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DocumentBoosting and decreasing action prediction abilities through excitatory and inhibitory tDCS of inferior frontal cortex2018

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2016
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2016 Grants
Start date: 2017-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2016-298
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
298 - Empowering feedback connections in temporo-occipital network to boost visual perception of emotions
Duration: 2017-09 - 2019-10
Researcher(s):
Sara Borgomaneri, Marco Zanon, Alessio Avenanti, Caterina Bertini
Institution(s): Center for studies and research in Cognitive Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Cesena (Italy)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final Report
Articles
Author: Borgomaneri, S.
Secondary author(s):
Zanon, M., Avenanti, A., Bertini, C.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Emotion perception / Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) / Cortical plasticity / Feedback connections / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2016-298.09
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Boosting and decreasing action prediction abilities through excitatory and inhibitory tDCS of inferior frontal cortex
Publication year: 2018
Abstract/Results:
ABSTRACT:
Influential theories suggest that humans predict others’ upcoming actions by using their own motor system as an internal forward model. However, evidence that the motor system is causally essential for predicting others’ actions is meager. Using transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), we tested the role of the inferior frontal cortex (IFC), in action prediction (AP). We devised a novel AP task where participants observed the initial phases of right-hand reaching-to-grasp actions and had to predict their outcome (i.e., the goal/object to be grasped). We found that suppression by cathodal (inhibitory) tDCS of the left IFC, but not the left superior temporal sulcus or the right IFC, selectively impaired performance on the AP task, but not on a difficulty-matched control task. Remarkably, anodal (excitatory) tDCS of the left IFC brought about a selective improvement in the AP task. These findings indicate that the left IFC is necessary for predicting the outcomes of observed human right-hand actions. Crucially, our study shows for the first time that down- and up-regulating excitability within the motor system can hinder and enhance AP abilities, respectively. These findings support predictive coding theories of action perception and have implications for enhancement of AP abilities.
Language: eng
Author:
Avenanti, A.
Secondary author(s):
Paracampo, R., Annella, L., Tidoni, E., Aglioti, S. M.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Percentiles:
90.71|2.17
Reference:
Avenanti, A., Paracampo, R., Annella, L., Tidoni, E., & Aglioti, S. M. (2018). Boosting and decreasing action prediction abilities through excitatory and inhibitory tDCS of inferior frontal cortex. Cerebral Cortex, 28(4), 1282-1296. https://doi.org/10.1093/cercor/bhx041
2-year Impact Factor: 5.437|2018
Times cited: 64|2026-02-11
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Action prediction / Inferior frontal cortex / Transcranial direct current stimulation / Action observation network / Neuroenhancement

Boosting and decreasing action prediction abilities through excitatory and inhibitory tDCS of inferior frontal cortex

Boosting and decreasing action prediction abilities through excitatory and inhibitory tDCS of inferior frontal cortex
DocumentPrimary motor cortex crucial for action prediction: A tDCS study2018

