Artículos (Cristalografía, Mineralogía y Química Agrícola)

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Estimation of the cooling rate of six olive cultivars using thermal imaging
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), 2021-02-17) Plasquy, Eddy; García, José M.; Florido Fernández, María del Carmen; Sola‐Guirado, Rafael R.; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Cristalografía, Mineralogía y Química Agrícola
Bringing the olive harvest period forward leads to storing fruit in field temperatures that risk jeopardizing its quality. Knowledge about the bio‐thermal characteristics of olives is crucial when considering their cooling, although published research on the subject is limited. In this work, the cooling rate of the fruit of six olive cultivars has been empirically determined by measuring the evolution of their low temperature under controlled conditions by thermal imaging. Based on these data, the cooling time needed to cool the fruit to 22 °C was estimated, considering the biometric characteristics of the individual fruit, a field temperature from 26 to 42 °C, and a room cooling temperature from −8 to −20 °C. The results showed differences among the cultivars and the need to further investigate the specific heat requirements for small varieties and the impact of the conduction factor on the heavier ones. The simulation suggests that between 2 min (for the light Arbequina and Koroneiki cultivars) and 5 min (for the heavier Verdial and Gordal cultivars) suffice to cool the fruit to the desired temperature with a room temperature of −16 °C. These results show the feasibil-ity of developing technological solutions for cooling olives before their industrial processing with industrial applications such as cooling tunnels on individual fruit.
Effect of Site Conditions and Fertilization Treatments on Morphological Traits and Mineral Content of Aloe Vera Plants
(Julius Kuhn-Institut Federal Research Center for Cultivated Plants, 2024) Boukour, Basma; Florido Fernández, María del Carmen; Lama Muñoz, Antonio; Amallah, Lamiae; Faiz, Chaouki El; Hassikou, Rachida; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Cristalografía, Mineralogía y Química Agrícola
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of various fertilizer treatments on the morphological traits and mineral content of Aloe vera plants. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse in Rabat, as well as two other fields in Skhirat and Sidi Bettach. The treatments including the ‘no application’, control F0 and three treatments which is compost (Organova) F1, compost combined with humus (Humivital) F2, and nitrogen (ammonitrate) 33% F3. The productivity of biomass was estimated based on the variables of morphological traits and mineral content. The effect of organic and inorganic fertilizers on the different variables of Aloe vera depends on the site. Significant effects were found for the most of the variables such as length, width, dry matter; ash content, manganese Mn, copper Cu, zinc Zn, calcium Ca, potassium K, carbon C, nitrogen N, sulfur S contents. Site effect was significant, with the higher values obtained for length, Width, Dry matter, Ash contents, Ca and N in Skhirat. Site effect was also significant for Mn and Cu in Sidi Bettach, and K in the greenhouse. The effect of the treatment F1 was significantly higher for the length and width of the leaves than F3 and the control F0, in addition F2 was significantly higher for the width of the leaves, nitrogen N and sulfur S contents.
