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Hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p are downregulated in non-small cell lung cancer and have inverse effects on invasion and migration of lung cancer cells
Lili Jiang1, 2,
Qin Huang1, 2,
Siyang Zhang3,
Qingfu Zhang1, 2,
Jihong Chang1, 2,
Xueshan Qiu1, 2Email author and
Enhua Wang1, 2
BMC Cancer201010:318
© Jiang et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd. 2010
Two mature microRNAs (miRNAs), hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p (collectively referred to as hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p), are derived from 3' and 5' ends of pre-miR-125a, respectively. Although impaired regulation of hsa-miR-125a-5p has been observed in some tumors, the role of this miRNA in invasion and metastasis remains unclear, and few studies have examined the function of hsa-miR-125a-3p. In order to characterize the functions of hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p in invasion and metastasis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), we investigated the relationships between hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p expression and lymph node metastasis in NSCLC tissues. We also explored the impact of expression of these miRNAs on invasive and migratory capabilities of lung cancer cells.
Expression of hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p in NSCLC tissues was explored using real-time PCR. The relationships between hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p expression and pathological stage or lymph node metastasis were assessed using the Spearman correlation test. For in vitro studies, lung cancer cells were transfected with sense and antisense 2'-O-methyl oligonucleotides for gain-of-function and loss-of-function experiments. Transwell experiments were performed to evaluate cellular migration and invasion.
Expression of hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p was lower in NSCLC tissues than in adjacent normal lung tissues (LAC). Furthermore, the results from the Spearman correlation test showed a negative relationship between hsa-miR-125a-3p expression and pathological stage or lymph node metastasis and an inverse relationship between hsa-miR-125a-5p expression and pathological stage or lymph node metastasis. In vitro gain-of-function experiments indicated that hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p function in an opposing manner, suppressing or enhancing cell migration and invasion in A549 and SPC-A-1 cell lines, respectively. These opposing functions were further validated by suppression of hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p expression in loss-of-function experiments.
Hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p play distinct roles in regulation of invasive and metastatic capabilities of lung cancer cells, consistent with the opposing correlations between the expression of these miRNAs and lymph node metastasis in NSCLC. These results provide new insights into the roles of miR-125a family members in the development of NSCLC.
Lung Cancer Cell
A549 Cell
Pathological Stage
Untreated Group
Lung Cancer Cell Line
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of endogenous, noncoding RNAs, approximately 20-24 nucleotides in length, that are derived from longer transcripts termed pri-miRNAs and pre-miRNAs [1–5]. MiRNAs recognize target mRNAs through partial complementarity to specific sequences within the mRNAs and posttranscriptionally regulate gene expression in multicellular organisms [6–9]. Emerging evidence has shown that human miRNA genes are frequently located in cancer-associated genomic regions, and perturbed miRNA expression patterns have been detected in many human cancers [10]. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to further elucidate the biological functions of miRNAs.
Recently, miRNAs have been shown to play a role in invasion and metastasis [11–15]. For example, miR-155 may play an important role in the TGF-β-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and in cell migration and invasion through targeting of the RhoA transcript [16]. MiR-21 has been shown to stimulate cell invasion and metastasis in several tumor models, including breast cancer [12], colon cancer [17], and glioma [18]. MiR-10b can be activated by the pro-metastatic transcription factor TWIST1 and is essential for TWIST1-induced EMT involved in promotion of cell motility and invasiveness [19]. Tumor invasion and metastasis are the critical steps that define the prognosis of cancer patients. Therefore, understanding the specific roles of miRNAs in cancer progression could lead to the identification of predictive markers and the development of novel therapeutic strategies for patients with metastases.
MiR-125a is one of the many miRNAs that remain to be fully characterized. Using miRNA microarray analysis, Yanainhara and colleagues [20] found that miR-125a, specifically the hsa-miR-125a-5p mature miRNA, is located at 19q13.41 and that its expression is downregulated in NSCLC. Recently, a new member of the mature miR-125a family has been identified and named hsa-miR-125a-3p. Unfortunately, the expression and function of hsa-miR-125a-3p are currently unknown. In this study, we found that expression of both hsa-miR-125a-5p and hsa-miR-125a-3p is decreased significantly in NSCLC tissues in comparison to LAC tissues. Changes in expression of both hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p are associated with pathological stage and lymph node metastasis in lung cancer, but in an opposing manner as shown by the Spearman correlation test. In cellular studies, hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p also appeared to function in opposing manners in lung cancer cells, suppressing or enhancing cell migration and invasion, respectively. These results identify a potential role for the miR-125a family in metastasis of NSCLC.
We analyzed 52 pairs of non-small cell lung cancer specimens and corresponding normal lung tissues (LAC) collected at the time of surgery and prior to chemotherapy. Specimens were obtained from patients at the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University from 1 January 2006 to 1 December 2007 with informed consent. For the majority of samples, clinical and biological information was available. The study has been approved by the Hospitals' Ethical Review Committee.
The HBE (Human Bronchiolar Epithelium) cell line and the human lung cancer cell lines SPC-A-1 (adenocarcinoma), LH7 and NCI-H460 (large cell cancinoma) were propagated in RPMI1640 (Gibco). The A549 (adenocarcinoma) cell line was propagated in Dulbecco's Modifed Eagle Medium (Gibco). In both cases, the medium was supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS), 100 U/ml penicillin, and 100 U/ml streptomycin. Cells were cultured at 37°C in 5% CO2 until they reached a confluency of 75%.
Depletion of hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p in the A549 and SPC-A-1 cell lines was achieved through transfection with antisense 2'-O-methyl oligonucleotides directed against hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p. Cells were transfected using Lipofetamine™ 2000 (Invitrogen) according to the manufacturer's protocol.
Briefly, complexes containing the oligonucleotides were prepared according to the recommended protocol and added directly to cells at a final oligonucleotide concentration of 0.4 nmol/mL. Oligonucleotides composed entirely of 2'-O-methyl bases were chemically synthesized by Integrated DNA Technologies (GeneChem) and were comprised of the following sequences: 2'-O-Me-sense-3p: 5'-ACA GGU GAG GUU CUU GGG AGCC-3' 2'-O-Me-antisense-3p: 5'-GGC UCC CAA GAA CC U CAC CUGU-3', 2'-O-Me-scramble-3p: 5'-GGU CGG UGC UCG AUG CAG GUAA-3', 2'-O-Me-sense-5p: 5'-UCC CUG AGA CCC UUU AAC CUG UGA-3', 2'-O-Me-antisense- 5p: 5'-UCA CAG GUU AAA GGG UCU CAG GGA-3', 2'-O-Me-scramble-5p: 5'-GGA CG G CGA UCA GAU AAG AGU UCU-3'. Cells were divided into four groups: an untreated group incubated only in the normal media (untreated), a group transfected with the scrambled 2'-O-methyl oligonucleotide (scramble); a group transfected with the sense 2'-O-methyl oligonucleotide (sense) and a group transfected with the antisense 2'-O-methyl oligonucleotide (antisense). The untreated and scramble groups served as negative controls.
Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR)
Expression of mature miRNAs was assayed using the TaqMan MicroRNA Assay in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions (Applied Biosystems). All reactions, including no-template controls and RT-minus controls, were run in an ABI Prism 7900HT Sequence detection system (Applied Biosystems). Specific RT primers and TaqMan probes were used to quantify the expression of hsa-miR-125a-3p (PN: 4395310) and hsa-miR-125a-5p (PN: 4395309). Samples were normalized to RNU6B (PN: 4373381) or U18 (PN: 4380904) as indicated. For quantification of tissue samples, RT-PCR analysis was performed in two independent experiments, each using two independent samples. For quantification of cell samples, RT-PCR analysis was performed in three independent experiments, each using three independent samples. MiRNA expression data is presented as fold difference relative to either RNU6B or U18 based on the following equation: RQ = 2-ΔΔCt.
Cell migration assays
For cell migration assays, 5 × 104 cells were trypsinized, washed, resuspended in serum-free RPMI1640 or DMEM, and placed in the top portion of the chamber. The lower portion of the chamber contained 10% FBS for use as a chemoattractant. The chambers were incubated at 37°C in 5% CO2 for 24 h, washed with PBS, and fixed in 100% methanol. Following fixation, cells were stained with Haematoxylin and imaged, and the number of migrating cells was counted. Five random fields were analyzed for each chamber. Assays were conducted in duplicate in three independent experiments.
Cell invasion assays
Pre-chilled serum-free RPMI1640 or DMEM was mixed with Matrigel (1:7; BD Biosciences). The upper compartments of the chambers were filled with 100 μ1 of the mixture, and the Matrigel was allowed to solidify at room temperature for 4 h. After solidification, 5 × 104 cells were trypsinized, washed, resuspended in serum-free RPMI1640 or DMEM, and placed in the top portion of the chamber. The lower portion of the chamber contained 10% FBS for use as a chemoattractant. The chambers were incubated at 37°C in 5% CO2 for 24 h, washed with PBS, and fixed in 100% methanol. Fixed cells were stained with Haematoxylin and imaged, and the number of invasive cells was counted. Five random fields were analyzed for each chamber. Assays were conducted in duplicate in three independent experiments.
The SPSS 13.0 statistical software package was used for all analyses. For real-time PCR data, the statistical analysis of hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p expression levels in NSCLC tissues and corresponding LAC tissues was log2 transformed. Paired-samples T-test was used to analyze significant differences in hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p expression between NSCLC and LAC tissues. All values are expressed as mean ± SD. The Chi-square test was used to determine the relationship between hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p expression and clinicopathological variables. The two-sided Fisher's exact test to determine the relationship between hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p expression and clinicopathological variables when the number of tumors analyzed was less than 5 [21]. The Mann-Whitney test was used for pathological grade and clinical stage ranked data analysis. Spearman correlation analysis was used to determine the correlation between hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p expression and clinical stage and lymph node metastasis status. Other results were analyzed using independent samples T-test. Results were considered to be statistically significant at values of p < 0.05.
Downregulation of hsa-miR-125a-3p/-5p expression in NSCLC tissues
