1 . Cloud “engineering” could be more effective for climate cooling than previously thought, because of the increased cloud cover produced, new research shows.

In a study published in Nature Geoscience, researchers at the University of Birmingham found that marine cloud brightening (MCB), also known as marine cloud engineering, works primarily by increasing the amount of cloud cover, accounting for 60% — 90% of the cooling effect.

The practice of MCB has attracted much attention in recent years as a way of offsetting the global warming effects caused by humans and buying some time while the global economy decarbonizes (脱碳). It works by spraying tiny particles, or aerosols (气溶胶), into the atmosphere where they mix with clouds and with the primary aim of increasing the amount of sunlight that clouds can reflect.

However, the ways in which MCB creates a cooling effect, and the ways in which clouds will respond to aerosols, are still poorly understood. To investigate the phenomenon, the researchers created a “natural experiment”, using aerosol injection from the effusive eruption of Kilauea volcano in Hawaii to study the interactions between these natural aerosols, clouds, and climate.

Using machine learning and historic satellite and meteorological (气象学的) data, the team created a predictor to show how the cloud would behave during periods when the volcano was inactive. This predictor enabled them to identify clearly the impacts on the clouds that had been directly caused by the volcanic aerosols.

They were able to show that the cloud cover relatively increased by up to 50% during the periods of volcanic activity, producing a cooling effect of up to — 10 W/m² regionally.

Lead author, Dr Ying Chen, of the University of Birmingham, said, “Our findings show that marine cloud brightening could be more effective as a climate intervention than climate models have suggested previously. Of course, while it could be useful, MCB does not address the underlying causes of global warming from greenhouse gases produced by human activities. It should therefore be regarded as a ‘painkiller’, rather than a solution.”

1. How does MCB help global cooling according to the study?

A．By decreasing the amount of sunlight.

B．By boosting the volume of cloud cover.

C．By reducing the amount of cloud cover.

D．By removing greenhouse gases from the atmosphere.

2. What does the underlined word “offsetting” mean in paragraph 3?

A．Weakening.

B．Destroying.

C．Ignoring.

D．Suspending.

3. What does Dr Ying Chen think of MCB?

A．Perfect.

B．Ineffective.

C．Valueless.

D．Fruitful.

4. What can be the best title for the text?

A．The Mechanism Behind Marine Cloud Brightening

B．Understanding The Impact Of Aerosols On Clouds And Climate

C．Enhancing Climate Cooling Through Marine Cloud Brightening

D．Marine Cloud Brightening: A Solution To Climate Cooling Strategy

2 . The months of July and August are often known as the “dog days of summer”, bringing in longer, hotter and sunnier days for you to throw the perfect dog birthday party.

Choosing the right spot

If you’re lucky enough to have a garden big enough, that couldn’t be better.     1    . If not, then dog - friendly parks, beaches and cafes can also make for great alternatives. Consider how many guests you’ll be inviting, both humans and animals, and make sure the space is big and secure enough to accommodate.

Picking the menu

    2    ! Some bakeries and pet stores will provide treats perfect for the occasion. However when in doubt, homemade is always better. Take a look online and you’ll find a ton of recipes and take a look at the ingredients to make sure they’re good for the dogs.

Setting up activities

Dogs love to socialise and play together, so why not bring a few activities into the mix. From frozen lick mats, tug of war to even a mini swimming pool, there are plenty of options to keep the guests of honour entertained.     3    . It can show off their dogs’ best skills.

    4    

Photos of your puppy party will give you memories to look back on forever, and who doesn’t love showing their pup off online? Add some props (道具) and a special backdrop to make your pictures even more double-tap worthy.

Don’t forget the humans

While the puppies are undoubtedly the real stars of the party, you can’t forget about your fellow human guests. Consider dog-themed treats, drinks and music. And finally, don’t send your guests home empty-pawed.     5    .

