Artículos de revista DABA - ABES Aldizkari artikuluak

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Open Access
Morphometry and textural surface properties of heat induced whey protein microparticles
(Elsevier, 2025-09-01) Angós Iturgaiz, Ignacio; Vele, Lenin; Espinosa Rábanos, Isabel; Iturmendi Vizcay, Nerea; Fernández García, Teresa; Maté Caballero, Juan Ignacio; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD
The present work focuses on the study of four key factors controlling the process of whey protein microparticulation: protein suspension concentration (%WPI 2.5 % vs. 5.0 %); medium acidity (pH 4.5 vs. 5.5); denaturation temperature (80◦C vs. 90◦C); and particle size reduction method (180 bar x 1, 2 or 3 cycle(s); 1800 bar x 1 cycle). The effects of the microparticulation process were studied by analysing the degree of protein aggregation, morphometry, and surface textural characteristics of the microparticles. The results obtained indicate that the most favourable treatments to achieve a higher proportion of particles within the optimal range required by the food industry (1–10 μm) can be obtained by gentle protein denaturation (80◦C) using a medium with a pH lower than the isoelectric point of β-lactoglobulin and moderate concentrations of whey protein (2.5–5.0 %). Under these premises, it is necessary to use a high intensity particle size reduction method (1800 bar) to achieve the average diameter and the adequate homogeneity in a consistent fashion.
Open Access
Evaluation of the influence of rootstock cane characteristics on grafting success rate
(International Viticulture and Enology Society (IVES), 2025-03-10) Villa Llop, Ana; Crespo Martínez, Sara; Marín, Diana; Torres Molina, Nazareth; Cookson, Sarah Jane; Loupit, Grégoire; Bonhomme, Pierre-Olivier; Prodhomme, Duyên; Gramaje, David; Bujanda, Rebeca; Eraso Zabalegui, Javier; Santesteban García, Gonzaga; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura; Institute for Multidisciplinary Research in Applied Biology - IMAB; Universidad Pública de Navarra / Nafarroako Unibertsitate Publikoa; Gobierno de Navarra / Nafarroako Gobernua
The success of grafting in grapevine nurseries can vary significantly depending on the wood used, even if the same scion and rootstock are used, yet the underlying causes of this variation remain poorly understood. To elucidate the factors influencing grafting success, rootstock wood (Vitis berlandieri x V. rupestris cv. 110 Richter) from ten production fields - each representing different rootstock origins - in Spain and France was characterised and grafted to cv. Tempranillo, and grafting success rates were subsequently determined. Histological analysis of the rootstock canes was carried out to evaluate tissue dimensions (pith, xylem, and phloem), number of xylem vessels, and hydraulic conductivity, revealing significant differences, particularly in the size and presence of large vessels. Metabolite analysis (starch, sucrose, glucose, fructose, and proteins) and isotopic composition (δ 13C and δ 15N) further differentiated the batches. Grafting success rates were recorded after uprooting and showed positive associations with parameters of water status (δ 13C), nitrogen assimilation (δ 15N), and anatomical characteristics of the rootstock canes. These findings underscore the complex interaction of physiological, anatomical, and environmental factors influencing grafting outcomes in grapevines.
