Which of the following is a role of platelets in hemostasis?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Platelets play a crucial role in hemostasis by forming plugs to stop bleeding. Choice B is incorrect because platelets do not promote vasodilation; instead, they help in vasoconstriction. Choice C is incorrect as the conversion of prothrombin to thrombin is a function of the coagulation cascade involving various clotting factors, not platelets. Choice D is incorrect as platelets do not directly activate calcium; instead, they play a role in the activation of other clotting factors.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Lowering the hand by straightening the elbow is the action of extending the forearm, which is primarily done by the triceps brachii muscle. The triceps brachii is the main extensor muscle of the elbow joint. The biceps brachii is responsible for flexing the elbow, not extending it, making it an incorrect choice. Brachialis is a strong elbow flexor, and brachioradialis helps in flexing the elbow and pronating the forearm, so they are not the primary muscles involved in straightening the elbow.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Hematocrit.' Hematocrit is the measurement of the percentage of red blood cells in whole blood. It is used to diagnose conditions such as anemia and dehydration. Choice B, 'Hemoglobin,' measures the amount of hemoglobin in the blood, not the percentage of red blood cells. Choice C, 'Mean corpuscular volume,' measures the average volume of a red blood cell, not the percentage of red blood cells. Choice D, 'Reticulocyte count,' measures the percentage of young red blood cells in the blood, not the percentage of red blood cells.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Weight loss is a common symptom of hyperthyroidism, which is characterized by an excess secretion of thyroid hormone. This increased metabolic rate can lead to weight loss despite normal or increased appetite. Bradycardia (slow heart rate), cold intolerance, and lethargy are more commonly associated with hypothyroidism, where there is an insufficient production of thyroid hormone. Therefore, choices B, C, and D are incorrect in the context of hypersecretion of thyroid hormone.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'fluid to lubricate the head of the penis.' The prostate gland produces a milky fluid that makes up part of the seminal fluid, which helps to nourish and transport sperm. Testosterone is produced mainly by the testes, not the prostate gland. While the prostate gland does contribute to sperm mobility, its primary function is to produce the fluid that lubricates the penis during ejaculation. Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone is produced by the hypothalamus and regulates the release of hormones from the pituitary gland.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is the aortic valve. The aortic valve is located between the left ventricle and the aorta, preventing the backflow of blood into the left ventricle once it has been pumped out during systole. Choice A, pulmonic, is incorrect as it is associated with the right side of the heart. Choice B, mitral, is incorrect as it is the valve between the left atrium and ventricle. Choice C, tricuspid, is incorrect as it is located between the right atrium and ventricle.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Macrophages are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune system by engulfing and digesting cellular debris, foreign substances, microbes, cancer cells, and old or damaged cells. Basophils are primarily involved in allergic reactions and parasitic infections, eosinophils combat multicellular parasites and have a role in allergic reactions, and B-cells are responsible for producing antibodies. Therefore, the correct answer is macrophages as they are specialized in phagocytosis and removal of unwanted cells and microorganisms.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Sodium is the most abundant ion in extracellular fluid. It plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction. Calcium (Choice A) is mainly found in bones and teeth, Chloride (Choice B) is the major anion in extracellular fluid but not the most abundant ion, and Potassium (Choice D) is found predominantly inside cells.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is the Medulla Oblongata. This part of the brain is responsible for regulating essential autonomic functions such as heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure. The Corpus Callosum is responsible for connecting the left and right hemispheres of the brain, not for regulating these vital functions. The Pituitary Glands and Pineal Glands are part of the endocrine system and are not directly involved in regulating heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure.