Nursing Elites

1. What is the primary function of the mucous membrane lining the muscular tube connecting the mouth to the stomach?

• A. Secretion of digestive enzymes
• B. Absorption of nutrients
• C. Lubrication and protection
• D. Storage of bile

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The primary function of the mucous membrane lining the muscular tube connecting the mouth to the stomach is to provide lubrication and protection. This mucous membrane serves to protect the esophageal lining from damage caused by the passage of food and liquids. It also aids in facilitating the smooth passage of food from the mouth to the stomach by lubricating it, ensuring easier movement. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as the mucous membrane does not secrete digestive enzymes, absorb nutrients, or store bile. Its main role is primarily related to lubricating and protecting the lining of the tube.

2. Which enzyme found in saliva is responsible for breaking down carbohydrates into smaller molecules like sugars?

• A. Pepsin
• B. Amylase
• C. Lipase
• D. Trypsin

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Saliva contains an enzyme called amylase, which specifically targets carbohydrates and breaks them down into smaller molecules like sugars. Pepsin, choice A, is an enzyme found in the stomach that breaks down proteins, not carbohydrates. Lipase, choice C, is responsible for breaking down fats, not carbohydrates. Trypsin, choice D, is an enzyme that breaks down proteins in the small intestine, not carbohydrates. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect for this question.

3. DNA has both a 'sense' and 'antisense' strand. What is true about the antisense strand?

• A. It runs 5' to 3'.
• B. It runs 3' to 5'.
• C. It is used in replication.
• D. It is the direction in which DNA is stored.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The antisense strand runs 3' to 5', which is opposite to the direction of the sense strand. It serves as the template strand for transcription, where an RNA molecule is synthesized complementary to the antisense strand. Choice A is incorrect because the antisense strand runs in the opposite direction. Choice C is incorrect as the antisense strand is primarily involved in transcription, not replication. Choice D is incorrect as the direction of DNA storage is not determined by the antisense strand.

4. Which of the following hormones is produced by the adrenal medulla and prepares the body for a stressful situation?

• A. Testosterone
• B. Cortisol
• C. Epinephrine (adrenaline)
• D. Growth hormone

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Epinephrine (adrenaline). Epinephrine is produced by the adrenal medulla and is responsible for preparing the body for a stressful situation. It increases heart rate, dilates airways, and mobilizes energy stores to help the body respond to a fight-or-flight scenario. Testosterone (Choice A) is a sex hormone produced by the testes in males and in smaller amounts by the ovaries in females, not by the adrenal medulla. Cortisol (Choice B) is a stress hormone produced by the adrenal cortex, not the adrenal medulla. Growth hormone (Choice D) is produced by the pituitary gland and is involved in growth, metabolism, and various bodily functions, not by the adrenal medulla.

5. What term refers to the point of contact between a motor neuron and a muscle fiber, where communication occurs to initiate muscle contraction?

• A. Sarcomere
• B. Synapse
• C. Tendon
• D. Myofibril

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, 'Synapse.' The synapse is the specific term that refers to the point of contact between a motor neuron and a muscle fiber, where communication occurs to initiate muscle contraction. At the synapse, neurotransmitters are released by the motor neuron, triggering the muscle fiber to contract. Choice A, 'Sarcomere,' is incorrect as a sarcomere is the basic unit of muscle contraction, not the point of contact between a motor neuron and a muscle fiber. Choice C, 'Tendon,' is incorrect as tendons are fibrous connective tissues that connect muscle to bone, not involved in neuronal communication. Choice D, 'Myofibril,' is incorrect as a myofibril is a structure within muscle fibers where muscle contractions occur, not the specific point of contact for communication between a motor neuron and a muscle fiber.

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