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| L to R: A. Ho, Dr J. K. O'Brien, Dr. T. R. Robeck, Dr. G. A. Montano, K. J. Steinman, and J. L. Posy |
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| Vice President of Theriogenology: |
Todd Robeck, DVM, PhD |
| Scientific Director: |
Justine O'Brien, BScAgr, PhD |
| Laboratory Manager/Research Associate: |
Karen Steinman, BS |
| Research Associate: |
Gisele Montano, MVZ, MS |
| Research Technician: |
Jacqueline Posy, BS, MS |
| Research Technician: |
Angela Ho, BS |
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Dr Todd R. Robeck
B.S., D.V.M., Ph.D, (Texas A & M) |
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| Vice President of Theriogenology, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment |
| Dr. Robeck started his career with marine mammals as a marine animal trainer at Sea-Arama Marineworld in Galveston, while working toward a BS degree which he obtained in 1985 (Texas A&M University). In 1985, began pursuing his Ph.D. in Reproductive Physiology at Texas A&M University. In 1987, while in graduate school he began working with SeaWorld on reproductive research in the killer whale. While continuing his research with killer whales, he began veterinary school in 1988. After finishing his preliminary exams for his Ph.D. in 1993 (Ph.D thesis entitled: Defining Basic Reproductive Physiology, Including Reproductive Anatomy, Reproductive Endocrinology and Estrus Induction of Captive Delphinids) he began working for Sea World San Antonio as a veterinarian and Busch Entertainment Corporation (BEC) as a reproductive physiologist. He graduated with his Ph.D. in 1996 and in 2000 began working full time with BEC in his current position. In 2006, Dr Robeck co-supervised the completion of the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Reproductive Research Center (SWBGRRC) in San Diego California. He has been the principle or co-principal investigator in developing the first successful methodology for artificial insemination in the killer whale, bottlenose dolphin, Pacific white-sided dolphin and the beluga, as well as the birth of the first pre-sexed zoological species, an Atlantic bottlenose dolphin. Dr Robeck is responsible for the development and application of assisted reproductive technology (ART) to the animal collection at SeaWorld and Busch Gardens, and coordinates ART programs among numerous aquaria worldwide. Dr. Robeck is a member of the International Association of Aquatic Animal Medicine, the European Association for Aquatic Mammals, and the International Embryo Transfer Society. |
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| Peer-Reviewed Papers: |
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Robeck, T. R., Gili, C., Doescher, B. M., Sweeney, J., De Laender, P., Van Elk, C. E. and O'Brien, J. K. (2012). Altrenogest and progesterone therapy during pregnancy in bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) with progesterone insufficiency. J Zoo Wild Med (In Press). |
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Montano, G. A., Kraemer, D. C., Love, C. C., Robeck, T. R. and O'Brien. J. K. (2012). Evaluation of motility, membrane status and DNA integrity of frozen-thawed bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) spermatozoa after sex-sorting and recryopreservation. Reproduction143:799-813. |
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O'Brien, J. K. and Robeck, T. R. (2012). The relationship of maternal characteristics and circulating progesterone concentrations with reproductive outcome after natural breeding and artificial insemination, with and without ovulation induction, in the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). Theriogenology (In Press). |
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Steinman, K. J., O'Brien, J. K., Monfort, S. L. and Robeck, T. R. (2012). Characterization of the estrous cycle in female beluga (Delphinapterus leucas) using urinary endocrine monitoring and transabdominal ultrasound: Evidence of facultative induced ovulation. Gen Comp Endo. 175:389-397. |
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Robeck, T. R., Gearhart, S.A., Steinman, K. J., Katsumata, E., Loureiro J. D. and O'Brien, J. K. (2011). In vitro sperm characterization and the development of a semen cryopreservation method using directional solidification in the killer whale (Orcinus orca). Theriogenology 76:267-279. |
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Robeck, T. R., Steinman, K. J., Montano, G. A., Katsumata, E., Osborn, S., Dalton, L., Dunn, J. L., Schmitt, T., Reidarson, T. and O'Brien, J. K. (2010). Deep intra-uterine artificial inseminations using cryopreserved spermatozoa in beluga (Delphinapterus leucas). Theriogenology 74:989-1001. |
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Roth T. L., Stoops, M. A., Robeck, T. R., Ball, R. L., Wolfe, B. A., Finnegan, M. V. and O'Brien, J. K. (2010). Alkaline Phosphatase as an indicator of true ejaculation in the rhinoceros. Theriogenology 74:1701-1706. |
