Cell - The smallest unit of living matter capable of functioning independently.⏎
Adaptive Mutation - A mechanism through which certain cells can increase the rate in which genetic mutations occur, often in response to stress. This mechanism may help explain how bacteria develop resistance to certain antibiotics.⏎
Bioterrorism - The deliberate release of a virus, bacterium, or other biological agent to cause illness and death in people, animals, or plants.⏎
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - A federal agency under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that works with partners across the United States to ensure public health—through health promotion; prevention of disease, injury, and disability; and preparedness for new health threats.⏎
Beta-lactam Antibiotics - One of several families of antibiotics, including penicillins, cephalosporins, carbapenems, and monobactams, containing a molecular ring-shaped structure made up of three carbon atoms and one nitrogen atom.⏎