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Gender and modulation frequency effects on auditory steady state response (ASSR) thresholds
Mohd Normani Zakaria1, Bahram Jalaei2, Nor Alaudin Abdul Wahab3
1Audiology Program, School of Health Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia. mdnorman@usm.my.
Summary
Auditory steady state response (ASSR) thresholds differ by modulation frequency (MF) and gender. Results suggest using gender-specific data for low MF ASSR, especially at 500 Hz, due to potential hormonal influences.
Area of Science:
- Audiology
- Neuroscience
- Hearing Science
Background:
- Auditory steady state response (ASSR) is a reliable measure for hearing thresholds.
- Limited data exists on how modulation frequencies (MFs) affect ASSR thresholds across genders.
- Estrogen levels may influence 40-Hz ASSR in females.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of gender and MF on ASSR thresholds in young adults.
- To compare ASSR thresholds at different carrier frequencies (CFs) and MFs between males and females.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-eight normally hearing adults (14 males, 14 females) participated.
- ASSR thresholds were measured using narrow-band chirps at 500, 1000, 2000, and 4000 Hz CFs.
- Stimuli were presented at 40 Hz and 90 Hz MFs.
Main Results:
- No significant interaction between gender and MF was found across all CFs.
- Gender significantly affected thresholds only at 500 Hz CF.
- Lower ASSR thresholds were observed at 40 Hz MF for 500/1000 Hz CFs, and at 90 Hz MF for 2000/4000 Hz CFs.
Conclusions:
- ASSR thresholds are influenced by both MF and gender, particularly at lower carrier frequencies.
- Hormonal factors may contribute to observed gender differences in ASSR thresholds.
- Gender-specific normative data is recommended for low MF ASSR, especially at 500 Hz CF, for accurate assessment.
