Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

None

Co Requisite Comment

None

Aims

1) This module aims to build an understanding on the basic principles of how the nervous system works and the importance of the nervous system in controlling conscious and unconscious motor and sensory system, behaviour and cognition etc.

2) This module aims to develop a students’ understanding of the physiology of the lung, the molecular pathology and pathogenesis of a range of lung diseases and the diagnostic tools and treatments available for these diseases.

3) This module gives an opportunity to further develop written and oral communication skills

Outline Of Syllabus

Neuroscience Strand:

•Introduction: overview of excitable cells (neuroanatomy and neurophysiology).
•Excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission
•Introduction to Sensory System : Sensation and Cognition
•Motor System
•Research methods applied to cellular and systems neuroscience


Respiratory Disease Strand:

•Introduction - Structure of the lung/mechanics of breathing/compliance/oxygen transfer.
•The pathology and molecular pathogenesis of a range of obstructive and restrictive lung diseases including COPD, asthma, emphysema, IPF, cryptogenic fibrosing alveolitis, extrinsic allergic alveolitis, sarcoidosis.
•Industrial diseases including pneumoconiosis and asbestosis.
•The role of atmospheric pollutants, PM10, PM5, ultrafine particles, NO, SO2 on the development of lung disease will be discussed.
•The pathology and pathogenesis of a range of respiratory infections including Staphylococcus aureus, Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumonea, mycobacterium tuberculosis.
•The bacteriology symptoms clinical nature, epidemiology, treatments and prevention of whooping cough, diptheria and legionnaire's disease.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

On successful completion of the module students will be able to;

•Describe the basic principles of how the nervous system works
•Explain the importance of the nervous system in controlling conscious and unconscious motor and sensory system, behaviour, cognition etc.
•Review the basic principles of research in neuroscience
•Discuss the structure and function of the lung in relation to the pathogenesis of a range of lung diseases and infections.
•Compare and contrast the pathology and molecular pathophysiology of a range of obstructive and restrictive and lung diseases.
•Describe the pathology and pathophysiology of a range of occupational lung diseases.
•Describe the pathology and pathophysiology of a range of respiratory infections and discuss the pulmonary complications of such diseases.
•Describe the current tests used in the diagnosis of respiratory diseases.
•Gather and interpret information with respect to the current and future treatment options for a range of respiratory diseases.

Intended Skill Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will be able to;

•       Source information using appropriate databases (e.g. Medline).
•       Research and produce a written report in an appropriate scientific style

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures will provide students with key information. The Seminar session will encourage an increased understanding of the material through discussion. There will also be an essay-writing workshop to prepare students for the in course and final essay-style exam questions. Private study and active learning on part of the students are essential. These will allow students to extend their knowledge through reading of text books, journal articles and other recommended reading.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The examination provides evidence of individual knowledge and understanding of the topics. The extended essay supports the students’ development in finding and critically analysing current literature and their written communication skills.

General Notes

N/A