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Purpose: Sperm cryopreservation before cancer treatment is the most effective method to preserve the fertility of male pa-tients. We present our 21 years experience with sperm cryopreservation for cancer patients, including an examination of se-men quality, the current status of cryopreserved sperm, and the rate of sperm use for assisted reproductive technology (ART). Materials and Methods: A total of 721 cancer patients at Fertility Center of CHA Gangnam Medical Center successfully per-formed sperm cryopreservation for fertility preservation from January 1996 to December 2016. Medical chart review was used to analyze patient age, marital status, cancer type, semen volume, sperm counts and motility, length of storage, and cur-rent banking status. Results: The major cancers of the 721 patients were leukemia (28.4%), lymphoma (18.3%), testis cancer (10.0%). The mean age at cryopreservation was 27.0 years, and 111 patients (15.4%) performed sperm cryopreservation during or after cancer treatment. The mean sperm concentration was 66.7±66.3 ×106/mL and the mean sperm motility was 33.8%±16.3%. During median follow-up duration of 75 months (range, 1–226 months), 44 patients (6.1%) used their banked sperm at our fertility center for ART and 9 patients (1.2%) transferred their banked sperm to another center. The median duration from cryopreser-vation to use was 51 months (range, 1–158 months). Conclusions: Sperm cryopreservation before gonadotoxic treatment is the most reliable method to preserve the fertility of male cancer patients. Sperm cryopreservation should be offered as a standard of care for all men planning cancer therapy.

Organic-inorganic hybrid perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are attracting tremendous attention for new-generation photovoltaic devices because of their excellent power conversion efficiency and simple fabrication process. One of the various approaches to increase the efficiency of PSCs is to change the material or structure of the carrier transport layer. Here, optically long and electrically short structural concept is proposed to enhance the characteristics of a PSC by employing selectively grown single crystalline TiO2 nanorods. The approach has the merit of increasing the electron-hole separation effectively and enables a thicker active layer to be coated without electrical loss by using TiO2 nanorods as an electron pathway. Moreover, selectively grown TiO2 nanorods increase the optical path of the incident light via scattering effects and enable a smooth coating of the active layer. Nanoimprint lithography and hydrothermal growth were employed to fabricate selectively grown TiO2 nanorod substrates. The fabricated solar cell exhibits an efficiency of 19.86% with a current density, open-circuit voltage, and fill factor of 23.13 mA/cm2, 1.120 V, and 76.69%, respectively. Time-resolved photoluminescence, ultraviolet-visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy, and the incident photon to current efficiency (IPCE) analysis were conducted to understand the factors responsible for the improvement in characteristics of the fabricated PSCs.

Nan et al. reported an interesting point of view on the phase stabilization mechanism of formamidinium lead halide (FAPbX3) perovskites in the September 2021 issue of Chem. A critical intermediate phase bearing the structure characteristics from the 2H phase to the 3C phase is successfully explained using a molecular-level description of the phase transition process and mechanism. In this study, we investigate how the intermediate stabilization with cationic or anionic additives affects the representative efficiency enhancement of perovskite solar cells.

Metal halide perovskites of the general formula ABX

Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors are effective treatments for erectile dysfunction, and several recent studies have reported positive effects of PDE5 inhibitors on semen parameters as well. However, the data are still controversial. We investigated the effect of PDE5 inhibitors on sperm function by analyzing sperm motility and acrosome reaction.This study included young healthy men who underwent fertility evaluation; 32 cases were finally included. Men were excluded if they used a PDE5 inhibitor within 2 weeks or if they had insufficient semen volume (≤2 mL), leukocytospermia, or a genitourinary infection. Changes in sperm motility and acrosome reaction were determined afterMean age of the participants was 35.4±4.9 years, mean sperm concentration was 68.7±32.4 ×10⁶/mL, and mean sperm motility was 50.38%±8.41%. All three groups (control, sildenafil, tadalafil) experienced trends of decreased average sperm motility over time, but these changes were not significant. There were no significant differences between the three groups in the acrosome reaction after 120 minutes of drug exposure, either. The maximal semen concentration of oral intake of sildenafil (100 mg) or tadalafil (20 mg) did not substantially affect sperm motility or acrosome reaction.Our results suggest that on-demand use of a PDE5 inhibitor is safe and useful for the male partner of an infertile couple; however, further studies are warranted for daily PDE5 inhibitor use.

Background and objective A small supernumerary marker chromosome (sSMC) is a rare structurally abnormal chromosome in which no part can be identified by conventional cytogenetic banding technique. There is little known about the association of marker chromosomes with male infertility. We performed a molecular cyto-genetic characterization sSMCs and investigated their association with male infertility. Methods Among 4230 infertile male patients who underwent cytogenetic analyses from January 2008 to December 2018, the records of 15 patients who were diagnosed with sSMCs were reviewed. After ini-tial infertility evaluation, the patients received additional genetic tests including G-bands by trypsin using Giemsa (GTG-banding), Nucleolar organizer region (NOR) banding, Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) analyses to further char-acterize and identify the origin of their marker chromosome. Testis biopsy was performed for the azoospermic patients to evaluate spermatogenic status. Results Among 15 infertile males with sSMCs, eight had nonobstructive azoospermia, five had severe oligozo-ospermia, and two had sperm concentrations above the lower normal limit. The marker chromosomes were identified as Y ring chromosomes (n = 8), an isodicentric Y chromosome (n = 1), a neocen-tromere Y chromosome (n = 1), a derivative chromosome 1 (n = 1), and an acrocentric short arms (n = 4). Conclusion Marker chromosomes appear to be a rare genetic cause of male infertility. Additional cytogenetic tests, including NOR banding, FISH, and aCGH, could help to characterize the origin of the marker chromosome. Appropriate genetic counseling for couples with infertility caused by a marker chromo-some should be recommended.

