Kyösti Kontturi, Lasse Murtomäki, and José A. Manzanares
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- September 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780199533817
- eISBN:
- 9780191714825
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199533817.001.0001
- Subject:
- Physics, Condensed Matter Physics / Materials
Modelling of heterogeneous processes, such as electrochemical reactions, extraction, or ion-exchange, usually requires solving the transport problem associated with the process. Since the processes ...
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Modelling of heterogeneous processes, such as electrochemical reactions, extraction, or ion-exchange, usually requires solving the transport problem associated with the process. Since the processes at the phase boundary are described by scalar quantities and transport quantities are vectors or tensors, the coupling of them can take place only via conservation of mass, charge, or momentum. In this book transport of ionic species is addressed in a versatile manner, emphasizing the mutual coupling of fluxes in particular. Treatment is based on the formalism of irreversible thermodynamics, i.e., on linear (ionic) phenomenological equations, from which the most frequently used Nernst-Planck equation is derived. Limitations and assumptions made are discussed in detail. The Nernst-Planck equation is applied to selected problems at the electrodes and in membranes. Mathematical derivations are presented so that the reader can learn the methodology of solving transport problems. Each chapter contains a large number of exercises.Less
Modelling of heterogeneous processes, such as electrochemical reactions, extraction, or ion-exchange, usually requires solving the transport problem associated with the process. Since the processes at the phase boundary are described by scalar quantities and transport quantities are vectors or tensors, the coupling of them can take place only via conservation of mass, charge, or momentum. In this book transport of ionic species is addressed in a versatile manner, emphasizing the mutual coupling of fluxes in particular. Treatment is based on the formalism of irreversible thermodynamics, i.e., on linear (ionic) phenomenological equations, from which the most frequently used Nernst-Planck equation is derived. Limitations and assumptions made are discussed in detail. The Nernst-Planck equation is applied to selected problems at the electrodes and in membranes. Mathematical derivations are presented so that the reader can learn the methodology of solving transport problems. Each chapter contains a large number of exercises.
Pierluigi Frisco
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780199542864
- eISBN:
- 9780191715679
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199542864.001.0001
- Subject:
- Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Mathematical Biology
How could we use living cells to perform computation? Would our definition of computation change as a consequence of this? Could such a cell-computer outperform digital computers? These are some of ...
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How could we use living cells to perform computation? Would our definition of computation change as a consequence of this? Could such a cell-computer outperform digital computers? These are some of the questions that the study of Membrane Computing tries to answer and are at the base of what is treated by this monograph. Descriptional and computational complexity of models in Membrane Computing are the two lines of research on which is the focus here. In this context this book reports the results of only some of the models present in this framework. The models considered here represent a very relevant part of all the models introduced so far in the study of Membrane Computing. They are in between the most studied models in the field and they cover a broad range of features (using symbol objects or string objects, based only on communications, inspired by intra- and intercellular processes, having or not having a tree as underlying structure, etc.) that gives a grasp of the enormous flexibility of this framework. Links with biology and Petri nets are constant through this book. This book aims also to inspire research. This book gives suggestions for research of various levels of difficulty and this book clearly indicates their importance and the relevance of the possible outcomes. Readers new to this field of research will find the provided examples particularly useful in the understanding of the treated topics.Less
How could we use living cells to perform computation? Would our definition of computation change as a consequence of this? Could such a cell-computer outperform digital computers? These are some of the questions that the study of Membrane Computing tries to answer and are at the base of what is treated by this monograph. Descriptional and computational complexity of models in Membrane Computing are the two lines of research on which is the focus here. In this context this book reports the results of only some of the models present in this framework. The models considered here represent a very relevant part of all the models introduced so far in the study of Membrane Computing. They are in between the most studied models in the field and they cover a broad range of features (using symbol objects or string objects, based only on communications, inspired by intra- and intercellular processes, having or not having a tree as underlying structure, etc.) that gives a grasp of the enormous flexibility of this framework. Links with biology and Petri nets are constant through this book. This book aims also to inspire research. This book gives suggestions for research of various levels of difficulty and this book clearly indicates their importance and the relevance of the possible outcomes. Readers new to this field of research will find the provided examples particularly useful in the understanding of the treated topics.
Pierluigi Frisco
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780199542864
- eISBN:
- 9780191715679
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199542864.003.0002
- Subject:
- Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Mathematical Biology
The present chapter contains a brief introduction to membranes in living cells. This chapter describes the composition and functions of cell membranes and the functions of some of the organelles ...
