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DocumentConnecting brain and behavior in clinical neuroscience: A network approach2021

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-2020-284
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
284 - The whole is more than the sum of its parts: Elucidating the link between sleep quality and well-being by integrating cross-modal networks
Duration: 2021-09 - 2023-03
Researcher(s):
Tessa Blanken, Denny Borsboom
Institution(s): Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam (The Netherlands)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Article
Language: eng
Author:
Blanken, T.
Secondary author(s):
Borsboom, D.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Sleep / Well-being / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-284.02
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Connecting brain and behavior in clinical neuroscience: A network approach
Publication year: 2021
URL:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0149763421003250
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
In recent years, there has been an increase in applications of network science in many different fields. In clinical neuroscience and psychopathology, the developments and applications of network science have occurred mostly simultaneously, but without much collaboration between the two fields. The promise of integrating these network applications lies in a united framework to tackle one of the fundamental questions of our time: how to understand the link between brain and behavior. In the current overview, we bridge this gap by introducing conventions in both fields, highlighting similarities, and creating a common language that enables the exploitation of synergies. We provide research examples in autism research, as it accurately represents research lines in both network neuroscience and psychological networks. We integrate brain and behavior not only semantically, but also practically, by showcasing three methodological avenues that allow to combine networks of brain and behavioral data. As such, the current paper offers a stepping stone to further develop multi-modal networks and to integrate brain and behavior.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Blanken, T. F.
Secondary author(s):
Bathelt, J., Deserno, M. K., Voge, L., Borsboom, D., Douw, L.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Reference:
Blanken, T. F., Bathelt, J., Deserno, M. K., Voge, L., Borsboom, D., & Douw, L. (2021). Connecting brain and behavior in clinical neuroscience: A network approach. Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews, 130, 81-90. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.07.027
2-year Impact Factor: 9.052|2021
Times cited: 36|2025-09-20
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Brain / Behavior / Network science / Psychopathology / Clinical neuroscience / Graph theory

Connecting brain and behavior in clinical neuroscience: A network approach

Connecting brain and behavior in clinical neuroscience: A network approach
DocumentTet3 deletion in adult brain neurons of female mice results in anxiety-like behavior and cognitive impairments2022

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-2014
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2014 Grants
Start date: 2015-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2014-427
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
427 - Gliogenesis control of brain neuroplasticity, neurophysiology and cognitive function
Duration: 2015-09 - 2019-10
Researcher(s):
Luísa Alexandra Meireles Pinto, Ana Rita Machado dos Santos, António Maria Restolho Mateus Pinheiro, Cristina Joana Moreira Marques, Joana Sofia da Silva Correia, João Filipe Pedreira de Oliveira, João Miguel Bessa Peixoto, Nuno Dinis Alves, Patrícia Carvalho Patrício, Vítor Manuel da Silva Pinto
Institution(s): Life and Health Sciences Research Institute - ICVS, University of Minho and ICVS/3B's- Government Associate Laboratory, Braga (Portugal); Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra (Portugal)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Pinto, L.
Secondary author(s):
Santos, A., Pinho, A., Marques, A., Correia, J., Oliveira, J. F., Peixoto, J., Alves, N., Patrício, P., Pinto, V.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Astrogliogenesis / Neuroplasticity / Cognition / Electrophysiology / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2014-427.20
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Tet3 deletion in adult brain neurons of female mice results in anxiety-like behavior and cognitive impairments
Publication year: 2022
URL:
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12035-022-02883-7
Abstract/Results: TET enzymes (TET1-3) are dioxygenases that oxidize 5-methylcytosine (5mC) into 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) and are involved in the DNA demethylation process. In line with the observed 5hmC abundance in the brain, Tet genes are highly transcribed, with Tet3 being the predominant member. We have previously shown that Tet3 conditional deletion in the brain of male mice was associated with anxiety-like behavior and impairment in hippocampal-dependent spatial orientation. In the current study, we addressed the role of Tet3 in female mice and its impact on behavior, using in vivo conditional and inducible deletion from post-mitotic neurons. Our results indicate that conditional and inducible deletion of Tet3 in female mice increases anxiety-like behavior and impairs both spatial orientation and short-term memory. At the molecular level, we identified upregulation of immediate-early genes, particularly Npas4, in both the dorsal and ventral hippocampus and in the prefrontal cortex. This study shows that deletion of Tet3 in female mice differentially affects behavioral dimensions as opposed to Tet3 deletion in males, highlighting the importance of studying both sexes in behavioral studies. Moreover, it contributes to expand the knowledge on the role of epigenetic regulators in brain function and behavioral outcome.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Antunes, C.
Secondary author(s):
da Silva, J., Guerra-Gomes, S., Alves, N., Loureiro-Campos, E., Pinto, L., Marques, J.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Reference:
Antunes, C., da Silva, J., Guerra-Gomes, S., Alves, N., Loureiro-Campos, E., Pinto, L. & Marques, J. (2022). Tet3 deletion in adult brain neurons of female mice results in anxiety-like behavior and cognitive impairments. Molecular Neurobiology, 59(8), 4892-4901. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12035-022-02883-7
2-year Impact Factor: 5.100|2022
Times cited: 10|2025-09-24
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: TET enzymes / 5hmC / Anxiety / Epigenetics / DNA methylation / Brain

