development POSTPONED: The Development of Libyan Armed Groups since 2014: Community Dynamics and Economic Interests By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: Wed, 04 Mar 2020 14:15:01 +0000 Invitation Only Research Event 18 March 2020 - 9:00am to 10:30am Chatham House | 10 St James's Square | London | SW1Y 4LE Event participants Abdul Rahman Alageli, Associate Fellow, MENA Programme, Chatham HouseEmaddedin Badi, Non-Resident Scholar, Middle East InstituteTim Eaton, Senior Research Fellow, MENA Programme Chatham HouseValerie Stocker, Independent Researcher Since the overthrow of the regime of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, Libya’s multitude of armed groups have followed a range of paths. While many of these have gradually demobilized, others have remained active, and others have expanded their influence. In the west and south of the country, armed groups have used their state affiliation to co-opt the state and professionals from the state security apparatus into their ranks.In the east, the Libyan Arab Armed Forces projects a nationalist narrative yet is ultimately subservient to its leader, Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar. Prevailing policy narratives presuppose that the interests of armed actors are distinct from those of the communities they claim to represent. Given the degree to which most armed groups are embedded in local society, however, successful engagement will need to address the fears, grievances and desires of the surrounding communities, even while the development of armed groups’ capacities dilutes their accountability to those communities.This roundtable will discuss the findings of a forthcoming Chatham House research paper, ‘The Development of Libyan Armed Groups Since 2014: Community Dynamics and Economic Interests’, which presents insights from over 200 interviews of armed actors and members of local communities and posits how international policymakers might seek to curtail the continued expansion of the conflict economy.PLEASE NOTE THIS EVENT IS POSTPONED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. Event attributes Chatham House Rule Department/project Middle East and North Africa Programme, Countering Conflict Economies in MENA, Libya’s Conflict Economy Georgia Cooke Project Manager, Middle East and North Africa Programme +44 (0)20 7957 5740 Email Full Article
development The Development of Libyan Armed Groups Since 2014: Community Dynamics and Economic Interests By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: Mon, 16 Mar 2020 17:25:16 +0000 17 March 2020 This paper explores armed group–community relations in Libya and the sources of revenue that have allowed armed groups to grow in power and influence. It draws out the implications for policy and identifies options for mitigating conflict dynamics. Read online Download PDF Tim Eaton Senior Research Fellow, Middle East and North Africa Programme @el_khawaga LinkedIn Abdul Rahman Alageli Associate Fellow, Middle East and North Africa Programme @abdulrahmanlyf Emadeddin Badi Policy Leader Fellow, School of Transnational Governance, European University Institute Mohamed Eljarh Co-founder and CEO, Libya Outlook Valerie Stocker Researcher Amru_24-2_13.jpg Fighters of the UN-backed Government of National Accord patrol in Ain Zara suburb in Tripoli, February 2020. Photo: Amru Salahuddien SummaryLibya’s multitude of armed groups have followed a range of paths since the emergence of a national governance split in 2014. Many have gradually demobilized, others have remained active, and others have expanded their influence. However, the evolution of the Libyan security sector in this period remains relatively understudied. Prior to 2011, Libya’s internal sovereignty – including the monopoly on force and sole agency in international relations – had been personally vested in the figure of Muammar Gaddafi. After his death, these elements of sovereignty reverted to local communities, which created armed organizations to fill that central gap. National military and intelligence institutions that were intended to protect the Libyan state have remained weak, with their coherence undermined further by the post-2014 governance crisis and ongoing conflict. As a result, the most effective armed groups have remained localized in nature; the exception is the Libyan Arab Armed Forces (LAAF), which has combined and amalgamated locally legitimate forces under a central command.In the west and south of the country, the result of these trends resembles a kind of inversion of security sector reform (SSR) and disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR): the armed groups have used their state affiliation to co-opt the state and professionals from the state security apparatus into their ranks; and have continued to arm, mobilize and integrate themselves into the state’s security apparatus without becoming subservient to it. In the eastern region, the LAAF projects a nationalist narrative yet is ultimately subservient to its leader, Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar. The LAAF has co-opted social organizations to dominate political and economic decision-making.The LAAF has established a monopoly over the control of heavy weapons and the flow of arms in eastern Libya, and has built alliances with armed groups in the east. Armed groups in the south have been persuaded to join the LAAF’s newly established command structure. The LAAF’s offensive on the capital, which started in April 2019, represents a serious challenge to armed groups aligned with the Tripoli-based Government of National Accord (GNA). The fallout from the war will be a challenge to the GNA or any future government, as groups taking part in the war will expect to be rewarded. SSR is thus crucial in the short term: if the GNA offers financial and technical expertise and resources, plus legal cover, to armed groups under its leadership, it will increase the incentive for armed groups to be receptive to its plans for reform.Prevailing policy narratives presuppose that the interests of armed actors are distinct from those of the communities they claim to represent. Given the degree to which most armed groups are embedded in local society, however, successful engagement will necessarily rely on addressing the fears, grievances and desires of the surrounding communities. Yet the development of armed groups’ capacities, along with their increasing access to autonomous means of generating revenue, has steadily diluted their accountability to local communities. This process is likely to be accelerated by the ongoing violence around Tripoli.Communities’ relationship to armed groups varies across different areas of the country, reflecting the social, political, economic and security environment:Despite their clear preference for a more formal, state-controlled security sector, Tripoli’s residents broadly accept the need for the presence of armed groups to provide security. The known engagement of the capital’s four main armed groups in criminal activity is a trade-off that many residents seem able to tolerate, providing that overt violence remains low. Nonetheless, there is a widespread view that the greed of Tripoli’s armed groups has played a role in stoking the current conflict.In the east, many residents appear to accept (or even welcome) the LAAF’s expansion beyond the security realm, provided that it undertakes these roles effectively. That said, such is the extent of LAAF control that opposition to the alliance comes at a high price.In the south, armed groups draw heavily on social legitimacy, acting as guardians of tribal zones of influence and defenders of their respective communities against outside threats, while also at times stoking local conflicts. Social protections continue to hold sway, meaning that accountability within communities is also limited.To varying extents since 2014, Libya’s armed groups have developed networks that enmesh political and business stakeholders in revenue-generation models:Armed groups in Tripoli have compensated for reduced financial receipts from state budgets by cultivating unofficial and illicit sources of income. They have also focused on infiltrating state institutions to ensure access to state budgets and contracts dispersed in the capital.In the east