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Question 1
Correct
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The enzyme located on the brush border of the small intestine activating the proteolytic enzymes for further digestion of proteins is called?
Your Answer: Enterokinase
Explanation:Enterokinase is a brush border enzyme of the duodenum that activates proteolytic enzymes for further digestion of proteins. Trypsinogen is converted to trypsin by the action of enterokinase. Trypsin and chymotrypsin are secreted by the pancreatic acinar cells and are enzymes that aid in protein digestion. Pepsin is secreted by chief cells of the gastric mucosa. Procarboxydase is the inactive form of carboxypeptidase which is converted to its active form by trypsin and 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 2
Incorrect
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What is the isolated effect of B2 stimulation on the coronaries?
Your Answer: Vasoconstriction
Correct Answer: Vasodilatation
Explanation:Norepinephrine and epinephrine are agonists for all adrenergic receptor subtypes, although with varying affinities. Based on their physiology and pharmacology, adrenergic receptors have been divided into two principal types: alpha and beta. These types have been further differentiated into alpha-1, alpha-2, b1, and b2 receptors.
Alpha-1 Receptors are located on postsynaptic cells in smooth muscle and elicit vasoconstriction.
Alpha-2 receptors are localized on presynaptic membranes of postganglionic nerve terminals that synthesize norepinephrine. When activated by catecholamines, alpha-2 receptors act as negative feedback controllers, inhibiting further norepinephrine release.
Activation of myocardial b1 receptors stimulates the rate and strength of cardiac contraction, and consequently increases cardiac output. b1 Receptor activation also stimulates renin release from the kidney. Another class of antihypertensive agents acts by inhibiting b1 receptors.
Activation of b2 receptors by epinephrine relaxes vascular smooth muscle and results in vasodilation.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 3
Incorrect
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Concerning the functional unit of the liver, which segment is most susceptible to hypoxic damage?
Your Answer: Zone 4
Correct Answer: Zone 3
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 4
Incorrect
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Which receptor type is associated with the inhibition of pancreatic endocrine secretion?
Your Answer: M2
Correct Answer: Α2
Explanation:The activation of alpha 2-adrenergic receptors in pancreatic beta-cells works by inhibiting the secretion of insulin.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 5
Correct
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Which cranial nerve is responsible for the parasympathetic nerve supply of the thorax and upper abdomen?
Your Answer: CN X
Explanation:Cranial nerve X supplies the structures of the thorax and abdomen. All the rest of the cranial nerves supply the structures in the head and neck
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 6
Correct
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Question 7
Incorrect
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Which of the following does not lower ventricular rate in atrial fibrillation?
Your Answer: Acetylcholine
Correct Answer: Adrenaline
Explanation:Adrenaline is a sympathetic neurotransmitter which increases the heart rate. During atrial fibrillation the atria is contracting at more than 200 beats/min. Acetylcholine is a parasympathetic neurotransmitter decreasing the heart rate. Digital also depresses the conduction at the AV conduction. Vagal discharge and occulocardiac reflux decrease the heart rate and convert the tachycardia into normal sinus rhythm.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 8
Incorrect
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Which factors increase the end-diastolic volume?
Your Answer: Infiltrative disease
Correct Answer: Constriction of veins
Explanation:End diastolic volume is also known as preload. It is the amount of blood the heart contracts against. Constriction of veins will decrease venous pooling and increase venous return, hence increasing the end diastolic volume. Standing will increase venous pooling hence decreasing venous return and end diastolic volume. Raised intrapericardial pressure will also decrease venous return and hence end diastolic volume.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 9
Incorrect
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The coronary sinus, which empties into the right atrium, serves to?
Your Answer: Drain the lymphatics of the heart
Correct Answer: Drain the venous supply of the myocardium
Explanation:The coronary sinus is a collection of veins joined together to form a large vessel that collects blood from the heart muscle (myocardium). It delivers deoxygenated blood to the right atrium, as do the superior and inferior vena cava.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 10
Incorrect
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A 30-year-old male is brought to the emergency department following his collapse in a night club. His friends who accompanied him admit that, of recent, he has been using increasing amounts of cocaine. Which among the following is commonly associated with cocaine overdose?
Your Answer: Hypothermia
Correct Answer: Metabolic acidosis
Explanation:Metabolic acidosis is associated with cocaine overdose. In overdose, cocaine leads to agitation, tachycardia, hypertension, sweating, hallucinations, and finally convulsions. Metabolic acidosis, hyperthermia, rhabdomyolysis, and ventricular arrhythmias also occur.Chronic use may be associated with premature coronary artery disease, dilated cardiomyopathy, and increased risk of cerebral haemorrhage.There are 3 stages for acute cocaine toxicity:Stage I: CNS symptoms of headache, vertigo, pseudo hallucinations, hyperthermia, hypertension. Stage II: increased deep tendon reflexes, tachypnoea, irregular breathing, hypertension.Stage III: Areflexia, coma, fixed and dilated pupils, hypotension, ventricular fibrillation, apnoea, and respiratory failure.Treatment:- Airway, breathing, and circulation to be secured. The patient’s fever should be managed, and one should rule out hypoglycaemia as a cause of the neuropsychiatric symptoms. – Cardiovascular toxicity and agitation are best-treated first-line with benzodiazepines to decrease CNS sympathetic outflow.- The mixed beta/alpha blocker labetalol is safe and effective for treating concomitant cocaine-induced hypertension and tachycardia.- Non-dihydropyridine calcium channels blockers such as diltiazem and verapamil have been shown to reduce hypertension reliably, but not tachycardia. – Dihydropyridine agents such as nifedipine should be avoided, as reflex tachycardia may occur. – The alpha-blocker phentolamine has been recommended but only treats alpha-mediated hypertension and not tachycardia.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 11
Incorrect
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Question 12
Incorrect
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What is the fat called that serves as a considerable source of heat in children?
Your Answer: Yellow adipose tissue
Correct Answer: Brown adipose tissue
Explanation:Brown adipose tissue, also known as BAT or brown fat, coforms the adipose tissue along with white adipose tissue (WAT) or white fat. While WAT is responsible for energy-storage, BAT is involved in thermogenesis and energy expenditure. It is more prevalent in children than in adults, and its activation during adolescence is associated to less weight gain and adiposity. BAT produces heat by non-shivering thermogenesis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
- Medicine
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Question 13
Incorrect
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Regarding cardiac output, an increased ejection fraction results from increases in which of the following?
Your Answer: Parasympathetic stimulation
Correct Answer: Strength of contraction without increase in muscle fiber length
Explanation:When the strength of contraction increases without an increase in fiber length, the EF increases.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 14
Incorrect
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Cranial nerves VI, VII, VIII enter/exit the base of the brain at the:
Your Answer: Midbrain
Correct Answer: Ponto-medullary junction
Explanation:Cranial nerves III, IV and V exit from the pons, VI, VII, VIII exit from the pontomedullary junction and cranial nerve IX, X, XI, XII exit from the medulla.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 15
Incorrect
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The formation of superoxide is catalysed by which enzyme?
Your Answer: Superoxide dismutase
Correct Answer: NADPH oxidase
Explanation:Superoxide is biologically toxic and is deployed by the immune system to kill invading microorganisms. In phagocytes, superoxide is produced in large quantities by the enzyme NADPH oxidase for use in oxygen-dependent killing mechanisms of invading pathogens.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Biology
- Medicine
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Question 16
Correct
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A 27-year-old female diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis has failed to respond to methotrexate and sulfasalazine. Her GP decides to start her on etanercept injections. Which one among the following is an adverse effect associated with the use of etanercept?
Your Answer: Reactivation of tuberculosis
Explanation:Among the give options, reactivation of tuberculosis may occur in a patient under treatment with etanercept.Etanercept is a biological TNF inhibit commonly used to control ankylosing spondylitis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis.Etanercept is a soluble receptor that binds both TNF-alpha and TNF-beta to inhibit the inflammatory response in joints and skin that is characteristic of these autoimmune disorders.The most common adverse effects include infections (viral, bacterial, and fungal – mostly upper respiratory tract infections) and injection site reaction (erythema, itching, pain, swelling, bleeding, bruising).Rarely it can also cause, reactivation of hepatitis B and TB, pneumocystis pneumonia, congestive cardiac failure, Steven-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, etc.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 17
Incorrect
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Which of the following vitamin deficiencies is associated with xerophthalmia?
Your Answer: Ascorbic acid (vitamin C)
Correct Answer: Vitamin A
Explanation:Xerophthalmia caused by a severe vitamin A deficiency is described by pathologic dryness of the conjunctiva and cornea. The conjunctiva becomes dry, thick and wrinkled. If untreated, it can lead to corneal ulceration and ultimately to blindness as a result of corneal damage.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Medicine
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Question 18
Incorrect
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The main breakdown of fatty acids (by B-oxidation) occurs in which part of the cell?
