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DocumentFinal report - Mindfulness and psychedelics: A neurophenomenological approach to the characterization of acute and sustained response to DMT in experienced meditators2024

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-2020-333
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
333 - Mindfulness and psychedelics: A neurophenomenological approach to the characterization of acute and sustained response to DMT in experienced meditators
Duration: 2021-10 - 2024-05
Researcher(s):
Milan Scheidegger, Daniel Meling, Michael Kometer, Dario Dornbierer
Institution(s): Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital, University of Zurich (Switzerland); University Medical Center Freiburg (Germany)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Articles
Final report
Language: eng
Author:
Scheidegger, M.
Secondary author(s):
Meling, D., Kometer, M., Dornbierer, D.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Meditation / Psychedelics / Neurophenomenology / Brain imaging / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-333.01
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Final report - Mindfulness and psychedelics: A neurophenomenological approach to the characterization of acute and sustained response to DMT in experienced meditators
Publication year: 2024
Abstract/Results:
Abstract:
Background
This study explores the intersection of meditation and psychedelics, focusing on potential synergistic effects of N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and harmine (HAR) on experiential and neurodynamic outcomes.
Aims
The primary aim is to investigate changes in experiential markers and brain activity following DMT/HAR intake during meditation. Specifically, it seeks to elucidate the mindfulness-related effects of DMT.
Method
We conducted a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study involving 40 experienced meditators (22 m, 18 f) that received either DMT/HAR (120 mg each) or placebo in a mindfulness group retreat. Outcomes included psychometric assessments (mindfulness, compassion, insight, transcendence) and changes in resting-state fMRI brain connectivity before and after the retreat.
Results
Significantly higher levels of mystical experiences, non-dual awareness, and emotional breakthroughs were reported in response to acute DMT/HAR, with greater psychological insight one day later. Mindfulness and compassion did not differ significantly between groups. At one-month follow-up, the DMT/HAR group rated their experience as more meaningful and well-being enhancing. Functional network connectivity was increased in several brain regions in the DMT/HAR group, while the placebo group showed reduced network connectivity after the retreat.
Conclusions
This study provides novel evidence that DMT combined with harmine may enhance meditation practice by facilitating deeply meaningful experiences and psychological insights, contributing to meditation-related well-being. The findings suggest that the benefits are more related to eliciting insight, transcendence, and meaning rather than improving mindfulness or compassion.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Scheidegger, M.
Document type:
Final report
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Scheidegger, M. (2024). Final report - Mindfulness and psychedelics: A neurophenomenological approach to the characterization of acute and sustained response to DMT in experienced meditators.
Indexed document: No
Keywords: DMT / Ayahuasca / Psychedelics / Meditation / fMRI

Final report - Mindfulness and psychedelics: A neurophenomenological approach to the characterization of acute and sustained response to DMT in experienced meditators

Final report - Mindfulness and psychedelics: A neurophenomenological approach to the characterization of acute and sustained response to DMT in experienced meditators
DocumentFinal report - Gender differences in physiological correlates of multitasking2024

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-2016-142
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
142 - Gender differences in physiological correlates of multitasking
Duration: 2017-09 - 2026-02
Researcher(s):
Andre Szameitat
Institution(s): Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience, Division of Psychology, Department of Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge (UK)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Author: Szameitat, A.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Multitasking / Gender differences / Electrodermal activity / Brain imaging / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2016-142.01
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Final report - Gender differences in physiological correlates of multitasking
Publication year: 2024
Abstract/Results:
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND
Multitasking, the concurrent performance of two tasks, is ubiquitous in modern life. Despite a widespread stereotype that women are better than men at multitasking, empirical findings are mixed and have not explained the public stereotype. Potential sex differences are relevant for cognitive models of multitasking, job selection, and everyday activities such as driving.
AIMS
Across three studies, we used novel approaches to identify sex differences in multitasking.
METHOD
Study 1 assessed sex differences in several traditional multitasking paradigms and in a newly developed paradigm closely matching everyday multitasking demands. Study 2 examined functional neuroanatomical sex differences during multitasking using fMRI. Study 3 investigated how naïve observers rate men and women performing multitasking tasks.
RESULTS
Study 1 revealed two task-dependent differences: men performed better in a computerized cognitive dual-task, whereas women performed better in the ecologically valid everyday task. Study 3 showed that women performing the everyday task appeared less stressed and more in control than men. Study 2 found sex differences in the brain correlates of multitasking, suggesting that men and women employ different strategies when coordinating multitasking.
CONCLUSIONS
Sex differences in multitasking are task dependent, and behavioural differences may be explained by sex differences in dual-task-specific patterns of recruitment of brain areas. Importantly, the everyday multitasking paradigm revealed a pronounced sex difference visible to outside observers, providing for the first time a potential explanation for the origin of the stereotype that women are better at multitasking.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Szameitat, A.
Document type:
Final report
Number of reproductions:
1
Reference:
Szameitat, A. (2024). Final report - Gender differences in physiological correlates of multitasking.
Indexed document: No
Keywords: Sex/gender differences / Stereotypes / Multitasking / Dual-task performance / fMRI

Final report - Gender differences in physiological correlates of multitasking

Final report - Gender differences in physiological correlates of multitasking
DocumentNeural correlates of expected and perceived treatment efficacy concerning open-label placebos for reducing emotional distress2024

