Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics I

Into the “GENERAL OBJECTIVES” of the Degree in Veterinary Medicine imparted by the USC it is stated: “Education in Veterinary Sciences has the aim of enduing students with the knowledge, techniques, skills and aptitudes appropriate for the profession”.
Therefore, the “General objectives” can be summarized as the training of graduates in the knowledge and professional capacitation needed to guarantee animal and human health, by means of:
- Control of hygiene, inspection and production technology and elaboration of food for human consumption from the primary production to the end consumer.
- Prevention, diagnosis and individual or collective treatment, as well as fighting against animal diseases, either as individuals or collectives, particularly in the case of zoonoses.
- Control of breeding, management, welfare, reproduction, protection and nutrition of animals, and optimization of animal productions.
- Obtaining, in excellent and profitable conditions, products of animal origin and evaluating their environmental impact.
- Knowledge of laws, regulations and administrative provisions and their application to all fields of the Veterinary profession and public health, understanding ethical implications of health in a world-wide context of transformation.
- Development of professional practice in relation with other health professionals, acquiring skills relative to team work, efficient use of resources and quality management.
- Identification of emerging risks in all fields of the Veterinary profession.

ESPECIFIC OBJECTIVES OF THE SUBJECT
-Knowledge of the structual and functional basis of reproductive activity
-Knowledge and understanding the reproductive cycle in the main domestic species.

INTERACTIVE SESSIONS

Before attending the clinical practices of Reproduction and Obstetrics II an Technology of reproduction, students must complete the "rectal examination in the cow, mare and sow" module in the clinical skills laboratory, otherwise they will not be able to access said practices.

Clinical Practice 1 (ROI C1) (3 h). Fundamentals of genital exploration in cows. Clinical training will be done at the facilities of the unit of Reproduction and Obstetrics, where the students will recall basic aspects of the anatomy and physiology of the genital system. By using genital tracts from abattoir and the recently acquired simulator, students will learn how to manipulate the genital tract of the cow and the technique of cervical catheterization.
This practice will serve as the basis for other practices taught in Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics II, such as rectal palpation and ultrasound, and in Technology of Reproduction (artificial insemination). Practices will be imparted in 10-student groups.

Clinical Practice 2 (ROI C2) (3 h). Semen Evaluation. This clinical practice will be done at the facilities of the unit of Reproduction and Obstetrics. It is aimed to learn the basic aspects of spermatology in the different domestic species so that the students are able to determine the quality of an ejaculate or a frozen-thawed semen sample. Practices will be imparted in 10-student groups.

Clinical Practice 3 (ROI C3) (3 h). Vaginal cytology in the bitch. This clinical practice will be done at the facilities of the unit of Reproduction and Obstetrics, is aimed to learn how to do and interpret vaginal cytology in the bitch to identify the different phases of the oestrous cycle in this species. Practices will be imparted in 10-student groups.

SEMINARS
Seminar 1 (RO I SI) (2h).- Applications of ultrasound in bovine reproduction

GROUP WORKS

During the quarter, students will have to do a team work on different issues related with anatomy and physiology of reproduction in domestic species. At the onset of the course, several themes will be proposed. Each group will have to do a manuscript and an oral presentation. Oral presentations will be done during November. The score awarded will account for 10% of the final note of the subject.

EXPOSITIVE SESSIONS

BLOCK I.-BIOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF REPRODUCTION (10 h)

Chapter 1. Concept of the subject and historical introduction (0.5 h). This chapter includes a brief historical introduction as well as a presentation of the course, of the evaluation system, and of the recommended literature. The virtual course on “Reproduction and Obstetrics I” will be presented to the students.

Chapter 2. Reproductive endocrinology (2 h). In this chapter we will review briefly the main endocrine events that regulate reproduction. Most of the concepts included in this chapter are already known by students as they were addressed in previous courses, but given their importance for this subject, we want to review the main concepts and encourage individual efforts to reinforce the students’ knowledge. We will focus our attention on the hypothalamus-hypophysis-gonad axis, origin and functions of protein and steroid hormones, prostaglandins, and the pineal gland.

