Breath of foul air in the lab

Monday 13 July 1992 23:02 BST

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

SYDNEY (AP) - Researchers studying dental plaque have built an artificial mouth, complete with bad breath and teeth-destroying bacteria.

The mouth is made of glass and is 20 inches long, Chris Sissons, a scientist with New Zealand's Dental Research Unit, said yesterday. Instead of teeth it has 'plaque growth stations' where bacteria are fed a diet resembling human saliva and sugar. Dr Sissons says the mouth produces a stench like rancid butter, making air fresheners essential in his laboratory.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Thank you for registering

Breath of foul air in the lab

Join our commenting forum

Thank you for registering