Sustainability and Major Infrastructure Investments (BPLN0029)

This module examines the sustainability dimensions and challenges for major infrastructure investments, arguing that economic growth outcomes alone are an insufficient justification for projects, programmes and strategies. The module examines the dimensions and definitions of sustainability, the problems of cost-benefit assessment and potential for participatory multi-criteria assessment in appraising sustainability outcomes. Case study material includes Crossrail2 and airport expansion in London. The module includes lectures, guest speakers, class presentations and critical debate.

‘Musculoskeletal tissue biology – form and function’ will develop your knowledge and understanding of the molecular composition and...

Musculoskeletal Tissue Biology - Form and Function (SURG0011)

‘Musculoskeletal tissue biology – form and function’ will develop your knowledge and understanding of the molecular composition and organisation of musculoskeletal structures such as bone, cartilage, tendon, ligament, intervertebral disc, meniscus and skeletal muscle. You will learn about the proteins that form the majority of the extracellular matrix in these tissues and how these are organised from the nano-scale to the gross structure. Particular emphasis will be given to the relationship between the composition and organisation of the tissue components and the functional requirements of the structure. You will learn about the specialised cells in musculoskeletal tissues and how they maintain and turnover the extracellular matrix and the role of growth factors and cytokines in cell regulation. An important aspect of musculoskeletal tissues is that they are able to adapt to their mechanical environment and you will learn about the mechanisms that allow cells to sense and respond to mechanical signals. Musculoskeletal tissue structure and function will be discussed in relation to healthy ageing and with respect to adaptation to exercise and immobilisation.