A．Set up a photo spot

B．Record more memorable moments

C．All your furry friends can run around freely there

D．The owners would be also interested in getting involved

E．A little gift with a thank-you note and an extra toy go a long way

F．Arguably the most exciting aspect of any puppy party is the treats

G．A trick contest is also a great way for the humans to get involved

3 . 阅读下面短文，在空白处填入1个适当的单词或括号内单词的正确形式。

Chinese ancient architecture is a treasure of cultural heritage, reflecting China’s rich history and unique cultural identity. With a history     1     (date) back thousands of years, it has evolved and diversified to become one of the most distinctive styles in the world.

Chinese ancient architecture is characterized by its use of natural materials such as wood, brick, and stone, in conjunction with fancy carvings and decorative details. Bridges, tombs, temples, and towers are some of the key     2     (feature) of Chinese ancient architecture     3     have stood the test of time.

One of the most iconic examples of Chinese ancient architecture is the Forbidden City in Beijing. Construction of the Forbidden City began in 1406 and took over a decade     4     (complete). It served     5     the royal palace of the Ming and Qing dynasties and is now a popular tourist attraction. The Forbidden City is known for the harmony of its design.

In southern China, the rice terraces (梯田) are     6     unique example of Chinese ancient architecture.     7     (carve) out of the mountains over centuries, these terraces provide a complex system for irrigation and cultivation. The rice terraces are not only a crucial part of Chinese agricultural history but also a masterpiece of engineering and geometry.

Chinese ancient architecture has had a profound influence on the     8     (globe) architecture, and many element s and designs     9     (adopt) and adapted in different parts of the world ever since. Today, Chinese rich architectural heritage gains     10     (recognize) worldwide, becoming a reminder of China’s rich cultural history.

4 . Holidays abroad are officially back, with millions set to book a trip away this summer, To guarantee a stress-free break, use these practical tips.

Take out travel insurance as soon as you book

By not having insurance, travellers risk having to pay substantial medical or repatriation (遣送回国) costs if they fall ill or hurt themselves abroad     1     . Make sure you take out comprehensive travel insurance as soon as you book. So if something goes wrong and you can't travel, you could claim for the cost of your holiday.

    2    

With tourist areas expected to be crowded this year, many visitors will face disappointment if they don’t book attractions or restaurants in advance. Avoid long queues at busy places by making a reservation.

Invest in a translation device or app

    3    , being able to speak and clearly understand the local language will make your whole holiday experience stress free and much more enjoyable. When you want to order food, call for taxis, or communicate with the locals, a language translation device or app such as Pocketalk will help ensure your trip runs smoothly.

Be aware of potential cheats and financial tricks abroad

Unfortunately, as a traveller, you can attract the attention of criminals who see you as an easy target, so it’s important to stay alert to the possible risk of theft, cheats and other financial tricks.     4    . Do not let your credit card leave your sight when paying for things.

Prepare for delays

With large numbers of travellers expected this year,be prepared for airports, ports and stations to be extremely busy with a high chance of delays. Have a less stressful journey by allowing yourself plenty of time to check in and get through security.     5    

A．When you travel abroad

B．If you have prepared for the trip

C．Book activities and attractions in advance

D．And they may also risk a delay in treatment

E．Avoid carrying large amounts of cash when exploring

F．Make sure you have books, magazines, or games to keep you entertained

G．Forget awkward hand gestures and pointing and concentrate on making memories

5 . 听下面一段较长对话，回答以下小题。
1. Who is the man?

A．A teacher.

B．A writer.

C．A student.

2. What day is it today?

A．Tuesday.

B．Friday.

C．Sunday.

3. What does the man want to know from the woman?

A．Western table manners.

B．Chinese table manners.

C．Chinese daily life.

4. What will the man and the woman do next?

A．Have breakfast.

B．Wash the dishes.

C．Study chopsticks.

6 . 听下面一段独白，回答以下小题。
1. Where is the speaker from?

A．China.

B．America.

C．Britain.

2. What did the speaker like to do on Thanksgiving Day night?

A．Prepare the food.

B．Watch the football game.