of the country, the LAAF has developed a long-term strategy to dominate the security, political and economic spheres through the establishment of a quasi-legal basis for receiving funds from Libya’s rival state authorities. It has supplemented this with extensive intervention in the private sector. External patronage supports military operations, but also helps to keep this financial system, based on unsecured debt, afloat.In the south, limited access to funds from the central state has spurred armed groups to become actively involved in the economy. This has translated into the taxation of movement and the imposition of protection fees, particularly on informal (and often illicit) activity.Without real commitment from international policymakers to enforcing the arms embargo and protecting the economy from being weaponized, Libya will be consigned to sustained conflict, further fragmentation and potential economic collapse. Given the likely absence of a political settlement in the short term, international policymakers should seek to curtail the continued expansion of the conflict economy by reducing armed groups’ engagement in economic life.In order to reduce illicit activities, international policymakers should develop their capacity to identify and target chokepoints along illicit supply chains, with a focus on restraining activities and actors in closest proximity to violence. Targeted sanctions against rent maximizers (both armed and unarmed) is likely to be the most effective strategy. More effective investigation and restraint of conflict economy actors will require systemic efforts to improve transparency and enhance the institutional capacity of anti-corruption authorities. International policymakers should also support the development of tailored alternative livelihoods that render conflict economy activities less attractive. Department/project Middle East and North Africa Programme, Chaos States, Countering Conflict Economies in MENA, Libya’s Conflict Economy Full Article
development Webinar: Can the Justice and Development Party Still Absorb Popular Anger in Morocco? By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: Tue, 31 Mar 2020 13:50:01 +0000 Webinar Research Event 8 April 2020 - 1:00pm to 2:00pm Event participants Mohammed Masbah, Director, Moroccan Institute for Policy Analysis; Associate Fellow, MENA Programme, Chatham HouseModerator: Lina Khatib, Director, MENA Programme, Chatham House Ever since independence, the Moroccan monarchy has used political parties to legitimize the country’s authoritarian political process and structure, and to absorb social and political anger. The palace puts successive governments and other elected institutions, such as local and regional councils, at the frontline of public blame, and replaces them once they fail this function.In a recent article, MENA Programme Associate Fellow, Mohammed Masbah, examines how the Moroccan monarchy has used this strategy with the ruling Justice and Development Party (PJD) so that the palace remains the centre of political power, while the PJD – and other political parties before it– takes responsibility for coping with the mounting socio-economic crisis.In this webinar, part of the Chatham House project on The Future of the State in the Middle East and North Africa, the article’s author will discuss the risks this approach presents for the long-term stability of Morocco and what reforms are needed to increase citizens’ dwindling confidence in the political process.You can express your interest in attending by following this link. You will receive a Zoom confirmation email should your registration be successful. Department/project Middle East and North Africa Programme, The Future of the State in the Middle East Full Article
development Development and evaluation of interleukin-2 derived radiotracers for PET imaging of T-cells in mice By jnm.snmjournals.org Published On :: 2020-02-28T13:52:17-08:00 Recently, N-(4-18F-fluorobenzoyl)-interleukin-2 (18F-FB-IL2) was introduced as PET tracer for T-cell imaging. However, production is complex and time-consuming. Therefore, we developed two radiolabeled interleukin-2 (IL-2) variants, namely aluminum 18F-fluoride-(restrained complexing agent)-IL-2 (18F-AlF-RESCA-IL2) and 68Ga-gallium-(1,4,7-triazacyclononane-4,7-diacetic acid-1-glutaric acid)-IL-2 (68Ga-Ga-NODAGA-IL2) and compared their in-vitro and in-vivo characteristics with 18F-FB-IL2. Methods: Radiolabeling of 18F-AlF-RESCA-IL2 and 68Ga-Ga-NODAGA-IL2 was optimized and stability was evaluated in human serum. Receptor binding was studied with activated human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (hPBMCs). Ex-vivo tracer biodistribution in immunocompetent BALB/cOlaHsd (BALB/c) mice was performed at 15, 60 and 90 min after tracer injection. In-vivo binding characteristics were studied in severe combined immune-deficient (SCID) mice inoculated with activated hPBMCs in Matrigel. Tracer was injected 15 min after hPBMCs inoculation and a 60-min dynamic PET scan was acquired, followed by ex-vivo biodistribution studies. Specific uptake was determined by co-injection of tracer with unlabeled IL2 and by evaluating uptake in a control group inoculated with Matrigel only. Results: 68Ga-Ga-NODAGA-IL2 and 18F-AlF-RESCA-IL2 were produced with radiochemical purity >95% and radiochemical yield of 13.1±4.7% and 2.4±1.6% within 60 and 90 min, respectively. Both tracers were stable in serum, with >90% being intact tracer after 1h. In-vitro, both tracers displayed preferential binding to activated hPBMCs. Ex-vivo biodistribution studies in BALB/c mice showed higher uptake of 18F-AlF-RESCA-IL2 than 18F-FB-IL2 in liver, kidney, spleen, bone and bone marrow. 68Ga-Ga-NODAGA-IL2 uptake in liver and kidney was higher than 18F-FB-IL2 uptake. In-vivo, all tracers revealed uptake in activated hPBMCs in SCID mice. Low uptake was seen after a blocking dose of IL2 or in the Matrigel control group. In addition, 18F-AlF-RESCA-IL2 yielded highest contrast PET images of target lymph nodes. Conclusion: Production of 18F-AlF-RESCA-IL2 and 68Ga-Ga-NODAGA-IL2 is simpler and faster than 18F-FB-IL2. Both tracers showed good in-vitro and in-vivo characteristics with high uptake in lymphoid tissue and hPBMC xenografts. Full Article
development Design and development of 99mTc labeled FAPI-tracers for SPECT-imaging and 188Re therapy. By jnm.snmjournals.org Published On :: 2020-03-13T14:12:30-07:00 The majority of epithelial tumors recruits fibroblasts and other non-malignant cells and activates them into cancer-associated fibroblasts. This often leads to overexpression of the membrane serine protease fibroblast-activating protein (FAP). It has already been shown that DOTA-bearing FAP inhibitors (FAPIs) generate high contrast images with PET/CT scans. Since SPECT is a lower cost and more widely available alternative to PET, 99mTc-labeled FAPIs represent attractive tracers for imaging applicable in a larger number of patients. Furthermore, the chemically homologous nuclide 188Re is available from generators, which allows FAP-targeted endoradiotherapy. Methods: For the preparation of 99mTc tricarbonyl complexes, a chelator was selected whose carboxylic acids can easily be converted into various derivatives in the finished product. This enabled a platform strategy based on the original tracer. The obtained 99mTc complexes were investigated in vitro by binding and competition experiments on FAP-transfected HT-1080 (HT-1080-FAP) and/or on mouse FAP expressing (HEK-muFAP) and CD26-expressing (HEKCD26) HEK cells and characterized by planar scintigraphy and organ distribution studies in tumor-bearing mice. Furthermore, a first-in-man application was done in two patients with ovarian and pancreatic cancer, respectively. Results: 99mTc-FAPI-19 showed specific binding to recombinant FAP-expressing cells with high affinity. Unfortunately, liver accumulation, biliary excretion and no tumor uptake were observed in the planar scintigraphy of a HT-1080-FAP xenotranplanted mouse. To improve the pharmacokinetic properties hydrophilic amino acids were attached to the chelator moiety of the compound. The resulting 99mTc-labeled FAPI tracers revealed excellent binding properties (up to 45 % binding; above 95 % internalization), high affinity (IC50 = 6.4 nM to 12.7 nM), and significant tumor uptake (up to 5.4 %ID/g) in biodistribution studies. The lead candidate 99mTc-FAPI-34 was applied for diagnostic scintigraphy and SPECT of patients with metastasized ovarian and pancreatic cancer for follow-up to therapy with 90Y-FAPI-46. 99mTc-FAPI-34 accumulated in the tumor lesions also shown in PET/CT imaging using 68Ga-FAPI-46. Conclusion: 99mTc-FAPI-34 represents a powerful tracer for diagnostic scintigraphy, especially in cases where PET imaging is not available. Additionally, the chelator used in this compound allows labeling with the therapeutic nuclide 188Re which is planned for the near future. Full Article
