FR 2020-29144

The document from the Federal Register announces a closed meeting organized by the National Institute on Aging, a branch of the National Institutes of Health under the Department of Health and Human Services. The purpose of the meeting is to review and evaluate grant applications focusing on Alzheimer's Disease research.

General Summary

This notice informs the public about a meeting scheduled for February 12, 2021, which will be held via video conference. It provides essential details such as the time, agenda, and contact information for the Scientific Review Officer, Dr. Joshua Jin-Hyouk Park. The meeting will be closed to the public due to the potential disclosure of confidential information, as permitted under the Federal Advisory Committee Act and related statutes.

Significant Issues and Concerns

One notable issue with the document is its lack of detailed criteria explaining why the meeting is closed beyond referencing general provisions. While the document mentions protecting confidential trade secrets and personal privacy, it does not delve into specifics. This lack of clarity may raise concerns about transparency for those interested in the grant applications or the meeting process itself.

Additionally, the notice is somewhat vague about the nature of the grant applications being reviewed. Although it highlights the focus on Alzheimer's Disease, it does not detail the scope or types of proposals under consideration. This could make it hard for the scientific community and the public to understand the potential impact of the research being discussed.

Another concern is the limited availability of contact options. While Dr. Park's contact information is provided, there is no alternative contact or method for public inquiries, which could hinder communication, especially for individuals seeking more information.

Furthermore, there is no mention of how the outcomes or decisions made during the meeting will be communicated to the public. This lack of follow-up information could be perceived as a shortfall in transparency and accountability.

Impact on the Public

For the general public, this document indicates the government's ongoing efforts to support research in Alzheimer's Disease, a significant public health concern affecting millions. However, because the meeting is closed, it may breed skepticism among some individuals who advocate for open government proceedings.

Positive and Negative Impacts on Stakeholders

For researchers and institutions involved in Alzheimer's research, the meeting represents an opportunity to secure funding, potentially resulting in advancements in understanding and treating the disease. The closed nature of the meeting arguably supports an environment where sensitive information can be safely shared, protecting intellectual property and personal identities.

Conversely, individuals with an interest in government transparency or those invested in the outcomes of such research might view the closed meeting as exclusionary. They might argue for more detailed public disclosure of the topics discussed and decisions reached, promoting greater accountability.

In summary, while the document fulfills basic legal requirements for public notice, it leaves room for improvement in terms of transparency, detailed explanations, and public engagement.