Tet3 deletion in adult brain neurons of female mice results in anxiety-like behavior and cognitive impairments

Tet3 deletion in adult brain neurons of female mice results in anxiety-like behavior and cognitive impairments
DocumentNeuroplasticity in F16 fighter jet pilots2023

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-112
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Neuroplasticity in F16 fighter jet pilots
Publication year: 2023
URL:
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2023.1082166/full
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Exposure to altered g-levels causes unusual sensorimotor demands that must be dealt with by the brain. This study aimed to investigate whether fighter pilots, who are exposed to frequent g-level transitions and high g-levels, show differential functional characteristics compared to matched controls, indicative of neuroplasticity. We acquired resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data to assess brain functional connectivity (FC) changes with increasing flight experience in pilots and to assess differences in FC between pilots and controls. We performed whole-brain exploratory and region-of-interest (ROI) analyses, with the right parietal operculum 2 (OP2) and the right angular gyrus (AG) as ROIs. Our results show positive correlations with flight experience in the left inferior and right middle frontal gyri, and in the right temporal pole. Negative correlations were observed in primary sensorimotor regions. We found decreased whole-brain functional connectivity of the left inferior frontal gyrus in fighter pilots compared to controls and this cluster showed decreased functional connectivity with the medial superior frontal gyrus. Functional connectivity increased between the right parietal operculum 2 and the left visual cortex, and between the right and left angular gyrus in pilots compared to controls. These findings suggest altered motor, vestibular, and multisensory processing in the brains of fighter pilots, possibly reflecting coping strategies to altered sensorimotor demands during flight. Altered functional connectivity in frontal areas may reflect adaptive cognitive strategies to cope with challenging conditions during flight. These findings provide novel insights into brain functional characteristics of fighter pilots, which may be of interest to humans traveling to space.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Radstake, W. E.
Secondary author(s):
Jillings, S.,, Laureys, S., Demertzi, A., Sunaert, S., Van Ombergen, A., Wuyts, F. L.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Radstake, W. E., Jillings, S., Laureys, S., Demertzi, A., Sunaert, S., Van Ombergen, A., & Wuyts, F. L. (2023). Neuroplasticity in F16 fighter jet pilots. Frontiers in Physiology, 14, 1082166. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2023.1082166
2-year Impact Factor: 3.2|2023
Times cited: 6|2025-09-26
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q2
Keywords: Resting state fMRI / Fighter pilots / Neuroplasticity / Gravity transitions / Brain / MRI

Neuroplasticity in F16 fighter jet pilots

Neuroplasticity in F16 fighter jet pilots
DocumentAdvancing (Neuro)entrepreneurship cognition research through resting-state fMRI: A methodological brief2023

