Validation of a Python-Based Graphical User Interface for Calculation of Relative Fundamental Frequency.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to validate PyRFF, a semi-automated software for calculating relative fundamental frequency (RFF). PyRFF was developed in Python, a widely used open source programming language, making it freely accessible and broadly applicable for researchers and clinicians. By providing an accessible tool for RFF extraction, PyRFF has the potential to facilitate wider adoption of RFF measures in both research and clinical settings.

Study design: Validation study.

Methods: To assess the accuracy of PyRFF, RFF measures were extracted using both PyRFF and a previously validated, semi-automated algorithm implemented in MATLAB. The outputs from the two programs were then compared using statistical measures of error, including root mean square error (RMSE) and mean bias error (MBE).

Results: The results demonstrated near-identical outputs between PyRFF and the MATLAB-based algorithm. RMSE and MBE values were close to zero for all comparisons, indicating minimal discrepancy between the two methods.

Conclusions: PyRFF offers a valid, freely available software platform for extracting RFF measures, ensuring accessibility for a broad user base of researchers, clinicians, and students. The availability of free, user-friendly software is essential for advancing research and clinical application of RFF in voice assessment. By providing an alternative to MATLAB-based methods, PyRFF lowers financial and technical barriers, promoting further exploration of RFF as a potential tool in voice disorder assessment and treatment.