Which of the following is a risk factor for developing kidney stones?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Having a family history of kidney stones is a risk factor for developing kidney stones. Genetic predisposition can increase the likelihood of developing kidney stones due to inherited traits that affect the body's ability to process and excrete certain substances. Consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables (option A) and maintaining adequate hydration with water (option B) are actually recommended strategies to help prevent kidney stones by promoting overall kidney health. Regularly engaging in moderate exercise (option D) can also be beneficial for kidney health by promoting circulation and overall well-being. Therefore, options A, B, and D are not risk factors but rather beneficial for kidney health.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: HIV targets and destroys Helper T cells, which are vital for coordinating the immune response against infections. The destruction of Helper T cells weakens the immune system, leading to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Neutrophils (Choice A) are primarily involved in acute inflammatory responses and fighting bacterial infections. Macrophages (Choice B) play a role in phagocytosis and antigen presentation but are not the primary target of HIV. Memory B cells (Choice D) are responsible for mounting a quicker and more robust antibody response upon re-exposure to a pathogen, but they are not the main target of HIV infection.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Mycology is the correct answer. Mycology is the branch of biology that specifically deals with the study of fungi. Fungi constitute a separate kingdom of organisms that include various forms such as yeasts, molds, and mushrooms. Virology (A) is the study of viruses, while Bacteriology (C) focuses on bacteria. Parasitology (D) is the study of parasites, which may include protozoa, helminths, and some fungi, but it is not solely dedicated to fungi.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Taxonomy is the science of classifying organisms into different groups based on their evolutionary relationships. It involves identifying, naming, and categorizing living organisms according to their similarities and differences, helping us understand the diversity of life. Microbiology (option B) focuses on the study of microorganisms. Genetics (option C) deals with genes and heredity. Epidemiology (option D) explores the distribution and determinants of health-related states or events in populations. Therefore, the correct answer is Taxonomy as it specifically pertains to the classification of organisms based on their evolutionary relationships.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A) Population: A population consists of individuals of the same species living in the same area. It is a smaller level of ecological organization compared to a biome. B) Community: A community consists of populations of different species living and interacting in the same area. It is a larger level of organization than a population but smaller than an ecosystem or biome. C) Ecosystem: An ecosystem includes all living organisms (biotic factors) and their physical environment (abiotic factors) interacting in a particular area. It is a larger level of organization than a community but smaller than a biome. D) Biome: The correct answer is D - Biome. A biome is the largest level of ecological organization and encompasses a large geographic area characterized by a specific climate, vegetation, and animal life. Biomes can be found on multiple continents and are defined by similar abiotic and biotic factors. Therefore, it is the largest level of ecological organization among the options provided, making it the correct answer.