Backgroud Before fertilization,spermatozoa undergo a crucial maturation step called capacitation,which is a unique event regulates the sperm’s ability for successful fertilization.The capacitation process takes place...Backgroud Before fertilization,spermatozoa undergo a crucial maturation step called capacitation,which is a unique event regulates the sperm’s ability for successful fertilization.The capacitation process takes place as the spermatozoa pass through the female reproductive tract(FRT).Dihydrolipoamide dehydrogenase(DLD)protein is a post-pyruvate metabolic enzyme,exhibiting reactive oxygen species(ROS)production which causes capacitation.Additionally,other vital functions of DLD in buffalo spermatozoa are hyperactivation and acrosome reaction.DLD produces the optimum amount of ROS required to induce capacitation process in FRT.Depending on physiological or patho-physiological conditions,DLD can either enhance or attenuate the production of reactive oxygen species(ROS).Aim of this study was to investigate whether changes in the production of ROS in sperm cells can impact their ability to fertilize by triggering the capacitation and acrosome reaction.Results In this study,abundance of DLD protein was quantified between high(n=5)and low fertile bull(n=5)sper-matozoa.It was found that compared to high-fertile(HF)bulls,low-fertile(LF)bulls exhibited significantly(P<0.05)higher DLD abundances.Herein,we optimised the MICA concentration to inhibit DLD function,spermatozoa were treated with MICA in time(0,1,2,3,4,and 5 h)and concentrations(1,2.5,5,and 10 mmol/L)dependent manner.Maximum DLD inhibition was found to be at 4 h in 10 mmol/L MICA concentration,which was used for further exper-imentation in HF and LF.Based on DLD inhibition it was seen that LF bull spermatozoa exhibited significantly(P<0.05)higher ROS production and acrosome reaction in comparison to the HF bull spermatozoa.The kinematic parameters of the spermatozoa such as percent total motility,velocity parameters(VCL,VSL,and VAP)and other parameters(BCF,STR,and LIN)were also decreased in MICA treated spermatozoa in comparison to the control(capacitated)spermatozoa.Conclusions The present study provides an initial evidence explaining the buffalo bull spermatozoa with higher DLD abundance undergo early capacitation,which subsequently reduces their capacity to fertilize.展开更多
In order to improve the in vitro fertilization rate of bovine, the effects of different sperm capacitation methods on fertilization were investigated. Total two treatments were designed： two-time centrifugation （C）...In order to improve the in vitro fertilization rate of bovine, the effects of different sperm capacitation methods on fertilization were investigated. Total two treatments were designed： two-time centrifugation （C）, and one-time centrifugation and swim-up method （CS）. The results showed that the cleavage rate in the C treatment group was （75.6±4.5）%, which showed no difference compared with that （（76.4±1.9）%） in the CS treatment group （P〉0.05）; there was also no significant dif- ference in blastocyst rate between the two treatment groups （（35.7±4.1）% vs. （36.3± 2.7）%, P〉0.05）. However, the CS treatment significantly saved the capacitation time in vitro.展开更多
Prior to fertilization sperm has to undergo an activation process known as capaciation,leading to the acrosome reaction.Till now,little is known about the mechanism for preventing premature capacitation in sperm altho...Prior to fertilization sperm has to undergo an activation process known as capaciation,leading to the acrosome reaction.Till now,little is known about the mechanism for preventing premature capacitation in sperm although decapacitation factors from various sources have been thought to be involved.In this study,we report that NYD-SP27,an isoform of phospholipase C Zeta 1(PLCZ1),is localized to the sperm acrosome in mouse and human spermatozoa by immunofluorescence using a specific antibody.Western blot and double staining analyses show NYD-SP27 becomes detached from sperm,as they undergo capacitation and acrosome reaction.The absence of HCO_(3)^(-),a key factor in activating capacitation,from the capacitation-inducing medium prevents the loss of NYD-SP27 from sperm.The anti-NYD-SP27 antibody also prevents the loss of NYD-SP27 from sperm,reduced the number of capacitated sperm,inhibited the acrosome reaction induced by ATP and progesterone,and inhibited agonist-induced PLC-coupled Ca^(2+)mobilization in sperm,which can be mimicked by the PLC inhibitor,U73122.These data strongly suggest that NYD-SP27 is a physiological inhibitor of PLC that acts as an intrinsic decapacitation factor in sperm to prevent premature capacitation and acrosome reaction.展开更多
Mammalian sperm must undergo a series of biochemical and physiological modifications, collectively called capacitation, in the female reproductive tract prior to the acrosome reaction （AR）. The mechanisms of these m...Mammalian sperm must undergo a series of biochemical and physiological modifications, collectively called capacitation, in the female reproductive tract prior to the acrosome reaction （AR）. The mechanisms of these modifications are not well characterized though protein kinases were shown to be involved in the regulation of intracellular Ca2＋ during both capacitation and the AR. In the present review, we summarize some of the signaling events that are involved in capacitation. During the capacitation process, phosphatidyl-inositol-3-kinase （PI3K） is phosphorylated/activated via a protein kinase A （PKA）-dependent cascade, and downregulated by protein kinase C a （PKCa）. PKCa is active at the beginning of capacitation, resulting in PI3K inactivation. During capacitation, PKCa as well as PP172 is degraded by a PKA-dependent mechanism, allowing the activation of PI3K. The activation of PKA during capacitation depends mainly on cyclic adenosine monophosphate （cAMP） produced by the bicarbonate-dependent soluble adenylyl cyclase. This activation of PKA leads to an increase in actin polymerization, an essential process for the development of hyperactivated motility, which is necessary for successful fertilization. Actin polymerization is mediated by PIP2 in two ways： first, PIP2 acts as a cofactor for phospholipase D （PLD） activation, and second, as a molecule that binds and inhibits actin-severing proteins such as gelsolin. Tyrosine phosphorylation of gelsolin during capacitation by Src family kinase （SFK） is also important for its inactivation. Prior to the AR, gelsolin is released from PIP2 and undergoes dephosphorylation/activation, resulting in fast F-actin depolymerization, leading to the AR.展开更多
Membrane modifications in sperm cells represent a key step in sperm capacitation; however, the molecular basis of these modifications is not fully understood. Ezrin is the best-studied member of the ezrin/radixin/merl...Membrane modifications in sperm cells represent a key step in sperm capacitation; however, the molecular basis of these modifications is not fully understood. Ezrin is the best-studied member of the ezrin/radixin/merlin family. As a cross-linker between the cortical cytoskeleton and plasma membrane proteins, ezrin contributes to remodeling of the membrane surface structure. Furthermore, activated ezrin and the Rho dissociation inhibitor, RhoGDI, promote the formation of cortical cytoskeleton-polymerized actin through Rho activation. Thus, ezrin, actin, RhoGDI, Rho and plasma membrane proteins form a complicated network in vivo, which contributes to the assembly of the structure of the membrane surface. Previously, we showed that ezrin and RhoGDI1 are expressed in human testes. Thus, we sought to determine whether the ezrin-RhoGDIl-actin-membrane protein network has a role in human sperm capacitation. Our results by Western blot indicate that ezrin is activated by phosphorylation of the threonine567 residue during capacitation. Co-immunoprecipitation studies revealed that, during sperm capacitation, the interaction between ezrin and RhoGDI1 increases, and phosphostaining of two dimensional electrophoresis gels showed that RhoGDI 1 is phosphorylated, suggesting that RhoGDI 1 dissociates from RhoA and leads to actin polymerization on the sperm head. We speculate that activated ezrin interacts with polymerized actin and the glycosylated membrane protein cd44 after capacitation. Blocking sperm capacitation using ezrin- or actin-specific monoclonal antibodies decreases their acrosome reaction （AR） rate, but has no effect on the AR alone. Taken together, our results show that a network consisting of ezrin, RhoGDI1, RhoA, F-actin and membrane proteins functions to influence the modifications that occur on the membrane of the sperm head during human sperm capacitation.展开更多
