Time: 15:00
Passage 1 of 4
1. The gut microbiota
2. Mental health issues may be linked to gut microbiota imbalances because of
3. The text ___ strategies like probiotics and prebiotics for gut health.
4. The connection between gut health and mental health ___ in the text.
5. To maintain a healthy gut microbiota, the text suggests
6. Immunotherapy ___ traditional cancer treatments.
7. The challenges of immunotherapy include
8. The text ___ using biomarkers in cancer immunotherapy.
9. CAR-T cell therapy involves
10. To make immunotherapy more accessible, the text suggests
11. Antibiotic resistance has led to
12. One factor contributing to antibiotic resistance is
13. The text ___ bacteriophage therapy as a potential solution to resistance.
14. Efforts to combat antibiotic resistance include
15. Community awareness about antibiotic use is presented as
16. Sleep deprivation ___ the immune system.
17. Cytokines released during sleep are vital for
18. The text ___ the importance of good sleep hygiene for health.
19. Chronic sleep loss is linked to
20. To improve sleep hygiene, the text suggests

Passage 5

The human gut microbiota is composed of trillions of microorganisms that play a vital role in maintaining health. These microorganisms are involved in digesting food, synthesizing essential nutrients, and regulating the immune system. Disruptions to the gut microbiota, often caused by poor diet, excessive use of antibiotics, or stress, have been linked to various conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Emerging research suggests that gut health is intricately connected to mental health through the gut-brain axis, a bidirectional communication system between the gut and the brain. Imbalances in gut microbiota can influence mood, cognition, and behavior, potentially contributing to mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety.

Interventions to support gut health, including probiotics, prebiotics, and dietary modifications, are gaining prominence in both preventive and therapeutic healthcare. These approaches underline the importance of personalized strategies in fostering optimal health outcomes.

Passage 6
Cancer immunotherapy, which harnesses the body’s immune system to combat cancer, has revolutionized oncology. Unlike conventional treatments like chemotherapy and radiation, immunotherapy targets cancer cells more selectively, reducing collateral damage to healthy tissues. Key approaches include immune checkpoint inhibitors, which enhance the immune response, and CAR-T cell therapy, which modifies a patient’s T cells to attack cancer cells more effectively.
Despite its success, immunotherapy presents challenges. Some patients do not respond to these treatments, and others experience severe side effects. High costs and the complexity of manufacturing therapies further limit widespread accessibility.
Researchers are exploring biomarkers to predict patient responses, aiming to refine and personalize immunotherapy strategies. These advancements promise to extend the benefits of this innovative treatment to more patients while improving outcomes.

Passage 7
Antibiotic resistance is a growing global threat to public health. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics have accelerated the emergence of resistant bacteria, rendering many once-effective treatments obsolete. Infections caused by multidrug-resistant organisms are more difficult and expensive to treat, leading to prolonged hospital stays and higher mortality rates.
The problem is compounded by the slow development of new antibiotics, as pharmaceutical companies face significant scientific and financial hurdles. Efforts to address resistance include the implementation of antimicrobial stewardship programs, stricter regulations on antibiotic use, and increased funding for research into alternative therapies such as bacteriophage therapy.
Community awareness and education also play vital roles in combating antibiotic resistance. Simple measures like completing prescribed antibiotic courses and avoiding unnecessary antibiotic use can help curb the spread of resistance.

Passage 8
Sleep is a critical determinant of overall health, particularly in maintaining a robust immune system. Studies show that sleep deprivation impairs the body’s ability to fight infections, making individuals more susceptible to illnesses like colds and the flu. During sleep, the immune system releases cytokines, proteins essential for combating inflammation and infections.
Chronic sleep loss has been associated with increased risks of chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and depression. It also hinders the efficacy of vaccines by reducing the body’s ability to generate a strong immune response.
Improving sleep hygiene, including maintaining consistent sleep schedules, avoiding screens before bedtime, and managing stress, is crucial for strengthening immunity and overall health. Medical practitioners are increasingly recommending better sleep practices to enhance patient outcomes.