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2016
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2016 Grants
Start date: 2017-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2016-298
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
298 - Empowering feedback connections in temporo-occipital network to boost visual perception of emotions
Duration: 2017-09 - 2019-10
Researcher(s):
Sara Borgomaneri, Marco Zanon, Alessio Avenanti, Caterina Bertini
Institution(s): Center for studies and research in Cognitive Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Cesena (Italy)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final Report
Articles
Author: Borgomaneri, S.
Secondary author(s):
Zanon, M., Avenanti, A., Bertini, C.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Emotion perception / Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) / Cortical plasticity / Feedback connections / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2016-298.10
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Primary motor cortex crucial for action prediction: A tDCS study
Publication year: 2018
URL:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0010945218303186?via%3Dihub
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT
The neural network underlying action observation - i.e., the action observation network - forms an anticipatory representation of observed actions. Although correlational studies suggest that the motor cortex (M1) might be involved in this anticipatory coding, it is unclear whether M1 is also causally essential for making accurate predictions about observed actions. To test the functional relevance of M1 to action prediction, we used offline monopolar transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). In four tDCS groups of healthy participants, we administered 15 min of anodal or cathodal constant currents of 1 or 2 mA over the left M1 before participants performed two tasks requiring them to make predictions about the outcomes of reaching-grasping human actions (Action Prediction - AP) or non-human movements (Non-human Prediction - NP). In each group, participants received sham and active tDCS in two separate sessions. We found that 2 mA cathodal tDCS (c-tDCS2mA) selectively impaired accuracy in the AP task, but not in the NP task. No change in performance was found following anodal or 1-mA tDCS protocols. Additionally, no change was found following c-tDCS2mA administered over a control site. These findings show task-, polarity-, intensity- and site-specific disruption of AP abilities following c-tDCS2mA over M1. Thus, our study establishes specific tDCS parameters for effective M1 stimulation in AP and highlights the functional relevance of the motor system to making accurate predictions about the outcomes of human actions.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Copyright/Reproduction:
By permission
Language:
eng
Author:
Paracampo, R.
Secondary author(s):
Montemurro, M., de Vega, M., Avenanti, A.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Percentiles:
72.00|0.96
Reference:
Paracampo, R., Montemurro, M., de Vega, M., & Avenanti, A. (2018). Primary motor cortex crucial for action prediction: A tDCS study. Cortex, 109, 287-302. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cortex.2018.09.019
2-year Impact Factor: 4.275|2018
Times cited: 23|2026-02-11
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Action observation network / Action prediction / Non-invasive brain stimulation / Primary motor cortex / Transcranial direct current stimulation
DocumentEnhancing motor brain activity improves memory for action language: A tDCS study2021

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2018 Grants
Start date: 2019-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-347
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
347 - Driving synaptic plasticity in motor-to-visual neural pathways to enhance action prediction
Duration: 2019-10 - 2023-06
Researcher(s):
Alessio Avenanti, Marco Zanon
Institution(s): Department of Psychology, Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna (Italy)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Avenanti, A.
Secondary author(s):
Zanon, M.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Action observation / Prediction / Plasticity / Connectivity / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-347.08
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Enhancing motor brain activity improves memory for action language: A tDCS study
Publication year: 2021
URL:
https://academic.oup.com/cercor/advance-article-abstract/doi/10.1093/cercor/bhaa309/5951762
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
The embodied cognition approach to linguistic meaning posits that action language understanding is grounded in sensory–motor systems. However, evidence that the human motor cortex is necessary for action language memory is meager. To address this issue, in two groups of healthy individuals, we perturbed the left primary motor cortex (M1) by means of either anodal or cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), before participants had to memorize lists of manual action and attentional sentences. In each group, participants received sham and active tDCS in two separate sessions. Following anodal tDCS (a-tDCS), participants improved the recall of action sentences compared with sham tDCS. No similar effects were detected following cathodal tDCS (c-tDCS). Both a-tDCS and c-tDCS induced variable changes in motor excitability, as measured by motor-evoked potentials induced by transcranial magnetic stimulation. Remarkably, across groups, action-specific memory improvements were positively predicted by changes in motor excitability. We provide evidence that excitatory modulation of the motor cortex selectively improves performance in a task requiring comprehension and memory of action sentences. These findings indicate that M1 is necessary for accurate processing of linguistic meanings and thus provide causal evidence that high-order cognitive functions are grounded in the human motor system.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Copyright/Reproduction:
By permission
Language:
eng
Author:
Vitale, F.
Secondary author(s):
Padrón, I., Avenanti, A., de Vega, M.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Reference:
Vitale, F., Padrón, I., Avenanti, A., & de Vega, M. (2021). Enhancing motor brain activity improves memory for action language: A tDCS study. Cerebral Cortex, 31(3), 1569-1581. https://doi.org/10.1093/cercor/bhaa309
2-year Impact Factor: 4.861|2021
Times cited: 27|2025-09-20
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Action language / Embodied cognition / Memory / Motor cortex / Transcranial direct current stimulation
DocumentA novel closed-loop EEG-tDCS approach to promote responsiveness of patients in minimally conscious state: A study protocol2021

