1. Histamine, released during an allergic reaction, causes symptoms like:

A. Fever and fatigue
B. Runny nose and itchiness
C. Muscle aches and joint pain
D. Cough and shortness of breath

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Runny nose and itchiness.' Histamine is a chemical released by the body during an allergic reaction. It causes various symptoms such as itching, sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes. These symptoms are commonly associated with allergic reactions like hay fever or hives. Fever and fatigue (option A) are not directly caused by histamine release. Muscle aches and joint pain (option C) are not typical symptoms of histamine release during an allergic reaction. Cough and shortness of breath (option D) are more commonly associated with asthma or respiratory allergies rather than histamine release.

2. What is the most effective way to ensure clarity and conciseness in your writing?

A. Using complex sentence structures and passive voice.
B. Avoiding unnecessary repetition and redundant words.
C. Replacing simple words with more sophisticated synonyms.
D. Adding flowery introductions and lengthy conclusions.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Concise writing eliminates unnecessary words and uses active voice to express ideas directly and clearly.

3. What is the scientific term for the windpipe, a tube that carries air from the larynx to the bronchi?

A. Pharynx
B. Trachea
C. Epiglottis
D. Bronchiole

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Trachea. The trachea is the scientific term for the windpipe, which is a tube that carries air from the larynx to the bronchi. The pharynx is the throat area where the mouth and nasal passages meet. The epiglottis is a flap of tissue that covers the trachea during swallowing to prevent food from entering the airway. Bronchioles are smaller airway branches in the lungs. Therefore, the trachea best fits the description of a tube carrying air from the larynx to the bronchi.

4. Antibodies, crucial for immune defense, are produced by:

A. Neutrophils
B. Lymphocytes
C. Monocytes
D. Basophils

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Lymphocytes. Antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins, are produced by B lymphocytes (B cells) as a key component of the adaptive immune response. These specialized cells play a crucial role in recognizing and neutralizing pathogens, thereby providing immunity against infections. Neutrophils (A) are a type of white blood cell involved in innate immunity and phagocytosis. Monocytes (C) are another type of white blood cell that can differentiate into macrophages, which are important in phagocytosis and antigen presentation. Basophils (D) are involved in allergic responses and inflammation through the release of histamine. Lymphocytes, particularly B cells, are primarily responsible for antibody production in response to pathogens and foreign substances.

5. What is the significance of studying pedigrees in human genetics?

A. Predicting the exact outcome of genetic crosses in humans.
B. Tracing the inheritance of complex traits with multiple contributing genes.
C. Identifying carriers of dominant genetic disorders.
D. Determining the risk of acquiring a specific mutation de novo.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: Pedigrees are diagrams that show the relationships within a family and can be used to track the inheritance patterns of specific traits or diseases. While pedigrees can provide information on the inheritance of single gene disorders (such as identifying carriers of dominant genetic disorders, as mentioned in option C), their primary significance lies in studying complex traits with multiple contributing genes. These traits do not follow simple Mendelian inheritance patterns and are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. By analyzing pedigrees, researchers can identify patterns of inheritance for complex traits, such as polygenic diseases or traits influenced by gene-environment interactions. Therefore, option B is the most appropriate choice as it captures the main significance of studying pedigrees in human genetics.

6. Which hormone stimulates the release of calcium from bones and increases blood calcium levels?

A. Parathyroid hormone (PTH)
B. Calcitonin
C. Growth hormone
D. Testosterone

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Parathyroid hormone (PTH). PTH is produced by the parathyroid glands and plays a crucial role in regulating calcium levels in the blood. When blood calcium levels are low, PTH is released to stimulate the release of calcium from bones, increase calcium absorption in the intestines, and reduce calcium loss in the kidneys. This process helps to maintain the necessary balance of calcium in the body. Calcitonin, on the other hand, works in opposition to PTH by decreasing blood calcium levels. Growth hormone primarily stimulates growth and development of tissues, while testosterone is a male sex hormone and does not directly impact calcium regulation.