Search PubMed⌕ Search

SEARCH · Search PubMed

Results for “model system”

Search indexed PubMed citations on genomics, clinical trials, systematic reviews and public health. Explore titles, authors and supplied subject terms, then open the PubMed record.

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

At least 253 records · Page 14Linked to original sources
PubMed1998

Electrophorus electricus as a model system for the study of membrane excitability.

The stunning sensations produced by electric fish, particularly the electric eel, Electrophorus electricus, have fascinated scientists for centuries. Within the last 50 years, however, electric cells of Electrophorus have provided a unique model system that is both specialized and appropriate for the study of excitable cell membrane electrophysiology and biochemistry. Electric tissue generates whole animal electrical discharges by means of membrane potentials that are remarkably similar to those of mammalian neurons, myocytes and secretory cells. Electrocytes express ion channels, ATPases and signal transduction proteins common to these other excitable cells. Action potentials of electrocytes represent the specialized end function of electric tissue whereas other excitable cells use membrane potential changes to trigger sophisticated cellular processes, such as myofilament cross-bridging for contraction, or exocytosis for secretion. Because electric tissue lacks these functions and the proteins associated with them, it provides a highly specialized membrane model system. This review examines the basic mechanisms involved in the generation of the electrical discharge of the electric eel and the membrane proteins involved. The valuable contributions that electric tissue continues to make toward the understanding of excitable cell physiology and biochemistry are summarized, particularly those studies using electrocytes as a model system for the study of the regulation of membrane excitability by second messengers and signal transduction pathways.

Animals↗
PubMed2004

Incorporation and analysis of LHCII in model systems.

The largest light-harvesting pigment-protein complex of Photosystem II (LHCII) is an antenna complex comprising more than half of photosynthetically active chlorophyll pigments. Understanding photophysical processes in this pigment-protein complex and the relationship between the structure and function of LHCII has been the subject of numerous studies, including those in the model systems, such as monomolecular layers, Langmuir-Blodgett films, planar lipid bilayers, and liposomes. This chapter describes the methods of the incorporation of LHCII into these particular model systems, control of intactness of LHCII after incorporation, and the examination of this pigment-protein complex in model systems.

Light-Harvesting Protein Complexes↗
PubMedDate not supplied

Telomere lengths and telomerase activity in dog tissues: a potential model system to study human telomere and telomerase biology.

Studies on telomere and telomerase biology are fundamental to the understanding of aging and age-related diseases such as cancer. However, human studies have been hindered by differences in telomere biology between humans and the classical murine animal model system. In this paper, we describe basic studies of telomere length and telomerase activity in canine normal and neoplastic tissues and propose the dog as an alternative model system. Briefly, telomere lengths were measured in normal canine peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), a range of normal canine tissues, and in a panel of naturally occurring soft tissue tumours by terminal restriction fragment (TRF) analysis. Further, telomerase activity was measured in canine cell lines and multiple canine tissues using a combined polymerase chain reaction/enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. TRF analysis in canine PBMCs and tissues demonstrated mean TRF lengths to range between 12 and 23 kbp with heterogeneity in telomere lengths being observed in a range of normal somatic tissues. In soft tissue sarcomas, two subgroups were identified with mean TRFs of 22.2 and 18.2 kbp. Telomerase activity in canine tissue was present in tumour tissue and testis with little or no activity in normal somatic tissues. These results suggest that the dog telomere biology is similar to that in humans and may represent an alternative model system for studying telomere biology and telomerase-targeted anticancer therapies.

Age Factors↗
PubMed2002

The p23 co-chaperone facilitates dioxin receptor signaling in a yeast model system.