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: NDE
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 1/Outros Apoios
Title:
Characterization of “Near-Death Experiences” through the comparison of experiencers and non-experiencers’ particularities: inter-individual differences in cognitive characteristics and susceptibility to false memories
Duration: 2016-03 - 2019-03
Researcher(s):
Steven Laureys, Charlotte Martial, Héléna Cassol
Institution(s): Coma Science Group, University of Liège (Belgium)
Contents: Application
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Laureys, S.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Parapsychology and Psychophysiology / Near-death experience / Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)

Reference code: NDE-62
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 1/Outros Apoios
Title:
A novel closed-loop EEG-tDCS approach to promote responsiveness of patients in minimally conscious state: A study protocol
Publication year: 2021
URL:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0166432821001996
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) applied over the prefrontal cortex has been shown to improve behavioral responsiveness in patients with disorders of consciousness following severe brain injury, especially those in minimally conscious state (MCS). However, one potential barrier of clinical response to tDCS is the timing of stimulation with regard to the fluctuations of vigilance that characterize this population. Indeed, a previous study showed that the vigilance of MCS patients has periodic average cycles of 70?min (range 57-80?min), potentially preventing them to be in an optimal neural state to benefit from tDCS when applied randomly. To tackle this issue, we propose a new protocol to optimize the application of tDCS by selectively stimulating at high and low vigilance states. Electroencephalography (EEG) real-time spectral entropy will be used as a marker of vigilance and to trigger tDCS, in a closed-loop fashion. We will conduct a randomized controlled crossover clinical trial on 16 patients in prolonged MCS who will undergo three EEG-tDCS sessions 5 days apart (1. tDCS applied at high vigilance; 2. tDCS applied at low vigilance; 3. tDCS applied at a random moment). Behavioral effects will be assessed using the Coma Recovery Scale-Revised at baseline and right after the stimulations. EEG will be recorded throughout the session and for 30?min after the end of the stimulation. This unique and novel approach will provide patients’ tailored treatment options, currently lacking in the field of disorders of consciousness.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Copyright/Reproduction:
By permission
Language:
eng
Author:
Martens, G.
Secondary author(s):
Ibáñez-Soria, D., Barra, A., Soria-Frisch, A., Piarulli, A., Gosseries, O., Salvador, R., Rojas, A., Nitsche, M. A., Kroupi, E., Laureys, S., Ruffini, G., Thibaut, A
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Martens, G., Ibáñez-Soria, D., Barra, A., Soria-Frisch, A., Piarulli, A., Gosseries, O., ..., Thibaut, A. (2021). A novel closed-loop EEG-tDCS approach to promote responsiveness of patients in minimally conscious state: A study protocol. Behavioural Brain Research, 409: 113311. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbr.2021.113311
2-year Impact Factor: 3.332|2020
Impact factor notes: Impact factor not available yet for 2021
Times cited: 19|2025-09-20
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q2
Keywords: Transcranial direct current stimulation / Minimally conscious state / EEG / Vigilance / Spectral entropy
DocumentDecreased evoked slow-activity after tDCS in disorders of consciousness2020

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: NDE
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 1/Outros Apoios
Title:
Characterization of “Near-Death Experiences” through the comparison of experiencers and non-experiencers’ particularities: inter-individual differences in cognitive characteristics and susceptibility to false memories
Duration: 2016-03 - 2019-03
Researcher(s):
Steven Laureys, Charlotte Martial, Héléna Cassol
Institution(s): Coma Science Group, University of Liège (Belgium)
Contents: Application
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Laureys, S.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Parapsychology and Psychophysiology / Near-death experience / Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)

