MASTERS OF SCIENCE IN PHYSIOLOGY

 

1. 1. Course Structure And Duration
      1. The Master of Science degree programprogramme in Medical Physiology shall cover a minimum of two academic years (four semesters) of full-time study after registration. Registration for more than two years (four semesters) may be granted by the Senate as provided in the University’s Common regulations for Master’s degrees.
      2. An academic year shall consist of two semesters, each of 15-week duration, and each course unit shall be 60 student-staff contact hours.
      3. The first academic year (first and second semesters) shall be devoted entirely to course work consisting of lectures, seminars, tutorials, e-learning, and laboratory exercises.  Laboratory work in physiology shall include attachments to research projects in the Department of Medical in rotations of at least two months.
      4. All courses for the degree of Masters in Science in Medical Physiology will be compulsory except in the case of credit transfers as governed by Section 5 of the regulations of the School of Medicine.
      5. A candidate may be exempted from a up to one third of the courses on application if they have taken the same course or equivalent from the University of Nairobi.
      6. The candidate shall be required to undertake supervised teaching (lectures, tutorials or laboratory demonstrations) averaging one hour per week throughout the programprogrammememe.
      7. The candidate will be required to attend Departmental seminars and to make scheduled periodic seminar presentations.
      8.  A candidate shall prepare and submit to the Department a Research Proposal for the Masters’ Thesis, approved by the Supervisor, before the end of the first academic year.
      9. The second academic year shall be devoted to research and preparation of the Master’s thesis. 
      10. The candidate shall provide a written progress report to the Dean, School of Medicine, every three (3) months through the supervisor and chairman with a copy to the Board of Postgraduate Studies.
      11. A candidate exceeding the prescribed maximum duration of the course (three academic years) without valid reason shall be discontinued.
      12.  Students will be required to take a minimum of five (5) units comprised of the three (3)  compulsory units and at least two (2) optional units as indicated in table 2.

 

Table 2 Duration and structure of the courses

Year I

MSc

Code

Subject

Hrs

Units

Credit hours

1st Semester

HMP701(I)*

 Experimental, Analytic and Quantitative Physiology

60

1

45

HMP702*

Research and Statistical Methods

60

1

45

HMP703

 Cell Physiology and  Neuroscience

60

1

45

HMP704

Brain and behavior  

60

1

45

HMP705

Physiology and Pathophysiology of Pain

60

1

45

HMP706

Cardio respiratory  Adjustments in Exercise Training

60

1

45

 

TOTALS

360

6

 

 

2nd Semester

HMP701(II)*

Experimental, Analytic and Quantitative Physiology

60

     1

45

HMP707

Gastrointestinal Microbiota

60

1

45

HMP708

Physiology of the transplanted kidney

60

1

45

HMP 709

Physiology of Aging

60

1

45

HMP 710

Maternal Fetal and Neonatal Physiologies

60

1

45

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

YEAR II

 

HMP 800*

Thesis Research   & dissertation       

660

11

11

* Compulsory units

 

1. 2. Course Matrix

Table 3 Learning Outcome Course Matrix

 

Learning outcome

HMP 701(I)

HMP702

HMP703

HMP704

HMP705

HMP 706

HMP 707

HMP 708

HMP 709

HMP 710

HMP 407

Learning outcome 1

Make physiological solutions and use laboratory equipment to measure physiological variables

 

State the scientific method, describe a research question / hypothesis and formulate a research question and search the literature and correctly acknowledge sources

Describe membrane receptors, molecular motors and explain their functions and disorders.

 

Describe research methods in behavior, the role of emotions in memory, learning and behaviour, neurochemical basis of behavior and the control of behavioral functions

 

Discuss development of pain theories, explain historical development of pain theories and basis for current understanding of pain, define pain and pain terms and classification systems of pain,explain the differences between nociception and  pain and describe pain and behavior

Muscle force development, energy utilization and energy sources mechanism of oxygen debt and its recovery and muscle adaptation in prolonged athletic training

 

 

Life without microbes and primer on terminology, methodologies used to study the microbiota, characteristics of the human gastrointestinal microbiota, microbes, immunity, and metabolic health

 

Effects of perfusion reperfusion, glomerular and tubular functions, renal blood flow and renal hormones

 

Describe changes in structure and functions of the body during disease- free aging.