The occurrence of tyrosine phosphorylation （TP） in the sperm head during capacitation has been poorly investigated, and no data exist on the relationship of its dynamics with the acquisition of sperm fertilizing abi...The occurrence of tyrosine phosphorylation （TP） in the sperm head during capacitation has been poorly investigated, and no data exist on the relationship of its dynamics with the acquisition of sperm fertilizing ability. This study localized TP of head proteins in human spermatozoa during capacitation and explored its relationship with acquisition of the ability to display progesterone （P）-stimulated acrosome reactions （ARs） and to penetrate zona-free hamster oocytes. By immunofluorescence, TP immunoreactivity was revealed in the acrosomal region of formaldehyde-fixed/unpermeabilized samples, whereas it was abolished in fixed/permeabilized samples, in which TP immunoreactivity was high in the principal piece. No TP immunoreaetivity was detectable in unfixed spermatozoa. Head TP immunoreactivity was localized externally to the acrosome, close to the cytoplasmic membrane, as assessed by transmission electron microscopy. The increase in head TP was an early event during capacitation, occurring within 1 h in capacitating conditions. At this time, the P-stimulated ARs were also increased, whereas egg penetration was as poor as in uncapacitated spermatozoa. At 5 h of capacitation, the extent of neither head TP nor the P-induced ARs were greater than that at 1 h, whereas egg penetration had significantly increased. Seminal plasma inhibited head TP, P-induced ARs and egg penetration. None of these inhibitory effects, unlike those on tail TP, were prevented by the cAMP analogue dbcAMP （N,2-O-dibutyryladenosine 3＇,5＇-cyclic monophosphate）. In conclusion, head TP is a subsurface event occurring early during capacitation and is closely related to acquisition of the ability to display P-stimulated ARs, whereas the ability to fuse with oolemma and to decondense is a later capacitation-related event.展开更多
Capacitation and acrosome reaction are important prerequisites of the fertilization process. Capacitation is a highlycomplex phenomenon occurring in the female genital tract, rendering the spermatozoa capable of bindi...Capacitation and acrosome reaction are important prerequisites of the fertilization process. Capacitation is a highlycomplex phenomenon occurring in the female genital tract, rendering the spermatozoa capable of binding and fusionwith the oocyte. During capacitation various biochemical and biophysical changes occur in the spermatozoa and thespermatozoal membranes. Ions and ion channels also play important roles in governing the process of capacitation bychanging the fluxes of different ions which in turn controls various characteristics of capacitated spermatozoa. Alongwith the mobilization of ions the generation of free radicals and efflux of cholesterol also plays an important role in thecapacitation state of the spermatozoa. The generation of free radical and efflux of cholesterol change the mechano-dynamic properties of the membrane by oxidation of the polyunsaturated lipids and by generating the cholesterol freepatches. The process of capacitation renders the spermatozoa responsive to the inducers of the acrosome reaction. Theglycoprotein zona pellucida 3 (ZP3) of the egg coat zona pellucida is the potent physiological stimulator of the acro-some reaction; progesterone, a major compoent of the follicular fluid, is also an induce of the acrosome reaction.The inducers of the acrosome reaction cause the activation of the various ion-channels leading to high influxes of calci-um, sodium and bicarbonate. The efflux of cholesterol during the process of capacitation alters the permeablity of themembrane to the ions and generate areas which are prone to fusion and vesculation process during the acrosome reac-tion. Ths review focuses mainly on effects of the ion and ion-channels, free radicals, and membrane fluidity changesduring the process of capacitation and acrosome reaction. (Asian J Androl 1999 Sep; 1: 95-107)展开更多
Background:Capacitation is a set of physiological changes sperms undergo to acquire fertilizing capacity.In vivo,this process is directly associated with high calcium levels in sperm cytoplasm.Calcitriol,the vitamin D...Background:Capacitation is a set of physiological changes sperms undergo to acquire fertilizing capacity.In vivo,this process is directly associated with high calcium levels in sperm cytoplasm.Calcitriol,the vitamin D hypercalcemic metabolite,is related to human sperm motility,capacitation,and acrosome reaction.This work aimed to study the effect of calcitriol on bull sperm quality parameters and capacitation.Methods:One million freezethawed spermatozoa were obtained from different bulls and treated with 20 nM of calcitriol for 30 min.Untreated cells(negative control)and treated ones with calcitriol or heparin(100μg/mL,positive capacitation control)were evaluated for motility,viability,and functional parameters.Menadione(70μM,30 min)treatment was included as a reactive oxygen species(ROS)positive sperm agent.Results:The results elucidated that sperm exposed to 20 nM calcitriol showed higher viability,vigor,and capacitation than their positive and negative controls.The percentage of sperm with intact plasma and acrosome membranes,mitochondrial membrane potential(ΔΨm),and phosphatidylserine externalization was similar in all the conditions evaluated,while ROS production was higher with heparin and menadione-treated groups than the calcitriol group or negative control.Conclusion:Our results indicate that calcitriol induces the capacitation of thawed bull spermatozoa and maintains acceptable values of progressive motility,viability,and vigor without altering key biological parameters such as redox status,ΔΨm,and cell death.展开更多
No Con A receptor site was found on the intact plasma membranes of mammalian sperms before capacitation.After capacitation, however, the plasma membranes sloughed off, exposing the outer acrosomal membrane which is ri...No Con A receptor site was found on the intact plasma membranes of mammalian sperms before capacitation.After capacitation, however, the plasma membranes sloughed off, exposing the outer acrosomal membrane which is rich in Con A receptor sites.The vesicles formed during acrosome reaction were also found to bc rich in Con A receptor sites, suggesting their origin from outer acrosomal membranes.With completion of acrosome reaction, only inner acrosomal membrane was left in which no Con A receptor sites could be demonstrated.Also no Con A receptor site was found on egg plasma membrane throughout fertilization.It was thus shown that different membranes possess different properties.展开更多
