Buruli ulcer is a disease of skin and soft tissue with the potential to leave sufferers scarred and disabled. It is caused by an environmental pathogen, Mycobacterium ulcerans, that produces a destructive toxin. The exact mode of transmission is unclear. The main burden of disease falls on childre ... n living in sub-Saharan Africa, but healthy people of all ages, races, and socioeconomic classes are susceptible. more

Phillips and colleagues have shown that rifampicin combined with clarithromycin is non-inferior to RS8, and is safer. This much anticipated trial provides us with a high degree of confidence that an 8-week course of oral rifampicin and clarithromycin should now be the cornerstone of the treatment of ... Buruli ulcer everywhere. However, this finding does not mean that Buruli ulcer is cured at 8 weeks. more

Global Biodiversity Outlook (GBO) is the flagship publication of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). It is a periodic report that summarizes the latest data on the status and trends of biodiversity and draws conclusions relevant to the further implementation of the Convention. GBO-5 pro ... vides global summary of progress towards the Aichi Biodiversity Targets and is based on a range of indicators, research studies and assessments (in particular the IPBES Global Assessment on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services), as well as the national reports provided by countries on their implementation of the CBD. The national reports provide rich information about the steps taken in countries worldwide in support of biodiversity conservation, sustainable use, and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits. This body of Information provides a wealth of information on the successes and challenges in implementing the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011-2020 and in reaching the Aichi Biodiversity Targets. This Outlook draws on the lessons learned during the first two decades of this century to clarify the transitions needed if we are to realize the vision agreed by world governments for 2050, ‘Living in Harmony with Nature’. more