Lev Murokh (Queens College of the City University of New York)

Abstract:
Living objects at the nanoscale can be viewed as molecular complexes, whose dynamics is often controlled by the transfer of single charges or single-photon absorption events. In many senses, it is similar to the principles of operation of semiconductor nanostructures and elements of molecular electronics. Correspondingly, the methods of condensed matter and statistical physics can be applied.

In this talk, I address proton-pumping complexes and proton-driven nanomotor of the mitochondria membranes. These systems convert the energy obtained from the food to the proton gradient across the membrane, to the mechanical rotation of the nanomotor, and, finally, to the energy of chemical compounds. We propose simple physical models for these complexes which not only allow the quantitative description but can inspire the implementations in nanoelectronics as well.


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Date & time: 14/04/2014 at 10:30.

Location: Seminar Room (2.8.3), Physics Department, Instituto Superior Técnico, Lisbon.

Patrícia Figueiredo (ISR, IST, University of Lisbon)

Abstract:
Current neuroimaging techniques allow the noninvasive mapping of human brain networks, with progressively better temporal and spatial resolution. In this talk, I will address the critical problem of relating the electrophysiological and haemodynamic correlates of such networks that are mapped using different techniques. I will first overview my research on the combination of multiple functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) methodologies for obtaining physiologically meaningful and reliable haemodynamic measures. I will then talk about the simultaneous acquisition of the electroencephalogram (EEG) with fMRI, with the aim of directly relating electrophysiological and haemodynamic measures of brain function. Overall, these developments should not only help elucidate healthy brain networks, but also contribute to the identification of biomarkers for specific neurological and psychiatric diseases.


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Date & time: 04/04/2014 at 15:00.

Location: Seminar Room (2.8.3), Physics Department, Instituto Superior Técnico, Lisbon.