Southern Utah News Articles
Kane County featured on KJZZ 'Discovery Road' TV Show this Saturday and Sunday
The latest episode of the KJZZ television show, “Discovery Road,” features stories from Kane County, with two airings this weekend. The first show will be on Saturday, July 20, at 11 a.m. and the second showing is on Sunday, July 21, at 4 p.m.
Discovery Road takes viewers “on a journey reminiscent of the Sunday drives once popular all across America,” said show producer James Nelson.
The show uses music, storytellers, characters, Utah’s history, combined with scenery and culture, to present an entertaining and educational show in the communities visited across Utah.
The show is presented by the Mormon Pioneer National Heritage Area, Center for Education, Business, and the Arts (CEBA), Kane County Office of Tourism, and the Kane County Film Commission.
“Discovery Road” is a primetime travel show airing each week on KJZZ television, Channel 14.


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Community visit reports 2015
These reports profile the Commission’s 2015 visits to:
- Far West NSW PDF 1.5 MB
- Southern NSW PDF 1.5 MB
- Mid North Coast PDF 582 KB
Galambila Aboriginal Medical Service Report PDF 2 MB
- Murrumbidgee PDF 800 KB
Watch videos from the community visits on our YouTube channel.
In 2013, the Mental Health Commission of NSW (the Commission) held a series of forums with communities in Broken Hill, Kempsey, Tamworth, Nowra and Dubbo in order to understand more about the particular needs and experiences of people with mental illness who live outside metropolitan areas. The feedback from the forums informed the Commission’s subsequent recommendations for the reform of the mental health system.
Since those initial forums, the Commission has completed Living Well: A Strategic Plan for Mental Health in NSW 2014-2024 (Living Well). The NSW Government has accepted all the 141 recommendations for mental health reform it describes and a Mental Health Reform Implementation Task Force has been established. The high-level team is chaired by the Secretary of NSW Health and includes senior representatives from all major government agencies referred to in Living Well, including Family and Community Services, Education and Justice. In summary, stage two of reform, action and implementation, has begun.
In mid-2015, the Commission returned to regional NSW to visit towns including Broken Hill, Wagga Wagga, Griffith, Coffs Harbour, Kempsey, Queanbeyan, Goulburn and Bega to gauge and promote awareness of Living Well at the Local Health District (LHD) level, and to learn about any early steps towards mental health reform. The Commission was keen to hear about inspiring examples of excellence in person-focused, recovery-oriented mental health care. It was also interested to hear about barriers to change as government agencies, non-government organisations (NGOs), clinicians and other stakeholders look for better ways to work together to provide timely, person-centred care for people living with mental illness.
- Annual Reports
- Reports and resources
- Health Justice Partnerships in New South Wales: Position Paper
- Stigma and discrimination in NSW
- The effectiveness of services led or run by consumers in mental health: Rapid review of evidence for recovery-orientated outcomes
- Mental health and wellbeing strategy for first responder organisations in NSW
- One year on
- Physical health and mental wellbeing: an evidence guide
- Proposed Suicide Prevention Framework for NSW
- Community visit reports 2015
- Living Well: A Strategic Plan for Mental Health in NSW 2014-2024
- Medication and Mental Illness: Perspectives
- The NSW NDIS and Mental Health Analysis Partnership Project
- Support in tough times
- Living Well: Putting people at the centre of mental health reform in NSW: A Report
- Mental health and homelessness report
- The costs and benefits of interventions in the area of mental health: a rapid review
- The evidence on the costs and impacts on the economy and productivity due to mental ill health: a rapid review
- Living well in our community - Paper 1
- Review NSW Institute of Psychiatry
- Accessible data

domain: sociology


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Introducing virgil’s aeneid review the full course description and key and the earliest attempt to write epic poetry in latin was a translation of the. Homer's ancient epic poem the iliad a period that was to witness a flowering of latin literature the poet virgil wrote the aeneid to honor. Aeneid has 1,299 ratings and 51 reviews i read this book in latin and i must say virgil is it really expanded my idea of poetry because it is an epic poem. Called the best poem by the best poet, virgil's aeneid is perhaps latin or much experience of epic might of the poem —blaise nagy, harvard review. Let's review greek roman portraits women in latin epic laird, andrew 2003 roman epic theatre reception, performance and the poet in virgil's aeneid.
“i sing of arms and the man ” so begins the aeneid, greatest of western epic poems virgil’s story of the journey of aeneas has been a part of our. So begins the aeneid, greatest of western epic poems translator of latin poetry, his translations of virgil’s eclogues and georgics review: 48 out of 5. This beautifully produced edition of the aeneid will be eagerly sought by readers there are twelve books in the epic, much-loved poem and virgil's aeneid. Aeneid summary virgil summary of the poem the aeneid is an epic and turn his words and style into a celebration of both the roman nation and the latin. Virgil’s aeneid and the history of english poetry now seems a good time to review the history of this very roman poem in virgil’s epic went on to. Form and structure the aeneid is an epic poem written in 12 books and is modeled in part on the great greek epic poems, on homer's iliadand odyssey, and on.
Write a review aeneid epic i struggled with virgil's complex poetry as a 4th year latin student and have no idea if mandelbaum gets it right. Virgil, epic poet of the aeneid, dies milan, rome, and naples, where he mastered greek, latin martin luther king by trevor mcdonald review. In addition to his epic poem aeneid, virgil’s ecolgues (bucolics) and georgics are recognized as major works of latin and i want to review the aeneid.
A basic level guide to some of the best known and loved works of prose, poetry and drama from ancient greece - the aeneid by vergil (virgil. The aeneid is an epic poem written by the roman poet virgil princess lavinia is betrothed to a latin warlord named the aeneid by virgil related study. Aeneid: aeneid, latin epic poem written from about 30 to 19 bce by the roman poet virgil composed in hexameters, about 60 lines of which were left unfinished at his. In the epic, virgil repeatedly a legacy as the greatest poet in the latin of expression as homeric epic poetry the aeneid shares with the.
Start studying the iliad, the odyssey, and aeneid learn an epic poem written by latin poet virgil describing the adventure of aeneas as he and his fellow. In “secondary epic,” he reproaches, with “no, virgil for which latin poetry is for which the aeneid is justly famous is virgil’s description. Get this from a library the aeneid [virgil robert fitzgerald] -- virgil's epic poem describing the fall of troy, in english blank verse by robert fitzgerald. [virgil’s] aeneid economical line-for-line translation of the aeneid like vergil’s latin virgil's remarkable epic has been required.
Start studying the aeneid learn vocabulary -they were pastoral poems what was the aeneid written in what did virgil have to prove through his epic. Amazoncouk: virgil aeneid latin the aeneid of virgil: being the latin text in the original order epic poetry ancient. Virgil: virgil, roman poet, best known for his national epic, the aeneid you can make it easier for us to review and.
Read the aeneid (annotated) by virgil with rakuten kobo the aeneid is a latin epic poem, composed by virgil between 29 and 19 bc, that tells the legendary story of. So begins the aeneid, greatest of western epic poems translator of latin poetry, his translations of virgil’s eclogues and reviews right now please. Virgil’s ‘the aeneid’ still looks strikingly contemporary working on “the aeneid,” his epic account of the trojan latin was studied, virgil’s. The central text in the canon of latin literature is virgil’s aeneid, an epic poem in introduction to virgil and ancient epic poetry customer reviews.
The aeneid (/ᵻˈniːɪd/ latin: aeneis ) is a latin epic poem, written by virgil between 29 and 19 bc, that tells the legendary story of aeneas, a trojan who. Nicholas lezard's choice aeneid vi by seamus heaney review this stirring translation of the best book in the latin epic poem from virgil's aeneid to.

domain: library


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Bandai Namco Entertainment has announced a brand new RPG based on the hit manga and anime One Piece by Eiichiro Oda. Titled One Piece Odyssey, this new RPG (guided by Oda himself) was revealed during a special One Piece livestream and is scheduled for release on Xbox Series X/S and Playstation 4/5 and PC this year. This coincides with the Manga’s 25th anniversary. Enjoy the new announcement trailer and interview with producer Katsuaki Tsuzuki below…
For those unfamiliar with One Piece, the story is about a group of pirates known as the Straw Hats led by a young man called Monkey D. Luffy. Leading his small but strong crew, Luffy seeks to become the King of the Pirates by finding the fabled One Piece treasure. This isn’t that simple a task however as enemy pirates, warlords and the marines stand in his way and each new obstacle resulting in the Straw Hat pirates becoming stronger.
One Piece Odyssey will be an authentic and canon adventure that retains the humour and chemistry of the anime series and follows the Straw Hat pirates to a mysterious island. Taking on the roles of nine of their favourite pirates, Monkey D. Luffy, Roronoa Zoro, Nami, Franky, Sanji, Usopp, Nico Robin, TonyTony Chopper and Brook, players will tackle quests and powerful enemies and bosses in turn-based battles. Also joining them on this original adventure will be a brand new character, the cheerful and towering Adio.
“We are happy to be joining the celebration of the 25th anniversary of One Piece with the release of One Piece Odyssey,” said Katsuaki Tsuzuki, Producer at Bandai Namco Entertainment Inc. “We have been teaming up with ILCA Inc. and have been working hard in collaboration with Eiichiro Oda to create a great adventure drama that touches the world of One Piece in a game that we hope will surpass players expectations.”
Eiichiro Oda himself said, “It felt like I was watching a MOVIIIE!!! What incredible immersion!!”
One Piece Odyssey is scheduled for release later this year.

domain: hobby


Southend Council is to spend £75,000 altering hundreds of seafront parking bays following a barrage of criticism from motorists.Yup, that'll be these bays. The ones the council were insisting were for our protection.
The bays, originally at right angles to the road, were changed so they slanted away from oncoming traffic, forcing motorists to drive past them, then reverse in.And there was a big hoo-ha and the council insisted that they were obeying Dept of Transport guidelines and sorry, guv, nuffink we can do, right?
At the time, the council claimed the new layout was safer, but the majority of drivers – forced to stop on the busy road and reverse against the flow of traffic – disagreed.
Yesterday, the council confirmed it would be changing the layout so the bays faced the other way, allowing motorists to drive straight into a bay.Which is presumably going to account for most of that eye-watering 'Ooops, we goofed!' sum.
Mark Flewitt, Tory Southend councillor responsible for transport and planning, said work would start within days. A new zebra crossing, extra disabled parking bays and a taxi rank would be added at the same time.
Which perhaps should come out of the pocket of the person responsible for ploughing ahead in the first place in the teeth of so much opposition, eh? Who was that, anyway?
Oh. Of Course. Southend Council's one-woman disaster area:I think the safest thing Southend Council could do in future is the opposite of whatever this woman thinks is a good idea....
Senior Tory councillor Anna Waite was responsible for transport and planning when the slanted bays were first marked out.A little mea culpa, Anna?
She said: “The layout was the Department For Transport recommendation for a road with a 30mph limit.
“It was also what our officers recommended to me, since we didn’t want to lower the speed limit on that bit of road.
“The council said at the time it would review the arrangement, after a season, which is what we are doing. I suspect the average speed along there is already below 30 mph, but I hope whatever decision is made considers all the safety aspects.”


