Microbiology An Introduction 12th Edition Test Bank

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The Ascoli precipitation test is specifically used to detect anthrax agent antigens. The test involves mixing a patient's serum with a solution containing anthrax antigens, leading to precipitation if the antigens are present. Therefore, a positive reaction in this test indicates the presence of anthrax agent antigens. The other choices (B: Brucellosis agent, C: Anaerobic infection toxin, D: Plague agent) are incorrect because the Ascoli precipitation test is not designed to detect these specific agents or toxins.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because all three bacteria (Salmonella enterica, Escherichia coli, Vibrio cholerae) are commonly associated with foodborne illnesses. Salmonella causes gastroenteritis, E. coli can lead to severe food poisoning, and Vibrio cholerae causes cholera. Therefore, choosing "All of the above" encompasses the most common bacteria linked to foodborne illnesses. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not cover the full range of bacteria typically involved in foodborne illnesses.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: intravenous administration. This route bypasses the first-pass metabolism, allowing the drug to directly enter the bloodstream for immediate distribution. In contrast, on the skin (A) and sublingual (D) routes have slower absorption rates due to barriers like skin layers or mucous membranes. Intramuscular (C) absorption is slower than intravenous due to slower perfusion rates in muscle tissues. Overall, intravenous administration provides the fastest and most direct route for drug absorption, making it the most rapid method.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Respiratory tract. The respiratory tract is likely the most frequently used portal of entry for pathogens because it is constantly exposed to the external environment and has a large surface area lined with mucous membranes that can trap and facilitate the entry of pathogens. Additionally, the respiratory tract serves as a direct pathway for pathogens to reach the bloodstream and other organs. Skin (choice A) is a physical barrier that can prevent pathogen entry, while the gastrointestinal tract (choice B) has acidic pH and enzymes that can kill many pathogens. Conjunctiva (choice D) is a less common portal of entry compared to the respiratory tract due to its smaller surface area and protective mechanisms such as tears.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: protozoans. Protozoans are eukaryotic organisms that possess both a macronucleus, responsible for general cell functions, and a micronucleus, involved in genetic processes like reproduction. Algae (choice A) typically have a single nucleus, fungi (choice B) lack distinct macronucleus and micronucleus structures, and slime molds (choice D) do not have the same nucleus organization as protozoans. Thus, protozoans are the only group among the choices that exhibit the specific characteristics of having both a macronucleus and a micronucleus.