Basic Physiology

Physiol-10A16 Describe the processes whereby substances may cross cell

membranes, giving examples.

Physiol-06A12 Classify and describe the main cellular and molecular

mechanisms by which chemical neurotransmitters exert their effects. Use
examples from cholinergic and adrenergic neurotransmission to illustrate the
answer. 42%

Physiol-04B15 Describe the mechanism of action of G-proteins in the cell

(60% pass rate)

Physiol-01B5 Describe the structure and function of voltage gated ion

channels

Physiol-98B7 Briefly describe structure of mitochondria. Outline the metabolic

processes that occur in mitochondria 64%

Physiol-97B2 Describe mechanism of action in G proteins 47%

Physiol-97A1 Describe the structure and function of voltage sensitive ion

channels

Physiol-93B3 Briefly describe role of intercellular tight junctions

Physiol-93A2 What are 'membrane channels'? How are they investigated?

Describe one commonly interfered with in Anaesthesia

Physiol-91** Write short notes on the Endoplasmic Reticulum

Fluid & Electrolyte Physiology

Physiol-09A11 Same as Physiol-01A1

Physiol-05B12 Briefly discuss the physiological roles of plasma proteins. 29%

Physiol-05A11 Same as Physiol-01A7 41%

Physiol-01A7 Describe how the body detects and responds to a water deficit
50%

Physiol-01A1 Outline the determinants and regulation of extracellular fluid

volume 68%

Physiol-98B6 Briefly discuss the physiological roles of plasma proteins 55%

Physiol-96A7 In the diagram below indicate how the solvent and solute move
across a semipermeable membrane and give a brief explanation of the
principles involved. 70%
BLOOD
Potassium Urea Osmolality Pressure

(6.5 (40 (320 (100

mmol.L-1) mmol.L-1) mosmol.L-1) mmHg)

SEMIPERMEABLE MEMBRANE

DIALYSAT
E
Potassium Urea Osmolality Pressure

(3.5 (0 (346 (10

mmol.L-1) mmol.L-1) mosmol.L-1) mmHg)

Physiol-95B5 Outline the effects of IV administration of 500 mls of 20%

mannitol, and the potential problems associated with its use.

1995 Explain how a metabolic alkalosis develops in an adult patient with a

small bowel obstruction and nasogastric losses in excess of 1000ml per day
for 5 days. Give a brief account of the physiological principles determining
fluid replacement.

1994 Outline the effects of a rapid injection of 100mls of hypertonic Iodine-

containing angiography contrast medium in an otherwise healthy adult.
1994 Compare the advantages and disadvantages of synthetic colloids and
SPPS in volume replacement

1992 Write short notes on serum calcium

1992 Write short notes on osmoreceptors

1990 Write short notes on the regulation of calcium

Acid-Base Physiology

Physiol-10B15 Discuss the role of haemoglobin as a buffer.

Physiol-08A11 Outline the physiological consequences of diabetic keto

acidosis.

Physiol-07A11 Discuss how the body handles a metabolic acidosis. 57%

Physiol-06B15 Explain how a metabolic acidosis develops in hypovolaemic

shock. Describe the consequences of this metabolic acidosis for the body.
53%

Physiol-05A15 Discuss how the body handles a metabolic acidosis. 38%

Physiol-03A9 Explain the role of haemoglobin as a buffer. 38%

Physiol-95B8 Outline the physiological consequences of hyperosmolar

diabetic ketoacidosis 39%

Physiol-98B5 Explain how metabolic acidosis develops in hypovolaemic

shock. Describe the consequences of metabolic acidosis to the body. 55%

Physiol-95A6 Describe the effects of intravenously administered sodium

bicarbonate (8.4%) 100ml used in asystolic cardiac arrest in a 70 kg man
46%

1995 Explain how a metabolic alkalosis develops in an adult patient with a

small bowel obstruction and nasogastric losses in excess of 1000ml per day
for 5 days. Give a brief account of the physiological principles determining
fluid replacement.

1992 Write short notes on Haemoglobin as a buffer

1990 Write short notes on extracellular buffers

Respiratory Physiology

Control of Respiration

Physiol-06A10 List the physiological factors which increase respiratory rate.

Include a brief explanation of the mechanism by which each achieves this
increase. 62%

Physiol-02B10 List the physiological factors which increase respiratory rate.

