Nursing Elites

1. In ecology, what defines a closed system?

• A. Exchanges energy but not matter
• B. Exchanges both energy and matter
• C. Exchanges neither energy nor matter
• D. Recycles nutrients efficiently

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In ecology, a closed system is one that does not exchange matter with its surroundings but can exchange energy. This means that while energy can enter or leave the system, the amount of matter within the system remains constant. Option A correctly defines a closed system in ecology. Choices B and C are incorrect as a closed system does not exchange matter or energy. Option D is unrelated to the concept of a closed system in ecology.

2. Not all cells in the pancreas secrete insulin because of the hormone somatostatin, which inhibits the release of insulin by all cells. What type of intercellular chemical signal does this illustrate?

• A. Autocrine
• B. Neuromodulator
• C. Paracrine
• D. Pheromone

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Paracrine. Somatostatin acts in a paracrine manner by inhibiting the release of insulin from nearby cells within the pancreas. Paracrine signaling involves the secretion of signals that act on neighboring cells, as seen in this scenario where somatostatin affects nearby pancreatic cells without entering the bloodstream or affecting distant cells. Autocrine signaling involves cells responding to substances they themselves release, which is not the case here. Neuromodulators are chemicals that modulate the activity of neurons, not directly related to this scenario. Pheromones are chemicals released into the environment to communicate with individuals of the same species, not relevant to the signaling within the pancreas.

3. During swallowing, what is the role of the epiglottis, a small flap of cartilage located near the base of the tongue?

• A. Initiates the swallowing reflex
• B. Grinds food into smaller pieces
• C. Covers the trachea to prevent food aspiration
• D. Stores saliva for lubrication

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The epiglottis plays a crucial role during swallowing by covering the trachea to prevent food or liquid from entering the airway, which could lead to aspiration. By acting as a lid over the trachea, it ensures that food passes down the esophagus to the stomach, preventing it from entering the lungs. Choice A is incorrect as the swallowing reflex is a coordinated muscular action involving the tongue and throat muscles. Choice B is incorrect as grinding food into smaller pieces is primarily the function of the teeth and the initial stages of digestion. Choice D is incorrect as the storage of saliva for lubrication is not a function of the epiglottis, but rather involves salivary glands.

4. In the suburban neighborhood of Northwoods, there has been a large population of deer, and residents have complained about them eating flowers and garden plants. What would be a logical explanation for the large increase in the deer population over the last two seasons?

• A. There has been an increase in the quantity of food sources in surrounding areas.
• B. The population of natural predators in Northwoods has decreased.
• C. Deer have migrated from surrounding areas.
• D. There has been a recent increase in hunting licenses sold.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because a decrease in natural predators can lead to an increase in the deer population as there are fewer predators to control their numbers. This explanation aligns with the situation described in the question, where the deer population has increased, causing issues for residents. Choice A is incorrect because an increase in food sources would not directly explain the increase in the deer population. Choice C is incorrect as it introduces a new factor of migration which is not mentioned in the question. Choice D is incorrect as an increase in hunting licenses sold would likely have the opposite effect on the deer population.

5. Which organ system is most responsible for maintaining control of body temperature?

• A. The skeletal system.
• B. The circulatory system.
• C. The immune system.
• D. The muscular system.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The circulatory system is the correct answer as it plays a crucial role in maintaining control of body temperature through a process called thermoregulation. Blood vessels near the skin surface dilate to dissipate heat when the body is too warm and constrict to reduce heat loss when it's too cold. Additionally, the circulatory system helps distribute heat produced from metabolic processes throughout the body to keep a stable internal temperature. The skeletal system provides structural support, the immune system defends against pathogens, and the muscular system is responsible for movement, but they are not primarily involved in regulating body temperature.

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