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DocumentIntensive whole-brain 7T MRI case study of volitional control of brain activity in deep absorptive meditation states2024

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: Visitante: / 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-2020-099
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
099 - Beyond "mindfulness" and toward a modern science of meditative mastery and spiritual transformation
Duration: 2021-03 - 2024-02
Researcher(s):
Matthew Sacchet, Diego Pizzagalli, Remko van Lutterveld, Marta Bianciardi
Institution(s): Center for Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Research - CDASR, McLean Hospital, Belmont (USA)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Sacchet, M.
Secondary author(s):
Pizzagalli, D., van Lutterveld, R., Bianciardi, M.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Advanced meditation / Enlightenment / Neuroimaging / Mindfulness meditation / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-099.10
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Intensive whole-brain 7T MRI case study of volitional control of brain activity in deep absorptive meditation states
Publication year: 2024
URL:
Visitante: / https://doi.org/10.1093/cercor/bhad408
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Jhanas are profound states of mind achieved through advanced meditation, offering valuable insights into the nature of consciousness and tools to enhance well-being. Yet, its neurophenomenology remains limited due to methodological difficulties and the rarity of advanced meditation practitioners. We conducted a highly exploratory study to investigate the neurophenomenology of jhanas in an intensively sampled adept meditator case study (4 hr 7T fMRI collected in 27 sessions) who performed jhana meditation and rated specific aspects of experience immediately thereafter. Linear mixed models and correlations were used to examine relations among brain activity and jhana phenomenology. We identified distinctive patterns of brain activity in specific cortical, subcortical, brainstem, and cerebellar regions associated with jhana. Furthermore, we observed correlations between brain activity and phenomenological qualities of attention, jhanic qualities, and narrative processing, highlighting the distinct nature of jhanas compared to non-meditative states. Our study presents the most rigorous evidence yet that jhana practice deconstructs consciousness, offering unique insights into consciousness and significant implications for mental health and well-being.
Accessibility: Document exits in file
Copyright/Reproduction:
By permission
Language:
eng
Author:
Yang, W. F. Z.
Secondary author(s):
Chowdhury, A., Bianciardi, M., van Lutterveld, R., Sparby, T., Sacchet, M. D.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Percentiles:
93.56|2.80
Reference:
Yang, W. F. Z., Chowdhury, A., Bianciardi, M., van Lutterveld, R., Sparby, T., & Sacchet, M. D. (2024). Intensive whole-brain 7T MRI case study of volitional control of brain activity in deep absorptive meditation states. Cerebral Cortex, 34(1), bhad408. https://doi.org/10.1093/cercor/bhad408
Impact Factor: 2.9|2024
Times cited: 24|2026-02-16
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q2
Keywords: 7T functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) / Advanced meditation / Brainstem and thalamus / Consciousness / Neurophenomenology
DocumentFinal report - Consciousness beyond thought: Neural correlates of thoughtless awareness in long term meditators2023

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: Visitante: / 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-2016-349
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
349 - Consciousness beyond thought: Neural correlates of thoughtless awareness in long term meditators
Duration: 2017-05
Researcher(s):
Baruch Cahn, Jonas Kaplan
Institution(s): Brain and Creativity Institute, University of Southern California, Los Angeles (USA)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Language: eng
Author:
Cahn, B. R.
Secondary author(s):
Kaplan, J.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Meditation / Neurophenomenology / Thoughtless awareness / Consciousness / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2016-349.01
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Final report - Consciousness beyond thought: Neural correlates of thoughtless awareness in long term meditators
Publication year: 2023
Abstract/Results:
ABSTRACT:
Background
We assessed the neurocognitive mechanisms by which meditation practice affects subjective awareness of the thinking process, aiming to map the specific brain activation pattern subserving the experience of “not thinking” long reported in relation to meditative practices. We recruited long term meditation practitioners and matched controls and assessed brain activation associated with spontaneous thinking vs. meditation. Previous research had suggested that decreased DMN activation may underly “not thinking” states of meditation, and possibly increased theta and alpha power in the EEG.
Aims
1. To characterize the difference between meditation experts and controls in neural network activation patterns in thinking vs. meditation states
2. To characterize the neural network activation patterns specifically associated with the experience of thoughtless awareness in meditation experts.
Method
We recruited N=45 subjects for EEG and fMRI recordings, including 23 experienced meditators and 22 controls for whom we had high quality fMRI data. Each participant came to the lab on two separate days, one for EEG recordings during a series of tasks including psychometric measures and the following states of cognitive engagement: “rest,” thinking about difficult experiences, thinking about experience for which you feel gratitude, mindful attention to the breath, and open-awareness meditation. A second protocol involved participants engaging in thinking about everyday activities vs. engaging in open-awareness meditation while hearing occasional sets of meditation bells separated by 35sec. On the MRI day, participants engaged in a somewhat shortened protocol while having their fMRI signals recorded. The 3 initial states recorded were: “rest,” thinking about difficult experiences, and open-awareness meditation.
Results
Long term meditators reported greater capacity to experience narrative free awareness as well as increased mindfulness on psychometric assessment. EEG assessment of meditation in long term meditators indicates a decrease in alpha power is associated with the experience of narrative free awareness, indicating that the traditional findings of increased alpha frequency power in association with meditation may be related to aspects of relaxation but that the neurophenomenological differences related to thought-free states of consciousness may instead relate to decreases in the power of the alpha frequency band. Comparison between the groups on fMRI connectivity measures revealed that during open meditation, expert meditators showed significantly lower connectivity than controls between parietal default mode network (DMN) nodes and the dorsal anterior cingulate as well as generally increased intranetwork connectivity of the DMN and decreased intranetwork connectivity of the salience network (SN).
Conclusions
The capacity to experience narrative free awareness is enhanced by engaging in meditation. Our preliminary evidence suggests that decreases in alpha power may relate to this experience as well as, unexpectedly, increased within-network default mode network connectivity strength. Further exploration of the psychological benefits and potential harms to developing the skill of engaging in narrative-free awareness is warranted and likely to yield greater insights into brain-mind effects of meditation.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Cahn, B. R.
Secondary author(s):
Kaplan, J.
Document type:
Final report
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Cahn, B. R., & Kaplan, J. (2023). Final report - Consciousness beyond thought: Neural correlates of thoughtless awareness in long term meditators.
Indexed document: No
Keywords: Meditation / Consciousness / Narrative free awareness / Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) / Electroencephalogram (EEG)

