A branch of the nerve regulating the secretions of the stomach can be cut surgically. The decrease in hydrochloric acid secretion that would result from this procedure would be most helpful to an individual with

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: ulcers. Cutting the nerve branch would decrease hydrochloric acid secretion, which is beneficial for individuals with ulcers as it can help in reducing stomach acidity and promoting healing of the ulcers. For the other choices: A: Diarrhea is not directly related to hydrochloric acid secretion in the stomach. B: Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix and is not influenced by stomach acid secretion. C: Gallstones are formed in the gallbladder and are not directly affected by stomach acid secretion.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Region A refers to the glomerulus in the kidney, where filtration occurs. The correct answer is B because substances are filtered out of the blood into the renal tubules for further processing. Proteins being converted to urea (A) happens in the liver, not in the glomerulus. Urine storage (C) occurs in the bladder, not in the glomerulus. Water reabsorption (D) occurs in the renal tubules, not in the glomerulus. Therefore, choice B is correct for region A.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Carbon dioxide. The UREA breath test measures the presence of H. pylori in the stomach by detecting the breakdown of urea into carbon dioxide and ammonia by the bacteria. H. pylori produces the enzyme urease, which hydrolyzes urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide. Therefore, an increase in carbon dioxide levels indicates the presence of H. pylori. Choice A (Ammonia) is incorrect because the test does not specifically measure ammonia levels. Choice B (Urea) is also incorrect because the test measures the breakdown of urea, not the urea itself. Choice C (Hydrochloric acid) is incorrect as the test does not directly measure this acid.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Helicobacter pylori infection. This bacterium is the most common cause of peptic ulcer disease by causing inflammation and weakening the protective lining of the stomach or duodenum. Studies have shown a strong association between H. pylori infection and peptic ulcers. A high-fat diet (A) may exacerbate symptoms but is not the primary cause. Stress (B) and alcohol consumption (D) can worsen symptoms but do not directly cause peptic ulcers. In summary, H. pylori infection is the leading cause of peptic ulcer disease due to its ability to damage the stomach lining.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the term mucosa (mucous membrane) refers to the moist surface lining of any hollow organ that communicates with the outside world. This includes organs like the respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract, and genitourinary tract. The mucosa serves various functions such as protection, absorption, and secretion. Explanation for why the other choices are incorrect: A: A nonkeratinized stratified squamous epithelium describes a specific type of epithelium found in certain areas of the body, but it does not encompass the full definition of mucosa. B: While mucosa may contain mucus-secreting goblet cells, this is not the defining characteristic of mucosa. C: Mucous glands may secrete their product onto the mucosa, but this definition is too specific and does not encompass the full scope of mucosa.