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This study explored the synthesis and application of amino-functionalised magnetic silica (Fe3O4 @mSiO2-NH2) nanocomposite as a selective sorbent for the extraction of penicillin antibiotics (PENs) from milk samples via magnetic micro-solid phase extraction (M-µ-SPE). The physicochemical characteristics of the synthesised sorbent were evaluated through important spectroscopy analyses. The adopted M-µ-SPE conditions were: 25 mg of Fe3O4 @mSiO2-NH2; pH 4; 3 min of extraction time; 1 min of desorption time; acetonitrile as the desorption solvent; 10 of salt addition; and 30 mL sample. Under the optimum conditions, the developed method demonstrated satisfactory from 10 to 500 µg/L (r2≥0.9986), low limits of detection (2.5–3.1 µg/L), high analytes recovery (85.2–106.7), and good precision (RSDs≤8,n = 5). The proposed method is rapid, simple, inexpensive, and shows good sensitivity when compared to previously developed methods. This study provides new insight into the development of a new sorbent for PENs and new microscale sample preparation for monitoring PENs in complex milk matrices.

This study explored the synthesis and application of amino-functionalised magnetic silica (Fe3O4 @mSiO2-NH2) nanocomposite as a selective sorbent for the extraction of penicillin antibiotics (PENs) from milk samples via magnetic micro-solid phase extraction (M-µ-SPE). The physicochemical characteristics of the synthesised sorbent were evaluated through important spectroscopy analyses. The adopted M-µ-SPE conditions were: 25 mg of Fe3O4 @mSiO2-NH2; pH 4; 3 min of extraction time; 1 min of desorption time; acetonitrile as the desorption solvent; 10 of salt addition; and 30 mL sample. Under the optimum conditions, the developed method demonstrated satisfactory from 10 to 500 µg/L (r2≥0.9986), low limits of detection (2.5–3.1 µg/L), high analytes recovery (85.2–106.7), and good precision (RSDs≤8,n = 5). The proposed method is rapid, simple, inexpensive, and shows good sensitivity when compared to previously developed methods. This study provides new insight into the development of a new sorbent for PENs and new microscale sample preparation for monitoring PENs in complex milk matrices.

This study investigated oil palm inflorescence sex ratio (ISR) and fruit set (FS) yield among 24 dura × pisifera biparental progenies on fibric peat soil, hybridized from ten genetic origins. Three-month intervals of data collection on ISR and “S-shape” procedure for FS determination were carried out in an independent complete randomized design for one year. Based on the assessment of individual progenies, analysis of variance revealed the existence of genetic heterogeneity. Five of the progenies had the highest ISR above 90%. However, 20.83% of the progenies (PK4841, PK4674, ECPHP415, ECPHP550, and PK4118) had the best normal range of ISR, indicating FS declined being influenced by ISR. Therefore, only 12.50% of the progenies (PK4674, PK4465, and PK4482) were above 60% FS critical level. Correlation analysis verified that ISR depends on the female flower and progeny PK4674 (65.78%) and PK4465 (62.62%) had the best FS and fruit to bunch. Among the parental origins, Deli Serdang × Cameroon was statistically the best for male flower production at 29.40% and ISR at 72.22%. The highest FS was recorded in Deli Banting × AVROS (54.00%) and Angola × AVROS (53.78%). However, molecular research, such as microsatellite molecular markers if concurrently used as a selection criterion with the present conventional study, could present further details to complement the present findings.

This study investigated oil palm inflorescence sex ratio (ISR) and fruit set (FS) yield among 24 dura × pisifera biparental progenies on fibric peat soil, hybridized from ten genetic origins. Three-month intervals of data collection on ISR and “S-shape” procedure for FS determination were carried out in an independent complete randomized design for one year. Based on the assessment of individual progenies, analysis of variance revealed the existence of genetic heterogeneity. Five of the progenies had the highest ISR above 90%. However, 20.83% of the progenies (PK4841, PK4674, ECPHP415, ECPHP550, and PK4118) had the best normal range of ISR, indicating FS declined being influenced by ISR. Therefore, only 12.50% of the progenies (PK4674, PK4465, and PK4482) were above 60% FS critical level. Correlation analysis verified that ISR depends on the female flower and progeny PK4674 (65.78%) and PK4465 (62.62%) had the best FS and fruit to bunch. Among the parental origins, Deli Serdang × Cameroon was statistically the best for male flower production at 29.40% and ISR at 72.22%. The highest FS was recorded in Deli Banting × AVROS (54.00%) and Angola × AVROS (53.78%). However, molecular research, such as microsatellite molecular markers if concurrently used as a selection criterion with the present conventional study, could present further details to complement the present findings.

Molecular characterization of oil palm germplasm is crucial in utilizing and conserving germplasm with promising traits. This study was conducted to evaluate the genetic diversity structures and relationships among 26 families of MPOB-Senegal oil palm germplasm using thirty-five microsatellite markers. High level of polymorphism (%), number of effective allele (), observed heterozygosity (), expected heterozygosity (), total heterozygosity (), and rare alleles (54) were observed which indicates that MPOB-Senegal germplasm has a broad genetic variation. Among the SSR markers, sMo00053 and sMg00133 were the most informative markers for discrimination among the MPOB-Senegal oil palm germplasm for having the highest private alleles and the rare alleles. For selection and conservation, oil palm populations with high rare alleles and Nei’s gene diversity index should be considered as these populations may possess unique genes for further exploitation.

Purpose: This study examines the assumption of unlimited human wants in Islamic economics where tasawur is brought into play. Design/methodology/approach: Drawing from the analytical approach, the present study presents new concepts of unlimited human wants. The assumpion of unlimited human wants (AUHW) was taken by Islamic economists and therefore altered and assimilated with Islamic elements so that it can be known as the assumption of Islamic economics. The question is, does the assumption of AUHW accept in Islamic economics? If fits, what are the assumptions of unlimited human wants parallel with Islamic tasawur? The data employed were drawn from Library research. The contents and textual analyses were employed to achieve this purpose. Findings: This study found out that the assumption of AUHW was parallel with tasawur and for that, they are suitable for Islamic economics. Research limitations/implications: This study examines a new approach to measure unlimited human wants in Islamic context. Our contributions are confined to this area – human wants. Our study also limits its perspective on the general context of tasawur. Future works can provide specific perspectives on unlimited human wants covering different geographies. Practical implications: This study provides a new parameter for Muslims to manager their resources according to Islam. Originality/value: This study introduces a new measure of addressing unlimited human wants among Muslims.

