Toxoplasma gondii belongs to which group of eukaryotic organisms?
- A. Algae
- B. Fungi
- C. Protozoans
- D. Helminths
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite known to cause toxoplasmosis. It belongs to the group of eukaryotic organisms called protozoans because it is a single-celled organism with complex cellular structures. Protozoans are characterized by their ability to move and perform essential functions independently. Algae (choice A) are photosynthetic eukaryotic organisms, fungi (choice B) are non-photosynthetic eukaryotes that include molds and yeasts, and helminths (choice D) are multicellular parasitic worms. Therefore, the correct answer is C because Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite.
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A relationship in which one organism benefits and the other is harmed is called:
- A. commensalism
- B. parasitism
- C. synergism
- D. antagonism
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: parasitism. In parasitism, one organism (parasite) benefits at the expense of the other organism (host). The parasite derives nutrients or resources from the host, causing harm or even death in some cases. This relationship is characterized by asymmetry, where one organism benefits while the other is negatively impacted. Commensalism (A) is a relationship where one organism benefits while the other is unaffected. Synergism (C) is a mutually beneficial relationship where both organisms benefit. Antagonism (D) is a relationship where both organisms are harmed or inhibited.
Which bacteria produce endotoxins that can cause septic shock?
- A. Escherichia coli
- B. Salmonella enterica
- C. Pseudomonas aeruginosa
- D. All of the above
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa all produce endotoxins that can lead to septic shock. Endotoxins are part of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria and can trigger a systemic inflammatory response if released into the bloodstream. E. coli and Salmonella are common causes of bacterial infections that can lead to septic shock, while P. aeruginosa is a known opportunistic pathogen that can produce endotoxins. Therefore, all three bacteria can cause septic shock by releasing endotoxins. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because each of these bacteria individually can produce endotoxins that contribute to the development of septic shock.
Which type of bacteria have an outer membrane containing lipopolysaccharides (LPS)?
- A. Gram-positive bacteria
- B. Gram-negative bacteria
- C. Both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria
- D. Neither Gram-positive nor Gram-negative bacteria
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Gram-negative bacteria. Gram-negative bacteria have an outer membrane containing lipopolysaccharides (LPS). In the Gram staining technique, these bacteria appear pink/red due to the thin peptidoglycan layer, which allows the crystal violet stain to be washed out, revealing the safranin counterstain. Gram-positive bacteria (choice A) have a thick peptidoglycan layer but lack an outer membrane with LPS. Choice C is incorrect since only Gram-negative bacteria possess LPS in their outer membrane. Choice D is incorrect as all bacteria can be classified as either Gram-positive or Gram-negative based on their cell wall structure.
A child presented with foul-smelling diarrhea. Stool microscopy revealed trophozoites with two nuclei and flagella. What is the causative agent?
- A. Giardia lamblia
- B. Entamoeba histolytica
- C. Trichomonas vaginalis
- D. Balantidium coli
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Giardia lamblia. Giardia lamblia is a protozoan parasite that causes foul-smelling diarrhea. The trophozoites of Giardia lamblia have two nuclei and flagella, which are characteristic features seen on stool microscopy. The presence of these specific features helps differentiate Giardia lamblia from the other options. Entamoeba histolytica (B) typically presents with one nucleus and lacks flagella. Trichomonas vaginalis (C) is a sexually transmitted parasite with a different morphology. Balantidium coli (D) is a ciliated parasite, not flagellated like Giardia lamblia.
A Gram-stained smear from a wound revealed Gram-positive rods with terminal spores. The bacteria were anaerobic and produced gas. What is the most likely causative agent?
- A. Clostridium perfringens
- B. Bacillus anthracis
- C. Clostridium botulinum
- D. Clostridium tetani
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Clostridium perfringens. This bacterium is an anaerobic, Gram-positive rod that forms terminal spores and produces gas. It is commonly associated with wound infections and gas gangrene. Clostridium botulinum causes botulism and does not typically present with gas production. Bacillus anthracis is an aerobic, Gram-positive spore-forming bacterium causing anthrax. Clostridium tetani causes tetanus and does not produce gas. Thus, based on the characteristics described in the question, Clostridium perfringens is the most likely causative agent.