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DocumentDiagnostic, pronostic et traitements des troubles de la conscience2018

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, Vanessa Charland-Verville, 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-18
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 1/Outros Apoios
Title:
Diagnostic, pronostic et traitements des troubles de la conscience
Publication year: 2018
URL:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1627483017300661
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Advances in medicine and intensive care have led to an increase in the number of patients surviving a severe brain injury. Although some patients recover quickly, others remain in a state of altered consciousness. These patients can progress from a coma to a vegetative state or unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (VS/UWS) and later to a minimally conscious state (MCS). In this review, we first describe the different behavioral and neuroimaging methods used in the diagnosis of patients in an altered state of consciousness. We then describe the factors that can influence the prognosis and recovery of these patients, as well as the treatment and therapeutic management that can be proposed in order to improve their state of consciousness. Finally, we conclude this review by highlighting ethical considerations and end-of-life issues.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Copyright/Reproduction:
By permission
Language:
french
Author:
Cassol, H.
Secondary author(s):
Aubinet, C., Thibaut, A., Wannez, S., Martial, C., Martens, G., Laureys, S.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Cassol, H., Aubinet, C., Thibaut, A., Wannez, S., Martial, C., Martens, G., & Laureys, S. (2018). Diagnosis, prognosis and treatment in disorders of consciousness [Diagnostic, pronostic et traitements des troubles de la conscience]. NPG Neurologie - Psychiatrie - Geriatrie, 18(103), 38-46.
2-year Impact Factor: N/A
Times cited: N/A
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: N/A
Keywords: Consciousness / Brain injury / Diagnosis / Prognosis / Treatment / Altered states of consciousness / Coma / Vegetative state / Unresponsive wakefulness syndrome / Minimally conscious state / Locked-in syndrome / Neuroimaging / Positron emission tomography / Coma Recovery Scale-Revised / Magnetic resonance / Electroencephalography / Transcranial magnetic stimulation
DocumentIs oral feeding compatible with an unresponsive wakefulness syndrome?2018

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, Vanessa Charland-Verville, 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-23
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 1/Outros Apoios
Title:
Is oral feeding compatible with an unresponsive wakefulness syndrome?
Publication year: 2018
URL:
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs00415-018-8794-y
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
OBJECTIVE
The aim of the study is to explore the possibility of oral feeding in unresponsive wakefulness syndrome/vegetative state (UWS/VS) patients.
METHOD
We reviewed the clinical information of 68 UWS/VS patients (mean age 45 ± 11; range 16-79 years) searching for mention of oral feeding. UWS/VS diagnosis was made after repeated behavioural assessments using the Coma Recovery Scale-Revised. Patients also had complementary neuroimaging evaluations (positron emission tomography, functional magnetic resonance imaging and electroencephalography and diffusion tensor imaging).
RESULTS
Out of the 68 UWS/VS patients, only two could resume oral feeding (3%). The first patient had oral feeding (only liquid and semi liquid) in addition to gastrostomy feeding and the second one could achieve full oral feeding (liquid and mixed solid food). Clinical assessments concluded that they fulfilled the criteria for a diagnosis of UWS/VS. Results from neuroimaging and neurophysiology were typical for the first patient with regard to the diagnosis of UWS/VS but atypical for the second patient.
CONCLUSION
Oral feeding that implies a full and complex oral phase could probably be considered as a sign of consciousness. However, we actually do not know which components are necessary to consider the swallowing conscious as compared to reflex. We also discussed the importance of swallowing assessment and management in all patients with altered state of consciousness.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Copyright/Reproduction:
By permission
Language:
eng
Author:
Mélotte, E.
Secondary author(s):
Maudoux, A., Delhalle, S., Martial, C., Antonopoulos, G., Larroque S., Wannez, S., Faymonville, M-E., Kaux, J-F., Laureys, S., Gosserie, O., Vanhaudenhuyse, A.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Mélotte, E., Maudoux, A., Delhalle, S., Martial, C., Antonopoulos, G., Larroque S., Wannez, S., Faymonville, M-E., Kaux, J-F., Laureys, S., Gosserie, O., & Vanhaudenhuyse, A. (2018). Is oral feeding compatible with an unresponsive wakefulness syndrome? Journal of Neurology, 265(4), 954-961. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00415-018-8794-y
2-year Impact Factor: 4.204|2018
Times cited: 19|2025-02-11
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Consciousness / Dysphagia / Oral-feeding / Swallowing / Unresponsive wakefulness syndrome

Is oral feeding compatible with an unresponsive wakefulness syndrome?

Is oral feeding compatible with an unresponsive wakefulness syndrome?
DocumentDMT Models the Near-Death Experience2018

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, Vanessa Charland-Verville, 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-26
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 1/Outros Apoios
Title:
DMT Models the Near-Death Experience
Publication year: 2018
URL:
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2018.01424/full
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Near-death experiences (NDEs) are complex subjective experiences, which have been previously associated with the psychedelic experience and more specifically with the experience induced by the potent serotonergic, N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT). Potential similarities between both subjective states have been noted previously, including the subjective feeling of transcending one’s body and entering an alternative realm, perceiving and communicating with sentient ‘entities’ and themes related to death and dying. In this within-subjects placebo-controled study we aimed to test the similarities between the DMT state and NDEs, by administering DMT and placebo to 13 healthy participants, who then completed a validated and widely used measure of NDEs. Results revealed significant increases in phenomenological features associated with the NDE, following DMT administration compared to placebo. Also, we found significant relationships between the NDE scores and DMT-induced ego-dissolution and mystical-type experiences, as well as a significant association between NDE scores and baseline trait ‘absorption’ and delusional ideation measured at baseline. Furthermore, we found a significant overlap in nearly all of the NDE phenomenological features when comparing DMT-induced NDEs with a matched group of ‘actual’ NDE experiencers. These results reveal a striking similarity between these states that warrants further investigation.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Timmermann, C.
Secondary author(s):
Roseman, L., Williams, L., Erritzoe, D., Martial, C., Cassol, H., Laureys, S., Nutt, D., Carhart-Harris, R.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Timmermann, C., Roseman, L., Williams, L., Erritzoe, D., Martial, C., Cassol, H., Laureys, S., Nutt, D., & Carhart-Harris, R. (2018). DMT Models the Near-Death Experience. Frontiers in Psychology, 9: 1424. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2018.01424
2-year Impact Factor: 2.129|2018
Times cited: 111|2025-02-11
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q2
Keywords: Disorders of consciousness / Resistance to eye opening / Unresponsive wakefulness syndrome / Minimally conscious state

