Computer-aided semen analysis variables as predictors of male fertility potential.

A computer-aided semen analysis (CASA) was used to allow digitizing the motion of the spermatozoon. This procedure allows an objective means of judging semen quality, especially the translational movements of spermatozoa. Forty-three couples were included in the study. The average age of the male was 35.5 +/- 4.7 years and that of the female was 32.7 +/- 4.7 years. The average duration of infertility was 3.8 +/- 2.3 years. Using multiple linear regression analysis of 26 prognostic variables, a cluster of 8 variables significantly predicted pregnancy maximally. The 8 variables and the resultant multiple correlation coefficients were used to generate a multiple regression equation which allowed the correct separation of the population into fertile and infertile couples. The mean pregnancy predictor values of the fertile and infertile populations were significantly different using the analysis of variance.

Dynamics of central venous catheter-related sepsis in rats.

To determine when catheter-related sepsis clears after removal of an infected central venous catheter (CVC) and when a new sterile CVC can be inserted without risk of recolonization, a catheter infected with 10(5) CFU of Staphylococcus epidermidis per ml was inserted into 40 Fischer 344 rats. Five control rats had sterile catheters. Insertion of an infected CVC was followed by a significant rise in leukocytes after 4 days and the presence of S. epidermidis in lungs, livers, spleens, kidneys, and the catheter tip, as examined by bacteriological assay. After the infected catheter was removed, the rat recovered from the induced catheter-related sepsis within 12 h. When a new sterile CVC was inserted into the femoral vein, the leukocyte count remained normal, and all catheter tips and tissue cultures were sterile 4 days later.