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Scientific facts about the relationships between the goals are indispensable for the rational social discourse on solving the various conflicting goals on the way to sustainable crop production. Therefore, the German Society for Agronomy has compiled scientific findings on the topics of biodiversity, climate relevance and climate resilience, nutrient management, crop protection, soil protection and production of renewable raw materials, and identified the existing need for research. After an executive summary that highlights the findings, the subject areas are explained in detail. The purpose of this paper is not to make recommendations for policy-making, but to support the public debate by providing factual information.

In developing countries, AIDS is transmitted in essentially the same way as other sexually transmitted diseases. Therefore the spread of AIDS is also associated with travel. Unfortunately, it is still very difficult to assess the distribution of the infection, especially in developing countries, because in these countries often only 10% of the cases are identified and registered. It can, however, be stated that the highest infection rates are found in Central Africa, in some South American cities, and in the Caribbean. Moderately high rates are found in Western Europe, the USA, Canada and Australia. In the Eastern bloc, in Asiatic countries and in the Pacific area, and in considerable parts of North Africa and South America, the pandemic is only just beginning. Sexual intercourse has been found to be the main means of transmission of HIV infection in developing countries. In addition, further risk factors have been identified; venereal disease, and ulcers on the sexual organs. The risk of parenteral transfer is also considerable, because of inadequate testing of blood for transfusion, and the lack of satisfactory facilities for sterilisation. For tourists and development workers, the risk of infection depends very much on their own behaviour when they are overseas. Though the risk of infection is somewhat higher in developing countries, it can clearly be greatly reduced if travellers are adequately informed and are thus equipped to take the necessary precautions.

A double-blind study comparing the efficacy and safety of diflunisal (Unisal), a new derivative of salicylic acid, and acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin) was conducted in the rheumatology clinics of the Cantonal Hospital Beau-Séjour, Geneva, and the Triemli City Hospital, Zurich. A total of 38 patients with established osteoarthritis of the hip and/or knee were studied for 12 weeks. The daily dose of diflunisal was 500-750 mg and that of acetylsalicylic acid 2000-3000 mg. After 12 weeks diflunisal was judged superior to Aspirin by both patients and investigators. Among the most important clinical symptoms evaluated were pain and limitation of motion. Side effects, particularly gastro-intestinal symptoms, of sufficient severity to cause discontinuation of therapy were more frequent in the acetylsalicylic acid-treated patients than in the group receiving diflunisal.