Nursing Elites

1. What is the significance of studying pedigrees in human genetics?

• A. Predicting the exact outcome of genetic crosses in humans.
• B. Tracing the inheritance of complex traits with multiple contributing genes.
• C. Identifying carriers of dominant genetic disorders.
• D. Determining the risk of acquiring a specific mutation de novo.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Pedigrees are diagrams that show the relationships within a family and can be used to track the inheritance patterns of specific traits or diseases. While pedigrees can provide information on the inheritance of single gene disorders (such as identifying carriers of dominant genetic disorders, as mentioned in option C), their primary significance lies in studying complex traits with multiple contributing genes. These traits do not follow simple Mendelian inheritance patterns and are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. By analyzing pedigrees, researchers can identify patterns of inheritance for complex traits, such as polygenic diseases or traits influenced by gene-environment interactions. Therefore, option B is the most appropriate choice as it captures the main significance of studying pedigrees in human genetics.

2. In endocrine regulation, the feedback loop is a critical concept. In a negative feedback loop, high levels of a hormone can result in:

• A. Further stimulating the release of the same hormone
• B. Inhibiting the release of the hormone or its production
• C. Having no effect on the hormone's regulation
• D. Increasing the need for another hormone entirely

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a negative feedback loop, high levels of a hormone will inhibit the release of the hormone or its production. This mechanism is crucial for maintaining homeostasis by preventing excessive levels of hormones in the body. When a hormone reaches a certain concentration, it triggers the body to decrease its production or release, thereby ensuring a balance within the system. Choice A is incorrect because a negative feedback loop aims to counteract high hormone levels, not further stimulate them. Choice C is incorrect as high hormone levels do have an effect by triggering the feedback loop. Choice D is incorrect as the negative feedback loop operates within the same hormone system rather than increasing the need for an entirely different hormone.

3. How does AIDS impair the immune system?

• A. AIDS targets and destroys Helper T-Cells, preventing the activation of Cytotoxic T-Cells or B-Cells.
• B. IgE stimulates mast cells to release excessive histamine.
• C. IgE inhibits mast cells from releasing sufficient histamine.
• D. Helper T-Cells deceive the body into attacking itself.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: AIDS targets and destroys Helper T-Cells, which play a crucial role in coordinating the immune response. By affecting these cells, AIDS prevents the activation of other important immune cells like Cytotoxic T-Cells or B-Cells. This disruption in the immune system's communication and response mechanisms leads to immune system failure and increased vulnerability to infections. Choices B and C are incorrect because they refer to the role of IgE in allergic reactions, which is not directly related to how AIDS impairs the immune system. Choice D is also incorrect as Helper T-Cells being destroyed in AIDS is not about deceiving the body into attacking itself, but rather the direct impact on immune system function.

4. Which of the following is most different from the others?

• A. Thyroid gland
• B. Stomach
• C. Intestines
• D. Pancreas

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, 'Stomach.' The stomach is an organ of the digestive system responsible for breaking down food through mechanical and chemical digestion. In contrast, the thyroid, intestines, and pancreas are glands. The thyroid gland regulates metabolism through hormone secretion, the intestines aid in digestion and nutrient absorption, and the pancreas secretes digestive enzymes and hormones. Therefore, the stomach is functionally different from the other options as it is an organ involved in digestion, while the others are glands with specific secretory functions.

5. Bile, a digestive juice, is produced by which organ?

• A. Stomach
• B. Liver
• C. Pancreas
• D. Small intestine

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Bile is a digestive juice produced by the liver. It is stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine to aid in the digestion and absorption of fats. The stomach (Choice A) produces gastric juices, not bile. The pancreas (Choice C) produces digestive enzymes and bicarbonate but not bile. The small intestine (Choice D) is where bile is released to aid in digestion but is not the organ that produces bile.

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