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-2022-003
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
003 - The power of imagination: Neural effects of imagined placebo intake
Duration: 2023-03 - 2025-04
Researcher(s):
Anne Schienle
Institution(s): Clinical Psychology, University of Graz (Austria)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Schienle, A.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Open-label placebo / Affective processing / Imagination / Brain imaging / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2022-003.03
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Neural correlates of expected and perceived treatment efficacy concerning open-label placebos for reducing emotional distress
Publication year: 2024
URL:
Visitante: / https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brainresbull.2024.111121
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Background
Treatment expectations for open-label placebos (OLPs) - placebos prescribed transparently - refer to what a person anticipates will happen as a result of taking the placebo. The actual outcome of OLP treatment may deviate from the initial expectation.
Method
A total of 108 participants received OLP treatment for reducing visually induced emotional distress during functional magnetic resonance imaging. They rated the expected effect of the OLP before the experiment, and evaluated the perceived effect after the experiment. Ratings reflecting the degree of outcome deviation from expectation were correlated with brain activity in regions of interest (dorsolateral/ventrolateral prefrontal cortex, anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), insula, inferior parietal cortex).
Results
Activity in the ACC, the insula, and parietal regions (region-of-interest findings), as well as the parahippocampus (whole-brain finding) was lower when the perceived treatment outcome met or even exceeded expectations.
Conclusions
A positive expectation-outcome evaluation for the OLP was associated with reduced activity in brain regions decoding the salience (insula, ACC) and context of stimuli (parahippocampus). These findings shed light on the mechanisms through which OLPs influence emotion regulation.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Schienle, A.
Secondary author(s):
Wabnegger, A.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Percentiles:
37.55|0.50
Reference:
Schienle, A., & Wabnegger, A. (2024). Neural correlates of expected and perceived treatment efficacy concerning open-label placebos for reducing emotional distress. Brain Research Bulletin, 219, 111121. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brainresbull.2024.111121
Impact Factor: 3.7|2024
Times cited: 3|2026-02-16
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q2
Keywords: Treatment expectations / Treatment efficacy / Open-label placebos / FMRI / Emotion regulation

Neural correlates of expected and perceived treatment efficacy concerning open-label placebos for reducing emotional distress

Neural correlates of expected and perceived treatment efficacy concerning open-label placebos for reducing emotional distress
DocumentIncreased functional connectivity between brain regions involved in social cognition, emotion and affective-value in psychedelic states induced by N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT)2024

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-2018-252
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
252 - Spiritual states induced by ayahuasca, and the involvement of the reward system
Duration: 2019-10 - 2022-09
Researcher(s):
Miguel Castelo-Branco, Gisela Lima, Miguel Raimundo, Pedro Fonseca, Carla Cavaleiro, Lorena Petrella, Célia Cabral, Antero Abrunhosa
Institution(s): Institute for Nuclear Sciences Applied to Health - ICNAS, University of Coimbra (Portugal)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Castelo-Branco, M.
Secondary author(s):
Lima, G., Raimundo, M., Fonseca, P., Cavaleiro, C., Petrella, L., Cabral, C., Abrunhosa, A.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Ayahuasca / Dopamine and reward / Spiritual experience / Hallucinations / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-252.12
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Increased functional connectivity between brain regions involved in social cognition, emotion and affective-value in psychedelic states induced by N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT)
Publication year: 2024
URL:
Visitante: / https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2024.1454628
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
The modulation of social cognition is suggested as a possible mechanism contributing to the potential clinical efficacy of psychedelics in disorders involving socio-emotional and reward processing deficits. Resting-state functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (rs-fMRI) can be used to detect changes in brain connectivity during psychedelic-induced states. Thus, this pharmacoimaging study investigates the effects of N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) on functional connectivity in brain areas relevant to social cognition, using a within-subject design in eleven healthy experienced users. The study included both an active and a control condition, conducted at different time points. The active condition involved DMT inhalation, while the control condition did not. Seed-based connectivity was measured for the two core regions involved in theory of mind and emotional processing, respectively, the posterior supramarginal gyrus and the amygdala. DMT increased supramarginal gyrus connectivity with the precuneus, posterior cingulate gyrus, amygdala, and orbitofrontal cortex. Additionally, increased connectivity emerged between the amygdala and orbitofrontal cortex. These results demonstrate that DMT modulates brain connectivity in socio-emotional and affective-value circuits, advancing our understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying the psychedelic experience and its potential therapeutic action.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Soares, C.
Secondary author(s):
Lima, G., Pais, M. L., Teixeira, M., Cabral, C., Castelo-Branco, M.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Percentiles:
64.37|1.03
Reference:
Soares, C., Lima, G., Pais, M. L., Teixeira, M., Cabral, C., & Castelo-Branco, M. (2024). Increased functional connectivity between brain regions involved in social cognition, emotion and affective-value in psychedelic states induced by N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT). Frontiers in Pharmacology, 15, 1454628. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2024.1454628
Impact Factor: 4.8|2024
Times cited: 6|2026-02-16
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) / fMRI / Functional connectivity / Pharmacoimaging / Psychedelics / Social cognition

Increased functional connectivity between brain regions involved in social cognition, emotion and affective-value in psychedelic states induced by N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT)

Increased functional connectivity between brain regions involved in social cognition, emotion and affective-value in psychedelic states induced by N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT)
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
DocumentIndividual differences in vicarious pain as a shift in the self-other boundary2025

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-2018-125.03
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Individual differences in vicarious pain as a shift in the self-other boundary
Publication year: 2025
URL:
Visitante: / https://doi.org/10.1162/imag_a_00422
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
There is inconsistent evidence concerning whether physical pain and vicarious pain share neural resources. This may reflect different methodological approaches (e.g., univariate versus multivariate fMRI analyses) and/or participant characteristics. Here we contrast people who report experiencing pain when seeing others in pain (vicarious pain responders) withnon-responders (who do not report pain). Cues indicated the level and location of an electrical shock delivered to the participant (self) or experimenter (other), with behavioral ratings and neural responses (fMRI) obtained. Non-responders tend to rate their own pain as worse than others given identical cues, whereas responders show greater similarity between self and other ratings. Univariate neuroimaging analyses showed activity in regions of the pain matrix such as insula, mid-cingulate and somatosensory cortices contrasting physical versus vicarious pain, and when regressing the level of self pain. But these analyses did not differ by group. Multivariate analyses, by contrast, revealed several group differences. The ability to classify self versus other was less accurate in the vicarious pain responders (in the same regions implicated in the univariate analyses of physical pain). In conclusion, the degree of shared neural responses to physical and vicarious pain is increased in vicarious pain responders consistent with the notion of differences in the self-other boundary.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Li, M.
Secondary author(s):
Racey, C., Bouyagoub, S., Critchley, H. D., Ward, J.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Percentiles:
0.00|0.00
Reference:
Li, M., Racey, C., Bouyagoub, S., Critchley, H. D., & Ward, J. (2025). Individual differences in vicarious pain as a shift in the self-other boundary. Imaging Neuroscience, 3, imag_a_00422. https://doi.org/10.1162/imag_a_00422
Impact Factor: 3|2025
Times cited: 0|2026-03-10
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q2
Keywords: Vicarious pain / Empathy / Emotion contagion / fMRI / Multi-voxel pattern analysis

