Speech Therapy Research Articles

Non-Nutritive Suck and Parent Report of Feeding Skills in Infants Born With Cleft Lip and/or Palate

Objective To compare non-nutritive sucking (NNS) and caregiver-reported feeding skills in infants with cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) to a control group of typically developing infants without CL/P. To examine differences in NNS patterns and feeding behavior between cleft phenotypes. Design Prospective, cross-sectional study comparing infants born with CL/P to an age-matched control group with no congenital anomalies. Setting Urban, academic, tertiary care children's hospital and academic department of speech-language pathology. Patients, Participants Forty-two infants (21 with CL/P; 21 without CL/P), 6 months of age and younger were included. Infants with syndromes or who underwent cleft repair were excluded. Main Outcome Measures A 5min NNS sample was collected from the infant sucking on the lab's custom research pacifier. The infant's caregiver completed the Neonatal Eating Assessment Tool (NeoEAT) bottle-feeding section about their infant's feeding behaviors. Results Infants with CL/P demonstrated slower NNS frequency ( P = .04) and reduced suck amplitude ( P = .04) compared to the control group. Caregivers of infants with CL/P reported a higher incidence of gastrointestinal symptoms ( P = .04) and overall feeding difficulties ( P = .03) relative to the control group. There were no significant differences between CL/P phenotypes for NNS or caregiver reported outcomes. Conclusions Infants with CL/P demonstrate differences in NNS physiology and caregiver report measures of feeding compared to age-matched controls. These findings support the need for interventions to optimize sucking and feeding skill development in infants with CL/P.

Why imitation matters for a speech and language pathologist?

Dear Editor, I want to shed light on an important preverbal skill “Imitation” for speech Language Pathologists and parents. Imitation arises very early in typical development and serves as a pivotal factor in a baby's acquisition of new skills from infancy, toddler stage, childhood and beyond. Initially, a newborn's abilities, like sucking for feeding, are reflexive and innate, requiring no explicit teaching.1 In typical development, learning to imitate often occurs spontaneously. Observing and mimicking parents, siblings, or peers is how a child learns to navigate various milestones, such as feeding, using the potty, riding a bike, writing, and tying shoes.2. Additionally, imitation plays a significant role in social development, aiding in making friends and learning to interact and play with others. 3 There are many levels of imitation developed by professionals in the form of hierarchy. Organizing them into smaller, achievable steps with practical examples and detailed instructions serves as a helpful reminder.4 The following are the levels of imitation: Level-1: The child will mimic actions with objects Your goal is for the child to mimic listed actions. Demonstrate each action 3 to 5 times, assisting if needed. Use simple language and short phrases. For example; 1-Pop a bubble on the floor with your hand, saying "Pop!" 2-Pop a bubble in the air with your finger, also saying "Pop!" Level-2: The child will mimic movements, gestures, and sign language with bubbles Demonstrate the body movements and gestures for the child to copy. Assist him in performing each gesture after showing him 3 to 5 times. Remember, the child is not expected to talk yet, but your simple and repetitive words are crucial. For example; 1-Kick, stomp, or clap bubbles while saying "Pop!" 2- Then, clap to show excitement after popping bubbles and say "Yayyy (yahoo)." Level-3: The child will mimic facial and mouth movements without speaking while interacting with bubbles Keep it simple and use single words. Emphasize the importance of copying the movements. For example; 1-Blow a bubble and utter "Blow!" 2-Mimic eating a bubble, then say "Eat!" Level-4: Model play sounds for the child to imitate while playing with bubbles together For example 1-Model the sound /p-p-p/ without a vowel as you pop bubbles. 2-Enhance anticipation by audibly inhaling before blowing 5. Dear Editor, by adhering to these guidelines and instructions, parents and professionals alike can initiate therapy effectively, paving the way for success and reaching significant milestones.

