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Question 1
Incorrect
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One of the cells of the bone marrow that are responsible for forming the various forms of differentiated blood cells are called?
Your Answer: Progenitor cell
Correct Answer: Hematopoietic stem cell
Explanation:Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) or hemocytoblasts are the stem cells that give rise to all the other blood cells through the process of haematopoiesis. They are derived from mesoderm and located in the red bone marrow, which is contained in the core of most bones.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Medicine
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Question 2
Incorrect
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Myelin sheath in the CNS is produced by?
Your Answer: Microglial cells
Correct Answer: Oligodendrocytes
Explanation:CNS myelin is produced by special cells called oligodendrocytes. PNS myelin is produced by Schwann cells. The two types of myelin are chemically different, but they both perform the same function — to promote efficient transmission of a nerve impulse along the axon.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 3
Incorrect
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With regards to the Na+/K+ ATPase, which one of the following is correct?
Your Answer: 3 Na+ released into the cell
Correct Answer: 3 Na+ released into the extracellular fluid
Explanation:Na+/K+ pump or sodium–potassium pump is an enzyme found in the plasma membrane. This pumping is active (i.e. it uses energy from ATP) and is important for cell physiology. Its simple function is to pump 3 sodium ions out for every 2 potassium ions taken in and since they both have equal ionic charges, this creates a electrochemical gradient between a cell and its exterior.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Biology
- Medicine
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Question 4
Incorrect
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Regarding restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLP) and Gene Knockout Mouse Models. All are true except:
Your Answer: Sequence changes involved in RFLP can be analysed more quickly by PCR.
Correct Answer: In knockout mouse models a gene is turned on through targeted mutation
Explanation:In RFLP, polymorphism occurs in 98% of the non coding genome, resulting in no phenotypical change in the organism. A gene is not turned on by a mutation, rather the mutation at the restriction site will alter the DNA and the DNA will now form fragments of different lengths. PCR is a better technique than RFLP.
A knockout, as related to genomics, refers to the use of genetic engineering to inactivate or remove one or more specific genes from an organism. Scientists create knockout organisms to study the impact of removing a gene from an organism, which often allows them to then learn something about that gene’s function.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Genetics
- Medicine
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Question 5
Correct
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What is the correct formula to calculate the positive predictive value?(TP = true positive; FP = false positive; TN = true negative; FN = false negative)
Your Answer: TP / (TP + FP)
Explanation:Positive predictive value is the probability that subjects with a positive screening test truly have the disease.Positive predictive value = true positive / ( true positive + false positive)
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Research Skills
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Question 6
Correct
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Which of the following would be the most appropriate treatment (leaving out the current NICE guidelines) for a 29 year old man with erythrodermic psoriasis and arthritis mutilans involving several digits of both hands?
Your Answer: Etanercept
Explanation:TNF-alpha inhibitors are known to ameliorate the symptoms and disease activity of Arthritis mutilans (a rare and severe form of psoriatic arthritis), by disabling the cytokines that are involved in inflammation and joint destruction. From the mentioned choices, this would be the most effective option. Methotrexate is the most commonly used DMARD, followed by sulfasalazine used in mild to moderate forms of psoriatic arthritis but has not shown much efficacy in arthritis mutilans. Phototherapy, narrowband UVB light therapy can be very effective in clearing skin lesions.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Connective Tissue
- Medicine
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Question 7
Correct
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After exercise, O2 debt repay may take up to:
Your Answer: 90 min
Explanation:Physical activity or exercise requires oxygen for production of ATP or energy via aerobic pathways of energy production. When the amount of oxygen that reaches muscles depletes, cells start producing energy anaerobically by partial breakdown of glucose resulting in lactic acid. Lactic acid should be removed from cells as it causes muscle fatigue. Oxygen is needed to oxidize lactic acid in to carbon dioxide and water and this need is known as oxygen debt. The existence of an oxygen debt explains why we continue to breathe deeply and quickly for a while after exercise. This may take up from 60 – 90 mins.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Respiratory
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Question 8
Correct
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Which of the following statements correctly describes a function of the parasympathetic innervation of the GI tract.
Your Answer: Parasympathetic cholinergic activity increases the activity of intestinal smooth muscle
Explanation:The parasympathetic nerves stimulate peristalsis and relax the sphincters; they also stimulate secretion. Acetylcholine is the neurotransmitter of the parasympathetic system.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
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Question 9
Correct
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Eosinophils provide immunity against
Your Answer: Multi cellular parasites
Explanation:Eosinophils, are a variety of white blood cells and one of the immune system components responsible for combating multicellular parasites and certain infections in vertebrates.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Immunology
- Medicine
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Question 10
Incorrect
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Which of the following is an example of a ketone body?
Your Answer: Acetyl CoA
Correct Answer: Acetoacetate
Explanation:Ketone bodies are three water-soluble molecules (acetoacetate, beta-hydroxybutyrate, and their spontaneous breakdown product, acetone) that are produced by the liver from fatty acids during periods of low food intake (fasting), carbohydrate restrictive diets, starvation, prolonged intense exercise, alcoholism or in untreated (or inadequately treated) type 1 diabetes mellitus.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Metabolism
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Question 11
Incorrect
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Depolarization of the T tubule membrane activates the sarcoplasmic reticulum via which receptors?
Your Answer: Ryanodine receptors
Correct Answer: Dihydropyridine receptors
Explanation:Action potentials are transmitted to the fibrils of a fiber through the T tubule system. It triggers the release of Ca 2+ form the terminal cisterns. Depolarization of the T tubules activates the sarcoplasmic reticulum through the dihydropyridine receptors.
Dihydropyridine receptors (DHPRs), are voltage-gated Ca2+ channels, and ryanodine receptors (RyRs), which are intracellular Ca2+ release channels, are expressed in diverse cell types, including skeletal and cardiac muscle.
Ryanodine receptors (RyRs) are located in the sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum membrane and are responsible for the release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores during excitation-contraction coupling in both cardiac and skeletal muscle.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 12
Correct
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The hepatic portal vein:
Your Answer: Carries mainly nutrients from the GIT.
Explanation:The portal vein contains oxygen as any other vein in the body does. The hepatic veins are responsible for venous drainage of the liver. The main function of the portal vein is to carry absorbed nutrients in the gut for metabolism and detoxification.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
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Question 13
Correct
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The breakdown of superoxide is catalysed by which enzyme?
Your Answer: Superoxide dismutase
Explanation:As superoxide is toxic, nearly all organisms living in the presence of oxygen contain isoforms of the superoxide-scavenging enzyme superoxide dismutase, or SOD. SOD is an extremely efficient enzyme; it catalyses the neutralization of superoxide nearly as quickly as the two can diffuse together spontaneously in solution.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Biology
- Medicine
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Question 14
Incorrect
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The blood supply to the greater curvature of the stomach is via the:
Your Answer: Gastroduodenal artery
Correct Answer: Right and left gastro-epiploic arteries
Explanation:The blood supply to the greater curvature of the stomach is via the left and the right gastro-epiploic arteries branching from the splenic artery near the hilum.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
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Question 15
Correct
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Which one of these features is typical of dermatomyositis?
Your Answer: Gottron's papules over knuckles of fingers
Explanation:Dermatomyositis is a long-term inflammatory disorder which affects muscles. Its symptoms are generally a skin rash and worsening muscle weakness in the proximal muscles (for example, the shoulders and thighs) over time. These may occur suddenly or develop over months. Other symptoms may include weight loss, fever, lung inflammation, or light sensitivity. Complications may include calcium deposits in muscles or skin.The skin rash may manifest as aheliotrope (a purplish color) or lilac, but may also be red. It can occur around the eyes along with swelling, as well as the upper chest or back ( shawl sign) or V-sign above the breasts and may also occur on the face, upper arms, thighs, or hands. Another form the rash takes is called Gottron’s sign which are red or violet, sometimes scaly, slightly raised papules that erupt on any of the finger joints (the metacarpophalangeal joints or the interphalangeal joints)
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Dermatology
- Medicine
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Question 16
Correct
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Question 17
Incorrect
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In the blood supply of the heart, ‘dominance’ refers to the coronary artery which supplies the?
Your Answer: Left ventricle
Correct Answer: Posterior interventricular artery
Explanation:Dominance of the coronary artery system is defined by the artery that gives rise to the posterior interventricular artery. Dominance of the right coronary artery is more common (68%). It gives rise to the large posterior interventricular branch which goes down to the apex of the heart.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 18
Incorrect
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In adults, the major site of haematopoiesis is?
Your Answer: The proximal ends of long bones
Correct Answer: The axial skeleton
Explanation:Bone marrow is the flexible tissue in the interior of bones. In humans, red blood cells are produced by cores of bone marrow in the heads of long bones.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Medicine
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Question 19
Incorrect
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Where is the lower border of the liver usually found?
Your Answer: 8th rib midclavicular line on right
Correct Answer: 10th rib anterior axillary line on right
Explanation:Assessment of liver margins is important clinically to determine the size of the liver and is done via percussion during the physical examination. The liver typically extends from the fifth intercostal space or 6th rib to the right costal margin in the midclavicular line and the 10th rib on anterior axillary line.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Hepatobiliary
- Medicine
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Question 20
Correct
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Which ion channel is a dimer?
Your Answer: Cl- channel
Explanation:A dimer is a chemical structure formed from two similar sub-units. Chloride channels or exchangers are composed of two similar subunits—a dimer—each subunit containing one pore.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Biology
- Medicine
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Question 21
Correct
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Pacemaker cells in the SA node and the AV node are connected by?
Your Answer: Gap junctions
Explanation:Gap junctions allows for rapid propagation of the action potential from one cell to the other. The cells of the heart are connected by gap junctions.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 22
Incorrect
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Which membrane bound protein in the sarcoplasmic reticulum regulates calcium return from the cytosol to the sarcoplasmic reticulum?
Your Answer: Calmodulin
Correct Answer: Phospholamban
Explanation:Phosphorylation of phospholamban increases calcium ATPase activity and sequestration of calcium in the sarcoplasmic reticulum. An increased rate of relaxation is explained because cAMP also activates the protein phospholamban, situated on the membrane of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR), that controls the rate of uptake of calcium into the SR. The latter effect explains enhanced relaxation (lusitropic effect).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 23
Correct
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Concerning the sleep-wake cycle, Melatonin is secreted by which structure in the brain following which environmental conditions?
Your Answer: Pineal gland, darkness
Explanation:Melatonin is secreted by the pineal gland located in the midline attached to the posterior roof of the third ventricle in the brain. Melatonin affects circadian rhythm in the body or the sleep wake cycle. The precursor to melatonin is serotonin and the rate limiting enzyme that converts serotonin to melatonin is low during the day time and reaches its peak during the night.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 24
Incorrect
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The midbrain, medulla and pons, contain the following cranial nerve nuclei?
Your Answer: CN 5 – 12
Correct Answer: CN 3 - 12
Explanation:The cranial nerves (with the exception of I and II) originate in the brainstem, which includes the midbrain, the pons, and the medulla.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 25
Correct
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With regard to the cell membrane:
Your Answer: It consists of an outer hydrophilic & an inner hydrophobic layer
Explanation:The cell membrane consists primarily of a thin layer of amphipathic phospholipids that spontaneously arrange with the hydrophobic tail regions on the inside and the hydrophilic head regions outside. Membranes typically have a large content of proteins, around 50% of membrane volume.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Biology
- Medicine
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Question 26
Incorrect
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Which part of the cerebellum is primarily responsible for interacting with the motor cortex and planning and programming movements?
Your Answer: Flocculonodular lobe
Correct Answer: Cerebrocerebellum
Explanation:The cerebrocerebellum is the largest functional subdivision of the cerebellum, comprising of the lateral hemispheres and the dentate nuclei. It is involved in the planning and timing of movements, and in the cognitive functions of the cerebellum.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 27
Correct
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ADH causes?
Your Answer: Increased permeability of the collecting ducts to water
Explanation:Vasopressin (ADH) has three main effects:1. Increasing the water permeability of distal convoluted tubule and collecting duct cells in the kidney, thus allowing water reabsorption and excretion of more concentrated urine.2. Increasing permeability of the inner medullary portion of the collecting duct to urea by regulating the cell surface expression of urea transporters.3. Acute increase of sodium absorption across the ascending loop of Henle.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Renal
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Question 28
Incorrect
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Which of the following stimulate the release of aldosterone from the adrenal cortex?
Your Answer: Renin
Correct Answer: Angiotensin 2
Explanation:Angiotensin II also stimulates the secretion of the hormone aldosterone from the adrenal cortex. Aldosterone causes the renal tubules to increase the reabsorption of sodium and water into the blood, while at the same time causing the excretion of potassium (to maintain electrolyte balance).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Renal
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Question 29
Correct
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Currents caused by opening of which of the following channels contribute to the repolarization phase of the action potential of the ventricular muscle fibers?
Your Answer: Potassium channels
Explanation:Depolarization occurs due to opening of the voltage gated sodium channels. Repolarization occurs due to opening of the voltage gates potassium channels causing an out flux of potassium ions, decreasing the membrane potential towards resting potential.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 30
Correct
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In the jugular venous pressure wave…
Your Answer: Consists of 3 peaks and 2 troughs
Explanation:The jugular venous pressure (JVP, sometimes referred to as jugular venous pulse) is the indirectly observed pressure over the venous system via visualization of the internal jugular vein. It can be useful in the differentiation of different forms of heart and lung disease. Classically three upward deflections (peaks) and two downward deflections (troughs) have been described:The upward deflections are the a (atrial contraction), c (ventricular contraction and resulting bulging of tricuspid into the right atrium during isovolumetric systole) and v = venous filling.The downward deflections of the wave are the x (the atrium relaxes and the tricuspid valve moves downward) and the y descent (filling of ventricle after tricuspid opening).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 31
Correct
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Question 32
Correct
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The brainstem contains which of the following structures?
