1
Master of Science
Graduate University Study
Programme in Biology
License of the Ministry of Science, Education and Sports; June 16, 2005
DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGY
JOSIP JURAJ STROSSMAYER UNIVERSITY OF OSIJEK
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GENERAL INFORMATION
BIOLOGY
Master of Science Graduate University Study Programme in Biology
Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Department of Biology
Graduate university studies in duration of two years or four semesters – Master of Science in
Biology
Admission requirements: completed undergraduate university study programme in biology
and entrance exam passed
On completing the graduate university study programme, a Master of biology will be able to
enrol in some of the natural sciences postgraduate studies.
The Masters of biology will employ in the variety of scientific institutions, industry
(pharmaceutical, food, chemical, wood, etc.) and sectors that require the knowledge in
biology such as inspection services in the environmental protection. The Master of biology
during their study has gained knowledge and skills that will enable them for the high-quality
and competent expert managing of the national parks, nature parks and nature reserves, ponds,
botanical gardens, zoos, parks in general, and the laboratories of analytical biology, etc. Also,
they are qualified for participation in the scientific and technical teams researching in the field
of natural sciences and biomedical sciences.
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PROGRAMME STRUCTURE
The Master of Science Graduate University Study Programme in Biology requirements
allocate a total of 120 ECTS. The duration is four semesters. The Master’s programme is
divided into obligatory courses, elective courses and Master’s thesis preparation and defence.
I semester –obligatory courses C S L ECTS CODE
Biochemistry 3 30 0 30 5 BM754
Animal Physiology 2 30 0 15 4 BM755
Plant Physiology 2 30 0 30 4 BM756
Virology 15 0 15 3 BM757
Quantitative Biology 2 30 0 15 4 BM972
Marine Ecology 30 15 15 4 BM759
Elective courses 90 6
300 165 15 120 30
II semester –obligatory courses C S L ECTS CODE
Plant Nutrients 30 0 15 4 BM860
Basics of Horticulture 15 0 15 2 BM861
Embryology and Evolution of
Organic Systems 30 0 30 4 BM862
Freshwater Ecology 45 0 45 8 BM863
Molecular Ecotoxicology 30 0 15 4 BM864
Scientific Research Practice 1 30 2 BM865
Elective courses 90 6
300 150 0 150 30
III semester- obligatory courses C S L ECTS CODE
Immunology 15 0 15 3 BM966
Developmental Biology of Plants 30 0 15 3 BM967
Plant Molecular Ecophysiology 15 0 15 3 BM968
Animal Behaviour 30 15 0 3 BM969
Ecology of Terrestrial Habitats 45 0 45 8 BM970
Scientific Research Practice 2 60 2 BM971
Elective courses 90 8
300 135 15 150 30
IV semester ECTS
Preliminary Acceptance of MS thesis 5
Research work 15
MS thesis defence and final exam 10
30
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Elective Courses
Course Seminar Laboratory ECTS CODE
Modelling of Biological
Processes
15 15 0 2 BMZ72
Plant Toxicity Tests 15 0 15 2 BMZ73
Biochemical Mechanisms of
Toxicity
15 0 15 2 BMZ74
Molecular Mechanism of
Oxidative Stress
15 15 2 BMZ75
Enzyme Kinetics 15 0 15 2 BMZ76
Biomolecules in Food 15 15 0 2 BMZ77
Plant Cell and Tissue Culture 15 0 15 2 BMZ78
Genome Evolution 15 15 0 2 BMZ79
Plant Pathoanatomy 15 0 15 2 BMZ80
Supramolecular Structures 15 15 0 2 BMZ81
Plant Microtechnique and
Microscopy
30 0 15 2 BMZ82
Plant Stress Physiology 15 15 15 2 BMZ83
Immunocompetence and
Transplantation
15 0 15 2 BMZ84
Ecotoxicology 15 0 15 2 BMZ87
Entomology 15 15 15 2 BMZ88
Ornithology 15 15 0 2 BMZ89
Biogeographical Inventarisation 15 0 15 2 BBZ54
Underwater Biological Research 0 30 2 BMZ93
Geoinformatics in Biological
Research
15 0 15 2 BMZ94
Molecular Genetic 30 0 15 4 BM758
Dendrology 15 30 0 2 BMZ95
Geology and palaeontology 30 15 0 2 BMZ96
Revitalization and Protection of
Aquatic Ecosystems
15 15 0 2 BMZ97
Avian Metabolism 15 15 0 2 BMZ98
Biochemical Basis
of Drug Action
15 15 0 2 BMZ99
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Biochemistry 3 (BM754) 30 C+0S+30L
ECTS 5
COURSE CONTENT: Catalytic (chymotrypsin, trypsin, elastase, cysteine, aspartyl and
metalloproteases, carbonic anhydrase, restriction enzymes, nucleoside monophosphate kinases) and
regulatory (aspartate transcarbamylase, cooperative oxygen transport by hemoglobin, isozymes,
covalent modification, enzyme activation by proteolytic cleavage, blood clotting process) strategies of
enzymes; membrane channels and pumps (active and passive transport, the transport of ions, second
messengers, specific channels), transmission of signals (transmembrane receptors interacting with
ligands and the G-protein, inositol phosphate pathway, calcium ions as the signal source in the
cytosol, diseases caused by defects in the signal transport); sensory system (detectors of smell, taste,
visible light, sound and touch). Immune system (antibodies with antigen-binding and effector units,
structure of immunoglobulins, binding of specific molecules using hypervariable loop, MHC
complexes, suppression of the immune response to own antigens); molecular motors (members of
NTPase superfamily with P-loop, myosin and actin in muscles, kinesin and dinein in microtubules,
rotary motors in bacteria).
LABORATORY CONTENT: Activity measurement and isoenzyme detection using electrophoresis,
test for the purpose of detection of the lack of necessary factors for blood clotting processes,
measurement of the concentration of antibodies (immunodiffusion, immunoelectrophoresis, ELISA),
isolation and characterization of immunoglobulins from the human blood.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE
Berg, J.M., Tymoczko, J.L., Stryer, L. (2012). Biochemistry. Freeman & Comp., New York
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Voet, D., Voet, J.G. (2011). Biochemistry, 4th ed. J.Wiley & Sons Inc., New York.
Nelson, D.L., Cox, M.M. (2012). Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry, 6th ed. W.H. Freeman, New
York
Garrett, R.G., Grisham, C.M. (2010). Biochemistry. Brooks/Cole, Cengage Learning, Boston, USA.
Devlin, T.M. (ed.) (2010). Textbook of Biochemistry with Clinical Correlations, 7th ed.J.Wiley &
Sons Inc., New York.
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Animal Physiology 2 (BM755) 30C+0S+15L
ECTS 4
COURSE CONTENT: Introduction and review of the basic physiological concepts; adaptation
boundaries; restrictive and expansive adaptation; physical interactions between organisms and
environment; radiation, conduction, convection and evaporation; scaling the metabolism and thermal
interactions; temperature adaptations: poikilothermy and ectothermy; homeothermy and endothermy;
matter exchange with the environment; osmotic exchange in the aquatic and transitional animals;
water and sodium chloride exchange in the terrestrial animals; gas exchange adaptations; energetics
of locomotion; physiological energetic balance; environmental periodicity and physiological changes;
hibernation physiology; diversity of feeding and digestion; relation between morphology and
physiology of the alimentary system and the feeding method and the type of food; physiological
problems related to the herbivores; fermentation in the alimentary canal; distribution of the secondary
plant components in the organism and their effect on the physiological processes; exophysiology and
physiology of the extra-terrestrial biological systems; physiology of the high and low air and water
pressure; environmental and physiological factors that regulate the pheromone production.
LABORATORY CONTENT: Measuring of the basal metabolic rate; influence of the air pressure on
the behaviour of fish; hibernation; biological metabolic markers; ecophysiological markers;
fermentation; physiology of high pressure; physiology of low pressure; temperature adaptation;
adaptation on the environmental dynamics; insect pheromones and their analogues; mammalian
pheromones. Case studies.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Bradshaw, D. (2003). Vertebrate Ecophysiology, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge.
Willmer, P., Stone, G., Johnston, I. (2004). Environmental Physiology of Animals. Wiley-Blackwell.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Paul, J. R. (2001): Physiologie der Tiere. Thieme, Stuttgart.
McNab B.K. (2002). The Physiological Ecology of Vertebrates. Cornell University Press, London.