DMT Models the Near-Death Experience

DMT Models the Near-Death Experience
DocumentResistance to eye opening in patients with disorders of consciousness2018

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, Vanessa Charland-Verville, 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-27
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 1/Outros Apoios
Title:
Resistance to eye opening in patients with disorders of consciousness
Publication year: 2018
URL:
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs00415-018-8849-0
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
INTRODUCTION
Resistance to eye opening (REO) is a commonly encountered phenomenon in clinical practice. We aim to investigate whether REO is a sign of consciousness or a reflex in severely brain-injured patients.
METHODS
We recorded REO in chronic patients with disorders of consciousness during a multimodal diagnostic assessment. REO evaluations were performed daily in each patient and clinical diagnosis of unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (UWS), minimally conscious state with (MCS+) or without (MCS-) preserved language processing was made using the Coma Recovery Scale-Revised (CRS-R).
RESULTS
Out of 150 consecutive patients, 79 patients fit inclusion criteria. REO was seen in 19 patients (24.1%). At the group level, there was a significant relationship between the presence of REO and the level of consciousness. We also observed a difference in the repeatability of REO between patients in UWS, MCS- and MCS+. Out of 23 patients in UWS, six showed REO, in whom five showed atypical brain patterns activation.
CONCLUSION
Our findings suggest a voluntary basis for REO and stress the need for multiple serial assessments of REO in these patients, especially since most patients show fluctuating levels of consciousness.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Copyright/Reproduction:
By permission
Language:
eng
Author:
van Ommen, J. H.
Secondary author(s):
Thibaut, T., Vanhaudenhuyse, A., Heine, L., Charland-Verville, V., Wannez, S., Bodart, O., Laureys, S., Gosseries, O.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
van Ommen, J. H., Thibaut, T., Vanhaudenhuyse, A., Heine, L., Charland-Verville, V., Wannez, S., Bodart, O., Laureys, S., & Gosseries, O. (2018). Resistance to eye opening in patients with disorders of consciousness. Journal of Neurology, 265(6), 1376-1380.
2-year Impact Factor: 4.204|2018
Times cited: 18|2025-02-11
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Disorders of consciousness / Minimally conscious state / Resistance to eye opening / Unresponsive wakefulness syndrome
DocumentClinical and electrophysiological investigation of spastic muscle overactivity in patients with disorders of consciousness following severe brain injury2019

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, Vanessa Charland-Verville, 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-36
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 1/Outros Apoios
Title:
Clinical and electrophysiological investigation of spastic muscle overactivity in patients with disorders of consciousness following severe brain injury
Publication year: 2019
URL:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1388245718313816?via%3Dihub
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE
The clinical and electrophysiological profile of spastic muscle overactivity (SMO) is poorly documented in patients with disorders of consciousness (DOC) following severe cortical and subcortical injury. We aim at investigating the link between the clinical observations of SMO and the electrophysiological spastic over-reactivity in patients with prolonged DOC.
METHODS
We prospectively enrolled adult patients with DOC at least 3?months post traumatic or non-traumatic brain injury. The spastic profile was investigated using the Modified Ashworth Scale and the Hmax/Mmax ratio. T1 MRI data and impact of medication were analyzed as well.
RESULTS
21 patients were included (mean age: 41?±?11?years; time since injury: 4?±?5?years; 9 women; 10 traumatic etiologies). Eighteen patients presented signs of SMO and 11 had an increased ratio. Eight patients presented signs of SMO but no increased ratio. We did not find any significant correlation between the ratio and the MAS score for each limb (all ps?>?0.05). The presence of medication was not significantly associated with a reduction in MAS scores or Hmax/Mmax ratios.
CONCLUSIONS
In this preliminary study, the Hmax/Mmax ratio does not seem to reflect the clinical MAS scores in patients with DOC. This supports the fact they do not only present spasticity but other forms of SMO and contracture.
SIGNIFICANCE
Patients with DOC are still in need of optimized tools to evaluate their spastic profile and therapeutic approaches should be adapted accordingly.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Copyright/Reproduction:
By permission
Language:
eng
Author:
Martens, G.
Secondary author(s):
Deltombe, T., Foidart-Dessalle, M., Laureys, S., Thibaut, A.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Martens, G., Deltombe, T., Foidart-Dessalle, M., Laureys, S., & Thibaut, A. (2019). Clinical and electrophysiological investigation of spastic muscle overactivity in patients with disorders of consciousness following severe brain injury. Clinical Neurophysiology, 130(2), 207-213. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clinph.2018.10.021
2-year Impact Factor: 3.214|2019
Times cited: 4|2025-02-13
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q2
Keywords: Coma / H/M ratio / Minimally conscious state / Modified Ashworth Scale / Spasticity / Unresponsive wakefulness syndrome
DocumentTreating disorders of consciousness with apomorphine: Protocol for a double-blind randomized controlled trial using multimodal assessments2019