development POSTPONED: Connecting Infrastructure Development and Inclusive Economic Growth in Côte d'Ivoire By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: Tue, 19 Nov 2019 12:30:01 +0000 Research Event 13 March 2020 - 4:00pm to 5:00pm Chatham House | 10 St James's Square | London | SW1Y 4LE Event participants Hon Bruno Nabagné Kone, Minister of Construction, Housing and Urban Planning, Republic of Côte d'Ivoire Strong economic growth in Côte d'Ivoire – with annual GDP growth averaging eight per cent since 2012 – is interlinked with an increase in spending on national infrastructure. In 2018, the government announced a $7 billion injection for the sector over five years, for projects including a new 7.5km bridge spanning two districts of Abidjan and a highway extending to Burkina Faso. A public-private partnership to build a new $1.5 billion metropolitan railway system in the capital received formal approval in October 2019.But the government of Côte d'Ivoire has struggled to make the country’s impressive growth inclusive: Côte d’Ivoire ranked 165th out of 189 on the 2019 United Nations Human Development Index, and the poverty rate is around 46%. Translating significant infrastructural investment into benefit for ordinary and vulnerable Ivorian citizens, including through how project development is managed with communities, will be a critical issue in the lead up to elections scheduled for October 2020 and beyond.PLEASE NOTE THIS EVENT IS POSTPONED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. Department/project Africa Programme, West Africa, Inclusive Economic Growth, Governance and Technology Sahar Eljack Programme Administrator, Africa Programme + 44 (0) 20 7314 3660 Email Full Article
development The Central African Republic: Security, Development and Responding to the Humanitarian Situation By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: Fri, 24 Jan 2020 11:00:02 +0000 Invitation Only Research Event 3 February 2020 - 2:00pm to 3:00pm Chatham House | 10 St James's Square | London | SW1Y 4LE Event participants Denise Brown, United Nations Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in the Central African RepublicChair: Ben Shepherd, Consulting Fellow, Africa Programme, Chatham House With two-thirds of the country’s population estimated to be in need of humanitarian aid and one-quarter either internally displaced or living as refugees in neighbouring countries, the Central African Republic (CAR) continues to face serious and complex humanitarian challenges. The country’s forthcoming presidential elections scheduled for December 2020 risk inflaming CAR’s volatile security situation particularly with the return of former leader, François Bozizé, ousted by the Séléka rebel coalition leader, Michel Djotodia, who has also returned from exile.At this event, Denise Brown will discuss CAR’s current security, humanitarian and development situations and the role of actors such as the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA). She will also discuss prospects for much-needed governance reform and reconciliation.Attendance at this event is by invitation only. Event attributes Chatham House Rule Department/project Africa Programme, Elections and political systems, Central and East Africa Hanna Desta Programme Assistant, Africa Programme Email Full Article
development Financing for Sustainable Development in Africa By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: Wed, 19 Feb 2020 14:35:01 +0000 Research Event 27 February 2020 - 6:30pm to 7:30pm Chatham House | 10 St James's Square | London | SW1Y 4LE Event participants HE Nana Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic of GhanaChair: Dr Alex Vines OBE, Managing Director, Ethics, Risk & Resilience; Director, Africa Programme, Chatham House Please note, the second video on this page is from an interview carried out alongside the main event.HE Nana Akufo-Addo, the president of Ghana, discusses his government’s approach to sustainable development, and how different stakeholders can be involved in achieving long-term goals in Ghana and beyond.The government of Ghana has actively embedded sustainable development into its global and domestic policies. Ghana is signatory to international agreements including the 2030 UN Agenda for Sustainable Development, the African Union’s Agenda 2063, and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change; as well as including these goals into its domestic 2017-2024 economic and social development programme.Private sector engagement has been central to Ghana’s approach to sustainable development. The government is also collaborating through the Private Enterprise Foundation on the implementation of the SDGs and is working with an Advisory Group of chief executives to establish a $100 million fund for the delivery of the SDGs and a further $200 million ‘Green Fund’ to help tackle climate change. Event attributes Livestream Department/project Africa Programme, West Africa, Inclusive Economic Growth, Governance and Technology Sahar Eljack Programme Administrator, Africa Programme + 44 (0) 20 7314 3660 Email Full Article
development Webinar: Implications of the COVID-19 Pandemic for African Economies and Development By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: Wed, 15 Apr 2020 10:10:01 +0000 Research Event 21 April 2020 - 4:30pm to 5:30pm Event participants Dr Hafez Ghanem, Vice President for Africa, World BankChair: Elizabeth Donnelly, Deputy Director, Africa Programme, Chatham House Dr Hafez Ghanem discusses the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic for African economies and their development and poverty reduction efforts, and assesses the priorities and obstacles for establishing a comprehensive response to the crisis. While the acute strain placed on health systems by the COVID-19 pandemic is already in evidence, the long-term economic fallout from the crisis is yet to fully manifest. For Africa it is the economic impact that may leave the most enduring legacy: from the direct expense of measures to treat, detect and reduce the spread of the virus; to the indirect costs of domestic lockdown measures, global supply chain disruptions and plummeting commodity prices. As decision-makers globally start to plan for the scale of this economic shock, strategizing in and on Africa to meet the challenge will require unprecedented planning and commitment - and will need to be matched by support from international partners to enable long-term recovery. Department/project Africa Programme, Inclusive Economic Growth, Governance and Technology Hanna Desta Programme Assistant, Africa Programme Email Full Article
development How images frame China's role in African development By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: Thu, 07 May 2020 09:21:23 +0000 7 May 2020 , Volume 96, Number 3 George Karavas Read online Political leaders, policy-makers and academics routinely refer to development as an objective process of social change through the use of technical, value-free terms. Images of poverty and inequality are regularly presented as evidence of a world that exists ‘out there’ where development unfolds. This way of seeing reflects the value of scientific forms of knowledge but also sits in tension with the normative foundations of development that take European modernization and industrialization as the benchmark for comparison. The role images play in this process is often overlooked. This article argues that a dominant mode of visuality based on a Cartesian separation between subject and object, underpinning the ascendance of European hegemony and colonialism, aligns with the core premises of orthodox development discourse. An example of how visual representations of development matter is presented through images of Africa–China relations in western media sources. Using widely circulated images depicting China's impact on African development in western news media sources as an example of why visual politics matters for policy-making, the article examines how images play a role in legitimizing development planning by rendering associated forms of epistemological and structural violence ‘invisible to the viewer’. Full Article
