Microbiology An Evolving Science Test Bank

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Anthrax. Anthrax is caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, which can form spores that are highly resistant and can survive in the soil for long periods. These spores can remain dormant until they come into contact with a susceptible host, leading to infection. Diphtheria, viral hepatitis, and pertussis are caused by different types of pathogens (bacteria and viruses) that do not have the same ability to persist in soil as anthrax spores. Therefore, the causative agents of these diseases are less likely to exist in the soil for extended periods compared to anthrax spores.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A (Escherichia coli, Gardnerella vaginalis, and Staphylococcus aureus) because they are known to commonly cause nonsexually transmitted infections of the reproductive system. Escherichia coli can cause urinary tract infections that can ascend to the reproductive system. Gardnerella vaginalis is associated with bacterial vaginosis, a common infection of the vagina. Staphylococcus aureus can cause infections in the reproductive system through various means. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect: B: Streptococcus faecalis, Klebsiella oxytoca, and Serratia marcescens are not commonly associated with reproductive system infections. C: Clostridium tetani and Bacillus cereus are not typically involved in reproductive system infections. D: Neisseria gonorrhoeae causes sexually transmitted infections, Helicobacter pylori causes gastrointestinal issues, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa is more

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: E + S = P. This notation represents the interaction between an enzyme (E) and a substrate (S) resulting in a product (P). Enzymes facilitate chemical reactions by binding to substrates and converting them into products. Choice A is incorrect because it does not include the enzyme in the reaction. Choice B is incorrect as it involves two substrates binding to the enzyme, not a substrate converting to a product. Choice D is incorrect as it shows two substrates reacting to form a product without involvement of an enzyme. Thus, choice C accurately represents the process of enzymatic reactions involving enzymes, substrates, and products.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C (7.2-7.4) because most pathogenic bacteria and viruses thrive in a neutral pH environment close to 7.0. This pH range is optimal for their growth and survival. Choice A (5.0-5.5) is too acidic for most pathogens. Choice B (8.0-9.6) is too alkaline, which is not conducive for their survival. Choice D (4.2-4.4) is also too acidic and would likely inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria and viruses. Thus, a pH range of 7.2-7.4 provides the most suitable conditions for their proliferation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Lassa virus. The rationale is as follows: 1. Lassa virus is a member of the Arenaviridae family, known for causing Lassa fever. 2. Arenaviridae family includes viruses with a segmented genome and are transmitted through rodents. 3. Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (Choice B) belongs to the Bunyaviridae family, not Arenaviridae. 4. Rabies virus (Choice C) belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family, not Arenaviridae. 5. Epstein-Barr virus (Choice D) belongs to the Herpesviridae family, not Arenaviridae. In summary, Lassa virus is the correct choice as it aligns with the characteristics of the Arenaviridae family, while the other choices belong to different virus families.