Latest news with #UniversityofSeville
Eyewitness News
5 hours ago
- Climate
- Eyewitness News
Spain suffers third wildfire death, Greece beats back flames
MADRID - Spain on Thursday mourned its third wildfire death this week and Greece began beating back a blaze threatening its third-largest city as an unrelenting heatwave stoked tinderbox conditions in southern Europe. The extreme summer heat, which scientists say human-driven climate change is lengthening and intensifying, has fuelled blazes and stretched firefighters across the region, including Portugal and the Balkans. The fires have particularly scorched Spain, devouring over 157,000 hectares (388,000 acres) this year - more than triple the area burned during the same period in 2024. Spanish authorities said one person battling flames in the northwestern Castile and Leon region had died, taking the toll to three after earlier reporting fatalities there and near Madrid this week. Climate change is fuelling larger, more intense wildfires like those in Spain that can alter upper-atmosphere dynamics and create unpredictable winds, making fire behaviour harder to forecast, said Antonio Jordan Lopez, a wildfire expert at the University of Seville. "Picture a fire so fierce, so fast, and so unpredictable it seems alive, capable of reshaping the weather around it and leaping across kilometres in a heartbeat," he added. France announced it would send two water bombers to Spain, which has appealed to the European Union for aircraft to reinforce hard-pressed firefighting teams battling on several fronts, notably in the northwest. Thousands of people have been evacuated from their homes this week in Spain because of the fires, mostly in Castile and Leon. ARSON ARRESTS Greece, which has also requested EU assistance against wildfires, gained ground against a major blaze that had closed in on the western port city of Patras. Firefighters there faced "scattered" pockets of flames, but the fire was "still active" in the eastern outskirts of the city of 250,000 people, fire brigade spokesman Vassilis Vathrakogiannis said. Some 600 ground crews and nearly 30 water bombing aircraft were deployed from dawn in all locations, he said, but gentler winds were helping the firefighting effort. Major outbreaks also stretched emergency services on the tourist island of Zante, the Aegean island of Chios and near the western town of Preveza. Citing data from the EU's Copernicus satellite monitoring programme, the National Observatory of Athens said those fires and the Patras blaze had burned more than 10,000 hectares. Authorities said three men aged 19 to 27 had been detained on suspicion of starting some of the fires around Patras on Tuesday. Spanish investigators said Thursday they had arrested four people suspected of starting forest fires, taking the total number of accused this summer to 30. 'IT WAS FRIGHTENING' Portugal mobilised more than 1,900 firefighters against four major blazes, with one in the central area of Trancoso having razed an estimated 14,000 hectares since Saturday. Another front that broke out on Wednesday in the mountainous central Arganil area occupied more than 800 firefighters. "The flames were enormous... it was frightening," a woman in the village of Mourisia told Sic Noticias television as she gazed at a slope enveloped in thick smoke. Although vulnerable and elderly people had been evacuated as a precaution, Antonio Silva refused to leave the village overnight. "I wanted to be here to help," said the man in his 70s, his face shielded with a mask. Expecting tough conditions Friday, the government has extended a state of alert until Sunday, Interior Minister Maria Lucia Amaral said. The measures bar access to forest areas, suspend some farm work and ban fireworks. The Balkans appeared to have overcome the worst of an exceptionally strong heatwave that worsened its traditional fire season, destroying homes and prompting the evacuation of thousands. Albanian firefighters continued to struggle against blazes around the country, with reports of more homes lost overnight. In neighbouring Montenegro, easing conditions and water-bombing aircraft helped gain the upper hand against wildfires. Tourist hotspots Rome and Venice were among 16 Italian cities placed on red alert for extreme heat, with peaks of 39 Celsius predicted for Florence on the eve of a busy holiday weekend.