Open Access
Non-destructive spectroscopy-based technologies for meat and meat product discrimination: a review
(Elsevier, 2025-10-01) León Ecay, Sara; Insausti Barrenetxea, Kizkitza; López Maestresalas, Ainara; Prieto, Nuria; Ingeniería; Ingeniaritza; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD; Universidad Pública de Navarra / Nafarroako Unibertsitate Publikoa; Gobierno de Navarra / Nafarroako Gobernua
Consumers' confidence in products of animal origin is highly subjected to the quality guarantees offered by the manufacturing and retail industries. Traditionally, meat quality evaluation has been conducted through destructive, time-consuming and chemical-dependent protocols. Smart methodologies based on the non-destructiveness and/or non-contact with the samples, such as spectroscopy-based technologies, arise as an alternative promising tool. This comprehensive overview includes literature published in the last decade applying spectroscopy-based techniques in the Visible (Vis) and near-infrared (NIR) regions of the spectrum (Vis-NIR), either individually or combined with imaging (hyperspectral imaging, HSI), to classify meat and meat products based on ante- or postmortem factors. First, a brief introduction to the fundamentals of Vis-NIRS and HSI is included. Secondly, the main applications of Vis-NIRS and HSI technologies for meat qualitative purposes only are discussed. The Vis-NIRS and HSI have been successfully used in lab scale studies (> 90 % overall accuracy) to discriminate meat and meat products according to antemortem (feeding system, species, origin and breed) and postmortem (freshness, meat quality, label claims) factors. Recently, spectral data collected with handheld Vis-NIR equipment have become more frequent, although the use of portable HSI has not been widely explored. From the studies reviewed, the main concern regarding spectral data is to shorten modelling handling times, including strategies to both extract optimal wavelengths from NIR and compress spectral data from HSI. Despite the efforts made to overcome instrumentation and data processing challenges, a gap remains to be covered up to a real-time implementation in industrial line quality control.
Open Access
Comparative genomics of native plasmids from plant pathogenic Gammaproteobacteria
(Oxford University Press, 2025-04-01) Urriza Leoz, Miriam; Dimaria, Giulio; Oliveira, Luiz Orlando de; Catara, Vittoria; Murillo Martínez, Jesús; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura; Institute for Multidisciplinary Research in Applied Biology - IMAB; Universidad Pública de Navarra / Nafarroako Unibertsitate Publikoa
Plasmids are key in the evolution and adaptation of plant pathogenic Gammaproteobacteria (PPG), yet their diversity and functional contributions remain underexplored. Here, comparative genomics revealed extensive variation in plasmid size, replicon types, mobility, and genetic content across PPG. Most plasmids are small (< 200 kb), except in Pantoea, exhibiting high coding densities (76% to 78%). Five ancestral replicon types were identifed across multiple orders, indicating vertical descent yet effcient horizontal transfer across taxa, although with limited genetic conservation. Virulence plasmids are widespread (56% to 68%) but differ in virulence gene content across orders: type III effector (T3E) genes are common in Pseudomonas and Xanthomonas, but rare in Enterobacterales and Xylella, aligning with their smaller effector repertoires. Plasmids frequently carry regulatory genes, highlighting their role in bacterial phenotype modulation. Distinct patterns were observed among orders: Enterobacterales plasmids often harbor thiamin biosynthesis operons and transcriptional regulators but lack post-transcriptional regulators, while most Pseudomonas and Xanthomonas plasmids are mobile, enriched in T3E genes, and exhibit high insertion sequence densities, fostering DNA mobility. Resistance to ultraviolet light is common, but not to antimicrobial compounds. These fndings highlight the dynamic role of plasmids in spreading adaptive traits, shaping virulence, and driving the evolution of plant pathogenic bacteria.