Your Answer: The midbrain, pons and medulla
Explanation:Brain stem is the base of the brain that connects the brain to the spinal cord. It consists of the mid brain, pons and medulla oblongata.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 33
Correct
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Where does the anterior pituitary receive most of its blood supply?
Your Answer: Portal hypophysial vessels
Explanation:The anterior pituitary receives its arterial supply from the superior hypophyseal artery, which is a branch of the internal carotid that forms a capillary around the hypothalamus; thus forming the hypothalamo-hypophysial portal system.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
- Medicine
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Question 34
Correct
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The net effect of parathyroid hormone on calcium and phosphate homeostasis is?
Your Answer: Increase in Ca, decrease in phosphate
Explanation:Parathyroid hormone’s main target organs are the kidneys, bone, and intestine. In the kidney, it decreases reabsorption of phosphate and increases calcium reabsorption. It also promotes absorption of calcium from bone. PTH release results in a small drop in serum phosphate concentrations.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
- Medicine
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Question 35
Correct
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The consensual light reflex is co-ordinated mainly in the:
Your Answer: Edinger-Westphal nucleus
Explanation:The consensual light reflex occurs when an individual’s right eye is shielded and light shines into the left eye, constriction of the right pupil will occur, as well as the left. This is because the afferent signal sent through one optic nerve connects to the Edinger-Westphal nucleus, whose axons run to both the right and the left oculomotor nerves.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 36
Incorrect
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Functions of the glossopharyngeal nerve include the following except:
Your Answer: Parasympathetic supply to the parotid gland to cause salivation
Correct Answer: Proprioceptive input from muscles of the tongue and larynx
Explanation:The glossopharyngeal nerve is a mixed nerve consisting of both sensory and motor fibers. It has several branches and five distinct general functions:Branchial motor- Special visceral efferent- supplies the Stylopharyngeus muscle and superior constrictor muscle.Visceral motor- general visceral efferent- provides parasympathetic innervation of the parotid gland.Visceral sensory- general visceral afferent- carries visceral sensory information from the carotid sinus and carotid body.General sensory- general somatic afferent- provides general sensory information from the inner surface of the tympanic membrane, upper pharynx and posterior one third of the tongue.Visceral afferent- special visceral afferent- provides taste sensation from the posterior one third of the tongue including the circumvallate papillae.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 37
Correct
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Interruption of the entero-hepatic circulation causes:
Your Answer: The amount of fat in the stool to be increased
Explanation:Enterohepatic circulation refers to the circulation of biliary acids, bilirubin, drugs, or other substances from the liver to the bile, followed by entry into the small intestine, absorption by the enterocyte and transport back to the liver. One of the causes of the interruption of enterohepatic circulation is the resection of the ileum where fat is mainly absorbed. Fat malabsorption results in increased fat in stools. Pale stools and dark urine is caused by obstruction of the biliary ductal system especially the common bile duct where urobilin and stercobilin are formed.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
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Question 38
Incorrect
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The nucleus ambiguus:
Your Answer: All of the above
Correct Answer: Regulates swallowing, phonation and parasympathetic supply to the heart via CN IX, X and XI
Explanation:Nucleus Ambiguus is a group of large motor neurons found deep in the medullary reticular formation. It contains cell bodies of nerves that are responsible for the innervation of muscles of speech and swallowing which are located in the soft palate, pharynx and larynx. Additionally, it contains cholinergic preganglionic parasympathetic neurons of the heart via CN X, IX and XI
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 39
Correct
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A 47-year-old woman diagnosed with oestrogen receptor positive breast cancer three months ago was started on treatment with tamoxifen. Which of the following is most likely a complaint of this patient during her review today?
Your Answer: Hot flushes
Explanation:The most likely complaint of this patient would be hot flushes.
Alopecia and cataracts are listed as possible side-effects, however they are not as prevalent as hot flushes, which are very common in pre-menopausal women.
Tamoxifen is a Selective Oestrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM) which acts as an oestrogen receptor antagonist and partial agonist. It is used in the management of oestrogen receptor-positive breast cancer
Adverse effects:
- Menstrual disturbance: vaginal bleeding, amenorrhoea
- Hot flushes – 3% of patients stop taking tamoxifen due to climacteric side-effects.
- Venous thromboembolism.
- Endometrial cancer (although antagonistic with respects to breast tissue, tamoxifen may serve as an agonist at other sites. Therefore the risk of endometrial cancer is increased). Raloxifene is a pure oestrogen receptor antagonist and carries a lower risk of endometrial cancer.
Tamoxifen is typically used for 5 years following the removal of the tumour.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 40
Correct
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All of the following are Vitamin K-dependent clotting factors except:
Your Answer: Factor XI
Explanation:Activated Vitamin K is used to gamma carboxylate (and thus activate) certain enzymes involved in coagulation: Factors II, VII, IX, X, and protein C and protein S. Inability to activate the clotting cascade via these factors leads to the bleeding symptoms
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Medicine
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Question 41
Incorrect
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The functional unit of the liver is called?
Your Answer: Hepatic triad
Correct Answer: Acini
Explanation:From a metabolic perspective, the functional unit is the hepatic acinus (terminal acinus), each of which is centred on the line connecting two portal triads and extends outwards to the two adjacent central veins. The periportal zone I is nearest to the entering vascular supply and receives the most oxygenated blood, making it least sensitive to ischemic injury while making it very susceptible to viral hepatitis. Conversely, the centrilobular zone III has the poorest oxygenation, and will be most affected during a time of ischemia.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Hepatobiliary
- Medicine
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Question 42
Correct
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An 87-year-old woman had to double up her dosage of morphine 60mg into 120mg twice a day, in addition to another 10mg oral Morphine 6 times a day. What is the best method of management?
Your Answer: Subcutaneous morphine infusion
Explanation:Stable dose of Morphine is essential for chronic cases of pain that are non-malignant in origin. Using the SC route avoids having to intravenously cannulate a patient and allows for a continuous infusion of drugs over a calculated period of time providing constant dosing A significant advantage is that plasma levels of a drug are much more stable, and appropriate symptom control can be achieved without the toxic effects of the peaks and troughs resulting from episodic drug administration.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Geriatrics
- Medicine
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Question 43
Correct
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Vitamin K deficiency can be found in which of the following condition?
Your Answer: Cholestatic jaundice
Explanation:Vitamin K1-deficiency may occur by disturbed intestinal uptake (such as would occur in a bile duct obstruction), by therapeutic or accidental intake of a vitamin K1-antagonist such as warfarin, or, very rarely, by nutritional vitamin K1 deficiency.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Medicine
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Question 44
Incorrect
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Cholinergic neurons that pass into a retrograde direction activate neurons that release:
Your Answer: Acetyl choline
Correct Answer: Substance P and acetyl choline
Explanation:Serotonin activates sensory neurons that activate the myenteric plexus. Cholinergic neurons passing in a retrograde direction in the myenteric plexus activate neurons that release substance P and acetylcholine, causing smooth muscle contraction.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
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Question 45
Correct
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Which of the following diseases have antibodies available for treatment of the condition.
Your Answer: None of these
Explanation:There is no specific treatment for hepatitis A. Recovery from symptoms following infection may be slow and may take several weeks or months. The hepatitis A vaccine is effective for prevention and appears to be effective for life.Acute hepatitis B infection does not usually require treatment and most adults clear the infection spontaneously. Early antiviral treatment may be required in fewer than 1% of people, whose infection takes a very aggressive course (fulminant hepatitis) or who are immunocompromised. Although none of the available drugs can clear the infection, they can stop the virus from replicating, thus minimizing liver damage.There is no specific treatment for measles. Most people with uncomplicated measles will recover with rest and supportive treatment. In developed countries, children are immunized against measles at 12 months, generally as part of a three-part MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella). The vaccination is generally not given before this age because such infants respond inadequately to the vaccine due to an immature immune system. Treatment after rabies exposure can prevent the disease if administered promptly, generally within 10 days of infection. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention recommends people receive one dose of human rabies immunoglobulin (HRIG) and four doses of rabies vaccine over a 14-day period.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Infectious Diseases
- Medicine
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Question 46
Correct
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Which of the toxin secretion pathways in the cell membrane of gram– bacteria delivers the toxin extracellular in a 2 stage process to the host?
Your Answer: II
Explanation:Gram negative bacteria contain two membranes and there are about six specialized secretion systems. The secreted proteins play a key role in pathogenesis. Type II secretion systems (T2SS) are conserved in most Gram-negative bacteria, where they transport proteins from the periplasm into the extracellular environment. Because the T2SS channel is only found in the outer membrane, proteins secreted through this apparatus must first be delivered to the periplasm via the Sec or Tat secretion pathways and then to the extracellular environment making it a two-stage process.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Infectious Diseases
- Medicine
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Question 47
Correct
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In a normal heart rate at rest, the left ventricular end-diastolic volume is ….
Your Answer: 100-130 ml
Explanation:In cardiovascular physiology, end-diastolic volume (EDV) is the volume of blood in the right and/or left ventricle at end load or filling in (diastole) or the amount of blood in the ventricles just before systole. Because greater EDVs cause greater distention of the ventricle, EDV is often used synonymously with preload, which refers to the length of the sarcomeres in cardiac muscle prior to contraction (systole). End-diastolic volume: Right = 144 mL(± 23mL) & Left = 142 mL (± 21 mL).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 48
Correct
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The process where by DNA fragments are separated by size and charge is called:
Your Answer: Gel electrophoresis
Explanation:Fragments of DNA of varying length can be separated on the basis of their charge and their size by a process called gel electrophoresis. Because DNA contains negatively charged phosphate groups, it will migrate in an electric field toward the positive electrode. Shorter chains migrate more rapidly through the pores of the gel, and thus separation depends on length. DNA bands in the gel can be visualized by various techniques including staining with dyes and autoradiography.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Genetics
- Medicine
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Question 49
Correct
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The mitochondrial chromosome is a circular DNA molecule. They encode for proteins needed for ATP production. These proteins are also essential for:
Your Answer: Apoptotic cell death
Explanation:The intrinsic pathway or the mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis is activated due to the loss of BCL-2 and other antiapoptotic proteins. This loss results in the increased membrane permeability and release of cytochrome C which activates caspases downstream resulting in apoptosis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Genetics
- Medicine
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Question 50
Correct
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Cyclic AMP is formed from ATP via which enzyme
Your Answer: Adenylate cyclase
Explanation:Cyclic AMP is synthesized from ATP by adenylate cyclase located on the inner side of the plasma membrane and anchored at various locations in the interior of the cell.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Biology
- Medicine
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Question 51
Incorrect
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A 45 year old man, known case of hypothyroidism, presents with a 3 month history of pain and stiffness in the joints of his hands and feet. He also complains of dyspnoea occurring for the past 6 weeks. On examination there is a right pleural effusion and swollen hand joints. The clinician makes a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. Which of the following is most characteristic of a rheumatoid pleural effusion?
Your Answer: It has a high pH
Correct Answer: It has a low glucose level
Explanation:The typical “rheumatoid effusion” is a sterile exudative fluid with low pH (<7.3), low glucose (700 IU). It should initially be treated with NSAIDs. Decortication should be reserved in patients with thickened pleura who have symptomatic dyspnoea.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Connective Tissue
- Medicine
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Question 52
Correct
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A 20-year-old female has been admitted with an acute infection. She gives a history suggestive of hypersensitivity to amoxicillin. After consultation with the allergy specialist, she has now been diagnosed with an IgE mediated penicillin allergy. Which of the following drugs should be avoided in this patient?
Your Answer: Cefalexin
Explanation:Cefalexin should be avoided in this patient.This patient is known to have a severe penicillin allergy. None of the above antibiotics are penicillin based. However, 0.5 – 6.5% of patients who are proven to have an IgE mediated penicillin allergy will also be allergic to cephalosporins, including cefalexin. Penicillin, cephalosporins, and carbapenems are all members of the beta-lactam group of antibiotics and share a common beta-lactam ring. There is, therefore, a small risk of allergy cross-over between all these antibiotics. The rates of allergy cross-over are lower with second and third-generation cephalosporins than first-generation cephalosporins such as cefalexin.It is important to question the patient carefully to ascertain what symptoms they had on exposure to penicillin. Symptoms such as an urticarial rash or itching make it more likely that they have an IgE mediated allergy.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 53
Correct
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Phosphate absorption in the proximal tubules is via which transporting molecule?
Your Answer: Na/Pi co transporter
Explanation:Sodium/phosphate cotransporters are located in the renal proximal tubular brush border, and are the key elements in proximal tubular phosphate reabsorption and phosphate homeostasis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
- Medicine
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Question 54
Incorrect
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Which one of the following is least associated with photosensitivity?
