Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following is NOT a mechanism that can directly cause evolution by natural selection?

• A. Mutations in genes
• B. Differential survival and reproduction based on traits
• C. Inheritance of acquired characteristics (like strong muscles from working out)
• D. Competition for resources in an environment

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A) Mutations in genes can introduce new genetic variations into a population, which can be acted upon by natural selection. B) Differential survival and reproduction based on traits is a key component of natural selection, as individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and pass on their genes to the next generation. C) Inheritance of acquired characteristics, also known as Lamarckism, is not a mechanism of evolution by natural selection. Traits acquired during an individual's lifetime (such as strong muscles from working out) are not passed on to offspring. D) Competition for resources in an environment can drive natural selection by favoring individuals with traits that help them better compete for limited resources. Therefore, the correct answer is C) Inheritance of acquired characteristics (like strong muscles from working out), as it is not a mechanism that can directly cause evolution by natural selection.

2. Which part of the brain is responsible for memory and learning?

• A. Cerebellum
• B. Cerebrum
• C. Medulla oblongata
• D. Brainstem

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B - Cerebrum. The cerebrum, not the cerebellum as in choice A, is the largest part of the brain and is responsible for memory, learning, and higher cognitive functions. It processes sensory information, enables reasoning, and decision-making, all crucial for memory formation and learning processes. Choices C and D, Medulla oblongata and Brainstem respectively, do not primarily play roles in memory and learning processes. The Medulla oblongata is mainly involved in regulating vital autonomic functions like breathing and heart rate, while the Brainstem serves as a pathway for neural communication and houses essential control centers for basic life functions, not memory and learning.

3. What is meant by the term 'goiter'?

• A. Overproduction of cortisol from the adrenal glands
• B. Excessive growth of the thyroid gland
• C. Underproduction of parathyroid hormone (PTH)
• D. Deficiency of growth hormone from the pituitary gland

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A goiter is a condition characterized by the abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland. This enlargement can be caused by various factors such as iodine deficiency, thyroid nodules, inflammation, or other thyroid disorders. It is not associated with the overproduction of cortisol (Choice A), underproduction of parathyroid hormone (Choice C), or deficiency of growth hormone (Choice D). Therefore, the correct answer is B, excessive growth of the thyroid gland.

4. Which nitrogenous bases pair with each other in DNA?

• A. A-G and T-C
• B. A-T and C-G
• C. A-T and T-T
• D. C-C and G-G

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In DNA, nitrogenous bases pair with each other in a specific manner known as complementary base pairing. Adenine (A) always pairs with Thymine (T), and Cytosine (C) always pairs with Guanine (G). This pairing is essential for maintaining the structure and function of DNA. Option B is the correct answer as it correctly identifies the nitrogenous bases that pair with each other in DNA. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not follow the established base pairing rules in DNA. A-T and C-G are the complementary base pairs in DNA, ensuring the stability and replication fidelity of the genetic material.

5. Which part of the brain is responsible for controlling involuntary functions like breathing and heart rate?

• A. Cerebrum
• B. Medulla oblongata
• C. Cerebellum
• D. Thalamus

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The medulla oblongata is located at the base of the brainstem and is responsible for controlling vital involuntary functions such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. The cerebrum, although the largest part of the brain, is primarily responsible for higher brain functions like thinking and voluntary muscle movements. The cerebellum is involved in coordination, balance, and muscle control. The thalamus acts as a relay station for sensory information but is not directly responsible for regulating involuntary functions like breathing and heart rate. Therefore, the correct answer is the medulla oblongata.

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