The sperm DNA fragmentation index(DFI)is a metric used to assess DNA fragmentation within sperm.During in vitro fertilizationembryo transfer(IVF-ET),high sperm DFI can lead to a low fertilization rate,poor embryo deve...The sperm DNA fragmentation index(DFI)is a metric used to assess DNA fragmentation within sperm.During in vitro fertilizationembryo transfer(IVF-ET),high sperm DFI can lead to a low fertilization rate,poor embryo development,early miscarriage,etc.A kinase anchoring protein(AKAP)is a scaffold protein that can bind protein kinase A(PKA)to subcellular sites of specific substrates and protects the biophosphorylation reaction.Sperm protein antigen 17(SPA17)can also bind to AKAP.This study intends to explore the reason for the decreased fertilization rate observed in high sperm DFI(H-DFI)patients during IVF-ET.In addition,the study investigates the expression of AKAP,protein kinase A regulatory subunit(PKARIl),and SPA17 between H-DFI and low sperm DFI(L-DFI)patients.SPA17 at the transcriptional level is abnormal,the translational level increases in H-DFI patients,and the expression of AKAP4/PKARIl protein decreases.H,O,has been used to simulate oxidative stress damage to spermatozoa during the formation of sperm DFI.It indicates that H,O,increases the expression of sperm SPA17 protein and suppresses AKAP4/PKARIl protein expression.These processes inhibit sperm capacitation and reduce acrosomal reactions.Embryo culture data and IVF outcomes have been documented.The H-DFI group has a lower fertilization rate.Therefore,the results indicate that the possible causes for the decreased fertilization rate in the H-DFI patients have included loss of sperm AKAP4/PKARIl proteins,blocked sperm capacitation,and reduced occurrence of acrosome reaction.展开更多
This chapter explores the possibility that capacitation and apoptosis are linked processes joined by their common dependence on the continued generation of reactive oxygen species （ROS）. According to this model capa...This chapter explores the possibility that capacitation and apoptosis are linked processes joined by their common dependence on the continued generation of reactive oxygen species （ROS）. According to this model capacitation is initiated in spematozoa following their release into the female reproductive tract as a consequence of intracellular ROS generation, which stimulates intracellular cAMP generation, inhibits tyrosine phosphatase activity and enhances the formation of oxysterols prior to their removal from the sperm surface by albumin. The continued generation of ROS by capacitating populations of spermatozoa eventually overwhelms the limited capacity of these cells to protect themselves from oxidative stress. As a result the over-capacitation of spermatozoa leads to a state of senescence and the activation of a truncated intrinsic apoptotic cascade characterized by enhanced mitochondrial RO$ generation, lipid peroxidation, motility loss, caspase activation and phosphatidylserine externalization. The latter may be particularly important in instructing phagocytic leukocytes that the removal of senescent, moribund spermatozoa should be a silent process unaccompanied by the generation of proinflammatory cytokines. These observations reveal the central role played by redox chemistry in defining the life and death of spermatozoa. A knowledge of these mechanisms may help us to engineer novel solutions to both support and preserve the functionality of these highly specialized cells.展开更多
Despite the fact that the phenomenon of capacitation was discovered over half century ago and much progress has been made in identifying sperm events involved in capacitation, few specific molecules of epididymal orig...Despite the fact that the phenomenon of capacitation was discovered over half century ago and much progress has been made in identifying sperm events involved in capacitation, few specific molecules of epididymal origin have been identified as being directly involved in this process in vivo. Previously, our group cloned and characterized a carboxyl esterase gene CesSa in the rat epididymis. The CES5A protein is mainly expressed in the corpus and cauda epididymidis and secreted into the corresponding lumens. Here, we report the function of CESSA in sperm maturation. By local injection of Lentivirus-mediated siRNA in the CESSA.expressing region of the rat epididymis, CesSa-knockdown animal models were created. These animals exhibited an inhibited sperm capacitation and a reduction in male fertility. These results suggest that CESSA plays an important role in sperm maturation and male fertility.展开更多
Chlortetracycline (CTC) fluorescence patterns were used to study changes in the patterns B and AR of mouse sperm after incubation with reagents that would block the UPP. They were the monoclonal antibody againstubiqui...Chlortetracycline (CTC) fluorescence patterns were used to study changes in the patterns B and AR of mouse sperm after incubation with reagents that would block the UPP. They were the monoclonal antibody againstubiquitinated proteins——UCPi; the polyclonal antibodyagainst ubiquitin-anti-Ub, and a special inhibitor againstproteasome——ALLN. Furthermore, we treated the capaci-tated sperm or the eggs with these reagents separately and tested whether the normal in vitro fertilization was blocked or not. Results illustrate that UCP1, anti-Ub, and ALLN have little effects on sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction, but they do inhibit fusion of mouse sperm with eggs, which suggests that UPP play an important role in mouse in vitro fertilization.展开更多
<正> A preliminary report on in vitro sperm capacitation and egg-penetration of giant panda is briefly presented. The panda spermatozoon consists of head, neck and tail, just like the spermatozoa of other animal...<正> A preliminary report on in vitro sperm capacitation and egg-penetration of giant panda is briefly presented. The panda spermatozoon consists of head, neck and tail, just like the spermatozoa of other animals. Before capacitation sperm heads clusterd together and dispersed after capacitation. They were then able to swim straight forwared. During the time of in vitro capacitation the plasm membrane of the sperm head was first expanded tov arious degrees, then disintegrated, and finally became detached. The electro-dense material in the acrosome appeared in small clumps with high density. Extensive vesiculation occurred between the bi-layered acrosome membranes and thus led to disintegration. Vesiculation in panda sperm differs from that reported in hamsters. When the capacitated panda spermatozoa came into contact with the hamster eggs, the region between the acrosome collar and postacrosome cap first fused with the egg membrane followed by the penetration of the nucleus into the cortex of the egg. Some o展开更多
Background Fenvalerate （FEN） has been demonstrated to be a reproductive toxicant in humans and rodents. However,little is known about whether short-term exposure to low-dose FEN produces reproductive toxicity.Method...Background Fenvalerate （FEN） has been demonstrated to be a reproductive toxicant in humans and rodents. However,little is known about whether short-term exposure to low-dose FEN produces reproductive toxicity.Methods We administered FEN （0.009 375, 0.1875, 3.750, or 45.00 mg·kg-1d-1 by gavage for 30 days） to male ICR mice and compared reproductive toxicity parameters between groups receiving different concentrations of FEN.Reproductive toxicity was evaluated by computer-assisted semen quality analysis （CASA）, chlortetracycline （CTC） assay,and histopathology.Results The sperm morphology and testis histology of FEN-exposed mice （all doses） were similar to that in controlling mice. Exposure to FEN at a concentration of 0.1875 mg·kg-1d-1 decreased sperm path straightness （STR） and linearity （LIN） （both P〈 0.05）, but had no significant impact on average path velocity （VAP）, straight line velocity （VSL）, curvilinear velocity （VCL）, lateral amplitude （ALH）, beat cross frequency （BCF）, or progressive motility （MOT）. FEN reduced the rate of mouse sperm capacitation in a dose-dependent manner.Conclusion The present results demonstrate that exposure to low-dose FEN for 30 days reduces semen quality and sperm capacitation in adult mice.展开更多