Although it has been observed that expression of hsa-miR-125a-5p is downregulated in NSCLC using miRNA microarray analysis, expression levels of hsa-miR-125a-3p in NSCLC remain unknown. Therefore, we examined the relative expression of hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p in 52 NSCLCs and paired LACs by real-time PCR. Expression of RNU6B was used as an internal standard. Expression of hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p decreased in NSCLCs in comparison to matched LACs (p < 0.05, AUC-3p = 0.735, AUC-5p = 0.845, Fig 1 and Fig 2, Additional file 1). The mean expression levels of hsa-miR-125a-3p in NSCLCs was decreased approximate 4.5 folds of that in LACs (p < 0.001, Fig 3A) and hsa-miR-125a-5p was decreased approximate 6 folds (p < 0.001, Fig 3B).
Relative expression of hsa-miR-125a-3p in lung cancer tissues. The relative expression of hsa-miR-125a-3p decreased in 52 NSCLCs in comparison to corresponding LACs. The data are representative of three independent experiments, and the relative expression values were calculated using the equation RQ = 2-ΔΔCt.
Relative expression of hsa-miR-125a-5p in lung cancer tissues. The relative expression of hsa-miR-125a-5p decreased in 52 NSCLCs in comparison to corresponding LACs. The results are representative of three independent experiments, and the relative expression values were calculated using the equation RQ = 2-ΔΔCt.
Mean levels of hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p in lung cancer tissues. (A) The mean level of hsa-miR-125a-3p relative expression in 52 NSCLCs. (B) The mean level of hsa-miR-125a-5p relative expression in 52 NSCLCs. The values represent the means of three replicates, and the relative expression values were calculated using the equation RQ = 2-ΔΔCt.
Correlation between hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p expression and clinicopathological variables of NSCLC
To determine the effects of hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p expression on tumor initiation and progression, lung cancer patients were divided into two groups based on the mean level of hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p expression in 52 NSCLCs. The two groups were defined as follows: hsa-miR-125a-3p low expression and high expression (1.2352 of the log2 value) and hsa-miR-125a-5p low expression and high expression (1.8594 of the log2 value) [22]. The relationships between hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p expression and clinicopathological variables for lung cancer are shown in Table 1 and Table 2. Statistically significant associations between hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p expression and pathological stage were observed (p = 0.012 and p = 0.002, respectively, Mann-Whitney Test). Changes in expression of hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p were also statistically significantly associated with lymph node metastasis in lung cancer (p = 0.034 and p = 0.042, respectively, Two-sided Fisher's Exact Test). No correlation was observed between hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p expression and gender, histology type, or pathological grade. However, the hsa-miR-125a-3p expression level was correlated with age (p = 0.031, Chi-square Test), in contrast to that of hsa-miR-125a-5p.
Relationship between hsa-miR-125a-3p expression and clinical pathological factors in lung cancinoma
hsa-miR-125a-3p
Low expression(%)
High expression(%)
≤ 60
Histology type
Squamous cancer
Pathological grade
No metastasis
a Two-sided Fisher's Exact Test.
b Chi-square Test
c Mann-whitney Test
In order to better characterize the relationship between hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p expression and pathological stage and lymph node metastasis, we further analyzed the pathological stage and lymph node metastasis data using the Spearman correlation test. The results showed a negative correlation between hsa-miR-125a-3p expression and pathological stage (r = -0.352, p = 0.011), as well as lymph node metastasis (r = -0.326, p = 0.018). However, the correlations between hsa-miR-125a-5p expression and pathological stage (r = 0.439, p = 0.001) and lymph node metastasis (r = 0.300, p = 0.031) were positive.
Predicted and confirmed mRNA targets
Results from tissue expression analysis indicated that hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p are associated with metastasis. Thus, we used computational analysis to predict metastasis-related target mRNAs of hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p. The analysis was conducted using microrna.org and the TargetScanHuman 5.1 and MiRBase webservers. Target predictions from Microrna.org and MiRBase are based on the miRanda algorithm. TargetScanHuman5.1 utilized the TargetScan algorithm. The relationships between hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p and their potential target genes identified from these three databases are shown in Fig.4, Additional file 2, and Additional file 3. The details of these target genes are shown in Additional file 4 and Additional file 5.
Prediction of hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p target genes. Predictions were conducted using microrna.Org, TargetScanHuman 5.1, and MiRBase webservers. Microrna.org and MiRBase predictions are based on the miRanda algorithm, while TargetScanHuman5.1 predictions are based on the TargetScan algorithm.
Downregulation of hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p expression in NSCLC cell lines
In order to identify suitable cell lines for further studies, we examined the relative expression levels of hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p in four lung cancer cell lines (LH7, A549, SPC-A-1, and NCI-H460). Expression of hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p in the lung cancer cell lines was normalized to that of a control human bronchiolar epithelium (HBE) cell line. U18 was used as an internal standard for real-time PCR. We found that the expression levels of hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p were lower in each of the four lung cancer cell lines than in the HBE cell line. The mean level of hsa-miR-125a-3p expression was moderately decreased in A549 cells (p < 0.001, Fig 5A), and the mean level of hsa-miR-125a-5p expression was moderately decreased in SPC-A-1 cells (p < 0.001, Fig 5B). Therefore, we chose the A549 cell line for further studies regarding hsa-miR-125a-3p and the SPC-A-1 cell line for further studies regarding hsa-miR-125a-5p.
Relative expression of hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p in different lung cancer cell lines. (A) The relative expression levels of hsa-miR-125a-3p in four lung cancer cell lines, particularly the NCI-H460 cell line, were all lower than that of the HBE cell line. (B) The relative expression levels of hsa-miR-125a-5p in four lung cancer cell lines, particularly the A459 cell line, were all lower than that of the HBE cell line. The results are representative of three independent experiments, and the relative expression values were calculated using the equation RQ = 2-ΔΔCt.
Effects of gain-of-function of hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p on migratory and invasive capabilities of A549 and SPC-A-1 cells
To determine whether hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p are associated with migration and invasion in lung cancer cells, we adopted a gain-of-function approach. The quantities of hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p were exogenously increased by transfection of sense 2'-O-methyl oligonucleotides into A549/SPC-A-1 cells. We first utilized real-time PCR to analyze the expression of hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p to ensure that transfection with sense 2'-O-methyl oligonucleotides increased its expression after 24 hours. Expression in transfected cells was normalized to that of untreated cells, and U18 expression was used as an internal standard. The results showed that, in comparison to the control untreated groups, the mean levels of expression of both hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p in the sense groups were significantly increased (p < 0.001 for both, Fig 6A and 6B).
Relative levels of hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p were increased by transfection with sense 2'-O-methyl oligonucleotides. (A) The relative levels of hsa-miR-125a-3p were significantly increased in the sense-3p-transfected group. (B) The relative levels of hsa-miR-125a-5p were significantly increased in the sense-5p-transfected group. The results are representative of three independent experiments, and the relative expression values were calculated using the equation RQ = 2-ΔΔCt.
We next analyzed the migratory capabilities of cells overexpressing hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p using transwell chambers. For analysis of hsa-miR-125a-3p, the number of A549 cells in the untreated group that migrated through a microporous membrane was 31.20 ± 1.64. There was no difference between untreated cells and cells transfected with the scramble-3p oligonucleotide (31.40 ± 0.55, p = 0.807). However, the number of migrating cells was significantly decreased when cells were transfected with the sense-3p oligonucleotide (16.40 ± 2.07, p < 0.001). For hsa-miR-125a-5p, the number of SPC-A-1 cells in the untreated group that migrated through the microporous membrane was 26.60 ± 2.07. Again no difference was observed between untreated cells and cells transfected with the scramble-5p oligonucleotide (25.60 ± 1.67, p = 0.426). However, the number of migrating cells increased significantly when cells were transfected with the sense-5p oligonucleotide (38.80 ± 1.92, p < 0.001, Fig 7).
Effects of gain-of-function of hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p on migration and invasion of lung cancer cells. Migration assay results showed that the number of A549 cells that migrated through the microporous membrane was significantly decreased in the sense-3p group (p < 0.001). In contrast, the number of migratory SPC-A-1 cells was significantly increased in the sense-5p group (p < 0.001, bar = 20 μm). Invasion assay results showed that the number of A549 cells that invaded through the Matrigel was significantly decreased in the sense-3p group (p < 0.001). However, the number of invasive SPC-A-1 cells significantly increased in the sense-5p group (p < 0.001, bar = 20 μm). The results are representative of three independent experiments.
In the hsa-miR-125a-3p invasion analysis, the number of A549 cells in the untreated group that invaded through the Matrigel was 24.40 ±2.41. There was no difference between untreated cells and cells transfected with the scramble-3p oligonucleotide (24.80 ± 3.03, p = 0.823). The number of invading cells decreased significantly when cells were transfected with the sense-3p oligonucleotide (12.20 ± 1.58, p < 0.001). In the invasion assay for hsa-miR-125a-5p, the number of SPC-A-1 cells in the untreated group that invaded through the Matrigel was 22.20 ± 1.72. Again no significant difference was observed between untreated cells and cells transfected with the scramble-5p oligonucleotide (23.40 ± 2.34, p = 1.000). However, the number of invading cells increased significantly when cells were transfected with the sense-5p oligonucleotide (30.80 ± 1.92, p < 0.001, Fig 7).
Effects loss-of-function of hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p on the migratory and invasive capabilities of A549 and SPC-A-1 cells
To further examine whether endogenous hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p regulate migration and invasion, we adopted a loss-of-function approach that blocked the function of endogenous hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p using antisense 2'-O-methyl oligonucleotides [23–26]. We then analyzed the migratory and invasive capabilities of these cells using the methods described above. In the hsa-miR-125a-3p migration assay, the number of A549 cells in the untreated group that migrated through the microporous membrane was 31.00 ± 1.54. There was no difference between the untreated and scramble-3p-transfected cells (32.00 ± 0.58, p = 0.347). The number of migrating cells was significantly increased when A549 cells were transfected with the antisense-3p oligonucleotide (46.00 ± 3.16, p < 0.001). For the hsa-miR-125a-5p migration assay, the number of SPC-A-1 cells in the untreated group that migrated through the microporous membrane was 22.60 ± 2.07. No difference was observed between untreated and scramble-5p-transfected cells (22.40 ± 1.14, p = 0.855). The number of migrating cells was significantly decreased when SPC-A-1 cells were transfected with the antisense-5p oligonucleotide (15.00 ± 1.58, p < 0.001, Fig 8).
