[Predictive value of non-automated spermatic parameters and automated kinetic parameters on cleavage rate in fertilization in vitro]. / Valeur prédictive des paramètres spermatiques non automatisés et des paramètres cinétiques automatisés sur les taux de clivage en fécondation in vitro.

The aim of this work was to determine retrospectively in 114 couples the predictive value of semen analysis for the in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcome when sperm evaluation before IVF was assessed by either conventional parameters or a Hamilton-Thorne automated motility analyser. A backward logistic regression analysis was used to study the relative contribution of each conventional or computerized parameter. Computerized sperm values were the worst index for predicting oocyte fertilization. However a tight relationship between morphology and cleavage ratio was observed. Using ROC analysis, under a 18% threshold, cleavage failure was noted in 71% of couples undergoing an IVF program. This study indicates that morphology is the best parameter for predicting cleavage failure.

Comparison of two techniques used to collect normal and motile sperm.

To improve the quality of sperm for intra-uterine insemination (IUI) or in-vitro fertilization (IVF) swim-up (SU) and migration-sedimentation (MS) methods were compared, for the selection of morphologically normal and motile sperm. In 74 patients consulting for couple infertility, it was shown that MS gave a better yield of motile sperm than did SU. An improvement in morphology and motility was achieved, especially in asthenospermia (motility less than 40%) and/or teratospermia (normal shape less than 40%). The percentage of midpiece and tail abnormalities was lowered by the MS technique. It is proposed that the MS method be used for IUI and IVF, adapting the number of tubes to the initial sperm concentration.

Supernumerary microtubules and prolongation of the middle piece in two infertile patients.

A new type of sperm abnormality was described in two patients. There was at the same time a high percentage of immotile spermatozoa, supernumerary microtubules organized in more or less complete axonemes, and prolongation of the middle piece, whose mitochondria retain their normal enzymatic activity.

A method of comparing spermatozoa with light and scanning electron microscopy.

A new method of comparing light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy in the study of small cells, such as spermatozoa, that must be examined under oil immersion is described. A grid is etched on the corner of a microscope glass slide, and its inner edges are incised. Its surface area is calculated as a function f the chamber of the critical-point drying apparatus. This method dispenses with the need for any special coverslip and enables the cells to be observed under oil immersion.

[Analysis of 144 spermocytograms (author's transl)]. / Analyse de 144 spermocytogrammes

PIP: Male responsibility is about 40% in all cases of marital infertility. Spermocytograms allow the researchers to isolate pure morphological syndromes, such as microcephaly, and are a valuable tool in prognosis, since the consequences of most such anomalies on the fertilizing power of the sperm are well known. 144 spermocytograms were done by the authors at the request of 144 sterile couples. The spermocytograms were classified according to the system proposed by David et al. In investigating the incidence and the importance of the various abnormalities it was noted that forms of lengthened heads were preponderant, while abnormalities in the flagella were rare. Spermocytograms were divided into pure and mixed syndromes: pure syndromes, with anomalies of a single type, permitted the prognosis of the fertilizing power of the sperm; and mixed syndromes, with anomalies of several types, permitted the identification of diseases such as varicocele.^ieng