20. The extent to which social media platforms influence public opinion and shape political behavior remains a subject of (A) considerable debate among researchers who study the long-term effects of digital communication on democracy institutions. (B) (C) (D) III. Cloze: Choose the answer that best fills in the blank. 10% (2 for each question) Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have become increasingly popular among investors seeking efficient access to financial markets. Unlike traditional mutual funds, ETFs can be bought and sold throughout the trading day on stock exchanges. This feature allows investors to respond more quickly to changing market conditions. __(21)__ , ETFs combine the flexibility of individual stocks with the diversification typically associated with investment funds. Rather than concentrating on a single company or asset, many ETFs hold a broad range of securities. Some track major market indexes, while others focus on specific industries, geographic regions, or investment themes. This approach enables investors to reduce exposure to company-specific risks. __(22)__ diversification can help lower risk, it cannot completely protect investors from broad market declines. In addition to diversification, ETFs are often known for their relatively low operating costs. Because many ETFs follow predetermined indexes, they require less active management than traditional mutual funds. This cost efficiency has __(23)__ to their growing popularity among long-term investors and retirement savers. Nevertheless, investors should carefully evaluate the objectives and composition of each fund before investing. Different ETFs may hold different underlying assets and employ different strategies. Understanding how a fund is managed and what factors influence its performance can help investors make more __(24)__ decisions. Some specialized ETFs even use complex investment strategies, which may __(25)__ both potential gains and potential losses, causing investment outcomes to become more extreme during periods of market uncertainty.

30. Which of the following best expresses the main idea of the passage? (A) Ebola outbreaks can be eliminated solely through medical treatment. (B) International organizations should assume full responsibility for public health emergencies. (C) The current Ebola outbreak highlights the importance of coordinated action, adequate resources, and community cooperation. (D) Previous Ebola outbreaks offer little information that can be applied to current disease-control efforts. Passage 2 CRISPR has transformed biological research by providing scientists with a highly precise method for modifying genetic material. Although it is now widely associated with gene editing, the technology originated from a natural defense mechanism found in certain microorganisms. By combining a guiding RNA molecule with specialized enzymes, researchers can locate and alter specific DNA sequences with remarkable accuracy. The technology has attracted considerable attention because of its medical applications. In recent years, CRISPR-based therapies have received approval for treating some inherited blood disorders. Unlike traditional treatments that mainly reduce symptoms, these therapies aim to correct the genetic abnormalities responsible for disease. Early clinical studies have reported encouraging results, with many patients experiencing long-lasting improvements in health. Beyond medicine, CRISPR has influenced several other fields. Researchers have applied it to agriculture to develop crops that can better withstand environmental challenges. In addition, CRISPR-related tools have been adapted for early disease detection, demonstrating value not only in treatment but also in diagnosis. Nevertheless, the technology continues to generate ethical debate. Some scientists believe that gene editing could eventually prevent serious inherited disorders before they develop. Others argue that altering human genetic material may create unforeseen consequences and raise concerns about fairness and social inequality. As CRISPR technology advances, many experts emphasize that scientific innovation should be accompanied by careful oversight and responsible regulation.

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