Nursing Elites

1. What is the smallest unit that can encode for a trait?

• A. A codon
• B. A gene
• C. A nucleotide
• D. A chromosome

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B - a gene. Genes are the smallest units that can encode for a trait as they contain the specific instructions for producing a particular characteristic or protein. While codons are sequences of nucleotides that code for specific amino acids in a protein, they are not the smallest unit that encodes for a trait. Nucleotides are the building blocks of DNA and RNA, and chromosomes are made up of DNA and proteins, containing many genes.

2. Which class of hormones is most likely to be released after a serious injury?

• A. Acetylcholine
• B. Oxytocin
• C. Luteinizing hormone
• D. Endorphins

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Endorphins are the class of hormones most likely to be released after a serious injury. Endorphins are the body's natural pain relievers and are produced in response to stress or pain, helping to alleviate discomfort and promote a sense of well-being. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter, not a hormone. Oxytocin is mainly involved in childbirth and lactation. Luteinizing hormone is involved in reproductive functions such as ovulation. Therefore, choices A, B, and C are incorrect in the context of a hormone release following a serious injury.

3. What is the primary function of the respiratory system?

• A. to create sound and speech
• B. to take oxygen into the body while removing carbon dioxide
• C. to transport nutrients to the cells and tissue of the body
• D. to act as a barrier between the body’s organs and outside influences

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary function of the respiratory system is to take oxygen into the body through inhalation and remove carbon dioxide through exhalation. Oxygen is essential for cellular respiration and energy production, while carbon dioxide is a waste product that needs to be expelled from the body. This process is vital for the functioning of the body's cells and tissues. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because sound and speech production, nutrient transport, and acting as a barrier against outside influences are not the primary functions of the respiratory system. While the respiratory system is involved in speech production to some extent, its primary role is in gas exchange for respiration.

4. What is the role of RNA interference in silencing genes?

• A. Increases protein production
• B. Promotes gene mutation
• C. Inhibits the expression of specific genes
• D. Repairs damaged DNA

Correct answer: C

Rationale: RNA interference (RNAi) is a biological process that involves the silencing of gene expression by inhibiting the translation of mRNA or by degrading mRNA molecules. This mechanism plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression and can be used to selectively silence specific genes. By interfering with the expression of specific genes, RNAi can downregulate protein production from those genes. Therefore, option C, 'Inhibits the expression of specific genes,' is the correct role of RNA interference in silencing genes. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because RNA interference does not increase protein production, promote gene mutation, or repair damaged DNA; its primary function is to inhibit gene expression by degrading or interfering with mRNA.

5. What is the term for the small air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange (oxygen and carbon dioxide) takes place?

• A. Bronchi
• B. Alveoli
• C. Trachea
• D. Bronchioles

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Alveoli. The alveoli are the small air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs. Oxygen from the air we breathe passes into the bloodstream through the alveoli, while carbon dioxide from the bloodstream passes out of the body through the alveoli. Choice A, Bronchi, are the main airways in the lungs and not the site of gas exchange. Choice C, Trachea, refers to the windpipe, which is a different structure than the alveoli. Choice D, Bronchioles, are smaller airways branching off from the bronchi and are not where gas exchange primarily occurs.

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