We aimed to evaluate the reliability and validity of the adapted Korean version of the Italian Spine Youth Quality of Life (ISYQOL) questionnaire. Translation/retranslation of the English version of ISYQOL was conducted, and all steps of the cross-cultural adaptation process were performed. The Korean version of the ISYQOL and the previously validated Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22) questionnaire were mailed to 120 consecutive idiopathic scoliosis patients wearing brace. Factor analysis and reliability assessment by kappa statistics of agreement for each item, the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Cronbach’s α were conducted. Construct validity was also evaluated by comparing the responses of ISYQOL with the responses of SRS-22 by using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Factor analysis extracted 2 factors. All items had a kappa statistics of agreement greater than 0.6. The ISYQOL showed good test/re-test reliability (ICC = 0.812). Internal consistency of Cronbach’s α was found to be very good (α = 0.873). The Korean version of ISYQOL showed good significant correlation with SRS-22 total score and with single SRS-22 domains scores. The adapted Korean version of the ISYQOL was successfully translated and showed acceptable measurement properties, and as such, is considered suitable for outcome assessments in the Korean speaking patients with idiopathic scoliosis.

This study aimed to compare outcomes between ankylosing spondylitis (AS) treated with and without bisphosphonate (BP; non-BP) through a meta-analysis. The Medline (via PubMed), Cochrane, Scopus, and Embase databases were searched for studies that evaluated the outcomes of AS, including patient age, disease duration, disease activity, and bone mineral density (BMD), published between January 2000 and March 2020. Two authors extracted the data independently. Any discrepancies were resolved by a consensus. Six comparative studies were identified. No significant differences were found between the BP and non-BP groups in terms of demographic characteristics, disease activity, and BMD, except for follow-up erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). The follow-up ESR was higher in the BP than in the non-BP group. A literature review identified six comparative studies reporting the outcomes of BP and non-BP treatments for AS. Despite the heterogeneity, a limited number of meta-analyses reported that BP treatment was not clearly better than non-BP treatment. Hence, further large-scale multicenter studies are required to validate our results.

Background Elderly colorectal cancer (CRC) patients tend to avoid standard treatment, especially curative surgical resection, because of concerns about surgical complications or underlying diseases. This study is intended to compare clinical characteristics and prognosis between patients who had undergone surgical resection and received supportive care, and to evaluate the usefulness of surgical treatment in elderly patients. Methods A total of 114 patients aged ≥80 years who were diagnosed with CRC were analyzed retrospectively. Of these patients, 73 patients underwent surgical resection for malignancy and 41 patients received supportive care. Clinicopathological factors and overall survival (OS) rates were compared. Results The s urgical resection group had better Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status, and a lower stage than did the supportive-care group. The 3-year OS rate of the surgical group was significantly higher than that of the supportive-care group (60.7% vs. 9.1%, p < 0.001). In extremely elderly patients (age ≥85 years), the surgical group showed a better 3-year OS rate than did the supportive-care group (73.9% vs. 6.3%, p < 0.001), although ECOG performance status and ASA physical status were not different. The post-operative mortality rate was 4.1%. In the analysis of risk factors related to survival, surgical resection was a good prognostic factor. Conclusions Surgical treatment in elderly CRC patients showed a survival benefit, even in the extremely elderly patients. Surgical resection for CRC in elderly patients can be considered to improve survival.

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a gaseous molecule found naturally in the environment, and as an industrial byproduct, and is known to cause acute death and induces long-term neurological disorders following acute high dose exposures. Currently, there is no drug approved for treatment of acute H2S-induced neurotoxicity and/or neurological sequelae. Lack of a deep understanding of pathogenesis of H2S-induced neurotoxicity has delayed the development of appropriate therapeutic drugs that target H2S-induced neuropathology. RNA sequencing analysis was performed to elucidate the cellular and molecular mechanisms of H2S-induced neurodegeneration, and to identify key molecular elements and pathways that contribute to H2S-induced neurotoxicity. C57BL/6J mice were exposed by whole body inhalation to 700 ppm of H2S for either one day, two consecutive days or 4 consecutive days. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan analyses showed H2S exposure induced lesions in the inferior colliculus (IC) and thalamus (TH). This mechanistic study focused on the IC. RNA Sequencing analysis revealed that mice exposed once, twice, or 4 times had 283, 193 and 296 differentially expressed genes (DEG), respectively (q-value < 0.05, fold-change > 1.5). Hydrogen sulfide exposure modulated multiple biological pathways including unfolded protein response, neurotransmitters, oxidative stress, hypoxia, calcium signaling, and inflammatory response in the IC. Hydrogen sulfide exposure activated PI3K/Akt and MAPK signaling pathways. Pro-inflammatory cytokines were shown to be potential initiators of the modulated signaling pathways following H2S exposure. Furthermore, microglia were shown to release IL-18 and astrocytes released both IL-1β and IL-18 in response to H2S. This transcriptomic analysis data revealed complex signaling pathways involved in H2S-induced neurotoxicity and may provide important associated mechanistic insights.HighlightsTranscriptomic profiling analyses following acute exposure to H2S were performedMultiple signaling pathways were dysregulated following H2S exposurePI3K/Akt and MAPK signaling pathways were activated after H2S exposureMRI scan analysis revealed lesions in the IC and TH following H2S exposureAcute H2S exposure induced a neuroinflammatory response

