The student develops a pilot study prospectus. Students study in detail the anatomy and physiology of the human cardiovascular and pulmonary systems, with particular emphasis on the effect of acute and chronic exercise, pathophysiology and cardiopulmonary disease, pharmacology of cardiac drugs, and the effect of aging. Students study the scientific aspects of electrocardiography, including cardiac electrophysiology, normal ECG patterns, and major abnormalities such as dysrhythmias, conduction disturbances, myocardial infraction, and hypertrophy. Principles and practice of graded exercise test preparation, administration, and interpretations are also discussed. Students gain experience with instruments found in the exercise physiology laboratory including computerized metabolic measurement equipment.
Emphasis is placed on calibration theory and collection and analysis of data.
Nutrients essential for the human are examined with emphasis on functions, metabolism, and factors affecting utilization. Inquiries are directed toward controversial theories concerning significance of specific nutrients in health. The metabolism of macronutrients, inclusive of the regulatory role of vitamins and minerals, is discussed from the standpoint of individual systems including the gastrointestinal tract, liver, muscle, adipose tissue, brain, kidney, and red blood cells. Processes that are emphasized include digestion, absorption, transport, and homeostatis. Integrative functioning among several organ systems is discussed.