The development of the disease was INSIDIOUS.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The term 'insidious' typically describes something that occurs gradually and subtly, often without being noticed until it has become more serious or established. Therefore, the development of the disease being insidious suggests that it was gradual, aligning best with the meaning of the word in this context. Choice A, 'momentous,' means significant or important, which is opposite in meaning to insidious. Choice B, 'sudden,' indicates something happening quickly and unexpectedly, contrary to the gradual nature of an insidious development. Choice C, 'innocuous,' means harmless or not likely to cause harm, which does not accurately reflect the negative and harmful connotation associated with an insidious disease development.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The US imports most of its silicone chips from Japan and China, indicating that the silicone chips are being brought into the US from these countries. 'Imports' refers to the act of bringing goods or services into one country from another, which accurately describes the scenario described in the question. The other choices are incorrect: 'Deports' means expelling individuals from a country, 'Exports' mean sending goods to another country, and 'Reports' mean providing information or data.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The term 'PROGNOSIS' refers to the expected outcome or likelihood of recovery after a specific treatment or illness. In this context, the word 'PROGNOSIS' directly relates to the expected outcome following the treatment, making choice C - Expected outcome - the correct answer. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because 'Compliance' refers to following instructions, 'Range of motion' relates to the extent of movement in a joint, and 'Conclusion' is a summary or final decision, none of which captures the meaning of 'PROGNOSIS.'

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'effect.' The verb 'effect' is defined as to bring about, cause to happen, accomplish, or make. It describes the action of making something happen or producing a result. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because 'affect' means to influence, 'accept' means to receive willingly, and 'expect' means to anticipate. Therefore, the correct choice is D, 'effect.'

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The word UBIQUITOUS means something that is found everywhere or is very common. Therefore, the correct meaning for ubiquitous is 'widespread'. 'Miniscule' means very small, 'invalid' means not valid or acceptable, and 'unit' refers to a single entity or component, making them incorrect choices in the context of the word ubiquitous.