Open Access
Preservation of milk in liquid nitrogen during sample collection does not affect the RNA quality for RNA-seq analysis
(BMC, 2025-05-24) Jiménez Montenegro, Lucía; Alfonso Ruiz, Leopoldo; Soret Lafraya, Beatriz; Mendizábal Aizpuru, José Antonio; Urrutia Vera, Olaia; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD; Universidad Pública de Navarra / Nafarroako Unibertsitate Publikoa; Gobierno de Navarra / Nafarroako Gobernua
Background. Standard procedures for milk sample collection for transcriptome analysis use ice as preservation method, which can afect the RNA stability and requires immediate sample processing. These problems would be eased if the milk samples could be snap-frozen in liquid nitrogen. This study describes the applicability of a new method for milk sample collection and subsequent RNA extraction from milk fat globules, determining whether the quality, integrity and quantity of the RNA extracts met the minimum requirements for downstream RNA-seq. Results. The quality of the extracts measured by A260/280 ratio and the Integrity and Quality (IQ) values obtained fulflled the reference values of 1.9 - 2.1 (P10.05) and failed to meet the RIN≥7 benchmark for RNA-seq (P>0.05). Milk fat globules contain low molecular-weight RNA fragments and minimal 18S and 28S rRNA, suggesting low RIN values were inherent to sample type. Likewise, the RNA concentration from milk fat globules were generally low (120.43±22.27 ng/µL, 102.87±15.64 ng/µL and 109.43±22.69 ng/µL, measured by Nanodrop, Qubit HS and QuanTI Ribogreen, respectively). Nevertheless, RNA-seq yielded 52.7 million paired-end reads per sample. The raw reads passed all quality control parameters having the same sequence-read lengths (151 bp), 100% base-coverage, 49% GC base content, and base quality scores of 36, enabling successful transcriptome profling. Moreover, milk proteins were identifed as the most abundant transcripts in MFG in the analysis of the most expressed genes, indicating that the sequenced reads would accurately refect the transcriptome of this milk fraction. Conclusions. Milk preservation in liquid nitrogen is a suitable sample collection method that overcomes the limitations of immediate sample processing required if ice is used. Thus, this procedure, together with the subsequent RNA isolation from milk fat globules and its sequencing by RNA-seq, would provide a practical and a non-invasive method for measuring the mammary epithelial cell transcriptome, improving the feasibility of conducting studies related to mammary gland and lactation physiology.
Open Access
Harnessing Chelonus inanitus for efficient Spodoptera spp. management: learning about production to explore roles in baculovirus transmission
(Elsevier, 2025-03-01) Dáder, Beatriz; Morel, Ariel; Muñoz Labiano, Delia; Caballero Murillo, Primitivo; Medina, Pilar; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura
Control of Spodoptera spp. (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) crop pests has traditionally relied on heavy insecticide use. Baculoviruses (BV) from the genera Alphabaculovirus and Betabaculovirus offer effective, species-specific alternatives for managing their outbreaks. Joint use of BVs with natural enemies, such as parasitoids, could further enhance control of Spodoptera spp. by contributing to virus dispersion. In a series of experiments, we studied the optimal host age and parasitization duration of the endoparasitoid Chelonus inanitus L. (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) for parasitoid production, as well as the parasitoid preference and mechanical transmission of Spodoptera exigua and Spodoptera littoralis multiple nucleopolyhedroviruses (SeMNPV and SpliMNPV). We found that parasitoid progeny production was significantly lower when parasitized eggs were either too young (24 h) or too old (96 h), highlighting the importance of host egg age. Additionally, there was an increasing trend in parasitoid offspring production with longer parasitization exposure times, particularly at 6 and 24 h compared to shorter durations. Chelonus inanitus did not discriminate between SpliMNPV-contaminated and non-contaminated eggs, but had a remarkable preference for SeMNPV-contaminated eggs. The parasitoid effectively dispersed BVs, not only from BV-treated eggs to heathy ones by parasitization, but also, and even more efficiently, by the sole contact with a contaminated surface without eggs. Understanding complex BV-parasitoid interactions is crucial for developing integrated pest management strategies that maximize the efficacy of both parasites.
Open Access
Quantifying the effects of water status on grapevine vegetative growth, yield, and grape composition through a collaborative analysis
(Wiley, 2025-05-14) Contreras Uriarte, David; Santesteban García, Gonzaga; Mirás-Ávalos, José M.; Buesa, Ignacio; Cancela, Javier José; Chacón, Juan Luis; Escalona, José M.; Intrigliolo, Diego S.; Lampreave, Miriam; Montoro, Amelia; Rivacoba Gómez, Luis; Visconti, Fernando; Yuste, Jesús; Miranda Jiménez, Carlos; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura
The consolidation of scientific knowledge is based on the accumulation and understanding of previous findings. Nowadays, reviews of the scientific literature have become more effective through the use of meta-analyses, which are systematic evaluations of the results from multiple studies. Similarly, mega-analyses, which combine raw data from many studies into a single sample for processing and statistical analysis, are a very powerful tool for analyzing results of heterogeneous origin but require a high level of collaboration between the researchers contributing data. In the framework of a collaborative methodology between different Spanish viticultural research groups, this work uses a mega-analytical approach to quantify the effects of changes in vine water status on vine vegetative growth, yield, and grape composition, integrating a wide range of growing conditions to obtain robust general trends of vine performance under water deficit. The mean seasonal stem water potential data from the different studies allowed a classification into five levels of water status (no deficit ⟶ mild ⟶ moderate ⟶ high ⟶ severe). A progressive decrease in vegetative growth with increasing deficit was observed, while yield decreased more markedly as water deficit progressed from moderate to high. On the other hand, titratable acidity was more sensitive to variation in water status than sugar concentration, with a greater decrease in titratable acidity when changing from no to moderate deficit. Conversely, increasing water deficit from moderate to high resulted in the greatest increases in grape anthocyanin in the red varieties explored. The results obtained in this work provide solid information on general trends in grapevine response to water deficit that can be used in simulation models or incorporated by grape growers in their decision-making processes in relation not only to irrigation management but also on other agronomic tools to impact grapevine water status.
