Which muscle pair plays a role in respiration?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The diaphragm and scalene muscles aid respiration: the diaphragm contracts to expand the thoracic cavity for inhalation, while scalenes elevate the upper ribs, assisting inspiration, especially during deep breathing. Intertransversarii and interspinales stabilize vertebrae, not respiration. Semispinalis muscles extend the neck/back, not breathing. Trapezius and rhomboids move the scapula, not lungs. The diaphragm-scalene pair's direct impact on thoracic volume makes 'd' correct.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Scoliosis is an abnormal mediolateral (side-to-side) curvature of the vertebral column, forming an 'S' or 'C' shape, often idiopathic or congenital, affecting spinal alignment. Kyphosis is excessive thoracic curvature (hunchback), anteroposterior. Lordosis is exaggerated lumbar curvature (swayback), also anteroposterior. Rotation isn't a curvature type but a movement. Scoliosis's lateral deviation, diagnosable via X-ray, distinguishes it, making 'a' the correct term.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Retinal detachment occurs when the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye, separates from its supportive tissue, risking permanent vision loss if untreated. The hallmark symptom is the sudden onset of flashing lights and floaters. Flashing lights, or photopsia, result from the retina being pulled or torn, stimulating photoreceptors and creating light perceptions. Floaters appear as spots or cobwebs drifting in the visual field, caused by vitreous gel detaching and casting shadows on the retina. As detachment progresses, a shadow or curtain may obscure vision, but early recognition hinges on these initial signs. Pain is absent because the retina lacks pain receptors; discomfort suggests other issues like infection. Elevated intraocular pressure relates to glaucoma, damaging the optic nerve, not detaching the retina. Drooping eyelids, or ptosis, stem from muscular or nerve issues, unrelated to retinal changes. Ophthalmological studies emphasize these visual phenomena as critical early warnings, distinguishing retinal detachment from conditions with different mechanisms, urging prompt medical attention to preserve sight.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Simple squamous epithelium, a single layer of flat cells, is specialized for diffusion, as in alveoli (lungs) or capillaries, where thinness facilitates gas or nutrient exchange. Simple cuboidal focuses on secretion/absorption (e.g., kidney tubules), not primarily diffusion. Stratified squamous protects (e.g., skin), too thick for efficient diffusion. Transitional stretches (e.g., bladder), not diffusion-optimized. Simple squamous's minimal thickness and large surface area, per tissue function, make 'c' the correct choice.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The dermis, beneath the epidermis, contains blood vessels (for nutrition), nerves (for sensation), and glands, supporting skin function. The epidermis is avascular, lacking vessels/nerves. The hypodermis has some vessels but is mainly fat. Stratum corneum , the epidermis's top, is dead cells. The dermis's vascular and neural richness, per skin anatomy, makes 'b' correct.