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Science News for July 19, 2000


Kidney transplant proposal reduces wait from 24 to 14 months, improves equity for blacks & women

A proposed kidney transplant system assigns priorities based on efficiency and equity points, reducing median waiting time from 24 to 14 months. The new policy increases the overall likelihood of transplantation from 45% to 61% and improves quality-adjusted life expectancy for African-Americans and women.

Purdue researcher solves sorghum mystery

Researchers have found that a tough protein wall in sorghum seeds slows down digestion, but Hamaker's work identified an uncommon variety with improved digestibility. The study could lead to more nutritious sorghum crops for human consumption and animal feed.

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 19, 2000

American Thoracic Society news tips for July 2000

Researchers found that workers with occupational asthma are at higher risk for hospitalization due to respiratory disease and asthma. Clinically silent acid reflux was also discovered in asthma patients, with a high prevalence rate suggesting a potential common association between the two conditions.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJul 19, 2000

Beyond the everlasting lightbulb

Gallium nitride is used to produce very bright light emitting diodes and lasers, and very high power transistors that can operate at high temperatures. The technology has potential applications in mobile phone base stations, surgery, and dentistry, promising huge energy savings and CO2 reductions.