ПСИХОЛОГІЧНІ ОСОБЛИВОСТІ КОМУНІКАТИВНОЇ КОМПЕТЕНТНОСТІ МАЙБУТНІХ ВЧИТЕЛІВ-ЛОГОПЕДІВ

The article analyzes the concept of "communicative competence." The components of communicative competence are examined, along with obstacles in interpersonal interactions, such as communicative barriers and individual psychological properties. The necessity of developing communicative competence in future speech therapists is emphasized. The study found that students majoring in "Special Education" exhibit average to low levels of communicative competence. Regarding the level of shyness, the obtained results shoved that 15% of respondents have a low level of shyness, 17.5% have an average level, 50% have a high level, and 17.5% have a very high level of shyness. Further, it was found that 3% of respondents do not experience any emotional barriers in interpersonal communication, 10% have some emotional difficulties in everyday communication, 55% experience emotions that somewhat complicate interactions with others, and 32% find that emotions hinder their ability to establish contacts The article also discusses the communicative challenges faced by future correctional teachers, which significantly impede their ability to communicate with children who have speech disorders. To address these issues, the article proposes incorporating more communicative disciplines into the training curriculum for correctional teachers, increasing students' theoretical understanding of communication issues with children with speech disorders, creating a methodological base, and preparing teachers to use interactive methods in lectures and seminars. Additionally, it suggests employing training methods to help students acquire practical skills in business and interpersonal communication.

Speech Assessments in Hypoplastic Cleft Maxilla Treated by Anterior Segmental Distraction Osteogenesis

Introduction: Cleft lip and palate (CLP) affect the craniofacial region, with significant implications for speech, hearing, feeding, and facial aesthetics. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of anterior maxillary segmental distraction osteogenesis (AMSDO) using an internal distractor on speech outcomes in CLP patients, assessed using the Pittsburgh Weighted Speech Scale (PWSS).Methodology: A single-center prospective study was conducted between March 2022 and April 2024. Twelve CLP patients with maxillary hypoplasia, aged 17.8 to 32.6 years, were included. Purposive sampling was done to include patients with complete unilateral or bilateral CLP who exhibited Class III skeletal relationships with reverse overjet greater than 7 mm. Speech assessments were conducted preoperatively (1-3 months before surgery) and postoperatively (5-7 months after distraction). Speech samples were recorded and evaluated by a licensed speech-language pathologist using the PWSS. Statistical analysis was performed using paired t-tests and Chi-square tests.Results: Significant improvements were observed in the total PWSS score (p = 0.03), nasality (p < 0.001), phonation (p < 0.001), and articulation errors (p = 0.004) postoperatively. No significant changes were seen in nasal emission and facial grimace. No correlation was found between the amount of distraction and speech outcomes. Unilateral cleft patients showed better outcomes than bilateral cleft patients, though not statistically significant.Conclusion: AMSDO significantly improves speech outcomes in CLP patients with maxillary hypoplasia. The PWSS is a reliable tool for assessing these changes. Further research with larger samples and longer follow-ups is warranted to confirm these findings.

First Steps Toward a Participatory Research Program: Early Intervention Perspectives on SLP Services for Children of Diverse Backgrounds.

This research was designed to deepen the understanding of contributing factors to disparities in speech-language pathology (SLP) service delivery to children of diverse backgrounds with language and communication delays, as well as to initiate community connections. We sought to understand the perspectives and experiences of those who provide or oversee SLP services to children with communication disorders in early intervention settings in Washington State. Individual semistructured interviews were completed with six SLPs and three administrators across five organizations. The interviews were designed to understand both individual- and systems-level contributing factors to service delivery challenges. Interviews were analyzed using an iterative coding process with multiple rounds of coding and multiple coders. In addition to synthesizing participants' understandings of, and preparation for, culturally responsive practice, three overarching themes are presented: (1) assets of early intervention as a service delivery model, (2) the distance between families and the practitioners and systems that serve them, and (3) compromised access and quality of services due to a predominantly monolingual-English system. Findings inform the next steps for building community partnerships with early intervention organizations. The long-term goal of this work is to collaboratively develop a participatory research program on equitable service delivery that addresses children's, families', and SLPs' needs.