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Plant Physiology 2 (BM756) 30C+0S+30L
ECTS 4
COURSE CONTENT: Photosynthesis (C3, C4 and CAM plants). Photosynthesis and respiration.
Heterotrophic nutrition. Cell exchange regulation: inner cell regulation (gene and enzyme activity
regulations). Intercellular regulations: plant growth regulators – auxins, gibberellins, cytokinins,
ethylene and abscisic acid (chemical composition, biosynthesis, transport, physiological effects and
their mechanism). Growth, differentiation and development: levels of differentiation, cause of cell
differentiation, plant aging. Regulations of the ecological factors: the effect of light, temperature and
daylight on the growth and plant development. Physiology of the plant organelles and/or organs’
movements.
LABORATORY CONTENT: Starch phosphorylase. The enzymatic degradation of the glycoside. The
activity of saharase (invertase). The effect of gibberellin (GA3) on α-amylase synthesis. The effect of
kinetin on leaf senescence. The effect of auxin on the growth elongation of Phaseolus sp. seedlings.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Pevalek-Kozlina, B. (2003). Fiziologija bilja. Profil, Zagreb.
Teiz, L., Zeiger, E. (2010). Plant Physiology. Sinauer Associates, Inc.,
Sunderland, Massachusetts.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Berg, J.M., Tymoczko, J.L., Strayer, L. (2013). Biokemija. Školska knjiga, Zagreb
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Virology (BM757) 15C+0S+15L
ECTS 3
COURSE OBJECTIVES: Provide knowledge about the most important viral families in order to
improve the understanding of the diversity and importance of the viruses (viri). Acquire basic skills
and knowledge required for work in virology laboratory.
COURSE CONTENT: Viral vaccines, immunological response and interferon. Biological control of
the viral diseases. Evolution and ecology of viruses. Epidemiology of viral diseases. Molecular
methods in the detection and identification of viruses and subviral agents. Viruses of the marine
ecosystems. Application of viruses in the gene therapy.
LABORATORY CONTENT: Laboratory diagnostics of the selected viruses.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Presečki, V. (2003). Virologija. Medicinska naklada, Zagreb.
All the virology at www.virology.net
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
The relevant scientific papers in virology.
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Quantitative Biology 2 (BM972) 30C+0S+15L
ECTS 4
COURSE CONTENT: Experimental design in the laboratory conditions and in the environment.
Sampling. Monitoring. Census methods. Biodiversity indices. Parametric statistics. Nonparametric
statistics. Multivariate methods. Cluster analysis. Interpretation of the results from the statistical
analyses. Repeated measures. Monte Carly simulation. Basics of Bayesian statistics. Statistical
models. Spatial statistics. Quantification methods.
LABORATORY CONTENT: Principles of the experimental design. Primary data analysis. Statistical
data analysis. Simulations. Data quantification. Statistical and mathematical models. Applied spatial
statistics. Census methods.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written, oral and practical
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Zar, J.H. (2009). Biostatistical Analysis. Prentice Hall, (5th Edition).
Britton, F.N. (2004). Essential Mathematical Biology (2nd Edition). Springer Verlag, London.
Šošić, I. (2004). Primijenjena statistika. Školska knjiga, Zagreb.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Quinn, P.G. (2002). Experimental Design and Data Analysis for Biologists. Cambridge
University Press, Cambridge.
Sutherland, W.J. (2006). Ecological Census Techniques: A Handbook. Cambridge
University Press, Cambridge (2nd Edition).
Dalgaard, P. (2008). Introductory Statistics with R. Springer, New York (2nd Edition).
Babak, S. (2012). Biostatistics with R: An Introduction to Statistics Through Biological Data.
Springer, New York.
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Marine Ecology (BM759) 30C+15S+15L
ECTS 4
COURSE CONTENT: Introductory lecture –course content, literature and students obligations.
Ocean characteristics as three-dimensional environment. Primary production. Secondary production
and organic matter degradation. Epipelagic zone. Intertidal zone. Estuaries and salt swamps.
Mangrove forest. Kelp forest. Coral reefs. Deep sea organisms. Polar seas. Fun ctioning of the marine
ecosystem. Fisheries and human impact on the marine ecosystems. Conservation.
SEMINAR CONTENT: Microbial ecology of oceans. Biogeochemical carbon cycle in the ocean.
Biogeochemical nitrogen cycle in the ocean. Ecology of the hydrothermal vents.
LABORATORY CONTENT: Examining effects of the primary production, predator impact and
influence of the key-stone species with computer models.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Kaiser, M.J., Attrill, M.J., Jennings, S., Thomas, D.N., et al. (2005). Marine Ecology: processes,
systems, and impacts. Oxford University Press, Oxford.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Kirchman, D.L. (2000). Microbial ecology of the Oceans. Wiley, New York.
Barnes, R.S.K., Hughes, R.N. (1999). Introduction to Marine Ecology. Wiley-Blackwell, New York.
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Plant Nutrients (BM860) 30C+0S+15L
ECTS 4
COURSE CONTENT: Plant tissue analysis. Nutrient assimilation and transport in plants. Effect of
the soil pH on the plant growth. The role and the significance of the mineral elements in plants.
Assimilation of the nitrogen, nitrates, nitrogen fixation, assimilation of amonium, sulphur, phosphate,
cations. Solute transport. Carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. Secondary metabolites. Laboratory
methods for the plant cultivation. Symptoms of the nutrient deficiency. Nutrients and eutrophication
of the freshwater ecosystem.
LABORATORY CONTENT: Determining the presence of individual substances in the plant cells
and tissues (calcium, phosphate, nitrate; iron and ammonium ions; ascorbic acid; carbohydrate, inulin;
and proteins). Excretion of the root acids. Identifying symptoms of the deficiency or excess of certain
elements of the plant nutrition in the hydroponic growing conditions.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Pevalek-Kozlina, B. (2003). Fiziologija bilja. Profil, Zagreb.
Taiz, L., Zieger, E. (2010). Plant Physiology. Sinauer Associates, Inc., U.S.A.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Maathius, F.J.M. (2013). Plant Mineral Nutrients: Methods and Protocol. Springer, London
Benton, J.J. Jr. (2005). Hydroponics. A Practical Guide for the Soilless Grower (second edition). CRC
Press.
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Basics in Horticulture (BM861) 15C+0S+15L
ECTS 2
COURSE CONTENT: Classification and characteristics of the flower types (annual, biennia,
perennials, water plants, creepers). The basics of the vegetable crops growing and the most important
vegetable representatives. Reproduction of the vegetable and flower cultures. In vitro propagation
methods. Woody plant species and park architecture.
LABORATORY CONTENT: Basic methods of the reproduction in plants. In vitro propagation
methods. The architecture of the gardens and parks.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Idžojtić, M. (2009). Dendrology-leaf. Sveučilište u Zagrebu, Šumarski fakultet, Zagreb.
Idžojtić, M. (2013). Dendrology - flower, cone, fruit, seed. Sveučilište u Zagrebu, Šumarski fakultet,
Zagreb.
Parađiković, N. (2009). Basic and special vegetable growing. Poljoprivredni fakultet, Osijek.
Parađiković, N. (1994). Greenhouses. Nova zemlja, Osijek.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Hartmann, T.H, Kester, D.E, Davies, Jr. F.T, Geneve, R.L. (2011). Hartmann and Kester’s plant
propagation: principles and practice, 8th ed. Prentice Hall, USA.
Pittenger, D.R.(2002). California Master Gardener Handbook. University of California, USA.
Healthy garden - organic, natural and free of chemicals (2010). Mozaik knjiga, Zagreb.
Scientific papers
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Embryology and Evolution of Organic Systems (BM862) 30C+0S+30L
ECTS 4
COURSE CONTENT: History of embryology; structure of the germinal cells and meiosis;
fertilization, cleavage, types of blastulas and gastrulas; neurulation; control of embryogenesis;
embryonic development of the invertebrates, vertebrates and humans; embryonic origin and
development of the organic systems; evolution and adaptations of the invertebrate’s and vertebrate’s
organic systems.
LABORATORY CONTENT:
Cells – characteristics, role and their importance
Processes of embryogenesis on the example of sea urchins
Processes of embryogenesis on the example of poultry
Processes of embryogenesis on the example of frogs
Regeneration
Development extremes
Cloning
Human pregnancy and early development
EXAMINATION METHODS: seminar, written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Gilbert, S.F. (2003). Developmental Biology. 7th ed. Sinauer Associates, Inc.
