Nursing Elites

1. What is a mutation?

• A. A change in the DNA sequence
• B. A type of protein
• C. A normal part of the DNA replication process
• D. A harmless variation in DNA

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A mutation is defined as a change in the DNA sequence, which can occur due to various factors such as errors during DNA replication, exposure to mutagens (e.g., chemicals, radiation), or spontaneous changes. These alterations can lead to modifications in the genetic information carried by an organism, resulting in effects that can range from harmless variations to causing genetic disorders or diseases. Mutations play a crucial role in genetic diversity and evolution. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately define what a mutation is. Option B is incorrect because mutations are not a type of protein but rather changes in DNA. Option C is incorrect because while mutations can occur during DNA replication, they are not considered a 'normal' part of the process as they can lead to genetic variations. Option D is incorrect because mutations can have a wide range of effects and are not always harmless variations.

2. Which of the following is NOT a common symptom of pregnancy?

• A. Fatigue
• B. Nausea
• C. Increased urination
• D. Loss of appetite

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'Loss of appetite.' Loss of appetite is not a common symptom of pregnancy. In fact, many pregnant individuals experience an increase in appetite due to hormonal changes and increased energy needs during pregnancy. Fatigue, nausea, and increased urination are more commonly reported symptoms during pregnancy. Fatigue is often experienced due to hormonal changes and the body's increased metabolic demands during pregnancy. Nausea, commonly known as morning sickness, is a well-known symptom experienced by many pregnant individuals. Increased urination is a common symptom in pregnancy due to hormonal changes leading to increased blood flow to the kidneys and increased fluid processing by the body.

3. Which type of immune cell does the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) target and destroy?

• A. Neutrophils
• B. Macrophages
• C. Helper T cells
• D. Memory B cells

Correct answer: C

Rationale: HIV targets and destroys Helper T cells, which are vital for coordinating the immune response against infections. The destruction of Helper T cells weakens the immune system, leading to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Neutrophils (Choice A) are primarily involved in acute inflammatory responses and fighting bacterial infections. Macrophages (Choice B) play a role in phagocytosis and antigen presentation but are not the primary target of HIV. Memory B cells (Choice D) are responsible for mounting a quicker and more robust antibody response upon re-exposure to a pathogen, but they are not the main target of HIV infection.

4. How are genetic markers utilized in paternity testing?

• A. They identify unique sequences in the father's DNA present in the child.
• B. They analyze the presence or absence of specific alleles for certain genes.
• C. They compare the child's blood type to the parents' blood types.
• D. They measure the child's physical resemblance to the father.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Genetic markers are specific DNA sequences that can vary among individuals. In paternity testing, genetic markers are used to compare the DNA of the child with that of the alleged father. By analyzing the presence or absence of specific alleles (different forms of a gene) at these genetic markers, scientists can determine the likelihood of paternity. This method is more accurate and reliable than comparing blood types (choice C) or physical resemblance (choice D) as genetic markers provide a direct comparison of DNA sequences between individuals. Therefore, option B is the correct choice as it accurately describes the use of genetic markers in paternity testing.

5. When a biologist describes the physical and visible expression of a genetic trait, which of the following is being referred to?

• A. Phenotype
• B. Allele
• C. Gamete
• D. Genotype

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Phenotype. Phenotype specifically refers to the observable physical characteristics resulting from the interaction of an individual's genetic makeup (genotype) with environmental influences. It represents the outward expression of an organism's genetic makeup. Allele, represented by choice B, refers to different forms of a gene and is not the visible expression of a trait. Gamete, represented by choice C, is a reproductive cell and not directly related to the physical expression of traits. Genotype, represented by choice D, refers to the genetic makeup of an organism and is distinct from the observable physical characteristics denoted by phenotype.

Similar Questions