Hsp90, p23 and other chaperosome proteins are critical for the function of several enzymes and steroid hormone receptors. The dioxin receptor (DR) is an Hsp90-regulated transcription factor that binds numerous toxic ligands, including the environmental contaminant 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo(p)dioxin. We used a yeast model system that expressed human DR and Arnt proteins to test whether p23 affected DR signaling. Deletion of the SBA1 gene (yeast p23 homolog) in this model system reduced ligand-mediated DR signaling by approximately 40% and shifted the EC(50) of the beta-napthoflavone ligand by five-fold in a reporter gene assay. DR signaling was restored in the sba1 strain by a plasmid-borne SBA1 gene, confirming that the signaling defect was due to SBA1. The human p23 protein substituted for yeast Sba1 protein in this model system. These genetic data show that p23 enhances DR signaling.

Amino Acid Sequence↗
PubMed2001

Neurovascular coupling in terms of a control system: validation of a second-order linear system model.

Neurovascular coupling (NC) adapts cerebral blood flow to cortical activity. Functional transcranial Doppler (f-TCD) investigations revealed a typical time course of evoked blood flow responses with an initial overshoot and a stabilization at a lower, but stable, level. This blood flow reaction can be described in terms of a control-system model. We tested reliability and validity of this new approach using different stimulation paradigms. The P2 segment of the posterior cerebral artery was insonated in 14 healthy volunteers and, subsequently, NC was stimulated using two tests, a checkerboard stimulus of 1 s with different repetition rates and a reading test. Data were analyzed according to algorithms of control-system theory. The reading test was used to measure test reliability and side differences. A second-order linear system can describe blood flow regulation of NC. Different stimulation protocols of the checkerboard test and the related evoked blood flow curves could be described by the same control-system model. Further, there were no differences between the checkerboard and reading test nor between right and left side or test and retest of the reading test. NC can be described in a much more detailed manner using control-system analysis. We were able to show that blood flow response due to different visual stimuli follow one common control-system model. Unlike quantification of NC using overshoot, parameters of the control system have smaller SDs, increasing the statistical power and, thereby, usefulness of f-TCD as a diagnostic instrument.

Adult↗
PubMed1994

Growth modelling of Listeria monocytogenes and Yersinia enterocolitica in food model systems and dairy products.

The growth potential of Listeria monocytogenes, measured with a gaschromatographic method, was evaluated in model systems simulating dairy products in which NaCl concentration, pH and lipid concentration ranged from values corresponding to matured hard cheeses to some light cheeses and other dairy products. The growth data from the model systems, calculated on the basis of the polynomial models obtained, were compared with values observed for dairy products. Growth parameters of Yersinia enterocolitica in traditional and light cheeses were also available. The comparison between predicted and observed data suggested that individual or interactive effects of chemicophysical variables such as pH, salt and lipid concentration are not sufficient to predict the fate of L. monocytogenes in dairy products. Microstructural factors as well as the pH effect on water binding capacity of proteins could also be implicated.

Cheese↗
PubMed2001

Spatiotemporal stochastic resonance and its consequences in neural model systems.

The realization of spatiotemporal stochastic resonance is studied in a two-dimensional FitzHugh-Nagumo system, and in a one-dimensional system of integrate-and-fire neurons. We show that spatiotemporal stochastic resonance occurs in these neural model systems, independent of the method of modeling. Moreover, the ways of realization are analogous in the two model systems. The biological implications and open questions are discussed. (c) 2001 American Institute of Physics.

Journal Article↗
PubMedDate not supplied

Effects of industrially produced flavours with pro- and antioxidative properties on the formation of the heterocyclic amine PhIP in a model system.

PhIP (2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine) is a heterocyclic aromatic amine belonging to a class of mutagens found in food. This project studied the effects of commercially available flavours of spices on the formation of PhIP, one of the most common heterocyclic aromatic amines in heated meat and fish products. The model reactions were carried out in diethylene glycol. Highest amounts of PhIP were obtained at 200 degrees C, a heating time of 60 min and an equivalent molar ratio of phenylalanine and creatinine. With this model system, the influence of Monascus red and flavours extracted from thyme, marjoram and rosemary on the formation of PhIP was tested. The flavours were added to the model system in different amounts. The oxidative properties were determined with the rancimat method. It was shown that all tested products, independent of their pro- or antioxidative properties, increased PhIP in the model system.