Purpose: This study examines the assumption of unlimited human wants in Islamic economics where tasawur is brought into play. Design/methodology/approach: Drawing from the analytical approach, the present study presents new concepts of unlimited human wants. The assumpion of unlimited human wants (AUHW) was taken by Islamic economists and therefore altered and assimilated with Islamic elements so that it can be known as the assumption of Islamic economics. The question is, does the assumption of AUHW accept in Islamic economics? If fits, what are the assumptions of unlimited human wants parallel with Islamic tasawur? The data employed were drawn from Library research. The contents and textual analyses were employed to achieve this purpose. Findings: This study found out that the assumption of AUHW was parallel with tasawur and for that, they are suitable for Islamic economics. Research limitations/implications: This study examines a new approach to measure unlimited human wants in Islamic context. Our contributions are confined to this area – human wants. Our study also limits its perspective on the general context of tasawur. Future works can provide specific perspectives on unlimited human wants covering different geographies. Practical implications: This study provides a new parameter for Muslims to manager their resources according to Islam. Originality/value: This study introduces a new measure of addressing unlimited human wants among Muslims.

Purpose: This study examines the assumption of unlimited human wants in Islamic economics where tasawur is brought into play. Design/methodology/approach: Drawing from the analytical approach, the present study presents new concepts of unlimited human wants. The assumpion of unlimited human wants (AUHW) was taken by Islamic economists and therefore altered and assimilated with Islamic elements so that it can be known as the assumption of Islamic economics. The question is, does the assumption of AUHW accept in Islamic economics? If fits, what are the assumptions of unlimited human wants parallel with Islamic tasawur? The data employed were drawn from Library research. The contents and textual analyses were employed to achieve this purpose. Findings: This study found out that the assumption of AUHW was parallel with tasawur and for that, they are suitable for Islamic economics. Research limitations/implications: This study examines a new approach to measure unlimited human wants in Islamic context. Our contributions are confined to this area – human wants. Our study also limits its perspective on the general context of tasawur. Future works can provide specific perspectives on unlimited human wants covering different geographies. Practical implications: This study provides a new parameter for Muslims to manager their resources according to Islam. Originality/value: This study introduces a new measure of addressing unlimited human wants among Muslims.

Purpose: This study examines the assumption of unlimited human wants in Islamic economics where tasawur is brought into play. Design/methodology/approach: Drawing from the analytical approach, the present study presents new concepts of unlimited human wants. The assumpion of unlimited human wants (AUHW) was taken by Islamic economists and therefore altered and assimilated with Islamic elements so that it can be known as the assumption of Islamic economics. The question is, does the assumption of AUHW accept in Islamic economics? If fits, what are the assumptions of unlimited human wants parallel with Islamic tasawur? The data employed were drawn from Library research. The contents and textual analyses were employed to achieve this purpose. Findings: This study found out that the assumption of AUHW was parallel with tasawur and for that, they are suitable for Islamic economics. Research limitations/implications: This study examines a new approach to measure unlimited human wants in Islamic context. Our contributions are confined to this area – human wants. Our study also limits its perspective on the general context of tasawur. Future works can provide specific perspectives on unlimited human wants covering different geographies. Practical implications: This study provides a new parameter for Muslims to manager their resources according to Islam. Originality/value: This study introduces a new measure of addressing unlimited human wants among Muslims.

Purpose: This study examines the assumption of unlimited human wants in Islamic economics where tasawur is brought into play. Design/methodology/approach: Drawing from the analytical approach, the present study presents new concepts of unlimited human wants. The assumpion of unlimited human wants (AUHW) was taken by Islamic economists and therefore altered and assimilated with Islamic elements so that it can be known as the assumption of Islamic economics. The question is, does the assumption of AUHW accept in Islamic economics? If fits, what are the assumptions of unlimited human wants parallel with Islamic tasawur? The data employed were drawn from Library research. The contents and textual analyses were employed to achieve this purpose. Findings: This study found out that the assumption of AUHW was parallel with tasawur and for that, they are suitable for Islamic economics. Research limitations/implications: This study examines a new approach to measure unlimited human wants in Islamic context. Our contributions are confined to this area – human wants. Our study also limits its perspective on the general context of tasawur. Future works can provide specific perspectives on unlimited human wants covering different geographies. Practical implications: This study provides a new parameter for Muslims to manager their resources according to Islam. Originality/value: This study introduces a new measure of addressing unlimited human wants among Muslims.

Purpose: This study examines the assumption of unlimited human wants in Islamic economics where tasawur is brought into play. Design/methodology/approach: Drawing from the analytical approach, the present study presents new concepts of unlimited human wants. The assumpion of unlimited human wants (AUHW) was taken by Islamic economists and therefore altered and assimilated with Islamic elements so that it can be known as the assumption of Islamic economics. The question is, does the assumption of AUHW accept in Islamic economics? If fits, what are the assumptions of unlimited human wants parallel with Islamic tasawur? The data employed were drawn from Library research. The contents and textual analyses were employed to achieve this purpose. Findings: This study found out that the assumption of AUHW was parallel with tasawur and for that, they are suitable for Islamic economics. Research limitations/implications: This study examines a new approach to measure unlimited human wants in Islamic context. Our contributions are confined to this area – human wants. Our study also limits its perspective on the general context of tasawur. Future works can provide specific perspectives on unlimited human wants covering different geographies. Practical implications: This study provides a new parameter for Muslims to manager their resources according to Islam. Originality/value: This study introduces a new measure of addressing unlimited human wants among Muslims.

Purpose: This study examines the assumption of unlimited human wants in Islamic economics where tasawur is brought into play. Design/methodology/approach: Drawing from the analytical approach, the present study presents new concepts of unlimited human wants. The assumpion of unlimited human wants (AUHW) was taken by Islamic economists and therefore altered and assimilated with Islamic elements so that it can be known as the assumption of Islamic economics. The question is, does the assumption of AUHW accept in Islamic economics? If fits, what are the assumptions of unlimited human wants parallel with Islamic tasawur? The data employed were drawn from Library research. The contents and textual analyses were employed to achieve this purpose. Findings: This study found out that the assumption of AUHW was parallel with tasawur and for that, they are suitable for Islamic economics. Research limitations/implications: This study examines a new approach to measure unlimited human wants in Islamic context. Our contributions are confined to this area – human wants. Our study also limits its perspective on the general context of tasawur. Future works can provide specific perspectives on unlimited human wants covering different geographies. Practical implications: This study provides a new parameter for Muslims to manager their resources according to Islam. Originality/value: This study introduces a new measure of addressing unlimited human wants among Muslims.