Final report - Consciousness beyond thought: Neural correlates of thoughtless awareness in long term meditators

Final report - Consciousness beyond thought: Neural correlates of thoughtless awareness in long term meditators
DocumentThe nature of consciousness in anaesthesia2023

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: Visitante: / http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

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

Reference code: NDE-129
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
The nature of consciousness in anaesthesia
Publication year: 2023
URL:
Visitante: / https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjao.2023.100224
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Neuroscientists agree on the value of locating the source of consciousness within the brain. Anaesthesiologists are no exception, and have their own operational definition of consciousness based on phenomenological observations during anaesthesia. The full functional correlates of consciousness are yet to be precisely identified, however rapidly evolving progress in this scientific domain has yielded several theories that attempt to model the generation of consciousness. They have received variable support from experimental observations, including those involving anaesthesia and its ability to reversibly modulate different aspects of consciousness. Aside from the interest in a better understanding of the mechanisms of consciousness, exploring the functional tenets of the phenomenological consciousness states of general anaesthesia has the potential to ultimately improve patient management. It could facilitate the design of specific monitoring devices and approaches, aiming at reliably detecting each of the possible states of consciousness during an anaesthetic procedure, including total absence of mental content (unconsciousness), and internal awareness (sensation of self and internal thoughts) with or without conscious perception of the environment (connected or disconnected consciousness, respectively). Indeed, it must be noted that unresponsiveness is not sufficient to infer absence of connectedness or even absence of consciousness. This narrative review presents the current knowledge in this field from a system-level, underlining the contribution of anaesthesia studies in supporting theories of consciousness, and proposing directions for future research.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Montupil, J.
Secondary author(s):
Cardone, P., Staquet, C., Bonhomme, A., Defresne, A., Martial, C., Alnagger, N. L. N., Gosseries, O., Bonhomme, V.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Montupil, J., Cardone, P., Staquet, C., Bonhomme, A., Defresne, A., Martial, C., Alnagger, N. L. N., Gosseries, O., & Bonhomme, V. (2023). The nature of consciousness in anaesthesia. BJA Open, 8, 100224. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjao.2023.100224
Impact Factor: N/A
Times cited: N/A
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: N/A
Keywords: Brain function / Consciousness / General anaesthesia / Mechanisms / Theories

The nature of consciousness in anaesthesia

The nature of consciousness in anaesthesia
DocumentChinese translation and validation of the Near-Death Experience Content scale2024

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: Visitante: / http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

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

Reference code: NDE-130
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Chinese translation and validation of the Near-Death Experience Content scale
Publication year: 2024
URL:
Visitante: / https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1201416/full
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Introduction:
In recent years, a growing number of near-death experience (NDE) testimonies have been collected worldwide due to an increasing interest in research on this phenomenon. China has many patients who survive life-threatening situations, leaving over much data on NDEs to be collected for research. In the historical context of Eastern civilization, many mentally controlled practices in China can also lead to “NDEs-like” (e.g., meditation). This study aimed (1) to translate and validate the recently developed Near-Death Experience Content (NDE-C) scale into Chinese and (2) to quantify and identify NDEs and NDEs-like in China with this new Chinese version of the NDE-C scale.
Methods:
Here, we presented the work that had been performed to translate the NDE-C scale into Chinese and validated this version on 79 NDE testimonies.
Results:
Brislin’s back-translation model was performed to translate a Chinese version of the NDE-C scale and internal consistency (the Cronbach’s a value for the total group = 0.846) as well as the confirmatory factor analysis was conducted.
Discussion:
Currently, the Chinese version of the NDE-C scale is ready for use in research practice in the context of Eastern culture, to screen people who have experienced an NDEs(-like) and to quantify their subjective experience, promoting further NDEs-related research in China.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Li, Y.
Secondary author(s):
Chen, Y., Martial, C., Shen, M., Cassol, H., Yu, J., Zhou, X., Ni, C., Li, M., Hu, N., Gosseries, O., Laureys, S., Di, H.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Percentiles:
0.00|0.00
Reference:
Li, Y., Chen, Y., Martial, C., Shen, M., Cassol, H., Yu, J., Zhou, X., Ni, C., Li, M., Hu, N., Gosseries, O., Laureys, S., & Di, H. (2024). Chinese translation and validation of the Near-Death Experience Content scale. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 14, 1201416. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1201416
Impact Factor: 3.2|2024
Times cited: 0|2026-02-16
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q2
Keywords: Near-death experience / Scale / Near-death-like experience / Consciousness / Phenomenology

