Add BrightSurf on Google Email

The surprising grammar of touch

A new study reveals that DeafBlind signers use tactile grammatical structures to convey meaning, suggesting alternative pathways for language development. Researchers analyzed the conventionalization of protactile phonology in US DeafBlind communities, finding consistent patterns in hand articulation and grammar assignment.

SourceLinguistic Society of America·JournalLanguage·DateNov 30, 2020

Hearing test may detect autism in newborns

Researchers analyzed ABR tests of nearly 140,000 newborns in Florida and found slower brain responses to sounds in those later diagnosed with autism. The study presents a promising direction in using ABR testing as a method for precise autism detection at birth.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalAutism Research·DateNov 12, 2020

Keeping the beat - it's all in your brain

A study by McGill University researchers has identified neural markers related to beat synchronization in musicians' brains, revealing that it takes more than just moving or listening well to keep the beat. The findings suggest that practice can improve one's ability to synchronize and that around 2-3% of the population are 'beat deaf',

SourceMcGill University·JournalJournal of Cognitive Neuroscience·DateSep 1, 2020

Opioid use can trigger deafness

Researchers found a strong association between high-dose opioid use and degrees of hearing loss, with 21% experiencing permanent loss. The study suggests that health care providers should be aware of this potential link when evaluating patients with hearing issues.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Medical Toxicology·DateAug 17, 2020

A promise to restore hearing

Harvard University researchers successfully used base editing to correct a recessive genetic mutation causing complete deafness in mice. The treatment restored partially functional hearing, and the scientists hope to apply this technique to humans with similar conditions.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJun 3, 2020

New research suggests in-womb gene correction

Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University developed a synthetic molecule that targets and corrects a mutated gene causing Usher syndrome in mice. The technique may be used to deliver drug therapy through amniotic fluid to the fetus, potentially treating and preventing several types of congenital hearing and balance disorders.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateApr 5, 2020

Oregon researchers test hearing by looking at dilation of people's eyes

Researchers at the University of Oregon have developed a new method to assess hearing by measuring pupil dilation, which is as sensitive as traditional testing methods. The approach has shown promising results in detecting sound in individuals who cannot respond, such as babies and young adults with developmental disabilities.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalJournal of the Association for Research in Otolaryngology·DateJan 8, 2020

Poor sight causes people to overstep the mark

Researchers at Anglia Ruskin University found that people with impaired vision lifted their lead foot higher but less quickly over obstacles, increasing their risk of falls. This pronounced gait also led to increased anxiety and decreased stability, highlighting the need for better vision correction and care.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 17, 2019

Good noise, bad noise: White noise improves hearing

Researchers from the University of Basel found that adding white noise to a quiet environment improves the brain's ability to distinguish subtle tone differences. This is achieved through reduced neuronal activity in the auditory cortex, allowing for more precise sound perception and potentially improving cochlear implant results.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 12, 2019