Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following is NOT a function of the liver?

• A. nutrient processing
• B. blood filtration and detoxification
• C. cholesterol and lipoprotein production
• D. insulin production and blood sugar regulation

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. The liver does not produce insulin; instead, insulin is produced by the pancreas. The liver plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels by storing and releasing glucose but does not directly produce insulin. Choices A, B, and C are functions of the liver. Nutrient processing, blood filtration, detoxification, cholesterol, and lipoprotein production are essential roles performed by the liver to maintain overall metabolic balance and health.

2. Which of the following is NOT a recognized mode of natural selection?

• A. Directional selection (favoring one extreme trait value on a spectrum)
• B. Disruptive selection (favoring both extreme trait values on a spectrum)
• C. Stabilizing selection (favoring the average trait value on a spectrum)
• D. Sexual selection (selection based on mate choice that influences reproductive success)

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A) Directional selection is a recognized mode of natural selection where one extreme trait value on a spectrum is favored over others, leading to a shift in the average trait value over time. B) Disruptive selection is a recognized mode of natural selection where both extreme trait values on a spectrum are favored over the average trait value, potentially causing the population to split into distinct groups. C) Stabilizing selection is a recognized mode of natural selection favoring the average trait value on a spectrum over extreme values, resulting in reduced genetic diversity. D) Sexual selection differs from traditional natural selection modes as it involves mate choice and competition for mates, not direct selection pressure on traits affecting survival and reproduction in the environment. Sexual selection can drive the evolution of traits enhancing an individual's attractiveness for mating purposes.

3. The innate immune system provides a non-specific first line of defense. What are some physical barriers that contribute to the innate immune system?

• A. Antibodies
• B. Phagocytes
• C. Skin and mucous membranes
• D. Memory B cells

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Physical barriers such as the skin and mucous membranes are crucial components of the innate immune system's first line of defense. These barriers act as physical obstacles that prevent pathogens from entering the body. Antibodies (option A) are produced by the adaptive immune system in response to specific pathogens and do not serve as physical barriers. Phagocytes (option B) are cells that engulf and digest pathogens, playing a role in the innate immune response but not as physical barriers. Memory B cells (option D) are part of the adaptive immune system and aid in mounting a faster and more effective immune response upon subsequent exposure to a specific pathogen, but they are not physical barriers against initial pathogen entry.

4. What is the most common cause of aseptic meningitis?

• A. Bacteria
• B. Viruses
• C. Fungi
• D. Parasites

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Aseptic meningitis is typically caused by viral infections, such as enteroviruses (e.g., coxsackievirus, echovirus), herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster virus, and others. These viruses can infect the meninges, leading to inflammation and symptoms of meningitis without the presence of bacteria. While bacterial meningitis is a serious and life-threatening condition, aseptic meningitis caused by viruses is usually less severe and has a better prognosis. Fungi and parasites are less common causes of meningitis compared to bacteria and viruses.

5. Which part of the brain is responsible for controlling involuntary functions like breathing and heart rate?

• A. Cerebrum
• B. Medulla oblongata
• C. Cerebellum
• D. Thalamus

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The medulla oblongata is located at the base of the brainstem and is responsible for controlling vital involuntary functions such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. The cerebrum, although the largest part of the brain, is primarily responsible for higher brain functions like thinking and voluntary muscle movements. The cerebellum is involved in coordination, balance, and muscle control. The thalamus acts as a relay station for sensory information but is not directly responsible for regulating involuntary functions like breathing and heart rate. Therefore, the correct answer is the medulla oblongata.

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