1 . A new study by researchers at the University of British Columbia (UBC) and the University of Victoria has shown that common levels of traffic pollution can damage human brain function in only a matter of hours.
“For many decades, scientists thought the brain may be protected from the harmful effects of air pollution,” said senior study author Dr. Chris Carlsten. “This study, which is the first of its kind in the world, provides fresh evidence supporting a connection between air pollution and cognition.”
For the study, the researchers briefly exposed 25 healthy adults to diesel exhaust (柴油废气) and filtered air at different times in a laboratory setting. Brain activity was measured before and after each exposure using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).
The researchers analyzed changes in the brain’s default mode network (DMN), a set of inter-connected brain regions that play an important role in memory and internal thought. The fMRI revealed that participants had decreased functional connectivity in widespread regions of the DMN after exposure to diesel exhaust, compared to filtered air.
“We know that altered functional connectivity in the DMN has been associated with reduced cognitive performance and symptoms of depression, so it’s concerning to see traffic pollution interrupting these same networks,” said Dr. Jodie Gawryluk, a psychology professor at the University of Victoria and the study’s first author. “While more research is needed to fully understand the functional impacts of these changes, it’s possible that they may impair (损害) people’s thinking or ability to work.”
Notably, the changes in the brain were temporary and participants’ connectivity returned to normal after the exposure. Dr. Carlsten assumed that the effects could be long lasting where exposure is continuous. He said that people should be mindful of the air they’re breathing and take appropriate steps to minimize their exposure to potentially harmful air pollutants like car exhaust.
1. How does traffic pollution affect people according to the study?A.Exhausting their body. | B.Decreasing their income. |
C.Endangering their safety. | D.Harming their brain function. |
A.Growth. | B.Sport. | C.Memory. | D.Behaviour. |
A.Avoid being exposed to the polluted air constantly. |
B.Be mindful of the air quality in a new city. |
C.Measure the brain activity in laboratories. |
D.Stay inside a house as often as possible. |
A.A Role Of Brain Will Be Ruined |
B.Traffic Pollution May Impair Brain Function |
C.A Famous UK University Did A Vital Study |
D.A Source Of Pollution Has Drawn People’s Attention |
2 . Mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, yet it is often ignored in our fast- paced society.
Studies have shown that a person with good mental health lives longer and has a higher quality of life. The effects of positive mental health on the body are plenty, including reducing the risk of diseases and improving overall physical well-being.
Our mental state has a significant impact on relationships. People with good mental health are more likely to be kind and understanding.
Mental health is as essential as physical health in maintaining a fulfilling life. If we run into trouble, don’t keep it to yourself.
A.Turn to friends or families. |
B.They strongly connect with others. |
C.Physical health has been a problem. |
D.So ways to keep positive must be found. |
E.And a clear mind can help make smart choices. |
F.The mind actually needs as much care as the body. |
G.Mental health is vital for keeping emotional balance. |
3 . When delivering medications to patients, one of the most effective methods is direct injection (注射) into the bloodstream using a needle. But this can be an uncomfortable experience, especially for kids or adults with a fear of needles. While patients do have the option to take oral pills instead, drugs containing large molecules (分子) are not absorbed effectively this way.
Now, inspired by octopus suckers (章鱼吸盘), researchers from China and Switzerland have designed a needle-free alternative: a tiny, drug-filled, cup-like patch (贴片) that sticks to the inside of the cheeks. The device is easily accessible, and it can be removed at any time and the drug gets absorbed through the lining of the inner cheek, the team reports in a paper in Science Translational Medicine.
To test the design, the team 3D printed the suckers. They loaded each with the drug and stuck them inside the cheeks of three beagles, a kind of dog which has a similar inner cheek lining to humans. For comparison, they also delivered the drug to beagles via a pill. After three hours, the team found that drug blood concentrations in dogs with the patch were more than 150 times higher than in the dogs that took a tablet. They also found patches worked effectively for drugs with large molecules.
40 healthy human volunteers self-applied water-filled patches to see how well they would stay on while talking and moving their mouths. After 30 minutes, only five of the 40 patches had fallen off, which was because of improper placement. Most volunteers said they would prefer a patch over injections for daily applications.
Still, the team only tested the patch for a short time so they would need to find out what would happen if it was used repeatedly. They’d also need to determine which drugs would work with the technology: the target is large molecules, such as those used to treat obesity or osteoporosis, but they can’t be too large to fit in the cup.
