Department of Physiology Faculty of Veterinary Medicine University of Khartoum. Proposal for M. Sc. in Applied Physiology (Courses and Dissertation)

Transcription

1 Department of Physiology Faculty of Veterinary Medicine University of Khartoum Proposal for M. Sc. in Applied Physiology (Courses and Dissertation) 1

2 1. Introduction: The Department of Physiology is a well-established discipline in the programme of preclinical studies of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. In addition to teaching professional students, the Department maintains research programme covering a wide range of topics. The Department contributes fairly to biomedical research and has trained many postgraduates. In the past decades, the Department qualified postgraduate students affiliated to the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Khartoum and other Universities (local and foreign) for Master's degree in Veterinary Science and Master of Science by research and doctoral degree (M. V. Sc., M. Sc. and Ph. D.). Recently, with the great demand for the higher education, and the establishment of many applied specialised scientific and medical colleges, it is apparent that there is great need for qualified graduates, especially in the fields of applied and comparative physiology. The specialized graduates can be employed in various fields and recruited in institutes related to veterinary and health sciences, biomedical studies and animal production. The qualified graduates will be involved in the fields of applied research related to the diagnosis, public health, improvement of reproductive efficiency and productivity and food safety. 2. Rationale: a. The importance of applied physiology in many scientific research centres and universities as mission-oriented research in support of animal resources national development plan and food security. b. Lack of qualified graduates in the field of physiology that are capable of conducting applied research in physiology. 2

3 c. Lack of training and a sound knowledge at graduate level to meet the increase in the demand for knowledge related to adaptation of indigenous and foreign animal breeds. d. Help conduct innovative research in physiological sciences. 3. Objectives: a. To qualify graduates in applied physiology and biomedical modelling as well as advanced theoretical, applied and modern technologies in different aspects of physiology. b. To provide effective contribution to intensive postgraduate training programmes in physiology and thus encourages national domestic training in this important applied field. c. To qualify University staff and professionals who can perform and carry out sound basic scientific research and who can serve veterinary, public health and medical faculties and research institutions. d. To provide advanced biomedical knowledge for scientists and researchers through their active contribution to high quality research and other related scholarly activities in the field of applied physiology. 4. Programme Learning Outcomes: a. Gain disciplinary knowledge to understand the nature, practice and application of applied physiology as an enquiry-oriented approach. b. Acquire, develop and integrate a range of advanced theoretical, practical and professional skills in appropriate ways within a professional context and across a range of disciplinary and professional areas. c. Promote and demonstrate the ability to provide advanced scholarly research in applied physiology. 3

4 5. Facilities: a) Academic staff: Academic staff Number Professors 3 Associate Professors 2 Assistant Professors 3 Lecturers 2 Teaching Assistants 2 Teaching Staff outside the Department: The department may seek assistance in teaching from the Staff of other departments at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine or other faculties at the University of Khartoum and other universities b) Technical staff: Technical staff Number Technicians 3 Laboratory Assistants 2 Laboratory Attendants 2 c) Buildings, lecture theatres and laboratories: Buildings Number Lecture theatres 2 Laboratories 3 Animal houses and sheds 4 4

5 d) Libraries: Library University of Khartoum main Library Shambat Campus main Library Postgraduate Virtual Library (Shambat) Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Library Departmental Library Capacity 500 students 200 students 20 students 30 students 20 students 6. Admission Requirements: a. Satisfying the general requirements of registration for postgraduate studies at the University of Khartoum. Applicants for the programme must hold one of the following Bachelor degrees from the University of Khartoum or any other recognised universities: - Veterinary Medicine or Veterinary Sciences. - Animal Production. - Medical Studies (Medicine-Pharmacy-Dentistry). - Medical Laboratory Sciences, Public Health, Science and Education- Biology (Honour level). - Post-graduate Diploma (Physiology) with an average of good at least. b. Applicants holding Honour Bachelor degree (5 years) who are not graduate from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine may be required to sit for a qualifying examination specified by a decision of the Departmental Board. c. Applicants holding a general bachelor degree (4 years) are required to sit for a qualifying year. The qualification required to attend credit courses in 5

