Baseline Resting-State Network Integration Modulates Task Performance and Aftereffect

Understanding how intrinsic brain networks adapt to cognitive demands is central to neuroscience. The aim of this study was to examine how eyes-open and eyes-closed resting-state network integration, derived from electroencephalography before and after a visual oddball task, relates to task performance in young adults. Task engagement reduced global integration in theta, lower alpha, and beta bands, independent of eye condition, indicating a transient shift toward a less demanding post-task configuration. Eyes-open resting states consistently exhibited higher integration than eyes-closed in the upper alpha band, both before and after the task, reflecting enhanced inter-regional communication and sensory readiness. Importantly, higher pre-task beta-band integration during eyes-open resting state predicted faster reaction times and larger post-task decreases in integration, highlighting baseline network organization as a determinant of cognitive efficiency and neural flexibility. These findings support the concept of neural reserve, where intrinsic network efficiency and adaptability underpin both performance readiness and dynamic reorganization. Overall, the results demonstrate that resting-state network integration-modulated by both eye condition and task engagement-captures fundamental aspects of the brain's capacity for efficient and flexible cognitive function.