Chapter 3. Ovogenesis and folliculogenesis (2 h). We are going to review the main biological processes involved in the generation of female gametes, as well as the different biological mechanisms or strategies used by different animal species to achieve efficient reproduction and maximize offspring survival. Therefore, we will focus our attention on ovogenesis and folliculogenesis, ovulation, and neuroendocrine regulation of the ovarian and estral cycles.

Chapter 4. Spermatozoa and seminal plasma (1.5 h). In this chapter we will study the biological processes involved in the formation and differentiation of male gametes and neuroendocrine regulations: structure and ultrastructure of the mature spermatozoon, spermatogenesis and spermiogenesis, sperm maturation during epidydimal transit and seminal plasma formation.

Chapter 5. Sexual behaviour in domestic animals (1.5 h). This chapter is dedicated to study the main behavioural characteristics exhibited by the different domestic species during natural breeding. We will describe the general sequence of copulatory behaviour including courtship, copulation and postcopulatory period, as well as the main factors affecting sexual conduct in animals.

Chapter 6. Fertilization (2.5 h). Once copulation has allowed the male gametes to gain access to the female genital tract, the next step is to know which mechanisms are involved in oocyte fertilization and embryo development. Specifically, we will talk about oocyte maturation, sperm capacitation, sperm transport and reservoir colonization in the female genital tract, sperm-oocyte binding and interaction, and early embryo development.
Mechanisms involved in embryo implantation and placenta development will be studied separately for each species along the following chapters.

BLOCK II.-REPRODUCTION IN RUMINANTS (10 h)

Chapter 7. Reproductive patterns in ruminants: we will deal with the different stages the female goes through her reproductive life. Puberty (2 h): definition, factors that affect onset of puberty, endocrine mechanisms. Dynamics of follicular growth. Characteristics of ovarian and oestrous cycles. Heat detection. Ovulation.

Chapter 8. Ovulation, fertilization, early embryo development, pregnancy (2 h): in this chapter, we will deal with the different physiological events involved in establishment and maintenance of pregnancy in bovine females.

Chapter 9. The parturition (4 h): we will analyse the endocrine and mechanical processes that take place during a normal parturition. Signs of imminent parturition and its physiological stages will be described.We will assess the concepts describing foetal position and the correct protocol of action regarding mother and neonate. Finally, we will describe dystocic partutrition, its diagnosis, the different types of dystocia, the methods used for its resolution and its consequences for the fetus and for the female.

Chapter 10. Puerperium (1 h): this stage is critical for the reproductive performance of the female, as during this period numerous structural and functional changes take place that will be essential for the establishment of a new pregnancy. We will address concepts such as uterine involution, endometrial regeneration, restarting of cyclic ovarian activity, elimination of bacterial contamination or factors affecting the length of postpartum period.

Chapter 11. Breeding soundness evaluation of males (1 h). We will describe the male sexual behaviour and the main factors affecting onset of puberty, and we will do especial emphasis on the selection of bulls from a reproductive perspective.

BLOCK III.-REPRODUCTION IN HORSES (3.5 h)

Chapter 12. Reproductive patterns of mares (1,5 h). We will talk about the reproductive physiology in the different life stages of the female: puberty, fertile life and climaterium. The oestrous cycle with its follicular dynamics and endocrinology will be studied, as well as the seasonal patterns of reproduction.

Chapter 13. Pregnancy, parturition, and puerperium (1,5 h): the physiology of pregnancy related to endocrinology and embryo and foetal development will be studied; the physiological mechanisms that initiate parturition and its stages, as well as the main postpartum events will also be assessed.

Chapter 14. Reproductive management of the stallion (0,5 h). We will review the reproductive physiology of the male as well as its puberty and normal sexual behaviour.