Open Access
Integrated biowaste management by composting at a university campus: process monitoring and quality assessment
(MDPI, 2025-03-07) Álvarez-Alonso, Cristina; Pérez-Murcia, María Dolores; Martínez-Sabater, Encarnación; Irigoyen Iriarte, Ignacio; Sánchez Arizmendiarrieta, Joseba; Plana, Ramón; López, Marga; Nogués, Isabel; Bustamante, María Ángeles; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura; Institute for Multidisciplinary Research in Applied Biology - IMAB
The sustainable management of biowaste, mainly food and pruning waste, is currently a challenge due to the increase in its production. The CaMPuSTAJE program, which has been implemented on the campus of the Public University of Navarre (UPNA) since 2019, is an excellent example of how the institution is addressing its strategic interests in sustainable waste management. The principal aim of this program is to manage the biowastes generated by the campus canteens through a simple community composting facility, involving UPNA students and graduates. This program aims to promote experiential learning and applied research in sustainability and circular economy, managing their own waste in a circular and local way. Thus, four composting sets of the CaMPuSTAJE program were evaluated by monitoring the process and the main chemical properties of the composting samples. Also, final composts were fully characterized to ensure the process reproducibility and efficiency and the absence of any hazard in the end-products. The final composts showed a significant agronomic quality, had low content of potentially toxic elements, and were free from phytotoxicity, thus being able to be reintroduced as an organic amendment at the university campus itself.
Open Access
Carbon and water footprints of the revalorisation of glucosinolates from broccoli by-products: case study from Spain
(Elsevier, 2025-05-01) González Peñalver, José Miguel; Martínez Aldaya, Maite; Muez, Ane Maite; Martín-Guindal, Andrea; Beriain Apesteguía, María José; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD; Ciencias; Zientziak; Gobierno de Navarra / Nafarroako Gobernua
Assessing the costs, benefits, and externalities of circular economy measures from a life cycle perspective is increasingly important for developing sustainable agro-food strategies. This study evaluates the carbon and water implications of revalorising glucosinolates from broccoli by-products through two distinct life-cycle scenarios in a case study conducted in Navarra, Spain. In the first scenario, glucosinolates are obtained from conventional broccoli production, where they are naturally present in the edible inflorescences. The second scenario introduces an innovative step: extracting glucosinolates from otherwise discarded broccoli by-products, such as stalks and inflorescence detachments. Carbon and water footprints were analysed for both scenarios based on the production of 1000 grams of glucosinolates. The results reveal that while the second scenario enhances resource efficiency by utilizing agricultural waste, the environmental costs of the extraction process outweigh the benefits, leading to a 37.6 % increase in greenhouse gas emissions and a 4.6 % rise in water usage compared to the first scenario. To address this, an improvement scenario is proposed, featuring a more efficient use of solvents during extraction, which significantly reduces both emissions and water use. This study underscores that circular economy strategies in agro-food systems do not always translate into environmental benefits accross all resources. A detailed analysis of various carbon and water indicators has provided valuable insights to enhance the environmental performance of such strategies, reinforcing the importance of life-cycle assessments in shaping more effective agro-food policies.
