Publications
NIBIOs employees contribute to several hundred scientific articles and research reports every year. You can browse or search in our collection which contains references and links to these publications as well as other research and dissemination activities. The collection is continously updated with new and historical material.
2025
Forfattere
Alexander N. Hristov André Bannink Marco Battelli Alejandro Belanche M. Cecilia Cajarville Sanz Gonzalo Fernandez-Turren Florencia Garcia Arjan Jonker David A. Kenny Vibeke Lind Sarah J. Meale David Meo Zilio Camila Muñoz David Pacheco Nico Peiren Mohammad Ramin Luca Rapetti Angela Schwarm Sokratis Stergiadis Katerina Theodoridou Emilio M. Ungerfeld Sanne van Gastelen David R. Yáñez-Ruiz Sinead M. Waters Peter LundSammendrag
There is a need for rigorous and scientifically-based testing standards for existing and new enteric methane mitigation technologies, including antimethanogenic feed additives (AMFA). The current review provides guidelines for conducting and analyzing data from experiments with ruminants intended to test the antimethanogenic and production effects of feed additives. Recommendations include study design and statistical analysis of the data, dietary effects, associative effect of AMFA with other mitigation strategies, appropriate methods for measuring methane emissions, production and physiological responses to AMFA, and their effects on animal health and product quality. Animal experiments should be planned based on clear hypotheses, and experimental designs must be chosen to best answer the scientific questions asked, with pre-experimental power analysis and robust post-experimental statistical analyses being important requisites. Long-term studies for evaluating AMFA are currently lacking and are highly needed. Experimental conditions should be representative of the production system of interest, so results and conclusions are applicable and practical. Methane-mitigating effects of AMFA may be combined with other mitigation strategies to explore additivity and synergism, as well as trade-offs, including relevant manure emissions, and these need to be studied in appropriately designed experiments. Methane emissions can be successfully measured, and efficacy of AMFA determined, using respiration chambers, the sulfur hexafluoride method, and the GreenFeed system. Other techniques, such as hood and face masks, can also be used in short-term studies, ensuring they do not significantly affect feed intake, feeding behavior, and animal production. For the success of an AMFA, it is critically important that representative animal production data are collected, analyzed, and reported. In addition, evaluating the effects of AMFA on nutrient digestibility, animal physiology, animal health and reproduction, product quality, and how AMFA interact with nutrient composition of the diet is necessary and should be conducted at various stages of the evaluation process. The authors emphasize that enteric methane mitigation claims should not be made until the efficacy of AMFA is confirmed in animal studies designed and conducted considering the guidelines provided herein.
Sammendrag
Urban green structures (UGS) play important roles in enhancing urban ecosystems by providing benefits such as mitigating the urban heat island effect, improving air quality, supporting biodiversity, and aiding in stormwater management. Accurately mapping UGS is important for sustainable urban planning and management. Traditional methods of mapping such as manual mapping, aerial photography interpretation and pixel-based classification have limitations in terms of coverage, accuracy, and efficiency. Object-based image analysis (OBIA) has gained prominence due to its ability to incorporate both spectral and spatial information making it particularly effective for classification of high-resolution satellite data. This paper reviews the application of OBIA on satellite images for UGS mapping, focusing on various data sources, popular segmentation methods, and classification techniques, highlighting their respective advantages and limitations. Key segmentation methodologies discussed include multi-resolution segmentation and watershed segmentation. For classification, the review covers machine learning techniques such as random forests, support vector machines, and convolutional neural networks, among others. Several case studies highlight the successful implementation of OBIA in diverse urban environments by demonstrating improvements in classification accuracy and detail. The review also addresses the challenges associated with OBIA, such as dealing with heterogenous urban landscapes, data sources and with OBIA methods itself. Future directions for UGS mapping include the integration of deep learning algorithms, advancements in satellite data technologies, and the development of standardized classification frameworks. By providing a detailed analysis of the current state-of-the-art in object-based UGS mapping, this review aims to guide future research and practical applications in UGS management.
Forfattere
Mostafa Hoseini Helle Ross Gobakken Stephan Hoffmann Csongor Horvath Johannes Rahlf Jan Bjerketvedt Stefano Puliti Rasmus AstrupSammendrag
RoadSens is a platform designed to expedite the digitalization process of forest roads, a cornerstone of efficient forest operations and management. We incorporate stereo-vision spatial mapping and deep-learning image segmentation to extract, measure, and analyze various geometric features of the roads. The features are precisely georeferenced by fusing post-processing results of an integrated global navigation satellite system (GNSS) module and odometric localization data obtained from the stereo camera. The first version of RoadSens, RSv1, provides measurements of longitudinal slope, horizontal/vertical radius of curvature and various cross-sectional parameters, e.g., visible road width, centerline/midpoint positions, left and right sidefall slopes, and the depth and distance of visible ditches from the road’s edges. The potential of RSv1 is demonstrated and validated through its application to two road segments in southern Norway. The results highlight a promising performance. The trained image segmentation model detects the road surface with the precision and recall values of 96.8 and 81.9 , respectively. The measurements of visible road width indicate sub-decimeter level inter-consistency and 0.38 m median accuracy. The cross-section profiles over the road surface show 0.87 correlation and 9.8 cm root mean squared error (RMSE) against ground truth. The RSv1’s georeferenced road midpoints exhibit an overall accuracy of 21.6 cm in horizontal direction. The GNSS height measurements, which are used to derive longitudinal slope and vertical curvature exhibit an average error of 5.7 cm compared to ground truth. The study also identifies and discusses the limitations and issues of RSv1, which provide useful insights into the challenges in future versions.