development Development Prospects in the Asia-Pacific: The Role of the Asian Development Bank By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: Wed, 04 Sep 2019 12:55:01 +0000 Research Event 25 September 2019 - 12:30pm to 1:30pm Chatham House | 10 St James's Square | London | SW1Y 4LE Event participants Takehiko Nakao, President, Asian Development BankChair: Champa Patel, Head, Asia-Pacific Programme, Chatham House The speaker will discuss development prospects in the Asia-Pacific and their implications for Europe and the UK. He will outline prospects for the region’s growth, the impact of the current US-China trade conflict as well as other challenges faced by the region. He will also discuss the future role of the Asian Development Bank and how it plans to support the further development of the region. Department/project Asia-Pacific Programme, Sustainable and Inclusive Growth, Trade, Investment and Economics Lucy Ridout Programme Administrator, Asia-Pacific Programme +44 (0) 207 314 2761 Email Full Article
development How images frame China's role in African development By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: Thu, 07 May 2020 09:21:23 +0000 7 May 2020 , Volume 96, Number 3 George Karavas Read online Political leaders, policy-makers and academics routinely refer to development as an objective process of social change through the use of technical, value-free terms. Images of poverty and inequality are regularly presented as evidence of a world that exists ‘out there’ where development unfolds. This way of seeing reflects the value of scientific forms of knowledge but also sits in tension with the normative foundations of development that take European modernization and industrialization as the benchmark for comparison. The role images play in this process is often overlooked. This article argues that a dominant mode of visuality based on a Cartesian separation between subject and object, underpinning the ascendance of European hegemony and colonialism, aligns with the core premises of orthodox development discourse. An example of how visual representations of development matter is presented through images of Africa–China relations in western media sources. Using widely circulated images depicting China's impact on African development in western news media sources as an example of why visual politics matters for policy-making, the article examines how images play a role in legitimizing development planning by rendering associated forms of epistemological and structural violence ‘invisible to the viewer’. Full Article
development Development of a sensitive and quantitative method for the identification of two major furan fatty acids in human plasma By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: 2020-04-01 Long XuApr 1, 2020; 61:560-569Methods Full Article
development Developments and Applications of Functional Protein Microarrays [Review] By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: 2020-04-17T09:38:19-07:00 Protein microarrays are crucial tools in the study of proteins in an unbiased, high-throughput manner, as they allow for characterization of up to thousands of individually purified proteins in parallel. The adaptability of this technology has enabled its use in a wide variety of applications, including the study of proteome-wide molecular interactions, analysis of post-translational modifications, identification of novel drug targets, and examination of pathogen-host interactions. In addition, the technology has also been shown to be useful in profiling antibody specificity, as well as in the discovery of novel biomarkers, especially for autoimmune diseases and cancers. In this review, we will summarize the developments that have been made in protein microarray technology in both in basic and translational research over the past decade. We will also introduce a novel membrane protein array, the GPCR-VirD array, and discuss the future directions of functional protein microarrays. Full Article
development Perlecan knockdown significantly alters extracellular matrix composition and organization during cartilage development [Research] By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: 2020-05-07T06:36:04-07:00 Perlecan is a critical proteoglycan found in the extracellular matrix (ECM) of cartilage. In healthy cartilage, perlecan regulates cartilage biomechanics and we previously demonstrated perlecan deficiency leads to reduced cellular and ECM stiffness in vivo. This change in mechanics may lead to the early onset osteoarthritis seen in disorders resulting from perlecan knockdown such as Schwartz-Jampel syndrome (SJS). To identify how perlecan knockdown affects the material properties of developing cartilage, we used imaging and liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to study the ECM in a murine model of SJS, Hspg2C1532Y-Neo. Perlecan knockdown led to defective pericellular matrix formation, whereas the abundance of bulk ECM proteins, including many collagens, increased. Post-translational modifications and ultrastructure of collagens were not significantly different; however, LC-MS/MS analysis showed more protein was secreted by Hspg2C1532Y-Neo cartilage in vitro, suggesting that the incorporation of newly synthesized ECM was impaired. In addition, glycosaminoglycan deposition was atypical, which may explain the previously observed decrease in mechanics. Overall, these findings provide insight into the influence of perlecan on functional cartilage assembly and the progression of osteoarthritis in SJS. Full Article
development How images frame China's role in African development By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: Thu, 07 May 2020 09:21:23 +0000 7 May 2020 , Volume 96, Number 3 George Karavas Read online Political leaders, policy-makers and academics routinely refer to development as an objective process of social change through the use of technical, value-free terms. Images of poverty and inequality are regularly presented as evidence of a world that exists ‘out there’ where development unfolds. This way of seeing reflects the value of scientific forms of knowledge but also sits in tension with the normative foundations of development that take European modernization and industrialization as the benchmark for comparison. The role images play in this process is often overlooked. This article argues that a dominant mode of visuality based on a Cartesian separation between subject and object, underpinning the ascendance of European hegemony and colonialism, aligns with the core premises of orthodox development discourse. An example of how visual representations of development matter is presented through images of Africa–China relations in western media sources. Using widely circulated images depicting China's impact on African development in western news media sources as an example of why visual politics matters for policy-making, the article examines how images play a role in legitimizing development planning by rendering associated forms of epistemological and structural violence ‘invisible to the viewer’. Full Article