Low-electrode capacitive deionization(FCDI)is an emerging desalination technology with great potential for removal and/or recycling ions from a range of waters.However,it still suffers from inefficient charge transfer...Low-electrode capacitive deionization(FCDI)is an emerging desalination technology with great potential for removal and/or recycling ions from a range of waters.However,it still suffers from inefficient charge transfer and ion transport kinetics due to weak turbulence and low electric intensity in flow electrodes,both restricted by the current collectors.Herein,a new tip-array current collector(designated as T-CC)was developed to replace the conventional planar current collectors,which intensifies both the charge transfer and ion transport significantly.The effects of tip arrays on flow and electric fields were studied by both computational simulations and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy,which revealed the reduction of ion transport barrier,charge transport barrier and internal resistance.With the voltage increased from 1.0 to 1.5 and 2.0 V,the T-CC-based FCDI system(T-FCDI)exhibited average salt removal rates(ASRR)of 0.18,0.50,and 0.89μmol cm^(-2) min^(-1),respectively,which are 1.82,2.65,and 2.48 folds higher than that of the conventional serpentine current collectors,and 1.48,1.67,and 1.49 folds higher than that of the planar current collectors.Meanwhile,with the solid content in flow electrodes increased from 1 to 5 wt%,the ASRR for T-FCDI increased from 0.29 to 0.50μmol cm^(-2) min^(-1),which are 1.70 and 1.67 folds higher than that of the planar current collectors.Additionally,a salt removal efficiency of 99.89%was achieved with T-FCDI and the charge efficiency remained above 95%after 24 h of operation,thus showing its superior long-term stability.展开更多
A cascade of dramatic physiological events is linked to the sperm acrosome reaction and binding to the oocyte's zona pellucida during human sperm capacitation.However,structural and functional sperm changes during...A cascade of dramatic physiological events is linked to the sperm acrosome reaction and binding to the oocyte's zona pellucida during human sperm capacitation.However,structural and functional sperm changes during capacitation currently remain poorly defined.Here,we performed a multibiomarker approach based on the utilization of sperm concentration,motility,viability,morphology,acrosome reaction,tyrosine phosphorylation,DNA fragmentation,and lectin-binding sites to analyze the impact caused by swim-up selection times(uncapacitated,1 h capacitated,and 4 h capacitated)on sperm function and structure in normozoospermic samples.We found that a 4 h swim-up capacitation increased sperm quality,because a large number of cells with normal morphology and lower DNA fragmentation rates were recovered.Furthermore,the long-term capacitation induced a higher percentage of cells with tyrosine phosphorylation of the principal piece as well as a redistribution of lectin-binding sites.Overall,the multivariate biomarkers analyzed showed a less variable distribution on spermatozoa recovered after 4 h capacitation than that with the shorter capacitation time.These findings stress the importance of capacitation time as a relevant factor in sperm quality with potential biological reproductive implications both for basic research and in assisted reproduction techniques.展开更多
Capacitive voltage transformers (CVTs) are essential in high-voltage systems. An accurate error assessment is crucial for precise energy metering. However, tracking real-time quantitative changes in capacitive voltage...Capacitive voltage transformers (CVTs) are essential in high-voltage systems. An accurate error assessment is crucial for precise energy metering. However, tracking real-time quantitative changes in capacitive voltage transformer errors, particularly minor variations in multi-channel setups, remains challenging. This paper proposes a method for online error tracking of multi-channel capacitive voltage transformers using a Co-Prediction Matrix. The approach leverages the strong correlation between in-phase channels, particularly the invariance of the signal proportions among them. By establishing a co-prediction matrix based on these proportional relationships, The influence of voltage changes on the primary measurements is mitigated. Analyzing the relationships between the co-prediction matrices over time allows for inferring true measurement errors. Experimental validation with real-world data confirms the effectiveness of the method, demonstrating its capability to continuously track capacitive voltage transformer measurement errors online with precision over extended durations.展开更多
Solar-driven interface evaporation with high solar-to-steam conversion efficiency has shown great potential in seawater desalination.However,due to the influence of latent heat and condensation efficiency,the water yi...Solar-driven interface evaporation with high solar-to-steam conversion efficiency has shown great potential in seawater desalination.However,due to the influence of latent heat and condensation efficiency,the water yield from solar-driven interface evaporation remains insufficient,posing a significant challenge that requires resolution.In this work,we designed a dual-mode high-flux seawater desalination device that combines solar-driven interface evaporation and capacitive desalination.By utilizing coupled desalination materials exhibiting both photothermal conversion and capacitance activity,the device demonstrated photothermal evaporation rates of 1.41 and 0.97 kg m^(-2)h^(-1)for condensate water yield under one-sun irradiation.Additionally,the device exhibited a salt adsorption capacity of up to48 mg g^(-1)and a salt adsorption rate of 2.1 mg g^(-1)min-1.In addition,the salt adsorption capacity increased by approximately 32%under one-sun irradiation.Furthermore,photo-enhanced capacitive desalination performance was explored through numerical simulations and theoretical calculations.Theoretical calculations and characterizations confirmed that the defect energy levels formed by the introduction of sulfur vacancies can effectively widen the light absorption range,improve photothermal conversion performance,and stimulate more photoelectrons to participate in capacitive desalination.Concurrently,the electron distribution state of molybdenum disulfide with sulfur vacancies and surface defect sites contributes to ion/electron transport at the solid-liquid interface.This work provides a novel pathway for integrating solar vapor generation with other low-energy desalination technologies.展开更多
Despite the promising potential of transition metal oxides(TMOs)as capacitive deionization(CDI)electrodes,the actual capacity of TMOs electrodes for sodium storage is significantly lower than the theoretical capacity,...Despite the promising potential of transition metal oxides(TMOs)as capacitive deionization(CDI)electrodes,the actual capacity of TMOs electrodes for sodium storage is significantly lower than the theoretical capacity,posing a major obstacle.Herein,we prepared the kinetically favorable Zn_(x)Ni_(1−x)O electrode in situ growth on carbon felt(Zn_(x)Ni_(1−x)O@CF)through constraining the rate of OH^(−)generation in the hydrothermal method.Zn_(x)Ni_(1−x)O@CF exhibited a high-density hierarchical nanosheet structure with three-dimensional open pores,benefitting the ion transport/electron transfer.And tuning the moderate amount of redox-inert Zn-doping can enhance surface electroactive sites,actual activity of redox-active Ni species,and lower adsorption energy,promoting the adsorption kinetic and thermodynamic of the Zn_(0.2)Ni_(0.8)O@CF.Benefitting from the kinetic-thermodynamic facilitation mechanism,Zn_(0.2)Ni_(0.8)O@CF achieved ultrahigh desalination capacity(128.9 mgNaCl g^(-1)),ultra-low energy consumption(0.164 kW h kgNaCl^(-1)),high salt removal rate(1.21 mgNaCl g^(-1) min^(-1)),and good cyclability.The thermodynamic facilitation and Na^(+)intercalation mechanism of Zn_(0.2)Ni_(0.8)O@CF are identified by the density functional theory calculations and electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring,respectively.This research provides new insights into controlling electrochemically favorable morphology and demonstrates that Zn-doping,which is redox-inert,is essential for enhancing the electrochemical performance of CDI electrodes.展开更多
基金Bill&Melinda Gates Foundation(Grant number OPP1154401).