Include a brief explanation of the mechanism by which each achieves this
increase. 55%

Physiol-95B9 List physiological factors which increase respiratory rate and

include a brief explanation of the mechanism by which each achieves this
increase. 40%

1993 Write brief notes on breathlessness in exercise.

Mechanics of Breathing

Physiol-10B12 Describe the function of the muscles involved in ventilation.

Physiol-10B9 Describe the factors that affect respiratory system compliance.

Physiol-10A14 Describe the factors that affect static respiratory system

compliance. 36%

Physiol-08B13 Explain the concept of time constants and relate these to

"fast" and "slow" alveoli.

Physiol-06B10 Describe the determinants of work of breathing in an adult

human at rest. 62%

Physiol-03B13 Describe the factors that affect airways resistance. 64%

Physiol-03A14 Describe the factors that affect lung compliance. 39%

Physiol-01B2 Describe the determinants of work of breathing in an adult

human at rest. 72%

Physiol-00A5 Describe the important determinants of work of breathing in an

adult human at rest. Explain how to minimise work of breathing 50%

Physiol-99B3 Describe the factors that affect airway resistance 60%

Physiol-98B8 Briefly describe the factors that affect airway resistance 11%
1991 Short notes on work of breathing

1991 Short notes on measurement of transpulmonary pressure

1990 Short notes on lung compliance

Pulmonary Gas Volumes and Ventilation

Physiol-05B16 Explain the changes on Functional Residual Capacity (FRC)

that take place with the administration of anaesthesia. 48%

Physiol-03B11 Briefly describe the potential causes of a difference between

measured end-tidal and arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide. 43%

Physiol-00B3 Draw an expiratory flow volume curve for a forced expiration

from total lung capacity.

Describe its characteristics in people with normal lungs, as well as those with
obstructive and restrictive lung disease. 77%

Physiol-98A2 Draw a flow/volume curve for a maximum forced expiration in a

person with healthy lungs from: (a) Total lung capacity; (b) Function Residual
capacity. Explain your curves 61%

Physiol-97B7 Explain the factors influencing the distribution of ventilation

during the inhalation of 500ml of air from Functional Residual Capacity in the
erect posture 56%

Physiol-96B6 Draw a respiratory flow/volume loop and outline how it is

obtained. Briefly explain the physiological mechanisms involved in the
concept of flow limitation. 51%

Physiol-96B7 Explain differences between measured end-tidal and arterial

partial pressures of C02 67%

1995 What is the end tidal C02? How does it differ from arterial C02 tension
and the mixed expired C02 tension? What factors influence its value?

1990 Write short notes on physiological dead space

Ventilation Perfusion Inequalities

Physiol-07A9 Define 'Venous Admixture'. Briefly explain how venous
admixture influences arterial 02 tension and how an increase in inspired 02
concentration may affect this. 43%

Physiol-02A3 Define 'Venous Admixture'. Briefly explain how venous

admixture influences arterial 02 tension and how an increase in inspired 02
concentration may affect this. 46%

Physiol-97A7 Compare the effect on arterial blood C02 and 02 levels of

ventilation/perfusion inequalities

Physiol-95B1 Define 'Venous Admixture'. Briefly explain how venous

admixture influences arterial 02 tension and how an increase in inspired 02
concentration may affect this. 34%

Gas transport in the Blood

Physiol-10A09 Explain the physiological factors that may lead to a decrease

in mixed venous blood oxygen saturation.

Physiol-09A16 Outline the effects of acute exposure to air at an altitude

where barometric pressure is 347mmHg. What compensatory mechanisms
occur with gradual exposure to increasing altitude?

Physiol-07B10 Discuss factors which affect the partial pressure of carbon

dioxide in mixed venous blood.

Physiol-05A12 Describe the physiological factors influencing the carbon

dioxide tension in arterial blood. 38%

Physiol-04B9 Describe how carbon dioxide is produced in the body. How does
it move from the site of production to the pulmonary capillary? 60%

Physiol-04A11 What is 2,3, DPG? How is it produced in the red blood cell and
how does it interact with haemoglobin? What is its relevance in altitude
exposure, anaemia and stored blood? 84%

Physiol-03B12 Explain the difference between perfusion limitation and

diffusion limitation in the transfer of gas between alveolus and pulmonary
capillary. Outline the factors that determine whether gas transfer is perfusion
or diffusion limited. 45%
Physiol-02A1 Explain how oxygen supply of organs is maintained during
isovolaemic haemodilution. 45%

Physiol-00A2 Briefly describe the factors that influence the partial pressure of
oxygen in mixed venous blood 56%

Physiol-99B5 Describe the ways in which CO2 is carried in the blood 55%

Physiol-99A3 Describe the factors that affect the transport of oxygen and
carbon dioxide form the alveolus to the blood. 44%

Physiol-97A3 Describe the role of haemoglobin in the carriage of carbon

dioxide in the blood 59%

Physiol-96B8 Briefly explain how an oxygen debt arises and how the body
deals with it 75%

Physiol-96B5 Explain briefly how oxygenation of organs can be maintained

during isovolaemic haemodilution. 66%

Physiol-96A1 List the normal values for mixed venous blood gases and briefly
explain the factors determining mixed venous oxygen tension.

