Durable Resistance Research Articles

Study on the influence of tire polishing on surface texture durability and skid resistance deterioration of asphalt pavement

As an inherent attribute of asphalt pavement, texture durability is the essential reason for the change in skid resistance. However, different scale texture deterioration behavior remains unclear by tire wearing at present. To explore the influence of the durability of multi-scaled textures on skid resistance, nine pavement specimens were tested using the Harbin polishing and dynamic friction integrated experimental machine (HPFM). The pavement anti-skid texture tester (PATT-II) was used for high-precision texture scanning and reconstruction. The results show that the texture richness and skid resistance of the three types of pavements in 300 min polishing are ranked as Open-graded Friction Coarse (OGFC) > Stone Mastic Asphalt (SMA) > Asphalt Concrete (AC), while SMA presents the best durability, determined by the material skeleton structure of asphalt mixture. The macro-texture deterioration occurs slightly at first and then tends to stabilize in 300 min polishing. The micro-texture deterioration behavior is the same as the μHPFM, increasing rapidly at the beginning, then slowly decreasing, and finally remaining constant. This deterioration is caused by the asphalt damage and continuously wearing aggregate surface. The 2D-PSD deterioration behavior is more significant with a smaller texture scale in 300min polishing, and the most considerable contribution wavelength in the microscopic scale range is 0.15 mm–0.3 mm, which is determined by the adhesion characteristics and molecular mechanism between a mineral mixture and asphalt material. The influence of pavement texture on the dynamic friction coefficient is significantly different under different water film thicknesses, the micro-texture and macro-texture play the main roles in boundary and mixed lubrication, respectively.

Unlocking the catalytic potential of tungsten carbide coordinated with 3d transition metals in oxygen electrochemistry

As one of the keystones of electrochemistry, the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) offers an enthralling approach to oxygen monitoring, and energy conversion/storage. At present, only 3d transition metals (TMs)-based catalysts have proven to be reliable options for electrochemical O2 activation, while non-3d TM catalysts such as 5d tungsten (W) typically exhibit much lower electrochemical ORR activities. Herein, we propose a simple and controllable approach for accelerating the ORR and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) on the surface of tungsten carbides coordinated with 3d metal, i.e., TM3W3-xC (TM=Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, and Cu). Among them, Mn3W3-xC is found to display exceptional ORR activity (Eonset = 0.83, and E1/2 = 0.73 V), which is on par with that of the commercial Pt/C catalyst (Eonset = 0.84, and E1/2 = 0.75 V) in alkaline media. Furthermore, Mn3W3-xC has outperformed Pt/C in terms of durability and methanol resistance due to the carbon shell protecting the metal nanoparticles from agglomeration or dissolution in alkaline media. The coordination of Mn centers to the W3-xC surface not only allows the precise regulation of the electronic structure of W ions but also creates dual-metal sites (MnW) to facilitate interfacial charge transfer. Such electron transfer enables the MnW surface more electrophilic, in turn increasing its affinity for hydroxide ions. As a result, the MnW coordinated with the carbide surface has OER-favorable MnW-oxo and MnW-hydroxo configurations within their oxidized surfaces. Overall, this research discovered that the catalytic potential of inactive W elements in oxygen electrochemistry can be unlocked by coordinating with 3d TMs.

Post-fire bond-slip performance of concrete-filled stainless steel tube columns

Concrete-filled stainless steel tube (CFSST) structures exhibit superior strength, durability, and fire resistance. These attributes, coupled with their aesthetic appeal and corrosion resistance, make them highly suitable for a broad range of civil engineering applications, ensuring long-term performance and safety across diverse environments. This study investigates the post-fire bond-slip performance of CFSST structures to facilitate the strengthening and retrofitting of fire-damaged CFSST structures. The paper reviews the bond-slip performance and fire resistance of CFSST. A series of fire tests and push-out tests were conducted on 99 circular CFSST stub columns, considering variables such as fire duration, wall thickness of the stainless steel tube, and concrete strength. The analysis covers the slip mechanism, load-slip relationship, sliding load, ultimate displacement, and ultimate bond strength of specimens post-fire. The bonding force between interfaces transitions from cementation to mechanical interlock and ultimately to friction, with some overlap among these mechanisms. A positive correlation exists between sliding load and wall thickness when fire duration is short. For shorter fire durations, fire exposure reduces the ultimate displacement while increasing bond-slip stiffness. Finally, a formula is proposed to predict the ultimate bond strength of CFSST stub columns following exposure to ISO 834 standard fire conditions.

