Speech Sound Stimulation for Language Disorder

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Overseen byTaylor Abel, MD

Age: < 65

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: University of Pittsburgh

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

The purpose of this study is to better understand cortical contributions of the human temporal lobe to the frequency-following response. Frequency-following responses (FFR) are electrophysiological recordings that reflect phase-locked activity of neural ensembles in the auditory pathway and are used as an indicator of the integrity of supra-threshold speech processing. FFR was first studied in subcortical areas, but recent consensus in the literature supports the notion that it is an integrated response between subcortical and cortical neural populations. The proposed study aims to deconstruct the role of the cortex in generating and modulating the FFR. The research team will build a novel computational model of FFR mechanisms and use EEG recordings from participants who have undergone resection of lesions in Heschl's gyrus to validate model predictions.

Research Team

Taylor Abel, MD

Principal Investigator

University of Pittsburgh

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for individuals aged 13-25 with normal nonverbal IQ, vision, language skills, and hearing. They must be monolingual English speakers undergoing surgery for a lesion in Heschl's gyrus without autism or ADHD history.

Inclusion Criteria

Nonverbal IQ within normal limits

I have normal hearing in both ears.

I am between 13 and 25 years old.

See 5 more

Exclusion Criteria

History of autism or ADHD

I do not have any major health or mental issues preventing me from joining the study.

Treatment Details

Interventions

Speech sound stimulation (Behavioral Intervention)

Trial OverviewThe study aims to understand the role of the cortex in generating frequency-following responses (FFR) related to speech processing by using EEG recordings and creating a computational model.

Participant Groups

1Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Group I: Neurosurgical PatientsExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Patient participants with previously excised tissue within Heschl's gyrus (as dictated by clinical care)