- Course Number: 6470
- Credits: 3
- Course Format: This online course is tailored for asynchronous distance learners.
- Course Syllabus: Download
Course Description
The course covers a quantitative understanding of atmospheric, alveolar and blood gas pressures, as well as quantitative understanding of oxygen carriage in blood and alterations in blood chemistry that result from changes in blood gases. Particular attention is paid to building an understanding of these concepts as defined in theoretical models as developed by theoretical physiologists. Concepts are taught using a combination of lectures, quantitative exercises based on theoretical physiology modeling, online literature critique and a capstone research and scientific writing project. The quantitative exercises are designed to elucidate quantitative physiological concepts and to teach the students heuristic methodology for calculation of physiologic variables. The literature critique is designed to teach students to apply physiological knowledge in order to assess experimental data and their interpretation. The writing project is designed to teach students to understand complex physiological processes and to be able to write a scholarly short review of the subject with proper citations of the primary literature. The ultimate goal is for students to develop an understanding of quantitative theoretical models of respiration, to develop quantitative problem solving and critical thinking skills and to develop skills for evaluation and reporting of concepts addressed in the peer-reviewed literature.
Course Goals
The overarching objective of this course is to provide a quantitative understanding of atmospheric, alveolar and blood gas pressures, as well as quantitative understanding of oxygen carriage in blood and alterations in blood chemistry that result from changes in blood gases. The specific topics covered are: 1) the chemistry and physics of respiration; 2) hemoglobin; 3) alveolar gases; 4) diffusion; and 5) acidosis and alkalosis. These topics will be explored in detail using a quantitative approach, gaining an understanding of the physiology using theoretical (mathematical) physiological models. These objectives will be achieved using a combination of lectures, quantitative exercises, literature critique and scientific writing.