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Maximum length sequence auditory evoked brainstem responses in human newborns and adults
R E Lasky1, J Perlman, K Hecox
1Neurology Department, University of Wisconsin Medical School, Madison 53792.
Journal of the American Academy of Audiology
|November 1, 1992
Summary
Newborns show distinct auditory system development compared to adults, with differences in temporal processing and sensitivity at high stimulus rates. Maximum length sequences (MLS) revealed unique auditory evoked brainstem responses (ABRs) in infants.
Area of Science:
- Auditory Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Neurophysiology
Background:
- Auditory evoked brainstem responses (ABRs) are crucial for assessing auditory pathway function.
- Understanding developmental changes in auditory processing at high stimulus rates is essential for early detection of hearing impairments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate developmental differences in auditory processing at high stimulus rates using maximum length sequences (MLS).
- To compare the auditory system's response to temporal nonlinearities and varying stimulus intensities in newborns versus adults.
Main Methods:
- Utilized maximum length sequences (MLS) and cross-correlation techniques to record auditory evoked brainstem responses (ABRs).
- Measured auditory evoked brainstem responses (ABRs) at high stimulus rates (minimum interpulse interval = 1.1 msec) in newborns and adults.
- Analyzed higher-order kernels and wave V intensity functions to assess developmental differences.
Main Results:
- Reliable MLS ABRs were obtained in all tested newborns at the highest rates.
- Newborn auditory systems appeared less sensitive to temporal nonlinearities compared to adults, evidenced by kernel slice measurements.
- MLS wave V intensity functions were less steep, and thresholds were higher in newborns compared to conventional stimuli, though signal-to-noise ratio normalization is needed for definitive conclusions.
Conclusions:
- Maximum length sequences (MLS) provide reliable auditory evoked brainstem responses (ABRs) even at high rates in newborns.
- Developmental differences in auditory system temporal processing and intensity coding exist, with newborns showing distinct patterns compared to adults.
- Further research is needed to clarify developmental differences, particularly by equating signal-to-noise ratios across stimulus types and age groups.