Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of the sphincters in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract?

Accepted Answer

They regulate the passage of material between different sections of the GI tract.

Question 2

During the intestinal phase of digestion, what happens to the nerve signals sent to the stomach when chyme stretches the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

Nerve signals to the stomach decrease, inhibiting gastric motility.

Question 3

Which hormone is secreted by the pancreas and acts to lower blood glucose levels by promoting cellular uptake of glucose?

Accepted Answer

Insulin

Question 4

A patient with Type 1 diabetes mellitus is experiencing excessive urination, dehydration, and high blood glucose. Which metabolic process is most likely increased in this patient?

Accepted Answer

Gluconeogenesis

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the difference between anabolic and catabolic pathways?

Accepted Answer

Anabolic pathways build complex molecules from simpler ones using energy, while catabolic pathways break down molecules to release energy.

Question 6

Which of the following is a function of the enteric nervous system (ENS) in the GI tract?

Accepted Answer

Controlling local digestive reflexes independently of the central nervous system

Question 7

During the cephalic phase of digestion, which of the following triggers increased gastric secretions?

Accepted Answer

Sight, smell, or thought of food activating higher brain centers

Question 8

Which of the following best explains why bacteria can cause diarrhea?

Accepted Answer

Bacteria stimulate secretion of water and electrolytes into the intestinal lumen.

Question 9

Which of the following is the correct sequence of events in the defecation reflex?

Accepted Answer

Stretching of the rectum → relaxation of the internal anal sphincter → voluntary relaxation of the external anal sphincter

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the effect of cholecystokinin (CCK) on the digestive system?

Accepted Answer

CCK stimulates the release of digestive enzymes from the pancreas and bile from the gallbladder.

Question 11

Which of the following equations correctly represents the process of gluconeogenesis?

Accepted Answer

$$2 \mathrm{Pyruvate} + 4 \mathrm{ATP} + 2 \mathrm{GTP} + 2 \mathrm{NADH} + 6 \mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O} \rightarrow 1 \mathrm{Glucose} + 4 \mathrm{ADP} + 2 \mathrm{GDP} + 6 \mathrm{P_i} + 2 \mathrm{NAD}^+ + 2 \mathrm{H}^+$$

Question 12

A patient is diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. Which of the following is NOT a diagnostic criterion for metabolic syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Low blood pressure

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the role of the G-cell in the stomach?

Accepted Answer

Secretes gastrin, which stimulates gastric acid secretion

Question 14

Which of the following is a major effect of insulin on metabolism?

Accepted Answer

Promotes glucose uptake and storage as glycogen in muscle and liver

Question 15

Which of the following statements about the absorptive (fed) state is correct?

Accepted Answer

Insulin secretion is increased.

Question 16

Which of the following is a correct description of peristalsis in the GI tract?

Accepted Answer

Coordinated, wave-like contractions that propel contents forward

Question 17

A patient with Type 2 diabetes is advised to begin therapy. According to current guidelines, what is the first-line therapy for most patients?

Accepted Answer

Lifestyle modification (diet and exercise)

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the function of the migrating motor complex (MMC) in the GI tract?

Accepted Answer

Sweeps residual undigested material through the GI tract during fasting

Question 19

Which of the following is a correct statement about the regulation of insulin secretion?

Accepted Answer

Parasympathetic stimulation increases insulin secretion.

Question 20

Which of the following is a correct description of the Valsalva maneuver?

Accepted Answer

A forced expiration against a closed glottis, increasing intra-abdominal pressure

Digestive System and Energy Metabolism: Study Guide for Human Physiology

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