Open Access
Baculovirus genetic diversity and population structure
(MDPI, 2025-05-07) López Ferber, Miguel; Caballero Murillo, Primitivo; Williams, Trevor; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura; Institute for Multidisciplinary Research in Applied Biology - IMAB
Baculoviruses can naturally regulate lepidopteran populations and are used as biological insecticides. The genetic diversity of these viruses affects their survival and efficacy in pest control. For nucleopolyhedroviruses, occlusion-derived virions and the occlusion body facilitate the transmission of groups of genomes, whereas this is not the case for granuloviruses. We review the evidence for baculovirus genetic diversity in the environment, in the host insect, and in occlusion bodies and virions. Coinfection allows defective genotypes to persist through complementation and results in the pseudotyping of virus progeny that can influence their transmissibility and insecticidal properties. Genetic diversity has marked implications for the development of pest resistance to virus insecticides. We conclude that future research is warranted on the physical segregation of genomes during virus replication and on the independent action of virions during infection. We also identify opportunities for studies on the transmission of genetic diversity and host resistance to viruses.
Open Access
Changes in the soil bacterial community across fairy rings in grasslands using environmental DNA metabarcoding
(MDPI, 2025-04-29) Marí, Teresa; Manjón-Cabeza, José ; Rodríguez, Antonio; San Emeterio Garciandía, Leticia; Ibáñez, Mercedes; Sebastià, M.T.; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura
Fairy ring fungi are considered keystone species in grasslands due to their strong impact on soil physicochemical properties, but their effect on the associated bacterial community is poorly understood. Here, we analyze shifts in soil bacterial diversity and community composition across fairy rings using Illumina metabarcoding. A total of 254,135 MiSeq reads and between 405 and 1444 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) per soil sample were observed in a montane grassland in the Eastern Pyrenees. We found a strong reduction in all bacterial diversity indices inside the ring-affected zones compared to the outside grassland, especially in the stimulation (current ring) zone. The exception were Firmicutes, the dominant taxa in the grassland, which increased their relative abundance further in fairy ring-affected zones. The recovery of bacterial populations after the fungal front passage highlights the strong resilience of the bacterial communities to this biotic disturbance.
Open Access
Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) biomass as a resource for obtaining glucosinolate extracts to control postharvest fungal diseases
(Springer, 2025-05-27) Eugui Arrizabalaga, Daniel; Fernández San Millán, Alicia; Velasco, Pablo; Veramendi Charola, Jon; Rodríguez, Víctor Manuel; Poveda Arias, Jorge; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura; Institute for Multidisciplinary Research in Applied Biology - IMAB
Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) is a crop of great agronomic and economic importance worldwide. Because its edible parts are the inflorescences, large quantities of non-commercial biomass are produced each year in the field and in the food industry. In order to develop a circular economy around the broccoli crop, the present work develops glucosinolates (GSL) extracts with antimicrobial capacity for postharvest use in tomato, apple and table white grape against fungal diseases produced by the pathogens Botrytis cinerea, Alternaria alternata and Penicillium expansum. GSL extracts from organic crop management reported a higher content of GSLs than conventional management. These extracts are not effective in the control of A. alternata and P. expansum, possibly due to the absence of sinigrin. Furthermore, the extracts were ineffective in the control of B. cinerea on table white grapes, possibly due to the non-climacteric fruit condition and an absence in the induction of ethylene-mediated plant defenses. However, intact GSL extracts were effective in controlling B. cinerea on apple, while the addition of myrosinase enzyme caused effectiveness also on tomato and apple. Therefore, obtaining GSL extracts with biopesticidal capacity against B. cinerea in postharvest could be a circular economy strategy for broccoli agriculture and industry.