Effects of loss-of-function of hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p on migration and invasion of lung cancer cells. Migration assay results showed that the number of A549 cells that migrated through the microporous membrane was significantly increased in the antisense-3p group (p < 0.001). However, the number of migratory SPC-A-1 cells was significantly decreased in the antisense-5p group (p < 0.001, bar = 20 μm). Invasion assay results showed that the number of A549 cells that invaded through the Matrigel was significantly increased in the antisense-3p group (p < 0.001). In contrast, the number of invasive SPC-A-1 cells was significantly decreased in the antisense-5p group (p < 0.001, bar = 20 μm). The results are representative of three independent experiments.
In the hsa-miR-125a-3p invasion assay, the number of A549 cells in the untreated group that invaded through the Matrigel was 25.00 ± 1.51. There was no difference between untreated and scramble-3p-transfected cells (24.60 ± 3.04, p = 0.801). The number of invading cells was significantly increased when A549 cells were transfected with the antisense-3p oligonucleotide (37.00 ± 2.73, p < 0.001). In the hsa-miR-125a-5p invasion assay, the number of SPC-A-1 cells in the untreated group that invaded through the Matrigel was 21.00 ± 1.59. No significant difference was observed between untreated and scramble-5p-transfected cells (20.80 ± 0.84, p = 0.809). The number of invading SPC-A-1 cells decreased significantly when cells were transfected with the antisense-5p oligonucleotide (11.00 ± 1.07, p < 0.001, Fig 8).
MiRNAs have emerged as important regulators of tumorigenesis [27, 28]. Mounting evidence has shown that miRNAs are frequently mutated or differentially expressed in human cancers, suggesting that miRNAs may act as tumor suppressors or oncogenes depending on whether their specific targets act as oncogenes or tumor suppressors [29]. Therefore, tumor suppressor miRNAs are generally expressed at low levels [30, 31] and oncogenic miRNAs are expressed at high levels in tumors or tumor cell lines [32, 33]. These observations suggest that specific characterization of miRNA expression and function could lead to the identification of novel biomarkers to predict clinical outcomes in the future [34–37].
In the present study, we report that expression of hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p is dysregulated in lung cancer. Consistent with the results of Yanainhara [20], real-time PCR results showed that expression of hsa-miR-125a-5p was decreased significantly in the majority of NSCLCs in comparison to matched LACs. In addition, we also found that expression of hsa-miR-125a-3p was significantly reduced. This expression pattern suggests that hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p may act as tumor suppressors by regulating expression of a subset of oncogenes. These specific alterations in expression may be characteristic of human lung cancer and may contribute to lung tumorigenesis.
Tumor invasion and metastasis are the most common cause of cancer deaths worldwide [38, 39]. Studies regarding the functions of miRNAs in tumor invasion and metastasis currently represent a major focus in cancer biology [14, 40]. In this study, we evaluated the correlation between hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p expression levels and clinicopathological variables in 52 NSCLC tissues. Interestingly, we found that hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p expression levels were correlated with pathological stage and lymph node metastasis. Together with our functional studies in lung cancer cells, these results suggest that hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p function in opposite manners to suppress and enhance cell migration and invasion of lung cancer cells, respectively, which may in turn affect lymph node metastasis in NSCLC.
The specific mechanisms that lead to changes in cell migration and invasion regulated by hsa-miR-125a-3p/5p in lung cancer cells remain unknown. MiRNAs are commonly thought to posttranscriptionally regulate mRNA degradation and inhibition of mRNA translation via interactions with the 3'-untranslated regions (UTRs) of target mRNAs in animals [16–18]. However, there are several remaining gaps in our knowledge of miRNA function that have been revealed by recent studies. Recently, a few experiments have indicated possible target sites in the 5'-UTR of mRNAs [41]. Furthermore, 0rom and colleagues [7] found that miRNA-10a binds the 5'UTR of ribosomal protein mRNAs and enhances their translation. Therefore, the regulatory mechanisms controlled by miRNAs are may be more varied and extensive than previously thought.
According to predicted results from three webserver databases, CCL4 and IGF-2 were the most likely target genes of hsa-miR-125a-3p, while IL16 and CCL21 were the most likely target genes of hsa-miR-125a-5p. CCL4 (MIP-1beta), a member of the CC chemokine family, induces cellular migration and invasion through interactions with its receptor CCR5 [42, 43]. Nussbaum and colleagues [44] have reported that IGF-2 and its receptor IGF-2R stimulate tumor cell migration in human hepatocarcinogenesis. IL-16, an activator of the plasminogen-plasmin system, promotes human eosinophil migration into the extracellular matrix via a CCR3-chemokine-mediated signaling pathway [45]. Previous results from our laboratory indicated that CCR7 and its ligand CCL21 regulate migration and invasion of lung cancer cells through the ERK1/2 pathway under hypoxic conditions and promote metastasis of lung cancer [46]. Therefore, the complicated regulatory mechanisms controlled by hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p may play complex roles in migration and invasion. Despite the necessity for further studies to understand these mechanisms, our findings suggest a crucial role for miR-125a in lung cancer.
The results from this study demonstrate that hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p, two miRNAs that are downregulated in NSCLC, are associated with lymph node metastasis. In vitro functional studies in lung cancer cells revealed that hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p appear to play opposite cellular roles, suppressing and enhancing cell migration and invasion, respectively. Thus, these results may lead to the identification of novel biomarkers and therapeutic strategies to combat lymph node metastasis.
We are very grateful to Dr. Baoshen Zhou from the Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, China Medical University for statistical analysis. We are also grateful to the members of our laboratory for useful suggestions.
12885_2009_2117_MOESM1_ESM.TIFF Additional file 1: The specificity and sensitivity of hsa-miR-125a-3p and hsa-miR-125a-5p. (A) The specificity and sensitivity of hsa-miR-125a-3p was analyzed by DOC Curve. (B) The specificity and sensitivity of hsa-miR-125a-5p was analyzed by DOC Curve. (TIFF 56 KB)
12885_2009_2117_MOESM2_ESM.TIFF Additional file 2: Prediction of target sites for hsa-miR-125a-3p and target mRNAs in three databases. The target sites for hsa-miR-125a-3p and the target mRNAs were predicted using microrna.org, TargetScanHuman 5.1 and MiRBase webservers to further illustrate results shown in Fig. 4. (TIFF 4 MB)
12885_2009_2117_MOESM3_ESM.TIFF Additional file 3: Prediction of target sites for hsa-miR-125a-5p and target mRNAs in three databases. The target sites of hsa-miR-125a-5p and the target mRNAs were predicted using microrna.org, TargetScanHuman 5.1 and MiRBase webservers to further illustrate results shown in Fig. 4. (TIFF 4 MB)
12885_2009_2117_MOESM4_ESM.PDF Additional file 4: Details of the target genes of hsa-miR-125a-3p. Details of the target genes of hsa-miR-125a-3p. (PDF 59 KB)
12885_2009_2117_MOESM10_ESM.tiff Authors' original file for figure 5
LJ initiated the research, carried out the experiments, and wrote the manuscript. QH and SZ contributed to translation of the paper. QZ and JC provided experimental instruction. XQ helped with the experimental design and provided funding support. EW provided critical review of the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.
Department of Pathology, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, No. 92 North Second Road, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110001, China
Department of Pathology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, No. 92 North Second Road, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110001, China
Center of Laboratory Technology and Experimental Medicine, China Medical University, No. 92 North Second Road, Heping District, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110001, China
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text:
India Deploys CBRI To Provide Technical Support For Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Of 72 Education Facilities In Nepal
India Deploys CBRI, Roorkee to Provide Technical Support for Post-Earthquake Reconstruction of 72 Education Facilities in Nepal
March 6, 2019, 2:50 p.m.
The Embassy of India, Kathmandu signed an Agreement with the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI), Roorkee, India for post-earthquake reconstruction of 72 educational facilities in Nepal.
According to a press release issued by The Embassy of India Kathmandu, the Agreement was signed by Dr. Ajay Kumar, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of India, Kathmandu, on behalf of the Government of India, and by Dr. Purnima Parida, Group Leader, Planning & Business Development Group, CBRI, Roorkee.
Sushil Gyewali, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), National Reconstruction Authority (NRA) of Nepal and Shri Manjeev Singh Puri, Ambassador of India to Nepal graced the occasion.
The CBRI will provide Design and Project Management Consultancy services for reconstruction of 70 higher secondary schools in seven districts (Gorkha, Nuwakot, Dhading, Dolakha, Kavrepalanchowk, Ramechhap and Sindhpalchowk) as well as the Central Library of Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu and the National Library in Patan, Lalitpur. The CBRI will work with the Central Level Project Implementation Unit (CLPIU) of the Ministry of Education of Nepal to reconstruct/retrofit educational facilities as per the Government of Nepal's guidelines on disaster-resilient reconstruction.
Separately, Shuchita Kishore, Head of Reconstruction Wing of the Embassy of India and Ima Narayan Shrestha, Project Director, CLPIU (Education) signed separate project specific MoUs, laying out the implementation modalities for reconstruction of eight schools in Gorkha and Nuwakot districts.
The CBRI, Roorkee, a premier National Laboratory under the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), is a pioneer in India for research in the field of shelter planning, building materials, structures, foundations and disaster mitigation.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
Q: HTML5 srcset: is 1x mandatory? When using a responsive image set with  without breakpoints (i.e. without the sizes attribute) you typically provide several versions of the same image in different resolution which you then define in the srcset attribute using the pixel-density syntax, e.g. 1x, 2x, 3x
However, usually the 1x version of the image is just the same image that is already defined in the src attribute, so it's a bit redundant. Thus I am wondering - is defining the 1x version of an  in the srcset parameter really necessary/mandatory?
When using only