GOP's heartless pandemic plan to cut unemployment benefits
After two months of foot-dragging, Senate Republicans on Monday unveiled a heartless and irresponsible cut to weekly emergency unemployment benefits that demonstrates that they still don't understand the gravity of the pandemic.
With coronavirus cases surging across much of the nation, Congress should be encouraging non-essential workers to stay home and helping them pay their bills. Instead, the compromise Senate Republicans hammered out with the Trump administration seems designed to force another premature reopening of the economy.
The paltry benefits Senate Republicans propose would leave millions of unemployed Americans unable to pay their bills. It would be great if we could get them all back to work, but, in large part due to the failure of the Trump administration, we still don't have adequate testing capacity to safely do so.
This is a time when we should be rallying as a nation to ensure everyone has a roof over their head, funds to pay their utility bills and food to feed their families. Instead, the Republican plan would lead to widespread poverty -- especially endangering those already living mostly on the margins.
In March, Congress approved a $2.2 trillion stimulus bill that included supplemental federal unemployment benefits of $600 per week on top of the smaller benefits provided by individual states. But those federal benefits expire this week.
House Democrats in May approved another $3 trillion coronavirus relief plan that included provisions to extend the current unemployment benefits until Jan. 31. But Senate Republicans and President Trump were unable to agree until last weekend on their counterproposal.
While both plans have many other important provisions that will be dissected in the days ahead, unemployment benefits are the primary feature for ensuring families can financially survive during the pandemic.
The $1 trillion GOP plan calls for cutting the supplemental benefits by two-thirds, to $200 a week, for two months. Then, the combined state and federal benefits would be set at 70% of a worker's salary.
Calculating unemployment benefits based on a worker's salary makes sense and is how they are traditionally provided. But back in March, when Democrats proposed setting benefits at 100% of salary, they were told that many states' antiquated computer systems could not handle it.
The flat $600 was a compromise. It resulted in many low-income workers receiving more in unemployment benefits than they were earning on the job. Republicans see this as a work disincentive.
In normal economic times that would be a legitimate concern; it's misplaced when the nation faces soaring unemployment and should be keeping people home to slow the spread of the coronavirus. And, if you want to stimulate the economy, there's no better way to do that than by putting money in the hands of those with the lowest income, who are most likely to spend it.
That said, the bigger issue is the amount of the unemployment benefits Republicans are now proposing, as a flat federal supplement of $200 a week and then as a combined state and federal total of 70% of salary. Neither is adequate to stave off widespread poverty. Many low-income workers were barely making ends meet before the pandemic; expecting them to do so at 70% of their past income is just cruel.
So is the game of chicken Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has been playing with their lives. For months, he refused to discuss a new relief package. Now, as supplemental unemployment benefits are expiring, he and the president are offering crumbs as a replacement.


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The Oforikrom Municipal Assembly in partnership with the Ghana AIDS Commission has organized a sensitization and training workshop for the Municipal AIDS committee and Religious Leaders in the Municipality to further enlighten them about the HIV/AIDS in the community on 23rd October, 2020..
In an exclusive interview after a successful sensitization workshop, the Municipal Chief Executive for Oforikrom Municipality Hon. Gloria Temmah Gambrah used this platform to advise the need for people in the community to adopt the habit of regular checkups for their HIV/AIDS status.
She again explained the need for such important sensitization workshops for the leaders of our communities to help them also go out to educate and inform the public about the disease HIV/AIDS. This would help reduce the high rate of transmission from one person to another in our various homes, areas and communities.
The workshop which saw numerous leaders of both Muslim and Christian stakeholders as well as other Civil Society Organizations was successful as a team from the Ghana Health Service was present to run free health screening and HIV testing and counseling. (HTC)
The Technical Coordinator for Ghana AIDS Commission in Ashanti Region Mrs. Olivia Graham also sensitized the attendees on the difference between HIV and AIDS and busted a lot of myths surrounding the virus to help people appreciate the subject area.
Advising the public to abstain from stigmatizing persons living with HIV, she emphasized the need to get tested in order for the virus to be managed at an early stage if one tests positive.
She maintained that it was the duty of all present to ensure that the bell sound HIV continue to ring in the ears of the public just as any other disease to help minimize if not eliminate the stigma around the virus.
She again appealed to parents and guardians to educate their wards about the HIV infection and their sexual life which will help reduce the high rate of the viral transmission and premature death in our various communities.


The Patent Pending Padded Vickers Sling combines with the tactical sling capability of the Vickers Sling with the added comfort of a padded rear section. The 2” inline pad doesn’t move up or down the sling and is made from closed-cell foam that won’t separate or gain water weight. The front section with the Quick Adjuster allows the user to instantly lengthen and shorten the sling - quickly transitioning from a “hands-free” carry to a shooting position with a simple pull of the Adjuster.
- 1.25” webbing can be looped through sling swivels, buttstock slots, or combined with sling hardware (available separately)
- Fits standard M4 carbines and other rifles
- Can be mounted upside down (Adjuster to the rear) on traditional bolt action rifles and shotguns for a "muzzle up" carry
- Invista solution dyed CORDURA® webbing
- Patented Quick Adjuster with Contrasting Pull Tab
- Nylon hardware: glass reinforced DuPont Zytel® Nylon
- Metal hardware: anodised machined aluminium adjuster, phosphate steel tri-glides
The Padded Vickers Sling comes in two hardware variations - Nylon and Metal hardware:
The all-new Nylon Hardware version features all newly designed DuPont Zytel® nylon - which is lighter, stronger, and more flexible than traditional plastic sling hardware. The majority of the BFG slings shipped to the US Military feature Nylon Hardware.
The Metal Hardware version of the Padded Vickers Sling features a machined aluminium Adjuster that is hard coat anodised matte black and combined with phosphate steel tri-glides. The Metal Hardware slings provide more strength than will ever be needed in a weapon sling - perfect for those apocalypse guns and the “all metal” type of shooters.


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Austin Tourist Park - Tamworth NSW
Set on nine acres of gardens and trees, the Austin Tourist Park is your home away from home. With all the facilities of a modern park and no traffic noise the Park offers the traveler a quiet and relaxing holiday.
The entrance to the Park has views of the surrounding hills and the camping and caravan area at the back is adjacent to the Peel River with tranquil rural views.
The Park is only 4 kilometers from the center of town and is close to most local tourist attractions and sporting facilities.
Austin Tourist Park is the winner of the 2001 Hugh Diedrich Award in Tourism.
The resident owners are Frank and Christine Edwards. The park is pet friendly. Bookings can be made by telephoning 1800 826 967 and please let the park know that you have seen their photos on Caravan Park Photos.
REGION: > NSW > Regional NSW > North West Slopes > Tamworth
John from Hunter Valley
No changes from previous reports but thought it getting a bit over priced
We will be back if only to visit the pub again, there is nothing spectacular about the park, its old, clean and reasonably maintained with friendly staff.
We have stayed at this Park a number of times. The owners are friendly and are more than helpful. The amenities are clean and modern. There is a Hotel next to the Park and the meals are great, well priced and staff are very friendly. Well worth staying here.
Photos contributed by our users

domain: geography


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4 Ways to Remain Active in the Office
According to recent researches, it has been proven that it is really important to fight inactivity.
Most of the people working in an office have to sit on a chair for a number of hours.
Such a routine can make you a prey for a number of diseases such as heart diseases, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, and metabolic syndrome.
The US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health published a research in 2014 and it declares physical inactivity to be the primary cause of most of the chronic diseases.
But there are a number of things you can do to avoid being a victim of these chronic diseases. Here are 4 ways to be more active in the office.
Start with the Walk
Most of us wake up in the morning pretty late, we are always being late for work, and then we get on a bus or ride to the office straight away.
In order to be more active, you have to start your day a bit earlier.
An early morning walk before going to office would be a great start of the day. Even if that is not a viable option you can walk a part of your way to the office.
In this way, you would be able to include a physical activity in your daily routine.
Approach Your Colleagues
It is a good idea to walk up to your colleagues in case of a query instead of talking to them via Skype.
Take every opportunity to leave your desk for a while and have a chat with the people around you.
In this way, you would not be sitting at your desk for a longer period of time.
Eventually, it will become your habit and you would love to move around in the office instead of sticking with the chair all the time.
All of us have to go to meetings that stretch for hours long sometimes.
Although at times you have to sit with the clients you can have a standing or walking meeting with your colleagues.
In this way, you would also be doing a physical exercise along with talking about the important stuff. It would be a good change for your co-workers too and would definitely encourage more creativity.
If you are unable to act upon all of the 3 suggestion above to remain active in the office you can are still not doomed.
You can fulfill the need of a physical activity for your body by stretching regularly.
Even if you are sitting in your office chair you can move your neck, arms, and legs. Here are few of the exercises you can apply:
- Roll your head from side to side for few minutes and stretch your arms.
- Stretch your legs and try to touch your feet for few times.
- Put your hands on your knees and try to touch them with your chin before moving back to your sitting posture and repeating the process again for few minutes.
If you are able to follow these steps regularly for few days you will feel the difference yourself.
You will be more active and more energetic towards your work.
These small routine changes can pave a way for you to avoid being stressed in the office.
Add more physical activity in your daily routine to avoid the chronic diseases.
Prevention is always better than cure because no matter how much money you have it is impossible to buy health once you have lost it.
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I like the article
Thanks a lot 🙂