development Ever Closer Alliance? New Developments in Russia-China Relations By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: Wed, 20 Nov 2019 13:45:01 +0000 Invitation Only Research Event 11 December 2019 - 9:00am to 1:00pm Chatham House | 10 St James's Square | London | SW1Y 4LE Agendapdf | 125.8 KB Event participants Yang Cheng, Professor of International Relations, Assistant Dean, School of International Relations and Public Affairs, Shanghai International Studies UniversityYu Jie, Senior Research Fellow, Asia-Pacific Programme, Chatham HouseMarcin Kaczmarski, Lecturer in Security Studies, University of GlasgowNatasha Kuhrt, Lecturer, Department of War Studies, King’s College LondonBobo Lo, Non-Resident Fellow, Lowy InstituteAlexey Maslov, Professor, School of Asian Studies, National Research University, Higher School of Economics, Moscow At face value, recent years have seen a deepening in Sino-Russian cooperation, from energy agreements, to the recent Huawei-MTS deal developing a 5G network in Russia. Ever larger-in-scale joint military exercises add to fears by some that the 'axis of convenience' is now a more genuine – and threatening – partnership.This workshop will offer a sober assessment of the latest developments in Sino-Russian relations, shedding light on the underpinnings and practical realities of the relationship as well as on the long-term challenges of upholding cooperation.The panel will discuss the different and potentially diverging interpretations of contemporary Sino-Russian relations as well as the implications for the rules-based international order.This event is co-organized by the Chatham House Russia and Eurasia Programme and the University of Exeter and is supported by the British International Studies Association.Attendance at this event is by invitation only. Department/project Asia-Pacific Programme, Russia and Eurasia Programme Anna Morgan Administrator, Ukraine Forum +44 (0)20 7389 3274 Email Full Article
development Development of a sensitive and quantitative method for the identification of two major furan fatty acids in human plasma [Methods] By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: 2020-04-01T00:05:29-07:00 This article focuses on the establishment of an accurate and sensitive quantitation method for the analysis of furan fatty acids. In particular, the sensitivity of GC/MS and UPLC/ESI/MS/MS was compared for the identification and quantification of furan fatty acids. Different methylation methods were tested with respect to GC/MS analysis. Special attention needs to be paid to the methylation of furan fatty acids, as acidic catalysts might lead to the degradation of the furan ring. GC/MS analysis in full-scan mode demonstrated that the limit of quantitation was 10 μM. UPLC/ESI/MS/MS in multiple reaction monitoring mode displayed a higher detection sensitivity than GC/MS. Moreover, the identification of furan fatty acids with charge-reversal derivatization was tested in the positive mode with two widely used pyridinium salts. Significant oxidation was unexpectedly observed using N-(4-aminomethylphenyl) pyridinium as a derivatization agent. The formed 3-acyl-oxymethyl-1-methylpyridinium iodide derivatized by 2-bromo-1-methylpyridinium iodide and 3-carbinol-1-methylpyridinium iodide improved the sensitivity more than 2,000-fold compared with nonderivatization in the negative mode by UPLC/ESI/MS/MS. This charge-reversal derivatization enabled the targeted quantitation of furan fatty acids in human plasma. Thus, it is anticipated that this protocol could greatly contribute to the clarification of pathological mechanisms related to furan fatty acids and their metabolites. Full Article
development Does general anesthesia affect neurodevelopment in infants and children? By feeds.bmj.com Published On :: Monday, December 9, 2019 - 12:46 Full Article
development Elevated First-Trimester Neutrophil Count Is Closely Associated with the Development of Maternal Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes By diabetes.diabetesjournals.org Published On :: 2020-04-24T14:58:49-07:00 Chronic low-grade inflammation plays a central role in the pathophysiology of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). In order to investigate the ability of different inflammatory blood cell parameters in predicting the development of GDM and pregnancy outcomes, 258 women with GDM and 1154 women without were included in this retrospective study. First-trimester neutrophil count outperformed white blood cell (WBC) count, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in the predictability for GDM. Subjects were grouped based on tertiles of neutrophil count during their first-trimester pregnancy. The results showed that as the neutrophil count increased, there was a step-wise increase in GDM incidence, as well as glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level, Homeostasis Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR), macrosomia incidence and newborn weight. Neutrophil count was positively associated with pre-pregnancy Body Mass Index (BMI), HOMA-IR and newborn weight. Additionally, neutrophil count was an independent risk factor for the development of GDM, regardless of the history of GDM. Spline regression showed that there was a significant linear association between GDM incidence and continuous neutrophil count when it exceeded 5.0 x 109/L. This work suggested that first-trimester neutrophil count is closely associated with the development of GDM and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Full Article
development Certain ortho-hydroxylated brominated ethers are promiscuous kinase inhibitors that impair neuronal signaling and neurodevelopmental processes [Cell Biology] By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: 2020-05-01T00:06:09-07:00 The developing nervous system is remarkably sensitive to environmental signals, including disruptive toxins, such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). PBDEs are an environmentally pervasive class of brominated flame retardants whose neurodevelopmental toxicity mechanisms remain largely unclear. Using dissociated cortical neurons from embryonic Rattus norvegicus, we found here that chronic exposure to 6-OH–BDE-47, one of the most prevalent hydroxylated PBDE metabolites, suppresses both spontaneous and evoked neuronal electrical activity. On the basis of our previous work on mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK) (MEK) biology and our observation that 6-OH–BDE-47 is structurally similar to kinase inhibitors, we hypothesized that certain hydroxylated PBDEs mediate neurotoxicity, at least in part, by impairing the MEK–ERK axis of MAPK signal transduction. We tested this hypothesis on three experimental platforms: 1) in silico, where modeling ligand–protein docking suggested that 6-OH–BDE-47 is a promiscuous ATP-competitive kinase inhibitor; 2) in vitro in dissociated neurons, where 6-OH–BDE-47 and another specific hydroxylated BDE metabolite similarly impaired phosphorylation of MEK/ERK1/2 and activity-induced transcription of a neuronal immediate early gene; and 3) in vivo in Drosophila melanogaster, where developmental exposures to 6-OH–BDE-47 and a MAPK inhibitor resulted in offspring displaying similarly increased frequency of mushroom-body β–lobe midline crossing, a metric of axonal guidance. Taken together, our results support that certain ortho-hydroxylated PBDE metabolites are promiscuous kinase inhibitors and can cause disruptions of critical neurodevelopmental processes, including neuronal electrical activity, pre-synaptic functions, MEK–ERK signaling, and axonal guidance. Full Article
development A kinesin adapter directly mediates dendritic mRNA localization during neural development in mice [Neurobiology] By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: 2020-05-08T03:41:14-07:00 Motor protein-based active transport is essential for mRNA localization and local translation in animal cells, yet how mRNA granules interact with motor proteins remains poorly understood. Using an unbiased yeast two–hybrid screen for interactions between murine RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and motor proteins, here we identified protein interaction with APP tail-1 (PAT1) as a potential direct adapter between zipcode-binding protein 1 (ZBP1, a β-actin RBP) and the kinesin-I motor complex. The amino acid sequence of mouse PAT1 is similar to that of the kinesin light chain (KLC), and we found that PAT1 binds to KLC directly. Studying PAT1 in mouse primary hippocampal neuronal cultures from both sexes and using structured illumination microscopic imaging of these neurons, we observed that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) enhances co-localization of dendritic ZBP1 and PAT1 within granules that also contain kinesin-I. PAT1 is essential for BDNF-stimulated neuronal growth cone development and dendritic protrusion formation, and we noted that ZBP1 and PAT1 co-locate along with β-actin mRNA in actively transported granules in living neurons. Acute disruption of the PAT1–ZBP1 interaction in neurons with PAT1 siRNA or a dominant-negative ZBP1 construct diminished localization of β-actin mRNA but not of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IIα (CaMKIIα) mRNA in dendrites. The aberrant β-actin mRNA localization resulted in abnormal dendritic protrusions and growth cone dynamics. These results suggest a critical role for PAT1 in BDNF-induced β-actin mRNA transport during postnatal development and reveal a new molecular mechanism for mRNA localization in vertebrates. Full Article