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, Vanessa Charland-Verville, 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-39
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 1/Outros Apoios
Title:
Treating disorders of consciousness with apomorphine: Protocol for a double-blind randomized controlled trial using multimodal assessments
Publication year: 2019
URL:
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fneur.2019.00248/full
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND
There are few available therapeutic options to promote recovery among patients with chronic disorders of consciousness (DOC). Among pharmacological treatments, apomorphine, a dopamine agonist, has exhibited promising behavioral effects and safety of use in small-sample pilot studies. The true efficacy of the drug and its neural mechanism are still unclear. Apomorphine may act through a modulation of the anterior forebrain mesocircuit, but neuroimaging and neurophysiological investigations to test this hypothesis are scarce. This clinical trial aims to (1) assess the treatment effect of subcutaneous apomorphine infusions in patients with DOC, (2) better identify the phenotype of responders to treatment, (3) evaluate tolerance and side effects in this population, and (4) examine the neural networks underlying its modulating action on consciousness.
METHODS/DESIGN
This study is a prospective double-blind randomized parallel placebo-controlled trial. Forty-eight patients diagnosed with DOC will be randomized to receive a 30-day regimen of either apomorphine hydrochloride or placebo subcutaneous infusions. Patients will be monitored at baseline 30 days before initiation of therapy, during treatment and for 30 days after treatment washout, using standardized behavioral scales (Coma Recovery Scale-Revised, Nociception Coma Scale-Revised), neurophysiological measures (electroencephalography, body temperature, actigraphy) and brain imaging (magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography). Behavioral follow-up will be performed up to 2 years using structured phone interviews. Analyses will look for changes in behavioral status, circadian rhythmicity, brain metabolism, and functional connectivity at the individual level (comparing before and after treatment) and at the group level (comparing apomorphine and placebo arms, and comparing responder and non-responder groups).
DISCUSSION
This study investigates the use of apomorphine for the recovery of consciousness in the first randomized placebo-controlled double-blind trial using multimodal assessments. The results will contribute to define the role of dopamine agonists for the treatment of these challenging conditions and identify the neural correlates to their action. Results will bring objective evidence to further assess the modulation of the anterior forebrain mesocircuit by pharmacological agents, which may open new therapeutic perspectives.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Sanz, L. R.
Secondary author(s):
Lejeune, N., Blandiaux, S., Bonin, E., Thibaut, A., Stender, J., Farber, N. M., Zafonte, R. D., Schiff, N. D., Laureys, S., Gosseries, O.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Sanz, L. R., Lejeune, N., Blandiaux, S., Bonin, E., Thibaut, A., Stender, J., ... Gosseries, O. (2019). Treating disorders of consciousness with apomorphine: Protocol for a double-blind randomized controlled trial using multimodal assessments. Frontiers in Neurology, 10:248. https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2019.00248
2-year Impact Factor: 2.889|2019
Times cited: 14|2025-02-13
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q2
Keywords: Disorders of consciousness / Unresponsive wakefulness syndrome / Minimally conscious state / Apomorphine / Dopamine / Mesocircuit / Clinical trial / Protocol

Treating disorders of consciousness with apomorphine: Protocol for a double-blind randomized controlled trial using multimodal assessments

Treating disorders of consciousness with apomorphine: Protocol for a double-blind randomized controlled trial using multimodal assessments
DocumentSingle tDCS session of motor cortex in patients with disorders of consciousness: A 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, Vanessa Charland-Verville, 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-45
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 1/Outros Apoios
Title:
Single tDCS session of motor cortex in patients with disorders of consciousness: A pilot study
Publication year: 2019
URL:
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/02699052.2019.1667537?journalCode=ibij20
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Primary Objective: Patients with disorders of consciousness (DOC) face a lack of treatments and risk of misdiagnosis, potentially due to motor impairment. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) showed promising results over the prefrontal cortex in DOC and over the primary motor cortex (M1) in stroke. Tis pilot study aimed at evaluating the behavioral effects of M1 tDCS in patients with DOC. Research Design: In this randomized double-blind sham-controlled crossover trial, we included 10 patients (49 ± 22 years, 7 ± 13 months since injury, 4 unresponsive wakefulness syndrome, 6 minimally conscious state, 5 traumatic etiologies). Methods and Procedures: One session of tDCS (2 mA for 20 min) and one session of sham tDCS were applied over M1 in a randomized order with a washout period of minimum 24 h and behavioral effects were assessed using the CRS-R. At the group level, no treatment effect was identified on the total score (p = .55) and on the motor subscale (p = .75). Two patients responded to tDCS by showing a new sign of consciousness (visual pursuit and object localization). Conclusions: One session of M1 tDCS failed to improve behavioral responsiveness in patients with DOC. Other application strategies should be tested.
Accessibility: Document does not exist in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Martens, G.
Secondary author(s):
Fregni, F., Carrière, M., Barra, A., Laureys, S., Thibaut, A.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Martens, G., Fregni, F., Carrière, M., Barra, A., Laureys, S., & Thibaut, A. (2019). Single tDCS session of motor cortex in patients with disorders of consciousness: A pilot study. Brain Injury. https://doi.org/10.1080/02699052.2019.1667537
2-year Impact Factor: 1.690|2019
Times cited: 24|2025-02-13
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q2
Keywords: Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) / Disorders of consciousness / Motor cortex / Unresponsive wakefulness syndrome / Minimally conscious state
DocumentChapter 11 - Brain-computer interfaces for consciousness assessment and communication in severely brain-injured patients2020

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, Vanessa Charland-Verville, 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-52
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 1/Outros Apoios
Title:
Chapter 11 - Brain-computer interfaces for consciousness assessment and communication in severely brain-injured patients
Publication year: 2020
URL:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780444639349000111
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Patients with disorders of consciousness (DOC) suffer from awareness deficits. Comorbidities such as motor disabilities or visual problems hamper clinical assessments, which can lead to misdiagnosis of the level of consciousness and render the patient unable to communicate. Objective measures of consciousness can reduce the risk of misdiagnosis and could enable patients to communicate by voluntarily modulating their brain activity. This chapter gives an overview of the literature regarding brain-computer interface (BCI) research in DOC patients. Different auditory, visual, and motor imagery paradigms are discussed, alongside their corresponding advantages and disadvantages. At this point, the use of BCIs for DOC patients in clinical applications is still preliminary. However, perspectives on the improvements in BCIs for DOC patients seem positive, and implementation during rehabilitation shows promise.
Accessibility: Document does not exist in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Annen, J.
Secondary author(s):
Laureys, S., Gosseries, O.
Document type:
Book chapter
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Annen, J., Laureys, S., & Gosseries, O. (2020). Chapter 11 - Brain-computer interfaces for consciousness assessment and communication in severely brain-injured patients. Handbook of Clinical Neurology, 168, 137-152. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-444-63934-9.00011-1
Indexed document: Yes
Keywords: Awareness / Command following / Disorders of consciousness / EEG / Locked-in syndrome / Minimally conscious state / P300 / Unresponsive wakefulness syndrome
DocumentBehavioral and electrophysiological effects of network-based frontoparietal tDCS in patients with severe brain injury: A randomized controlled trial2020

