Pulsed Field Gel Electrophoresis Has Been Performed on Two Isolates

question 7

Multiple Choice

Pulsed field gel electrophoresis has been performed on two isolates of Escherichia coli from the blood of newborns in the same neonatal unit. The banding pattern of one isolate had two differences from the banding pattern of the other isolate. Which of the following is the correct interpretation of these results?

• A) The isolates are indistinguishable.
• B) The isolates are closely related.
• C) The isolates are not related.
• D) The isolates are different species.

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Definitions:

Normally Distributed

A descriptor for a dataset or population in which the data follow a bell-shaped curve symmetry about the mean.

Mean Change

The difference in the average values or mean scores of a dataset between two points in time or conditions.

Carbonyl Stretching Frequency

The specific frequency at which the carbonyl group (C=O) vibrates in an infrared spectrum, used to identify the presence of carbonyl-containing compounds.

Compounds

Chemical substances formed by the combination of two or more elements in fixed ratios, possessing unique chemical and physical properties.