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The present chapter contains a brief introduction to membranes in living cells. This chapter describes the composition and functions of cell membranes and the functions of some of the organelles present in eukariotic cells. The presentation of biochemical and biological concepts provided in this book is quite simplified. It is directed to computer scientists, not biologists. This chapter's aim is to give sufficient background for the understanding of the biological processes and phenomena which inspired the considered models of membrane systems.Less
The present chapter contains a brief introduction to membranes in living cells. This chapter describes the composition and functions of cell membranes and the functions of some of the organelles present in eukariotic cells. The presentation of biochemical and biological concepts provided in this book is quite simplified. It is directed to computer scientists, not biologists. This chapter's aim is to give sufficient background for the understanding of the biological processes and phenomena which inspired the considered models of membrane systems.
Timothy J. Bradley
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780198569961
- eISBN:
- 9780191728273
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198569961.001.0001
- Subject:
- Biology, Animal Biology
Water is fundamental to life and to the maintenance of an appropriate environment for physiological functions at the molecular, cellular, and organismal level. Water balance is also the principal ...
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Water is fundamental to life and to the maintenance of an appropriate environment for physiological functions at the molecular, cellular, and organismal level. Water balance is also the principal mechanism of volume regulation in animals. The physical properties of water have profound effects on all biological structures and their function. Animal Osmoregulation has three main themes. The first deals with the physical properties of water, and its interactions with proteins, lipids, and biological membranes. Solutes affect the activity of water and thus the magnitude of the gradients driving water movement through osmosis. The distribution and transport of water in biological systems depends therefore on the properties of solutes, their distribution, and their transport. The second theme involves a detailed physical description of osmosis. This is followed by an explanation of the significance of osmotic regulation in animals inhabiting a wide variety of environments. Examples are explored for marine, freshwater, and terrestrial animals. A broad phylogenetic array of animals is discussed. Thirdly, the book deals with membranes as compartmental barriers. By definition, osmosis occurs through semi-permeable membranes. Membranes also, however, play a fundamental role in energy storage, energy transduction, solute transport, and sensory physiology. This volume approaches animal osmoregulation from the perspective of the physical laws that influence the structure of biological systems. It extends these concepts to explore the diversity of adaptations in the animal kingdom that deal with osmotic challenges in a variety of environments.Less
Water is fundamental to life and to the maintenance of an appropriate environment for physiological functions at the molecular, cellular, and organismal level. Water balance is also the principal mechanism of volume regulation in animals. The physical properties of water have profound effects on all biological structures and their function. Animal Osmoregulation has three main themes. The first deals with the physical properties of water, and its interactions with proteins, lipids, and biological membranes. Solutes affect the activity of water and thus the magnitude of the gradients driving water movement through osmosis. The distribution and transport of water in biological systems depends therefore on the properties of solutes, their distribution, and their transport. The second theme involves a detailed physical description of osmosis. This is followed by an explanation of the significance of osmotic regulation in animals inhabiting a wide variety of environments. Examples are explored for marine, freshwater, and terrestrial animals. A broad phylogenetic array of animals is discussed. Thirdly, the book deals with membranes as compartmental barriers. By definition, osmosis occurs through semi-permeable membranes. Membranes also, however, play a fundamental role in energy storage, energy transduction, solute transport, and sensory physiology. This volume approaches animal osmoregulation from the perspective of the physical laws that influence the structure of biological systems. It extends these concepts to explore the diversity of adaptations in the animal kingdom that deal with osmotic challenges in a variety of environments.
W. Otto Friesen and Jonathon A. Friesen
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- February 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195371833
- eISBN:
- 9780199865178
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195371833.003.0010
- Subject:
- Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience
The Soma model simulates the origin of the resting potential in nerve cells. Because this model demonstrates steady-state conditions, or slow changes in the steady state, the membrane capacitance is ...
