Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When tubes distend, they expand or become enlarged, which typically results in stretching rather than flexing, solidifying, or collapsing. Distending tubes imply an increase in size or volume, indicating a stretching or expansion effect. Therefore, the correct answer is 'stretch.' Choice A, 'flex,' is incorrect as flexing refers to bending or curling, not expanding. Choice C, 'solidify,' is incorrect as solidifying refers to becoming solid, which is not related to the expansion of tubes. Choice D, 'collapse,' is incorrect as collapsing refers to falling in or giving way, which is the opposite effect of distending.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'quite stubborn.' The word 'obdurate' means stubbornly refusing to change one's opinion or course of action. Therefore, if a patient is especially obdurate, it indicates that she is likely very stubborn in her behavior or beliefs. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not reflect the meaning of 'obdurate.' Being 'very large' (Choice A), 'easily upset' (Choice C), or 'ready to go home' (Choice D) does not directly relate to being stubborn and unwilling to change.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The word 'spurious' in this sentence means something that is false or not genuine. In this context, the researcher's argument was misleading or deceitful, confusing even the experts. 'Bogus' means not genuine or false, which aligns closely with the intended meaning of 'spurious.' The other choices, 'obscure,' 'baffling,' and 'outrageous,' do not capture the essence of being false or deceitful, making them incorrect in this context.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Dormant. Latent and dormant are synonymous and refer to something existing but not currently active or evident. Choice A, 'Flagrant,' means something that is conspicuously offensive, blatant, or glaring, which is the opposite of latent. Choice C, 'Deceased,' means no longer alive, which is unrelated to latent. Choice D, 'Postponed,' means to delay or reschedule to a later time, which is not synonymous with latent.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of the sentence provided, the word 'operated' is best described as 'managed and run.' This choice accurately reflects the idea that rural communities are taking ownership and control of their hospitals, which may be overseen and operated by administrative medical groups. The word 'operated' here implies the day-to-day management and functioning of the hospitals, making option C the most suitable description in this context. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not capture the essence of 'operated' in the context of managing and running the hospitals.