Your Answer: Psoriasis
Correct Answer: Acute intermittent porphyria
Explanation:Sunlight, especially its ultraviolet radiation component, can cause increased or additional types of damage in predisposed individuals, such as those taking certain phototoxic drugs, or those with certain conditions associated with photosensitivity, including:- Psoriasis- Atopic eczema- Erythema multiforme- Seborrheic dermatitis- Autoimmune bullous diseases (immunobullous diseases)- Mycosis fungoides- Smith–Lemli–Opitz syndrome- Porphyria cutanea tardaAlso, many conditions are aggravated by strong light, including:- Systemic lupus erythematosus- Sjögren’s syndrome- Sinear Usher syndrome- Rosacea- Dermatomyositis- Darier’s disease- Kindler-Weary syndromeAcute intermittent porphyria (AIP) belongs to the group inborn errors of metabolism and most patients with AIP are not light sensitive.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Dermatology
- Medicine
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Question 55
Correct
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With regards to the cell cycle, which phase represents period of cell growth that divides the end of DNA synthesis and the beginning of somatic cell division?
Your Answer: Gap 2
Explanation:Interphase is divided into three phases: G1 (first gap), S (synthesis), and G2 (second gap). During all three parts of interphase, the cell grows by producing proteins and cytoplasmic organelles. However, chromosomes are replicated only during the S phase. Thus, a cell grows (G1), continues to grow as it duplicates its chromosomes (S), grows more and prepares for mitosis (G2), and finally divides (M) before restarting the cycle.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Biology
- Medicine
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Question 56
Correct
-
Which of the following is a product of D cells
Your Answer: Somatostatin
Explanation:Somatostatin is secreted by D cells, HCL and intrinsic factor secreted by parietal cells. Trefoil peptides are secreted by mucus secreting goblet cells and gastrin releasing peptide (grp) by post-ganglionic fibers of the vagus nerve (which innervate the G cells of the stomach).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
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Question 57
Incorrect
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Chief cells secrete:
Your Answer: Histamine and pepsinogen
Correct Answer: Pepsinogen and gastric lipase
Explanation:A gastric chief cell (or peptic cell, or gastric zymogenic cell) is a type of cell in the stomach that releases pepsinogen and gastric lipase.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
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Question 58
Correct
-
Which enzyme deficiency causes Beriberi?
Your Answer: Thiamine
Explanation:Beriberi refers to a cluster of symptoms caused primarily by thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency. Symptoms of beriberi include weight loss, emotional disturbances, impaired sensory perception, weakness and pain in the limbs, and periods of irregular heart rate.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Medicine
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Question 59
Correct
-
In which cell would you find a Nissl body?
Your Answer: Bipolar neuron
Explanation:Nissl bodies are the structures of protein synthesis in neurones. They are granular bodies of Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum and ribosomes. Astrocytes, Microglia, Schwann cell, oligodendrocytes are collectively known as glia or supporting cells of the nervous system.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 60
Correct
-
A 30-year-old woman is admitted for drainage of an abscess in her left forearm. She has revealed that she was regular heroin user and has stopped for the past few days. Clinical signs are pointing towards opioid withdrawal. What is the next step in managing this patient?
Your Answer: Give her 10 mg of methadone syrup and wait 60 min to determine its effect
Explanation:The next step in managing this patient is to give 10 mg and continue administering in 10 mg increments each hour until symptoms are under control.Methadone alleviates opioid withdrawal symptoms and reduces cravings. Methadone is useful for detoxification from longer-acting opioids such as morphine or methadone itself.Methadone should be used with caution if the patient has:Respiratory deficiencyAcute alcohol dependenceHead injuryTreatment with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)Ulcerating colitis or Crohn’s diseaseSevere hepatic impairmentThe dose must be reviewed on a daily basis and adjusted based upon how well the symptoms are controlled and the presence of side effects. The greater the dose of opioids used by the patient, the greater the dose of methadone required to control withdrawal symptoms. To avoid the risk of overdose in the first days of treatment The recommended dosing of methadone is 30mg in two doses of 15mg morning and evening.It is important to note that a methadone dose equivalent to what the patient reports they are taking should never be given. It is rare to need more than 40 mg per 24 hours: beware of overdosing which can lead to respiratory arrest.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 61
Correct
-
Cholinergic vagal supply to the SA and AV nodes results in slowing of the heart rate via:
Your Answer: M2 muscarinic receptors
Explanation:M2 muscarinic receptors are the receptors for the parasympathetic system to the SA and the AV node.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 62
Correct
-
Of the daily production of CSF, the vast majority is produced in the:
Your Answer: Choroid plexus
Explanation:About 80% of CSF is produced by the choroid plexus. It is also produced by a single layer of column shaped ependymal cells.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 63
Correct
-
In Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP), the DNA fragments are separated by length through a process known as:
Your Answer: Gel electrophoresis
Explanation:Samples of DNA from individuals are broken into pieces by restriction enzymes and the fragments are separated according to their lengths via gel electrophoresis. Although now largely obsolete due to the rise of inexpensive DNA sequencing technologies, RFLP analysis was the first DNA profiling technique inexpensive enough to see widespread application.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Genetics
- Medicine
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Question 64
Correct
-
Concerning surface anatomy, where is the mitral valve found?
Your Answer: Situated in the 4th intercostal space to the left of the sternum
Explanation:The mitral valve is situated in the left 4th intercostal space just beneath the sternum.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 65
Correct
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Which of the following drugs requires plasma level monitoring?
Your Answer: Vancomycin
Explanation:All patients require plasma-vancomycin measurement (after 3 or 4 doses if renal function normal, earlier if renal impairment). There is a risk of nephrotoxicity including renal failure, interstitial nephritis and ototoxicity.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 66
Correct
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Question 67
Correct
-
Which vitamin is found in NAD and NADP?
Your Answer: Vitamin B3
Explanation:In organisms, NAD can be synthesized from simple building-blocks (de novo) from the amino acids tryptophan or aspartic acid. In an alternative fashion, more complex components of the coenzymes are taken up from food as the vitamin called niacin (vitamin B3)
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Medicine
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Question 68
Correct
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Which of the following hormones cause negative feedback on the CRH/ACTH axis?
Your Answer: Cortisol
Explanation:The hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, also known as HPA axis is a set of interactions that regulate the secretion of several hormones through negative feedback. Cortisol, for example, is produced by the adrenal cortex, binds to its receptors in the hypothalamus and adenohypophysis and inhibits secretion of corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). The drop in CRH secretion leads to a decrease in ACTH secretion, which in turn causes less cortisol to be secreted.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
- Medicine
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Question 69
Correct
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Question 70
Correct
-
Which of the following factors is directly responsible for the breakdown of fibrinogen to fibrin?
Your Answer: Thrombin
Explanation:Prothrombin (coagulation factor II) is proteolytically cleaved to form thrombin in the coagulation cascade, the clotting process. Thrombin in turn acts as a serine protease that converts soluble fibrinogen into insoluble strands of fibrin, as well as catalysing many other coagulation-related reactions.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Medicine
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Question 71
Incorrect
-
The Afferent neuron that supplies all sensory elements of the muscle spindle is what type of sensory neuron?
Your Answer: IIb
Correct Answer: Ia
Explanation:Muscle spindle is supplied by both sensory and motor nerves. Sensory supply is Type Ia fibers whereas motor supply is gamma motor neurone.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 72
Incorrect
-
The hyperpolarization phase of pacemaker cells is dominated by ____ current.
Your Answer: Ca++
Correct Answer: K+
Explanation:The hyperpolarization phase is a continuation of the repolarization phase but the membrane potential dips below the resting membrane potential. This results due to the fact that the K+ channels take a longer time to close than the Na+ channels. Hence efflux of the K+ will result in hyperpolarization.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 73
Correct
-
What is the primary cause of ketoacidosis in Type 1 diabetes?
Your Answer: Lipolysis
Explanation:in type 1 diabetics the lack of insulin in the bloodstream prevents glucose absorption, thereby inhibiting the production of oxaloacetate (a crucial precursor to the β-oxidation of fatty acids) through reduced levels of pyruvate (a by-product of glycolysis), and can cause unchecked ketone body production (through fatty acid metabolism or lipolysis) potentially leading to dangerous glucose and ketone levels in the blood.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
- Medicine
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Question 74
Correct
-
Where does secretin work in the pancreas?
Your Answer: Pancreatic ducts
Explanation:Secretin, a hormone produced by the duodenal S cells in response to the stomach chyme containing high hydrogen atom concentration (high acidity), is released into the blood stream; upon return to the digestive tract, secretion decreases gastric emptying, increases secretion of the pancreatic ductal cells, as well as stimulating pancreatic acinar cells to release their zymogenic juice.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
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Question 75
Incorrect
-
Digoxin causes:
Your Answer: Hyperkalaemia
Correct Answer: Increase in cytosolic calcium concentration
Explanation:Digoxin is a positive inotrope which inhibits NA/K ATPase, increases cardiac contractility and can cause hypokalaemia.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 76
Incorrect
-
All of the following constitute small intestinal brush border enzymes except:
Your Answer: Isomaltase
Correct Answer: Alpha-amylase
Explanation:The final step in digestion of carbohydrates, which is conversion of disaccharides to absorbable monosaccharides occurs on the small intestinal epithelial cells. The enzymes responsible for this final stage of digestion are not freely found in the intestinal lumen, but they are found as integral membrane proteins in the plasma membrane of the epithelial cell. The apical plasma membrane of the intestinal epithelial cell has numerous microvilli which extend from the cell known as the brush border. Thus, the enzymes embedded in those microvilli are referred to as brush border enzymes. All these enzymes except alfa amylase are brush border enzymes. Alfa amylase is secreted by pancreatic acinar cells.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
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Question 77
Correct
-
A 47 year old woman presents with joint pains and a history of recurrent infections over the past few months. Labs reveal a positive rheumatoid factor and low white cell count. Given the likely diagnosis, which of the following features would be present in her case?
Your Answer: Splenomegaly
Explanation:Felty syndrome is a severe subtype of seropositive Rheumatoid arthritis. Clinical triad consists of arthritis, splenomegaly, and neutropenia (leads to an increased risk of recurrent bacterial infections). Other symptoms include skin ulcers of the lower limbs (indicating vasculitis), hepatomegaly, fever, and chest pain (indicating pleuritis or pericarditis). It is associated with increased risk of developing non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Connective Tissue
- Medicine
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Question 78
Correct
-
Lipid- lowering drugs like Lovastatin reduce cholesterol synthesis by inhibiting which enzyme?
Your Answer: HMG-CoA reductase
Explanation:Statins, also known as HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, are a class of lipid-lowering medications. Statins have been found to reduce cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality in those who are at high risk.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Metabolism
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Question 79
Incorrect
-
The predominant receptors in the hearts conduction system are?
Your Answer: Muscarinic
Correct Answer: Β1
Explanation:All of the components of the intrinsic conduction system contain autorhythmic cells that spontaneously depolarize. In the absence of extrinsic neural or hormonal influences, the SA node pacing rate would be about 100 beats per minute (bpm). The heart rate and cardiac output, however, must vary in response to the needs of the body’s cells for oxygen and nutrients under varying conditions. In order to respond rapidly to changing requirements of the body’s tissues, the heart rate and contractility are regulated by the autonomic nervous system (ANS), hormones, and other factors. The ANS has two interacting systems: the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems.
Sympathetic receptors: There are two types of adrenergic receptors: β and α. In the cardiovascular system there are β1, β2, α1, and α2 adrenergic receptors. β1 adrenergic receptors are expressed in the heart conduction system (in the SA node, AV node, and on atrial and ventricular cardiomyocytes). The activation of β1 receptors increases heart rate (via the SA node), and contractility.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 80
Correct
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Question 81
Correct
-
In the Fick‘s method of measuring cardiac output, the arterial oxygen content can be measured in a sample obtained from
Your Answer: The pulmonary vein
Explanation:In Fick’s original method, the following variables are measured:VO2, oxygen consumption in ml of pure gaseous oxygen per minute. This may be measured using a spirometer within a closed rebreathing circuit incorporating a CO2 absorberCa, the oxygen concentration of blood taken from the pulmonary vein (representing oxygenated blood)Cv, the oxygen concentration of blood from an intravenous cannula (representing deoxygenated blood)From these values, we know that:VO2 = (CO x Ca) – (CO x Cv)where CO = Cardiac Output, Ca = Oxygen concentration of arterial blood and Cv = Oxygen concentration of mixed venous blood.This allows us to sayCO = VO2/{Ca – Cv}and hence calculate cardiac output.Note that (Ca – Cv) is also known as the arteriovenous oxygen difference.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 82
Incorrect
-
In DNA cloning and sequencing, the bases in nucleotides chains are bound together by:
Your Answer: Histones
Correct Answer: Hydrogen bonding.
Explanation:Nucleotides will always bind together via hydrogen bonds. There are two hydrogen bonds present between thymine and adenine and three hydrogen bonds present between guanine and cytosine.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Genetics
- Medicine
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Question 83
Incorrect
-
Which of the following is the most common clinical feature of carbon monoxide poisoning?
Your Answer: Cherry red skin
Correct Answer: Headache
Explanation:Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning:It is considered as the great imitator of other diseases as the patients present with a myriad of symptoms. The carbon monoxide diffuses rapidly across the pulmonary capillary membrane binding to the haem molecule with a very high affinity (240 times that of oxygen) forming carboxy-haemoglobin (COHb). Non-smokers have a baseline COHb of ,3% while smokers have a baseline COHb of 10-15%.Clinical features of carbon monoxide toxicity:Headache: 90% of cases (most common clinical feature)Nausea and vomiting: 50%Vertigo: 50%Confusion: 30%Subjective weakness: 20%Severe toxicity: ‘pink’ skin and mucosa, hyperpyrexia, arrhythmias, extrapyramidal features, coma, deathCherry red skin is a sign of severe toxicity and is usually a post-mortem finding.Management• 100% oxygen• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT)The use of Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) for treatment mild to moderate CO poisoning is not routine.The selection criteria for HBOT in cases of CO poisoning include:• COHb levels > 20-25%• COHb levels > 20% in pregnant patient • Loss of consciousness• Severe metabolic acidosis (pH <7.1)• Evidence of end-organ ischemia (e.g., ECG changes, chest pain, or altered mental status)
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 84
Correct
-
Which of the following associations is false?