Impact of Suppression of the SOS Response on Protein Expression in Clinical Isolates of Escherichia Coli under Antimicrobial Pressure of Ciprofloxacin
(Frontiers Media S.A., 2024) Recacha, Esther; Kuropka, Benno; Díaz Díaz, Sara; García Montaner, Andrea; González Tortuero, Enrique; Docobo Pérez, Fernando; Rodríguez Rojas, Alexandro; Rodríguez Martínez, José Manuel; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Microbiología; Instituto de Salud Carlos III
Introduction/objective: Suppression of the SOS response in combination with drugs damaging DNA has been proposed as a potential target to tackle antimicrobial resistance. The SOS response is the pathway used to repair bacterial DNA damage induced by antimicrobials such as quinolones. The extent of lexA-regulated protein expression and other associated systems under pressure of agents that damage bacterial DNA in clinical isolates remains unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of this strategy consisting on suppression of the SOS response in combination with quinolones on the proteome profile of Escherichia coli clinical strains. Materials and methods: Five clinical isolates of E. coli carrying different chromosomally- and/or plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance mechanisms with different phenotypes were selected, with E. coli ATCC 25922 as control strain. In addition, from each clinical isolate and control, a second strain was created, in which the SOS response was suppressed by deletion of the recA gene. Bacterial inocula from all 12 strains were then exposed to 1xMIC ciprofloxacin treatment (relative to the wild-type phenotype for each isogenic pair) for 1 h. Cell pellets were collected, and proteins were digested into peptides using trypsin. Protein identification and label-free quantification were done by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC–MS) in order to identify proteins that were differentially expressed upon deletion of recA in each strain. Data analysis and statistical analysis were performed using the MaxQuant and Perseus software. Results: The proteins with the lowest expression levels were: RecA (as control), AphA, CysP, DinG, DinI, GarL, PriS, PsuG, PsuK, RpsQ, UgpB and YebG; those with the highest expression levels were: Hpf, IbpB, TufB and RpmH. Most of these expression alterations were strain-dependent and involved DNA repair processes and nucleotide, protein and carbohydrate metabolism, and transport. In isolates with suppressed SOS response, the number of underexpressed proteins was higher than overexpressed proteins. Conclusion: High genomic and proteomic variability was observed among clinical isolates and was not associated with a specific resistant phenotype. This study provides an interesting approach to identify new potential targets to combat antimicrobial resistance.
Speciation and Ecological Risk of Toxic Elements in Estuarine Sediments Affected by Multiple Anthropogenic Contributions (Guadiana saltmarshes, SW Iberian Peninsula): I. Surficial Sediments
(Elsevier, 2011) Delgado Rodríguez, Joaquín María; Barba Brioso, Cinta; Nieto, José Miguel; Boski, Tomasz; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Cristalografía, Mineralogía y Química Agrícola
Recent studies have demonstrated that the Guadiana Estuary contains metal concentrations in excess of background values. Therefore, this work aims to document the potential environmental hazards associated with the availability of these metals in this environment of high ecological value. Mineralogical analysis shows that the sediments are composed mainly of quartz, albite, and clay minerals (illite, smectite, kaolinite, and vermiculite) along with several small, reactive compounds (including soluble sulphated salts, Fe–Mn oxyhydroxides, organic matter, and pyrite) capable of retaining metals, which can be subsequently released, causing environmental degradation. BCR sequential extraction shows that As, Cd, Cu, Mn, Pb, and Zn present mobile fractions with respect to the total metal content (41, 100, 57, 53, 70, and 69%, respectively) in any of the described reactive phases (F1 + F2 + F3).Calculated environmental risk indices demonstrate moderate to considerable ecological risk for almost the entire estuary, associated mainly with acid mine drainage from the nearby Iberian Pyrite Belt. In addition, the indices highlight several zones of extremely high risk, which are related to industrial and urban dumps in the vicinity of the estuary and to heavy traffic on the international bridge.
Sea-level Rise and Anthropogenic Activities Recorded in the Late Pleistocene/Holocene Sedimentary Infill of the Guadiana Estuary (SW Iberia)
(Elsevier, 2012) Delgado Rodríguez, Joaquín María; Boski, T.; Nieto, J. M.; Pereira, L.; Moura, D.; Gomes, A.; Sousa, C.; García-Tenorio García-Balmaseda, Rafael; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Cristalografía, Mineralogía y Química Agrícola; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Física Aplicada II
This study reviews data on sea-level rise during the last 13000 yr cal. BP (13 kyr) as recorded in the estuarine sediments of the Guadiana River (SE Portugal, SW Spain). We combined new data from a 63 m-long borehole, drilled through the entire postglacial sedimentary sequence, with information on five previously studied cores. By integrating sedimentological, geochemical and palaeontological proxies, we were able to make a palaeoenvironmental reconstruction of the Guadiana terminal palaeovalley during the last 13 kyr and propose a curve of sea-level rise for the SW Iberian Atlantic margin. Our foraminifera-based palaeoecological reconstruction, anchored to a 14C age model, reveals rapid sea-level rise from 13 kyr, interrupted during the Younger Dryas and resuming ca 11.5 kyr. The pace of marine transgression slackened ca. 7.5 kyr and since then has progressed upwards at a rate of 1.2 mm yr−1. Holocene–Anthropocene sediments from two boreholes were also analysed to assess the timing, levels and sources of trace metals produced by acid mine drainage from the Iberian Pyrite Belt. Study of metal/aluminium ratios through the profiles allowed background metal concentrations to be estimated from lithostratigraphic units older than ca. 5 kyr (i.e. unaffected by anthropogenic activities). Human activities are especially evident from 4.5 kyr (the beginning of the Copper Age), with anthropogenic sources of metal fluxes prevailing over natural sources (especially Pb, Co, Ni, and Mn, and, to a lesser extent, Zn, Cu, and Ni). Mining activities became particularly intensive between the late Bronze Age and the Roman period (3–1.5 kyr), when the highest metal enrichment factors were recorded: EFPb ≈ 2, EFCd > 10, EFCr ≈ 2, EFCu ≈ 3, EFZn = 1.4.This study reveals the utility of postglacial sedimentary records for reconstructing historical changes in regional water-sediment quality and separating natural and anthropogenic sources of geochemical contaminants.