Sadler, T.W. (2008). Langmanova medicinska embriologija. Školska knjiga, Zagreb.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Ruppert, E.E., Fox, R.S., Barnes, R.D. (2004). Invertebrate Zoology. A functional evolutionary
approach. 7th ed. Thomson Brooks/Cole.
Kardong, K.V. (1994). Vertebrates: Comparative anatomy, function, evolution. Brown Co., USA.
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Freshwater Ecology (BM863) 45C+0S+45L
ECTS 8
COURSE CONTENT: The freshwater ecosystems – typology and worldwide distribution. Water as a
life medium. Water cycle. Nutrients cycle. The aquatic communities – phytoplankton, zooplankton,
periphyton, benthos. Adaptation of the organisms to different life conditions. Energy transfer and
trophic interactions. Pollution and eutrophication of the aquatic ecosystems. Climate and
environmental changes. Protection and revitalization of the freshwater habitats and wildlife.
LABORATORY CONTENT: Field work: sampling techniques for the analyses of water, sediment
and biocenosis. Laboratory analyses: physico -chemical properties of the water and sediment.
Qualitative and quantitative analyses of the biocenosis – phytoplankton; zooplankton; benthos;
periphyton. Saprobiological analyses. Ecological status of the freshwater habitats. Statistical analyses.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Wetzel, R. G. (2001). Limnology – Lake and River Ecosystems. 3rd ed. (selected chapters). Academic
Press, San Diego.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
APHA (2001). Standard methods for examination of water and wastewater (selected chapters). Amer.
Public Health Assoc. 20th ed. Washington.
Engelhart, W. (2003). Was lebt in Tümpel, Bach und Weiher? (selected chapters). Kosmos, Stuttgart.
Streble, H., Krauter, D. (2002): Das Leben im Wassertropfen (selected chapters). Kosmos, Stuttgart.
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Molecular Ecotoxicology (BM864) 30C+0S+15L
ECTS 4
COURSE CONTENT: Pollution and contamination; Xenobiotics; mechanisms of the xenobiotics
entering the biological systems; first pass effect; defence mechanisms; reactions of biotransformation;
first phase of the xenobiotics biotransformation; second phase of the xenobiotics biotransformation;
third phase of the xenobiotic biotransformation; elimination of the xenobiotics; xenobiotic induction
and inhibition; hormonal disruptors; xenoandrogens; xenoestrogens; vitelogenin; oxidative stress as a
result of the physical factors and the exposure to the xenobiotics; xenobiotics effects on the metabolic
pathways; molecular biomarkers; p-glycoprotein and MXR; biomarkers of the exposure and effect;
xenobiotic effect on the markers of the metabolic activity and health condition.
LABORATORY CONTENT: Xenobiotic exposure methods; the in vivo test; the primary cell culture
tests; preparation of the postmitochondrial and microsomal fraction; inhibition of the cholinesterase as
a marker of the effect of the organophosphates, carbamates and detergents; total cytochrome P450
and ethoxyresorufin-o-deethylase induction as a marker of the exposure to polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons, glutathione concentration; catalase and glutathione peroxidase activity as a marker of
the oxidative stress; metabolic markers; metallothionein concentration as a marker of the exposure to
the heavy metals.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Hoffman, D.J., Rattner, B.A., Burton, G.A., Cairns, J. (2003). Handbook of ecotoxicology. CRC Press
LLC.
Newman, M.C., Clements, W.H. (2008). Ecotoxicology. A comprehensive treatment. CRC Press,
Taylor & Francis Group.
Newman, M.C. (2009). Fundamentals of Ecotoxicology. CRC Press.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Mumtaz, M. (2010). Principles and practice of mixtures toxicology. WILEY-VHC.
Robinson, L., Thorn, I. (2005). Toxicology and Ecotoxicology in Chemical Safety Assessment.
Blackwell Publishing Ltd.
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Scientific Research Practice 1 (BM865) 0C+0S+30L
ECTS 2
FIELD WORK CONTENT: Preparations for the field work (appropriate clothing and footwear,
security measures and safety, keeping a field journal). Fieldwork: exploring and mastering the
methods of sampling, sample collection, conservation and labelling of samples.
LABORATORY WORK CONTENT: Introduction to laboratory routines. Keeping laboratory
journal. Introducing and learning about the laboratory techniques. Participation in the laboratory
work. Independent work on the selected tasks.
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Immunology (BM966) 15C+0S+15L
ECTS 3
COURSE CONTENT: Properties and overview of the immune response, cells and tissues of the
immune system, innate immunity, antibodies and antigens, major histocompatibility complex
molecules and antigen presentation, immune receptors and signal transduction, lymphocyte
development, activation of the T lymphocytes, effector mechanisms of the cell-mediated and humoral
immunity, immunological tolerance and autoimmunity, immunity to tumours, hypersensitivity
disorders.
LABORATORY CONTENT: Immunization of experimental animals. The lymphatic system of the
rodents. Basic immunohistochemical methods. Isolation of the antibodies. ELISA. Western blotting.
Isolation of the lymphocytes. Lymphocyte culture. Immunological reactions. Immunosuppression.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Abbas, A.K., Lichtman, A.H., Pillai, S. (2012). Cellular and Molecular Immunology. Elsevier
Saunders, USA.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Delves, P.J., Martin, S.J., Burton, D.R., Roitt, I.M. (2011). Roitt's Essential Immunology. Wiley-
Blackwell, United Kingdom.
Janeway, A.C. (ed.) (2001). Immunobiology. Garland Publishing, New York.
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Developmental Biology of Plants (BM967) 30C+0S+15L
ECTS 3
COURSE CONTENT: Life cycle of the seed plants and gametogenesis: microsporogenesis and
megasporogenesis. Fertilisation. Embriogenesis. Postembrionic development. Germination. Cell and
tissue differentiation during the development of the vegetative and generative organs. Molecular
mechanisms of the plant growth regulators action: auxins, cytokinins, apscisic acid, jasmonic acid,
brassinollides, oligosaccharides, geibberelines and ethylene. The review of the methods employed in
the plant development investigation: anatomical methods, molecular analysis of the gene transcripts
and proteins, physiological methods.
LABORATORY CONTENT: During the practice students are going to study some of the selected
topics on their own and use appropriate methods in molecular biology (protein isolation, SDS
electrophoresis, Western blotting, immunodetection - chemiluminescence), while other topics will be
discussed and learned through the oral presentations of the other students.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Raghavan, V. (2000). Developmental Biology of Flowering Plants. Springer-Verlag, New York,
Berlin, Heidelberg.
Pevalek-Kozlina, B. (2003). Fiziologija bilja. Profil, Zagreb.
Buchanan, B.B., Gruissem, W., Jones, R.L. (2006). Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Plants.
American Society of Plant Physiologists, Rockville, Maryland.
Lepeduš, H., Cesar, V. (2010). Osnove biljne histologije i anatomije vegetativnih organa. Sveučilište
J. J. Strossmayera u Osijeku, Odjel za biologiju, Osijek.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Taiz, L., Zeiger. E. (2010). Plant Physiology. 5th edition. Sinauer Associates Inc., Publishers,
Sunderland, Massachusetts.
Biswal, B., Krupinska, K., Biswal, U.C. (2013). Plastid Development in Leaves during Growth and
Senescence. Springer Science + Business Media Dordrecht.
Nooden, L.D. (2004) Plant Cell Death Processes. Elsevier Academic Press, San Diego.
Ambriović Ristov, A. (2007). Metode u molekularnoj biologiji. Institut Ruđer Bošković, Zagreb.
Additional literature will be selected from the most recent scientific publications that cover particular
areas, depending on the individual interests of a student.
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Plant Molecular Ecophysiology (BM968) 15C+0S+15L
ECTS 3
COURSE CONTENT: The review of the biotic and abiotic ecological factors; molecular mechanisms
of the signal perception in the plant cell and physiological response; changes of gene expression
caused by changes of temperature, light or by drought and anoxia; the effect of the air pollutants on
the plant physiological status: sulphur dioxide, NOx, ozone; plant tolerance to heavy metals;
molecular biology of the oxidative stress in plants; function and regulation of the enzymes in
Halliwell-Asada cycle; the effect of the abiotic factors (light, temperature, herbicides, heavy metals)
on the organization and function of the photosynthetic apparatus.
LABORATORY CONTENT: During the course students study some of the topics on their own.
EXAMINATION METHOD: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Heldt, H.W. (1999) Plant Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Oxford University Press Inc., New
York, Oxford.
