Europe sees research gender gap

Addressing whether research has a “gender dimension” is to become a greater priority under new plans for European funding, reports the Times of London

“The term refers to the fact that research does not always account for differences between men and women and this needs to be woven into the fabric of research projects.images-3

“Katrien Maes, chief policy officer at the League of European Research Universities, said a failure to consider gender in research has led to medicines being less evidence-based for women and has also resulted in products and services being ill-designed for, or untested on, women.

“The issue was discussed at the Leru round-table event on “Women, research and universities: excellence without gender bias” on 22 March in Brussels, and may gain greater prominence under the next research funding framework, Horizon 2020. Dr Maes said the European Commission was considering whether to strengthen its requirements for applicants to take into account the gender dimension of research in funding applications from 2014 to 2020.

“If somebody puts in a proposal for a research project, they could ask, have you taken into account whether there is a need to have a gender dimension? Are there any gender or sex analyses that are necessary?” said Dr Maes. The Commission may also introduce specific funding for gender- related research in areas such as the environment, transport and nutrition. Continue reading “Europe sees research gender gap”

Justin Bieber’s breath of fresh air

imgres-2Over 35-million Twitter followers of Justin Bieber went into a panic when the Biebs lost his breath on stage and had to be rushed off stage in London.

Ironically, the breathing problem occurred at a concert  London’s “O2” Arena. Spokesperson Melissa Victor told reporters the Canadian singer took a 20-minute rest before returning to the stage to finish the show. The BBC reported that “The 19-year-old star was performing the third out of four nights at the venue. Earlier this week he was criticized for keeping fans waiting after coming on stage late for Monday’s performance.

“Ms Victor said after the concert: “[Justin’s] heading to the doctor now. He fainted and took a 20-minute reprieve and was given oxygen.”In a video posted by a fan on YouTube, Bieber’s manager Scooter Braun was seen on stage during the show giving the audience an explanation as to why the show had come to a temporary halt. He told fans: “Justin got very light of breath, the whole show he’s been complaining. He’s backstage with the EMTs [emergency medical team] and the doctor. Continue reading “Justin Bieber’s breath of fresh air”