Emrapproved Monthly Medical Trivia - January 2012

Explanation
Clara Barton is the correct answer because she is widely recognized as the founder of the American Red Cross. She established the organization in 1881 and served as its first president. Barton's humanitarian efforts during the American Civil War, where she provided medical aid and supplies to soldiers, laid the foundation for the establishment of the American Red Cross. Her dedication to helping others and her organizational skills were instrumental in creating one of the most prominent humanitarian organizations in the United States.

Explanation
The human spine is made up of 33 bones. These bones are called vertebrae and are stacked on top of one another to form the spinal column. The spine plays a crucial role in supporting the body, protecting the spinal cord, and allowing for movement and flexibility. Each vertebra has a specific shape and function, and together they create the structure that allows us to stand upright and perform various movements.

Explanation
The duodenum is largely responsible for the breakdown of food in the small intestine. It is the first part of the small intestine and receives partially digested food from the stomach. The duodenum plays a crucial role in the digestion process by receiving digestive enzymes from the pancreas and bile from the liver. These enzymes and bile help break down proteins, carbohydrates, and fats into smaller molecules that can be absorbed by the body. Therefore, the duodenum is essential for the breakdown and absorption of nutrients from food in the small intestine.

Explanation
Nephrology is the correct answer because it is the medical field that specifically focuses on the study, diagnosis, and treatment of kidney diseases and disorders. It involves understanding the structure and function of the kidneys, as well as the various conditions that can affect them. Hepatology is the study of the liver, while urology deals with the urinary system as a whole, including the kidneys, bladder, and urethra.

Explanation
The pleura is a thin membrane that surrounds and protects the lungs. It consists of two layers, the visceral pleura which covers the outer surface of the lungs, and the parietal pleura which lines the inner surface of the chest cavity. The pleura helps to reduce friction between the lungs and the chest wall during breathing and also plays a role in maintaining lung expansion and stability. Therefore, the correct answer is lungs.

Explanation
TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint, which is the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. This joint allows for the movement of the jaw, enabling actions such as chewing, speaking, and yawning. Therefore, the correct answer is Jaw.

Explanation
The liver is the large gland in the right upper abdomen that is divided into 4 lobes. It is responsible for various important functions in the body, including detoxification, metabolism of nutrients, production of bile, and storage of vitamins and minerals. The liver plays a crucial role in digestion and overall body health.

Explanation
The correct answer is dermis. The dermis is the layer of skin that lies beneath the epidermis. It is composed of connective tissue and contains blood vessels, nerves, hair follicles, and sweat glands. The dermis provides support and elasticity to the skin and is responsible for the regulation of body temperature.

Explanation
Rabies is the correct answer because it is an acute Central Nervous System infection that is typically transmitted through an animal bite. It is caused by the rabies virus and affects the brain and spinal cord, leading to symptoms such as fever, headache, confusion, and paralysis. If left untreated, rabies can be fatal.

Explanation
Blood cells form and develop in the bone marrow. The bone marrow is a soft, spongy tissue found inside the bones. It is responsible for producing red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the body's tissues, white blood cells help fight infections, and platelets are involved in blood clotting. The liver plays a role in blood filtering and detoxification, but it does not produce blood cells. The heart is responsible for pumping blood, not producing blood cells. Platelets are a component of blood cells and are not involved in their formation.