6 Physiology and then sit for a qualifying examination and succeed with an average of good at least. d. Applicants will be not allowed to register if they have failed in one of Physiology courses during their undergraduate study. 7. Duration and programme of the studies: a. The student will attend applied physiology courses beside preparation of a dissertation for two academic years following the semester system. Each academic year is divided into 2 semesters (15 weeks each). b. In the first year, the student is required to attend theoretical lectures, practical classes, seminars and discussions. c. In the second year, the student is required to prepare a dissertation in applied physiology under the supervision of a qualified academic staff member that should be approved by the Departmental Board. d. The total hours required for graduation are 34 credit hours, comprising core courses (28 credit hours) and complementary research and preparation of a dissertation (6 credit hours). 8. Study Courses : a) First Semester: Code Course Credit hours Contact hours Phy 601 Cell Physiology and Molecular Biology 3(2+1) 5 Phy 603 Control Mechanisms and Physiological Regulation 3(2+1) 5 Phy 605 Comparative Physiology 2(1+1) 4 Phy 607 Applied Endocrinology 2(1+1) 4 Phy 609 Environmental Physiology 2(1+1) 4 Phy 611 Laboratory Techniques and Laboratory Animals 2(1+1) 4 Total hours 14(8+6) 26 6

7 b) Second Semester: Code Course Credit hours Contact hours Phy 602 Comparative and Applied Nutritional Physiology 3(2+1) 5 Phy 604 Comparative Haematology 2(1+1) 4 Phy 606 Assisted Reproduction Technology 2(1+1) 4 Phy 608 Pathophysiology 3(2+1) 5 Phy 610 Comparative Exercise Physiology 2(1+1) 4 Phy 612 Biostatistics and Research Methodology 2(1+0) 2 Total hours 14(9+6) 24 c) Third and Fourth Semesters (Complementary research): Code Credit hours MAPH 701 Complementary research and preparation of a dissertation 6 Overall total Examination regulations The performance of the students will be evaluated in accordance with regulations of the Graduate College concerning M. Sc. degree by courses and dissertation beside the following regulations: a. Examinations will be held at the end of semesters one and two. b. The examinations will include written, practical and oral examinations for each course in both semesters. c. A student with justified absence or who failed in the examination will be allowed to sit for a substitution or supplementary examination, respectively. d. Supplementary and substitute examinations of semesters one and two will be held after one month of final examinations of semester two. 7

8 e. A student who fails in not more than one third of the courses shall be allowed to sit for supplementary examinations. f. A student who fails in more than one third up to half of the courses is allowed to re-sit all examinations. g. A student who fails in more than half of the courses or in any supplementary exam or any of the courses of the re-sit examinations not allowed to continue the study. 10. Assessment The following grading scale will be used for assessment: A+: A: B+: B: C+: C: D+:55-59 D: Fail: Award of the Degree: The M. Sc. Degree in applied physiology (MSc. Applied Physiology)) is awarded to the successful student by the University Senate on the recommendation of Post-graduate Council. 8

9 12. Courses outlines: Phy 601: Cell Physiology and Molecular Biology - Understand the basic cellular components and their importance to generate and utilize energy in cells. - Distinguish the molecular basis of cellular processes and interrelationships in living systems with an emphasis on eukaryotic systems. - Provide fundamental insights for the student to initiate and develop the process of inquiry-based learning and discovery in science. - Establish the basic skills to allow the student to explore and assess their interests in the fields of molecular and cellular sciences for career opportunities. b. Learning Outcomes: - Provide students with insight into ongoing research in cell and molecular physiology. - Understand how cell molecular machines are constructed, regulated transcript, repair and interpret genomic information. - Provide an opportunity for the student to appreciate that cell molecular physiology is a dynamic and ever-changing experimental science. - Cells and molecular physiology. - Cell organelle and regulation of cell function. - Functions of biological membranes. - Transport across cell membrane and epithelial properties. - Cell communication, signalling molecules and cell receptors. 9

10 - Ligand-receptor interaction. - Second messenger (G-protein, PLC,-InsP3, Adenyl cyclase) system (cascades). - Basic principles of molecular physiology. - Genes regulation and mutation. - Molecular biology in physiological research and adaptation. Phy 603: Control Mechanisms and Physiological Regulation - Familiarise the student with physiological control and regulation mechanisms. - Acquaint the concepts and theories of various physiological control mechanisms and their significant impact on homeostasis. - Identify, examine, and explain the physiological mechanisms of homeostasis at various levels of the body. b. Learning Outcomes - Understand the concepts of the physiological control mechanisms. - Explain the concept of homeostasis. - Explain the integration of physiological mechanisms in relation to adaptation of organisms to the environment. - Homeostasis. - Central nervous system (CNS). - Autonomic nervous system (ANS). - Body fluids and water metabolism regulations - Acid-base status and regulations. 10