BLOCK IV.- REPRODUCTION IN PIGS (2,5 h)

Chapter 15. Reproductive patterns of sows (50 min). This chapter includes the study of puberty and factors affecting the onset of puberty, physiology of the oestrous cycle, dynamics of follicular growth, and oestrus behaviour and detection.

Chapter 16. Pregnancy, parturition, and puerperium (50 min): the physiology of pregnancy related to endocrinology and embryo and foetal development will be studied; the physiological mechanisms that initiate parturition and its stages, as well as the main postpartum events namely uterine involution and restart of cyclic ovarian activity, will also be reviewed.

Chapter 17. Reproductive management of the boar (50 min). We will learn how to manage and evaluate the breeding soundness of boars. Factors taken into account for the selection of future reproducers and factors affecting boar fertility will also be studied.


BLOCK V.- REPRODUCTION IN DOMESTIC CARNIVORES (5 h)


Chapter 18. Physiology and endocrinology of the oestrous cycle in the bitch (2 h). This chapter includes the study of the characteristics of the oestrous cycle, the endocrinology of the ovarian cycle, pseudopregnancy and the identification of the fertile period of the bitch.

Chapter 19. Physiology and endocrinology of the oestrous cycle in the queen (1 h). We will define the reproductive characteristics of the domestic queen with especial attention to puberty, reproductive seasonality, oestrous cycle characteristics and the reproductive endocrinology of the queen.

Chapter 20. Pregnancy in the bitch and queen (1 h). The endocrinology of pregnancy as well as the main physical changes of the pregnant females will be comparatively addressed in the two species.

Chapter 21. Eutocic parturition in bitches and queens (1 h). We will learn the characteristics of normal parturition in the bitch and queen, reviewing the mechanisms that initiate parturition and its different stages.

General bibliography
-Derivaux J, Ectors F. (1984) Fisiopatología de la reproducción y obstetricia veterinaria. Acribia. Zaragoza.
-Hafez ESE. (1996) Reproducción e inseminación artificial en animales. 3ª edición en español. Interamericana McGraw-Hill. México.
-Joy KP, Krishna A, Haldar C. (1999) Comparative endocrinology and reproduction. Springer-Verlag. Berlín.
-Knobil E, Neill JD. (1994) The Physiology of Reproduction. Second edition. Volumes 1 and 2. Raven Press, New York.
-Knobil E, Neill JD. (1998) Encyclopedia of reproduction. Academic Press. San Diego.
-McDonald LE, Pineda MH (1991). Endocrinología veterinaria y reproducción. Interamericana McGraw-Hill. México.
-Thibault C, Levasseur MC. (1991) La reproduction chez les mammifères et l’homme. INRA. París.
-Senger PL. (2003). Pathways to pregnancy and parturition. Current Conceptions, Inc. 2nd Edition. Washington.
-Arthur, G.H.; Noakes, D.E. y Pearson, H. (1991) Reproducción y Obstetricia en Veterinaria. E. Interamericana McGraw-Hill. Madrid.
-Brackett, GB; Seidel, GE y Seidel SM (1988). Avances en zootecnia: Nuevas técnicas de reproducción animal. Acribia. Zaragoza
Specific bibliography
-Chenoweth P. J. (2000) Impulso sexual del toro y comportamiento reproductivo En “Topics in bull fertility”. www.ivis.org
-Derivaux, J. (1984). Fisiopatología de la gestación y obstetricia veterinaria. Ed. Acribia, D.L. Zaragoza
-Evans GB y Maxwell WM (1990). Inseminación artificial en ovejas y cabras. Acribia. Zaragoza.
-Gordon I. (1996) Controlled reproduction in sheep and goats. Cab International. Cambridge.
-Gordon I. (1999) Reproducción controlada del ganado vacuno y búfalos. Acribia. Zaragoza.
-Grunert E y Berchtold M. (1988) Infertilidad en la vaca. Hemisferios sur. Buenos Aires.
-Grunert, E. (1990). Obstetricia del Bovino. Ed. Hemisferio Sur. Buenos Aires.
-Jackson, P.G.G. (1995). Handbook of veterinary obstetrics. Ed. W.B. Saunders, cop. London.
-McClure TJ. (1995) Infertilidad nutricional y metabólica de la vaca. Acribia. Zaragoza.
-Peters AR, Ball PJH. (1991) Reproducción del ganado vacuno. Acribia. Zaragoza.
-Quintela L.A.; Díaz C.; Herradón P.G.; Peña A.I.; Becerra J.J. (2006). Ecografía y Reproducción en la Vaca. Ed. Quintela, Herradón, Peña y Becerra. Servicio Publicaciones e Intercambio Científico USC. Santiago de Compostela. España.
-Quintela L.A., Díaz C. Becerra J.J.; Herradón P.G. (2009). Atlas de Ecografía en la Vaca. Ed. Quintela L.A. Fatro Ibérica. Barcelona. España.
-Sloss V y Dufty H (1980). Handbook of bovine obstetrics. Williams and Wilkins Co. Baltimore
-Spitzer J.C. (2000). Evaluación de la salud reproductiva del toro: estado actual. En “Topics in bull fertility”. www.ivis.org
-Youngquist, RS (1997). Current Therapy in Large Animal Theriogenology.
-Ultrasonography and reproduction in swine: Principles and practical applications. INRA editions. Paris.
-Brinsko, S.P., Blanchard, T.L.,Varner, D.D., Schumacher, J., Love, C.C., Hin-Richs, K., Hartman, D. (2011). Manual of equine reproduction. 3ª Ed. Editorial Mosby elsevier. Maryland Heights, Missouri.
-Mckinnon, A.O., Voss, J.L. (1993). Equine reproduction. Editorial Willians and Wilkins. EEUU.

