“Sorry, we’re out of tables.”
Unable to find a reservation on Valentine’s Day?
Forget about dinner with a rose,
There’s romance under your nose.
Here, in London, Ontario,
Where love beautifully grows!
What is Sleep and Why Are University Students so Bad at it?
Sleep is a beloved time of rest, peace and recharging; many look forward to it either at night or for a middle-of-the-day nap! Exploring what sleep is and factors that play into poor sleep hygiene may help improve sleep quality.
Read moreImpacts of Clean Energy on the Environment
For the purposes of protecting wildlife and limiting the impacts of climate change, countries have been working towards developing an infrastructure of clean energy. Methods of clean energy serve as an alternative to traditional fossil-fuel-based resources, resulting in less air and water pollution as opposed to the consumption of combustible fuels, including coal, natural gas, and petroleum oil.
Read moreMeet the Candidates: The Faces of the SSC Elections
As the Science Students' Council SSC elections come to an end, students have had the opportunity to select leaders who will advocate for their interests and shape the future of the faculty. With platforms addressing student advocacy, academic concerns, and community engagement, this year’s election presents an exciting slate of candidates eager to shape the future of the faculty. The Current reached out to the two presidential candidates and eight councillor hopefuls to learn more about their vision, priorities, and what sets them apart.
Read moreBeyond the Lab Bench: Western Science Alumni Shape the Future
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.
Read moreSeeing Green: Strengthening The Economy Through Proactive Environmentalism
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.
Read moreMoving the Alzheimer's Diagnosis Needle: From Blood, Biomarkers, and Beyond
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.
Read moreCarbon Dioxide Sequestration? What is that?
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.
Read moreThe Climate Crisis Won’t Wait—Neither Should Western’s Curriculum
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.
Read moreFrom Prescription to Pollution: The Impact of Pharmaceuticals on the Environment
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.
Read moreThings to do During The Fall!
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!
Read moreUnknown, Unusual Species New to Science: Recently Discovered Species in the World
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.
Read moreCRISPR: With great power comes great responsibility
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.
Read moreMastering Midterm Stress: Effective Strategies for Staying Calm and Focused
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.
Read moreAI Does More Damage Than We Really Think
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.
Read moreThe Future of Biomedical Research: 3D Cell Tissue Cultures
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.
Read moreResearch Spotlight: Brainwaves and Painwaves in Opioid Addiction
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.
Read moreThe creepy, crawly, scaly, and slimy–the most misunderstood-y
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.
Read moreO-Week Recap
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!
Read moreLove on Screen
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.
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