Physiol-95A1 What is 2,3, DPG? How is it produced in the red blood cell and
how does it interact with haemoglobin? What is its relevance in altitude
exposure, stored blood and anaemia?

1993 What factors influence the mixed venous C02 tension. Briefly explain
how these factors exert their influence.

1991 Write short notes on 2,3 diphosphoglycerate (DPG)

Pulmonary Circulation

Physiol-05B9 Describe the gravity dependent processes which affect

pulmonary blood flow. What changes take place when the pressure increases
in the pulmonary vessels? 82%

Physiol-04A9 Briefly outline the differences between the pulmonary

circulation and the systemic circulation 26%

Physiol-02A4 Outline the physiological factors that influence pulmonary

vascular resistance 57%
Physiol-00A3 What is a normal value for pulmonary vascular resistance?
Outline physiological factors that influence pulmonary vascular resistance
49%

Physiol-97A2 Describe the gravity dependent processes which affect

pulmonary blood flow. What changes take place when the pressure increases
in the pulmonary vessels? 67%

1995 Briefly outline the differences between the pulmonary and systemic
circulation

Other Respiratory Physiology

Physiol-08B15 Describe the changes that occur with ageing that can affect
oxygen delivery to the tissue during moderate exercise.

Physiol-08A16 Discuss the physiological causes of early post-operative

hypoxaemia. 13%

Physiol-05A13 Describe the non-respiratory functions of the lung. 56%

Physiol-04A12 What are the physiological consequences of decreasing

functional residual capacity by one litre in an adult? 50%

Physiol-01B1 Explain the effects of intermittent positive pressure ventilation

on left ventricular output. 55%

Physiol-01A8 What are the physiological consequences of decreasing

functional residual capacity by one litre in an adult? 62%

Physiol-98A1 Explain the effects of intermittent positive pressure ventilation

on left ventricular output 38%

Physiol-96B3 Explain briefly the effects of intermittent positive pressure

ventilation on left ventricular output. 31%
Cardiovascular Physiology

Electrical Properties of the Heart

Physiol-02A2 Draw a labelled diagram of a cardiac action potential

highlighting the sequence of changes in ionic conductances. Explain the
terms 'threshold', 'excitability', and 'irritability' with the aid of a diagram. 56%

Physiol-95B4 Draw a labelled diagram of a cardiac action potential

highlighting the sequence of changes in ion conductances. Explain the terms
'threshold', 'excitability' and 'irritability' with the aid of a diagram.

1993 Briefly discuss the interaction of the action potential duration and
conduction velocity in the ventricular myocardium and its effect on
myocardial performance

Determinants and Control of the Cardiac Output

Physiol-09B9 Classify the causes of hypotension in the early post-operative

period, giving relevant examples.

Physiol-09A13 What is the Frank-Starling mechanism and describe its

relationship to excitation contraction coupling.

Physiol-07A13 Describe the determinants of Venous Return and the effect

general anaesthesia would have on these. 60%

Physiol-06B9 Describe the factors that oppose left ventricular ejection. 14%

Physiol-05B13 Explain how cardiac output is measured using a thermodilution

technique (53% Pass)

Physiol-04B10 List the physiological factors which affect left atrial pressure
and explain their effects (19% pass rate)

Physiol-02B9 Draw a pressure volume loop for a left ventricle in a normal

adult. Outline the information that can be obtained from such a loop. 67%

Physiol-96A3 Draw a pressure volume loop for a left ventricle in a healthy

adult and state the normal pressures and volumes. Outline the information
which can be obtained from a pressure volume loop and how such a loop can
be constructed.
1995 Draw and label a left atrial pressure trace against time. List the
physiological factors which effect left atrial pressure and explain their effects.
68%

1993 Quote Starling's law of the heart. Outline the factors that determine the
right ventricular end diastolic volume

Physiol-1990-a Discuss the relationship between cardiac output and venous

return. Include factors that determine the magnitude of both.