Your Answer: Endoplasmic reticulum
Correct Answer: Mitochondria
Explanation:Once inside the mitochondria, the β-oxidation of fatty acids occurs via five recurring steps:Activation by ATPOxidation by FAD,Hydration,Oxidation by NAD+,Thiolysis,The final product is acetyl-CoA, the entry molecule for the citric acid cycle.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Metabolism
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Question 19
Correct
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A 28 year old woman presents with painful genital ulceration. She reports that these attacks have been recurrent over the past 4 years. She has been treated previously with oral acyclovir but this has had little effect on the duration of her symptoms. Over the past year, she has noticed almost weekly attacks of mouth ulcers that heal slowly. Past medical history is significant for treatment of thrombophlebitis two years ago. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
Your Answer: Behcet's syndrome
Explanation:Behçet disease is a rare vasculitic disorder that is characterized by a triple-symptom complex of recurrent oral aphthous ulcers, genital ulcers, and uveitis. The systemic manifestations can be variable. Ocular disease has the greatest morbidity, followed by vascular disease generally from active vasculitis. Cutaneous manifestations can occur in up 75% of patients with Behcet disease and can range from acneiform lesions, to nodules and erythema nodosum. GI manifestations can be severe. Differentiating Behçet disease from active inflammatory bowel disease can be clinically difficult. Herpes would have ideally responded to acyclovir. Sarcoidosis does not have genital and oral ulcerations.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Connective Tissue
- Medicine
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Question 20
Incorrect
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The Na-K-2Cl co-transporter occurs in which part of the renal tubule?
Your Answer: Apical surface of proximal tubule
Correct Answer: Apical surface of thick ascending limb
Explanation:The Na-K-Cl cotransporter (NKCC) is a protein that aids in the active transport of sodium, potassium, and chloride into cells. In humans there are two isoforms of this membrane transport protein, NKCC1 and NKCC2. NKCC2 is specifically found in cells of the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle and the macula densa in nephrons, the basic functional units of the kidney. Within these cells, NKCC2 resides in the apical membrane abutting the nephron’s lumen.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Renal
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Question 21
Correct
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The spinothalamic tracts are particularly concerned with:
Your Answer: Pain and temperature sensations
Explanation:The spinothalamic tracts are part of the anterolateral system in the spinal cord and are responsible for transmitting sensory information related to pain, temperature, and crude touch from the peripheral nervous system to the thalamus in the brain. This sensory information is then relayed to the cerebral cortex for processing. The spinothalamic tracts are divided into two main pathways:
- Lateral spinothalamic tract: Transmits pain and temperature sensations.
- Anterior spinothalamic tract: Transmits crude touch and pressure sensations.
Control of posture: The reticulospinal and vestibulospinal tracts are primarily involved in the control of posture and balance. These tracts originate in the brainstem and help maintain posture by influencing the motor neurons that control axial and proximal muscles.
Voluntary skilled movements: The corticospinal tracts (also known as the pyramidal tracts) are responsible for voluntary skilled movements. These tracts originate in the motor cortex and descend through the brainstem and spinal cord to synapse on motor neurons that control fine motor movements, especially of the distal limbs.
Muscular tone: Muscular tone is primarily regulated by several tracts, including the reticulospinal and vestibulospinal tracts. Additionally, the rubrospinal tract (originating from the red nucleus in the midbrain) also contributes to motor control and muscle tone, particularly of the upper limbs.
Visual input: The optic tracts and pathways (including the optic nerve, optic chiasm, optic tract, lateral geniculate nucleus, and optic radiations) are responsible for transmitting visual information from the retina to the primary visual cortex in the occipital lobe. This pathway processes visual input, including aspects such as color, motion, and depth perception.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 22
Incorrect
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A 24-year-old student is brought to A&E having ingested at least 20 tablets of paracetamol 8 hours earlier. She weighs 61kg. What should her immediate management consist of?
Your Answer: Activated charcoal
Correct Answer: Intravenous N-acetylcysteine
Explanation:Activated charcoal is useful if given within one hour of the paracetamol overdose. Liver function tests, INR and prothrombin time will be normal, as liver damage may not manifest until 24 hours or more after ingestion. The antidote of choice is intravenous N-acetylcysteine, which provides complete protection against toxicity if given within 10 hours of the overdose.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 23
Incorrect
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Which glucose transporter is responsible for the uptake of glucose in ß cells?
Your Answer: GLUT 3
Correct Answer: GLUT 2
Explanation:Glucose transporter 2, also known as GLUT2 is a transmembrane carrier protein which is not insulin dependent. It is found in the liver and the pancreatic islet ß cells, where it functions as the primary glucose transporter that allows the transfer of glucose between these organs and blood.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
- Medicine
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Question 24
Incorrect
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An example of cholinergic autonomic neurons are:
Your Answer: Sympathetic postganglionic neurons that decreases motility and tone of the stomach.
Correct Answer: Sympathetic postganglionic neurons that innervate sweat glands.
Explanation:All preganglionic neurons in both the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system secrete acetylcholine. The postganglionic neurotransmitter of the parasympathetic nervous system in all neurons is acetylcholine. Postganglionic fibers of the sympathetic nervous system mainly secrete Noradrenalin and Adrenalin but at sweat glands and erector pili muscles the postganglionic neurotransmitter is acetylcholine.
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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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Which of the following has the shortest duration:
Your Answer: Atrial systole
Explanation:Atrial systole: 0.1s
Atrial diastole: around 0.4s
Ventricular diastole: 0.4-0.53s
Ventricular systole: 0.27s
PR interval: 0.12-0.2 s
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 26
Incorrect
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A 55-year-old male presents with complaints suggestive of erectile dysfunction. He also provides a history of ischaemic heart disease for which he is under treatment. The GP decides to start him on sildenafil citrate. Which of the following medications may contraindicate the use of sildenafil in this patient?
Your Answer: Losartan
Correct Answer: Nicorandil
Explanation:The use of nitrates and nicorandil concomitantly with sildenafil citrate is contraindicated.Sildenafil (Viagra) is a phosphodiesterase type V inhibitor used in the treatment of impotence.Contraindications- Patients taking nitrates and related drugs such as nicorandil- Hypotension- Recent stroke or myocardial infarction (NICE recommend waiting 6 months)Side-effects:Visual disturbances e.g. cyanopsia, non-arthritic anterior ischaemic NeuropathyNasal congestionFlushingGastrointestinal side-effectsHeadache
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 27
Incorrect
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Which of the following statements regarding psoriasis is incorrect?
Your Answer: Nail signs include pitting and onycholysis
Correct Answer: Mediated by type 2 helper T cells
Explanation:Psoriasis is a long-lasting autoimmune disease which is characterized by patches of abnormal skin. These skin patches are typically red, itchy, and scaly commonly on the extensor surfaces. Psoriasis is associated with an increased risk of psoriatic arthritis, lymphomas, cardiovascular disease, Crohn’s disease, and depression. Psoriatic arthritis affects up to 30% of individuals with psoriasis. Psoriasis is mediated by type 1 helper T cells which are involved in the cell mediated response, rather than type 2 helper T cells
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Dermatology
- Medicine
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Question 28
Correct
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During strenuous exercise the following arterial change can take place in a fit athlete:
Your Answer: No change takes place
Explanation:The changes which occur in arterial pH, PO2 and PCO2 values during exercise are usually small. Arterial PO2 often rises slightly because of hyperventilation although it may eventually fall at high work rates. During vigorous exercise, when sufficient oxygen for flux through the Krebs cycle is not available, the increased reliance on glycolysis results in increased accumulation of lactic acid, which initially leads to an increase in PaCO2 . However, this is counteracted by the stimulation of ventilation and as a result PaCO2 is decreased. This provides some respiratory compensation for further lactic acid production and prevents a decline in blood pH, which remains nearly constant during moderate exercise.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Respiratory
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Question 29
Incorrect
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Which of the following is not true regarding mitochondrial chromosome disorders?
Your Answer: Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy (lhon), the commonest cause of blindness in young men, is an example of a mitochondrial chromosome defect.
Correct Answer: Because mitochondrial chromosomes have no introns in their genes, any point mutation has a low likelihood of having an effect.
Explanation:Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) does indeed lack introns, meaning that its genes are closely packed with coding sequences. This actually means that any point mutation in the mtDNA is more likely to have an effect, not less. The lack of introns means there are fewer non-coding regions where mutations can occur without affecting gene function. Thus, mutations in mtDNA often have significant consequences because they are more likely to alter essential coding sequences.
The other statements are true:
- Most mitochondrial diseases are myopathies and neuropathies with a maternal pattern of inheritance: This is correct because mtDNA is inherited maternally, and many mitochondrial disorders affect muscle and nerve function.
- Retinal degeneration, diabetes mellitus, and some forms of hearing loss are some of the other diseases attributed to mitochondrial chromosome defects: These are indeed conditions associated with mitochondrial defects.
- Mitochondrial chromosome defects are inherited from one’s mother: This is correct, as mtDNA is passed from mother to offspring.
- Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON), the commonest cause of blindness in young men, is an example of a mitochondrial chromosome defect: This is true; LHON is a well-known mitochondrial disorder.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Genetics
- Medicine
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Question 30
Correct
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The nucleus ambiguus:
Your 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 31
Incorrect
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The inverse stretch reflex causing muscle relaxation when excessive force is applied to a muscle is mediated by which sensory organ?
Your Answer: Muscle spindle
Correct Answer: Golgi tendon organ
Explanation:Both the muscle spindle and Golgi tendon body are proprioceptors. The Golgi tendon reflex is a normal component of the reflex arc of the peripheral nervous system. In a Golgi tendon reflex, skeletal muscle contraction causes the antagonist muscle to simultaneously lengthen and relax. This reflex is also called the inverse myotatic reflex, because it is the inverse of the stretch reflex.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 32
Incorrect
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Which of the following conditions is associated with eosinophilia?
Your Answer: Pregnancy
Correct Answer: Ascaris
Explanation:Eosinophilia can be idiopathic (primary) or, more commonly, secondary to another disease. In the Western World, allergic or atopic diseases are the most common causes, especially those of the respiratory or integumentary systems. In the developing world, parasites are the most common cause e.g. Ascaris
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Medicine
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Question 33
Incorrect
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In which organelle is the intrinsic apoptotic pathway initiated?
