Cochlear-Implant-Performance-Prediction

Cochlear-Implant-Performance-Prediction

Despite improved technology, many cochlear implant (CI) recipients still struggle to understand speech in noise (SIN). Because the bottom-up acoustic signal generated by the implant is distorted relative to normal-hearing acoustic input, CI users rely more on top-down processing to decipher masked speech. To better predict outcomes for CI recipients, top-down auditory processing ability should be assessed. However, hearing impairment makes testing top-down auditory processing ability through auditory means difficult. The study aims to determine whether testing visual top-down processing can predict auditory top-down processing capability.

Participants will complete a proctored, 25-minute computer-based test battery of visual cognitive tests (Stroop Test, Trail-Making Tests), visual distorted-signal tests (Scrambled Letters, VisualSNR), and auditory threshold tests (QuickSIN, Hearing Test). To prevent the accumulation of mental fatigue, tests will be administered in a predetermined order designed to minimize it. Including time for explanations for each test and questions from the participant about the testing protocol, the total time the participant will spend on the study is approximately 45 minutes.

Inclusion Criteria:

• All participants who do not fit the exclusion criteria.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Individuals who are not yet adults (infants, children, teenage children),
• Adults unable to consent,
• Adults with known impaired decision-making capacity,
• Pregnant women,
• Prisoners (or other detained/paroled individuals),
• Students or postdoctoral trainees who are taught by or academically mentored by the Principal Investigator, in compliance with the Enrollment of Students and Trainees in Research Studies policies.
• Non-fluent English speakers, Tests (specifically Scrambled Letters and QuickSIN) require proficiency in the English language.
• Individuals with severe hearing impairment, Tests (specifically QuickSIN) require participants to not have trouble hearing speech.
• Individuals with significant, uncorrected visual impairment. All visual tests require the participant to be able to read medium-sized text on a screen approximately two feet in front of them.