Taiz, L., Zeiger, E., (1998) Plant Physiology. Sinauer Associates, Inc., Publishers, Sunderland,
Massachusetts.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Aducci, P. (1997). Signal Transduction in Plants. BirkhäuserVerlag, Switzerland.
Basra, A.S. (1993) Stress-Induced Gene Expression in Plants. Harwood Academic Publishers,
Switzerland.
Scandalios, J.G. (1997) Oxidative Stress and the Molecular Biology of Antioxidant Defenses. Cold
Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, New York.
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Animal Behaviour (BM969) 30C+15S+0L
ECTS 3
COURSE CONTENT: An introduction to the animal behaviour (what is behaviour, the history of the
study of animal behaviour, proximate and ultimate causes). Mechanisms of behaviour: the role of the
nervous system (innate vs. learned behaviour, imprinting). The motivation and organization of
behaviour (the internal and external mechanisms that control animal behaviour). The development of
behaviour (natural selection, learning). Communication (living in groups, social communities,
ritualization). Foraging behaviour (optimal foraging theory, decision-making). Avoiding predators
(primary and secondary strategy). Reproductive behaviour (sexual selection, conflicts, mating
systems, parental care and altruism). Human behaviour.
LABORATORY CONTENT: -
SEMINAR CONTENT: During the seminar each student focuses on one particular animal behaviour
topic/research paper and presents it to the other students.
EXAMINATION METHOD: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Alcock, J. (2009). Animal Behavior: An Evolutionary Approach. 9th ed, Sinauer Associates,
Sunderland.
Goodenough, J., McGuire, B., Wallace, R.A. (2001). Perspectives of Animal Behavior. John Wiley
and sons, Inc. New York, Brisbane, Toronto.
McFarland, D. (1996). Animal behaviour. Addison Wesley Longman Limited, Edinburgh.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Halliday, T. (1994). Animal Behaviour. A Blanford book, London.
Miller, S., Harley, J.P. (1996). Zoology. WCB McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc , Boston.
Wilson, E.O. (2000). Sociobiology, The new synthesis. 25th ed. The President and Fellows of Harvard
College.
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Ecology of Terrestrial Habitats (BM970) 45C+0S+45L
ECTS 8
COURSE CONTENT: What is a terrestrial habitat and what organisms live there. The ecological
factors that influence life of the organisms in a terrestrial habitat. Solar energy on the Earth surface.
Global atmospheric circulation. Macroclimate – parameters, their spatial and temporal variability.
Water cycle. Lithology and relief as the environmental factors. Topoclimate. Soil as a precondition
for the terrestrial habitat formation and maintenance. Pedosphere, pedogenesis, pedosystematics –
basic terms. Biotic factors. Life strategies of the terrestrial organisms. Matter and energy cycles in a
terrestrial habitat. Basic types of the terrestrial habitats (biomes) and their correlation with the
macroclimate. Spatial distribution of the biomes on the Earth and their dynamics in time (global
paleoecological aspect). Bioclimatic zones of Europe and Croatia. Edaphic factors and
biogeocoenosis differentiation within the bioclimatic zones. Spatio-temporal relation between the soil
and vegetation. Classification of the terrestrial habitats. Overview of the particular habitat types (on
the global, regional and local level): 1) dominant abiotic factors, 2) soil and vegetation, 3) typical
organism representatives and their adaptations to the habitat and interactions with the habitat, 4)
genesis and ecological stability, 5) anthropogenic influence. Terrestrial habitat boundaries.
Environmental gradients and intermediar between the terrestrial habitats and between the terrestrial
and marine/freshwater habitats. Anthropogenic terrestrial habitats. Levels of bioecological details in
the terrestrial habitat research. Overview of the research themes and methods. Practical examples.
LABORATORY CONTENT : Recognition of the major types of the terrestrial habitats on the global
level (biomes), recognition of the terrestrial habitats in Croatia, determination of the expected habitat
type for the set environmental factors (and vice versa), Overview of the different sampling methods
for the particular organism groups in different habitats, qualitative and quantitative field data analysis.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Chapin, F.S. III, Matson, P., Mooney, H.A., Chapin M.C. (2002). Principles of Terrestrial Ecosystem
Ecology. Springer-Verlag, New York.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Archibold, O.W. (1995). Ecology of World Vegetation. Chapman & Hall, London, New York.
Bailey, R.G. (2009). Ecosystem Geography: From Ecoregions to Sites. Springer-Verlag, New York,
Dordrecht, Heidelberg, London.
Ćirić, M. (1986). Pedologija, Svjetlost, Sarajevo.
Gobat, J.-M., Aragno, M., Matthey, W. (2004). The Living Soil – Fundamentals of Soil Science and
Soil Biology. Science Publishers Inc., Endfield USA, Plymouth UK.
Herak. M. (1990). Geologija, Školska knjiga, Zagreb.
Oldeman, R.A.A. (1990). Forests: Elements of Silvology, Springer-Verlag, Berlin.
Penzar I., Penzar B. (1989). Agroklimatologija, Školska knjiga, Zagreb.
Topić, J., Vukelić, J. (2009). Priručnik za određivanje kopnenih staništa u Hrvatskoj prema Direktivi
o staništima EU. Državni zavod za zaštitu prirode, Zagreb.
23
Scientific Research Practice 2 (BM971) 0C+0S+60L
ECTS 2
FIELD WORK CONTENT: Preparations for the field work (appropriate clothing and footwear,
security measures and safety, keeping a field journal). Fieldwork: exploring and mastering the
methods of sampling, sample collection, conservation and labelling of samples.
LABORATORY WORK CONTENT: Introduction to the laboratory routines. Keeping a laboratory
journal. Introducing and learning about the laboratory techniques. Participation in the laboratory
work. Independent work on selected tasks.
25
Modelling of Biological Processes (BMZ72) 15C+15S+0L
ECTS 2
COURSE CONTENT: Discrete dynamical systems; compartmental analysis and differential
equations; logistic models; recursive functions; stochastic processes; interpreting stochastic data;
creating stochastic models; model validation; a human population model; a review of matrix algebra;
the eigenvalue and eigenvector analysis; empirical models; interpolation; the statistics of simple
regression; continuous models; geometric analysis and non-linear equations; continuous stochastic
processes.
SEMINAR CONTENT: During this seminar the students create models on the basis of specific
research examples, i.e. on real data.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Mooney, D., Randall, S. (1999). A Course in Mathematical Modeling. Dover Publications, Mineola
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Bender, A.E. (2000). An Introduction to Mathematical Modeling. Dover Publications, Mineola.
Britton, F.N. (2003) Essential Mathematical Biology. Springer Verlag, London.
26
Plant Toxicity Tests (BMZ73) 15C+0S+15L
ECTS 2
COURSE CONTENT: Test types; test organisms; principles of the laboratory toxicity testing;
individual display of the metal and xenobiotic toxicity of the algae, which require special attention in
their toxicity and/or representation in industry and environment; the source and the amount of the
xenobiotics in the water;
Duckweed test – monitoring of the plant growth (fresh and dry weight, total surface of the plants); the
photosynthetic pigments content and the amount of proteins to determine toxicity.
LABORATORY CONTENT: Duckweed test; determination of the metal toxicity and xenobiotics to
Lemna minor and Lemna gibba (photosynthetic pigment content and inhibition of the growth);
statistical analysis of the obtained results, evaluation and comparison with the literature data.
EXAMINATION METHOD: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Rai, L. C., Gaur, J.P. &Soeder, C.J. (1994). Algae and water polution. E. Schweizerbart, Stuttgart.
OECD guidelines for the testing of chemicals – Revised proposal for a new guideline 221 Lemnasp.
Growth Inhibition Test (http://www.oecd.org/dataoecd/16/51/1948054.pdf).
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Naumann, B., Eberius, M., Appenroth, K.J. (2007). Growth rate based dose – response relationships
and EC-values of ten heavy metals using the duckweed growth inhibition test (ISO 20079) with
Lemnaminor L. clone St. Journal of Plant Physiology. Volume 164, Issue 12
(http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0176161706003154).
Landolt, E. (1986). The family of Lemnaceae – a monographic study (Vol. 1 and 2).
Veroffentlichungen des Geobotanischen Institutes der Edig. tech. Hochschule, StiftungRübel. Zürich.
http:/www.mobot.org/jwcross/duckweed/education.htm.
