Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The placenta plays a crucial role in producing hormones that are necessary for maintaining pregnancy, supporting fetal development, and preparing the mother's body for childbirth. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the placenta's primary function is not to surround and cushion the fetus, combine blood stores for nutrient exchange, or absorb vitamins and minerals. While the placenta does facilitate the exchange of nutrients and oxygen between the mother and fetus, its hormone production is the most critical function during pregnancy.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Statistical data suggest that Caucasians generally have lower rates of type 2 diabetes compared to the other ethnic groups listed in the choices. This is not to say that Caucasians are immune to the disease, but rather that they have fewer reported instances. On the other hand, African Americans and Pacific Islanders are often identified as groups with a significantly higher risk and prevalence of type 2 diabetes. Asian Indians also exhibit higher rates compared to Caucasians. It is important to note that these are general trends observed in statistical data, and individual health outcomes can vary based on various factors such as lifestyle, diet, and genetics, among others. Therefore, the correct answer is A: Caucasians because they generally have the lowest rates of type 2 diabetes when compared to the other ethnic groups mentioned.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Vitamin C is crucial for collagen production and connective tissue repair, making it a key nutrient for healing gingival tissues in patients with gingivitis or periodontal disease. Carbohydrates are a source of energy and not directly related to tissue repair. Vitamin D is important for bone health but is not the highest priority for gingival tissue healing. Monosaccharides are simple sugars and not as essential for tissue repair as Vitamin C.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is known for a variety of oral manifestations such as oral candidiasis, hairy leukoplakia, herpetic ulcerations, Kaposi's sarcoma, xerostomia, and severe periodontal disease. These symptoms are not typically associated with acute leukemia, anorexia nervosa, or bulimia. Acute leukemia usually presents with symptoms like fatigue, frequent infections, and easy bruising. Anorexia nervosa and bulimia are eating disorders, thus their primary symptoms are primarily associated with eating habits and body weight, not oral health.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are a type of antisecretory drug that can cause nausea and vomiting by altering stomach acid production. These are common side effects associated with PPIs. Gastroparesis (B) is a condition that affects the stomach muscles and prevents proper stomach emptying; it is not a side effect of PPIs. Dumping syndrome (C) is a group of symptoms that can occur after having part of your stomach removed and is not a side effect of PPIs. While some people might experience flatulence (D) when taking PPIs, it is not as commonly associated with these drugs as the effects of nausea and vomiting.