These PowerPoint presentations are a modified version of the PowerPoints that match the OER textbook Concepts of Biology by Rice University.
Ellie is a struggling college student on the brink of failing her physiology course; not surprisingly, she exhibits many classic signs of stress. However, a visit to the health clinic reveals that she may be suffering from more than just stress. In this interrupted case, students first read about Ellie's signs and symptoms and use a series of guided questions to make predictions about her test results and diagnosis. After Ellie receives her diagnosis, students must then explain the test results based on their knowledge of the function and regulation of the thyroid gland, and investigate various options for treatment. Designed for a two-semester undergraduate anatomy and physiology course, the case could be adapted for use in an undergraduate physiology or endocrinology course.
Based on an actual incident in which dengue virus was transmitted by an accidental needlestick, this case study introduces students to "emerging pathogens" and other concepts in parasitology, immunology, epidemiology, and public policy. Students also read a primary paper and learn about two modern techniques widely used in medical and research settings (i.e., EIA and Taqman RT-PCR). The case is suitable for general education biology, cell biology, microbiology, immunology, and science and public policy courses.