Nursing Elites

1. Homologous structures are similar structures in different organisms that have a common evolutionary origin. An example is:

• A. Butterfly wings and bird wings (analogous structures with different origins)
• B. The arm of a human, the wing of a bat, and the flipper of a whale
• C. The eyes of an octopus and a human (convergent evolution with different origins)
• D. The stinger of a bee and the barb of a cactus (unrelated structures)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Homologous structures are similar structures found in different organisms that share a common evolutionary origin. The arm of a human, the wing of a bat, and the flipper of a whale are all examples of homologous structures. Despite serving different functions, they share a common underlying structure due to their evolutionary relationship, evidencing a shared ancestry. These structures are modified over time to suit the specific needs of each species. Option A (Butterfly wings and bird wings) refers to analogous structures with different origins. Option C (The eyes of an octopus and a human) describes convergent evolution where traits evolve independently. Option D (The stinger of a bee and the barb of a cactus) are unrelated structures.

2. What is the dermis composed of?

• A. Adipose tissue
• B. Epithelial cells
• C. Connective tissue
• D. Muscle tissue

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Connective tissue. The dermis is primarily composed of connective tissue, which includes collagen and elastin fibers that provide strength and elasticity to the skin. It houses blood vessels, nerve endings, hair follicles, and glands, playing a crucial role in supporting the skin structure and function. Adipose tissue (choice A) is found in the subcutaneous layer beneath the dermis, providing insulation and energy storage. Epithelial cells (choice B) form the outermost layer of the skin called the epidermis. Muscle tissue (choice D) is not a significant component of the dermis but is found deeper in the body associated with movement and support.

3. Which type of cell secretes antibodies?

• A. Bacterial cells
• B. Viral cells
• C. Lymph cells
• D. Plasma cells

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Plasma cells. Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell that secretes antibodies. Antibodies are essential components of the immune system, as they help in identifying and neutralizing pathogens. Choice A, B, and C are incorrect as bacterial cells and viral cells do not secrete antibodies, and lymph cells are involved in the immune response but do not secrete antibodies like plasma cells.

4. What does potency refer to in regards to cells?

• A. The cell's ability to survive
• B. The cell's ability to move
• C. The cell's ability to divide rapidly
• D. The cell's ability to differentiate

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Potency refers to a cell's potential to differentiate into different cell types. It is not related to the cell's ability to survive (Choice A), move (Choice B), or divide rapidly (Choice C). Stem cells, for example, exhibit varying degrees of potency based on their capacity to give rise to various cell types. Therefore, the correct answer is D as it accurately defines the concept of potency in cells.

5. What are the building blocks of proteins?

• A. Sugars
• B. Fatty acids
• C. Amino acids
• D. Nucleotides

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Proteins are macromolecules made up of long chains of amino acids. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and are linked together through peptide bonds to form polypeptide chains, which then fold into specific three-dimensional structures to carry out various functions in the body. Sugars (choice A) are the building blocks of carbohydrates, fatty acids (choice B) are the building blocks of lipids, and nucleotides (choice D) are the building blocks of nucleic acids like DNA and RNA. Therefore, the correct answer is amino acids (choice C), as they are specifically responsible for protein synthesis.

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