Flexible LaNiO3 film with both high electrical conductivity and mechanical robustness

Lanthanum nickel oxide (LaNiO3, LNO) films exhibit excellent electrical conductivity but poor mechanical properties, considerably limiting their further development in the field of flexible electronics. In this study, flexible LNO thin films of different thicknesses were fabricated on a unique two-dimensional (2D) mica platform using a simple metal organic deposition technique. The obtained LNO films exhibited a pseudocubic phase without impurities. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) characterisations proved that the films were well-crystallised, dense, and flat, with controllable thickness. In addition, the flexible LNO/mica element possesses low resistivity (5 × 10−4 Ω cm), translucency, and good bending resistance. The electrical resistivity can remain stable under various bending radii (r = 10∼2 mm), thousands of bending cycles, and a wide temperature range (28–200 °C), demonstrating good durability, mechanical stability and temperature resistance. Furthermore, a ferroelectric BiFeO3 film was constructed based on the obtained conductive LNO electrode, which exhibited typical ferroelectric characteristics. This excellent performance suggests that the flexible LNO electrode is promising for flexible electronic applications.

Variable response of eastern filbert blight resistance sources in New Jersey.

Eastern filbert blight (EFB), caused by Anisogramma anomala, is the primary limiting factor for hazelnut (Corylus sp.) production in the United States. In this study, 82 cultivars and selections shown to be resistant or tolerant to EFB in Oregon were field planted in New Jersey in 2017 and 2019 and evaluated for their EFB response under high disease pressure. The trees carry known single resistance (R) genes with most mapped to their respective linkage groups (LG), including LG2, LG6, and LG7, or they express quantitative resistance (QR, horizontal resistance). Disease incidence and severity was documented, stem cankers counted and measured, and the proportion of diseased wood calculated. The EFB disease response of some cultivars/selections varied considerably between New Jersey and Oregon while others were consistent. Trends were observed in relation to resistance source origin and LGs, which provide insight into durability and usefulness of resistance. In striking contrast to Oregon, nearly all selections with R-genes mapped to LG6, including those carrying the 'Gasaway' resistance allele, exhibited severe EFB infections (232 of 266 [87%]). This finding is of consequence since the U.S. hazelnut industry currently relies solely on LG6 resistance for EFB resistance. Further, for the first time, EFB was observed on several selections carrying LG7 resistance, specifically offspring of 'Ratoli' from Spain. Interestingly, selections carrying LG7 resistance from origins other than 'Ratoli' remained free of EFB, with one exception, all selections carrying LG2 (n=9) resistance also remained free from EFB. Interestingly, the EFB responses of selections expressing QR (n=26) more closely resembled the disease phenotypes they exhibited in Oregon. Overall, the divergence in EFB response between Oregon and New Jersey, where pathogen populations differ, supports the presence of pathogenic variation in A. anomala and highlights potential limitations of using single R-genes to manage the disease. Results also suggest trees expressing QR may be more stable across pathogenic populations.

Robust photopolymerized superoleophobic/superhydrophilic mesh for oil-water separation