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-114
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Advancing (Neuro)entrepreneurship cognition research through resting-state fMRI: A methodological brief
Publication year: 2023
URL:
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/10422587231170217
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Despite many calls, functional brain magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies are relatively rare in the domain of entrepreneurship research. This methodological brief presents the brain-imaging method of resting-state fMRI (rs-fMRI) and illustrates its application in neuroentrepreneurship for the first time. In contrast to the traditional task-based fMRI approach, rs-fMRI observes the brain in the absence of cognitive tasks or presentation of stimuli, which offers benefits for improving our understanding of the entrepreneurial mind. Here, we describe the method and provide methodological motivations for performing brain resting-state functional neuroimaging studies on entrepreneurs. In addition, we illustrate the use of seed-based correlation analysis, one of the most common analytical approaches for analyzing rs-fMRI data. In this illustration, we show that habitual entrepreneurs have increased functional connectivity between the insula (a region associated with cognitive flexibility) and the anterior prefrontal cortex (a key region for explorative choice) as compared to managers. This increased connectivity could help promote flexible behavior. Thus in brief, we provide an exemplar of a novel way to expand our understanding of the brain in the domain of entrepreneurship. We discuss possible directions for future research and challenges to be addressed to facilitate the inclusion of re-fMRI studies into neuroentrepreneurship.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Copyright/Reproduction:
By permission
Language:
eng
Author:
Ooms, F.
Secondary author(s):
Annen, J., Panda, R., Meunier, P., Tshibanda, L., Laureys, S., Pollack, J. M., Surlemont, B.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Ooms, F., Annen, J., Panda, R., Meunier, P., Tshibanda, L., Laureys, S., Pollack, J. M., & Surlemont, B. (2023). Advancing (Neuro)entrepreneurship cognition research through resting-state fMRI: A methodological brief. Entrepreneurship Theory and Practice, 48(2), 719-741. https://doi.org/10.1177/10422587231170217
2-year Impact Factor: 7.8|2023
Times cited: 7|2025-09-26
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Entrepreneur / Manager / Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) / Neuroentrepreneurship / Cognitive flexibility / Brain
DocumentFinal report - Finding the light: Neural and pharmacological evidence of pure 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: 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-2020-357
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
357 - Finding the light: Neural and pharmacological evidence of pure consciousness
Duration: 2021-10
Researcher(s):
Heleen Slagter, Sander Nieuwenhuis, Henk Barendregt, Ruben Laukkonen
Institution(s): Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (The Netherlands); Institute of Psychology, University of Leiden (The Netherlands)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Language: eng
Author:
Slagter, H.
Secondary author(s):
Nieuwenhuis, S., Barendregt, H., Laukkonen, R.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Pure consciousness / Predictive processing / Meditation / Brain / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-357.01
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Final report - Finding the light: Neural and pharmacological evidence of pure consciousness
Publication year: 2023
Abstract/Results:
ABSTRACT:
Background
Since the dawn of written history, contemplatives have reported voluntarily accessing states of pure consciousness where self, time, and space dissolve and all that remains is an omnipresent awareness. Moreover, in some cases, it is claimed that one can even voluntarily induce a state in which awareness ceases all together. Although such rare states have previously laid outside the purview of science, in recent years several publications in respectable journals have transcribed detailed reports by expert meditators of their experiences of altered awareness. Yet, how such states are neurally implemented is still very much unclear.
Aims & Method
To address this gap in knowledge, in this BIAL Foundation project, we ran two EEG experiments employing state-of-the-art methods to characterize advanced meditative states without disrupting them.
Results
First results show relatively preserved auditory and word processing during deep meditative states, including during cessation, but also unique neural signatures. For example, a state of cessation of consciousness was characterized by a breakdown in neural synchronization and was associated with a unique pattern of brain activity compared to rest or the brain taking a nap.
Conclusions
These results potentially have profound implications on our understanding of mental plasticity, and the extent to which humans can voluntarily shape their conscious experience.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Slagter, H.
Document type:
Final report
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Slagter, H. (2023). Final report - Finding the light: Neural and pharmacological evidence of pure consciousness.
Indexed document: No
Keywords: Pure consciousness / Predictive processing / Meditation / Cessation / Brain

Final report - Finding the light: Neural and pharmacological evidence of pure consciousness

Final report - Finding the light: Neural and pharmacological evidence of pure consciousness
DocumentTiming along the cardiac cycle modulates neural signals of reward-based learning2024