instead of

then at least FireFox will properly display the 350x150 image and as soon as the zoom level/dppx is > 1 it will use the 700x300 image.
Omitting the 1x definition in the srcset would save a few bytes, especially on a page with a large thumbnail gallery for example.

A: The Specification says:

If child has a src attribute whose value is not the empty string and source set does not contain an image source with a density descriptor value of 1, and no image source with a width descriptor, append child's src attribute value to source set.

Which means you can omit the 1x source if it's the same as the src attribute, but you can not do that if you are using width descriptors.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


One of the leading hotel chains operating all over the world is Carlton Hotel. It has its hotels operating in Singapore, UK, Netherlands, Belgium and India. The luxurious hotel adds to the beauty of Lucknow and is located at the Ram pratap Marg, Lucknow. It is easily accessible from Lucknow Airport. Well-furnished amenities make it rank to be one of the top ten options in the locality as such. Hazratganj is the commercial hub of lucknow, and it is where you see the prominent Carlton Hotel.
It is situated in the civil lines and also built by the famous architect Mr. Carlton, during the year 1948, for the Maharajah of lucknow in a palace style. Tremendous changes have come down and the updating and renovations in the facility done periodically have made it to be one of the latest best with all amenities needed for a class hotel of this category.
The 5 star hotel boasts remarkable facilities with top class hospitality. The hotel comprises of 28 rooms in all, of which, there are 17 suites, 1 single room and 10 double rooms. The rooms are designed in an appealing manner with outstanding facilities like AC, telephone, well equipped bathroom, television, channel music, 24 hours room service and coffee/tea maker.
Additional facilities include beauty parlor, shopping arcade, laundry service, gift shop etc. Pets are allowed in the hotel and the hotel has links with experienced doctors who visit in case of emergency.
With all the luxury facilities offered by the hotel, it ranks among the most preferred choices of the guests.
It looks impressive and so posh, but I'm afraid I would not afford to stay here :-(. I'm only a budget traveler. By the way, how much does it cost to stay here for one night?
You are right Agness Walewinder! This hotel is very expensive for staying to a normal persons and budget travel. I'm also tourist and recently come back all hawaii tours with my business partner. Hawaii is the best state for visiting and sees the natural beauty of God. What is your favorite city in the world and which city do you like to visit mostly?


