BIO 283
TENTATIVE LECTURE OUTLINE
The following is a general outline and approximate sequence of topics to be covered in lecture. Some topics will require more than one lecture period; others less than one. At this point neither you nor I know which will be which.
| Topic No. |
Topics |
| 1 |
Introduction; Reproduction in Myth and Legend |
| 2 |
Sexual Differentiation and Development |
| 3 |
Male Gross Anatomy Plus Spermatogenesis; Testicular Descent; Testicular Thermoregulation; Erection; Ejaculation. |
| 4 |
Male Reproductive Endocrinology. |
| 5 |
Blood Testis Barrier; Spermatogenic Waves and Cycles. |
| 6 |
Semen Physiology; Sperm Anatomy. |
| 7 |
Overview of Female Reproductive Anatomy; Folliculogenesis. |
| 8 |
Oogenesis; Atresia, Endocrine Control of Ovarian Function. |
| 9 |
Female: Ovulation; Corpus Luteum Formation. |
| 10 |
Prostaglandins and Role in Reproduction; luteolysis. |
| 11 |
Puberty. |
| 12 |
The Estrous Cycle; The Menstrual Cycle. |
| 13 |
Hypothalamus and pituitary; Neuroendocrine Control of Reproduction. |
| 14 |
Steroidogenesis; Mechanism of Action of Hormones. |
| 15 |
Sperm and Ova Transport; Sperm Capacitation and Acrosome Reaction; Fertilization. |
| 16 |
Early Embryonic Development and Maternal Recognition of Pregnancy |
| 17 |
Gestation; Prenatal Development and Placentation. |
| 18 |
Human Contraception and Human reproductive Technologies. |
General Comments:The objectives of the course are to: (1) understand the basic biological aspects of animal reproductive physiology and endocrinology; (2) understand the comparative differences and similarities among several animal species; and (3) understand selected technologies associated with reproductive control.
In an informal way, I would say that the overall objective of this course is to enjoy a mutually rewarding learning experience. It is hoped that we will both have fun and learn about reproductive physiology. The subject here, after all, concerns every single one in this class. It is one of the most interesting, most fun, and least boring topics in life! So relax, learn, and enjoy!
Class Rules:The first rule is
TURN OFF YOUR MOBILE PHONES before getting into the classroom. Second, I expect students to attend classes and be
PUNCTUAL (Punctuality is a measure of civility). I will begin class at the assigned hour sharp! I expect students to be in their seats ready to work. PLEASE do not be rustling books and paper before the 50 minutes assigned for the lecture. Arriving late and leaving early is disruptive to the class and interrupts my train of thought. I expect students to be respectful. Tuition affords one the opportunity for an education, not the right to be disruptive. Class attendance is required. Students who miss classes excessively are subject to be dropped from the course without previous notice (AUB Catalogue).
Exam Rules and Regulations:You are required to take all the exams at the scheduled times. A student who misses an exam will receive a '0' (ZERO) for that exam. An alternative arrangement could be made
only if: (1) you are severely ill and have an explanation from a
physician at AUB (dentist's appointment is not an excuse), or (2) an immediate family member passes away. The nature of such an arrangement is at the discretion of the instructor. A written explanation/excuse must be provided within one week of the scheduled exam to allow for such an arrangement.
Mobile phones should be turned off during the exam.
I will not tolerate any kind of dishonesty during exams (honesty in your academic work will develop into professional integrity). Cheating and plagiarism are violations of the university's academic regulations and is subject to disciplinary action. For more information on the Student Code of Conduct refer to the following AUB website (
http://pnp.aub.edu.lb/general/conductcode/).
Testing and Grading Information:The final grade will be based upon the percentage of the total possible points earned. The sources of points are two exams (100 point each), a final examination (130 points), and evaluation (20 points). The evaluation points are in the gift of the tutor based upon attendance, participation, and conduct. These points are not up for discussion.