The anterior pituitary:

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the anterior pituitary is regulated by hypothalamic neuropeptides. The hypothalamus secretes releasing and inhibiting hormones that control the anterior pituitary's hormone release. This close interaction between the hypothalamus and the anterior pituitary is known as the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. A is incorrect because the anterior pituitary is not neural tissue, it is an endocrine gland. B is incorrect because the anterior pituitary synthesizes and secretes peptide hormones, not steroid hormones. C is incorrect because the anterior pituitary is located at the base of the brain, not above the kidney.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why answer A is correct: 1. Oxytocin is synthesized in the hypothalamus and released into the bloodstream. 2. In the plasma, oxytocin binds to neurophysin, a carrier protein. 3. This binding helps stabilize oxytocin and regulate its release and distribution. 4. Therefore, choice A is correct as oxytocin is bound to neurophysin in plasma. Summary: - Choice B is incorrect as oxytocin stimulates milk ejection, not inhibits milk production. - Choice C is incorrect as oxytocin promotes myometrial contraction during labor. - Choice D is incorrect as oxytocin can enhance sperm motility, not inhibit it.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because synthesis of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) occurs by the coupling of iodinated tyrosine residues on thyroglobulin within thyroid follicles. Thyroglobulin acts as a precursor for thyroid hormone synthesis. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because thyroid hormone synthesis does not occur in parafollicular cells, extracellularly in plasma, or require cholesterol for the coupling of iodinated tyrosine residues on thyroglobulin.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Aldosterone increases potassium excretion by promoting the reabsorption of sodium and water in the kidneys, leading to potassium excretion. This helps maintain electrolyte balance. Other choices are incorrect because aldosterone does not directly increase water loss, is released in response to low blood volume, and is deficient in Addison's disease.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Increased parathyroid hormone (PTH) concentration is associated with tetany because PTH helps regulate calcium levels in the blood. When calcium levels are low, PTH is released to stimulate the release of calcium from bones and increase calcium absorption from the intestines. Tetany is characterized by muscle cramps and spasms due to low calcium levels, which can occur when PTH levels are elevated. A: Vitamin D toxicity is associated with high levels of calcium in the blood, not low calcium levels as seen in tetany. B: Rickets is a condition caused by vitamin D deficiency, leading to impaired bone growth and development, not directly related to elevated PTH levels. D: Reduced excretion of phosphate is not directly linked to elevated PTH levels, as PTH primarily regulates calcium levels.