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The Soma model simulates the origin of the resting potential in nerve cells. Because this model demonstrates steady-state conditions, or slow changes in the steady state, the membrane capacitance is ignored. In addition, there are no voltage- or time-dependent membrane conductances in this model. The equilibrium (Nernst) potentials for sodium, potassium, calcium, and chloride ions are calculated from the relevant ionic concentrations. The relationship between temperature and equilibrium potentials can be explored by altering the simulated temperature. This model also includes an electrogenic pump, which generates a net outflow of positive ions and therefore acts to hyperpolarize the membrane.Less
The Soma model simulates the origin of the resting potential in nerve cells. Because this model demonstrates steady-state conditions, or slow changes in the steady state, the membrane capacitance is ignored. In addition, there are no voltage- or time-dependent membrane conductances in this model. The equilibrium (Nernst) potentials for sodium, potassium, calcium, and chloride ions are calculated from the relevant ionic concentrations. The relationship between temperature and equilibrium potentials can be explored by altering the simulated temperature. This model also includes an electrogenic pump, which generates a net outflow of positive ions and therefore acts to hyperpolarize the membrane.
W. Otto Friesen and Jonathon A. Friesen
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- February 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195371833
- eISBN:
- 9780199865178
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195371833.003.0018
- Subject:
- Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience
The Soma model illustrates the origins of the membrane potential based on the parallel conductance model, with the capacitor not included in the simulation. In addition, none of the membrane ...
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The Soma model illustrates the origins of the membrane potential based on the parallel conductance model, with the capacitor not included in the simulation. In addition, none of the membrane conductances are voltage dependent. This chapter describes the equations underlying the resting potential, based on the fundamental Nernst equation, which gives the relationship between ionic concentrations and electrical potential.Less
The Soma model illustrates the origins of the membrane potential based on the parallel conductance model, with the capacitor not included in the simulation. In addition, none of the membrane conductances are voltage dependent. This chapter describes the equations underlying the resting potential, based on the fundamental Nernst equation, which gives the relationship between ionic concentrations and electrical potential.
Pierluigi Frisco
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780199542864
- eISBN:
- 9780191715679
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199542864.003.0001
- Subject:
- Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Mathematical Biology
This chapter gives a very brief introduction to computability emphasising concepts playing an important role here. The chapter describes how in the 1920s the interest of Alan Turing in describing in ...
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This chapter gives a very brief introduction to computability emphasising concepts playing an important role here. The chapter describes how in the 1920s the interest of Alan Turing in describing in mathematical terms the activity of computers, clerks performing computations, led to the definition of an abstract device called a Turing machine, to the start the study of computability and to the enunciation of the Church-Turing thesis. In a similar way the chapter indicates how in 2000 the internal organization of eukariotic cells inspired Gheorghe Păun to define membrane systems, also called P systems, where ‘P’ stands for ‘Păun’. Moreover, the chapter explains some of the advantages offered by membrane computing, the field of research using membrane systems to define computability models in order to study computation and computational complexity issues and to model processes of biology, linguistics, economics, etc., with respect to more classical approaches.Less
This chapter gives a very brief introduction to computability emphasising concepts playing an important role here. The chapter describes how in the 1920s the interest of Alan Turing in describing in mathematical terms the activity of computers, clerks performing computations, led to the definition of an abstract device called a Turing machine, to the start the study of computability and to the enunciation of the Church-Turing thesis. In a similar way the chapter indicates how in 2000 the internal organization of eukariotic cells inspired Gheorghe Păun to define membrane systems, also called P systems, where ‘P’ stands for ‘Păun’. Moreover, the chapter explains some of the advantages offered by membrane computing, the field of research using membrane systems to define computability models in order to study computation and computational complexity issues and to model processes of biology, linguistics, economics, etc., with respect to more classical approaches.
Roger D. Roger and Miles A. Whittington
- Published in print:
- 2010
- Published Online:
- May 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195342796
- eISBN:
- 9780199776276
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195342796.003.0008
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Molecular and Cellular Systems, Development
The complexity of behavior of single neurons derives from a number a factors: they have complicated shapes; voltage-dependent conductances have intricate properties, and the conductances are ...
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The complexity of behavior of single neurons derives from a number a factors: they have complicated shapes; voltage-dependent conductances have intricate properties, and the conductances are distributed across the membrane with non-uniform densities; and synaptic conductances operate on many different time scales. Furthermore, each type of neuron has its own repertoire of shape, channel distribution, synaptic receptors, and firing properties.Less
The complexity of behavior of single neurons derives from a number a factors: they have complicated shapes; voltage-dependent conductances have intricate properties, and the conductances are distributed across the membrane with non-uniform densities; and synaptic conductances operate on many different time scales. Furthermore, each type of neuron has its own repertoire of shape, channel distribution, synaptic receptors, and firing properties.