Individual Differences in Vicarious Pain as a Shift in the Self-Other Boundary

Individual Differences in Vicarious Pain as a Shift in the Self-Other Boundary

File101 - The Hide Of Reminiscence (THOR): Familiarity as memory failure or semantic boost?2025-12

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-2024-101
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
101 - The Hide Of Reminiscence (THOR): Familiarity as memory failure or semantic boost?
Duration: 2025-12
Researcher(s):
Federica Santacroce, Annalisa Tosoni, Rosalia Di Matteo
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: Santacroce, F.
Secondary author(s):
Tosoni, A., Di Matteo, R.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Familiarity / Semantic memory / Morphology / fMRI / Psychophysiology
File267 - Brain activity of Episodic Autobiographical memory elicited Through music: An Artificial Intelligence algorithm-based study (BEAT-AI)2025-12

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-2024-267
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
267 - Brain activity of Episodic Autobiographical memory elicited Through music: An Artificial Intelligence algorithm-based study (BEAT-AI)
Duration: 2025-12
Researcher(s):
Maria Giulia Tullo, Danilo Maurizio
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: Tullo, M. G.
Secondary author(s):
Maurizio, D.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Episodic autobiographical memory / Music / Artificial intelligence / fMRI / Psychophysiology
DocumentSpecialization for different memory dimensions in brain activity evoked by cued recollection2025

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-2020-384
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
384 - Schema-based temporal memory in parietal cortex (SCHETEMP)
Duration: 2021-10 - 2023-11
Researcher(s):
Matteo Frisoni, Paolo Capotosto
Institution(s): Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, Università degli Studi "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti - Pescara (Italy)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Frisoni, M.
Secondary author(s):
Capotosto, P.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
TMS/EEG / Memory for time / Episodic memory / Schematic knowledge / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-384.05
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Specialization for different memory dimensions in brain activity evoked by cued recollection
Publication year: 2025
URL:
Visitante: / https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuroimage.2025.121068
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Cued recollection involves the retrieval of different features of the encoded event. Previous research has shown that the recollection of complex events jointly recruits the Default Mode and the Frontoparietal Control networks, but the degree to which activity within these networks varies as a function of the particular memory dimension (e.g., the "when-what-where" information) remains largely unknown. In the present functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) study, human participants retrieved specific information about a previously encoded TV show to assess the veracity of detailed sentences along four memory dimensions (i.e., object and character details, spatial layouts, temporal sequences, verbal dialogues). A common activity for all dimensions was observed in a left-lateralized network of regions that largely overlaps with the Frontoparietal Control Network (FPCN), including the lateral prefrontal, lateral superior parietal, and lateral temporal cortex. Instead, a larger degree of specialization for different memory dimensions was observed within the Default Mode Network (DMN), particularly in its posterior nodes. Dimension-related specificity in both networks was associated with memory performance across subjects. Finally, a clear leftward asymmetry was observed in the DMN for all dimensions except for the temporal one, whereas the FPCN showed a bilateral activation across dimensions. The present results generally support the view that specific memory information is processed by a mosaic of regions within large portions of the associative cortex involved in higher-order mnemonic functions.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Procida, F.
Secondary author(s):
Frisoni, M., Tullo, M. G., Tosoni, A., Perrucci, M. G., Chiacchiaretta, P., Guidotti, R., Sestieri, C.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Percentiles:
86.54|2.92
Reference:
Procida, F., Frisoni, M., Tullo, M. G., Tosoni, A., Perrucci, M. G., Chiacchiaretta, P., Guidotti, R., & Sestieri, C. (2025). Specialization for different memory dimensions in brain activity evoked by cued recollection. NeuroImage, 308, 121068. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuroimage.2025.121068
Impact Factor: 5.3|2025
Times cited: 3|2026-07-21
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Episodic memory / Cued recollection / fMRI / Default mode network / Frontoparietal control network / Functional specificity / Hemispheric asymmetry

Specialization for different memory dimensions in brain activity evoked by cued recollection

Specialization for different memory dimensions in brain activity evoked by cued recollection
DocumentA systematic review and meta-analysis of the neural correlates of direct vs. generative retrieval of episodic autobiographical memory2024

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-2020-075
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
075 - Psychophysiology of highly superior autobiographical memory: Shedding light on the mind of people who never forget
Duration: 2021-09 - 2026-05
Researcher(s):
Valerio Santangelo, Sabrina Fagioli
Institution(s): Department of Philosophy, Social Sciences & Education, University of Perugia (Italy); Roma Tre University (Italy)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Santangelo, V.
Secondary author(s):
Fagioli, S.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Enhanced memory / Memory encoding / Memory retrieval / Electroencephalogram (EEG) / Event-related potential (ERP) / Brain oscillations / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-075.06
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
A systematic review and meta-analysis of the neural correlates of direct vs. generative retrieval of episodic autobiographical memory
Publication year: 2024
URL:
Visitante: / https://doi.org/10.1007/s11065-024-09653-3
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
There is a widespread view that episodic autobiographical memories (EAMs) can be retrieved “directly” or “generatively.” However, the neural mechanisms underlying these retrieval modes have been overlooked in the literature, likely due to the difficulty of operationalizing the two notions. Here, we propose to operationalize direct vs. generative retrieval based on memory cue specificity, in terms of EAMs elicited by specific/personalized vs. generic memory cues, respectively. After completing a literature search in four databases (PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science) in 2023, we performed a multilevel kernel density analysis (MKDA) to directly compare activations from 32 neuroimaging studies investigating these two EAM retrieval modalities with the above memory cue distinction. Both direct and generative retrieval showed common activations of the left hippocampus, bilateral angular gyrus, and posterior cingulate cortex. The direct vs. generative comparison revealed the activation of a brain circuit comprising the anterior and posterior cortical midline, the left angular gyrus, and the right cerebellum. Previous literature suggests that these regions play a role in self-referential processes, indicating that direct access to EAMs may be supported by the recruitment of self-related neural resources that facilitate the retrieval of personal memories. Conversely, generative vs. direct MKDA revealed the activation of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex. As this region has been previously associated with schematic memory, its involvement may emphasize the “constructive” nature of generative EAM retrieval. Overall, the current findings extend the previous literature by providing the neurobiological foundation of direct and generative EAM retrieval.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Daviddi, S.
Secondary author(s):
Yaya, G., Sperduti, M., Santangelo, V.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Percentiles:
28.03|0.30
Reference:
Daviddi, S., Yaya, G., Sperduti, M., & Santangelo, V. (2024). A systematic review and meta-analysis of the neural correlates of direct vs. generative retrieval of episodic autobiographical memory. Neuropsychology Review, 35(4), 710–730. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11065-024-09653-3
Impact Factor: 5|2024
Times cited: 2|2026-02-16
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Episodic autobiographical memory / Direct retrieval / Generative retrieval / FMRI / MKDA