Objective With the recognition of epilepsy as a network disease that disrupts the organizing ability of resting-state brain networks, vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) may control epileptic seizures through modulation of functional connectivity. We evaluated preoperative 2-deoxy-2[18 F]fluoro-D-glucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) in VNS-implanted pediatric patients with refractory epilepsy to analyze the metabolic connectivity of patients and its prognostic role in seizure control. Methods Preoperative PET data of 66 VNS pediatric patients who were followed up for a minimum of 1 year after the procedure were collected for the study. Retrospective review of the patients' charts was performed, and five patients with inappropriate PET data or major health issues were excluded. We conducted an independent component analysis of FDG-PET to extract spatial metabolic components and their activities, which were used to perform cross-sectional metabolic network analysis. We divided the patients into VNS-effective and VNS-ineffective groups (VNS-effective group, ≥50% seizure reduction; VNS-ineffective group, Results Thirty-four (55.7%) patients showed >50% seizure reduction from baseline frequency 1 year after VNS. A significant difference in metabolic connectivity evaluated by preoperative FDG-PET was noted between groups. Relative changes in glucose metabolism were strongly connected among the areas of brainstem, cingulate gyrus, cerebellum, bilateral insula, and putamen in patients with Significance This study shows that seizure outcome of VNS may be influenced by metabolic connectivity, which can be obtained from preoperative PET imaging. This study of metabolic connectivity analysis may contribute in further understanding of the mechanism of VNS in intractable seizures.

In the past decade, the fastest development in solar cell research has occurred for perovskite solar cells. Owing to the favorable properties of perovskite materials, perovskite solar cells exhibit excellent power conversion efficiencies and there appears great potential for future development. In this paper, we report the fabrication of a substrate with excellent optical properties by incorporating hexagonal array micro-convex (HAMC) nanostructures in it before integration with the electrode (indium tin oxide and zinc oxide) and the halide for use in organic-inorganic perovskite solar cells. This was fabricated using nanoimprint lithography which showed excellent throughput and involved simple processing methods. The HAMC nanostructured substrate showed strong light scattering as compared to that of the conventional substrate. This resulted in the increase of current density of the fabricated solar cell from 19.45 mA/cm2 (un-patterned substrate) to 20.92 mA/cm2 (nanostructured substrate) with accompanying increase in the external quantum efficiency and a satisfactory performance by the perovskite solar cell.

Copper is one of the candidate materials for alternative transparent conductive electrodes (TCEs) owing to its excellent electrical conductivity and low cost. The vulnerability of copper against oxidation, however, imposes a severe limitation on its widespread application in functional devices. In this study, we demonstrate a high-performance and robust Cu and graphene hybrid TCE, where Cu optimized in a grid structure was used as the base electrode, while graphene sheet provided additional charge collection and transport pathways as well as a protective layer against oxidation of the underlying Cu. The Cu grid/graphene hybrid TCE was demonstrated in organic solar cells (OSCs) to have a power conversion efficiency of 8.5%, which is among the best performances based on metal grid TCE-based OSCs. The resulting device exhibited excellent long-term and thermal stabilities as well. The proposed Cu grid/graphene hybrid structure is expected to find practical application in various optoelectronics devices.

Processing for obtaining compact and uniform perovskite photoactive layers has been intensively studied over the last few years to achieve high power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) in solar cells. Particularly, high quality crystal growth of perovskite layers is critical to enhance device performance. We demonstrate an easy and effective new process for high efficiency p–i–n planar heterojunction structures of perovskite solar cells (PeSCs) by using a compact seed perovskite layer (CSPL). The CSPL assists vertical growth of perovskite crystals and obtains the highly crystalline perovskite photoactive layer, which leads to the reduction in the charge transfer resistance and a longer photoluminescence lifetime. The PeSC device with a CSPL shows a remarkably improved PCE, from 15.07% to 19.25%, with a record open circuit voltage (VOC) of 1.16 V in the p–i–n structure with pure crystal perovskite and negligible current density–voltage hysteresis. Additionally, a PCE of 20.37% was achieved in CSPL assisted n–i–p structure PeSCs.

Hydrogen sulfide (H2 S) is a highly neurotoxic gas. Acute exposure can lead to neurological sequelae among survivors. A drug for treating neurological sequelae in survivors of acute H2 S intoxication is needed. Using a novel mouse model we evaluated the efficacy of cobinamide (Cob) for increasing survival of, and reducing neurological sequalae in, mice exposed to sublethal doses of H2 S. There were two objectives: (1) to determine the dose-response efficacy of Cob and (2) to determine the effective therapeutic time window of Cob. To explore objective 1, mice were injected intramuscularly with Cob at 0, 50, or 100 mg/kg at 2 min after H2 S exposure. For objective 2, mice were injected intramuscularly with 100 mg/kg Cob at 2, 15, and 30 min after H2 S exposure. For both objectives, mice were exposed to 765 ppm of H2 S gas. Cob significantly reduced H2 S-induced lethality in a dose-dependent manner (P

