microbiology an evolving science test bank

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why B (Gamma Interferon) is the correct answer: 1. Gamma Interferon is a type of immunomodulator that helps regulate the immune response. 2. It activates macrophages and enhances the immune system's ability to fight infections. 3. Rifampin is an antibiotic, not an immunomodulator. 4. Hexacima and Pentaxim are combination vaccines, not immunomodulators. In summary, Gamma Interferon is the correct answer as it directly influences the immune response, while the other choices are not immunomodulators.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Immobilization. This technique is called the Treponema pallidum immobilization (TPI) test, used to diagnose syphilis. The rationale is as follows: 1. TPI test detects antibodies that prevent the movement of treponemas, causing their death. 2. By immobilizing the treponemas, it indicates the presence of specific antibodies against syphilis. 3. This test is highly specific for syphilis diagnosis as it directly targets the causative agent. Other choices are incorrect: B: Complement binding - Not specific to syphilis, more commonly used for other diseases. C: Agglutination - Detects clumping of particles, not specific to treponemas or syphilis. D: Precipitation - Involves the formation of a solid, not directly related to treponema movement or death.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Bordetella pertussis. This bacterium causes whooping cough by attaching to the respiratory tract and releasing toxins that lead to severe coughing fits. Clostridium tetani causes tetanus, not whooping cough. Haemophilus influenzae can cause respiratory infections but not specifically whooping cough. Staphylococcus aureus is known for causing skin infections and not respiratory diseases like whooping cough. Therefore, the presence of Bordetella pertussis and its specific mechanism of causing whooping cough makes it the correct answer.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Endospore. Endospores are dormant, tough, and non-reproductive structures formed by certain bacteria as a response to unfavorable conditions. They help bacteria survive harsh environments such as extreme temperatures, desiccation, and exposure to harmful chemicals. The other choices, Flagella (A), Capsule (B), and Pili (D), do not directly contribute to bacterial survival in adverse conditions. Flagella aid in bacterial movement, capsules provide protection from immune system attacks, and pili are involved in attachment to surfaces or other cells. Endospores are specifically designed for survival during unfavorable conditions, making them the correct choice in this scenario.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Resistance to heat and dehydration. Spore-forming bacteria form spores as a survival mechanism in harsh conditions. These spores are highly resistant to heat and dehydration, allowing the bacteria to withstand extreme environments. This characteristic is essential for their long-term survival and ability to persist in unfavorable conditions. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because not all spore-forming bacteria produce toxins, have flagella, or are capable of photosynthesis. These characteristics are not exclusive to spore-forming bacteria and do not define them as a group.