Chinese translation and validation of the Near-Death Experience Content scale

Chinese translation and validation of the Near-Death Experience Content scale
DocumentFinal report - Zooming in on the true neural mechanisms of phenomenal 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: Visitante: / 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-2020-100
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
100 - Zooming in on the true neural mechanisms of phenomenal consciousness
Duration: 2021-04 - 2024-02
Researcher(s):
Simon van Gaal, Andres Canales-Johnson, Robin Ince, Srivas Chennu
Institution(s): Amsterdam, Brain and Cognition - ABC, University of Amsterdam (The Netherlands); Cambridge University (UK)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
van Gaal, S.
Secondary author(s):
Canales-Johnson, A., Ince, R., Chennu, S.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Phenomenology of consciousness / Neurodynamics of consciousness / Contents of consciousness / Integrated information theory of consciousness / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-100.01
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Final report - Zooming in on the true neural mechanisms of phenomenal consciousness
Publication year: 2024
Abstract/Results:
ABSTRACT:
Background
In the search for the neural basis of conscious experience, perception and report are typically confounded as neural activity is recorded while participants explicitly report what they experience.
Aims
To disentangle perception from report using eye-movement analysis techniques based on convolutional neural networks and neurodynamical analyses based on information theory.
Method
We use a bistable visual stimulus that instantiates two well-known properties of conscious perception: integration and differentiation. Observers either perceive the stimulus as one integrated unitary object or as two differentiated objects that are clearly distinct from each other.
Results
Electroencephalograpy measures of integration and differentiation closely follow perceptual experience. We observed increased information integration between anterior to posterior electrodes prior to a switch to the integrated percept, and higher information differentiation of anterior signals leading up to reporting the differentiated percept. Information integration was linked to perception and even observed in a no-report condition (perceptual transitions were inferred from eye-movements). In contrast, the link between neural differentiation and perception was observed solely in the active report condition.
Conclusions
Perception and report require distinct levels of anterior-posterior network communication and anterior information differentiation: while front to back directed information is associated with changes in the content of perception, regardless of report, frontal information differentiation was absent in no-report conditions, and therefore has a different role not directly linked to perception per se.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
van Gaal, S.
Secondary author(s):
Canales-Johnson, A., Ince, R., Chennu, S.
Document type:
Final report
Number of reproductions:
1
Reference:
van Gaal, S., Canales-Johnson, A., Ince, R., & Chennu, S. (2024). Final report - Zooming in on the true neural mechanisms of phenomenal consciousness.
Indexed document: No
Keywords: Consciousness / Perception / Information theory / Report

Final report - Zooming in on the true neural mechanisms of phenomenal consciousness

Final report - Zooming in on the true neural mechanisms of phenomenal consciousness
DocumentInfluencing dreams through sensory stimulation: A systematic review2024

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: Visitante: / 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-2020-091
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
091 - Mentation report analysis across distinct states of consciousness: A linguistic approach
Duration: 2021-02 - 2024-02
Researcher(s):
Giulio Bernardi, Giulia Avvenuti, Michele Bellesi, Valentina Elce, Emanuela Merelli
Institution(s): IMT School for Advanced Studies, Lucca (Italy); University of Camerino (Italy)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Bernardi, G.
Secondary author(s):
Avvenuti, G., Bellesi, M., Elce, V., Merelli, E.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Dreams / Daydreaming / Language / Consciousness / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-091.03
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Influencing dreams through sensory stimulation: A systematic review
Publication year: 2024
URL:
Visitante: / https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1087079224000121?via%3Dihub
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Sleep is typically considered a state of disconnection from the environment, yet instances of external sensory stimuli influencing dreams have been reported for centuries. Explaining this phenomenon could provide valuable insight into dreams' generative and functional mechanisms, the factors that promote sleep continuity, and the processes that underlie conscious awareness. Moreover, harnessing sensory stimuli for dream engineering could benefit individuals suffering from dream-related alterations. This PRISMA-compliant systematic review assessed the current evidence concerning the influence of sensory stimulation on sleep mentation. We included 51 publications, of which 21 focused on auditory stimulation, ten on somatosensory stimulation, eight on olfactory stimulation, four on visual stimulation, two on vestibular stimulation, and one on multimodal stimulation. Furthermore, nine references explored conditioned associative stimulation: six focused on targeted memory reactivation protocols and three on targeted lucid reactivation protocols. The reported frequency of stimulus-dependent dream changes across studies ranged from 0 to ~80%, likely reflecting a considerable heterogeneity of definitions and methodological approaches. Our findings highlight a lack of comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms, functions, and neurophysiological correlates of stimulus-dependent dream changes. We suggest that a paradigm shift is required for meaningful progress in this field.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Salvesen, L.
Secondary author(s):
Capriglia, E., Dresler, M., Bernardi, G.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Percentiles:
93.58|2.49
Reference:
Salvesen, L., Capriglia, E., Dresler, M., & Bernardi, G. (2024). Influencing dreams through sensory stimulation: A systematic review. Sleep Medicine Reviews, 74, 101908. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smrv.2024.101908
Impact Factor: 9.7|2024
Times cited: 18|2026-02-16
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Sleep / Dreaming / Consciousness / Sensory stimulation / Sensory processing / Incorporation / Modulation

Influencing dreams through sensory stimulation: A systematic review

Influencing dreams through sensory stimulation: A systematic review
DocumentFinal report - Distinct psychophysiological profiles associated with experiencing the pain of others2022

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: Visitante: / 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-2018-125
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
125 - Distinct psychophysiological profiles associated with experiencing the pain of others
Duration: 2019-03 - 2024-03
Researcher(s):
Jamie Ward, Mengze Li
Institution(s): School of Psychology, University of Sussex (UK)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progrees report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Ward, J.
Secondary author(s):
Li, M.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Vicarious pain / Consciousness / Interoception / Unusual experiences / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-125.01
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Final report - Distinct psychophysiological profiles associated with experiencing the pain of others
Publication year: 2022
Abstract/Results:
Abstract
Background
The notion of shared neural representations for both physical pain and vicarious pain has been very influential but also controversial. A possible resolution lies in individual differences and here we bring to bear a novel method for identifying individual differences in vicarious pain such that some people (around a quarter of the population) report conscious pain-like experiences when observing pain in others.
Aims
We aim to determine, using multivariate fMRI and psychophysiological measures, whether vicarious pain and physical pain share neural resources considering, for the first time, individual differences in the tendency to report experiencing the pain of others.
Method
Our vicarious pain questionnaire (VPQ) was used to identify three groups of participants (sensory-localised vicarious pain, affective-general vicarious pain; controls) who were then selected to take part in neuroimaging and psychophysiological investigations that contrast physical pain (mild electric shocks) and vicarious pain. The latter was induced in one of two ways: a cue indicating a shock to another person or images of physical pain to the hands/feet.
Results & Conclusions
Multivariate and univariate analyses support the conclusion that there are shared neural resources between vicarious pain and physical pain. We observe these results across all groups (i.e., they are not limited conscious experiences of pain). Group differences are observed in behavioral ratings (people with vicarious pain experiences show less self-other discrepancy between real and imagined pain) and when applying a biomarker of physical pain (the NPS, neurologic pain signature) to mere observation of pain (versus no-pain) images.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Ward, J.
Document type:
Final report
Number of reproductions:
1
Reference:
Ward, J. (2022). Final report - Distinct psychophysiological profiles associated with experiencing the pain of others.
Indexed document: No
Keywords: Vicarious pain / Consciousness / Interoception / Unusual experiences

