Love Under the Microscope

kvd1 — Wed, 08 May 2019 16:17:18 +0000

Dalila Villalobos

As pathologists in training, we are constantly reminded that both human cellular responses and the most deadly medical conditions can be unexpectedly beautiful under the microscope. We are trained to be detail oriented and to understand disease in all its forms because abnormalities will only present to the eye that knows what to look for. This photo captures a normal prostatic gland with its characteristic double layer and irregular branching. The moment we diagnose a benign condition in a patient that is anxiously awaiting results is always rewarding. But, if, on top of that, we see heart-shape glands, it is inspiration.

Location of photograph:

Kingston Health Sciences Centre

Prize name:

Winner, Invisible Discoveries

Submission Year:

2018-19

Platinum Surface Electrochemistry

stratg — Tue, 02 Oct 2018 20:14:23 +0000

Derek Esau

The single crystal of platinum gently hangs atop an electrolyte surface. Electrochemistry is a surface-sensitive field of research, as the composition and atomic arrangement of the electrode drastically affect its properties. Atoms in a single crystal are highly ordered, and we are able to cut and polish a crystal in such a way that we only expose one of the many possible surface arrangements. The single crystal electrode is balanced on the surface of the electrolyte to ensure that only the polished surface is exposed. These experiments give us fundamental information about electrochemical reactions, which are integral to the field of clean energy.

Location of photograph:

Department of Chemistry, Queen's University

Prize name:

Winner, Invisible Discoveries

Submission Year:

2017-18