Fusarium wilt disease is one of the most problematic and destructive disease in cucumber production. The causative agents are Fusarium oxysporum and F. solani. These pathogens are soil borne and transmitted through infested soil and water. A field survey was conducted to study the disease prevalence in the major growing areas of cucumber in Peninsular Malaysia. Field study revealed that the disease was highly prevalence in the field with the disease incidence was in the range of 10%–60%. The morphological properties of F. oxysporum are microconidia (3.8–15.7 µm × 2.9–4.9 µm), macroconidia (14.8–38.5 µm × 2.4–5.7 µm) and number of septate was 1–4. While for F. solani are microconidia (3.39–14.63 µm × 2.36–4.44 µm), macroconidia (7.22–50.46 µm × 2.43–6.14 µm) and number of septate was 1–5. Based on molecular identification had confirmed that the disease is caused by F. oxysporum and F. solani with similarity index of 99%–100% based on internal transcribed spacer (ITS) gene sequences. The pathogenicity test showed that the symptoms of Fusarium wilt disease was firstly appeared as yellowing of old leaves. Progressively, the infected plant will be wilted and finally died. The outputs of this study are highly important to establish an effective disease management programme to reduce disease prevalence and yield loss in the field.

Fusarium wilt disease is one of the most problematic and destructive disease in cucumber production. The causative agents are Fusarium oxysporum and F. solani. These pathogens are soil borne and transmitted through infested soil and water. A field survey was conducted to study the disease prevalence in the major growing areas of cucumber in Peninsular Malaysia. Field study revealed that the disease was highly prevalence in the field with the disease incidence was in the range of 10%–60%. The morphological properties of F. oxysporum are microconidia (3.8–15.7 µm × 2.9–4.9 µm), macroconidia (14.8–38.5 µm × 2.4–5.7 µm) and number of septate was 1–4. While for F. solani are microconidia (3.39–14.63 µm × 2.36–4.44 µm), macroconidia (7.22–50.46 µm × 2.43–6.14 µm) and number of septate was 1–5. Based on molecular identification had confirmed that the disease is caused by F. oxysporum and F. solani with similarity index of 99%–100% based on internal transcribed spacer (ITS) gene sequences. The pathogenicity test showed that the symptoms of Fusarium wilt disease was firstly appeared as yellowing of old leaves. Progressively, the infected plant will be wilted and finally died. The outputs of this study are highly important to establish an effective disease management programme to reduce disease prevalence and yield loss in the field.

This research was conducted to study the performance of biparental dura × pisifera (D × P) progenies and their parental genetic origins on fruit set and yield components. Twenty-four D × P progenies developed from 10 genetic origins were used for this study. Analysis of variance showed that there was genetic variability based on the evaluation of individual progenies. Deli Ulu Remis × Nigeria of progeny ECPHP500 recorded the highest bunch number (22.91), and fresh fruit bunch (184.62 kg palm−1 year−1) and Deli Banting dura × AVROS pisifera (ECPHP550) had the highest average bunch weight (10.36 kg bunch−1 year−1). Progenies PK4674 (61.12%) and PK4465 (60.93%) had the highest fruit set, and the highest oil yield of 52.66 kg bunch−1 was noticed by progeny PK4674. Estimation of variance components, coefficients of variation, heritability, and genetic gain were calculated to establish the genetic variability. To validate the genetic disparity among the progenies, an unweighted pair-group procedure with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) and principal component was employed based on their quantitative traits. Through the UPGMA and principal component, the 24 progenies were clustered into 7 clusters, whereas cluster V had the highest fruit set (60.62%) and cluster IV had the highest oil yield (43.71 kg palm−1 year−1). For oil palm tissue culture and breeding programs, progeny PK4674 will be more useful for developing planting materials of high oil yielding with stable performance. However, we recommend that future studies incorporate molecular studies with conventional breeding.

This research was conducted to study the performance of biparental dura × pisifera (D × P) progenies and their parental genetic origins on fruit set and yield components. Twenty-four D × P progenies developed from 10 genetic origins were used for this study. Analysis of variance showed that there was genetic variability based on the evaluation of individual progenies. Deli Ulu Remis × Nigeria of progeny ECPHP500 recorded the highest bunch number (22.91), and fresh fruit bunch (184.62 kg palm−1 year−1) and Deli Banting dura × AVROS pisifera (ECPHP550) had the highest average bunch weight (10.36 kg bunch−1 year−1). Progenies PK4674 (61.12%) and PK4465 (60.93%) had the highest fruit set, and the highest oil yield of 52.66 kg bunch−1 was noticed by progeny PK4674. Estimation of variance components, coefficients of variation, heritability, and genetic gain were calculated to establish the genetic variability. To validate the genetic disparity among the progenies, an unweighted pair-group procedure with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) and principal component was employed based on their quantitative traits. Through the UPGMA and principal component, the 24 progenies were clustered into 7 clusters, whereas cluster V had the highest fruit set (60.62%) and cluster IV had the highest oil yield (43.71 kg palm−1 year−1). For oil palm tissue culture and breeding programs, progeny PK4674 will be more useful for developing planting materials of high oil yielding with stable performance. However, we recommend that future studies incorporate molecular studies with conventional breeding.

Conventional quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis of a mapping family is carried out to generate molecular tools for development of compact interspecific hybrid palms that can be planted more closely for higher yields per unit land area. Genetic maps were constructed for an interspecific backcross two (BC2) oil palm population using single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. A total of 1744 markers were mapped onto 16 linkage groups, spanning 1499.5 cM with an average marker interval of 0.86 cM. Using empirical genome and chromosome-wide thresholds, QTL analysis yielded a number of significant associations with vegetative characters for palm compactness. Subsequent QTL analysis revealed two major and two putative QTL linked to rachis length and petiole cross-section, two important characters for palm compactness. The QTL identified are an important step towards the implementation of marker assisted selection (MAS), enabling breeders to make early informed decisions on improving interspecific hybrids.

Background Molecular breeding has opened new avenues for crop improvement with the potential for faster progress. As oil palm is the major producer of vegetable oil in the world, its improvement, such as developing compact planting materials and altering its oils’ fatty acid composition for wider application, is important. Results This study sought to identify the QTLs associated with fatty acid composition and vegetative traits for compactness in the crop. It integrated two interspecific backcross two (BC2) mapping populations to improve the genetic resolution and evaluate the consistency of the QTLs identified. A total 1963 markers (1814 SNPs and 149 SSRs) spanning a total map length of 1793 cM were integrated into a consensus map. For the first time, some QTLs associated with vegetative parameters and carotene content were identified in interspecific hybrids, apart from those associated with fatty acid composition. The analysis identified 8, 3 and 8 genomic loci significantly associated with fatty acids, carotene content and compactness, respectively. Conclusions Major genomic region influencing the traits for compactness and fatty acid composition was identified in the same chromosomal region in the two populations using two methods for QTL detection. Several significant loci influencing compactness, carotene content and FAC were common to both populations, while others were specific to particular genetic backgrounds. It is hoped that the QTLs identified will be useful tools for marker-assisted selection and accelerate the identification of desirable genotypes for breeding., Background Molecular breeding has opened new avenues for crop improvement with the potential for faster progress. As oil palm is the major producer of vegetable oil in the world, its improvement, such as developing compact planting materials and altering its oils’ fatty acid composition for wider application, is important. Results This study sought to identify the QTLs associated with fatty acid composition and vegetative traits for compactness in the crop. It integrated two interspecific backcross two (BC2) mapping populations to improve the genetic resolution and evaluate the consistency of the QTLs identified. A total 1963 markers (1814 SNPs and 149 SSRs) spanning a total map length of 1793 cM were integrated into a consensus map. For the first time, some QTLs associated with vegetative parameters and carotene content were identified in interspecific hybrids, apart from those associated with fatty acid composition. The analysis identified 8, 3 and 8 genomic loci significantly associated with fatty acids, carotene content and compactness, respectively. Conclusions Major genomic region influencing the traits for compactness and fatty acid composition was identified in the same chromosomal region in the two populations using two methods for QTL detection. Several significant loci influencing compactness, carotene content and FAC were common to both populations, while others were specific to particular genetic backgrounds. It is hoped that the QTLs identified will be useful tools for marker-assisted selection and accelerate the identification of desirable genotypes for breeding.

