Unraveling the Autism spectrum heterogeneity: Insights from ABIDE I Database using data/model-driven permutation testing approaches

Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by impairments in communication, social interaction and restricted or repetitive behaviors. Extensive research has been conducted to identify distinctions between individuals with ASC and neurotypical individuals. However, limited attention has been given to comprehensively evaluating how variations in image acquisition protocols across different centers influence these observed differences. This analysis focuses on structural magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI) data from the Autism Brain Imaging Data Exchange I (ABIDE I) database, evaluating subjects' condition and individual centers to identify disparities between ASC and control groups. Statistical analysis, employing permutation tests, utilizes two distinct statistical mapping methods: Statistical Agnostic Mapping (SAM) and Statistical Parametric Mapping (SPM). Results reveal the absence of statistically significant differences in any brain region, attributed to factors such as limited sample sizes within certain centers, noise effects and the problem of multicentrism in a heterogeneous condition such as autism. This study indicates limitations in using the ABIDE I database to detect structural differences in the brain between neurotypical individuals and those diagnosed with ASC. Furthermore, results from the SAM mapping method show greater consistency with existing literature.