaction times than the hearing-impaired groups, especially under difficult conditions. Electrophysiological results complemented this finding by demonstrating longer latencies in the P50 and the N1 peak in hearing aid users. Furthermore, the GFP of cognitive-related evoked potentials decreased from M1 to M2 in the NHO group, while a comparable decrease in the hearing-impaired group was only evident at M5. After twelve weeks of hearing aid use of eight hours each day, we found a significantly lower GFP in the P3b of the group with NLFC on as compared to the group with NLFC off. These findings suggest higher processing effort, as evidenced by higher GFP, in hearing-impaired individuals when compared to those with normal hearing, although the hearing-impaired show a decrease of processing effort after repeated stimulus exposure. In addition, our findings indicate that the acclimatization to a new hearing aid algorithm may take several weeks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Giroud
- Research Unit for Neuroplasticity and Learning in the Healthy Aging Brain, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Andreasstrasse 15/2, CH-8050 Zurich, Switzerland; University Research Priority Program "Dynamics of Healthy Aging", Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Andreasstrasse 15/2, CH-8050 Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Ulrike Lemke
- Science & Technology, Phonak AG, Laubisrütistrasse 28, CH-8712 Stäfa, Switzerland.
| | - Philip Reich
- Research Unit for Neuroplasticity and Learning in the Healthy Aging Brain, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Andreasstrasse 15/2, CH-8050 Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Katarina L Matthes
- Science & Technology, Phonak AG, Laubisrütistrasse 28, CH-8712 Stäfa, Switzerland.
| | - Martin Meyer
- Research Unit for Neuroplasticity and Learning in the Healthy Aging Brain, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Andreasstrasse 15/2, CH-8050 Zurich, Switzerland; University Research Priority Program "Dynamics of Healthy Aging", Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Andreasstrasse 15/2, CH-8050 Zurich, Switzerland; Cognitive Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, University of Klagenfurt, Universitätsstrasse 65-67, A-9020 Klagenfurt, Austria.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Salem MSA, Talaat MA, Mourad MI. Edge frequency effect on speech recognition in patients with steep-slope hearing loss. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF OTOLARYNGOLOGY 2017. [DOI: 10.4103/1012-5574.199416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
|
20
|
Salorio-Corbetto M, Baer T, Moore BCJ. Quality ratings of frequency-compressed speech by participants with extensive high-frequency dead regions in the cochlea. Int J Audiol 2017; 56:106-120. [PMID: 27724057 PMCID: PMC5283379 DOI: 10.1080/14992027.2016.1234071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2015] [Revised: 02/19/2016] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective was to assess the degradation of speech sound quality produced by frequency compression for listeners with extensive high-frequency dead regions (DRs). DESIGN Quality ratings were obtained using values of the starting frequency (Sf) of the frequency compression both below and above the estimated edge frequency, fe, of each DR. Thus, the value of Sf often fell below the lowest value currently used in clinical practice. Several compression ratios were used for each value of Sf. Stimuli were sentences processed via a prototype hearing aid based on Phonak Exélia Art P. STUDY SAMPLE Five participants (eight ears) with extensive high-frequency DRs were tested. RESULTS Reductions of sound-quality produced by frequency compression were small to moderate. Ratings decreased significantly with decreasing Sf and increasing CR. The mean ratings were lowest for the lowest Sf and highest CR. Ratings varied across participants, with one participant rating frequency compression lower than no frequency compression even when Sf was above fe. CONCLUSIONS Frequency compression degraded sound quality somewhat for this small group of participants with extensive high-frequency DRs. The degradation was greater for lower values of Sf relative to fe, and for greater values of CR. Results varied across participants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomas Baer
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Cambridge,
Cambridge,
UK
| | - Brian C. J. Moore
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Cambridge,
Cambridge,
UK
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Salorio-Corbetto M, Baer T, Moore BCJ. Evaluation of a Frequency-Lowering Algorithm for Adults With High-Frequency Hearing Loss. Trends Hear 2017; 21:2331216517734455. [PMID: 29027511 PMCID: PMC5642012 DOI: 10.1177/2331216517734455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Revised: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 09/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective was to determine the effects of a frequency-lowering algorithm (frequency composition, Fcomp) on consonant identification, word-final /s, z/ detection, the intelligibility of sentences in noise, and subjective benefit, for people with high-frequency hearing loss, including people with dead regions (DRs) in the cochlea. A single-blind randomized crossover design was used. Performance with Bernafon Acriva 9 hearing aids was compared with Fcomp off and Fcomp on. Participants wore the hearing aids in each condition in a counterbalanced order. Data were collected after at least 8 weeks of experience with a condition. Outcome measures were audibility, scores from the speech perception tests, and scores from a questionnaire comparing self-perceived hearing ability with Fcomp off and Fcomp on. Ten adults with mild to severe high-frequency hearing loss (seven with extensive DRs, one with patchy or restricted DRs, and two with no DR) were tested. Fcomp improved the audibility of high-frequency sounds for 6 out of 10 participants. There was no overall effect of Fcomp on consonant identification, but the pattern of consonant confusions varied across conditions and participants. For word-final /s, z/ detection, performance was significantly better with Fcomp on than with Fcomp off. Questionnaire scores showed no differences between conditions. In summary, Fcomp improved word-final /s, z/ detection. No benefit was found for the other measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomas Baer
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Cambridge, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|