timing patterns in language?

[Richard J Senghas]

Hey folks,

I recall coming across an article or paper that analyzed timing 
patterns in speech, but cannot locate it now, despite my best 
efforts.  The article analyzed extremely small differences in timing 
patterns with speech, down to microsecond levels, if I recall 
correctly, and concluded that native English-speaking descendents of 
Italian-speaking immigrants were unconsciously carrying timing 
patterns that had been handed down the generations, despite the 
change in native language.  These patterns account, in part, for the 
particular ethnic association people will attribute to certain ways 
of speaking.

Does this sound familiar to anyone?  If so, I'd love references, or 
even pointers to likely sources.

Thanks,

-Richard
-- 
======================================================================
Richard J. Senghas, Assoc. Professor     | Sonoma State University
Anthropology/Linguistics                 | 1801 East Cotati Avenue
Coordinator, Linguistics Program         | Rohnert Park, CA 94928-3609
Richard.Senghas at sonoma.edu               | 707-664-3920 (fax)