Physiology of pregnancy, the embryo,  fetal physiology and neonatal physiology

 

Write a thesis of their own research

Learning outcome 2

State specifications of laboratory equipment use and calculate physiological constants from given data

 

Design a study or experiment and use appropriate statistics for planning research and for analyzing and presenting data

Describe the genome, state the aspects of the human

genome which can be used for disease diagnosis and for predicting  disease susceptibility

Explain the transition process from recreational use to compulsive use to and additive state, describe the neurocircuitry influenced by drugs of abuse and explain the effect on cognitive function

 

Describe peripheral pain mechanisms, dorsal horn processing, ascending and descending modulation and central mechanisms and neurotransmitters in pain ,explain the multiple dimensions of pain to include physiological, sensory, affective, cognitive, behavioral, social /cultural /political

Pulmonary oxygen diffusion, changes in cardiac output and Changes in fluid and electrolytes.

 

 

Urine concentration capability and the physiology of transplant rejection

 

Mechanisms of embryonic origins of the prevalence of adult diseases such as coronary heart disease, stroke, hypertension and diabetes.

 

Learning outcome 3

Interpret underlying mechanisms from the magnitude of a physiological constant unit

Analyze a published paper, state the ethics of animal and human research and develop and write a  Research Proposal

Describe the methods for cloning genes and whole organisms and how genetically modified  organisms for experimental purposes are made

Explains the transcriptional and epigenetic mechanism of addiction, describe the methods of studying drug addiction and state the current treatment models

Describe the Pathophysiology of pain, peripheral and central mechanisms and explain the pathological consequences of unrelieved pain, and implications of being a multidimensional experience (biological, psychological and social)

Heat dissipation and heat-stroke and physiological differences between  good and poor exercise performers

Microbiota composition and disease associations, microbes and drugs, therapeutic manipulation of microbiota and Intestinal virome

 

 

 

 

 

Learning Outcome 4

 

 

Describe the mechanisms of the different types of neural signaling and  possible mechanisms of memory

 

Discuss the factors influencing neurophysiology (e.g. genetics, age, sex, ethnicity) and describe research methods in pain

 

Composition and volume of gastrointestinal gas, gas metabolism and excretion, intestinal propulsion, accommodation, and tolerance to gas, clinical gas problems

 

 

 

 

 

 

2. COURSE DESCRIPTION

 

 

Code and Unit Title

HMP 701(I)

EXPERIMENTAL PHYSIOLOGY and ANALYTIC AND QUANTITATIVE PHYSIOLOGY

 

Learning Hours

60  Hours          1unit

 

Prerequisite

Undergraduate course in physiology

 

Purpose

The goal of this unit is to enable the learner to obtain data on various physiological functions and to enable the student to calculate a wide range of physiological variables

 

Expected Learning Outcomes

At the end of the unit, the learner should be able to:

1. Make physiological solutions and use laboratory equipment to measure physiological variables
2. State specifications of laboratory equipment use and calculate physiological constants from given data
3. Interpret underlying mechanisms from the magnitude of a physiological constant unit

 

Content

Measurements of: Action potentials and graded potentials; Mechanical properties of muscle; Neuromuscular transmission. The reflex arc. Calculations of: Passive and active transport: diffusion, electrical forces, Gibbs-Donnan equilibrium, solvent drag and bulk flow; Cell membrane ionic and potentials gradients and active transport;  resting membrane potential, action potential, cable properties, threshold, and intrinsic properties of membranes.

 Hemodynamics, kinetic energy of flow, pressure-flow relationship, Poiseuille’s formula, Laplace’s Law;  Gas laws, pressure volume, compliance, surface tension;  pH  regulation, buffers;

 

 

Learning and Teaching Methodologies

Lectures, Practicals, and Demonstrations.

 

Instructional Materials and Equipment

Laboratory equipment, Audio visual aids, e-learning, and printed materials

 

Assessment mode

Laboratory Reports, practical examinations

 

Academic Staff  Evaluation

Monitoring/observation by the Head of Department and assessment by lecturers and student evaluation forms.

 

Course Texts

 C. L. Ghai (2012) A Textbook of Practical Physiology 8th Edition. Jaypee Brothers Medical Pub. ISBN-10: 935025932X ISBN-13: 978-9350259320 

Ruch and Patton, 1966. Physiology and Biophysics.

