Development of Novel Markers for Yield in Hevea brasiliensis Muell. Arg. Based on Candidate Genes from Biosynthetic Pathways Associated with Latex Production.

Scarcity of functional genetic markers associated with candidate genes (CGs) is a serious constraint for marker-assisted selection in the natural rubber producing tree, Hevea brasiliensis. In order to develop markers associated with rubber yield, five CGs involved in latex biosynthesis were characterized from 16 popular Hevea varieties. Novel SNPs and indels were identified and developed into markers using simple genotyping techniques like allele-specific PCR, CAPS, etc.

Telehealth parent coaching to improve daily living skills for children with ASD.

Children with autism spectrum disorder often display deficits in daily living skills. Behavior analysts can use telehealth, such as videoconferencing technology, to deliver interventions to families of these children. Given the COVID-19 pandemic and the common barriers to accessing behavioral interventions, it is imperative to evaluate the effectiveness and practicality of delivering behavioral interventions via telehealth.

Parent-implemented brief functional analysis and treatment with coaching via telehealth.

We evaluated the use of parent-implemented brief functional analyses in the home with coaching delivered via telehealth. Parents of 7 children with autism conducted functional analyses of their child's challenging behavior. For 4 participants, the brief functional analysis provided information regarding the function of the child's challenging behavior.

A Comparison of Demand Fading and a Dense Schedule of Reinforcement During Functional Communication Training.

Ample research indicates that functional communication training (FCT) is an effective intervention to reduce challenging behavior. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of demand fading on escape-maintained challenging behavior, mands, and task completion for 2 children with autism spectrum disorder. The study utilized an embedded reversal and alternating-treatments design to evaluate the efficacy of the intervention and compare the efficacy of the demand fading and dense schedule conditions.

Genomic technologies for Hevea breeding.

The commercial production of high quality natural rubber (NR) solely depends on Hevea brasiliensis Muell. Arg, (Para rubber tree) and accounts for >98% of total production worldwide. NR with its unique properties is an essential commodity for the automobile industry and its synthetic counterparts are in no way substitute to it.