John R. B. Lighton
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- September 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780195310610
- eISBN:
- 9780199871414
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195310610.003.0017
- Subject:
- Biology, Animal Biology, Biotechnology
This chapter discusses several often-neglected areas of respirometry infrastructure. These include the correct selection of scrubber chemicals for removing water vapor and/or carbon dioxide from ...
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This chapter discusses several often-neglected areas of respirometry infrastructure. These include the correct selection of scrubber chemicals for removing water vapor and/or carbon dioxide from airstreams, without undesirable interactions; chemical-free scrubbing techniques such as selective membranes and thermal condensing systems; selecting tubing; evaluating the different tubing chemistries in light of the intended application; selecting appropriate tubing diameters; selecting tubing connectors; maintaining connector gender conventions, and other related topics.Less
This chapter discusses several often-neglected areas of respirometry infrastructure. These include the correct selection of scrubber chemicals for removing water vapor and/or carbon dioxide from airstreams, without undesirable interactions; chemical-free scrubbing techniques such as selective membranes and thermal condensing systems; selecting tubing; evaluating the different tubing chemistries in light of the intended application; selecting appropriate tubing diameters; selecting tubing connectors; maintaining connector gender conventions, and other related topics.
Yiannis A. Ioannou
- Published in print:
- 2004
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780198508786
- eISBN:
- 9780191723803
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198508786.003.0009
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Disorders of the Nervous System
This chapter discusses defects in transmembrane proteins. Topics covered include the endosomal/lysosomal v-ATPase, Niemann–Pick C disease, Batten disease, Salla disease, Danon disease, cystinosis, ...
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This chapter discusses defects in transmembrane proteins. Topics covered include the endosomal/lysosomal v-ATPase, Niemann–Pick C disease, Batten disease, Salla disease, Danon disease, cystinosis, and mucolipidosis type IV. A theme beginning to emerge from studies of transmembrane proteins is the apparent complexity of their regulation and function(s). Disease pathogenesis is not caused simply by abnormal accumulation of metabolites. A fact that is often overlooked is that these proteins exhibit a symport or antiport activity in order to power transport. The importance of this activity and the consequences of disrupting it have not been addressed. However, these activities almost certainly balance and regulate the activity of the v-ATPase to maintain the delicate electrochemical gradient across the endosomal/lysosomal membranes.Less
This chapter discusses defects in transmembrane proteins. Topics covered include the endosomal/lysosomal v-ATPase, Niemann–Pick C disease, Batten disease, Salla disease, Danon disease, cystinosis, and mucolipidosis type IV. A theme beginning to emerge from studies of transmembrane proteins is the apparent complexity of their regulation and function(s). Disease pathogenesis is not caused simply by abnormal accumulation of metabolites. A fact that is often overlooked is that these proteins exhibit a symport or antiport activity in order to power transport. The importance of this activity and the consequences of disrupting it have not been addressed. However, these activities almost certainly balance and regulate the activity of the v-ATPase to maintain the delicate electrochemical gradient across the endosomal/lysosomal membranes.
Kyösti Kontturi, Lasse Murtomäki, and José A. Manzanares
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- September 2008
- ISBN:
- 9780199533817
- eISBN:
- 9780191714825
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199533817.003.0004
- Subject:
- Physics, Condensed Matter Physics / Materials
This chapter describes transport processes in membrane systems. The emphasis is made on stationary processes, although some examples of the solution of the transport equations in transient conditions ...
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This chapter describes transport processes in membrane systems. The emphasis is made on stationary processes, although some examples of the solution of the transport equations in transient conditions are also worked out. Homogeneous and porous membranes, both neutral and charged, are considered. The transport through neutral porous membranes under applied concentration gradients, electric current, and pressure gradient is described. The use of mass balances to analyse the changes in the bathing solution concentration receives particular attention. Donnan equilibria and the description of the electrical double layer at the membrane¦external solution interfaces are then presented. Transport through homogeneous charged membranes is thoroughly explained. The solution of the transport equations in multi-ionic systems is worked out in detail and applied to the study of classical topics, such as the bi-ionic potential and uphill transport. The influence of the diffusion boundary layers on the membrane permselectivity is analysed. Finally, transport through charged porous membranes is described from a very practical point of view. The space charge model is briefly explained.Less
This chapter describes transport processes in membrane systems. The emphasis is made on stationary processes, although some examples of the solution of the transport equations in transient conditions are also worked out. Homogeneous and porous membranes, both neutral and charged, are considered. The transport through neutral porous membranes under applied concentration gradients, electric current, and pressure gradient is described. The use of mass balances to analyse the changes in the bathing solution concentration receives particular attention. Donnan equilibria and the description of the electrical double layer at the membrane¦external solution interfaces are then presented. Transport through homogeneous charged membranes is thoroughly explained. The solution of the transport equations in multi-ionic systems is worked out in detail and applied to the study of classical topics, such as the bi-ionic potential and uphill transport. The influence of the diffusion boundary layers on the membrane permselectivity is analysed. Finally, transport through charged porous membranes is described from a very practical point of view. The space charge model is briefly explained.