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the neural correlates of direct vs. generative retrieval of episodic autobiographical memory

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the neural correlates of direct vs. generative retrieval of episodic autobiographical memory
DocumentFragile mentalizing: Lack of behavioral and neural markers of social cognition in an established social perspective taking task when combined with stress induction2024

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-2018-072
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
072 - Temperamental influences on social cognition under stress
Duration: 2019-02 - 2021-09
Researcher(s):
Frederike Beyer, Ulrike Krämer
Institution(s): Psychology Department, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, Queen Mary University of London (UK); Department of Neurology, University of Lubeck (Germany)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Beyer, F.
Secondary author(s):
Krämer, U.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Emotional reactivity / Stress / Social cognition / Development / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-072.03
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Fragile mentalizing: Lack of behavioral and neural markers of social cognition in an established social perspective taking task when combined with stress induction
Publication year: 2024
URL:
Visitante: / https://doi.org/10.1523/ENEURO.0084-24.2024
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
The growing field of social neuroscience is reliant on the development of robust, ecologically valid paradigms for simulating social interaction and measuring social cognition in highly controlled laboratory settings. Perspective taking is a key component of social cognition, and accordingly several paradigms aimed at measuring perspective taking exist. A relatively novel paradigm is the ball detection task, in which participants and a virtual agent form independent beliefs about the presence of a target stimulus behind an occluder. Previous studies have shown that incongruent trials (in which the participant's and the agent's beliefs differ) affect participant reaction times and elicit increased neural activity in the so-called mentalizing network. This paradigm has important advantages over previous ones, in that experimental conditions can be fully randomized, and ceiling effects are not found even for adult populations. Here, we combined this paradigm with a stress induction and a nonstressful control task. In an online study, we found no evidence of perspective taking at the behavioral level. Combining the task with functional magnetic resonance imaging, we found no evidence of perspective taking at the behavioral or neural level, even for the control condition. While this paradigm is reliable on its own, implementing it in the context of a task-switching paradigm appears to reduce participants' focus on task-irrelevant perspective taking elements. Our findings highlight the fragility of existing social cognition paradigms and the need for reliable, simple, and ecologically valid measures of perspective taking.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Cheema, S.
Secondary author(s):
Augustin, C., Göttlich, M., Krämer, U. M., Beyer, F.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Percentiles:
37.55|0.50
Reference:
Cheema, S., Augustin, C., Göttlich, M., Krämer, U. M., & Beyer, F. (2024). Fragile mentalizing: Lack of behavioral and neural markers of social cognition in an established social perspective taking task when combined with stress induction. eNeuro, 11(11), ENEURO.0084-24.2024. https://doi.org/10.1523/ENEURO.0084-24.2024
Impact Factor: 2.7|2024
Times cited: 2|2026-02-16
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q3
Keywords: fMRI / Mentalizing / Perspective taking / Stress

Fragile mentalizing: Lack of behavioral and neural markers of social cognition in an established social perspective taking task when combined with stress induction

Fragile mentalizing: Lack of behavioral and neural markers of social cognition in an established social perspective taking task when combined with stress induction
DocumentNeural correlates of the sense of agency in free and coerced moral decision-making among civilians and military personnel2025

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-2018-150
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
150 - A neuroscience approach to investigating how hierarchy influences moral behaviour
Duration: 2019-10 - 2025-03
Researcher(s):
Axel Cleeremans, Emilie Caspar
Institution(s): Center for Research in Cognition and Neuroscience, Université libre de Bruxelles (Belgium); Department of behavioural sciences, Royal Military Academy, Brussels (Belgium)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress Report
Final Report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Cleeremans, A.
Secondary author(s):
Caspar, E. A.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Sense of agency / Empathy / Coercion / Military / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-150.03
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Neural correlates of the sense of agency in free and coerced moral decision-making among civilians and military personnel
Publication year: 2025
URL:
Visitante: / https://doi.org/10.1093/cercor/bhaf049
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
The sense of agency, the feeling of being the author of one’s actions and outcomes, is critical for decision-making. While prior research has explored its neural correlates, most studies have focused on neutral tasks, overlooking moral decision-making. In addition, previous studies mainly used convenience samples, ignoring that some social environments may influence how authorship in moral decision-making is processed. This study investigated the neural correlates of sense of agency in civilians and military officer cadets, examining free and coerced choices in both agent and commander roles. Using a functional magnetic resonance imaging paradigm where participants could either freely choose or follow orders to inflict a mild shock on a victim, we assessed sense of agency through temporal binding—a temporal distortion between voluntary and less voluntary decisions. Our findings suggested that sense of agency is reduced when following orders compared to acting freely in both roles. Several brain regions correlated with temporal binding, notably the occipital lobe, superior/middle/inferior frontal gyrus, precuneus, and lateral occipital cortex. Importantly, no differences emerged between military and civilians at corrected thresholds, suggesting that daily environments have minimal influence on the neural basis of moral decision-making, enhancing the generalizability of the findings.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Copyright/Reproduction:
By permission
Language:
eng
Author:
Caspar, E. A.
Secondary author(s):
Rovai, A., Lo Bue, S., Cleeremans, A.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Percentiles:
64.08|1.23
Reference:
Caspar, E. A., Rovai, A., Lo Bue, S., & Cleeremans, A. (2025). Neural correlates of the sense of agency in free and coerced moral decision-making among civilians and military personnel. Cerebral Cortex, 35(3), bhaf049. https://doi.org/10.1093/cercor/bhaf049
Impact Factor: 3|2025
Times cited: 2|2026-07-22
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q3
Keywords: Decision-making / fMRI / Military / Sense of agency / Temporal binding
DocumentFinal report - A neuroscience approach to investigating how hierarchy influences moral behaviour2024