Hydrogen sulfide (H2 S) is a highly neurotoxic gas. It is the second most common cause of gas-induced deaths. Beyond mortality, surviving victims of acute exposure may suffer long-term neurological sequelae. There is a need to develop countermeasures against H2 S poisoning. However, no translational animal model of H2 S-induced neurological sequelae exists. Here, we describe a novel mouse model of H2 S-induced neurotoxicity for translational research. In paradigm I, C57/BL6 mice were exposed to 765 ppm H2 S for 40 min on day 1, followed by 15-min daily exposures for periods ranging from 1 to 6 days. In paradigm II, mice were exposed once to 1000 ppm H2 S for 60 minutes. Mice were assessed for behavioral, neurochemical, biochemical, and histopathological changes. H2 S intoxication caused seizures, dyspnea, respiratory depression, knockdowns, and death. H2 S-exposed mice showed significant impairment in locomotor and coordinated motor movement activity compared with controls. Histopathology revealed neurodegenerative lesions in the collicular, thalamic, and cortical brain regions. H2 S significantly increased dopamine and serotonin concentration in several brain regions and caused time-dependent decreases in GABA and glutamate concentrations. Furthermore, H2 S significantly suppressed cytochrome c oxidase activity and caused significant loss in body weight. Overall, male mice were more sensitive than females. This novel translational mouse model of H2 S-induced neurotoxicity is reliable, reproducible, and recapitulates acute H2 S poisoning in humans.

Chronic exposure to elevated levels of manganese (Mn) has been linked to a Parkinsonian-like movement disorder, resulting from dysfunction of the extrapyramidal motor system within the basal ganglia. However, the exact cellular and molecular mechanisms of Mn-induced neurotoxicity remain elusive. In this study, we treated C57/BL6J mice with 30 mg/kg Mn via oral gavage for 30 days. Interestingly, in nigral tissues of Mn-exposed mice, we found a significant downregulation of the truncated isoform of p73 protein at the N-terminus (ΔNp73). To further determine the functional role of Mn-induced p73 downregulation in Mn neurotoxicity, we examined the interrelationship between the effect of Mn on p73 gene expression and apoptotic cell death in an N27 dopaminergic neuronal model. Consistent with our animal study, a 300 μM Mn treatment significantly suppressed p73 mRNA expression in N27 dopaminergic cells. We further determined that protein levels of the ΔNp73 isoform was also reduced in Mn-treated N27 cells and primary striatal cultures. Furthermore, overexpression of ΔNp73 conferred modest cellular protection against Mn-induced neurotoxicity. Taken together, our results demonstrate that Mn exposure downregulates p73 gene expression resulting in enhanced susceptibility to apoptotic cell death. Thus, further characterization of the cellular mechanism underlying p73 gene downregulation will improve our understanding of the molecular underpinnings of Mn neurotoxicity.

Objective To compare outcomes of instrumented interbody fusion by the anterior approach (anterior lumbar interbody fusion [ALIF] with posterior pedicle screw fixation [PPF] or lateral lumbar interbody fusion [XLIF] with PPF) or the posterior approach (transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion [TLIF] or posterior lumbar interbody fusion [PLIF]) for spondylolisthesis through meta-analysis. Methods The MEDLINE via PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, and Embase databases were searched for studies published between January 2010 and January 2019 evaluating outcomes including lumbar lordosis (LL), segmental lordosis (SL), slip rate, disc height (DH), back visual analogue scale (VAS), leg VAS, and Oswestry disability index (ODI) of ALIF with PPF or XLIF with PPF and TLIF or PLIF for spondylolisthesis. Two authors performed the data extraction independently. Any discrepancies were resolved by a consensus. Results Eight comparative studies were identified. There was no significant difference between the anterior approach and the posterior approach for preoperative LL, SL, and DH. In addition, postoperative back and leg VAS, and ODI between the 2 groups were not different. However, the anterior approach was more effective for restoration of postoperative LL, SL, and DH than the posterior approach. Conclusions A literature review identified 8 comparative studies reporting outcomes of the anterior approach and the posterior approach in instrumented interbody fusion for spondylolisthesis. Despite heterogeneity, a limited meta-analysis showed that the postoperative restoration of LL, SL, and DH was better in the anterior approach group. Further large multicenter studies would be necessary to substantiate our results.

Hybrid organic–inorganic perovskite materials have attracted substantial attention as photovoltaic light abosorbers due to their outstanding physical properties and outstanding power conversion efficiencies (PCEs). Structural variation of perovskite absorbing materials has proven to be an effective route to improve device performance; notably, tuning of the halide anion composition constitutes a key approach to control material properties. In this work, we demonstrate a bridged ternary halide approach to process materials with the formula MAPbI3–y–xBryClx, which yields high PCEs in planar, p–i–n type heterojunction perovskite solar cells. This ternary halide perovskite system improves device performance from 12 to 16% when an optimal concentration of 10% Br is incorporated into the binary Cl–I systems via increases in short-circuit current density, open-circuit voltage, and the fill factor, which arise from the formation of homogeneous crystal domains and a subtle widening of the optical band gap. Remarka...