development Low-Grade Systemic Inflammation and the Development of Type 2 Diabetes: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study By diabetes.diabetesjournals.org Published On :: 2003-07-01 Bruce B. DuncanJul 1, 2003; 52:1799-1805Pathophysiology Full Article
development Role of phospholipid synthesis in the development and differentiation of malaria parasites in the blood [Microbiology] By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: 2018-11-09T03:40:54-08:00 The life cycle of malaria parasites in both their mammalian host and mosquito vector consists of multiple developmental stages that ensure proper replication and progeny survival. The transition between these stages is fueled by nutrients scavenged from the host and fed into specialized metabolic pathways of the parasite. One such pathway is used by Plasmodium falciparum, which causes the most severe form of human malaria, to synthesize its major phospholipids, phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, and phosphatidylserine. Much is known about the enzymes involved in the synthesis of these phospholipids, and recent advances in genetic engineering, single-cell RNA-Seq analyses, and drug screening have provided new perspectives on the importance of some of these enzymes in parasite development and sexual differentiation and have identified targets for the development of new antimalarial drugs. This Minireview focuses on two phospholipid biosynthesis enzymes of P. falciparum that catalyze phosphoethanolamine transmethylation (PfPMT) and phosphatidylserine decarboxylation (PfPSD) during the blood stages of the parasite. We also discuss our current understanding of the biochemical, structural, and biological functions of these enzymes and highlight efforts to use them as antimalarial drug targets. Full Article
development Melding the best of two worlds: Cecil Pickett's work on cellular oxidative stress and in drug discovery and development [Molecular Bases of Disease] By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: 2020-03-20T00:06:23-07:00 Many chemicals and cellular processes cause oxidative stress that can damage lipids, proteins, or DNA (1). To quickly sense and respond to this ubiquitous threat, organisms have evolved enzymes that neutralize harmful oxidants such as reactive oxygen species and electrophilic compounds (including xenobiotics and their breakdown products) in cells.These antioxidant enzymes include GSH S-transferase (GST),2 NADPH:quinone oxidoreductase 1, thioredoxin, hemeoxygenase-1, and others (2, 3). Many of these proteins are commonly expressed in cells exposed to oxidative stress.The antioxidant response element (ARE) is a major regulatory component of this cellular stress response. The ARE is a conserved, 11-nucleotide-long DNA motif present in the 5'-flanking regions of many genes encoding antioxidant proteins. The laboratory of Cecil Pickett (Fig. 1) at the Merck Frosst Centre for Therapeutic Research in Quebec discovered ARE, a finding reported in the early 1990s in two JBC papers recognized as Classics here (4, 5).jbc;295/12/3929/F1F1F1Figure 1.Cecil Pickett (pictured) and colleagues first described the ARE motif, present in the 5' regions of many genes whose expression is up-regulated by oxidative stress and xenobiotics. Photo courtesy of Cecil Pickett.ARE's discovery was spurred in large part by Pickett's career choice. After completing a PhD in biology and a 2-year postdoc at UCLA in the mid-1970s, he began to work in the pharmaceutical industry.Recruited to Merck in 1978 by its then head of research and development (and later CEO), Roy Vagelos, “I became interested in how drug-metabolizing enzymes were induced by various xenobiotics,” Pickett says.According to Pickett, Vagelos encouraged researchers at the company... Full Article
development Virtual Roundtable: Tectonic Plates of 2020 – Developments in the US Presidential Race By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: Mon, 16 Mar 2020 12:00:01 +0000 Invitation Only Research Event 18 March 2020 - 1:00pm to 1:45pm Event participants John Zogby, Founder and Senior Partner, John Zogby StrategiesChair: Dr Lindsay Newman, Senior Research Fellow, US and Americas Programme, Chatham House This event is part of the Inaugural Virtual Roundtable Series on the US, Americas and the State of the World and will take place virtually only. Participants should not come to Chatham House for these events. Department/project US and the Americas Programme, Chatham House US 2020 Election Series US and Americas Programme Email Full Article
development IOS app Development Company in Gurgaon By investing.96.lt Published On :: Tue, 16 May 2017 13:00:08 UTC Appslure is the best iOS apps development company in Delhi, Gurgaon, Noida, Mumbai, India. Our iOS app developers are expert in responsive iphone and iPad app development services. Full Article Computer and Technology
development Android app Development Company in Noida By investing.96.lt Published On :: Tue, 16 May 2017 13:02:04 UTC We are Award Winning Multinational Android app development Delhi based Company. Our Highly Expert team of Android Developers have 4+ Years of experience. Full Article Computer and Technology
development Ever Closer Alliance? New Developments in Russia-China Relations By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: Wed, 20 Nov 2019 13:45:01 +0000 Invitation Only Research Event 11 December 2019 - 9:00am to 1:00pm Chatham House | 10 St James's Square | London | SW1Y 4LE Agendapdf | 125.8 KB Event participants Yang Cheng, Professor of International Relations, Assistant Dean, School of International Relations and Public Affairs, Shanghai International Studies UniversityYu Jie, Senior Research Fellow, Asia-Pacific Programme, Chatham HouseMarcin Kaczmarski, Lecturer in Security Studies, University of GlasgowNatasha Kuhrt, Lecturer, Department of War Studies, King’s College LondonBobo Lo, Non-Resident Fellow, Lowy InstituteAlexey Maslov, Professor, School of Asian Studies, National Research University, Higher School of Economics, Moscow At face value, recent years have seen a deepening in Sino-Russian cooperation, from energy agreements, to the recent Huawei-MTS deal developing a 5G network in Russia. Ever larger-in-scale joint military exercises add to fears by some that the 'axis of convenience' is now a more genuine – and threatening – partnership.This workshop will offer a sober assessment of the latest developments in Sino-Russian relations, shedding light on the underpinnings and practical realities of the relationship as well as on the long-term challenges of upholding cooperation.The panel will discuss the different and potentially diverging interpretations of contemporary Sino-Russian relations as well as the implications for the rules-based international order.This event is co-organized by the Chatham House Russia and Eurasia Programme and the University of Exeter and is supported by the British International Studies Association.Attendance at this event is by invitation only. Department/project Asia-Pacific Programme, Russia and Eurasia Programme Anna Morgan Administrator, Ukraine Forum +44 (0)20 7389 3274 Email Full Article
development Top Mobile app Development Company in Noida By investing.96.lt Published On :: Sat, 04 Aug 2018 04:55:57 UTC We are leading Top mobile app development company in Mumbai, Delhi, Noida, India. We have award winning Android and iOS developers to build your mobile apps with long term support. Full Article News
development CRM Software Development Company By investing.96.lt Published On :: Sun, 21 Apr 2019 02:12:55 UTC Sales Fundaa is a Dial N Search Pvt. Ltd. initiative, provides ERP software, CRM Software, Project Management Software, Manufacturing Software, AMC Software, Data Management Software, Real Estate CRM, Logistics Software and Human Resource Management Software. Full Article News