Have I mention that there are only two more days of 2011? I wonder how many more blog posts I can jam into this year. Did I also mention that 2012 is going to be The Year? Underline the The and pronounce it thee.
I did an interview last month for a radio show 30 Minutes of Wisdom. I talked about alignment blah blah blah wonderful life blah blah it's that important (italicize that). You can listen to it here (click), if you're interested.
As I wrote about last month, writing stuff down, especially goals, is hugely important. I don't know why. There is just something very different about writing it -- making the words concrete -- as opposed to carrying it around between your ears. That's why I was über (OH YEAH!) excited to get some year-in-review questions sent to me by the hosts of the program.
I suggest you, and maybe even your entire family, go through these questions as a New Year's Eve event. Almost as good as artichoke dip, but without all the sodium. I enjoyed doing mine as it helped focus on the fact that this past year, I've done some amazing things with my health. I haven't been sitting around doing loads of laundry, although many days that's all I've accomplished. I bet you discover a little bit of your own greatness too. I'm sure you can answer these in general terms (find a downloadable .pdf on their website -- click) but I am adding the word "health" to each question because that's what this blog is about.
Evaluate your health in 2011: Define health as that state of feeling happy in all aspects of yourself -- in the body, in the mind, and in the soul, and being pain, disease, and medication free. I'm going to post my answers because, if writing them down causes improvement, who knows what writing them out in a blog post can do!
1. What was your biggest (health) triumph in 2011?
Delivering my baby naturally, at home was a physical feat unlike no other.
2. What was the smartest (health) decision you made in 2011?
Moving out of urban California and into a smaller, more quiet place where I could live mo bettah.
3. What one word best sums up and describes your 2011 (health) experience?
Maintenance. I wouldn't say I made any leaps or bounds in terms of health this year, but I spent all of my time learning to deal with being a new mom and still finding time in 5-minute increments to work on stretching my hips, strengthening my shoulder girdle, etc.
4. What was the greatest lesson (about health) you learned in 2011? I think I just learned it last week, watching my son trying to crawl/climb up a box without putting down a wooden spoon he just found. He fell and was frustrated. I actually said aloud, "you can't do it all -- you're going to have to put something down." And then I was like, Ah $h!t. I get it. Time to put something down, Katy Ann. Not the blog though. I picked "showering daily" instead.
5. What was the most loving service that you performed in 2011? Probably this blog. I love my family and do everything I can for them, but every post, email answered, and comment read is how I show my love for my human counterpart. To love is to serve. I have information that can help many. I make my living out of it as well, but will always (always) spend the bulk of my time offering free service.
6. What is your biggest piece of "unfinished (health) business" in 2011? Scar tissue -- just a tiny bit (see number 10). I've been working on it, but it looks like it's going to take some of 2012 to heal.
7. What (about your health) are you most happy about completing in 2011? I wrote a FREAKING BOOK, dude. It totally helps my brain to have it down on paper, where I can just say, You Want To Understand More? Get the book.
8. Who were the three people with the greatest impact on your (health) life in 2011? Not counting my husband, who takes the best care of me, I'd say my midwife, my favorite body workers (Anna, Cindy, Jenna, Tim), and my baby in utero, because I didn't realize that I could stop coffee, take 2 naps a day, work less, and feel joyful. But I could, and I did, and it was good!
That was seven people. I have a problem with limits.
9. What is the biggest (health) risk you took in 2011?
Probably driving from CA to WA. I thought my hamstrings were going to revolt and beat the crap out of me. Next time, I'll walk, thanks.
10. What was your biggest (health) surprise in 2011?
That as healthy and prepared as I was, I still had a freak complication following my delivery, which almost killed me. And that, coming back out of it took diligent work, but that I got my body back 110%, and in only about four months.
I'm not just the president, I'm also a customer!
11. What important (health) relationship improved most in 2011? Food, food, food! Before we moved, we shopped only at farmer's markets and Trader Joe's, thinking that we were doing awesome. THEN we moved to a place that has only some giant grocers (ick), or lots of fresh produce. Now all three meals a day are made from scratch and are mostly plant-based.
13. What compliment would you have liked to have given but didn't? I didn't get to tell the surgeon who saved my life, "Hey, thanks for saving my life." I know my hub wrote him a letter, but really, I should have found his address, knocked on his door, laid down without any pants on and my feet on either side of his front door and said, "Hey, do you remember me? Thank you for saving my life" because he might not recognize me otherwise.
14. What else do you need to do or say to be complete with 2011?
Where are all of my socks? I started this year with 9 full sets. Now I'm down to 4 singles? What's up with that?
1. What would you like to be your biggest (health) triumph in 2012? I would like to figure out my fatigue a bit more. There are still areas that I can reduce my physiological tax. I was off of caffeine, but that cup a day has crept back in.
2. What (health) advice would you like to give yourself in 2012?
You're taking on too many projects. Or, you need to not be overwhelmed by them. Do what you can do. Look at what is truly important to you and let the others go. Make sure that ANY project you take on supports your greater interest in well-being. If a project causes you stress, it's working against your internal desire to be stress-free. Let it go.
Oh, and take a nap at least once a week. The only one keeping you from doing that is you. I promise, nothing great is going on during that one hour anyways.
3. What major effort are you planning to improve your health results in 2012? My indoor monkey bars are awesome. Now I'd really like a small climbing wall to install itself in my garage or something. Please.
5. What major (health) indulgence are you willing to experience in 2012?
I would like to indulge in a few weeks on a Greek island, hiking, eating, swimming, and wearing a toga. I will even teach others alignment while I'm there, if they'd like to come with me.
7. What are you looking forward to learning (about health) in 2012? I am most interested in practicing my Vipassana meditation more, and working towards non-attachment. I'm good on *stuff*, not so good at allowing others to choose to be disappointed. Reading the Upanishads and a book on Jesus Christ now, hoping to learn more.
9. What about are you(r health) are you most committed to changing and improving in 2012?
10. What is one as yet undeveloped talent you are willing to explore in 2012? Letting others help me. I have no knack for it, yet it's getting to be quite necessary!
11. What brings you joy and health and how are you going to have more of that in 2012? Walking, cooking, taking baths, stretching -- these all make me healthier than when I'm not doing them. And, all I have to do is do them. No fancy plan needed!
12. Who or what, other than yourself, are you most committed to loving and serving in 2012? Everyone interested in alignment science!
13. What one word would you like to have as your (health) theme in 2012?
Now it's your turn. Just go for it! Post one of your answers here to inspire others or get some cheers and praise for your general awesomeness!


text:
Q: Android browser bug? div overflow scrolling Can you make the overflow content of a div scrollable in the Android browser?
It is scrollable in all other modern browsers.
In iOS it is scrollable - however it does not show scrollbars - but it is scrollable via dragging.
A simple example:
http://jsfiddle.net/KPuW5/1/embedded/result/
Will this be fixed soon?

A: overflow: scroll; is supported as of Android 3 (API 11).
For a cross-platform (namely iOS <=4.3.2) Cubiq iScroll is an easy-to-implement fix.

A: You could try touchscoll.js for scrollable div elements

A: Android 3.0 and higher have support for overflow:scroll, on < 3.0 it's another story. You might have some success with polyfills like iScroll, however that does come at a cost. It's difficult to implement on sites with complex layouts, and you need to a call a method everytime the content on your site changes. Memory use is also an issue: on already underpowered devices performance may lag because of these kinds of polyfills.
I would recommend a different approach: use Modernizr to detect support for overflow scrolling , add a class to your html tag and use that to rewrite your CSS so that pages scroll 'normally' instead of in a box.
/* For browsers that support overflow scrolling */
#div {
    height: 400px;
    overflow: auto;
}

/* And for browsers that don't */
html.no-overflowscrolling #div {
    height: auto;
}

A: Just for completeness:
The scrollbars are actually there in Android 2.3, but they are very buggy and by default they are styled to have 0 width, so they are invisible.
You can make them visible by adding styling like:
::-webkit-scrollbar {
    width: 30px;
}
::-webkit-scrollbar-track {
    background-color: $lightestgrey;
}
::-webkit-scrollbar-thumb {
    background-color: $lightgrey;
}

However, the thumb element is not draggable, you can only move it by tapping the track underneath or above it.
Also, these styles will change the look of your scrollbars in all webkit browsers, so best you should add a class that only applies to Android 2.3.

A: You can make a DIV scrollable in Android by defining the styles of the scrollbar in your CSS.
This article show you how to do it:
http://css-tricks.com/custom-scrollbars-in-webkit/


Book: Genesis (1), John (1), Ephesians (1), James (1).
Service: Special event (6), Sunday 10:30 (1), Sunday 09:00 (1), Sunday 19:00 (1), Sunday 18:30 (1).
Preached by Fran Finn on 2nd December 2018 (Sunday 10:30).
Preached by Roy McCloughry on 18th November 2018 (Sunday 09:00).
Preached by Ben Wildman on 29th April 2018 (Sunday 19:00).
Preached by Gareth Black on 11th February 2018 (Special event).
Preached by Andy Moore on 11th February 2018 (Special event).
Preached by Gareth Black on 10th February 2018 (Special event).
Preached by Andy Moore on 10th February 2018 (Special event).
Preached by Adam Pogue & John Nelson on Unknown Date (Special event).
Preached by Will James on Unknown Date (Sunday 18:30).


Hypoallergenic: A healthful alternative for dogs with sensitivities to grains. Made with low-glycemic fruits and vegetables, including nutrient-rich green peas, red lentils and chickpeas.
Naturally formulated dog food for large and giant breeds including German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and Dobermans.
All-natural dog food holistically formulated for all life stages and activity levels. Made with all-natural, hormone-free chicken and duck, rich in the essential amino acids needed for building and maintaining lean muscle mass.
Formulated for hard working and active dogs, along with overly lean dogs, and pregnant and nursing females The unique combination of modest protein and high fat from premium, all-natural ingredients helps working dogs, including pregnant and nursing females, obtain the nutrition needed to keep up with the physical and mental demands placed on them. The diet's high caloric content and nutritionally dense kibbles, help overly lean dogs maintain or gain weight – while eating less food.
Naturally formulated dog food for Field Dogs including Labrador and Golden Retrievers, Hounds, and Setters. The nutritionally-dense kibbles give active dogs the proper nutrition they need for maintaining an ideal weight and energy level. Readily available energy from wholesome sources, including chicken fat and canola oil, maximizes stamina and performance.
Formulated for all dogs over 50lbs. The diet's nutritionally-dense kibbles and highly-digestible ingredients assist in mitigating digestive upset and maximizing nutrient absorption - helping large breed dogs maintain a healthy weight.
Low-fat dog food formulated to help maintain the health and vitality of older and less-active dogs. Reduced calorie and fat levels help mature dogs maintain optimal weight as their metabolism slows and activity levels decrease and overweight dogs reduce the buildup of body fat and maintain leaner muscle mass. Made with the highest quality sources of meats, grains and fats to aid in easy digestion and maximum nutrient absorption.


