Opportunity for Collaboration in IPY
"Inuit and Western Descriptions of the Narwhal, Connecting
Parallel Perceptions: Studies of the Narwhal Tooth Expeditions and
Research Investigation"
For further information, please contact:
Martin Nweeia
E-mail: martin_nweeia [at] hsdm.harvard.edu
or go to:
http://www.narwhal.org
Martin Nweeia, an instructor at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine,
leads a project entitled "Inuit and Western Descriptions of the Narwhal,
Connecting Parallel Perceptions: Studies of the Narwhal Tooth
Expeditions and Research Investigation." He would like to hear from
anyone who is interested in collaboration in the project as part of IPY.
The main objective of this study is to move parallel perceptions of
Western scientific thinking and current research by the investigation
team and Inuit elder traditional knowledge into a single line of
understanding of the narwhal.
Abstract
Scientists with myriad backgrounds and Inuit elders with traditional
knowledge will combine results and insights to discover the purpose and
function of the erupted tusk of the narwhal. This extraordinary tooth
defies most of the principles and properties of teeth and remains a
scientific enigma. Findings about its form and function will add to the
evolutionary knowledge for this odd adaptation and will, because of
unique findings of anatomy and histology recently discovered, further
define sensory capabilities of mammalian teeth. The hard tissue of the
narwhal tusk possesses a combination of unusual flexibility and
strength, characteristics that are highly desirable in restorative
materials. These tusk traits were observed by the Inuit before the
laboratory testing was completed and the results were reported.
Scientific studies in anatomy, histology, and cellular biology are
currently being conducted by the PI and his collaborators to elucidate
tusk function. Anatomical variations of narwhal will be described from
previous field and laboratory dissection, computerized scans (CT, MRI,
and micro CT), analysis of museum specimens, and interviews with Inuit
elders.
Photometric analysis of narwhal skeletal collections have begun at the
Museum of Nature in Canada, Zoological Museum at the University of
Copenhagen, the Smithsonian Institution, and the American Museum of
Natural History. Nweeia is still seeking other collections, particularly
those with rare specimens. Anatomic plates of narwhal anatomy will be
completed based on these findings, scan results, and dissection of
existing specimens brought back on expedition. Recent scientific results
have directed attention to ice formation and salinity gradients in the
Arctic so Nweeia is also seeking to collaborate with investigators
collecting and mapping this information in arctic waters.
For further information, please contact:
Martin Nweeia
E-mail: martin_nweeia [at] hsdm.harvard.edu