Reference code: NDE-71
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 1/Outros Apoios
Title:
Decreased evoked slow-activity after tDCS in disorders of consciousness
Publication year: 2020
URL:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7546425/
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Due to life-saving medical advances, the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of consciousness (DOC) has become a more commonly occurring clinical issue. One recently developed intervention option has been non-invasive transcranial direct current stimulation. This dichotomy of patient responders may be better understood by investigating the mechanism behind the transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) intervention. The combination of transcranial magnetic stimulation and electroencephalography (TMS-EEG) has been an important diagnostic tool in DOC patients. We therefore examined the neural response using TMS-EEG both before and after tDCS in seven DOC patients (four diagnosed as in a minimally conscious state and three with unresponsive wakefulness syndrome). tDCS was applied over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, while TMS pulses were applied to the premotor cortex. None of the seven patients showed relevant behavioral change after tDCS. We did, however, find that the overall evoked slow activity was reduced following tDCS intervention. We also found a positive correlation between the strength of the slow activity and the amount of high-frequency suppression. However, there was no significant pre-post tDCS difference in high frequencies. In the resting-state EEG, we observed that both the incidence of slow waves and the positive slope of the wave were affected by tDCS. Taken together, these results suggest that the tDCS intervention can reduce the slow-wave activity component of bistability, but this may not directly affect high-frequency activity. We hypothesize that while reduced slow activity may be necessary for the recovery of neural function, especially consciousness, this alone is insufficient.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Mensen, A.
Secondary author(s):
Bodart, O., Thibaut, A., Wannez, S., Annen, J., Laureys, S., Gosseries, O.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Percentiles:
59.97|0.78
Reference:
Mensen, A., Bodart, O., Thibaut, A., Wannez, S., Annen, J., Laureys, S., & Gosseries, O. (2020). Decreased evoked slow-activity after tDCS in disorders of consciousness. Frontiers in Systems Neuroscience, 14: 62. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnsys.2020.00062
2-year Impact Factor: 3.289|2020
Times cited: 17|2026-02-12
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q3
Keywords: Disorders of consciousness / Transcranial direct current stimulation / Transcranial magnetic stimulation / Electroencephalography / Bistability / Slow activity / Diagnosis / Treatment

Decreased evoked slow-activity after tDCS in disorders of consciousness

Decreased evoked slow-activity after tDCS in disorders of consciousness
DocumentEffect of multichannel transcranial direct current stimulation to reduce hypertonia in individuals with prolonged disorders of consciousness: A randomized controlled pilot study2019

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: NDE
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 1/Outros Apoios
Title:
Characterization of “Near-Death Experiences” through the comparison of experiencers and non-experiencers’ particularities: inter-individual differences in cognitive characteristics and susceptibility to false memories
Duration: 2016-03 - 2019-03
Researcher(s):
Steven Laureys, Charlotte Martial, Héléna Cassol
Institution(s): Coma Science Group, University of Liège (Belgium)
Contents: Application
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Laureys, S.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Parapsychology and Psychophysiology / Near-death experience / Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)

Reference code: NDE-73
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 1/Outros Apoios
Title:
Effect of multichannel transcranial direct current stimulation to reduce hypertonia in individuals with prolonged disorders of consciousness: A randomized controlled pilot study
Publication year: 2019
URL:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1877065719300934
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Background: Spasticity management in severely brain-injured patients with disorders of consciousness (DOC) is a major challenge because it leads to complications and severe pain that can seriously affect quality of life.
Objectives: We aimed to determine the feasibility of a single session of transcranial direct current stimulations (tDCS) to reduce spasticity in chronic patients with DOC.
Methods: We enrolled 14 patients in this double-blind, sham-controlled randomized crossover pilot study. Two cathodes were placed over the left and right primary motor cortex and 2 anodes over the left and right prefrontal cortex. Hypertonia of the upper limbs and level of consciousness were assessed by the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) and the Coma Recovery Scale-Revised (CRS-R). Resting state electroencephalography was also performed.
Results: At the group level, spasticity was reduced in only finger flexors. Four responders (29%) showed reduced hypertonicity in at least 2 joints after active but not sham stimulation. We found no behavioural changes by the CRS-R total score. At the group level, connectivity values in beta2 were higher with active versus sham stimulation. Relative power in the theta band and connectivity in the beta band were higher for responders than non-responders after the active stimulation.
Conclusion: This pilot study highlights the potential benefit of using tDCS for reducing upper-limb hypertonia in patients with chronic DOC. Large-sample clinical trials are needed to optimize and validate the technique.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Thibaut, A.
Secondary author(s):
Piarulli, A., Martens, G., Chatelle, C., Laureys, S.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Percentiles:
80.07|1.51
Reference:
Thibaut, A., Piarulli, A., Martens, G., Chatelle, C., & Laureys, S. (2019). Effect of multichannel transcranial direct current stimulation to reduce hypertonia in individuals with prolonged disorders of consciousness: A randomized controlled pilot study. Annals of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, 62(6), 418-425. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rehab.2019.05.009
2-year Impact Factor: 3.657|2019
Times cited: 21|2026-02-12
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Upper motor neuron syndrome / Spasticity / Hypertonia / Transcranial direct current stimulation / Minimally conscious state / Vegetative state