Final report - Distinct psychophysiological profiles associated with experiencing the pain of others

Final report - Distinct psychophysiological profiles associated with experiencing the pain of others
DocumentNear-death experiences: What do we know?2023

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: Visitante: / 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-2022-065
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
065 - Unintended returns of awareness during cardiopulmonary resuscitation
Duration: 2023-02
Researcher(s):
Charlotte Martial, Pauline Fritz, Alice Clerget
Institution(s): Coma Science Group, University of Liège (Belgium)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Articles
Language: eng
Notes:
Ongoing project
Author: Martial, C.
Secondary author(s):
Fritz, P., Clerget, A.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Disconnected consciousness / Connected consciousness / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2022-065.06
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Near-death experiences: What do we know?
Publication year: 2023
URL:
Visitante: / https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-50563-8_13
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
The notion that death represents a passing to an afterlife, where we are reunited with loved ones and live eternally in a utopian paradise, is common in the anecdotal reports of people who have encountered a “near-death experience” (NDE). These experiences are usually portrayed as being extremely pleasant including features such as a feeling of peacefulness, the vision of a tunnel leading to a brilliant light, the sensation of leaving the body, or the experience of a life review. NDEs are increasingly being reported as a clearly identifiable physiological and psychological reality of clinical and scientific significance. The definition and causes of the phenomenon as well as the identification of NDE experiencers are still matters of debate. The phenomenon has been thoroughly portrayed by the media, but the science of NDEs is rather recent and still lacking rigorous experimental data and reproducible, controlled experiments. It seems that the most appropriate theories to explain the phenomenon tend to integrate both psychological and neurobiological mechanisms. It is remarkable to observe the richness and intensity of the memory despite a critical cerebral context. This challenges our conception of consciousness and offers a unique opportunity to better understand the neural correlates of consciousness. In this chapter, we will attempt to describe NDEs and how to identify them. We will also briefly discuss the NDE experiencers’ characteristics. Finally, we will address the main current explicative models and the science of NDEs.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Fritz, P.
Secondary author(s):
Lejeune, N., Cassol, H., Laureys, S., Gosseries, O., Martial, C.
Document type:
Book chapter
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Fritz, P., Lejeune, N., Cassol., H., Laureys, S., Gosseries, O., & Martial, C. (2023). Near-death experiences: What do we know? In C. Schnakers & S. Laureys (Eds.), Coma and Disorders of Consciousness (3rd ed., pp. 287–311). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-50563-8_13
Indexed document: No
Keywords: Near-death experiences / Consciousness / Pychological mechanisms / Neurobiological mechanisms

Near-death experiences: What do we know?

Near-death experiences: What do we know?
DocumentVolitional mental absorption in meditation: Toward a scientific understanding of advanced concentrative absorption meditation and the case of jhana2024

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: Visitante: / 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-2020-099
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
099 - Beyond "mindfulness" and toward a modern science of meditative mastery and spiritual transformation
Duration: 2021-03 - 2024-02
Researcher(s):
Matthew Sacchet, Diego Pizzagalli, Remko van Lutterveld, Marta Bianciardi
Institution(s): Center for Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Research - CDASR, McLean Hospital, Belmont (USA)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Sacchet, M.
Secondary author(s):
Pizzagalli, D., van Lutterveld, R., Bianciardi, M.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Advanced meditation / Enlightenment / Neuroimaging / Mindfulness meditation / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-099.13
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Volitional mental absorption in meditation: Toward a scientific understanding of advanced concentrative absorption meditation and the case of jhana
Publication year: 2024
URL:
Visitante: / https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31223
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Meditation has been integral to human culture for millennia, deeply rooted in various spiritual and contemplative traditions. While the field of contemplative science has made significant steps toward understanding the effects of meditation on health and well-being, there has been little study of advanced meditative states, including those achieved through intense concentration and absorption. We refer to these types of states as advanced concentrative absorption meditation (ACAM), characterized by absorption with the meditation object leading to states of heightened attention, clarity, energy, effortlessness, and bliss. This review focuses on a type of ACAM known as jhana (ACAM-J) due to its well-documented history, systematic practice approach, recurring phenomenological themes, and growing popularity among contemplative scientists and more generally in media and society. ACAM-J encompasses eight layers of deep concentration, awareness, and internal experiences. Here, we describe the phenomenology of ACAM-J and present evidence from phenomenological and neuroscientific studies that highlight their potential
applications in contemplative practices, psychological sciences, and therapeutics. We additionally propose theoretical ACAM-J frameworks grounded in current cognitive neuroscientific understanding of meditation and ancient contemplative traditions. We aim to stimulate further research on ACAM more broadly, encompassing advanced meditation including meditative development
and meditative endpoints. Studying advanced meditation including ACAM, and specific practices such as ACAM-J, can potentially revolutionize our understanding of consciousness and applications for mental health.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Yang, W. F.
Secondary author(s):
Sparby, T., Wright, M., Kim, E., Sacchet, M. D.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Percentiles:
91.62|2.60
Reference:
Yang, W. F., Sparby, T., Wright, M., Kim, E., & Sacchet, M. D. (2024). Volitional mental absorption in meditation: Toward a scientific understanding of advanced concentrative absorption meditation and the case of jhana. Heliyon, 10(10), e31223. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31223
Impact Factor: 3.6|2024
Times cited: 23|2026-02-16
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Advanced meditation / Advanced concentrative absorption meditation / Jhana / Neuroimaging / MRI / Consciousness / Mental health / Human flourishing

