Nursing Elites

1. Glial cells support and protect neurons within the central and peripheral nervous system. What are they called?

• A. Astrocytes
• B. Neuroglia
• C. Oligodendrocytes
• D. Schwann cells

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Astrocytes are a type of glial cell that provide support and protection for neurons in both the central and peripheral nervous systems. While the term 'Neuroglia' is often used to refer to glial cells collectively, in this context, the question specifically asks for the name of the cells, making 'Astrocytes' the correct answer. Choice B, 'Neuroglia,' is a general term for all glial cells, not a specific type. Choices C and D, 'Oligodendrocytes' and 'Schwann cells,' are also types of glial cells but are not the primary cells responsible for supporting and protecting neurons as described in the question.

2. A ball is thrown horizontally off a cliff. Which of the following forces is responsible for its downward motion?

• A. The force of throwing
• B. Normal force from the air
• C. Tension force from the string (if used)
• D. Gravitational force

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The gravitational force is responsible for the downward motion of the ball. When the ball is thrown horizontally off a cliff, the only force acting on it in the vertical direction is the force of gravity, which pulls the ball downward towards the ground. The other forces mentioned (force of throwing, normal force from the air, tension force from the string) do not contribute to the ball's downward motion in this scenario. The force of throwing initiates the horizontal motion, the normal force from the air opposes the ball's motion through air resistance, and tension force from the string would only be relevant if a string were attached to the ball. Therefore, gravitational force is the primary force responsible for the ball's downward motion in this situation.

3. What is the primary function of tight junctions, specialized regions between animal cells?

• A. Communication between cells
• B. Anchorage between cells
• C. Selective passage of materials
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Selective passage of materials. Tight junctions act as specialized structures between animal cells that create a barrier to the passage of materials. Their primary function is to prevent the leakage of extracellular fluid and control the selective passage of molecules between cells. This selective control is crucial in regulating the movement of substances across cell layers. Tight junctions do not directly facilitate communication between cells or provide anchorage between cells, as their main role is to regulate the passage of materials. Choices A and B are incorrect as tight junctions do not primarily serve for communication or anchorage between cells.

4. Which hormone, produced by the pancreas, is involved in the regulation of blood sugar levels by inhibiting the release of insulin and promoting the release of glucose into the bloodstream?

• A. Insulin
• B. Glucagon
• C. Cortisol
• D. Somatostatin

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Somatostatin. Somatostatin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels by inhibiting the release of insulin and promoting the release of glucose into the bloodstream. It acts as a counterbalance to insulin, preventing excess insulin secretion and ensuring the availability of glucose when needed. Therefore, somatostatin helps maintain blood sugar balance in the body. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Insulin is responsible for lowering blood sugar levels, while glucagon and cortisol have roles that differ from the functions described in the question.

5. Nuclear fusion powers the sun and other stars. What is the main obstacle to achieving controlled nuclear fusion on Earth for energy production?

• A. Lack of suitable materials to handle high temperatures and pressures.
• B. Limited availability of fusion fuels like deuterium and tritium.
• C. Difficulty in containing the plasma where fusion occurs.
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The main obstacle to achieving controlled nuclear fusion on Earth for energy production involves a combination of factors. A) Lack of suitable materials to handle high temperatures and pressures is a significant challenge due to the extreme conditions required for fusion reactions. B) Limited availability of fusion fuels like deuterium and tritium can pose a constraint on the scalability and sustainability of fusion energy. C) Difficulty in containing the plasma where fusion occurs is another critical issue as plasma instabilities and heat losses can hinder the efficiency of fusion reactions. Therefore, all of the options (A, B, and C) contribute to the challenges in achieving controlled nuclear fusion for energy production on Earth.

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