Effect of multichannel transcranial direct current stimulation to reduce hypertonia in individuals with prolonged disorders of consciousness: A randomized controlled pilot study

Effect of multichannel transcranial direct current stimulation to reduce hypertonia in individuals with prolonged disorders of consciousness: A randomized controlled pilot study
DocumentSham-controlled randomized multicentre trial of transcranial direct current stimulation for prolonged disorders of consciousness2023

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: NDE
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 1/Outros Apoios
Title:
Characterization of “Near-Death Experiences” through the comparison of experiencers and non-experiencers’ particularities: inter-individual differences in cognitive characteristics and susceptibility to false memories
Duration: 2016-03 - 2019-03
Researcher(s):
Steven Laureys, Charlotte Martial, Héléna Cassol
Institution(s): Coma Science Group, University of Liège (Belgium)
Contents: Application
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Laureys, S.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Parapsychology and Psychophysiology / Near-death experience / Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)

Reference code: NDE-120
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Sham-controlled randomized multicentre trial of transcranial direct current stimulation for prolonged disorders of consciousness
Publication year: 2023
URL:
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ene.15974
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Background and purpose: Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been shown to improve signs of consciousness in a subset of patients with disorders of consciousness (DoC). However, no multicentre study confirmed its efficacy when applied during rehabilitation. In this randomized controlled double-blind study, the effects of tDCS whilst patients were in rehabilitation were tested at the group level and according to their diagnosis and aetiology to better target DoC patients who might repond to tDCS.
Methods: Patients received 2 mA tDCS or sham applied over the left prefrontal cortex for 4 weeks. Behavioural assessments were performed weekly and up to 3 months' follow-up. Analyses were conducted at the group and subgroup levels based on the diagnosis (minimally conscious state [MCS] and unresponsive wakefulness syndrome) and the aetiology (traumatic or non-traumatic). Interim analyses were planned to continue or stop the trial.
Results: The trial was stopped for futility when 62 patients from 10 centres were enrolled (44 ± 14 years, 37 ± 24.5 weeks post-injury, 18 women, 32 MCS, 39 non-traumatic). Whilst, at the group level, no treatment effect was found, the subgroup analyses at 3 months' follow-up revealed a significant improvement for patients in MCS and with traumatic aetiology.
Conclusions: Transcranial direct current stimulation during rehabilitation does not seem to enhance patients' recovery. However, diagnosis and aetiology appear to be important factors leading to a response to the treatment. These findings bring novel insights into possible cortical plasticity changes in DoC patients given these differential results according to the subgroups of patients.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Thibaut, A.
Secondary author(s):
Fregni, F., Estraneo, A., Fiorenza, S., Noe, E., Llorens, R., Ferri, J., Formisano, R., Morone, G., Bender, A., Rosenfelder, M., Lamberti, G., Kodratyeva, E., Legostaeva, L., Suponeva, N., Krewer, C., Müller, F., Dardenne, N., Jedidi, H., Laureys, S., Gosseries, O., Lejeune, N., Martens, G., IBIA DOC-SIG
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Thibaut, A., Fregni, F., Estraneo, A., Fiorenza, S., Noe, E., Llorens, R., Ferri, J., Formisano, R., Morone, G., Bender, A., Rosenfelder, M., Lamberti, G., Kodratyeva, E., Kondratyev, S., Legostaeva, L., Suponeva, N., Krewer, C., Müller, F., Dardenne, N., Jedidi, H., … IBIA DOC-SIG (2023). Sham-controlled randomized multicentre trial of transcranial direct current stimulation for prolonged disorders of consciousness. European Journal of Neurology, 30(10), 3016–3031. https://doi.org/10.1111/ene.15974
2-year Impact Factor: 4.5|2023
Times cited: 19|2025-09-26
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Anoxia / Coma / Disorders of consciousness / Minimally conscious sate / Rehabilitation / Stroke / Transcranial direct current stimulation / Traumatic brain injury / Vegetative state

