Nursing Elites

1. The neutral theory of molecular evolution proposes that:

• A. Most mutations in DNA are selectively neutral and do not affect an organism's fitness.
• B. All mutations are beneficial and contribute to the adaptation of a population.
• C. The rate of evolution is primarily driven by strong directional selection pressures.
• D. Genetic drift plays a negligible role in shaping genetic variation within populations.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: A) The neutral theory of molecular evolution, proposed by Motoo Kimura in the 1960s, suggests that the majority of mutations that occur in DNA are selectively neutral, meaning they do not have a significant impact on an organism's fitness. These neutral mutations are not subject to natural selection and are allowed to accumulate in populations over time. This theory helps explain the high levels of genetic variation observed within populations. B) Option B is incorrect because not all mutations are beneficial. Mutations can be neutral, harmful, or beneficial, and the neutral theory specifically focuses on the idea that many mutations are neutral in their effects. C) Option C is incorrect because the neutral theory suggests that evolution is not primarily driven by strong directional selection pressures. Instead, it emphasizes the role of genetic drift and the accumulation of neutral mutations in shaping genetic variation. D) Option D is incorrect because

2. Which concentration unit depends on pressure?

• A. ppm
• B. ppb
• C. molarity
• D. molarity, ppb, and ppm

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'C: molarity.' Molarity is the concentration unit that depends on pressure. In molarity, the concentration of a solution is expressed as the number of moles of solute per liter of solution. This means that changes in pressure can affect the volume of the solution and consequently the concentration. Choices A and B, ppm (parts per million) and ppb (parts per billion), respectively, are independent of pressure variations as they are based on mass ratios. Therefore, molarity is the only concentration unit listed that is directly influenced by changes in pressure.

3. What potential consequences can chromosomal nondisjunction have on offspring?

• A. Down syndrome, caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21.
• B. Turner syndrome, characterized by the absence of one X chromosome in females.
• C. Klinefelter syndrome, featuring one or more extra X chromosomes in males.
• D. All of the above.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: - Chromosomal nondisjunction is the failure of homologous chromosomes or sister chromatids to separate properly during cell division, leading to an abnormal number of chromosomes in the resulting cells. - Down syndrome is caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21, resulting from nondisjunction during meiosis. Individuals with Down syndrome have three copies of chromosome 21 instead of the usual two. - Turner syndrome is characterized by the absence of one X chromosome in females, leading to a variety of physical and developmental features. - Klinefelter syndrome features one or more extra X chromosomes in males, typically resulting in infertility and other physical characteristics. Therefore, chromosomal nondisjunction can lead to various genetic disorders such as Down syndrome, Turner syndrome, and Klinefelter syndrome, making option D the correct answer.

4. What is the primary function of lymph nodes, small, bean-shaped structures found along lymphatic vessels?

• A. To store excess lymph fluid
• B. To produce red blood cells
• C. To filter lymph and fight infection
• D. To transport lymph to the heart

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Lymph nodes primarily function to filter lymph and fight infection. They contain immune cells that help to remove pathogens and foreign particles from the lymph fluid as it passes through the nodes. This process helps to activate the immune response and defend the body against infections. Choice A is incorrect as lymph nodes do not store excess lymph fluid; they filter lymph. Choice B is incorrect as the production of red blood cells primarily occurs in the bone marrow, not in lymph nodes. Choice D is incorrect as lymph nodes do not transport lymph to the heart; they filter and process lymph to remove impurities and activate the immune response.

5. Which mineral is essential for muscle function and nerve transmission?

• A. Calcium
• B. Iron
• C. Sodium
• D. Potassium

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Potassium is the correct answer as it is essential for muscle function and nerve transmission. Potassium plays a crucial role in regulating muscle contractions, including the heart's beating, and is vital for transmitting electrical signals within the nervous system. Calcium (Choice A) is important for muscle contraction but is not the primary mineral for nerve transmission. Iron (Choice B) is important for oxygen transport in the blood. Sodium (Choice C) is important for fluid balance but is not primarily responsible for muscle function and nerve transmission.

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