文摘Backgroud Before fertilization,spermatozoa undergo a crucial maturation step called capacitation,which is a unique event regulates the sperm’s ability for successful fertilization.The capacitation process takes place as the spermatozoa pass through the female reproductive tract(FRT).Dihydrolipoamide dehydrogenase(DLD)protein is a post-pyruvate metabolic enzyme,exhibiting reactive oxygen species(ROS)production which causes capacitation.Additionally,other vital functions of DLD in buffalo spermatozoa are hyperactivation and acrosome reaction.DLD produces the optimum amount of ROS required to induce capacitation process in FRT.Depending on physiological or patho-physiological conditions,DLD can either enhance or attenuate the production of reactive oxygen species(ROS).Aim of this study was to investigate whether changes in the production of ROS in sperm cells can impact their ability to fertilize by triggering the capacitation and acrosome reaction.Results In this study,abundance of DLD protein was quantified between high(n=5)and low fertile bull(n=5)sper-matozoa.It was found that compared to high-fertile(HF)bulls,low-fertile(LF)bulls exhibited significantly(P<0.05)higher DLD abundances.Herein,we optimised the MICA concentration to inhibit DLD function,spermatozoa were treated with MICA in time(0,1,2,3,4,and 5 h)and concentrations(1,2.5,5,and 10 mmol/L)dependent manner.Maximum DLD inhibition was found to be at 4 h in 10 mmol/L MICA concentration,which was used for further exper-imentation in HF and LF.Based on DLD inhibition it was seen that LF bull spermatozoa exhibited significantly(P<0.05)higher ROS production and acrosome reaction in comparison to the HF bull spermatozoa.The kinematic parameters of the spermatozoa such as percent total motility,velocity parameters(VCL,VSL,and VAP)and other parameters(BCF,STR,and LIN)were also decreased in MICA treated spermatozoa in comparison to the control(capacitated)spermatozoa.Conclusions The present study provides an initial evidence explaining the buffalo bull spermatozoa with higher DLD abundance undergo early capacitation,which subsequently reduces their capacity to fertilize.
基金Supported by Earmarked Fund for China Agriculture(Beef and Yak)Research System(NYCYTX-38)Key Agriculture Research and Development Program of Qiqihar(NYGG-201524)~~
文摘In order to improve the in vitro fertilization rate of bovine, the effects of different sperm capacitation methods on fertilization were investigated. Total two treatments were designed： two-time centrifugation （C）, and one-time centrifugation and swim-up method （CS）. The results showed that the cleavage rate in the C treatment group was （75.6±4.5）%, which showed no difference compared with that （（76.4±1.9）%） in the CS treatment group （P〉0.05）; there was also no significant dif- ference in blastocyst rate between the two treatment groups （（35.7±4.1）% vs. （36.3± 2.7）%, P〉0.05）. However, the CS treatment significantly saved the capacitation time in vitro.
基金National 973 Project of China(No.2006CB504002),Chinese National Prominent Youth Foundation(No.30425006)Program for Changjiang Scholars and Innovative Research Team in University(PCSIRT)(No.IRT0631)+1 种基金Research Grants Council(RGC)of Hong Kong(No.CUHK4524/05M)Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences and Focused Investment of the Chinese University of Hong Kong,China.
文摘Prior to fertilization sperm has to undergo an activation process known as capaciation,leading to the acrosome reaction.Till now,little is known about the mechanism for preventing premature capacitation in sperm although decapacitation factors from various sources have been thought to be involved.In this study,we report that NYD-SP27,an isoform of phospholipase C Zeta 1(PLCZ1),is localized to the sperm acrosome in mouse and human spermatozoa by immunofluorescence using a specific antibody.Western blot and double staining analyses show NYD-SP27 becomes detached from sperm,as they undergo capacitation and acrosome reaction.The absence of HCO_(3)^(-),a key factor in activating capacitation,from the capacitation-inducing medium prevents the loss of NYD-SP27 from sperm.The anti-NYD-SP27 antibody also prevents the loss of NYD-SP27 from sperm,reduced the number of capacitated sperm,inhibited the acrosome reaction induced by ATP and progesterone,and inhibited agonist-induced PLC-coupled Ca^(2+)mobilization in sperm,which can be mimicked by the PLC inhibitor,U73122.These data strongly suggest that NYD-SP27 is a physiological inhibitor of PLC that acts as an intrinsic decapacitation factor in sperm to prevent premature capacitation and acrosome reaction.
文摘Mammalian sperm must undergo a series of biochemical and physiological modifications, collectively called capacitation, in the female reproductive tract prior to the acrosome reaction （AR）. The mechanisms of these modifications are not well characterized though protein kinases were shown to be involved in the regulation of intracellular Ca2＋ during both capacitation and the AR. In the present review, we summarize some of the signaling events that are involved in capacitation. During the capacitation process, phosphatidyl-inositol-3-kinase （PI3K） is phosphorylated/activated via a protein kinase A （PKA）-dependent cascade, and downregulated by protein kinase C a （PKCa）. PKCa is active at the beginning of capacitation, resulting in PI3K inactivation. During capacitation, PKCa as well as PP172 is degraded by a PKA-dependent mechanism, allowing the activation of PI3K. The activation of PKA during capacitation depends mainly on cyclic adenosine monophosphate （cAMP） produced by the bicarbonate-dependent soluble adenylyl cyclase. This activation of PKA leads to an increase in actin polymerization, an essential process for the development of hyperactivated motility, which is necessary for successful fertilization. Actin polymerization is mediated by PIP2 in two ways： first, PIP2 acts as a cofactor for phospholipase D （PLD） activation, and second, as a molecule that binds and inhibits actin-severing proteins such as gelsolin. Tyrosine phosphorylation of gelsolin during capacitation by Src family kinase （SFK） is also important for its inactivation. Prior to the AR, gelsolin is released from PIP2 and undergoes dephosphorylation/activation, resulting in fast F-actin depolymerization, leading to the AR.
基金Acknowledgment This work was supported by grants from the 973 program （No. 2006CB504002）, the National Natural Science Foundation of China （No. 30630030）, the Program for the Scholars of Changjiang and the Innovative Research Team of the University （PCSIRT） （No. IRT0631） and the Jiangsu Youth Technological Innovation Projects Foundation （No. BK2007602）.