Peripheral Vascular System

Physiol-08B14 Explain in physiologic terms the effect of severe aortic stenosis

on myocardial oxygen supply and demand.

Physiol-04B16 Explain the physiological processes involved in the

development of interstitial oedema 76%

Physiol-04A10 Describe the vasoactive substances released by the

endothelium. Explain the role they play in regulating blood flow through the
peripheral circulation. 65%

Physiol-01B8 Explain the physiological processes involved in the development

of interstitial oedema 46%

Physiol-01A6 Describe the substances released by the endothelium. Explain

the role they play in regulating blood flow through the peripheral circulation
72%

Physiol-99B8 Draw both aortic root and a radial artery pressure wave forms
on the same axes. Explain the differences between them. 50%

Physiol-99A8 Explain the significance of plasma oncotic pressure in capillary

fluid dynamics. 75%

Physiol-97B1 Explain the local effects of a decrease on plasma colloid osmotic

pressure in the skeletal muscle capillary bed 64%

1994 Briefly discuss the factors that influence the rate of blood flow through
a capillary bed

1994 Describe the relationship between vascular tone and tissue oxygenation

1993 Briefly discuss the humoral factors that control blood pressure
1991 Give an account of the Starling forces within the capillary circulation.
Include specific reference to the pulmonary and glomerular capillaries.

Control of Circulation

Physiol-10A13 Describe the autonomic innervation of the heart and the

effects of autonomic stimulation on cardiac function.

Physiol-07B9 Describe the cardiovascular response to central neural

blockade.

Physiol-06A9 Outline the systemic cardiovascular response to exercise. 71%

Physiol-05B15 Describe the autonomic innervation of the heart and the direct
effect of autonomic stimulation on the heart. 43%

Physiol-05A14 Describe the compensatory mechanisms in a fit person moving

from the supine to the standing position. 52%

Physiol-03B10 Describe the role of baroreceptors in the control of systemic

arterial pressure. 57%

Physiol-00B1 Describe the role of baroreceptors in the control of arterial

pressure 54%

Physiol-99A7 Describe the autonomic innervation of the heart and the direct
effect of autonomic stimulation on the heart. 59%

Physiol-98B2 Describe the compensatory mechanism in a fit person moving

from the supine to the erect position 63%

Physiol-94B1 On arising from the horizontal position, in a normal gravitational

field, a series of reflex adjustments follows which results in a redistribution of
blood volume and body water. DISCUSS the physics and physiology involved.
54%

Physiol-94B2 Explain the cardiovascular responses to a Valsalva manoeuvre

maintained for 30 seconds. What can be learnt about cardiovascular function
from observing these responses?

1993 Briefly discuss the humoral factors that control blood pressure.

1992 Write short notes on volume receptors

Regional Circulations

Physiol-10B10 Discuss the factors that influence coronary blood flow.

Physiol-08A14 Describe the pathways whereby myocardial ischaemia may be

experienced as pain in the throat or arm regions.

Physiol-08A9 The skin, the kidneys, and the carotid bodies are examples of
where specific organ blood flow is far in excess of that organ's metabolic
requirements. For each example, explain what the physiological role of the
high organ blood flow is, why this high flow is an advantage to the person and
a brief description of the mechanisms involved.

Physiol-03B9 Describe the effects of tachycardia on myocardial oxygen

supply and demand in a normal heart. 40%

Physiol-03A12 Explain the mechanisms that maintain cerebral blood flow on

moving from a supine to a standing position. 60%

Physiol-03A10 Describe the factors influencing hepatic blood flow. 55%

Physiol-02B11 Outline the factors that determine coronary vascular

resistance 65%

Physiol-99B6 Explain the mechanisms that maintain cerebral blood flow on

moving from a supine to a standing position. 51%

Physiol-99A6 Describe the factors influencing hepatic blood flow. 73%

Physiol-97A8 List the determinants of coronary artery blood flow. Briefly

compare phasic coronary blood flow in the left and right coronary arteries.
51%

Physiol-96B4 Explain briefly the mechanisms that maintain cerebral blood

flow on moving from a supine position to a standing position. 56%

Physiol-95A4 The heart rate of a healthy 20 yr old goes from 55bpm to 130
bpm after receiving atropine IV. Describe the effects of tachycardia on
myocardial O2 supply and demand in a normal heart.
Renal Physiology

Physiol-10A11 Describe the changes that occur in the urine and the plasma
with renal dysfunction.

