EDUCATION: Predoctoral Postdoctoral Fellowships Continuing Education PATIENT CARE Oral Radiology Oral Medicine Geriatrics RESEARCH: Imaging Clinical Trials Oral Cancer UTHSCSA Homepage	RESEARCH There is a considerable amount of research and scholarship activity in the Department of Dental Diagnostic Science. The Research Division conducts numerous clinical trials of dental products for several industrial sponsors, and research on the relationship of dietary factors with inflammation of the oral mucosa is being conducted as well. The radiology group is studying a variety of topics. The use of rare earth metals is being investigated for use as x-ray beam filters. This line of research has the potential to reduce x-ray exposure significantly in dental radiology. Digital subtraction and image analysis research is another area of focus. A filmless electronic method for use in panoramic x-ray machines has been developed. Magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy are being evaluated for assessment of inflammation of the temporomandibular joint. The geriatrics group directs the NIDCR-funded Research Center on Oral Health in Aging to study oral health among San Antonio’s elderly population entitled, "Oral Health: San Antonio Longitudinal Study of Aging (OH:SALSA)." The oral medicine group is involved in investigations of attitudes of dentists concerning AIDs, asepsis procedures in dental practice, and maxillofacial prosthetic management of neurogenic tongue syndrome. Several textbooks on oral medicine, oral diagnosis and radiology have been published and revised by faculty in the Department. Numerous journal articles are published in the refereed literature and faculty and graduate students give many regional and national presentations.