1. Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy body tissues. What is a potential cause of autoimmune diseases?

A. Deficiency in essential vitamins and minerals
B. Exposure to environmental toxins
C. Breakdown in immune cell self-tolerance mechanisms
D. All of the above

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Autoimmune diseases are triggered by a breakdown in immune cell self-tolerance mechanisms, where the immune system fails to recognize 'self' from 'non-self' cells, leading to attacks on healthy tissues. While deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals or exposure to environmental toxins can impact immune function, the root cause of autoimmune diseases is primarily attributed to the breakdown in self-tolerance mechanisms. This breakdown can be influenced by genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and other triggers, leading to the development of autoimmune conditions.

2. What is the main function of peroxisomes in the cell?

A. To break down hydrogen peroxide
B. To synthesize lipids and other cellular components
C. To package and transport proteins
D. To store genetic material

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: Peroxisomes are membrane-bound organelles found in eukaryotic cells that contain enzymes involved in various metabolic processes. One of the main functions of peroxisomes is to break down hydrogen peroxide, a toxic byproduct of metabolism, into water and oxygen through the action of the enzyme catalase. This process helps protect the cell from oxidative damage caused by hydrogen peroxide. While peroxisomes are involved in other metabolic functions such as lipid metabolism and the synthesis of bile acids, their primary role is the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide.

3. Which of the following is the main function of the skin?

A. To protect the body from harm
B. To regulate body temperature
C. To produce hormones
D. To sense touch, temperature, and pain

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: A) To protect the body from harm: The skin acts as a physical barrier that protects the body from external threats such as pathogens, UV radiation, and physical injuries. It helps prevent infections and dehydration, making it a crucial function of the skin. B) To regulate body temperature: While the skin does play a role in regulating body temperature through processes like sweating and vasodilation/vasoconstriction, its primary function is protection. C) To produce hormones: Hormone production is primarily carried out by endocrine glands such as the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, and adrenal glands, not the skin. D) To sense touch, temperature, and pain: The skin contains sensory receptors that allow us to perceive touch, temperature, and pain, but this function is secondary to its main role of protecting the body from harm.

4. What is the process of making copies of DNA called?

A. Transcription
B. Translation
C. Replication
D. DNA repair

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: A) Transcription is the process of synthesizing RNA from a DNA template. It involves the creation of mRNA molecules from a DNA template. B) Translation is the process of synthesizing proteins from mRNA. During translation, the genetic code carried by mRNA is decoded to produce a specific sequence of amino acids, forming a protein. C) Replication is the process of making copies of DNA. This process occurs before cell division and ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical copy of the genetic material. D) DNA repair is a cellular mechanism that corrects errors in DNA that arise due to various factors such as exposure to mutagens or mistakes during DNA replication. It is essential for maintaining the integrity of the genetic material.

5. Based on the passage, the author's stance on AI is likely to be

A. Unconditionally enthusiastic, embracing all forms of AI development without reservations.
B. Cautiously optimistic, acknowledging both the potential and risks while advocating for responsible use.
C. Strongly critical, focusing solely on the potential dangers of AI and advocating for its complete halt.
D. Apathetic and indifferent, lacking any strong opinion on the impact or future of AI.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The emphasis on balancing benefits and risks suggests a cautious and balanced perspective, aligning with B.

6. Aseptic meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges caused by:

A. Bacteria
B. Viruses
C. Fungi
D. Parasites

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: Aseptic meningitis is typically caused by viral infections, such as enteroviruses (e.g., coxsackievirus, echovirus), herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster virus, and others. These viruses can infect the meninges, leading to inflammation and symptoms of meningitis without the presence of bacteria. While bacterial meningitis is a serious and life-threatening condition, aseptic meningitis caused by viruses is usually less severe and has a better prognosis. Fungi and parasites are less common causes of meningitis compared to bacteria and viruses.