Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following types of stem cells can differentiate into any cell type, including forming an entire organism?

• A. Totipotent stem cells
• B. Multipotent stem cells
• C. Pluripotent stem cells
• D. Hematopoietic stem cells

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Totipotent stem cells possess the unique ability to differentiate into any cell type, including forming an entire organism. These cells have the highest potency level and can give rise to both embryonic and extraembryonic cell types, allowing them to develop into a complete organism. Multipotent stem cells (Choice B) can differentiate into a limited range of cell types within a specific tissue or organ. Pluripotent stem cells (Choice C) can differentiate into any cell type in the body except for those needed to support and develop a fetus. Hematopoietic stem cells (Choice D) are a type of multipotent stem cell that can differentiate into various blood cell types.

2. What is the responsibility of the somatic nervous system?

• A. Breathing
• B. Thought
• C. Movement
• D. Fear

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The somatic nervous system is responsible for controlling voluntary movements of skeletal muscles. This system communicates sensory information and controls voluntary movements, such as walking or reaching for objects. Breathing is primarily regulated by the autonomic nervous system, which functions involuntarily. Thought processes involve complex interactions between various regions of the brain and are not directly controlled by the somatic nervous system. Fear is an emotional response that involves the limbic system of the brain and the autonomic nervous system, not the somatic nervous system.

3. Which part of the brain is responsible for regulating body temperature, hunger, and thirst, and is considered a key player in the endocrine system?

• A. Amygdala
• B. Hippocampus
• C. Hypothalamus
• D. Thalamus

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The hypothalamus is responsible for regulating body temperature, hunger, and thirst, making it a vital component in maintaining homeostasis. It also plays a crucial role in the endocrine system by controlling the release of hormones from the pituitary gland. The amygdala primarily processes emotions, the hippocampus is associated with memory formation, and the thalamus acts as a relay station for sensory information. Therefore, the hypothalamus is the correct answer as it directly regulates the physiological processes mentioned in the question.

4. Which term describes the resistance of a substance to being hammered into different shapes?

• A. Viscosity
• B. Ductility
• C. Malleability
• D. Conductivity

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Malleability is the property that allows a substance to be hammered or rolled into thin sheets without breaking. It is the opposite of brittleness. Ductility refers to the ability of a material to be drawn into thin wires, not hammered into shapes. Viscosity is the measure of a fluid's resistance to flow, indicating how thick or sticky it is, not related to shaping by hammering. Conductivity refers to the ability of a material to conduct electricity or heat, not resistance to being hammered into different shapes.

5. What is the basic structural and functional unit of the nervous system?

• A. Axon
• B. Neuron
• C. Dendrite
• D. Synapse

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Neuron. Neurons are indeed the basic structural and functional units of the nervous system. Neurons are specialized cells that transmit signals throughout the nervous system, enabling communication and coordination of various functions within the body. While axons, dendrites, and synapses are all essential components of neurons and neural function, the neuron as a whole is considered the fundamental building block responsible for signal transmission. Choice A, Axon, is incorrect because an axon is a part of a neuron responsible for transmitting electrical signals away from the cell body. Choice C, Dendrite, is incorrect because dendrites are extensions of a neuron that receive signals from other neurons. Choice D, Synapse, is incorrect because a synapse is the junction between two neurons where signals are transmitted.

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