We are currently looking for the following research participants:

1. Persons diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

2. Healthy persons between the ages of 45 and 75 years old

Description

We are conducting a research study comparing the speech movements of persons with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). We are especially focusing on lower lip and jaw movements. While speaking seems simple, it requires the control over more than 70 muscles. Therefore, it can become challenging when muscles involved in speech become weaker.

We want to better understand the difficulties persons with ALS have while talking. We also want to know how persons with ALS may be able to compensate for these difficulties and maintain their speech intelligibility as long as possible. Therefore, the major focus of this study is to gain a deeper understanding how the lip and jaw movements are affected by ALS.

Procedure

Reflective markers will be placed on your face and forehead using small amounts of hypoallergenic tape. These reflectors can be tracked by special cameras and record movements of the jaw and lips. The experimental session will be recorded on audiotape and videotape.
During the experimental session, you will be asked to pronounce some syllables and words, repeat sentences and read a short passage. You will also be asked to silently move your lower lip and your jaw at a slow and fast metronome pace. During this silent oscillation task you will try to touch a target with your lower lip or your jaw each time. When you touch the target with the lower lip, we will ask you to hold a bite guard in your mouth, which will prevent the jaw from moving together with the lower lip. The experimental session will last approximately one hour. You will receive $10 for participating.

If you are interested in finding out more about the ALS Project, please send us an email with your name and telephone number. We will then contact you.
email to cdidion@unl.edu

Cynthia Didion
Laboratory Coordinator
Speech Production Laboratory
Lincoln, NE 68583-0738
Office: (402) 472-0239