The Ontario Science Centre and the Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute of Mount Sinai Hospital present:
Stem Cell Cures: Are we there yet? (view the poster)
Experts:
- Dr. Janet Rossant - Principal Investigator, Developmental & Stem Cell Biology, Chief of Research, The Hospital for Sick Children
- Ubaka Ogbogu - Doctoral Candidate, Faculty of Law, University of Toronto
- Dr.Ian Rogers - Associate Scientist, Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute
This cafe is a collaborative effort involving: Stem Cell Network, Training Program in Regenerative Medicine, the Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute of Mount Sinai Hospital, and the Ontario Science Centre, with generous support from Canadian Institutes of Health Research.
Thursday, March 4 2010, 6 - 8pm
Duke of York Original Pub (39 Prince Arthur Ave. Toronto)
Ontario Science Centre's Cafe Scientifique presents:
Did I really do that? The Neuroscience of Free Will
What does it mean to have free will? To be self aware? Are these really traits which can only be attributed to humans or are other species capable of self awareness and true free will? If you've ever wondered about the latest brain research on why we do what we do - this is the cafe scientifique for you!
Experts:
- Jonathan Downar MD PhD - Dept of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Research Scientist, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
- other experts to be confirmed
Saturday, February 20th, 2010
4pm - 6pm
Free.
The Rivoli, 334 Queen St. W.
Ontario Science Centre's Cafe Scientifique presents:
Copenhagen Hangover: Is there anything we haven't heard about climate change? (view the poster)
Think that you've heard everything about climate change as a result of the recent Copenhagen talks?
We have heard some of the bad news - climate change is causing environmental damage, a reduction in biodiversity, and leading us to the brink of an energy crisis. Is there more bad news? What about the conflict that environmental change can bring? Could climate change trigger war? The creation of new country borders?
Is there any good news? Does climate change really have the potential to alter societal behaviour and lead to the development of new technologies?
Come out to the Cafe and take an opportunity to mull over a few potential social, economic and political repercussions which you may not have considered before!
Experts:
Cleo Paskal - Associate Fellow, Energy, Environment and Development Programme, Chatham House UK
Doug MacDonald - Senior Lecturer, Centre for Environment, University of Toronto
L.D. Danny Harvey - Professor, Dept. of Geography, University of Toronto
Saturday, January 16th, 2010
4pm - 6pm
Free.
The Rivoli, 334 Queen St. W.
CIHR CAFÉ SCIENTIFIQUE PRESENTS
The Genetics of Mental Health (view the poster)
As with many diseases, mental health disorders can run in families, suggesting that genetics plays a role. In recent years, scientists have made substantial progress in identifying the genetic and environmental forces contributing to mental health. This research has changed the traditional understanding of the origin of mental illness.
What is the current knowledge of genetics and mental health disorders, and what does the future seem likely to hold? Will the fundamental causes of schizophrenia, autism, mental health illnesses and other developmental disabilities be uncovered in the next decade? Will there be genetic testing for such disorders? What are the ethical issues that will need to be addressed? Does genetics hold the promise of improved treatment?
Space is limited, so please RSVP: cafescientifique@cihr-irsc.gc.ca
Please join us for refreshments and a lively discussion about the latest health research evidence related to this issue. This event is presented by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and its Institute of Genetics, in partnership with the Mental Health Commission of Canada.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009, 7 p.m.
Gladstone Hotel
1214 Queen St. W., Toronto, Ontario
(corner of Gladstone Ave. and Queen St., just east of Dufferin St.)
LE CAFÉ SCIENTIFIQUE DES IRSC PRÉSENTE
Génétique et santé mentale
Comme c’est le cas pour de nombreuses maladies, les troubles mentaux touchent parfois plus d’un membre d’une même famille, laissant entendre qu’ils sont d’origine génétique. Ces dernières années, les scientifiques ont accompli des progrès remarquables au chapitre de l’identification des facteurs génétiques et environnementaux contribuant à la santé mentale.
Cette recherche a changé les connaissances traditionnelles sur l’origine de la maladie mentale. Où en sont les connaissances actuelles sur la génétique et les troubles mentaux, et qu’est-ce que l’avenir nous réserve? Au cours des dix prochaines années, découvrira-t-on les causes fondamentales de la schizophrénie, de l’autisme, de maladies mentales et d’autres déficiences sur le plan du développement? Des tests génétiques seront-ils mis au point pour déceler ces maladies? Sur quels enjeux éthiques faudra-t-il se pencher? La génétique laisse-t-elle entrevoir un traitement meilleur?
