1. The Merkel cells, located in the epidermis, are specialized for:

A. Melanin production
B. Temperature sensation
C. Touch perception
D. Immune defense

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Touch perception.' Merkel cells, also known as Merkel discs, are found in the skin's epidermal layer and are responsible for sensing touch. These cells are located near nerve endings and help detect light touch and pressure on the skin. They play a crucial role in the perception of tactile sensations and are not involved in melanin production, temperature sensation, or immune defense. Therefore, the specialized function of Merkel cells is primarily related to touch perception, making option C the correct choice.

2. Bile, stored in the gallbladder, aids in the digestion of:

A. Carbohydrates
B. Proteins
C. Fats
D. Vitamins

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: "Fats." Bile, produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, plays a crucial role in the digestion and absorption of fats. When you consume fatty foods, bile is released into the small intestine to help break down the fats into smaller droplets, making it easier for enzymes to digest them. This process allows the body to absorb essential fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins. Carbohydrates are mainly digested by enzymes like amylase in the mouth and small intestine, while proteins are broken down by enzymes like pepsin and trypsin. Vitamins are not directly digested by bile but are absorbed along with fats in the small intestine. Therefore, the correct answer is C, as bile aids in the digestion of fats.

3. Which vitamin deficiency can lead to kidney stones?

A. Vitamin A
B. Vitamin B12
C. Vitamin D
D. Vitamin K

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Vitamin K. Vitamin K plays a role in blood clotting and bone health. A deficiency in Vitamin K can lead to an increased risk of kidney stones due to the improper regulation of calcium in the body. Calcium can accumulate in the kidneys and form stones if not properly managed. Vitamin K deficiency can disrupt the balance of calcium in the body, contributing to the development of kidney stones. Therefore, it is important to ensure an adequate intake of Vitamin K to prevent kidney stone formation.

4. What is the function of ribosomes?

A. Packaging and transporting proteins
B. Storing genetic material
C. Controlling cell division
D. Synthesizing proteins

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'Synthesizing proteins.' Ribosomes are the cellular organelles responsible for protein synthesis. They read the mRNA and assemble amino acids into proteins according to the genetic information encoded in the mRNA. This process is crucial for building and maintaining cellular structures, enzymes, and various other proteins essential for the functioning of the cell. Options A, B, and C do not accurately describe the primary function of ribosomes, making them incorrect choices for this question.

5. Frequent, painful urination is a common symptom of:

A. Diabetes
B. Urinary tract infection (UTI)
C. Kidney stones
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'All of the above.' Frequent, painful urination can be a symptom of various conditions affecting the urinary system. In diabetes, high blood sugar levels can lead to increased urine production. UTIs often cause painful urination due to the infection in the urinary tract. Kidney stones can also result in frequent and painful urination as they obstruct the flow of urine. Therefore, all three options can present with the common symptom of frequent, painful urination, making 'All of the above' the correct choice.