Bulletproof Skin: It Has Been Done!

Interdisciplinary artist Jalila Essaïdi, in collaboration with scientists and technicians, has successfully bioengineered and grown human skin containing spider silk that can stop a bullet at half speed [6,9], giving a futuristic glimpse into the potential of transgenic technology. Author: Alexa Burry The genetic engineering of animals for biomedical and human health applications is anContinue reading "Bulletproof Skin: It Has Been Done!"

Toxic Relationships: Definition, Signs, and Advice

“Love should never cost you your peace. It should never cost you your joy. It should never cost you your happiness. If there’s more negative in the situation than positive, something has to change” — Carolyn Gamble [1]. Author: Hadeel Alhadi  What is a toxic relationship?  A toxic relationship, according to professor Lillian Glass, isContinue reading "Toxic Relationships: Definition, Signs, and Advice"

Impact of Extracurricular Activities on Mental Health

Competitive sports have shown to decrease symptoms pertaining to both anxiety and depression, while conjointly encouraging self-esteem [2]. Author: Arpana Wadhwani With the beginning of a new semester year for many students, it is imperative to understand that extracurricular activities, though they may not appear to be at first glance, are an integral facet ofContinue reading "Impact of Extracurricular Activities on Mental Health"

Caffeine Addiction 101

The Signs and Consequences of Caffeine Addiction Caffeine addiction is usually indicated by a variety of symptoms, including a persistent desire, but the inability to control caffeine intake, withdrawal, caffeine tolerance, and cravings [8]. Author: Alison MacPhee What is Caffeine? Caffeine is classified as the world’s most popular psychoactive drug [1]. It is legal andContinue reading "Caffeine Addiction 101"

The Silent Killer: Ovarian Cancer

Most cases are discovered at later stages due to its difficult detection, which is why ovarian cancer is often termed ‘The Silent Killer’ Author: Dina Babiker Cancer has become one of the deadliest diseases of our time, and in Canada alone, it is responsible for the death of 30% of the population [1]. Cancer canContinue reading "The Silent Killer: Ovarian Cancer"

The Bystander Effect

The bystander effect is a simple concept: when in an emergency situation, observers are more likely to take action if there are few or no other witnesses [2] Author: Kaz Shuji A homeless man passes out on the street while people walk by. What is happening here and why does it seem to happen often? [1]Continue reading "The Bystander Effect"

The Body’s Lifeline: The Impact & Benefits of Donating Blood

 Although many generous Canadians already donate blood regularly, the more donors there are, the better. But why is blood demand so high? Author: Alison MacPhee Blood: Background Information Approximately 50% of Canadians will either be in need of blood components or know someone who will at some point in their lives. However, only 4% ofContinue reading "The Body’s Lifeline: The Impact & Benefits of Donating Blood"

Exploring Nonverbal Communication

Author: Kaz Shuji “Actions speak louder than words.” What exactly does this mean in the context of interpersonal communication? When we interact with others on a day-to-day basis, we are continuously giving and receiving wordless signals [1].  Nonverbal communication is a means of transmitting information through physical behaviour, expressions, gestures, postures, and mannerisms [1]. InContinue reading "Exploring Nonverbal Communication"

Music and the Brain: Cerebral Activity in Patients with Neurological Disorders

Does listening to music have any effect on the brain? Research has shown that music can positively impact the brain whether it is evoking memories in Alzheimer’s patients, or helping patients recover from a severe brain injury. Author: Jasmine Kokkat The number of parents paying for childrens’ music classes in Canada are increasing, and soContinue reading "Music and the Brain: Cerebral Activity in Patients with Neurological Disorders"

Ontario University Students Assisting The Front Lines During COVID-19

While university communities have made a great impact for relief during this time, the need for help is far from over. Whether it is donating funds and supplies or volunteering,  all efforts — big and small — will have a priceless impact on someone who needs it. Authour: Juliane Feliciano March 13th, 2020 was theContinue reading "Ontario University Students Assisting The Front Lines During COVID-19"