Your Answer: Mandibular nerve – foramen lacerum
Explanation:– The olfactory nerves pass through the cribriform plate- The maxillary division of the trigeminal nerve passes through the foramen rotundum- The facial nerve passes through the stylomastoid foramen- The mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve pass through the foramen ovale- The glossopharyngeal nerve passes through the jugular foramen.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 85
Correct
-
Normal parents have a child with a recessive condition, Tay Sachs. The chance of them having a normal child is?
Your Answer: 75%
Explanation:The chance for normal parents having a child with a recessive disease is 1:4 or 25%. As both the parents are heterozygous for this condition. They have a 3:4 chance of having a normal child or 75%.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Genetics
- Medicine
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Question 86
Correct
-
Which of the following corresponds to an oblique line drawn from the sternal end of the left 3rd costal cartilage to the sternal end of the right 6th costal cartilage?
Your Answer: Atrio-ventricular (coronary) groove
Explanation:The AV groove corresponds to the right border of the heart. The right border corresponds to a line drawn from the 3rd right costal cartilage to the 6th right costal cartilage; this border is slightly convex to the right.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 87
Correct
-
Which of the following affects the magnitude of the action potential?
Your Answer: Changes in the external Na+ concentration
Explanation:The magnitude of the action potential is determined by the sodium current. Increase in external sodium will result in increased influx of sodium and hence generation of a stronger action potential.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 88
Correct
-
Which of the following prevents auto-digestion of the stomach by gastric secretions:
Your Answer: Trefoil peptides and mucus- bicarbonate layer.
Explanation:Pepsinogen is the inactive form of pepsin, a protein digesting enzyme. Bombesin is a peptide which stimulates gastrin secreting cells in the stomach increasing production of gastric acid. Ecl or enterochromaffin cells are neuroendocrine cells that aid in the production of gastric acid via the release of histamine. Oxyntic cells are also known as parietal cells and are the main cells secreting gastric hydrochloric acid (HCl). Gastric acid and pepsin are harmful agents for the gastric mucosa and can result in autodigestion. It is therefore protected by several agents including bicarbonate which neutralizes the acidity of gastric acid while Trefoil peptides are a component of gastric mucosa that form a gel like layer in the gastric epithelium protecting it from harmful agents.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
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Question 89
Correct
-
To which of the following plasma proteins is T4 most bound in plasma?
Your Answer: Thyroxine-binding globulin
Explanation:Thyroxine-binding globulin, also known as TBG, is one of the three transport proteins responsible for carrying T4 and T3 through the circulatory system. It carries most of the T4 present in plasma, which it binds to strongly, shielding the hydrophobic hormones from the aqueous surroundings.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
- Medicine
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Question 90
Correct
-
The hepatic portal vein is a large vessel formed by which of the following veins?
Your Answer: All of the above
Explanation:The portal vein is usually formed by the confluence of the superior mesenteric and splenic veins and also receives blood from the inferior mesenteric, gastric, and cystic veins.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Hepatobiliary
- Medicine
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Question 91
Correct
-
Near the transcription site of a gene, the site at which RNA polymerase and its cofactors bind is known as the:
Your Answer: Promotor
Explanation:Transcription will begin when the RNA polymerase II binds to the promotor. The promotor is a sequence of 25 nucleotides found upstream from the start site of transcription. This promotor sequence is known as the TATA box. Transcription factors also bond along with RNA polymerase to this site to form a complex. However some may bind to regulatory elements proximal to the promotor site.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Genetics
- Medicine
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Question 92
Correct
-
The layers of the neocortex from the 1st to the 6th are arranged as follows:
Your Answer: Molecular, external granular, external pyramidal, internal granular, internal pyramidal, multiform
Explanation:The layers of neocortex from outermost to innermost include: the molecular, external granular layer, external pyramidal, internal granular, internal pyramidal and multiform layer.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 93
Correct
-
Choose the correct statement regarding trabecular bone:
Your Answer: All of the options are correct
Explanation:Trabecular, spongy or cancellous bone. It is located inside the cortical bone and makes up around 20% of all bone in the body. It is made of spicules or plates with a high surface to volume ratio, where many cells sit on the surface of the end plates. It receives its nutrients from the extracellular fluid (ECF), exchanging about 10 mmol of calcium every 24 hours.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
- Medicine
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Question 94
Correct
-
Regarding the innervation of cerebral blood vessels, which of the following triggers a vasoconstrictor effect?
Your Answer: Neuropeptide-Y
Explanation:Substance P is a potent vasodilator, VIP or vasoactive intestinal peptide has vasodilator properties in the intestines. PHM 27 is a potent calcitonin receptor agonist; endogenous analogue of human VIP. CGRP or Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide is a vasodilator which is found to play an important role in migraines. Neuropeptide Y is a strong vasoconstrictor.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 95
Correct
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Question 96
Correct
-
What is the principle site of action of adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH)?
Your Answer: Adrenal gland
Explanation:Adrenocorticotropic hormone, also known as ACTH or corticotropin, is a polypeptide tropic hormone. It is synthesized by the corticotropic cells of the anterior pituitary. It works by regulating the secretion of glucocorticoid hormones from the cortex cells in the adrenal gland. It binds to the melanocortin (MC) 2 receptors on the surface of the adrenal zona glomerulosa cells, producing cortisol.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
- Medicine
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Question 97
Correct
-
The blood supply to the liver is by
Your Answer: Hepatic artery and hepatic portal vein
Explanation:The liver receives a dual blood supply from the hepatic portal vein and hepatic arteries. The hepatic portal vein delivers approximately 75% of the liver’s blood supply, and carries venous blood drained from the spleen, gastrointestinal tract, and its associated organs. The hepatic arteries supply arterial blood to the liver, accounting for the remaining quarter of its blood flow.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
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Question 98
Correct
-
A 62 year old female has complained she feels unsteady when she is walking. She is examined and is found to have pyramidal weakness of her left lower leg. She also has reduced pain and temperature sensation on her right leg and right side of her torso up to the umbilicus. Her joint position sense is also impaired in her left big toe but is found to be normal elsewhere. She has definite left extensor plantar response, and the right plantar response is equivocal. Where is the lesion?
Your Answer: Left mid-thoracic cord
Explanation:In Brown-Sequard syndrome, there is paralysis and loss of proprioception, which occurs on the same (ipsilateral) side of the body, as the lesion. Loss of pain and temperature sensation, therefore, occurs on the opposite (contralateral) side of the body as the lesion.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Geriatrics
- Medicine
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Question 99
Correct
-
What is the name of the area that indicates the site of active B lymphocyte proliferation?
Your Answer: Germinal centre
Explanation:The cortex of the lymph node consists of the lymphoid nodules and sinusoids and posses a germinal centre from which B cells proliferate.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Immunology
- Medicine
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Question 100
Correct
-
A 45 year old man presents with fever, malaise, weight loss and myalgias that have been occurring for a month. You suspect polyarteritis nodosa and arrange for some lab investigations. Which of the following abnormality would most likely be present?
Your Answer: Elevated creatinine
Explanation:People with polyarteritis nodosa often exhibit anaemia of chronic disease. Leucocytosis and eosinophilia may also be present. ANCA is only rarely positive. As polyarteritis nodosa affects the kidneys as well, the creatinine is elevated in most cases.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Connective Tissue
- Medicine
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Question 101
Correct
-
Which of the following values of bone mineral density measured by DEXA would signify osteopenia?
Your Answer: T score of -2.2
Explanation:DEXA T Scores:Normal T-score ≥ −1.0Osteopenia −2.5 < T-score < −1.0Osteoporosis T-score ≤ −2.5Severe osteoporosis T-score ≤ −2.5 with fragility fracture
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
- Medicine
-
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Question 102
Incorrect
-
Cyclic AMP activates the following enzyme
Your Answer: Adenylyl cyclase
Correct Answer: Protein Kinase A
Explanation:Cyclic AMP works by activating protein kinase A (PKA, or cAMP-dependent protein kinase). Protein kinase A can also phosphorylate specific proteins that bind to promoter regions of DNA, causing increases in transcription.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Biology
- Medicine
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Question 103
Incorrect
-
A 16 year old previously well male presents with a 4 day history of fever, lethargy and a generalized macular rash. There is no significant previous medical history and the patient has not travelled abroad either. Vitals are as follows: Temp: 38.5BP: 125/75mmHgPulse: 100/min On auscultation the chest was clear and no heart murmur was heard. Examination also reveals a non blanching widespread macular rash over the chest and abdomen. There is swelling of interphalangeal joints of both hands and feet associated with mild tenderness. Lymph nodes are palpable over the supraclavicular, axillary and inguinal areas. Abdominal examination reveals palpable mass on both right and left hypochondrium. Lab results are given below:Haemoglobin (Hb) 13.5 g/dlWhite cell count (WCC) 14.0 × 109/lPlatelets 380 × 109/lSodium 145 mmol/lPotassium 4.8 mmol/lCreatinine 89 μmol/lRheumatoid factor NegativeAntinuclear antibody NegativeAnti-dsDNA NegativeASO titre Not detectedElectrocardiogram (ECG) Sinus rhythmWhat is the most likely underlying diagnosis?
Your Answer: Pauciarticular Still’s disease
Correct Answer: Systemic Still’s disease
Explanation:People with Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (also known as Stills disease) can have recurrent fevers, a macular rash, joint pain, joint deformities, an enlarged liver and/or spleen, and can occasionally have polyserositis, lung involvement or pericardial effusions. Rheumatoid factor and antinuclear antibodies are usually negative. Treatment is with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and the prognosis is better than for adult rheumatoid arthritis.In pauciarticular Still’s disease, antinuclear antibodies are present. Large joints are affected and most patients develop classic features of seronegative spondylarthritis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Connective Tissue
- Medicine
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Question 104
Correct
-
Where in the course of the gastrointestinal tract does the first significant digestion of fat begin in a normal human being?
Your Answer: Duodenum
Explanation:The enzyme lipase which is responsible for digestion of fat is secreted by the exocrine pancreas in the 2nd part of the duodenum at the point where the pancreatic duct opens. It opens together with the common bile duct which contains bile that emulsify fat aiding in digestion. The oesophagus, stomach and mouth do not contain enzymes related to fat digestion.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
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Question 105
Correct
-
There is normally an inverse relationship between the hepatic artery and portal venous blood flow. This is maintained by:
Your Answer: All of the options are correct
Explanation:There is an inverse relationship between the blood flow of the hepatic artery and portal vein. It is maintained by several factors such as chemicals like adenosine, neurohumoral substances, the morphology of the hepatic portal system (especially the ability of hepatic sinusoids to collapse) and myogenic control which causes vasoconstriction or vasodilation.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
-
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Question 106
Correct
-
Where is the aqueous humor normally reabsorbed?
Your Answer: Canal of schlemm
Explanation:Aqueous humor is a clear protein free fluid secreted by the ciliary body, it travels to the anterior chamber through the pupil and is absorbed through a network of trabeculae into the canal of schlemm
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 107
Correct
-
Which of the following statements is true regarding pulsus alternans?
Your Answer: It is found in association with a third heart sound
Explanation:Pulsus alternans is a physical finding with arterial pulse waveform showing alternating strong and weak beats. It is almost always indicative of left ventricular systolic impairment, and carries a poor prognosis. A pathological third heart sound is usually associated.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
-
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Question 108
Correct
-
A 50-year-old hypertensive male on phenytoin and clobazam for partial seizures is also taking lisinopril, cimetidine, sucralfate, and allopurinol. The last few drugs were added recently. He now presents with ataxia, slurred speech, and blurred vision.Which recently added drug is most likely to be the cause of his latest symptoms?
Your Answer: Cimetidine
Explanation:The symptoms of ataxia, slurred speech and blurred vision are all suggestive of phenytoin toxicity. Cimetidine increases the efficacy of phenytoin by reducing its hepatic metabolism.Phenytoin has a narrow therapeutic index (10-20 mg/L) and its levels are monitored by measuring the total phenytoin concentration.Cimetidine is an H2 receptor antagonist used in the treatment of peptic ulcers. It acts by decreasing gastric acid secretion.Cimetidine also has an inhibitory effect on several isoforms of the cytochrome enzyme system including the CYP450 enzymatic pathway. Phenytoin is metabolized by the same cytochrome P450 enzyme system in the liver. Thus, the simultaneous administration of both these medications leads to an inhibition of phenytoin metabolism and thus increases its circulating levels leading to phenytoin toxicity.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
-
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Question 109
Incorrect
-
Where is leptin synthesized and secreted?
Your Answer: Red adipose tissue
Correct Answer: White adipose tissue
Explanation:Leptin is a hormone that helps regulate food intake and energy expenditure. It is synthetized by white adipose tissue and the gastric mucosa. It works by inhibiting the sensation of hunger, therefore, it opposes the actions of ghrelin, also known as the hunger hormone.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
- Medicine
-
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Question 110
Incorrect
-
The transport of the di- and tri-peptides into enterocytes is by:
Your Answer: Na+ dependent peptide transporter 2
Correct Answer: H+ dependent peptide transporter 1
Explanation:Peptides longer that four amino acids are not absorbed. There is abundant absorption of di and tri peptidases in the small intestine. They are absorbed into the epithelial cell of the small intestine via a transporter called Peptide Transporter 1 by co transport with H+ ions.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
-
-
Question 111
Incorrect
-
Which of the following is correctly paired?