27
Biochemical Mechanisms of Toxicity (BMZ74) 15C+0S+15L
ECTS 2
COURSE CONTENT: The basic properties of the biotransforming enzymes; biotransformation and
metabolism; stereochemical approach in the xenobiotic biotransformation; the first and the second
biotransformation phase; nomenclature of the enzymes included in biotransformation; distribution of
the biotransformation enzymes in the organisms; reactions of hydrolyses; reduction reactions;
oxidation reactions; xenobiotics activation; P450 knockout mouse; glucuronic acid conjugation;
sulfation reactions; reactions of methylation; reactions of acetylation; conjugation with aminoacids;
conjugation with glutathione; rhodaneses; reaction of phosphorylation; QSAR.
SEMINAR CONTENT: During this seminar the students study the specific examples from the
toxicological practice.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Klaassen, D. C. (2008). Casarett & Doull's Toxicology: The Basic Science of Poisons. McGraw-Hill,
New York.
Timbrell, J.A. (2008). Principles of Biochemical Toxicology. CRC press.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Stenersen, J. (2004). Chemical Pesticides: Mode of Action and Toxicology. CRC press.
28
Molecular Mechanism of Oxidative Stress (BMZ75) 15C+0S+15L
ECTS 2
COURSE CONTENT: Oxygen and reactive oxygen species. Damaging of the biomolecules and the
cell structures in the conditions of the oxidative stress. Oxidants and cell signalling. Non-enzymatic
antioxidants: ascorbic acid, glutathione, vitamin E, carotenoids, phenolics. Antioxidative enzymes:
catalase, peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione reductase and monodehydroascorbate
reductase. The Halliwell-Asada cycle.
LABORATORY CONTENT: Determination of the activities of the antioxidative enzymes.
Determination of α-tocopherol by the thin-layer chromatography. Determination of the photosynthetic
pigments concentration. Photosystem II efficiency measurement by the saturating pulse method.
Experimental induction of the oxidative stress.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Bradamante, V., Lacković, Z. (eds.) (2001). Oksidativni stres i djelotvornost antioksidansa.
Medicinska naklada, Zagreb
Buchanan, B.B., Gruissem, W., Jones, R.L. (2006). Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Plants.
American Society of Plant Physiologists, Rockville, Maryland.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Scandalios, J. G. (1997). Oxidative Stress and the Molecular Biology of Antioxidant Defenses. Cold
Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, New York.
Taiz, L., Zeiger. E. (2010). Plant Physiology. 5th edition. Sinauer Associates Inc., Publishers,
Sunderland, Massachusetts.
Inze, D., Van Montagu, M. (eds.) (2002), Oxidative stress in Plants. Taylor & Francis, London, New
York.
Ambriović Ristov, A. (2007). Metode u molekularnoj biologiji. Institut Ruđer Bošković, Zagreb.
Additional literature will be selected from the most recent scientific publications that cover particular
areas, depending on the individual interests of students.
29
Enzyme Kinetics (BMZ76) 15C+0S+15L
ECTS 2
COURSE CONTENT: The basic principles of the enzyme catalysis; the basic equations of the
enzyme kinetics; the phase of the enzymatic reaction; the Michealis-Menten model; determination of
the kinetic constants Km and Vmax; speed measurement of the enzymatic reactions; the influence of
pH on the enzymatic catalysis; types of inhibition of the enzyme reactions; the effect of the inhibitors
on the kinetic constant; allosteric enzyme kinetics, stereochemistry of the enzyme reactions; kinetics
of the enzyme under physiological systems; regulation of the metabolic processes by the kinetics of
some enzymes.
LABORATORY CONTENT: The initial velocity of the selected enzyme reactions in the presence of
the inhibitors is measured and compared with the uninhibited velocity. The kinetic constants of the
inhibited and uninhibited enzyme will be calculated, and used to conclude about the type of the
inhibition, planning of the enzyme assays; determining the optimum conditions for the enzymes of the
physiological systems.
SEMINAR CONTENT: -
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Nelson, D. L., Cox, M. M. (2013). Lehninger principles of biochemistry. W. H. Freeman & Co., 6th
ed. New York.
Cornish-Bowden, A. (2004). Fundamentals of Enzyme Kinetics, revised edition. Portland Press,
London.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Review articles and scientific monographs.
30
Biomolecules in Food (BMZ77) 15C+15S+0L
ECTS 2
COURSE CONTENT: Introduction. Reaction between some food components (carbohydrates, lipids,
proteins, enzymes, vitamins, colour and flavours, inorganic compounds). Biomolecular interactions;
biological role of the individual active molecules in foods; secondary metabolites of the plants;
damage caused by the action of free radicals; antioxidant properties of the natural metabolites;
assessment of the protective role of the phytochemicals; oxidative stress and disease; the role of the
diet in the prevention of various diseases; the role of the diet in the gene expression. Polyphenols.
Terpenes. Hydrococolloids. Glucosinolates. Phospholipids. Vitamins.
LABORATORY CONTENT: -
SEMINAR CONTENT: Written report and presentation on chosen topic.
EXAMINATION METHODS: oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Belitz, H.D., Grosch, W., Schieberle, P. (2004). Food Chemistry. Springer-Verlag, Berlin.
Fennema, O.R. (1996). Food Chemistry. Marcel Dekker, Inc, New York
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Watson, D. (1998). Natural Toxicants in Food. Sheffield Academic Press, Sheffield.
Rice-Evans, C.A., Packer, L. (2003). Flavonoids in Health and Disease. Marcel Dekker, Inc, New
York.
31
Plant Cell and Tissue Culture (BMZ78) 15C+0S+15L
ECTS 2
COURSE CONTENT: Organogenesis and regeneration via in vitro plant cell, tissue and organ
culture. Starting up the culture: media composition, surface sterilization of the initial plant material,
impact of the physical factors on the culture growth, explants selection, subculturing. Callus culture.
Structural, physiological, biochemical and genetic aspects of organogenesis in vitro. Plant
regeneration. Somatic embryogenesis. Protoplast cultures. Impact of the plant cell and tissue culture
on genetic engineering and breeding systems: genetically transformed plants, vegetative
micropropagation. Impact in biotechnology: clone production, bioproduction of the different
substances.
LABORATORY CONTENT: Starting up the culture: media composition, explants selection, surface
sterilization of the initial plant material, manipulation in the sterile chamber, callus production,
subculturing. In vitro regeneration.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Jelaska, S. (1994). Kultura biljnih stanica i tkiva. Školska knjiga, Zagreb.
Ambriović Ristov, A. (2007). Metode u molekularnoj biologiji. Institut Ruđer Bošković, Zagreb.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Evans, D.A., Sharpe, W.R., Ammirato, P.V.,Yamada, Y. (1983). Handbook of plant cell culture.
Volume 1: Techniques for propagation and breeding. MacMillan Publishing Co., New York –
London.
Sharpe, W.R., Evans, D.E.,, Ammirato, P.V., Yamada, Y. (1984). Handbook of plant cell culture.
Volume 2: Crop species. MacMillan Publishing Co., New York – London.
Ammirato, P.V., Evans, D.E., Sharpe, W.R., Yamada, Y. (1984). Handbook of plant cell culture.
Volume 3: Crop species. MacMillan Publishing Co., New York – London.
Additional literature will be selected from the most recent scientific publications that cover particular
areas, depending on the individual interests of students.
32
Genome Evolution (BMZ79) 15C+15S+0L
ECTS 2
COURSE CONTENT: Genome size in different organisms and evolution. The number of
chromosomes in eukaryotes, noncoding DNA and genome size. Genetic control of the cell size.
Experimentally induced changes in the genome size. Natural selection and genome size.
Mitochondrial DNA. Evolution of the plastid DNA. B-chromosomes. Sex chromosomes. Moderated
repetitive DNA. Chromosome elimination. Phylogenetic analysis.
SEMINAR CONTENT: Students choose topics of their interest, prepare presentations and present
them to the other students.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Ryan Gregory, T.R. (2007). The Evolution of the Genome. Elsevier Academic Press.
Cooper, G.M., Hausman, R.E. (2013). The Cell: A Molecular Approach. Sinauer Associates, Inc.,
Sunderland, Massachusetts USA.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Alberts, B., Bray, D., Lewis, J., Raff, M., Roberts, K., Watson, J.D. (2007). Molecular biology of the
cell. 5th edition. Garland Publishing, Inc., New York – London.
Ambriović Ristov, A. et al. (2007). Metode u molekularnoj biologiji, IRB, Zagreb.