This study sought to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with fatty acid composition (FAC) and vegetative traits for compactness in oil palm. It integrated two interspecific backcross two (BC2) mapping populations to improve the genetic resolution and evaluate the consistency of the QTLs identified.

BACKGROUND: Molecular breeding has opened new avenues for crop improvement with the potential for faster progress. As oil palm is the major producer of vegetable oil in the world, its improvement, such as developing compact planting materials and altering its oils' fatty acid composition for wider application, is important. RESULTS: This study sought to identify the QTLs associated with fatty acid composition and vegetative traits for compactness in the crop. It integrated two interspecific backcross two (BC2) mapping populations to improve the genetic resolution and evaluate the consistency of the QTLs identified. A total 1963 markers (1814 SNPs and 149 SSRs) spanning a total map length of 1793 cM were integrated into a consensus map. For the first time, some QTLs associated with vegetative parameters and carotene content were identified in interspecific hybrids, apart from those associated with fatty acid composition. The analysis identified 8, 3 and 8 genomic loci significantly associated with fatty acids, carotene content and compactness, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Major genomic region influencing the traits for compactness and fatty acid composition was identified in the same chromosomal region in the two populations using two methods for QTL detection. Several significant loci influencing compactness, carotene content and FAC were common to both populations, while others were specific to particular genetic backgrounds. It is hoped that the QTLs identified will be useful tools for marker-assisted selection and accelerate the identification of desirable genotypes for breeding.

Recent studies have reported soiling defects and health hazard caused by particulate matter, poor Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) conditions, and damages caused by varying microclimate conditions in the museum. When airborne particulates combine with various substances in the air, a chemical reaction occurs, which results in the formation of inorganic and organic compounds. These compounds are then deposited on the surfaces of artefacts which reduces the aesthetic properties and value of the artefacts through a process known as soiling. Additionally, airborne particulates can trigger various health effects on museum users. Such as cough, sneezing, lungs irritation, itchy eye, cancer, heart attack, and can lead to death. Purpose: This research is, therefore aimed at reviewing the recent trends in countries annual mean concentration of Particulate matters, characteristics of museum collections, sources of Particulate Matter in the museum, and its effect on artefacts and museum users, and concentration and chemical com- positions of airborne particulate in Finding: Several studies have been published in relating to the concen- tration and chemical compositions of airborne particulates in Europe and Asia. However, detailed research is still lagging on the composition of Airborne particulate in Malaysian Implication: Therefore, more research needs to be conducted based on this research gap to enable risk assessment inside Museum Environment.

Artefacts in the Museum are continuously exposed to adverse climatological conditions such as the high concentration of Particulate Matter, unstable Tem- perature and Relative Humidity. These adverse climatological conditions can cause varieties of mechanical, chemical and biological damages to the exhibits in a museum and cultural heritage building collections. Thus, this research is aimed at determining the airborne particulates relationship with the ambient temperature and relative humidity in relation to the soiling defects towards the artefacts in Gallery A and Gallery B of the National Museum, Kuala Lum- pur, Malaysia. The researchers collected data for 40 days. The microclimate results show that there is an unwanted variability in most of the sample sta- tions during the period of this research. The variation can cause several damages to artefacts present in both Gal- leries. Most of the Temperature and Relative Humidity results in Gallery B were beyond the acceptable limits with the location of indoor area and unglazed ceramic exhibition box falling 16 % above ASHRAE fluctuation limit for Relative Humidity. However, the values of Relative Humidity at all sample locations were observed to be within limits set by Italian Stand- ard (UNI 10829/99). In Gallery A, a strong negative correlation of 0.6 and 0.7 were observed between the average Temperature and respirable mass concentration, and average Temperature and Total inhalable mass concentration, consecutively, although a relatively positive relationship of 0.5 was observed between average Relative Humidity and respective mass concentration values. In contrary to Gallery A’s results, the relationship between the mass concentration of respirable and total inhalable Partic- ulate matters and T and RH observe in Gallery B, shows a weak positive and negative relationship in some cases and no relationship in others. The research concludes that the climatological conditions of Gallery A and Gallery B of the Nationa

Understanding genetic structure of different vegetative, yield and yield component traits play a major role in oil palm breeding program. Based on this background, this study was carried out to evaluate the genetic diversity and heritability among 26 families of MPOB-Senegal oil palm germplasm using multivariate analysis to identify superior palms for future oil palm breeding program. To achieve this objective, data on yield components, bunch quality and vegetative traits were collected for eight consecutive years. The analysis of variance showed a significant variability among the families for most of the traits evaluated. The mean nut weight and rachis length showed high broad sense heritability value of 62.15% and 61.06% while the rest of the traits ranged from moderate to low. The evaluated families were grouped into six major clusters at the coefficient of 0.72 based on morphological traits with the aid of unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) dendrogram. This findings revealed that MPOB-Senegal germplasm exhibited important economic traits which are vital in oil palm improvement programs. Based on the results, the three families SEN02.05, SEN05.02 and SEN06.01 were identified as prospective families for high kernel content which could be the most essential sources of lauric acids for oleochemical industry. The information obtained from this study would be more useful if integrated with molecular study to have a comprehensive genetic variation pattern of MPOB-Senegal oil palm germplasm which could then be utilized in the development of core collection to preserve the widest genetic diversity with minimum family.

Understanding genetic structure of different vegetative, yield and yield component traits play a major role in oil palm breeding program. Based on this background, this study was carried out to evaluate the genetic diversity and heritability among 26 families of MPOB-Senegal oil palm germplasm using multivariate analysis to identify superior palms for future oil palm breeding program. To achieve this objective, data on yield components, bunch quality and vegetative traits were collected for eight consecutive years. The analysis of variance showed a significant variability among the families for most of the traits evaluated. The mean nut weight and rachis length showed high broad sense heritability value of 62.15% and 61.06% while the rest of the traits ranged from moderate to low. The evaluated families were grouped into six major clusters at the coefficient of 0.72 based on morphological traits with the aid of unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) dendrogram. This findings revealed that MPOB-Senegal germplasm exhibited important economic traits which are vital in oil palm improvement programs. Based on the results, the three families SEN02.05, SEN05.02 and SEN06.01 were identified as prospective families for high kernel content which could be the most essential sources of lauric acids for oleochemical industry. The information obtained from this study would be more useful if integrated with molecular study to have a comprehensive genetic variation pattern of MPOB-Senegal oil palm germplasm which could then be utilized in the development of core collection to preserve the widest genetic diversity with minimum family.