development Mainstreaming the environment into post-war recovery: the case for 'ecological development' By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: Fri, 07 Sep 2012 10:43:22 +0000 7 September 2012 , Volume 88, Number 5 Richard Milburn Full Article
development Deepening the pool - Western Jamaican swim clubs seek government development and new pool in region to foster training By jamaica-gleaner.com Published On :: Wed, 06 May 2020 23:18:02 -0500 Western Bureau: A number of swimming officials in western Jamaica say that the region’s struggles with underdevelopment will continue even if the COVID-19 pandemic is brought under control. They say this is because they still lack proper pools to... Full Article
development Abortion as a development issue By feeds.bmj.com Published On :: Wed, 25 May 2016 11:01:19 +0000 Interviews from the Women deliver conference in Copenhagen. Catrin Schulte-Hillen, co-ordinator of reproductive health and sexual violence care at Medecins Sans Frontieres, explains why the development community shouldn't conflate sexual violence and access to abortion. Full Article
development How does maximizing shareholder value distort drug development? By feeds.bmj.com Published On :: Thu, 28 Jul 2016 09:01:43 +0000 With the emergence of sofobuvir, a new direct acting antiviral, treatment for Hepatitis C infection is currently undergoing it's greatest change since the discovery of the virus 25 years ago. However Gilead, who manufacture the treatment, are under fire for the cost of the druge - around $90 000 for a course of treatment. Victor Roy, doctoral... Full Article
development C-Reactive Protein Is an Independent Predictor of Risk for the Development of Diabetes in the West of Scotland Coronary Prevention Study By diabetes.diabetesjournals.org Published On :: 2002-05-01 Dilys J. FreemanMay 1, 2002; 51:1596-1600Complications Full Article
development Protein kinase C activation and the development of diabetic complications By diabetes.diabetesjournals.org Published On :: 1998-06-01 D KoyaJun 1, 1998; 47:859-866Articles Full Article
development Elevated Levels of Acute-Phase Proteins and Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 Predict the Development of Type 2 Diabetes: The Insulin Resistance Atherosclerosis Study By diabetes.diabetesjournals.org Published On :: 2002-04-01 Andreas FestaApr 1, 2002; 51:1131-1137Complications Full Article
development The Relationship of Glycemic Exposure (HbA1c) to the Risk of Development and Progression of Retinopathy in the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial By diabetes.diabetesjournals.org Published On :: 1995-08-01 The Diabetes Control and Complications Trial Research GroupAug 1, 1995; 44:968-983Original Article Full Article
development Role of Oxidative Stress in Development of Complications in Diabetes By diabetes.diabetesjournals.org Published On :: 1991-04-01 John W BaynesApr 1, 1991; 40:405-412Perspectives in Diabetes Full Article
development A refreshing look at personal development and success By jamaica-gleaner.com Published On :: Sun, 05 Apr 2020 00:22:41 -0500 At the outset, author Ivy Slater shares the existential crisis that spurred her to change careers. Slater’s psychosocial experience after the passing of her father and the stagnation she experienced at her printing business proved exhaustively... Full Article
development The roots to peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo: conservation as a platform for green development By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: Wed, 02 Jul 2014 10:59:45 +0000 2 July 2014 , Volume 90, Number 4 Richard Milburn Full Article
development Resource Development in Fragile and Conflict-Affected States: Can it Promote Peace? By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: Wed, 10 Dec 2014 14:15:02 +0000 Research Event 30 September 2014 - 1:30pm to 4:45pm Chatham House, London The discovery of valuable natural resources such as hydrocarbons or minerals in conflict-affected states or disputed regions can be a double-edged sword. While economic growth may help overcome conflict and consolidate peace, much of the academic literature links the economic, social and environmental impacts of resource development with an increased risk of violent conflict between or within fragile states. Recently however, the role of business in advancing peace has emerged as a topic of increasing discussion in academia and in forums such as the UN Global Compact. Resource development has also become a key objective for donor development strategies in fragile states such as Afghanistan, Somalia and Myanmar, on the assumption that extractive sector development can contribute to stability and security. This event will gather key stakeholders from business and policy to investigate if and where natural resource development has contributed to peace-building, built cooperation among stakeholders or helped to resolve, rather than exacerbate, tensions. If so, it will endeavour to draw out common, replicable lessons of what made these developments successful from a peace-building perspective.The event will be held under the Chatham House Rule. Event attributes Chatham House Rule Department/project Energy, Environment and Resources Programme, Resources Climate Conflict and Peacebuilding Full Article
development Governance in the DRC: Securing Resources for Development By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: Fri, 16 Jan 2015 14:30:02 +0000 Invitation Only Research Event 21 January 2015 - 10:30am to 11:30am Chatham House, London Event participants Moïse Katumbi Chapwe, Governor, Katanga Province, Democratic Republic of the Congo Katanga Province in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is immensely wealthy in minerals such as copper, uranium and gold, and is home to around fifty per cent of the world’s cobalt reserves. Rising outputs from the province’s copper and cobalt mines have contributed to the DRC’s average GDP growth of 8.5 per cent over the past two years. However, despite visible infrastructure developments in the province to service the industry, few Congolese are benefiting from the revenues and the economy is yet to diversify.Moïse Katumbi Chapwe, the governor of Katanga Province, will discuss his approach to resource governance and will examine how regional governments can capitalise on resource revenues to improve livelihoods. Attendance at this event is by invitation only. Department/project Africa Programme, Central and East Africa Full Article
development How the New Indonesia-EU FLEGT Licence Can Contribute to the Sustainable Development Agenda By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: Tue, 15 Nov 2016 10:48:05 +0000 15 November 2016 Alison Hoare Senior Research Fellow, Energy, Environment and Resources Programme LinkedIn The FLEGT timber licence marks a breakthrough in the battle against illegal logging and has the potential to help towards achieving the SDGs in the forest sector and beyond. 