mastering microbiology test bank

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: The description matches that of Streptococcus pneumoniae, which appears as gram-positive diplococci with slightly pointed opposite ends. Staphylococcus aureus, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Neisseria meningitidis do not match the specific characteristics described in the question. Staphylococcus aureus appears in grape-like clusters, while Neisseria species are typically seen as diplococci but lack the pointed shape described. Therefore, the correct answer is A: Staphylococcus aureus.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Bacilli are rod-shaped bacteria, some of which are endospore forming. Cocci are spherical, spirals are spiral-shaped, and vibrios are curved rod-shaped bacteria. Bacilli specifically refer to rod-shaped bacteria, making it the correct answer in this context.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Isoniazid and rifampicin. These drugs are considered first-line treatment for tuberculosis due to their high efficacy and low toxicity. Isoniazid targets the cell wall of the tuberculosis bacteria, while rifampicin inhibits RNA synthesis. They are recommended by WHO as the first choice for treating tuberculosis. Choice B (Penicillin and erythromycin) is incorrect because these antibiotics are not effective against tuberculosis bacteria. Choice C (Trimethoprim and third generation cephalosporins) is incorrect because they are not considered first-line drugs for tuberculosis treatment. Choice D (All the listed above can be used depending on their resistance profile) is incorrect because only isoniazid and rifampicin are universally recognized as first-line drugs for tuberculosis regardless of resistance profile.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Fimbriae. Fimbriae are hair-like appendages found on the surface of bacteria that enable attachment to host cells. This attachment is crucial for establishing infection. Flagella (A) are used for movement, not attachment. Capsules (C) provide protection and help evade the host immune system, but do not directly facilitate attachment. Endospores (D) are dormant structures for survival, not for attachment to host cells. Fimbriae specifically aid in adherence to host cells, making them the correct choice in this context.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Tryptic soy agar is a general-purpose medium suitable for cultivating a wide range of microorganisms. It provides essential nutrients for growth without inhibiting specific types of bacteria. Blood agar (B), Mannitol salt agar (C), and MacConkey agar (D) are selective or differential media designed to promote the growth of specific types of bacteria or differentiate between different bacterial species. Therefore, they are not considered general-purpose mediums.