FUSIONINK FIRST ISSUE
SCIENCE AND HEALTH
Cell Signaling: Types and Usage
Section Manager/Writer- Warren Lai
In the world of cellular biology, cells live in chunks rather than as individual cells Just like how we communicate through messages, these cells are able to communicate with each other through their own signaling pathways Cell-to-cell communication is critical for the correct survival and function of cells, playing a role in the growth and development of multicellular organisms
Cell Signaling can be broken down into several categories The three main categories are: direct contact, local signaling, and long-distance signaling These three types of signaling are used by different, specialized cells These specialized cells are designed to carry out particular roles in the body, and therefore, use different types of signaling depending on their conditions
Direct Contact
Thisimageshowsamicroscopeviewoftwoconnectedneurons,withdifferentcolorshighlightingthe nucleus blue ,mitochondria red ,andproteinsorsynapticmarkers green ,showinghowbraincells communicate
Direct contact can be defined as communication of cells through their cell junctions The “direct” in the term can be viewed as physically direct, as cells using direct contact communicate through their own cell junctions Different organisms also use different types of cell signaling Plants, for example, communicate through the plasmodesmata in their cell walls while animals use gap junctions to communicate directly In contrast, all cells using direct contact have signaling substances dissolved in the cytoplasm that are able to freely pass through the adjacent cells
Immune cells, a type of specialized cell, utilize antigen-presenting cells (APCs) to communicate with T cells using direct contact Direct signaling is crucial for immune cells to elicit a quick response
LocalSignaling
Local signaling can be done through local regulators; a secreting cell releases chemical substances (e g, ligands and local regulators) that travel a short distance to another cell These substances travel through the extracellular fluid to reach other cells that are not in direct contact with them There are two main types of local signaling: paracrine signaling, which is done through exocytosis, and synaptic signaling, which is used in the nervous system
Paracrine signaling can be used in a variety of cells as it is more general Secretory cells release local regulators (e g, growth factors) Paracrine signaling is an example of exocytosis, where cells release substances to the outside of the cell The target cell, or the cell receiving the substance, is able to react based on the cellular response it elicits
Synaptic signaling is specific to neurons and the nervous system In animals, specifically, neurons secrete neurotransmitters into the synaptic gap, diffusing across the synapse to the target neuron This can create an excitatory or inhibitory response in the target cell
Long-Distance Signaling
Long-distance signaling is present throughout animal and plant cells This process is done through the secretion of hormones In plants, the cells release hormones that travel through the vascular tissue to reach target cells In contrast, animal cells release hormones through a process called endocrine signaling
Specialized cells will release hormones that circulate through the circulatory system to target cells in various parts of the body Insulin transport can use long-distance signaling
Insulin is released by the pancreas into the bloodstream, where it can travel to target cells
Insulin can regulate the blood glucose levels throughout the body
Signal Transduction Pathway
Cell signaling can be divided into 3 main parts: reception, transduction, and response
Reception is when the ligand binds to the receptor This binding mechanism is highly selective, regulating cellular response expression When the ligand binds to the receptor, the receptor activates through a conformational change
Transduction is when the signal is converted and amplified through several proteins There are two main types of enzymes used in signal transduction: protein kinase and protein phosphatase Protein kinases can add a phosphate group to amplify the signal, whereas protein phosphatases can stop the pathway by dephosphorylating
Response is when the final molecule in the signaling pathway converts the signal amplified through the proteins to elicit a cellular response This response will alter a cellular process These changes can result in changes to gene expression and cell function
Cell-to-cell communication is crucial to the cell's function and survival
These, which are utilized by specialized cells, are crucial to the communication between cells, creating a cell signal that can alter pathways and processes
Black Holes: Physics at the Edge of Spacetime
Writer- Syed Zain Aftab
Ahmad
Black holes represent one of the most mysterious and extreme predictions of modern physicsobjects so dense and compact that the very fabric of spacetime is warped beyond recognition These cosmic phenomena, once thought to be theoretical oddities, are now observed across the universe, from the death throes of massive stars to the hearts of galaxies They are formed when gravity overwhelms all other forces The most common route is through the collapse of a massive star at the end of its life When such a star exhausts its nuclear fuel, fusion ceases and the outward pressure that once balanced gravity vanishes The star's core collapses, and if the remaining mass exceeds approximately three times the mass of our Sun, not even neutron degeneracy pressurenormally responsible for supporting neutron stars-can halt the collapse The result is a stellar-mass black hole, typically ranging from three to ten solar masses Depending on the star's initial mass and metallicity, the collapse may be accompanied by a spectacular supernova explosion, or it might occur silently in a direct collapse
Direct Contact
collapse of massive primordial gas clouds, the merger of stellar remnants in dense clusters, or the growth of smaller "seed" black holes via accretion and galactic collisions There is also the speculative notion of primordial black holes-objects that may have formed from density fluctuations in the very early universe, milliseconds after the Big Bang
Once formed, black holes are described mathematically by solutions to Einstein's general theory of relativity The simplest of these is the Schwarzschild black hole, representing a non-rotating, uncharged, spherically symmetric mass Its defining feature is the event horizon, a spherical boundary beyond which no signal or object can escape The radius of this horizon, known as the Schwarzschild radius, depends solely on the mass of the black hole and marks the point where escape velocity equals the speed of light From the perspective of an external observer, any object falling into a black hole appears to slow down as it approaches the event horizon, asymptotically freezing in time due to the extreme gravitational time dilation
