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.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The primary target of beta-lactam antibiotics is cell wall synthesis. These antibiotics inhibit enzymes called penicillin-binding proteins, which are essential for building the bacterial cell wall. By disrupting cell wall synthesis, beta-lactam antibiotics weaken the cell wall, leading to bacterial cell lysis and death. Protein synthesis (Choice A), DNA replication (Choice B), and folic acid synthesis (Choice D) are not directly targeted by beta-lactam antibiotics, making them incorrect choices.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Obligate anaerobes. These bacteria can only survive in the absence of oxygen as they lack the enzymes needed for aerobic respiration. They typically use fermentation or anaerobic respiration for energy production. Incorrect choices: B: Facultative anaerobes can switch between aerobic and anaerobic metabolism based on oxygen availability. C: Obligate aerobes require oxygen for survival and cannot survive in anoxic conditions. D: Microaerophiles require low levels of oxygen for growth and are not capable of surviving in completely anoxic conditions.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Tetanus. The patient's symptoms of muscle contractions, fever, and wound history suggest tetanus, caused by Clostridium tetani bacteria commonly found in soil. The spastic muscle contractions around the wound are classic for tetanus due to the neurotoxin produced by the bacteria. General weakness and headache are also common symptoms. B: Anthrax is unlikely as it presents with different symptoms such as skin lesions, respiratory symptoms, and gastrointestinal symptoms. C: Erysipelas is characterized by red, swollen patches on the skin, not consistent with the symptoms described. D: Gram-positive is not a specific diagnosis but a broad category of bacteria. Tetanus is caused by Clostridium tetani, which is a Gram-positive bacterium, but this choice does not provide a specific infection diagnosis.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because CSF (Cerebrospinal fluid) is the sample used for proving epidemic meningitis. It should be transported at 37°C to maintain its integrity. Blood and nasopharyngeal secretions are not typically used for diagnosing meningitis. Choice B, feces, is unrelated to the diagnosis of meningitis. Choice C, CSF transported at +4°C, is incorrect as it should be transported at 37°C to prevent degradation of the sample. Therefore, A is the correct choice for proving epidemic meningitis due to the specificity of the sample and the proper transport conditions.