Christopher L-H. Huang
- Published in print:
- 1993
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780198577492
- eISBN:
- 9780191724190
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198577492.003.0003
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Molecular and Cellular Systems
This chapter explores the capacitative properties of biological membranes and provides ways to measure the membrane capacitance in striated muscle. The capacitance of a bilayer is inversely related ...
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This chapter explores the capacitative properties of biological membranes and provides ways to measure the membrane capacitance in striated muscle. The capacitance of a bilayer is inversely related to the chain length of its constituent hydrocarbons, and the latter is in turn proportional to bilayer thickness. The nature of the polar head groups does not greatly affect membrane capacitance. Skeletal muscle membranes form a network of 50-nm diameter branching tubules penetrating into the fibre whose lumina are continuous with extracellular fluid. Such a system would intrinsically have particular capacitative properties. Using the Laplace transform, a square-root relationship between membrane impedance properties and the input parameters is found. The ‘lumped’ four-component model offers the simplest available electrical description of striated muscle membrane geometry. In contrast, distributed models represent the transverse tubules as a cable system that allows radial voltage differences. Lattice models have proven useful in both the interpretation of the measurements of linear capacitances and the localization of non-linear charge to different regions of membrane. The chapter also discusses voltage-clamp methods for studying the dielectric properties of skeletal muscle. Each voltage-clamp method has characteristic advantages and limitations. The most appropriate equivalent circuit to represent the transverse tubular system remains incompletely resolved. The cable properties of tubular membrane necessitate an operational definition of measured effective capacitance arising from an application of the properties of the Laplace transform to a general circuit network. The studies suggest that, at least through the frequency range over which charge movements have been measured, the effective capacitance accurately reflects the properties of the actual electrical elements of surface or tubular membrane, given appropriate bathing solutions and voltage-clamp geometry.Less
This chapter explores the capacitative properties of biological membranes and provides ways to measure the membrane capacitance in striated muscle. The capacitance of a bilayer is inversely related to the chain length of its constituent hydrocarbons, and the latter is in turn proportional to bilayer thickness. The nature of the polar head groups does not greatly affect membrane capacitance. Skeletal muscle membranes form a network of 50-nm diameter branching tubules penetrating into the fibre whose lumina are continuous with extracellular fluid. Such a system would intrinsically have particular capacitative properties. Using the Laplace transform, a square-root relationship between membrane impedance properties and the input parameters is found. The ‘lumped’ four-component model offers the simplest available electrical description of striated muscle membrane geometry. In contrast, distributed models represent the transverse tubules as a cable system that allows radial voltage differences. Lattice models have proven useful in both the interpretation of the measurements of linear capacitances and the localization of non-linear charge to different regions of membrane. The chapter also discusses voltage-clamp methods for studying the dielectric properties of skeletal muscle. Each voltage-clamp method has characteristic advantages and limitations. The most appropriate equivalent circuit to represent the transverse tubular system remains incompletely resolved. The cable properties of tubular membrane necessitate an operational definition of measured effective capacitance arising from an application of the properties of the Laplace transform to a general circuit network. The studies suggest that, at least through the frequency range over which charge movements have been measured, the effective capacitance accurately reflects the properties of the actual electrical elements of surface or tubular membrane, given appropriate bathing solutions and voltage-clamp geometry.
Christopher L-H. Huang
- Published in print:
- 1993
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780198577492
- eISBN:
- 9780191724190
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198577492.003.0009
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Molecular and Cellular Systems
This chapter provides simple kinetic treatments of intramembrane charge properties with a view to realistically characterizing underlying mechanisms, beginning with simple linear descriptions of the ...
