Compact localized boundary states in a quasi-1D electronic diamond-necklace chain

Zero-energy modes localized at the ends of one-dimensional (1D) wires hold great potential as qubits for fault-tolerant quantum computing. However, all the candidates known to date exhibit a wave function that decays exponentially into the bulk and hybridizes with other nearby zero-modes, thus hampering their use for braiding operations. Here, we show that a quasi-1D diamond-necklace chain exhibits a completely unforeseen type of robust boundary state, namely compact localized zero-energy modes that do not decay into the bulk. We theoretically engineer a lattice geometry to access this mode, and experimentally realize it in an electronic quantum simulator setup. Our work provides a general route for the realization of robust and compact localized zero-energy modes that could potentially be braided without the drawbacks of hybridization

Pathogenicity and sporulation of Phytophthora pinifolia on Pinus radiata in Chile

Phytophthora pinifolia causes the needle and shoot disease of Pinus radiata known as Daño Foliar del Pino (DFP) in Chile. The first pathogenicity trials with this organism utilized mycelial plugs placed on stem wounds. These resulted in lesions in the tissue, but did not reproduce the resinous bands on the needles, which are the most characteristics symptoms of the disease under natural conditions. In this study, stem inoculations were repeated, but to complete Koch’s postulates fully, and to confirm that P. pinifolia causes the symptoms observed on naturally infected trees, zoospore/sporangial suspensions were used to inoculate pine foliage. This method produced the same symptoms observed on needles infected naturally. These results confirm that P. pinifolia is the causal agent of the Daño Foliar del Pino on P. radiata in Chile and successfully completed Koch`s postulates for the first time. Pathogenicity tests on different Pinus spp. and hybrids showed a wide range of responses to inoculation with P. pinifolia mycelial plugs, from highly susceptible to resistant. Monitoring of sporulation revealed that the sporangia commonly remain on the needles for extended periods of time and their frequency of occurrence and dispersal appear to increase during the rainy season.Bioforest S.A. and Bosques Arauco, subsidiaries of Arauco Grouphttp://www.publish.csiro.au/journals/apdnhb201