 

Further Reading Materials and Resources

Valerie Gladwell, Kate Reed, and Gavin Sandercock at the University of Essex, in conjunction with The Physiological  Society (2010) Physiology Experiments Physiology Experiments

 

Code and Unit Title

HMP 701(II)

EXPERIMENTAL PHYSIOLOGY and ANALYTIC AND QUANTITATIVE PHYSIOLOGY

 

Learning Hours

60  Hours          1unit

 

Prerequisite

Undergraduate course in physiology

 

Purpose

The goal of this unit is to enable the learner to obtain data on various physiological functions and to enable the student to calculate a wide range of physiological variables

 

Expected Learning Outcomes

At the end of the unit, the learner should be able to:

1. Make physiological solutions and use laboratory equipment to measure physiological variables
2. State specifications of laboratory equipment use and calculate physiological constants from given data
3. Interpret underlying mechanisms from the magnitude of a physiological constant unit

 

Content

Record analyze and calculate as necessary properties of major sensory organs: touch, proprioception , temperature, vision , hearing , gravitational acceleration, angular acceleration etc. Record properties of major organ systems: respiration, circulation, gastrointestinal system, renal system and reproduction. Measure basic metabolism (BMR). Calculate pH from acid base data.  Measure higher function of the CNS.

 

Learning and Teaching Methodologies

Lectures, Practicals, and Demonstrations.

 

Instructional Materials and Equipment

Laboratory equipment, Audio visual aids, e-learning, and printed materials

 

Assessment mode

Laboratory Reports, practical examinations

 

Academic Staff  Evaluation

Monitoring/observation by the Head of Department and assessment by lecturers and student evaluation forms.

 

Course Texts

 C. L. Ghai (2012) A Textbook of Practical Physiology 8th Edition. Jaypee Brothers Medical Pub. ISBN-10: 935025932X ISBN-13: 978-9350259320  

Ruch and Patton, 1966. Physiology and Biophysics.

 

Further Reading Materials and Resources

Valerie Gladwell, Kate Reed, and Gavin Sandercock at the University of Essex, in conjunction with The Physiological  Society (2010) Physiology Experiments Physiology Experiments

 

 

 

 

Code and Unit Title - HMP 702

 RESEARCH AND STATISTICAL METHODS

 

Learning Hours

60  hours 1 unit

 

Prerequisite

Physiology courses

 

Purpose

To enable the student to learn the scientific method and research methodologies.

 

Expected Learning Outcomes

At the end of the unit, the learner should be able to:

1. State the scientific method, describe a research question/hypothesis and formulate a research question and search the literature and correctly acknowledge sources
2. Design a study or experiment and use appropriate statistics for planning research and for analyzing and presenting data
3. Analyze a published paper, state the ethics of animal and human research and develop and write a  Research Proposal

 

Content

 Scientific method; the research problem; literature review. Data; Presentation of data; Variables and measurements; Validity Reliability; Hypothesis formulation; Experimental designs; Selection of statistical test; Descriptive statistics; Inferential statistics: testing hypotheses, parametric tests, and non-parametric tests. Analysis of published papers; Preparation and presentation of research proposal.

 

Learning and Teaching Methodologies

Lectures, practicals, student presentations

 

Instructional Materials and Equipment

Audio visual aids, e-learning and printed materials

 

Assessment mode

Assignments, practical reports, term papers, examination

 

Academic Staff  Evaluation

Monitoring/observation by the Head of Department and assessment by lecturers and student evaluation forms.

 

Course Texts

Olive Mugenda and Abel G. Mugenda, 1999. Research Methods: Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches (1999) African Center for Technology Studies.  ISBN 9966411070, 9789966411075 256 pages

 

Further Reading Materials and Resources

C.R Kothari, 2015.  Research methodology : Methods and Techniques , (2nd Revised Edition)    New Age International Private Ltd. Available on the internet

 

 

Code and Unit Title - HMP703

   CELL PHYSIOLOGY

Learning Hours

60 hours  1 unit

Prerequisite

Undergraduate course in physiology

Purpose

The goal of this unit is to introduce the learner to advanced topics in membrane physiology.

