Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following accurately describes saltatory conduction?

• A. It is faster than normal nerve conduction
• B. It occurs from one node of Ranvier to the next
• C. It only occurs in myelinated neurons
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'All of the above.' Saltatory conduction is faster than normal nerve conduction, occurs from one node of Ranvier to the next, and is exclusive to myelinated neurons. This form of conduction allows for the rapid transmission of nerve impulses by the action potential jumping between the nodes of Ranvier in myelinated neurons, enhancing the efficiency of signal propagation along the axon. Choice A is correct as saltatory conduction is indeed faster than normal conduction. Choice B is accurate as it describes the mechanism of conduction 'jumping' from one node of Ranvier to the next. Choice C is correct because saltatory conduction occurs specifically in myelinated neurons where the myelin sheath insulates the axon except at the nodes of Ranvier, facilitating faster transmission of nerve impulses.

2. If a scientist finds that the results of her experiment seem to contradict her hypothesis, what is the best course of action?

• A. Publish the results anyway, acknowledging that her hypothesis seems to have been incorrect.
• B. Keep trying the experiment until the results match her hypothesis.
• C. Publish the results, retroactively changing the hypothesis.
• D. None of the above; this cannot occur. The experimental results cannot contradict the hypothesis, by definition.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The best course of action is to publish the results anyway, acknowledging that her hypothesis seems to have been incorrect. Science relies on accurate reporting and transparency, even if the results do not align with the original hypothesis. This allows for further discussion, analysis, and potentially new hypotheses to be developed based on the findings. It is essential in scientific research to report both positive and negative results to contribute to the body of knowledge and advance understanding in the field. Choice B is incorrect because persisting with the same experiment to force results to align with the hypothesis goes against scientific integrity and may lead to biased conclusions. Choice C is incorrect as changing the hypothesis after obtaining results is not scientifically sound and undermines the credibility of the research. Choice D is incorrect because science embraces the possibility of experimental results contradicting hypotheses, as this provides valuable insights for refining theories and expanding scientific knowledge.

3. Differentiate between genotype and phenotype in the context of gene expression.

• A. Genotype refers to the physical manifestation of a trait, while phenotype represents its underlying genetic makeup.
• B. Genotype encompasses the spectrum of possible traits encoded by an organism's genes, while phenotype signifies the specific trait observed.
• C. Genotype denotes the presence of dominant alleles, while phenotype reflects the influence of recessive alleles.
• D. There is no distinction; both terms are interchangeable.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: - Genotype refers to the genetic makeup of an organism, including all the genes and alleles it possesses. - Phenotype, on the other hand, refers to the observable physical characteristics or traits of an organism, which result from the interaction between its genotype and the environment. - While genotype represents the genetic potential or range of traits that an organism can express, phenotype reflects the actual expression of specific traits. - Therefore, option B correctly captures the distinction between genotype and phenotype in the context of gene expression.

4. What is the most powerful stimulus for breathing in a healthy person?

• A. Acidosis
• B. Alkalosis
• C. Increase in CO2
• D. Loss of O2

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is an increase in CO2. In a healthy individual, the primary drive to breathe is regulated by the levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood. When CO2 levels increase, it triggers the body to increase the rate and depth of breathing to eliminate excess CO2 and restore the balance. This response is more powerful than other stimuli such as acidosis, alkalosis, or loss of oxygen. While acidosis and alkalosis can affect breathing, an increase in CO2 has a more direct and immediate impact. Loss of oxygen (hypoxia) is a potent stimulus, but the body's response to increased CO2 levels is generally more pronounced and immediate in healthy individuals.

5. Which of the following processes describes the conversion of glucose to pyruvic acid during glycolysis?

• A. Glycogenesis
• B. Glycolysis
• C. Glycogenolysis
• D. Gluconeogenesis

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Glycolysis. Glycolysis is the metabolic pathway where glucose is broken down to produce pyruvic acid and ATP, generating energy in the form of ATP. Glycogenesis (choice A) is the process of glycogen synthesis, Glycogenolysis (choice C) is the breakdown of glycogen to release glucose, and Gluconeogenesis (choice D) is the synthesis of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources. Therefore, during glycolysis, glucose is converted into pyruvic acid, which is a crucial step in energy production.

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