Science & Technology

The latest in science and technology.

As a faculty member, Kaspi recognizes the challenges faced by female physics students. (Alexandra Allaire / McGill Tribune)

Extreme, observable physics

In honour of “Women’s Month,” the Tribune is profiling different female researchers at McGill, and the story behind their work.    Imagine walking into a classroom filled entirely with people of the opposite gender. McGill Physics Professor Dr. Victoria Kaspi remembers her shock at the overwhelmingly male cohort during her[Read More…]

Viruses contain both living and non-living characteristics, making them difficult to classify. (static.ddmcdn)

Viruses develop a life of their own

Researchers have hotly debated the topic of viral classification for the past several decades. While scientists are still undecided as to whether or not viruses should be considered “living,” it is clear that these organisms do not meet the classical definition of life—maintenance of homeostasis, cellular organization, metabolism, growth, adaptation,[Read More…]

Cornell researchers used fMRIs to observe brain activity. (Image Source: scientopia.org)

Neuroimaging allows scientists to see thoughts

Scientists are getting closer to something mothers have been doing for years: knowing what we’re thinking. The development of neuroimaging technology—various techniques used to directly and indirectly image the brain—has shifted our understanding of how the brain works. Recently, two studies utilized technology to visualize brain activity associated with the[Read More…]

Dr. Hannah Gay made the decision to treat the baby with drugs even before her infection was confirmed. (Image Source: lancasteronline.com)

Exceptions to the epidemic?

Over the last 30 years, science has seen many breakthroughs with respect to AIDS caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Affecting over 34 million people worldwide, billions of dollars have been donated to finding a cure for this disease. However, as of 2013, there is still no cure for[Read More…]

How much is too much caffeine?

Coffee is often a welcomed friend during the semester. According to folklore, the bean’s energizing properties were first discovered by an Ethiopian goat herdsman, who found his flock frolicking after eating coffee berries from nearby bushes. It’s not just goats that enjoy the effects of caffeine, however. According to the[Read More…]

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