Barnama
30-07-2025
- Barnama
- Expanding Horizons: Erasmus+ Programme Transforms UPM Postgraduate Perspectives
Opinions on topical issues from thought leaders, columnists and editors. Through the ERASMUS+ Programme, two postgraduate students from Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) were given the invaluable opportunity to spend three months at the University of Seville, Spain. Studying abroad is not just about education. It is about transformation. A transformation that changes the way one views new cultures, ideas, and perspectives. Guided by two dedicated supervisors, this journey from May to July was filled with learning, discovery, and personal growth. What began as an academic attachment quickly became a transformative chapter, offering lessons that extended far beyond the classroom. The ERASMUS+ Programme is the European Union's flagship programme for education, training, youth, and sport. It aims to support the mobility of students, staff, and educators, and to promote international collaboration and intercultural understanding. Under the guidance of the local professor, Prof Maria Jose Lera Rodriguez, the students were immersed in academic discussions, research activities, and knowledge-sharing sessions that significantly contributed to their academic growth. The University of Seville, located in the vibrant region of Andalucía, served as the academic home for the UPM students during the programme. Known for its historical legacy and international outlook, the institution provided a nurturing environment for scholarly engagement and development. Moreover, learning directly from one of the host university's renowned professors enabled the participants to broaden their theoretical perspectives and strengthen their research methodologies. The students also had the privilege to participate in an international academic conference such as the Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale (ECERS) Conference where they were able to learn about the research done by fellow scholars from across Europe and beyond. Engaging with academics from various disciplines and backgrounds provided valuable feedback and fostered an appreciation for diverse research approaches. This experience greatly boosted their confidence and competence in navigating academic discourse at an international level. Another key highlight of the ERASMUS+ journey was the participation in an international seminar tailored for ERASMUS+ students. The seminar brought together students from countries such as Sweden, Norway, Spain and Finland, forming a vibrant mosaic of ideas, cultures, and perspectives. Throughout the sessions, participants explored themes such as intercultural collaboration, sustainable development, and the role of youth in global transformation. These discussions emphasised shared global challenges while celebrating the uniqueness of each participant's cultural and academic context. The Malaysian representatives were able to contribute by sharing insights from their own country while learning from the experiences of others. This multicultural platform fostered friendships, encouraged intellectual exchange, and highlight the importance of open-mindedness in a rapidly globalising world. It became clear to the participants that beyond academic credentials, the true value of such programmes lies in the relationships built and the mutual understanding achieved. Learning beyond the classroom Outside the formal academic setting, Seville offered a rich and dynamic environment for experiential learning. From the moment the students arrived, they were welcomed into a city steeped in history, art and tradition. Whether wandering through the gothic architecture of Seville Cathedral or experiencing the passion of flamenco music in local plazas, every moment served as a cultural lesson. Through daily interactions, they gradually adapted to the Spanish way of life, learning not just academic content but also the Spanish language, customs, and social etiquette. While language barriers initially posed a challenge, perseverance and practice helped them build confidence in basic communication. The learning extended beyond textbooks, as the students picked up phrases through conversations with locals, market visits, and public transportation experiences. The ERASMUS+ participants also had the chance to introduce Malaysian culture to their peers, proudly sharing traditional attire, cuisine, and national celebrations. These moments of cultural exchange were among the most cherished, serving as a bridge that connected diverse backgrounds and fostered a sense of global belonging. From Seville to self-discovery Beyond academic growth and cultural appreciation, the ERASMUS+ Programme had a profound impact on the students' personal development. Living and studying in a foreign country required them to adapt quickly, communicate effectively, and manage their time independently. These experiences strengthened their resilience, problem-solving abilities, and emotional intelligence, qualities essential not only for postgraduate success but also for leadership in professional settings. They returned home with sharpened research skills, better clarity in academic direction, and a broader network of contacts that may benefit their future collaborations and scholarly pursuits. The exchange also planted seeds of ambition, with some students expressing interest in pursuing further academic opportunities or research fellowships abroad. This journey empowered them to become more confident, globally aware, and academically competent postgraduate students. It also inspired them to become ambassadors for internationalisation within their home institution, encouraging peers to seek similar opportunities. An unforgettable journey The success of this ERASMUS+ journey would not have been possible without the collaborative efforts of UPM and the University of Seville, as well as the dedicated supervisors who supported the students throughout the experience. Their mentorship, guidance and encouragement were instrumental in ensuring the programme's impact extended beyond academics. As the students concluded their three-month journey, they expressed deep gratitude for the life-changing opportunity. What they brought back with them was not just academic knowledge, but a wealth of cross-cultural experiences, international friendships, and a renewed vision for their academic and personal futures. Their reflections clearly demonstrate that ERASMUS+ is more than just a mobility programme; it is a transformative platform that shapes individuals into global citizens-capable of contributing meaningfully to society, bridging cultural divides, and inspiring others to dream beyond borders. As Malaysia continues to strengthen its ties with international partners, stories such as these serve as powerful reminders of the value of academic mobility and global education. While the students' journey abroad may have concluded, their role as changemakers is only just beginning. -- BERNAMA Assoc Prof Dr Nor Aniza Ahmad is the Deputy Dean (Postgraduate Studies and International Affairs), Faculty of Educational Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia. Ahmad Azrul Afeze Ahmad Rosdi is a doctoral student in Educational Psychology at the Faculty of Educational Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia, and is currently on the ERASMUS+ Programme at the University of Seville, Spain.