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O'Brien, J. K. and Robeck, T. R. (2010). The value of ex situ cetacean populations in understanding assisted reproductive technology for ex situ and in situ species management and conservation efforts. Int. J. Comp. Psychol. 23:227-48. |
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O'Brien J. K. and Robeck, T. R. (2010). Preservation of beluga (Delphinapterus leucas) spermatozoa using a trehalose-based cryodiluent and directional freezing technology. Reprod. Fertil. Dev. 22:653-63. |
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Robeck, T. R., Steinman, K. J., Ramirez, K., Greenwell, M., Van Bonn, W., Yoshioka, M., Katsumata, E., Dalton, L., Osborn, S. and O'Brien J. K. (2009). Seasonality, estrous cycle characterization, estrus synchronization, semen cryopreservation and artificial insemination in the Pacific white-sided dolphin (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens). Reproduction 138:391-405. |
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O'Brien, J. K., Steinman, K. J., and Robeck, T. R. (2009). Application of sperm sorting and associated reproductive technology for wildlife management and conservation. Theriogenology 71:98-107. |
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O'Brien, J. K., Steinman, K. J., Schmitt, T. and Robeck, T. R. (2008). Semen collection, characterisation and artificial insemination in the beluga (Delphinapterus leucas) using liquid-stored spermatozoa. Reproduction Fertility and Development 20:770-783. |
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Robeck T. R., O'Brien, J. K. and Odell D. K. (2008). Captive Breeding. In: Encyclopedia of Marine Mammals. Perrin, W. F., Wursig, B., Thewissen, J. G. M. (eds). Academic Press, San Diego. Pp. 178-183. |
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Robeck T. R., Monfort, S. L. (2006). Characterization of male killer whale (Orcinus orca) sexual maturation and reproductive seasonality. Theriogenology 66:242-250. |
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O'Brien, J. K., and Robeck, T. R. (2006). Development of sperm sexing and associated assisted reproductive technology for sex pre-selection of captive bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). Reproduction Fertility and Development 18:319-329. |
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Robeck, T. R. and O'Brien, J. K. (2005). Development and Application of Assisted Reproductive Technologies in Cetaceans. World Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Marine Conservation Issues. Nr 7. Pg 8-10. Ed P. Dollinger. WAZA Liebefeld-Bern, Switzerland. |
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Robeck, T. R., Steinman, K. J., Yoshioka, M., Jensen, E., O'Brien, J. K., Katsumata, E., Gili, C., McBain, J. F., Sweeney, J. and Monfort, S. L. (2005). Estrous cycle characterisation and artificial insemination using frozen-thawed spermatozoa in the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). Reproduction 129:659-674. |
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Robeck, T. R., Monfort, S. L., Calle, P. P., Dunn, J. L., Jensen, E., Boehm, J. R., Young, S. and Clark, S. T. (2005). Reproduction, growth and development in captive beluga (Delphinapterus leucus). Zoo Biology 24:29-49. |
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Robeck, T. R., Steinman, K. J., Gearhart, S., Reidarson, T. R., McBain, J. F. and Monfort, S. L. (2004). Reproductive physiology and development of artificial insemination technology in killer whales (Orcinus orca). Biology of Reproduction 71:650-660. |
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Robeck, T. R. and O'Brien, J. K. (2004). Effect of cryopreservation methods and pre-cryopreservation storage on bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) spermatozoa. Biology of Reproduction 70:1340-1348. |
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Robeck, T. R. and Dalton, L. M. (2002). Zygomycotic infections in bottlenose dolphins, (Tursiops truncatus), A killer whale (Orcinus orca), and pacific white-sided dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens) caused by Saksenaea vasiformis and Apophysomyces elegans. Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine 33:356-366. |
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Miller, D.L., Styer, E.L., Decker, S. J. and Robeck T. R. (2002). Ultrastructure of the spermatozoa from three odontocetes, a killer whale (Orcinus orca), a Pacific white-sided dolphin (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens) and a beluga (Delphinapterus leucas). Anatomia Histologia Embryologia 31:1-11. |
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Odell, D. K. and Robeck, T. R. (2002). Captive Breeding. In: Encyclopedia of Marine Mammals. Perrin, W. F., Wursig, B., Thewissen, J. G. M. (eds). Academic Press, San Diego. Pp. 188-192. |
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Robeck, T. R., Atkinson, S. and Brook, F. (2001). Chap 11: Reproduction. In: CRC Handbook in Marine Mammal Medicine, Second edition. Dierauf, L., Gulland,F. (eds). CRC Press, Boca Raton, Fl Pp. 193-236. |
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Dunn, J. L., Buck, J. D. and Robeck, T. R. (2001). Chap 16: Bacterial Disease of Cetaceans and Pinnipeds. In: CRC Handbook in Marine Mammal Medicine, Second edition. Dierauf, L., Gulland,F. (eds). CRC Press, Boca Raton, Fl Pp. 309-335. |
