SciDev.Net

Nanotechnology should be used to develop Cuban pharmaceutical products to prevent them being pushed out of the market, warns an expert.

One of the main obstacles to scientific research in Central America is the lack of governmental vision, says Salvador Moncada.

As we mark Human Rights Day, Jessica Wyndham calls for all scientists to uphold the right to science.

Science and innovation continue to grow in developing countries, despite the current economic climate, says an editorial in Nature.

Relations between Cuba and the United States are hindering both countries' researchers, say Sergio Jorge Pastrana and Michael T. Clegg.

Debates around the potential benefits of GM crops for developing countries must be reasoned and evidence-based, says Albert Weale.

High-quality regional journals are essential for building the scientific strengths of the developing world, says Wieland Gevers.

Enquiry-based science education is essential for sustainable development, says Jorge E. Allende.

A Peruvian clinic's treatment of extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis is an example to the developing world, says Mario C. Raviglione.

One of the most serious problems faced by Guatemala is its increasing brain drain, says a leading scientist.

Cancer care in Africa faces the same challenges as general healthcare, but also needs local data and targeted solutions, says Twalib Ngoma.

To stem the spread of obesity, we must study the web of commercial interests and strategies driving it, says Jonathan Wells.

We need better global monitoring for chronic diseases before we can really tackle the risks factors and prevent illness, says Colin Mathers.

Developing nations must stop aping the North's mental health services and use strategies tailored to their own needs, says Vikram Patel.

Super crops won't be enough — the planet will run short of food by 2030 unless we invest to avoid an imminent world water crisis, says Colin Chartres.

Small farmers could beat increasing prices in food and fertiliser by producing more of their own crops at lower cost, argues William Dar.

Developing-world scientists should make every effort to pursue careers at home – and their governments should help them, says Mohamed Hassan.

African malaria research networks have helped scientists combat the disease, but they need more stable support and longer-term funding, says Thomas Egwang.

Renewed political commitment means China and India could set the pace for bilateral South–South collaboration, say Purnima Rupal and Dinesh Abrol.

Hypertensive disease kills large numbers in developing countries, but efforts to tackle it are lacking, say Stephen MacMahon and colleagues.