Open Access
Appropriate harvest maturity for exploitation of wild black raspberry (Rubus sp.) fruits during shelf life period from Rawalakot, Azad Jammu and Kashmir
(AIMS Press, 2025) Hayyat, Sana; Maqbool, Mehdi; Hamid, Abdul; Shehzad, Muhammad; Anwar, Raheel; Horvitz Szoichet, Sandra Susana; Zahid, Noosheen; Khan, Muhammad Azam; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura
Black raspberries (Rubus sp.) are abundantly grown and distributed widely in temperate regions of Pakistan which shows rich plant diversity of fruit species. In this study wildly grown black raspberry fruits were harvested from Rawalakot at three different maturity stages and investigated for physical, biochemical and antioxidant properties. Random samples of wild black raspberry fruits from each maturity stage [turning (75% red, 25% green), full red (100% red), black (100% black)] were stored at room temperature (22 ± 2 °C, 46% RH) for maximum 7 days and analysed on alternate days. Results showed that fruit weight, total soluble solids, pH, vitamin C, total flavonoids, total phenols, total antioxidants and total anthocyanins increased whereas fruit firmness and titratable acidity levels decreased as maturity progressed from turning to black stage. During shelf life period, total soluble solids and pH increased, while fruit weight, firmness, total anthocyanins, total flavonoids and total phenols significantly decreased with shelf life period. Moreover, titratable acidity and vitamin C decreased by advancement in shelf life period. It is advisable that wild black raspberry fruits should be harvested at black stage if used for immediate consumption. However, raspberries can be harvested at full red stage to extend storage period without compromising on fruit quality.
Open Access
Comparative enzymatic browning transcriptome analysis of three apple cultivars unravels a conserved regulatory network related to stress responses
(BMC, 2025-04-12) Bielsa González, Francisco Javier; Grimplet, Jérôme; Irisarri, Patricia; Miranda Jiménez, Carlos; Errea, Pilar; Pina, Ana; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura; Institute for Multidisciplinary Research in Applied Biology - IMAB
Enzymatic browning (EB) endangers the adaptation of apple fruit cultivars to new markets, affecting organoleptic properties and producing economic losses. Polyphenol oxidases and polyphenol compounds play a key role in EB development in apple. However, the regulation of apple response to EB remains to be uncovered. In this study, three apple cultivars with different EB phenotypes ranging from low to high browning in apple pulp were used to study transcriptomic changes over time after fresh cutting (0, 30 and 60 min). This study allowed the identification of 1448 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), revealing both shared and genotype-specific responses, particularly in the affected metabolic pathways associated with EB. At 60 min (T60 vsT0), 77 DEGs were shared by all genotypes, suggesting a conserved regulatory network. This network included genes encoding for protein families such as calcium-binding proteins, heat-shock proteins, redox-responsive transcription factors, WRKY family transcription factors, zinc finger family proteins and disease resistance proteins among others. A co-expressed gene cluster, identified through Weighed Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis (WGCNA), was found to correlate with EB and included 323 genes enriched in several biological terms according to Gene Ontology analysis. Moreover, a more detailed analysis of identified WGCNA gene cluster regulatory sequences allowed the detection of cis-regulatory elements belonging to CAMTA, WRKY and WUSCHEL transcription factor families. The identification of these sequences alongside with an abundant and diverse amount of overexpressed transcription factors from various families (WRKY, ERF, GRAS, GATA, etc.) point out to a highly regulated stress-response that is strictly connected to innate plant immunity. These findings provide valuable insights into the molecular mechanism involved in apple fresh-cut browning and offer new potential targets for EB regulation.