Selective superwetting surfaces preserve the opposite superwetting properties of oil and water and have attracted considerable attention for their application in oil-water separation owing to their efficient surface energy since 2000. Among these surfaces, superoleophobic/superhydrophilic surfaces are considered remarkable because of their anti-oil properties. The coexistence of superoleophobicity and superhydrophilicity poses a challenge based on the traditional surface/interface theory. However, the fabrication of superoleophobic surfaces requires extremely low surface energy, which is achieved by introducing compounds with long fluorocarbon chains. However, these compounds are harmful to the environment. Herein, a mesh with superoleophobic/superhydrophilic properties was developed by coating a chemically etched copper mesh substrate with photopolymerized short fluorocarbon chains and water-insoluble hydrophilic monomers. This mesh can separate different types of oil-water mixtures with a separation efficiency of >99 %. The mesh demonstrated excellent underwater stability as well as chemical and mechanical durability. The water resistance and chemical durability of the mesh are stronger than those of the control copper mesh using metal ions and long fluorocarbon chains. Moreover, oil-water separation was achieved even after immersion in deionized water and salt, acid, and alkali solutions. In addition, the mesh preserves the ability of oil-water separation after being cleaned and reused for 10 times. The proposed superoleophobic/superhydrophilic mesh offers a solution for continuous oil-water separation and has prospects for developing anti-fouling/sweat-absorbing fabrics and self-cleaning surfaces.

Insights into bs5 resistance mechanisms in pepper against Xanthomonas euvesicatoria through transcriptome profiling

BackgroundBacterial spot of pepper (BSP), caused by four different Xanthomonas species, primarily X. euvesicatoria (Xe), poses a significant challenge in pepper cultivation. Host resistance is considered the most important approach for BSP control, offering long-term protection and sustainability. While breeding for resistance to BSP for many years focused on dominant R genes, introgression of recessive resistance has been a more recent focus of breeding programs. The molecular interactions underlying recessive resistance remain poorly understood.ResultsIn this study, transcriptomic analyses were performed to elucidate defense responses triggered by Xe race P6 infection by two distinct pepper lines: the Xe-resistant line ECW50R containing bs5, a recessive resistance gene that confers resistance to all pepper Xe races, and the Xe-susceptible line ECW. The results revealed a total of 3357 upregulated and 4091 downregulated genes at 0, 1, 2, and 4 days post-inoculation (dpi), with the highest number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) observed at 2 dpi. Pathway analysis highlighted DEGs in key pathways such as plant-pathogen interaction, MAPK signaling pathway, plant hormone signal transduction, and photosynthesis – antenna proteins, along with cysteine and methionine metabolism. Notably, upregulation of genes associated with PAMP-Triggered Immunity (PTI) was observed, including components like FLS2, Ca-dependent pathways, Rboh, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. In support of these results, infiltration of ECW50R leaves with bacterial suspension of Xe led to observable hydrogen peroxide accumulation without a rapid increase in electrolyte leakage, suggestive of the absence of Effector-Triggered Immunity (ETI). Furthermore, the study confirmed that bs5 does not disrupt the effector delivery system, as evidenced by incompatible interactions between avirulence genes and their corresponding dominant resistant genes in the bs5 background.ConclusionOverall, these findings provide insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying bs5-mediated resistance in pepper against Xe and suggest a robust defense mechanism in ECW50R, primarily mediated through PTI. Given that bs5 provides early strong response for resistance, combining this resistance with other dominant resistance genes will enhance the durability of resistance to BSP.

Highly Stable Polyimide Composite Nanofiber Membranes with Spectrally Selective for Passive Daytime Radiative Cooling.

Passive radiative cooling technology without electric consumption is an emerging sustainability technology that plays a key role in advancing sustainable development. However, most radiative cooling materials are vulnerable to outdoor contamination and thermal/UV exposure, which leads to decreased performance. Herein, we report a hierarchically structured polyimide/zinc oxide (PINF/ZnO) composite membrane that integrates sunlight reflectance of 91.4% in the main thermal effect of the solar spectrum (0.78-1.1 μm), the mid-infrared emissivity of 90.0% (8-13 μm), UV shielding performance, thermal resistance, and ideal hydrophobicity. The comprehensive performance enables the composite membrane to yield a temperature drop of ∼9.3 °C, compared to the air temperature, under the peak solar irradiance of ∼800 W m-2. In addition, the temperature drop of as-obtained composite membranes after heating at 200 °C for 6 h in a nitrogen/air atmosphere can be well maintained at ∼9.0 °C, demonstrating their ideal radiative cooling effect in a high-temperature environment. Additionally, the PINF/ZnO composite membrane shows excellent chemical durability after exposure to the outdoor environment. This work provides a new strategy to integrate chemical durability and thermal resistance with radiative cooling, presenting great potential for passive radiative cooling materials toward practical applications in harsh environments.

