Module Information

Module Identifier
VE20430
Module Title
Alimentary, endocrine and urogenital systems (year 2)
Academic Year
2021/2022
Co-ordinator
Professor Darrell Abernethy
Semester
Semester 2 (Taught over 2 semesters)
Other Staff
 

Course Delivery

 

Assessment

Due to Covid-19 students should refer to the module Blackboard pages for assessment details

Assessment Type Assessment length / details Proportion
Semester Assessment .5 Hours   in-class written test  20%
Semester Exam 2 Hours   Exam  All VE modules to be in one week of exams (confirmed by TW, PVC)  60%
Semester Exam .16 Hours   Oral exam  20%
Supplementary Assessment 2 Hours   resit exam  60%
Supplementary Exam .16 Hours   Oral exam  40%

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students should be able to:

Describe the development, structure, function and control of the major endocrine glands e.g. pituitary, thyroid, adrenal etc.

Discuss the pathological basis, diagnostic changes and treatments related to common endocrine diseases under examination conditions.

Illustrate the microscopic and gross anatomy structure of the alimentary system in domestic animals, (monogastric and ruminant species), including its innervation and blood supply in a three-dimensional context allowing an appreciation of function.

Describe the regulation of the GI tract; the function, nature and control of the movements and the function, composition and control of the secretions entering the digestive tract.

Describe the major pathways involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins in the mammalian body. This includes tissue-specific events, with emphasis on energy metabolism and its regulation by hormonal and other mechanisms, especially where these apply to disease processes using diabetes mellitus of the cat as an example.

To enable the student to acquire a detailed knowledge of the fundamentals of the reproductive system, ensuring that the variations found amongst the domestic animals are clearly understood and appreciated.

Discuss the applications of reproductive system knowledge in diagnosis of disease, treatment of disease, in the manipulation of reproduction for the benefit of production and for the convenience of owners.

Provide an overview of the way in which the urinary system participates in the close regulation of the volume and composition of interstitial fluid, including the influence of drugs on the processes.

Brief description

This module will expand on the first year Alimentary, Endocrine and Urogenital systems module, exploring areas such as: 1) endocrine gland anatomy & common endocrine diseases and 2) an overview of the normal structure and function of the digestive, urogenital and endocrine systems. This will be the start of the “Alimentary”, “Endocrine” and “Urogenital” strands which will be delivered throughout the BVSc course.

Content

Combining practical anatomy classes with lectures and small group teaching, this module examines in greater depth the physiology of the digestive, endocrine, renal and reproductive systems and introduces common diseases. Throughout the module, linkages between these systems and others will be highlighted to ensure synthesis of knowledge.
Renal anatomy and function will be discussed with specific topics including the structure of the kidney, regulation of mineral and water balance including the impact of drugs on kidneys. Key organs and tissues involved in reproduction, pregnancy and birth will be studied, as will endocrine regulation and artificial manipulation of reproduction. In addition to endocrine control of reproduction, the role of endocrine secretions in a range of systems will be explored as well as common endocrine diseases in animals. Finally, the normal function of the digestive tract will be examined using a full integration of the disciplines of anatomy, physiology, pharmacology and biochemistry. This will lead onto descriptions of common veterinary alimentary diseases to provide clinical context in regards to this critical body system.

Module Skills

Skills Type Skills details
Outside the formal contact hours, students will be expected to research materials, manage time and meet deadlines for the coursework and exam. This aspect is not assessed.
The exam will require students to research topics beyond the depth and scope of the lecture material. Information from a variety of sources will be used. Research skills will be assessed in the examination.
Small group learning will encourage students to communicate, assess and present information as a team. This aspect is not assessed.
During the module, students will gain knowledge of veterinary terminology and anatomical locations assessed in exams.
Accessing the web for reliable information sources and using databases to find literature in preparation for the exam. This will not be directed assessed.
Students will develop effective written communication skills in the examination and oral communication in the oral exam, where these will be assessed. Feedback for this will be given.
Students will have contact with veterinary surgeons and biology researchers providing insight into these sectors. This aspect is not assessed.
Small group learning/Practical classes and exams will involve problem solving.

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 5