A new recipe for sustainable concrete has been developed at the University of Córdoba, capturing 181% more CO2 from the atmosphere than conventional methods. The use of carbonated water and recycled aggregates reduces greenhouse gas emissions and advances the cement industry's aim to achieve climate neutrality.
Researchers have expanded knowledge of hematite's magnetic and color properties to better understand past climates and environments. Hematite's presence on Mars may provide clues about climatic variations, water presence, and potentially life.
A study by the University of Córdoba has identified three key molecules that play a crucial role in the pig immune system against the pathogen PRRSV. These molecules, T-BET, FOXP3, and EOMES, regulate different aspects of the immune response, including cell activation and inflammation.
A new study by the University of Córdoba found that the success rate of vaginal deliveries in women with prior C-sections decreased during the first two waves of Covid-19 in Spain. Despite this decline, the overall success rate remained high at around 67%, suggesting that hospitals have adapted to the changing circumstances.
A study suggests using Atlas cedar as an alternative to adapt to climate change in Iberian Peninsula forests. The species, native to North Africa, shows similar adaptation patterns to other mountain conifers.
A study found that tree susceptibility to decline is driven by edaphology, with high water saturation areas prone to tree death. Slow-growing tree species offer greater protection from falling, while rapid growth rates increase the risk of pathogens and disturbances.
The study analyzed mortar samples, revealing three construction phases: one during Pompey's time (55 BC), another under Augustus (19 BC), and a final stage during the early medieval period. The composition of the samples indicated different quarries were used for each phase.
Researchers evaluate the impact of severe water restrictions on almond plantations, finding that complete irrigation suspension leads to high mortality rates. Sustained deficit irrigation may be a more beneficial strategy for new plantations, mitigating economic losses and preserving production.
A research study has developed the first national map showing the risk of exposure to the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus in Spain's deer populations. The study, which analyzed over 1,500 deer from 82 populations, identified hot spots where most tick bites leading to human cases have occurred.
Researchers at the University of Córdoba discovered that cytomegalovirus (CMV) accelerates immune system decline in all ages, not just the elderly. CMV reactivation leads to pro-inflammatory cell expansion, increasing cardiovascular disease risk by 20%.
A recent study has identified 18 species of the fungus associated with olive tree anthracnose, including the most widespread in Spain, Greece, Tunisia, Portugal, and California. The research found significant differences in virulence among species and geographic regions, paving the way for more effective control methods.
A team at the University of Córdoba has created a method to utilize lignin, a plant-derived substance, in drug synthesis processes for cancer treatments. The resulting 2.6-Dimethoxyquinone compound is highly valuable and can be used as a starting reagent.
A new photovoltaic solar heating system can produce domestic hot water using 95.06% of available energy, eliminating the need for fossil fuels and producing no waste or pollution. The system is designed to be versatile, sustainable, and economical, with potential applications in commercial and industrial use.
A new type of eco-friendly solvent, SUPRAS, has been designed to extract polluting substances from the environment and is more stable under various conditions compared to existing ecological solvents. The solvent uses rhamnolipids produced by bacteria, attracting and separating pollutants with a simple decantation process.
Crop diversification with perennial plants in rainfed almond trees reduces carbon losses by 65-73% and increases soil carbon sequestration. This approach has potential to mitigate climate change through long-term soil carbon balance.
A mathematical model based on 30 years of pollen data predicts a decline in pollination in Bavarian forests due to climate change. The study forecasts a reduction in birch trees in the region by the end of the century, with warmer summers initially favoring pollen production but ultimately leading to a decline in plant populations.
Researchers at the University of Córdoba developed an AI model that predicts how much water irrigators will use during different rate periods, optimizing energy usage. The CANGENFIS model combines AI techniques like fuzzy logic and artificial neural networks to model irrigator behavior and predict water distribution by rate period.
Researchers developed machine learning models that can predict daily solar radiation using only thermal data, improving upon existing methods in various geo-climatic conditions. The models have been tested in nine locations across southern Spain and North Carolina, showing significant improvements in accuracy.
A study evaluated Sentinel-2's potential to predict forage quality in Mediterranean permanent grasslands. The research group analyzed data from eight ranches in Andalusia, Spain, using the satellite's 13 spectral bands to detect changes in nitrogen, chlorophyll, and fibre content.
Researchers developed an AI system that analyzes 3D brain images to diagnose Parkinson's disease stages, providing a more precise diagnosis. The tool combines AI and 3D imaging to estimate severity based on neuronal damage.
Researchers at the University of Córdoba discovered that bovine milk contains antibodies that can neutralize SARS-CoV-2, potentially providing a natural source of immunity. The study found that consuming dairy preparations with high levels of these antibodies may help control infection and prevent disease.
A University of Córdoba study found that mixing two herbicides in laboratories results in a more effective and environmentally friendly method for controlling difficult-to-control weeds. The commercial mixture was shown to have a lower environmental impact than manual mixing, reducing risks and boosting effectiveness by 10-20%.
A study by the University of Córdoba has identified holm oak trees that exhibit greater resistance and tolerance to drought stress, root rot, and high temperatures. These 'elite' specimens may be used as molecular markers for drought-tolerant trees in reforestation programs.
Researchers found that Salmonella bacteria cannot penetrate through strawberry roots and reach the fruit, making it an unlikely dietary risk factor. Effective methods for preventing surface contamination, such as drip irrigation and proper handling during harvesting, can further reduce the risk of contamination.
A study analyzing 340 European soil samples reveals high levels of pesticide residues in conventional agriculture, while organic farming practices show lower contamination. The research emphasizes the need for regulations and reference points to protect soil biodiversity and quality.