Remediation Experiment of Ecuadorian Acid Mine Drainage: Geochemical Models of Dissolved Species and Secondary Minerals Saturation
(Springer, 2019) Delgado Rodríguez, Joaquín María; Barba Brioso, Cinta; Ayala, Diana; Boski, Tomasz; Torres, Sandra; Calderón, Edmundo; López, Flavio; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Cristalografía, Mineralogía y Química Agrícola
Acid mine drainage is one of the main environmental hazards to ecosystems worldwide and it is directly related to mining activities. In Ecuador, such acidic-metallic waters are drained to rivers without treatment. In this research, we tested a laboratory combined (Ca-Mg) Dispersed Alkaline Substrate (DAS) system as an alternative to remediate acid drainage from the Zaruma-Portovelo gold mining site, at El Oro, Ecuador. The system worked at low and high flow hydraulic rates during a period of 8 months, without signs of saturation.. Analysis of physico-chemical parameters and water composition (ICP-OES, ICP-MS) demonstrated that treatment effectively increased water pH and promoted the retention of about 80% of Fe, Al, Mn and Cu. Under acid conditions As, Cr and Pb concentrations decreased with Fe and possible precipitation of jarosite and schwertmannite. However, the homogeneous depletion of Cr at pH above 6 could be related to ferrihydrite or directly with Cr (OH)3 precipitation. After DAS-Ca, sulphate, phosphate and rare earth elements (REE) concentrations decreased to 1912, 0.85 and 0.07 mg/L respectively, while DAS-Mg contributed to form a complex model of minor carbonate and phosphate phases as main sink of REE. DAS-Mg also promoted the retention of most divalent metals at pH values over seven. Thus, this low cost treatment could avoid environmental pollution and international conflicts. Anyway, further investigations are needed to obtain higher Zn retention values.
Contrasted Impacts of Yellow Flag Iris (Iris pseudacorus) on Plant Diversity in Tidal Wetlands within Its Native and Invaded Distribution Ranges
(MDPI, 2022) Gallego Tévar, Blanca; Grewell, Brenda J.; Whitcraft, Christine R.; Futrell, Joy C.; Bárcenas Moreno, G.; Castillo Segura, Jesús Manuel; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Biología Vegetal y Ecología; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Cristalografía, Mineralogía y Química Agrícola
We conducted an intercontinental biogeographic survey to analyze the effects of an invasive plant species in its native and invaded ranges. Our study system included tidal wetlands colonized by Iris pseudacorus L. (yellow flag iris, Iridaceae) along salinity gradients in two estuaries in its native European (Guadalquivir Estuary) and invaded North American (San Francisco Bay-Delta Estuary) ranges. We hypothesized I. pseudacorus would impart more negative community-level impacts on plant species diversity in the invaded range compared to the native range. Our results show that the colonization of Iris pseudacorus has very different effects on the diversity of tidal plant communities in its native and invaded ranges. In the native range, I. pseudacorus promoted plant diversity by increasing evenness and species richness. On the contrary, I. pseudacorus greatly reduced plant diversity in the invaded range, being this reduction higher in those communities with higher species richness and diversity levels. In view of these results, urgent management practices are needed to control and eradicate I. pseudacorus from the inland Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Estuary since this invasive macrophyte is reducing plant diversity at local and landscape scales.
