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.
Read moreThe Chemistry of Love
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."
Read moreUnlocking Exciting New Skills and Hobbies
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.
Read moreEverything, Everywhere, All At Once
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.
Read moreSavouring Memories: The Nostalgic Journey through Cultural Cuisine
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.
Read moreManaging Anxiety Over the Holidays
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.
Read moreFestive Feasting: Desserts For the Holiday Season
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.
Read moreITR: Insight Towards All Med Sci Modules
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.
Read moreSSC Advocacy: Behind the Scenes
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.
Read moreProminent Black Figures in Science
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.
Read moreEnvironmental Wellness Tips
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.
Read moreAustralian Wildfires: A Terrible Sign of What Could Come
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.
Read moreHow Virtual Reality is Changing Research at Western
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.
Read moreOne Health Awareness Month: Appreciating the Environment, Animals and Ourselves
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.
Read moreChoosing the Right Pet
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.
Read moreFaculty Spotlight: Dr. Brent Sinclair
With over 40 faculty members, the Department of Biology is one of the most diverse departments within the faculty of science. Even “biology” itself, that is the study of life, can encompass many aspects. This is no surprise, as life can exist in a myriad of forms, with just as many ways to study it. One example of biology’s unique facets is entomology, the study of insects. Dr. Brent Sinclair, a professor in the Department of Biology, has been studying insect cold tolerance for over 20 years, an interest that stemmed from his early years in university.
Read moreLibrarians and Archivists at UWO
Recently, as of November 21st, 2019, Western’s Board of Governors ratified the tentative agreement reached by the University’s Librarians and Archivists (UWOFA-LA) on November 4th. This deal had been passed by the 42 members representing the UWOFA-LA, with 89 percent voting in favor. With the new collective deal in place, a potential strike between UWOFA-LA and the University had been avoided. As students, librarians and archivists play a key role in supporting our education. While their role may be much more “behind-the-scenes”, librarians and archivists are in charge of maintaining many important services.
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