Close to a black hole, time and space are no longer distinct Light emitted from near the horizon is infinitely redshifted, and spacetime becomes so warped that all paths, even those of photons, curve inward If a black hole is rotating-a more realistic scenario-it is described by the Kerr metric Rotating black holes possess not only an event horizon but also an ergosphere, a region outside the horizon where spacetime is dragged along with the rotation In the ergosphere, no object can remain at rest, and theoretically, energy can be extracted via processes like the Penrose mechanism Charged black holes, modeled by the Reissner-Nordström or Kerr-Newman solutions, have additional complexities, including multiple horizons and, potentially, access to other regions of spacetime or even "wormholes"-though these remain speculative
The singularity is hidden from the universe by the event horizon-a situation protected, in theory, by the cosmic censorship conjecture, which asserts that singularities cannot be naked but must be concealed within horizons Black holes also intersect with quantum mechanics, leading to some of the most profound puzzles in physics
At the center of every classical black hole lies a singularity, a point of infinite density and zero volume where the curvature of spacetime diverges Here, our current physical theories break down
Beyond stellar death, black holes can also form when two neutron stars spiral into one another and merge-a process detected through gravitational wave observations like GW170817 In some cases, black holes are born in binary systems where a compact object accretes matter from a companion star, eventually exceeding the mass threshold for collapse Much larger black holes, known as supermassive black holes, reside at the centers of galaxies and can have masses ranging from millions to billions of solar masses Their formation remains an active area of research, with theories suggesting they may have originated from the direct
In 1974, Stephen Hawking showed that black holes are not entirely black-they emit thermal radiation due to quantum effects near the horizon This Hawking radiation arises from the creation of particle-antiparticle pairs in vacuum fluctuations; one particle falls into the black hole, while the other escapes, effectively reducing the black hole's mass The black hole has a finite temperature inversely proportional to its mass, and over immense timescales, it can evaporate completely This discovery introduced the black hole information paradox: if information falls into a black hole and the hole later evaporates, is that information lost forever, violating the principles of quantum mechanics?
To resolve such paradoxes, modern theories propose radical ideas The holographic principle suggests that all the information contained within a black hole's volume might be encoded on its surface area, a concept related to entropy and quantum gravity The AdS/CFT correspondence from string theory offers a mathematical realization of this idea, equating gravity in a higher-dimensional "bulk" space with a quantum field theory on its lowerdimensional boundary Other proposals, like black hole firewalls, posit that the event horizon might not be smooth, but instead a region of violent quantum activity
EDITOR-IN- CHIEF: PAIGE HO
FUSIONINK FIRST ISSUE
Chemistry of Love
Co-Editor/Writer- Mariam Kodzakhidze
Direct Contact
Love is the most powerful force in the whole wide world, it can sweep even the strongest person off their feet and make them levitate over cloud nine But, as a shrewd human once said: with great power comes great danger; actually, nobody has ever said that other than me, so I guess I am pretty wise Love can truly kill you Just remember the tragic ending of the most beloved couple in the history of English literature, Romeo and Juliet, the sacrifice they made for one another is truly selfless, gullible, and somewhat dumb as well, but is it not organic? When you love a person, some weird dwarf gets inside your brain and that little thing’s only job is to constantly badger you with the thoughts of your new sweetheart, as a matter of fact, that diminutive imp nags you so much that you do not have any free space to think about anything else, but your darling The last paragraph was for when a child asks you about love, what it is, and how it affects your life A tiny recommendation: maybe leave out the killing and Shakespeare’s iconic love story if you ever decide to define love to a kid Now, let’s get into the bigger leagues So, what is love? Love is a neurochemical process involving a balance of neurotransmitters and hormones, so it is just as much a medical condition as a high fever The chemistry of love is the term used to elucidate all the hidden secrets that are behind the curtains when we decide to play the main lead in a very cute play about the people, who were courageous enough to crash land in love Chemistry of love refers to the mixed cocktail feelings one might experience whilst entering the crucial, but enchanting realm of adoration
Do you remember how I mentioned little troll-like creatures whose domiciles become our heads sooner or later in life? Some gnomes just have this irresistible, undeniable main-character energy, and I am glad to be able to present them to you:
First Kelpie choosing your mind as its destination for a “ vacay ” is Attraction, aka The Crush Stage Now this is the stage when a single glance from the chosen one has you giggling, blushing, and kicking your feet, this is the stage when the butterflies start to occur Ipso facto, those mesmerizing, alluring insects are not real, they are the illusion of our hormones, which I like to call traits of the phases Allow me to present them to you:
1 Dopamine: the “reward” chemical Activates the moment we are in the presence of the person we are attracted to Dopamine is our certified bestie because it supports our delusions by motivating us and making us feel the pleasure of our love interest’s company
2 Norepinephrine: Now, this is the kind of friend that you would not want around your crush This hormone persistently reminds you of your beloved and makes your heart beat faster and faster every time you see them In extreme cases, your palms might get sweaty, or you may lose consciousness
3 Serotonin: This one is the slyest of them all Serotonin is the friend who keeps quiet most of the time, but when the moment comes, it floods you with whispers about your crush; when you feel affection towards a person, the levels of this hormone drop, and that explains the obsessive thoughts about the object of your desires
The second main-lead is Attachment, aka The Bonding Phase This is a stage when you finally gather the courage to talk to them
At this point, you just start to share everything that you want to know about each other, but be cautious, because the “delulu” bestie of yours (Dopamine) might make you blind, and you could start over-shearing The rudimentary traits of this phase are:
1 Oxytocin: the "cuddle hormone " This hormone is released when you awkwardly hold hands for the first time and realize that you are not the only one nervous around here The release of this hormone fills you with trust in your partner
2 Vasopressin: This is the endocrine that encourages long-term attachment and attraction towards the romantic interest The release of this hormone is the reason behind the monogamy in most species of mammals, including humans Vasopressin is also responsible for protective and loyal behavior towards the significant other
3 Endorphins: These are the natural painkillers that provide security and tranquility When this hormone is released, the main lead is poking your brain with the needle that has the words: “I feel like I’m safe, comfortable, and important – so why not? Let’s keep them close” engraved to it
It is right that love is the feeling of the gods and the start of everything great, but it is also a chemical reaction happening through your body So, next time you feel confused about whether or not they are the one, you just stop talking, thinking, and moving and listen to your body because it will give you hints about what you are truly feeling: are you caught up in a moment, desperate for someone to love you or are you truly becoming the person who is ready to fall inside the rabbit hole to find their Wonderland
This image shows the chemical structure of oxytocin, a hormone known as the love hormone becauseithelpswithbonding,trust,andemotionalconnection
EDITOR-IN- CHIEF:
MIND AND SOCIETY
Wearable Technology
Section Manager/Writer - Ananya N
Wearable technology has emerged as one of the most significant innovations in personal health and everyday convenience in recent years Inspired by my recent experiences where my team ranked among the top 10 regionally and top 50 globally in a prestigious competition it is clear that wearable devices are transforming how we interact with technology
Once seen as a novelty, devices like fitness trackers and smartwatches have now become integral to daily life Yet a critical question arises: is wearable technology merely a passing trend, or has it evolved into a global necessity?
Wearable technology perfectly combines innovation with comfort, and several factors have fueled its rapid growth In today’s healthconscious world, wearable devices have become reliable partners, helping users track steps, monitor heart rates, and stay hydrated, offering useful insights that support wellness goals Meanwhile, advancements in technology have made gadgets increasingly intelligent and surprisingly practical Tiny sensors now measure everything from blood oxygen levels to sleep patterns, making these devices not only highly functional but also widely accessible Everyday convenience has also played a major role Just imagine checking a message or answering a call simply by looking at your wrist wearable tech fits seamlessly into busy schedules, making life easier with minimal effort
To explore the future of wearable technology, it is important to understand both sides of the debate Some argue that wearable tech could be a passing trend due to market
saturation With the market flooded by a plethora of devices, consumers may feel overwhelmed As newer iterations and shiny features continue to roll out, users may become fatigued, seeing little difference between models Additionally, narrow use cases pose a challenge While many devices are focused on fitness tracking, others that explore broader health and wellness applications may still seem limited to consumers, leading to reduced long-term engagement
Privacy concerns also present a significant barrier Since wearable devices collect extensive personal data, issues surrounding data security may prevent some users from adopting this technology fully
On the other hand, there are strong arguments that wearable technology is becoming a global necessity Health monitoring stands at the forefront of this case Wearable devices are increasingly valuable in managing chronic conditions, with continuous data collection enabling early detection of health problems and timely intervention The rising popularity of telemedicine also highlights the critical role of wearables As global health challenges continue, the ability to monitor patients remotely reduces the need for in-person visits and enhances healthcare accessibility
Moreover, wearable technology encourages active lifestyles
Many users embrace these devices as tools to adopt healthier habits, including better exercise routines, improved nutrition, and more mindful sleep patterns
My participation in an international case study competition on wearable technology provided valuable insight into the industry's evolving landscape It became clear that smaller companies can challenge innovative giants by focusing on creativity and user-centric design a necessity for standing out in an increasingly saturated market The competition revealed how healthand fitness-focused gadgets are driving market trends and shaping consumer expectations, creating a cycle where innovation remains central to success
Wearable technology promises improvements in both health and convenience, and its future appears bright While some may dismiss it as a passing trend, the sustained emphasis on wellness management, remote monitoring capabilities, and lifestyle benefits suggests that wearable technology is here to stay The ultimate fate of wearable technology will depend on continued innovation, active user engagement, and society’s collective willingness to integrate technology more deeply into daily life What is certain, however, is that wearable tech has sparked vital conversations about health, wellness, and personal empowerment that cannot and should not be ignored
EDITOR-IN- CHIEF: PAIGE HO
FUSIONINK FIRST ISSUE
Misinformation in Digital Age
Co-Editor/Writer- Abdul Ahad
Misinformation, the unintentional spread of false information, weakens communication platforms and societal trust Its effects may not be immediately visible but often accumulate, harming rationality and stability For instance, a false claim about a miracle cure during a health crisis can influence behavior and policy even after being corrected
Under Kant’s (2012) principle of rational autonomy, individuals are obligated to act in ways that respect universal rationality and truth By this logic, a society that allows the unchecked spread of misinformation fails to support this principle Similarly, digital platforms and governments justify their structures as instruments to empower individuals through information
Direct Contact