Management of Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome Type II associated with Cleft Palate

Rationale: This case report presents the management of a patient with the rare occurrence of SmithLemli-Opitz Syndrome (SLOS) and complete cleft palate Patient Concerns: The patient's cleft palate repair was not done in infancy, and she reported to the dental institution complaining of difficulty with proper food intake and speech. A clinical examination revealed muscle deformity, limited neck mobility, scoliosis, malocclusion, and inadequate oral health. The patient exhibited facial and limb anomalies characteristic of SLOS, in tandem with substantial challenges in speech and nutrition due to the cleft palate. Diagnosis: The patient was referred to the dental wing to manage the cleft palate defect. On dental examination a complete cleft of the hard and soft palate, which had not been surgically corrected during infancy, was confirmed through clinical and radiological investigation. Additional musculoskeletal complications, including scoliosis and muscle deformity, were also identified. Interventions: The treatment plan addressed both SLOS and cleft palate. A prosthodontic appliance was prepared to assist with palatal function and speech therapy. Comprehensive care for SLOS included genetic counselling, nutrition management, and targeted physical therapy. The patient was also referred to an orthodontist, oral surgeon and a speech-language therapist further intervention. Conclusion: This case emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and intervention in congenital disorders. It advocates for proactive, multidisciplinary care from infancy to enhance the quality of life for individuals with complex syndromes, underscoring the need for ongoing support and resources

Utilization of early therapeutic supports by autistic preschoolers in Australia: A cross-sectional study following implementation of the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

There are many types of support for young autistic children and their families, but service use in this population is not well understood. In this study, primary caregivers of autistic preschoolers were surveyed (n = 95) and a selection were then interviewed (n = 19) to understand how early, therapeutic supports were accessed by families in Australia following the establishment of a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). This article presents the quantitative data from surveys and interviews. Families usually accessed at least two types of support. The most accessed supports were occupational therapy, speech pathology and psychology, with 43% of the sample accessing some other form of support. Multiple linear regression indicated that children's higher level of support need, living in less remote or less socio-economically disadvantaged areas, and high household income were associated with higher numbers of supports accessed. Services tended to follow an individual, clinic-based model and little use of alternative service delivery was reported. The findings indicate that Australian families are accessing a wider range of support types than before the NDIS and children with more substantial autism-related support needs are likely to access a greater number of types of supports. Socio-economic inequities continue to exist and should be addressed.

Effect of an oral stimulation protocol on breastfeeding among preterm infants: a randomised controlled trial

ObjectivesThe objectives are to assess the effectiveness of a modified and adapted oral sensorimotor intervention (MA-OSMI) protocol for infants in India on the rate and performance of breastfeeding among preterm...

Aphasia centre science: What makes an aphasia centre work?

ABSTRACT Background People with aphasia are often discharged from rehabilitation services with chronic communication disability, ongoing challenges in participation, and limited access to long-term support. Aphasia centres aim to fill this gap through the provision of dedicated aphasia programming within a social model of care. Preliminary research suggests that aphasia centres are effective in improving linguistic and psychosocial outcomes, however, the mechanisms by which this occurs are less clear. Aims (1) To describe the structure and operation of aphasia centres internationally; (2) To describe the factors perceived to contribute to aphasia centre effectiveness and sustainability. Methods and Procedures Explanatory, sequential mixed-methods design. A quantitative online survey was used to gather information about the structure and operations of existing aphasia centres. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Semi-structured email interviews explored participant perceptions of factors contributing to centre outcomes and sustainability. Interview data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Outcomes and Results Fourteen aphasia centres were included in the sample, and all reported offering therapy that was predominantly activity and participation focused and group based. In terms of staffing profile, allied health professionals, specifically speech pathologists, were employed in the greatest numbers. An “effective” centre was conceptualised as one that meets the complex needs of consumers. Committed staff, a sense of community, person-centred service provision and consumer involvement were perceived to be key factors influencing effectiveness. Diversification of funding was perceived to be critical to sustainability. Conclusions Involving consumers in centre operations, facilitating social connectedness and community networks and diversifying funding sources was perceived to contribute to service effectiveness and sustainability. Financial constraints and sufficient staffing remained globally recognised barriers to continued operation.