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Duffield, D. and Robeck, T. R. (2000). Report from the Bottlenose dolphin reproduction workshop. San Diego, California. June 3-6, 1999. AZA Marine Mammal Taxon Advisory Group, Silver Springs, MD. |
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Robeck, T. R. (2000). Advances in Bottlenose Dolphin Reproduction 1977-1999. The Bottlenose Dolphin Breeding Workshop, San Diego, California. June 3-6th, 1999 AZA Marine Mammal Taxon Advisory Group, Silver Springs, MD. Pp 109-131. |
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Joseph, B., Duffield, D. and Robeck, T. R. (2000). Summary Data on Reproduction of Bottlenose Dolphins in Oceanaria. AZA Marine Mammal Taxon Advisory Group, Silver Springs, MD. Pp. 43-56. |
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Rostal, D. C., Robeck, T. R., Grumbles, J. S., Burchfield, P. M. and Owens, D.W. (1998). Seasonal reproductive cycle of the Galapagos tortoise (Geochelone nigra) in captivity. Zoo Biology 17:505-517. |
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Robeck, T. R., McBain, J. F., Mathey, S. and Kraemer, D. C. (1998). Sonographic evaluation of the effects of exogenous gonadotropins on follicular recruitment and ovulation induction in the Atlantic bottlenose dolphin, Tursiops truncatus. Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine 29:6-13. |
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Robeck, T. R., Fitzgerald, L. J., Turczynski, C. J. and Kraemer, D. C. (1997). Analysis of urinary progesterone metabolites in the dik-dik antelope (Madoqua quentheri). Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine 28:434-442. |
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Robeck, T. R., Curry, B. E, McBain, J. F. and Kraemer, D. C. (1994). Reproductive biology of the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) and the potential application of advanced reproductive technologies. Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine 25:321-336. |
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Robeck, T. R., Schneyer, A. L., McBain, J. F., Dalton, L. M., Walsh, M. T., Czekala, N. M. and Kraemer, D.C. (1993). Analysis of urinary immunoreactive steroid metabolites and gonadotropins for characterization of the estrous cycle, breeding period, and seasonal estrous activity of captive killer whales (Orcinus orca). Zoo Biology 12:173-188. |
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Robeck, T. R., Rostal, D. C., Burchfield, P. M., Owens, D. W. and Kraemer, D. C. (1990). Ultrasound imaging of reproductive organs and eggs in Galapagos tortoise, Geochelone elephantopus. Zoo Biology 9:349-359. |
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Rostal, D. C., Robeck, T. R., Owens, D. W. and Kraemer, D. C. (1990). Ultrasound imaging of ovaries and eggs in Kemp's Ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys Kempi). Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine 21:27-35. |
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Dr Justine K. O’Brien
B.Sc.Agr.(Hons), Ph.D. (Sydney) |
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| Scientific Director, SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Reproductive Research Center, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment |
| Dr O'Brien completed a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture at the University of Sydney (USyd) in 1993 and was awarded a PhD from the Faculty of Veterinary Science in 1998 for her thesis on the production of offspring from pre-pubertal livestock using in vitro fertilization techniques and sperm sexing technology. During 1997-1998 she completed a Postdoctoral Fellowship at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden's Center for Research of Endangered Wildlife where she gained specialist knowledge in coordinating and conducting conservation-based research programs in a zoo setting. She undertook a second Postdoctoral Fellowship at the USyd during 1999-2003 in collaboration with Taronga Zoo, developing sperm sexing technology for endangered primates. In 2003, Dr O’Brien commenced collaborative research with SeaWorld and Busch Gardens, and in 2006, co-supervised establishment of the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Reproductive Research Center (SWBGRRC) in San Diego, California, with Dr Todd Robeck. Since 2006, Dr O’Brien has worked as the Scientific Director of the SWBGRRC, focusing on assisted reproductive technology development and application, for managing and conserving marine and terrestrial wildlife. Such research lead to the birth of the first pre-sexed zoologically managed species, an Atlantic bottlenose dolphin. Dr O’Brien holds an Honorary Research Associate position with the USyd’s Faculty of Veterinary Science, is an Adjunct Member of the Graduate Faculty, Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, and supervises PhD and Masters’ candidates. She is also co-chairperson of the Regulatory Subcommittee of the International Embryo Transfer Society’s Parent Committee on Companion Animals, Non-Domestic and Endangered Species (CANDES), and Reproduction Co-advisor for the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Rhino Research Advisory Group. Dr. O’Brien is a member of the AZA, International Embryo Transfer Society, International Association of Aquatic Animal Medicine, and the European Association for Aquatic Animals. |