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, Vanessa Charland-Verville, 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-67
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 1/Outros Apoios
Title:
Behavioral and electrophysiological effects of network-based frontoparietal tDCS in patients with severe brain injury: A randomized controlled trial
Publication year: 2020
URL:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7511767/
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND
Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) may promote the recovery of severely brain-injured patients with disorders of consciousness (DOC). Prior tDCS studies targeted single brain regions rather than brain networks critical for consciousness recovery.
OBJECTIVE
Investigate the behavioral and electrophysiological effects of multifocal tDCS applied over the frontoparietal external awareness network in patients with chronic acquired DOC.
METHODS
Forty-six patients were included in this randomized double-blind sham-controlled crossover trial (median [interquartile range]: 46 [35 - 59] years old; 12 [5 - 47] months post injury; 17 unresponsive wakefulness syndrome, 23 minimally conscious state (MCS) and 6 emerged from the MCS). Multifocal tDCS was applied for 20 min using 4 anodes and 4 cathodes with 1 mA per electrode. Coma Recovery Scale-Revised (CRS-R) assessment and 10 min of resting state electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings were acquired before and after the active and sham sessions.
RESULTS
At the group level, there was no tDCS behavioral treatment effect. However, following active tDCS, the EEG complexity significantly increased in low frequency bands (1-8 Hz). CRS-R total score improvement was associated with decreased baseline complexity in those bands. At the individual level, after active tDCS, new behaviors consistent with conscious awareness emerged in 5 patients. Conversely, 3 patients lost behaviors consistent with conscious awareness.
CONCLUSION
The behavioral effect of multifocal frontoparietal tDCS varies across patients with DOC. Electrophysiological changes were observed in low frequency bands but not translated into behavioral changes at the group level.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Martens, G.
Secondary author(s):
Kroupi, E., Bodien, Y., Frasso, G., Annen, J., Cassol, H., Barra, A., Martial, C., Gosseries, O., Lejeune, N., Soria-Frisch, A., Ruffini, G., Laureys, S., Thibaut, A.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Martens, G., Kroupi, E., Bodien, Y., Frasso, G., Annen, J., Cassol, H., Barra, A., ... Thibaut, A. (2020). Behavioral and electrophysiological effects of network-based frontoparietal tDCS in patients with severe brain injury: A randomized controlled trial. NeuroImage: Clinical, 28: 102426. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nicl.2020.102426
2-year Impact Factor: 4.881|2020
Times cited: 26|2025-02-14
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q2
Keywords: TDCS / Network / Minimally conscious state / Unresponsive wakefulness syndrome / EEG / Consciousness

Behavioral and electrophysiological effects of network-based frontoparietal tDCS in patients with severe brain injury: A randomized controlled trial

Behavioral and electrophysiological effects of network-based frontoparietal tDCS in patients with severe brain injury: A randomized controlled trial
DocumentConscious while being considered in an unresponsive wakefulness syndrome for 20 years2018

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, Vanessa Charland-Verville, 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-70
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 1/Outros Apoios
Title:
Conscious while being considered in an unresponsive wakefulness syndrome for 20 years
Publication year: 2018
URL:
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fneur.2018.00671/full
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Despite recent advances in our understanding of consciousness disorders, accurate diagnosis of severely brain-damaged patients is still a major clinical challenge. We here present the case of a patient who was considered in an unresponsive wakefulness syndrome/vegetative state for 20 years. Repeated standardized behavioral examinations combined to neuroimaging assessments allowed us to show that this patient was in fact fully conscious and was able to functionally communicate. We thus revised the diagnosis into an incomplete locked-in syndrome, notably because the main brain lesion was located in the brainstem. Clinical examinations of severe brain injured patients suffering from serious motor impairment should systematically include repeated standardized behavioral assessments and, when possible, neuroimaging evaluations encompassing magnetic resonance imaging and F-18-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Vanhaudenhuyse, A.
Secondary author(s):
Charland-Verville, V., Thibaut, A., Chatelle, C., Tshibanda, J. L., Maudoux, A., Faymonville, M. E., Laureys, S., Gosseries, O.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Vanhaudenhuyse, A., Charland-Verville, V., Thibaut, A., Chatelle, C., Tshibanda, J. L., Maudoux, A., Faymonville, M. E., Laureys, S., & Gosseries, O. (2018). Conscious while being considered in an unresponsive wakefulness syndrome for 20 years. Frontiers in Neurology, 9: 671. https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2018.00671
2-year Impact Factor: 2.635|2018
Times cited: 12|2025-02-11
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q3
Keywords: Disorders of consciousness / Misdiagnosis / Locked-in syndrome / Unresponsive wakefulness syndrome / MRI / PET / EEG / Vegetative state

Conscious while being considered in an unresponsive wakefulness syndrome for 20 years

Conscious while being considered in an unresponsive wakefulness syndrome for 20 years
DocumentDiagnostic accuracy of the CRS-R index in patients with disorders of consciousness2019

