Nursing Elites

1. After the Industrial Revolution, the population of peppered moths in England shifted towards more dark moths. This is an example of:

• A. Artificial selection (selective breeding by humans for desired traits)
• B. Natural selection acting on pre-existing variation
• C. Punctuated equilibrium (rapid bursts of evolution)
• D. Lamarckism (inheritance of acquired characteristics)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The shift in the peppered moth population towards more dark moths in England after the Industrial Revolution exemplifies natural selection acting on pre-existing variation. Initially, light-colored moths were well-camouflaged against lichen-covered tree trunks, but with industrial pollution darkening the tree trunks, dark-colored moths gained a survival advantage. This change reflects how the environment favored dark moths over light ones, illustrating natural selection. The process illustrates how organisms with traits advantageous in a changing environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, leading to the prevalence of those traits in the population over time. The choices of artificial selection (A), punctuated equilibrium (C), and Lamarckism (D) are not applicable in this scenario. Artificial selection involves intentional breeding by humans, punctuated equilibrium refers to rapid bursts of evolution followed by periods of stability, and Lamarckism suggests the inheritance of acquired characteristics, none of which align with the observed shift in moth populations based on environmental changes.

2. Calcitonin, a hormone that helps regulate calcium levels, is produced by the:

• A. Thyroid gland
• B. Parathyroid gland
• C. Thymus gland
• D. Adrenal gland

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Calcitonin is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland. It helps regulate calcium levels in the body by inhibiting the breakdown of bone and promoting calcium excretion by the kidneys. The parathyroid gland produces parathyroid hormone (PTH), which works in opposition to calcitonin to regulate calcium levels. The thymus gland is involved in the development of the immune system, and the adrenal gland produces hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. Therefore, the correct answer is the thyroid gland as it specifically secretes calcitonin for calcium regulation.

3. What is the name of the white blood cells that attack foreign invaders?

• A. Phagocytes
• B. Lymphocytes
• C. Platelets
• D. Red blood cells

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Phagocytes are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune system by engulfing and digesting foreign invaders such as bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances. They are part of the body's innate immune response and are essential for protecting the body against infections. Lymphocytes, on the other hand, are another type of white blood cell involved in the adaptive immune response, producing antibodies, and coordinating immune responses. Platelets are cell fragments involved in blood clotting, while red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen to tissues. Therefore, the correct answer is Phagocytes (Choice A) because they are specifically tasked with attacking and destroying foreign invaders in the body, distinguishing them from the other choices which have different functions within the immune system.

4. What is the approximate composition of blood?

• A. 45% plasma, 55% formed elements
• B. 55% plasma, 45% formed elements
• C. 55% water, 45% blood cells
• D. 45% water, 55% plasma

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Blood is composed of approximately 55% plasma (mostly water with proteins, electrolytes, and nutrients) and 45% formed elements (red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets). Choice B is the correct answer. Choice A is incorrect as it reverses the percentages. Choice C is incorrect because it incorrectly states that blood cells make up 45% of blood, while they are part of the formed elements along with platelets. Choice D is incorrect as it suggests that water makes up 45% of blood, which is not accurate.

5. Which of the following is the main organ responsible for producing enzymes?

• A. Liver
• B. Pancreas
• C. Stomach
• D. Small intestine

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The main organ responsible for producing enzymes is the pancreas. Enzymes are proteins that act as biological catalysts to speed up chemical reactions in the body. The pancreas produces and releases digestive enzymes that help break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in the small intestine to aid in the digestion and absorption of nutrients. While the liver also plays a role in producing bile, which helps in the digestion and absorption of fats, the primary organ responsible for producing enzymes is the pancreas. The stomach produces gastric juices containing hydrochloric acid and pepsin to help break down food, but it is not the primary organ for enzyme production. The small intestine is where most nutrient digestion and absorption occur; however, it receives enzymes from organs like the pancreas rather than producing them itself.

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