Basalt Fibre-Reinforced Polymer Laminates with Eco-Friendly Bio Resin: A Comparative Study of Mechanical and Fracture Properties.

Fibre-reinforced polymers (FRPs) are widely used in industry due to their impressive strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance and high durability. One of the primary components of FRPs is synthetic resins, specifically epoxy, which has been identified as harmful to the environment. To address this concern, an eco-friendly alternative made from basalt fibres and bio resin has the potential to reduce the environmental impact. This study investigates Basalt Fibre-Reinforced Polymer (BFRP) laminates manufactured using two bio resins, AMPRO™ BIO and Change Climate, comparing them to one conventional epoxy resin, WEST SYSTEM®, in terms of tensile modulus, strength and fracture toughness, as well as shear properties. The results indicate that BFRP laminates made with bio resins exhibit comparable or better mechanical properties to their conventional counterparts with tensile strength being between 6 and 17% more in bio resins compared to the conventional resin, thereby paving the way for further exploration of sustainable FRP laminates in future engineering applications.

Refinement of rice blast disease resistance QTLs and gene networks through meta-QTL analysis

Rice blast disease is the most devastating disease constraining crop productivity. Vertical resistance to blast disease is widely studied despite its instability. Clusters of genes or QTLs conferring blast resistance that offer durable horizontal resistance are important in resistance breeding. In this study, we aimed to refine the reported QTLs and identify stable meta-QTLs (MQTLs) associated with rice blast resistance. A total of 435 QTLs were used to project 71 MQTLs across all the rice chromosomes. As many as 199 putative rice blast resistance genes were identified within 53 MQTL regions. The genes included 48 characterized resistance gene analogs and related proteins, such as NBS–LRR type, LRR receptor-like kinase, NB-ARC domain, pathogenesis-related TF/ERF domain, elicitor-induced defense and proteins involved in defense signaling. MQTL regions with clusters of RGA were also identified. Fifteen highly significant MQTLs included 29 candidate genes and genes characterized for blast resistance, such as Piz, Nbs-Pi9, pi55-1, pi55-2, Pi3/Pi5-1, Pi3/Pi5-2, Pikh, Pi54, Pik/Pikm/Pikp, Pb1 and Pb2. Furthermore, the candidate genes (42) were associated with differential expression (in silico) in compatible and incompatible reactions upon disease infection. Moreover, nearly half of the genes within the MQTL regions were orthologous to those in O. sativa indica, Z. mays and A. thaliana, which confirmed their significance. The peak markers within three significant MQTLs differentiated blast-resistant and susceptible lines and serve as potential surrogates for the selection of blast-resistant lines. These MQTLs are potential candidates for durable and broad-spectrum rice blast resistance and could be utilized in blast resistance breeding.

Investigating intrinsic factors in pavement skid resistance deterioration using an integrated tribology model

To investigate the effect of different texture wavelength deterioration on pavement skid resistance, a tire-pavement tribology model was developed through theoretical derivation and numerical simulation, and five asphalt mixture specimens were used for full life-cycle performance analysis. The results show that simulation model can efficiently calculate stress contribution of each asperity on 3D texture, resulting in simulation outcomes closely matched those of the laboratory tests. Two-dimensional (2D) pavement profile and 2D-PSD show apparent consistency in initial and subsequent stages, it correlates with the asphalt film shedding and aggregate crushing during polishing. Intrinsic factors mainly determine skid resistance durability, which is closely related to the percentage of different particle size aggregates and skeletal structure of the asphalt mixture.

An Experimental Study on the Influence of Different Cooling Methods on the Mechanical Properties of PVA Fiber-Reinforced High-Strength Concrete after High-Temperature Action.

