Science

An introduction to stem cells while assuming no prior knowledge, and covers the following topics: what stem cells are, the difference between embryonic and adult stem cells, IVF as a key source of embryonic stem cells, therapeutic cloning (somatic cell nuclear transfer), the difference between therapeutic and reproductive cloning, potential medical applications of stem cell research and a brief

This program tackles one of the most contentious areas of contemporary science: embryonic stem cell research. Different viewpoints are presented, and speakers include: Professor Alan Trounson, prominent stem cell scientist; Father Norman Ford, an ethics commentator; Patients with life-threatening medical conditions.

Any ecosystem needs energy to sustain it, and the organisms within it. This energy comes in massive quantities from the Sun, although only a tiny fraction of the solar energy hitting the Earth goes towards sustaining life. The flow of energy through an ecosystem is complex, and vital to sustaining all life within it.

What exactly are greenhouse gases? Are they really causing climate change? Global warming has suddenly become the hottest environmental issue, and this program clearly explains the science of the greenhouse effect and the evidence that we are causing climate change.

This program begins with an explanation of nanotechnology, and then demonstrates micrometers and nanometers. Viewers will also examine the special properties of nanoparticles, the gecko effect, carbon nanotubes, surface energy; hydrophilic and hydrophobic surfaces as well as the lotus effect.

This awe-inspiring video shows of the process of human reproduction from conception to birth. It explains how mitosis and meiosis create genetic variation, how the ovum travels from the ovary to the uterus, how sperm pass the cervix, how one sperm achieves fertilization with the ovum, how the zygote begins cell differentiation, and how the embryo grows into a fetus ready for birth.

On April 25, 1953, James Watson and Francis Crick published their groundbreaking discovery of the double helix structure of DNA, the molecule essential for passing on our genes and the ''secret of life.'' But their crucial breakthrough depended on the pioneering work of another biologist–Rosalind Franklin.

This eye-opening program delves into humanity's war with lethal microorganisms and viruses. Detailed images illuminate how microbes attack the body and how our immune systems defend it. Reenactments of remarkable medical discoveries - penicillin, blood groups, methods of malaria control, and the polio vaccine- are portrayed.

Profiles a diverse group of Goldman Environmental Prize winners who have made it their duty to protect their local environments. The inspiring stories pose questions about how to weigh the needs of modern life with the reality of its impact on the environment. Demonstrates many ways that regular people can become environmental heroes.

Contains 2 programs from the PBS Nature series.

Stars actor Jeff Goldblum and dramatizes the race to solve the structure of DNA. It is the story of the diligent research and perseverance of James Watson and Francis Crick that led to the discovery. Students of biology and genetics will benefit from the process of problem-solving used to identify the structure of DNA, as well as the clear, concise summary of research evidence.

There is a lot of controversy around genetic modification of organisms and cloning. This program looks at the way man has modified genomes of plants and animals used for food since the dawn of agriculture. As knowledge of cells and genetics has increased so has man's ability to alter genomes.

Professor Alan Trounson is a distinguished Australian scientist. He was one of the pioneers of IVF treatment for infertile couples, and is now a leading international figure in stem cell research. He reviews a range of techniques and issues related to stem cell research, including: maker cell biology, gene expression and epigenetics, applications of genetics and epigenetics, ?blinking on?

Investigators and medical examiners user the most advanced medical tools to uncover a multitude of murders through poisoning. Forensic Files® is a pioneer in the field of fact-based, high-tech, dramatic storytelling. This critically acclaimed, award winning series delves into the world of forensic science, profiling intriguing crimes, accidents and outbreaks of disease from around the world.

Jealousy, deceit and greed lead to unimaginable acts of violence which only forensics can solve. Forensic Files® is a pioneer in the field of fact-based, high-tech, dramatic storytelling. This critically acclaimed, award winning series delves into the world of forensic science, profiling intriguing crimes, accidents and outbreaks of disease from around the world.