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

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

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

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2016-044
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
044 - Inducing and measuring plasticity in response control mechanisms in the human brain
Duration: 2017-10 - 2021-09
Researcher(s):
Alejandra Sel de Felipe, Matthew Rushworth
Institution(s): Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford (UK)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Author: Sel, A.
Secondary author(s):
Rushworth, M.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Cognitive control / Response inhibition / Cortical plasticity / Neurostimulation / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2016-044.06
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Timing along the cardiac cycle modulates neural signals of reward-based learning
Publication year: 2024
URL:
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-46921-5
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Natural fluctuations in cardiac activity modulate brain activity associated with sensory stimuli, as well as perceptual decisions about low magnitude, near-threshold stimuli. However, little is known about the relationship between fluctuations in heart activity and other internal representations. Here we investigate whether the cardiac cycle relates to learning-related internal representations - absolute and signed prediction errors. We combined machine learning techniques with electroencephalography with both simple, direct indices of task performance and computational model-derived indices of learning. Our results demonstrate that just as people are more sensitive to low magnitude, near-threshold sensory stimuli in certain cardiac phases, so are they more sensitive to low magnitude absolute prediction errors in the same cycles. However, this occurs even when the low magnitude prediction errors are associated with clearly suprathreshold sensory events. In addition, participants exhibiting stronger differences in their prediction error representations between cardiac cycles exhibited higher learning rates and greater task accuracy.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Fouragnan, E. F.
Secondary author(s):
Hosking, B., Cheung, Y., Prakash, B., Rushworth, M., Sel, A.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Reference:
Fouragnan, E. F., Hosking, B., Cheung, Y., Prakash, B., Rushworth, M., & Sel, A. (2024). Timing along the cardiac cycle modulates neural signals of reward-based learning. Nature Communications, 15(1), 2976. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-024-46921-5
2-year Impact Factor: 15.7|2024
Times cited: 8|2025-09-27
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Event-related potentials / Heart rate / Face recognition / Reaction-time / EEG-data / Perception / Attention / Brain / Meta analysis

Timing along the cardiac cycle modulates neural signals of reward-based learning

Timing along the cardiac cycle modulates neural signals of reward-based learning
DocumentThe paradox of the self-studying brain2025

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-2022
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2022 Grants
Start date: 2023-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2022-235
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
235 - SPARKS: Driving associative plasticity in the cortically blind brain to promote recovery of visual awareness
Duration: 2023-10
Researcher(s):
Simone Battaglia, Matteo Diano, Marco Tamietto
Institution(s): Department of Psychology, University of Turin (Italy)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Article
Language: eng
Notes:
Ongoing project
Author: Battaglia, S.
Secondary author(s):
Diano, M., Tamietto, M.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Visual perception / Neuroimaging / Visual perception / Blindsight / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2022-235.02
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
The paradox of the self-studying brain
Publication year: 2025
URL:
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.plrev.2024.12.009
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
The paradox of a brain trying to study itself presents a conundrum, raising questions about self-reference, consciousness, psychiatric disorders, and the boundaries of scientific inquiry. By which means can this complex organ shift the focus of study towards itself? We aim at unpacking the intricacies of this paradox. Historically, this question has been raised by philosophers under different frameworks. Thanks to the development of novel techniques to study the brain on a functional and structural level - as well as neurostimulation protocols that can modulate its activity in selected areas - we now possess advanced methods to progress this intricate inquiry. Nonetheless, the broader implications of the brain's pursuit of understanding itself remain unclear to this day. Ultimately, the need to employ both perception and introspection has led to different formulations of consciousness. This creates a challenge, as evidence supporting one formulation does not necessarily support the other. By deconstructing the paradoxical nature of self understanding - from a philosophical and neuroscientific point of view - we may gain insights into the human brain, which could lead to improved understanding of self-awareness and consciousness.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Battaglia, S.
Secondary author(s):
Servajean, P., Friston, K. J.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Reference:
Battaglia, S., Servajean, P., & Friston, K. J. (2025). The paradox of the self-studying brain. Physics of Life Reviews, 52, 197–204. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.plrev.2024.12.009
2-year Impact Factor: 14.3|2024
Impact factor notes: Impact factor not available yet for 2025
Times cited: 6|2025-09-27
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Theoretical neuroscience / Consciousness / Perception / Introspection / Neurophenomenology / Brain

The paradox of the self-studying brain

The paradox of the self-studying brain