Open Access
Alfalfa yield estimation using the combination of Sentinel-2 and meteorological data
(Elsevier, 2025-03-19) Gámez Guzmán, Angie Lorena; Segarra, Joel; Vatter, Thomas; Santesteban García, Gonzaga; Araus, José Luis; Aranjuelo Michelena, Iker; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura; Institute for Multidisciplinary Research in Applied Biology - IMAB; Gobierno de Navarra / Nafarroako Gobernua
Context: Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) is one of the world's most important forages for livestock feeding. Timely yield estimates could provide information to guide management decisions to improve production. Since alfalfa crops typically undergo multiple harvests in a year and demonstrate rapid regrowth, satellite remote sensing techniques present a promising solution for alfalfa monitoring. Objective: To generate alfalfa yield estimation models at three phenological stages (early vegetative, late vegetative, and budding stages) using vegetation indices (VIs) derived from satellite Sentinel-2 images and their combination with meteorological data. Methods: We analyzed fields located in Navarre (northern Spain) over two consecutive seasons (2020 and 2021). To generate the yield estimation models, we applied a conventional multilinear regression and two machine learning algorithms (Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator - LASSO and Random Forest - RF). Results: Regardless of the statistical approach, the three phenological stages were not optimal when either VIs or meteorological data were used singularly as the predictor. However, the combination of VIs and meteorological data significantly improved the yield estimations, and in the case of LASSO model reached percentages of variance explained (R2) and normalized root mean square error (nRMSE) of R2= 0.61, nRMSE= 0.16 at the budding stage, but RF reached a R2= 0.44, nRMSE= 0.22 at the late vegetative stage, and R2= 0.36, nRMSE= 0.24 at the early vegetative stage. The most suitable variables identified were the minimum temperature, accumulated precipitation, the renormalized difference vegetation index (RDVI) and the normalized difference water index (NDWI). The RF model achieved more accurate yield estimations in early and late vegetative stages, but LASSO at bud stage. Conclusion: These models could be used for alfalfa yield estimations at the three phenological stages prior to harvest. The results provide an approach to remotely monitor alfalfa fields and can guide effective management strategies from the early development stages.
Open Access
Effects of ozonation on the physicochemical properties and antimicrobial activity of virgin and pomace olive oils
(Wiley, 2025-05-22) Domínguez-Lacueva, Paula; Corella Guillamón, Paula; Cantalejo Díez, María Jesús; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD; Universidad Pública de Navarra / Nafarroako Unibertsitate Publikoa; Gobierno de Navarra / Nafarroako Gobernua
Ozonated olive oils are recognized for their remarkable antimicrobial properties. The reaction between ozone (O3) and unsaturated fatty acids leads to the formation of bactericidal compounds (ozonides, aldehydes, and peroxides) with valuable applications. This study represents the first comprehensive investigation into the effects of a wide range of ozone exposure durations (from 0 to 48 h) on the physicochemical properties and antimicrobial activity of both virgin olive oil (VOO) and pomace olive oil (POO), along with a thorough statistical analysis of the correlation between ozone dose and these parameters. The physicochemical indicators, including fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) composition, peroxide index, acidity index, iodine value, and viscosity, were measured at ozonation doses ranging from 0 to 1 mol O3. Significant changes were observed with increasing ozonation time, including a 69% and 46% reduction in oleic acid content, as well as increased peroxide values of 1255.2 mEq O₂/kg and 1878.8 mEq O₂/kg for VOO and POO, respectively. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated against Escherichia coli (STCC 45), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (STCC 109), and Staphylococcus aureus (STCC 239), with the highest inhibition observed against S. aureus (22.68 mm with POO at 48 h and 1 mol O3). PCA analysis identified three groups: low ozone doses (0–0.08 mol O₃) associated with higher iodine values; intermediate doses (0.16–0.5 mol O₃) linked to increased peroxide, acidity, viscosity, and antimicrobial activity; while high doses (1 mol O₃) provided no further benefits, suggesting that moderate doses are sufficient for effective antimicrobial activity. These findings highlight the potential of ozonated olive oils for novel applications in the food industry.