High-strength concrete (HSC) has a high compressive strength, high density, excellent durability, and seepage resistance, but its deformation ability is weak. Adding fibers can improve the physical and mechanical properties of HSC. Additionally, the HSC structure may face the threat of fire. In the process of fire extinguishing, the damage mechanism of high-temperature-resistant concrete is complicated due to the different contact conditions with water at different locations. Hence, it is essential to conduct pertinent research on the behavior of fiber-reinforced HSC with different cooling methods after high-temperature action. In this paper, polyvinyl alcohol fiber (PVA fiber) was selected to be added into the HSC to carry out high-temperature experimental research, so as to explore the apparent changes, failure pattern, and mass loss rate of the fiber-reinforced HSC using different cooling methods and analyze the influence of its residual compressive strength and flexural strength. The test results suggest that, with the increase in heating temperature, the color of the specimen's surface transitions from dark blue-gray to white, and the quantity of surface cracks on the specimen gradually rises. The mechanical strength gradually decreases as the heating temperature increases. At a consistent heating temperature, the mechanical strength initially rises, and then falls with an increase in fiber content. The maximum compressive strength and flexural strength were achieved at PVA fiber contents of 0.2% and 0.3%, respectively. For different temperatures and fiber contents, the mechanical strength after natural cooling is generally higher than that after immersion cooling. In addition, X-ray polycrystalline diffractometry (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) tests were conducted to analyze the compositional alterations and microstructure of the fiber-reinforced HSC following high-temperature exposure, accompanied by an explanation of the factors influencing the alterations in the physical and mechanical properties. Therefore, the findings of this study can serve as a valuable reference for the utilization of HSC in engineering structures and contribute to the advancement of HSC technology.

Ultrathin Carbon Textures Produced on Machined Surfaces in an Integrated Finishing Process Using Microabrasive Films.

This study presents research into the unique method of depositing carbon layers onto processed surfaces, during finishing with abrasive films, on a global basis. The authors of this article are holders of the patent for this method. What makes this technology outstanding is that it integrates processes, whereby micro-finishing and the deposition of a carbon layer onto freshly exposed surface fragments is achieved simultaneously, in a single process. Among the main advantages accruable from this process is the reduction of surface irregularities, while the deposition of a carbon layer is achieved simultaneously. Ultrathin graphite layers can be widely used in conditions where other methods of reducing the coefficient of friction are not possible, such as in regard to micromechanisms. This article illustrates the application of carbon coating, end on, on a surface processed with abrasive film, containing intergranular spaces, saturated with graphite. Thin carbon layers were obtained on two substrates that did not contain carbon in their initial composition: soda-lime glass and a tin-bronze alloy. It was performed through microscopic examinations of the produced surface, roughness analyses of these surfaces, and analysis of the chemical compositions determined by two methods, namely EDS and GDOES, proving the existence of the coatings. The aim of this paper is to prove the possibility and efficiency of using graphite-impregnated lapping films in the deposition process of carbon films, with improved surface smoothness, durability, and wear resistance. The produced coatings will be tested in regard to their operational properties in further research. The authors underline the potential of this method to revolutionize surface treatment processes, due to the significant advantages it offers across various industries.

Hydrophobic antireflective coatings based on the synergistic effect of hollow and solid silica for application in photovoltaic modules

Photovoltaic glass coatings with multiple functions, such as strong broad-spectrum antireflectivity, effective self-cleaning, anti-abrasiveness, stability, and durability, have great potential for improving and ensuring the outdoor operation of photovoltaic modules. In this study, alkali-catalyzed hollow and solid silica nanoparticles were mixed at controlled ratios by sol-gel method, and the resulting solution was modified with HMDS to improve hydrophobicity, and obtain refractive indices ranging from 1.45 to 1.13. Subsequently, based on the principle of gradient refractive index, a trilayer hydrophobic antireflective (TLHA) coating was developed, comprising a top layer (n = 1.13), a middle layer (n = 1.27), and a bottom layer (n = 1.44). The TLHA coating exhibited an average transmittance of 97.77 % in the wavelength range of 380–1800 nm, with a peak transmittance of 98.97 % at 572 nm, and a hydrophobic contact angle of 144°. Additionally, after 144 h of thermal cycling and 600 abrasion cycles, the average transmittance of the TLHA coating decreased by 2.43 % and 1.63 %, respectively, in the 380–1800 nm range, and the coating's pencil hardness reached 5 H. And further application results showed that the crystalline silicon micro-modules with the TLHA coating could exhibit a 7.63 % and 5.24 % increase in Jsc, as calculated from EQE and J-V curves respectively, and a 5.34 % increase in PCE, compared to modules without the TLHA coating. These results highlight the extensive applicability of the TLHA coating in enhancing outdoor photovoltaic operation efficiency, durability, and wear resistance.