Expected Learning Outcomes

At the end of the unit, the learner should be able to:

1. Describe membrane receptors, molecular motors and explain their functions and disorders.
2. Describe the genome, state the aspects of the human genome which can be used for disease diagnosis and for predicting  disease susceptibility
3. Describe the methods for cloning genes and whole organisms and how genetically modified  organisms for experimental purposes are made
4. Describe the mechanisms of the different types of neural signaling and  possible mechanisms of memory

Content

Membrane receptors: functions, types, structures, polymorphisms;

down regulation; receptor disorders; opiate, cannabinol and similar receptors. Genetic mechanisms: regulation of DNA transcription by proteins, ligands and RNA; epigenetics; sequencing of DNA and RNA; comparison of genomes of selected organisms: the human genome; (non-coding) non-genomic DNA; diagnostic aspects of DNA; us of DNA for identification. Cloning: cloning of genes and of organisms; methods for genetic modification of selected organisms for experimental purposes. Mechanisms of molecular motors

 The Changing Brain - Early Brain Development, Construction of Neural Circuits, Modification of Brain Circuits as a Result of Experience, Plasticity of Mature Synapses and Circuits and Complex Brain Functions - The Association Cortices, Language and Lateralization, Sleep and consciousness

Learning and Teaching Methodologies

Lectures  and videos

Instructional Materials and Equipment

Audio visual aids, printed materials.

Assessment mode

Assignments, practical reports, term papers, examination

Academic Staff  Evaluation

Monitoring/observation by the Head of Department and assessment by lecturers and student evaluation form

Course Texts

1. Alberts, B., et al. Molecular Biology of the Cell, 5th Edition. NY. Garland Science. 1600pp.

Dale Purves, George J Augustine, David Fitzpatrick, Lawrence C Katz, Anthony-Samuel LaMantia, James O McNamara, and S Mark Williams (Editors). Neuroscience, 2nd edition, Online reading

Mayo Clinic Medical Neurosciences (2016). Organized by Neurologic Systems and Levels 5th Edition by Eduardo E. Benarroch (Editor), Jasper R. Daube (Editor), Kelly D. Flemming (Editor), Barbara F. Westmoreland (Editor)

Further Reading Materials and Resources

 

 

 

 

Bertil Hille (2009). G protein-coupled receptor. Scholarpedia, 4(12):8214.

Joe Grove and Mark Marsh (2011).The cell biology of receptor-mediated virus entry. JCB 195: 71071-1082.

Giuseppe Di Lorenzo, et al. (2002) Expression of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Correlates with Disease Relapse and Progression to Androgen-independence in Human Prostate Cancer. Clin. Cancer Res 8: 3438.

Sam L. Stephen et al. (2010). Scavenger Receptors and Their Potential as Therapeutic Targets in the Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease International Journal of Hypertension 2010: 1-60

Mihai G Netea,  Cisca Wijmenga & Luke A J O'Neill (2012) Genetic variation in Toll-like receptors and disease susceptibility. Nature Immunology 13: Pages:

535–542

 

Code and Unit Title

 HMP 704

BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR (+ Neurobiology of Addiction)

 

Learning Hours

60  hours          1unit

 

Prerequisite

Undergraduate course in physiology

 

Purpose

To enable the learner to know the molecular and neurophysiologic  mechanisms of addiction

 

Expected Learning Outcomes

At the end of the unit the learner should be able to describe:

1. Describe research methods in behavior, the role of emotions in memory, learning and behaviour, neurochemical basis of behavior and the control of behavioral functions
2. Explain the transition process from recreational use to compulsive use to and additive state, describe the neurocircuitry influenced by drugs of abuse and explain the effect on cognitive function
3. Explains the transcriptional and epigenetic mechanism of addiction, describe the methods of studying drug addiction and state the current treatment models

 

Content

History of behavioural neuroscience,  development of behaviour,  research methods in behavioral neurophysiology, perception,  object recognition, control of action, learning and memory, role of emotion, hemispheric specialization, attention and consciousness, neuro chemical basis;

Definition of addiction. Additive chemicals and activities. Neural circuitry, amygdala, nucleus accumbens and striatum, role of dopamine and other neurotransmitters, effect on corticostriatal circuitry, changes in cognitive function, transcriptional and epigenetic molecular mechanism, mode of action of different addictive drugs: nicotine, alcohol, heroin, amphetamines, cocaine. Theories of drug addiction. Methods in study of drug addiction. Treatment models

 

Learning and Teaching Methodologies

Lectures, practicals, visit  to a Rehabilitation centre

 

Instructional Materials and Equipment

Audio visual aids, printed materials

 

Assessment mode

Assignments reports, term papers, examination

 

Academic Staff  Evaluation

Monitoring/observation by the Head of Department and assessment by lecturers and student evaluation forms.

