Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Rationale for choice C (Strep. pneumoniae): 1. Strep. pneumoniae is a common cause of bacterial meningitis. 2. It is a leading pathogen responsible for meningitis in adults and children. 3. It can invade the bloodstream and reach the meninges, causing inflammation. 4. Treatment guidelines often include antibiotics effective against Strep. pneumoniae. Summary of why other choices are incorrect: A. Staph. aureus is not a common cause of meningitis. B. Strep. pyogenes typically causes streptococcal infections but not meningitis. D. "None of the above" is incorrect as Strep. pneumoniae can cause meningitis.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Thermophiles. Thermophiles are bacteria that thrive in high temperatures, typically between 45-80 degrees Celsius. They have adapted to extreme heat environments and have enzymes that function optimally at high temperatures. Mesophiles (A) grow best at moderate temperatures, Psychrophiles (B) thrive in cold temperatures, and Halophiles (D) thrive in high salt concentrations. Therefore, only Thermophiles are specifically adapted to high temperatures, making it the correct choice.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: All of the above. Clostridium botulinum, Salmonella enterica, and Escherichia coli are all common bacteria associated with food poisoning. Clostridium botulinum produces a potent neurotoxin causing botulism. Salmonella enterica causes salmonellosis, a common foodborne illness. Escherichia coli can produce toxins leading to food poisoning. Therefore, since all three bacteria are known to cause food poisoning, the correct answer is D. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because each of these bacteria individually is commonly associated with food poisoning, not just one of them.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: TRUE. The innate immune system is the body's first line of defense against infections and is always active, providing immediate protection without prior exposure to a specific pathogen. It includes physical barriers, such as skin and mucous membranes, and cellular components like phagocytes and natural killer cells. The innate immune response is nonspecific and rapid, providing a crucial initial defense against pathogens. Choice B is incorrect because the innate immune system is always active, even without any prior exposure to pathogens. Choice C is incorrect because the innate immune system is consistently functioning to protect the body, regardless of the situation. Choice D is incorrect as the correct answer is A.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Bordetella pertussis. This bacterium is known for causing whooping cough due to its ability to produce toxins that damage the respiratory tract, leading to severe coughing fits. Clostridium tetani causes tetanus, Haemophilus influenzae can cause respiratory infections but not whooping cough, and Staphylococcus aureus is more commonly associated with skin infections. Therefore, A is the correct choice based on its specific association with the disease in question.