Forfattere
Rasmus Bang Stine Samsonstuen Bjørn Gunnar Hansen Mario Guajardo Hanne Møller Jon Kristian Sommerseth Julio C. Goez Ola FlatenSammendrag
CONTEXT Researchers have identified numerous strategies to improve economic performance and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emission intensity in combined milk and beef production on dairy farms. However, there remains a need to better understand how the effectiveness of these strategies varies under different operational conditions. OBJECTIVE This study aims to examine how the economic and GHG emission intensity mitigation effectiveness of increased milk yield, extended longevity of dairy cows, reduced age at first calving, and intensified beef production from bulls depend on operational conditions in dual purpose cattle systems. METHOD We present a quantitative framework to (1) economically optimize production at farm level under various constraints and (2) calculate corresponding GHG emissions. The framework is tailored for Norwegian dual-purpose cattle systems and used to assess the economic and GHG emission intensity mitigation effects of incremental adjustments in relevant decisions. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS The results show that increased milk yield, extended productive life of dairy cows, reduced age at first calving, and lower slaughter age of bulls can lead to economic and climatic win-wins in terms of higher gross margins and reduced emissions per kg of protein produced. However, they may also result in lose-win and win-lose outcomes depending on the operational conditions. All four measures free up roughage production capacity, which, if used to maintain/increase milk and/or beef production, typically results in economic gains. However, if e.g., the available milk quota or space prevent this, economic losses may occur. The climate impact also depends on how the freed-up capacity is used: if it boosts production, the effects vary based on the scale and type of increase and the farm's initial setup, while unused capacity leads to reduced emission intensity. Conflicts typically arise when: 1) the extra capacity increases less climate-friendly production, raising emission intensity despite economic gains, or 2) extra capacity cannot be used, causing economic losses despite climate benefits. Our results also show that what can be labeled a win in climate terms, and to what extent, depends on the selected target metric(s). SIGNIFICANCE Governments and societies strive to balance food production with environmental goals. In this context, it is essential to identify farm-level economic and climatic win-win and lose-win scenarios, not only for farmers but also for policymakers and the broader society. This study could inform decision-making and policy development, potentially enhancing economic and climatic performance in combined milk and meat production.
Sammendrag
Optimised contributions of green infrastructure (GI) to urban ecosystem services are strongly related to its multifunctionality. The challenge, however, is that the concept of multifunctionality still needs to be transformed into an operationalised assessment to evaluate current performance, which is instrumental in supporting spatial planning and policy strategies. Using the case of Stavanger City (Norway), the study conducted a spatial assessment of the multifunctionality of the urban green infrastructure. The study used a comprehensive set of 27 function indicators estimated for each of the 156 spatial units classified by their type, age, size, and biophysical characteristics. Correlation patterns among indicators and how the average and effective multifunctionality related to unit characteristics were analysed using correlation and multivariate approaches. The study demonstrated weak correlations between function indicators but revealed some potential trade-offs and function bundles. Notably, bundles related to tree cover (e.g. C sequestration, stormwater retention) had negative relationships with facilitation measures. There was a large overlap in functions between GI types associated with public green spaces and parks. Moreover, the characteristics of green infrastructure units, like size and age, primarily affected multifunctionality through effects on function indicators. Regarding the city-wide multifunctionality, we found some turnover and subsetting of functions among units, supporting multifunctionality at larger spatial scales. However, the average contributions from different GI types were similar. The study highlights the need to understand correlation patterns among function indicators and function bundles as critical to benefit from synergies and avoid unintentional trade-offs when designing and managing urban green areas.
