eosinophils are best described as which of the following

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS Science Practice Test

1. Which of the following best describes eosinophils?

A. A type of granulocyte that secretes histamine to stimulate the inflammatory response.
B. The most abundant type of white blood cell that secretes substances toxic to pathogens.
C. A type of granulocyte found under mucous membranes that defends against multicellular parasites.
D. A circulating granulocyte with high phagocytic activity and aggressiveness.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Eosinophils are best described as a type of granulocyte found under mucous membranes that defends against multicellular parasites. They release toxic substances to combat parasitic infections and play a significant role in allergic reactions and asthma. Histamine secretion to stimulate inflammation is more characteristic of basophils, while high phagocytic activity and aggressiveness are features of neutrophils, not eosinophils. Describing eosinophils as the most abundant type of white blood cell that secretes toxic substances to pathogens is inaccurate since eosinophils specifically target multicellular parasites, not a broad range of pathogens.

2. What potential consequences can chromosomal nondisjunction have on offspring?

A. Down syndrome, caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21.
B. Turner syndrome, characterized by the absence of one X chromosome in females.
C. Klinefelter syndrome, featuring one or more extra X chromosomes in males.
D. All of the above.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: - Chromosomal nondisjunction is the failure of homologous chromosomes or sister chromatids to separate properly during cell division, leading to an abnormal number of chromosomes in the resulting cells. - Down syndrome is caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21, resulting from nondisjunction during meiosis. Individuals with Down syndrome have three copies of chromosome 21 instead of the usual two. - Turner syndrome is characterized by the absence of one X chromosome in females, leading to a variety of physical and developmental features. - Klinefelter syndrome features one or more extra X chromosomes in males, typically resulting in infertility and other physical characteristics. Therefore, chromosomal nondisjunction can lead to various genetic disorders such as Down syndrome, Turner syndrome, and Klinefelter syndrome, making option D the correct answer.

3. What is the main function of dietary fiber in the digestive system?

A. To provide energy
B. To break down fats
C. To promote gut bacteria growth
D. To aid in absorption of nutrients

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Dietary fiber refers to the indigestible portion of plant foods that passes relatively intact through the digestive system. While fiber does not directly provide energy to the body, it plays a crucial role in promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. These bacteria help in the fermentation of fiber, producing short-chain fatty acids that can be used as an energy source by the body. Additionally, fiber aids in regulating bowel movements, maintaining gut health, and supporting overall digestive function. The functions described in the incorrect choices do not align with the primary role of dietary fiber in the digestive system. Choice A is incorrect because fiber itself is not a direct energy source. Choice B is incorrect as fiber does not break down fats. Choice D is incorrect because while fiber affects nutrient absorption indirectly by supporting gut health, its primary role is not to aid in the absorption of nutrients.

4. 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.

5. Which organ stores and concentrates bile?

A. Liver
B. Gallbladder
C. Pancreas
D. Stomach

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Gallbladder. The gallbladder is the organ that stores and concentrates bile produced by the liver. Bile is essential for the digestion of fats in the small intestine. The liver produces bile, which is then stored and concentrated in the gallbladder until it is released into the small intestine when needed. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the liver produces bile, the pancreas produces digestive enzymes, and the stomach is primarily involved in the digestion of food through acid secretion and mechanical processes, not in storing bile.