33
Plant Pathoanatomy (BMZ80) 15C+0S+15L
ECTS 2
COURSE CONTENT: Plant anatomy. Abiotic and biotic factors as causes of the pathological
changes in the cell structure and plant tissues. Pathological changes in the cell structures (cell wall,
biomembranes, cytoskeleton, ribosomes) and organelles (nucleus, mitochondria, plastids,
endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, vacuoles, peroxisomes and glyoxysomes). Pathological
changes in plant tissues.
LABORATORY CONTENT: Techniques in making temporary and permanent microscopic
preparations.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Agrios, G. N. (2005). Plant Pathology, Fifth edition. Academic Press, New York.
Trigiano, R. N., Windham, M. T., Windham, A. S. (eds) (2006). Plant Pathology: Concepts and
Laboratory Exercises. Taylor & Francis.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Bačić, T. (2003). Morfologija i anatomija bilja. Sveučilište Josipa Jurja Strossmayera u Osijeku,
Pedagoški fakultet, Osijek.
Lepeduš, H., Cesar, V. (2010). Osnove biljne histologije i anatomije vegetativnih organa. Sveučilište
Josipa Jurja Strossmayera u Osijeku, Odjel za biologiju, Osijek.
Žuna Pfeiffer, T., Krstin, LJ., Štolfa, I., Lovaković, T., Tikas, V., Lepeduš, H. (2014). Praktikum iz
anatomije biljaka, Sveučilište Josipa Jurja Strossmayera u Osijeku, Odjel za biologiju, Osijek.
34
Supramolecular Structures (BMZ81) 15C+15S+0L
ECTS 2
COURSE CONTENT: Lectures are presented in the programme "Chime" from a computer. The Web
materials that will be used in this course are from the renowned universities like Arizona, Hamburg,
Virginia, Illinois, Kenyon.These materials encompass the structural protein motifs interacting with
DNA and RNA, regulatory proteins in the gene expression, enzymes, membrane channels and pumps,
receptors, protein assemblies in photosynthesis, the key structures in immunological response,
viruses, nucleosomes and ribosomes.
SEMINAR CONTENT: Seminars on the selected topics are prepared and presented by the students,
according to their personal preference.
EXAMINATION METHODS: oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Berg, J.M., Tymoczko, J.L., Stryer, L. (2012). Biochemistry.Freeman & Comp., New York.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
http://www.rcsb.org/pdb/home/home.do
http://bcs.whfreeman.com/berg7
http://bcs.whfreeman.com/biochem6
www.whfreeman.com/biochem5
www.clunt.edu/BioDev/omm/exhibits.htm
www.biologie.uni-hamburg.de/lehre/bza/eanfang.htm
http://biology.kenyon.edu/BMB/chime.htm
http://www.proteopedia.org/wiki/index.php/Main_Page
http://www.ks.uiuc.edu
35
Plant Microtechnique and Microscopy (BMZ82) 30C+0S+15L
ECTS 2
COURSE CONTENT: Introduction to the plant microtechnique. The plant specimens sampling
procedures. Fixation. Dehidratation. Infiltration and embedding. Microtome manipulation.
Histochemical and cytochemical reactions on the free hand fresh sections, sections embedded in
paraffin, methacrylate or epoxy resins. Immunolocalisation. In situ hybridization of nucleic acids.
Light microscopy. Different types: phase contrast microscope, differential-interference-contrast
microscope, fluorescence microscope, confocal microscope. Electron microscopes: TEM and SEM
(ESEM).
LABORATORY CONTENT: The microscopy slide preparation: histochemical and cytochemical
reactions and analysis. The application of the different microscopy techniques in the permanent slide
analysis.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written, practical and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Ruzin, S.E. (1999). Plant Microtechnique and Microscopy. Oxford University Press, NewYork,
Oxford.
Ambriović Ristov, A. (2007). Metode u molekularnoj biologiji. Institut Ruđer Bošković, Zagreb.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Maliga, P., Klessig, D. F., Cashmore, A. R., Gruissem, W., Varner, J. E. (1995). Methods in Plant
Molecular Biology. A Laboratory Course Manual. Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, New York.
O’Brien, T. P., McCully, M. E. (1981). The Study of Plant Structure. Principles and Selected
Methods. Termercarphi Pty. Ltd., Melbourne, Australia.
Bowes, B.G. (1996). A Colour Atlas of Plant Structure. Manson Publishing Ltd, London.
Van de Graaf, K.M., Rushforth, S.R., Crawely, J.L. (1998). A Photographic Atlas for the Botany
Laboratory. 3rd edition. Morton Publishing Company, Colorado.
Additional literature will be selected from the most recent scientific publications that cover particular
areas, depending on the individual interests of students.
36
Plant Stress Physiology (BMZ83) 15C+15S+15L
ECTS 2
COURSE CONTENT: Abiotic stress: shortage of water and drought; temperature stress; increased
salt content in the soil; anoxia and hypoxia; light and UV stress; air and water pollution.
Biotic stress: competition between plant species; response to the predator and pathogen attack.
Pollution impact on the plants (heavy metals, atmospheric pollution and xenobiotics); resistance
mechanisms; pollution of water and soil; the use of chemicals in agriculture.
SEMINAR CONTENT: Students individually write and present some interesting topics on plant
stress physiology.
LABORATORY CONTENT: During the course students study some of the topics on their own,
through practical work in the laboratory.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Teiz, L., Zeiger, E. (2010). Plant Physiology. SinauerAssoc. Inc., Sunderland, Massachusetts.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Original scientific papers
Ambriović Ristov, A. (2007). Metode u molekularnoj biologiji. Institut Ruđer Bošković,
Zagreb.(http://www.mmb.irb.hr/)
Buchanan, B., Gruissem, W., Jones, R. (2002). Biochemistry&MolecularBiologyofPlants. American
SocietyofPlantPhysiologistsRockville, Maryland.
37
Entomology (BMZ88) 15C+15S+15L
ECTS 2
COURSE CONTENT: Introduction to the entomology. Present insects as the most important group of
animals in the world. Explain the reasons: (a) the immense diversity and flexibility; (b) the ratio of
insects to humans. Explain the relationship between humans and insects through the fundamental
determinants of the specialized entomology: the transmission of diseases (medical entomology), food
production (agricultural entomology), production of wood products (forest entomology), molestants
(urban entomology).
SEMINAR CONTENT: Students choose some of the selected topics in this field, prepare the topic with
the help of the lecturer and present it to the other students. It also provides an overview video that follows
the content of the programme.
LABORATORY CONTENT: A brief overview of the morphological and anatomical characteristics of
insects. Training to determine insects: ordo species, using the keys and computer programmes.
Sampling methods for insects, preparation and creation of entomological collection. Design of
entomological research.
EXAMINATION METHODS: entomological collection and oral exam
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Gullan, P. J., Cranston, P.S. (2000). The insects: An outline of Entomology. Blackwell Science, USA.
Service, M. (2012). Medical Entomology for Students. Fifth edition. Cambridge University Press.
Mstoničkin, I., Habdija, I., Primc-Habdija, B. (1999). Beskralješnjaci: Biologija viših
Avertebrata. Školska knjiga, Zagreb.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Peddigo, L. P. (2002). Entomology and Pest Menagment. Prentice Hall.
Romoser, W. S., Stoffolano, J. G. (1998). The Science of Entomology. WCB Mcgraw – Hill
Companies.
38
Ornithology (BMZ89) 15C+15S+0L
ECTS 2
COURSE CONTENT: Anatomy and morphology of the birds. Behaviour. Territoriality, colony,
breeding, nests, incubation of eggs, chickens, growing. Migration. Evolution. Phylogeny and
classification of the birds. Endangered and protected species. Ornithology and research methods –
observing, studying bird’s fauna, researching. The history of the ornithology in Croatia. Important
areas for birds in Croatia. Croatian ornithofauna.
SEMINAR CONTENT: Students have to prepare and present a seminar. Seminar has to contain a
description of one taxon of the birds (with biological, ecological and zoographical characteristic,
protection and IUCN status). If the taxon is endangered, students have to present causes of threats and
protection measures that are taken. Seminar topics may be linked to the general characteristics of birds
as the fly adjustments, the evolution of birds, migration, behaviour, etc.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Hoyo J., Elliot A., Sargatal, J. (1992). Handbook of the birds of the world. Lynx editiones,
Barcelona.
Gill, F.B. (2007). Ornithology. Third ed. W.H. Freeman and Company, New York.