Volitional mental absorption in meditation: Toward a scientific understanding of advanced concentrative absorption meditation and the case of jhana

Volitional mental absorption in meditation: Toward a scientific understanding of advanced concentrative absorption meditation and the case of jhana
DocumentWithin-subject reliability of brain networks during advanced meditation: An intensively sampled 7 Tesla MRI case study2024

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: Visitante: / 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-2020-099
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
099 - Beyond "mindfulness" and toward a modern science of meditative mastery and spiritual transformation
Duration: 2021-03 - 2024-02
Researcher(s):
Matthew Sacchet, Diego Pizzagalli, Remko van Lutterveld, Marta Bianciardi
Institution(s): Center for Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Research - CDASR, McLean Hospital, Belmont (USA)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Sacchet, M.
Secondary author(s):
Pizzagalli, D., van Lutterveld, R., Bianciardi, M.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Advanced meditation / Enlightenment / Neuroimaging / Mindfulness meditation / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-099.14
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Within-subject reliability of brain networks during advanced meditation: An intensively sampled 7 Tesla MRI case study
Publication year: 2024
URL:
Visitante: / https://doi.org/10.1002/hbm.26666
Abstract/Results: Abstract:
Advanced meditation such as jhana meditation can produce various altered states of consciousness (jhanas) and cultivate rewarding psychological qualities including joy, peace, compassion, and attentional stability. Mapping the neurobiological substrates of jhana meditation can inform the development and application of advanced meditation to enhance well-being. Only two prior studies have attempted to investigate the
neural correlates of jhana meditation, and the rarity of adept practitioners has largely restricted the size and extent of these studies. Therefore, examining the consistency and reliability of observed brain responses associated with jhana meditation can be valuable. In this study, we aimed to characterize functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) reliability within a single subject over repeated runs in canonical brain networks
during jhana meditation performed by an adept practitioner over 5 days (27 fMRI runs) inside an ultra-high field 7 Tesla MRI scanner. We found that thalamus and several cortical networks, that is, the somatomotor, limbic, default-mode, control, and temporo-parietal, demonstrated good within-subject reliability across all jhanas. Additionally, we found that several other relevant brain networks (e.g., attention, salience) showed noticeable increases in reliability when fMRI measurements were adjusted for variability in self-reported phenomenology related to jhana meditation. Overall, we present a preliminary template of reliable brain areas likely underpinning core neurocognitive elements of jhana meditation, and highlight the utility of neurophenomenological experimental designs for better characterizing neuronal variability associated with advanced meditative states.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Ganesan, S.
Secondary author(s):
Yang, W. F. Z., Chowdhury, A., Zalesky, A., Sacchet, M. D.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Percentiles:
97.79|4.39
Reference:
Ganesan, S., Yang, W. F. Z., Chowdhury, A., Zalesky, A., & Sacchet, M. D. (2024). Within-subject reliability of brain networks during advanced meditation: An intensively sampled 7 Tesla MRI case study. Human Brain Mapping, 45(7), e26666. https://doi.org/10.1002/hbm.26666
Impact Factor: 3.3|2024
Times cited: 17|2026-02-16
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: 7 T functional MRI / Advanced meditation / Consciousness / Intraclass correlation (ICC) / Jhana / Neurophenomenology / Within-subject reliability

Within-subject reliability of brain networks during advanced meditation: An intensively sampled 7 Tesla MRI case study

Within-subject reliability of brain networks during advanced meditation: An intensively sampled 7 Tesla MRI case study
DocumentEEG signature of near-death-like experiences during syncope-induced periods of unresponsiveness2024

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: Visitante: / 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-2022-065
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
065 - Unintended returns of awareness during cardiopulmonary resuscitation
Duration: 2023-02
Researcher(s):
Charlotte Martial, Pauline Fritz, Alice Clerget
Institution(s): Coma Science Group, University of Liège (Belgium)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Articles
Language: eng
Notes:
Ongoing project
Author: Martial, C.
Secondary author(s):
Fritz, P., Clerget, A.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Disconnected consciousness / Connected consciousness / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2022-065.07
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
EEG signature of near-death-like experiences during syncope-induced periods of unresponsiveness
Publication year: 2024
URL:
Visitante: / https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuroimage.2024.120759
Abstract/Results: Abstract:
During fainting, disconnected consciousness may emerge in the form of dream-like experiences. Characterized by extra-ordinary and sometimes mystical features, these subjective experiences have been associated to near-death-like experiences (NDEs-like). We here aim to assess brain activity during syncope-induced disconnected consciousness by means of high-density EEG monitoring. Transient loss of consciousness and unresponsiveness were induced in 27 healthy volunteers through hyperventilation, orthostasis, and Valsalva maneuvers. Upon awakening, subjects were asked to report memories, if any. The Greyson NDE scale was used to evaluate the potential phenomenological content experienced during the syncope-induced periods of unresponsiveness. EEG source reconstruction assessed cortical activations during fainting, which were regressed out
with subjective reports collected upon recovery of normal consciousness. We also conducted functional connectivity, graph-theoretic and complexity analyses. High quality high-density EEG data were obtained in 22 volunteers during syncope and unresponsiveness (lasting 22±8sec). NDE-like features (Greyson NDE scale total score =7/32) were apparent for eight volunteers and characterized by higher activity in delta, theta and beta2 bands in temporal and frontal regions. The richness of the NDE-like content was associated with delta, theta and beta2 bands cortical current densities, in temporal, parietal and frontal lobes, including insula, right temporoparietal junction, and cingulate cortex. Our analyses also revealed a higher complexity and that networks related to delta, theta, and beta2 bands were characterized by a higher overall connectivity paralleled by a
higher segregation (i.e., local efficiency) and a higher integration (i.e., global efficiency) for the NDE-like group compared to the non-NDE-like group. Fainting-induced NDE-like episodes seem to be sustained by surges of neural activity representing promising markers of disconnected consciousness.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Martial, C.
Secondary author(s):
Piarulli, A., Gosseries, O., Cassol, H., Ledoux, D., Charland-Verville, V., Laureys, S.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Percentiles:
90.87|2.34
Reference:
Martial, C., Piarulli, A., Gosseries, O., Cassol, H., Ledoux, D., Charland-Verville, V., & Laureys, S. (2024). EEG signature of near-death-like experiences during syncope-induced periods of unresponsiveness. NeuroImage, 120759. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuroimage.2024.120759
Impact Factor: 4.5|2024
Times cited: 8|2026-02-16
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Near-death experience / Syncope / EEG / Consciousness / Unresponsiveness

