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. What type of vessel carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to other tissues of the body?

• A. Veins
• B. Intestines
• C. Bronchioles
• D. Arteries

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Arteries. Arteries are blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood away from the heart to supply oxygen to the tissues and organs throughout the body. Veins, choice A, carry oxygen-poor blood back to the heart, not oxygen-rich blood. Intestines, choice B, are part of the digestive system and do not play a role in carrying blood. Bronchioles, choice C, are small air passages in the lungs responsible for carrying air, not blood.

3. What is the function of the lymphatic system?

• A. To transport oxygen
• B. To filter waste from the blood
• C. To produce red blood cells
• D. To regulate body temperature

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To filter waste from the blood.' The lymphatic system is responsible for draining excess fluid from tissues, absorbing fats from the digestive system, and filtering out harmful substances and waste products from the blood. It also plays a crucial role in the body's immune defense by transporting white blood cells and antibodies to fight off infections. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because transporting oxygen, producing red blood cells, and regulating body temperature are functions performed by other systems in the body, such as the respiratory system, bone marrow, and thermoregulatory mechanisms, respectively.

4. What is the stage of mitosis during which the nuclear envelope reforms?

• A. Prophase
• B. Metaphase
• C. Telophase
• D. Cytokinesis

Correct answer: C

Rationale: During telophase, the nuclear envelope reforms around the separated sister chromatids at opposite poles of the cell. This stage marks the reversal of the processes that occurred during prophase, where the nuclear envelope breaks down. Metaphase is characterized by the alignment of chromosomes along the metaphase plate in the cell's center. Cytokinesis is the final step of cell division involving cytoplasmic division to form two daughter cells, but it does not involve the reformation of the nuclear envelope. Therefore, choice C (Telophase) is the correct answer as it specifically involves the reformation of the nuclear envelope, distinguishing it from the other stages of mitosis.

5. What is the main factor limiting population growth in K-strategists?

• A. Predation
• B. Availability of resources
• C. Competition
• D. Disease

Correct answer: B

Rationale: K-strategists are species with a low reproductive rate that invest more resources in raising fewer offspring. These species typically live in stable environments with limited resources. The main factor limiting population growth in K-strategists is the availability of resources such as food, shelter, and space. When resources are scarce, K-strategists may struggle to find enough to support their population size, leading to reduced reproductive success and population growth. While predation, competition, and disease can also impact population growth, the primary limiting factor for K-strategists is the availability of resources.

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