The degree or extent of disease-evoking power that a microorganism has is referred to as:

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: virulence. Virulence refers to the degree or extent of disease-evoking power that a microorganism possesses. This term specifically describes the ability of a microorganism to cause disease in a host. It is a crucial factor in understanding the pathogenicity of different microorganisms. Choice B: strength is incorrect because it does not specifically relate to the disease-causing potential of a microorganism. Choice C: resistance refers to the ability of an organism to withstand the effects of a particular agent, such as a drug or environmental factor. Choice D: competence is not directly related to the disease-causing ability of a microorganism, but rather refers to the ability of an organism to perform a specific function effectively.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: microbemia. When microorganisms enter the circulatory system via the lymphatic drainage, the condition is specifically termed microbemia. This term focuses on the presence of microorganisms in the bloodstream. Rationale: 1. Bacteremia (choice A) refers to the presence of bacteria in the bloodstream, not specifically microorganisms as a whole. 2. Septicemia (choice B) is a severe infection causing systemic inflammation due to the presence of pathogens or their toxins in the blood, not limited to microorganisms entering via lymphatic drainage. 3. Viremia (choice D) is the presence of viruses in the bloodstream, not a term used for microorganisms entering through the lymphatic drainage. In summary, the term microbemia accurately describes the scenario of microorganisms entering the circulatory system through lymphatic drainage, making it the correct choice over the other options.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Vaginitis is often caused by an imbalance in vaginal flora. Antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance, leading to overgrowth of harmful bacteria or yeast. Pregnancy alters hormone levels, making the vagina more susceptible to infection. Menopause decreases estrogen levels, thinning the vaginal walls and reducing beneficial bacteria. A: Urinary blockage does not directly relate to vaginitis. Drug use and stress may weaken the immune system but are not direct causes of vaginitis. C: Puberty, HPV exposure, and smoking/tobacco use do not directly increase the chances of vaginitis. HPV is a viral infection, not a direct cause of vaginitis. D: While menopause can increase the risk of vaginitis due to hormonal changes, stress and steroid use are not primary factors in developing vaginitis.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: adolescents. Infectious mononucleosis is commonly caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, which is transmitted through saliva. Adolescents are more likely to engage in activities like kissing and sharing drinks, increasing the chances of virus transmission. Infants have maternal antibodies for protection, young adults may have developed immunity, and the elderly have had more exposure to the virus and may have built immunity over time.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: acetyl-CoA. Acetyl-CoA is the compound that combines with oxaloacetic acid at the beginning of the Krebs cycle to form citric acid. This step is essential for the cycle to proceed, making acetyl-CoA the correct choice. A: Citric acid is formed after acetyl-CoA combines with oxaloacetic acid, so it is a product of the reaction, not the compound that enters the cycle. B: Pyruvic acid is converted to acetyl-CoA in a separate process before entering the Krebs cycle. D: Phosphoglyceraldehyde is not involved in the Krebs cycle; it is a compound in glycolysis.