How it works: Stem cell research

Stem cell research has long been a controversial topic. To its supporters, it holds the promise of curing many chronic and degenerative diseases. To its detractors, it crosses an ethical boundary. What exactly are stem cells, how far away are those cures, and why the opposition? Full story

Laney Library previews the Science Reference Center

For this issue's "How it works" column, I'm doing things a little differently and shining the spotlight on Laney Library's new Science Reference Center. Full story

How it works: four-leaf clovers

Legend says they are good luck; science says they're a good look

Do you ever wonder what causes four-leaf clovers? Scientists have only recently been able to answer that question. Full story

How it works: Solar Panels

A column about the science behind every day things

If you want to go green, switching to solar panels for your electricity is one way to do it.   But how do solar panels harvest light from the sun and convert it into electrical energy? Full story

How It works: The human heart

A column about the science behind every day things

Did you know February is American Heart Month? It's not all about valentines and candies.  According to the CDC, heart disease causes almost one in four deaths and it's the leading cause of death for both men and women in the U.S. For the first column in this new series, "How It Works" we'll look at how the heart does its job and what causes heart disease. Full story