The anterior, middle, and posterior scalene muscles are the oblique muscles of the neck, which ________.

A) elevate the first two ribs and/or flex the neck
B) depress the first two ribs and flex the neck
C) elevate the first two ribs and enlarge the thoracic cavity
D) depress the first two ribs and flex the vertebral column
E) elevate the first two ribs and oppose the diaphragm