1. What is the term for a repetitive, involuntary muscle contraction that can cause pain and stiffness?

A. Cramp
B. Spasm
C. Tic
D. Fibrosis

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Spasm.' A spasm is a sudden, involuntary muscle contraction that can cause pain and stiffness. Cramps are a type of spasm characterized by intense, localized pain and temporary muscle tightness. Tics are repetitive, involuntary movements or vocalizations. Fibrosis refers to the formation of excess fibrous connective tissue in an organ or tissue, not related to muscle contractions. Therefore, 'spasm' best fits the description provided in the question.

2. Which of the following is an example of a nosocomial infection?

A. The common cold contracted from a family member
B. A urinary tract infection (UTI) acquired during a catheterization
C. A fungal skin infection from contaminated soil
D. Food poisoning from undercooked chicken

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: A nosocomial infection, also known as a healthcare-associated infection (HAI), is an infection that is acquired in a healthcare setting. In this case, a UTI acquired during a catheterization procedure is a classic example of a nosocomial infection. Catheterization involves the insertion of a tube into the urinary tract, which can introduce bacteria into the urinary system and lead to an infection. Nosocomial infections are a significant concern in healthcare settings due to the potential for increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Let's review the other options: A) The common cold contracted from a family member - This is not a nosocomial infection as it is acquired outside of a healthcare setting. C) A fungal skin infection from contaminated soil - This is not a nosocomial infection as it is acquired from environmental exposure, not in a healthcare setting.

3. "Ironic" and "serious" are:

A. synonyms (have the same meaning)
B. antonyms (have opposite meanings)
C. homonyms (sound the same but have different meanings)
D. none of the above

Correct answer: B

Rationale: "Ironic" means the opposite of "serious."

4. What protein complex controls the progression of mitosis through its activation and degradation?

A. Ribosome
B. Cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK)
C. Centriole
D. Microtubule

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: A) Ribosome: Ribosomes are cellular organelles responsible for protein synthesis and are not directly involved in controlling the progression of mitosis. B) Cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK): CDKs are a family of protein kinases that regulate the cell cycle, including the progression of mitosis. CDK activity is controlled by cyclins, which bind to CDKs to activate them at specific points in the cell cycle. The activation and degradation of cyclins regulate the activity of CDKs, which in turn control the progression of mitosis. C) Centriole: Centrioles are involved in organizing the microtubules of the mitotic spindle but do not directly control the progression of mitosis. D) Microtubule: Microtubules are structural components of the cytoskeleton and are involved in various cellular processes, including mitosis, but they do not control

5. The phrase "green alternative" suggests that bioremediation is...

A. The most economical option for plastic cleanup.
B. Faster and more efficient than traditional methods.
C. Environmentally friendly and less harmful than other solutions.
D. More aesthetically pleasing than existing approaches.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The passage contrasts bioremediation with "traditional methods," explicitly linking it to being environmentally friendly.

6. Which of the following is NOT a symptom of asthma, a chronic respiratory condition?

A. Wheezing
B. Difficulty breathing
C. Chest tightness
D. Fever

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: "Fever." Fever is not a symptom commonly associated with asthma. Asthma symptoms typically include wheezing (A), difficulty breathing (B), and chest tightness (C). Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling sound that occurs during breathing, while difficulty breathing refers to the feeling of not getting enough air. Chest tightness is a common sensation of pressure or constriction in the chest. Fever is not a typical symptom of asthma but may occur in other respiratory conditions or infections. Therefore, fever is the correct answer as it does not align with the typical symptom profile of asthma.