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| Peer-Reviewed Papers: |
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Robeck, T. R., Gili, C., Doescher, B. M., Sweeney, J., De Laender, P., Van Elk, C. E. and O'Brien, J. K. (2012). Altrenogest and progesterone therapy during pregnancy in bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) with progesterone insufficiency. J Zoo Wild Med (In Press). |
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Montano, G. A., Kraemer, D. C., Love, C. C., Robeck, T. R. and O'Brien. J. K. (2012). Evaluation of motility, membrane status and DNA integrity of frozen-thawed bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) spermatozoa after sex-sorting and recryopreservation. Reproduction 143:799-813. |
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O'Brien, J. K. and Robeck, T. R. (2012). The relationship of maternal characteristics and circulating progesterone concentrations with reproductive outcome after natural breeding and artificial insemination, with and without ovulation induction, in the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). Theriogenology (In Press). |
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Steinman, K. J., O'Brien, J. K., Monfort, S. L. and Robeck, T. R. (2012). Characterization of the estrous cycle in female beluga (Delphinapterus leucas) using urinary endocrine monitoring and transabdominal ultrasound: Evidence of facultative induced ovulation. Gen Comp Endo. 175:389-397. |
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Stoops M. A., O'Brien J. K. and Roth, T. L. (2011). Gamete rescue in the African black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis). Theriogenology. 76:1258-1265. |
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Keeley, T., McGreevy, P. D. and O'Brien, J. K. (2011). Characterization and short-term storage of Tasmanian devil sperm collected post-mortem. Theriogenology. 76:705-714. |
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Robeck, T. R., Gearhart, S.A., Steinman, K. J., Katsumata, E., Loureiro J. D. and O'Brien, J. K. (2011). In vitro sperm characterization and the development of a semen cryopreservation method using directional solidification in the killer whale (Orcinus orca). Theriogenology 76:267-279. |
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Robeck, T. R., Steinman, K. J., Montano, G. A., Katsumata, E., Osborn, S., Dalton, L., Dunn, J. L., Schmitt, T., Reidarson, T. and O'Brien, J. K. (2010). Deep intra-uterine artificial inseminations using cryopreserved spermatozoa in beluga (Delphinapterus leucas). Theriogenology 74:989-1001. |
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Roth T. L., Stoops, M. A., Robeck, T. R., Ball, R. L., Wolfe, B. A., Finnegan, M. V. and O'Brien, J. K. (2010). Alkaline Phosphatase as an indicator of true ejaculation in the rhinoceros. Theriogenology 74:1701-1706. |
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O'Brien, J. K. and Robeck, T. R. (2010). The value of ex situ cetacean populations in understanding assisted reproductive technology for ex situ and in situ species management and conservation efforts. Int. J. Comp. Psychol. 23:227-48. |
| • |
O'Brien J. K. and Robeck, T. R. (2010). Preservation of beluga (Delphinapterus leucas) spermatozoa using a trehalose-based cryodiluent and directional freezing technology. Reprod. Fertil. Dev. 22:653-63. |
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Robeck, T. R., Steinman, K. J., Ramirez, K., Greenwell, M., Van Bonn, W., Yoshioka, M., Katsumata, E., Dalton, L., Osborn, S. and O'Brien J. K. (2009). Seasonality, estrous cycle characterization, estrus synchronization, semen cryopreservation and artificial insemination in the Pacific white-sided dolphin (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens). Reproduction 138:391-405. |
| • |
O'Brien, J. K., Steinman, K. J., Robeck, T. R. (2009). Application of sperm sorting and associated reproductive technology for wildlife management and conservation. Theriogenology 71:98-107. |
| • |
O'Brien, J. K., Steinman, K. J., Schmitt, T. and Robeck, T. R. (2008). Semen collection, characterisation and artificial insemination in the beluga (Delphinapterus leucas) using liquid-stored spermatozoa. Reproduction Fertility and Development 20:770-783. |
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O'Brien, J. K., Heffernan, S., Thomson, P. C. and McGreevy, P. D. (2008). Effect of positive reinforcement training on physiological and behavioural stress responses in the hamadryas baboon (Papio hamadryas). Animal Welfare. 17:125-138. |
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Guy, A. J., Schuerch, F. S., Heffernan, S., Thomson, P. C., O'Brien, J. K. and McGreevy, P. D. (2007). The effect of medroxyprogesterone acetate on behavioural responses of captive female hamadryas baboons (Papio hamadryas). Animal Reproduction Science 108:412-24 |