 

Course Texts

1. Gazzaniga, M.S., Ivry, R.B. &Mangun, G.R. (2009). Cognitive Neuroscience: The Biology of the Mind
2. Purves et al. (2012) Neuroscience 5th edition.
3. Bear, Mark F; Connor Barry W; Paradiso, Michael A. (2015) Neuroscience: Exploring the brain. 4th edition

 

Further Reading Materials and Resources

1. Robison, AJ and Nestler, EJ. (2011) Transcriptional and epigenetic mechanism of addiction. Nature Reviews Neuroscience 12:623-637.
2. Kalivas, BC and Kalivas, PW (2016) Corticostriatal circuitry in regulating diseases characterized by intrusive thinking. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience 18:447-458.
3. Ashare, RL, Falcone, M and Lerman, C. (2014) Cognitive function during nicotine withdrawal: Implications for nicotine dependence treatement. Neuropharmacology 76: 581-591.
4. Blein, D et al (2015) In search of predictive endophenotypes in addiction: insights from preclinical research. Genes, Brain, and Behavior 15:74-88.
5. Taylor, SB, Lewis, CR and Olive MF (2013) The neurocircuitry of illicit psychostimulant addiction: acute and chronic effects in humans. Substance Abuse and Rehabilitation 4:29-43.

 

 

Code and Unit Title

 HMP 705

PHYSIOLOGY AND PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF PAIN

Learning Hours

45 Hours 1 unit

Prerequisite

Undergraduate course in physiology or neuroscience

Purpose

The goal of this unit is to introduce the learner to the physiology and Pathophysiology of pain

Expected Learning Outcomes

At the end of the unit, the learner should be able to:

1. Discuss development of pain theories,explain historical development of pain theories and basis for current understanding of pain,define pain and pain terms and classification systems of pain,explain the differences between nociception and  pain and describe pain and behavior
2. Describe peripheral pain mechanisms, dorsal horn processing, ascending and descending modulation and central mechanisms and neurotransmitters in pain ,explain the multiple dimensions of pain to include physiological, sensory, affective, cognitive, behavioral, social /cultural /political
3. Describe the Pathophysiology of pain, peripheral and central mechanisms and explain the pathological consequences of unrelieved pain, and implications of being a multidimensional experience (biological, psychological and social)
4. Discuss the factors influencing neurophysiology (e.g. genetics, age, sex, ethnicity) and describe research methods in pain

Content

History of pain, neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, research methods, sensation and perception, role of emotion, neurochemical basis of pain,  Research methods in pain

Learning and Teaching Methodologies

Lectures, practicals, tutorials, term papers

Instructional Materials and Equipment

Audio visual aids, printed materials, and laboratory equipment for assessing pain in animal models.

Assessment mode

Assignments, practical reports, term papers, CAT, examination

Academic Staff  Evaluation

Monitoring/observation by the Head of Department and assessment by lecturers and student evaluation forms.

Course Texts

1. Wall and Melzack's Textbook of Pain, 6th Edition.
2. Purves et al. (2012) Neuroscience 5th edition.
3. Kandel et al (2012) Principles of Neural Science. 5th edition.

Further Reading Materials and Resources

Foundations of Anesthesia: Basic Sciences for Clinical Practice 2nd edition Edited by: Hugh C Hemmings, Jr. and Philip M Hopkins.