Your Answer: B cells : glucagon
Correct Answer: F cells : pancreatic polypeptide
Explanation:Pancreatic polypeptide is secreted by F-cells, which represent the smallest proportion of islet cells in the pancreas. These cells establish the embryological origin of the pancreas. Pancreatic polypeptide regulates endocrine and exocrine activities by the pancreas.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
- Medicine
-
-
Question 112
Incorrect
-
Concerning surface anatomy, where is the aortic valve found?
Your Answer: Situated in the left second intercostal space underneath the sternum
Correct Answer: Situated in the left third intercostal space underneath the sternum
Explanation:The aortic valve is situated in the left 3rd intercostal space just beneath the sternum.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
-
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Question 113
Incorrect
-
Which of the following with regard to autosomal dominant disorders are true:
Your Answer: The offspring of a heterozygous individual has a 75% chance of inheriting the chromosome carrying the disease allele
Correct Answer: The offspring of a heterozygous individual has a 50% chance of inheriting the chromosome carrying the disease allele
Explanation:50% of the children will be effected from parents who are heterozygous for an autosomal dominant disorder. An allele can be dominant or recessive. Individuals, meanwhile, can be homozygous or heterozygous: individuals who are homozygous for a certain gene carry two copies of the same allele. individuals who are heterozygous for a certain gene carry two different alleles.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Genetics
- Medicine
-
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Question 114
Correct
-
A 79-year-old woman has a waddling gait. History reveals enuresis and change in behaviour. What is the most likely diagnosis?
Your Answer: Normal pressure hydrocephalus
Explanation:The waddling gait and behaviour change are attributes of normal pressure hydrocephalus along with loss of bladder control which commonly happens with elder age.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Geriatrics
- Medicine
-
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Question 115
Correct
-
The first enzyme carbohydrates encounter in the digestive tract is?
Your Answer: Amylase
Explanation:Carbohydrate digesting enzymes are known as amylase. Salivary amylase or ptyalin is the first enzyme to begin carbohydrate digestion in he oral cavity. Amylose is a component of carbohydrates and is not an enzyme. Isomaltase, maltase and sucrase are enzymes found in the small intestines that digest disaccharides like maltose and sucrose to monosaccharides.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
-
-
Question 116
Correct
-
Select the correct statement about the microanatomy of the thyroid gland.
Your Answer: The capillaries adjacent to thyroid cells have a fenestrated endothelium.
Explanation:Fenestrated capillaries have a very thin endothelium, which is perforated by numerous fenestrations or pores. Hormones are usually released into these capillaries, reaching their target cells through the circulatory system.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
- Medicine
-
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Question 117
Correct
-
What is the function of migrating motor complex
Your Answer: Clears the gut of luminal contents in preparation of the next meal
Explanation:Migrating motor complexes (MMC) are waves of electrical activity that sweep through the intestines in a regular cycle during fasting. These motor complexes trigger peristaltic waves, which facilitate transportation of indigestible substances such as bone, fiber, and foreign bodies from the stomach, through the small intestine, past the ileocecal sphincter, and into the colon. The MMC occurs every 90–120 minutes during the interdigestive phase (between meals), and is responsible for the rumbling experienced when hungry. It also serves to transport bacteria from the small intestine to the large intestine, and to inhibit the migration of colonic bacteria into the terminal ileum.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
-
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Question 118
Incorrect
-
A 50-year-old man with a history of hyperlipidaemia, currently under treatment with simvastatin 10mg was found to have persistently high cholesterol levels. Previous attempts to increase the dose of simvastatin have resulted in myalgia. Given this history, which one of the following lipid-regulating drugs should definitely be avoided?
Your Answer: Ezetimibe
Correct Answer: Bezafibrate
Explanation:Both fibrates and nicotinic acid have been associated with myositis, especially when combined with a statin. However, the Committee on Safety of Medicines has produced guidance which specifically warns about the concomitant prescription of fibrates with statins concerning muscle toxicity.Bezafibrate: It is a fibric acid derivative (fibrate) that has been used as a class of agents known to decrease triglyceride levels while substantially increasing HDL-C levels.Pharmacological effects:- Increases VLDL catabolism by increasing lipoprotein and hepatic triglyceride lipase.- Decreases triglyceride synthesis by inhibiting acetyl-CoA reductase.- Decreases cholesterol synthesis by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase.Side effects:- Hypersensitivity- Primary biliary cirrhosis- Pre-existing gallbladder disease- Concurrent use with HMG-CoA inhibitors (statins) can produce myopathy- Hepatic/renal impairment in a patient warrants dose adjustment as this drug is primarily excreted via the renal mechanism.Contraindications: Concurrent use of MAO inhibitors, hypersensitivity, pre-existing cholestasis, and pregnancy.Use: It can be used to treat Barth syndrome (characterized by dilated cardiomyopathy, neutropenia (presenting with recurrent infections), skeletal myopathy and short stature)
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
-
-
Question 119
Incorrect
-
Which of the following is a granulocyte?
Your Answer: Platelets
Correct Answer: Eosinophil
Explanation:Granulocytes are a category of white blood cells characterized by the presence of granules in their cytoplasm. There are three principal types of granulocytes, distinguished by their appearance under Wright’s stain:
- Basophil granulocytes
- Eosinophil granulocytes
- Neutrophil granulocytes
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Medicine
-
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Question 120
Incorrect
-
A 24 year old man presents to the clinic complaining of lower limb joint pain and lower backache for the past 2 weeks. He remembers getting a mild gastrointestinal infection while in Spain 6 weeks ago that settled spontaneously. There has been eye irritation that has now settled. Past surgical history includes an appendectomy 3 years back. Vital examination shows a temperature of 37.5 C. Lab results reveal a normal WBC and raised ESR. Which of the following is true?
Your Answer: A rash is commonly seen in such patients
Correct Answer: Rheumatoid factor is likely to be negative
Explanation:Reactive arthritis, (formerly known as Reiter’s syndrome), is an autoimmune condition that occurs after a bacterial infection of the gastrointestinal or urinary tract. It is categorized as a seronegative spondylarthritis because of its association with HLA-B27. Reactive arthritis primarily affects young men and usually presents with musculoskeletal or extra‑articular symptoms. The characteristic triad consists of arthritis, conjunctivitis, and urethritis. The diagnosis is based on clinical features such as patient history and physical examination; there are no specific tests for reactive arthritis. Treatment is primarily symptomatic and consists of the administration of NSAIDs, as most patients recover spontaneously. extraarticular dermatologic manifestations include skin lesions of the glans resembling psoriasis (balanitis circinata); hyperkeratinisation of the palms and soles (keratoderma blenorrhagicum), oral ulcers. There usually is no rash and the diagnosis is unrelated to the presence of rheumatoid factor. This is a clinical diagnosis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Connective Tissue
- Medicine
-
-
Question 121
Correct
-
Which of the following cells are attracted to the surface of endothelium by selectins?
Your Answer: Neutrophils
Explanation:Selectins are expressed on the surface of the endothelium. P selectins are released from weibel-palade bodies and E selectins are induced by cytokines (TNF and IL-1). They bind to receptors on the neutrophils called saiyl lewis X.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Immunology
- Medicine
-
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Question 122
Incorrect
-
In the olfactory pathway: Mitral cells project to five regions of the olfactory cortex. Which one of the following is not one of the five regions?
Your Answer: Amygdala
Correct Answer: Posterior olfactory nucleus
Explanation:The olfactory system contains peripheral and central divisions which are connected by transduction structures. Peripheral division consists mainly of the nostrils, ethmoid bone, nasal cavity, and the olfactory epithelium. Olfactory neurons are receptor cells in the epithelium that detect odour molecules dissolved in the mucus and transmit information about the odour to the brain in a process called sensory transduction. Olfactory nerves and fibers transmit information about odours from the peripheral olfactory system to the central olfactory system of the brain. The main olfactory bulb transmits pulses to both mitral and tufted cells, which help determine odour concentration. These cells also note differences between highly similar odours and use that data to aid in later recognition. The cells are different with the mitral having low firing-rates and being easily inhibited by neighbouring cells, while tufted have high rates of firing and are more difficult to inhibit. The uncus houses the olfactory cortex which includes the piriform cortex, amygdala, olfactory tubercle, and para-hippocampal gyrus. Entorhinal cortex is an area of middle temporal lobe that has connection with the para-hippocampal gyrus.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
-
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Question 123
Correct
-
Which of the following features is least commonly seen in Gitelman’s syndrome?
Your Answer: Hypertension
Explanation:Gitelman syndrome is an autosomal recessive kidney disorder characterized by hypokalaemia metabolic alkalosis with hypocalciuria, and hypomagnesemia. In contrast to patients with Gordon’s syndrome, those suffering from Gitelman’s syndrome are generally normotensive or hypotensive.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
- Medicine
-
-
Question 124
Correct
-
Which enzyme deficiency can lead to ammonia intoxication?
Your Answer: Ornithine transcarbamylase
Explanation:Ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency also known as OTC deficiency is the most common urea cycle disorder in humans. Ornithine transcarbamylase, the defective enzyme in this disorder is the final enzyme in the proximal portion of the urea cycle, responsible for converting carbamoyl phosphate and ornithine into citrulline. OTC deficiency is inherited in an X-linked recessive manner, meaning males are more commonly affected than females.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Metabolism
-
-
Question 125
Correct
-
Coronary vasoconstriction can be caused by:
Your Answer: Beta blockage
Explanation:Coronary arteries contain alpha and beta receptors. The alpha receptor stimulates vasoconstriction and beta receptors stimulate vasodilation. When the chronotropic and inotropic effects of noradrenergic receptors are blocked by a B blocking drug, stimulation of the noradrenergic nerves will cause coronary vasoconstriction.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
-
-
Question 126
Correct
-
Regarding short-chain fatty acids, all the following are true except:
Your Answer: They are produced in the small intestine but their absorption occurs in the colon
Explanation:Short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) have carbon chains of 2-5 carbon atoms. They are produced in the large intestine and are also absorbed there. They exert a trophic effect on the colonic epithelial layer in absorption of sodium. In the absence of short chain fatty acids there is a loss of sodium and water. Transport of SCFA is coupled with sodium thus absorption leads to the accumulation in the lumen of HCO3, a rise in pH, fall in pCO2 and stimulation of Na+ and water transport. The effect on Na+ transport is thought to indicate the presence of a Na+/H+ exchange in the cell membrane.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
-
-
Question 127
Correct
-
Which vaso metabolite decreases coronary blood flow?
Your Answer: Endothelin
Explanation:Decreased O2, increased CO2, lactate, prostaglandins, adenine nucleotides, adenosine, H+, K+ and cyanide produce vasodilation and thus an increase in coronary blood flow.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
-
-
Question 128
Correct
-
Absorption of protein antigens i.e. bacterial and viral proteins takes place in the:
Your Answer: Microfold cells (m cells) of the intestine
Explanation:M cells are specialized epithelial cells. They have a high capacity of transcytosis of microorganisms and macromolecules. They rapidly uptake antigens and present them to immune cells associated with the gut. In contrast to absorptive enterocytes, M cells do not exert direct defence mechanisms to antigens and pathogens in the intestinal cavity. Crypts of Lieberkühn are located mainly in the small intestine and large intestine and the main function is to replenish epithelial cells and to secrete intestinal enzymatic juice as well as mucous. Brunner’s glands empty into intestinal glands and their main function is to secrete mucin and to form a protective mucus layer on the duodenal epithelial cells to protect it from acidic chyme coming from the stomach. Islets of Langerhans are located in the pancreas and secrets insulin mainly. Mucosa associated lymphoid tissue plays a role in inducing immune response after presentation of antigens.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
-
-
Question 129
Incorrect
-
The energy needed for glycogen synthesis comes from which compound?
Your Answer: ATP
Correct Answer: UTP
Explanation:Glycogen synthesis is, unlike its breakdown, endergonic—it requires the input of energy. Energy for glycogen synthesis comes from uridine triphosphate (UTP)
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Metabolism
-
-
Question 130
Correct
-
Where in the gastrointestinal tract are Brunner glands?
Your Answer: Duodenum
Explanation:Brunner’s glands (or duodenal glands) are compound tubular submucosal glands found in that portion of the duodenum which is above the hepatopancreatic sphincter (aka sphincter of Oddi). The main function of these glands is to produce a mucus-rich alkaline secretion (containing bicarbonate) in order to:- protect the duodenum from the acidic content of chyme (which is introduced into the duodenum from the stomach);- provide an alkaline condition for the intestinal enzymes to be active, thus enabling absorption to take place; lubricate the intestinal walls.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
-
-
Question 131
Correct
-
β-blockers are used in the treatment of angina because they have which one of the following properties?
Your Answer: Decrease the heart rate and myocardial contractility
Explanation:The cardiovascular effects of β-adrenoceptor block result from reduction of the sympathetic drive which includes reduced heart rate (automaticity) and reduced myocardial contractility (rate of rise of pressure in the ventricle). This will lead to reduced cardiac output and an overall fall in oxygen consumption.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
-
-
Question 132
Correct
-
The central veins in the liver:
Your Answer: Coalesce to form the hepatic vein
Explanation:The central veins coalesce to form the hepatic vein which in turn drains into the inferior vena cava. The portal vein mainly carries blood from different parts of the GIT and is not drained to the inferior vena cava.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
-
-
Question 133
Correct
-
Which of the following is the most common causative organism in infective endocarditis?
