A neural signature for combined action observation and motor imagery? An fNIRS study into prefrontal activation, automatic imitation, and self–other perceptions

Abstract

Introduction: Research indicates that both observed and imagined actions can be represented in the brain as two parallel sensorimotor representations. One proposal is that higher order cognitive processes would align these two hypothetical action simulations. Methods:We investigated this hypothesis using an automatic imitation paradigm, with functional near-infrared spectroscopy recordings over the prefrontal cortex during different motor simulation states. On each trial, participants (n = 14) observed a picture of a rhythmical action (instructed action) followed by a distractor movie showing the same or different action. Participants then executed the instructed action. Distractor actions were manipulated to be fast or slow, and instructions were manipulated during distractor presentation: action observation (AO), combined action observation and motor imagery (AO+MI) and observe to imitate (intentional imitation). A pure motor imagery (MI) condition was also included.Results: Kinematic analyses showed that although distractor speed effects were significant under all instructions (shorter mean cycle times in execution for fast compared to slow trials), this imitation bias was significantly stronger for combined AO+MI than both AO and MI, and stronger for intentional imitation than the other three automatic imitation conditions. In the left prefrontal cortex, cerebral oxygenation was significantly greater for combined AO+MI than all other instructions. Participants reported that their representation of the self overlapped with the observed model significantly more during AO+MI than AO. Conclusion:Left prefrontal activation may therefore be a neural signature of AO+MI, supporting attentional switching between concurrent representations of self (MI, topdown) and other (AO, bottom-up) to increase imitation and perceived closeness.

Combinations of action observation and motor imagery on golf putting’s performance

“…This index explains that AOMI activates more neural involvement and functioning. Thus, our research indirectly supports Emerson et al. ’s ( 2022 ) hypothesis and advances our knowledge in this line of scientific endeavors.…”

“…Recent neurophysiological research ( e.g. , Eaves et al, 2016 ; Emerson et al., 2022 ) showed that when combining AOMI, it activates more motor cortical activities than pure AO or MI. The combination of AOMI allows the motor cortex to have a better function to plan, control, and execute the voluntary movement.…”

“…In sum, our results outlined that the combination of AOMI has its advantages in motor skill performance and learning. According to Emerson et al. (2022) , both action observation and motor imagery can be generated in the brain by a higher order cognitive process.…”

“…If we arrange for participants to have the opportunity to learn each skill first, it would be very easy for them to do AO and MI simultaneously. Further, recent neurophysiological research found the A-AOMI approach is less demanding in cognitive processing than S-AOMI ( Emerson et al., 2022 ; Eaves et al, 2016 ). Thus, by engaging in A-AOMI first, they will gain a basic foundation for AOMI intervention.…”

“…Many studies focus on the effectiveness of AOMI on rehabilitation or examine the cortical activities of AOMI ( e.g. , Bruton et al, 2020 ; Castro et al, 2021 ; Emerson et al., 2022 ), but what is the effective way to combine AO and MI together has been rarely examined. For example, in a systematic review and meta-analysis that examined the effects of AOMI on pain intensity of patients with musculoskeletal pain, Suso-Martí et al (2020) found compared to traditional rehabilitation, AO and MI significantly reduced pain intensity.…”