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. The adrenal cortex produces a group of steroid hormones called corticosteroids. What is a MAJOR function of corticosteroids?

• A. Regulate insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels
• B. Control blood pressure and electrolyte balance
• C. Stimulate the immune system and inflammatory response
• D. Promote growth and development during puberty

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Corticosteroids, produced by the adrenal cortex, primarily function to control blood pressure and electrolyte balance. One of the key corticosteroids, aldosterone, plays a crucial role in regulating sodium and potassium levels in the body. This regulation is essential for maintaining blood pressure and electrolyte balance. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because corticosteroids do not primarily regulate insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels, stimulate the immune system and inflammatory response, or promote growth and development during puberty. While corticosteroids can have effects on insulin sensitivity, immune response, and growth, their major role is in maintaining blood pressure and electrolyte balance.

3. Antigen-antibody binding is the principle behind:

• A. Vaccination
• B. Disinfection
• C. Sterilization
• D. Antibiotic resistance

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Antigen-antibody binding is the principle behind vaccination. When a vaccine containing antigens (weakened or killed pathogens) is introduced into the body, the immune system produces antibodies that bind to these antigens. This binding triggers an immune response, leading to the production of memory cells that provide immunity against future infections by the same pathogen. Vaccination helps the body develop immunity without causing the disease itself, thereby protecting individuals from infectious diseases. Disinfection and sterilization involve different processes to eliminate or reduce pathogens on surfaces or objects. Antibiotic resistance is a phenomenon where bacteria evolve to resist the effects of antibiotics and is not directly related to antigen-antibody binding.

4. What does the term 'solute' refer to in a solution?

• A. The substance present in the largest amount
• B. The substance that dissolves in the solvent
• C. The liquid portion of the solution
• D. The temperature at which the solution freezes

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In a solution, the term 'solute' specifically refers to the substance that dissolves in the solvent to create a solution. The solute is typically present in a smaller amount compared to the solvent. Option B correctly identifies the solute as the substance that undergoes dissolution in the solvent, making it the correct choice. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Choice A is actually describing the solvent, which is the substance present in the largest amount in a solution. Choice C refers to the solvent, not the solute. Choice D is unrelated to the term 'solute' as it describes the colligative property of freezing point depression, not the solute itself.

5. Which of the following terms means toward the front of the body?

• A. Superior
• B. Anterior
• C. Inferior
• D. Posterior

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Anterior. The term 'anterior' specifically refers to the front of the body. In anatomical terms, anterior is the opposite of posterior, which means toward the back of the body. Superior and inferior, choices A and C, respectively, refer to top and bottom directions, not front and back. Therefore, 'Anterior' is the most appropriate term for describing a position toward the front of the body.

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