Pre-cooling and cold storage of olives (cv Picual) in containers with a capacity of 400 kg
(Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas-CSIC, 2022) Plasquy, E.; Florido Fernández, María del Carmen; Sola Guirado, Rafael Rubén; García Martos, J. M.; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Cristalografía, Mineralogía y Química Agrícola
The cooling of olives stored in containers with a capacity of 400 kg risk accumulation of respiration heat and subsequent fruit deterioration. Pre-cooling the fruit to 5 °C before cold storage was studied as a possible solution to overcome this obstacle. The fruit temperature within the containers was recorded daily for 14 days and oil was extracted at days 0, 4, 8, and 14. A second experiment eval-uated a rapid pre-cooling procedure at -18 °C for 3 min. No significant alterations at the level of the examined parameters were recorded. The internal temperature of the control container declined and stabilized at around 12 °C. The temperature of the pre-cooled fruit in-creased to up to 8 °C. The examined parameters showed no significant alterations in either experiment and the rapid pre-cooling treatment did not lead to any visible ‘chill injuries’. A pre-cooling treatment at 5 °C was successfully introduced at the farm of a small producer.
Physicochemical characteristics of playa-lake sediments located in the western External Betics
(Sociedad Geológica de españa, 2022) Halmos, László; Delgado Rodríguez, Joaquín María; Rodríguez Rodríguez, Miguel; Jiménez Bonilla, Alejandro; Díaz Azpiroz, Manuel; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Cristalografía, Mineralogía y Química Agrícola; Universidad Pablo de Olavide
In the western External Betics several temporal saline water bodies (playa-lakes) constitute singular environments that are pro- tected due to their ecological and hydrological values. Changes in their hydrological status due to both natural and human-induced changes alter the characteristics of their sediments. A detailed de- termination of the pH and electrical conductivity in the sediments of six playa-lakes within a range of degradation statuses was made in this study. The detailed examination of such geochemical variables has allowed us to establish three categories of degradation in the studied systems. Our results highlight the extreme vulnerability of this playa-lakes caused mainly by human activities, particularly tho- se related to land-use change for agriculture, as well as the necessity of its protection based on scientific criteria.
Capacidad amortiguadora de la contaminación minera en los sedimentos holocenos del estuario del Guadiana (SW España)
(Sociedad Geológica de España, 2022) Moreno Moreno, Ángel; Delgado Rodríguez, Joaquín María; Barba Brioso, Cinta; Nieto Liñán, José Miguel; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Cristalografía, Mineralogía y Química Agrícola
El estuario del río Guadiana se encuadra en el Sur de la Península Ibérica, concretamente en la frontera entre España y Portugal; el río atraviesa en su último tramo la Faja Pirítica Ibérica, donde se localizan importantes yacimientos mineros que han sido explotados en los últimos 5000 años. Ante el peligro que los drenajes ácidos, producidos por este tipo de actividades, suponen para el medio ambiente, se ha realizado un estudio mediante la extracción de testigos, a los que se les han aplicado diferentes métodos (estudio de su química, datación por C14, y estudio mineralógico) que han permitido obtener resultados que dejan al descubierto un sistema capaz de amortiguar de una forma natural muy eficiente los aportes que han llegado de la parte alta de la cuenca durante los últimos 13000 años, protegiendo así un ecosistema con un alto valor ecológico.