Seeking preparation of high-performance donor–acceptor (D–A) polymers based on bare thiophene units in a more environmentally friendly and faster way, we have carried out a direct arylation polymerization (DAP) of two starting β-unprotected thiophene-containing monomers (indacenodithiophene (IDT) and thiophene–quinoxaline–thiophene (TQ)). Through modulating DAP time and heating method, the resulting IDT–TQ polymer shows a relatively well-defined structure with low content of structural defects, as demonstrated by high temperature 1H NMR, MALDI-TOF-MS, and elemental analysis. Integrating this polymer into bulk-heterojunction solar cells with PC71BM can induce an enhanced OPV performance compared to the other structural analogues that retain a certain amount of unwanted structural defects. However, the film morphology and crystallinity are negligibly influenced by the degree of the structural defects. Through a combination of detailed electrical measurements using light intensity dependence and net photocur...

Open-circuit voltage (VOC) is an important parameter in determining the performance of polymer solar cells (PSCs). Given the desire for superior VOC values in PSCs, we have designed and synthesized a series of ‘medium bandgap’ donor–acceptor (D–A) copolymers containing carbazole (Cz) and quinoxaline (Qx) (PCzDT-Qx, PCzDT-fQx, and PCzDT-ffQx). As a result of their deep-lying HOMO levels (−5.45 to −5.61 eV), high VOC values are achieved in PSCs with the resulting copolymers, despite the expense of short-circuit current density (JSC) and fill factor (FF) parameters. In this study, in addition to the best power-conversion efficiency (PCE) of up to 4.03% from PCzDT-fQx-based on PSCs, we have demonstrated a VOC value exceeding 1.0 V with PSCs of PCzDT-ffQx, which is among the highest VOC values achieved to date. Moreover, a comprehensive investigation on the mechanism of charge recombination and transport characteristics can determine a clear structure–property correlation in this class of molecules, which is helpful for designing better materials with maximum VOC without scarifying other key photovoltaic parameters.

Hybrid solar cells, based on combinations of organic and inorganic semiconductors, constitute a promising avenue to harness solar energy by taking advantage of the strengths of both organic and inorganic materials. In this work, we report the first high-efficiency hybrid solar cell of its type comprising p-type silicon with an organic n-type C60 layer. High efficiencies based on the Si/C60 heterojunction were realized by utilizing an ultra-thin, doped and highly conductive C60 layer. Fabrication parameters were thoroughly investigated and critical factors for the efficient operation of this type of device were found to include the C60 thickness, doping of the C60 layer (using tetrabutyl ammonium iodide, TBAI), age-induced surface passivation and the incorporation of anti-reflection coatings (ARCs). From current density–voltage (J–V) and capacitance–voltage (C–V) characteristics, we have characterized the influence of C60 doping and device aging on the depletion region width and electrical parameters. An optimal power conversion efficiency of 8.43% was realized after 4 days of aging and TBAI treatment, with the application of a quarter-wave Sb2O3 ARC.

Objectives: The purpose of the study is to investigate the influencing factors of community scaling rate using community health survey data. Methods: The data were extracted from 2013 Community Health Survey, Ministry of education, Korea Dental Association, Statistics Korea, Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, and Ministry of the Interior. The resource factors of independent variables were analysed by Geographical Information System(GIS) using Map Wizard for Excel 17.0. The data were analyzed by descriptive analysis, pearson correlation and multiple linear regression analysis(p

Acute exposure to high concentrations of H2S causes severe brain injury and long-term neurological disorders. The mechanisms of H2S-induced neurodegeneration are not known. To better understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms of H2S-induced neurodegeneration we used a broad-spectrum proteomic analysis approach to search for key molecules in H2S-induced neurotoxicity. Mice were subjected to acute whole body exposure of up to750 ppm of H2S. The H2S-treated group showed behavioral motor deficits and developed severe lesions in the inferior colliculus (IC), part of the brainstem. The IC was microdissected for proteomic analysis. Tandem mass tags (TMT) liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)-based quantitative proteomics was applied for protein identification and quantitation. LC-MS/MS was able to identify 598, 562, and 546 altered proteomic changes for day 1 (2 h post H2S exposure), day 2, and day 4 of H2S exposure, respectively. Mass spectrometry data were analyzed by Perseus 1.5.5.3 statistical analysis, and gene ontology heat map clustering. Quantitative real-time PCR was used to confirm some of the H2S-dependent proteomics changes. Taken together, acute exposure to H2S induced behavioral motor deficits along with progressive neurodegeneration including disruption of several biological processes in the IC such as cellular morphology, energy metabolism, and calcium signaling. The obtained broad-spectrum proteomics data may provide important clues to elucidate mechanisms of H2S-induced neurotoxicity.HighlightsMice exposed to H2S recapitulated H2S-induced neurotoxicity manifested in humans.The IC in the mouse brain is the most sensitive to H2S-induced neurodegeneration.Proteomic expressions of key proteins were validated at transcription level.Several biological pathways were dysregulated by H2S exposure.

