All of the following agents intensify the secretion of gastric glands EXCEPT:

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Carbonate mineral waters. Carbonate mineral waters do not intensify the secretion of gastric glands. Pepsin is an enzyme that aids in digestion, Gastrin is a hormone that stimulates gastric acid secretion, and Histamine is a neurotransmitter that also stimulates gastric acid secretion. Carbonate mineral waters do not have the same effect on gastric glands as the other agents listed. Therefore, the correct answer is D.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why A (Digoxin) is the correct answer: 1. Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside that slows conduction through the AV node, making it effective in controlling supraventricular tachycardias. 2. It increases the refractory period of the AV node, reducing the heart rate. 3. Digoxin is not a vasopressor like Dobutamine or Dopamine, which are used for different indications. 4. Amrinone is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, primarily used in heart failure, not specifically for supraventricular tachycardias.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Nifedipine. Nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker that directly acts on vascular smooth muscle to cause vasodilation by inhibiting calcium influx. Labetalol and Clonidine are alpha and beta blockers, Enalapril is an ACE inhibitor, which all indirectly cause vasodilation. Therefore, Nifedipine is the only directly acting vasodilator among the choices.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because hormones are indeed products of endocrine gland secretion. Endocrine glands release hormones directly into the bloodstream to regulate various physiological processes. Choice B is incorrect as hormones are not mediators of the inflammatory process. Choice C is wrong because hormones are not by-products of tissue metabolism but rather specific signaling molecules. Choice D is incorrect as hormones are not products of exocrine gland secretion but rather endocrine glands.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because thiazolidinediones work by activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ), which leads to increased glucose uptake and metabolism in muscle and adipose tissues, thereby reducing insulin resistance. It does not reduce carbohydrate absorption from the gut (choice B) or stimulate beta islet cells to produce insulin (choice C). Therefore, the correct answer is A as it directly addresses the mechanism of action of thiazolidinediones.