Kant’s categorical imperative says that actions must be universalizable and rational When speaking of misinformation, this principle is violated For example: false claims about hydroxychloroquine acting as a cure for COVID-19 spread throughout the world and was amplified by social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook These claims led to hoarding, shortages and delayed treatments for those in genuine need If such behavior were universalized, trust in medical systems would collapse leading to ineffective healthcare [1] [2] Kant acknowledges humanity’s tendency to make exceptions for self-preservation This helps in explaining that altruistic people share misinformation unintentionally as they do not deeply evaluate the content they are sharing, believing instead that
Thisimageshowstwopeopleusingdigitaldevicestoshareopinionsandemotionsonline,symbolizing howsocialmediaspreadsbothpositiveandnegativecontentacrossconnectednetworks
their actions may have a positive impact
This was seen during COVID-19 as people would share unverified health claims as an attempt to “help” others and this is a cultural trait in the country of Nigeria This contradiction reflects failure to support collective rationality and increases societal confusion [1]
The risks extend beyond individual actions Misinformation weakens already stressed public health systems during crises It reduces trust in experts and causes vaccine hesitancy, often fueled by misconceptions, fear of side effects, and lack of awareness A notable example of vaccine hesitancy is the false claim that the MMR vaccine causes autism [3] Although this claim was later retracted, it led to widespread hesitancy, causing eruptions of preventable diseases like measles [1]
The effects of misinformation extend to democratic systems as well; in systems where trust and truth are foundational In the 2020 U S presidential elections, baseless claims of voter fraud spread rapidly, enlarged by social media platforms for engagement These claims broke public confidence in electoral processes and were a major cause for the January 6 capitol riot, that clearly shows misinformation’s capacity to incite real-world harm [4]
Foucault’s concept of power-knowledge (1977) critiques that; social media platforms, while presenting themselves as conveyors of information, have great power by shaping what users see and believe. Algorithms designed for maximum engagement fundamentally prioritize sensationalism: making them perfect for spreading misinformation Foucault might argue that these platforms act as modern disciplinary systems, controlling public awareness under the
appearance of empowerment
Foucault’s concept of governmentality (1990) shows how modern governance operates by guiding individuals through indirect means rather than obvious control In the digital era, social media platforms act as mechanisms of “conduct of conduct,” as said before, they prioritize engagement and shape behavior These systems amplify misinformation and exploit Foucault’s idea where he states, governance often works within a “field of possibilities” structured by power An example is, the Italian government during COVID-19, encouraged obedience to mobility restrictions through public appeals and incentives rather than strict enforcement They believed that individuals would govern themselves responsibly However, this led to vaccine myths and false health claims and many mobs would riot against staying inside, hence misinformation grew and users reinterpreted and manipulated information [5]
Locke’s social contract theory (1967) asserts that the main role of governance is to protect individuals’ rights, which includes the right to access truth and make correct decisions For Locke, individuals consent to governance because it helps preserve such rights And now, this is applied to digital platforms and governments as well, which are entrusted with keeping the flow of reliable information safe When misinformation flows unchecked, these systems fail to protect the society, violating the social contract
EDITOR-IN- CHIEF: PAIGE HO
FUSIONINK FIRST ISSUE
The Vanishing Playground: How Screens Are Replacing Childhood
Writer- Rubaiya Tas-mim Medha
The laughter heard throughout the neighborhood, the day spent playing in the field, and the dirt underneath my fingernails are memories which are ingrained into my mind Childhood was all about friendship, shared snacks, scraped knees, and more Back then, it was messy but vibrant and mostly, human In this era, what is more common for children is an obsession with climbing screens and swiping digits rather than fingers Running is out of the picture, and typing is becoming the new norm Children are being blamed for not exploring the outdoors but the reality is that they are born into a digital world which is worshipped Research indicates that in this modern world, children tend to wholly or partially indulge in at least 4 to 7 hours of screen time which is a complete ‘no-go’ when it comes to the outdoors Interpersonal interaction is out of the question, and problem-solving skills? Resilience? Forget about it! Which in turn leads to attention disorders, depression, and escalated mental health issues It is clear to see the reason why it is so difficult to find peace in silence and a good charming view The use of screens provides effortless satisfaction and endless amusement Despite these conveniences, screens cannot substitute for the growth that comes from connecting with another human being through touch, playing team sports, or relaxing underneath the sky It is now apparent that a variety of children struggle with social skills and having empathy, not due to apathy, but rather for lack of opportunity
I'm deeply concerned If these children do not learn to interact in the physical world, what kind of adults will they turn into? I am not completely adverse to technology It provides us with beautiful teachings, and helps us connect Balance is the most important thing though Where there is technology, there is also mud, music, and need for messy conversations Blank space is a necessity in order for one to be able to imagine There is a dire need for the absence of restrictions that come with “likes” and “comments ” As a collective society, it's time to rethink our approach toward the upbringing of the future generation Parents can manage how much screen time a child has Schools can bring back the recess periods Tech free sanitized zones can be provided by the community Most importantly, calculated society needs to prioritize life that is rooted in convenience over modern society Adulthood is something that cannot be navigated through swiping Once lost, childhood can never be brought back
EDITOR-IN- CHIEF:
FUSIONINK FIRST ISSUE
BUSINESS AND IDEAS
Harvard Sues President Donald Trump
Section Manager/Writer- Sarah Tagima
The administration of the President of the United States of America, Donald Trump, demanded changes at multiple universities such as Columbia University, Cornell University, Northwestern University, University of Pennsylvania, Brown University, Princeton University and Harvard University If the universities failed to fulfill his demands, he would freeze or cease the allocation of federal funds A well-known university that gave in to the President’s demands was Columbia University, who had over $400 million revoked on funds, however, Harvard University decided to go against Trump’s policies and gave up over $9 billion dollars