This study comprises a systematic review and meta-analysis of microsurgical vasoepididymostomy outcomes in epididymal obstructive azoospermia. A comprehensive literature search was performed using Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane library that included all studies related to microsurgical vasoepididymostomy. Keywords included “vasoepididymostomy,” “epididymovasostomy,” “epididymal obstruction,” and “epididymis obstruction.” Event rate and risk ratio (RR) were estimated. Patency rate and pregnancy rate were investigated. The analysis comprised 1422 articles, including 42 observational studies with 2298 enrolled patients performed from November 1978 to January 2017. The overall mean patency rate was 64.1% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 58.5%–69.3%; I2=83.0%), and the overall mean pregnancy rate was 31.1% (95% CI: 26.9%–35.7%; I2=73.0%). We performed a meta-analysis comparing the patency rate of bilateral microsurgical vasoepididymostomy and unilateral microsurgical vasoepididymostomy and found an RR of 1.38% (95% CI: 1.21%–1.57%; P < 0.00001). A comparison of the site of microsurgical vasoepididymostomy showed that caudal or corpus area was favorable for patency rate (RR = 1.17%; 95% CI: 1.01%–1.35%; P = 0.04). Patients with motile sperm in epididymal fluid exhibited an RR of 1.53% (95% CI: 1.11%–2.13%; P = 0.01) with respect to patency rate. Microsurgical vasoepididymostomy is an effective treatment for epididymal obstructive azoospermia that can improve male fertility. We find that performing microsurgical vasoepididymostomy bilaterally, anastomosing a larger caudal area, and containing motile sperm in epididymis fluid can potentially achieve a superior patency rate.

A stand-alone, wireless solar water splitting device without external energy supply has been realized by combining in tandem a CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite single junction solar cell with a cobalt carbonate (Co-Ci)-catalyzed, extrinsic/intrinsic dual-doped BiVO4 (hydrogen-treated and 3 at% Mo-doped). The photoanode recorded one of the highest photoelectrochemical water oxidation activity (4.8 mA/cm(2) at 1.23 VRHE) under simulated 1 sun illumination. The oxygen evolution Co-Ci co-catalyst showed similar performance to best known cobalt phosphate (Co-Pi) (5.0 mA/cm(2) at 1.23 VRHE) on the same dual-doped BiVO4 photoanode, but with significantly better stability. A tandem artificial-leaf-type device produced stoichiometric hydrogen and oxygen with an average solar-to-hydrogen efficiency of 4.3% (wired), 3.0% (wireless) under simulated 1 sun illumination. Hence, our device based on a D4 tandem photoelectrochemical cell represents a meaningful advancement in performance and cost over the device based on a triple-junction solar cell-electrocatalyst combination.

Organo-metal halide perovskite solar cells have received much attention in the field of photovoltaics in recent years. Herein, we report a flexible perovskite solar cell based on a metal substrate. It showed a power conversion efficiency of over 6% for the first time using a silver thin film as a semi-transparent top electrode on a Ti substrate.

Although polymer solar cells (PSCs) have received a tremendous amount of attention in recent years, a number of criteria must be met in order for them to be suitable as practical and commercially feasible power sources, including high performance, good air stability and inexpensive manufacturing. In this contribution, we determine the optimal top electrode for practical PSC fabrication by investigating the influence of the electrode material on the optical properties and performance of PSC devices. The optical properties of eight metals were considered, out of which three metal electrodes (aluminum (Al), silver (Ag), gold (Au)) with the best optical properties were used to prepare inverted PSC devices comprising a blended polymer thieno[3,4-b]thiophene/benzodithiophene (PTB7) and [6,6]-phenyl C71-butyric acid methyl ester (PC71BM). Among the photovoltaic parameters, the short circuit current density (JSC) was most strongly affected by the optical properties of the top electrode. In the results of the experiment, the J(SC) of the Al and Ag electrode devices was found to be approximately 13% (13.4 → 15.1 mA cm(-2)) higher than the Au electrode device due to the significant parasitic absorption of light by Au at wavelengths below 600 nm. In contrast, Al and Ag electrodes have high reflectance throughout the visible spectrum, which leads to high J(SC). Ag electrodes have relatively good stability to ambient exposure, maintaining over 96% of the original efficiency after 170 hours; this stability is comparable to Au. These data lead to the conclusion that Ag is the optimal top electrode material for use in inverted devices.

Efficient flexible perovskite solar cells based on a Ti substrate have been fabricated using indium tin oxide (ITO) as the top electrode. Furthermore, an ultra-thin Ag layer embedded between spiro-MeOTAD and ITO led to lower sheet resistance and a highly durable electrode compared with bare ITO. Inclusion of the Ag thin film has also provided enhanced electromagnetic fields on the surface of Ag for devices, which caused an increase of short circuit current.

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a colorless, highly neurotoxic gas. It is not only an occupational and environmental hazard but also of concern to the Department of Homeland Security for potential nefarious use. Acute high-dose H2S exposure causes death, while survivors may develop neurological sequelae. Currently, there is no suitable antidote for treatment of acute H2S-induced neurotoxicity. Midazolam (MDZ), an anti-convulsant drug recommended for treatment of nerve agent intoxications, could also be of value in treating acute H2S intoxication. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that MDZ is effective in preventing/treating acute H2S-induced neurotoxicity. This proof-of-concept study had two objectives: to determine whether MDZ prevents/reduces H2S-induced mortality and to test whether MDZ prevents H2S-induced neurological sequelae. MDZ (4mg/kg) was administered IM in mice, 5min pre-exposure to a high concentration of H2S at 1000ppm or 12min post-exposure to 1000ppm H2S followed by 30min of continuous exposure. A separate experiment tested whether MDZ pre-treatment prevented neurological sequelae. Endpoints monitored included assessment of clinical signs, mortality, behavioral changes, and brain histopathological changes. MDZ significantly reduced H2S-induced lethality, seizures, knockdown, and behavioral deficits (p&nbsp

