Visibility graph analysis of speech evoked auditory brainstem response in persistent developmental stuttering

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Nonlinear Science
• Complexity Science

Background:

• Speech-evoked auditory brainstem response (s-ABR) time series exhibit complex dynamics.
• Persistent developmental stuttering (PDS) may involve altered brainstem auditory processing.
• Understanding brainstem dynamics is crucial for diagnosing and treating speech disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore fractality and nonlinear dynamics in s-ABR time series.
• To develop a quantitative method for differentiating individuals with PDS from controls.
• To assess brainstem level abnormalities in PDS using complexity measures.

Main Methods:

• Application of nonlinear science and chaos theory concepts.
• Utilizing visibility graphs to analyze s-ABR time series complexity.
• Quantifying complexity differences with Graph Index Complexity (GIC).

Main Results:

• s-ABR series exhibit visibility graphs with power-law topology.
• Fractality in s-ABR series is linked to long-term memory in auditory brainstem dynamics.
• GIC successfully quantifies differential complexity between PDS and normal subjects.

Conclusions:

• GIC shows promise for assessing brainstem abnormalities in PDS.
• Fractal analysis of s-ABR provides insights into auditory system dynamics.
• This approach offers a novel method for studying stuttering.