Ferrets have recently been objects of an intense debate within the scientific community in the field of Flu research because

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because it indicates a specific reason for the intense debate within the scientific community regarding ferrets in Flu research. Mutations in H5N1 creating a strain transmissible among ferrets is significant as it highlights a potential threat of cross-species transmission and the need for further study. A is incorrect as it does not provide a specific reason related to ferrets and their role in Flu research. B is incorrect because it focuses on a specific strain (H1N1) rather than mutations in H5N1. D is incorrect as it mentions publications being put on hold but does not address the core issue of mutations and transmissibility among ferrets.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Step 1: Evolutionary arms race involves a continuous cycle of adaptations by both hosts and pathogens to gain an advantage. Step 2: Both parties strive to outcompete each other to survive and reproduce. Step 3: This leads to a dynamic process where hosts evolve defense mechanisms while pathogens evolve ways to overcome them. Step 4: Therefore, the key concept is that both hosts and pathogens evolve to outcompete each other in the evolutionary arms race. Summary: - Option B is incorrect as hosts can also evolve rapidly through mechanisms like recombination. - Option C is incorrect as hosts do evolve through genetic changes, not just relying on chemical barriers. - Option D is incorrect as pathogens continuously evolve strategies, not just when hosts fail to adapt.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Phagocytosis. Elie Metchnikoff is credited with discovering phagocytosis, the process in which certain cells engulf and digest foreign particles or microorganisms. He observed this phenomenon in starfish larvae, leading to a groundbreaking understanding of how immune cells defend the body against pathogens. Choice A (Antitoxins) is incorrect because although Metchnikoff made contributions to immunology, his notable discovery was phagocytosis, not antitoxins. Choice C (Germ theory of disease) is incorrect as this theory was developed by Louis Pasteur and Robert Koch. Choice D (Smallpox eradication) is incorrect as this achievement is primarily attributed to the efforts of Edward Jenner and the World Health Organization.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Interferons are the correct answer as they are a cytokine group primarily associated with antiviral responses. They play a key role in the immune response against viral infections by inhibiting viral replication and spreading to other cells. Interleukins are more diverse and involved in various immune responses, not specifically antiviral. Tumor necrosis factors are more related to inflammation and cell death. Transforming growth factors are involved in cell growth and differentiation, not primarily antiviral responses. Therefore, B: Interferons is the most appropriate choice for cytokine group associated with antiviral responses.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Correct Answer: B Rationale: 1. Innate immunity is the first line of defense and does not have memory. 2. Memory is a characteristic of adaptive immunity, not innate immunity. 3. Adaptive immunity improves responses over time through memory. 4. Innate immunity is always present, functional, non-specific, and responds immediately. Summary: A: Always present and functional - Correct, innate immunity is always ready. B: Has memory to improve responses over time - Incorrect, innate immunity lacks memory. C: Recognizes pathogens in a non-specific manner - Correct, innate immunity is non-specific. D: Can respond immediately - Correct, innate immunity acts rapidly.