The internet, a network of networks, is often thought to have an ethereal existence—an illusive virtual web that somehow enables a message to travel from your McGill email to an account in London, or a tweet to circulate around the globe. What is surprising, however, is the tangible basis of[Read More…]
Science & Technology
The latest in science and technology.
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 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…]
Demystifying the Mathematician
In honour of “Women’s Month.” Each week , in March, the Tribune is profiling different female researchers at McGill, and the story behind their work.
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…]
App Reviews
With finals less than a month away, the Tribune has reviewed three productivity apps to help keep you on top of your work.
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…]
Is Mechanical Engineering an “all-boys club?”
Mechanical engineering is one of the oldest engineering disciplines, burdened with long-standing traditions. However, many students are deterred by the field’s abstractness. The discipline is also characterized by a significant imbalance in the ratio of males to females involved. “Focusing on the application, rather than theory, could be a means[Read More…]
A healthy breakfast or worse than smoking?
The question of whether eggs are a healthy protein source or a deadly cholesterol bomb is among the most disputed topics in dietary sciences. An online query into the subject proves more confusing than helpful—many studies give contradicting results. Some say that eating eggs is worse than smoking, while others[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…]