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Holt, W. V., O'Brien, J. K., and Abaigar, T. (2007). Applications and interpretation of computer-assisted sperm analyses and sperm sorting methods in assisted breeding and comparative research. Reproduction Fertility and Development 19:709-718. |
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de Graaf, S. P., Evans, G., Gillan, L., Guerra, M. M. P., Maxwell, W. M. C., and O'Brien, J. K. (2007). The influence of antioxidant, cholesterol and seminal plasma on the in vitro quality of sorted and non-sorted ram spermatozoa. Theriogenology 67:217-227. |
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de Graaf, S. P., Evans, G., Maxwell, W. M. C., Cran, D. G., and O'Brien, J. K. (2007). Birth of offspring of pre-determined sex after artificial insemination of frozen-thawed, sex-sorted and re-frozen-thawed ram spermatozoa. Theriogenology 67:391-398. |
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de Graaf, S. P., Peake, K., Maxwell, W. M. C., O'Brien, J. K. and Evans, G. (2007). Influence of supplementing diet with oleic and linoleic acid on the freezing success and sex-sorting parameters of ram semen. Livestock Science 110:166-173. |
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de Graaf, S. P., Evans, G., Maxwell, W. M. C., Downing, J. A. and, O'Brien, J. K. (2007). Successful low dose insemination of flow cytometrically sorted ram spermatozoa in sheep. Reproduction in Domestic Animals 42:648-653. |
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de Graaf, S. P., Beilby, K. H., O'Brien, J. K., Osborn, D., Downing, J. A., Maxwell, W. M. C., and Evans, G. (2007). Embryo production from superovulated sheep inseminated with sex-sorted ram spermatozoa. Theriogenology 67:550-555. |
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O'Brien, J. K. and Robeck, T. R. (2006). Development of sperm sexing and associated assisted reproductive technology for sex pre-selection of captive bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). Reproduction Fertility and Development 18:319-329. |
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de Graaf, S. P., Evans, G., Maxwell, W. M. C., and O'Brien, J. K. (2006). In vitro function of fresh and frozen-thawed ram spermatozoa after sex-sorting and re-freezing. Reproduction, Fertility and Development 18:867-874. |
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O'Brien, J. K., Stojanov, T., Crichton, E. G., Evans, K. M., Leigh, D., Maxwell, W. M. C., Evans, G. and Loskutoff, N. M. (2005). Flow cytometric sorting of fresh and frozen-thawed spermatozoa in the western lowland gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla). American Journal of Primatology 66:297-315. |
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Peel, A. J., Vogelnest, L., Finnigan, M., Grossfeldt, L. & O'Brien, J. K. (2005). Non-Invasive Fecal Hormone Analysis and Behavioral Observations for Monitoring Stress Responses in Captive Western Lowland Gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla). Zoo Biology 24:431-445. |
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Robeck, T. R., Steinman, K. J., Yoshioka, M., Jensen, E., O'Brien, J. K., Katsumata, E., Gili C., McBain J. F., Sweeney, J. and Monfort, S. L. (2005). Estrous cycle characterisation and artificial insemination using frozen-thawed spermatozoa in the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). Reproduction 129:659-674. |
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O'Brien, J. K., Stojanov, T., Heffernan, S., Hollinshead, F. K., Vogelnest, L., Maxwell, W. M. C. and Evans, G. (2005). Flow cytometric sorting of non-human primate sperm nuclei. Theriogenology 63:246-259. |
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Robeck, T. R. and O'Brien, J. K. (2004). Effect of cryopreservation methods and pre-cryopreservation storage on bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) spermatozoa. Biology of Reproduction 70:1340-1348. |
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Maxwell, W.M.C., Evans, G., Hollinshead, F.K., Bathgate, R., de Graaf, S.P., Eriksson, B.M., Gillan, L., Morton, K.M. and O'Brien, J.K. (2004). Integration of sperm sexing technology into the ART toolbox. Animal Reproduction Science 82-83, 79-95. |
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Hollinshead, F. K., Evans, K. M., Evans, G., Maxwell, W. M. C. and O'Brien, J. K. (2004). Birth of lambs of a pre-determined sex after in vitro production of embryos using frozen-thawed sex-sorted and re-frozen-thawed ram spermatozoa. Reproduction 127:557-568. |
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Hollinshead, F. K., O'Brien, J. K, Evans, G. and Maxwell, W. M. C. (2004). Assessment of in vitro sperm characteristics after flow cytometric sorting of frozen-thawed bull spermatozoa. Theriogenology 62:958-968. |
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Hollinshead, F. K., O'Brien, J. K., Gillan, L., Meyers, M., Evans, G. and Maxwell, W. M. C. (2004). Liquid storage of flow cytometrically sorted ram spermatozoa. Theriogenology 62:587-605. |