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, Vanessa Charland-Verville, 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-72
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 1/Outros Apoios
Title:
Diagnostic accuracy of the CRS-R index in patients with disorders of consciousness
Publication year: 2019
URL:
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/02699052.2019.1644376?journalCode=ibij20
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Objective: To obtain a CRS-R index suitable for diagnosis of patients with disorders of consciousness (DOC) and compare it to other CRS-R based scores to evaluate its potential for clinics and research. Design: We evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of several CRS-R-based scores in 124 patients with DOC. ROC analysis of the CRS-R total score, the Rasch-based CRS-R score, CRS-R-MS and the CRS-R index evaluated the diagnostic accuracy for patients with the Unresponsive Wakefulness Syndrome (UWS) and Minimally Conscious State (MCS). Correlations were computed between the CRS-R-MS, CRS-R index, the Rasch-based score and the CRS-R total score. Results: Both the CRS-R-MS and CRS-R index ranged from 0 to 100, with a cut-off of 8.315 that perfectly distinguishes between patients with UWS and MCS. The CRS-R total score and Rasch-based score did not provide a cut-off score for patients with UWS and MCS. The proposed CRS-R index correlated with the CRS-R total score, Rasch-based score and the CRS-R-MS. Conclusion: The CRS-R index is reliable to diagnose patients with UWS and MCS and can be used in compliance with the CRS-R scoring guidelines. The obtained index offers the opportunity to improve the interpretation of clinical assessment and can be used in (longitudinal) research protocols.
Accessibility: Document does not exist in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Annen, J.
Secondary author(s):
Filippini, M. M., Bonin, E., Cassol, H., Aubinet, C., Carrière, M., Gosseries, O, Thibaut, A., Barra, A., Wolff, A., Sanz, L. R. D., Martial, C., Laureys, S., Chatelle, C.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Annen, J., Filippini, M. M., Bonin, E., Cassol, H., Aubinet, C., Carrière, M., Gosseries, O., Thibaut, A., Barra, A., Wolff, A., Sanz, L. R. D., Martial, C., Laureys, S., & Chatelle, C. (2019). Diagnostic accuracy of the CRS-R index in patients with disorders of consciousness. Brain Injury, 33(11), 1409-1412. https://doi.org/10.1080/02699052.2019.1644376
2-year Impact Factor: 1.690|2019
Times cited: 55|2025-02-13
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q2
Keywords: CRS-R / CRS-R index / CSR-R modified score / Disorders of consciousness / Unresponsive wakefulness syndrome / Minimally conscious state
DocumentDecreased integration of EEG source-space networks in disorders of consciousness2019

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, Vanessa Charland-Verville, 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-84
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Decreased integration of EEG source-space networks in disorders of consciousness
Publication year: 2019
URL:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2213158219301913
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Increasing evidence links disorders of consciousness (DOC) with disruptions in functional connectivity between distant brain areas. However, to which extent the balance of brain network segregation and integration is modified in DOC patients remains unclear. Using high-density electroencephalography (EEG), the objective of our study was to characterize the local and global topological changes of DOC patients' functional brain networks.
Resting state high-density-EEG data were collected and analyzed from 82 participants: 61 DOC patients recovering from coma with various levels of consciousness (EMCS (n = 6), MCS + (n = 29), MCS- (n = 17) and UWS (n = 9)), and 21 healthy subjects (i.e., controls). Functional brain networks in five different EEG frequency bands and the broadband signal were estimated using an EEG connectivity approach at the source level. Graph theory-based analyses were used to evaluate their relationship with decreasing levels of consciousness as well as group differences between healthy volunteers and DOC patient groups.
Results showed that networks in DOC patients are characterized by impaired global information processing (network integration) and increased local information processing (network segregation) as compared to controls. The large-scale functional brain networks had integration decreasing with lower level of consciousness.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Rizkallah, J.
Secondary author(s):
Annen, J., Modolo, J., Gosseries, O., Benquet, P., Mortaheb, S., Amoud, H., Cassol, H., Mheich, A., Thibaut, A., Chatelle, C., Hassan, M., Panda, R., Wendling, F., Laureys, S.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Rizkallah, J., Annen, J., Modolo, J., Gosseries, O., Benquet, P., Mortaheb, S., Amoud, H., Cassol, H., Mheich, A., Thibaut, A., Chatelle, C., Hassan, M., Panda, R., Wendling, F., & Laureys, S. (2019). Decreased integration of EEG source-space networks in disorders of consciousness. NeuroImage: Clinical, 23: 101841. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nicl.2019.101841
2-year Impact Factor: 4.350|2019
Times cited: 56|2025-02-13
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q2
Keywords: Disorders of consciousness / High-density electroencephalography / Functional brain networks / Unresponsive wakefulness syndrome / Minimally conscious state

Decreased integration of EEG source-space networks in disorders of consciousness

Decreased integration of EEG source-space networks in disorders of consciousness
DocumentTowards modern post-coma care based on neuroscientific evidence2023

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, Vanessa Charland-Verville, 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-109
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Towards modern post-coma care based on neuroscientific evidence
Publication year: 2023
URL:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1697260023000066?via%3Dihub
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Background:
Understanding the mechanisms underlying human consciousness is pivotal to improve the prognostication and treatment of severely brain-injured patients. Consciousness remains an elusive concept and the identification of its neural correlates is an active subject of research, however recent neuroscientific advances have allowed scientists to better characterize disorders of consciousness. These breakthroughs question the historical nomenclature and our current management of post-comatose patients.
Method:
This review examines the contribution of consciousness neurosciences to the current clinical management of severe brain injury. It investigates the major impact of consciousness disorders on healthcare systems, the scientific frameworks employed to identify their neural correlates and how evidence-based data from neuroimaging research have reshaped the landscape of post-coma care in recent years.
Results:
Our increased ability to detect behavioral and neurophysiological signatures of consciousness has led to significant changes in taxonomy and clinical practice. We advocate for a multimodal framework for the management of severely brain-injured patients based on precision medicine and evidence-based decisions, integrating epidemiology, health economics and neuroethics.
Conclusions:
Major progress in brain imaging and clinical assessment have opened the door to a new era of post-coma care based on standardized neuroscientific evidence. We highlight its implications in clinical applications and call for improved collaborations between researchers and clinicians to better translate findings to the bedside.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Sanz, L. R. D.
Secondary author(s):
Laureys, S., Gosseries, O.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Sanz, L. R. D., Laureys, S., & Gosseries, O. (2023). Towards modern post-coma care based on neuroscientific evidence. International Journal of Clinical and Health Psychology, 23(3), 100370. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijchp.2023.100370
2-year Impact Factor: 5.3|2023
Times cited: 8|2025-02-18
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Disorders of consciousness / Neuroimaging / Coma / Unresponsive wakefulness syndrome / Minimally conscious state

