Using MRI neuroanatomical data from 37 children who underwent cochlear implantation (CI) between 8-38 months of age, and 40 similarly matched children with normal hearing as well as speech recognition data obtained 6 months after CI, researchers identified brain regions affected by auditory deprivation and developed a machine learning algorithm that predicted the speech development of the CI participants following CI surgery, findings with potential implications for individuals with auditory deprivation.
Article #17-17603: "Neural preservation underlies speech improvement from auditory deprivation in young cochlear implant recipients," by Gangyi Feng et al.
MEDIA CONTACT: Nancy Young, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago; tel: 773-251-5795; e-mail: < NYoung@luriechildrens.org >
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Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences