One specific state, referred to as State 4, emerged as a key point of difference between the two groups. This state was characterized by strong connections between the left and right hemispheres of the brain. It specifically involved robust communication between the temporal and parietal regions, which are areas often associated with language and sensory processing.

The data showed that children with autism spent considerably less time in State 4 compared to the typically developing children. They also transitioned into and out of this state less frequently. The reduced time spent in this high-connectivity state was statistically distinct.

The researchers then compared these brain patterns to clinical assessments of the children. They found a correlation between the brain data and the severity of autism symptoms. Children who spent the least amount of time in State 4 tended to have higher scores on standardized measures of autism severity.