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You’ve probably heard of actor Simu Liu and NDP party leader Jagmeet Singh, but let’s introduce some Western alumni in the scientific community.
Climate change is a pressing issue that is continually on the rise. It is also, unfortunately, a highly politicized topic. The climate crisis is often discussed in a silo; disconnected from other pervasive issues like physical/mental health and the economy. The environment and the economy are not independent, nor is one more important than the other. Prioritizing one over the other is going to have devastating effects, some of which we already have begun to see such as increased cost of living, loss of resources, and increased frequencies of natural disasters.
The current status quo for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) diagnosis relies heavily on the onset of cognitive decline. By that stage, the proteopathies (disease-causing misfolding proteins in the brain) have likely spread notably. This delays intervention, reducing the likelihood of effective symptom management or lifespan extension.
We’ve all seen the headlines and climate action plans shouting “net-zero by 2050,” right? It’s easy to assume that this means we’re aiming for a complete stop in the pollutants we emit. But here’s the catch: the “net” in “net-zero” means that we’re not aiming to drive production of carbon dioxide to zero — instead, it means striving to balance inputs and outputs so that we reach an equilibrium.
Why Every Degree Should Include Climate Literacy - Climate change isn’t just an environmental issue and it’s dangerous to think of it that way. It’s a global crisis that affects everyone, regardless of their field, age, or demographic.
It is no secret that the pharmaceutical industry in Canada is a thriving business. In 2021, the total value of pharmaceuticals sold reached $34.1 billion, with roughly 33,000 people employed in manufacturing these drugs (Government of Canada, 2024). Many of us rely on these medications, whether you are popping an Advil for that annoying headache, or reaching for the antihistamines for those seasonal allergies. But have you ever wondered where these consumed medications go after they’ve done their job? You might assume they’re completely used up by your body to cure your ailments, but that’s not always the case.
With the end of October here, it’s easy to feel the pressure of upcoming exams and assignments piling up. This fall season can be the perfect opportunity to recharge and prepare while finding some balance in between. Here are some ways to make the most of this colourful season, ease stress, and find some enjoyment!
As of today, scientists have estimated 10 million to 14 million species on Earth, of which only 1.2 million are included in our database of known species, including animals, plants, fungi, and microorganisms. In 2023, 968 new species were discovered.
When you think of CRISPR, the gene-editing tool, you might picture a dystopian future with designer babies, or perhaps a sci-fi scenario like Peter Parker gaining superpowers from a spider bite that alters his DNA. But in reality, CRISPR is far from either of those extremes (sorry to anyone hoping to become the next Spiderman). Instead, it's becoming one of the most promising breakthroughs in medicine, and it's all happening right now.
Deadlines, heavy workloads, and the pressure to do well can often make midterms an overwhelming time for students. Although some stress can be helpful for motivation, chronic stress can hinder cognitive function, focus, and well-being. Managing stress during midterms is vital to maintaining clarity and productivity. This involves mastering mental and emotional strategies to maintain focus and motivation.
Black Mirror is a popular Netflix show that showcases instances of futuristic applications of technology. It is unsettling and eerie and yet, we have already experienced some of the examples shown in Black Mirror. As we advance in technology in innovative and beautiful ways, its use for sinister and heinous motives also surfaces.
3D cell cultures are revolutionizing biomedical research right now, offering an innovative way to study human biology. As opposed to the traditional 2D cultures which often fail to replicate the complexity of living organisms, 3D cultures create a more accurate environment that allows researchers to simulate in vivo conditions without needing to test on humans or animals.
In a quest for profit, greed and cutting corners cost lives—a truth that lies at the heart of the opioid crisis. When people say the opioid crisis began with one family, they’re not mistaken.
As a former wildlife educator at an animal sanctuary, I have learned when snakes hiss, it’s not a threat but a warning – they may be shedding, digesting, or in another state of vulnerability. When they wrap around us, they are not trying to constrict us, but to soak up our warmth. After all, cold-blooded does not mean cold-hearted, it means they require external heat to regulate their body temperature.
During Western University’s orientation week (O-Week), new undergraduate students were welcomed into campus life and introduced to the various opportunities awaiting them. This year, during Faculty Day, the Faculty of Science left a lasting impression by showcasing the incredible resources within Western’s vibrant scientific community!
Love is in the air, and what better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than with a cozy movie night? Whether you're snuggled up with your valentine or enjoying your own company, here are five heartwarming and romantic films guaranteed to tug at your heartstrings.