Towards modern post-coma care based on neuroscientific evidence

Towards modern post-coma care based on neuroscientific evidence
DocumentThe current and future contribution of neuroimaging to the understanding of 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, Vanessa Charland-Verville, 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-111
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
The current and future contribution of neuroimaging to the understanding of disorders of consciousness
Publication year: 2023
URL:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0755498222000562?via%3Dihub
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Patients with disorders of consciousness (DoC) represent a group of severely brain-injured patients with varying capacities for consciousness in terms of both wakefulness and awareness. The current state-of-the-art for assessing these patients is through standardised behavioural examinations, but inaccuracies are commonplace. Neuroimaging and electrophysiological techniques have revealed vast insights into the relationships between neural alterations, andcognitive and behavioural features of consciousness in patients with DoC. This has led to the establishment of neuroimaging paradigms for the clinical assessment of DoC patients. Here, we review selected neuroimaging findings on the DoC population, outlining key findings of the dysfunction underlying DoC and presenting the current clinical utility of neuroimaging tools. We discuss that whilst individual brain areas play instrumental roles in generating and supporting consciousness, activation of these areas alone is not sufficient for conscious experience. Instead, for consciousness to arise, we need preserved thalamo-cortical circuits, in addition to sufficient connectivity between distinctly differentiated brain networks, underlined by connectivity both within, and between such brain networks. Finally, we present recent advances and future perspectives in computational methodologies applied to DoC, supporting the notion that progress in the science of DoC will be driven by a symbiosis of these data-driven analyses, and theory-driven research. Both perspectives will work in tandem to provide mechanistic insights contextualised within theoretical frameworks which ultimately inform the practice of clinical neurology.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Alnagger, N.
Secondary author(s):
Cardone, P., Martial, C., Laureys, S., Annen, J., Gosseries, O.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Alnagger, N., Cardone, P., Martial, C., Laureys, S., Annen, J., & Gosseries, O. (2023). The current and future contribution of neuroimaging to the understanding of disorders of consciousness. Presse Medicale, 52(2), 104163. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lpm.2022.104163
2-year Impact Factor: 3.2|2023
Times cited: 13|2025-02-18
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q2
Keywords: Disorders of consciousness / Coma / Unresponsive wakefulness syndrome / Vegetative state / Minimally conscious state / Electroencephalogram (EEG) / Neuroimaging / Whole brain models

The current and future contribution of neuroimaging to the understanding of disorders of consciousness

The current and future contribution of neuroimaging to the understanding of disorders of consciousness
DocumentTranscutaneous vagal nerve stimulation to treat disorders of consciousness: Protocol for a double-blind randomized controlled trial2023

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, Vanessa Charland-Verville, 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-113
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Transcutaneous vagal nerve stimulation to treat disorders of consciousness: Protocol for a double-blind randomized controlled trial
Publication year: 2023
URL:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1697260022000680
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Background:
Patients with disorders of consciousness (DoC) are a challenging population prone to misdiagnosis with limited effective treatment options. Among neuromodulation techniques, transcutaneous auricular vagal nerve stimulation (taVNS) may act through a bottom-up manner to modulate thalamo-cortical connectivity and promote patients' recovery. In this clinical trial, we aim to (1) assess the therapeutic clinical effects of taVNS in patients with DoC; (2) investigate the neural mechanisms underlying the effects of its action; (3) assess the feasibility and safety of the procedure in this challenging population; (4) define the phenotype of clinical responders; and (5) assess the long-term efficacy of taVNS in terms of functional outcomes.
Methods:
We will conduct a prospective parallel randomized controlled double-blind clinical trial investigating the effects of taVNS as a treatment in DoC patients. Forty-four patients in the early period post-injury (7 to 90 days following the injury) will randomly receive 5 days of either active bilateral vagal stimulation (45 min duration with 30s alternative episodes of active/rest periods; 3mA; 200-300µs current width, 25Hz.) or sham stimulation. Behavioural (i.e., Coma Recovery Scale-Revised, CRS-R) and neurophysiological (i.e., high-density electroencephalography, hd-EEG) measures will be collected at baseline and at the end of the 5-day treatment. Analyses will seek for changes in the CRS-R and the EEG metrics (e.g., alpha band power spectrum, functional connectivity) at the group and individual (i.e., responders) levels.
Discussion:
These results will allow us to investigate the vagal afferent network and will contribute towards a definition of the role of taVNS for the treatment of patients with DoC. We aim to identify the neural correlates of its action and pave the way to novel targeted therapeutic strategies.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Vitello, M. M.
Secondary author(s):
Briand, M. M., Ledoux, D., Annen, J., El Tahry, R., Laureys, S., Martin, D., Gosseries, O., Thibaut, A.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Vitello, M. M., Briand, M. M., Ledoux, D., Annen, J., El Tahry, R., Laureys, S., Martin, D., Gosseries, O., & Thibaut, A. (2023). Transcutaneous vagal nerve stimulation to treat disorders of consciousness: Protocol for a double-blind randomized controlled trial. International Journal of Clinical and Health Psychology, 23(2), 100360. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijchp.2022.100360
2-year Impact Factor: 5.3|2023
Times cited: 8|2025-02-18
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Behavior / Coma / Disorders of consciousness / Electroencephalography / Minimally conscious state / Randomized clinical trial / Treatment / Unresponsive wakefulness syndrome / Vagal nerve stimulation / Vegetative state

Transcutaneous vagal nerve stimulation to treat disorders of consciousness: Protocol for a double-blind randomized controlled trial