text:
The purpose of our visit was to attend to the further progress of the Medical Centre being built with funds raised by International Needs, an NGO working to make a difference in some of the more deprived parts of the world of which Burkina Faso,a former French colony in W. Africa, is amongst the poorest. The Centre is located in Sector 11,an area of new housing on the outskirts of Bobo, the second largest town in the country with a population roughly equivalent to that of Merseyside. It was also planned to do some teaching in La Bonne Nouvelle, the International Needs School adjacent to the Medical Centre.
The first two phases of the Centre, made up of two blocks comprising consulting rooms, a pharmacy and a laboratory, are well on the way to completion and our arrival accelerated progress. The money we donated will help substantially with the connection of electricity leaving regular water supply as the one major issue to be resolved. The internal fittings and decoration are of a standard not normally found in these parts.
Whilst there, a major task was to empty a container of a range of medical equipment. The whole community, including women and children, was involved in this exercise allowing them to see inside the Centre, their Centre, for the first time. They were suitably impressed. The girls were particularly impressed with the flush toilets, a novelty in these parts.
When the third phase, a maternity unit, is complete, the Centre will help in overcoming the endemic health problems of the area, many of which impinge directly on local women. Too many of them die prematurely especially during childbirth, accounting for the high proportion of orphans. Women play a key role in this society, both as mothers and you can witness outstanding examples of care, and in making a contribution to the family income. In this largely Muslim society, we saw examples of women becoming more politically assertive in support of a variety of women's occupations.
Ranked with access to medical support, the availability of a free school education for all is another major requirement if Africa is to escape the poverty cycle in which too much of the continent is trapped. A free, universal education for all up to the age of 14 was established in England in 1870. Education in Burkina is neither free nor automatically available to all. The country is in a century old time warp. There are schools available and children do attend but it does depend on parents ability to pay. It is ironic when we consider here in England a paid education is regarded as the privilege of the rich. Nevertheless, the International Needs school is making a significant contribution to improving opportunity and standards. Facilities are limited and large classes impose a strain on resources but it is fully staffed and running a complete timetable for over 300 children covering an age range from 11 to 19.Pupils are keen and co-operative and a pleasure to teach.
Whilst there, we observed an outstanding example of pupil initiative. Taking place at lunch-time, a number aged 14-16,assembled voluntarily in a classroom and, led by two girls, engaged in an organised Christian service reading, praying and singing, accompanied by a boy on the bongo drums. As they sang, they swayed like willows in the wind as only Africans can do. It was an example of self motivation of which any school in England would have been proud. It would seem these good people are naturally spiritual perhaps because they know from experience that man alone is not in control of his own destiny.
This was a wonderful trip, both demanding and full of reward. Many thanks are due to all those who gave encouragement and support.


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text:
This Victorian Life
First Wheel in Town
Love Will Find A Wheel
A Rapping At the Door
Delivery Delayed
A Trip And A Tumble
Three Women Awheel
Talks, research help, etc.
Sarah's Writing Den
Victorian Food
Victorian Poetry
19th c. Articles Index
Historical article
A Supernatural Swindle:
An Experience in Transcendentistry
By Tudor Jenks
Godey's Magazine. February, 1896. pp. 145-148.
 So long as life glides by with unruffled surface, men of my disposition are content, whether they be emperors or scullions. Fusses, rows, adventures or happenings are to me bores insufferable, one and all. If fate had made me a reformer or a conqueror, I would have resigned any claim to a quiet life. But on the front of my house, my name precedes the letters D.D.S., and in my back parlor is a chair that is meant to receive the victims of cold and hot drinks, candy, and other substances inimical to enamel and dentine. Being a dentist, I felt aggrieved when selected to figure in a ghost-story. Not that my electric drill ever went upon a career of crime, perforating a patient's brain, or that the gas-bag slew its victim. It was not the ghost of a friend or even of an acquaintance. A complete stranger's ghost thrust himself upon me without excuse, and long after office hours.
I was working late, on a difficult plate, when I heard a sepulchral groan from the operating-room. I know it was sepulchral, for an ordinary groan is, to men of my profession, a mere incident of the day's work.
I looked toward the room, which was unlighted, and said, "Dear me!" The groan was repeated, and I advanced to the door, peering in. I saw a waving, light-green figure rocking itself to and fro, just within the fancy glass folding-doors. It must have seen me, for, with the preface of another groan, it said:
"Oh—h! are you a dentist?"
"Yes," I replied. "what is it?"
"Oh—oo—oh!" it replied, advancing toward me; "I am a ghost, and I have a horrible toothache! Oh-h!"
"If this is a joke," I said, severely, "it is one I do not relish. Why do you haunt me with your supernatural toothaches? Go haunt the candy-maker, or the cook. You're not one of my patients, are you?"
"No—o—oh!" wailed my visitor. "But you were the nearest dentist, and —ouch! This is worse than dying!"
"But you have no power over me," I insisted, boldly. "If you come as a ghost, go haunt someone who deserves it. I haven't slain anyone. Go find a vivisectionist. If you come as a patient, you're too late. It's long after office hours. Didn't you see my sign?"
"Yes!" declared the green visitant, in a voice of triumph; "I saw your sign,
and therefore do I claim dominion—ow!—over you!"
"In what way?" I demanded.
"Come," said the ghost, in a tone so commanding that I followed involuntarily.
Drifting to the front door, which noiselessly opened at its approach, the ghost stationed itself upon the front stoop and pointed meaningly to my sign. Obeying the gesture I read the fatal words:
TEETH EXTRACTED WITHOUT PAIN
 "Well?" I said, uneasily.
"Well," said the ghost, "by that bold and shameless falsehood I claim the right to haunt you."
"Ah, I see," was my reply; "you make the usual error. That sign is quite correct. It doesn't mean all teeth extracted without pain; it means some teeth."
"Is it so?" asked the poor ghost, as it clapped a nebulous hand to its transparent cheek, and rocked again; "and what teeth come out painlessly?"
"Milk-teeth," I replied.
"Alas!" cried the shadowy thing, "then what shall I do?" and it groaned in pain and despair.
"Come," I said, my professional pride asserting itself, "you see it is useless to bully me; but though a dentist I am not insensible to human suffering. Float into my operating-chair and let us see what is the difficulty."
I followed the green haze as it blew into the room and settled itself upon my cheerful red cushions. I touched the button, and the room was flooded with the electric light. Then, turning to my patient, I saw an empty chair!
"Confound the creature!" I broke out impatiently, "it's gone." But I was relived to hear another expression of pain, and I added, "So you're here yet, are you?"
"Yes," said the thing, "but I am not visible in the light."
I turned off the current and I saw the filmy presence still in the chair.
"Now, let me see," I said; "open your mouth."
The mouth was opened, much as a smoke-ring expands. Then by careful examination I saw that the troublesome tooth was a mere shell.
"Yes, yes," I said; "I see, I see. We'll make it all right in a minute, my dear—"
"Sir—ow!" the ghost interjected.
"My dear sir," I went on, automatically. It was my usual formula for calming my patients while I selected the peculiar forceps indicated—in this case the right premolar.
"Now," I said, arranging the instrument correctly in hand, "let me see which tooth it was—"
As the ghostly jaws parted I gripped for the tooth, but to my surprise the forceps went right through it without meeting any resistance; and at the same moment the ghost closed its smoke-like jaws over the instrument, leaving the forceps inserted in its nebulous head.
For the first time during the interview I was a little unnerved.
"This is—extraordinary!" I gasped. "I don't see just how I am to operate on you. I get no grip at all. I can't pull the wraith of a tooth, you know."
"I feared as much," exclaimed the unfortunate shade, with a touch of foggy tears. "And what—ow!—am I to do? Am I to go on through countless years with this excruciating pain? Even death would be a relief, and it is denied me!"
It was certainly a trying situation, and I set my wits to work to devise a remedy. But the ghost was beforehand with me.
"Eureka!" it exclaimed. "You must ghostify your forceps!"
"Ghostify?" I asked.
"Why, certainly," said the ghost, almost joyfully. "You have a crucible?"
"Yes, several."
"Very good. Put the forceps into the crucible, volatize it, and then it will belong to my own state of matter."
"We can try, at least," I answered.
So we went into the laboratory, and I deposited the forceps in my largest crucible, arranging a bell-glass over it to retain the vapor. I turned the Bunsen-burner on full blast, and before long was gratified to see the forceps lost its lustre, its hardness, its shape, and melt. In a few minutes more I saw a metallic mist condensing upon the bell-glass.
"Aha!" the ghost cried (it was invisible because of the light), "let me take it out for you. Extinguish the light, please."
I did so, and saw the ghost insert its shadowy hand beneath the glass, and withdraw an equally vague forceps.
"Now," the ghost went on, joyfully, "we have it;" and it preceded me to the operating-chair, and was seated before I entered the room.
"Here," said the ghost, extending toward me the ghostified forceps.
I reached out my hand and tried to take it. It had no substance, and my hand closed upon some hot—exceedingly hot—space.
"Ouch!" I said, in my turn. "I can't get any hold on the thing!"
"Blame the luck!" the ghost ejaculated, flinging the instrument aside in anger; whereupon the forceps floated gently away, as the ghost nursed its aching jaw.
"Stay," I ventured, after a moment's reflection; "why don't you pull your own tooth?"
"By the stroke of midnight, so I will!" responded the suffering spirit, heartily.
It wafted itself after the floating tool, grasped it, and returned to the chair.
"How do you work it?" asked the ghost.
"Oh, just anyhow!" I replied, impatiently. "There's no trick about it. Just catch a firm hold, and yank all you know how."
"But won't it hurt?" asked the shade.
"I shouldn't wonder," I said, airily; "it often does. But you musn't mind that. You're the dentist now, and needn't think about the patient."
"That's all very well," said the ghost, ruefully, "providing I wasn't the patient, too. I suppose there's no help for it, though."
Then the ghost, with many a wavering twinge, adjusted the sublimated nippers, and pulled with all his vaporous might. The operation was over in a minute and was entirely successful. It was not long before the ghost was quite his jolly self again.
He leaned comfortably back in my chair, and was disposed to chat a little.
"If that last plan hadn't succeeded," it said, reflectively, "there were two others I might have tried."
"Indeed?" I asked, with a yawn, for the night was nearly gone.
"Yes; I might have made a ghost of you, for one thing," the ghost remarked, with a purplish gleam of humor in its phosphorescent eyes.
"Could you have done that?" was my question, while the second qualm of that night passed along my backbone.
"Easily," said the ghost. "Oh, it's nothing much. You wouldn't have really minded after it was over. Why, if you'd like to try—"
But I interrupted him.
"What was your second plan?"
"I might have found the ghost of a dentist. Still, that's not so easy. I should have had little to go on, as we know each other mainly by the inscriptions cut in the epitaphs, and there is nothing said about dentists, so far as I have noticed. I might have gone to all the assemblages for miles around—yes, even to the crematories."
"No matter now," I said. "It is nearly morning, and I'd like to get a little sleep. So if you will kindly pay me for the operation—"
"What operation?" asked the green scamp, with an unconscious expression.
"Extracting the tooth," I replied, firmly.
"Indeed!" sneered the ghost. "I certainly shall not pay you for work I did myself. What assurance!"
The argument staggered me.
"But," I went on, rallying to the attack. "I gave you skilled advice."
"Yes," sneered the ghost— "'Take hold anyhow and yank!—skilled advice, you call it?" and laughed most hollowly.
"At least," I burst out in anger, "pay me for the forceps you ghostified."
"There might be some justice in that claim," the green swindler admitted; "but even if I allow the claim, I don't see how I am to pay you— 'there are no pockets in a shroud,' you know." Again that fog-horn laugh.
"You are a common swindler!" I broke out, shaking my fist in his face.
"Strike right through me, if you find it relieves your feelings," said the mocking ghost. "I assure you I shall not mind it in the least. In fact, however, you must admit that I am not a common swindler, for ghosts are most uncommon swindlers. Still, I do not wish to leave you unrewarded. You have shown me some attention, even if your uterior object was mercenary. I will in return inform you of a secret that will make you a fortune. Listen."
Ascending from the chair, the pale mist was borne toward me. I was impressed by the weird intensity of the being's eyes, and listened breathlessly.
"Just beyond the great Washington Bridge, on the Harlem River, is buried—"
But here came a faint cock-crow from the yard of a chicken-fancying neighbor, and, with a final shriek of anguish or derision, the ghost vanished.
I think it sounded like derision.
Next day I removed the inscription relating to the painless extraction of teeth, and I have since been undisturbed.
Coloring pages for trick-or-treaters
Just drag them onto your desktop and print!
If you enjoyed this piece, you might also like these:
Fiction for stormy nights:
A Burglar, A Bicycle, and A Storm (Fiction—1896)
October / Hallowe'en:
The Autumn Woods (Poem—1888)
In Nutting Time (Poem—1890)
October (Poem—1888)
Song for October (Poem—1888)
Get this image on a card, poster, bag, mug or special Halloween mug
Victorian ghost story trade card. Note the similarity between the woman and a young Queen Victoria, and the corresponding similarity between the portrait in the background and Victoria's consort Prince Albert. Coincidence? I think not!
Maintaining this website (which you are enjoying for free!) takes a lot of time and resources.
Please show your support for all our hard work by telling your friends about Sarah's books —and by buying them yourself, too, of course!
 Tales of Chetzemoka
In a seaport town in the late 19th-century Pacific Northwest, a group of friends find themselves drawn together —by chance, by love, and by the marvelous changes their world is undergoing. In the process, they learn that the family we choose can be just as important as the ones we're born into. Join their adventures in
First Wheel in Town:
A Victorian Cycling Club Romance
Love Will Find A Wheel:
A Rapping At The Door:
A Victorian Cycling Club Suspense Story
A Trip and a Tumble:
A Victorian Cycling Club Story
***
Words For Parting
Victorian Poetry on Death and Mourning
Love and grief and the two most private, and at the same time the most universal of all human emotions. It is for love that we remember the dead: love of their spirits, love of their vibrancy, love of the good deeds which they did and which live on after them. The poems in this collection were all written by grieving hearts who have now themselves passed over into that great mystery. We can not truly know what death is, yet we know it will come to all of us. In ancient times when a friend told the philosopher Socrates that his judges had sentenced him to death he responded, "And has not Nature passed the same sentence on them?"
Inasmuch as there can ever be any comfort for those left behind, part of it lies in knowing that death is a reflection of life. When it comes we cry, then we take our first faltering steps towards understanding. In time we become accustomed to this manifold enigma which nature has given us, and then ultimately we look towards the future with hope.
If this little book of poems may be of some help to those in sorrow by reminding them they are not alone, then it will have done its work.
Compiled and edited by Sarah A. Chrisman, author of the Tales of Chetzemoka series, This Victorian Life, and others.
Love's Messenger
A Choice Collection of
Victorian Love Poetry
The verses embraced within these pages have been kissed awake after a long slumber. Copied from the fragile pages of nineteenth-century books and magazines, they are the whispers of lovers long entranced. In this beautifully diverse collection of Victorian love poetry high-born ladies and their eloquent beaux keep company with simple maids whose sweethearts pledge their love in simpler —and often much funnier— terms. Prepare for your happy sighs to be joined by occasional giggles while you hold this book close to your heart.
Victorian Secrets
True Ladies
Proper Gentlemen
Victorian Cycles
Hand-built 1890's-style bicycles
Interested in a real time machine? Commission one of our 1890s-style custom bicycles! Custom, hand-made steel frames with wooden fenders and chainguards, leather saddles and cork grips. Whether you are interested in a roadster or a racer, we can build you the period bicycle of your dreams.
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It is said that God couldn't be everywhere that's why he created moms. She is that sweet soul that couldn't do bad to anyone. For an angel like her, this greeting card with cuddly image inside will make for an overwhelming gift.


