Nursing Elites

1. Which technology allows scientists to directly edit the human genome?

• A. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
• B. Gel electrophoresis
• C. DNA sequencing
• D. CRISPR-Cas9

Correct answer: D

Rationale: CRISPR-Cas9 is the correct answer. A) Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is used for amplifying specific DNA segments, not directly editing the human genome. B) Gel electrophoresis is for separating DNA fragments by size, not for genome editing. C) DNA sequencing determines DNA nucleotide order but does not directly edit the genome. D) CRISPR-Cas9 technology enables precise modifications in the DNA of organisms, including humans. It guides the Cas9 enzyme to specific genome locations for targeted edits, revolutionizing genetic research and offering various applications in gene editing and therapy. Unlike the other techniques mentioned, CRISPR-Cas9 is specifically designed to make changes in the genetic code itself, making it a powerful tool for genetic manipulation.

2. Which element is used in fire extinguishers to smother flames by displacing oxygen?

• A. Nitrogen
• B. Carbon dioxide
• C. Helium
• D. Argon

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Carbon dioxide is the correct answer. It is used in fire extinguishers because it displaces oxygen, which is necessary for combustion. When carbon dioxide is released onto a fire, it reduces the oxygen concentration around the flames, effectively smothering the fire. This disruption of oxygen availability interrupts the chemical reaction that sustains the fire. Nitrogen (Choice A), helium (Choice C), and argon (Choice D) are not typically used in fire extinguishers for smothering flames by displacing oxygen. Nitrogen is an inert gas that can displace oxygen but is not as effective as carbon dioxide in fire suppression.

3. Which of the following nucleic acids carries the genetic information copied from DNA to the ribosomes?

• A. DNA
• B. mRNA
• C. rRNA
• D. tRNA

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: mRNA. Messenger RNA (mRNA) is responsible for carrying the genetic information copied from DNA to the ribosomes for protein synthesis. mRNA serves as a temporary copy of the genetic instructions stored in DNA and acts as a messenger between the nucleus and ribosomes in the cytoplasm where protein synthesis occurs. While rRNA (ribosomal RNA) and tRNA (transfer RNA) play essential roles in the process of translation at the ribosomes, mRNA is the nucleic acid directly involved in carrying the genetic code for protein synthesis. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect as DNA is the original genetic material, rRNA is a component of the ribosomes, and tRNA carries amino acids during protein synthesis, respectively.

4. What term describes a series of muscle contractions that transports food down the digestive tract in a wave-like fashion?

• A. digestion
• B. deglutition
• C. defecation
• D. peristalsis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Peristalsis is the correct term for the series of muscle contractions that move food down the digestive tract in a wave-like manner. This process helps propel food through the esophagus, stomach, and intestines, facilitating digestion and nutrient absorption. Digestion (Choice A) refers to the breakdown of food into smaller components, deglutition (Choice B) is the act of swallowing, and defecation (Choice C) is the elimination of waste from the body. Therefore, peristalsis is the most appropriate term to describe the described muscle contractions in the digestive system.

5. Which cells myelinate neurons in the PNS?

• A. Oligodendrocytes
• B. Astrocytes
• C. Schwann cells
• D. Microglia

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Schwann cells are the glial cells responsible for myelinating neurons in the peripheral nervous system (PNS). They form the myelin sheath around axons, which helps in the conduction of electrical impulses. Oligodendrocytes, on the other hand, myelinate neurons in the central nervous system (CNS). Astrocytes primarily provide support for neuronal function by regulating the chemical environment around neurons and maintaining the blood-brain barrier. Microglia are part of the immune response in the CNS, where they act as the resident macrophages, playing a role in immune surveillance and response to injury or disease. Therefore, the correct answer is Schwann cells (Choice C) as they specifically myelinate neurons in the PNS, differentiating them from the other cell types mentioned in the choices.

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