Matrilineal diversity and population history of Norwegians

Background While well known for its Viking past, Norway's population history and the influences that have shaped its genetic diversity are less well understood. This is particularly true with respect to its demography, migration patterns, and dialectal regions, despite there being curated historical records for the past several centuries. In this study, we undertook an analysis of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) diversity within the country to elaborate this history from a matrilineal genetic perspective. Methods We aggregated 1174 partial modern Norwegian mtDNA sequences from the published literature and subjected them to detailed statistical and phylogenetic analysis by dialectal regions and localities. We further contextualized the matrilineal ancestry of modern Norwegians with data from Mesolithic, Iron Age, and historic period populations. Results Modern Norwegian mtDNAs fell into eight West Eurasian (N, HV, JT, I, U, K, X, W), five East Eurasian (A, F, G, N11, Z), and one African (L2) haplogroups. Pairwise analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) estimates for all Norwegians indicated they were differentiated from each other at 1.68% (p < 0.001). Norwegians within the same dialectal region also showed genetic similarities to each other, although differences between subpopulations within dialectal regions were also observed. In addition, certain mtDNA lineages in modern Norwegians were also found among prehistoric and historic period populations, suggesting some level of genetic continuity over hundreds to many thousands of years. Conclusions This analysis of mtDNA diversity provides a detailed picture of the genetic variation within Norway in light of its topography, settlement history, and historical migrations over the past several centuries.publishedVersio

Experience from the use of BIM-Stations

ABSTRACT BIM has gone from being a design-tool to being an important part of the production process. BIM-stations make 3D-models available for everyone, including all the workers on-site. This paper 1) reports on experiences from the use of BIM-stations on site and 2) suggests certain improvements to increase the benefit of the BIM-stations. Following a case study approach, it examines the production phase of a building project in Norway. Initially, a survey among 50 workers on-site was carried out. Both carpenters, plumbers and electricians conducted the survey. This was followed by semi-structured indepth interviews with six key actors. Among the interviewees was the project manager, the BIM-coordinator on the project, and managers from the project owner&apos;s organization. The research revealed that workers experience saving time with BIM-stations. They report higher productivity due to having the necessary information available at all time. The highest productivity increase appeared for the MEP workers. This study was carried out over a relatively short period, with limited access to measurements of cost and savings from the use of BIM-stations. Nonetheless, the findings are still very positive and can guide future implementation of BIM-stations in the production phase