What is the main function of calcitonin, a hormone produced by the thyroid gland?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Calcitonin is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that primarily functions to lower blood calcium levels. It achieves this by inhibiting bone breakdown and promoting calcium excretion by the kidneys. Therefore, the correct answer is D as it reflects the main role of calcitonin in calcium homeostasis. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not align with the primary function of calcitonin. Calcitonin does not stimulate metabolism and heat production (Choice A), increase calcium absorption from the intestines (Choice B), or enhance bone growth and development (Choice C).

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Somatic nervous system. The major divisions of the nervous system are the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system, which includes all the nerves outside of the central nervous system. The somatic nervous system, which controls voluntary movements and reflexes, is a part of the peripheral nervous system. The autonomic nervous system is another subdivision of the peripheral nervous system that regulates involuntary functions like heart rate and digestion. Therefore, the somatic nervous system is not a major division of the nervous system, making it the correct answer.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The peripheral nervous system can be further divided into sensory (afferent) neurons that carry information from sensory receptors to the central nervous system and motor (efferent) neurons that carry information from the central nervous system to muscles and glands. Choice A, 'Sensory and motor,' is the correct answer as it accurately identifies the two main functional divisions of the peripheral nervous system. Choices B, 'Sympathetic and parasympathetic,' are divisions of the autonomic nervous system, not the peripheral nervous system. Choice C, 'Myelinated and unmyelinated,' refers to the structural classification of nerve fibers rather than functional divisions. Choice D, 'Central and peripheral,' contrasts the central nervous system with the peripheral nervous system, not further dividing the peripheral nervous system itself.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland is overactive and produces an excessive amount of thyroid hormones. This can lead to symptoms such as weight loss, rapid heartbeat, sweating, and nervousness. Diabetes mellitus is a condition characterized by high blood sugar levels due to either insufficient insulin production or the body's inability to respond to insulin. Hypothyroidism is the opposite of hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid gland is underactive and produces insufficient thyroid hormones. Cushing's syndrome is a disorder that occurs when the body has a high level of the hormone cortisol for a long time.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Growth hormone. Growth hormone plays a crucial role in stimulating growth, cell reproduction, and regeneration in children. A deficiency in growth hormone can lead to stunted growth and developmental delays. Estrogen and testosterone are sex hormones that do not directly influence growth in the same way as growth hormone. Insulin primarily regulates blood sugar levels and is not the primary hormone responsible for growth and development in children.