Your Answer: Peroxisome
Correct Answer: Mitochondria
Explanation:Apoptosis is a programmed form of cell death involving the degradation of cellular constituents by a group of cysteine proteases called caspases. The caspases can be activated through either the intrinsic (mitochondrial mediated) or extrinsic (death receptor mediated) apoptotic pathways.
The intrinsic apoptotic pathway, also known as the mitochondrial pathway, is primarily initiated within the mitochondria. This pathway is activated in response to various internal stimuli, such as DNA damage, oxidative stress, and other cellular stresses.
When the intrinsic pathway is triggered, several events occur in the mitochondria:
- Release of cytochrome c: Cytochrome c is released from the mitochondrial intermembrane space into the cytoplasm.
- Formation of the apoptosome: Cytochrome c in the cytoplasm binds to apoptotic protease activating factor-1 (Apaf-1) and procaspase-9, forming a complex known as the apoptosome.
- Activation of caspase-9: The apoptosome activates caspase-9, an initiator caspase.
- Caspase cascade: Activated caspase-9 then activates executioner caspases, such as caspase-3, leading to the execution phase of apoptosis, which results in the orderly dismantling of the cell.
The mitochondria play a crucial role in this pathway by regulating the release of pro-apoptotic factors that are essential for the activation of downstream apoptotic processes.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Biology
- Medicine
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Question 34
Correct
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Regarding bronchial innervation which of the following is correct:
Your Answer: Alpha 1 receptors increase bronchial constriction
Explanation:Stimulation of β2 receptors results in smooth muscle relaxation and bronchodilation. α1 receptors cause smooth muscle contraction in the bronchioles although minor to the β2 effects.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Respiratory
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Question 35
Incorrect
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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 36
Incorrect
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Which of the following hormones cause negative feedback on the CRH/ACTH axis?
Your Answer: Aldosterone
Correct 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 37
Correct
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Although variable, branches of which artery most often supply the SA and AV nodes?
Your Answer: Right coronary artery
Explanation:The RCA (right coronary artery) supplies the SA and the AV nodes along with the postero-basal wall of the left ventricle, posterior one third of the inferior vena cava, right ventricle and the posteromedial papillary muscle in the left ventricle.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 38
Incorrect
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Which serotonergic receptor is associated with vomiting?
Your Answer: 5ht4
Correct Answer: 5ht3
Explanation:5ht3 is a receptor strongly associated with vomiting, present in vagal afferents, the solitary tract nucleus (STN), and the area posterior. For this reason, 5ht3 antagonists are commonly used as antiemetic drugs. They include ondansetron, tropisetron, and granisetron.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 39
Incorrect
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The channel that coalesces the small pancreatic duct radicles before joining the common bile duct is known as the:
Your Answer: Duct of zymogen
Correct Answer: Duct of Wirsung
Explanation:The small ducts from the pancreas coalesce into a single duct known as the pancreatic duct or the duct of Wirsung. It usually joins the bile duct at the ampulla of Vater before entering the duodenum.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
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Question 40
Incorrect
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Intrinsic Factor is released by,
Your Answer: Surface mucus cells
Correct Answer: Parietal cell
Explanation:Intrinsic factor (IF), also known as gastric intrinsic factor (GIF), is a glycoprotein produced by the parietal cells of the stomach. It is necessary for the absorption of vitamin B12 (cobalamin) later on in the small intestine.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
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Question 41
Incorrect
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What is a characteristic findings on ECG in hyperkalaemia?
Your Answer: Flattened T waves
Correct Answer: Tall, tented T waves
Explanation:Hyperkalaemia leads to:
– Prolonged PR interval
– Small P waves
– Tall, tented T waves
– Widened QRS complexes and eventually asystole.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 42
Correct
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A 30-year-old male with a history of premature cardiovascular disease in the family has come for review of his lab investigations. His fasting cholesterol is 8.4 mmol/l with high-density lipoprotein (HDL) of 1.6 mmol/l. You elect to commence him on atorvastatin 20 mg PO daily.Which of the following best describes the mechanism of action of the statins?
Your Answer: They inhibit HMG CoA reductase
Explanation:Statins are a selective, competitive inhibitor of hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase, which is the enzyme responsible for the conversion of HMG-CoA to mevalonate in the cholesterol synthesis pathway.Statins are usually well tolerated with myopathy, rhabdomyolysis, hepatotoxicity, and diabetes mellitus being the most common adverse reactions. This is the rate-limiting step in cholesterol synthesis, that leads to increased hepatic low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptors and reduced hepatic VLDL synthesis coupled with increased very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) clearance.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 43
Correct
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Endotoxin
Your Answer: Composed of Lipid A in liposaccharide in cell wall
Explanation:Lipopolysaccharides (LPS), also known as lipoglycans and endotoxins, are large molecules consisting of a lipid (lipid A) and a polysaccharide composed of O-antigen, outer core and inner core joined by a covalent bond; they are found in the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, and elicit strong immune responses in animals.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Infectious Diseases
- Medicine
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Question 44
Incorrect
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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: Arrange colonoscopy
Correct 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 45
Correct
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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 46
Correct
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A 47-year-old male with type II diabetes mellitus presents to your clinic with a history suggestive of erectile dysfunction. You decide to start him on sildenafil citrate. What is the mechanism of action of this drug?
Your Answer: Phosphodiesterase type V inhibitor
Explanation:Sildenafil (Viagra) is a phosphodiesterase type V inhibitor used in the treatment of impotence.Contraindications:- Patients taking nitrates and related drugs such as nicorandil- Hypotension- Recent stroke or myocardial infarction (NICE recommend waiting 6 months)Side-effects:Visual disturbances e.g. cyanopsia, non-arthritic anterior ischaemic NeuropathyNasal congestionFlushingGastrointestinal side-effectsHeadache
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 47
Incorrect
-
Which is true of the composition of bile in the human hepatic duct?
Your Answer: The ratio of bile acids: phosphatidylcholine: cholesterol is 1:3: 20
Correct Answer: Contains only actively secreted substances
Explanation:Hepatic bile is an isotonic fluid and its electrolyte composition resembles that of plasma. 97% of water is found in the gallbladder bile, not hepatic duct. Hepatic bile is alkaline. The ratio of bile acids: phosphatidylcholine: cholesterol is 20:1:3. Hepatic bile contai9ns only actively secreted substances.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Hepatobiliary
- Medicine
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Question 48
Incorrect
-
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 49
Incorrect
-
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: Ciprofloxacin
Correct 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 50
Incorrect
-
Which is the commonest cardiovascular abnormality seen in an adult patient with Marfan’s syndrome?
Your Answer: Aortic dissection
Correct Answer: Aortic aneurysm
Explanation:Marfan syndrome (MFS) is a genetic disorder of connective tissue. The degree to which people are affected varies. People with Marfan’s tend to be tall, and thin, with long arms, legs, fingers and toes. They also typically have flexible joints and scoliosis. The most serious complications involve the heart and aorta with an increased risk of mitral valve prolapse and aortic aneurysm.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 51
Incorrect
-
In most somatic cells telomeres progressively shorten as:
Your Answer: Protein synthesis increases
Correct Answer: The cell divides
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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Genetics
- Medicine
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Question 52
Incorrect
-
The collection of genes that are termed the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) are found on:
Your Answer: Long arm of chromosome 5
Correct Answer: Short arm of chromosome 6
Explanation:Histocompatibility, or tissue compatibility, is the property of having the same, or sufficiently similar, alleles of a set of genes called human leukocyte antigens (HLA). HLA is the human form of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes found in all vertebrates. On a population level there is a great number of different alleles at each HLA locus on the short arm of chromosome 6
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Immunology
- Medicine
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Question 53
Incorrect
-
Which of the following is a characteristic clinical finding of opioid poisoning?
Your Answer: Sweating and lacrimation
Correct Answer: Bradycardia
Explanation:Opioid poisoning is classically associated with pinpoint pupils, reduced respiratory rate, bradycardia, drowsiness and coma. Hypothermia is a feature of barbiturate poisoning, while sweating and lacrimation are seen in cases of opiate withdrawal.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 54
Correct
-
A 25-year-old woman presented to the ED with carbon monoxide poisoning. High-flow oxygen was administered immediately. She had a GCS of 15 and her vitals were stable. Which one of the following is not an indication for hyperbaric oxygen therapy in this scenario?
Your Answer: A carboxyhaemoglobin concentration of 16%
Explanation:Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, 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%.Use of Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) for treatment of 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)Principle of HBOT:Exposing patients to 100 percent oxygen under supra-atmospheric conditions results in a decrease in the half-life (t1/2) of COHb, from , 90 min in atmospheric air to , 30 minutes. The amount of oxygen dissolved in the blood also rises from , 0.3 to 6 mL/dL, increasing the delivery of non-haemoglobin-bound oxygen to the tissues.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 55
Correct
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A 24 year old male, known case of hereditary angioneurotic oedema presents with recurrent fever and arthralgia which is accompanied by a rash on face and upper chest. These attacks have been refractory to treatment and have occurred recurrently requiring adrenaline on several occasions. Lab results reveal persistently reduced C4 levels. Which of the following is most likely causing his current symptoms?