Transcutaneous vagal nerve stimulation to treat disorders of consciousness: Protocol for a double-blind randomized controlled trial
DocumentA protocol for a multicenter randomized and personalized controlled trial using rTMS in patients with 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, Vanessa Charland-Verville, 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-119
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
A protocol for a multicenter randomized and personalized controlled trial using rTMS in patients with disorders of consciousness
Publication year: 2023
URL:
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fneur.2023.1216468/full
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Background: Improving the functional recovery of patients with DoC remains one of the greatest challenges of the field. Different theories exist about the role of the anterior (prefrontal areas) versus posterior (parietal areas) parts of the brain as hotspots for the recovery of consciousness. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a powerful non-invasive brain stimulation technique for the treatment of DoC. However, a direct comparison of the effect of TMS treatment on the front versus the back of the brain has yet to be performed. In this study, we aim to assess the short- and long-term effects of frontal and parietal rTMS on DoC recovery and characterize responders phenotypically.
Methods/design: Ninety patients with subacute and prolonged DoC will be included in a two-part multicenter prospective study. In the first phase (randomized controlled trial, RCT), patients will undergo four rTMS sessions in a crossover design over 10 days, targeting (i) the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and (ii) the left angular gyrus (AG), as well as (iii & iv) their sham alternatives. In the second phase (longitudinal personalized trial), patients will receive personalized stimulations for 20 working days targeting the brain area that showed the best results in the RCT and will be randomly assigned to either active or sham intervention. The effects of rTMS on neurobehavioral and neurophysiological functioning in patients with DoC will be evaluated using clinical biomarkers of responsiveness (i.e., the Coma Recovery Scale-Revised; CRS-R), and electrophysiological biomarkers (e.g., power spectra, functional and effective connectivity, perturbational complexity index before and after intervention). Functional long-term outcomes will be assessed at 3 and 6 months post-intervention. Adverse events will be recorded during the treatment phase.
Discussion: This study seeks to identify which brain region (front or back) is best to stimulate for the treatment of patients with DoC using rTMS, and to characterize the neural correlates of its action regarding recovery of consciousness and functional outcome. In addition, we will define the responders' profile based on patients' characteristics and functional impairments; and develop biomarkers of responsiveness using EEG analysis according to the clinical responsiveness to the treatment.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Vitello, M. M., Rosenfelder, M. J., Cardone, P., Niimi, M., Willacker, L., Thibaut, A., Lejeune, N., Laureys, S., Bender, A., & Gosseries, O. (2023). A protocol for a multicenter randomized and personalized controlled trial using rTMS in patients with disorders of consciousness. Frontiers in Neurology, 14, 1216468. https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2023.1216468
2-year Impact Factor: 2.7|2023
Times cited: 3|2025-02-18
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q2
Keywords: Angular gyrus / Coma / Dorsolateral prefrontal cortex / Minimally conscious state / Non-invasive brain stimulation / Treatment / Unresponsive wakefulness syndrome / Vegetative state

A protocol for a multicenter randomized and personalized controlled trial using rTMS in patients with disorders of consciousness

A protocol for a multicenter randomized and personalized controlled trial using rTMS in patients with disorders of consciousness
DocumentInternational survey on the implementation of the European and American guidelines on disorders of consciousness2024

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, Vanessa Charland-Verville, 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-125
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
International survey on the implementation of the European and American guidelines on disorders of consciousness
Publication year: 2024
URL:
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00415-023-11956-z
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic procedures for patients with prolonged disorders of consciousness (pDoCs) vary significantly across countries and clinical settings, likely due to organizational factors (e.g., research vs. non-academic hospitals), expertise and availability of resources (e.g., financial and human). Two international guidelines, one from the European Academy of Neurology (EAN) and one from the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) in collaboration with the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine (ACRM) and the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR), were developed to facilitate consistent practice among professionals working with this challenging patient population. While the recommendations of both guidelines agree in principle, it remains an open issue how to implement them into clinical practice in the care pathway for patients with pDoCs. We conducted an online survey to explore health professional clinical practices related to the management of patients with pDoCs, and compare said practices with selected recommendations from both the guidelines. The survey revealed that while some recommendations are being followed, others are not and/or may require more honing/specificity to enhance their clinical utility. Particular attention should be given to the implementation of a multimodal assessment of residual consciousness, to the detection and treatment of pain, and to the impact of restrictions imposed by COVID-19 pandemics on the involvement of patients' families/representatives.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Farisco, M.
Secondary author(s):
Formisano, R., Gosseries, O., Kato, Y., Koboyashi, S., Laureys, S., Lejeune, N., Martial, C., Matar, A., Morrisey, A. M., Schnakers, C., Yakufujiang, M., Yamaki, T., Veeramuthu, V., Zandalasini, M., Zasler, N., Magliacano, A., Estraneo, A., IBIA Special Interest Group on DoCs
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Farisco, M., Formisano, R., Gosseries, O., Kato, Y., Koboyashi, S., Laureys, S., Lejeune, N., Martial, C., Matar, A., Morrisey, A. M., Schnakers, C., Yakufujiang, M., Yamaki, T., Veeramuthu, V., Zandalasini, M., Zasler, N., Magliacano, A., Estraneo, A., & IBIA Special Interest Group on DoCs (2024). International survey on the implementation of the European and American guidelines on disorders of consciousness. Journal of Neurology, 271(1), 395–407. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00415-023-11956-z
2-year Impact Factor: 4.8|2023
Impact factor notes: Impact factor not available yet for 2024
Times cited: 6|2025-02-19
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Coma / Disorders of consciousness / Vegetative states / Unresponsive wakefulness syndrome / Minimally conscious state / Cognitive-motor dissociation / Neuroethics / Bioethics / Ethics / Clinical guidelines

International survey on the implementation of the European and American guidelines on disorders of consciousness

International survey on the implementation of the European and American guidelines on disorders of consciousness
DocumentThe Self in Disorders of Consciousness2024

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, Vanessa Charland-Verville, 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-137
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
The Self in Disorders of Consciousness
Publication year: 2024
URL:
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-38391-5_16
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
The clinical examination of residual (self-) consciousness in severely brain-damaged patients remains challenging. This is because patients in coma, vegetative/unresponsive wakefulness, and minimally conscious states are by definition unable to communicate their subjective experiences. As a result, (self-) consciousness in this clinical population needs to be inferred. To date, this is feasible by presenting patients with attention-grabbing stimuli, such as their own name and own face, while measuring their brain activation with assisting technologies. Event-related potentials and functional neuroimaging studies using such stimuli are used to decipher the cognitive hierarchy of self-processing. Most studies show that brain responses are differential between unconscious and minimally conscious patients and that an atypically high level of brain activity in response to self-referential stimuli can work as a marker of favorable clinical outcome. Brain function during resting state further sheds light on the subjective counterpart of “unconstrained” cognition and has paved the way towards single-patient differentiation. Taken together, the experimental exploration of the “self” in pathological unconsciousness surpasses the functional localization of self-related cognition and suggests a dynamic system-level approach to the phenomenological complexity of subjectivity.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Copyright/Reproduction:
By permission
Language:
eng
Author:
Aubinet, C.
Secondary author(s):
Vanhaudenhuyse, A., Laureys, S., Demertzi, A.
Document type:
Book chapter
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Aubinet, C., Vanhaudenhuyse, A., Laureys, S., & Demertzi, A. (2024). The self in disorders of consciousness. In A. L. Mishara, M. Moskalewicz, M. A. Schwartz, & A. Kranjec (Eds.), Phenomenological neuropsychiatry (pp. 16). Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-38391-5_16
Indexed document: No
Keywords: Self-consciousness / Coma / Unresponsive wakefulness syndrome / Minimally conscious state / Event-related potentials / Functional neuroimaging
DocumentPharmacological therapies for early and long-term recovery in disorders of consciousness: Current knowledge and promising avenues2025