11 Phy 605: Comparative Physiology - Appreciate the diversity of animal life and physiological systems that animals have developed through natural selection. - Understanding the functions of systems in different species and breeds of animals. - Use a comparative approach to examine major physiological systems. - Compare how different groups of animals maintain different physiological adaptations to their environment. b. Learning Outcomes - Develop the knowledge of major physiological systems and be able to associate anatomical areas with their specific functions. - Develop an understanding of the role of evolutionary processes in driving organization of physiological systems. - Identify and describe structural differences of major physiological systems that characterize different species and breeds. - Develop critical thinking skills and be able to apply physiological concepts and principles at basic and applied levels that can be utilized in genetics and breeding programmes. - Physiological characteristics of different species. - Cardiovascular system. - Respiratory system - Digestive system - Urinary system. - Respiratory system. - Reproduction and lactation. 11

12 Phy 607: Applied Endocrinology - Understand basic principles of homeostatic regulation of biological systems. - Know the structures and biosynthetic pathways of major families of chemical messengers. - Be familiar with the tools and techniques used in the study of hormones and chemical messengers. - Recognize the diversity of hormone receptor systems and transduction pathways. - Acquire a systems-based working knowledge of important hormonally regulated physiological processes. - Interpret special procedures for visualization, scans, ultrasonography for tumour and organ visualization. b. Learning Outcomes: - Master basic quantitative skills important for analysing, understanding and presenting endocrinological data. - Appreciate current scholarly and popular issues in endocrinology. - Be able to find and access primary literature resources of molecular endocrinology. - Current knowledge in reporting on a topic of endocrinological interest. - Hormones synthesis, secretion and metabolism - Hormones and receptors (structure and functions) - Integration of pituitary and hypothalamus functions. - Hormonal assay and endocrine functions assessment. - Modern concepts of molecular endocrinology. 12

13 - Hormonal control of Reproduction and lactation. Behaviour and health Animal growth, body components and products. Animal products Phy 609: Environmental Physiology - Understand principles of thermal physiology with emphasis on heat stress. - Develop understanding of the effects of thermal environment on physiological responses, health and performance. - Develop the ability to relate principle of thermal physiology to animal housing and management in the tropics. - Develop knowledge on strategies adopted for alleviation of stress under climatic extremes. b. Learning Outcomes: - Learning mechanisms by which mammals adapt to their environment. - Developing knowledge on how to manage animals under various environmental conditions. - Demonstration of skills of research and evidence-based solution to environmental problems. - Classification of climate - Specification of thermal environment. - Environment and animal well-being. - Physiological responses to the environment. 13

14 - Heat exchange between body and environment. - Thermoregulation. - Heat stress and tolerance. - Principle of adaptation to climate change. - Genotype by environment interactions. - Effect of environment and its modification on performance and health. - Strategies to reduce the impact of environmental stress. Phy 611: Laboratory Techniques and Laboratory Animals - Understand the general concepts of laboratory bio-safety, collection and preservation of samples. - Develop advanced knowledge in physiological properties, husbandry and management of experimental laboratory animals. - Define the methods and laboratory equipments with emphasis on their application to physiological research. b. Learning Outcomes: - Acquire skills and advance knowledge of laboratory bio-safety. - Explore the modern laboratory techniques used in physiological research. - Define the ethics of laboratory animals uses for biomedical research. - Laboratory bio-safety - Collection and preservation of samples. - Preparation of physiological solutions. - Methods of colorimetry and spectrophotometry. - Equipments of haematological measurements. 14