Hindustan Times
29-06-2025
- Science
- Hindustan Times
World's largest bead collection found in 5,000-year-old Spanish tomb in Montelirio Tholo
A remarkable archaeological discovery in the Montelirio Tholos, a 5,000-year-old megalithic tomb in Valencina de la Concepcion, Seville, has unveiled what researchers describe as the world's largest collection of ancient beads, totaling over 270,000, according to Science Journal. The study notes that the beads are from the Chalcolithic period (3200–2500 BCE). World's l;argest collection of beads was found in a Spanish tomb(Unsplash) The Montelirio Tholos, a 39-meter-wide subterranean tomb constructed around 3000 BCE, was excavated between 2007 and 2010 by a team led by Leonardo García Sanjuan from the University of Seville. Read More: 11 workers killed after gold mine collapse in Sudan The tomb, part of the Valencina-Castilleja necropolis, contained the remains of at least 25 individuals, likely high-status members of a Copper Age community, alongside an unprecedented array of grave goods, the Science Journal website states. It further adds that 270,000 beads, primarily made from shell, amber, calcite, and greenstone, some strung together, were discovered. These beads range from 1 to 10 millimeters in diameter. 'A small group of 90 beads was found in the upper level of the second chamber (Structure 10.049), in connection with a rock crystal blade dagger, of whose ivory handle the beads are believed to have been a decoration,' the blog reads. Read More: 'Double-edged sword': Kremlin's 'painful recoil' warning on EU's fresh sanctions on Russia The study said that among the remains found in the Montelirio tomb, 15 of the 20 identified individuals were women. The Montelirio Tholos, dated to 2875–2700 BCE via radiocarbon analysis, aligns with the Copper Age's transition to complex societies, Science Journal states. 'A multi-analytical study undertaken over the past 5 years—including a meticulous quantification of the collection, the characterization of the raw materials, radiocarbon dating and chronometric statistical modeling, morphometric analysis, phytolith analysis, experimental work and contextual analysis—reveals several previously unidentified aspects of these remarkable creations. This includes the role of the attires as sumptuary attributes heavily loaded of symbolism, used by a selected group of women of high social significance.'
The Independent
17-04-2025
- General
- The Independent
AP PHOTOS: Rain or shine, emotions run high at Seville's Holy Week processions in Spain
With tears of emotion often flowing down their faces, tens of thousands of faithful have packed the rooftops, bridges and narrow streets of this historic city in southern Spain to watch much-venerated images of Jesus and the Virgin Mary carried in hourslong processions throughout Holy Week. 'To see her in the street, I can't explain it,' said Modesta Montaña as she cried with her daughter when the statue of Our Lady of Sorrows was carried past them by the Hermandad del Cerro, one of Seville 's dozens of brotherhoods. 'It's the happiness that we have her here outdoors, that this quantity of people are turning out.' But this year, among the hundreds of brotherhood members charged with shouldering the massive floats and the crowd lined up to watch them, some also cried when more of the powerful storms that have wreaked havoc in the long drought-stricken country nixed their outing at the last minute. 'Another year without being able to see my brotherhood in the streets because of the rain. It's so sad,' said José Rodríguez, who had gone to watch the Hermandad de los Estudiantes procession on Tuesday, weeping while covering his face with his hands. Starting on Palm Sunday, a week before Easter, hundreds of 'costaleros' — solemnly robed and often hooded — carry huge floats with the sacred images in procession, in a tradition dating back centuries. Its fervor continues across Spain — and in many parts of Latin America — even as more people abandon organized religion. In Seville, elderly couples cheered from festively draped balconies, while one mom breastfed her infant daughter in the crowd as a float passed before them. ' Youth especially don't even think about faith. But popular devotion is a containment line,' said Jesús Resa, who leads the Hermandad de los Estudiantes — or students' brotherhood, since it was founded just over a century ago by faculty and students at the University of Seville. 