Your Answer: Streptococcus viridans
Explanation:Viridans Alpha-haemolytic streptococci, that are present in the mouth are the most frequently isolated microorganisms when the infection is acquired in a community setting. In contrast, Staphylococcus blood stream infections are frequently acquired in a health care setting where they can enter the blood stream through procedures that cause break in the integrity of skin like surgery, catheterisation or during access of long term indwelling catheters or secondary to intravenous injection of recreational drugs.Prosthetic valve endocarditis is commonly caused by Staphylococcus epidermidis as it is capable of growing as a biofilm on plastic surfaces
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
-
-
Question 134
Incorrect
-
When observing a JVP, which of the following would lead to prominent v waves?
Your Answer: Constrictive pericarditis
Correct Answer: Tricuspid regurgitation
Explanation:The v wave corresponds to Venous filling when the tricuspid valve is closed and venous pressure increases from venous return. In Tricuspid regurgitation there is additional blood from the regurgitant flow and thus this leads to a more prominent V wave.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
-
-
Question 135
Correct
-
A 41 year old woman who has a history of SLE presents with a dry cough, dyspnoea and fever. She is being treated with a monthly dose of IV cyclophosphamide for Grade IV nephropathy. The last cyclophosphamide dose was 10 years ago. Lab investigations are as follows: WCC: 2.3 (lymphocyte count 0.7)Platelets: 81Hb: 10.5ESR: 56CRP: 43PO2: 7.2 kPa, PCO2: 3.6 kPa after walking out to the toilet.Chest X ray was unremarkable apart from some patchy pulmonary infiltration.What is the likely diagnosis?
Your Answer: Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP)
Explanation:Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, is an opportunistic fungal lung infection occurring almost exclusively in immunocompromised individuals. In 50% of cases, PCP is the first manifestation of AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome), but it may be caused by other immunodeficiency disorders. PCP should be suspected in patients with a history of progressive dyspnoea and a dry cough with resistance to standard antibiotic treatment. Signs that support this diagnosis include a CD4 count < 200/μL, an increased beta-D-glucan level, and diffuse bilateral infiltrates on chest x-ray. Management of PCP includes high-dose trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX), treatment of the underlying immunodeficiency disorder, and steroids in the case of severe respiratory insufficiency. TB is less likely to be present in this case as ESR is relatively low and chest x-ray appeared normal.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Connective Tissue
- Medicine
-
-
Question 136
Correct
-
The direct determinants of cardiac output are
Your Answer: Stroke volume and heart rate
Explanation:Cardiac output is classically defined alongside stroke volume (SV) and the heart rate (HR) as:Cardiac Output [L/min] = Stroke Volume [L/beat] x Heart Rate [beats/min]
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
-
-
Question 137
Correct
-
Which of the following best describes the cardiac muscle?
Your Answer: Striated and involuntary
Explanation:Cardiac muscle (heart muscle) is an involuntary, striated muscle that is found in the walls and histological foundation of the heart, specifically the myocardium. Cardiac muscle is one of three major types of muscle, the others being skeletal and smooth muscle.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
-
-
Question 138
Correct
-
In cardiac muscle, which of the following is directly responsible for the release of Ca2+ stored in the sarcoplasmic reticulum (calcium-induced calcium release)?
Your Answer: Ryanodine receptor (RyR)
Explanation:Ryanodine receptor (RyR) is a ligand-gated Ca2+ channel with Ca2+ as its natural ligand. In skeletal muscle, Ca2+ entry from ECF by this route is not required for Ca2+ release. Instead, the DHPR that serves as the voltage sensor unlocks release of Ca2+ from the nearby SR via physical interaction with the RyR. The release is amplified through ca-induced ca release. However, in cardiac muscle, it is the influx of extracellular Ca2+ through the voltage-sensitive DHPR in the T system that triggers ca-induced ca release trough the RyR at the SR.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
-
-
Question 139
Incorrect
-
What effect does osmotic diuresis have on net Na+ excretion?
Your Answer: Markedly decreased Na+ excretion
Correct Answer: Markedly increased Na+ excretion
Explanation:Osmotic diuresis is the increase of urination rate caused by the presence of certain substances in the small tubes of the kidneys. The excretion occurs when substances such as glucose enter the kidney tubules and cannot be reabsorbed (due to a pathological state or the normal nature of the substance). The substances cause an increase in the osmotic pressure within the tubule, causing retention of water within the lumen, and thus reduces the reabsorption of water, increasing urine output (i.e. diuresis). Sodium, chloride, potassium are markedly excreted in osmotic diuresis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Renal
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Question 140
Correct
-
Which one of the following statements regarding epidemiological measures is correct?
Your Answer: Cross-sectional surveys can be used to estimate the prevalence of a condition in the population
Explanation:The incidence rate is the number of new cases per population at risk in a given time period. For example, if a population initially contains 1,000 non-diseased persons and 28 develop a condition over two years of observation, the incidence proportion is 28 cases per 1,000 persons per two years, i.e. 2.8% per two years.Prevalence is the proportion of a particular population found to be affected by a medical condition (typically a disease or a risk factor such as smoking or seat-belt use). It is derived by comparing the number of people found to have the condition with the total number of people studied, and is usually expressed as a fraction, as a percentage, or as the number of cases per 10,000 or 100,000 people.Incidence should not be confused with prevalence, which is the proportion of cases in the population at a given time rather than rate of occurrence of new cases. Thus, incidence conveys information about the risk of contracting the disease, whereas prevalence indicates how widespread the disease is.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Research Skills
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Question 141
Correct
-
Mutation in RB can lead to the formation of which cancer?
Your Answer: Retinoblastoma
Explanation:Patients with a history of autosomal dominant familial retinoblastoma have at least one mutated copy of the RB gene. This predisposes the patient to develop retinoblastoma in one or both the eyes. Patients with a family history should be screened properly so that it can be detected and treated as early as possible.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Genetics
- Medicine
-
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Question 142
Correct
-
Where is the myenteric plexus (Auerbach’s plexus) located in the GIT?
Your Answer: Between the outer longitudinal and middle circular muscle layers.
Explanation:A part of the enteric nervous system, the myenteric plexus exists between the longitudinal and circular layers of muscularis externa in the gastrointestinal tract. It is found in the muscles of the oesophagus, stomach, and intestine.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
-
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Question 143
Incorrect
-
Bronchial smooth muscle:
Your Answer: Is less in the terminal bronchioles
Correct Answer: Tone is increased by cholinergic discharge
Explanation:The lungs are supplied by both the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system. The parasympathetic innervation is supplied by the vagus nerve. The parasympathetic nervous system is the dominant neuronal pathway in the control of airway smooth muscle tone. Stimulation of cholinergic nerves causes bronchoconstriction, mucus secretion, and bronchial vasodilation. Sympathetic innervation is supplied by the T1 to T5 of the spinal cord and act mainly via beta adrenergic receptors. Stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system causes vasoconstriction and bronchodilation.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Respiratory
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Question 144
Correct
-
The lower oesophageal sphincter is under neural control. Which of the following causes contraction of the intrinsic sphincter?
Your Answer: Acetylcholine
Explanation:The lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS) is a specific region of the oesophageal circular smooth muscle. It allows the passage of a food bolus to the stomach and prevents the reflux of gastric contents into the oesophagus. The tone of the LOS is myogenic in origin and depends on smooth muscle properties that lead to the opening of Ca2+ channels but can also be modulated by enteric motor neurons, the parasympathetic and sympathetic extrinsic nervous system and several neurohumoral substances. Nitric oxide causes LOS relaxation. Acetylcholine and tachykinins are involved in the LOS contraction.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
-
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Question 145
Correct
-
The sympathetic supply to the stomach comes from the:
Your Answer: Celiac plexus
Explanation:The vagus nerve supplies the stomach and up to proximal two-thirds of the large intestine and has parasympathetic stimulation. The sympathetic chain which begins at the level of he 1st thoracic vertebra and extends up to 3rd lumbar vertebra gives off the celiac plexus which mainly supplies the stomach. The mesenteric plexus mainly supplies the small intestine and is located below the celiac plexus in the sympathetic chain.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
-
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Question 146
Correct
-
Telomerase is active in all of the following cells, except:
Your Answer: Certain osteoblasts
Explanation:Telomerase activity is seen in germ cells and is absent in somatic cells. A somatic cell is any biological cell forming the body of an organism, other than a gamete, germ cell, gametocyte or undifferentiated stem cell. i.e. liver cells. Telomeres prevent the chromosomes from shortening and prevent the coding portion of the DNA from being lost, thus allowing the cell to replicate indefinitely. During replication telomeres may be lost resulting in cell death. A subset of liver cells with high levels of telomerase renews the organ during normal cell turnover and after injury.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Genetics
- Medicine
-
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Question 147
Correct
-
What is the function of the BK channel on the vascular smooth muscle membrane?
Your Answer: Massive K+ influx, increasing membrane potential, and shutting off the voltage gated Ca2+ channel
Explanation:In vascular smooth muscles, Ca2+ influx via the voltage gated calcium channels increases the cytosolic calcium, as well as causing the release of calcium from the sarcoplasmic reticulum. The high calcium concentration increases the activity of the calcium activated potassium channels. These are known as BK channels. Massive influx of potassium shuts off the voltage gated calcium channels and causes relaxation of the vascular smooth muscle.
The large-conductance voltage and calcium-sensitive BK channel is important in many electrically active cells. Its unique sensitivity to both intracellular calcium levels and membrane potential makes it a key regulator of intracellular calcium, a critical second messenger in cells.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
-
-
Question 148
Correct
-
An important hormone controlling the differentiation of monocytes to osteoclasts, by inhibiting the RANKL/ RANK interaction is called?
Your Answer: Osteoprotegerin
Explanation:Osteoprotegerin, also known as osteoclastogenesis inhibitory factor (OCIF) is a glycoprotein that acts as a cytokine receptor. It works as a decoy receptor for the receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB ligand (RANKL)/osteoclast differentiation factor, thus inhibiting the differentiation of osteoclasts, which are capable of resorbing bone. Osteoprotegerin has been proposed as a therapeutic agent for osteoporosis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
- Medicine
-
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Question 149
Correct
-
Translation usually begins at which codon?
Your Answer: AUG
Explanation:The start codon is the first codon of a messenger RNA (mRNA) transcript translated by a ribosome. The start codon always codes for methionine in eukaryotes and the most common start codon is AUG.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Metabolism
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Question 150
Correct
-
Which of the following structures is not part of the conducting system of the heart?
Your Answer: Ventricular wall
Explanation:The conduction system of the heart consists of the SA node, AV node, internodal pathway between these two nodes, Bundle of His and the purkinje fibers
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
-
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Question 151
Correct
-
A 32 year old female is diagnosed with SLE based on her complaints of polyarthralgia, mouth ulcers and ANA positivity. Labs reveal normal urinalysis, urea and electrolytes. ESR is 90mm in the first hour. How will you manage this patient?
Your Answer: Hydroxychloroquine 200 mg/day
Explanation:Hydroxychloroquine is used in the management of SLE as it prevents disease progression and has relatively mild side effects, for instance headache, nausea etc. Its use reduces the usage of corticosteroids. It is particularly effective when the disease is less severe and there is no organ involvement. Cyclophosphamide and prednisolone are indicated in cases of renal, neurological and lung involvement.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Connective Tissue
- Medicine
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Question 152
Incorrect
-
The principal enzyme of lipid digestion is:
Your Answer: Trypsin
Correct Answer: Lipase
Explanation:Lipase is the principle enzyme that digest lipids. Amylase digest carbohydrates. Colipase is a co-enzyme that optimize the activity of lipase. Trypsin digest proteins and cholesterol esterase digest cholesterol.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
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Question 153
Incorrect
-
The growth promoting protein anabolic effects of insulin are mediated by:
Your Answer: Igf-1
Correct Answer: Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase
Explanation:Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase or PI-3Ks are a group of enzymes which are involved in a number of different cellular functions. PI-3Ks interact with insulin and the insulin receptor substrate, regulating glucose uptake. They are an important element in the insulin signalling pathway.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
- Medicine
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Question 154
Correct
-
The action of progesterone on different organs/systems includes:
Your Answer: Breasts: stimulation of lobular and alveolar development
Explanation:Progesterone is a sex hormone which affects mainly the reproductive system. In the breasts, it mediates the lobuloalveolar maturation to allow for milk production; this is done in conjunction with prolactin. It acts to maintain female reproductive and sex characteristics.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
- Medicine
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Question 155
Incorrect
-
Which part of the cerebellum is primarily responsible for equilibrium and eye movements?
Your Answer: Cerebrocerebellum
Correct Answer: Vestibulocerebellum
Explanation:The vestibulocerebellum develops at the same time as the vestibular apparatus in the inner ear. Its regulates balance between agonist and antagonist muscle contractions of the spine, hips, and shoulders during rapid movements.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 156
Correct
-
Question 157
Incorrect
-
The function of Troponin T in cardiac muscle is?
Your Answer: Binding site for Ca2+ to initiate muscle contraction
Correct Answer: Allows attachment of troponin components to tropomyosin
Explanation:Troponin T binds the troponin components to tropomyosin. Troponin I inhibits the interaction of myosin with actin, and troponin C contains the binding sites for the Ca2+ that helps initiate contraction.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 158
Correct
-
A 72 year old female, known with rheumatoid arthritis for last 17 years, presents with recurrent attacks of red eyes with a sensation of grittiness. Which of the following is most likely cause of the red eyes?