文摘Membrane modifications in sperm cells represent a key step in sperm capacitation; however, the molecular basis of these modifications is not fully understood. Ezrin is the best-studied member of the ezrin/radixin/merlin family. As a cross-linker between the cortical cytoskeleton and plasma membrane proteins, ezrin contributes to remodeling of the membrane surface structure. Furthermore, activated ezrin and the Rho dissociation inhibitor, RhoGDI, promote the formation of cortical cytoskeleton-polymerized actin through Rho activation. Thus, ezrin, actin, RhoGDI, Rho and plasma membrane proteins form a complicated network in vivo, which contributes to the assembly of the structure of the membrane surface. Previously, we showed that ezrin and RhoGDI1 are expressed in human testes. Thus, we sought to determine whether the ezrin-RhoGDIl-actin-membrane protein network has a role in human sperm capacitation. Our results by Western blot indicate that ezrin is activated by phosphorylation of the threonine567 residue during capacitation. Co-immunoprecipitation studies revealed that, during sperm capacitation, the interaction between ezrin and RhoGDI1 increases, and phosphostaining of two dimensional electrophoresis gels showed that RhoGDI 1 is phosphorylated, suggesting that RhoGDI 1 dissociates from RhoA and leads to actin polymerization on the sperm head. We speculate that activated ezrin interacts with polymerized actin and the glycosylated membrane protein cd44 after capacitation. Blocking sperm capacitation using ezrin- or actin-specific monoclonal antibodies decreases their acrosome reaction （AR） rate, but has no effect on the AR alone. Taken together, our results show that a network consisting of ezrin, RhoGDI1, RhoA, F-actin and membrane proteins functions to influence the modifications that occur on the membrane of the sperm head during human sperm capacitation.
文摘The occurrence of tyrosine phosphorylation （TP） in the sperm head during capacitation has been poorly investigated, and no data exist on the relationship of its dynamics with the acquisition of sperm fertilizing ability. This study localized TP of head proteins in human spermatozoa during capacitation and explored its relationship with acquisition of the ability to display progesterone （P）-stimulated acrosome reactions （ARs） and to penetrate zona-free hamster oocytes. By immunofluorescence, TP immunoreactivity was revealed in the acrosomal region of formaldehyde-fixed/unpermeabilized samples, whereas it was abolished in fixed/permeabilized samples, in which TP immunoreactivity was high in the principal piece. No TP immunoreaetivity was detectable in unfixed spermatozoa. Head TP immunoreactivity was localized externally to the acrosome, close to the cytoplasmic membrane, as assessed by transmission electron microscopy. The increase in head TP was an early event during capacitation, occurring within 1 h in capacitating conditions. At this time, the P-stimulated ARs were also increased, whereas egg penetration was as poor as in uncapacitated spermatozoa. At 5 h of capacitation, the extent of neither head TP nor the P-induced ARs were greater than that at 1 h, whereas egg penetration had significantly increased. Seminal plasma inhibited head TP, P-induced ARs and egg penetration. None of these inhibitory effects, unlike those on tail TP, were prevented by the cAMP analogue dbcAMP （N,2-O-dibutyryladenosine 3＇,5＇-cyclic monophosphate）. In conclusion, head TP is a subsurface event occurring early during capacitation and is closely related to acquisition of the ability to display P-stimulated ARs, whereas the ability to fuse with oolemma and to decondense is a later capacitation-related event.
文摘Capacitation and acrosome reaction are important prerequisites of the fertilization process. Capacitation is a highlycomplex phenomenon occurring in the female genital tract, rendering the spermatozoa capable of binding and fusionwith the oocyte. During capacitation various biochemical and biophysical changes occur in the spermatozoa and thespermatozoal membranes. Ions and ion channels also play important roles in governing the process of capacitation bychanging the fluxes of different ions which in turn controls various characteristics of capacitated spermatozoa. Alongwith the mobilization of ions the generation of free radicals and efflux of cholesterol also plays an important role in thecapacitation state of the spermatozoa. The generation of free radical and efflux of cholesterol change the mechano-dynamic properties of the membrane by oxidation of the polyunsaturated lipids and by generating the cholesterol freepatches. The process of capacitation renders the spermatozoa responsive to the inducers of the acrosome reaction. Theglycoprotein zona pellucida 3 (ZP3) of the egg coat zona pellucida is the potent physiological stimulator of the acro-some reaction; progesterone, a major compoent of the follicular fluid, is also an induce of the acrosome reaction.The inducers of the acrosome reaction cause the activation of the various ion-channels leading to high influxes of calci-um, sodium and bicarbonate. The efflux of cholesterol during the process of capacitation alters the permeablity of themembrane to the ions and generate areas which are prone to fusion and vesculation process during the acrosome reac-tion. Ths review focuses mainly on effects of the ion and ion-channels, free radicals, and membrane fluidity changesduring the process of capacitation and acrosome reaction. (Asian J Androl 1999 Sep; 1: 95-107)
基金Research was funded by grants from National University of Río Cuarto(UNRC)through the Secretary of Science and Technology(SECYT,PPI 2020-2022,Res 083).
文摘Background:Capacitation is a set of physiological changes sperms undergo to acquire fertilizing capacity.In vivo,this process is directly associated with high calcium levels in sperm cytoplasm.Calcitriol,the vitamin D hypercalcemic metabolite,is related to human sperm motility,capacitation,and acrosome reaction.This work aimed to study the effect of calcitriol on bull sperm quality parameters and capacitation.Methods:One million freezethawed spermatozoa were obtained from different bulls and treated with 20 nM of calcitriol for 30 min.Untreated cells(negative control)and treated ones with calcitriol or heparin(100μg/mL,positive capacitation control)were evaluated for motility,viability,and functional parameters.Menadione(70μM,30 min)treatment was included as a reactive oxygen species(ROS)positive sperm agent.Results:The results elucidated that sperm exposed to 20 nM calcitriol showed higher viability,vigor,and capacitation than their positive and negative controls.The percentage of sperm with intact plasma and acrosome membranes,mitochondrial membrane potential(ΔΨm),and phosphatidylserine externalization was similar in all the conditions evaluated,while ROS production was higher with heparin and menadione-treated groups than the calcitriol group or negative control.Conclusion:Our results indicate that calcitriol induces the capacitation of thawed bull spermatozoa and maintains acceptable values of progressive motility,viability,and vigor without altering key biological parameters such as redox status,ΔΨm,and cell death.
文摘No Con A receptor site was found on the intact plasma membranes of mammalian sperms before capacitation.After capacitation, however, the plasma membranes sloughed off, exposing the outer acrosomal membrane which is rich in Con A receptor sites.The vesicles formed during acrosome reaction were also found to bc rich in Con A receptor sites, suggesting their origin from outer acrosomal membranes.With completion of acrosome reaction, only inner acrosomal membrane was left in which no Con A receptor sites could be demonstrated.Also no Con A receptor site was found on egg plasma membrane throughout fertilization.It was thus shown that different membranes possess different properties.