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This chapter provides simple kinetic treatments of intramembrane charge properties with a view to realistically characterizing underlying mechanisms, beginning with simple linear descriptions of the time course of capacity currents to provide limiting schemes as a basis for subsequent discussion. Simple linear models, or their direct variants, do not account for even major features of the membrane currents. Nevertheless, these models provide a useful starting point for further analysis. The chapter then introduces more complex, if somewhat speculative, descriptions that may form the basis for further investigation of voltage-regulated physiological processes. The basic rate equations are elaborated by higher-order terms. The formalisms implicit in this treatment can be adapted to a simple two-level model in which the intervening energy barrier would fall successively with ON charge transfer, so enhancing further charge movement. An analytic treatment of membrane dielectric behaviour is applied to the transient responses of striated muscle membrane obtained by small applied voltage steps. This is achieved through an extension of Fourier's integral theorem to discrete time series of infinite period. The frequency resolution obtained made it possible to attribute simple dielectric loss peaks and straightforward arc loci to the q ß system. The Hodgkin-Huxley scheme is described and its limitations highlighted. Charge movements reflect configurational changes in integral membrane proteins exposed to the transmembrane electric field. Accordingly, a more general kinetic analysis is needed to examine their dielectric properties as a function of frequency at different potentials. The real part of such complex dielectric spectra would normally decline monotonically from a zero frequency value corresponding to the maximum available capacitative charge.Less
This chapter provides simple kinetic treatments of intramembrane charge properties with a view to realistically characterizing underlying mechanisms, beginning with simple linear descriptions of the time course of capacity currents to provide limiting schemes as a basis for subsequent discussion. Simple linear models, or their direct variants, do not account for even major features of the membrane currents. Nevertheless, these models provide a useful starting point for further analysis. The chapter then introduces more complex, if somewhat speculative, descriptions that may form the basis for further investigation of voltage-regulated physiological processes. The basic rate equations are elaborated by higher-order terms. The formalisms implicit in this treatment can be adapted to a simple two-level model in which the intervening energy barrier would fall successively with ON charge transfer, so enhancing further charge movement. An analytic treatment of membrane dielectric behaviour is applied to the transient responses of striated muscle membrane obtained by small applied voltage steps. This is achieved through an extension of Fourier's integral theorem to discrete time series of infinite period. The frequency resolution obtained made it possible to attribute simple dielectric loss peaks and straightforward arc loci to the q ß system. The Hodgkin-Huxley scheme is described and its limitations highlighted. Charge movements reflect configurational changes in integral membrane proteins exposed to the transmembrane electric field. Accordingly, a more general kinetic analysis is needed to examine their dielectric properties as a function of frequency at different potentials. The real part of such complex dielectric spectra would normally decline monotonically from a zero frequency value corresponding to the maximum available capacitative charge.
Pierluigi Frisco
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780199542864
- eISBN:
- 9780191715679
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199542864.003.0006
- Subject:
- Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Mathematical Biology
A specific kind of chemical reaction, biochemical reactions involving catalysts, inspired the model of membrane systems, called P systems with catalysts, are considered in this chapter. Some of these ...
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A specific kind of chemical reaction, biochemical reactions involving catalysts, inspired the model of membrane systems, called P systems with catalysts, are considered in this chapter. Some of these devices do not have several of the features shared by the majority of the models of membrane systems. For instance, the environment, a compartment with symbols present in an unbounded amount, is not present. Often also the underlying topological structure is absent, that is, it ‘collapses’ to just one compartment (so, no passage of symbols between compartments). The resulting membrane systems are then multiset rewriting systems.Less
A specific kind of chemical reaction, biochemical reactions involving catalysts, inspired the model of membrane systems, called P systems with catalysts, are considered in this chapter. Some of these devices do not have several of the features shared by the majority of the models of membrane systems. For instance, the environment, a compartment with symbols present in an unbounded amount, is not present. Often also the underlying topological structure is absent, that is, it ‘collapses’ to just one compartment (so, no passage of symbols between compartments). The resulting membrane systems are then multiset rewriting systems.
Pierluigi Frisco
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780199542864
- eISBN:
- 9780191715679
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199542864.003.0010
- Subject:
- Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Mathematical Biology
This chapter considers P systems with active membranes, a model of membrane systems able to modify their underlying structure while computing: membranes, and related compartments, can be created or ...
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This chapter considers P systems with active membranes, a model of membrane systems able to modify their underlying structure while computing: membranes, and related compartments, can be created or dissolved. This chapter describes how some biological process and phenomena have been of inspiration for the description of models of membrane systems that in turn allowed the definition of new computational complexity classes. The chapter presents results concerning the computational complexity of the resulting abstract systems.Less
This chapter considers P systems with active membranes, a model of membrane systems able to modify their underlying structure while computing: membranes, and related compartments, can be created or dissolved. This chapter describes how some biological process and phenomena have been of inspiration for the description of models of membrane systems that in turn allowed the definition of new computational complexity classes. The chapter presents results concerning the computational complexity of the resulting abstract systems.