Your Answer: Systemic lupus erythematosus
Explanation:Angioedema secondary to C1 inhibitor deficiency has been rarely reported to be associated with systemic lupus erythematosus. A genetic defect of C1 inhibitor produces hereditary angioedema, which is usually presented with cutaneous painless oedema, but oedema of the genital area, gastrointestinal and laryngeal tracts have also been reported. In lupus patients, angioedema may be the result of an acquired type of C1 inhibitor deficiency, most probably due to antibody formation directed against the C1 inhibitor molecule.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Connective Tissue
- Medicine
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Question 56
Incorrect
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Which is the most common site for primary cardiac tumours to occur in adults?
Your Answer: Right ventricle
Correct Answer: Left atrium
Explanation:Myxomas are the most common type of primary heart tumour. The tumour is derived from multipotential mesenchymal cells and may cause a ball valve-type obstruction. About 75% of myxomas occur in the left atrium of the heart, usually beginning in the wall that divides the two upper chambers of the heart.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 57
Correct
-
In which stage of mitosis are the chromosomes most obvious or prominent?
Your Answer: Metaphase
Explanation:Prophase begins when the nucleus envelope disintegrates and the chromosomes start to condense. The chromosomes consist of two sister chromatids that are joined at a constriction known as centromere. When the cell reaches the metaphase the chromosomes are completely condensed and ready to align on the equatorial plate.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Genetics
- Medicine
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Question 58
Correct
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Which vitamin plays a major role in the metabolism of many amino acids?
Your Answer: Vitamin B6
Explanation:Vitamin B6 is part of the vitamin B group, and its active form, pyridoxal 5′-phosphate (PLP) serves as a coenzyme in many enzyme reactions in amino acid, glucose, and lipid metabolism.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Medicine
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Question 59
Correct
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Which of the following biochemical profiles is seen in a normal 65 year old female? (in comparison to a normal 24 yr. old female)
Your Answer: Increased FSH, LH; decreased oestrogen, progesterone
Explanation:During menopause, a woman’s number of ovarian follicles becomes depleted; as a result, oestrogen and progesterone levels drop, and LH and FSH levels increase. One of the criteria to diagnose menopause is the absence of menstrual period for a year, along with a serum FSH level increased to 30 mIU/ml or higher. LH also rises with the onset of menopause.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
- Medicine
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Question 60
Incorrect
-
During anaerobic glycolysis, the net production of ATP is:
Your Answer: 24
Correct Answer: 2
Explanation:Anaerobic glycolysis is the transformation of glucose to lactate when limited amounts of oxygen (O2) are available. Anaerobic glycolysis is only an effective means of energy production during short, intense exercise, providing energy for a period ranging from 10 seconds to 2 minutes. It produces 2 ATP molecules per glucose molecule.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Metabolism
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Question 61
Incorrect
-
Which of the following diseases have antibodies available for treatment of the condition.
Your Answer: Measles
Correct 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 62
Incorrect
-
Which of the following types of reactions are a part of the phase II metabolism of a drug?
Your Answer: Hydrolysis
Correct Answer: Conjugation
Explanation:Drug metabolism can be broadly classified into:Phase I (functionalization) reactions: also termed non-synthetic reactions, they include oxidation, reduction, hydrolysis, cyclization and de-cyclization. The most common and vital reactions are oxidation reactions. (Of the given enzymes only Alcohol dehydrogenase is involved in phase I drug metabolism. Succinate dehydrogenase, is a vital enzyme involved in the Kreb’s cycle and the mitochondrial electron transport chain). They are mainly catalysed by Cytochrome P-450 enzyme.Phase II (conjugation) reactions: occur following phase I reactions, they include reactions: glucuronidation and sulphate conjugation, etc. They are mostly catalysed by UDP-glucuronosyltransferase enzyme. Other phase II enzymes include: sulfotransferases, N-acetyltransferases, glutathione S-transferases and methyltransferases.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 63
Incorrect
-
A 36 year old man arrives at the clinic complaining of pain and swelling of the left knee, ankles and right hallux. He has acute conjunctivitis, and dysuria. He suffered from an episode of gastroenteritis two weeks back. Clinical examination shows left Achilles tendonitis and right plantar fasciitis. Radiological examination reveals left sacroiliitis, with evidence of enthesitis, joint erosions and periostitis. HLA-B27 is positive. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
Your Answer: Sero-negative rheumatoid arthritis
Correct Answer: Reiter’s syndrome
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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Connective Tissue
- Medicine
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Question 64
Incorrect
-
What is the mechanism of action of carbimazole?
Your Answer: Conversion to methimazole, which blocks the TSH receptor
Correct Answer: Inhibition of the iodination of tyrosine
Explanation:Carbimazole is used to treat hyperthyroidism. Carbimazole is a pro-drug as after absorption it is converted to the active form, methimazole. Methimazole prevents thyroid peroxidase enzyme from coupling and iodinating the tyrosine residues on thyroglobulin, hence reducing the production of the thyroid hormones T3 and T4 (thyroxine).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 65
Correct
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A 18-year-old girl is brought to A&E having ingested at least 16 tablets of paracetamol 8 hours earlier. What should her immediate management consist of?
Your Answer: Intravenous N-acetylcysteine
Explanation:Activated charcoal is useful if given within one hour of the paracetamol overdose. Liver function tests, INR and prothrombin time will be normal, as liver damage may not manifest until 24 hours or more after ingestion.The antidote of choice is intravenous N-acetylcysteine, which provides complete protection against toxicity if given within 10 hours of the overdose.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 66
Incorrect
-
Which mechanism of action do Quinolones use?
Your Answer: Inhibit Protein synthesis
Correct Answer: Inhibit DNA gyrase
Explanation:The quinolones are a family of synthetic broad-spectrum antibiotic drugs. Quinolones exert their antibacterial effect by preventing bacterial DNA from unwinding and duplicating.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Infectious Diseases
- Medicine
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Question 67
Incorrect
-
Interruption of the left optic tract will result in which visual field defect?
Your Answer: Right upper quadrantanopia
Correct Answer: Right homonymous hemianopia
Explanation:Right homonymous hemianopia is due to a lesion or pressure on the left optic tract. Total blindness of the left eye is due to a complete occlusion of the left optic nerve. Bipolar hemianopia is due to a midline chiasmal lesion. Left nasal hemianopia due to a lesion involving the left perichiasmal area. Right homonymous inferior quadrantanopia is due to involvement of the lower left optic radiations.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 68
Incorrect
-
A 39-year-old accountant with long-standing gastro-oesophageal reflux disease is reviewed in clinic. He has recently switched from ranitidine to omeprazole. What is the main benefit of omeprazole compared to ranitidine?
Your Answer: Increased gastric motility
Correct Answer: Irreversible blockade of H+/K+ ATPase
Explanation:Proton pump inhibitors can reduce gastric acid secretion by up to 99%. Acid production resumes following the normal renewal of gastric parietal cells.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 69
Incorrect
-
Activation of nitric oxide synthesis by endothelial cells is triggered by:
Your Answer: Acetylcholine
Correct 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 70
Correct
-
Which caspase is part of both the intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways?
Your Answer: Caspase-3
Explanation:Once initiator caspases are activated in both the intrinsic and extrinsic pathway, they produce a chain reaction, activating several other executioner caspases (Caspase 3, Caspase 6 and Caspase 7).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cell Biology
- Medicine
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Question 71
Incorrect
-
Depolarization of the T tubule membrane activates the sarcoplasmic reticulum via which receptors?
Your Answer: Beta 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 72
Incorrect
-
Café-au-lait spots are seen in each of the following, except:
Your Answer: McCune-Albright syndrome
Correct Answer: Friedreich's ataxia
Explanation:Café-au-lait spots are hyperpigmented lesions that vary in colour from light brown to dark brown, with borders that may be smooth or irregular.
Causes include:
- Neurofibromatosis type I
- McCune–Albright syndrome
- Legius syndrome
- Tuberous sclerosis
- Fanconi anaemia
- Idiopathic
- Ataxia-telangiectasia
- Basal cell nevus syndrome
- Benign congenital skin lesion
- Bloom syndrome
- Chediak-Higashi syndrome
- Congenital nevus
- Gaucher disease
- Hunter syndrome
- Maffucci syndrome
- Multiple mucosal neuroma syndrome
- Noonan syndrome
- Pulmonary Stenosis
- Silver–Russell syndrome
- Watson syndrome
- Wiskott–Aldrich syndrome
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Dermatology
- Medicine
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Question 73
Incorrect
-
Which one of the following interventions has the least role in management of acne rosacea?
Your Answer: Use of high-factor sun block
Correct Answer: Low-dose topical corticosteroids
Explanation:Mild cases are often not treated at all, or are simply covered up with normal cosmetics and avoiding sun exposure. Therapy for the treatment of rosacea is not curative, and is best measured in terms of reduction in the amount of facial redness and inflammatory lesions. The two primary modalities of rosacea treatment are topical and oral antibiotic agents (including metronidazole and tetracyclines). Laser therapy may be appropriate for patients with prominent telangiectasia.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Dermatology
- Medicine
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Question 74
Incorrect
-
Telomerase is active in the following cells except:
Your Answer: Stem cells
Correct Answer: Certain osteoblasts
Explanation:Some cells have the ability to reverse telomere shortening by expressing telomerase, an enzyme that extends the telomeres of chromosomes. Telomerase is an RNA-dependent DNA polymerase, meaning an enzyme that can make DNA using RNA as a template.