domain: medical


OnePlus’ second flagship smartphone of 2018 has gotten off to a rocky start, to say the least. First of all, just about everything there is to know about the OnePlus 6T leaked long before the phone was announced on Monday. Of course, that pretty much goes without saying at this point, since details surrounding flagship phones always leak in advance. The real trouble arrived when it came time to schedule the OnePlus 6T announcement event. First, OnePlus reportedly pushed back its planned unveiling to avoid overlapping with Google’s Pixel 3 launch. Then, after landing on the date October 30th for its big reveal, Apple announced that its October press conference would be held on the same date. Competing with Apple for media coverage is obviously ill-advised, so the company bumped up its event to today, October 29th.
In the grand scheme of things, none of this should matter very much. Launch coverage in the media is important, but it doesn’t typically make or break a product cycle. This is especially true for a company like OnePlus since its customer base consists almost entirely of Android enthusiasts. Needless to say, the overwhelming majority of OnePlus’ customer base won’t care about anything Apple announces tomorrow. They just want to check out the latest and greatest new Android devices, and there’s no question that the new OnePlus 6T should be on every Android fan’s radar.
It’s been a tough few weeks indeed for OnePlus, but it turns out that the company might have already cashed in its karma chips after everything it had to deal with when scheduling today’s press conference. The OnePlus 6T’s biggest competition among hardcore Android fans is definitely the Pixel 3 series, and early adopters are having all sorts of problems with Google’s brand new flagship phones. Google has its work cut out for it in the coming weeks and months as the company looks to address all of the software issues users have encountered. In the meantime, the OnePlus 6T has emerged as a fantastic alternative to Google’s new Pixel phones.
There are a couple of main reasons Android fans buy Pixel phones. One is the class-leading camera, which the OnePlus 6T can’t match. But the other is the “pure” Android experience and quick access to Android updates when Google releases them. OnePlus’ “OxygenOS” has always provided a user experience that’s as close to stock as it gets, and the company has shown that it is committed to providing speedy Android updates moving forward. In fact, it took just 45 days for the OnePlus 6 to be updated to Android Pie earlier this year. OnePlus has also guaranteed at least two years of software updates and three years of security updates for all of its phones.
The OnePlus 6T is fast and powerful just like Google’s Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL, but it also has some nifty new tech that users will definitely find appealing — namely a smaller notch and an in-display fingerprint sensor. Beyond that, a top-of-the line OnePlus 6T with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage still costs $170 less than the cheapest Pixel 3 you can buy. The base OnePlus 6T costs $250 less than the entry-level Pixel 3.
OnePlus didn’t supply the press with review units until just a few days ago, which means I haven’t yet had time to test it thoroughly enough for a full in-depth review. So, in this abridged review, I’ll focus on the 10 best things about the new OnePlus 6T.
Early OnePlus phones weren’t terribly impressive in this all-too-important area, but more recent models have really stepped it up when it comes to display quality. Thankfully, the OnePlus 6T continues the trend.
The new OnePlus 6T is equipped with a 6.41-inch Optic AMOLED screen covered by a sheet of 2.5D Corning Gorilla Glass 6. The screen size is an increase from the 6.28-inch display on the previous-generation OnePlus 6. It’s gorgeous. Colors are bright and vivid, and there are now five different screen calibration modes including default, sRGB, DCI-P3, adaptive, and a custom color more that’s user-configurable. The panel has great contrast as well, and OnePlus’ Night Mode and Reading Mode continue to offer good options for low-light conditions.
The new AMOLED screen on the OnePlus 6T has 2340 x 1080 resolution and a pixel density of 402 pixels per inch, as well as the same 19.5:9 aspect ratio as Apple’s recent iPhones. There’s one thing that the OnePlus 6T doesn’t have from Apple’s new iPhones though, and it’s something that Android fans are going to be ecstatic about.
Apple wasn’t the first smartphone maker to release a handset with a notch cut out of the display. But there’s no question that Apple’s design is the one that just about every Android phone maker on the planet decided to copy. That long list included the OnePlus 6 from earlier this year, which had a large notch at the top of the screen just like Apple’s 2017 iPhone X and all of this year’s new iPhone models.
On its second flagship phone of 2018, OnePlus ditched the iPhone X’s notch and used a display design with a much smaller notch. It’s far better suited to the phone, and probably should have been the design the company used to begin with.
Apple’s iPhone X, iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max have large notches because they house the multi-component TrueDepth camera system that enables Face ID. Meanwhile, OnePlus’ phones don’t have 3D facial recognition, so the OnePlus 6T’s notch only houses a selfie camera and a three-in-one ambient light/distance/RGB sensor. OnePlus is often at the mercy of its sister company Oppo, however, because OnePlus phones use many of the same components and designs as Oppo phones. In the case of the OnePlus 6 and the OnePlus 6T, that list includes the displays.
The bottom line here is that the OnePlus 6T’s notch is much smaller than it was on the OnePlus 6, and it’s not shaped like the notch on the iPhone X. That means avid Android fans won’t hate it anymore. And as was the case with the OnePlus 6 from earlier this year, the notch on the OnePlus 6T can be hidden by going to Settings > Display > Notch Display and selecting “Hide the notch area.”
In-display fingerprint sensor
There’s no question that the OnePlus 6T has a beautiful screen, but the star of the show on the front of the phone has to be the new in-display fingerprint sensor.
With the OnePlus 6T, OnePlus has actually become the first company to launch a phone with an in-display fingerprint sensor in the United States. And while “first” in the smartphone industry often comes at the expensive of a quality experience, I have found that the OnePlus 6T’s fingerprint sensor works quite well. A small area at the bottom of the screen lights up with a fingerprint icon to let you know where to touch in order to scan your print. When you press your finger on that spot, the screen glows green behind it so the optical sensor can read your print. A brief animation is also displayed around your finger as the phone unlocks.
When I first set it up, I did have some issues with performance. Some scans would be lightning-fast — OnePlus says its in-display sensor reads a print and unlocks in 0.34 seconds — while others would be quite slow and take well over a second. After discussing it with OnePlus, I was told that the phone’s software adapts over time and can take a day or two to optimize. A company spokesperson’s advice was to press a bit firmer for the first couple of days, and I found that unlocks were consistently fast when I took that advice. If you plan to buy yourself a OnePlus 6T, you should do the same.
OnePlus has never really been known for its smartphone designs, and there’s a good reason for that: several of its smartphones have merely been copycats of other more popular phones. The OnePlus 5 was likely the worst offender since it was a carbon copy of the iPhone 7 Plus, but the company has also copied HTC’s designs on several occasions.
The OnePlus 6T isn’t an iPhone copy or an HTC copy. In fact, it might be one of the company’s most unique designs if you discount the fact that it’s a spitting image of the Oppo R17, since OnePlus has shared hardware designs with its sister company for the past few years. The hardware is high-quality though, with a sturdy aluminum chassis sandwiched between a 2.5D glass front and a curved glass back. The finish of the glass back on the Midnight Black model I got to review is very sharp. It’s a matte black that looks and feels like ceramic, and the finish matches the coated aluminum around the edges of the phone.
I’m also a huge fan of the new smaller notch, and the thinner chin bezel is much appreciated as well. OnePlus says that despite having a thinner chin bezel than its predecessor, the antenna components that occupy the space behind the chin bezel in the OnePlus 6T actually outperforms its predecessor and every other OnePlus phone. The OnePlus 6T also supports more bands than any OnePlus phone before it, and is the first to be certified for use on Verizon’s network.
Apart from the display and the larger battery in the OnePlus 6T, the specs are roughly the same as they were in the OnePlus 6 from earlier this year. Here’s a full breakdown:
It might seem odd to release a new phone with specs that are almost the same as its predecessor, but it’s definitely less of an issue when said predecessor is already insanely fast.
OnePlus has consistently released some of the fastest and most powerful smartphones year in and year out. 2018 has been no different, with the smoking fast OnePlus 6 having been one of the most powerful phones in the world earlier this year. Thanks to Android 9.0 Pie and hundreds of new software optimizations in the latest version of OnePlus’ OxygenOS (version 9.0.3), the OnePlus 6T is even faster and more powerful than its predecessor despite having nearly identical specs. The base model of the phone comes with 6GB of RAM And 128GB of storage, while the upgraded model I reviewed has 8GB of RAM and either 128GB or 256GB of storage.
The OnePlus 6T managed solid GeekBench 4 scores in my tests, with a single core average of 2440 and a multi-core average of 9087. That’s good enough to place it among the top Android phones in the world. In fact, it’s the highest multi-core score we’ve ever seen among globally available Android phones. Of course, it obviously still can’t touch the A12 Bionic-powered iPhone XS, which racks up a single-core score of 4795 and a multi-core score of 11221.
Benchmark tests performed using AnTuTu told more of the same story. The OnePlus 6T cooked up an average score of 295926 in my tests, which once again makes it the most powerful globally available Android phone out there right now. The iPhone XS still bests it by a wide margin, however, having managed a score of 348581 despite having only half as much RAM as the OnePlus 6T.
Apart from top-notch specs, it also helps that OnePlus has made about 500 different optimizations to the software on the OnePlus 6T, so it’s faster and smoother than ever. Of note, each and every one of those optimizations is coming to the OnePlus 6 in future software updates.
As is the case with most of the OnePlus 6T’s specs, the camera hardware on the new model is identical to the OnePlus 6 from earlier this year. Of course, hardware is only half the equation because OnePlus has made all sorts of strides where software and image processing are concerned.
OnePlus says that the OnePlus 6T marks its biggest jump ever where camera software optimization is concerned. In my testing, the camera definitely impressed me. It’s not quite on par with the best in the business — namely the Pixel 3, iPhone XS, and Huawei’s top flagships — but the margins are narrowing. Photos are wonderfully clear and crisp, color reproduction is accurate, and noise has gotten a noticeable reduction. The phone also has a nifty new algorithm that automatically adjusts certain settings when it detects things like faces or food in order to optimize the shot.
OnePlus says new algorithms give photos captured on the OnePlus 6T more detail in both daylight and in low light settings. Portrait mode has improved edge detection, and Google Lens is now more easily accessible with a button near the bottom-left corner in the camera app. A new Nightscape setting has high dynamic range for nighttime landscape shots where scenes are mostly dark but have some lights, such as in buildings. With this new mode, the OnePlus 6T takes up to 10 shots at different exposures over the span of 2 seconds, stabilizing them with optical image stabilization (OIS) the entire time. Detail from all the photos is then combined to form one shot.
Once again, it’s important to note that OnePlus 6 owners won’t be left in the lurch here. Since all of the camera improvements on the OnePlus 6T come in the form of software enhancements and optimizations, they’ll all be made available on the OnePlus 6 in upcoming software updates.
OxygenOS 9 with Android Pie
As I noted earlier in this review, OxygenOS 9 on the OnePlus 6T features 500 software optimizations compared to the previous version of OxygenOS on the OnePlus 6. The OnePlus 6T also gets all of the new features introduced by Google in Android 9.0 Pie, of course, and all of the new camera features I mentioned earlier.
I’ve always been a big fan of OnePlus’ OxygenOS software. OnePlus doesn’t use a heavy hand like Samsung, instead preserving the look and feel of stock Android. OnePlus adds features and settings here and there to enhance the Android experience rather than merely to brand it. It’s a refreshing take and the OnePlus 6T carries it forward nicely.
There are a few noteworthy additions to OxygenOS 9 and the most intriguing is probably a new feature called Smart Boost. This feature analyzes the frequency with which apps are used on the phone, and it keeps the most commonly used apps in the phone’s memory. This way when they’re opened again, they launch faster. OnePlus says Smart Boost results in up to 20% faster app load times, but it’s currently only enabled for games. Additional compatibility is coming in future updates.
While the bulk of the OnePlus 6T’s specs are identical to the OnePlus 6, there are a few things that have been improved. One is the display, which we already covered. The second is the battery.
The OnePlus 6T is a bit taller and thicker than its predecessor, and it’s not just to accommodate the new display design. OnePlus also squeezed a much larger battery inside its new phone. The OnePlus 6T has a 3,700 mAh battery where as the OnePlus 6 from earlier this year has a 3,300 mAh battery. That’s a 12% increase in capacity, and OnePlus says it results in a 22% battery life increase.
Since I’ve only spent a few days with the OnePlus 6T so far, I cannot comment on how it compares to the OnePlus 6. But I can say with confidence that it’ll carry most users through a full day of average usage without a problem.
Last but certainly not least, there’s no question that pricing is one of the best things about the new OnePlus 6T.
OnePlus phones have steadily gotten more expensive over the years, but they always offer tremendous value compared to rivals. That’s as true today as it was when the original OnePlus One was released. The entry-level OnePlus 6T packs 6GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage for $549. To put that in perspective, a Pixel 3 XL with a similar sized screen, similar specs, and 128GB of storage costs $999. Apple doesn’t make a 128GB iPhone XS Max, but the 64GB model costs $1,099. Yes, that means the iPhone XS is literally twice as expensive as the OnePlus 6T. The 256GB version of the iPhone XS Max costs $1,249, while a 256GB OnePlus 6T with 8GB of RAM costs $629.
Here’s how pricing breaks down for the three OnePlus 6T models:
- 6GB of RAM + 128GB of storage: $549
- 8GB of RAM + 128GB of storage: $579
- 8GB of RAM + 256GB of storage: $629
The OnePlus 6T will be available beginning this Thursday, November 1st, and can be purchased directly from OnePlus on its website. Also, for the first time ever, OnePlus has secured a US carrier partner for its new phone. The OnePlus 6T also launches on November 1st at T-Mobile stores and online.
Finally, OnePlus fans in New York City can be among the first in the world to get their hands on the new OnePlus 6T. Today only beginning at 5:00 PM ET, the T-Mobile signature store in Times Square will have the new phone on display and a limited number of handsets will be available for purchase.