Comme le nombre de places est limité, vous êtes priés de confirmer votre présence par courriel à :cafescientifique@irsc-cihr.gc.ca
Joignez-vous à nous pour une discussion animée sur les plus récentes recherches en santé à ce sujet. Des rafraîchissements seront servis à l’occasion de ce café scientifique, présenté par les Instituts de recherche en santé du Canada et leur Institut de génétique, en partenariat avec la Commission de la santé mentale du Canada.
Les présentations seront en anglais seulement.
Le mardi 24 novembre 2009, 19 h
Hôtel Gladstone
1214, rue Queen Ouest, Toronto (Ontario)
(au coin de l’av. Gladstone et de la rue Queen, juste à l’est de Dufferige]
Ontario Science Centre's Cafe Scientifique presents:
We have created a myriad of different kinds of technologies to make our lives easier and better.
Is it working, or are we creating devices and tools that reduce our potential by making us lazy and dependant?
In order to keep up with the pace of modern life, many people feel the need to use a variety of multimedia devices, drive a vehicle to get around town, be constantly accessible via phone and email, and eat processed foods. What about recent studies on the effect of TV on the development of young minds? Are we retraining ourselves through our use of technology? What do you think? Got an opinion?
EXPERTS:
- Mark Federman - Doctoral researcher at OISE, University of Toronto
- Bryan Karney - Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Environmental Section, University of Toronto
Join experts and other inquiring minds for drinks, discussion and debate.
Saturday, November 21st, 2009
4pm - 6pm
Free.
The Rivoli, 334 Queen St. W.
CIHR CAFÉ SCIENTIFIQUE PRESENTS
From the Playground to HIV: If risks for gay men start early, when should prevention begin? (view the poster)
We know the statistics are grim: gay men suffer from one of the highest rates of HIV infection of any population. But do we really understand the reasons why? It may be about more than just sex. In fact, there is growing evidence that increased HIV risk begins with the bullying and homophobia that many young gay men experience in school and at home.
What’s the connection between homophobia, mental health and HIV risk? What can we do to eliminate negative attitudes towards gay men? And how can we help young gay men protect themselves against the destructive effects of homophobia? Join us to share your thoughts and hear what experts in HIV/AIDS and mental health have to say.
Space is limited, so please RSVP: Angela.Whelan@cihr-irsc.gc.ca
This free event is presented by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, its Institute of Infection and Immunity and The Ontario HIV Treatment Network, in partnership with the Mental Health Commission of Canada.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009, 7 p.m.
Gardiner Museum, Terrace Room
111 Queen’s Park,
Toronto, Ontario
CIHR Cafe Scientifique presents:
Engaging the Public in Pandemic Flu Planning and Response
Public engagement in planning and response is important to ensure effective and appropriate emergency response. However, there has traditionally been a lack of public involvement in government planning and decision-making about public health emergencies.
Pandemic H1N1 influenza presents challenges and also opportunities. In this session, we will consider how to best communicate and engage with the public during this outbreak.
Experts:
- Dr. Julia Abelson - Associate Professor, Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics McMaster University, Director, Centre for Health Economics and Health Policy
- Dr. Natasha Crowcroft - Director of Surveillance and Epidemiology,Ontario Agency for Health Protection and Promotion
- Dr. Ross Upshur - Director of the Joint Centre for Bioethics,University of Toronto
Moderator:
- Dr. Michael Gardam - Director of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Ontario Agency for Health Protection and Promotion
Monday November 16, 5:30 to 7:30 pm
Gladstone Hotel Ballroom
1214 Queen Street West, Toronto
CIHR Cafe Scientifique presents:
Understanding Influenza Through the Media
With the influenza season in full swing, the general public has been hearing and reading a lot about the H1N1 influenza pandemic, seasonal influenza, and the influenza vaccines through various media outlets. Although the media covers these issues frequently, coverage is rarely comprehensive, often leaving people feeling confused, overwhelmed, and looking for more information.