Water stress or synonymy referring to the drought season is the major abiotic stress which affect growth, physiology and biochemical activity in plant and cause major losses to agriculture production sector. This study was aimed to determine the effects of exogenous application of brassinolide (BR) and combination of minerals on growth performance, physiological and biochemical changes of banana plantlets (Musa acuminata cv. Berangan) under water stress condition. The leaves of the whole plantlets were foliar sprayed for every two weeks interval with three treatments; (i) BR as control, (ii) magnesium carbonate (MgCO3) + calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and (iii) combination of BR + MgCO3 + CaCO3. The plants were also subjected to water stress treatments: 50%, 75% and 100% of the field capacity. The treatments were assigned as split-plot design in randomized complete block design (RCBD) arrangement. Water stress had significantly reduced major growth parameters (plant height, pseudo-stem diameter and total leaf area) but enhanced accumulation of proline and malondialdehyde content in leaves tissue. These findings also provided profound new insights and water stress by regulating the changes on stomata conductance and vapour pressure deficit under severe water stress condition.

There are many factors influencing the ability of fungal pathogen pathogenicity. It is critical to understand the characters and the behavior of the pathogen on environmental factors influences in order to design suitable control methods for specific pathogen. In this study, different media, temperature, light density and pH levels were tested for their influence toward the Corynespora cassiicola, the causal agent for leaf spot disease of papaya. Six different media were tested in this study. Based on the result, the most suitable media for the C. cassiicola growth were Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) half Strength and NA with 31.83 and 31.46 AUGC respectively. Meanwhile, Corn Meal Agar (CMA) showed the worst performance among those media tested with 24.09 AUGC value. Temperature of 30°C is the best for C. cassiicola growth and 12h UV 12h Light was the best combination for C. cassiicola spore production. Other than that, pH range level from 7 to 8 shows the best pH level for both growth and sporulation of C. cassiicola.

Water stress or synonymy referring to the drought season is the major abiotic stress which affect growth, physiology and biochemical activity in plant and cause major losses to agriculture production sector. This study was aimed to determine the effects of exogenous application of brassinolide (BR) and combination of minerals on growth performance, physiological and biochemical changes of banana plantlets (Musa acuminata cv. Berangan) under water stress condition. The leaves of the whole plantlets were foliar sprayed for every two weeks interval with three treatments; (i) BR as control, (ii) magnesium carbonate (MgCO3) + calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and (iii) combination of BR + MgCO3 + CaCO3. The plants were also subjected to water stress treatments: 50%, 75% and 100% of the field capacity. The treatments were assigned as split-plot design in randomized complete block design (RCBD) arrangement. Water stress had significantly reduced major growth parameters (plant height, pseudo-stem diameter and total leaf area) but enhanced accumulation of proline and malondialdehyde content in leaves tissue. These findings also provided profound new insights and water stress by regulating the changes on stomata conductance and vapour pressure deficit under severe water stress condition.

There are many factors influencing the ability of fungal pathogen pathogenicity. It is critical to understand the characters and the behavior of the pathogen on environmental factors influences in order to design suitable control methods for specific pathogen. In this study, different media, temperature, light density and pH levels were tested for their influence toward the Corynespora cassiicola, the causal agent for leaf spot disease of papaya. Six different media were tested in this study. Based on the result, the most suitable media for the C. cassiicola growth were Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) half Strength and NA with 31.83 and 31.46 AUGC respectively. Meanwhile, Corn Meal Agar (CMA) showed the worst performance among those media tested with 24.09 AUGC value. Temperature of 30°C is the best for C. cassiicola growth and 12h UV 12h Light was the best combination for C. cassiicola spore production. Other than that, pH range level from 7 to 8 shows the best pH level for both growth and sporulation of C. cassiicola.

Banana (Musa acuminata cv. Berangan) is one of the most popular fruit and has great potential for commercial development since the current demand had increased drastically. However, in Malaysia, poor soil fertility, limited water availability and disease attack are among common problems in banana industry. In order to find a solution of the problems, a field study was conducted to determine the optimum enriched biochar rate for improvement of soil physicochemical properties, growth and physiological status of banana. In addition to field study, a glasshouse study was conducted to determine the effect of Bacillus subtilis inoculation in enriched biochar media and water stress on growth, physiological status and suppression of Fusarium wilt. Four different rates of enriched biochar (0, 1.5, 3.0 and 4.5 t ha⁻¹ ) were applied once by mixing with Bungor Series soil and put into a polybag with the size of 40 cm × 40 cm. One month old banana plantlets were used. The treatments were carried out for 3 months and arranged in a randomized complete block design with 4 replications. Meanwhile, in the second study, the media were prepared based on optimum rate of enriched biochar from the first study. The treatments consisted of two factors (water stress and Bacillus subtilis) arranged by split plot in randomized complete block design with three replications. The media were enriched with 0, 20, 40 and 60 mL Bacillus subtilis at the concentration 10⁸ CFU mL⁻¹ applied by soil drenching as pre-inoculation treatments and plantlets were subjected to 100% well- watered (WW), 75% medium-stressed (MS) and 50% severe-stressed (SS) treatments based on field capacity (FC) level. The plantlets inoculated with Fusarium oxysporum race 4 (FOC) one week after Bacillus subtilis treatments were applied and the plant were destructively sampled at 45 and 90 days after transplanting (DAT). The results found that soil microbial population, soil physicochemical properties (pH, CEC, total C, N, K, Ca an

A field investigation under tropical climate was undertaken in the research plot of the Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia to study the effects of exogenous application of plant growth regulators on growth performance, physiology changes and biochemical analysis of banana plants (Musa acuminata cv. Berangan) under irrigated and rainfed condition. The experiment was laid out as split-plot in randomized complete block design. Results showed that, banana plants grown under the rainfed condition significantly reduced morphological characters such as plant height, pseudo-stem, canopy diameter, but enhanced accumulation of proline and malondialdehyde content in leaves tissue of stress-treated plants. Physiological characters which include total chlorophyll content, relative water content and electrolyte leakage were measured and has indicated significant effect under two different water regimes. Application of plant growth regulators on Berangan banana under different water regimes able to tolerate water stress conditions by changes in vapour pressure deficit as affected by decreasing stomata opening besides enhanced net photosynthesis to produce higher yield of banana fruits.