Telomerase is not usually active in most somatic cells (cells of the body), but it’s active in germ cells (the cells that make sperm and eggs) and some adult stem cells. These are cell types that need to undergo many divisions, or, in the case of germ cells, give rise to a new organism with its telomeric “clock” reset.Interestingly, many cancer cells have shortened telomeres, and telomerase is active in these cells. If telomerase could be inhibited by drugs as part of cancer therapy, their excess division (and thus, the growth of the cancerous tumor) could potentially be stopped.A subset of liver cells with high levels of telomerase renews the organ during normal cell turnover and after injury. -
This question is part of the following fields:
- Genetics
- Medicine
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Question 75
Correct
-
With regard to X linked disorders which of the following are true
Your Answer: X linked recessive disorders usually present in males and only very rarely present in homozygous females
Explanation:All are true for autosomal recessive disorders. Dominance rules for sex-linked gene loci are determined by their behaviour in the female: because the male has only one allele (except in the case of certain types of Y chromosome aneuploidy), that allele is always expressed regardless of whether it is dominant or recessive.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Genetics
- Medicine
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Question 76
Incorrect
-
The febrile response to PGE2 will be impaired with the knockout of which one of the following prostaglandin receptors?
Your Answer: Ep4
Correct Answer: Ep3
Explanation:Prostaglandin EP3 receptor is a receptor for prostaglandin E2. Fever occurs as a result of the action of prostaglandin E2 and requires EP3 receptors in the preoptic area. Therefore, if there is an absence of EP3 receptors, fever caused by prostaglandin E2 will not occur.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
- Medicine
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Question 77
Incorrect
-
An exaggerated response to a noxious stimulus is called:
Your Answer: Causalgia
Correct Answer: Hyperalgesia
Explanation:Allodynia is the sensation of pain following non-painful stimulation.
Hyperalgesia is enhanced intensity of pain sensation.
Causalgia is a constant burning pain resulting from peripheral nerve injury.
Hyperesthesia is the abnormal increase in sensitivity to stimuli of sense.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 78
Incorrect
-
Activation of baroreceptor reflex involves:
Your Answer: Inhibition of neurons in the caudal ventrolateral medulla (CVLM)
Correct Answer: Short term regulation of systemic blood pressure
Explanation:Baroreceptors are found in the heart and the blood vessels. They are the carotid sinus and the aortic arch receptors and respond to the minute to minute change in the blood pressure i.e. a change in the pulsatile pressure and not to a change in the mean arterial pressure. If the pulse pressure decreases, the rate of firing of the receptors decreases, stimulating an increase in the heart rate and blood pressure. Mechanisms that regulate the long term blood pressure control include the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone mechanism.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 79
Correct
-
A 70-year-old man presents with nocturia, hesitancy and terminal dribbling of urine. Prostate examination reveals a moderately enlarged prostate with no irregular features and a well-defined median sulcus. Blood investigations show a PSA level of 1.3 ng/mL. Among the options provided below what is the most appropriate management for this patient?
Your Answer: Alpha-1 antagonist
Explanation:Benign Prostatic Enlargement or Hyperplasia (BPE/BPH) is the most probable diagnosis of the patient in question. It is a histological diagnosis characterized by proliferation of the cellular elements of the prostate. The initial treatment modality of choice is selective alpha 1 antagonists (such as Prazosin, Alfuzosin and Indoramin, and long acting agents like, Terazosin, Doxazosin, etc.) as they provide immediate relief from the bothersome lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).Other treatment modalities include:• Non-selective alpha blockers: no longer used due to severe adverse effects and the availability of selective alpha 1 blockers.• 5 alpha reductase inhibitors: Finasteride and Dutasteride, they target the underlying disease process and reduce the overall prostate volume. Thus, reduce the urinary retention and the lower urinary tract symptoms. (They do not provide immediate relief from LUTS and thus are not preferred as first line drugs over alpha 1 antagonists)• PDE-5 Inhibitors: The long-acting tadalafil has proven to be useful.• Surgical Treatment modalities: TURP, Prostatectomy, etc.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 80
Incorrect
-
The intrinsic pathway of coagulation is activated by which of the following?
Your Answer: Activation of factor viii
Correct Answer: Collagen fibers underlying the endothelium
Explanation:The contact activation (intrinsic) pathway begins with formation of the primary complex on collagen by high-molecular-weight kininogen (HMWK), prekallikrein, and FXII (Hageman factor).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Medicine
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Question 81
Incorrect
-
Which of the following is not secreted by cells in the antrum of the stomach?
Your Answer: Somatostatin
Correct Answer: Hydrochloric acid
Explanation:Cells in the body of the stomach secrete mucus, HCl and pepsinogen. Cells in the antrum secrete pepsinogen, gastrin and mucus.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
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Question 82
Correct
-
The mechanism of action of low molecular weight heparin, has the greatest effect on which of the following components of the coagulation cascade?
Your Answer: Factor Xa
Explanation:Mechanism of action of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH): It inhibits coagulation by activating antithrombin III. Antithrombin III binds to and inhibits factor Xa. In doing so it prevents activation of the final common path; Xa inactivation means that prothrombin is not activated to thrombin, thereby not converting fibrinogen into fibrin for the formation of a clot. LMHW is a small fragment of a larger mucopolysaccharide, heparin. Heparin works similarly, by binding antithrombin III and activating it. Heparin also has a binding site for thrombin, so thrombin can interact with antithrombin III and heparin, thus inhibiting coagulation. Heparin has a faster onset of anticoagulant action as it will inhibit not only Xa but also thrombin, while LMWH acts only on Xa inhibition.Compared to heparin, LMWHs have a longer half-life, so dosing is more predictable and can be less frequent, most commonly once per day.Dosage and uses:LMWH is administered via subcutaneous injection. This has long-term implications on the choice of anticoagulant for prophylaxis, for example, in orthopaedic patients recovering from joint replacement surgery, or in the treatment of DVT/PE.Adverse effects:The main risk of LMWH will be bleeding. The specific antidote for heparin-induced bleeding is protamine sulphate.Less commonly it can cause:Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT)Osteoporosis and spontaneous fracturesHypoaldosteronismHypersensitivity reactions
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 83
Incorrect
-
Glucose is typically removed from the urine by…?
Your Answer: Passive diffusion
Correct Answer: Secondary active transport
Explanation:Glucose, amino acids, inorganic phosphate, and some other solutes are resorbed via secondary active transport through co-transporters driven by the sodium gradient out of the nephron.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Renal
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Question 84
Incorrect
-
Which of the following statements is true regarding herpes simplex virus type I:
Your Answer: Reactivation causes shingles
Correct Answer: More than half of the population is infected.
Explanation:HSV-1 is often acquired orally during childhood. It may also be sexually transmitted, including contact with saliva, such as kissing and mouth-to-genital contact (oral sex). HSV-2 is primarily a sexually transmitted infection, but rates of HSV-1 genital infections are increasing. HSVs may persist in a quiescent but persistent form known as latent infection, notably in neural ganglia. HSV-1 tends to reside in the trigeminal ganglia, while HSV-2 tends to reside in the sacral ganglia, but these are tendencies only, not fixed behaviour. The virus can be reactivated by illnesses such as colds and influenza, eczema, emotional and physical stress, gastric upset, fatigue or injury, by menstruation and possibly exposure to bright sunlight. Genital Herpes may be reactivated by friction. Shingles is due to a reactivation of varicella zoster virus (VZV).
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Infectious Diseases
- Medicine
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Question 85
Incorrect
-
A 23 year old male presents with a history of lower back pain for the last one year. Presence of which of the following features most likely points towards ankylosing spondylitis?
Your Answer: Presence of HLA-B27 antigen on tissue typing
Correct Answer: Bilateral erosion of sacroiliac joints on X-ray
Explanation:Bilateral erosions of the sacroiliac joints on pelvic radiographs of patients with ankylosing spondylitis are an important feature of the modified New York classification criteria. Although HLA-B27 is commonly associated with AS, it can also be found in normal individuals. Back stiffness is worse in the morning and gets better as the day progresses. Tenderness and limited lumbar motion can be associated with other spine problems as well and is not characteristic of rheumatoid arthritis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Connective Tissue
- Medicine
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Question 86
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 87
Correct
-
The growth promoting protein anabolic effects of insulin are mediated by:
Your 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 88
Incorrect
-
The liver is the principal site for?
Your Answer: Synthesis of immunoglobulins
Correct Answer: Storage of iron
Explanation:The liver mainly synthesizes proteins including albumin, globulins and coalgulative factors. Vitamin B12 is taken in via the diet and stored by the liver. Vitamin C is not stored and excessive vitamin C is excreted via urine. Liver is the main site of iron storage, where it is stored in the form of ferritin.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Hepatobiliary
- Medicine
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Question 89
Correct
-
In Hirschsprung disease which one is incorrect
Your Answer: Due to congenital absence of myenteric and submucosal plexuses
Explanation:During normal prenatal development, cells from the neural crest migrate into the large intestine (colon) to form the networks of nerves called the myenteric plexus (Auerbach plexus) (between the smooth muscle layers of the gastrointestinal tract wall) and the submucosal plexus (Meissner plexus) (within the submucosa of the gastrointestinal tract wall). In Hirschsprung’s disease, the migration is not complete and part of the colon lacks these nerve bodies that regulate the activity of the colon. The affected segment of the colon cannot relax and pass stool through the colon, creating an obstruction.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
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Question 90
Incorrect
-
The spinal cord receive its blood supply from the following arteries except:
Your Answer: Radicular arteries
Correct Answer: Lateral spinal artery
Explanation:The spinal cord (SC) is supplied by the single anterior spinal artery which supplies the anterior two thirds of the SC and paired posterior spinal arteries supplying the posterior one third. Anastomoses between the spinal arteries supply the lateral column. These arteries originate near the cervico-occipital junction and therefore have a smaller calibre and often discontinue. Thus, they require reinforcement by segmental/radicular arteries which are branches of the ascending cervical artery, deep cervical artery, intercostal arteries, lumbar arteries and lateral sacral arteries
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 91
Correct
-
According to the Vaughan William's classification of antiarrhythmic agents, lidocaine is a:
Your Answer: Class Ib agent
Explanation:Lidocaine is an example of class IB antiarrhythmics.The Vaughan-Williams classification of antiarrhythmicsI: Membrane stabilizing agentsIA: Quinidine, Procainamide, DisopyramideIB: Lidocaine, MexiletineIC: Propafenone, Flecainide II: β blockers – Propranolol, EsmololIII: Agents widening AP – Amiodarone, Dronedarone, Dofetilide, Ibutilide, SotalolIV: Calcium channel blockers – Verapamil, DiltiazemV: Miscellaneous – Digoxin, adenosine, magnesium
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 92
Incorrect
-
Which of the following are true with regard to autosomal recessive disorders:
Your Answer: The parents of the affected offspring are generally unaffected healthy carriers
Correct Answer: All are true
Explanation:All are true for autosomal recessive disorders.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Genetics
- Medicine
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Question 93
Incorrect
-
Cholesterol is synthesized in all of these organs EXCEPT?
Your Answer: Intestine
Correct Answer: Stomach
Explanation:The liver primarily synthesizes about 20-25% of the total daily cholesterol. Cholesterol is also synthesized to smaller extents in the adrenal glands, reproductive organs (as cholesterol is the precursor of sex hormones), skin and is also produced in the intestines.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
-
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Question 94
Correct
-
Immortality can result from over expression of which enzyme?
Your Answer: Telomerase
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.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Genetics
- Medicine
-
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Question 95
Incorrect
-
The cells that secrete pepsinogen and gastric lipase are found in which part of the stomach?
Your Answer: Lower oesophageal sphincter
Correct Answer: Body and fundus
Explanation:Stomach can be divided in to different regions. Cardia, fundus, body, antrum and pylorus from proximal end to distal end respectively. Cells that secret the inactive form of pepsin or pepsinogen are chief cells and are abundant in the body (corpus) and the fundus region of the stomach.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
-
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Question 96
Incorrect
-
Which heart sounds are matched correctly?
Your Answer: S1 - closure of AV valves
Correct Answer: All of the above
Explanation:In healthy adults, there are two normal heart sounds often described as a lub and a dub (or dup), that occur in sequence with each heartbeat. These are the first heart sound (S1) and second heart sound (S2), produced by the closing of the atrioventricular valves and semilunar valves, respectively. In addition to these normal sounds, a variety of other sounds may be present including heart murmurs, adventitious sounds, and gallop rhythms S3 and S4. S3 is thought to be caused by the oscillation of blood back and forth between the walls of the ventricles initiated by blood rushing in from the atria. The reason the third heart sound does not occur until the middle third of diastole is probably that during the early part of diastole, the ventricles are not filled sufficiently to create enough tension for reverberation. S4 when audible in an adult is called a presystolic gallop or atrial gallop. This gallop is produced by the sound of blood being forced into a stiff or hypertrophic ventricle.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
-
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Question 97
Correct
-
A 28 year old man was rushed to the hospital after experiencing sudden onset chest pain while playing football. He has never felt such pain in the past. However, one of his uncles had a similar sudden discomfort at a young age and he passed away following a heart problem. The following vitals are recorded on examination:BP: 101/74 mmHgRR: 22 breaths/minPR: 87 beats/min Physical examination reveals abnormally long fingers and on asking the man to hold the opposite wrist, the thumb and little finger overlap each other. He is not taking any medication regularly and past medical/surgical history is not significant. He admits to smoking half pack of cigarettes/day for the last 10 years but denies abusing any illicit drugs. Which of the following explanation most likely explains the disease process in this man?
Your Answer: A defect of the glycoprotein structure which usually wraps around elastin
Explanation:Aortic dissection is defined as separation of the layers within the aortic wall. Tears in the intimal layer result in the propagation of dissection (proximally or distally) secondary to blood entering the intima-media space. This can be caused as a result of both congenital or acquired factors like chronic uncontrolled hypertension. This patient shows no sign of hypertension but his physical examination hints towards Marfan Syndrome. Marfan syndrome (MFS) is an autosomal dominant connective tissue disorder affecting the microfibrils and elastin in connective tissue throughout the body. MFS is associated with pathological manifestations in the cardiovascular system (e.g., mitral valve prolapse, aortic aneurysm, and dissection), the musculoskeletal system (e.g., tall stature with disproportionately long extremities, joint hypermobility), and the eyes (e.g., subluxation of the lens of the eye). Decreased collagen production occurs in ageing, hydroxylation defects are present in vitamin C deficiency, copper deficiency affecting lysyl oxidase enzyme occurs in Menke’s disease.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Connective Tissue
- Medicine
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Question 98
Incorrect
-
Which of the following forms the language areas of the cerebral cortex?
Your Answer: Submarginal sulcus
Correct Answer: All of the above
Explanation:Broca’s area, Wernicke’s area, the submarginal sulcus and the angular gyrus all form the language areas of the cerebral cortex.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 99
Correct
-
Where is Müllerian inhibiting substance (MIS) secreted?
Your Answer: Sertoli cells
Explanation:Müllerian inhibiting substance, also known as Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) or Müllerian-inhibiting hormone (MIH) is a glycoprotein hormone which prevents the development of the Müllerian ducts into the uterus. Its production by Sertoli cells continues during childhood in males and decreases after puberty.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
- Medicine
-
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Question 100
Incorrect
-
An obstruction in a pulmonary artery causes impaired perfusion to an area in the lung. The gas values in the unperfused alveoli at sea level will be:
Your Answer: PO2 = 0 CO2 = 0
Correct Answer: PO2 = 149 C02 =0
Explanation:Partial pressure of oxygen at sea level is approximately 160 mmHg. Partial pressure of oxygen in alveoli is around 150 mmHg and in an arteriole is around 80-100 mmHg. Partial pressure of carbon dioxide is around 35 mmHg in alveolar air and around 40 mmHg in the arteriole.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Respiratory
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Question 101
Incorrect
-
Which of the following hormones would stimulate secretion of TSH?
Your Answer: T3
Correct Answer: TRH
Explanation:Thyrotropin-releasing hormone, also known as TRH, thyrotropin-releasing factor, TRF is a hormone produced by the hypothalamus. It functions as a releasing hormone, promoting the production of thyroid-stimulating hormone or thyrotropin and prolactin.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Endocrinology
- Medicine
-
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Question 102
Incorrect
-
Afferent A δ fibers from nociceptors terminate primarily on neurons in which lamina:
Your Answer: III and IV
Correct Answer: I and V
Explanation:Nociceptors are receptors of pain sensation. There are 2 primary afferent/sensory pain fibers which transmit impulses from the receptor to the CNS, specifically to the dorsal horn of the spinal cord. The two fibers are A δ and C fibers. The dorsal horn of the spinal cord is the relay centre for sensory information converging from the periphery. Grey matter of the dorsal horn is subdivided in to laminae based on cytoarchitecture. C fibers terminate in lamina II the substantia gelatinosa. A δ fibers terminate primarily in lamina I but some project more deeply to terminate in lamina V.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 103
Incorrect
-
What is the primary problem of achalasia
Your Answer: Neuronal death in lower oesophageal sphincter
Correct Answer: Deficiency of myenteric plexus at the lower oesophageal sphincter
Explanation:Oesophageal achalasia is an oesophageal motility disorder involving the smooth muscle layer of the oesophagus is characterized by the failure of the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) relaxation and aperistalsis, caused primarily by the loss of the inhibitory innervation of the oesophageal myenteric plexus.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
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Question 104
Incorrect
-
The process where by DNA fragments are separated by size and charge is called:
Your Answer: Northern blotting
Correct 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 105
Incorrect
-
What is the rationale concerning the use of sodium cromoglycate in the prophylaxis of bronchial asthma?
Your Answer: Inhibition of acetylcholine at the synaptic junctions
Correct Answer: Inhibition of mast-cell degranulation
Explanation:Sodium cromoglycate principally acts by inhibiting the degranulation of mast cells triggered by the interaction of antigen and IgE. The inhibitory effect on mast cells appears to be cell-type specific since cromoglycate has little inhibitory effect on mediator release from human basophils.Thus, it inhibits the release of histamine, leukotrienes, and slow-reacting substance of anaphylaxis from mast cells by inhibiting degranulation following exposure to reactive antigens.Adverse effects include cough, flushing, palpitation, chest pain, nasal congestion, nausea, fatigue, migraine, etc.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
-
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Question 106
Correct
-
Regarding transportation of iron in the body, the process in which iron is transported from the enterocyte into the blood occurs using which transporter protein:
Your Answer: Ferroportin
Explanation:Divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1) transport several divalent metals including iron across the enterocyte’s cell membrane into the cell. The cell can then release it into the body via the only known iron exporter in mammals, ferroportin.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Haematology
- Medicine
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Question 107
Incorrect
-
Which of the following best describe Clostridium infection?