1. Why do the researchers develop the patch?A.To help patients overcome the fear of needles. |
B.To enable kids to swallow tablets smoothly. |
C.To offer a better way of drug delivery. |
D.To guarantee the efficiency of oral pills. |
A.It is technologically possible to 3D print the patches. |
B.The cheek lining of dogs is similar to that of humans. |
C.Patches fall easily with their mouth movement. |
D.Drugs are absorbed better through patches than pills. |
A.Innovative and profitable. |
B.Effective and user-friendly. |
C.Affordable and accessible. |
D.Flexible and long-lasting. |
A.The related issues to be solved. |
B.The risk of using patches repeatedly. |
C.The way to identity large molecules. |
D.The trouble of improving the technology. |
4 . Harry Burleigh headed into the woods for a camping trip with his fishing equipment. A few days later, his wife Stacy grew
Stacy called the
On May 15, the rescuers finally caught a break when they
“This was the
A.excited | B.concerned | C.annoyed | D.puzzled |
A.authorities | B.hospital | C.agencies | D.family |
A.hesitantly | B.instantly | C.secretly | D.suddenly |
A.news | B.hope | C.sign | D.wonder |
A.spotted | B.offered | C.sought | D.constructed |
A.turned down | B.depended on | C.called in | D.cut off |
A.equipment | B.break | C.food | D.path |
A.bought | B.left | C.presented | D.fetched |
A.fire | B.bed | C.video | D.face |
A.river | B.chance | C.team | D.shelter |
A.hunting | B.exploring | C.walking | D.marching |
A.Amused | B.Awkward | C.Upset | D.Relieved |
A.cause | B.outcome | C.award | D.evaluation |
A.determined | B.tolerant | C.disciplined | D.flexible |
A.affect | B.instruct | C.encourage | D.reunite |
5 . How to improve your immune(免疫) health
As the temperatures drop and flu and cold season approaches, we need to start thinking about looking after our immune health.
The relationship between smoking and/or excessive alcohol consumption and harmful immune-related health effects is well documented. Avoid breathing in any material that might be harm to the lungs, including vaping(电子烟). Try to reduce risky materials such as alcohol as these have a negative impact on immune health.
Get seven to nine hours restorative sleep every day
There is strong evidence that sleep improves immune defence. Try to aim for between seven and nine hours of good quality, restorative sleep every night. Improving sleep often starts by focusing on your daily habits, routines and bedroom environment.
Stress less and spend more time with others
Stress promotes inflammation(炎症) and reduces your defence against infection. Meditation, a gratitude practice, yoga or breathwork can all help lower levels of cortisol, the main stress hormone.
Be physically active every day
A.Take exercise each day |
B.It is important to seek advice |
C.Avoid smoking and reduce alcohol |
D.Develop a relaxing bedtime routine |
E.Relationships also play a key role in our health |
F.Regular exercise improves health and lowers blood pressure |
G.This means enjoying a diet based around fruit and vegetables |
6 . When you walk in a Chinese city early in the morning, you’re likely to see groups of people exercising in the park. You’ll see them moving through a series of slow graceful movements. As their bodies flow from one exercise to the next, their minds are focused only on their deep, relaxed breathing.
Tai chi is part of national cultural heritage (遗产) which Chinese people take pride in. This ancient mind-body exercise is known as tai chi, and you don’t have to live in China to benefit from it. According to a survey in 2007, more than 2 million Americans are currently practicing tai chi.
Tai chi is called a mind-body type of exercise because it combines meditation, focused breathing, and physical movement. Because it’s also a low-impact (低强度的) exercise, it may be particularly suitable for older adults, but it’s a beneficial exercise for people of all ages.
Tai chi developed in China as a type of martial art. Today tai chi is used to develop fitness, meditation, balance, breathing, and well-being.
If tai chi is something you might like to try, look for a tai chi class near you. Keep in mind that training programs are different in many ways. You might want to ask around for a recommendation or try a class before you sign up. Ask potential tai chi instructors about their training and experience.
Tai chi is generally considered a low-risk exercise that is both safe and enjoyable. If you have any physical or medical problems, talk with your health care provider before starting any exercise program. And remember, although tai chi has many benefits, it can’t take the place of regular medical care.
1. Why does the author give the example in paragraph 1?A.To describe a scene. |
B.To introduce the topic. |
C.To summarize the text. |
D.To guide the readers around the city. |
A.Some foreigners are interested in tai chi. |
B.Tai chi makes people happy, wise and energetic. |
C.Chinese people don’t take tai chi seriously now. |
D.Tai chi was considered a way to lengthen one’s life. |
A.Hard training. | B.Deep thinking. |
C.Body stretching. | D.Violent exercising. |
A.Old people. | B.The patients. |
C.Young people. | D.People of all ages. |
A.Different Schools of Tai Chi around the World. |
B.Tai Chi—a National Heritage and Wonderful Exercise. |
C.Chinese Martial Arts—the Origin and Forms of Tai Chi. |
D.The Advantages and Disadvantages of Practicing Tai Chi. |
7 . Simple Ways to Relax during the Day
Most people are living a hectic(繁忙的)life in a hectic world today. Everything seems to be “go, go, go” . There is little time to stop and relax. This is stressful enough, but if you add an additional stress such as a mistake at work or your child getting in trouble at school, things can quickly spiral out of control.
Take a deep breath. Deep breathing exercises are one of the most relaxing things you can do.
Go for a walk.