C．Do some shopping.

3. What does the speaker mainly talk about?

A．His professor.

B．A festival.

C．American football.

7 . 阅读下面短文，在空白处填入1 个适当的单词或括号内单词的正确形式。

The core value of Chinese traditional culture is the concept of harmony. Harmony is, in fact, a complete cultural system that consists of not only     1     (value) but also a philosophy with its own world outlook. Harmony means “proper and balanced cooperation between things”.

    2     harmony at the heart, traditional Chinese principles suggest that there is a built-in dynamic in the universe that turns imbalance into balance. This concept, deeply     3     (mix) into the history of Chinese society, advocates for a balanced and     4     (peace) coexistence within the individual, between people, and between humanity and nature.

At the centre of Chinese cultural harmony is the belief in the interconnectedness of all things. It     5     (reflect) in various aspects of Chinese life, from the emphasis on family unity and social bond     6     the practice of traditional arts and the governance of the state.

The significance of harmony in Chinese culture cannot be overstated. It has shaped China’s approach to international relations,     7     (highlight) harmonious coexistence and shared benefit. In taking care of the environment,     8     inspires efforts to live according to natural cycles and to respect all forms of life. Moreover, the concept of harmony,     9     has enabled China to maintain social stability and cultural consistency despite the challenges of history, offers a model for settling conflicts and promoting a sense of community and belonging. As the world becomes     10     (steady) interconnected, the principles of Chinese cultural harmony offer valuable insights for creating a more balanced and sustainable global society.

8 . “If after the first 50 pages of a book you don’t get engaged, you’re allowed to stop reading and try again later when you feel ready for it,” my father told me.

My father holds this ______ responsible for his lifelong love of literature. As a busy labourer, he has regarded reading books as an almost sacred ______. He feels a strong, perhaps, irresistible ______ to read frequently and a lot.

I don’t think my father ______ to hand the advice down to me. He’s not the sort to give advice and I’m not the sort to ______ it. But I find it’s the advice that’s delivered ______ that.is most likely to be listened to.

I like this advice “reading first 50 pages”, for the generosity and respect it extends to a book’s ______ and their craft. A reader, it suggests, needs a little ______ to adapt to a book’s particular tone and voice. Meanwhile, this advice gives a person permission to ______ reading. Nobody, it implies, need force themselves to struggle through a book they’re not ______.

I particularly like the ______ advice to return to a book “when you feel ready for it.” It’s a ______ that reading is naturally relational and that the readers need time.

Even when I’m more than ready to stop reading by page 50, ______ the exercise feels worth doing. Just like stopping swimming halfway makes the muscles in my legs ache ______ it uses them in a different way from cycling. But in both cases, it’s a satisfying kind of hurt because it’s a ______ of getting stronger.

1.

A．warning

B．request

C．guarantee

D．advice

2.

A．debate

B．escape

C．beg

D．protest

3.

A．trend

B．view

C．urge

D．influence

4.

A．dared

B．forgot

C．hesitated

D．intended

5.

A．invite

B．write

C．drop

D．support

6.

A．safely

B．quickly

C．indirectly

D．personally

7.

A．reader

B．author

C．editor

D．publisher

8.

A．patience

B．luck

C．help

D．grace

9.

A．finish

B．teach

C．love

D．stop

10.

A．referring to

B．talking about

C．connecting with

D．commenting on

11.

A．strong

B．gentle

C．honest

D．timely

12.

A．recognition

B．duty

C．pity

D．wonder

13.

A．thus

B．just

C．then

D．still

14.

A．unless

B．because

C．once

D．before

15.

A．sign

B．rule

C．question

D．goal

9 . When Mark Twain visited Florence (佛罗伦萨) in 1867, he dutifully visited the city’s museums, churches, and tombs. But as he stood by the Arno, he began to sense the Italians’ insistence that it was a river, not a stream. “They all call it a river, and they honestly think it is a river, do these dark and bloody Florentines,” he complained, “I might enter Florence under happier circumstances a month hence and find it all beautiful, all attractive. But I do not care to think of it now, at all.”