Use of a Biostimulant Obtained from Slaughterhouse Sludge in a Greenhouse Tomato Crop
(MDPI, 2022) Ávila Pozo, Paloma; Parrado Rubio, Juan; Caballero Jiménez, Pablo; Tejada Moral, Manuel; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Bioquímica Vegetal y Biología Molecular; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Cristalografía, Mineralogía y Química Agrícola; Junta de Andalucía; European Union (UE). H2020; Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICINN). España
Currently, the use of biostimulants is widespread in sustainable agriculture because they represent an alternative to chemical fertilizers. In this manuscript, we investigate the response of a greenhouse tomato crop grown in pots to a biostimulant obtained from slaughterhouse sludge applied continuously to the substrate under which the tomato crop was grown or applied directly via the foliar route. Two doses of biostimulant (0.7 and 1.4 g L−1), applied four times throughout the crop growth period (120 days), were used. During this period, the height of the plants, number of flowers and number of fruits obtained were measured. After 90 days of the growth period, the nutrient contents in leaves as well as the chlorophyll a and b contents were analyzed. For fruits, nutrient and lycopene contents were determined, and the equatorial diameter and average fresh and dry weight were measured. The results indicate a higher content of nutrients and chlorophyll a and b in the leaves of plants treated with the highest dose of biostimulant and applied continuously to the substrate. This higher content of photosynthesis pigments in the plant is possibly responsible for a greater absorption of N by the plant and, consequently, for better growth.
Girogonitos de carofitas en el Parque Nacional de Doñana: Su registro en sedimentos pleistocenos y holocenos
(ASOC ESPAN LIMNOL-MISLATA, 2024) Muñoz Rodríguez, Adolfo Francisco; Ruiz Muñoz, Francisco; Guerra, Liliana; Veiga Pires, Cristina; Toscano Grande, Antonio; González-Regalado Montero, María Luz; Abad de los Santos, Manuel; Carretero León, María Isabel; Monge Gómez, Mª Guadalupe; Arroyo Serrano, Marta; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Cristalografía, Mineralogía y Química Agrícola; Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia. Portugal; Junta de Andalucía; Dirección General de Investigación Científica y Técnica (DGICYT). España
Las caráceas constituyen un grupo importante de macrófitos acuáticos en el Parque Nacional de Doñana. En este artículo, se estudia la distribución de sus girogonitos en diversos medios de este espacio protegido (lagunas temporales, surgencias, caños, márgenes del río Guadalquivir, etc), relacionándola tanto con las variables físico-químicas como con la textura y mineralogía del sedimento. Se efectúa una revisión del registro geológico de este grupo en diversos testigos compuestos por sedimentos pleistocenos y holocenos.
Suitability of Volcanic Ash, Rice Husk Ash, Green Compost and Biochar as Amendments for a Mediterranean Alkaline Soil
(MDPI, 2023-04) Rosa, José María de la; Pérez Dalí, Sara María; Campos Díaz de Mayorga, Paloma; Sánchez Martín, Águeda; González-Pérez, José Antonio; Almeida de França e Miller, Ana Zelia; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Cristalografía, Mineralogía y Química Agrícola; European Union (UE). H2020
Today’s agriculture has the challenge of ensuring food supply for a growing population while human activity has already deteriorated about 40% of the world’s soils, reducing productive capacity and increasing reliance on mineral fertilizers. In this context, valorizing and recycling mineral and agricultural waste for use as substrates or soil supplements enhance a sustainable economy, as well as the development of activities focused on finishing the soil nutrients’ cycle. Looking for an effective solution to the massive waste generation and to enhance the agronomic qualities of soils, this study investigates the agronomic impact of contrasting inorganic and organic materials such as green compost (GC), wood biochar (WB), rice husk ash (RA), and volcanic ash (VA) as amendments to an alkaline Luvisol under controlled conditions. In this sense, barley seeds were planted and grown in a greenhouse under controlled conditions for 60 days on a soil amended with the aforementioned materials. The amendments demonstrated appropriate attributes for improving soil agronomic properties, enhancing the soil’s nutritional content with no effect on barley germination. The WB showed high aromaticity and abundance of refractory organic C. Both ash-rich amendments showed high P and K contents, which are important elements for plant development. The GC has high water retention capacity and an adequate C and N balance. Although the application of the amendments had no effect on barley yields, the plants from the ash-amended pots showed an increase of Photosystem II efficiency, indicative of a better physiological status. In terms of toxicological safety, the abundance of trace elements in soils and plants was investigated. All soils met the maximum allowable limits for these persistent pollutants. Nevertheless, longer-term tests on plants are required to determine the risk of Pb accumulation, particularly in soils amended with GC and compost-ash mixtures. The simultaneous combination of organic and inorganic amendments showed adequate agronomic attributes. WB analysis revealed its great recalcitrance and carbon sequestration potential.