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O'Brien, J. K., Hollinshead, F. K., Evans, K. M., Evans, G., Maxwell, W. M. C. (2003). Flow cytometric sorting of frozen-thawed spermatozoa in sheep and non-human primates. Reproduction Fertility and Development 15:367-375. |
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Hollinshead, F. K., Gillan, L. G., O'Brien, J. K., Evans, G. and Maxwell, W. M. C. (2003). In vitro and in vivo assessment of functional capacity of flow cytometrically sorted ram spermatozoa after freezing and thawing. Reproduction Fertility and. Development 15:351-359. |
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O'Brien, J.K., Crichton, E.G., Evans, K.M., Schenk, J.L., Stojanov, T., Evans, G., Maxwell, W.M.C. & Loskutoff, N.M. (2002). Sex ratio modification using sperm sorting and assisted reproductive technology - a population management strategy. 2nd Int. Symp. Assisted Reprod. Tech. (ART) Conservation Genetic Management Wildlife, Omaha, Nebraska, 28-29 September 2002, pp 224-231. |
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Hollinshead, F. K., O'Brien, J. K., Maxwell, W. M. C. and Evans G. (2002). Production of lambs of predetermined sex after the insemination of ewes with low numbers of sex-sorted, frozen-thawed spermatozoa. Reproduction Fertility and Development 14:503-508. |
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Roth, T. L., O'Brien, J. K., McRae, M. A., Romo, S. J., Kroll, J. L., Bellem, A. C. and Brown, J. L. (2001). Ultrasound and endocrine evaluation of the ovarian cycle and early pregnancy in the Sumatran rhinoceros (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis) Reproduction 121:139-149. |
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O'Brien, J. K. and Roth, T. L. (2000). Functional capacity and fertilising longevity of frozen-thawed scimitar-horned oryx (Oryx dammah) spermatozoa in a heterologous in vitro fertilisation system. Reproduction Fertility and Development 12:413-421. |
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O'Brien, J. K. and Roth, T. L. (2000). Post-coital sperm recovery and cryopreservation in the Sumatran rhinoceros (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis) and application to gamete rescue in the black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis). Journal of Reproduction and Fertility. 118:263-271. |
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O'Brien, J. K., Dwarte, D., Ryan, J. P., Maxwell, W. M. C. and Evans, G. (2000). Comparison of in vitro maturation, in vitro fertilisation, metabolism and ultrastructure of oocytes from prepubertal and adult pigs. Reproduction in Domestic Animals. 35:101-107. |
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Obringer, A. R., O'Brien, J. K., Saunders, R. L. and Roth, T. L. (2000). Spermiation in toads after luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone treatment: developing safe, reliable methods for sperm collection in endangered amphibians. Reproduction Fertility and Development 12:51-58. |
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O'Brien, J. K., Oehler, D. A., Malowski S. P. and Roth, T. L. (1999). Semen collection, characterisation and cryopreservation in a Magellanic penguin (Spheniscus magellanicus). Zoo Biology 18:199-214. |
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O'Brien, J. K., Catt, S. L., Ireland, K.A., Maxwell, W. M. C. and Evans, G. (1997). In vitro and in vivo developmental capacity of oocytes from prepubertal and adult sheep. Theriogenology 47:1433-1443. |
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O'Brien, J. K., Beck, N. F. G., Maxwell, W. M. C. and Evans, G. (1997). Effect of hormone pre-treatment of prepubertal sheep on the production and developmental capacity of oocytes in vitro and in vivo. Reproduction Fertility and Development 9:625-631. |
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Catt, S. L., O'Brien, J. K., Maxwell, W. M. C. and Evans, G. (1997). Assessment of ram and boar spermatozoa during cell-sorting by flow cytometry. Reproduction in Domestic Animals 32:251-258. |
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Catt, S. L., O'Brien, J. K., Maxwell, W. M. C. and Evans, G. (1997). Effects of development of in vitro produced (IVP) ovine embryos on sex ratio and in vivo survival after embryo transfer. Theriogenology 48:1369-1378. |
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O'Brien, J. K., Dwarte, D., Ryan, J. P., Maxwell, W. M. C. and Evans, G. (1996). Developmental capacity, energy metabolism and ultrastructure of oocytes from prepubertal and adult sheep. Reproduction Fertility and Development 8:1029-1037. |
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Karen Steinman
B.S. (UCSD) |
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| Research Associate and Lab Manager, SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Reproductive Research Center, SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment |
| Karen Steinman earned her B.S. degree in 1996 at the University of California, San Diego. During 1998 to 2002 she worked at the San Diego Zoo’s Center for Research of Endangered Species, initially as a laboratory assistant, and then as a Senior Research Laboratory Technician & Research Fellow. Karen was employed by SeaWorld as a biological technician based at the Department of Reproductive Sciences, Conservation and Research Center, Smithsonian’s National Zoological Park, during 2002 to 2006. Since 2006, Karen has worked as a research scientist and lab manager of the SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Reproductive Research Center. Through these positions, Karen has attained specialist experience in radioimmunoassay and enzyme immunoassay techniques across a wide range of marine and terrestrial species, and oversees the center's intern training in this discipline. She coordinates the center’s mobile hormone assay monitoring system, which has been instrumental in the successful application of artificial insemination and sperm sorting technology to ex situ bottlenose dolphin management and conservation. Karen is also undertaking a Masters degree in beluga reproductive physiology (George Mason University), and is a member of the International Association of Aquatic Animal Medicine and the International Society of Wildlife Endocrinology. |
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| Peer-Reviewed Papers: |
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Steinman, K. J., O'Brien, J. K., Monfort, S. L. and Robeck, T. R. (2012). Characterization of the estrous cycle in female beluga (Delphinapterus leucas) using urinary endocrine monitoring and transabdominal ultrasound: Evidence of facultative induced ovulation. Gen Comp Endo. 175:389-397. |
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Robeck, T. R., Gearhart, S.A., Steinman, K. J., Katsumata, E., Loureiro J. D. and O'Brien, J. K. (2011). In vitro sperm characterization and the development of a semen cryopreservation method using directional solidification in the killer whale (Orcinus orca). Theriogenology 76:267-279. |
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Robeck, T. R., Steinman, K. J., Montano, G. A., Katsumata, E., Osborn, S., Dalton, L., Dunn, J. L., Schmitt, T., Reidarson, T. and O'Brien, J. K. (2010). Deep intra-uterine artificial inseminations using cryopreserved spermatozoa in beluga (Delphinapterus leucas). Theriogenology 74:989-1001. |
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Robeck, T. R., Steinman, K. J., Ramirez, K., Greenwell, M., Van Bonn, W., Yoshioka, M., Katsumata, E., Dalton, L., Osborn, S. and O'Brien J. K. (2009). Seasonality, estrous cycle characterization, estrus synchronization, semen cryopreservation and artificial insemination in the Pacific white-sided dolphin (Lagenorhynchus obliquidens). Reproduction 138:391-405. |
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O'Brien, J. K., Steinman, K. J., Robeck, T. R. (2009). Application of sperm sorting and associated reproductive technology for wildlife management and conservation. Theriogenology 71:98-107. |
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O'Brien J. K., Steinman, K. J., Schmitt, T. and Robeck, T. R. (2008). Semen collection, characterization, and artificial insemination in the beluga (Delphinapterus leucas) using liquid-stored spermatozoa. Reproduction, Fertility and Development 20:770-783. |
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MacDonald, E. A., Linklater, W. L. Steinman, K. J. and Czekala, N. M. (2007). Rapid colour-change pregnancy test for rhinoceros using faeces. Endangered Species Research 4:277-281. |
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Steinman, K. J., Monfort, S. L., McGeehan, L., Kersey, D., Wang, P., Gual-Sil, F., Snyder, R. and Czekala, N. M. (2006). Endocrinology of the giant panda and application of hormone technology to species management. In: Giant Pandas in Captivity: Biology and Medicine (ed. Wildt, D.E., Zhang, A., Zhang, H., Janssen, D., Ellis, S). Cambridge University Press Pp 198-230. |
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Owen, M. A., Czekala, N. M., Swaisgood, R. R., Steinman, K. J. and Lindburg, D. G. (2005). Seasonal and diurnal dynamics of glucocortioids and behavior in giant pandas. Ursus 16:208-221. |
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Robeck, T. R., Steinman, K. J., Yoshioka, M., Jensen, E., O'Brien, J. K., Katsumata, E., Gili C., McBain J. F., Sweeney, J. and Monfort, S. L. (2005). Estrous cycle characterisation and artificial insemination using frozen-thawed spermatozoa in the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). Reproduction 129:659-674. |
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Robeck, T. R., Steinman, K. J., Gearhart, S., Reidarson, T. R., McBain, J. F. and Monfort, J. F. (2004). Reproductive physiology and development of artificial insemination technology in killer whales (Orcinus orca). Biology of Reproduction 71:650-660. |
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Owen, M. A., Czekala, N. M., Swaisgood, R. R., Steinman, K. J. and Lindburg, D. L. (2004). Seasonal dynamics of behavioral and physiological indicators of stress in giant pandas. Zoo Biology 23:147-164. |
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Czekala, N. M., McGeehan, L., Steinman, K. J., Li, X., and Gual-Sil F. (2003). Endocrine monitoring and its application to the management of the giant panda. Zoo Biology 22:389-400. |