Pain Models: Translational Relevance and Applications Author(s): Hermann O Handwerker, Lars Arendt-Nielson

 

 

Code and Unit Title

HMP 706

CARDIOVASCULAR ADJUSTMENTS IN EXERCISE TRAINING

Learning Hours

45 Hours          1unit

Prerequisite

Undergraduate course in physiology

Purpose

The goal of this unit is to enable the learner to know the physiology of exercise

Expected Learning Outcomes

At the end of the unit, the learner should be able to state or describe the following regarding exercise:

1. Muscle force development, energy utilization and energy sources mechanism of oxygen debt and its recovery and muscle adaptation in prolonged athletic training
2. Pulmonary oxygen diffusion, changes in cardiac output and Changes in fluid and electrolytes.
3. Heat dissipation and heat-stroke and physiological differences between  good and poor exercise performers

 

Content

CNS foundations: determination, motor outflow, reflexes during and prevention of tendon injuries; coordination of pulmonary ventilation with carbon dioxide production; blood gases; glycogen, fatty acids,  glucose and amino acid utilization; aerobic and anaerobic chemistry and production of oxygen debt;   mechanisms for changes in cardiac output:  venous return, lymph follow, sympathetic stimulation, myocardial contractility and  heart rate; exercise stimulated adaptation of muscle; coronary blood flow; myocardial hypertrophy and adaptations; cardiopulmonary performance measurements; heat dissipation and heat-stroke; fluid and electrolytes. Hormones and exercise; effects of exercise on the sense of well-being and prolongation of life

Learning and Teaching Methodologies

Lectures, practicals, and tutorials.

Instructional Materials and Equipment

Audio visual aids, printed materials, seminars

Assessment mode

Assignments reports, term papers, examinations

Academic Staff  Evaluation

Monitoring/observation by the Head of Department and assessment by lecturers and student evaluation forms.

Course Texts

Jonathan Ehrman, Paul Gordon, Paul Visich, Steven Keteyian (2013) Clinical Exercise Physiology-3rd Edition. e-book Edition. ISBN-13: 9781450412803

Hall, John E., (2016) Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology, 13th Edition.  Elsevier, Canada. 1168 pages.

Further Reading Materials and Resources

Scott Powers and Edward Howley (2011)     Exercise Physiology: Theory and Application to Fitness and Performance 8th Edition McGraw-Hill Education

 

Code and Unit Title

HMP 707

GASTRINTESTINAL MICROBIOTA

Learning Hours

45 Hours          1unit

Prerequisite

Undergraduate course in physiology

Purpose

The goal of this unit is to enable the learner to know the role of enteric microbiota in health maintenance, pathogenesis of intestinal disorders, microbial biomarkers and diagnostics and Pathophysiology of intestinal gas.

Expected Learning Outcomes

At the end of the unit, the learner should be able to describe:

1. Life without microbes and primer on terminology, methodologies used to study the microbiota, characteristics of the human gastrointestinal microbiota, microbes, immunity, and metabolic health
2. Microbiota composition and disease associations, microbes and drugs, therapeutic manipulation of microbiota and Intestinal virome
3. Composition and volume of gastrointestinal gas, gas metabolism and excretion, intestinal propulsion, accommodation, and tolerance to gas, clinical gas problems

Content

Anatomical The role of indigenous microbes in human development, health maintenance, and the pathogenesis of several intestinal and extra-intestinal disorders, drug and dietary therapies, microbial biomarkers and diagnostics, and the pathophysiology of intestinal gas.

Learning and Teaching Methodologies

Lectures, practicals, visit  to gastroenterology university hospital clinic

Instructional Materials and Equipment

Audio visual aids, e-learning and printed materials

Assessment mode

Assignments reports, term papers, examination

Academic Staff 

Monitoring/observation by the Head of Department and assessment by lecturers and student evaluation forms.

Course Texts

1. Yatsunenko T, Rey FE, Manary MJ, et al. Human gut microbiome viewed across age and geography. Nature 2012; 486:222-7
2. Clemente JC, Ursell LK, Parfrey LW, et al. The impact of the gut microbiota on human health: An integrative view. Cell 2012; 148:1258-70.
3. Suarez F, Furne J, Springfield J, et al. Insights into human colonic physiology obtained from the study of flatus composition. Am J Physiol 1997; 272:G1028-33.

Further Reading Materials and Resources

1. Fernando A. Intestinal gas. Sleisenger and Fordtran's gastrointestinal and liver disease. 10th Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc
2. Colin H, Fergus S. The enteric microbiota. Sleisenger and Fordtran's gastrointestinal and liver disease. 10th Edition Copyright © 2016 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc.

 

Code and Unit Title

 HMP 708

PHYSIOLOGY OF THE TRANSPLANTED

                   KIDNEY

Learning Hours

45 Hours  1unit

Prerequisite

Undergraduate course in physiology

Purpose

The goal of this unit is to enable the learner to know the physiology of transplanted kidney.

