Skip to main content

ORIGINAL RESEARCH article

Front. Hum. Neurosci., 22 June 2023
Sec. Brain Imaging and Stimulation
This article is part of the Research Topic Perspectives in Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation and Neuromodulation View all 7 articles

Bibliometric mapping of non-invasive brain stimulation techniques (NIBS) for fluent speech production

  • Laboratory of Neuroscience and Behavior, Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasília, Brazil

Introduction: Language production is a finely regulated process, with many aspects which still elude comprehension. From a motor perspective, speech involves over a hundred different muscles functioning in coordination. As science and technology evolve, new approaches are used to study speech production and treat its disorders, and there is growing interest in the use of non-invasive modulation by means of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS).

Methods: Here we analyzed data obtained from Scopus (Elsevier) using VOSViewer to provide an overview of bibliographic mapping of citation, co-occurrence of keywords, co-citation and bibliographic coupling of non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) use in speech research.

Results: In total, 253 documents were found, being 55% from only three countries (USA, Germany and Italy), with emerging economies such as Brazil and China becoming relevant in this topic recently. Most documents were published in this last decade, with 2022 being the most productive yet, showing brain stimulation has untapped potential for the speech research field.

Discussion: Keyword analysis indicates a move away from basic research on the motor control in healthy speech, toward clinical applications such as stuttering and aphasia treatment. We also observe a recent trend in cerebellar modulation for clinical treatment. Finally, we discuss how NIBS have established over the years and gained prominence as tools in speech therapy and research, and highlight potential methodological possibilities for future research.

Introduction

The wealth of readily available information is one of the hallmarks of our age. As any research field grows, growth becomes an important measure for science (Moral-Muñoz et al., 2020), allowing scientists to identify new trends in research, hotspots of production, and collaboration clusters around the world. Bibliometric (or scientometric) mapping is a systematic and unbiased way to visually represent the structure and dynamics of a specific research field based on citations, co-citations, and keywords, which are based on the quantitative analysis of published data. Bibliographic coupling identifies similarities in scientific articles based on their interlinked references. By analyzing shared references from multiple articles, it is possible to determine how closely these articles are related to each other and how they contribute to a given field of research. By examining the bibliographic coupling between a set of documents, it is possible to identify groups of related research and follow the evolution of a given field over time (van Eck and Waltman, 2017; José de Oliveira et al., 2019). Examples of software that perform this type of analysis are CiteSpace, bibExcel, and VOSViewer (Sun et al., 2022a).

Fluent speech refers to the production of speech that is smooth, effortless, and coherent, characterized by the absence of speech disruptions such as hesitations, repetitions, revisions, and dysfluencies. Its production relies on the seamless coordination of cognitive, linguistic, and motor control of multiple structures including the diaphragm, larynx, tongue, and lips (Neef et al., 2015). Relevant brain regions involved in this process are the left inferior frontal gyrus (LIFG, historically known as Broca's area) and the premotor cortices, which implement speech motor plans required to convey spoken language; and the posterior superior temporal gyrus, responsible for storing phonetic representations (or sound “blueprints”), is involved in auditory learning (Hickok and Poeppel, 2007; Hickok, 2012). This neural pathway, known as the “dorsal stream”, is left-lateralized in the brain of most people (Hickok and Poeppel, 2007; Hickok, 2012) and is central in the study of the neurobiology of speech production.

Non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) techniques are divided into two main groups as follows: transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), which employs magnetic fields to modulate the brain excitability, and transcranial electrical stimulation (TES), which applies electrical currents directly to the scalp in order to achieve neural modulation (Polanía et al., 2018). TES techniques include transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), and transcranial random noise stimulation (tRNS). NIBS was first developed in the context of motor control research, and the seminal research by Pascual-Leone and collaborators in the 90s, showing the therapeutic effect of repeated TMS (rTMS) on major depression (Pascual-Leone et al., 1996), sparked an upsurge of interest in NIBS, both in clinical and experimental settings.

NIBS techniques can be applied to investigate causality between brain areas and specific processes (such as in speech), given that they modify brain activity in a temporary and reversible manner. This allows researchers to promote or inhibit local neuronal activation, to effectively simulate cortical lesions and modulate brain activity painlessly (Nitsche and Paulus, 2000, 2001; Woods et al., 2016; Fertonani and Miniussi, 2017). The sheer increase in publications observed in the last decade makes it clear that NIBS techniques have been established as valuable tools to study language (Flöel et al., 2008; Nitsche et al., 2008; Fiori et al., 2011; Jacobson et al., 2012; Monti et al., 2013; Rufener et al., 2017, 2019; Zoefel and Davis, 2017; Balboa-Bandeira et al., 2021; Sun et al., 2022b) and language disorders such as aphasia (Torres et al., 2013; Turkeltaub, 2015; Meinzer et al., 2016) and stuttering (Thiel et al., 2006; Chesters et al., 2018; Busan et al., 2019; Karsan et al., 2022).

