A scientist argues that a newly discovered bacterium causes a specific skin disease because patients with the disease all test positive for the bacterium. Which of the following, if true, most strengthens this argument?
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A
The bacterium was discovered in a research laboratory.
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B
Healthy individuals without the skin disease consistently test negative for the bacterium.
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C
The skin disease affects approximately 2% of the population.
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D
The bacterium is similar in structure to other known pathogens.
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E
The disease has been observed in multiple countries.