基金This study was supported by Hebei Natural Science Foundation(H2022206019)Science and Technology(S and T)Program of Hebei(21377721D)+1 种基金Hebei Province Medical Technology Tracking Project(GZ2021028)Medical Science Research Project of Hebei Province(20170084,and 20211494).
文摘The sperm DNA fragmentation index(DFI)is a metric used to assess DNA fragmentation within sperm.During in vitro fertilizationembryo transfer(IVF-ET),high sperm DFI can lead to a low fertilization rate,poor embryo development,early miscarriage,etc.A kinase anchoring protein(AKAP)is a scaffold protein that can bind protein kinase A(PKA)to subcellular sites of specific substrates and protects the biophosphorylation reaction.Sperm protein antigen 17(SPA17)can also bind to AKAP.This study intends to explore the reason for the decreased fertilization rate observed in high sperm DFI(H-DFI)patients during IVF-ET.In addition,the study investigates the expression of AKAP,protein kinase A regulatory subunit(PKARIl),and SPA17 between H-DFI and low sperm DFI(L-DFI)patients.SPA17 at the transcriptional level is abnormal,the translational level increases in H-DFI patients,and the expression of AKAP4/PKARIl protein decreases.H,O,has been used to simulate oxidative stress damage to spermatozoa during the formation of sperm DFI.It indicates that H,O,increases the expression of sperm SPA17 protein and suppresses AKAP4/PKARIl protein expression.These processes inhibit sperm capacitation and reduce acrosomal reactions.Embryo culture data and IVF outcomes have been documented.The H-DFI group has a lower fertilization rate.Therefore,the results indicate that the possible causes for the decreased fertilization rate in the H-DFI patients have included loss of sperm AKAP4/PKARIl proteins,blocked sperm capacitation,and reduced occurrence of acrosome reaction.
文摘This chapter explores the possibility that capacitation and apoptosis are linked processes joined by their common dependence on the continued generation of reactive oxygen species （ROS）. According to this model capacitation is initiated in spematozoa following their release into the female reproductive tract as a consequence of intracellular ROS generation, which stimulates intracellular cAMP generation, inhibits tyrosine phosphatase activity and enhances the formation of oxysterols prior to their removal from the sperm surface by albumin. The continued generation of ROS by capacitating populations of spermatozoa eventually overwhelms the limited capacity of these cells to protect themselves from oxidative stress. As a result the over-capacitation of spermatozoa leads to a state of senescence and the activation of a truncated intrinsic apoptotic cascade characterized by enhanced mitochondrial RO$ generation, lipid peroxidation, motility loss, caspase activation and phosphatidylserine externalization. The latter may be particularly important in instructing phagocytic leukocytes that the removal of senescent, moribund spermatozoa should be a silent process unaccompanied by the generation of proinflammatory cytokines. These observations reveal the central role played by redox chemistry in defining the life and death of spermatozoa. A knowledge of these mechanisms may help us to engineer novel solutions to both support and preserve the functionality of these highly specialized cells.
文摘Despite the fact that the phenomenon of capacitation was discovered over half century ago and much progress has been made in identifying sperm events involved in capacitation, few specific molecules of epididymal origin have been identified as being directly involved in this process in vivo. Previously, our group cloned and characterized a carboxyl esterase gene CesSa in the rat epididymis. The CES5A protein is mainly expressed in the corpus and cauda epididymidis and secreted into the corresponding lumens. Here, we report the function of CESSA in sperm maturation. By local injection of Lentivirus-mediated siRNA in the CESSA.expressing region of the rat epididymis, CesSa-knockdown animal models were created. These animals exhibited an inhibited sperm capacitation and a reduction in male fertility. These results suggest that CESSA plays an important role in sperm maturation and male fertility.
基金This work was supported by the Special Funds for Major State Basic Research Projects (Grant No. G1999053901) the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 39430080).
文摘Chlortetracycline (CTC) fluorescence patterns were used to study changes in the patterns B and AR of mouse sperm after incubation with reagents that would block the UPP. They were the monoclonal antibody againstubiquitinated proteins——UCPi; the polyclonal antibodyagainst ubiquitin-anti-Ub, and a special inhibitor againstproteasome——ALLN. Furthermore, we treated the capaci-tated sperm or the eggs with these reagents separately and tested whether the normal in vitro fertilization was blocked or not. Results illustrate that UCP1, anti-Ub, and ALLN have little effects on sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction, but they do inhibit fusion of mouse sperm with eggs, which suggests that UPP play an important role in mouse in vitro fertilization.
基金Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Rockefeller Foundation, New York, USA
文摘<正> A preliminary report on in vitro sperm capacitation and egg-penetration of giant panda is briefly presented. The panda spermatozoon consists of head, neck and tail, just like the spermatozoa of other animals. Before capacitation sperm heads clusterd together and dispersed after capacitation. They were then able to swim straight forwared. During the time of in vitro capacitation the plasm membrane of the sperm head was first expanded tov arious degrees, then disintegrated, and finally became detached. The electro-dense material in the acrosome appeared in small clumps with high density. Extensive vesiculation occurred between the bi-layered acrosome membranes and thus led to disintegration. Vesiculation in panda sperm differs from that reported in hamsters. When the capacitated panda spermatozoa came into contact with the hamster eggs, the region between the acrosome collar and postacrosome cap first fused with the egg membrane followed by the penetration of the nucleus into the cortex of the egg. Some o
文摘Background Fenvalerate （FEN） has been demonstrated to be a reproductive toxicant in humans and rodents. However,little is known about whether short-term exposure to low-dose FEN produces reproductive toxicity.Methods We administered FEN （0.009 375, 0.1875, 3.750, or 45.00 mg·kg-1d-1 by gavage for 30 days） to male ICR mice and compared reproductive toxicity parameters between groups receiving different concentrations of FEN.Reproductive toxicity was evaluated by computer-assisted semen quality analysis （CASA）, chlortetracycline （CTC） assay,and histopathology.Results The sperm morphology and testis histology of FEN-exposed mice （all doses） were similar to that in controlling mice. Exposure to FEN at a concentration of 0.1875 mg·kg-1d-1 decreased sperm path straightness （STR） and linearity （LIN） （both P〈 0.05）, but had no significant impact on average path velocity （VAP）, straight line velocity （VSL）, curvilinear velocity （VCL）, lateral amplitude （ALH）, beat cross frequency （BCF）, or progressive motility （MOT）. FEN reduced the rate of mouse sperm capacitation in a dose-dependent manner.Conclusion The present results demonstrate that exposure to low-dose FEN for 30 days reduces semen quality and sperm capacitation in adult mice.
基金supported by the Shenzhen Science and Technology Program(JCYJ20230808105111022,JCYJ20220818095806013)Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong(2023A1515012267)+1 种基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(22178223)the Royal Society/NSFC cost share program(IEC\NSFC\223372).
