Research

In a germ-free animal, nutritional processes can be studied without interference from the microorganisms commonly inhabiting the gut in a conventional environment. The extent to which that process is modified by microbial action can then be examined by introducing a known microflora.

Temperament and behavior is important both cow welfare and working environment for the stable staff. This study aims to improve the breeding evaluation for temperament in dairy cows by utilizing different types of data that are automatically recorded on-farm, via, for example, the milking machine.

The aim of this project is to develop a standardized germ-free and germ-associated rainbow trout larval model systems as a means to understand the interplay among novel nutraceuticals, defense system and gut microbiota with a focus to improve larval quality.

Deciduous trees and annual plants rely on the same ancestral genes, but evolution has assigned them different tasks. Now researchers from Sweden and China show that aspen trees use flowering-related genes to stop growth as winter approaches - yet in the opposite way compared to annual plants.

Conservation agriculture is a system where the aim is to disturb the soil as little as possible. It involves sowing directly into the residues from the previous crop without tillage. Now researchers are warning that the benefits that are sought may be jeopardized by the use of heavy machinery.

Are Swedish forest soils depleted in nutrients by forestry and increased tree growth? No, a new study reports that levels of important mineral nutrients have increased in the organic layer over the past 40 years. Reduced acid rain and uplift of nutrients from the mineral soil are suggested reasons.

An extensive archive of bore core samples was given a new lease of life as a resource for forest researchers. One of the researchers benefiting from the archive is Kelley Bassett. Using the bore cores, she produces new knowledge about forest growth and health.

Recent advances in biosensor technology offer new opportunities to monitor fish welfare in aquaculture. However, before new biosensors can be put to use, their suitability and potential applications must be carefully evaluated.

Facilitators of collaborative policy making on sustainability issues often face heated debates and conflicting truths. They are on the front lines when facts are contested and emotions run high. A study explores their experiences and presents strategies for navigating post-truth situations.