cognitive scientist awards

  Fuzzy   cognitive   mapping (FCM) is a practical tool in participatory research. Its main use is clarifying causal understandings from several knowledge sources. It provides a shared substrate or language for sharing views of causality. This makes it easier for different interest groups to agree what to do next. Each map is a collection of causal relationships with three elements: factors (cause and outcome), arrows linking factors, and weights indicating the perceived influence of each cause on its outcome. Stakeholder maps are soft models of how they see causes of an outcome, such as access to services or systemic racism. Based on a standardized FCM protocol, we present four moments in FCM analysis. (1) Agree shared meaning across maps. (2) Calculate the maximum influence of perceived causes. (3) Simplify the maps for communication. (4) Identify priorities for action. We provide explanations of the four moments in FCM analysis, with examples from five countries. FCM o...

Friedreich ataxia (FA) is a rare, genetic, life-shortening, debilitating, and degenerative neuromuscular disorder. It is the most common inherited ataxia. 1,2,3  Early symptoms of FA, such as progressive loss of coordination, muscle weakness and fatigue, typically appear in childhood and can overlap with other diseases. 4  Most people living with FA will need to use a wheelchair within 10-20 years of their first symptoms. 2  The reported average age of death for FA patients is just 37 years old, although with appropriate and targeted care, individuals may live many years after confinement to a wheelchair. 5-7 About Biogen Founded in 1978, Biogen is a leading biotechnology company that pioneers innovative science to deliver new medicines to transform patients’ lives and to create value for shareholders and our communities. We apply deep understanding of human biology and leverage different modalities to advance first-in-class treatments or therapies that deliver superior o...