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Science News for April 28, 1999


Study Reveals Prominent Fears Of School-Age Children

A new study by Ohio State University researchers found that boys tend to fear animals, supernatural phenomena, and safety more often than girls, who fear natural phenomena such as thunderstorms and the dark. The study used human-figure drawings and questionnaires to assess anxiety levels in 86 children aged 8-12.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Pediatric Health Care·DateApr 28, 1999

Bugs Can Ward Off The 'Bends'

Deep-sea divers may benefit from bacterial supplements that reduce dissolved hydrogen in their blood, mitigating the risk of decompression sickness. Researchers have found that methane-producing microorganisms can help alleviate symptoms.

SourceNew Scientist·JournalThe New Scientist·DateApr 28, 1999

Study Suggests New Approach To Asthma

Researchers found that epithelial cells contain an anti-virus alarm system which triggers persistent inflammation in asthma. The study challenges the traditional view of asthma as an allergic response and suggests a new approach to treatment.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 28, 1999

Caring For The Aging Holocaust Survivor

A global conference at Baycrest Centre in Toronto brings together experts and survivors to address the specific needs of aging Holocaust survivors, while also learning from recent genocide victims in Rwanda. The event aims to provide health care professionals, academics, and families with coping strategies to deal with passed-on trauma.

Cultural Differences Affect Decision-Making, Study Finds

Researchers found that Japanese students used an intuitive process to make decisions, while Americans relied on 'number-crunching' and careful information processing. The study suggests that cultural differences play a significant role in influencing how people make decisions, with implications for global business.

SourceOhio State University·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·DateApr 28, 1999

The Liver's Secret Of Regeneration

Bone marrow stem cells have been shown to form liver cells, suggesting a potential new approach for treating cirrhosis. Researchers at McGill University in Quebec discovered that cells from bone marrow can differentiate into hepatocytes, oval cells and bile duct cells.

SourceNew Scientist·JournalThe New Scientist·DateApr 28, 1999