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As businesses increasingly try to figure out how to use social networking tools in the enterprise , an IT governance group has released a ranking of the top five risks social media poses to companies.
The study, which lists the biggest risks businesses need to prepare for when they are using social media, was released on Monday by ISACA, a 43-year-old international organization previously known as the Information Systems Audit and Control Association that researches IT governance and control.
John Pironti, an ISACA Certification Committee member, noted that many business executives have considered some of the risks, but few have considered all of them.
“I think that the blinders have been on at a lot of enterprises,” Pironti told Computerworld . “They’re trying to figure out what to do about this. I think companies are as scared as they generally are with any new technology, like Wi-Fi and jump drives.
They’re taking a different attitude this time. They’re not just turning it off but they’re acknowledging that they just can’t stop the use of it. They understand that it’s going to be used so how do they do it safely?” he said.
The top risks, which are laid out in an ISACA research paper , are virusesand malware , brand hijacking and lack of control over corporate content. Rounding out the top five are unrealistic expectations of customer service at “Internet-speed” and non-compliance with record-management regulations.
Pironti said ISACA isn’t warning companies not to use Web 2.0 tools or to not fully embrace social networking. However, he said they need to go into it with their eyes wide open to the benefits as well as the risks.
And he added that most of the risks stem from users not understanding how their own behavior could possibly impact the company. Pironti noted that it comes down to a need for organizations to educate users about how posting something could breach company security, hurt the company’s image or even open the company up to being hit by malware.
“With social media, there are so many platforms and environments to learn,” said Pironti. “What are the implications of what could happen? People don’t think of the damage that could occur to an organization.”
“They see it as a way to explore relationship with work people. We take some of the social out of their lives by asking people to work longer hours. They’re looking for a balance -- to still have a relationship with friends and peers,” Pironti said.
And since workers, either on their own or with a corporate blessing, will use social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter , Pironti said they need to understand the line between social and business. They also need to have set corporate guidelines about what information can be shared what needs to stay inside corporate walls.
However, Pironti said company execs also need to be aware themselves that workers are using social networking sites and tools so they need to have a hand in it to better protect themselves. Executives can’t be aware of what is being said about a company unless someone is paying attention.
Sharon Gaudin covers the Internet and Web 2.0, emerging technologies, and desktop and laptop chips for Computerworld . Follow Sharon on Twitter at @sgaudin or subscribe to Sharon’s RSS feed . Her e-mail address is email@example.com .
Read more about privacy in Computerworld’s Privacy Topic Center.
Original story - here

domain: news


Massive numbers of people now enjoy playing video games. Several games have recently gained enormous popularity that has increased demand for gaming systems. The majority of people believe that buying a high-end gaming laptop requires a significant financial investment. Nonetheless, many inexpensive solutions offer a satisfying gaming experience and offer good value for the money.
If you're planning to purchase a gaming laptop then you may go for laptops that provide 1080p video editing, streaming, and gaming capabilities.
Here are a few gaming laptops which are really awe-inspiring:
HP Victus Gaming Latest AMD Ryzen 7-5800H, FHD Gaming Laptop
The full gaming experience is what the HP Victus laptop is designed for. It has 32 GB RAM upgradeable to a 5th generation AMD Ryzen 7 processor with a 16 GB RSM. Moreover, it includes 512 GB of storage. There is plenty of memory on current memory cards. It boasts modern thermals, a redesigned gaming keyboard, and a variety of color options. There is a temporal noise reduction and an HD camera. It features an elegant and refined design. It has a Li-ion battery that permits fast charging and a 4-cell battery charge.
Specifications: Series - 16-e0351ax, Product Dimensions - 37 x 26.2 x 2.4 cm; 2.48 Kilograms, Processor Type - AMD Ryzen 7 5800H, RAM size - 16 GB
Also read: 5G smartphones within budget to buy in 2023
Acer Aspire 5 Gaming Laptop 12th gen Processor
With the newest 12th generation Intel Core-i5 1240 processor, this powerful laptop enables high-speed computing and offers a more enjoyable gaming experience. Furthermore, in-plane switching technology was used in its construction. It fixes the LCDs' color issues and poor viewing angles so that the gadget can be handled at any angle.
Specifications:Series - A515-57G, Product Dimensions - 23.8 x 36.3 x 1.8 cm; 1.8 Kilograms, Processor Type - core i5, RAM size - 16 GB
Price Rs 61,990
ASUS TUF Gaming A15, FHD 144Hz, AMD Ryzen 7 4800H, 4GB
Its 15.6 "AMD Ryzen processor and durable cooling system are features of the laptop. It contains four heat pipes and three heat sinks that efficiently and swiftly dissipate heat away from your hardware. It maintains the components' low, ideal temperature. Your laptop's cooling is guaranteed to continue for a long time thanks to its self-cleaning cooling architecture. It enables a rich audio experience. Also, it offers a simple update that makes it simple to size up the design's RAM.
Specifications: Product Dimensions- 25.6 x 35.9 x 2.28 cm; 2.3 kg; Series- FA506ICB-HN075W; AMD Ryzen as the type of processor, and 16 GB of Memory
Dell Vostro 3400 Laptop with a 14-inch FHD Display
This laptop looks stylish and allows for speedy processing. You can do your duties without interruptions because of the laptop's potent Intel Core i5-1135G7 CPU, which has a 2.4 GHz clock speed.
Specifications: 14-inch Full HD LED Backlit Anti-Glare display Resolution of the Display: 1920 by 1080 Intel Core i5, 11th Generation, model number 1135G7
Price Rs 60,700
HP Pavilion x360 "2011 Core i3 14-inch
Featuring a 4.1 GHz 11th Gen Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor, this ideal laptop gives you the ability to multitask without any lag or interruptions. The sturdy, full-length, and ergonomically designed Standard Notebook Keyboard on this laptop allows you to work for extended periods of time with maximum convenience.
Specifications: Display: 14 inches Full HD, 1920 x 1080 pixel resolution
Intel® CoreTM i3 11th Gen-1115G4 processor. 4.1 GHz processor speed
Price Rs 75,990
Dell Alienware x15 R1 (2021) Intel i7-11800H FHD Gaming Laptop
This Dell Alienware series features specially designed fans with twice as many blades, which update the Alienware cryo-tech cooling technology. Compared to computers from the previous generation, these are 35.5% slimmer. For a better gaming experience, they extract cold air from the top and bottom vents and force it into the ducts. Also, this graphics series makes it possible to comprehend complicated lighting, realistic settings, and textures in the gaming world.
Specifications: Product Dimensions- 27.7 x 35.9 x 1.6 cm; 2.27 kg; Series- FA506ICB-HN075W; i7 processor type, 16 GB of Memory
Price Rs 268,500


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Fed up of the extra layers and thick socks? Its time to pull out your sunglasses and spring coats as experts forecast that temperatures are set to rise to 17 degrees in the UK this week as gusts from the Azores blow away the cold snap.
So far this year Britain has seen fierce Arctic winds and snow with many facing icy roads and widespread frost where temperatures dropped to as low as minus nine in some places.
But just when we thought the Siberian freeze was going to see us through to May, spring may be coming early as forecasters say some areas could soon see temperatures far above average.
Perhaps we should be getting ready for a BBQ spring.
See our picks for the best of new season dressing with our fashion trends guide.