2016-11-15-Indonesia-logging.jpg Collected logs along a river in West Kalimantan province, Indonesia. Photo by Getty Images. Today Indonesia begins issuing the first ever FLEGT licenses for timber exports bound for the EU market. A major step in the battle against illegal logging and trade in illegal timber, these licenses are issued under a national system to verify the legality of all timber and timber products. A commitment to licensing its timber exports to Europe was made in the country’s Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) with the EU, although the licensing system applies to all exports and to the domestic market. The scale of this achievement can not be underestimated given the size of the country and of its forest sector – there are hundreds of thousands of forest enterprises ranging from large-scale concession holders and processing industries, to smallholders and micro-scale loggers, saw-millers and manufacturers.It is also remarkable given the state of Indonesia’s forest sector at the turn of the century. Looking back to 2000, rule of law was all but absent and corruption was rife - with the allocation of concessions and timber industries closely tied with the country’s ruling elite. Widespread logging contributed to the high rates of deforestation seen at the turn of the century, which stood at over one per cent per year.In 2016, the forest sector is vastly different – there are much higher levels of accountability and legal compliance, the result of the considerable effort and resources that have been put into enforcement and anti-corruption efforts. The sector is also much more open, reflected both in the significant improvements in the availability of forest data and legislation as well as the increased space that has been made available to civil society to participate both in policy processes and in monitoring of the sector.These improvements are the result in large part of the reform processes that have been enabled and supported by the VPA process, for which negotiations began in 2007. However, the process is far from complete and the issuance of FLEGT licences is best viewed as a marking point in an ongoing trajectory towards establishing a legal and sustainable sector.If we take 2000 as the starting point of this trajectory, with FLEGT licensing as the midway point, this brings us to just beyond 2030, the target date for the UN’s global agenda for sustainable development of which the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) are an integral part. The SDGs provide a broader framework for considering what further progress is needed in the coming years both to improve legality and to ensure that the forest sector makes a positive contribution towards achieving widespread sustainable development in Indonesia.There are a number of factors that risk the achievement of these aims. Key challenges that remain in the country’s forest sector include the high levels of informality in the small-scale sector, corruption, limited transparency and pressure on forests from other sectors (as highlighted in the report 'Illegal Logging and Related Trade. The Response in Indonesia').As noted, there are hundreds of thousands of forest enterprises in the country, many of which – particularly small-scale businesses – operate informally. Further concerted efforts are needed to ensure that these enterprises are not excluded from the formal market, but are able to contribute to a thriving economy – for example, through continued support for certification, as well as much greater investment in the provision of extension services and further reforms to establish a policy framework that facilitates the growth of small businesses (see 'Improving Legality Among Small-Scale Forest Enterprises'). This will make an important contribution to the achievement of SDG 8, to enable ‘decent work and economic growth’, this including the target [8.3] to encourage the growth of small enterprises.Both corruption and limited transparency also need to be addressed if widespread legality and sustainability are to be achieved in the forest sector. Transparency has improved greatly in the forest sector, with significant improvements to the availability of information and the establishment of independent monitoring by civil society. However, further progress is needed to improve the accessibility of information, not least to ensure that NGOs are able to fulfil this monitoring role. In relation to corruption, the anti-corruption agency has made good progress, but it remains under threat and needs to be strengthened. Improving governance is a priority under the SDGs, Goal 16 (peace, justice and strong institutions) including targets to reduce corruption, develop transparent institutions and ensure public access to information. The progress made in these areas also needs to be replicated outside the forest sector. A major threat to Indonesia’s forests comes from conversion to other land-uses, in particular agricultural plantations. Effective land-use planning, including transparent and participatory decision-making, is needed if the sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources is to be achieved and deforestation slowed – as set out under SDG 12 (responsible consumption and production) and SDG 15 (life on land).An important means to drive progress is to ensure close monitoring of progress as well as the evaluation of the measures being adopted. A framework for monitoring the impact of FLEGT licences, as well as the related measures being implemented under the VPA, is under development. This will need to link up to national efforts to monitor progress towards the SDGs – both to contribute towards the monitoring of these goals and to facilitate communication of the progress and lessons being learnt in the forest sector.To comment on this article, please contact Chatham House Feedback Full Article
development Mining and National Development in the New Global Context By feedproxy.google.com Published On :: Fri, 18 Nov 2016 10:53:00 +0000 Research Event 1 December 2016 - 5:30pm to 7:00pm Chatham House, London Event participants Tom Butler, Chief Executive Officer, International Council for Mining and Metals (ICMM)Evelyn Dietsche, Associate Fellow, Energy, Environment and Resources, Chatham HouseChair: Bernice Lee, Executive Director, Hoffman Centre, Chatham House During the resources boom of the last decade, countries, companies and communities alike were quick to highlight the transformative potential of the mining sector. With appropriate governance advice and capacity-building support, it seemed the ‘resource curse’ could be overcome. Yet as companies have adjusted their spending in response to declining global commodities prices and longer-term supply and demand projections, low- and middle-income resource-rich economies appear to have increased their dependence on the minerals sector. But how far has the potential of the mining sector been realised to date, and how different does this potential look today?Taking ICMM’s third edition of the ‘Role of Mining in National Economies’ as the starting point, this meeting will critically assess the contribution that mining has made to development over the past decade, the prospects for ‘mining-led’ growth in the new global context, and the relevance of classic fiscal, employment and governance prescriptions. Department/project Energy, Environment and Resources Programme Owen Grafham Manager, Energy, Environment and Resources Programme +44 (0)20 7957 5708 Email Full Article
development Use of electronic medical records in development and validation of risk prediction models of hospital readmission: systematic review By feeds.bmj.com Published On :: Wednesday, April 8, 2020 - 09:41 Full Article
development Development through Diversity: Engaging Armenia’s New and Old Diaspora By www.migrationpolicy.org Published On :: Wed, 23 Mar 2016 11:26:58 -0400 The Armenian diaspora, which significantly exceeds the country's resident population, has played an instrumental role in Armenia's political and economic development since independence in 1991. Yet a picture emerges of divergent currents within the diaspora, often seen from above as a unified entity. Delve into differences in engagement among Armenia's "old" and "new" diasporas with this feature article. Full Article
development It Takes a Village: Despite Challenges, Migrant Groups Lead Development in Senegal By www.migrationpolicy.org Published On :: Wed, 03 Oct 2018 19:21:15 -0400 For generations, migrants have emigrated from Senegal, particularly from in and around the Senegal River Valley. With France a key destination, French policy changes have had significant impact on Senegalese migrants and the hometown associations through which they support development in Senegal. This article explores how these policy shifts influence development and quality of life in the Senegal River Valley. Full Article
development The Global Compact for Migration: How Does Development Fit In? By www.migrationpolicy.org Published On :: Mon, 27 Nov 2017 12:38:09 -0500 Migration and development are intimately linked, but they have not always shared the international policy stage. As UN Member States kick off negotiations for the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration—and with adoption planned for 2018—this brief examines the evolving relationship between these policy areas and considers what a global compact has to offer, if well designed. Full Article