Expected Learning Outcomes

At the end of the unit, the learner should be able to state the

following regarding transplanted kidney:

1.  Effects of perfusion reperfusion, glomerular and tubular functions, renal blood flow and renal hormones
2. Urine concentration capability and the physiology of transplant rejection

Content

Effects of renal motor denervation on:  GFR; PCT reabsorption of sugars, amino acids, sodium potassium and other solutes; reabsorption of bicarbonate; secretion of hydrogen ions; and synthesis of ammonia. Long term changes in renal functions of denervated kidney. Secretion of erythropoietin, 1,25DHCC and 24,25DHHCC. Effects of sensory denervation on reno-renal reflexes. Sensitivity to ADH.

Learning and Teaching Methodologies

Lectures and demonstrations.

Instructional Materials and Equipment

Audio visual aids, e-learning and printed materials

Assessment mode

MCQs, SAQs, Essays and Oral examination, term paper.

Academic Staff  Evaluation

Monitoring/observation by the Head of Department and assessment by lecturers and student evaluation forms.

Course Texts

1. Hiroyuki Kobori, Masaomi Nangaku , L., Gabriel Navar, and Akira Nishiyama (2007) The Intrarenal Renin-Angiotensin System: From Physiology to the Pathobiology of Hypertension and Pharmacol Rev 59:251–287.
2. Kalaitzidis, R.G., Karasavvidou, D. And , Siamopoulos K.C.(2013) Renal sympathetic denervation and renal physiology. Curr Clin Pharmacol. 8(3):189-96.
3. G. F. DiBona, and  Kopp U. C.(1997) Neural control of renal function Physiological Reviews 77 ( 1), 75-197 
4. Hamid Rabb, Frank Daniels, Michael O'Donnell, Mahmud Haq, Sabiha R. Saba, William Keane, Winson W. Tang (2000) pathophysiological role of T lymphocytes in renal ischemia-reperfusion injury in mice. American Journal of Physiology - Renal Physiology. 279 (3), F525-F531

Further Reading Materials and Resources

Joshua J. Augustine and Donald E. Hricik(2006) Anemia after Kidney Transplantation: Time for Action. Journal of the American Society of Nephrology Published online before print October 4, 2006, doi: 10.1681/ASN.2006090991 JASN November 2006 vol. 17 no. 11 2962-2963

 

Code and Unit Title

HMP 709

PHYSIOLOGY OF AGING

Learning Hours

45 hours          1unit

Prerequisite

Undergraduate course in physiology

Purpose

The goal of this unit is to enable the learner  to know the changes which occur in normal aging from birth to advanced age.

Expected Learning Outcomes

At the end of the unit, the learner should be able to:

1.Describe changes in structure and functions of the body during disease- free aging.

Content

Definition of aging; when does aging begin;  effects of chronological age on the aging processes; Clinical Significance;  changes in homeostasis and functional reserve; variability between genders, individuals and organ systems;

Theories of aging: evolutionary, gene regulation, cellular senescence, free radical, and neuro-endocrine-immuno theories.

Aging of physiological systems: Skin, Musculoskeletal, Respiratory function, Cardiovascular, Endocrine and metabolism, Renal system, Gastrointestinal system and appetite, the liver and biliary system,  Neurosensory and Brain;

Aging of specific functions:  sarcopenia, mechanophysiology of connective tissue and bone, Pathophysiology of osteoporosis, energy balance, dynamic exercise performance, temperature regulation, and energy balance.

Learning and Teaching Methodologies

Lectures, practicals, ...

Instructional Materials and Equipment

Audio visual aids, printed materials ...

Assessment mode

Assignments reports, term papers, examinations

Academic Staff  Evaluation

Monitoring/observation by the Head of Department and assessment by lecturers and student evaluation forms.