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-2018-150
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
150 - A neuroscience approach to investigating how hierarchy influences moral behaviour
Duration: 2019-10 - 2025-03
Researcher(s):
Axel Cleeremans, Emilie Caspar
Institution(s): Center for Research in Cognition and Neuroscience, Université libre de Bruxelles (Belgium); Department of behavioural sciences, Royal Military Academy, Brussels (Belgium)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress Report
Final Report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Cleeremans, A.
Secondary author(s):
Caspar, E. A.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Sense of agency / Empathy / Coercion / Military / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-150.01
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Final report - A neuroscience approach to investigating how hierarchy influences moral behaviour
Publication year: 2024
Abstract/Results:
ABSTRACT:
Background
The sense of agency (SoA), the feeling of being the author of one’s actions and outcomes, plays a critical role in decision-making. While prior research has explored its neural correlates, most studies have focused on neutral tasks, neglecting moral decision-making. Additionally, most studies used convenience samples, overlooking the potential influence of environments like the military on SoA processing.
Aims
This project aimed to investigate the neural basis of SoA in military and civilian participants using fMRI, examining their decisions to freely act, follow, or resist orders to harm another person.
Method
In Study 1, participants either chose freely or followed orders to inflict a mild shock on a victim. SoA was assessed through temporal binding (TB)—the perceived temporal distortion between voluntary and less voluntary decisions. In Study 2, participants received orders to inflict a mild shock and had to choose whether to obey or disobey.
Results
Study 1 revealed reduced SoA when following orders compared to acting freely. Key brain regions associated with TB included the occipital lobe, frontal gyri, precuneus, and lateral occipital cortex. Importantly, no differences between military and civilians emerged at corrected thresholds, suggesting that daily environments minimally influence the neural basis of moral decision-making. Study 2 showed that military participants experienced reduced SoA when disobeying orders. Both military and civilian participants relied on similar neuro-cognitive processes when disobeying, but the relationship between prosocial disobedience and activity in the right TPJ, Prec/PCC, and bilateral AI was stronger in military participants.
Conclusions
These studies indicate that while both populations rely on similar brain regions for SoA in moral decisions, specific differences emerge when resisting orders.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Cleeremans, A.
Secondary author(s):
Caspar, E. A.
Document type:
Final report
Number of reproductions:
1
Reference:
Cleeremans, A. , & Caspar, E. A. (2024). Final report - A neuroscience approach to investigating how hierarchy influences moral behaviour.
Indexed document: No
Keywords: Sense of agency / Temporal binding / Military / fMRI / Decision-making / Moral behaviors

Final report - A neuroscience approach to investigating how hierarchy influences moral behaviour

Final report - A neuroscience approach to investigating how hierarchy influences moral behaviour
DocumentNeuro-cognitive specificities in prosocial disobedience: A comparative fMRI study of civilian and military populations2025

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-2018-150
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
150 - A neuroscience approach to investigating how hierarchy influences moral behaviour
Duration: 2019-10 - 2025-03
Researcher(s):
Axel Cleeremans, Emilie Caspar
Institution(s): Center for Research in Cognition and Neuroscience, Université libre de Bruxelles (Belgium); Department of behavioural sciences, Royal Military Academy, Brussels (Belgium)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress Report
Final Report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Cleeremans, A.
Secondary author(s):
Caspar, E. A.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Sense of agency / Empathy / Coercion / Military / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-150.04
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Neuro-cognitive specificities in prosocial disobedience: A comparative fMRI study of civilian and military populations
Publication year: 2025
URL:
Visitante: / https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0328407
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
The literature highlighted that compliance with or resistance to authority orders to inflict pain involves cognitive processes like empathy, guilt, mentalization, cognitive conflict, and sense of agency. However, previous studies have focused on civilians, for whom such decisions are less significant than for military personnel, where obedience or resistance is integral to duty. This functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) study examined 53 military personnel, compared to 56 civilians, tasked with deciding whether or not to deliver shocks to a victim following orders received by an experimenter. Results revealed that military participants disobeyed orders less frequently, adopting higher homogeneous profiles: fewer ultra-prosocial and no antisocial behavior. High disobedience in military participants was driven by rational (moral, educational) and emotional factors (guilt, sadness, heightened victim sensitivity). Shared neuro-cognitive processes were observed between the two populations, but the level of engagement of these processes differed. While civilians predominantly recruited left temporo-parietal junction (TPJ) and dorso-medial prefrontal cortex (dmPFC) during decision-making, military agents relied more heavily on regions such as the right TPJ and anterior insula to achieve disobedience. Military participants also exhibited a reduced sense of agency in prosocial disobedience compared to civilians. In post-decision when witnessing the victim’s pain, military participants preferentially activated right-hemisphere regions, while civilians engaged more left and medial regions. These differences suggest distinct mentalization forms, with civilians favoring cognitive empathy and military personnel relying more on affective empathy. These findings could have implications for ethics training in military and institutional contexts, and offer insights into how obedience and resistance are cognitively and emotionally constructed across different social roles and institutional environments.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Tricoche, L.
Secondary author(s):
Rovai, A., Lo Bue, S., Caspar, E. A.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Percentiles:
64.08|1.23
Reference:
Tricoche, L., Rovai, A., Lo Bue, S., & Caspar, E. A. (2025). Neuro-cognitive specificities in prosocial disobedience: A comparative fMRI study of civilian and military populations. PLoS ONE, 20(7), e0328407. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0328407
Impact Factor: 2.8|2025
Times cited: 2|2026-07-22
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q2
Keywords: Prosocial disobedience / fMRI / Military populations

