Listing of Stories

Why do some people get severely sick from swine flu and others barely feel it? As flu season ramps up, scientists at UCSF's Viral Discovery Center are racing to learn more about the 2009 H1N1 virus, including how it's evolving, and whether our current treatments will remain effective.

Play this Radio Report Air Date: Sep 21, 2009

We all know that, thanks to our DNA, each of us is a little bit different. Some of those differences are obvious, like eye and hair color, but others are not so obvious, like how our bodies react to medication. Researchers are beginning to look at how to tailor medical treatments to our genetic profiles. Some of the biggest breakthroughs have been in cancer treatment.

Play this Radio Report Air Date: Sep 14, 2009

Wine grapes are one of the most sprayed crops in California. A growing number of farmers are choosing not to spray and are doing other things for the environment, too. The challenge is there are now so many choices when it comes to green wines, it can be baffling for the eco-conscious consumer. Organic, sustainable, biodynamic, natural... what does it all mean?

Play this Radio Report Air Date: Sep 7, 2009

Which algae are most efficient at producing oil? What other uses have algae been given throughout history? Take the QUEST Quiz to find out.

Play this TV Story Air Date: Sep 1, 2009

In a co-production with NOVA Science Now, QUEST explores the potential of algae-–once considered nothing more than pond scum–-to become the fuel of the future. Entrepreneurs from the Bay Area to LA are working to create the next generation of biofuels from algae. But will you ever be able to run your car off it?

Play this TV Story Air Date: Sep 1, 2009

A few weeks from now, San Francisco residents will start facing warnings, and even fines, if they fail to recycle, as the city aims to keep ever more garbage out of its landfills. But, after twenty years of curbside recycling and, more recently, composting programs, Californians produce more waste than ever.

Play this Radio Report Air Date: Aug 31, 2009

With the race on to reduce global warming and fossil fuel dependency, experts in alternative energy see a bright future for renewable resources like wind, solar, hydro-power and geothermal energy. QUEST and Climate Watch team up to look at the "Smart Grid" of the future and how it might be improved to more cleanly and efficiently keep the lights on in California.

Play this TV Story Air Date: Aug 25, 2009

In California, nuclear power has long been a subject that's "radioactive." But recent polls suggest that Californians may finally be warming up to the idea and a new study suggests that a clean energy future may not happen without it. Craig Miller reports on the prospects for a "nuclear revival" in the Golden State.

Play this Radio Report Air Date: Aug 24, 2009