Antioxidants↗
PubMed2004

A complex systems model approach to quantified mineral resource appraisal.

For federal and state land management agencies, mineral resource appraisal has evolved from value-based to outcome-based procedures wherein the consequences of resource development are compared with those of other management options. Complex systems modeling is proposed as a general framework in which to build models that can evaluate outcomes. Three frequently used methods of mineral resource appraisal (subjective probabilistic estimates, weights of evidence modeling, and fuzzy logic modeling) are discussed to obtain insight into methods of incorporating complexity into mineral resource appraisal models. Fuzzy logic and weights of evidence are most easily utilized in complex systems models. A fundamental product of new appraisals is the production of reusable, accessible databases and methodologies so that appraisals can easily be repeated with new or refined data. The data are representations of complex systems and must be so regarded if all of their information content is to be utilized. The proposed generalized model framework is applicable to mineral assessment and other geoscience problems. We begin with a (fuzzy) cognitive map using (+1,0,-1) values for the links and evaluate the map for various scenarios to obtain a ranking of the importance of various links. Fieldwork and modeling studies identify important links and help identify unanticipated links. Next, the links are given membership functions in accordance with the data. Finally, processes are associated with the links; ideally, the controlling physical and chemical events and equations are found for each link. After calibration and testing, this complex systems model is used for predictions under various scenarios.

Conservation of Natural Resources↗
PubMed1994

The future of dynamic systems models in developmental psychology in the light of the past.

A compact glance at the history and impact of mathematical models in development provides background for predicting the fate of dynamical systems modeling in developmental psychology. Dynamic models are considered and the articles by Thelen and Ulrich (1991) and van Geert (1991) are summarized. Deterministic and probabilistic models are compared and some cautions are presented along with a consideration of forms that can be attained by linear models in comparison to those well known in logistic difference models. Reactions to the research by Rabinowitz, Grant, Howe, and Walsh; Kreindler and Lumsden; and Cooney and Troyer are given, with some concluding remarks on survival of dynamical systems modeling in developmental psychology.

Child↗
PubMed1991

The use of bacteriophage MS2 as a model system to evaluate virucidal hand disinfectants.

A model system which would closely reflect the resistance of poliovirus but could be easily performed in any microbiology laboratory would offer considerable advantages for rapidly screening hand decontamination products. The use of the bacteriophage MS2 as a simple model for virucidal testing has been evaluated. In suspension tests the sensitivity of MS2 to alcohols, organic acids and alkalis generally reflected that observed in studies using poliovirus. MS2 could be applied and recovered from the hands of volunteers with high efficiency. Furthermore MS2 proved to be a suitable replacement for Escherichia coli in a standard hand-decontamination test.

Acids↗
PubMed1993

Evidence of early topographic organization in the embryonic olivocerebellar projection: a model system for the study of pattern formation processes in the central nervous system.

Many projection systems within the peripheral and central nervous system are topographically organized, and it has become increasingly clear that interactions which occur during development determine the projection patterns these systems exhibit in the adult. The olivocerebellar system was chosen as a model system for this study of afferent pattern formation because it has several characteristics which lend themselves to a study of this type. Applications of horseradish peroxidase were made to both the cerebellar primordium and to the inferior olive of embryonic and neonatal mice using an in vitro perfusion system to support the tissue during the transport period. Fibers labeled after restricted olivary applications are limited to particular mediolateral regions of the cerebellum. Similarly, olivary cells retrogradely labeled after discrete cerebellar applications are restricted to particular olivary subdivisions. The results indicate that the olivocerebellar projection displays elements of topographic organization as early as E15 and that the pattern displayed is roughly comparable to that of the adult mammal. The observed trajectories of olivocerebellar fibers and their concomitant association with both Purkinje and cerebellar nuclear cells during embryonic development suggests a role for either or both cell types in the pattern formation process.

