The Effect of Glyphosate on Human Sperm: In Vitro Approximation

Introduction Glyphosate is an herbicide used to eradicate illicit crops; however, its use is controversial due to different health problems associated with it. The present study aims to evaluate the effects of glyphosate on human sperm in vitro. Methods Twenty-two semen samples from healthy normozoospermic men were included; 11 semen samples were incubated with Panzer (INVESA S.A., Antiquia, Colombia) and 11 with Roundup (Monsanto Company, MO, USA). The changes in motility and viability were observed. Functional seminal parameters were evaluated as well. Results The samples exposed to glyphosate showed less motility and viability; a decrease in the potential of the mitochondrial membrane was observed, and an increase in the lipoperoxidation of the membrane was evidenced. Conclusion Based on the present results, we concluded that glyphosate has cytotoxic potential for exposed people and may affect their fertility.

PRIVATE SOCIAL INVESTMENTS AS A SOLUTION FOR RURAL DEVELOPMENT

One of the greatest challenges for rural areas competitiveness is lack of their investment attractiveness. Therefore, the research problem lays upon disclosing the importance of private social investments for rural development. The paper aims to develop measures to activate private social investments in Ukrainian rural areas. The study is performed through a comparative analysis of an appropriate Lithuanian and Polish experience and a case study of Monsanto Company that is one of the few social responsible rural businesses in Ukraine. The results section represents findings to determine the current experience of social investments and recommendations how to improve the situation in Ukrainian rural areas. In particular, the rural areas require changing the state role from the direct investor into rural development manager, implementing project approach benefits.

Monsanto Company

Monsanto is facing an uncertain near-term financial outlook, and this case challenges students to generate an operating forecast (income statement and balance sheet operating accounts). The case naturally lends itself to sensitivity analysis related to sales growth assumptions. Suitable for MBA and undergraduate learners, it covers the basics of forecasting without introducing the complexities associated with financing. A teaching note is available.

The Seeds of Dispute: Vernon Hugh Bowman v. Monsanto Company et al.

In May 2013, the U.S. Supreme Court decided in Vernon Hugh Bowman v. Monsanto Company et al. in favor of Monsanto Company, affirming the judgment of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit and holding that patent exhaustion does not permit a farmer to reproduce patented seeds through planting and harvesting without the patent holder's permission.This case note gives a brief overview of the U.S. Supreme Court's decision, in which the meaning and limits of the doctrine of patent exhaustion have been examined, and discusses its implications for farmers and seed companies.