Your Answer: Gram negative bacilli
Correct Answer: Anaerobe
Explanation:Clostridium is a genus of Gram-positive bacteria, which includes several significant human pathogens, including the causative agent of botulism and an important cause of diarrhoea, Clostridium difficile. They are obligate anaerobes capable of producing endospores. The normal, reproducing cells of Clostridium, called the vegetative form, are rod-shaped, which gives them their name, from the Greek κλωστήρ or spindle.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Infectious Diseases
- Medicine
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Question 108
Incorrect
-
The pathogen in variant Creutzfeldt Jacobs disease is an example of a:
Your Answer: Arachnid
Correct Answer: Prion
Explanation:Types of Creutzfeldt Jacobs Disease (CJD) include:1. variant – This is thought to be caused by the consumption of food contaminated with prions, which also cause BSE.2. sporadic – This accounts for 85% of cases of CJD. 3. familial – This accounts for the majority of the other 15% cases of CJD.4. iatrogenic – This form of CJD arises from contamination with tissue from an infected person, usually as the result of a medical procedure.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Infectious Diseases
- Medicine
-
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Question 109
Incorrect
-
An important enzyme in renal tissue responsible for the conversion of glutamine to glutamate and the subsequent production of NH4 is called?
Your Answer: Glutamic dehydrogenase
Correct Answer: Glutaminase
Explanation:Glutaminase catalyses the following reaction:Glutamine + H2O → Glutamate + NH3
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Renal
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Question 110
Incorrect
-
Where is Basic Electrical rhythm initiated
Your Answer: Central nervous system
Correct Answer: Interstitial cells of cajal
Explanation:The interstitial cells of Cajal are specialized pacemaker cells located in the wall of the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. These cells are connected to the smooth muscle via gap junctions and the myenteric plexus. The cell membranes of the pacemaker cells undergo a rhythmic depolarization and repolarization from -65mV to -45mV. This rhythm of depolarization-repolarization of the cell membrane creates a slow wave known as a basic electrical rhythm (BER), and it is transmitted to the smooth muscle cells.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
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Question 111
Incorrect
-
What is the role of cyclin and cyklin-dependent kinases in mitosis:
Your Answer: Activation of growth factors
Correct Answer: Phosphorylation of proteins that make up pre-replication complexes
Explanation:There are certain regulators of the cell cycles that mediate progression through the cell cycle. These are cyclins and cyklin-dependent kinases (CDKs). They form a complex that phosphorylates protein involved in the cell cycle.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Genetics
- Medicine
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Question 112
Incorrect
-
During which phase of the cell cycle does transcription of DNA synthesis molecules occur?
Your Answer: G0
Correct Answer: S
Explanation:DNA synthesis occurs in the S phase of the cell cycle. In the G1 phase the cell prepares to divide. In G2 the cellular organelles divide and in the M phase mitosis occur. In the G0 phase the cell becomes quiescent and does not divide further.
Interphase is composed of G1 phase (cell growth), followed by S phase (DNA synthesis), followed by G2 phase (cell growth). At the end of interphase comes the mitotic phase, which is made up of mitosis and cytokinesis and leads to the formation of two daughter cells.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Genetics
- Medicine
-
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Question 113
Incorrect
-
Cells mediating innate immunity include:
Your Answer: Plasma cells
Correct Answer: Natural killer cells
Explanation:Natural killer cells have features of both innate and adaptive immunity. They play an important part in defence against tumours and viruses. They are non specific and do not generate immunological memory
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Immunology
- Medicine
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Question 114
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 115
Correct
-
Question 116
Incorrect
-
Question 117
Correct
-
Defects in chromosomal structure (and examples) include those mentioned below except:
Your Answer: Lyonization (x-linked disorders)
Explanation:All are true except for A) Lyonization which is the inactivation of the X chromosomes in a female. It is not a chromosomal abnormality.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Genetics
- Medicine
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Question 118
Incorrect
-
Which of the following suggests the presence of mitral regurgitation as well as mitral stenosis?
Your Answer: Raised JVP
Correct Answer: Displaced apex beat
Explanation:Mitral stenosis on its own does not lead to left ventricular dilatation and hence a displaced apex beat. Thus a displaced apex beat is suggestive of mixed mitral disease. The other options occur in mitral stenosis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 119
Incorrect
-
Empagliflozin was found to reduce the risk of cardiovascular deaths, non-fatal myocardial infarction and non-fatal stroke when added to standard treatment plans in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. This information was shared in 2015 by The New England Journal of Medicine and the results were expressed per 1000 patient years. In fact, empagliflozin had an event rate of 37.3/1000 patient years and placebo an event rate of 43.9/1000 patient years. How many patients who are at high cardiovascular risk need to be treated with empagliflozin to prevent a cardiovascular death, a non-fatal myocardial infarction or a non-fatal stroke?
Your Answer: 100
Correct Answer: 150
Explanation:The number needed to treat (NNT) is an absolute effect measure that has been used to assess beneficial and harmful effects of medical interventions. In this case the NNT can be calculated as follows: NNT = 1/ Absolute risk reduction (ARR). ARR=(Control event rate expressed per 1000 patient years) – (Experimental event rate expressed per 1000 patient years) = 43.9-37.3 = 6.6/1000 patient yearsNNT=(Patient years)/ARR = 1000/ 6.6 = 151.5. The closest to 151.5 is 150, thus it is the correct answer.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Research Skills
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Question 120
Incorrect
-
Cytochrome p450 enzymes expressed in hepatocytes serve to?
Your Answer: Conjugate a drug to make it more soluble.
Correct Answer: Facilitate oxidations or hydrolysis of drugs.
Explanation:Cytochrome p 450 are a family of proteins involved in drug metabolism which accounts for about 75% of the total metabolism. Most drugs are deactivated directly or by facilitated excretion from the body.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Hepatobiliary
- Medicine
-
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Question 121
Incorrect
-
A 46 year old male, known with Rheumatoid Arthritis presents with a swollen and painful right ankle. No drug allergies are reported. On examination, the vitals are as follows: Temp: 38.8BP: 90/60 mmHgPulse: 110/min. Right ankle examination reveals tenderness, warmth, erythema and tense joint effusion. Blood samples including blood cultures are collected and fluid resuscitation is initiated. Which of the following interventions would be most appropriate for this man?
Your Answer: Administer i.v. flucloxacillin, and arrange bone scan
Correct Answer: Administer i.v. flucloxacillin, and arrange joint aspiration urgently
Explanation:Although microscopic analysis of joint fluid aspirate and culture is the basis of septic arthritis diagnosis and should usually be collected before the administration of antibiotics, the patient is showing signs of septic shock. A delay in antibiotics might lead to worsening of symptoms so they are administered first.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Connective Tissue
- Medicine
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Question 122
Incorrect
-
Stimulation of the carotid sinus results in:
Your Answer: Sweating
Correct Answer: Drop in blood pressure
Explanation:Stimulation of the carotid sinus will result in an increase in the baroreceptor discharge. This will travel via the afferent nerves to the medulla. Signals will pass through the vagus nerve to decrease the sympathetic outflow to the heart and the blood vessels. This inhibition will result in vasodilation of the blood vessels, venodilation and bradycardia hence decreasing the total peripheral resistance and lowering the blood pressure.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 123
Correct
-
The Wiebel-Palade body found in the endothelial cells is responsible for the production and release of which factor?
Your Answer: Von Willebrand factor
Explanation:Weibel-Palade bodies are the storage granules of endothelial cells, the cells that form the inner lining of the blood vessels and heart. They store and release two principal molecules, von Willebrand factor and P-selectin, and thus play a dual role in haemostasis and inflammation.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 124
Incorrect
-
Which of the following causes the closure of the ductus arteriosus during birth?
Your Answer: Increased levels of prostaglandins
Correct 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 125
Correct
-
Question 126
Incorrect
-
The hippocampus is involved in the memory of:
Your Answer: Habituation
Correct Answer: Facts
Explanation:The hippocampus plays an important role in forming new memories about experienced events. Some researchers say that hippocampus plays a major role in declarative memory for example memory of facts.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 127
Incorrect
-
A 85 year old male with a history of Alzheimer's dementia was brought into Casualty by family members, who stated that he had episodes of aggression. Which of the following drugs is most suitable as the pharmacological management for this presentation?
Your Answer: Valproate
Correct Answer: Risperidone
Explanation:Regarding the pharmacological management, Risperidone is the most suitable drug from the given answers as it is recommended for the treatment of aggression associated with moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease. Quetiapine and Benzodiazepine are not recommended.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Geriatrics
- Medicine
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Question 128
Incorrect
-
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: Chloride channels
Correct 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 129
Incorrect
-
Which one of the following conditions is least likely to be associated with pyoderma gangrenosum?
Your Answer: Ulcerative colitis
Correct Answer: Syphilis
Explanation:The following are conditions commonly associated with pyoderma gangrenosum:
Inflammatory bowel disease:
- Ulcerative colitis
- Crohn’s disease
Arthritides:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Seronegative arthritis
Haematological disease:
- Myelocytic leukaemia
- Hairy cell leukaemia
- Myelofibrosis
- Myeloid metaplasia
- Monoclonal gammopathy
Autoinflammatory disease:
- Pyogenic sterile arthritis, pyoderma gangrenosum, and acne syndrome (PAPA syndrome)
- Granulomatosis with polyangiitis
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Dermatology
- Medicine
-
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Question 130
Incorrect
-
Which of the following drugs requires plasma level monitoring?
Your Answer: Ciprofloxacin
Correct 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 131
Incorrect
-
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: Transmission of the action potential via the T system
Correct 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
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Question 132
Incorrect
-
A 74-year-old man who has been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation and heart failure is being started on digoxin. What is the mechanism of action of digoxin?
