Microbiology An Evolving Science Test Bank

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Nystatin. Nystatin is specifically used to treat intestinal candidiasis because it targets and eliminates the Candida species responsible for the infection. It is not absorbed systemically, acting only locally in the gastrointestinal tract. Griseofulvin (B) is mainly used to treat fungal skin infections, not intestinal candidiasis. Undecyne (C) is an antifungal agent used for skin infections, not for intestinal candidiasis. Amphotericin B (D) is a potent antifungal agent used for systemic fungal infections, not specifically for intestinal candidiasis.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Burri-Gins. This staining method specifically targets the detection of capsules in bacteria. It involves staining the capsules with crystal violet and the background with safranin. This staining technique helps visualize the capsules as a distinct halo around the bacteria. Summary: - Choice B (Ziehl-Neelsen) is used for acid-fast staining to detect Mycobacterium species. - Choice C (Neisser) is used for staining Neisseria species. - Choice D (Gram) is a common staining method used to differentiate bacteria based on cell wall composition (Gram-positive and Gram-negative), but it does not specifically target capsules.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Direct transfer of DNA between two bacterial cells. In bacterial conjugation, genetic material is transferred directly from one bacterial cell to another through a conjugative pilus. This process involves physical contact between the cells, followed by the transfer of plasmid DNA or chromosomal DNA. This mechanism allows for the exchange of genetic information between bacteria, leading to genetic diversity. Explanation of why other choices are incorrect: A: DNA transfer via bacteriophage - Bacteriophage is a virus that infects bacteria and transfers its genetic material, but this is not the mechanism involved in bacterial conjugation. B: Uptake of naked DNA from the environment - This process is known as transformation, where bacteria take up free DNA from the environment, but it is not specific to bacterial conjugation. D: Binary fission - Binary fission is a form of asexual reproduction in bacteria where a single cell divides into two identical cells, and it is not related to the process

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: lipopolysaccharides. Endotoxins are part of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, consisting of lipid A, core polysaccharides, and O antigen. Lipopolysaccharides are known to induce strong immune responses and can cause septic shock. Proteins (choice A) are components of exotoxins, not endotoxins. Teichoic acid (choice C) is found in Gram-positive bacteria, not Gram-negative bacteria. Peptidoglycan (choice D) is a major component of bacterial cell walls but is not considered an endotoxin.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This bacterium can be transmitted via droplets in the air through coughing or sneezing. It is spread through respiratory droplets containing the bacteria. Streptococcus pneumoniae (A) is transmitted through direct contact with respiratory secretions, not through droplets in the air. Escherichia coli (B) is commonly transmitted through contaminated food or water, not through the air. Clostridium botulinum (C) is typically transmitted through contaminated food, not via respiratory droplets. Therefore, the correct choice is D as it is the only bacterium listed that can be transmitted via droplets in the air.