News Briefs

September 10, 2010

Toothbrush gets recognition

Dentistry students Jen Lee and Jin Li placed third at the International Dental Expo and Symposium in Hong Kong for their poster of the Soladey-J3X toothbrush that uses light energy to help breakdown plaque biofilm while brushing.

The brush uses a solar panel at the base to transfer electrons via a conductive wire to a Ti02 semiconductor at the neck. The electrons simulate a reaction that facilitates the disruption of plaque and helps reduce gingival inflammation. The product is already retailing in parts of Asia and Europe and available online.

SSHRC funding awarded

BThe Social Science and Humanities Research Council has awarded researchers at the U of S a total of $1.6 million in funding over three years to study issues that include the impact of environmental change on wildlife management, effects of executive compensation in the public sector, and ways of reducing poverty in rural communities.

The total amount includes $685,000 for scholarships and fellowships awarded to 23 U of S graduate students.

“This investment in our outstanding and diverse research talent will result in new knowledge that will have an impact on society, the environment and the economy, while training the next generation of innovative researchers,” said U of S Vice-President Research Karen Chad.