At first glance, being a perfectionist may seem like an advantage in a world where productivity and achievement are so highly valued. As a student, what could possibly be better than having the drive to ensure everything you do is done perfectly? As it turns out, recent research shows that[Read More…]
Science & Technology
The latest in science and technology.
Should consent for examinations under anesthesia be obligatory?
In recent years, the practice of obtaining consent from medical patients, particularly when conducting examinations under anesthesia (EUAs) of the sensitive pelvic, rectal, or prostate regions, has gained increased attention. While the United States has seen significant media coverage and regulatory changes on this issue, Canada continues to lag behind.[Read More…]
Zooming in on the streets of Montreal
Streets play a vital role in our day-to-day life, and their layout can affect everything from physical health to social connections and mental well-being. Well-designed streets that prioritize pedestrian safety and offer accessible, active transport options support encourage a healthier lifestyle. However, these thoughtful design features aren’t always equitably distributed[Read More…]
Frozen zero-cement backfill may cement a carbon-free future
In 2022, cement production accounted for eight per cent of the world’s total carbon emissions, releasing 1.6 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. As climate change worsens, reducing carbon emissions becomes more necessary than ever. As such, many researchers are seeking alternative methods to produce cement-like materials without[Read More…]
When a DNA test doesn’t go the way you expected…
Imagine taking what appears to be a harmless DNA ancestry test, expecting to uncover more information about your heritage, only to be met with the discovery that your assumed parent is not biologically related to you. Direct-to-consumer DNA tests—such as those provided by 23AndMe and Ancestry—typically provide three pieces of[Read More…]
Think you know how your friends feel? Think again
Can you always accurately tell how your friends are feeling? What about the stranger across from you on the metro? Can you differentiate between someone smiling out of happiness, excitement, or contentment? If you think “yes,” recent research may come as a surprise. Alexandrija Zikic, a graduate psychology student working[Read More…]
Fresh produce: The hidden face of food poisoning
Over four million Canadians contract food poisoning every year, making it a relatively common—although intensely unpleasant—ailment. The most commonly identified culprits are undercooked red meat, poultry products, and seafood. However, fresh produce is another source that often gets overlooked. As the general public increasingly recognizes fruits and vegetables as integral[Read More…]
Searching for life beyond Earth
What does it mean to be alive? Could life exist elsewhere in the universe, and if so, how would we recognize it? On Jan. 14, 2025, Dr. Michael L. Wong, Postdoctoral Fellow at Carnegie Science’s Earth & Planets Laboratory, addressed these mysteries during a seminar at the Trottier Space Institute[Read More…]
Five must-see science events this semester
With the add-drop period coming to an end and several more cold months lying ahead, the winter semester at McGill seems as daunting as ever. Luckily, for those who take pleasure in learning new things, there is respite to be found on campus and throughout the city of Montreal. With[Read More…]
Take The Tribune’s Science and Technology quiz
Which McGill campus building has an observatory on its roof? a) McIntyre Medical Buildingb) McCall MacBain Arts Buildingc) Burnside Halld) Ernest Rutherford Physics Building What causes the glowing green light in the sky over Montreal? a) The aurora borealis / northern lightsb) The Desjardins Complexc) Global warmingd) Aliens Barbara Althea[Read More…]
