Latest from Marcus Medford-Kerr
Dead or 'unalive'? How social platforms — and algorithms — are shaping the way we talk
You might be familiar with the terms "seggs" and "unalive" if you've spent time on social media platforms. They're a part of what's called "algospeak," a kind of coded language used on social media to protect content from getting removed or flagged by algorithm-based moderation tools.
Door-to-door salespeople are finding success amid skepticism of online scams
It might seem old-fashioned, but people in the business of door-to-door work say the industry's survived because it stands out amidst growing distrust of marketing by phone or online advertising.
These sea spiders use the bacteria on their bodies to turn methane into food
Scientists discovered three new species of sea spiders that live near the ocean floor and feast on bacteria that convert methane. Scientists say the finding gives them a deeper understanding of the methane cycle and the creatures far below the ocean's surface.
Like real-life Dr. Dolittles, scientists are using AI to decode animal communication
Scientists are using AI to decode the meaning of animal communication. The Coller Dolittle Challenge for Interspecies Two-Way Communication awards researchers whose works brings humans closer to the possibility of communicating with animals.
'Adulting 101' programs help Gen Z catch up on key life skills
A researcher and psychologist says Gen Z children grew up with fewer opportunities to learn practical skills than older generations. Some post-secondary institutions are offering "adulting" resources to help students gain the skills and confidence to navigate the world more independently.
Why more Canadians are getting divorced later in life
Grey divorces, when a couple older than 50 end their marriage, are on the rise in Canada. When couples reassess their relationship, the end of careers, kids and cost of living all factor into their decisions.
Q&A
Perfect pitch can be learned, says researcher. But only if you practice perfectly
New research busts the myth that perfect pitch — the ability to flawlessly recreate or identify a musical note — is something you're born with but can't be learned. The findings give adult learners hope that new skills can be learned later in life.
How pig kidney transplants could help those struggling with organ failure
Successful pig-to-human kidney transplants are raising hope among some in the medical community who think the treatment could be a game changer for people living with kidney disease but some are skeptical of the treatment's value.
3 Olympians talk about their golden moments at 2024 Paris Games
Ethan Katzberg, Katie Vincent and Brendon Rodney are three of Canada's gold-medal Olympians from the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, where Canada had it's best medal haul at a non-boycotted summer Olympic games.
Q&A
Ukraine's incursion into Russia was risky but 'worth it,' says history professor
Ukrainian troops continue to push into Russia's Kursk and Belgorod regions following a surprise incursion launched on August 6. University of Toronto professor Andres Kasekamp says the move puts pressure of Russian President Vladimir Putin.