Nursing Elites

1. Which molecules are soluble in nonpolar solvents but are hydrophobic?

• A. Carbohydrates
• B. Lipids
• C. Proteins
• D. Nucleic acids

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Lipids are hydrophobic molecules that are soluble in nonpolar solvents like oils but insoluble in water. They consist of fats, oils, waxes, and steroids and play essential roles in energy storage, insulation, and cell membrane structure. Carbohydrates, proteins, and nucleic acids are not typically soluble in nonpolar solvents and do not exhibit the same hydrophobic characteristics as lipids. Carbohydrates are usually hydrophilic and soluble in water, proteins have both hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions but are not generally soluble in nonpolar solvents, and nucleic acids are polar molecules that are not known for their solubility in nonpolar solvents.

2. What is the difference between active and passive immunity?

• A. Active immunity is short-lived, while passive immunity is long-lasting.
• B. Active immunity involves the body's own immune response, while passive immunity provides immediate protection through antibodies from another source.
• C. Active immunity only protects against bacterial infections, while passive immunity works against both bacteria and viruses.
• D. Passive immunity requires repeated vaccinations, while active immunity is a one-time process.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Active immunity involves the body's own immune response, where the individual's immune system produces antibodies in response to exposure to a pathogen or vaccine. This type of immunity is long-lasting because the immune system 'remembers' the pathogen and can mount a rapid response upon re-exposure. In contrast, passive immunity provides immediate protection through the transfer of pre-formed antibodies from another source, such as through maternal antibodies crossing the placenta or receiving antibodies through an injection. Passive immunity is short-lived because the transferred antibodies eventually degrade and are not produced by the recipient's immune system. Choice A is incorrect because active immunity is generally long-lasting, as it involves the production of antibodies by the individual's immune system. Choice C is incorrect as both active and passive immunity can work against various pathogens, not limited to bacteria or viruses. Choice D is incorrect as passive immunity does not require repeated vaccinations but provides temporary protection through the transfer of antibodies from an external source.

3. Which hormone, produced by the pancreas, is released in response to low blood sugar levels and stimulates the release of glucose into the bloodstream?

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Glucagon is the hormone produced by the pancreas that is released in response to low blood sugar levels. It acts to stimulate the release of glucose into the bloodstream by promoting the breakdown of glycogen in the liver. Insulin, conversely, is released in response to high blood sugar levels and promotes the uptake of glucose by cells. Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands that regulates metabolism and the immune response. Thyroxine is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that regulates metabolism but is not involved in responding to low blood sugar levels.

4. Which term refers to a molecule of DNA and structural protein?

• A. Lysosome
• B. Centrosome
• C. Chromosome
• D. Genome

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Chromosome. A chromosome is a structure composed of DNA and proteins that carries genetic information. It is the condensed form of DNA associated with structural proteins, not just a molecule of DNA or protein. Lysosomes are membrane-bound organelles containing digestive enzymes, not DNA and protein. Centrosomes are involved in cell division, not related to DNA and protein together. A genome refers to an organism's complete set of DNA, not specifically a molecule containing both DNA and structural protein.

5. Which term describes the ability of a muscle to return to its original length and shape after being stretched or contracted?

• A. Contractility
• B. Elasticity
• C. Extensibility
• D. Excitability

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Elasticity is the correct term that describes the ability of a muscle to return to its original length and shape after being stretched or contracted. Contractility refers to the ability of a muscle to contract or shorten. Extensibility is the ability of a muscle to be stretched. Excitability is the ability of a muscle to receive and respond to stimuli. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Elasticity' as it specifically relates to the muscle's ability to regain its original form.

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