Nursing Elites

1. What is the shape of the DNA molecule?

• A. Linear
• B. Circular
• C. Double helix
• D. Straight chain

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Double helix. The shape of the DNA molecule is a double helix, a structure first described by James Watson and Francis Crick in 1953. This shape consists of two strands twisted around each other in a spiral. The double helix structure allows DNA to be compactly stored within the cell nucleus and provides stability to the molecule. Options (A) Linear, (B) Circular, and (D) Straight chain are incorrect as they do not accurately represent the shape of the DNA molecule. DNA is not linear but rather forms a twisted double helix; it is not circular like a ring but has a spiral structure, and it is not a straight chain but a twisted ladder-like structure.

2. The process by which an organism adapts to its environment through inherited traits is known as

• A. Acclimatization
• B. Behavioral ecology
• C. Natural selection
• D. Niche partitioning

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A) Acclimatization refers to the short-term physiological adjustments an individual organism makes in response to changes in its environment. This process is reversible and does not involve inherited traits. B) Behavioral ecology is the study of how behavior contributes to an organism's survival and reproduction in its environment. While behavior can be influenced by natural selection, it is not the process by which an organism adapts through inherited traits. C) Natural selection is the process by which organisms with advantageous traits for their environment are more likely to survive, reproduce, and pass on those traits to their offspring. Over time, this leads to the adaptation of populations to their environments. D) Niche partitioning is the process by which species divide resources to reduce competition within an ecosystem. While this can influence the evolution of species, it is not the process by which an organism adapts through inherited traits.

3. Which vitamin requires intrinsic factor for proper absorption?

• A. Vitamin A
• B. Vitamin C
• C. Vitamin D
• D. Vitamin B12

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Vitamin B12 requires intrinsic factor, a glycoprotein secreted by the parietal cells of the stomach, for proper absorption in the small intestine. Intrinsic factor binds to vitamin B12 and facilitates its absorption in the ileum. Deficiency in intrinsic factor can lead to pernicious anemia, a condition characterized by a lack of vitamin B12 absorption. Options A, B, and C are incorrect. Vitamin A is absorbed in the small intestine with the help of bile salts; Vitamin C is absorbed in the small intestine via active transport; Vitamin D is absorbed in the small intestine through a process involving bile salts and micelles. It is essential for students to understand this relationship as it highlights the importance of intrinsic factor in the absorption of specific vitamins and the consequences of its deficiency.

4. Which type of nutrients require minimal digestion before absorption?

• A. Carbohydrates
• B. Proteins
• C. Fats
• D. Vitamins

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A) Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates require digestion by enzymes in the mouth, stomach, and small intestine before they can be broken down into simple sugars for absorption. B) Proteins: Proteins need to be broken down into amino acids by stomach acid and digestive enzymes in the stomach and small intestine before they can be absorbed. C) Fats: Fats require bile from the gallbladder to emulsify them into smaller droplets for enzymes to break them down into fatty acids and glycerol for absorption. D) Vitamins: Vitamins are organic compounds that are already in a form that can be readily absorbed by the body without extensive digestion. They are absorbed directly into the bloodstream from the small intestine and do not require significant breakdown before absorption.

5. Which hormone is produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress?

• A. Insulin
• B. Adrenaline
• C. Glucagon
• D. Thyroxine

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, is produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress. It helps prepare the body for the 'fight or flight' response by increasing heart rate, dilating airways, and mobilizing energy sources. Choice A, Insulin, is incorrect as it is produced by the pancreas and regulates blood sugar levels. Choice C, Glucagon, is also produced by the pancreas and functions to increase blood glucose levels. Choice D, Thyroxine, is produced by the thyroid gland and regulates metabolism, not specifically in response to stress.

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