Corrosion behavior of combination of laser beam welded UNS S32304 + SS304L in 3.5% NaCl solution

This study investigates the corrosion behavior of laser beam-welded UNS S32304 and SS304L in 3.5% NaCl solutions, focusing on the effects of temperature. The primary objective is to enhance the understanding of corrosion resistance in welded materials and inspire advancements in corrosion mitigation strategies. The methodology involves assessing corrosion resistance under varying temperatures and comparing the performance of laser beam welding (LBW) with that of the base metals. Scanning electron microscopy analysis reveals effective passivation, while quantitative analysis indicates differences in chloride ion coverage between the weld metal and base metals. Tafel plots and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy demonstrate enhanced corrosion potential and improved barrier properties for the weld metal. Results indicate a marginal reduction in corrosion resistance at 50 °C for both base metals. LBW metals corrosion resistance demonstrates superior performance, with only 5% reduction in breakdown potential compared to 10% in base metals. Compared to the base metal, it exhibits a substantial reduction in corrosion rate, ranging from 60 to 75%. This supports enhanced corrosion resistance and material stability. Additionally, similar results are observed after the analysis with scanning electron microscopy images, reinforcing the efficacy of LBW in improving corrosion resistance of LBW UNS S32304 and SS304L. These findings underscore the potential of LBW for applications requiring robust corrosion performance. By contributing to the understanding of the corrosion behavior of laser beam-welded materials, this study addresses a critical research gap in material science and corrosion engineering. Future research may explore long-term durability and corrosion resistance under diverse environmental conditions to further elucidate the mechanisms driving the observed differences in corrosion behavior.

Invasive sorghum aphid: A decade of research on deciphering plant resistance mechanisms and novel approaches in breeding for sorghum resistance to aphids

AbstractDuring the last decade, the sorghum aphid (Melanaphis sorghi), previously identified as sugarcane aphid (Melanaphis sacchari), became a serious pest of sorghum, spreading to all sorghum‐producing regions in the United States, Mexico, and South America, where crop losses of 50%–100% have been reported. Developing sorghum cultivars with resistance to this insect is the most sustainable strategy for long‐term pest management. To design cultivars with aphid resistance, comprehensively understanding the mechanisms underlying aphid survival, host plant resistance, and aphid–sorghum interactions is critical. In this review, we summarize the comprehensive efforts to characterize the aphid populations as well as their interaction with sorghum plants via hormonal pathways that trigger various genes including leucine rich repeats, WRKY transcription factors, lipoxygenases, calmodulins, and others. We discuss efforts made during the last decade to identify specific genomic regions and candidate genes that confer aphid resistance, as well as describe recent successes and potential challenges in breeding for aphid resistance. Furthermore, we discuss the use of disruptive technologies like high‐throughput phenotyping, artificial intelligence, or machine learning for developing aphid resistant sorghum cultivars. Integration of these new technologies has the potential to accelerate the development and design of novel traits that confer durable aphid resistance in new sorghum cultivars to defend sorghum against new aphid genotype development.