W. Otto Friesen and Jonathon A. Friesen
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- February 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195371833
- eISBN:
- 9780199865178
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195371833.003.0003
- Subject:
- Psychology, Cognitive Neuroscience
Thanks to the pioneering experiments of the Italian physician Luigi Galvani, it has long been understood that electricity plays a vital role in the functioning of the nervous system. That these ...
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Thanks to the pioneering experiments of the Italian physician Luigi Galvani, it has long been understood that electricity plays a vital role in the functioning of the nervous system. That these electrical signals are intrinsic to animal tissues was demonstrated by the German electrophysiologist du Bois Reymond, who showed that cells have a “resting” potential, the constant voltage across the cell membrane in the absence of stimulation. This chapter describes the Nernst equation, which predicts the strength of electrical potentials that arise from ionic concentrations differences across membranes. The fundamental role of the Nernst equation for electrophysiology is presented in relationship to the parallel conductance model for the cell membrane potential. Basic equations for resting potential, including the role of the electrogenic membrane ion pump, are presented.Less
Thanks to the pioneering experiments of the Italian physician Luigi Galvani, it has long been understood that electricity plays a vital role in the functioning of the nervous system. That these electrical signals are intrinsic to animal tissues was demonstrated by the German electrophysiologist du Bois Reymond, who showed that cells have a “resting” potential, the constant voltage across the cell membrane in the absence of stimulation. This chapter describes the Nernst equation, which predicts the strength of electrical potentials that arise from ionic concentrations differences across membranes. The fundamental role of the Nernst equation for electrophysiology is presented in relationship to the parallel conductance model for the cell membrane potential. Basic equations for resting potential, including the role of the electrogenic membrane ion pump, are presented.
Marc-Olivier Coppens
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- February 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780199233854
- eISBN:
- 9780191715532
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199233854.003.0016
- Subject:
- Mathematics, Applied Mathematics
Symmetry is key in solving many scientific and engineering problems. Drawing on examples from chemical engineering, this chapter illustrates how recognizing fractal scaling and other invariant ...
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Symmetry is key in solving many scientific and engineering problems. Drawing on examples from chemical engineering, this chapter illustrates how recognizing fractal scaling and other invariant patterns that envelop multiple scales is an excellent way to bridge multi-scale gaps. Such invariants are frequently observed in biological systems, which are only able to function thanks to the conservation of microscopic properties up to macroscopic scales in a scale-free way. Similarly, by imposing such invariant distributions in engineering designs, the advantages of microscopic (micro- or nanoscale) designs are preserved for macro-scale applications, while considerably reducing complexity and increasing efficiency. This holistic view helps to simplify multi-scale problems, and is proposed as a useful supplement to atomistic, bottom-up approaches.Less
Symmetry is key in solving many scientific and engineering problems. Drawing on examples from chemical engineering, this chapter illustrates how recognizing fractal scaling and other invariant patterns that envelop multiple scales is an excellent way to bridge multi-scale gaps. Such invariants are frequently observed in biological systems, which are only able to function thanks to the conservation of microscopic properties up to macroscopic scales in a scale-free way. Similarly, by imposing such invariant distributions in engineering designs, the advantages of microscopic (micro- or nanoscale) designs are preserved for macro-scale applications, while considerably reducing complexity and increasing efficiency. This holistic view helps to simplify multi-scale problems, and is proposed as a useful supplement to atomistic, bottom-up approaches.
R. Wayne Davies and Thora A. Glencorse
- Published in print:
- 2004
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780198509981
- eISBN:
- 9780191723810
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198509981.003.0008
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Molecular and Cellular Systems
Fast synaptic transmission is crucial for real-time functioning of the brain. All the receptor molecules that mediate fast transmission events are also ligand-gated ion channels, i.e., they are ion ...