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Czekala, N. M., MacDonald, E. A., Steinman, K. J., Walker, S. L., Garrigues, N. W., Olson, D. and Brown, J. L. (2003). Estrogen and LH dynamics during the follicular phase of the estrous cycle in the Asian elephant. Zoo Biology 22:443-454. |
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Gisele A. Montaño
M.V.Z. (UNAM)
M.S. (Texas A&M)
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| Research Associate, SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Reproductive Research Center, SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment |
| Dr Gisele Montano Pedroso earned her veterinary degree (MVZ, Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia) in 2007 at the University of Mexico (UNAM), Mexico City, Mexico. Whilst studying for her MVZ degree, Dr Montano assisted with dog and dolphin semen research projects (University of Mexico) and completed work experience at various small animal veterinary clinics in Mexico City. In 2010, Dr Montano was awarded an MS degree in Physiology of Reproduction at Texas A & M University. Her Masters research, conducted in collaboration with the SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Reproductive Research Center, lead to an improved understanding of dolphin sperm function after cryopreservation, sex-sorting and re-cryopreservation. Such knowledge will enable optimized use of cryopreserved, sex-sorted, re-cryopreserved samples in national and international bottlenose dolphin artificial insemination programs. Dr Montano is currently a research associate at the SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Reproductive Research Center, focusing on in vitro embryo technologies in cetaceans, and is also a research consultant with Dolphin Adventure (Puerto Vallarta, Mexico). She is a member of the International Association of Aquatic Animal Medicine and the International Embryo Transfer Society. |
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| Peer-Reviewed Papers: |
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Montano, G. A., Kraemer, D. C., Love, C. C., Robeck, T. R. and O'Brien. J. K. (2012). Evaluation of motility, membrane status and DNA integrity of frozen-thawed bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) spermatozoa after sex-sorting and recryopreservation. Reproduction 143:799-813. |
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Robeck, T. R., Steinman, K. J., Montano, G. A., Katsumata, E., Osborn, S., Dalton, L., Dunn, J. L., Schmitt, T., Reidarson, T. and O'Brien, J. K. (2010). Deep intra-uterine artificial inseminations using cryopreserved spermatozoa in beluga (Delphinapterus leucas). Theriogenology 74:989-1001. |
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Jacqueline L. Posy
BS (Hon)
MS (MSU)
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| Research Technician, SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Reproductive Research Center, SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment |
Jacqueline Posy earned her B.S. degree majoring in Biology (2006) and a Masters degree in molecular biology (2008) at Montclair State University, Montclair, New Jersey. Jacqueline held a research associate position at the Center for AIDS Research in the School of Medicine at New York University during 2008-2011. In this position, Jacqueline assisted with HIV/AIDS clinical trials studying cell function with focus on immunology, and used several types of fluorescence activated cell sorters. Since June 2011, Jacqueline has worked as a research technician at the SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Reproductive Research Center where she operates and maintains state-of-the-art sperm sorting equipment, for use across a wide range of wildlife species. Jacqueline also monitors and coordinates laboratory quality control procedures, biological sample inventory and assists with all facets of the center’s research and routine activities. |
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Angela Ho
B.S. (UCSD)
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| Research Technician, SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Reproductive Research Center, SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment |
Angela Ho earned her B.S. degree in Pharmacological Chemistry (2008) at the University of California, San Diego. Angela served as a volunteer to the UCSD Student Health Center and the UCSD Medical Center during 2007-2008. Since 2009, Angela has worked as a research technician at the SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Reproductive Research Center where she conducts enzyme immunoassays, gamete banking and sample inventory processes. Angela also assists with other facets of the center’s research and routine activities including artificial insemination procedures, specialist specimen shipping and intern training. She is a member of the American Chemical Society Student Associates, and the Chinese American Student Association. |
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