In which health problem is protein catabolism increased?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Protein catabolism increases in conditions like severe burns because the body breaks down muscle protein to provide energy for healing. Severe obesity does not necessarily increase protein catabolism; instead, it is more related to excessive fat accumulation. Hypothyroidism may lead to a decrease in metabolic rate but does not directly increase protein catabolism. Food allergies trigger an immune response to specific foods but do not directly impact protein catabolism.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, intramural nerve plexus. The intramural nerve plexus is the interrelated network of nerves within the gastrointestinal wall that regulates its muscular action. The gastric nerve plexus (choice A) specifically pertains to the network of nerves in the stomach, not the entire gastrointestinal wall. The biliary nerve plexus (choice B) is associated with nerve supply in the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts, not the gastrointestinal wall. The intestinal nerve plexus (choice D) is a general term that may refer to various nerve networks within the intestines but does not specifically address the entire gastrointestinal wall.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because essential fatty acids are not manufactured by the body and must be obtained through the diet. Choice A is incorrect because essential fatty acids can come from plant sources as well. Choice B is incorrect as essential fatty acids are primarily derived from plant sources. Choice D is incorrect because essential fatty acids cannot be produced by the body. Therefore, the only accurate statement is that essential fatty acids are not manufactured by the body.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is choice D because medication for high cholesterol is typically not considered unless Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes (TLC), which include diet and exercise, have not proven effective after a three-month period. This approach ensures that lifestyle modifications are given a fair chance to lower cholesterol levels before resorting to medication. Choice A is incorrect because the number of risk factors for coronary heart disease does not dictate when to begin medication; it is about the effectiveness of lifestyle changes. Choice B is incorrect as the duration of coronary heart disease symptoms does not determine when to start medication; the focus is on the response to TLC. Choice C is incorrect because the coverage of prescription drugs by the patient's insurance does not influence the medical decision to use medication for high cholesterol; it is based on medical necessity and effectiveness of prior interventions.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Beta cells in the islets of Langerhans in the pancreas are responsible for the production and secretion of insulin, which is crucial for regulating blood glucose levels. Alpha cells, on the other hand, produce glucagon, a hormone that raises blood glucose levels. Gamma cells and Delta cells do not exist in the islets of Langerhans; therefore, they are incorrect choices.