EEG signature of near-death-like experiences during syncope-induced periods of unresponsiveness

EEG signature of near-death-like experiences during syncope-induced periods of unresponsiveness
DocumentNeuromodulation and meditation: A review and synthesis toward promoting well-being and understanding consciousness and brain2024

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: Visitante: / 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-2020-099
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
099 - Beyond "mindfulness" and toward a modern science of meditative mastery and spiritual transformation
Duration: 2021-03 - 2024-02
Researcher(s):
Matthew Sacchet, Diego Pizzagalli, Remko van Lutterveld, Marta Bianciardi
Institution(s): Center for Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Research - CDASR, McLean Hospital, Belmont (USA)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Sacchet, M.
Secondary author(s):
Pizzagalli, D., van Lutterveld, R., Bianciardi, M.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Advanced meditation / Enlightenment / Neuroimaging / Mindfulness meditation / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-099.16
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Neuromodulation and meditation: A review and synthesis toward promoting well-being and understanding consciousness and brain
Publication year: 2024
URL:
Visitante: / https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105862
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
The neuroscience of meditation is providing insight into meditation’s beneficial effects on well-being and informing understanding of consciousness. However, further research is needed to explicate mechanisms linking brain activity and meditation. Non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) presents a promising approach for causally investigating neural mechanisms of meditation. Prior NIBS-meditation research has predominantly targeted frontal and parietal cortices suggesting that it might be possible to boost the behavioral and neural effects of meditation with NIBS. Moreover, NIBS has revealed distinct neural signatures in long-term meditators. Nonetheless, methodological variations in NIBS-meditation research contributes to challenges for definitive interpretation of previous results. Future NIBS studies should further investigate core substrates of meditation, including specific brain networks and oscillations, and causal neural mechanisms of advanced meditation. Overall, NIBS-meditation research holds promise for enhancing meditation-based interventions in support of well-being and resilience in both non-clinical and clinical populations, and for uncovering the brain-mind mechanisms of meditation and consciousness.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Abellaneda-Pérez, K.
Secondary author(s):
Potash, R. M., Pascual-Leone, A., Sacchet, M. D.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Percentiles:
84.74|1.73
Reference:
Abellaneda-Pérez, K., Potash, R. M., Pascual-Leone, A., & Sacchet, M. D. (2024). Neuromodulation and meditation: A review and synthesis toward promoting well-being and understanding consciousness and brain. Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews, 166, 105862. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105862
Impact Factor: 7.9|2024
Times cited: 17|2026-02-16
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Meditation / Mindfulness / Advanced meditation / Functional neuroimaging / Electroencephalography / Non-invasive brain stimulation / Well-being / Consciousness

Neuromodulation and meditation: A review and synthesis toward promoting well-being and understanding consciousness and brain

Neuromodulation and meditation: A review and synthesis toward promoting well-being and understanding consciousness and brain
DocumentExploring the significance of cognitive motor dissociation on patient outcome in acute 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: Visitante: / http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

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

Reference code: NDE-138
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Exploring the significance of cognitive motor dissociation on patient outcome in acute disorders of consciousness
Publication year: 2024
URL:
Visitante: / https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0044-1785507
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Cognitive motor dissociation (CMD) is characterized by a dissociation between volitional brain responses and motor control, detectable only through techniques such as electroencephalography (EEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging. Hence, it has recently emerged as a major challenge in the assessment of patients with disorders of consciousness. Specifically, this review focuses on the prognostic implications of CMD detection during the acute stage of brain injury. CMD patients were identified in each diagnostic category (coma, unresponsive wakefulness syndrome/vegetative state, minimally conscious state minus) with a relatively similar prevalence of around 20%. Current knowledge tends to indicate that the diagnosis of CMD in the acute phase often predicts a more favorable clinical outcome compared with other unresponsive non-CMD patients. Nevertheless, the review underscores the limited research in this domain, probably at least partially explained by its nascent nature and the lack of uniformity in the nomenclature for CMD-related disorders, hindering the impact of the literature in the field.
Accessibility: Document does not exist in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Lejeune, N.
Secondary author(s):
Fritz, P., Cardone, P., Szymkowicz, E., Vitello, M. M., Martial, C., Thibaut, A., Gosseries, O.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Percentiles:
46.80|0.59
Reference:
Lejeune, N., Fritz, P., Cardone, P., Szymkowicz, E., Vitello, M. M., Martial, C., Thibaut, A., & Gosseries, O. (2024). Exploring the significance of cognitive motor dissociation on patient outcome in acute disorders of consciousness. Seminars in Neurology, 44(3), 271–280. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0044-1785507
Impact Factor: 2|2024
Times cited: 2|2026-02-16
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q3
Keywords: Coma / Consciousness / Diagnosis / Prognosis / Outcome / Brain imaging / Cognitive motor dissociation
DocumentFrom grief to growth: Uniting ancient wisdom and cutting-edge technology to probe grief and absorption in the psychomanteum2025