1.-General competences:

GVUSC01: learning and adaptation ability
GVUSC02: analysis and synthesis ability
GVUSC05: ability to apply knowledge to practice
GVUSC06: ability for autonomous and teamwork
GVUSC08: leadership, initiative, and entrepreneurial spirit
GVUSC09: communication abilities in different areas
GVUSC10: ethical commitment and responsibility assumption

2.-Disciplinary specific competences:

CEDVUSC18: Knowledge of the basic procedures to warrant the correct reproductive activity as well as the technological processes and methods for resolution of obstetrical problems.

3.-Professional specific competences:

D1VUSC09: Application of the basic procedures to warrant a correct reproductive activity, the technological processes and methods for resolution of obstetrical problems.

4. Academic specific competences:

CEAVUSC01: analysing, synthesizing, problem solving and decision making in professional areas of the veterinarian.
CEAVUSC02: exhibiting ethical behaviour in the practice of their responsibilities either to the veterinary profession and society.
CEAVUSC03: divulgation of the information obtained during the professional exercise as a veterinarian, with fluency either orally or written, with colleagues, authorities, and the society in general.
CEAVUSC04: searching and management of information related to veterinary activity.
CEAVUSC05: knowledge and application of the scientific method in the professional practice including evidence-based medicine.
CEAVUSC07: having basic knowledge of a foreign language, especially in technical aspects related to veterinary sciences.
CEAVUSC08: being aware of needing updated knowledge, abilities and attitudes of professional competences by means of a permanent education process.