Here are the waysto prevent corrosion:
- Paint for another layer of coating - Various floor paints are applicable as a solution to corrosion, Make sure to choose the right kind of paint. It must match the type and recent state of the metal. Coatings with oil, grease, and varnish are also advisable to use. Cover the metal surface with the chosen coating or paint to protect it from moisture and air which is one of the leading causes of corrosion.
- Lessen the Environmental Impact - The elements surrounding the metals can immensely affect the metals because it quickly reacts with chemical elements. Hence, it must be located in a place with less moisture, the wind and outside air. This method will decrease the speed of metal corrosion. Limit the contact of the metal from the harmful elements as much as possible by changing the type of the environment.
- Select the right type of metal - There are different kinds of metals that have its characteristics which include the aluminum, a corrosion resistant material. It is the perfect choice for a place exposed to chemicals. The resistance of stainless steel depends on metals used to form it. Some stainless steel finishes are corrosion-resistant. Carbon steel will be less beneficial to use since it will be needing a coating or paint to reduce the chances of corrosion.
- Monitor the state of the metal - Observe the changing condition of the metal as it may contain damages like cracks, crevices, or any flaw. Fixing this problem lowers the probability of corrosion to happen. Keeping the area and the metal clean and eliminating all the odds are effective ways to completely protect it and to lengthen its lifespan.
- Apply solutions and treatment - Coatings, anodization, and galvanization are surface treatments that are highly applicable for corrosion protection. Painting and plating are kinds of coating that can protect the metals against harmful elements. Put a layer of it to the affected area, and it will automatically fix the existing the problems. Anodization is a compelling selection of the metals that are placed to the location with fully exposed chemicals. It will make the material more impervious to the weather condition and corrosion. Galvanization is the process of using a thin layer of Zinc which creates a protective coating on the metal surface.
To be more informed about the ways on how to avoid metal corrosion, it crucial to do some research and seek consultation from a coating expert’s advice . The methods stated above are very recommendable to follow. Keep in mind to always be aware of all the options before taking any action.


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“Take A Little Ride” Earns PLATINUM Certification
NASHVILLE, TN – Jan. 18, 2013 – Award-winning entertainer Jason Aldean added Madison Square Garden to the list of iconic venues to sell out in just minutes on his 2013 NIGHT TRAIN TOUR. Every ticket to his first-ever show at the New York City staple was picked up this morning for the March 2 stop. Jake Owen and Thomas Rhett will open the tour which also includes sold out shows at the University of Georgia’s Sanford Stadium (4/13), a two-night stand at Boston’s Fenway Park (7/12 and 7/13) and Chicago’s Wrigley Field (7/20).
“I think people underestimate country music’s popularity in New York City,” said Aldean. “The Garden is one of those places every artist dreams of playing. I am blown away that my show sold out that quickly… it makes me even more excited to hit rehearsals this month and get the Night Train tour on the road. I can’t wait to see you, New York!”
Additionally, Aldean has received PLATINUM certification for his recent three-week No. one single “Take A Little Ride.” The first single off his PLATINUM, No. one album NIGHT TRAIN, “Take A Little Ride” was Aldean’s highest chart debut, landing in the Top 20 its first week. Aldean’s current single and the follow up to “Take A Little Ride,” the fan-favorite track “The Only Way I Know” feat. Luke Bryan and Eric Church is climbing up the Top Five. The 2013 NIGHT TRAIN TOUR kicks off Feb. 21 in Bossier City, LA.
For a full list of appearances and more information on NIGHT TRAIN, please visit www.jasonaldean.com.
Mary Hilliard Harrington

domain: artistic


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N.Korea carries out tests for missiles: think tank
North Korea has reportedly conducted motor tests to improve its long-range missiles after a failed launch in April.
The US-Korea Institute at Johns Hopkins University said the North appears to have carried out at least two tests of large motors needed for rockets and worked on a launch platform.
The institute examined commercial images of the Sohae satellite launch station between April and September and found that 34 fuel tanks had been moved and vegetation appeared to be burned, next to a flame trench stained with an orange residue.
Nick Hansen, an expert on imagery analysis, said North Korea may step up action after elections in both the United States and South Korea.
North Korea defiantly went ahead with the rocket launch in April, saying it was trying to put a satellite in orbit, but it disintegrated just two to three minutes after blast-off.


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By Joelle Thomas
Planet, hes mine.
I cant believe this is happening, how that bitch of a barmaid is hanging all over him. So what if she was his childhood friend? Shes already had her chance. And he fell into my lap like a shooting star, trailing sunlight, his perfect face kissed with blood...
And his eyes. Oh, sweet Planet, his eyes.
Theyre the reason Im here now, getting cramps in my legs, feeling my lips tremble as I breathe white puffs into the air. Why is it so goddamn cold down here? And all this water why did my ancestors pick this place for a temple? How can I pray when my knees are shaking and my hands are blue?
I cant do this anymore, Planet. Its my turn to be happy. I dont want to sell flowers in the streets while those filthy drunkards leer at me; I want to fall asleep in his arms and wake up breathing his scent. I want to run away with him beyond the edge of time.
I want him, dammit.
And I want her to go away.
Look, Planet, I cant be nice forever. Theres a shadow beneath the flowers, and coiled there is a green-eyed snake. What do they think I am perfect? I cant be anybodys angel. But he could be mine, Planet, with his silken hair... his soft skin... his shining eyes...
Oh, those eyes.
Its just not fair.
I can breathe softly on his cheeks, Planet. I can let my breasts brush his arms, but hes always somewhere else. Someone with her. Every moment he lives five years ago, holding her bloody body and caressing her face and hair. He was her hero then, wasnt he? But she acts as if it never happened, as if he never saved her life, as if she just wants to forget it all.
Planet, why didnt she just die?
Thats cruel to think. I know. But Im tired of being nice. I cant turn the other cheek when my heart is being trampled like so much dirt. Oh, dont worry; Aeris wont mind. Aeris never minds. Shes never unhappy. Hell with that. I giggle and twirl my hair and simper for someone to save me, but I have teeth.
I can snarl.
I can bite.
Does she know that the eye I turn so ingenuously to him is glaring daggers into her?
They want to carry me on their banner like some holy virgin, the gift of heaven. They only see me glowing with the aura of healing magic, turning my smiling face towards the sun. Thats all they want to see. What they never notice are the glaring slits of my eyes when I pray... the lustful parting of my lips when I gaze at his body... the blood that spills when I crush a monsters head with my staff.
I am real, Planet. I am cruel as well as kind, shadow as well as light. But they dont see it. He doesnt see it. And for that reason he will never love me as I want to be loved. No man ever gives his passion to a star; he saves it instead for the flame that blazes and dies in a season. To him I am an ideal to be immortalized in stone, while she is flawed but living flesh.
And its my own goddamn fault.
All I wanted was to be enough for him, Planet. I thought he was perfect. I still think he is. But he doesnt want what I became for him. He has made me into a saint, and I want to spit on their worship. I never wanted to lead them on a quest to save the world. Damn the world. I just wanted to lie beside him and feel an eternal bond form between us, no matter what happens to everything else. Let the universe collapse. Just let me melt into him...
But it wont happen now. I screwed up everything, Planet. Ill always be their child-like Messiah, and theyll always stare at me and whisper in awe.
I wonder what theyd think if they knew that I, the holy Cetra, left to pray for something like this? Perhaps Ill pick a flower and tear off the petals until I get to He loves me not. Then I will wreathe my brow with blossoms and fall into the icy water, singing love ditties until my mouth is filled and my eyes are empty. Maybe Ill feel him in the embrace of the depths
I hear steps now, Planet. My heart quickens. Is he here? Could any two men have the same uncertain gait? The air is colder now in my throat as sounds ring around me: the cry of steel against steel the rush of blood in my ears the muted voices that seem to come from beyond the sea...
I raise my head and let my eyelids part. Sweet Planet, hes beautiful. The curve of his lips, the lines of his body, the shaking hands that hold his sword...
And his eyes...
I smile, wondering if my face betrays the bittersweet hunger that leaves my mouth dry and my limbs weak. Let me tell him, Planet. Let me taste his lips and bury my hands in his hair.
Then let me vanish.
I open my mouth to speak when I hear a rush of air overhead.
Joelle Thomas' Fanfiction

