Toward Dynamic Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Vocal Tract During Speech Production

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2011

Authors

Sandra M. Rua Ventura (Author) Other; Diamantino Freitas (Author) FEUP; João Manuel R. S. Tavares (Author) FEUP

Journal

Title: Journal of Voice

Vol. 25 No. 4

Pages: 511-518

ISSN: 0892-1997

Publisher: Elsevier

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 17 Citations

Scopus - 21 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-002-Q25

DOI: 10.1016/j.jvoice.2010.01.014

Abstract (EN): Objectives/Hypothesis. The most recent and significant magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) improvements allow for the visualization of the vocal tract during speech production, which has been revealed to be a powerful tool in dynamic speech research. However, a synchronization technique with enhanced temporal resolution is still required. Study Design and Methods. The study design was transversal in nature. Throughout this work, a technique for the dynamic study of the vocal tract with MRI by using the heart's signal to synchronize and trigger the imaging-acquisition process is presented and described. The technique in question is then used in the measurement of four speech articulatory parameters to assess three different syllables (articulatory gestures) of European Portuguese Language. Results. The acquired MR images are automatically reconstructed so as to result in a variable sequence of images (slices) of different vocal tract shapes in articulatory positions associated with Portuguese speech sounds. Conclusions. The knowledge obtained as a result of the proposed technique represents a direct contribution to the improvement of speech synthesis algorithms, thereby allowing for novel perceptions in coarticulation studies, in addition to providing further efficient clinical guidelines in the pursuit of more proficient speech rehabilitation processes.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 8