Nursing Elites

1. What is the difference between polygenic inheritance and pleiotropy?

• A. Polygenic inheritance involves multiple genes influencing one trait, while pleiotropy involves one gene affecting multiple traits.
• B. Polygenic inheritance is found in simple Mendelian traits, while pleiotropy is found in complex traits.
• C. Polygenic inheritance is always quantitative, while pleiotropy can be qualitative or quantitative.
• D. Both involve multiple genes and multiple traits, but the specific mechanisms differ

Correct answer: A

Rationale: - Polygenic inheritance refers to the situation where a trait is influenced by multiple genes, each contributing a small effect to the phenotype. These traits often show continuous variation and are not easily categorized into discrete categories. - Pleiotropy, on the other hand, occurs when a single gene influences multiple, seemingly unrelated traits. This means that a mutation in one gene can lead to multiple phenotypic effects across different traits or characteristics. - Therefore, the key difference between polygenic inheritance and pleiotropy lies in the number of genes involved in influencing a trait (multiple genes in polygenic inheritance vs. one gene in pleiotropy) and the direction of influence (one trait affected by multiple genes in polygenic inheritance vs. multiple traits affected by one gene in pleiotropy).

2. What is the basic structural and functional unit of the nervous system?

• A. Axon
• B. Neuron
• C. Dendrite
• D. Synapse

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Neuron. Neurons are indeed the basic structural and functional units of the nervous system. Neurons are specialized cells that transmit signals throughout the nervous system, enabling communication and coordination of various functions within the body. While axons, dendrites, and synapses are all essential components of neurons and neural function, the neuron as a whole is considered the fundamental building block responsible for signal transmission. Choice A, Axon, is incorrect because an axon is a part of a neuron responsible for transmitting electrical signals away from the cell body. Choice C, Dendrite, is incorrect because dendrites are extensions of a neuron that receive signals from other neurons. Choice D, Synapse, is incorrect because a synapse is the junction between two neurons where signals are transmitted.

3. Which type of cartilage allows for smooth movement at joints and absorbs shock?

• A. Hyaline cartilage
• B. Fibrocartilage
• C. Elastic cartilage
• D. None of the above

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Fibrocartilage is the correct answer. It is found in areas requiring both support and resilience, such as the intervertebral discs and knee joints. Fibrocartilage contains collagen fibers for strength and proteoglycans for resilience, making it suitable for functions that involve smooth movement at joints and shock absorption. Hyaline cartilage, while providing structural support, is not primarily responsible for smooth movement and shock absorption. Elastic cartilage is more flexible and is found in locations like the ear and epiglottis, but it is not known for its shock-absorbing properties. Choosing 'None of the above' disregards the correct option of fibrocartilage, which is specifically designed for the functions described in the question.

4. Which of the following best describes the statement 'This flower is dead; someone must have forgotten to water it'?

• A. A classification
• B. An observation
• C. An inference
• D. A collection

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'C: An inference.' An inference is a conclusion reached based on evidence and reasoning. In this statement, the conclusion that someone must have forgotten to water the flower is drawn from the evidence that the flower is dead. Choice A, 'A classification,' is incorrect because the statement does not involve categorizing or grouping. Choice B, 'An observation,' is incorrect as the statement goes beyond just stating a fact and makes a conclusion. Choice D, 'A collection,' is unrelated to the process of drawing a conclusion based on the given evidence.

5. Which of the following is NOT a function of the liver?

• A. nutrient processing
• B. blood filtration and detoxification
• C. cholesterol and lipoprotein production
• D. insulin production and blood sugar regulation

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. The liver does not produce insulin; instead, insulin is produced by the pancreas. The liver plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels by storing and releasing glucose but does not directly produce insulin. Choices A, B, and C are functions of the liver. Nutrient processing, blood filtration, detoxification, cholesterol, and lipoprotein production are essential roles performed by the liver to maintain overall metabolic balance and health.

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