Researchers in Spain found rock humidity in dehesas can sustain vegetation during droughts by providing an alternative source of water. Soil moisture levels varied between slopes, with the north-facing slope having higher biomass and NDVI values, indicating improved plant growth due to increased water storage capacity.
A new study has identified the transcriptome and proteome of Scrobiculariaplana, a bivalve used as a bioindicator for pollution. The database provides insights into molecular functions related to stress response mechanisms under pollution, helping to better gauge the effects on marine ecosystems.
A study found that 79% of households are willing to pay extra for cropping diversification, valuing agroecosystem services and socio-cultural benefits. The total non-market value of cropping diversification can be up to 47-95% compared to annual market revenues.
A recent study from Spain suggests that deficit irrigation can be a sustainable practice for almond production in the long term. Despite significant investments and water scarcity, the study found that trees subjected to severe deficit irrigation maintained stable productivity over six years.
Researchers from the University of Córdoba found that foliar application is an efficient strategy to increase zinc content in plants by up to 50%. This method was more effective than soil application and can be beneficial for growers in developing countries where diets are limited to vegetable products grown in low-nutrient soils.
A study by University of Córdoba researchers found that an atmosphere of intrafamily trust reduces the risk of schoolchildren engaging in problematic internet use. Family communication, particularly 'filial disclosure', is crucial in preventing cyberbullying and excessive social media involvement.
Researchers in the European Diverfarming Project introduced herbaceous species and aromatic plants to Mosel vineyards, reducing soil erosion and increasing biodiversity. The results show improved wine quality without negative effects on yield, suggesting a positive relationship between soil mineral acidity and wine quality.
Researchers at the UCO Dairy Laboratory found a link between milk pH and cheese-making capacity in Churra sheep, suggesting genetic selection can improve yield. The study analyzed over 1,000 sheep samples to identify optimal parameters for increasing cheese production efficiency.
Researchers developed a low-cost technology that harnesses excess grid pressure to generate electricity, reducing diesel generator use and carbon footprint. Annual savings and CO2 emissions reductions reached €2,400 and up to 9 tons respectively, benefiting farmers in off-grid areas.
A new system developed by the University of Córdoba's research groups can predict levels of amygdalin in almonds and classify sweet and bitter ones on an industrial scale. The portable equipment uses Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) technology to analyze nuts quickly and non-invasively.
Researchers at UCOLIVO Group reduce Verticillium wilt in commercial olive grove by integrating resistant crops and soil disinfestation practices, resulting in 3.1% Picual tree mortality vs 5.6% with traditional techniques. Frantoio trees show even greater resistance to the disease.
Researchers at the University of Córdoba have created a new, sustainable material by using wheat straw to manufacture polyurethane foams. The resulting foam exhibits desirable parameters, including high biodegradability and comparable performance to traditional materials.
A recent study found that pesticides in contact with plastic mulch can lead to delayed degradation, contaminating the soil and potentially harming the ecosystem. The use of biodegradable plastics was shown to have a higher percentage of pesticide sorption, leading to concerns about soil contamination.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that a Mediterranean diet improved endothelial function and reduced damage to the arteries in patients with coronary heart disease. The diet, rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, was shown to reduce the risk of another heart attack by half.
A recent study found a large number of potentially pathogenic bacteria on ticks infecting Bolson tortoises, highlighting the need for conservation strategies to protect these endangered species. Further research is needed to understand the tortoises' defense mechanisms against diseases transmitted by ticks.
A European team has identified the most urgent invasive species to eradicate in Europe, including the golden apple snail and water hyacinths. The study prioritizes species based on risk of establishment and impact on the environment and economy.
Researchers analyzed soil and sheep feces samples to determine contamination levels of microplastics in Murcia's agricultural soils. They found 100% soil samples contained microplastics, as well as 92% of sheep feces samples, highlighting the ingestion of plastics by livestock.
Researchers at the University of Córdoba have developed new molecules derived from cannabidiol, which induce the expression of heme oxygenase 1 and activate NRF2 to exhibit dual antioxidant activity. This mechanism has great potential for treating skin diseases like atopic dermatitis and epidermolysis bullosa.
Researchers at the University of Córdoba have developed a biocide additive that can be incorporated into traditional materials used in cultural heritage restoration. The new material, featuring carbendazim-clay complexes, shows improved antimicrobial effectiveness and long-lasting properties compared to existing solutions.
Researchers studied risk and protection factors for violence among children and adolescents, finding that victimization, morality, empathy, and social-emotional skills predict violent behavior. Reducing victimization in schools could decrease violence in different contexts.
A mathematical model has been developed to facilitate decision-making in inventory management, balancing performance of inventory and transport in a supply network. The model uses system dynamics methodology and can be applied to diversified crop systems, aiming to introduce environmental and economic benefits.
A research team from the University of Córdoba has developed a method to calculate tree water consumption, allowing for optimized irrigation systems. This innovation enables farmers to determine if their trees are consuming water at optimal levels or experiencing stress, enabling targeted watering and maximizing production.
A University of Córdoba study found that chronic school bullying victims experience deteriorated peer relationships, decreased social status, and loss of friendships. Maintaining quality friendships can act as a protective factor against bullying.
Scientists at the University of Córdoba studied new solar tracking strategies to maximize electric production. They proposed a tracking strategy that uses backtracking to avoid casting shadows among panels, resulting in an annual increase of 2% more energy production.
Researchers develop prediction models for spinach quality and safety using portable NIRS sensors, offering a fast, accurate, environmentally friendly, affordable and non-destructive solution. This technology has the potential to revolutionize quality control systems in the food industry.