Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 5, 2026

12:43
A Protocol for Comprehensive Assessment of Bulbar Dysfunction in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
Published on: February 21, 2011
The quantitative evaluation of hoarseness
Archives of Otolaryngology (Chicago, Ill. : 1960)
|January 1, 1983
Summary
The harmonics to noise (H/N) ratio quantifies hoarseness by measuring the relationship between harmonic structure and noise in voice spectrograms. This simple, computer-aided measure effectively assesses hoarseness and treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Laryngology
- Acoustic analysis
- Speech science
Background:
- Hoarseness involves increased noise replacing harmonic structure in voice.
- Quantifying this change is crucial for objective voice assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and validate the harmonics to noise (H/N) ratio as a measure of hoarseness.
- To demonstrate its utility in assessing treatment effectiveness.
Main Methods:
- Spectrographic analysis of sustained vowels.
- Calculation of the H/N ratio by averaging 50 consecutive pitch periods.
- Measuring harmonic energy (H) and noise energy (N).
Main Results:
- The H/N ratio increases with greater hoarseness.
- The H/N ratio was successfully used to evaluate treatment efficacy for hoarseness.
- The computation is straightforward and feasible with inexpensive computer technology.
Conclusions:
- The H/N ratio is a valuable tool for objectively assessing hoarseness.
- It can effectively monitor the impact of interventions on voice quality.
- While not diagnostic for laryngeal abnormalities, it aids in hoarseness assessment.
Related Concept Videos
Assessment of Ventilation I: Respiratory Rate
Assessment of Ventilation
A Ventilation assessment is critical for monitoring a patient's health status. Respiration, one of the most accessible vital signs, provides insights into the function of numerous body systems and can indicate serious health issues, such as brainstem injuries from head trauma.
Critical Guidelines for Assessing Ventilation:
A Ventilation assessment is critical for monitoring a patient's health status. Respiration, one of the most accessible vital signs, provides insights into the function of numerous body systems and can indicate serious health issues, such as brainstem injuries from head trauma.
Critical Guidelines for Assessing Ventilation:
Assessment of Airway, Skin Color, and Use of Accessory Muscles
A thorough assessment of respiratory health is paramount in clinical settings to identify and manage respiratory distress and ensure adequate oxygenation. This article elaborates on the critical aspects of respiratory evaluation, including airway assessment, skin color examination, and the observation of accessory muscle use, which are integral to effectively diagnosing and managing patients with respiratory conditions.
Introduction
The initial evaluation of a patient's respiratory system...
Introduction
The initial evaluation of a patient's respiratory system...
Quantitative Analysis
Quantitative analysis is a technique for measuring the amount of specific constituents in a sample. When the sample's composition is unknown, qualitative analysis is performed first to identify its components, which ensures that the correct substances are measured during the quantitative phase.
In quantitative analysis, two key measurements are made: the sample quantity and a property proportional to the amount of the analyte (the substance being analyzed). This forms the basis of the method...
In quantitative analysis, two key measurements are made: the sample quantity and a property proportional to the amount of the analyte (the substance being analyzed). This forms the basis of the method...
Larynx
The human larynx, often referred to as the voice box, is an intricate organ located in the neck. It serves as a pathway for air to enter the lungs during respiration and is an essential component of voice production.
Anatomy of the Larynx
The larynx consists of various components, including cartilage, muscles, and vocal cords. Its structure includes three large unpaired cartilages—the thyroid, cricoid, and epiglottis—and three smaller paired cartilages—the arytenoids, corniculates, and...
Anatomy of the Larynx
The larynx consists of various components, including cartilage, muscles, and vocal cords. Its structure includes three large unpaired cartilages—the thyroid, cricoid, and epiglottis—and three smaller paired cartilages—the arytenoids, corniculates, and...
Physical Assessment of the Respiratory Tract II: Palpation
Physical assessment of the respiratory tract is critical in identifying potential health issues. One key component of this assessment is palpation, a technique healthcare providers use to assess the body for abnormalities. This content explores the method of palpation in evaluating the respiratory tract, focusing on thoracic palpation and tactile fremitus.
Thoracic Palpation
Thoracic palpation detects tenderness, masses, lesions, respiratory excursions, and vocal fremitus. The nurse assesses...
Thoracic Palpation
Thoracic palpation detects tenderness, masses, lesions, respiratory excursions, and vocal fremitus. The nurse assesses...
Physical Assessment of the Respiratory Tract IV: Auscultation
Auscultation is a crucial component of the physical assessment of the respiratory tract. It offers valuable insights into airflow through the bronchial tree and potential lung obstructions. This process involves careful listening to breath, voice, and adventitious sounds, which can reveal a wealth of information about a patient's respiratory health.
Breath Sounds
Breath sounds are categorized into vesicular, bronchovesicular, and bronchial.
Breath Sounds
Breath sounds are categorized into vesicular, bronchovesicular, and bronchial.