Enrichment of soil fertility with organic amendment offers a new strategy for enhancing soil physical properties and improving soil fertility. Application of BioRichar can be a new alternative for adoption of organic banana cultivation in Malaysia. This study was conducted to determine optimum BioRichar rate for growth enhancement of banana cv. Berangan at vegetative stage. The BioRichar was mixed thoroughly with ultisol soil at 1.5, 3.0 and 4.5 t/ha, which were equivalent to 0.6, 1.2 and 1.8 kg/ polybag (size 16 x 16 inches), respectively. In the experiment, BioRichar at 3.0 t/ha and 4.5 t/ha improved plant growth characteristics significantly including plant height, pseudo-stem diameter, total leaf number and leaf area as compared to control. Application of 4.5 t/ha BioRichar changed total N, P, K, Ca and Mg significantly in leaves. Total N, P, K increased but Ca and Mg content decreased significantly, when BioRichar was applied at higher rate (4.5 t/ha). Meanwhile, proline and MDA contents in leaf tissue were higher in control as compared to BioRichar enriched plants. These findings suggested that optimum growth of banana cv. Berangan could be achieved with BioRichar at 4.5 t/ha applied at vegetative stages during acclimatization period prior to field transplanting.

The present research was conducted to evaluate the ability of Bacillus subtilis to supress Fusarium wilt disease of banana in Biorichar™ amended soil under different soil moisture regimes. Banana plants were inoculated with different volumes of Bacillus subtilis (0, 20, 40 and 60 mL) given at concentration 108 CFU mLˉ¹ and subjected to three water stress levels based on field capacity (FC) viz. well watered (100% FC), mild stress (75% FC), and severe stress (50% FC). Banana plantlets were inoculated with Fusarium oxysporum one week after Bacillus subtilis were applied. The results showed that, minimum percentage of disease incidence in banana plants was recorded at high Bacillus subtilis rate (40 mL and 60 mL) at 50% FC. However, at 75% FC and 100% FC conditions, disease incidence increased from 35.28% to 45.09% following the time. Proline content showed 0.33% high under 75% FC compared to 50% FC at 45 DAT and similar trend was observed at 90 DAT. Malondialdehyde (MDA) content in banana plants was high in control treatment than those inoculated with Bacillus subtilis. 100% FC condition gave significantly higher net photosynthesis (14.95%), stomatal conductance (60.47%), transpirations rate (54.58%) and vapor pressure deficit (14.14%) compared to 50% FC at 45 DAT. However, values of net photosynthesis at 90 DAT were 30.07% and 20.79% lower at 50% FC and 100% FC, respectively in comparison to the values recorded at 45 DAT as pathological process progressed. Inoculation of Bacillus subtilis @ 60 mL increased photosynthesis rate by 9.07% as compared to non-inoculated plantlets at 100% FC at 45 DAT. However, no significant difference observed when the plants were inoculated by Bacillus subtilis @ 40 mL and @ 60 mL under 75% FC condition. Therefore, inoculation of Bacillus subtilis @ 60 mL could be a promising biological control agent that can trigger resistance against Fusarium wilt in susceptible Berangan banana under water stress condition.

The present research was conducted to evaluate the ability of Bacillus subtilis to supress Fusarium wilt disease of banana in Biorichar™ amended soil under different soil moisture regimes. Banana plants were inoculated with different volumes of Bacillus subtilis (0, 20, 40 and 60 mL) given at concentration 108 CFU mLˉ¹ and subjected to three water stress levels based on field capacity (FC) viz. well watered (100% FC), mild stress (75% FC), and severe stress (50% FC). Banana plantlets were inoculated with Fusarium oxysporum one week after Bacillus subtilis were applied. The results showed that, minimum percentage of disease incidence in banana plants was recorded at high Bacillus subtilis rate (40 mL and 60 mL) at 50% FC. However, at 75% FC and 100% FC conditions, disease incidence increased from 35.28% to 45.09% following the time. Proline content showed 0.33% high under 75% FC compared to 50% FC at 45 DAT and similar trend was observed at 90 DAT. Malondialdehyde (MDA) content in banana plants was high in control treatment than those inoculated with Bacillus subtilis. 100% FC condition gave significantly higher net photosynthesis (14.95%), stomatal conductance (60.47%), transpirations rate (54.58%) and vapor pressure deficit (14.14%) compared to 50% FC at 45 DAT. However, values of net photosynthesis at 90 DAT were 30.07% and 20.79% lower at 50% FC and 100% FC, respectively in comparison to the values recorded at 45 DAT as pathological process progressed. Inoculation of Bacillus subtilis @ 60 mL increased photosynthesis rate by 9.07% as compared to non-inoculated plantlets at 100% FC at 45 DAT. However, no significant difference observed when the plants were inoculated by Bacillus subtilis @ 40 mL and @ 60 mL under 75% FC condition. Therefore, inoculation of Bacillus subtilis @ 60 mL could be a promising biological control agent that can trigger resistance against Fusarium wilt in susceptible Berangan banana under water stress condition.

Enrichment of soil fertility with organic amendment offers a new strategy for enhancing soil physical properties and improving soil fertility. Application of BioRichar can be a new alternative for adoption of organic banana cultivation in Malaysia. This study was conducted to determine optimum BioRichar rate for growth enhancement of banana cv. Berangan at vegetative stage. The BioRichar was mixed thoroughly with ultisol soil at 1.5, 3.0 and 4.5 t/ha, which were equivalent to 0.6, 1.2 and 1.8 kg/ polybag (size 16 x 16 inches), respectively. In the experiment, BioRichar at 3.0 t/ha and 4.5 t/ha improved plant growth characteristics significantly including plant height, pseudo-stem diameter, total leaf number and leaf area as compared to control. Application of 4.5 t/ha BioRichar changed total N, P, K, Ca and Mg significantly in leaves. Total N, P, K increased but Ca and Mg content decreased significantly, when BioRichar was applied at higher rate (4.5 t/ha). Meanwhile, proline and MDA contents in leaf tissue were higher in control as compared to BioRichar enriched plants. These findings suggested that optimum growth of banana cv. Berangan could be achieved with BioRichar at 4.5 t/ha applied at vegetative stages during acclimatization period prior to field transplanting.

A field investigation under tropical climate was undertaken in the research plot of the Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia to study the effects of exogenous application of plant growth regulators on growth performance, physiology changes and biochemical analysis of banana plants (Musa acuminata cv. Berangan) under irrigated and rainfed condition. The experiment was laid out as split-plot in randomized complete block design. Results showed that, banana plants grown under the rainfed condition significantly reduced morphological characters such as plant height, pseudo-stem, canopy diameter, but enhanced accumulation of proline and malondialdehyde content in leaves tissue of stress-treated plants. Physiological characters which include total chlorophyll content, relative water content and electrolyte leakage were measured and has indicated significant effect under two different water regimes. Application of plant growth regulators on Berangan banana under different water regimes able to tolerate water stress conditions by changes in vapour pressure deficit as affected by decreasing stomata opening besides enhanced net photosynthesis to produce higher yield of banana fruits.