Trump has imposed several rules/threats to Harvard, the most notorious ones were:
Elimination of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Programs
Adoption of Merit-Based
Admissions and Hiring Practices
Audit of Campus Community
Viewpoints
Ban on Face Masks During Protests
Review and Reform of Academic Departments
Deregistration of Certain Student Organizations
Disclosure of Foreign Student Information
Threat to Tax-Exempt Status
Suspension of Federal Funding
The respective $9 billion includes $256 million in research support, $8 7 billion in future commitments with the university, $60 million in future contracts and another $2 2 billion that were frozen from federal funds that were supposed to be destined to Harvard
The freezing of federal funds and threat to tax-exempt status were not the only consequences that Harvard University could face Due to protests that were happening involving Harvard students expressing their opinions and chearing for a ceasefire in Gaza, Trump accused Harvard of not doing a good job on protecting Jew students and alleged that Harvard was being tolerant with antisemitic speeches In response to that, Trump started to target International students Since accusations of antisemitism in protests were prominent, Trump demanded Harvard to provide the American government with data from all international students enrolled at Harvard with private information including their names, visa type, and what they are studying The administration of Trump warned the university that if they did not cooperate with them, they could lose their ability to sponsor student visas which would mean that thousands of international students might be forced to leave the university Harvard refused, saying this would violate student privacy and academic freedom
In conclusion, while several universities chose to comply with Trump’s demands to avoid losing federal funding, Harvard University opted to stand by its values Despite the potential loss of over $9 billion and the freezing of billions in future funding, Harvard refused to compromise its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as its dedication to academic freedom
The university emphasized that, as a private institution, it has the right to govern itself independently and make decisions without external political interference Harvard also rejected the demand to release private information about its international students, citing concerns about student privacy and the protection of academic freedom This conflict raised important questions about the balance between government influence and the autonomy of educational institutions
Ultimately, Harvard’s decision to resist these pressures reinforced its stance that protecting its core values and independence was more important than securing federal funding By doing so, the university made it clear that its commitment to education, free from political control, would not be sacrificed
EDITOR-IN- CHIEF: PAIGE HO
FUSIONINK FIRST ISSUE
Is Ethical Fast Fashion Possible? Why Young Consumers May Hold the Answer
Writer- Vy Nguyen
It started, as it often does, with a haul video
Sitting cross-legged on her bedroom floor, 18-year-old Mai Tran hit record
Behind her was a stack of plasticwrapped packages Her latest order from Shein has just arrived At 18, she's become somewhat of a microinfluencer in our hometown, and her latest Shein haul video was already climbing toward 40,000 views in less than 24 hours
Her caption read: “Spent less than $200 for a whole new wardrobe What do you guys think? #Haul #AffordableFashion #OOTD” As I watched from halfway across the world, she unveiled over 20 items in under 4 minutes: new crop tops, wide-leg cargo pants, and miniature handbags smaller than her phone
What struck me wasn't just the volume but the disconnect Here was Mai, living in Vietnam, one of the global epicenters of garment manufacturing, celebrating ultra-cheap fashion without recognizing that she has been sold back finished products made by millions of Vietnamese employed at poverty wages through slick marketing and algorithmic recommendations When I messaged her about who made her clothes, she replied: "I care, but sustainable brands cost five times more My part-time job barely covers bubble tea, let alone $25 T-shirts " Her response captures young consumers' dilemma: awareness without accessibility
The Hidden Costs of Convenience
According to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, the fashion industry generates 92 million tons of waste annually and contributes 10% of global carbon emissions, even more than international flights and shipping combined These numbers have accelerated with ultra-fast fashion platforms that deliver designs in days, not weeks
As Sass Brown, author of ECO Fashion, puts it: “Cheap fashion is really far from that, it may be cheap in terms of the financial cost, but very expensive when it comes to the environment and the cost of human life ”
Millions of tons of textile waste end up in landfills every year, much of it nonbiodegradable Garment workers, mostly women in Southeast Asia, South Asia, and Africa, are often paid less than $4 a day, working in unsafe factories with little to no labor protections That’s barely enough to cover daily meals, let alone rent, healthcare, or education Many work in unsafe factories, racing to meet production targets for brands they’ll never afford themselves
The Economic Trap
Tonlé, a zero-waste fashion brand with production in Cambodia, illustrates sustainable fashion's core challenge According to their website and Instagram, they use reclaimed materials to promote a circular economy
"Our $45 tops and $75 dresses represent the true cost of ethical production," founder Rachel Faller explained
It tried to bridge the affordability gap by offering customers a “pay-whatyou-can ” option, letting them choose between full price or discounted rates
But even with that model, they couldn’t survive In 2023, Tonlé temporarily went out of business and has not relaunched since, citing the financial strain of competing in a system that rewards low prices over ethical production
The irony is stark: Clothing made ethically in Southeast Asia is often too expensive for local consumers And when a company actually attempts to lower the price, it goes out of business The reason lies in the business model Fast fashion keeps prices low by externalizing costs, meaning pushing environmental damage and worker exploitation out of sight and out
of mind Sustainable production, by contrast, internalizes those costs: fair wages, ethical sourcing, and smallbatch manufacturing aren’t cheap Clearly, producing high-quality, durable clothing often comes at a higher price point, which is a barrier for younger consumers seeking affordable options
Can Fast Fashion Ever Be Ethical?
