Nursing Elites

1. The term pleiotropy is best defined as which of the following?

• A. A situation in which one gene remains unexpressed
• B. One gene influencing multiple, seemingly unrelated phenotypic traits
• C. Two genes affected by a single allele
• D. A condition in which multiple genes are missing

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Pleiotropy is best defined as one gene influencing multiple, seemingly unrelated phenotypic traits. This phenomenon showcases the multifunctionality of genes, where a single gene can have effects on various aspects of an organism's phenotype. Choices A, C, and D do not accurately capture the concept of pleiotropy. Option A refers to gene expression, not pleiotropy. Option C describes genetic interactions but not in the context of pleiotropy. Option D talks about missing genes, which is unrelated to the definition of pleiotropy.

2. What cell structure is responsible for efficiently packaging DNA into a small volume to fit into the nucleus of a cell and protect the DNA structure and sequence?

• A. Golgi apparatus
• B. Chromatin
• C. Smooth endoplasmic reticulum
• D. Mitochondria

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Chromatin is the correct answer. Chromatin is responsible for packaging DNA into a more compact, dense structure to fit into the nucleus and protect the DNA. The Golgi apparatus is involved in processing and packaging proteins, not DNA. Smooth endoplasmic reticulum is involved in lipid metabolism and detoxification. Mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell responsible for energy production, not DNA packaging.

3. What must first occur before a cell can be divided to grow, develop, and reproduce organisms?

• A. RNA replication
• B. DNA replication
• C. Gene replication
• D. Chromosome replication

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: DNA replication. Before a cell can divide to grow, develop, and reproduce organisms, DNA replication must occur. This process ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical set of genetic information. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because while RNA, genes, and chromosomes are essential components of cell division, DNA replication is the specific process that must first occur to ensure accurate transmission of genetic material.

4. During which stage of mitosis do the chromosomes gather on either side of the separating cell?

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, Telophase. During telophase, the chromosomes gather at opposite poles of the cell as the nuclear envelopes start to form around them, indicating the end of cell division. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because during metaphase, the chromosomes align in the middle of the cell; in anaphase, the chromosomes separate and move towards opposite poles; and in prophase, the chromosomes condense and the nuclear envelope breaks down, respectively.

5. In meiosis, the chromosome number is reduced from:

• A. 46 to 23
• B. 46 to 33
• C. 28 to 14
• D. 24 to 12

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "46 to 23." In meiosis, the chromosome number is reduced by half to form gametes for sexual reproduction. In humans, where the diploid chromosome number is 46, meiosis results in haploid cells with 23 chromosomes. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not represent the correct reduction in chromosome number during meiosis.

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