Soil contaminated with hazardous waste materials at Rio Tinto mine (Spain) is a persistent secondary source of acid and heavy metals to the environment
(MDPI, 2023-03-23) Fernández Landero, Sandra; Fernández Caliani, Juan Carlos; Giráldez, María Inmaculada; Morales, Emilio; Barba Brioso, Cinta; González Díez, María Isabel; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Cristalografía, Mineralogía y Química Agrícola; Junta de Andalucía; European Commission (EC). Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER)
Mineralogical analysis and laboratory-based leaching tests coupled with speciation modeling were undertaken to quantify the potential for short-term acid generation and the release of trace elements from soils heavily contaminated with mine waste at Rio Tinto. Three different waste materials were considered as case studies: roasted pyrite, copper slags, and leached sulfide ores. The results showed elevated values of net acid generation (up to 663 mmol H+/kg), the major pools being potential sulfidic acidity and acidity retained in jarosite. Remarkable contents of As and toxic heavy metals were found especially in the slag-contaminated soil. Copper, Zn, and Pb were the most abundant metals in the acid leach solutions resulting from mine soil-water interaction, with peak values of 55.6 mg L−1 , 2.77 mg L−1 , and 2.62 mg L−1 , respectively. Despite the high total contents of trace elements occurring in soil, the mobile fraction was limited to maximum release values of 12.60% for Cd and 10.27% for Cu, according to the test leaching. Speciation calculations indicated that free metal ions (M2+) and sulfate species (MSO4 0 ) accounted for most of the dissolved load. Acid soil drainage is a secondary source of acid and heavy metals in the mine site and, therefore, an effective land reclamation program should ensure that acidity and metal mobility are reduced to environmentally sustainable levels.
Study of the biochemical activity and plant growth promoting bacteria in soils polluted with oxyfluorfen
(Taylor and Francis Group, 2023-08-13) Navarro Torre, Salvadora; Aguilera Salas, María; Ávila Pozo, Paloma; Parrado Rubio, Juan; Tejada Moral, Manuel; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Cristalografía, Mineralogía y Química Agrícola; Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICIN). España; Universidad de Sevilla. RNM365: Edafologia Ambiental
There is currently a great deal of information available about the toxic effects of oxyfluorfen on soil biochemical activity and microbial biodiversity. However, there is no information about how this herbicide affects plant growth promoting bacteria (PGPB) or their properties, such as biofilm formation, nitrogen fixation, siderophore and auxin production, and phosphate solubilisation. As such in this study an agricultural soil was polluted with the oxyfluorfen herbicide every 30 days at a dose of 4 L ha−1 for a total period of 90 days. During this experimental period, the dehydrogenase activity was determined, a count and isolation of cultivable bacteria was performed, and the PGPB and their properties were characterized. The results indicated that oxyfluorfen inhibits the dehydrogenase activity, with this inhibition increasing with herbicide concentration in the soil (69.9% compared to non-polluted soil). It also causes changes in the population diversity of cultivable bacteria in soils. Regard to the evolution of isolated PGPB, it was found that oxyfluorfen induces the growth of nitrogen-fixing, biofilm-forming, and siderophore-producing bacteria, while negatively affecting the growth of auxin-producing and phosphate-solubilising bacteria. These results suggest that oxyfluorfen modulates the properties of PGPB in a concentration-dependent manner.
