1. Which vitamin is synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight?

A. Vitamin A
B. Vitamin C
C. Vitamin D
D. Vitamin E

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is Vitamin D (C). When the skin is exposed to sunlight, a compound in the skin is converted to Vitamin D. Vitamin A (A) is not synthesized in the skin but is found in foods like carrots and sweet potatoes. Vitamin C (B) is not synthesized in the skin either, but is found in citrus fruits and vegetables. Vitamin E (D) is not synthesized in the skin upon sunlight exposure, but is found in nuts and seeds.

2. The "master gland" of the endocrine system, located at the base of the brain, secretes various hormones that control other glands is the:

A. Thyroid gland
B. Pituitary gland
C. Adrenal gland
D. Pancreas

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is often referred to as the "master gland" because it plays a crucial role in regulating other endocrine glands in the body. It is located at the base of the brain and secretes various hormones that control functions such as growth, metabolism, reproduction, and stress response. The thyroid gland (A) regulates metabolism, the adrenal gland (C) produces hormones involved in stress response, and the pancreas (D) is primarily responsible for regulating blood sugar levels through insulin production, but they do not serve as the master gland of the endocrine system.

3. Which hormone, produced by the pituitary gland, stimulates the growth and development of bones, muscles, and organs?

A. Growth hormone (GH)
B. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)
C. Prolactin
D. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Growth hormone (GH). Growth hormone is produced by the pituitary gland and plays a crucial role in stimulating the growth and development of bones, muscles, and organs in the body. It promotes cell division, protein synthesis, and overall growth. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones, prolactin is involved in milk production after childbirth, and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is responsible for the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles in females and sperm production in males, but they do not directly impact the growth and development of bones, muscles, and organs. Therefore, growth hormone is the hormone specifically known for its role in promoting growth and development in these areas.

4. Which of the following is NOT a function of the muscular system?

A. Movement
B. Maintaining posture
C. Generating heat
D. Regulating blood sugar levels

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: "Regulating blood sugar levels." The muscular system primarily functions in movement, maintaining posture, and generating heat. Muscles contract and relax to allow movement and help us stay upright. They also produce heat through muscle contractions to maintain body temperature. Regulating blood sugar levels is primarily controlled by the endocrine system, specifically the pancreas and hormones like insulin and glucagon. Therefore, this function is not directly related to the muscular system.

5. The most common cause of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) are:

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs), also known as nosocomial infections, are infections that patients acquire during the course of receiving treatment in a healthcare facility. Among the options provided, bacteria are the most common cause of HAIs. Bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are known to cause a wide range of infections in healthcare settings. While viruses, fungi, and parasites can also cause HAIs, bacteria are the most prevalent and significant pathogens responsible for these infections. Proper infection control measures, including hand hygiene, environmental cleaning, and antimicrobial stewardship, are essential in preventing and controlling HAIs caused by bacteria.

6. A symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits and the other is not harmed is called:

A. Mutualism
B. Commensalism
C. Parasitism
D. Predation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: A) Mutualism: In mutualism, both organisms involved benefit from the relationship. B) Commensalism: In commensalism, one organism benefits while the other is neither helped nor harmed. This is the relationship described in the question. C) Parasitism: In parasitism, one organism benefits at the expense of the other organism, which is harmed. D) Predation: In predation, one organism (predator) kills and consumes another organism (prey) for food.