We’ll attempt to break the many myths and misconceptions about influenza and provide up to date information about the H1N1 influenza pandemic and the influenza vaccines. We will talk about how the media covers news about influenza and discuss new and upcoming research.
Please join us in this edition of Café Scientifique for an interactive and lively discussion
Experts:
- Dr. Jeff Kwong - Scientist, Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences (ICES)
- Dr. Michael Evans - Scientist, St. Michael’s Hospital
- Dr. Cecile Bensimon - Bioethicist, University of Toronto
Moderator:
- Maureen Taylor, National Health and Medical Reporter, CBC
Thursday, November 12 2009 5:30-7:30pm
The Duke of York Pub
39 Prince Arthur Avenue, Toronto
Please RSVP: atong@mtsinai.on.ca
CIHR CAFÉ SCIENTIFIQUE PRESENTS
The stranger in the mirror – Is it time to change the way we view eating disorders? (view the poster)
When people with eating disorders look in the mirror, they do not see their own reflection. They see a version of themselves distorted by fear, anxiety and unrealistic expectations. This distortion is so powerful that it can drown out hunger and pain. It is a form of mental illness that holds the body hostage. How can we recognize and address the underlying problems that trigger disordered eating in women and a growing number of men?
Join us to share your thoughts and hear the latest research evidence from experts in eating disorder prevention. The conversation will begin with the screening of a short film, Alice or Life in Black and White, by Canadian filmmaker Sophie Schoukens.
Space is limited, so please RSVP: 416-978-1315 or alexandra.novis@sickkids.ca
This free event is presented by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and its Institute of Nutrition, Metabolism and Diabetes, in partnership with the Mental Health Commission of Canada and in conjunction with the Rendezvous with Madness Film Festival.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009, 5 p.m.
Workman Arts
651 Dufferin Street,
Toronto, Ontario
CIHR CAFÉ SCIENTIFIQUE PRESENTS
Stranger in a Strange Land: How does immigration impact on mental health? (view the poster)
What happens when travel is not a fun escape from the daily grind, but a necessity? When, for economic, political or security reasons, one decides to make a home and find employment in a new country? Adapting to a new country, learning a new language and being separated from family can create significant strain. Employment circumstances may be stressful when jobs are low-paid or temporary. And, some refugees may be coping with post-traumatic stress. With all the challenges of being “new” to Canada, how do immigrants and refugees get help with mental health concerns?
Space is limited, so please RSVP: cafescientifique@cihr-irsc.gc.ca
Please join us for refreshments and a lively discussion about the latest health research evidence and community perspectives on this issue. This event is presented by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and its Institute of Population and Public Health, in partnership with the Public Health Agency of Canada and the Mental Health Commission of Canada.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009, 7 p.m.
Gladstone Hotel (North Ballroom)
1214 Queen Street W.,
Ontario Science Centre's Cafe Scientifique presents:
Making biofuel from crops: Food for thought? (view the poster)
Curious about the technology involved in biofuels? Is it really effective? Think biofuel affects gas prices and food policy?
Join in the discussion over a coffee or beer with science experts
Guest experts:
- Jim Grey -- CEO of IGPC Ethanol Inc.
- Emma Master, Ph.D. -- Assistant Professor, Dept. of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry at the University of Toronto.
- Grace Skogstad, Ph.D, Professor, Department of Political Science at the University of Toronto.
Saturday, Oct 17th, 2009
4pm. Free.
The Rivoli, 334 Queen St. W.
The Ontario Science Centre and the Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute of Mount Sinai Hospital present:
Pandemics: Are we panicked or prepared?? (view the poster)
In June, 2009, the WHO declared that the world was at the start of a global influenza pandemic. What defines a pandemic, and why do they happen? Are there more epidemic and pandemic scares lately – or is the media blowing things out of proportion? Are we truly ready for the next pandemic – and if so, what do we need to know?
Join our experts in learning about the science of infectious disease, hear about the lessons learned from the past, and discover the preparations being made for the future. As flu season approaches, this is a timely topic to address in our Cafe discussion.
Free.
Experts:
- Allison McGeer, MD – Microbiologist &Infectious Disease Consultant, Mount Sinai Hospital
- Cecile Bensimon Ph.D - Bioethicist at the Joint Centre for Bioethics, University of Toronto
- David J. Howell – President, Associate Marketing International Inc. (owners of the Pandemics 101TM program)
Presented by the Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute of Mount Sinai Hospital and Ontario Science Centre, with generous support from Canadian Institutes of Health Research.