'Many young people get close to religion because of it.' In weekly meetings throughout the year, the 6,000-member brotherhood prepares its seven-hour procession to be held on Tuesday of Holy Week. Some 150 people in rotation are to carry the two floats, accompanied by 300 children altar servers — to give it a sweet touch amid the 'very rigorous penitential seriousness,' Resa added. But this year, just like last year, rainstorms scrapped the procession at the last minute. The brotherhood couldn't risk damaging the 17th-century crucifix of 'Christ of the Good Death,' so they celebrated a Via Crucis instead, the prayer that commemorates Jesus' path to the cross. Starting in 2023, a persistent drought devastated Spain's countryside, only to be replaced by severe flooding, including not only spring outpours but a deluge near the city of Valencia last fall that killed more than 200 people. Some scientists say climate change can make such swings more extreme. Resa said that his brotherhood — like many religious groups across the country — had been praying for rain during the drought. This Holy Week, they switched to asking Jesus and the Virgin for world peace instead, he added with a chuckle. ___ This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo editors. ___ Dell'Orto reported from Minneapolis. ___ Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the AP's collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content.
Yahoo
06-03-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Scientists create mind-blowing phenomenon inside first-of-its-kind energy device: 'We were all very excited'
Nuclear fusion has high potential as an abundant and clean energy source, but the industry still faces challenges in fully stabilizing the process and making it profitable. Tokamaks — an apparatus or fusion reactor used to produce and contain the nuclear fusion process — provide a promising setup. However, they still experience edge instabilities (also known as edge localized modes or ELM) akin to solar flares that lead to significant energy losses and damage on the reactor wall. Scientists at the University of Seville, Spain, have been studying how ELMs interact with energetic particles to help minimize ELM damage. For the first time, their Small Aspect Ratio Tokamak (SMART) fusion reactor, created with researchers at the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, successfully created plasma (the soup-like medium required for fusion in the tokamak). The reactor used an innovative method called "negative triangularity," which has been shown to minimize ELM damage on the tokamak, as reported by Interesting Engineering. Most tokamaks are configured with "positive triangularity," where the cross-section of the plasma medium is shaped like the letter D — the straight side of the "D" facing the center, and the curved edge on the outside, the Interesting Engineering report explained. The steep pressure on the outside plasma edges is what has been contributing to ELM instability and potential reactor wall damage. With negative triangularity, the "D" shape is inverted to face the center, minimizing plasma edge instability while maintaining the high performance of the nuclear fusion process. So far, only the SMART reactor has achieved plasma production with negative triangularity, which is a massive breakthrough for the nuclear fusion industry. "We were all very excited to see the first magnetically confined plasma and are looking forward to exploiting the capabilities of the SMART device together with the international scientific community," said Eleonora Viezzer, physicist and professor at the University of Seville, per Interesting Engineering. The world is one step closer to a cleaner and highly abundant energy source. Compared to its counterpart, nuclear fission, nuclear fusion does not produce dangerous radioactive waste that requires special management. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, fusion produces helium as a byproduct, which is not harmful to the environment. In addition, nuclear fusion sources its fuel, deuterium and tritium, from hydrogen — one of the most plentiful elements on Earth, per the Department of Energy. Should the government be paying people to hunt invasive species? Definitely Depends on the animal No way Just let people do it for free Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Nuclear fusion is a promising source of efficient, clean energy, which could save homeowners and governments money on energy costs while transitioning to a clean energy source. Adopting clean energy sources reduces harmful gas pollution that contributes to a warming planet. Scientists are continuing to research how to make nuclear fusion a viable energy solution. A team of scientists from the United Kingdom's Joint European Torus facility produced 69 megajoules of energy with temperatures reaching 150 million degrees — 10 times hotter than the sun. One U.K. company is building a fusion reactor that can generate enough nuclear fusion energy to power 70,000 homes. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