Heinzel H., Fitter R., Parslow, J. (1999). Ptice Hrvatske i Europe. Hrvatsko ornitološko
društvo, Zagreb.
Radović D, Kralj J, Tutiš V, Radović J, Topić R. (2005). Nacionalna ekološka mreža. Važna
područja za ptice u Hrvatskoj. DZZP. Zagreb 84.
Tutiš V, Kralj J, Čiković D, Barišić S. (eds.) (2013). Crvena knjiga ptica Hrvatske. Ministarstvo
zaštite okoliša i prirode i Državni zavod za zaštitu prirode, Zagreb.
Kralj, J., Barišić, S., Tutiš, V.,Ćirković, D. (eds.) (2013). Atlas selidbe ptica Hrvatske. HAZU, Zavod
za ornitologiju Zagreb.
Bibby, C.J., Burgess, N.D., Hill, D.A. (1992). Bird Census Techniques. London: Academic Press.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Podulka, S., Rohrbaugh, R.W.Jr., Bonney, R. (eds.) (2004). Handbook of bird biology. Cornell
Laboratory of Ornithology. New York. USA.
Kralj, J. (1997). Ornitofauna Hrvatske tijekom posljednjih dvjesto godina. Larus 46: 8-9.
Lukač, G. (2007). Popis ptica Hrvatske. Natura Croatiaca, 16. Suppl. 1: 1-148.
Mikuška, J., Mikuška, T., Romulić, M. (2002). Ptice – vodič kroz biološku raznolikost Kopačkog rita.
Matica hrvatska, Osijek.
Hrvatska akademija znanosti i umjetnosti-Zavod za ornitologiju (2011). Prstenovanje ptica u
znanosti i zaštiti prirode. Zagreb.
39
Biogeographic Inventory (BBZ54) 15C+0S+15L
ECTS 2
COURSE CONTENT: Repetitorium of biogeography as a discipline which studies the distribution of
biodiversity in space and time. Creating biodiversity inventory lists. Qualitative (present/absent) and
quantitative (population density) data. Cartographic aspect of the biodiversity inventory. Location
coordinates. MTB and UTM map. The field data geocoding techniques. Connection with the
geoinformation systems. Relation with the spatial distribution of the environmental factors. Direct
mapping vs. mapping with the numerical model. Mapping of the habitat and vegetation types. Map
scale and minimal mapping area. Choice of the classification standard and the thematic resolution.
Usage of the data obtained from the remote sensing: expert interpretation and computer classification.
Preparation of the work maps and field verification. Cartographic principles (colours, symbols). Map
of the real, potential and climazonal vegetation. Time aspect of the biogeographic data. Time series of
the thematic maps and biomonitoring. Merging data from different sources. Methods for the spatial
analysis of the biogeographic data. Cartographic derivative of the basic data of the species, vegetation
and habitat spatial distribution.
LABORATORY CONTENT: Determination of the exact geographic position of the location. Filling
field list and noting field data. Editing field data in a form adequate for the further analysis.
Distribution mapping of the different species, vegetation and habitats. Graphic editing of the thematic
map. Interpretation of the existing cartographic content.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Leveque, C., Mounolou J. C. (2003). Biodiversity. John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Henderson P.A. (2003). Practical methods in ecology. Blackwell, UK.
Topić J., Vukelić J. (2009). Priručnik za određivanje kopnenih staništa u Hrvatskoj prema direktivi o
staništima EU. Državni zavod za zaštitu prirode, RH.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Nikolić, T., Bukovec, D., Šopf, J, Jelaska S.D. (1998). Kartiranje flore Hrvatske – mogućnosti i
standardi. Nat. Croat. 7, Suppl. 1: 1-62.
Bohn, U., Gollub, G., Hettwer, C. (eds.) (2000). Map of the natural vegetation of Europe. Federal
agency for nature conservation.
Horvat, I. (1962). Vegetacija planina zapadne Hrvatske. Prirodoslovna istraživanja, Jugoslavenska
akademija znanosti i umjetnosti, Acta Biologica 2, knjiga 30, 5-179.3.
Evans, K.M. (2006). Endangered species, protecting biodiversity. Thomson Gale.
Hawksworth, D.L., Bull, A.T. (2007). Plant conservation and biodiversity. Springer.
Vukelić, A. Mikac, S., Baričević, D., Bakšić, D., Rosavec, R. (2008). Šumska staništa i šumske
zajednice u Hrvatskoj. DZZP. Zagreb.
Radović J, Čivić K, Topić R, Posavec Vukelić, V. (2009). Biološka raznolikost Hrvatske, Drugo
izmijenjeno izdanje. DZZP. Zagreb.
Brown, R.W., Lawrence, M.J., Pope, J. (2009). Animals – tracks, trails and signs. Bounty Books,
Octopus publishing Group Ltd, London.
Alegro, A. et al. (2010). Botanički važna područja Hrvatske. Školska knjiga, Zagreb.
Sutherland, W.J. (2010). Ecological Census Techniques – a handbook, Cambridge University Press,
New York.
40
Underwater Biological Research (BMZ93) 0C+0S+30L
ECTS 2
COURSE CONTENT: -
LABORATORY CONTENT: Sampling of the bottom and sediment for the purpose of invertarisation;
water column sampling; application of the IR camera for the inspection and research; usage of the
sonar; creating sampling sketch and profile; diving with the autonomous diving gear.
EXAMINATION METHODS: Written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Clark, A.R. (2000). Open Water Diver. SSI Croatia, Rijeka
Coyer, J., Steller, D., Witman, J. (1990). The Underwater Catalog: A Guide to Methods in Underwater
Research. Shoals Marine Laboratory, Ithaca.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Miller, C.B. (2003). Biological oceanography. Blackwell Publishing, Malden.
Medwin, H., Clay, C.S. (1997). Fundamentals of Acoustical Oceanography. Academic Press, New
York.
Rand, M.G. (1995). Fundamentals of Aquatic Toxicology. Taylor and Francis, Philadelphia – London.
41
Geoinformatics in Biological Research (BMZ94) 15C+0S+15L
ECTS 2
COURSE CONTENT: The definition and the scope of geoinformatics; organization and display of the
spatial data; Geographic Information System (GIS); projections and spatial transformations;
digitalization, scanning and vectorization; georeferencing; raster and vector GIS; thematic layers;
attribute tables; operations with the raster and vector themes; digital relief model and
geomorphometric derivatives, spatial interpolations, spatial modelling; physical fundamentals of the
remote sensing; orthophoto; multispectral scanners; the Earth surface spectral signature; passive and
active sensors; the major satellite platforms; spatial, temporal, spectral and thematic resolution;
subjective interpretation and delineation; controlled and uncontrolled automatic classification; spectral
channels as continuous estimators of the biological and environmental variables spatio-temporal series
and monitoring on the large area; virtual sampling and preparation of the matrix for the numerical
analysis; significance of the geoinformatic technologies in the biological research with the
demonstration on the practical examples; the overview of the commercial and freely available
geoinformatic software packages.
LABORATORY CONTENT: Basic operations with the vector and raster spatial data, usage of GPS
devices; autonomous making of the thematic digital map; application of the basic geostatistical
methods, the geomorphometric analysis and the data analysis obtained with the remote sensing in the
context of the biological research.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Burrough, P.A., McDonnell, R.A. (1998). Principles of geographical information systems.
Barret, E.C., Curtis, L.F. (1999). Environmental Remote Sensing.
Hengl, T., Reuter, H.I. (2009). Geomorphometry: Concepts, Software, Applications. Elsevier,
Amsterdam, London, New York.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Bernhardsen, T. (2002). Geographic Information System, An Introduction, 3rd ed.. John Willey and
Sons, Toronto.
Frančula, N. (2003). Digitalna kartografija.
Oluić, M. (2001). Snimanje i istraživanje Zemlje iz Svemira: sateliti, senzori, primjena.
Hengl, T. (2004). Geografski informacijski sustavi u inventarizaciji prirodnih resursa. Sveučilište u
Osijeku, Osijek.
42
Molecular Genetics (BM758) 30C+0S+15L
ECTS 4
COURSE CONTENT: Molecular basis of the inheritance: DNA and RNA as genetic material and the
flow of the genetic information (basic information about replication, transcription, reverse
transcription and translation). Informational content of the nucleic acids (primary, secondary and
tertiary structure), genetic code and genes. Genome projects. Procaryotic and eukaryotic genome.
