What is the muscular sac in the female body that nourishes and protects a developing fetus?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is the uterus. The uterus is a muscular organ in the female body where a fertilized egg implants and grows into a fetus during pregnancy. It provides nourishment and protection to the developing fetus. The ovaries produce eggs, the fallopian tubes transport eggs from the ovaries to the uterus, and the vagina is the muscular tube that connects the uterus to the outside of the body for childbirth. Therefore, the roles of the ovary, fallopian tube, and vagina are not related to nourishing and protecting a developing fetus, making them incorrect choices.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Frequent smoking can weaken the immune system by damaging immune cells and impairing their function. Smoking increases the risk of respiratory infections and other illnesses, negatively impacting immune health. Therefore, frequent smoking is a lifestyle practice that can weaken the immune system. Choices A, B, and C are all beneficial practices that support a healthy immune system. Getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and managing stress levels are important for maintaining optimal immune function and overall well-being.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Pernicious anemia is caused by a deficiency in vitamin B12 (cobalamin). Vitamin B12 is essential for the production of red blood cells and for the proper functioning of the nervous system. Pernicious anemia occurs when there is a lack of intrinsic factor, a protein produced in the stomach that is necessary for the absorption of vitamin B12 in the digestive system. Vitamin A, Vitamin D, and Vitamin E deficiencies do not lead to pernicious anemia. Vitamin A deficiency can cause night blindness and skin issues, Vitamin D deficiency can lead to rickets or osteomalacia, and Vitamin E deficiency can result in neurological problems and muscle weakness.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A routine urinalysis evaluates multiple components of urine, including blood sugar levels, the presence of white blood cells indicating a possible infection, and kidney function. Blood sugar levels are assessed to monitor for conditions like diabetes. The presence of white blood cells is checked to detect possible urinary tract infections. Kidney function is evaluated by assessing markers like creatinine and protein levels. Therefore, all of the above options are typically evaluated in a urinalysis, making choice D the correct answer.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Carrying waste products away from tissues. The lymphatic system functions to maintain fluid balance in the body by removing excess fluid, filtering out harmful substances, and transporting waste products away from tissues. It does not primarily focus on transporting oxygen and nutrients to cells, regulating body temperature, or producing red blood cells. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as the primary function of the lymphatic system is related to waste removal and maintaining fluid balance in the body, rather than roles such as nutrient transport, temperature regulation, or red blood cell production.