Why is peer review important in scientific research?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Peer review is crucial in scientific research to verify the accuracy and validity of research findings. By subjecting research papers to evaluation by experts in the field, peer review ensures that the study's methods, results, and conclusions are robust and reliable. This process helps to maintain high standards of quality in scientific publications, providing credibility to the research. Choices A and D are incorrect because the primary purpose of peer review is not to expedite publication or solely enhance credibility; its core function is to validate the research's accuracy and validity. Choice B, while beneficial, is not the primary reason for peer review; replication is a byproduct of the rigorous evaluation of research methods and findings.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Kilocalorie. The term kilocalorie, often referred to as a calorie, is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one kilogram of water by one degree Celsius. While Choice A, Calorie, is technically correct, it is not the most specific term for the described amount of heat. Choice B, Joule, is a unit of energy but not specifically related to the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of water. Choice C, Kilojoule, is also a unit of energy but not the precise term for the heat required to raise the temperature of water by one degree Celsius.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Difficulty breathing is a common symptom of congenital heart disease in infants. Infants with congenital heart disease may experience difficulty breathing due to impaired cardiac function, which affects the heart's ability to pump blood effectively. This symptom is often due to issues like heart failure or fluid accumulation in the lungs. Excessive weight gain (Choice A) is not typically associated with congenital heart disease in infants. High blood pressure (Choice C) is less common in infants with congenital heart disease compared to adults. Increased appetite (Choice D) is not a typical symptom of congenital heart disease in infants.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Topical corticosteroids are the correct answer for a child with moderate to severe eczema. These medications are commonly used to reduce inflammation and itching associated with eczema. Oral antibiotics (Choice B) are not typically used in eczema treatment unless there is a secondary bacterial infection. Frequent saline irrigation (Choice C) may aid in wound care but is not a primary treatment for eczema. A high-calcium diet (Choice D) is not a standard treatment for eczema and does not target the underlying inflammatory process that causes eczema symptoms.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When a child is newly diagnosed with a hearing impairment, it is essential to refer them for audiologic evaluation and intervention. This step is crucial to accurately assess the extent of the impairment, determine appropriate interventions, and support the child's communication and development. Increasing the volume of all auditory stimuli (choice A) is not a recommended approach as it may not address the specific needs of the child and could potentially cause discomfort. Avoiding the use of assistive devices (choice C) can hinder the child's ability to communicate effectively. Encouraging frequent use of headphones (choice D) is also not advisable as it may not be suitable for managing hearing impairments and could potentially worsen the condition.