Numerical model for electrogenic transport by the ATP-dependent potassium pump KdpFABC.

In vitro assays of ion transport are an essential tool for understanding molecular mechanisms associated with ATP-dependent pumps. Because ion transport is generally electrogenic, principles of electrophysiology are applicable, but conventional tools like patch-clamp are ineffective due to relatively low turnover rates of the pumps. Instead, assays have been developed to measure either voltage or current generated by transport activity of a population of molecules either in cell-derived membrane fragments or after reconstituting purified protein into proteoliposomes.

Energy coupling and stoichiometry of Zn/H antiport by the prokaryotic cation diffusion facilitator YiiP.

YiiP from Shewanella oneidensis is a prokaryotic Zn/H antiporter that serves as a model for the Cation Diffusion Facilitator (CDF) superfamily, members of which are generally responsible for homeostasis of transition metal ions. Previous studies of YiiP as well as related CDF transporters have established a homodimeric architecture and the presence of three distinct Zn binding sites named A, B, and C. In this study, we use cryo-EM, microscale thermophoresis and molecular dynamics simulations to address the structural and functional roles of individual sites as well as the interplay between Zn binding and protonation.

Burnout among ICU Healthcare Workers at Two Tertiary Care Hospitals in Makkah during the Hajj Season.

Background: The Hajj season results in increased workload and longer shift hours for healthcare workers at the intensive care units (ICUs), which may result in burnout.

Objective: To determine the point prevalence of professional burnout and its predictors among healthcare workers at the ICUs of two tertiary care hospitals in Makkah during the Hajj season.

Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study included all healthcare professionals working at the ICU departments of two of the largest tertiary care hospitals in the Makkah region during the 1439/2018 Hajj season.

Energy Coupling and Stoichiometry of Zn/H Antiport by the Cation Diffusion Facilitator YiiP.

YiiP is a prokaryotic Zn/H antiporter that serves as a model for the Cation Diffusion Facilitator (CDF) superfamily, members of which are generally responsible for homeostasis of transition metal ions. Previous studies of YiiP as well as related CDF transporters have established a homodimeric architecture and the presence of three distinct Zn binding sites named A, B, and C. In this study, we use cryo-EM, microscale thermophoresis and molecular dynamics simulations to address the structural and functional roles of individual sites as well as the interplay between Zn binding and protonation.

The emerging crosstalk between atherosclerosis-related microRNAs and Bermuda triangle of foam cells: Cholesterol influx, trafficking, and efflux.

In atherosclerosis, the gradual buildup of lipid particles into the sub-endothelium of damaged arteries leads to numerous lipid alterations. The absorption of these modified lipids by monocyte-derived macrophages in the arterial wall leads to cholesterol accumulation and increases the likelihood of foam cell formation and fatty streak, which is an early characteristic of atherosclerosis. Foam cell formation is related to an imbalance in cholesterol influx, trafficking, and efflux.

Assessment of the Heavy Metals in Al Asfar Lake, Al-Hassa, Saudi Arabia.

Al Asfar Lake is a shallow wetland and habitat for wildlife and birds in a desert environment. The water of this lake is originated from the drainage water collected by earthen drainage network and discharged into the lake. The purpose of this study was to assess physico- chemical characteristics and some of heavy metals in Al Asfar lake water.

Effect of sodium selenite and vitamin E on the renal cortex in rats: an ultrastructure study.

This study examined the use of vitamin E to alleviate toxic effects of sodium selenite. Adult male albino rats (n=50) was divided into five groups. Group 1 was control, Groups 2 and 4 were treated with sodium selenite (2 mg/kg) for 2 and 4 weeks, respectively, Groups 3 and 5 were treated with sodium selenite (2 mg/kg) and vitamin E (100 mg/kg) for 2 and 4 weeks, respectively.

Origin of profunda femoris artery and its circumflex femoral branches: anatomical variations and clinical significance.

Background: Knowledge of the anatomical variations of the profunda femoris artery and its circumflex branches is important during angiographic diagnostic procedures as well as during performing surgery in the femoral region. The aim of this study was to examine the original sites, distances and variations of the profunda femoris artery and its circumflex branches.

Materials And Methods: The study was conducted in the Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University from October, 2011 to May, 2013 after the approval of the medical ethical committee.

Morphology and clinical implication of the extra-head of biceps brachii muscle.

The biceps brachii muscle is present in the anterior aspect of the arm. Its morphological variations have great clinical significance for surgeons, orthopaedic surgeons, anaesthetists, neurologists and anatomists. This study aimed to describe the incidence and morphology of the extra-heads of the biceps brachii muscle.

The effects of diethylstilbestrol administration on rat kidney. Ultrastructural study.

Objective: To assess the histological and ultrastructural changes that can be induced by diethylstilbestrol (DES) on renal tissues using histological, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural methods.

Methods: Thirty adult male Wistar rats were divided into 3 groups (10 rats each): Group 1 - control; Group 2 - received DES at a dose of 60 ug/kg/day, dissolved in 0.1 ml corn oil for 20 days; and Group 3 - received the same dose of DES for 50 days by oral gavage.

Effects of a low level laser on the acceleration of wound healing in rabbits.

Background: Tissue healing is a complex process that involves local and systemic responses. The use of low level laser therapy for wound healing has been shown to be effective in modulating both local and systemic response.

Aim: The aim of this study was to accelerate and facilitate wound healing and reduce scar formation and wound contraction of an open wound by a low level laser.

Impact of progressive sinotubular junction dilatation on valve competence of the 3F Aortic and Sorin Solo stentless bioprosthetic heart valves.

Objective: The use of stentless bioprostheses for aortic valve replacement provides excellent haemodynamics; however, these valves bear the potential risk of progressive regurgitation over time. To overcome this disadvantage, a new generation of pericardial stentless prostheses has been developed. This study aims to assess the tolerance of such bioprotheses against progressive sinotubular junction dilatation.