FABBS reports on items of interest to many communities – scientists, policymakers, and the public. In our news, you will see updates on science funding and policy, articles that translate research for policy, and descriptions of the research contributions of scientists at all stages of their research careers.
Think, Blink, or Sleep on It
September 25, 2019
Ever been advised to listen to your gut when trying to make a decision? A new paper in Policy Insights from the Behavioral and Brain Sciences says snap decisions concerning complex issues often are the least likely way to end up feeling good about your choice.
Better options are deliberation and distraction—but choosing between those depends largely on the information and what being asked, according to the paper, “Evaluating the Benefits of Conscious and
read moreNICHD Releases Strategic Plan and NIMH Advisory Councils Meet
September 25, 2019
The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) released their strategic plan at their Advisory Council meeting on September 18. The last time NICHD updated their mission and plan was 20 years ago.
As readers may recall, FABBS had submitted comments back in February in response to the draft plan. While it is clear that NICHD gave careful consideration to comments and that the revision addresses some of the concerns we expressed, it still lacks
read moreDemonstrating Research on Cognitive Functioning in Virtual Reality to Lawmakers
September 25, 2019
At the Coalition for Health Funding Public Health Fair, FABBS partnered with our member society, the American Psychological Association (APA), to showcase the innovative work of two University of Iowa researchers. Dr. Jodie Plumert, a psychologist, in collaboration with Dr. Joseph Kearney, a computer scientist, use virtual reality to study child pedestrian and bike safety – risk free.
Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard (D-CA) put on the virtual reality headset,
read moreCongress is Back in Session for a Busy September
September 11, 2019
Congress returned to Washington, DC after a summer recess. Shortly before leaving town, Congress had passed an agreement to lift the unworkable budget caps put into place back in 2011, paving the way for a busy September.
The House has already passed 10 of the 12 appropriations bills. The Senate, on the other hand, had announced their plans to move four appropriations bills each week. The subcommittee scheduled mark-ups for Labor Health and Human Services (LHHS), the
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