Open Access
Effect of PUFAs-ω3 and ω6 on oxidative stress of sheep erythrocytes
(BioMed Central, 2025-05-10) Pasciu, Valeria; Nieddu, Maria; Baralla, Elena; Contreras Solís, Ignacio; Sotgiu, Francesca Daniela; Berlinguer, Fiammetta; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD
Background: In recent years, the use of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) ω3 and ω6, as food supplements in livestock has increased due to their beneficial properties related to their antioxidant activity. It has been demonstrated however that a high intake of these substances has prooxidant and cell-damaging effects, especially if their circulating concentrations are unbalanced. Starting from these premises, and taking advantage of previous findings, the present study aimed at defining the optimal circulating concentrations and PUFAs ω3/ω6 ratio, to ensure the antioxidant/oxidant balance in sheep RBCs. Results: All tested concentrations (25–300 µg/mL in PBS) of PUFAs-ω3 after 4 h of treatment on sheep RBCs, showed antioxidant properties with a significant decrease in reactive oxygen species (ROS) versus the control group (CTRL) (p < 0.05). Furthermore, ω6 showed an antioxidant effect at low concentrations (25–200 g/mL) but a pro-oxidant effect at the highest concentrations (250 and 300 µg/mL) with a significant increase in ROS production (123.6 ± 2.1 and 131.4 ± 6.5% sloope RFU of CTRL respectively p < 0,001), malondialdehyde (MDA) (p < 0.01), and haemolysis (p < 0.01) versus CTRL group (1.1 ± 0.1%), and, also with a decrease of Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) (p < 0,05). The ratio ω3/ω6 of 1:10 (25/250 µg/mL) and 1:4 (25/100 µg/mL) showed an intracellular ROS level like the CTRL group whereas, the ratio 1:2 (100/200 µg/mL) resulted in a significant decrease in ROS production (62.71 ± 2.31% slope RFU of CTRL, p < 0.001) and MDA (p < 0.001), with an increase in TEAC (p < 0.05), and a decrease haemolysis versus the control group (p < 0,01). Conclusions: Our results showed that a beneficial effect on the oxidative state of sheep RBCs was obtained with in vitro administration of low concentrations of ω6 and with all tested concentrations of ω3. The addition of ω6 at high concentrations leads to an imbalance in the PUFA ω3/ω6 ratio, compromising the oxidative state and viability of the RBCs. The maximum antioxidative effect was found at ω3/ω6 ratio 1:2).
Open Access
Transfering sustainability competences through green pedagogies and service-learning in higher education
(European Center of Sustainable Development, 2025-02-01) Cantalejo Díez, María Jesús; Martínez Aldaya, Maite; Navarlaz Fernández, Isabel; Ciencias; Zientziak; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura
Sustainability competences are reflected in the ability to look ahead to change and shape the future of the societies in which they live through active participation in the sense of sustainable development. Through service-learning, students take responsibility for their actions. The complex nature of sustainability issues makes it useful to explore problems and their solutions holistically. In the framework of the NEMOS project (A New Educational Model for Acquiring Sustainability Competences through Service-Learning), a collaborative process was initiated to pool the knowledge and experience of five Higher Education Institutions working together to implement new educational models for effectively acquiring sustainability competences through service-learning in food-related degrees. This EU-funded project was launched and aimed to advance the transition to sustainability education through practical and innovative educational approaches and interventions. Green pedagogy can support transformative learning through the exploration and clarification of learners
Open Access
Cubierta vegetal bajo las cepas: una alternativa al control de las malas hierbas en los viñedos
(INTIA (Tecnologías e Infraestructuras Agroalimentarias), 2023) Abad Zamora, Francisco Javier; Cibriain Sabalza, Félix; Sagüés Sarasa, Ana; Santesteban García, Gonzaga; Lezáun San Martín, Juan Antonio; Fabo Boneta, Jesús María; Virto Quecedo, Íñigo; Imbert Rodríguez, Bosco; Marín Arroyo, Remedios; Garbisu Crespo, Carlos; Ciencias; Zientziak; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura; Institute for Multidisciplinary Research in Applied Biology - IMAB; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD
En este artículo se presentan los resultados obtenidos con una cubierta vegetal de trébol sembrada bajo las cepas para competir con las malas hierbas, de manera que no sea necesario recurrir al empleo de herbicidas o laboreos intercepas.
Open Access
La llegada de la carne artificial y sus consecuencias para la ganadería
(Asociacion the Conversation España, 2021-02-02) Mendizábal Aizpuru, José Antonio; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD
En la actualidad existe un intenso debate sobre los hábitos alimentarios y su influencia en aspectos como la salud, la preservación del medio ambiente (biodiversidad, emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero, calentamiento global...) o el bienestar animal.