title: Temporal processing and speech recognition in cochlear implant users.
abstract: Although the speech recognition performance of cochlear implant patients has steadily improved in recent years, considerable variability remains in implant patient outcomes. Here, we report on a correlation between cochlear implant patients' auditory temporal processing and speech recognition abilities. Modulation detection thresholds were measured as a function of stimulation level; phoneme recognition was also assessed. Results showed marked individual differences in the shape and absolute sensitivity of subjects' modulation threshold functions. Statistical analysis revealed a strong correlation between phoneme recognition scores and subjects' mean modulation thresholds, demonstrating the contribution of temporal processing to implant speech perception. In correlating a basic psychophysical measure to speech performance, these results should contribute toward improved speech processor design and rehabilitation tools for cochlear implant patients.
mesh_terms: D000161:Acoustic Stimulation; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001309:Auditory Threshold / Q000502:physiology*; D003051:Cochlea / Q000503:physiopathology*; D003054:Cochlear Implants / Q000523:psychology*; D003638:Deafness / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D014644:Genetic Variation; D006801:Humans; D007807:Language Tests; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013067:Speech Perception / Q000502:physiology*; D013998:Time Perception / Q000502:physiology*; D017211:Treatment Failure