Can acoustic measurements predict gender perception in the voice?

To determine if there is an association between vocal gender presentation and the gender and context of the listener. Quantitative and transversal study. 47 speakers of Brazilian Portuguese of different genders were recorded. Recordings included sustained vowel emission, connected speech, and the expressive recital of a poem. Subsequently, four scripts were used in Praat to extract 16 acoustic measurements related to prosody. Voices underwent Auditory-Perceptual Assessment (APA) of the gender presentation by 236 people [65 speech and language pathologist (SLP) with experience in the area of the voice (SLP), 101 cisgender people (CG), and 70 transgender and non-binary people (TNB)]. Gender presentation was evaluated by visual analogue scale. Agreement analyses were executed among quantitative variables and multiple linear regression models were generated to predict APA, taking the judge context/gender and speaker gender into consideration. Acoustic analysis revealed that cis and transgender women had higher median fundamental frequency (fo) values than other genders. Cisgender women exhibited greater breathiness, while cisgender men showed more vocal quality deviations. In terms of APA, significant differences were observed among judge groups: SLP judged vowel samples differently from other groups, and TNB judged speech samples differently (both p<0.001). The predictive measures for the APA varied based on the sample type, speaker gender, and judge group. For vowel samples, only SLP judges had predictive measures (fo and ABI Jitter) for cisgender speakers. In number counting samples, predictive measures for cisgender speakers included fomed and HNR for CG judges, and fomed for both SLP and TNB judges. For transgender and non-binary speakers, predictive measures were fomed for CG and SLP judges, and fomed, CPPs, and ABI for TNB judges. In the poem recital task, predictive measures for cisgender speakers were fomed and HNR for both SLP and CG judges, with additional measures of cvint and sr for CG judges, and fomed, HNR, cvint, and fopeakwidth for TNB judges. For transgender and non-binary speakers, the predictive measures included a wider range of acoustic features such as fomed, fosd, sr, fomin, emph, HNR, Shimmer, and fo peakwidth for SLP judges, and fomed, fosd, sr, fomax, emph, HNR, and Shimmer for CG judges, while TNB judges considered fomed, sr, emph, fosd, Shimmer, HNR, Jitter, and fomax. There is an association between the perception of gender presentation in the voice and the gender or context of the listener and the speaker. Transgender and non-binary judges diverged to a higher degree from cisgender and SLP judges. Compared to the evaluation of cisgender speakers, all judge groups used a greater number of acoustic measurements when analyzing the speech of transgender and non-binary individuals in the poem recital samples.

Collaborative Music Therapy and Speech-Language Pathology for Pediatric Acquired Communication Impairments: A Phenomenological International Perspective

Collaborative Music Therapy and Speech-Language Pathology for Pediatric Acquired Communication Impairments: A Phenomenological International Perspective

Language and Theory of Mind: A Synthesis of Empirical Research on Cognitive and Linguistic Interdependencies

This literature review examines the intricate relationship between Theory of Mind (ToM) and language development, analysing whether ToM serves as a foundational cognitive precursor for language or if both capacities develop interactively. The LR examines multiple approaches, including the lens of bilingualism, autism and deafness. Multiple studies with various methods including experiments, longitudinal studies and neuroimaging studies will be investigated to reach a holistic understanding of the relationship between ToM and language. The review synthesises evidence suggesting that early ToM abilities, such as joint attention and mental state attribution, provide a critical base for effective language use, while language acquisition further refines ToM functions. Neurological findings indicate overlapping brain regions involved in both ToM and language processes, suggesting shared cognitive mechanisms rather than distinct faculties. Additionally, the influence of social and cultural contexts on the development of these abilities is explored, underscoring the importance of interaction in shaping both. The review also highlights gaps in research, particularly in understanding the specific cognitive functions underlying this relationship, and calls for focused investigation into individual components of ToM and language. Implications for therapeutic interventions, especially in speech-language pathology and special education, are also discussed.