Here, we provide a bibliometric coupling analysis of the studies on the use of NIBS for the motor aspects of speech since its beginning in the 90s. Although such analysis does not answer any specific research question, it may contribute to advances in the field by (1) helping researchers and stakeholders to understand the structure, development, and interconnections of scientific knowledge; (2) uncovering patterns of collaboration and novel potential intersections, fostering interdisciplinary research and innovation; (3) informing research policy, resource allocation, and strategic decision-making at the institutional, national, and international levels based on research impact; and (4) highlighting research gaps and guide future research directions as well as novel topics worth exploring in further studies (José de Oliveira et al., 2019; Donthu et al., 2021).

Materials and methods

Data obtained from Elsevier (Scopus) were collected and used for a global analysis of the literature on NIBS and speech fluency. The search parameters used in the ‘Advanced document search' in Scopus were: TITLE-ABS-KEY (transcranial AND electrical OR magnetic OR current AND stimulation AND motor) AND TITLE-ABS-KEY(speech AND NOT perception AND NOT “deep brain stimulation”). The access date was April 2023. Additional parameters used in VOSViewer for the analysis of the data extracted from Scopus are presented in Table 1.

TABLE 1
www.frontiersin.org

Table 1. Parameters used in VOSViewer for analysis of bibliography gathered from Scopus.

Initially, a total of 363 documents were acquired in Scopus using the search parameters indicated above. Although the search string focused on NIBS and motor control of speech, some uncorrelated studies contained our keywords in the title or abstract. We individually examined each document to assess its thematic coherence with our research, specifically focusing on articles that explored the use of NIBS applied to treat or enhance speech production, including review articles. Studies that did not include NIBS and speech production in the experimental design (or review scope) were removed (110 removals). A final subset of 253 documents was selected for further analysis. Due to a noticeable change in the scope and methods employed in most studies in the 2010s (discussed further in the Results section), data were further divided into two-time segments, spanning from 1994 to 2011 and from 2012 to 2023.

In our analyses, we used VOSviewer (version 1.6.18), a software tool designed for mapping scientific landscapes: bibliometric maps can visually represent the network interactions of a field, illustrating the relationships between different areas, subfields, and research clusters, by means of plotting keyword co-occurrence and citation pattern. Co-occurrence refers to the presence of two or more keywords in the same document. Information of interest comprised the year of publication, language, country, title, author, affiliation, keywords, document type, abstract, and citations. All 253 results were exported in CSV format and synthesized into visual displays in VOSViewer.

For a network view, each item is represented by a circle. The size of an item's circle is determined by its influence. The color of an item is determined by the group of items belonging to the lines between the items that represent the correlation. In general, the closer two items are located, the stronger their relationship. The strongest co-citation links between items are also represented by the lines.

Results

We found a marked difference in our analysis regarding the scope of studies across time. Particularly, from 1994 to 2011, the focus of research on NIBS techniques was mainly the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to address neural mechanisms underlying speech production and perception in healthy subjects. For instance, the first published paper that met our search criteria was Speech localization using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (Jennum et al., 1994). During this period, researchers also began to explore tDCS in speech research, demonstrating that the technique could modulate cortical excitability and improve speech perception and production (Pulvermüller, 2005; Flöel et al., 2008).

From 2012 to 2023, there has been an increased focus on the use of NIBS techniques for the treatment of speech and language disorders. In particular, there has been growing interest in the use of tDCS with clinical applications for post-stroke speech rehabilitation, stuttering, and aphasia and also neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and other diseases that entail language loss (Holland and Crinion, 2012; Brewer et al., 2013; Flöel, 2014). Overall, the evolution of the first decade of NIBS was characterized by the use of TMS and its refinement and by the emergence of tDCS for speech research. In the following decade, the focus shifted to the development of protocols that concentrated on clinical applications for speech and language disorders.

In Figure 1, the heatmap of all countries that have published articles that met the selection criteria is shown. The top 10 countries that contributed with most published articles to the field in the past 30 years are highlighted, with the total number of articles indicated. Geographical analysis in Figure 2A shows that from 1994 to 2011, nine countries were the sources of the most cited documents on NIBS and speech, while 17 countries were identified from 2012 to 2023 (Figure 2B), indicating the decentralization of this research field. The United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Australia are constant in their prominence across both time periods.

FIGURE 1
www.frontiersin.org

Figure 1. Map of published articles using NIBS to study speech motor aspects. Colored countries have contributed to one or more manuscripts, as indicated by the color bar above. The top 10 countries that most contributed to the field are highlighted, and the number of articles is indicated.

FIGURE 2
www.frontiersin.org

Figure 2. Visual displays of bibliographic data on the use of NIBS for speech motor aspects in two different time periods. Items analyzed were countries (A, B), co-occurrence of keywords (C, D), and citations (E, F).

Keywords' co-occurrence grew from 153 to 469 over the 29 years analyzed, with 21 keywords divided into six clusters in 1994–2011 and 22 keywords divided into five clusters in 2012–2023 (Figures 2C, D, and Table 1), which demonstrates the diffusion of NIBS in various speech research subfields. Transcranial direct current stimulation and transcranial magnetic stimulation were constant across both time periods (Figures 2C, D).

Finally, document citation analysis identified seven citation clusters between 1994 and 2011 and seven different clusters between 2012 and 2023. Examples of the most cited studies in the first time period are the studies by Jennum et al. (1994) and Tokimura et al. (1996), whereas the second time period has studies by Picht et al. (2013), Busan et al. (2019), and Chesters et al. (2018) (Figures 2E, F). This section is further discussed below.

Discussion

The insertion of neuromodulation in speech-related fields

We have presented a comprehensive analysis of the scholarly intersection between speech and non-invasive neuromodulation through a bibliometric review of relevant literature. Keyword analysis shows that before 2012, TMS was the technique most frequently featured in the literature. The recurrence of some keywords associated with TMS illustrates the exploratory nature of early studies, attempting to modulate whole networks (“language”, “speech”) and possible relationships between speech and overall behavior and comprehension (“cognition” and “mirror neurons”). There are also researchers trying to bridge some of the theoretical knowledge with clinical treatment, as disorders such as aphasia, stuttering, and Parkinson's (which has an associated dysarthria aspect) appear in the keywords. As we move further into the 2010s, those applications are established and remain relevant in research. New keywords that appear at this time are “neuroplasticity”, probably due to continuous corroboration of the neuroplastic effects provided by repeated TMS and tDCS protocols; and “cerebellum”, probably derived from the still-growing explorations of cognitive and noncognitive functions of the cerebellum (Bostan and Strick, 2018; Lametti et al., 2018; Van Overwalle et al., 2020; Wilkinson et al., 2020).

Key studies from 1994 to 2012 reflect a strong initial focus on the mapping of language as a whole in humans, including speech functions. A few examples of such studies include Meister et al. (2003) and Flöel et al. (2008). All those studies use mainly TMS as an exploration tool or rehabilitation. The red cluster (Figure 2E) seems to represent some of the base work for further explorations, such as Tokimura et al. (1996), that first binds lateralized speech and motor excitability. We see the pioneer explorations of varied aspects of the language system by TMS (Flitman et al., 1998; Töpper et al., 1998; Epstein et al., 1999; Khedr et al., 2002). The other clusters, also composed of more recent studies, will be more driven toward the motor aspects of speech, with collaborations of the sensory system (Sparing et al., 2007; Mock et al., 2011), or possible parallels with jaw movements (Sowman et al., 2009), or possible singing processes (Lo and Fook-Chong, 2004).

From 2012 onward, there are emerging themes well defined by the clusters presented in Figure 2F. The red cluster, with Picht et al. (2013) as an evident representative, now focuses on non-invasive (mostly TMS) characterization of networks in healthy, awake humans, and on the neurosurgery context, symbolizing the shift toward clinical aspects we have commented above. Following these footsteps, the green and light blue clusters are mostly dedicated to stuttering (Chesters et al., 2018; Garnett et al., 2019; Yada et al., 2019), one of the speech disorders where motor aspects seem to be of most relevance. This builds upon earlier studies that first delved into stuttering, such as Sommer et al. (2003). The yellow cluster represents the exploration of cerebro-cerebellum networks related to speech motor control. Recent studies on how the cerebellum is a promising therapeutic target for neuromodulation probably played a part in this new avenue for modulating speech (Ferrucci et al., 2015, 2016; Grimaldi et al., 2016). The remaining clusters concern possible applications of neuromodulation for aphasia (Torres et al., 2013; Turkeltaub, 2015; Meinzer et al., 2016). The appearance of aphasia in motor explorations of language may seem odd, as aphasia is primarily not considered a speech motor disorder, but it seems to derive from the desire to explore the motor system as a gateway into recovery, or the possible unexplored motor aspects of aphasia.

Current and future technique uses

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) was the pioneer technique in neuromodulation, created in 1985 (Barker et al., 1985), and it has been explored both in research (Thiel et al., 2006; Thielscher et al., 2015) and therapy (Lotze et al., 2006; Grossman et al., 2017). It was the main option for brain modulation until 2000 when Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) was created by Nitsche and Paulus. Since then, there is intense growth of research in this area, which might be due to the appearance of an option that is cheaper and easier to apply (TMS must always be applied by a trained physician due to safety issues). We also see in our data tDCS growing as another NIBS option (Torres et al., 2013; Chesters et al., 2018; Stahl et al., 2019).

From 1994 to 2011, there is a clear dominance of TMS for language, changing radically over the last 10 years when it starts to share more space with tDCS. “tDCS” as a keyword has 27 occurrences from 2012 to 2023, whereas, in the 1994–2011 period, it has only two occurrences (data not shown). For comparison, “TMS” has 23 appearances in the earlier period and 91 for the later period. Considering tDCS is presented as a tool in two seminal studies by Nitsche and Paulus in 2000 and 2001, this speaks to the time necessary for a technique to be inserted in any specific field. Its rapid growth may be a consequence of specific characteristics of tDCS in comparison to TMS, such as being a cheaper technique that demands less operational expertise (Priori et al., 2009).

There were no studies exploring transcranial random noise stimulation (tRNS) in our results. Only two of them explored transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS); one about speech comprehension in people with aphasia post-stroke (Xie et al., 2022), and the other discussed proposed mechanisms for the effects of this modulation (Vogeti et al., 2022). This low number of studies might be due to a temporal bias as they have been developed more recently (Antal et al., 2008; Terney et al., 2008). There is, however, potential for these recent NIBS techniques in the field.

More recent NIBS techniques such as tRNS and tACS have been used for studying language but largely as markers of cognitive performance than as a process itself or mostly speech perception. Outside of our Scopus string focus, most of the studies using tACS or tRNS explore possible mechanisms of modulation and potential uses for cognition and motor rehabilitation in general. Few studies using tACS for language specifically focus on speech perception (Rufener et al., 2016a,b; Baltus et al., 2018; Riecke et al., 2018; Wilsch et al., 2018; Nooristani et al., 2021) and aphasia due to stroke (Fedorov et al., 2010). Similarly, for tRNS, there are studies found on general language, exploring the overall processing of auditory information (Rufener et al., 2017) and dichotic right-ear advantage (Prete et al., 2018). It may be evident that those themes, as well as the timing of their appearance in tACS and tRNS studies, resemble themes previously explored by TMS and tDCS studies. As such, we are of the opinion that this suggests an ongoing phase of acquiring information about applications and the intricate workings of those newly developed methods, which will subsequently be employed in addressing particular motor disorders.

tACS has been used to facilitate speech perception (Zoefel and Davis, 2017; Zoefel et al., 2018) using synchronized oscillations, which might also be gateways to facilitating fluency of speech (Busan et al., 2019). For example, tACS has a strong potential for modulating subcortical brain regions (Hess, 2013; Hashimoto and Karima, 2017), opening up plenty of opportunities to noninvasively explore the insula and other areas of interest for language. In the same way, tDCS has established itself as an alternative to studying speech detriment to TMS, and tACS might find its own niche in non-invasive deep brain stimulation. Even though the mechanisms and clinical applications of random noise stimulation are still under discussion (Brancucci et al., 2023), there is evidence of its capacity to modulate the motor cortex (Potok et al., 2022) and enhance motor sequence learning (Terney et al., 2008). It could also be interesting for considering inter-individual differences in brain activities, as tRNS may be able to amplify oscillations relevant to a particular task being executed. Overall, both these techniques represent a totally new approach, where we modulate brain oscillations instead of firing rates, which may allow for more anatomical and/or function specificity (Heimrath et al., 2016).

Finally, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first attempt to provide a bibliometric perspective on the use of neuromodulation to study the motor aspects of speech. Other analyses, such as systematic reviews, are useful to provide a comprehensive perspective of any field. However, as reviews favor the evidence level of quality, they may fail to grasp some other relevant aspects. The bibliometric analysis allows us to see “the evolutionary nuances of well-established fields” (Donthu et al., 2021), where we can observe geographical and thematic trends, and this is what we aimed for here. We can see how the growth of speech production as a research field is tightly linked to the development of technology. Furthermore, as evidenced by the exponential increase in results that we have observed, researchers would do well to consider the upcoming techniques of neuromodulation as they hold great promise for their methodological questions on speech.

Conclusion

In summary, the bibliographic analysis conducted in this study revealed trends related to geography, technology, and themes over the past three decades in the field of NIBS applied to speech. There has been a transition from physiological descriptions of language and speech production toward the validation of its therapeutic applications. Looking ahead, future research should explore promising techniques such as tACS and tRNS, which offer significant potential for investigating speech. By providing a historical perspective, this study aims to offer guidance to prospective researchers in the field, aiding their methodological decisions and leading to more robust findings.

Data availability statement

The raw data supporting the conclusions of this article will be made available by the authors, without undue reservation.

Author contributions

FVC conceived the study. WM and TB were responsible for data collection and initial analysis. All authors participated in the data analysis, manuscript drafting, contributed to the article, and approved the submitted version.

Funding

FVC was supported by the grants 04/2021 from Fundação de Apoio ã Pesquisa do Distrito Federal (FAPDF, grant #30023.128.46472.04012022) and DPI/DPG/BCE n.01/2023 from the University of Brasilia (UnB).

Acknowledgments

The authors thank Concepta McManus for inspiration, technical support with the bibliometric analysis, and text revision.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Publisher's note

All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article, or claim that may be made by its manufacturer, is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

References

Antal, A., Boros, K., Poreisz, C., Chaieb, L., Terney, D., and Paulus, W. (2008). Comparatively weak after-effects of transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) on cortical excitability in humans. Brain Stimul. 1, 97–105. doi: 10.1016/j.brs.2007.10.001

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Balboa-Bandeira, Y., Zubiaurre-Elorza, L., Ibarretxe-Bilbao, N., Ojeda, N., and Peña, J. (2021). Effects of transcranial electrical stimulation techniques on second and foreign language learning enhancement in healthy adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Neuropsychologia. 160, 107985. doi: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2021.107985

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Baltus, A., Wagner, S., Wolters, C. H., and Herrmann, C. S. (2018). Optimized auditory transcranial alternating current stimulation improves individual auditory temporal resolution. Brain Stimul. 11, 118–124. doi: 10.1016/j.brs.2017.10.008

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Barker, A. T., Jalinous, R., and Freeston, I. L. (1985). Non-invasive magnetic stimulation of human motor cortex. Lancet. 325, 1106–1107. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(85)92413-4

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Bostan, A. C., and Strick, P. L. (2018). The basal ganglia and the cerebellum: Nodes in an integrated network. Nat. Rev. Neurosci. 19, 338–350. doi: 10.1038/s41583-018-0002-7

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Brancucci, A., Rivolta, D., Nitsche, M. A., and Manippa, V. (2023). The effects of transcranial random noise stimulation on motor function: a comprehensive review of the literature. Physiol. Behav. 114073. doi: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2023.114073

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Brewer, L., Horgan, F., Hickey, A., and Williams, D. (2013). Stroke rehabilitation: recent advances and future therapies. QJM. 106, 11–25. doi: 10.1093/qjmed/hcs174

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Busan, P., Del Ben, G., Russo, L. R., Bernardini, S., Natarelli, G., Arcara, G., et al. (2019). Stuttering as a matter of delay in neural activation: A combined TMS/EEG study. Clini. Neurophysiol. 130, 61–76. doi: 10.1016/j.clinph.2018.10.005

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Chesters, J., Möttönen, R., and Watkins, K. E. (2018). Transcranial direct current stimulation over left inferior frontal cortex improves speech fluency in adults who stutter. Brain. 944–946, awy011. doi: 10.1093/brain/awy011

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Donthu, N., Kumar, S., Mukherjee, D., Pandey, N., and Lim, W. M. (2021). How to conduct a bibliometric analysis: an overview and guidelines. J. Bus. Res. 133, 285–296. doi: 10.1016/j.jbusres.2021.04.070

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Epstein, C. M., Meador, K. J., Loring, D. W., Wright, R. J., Weissman, J. D., Sheppard, S., et al. (1999). Localization and characterization of speech arrest during transcranial magnetic stimulation. Clini. Neurophysiol. 110, 1073–1079. doi: 10.1016/S1388-2457(99)00047-4

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Fedorov, A., Chibisova, Y., Szymaszek, A., Alexandrov, M., Gall, C., and Sabel, B. A. (2010). Non-invasive alternating current stimulation induces recovery from stroke. Restor. Neurol. Neurosci. 28, 825–833. doi: 10.3233/RNN-2010-0580

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Ferrucci, R., Bocci, T., Cortese, F., Ruggiero, F., and Priori, A. (2016). Cerebellar transcranial direct current stimulation in neurological disease. Cerebellum Ataxias. 3, 1–8. doi: 10.1186/s40673-016-0054-2

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Ferrucci, R., Cortese, F., and Priori, A. (2015). Cerebellar tDCS: how to do it. Cerebellum. 14, 27–30. doi: 10.1007/s12311-014-0599-7

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Fertonani, A., and Miniussi, C. (2017). Transcranial electrical stimulation: What we know and do not know about mechanisms. Neuroscientist. 23, 109–123. doi: 10.1177/1073858416631966

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Fiori, V., Coccia, M., Marinelli, C. V., Vecchi, V., Bonifazi, S., Gabriella Ceravolo, M., et al. (2011). Transcranial direct current stimulation improves word retrieval in healthy and nonfluent aphasic subjects. J. Cogn. Neurosci. 23, 2309–2323. doi: 10.1162/jocn.2010.21579

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Flitman, S. S., Grafman, J., Wassermann, E. M., Cooper, V., O'Grady, J., Pascual-Leone, A., et al. (1998). Linguistic processing during repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation. Neurology. 50, 175–181. doi: 10.1212/WNL.50.1.175

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Flöel, A. (2014). tDCS-enhanced motor and cognitive function in neurological diseases. Neuroimage. 85, 934–947. doi: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2013.05.098

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Flöel, A., Rösser, N., Michka, O., Knecht, S., and Breitenstein, C. (2008). Noninvasive brain stimulation improves language learning. J. Cogn. Neurosci. 20, 1415–1422. doi: 10.1162/jocn.2008.20098

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Garnett, E. O., Chow, H. M., Choo, A. L., and Chang, S. E. (2019). Stuttering severity modulates effects of non-invasive brain stimulation in adults who stutter. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 13, 1–10. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2019.00411

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Grimaldi, G., Argyropoulos, G. P., Bastian, A., Cortes, M., Davis, N. J., Edwards, D. J., et al. (2016). Cerebellar transcranial direct current stimulation (ctDCS) a novel approach to understanding cerebellar function in health and disease. The Neuroscientist 22, 83–97. doi: 10.1177/1073858414559409

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Grossman, N., Bono, D., Dedic, N., Kodandaramaiah, S. B., Rudenko, A., Suk, H. J., et al. (2017). Noninvasive deep brain stimulation via temporally interfering electric fields. Cell 169 1029–1041.e16. doi: 10.1016/j.cell.2017.05.024

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Hashimoto, R. H., and Karima, A. K. (2017). Improvement in auditory verbal memory induced by theta tACS to bilateral dorsal prefrontal cortex. Brain Stimulat. 10, 426. doi: 10.1016/j.brs.2017.01.267

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Heimrath, K., Fiene, M., Rufener, K. S., and Zaehle, T. (2016). Modulating human auditory processing by transcranial electrical stimulation. Front. Cell. Neurosci. 10, 53. doi: 10.3389/fncel.2016.00053

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Hess, C. W. (2013). Modulation of cortical-subcortical networks in Parkinson's disease by applied field effects. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 7, 565. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2013.00565

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Hickok, G. (2012). The cortical organization of speech processing: Feedback control and predictive coding the context of a dual-stream model. J. Commun. Disord. 45, 393–402. doi: 10.1016/j.jcomdis.2012.06.004

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Hickok, G., and Poeppel, D. (2007). The cortical organization of speech processing. Nat. Rev. Neurosci. 8, 393–402. doi: 10.1038/nrn2113

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Holland, R., and Crinion, J. (2012). Can tDCS enhance treatment of aphasia after stroke?. Aphasiology. 26, 1169–1191. doi: 10.1080/02687038.2011.616925

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Jacobson, L., Koslowsky, M., and Lavidor, M. (2012). TDCS polarity effects in motor and cognitive domains: a meta-analytical review. Exp. Brain Res. 216, 1–10. doi: 10.1007/s00221-011-2891-9

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Jennum, P., Friberg, L., Fuglsang-Frederiksen, A., and Dam, M. (1994). Speech localization using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation. Neurology. 44, 269–269.

PubMed Abstract | Google Scholar

José de Oliveira, O., Francisco da Silva, F., Juliani, F., César Ferreira Motta Barbosa, L., and Vieira Nunhes, T. (2019). “Bibliometric Method for Mapping the State-of-the-Art and Identifying Research Gaps and Trends in Literature: An Essential Instrument to Support the Development of Scientific Projects,” in Scientometrics Recent Advances (London: IntechOpen). doi: 10.5772/intechopen.85856

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Karsan, Ç., Özdemir, R. S., Bulut, T., and Hanoglu, L. (2022). The effects of single-session cathodal and bihemispheric tDCS on fluency in stuttering. J. Neurolinguistics. 63. doi: 10.1016/j.jneuroling.2022.101064

CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Khedr, E. M., Hamed, E., Said, A., and Basahi, J. (2002). Handedness and language cerebral lateralization. Eur. J. Appl. Physiol. 87, 469–473. doi: 10.1007/s00421-002-0652-y

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Lametti, D. R., Smith, H. J., Freidin, P. F., and Watkins, K. E. (2018). Cortico-cerebellar networks drive sensorimotor learning in speech. J. Cogn. Neurosci. 30, 540–551. doi: 10.1162/jocn_a_01216

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Lo, Y. L., and Fook-Chong, S. (2004). Ipsilateral and contralateral motor inhibitory control in musical and vocalization tasks. Exp. Brain Res. 159, 258–262. doi: 10.1007/s00221-004-2032-9

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Lotze, M., Markert, J., Sauseng, P., Hoppe, J., Plewnia, C., and Gerloff, C. (2006). The role of multiple contralesional motor areas for complex hand movements after internal capsular lesion. J. Neurosci. 26, 6096–6102. doi: 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.4564-05.2006

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Meinzer, M., Darkow, R., Lindenberg, R., and Flöel, A. (2016). Electrical stimulation of the motor cortex enhances treatment outcome in post-stroke aphasia. Brain. 139, 1152–1163. doi: 10.1093/brain/aww002

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Meister, I. G., Boroojerdi, B., Foltys, H., Sparing, R., Huber, W., and Töpper, R. (2003). Motor cortex hand area and speech: implications for the development of language. Neuropsychologia. 41, 401–406. doi: 10.1016/s0028-3932(02)00179-3

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Mock, J. R., Foundas, A. L., and Golob, E. J. (2011). Modulation of sensory and motor cortex activity during speech preparation. Eur. J. Neurosci. 33, 1001–1011. doi: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2010.07585.x

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Monti, A., Ferrucci, R., Fumagalli, M., Mameli, F., Cogiamanian, F., Ardolino, G., et al. (2013). Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and language. J. Neurol. Neurosurg. Psychiatr. 84, 832–842. doi: 10.1136/jnnp-2012-302825

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Moral-Muñoz, J. A., Herrera-Viedma, E., Santisteban-Espejo, A., and Cobo, M. J. (2020). Software tools for conducting bibliometric analysis in science: An up-to-date review. Profesional de la información 29. doi: 10.3145/epi.2020.ene.03

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Neef, N. E., Anwander, A., and Friederici, A. D. (2015). The neurobiological grounding of persistent stuttering: from structure to function. Curr. Neurol. Neurosci. Rep. 15. doi: 10.1007/s11910-015-0579-4

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Nitsche, M. A., Cohen, L. G., Wassermann, E. M., Priori, A., Lang, N., Antal, A., et al. (2008). Transcranial direct current stimulation: state of the art 2008. Brain Stimul. 1, 206–223. doi: 10.1016/j.brs.2008.06.004

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Nitsche, M. A., and Paulus, W. (2000). Excitability changes induced in th human motor cortex by weak Tdcs. J. Physiol. 527, 633–639. doi: 10.1111/j.1469-7793.2000.t01-1-00633.x

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Nitsche, M. A., and Paulus, W. (2001). Sustained excitability elevations induced by transcranial DC motor cortex stimulation in humans. Neurology. 57, 1899–1901. doi: 10.1212/WNL.57.10.1899

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Nooristani, M., Augereau, T., Moïn-Darbari, K., Bacon, B.-A., and Champoux, F. (2021). Using transcranial electrical stimulation in audiological practice: the gaps to be filled. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 15, 735561. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2021.735561

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Pascual-Leone, A., Rubio, B., Pallard,ó, F., and Catal,á, M. D. (1996). Rapid-rate transcranial magnetic stimulation of left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in drug-resistant depression. Lancet. 348, 233–237. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(96)01219-6

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Picht, T., Krieg, S. M., Sollmann, N., Rösler, J., Niraula, B., Neuvonen, T., et al. (2013). A comparison of language mapping by preoperative navigated transcranial magnetic stimulation and direct cortical stimulation during awake surgery. Neurosurgery. 72, 808–819. doi: 10.1227/NEU.0b013e3182889e01

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Polanía, R., Nitsche, M. A., and Ruff, C. C. (2018). Studying and modifying brain function with non-invasive brain stimulation. Nat. Neurosci. 21, 174–187. doi: 10.1038/s41593-017-0054-4

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Potok, W., Van der Groen, O., Bächinger, M., Edwards, D., and Wenderoth, N. (2022). Transcranial random noise stimulation modulates neural processing of sensory and motor circuits, from potential cellular Mechanisms to behavior: a scoping review. eNeuro. 9, ENEURO.0248-21.2021. doi: 10.1523/ENEURO.0248-21.2021

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Prete, G., D'Anselmo, A., Tommasi, L., and Brancucci, A. (2018). Modulation of the dichotic right ear advantage during bilateral but not unilateral transcranial random noise stimulation. Brain Cogn. 123, 81–88. doi: 10.1016/j.bandc.2018.03.003

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Priori, A., Hallett, M., and Rothwell, J. C. (2009). Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation or transcranial direct current stimulation? Brain Stimul. 2, 241–245. doi: 10.1016/j.brs.2009.02.004

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Pulvermüller, F. (2005). Brain mechanisms linking language and action. Nat. Rev. Neurosci. 6, 576–582. doi: 10.1038/nrn1706

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Riecke, L., Formisano, E., Sorger, B., Başkent, D., and Gaudrain, E. (2018). Neural entrainment to speech modulates speech intelligibility. Curr. Biol. 28, 161–169. doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2017.11.033

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Rufener, K. S., Krauel, K., Meyer, M., Heinze, H.-J., and Zaehle, T. (2019). Transcranial electrical stimulation improves phoneme processing in developmental dyslexia. Brain Stimul. 12, 930–937. doi: 10.1016/j.brs.2019.02.007

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Rufener, K. S., Oechslin, M. S., Zaehle, T., and Meyer, M. (2016a). Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation (tACS) differentially modulates speech perception in young and older adults. Brain Stimul. 9, 560–565. doi: 10.1016/j.brs.2016.04.002

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Rufener, K. S., Ruhnau, P., Heinze, H.-J., and Zaehle, T. (2017). Transcranial random noise stimulation (tRNS) shapes the processing of rapidly changing auditory information. Front. Cell. Neurosci. 11, 162. doi: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00162

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Rufener, K. S., Zaehle, T., Oechslin, M. S., and Meyer, M. (2016b). 40 Hz-Transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) selectively modulates speech perception. Int. J. Psychophysiol. 101, 18–24. doi: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2016.01.002

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Sommer, M., Wischer, S., Tergau, F., and Paulus, W. (2003). Normal intracortical excitability in developmental stuttering. Movement Dis. 18, 826–830. doi: 10.1002/mds.10443

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Sowman, P. F., Flavel, S. C., McShane, C. L., Sakuma, S., Miles, T. S., and Nordstrom, M. A. (2009). Asymmetric activation of motor cortex controlling human anterior digastric muscles during speech and target-directed jaw movements. J. Neurophysiol. 102, 159–166. doi: 10.1152/jn.90894.2008

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Sparing, R., Meister, I. G., Wienemann, M., Buelte, D., Staedtgen, M., and Boroojerdi, B. (2007). Task-dependent modulation of functional connectivity between hand motor cortices and neuronal networks underlying language and music: A transcranial magnetic stimulation study in humans. Eur. J. Neurosci. 25, 319–323. doi: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2006.05252.x

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Stahl, B., Darkow, R., von Podewils, V., Meinzer, M., Grittner, U., Reinhold, T., et al. (2019). Transcranial direct current stimulation to enhance training effectiveness in chronic post-stroke aphasia: a randomized controlled trial protocol. Front. Neurol. 10. doi: 10.3389/fneur.2019.01089

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Sun, W., Song, J., Dong, X., Kang, X., He, B., Zhao, W., et al. (2022a). Bibliometric and visual analysis of transcranial direct current stimulation in the web of science database from 2000 to 2022 via CiteSpace. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 16. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.1049572

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Sun, Y., Huang, L., Hua, Q., and Liu, Q. (2022b). 10-Hz tACS over the prefrontal cortex improves phonemic fluency in healthy individuals. Sci. Rep. 12, 1–9. doi: 10.1038/s41598-022-11961-8

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Terney, D., Chaieb, L., Moliadze, V., Antal, A., and Paulus, W. (2008). Increasing human brain excitability by transcranial high-frequency random noise stimulation. J. Neurosci. 28, 14147–14155. doi: 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.4248-08.2008

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Thiel, A., Schumacher, B., Wienhard, K., Gairing, S., Kracht, L. W., Wagner, R., et al. (2006). Direct demonstration of transcallosal disinhibition in language networks. J. Cerebral Blood Flow Metabolism. 26, 1122–1127. doi: 10.1038/sj.jcbfm.9600350

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Thielscher, A., Antunes, A., and Saturnino, G. B. (2015). Field modeling for transcranial magnetic stimulation: A useful tool to understand the physiological effects of TMS? Proceedings of the Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. Milan: IEEE. p. 222–225. doi: 10.1109/EMBC.2015.7318340

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Tokimura, H., Tokimura, Y., Oliviero, A., Asakura, T., and Rothwell, J. C. (1996). Speech-induced changes in corticospinal excitability. Ann. Neurol. 40, 628–634. doi: 10.1002/ana.410400413

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Töpper, R., Mottaghy, F. M., Brügmann, M., Noth, J., and Huber, W. (1998). Facilitation of picture naming by focal transcranial magnetic stimulation of Wernicke's area. Exp. Brain Res. 121, 371–378. doi: 10.1007/s002210050471

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Torres, J., Drebing, D., and Hamilton, R. (2013). TMS and tDCS in post-stroke aphasia: Integrating novel treatment approaches with mechanisms of plasticity. Restor. Neurol. Neurosci. 31, 501–515. doi: 10.3233/RNN-130314

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Turkeltaub, P. E. (2015). Brain stimulation and the role of the right hemisphere in aphasia recovery. Curr. Neurol. Neurosci. Rep. 15. doi: 10.1007/s11910-015-0593-6

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

van Eck, N. J., and Waltman, L. (2017). Citation-based clustering of publications using CitNetExplorer and VOSviewer. Scientometrics 111, 1053–1070. doi: 10.1007/s11192-017-2300-7

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Van Overwalle, F., Manto, M., Cattaneo, Z., Clausi, S., Ferrari, C., Gabrieli, J. D. E., et al. (2020). Consensus paper: cerebellum and social cognition. Cerebellum. 19, 833–868. doi: 10.1007/s12311-020-01155-1

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Vogeti, S., Boetzel, C., and Herrmann, C. S. (2022). Entrainment and spike-timing dependent plasticity – a review of proposed mechanisms of transcranial alternating current stimulation. Front. Syst. Neurosci. 16. doi: 10.3389/fnsys.2022.827353

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Wilkinson, G., Sasegbon, A., Smith, C. J., Rothwell, J., Bath, P. M., and Hamdy, S. (2020). An exploration of the application of noninvasive cerebellar stimulation in the neuro-rehabilitation of dysphagia after stroke (EXCITES) protocol. J. Stroke Cerebrovasc. Dis. 29, 104586. doi: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2019.104586

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Wilsch, A., Neuling, T., Obleser, J., and Herrmann, C. S. (2018). Transcranial alternating current stimulation with speech envelopes modulates speech comprehension. Neuroimage. 172, 766–774. doi: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2018.01.038

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Woods, A. J., Antal, A., Bikson, M., Boggio, P. S., Brunoni, A. R., Celnik, P., et al. (2016). A technical guide to tDCS, and related non-invasive brain stimulation tools. Clini. Neurophysiol. 127, 1031–1048. doi: 10.1016/j.clinph.2015.11.012

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Xie, X., Hu, P., Tian, Y., Wang, K., and Bai, T. (2022). Transcranial alternating current stimulation enhances speech comprehension in chronic post-stroke aphasia patients: A single-blind sham-controlled study. Brain Stimulat. 15, 1538–1540. doi: 10.1016/j.brs.2022.12.001

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Yada, Y., Tomisato, S., and Hashimoto, R.-I. (2019). Online cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation to the right homologue of Broca's area improves speech fluency in people who stutter. Psychiatry Clin. Neurosci. 73, 63–69. doi: 10.1111/pcn.12796

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Zoefel, B., Archer-Boyd, A., and Davis, M. H. (2018). Phase entrainment of brain oscillations causally modulates neural responses to intelligible speech. Curr. Biol. 28, 401–408. doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2017.11.071

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Zoefel, B., and Davis, M. H. (2017). Transcranial electric stimulation for the investigation of speech perception and comprehension. Lang Cogn Neurosci 32, 910–923. doi: 10.1080/23273798.2016.1247970

PubMed Abstract | CrossRef Full Text | Google Scholar

Keywords: neuromodulation, speech therapy, motor rehabilitation, scientometrics, stutter

Citation: Medeiros W, Barros T and Caixeta FV (2023) Bibliometric mapping of non-invasive brain stimulation techniques (NIBS) for fluent speech production. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 17:1164890. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2023.1164890

Received: 13 February 2023; Accepted: 30 May 2023;
Published: 22 June 2023.

Edited by:

Michael A. Nitsche, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors (IfADo), Germany

Reviewed by:

Aurore Thibaut, University of Liège, Belgium
Emily O. Garnett, University of Michigan, United States

Copyright © 2023 Medeiros, Barros and Caixeta. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) and the copyright owner(s) are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.

*Correspondence: Fabio V. Caixeta, fvcaixeta@unb.br

Disclaimer: All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article or claim that may be made by its manufacturer is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.