I have always been an animal lover and this time I have two cats, Izzy a black and white tiger kitty with green eyes and Foxy a beautiful calico with amber eyes. Izzy came into my life when she along with her brothers and sisters were dropped off at my mother's house. My mom found homes for 5 kitties, all except Izzy, my mother already had 3 cats and 2 dogs so even though I was in college I said I would take Izzy.
By the time I got home she had destroyed about 6 feet of carpet in trying to dig herself out. My roomate and I had to pay $500 for new carpet to be installed and our landlord said we could only keep Izzy if we had her declawed, if not we hd to move out immediately. You see, our landord had in the contract no pets but made an exception, which she regretted. Unfortunately my roomate and I had her front paws declawed. Izzy spent 3 days away from us at the vet's and when we got her back she was not bandaged. She walked tenderly for about a week and then started running and playing like normal.
I always thought she was not harmed by the surgery but after reading this site I realize that she was affected. Izzy throws up on a weekly basis, she is always upset afterwards because she does not like making a mess, I think she is doing this because of anxiety, it usually happens after a stanger comes to the house or she hears an argument.
The argument is usually between my husband and me over our other cat Foxy. We adopted Foxy from a shelter when she was 2 months old. She chose my husband, after he picked her up she held onto him and any time he would try to put her down would cry. We took her home and she was very loving and well behaved. At about 7 months old we decided to get Foxy declawed because she was playing with Izzy and scratched her belly hard enough to make Izzy bleed. Izzy was fine and not upset with Foxy but we were worried it could happen again. At this time, I did not realize Izzy's anxiety problem was because of the declaw, I thought she was just finicky with food.
Foxy came home with bandages taped around her front paws and pain medication. After a day I took off the bandages and because it was taped I had to use scissors to cut her fur off. My poor baby cried so much I started crying and had to wait for my mom to come over and help me. Her feet looked fine and once again after about a week of walking tenderly she started to run and play like normal again. She was still very loving and loves to be cuddled.
Anybody reading this, please do not take the chance that your kitty could develop any physical or emotional problems from this surgery, you will regret your actions if you go ahead and declaw. I am very lucky that at least physically my cats are not yet showing any signs.


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Q: should c# static getter be thread safe I am wondering if this class is thread safe
Can I access the Currencies property's getter without performing a lock?
Should I lock my access to the Currencies property within the GetLiveExchangeRates() method?
public class CurrencyManager
{
    public static List<CurrencyModel> Currencies { get; private set; }
    private static readonly object LockObj = new object();

    public CurrencyManager()
    {
        Currencies = new List<CurrencyModel>();
    }

    public static void GetLiveExchangeRates()
    {
        lock (LockObj)
        {
            Currencies = GetSomeFooLiveDataFromInternet();
        }
    }
}

EDIT
How would you refactor it?