Sammendrag
No abstract has been registered
Forfattere
Jian Liu Faruk Djodjic Barbro Ulén Helena Aronsson Marianne Bechmann Lars Bergström Tore Krogstad Katarina KyllmarSammendrag
No abstract has been registered
2024
Forfattere
Islam, Md ShaidSammendrag
Begonias, known for their ornamental value in shade gardens, are highly susceptible to viral infections, which not only deform the plants themselves but also pose a risk of spreading to adjacent cropping plants. This susceptibility underscores the importance of understanding the viral pathogens affecting begonias, especially considering their role as hosts for aphids that can transmit these viruses to economically significant crops. In this study, an initial examination was conducted on 10 begonia specimens from university and NIBIO greenhouse, which exhibited symptoms indicative of viral infection. Through a molecular screening process involving RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, and RT-PCR using virus-specific primers, a mixed infection involving Kalanchoe mosaic virus (KMV), an unidentified polerovirus, and Broad bean wilt virus (BBWV) was confirmed. To further understand the etiology and transmission patterns of these viruses, as well as their individual effects on host plants, it was essential to isolate and subsequently reinfect begonia and other test plants with each virus separately. Different inoculation methods, such as sap inoculation, grafting, and aphid transmission, were employed to evaluate their effectiveness in virus transmission. Our results demonstrated successful single virus infections of KMV and BBWV through sap and grafting inoculations. However, attempts at polerovirus transmission with all the methods were unsuccessful. Moreover, aphid transmission using the green peach aphid proved unsuccessful to transfer any virus. Interestingly, the study unexpectedly found that the greenhouse potato aphid could carry the KMV virus to previously uninfected begonias, revealing a new vector that might transmit these viruses. The study discovered that using sap inoculation, especially through the roots, is an effective way to introduce viruses into begonias. This method successfully bypasses the issues caused by the plant's thick, acidic leaf sap. Additionally, a new buffer solution was created, greatly improving the success of sap inoculation for BBWV in both begonia isolates and other samples. This research provides critical insights into the transmission dynamics and management of viral infections in begonias, contributing to the broader understanding of plant-virus interactions and the development of effective control measures.
Forfattere
Tatiana Francischinelli Rittl Reidun Pommeresche Anders Johansen Håvard Steinshamn Hugh Riley Anne-Kristin LøesSammendrag
Anaerobic digestion (AD) of animal manure generates renewable energy in the form of biogas. However, there is a gap in our understanding of the long-term impacts of AD-treated manure on soil attributes and crop productivity in comparison to untreated manure. To address this, a longterm field experiment was initiated in 2011 within a perennial grass-clover ley. The objective was to investigate the effects on key soil and crop parameters when slurry from organically managed dairy cows underwent AD. The results (2011-2021) indicated that while the application rate of manures influenced soil nutrient levels and pH, these parameters were unaffected by AD treatment. Higher slurry application rate (220 kg of total N ha-1year-1) led to a surplus of N, while deficits were observed in the untreated (non digested) control and the treatments with low application rates (110 kg of total N ha-1year1). Treatments were not limited by P. For K, there were deficitsin all treatments. Soil organic matter (SOM) concentrations decreased across all plots, especially in those with inherently high SOM levels. This decline in SOM was similar with both untreated (non-digested) slurry and anaerobically digested slurry, and there was no significant effect of application rate. The decline may be attributed to the initial high SOM content, prolonged drainage, and increasing temperatures due to climate change. Notably, both US and ADS demonstrated similar yields of grass-clover ley (2 cuts year-1) and green fodder, averaging 7.9 and 4.0 kg DM ha-1, respectively. Additionally, within the same production year the mean clover yields of the fertilized treatments did not differ from the control. In terms of crop yields and chemical soil characteristics, the long-term effects (over 10 years) of AD within an organic dairy cattle farming system were generally minor. The advantages of harvesting energy from slurry did not compromise the long-term productivity of grasslands or the soil chemical characteristics
Forfattere
Tatiana Francischinelli Rittl Lied, Geirmund Aker, Mari Ingvar Kvande Eva Brod Kari-Anne Kallerud LyngSammendrag
The access to marine residual resources is large in Norway, yet its use in agriculture remains limited. Circulizer project aims to improve the circularity between the blue and green sector, by increasing the knowledge of the use of marine residues (i.e. fish sludge and fish silage) for biogas production and its effects on the fertilizer quality (digestate) and environment. While the quality of digestate from food waste and animal manure has been extensively studied, the impact of incorporating increasing proportions of new marine residual resources remains to be investigated. To be able to substitute mineral fertilizer with digestate derived from marine residues, farmers require knowledge of its nutrient composition and availability. In contrast, biogas plant operators need assurance of a market for both biogas and digestate before investing in new facilities. Circulizer will run lab and field scale experiments where the biogas process performance and digestate quality will be assessed. Expected outcomes are: (i) Enhancing the green transition and circularity of Norwegian food production by recycling valuable nutrients from fish production for agricultural use; (ii) Ensuring environmental safety by addressing concerns related to heavy metals and organic pollutants; (iii) Increasing the utilization of marine residual resources for biogas production; (iv) Supporting the growth of the fish farming industry in Norway by improving waste treatment and recycling options for unavoidable residual resources, thereby facilitating increased fish production and nutrient recycling