Edged-selectively fluorine (F) functionalized graphene nanoplatelets (EFGnPs-F) with a p–i–n structure of perovskite solar cells achieved 82% stability relative to initial performance over 30 days of air exposure without encapsulation. The enhanced stability stems from F-substitution on EFGnPs; fluorocarbons such as polytetrafluoroethylene are well-known for their superhydrophobic properties and being impervious to chemical degradation. These hydrophobic moieties tightly protect perovskite layers from air degradation. To directly compare the effect of similar hydrophilic graphene layers, edge-selectively hydrogen functionalized graphene nanoplatelet (EFGnPs-H) treated devices were tested under the same conditions. Like the pristine MAPbI3 perovskite devices, EFGnPs-H treated devices were completely degraded after 10 days. The hydrophobic properties of EFGnPs-F were characterized by contact angle measurement. The test results showed great water repellency compared to pristine perovskite films or EFGnPs-H c...

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a highly neurotoxic gas. Acute exposure can lead to neurological sequelae among survivors. A drug for treating neurological sequelae in survivors of acute H2S intoxication is needed. Using a novel mouse model we evaluated the efficacy of cobinamide (Cob) for this purpose. There were two objectives: (1) to determine the dose–response efficacy of Cob and (2) to determine the effective therapeutic time window of Cob. To explore objective 1, mice were injected intramuscularly with Cob at 0, 50 or 100 mg/kg at 2 min after H2S exposure. For objective 2, mice were injected intramuscularly with 100 mg/kg Cob at 2, 15, and 30 min after H2S exposure. For both objectives, mice were exposed to 765 ppm of H2S gas. Cob significantly reduced H2S-induced lethality in a dose-dependent manner (P < 0.05). Cob-treated mice exhibited significantly fewer seizures and knockdowns compared with the H2S-exposed group. Cob also reversed H2S-induced weight loss, behavioral deficits, neurochemical changes, cytochrome c oxidase enzyme inhibition, and neurodegeneration in a dose- and time-dependent manner (P < 0.01). Overall, these findings show that Cob increases survival and is neuroprotective in a mouse model of H2S-induced neurological sequelae.

Organic-inorganic hybrid metal halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are attracting tremendous research interest due to their high solar-to-electric power conversion efficiency with a high possibility of cost-effective fabrication and certified power conversion efficiency now exceeding 22%. Although many effective methods for their application have been developed over the past decade, their practical transition to large-size devices has been restricted by difficulties in achieving high performance. Here we report on the development of a simple and cost-effective production method with high-temperature and short-time annealing processing to obtain uniform, smooth, and large-size grain domains of perovskite films over large areas. With high-temperature short-time annealing at 400 °C for 4 s, the perovskite film with an average domain size of 1 μm was obtained, which resulted in fast solvent evaporation. Solar cells fabricated using this processing technique had a maximum power conversion efficiency exceeding 20% over a 0.1 cm

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive motor deficits and degeneration of dopaminergic neurons. Caused by a number of genetic and environmental factors, mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress play a role in neurodegeneration in PD. By selectively knocking out mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) in dopaminergic neurons, the transgenic MitoPark mice recapitulate many signature features of the disease, including progressive motor deficits, neuronal loss, and protein inclusions. In the present study, we evaluated the neuroprotective efficacy of a novel mitochondrially targeted antioxidant, Mito-apocynin, in MitoPark mice and cell culture models of neuroinflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction.Oral administration of Mito-apocynin (10 mg/kg, thrice a week) showed excellent central nervous system bioavailability and significantly improved locomotor activity and coordination in MitoPark mice. Importantly, Mito-apocynin also partially attenuated severe nigrostriatal degeneration in MitoPark mice. Mechanistic studies revealed that Mito-apo improves mitochondrial function and inhibits NOX2 activation, oxidative damage, and neuroinflammation.The properties of Mito-apocynin identified in the MitoPark transgenic mouse model strongly support potential clinical applications for Mito-apocynin as a viable neuroprotective and anti-neuroinflammatory drug for treating PD when compared to conventional therapeutic approaches.Collectively, our data demonstrate, for the first time, that a novel orally active apocynin derivative improves behavioral, inflammatory, and neurodegenerative processes in a severe progressive dopaminergic neurodegenerative model of PD. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 27, 1048-1066.

Germanium exhibits high charge capacity and high lithium diffusivity, both are the key requirements for electrode materials in high performance lithium ion batteries (LIBs). However, high volume expansion and segregation from the electrode during charge-discharge cycling have limited use of germanium in LIBs. Here, we demonstrate that ZnO decorated Ge nanoparticles (Ge@ZnO NPs) can overcome these limitations of Ge as an LIB anode material. We produced Ge NPs at high rates by laser pyrolysis of GeH4, then coated them with solution phase synthesized ZnO NPs. Half-cell tests revealed dramatically enhanced cycling stability and higher rate capability of Ge@ZnO NPs compared to Ge NPs. Enhancements arise from the core-shell structure of Ge@ZnO NPs as well as production of metallic Zn from the ZnO layer. These findings not only demonstrate a new surface treatment for Ge NPs, but also provide a new opportunity for development of high-rate LIBs.