Kajian ini bertujuan untuk mengenalpasti perbezaan skor aktiviti fizikal, jumlah pengambilan kalori, kalsium dan protein serta status kepadatan tulang warga tua di Rumah Seri Kenangan, Cheras berdasarkan jantina. Di samping itu, kajian ini juga dijalankan untuk menentukan hubungan antara skor aktiviti fizikal, jumlah pengambilan kalori, kalsium dan protein terhadap status kepadatan tulang dalam kalangan warga tua di Rumah Seri Kenangan, Cheras berdasarkan jantina. Kaedah: Reka bentuk kajian ini adalah kajian tinjauan deskriptif yang melibatkan 117 responden (L=71, P=46) yang tinggal di Rumah Seri Kenangan, Cheras. Kajian ini menggunakan borang soal selidik yang telah diadaptasi daripada Topolski et al. (2006) untuk menentukan skor aktiviti fizikal dan Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) untuk mendapatkan maklumat jumlah pengambilan kalori, kalsium dan protein serta penggunaan mesin kuantitatif ultrasound (QUS-2™) untuk mengukur status kepadatan tulang. Analisis yang digunakan dalam kajian ini adalah analisis deskriptif, ujian-t tidak bersandar dan korelasi bagi menghuraikan dapatan kajian. Dapatan Kajian: Analisis ujian-t tidak bersandar terhadap skor aktiviti fizikal menunjukkan tidak terdapat perbezaan signifikan antara lelaki dan perempuan pada aras kesignifikalan 0.01 iaitu responden lelaki (M = 4.51, SP = 1.25) dan perempuan (M = 4.17, SP = 0.71), [ t(113) = 1.834, p = 0.07 ]. Berdasarkan dapatan kajian tersebut, skor aktiviti fizikal kedua-dua jantina berada antara skor 4 dan 5. Analisis ujian-t tidak bersandar terhadap pengambilan kalori pula menunjukkan terdapat perbezaan signifikan antara lelaki dan perempuan pada aras kesignifikalan 0.01 iaitu responden lelaki (M = 3058.21, SP = 332.68) dan perempuan (M = 2420.26, SP = 246.76), [ t(115) = 11.16, p = 0.000 ]. Analisis ujian-t tidak bersandar terhadap pengambilan kalsium juga menunjukkan terdapat perbezaan signifikan antara lelaki dan perempuan pada aras kesignifikalan 0.01 iaitu responden lelaki (M = 2783.96

Banana (Musa acuminata cv. Berangan) is one of the most popular fruit and has great potential for commercial development since the current demand had increased drastically. However, in Malaysia, poor soil fertility, limited water availability and disease attack are among common problems in banana industry. In order to find a solution of the problems, a field study was conducted to determine the optimum enriched biochar rate for improvement of soil physicochemical properties, growth and physiological status of banana. In addition to field study, a glasshouse study was conducted to determine the effect of Bacillus subtilis inoculation in enriched biochar media and water stress on growth, physiological status and suppression of Fusarium wilt. Four different rates of enriched biochar (0, 1.5, 3.0 and 4.5 t ha⁻¹ ) were applied once by mixing with Bungor Series soil and put into a polybag with the size of 40 cm × 40 cm. One month old banana plantlets were used. The treatments were carried out for 3 months and arranged in a randomized complete block design with 4 replications. Meanwhile, in the second study, the media were prepared based on optimum rate of enriched biochar from the first study. The treatments consisted of two factors (water stress and Bacillus subtilis) arranged by split plot in randomized complete block design with three replications. The media were enriched with 0, 20, 40 and 60 mL Bacillus subtilis at the concentration 10⁸ CFU mL⁻¹ applied by soil drenching as pre-inoculation treatments and plantlets were subjected to 100% well- watered (WW), 75% medium-stressed (MS) and 50% severe-stressed (SS) treatments based on field capacity (FC) level. The plantlets inoculated with Fusarium oxysporum race 4 (FOC) one week after Bacillus subtilis treatments were applied and the plant were destructively sampled at 45 and 90 days after transplanting (DAT). The results found that soil microbial population, soil physicochemical properties (pH, CEC, total C, N, K, Ca an

Kajian ini bertujuan untuk mengenalpasti perbezaan skor aktiviti fizikal, jumlah pengambilan kalori, kalsium dan protein serta status kepadatan tulang warga tua di Rumah Seri Kenangan, Cheras berdasarkan jantina. Di samping itu, kajian ini juga dijalankan untuk menentukan hubungan antara skor aktiviti fizikal, jumlah pengambilan kalori, kalsium dan protein terhadap status kepadatan tulang dalam kalangan warga tua di Rumah Seri Kenangan, Cheras berdasarkan jantina. Kaedah: Reka bentuk kajian ini adalah kajian tinjauan deskriptif yang melibatkan 117 responden (L=71, P=46) yang tinggal di Rumah Seri Kenangan, Cheras. Kajian ini menggunakan borang soal selidik yang telah diadaptasi daripada Topolski et al. (2006) untuk menentukan skor aktiviti fizikal dan Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) untuk mendapatkan maklumat jumlah pengambilan kalori, kalsium dan protein serta penggunaan mesin kuantitatif ultrasound (QUS-2™) untuk mengukur status kepadatan tulang. Analisis yang digunakan dalam kajian ini adalah analisis deskriptif, ujian-t tidak bersandar dan korelasi bagi menghuraikan dapatan kajian. Dapatan Kajian: Analisis ujian-t tidak bersandar terhadap skor aktiviti fizikal menunjukkan tidak terdapat perbezaan signifikan antara lelaki dan perempuan pada aras kesignifikalan 0.01 iaitu responden lelaki (M = 4.51, SP = 1.25) dan perempuan (M = 4.17, SP = 0.71), [ t(113) = 1.834, p = 0.07 ]. Berdasarkan dapatan kajian tersebut, skor aktiviti fizikal kedua-dua jantina berada antara skor 4 dan 5. Analisis ujian-t tidak bersandar terhadap pengambilan kalori pula menunjukkan terdapat perbezaan signifikan antara lelaki dan perempuan pada aras kesignifikalan 0.01 iaitu responden lelaki (M = 3058.21, SP = 332.68) dan perempuan (M = 2420.26, SP = 246.76), [ t(115) = 11.16, p = 0.000 ]. Analisis ujian-t tidak bersandar terhadap pengambilan kalsium juga menunjukkan terdapat perbezaan signifikan antara lelaki dan perempuan pada aras kesignifikalan 0.01 iaitu responden lelaki (M = 2783.96

Hibiscus cannabinus (kenaf) plant is claimed as one of the fast-growing herbaceous plants with the high potential as a fiber or lignocelluloses material which is widely planted in Setiu, Terengganu, Malaysia. However, the stem rot disease was observed to be the most problematic in getting the good yields. Microbes associated with H. cannabinus that showing typical symptoms of rot-like disease were isolated using direct plating techniques. Koch’s postulates proved that Coniella musaiaensis was fungus that caused stem rot disease to kenaf out of four isolated fungi. Plant-pathogen interaction revealed the mechanism of infection by direct penetration of fungus through the outer surface of stems, since present of appressorium on the surface of host (H. cannabinus).

