Which of the following changes would be expected to occur with increased binding of a hormone to plasma proteins?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Step 1: Increased binding of a hormone to plasma proteins reduces the concentration of free hormone in the blood. Step 2: With decreased free hormone levels, there is less hormone available to exert its effects. Step 3: This reduction in free hormone would lead to an increase in the degree of negative feedback exerted by the hormone to regulate its own production. Therefore, the correct answer is D. Summary: A: Increase in plasma clearance of the hormone - Incorrect. Increased binding to plasma proteins would decrease clearance. B: Decrease in half-life of the hormone - Incorrect. Increased binding can prolong the half-life by protecting the hormone from degradation. C: Increase in hormone activity - Incorrect. Increased binding reduces the availability of free hormone, decreasing its activity.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because menopause occurs when the ovaries run out of follicles, which are needed for ovulation and hormone production. This leads to reduced estrogen levels and cessation of menstrual cycles. Choices A and B focus on hormone levels and follicle responsiveness, not the actual follicle count. Choice C is incorrect as progesterone is mainly produced by the corpus luteum after ovulation, not the primary cause of menopause.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: vesicular (Graafian) follicle. A mature ovarian follicle ready for ovulation is called a vesicular follicle. It is the final stage before ovulation. A: primary oocyte is incorrect as it refers to an immature egg cell. C: ovum is incorrect as it refers to a mature egg cell after fertilization. D: corpus luteum is incorrect as it forms after ovulation and is responsible for producing progesterone, not the mature follicle.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The milky-colored fluid secreted from the prostate cleanses the urethra. This fluid helps neutralize the acidity of the urethra, providing a more suitable environment for sperm to survive. It does not enable sperm to swim or activate them, as these functions are performed by other components of semen. Additionally, it does not neutralize urine, as its primary function is to support sperm survival and motility.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: endometrium. The endometrium is the inner mucosal layer of the uterus that sheds during menstruation. It is where implantation of a fertilized egg occurs. Myometrium (B) is the middle muscular layer, responsible for uterine contractions. Perimetrium (C) is the outer layer of the uterus. Epimetrium (D) is not a recognized term in anatomy.