The Effects of Electromagnetic Articulography Sensors on Speech in Individuals with and without Dysarthria

• DOI: 10.31219/osf.io/umy9b_v1
• Publication Date: 2025-04-11T16:12:24Z
• Authors: Austin Thompson; Micah E. Hirsch; Yunjung Kim
• Keywords: Dysarthria

Purpose: This study examined how wearing electromagnetic articulography (EMA) sensors affects acoustic and perceptual speech outcomes in people with Parkinson’s disease (PwPD) dysarthria neurologically healthy control speakers. Additionally, the explored potential after-effects on measures following approximately 45 minutes of EMA both groups. Finally, we investigated whether or after-sensor effects differentially impacted two groups.Methods: Thirty-four speakers (21 Controls 13 PwPD) read Caterpillar Passage at three time points: (1) Before Sensors, (2) With (3) After Sensors. We analyzed changes (articulation rate, articulatory vowel space [AAVS], first second spectral moment coefficients for fricatives) (speech intelligibility, naturalness) across key contrasts: sensor (With Sensors - Sensors) (After Sensors).Results: Bayesian linear mixed-effects models showed effects, reducing intelligibility naturalness altering fricative moments Control exhibited a faster articulation rate sensors. Notably, PwPD were more negatively by terms ratings. After-sensor also observed: spoke removal, while demonstrated increased AAVS perceived as natural. However, there was no compelling evidence that differed between groups.Conclusion: primarily impact sibilant production perceptions experience greater sensor-related reductions which should be carefully considered when using data collected to assess clinical populations. distinctiveness suggesting short-term carryover compensatory adaptation strategies.