It’s normal to feel uncomfortable outside your home culture. Feelings of discomfort, dislocation, and overload among travelers are referred to by many as “culture shock.” But Susan Goldstein, a professor at the University of Redlands says, “ Though the term has existed for many years, ‘Culture shock’ implies a dramatic, unexpected, negative event. Though many travelers will experience such challenges, a real sense of ‘shock’ is untypical. So untypical that many researchers no longer use the term.”

It was the vivid description of culture shock by Canadian researcher Oberg, written in 1960 in response to his own multicultural experiences, that won over audiences. The researcher spoke of the adjustment process as “an occupational disease of people who have suddenly been transplanted abroad” — a “disease” that progressed from a honeymoon phase, through rejecting the new environment, to finally adjusting fully to it. By the 1970s many researchers adopted the idea that, like physical illnesses, culture shock progressed through a remarkably consistent and universal set of stages.

Modern research, however, suggests that the experiences of adaptation are individual, not universal. “People will have their ups and downs, but for the most part, they will become increasingly comfortable and competent over time,” Goldstein says. And while many connect the causes of culture shock to the host culture itself, an individual’s internal expectations and differences are just as important.

As for Mark Twain, the moody author was able to ride out his feelings of upset and dislocation while traveling. He eventually finished out his European tour - and in his bestselling travel memoir The Innocents Abroad, famously remarked that travel is “fatal to prejudice and narrow-mindedness.” With the right attitude - and the willingness to seek help if you need it - it’s more than likely that you, too, can adapt and grow in new settings, building new memories-and toughness - with each new stamp in your passport.

1. How did Mark Twain feel about Italians’ insistence?

A．Annoyed.

B．Calm.

C．Uninterested.

D．Curious.

2. What can be inferred about culture shock?

A．It would lead to physical diseases.

B．It was regarded as an avoidable thing.

C．It was named for people’s adjustment.

D．It had gained wide acceptance by the 1970s.

3. What is paragraph 4 mainly about?

A．Suggestions about culture shock.

B．A change in understanding culture shock.

C．Stress of the importance of culture shock.

D．A criticism of previous idea of culture shock.

4. Why is Mark Twain mentioned in the last paragraph?

A．To remember him.	B．To inform and anticipate.
C．To conclude and encourage.	D．To make the ending humorous.

10 . Powerful Benefits of Journaling

When looking for a way to better manage stress and feel your best, consider adding journaling to.     1     It’s a pathway to deeper self-understanding, emotional clarity, and psychological recovery.

Practice journaling as therapy (治疗)

By making journaling a regular practice, you create a space for self-reflection that can lead to personal growth and psychological treatment.     2     Once you start, with each word you write, you’re taking a step towards a deeper understanding of yourself and moving closer to well-being.

Release and process feelings

    3     Journaling provides a private, judgment-free space to explore and express emotions without reservation. This process of externalizing what’s inside can be incredibly cathartic (宣泄的), helping to reduce stress and manage extreme emotions.

Help recognize sources of stress

Think of it as a safe space to express how you feel, leading to a significant decrease in stress levels. Sometimes the first step in building the life you want starts with simple awareness. Journaling gives you a chance to recognize what stresses you out in the first place.     4    

Promote mindfulness

Journaling brings your focus to the present. Just like in mindful meditation (冥想), journaling gives you an outlet to observe thoughts and emotions without judgment. Think of this as an act of self-love, to accept yourself in the present moment just as you are.     5    

A．This practice goes beyond just recording daily events

B．Even just five minutes can help gain some comprehension

C．Sometimes people find it challenging to express their emotions.

D．This mindfulness aspect provides a crucial tool in reducing stress.

E．Once you notice bad situations, you can remove that source of stress.

F．This can enhance decision-making skills and promote an approach to life’s difficulties.

G．To begin your therapeutic journaling journey, the most important aspect is to get started