Classification of the genomic DNA sequences: significance and functionality of the coding and non-
coding sequences, classification according to the copy number. "DNA identity", minisatellites and
microsatellites. The genome size and the C-value paradox. Significance of the reorganizations in
genome evolution, principles of the recombination processes. Transposable elements and their role in
the genome evolution. DNA in the eukaryotic genome: nucleosomes, chromatin and chromosomes.
Genome compartments, euchromatin and heterochromatin. Centromeres and telomeres, epigenetic
inheritance. Transcription in the regulation and formation of a genome: RNA mechanisms. The basic
characteristics of the human genome, isohore organization and comparisons with the sequenced
genomes of the other species. Significance of the structural organization of the interphase nucleus in
the genome function.
LABORATORY CONTENT: Isolation of the eukaryotic genomic DNA. Restriction analysis with
endonucleases, electrophoretic separation of the fragmented DNA and purification of the fragments of
interest from agarose gels. Cloning: preparation of the vector, ligation, preparation of the competent
cells and transformation. Selection of the transformed bacterial clones on selective media, minipreps
of the plasmid DNA and selection of the clones of interest. Southern hybridization analysis.
Introduction to the computer analyses of the DNA sequences (restriction sites, GenBank search,
alignments, basic phylogenetic analysis and similar).
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Tamarin, R.H. (1999). Principles of genetics. 6th edition. McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
Blackburn, G. M., Gait, M. J. (1996). Nucleic acids in chemistry and biology. 2nd edition. Oxford
University Press.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Alberts, B., Bray, D., Lewis, J., Raff, M., Roberts, K., Watson, J. D. (1994). Molecular biology of the
cell. 3rd edition. Garland Publishing, Inc., New York – London.
Additional literature will be selected from most recent review articles in the field and the problems of
interest (e.g. Trends in Genetics, Current Opinion serials and similar).
43
Dendrology (BMZ95) 15C+30S+0L
ECTS 2
COURSE CONTENT: Plant life-forms. The role of the woody stem in the plant life strategy. Wood
anatomy - primary and secondary growth. The vascular system: morphology and evolution.
Comparative anatomy and morphology of the vegetative and generative organs with the emphasis on
the evolutionary and ecological context. Ontogeny and phylogeny of the tree species. Strategies of the
reproduction and dissemination. The position of the woody species in the plant evolution and
systematics. Paleodendrology. Exchange of the matter and energy in woody plants. Biotic and abiotic
impacts on growth, development and status of woody plants. Interactions of trees and other organisms.
Potential and realized ecological niche. Dendrometric parameters. Dendrochronology as a retroactive
monitoring of the habitat conditions. Woody species as edificators of the forest ecosystems. Global
ecological amplitude of the trees and forests. Variability of the forests in space and time.
SEMINAR CONTENT: The successional and degradation phases of the forests. Trees in non-forest
habitats. Importance of trees in the circulation of matter and energy in nature. Rare and endangered
tree species. Rare and endangered forest types. Rainforests, semi-rainforests, managed forests, forest
plantations.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Idžojtić, M. (2013). Dendrologija-cvijet, češer, plod, sjeme. Udžbenici Sveučilišta u Zagrebu,
Sveučilište u Zagrebu Šumarski fakultet, Hrvatske šume d.o.o., Zagreb.
Idžojtić, M. (2009). Dendrologija-list. Udžbenici Sveučilišta u Zagrebu, Sveučilište u Zagrebu
Šumarski fakultet, Hrvatske šume d.o.o., Akademija šumarskih znanosti, Zagreb.
Šilić, Č. (1990). Ukrasno drveće i grmlje. Svjetlost, Sarajevo.
Šilić, Č. (1983). Atlas drveća i grmlja. Svjetlost, Sarajevo.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Vukelić, J., Rauš, Đ. (1998). Šumarska fitocenologija i šumske zajednice u Hrvatskoj. Udžbenici
Sveučilišta u Zagrebu, Šumarski fakultet, Zagreb.
Rauš, Đ., Vukelić, J. (1995). Silvae nostrae Croatiae. Ministarstvo poljoprivrede i šumarstva
Republike Hrvatske: Hrvatske šume, Zagreb.
Rauš, Đ. (1992). Šume u Hrvatskoj. Sveučilište u Zagrebu Šumarski fakultet, Hrvatske šume, Zagreb.
44
Geology and Paleontology (BMZ96) 30C+15S+0L
ECTS 2
COURSE CONTENT: Introduction: definition and application of geology and paleontology;
introduction to the basic terms; relationship with the other sciences. Division of geology. Genesis,
structure, causes and consequences of the internal and external dynamics of the Earth. Review of the
geological periods, disposition of land, floating of continents, tectonic shifts and climate changes.
Genesis, classification and dating of rocks (igneous, metamorphic, sedimentary). Paleontological
taxonomy (Monera, Protozoa, Protophyta, Algae, Plantae, Sponges, Corals, Bivalves, Gastropods,
Cephalopods, Polymeria, Oligomeria, Vertebrata). Evolution of the species (the origin and
development of life), mass extinction and recovery after the mass extinction, biodiversity. Fossils as
living organisms (stromatolites, sessile invertebrates, algae) and environmental indicators.
Biostratigraphy. Paleoecology.
SEMINAR CONTENT: Students learn about the different models and materials about the main topics
of this course. Furthermore, students choose and present one of the selected topics.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Briggs, D.E.G., Crowther, P.R. (2003). Paleobiology II. Blackwell.
Herak, M. (1990). Geologija. Školska knjiga, Zagreb.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Sremac, J. (1999). Opća paleontologija. Skripta, PMF.
McKerrow, W.S. (1981). The Ecology of Fossils – An Illustrated Guide. MIT Press.
Milsom, C., Rigby, S. (2010). Fossils at a Glance, 2nd edition.Wiley-Blackwell, London.
Plummer, C.C., McGreary, D. Carlson, D.H. (1999). Physical Geology. 8th edition. The McGraw-Hill
companies, Boston.
Clarkson, E.N.K. (1998). Invertebrate Palaeontology and Evolution, 4th edition. Blackwell Science
Ltd., London.
Benton, M.J. (2000). Vertebrate Palaeontology, 2nd edition. Blackwell Science Ltd., London.
Retallack, G.J. (2001). Soils of the Past. An Introduction to Paleopedology. 2nd edition. Blackwell,
Oxford.
Stewart, W.N., Rothwell, G.W. (1993). Paleobotany and the Evolution of Plants, 2nd edition.
Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, UK.
45
Protection and Revitalization of Aquatic Ecosystems (BMZ97) 15C+15S+0L
ECTS 2
COURSE CONTENT: Water ecosystems - structure and function. Methods for the trophic state
qualification. Problems of the lakes and reservoirs – types and sources of problems. Qualitative and
qualitative assessment of the problem. Comprehensive water balance and mass balance. Remedial
techniques – external control measures, internal control measures. Use of models. Planning for sound
management of the water ecosystems.
SEMINAR CONTENT: Restoration methods – hypolimnetic withdrawal, precipitation of phosphorus
and inactivation, sediment oxidation, sediment removal, hypolimnetic aeration, the procedures to
control plant biomass – harvesting, biomanipulation. Lake restoration – case studies.
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Wetzel, R. G. (2001). Limnology – Lake and River Ecosystems. 3rd ed. Academic Press, San Diego.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Jørgensen, S.E., Vollenweider, R.A. (eds.) (1989). Guidelines of Lake Management: Vol. 1, Principles
of Lake Management. International Lake Environment Committee Foundation. Shiga.
46
Avian Metabolism (BMZ98) 15C+15S+0L
ECTS 2
COURSE CONTENT: A survey of the special metabolic demands in birds. Metabolic adaptations due
to flight, water habitat, migration on long distances with no food intake and reduced oxygen supply as
well as special metabolic requirements for the eggs laying and hatching.. The role of the n-3 PUFA for
the metabolic and energetic changes. Comparison of some aspects of avian metabolic adaptations with
human pathologic states like obesity and diabetes type 2 for better understanding of the biochemical
basis of their development and help in their efficient treatment.
SEMINAR CONTENT: -
EXAMINATION METHODS: written and oral
OBLIGATORY LITERATURE:
Lewis, S. (2004). Avian Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Cambridge University Press, Cambrige,
United Kingdom.
ADDITIONAL LITERATURE:
Schat, K.A., Kaspers, B., Kaiser, P. (2014). Elsevier Ltd., United Kingdom.
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