Toward dynamic magnetic resonance imaging of the vocal tract during speech production.
OBJECTIVE
The most recent and significant magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) improvements allow for the visualization of the vocal tract during speech production, which has been revealed to be a powerful tool in dynamic speech research. However, a synchronization technique with enhanced temporal resolution is still required.


METHODS
The study design was transversal in nature. Throughout this work, a technique for the dynamic study of the vocal tract with MRI by using the heart's signal to synchronize and trigger the imaging-acquisition process is presented and described. The technique in question is then used in the measurement of four speech articulatory parameters to assess three different syllables (articulatory gestures) of European Portuguese Language.


RESULTS
The acquired MR images are automatically reconstructed so as to result in a variable sequence of images (slices) of different vocal tract shapes in articulatory positions associated with Portuguese speech sounds.


CONCLUSIONS
The knowledge obtained as a result of the proposed technique represents a direct contribution to the improvement of speech synthesis algorithms, thereby allowing for novel perceptions in coarticulation studies, in addition to providing further efficient clinical guidelines in the pursuit of more proficient speech rehabilitation processes.
Ventura
Sandra M Rua
SM
Radiology Department, School of Allied Health Science-IPP, Porto, Portugal.
Freitas
Diamantino Rui S
DR
Tavares
João Manuel R S
JM
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D019028:Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Cine; D008297:Male; D009055:Mouth / Q000502:physiology*; D013060:Speech / Q000502:physiology*; D014827:Vocal Cords / Q000502:physiology*