foundations in microbiology test bank

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Innate immunity (natural resistance). Innate immunity refers to the non-specific defense mechanisms that act against a variety of infectious agents. This includes physical barriers like skin and mucous membranes, as well as cellular components like phagocytes and natural killer cells. Adaptive immunity (A) is specific and involves the production of antibodies and immune memory (B), which are not part of the initial non-specific response. Antibodies (C) are part of the adaptive immune response and are produced in response to specific pathogens, not part of the non-specific innate defense factors.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because Q-fever is not transmitted only after ticks bite; it can also be transmitted through inhalation of contaminated aerosols. Rickettsia mooseri and Rickettsia provazekii can cause spotted fevers, making choice A correct. Mediterranean fever is associated with a recurrent pattern of fever, not maculopapular rash, making choice C incorrect. "None of the above" is not correct in this case as choice B is incorrect.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The function of bacterial pili is to aid in adhesion. Pili are hair-like structures on the bacterial surface that help the bacteria attach to surfaces or other cells. This adhesion is crucial for colonization and infection. Pili do not provide motility, as that is typically done by flagella. Bacteria form spores for survival under harsh conditions, and protein synthesis is carried out by ribosomes, not pili. Thus, the correct answer is B, aiding in adhesion.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Campylobacter jejuni. This bacteria is commonly associated with foodborne illnesses due to its presence in undercooked poultry and unpasteurized milk. Campylobacteriosis is a leading cause of bacterial gastroenteritis. Streptococcus pneumoniae (A) causes pneumonia, not foodborne illnesses. Mycobacterium tuberculosis (C) causes tuberculosis, not foodborne illnesses. Haemophilus influenzae (D) can cause respiratory infections but is not commonly associated with foodborne illnesses.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Innate immunity (natural resistance). Innate immunity refers to the non-specific defense mechanisms that act against a variety of infectious agents. This includes physical barriers like skin and mucous membranes, as well as cellular components like phagocytes and natural killer cells. Adaptive immunity (A) is specific and involves the production of antibodies and immune memory (B), which are not part of the initial non-specific response. Antibodies (C) are part of the adaptive immune response and are produced in response to specific pathogens, not part of the non-specific innate defense factors.