Ten years after the Rana Plaza factory collapse in Bangladesh, one of the deadliest industrial disasters in history, brands like H&M, Zara, and Shein continue to profit from the very system that made that tragedy possible
Despite public commitments from brands like H&M, including signing safety accords, introducing organic collections, and banning controversial animal products, these moves only scratch the surface An article by David S Waller and Helen J Waller highlights a fundamental tension: while ethical initiatives may soften the blow, the model’s core still relies on speed, volume, and costcutting Many of the fundamental problems persist; they've simply moved to different factories or countries with even less regulatory oversight
Until the industry rethinks its reliance on overproduction and the rapid obsolescence of clothing, ethical fast fashion remains a paradox - possible in appearance, perhaps, but rarely in substance
The Real Battle Is Bigger Than Your Shopping Cart
Here’s the uncomfortable truth: even the greenest product won’t fix an industry built on selling more than we need Labels like “eco-friendly” or “climate neutral” don’t mean much if the system still profits from overproduction and overconsumption Even conscientious shoppers exist within systems designed for volume over
EDITOR-IN- CHIEF: PAIGE HO
FUSIONINK FIRST ISSUE
people and planet The Stanford Social Innovation Review highlights this problem, noting that companies often "turn to the consumer to fund sustainability" while maintaining their profit margins This creates an impossible situation where sustainable options become premium products that most people simply can't afford This strategy lets fashion brands have it both ways: they offer "eco-friendly" collections at higher prices, then point to low sales as proof that consumers don't really care about sustainability But framing ethical fashion as a luxury choice misses the point entirely Most people, like my friend Mai, aren't refusing to buy sustainable fashion because they don't care They can't afford it And they shouldn't have to choose between their values and their budget
What we need isn't more expensive "conscious collections" but fundamental changes to how the fashion industry operates Progress is emerging The EU's upcoming Due Diligence legislation will require companies to address human rights violations in supply chains France prohibits destroying unsold fashion items California's Garment Worker Protection Act eliminated the piecerate system enabling wage theft What Can Young Consumers Really Do?
At Arizona State University, students are challenging the fast fashion cycle through grassroots efforts like Depop’s College Ambassador Program They organize clothing swaps, run vintage markets, and promote secondhand shopping not just as a trend, but as a communitydriven alternative to overconsumption The event draws 200+ students with a simple premise:
RanaPlazacollapse
bring unwanted clothes, take home something "new to you " Each exchange means one less new item produced and one less in landfill
Similar initiatives are emerging nationwide Online, movements like #WhoMadeMyClothes and #NoNewClothes are gaining momentum, pushing young people to think critically about their shopping habits and demand accountability from the brands they support
When I messaged Mai weeks later, she sent a photo of her organized closet "I havent bought anything new since thinking about this," she wrote "I'm trying to wear what I have Honestly girl, the followers like all the outfits inspo even more!"
It's a small step: recognizing that the most sustainable garment is already in your closet
And for those seeking change within real constraints: Buy less, choose better: Save for one well-made item rather than five disposable ones
Go secondhand: Campus swaps and online platforms make pre-loved fashion accessible
Learn basic repairs: A simple sewing kit extends clothing life significantly
Research brands: Use resources like Good On You to make informed choices
Use your voice: Support campaigns for living wages and
accountability
We don’t have to accept the system we inherited We can rewrite it Just one thoughtful choice, one collective action everyday
EDITOR-IN- CHIEF: PAIGE HO
FUSIONINK FIRST ISSUE
GLOBAL AFFAIRS ISSUE
Global Youth Leaders Reshaping Activism
Section Manager/Writer- Lucas Qiu
Youth leaders have been reshaping the global landscape by championing for change through their a
Greta Thunberg is one of the most famous examples of a youth leader, inspiring countless youth leaders around the world However, these youth leaders also struggle with challenges regarding their activism ctivism These youth leaders have been championing change for contemporary issues such as climate change, gender equality and freedom of speech
Greta Thurberg is a climate activist from Sweden and, is known for her powerful speeches at the United Nations climate change conference, which struck the hearts of millions of people around the world This speech brought the issue of climate change to the forefront of global discussions Prior to her iconic speech, she founded the movement Fridays for Future when she was fifteen The movement began when Greta Thunberg alongside other youth activists sat in front of the Swedish parliament every school day for three weeks In order to protest the lack of action on the climate crisis A Additionally, the movement was spread on social media where it reached a global attention With this, Greta Thunberg became known as a trailblazer in the fight against climate change This led her to be invited to speak at the 2019 United Nations Climate Action Summit, where she addressed world leaders with her iconic speech In 2019 she established the Greta Thunberg foundation, and to this day she remains a prominent figure in climate activism
Whether it’s peacefully protesting for change
Sharing stories highlighting the struggles of others or, simply asking for change, creativity is a trait shared by youth leaders On a more relatable note, youth leaders around the world face a challenge familiar to all, struggling to balance schoolwork and making an impact
As a student myself I know the struggle of doing schoolwork whilst pursuing other passions
Although Greta Thunberg is an excellent example of a youth leader due to her global reach, she has also faced numerous challenges in her activism Such is the case for all youth leaders around the world An example of a young leader overcoming significant challenges to make an impact is Malala Yousafzai.
