The effect of stimulus duration on preferences for gain adjustments when listening to speech
In the realm of personalization of hearing-aid fittings, adjusting gain to suit individual preferences is crucial. Researchers have investigated the impact of stimulus duration on preferences for gain adjustments when listening to speech. By utilizing brief sentences as stimuli, they determined the minimum adjustments necessary to elicit consistent preferences. This study, published in the International Journal of Audiology, sheds light on the intricate balance required in optimizing hearing-aid fittings for varying speech durations.
Clinical Trials and Outcome Measures in Adults With Hearing Loss
Clinical trials play a pivotal role in evaluating interventions for preventing, diagnosing, or treating health conditions, including hearing loss. Researchers have delved into the realm of clinical trials and outcome measures in adults with hearing loss to enhance the evidence base for healthcare practices. Published in Frontiers in Psychology, this study by Munro et al. explores the landscape of clinical assessments to refine and improve interventions for individuals with hearing impairment.
Longitudinal associations between hearing loss and general cognitive ability: the Lothian Birth Cohort 1936
Hearing loss has been linked to poorer cognitive function in later stages of life. Investigating possible connections, researchers explored longitudinal associations between hearing loss and general cognitive ability within the Lothian Birth Cohort 1936. By examining childhood cognitive ability's influence on this relationship, Okely et al.'s study, published in Psychology and Aging, highlights the multifaceted nature of cognitive decline and hearing impairment.
International Collegium of Rehabilitative Audiology (ICRA) recommendations for the construction of multilingual speech tests
Developing standardized guidelines for constructing multilingual speech tests is critical for ensuring consistent assessment across languages. The ICRA Working Group on Multilingual Speech Tests, as documented in the International Journal of Audiology, provides comprehensive recommendations for creating closed-set speech-perception tests. This collaborative effort by Akeroyd et al. sets the stage for improved cross-language assessment methodologies in audiology.
Distractions during critical phases of anaesthesia for caesarean section: an observational study
Maintaining focus during critical phases of medical procedures is paramount for patient safety. A study by Jenkins et al. analyzed distractions during anaesthesia for caesarean sections, akin to aviation's 'sterile cockpit' rule. Their observational research, published in Anaesthesia, underscores the importance of minimizing distractions in high-stakes medical scenarios to ensure optimal patient care and procedural outcomes.
A method for measuring the intelligibility of uninterrupted, continuous speech
Assessing speech intelligibility in uninterrupted, continuous contexts presents unique challenges. MacPherson and Akeroyd's study, published in the Journal of the Acoustical Society of America, proposes a novel method for measuring intelligibility in ongoing, linguistically complex speech scenarios. By refining speech-in-noise testing methodologies, this research contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of speech perception and communication difficulties.
Estimates of the number of adults in England, Wales, and Scotland with a hearing loss
Quantifying the prevalence of hearing loss among adults in specific regions is essential for healthcare planning and resource allocation. Akeroyd et al.'s study presents estimates of the number of adults with hearing impairment in England, Wales, and Scotland. Published in the International Journal of Audiology, this research serves as a valuable epidemiological resource for understanding and addressing the challenges faced by individuals with hearing difficulties in these geographic areas.