foundations in microbiology test bank

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Capsule. A capsule is a mucous structure tightly bound to the bacterial cell wall with distinct outer boundaries. This structure helps bacteria evade the host immune system, resist desiccation, and adhere to surfaces. In contrast, spores are resistant structures formed by certain bacteria for survival, filaments are long chains of bacterial cells, and ribosomes are cellular organelles responsible for protein synthesis. Therefore, based on the characteristics described in the question, the most appropriate choice is A: Capsule.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D (All of the above) because all three bacteria (Clostridium botulinum, Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica) are known to cause foodborne infections. Clostridium botulinum can lead to botulism, E. coli can cause various gastrointestinal illnesses, and Salmonella enterica is a common cause of food poisoning. Each bacterium has specific mechanisms that result in foodborne illnesses. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because each bacterium mentioned is associated with causing foodborne infections, making them collectively the correct answer.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for Choice C (Streptococcus pyogenes) being the correct answer: 1. Erysipelas is a skin infection characterized by well-defined red, inflamed skin areas. 2. Streptococcus pyogenes is a common causative agent of erysipelas. 3. This bacterium produces enzymes that break down skin proteins, leading to the characteristic symptoms of erysipelas. 4. Streptococcus pyogenes is known for causing skin infections, including erysipelas. Summary of why the other choices are incorrect: A. Pseudomonas aeruginosa: Typically causes opportunistic infections, but not commonly associated with erysipelas. B. Staphylococcus aureus: Can cause skin infections, but not typically associated with erysipelas. D. Candida albicans: Fungal infection, not a bacterium, and not known to cause erysipelas.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for choice A being correct: 1. Penicillin allergy involves IgE antibodies binding to penicillin. 2. This triggers mast cell degranulation, releasing histamine. 3. Histamine causes allergic symptoms like rash, swelling. 4. This immune response characterizes Type I hypersensitivity reactions. Summary of other choices: B: Type II reactions involve antibody-mediated cell destruction, not seen in penicillin allergy. C: Type III reactions involve immune complex deposition, not typical in penicillin allergy. D: Type IV reactions are delayed hypersensitivity reactions, not immediate like penicillin allergy.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Dysenteric amoeba. 1. Dysenteric amoeba causes amoebiasis, which presents with symptoms like weakness, intestinal pain, and gastrointestinal disorders. 2. The presence of four-nucleus cysts in the feces indicates an infection with Entamoeba histolytica, the causative agent of amoebiasis. 3. Multiple-nucleus cysts are characteristic of Entamoeba histolytica, distinguishing it from other protozoa. 4. Lamblia (choice A), Balantidium (choice C), and Trichomonas (choice D) are not associated with four-nucleus cysts or the mentioned symptoms, making them incorrect choices.