Nursing Elites

1. The neutral theory of molecular evolution proposes that:

• A. Most mutations in DNA are selectively neutral and do not affect an organism's fitness.
• B. All mutations are beneficial and contribute to the adaptation of a population.
• C. The rate of evolution is primarily driven by strong directional selection pressures.
• D. Genetic drift plays a negligible role in shaping genetic variation within populations.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: A) The neutral theory of molecular evolution, proposed by Motoo Kimura in the 1960s, suggests that the majority of mutations that occur in DNA are selectively neutral, meaning they do not have a significant impact on an organism's fitness. These neutral mutations are not subject to natural selection and are allowed to accumulate in populations over time. This theory helps explain the high levels of genetic variation observed within populations. B) Option B is incorrect because not all mutations are beneficial. Mutations can be neutral, harmful, or beneficial, and the neutral theory specifically focuses on the idea that many mutations are neutral in their effects. C) Option C is incorrect because the neutral theory suggests that evolution is not primarily driven by strong directional selection pressures. Instead, it emphasizes the role of genetic drift and the accumulation of neutral mutations in shaping genetic variation. D) Option D is incorrect because

2. Which hormone is responsible for regulating sleep-wake cycles and is influenced by light exposure?

• A. Melatonin
• B. Cortisol
• C. Estrogen
• D. Glucagon

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Melatonin. Melatonin is the hormone responsible for regulating sleep-wake cycles, also known as the circadian rhythm. Its production is influenced by light exposure, with levels increasing in the evening in response to darkness, signaling the body that it is time to sleep. Choice B, cortisol, is a stress hormone and does not directly regulate sleep-wake cycles. Choice C, estrogen, is a sex hormone and is not primarily involved in regulating sleep. Choice D, glucagon, is a hormone that increases blood glucose levels and is not related to sleep-wake cycles.

3. What is the function of a cell wall?

• A. To provide structural support for the cell
• B. To transport substances in and out of the cell
• C. To synthesize proteins and lipids
• D. To store genetic material

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The cell wall is a rigid layer that surrounds the cell membrane in plant cells, fungi, and some bacteria. Its main function is to provide structural support and protection for the cell, helping maintain the cell's shape and preventing it from bursting or collapsing. The cell wall also allows for the passage of water, ions, and other molecules in and out of the cell. Options B, C, and D are incorrect because those functions are typically carried out by other cellular structures. Option B is performed by the cell membrane, option C by ribosomes, and option D by the nucleus, which stores genetic material.

4. Which type of cell division is responsible for growth and repair?

• A. Meiosis
• B. Mitosis
• C. Binary fission
• D. Osmosis

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Mitosis is the correct type of cell division responsible for growth and repair. During mitosis, a cell divides to produce two identical daughter cells, contributing to growth and tissue repair in multicellular organisms. Meiosis, on the other hand, is involved in the formation of gametes (sperm and egg cells) for sexual reproduction. Binary fission is a form of asexual reproduction in single-celled organisms, and osmosis is the movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they are not directly related to growth and repair in multicellular organisms.

5. Which of the following is NOT a tissue layer found in skeletal bone?

• A. periosteum
• B. bone marrow
• C. enamel
• D. cancellous bone

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Enamel is a hard, outer layer that covers the crown of a tooth and is not a tissue layer found in skeletal bone. The other options, periosteum, bone marrow, and cancellous bone, are all tissue layers or components found in skeletal bone. Periosteum is the connective tissue layer covering the bone surface, bone marrow is found within the bone cavities, and cancellous bone is a spongy, porous bone tissue.

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