Your Answer: keratoconjunctivitis sicca
Explanation:Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory systemic disease associated with some extraarticular manifestations. Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, episcleritis, scleritis, corneal changes, and retinal vasculitis are the most common ocular complications among extraarticular manifestations of RA. The overall prevalence of keratoconjunctivitis sicca also known as dry eye syndrome among patients of RA is 21.2% and is the most common with sense of grittiness in the eyes.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Connective Tissue
- Medicine
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Question 159
Incorrect
-
A 62 year old female complains of pain and stiffness in her shoulders. She also finds it difficult to get out of her chair. From the list of symptoms below, choose the one most likely to support the diagnosis of polymyalgia rheumatica.
Your Answer: Proximal muscle weakness
Correct Answer: Low grade fever
Explanation:Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory disease which usually causes stiffness and pain in the shoulder – this can also occur in the pelvic girdle muscles. Its onset can either be subacute or acute and is associated with a systemic inflammatory response. This, therefore, causes symptoms such as fever, weight loss, anorexia, and malaise. Polymyalgia rheumatica is unpredictable in its course and it is known that 30 per cent of patients also present with giant cell arteritis. The cause of this disease is unknown but studies have shown it have infectious origins. Diagnosis of polymyalgia rheumatica can be difficult and other inflammatory diseases have to be excluded first. Patients with this disease are usually over 60 years of age (it is very rarely seen in those under 50). Muscle weakness does not present, although this can be hard to assess when the patient is in pain. Low-grade fever and weight loss are typical of this disease due to chronic inflammation. As such, weight gain is very rare and peripheral joints are usually not affected (they can be affected but it is very rare). Also, muscle tenderness is not a specific symptom of the disease – it is therefore not a classical finding of polymyalgia rheumatica. Although patients usually complain of stiffness and pain, the muscles are usually not significantly tender – this is usually more associated with fibromyalgia or myositis. When investigated, a normochromic/normocytic anaemia; a raised erythrocyte sedimentation rate often over 50 mm/hr., and raised C reactive protein are usually revealed. Symptoms of giant cell arteritis should also be sought, such as headaches, visual disturbances, TIAs (transient ischemic attacks), jaw claudication, and thickened temporal arteries. The patient response to a moderate dose of steroids is useful when confirming a diagnosis of polymyalgia rheumatica. The maximum dose of prednisolone should not exceed 20mg once a day. After treatment, patients should show a 70 per cent improvement in symptoms within a month (between 3-4 weeks). Inflammatory markers should also fall back to their normal levels. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories are of little use and are associated with morbidity. There is also little evidence for the use of steroidal-sparing agents.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Geriatrics
- Medicine
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Question 160
Correct
-
The following cells replicate without shortening their telomeres because they express telomerase.
Your Answer: Germ cells
Explanation:Telomerase activity is seen in germ cells and is absent in somatic cells. Telomeres prevent the chromosomes from shortening and prevent the coding portion of the DNA from being lost, thus allowing the cell to replicate indefinitely. During replication telomeres may be lost resulting in cell death.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Genetics
- Medicine
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Question 161
Incorrect
-
Wernicke’s area:
Your Answer: Is concerned with fine tuning detailed and coordinated patterns for vocalization
Correct Answer: Is concerned with comprehension of auditory and visual information
Explanation:Wernicke’s area is located in the categorical hemisphere or left hemisphere in about 95% of right handed individuals and 60% of left handed individuals. It is involved in the comprehension or understanding of written and spoken language. In contrast Broca’s area is involved in production of language.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 162
Correct
-
Activation of nitric oxide synthesis by endothelial cells is triggered by:
Your Answer: All of the above
Explanation:Acetylcholine, histamine, bradykinin, vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and shear stress on the endothelial cells causing the release of NO. NO is formed from arginine and causes vasodilatation of the blood vessels.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 163
Correct
-
Sequence of events in formation of speech are:
Your Answer: Wernicke’s area---arcuate fasciculus---broca’s area---insula---motor cortex---speech
Explanation:Wernicke’s area is located in the categorical hemisphere or left hemisphere in about 95% of right handed individuals and 60% of left handed individuals. It is involved in the comprehension or understanding of written and spoken language. In contrast Broca’s area is involved in production of language. Firstly, the language is accessed in the Wernicke’s area and these words are sent via the arcuate fasciculus to the Broca’s area, where instructions for articulation is generated. This is then sent from Broca’s are to the motor cortex for the articulation.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 164
Incorrect
-
Which afferent information is carried by the dorsal column?
Your Answer: Pain
Correct Answer: Proprioception/ discriminative touch
Explanation:The posterior grey column (dorsal column) is responsible for carrying the sensation of proprioception, two-point discrimination, and vibration to the nucleus proprius, situated anterior to the substantia gelatinosa throughout the spinal cord.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 165
Correct
-
The ependyma fuse with which of the following to from the choroid plexus?
Your Answer: Tela choroidea
Explanation:The choroid plexus produces the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the ventricles of the brain. It consists of modified ependymal cells. Tela choroidea is a region of pia mater of the meninges and underlying ependyma that’s a part of the choroid plexus. It is a very thin layer of the connective tissue of pia mater that overlies and covers the ependyma.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 166
Correct
-
A 62 year old man arrives at the clinic with a history of cough and intermittent haemoptysis for the last 3 months. He has a 50 pack year smoking history and is currently waiting for bronchoscopy to assess a left lower lobe collapse. The patient also has a marked muscle weakness and wasting of proximal muscles of his shoulders and pelvic girdle. His wife states that lately he has been unable to eat solids. Which of the following statements would be true regarding this scenario?
Your Answer: He may have a photosensitive facial rash
Explanation:The patient has presented with signs of small cell lung cancer. The associated proximal muscle weakness is most probably due to dermatomyositis which occurs as a paraneoplastic syndrome associated with lung carcinoma. In most cases, the first symptom is a distinctive skin rash on the face, eyelids, chest, nail cuticle areas, knuckles, knees or elbows. The rash is patchy and usually a bluish-purple colour. Corticosteroids are helpful in the management of the cutaneous changes and muscle weakness.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Connective Tissue
- Medicine
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Question 167
Correct
-
The areas of extensive series of sarcoplasmic folds known as intercalated discs always occur at what portion of the muscle fiber?
Your Answer: Z lines
Explanation:The muscle fibers of the heart branch and interdigitate, but one complete unit is surrounded by a cell membrane. The place where one muscle fiber abuts the other, the cell membrane of both the fibers run parallel to each other through a series of extensive folds. These areas always occur on the Z lines and are known as intercalated discs.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 168
Correct
-
A 23-year-old female known with schizophrenia is being reviewed in the emergency department. Her mother claims that she has been 'staring' for the past few hours but has now developed abnormal head movements and has gone 'cross-eyed'. On examination, the patient's neck is extended and positioned to the right. Her eyes are deviated upwards and are slightly converged. Given the likely diagnosis, what is the most appropriate treatment?
Your Answer: Procyclidine
Explanation:The most probable diagnosis in this patient is an oculogyric crisis, that is most appropriately managed with procyclidine or benztropine (antimuscarinic). An oculogyric crisis is a dystonic reaction to certain drugs or medical conditions.Features include:Restlessness, agitationInvoluntary upward deviation of the eyesCauses:PhenothiazinesHaloperidolMetoclopramidePostencephalitic Parkinson’s diseaseManagement:Intravenous antimuscarinic agents like benztropine or procyclidine, alternatively diphenhydramine or ethopropazine maybe used.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
-
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Question 169
Correct
-
Increase Gamma motor neuron activity produces what effect on the muscle spindle sensitivity?
Your Answer: Increase
Explanation:The muscle spindle is supplied by both sensory and motor nerves. Sensory supply is Type Ia fibers whereas motor supply is via gamma motor neurons. These neurons also play a role in adjusting the sensitivity of muscle spindles. Increased neuron activity increases the muscle spindle sensitivity.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 170
Incorrect
-
Which of the following drugs would be the safest to prescribe in a 22 year old man with seropositive rheumatoid arthritis who is planning to start a family?
Your Answer: Leflunomide
Correct Answer: Prednisolone
Explanation:Prednisolone although has many undesirable side effects it may be considered relatively safe compared to the drugs that are provided here. Prolonged treatment with sulphasalazine may depress semen quality and cause irreversible infertility. Methotrexate and leflunomide both inhibit purine/pyrimidine synthesis (the former by inhibiting folate metabolism) and are contraindicated in pregnancy or while trying to conceive. In males, a temporary or permanent decrease in sperm count may occur with cyclophosphamide. Because the recovery of fertility after cyclophosphamide therapy is variable, sperm banking should be considered before treatment is begun.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Connective Tissue
- Medicine
-
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Question 171
Correct
-
90% of erythropoietin necessary for haemopoesis is produced by the kidneys, the remainder is formed in the?
Your Answer: Liver
Explanation:Erythropoietin is produced by interstitial fibroblasts in the kidney in close association with peritubular capillary and proximal convoluted tubule. It is also produced in perisinusoidal cells in the liver. While liver production predominates in the fetal and perinatal period, renal production is predominant during adulthood.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Medicine
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Question 172
Incorrect
-
Which one of the following makes up most of the adrenal cortex?
Your Answer: Zona glomerulosa
Correct Answer: Zona fasciculata
Explanation:The zona fasciculata represents the widest area of the adrenal cortex, situated in the middle of the cortex. It produces glucocorticoids including; 11-deoxycorticosterone, corticosterone, and cortisol.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
- Medicine
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Question 173
Correct
-
Cross-bridges between actin and myosin filaments contain:
Your Answer: Calcium ions
Explanation:At rest troponin I is bound to actin and tropomyosin and covers the site where the myosin head interacts with actin. When calcium enters into the muscle, it binds with troponin C and causes a structural change in troponin I which moves out of the myosin binding site and causes the cross bridges between the actin and myosin filaments to occur.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 174
Correct
-
The predominant site in the lymph node where B lymphocytes are found is:
Your Answer: Cortex
Explanation:The cortex of the lymph node consists of the lymphoid nodules and sinusoids and posses a germinal centre from which B cells proliferate. The cortex of the lymph node predominately consists of B cells.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Immunology
- Medicine
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Question 175
Incorrect
-
A 40-year-old man is admitted to the Emergency Department in a confused state. He tells you that he consumed two bottles of antifreeze. On examination, his pulse is 120 bpm and blood pressure is 140/90 mmHg. An arterial blood gas analysis shows uncompensated metabolic acidosis. He is transferred to the high dependency unit and ethanol is given via a nasogastric tube. How does ethanol help this patient?
Your Answer: Inhibits alcohol dehydrogenase
Correct Answer: Competes with ethylene glycol for alcohol dehydrogenase
Explanation:Ethanol competes with ethylene glycol for alcohol dehydrogenase and thus, helps manage a patient with ethylene glycol toxicity.Ethylene glycol is a type of alcohol used as a coolant or antifreezeFeatures of toxicity are divided into 3 stages:Stage 1: (30 min to 12 hours after exposure) Symptoms similar to alcohol intoxication: confusion, slurred speech, dizziness (CNS depression)Stage 2: (12 – 48 hours after exposure) Metabolic acidosis with a high anion gap and high osmolar gap. Also tachycardia, hypertensionStage 3: (24 – 72 hours after exposure) Acute renal failureManagement has changed in recent times:Fomepizole, an inhibitor of alcohol dehydrogenase, is now used first-line in preference to ethanol.Ethanol has been used for many years works by competing with ethylene glycol for the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase this limits the formation of toxic metabolites (e.g. glycolaldehyde and glycolic acid) which are responsible for the hemodynamic/metabolic features of poisoning.Haemodialysis has a role in refractory cases.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 176
Correct
-
Pancreatic juice is usually?
Your Answer: Alkaline
Explanation:Pancreatic juice is alkaline in nature and has a high amount of bicarbonate ions. About 1500 ml is secreted every day. It also contains a large quantity of enzymes in the inactive form.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
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Question 177
Correct
-
Arterioles stemming from the coronary artery can also empty into the heart directly via the:
Your Answer: Arteriosinusoidal vessels
Explanation:Most of the venous blood returns to the heart via the coronary sinus and the anterior cardiac veins. Apart from these there are other vessels that drain directly into the heart chambers. They include arteriosinusoidal vessels, which connect the arterioles to the heart chambers. The thebesian veins drain the capillaries into the chambers and the arterioluminal vessels drain small arteries directly into the chambers.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 178
Incorrect
-
Which statement is incorrect regarding transcription of DNA?
Your Answer: Primary mRNA consists of both introns and exons.
Correct Answer: A gene is always read in the 3’-5’ orientation and at 3’ promoter sites.
Explanation:In both prokaryotes and eukaryotes RNA polymerase acts in the 5′-3′ direction and hence the RNA is transcribed in this direction. The mRNA produced is immature as it has introns as well as exons presents. It undergoes a process known as splicing to remove the exons and then interacts with the ribosomes to form proteins.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Genetics
- Medicine
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Question 179
Correct
-
Which of the following statements is false regarding the bioavailability of a drug?
Your Answer: The bioavailability of a drug given orally is often affected by the degree of renal elimination
Explanation:Renal elimination of a drug has no role in altering the bioavailability of a drug.The bioavailability of a drug is the proportion of the drug which reaches systemic circulation. Mathematically, bioavailability is the AUCoral/AUCiv x 100%, where AUC = area under the concentration-time curve following a single (oral or iv) dose. Other options are true:By definition, the bioavailability of a drug given intravenously is 100%.Drugs given orally that undergo high pre-systemic (first-pass) metabolism in the liver or gut wall have a low bioavailability e.g. lidocaine. Bioavailability is also affected by the degree of absorption from the gut and this can change depending on gut motility and administration of other drugs.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 180
Incorrect
-
Which of the following drug can cause galactorrhoea?