Influence of Voice Focus on Auditory Feedback Control of Speech Using Long-Term Average Spectrum, Phon Spectrum, and Accelerometry.

This study investigates the effect of voice-focus adjustments on oronasal balance and auditory feedback control of speech via analyzing spectral distribution, perceived loudness, and nasal vibrations during sustained phonation and passage reading. Twenty-five speech-language pathologists sustained /a/ and read passages with forward, backward, and natural voice focuses in quiet and noisy conditions. The low-frequency power (LFP) below 3 Hz of vocal fundamental frequency was analyzed to access audio-vocal feedback control. Long-term average spectra of speech were converted to phon spectra based on equal-loudness contours ISO 226:2003 to estimate perceived loudness of self-voice across different conditions. Nasal vibrations were also recorded using a digital accelerometer to measure oronasal coupling. Forward-focused voice enhanced the nasal acceleration and reduced LFP, suggesting that increasing the degree of oronasal coupling can improve audio-vocal feedback control compared to natural and backward-focused voices. Voice-focus adjustments were most related to average power and phon values in the 0.2- to 0.3-kHz band. In noise, perceived loudness in the 0.5- to 2.3-kHz band effectively predicted LFP, outperforming the average spectral power of the same band. Voice-focus adjustments significantly impact both the acoustic transfer function of the vocal tract and the spontaneous fine-tuning of audio-vocal integration. This influence becomes particularly pronounced when sound intensity or perceived loudness is changed within the frequency range of 0.2-2.3 kHz, depending on the voice focus selected by the speakers. https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.27183483.

IMPACT OF FOREIGN LANGUAGE ANIMATED CARTOONS ON PRESCHOOL CHILDREN: BENEFITS, CHALLENGES AND THE ROLE OF SPEECH THERAPISTS IN SERBIA AND BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

This paper examines the impact of foreign language animated cartoons on preschool children in Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, highlighting both benefits and challenges. While cartoons can enhance vocabulary, pronunciation, comprehension, cultural awareness and second language acquisition, some speech therapists in these countries express concerns. They argue that early exposure to foreign languages via screens may cause confusion, language mixing, and excessive screen time. Some of this scepticism contradicts current scientific findings. Interviews with speech therapists show how expert opinions shared through popular media can shape caregivers’ practices, often leading to misconceptions. As most caregivers rely on media for information rather than scientific literature, this emphasises the need for researchers to communicate their findings effectively to the public. The study reviews literature and empirical evidence, highlighting the gap between media narratives and scientific research and offers practical recommendations for educators, therapists, caregivers, and policymakers.

Abstract 4143262: Unlocking Value: Revealing the Hidden Cost of Outpatient Interstage Care

Background: Interstage programs decrease morbidity and mortality and are potentially resource intensive. The accurate cost of these programs is unknown. Understanding cost and outcomes of care is necessary to provide high-value care for this population. Time-driven activity-based costing(TDABC) provides an accurate way to understanding costs that occur at the level of the patient. Research Question: What is the outpatient cost of the interstage period to the health care system? Methods: Single-center study of outpatient interstage care. Direct observation (over 9 months) and retrospective review were utilized to develop process maps. Outpatient interstage and pediatric visits were timed by 5 observers. Cost of personnel was calculated in dollars per minute utilizing median national health system salary data. Results: Patients attended a median of 13 cardiology, 5 pediatric, 3 physical therapy(PT), 4 occupational therapy(OT), and 7 speech therapy(SLP) visits while interstage. Total cost of interstage visit personnel was $258.18[$208.59-$389.24] and equipment cost was $1457.79. Total cost of a pediatric visit was $123.55[$130.80-$167.12]. Total cost of outpatient PT, OT, and SLP was $70.58, $66.68 and $72.43, respectively. Total cost of the outpatient interstage period was $6417.38[$5808.94-$8338.96] per patient.(Table) In interstage clinic, patients spent 132[89-165] minutes with providers and 64[41-66] minutes waiting.(Figure) In pediatric clinic, patients spent 73[71-76] minutes with providers and 9[6-13] minutes waiting. Conclusion: This work demonstrates that while challenging, TDABC analysis can be applied to complex interstage care to understand costs and move to deliver high-value care for this population. While caring for a child during the interstage period is time and resource intensive, it carries a relatively low cost to the health care system with a total cost of $6417.38 per patient. Additional work is needed to understand costs of inpatient interstage care.

