medical microbiology test bank

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because antigenic shift is a major change in the influenza virus where genetic material from different influenza viruses mix to create a new subtype. This is a large-scale change that results in a novel virus with a different antigenic composition. Option A and B are incorrect because antigenic shift does involve the exchange of genetic information between animal and human influenza A viruses, and it does occur when animal or avian influenza viruses of type A directly pass into the human population. Option C is incorrect because antigenic shift is not related to the recirculation of a previously circulating influenza strain.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: HIV. HIV is transmitted through direct contact with certain body fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and breast milk. This direct contact route of transmission makes it different from the other choices. Salmonellosis is typically transmitted through contaminated food or water (not direct contact). Tularemia is usually transmitted through insect bites or contact with infected animals. Rubella is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets. Therefore, HIV is the only option with a contact route of transmission.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because transcription is the process in which messenger RNA transcripts are produced from DNA. During transcription, a specific segment of DNA is transcribed into mRNA by RNA polymerase. Choice A is incorrect because translation, not transcription, involves converting mRNA into protein. Choice B is incorrect as it describes DNA replication, not transcription. Choice D is incorrect because it refers to translation, where polypeptides are synthesized from mRNA. Therefore, choice C is the correct answer as it accurately describes the process of transcription.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Correct Answer: B - Plasmids are circular DNA molecules Rationale: 1. Plasmids are extrachromosomal DNA molecules found in bacteria. 2. Plasmids are typically circular in structure, not linear. 3. Circular plasmids are easily replicated and transferred between bacteria. 4. Plasmids can carry genes for antibiotic resistance, making option C incorrect. 5. Not all bacteria have plasmids, making option D incorrect. 6. While plasmids can provide benefits, they are not essential for bacterial survival, making option A incorrect.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Wasserman test, IFT. The patient's symptoms of diffuse alopecia and Pinkus' sign are suggestive of secondary syphilis. The Wasserman test and Immunofluorescence Test (IFT) are used to detect antibodies against Treponema pallidum, the bacterium causing syphilis. This would confirm or rule out syphilis as the underlying cause of the patient's symptoms. Choice B (T.pallidum Immobilization Test) is similar to the Wasserman test but less commonly used. Choice C (Detection of the nasal mucous membrane for M.leprae) is irrelevant as leprosy does not present with the described symptoms. Choice D (Consultation of neuropathist) is premature without ruling out syphilis first. Thus, the Wasserman test, IFT should be the initial examination to investigate the likely cause of the patient's symptoms.