Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following Mendelian laws describes how pairs of alleles within genes separate and recombine independently from other genes?

• A. law of segregation
• B. law of dominance
• C. law of independent assortment
• D. law of predictive traits

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The law of independent assortment describes how alleles of different genes segregate independently during gamete formation. This means that different gene pairs are passed on to offspring separately from one another, allowing for various combinations of traits. Gregor Mendel discovered this law, along with the law of segregation and the law of dominance, through his experiments with pea plants. The law of segregation (choice A) refers to how alleles of a gene separate during gamete formation, while the law of dominance (choice B) states that one allele can mask the presence of another in a heterozygous individual. The 'law of predictive traits' (choice D) is not a recognized Mendelian law and does not accurately describe the principles of genetic inheritance.

2. During swallowing, what is the role of the epiglottis, a small flap of cartilage located near the base of the tongue?

• A. Initiates the swallowing reflex
• B. Grinds food into smaller pieces
• C. Covers the trachea to prevent food aspiration
• D. Stores saliva for lubrication

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The epiglottis plays a crucial role during swallowing by covering the trachea to prevent food or liquid from entering the airway, which could lead to aspiration. By acting as a lid over the trachea, it ensures that food passes down the esophagus to the stomach, preventing it from entering the lungs. Choice A is incorrect as the swallowing reflex is a coordinated muscular action involving the tongue and throat muscles. Choice B is incorrect as grinding food into smaller pieces is primarily the function of the teeth and the initial stages of digestion. Choice D is incorrect as the storage of saliva for lubrication is not a function of the epiglottis, but rather involves salivary glands.

3. Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder affecting which neurotransmitter?

• A. Dopamine
• B. Acetylcholine
• C. Serotonin
• D. Glutamate

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Parkinson's disease is primarily caused by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in coordinating movement. The reduction of dopamine levels leads to the characteristic motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease, such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia. Choice B, acetylcholine, is involved in functions like muscle contraction and autonomic nervous system regulation but is not primarily affected in Parkinson's disease. Serotonin (Choice C) is involved in mood regulation and sleep, not the main neurotransmitter affected in Parkinson's disease. Glutamate (Choice D) is the major excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system and is not primarily implicated in Parkinson's disease pathophysiology.

4. Which process involves the body's natural defense against inhaled dust and allergens?

• A. Cellular respiration
• B. Gas exchange
• C. Ciliary action
• D. Bronchoconstriction

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Ciliary action refers to the process where tiny hair-like structures called cilia in the respiratory tract help to sweep away inhaled dust and allergens, preventing them from entering deeper into the lungs. This is a crucial part of the body's natural defense mechanism against respiratory irritants. Cellular respiration (A) is the process where cells use oxygen to produce energy, not a defense mechanism against inhaled particles. Gas exchange (B) involves the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the lungs, not specifically targeting inhaled dust and allergens. Bronchoconstriction (D) is the narrowing of the airways in response to irritants or allergens, which can lead to breathing difficulties, but it is not the primary defense mechanism against these particles.

5. What are the components of the female external genitalia and their functions?

• A. Ovaries: internal reproductive organs
• B. Vulva: external structures of the female genitalia
• C. Uterus: internal reproductive organ for fetal development
• D. Vagina: birth canal

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The corrected answer is B: 'Vulva: external structures of the female genitalia.' The vulva includes external structures such as the labia, clitoris, and vaginal opening. These structures play roles in sexual arousal and protection of the internal genital organs. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they are internal reproductive organs. The ovaries produce eggs, the uterus houses the developing fetus, and the vagina serves as the birth canal. Hence, they are not components of the female external genitalia.

Similar Questions