Welcome to the November 2019 issue of ‘Brainstorm’

Brainstorm graphic

“Brainstorm,” a special edition of YFile publishing on the first Friday of every month, showcases research and innovation at York University. It offers compelling and accessible feature-length stories about the world-leading and policy-relevant work of York’s academics and researchers across all disciplines and Faculties and encompasses both pure and applied research.

In the November 2019 issue

Empowering the powerless: Q-and-A with acclaimed filmmaker Patrick Alcedo
With two well-received documentaries under his belt, Professor Patrick Alcedo has proven his ability to tell an evocative and unforgettable story. He sits down with “Brainstorm” to talk about his documentaries, which showcase Filipino culture, empower the underprivileged and, in his own words, “grip the heart.” Read full story.

Landmark dental care study in Indigenous population shows failures in system
A new study led by a Canada Graduate Scholar at York U reveals that more than one quarter of Indigenous people go to the dentist only for emergencies. This underscores the pressing need for the Federal government to better tailor programs for this population. Read full story.

Pioneering iron research has application in heart health and diabetes
A biology professor and York Research Chair undertook a compelling study on iron overload and insulin that could inform future approaches to heart health and diabetes, ultimately improving patients’ health outcomes. York U is leading in this area of research. Read full story.

Osgoode prof finds refugee determinations in Canada woefully subjective
New research shows that decisions around Federal Court applications for judicial review of refugee determinations depend on which judge decides the case. Much needs to be done, and one York U professor has offered up a compelling list of recommendations for enhancing fairness in the process. Read full story.

Urbanization article sums up existing thought, poses vital questions
The director of the City Institute at York University unpacks some critical debates in urbanization in a timely new article that will be of interest to many: academics in disciplines ranging from sociology and economics to geography and environmental studies; urban planners; and government stakeholders at all three levels. Read full story.

Launched in January 2017, “Brainstorm” is produced out of the Office of the Vice-President Research & Innovation in partnership with Communications & Public Affairs; overseen by Megan Mueller, senior manager, research communications; and edited by Jenny Pitt-Clark, YFile editor, Ashley Goodfellow Craig, YFile deputy editor, and Lindsay MacAdam, communications officer.