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Fast synaptic transmission is crucial for real-time functioning of the brain. All the receptor molecules that mediate fast transmission events are also ligand-gated ion channels, i.e., they are ion channels that undergo allosteric structural changes on binding a particular neurotransmitter molecule, resulting in the opening of the channel, the entry of selected ions into the neuron and subsequent signalling events. Their primary function is to receive signal input at postsynaptic membranes, where some also play central roles in synaptic plasticity. However, they are also found in postsynaptic membranes outside synapses, and in presynaptic terminals, where they are involved in the control of transmitter release. This chapter presents an overview of current knowledge of the molecular biology of these receptors.Less
Fast synaptic transmission is crucial for real-time functioning of the brain. All the receptor molecules that mediate fast transmission events are also ligand-gated ion channels, i.e., they are ion channels that undergo allosteric structural changes on binding a particular neurotransmitter molecule, resulting in the opening of the channel, the entry of selected ions into the neuron and subsequent signalling events. Their primary function is to receive signal input at postsynaptic membranes, where some also play central roles in synaptic plasticity. However, they are also found in postsynaptic membranes outside synapses, and in presynaptic terminals, where they are involved in the control of transmitter release. This chapter presents an overview of current knowledge of the molecular biology of these receptors.
Daniel Kernell
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780198526551
- eISBN:
- 9780191723896
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198526551.003.0002
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Molecular and Cellular Systems
This is a tutorial chapter, mainly aiming to introduce the neuromuscular system. Treated items include basic aspects of skeletal muscle and peripheral axon physiology, principles of sensory and motor ...
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This is a tutorial chapter, mainly aiming to introduce the neuromuscular system. Treated items include basic aspects of skeletal muscle and peripheral axon physiology, principles of sensory and motor muscle innervation, and (very briefly) some general points concerning motor functions of the central nervous system. For muscles, items include: muscle metabolism, excitation-contraction coupling, and the mechanisms for force generation. For axons, items include: intra-axonal transport processes, membrane properties, and the mechanisms and speed of the axonal conduction of action potentials (spikes). The different motor unit and muscle fibre types of limb muscles are introduced and a brief description is given of electromyographic techniques for recording motor unit activity.Less
This is a tutorial chapter, mainly aiming to introduce the neuromuscular system. Treated items include basic aspects of skeletal muscle and peripheral axon physiology, principles of sensory and motor muscle innervation, and (very briefly) some general points concerning motor functions of the central nervous system. For muscles, items include: muscle metabolism, excitation-contraction coupling, and the mechanisms for force generation. For axons, items include: intra-axonal transport processes, membrane properties, and the mechanisms and speed of the axonal conduction of action potentials (spikes). The different motor unit and muscle fibre types of limb muscles are introduced and a brief description is given of electromyographic techniques for recording motor unit activity.
Daniel Kernell
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780198526551
- eISBN:
- 9780191723896
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780198526551.003.0006
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Molecular and Cellular Systems
In the soma-dendrite region of a motoneurone, a spike is succeeded by a long-lasting afterhyperpolarization (AHP), which is important for the characteristics of maintained repetitive spike ...
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In the soma-dendrite region of a motoneurone, a spike is succeeded by a long-lasting afterhyperpolarization (AHP), which is important for the characteristics of maintained repetitive spike discharges. Such discharges may be evoked by steady depolarizing (inward) currents of appropriate intensity, and the relation between spike-frequency and current may have a steeper slope for high than for lower frequencies (secondary and primary range). During stimulation with steady current, there is a rapid initial and a slower late phase of spike-frequency adaptation. Potential-dependent ion channels may give rise to persistent inward currrents (PICs) which add to excitatory synaptic currents driving a discharge. Motoneurones are unusually well known with regard to the matching between their electrophysiological activation properties (e.g., range of spike frequencies, duration of AHP; input resistance, membrane resistivity, threshold current for activation) and the functional characteristics of their main target cells (the skeletal muscle fibres).Less
In the soma-dendrite region of a motoneurone, a spike is succeeded by a long-lasting afterhyperpolarization (AHP), which is important for the characteristics of maintained repetitive spike discharges. Such discharges may be evoked by steady depolarizing (inward) currents of appropriate intensity, and the relation between spike-frequency and current may have a steeper slope for high than for lower frequencies (secondary and primary range). During stimulation with steady current, there is a rapid initial and a slower late phase of spike-frequency adaptation. Potential-dependent ion channels may give rise to persistent inward currrents (PICs) which add to excitatory synaptic currents driving a discharge. Motoneurones are unusually well known with regard to the matching between their electrophysiological activation properties (e.g., range of spike frequencies, duration of AHP; input resistance, membrane resistivity, threshold current for activation) and the functional characteristics of their main target cells (the skeletal muscle fibres).