domain: literature


text:
- What yogurt is best for dogs?
- How do you treat leaky gut in dogs?
- Why does my dog eat grass?
- How do I give my dog probiotics?
- Can I give my dog yogurt as a probiotic?
- Can dogs take probiotics daily?
- Is peanut butter good for dogs?
- Do probiotics help dog diarrhea?
- Are probiotics for dogs the same as for humans?
- What does Proviable do for dogs?
- Is pumpkin a probiotic for dogs?
- How long does it take probiotics to work in dogs?
- Does yogurt give dogs diarrhea?
- What is a natural probiotic for my dog?
- Is it OK to give dogs pumpkin everyday?
- Are bananas good for dogs?
- What are the best probiotics?
- Do probiotics actually work?
- What are the best probiotics for dogs?
- What is the best probiotic for dogs with diarrhea?
What yogurt is best for dogs?
Greek yogurtDogs should only eat plain yogurt with no added sugar.
Greek yogurt is the best choice for dogs.
It has significantly less lactose than regular yogurt.
Kefir, yogurt’s smooth, drinkable cousin, is also low in lactose and safe for dogs..
How do you treat leaky gut in dogs?
You cannot heal leaky gut IF the dog is still being exposed to grains, lectins or other inflammatory foods. As this will be constantly undoing all of your good work. Keep it simple, hypoallergenic food, hypoallergenic snacks and if you want to accelerate the process add in some bone broth.
Why does my dog eat grass?
And grass-eating doesn’t usually lead to throwing up — less than 25% of dogs that eat grass vomit regularly after grazing. Other suggested reasons why your dog might be eating grass include improving digestion, treating intestinal worms, or fulfilling some unmet nutritional need, including the need for fiber.
How do I give my dog probiotics?
Homemade Honey Berry Probiotic for DogsA pint size mason jar (these are my favorite)1 cup of organic berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)1 tablespoon honey.2 tablespoons of water.1 tsp Culture starter.A pinch of salt.Fermenting weight (optional)
Can I give my dog yogurt as a probiotic?
Probiotic yogurts are safe for dogs, and humans alike, and can help with the health of your gut. Probiotics can help fight yeast infections in dogs, which may cause skin and ear problems; boost immunity; and help your dog’s body absorb nutrients. These yogurts are also packed with calcium and protein.
Can dogs take probiotics daily?
Luckily, with daily probiotic supplements, you can provide your dog with adequate strains of natural flora bacteria. These microorganisms can help improve digestion, maximize the absorption of nutrients, and enhance the immune system.
Is peanut butter good for dogs?
Yes, dogs can eat peanut butter as long as it is fed in moderation and does not contain xylitol, so get out that peanut butter jar and share the good news.
Do probiotics help dog diarrhea?
Some studies have suggested that probiotics work as well as antibiotics in clearing up diarrhea in shelter dogs.
Are probiotics for dogs the same as for humans?
Furthermore, human probiotics and pet probiotics typically contain the same groups of bacteria. We have much to learn about what goes on in the gut microbiome, so for now, probiotics contain bacteria that are beneficial to pets and people – from the tiniest kittens to the tallest humans.
What does Proviable do for dogs?
Proviable Probiotic for Dogs and Cats Proviable also contains prebiotics, which help feed and encourage the growth of the probiotics. Proviable work to help firm stool and reduce diarrhea caused by intestinal upset.
Is pumpkin a probiotic for dogs?
In some cases, they may also recommend adding probiotics, which are supplements that contain live beneficial bacteria. Pumpkin acts as a prebiotic booster for these probiotics.
How long does it take probiotics to work in dogs?
For immune health, your pet should experience a positive impact in about four weeks. For dogs with anxious behaviors, she says you can expect to see improvements within about six weeks with Calming Care.
Does yogurt give dogs diarrhea?
Again, although yogurt is not toxic, your dog might have trouble digesting it. Dogs’ bodies are not designed to digest lactose after puppyhood, and, therefore, a food high in lactose can cause gas, diarrhea, and vomiting.
What is a natural probiotic for my dog?
Natural Probiotics for Dogs The reality is that plenty of foods contain natural probiotics. Yogurt, kefir, onions, bananas, garlic, honey, leeks, kimchi and Jerusalem artichokes all appear regularly on lists of probiotic foods.
Is it OK to give dogs pumpkin everyday?
Generally, 1 tsp of canned (or cooked and pureed) pumpkin per 10 lbs of body weight per day is a good standard to go by. If your dog has a health condition such as diabetes, please talk to your vet before feeding pumpkin to your dog.
Are bananas good for dogs?
Yes, dogs can eat bananas. In moderation, bananas are a great low-calorie treat for dogs. They’re high in potassium, vitamins, biotin, fiber, and copper. They are low in cholesterol and sodium, but because of their high sugar content, bananas should be given as a treat, not part of your dog’s main diet.
What are the best probiotics?
A+ Culturelle Digestive Health Probiotic.A+ Schiff Digestive Advantage Daily Probiotic.A Trunature Digestive Probiotic.A Ortho Molecular Products Ortho Biotic.A Garden of Life Primal Defense Ultra Probiotic Formula.A- Florastor.A- Dr. Formulas Nexabiotic Advanced Multi-Probiotic.A- Align Probiotic Supplement.More items…
Do probiotics actually work?
Probiotics probably prevent the disorder by boosting the numbers of beneficial bacteria, which may deter the harmful ones. Probiotics also seem to ameliorate irritable bowel syndrome, a chronic disease characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and frequent diarrhea or constipation (or a mix of the two).
What are the best probiotics for dogs?
Best Overall: Purina Fortiflora Canine Nutritional Supplement Box. … Best Budget: NUSENTIA Probiotic Miracle Supplement. … Best Chew: PetVitalityPRO Probiotics for Dogs with Natural Digestive Enzymes. … Best for Digestion: Zesty Paws Probiotic Bites with Natural Digestive Enzymes Chews.More items…•
What is the best probiotic for dogs with diarrhea?
Enterococcus faecium, for example, can effectively replace good bacteria that’s been destroyed by bad bacteria, while Bifidobacterium animalis is helpful for dogs suffering from diarrhea. Lactobacillus acidophilus is particularly useful after a course of antibiotics.