Neuro-cognitive specificities in prosocial disobedience: A comparative fMRI study of civilian and military populations

Neuro-cognitive specificities in prosocial disobedience: A comparative fMRI study of civilian and military populations
DocumentCreativity in music: The brain dynamics of jazz improvisation2025

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-2020-263
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
263 - Brain routes to creativity: Uncovering creative flow in Jazz with neuromodulation
Duration: 2021-01 - 2025-10
Researcher(s):
Henrique Fernandes, Jakub Vohryzek, Ana Coelho, Morten Kringelbach, Peter Vuust
Institution(s): Center for Music in the Brain, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University (Denmark); University of Oxford (UK)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Fernandes, H.
Secondary author(s):
Vohryzek, J., Coelho, A., Kringelbach, M., Vuust, P.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Creativity / Music / Whole-brain computational modelling / Neuromodulation / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-263.02
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Creativity in music: The brain dynamics of jazz improvisation
Publication year: 2025
URL:
Visitante: / https://doi.org/10.1111/nyas.70042
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Jazz improvisation is a controlled yet ecologically valid framework for investigating spontaneous creative behavior. We examined spatiotemporal brain dynamics when skilled musicians applied different strategies to improvise on a jazz standard. We performed rest and task-based functional magnetic resonance imaging on 16 skilled jazz pianists playing "Days of Wine and Roses", with varying levels of improvisation freedom: (1) playing the melody from memory (byHeart); (2) improvising on the melody (iMelody); and (3) freely improvising (iFreely) on the chord changes. Behaviorally, higher levels of improvisational freedom were associated with a larger number of notes, greater melodic entropy, and reduced pitch predictability. Using the Leading Eigenvector Dynamics Analysis (LEiDA), we found increased activity in the reward system for all conditions compared to rest, including the orbito-frontal cortex. In the improvisation conditions compared to rest, there was a significantly higher probability of a brain state comprising auditory and sensorimotor areas related to musical performance and right insula belonging to the posterior salience network. The highest level of improvisational freedom (iFreely) had a higher occurrence of a brain substate, including the default mode, executive control, and language networks. These networks are involved in planning complex behaviors, decision-making, and motor control-all relevant for understanding neural signatures of creativity.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Da Mota, P. A.
Secondary author(s):
Fernandes, H. M., Lourenço Queiroga, A. T., Stark, E., Vohryzek, J., Cabral, J., Heggli, O. A., Sousa, N., Deco, G., Kringelbach, M., Vuust, P.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Percentiles:
0.00|0.00
Reference:
Da Mota, P. A., Fernandes, H. M., Lourenço Queiroga, A. T., Stark, E., Vohryzek, J., Cabral, J., Heggli, O. A., Sousa, N., Deco, G., Kringelbach, M., & Vuust, P. (2025). Creativity in music: The brain dynamics of jazz improvisation. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1553(1), 350–362. https://doi.org/10.1111/nyas.70042
Impact Factor: 4.5|2025
Times cited: 2|2026-07-22
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: LEiDA / Leading Eigenvector Dynamical Analysis / Creative behavior / fMRI / Jazz / Music improvisation

Creativity in music: The brain dynamics of jazz improvisation

Creativity in music: The brain dynamics of jazz improvisation
DocumentPersonalized models of disorders of consciousness reveal complementary roles of connectivity and local parameters in diagnosis and prognosis2025

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-151
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Personalized models of disorders of consciousness reveal complementary roles of connectivity and local parameters in diagnosis and prognosis
Publication year: 2025
URL:
Visitante: / https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0328219
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
The study of disorders of consciousness (DoC) is very complex because patients suffer from a wide variety of lesions, affected brain mechanisms, different severity of symptoms, and are unable to communicate. Combining neuroimaging data and mathematical modeling can help us quantify and better describe some of these alterations. The goal of this study is to provide a new analysis and modeling pipeline for fMRI data leading to new diagnosis and prognosis biomarkers at the individual patient level. To do so, we project patients’ fMRI data into a low-dimension latent-space. We define the latent space’s dimension as the smallest dimension able to maintain the complexity, non-linearities, and information carried by the data, according to different criteria that we detail in the first part. This dimensionality reduction procedure then allows us to build biologically inspired latent whole-brain models that can be calibrated at the single-patient level. In particular, we propose a new model inspired by the regulation of neuronal activity by astrocytes in the brain. This modeling procedure leads to two types of model-based biomarkers (MBBs) that provide novel insight at different levels: (1) the connectivity matrices bring us information about the severity of the patient’s diagnosis, and, (2) the local node parameters correlate to the patient’s etiology, age and prognosis. Altogether, this study offers a new data processing framework for resting-state fMRI which provides crucial information regarding DoC patients diagnosis and prognosis. Finally, this analysis pipeline could be applied to other neurological conditions.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Zonca, L.
Secondary author(s):
Escrichs, A., Patow, G., Manasova, D., Sanz-Perl, Y., Annen, J., Gosseries, O., Laureys, S., Sitt, J. D., Deco, G.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Percentiles:
0.00|0.00
Reference:
Zonca, L., Escrichs, A., Patow, G., Manasova, D., Sanz-Perl, Y., Annen, J., Gosseries, O., Laureys, S., Sitt, J. D., & Deco, G. (2025). Personalized models of disorders of consciousness reveal complementary roles of connectivity and local parameters in diagnosis and prognosis. PLoS One, 20(9), e0328219. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0328219
Impact Factor: 2.8|2025
Times cited: 1|2026-07-22
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q2
Keywords: Disorders of consciousness (DoC) / Personalized brain models / fmRI

