Localized ion fluxes at the plasma membrane provide electrochemical gradients at the cell surface that contribute to cell polarization, migration, and division. Ion transporters, local pH gradients, membrane potential, and organization are emerging as important factors in cell polarization mechanisms. The power of electrochemical effects is illustrated by the ability of exogenous electric field...

Refined Kerr electrooptical fringe-pattern methods are used to study time and space variations in the electric field between the electrodes of parallel-plate capacitors filled with liquid nitrobenzene. Photographs of fringe-pattern data recorded during application of high direct (both positive and negative) and sinusoidal voltages, ranging in frequency from 40 to 200 Hz, are compiled to enable ...

As Gas Insulated DC transmission systems unite the advantages of space saving installation and large transmission capacity this technology is increasingly discussed and investigated today. The main problem in operation with respect to insulation seems to be identified today, which is charge accumulation on the surface of the spacer. These trapped charges can cause a reduction of dielectric stre...

In recent years, environmental and energy problem has become one of the world's hot spot problems. Today, the road cars not only consume a lot of oil resource, but also cause serious pollution to human survival environment. Therefore, to save energy and protect environment, a green environmental friendly electric car instead of fuel car will be needed for sustainable development of the society....

Electric fields are generated in vivo in a variety of physiologic and pathologic settings, including penetrating injury to epithelial barriers. An applied electric field with strength within the physiologic range can induce directional cell migration (i.e., electrotaxis) of epithelial cells, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and neutrophils suggesting a potential role in cell positioning during w...

Cell polarity can be influenced by an electric field, but the mechanisms behind this response are poorly understood. A new paper shows that fission yeast cells change their direction of growth in an external electric field and suggests mechanisms based on the cortical pH gradient and on electrophoresis of membrane proteins.