domain: pet


text:
Hericium erinaceus (HE), a traditional edible mushroom, is known as a medicine food homology to ameliorate gastrointestinal diseases. To investigate whether HE is clinically effective in alleviating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), HE extracts (polysaccharide, alcoholic extracts and whole extracts were prepared using solvent extraction methods) were
administrated for 2 weeks in rats with IBD induced by trinitro-benzene-sulfonic acid (TNBS) enema (150 mg/kg). Significant clinical and histological changes in IBD rats were identified, including damage activity, common morphous and tissue damage index scores in colonic mucosa and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. The damage activity, common morphous and tissue damage index scores in colonic mucosa (P <0.05) were improved, MPO activities were decreased. Inflammatory factors were also differentially expressed in colonic mucosa in IBD rats, including serum cytokines, Foxp3 and interleukin (IL)-10 were increased while NF-κB p65 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were decreased (P <0.05), and T cells were activated (P <0.05), especially in the alcohol extracts-treated group. We also found that the structure of gut microbiota of the H. erinaceus extracts-treated groups changed significantly by compared with the model group. Further studies revealed that the polysaccharides in HE extracts may play a prebiotic role, whereas the alcoholic extracts show bactericidin-like and immunomodulatory effects. Taken together, we demonstrated that H. erinaceus extracts could promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and improve the host immunity in vivo IBD model, which shows clinical potential in relieving IBD by regulating gut microbiota and immune system.
Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), including ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease, are characterized by recurring symptoms of abdominal pain, diarrhea, pus, and bleeding . The incidence and prevalence rates of IBDs have been reported to be increasing worldwide . The etiology and pathogenesis of IBD are still unclear; hereditary susceptibility, immune dysfunction, infection, and psychological and environmental factors are predicted to have a certain relationship . Unfortunately, treatments for IBDs are very limited, including mainly 5-aminosalicylic acid preparations , corticosteroids, immunosuppressive agents, and some biological agents [5–7]; however, these drugs have different limitations and also have side effects more or less for the patients. Therefore, new drugs and strategies are needed to enhance the clinical responses and outcomes.
Recently, gut microbiota is considered an important factor in the progress of IBD [8–10], although the etiology and pathogenesis of IBD are still unclear and varied. In genetically susceptible individuals, the gut mucosal integrity is damaged and the microbial antigens escape through the epithelial barrier more easily, thereby activating inappropriate immune response or underlying chronic inflammation . The gut microbiota plays an important role in maintaining the intestinal balance by activating the natural Toll-like receptors in the damage and repair process of intestinal mucosal integrity in patients with IBDs [12, 13]. Previous studies indicated that enteric flora disturbance could cause IBDs in mice and reduce the microbial diversity in patients, as when the intestinal bacteria increased, but some of the Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes decreased [8, 14]. How the enteric flora disturbance influences the IBDs is still unclear. It might be related to invasion of some pathogens and reduction in some protective bacteria, resulting in the activation of some abnormal immune cells, destruction of Th1- and Th17-mediated immune responses, increase in the mucous membrane permeability, loss of immune tolerance function, and so on [8, 14]. Previous studies showed that probiotic bacteria might be useful in preventing and treating acute and chronic conditions including antibiotic-associated diarrhea and IBDs . Variation in host physiology caused by different diet, age, lifestyle, genetics and other factors might have a significant impact on microbiota [16–19]. At present, the outcomes of clinical and animal studies on gut microbiota lack consistency, and to understand the impacted gut microbiota function factors need an improved study design and better control over microbiota-mediated effects.
The edible and medicinal fungi are well known and widely used as part of traditional diet and herbs in Asia. In the last decades, the medicinal properties of these fungi have become the core of intense researches in naturally produced pharmaceuticals [20, 21]. Hericium erinaceus, belonging to the division Basidiomycota and class Agaricomycetes, is both an edible and medicinal mushroom. It is a popular delicacy across the continents and replaces pork or lamb in Chinese vegetarian cuisine. It is rich in active constituents of diterpenoid compounds, steroids, polysaccharides, and other functional ingredients . It is reported that H. erinaceus extracts have antimicrobial activities against both antibiotic-resistant and nonresistant (susceptible) pathogenic bacteria [21, 23–26], especially Helicobacter pylori [27, 28], a human gastrointestinal pathogen causing adverse effects including ulcers.
IBD models are diverse [29, 30], and can be broadly categorized into four kinds: chemically induced, biologically induced, genetic (including congenic and genetically modified animals), and cell transfer models. A chemical, 2, 4, 6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS), is administered rectally in the form of an enema to mice or rats . It is administered in combination with ethanol, which disrupts the mucous barrier. It is generally thought that TNBS induces colitis by haptening -proteins within the gut, making them preferential targets for immune cells. In this study, a rat and mice colitis model was induced with a TNBS enema, and H. erinaceus extracts (polysaccharide, alcoholic extracts, and whole extracts) were administered intragastrically for 2 weeks to evaluate the treatment effect, with the aim to seek novel and effective drugs or foods from natural resources to relieve the symptoms.
Clinical improvements by H. erinaceus extracts administration
After treatment with TNBS enema, the rats in all the groups except for the control were anepithymia with reduced activity, lethargy, weight loss, and ruffled fur, along with bloody stools or occult blood. However, these symptoms disappeared from day 9 or day 10. The results of DAI after 14 days of treatments are shown in Figure Figure1A.1A. The rats in the H. erinaceus extracts-treated groups showed significant improvement compared with the TNBS-treated group.
Histological improvements by H. erinaceus extracts administration
After 14 days of treatment, the rats were killed and their colons were dissected. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E)-stained sections showed mucosal erosions and ulceration in the TNBS-induced group compared with the normal group . The lesions were situated in the mucosa and submucosa, with architectural disruption of the colonic crypts and an inflammatory infiltrate in the mucosa including neutrophils, lymphocytes, and macrophages. Variable crypt architecture was observed, from distorted and dilated to decrease and absent. In addition, occasional crypt abscesses were considered. Injuries of the H. erinaceus extracts-treated groups were significantly less severe compared with the TNBS-induced group.
Amelioration of the expression levels of serum cytokines
After 14 days of treatment, the serum levels of IL-1α, IL-2, IL-8, IL-10, IL-11, IL-12, TNF-γ, TNF-α, VGEF, MIP-α, and M-CSF were monitored. As shown in Figure Figure2,2, the proinflammatory cytokine levels of IL-1α (Figure (Figure2A),2A), IL-8 (Figure (Figure2C),2C), IL-12 (Figure (Figure2F),2F), TNF-α (Figure (Figure2G),2G), VGEF (Figure (Figure2I),2I), and MIP-α (Figure (Figure2K)2K) increased (P < 0.05) after the rats were injected with 150 mg/kg of TNBS enema, while the anti-inflammatory cytokines levels of IL-2 (Figure (Figure2B),2B), IL-10 (Figure (Figure2D),2D), IL-11 (Figure (Figure2E),2E), TNF-γ (Figure (Figure2H),2H), and M-CSF (Figure (Figure2J)2J) decreased, compared with the normal group (P < 0.05). This indicated that the inflammation was induced with the TNBS enema. After treatment with H. erinaceus extracts, all the cytokines levels were restored to near normal; some anti-inflammatory cytokines were secreted significantly and were better than the positive control group (P < 0.05). All the results demonstrated that the H. erinaceus extracts could be potential drugs and food resources for treating IBDs.
Decrease in the expression of tissue myeloperoxidase
Neutrophils were the main inflammatory cells in the damaged colonic tissue, leading to an increased level of myeloperoxidase (MPO). The MPO level was decreased according with the degree of inflammation, as shown in Figure Figure2L.2L. The MPO level in the TNBS-induced rats was significantly higher than that in the normal group (P < 0.05). The MPO level in tissues from H. erinaceus extracts-treated groups was significantly lower compared with the TNBS-induced group (P < 0.05). The result indicated that extracts from H. erinaceus reduced the degree of inflammation of the colon in IBD rats.
Amelioration of the expression of colonic Foxp3, NF-κB p65, TNF-α, and IL-10 proteins
All sections were observed under the same conditions using a light microscope (Figure (Figure3).3). The brown particles in the nucleus or in the cytoplasm were considered as positive cells. The proportion of Foxp3- and IL-10-positive cells in rats in the model group was significantly lower than that in the normal group (P < 0.05), while the levels of TNF-α and NF-κB p65 were significantly higher (P < 0.05). After treatment with H. erinaceus extracts, the proportion of Foxp3- and IL-10-positive cells significantly increased, especially in the alcoholic extracts (AE) (P < 0.05), compared with the model group. Nevertheless, the proportion of TNF-α- and NF-κB p65- positive cells was significantly reduced compared with the model group (P < 0.05). Cumulatively, these results suggested that H. erinaceus extracts had effective anti-inflammatory effects in IBD.
The gut microbiota structure significantly changed by H. erinaceus extracts administration
Operational taxonomic unit (OTU) abundance and taxonomic profiles were analyzed as shown in Figure Figure4.4. We also constructed and visualized a taxonomic tree of the predominant taxa (Figure (Figure6).6). All the treated groups can be clustered well using Bray-Curtis distance. The gut microbiota structure of the AE-treated group was close to the normal rats, while the PE-treated group were close to the model rats, and the WE-treated group was neither different from the normal nor the TNBS-induced group (Figure (Figure4),4), which indicated that the alcoholic extracts (AE) of H. erinaceus may regulate the gut microbiota to the normal-like structure in the TNBS-induced IBD rats as the main active ingredients of H. erinaceus.
Prebiotic effect of polysaccharides in H. erinaceus extracts on TNBS-induced mice
An IBD mice model was prepared after treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotic for 1 week to extensively evaluate the prevention and cure effects of polysaccharides on IBD. As shown in Figure Figure7,7, the colonic tissues were seriously damaged in the TNBS-combined antibiotics-treated groups, and some cytokines such as GM-CSF, TNF-γ, IL-10, IL-12, IL-17α, IL-4, TNF-α, VGEF-α, and LPS were far from the control, indicating that without the microbiota the intestinal mucosa (Figure (Figure7D)7D) could be easily destroyed (Figure (Figure7C).7C). When treated with H. erinaceus polysaccharides, especially the combined Bifidobacterium-treated groups, all the cytokine levels were restored to near normal, and even some clinical parameters were significantly better than those in the control group (P < 0.05). Moreover, the immunohistochemical staining showed that the expression of NF-κB, TNF-α, and IL-17 in the polysaccharide- and Bifidobacterium-treated groups decreased compared with the model (P < 0.05) and TNBS-combined antibiotics-treated groups (P<0.01); however, the expression of Foxp3 increased (P < 0.01), as shown in Figure
Mushrooms are generally a good source of nutrients and health-promoting compounds. The findings of the present study showed that the H. erinaceus extracts (polysaccharide, alcoholic extracts, and whole extracts) significantly improved the structure of gut microbiota. Some symptoms of IBD such as common morphous and tissue damage index scores in colonic mucosa improved (P < 0.05); the MPO activity decreased; the levels of serum cytokines, including IL-1α, IL-2, IL-8, IL-10, IL-11, IL-12, TNF-γ, TNF-α, VGEF, MIP-α, and M-CSF levels, improved to near normal; and the expression of Foxp3, NF-κB p65, TNF-α, and IL-10 in colonic mucosa improved (P < 0.05). These results clearly indicated that the H. erinaceus extracts could promote the growth of probiotic bacteria, improve immunity, and give positive results in the experimental models of IBD.
Immune factors play a predominant role in the pathogenesis of IBDs. Cytokines, including IL-1, IL-2, IL-12, TNF-α, VGEF, and MIP-α, were proinflammatory, while IL-8, IL-10, IL-11, TNF-γ, and M-CSF were anti-inflammatory. These cytokines have various biological activities such as transferring molecules, mainly regulating the immune response, participating in the immune cell differentiation development and tissue repair, interfacing inflammation, and stimulating hematopoietic function and other functions. Anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive treatments are well known for reducing and limiting the damage caused by IBD. Studies have shown that the inflammatory mediators and the pathological changes in colonic mucosa are mainly affected in IBD. The interleukins, such as IL-1, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10, were considered to be closely associated with UC. TNF-α helps in the infiltration of the inflammatory cells into the bowel, increasing the intestinal mucosal inflammation; promoting the release of platelet-activating factor, leukotriene, and oxygen free radical; and inducing nitric oxide synthesis leading to cell damage . TNF-α, with its accomplice IL-6, induces the thrombin or even microthrombus formation on intestinal mucosa , leading to microcirculation disorder, grievous ischemia, and anoxia. The underlying mechanism is that free radicals and TNF-α lead to the degradation of I-κB, an inhibitory protein of NF-κB, in turn resulting in NF-κB activation and induction of downstream target genes, as shown in Figure 10A. The expression of NF-κB increased after confluent cultures with 1 μg/mL TNF-α and 1 μg/mL LPS. When treated with AE, the expression levels decreased slightly, indicating that AE could down regulate the expression of NF-κB to suppress inflammation directly. In this study, the TNF-α levels were higher in the peripheral blood and colons of the TNBS-induced rats than in the normal group; also the expression of NF-κB in the colons was activated, and the levels of IL-1α, IL-2, IL-8, IL-10 were changed. However, after treatment with the H. erinaceus extracts, all the inflammatory responses were ameliorated.
Foxp3 is a member of the forkhead family of transcription factors critically involved in the development and function of CD25+ regulatory T cells (Treg). It regulates not only the expression of CD4+CD25+Treg (as a specific marker) but also the expression of CD8+CD28-Treg. It was found that the number of CD4+CD25+Treg cells decreased in the Foxp3 gene knockout or mutation mice, greatly increasing the incidence of autoimmune diseases . The homologous Foxp3 mutations were proved to cause genetic disorders in humans, such as immune disorders, bowel diseases, and endocrine diseases . The expression of Foxp3 was markedly inhibited in the TNBS-treated rats in the present study (Figure (Figure3).3). The number of CD4+CD25+Treg cells increased in the peripheral blood of rats after treatment with the H. erinaceus extracts compared with the TNBS-treated group (Figure 10B, P < 0.05), indicating that the H. erinaceus extracts could activate the immune system of IBD.