Physiol-09B13 Explain the physiological processes that cause oliguria in

response to hypovolaemic shock.

Physio-08B16 Outline the mechanisms by which the kidney maintains

potassium homeostasis.

Physiol-08A15 Describe how the kidney establishes the medullary

concentrating gradient.

Physiol-07B12 Discuss the role of the kidney in regulating potassium

homeostasis.

Physiol-07A12 Explain the physiological principles underlying the use of

peritoneal dialysis in a patient with chronic renal failure with this dialysate
solution. 17%
Na 132
Mg 0.5 mEq/L
mEq/L
Lactate 40
K 0 mEq/L
mEq/L
Cl 96 glucose 2.5 g
mEq/L %
Ca 3.5
mEq/L

Physiol-06B11 List the hormones that regulate tubular reabsorption and

describe their action and site of action. 81%

Physiol-06A14 Explain the physiological processes which cause oliguria in

response to hypovolaemic shock 38%

Physiol-05B10 Describe the forces acting across the glomerular capillar

membrane. Explain how afferent and effferent arteriolar tone affect
glomerular filtration rate. 62%

Physiol-04A16 Explain how the kidney handles glucose. Describe the

physiological consequences of glycosuria. 57%

Physiol-04A13 Describe the concept of renal clearance and its use to estimate
glomerular filtration rate 69%
Physiol-03B14 Outline the role of the kidney in the regulation of body water.
34%

Physiol-03A16 Describe the functions of the loop of Henle, including the

physiological mechanisms involved. 64%

Physiol-02A6 Explain the physiological processes which cause oliguria in

response to hypovolaemic shock 72%

Physiol-01B6 Explain how the kidney handles glucose. Describe the

physiological consequences of glycosuria. 47%

Physiol-00B8 Describe the factors governing glomerular filtration rate 52%

Physiol-00A7 List the hormones that regulate renal tubular reabsorption and
describe their action and site of action 70%

Physiol-99B4 Outline the role of the kidneys in the regulation of total body
water 66%

Physiol-99B4 Explain how the kidney handles glucose. Describe the

physiological consequences of glycosuria. 49%

Physiol-98B1 Describe the concept of renal clearance and its use to estimate
glomerular filtration rate 79%

Physiol-98B3 Describe the process of tubuloglomerular feedback. 70%

Physiol-98A5 Describe the factors governing glomerular filtration rate 78%

Physiol-95B2 Explain the physiological processes which cause oliguria in

response to hypovolaemic shock 63%

Physiol-95A9 Briefly outline the role of the kidneys in the regulation of body
water 21%

Physiol-94A3 Explain the mechanisms involved in sodium handling by the

kidney
Neurophysiology

Physiol-10B14 Discuss the effects on intracranial pressure when a person is

placed in a head down tilt.

Physiol-09B14 Outline the central nervous system effects on an awake person

breathing air containing carbon dioxide. 42%

Physiol-09A12 Same as Physiol-02A5 and Physiol-96A4

Physiol-09A9 Discuss the physiological factors that determine intracranian

pressue (ICP), and describe how changes in posture affect ICP

Physiol-08B11 Write brief notes on the physiological changes association with

sleep.

Physiol-08A13 Describe the production of cerebrospinal fluid, its role and its
fate.

Physiol-05A10 Write brief notes on the physiological changes associated with

sleep. 47%

Physiol-04A15 List the physiological factors that determine intracranial

pressure. Explain briefly how intracranial pressure is regulated. 57%

Physiol-03B15 Briefly describe the NMDA (N-methyl d-aspartate) receptor and

its physiological role in the central nervous system. 55%

Physiol-02A5 Outline the factors contributing to the generation and

maintenance of the resting membrane potential 77%

Physiol-00B6 Briefly discuss the physiological control of intraocular pressure

30%

Physiol-98A8 Briefly describe the NMDA (n-methyl d-aspartate) receptor and

its physiological role in the central nervous system. 59%

Physiol-97B3 List the physiological factors which determine intracranial

pressure and explain briefly how it is regulated. 61%

Physiol-97A5 What is saltatory conduction and what are the advantages of

this type of conduction? 80%

Physiol-96B1 Explain briefly the physiological mechanisms whereby an action

potential arriving at a synapse might not be conducted. 22%
Physiol-96A4 Outline the factors contributing to the generation and
maintenance of the resting membrane potential.

