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. In which regions of the digestive system is amylase produced?

• A. pancreas and salivary glands
• B. gall bladder and salivary glands
• C. gall bladder and liver
• D. pancreas and liver

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Amylase is an enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates into smaller sugars. It is produced in the pancreas and salivary glands. The salivary glands release amylase into the mouth during chewing, where it initiates the breakdown of carbohydrates. The pancreas also secretes amylase into the small intestine to further assist in carbohydrate digestion. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as the gall bladder does not produce amylase, and the liver's primary function is not the production of amylase for carbohydrate breakdown.

3. What property of matter determines its resistance to changes in shape or size?

• A. Solid
• B. Liquid
• C. Gas
• D. Plasma

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Solid.' Solids have a definite shape and volume, providing them with a strong resistance to changes in shape or size. Liquids and gases do not have a definite shape, making them prone to changing shape or size easily. Plasmas, on the other hand, are ionized gases with high energy levels and lack a definite shape or volume, which does not contribute to resistance against changes in shape or size. Therefore, the properties of solids make them best suited for resisting changes in shape or size compared to liquids, gases, and plasmas.

4. Which of the following is a pair of nerves that originates from the brain?

• A. Spinal nerves
• B. Olfactory nerves
• C. Sciatic nerve
• D. Optic nerve

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The olfactory nerves, choice B, are a pair of cranial nerves that originate from the brain. They are responsible for the sense of smell and are the only cranial nerves that directly connect to the cerebrum. Spinal nerves, choice A, originate from the spinal cord, the sciatic nerve, choice C, is a large nerve that originates in the lower back, and the optic nerve, choice D, originates from the retina of the eye. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not originate directly from the brain.

5. The body's first line of defense against pathogens is the innate immune system. Which of the following is NOT a component of the innate immune system?

• A. Physical barriers like skin and mucous membranes
• B. Phagocytes that engulf and destroy pathogens
• C. Inflammatory response to isolate and contain infection
• D. Production of antibodies specific to a particular pathogen

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The production of antibodies specific to a particular pathogen is a function of the adaptive immune system, not the innate immune system. The innate immune system provides immediate, non-specific defense mechanisms against pathogens, including physical barriers, phagocytes, and inflammatory responses. Choices A, B, and C are all correct components of the innate immune system. Physical barriers like skin and mucous membranes act as the first line of defense, preventing pathogens from entering the body. Phagocytes are specialized cells that engulf and destroy pathogens, while the inflammatory response helps isolate and contain infections to prevent their spread.

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