99112 - Non Invasive Brain Stimulation: Methods and Applications

Learning outcomes

At the end of the teaching activity, the student: - knows the main methods of non-invasive brain stimulation; - knows the applications of non-invasive brain stimulation protocols for rehabilitation purposes in different types of patients; - will be able to critically read an experimental study of non-invasive brain stimulation, to evaluate its methods and results and comment on the conclusions; - will know how to autonomously set up a research project involving non-invasive brain stimulation.

Course contents

The course aims to provide the acquisition of basic and advanced knowledge on some of the main non-invasive brain stimulation techniques, of the related experimental paradigms (single-pulse TMS, rTMS, MEPs, Theta-Burst, ccPAS, tDCS) and their use in the field of cognitive neuroscience, for the study of the normal and pathological functioning of the brain and as a potential tool for rehabilitation intervention.

The main objective of the course is to provide adequate knowledge aimed at the correct use of the guidelines for applying brain stimulation. The course is also aimed at acquiring the ability to know how to autonomously use the scientific literature on brain stimulation in order to critically analyze various issues of cognitive neuroscience, to establish correlations between cognitive aspects and brain events, to understand the 'use of stimulation techniques and protocols for the evaluation of the normal and pathological functioning of the human brain and for treatment in the clinical setting.

Readings/Bibliography

Scientific articles and other material related to the lectures (e.g. slides) will be available on the course website. The study of the teaching material is necessary to pass the final exam.

Teaching methods

Lessons in which the topics of the program are addressed and discussed in a manner, the discussion of neuroscientific articles, individual works (presentation of research projects that involve the use of non-invasive frontal brain exercise techniques) with the presentation to the class.

Assessment methods

Verification of learning will take place through the final exam in oral mode, which ascertains the acquisition of the expected knowledge about the basic principles of operation and use of the main brain stimulation techniques for the study of cognitive processes in the healthy individual and for patient rehabilitation; use of the guidelines of the main stimulation techniques in studies on healthy volunteers and in the clinical setting; ability to explain in a clear and articulated way the theoretical premises, the structure, the method and the results of research and to be able to express one's own interpretations, ideas, and conclusions in an autonomous way.

The exam consists of an oral test, with open questions relating to the topics in the exam program, with specific reference to the lessons and material suggested for the preparation of the exam.

The exam is considered passed with a minimum grade of 18/30.

The assessment will be based on the following grading criteria:

Grade 18–20: Responses are satisfactory or just satisfactory, demonstrating a superficial knowledge of the topics and a limited understanding of the relevant literature. The ability to elaborate on the content is basic and lacks depth.

Grade 21–23: Responses are fair, reflecting an overall adequate but not consistently in-depth preparation. Knowledge of the relevant literature is sufficient, although not always detailed, and the ability to critically elaborate on the content is only partially developed.

Grade 24–26: Responses are good, demonstrating a generally solid knowledge of the topics and a satisfactory level of engagement with the relevant literature. The content is presented accurately and coherently, with a good ability to synthesize information.

Grade 27–30: Responses are comprehensive or highly comprehensive, characterized by an in-depth knowledge of the relevant literature and a strong ability to critically analyze and elaborate on the content.

Grade 30 cum laude: Responses are outstanding, demonstrating complete and thorough mastery of the topics, an exceptionally advanced level of critical analysis, and extensive independent integration of the literature.

During the examination, the use of supporting materials such as textbooks, notes, or electronic devices is not permitted. With regard to the assessment of learning outcomes, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools is strictly prohibited. Any use of AI constitutes a violation of academic integrity.

Registration for the exam is mandatory and must be done through the AlmaEsami website, strictly adhering to the specified deadlines. Those who encounter technical issues preventing them from registering by the designated date must promptly communicate the problem to the academic staff and send an email to Prof. Borgomaneri before the official closure of the registration lists. It will be at the discretion of the Professor to allow them to take the exam.

Students with learning disorders and\or temporary or permanent disabilities: please, contact the office responsible ( [https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en/for-students] ) as soon as possible so that they can propose acceptable adjustments. The request for adaptation must be submitted in advance (15 days before the exam date) to the lecturer, who will assess the appropriateness of the adjustments, taking into account the teaching objectives

Teaching tools

Slides (PowerPoint) and video clips

Office hours

See the website of Sara Borgomaneri