Thursday, October 1 2009, 6 - 8pm
Duke of York Original Pub (39 Prince Arthur Ave. Toronto)
Ontario Science Centre's Cafe Scientifique presents:
Hard Science vs Soft Science: who wins the definition of real science? (view the poster)
Are the "hard", number-crunching sciences such as mathematics and physics more valuable to society than the "softer" qualitative social sciences? Which branches of science are recognized when it comes to securing funds? Is one kind of science more apt to grab the newspaper headlines, or gain more value in the hearts of the general public? Are their scientific methods really that different?
Join in the discussion over a coffee or beer with science experts
Guest experts:
- Fiona Robinson, PhD, -- Biochemist, Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute
- Che Marville -- Social Entrepreneur, Senior Human Resources Advisor for Wellness at the University Health Network and President of the Children's Own Museum.
- Peter Krieger, Ph.D - Associate Professor, Department of Physics, University of Toronto
Saturday, May 9th, 2009
4pm. Free.
The Rivoli, 334 Queen St. W.
Ontario Science Centre's Cafe Scientifique presents:
IQ and EQ and AI: What does it mean to be intelligent, anyways? (view the poster)
Who and what do we consider intelligent? Are there really multiple types of intelligence?
How do IQ tests works? What are the parameters of Intelligence?
Can animals and other life forms be considered intelligent?
Join our experts for drinks, debate and discussion.
Guest Experts:
- Anne Russon Ph.D, Psychology Department, Glendon College,York University
- Juan Pascual-Leone M.D., Ph.D, Psychology Department,York University
- Marc D. Lewis Ph.D, Professor, Department of Human Development & Applied Psychology, Neuroscience Program,University of Toronto
Saturday, April 18, 2009
4pm to 6pm
Free.
The Rivoli, 334 Queen St. W.(just east of Spadina on the North side of the street)
Ontario Science Centre's Cafe Scientifique presents:
What are the chances that understanding statistics can save your life? (view the poster)
Is your mind boggled by all the stats you encounter on a daily basis?
Curious about the science behind predictions in various fields?
Ever wonder about how to use statistics and probability to make your decisions?
Join our experts for drinks, debate, and discussion.
Experts:
- Dr. Mike Molloy - Professor, Dept. of Computer and Mathematical Sciences, University of Toronto
- Dr. Julia Knight - Epidemiologist, Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute of Mount Sinai Hospital
Saturday, March 21st, 2009
4pm to 6pm
Free.
The Rivoli, 334 Queen St. W.(just east of Spadina on the North side of the street)
Click on the topic to view the poster from a previous Café:
2009 Ontario Science Centre Cafe Scientifique Events at the Rivoli
2008 Ontario Science Centre Cafe Scientifique Events at the Rivoli
2008-2009 Ontario Science Centre & Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute Cafe Scientifique Series funded by CIHR
2008-2009 CIHR-funded Cafe Scientifique events in Toronto
2007 Ontario Science Centre Cafe Scientifique Events at the Rivoli
2007-2008 Ontario Science Centre & Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute Cafe Scientifique Series funded by CIHR
2007-2008 CIHR-funded Cafe Scientifique events in Toronto
2006 Ontario Science Centre Cafe Scientifique Events at the Rivoli
- Strings vs Loops: Why can't scientists decide how to quantize gravity? (November 18, 2006)
- Nuclear Energy: Friend or Foe (October 21, 2006)
- Is Creativity Genetic? (September 16, 2006)
- HIV/AIDS: Will science provide the answers? (August 19, 2006)
- Nanotechnology: the ultimate solution? (July 15, 2006)
- The End of Humankind: Will we be conquered by war, disease or the environment? (June 17, 2006)
- Humans as Endangered Species: Will machines make us obsolete? (May 20, 2006)
- The Ultimate Authority: Will science or religion win out? (April 15, 2006)
- Are Humans Just Animals? What makes us so special? (March 18, 2006)
- Does your brain have a gender? Does it determine your behaviour? (February 18, 2006)
- The Fighting Gene: Is war hardwired into our brains? (January 28, 2006)
2005 Ontario Science Centre Cafe Scientifique Events at the Rivoli