1996 List the physiological factors which determine intracranial pressure and
explain briefly how it is controlled.

Physiol-95B6 List the physiological factors which determine intracranial

pressure and briefly explain how it is controlled. 67%

1994 Draw a graph of a nerve action potential and outline its physiological
basis

1994 Briefly outline the physiological factors that determine cerebrospinal

fluid (CSF) formation

93A1 Discuss the physiological consequences which you would expect to

occur during the first few hours of a traumatic section of the spinal cord at
the level of C6 assuming no other injuries.

1993 Outline the neuroendocrine functions of the brain

1991 Write short notes on the axonal membrane

1991 Write short notes on cerebrospinal fluid

1990 Write short notes on synaptic transmission

Muscle Physiology

Physiol-06B13 Briefly describe the structure of a mammalian skeletal muscle

fibre and explain how its structure is related to its contractile function. DO
NOT describe excitation-contraction coupling. 35%

Physiol-05B14 Describe the processes of excitation and contraction within

smooth muscle cells. 53%

Physiol-04B14 Briefly describe the difference between a single twitch and a

tetanic contraction in a skeletal muscle fibre. Include in your answer the
physiological basis for the development of a tetanic contraction. 54%

Physiol-01A2 Briefly describe the effect of resting muscle length and load
conditions on the tension generated by a skeletal muscle. How do these
factors affect the velocity of shortening? 19%

Physiol-00B5 Briefly discuss the relationship between structure and function

in skeletal muscle 52%

Physiol-00A4 Briefly describe the difference between a single twitch and a

tetanic contraction in a skeletal muscle fibre. Include in your answer the
physiological basis for the development of a tetanic contraction. 53%

Physiol-98A3 Briefly describe the structure of a mammalian skeletal muscle

fibre and explain how its structure is related to its contractile function. DO
NOT describe excitation-contraction coupling. 62%

1993 Briefly discuss the role of calcium in the coupling of electrical and
mechanical events in skeletal muscle.

1990 Write short notes on isometric and isotonic muscle contraction

Physiology of Blood & Immune System

Physiol-10A10 Describe how white blood cells defend the body against
infection. 40%

Physiol-10A12 Briefly explain the changes that occur in stored whole blood.
41%

Physiol-09B12 Describe the production and function of red blood cells. 48%

Physiol-09B15 Describe the complement system. 57%

Physiol-07B13 What are the physiological reasons making it safe to give O

negative blood to patients. 34%

Physiol-07A10 Explain the mechanisms that prevent blood clotting in intact

blood vessels (do not draw the clotting cascade). 57%

Physiol-06A11 Briefly outline the role of platelets in haemostasis. 60%

Physiol-05B11 Outline the principles of compatibility testing of blood for

transfusion. 75%

Physiol-02B12 Briefly explain the changes that occur in stored whole blood
58%

Physiol-01B7 Explain the main difference between the intrinsic and extrinsic
pathways of coagulation. 41%

Physiol-00B4 Outline the principles of compatibility testing of allogeneic

(homologous) blood for transfusion 27%

Physiol-00A8 Briefly describe the breakdown of haemoglobin after red cell

lysis 17%

Physiol-99A2 Explain the mechanisms that prevent blood clotting in intact

blood vessels (do not draw the clotting cascade) 42%

Physiol-97B5 Briefly describe the complement system 21%

Physiol-97A6 Briefly outline the role of platelets in haemostasis. 77%

Physiol-95B10 Briefly explain the changes that occur in stored whole blood
40%

Physiol-95A7 Briefly explain the mechanisms that prevent blood clotting in

intact blood vessels (do not draw the clotting cascade). 79%
1990 Write short notes on plasma proteins
Endocrine & Metabolic Physiology

Physiol-09B11 Describe the role of insulin in fat metabolism. 36%

Physiol-09A15 Describe the formation, fate and role of lactate in energy

production. 19%

Physiol-09A10 Describe the physiological effects of the glucocorticoids. 18%

Physiol-08B10 Describe sepsis and describe the metabolic consequences of

sepsis. 48%

Physiol-08A11 Outline the physiological consequences of diabetic keto

acidosis. 57%

Physiol-07A16 Briefly outline the components of parenteral nutrition,

explaining the rationale for the use of each component. 42%

Physiol-06B16 Describe the physiological consequences of acute

hypoglycaemia. 57%

Physiol-06B14 Compare and contrast the physiological effects of a six hour

fast of fluids and food with a twenty four hour fast in a healthy adult. 33%

Physiol-06A13 Describe the factors which influence metabolic rate 48%

Physiol-04B12 Briefly describe the secretion and functions of renin and

angiotensin 48%

Physiol-03A15 Describe the physiological actions of thyroid hormones. 38%

Physiol-02B13 Briefly describe the functions of renin and angiotensin 46%

Physiol-01B3 Describe the fuel sources used during early and sustained
fasting in man. 51%

Physiol-00B7 Outline the actions of insulin that affect fat metabolism 28%

Physiol-98A7 Outline the actions of insulin that affect fat metabolism 34%

Physiol-96A5 Compare the effects of a six hour fast from fluids and food with
those of a 24 hour fast in a healthy adult.