Your Answer: Blocks Ca2+ release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum
Correct Answer:
Explanation:Digoxin works by inhibiting the Na+/K+ ATPase pump in cardiac myocytes. Here’s how it works:
- Inhibition of Na+/K+ ATPase: Digoxin binds to and inhibits the Na+/K+ ATPase pump, which is responsible for pumping sodium out of the cell and potassium into the cell.
- Increased intracellular sodium: Inhibition of this pump leads to an increase in intracellular sodium levels.
- Decreased activity of the sodium-calcium exchanger: The increased intracellular sodium reduces the activity of the sodium-calcium exchanger, which normally pumps calcium out of the cell in exchange for sodium.
- Increased intracellular calcium: As a result, intracellular calcium levels rise because less calcium is being extruded from the cell. The increased calcium is then stored in the sarcoplasmic reticulum.
- Enhanced contractility: During each action potential, more calcium is released from the sarcoplasmic reticulum into the cytoplasm, which enhances the contractility of the heart muscle (positive inotropic effect).
By increasing the force of contraction, digoxin helps improve cardiac output in patients with heart failure. Additionally, digoxin has vagomimetic effects, which can help control the heart rate in atrial fibrillation by increasing vagal tone and thereby reducing the conduction velocity through the atrioventricular node.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
-
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Question 133
Incorrect
-
Regarding CSF:
Your Answer: Its volume is about 150ml – 500ml
Correct Answer: Disruption of arachnoid villi function results in a communicating hydrocephalus
Explanation:In normal adults CSF volume is around 125ml to 150ml. Turnover of the entire volume of cerebrospinal fluid is about 3 to 4 times a day. Composition of CSF is similar to that of plasma except that CSF is nearly protein-free compared with plasma and has different electrolyte levels. Blockage of the foramina causes an obstructive or non-communicating hydrocephalus. Communicating hydrocephalus or non-obstructive hydrocephalus is caused by impaired CSF reabsorption in the absence of any CSF flow obstruction.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Neurology
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Question 134
Incorrect
-
A 50-year-old farmer, under treatment for depression, presents to the emergency department following an intentional overdose of an unidentified substance. On examination, he was found to be bradycardic, hypotensive, hyper-salivating, and disoriented. On ocular examination, his pupils were found to be miotic. What is the most likely substance he ingested?
Your Answer: A tricyclic antidepressant
Correct Answer: An organophosphate insecticide
Explanation:The farmer has most likely ingested an organophosphate insecticide.Organophosphorus compounds are used widely as:• Insecticides – Malathion, parathion, diazinon, dichlorvos• Nerve gases – Soman, sarin, tabun, VX• Ophthalmic agents – Echothiophate• Antihelmintics – Trichlorfon• Herbicides – merphos• Industrial chemical (plasticizer) – Tricresyl phosphateSigns and symptoms of Organophosphorus Poisoning (OPP) can be classified as:• Muscarinic effects:o Cardiovascular – Bradycardia, hypotensiono Respiratory – Rhinorrhoea, bronchorrhea, bronchospasm, cough, severe respiratory distresso Gastrointestinal – Hypersalivation, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, faecal incontinenceo Genitourinary – Incontinenceo Ocular – Blurred vision, miosiso Glands – Increased lacrimation, diaphoresis• Nicotinic effects:o Muscle fasciculation, weakness, cramping, diaphragmatic failure, and autonomic side effects include: hypertension, tachycardia, and mydriasis.• Central nervous system (CNS) effects:o Anxiety, emotional lability, restlessness, confusion, ataxia, tremors, seizures, coma, apnoeaMainstay Treatment:• Decontamination• Securing Airway, Breathing and Circulation• Atropine• Pralidoxime• Benzodiazepines
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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Question 135
Incorrect
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Troponin I is inhibited by calcium binding to:
Your Answer: Cardiolipin
Correct Answer: Troponin c
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 cause 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 136
Incorrect
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A 60 year old male presents with one month history of generalized headache, fever and malaise. He also complains of scalp sensitivity while combing his hair. In order to confirm the diagnosis, which of the following would be the definite test?
Your Answer: CT scan
Correct Answer: Temporal artery biopsy
Explanation:Temporal arteritis is a chronic large- and medium-sized vessel vasculitis that typically involves the temporal arteries. Classical symptoms include temporal headaches, jaw claudication, amaurosis fugax. Physical exam shows scalp tenderness, palpation of the temporal area may demonstrate an absent pulse, knot-like swelling, and vision loss. Lab results reveal an increased erythematous sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein. Temporal artery biopsy confirms the diagnosis. Management approach: high-dose systemic corticosteroids should be promptly administered even before the diagnosis is established. Temporal artery biopsy confirms the diagnosis. Inability to manage this or administer glucocorticoids might lead to development of blindness.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Connective Tissue
- Medicine
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Question 137
Incorrect
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Question 138
Incorrect
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Sympathetic supply to the stomach is derived from
Your Answer: T5-T9 spinal segments via the superior mesenteric ganglion
Correct Answer: T5-T9 spinal segments via the coeliac ganglion
Explanation:Parasympathetic innervation to the stomach is from the vagus nerve and the sympathetic innervation is from the T5-T9 spinal segments via the coeliac ganglion through the greater splanchnic nerve.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal
- Medicine
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Question 139
Incorrect
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The major factor in controlling coronary artery blood flow is considered to be?
Your Answer: Shear pressure in coronary vessels
Correct 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 140
Incorrect
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A 31 year old female with systemic lupus erythematosus wants to know if she has any predisposing factors for the disease. Which of the following carries the greatest risk of developing SLE?
Your Answer: Positive HLA–DR2
Correct Answer: Monozygotic twin
Explanation:An overall concordance rate in monozygotic twins was documented to be 25% as compared to dizygotic twins with 3%. First degree relatives have a chance of around 3% of developing the disease. Caucasians show an increase frequency of HLA-B8. The Japanese lupus patients had a stronger association with HLA-DR2.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Connective Tissue
- Medicine
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Question 141
Correct
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The actions of thrombin result directly in the release of:
Your Answer: Fibrin monomers
Explanation: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 142
Incorrect
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Which of the following isoforms of Nitric oxide synthase (NOS) is found in endothelial cells?
Your Answer: Nos 1
Correct Answer: Nos 3
Explanation:There are only 3 isoforms:NOS 1: found in nervous systemNOS 2: in macrophages and other immune cellsNOS 3: In endothelial cells
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Cardiovascular
- Medicine
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Question 143
Correct
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Question 144
Incorrect
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The hepatic portal vein:
Your Answer: Has no oxygen content
Correct 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 145
Incorrect
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Which is the primary lymphoid organ?
Your Answer: Payers patches
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 146
Incorrect
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A 33 year old female presents with dyspnoea, myalgia, arthralgia and a skin rash. The presence of which of the following antibodies would be the most specific for SLE?
Your Answer: Anti-Ro
Correct Answer: Anti-Sm
Explanation:Anti-Sm antibodies are essential for diagnosis of SLE, especially in anti-dsDNA-negative patients. ANA are also found in 95% of the patients with SLE but they may also occur with other conditions like Juvenile inflammatory arthritis, chronic activity hepatitis, and Sjogren’s syndrome. Anti-Ro, although also found with SLE are more characteristic of Sjogren Syndrome. RF is usually associated with rheumatoid arthritis and cANCA with Wegener’s granulomatosis, Churg Strauss, and microscopic polyangiitis.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Connective Tissue
- Medicine
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Question 147
Correct
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Select the correct statement regarding portal hypertension.
Your Answer: The total vascular resistance of the hepatic sinusoids is increased.
Explanation:Portal hypertension is increased blood pressure within the portal venous system. This happens mainly due to liver damage which increases the vascular resistance of hepatic sinusoids by interfering with the normal blood flow. Portal blood pressure increases and flow through the liver decreases. Normal portal venous pressure is between 5-10 mmHg and in portal hypertension it’s usually more than 10 mmHg. This high pressure can cause accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity known as ascites. To overcome the pressure, the portal vein starts to drain blood to systemic circulation via porto-systemic shunts. The connection between the portal vein and inferior vena cava is known as the porto caval shunt. Due to damaged hepatocytes, detoxification of substances absorbed in the intestine is impaired and the former shunt mixes non-detoxified blood with the systemic circulation. These toxic substances may affect neurons causing hepatic encephalopathy which is a major complication of portal hypertension.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Hepatobiliary
- Medicine
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Question 148
Incorrect
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Choose the standard method for comparing distributions in data sets (such as between the expected frequency of an event and the observed frequency of an event) from the list of options.
Your Answer: Mean
Correct Answer: Chi squared (X²) test
Explanation:The Chi-squared test evaluates if two variables are related. The other statistical tests mentioned do not perform this function.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Research Skills
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Question 149
Correct
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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 150
Incorrect
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A 33-year-old electrical technician presents following an overdose. Anticholinergic syndrome is suspected. Which of the following is true?
Your Answer:
Correct Answer: Mydriasis occurs
Explanation:Anticholinergic syndrome occurs following overdose with drugs that have prominent anticholinergic activity including tricyclic antidepressants, antihistamines and atropine. Features include dry, warm, flushed skin, urinary retention, tachycardia, mydriasis (dilated pupils) and agitation.
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This question is part of the following fields:
- Medicine
- Pharmacology
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SESSION STATS - PERFORMANCE PER SPECIALTY
