Nursing Elites

1. How many neurons typically comprise a sensory pathway?

• A. 1
• B. 2
• C. 3
• D. 4

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A sensory pathway generally consists of three neurons: a first-order neuron, a second-order neuron, and a third-order neuron. The first-order neuron carries sensory information from the periphery to the spinal cord or brainstem. The second-order neuron then transmits this information to the thalamus or cerebellum. Finally, the third-order neuron projects the sensory input to the cerebral cortex for processing and perception. Therefore, the correct answer is 3 (C). Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not align with the typical structure of a sensory pathway involving three neurons.

2. Which of the following accurately describes saltatory conduction?

• A. It is faster than normal nerve conduction
• B. It occurs from one node of Ranvier to the next
• C. It only occurs in myelinated neurons
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'All of the above.' Saltatory conduction is faster than normal nerve conduction, occurs from one node of Ranvier to the next, and is exclusive to myelinated neurons. This form of conduction allows for the rapid transmission of nerve impulses by the action potential jumping between the nodes of Ranvier in myelinated neurons, enhancing the efficiency of signal propagation along the axon. Choice A is correct as saltatory conduction is indeed faster than normal conduction. Choice B is accurate as it describes the mechanism of conduction 'jumping' from one node of Ranvier to the next. Choice C is correct because saltatory conduction occurs specifically in myelinated neurons where the myelin sheath insulates the axon except at the nodes of Ranvier, facilitating faster transmission of nerve impulses.

3. What do lacteals absorb in the small intestine?

• A. Carbohydrates
• B. Lipids
• C. Proteins
• D. Nonpolar nutrients

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Lacteals are lymphatic capillaries in the small intestine that specialize in absorbing dietary lipids. These lipids are then transported into the lymphatic system for further processing and distribution throughout the body. Choice A (Carbohydrates) is incorrect because carbohydrates are primarily digested and absorbed in the small intestine by enzymes and transported to the liver. Choice C (Proteins) is incorrect because proteins are broken down into amino acids and absorbed in the small intestine, mainly by the villi. Choice D (Nonpolar nutrients) is incorrect as it is a vague term and not specific to what lacteals absorb, which are primarily lipids.

4. What is the importance of RNA splicing?

• A. Removes introns from the mRNA molecule
• B. Adds the poly-A tail to the mRNA molecule
• C. Activates the mRNA molecule for translation
• D. Modifies the structure of the protein

Correct answer: A

Rationale: RNA splicing is a crucial process in gene expression where non-coding regions called introns are removed from the pre-mRNA molecule, and the remaining coding regions called exons are joined together to form the mature mRNA molecule. This process ensures that only the protein-coding sequences are retained in the mRNA for translation, allowing for the production of functional proteins. Therefore, option A is the correct answer as it accurately describes the importance of RNA splicing in generating mature mRNA molecules for protein synthesis. B) Adding the poly-A tail to the mRNA molecule is a post-transcriptional modification that occurs after RNA splicing and is not directly related to the process of removing introns. C) Activating the mRNA molecule for translation is typically achieved through the addition of a 5' cap and the poly-A tail, rather than through RNA splicing. D) Modifying the structure of the protein is not directly related to the process of RNA splicing, which primarily focuses on mRNA maturation by removing non-coding introns.

5. What is the principle behind the phenomenon of refraction, where waves bend when entering a new medium?

• A. Change in wavelength
• B. Change in frequency
• C. Change in wave speed
• D. None of the above

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Refraction occurs due to a change in wave speed when waves enter a new medium. As waves travel from one medium to another, their speed changes, causing them to bend. This change in speed is responsible for the bending of waves during refraction. It is not the change in wavelength or frequency that causes refraction, but rather the change in speed as waves move through different mediums. Therefore, the correct answer is the change in wave speed (Choice C). Choices A and B are incorrect as refraction is not primarily influenced by changes in wavelength or frequency, but by changes in wave speed. Choice D is also incorrect as there is a specific principle, which is the change in wave speed, behind the phenomenon of refraction.

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