Malala Yousafzai is a Pakistani activist who advocates for education, human rights, women's rights and peace At seventeen she was the youngest Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, her win symbolised the power of youth and education She had lived under the rule of TTP (Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan), an extremist group who had imposed a
ban on the education of girls As a teen,Malala Yousafzai spoke out against this ban on education by giving speeches and appearing on television As a result of this, she had gained a significant platform which brought her to the attention of the TTP On October 9th 2012, an attempt on her life was made She had been severely wounded and, was subsequently airlifted to a hospital in England where she had undergone surgery in which she was able to recover relatively well The incident had incited major backlash against the TTP and her story was brought to global attention In December of 2012 a right to education bill was made in Pakistan, as well as a petition for the United Nations special envoy for global education to introduce a petition that brings all children around the world back to school by 2015 In 2013 she published a book titled ‘I am Malala: The Story of the Girl who Stood up for Education and was Shot by the Taliban’ As well as, starting the Malala Fund which advocates for education To this day she remains a prominent figure, advocating for education for all While Malala Yousafzai’s fight for girls’ education has made her a global symbol of resilience against oppression in Pakistan, a similar youth leader can be found much closer to home In Flint, Michigan, Mari Copeny, also known as Little Miss Flint, has been advocating for clean water and justice for her community since she was just eight years old When Mari Copeny was six years old the local government of Michigan decided to change the water supply in Flint, Michigan As a result of this, members of the community suffered various different health issues She then wrote a letter addressed to Barack Obama the former president of the United States, the letter detailed the struggles of her community as well as asking for Michele Obama the then first lady of the United States to visit Flint, Michigan The president of the United States subsequently visited Flint, Michigan and allocated one hundred million dollars for the repair of the water system in the area Her story not only details the impact that youth leaders can have but also highlights the creativity of youth leaders
Additionally, a challenge that many youth leaders face across the globe is to gain a significant platform Although the internet has made it easier to get involved in global discussions, gaining a significant platform by oneself is still a significant challenge However, different organizations such as the United Nations, Red Cross etc have made it easier to reach a significant audience These organizations unite leaders around the world to discuss global topics An example of such are the UN SDGs (United Nations Sustainable Development Goals), 17 goals set by the united nations for sustainable development such as no poverty, no hunger, quality education and more Young citizens around the globe have been playing a crucial role in achieving these sustainable development goals Through various creative ways such as student led organizations, clubs and more
Overall these stories highlight the creativity and unity of youth leaders around the world, using creativity to make an impact on the world around us It is apparent from these examples that the next wave of change will be coming from youth leaders
Moreover, these stories also show that no matter where you are in the world you can make a significant impact These stories can inspire us to make an impact in the world through creativity and unity
This image shows the Instagram profile of FusionInk, a global, studentled newspaper that
ARTS AND CULTURE
The Aesthetics of Memory
Section Manager/Writer- Farrin Nuzmul Sahar
Memory is rarely linear It flickers It fades In an era of endless documentation, where lives are recorded down in camera rolls and archive feeds, memory has paradoxically become harder to hold This, for a growing number of artists, isn’t just a philosophical concern, but a creative one
Rather than reaching for perfection, Gen Z artists are increasingly turning inward, using art to process the disjoined to define their personal histories They are not painting what happened, but what it “felt like” to remember
“I used to think I needed to tell a complete story in every piece,” says Mei-Lin Wu, a 17 years-old artist based in Taiwan “Now I realize it is okay to just capture one momentlike the sound of my mom singing in the kitchen, or the blue glow of my old Nintendo DS That IS the memory ”
In Wu’s recent exhibition, Static in the Signal, features of childhood photos, printed receipts from her family;s grocery store, and QR codes that link to distorted audio clips were displayed Her work doesn;t just explain, it evokes, which is what true art does Viewers walk away not with facts, but with a strong sense of feeling and resonance
Collage is a popular choice In Brooklyn, 18-year-old Amir Thomas assembles memory collages out of found objects, printed texts, and torn notebook paper One piece, First Day, Fifth Grade, juxtaposes a crumpled McDonald’s Happy Meal toy with his Catholic school report card symbols of innocence, expectation, and discomfort clashing
The rising focus on memory in art reflects broader cultural questions Why are young artists so drawn to their pasts? And what does it say about how this generation sees itself?
