Nursing Elites

1. What is the role of RNA interference in silencing genes?

• A. Increases protein production
• B. Promotes gene mutation
• C. Inhibits the expression of specific genes
• D. Repairs damaged DNA

Correct answer: C

Rationale: RNA interference (RNAi) is a biological process that involves the silencing of gene expression by inhibiting the translation of mRNA or by degrading mRNA molecules. This mechanism plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression and can be used to selectively silence specific genes. By interfering with the expression of specific genes, RNAi can downregulate protein production from those genes. Therefore, option C, 'Inhibits the expression of specific genes,' is the correct role of RNA interference in silencing genes. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because RNA interference does not increase protein production, promote gene mutation, or repair damaged DNA; its primary function is to inhibit gene expression by degrading or interfering with mRNA.

2. What is the stage of mitosis during which the nuclear envelope reforms?

• A. Prophase
• B. Metaphase
• C. Telophase
• D. Cytokinesis

Correct answer: C

Rationale: During telophase, the nuclear envelope reforms around the separated sister chromatids at opposite poles of the cell. This stage marks the reversal of the processes that occurred during prophase, where the nuclear envelope breaks down. Metaphase is characterized by the alignment of chromosomes along the metaphase plate in the cell's center. Cytokinesis is the final step of cell division involving cytoplasmic division to form two daughter cells, but it does not involve the reformation of the nuclear envelope. Therefore, choice C (Telophase) is the correct answer as it specifically involves the reformation of the nuclear envelope, distinguishing it from the other stages of mitosis.

3. Centrioles are structures involved in cell division. What is their specific role?

• A. Forming the nuclear envelope
• B. Replicating DNA
• C. Organizing microtubules during cell division
• D. Protein synthesis

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Centrioles are involved in organizing microtubules during cell division, specifically in forming the mitotic spindle. The mitotic spindle is crucial for the proper alignment and separation of chromosomes during cell division, ensuring the accurate distribution of genetic material to daughter cells. Choice A, forming the nuclear envelope, is incorrect as centrioles do not have a direct role in this process. Choice B, replicating DNA, is incorrect as centrioles are not involved in DNA replication. Choice D, protein synthesis, is incorrect as centrioles do not play a role in protein synthesis.

4. What function do genes serve in the relationship between parents and offspring?

• A. Genes enable hereditary information to be passed from parents to offspring.
• B. Genes prohibit hereditary information from being passed from parents to offspring.
• C. Genes enable environmental factors to affect parents and offspring.
• D. Genes serve no function in the relationship between parents and offspring.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Genes play a crucial role in passing hereditary information from parents to offspring, ensuring the transmission of genetic traits. This process forms the basis of inheritance and genetic continuity between generations. Choice B is incorrect as genes do not prohibit but rather facilitate the transmission of hereditary information. Choice C is incorrect because genes primarily transmit genetic information, while the influence of environmental factors is separate. Choice D is incorrect as genes are fundamental in genetic inheritance and the relationship between parents and offspring.

5. What is the process by which a large, unstable nucleus splits into two smaller nuclei, releasing neutrons and energy?

• A. Alpha decay
• B. Beta decay
• C. Gamma decay
• D. Nuclear fission

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Nuclear fission is the correct answer. It is the process in which a large, unstable nucleus splits into two smaller nuclei, releasing neutrons and energy. Alpha decay, beta decay, and gamma decay involve the emission of alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays, respectively. These decay processes do not result in the splitting of a nucleus like nuclear fission does.

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