A new study reported that Bacteroides friagilis delivered immunomodulatory molecules to immune cells via secretion of outer membrane vesicles to Treg to suppress the mucosal inflammation in IBD , as shown in Figure 10C. The relative abundance of B. friagilis was higher in the AE-treated group than in the model group (P < 0.05). A previous study also indicated that short-chain fatty acids led to increased Treg cell differentiation via the small intestine, and middle- and long-chain fatty acids supported Th1 and Th17 cell differentiation . Abundant fatty acids were found in AE using the gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis (Figure 10D). Thus, this study confirmed that the fatty acids in AE were one of the pharmacodynamic ingredients of IBD. Previous studies also reported that H. erinaceus was rich in erinacines (3-hydroxyhericenone F, hericenone G, hericenone F, and hericerin, and so on) that have antimicrobial and wound-healing properties among other therapeutic potentials [24, 26, 41, 42], which was consistent with the results of the present study. However, the details of the pharmacodynamic ingredients still need more study.
Previous studies also reported that H. erinaceus was rich in some physiologically important components, especially β-glucan polysaccharides. The GC-MS analysis in this study revealed that the monosaccharide composition was mannose (∼55.70%), arabinose (∼0.7%), rhamnose (∼3.75%), xylose (∼1.60%), galactose (∼5.12%), and glucose (∼33.10%). The polysaccharides were demonstrated to have a good prebiotic effect in this study, synergistically relieving inflammation and enhancing immunity (Figure (Figure10).10). The expression levels of TNF-α (Figure (Figure8A),8A), NF-κB (Figure (Figure8B),8B), and IL-17 (Figure (Figure8C)8C) in polysaccharides plus Bifidobacterium-treated group were lower while the levels of Foxp3 (Figure (Figure8D)8D) significantly increased (P < 0.05) compared with the other treated groups, even more perfect than the normal, indicating that polysaccharides could activate the immune system and inhibit the reaction of inflammation; the mechanism was related to the Foxp3 T cells.
The physical health depends much on the intestinal health. Probiotics play many important roles in maintaining the intestinal health, such as making intestinal mucous membrane surface, forming biological barrier, constituting intestinal engraftment resistance to prevent bacterial pathogens, invading conditionally pathogenic bacteria, avoiding the occurrence of diseases and safeguarding the intestinal normal metabolism [43–47]. Bifidobacteria, a commensal microorganism found in the gastrointestinal tract, has been proved as the core of the intestinal flora, contributing a lot to human health [48, 49]. Long-term studies have shown that the abundance of bifidobacteria is higher in individuals who are healthy and have greater longevity than the ordinary, and they exist throughout the lifetime . Several strains have been attributed beneficial traits at local and systemic levels, through pathogen exclusion or immune modulation, among other benefits . This study found that the polysaccharides could significantly increase the abundance of Bifidobacterium (Figure (Figure9)9) in the cecum contents and reduce the levels of LPS, which were mainly secreted by Bacteroides spp., B. vulgatus, and Desulfovibrio spp., in serum and inflammation (Figure (Figure7B7B and and7C7C).
The importance of human gut microbiome in health and disease has been recognized for decades. Increasing evidence indicated that altered intestinal microbial composition and function resulted in an increased risk of IBD . Previous studies showed that diet resulted in significant changes in the composition of the cecal and fecal microbiota, and found diet-dependent shifts among the dominant bacterial phyla in the intestine of mice [18, 53–55]. In humans, diet also modulated the intestinal microbiota [56–59]. Findings from many laboratories have shown that the composition and products of the gut microbiota have unexpected effects on immune and inflammatory responses [17, 60, 61], and the genes that are also believed to be involved in IBD are usually involved in immune responses, transport, or bacterial recognition . By changing gut microbiota, cancer incidence can be also change, IBD is the important induced factor for malignant gastrointestinal tumor [63, 64]. In this study, the TNBS could significantly reduce the OTUs of the gut microbiota in rats (P < 0.05 vs the normal group), as shown in Figure Figure5,5, while treatment with H. erinaceus extracts recovered the number of OTUs to near normal, especially in the AE-treated groups (P < 0.05 vs the TNBS-induced group, P > 0.05 vs the normal group) and ameliorated the clinical parameters of the IBD rats. All these results indicated that H. erinaceus had a potential to naturally improve the structure of gut microbiota/ immunomodulatory property and could be used as a drug or functional food ingredient for IBD or other gastrointestinal bacterial infections. The active ingredients and mode of action of H. erinaceus for IBD prevention and treatment are shown in Figure Figure11.11. The AE containing fatty acids and erinacines (3-hydroxyhericenone F, hericenone G, hericenone F, and hericerin, ect) have antimicrobial and wound-healing properties, which can directly inhibit pathogen and repair the wound. The polysaccharides maninly influence the structure of the gut microbiota as polysaccharides for essential nutrients, and the small molecular organic acids produced from gut microbiota have many biological activities  but still need much more studies.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Preparation of the H. erinaceus extracts
The whole fruiting bodies of H. erinaceus (commoditized strain) were collected from the Research Laboratory of Edible Mushrooms of Guangdong Institute of Microbiology, China, in May 2015, and identified by Prof. Xie Yizhen of Guangdong Institute of Microbiology using shape features and ITS sequences. They were dried at 60°C, ground into a fine powder, and averaged into two equal parts.
Ten parts of alcohol were added to one half of the aforementioned powdered substance and then refluxed for 1 h twice. The filtrate was merged and concentrated to dry at a low pressure using rotary evaporators. The residue collected was the AE, which was stored at 4°C and prepared as oral suspension with distilled water for further use. Then, eight parts of distilled water was added to the alcohol-extracted residue, soaked for 2 h, and refluxed for 1 h twice. The filtrate was merged and concentrated to 1 g/mL (equivalent to the crude drugs) at a low pressure using rotary evaporators. When the solution cooled to 45°C, the pH value was adjusted to 6.0 using diluted hydrochloric acid. The solution was then allowed to traverse through the ion exchange resin (D-900; Hebei Cangzhou Baoen Adsorption Materials Technology Co., Ltd, Hebei, China) at a speed of 1.0 Bv/h two times. The eluent was then concentrated to a low volume, cooled to room temperature, added to alcohol to a concentration of 80%, and refrigerated at 4°C for 48 h. The precipitation collected was the PE, which was stored at 4°C and prepared as oral suspension with distilled water for further use.
Ten parts of 50% aqueous alcohol (v/v) was added to the other half of the powdered substance and refluxed for 1 h twice. The filtrate was merged and concentrated to dry at a low pressure using rotary evaporators. The residue collected was the WE, which was re-suspended in distilled water and stored at 4°C for further use.
Animals and treatments
Thirty adult male Sprague–Dawley rats (weight 180–220 g) and ninety male Kunming mice (18–22 g) were purchased from the animal center of the Guangdong Medical Laboratory Animal Center, Guangzhou, China. The animals were kept in the specific-pathogen-free laboratory of Guangdong Laboratory Animals Monitoring Institute. The rats were kept in cages with three rats per cage (30 × 30 × 20 cm3) in a temperature (22°C ± 1°C) and humidity (55% ± 10%) controlled room on a 12-h light/dark cycle (lights were switched off at 17:00 h). The experimental protocols were approved by the laboratory of Guangdong Laboratory Animals Monitoring Institute, and all experimental procedures conformed to the National Institutes of Health Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals. All efforts were made to minimize the number of animals used.
Effects on TNBS-induced IBD rats
After 7 days of adaptation period, the animals were randomly divided into five groups (six rats in each group, and three per cage): 100 mg/(kg · day), PE group; 100 mg/(kg · day), AE group; 100 mg/(kg · day, WE group; model group; and normal group, and more details showed in Table Table1.1. The rats were fed a standard diet with free access to water. After 24 h of fasting, the rats were anesthesized using an intraperitoneal injection of 2% sodium pentobarbital (0.2 mL/100 g). They were intubated (using latex tubing of 2 mm diameter, lubricated with edible oil) through the anus, and gently pushed into the lumen to about 8.0 cm. Then, 150 mg/kg of TNBS (Sigma-Aldrich, MO, USA; dissolved in 50% ethanol) solution was injected through the latex tubing. The rats were hung upside-down for 30 s to ensure that the mixture fully seeped into the lumen without leakage. The H. erinaceus extracts were administered intragastrically to the TNBS-induced animals after 1 day and last 2 weeks.
|Groups||Rats No.||Trinitro-benzene-sulfonic acid (TNBS) (mg/kg)||Dose (mg/kg/d)|
|Amino saliciylic acid (5-ASA)||5||150||100|
|Whole extracts (WE)||5||150||100|
|Alcoholic extracts (AE)||5||150||100|
Effects on TNBS-induced IBD mice
All mice were randomly divided into nine groups (n = 9): control, model, model and high-dose antibiotics, polysaccharides [100 mg/(kg · d)], Bifidobacterium, polysaccharides plus high-dose antibiotics, polysaccharides plus Bifidobacterium, Bifidobacterium plus high-dose antibiotics, and polysaccharides plus Bifidobacterium plus high-dose antibiotics. All the antibiotics (ampicillin, 2 g/L; vancomycin, 1.0 g/L; neomycin, 2 g/L; and metronidazole, 2 g/L) were given for 7 days, then IBD was induced with a TNBS (150 mg/kg) enema, and more details showed in Table Table2.2. After 7 days of drug treatment, the mice were induced again with TNBS enema, followed by another 4 days of drug treatment.
|Groups||Mice No.||TNBS (mg/kg)||Dose|
|Model & high-dose antibiotics||9||150||0.2 ml|
|Polysaccharides & high-dose antibiotics||9||150||100 mg/kg/d|
|Polysaccharides & Bifidobacterium||9||150||100 mg/kg/d+109 CFU|
|Bifidobacterium & high-dose antibiotics||9||150||109 CFU +0.2 ml|
|Polysaccharides & Bifidobacterium & high-dose antibiotics||9||150||100 mg/kg/d+109 CFU +0.2 ml|
After treatment, the mice were anesthesized by an intraperitoneal injection of 2% sodium pentobarbital (0.25 mL/100 g), and the blood plasma was collected by the abdominal aortic method and the serum by centrifugation (1500 rpm, 10 min). Then, the serum was subjected to analysis to detect the production of cytokines GM-CSF, TNF-γ, IL-10, IL-12, IL-17α, IL-4, TNF-α, and VGEF, and the levels of LPS. The colons and spleens obtained from the rats were fixed in 4% paraformaldehyde at pH 7.4 for further pathological observation, and the cecum contents were collected for 16s rRNA analysis.
General status observations and colon visceral organ index assay
The percentage weight loss, characteristics of the stool, and the presence of blood in the stool were recorded to derive a Disease Activity Index (DAI). The scoring criteria were performed by three persons, all blinded to the experimental groups before DAI scoring, as described in a previous study
The weight of the colon of each rat or mouse was recorded, and then the colons were stored in 4% paraformaldehyde or frozen as soon as possible for further analysis. The colon index (the weight of the colon/the length of the colon) was calculated.
Histological changes were evaluated by H&E analysis and immunohistochemically stained sections. The colon samples were processed according to the protocols described in a previous study , as well as for immunohistochemical analysis of Foxp3, TNF-α, IL-10, and NF-κB p65 (1:100).
Gut microbiota analysis
Bacterial DNA isolation
Fresh fecal samples were collected before the fasting of the rats and stored at -80°C. The total bacterial DNA was extracted from 0.25 g of the fecal sample using the repeated bead beating method described by Favier with modifications as described in a previous study .
16S rRNA gene sequencing
Fresh fecal samples were collected before the fasting of the rats and stored at -80°C. Frozen microbial DNA isolated from mice cecal sample with total masses ranging from 1.2 to 20.0 ng were stored at -20°C. The microbial communities of V3 and V4 region 16S rRNA genes were amplified using the forward primer 5’-ACTCCTACGGGAGGCAGCA-3’ and the reverse primer 5’-GGACTACHVGGGTWTCTAAT-3’. Each amplified product was concentrated via solid-phase reversible immobilization and quantified by electrophoresis using an Agilent 2100 Bioanalyzer (Agilent). After quantification of DNA concentration using Nanodrop, each sample was diluted to a concentration of 1 × 109 mol/μL in the Tris-EDTA buffer and pooled. Then, 20 μL of the pooled mixture was used for sequencing with the Illumina MiSeq sequencing system according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Raw pyrosequencing reads obtained from the sequencer were denoised using the Titanium PyroNoise software. The resulting pyrosequencing reads were analyzed by common analysis methods
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay
After 14 days of treatment, the rats or mice were anesthetized using an intraperitoneal injection of 2% sodium pentobarbital (0.25 mL/100 g), decapitated, and dissected. The blood plasma was collected by the abdominal aortic method and the serum by centrifugation (1500 rpm, 10 min). Then, the serum was subjected to analysis for the production of cytokines interleukin (1L)-1α, 1L-2, 1L-8, 1L-10, 1L-11, and IL-12; tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-γ and TNF-α; vascular endothelial growth factor (VGEF); human macrophage inflammatory protein-1α (MIP-α); and macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) and so on. All the assays were carried out according to the procedures recommended in the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit (Shanghai Bogoo Biological Technology Co., Ltd, China) manual.
Determination of the MPO activity
The myeloperoxidase (MPO) colorimetric kit (Jiancheng Bioengineering Institute, China) was used to measure the MPO activity in colon tissue homogenates to evaluate the severity of UC using the thiobarbituric acid method.
Caco-2 cell culture
Caco-2 cells (a human colonic cell line; ATCC, MD, USA) were cultured in the Dulbecco’s modified Eagle medium supplemented with 12% fetal bovine serum (FBS) and passaged twice weekly. For analysis, 106 cells were plated in 24-well plates in a medium containing 12% FBS at 37°C in an atmosphere of 5% CO2 and relative humidity of 90% and allowed to rest for 24 h. Confluent cultures were stimulated with 1 μg/mL TNF-α and 1 μg/mL LPS added to the medium. The cells were harvested after 24 h.
All data were expressed as means plus standard deviations of at least three independent experiments. The significant differences between treatments were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance followed by Dunnett’s test in order to detect inter-group differences. A difference was considered statistically significant if the p value was less than 0.05. Statistical Package was used the SPSS (Abacus Concepts, CA, USA) and Prism 5 (GraphPad, CA, USA) software.