Nursing Elites

1. In an analysis of the amino acid composition of foods, the amino acid occurring in the smallest amount is called:

• A. indispensable.
• B. dispensable.
• C. complementary.
• D. limiting.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'limiting.' In the analysis of the amino acid composition of foods, the amino acid that occurs in the smallest amount is referred to as the limiting amino acid. This term is used because when one essential amino acid is deficient, it limits the synthesis of proteins, making it crucial in determining protein quality. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. 'Indispensable' and 'dispensable' refer to the essentiality of amino acids, and 'complementary' does not describe the concept of the amino acid occurring in the smallest amount.

2. What is the process by which proteins are synthesized from the available amino acids?

• A. Gluconeogenesis.
• B. Deamination.
• C. Protein synthesis.
• D. Transamination.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Protein synthesis. This process involves the formation of proteins from amino acids to support various body functions. Gluconeogenesis (choice A) is the synthesis of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, not protein synthesis. Deamination (choice B) is the removal of an amino group from an amino acid, not the synthesis of proteins. Transamination (choice D) is the transfer of an amino group from one molecule to another, not the direct synthesis of proteins.

3. What substance activates pepsinogen to pepsin?

• A. Bile
• B. Gastrin
• C. Secretin
• D. Hydrochloric acid

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Hydrochloric acid. Hydrochloric acid in the stomach plays a crucial role in converting pepsinogen into its active form, pepsin, which is necessary for digesting proteins. Bile (Choice A) is involved in the emulsification of fats, not in the activation of pepsinogen. Gastrin (Choice B) is a hormone that stimulates the secretion of gastric acid but does not directly activate pepsinogen. Secretin (Choice C) is a hormone that regulates the pH of the duodenum but is not responsible for the activation of pepsinogen.

4. At what pH does the digestion of protein by pepsin in the stomach require?

• A. 1.8 and 3.5.
• B. 4.8 and 7.0.
• C. 6.8 and 8.5.
• D. 7.8 and 10.0.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 1.8 and 3.5. Pepsin, an enzyme involved in protein digestion, functions optimally in an acidic environment, specifically between pH 1.8 and 3.5. This low pH is necessary for pepsin to break down proteins effectively. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because pepsin requires a highly acidic environment, ruling out the pH ranges listed in those options.

5. Which of the following is an example of a disaccharide?

• A. Glucose.
• B. Fructose.
• C. Galactose.
• D. Maltose.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Maltose. A disaccharide is formed when two monosaccharides are joined together. Glucose, fructose, and galactose are all monosaccharides, not disaccharides. Therefore, they are not examples of disaccharides.

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