Your Answer: Furosemide
Correct Answer: Metoclopramide
Explanation:Metoclopramide causes extrapyramidal effects (especially in children and young adults), hyperprolactinaemia, and occasionally tardive dyskinesia on prolonged administration. Also reported are drowsiness, restlessness, diarrhoea, depression, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, rashes, pruritus, oedema.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
-
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Question 181
Correct
-
What is the function of gap junctions?
Your Answer: Diffusion of small molecules between neighbouring cells
Explanation:Gap junctions are a specialized intercellular connection between a multitude of cell-types. They directly connect the cytoplasm of two cells, which allows various molecules, ions and electrical impulses to directly pass through a regulated gate between cells.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Biology
- Medicine
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Question 182
Correct
-
Where does protein digestion begin?
Your Answer: Stomach
Explanation:Digestion typically begins in the stomach when pepsinogen is converted to pepsin by the action of hydrochloric acid, and continued by trypsin and chymotrypsin in the small intestine.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
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Question 183
Correct
-
The main reason for the prolonged effect of the withdrawal reflex is:
Your Answer: Multiple connections between afferent and efferent neurons
Explanation:The withdrawal reflex is a spinal reflex that protects the body from harmful stimuli. Spinal reflexes are mostly monosynaptic and are mediated by a simple reflex arc. Withdrawal reflex is mediated by a polysynaptic reflex resulting in stimulation of many motor neurons in order to establish a quick and prolonged response.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 184
Incorrect
-
Where on the surface of the chest is the normal site of auscultation for the mitral area?
Your Answer: 5th intercostal space in the left lower sternal border
Correct Answer: 4th left intercostal space in the mid-clavicular line
Explanation:The mitral valve is situated in the left 4th intercostal space just beneath the sternum, in the mid clavicular line.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 185
Incorrect
-
Protozoa is part of which pathogenic group?
Your Answer: Parasites
Correct Answer: Eukaryotes
Explanation:Protozoa are a diverse group of unicellular eukaryotic organisms. Historically, protozoa were defined as single-celled organisms with animal-like behaviours, such as motility and predation.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Infectious Diseases
- Medicine
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Question 186
Correct
-
A 30-year-old female presents with a 4-day history of diarrhoea and vomiting. She has been unable to keep fluids down for 4 days and has been treated with metoclopramide. She develops a dystonic reaction. What is the most appropriate treatment for this woman?
Your Answer: Benztropine
Explanation:Acute dystonic reactions (extrapyramidal symptoms) such as spasmodic torticollis, trismus, and oculogyric crises can occur following the administration of metoclopramide or stemetil and thus, neither is recommended for the treatment of nausea in young women.
Such reactions respond well to treatment with benztropine or procyclidine.
– Benztropine: It is an anticholinergic medication with significant CNS penetration. A single dose of benztropine 1 to 2 mg IV followed by 1 to 2 mg p.o twice a day for up to 7 days to prevent a recurrence. Subsequently, both the offending agent and those from the same group should be avoided.
– Alternatively, diphenhydramine can be used intravenously (up to a dose of 50mg) or intramuscularly followed by p.o therapy every 6 hours for 1 to 2 to prevent a recurrence.- Second-line therapy with IV benzodiazepines is reserved for those patients who do not respond to anticholinergics.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 187
Incorrect
-
A 56 year old woman presents to the clinic complaining of shoulder pain that she has been experiencing for the last 4 weeks. She does not remember getting injured previously. The pain worsens on movement especially when she is moving the arm quickly. At night, lying on the affected side is painful. Examination reveals no erythema or swelling. However, pain is felt on passive abduction between 60 to 120 degrees and she is unable to abduct the arm past 70-80 degrees. Flexion and extension are intact. What is the most likely diagnosis?
Your Answer: Adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder)
Correct Answer: Supraspinatus tendonitis
Explanation:Supraspinatus tendinopathy is a common and disabling condition that becomes more prevalent after middle age and is a common cause of pain in the shoulder. A predisposing factor is resistive overuse. This patient has the classic painful arc that is a sign of shoulder impingement characteristic of supraspinatus tendonitis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Connective Tissue
- Medicine
-
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Question 188
Incorrect
-
A 39 year old woman with a history of rheumatoid arthritis has recently been switched from methotrexate to leflunomide. Monitoring of full blood count and LFTs has been carried out. Which of the following parameters should also be monitored in this case?
Your Answer: Blood glucose
Correct Answer: Blood pressure
Explanation:Blood pressure should be routinely measured as leflunomide may cause hypertension and thus an increase in BP. It doesn’t cause changes in blood sugar levels, peak expiratory flow rate or haematuria.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Connective Tissue
- Medicine
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Question 189
Correct
-
An 18-year-old young lady is brought to the ER by her mother. She was found, lying on the floor having consumed an unidentified quantity of her mother's prescription pills with alcohol. The patient's mother is a known hypertensive under treatment. On examination, the patient was found to be lethargic, hypotensive with a BP of 70/50 mmHg, and bradycardic with a pulse rate of 38 bpm. A finger prick glucose is 3.2 mmol/L. Which TWO among the following are the most appropriate steps for the initial management of this patient?
Your Answer: Glucagon and isoprenaline
Explanation:The most appropriate steps of initial management include iv glucagon and iv isoprenaline.The most likely diagnosis in the above scenario (decreased conscious level, profound hypertension, and bradycardia) is β-blocker toxicity/overdose. Bronchospasm rarely occurs in an overdose of β-blockers, except where there is a history of asthma.Immediate management is to give iv glucagons (50–150μg/kg) followed by infusion to treat hypotension and isoprenaline or atropine to treat bradycardia. Where patients fail to respond to these measures, temporary pacing may be required. If the patient is seen within the first 4 hours of the overdose, gastric lavage may be of value.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 190
Correct
-
In ventricular fibrillation (VF), the first defibrillation attempt (with a biphasic defibrillator) should be made at:
Your Answer: 200 J
Explanation:Defibrillation is a common treatment for life-threatening cardiac dysrhythmias and ventricular fibrillation. If the patient is in Ventricular tachycardia (VT) or ventricular fibrillation (VF) on the monitor, immediately apply the pads and shock the patient with 120-200 Joules on a biphasic defibrillator or 360 Joules on a monophasic defibrillator.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 191
Correct
-
Which of the following causes the closure of the ductus arteriosus during birth?
Your Answer: Reduced levels of prostaglandins
Explanation:Ductus arteriosus is kept open by the prostaglandin E2 which is a vasodilator. At birth the high levels of cyclooxygenase blocks the production of prostaglandins which results in the closure of the ductus arteriosus.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 192
Correct
-
The pontine tegmentum as part of the midbrain, contains which cranial nerve nuclei?
Your Answer: CN 5 to 8
Explanation:The pontine tegmentum also known as dorsal pons is located within the brain stem. Several cranial nerve nuclei are located in the pontine tegmentum. The nuclei of CN V, CN VI, CN VII and CNVIII are located in the pontine tegmentum.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 193
Correct
-
The major factor in controlling coronary artery blood flow is considered to be?
Your Answer: Metabolites of oxygen consumption
Explanation:There is a strong relationship between myocardial blood flow and oxygen consumption. This indicates that products of metabolism may cause vasodilation of the coronary artery.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 194
Correct
-
A 65-year-old man presents to you three weeks after initiating metformin for type 2 diabetes mellitus. His body mass index is 27.5 kg/m^2. At a dose of 500mg TDS the patient has experienced significant diarrhoea. Even on reducing the dose to 500mg BD his symptoms persisted. What is the most appropriate next step in this patient?
Your Answer: Start modified release metformin 500mg od with evening meal
Explanation:Here, the patient seems to be intolerant to standard metformin. In such cases, modified-release preparations is considered as the most appropriate next step. There is some evidence that these produce fewer gastrointestinal side-effects in patients intolerant of standard-release metformin.Metformin is a biguanide and reduces blood glucose levels by decreasing the production of glucose in the liver, decreasing intestinal absorption and increasing insulin sensitivity. Metformin decreases both the basal and postprandial blood glucose.Other uses: In Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), Metformin decreases insulin levels, which then decreases luteinizing hormone and androgen levels. Thus acting to normalize the menstruation cycle.Note:Metformin is contraindicated in patients with severe renal dysfunction, which is defined as a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) less than 30 ml/min/1.732m2. Metformin overdose has been associated with hypoglycaemia and lactic acidosis, for this reason, it has a black box warning for lactic acidosis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
-
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Question 195
Correct
-
Which of the following would be a contraindication to thrombolysis?
Your Answer: Intracranial neoplasm
Explanation:Absolute contraindications to thrombolysis include:
- Previous intracranial bleeding at any time
- Stroke in less than 6 months
- Closed head or facial trauma within 3 months
- Suspected aortic dissection
- Ischemic stroke within 3 months (except in ischemic stroke within 3 hours time)
- Active bleeding diathesis
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure (>180 systolic or >100 diastolic)
- Known structural cerebral vascular lesion
- Arterio-venous malformations
- Thrombocytopenia
- Known coagulation disorders
- Aneurysm
- Brain tumours
- Pericardial effusion
- Septic embolus
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
-
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Question 196
Incorrect
-
Which is the primary lymphoid organ?
Your Answer: Spleen
Correct Answer: Thymus
Explanation:Lymphoid organs consist of lymph nodes, the thymus, spleen and tonsils. The thymus is the primary lymphoid organ as it is the organ in which the T cells mature.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Immunology
- Medicine
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Question 197
Correct
-
A 20-year-old male presented to the clinic with a long term history of pins and needles sensation in both hands. He also has prognathism. He also gives a history of recent onset right upper quadrant pain after being started on a new medication for his condition. Which of the following medications acting on his endocrine system can be responsible for this adverse effect?
Your Answer: Octreotide
Explanation:The patient (known case of acromegaly) seems to have developed cholelithiasis (presenting with right upper quadrant pain) probably due to octreotide.It is a long-acting analogue of somatostatin which is released from D cells of the pancreas and inhibits the release of growth hormone, glucagon, and insulin.Uses- Acute treatment of variceal haemorrhage- Acromegaly- Carcinoid syndrome- Prevent complications following pancreatic surgery- VIPomas- Refractory diarrhoeaAdverse effectsGallstones (secondary to biliary stasis)Other options:- Bromocriptine – a dopamine agonist with side effects arising from its stimulation of the brain vomiting centre.- Desmopressin – predominantly used in patients with diabetes insipidus by increasing the presence of aquaporin channels in the distal collecting duct to increase water reabsorption from the kidneys. The main side effects include headache and facial flushing due to hypertension.- Metformin – mainly reduces hepatic gluconeogenesis in patients with type 2 diabetes, common side effects include diarrhoea, vomiting, and lactic acidosis- Levothyroxine – synthetic thyroxine used in patients with hypothyroidism, common side effects result from incorrect dosing and mimic the symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 198
Incorrect
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Which of the following is NOT a cause of onycholysis?
Your Answer: Trauma
Correct Answer: Mycoplasma pneumonia
Explanation:Onycholysis is the separation of the distal edge of the nail from the vascular nailbed causing whiteness of the free edge. Causes include:- Idiopathic- Trauma, excessive manicuring- Infection: especially fungal- Skin disease: psoriasis, dermatitis- Impaired peripheral circulation e.g. Raynaud’s- Systemic disease: hyper/hypothyroidism, reactive arthritis, porphyria cutanea tarda- Sometimes a reaction to detergents (e.g. washing dishes with bare hands, using detergent-based shampoos or soaps).- Patients with hepatocellular dysfunction may develop hair-thinning or hair loss and nail changes such as clubbing, leukonychia (whitening), or onycholysis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Dermatology
- Medicine
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Question 199
Incorrect
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Which of the following features do mast cells and basophils have in common:
Your Answer: Both degranulate in response to histamine release
Correct Answer: Are essential for immediate type-hypersensitivity reactions
Explanation:Anaphylaxis is a severe immediate allergic reaction of rapid onset affecting many body systems. It is due to the release of inflammatory mediators and cytokines from mast cells and basophils. Basophils are the least common of the granulocytes, representing about 0.5 to 1% of circulating white blood cells. However, they are the largest type of granulocyte. They are responsible for inflammatory reactions during immune response, as well as in the formation of acute and chronic allergic diseases, including anaphylaxis, asthma, atopic dermatitis and hay fever. They can perform phagocytosis (cell eating), produce histamine and serotonin that induce inflammation, and heparin that prevents blood clotting. Mast cells are similar in appearance and function. Both cell types store histamine, a chemical that is secreted by the cells when stimulated.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Immunology
- Medicine
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Question 200
Incorrect
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Using the Cockcroft-Gault formula, what will the estimated creatinine clearance be of a 55 year old male who weighs 75kg and has a serum creatinine of 150mg/dL?
Your Answer: 0.33ml/min
Correct Answer: 0.59ml/min
Explanation:A commonly used surrogate marker for estimate of creatinine clearance is the Cockcroft-Gault (CG) formula, which in turn estimates GFR in ml/min:CCr = [(140-age) x Mass(kg)]/[72 x serum creatinine (mg/dL)](multiply by 0.85 for women)Therefore CCr = (85 x 75)/(72 x 150) = 0.59
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Renal
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SESSION STATS - PERFORMANCE PER SPECIALTY