In practice, progeny and individual palm selection are believed to be the most suitable breeding approach for improvement of quantitative traits in oil palm because their phenotypic expressions are strongly influenced by abiotic factors. Therefore progeny selection approach was applied in this study for the selection of high fresh fruit bunch (FFB) and dwarf oil palm planting materials. Cross between Deli dura and Nigerian pisifera resulted into 34 D × P full sib progenies with 1036 seedlings. For six consecutive years, data were collected on yield and yield component traits, while vegetative traits were recorded once. Bi-parental analysis was carried out using analysis of variance, followed by progenies mean comparison, variance components, heritabilities and cluster analysis. Highly significant (P ≤ 0.01) progeny effect was recorded in this study and this had a pronounced effect on the expression of all the quantitative traits. Progenies performance of FFB varied significantly and it ranged from 166.49 to 220.06 kg/palm/year (kg/p/yr) with trial mean of 192.93 kg/p/yr. Palm height after 8 years of field planting ranged from 1.67 to 2.78 m (control cross) with trial mean of 2.12 m. Broad sense heritability (h2B) was found to be very low (<17.60%) for all the yield traits, however this parameter was high for vegetative traits with palm height having h2B of 90%. Cluster analysis based on all the quantitative traits grouped all the 34 DP progenies into nine distinct clusters. From this study, five progenies (DP3, DP4, DP5, DP8 and DP24) were identified to be high yielding and dwarf palms compare to trial mean. At density of 140 palm/ha, they will produce FFB of 28.63–30.81 t/ha and average of 29.69 t/ha which is about 27.15% higher in FFB when compared to the current planting material with FFB of 23.35 t/ha. In addition, the selected progenies possessed average annual palm increment of 29.82 cm/yr with range of 26 and 32.5 cm/yr which was 57.33% shorter than the curre

Hibiscus cannabinus (kenaf) plant is claimed as one of the fast-growing herbaceous plants with the high potential as a fiber or lignocelluloses material which is widely planted in Setiu, Terengganu, Malaysia. However, the stem rot disease was observed to be the most problematic in getting the good yields. Microbes associated with H. cannabinus that showing typical symptoms of rot-like disease were isolated using direct plating techniques. Koch’s postulates proved that Coniella musaiaensis was fungus that caused stem rot disease to kenaf out of four isolated fungi. Plant-pathogen interaction revealed the mechanism of infection by direct penetration of fungus through the outer surface of stems, since present of appressorium on the surface of host (H. cannabinus).

In practice, progeny and individual palm selection are believed to be the most suitable breeding approach for improvement of quantitative traits in oil palm because their phenotypic expressions are strongly influenced by abiotic factors. Therefore progeny selection approach was applied in this study for the selection of high fresh fruit bunch (FFB) and dwarf oil palm planting materials. Cross between Deli dura and Nigerian pisifera resulted into 34 D × P full sib progenies with 1036 seedlings. For six consecutive years, data were collected on yield and yield component traits, while vegetative traits were recorded once. Bi-parental analysis was carried out using analysis of variance, followed by progenies mean comparison, variance components, heritabilities and cluster analysis. Highly significant (P ≤ 0.01) progeny effect was recorded in this study and this had a pronounced effect on the expression of all the quantitative traits. Progenies performance of FFB varied significantly and it ranged from 166.49 to 220.06 kg/palm/year (kg/p/yr) with trial mean of 192.93 kg/p/yr. Palm height after 8 years of field planting ranged from 1.67 to 2.78 m (control cross) with trial mean of 2.12 m. Broad sense heritability (h2B) was found to be very low (<17.60%) for all the yield traits, however this parameter was high for vegetative traits with palm height having h2B of 90%. Cluster analysis based on all the quantitative traits grouped all the 34 DP progenies into nine distinct clusters. From this study, five progenies (DP3, DP4, DP5, DP8 and DP24) were identified to be high yielding and dwarf palms compare to trial mean. At density of 140 palm/ha, they will produce FFB of 28.63–30.81 t/ha and average of 29.69 t/ha which is about 27.15% higher in FFB when compared to the current planting material with FFB of 23.35 t/ha. In addition, the selected progenies possessed average annual palm increment of 29.82 cm/yr with range of 26 and 32.5 cm/yr which was 57.33% shorter than the curre

The vitamin E in palm oil contains high proportion of tocotrienol (70% tocotrienols and 30% tocopherols) while most other vegetable oils contain only tocopherols. Both tocopherols and tocotrienols are strong chain-breaking antioxidants. The interest in tocotrienols escalated when the other medicinal properties such as neuroprotective, anticancer and cholestrol-lowering were discovered. This report is based on studies carried out on the different vitamin E biosynthetic pathway genes in order to understand their molecular regulatory mechanism in the two important oil palm species, E. guineensis and E. oleifera. The expression profiles of the different genes correlate with oil accumulation period in the fruit mesocarp suggesting the pivotal role of vitamin E in maintaining oxidative stability of the oil. The presence of a set of common regulatory elements in the promoters of these genes indicate that the pathway is coordinately control by endogenous and environmental cues at the transcriptionl level. PCR-based SNP markers for routine screening of the oil palm breeding materials were developed using mismatch primers. Some of the innovative approaches used in our laboratory for functional studies to know the effects of sequence variants on the function of the vitamin E biosynthetic genes are described.

The vitamin E in palm oil contains high proportion of tocotrienol (70% tocotrienols and 30% tocopherols) while most other vegetable oils contain only tocopherols. Both tocopherols and tocotrienols are strong chain-breaking antioxidants. The interest in tocotrienols escalated when the other medicinal properties such as neuroprotective, anticancer and cholestrol-lowering were discovered. This report is based on studies carried out on the different vitamin E biosynthetic pathway genes in order to understand their molecular regulatory mechanism in the two important oil palm species, E. guineensis and E. oleifera. The expression profiles of the different genes correlate with oil accumulation period in the fruit mesocarp suggesting the pivotal role of vitamin E in maintaining oxidative stability of the oil. The presence of a set of common regulatory elements in the promoters of these genes indicate that the pathway is coordinately control by endogenous and environmental cues at the transcriptionl level. PCR-based SNP markers for routine screening of the oil palm breeding materials were developed using mismatch primers. Some of the innovative approaches used in our laboratory for functional studies to know the effects of sequence variants on the function of the vitamin E biosynthetic genes are described.