This Week in Science Policy and Advocacy
Policy and Advocacy News
Graduate Students Say Proposed Tax Bill Could Cost Them Thousands
November 30, 2017 | The Morning Call
In this article, SfN member Kristen Anderson shares how a provision in the House tax bill, which treats free tuition as taxable income, could upend her education and halt her research. The Senate bill does not include this provision, but graduate students fear the provision will remain when the House and Senate bills are reconciled.
- Learn about U.S. advocacy programs at SfN.org
Zimbabwe's Researchers Hope Political Change Will Revitalize Science
November 24, 2017 | Nature
The end of Robert Mugabe’s authoritarian rule gives scientists new hope of a strengthened research environment in Zimbabwe. Researchers that formerly left Zimbabwe to avoid penalization from international sanctions and chronic underfunding are now tempted to return.
- Join the Advocacy Network to stay informed about issues related to neuroscience research at SfN.org
United Kingdom Relies on Science to Revive Flagging Economy
November 27, 2017 | Nature
The UK government’s recently released industrial strategy emphasized an increase in focus on research to help the economy as they prepare to leave the EU in 2019. UK scientists were previously promised public spending boosts and a rise in research and development tax credits for industry is hoped to increase partnership between the private and public sectors.
- Find information about global advocacy programs at SfN.org
Opinion
Five Ways to Fix Statistics
November 28, 2017 | Nature
In this editorial, statisticians offer recommendations for changes that could assist in fixing reproducibility issues. Some suggestions include adjusting for human cognition, not using statistical significance, stating false-positive risks, sharing analysis plans and results, and changing norms from within the field.
- Watch these webinars on enhancing scientific rigor in neuroscience on Neuronline
Articles of Interest
Ultrasound Could Offer Noninvasive Treatment for Parkinson's and Depression
November 27, 2017 | Scientific American
For the first time, ultrasound has been utilized safely and effectively to stimulate the brain of non-human primates. Focused ultrasound is relatively noninvasive and capable of accurate stimulation deep into the brain. Potential future uses include improved diagnostics and stimulation treatment in neurological diseases and disorders.
- Find more information on Parkinson’s and depression on BrainFacts.org
Light Therapy Might Help People With Bipolar Depression
November 27, 2017 | NPR
Many of the medications prescribed for bipolar disorder treat manic symptoms but are not effective in treating depressive phase. Promising preliminary findings indicate that bipolar patients have decreased depression after light therapy.
- Learn about depression treatment methods on BrainFacts.org