Physiol-95B8 Outline the physiological consequences of hyperosmolar

diabetic ketoacidosis 39%

1994 Outline the physiological effects of bilateral adrenalectomy

Physiol-93A1 Discuss the physiological consequences of preoperative fasting
(food and water) for 12 hours in a healthy young adult. Include in the
discussion the effects on the body of this food and water deprivation and the
physiological mechanisms that compensate for them 44%

1992 Discuss the role of the hypothalamus in physiological control

mechanisms.

1992 Write short notes on the thyroid hormones

1990 Write short notes on control of blood glucose concentration

Thermoregulation

Physiol-08A10 Define "thermoneutral zone". Briefly explain how the body

regulates temperature when the ambient temperature exceeds the
thermoneutral zone.

Physiol-03A11 Define the "thermoneutral zone". Briefly explain how the body
regulates temperature when the ambient temperature exceeds
thermoneutral zone. 38%

Physiol-01A5 Explain briefly the role of the skin in maintaining a normal body
temperature 71%

Physiol-97B4 Briefly describe the influence of general anaesthesia on

intraoperative temperature regulation. 46%

Physiol-96B2 Explain the role of the skin in maintaining a normal body

temperature. 56%

1996 Define thermoneutral zone. Briefly explain how the body regulates
temperature when the ambient temperature exceeds the thermoneutral
zone.

Physiol-94A1 Discuss temperature regulation in the human, explaining the

physics of heat transfer and how physiological control mechanisms reflexly
use these to maintain constant core temperature as external temperature
changes and insulation is altered. Explain the concept of thermoneutral zone
and how this varies with body size.

Physiol-93A3 Give a brief account of the physiological consequences of

hypothermia
Maternal, Foetal & Neonatal Physiology

Physiol-10B13 Describe the cardiovascular changes in the neonate that occur

at birth.

Physiol-09B10 Compare and contrast the neonatal respiratory system with

the adult. 36%

Physiol-08A12 Describe the physiological changes that occur in respiratory

function during pregnancy. 60%

Physiol-07B14 Describe the cardiovascular changes that occur in the fetus at

birth. 35%

Physiol-07A14 Explain the mechanisms whereby oxygen transfer is facilitated

at the placenta. 59%

Physiol-02B16 Explain the Bohr and Haldane effects in trans-placental gas

exchange (pass:77%)

Physiol-01B4 Describe the physiological changes that occur in respiratory

function during pregnancy. 60%

Physiol-01A4 Indicate the sequence of the physiological changes to the fetal

circulation at birth and briefly describe the mechanisms which account for
these changes. 64%

Physiol-99A1 Explain the Bohr and Haldane effects in trans-placental gas

exchange 42%

Physiol-97B8 Indicate the sequence of the physiological changes to the fetal

circulation at birth and briefly describe the mechanisms that account for
these changes. 46%

Physiol-95A8 Describe the physiological changes that occur in respiratory

function during pregnancy and what significance these changes have to
anaesthesia. 44%

1990 Write short notes on placental oxygen transfer

Gastrointestinal Physiology

Physiol-10B16 Outline the clinical laboratory assessment of liver function.

Physiol-09B16 List the gastric cell types and their secretions and the
functions of these secretions. 72%

Physiol-09A14 Describe the physiological processes that influence the rate of

gastric emptying. 56%

Physiol-08B12 Detail the protective and regulatory roles of the liver. 32%

Physiol-07B15 Discuss how liver function can be assessed by clinical

laboratory testing. 19%

Physiol-06A16 What physiological factors contribute to the competence and

tone of the lower oesophageal sphincter. 58%

Physiol-05A9 Describe the control of gastric emptying. 45%

Physiol-04B13 Describe the functions of the gastric secretions 45%

Physiol-03B16 Outline the mechanism of secretion of hydrochloric acid by the

stomach. Briefly describe how secretion of hydrochloric acid by the stomach
is controlled. 61%

Physiol-02B15 Give a brief account of the mechanisms which regulate gastric

secretion.