文摘Low-electrode capacitive deionization(FCDI)is an emerging desalination technology with great potential for removal and/or recycling ions from a range of waters.However,it still suffers from inefficient charge transfer and ion transport kinetics due to weak turbulence and low electric intensity in flow electrodes,both restricted by the current collectors.Herein,a new tip-array current collector(designated as T-CC)was developed to replace the conventional planar current collectors,which intensifies both the charge transfer and ion transport significantly.The effects of tip arrays on flow and electric fields were studied by both computational simulations and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy,which revealed the reduction of ion transport barrier,charge transport barrier and internal resistance.With the voltage increased from 1.0 to 1.5 and 2.0 V,the T-CC-based FCDI system(T-FCDI)exhibited average salt removal rates(ASRR)of 0.18,0.50,and 0.89μmol cm^(-2) min^(-1),respectively,which are 1.82,2.65,and 2.48 folds higher than that of the conventional serpentine current collectors,and 1.48,1.67,and 1.49 folds higher than that of the planar current collectors.Meanwhile,with the solid content in flow electrodes increased from 1 to 5 wt%,the ASRR for T-FCDI increased from 0.29 to 0.50μmol cm^(-2) min^(-1),which are 1.70 and 1.67 folds higher than that of the planar current collectors.Additionally,a salt removal efficiency of 99.89%was achieved with T-FCDI and the charge efficiency remained above 95%after 24 h of operation,thus showing its superior long-term stability.
基金the Human Fertility Chair,the Department of Biotechnology of the University of Alicante(VIGROB-186)the project of the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness(AGL2015-70159-P).
文摘A cascade of dramatic physiological events is linked to the sperm acrosome reaction and binding to the oocyte's zona pellucida during human sperm capacitation.However,structural and functional sperm changes during capacitation currently remain poorly defined.Here,we performed a multibiomarker approach based on the utilization of sperm concentration,motility,viability,morphology,acrosome reaction,tyrosine phosphorylation,DNA fragmentation,and lectin-binding sites to analyze the impact caused by swim-up selection times(uncapacitated,1 h capacitated,and 4 h capacitated)on sperm function and structure in normozoospermic samples.We found that a 4 h swim-up capacitation increased sperm quality,because a large number of cells with normal morphology and lower DNA fragmentation rates were recovered.Furthermore,the long-term capacitation induced a higher percentage of cells with tyrosine phosphorylation of the principal piece as well as a redistribution of lectin-binding sites.Overall,the multivariate biomarkers analyzed showed a less variable distribution on spermatozoa recovered after 4 h capacitation than that with the shorter capacitation time.These findings stress the importance of capacitation time as a relevant factor in sperm quality with potential biological reproductive implications both for basic research and in assisted reproduction techniques.
文摘Capacitive voltage transformers (CVTs) are essential in high-voltage systems. An accurate error assessment is crucial for precise energy metering. However, tracking real-time quantitative changes in capacitive voltage transformer errors, particularly minor variations in multi-channel setups, remains challenging. This paper proposes a method for online error tracking of multi-channel capacitive voltage transformers using a Co-Prediction Matrix. The approach leverages the strong correlation between in-phase channels, particularly the invariance of the signal proportions among them. By establishing a co-prediction matrix based on these proportional relationships, The influence of voltage changes on the primary measurements is mitigated. Analyzing the relationships between the co-prediction matrices over time allows for inferring true measurement errors. Experimental validation with real-world data confirms the effectiveness of the method, demonstrating its capability to continuously track capacitive voltage transformer measurement errors online with precision over extended durations.
基金financially supported by research grants from the Natural Science Foundation of China(52173235,22265010,12204071,62074022)National Key Research and Development Program of China(2022YFB3803300)+2 种基金Youth Talent Support Program of Chongqing(CQYC2021059206)Hainan Province Science and Technology Special Fund(ZDYF2024SHFZ038)Science and Technology Innovation and Improving Project of Army Medical University(No.2021XJS24)。
文摘Solar-driven interface evaporation with high solar-to-steam conversion efficiency has shown great potential in seawater desalination.However,due to the influence of latent heat and condensation efficiency,the water yield from solar-driven interface evaporation remains insufficient,posing a significant challenge that requires resolution.In this work,we designed a dual-mode high-flux seawater desalination device that combines solar-driven interface evaporation and capacitive desalination.By utilizing coupled desalination materials exhibiting both photothermal conversion and capacitance activity,the device demonstrated photothermal evaporation rates of 1.41 and 0.97 kg m^(-2)h^(-1)for condensate water yield under one-sun irradiation.Additionally,the device exhibited a salt adsorption capacity of up to48 mg g^(-1)and a salt adsorption rate of 2.1 mg g^(-1)min-1.In addition,the salt adsorption capacity increased by approximately 32%under one-sun irradiation.Furthermore,photo-enhanced capacitive desalination performance was explored through numerical simulations and theoretical calculations.Theoretical calculations and characterizations confirmed that the defect energy levels formed by the introduction of sulfur vacancies can effectively widen the light absorption range,improve photothermal conversion performance,and stimulate more photoelectrons to participate in capacitive desalination.Concurrently,the electron distribution state of molybdenum disulfide with sulfur vacancies and surface defect sites contributes to ion/electron transport at the solid-liquid interface.This work provides a novel pathway for integrating solar vapor generation with other low-energy desalination technologies.
基金supported by The National Natural Science Foundation of China(22276137,52170087)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(XJEDU2023Z009).
文摘Despite the promising potential of transition metal oxides(TMOs)as capacitive deionization(CDI)electrodes,the actual capacity of TMOs electrodes for sodium storage is significantly lower than the theoretical capacity,posing a major obstacle.Herein,we prepared the kinetically favorable Zn_(x)Ni_(1−x)O electrode in situ growth on carbon felt(Zn_(x)Ni_(1−x)O@CF)through constraining the rate of OH^(−)generation in the hydrothermal method.Zn_(x)Ni_(1−x)O@CF exhibited a high-density hierarchical nanosheet structure with three-dimensional open pores,benefitting the ion transport/electron transfer.And tuning the moderate amount of redox-inert Zn-doping can enhance surface electroactive sites,actual activity of redox-active Ni species,and lower adsorption energy,promoting the adsorption kinetic and thermodynamic of the Zn_(0.2)Ni_(0.8)O@CF.Benefitting from the kinetic-thermodynamic facilitation mechanism,Zn_(0.2)Ni_(0.8)O@CF achieved ultrahigh desalination capacity(128.9 mgNaCl g^(-1)),ultra-low energy consumption(0.164 kW h kgNaCl^(-1)),high salt removal rate(1.21 mgNaCl g^(-1) min^(-1)),and good cyclability.The thermodynamic facilitation and Na^(+)intercalation mechanism of Zn_(0.2)Ni_(0.8)O@CF are identified by the density functional theory calculations and electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation monitoring,respectively.This research provides new insights into controlling electrochemically favorable morphology and demonstrates that Zn-doping,which is redox-inert,is essential for enhancing the electrochemical performance of CDI electrodes.