Phenotypic trait differences between Iris pseudacorus in native and introduced ranges support greater capacity of invasive populations to withstand sea level rise
(Wiley-Blackwell, 2023-07) Grewell, Brenda J.; Gallego Tévar, Blanca; Bárcenas Moreno, G.; Whitcraft, Christine R.; Thorne, Karen M.; Buffington, Kevin J.; Castillo Segura, Jesús Manuel; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Biología Vegetal y Ecología; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Cristalografía, Mineralogía y Química Agrícola
Aim: Tidal wetlands are greatly impacted by climate change, and by the invasion of alien plant species that are being exposed to salinity changes and longer inundation periods resulting from sea level rise. To explore the capacity for the invasion of Iris pseudacorus to persist with sea level rise, we initiated an intercontinental study along estuarine gradients in the invaded North American range and the native European range. Location: San Francisco Bay-Delta Estuary; California, USA and Guadalquivir River Estuary; Andalusia, Spain. Methods: We compared 15 morphological, biochemical, and reproductive plant traits within populations in both ranges to determine if specific functional traits can predict invasion success and if environmental factors explain observed phenotypic differences. Results: Alien I. pseudacorus plants in the introduced range had more robust growth than plants in the native range. The vigour of the alien plants was reflected by expression of higher leaf water content, fewer senescent leaves per leaf fan, and more carbohydrate storage reserves in rhizomes than plants in the native range. Moreover, alien plants tended to show higher specific leaf area and seed production than native plants. I. pseudacorus plants in the introduced range were less affected by increasing salinity and were exposed to deeper inundation water along the estuarine gradient than those in the native range. Main Conclusions: Functional trait differences suggest mature populations of I. pseudacorus in the introduced range have greater adapted capacity to adjust to environmental stresses induced by rising sea level than those in the native range. Knowledge of these trait responses can be applied to improve risk assessments in invaded estuaries and to achieve climate-adapted conservation goals for conservation of the species in its native range.
Revalorisation of Fine Recycled Concrete in Acid Mine Water Treatment: A Challenge to a Circular Economy
(MDPI, 2023-07-31) Barba Brioso, Cinta; Martín García, Domingo; Romero Baena, Antonio; Campos Díaz de Mayorga, Paloma; Delgado Rodríguez, Joaquín María; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Cristalografía, Mineralogía y Química Agrícola
Currently, only 50% of concrete produced from construction and demolition waste is being recycled in Europe. This falls short of the European Union’s target of 70% by 2020. Moreover, this figure only considers coarse fractions (>4 mm), as technical issues arise when using fine fractions. In pursuit of a complete circular life for recycled concrete, this investigation explores the potential use of fine fractions to enhance the physicochemical conditions and reduce the element concentration of acid mine drainage. Two trickling sets were prepared using a filter holder, with acidic waters passing through a layer of recycled concrete aggregates. Results revealed an immediate increase in water pH to neutral levels, a reduction in solution oxidation, and the complete, or near-complete retention, of potentially toxic elements by the substrate (with retention percentages of over 99.9% for Al and Fe, between 43.1% and 61.1% for S, over 91.1% for Zn, and over 99.1% for Cu). The experiment also showed a significant increase in Ca levels (tripling the initial value) and some Mg in the water, which could promote the subsequent precipitation of carbonates and the retention of trace metals. In summary, this study demonstrates the effectiveness of using recycled concrete aggregates in a laboratory setting. Further investigation is necessary to evaluate the feasibility of implementing this technique at the pilot scale
Phytoaccumulation of trace elements (As, Cd, Co, Cu, Pb, Zn) by Nicotiana glauca and Euphorbia segetalis growing in a Technosol developed on legacy mine wastes (Domingo Rubio wetland, SW Spain)
(Springer, 2023-03-16) Barba Brioso, Cinta; Hidalgo, P. J.; Fernández Landero, S.; Giráldez, I.; Fernández-Caliani, J. C.; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Cristalografía, Mineralogía y Química Agrícola; Junta de Andalucía; European Commission (EC). Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER)
Sulfidic mine wastes have the potential to generate acid mine drainage (AMD) and release acid leachates containing high levels of iron, sulfate and potentially toxic elements (PTEs). Soils receiving AMD discharges are generally devoid of vegetation. Only a few metal-tolerant plant species can survive under such adverse soil conditions. This work investigates two plant species, Nicotiana glauca and Euphorbia segetalis, that have successfully colonized an AMD-impacted wetland area in south-western Spain. The uptake of PTEs from the soil by roots and their transfer and accumulation in the above-ground biomass were quantified. Results showed that these pioneer plants grew in patches of neutral soil within the wasteland despite the high concentrations of PTEs in the rhizosphere soil (up to: 613 mg kg−1 As, 18.7 mg kg−1 Cd, 6370 mg kg−1 Cu, 2210 mg kg−1 Pb and 5250 mg kg−1 Zn). The target organs of As, Cu and Pb accumulation were: root > leaf > stem in N. glauca, and root > stem > leaf in E. segetalis. Zinc and Cd showed a significant decrease in roots relative to aerial parts of N. glauca, and Co was preferentially partitioned in stems of N. glauca and leaves of E. segetalis. The soil–plant transfer coefficient values of PTEs in all parts of both plants were well below unity with the only exception of Cd in leaves of N. glauca (1.254), suggesting that roots acted as a barrier limiting the uptake of PTEs by plants. Interestingly, under the same soil conditions, N. glauca absorbed Cd in considerable proportions from soil and accumulated it in its leaves, while E. segetalis was not effective in transferring PTEs from roots shoots except for Co. In conclusion, soil pH and plant-related factors greatly influence the stabilization of PTE in the rhizospheric soil and produce inconsistencies in PTE phytoavailability. The findings of this study provide criteria to assist in natural remediation in other legacy contaminated sites worldwide.