Animals↗
PubMed2002

Antioxidant effect of beta-carotene on lipid peroxidation and synergism with tocopherol in an emulsified linoleic acid model system.

The antioxidant effect of beta-carotene was investigated in an emulsified linoleic acid model system with or without exposure to light. The effect of tocopherol on the antioxidant action of beta-carotene was also investigated. The antioxidant effect of beta-carotene was significant, and synergistically increased by the addition of rac alpha-tocopherol, in the dark but not in the light. It was#10; confirmed that superoxide anions (O(2)(-)) and hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) were formed during the light exposure, and that their formation could be significantly inhibited by the addition of tryptophan or mannitol, scavenger of hydroxyl radicals. These results strongly suggest direct participation of hydroxyl radicals, formed via the Haber-Weiss reaction, in the emulsified linoleic acid model system, with beta-carotene inhibition in the dark but an increase in the light. Regarding the mechanism of the antioxidant effect of beta-carotene, when beta-carotene is oxidized, the hydroperoxide in the acts as an electron acceptor and the hydroperoxide itself then decomposes.

Antioxidants↗
PubMed1996

The zebrafish as a model system in developmental, toxicological and transgenic research.

The zebrafish has long been used as a model system in fisheries biology and toxicology. More recently, it has also become the focus of a major research effort into understanding the molecular and cellular events which dictate the development of vertebrate embryos. As well, the zebrafish has proven attractive in studies examining the factors which affect the creation of transgenic fish and the expression of transgenes. The advances which have been made in these areas have firmly established this small aquarium fish as a major model system in biological and biotechnological research.

Journal Article↗
PubMed2000

Identification of new heterocyclic nitrogen compounds from glucose-lysine and xylose-lysine maillard model systems.

Aqueous sugar (glucose or xylose)-lysine model systems were heated at 80 degrees C for 6 h with the pH maintained at a predetermined value (3, 4, or 5). Selected compounds were isolated by combinations of solvent extraction and semipreparative HPLC, prior to identification by NMR and mass spectrometry. Two compounds were identified from the pH 5 glucose system and were identified as epsilon-[2-formyl-5-(hydroxymethyl)pyrrole-1-yl]-L-norleucine (pyrraline) and the new compound, 1-(5-carboxy-5-aminopentyl)-2-formyl-3-(1,2,3-trihydroxypropyl)pyrrole. A third compound was partially characterized. 2-Acetyl-5-hydroxymethyl-5,6-dihydro-4H-pyridinone was identified in the pH 3 xylose system, and the new compound, 8-furan-2-yl-methyl-5-hydroxymethyl-5,6-dihydro-indolizine-1,7-dione, was identified in the pH 4 xylose system. 2-Furfurylidene-4-hydroxy-5-methyl-3(2H)-furanone was identified in both xylose systems. Mechanisms of formation are proposed for the novel compounds.

Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid↗
PubMed1996

The Neuman systems model in research and practice.

The major focus of this article is on utilization of the Neuman systems model for nursing practice and research. The directives given will accommodate cultural variations and also serve the needs of interdisciplinary groups. The author shares views of global values for using the Neuman systems model for relevant nursing education, practice, administration, research, and international and interdisciplinary functions.

Humans↗
PubMed2004

Model systems in stem cell biology.

Stem cell scientists and ethicists have focused intently on questions relevant to the developmental stage and developmental capacities of stem cells. Comparably less attention has been paid to an equally important set of questions about the nature of stem cells, their common characteristics, their non-negligible differences and their possible developmental species specificity. Answers to these questions are essential to the project of justly inferring anything about human stem cell biology from studies in non-human model systems--and so to the possibility of eventually developing human therapies based on stem cell biology. After introducing and discussing these questions, I conclude with a brief discussion of the creation of novel model systems in stem cell biology: human-to-animal embryonic chimeras. Such novel model systems may help to overcome obstacles to extrapolation, but they are also scientifically and ethically contentious.

Animals↗