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-2018-261
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
261 - Phenomenological experience and neurophysiological correlates of shamanic trance in healthy individuals
Duration: 2019-07 - 2021-11
Researcher(s):
Olivia Gosseries
Institution(s): GIGA research center, GIGA-Consciousness, University of Liège (Belgium)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Gosseries, O.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Trance / Phenomenology / Electrophysiology / Consciousness / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-261.15
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Pharmacological therapies for early and long-term recovery in disorders of consciousness: Current knowledge and promising avenues
Publication year: 2025
URL:
https://doi.org/10.1080/14737175.2025.2500757
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Introduction: Disorders of consciousness (DoC) are characterized by impaired arousal and/or awareness, ranging from coma to unresponsive wakefulness syndrome, minimally conscious state, and cognitive motor dissociation. Pharmacological treatment options remain limited, complicated by the heterogeneity of etiologies, such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, and infections. The lack of rigorous clinical trials has led to off-label use of treatments, often without clear mechanistic understanding, posing challenges for effective patient care.
Areas covered: In this perspective, the authors report on key studies concerning the effectiveness of pharmacological interventions, including dopaminergic and GABAergic agents, antidepressants, statins, and anticonvulsants, in promoting recovery of consciousness in DoC.
Expert opinion: Robust longitudinal clinical trials are needed, with priority given to early subacute phase intervention. Outcomes should be better defined, considering immediate responses to medication while also increasing the emphasis on long-term quality of life. Unified functional and mechanistic frameworks are needed to guide research and foster collaboration. Furthermore, a shift toward personalized medicine would benefit this heterogeneous population. Moving forward, assessing the efficacy of more unconventional or 'paradoxical' pharmacological options in treatment plans will be essential. The authors also expect an increased use of AI tools to identify factors that best predict treatment responses.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Girard Pepin, R.
Secondary author(s):
Seyfzadeh, F., Williamson, D., Gosseries, O., Duclos, C.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Girard Pepin, R., Seyfzadeh, F., Williamson, D., Gosseries, O., & Duclos, C. (2025). Pharmacological therapies for early and long-term recovery in disorders of consciousness: Current knowledge and promising avenues. Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics, 25(6), 613–633. https://doi.org/10.1080/14737175.2025.2500757
2-year Impact Factor: 3.4|2023
Impact factor notes: Impact factor not available yet for 2025
Times cited: 0|2025-06-12
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q2
Keywords: Pharmacotherapy / Coma / Criticality / Disorders of consciousness / Mesocircuit / Minimally conscious state / Personalized medicine / Unresponsive wakefulness syndrome

Pharmacological therapies for early and long-term recovery in disorders of consciousness: Current knowledge and promising avenues

Pharmacological therapies for early and long-term recovery in disorders of consciousness: Current knowledge and promising avenues
DoccumentPharmacological therapies for early and long-term recovery in disorders of consciousness: Current knowledge and promising avenues2025

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-2020
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2020 Grants
Start date: 2021-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-344
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
344 - Evaluation of psychological traits, pain perception and muscular strength in trance experts
Duration: 2022-01
Researcher(s):
Olivia Gosseries, Paul Hollanders, Yannick Lafon
Institution(s): GIGA Research Center, GIGA-Consciousness, University of Liège (Belgium)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Language: eng
Notes:
Ongoing project
Author: Gosseries, O.
Secondary author(s):
Hollanders, P., Lafon, Y.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Trance / Personality traits / Pain perception / Muscular strenght / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-344.06
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Pharmacological therapies for early and long-term recovery in disorders of consciousness: Current knowledge and promising avenues
Publication year: 2025
URL:
https://doi.org/10.1080/14737175.2025.2500757
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Introduction: Disorders of consciousness (DoC) are characterized by impaired arousal and/or awareness, ranging from coma to unresponsive wakefulness syndrome, minimally conscious state, and cognitive motor dissociation. Pharmacological treatment options remain limited, complicated by the heterogeneity of etiologies, such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, and infections. The lack of rigorous clinical trials has led to off-label use of treatments, often without clear mechanistic understanding, posing challenges for effective patient care.
Areas covered: In this perspective, the authors report on key studies concerning the effectiveness of pharmacological interventions, including dopaminergic and GABAergic agents, antidepressants, statins, and anticonvulsants, in promoting recovery of consciousness in DoC.
Expert opinion: Robust longitudinal clinical trials are needed, with priority given to early subacute phase intervention. Outcomes should be better defined, considering immediate responses to medication while also increasing the emphasis on long-term quality of life. Unified functional and mechanistic frameworks are needed to guide research and foster collaboration. Furthermore, a shift toward personalized medicine would benefit this heterogeneous population. Moving forward, assessing the efficacy of more unconventional or 'paradoxical' pharmacological options in treatment plans will be essential. The authors also expect an increased use of AI tools to identify factors that best predict treatment responses.
Accessibility: Document does not exist in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Girard Pepin, R.
Secondary author(s):
Seyfzadeh, F., Williamson, D., Gosseries, O., Duclos, C.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Reference:
Girard Pepin, R., Seyfzadeh, F., Williamson, D., Gosseries, O., & Duclos, C. (2025). Pharmacological therapies for early and long-term recovery in disorders of consciousness: Current knowledge and promising avenues. Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics, 25(6), 613–633. https://doi.org/10.1080/14737175.2025.2500757
2-year Impact Factor: 3.4|2023
Impact factor notes: Impact factor not available yet for 2025
Times cited: 0|2025-06-17
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q2
Keywords: Pharmacotherapy / Coma / Criticality / Disorders of consciousness / Mesocircuit / Minimally conscious state / Personalized medicine / Unresponsive wakefulness syndrome