Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Menopause. Menopause is associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis due to hormonal changes that affect lipid profiles and vascular health. Conversely, B: Age older than 35 is not necessarily a risk factor for atherosclerosis on its own, though atherosclerosis risk does generally increase with age. C: Increased levels of arachidonic acid is not specifically linked to atherosclerosis; it's a fatty acid that can be both beneficial and harmful to health depending on its metabolic pathway. D: Elevated HDL cholesterol is actually beneficial rather than harmful because HDL cholesterol is known as 'good' cholesterol that helps to reduce the risk of heart disease and atherosclerosis.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: All the statements above are accurate about oral exposure to fermentable carbohydrates, except for option B. In fact, longer exposure to these carbohydrates decreases the opportunity for remineralization. This is because the process of demineralization, in which minerals are lost from the tooth enamel, is sped up by the presence of fermentable carbohydrates. The Stephan curve (option C) is a graph that demonstrates how the pH of dental plaque changes after a sugar rinse, usually dropping (becoming more acidic), which can lead to enamel decalcification. Option D is also accurate, as a pH of 5.5 or lower is the critical point at which enamel starts to decalcify.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Avoiding fatty foods can help reduce the symptoms of GERD.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: All the listed options (Age, Sleep, Fasting/Starvation, Activity Level) are factors that can affect a person's Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR). BMR is the number of calories your body needs to accomplish its most basic (basal) life-sustaining functions. Age can affect BMR as metabolism slows with age. Sleep can influence BMR as metabolism slows during sleep. Fasting or starvation can decrease BMR as the body conserves energy. Activity level can also influence BMR; the more active you are, the higher your BMR, as your body requires more energy for physical activities.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Vitamins A, D, E, and K are fat-soluble, meaning they require fat for absorption. Diseases that cause fat malabsorption can lead to deficiencies in these vitamins.