1710년 청나라에서 해적이 출현하자 황제는 해적을 소탕하고 여적(餘賊)이 있을 까 걱정하여 조선에 알린다. 조선에서는 이에 대한 화답으로 사은사(謝恩使)를 준비하여 사은겸삼절년공사(謝恩兼三節年貢使)로 정사 정재륜(鄭載崙)과 부사 박권(朴權), 서장관 홍우령(洪禹寧)을 북경에 보낸다. 이들보다 앞서 10월 5일, 당시 39세 였던 한범석을 도총부도사(都摠府都事)의 자격으로 북경에 보낸다. 한범석을 포함하여 1710년에 북경을 다녀온 조선 사람들이 개인적으로 남긴 기록은 현재 발견할 수 없다. 다만 한범석이 조정에 장계(狀啓)로 올린 「單使赴燕時」와 「到義州報狀」이 남아 있는데, 이 때문에 한범석이 북경을 다녀온 전후의 과정과 목적은 이들 장계와 「赴燕詩」, 『조선왕조실록』같은 자료를 함께 살펴보아야 한다. 당시 청나라는 강희가 황제로 있었을 때였다. 즉위 초부터 왕실의 반대파인 鰲배(拜)를 제거하고 삼번(三藩)의 난을 평정하였지만 중국 전역에는 여전히 작은 소란이 일어나고 있었다. 절강(浙江), 호광(湖光) 등에서는 묘적(苗賊)이 해변에 출몰하였고, 섬서(陝西)와 계주(界州) 지방에서는 라마교의 난리가 일어났으며, 감숙성(甘肅省) 서쪽에서는 갈이달(喝爾達)이 반란을 기도하고 있었다. 조선에 영향을 끼쳤던 해적은 김주(金州)에서 소탕되었다. 원래 이들은 남방에서 일어나 북상하면서 등주(登州)와 래주(萊州) 지역에 출몰하였고 이어 북쪽 요동반도의 여순(旅順) 부근에 있는 김주(金州)까지 세력을 뻐친다. 한범석은 이 전후의 과정을 자세히 조사하여 보고하고 있다. 특히 해적의 규모라든가 전술방법 같은 것도 소상하게 보고하고 있다. 이들 기록들은 주로 북경으로 가는 동안 봉황성(鳳凰城)에서 얻은 정보와 심양에서 들은 것, 해적의 피해를 입은 이중덕(李重德)에게 들은 이야기들을 정리하여 보고한 것도 있다. 북경에서는 정보입수가 어렵게 되자 청나라 하급관리에게 뇌물을 주고 자료를 얻기도 한다. 그런데 한범석과 일행들이 북경에 도착했지만 오히려 청나라 예부는 한범석과 일행을 의심했다. 선발대가 이렇게 사은사보다 먼저 온 것이 당황스럽다는 것이다. 이 때문에 한범석 일행은 예부관원들과 한 차례 갈등을 겪게 된다. 당시 황제는 도성에 있지 않고 계주(界州)와 영평(永平) 등지에서 사냥을 하며 지역을 시찰하고 있었다. 한범석이 얻은 정보는 당시 조선과 청나라의 상황을 알 수 있다는 점에서 의의가 크다. 특히 삼번(三藩)의 난 이후에도 청나라에 크고 작은 규모의 전란이 있었다는 것은 시사하는 점이 크다. 한범석의 선발대는 다른 목적을 가지지 않고 당시 정세 파악에 주력하였으므로 그의 장계는 정치와 종교의 변화에 자세하다. 주씨(朱氏) 후손을 세워 멸망한 명나라 왕조를 재건하려는 세력이 있다는 것도 알 수 있다. 조선 후기 최고 산문 중의 하나인 『열하일기』의 「허생전」을 보면 북벌에 대한 삼대책을 허생이 이완장군에게 언급하는 내용이 있다. 주씨(朱氏)왕손을 세운다거나 자제들을 빈공과에 보내고 강남에 상인을 보내어 북벌을 도모한다는 내용이다. 「허생전」은 허구적 요소가 가미되어 있지만 소재가 역사적 사실에 근거를 두고 있다는 것을 한범석의 장계를 통하여 거듭 확인 할 수 있다.

Single crystal silicon nanoparticles (Si-NPs) of 20 nm were produced via laser pyrolysis with a virtually complete conversion from SiH4 to Si-NPs. SF6 was used as the photosensitizer to transfer laser beam energy to silicon precursors, dramatically enhancing crystallinity of Si-NPs and their production efficiency. By using their well-developed crystalline structure, the directional volume expansion of Si-NPs was confirmed during lithiation. Lithiation/delithiation kinetics of our Si-NPs was superior to that of their amorphous counterparts due to the footprinted Li+ pathways formed during amorphization.

We demonstrate a practical route to synthesize Ge nanoparticles (NPs) in multi-gram quantities via the laser pyrolysis of GeH4 gas. The size of the as-produced Ge NPs can be precisely controlled in the range of 19.0 to 65.9 nm via a subsequent etching procedure using a dilute H2O2 solution. Stable water dispersions of Ge NPs yield particles with a Ge/GeO2 core-shell structure, however, the oxide shell can easily be removed and passivated by treatment with HCl. The feed materials used in this process are readily available and lead to non-toxic, water-based dispersions of Ge NPs. The scalability and convenience of this procedure make it attractive as a method to obtain Ge NP dispersions for use in applications such as optoelectronic devices and biosensors.

Parameatal urethral cyst is an ultra rare benign condition, and only a few cases have been reported in the literature. These cysts are usually asymptomatic, and may resolve spontaneously, although surgical excision is necessary for symptomatic patients. Here, we report a neonate with a parameatal urethral cyst without symptoms.