15 - Equipments for Cardiovascular measurements. - Apparatus and equipment of semen evaluation. - Radioactive isotopes - Radioimmunoassay (RIA) techniques. - Blood ph and gas analysis. - Physiological surgical procedures. - Physiological properties of experimental laboratory animals. - Husbandry and managements of laboratory animals. - Laboratory animals in biomedical research. Phy 602: Comparative and Applied Nutritional Physiology - Acquire knowledge on the nutritional requirements for different classes of animals in relation to physiological states and environments. - Study the mechanisms of digestion and metabolism in different animals - Know the interaction between the digestive system and the other body systems. b. Learning Outcomes: - How different animals cope with different types of feed. - How the production and reproduction could be improved by feeding - The interaction between animal feeding and environment. - Physiological bases of comparative nutrition - Modern concepts of regulation of food intake - Control and integration of gastrointestinal function - Essentials of applied nutritional physiology 15

16 - Effects of feed additives on physiological performance Phy 604: Comparative Haematology - Explain the morphology and functions of normal blood cells in different animals. - Develop knowledge on disorders of blood including anaemia, leucocytes and coagulation. b. Learning Outcomes: - Describe blood cell differentiation and metabolism - Know how to correct different types of anaemia. - Integrate the functions of blood with the functions of different body systems. - Blood constituents (cellular elements, plasma, serum). - Physiological states and blood constituents - Blood groups and blood transfusion. - Physiological bases of immunity - Anaemia types and correction. - Leukocytes disorders. - Bleeding and haemostasis. Phy 606: Assisted Reproduction Technology - Acquire a basic understanding of assisted reproductive techniques. - Understanding all aspects of In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF). - Impart hands-on training technique for intracytoplasmic sperm injection. - Acquire skills in various assisted reproductive procedures. 16

17 b. Learning Outcomes: - Encourage independent thought and a research oriented approach to the practice of assisted reproductive techniques. - Provide theoretical and practical training in assisted reproductive techniques. - Broaden the students knowledge of the underlying scientific basis of ART and clinical management of infertility - Demonstrate the ability to pursue a career in assisted reproductive techniques (e.g. clinical embryology, infertility treatment) and/or develop research in reproductive biology. - Spermatogenesis and semen evaluation - Sperm sorting techniques - Oogenesis and ovulation control. - Artificial insemination. - In vitro fertilization. - Embryos transfer Phy 608: Pathophysiology - Develop advanced knowledge in pathophysiology concept. - Promote understanding of systemic and cellular pathophysiology - Identify and explain the pathophysiological pathways of major diseases. b. Learning Outcomes: - Understand the basic terminology related to pathophysiology. - Explore the most common disorders and diseases related to each of the major body systems. 17

18 - Analyse responses related to complex pathophysiological processes Course contents - Concepts and principles of pathophysiology - Pathophysiology of: Respiratory system Cardiovascular system Urinary system Endocrine glands and metabolism Digestive system Nervous system Phy 610: Comparative Exercise Physiology - Understanding of physiological bases and biomechanics of physical activity. - Explanation of physiological responses of body systems to physical activity. - Analysis and identification of requirements of sport and physical activities. b. Learning Outcomes: - Describe how the body responds to acute and chronic exercise. - Develop understanding of physical activity and health. - Demonstrate the ability to study specific areas of exercise physiology through laboratory research projects. - Suggest exercise programmes for special cases with chronic diseases. - Essentials of comparative exercise physiology - Exercise and functions of body systems. 18

19 - Energetics of locomotion. - Assessment of Muscular effort tolerance. - Nutrition and exercise performance. - Exercise physiology in special cases. Phy 612: Biostatistics and Research Methodology - Understand the concepts of biostatistics and research methodology with emphasis on their common application to physiological research. - Acquire skills in sampling and application of statistical tools and guide them to perform research based on scientific methods. b. Learning Outcomes: - Understand qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. - Acquire research techniques and develop scientific and rational thinking. - Evaluate scientific methodology and research design - Learn data analysis and interpretation - Demonstrate skills in extracting and interpreting information from the scientific literature and strengthen research abilities. - Principles of biostatistics - Concepts of applied biostatistics in physiological research - Concept of mortality, incidence and prevalence - Biological variability - Screening - Sampling distribution - Confidence intervals - Statistical significance test 19

20 - Testing hypothesis - Correlation, simple and multiple linear regression, logistic regression - Principles of experimental design - Analysis of variance - Randomised clinical trials - Concepts of research and methodologies - Problem statement, research questions and hypotheses - Study design - Data sources and classification - Sampling and survey design - Scientific writing 20