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: Visitante: / 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-2018-366
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
366 - Transpersonal imagery and bereavement: The psychomanteum and virtual reality
Duration: 2021-05 - 2024-09
Researcher(s):
Marilyn Schlitz, Dorote Lucci, Donna Dulo, Kelly Yi, Lincoln Nguyen
Institution(s): Institute of Transpersonal Psychology Foundation, Palo Alto, California (USA); Sofia University, Palo Alto, California (USA)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress Report
Final Report
Article
Language: eng
Author:
Schlitz, M.
Secondary author(s):
Lucci, D., Dulo, D., Yi, K., Nguyen, L.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Virtual reality / Mental health / Embodiment / Psychomantium / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-366.02
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
From grief to growth: Uniting ancient wisdom and cutting-edge technology to probe grief and absorption in the psychomanteum
Publication year: 2025
URL:
Visitante: / https://doi.org/10.51327/UKBH5231
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
This study investigated two strategies to induce after death communications on self-reported grief and absorption. the first involved the psychomanteum, a sensory deprivation chamber. the second involved virtual reality (vr) experiences designed to emulate key elements of the chamber. both interventions involved guided suggestions to experience invisible others, including departed loved ones, spirits, and ghostly sensations. a total of 92 people completed all pre- and post-measures. there were three principal aims for this study. 1) evaluate the impact of the psychomanteum on grief and absorption pre- and post-intervention; 2) examine the correlation of absorption and grief pre- and post-intervention; 3) measure differences in physical chamber and vr on grief and absorption. for aim 1, a paired samples t-test found a significant effect for absorption pre and post assessments at the level of p< .001. no effect was found for grief. aim 2 was assessed with a persons r that showed a significant correlation between grief and absorption (p. 019). for aim 3, no significant effect was seen between the physical chamber and the vr experience. based on a language use analysis, participants exhibited a range of experiences that were characterized as ”authentic” and transformative. this innovative approach bridges ancient and advanced technologies.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Schlitz, M.
Secondary author(s):
Lucci, D., Thompson, J., Tarrant, J., Guem, S., Patel, A., Zvan, P.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Percentiles:
92.29|9.71
Reference:
Schlitz, M., Lucci, D., Thompson, J., Tarrant, J., Guem, S., Patel, A., Zvan, P., & Olmstead, E. (2025). From grief to growth: Uniting ancient wisdom and cutting-edge technology to probe grief and absorption in the psychomanteum. Journal of Management, Spirituality & Religion, 22(6), 639–666. https://doi.org/10.51327/UKBH5231
Impact Factor: 1.7|2025
Times cited: 1|2026-07-21
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: N/Y
Keywords: Grief / Virtual reality / Consciousness / Psychomanteum / Absorption / Well-being

From grief to growth: Uniting ancient wisdom and cutting-edge technology to probe grief and absorption in the psychomanteum

From grief to growth: Uniting ancient wisdom and cutting-edge technology to probe grief and absorption in the psychomanteum
DocumentDynamic brain states underlying advanced concentrative absorption meditation: A 7T fMRI intensive case study2025

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: Visitante: / 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-2020-099
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
099 - Beyond "mindfulness" and toward a modern science of meditative mastery and spiritual transformation
Duration: 2021-03 - 2024-02
Researcher(s):
Matthew Sacchet, Diego Pizzagalli, Remko van Lutterveld, Marta Bianciardi
Institution(s): Center for Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Research - CDASR, McLean Hospital, Belmont (USA)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Sacchet, M.
Secondary author(s):
Pizzagalli, D., van Lutterveld, R., Bianciardi, M.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Advanced meditation / Enlightenment / Neuroimaging / Mindfulness meditation / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-099.17
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Dynamic brain states underlying advanced concentrative absorption meditation: A 7T fMRI intensive case study
Publication year: 2025
URL:
Visitante: / https://doi.org/10.1162/netn_a_00432
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Advanced meditation consists of states and stages of practice that unfold with mastery and time. Dynamic functional connectivity (dFC) analysis of fMRI could identify brain states underlying advanced meditation. We conducted an intensive dFC case study of a meditator who completed 27 runs of jhana advanced absorptive concentration meditation (ACAM-J), concurrently with 7-Tesla fMRI and phenomenological reporting. We identified three brain states that marked differences between ACAM-J and non-meditative control conditions. These states were characterized as a DMN-anticorrelated brain state, a hyperconnected brain state, and a sparsely connected brain state. Our analyses indicate higher prevalence of the DMN-anticorrelated brain state during ACAM-J than control states, and the prevalence increased significantly with deeper ACAM-J states. The hyperconnected brain state was also more common during ACAM-J, and was characterized by elevated thalamo-cortical connectivity and somatomotor network connectivity. The hyperconnected brain state significantly decreased over the course of ACAM-J, associating with self-reports of wider attention and diminished physical sensations. This brain state may be related to sensory awareness. Advanced meditators have developed well-honed abilities to move in and out of different altered states of consciousness, and this study provides initial evidence that functional neuroimaging can objectively track their dynamics.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Treves, I. N.
Secondary author(s):
Yang, W. F. Z., Sparby, T., Sacchet, M. D.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Percentiles:
83.17|2.45
Reference:
Treves, I. N., Yang, W. F. Z., Sparby, T., & Sacchet, M. D. (2025). Dynamic brain states underlying advanced concentrative absorption meditation: A 7T fMRI intensive case study. Network Neuroscience, 9(1), 125-145. https://doi.org/10.1162/netn_a_00432
Impact Factor: 3.4|2025
Times cited: 5|2026-07-21
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q2
Keywords: Advanced meditation / Dynamic brain states / DFC / fMRI / Consciousness