Effects of culture system and substrate composition on micropropagated plantlets of two varieties of Stevia rebaudiana bert
(MDPI AG, 2023-02) Vilariño, Susana; Florido Fernández, María del Carmen; García, José Luis; Cantos, Manuel; Universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Cristalografía, Mineralogía y Química Agrícola
Background: Secondary metabolites in stevia leaves offer important therapeutic benefits. The germination problems of stevia seeds and the high heterogeneity of the resulting populations make micropropagation the preferred tool for obtaining a large number of plants in a short time. Until now, studies have focused on optimizing the action of growth regulators for the improvement of stevia micropropagated plantlets. In this project, we study alternative mineral nutrients in the substrate and two culture systems on micropropagated stevia plantlets to obtain proper amounts of enhanced plantlets. Methods: Criolla and Morita varieties; MS, MSM, and G substrates, and temporary immersion (TIS) and agar-medium systems were used. Biometric variables and damage to the cell membrane of the resulting plantlets were tested. Results: More productivity in the Criolla plantlets growing in MS solid medium and TIS. The Morita plantlets presented higher productivity in the solid MS, MSM, and G substrates and TIS. The explants growing in MS and MSM presented the highest productivity. The solid substrate was generally better than TIS. No damage to the cell membrane was found. Conclusions: The micropropagation efficiency of stevia plantlets of the two varieties has been enhanced without negative effects on their physiological condition. Consequently, any of the culture systems used, including bioreactors, can be of industrial application on a large scale.
Effects of Climate Change on Soil Organic Matter C and H Isotope Composition in a Mediterranean Savannah (Dehesa): An Assessment Using Py-CSIA
(American Chemical Society, 2023-09) San Emeterio, Layla M.; Martínez Zavala, Lorena María; Jiménez Morillo, Nicasio T.; Pérez Ramos, Ignacio Manuel; González Pérez, José Antonio; universidad de Sevilla. Departamento de Cristalografía, Mineralogía y Química Agrícola; European Union (UE). H2020; Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (MICINN). España
Dehesas are Mediterranean agro-sylvo-pastoral systems sensitive to climate change. Extreme climate conditions forecasted for Mediterranean areas may change soil C turnover, which is of relevance for soil biogeochemistry modeling. The effect of climate change on soil organic matter (SOM) is investigated in a field experiment mimicking environmental conditions of global change scenarios (soil temperature increase, +2–3 °C, W; rainfall exclusion, 30%, D; a combination of both, W+D). Pyrolysis-compound-specific isotope analysis (Py-CSIA) is used for C and H isotope characterization of SOM compounds and to forecast trends exerted by the induced climate shift. After 2.5 years, significant δ13C and δ2H isotopic enrichments were detected. Observed short- and mid-chain n-alkane δ13C shifts point to an increased microbial SOM reworking in the W treatment; a 2H enrichment of up to 40‰ of lignin methoxyphenols was found when combining W+D treatments under the tree canopy, probably related to H fractionation due to increased soil water evapotranspiration. Our findings indicate that the effect of the tree canopy drives SOM dynamics in dehesas and that, in the short term, foreseen climate change scenarios will exert changes in the SOM dynamics comprising the biogeochemical C and H cycles.

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