Have a cup of hot drink. Herbal tea is delicious and the warming feeling can take the edge off even the worse day. Choose a tea that is caffeine free and has a flavor that you really enjoy such as blueberry or peppermint.
A.Relax each muscle of your body. |
B.Clear your mind of all the pressure. |
C.It centers you and brings you back into the moment. |
D.You should take time to enjoy the scenery around you. |
E.You can try to get yourself motivated in different ways. |
F.Regular exercise can relieve anxiety and help you keep your cool. |
G.There are ways to get a handle on stress and relax a little during the day. |
8 . No one can resist the temptation (诱惑) of snacks. But at the same time, you may be underestimating how many calories a snack contains. What would happen if you had a bag of crisps (炸薯片) a day? Eating an extra packet of crisps a day could lead to a weight gain of 6. 35 kg after a year, The Times reported.
People underestimate the number of calories in their snacks, with experts warning that eating a bag of crisps every day could lead to a stone of weight gain in a year. A survey of around 2 ,000 adults found that about three quarters underestimated the impact of what a small reduction could have. One in ten believed that cutting 200 calories a day would not affect weight. At the same time, many people didn’t seem to know exactly how many calories were in their snacks. When it came to snacks, people struggled, with 95 percent guessing that half a sharing bag of tortilla chips had 214 calories on average, almost half the true figure of 447.
Can’t we resist buying snacks? The food environment is to blame. Even though we all know snacking is bad for our health, we can’t help but fill our shopping carts with snacks.Don’t always blame yourself for poor self- control, and supermarket shelves also have to carry this “pot” half.
Hugo Harper, head of Nesta’s health team, said the pressure to resist high-calorie snacks should not be put on consumers and that our food environment needed. to be changed, He said,“Our environment has a real impact on what we eat, from advertisements and supermarket promotions to what ‘s available in our local corner shops.
Hugo added,“If we had fewer cues to snacks, or were pushed to buy fewer high calorie snacks, we should be able to see real change.”New rules coming into force next month will restrict promotions on foods high in fat, sugar and salt in big shops.
1. What does the author intend to do in paragraph 1?A.List some reasons. | B.Introduce the topic. |
C.Put up an argument. | D.Raise a question. |
A.One in ten people cut 200 calories a day. |
B.Many people knew how many snacks they ate. |
C.No one knew the calories the snacks contained. |
D.Most people lacked the awareness of snacks’ impact. |
A.The food environment. | B.Living conditions. |
C.Consumption ability. | D.Supermarket management. |
A.A packet of crisps contains many calories |
B.People can resist the temptation of snacks |
C.The harm of snacks is beyond your imagination |
D.2,000 adults got involved in a consumption survey |
9 . There’s a lot you can do to keep your eyes healthy and protect your vision.
Get a comprehensive eye exam
Getting an eye exam is simple and painless--and it’s the single best thing you can do for your eye health! Even if your eyes feel healthy, you could have a problem and not know it. That’s because many eye diseases don’t have any symptoms or warning signs. An eye exam is the only way to check for many eye diseases early on when they re easier to treat.
Find out if you’re at risk for eye diseases
Getting older increases your risk of some eye diseases. You might also have a higher risk of some eye diseases if you are overweight or have a family history of eye diseases.
Other health conditions, like diabetes (糖尿病) or high blood pressure, can also increase your risk of some eye diseases. For example, people with diabetes are at risk for diabetic retinopathy-- an eye condition that can cause vision loss.
If you’re worried you might be at risk for some eye diseases, talk to your doctor. You may be able to take steps to lower your risk.
Take care of your health
Protecting your overall health can go a long way toward keeping your eyes healthy! It’s important to make healthy choices and take good care of yourself.
Keep in mind that healthy habits like eating well and being active can lower your risk of diseases and conditions that can lead to eye or vision problems, like diabetes or high blood pressure.
1. Why are people recommended to get an eye exam?A.Eye diseases have many symptoms. | B.Many eye diseases are hard to treat. |
C.Eye diseases have different types. | D.Many eye diseases are unnoticeable. |
A.Being physically inactive. | B.Having a medical condition. |
C.Not having an eye exam. | D.Having a mental disease. |
A.Health. | B.Science. |
C.Education. | D.Entertainment. |
10 . The Health Benefits of Music
Music can have a big impact on your mental health.
It improves the cardiovascular (心血管的) health. Good music may just help your heart to be healthier.
It boosts your immune system. With cold and flu season on the horizon, you may want to make sure you’ve got all your favorite songs downloaded.
It helps you sleep better.
It’s safe to say the next time you need a little pick-me-up, turning on your favorite tune is the smartest option—and the healthiest, too!
A.It enhances your performance. |
B.It might help improve your creativity. |
C.Over 30% of Americans suffer from poor sleep. |
D.There has been a link found between heart health and classical music. |
E.It can make you relaxed, increase your focus and help you deal with stress. |
F.Some studies have found that music can change how people look at their lives. |
G.Studies have found that listening to music helps to prevent infection and illness. |