Sham-controlled randomized multicentre trial of transcranial direct current stimulation for prolonged disorders of consciousness

Sham-controlled randomized multicentre trial of transcranial direct current stimulation for prolonged disorders of consciousness
DocumentA scoping review on the use of non-invasive brain stimulation techniques for persistent post-concussive symptoms2024

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: NDE
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 1/Outros Apoios
Title:
Characterization of “Near-Death Experiences” through the comparison of experiencers and non-experiencers’ particularities: inter-individual differences in cognitive characteristics and susceptibility to false memories
Duration: 2016-03 - 2019-03
Researcher(s):
Steven Laureys, Charlotte Martial, Héléna Cassol
Institution(s): Coma Science Group, University of Liège (Belgium)
Contents: Application
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Laureys, S.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Parapsychology and Psychophysiology / Near-death experience / Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)

Reference code: NDE-123
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
A scoping review on the use of non-invasive brain stimulation techniques for persistent post-concussive symptoms
Publication year: 2024
URL:
https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12020450
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Background:
In the context of managing persistent post-concussive symptoms (PPCS), existing treatments like pharmacotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and physical rehabilitation show only moderate effectiveness. The emergence of neuromodulation techniques in PPCS management has led to debates regarding optimal stimulation parameters and their overall efficacy.
Methods: this scoping review involved a comprehensive search of PubMed and ScienceDirect databases, focusing on controlled studies examining the therapeutic potential of non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) techniques in adults with PPCS.
Results: Among the 940 abstracts screened, only five studies, encompassing 103 patients (12 to 29 per study), met the inclusion criteria. These studies assessed the efficacy of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), or repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), applied to specific brain regions (i.e., the left dorsolateral pre-frontal cortex (DLPFC) or left motor cortex (M1)) for addressing cognitive and psychological symptoms, headaches, and general PPCSs. The results indicated improvements in cognitive functions with tDCS. In contrast, reductions in headache intensity and depression scores were observed with rTMS, while no significant findings were noted for general symptoms with rTMS.
Conclusion: although these pilot studies suggest promise for rTMS and tDCS in PPCS management, further research with larger-scale investigations and standardized protocols is imperative to enhance treatment outcomes for PPCS patients.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Khosravi, M. H.
Secondary author(s):
Louras, M., Martens, G., Kaux, J. F., Thibaut, A., Lejeune, N.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Khosravi, M. H., Louras, M., Martens, G., Kaux, J. F., Thibaut, A., & Lejeune, N. (2024). A Scoping Review on the Use of Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation Techniques for Persistent Post-Concussive Symptoms. Biomedicines, 12(2), 450. https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12020450
2-year Impact Factor: 3.9|2024
Times cited: 1|2025-09-26
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Non-invasive brain stimulation / Transcranial direct current stimulation / tDCS / transcranial magnetic stimulation / rTMS / Post-concussive symptoms

A scoping review on the use of non-invasive brain stimulation techniques for persistent post-concussive symptoms

A scoping review on the use of non-invasive brain stimulation techniques for persistent post-concussive symptoms
File323 - The psychophysiological and neurocognitive correlates of mindfulness (MindfulBrain+)2025-02

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2024
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2024 Grants
Start date: 2025-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2024-323
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
323 - The psychophysiological and neurocognitive correlates of mindfulness (MindfulBrain+)
Duration: 2025-02
Researcher(s):
Ana Ganho-Ávila, Vera Mateus, Andrea Antal, Perianen Ramasawmy, Marco Pereira, Raquel Guiomar, Mónica Sobral, Filipa Santos, Yasmin Vieira
Institution(s): Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention - CINEICC, University of Coimbra (Portugal); Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Göttingen (Germany)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Article
Language: eng
Notes:
Ongoing project
Author: Ganho-Ávila, A.
Secondary author(s):
Mateus, V., Antal, A., Ramasawmy, P., Pereira, M., Guiomar, R., Sobral, M., Santos, F., Vieira, Y.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Virtual reality-based Mindfulness / Transcranial direct current stimulation / Cognition / Neuropsychophysiology / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology