Cognitive Mode Detectable with Task-Based fMRI: Response (RESP)

In the context of task-based functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), cognitive modes can be defined as task-general cognitive/sensory/motor processes which reliably elicit specific blood-oxygen-level-dependent (BOLD) signal pattern configurations. Several cognitive modes are detectable with task-based fMRI, and here we focus on Response (RESP), a cognitive mode that is elicited at the onset of a motor response. The BOLD signal configurations associated with RESP are modulated by a range of tasks, and here we present a total of six. For each task, we report (1) specific pattern-based (as opposed to coordinate-based) anatomical details essential for distinguishing RESP from other BOLD-based cognitive modes, and (2) task-induced BOLD signal changes associated with RESP over a range of task conditions. To facilitate recognition, we nick-named the anatomical patterns specific to RESP as follows: (1) Thalamus Kite Surfer, (2) Bat, (3) Lobster, and (4) Butterfly. Evidence for RESP was derived from the timing and magnitude of task-induced BOLD signal changes induced by the following types of tasks: probabilistic reasoning, evidence integration, verbal working memory, thought generation, relational episodic memory, and handedness. Based on observation of task- induced BOLD signal changes across a wide range of tasks, the function of RESP can be confirmed to to configure due to execution of motor responses. When a response is not required, RESP is absent. Moreover, there is evidence that RESP deactivation is reciprocal to MAIN mode activation, involved in maintaining internal attention, because when there is a delay is present involving sustained internal attention, RESP is deactivated. Activation of RESP may be shortened or lengthened corresponding to faster or slower reaction times, respectively, or potentially to confounds with attentional processes when statistically merged. Finally, imagination of actions appears to activate a bilateral RESP network rather than reciprocal/unilateral. Future research should explore how RESP activates over a wider range of tasks, using larger samples.