Dynamic brain states underlying advanced concentrative absorption meditation: A 7T fMRI intensive case study

Dynamic brain states underlying advanced concentrative absorption meditation: A 7T fMRI intensive case study
File006 - Decoding inner speech with neurophysiological insights and explainable AI2025-10

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: Visitante: / http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

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

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

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2024-006
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
006 - Decoding inner speech with neurophysiological insights and explainable AI
Duration: 2025-10
Researcher(s):
Bo Yao, Xin Yao
Institution(s): Department of Psychology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Lancaster University (UK); School of Data Science, Lingnan University, Hong Kong (China)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Language: eng
Notes:
Ongoing project
Author: Yao, B.
Secondary author(s):
Yao, X.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Inner speech / Consciousness / Explainable machine learning / Psychophysiology
DocumentMultimodal neurophenomenology of advanced concentration absorption meditation: An intensively sampled case study of Jhana2025

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: Visitante: / 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-2020-099
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
099 - Beyond "mindfulness" and toward a modern science of meditative mastery and spiritual transformation
Duration: 2021-03 - 2024-02
Researcher(s):
Matthew Sacchet, Diego Pizzagalli, Remko van Lutterveld, Marta Bianciardi
Institution(s): Center for Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Research - CDASR, McLean Hospital, Belmont (USA)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Sacchet, M.
Secondary author(s):
Pizzagalli, D., van Lutterveld, R., Bianciardi, M.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Advanced meditation / Enlightenment / Neuroimaging / Mindfulness meditation / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-099.18
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Multimodal neurophenomenology of advanced concentration absorption meditation: An intensively sampled case study of Jhana
Publication year: 2025
URL:
Visitante: / https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuroimage.2024.120973
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Using a combination of fMRI, EEG, and phenomenology ratings, we examined the neurophenomenology of advanced concentrative absorption meditation, namely jhanas (ACAM-J), in a practitioner with over 23,000 h of meditation practice. Our study shows that ACAM-J states induce reliable changes in conscious experience and that these experiences are related to neural activity. Using resting-state fMRI functional connectivity, we found that ACAM-J is associated with decreased within-network modularity, increased global functional connectivity (GFC), and desegregation of the default mode and visual networks. Compared to control tasks, the ACAM-J were also related to widespread decreases in broadband EEG oscillatory power and increases in Lempel-Ziv complexity (LZ, a measure of brain entropy). Some fMRI findings varied by the control task used, while EEG results remained consistent, emphasizing both shared and unique neural features of ACAM-J. These differences in fMRI and EEG-measured neurophysiological properties correlated with specific changes in phenomenology – and especially with ACAM-J-induced states of bliss - enriching our understanding of these advanced meditative states. Our results show that advanced meditation practices markedly dysregulate high-level brain systems via practices of enhanced attention to sensations, corroborating recent neurocognitive theories of meditation as the deconstruction of the brain's cortical hierarchy. Overall, our results suggest that ACAM-J is associated with the modulation of large-scale brain networks in both fMRI and EEG, with potential implications for understanding the mechanisms of deep concentration practices and their effects on subjective experience.
Copyright/Reproduction: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Chowdhury, A.
Secondary author(s):
Bianciardi, M., Chapdelaine, E., Riaz, O. S., Timmermann, C., van Lutterveld, R., Sparby, T., Sacchet, M. D.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Percentiles:
83.64|1.75
Reference:
Chowdhury, A., Bianciardi, M., Chapdelaine, E., Riaz, O. S., Timmermann, C., van Lutterveld, R., Sparby, T., & Sacchet, M. D. (2025). Multimodal neurophenomenology of advanced concentration absorption meditation: An intensively sampled case study of Jhana. NeuroImage, 305, 120973. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuroimage.2024.120973
Impact Factor: 5.3|2025
Times cited: 11|2026-07-21
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Meditation / Neurophenomenology / Consciousness / Jhana / ACAM-J / fMRI-EEG

Multimodal neurophenomenology of advanced concentration absorption meditation: An intensively sampled case study of Jhana

Multimodal neurophenomenology of advanced concentration absorption meditation: An intensively sampled case study of Jhana
File328 - The breathing mind: How respiratory phase-related brain oscillations alter the state of consciousness in meditation2025-12

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: Visitante: / http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

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

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

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2024-328
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
328 - The breathing mind: How respiratory phase-related brain oscillations alter the state of consciousness in meditation
Duration: 2025-12
Researcher(s):
Andrea Zaccaro, Francesca Ferri, Mauro Perrucci
Institution(s): Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, Università degli Studi "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti-Pescara (Italy)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Language: eng
Notes:
Ongoing project
Author: Zaccaro, A.
Secondary author(s):
Ferri, F., Perrucci, M.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Meditation / Interoception / Consciousness / Breath-EEG coupling / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology
File422 - Affect, consciousness, and moral judgments2025-07

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: Visitante: / http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

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

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

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2024-422
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
422 - Affect, consciousness, and moral judgments
Duration: 2025-07
Researcher(s):
Piotr Winkielman
Institution(s): Department of Psychology, University of California, San Diego (USA)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Language: eng
Notes:
Ongoing project
Author: Winkielman, P.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Emotion / Decision-making / Morality / Consciousness / Psychophysiology
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: Visitante: / 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:
Visitante: / 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
Percentiles:
98.98|7.86
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
Impact Factor: 11.8|2025
Times cited: 14|2026-07-21
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