Improving Outcomes for Patients With Tracheostomy Through Implementation of AARC Clinical Practice Guidelines.

The COVID-19 global pandemic dramatically increased our institution's tracheostomy census. Comparing our existing protocols with American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) January 2021 clinical practice guideline (CPG) relevant to caring for adult patients with tracheostomy in the acute care setting revealed numerous opportunities for improving our care of those patients. We assembled an interdisciplinary tracheostomy team to implement AARC CPG recommendations and manage all patients with tracheostomy in our hospital. We examined the effect our interdisciplinary team approach and implementation of AARC CPG recommendations had on the following metrics: average patient length of stay (LOS); ICU LOS; percentage of ventilator days; percentage of tracheostomy mask days; tracheostomy tube changes; decannulations; average time to decannulation; mortality; 30-d readmissions; and consultations for speech-language pathology (SLP), one-way speaking valves, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. A total of 203 subjects with tracheostomy were followed in a quality improvement study from June 2019-June 2023 (94 in the pre-intervention group, 109 in the post group). There were significant increases between before and after intervention groups in percentage of decannulations in acutely patients with tracheostomy/not present on admission, non-COVID subjects who survived hospitalization (11.8% vs 33.3%, P = .043), percentage of SLP consults (53.2% vs 89.0%, P < .001), and percentage of one-way speaking valve consults (17.0% vs 32.1%, P = .02). Establishment of an interdisciplinary tracheostomy team and implementation of AARC CPG recommendations for care of adult patients with tracheostomy in the acute care setting resulted in positive, statistically significant outcomes.

Screening accuracy and developmental language disorder remain stable between 2.5 and 3 years.

This study re-evaluated the classification accuracy of language screening. This is because the new Swedish child health programme moved this screening from 3 to 2.5 years of age. Another aim was to investigate the stability of diagnoses between these two time points. Children were recruited consecutively during 2016-2017 from three Child Health Services in Gävle, Sweden. Forty-eight monolingual children (31 boys) and 93 bilingual children (38 boys) underwent language screening and a clinical examination by a speech and language pathologist at 2.5 years of age. They were re-examined after 6 months (at 36-38 months) for clinical diagnosis. Of the 48 monolingual children, 45 retained their status at both 2.5 and 3 years of age, while three no longer met the criteria for development language disorder. Among the 93 bilingual children, 87 retained their 2.5-year status at age 3, two no longer met the criteria, and four new cases were diagnosed. These differences were not statistically significant. All changes in screening parameters between 2.5 and 3 years were within the 95% Confidence Interval, indicating stable classification. Screening accuracy and language status were robust between 2.5 and 3 years, providing no support for a wait-and-see approach.

Diagnostic Features of Childhood Apraxia of Speech: A Survey Study of Estonian, Finnish, and Lithuanian Speech-Language Pathologists.