Physiol-02A8 Describe the physiological factors that contribute to the

competence and tone of the lower oesophageal sphincter 42%

Physiol-00A6 Describe the control of gastric emptying 50%

Physiol-99B2 What physiological factors contribute to the competence and

tone of the lower oesophageal sphincter. 42%

Physiol-97A4 What factors oppose gastro oesophageal reflux? 35%

1994 Outline the factors determining the rate of flow of bile into the
duodenum

Physio-93** Describe the mechanism of swallowing

1991 Write short notes on the biochemical changes associated with pyloric
stenosis
1991 Write short notes on bilirubin

1990 Write short notes on the cardiac (lower oesophageal) sphincter

Clinical Measurement

Physiol-10B11 Explain the physical principles of ultrasound imaging.

Physiol-10A15 Explain how cardiac output is measured using a thermodilution

technique.

Physiol-08B9 What is humidity and how can it be measured?

Physiol-07B16 Draw the ECG depicting one cardiac cycle for lead II. Label
diagram and give normal values. What is the PR interval and what factors can
affect this?

Physiol-07B11 Explain the principles of ultrasound used in medical imaging.

Physiol-07A15 Describe the effects of resonance and damping on an invasive

arterial blood pressure tracing. 21%

Physiol-06B12 Explain the difference between viscosity and density. Outline

the effects of changes in viscosity and density on the flow of gases and
liquids. 47%

Physiol-06A15 Briefly describe the measurement of pH in a blood sample

using a pH electrode. 49%

Physiol-05A16 Briefly explain the principles of Doppler ultrasound used to

measure cardiac output.

Physiol-04B11 Briefly explain how oximetry can be used to estimate the

partial pressure of oxygen in a blood sample. 31%

Physiol-04A14 Briefly describe the differences between laminar and turbulent

flow. List the factors that increase the probability of turbulent flow. 70%

Physiol-03A13 Briefly describe the principles and sources of error in the

measurement of systemic arterial blood pressure using an automated
oscillometric non-invasive monitor. 81%

Physiol-02B14 Explain the physical principles of ultrasound imaging 25%

Physiol-02A7 Outline the principles of a pneumotachograph. What factors

affect the accuracy of this device? 44%

Physiol-01A3 Briefly describe the measurement of pH in a blood sample using

a pH electrode 52%
Physiol-00B2 Briefly describe the principles and sources of error in the
measurement of arterial blood pressure using an automated oscillometric
non-invasive monitor 70%

Physiol-00A1 Explain how cardiac output is measured using a thermodilution

technique 50%

Physiol-99B7 Describe how the partial pressure of oxygen in a blood sample

is measured using a Clark electrode. 28%

Physiol-99A5 Differentiate between the terms ‘heat’ and ‘temperature’.

Explain briefly the principles of a mercury thermometer, indicating its
advantages and disadvantages. 82%

Physiol-99B1 How does a fall in temperature influence blood gas solubility

and acid base values? 28%

Physiol-98A6 How does a fall in temperature influence blood gas solubility

and acid base values? 21%

Physiol-98B4 Explain the physical principles of ultrasound imaging. 14%

Physiol-98A4 Briefly explain the principles of Doppler ultrasound used to

measure cardiac output using echocardiography. 33%

Physiol-97B6 Briefly describe the differences between laminar and turbulent

flow. List the factors that increase the probability of turbulent flow. 56%

1996 Briefly describe the measurement of blood pressure using an

automated oscillometric non-invasive blood pressure monitor. Briefly outline
the problems of this kind of monitor. 50%

1996 Explain briefly the causes of differences between measured end tidal
and arterial partial pressures of carbon dioxide.

Physiol-95B7 Briefly differentiate between the terms 'heat' and 'temperature'.

Explain briefly the principles of a thermistor indicating its advantages and
disadvantages. 40%

Physiol-95A5 Outline the principles of the pneumotachograph. What factors

affect the accuracy of this device?

1994 Compare 2 methods of measuring humidity

1993 Briefly discuss the factors which influence the measurement of oxygen
saturation using a pulse oximeter

1992 Write short notes on the principles of oscillometry

1992 Write short notes on principles of measurement of end tidal carbon

dioxide tension

1991 Write short notes on the ideal properties of a pressure transducer

1991 Write short notes on exponential functions

1991 Write short notes on measurement of acid base disturbances

1990 Write short notes on the measurement of end tidal carbon dioxide