Superamphiphobic coating prepared via a two-step spray method: An effective coating for reducing VOCs emission from crude oil tank

In the petrochemical industry, crude oil adhesion in storage tanks leads to volatilization of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), causing environmental harm and economic losses. Superamphiphobic coatings show promise in addressing this issue, but current options face challenges like complexity, limited durability, and poor corrosion resistance. This work introduces a durable and corrosion-resistant superamphiphobic coating on Q235 carbon steel using the "paint + adhesives" two-step spray method. The first layer comprises polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and epoxy resin (E-44), while the second layer consists of fluorine modified silica nanoparticles (F-SiO2). The numerous and homogeneously dispersed fluorine on the coating imparts excellent liquid-repelling properties for both water and crude oil, with a water contact angle of 164.1 ± 2.4° and a sliding angle of 1.1 ± 0.1°, as well as a crude oil contact angle of 172.1 ± 0.9° and a sliding angle of 2.5 ± 0.5°. Systematic stability tests confirm the coating's mechanical and chemical stability, suggesting its potential in practical applications. Importantly, a crude oil tank with our superamphiphobic coating can reduce non-methane hydrocarbon (NMHC) volatilization by 77.4 % ± 7.8 % compared to an uncoated tank. This research provides a superamphiphobic coating to reduce crude oil loss and VOC volatilization in petrochemical enterprises, showing significant contribution to environmental sustainability.

The ACE1 secondary metabolite gene cluster is a pathogenicity factor of wheat blast fungus

Wheat blast caused by Pyricularia oryzae pathotype Triticum is now becoming a very serious threat to global food security. Here, we report an essential pathogenicity factor of the wheat blast fungus that is recognized and may be targeted by a rice resistance gene. Map-based cloning of Pwt2 showed that its functional allele is the ACE1 secondary metabolite gene cluster of the wheat blast fungus required for its efficient penetration of wheat cell walls. ACE1 is required for the strong aggressiveness of Triticum, Eleusine, and Lolium pathotypes on their respective hosts, but not for that of Oryza and Setaria pathotypes on rice and foxtail millet, respectively. All ACE1 alleles found in wheat blast population are recognized by a rice resistance gene, Pi33, when introduced into rice blast isolates. ACE1 mutations for evading the recognition by Pi33 do not affect the aggressiveness of the rice blast fungus on rice but inevitably impair the aggressiveness of the wheat blast fungus on wheat. These results suggest that a blast resistance gene already defeated in rice may be revived as a durable resistance gene in wheat by targeting an Achilles heel of the wheat blast fungus.

Management and breeding for rust resistance in legumes

AbstractRust diseases are a major concern in legume production worldwide causing heavy losses especially in developing countries that depend on grain legumes as staple food. Fungal species from Uromyces, Phakopsora and Puccinia genera are the main causal agents of the various legume rust diseases. They induce up to 100% yield losses on susceptible cultivars and are emerging as a substantial threat to global food security. Developing durable resistance to rust has thus become a critical breeding objective alongside efforts to improve cultural and disease management practices. This review specifically focuses on the recent advances in understanding and enhancing genetic rust resistance across diverse legume crops. Key topics covered include: (i) the diversity and host range of the rust species affecting legumes; (ii) the disease management strategies from cultural practices to chemical control; (iii) the available screening methods for identifying new sources of resistance; (iv) the genetic basis of resistance, encompassing both major resistance genes and quantitative trait loci; (v) insights into gene regulation and effector molecules leading to legume-rust interactions; and (vi) emerging genomic-assisted breeding techniques that can accelerate the development of durable rust resistance in legumes. Overall, this review highlights the progress made to date and the remaining challenges in sustainably managing rust diseases across diverse legume crops through integrated approaches spanning pathogen biology, advanced phenotyping, genetic resistance, and molecular breeding.

Vitrification as a Key Solution for Immobilisation Within Nuclear Waste Management

AbstractVitreous materials in the form of both relatively homogeneous glasses and composite glass crystalline materials (GCM) incorporating disperse crystalline phases are currently the most reliable wasteforms effectively used on industrial scale for nuclear waste immobilisation. Glasses are stable solid-state materials with a topologically disordered atomic structure in the form of solid solutions, i.e. solutions frozen via vitrification to a solid state without forming regular crystalline phases. Nuclear waste vitrification is attractive because of technological and compositional flexibility enabling hazardous elements to be safely immobilised and providing a glassy material characterised by high corrosion resistance, mechanical and radiation durability, as well as effectively reducing the volume of the resulting wasteform.