The primary aim of this study was to investigate how speech-language pathologists (SLPs) from Estonia, Finland, and Lithuania rate the significance of different features for diagnosing childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) in their languages. An online survey was conducted among 197 Estonian, Finnish, and Lithuanian SLPs who have worked with children with CAS. The SLPs were asked to rate the significance of 63 features for CAS diagnosis in their respective language. Cross-linguistic patterns in diagnostic features were examined with simple correspondence analysis (SCA) and via descriptive statistics. The ratings revealed six to seven diagnostic features that were considered very significant for CAS diagnosis by the majority of respondents in each country. The SCA highlighted differences between Lithuanian SLPs and Estonian and Finnish SLPs. Some possible language-specific associations were noted, such as palatalization errors for Lithuanian and Estonian and diphthong distortions for Estonian. The respondents from all countries rated highly those features that can easily be applied to most languages (e.g., groping) and gave lower ratings to features that may be influenced by the linguistic structure of different languages (e.g., word stress errors). Overall, SLPs provided high ratings to CAS features that occur universally across languages, whereas features specific to languages, such as prosody-related errors, were not as highly rated. Several language-specific features were highlighted, providing direction for future research and emphasizing the importance of language-specific considerations in CAS research and diagnosis.

INNV-28. CONNECTOMICS-GUIDED GLIOMA RESECTION: HOW CHANGES IN STRUCTURAL CONNECTIVITY CORRELATE WITH LANGUAGE FUNCTION

Abstract Postoperative aphasia is a risk inherent to resections of brain masses in language eloquent areas. Neurosurgical strategies to minimize damage of functional language structures include awake craniotomies combined with stimulation mapping and intra-operative speech and language pathology (SLP) testing. Until now, consideration of white matter tracts involved in language processing as measured by diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) has been minimally incorporated into resection planning. In addition, there is limited understanding as to the association between specific tracts and aphasia risk. Quicktome™ by Omniscient Neurotechnology is clinically-oriented connectomics software that uses DTI sequences from MRIs to model connectivity between geographically distinct brain regions. This model can then be integrated with intraoperative navigation to avoid language connections during resection. Here, we investigate how language tract changes affect clinical aphasia. Patients with language-eloquent gliomas with available pre- and post-operative DTI and SLP evaluations were included in this retrospective study. Structural networks were quantified using Quicktome™ and compared using Spearman correlation. Changes in language function were evaluated using the Boston Naming Test and the Western Aphasia Battery. Patients with postoperative auditory verbal deficits showed a moderate correlation in connectivity changes (ρ=0.42), whereas patients with postoperative naming deficits showed a weak correlation (ρ=0.19). The inferior frontal junction, anterior portion (IFJa), and the superior temporal sulcus, ventral posterior portion (STSvp), in the right hemisphere demonstrated the most associated structural connectivity changes. To our knowledge, this is the first study which uses Quicktome™ to directly associate postoperative connectivity with aphasia outcomes. Understanding the interplay between structural connectivity and neurological symptoms can elucidate neural pathways underlying cortical function with the potential to reduce neurosurgical postoperative morbidity.

Personal and Clinical Predictors of Voice Therapy Outcomes: A Machine Learning Analysis Using the Voice Handicap Index

In this study, we examine the predictive factors influencing the outcomes of voice treatment in patients with voice-related disorders, using the voice handicap index (VHI) as a key assessment tool. By analyzing various personal habits and clinical variables, we identify the primary factors associated with changes when comparing VHI scores before and after voice treatment. For this research, we employed binomial logistic regression, random forest (RF), and a multilayer perceptron (MLP) model to evaluate the effectiveness of voice treatment. The findings reveal that gender (with female patients showing greater improvements in VHI scores compared to male patients), surgical history, voice use status, and voice training status are significant predictors of therapy outcomes. The MLP model demonstrated high accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity, with an area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.87 indicating its potential as a valuable clinical predictive tool; however, the model’s relatively low specificity suggests the need for further refinement to enhance its predictive accuracy. The results of this study provide valuable insights for clinicians and speech–language pathologists in developing personalized treatment strategies to optimize the effectiveness of voice therapy. Future research should prioritize the validation of these findings in larger and more diverse population samples. Furthermore, it is essential to explore additional predictive variables in order to enhance the model’s accuracy across different types of voice disorders.