Personalized models of disorders of consciousness reveal complementary roles of connectivity and local parameters in diagnosis and prognosis

Personalized models of disorders of consciousness reveal complementary roles of connectivity and local parameters in diagnosis and prognosis
DocumentMeditation, psychedelics, and brain connectivity: A randomized controlled resting-state fMRI study of N,N-dimethyltryptamine and harmine in a meditation retreat2025

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-2020-333
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
333 - Mindfulness and psychedelics: A neurophenomenological approach to the characterization of acute and sustained response to DMT in experienced meditators
Duration: 2021-10 - 2024-05
Researcher(s):
Milan Scheidegger, Daniel Meling, Michael Kometer, Dario Dornbierer
Institution(s): Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital, University of Zurich (Switzerland); University Medical Center Freiburg (Germany)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Articles
Final report
Language: eng
Author:
Scheidegger, M.
Secondary author(s):
Meling, D., Kometer, M., Dornbierer, D.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Meditation / Psychedelics / Neurophenomenology / Brain imaging / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-333.10
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Meditation, psychedelics, and brain connectivity: A randomized controlled resting-state fMRI study of N,N-dimethyltryptamine and harmine in a meditation retreat
Publication year: 2025
URL:
Visitante: / https://doi.org/10.1162/IMAG.a.907
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Both meditation and psychedelics are widely studied for their therapeutic potential in mental health. Recent research suggests potential synergies between mindfulness practice and psychedelics, though empirical studies have primarily focused on psilocybin. This study investigates the distinct and combined effects of mindfulness practice and an ayahuasca-inspired formulation containing N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and harmine on brain functional connectivity (FC), with implications for advancing clinical interventions. In this double-blind, placebo-controlled pharmaco-functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study, 40 meditation practitioners participated in a 3-day meditation retreat. They were randomized to receive either placebo or buccal DMT–harmine (120 mg each) and underwent fMRI scans 2 days before and after administration. Neural changes were assessed using multiple connectivity metrics, including within- and between-network connectivity, network and global connectivity, and cortical gradient analyses. Within-group changes showed that meditators in the placebo group exhibited increased network segregation across several resting-state networks, while the DMT–harmine group showed increased FC within the visual network (VIS) and between VIS and attention networks. Between-group differences similarly showed increased FC between VIS and the salience network (SAL) in the DMT–harmine group compared with placebo post-retreat. No evidence of prolonged cortical gradient disruption, which is characteristic of acute psychedelic action, was observed. This suggests a return to typical brain organization shortly after the experience. These findings reveal distinct neural mechanisms underlying meditation and psychedelic-augmented meditation. While meditation alone reduced FC between networks, DMT–harmine increased within- and between-network connectivity. Given the potential of meditation and psychedelics for improving mental health, further exploration of their synergistic potential in clinical contexts is warranted. This study advances the understanding of how psychedelics and mindfulness practice shape brain function, offering insights into their complementary roles in emotional and psychological well-being.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Egger, K.
Secondary author(s):
Meling, D., Polat, F., Seifritz, E., Avram, M., Scheidegger, M.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
3
Percentiles:
0.00|0.00
Reference:
Egger, K., Meling, D., Polat, F., Seifritz, E., Avram, M., & Scheidegger, M. (2025). Meditation, psychedelics, and brain connectivity: A randomized controlled resting-state fMRI study of N,N-dimethyltryptamine and harmine in a meditation retreat. Imaging Neuroscience, 3, Article IMAG.a.907. https://doi.org/10.1162/IMAG.a.907
Impact Factor: 3|2025
Times cited: 1|2026-07-22
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q2
Keywords: Psychedelics / fMRI / DMT / Harmine / Meditation / Neuroscience

Meditation, psychedelics, and brain connectivity: A randomized controlled resting-state fMRI study of N,N-dimethyltryptamine and harmine in a meditation retreat

Meditation, psychedelics, and brain connectivity: A randomized controlled resting-state fMRI study of N,N-dimethyltryptamine and harmine in a meditation retreat
DocumentFinal report - Neuroanatomical correlates of well-being in a mindfulness and religious exercises program2025

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-2020-380
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
380 - Neuroanatomical correlates of wellbeing in a mindfulness and religious exercises program
Duration: 2021-11 - 2026-02
Researcher(s):
Paulo Dias, Ângela Leite, Bruno Nobre, Bruce Fischl
Institution(s): Centre for Philosophical and Humanistic Studies, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Braga (Portugal)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Dias, P.
Secondary author(s):
Leite, A., Nobre, B., Fischl, B.
Number of reproductions:
3
Keywords:
Neuroanatomy / Wellbeing / Mindfulness / Religious exercises / Psychophysiology and Parapsychology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-380.01
Title: Final report - Neuroanatomical correlates of well-being in a mindfulness and religious exercises program
Publication year: 2025
Abstract/Results:
ABSTRACT:
Neuroscientific research indicates that both religious/spiritual practices and mindfulness meditation engage domain-general brain networks, yet a direct comparative analysis of their distinct and overlapping neural correlates is lacking. This study aimed to explore the neuroanatomical and psychological correlates of a 5-day Ignatian Exercises (IE) and a similar duration secular Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) retreats. A pre/post-test, between-groups design was employed with an MBSR group (n=9) and an IE group(n=15). Structural and functional MRI data were acquired, and psychological scales (well-being, distress, mindfulness, religiosity) were administered before and after the intervention. Psychologically, both groups showed non-significant trends toward improved well-being and reduced distress. The IE Group maintained higher religiosity scores. Neuroanatomically, voxel-based morphometry (VBM) revealed a significant increase in gray matter density common to both groups in relevant regions. Independent Component Analysis (ICA) identified a significant interaction in the Executive Control Network, with MBSR showing increased connectivity and the Ignatian group showing decreased connectivity. In conclusion, while both practices induce convergent structural neuroplasticity and similar psychological trends, they engage fundamentally different functional pathways. Mindfulness strengthens executive control, whereas spiritual exercises may involve its disengagement for receptivity, highlighting differential modulation of domain-general networks for distinct outcomes.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Dias, P.
Secondary author(s):
Leite, Â., Nobre, B., Fischl, B.
Document type:
Final report
Number of reproductions:
3
Reference:
Dias, P., Leite, Â., Nobre, B., Fischl, B. (2025). Final report - Neuroanatomical correlates of well-being in a mindfulness and religious exercises program.
Indexed document: No
Keywords: Mindfulness Meditation / Ignatian Exercises / Executive Control Network / Neuroplasticity / fMRI