Part of it may stem from the instability of the present With the pandemic, climate anxiety, and shifting political norms, looking backward can offer both comfort and control In classrooms, therapists' offices, and online galleries, memory-based art becomes a tool for reflection a space to reclaim narrative when the future feels uncertain
There’s also a reaction against digital perfection While Instagram filters curate moments to be glossy and complete, memory art leans into the incomplete It values rawness A crumpled sketch A faded photo A glitch in a video All of these imperfections become proof that something real happened even if the details are blurry the aesthetics of memory are not just about looking back They’re about holding on especially in a world that moves fast, forgets fast, and asks us to move on too quickly For these artists, remembering is a radical act It’s a refusal to let meaning fade It’s a way of making sense of yourself, one brushstroke at a time
In the gallery space, on TikTok timelines, or tucked into an AP portfolio, memory is no longer just something we have It’s something we make
This idea also echoes in how memory art is shared While traditional galleries still hold weight, platforms like TikTok and Instagram have become alternative exhibition spaces A 10-second video of a sketchbook page, a voiceover of a journal entry layered over a painting these become modern altars to memory Artists aren’t waiting for permission to display their pasts They’re self-curating, self-publishing, and self-reflecting in real-time
There’s something deeply democratic about this You don’t need a museum wall to declare your memory valid. A drawing taped to your bedroom door, a scanned page uploaded to a subreddit, or a short video of your old neighborhood all of it becomes part of this new archive of feeling It’s raw It’s fast And it’s changing the very definition of artistic permanence
Critics may argue that such art is too personal, too abstract to hold societal value But perhaps that’s the point In a world where everything is optimized productivity, beauty, success young artists are reclaiming space to feel without the need to explain They are showing us that not all stories have a plot, and not all memories need structure Sometimes, the quiet act of remembering is enough ---- the aesthetics of memory
EDITOR-IN- CHIEF: PAIGE HO FUSIONINK FIRST ISSUE
Neurodivergent Artists Are Reshaping Fashion Through Sensory-Inclusive Design
Editor-In-Chief/Writer - Paige Ho
A soft shirt with no tag A hoodie whose seams don’t scratch A pair of pants that hug you just right not too loose, not too tight These aren’t just details For some people, they’re everything In the world of fashion, style has long been equated with “BPI” (beauty, power, and innovation) But for neurodivergent individuals those whose brains process information differently, such as people with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing disorder fashion can often feel like a battlefield Scratchy textures, restrictive cuts, unpredictable fabrics, or tags in the wrong place can cause genuine distress Yet, until recently, the fashion world had little to say or offer about sensory comfort
That’s beginning to change
A new wave of neurodivergent artists and designers is leading a quiet but powerful revolution: one where fashion is not only beautiful on the outside but also deeply empathetic These creators are rethinking clothing as a sensory experience not just something to look at, but something to feel In their hands, design becomes a strong connection between our body and brain, comfort and confidence
“For me, clothes are about safety,” says Maya Tran, an 18-year-old textile designer who identifies as autistic “I design like I’m wrapping someone in a memory soft, safe, and gentle ” The Unseen Struggles with Mainstream Fashion
For people with sensory sensitivity, typical fashion can be a source of anxiety Seams that dig, materials that irritate, unpredictable fits all can be overstimulating or even painful The fashion industry, with its focus on aesthetics over experience, often overlooks these needs
“Wearing jeans in high school felt like punishment,” laughs Amir Dawson, a 19year-old ADHD artist “I used to rip out the inside tags of every shirt I owned No one around me understood why I got so irritated by a tiny corner of fabric ”
These aren’t quirks they’re neurological realities And they impact daily life in ways that most brands don’t address
Leading with Lived Experience
That’s why neurodivergent designers are uniquely positioned to lead this change They know firsthand what it feels like to be overwhelmed by texture or comforted by softness For them, inclusive fashion isn’t a buzzword It’s survival and art
Take Lucy Jones, a Parsons School of Design graduate who gained recognition for her work designing fashionable clothing for people with disabilities Her process is research-heavy, collaborative, and rooted in respect While not exclusively focused on sensory issues, her work laid groundwork for rethinking the purpose of clothing
Or look to online spaces like Etsy, where neurodivergent creators are making custom compression vests, tag-free loungewear, or clothing lined with calming scents like lavender These are not mass-produced items they’re handmade, emotionally informed, and quietly revolutionary
“My studio is full of fabric scraps that I test on my arm and neck,” Maya says “If I wouldn’t wear it during a meltdown, it doesn’t go into my collection ”
Clothing as Language
Fashion has always been a form of communication For neurodivergent designers, it becomes even more intimate: a wearable extension of the self
In sensory-inclusive design, every decision matters A fabric that breathes well might signal calm A hidden pocket might offer security A pressureweighted hoodie could ground someone in a chaotic space
Some artists treat fashion like a story One teen designer, Luna Morales,
created a series of jackets, symbolizing different emotional states “overstimulation,”
“masking,” “release ” Each garment was designed not just to reflect the feeling, but to respond to it through materials, shape, and movement
“You don’t have to be neurodivergent to want to feel safe in your clothes,” Luna wrote in her portfolio “But being neurodivergent helps you design for those who’ve never had that luxury ”
The Cultural Shift: Gen Z’s Influence Thankfully, Gen Z is pushing against these norms With its emphasis on identity, authenticity, and inclusivity, the generation is redefining fashion itself Comfort-wear is in Gender binaries are out Designers on TikTok and Depop are gaining cult followings for upcycled, handmade, sensoryfriendly collections
The digital age has also allowed neurodivergent creators to connect, share, and sell their work on their own terms Platforms like Instagram and Ko-Fi are becoming informal design studios where garments are tested, revised, and built around dialogue
“I never thought I’d be a designer,” Maya says “But now people DM me saying my clothes helped them go to school without panic That’s bigger than fashion ”
The movement toward sensoryinclusive design isn’t just a trend It’s a reimagining of what fashion can be: functional, emotional, and empathetic These young artists aren’t asking for permission they’re creating the world they want to wear
In the hands of neurodivergent designers, fashion stops being about looking good for others It becomes about feeling right for yourself And in that, they are threading meaning into every seam, every stitch, every soft fold