5.-Cross competences:

CTVUSC01: ability for reasoning and argumentation.
CTVUSC02: ability to obtain adequate, diverse, and updated information by different media, such as bibliographical information or internet, and critically analyse it.
CTVUSC03: ability to elaborate and present an organized and understandable text.
CTVUSC04: ability to do a clear, coherent and concise public exposition
CTVUSC05: ability for ICTs management
CTVUSC06: use and information of foreign language
CTVUSC07: ability for solving problems by the integrated application of knowledge

As this is a subject oriented to veterinary professionals, we intend to accomplish with the following methodological conditions:
a. Keep a balance between acquisition of theoretical knowledge and practical abilities
b. Encourage continuous search of new information: reproduction is not a static discipline, but it is continuously evolving, so the student needs to learn how to get new information and analyse it critically.
Inside this structure, we can describe several parts for this course:
A. A first part of theoretical work, in which the professor will expose the chapters included in the program and the student should acquire the basic knowledge of the discipline. The students should complete the assistance to lectures with the reading of recommended texts to increase their knowledge.
B. Practical work: During the course the students should assist and actively participate in the practical sessions of the subject, to learn the practical abilities needed for their future professional exercise.
The practices will take place in the laboratories of the Reproduction and Obstetrics units (Veterinary Faculty), located on the first floor of the Rof Codina Veterinary Hospital
Supports to the course:
During the whole course, the students will have personal support from the different professors of the discipline, in the timetable assigned to tutorials. It is recommended to assist, at least once for each block of chapters. Virtual support is also provided to enable communication with all the docents by means of e-mail, forums, etc.
Such virtual support is given through the virtual course named Reproducción y Obstetricia Veterinaria I to which all students enrolled in the subject will have access. Complementary information and exam models for self-evaluation will be available in the virtual course.

For the final evaluation of students, all the activities performed during the course will be taken into account. The following aspects will be considered:
1. Follow-up tests of the expository teaching: several tests will be done during the course to evaluate how the students are following expositive lectures.
2. Practical sessions. Attendance and interest shown by the student during practical sessions will be valued.
3.- Team work
- Proposed themes will be announced at the onset of the course
- The work can be done individually or in groups
4.- Exam: Theoretical/practical knowledge will be evaluated. The exam will consist of 50 questions that can be multiple choice test or short answer questions. In the test questions, wrong answer will not rest points but, for the question to be considered correct all the right options should be marked.
A final exam will be done on the date established by the Academic Program of the Veterinary Faculty.
After publishing provisional notes, students can review their exam to solve doubts or to suggest or claim what he/she considers appropriate. Date and place for exam review will be published together with provisional notes.

Final score of the subject:
- Follow up tests of expositive lectures: 10%
- Practical sessions: 20%
- Team work: 10%
- Written exam: 60%
For passing the subject, the student will have to achieve a minimum of 5 points in the written exam. A lower scoring in the exam will not be acceptable to be averaged with notes of practical sessions or assays.
In cases of fraudulent performance of exercises or tests, will be applied the guidelines for evaluating academic performance of students and scores review.


Recommendations for the remedial exam:
It is important to consider several aspects in case the student does not pass the subject in a particular call:
- Scorings of practical sessions will be saved for future opportunities of exam, as long as the same practices are performed in future courses.
- In extraordinary exam opportunities, the exam will be of similar format as the ordinary exam.
- The final score for extraordinary exam opportunities will be obtained by the same procedure as for the ordinary exam.

Attendance at scheduled activities will be compulsory, but the scores obtained in the previous course in the practical classes and team work sections will be kept.

Classroom work:
-Expositive teaching: 31 h
-clinical practices: 9 h
-small group tutorials: 3 h
-total physical working: 45 h

Personal work:
-individual study: 43.5 h
-preparation of papers: 15.5 h
-assistance to meetings /other recommended activities: 2 h
-oral presentations: 4 h
-exams: 2.5 h
-total personal working: 67.5 h

Total working of the student: 112.5 h

Active assistance to lectures and practical sessions and future reading of recommended texts is strongly advised. Lecture presentations, videos, papers, web sites, etc. will be available in the virtual course. All the contents proposed should be carefully reviewed.
In cases of fraudulent performance of exercises or tests, will be applied the guidelines for evaluating academic performance of students and scores review.