Correct Answer: D

Rationale: If pregnancy does not occur, the corpus luteum will shrink. As a result, the lining of the uterus is discarded through the process of menstruation. This shedding of the uterine lining is what causes menstrual bleeding.

Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not describe the physiological response of the body when pregnancy does not occur. The corpus luteum shrinking and the subsequent shedding of the uterine lining are part of the menstrual cycle, not processes related to cell duplication, zygote multiplication, or the duration of the germinal period.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale:
To avoid exposure to toxoplasmosis, Kaye should ask other family members to change the litter box.
Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic infection that can be transmitted through cat feces, so it is important for pregnant women to avoid handling cat litter to reduce the risk of infection.

Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they are not directly related to preventing toxoplasmosis. Smoking cessation is important for overall health but not specifically to prevent toxoplasmosis. Picking up after the dog and feeding the fish are not relevant to preventing toxoplasmosis, as the infection is primarily associated with cat feces.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A major limitation of systematic observation is that it tells investigators little about the reasoning behind responses and behaviors. Systematic observation focuses more on recording observable behaviors rather than delving into the underlying reasons or thought processes driving those behaviors.

Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because systematic observation can indeed provide detailed information on how participants actually behave, it doesn't necessarily underestimate the capacities of individuals who struggle with verbal expression, and it doesn't solely ignore participants with poor memories as it can capture behavior in real-time regardless of memory recall.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Epidural analgesia is the most common approach to controlling pain during labor. It involves the administration of pain medication through a catheter placed in the epidural space of the spine, providing pain relief while allowing the mother to remain alert and participate in the birthing process. It is preferred by many women due to its effectiveness in reducing labor pain.

Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not directly address pain management during labor. While an anesthetic and a spinal block are forms of pain relief, epidural analgesia is specifically the most common method used for pain control during labor.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The statement that the genetic makeup of the mother and the developing organism plays an important role in the harm done by teratogens is true. Genetic factors can influence susceptibility to teratogens, and the interaction between genetic and environmental factors plays a significant role in determining the impact on the developing fetus. This highlights the importance of considering both genetic and environmental influences when assessing risks to prenatal development.
Choice A is incorrect as passive smoking can indeed be harmful to the developing fetus.
Choice C is incorrect as the negative impact of teratogens is often not reversible.
Choice D is incorrect as serious defects can occur throughout prenatal development, not just in the germinal period.