As February rolls in, thoughts of love inevitably take centre stage. With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, chocolates and flowers fly off the shelves as people seek to express affection for their "special someone."
In today’s fast-paced society, finding time for personal growth and enjoyment is paramount. Embracing new skills and hobbies not only brings a sense of fulfilment but also enriches our lives. Whether you're an individual seeking solo pursuits or a social butterfly looking for group activities, there's an abundance of exciting possibilities waiting for you. In this article, let's embark on a journey of discovery and personal growth.
Regardless of how demanding your high school experience was, the first year of university tends to be challenging for a majority of students. However, it does not always have to be that way. In the modern world, we have numerous tools to streamline our university experience. Therefore, due to the tendency for procrastination among students, I have compiled a brief list of tools and tricks that have helped me stay organized in my academic journey.
In the bustling metropolis of Bombay, where the sea breeze carries the whispers of a thousand stories and the streets are alive with the rhythm of life, every dish is a melody, and every flavour a verse. As someone born in the heart of this vibrant city, the foods of Bombay are not just a culinary delight; they are the threads that weave the tapestry of my heritage.
As the holiday season nears, you may experience more anxiety than cheer, a common effect of its accompanying joy, stress, and high expectations. This period often brings a mix of emotions, balancing festivity with the pressure of meeting societal and personal standards. To aid you in this time, this guide from The Current is crafted to help you manage these varied challenges effectively. It aims to ensure that you can relish the season's delights without succumbing to the potential overwhelm.
As December rolls around, it always brings with it the “most wonderful time of the year” (at least according to Andy Williams). I always enjoy the holiday season because it gives me an excuse to carry out my favourite hobby excessively – baking. No matter which December event you attend, you're sure to steal the spotlight by bringing a homemade dessert for everyone to enjoy.
The fast-approaching due date to submit our Intent to Register (ITR) applications, coupled with the extraordinary disruptions to our university schedules, has overwhelmed many of us with stress and feelings of uncertainty. To further help those seeking insight towards all basic modules offered in Medical Sciences, The Current has teamed up with upper year students in their own respective modules who have kindly chosen to share their experiences.
Advocacy is the foundation of the Science Students’ Council (SSC). Yet ironically, it is also the aspect of SSC that is most elusive to students. How does the SSC exactly advocate for us, the Science students? Who represents our opinions in front of the faculty members? Does advocacy even occur? The glaring existence of these questions are justified, precisely because advocacy is more so achieved behind-the-curtains.
In light of Black History Month, it is important to honour the contributions that various black individuals throughout history have made towards science. Whether they were researchers, authors, inventors or even patients, their contributions have forever changed the scientific world for the better.
With reading week behind us, we are wrapping up our sustainability article series with 10 simple and efficient ways to be mindful of your environmental wellness.
Since the start of the school year in September, Australia has been ravaged by wildfires. Even after several months, a cooler climate, and a herculean effort by Australian firefighters, approximately 60 fires are still burning in parts of Australia such as New South Wales and Victoria. The intensity and duration of this season’s wildfires are simply unprecedented, and some experts point to the influence of global warming.
The CulhamARI lab from the Brain and Mind Institute at Western University is leading the development of a virtual gaming environment for functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Their project will involve determining whether brain activity in real life situations can match those produced by the actions of a virtual avatar. They also intend to analyze brain activation produced by three dimensional environments and active video game-play.
For the most part of human history, the interconnected web between humans, environment, and animals has been more conceptual than methodological. While we have acknowledged the existence of the relationship since the Ancient Greek civilization, there was no scientifically rigorous approach of analyzing a looming issue that would inevitably affect the whole world. To fill this void, experts convened at Rockefeller University in 2004 and developed the Manhattan Principles to combat health threats to humans, animals and the environment, which now serve as the basis of the “One Health, One World” concept. Then on December 19, 2019, the U.S. Senate unanimously designated January 2020 as “National One Health Awareness Month” in the U.S.
One rainy afternoon in August, I sensed a strong emptiness in my heart—a void that demanded to be filled, and the only solution was the addition of a new pet to my family. I had four pets already: a Persian cat, a white bunny, a ball python, and a Chihuahua; but, as I realized that fateful day, I needed one more to be a full-time pet owner.
You’ve probably heard of actor Simu Liu and NDP party leader Jagmeet Singh, but let’s introduce some Western alumni in the scientific community.