Final report - Neuroanatomical correlates of well-being in a mindfulness and religious exercises program

Final report - Neuroanatomical correlates of well-being in a mindfulness and religious exercises program
DocumentFear learning in unmedicated patients with anxiety disorders: A comparison of delay conditioning, fear reversal, and trace conditioning2026

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-2022-235.17
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Fear learning in unmedicated patients with anxiety disorders: A comparison of delay conditioning, fear reversal, and trace conditioning
Publication year: 2026
URL:
Visitante: / https://doi.org/10.1038/s41398-026-03996-6
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Anxiety disorders are common and impairing, yet their underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Fear learning provides a critical translational framework for investigating pathological anxiety, bridging laboratory models and clinical phenomena. Prior studies have been limited by important methodological issues, including the inclusion of non-anxiety diagnoses, high comorbidity, and medication use. Here we examined three forms of fear learning— delay conditioning, fear reversal, and trace conditioning—in unmedicated adults with minimally comorbid primary anxiety disorders (Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Social Anxiety Disorder; n = 34) and demographically matched controls (n = 102). Individuals with anxiety disorders showed greater psychophysiological arousal (skin conductance responses) and reduced brain activation (assessed using functional magnetic resonance imaging) in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex to the learned safety cue (CS - ) during the early phase of delay conditioning. Differences between individuals with anxiety disorders and controls were not evident for the learned threat versus learned safety (CS+ versus CS - ) contrasts during delay conditioning, fear-reversal, or trace conditioning in psychophysiological arousal, brain activation, or subjective ratings. Taken together, these observations underscore the selectivity of Pavlovian learning deficits among unmedicated individuals with anxiety disorders and highlight differences in learning or using safety-related information to adaptively regulate fear.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Vilajosana, E.
Secondary author(s):
Battaglia, S., Chavarría-Elizondo, P., Martínez-Zalacaín, I., Juaneda-Seguí, A., Saiz-Masvidal, C., De la Peña-Arteaga, V., Shackman, A. J., Radua, J., Soriano-Mas, C., Fullana, M. A.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Reference:
Vilajosana, E., Battaglia, S., Chavarría-Elizondo, P., Martínez-Zalacaín, I., Juaneda-Seguí, A., Saiz-Masvidal, C., De la Peña-Arteaga, V., Shackman, A. J., Radua, J., Soriano-Mas, C., & Fullana, M. A. (2026). Fear learning in unmedicated patients with anxiety disorders: A comparison of delay conditioning, fear reversal, and trace conditioning. Translational Psychiatry, 16(1), 274. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41398-026-03996-6
Impact Factor: 7.5|2025
Impact factor notes: Impact factor not available yet for 2026
Times cited: 0|2026-07-23
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Fear Conditioning / Anxiety Disorders / Trace Conditioning / Reversal Learning / Neural Response / fMRI / Psychophysiological Measures

Fear learning in unmedicated patients with anxiety disorders: A comparison of delay conditioning, fear reversal, and trace conditioning

Fear learning in unmedicated patients with anxiety disorders: A comparison of delay conditioning, fear reversal, and trace conditioning
DocumentFinal report - How reward shapes volition: Neural correlates of motivated intentional actions2026

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-2022-052
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
052 - How reward shapes volition: Neural correlates of motivated intentional actions
Duration: 2023-07
Researcher(s):
Laura Zapparoli, Francantonio Devoto
Institution(s): Department of Psychology, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca (Italy)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Article
Language: eng
Notes:
Ongoing project
Author: Zapparoli, L.
Secondary author(s):
Devoto, F.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Volition / Reward / Motor intentionality / Sense of agency / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2022-052.01
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Final report - How reward shapes volition: Neural correlates of motivated intentional actions
Publication year: 2026
Abstract/Results:
ABSTRACT:
Background
The cognitive neuroscience of volition investigates how intentional decisions lead to voluntary actions and to awareness of their outcomes. Previous work has mainly focused on purposeless actions, leaving motivated behaviours relatively unexplored.
Aims
This project examined how reward-related information shapes two core components of volition: motor intentionality and sense of agency.
Methods
Two behavioural and fMRI studies were developed, piloted and completed. Study 1 compared intention-driven and stimulus-driven key presses in Money and Control tasks. Study 2 compared active and passive actions followed by monetary or neutral outcomes to assess implicit and explicit agency. Behavioural pilots included 24 healthy young adults per study; the fMRI experiments included final samples of 30 participants per study.
Results
Study 1 showed longer response times for intention-driven actions and a stronger tendency to choose winning outcomes in the monetary context. fMRI results showed greater supplementary motor area activation for intentional than stimulus-driven actions and increased nucleus accumbens activation during intentional actions in the Money task. Study 2 showed higher agency judgments for active than passive actions, especially after monetary gains and temporally contingent outcomes. fMRI results showed activation of the fronto-parietal agency network and ventral tegmental area during active actions followed by monetary outcomes.
Conclusions
Reward shapes both action generation and the experience of control, supporting a model in which volitional, agency-related and reward-processing systems interact during motivated voluntary behaviour.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Zapparoli, L.
Secondary author(s):
Devoto, F.
Document type:
Final report
Number of reproductions:
1
Reference:
Zapparoli, L., & Devoto, F. (2026). Final report - How reward shapes volition: Neural correlates of motivated intentional actions
Indexed document: No
Keywords: Human volition / Reward / Motor intentionality / Sense of agency / fMRI

Final report - How reward shapes volition: Neural correlates of motivated intentional actions

Final report - How reward shapes volition: Neural correlates of motivated intentional actions