Course Texts

1. VL Bengtson, R Settersten Jr - 2016   Handbook of theories of aging. Springer Publishing Company
2. Barbara Resnick; Itamar Abrass; Joseph G. Ouslander; Robert Kane. Essentials of Clinical Geriatrics 7/E  (LANGE Essentials) : McGraw-Hill Education / Medical, 2013 :ISBN 13: 9780071792189 ISBN 10: 007179218X

Further Reading Materials and Resources

1. Physiology of Aging: October through December 2003 issues of the Journal of Applied Physiology
2. Evers BM1, Townsend CM Jr, Thompson JC    1994 Feb. Organ physiology of aging. Surg Clin North Am.;74(1):23-39
3. Paola S. Timiras   2000 Physiological Basis of Aging and Geriatrics, Fourth Edition    August 16, CRC Press ISBN 9780849373053

 

Code and Unit Title

HMP 710

MATERNAL, FOETAL AND NEONATAL PHYSIOLOGIES

Learning Hours

45 HOURS          1UNIT

Prerequisite

Undergraduate course in physiology

Purpose

The goal of this unit is to enable the learner

To understand the broad physiological principles that progress from the early embryo through to the later stages of fetal development, birth and early postnatal life.

Expected Learning Outcomes

At the end of the unit, the learner should be able to describe:

1. Physiology of pregnancy,the embryo,fetal physiology and neonatal physiology
2. Mechanisms of embryonic origins of the prevalence of adult diseases such as coronary heart disease, stroke, hypertension and diabetes.

Content

Reversible normal physiological changes after conception: Plasma volume,  hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit and red blood cell count, platelet counts, and hemostasis; iron and vitamin requirements; cardiovascular changes and adaptive changes in the vasculature hemodynamics which may result in  edema, ecg changes; respiratory system; RAA system; water metabolism. Hormonal changes, changes in the nervous system; musculo- skeletal system; embryonic development of physiological systems;  the immune systems of the fetus and the neonate

Learning and Teaching Methodologies

Lectures, practicals, ...

Instructional Materials and Equipment

Audio visual aids, printed materials ...

Assessment mode

Assignments reports, term papers, examinations

Academic Staff  Evaluation

Monitoring/observation by the Head of Department and assessment by lecturers and student evaluation forms.

Course Texts

Blackburn,  S.T.  2014.  Maternal, Fetal, & Neonatal Physiology: A Clinical Perspective. Elsevier Health Sciences

Priya Soma-Pillay,  Nelson-Piercy Catherine,  Heli Tolppanen,  Alexandre Mebazaa,  Heli Tolppanen,  and Alexandre Mebazaa. Physiological changes in pregnancy. Cardiovasc J Afr. 2016 Mar-Apr; 27(2): 89–94.

A. Katharina Simon, Georg A. Hollander, Andrew McMichael. 2015. Evolution of the immune system in humans from infancy to old age . 22 December 2015 Volume 282, issue 1821

DOI: 0.1098/rspb.2014.3085

Further Reading Materials and Resources

 

 

 PROJECT

Code and Unit Title

HMP 407 PROJECT

Learning Hours

225 hours              5 units

Prerequisite

Knowledge of undergraduate physiology and students who have completed third year  in MBChB, BDS and BPharm

Purpose

The goal of this unit is to enable the learner to write a thesis based on their research work

Expected Learning Outcomes

At the end of the unit, the learner should be able to:

1. Write a thesis of their own research

Content

Preparation of a basic research proposal.  Carrying out of the research in consultation with the supervisors. Writing and presenting a thesis which conforms to University of Nairobi guidelines.

Learning and Teaching Methodologies

Lectures, discovery learning, problem based learning, experimental learning, group –based learning, independent studies and eLearning and practicals Consultation and presentation

Instructional Materials and Equipment

Audio visual aids, printed materials

Assessment mode

 Thesis presentation

Academic Staff  Evaluation

Monitoring/observation by the Head of Department and assessment by lecturers and student evaluation forms.

Course Texts

Department format for thesis preparation

 

Further Reading Materials and Resources

 

Thesis Writing for Master's and Ph.D. ProgramProgrammememe. Editors S.C. Parija and Vikram Kate. 2018. Publisher. Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. eBook ISBN 978-981-13-0890-1.

Research and Thesis Writing: A Textbook on the Principles and Techniques of Thesis Construction for the Use of Graduate Students in Universities and Colleges Paperback– 2008. by John C. Almack (Author). Publisher: Indigo Books (2008).  ISBN-10: 8129201461. ISBN-13: 978-8129201461

Chandrasekhar, R. (2002). How to write a thesis: A working guide. The University of Western Australia.