A: If you must stick with a static class, I would refactor the class like this:
public class CurrencyManager
{
    private static readonly IEnumerable<CurrencyModel> currencies = Enumerable<CurrencyModel.Empty();
    private static readonly object LockObj = new object();

    public static void RefreshLiveExchangeRates()
    {
        lock (LockObj)
        {
            CurrencyManager.currencies = GetSomeFooLiveDataFromInternet();
        }
    }

    public static IEnumerable<CurrencyModel> GetCurrencies()
    {
        return CurrencyManager.currencies;
    }
}

Renaming the method to something that better describes what is actually happening. When you call it GetLiveExchangeRates, I would expect it to return back the exchange rates rather than void. I'd then delete the constructor all together and create a GetCurrencies() method that returns the collection, or an empty one if the collection is null. It seems like the collection you are exposing, Currencies, should not be exposed publicly as a List as that allows consumers to change it. You haven't explained what the point of the collection is, so I'm making an assumption by trying to infer what is happening through your naming conventions.
If I were to write this, I would probably hide this behind a service instead. Removing the need for the static class. You hold a reference to the exchange rates in your view model/controller/service what-have-you. When you need to refresh them, hit the service again.
Service
public class CurrencyService
{
    public IEnumerable<CurrencyModel> GetLiveExchangeRates()
    {
        return GetSomeFooLiveDataFromInternet();
    }
}

Consumer (viewmodel/controller etc)
public class MyController
{
    private IEnumerable<CurrencyModel> currentRates;

    public MyController()
    {
        // Instance a new service; or provide it through the constructor as a dependency
        var currencyService = new CurrencyService();
        this.currentRates = currencyService.GetLiveExchangeRates();
    }
}

Then your consuming class would use the collection it fetched from the service. If it wants to, it can pass around that collection to other objects that depend on it. When you feel the collection is stale, you re-fetch them from the service. At this point, you probably wouldn't need to do any locking because only the consumer can use the property and can control when it can and will change the property. This lets multiple instances query for the latest exchange rates without having to do a lock and make everyone queue up to receive them.
Ideally, I'd like to see it passed in as a dependency via the constructor, hidden behind an interface, with the rates refreshed at the time they are needed. So instead of fetching the rates in the constructor, I would fetch them lazily when needed. This would let you do the work async (assuming your real implementation is async).
Edit
If you are storing the collection in the static class for caching purposes, you could store the collection in the service, and always return the collection. The only time a new set of exchange rates is returned is when you clear the cache.
public class CurrencyService
{
    private static IEnumerable<CurrencyModel> currencyRates;
    private static object ratesLock = new object();
    public IEnumerable<CurrencyModel> GetLiveExchangeRates()
    {
        if (currencyRates == null)
        {
            lock (ratesLock)
            {
                currencyRates = GetSomeFooLiveDataFromInternet();
            }
        }

        return currencyRates;
    }

    public void ClearRates()
    {
        currencyRates = null;
    }
}

This is more or less an implementation change. Your controller/viewmodel would continue to hit GetLiveExchangeRates(), but it would only fetch them once from your external service. Each time afterwards it would just return the cache. You only pay the locking fee once, then when other objects hit your service concurrently you don't pay the locking fee again.


text:
Deep in the halls of Big Sky High School, there is a science classroom where students cluster in front of the film Chasing Ice. In another room, students discuss the multifaceted If a Tree Falls. And in the auditorium, a jostling, shuffling mass quiets to watch Happiness unfold on the big screen. This is Diversity Week at Big Sky high school.
Thanks to a partnership between the Flagship program, BSDFF, teachers and administrators, Big Sky and Hellgate high schools will host visiting directors, who will show their films and conduct Q&A sessions. Big Sky high school's Flagship coordinator, Scott Matthews, has organized this partnership for the last seven year. Over the years, Matthews has seen an enormous benefit for students.
A documentary film enthusiast himself, Matthews explains: "At its best, documentary film transports kids into new realities and opens up a world of discussion. It allows them to hear first hand from people who've had really extreme experiences. We've been lucky to be able to offer our kids an introduction to documentary, and also to people who've lived some really interesting lives. It gives our kids the opportunity to expand their own possibilities."
Often teachers incorporate the films into their educational curriculum. This year, science classes will kick off their study of global climate change with the film Chasing Ice. The director of the film, Jeff Orlowski, will be at the school all day to discuss the film and answer questions.
Many of the films shown at the high school were made for educational distribution, so directors are often eager to see how students react and what questions they raise.
Teachers, too, appreciate the films. Matthews says, "We've had directors from all over the world show films about every subject under the sun, and I think the teachers really appreciate the directors' time and the festival's effort to bring them into the school because the discussions that are generated sometimes go on for years."
The directors also take time to talk with the Flagship program's young filmmakers. Flagship is a county-wide program that connects students with activities that they are passionate about. This effective prevention program helps youth find healthy interests and good mentors that keep them out of trouble. Matthews says that students love to talk to directors and learn more about how to pursue their passions.
This year, both Big Sky and Hellgate high schools have planned their Diversity Week celebrations around the film festival. Diversity Week is a series of events that explore cultural, sexual and ideological diversity. Among speakers, presentations and discussions, the films are a major part of the program.
"What a resource to be able to bring these directors in," Matthews says. "They are people from all over the world. And I think that it brings a bigger, more global reach to Diversity Week."
Many of the films fit in with Diversity Week's goal to increase understanding and open dialogue around difficult issues.
"The films give our kids the opportunity to be exposed to new groups, or subcultures, and hear directly from them. Missoula is a really hip town, but we are also really isolated. For us to be able to expose kids to a different world is a really important part of our job, and the film festival is a great partner in being able to do that."
Article by BSDFF Promo Team writer Laurel Nakanishi
Posted by Seattle Kate at 3:30 PM


Antievolution.org - Antievolution.org Discussion Board -Topic::Gene Lyons: What in creation are they thinking?
Antievolution.org Discussion Board > Evolutionary Biology > News & Events > Gene Lyons: What in creation are they thinking?
Gene Lyons: What in creation are they thinking?
equated evolutionary biology with atheism, advocating equal time for God.


The club's brand value grew by 63% year on year, despite the club missing out on Champions League football this year and failing to win a trophy.
Man United last topped the rankings in 2012 when it hit $853m in value. The club placed third in the Brand Finance report last year, its lowest position since the study originated.
While Man U's revenues for the nine months to 31 March fell compared to the previous period last year largely due to the lack of Champions League football, the study suggests that its brand value will continue to increase.
Its shirt deal with Chevrolet is worth more £47m a year for seven years, more than double that of its previous deal with AON. Adidas will also become its kit provider for the next 10 years in a deal worth £750m – more than triple what its longstanding relationship with Nike was paying.
Man U is also expected to play in the Champions League next year despite needing to go through the playoffs, which will mean a minimum broadcasting income of €12m and the chance of getting more sponsors on board.
Southampton's brand value grew faster than any other brand year on year (89%) to $183m, largely due to broadcasting revenues.
Champions League winner Barcelona also saw its value grow by 20% to $749m, helping close the gap on Real Madrid, which has the highest revenues of any club.
Meanwhile, last year's most valuable football club Bayern Munich saw relatively flat growth this year, with its value increasing by 4%.
Overall six of the top 10 most valuable clubs were English.
Depending on your allegiance, the start of the Premier League season at the weekend either delighted or disappointed you.
Adidas has announced it will replace Nike as the kit sponsor for Manchester United in a £750m ten-year deal it hopes will generate an additional £1.5bn sales throughout the partnership.
Manchester United and Chevrolet are looking to invoke the football club's illustrious heritage in a video featuring a host of its legendary players to mark the start of the brands' seven-year shirt deal.
Converse and Unicef were among the winners at the Midem event in Cannes yesterday (7 June) where finalists were invited to present their work before a jury of music industry experts and brand marketers.


text:
Decorated vehicles
The mosque asked cars to decorate their vehicles for the occasion. (Peninsula Press/Nisa Khan)
Ray Caldwell 3
Ray Caldwell pictured four of his then club basketball players in August 2014. Three of the four still play for him today and have committed to universities on full athletic scholarships. (@SAFinestbball/Twitter)
An empty swings sit still on Tuesday, April 21, 2020 in Stanford, Calif. (Tylar Campbell/ Peninsula Press)
Rodin statues at Main Quad in Stanford, Calif., Monday, Apr. 13, 2020. (Noah Cortez/Peninsula Press)
Mo Yang leaves her farm in Sanger, Calif., about a three-hour drive away, every Saturday at 2:30 a.m. to get to the Sunnyvale farmers market in time to sell her mix of Western and Asian produce. April 11, 2020. (Vanessa Ochavillo/Peninsula Press)
Empty train cars pass through the California Avenue Caltrain stop on Thursday, April 16, 2020. (Tylar Campbell/Peninsula Press)


text:
Procession of the paper costume in Foz do Douro
From mid-June to mid-September, the União de Freguesias (Union of Parishes) of Aldoar, Foz do Douro and Nevogilde, host the São Bartolomeu parties – a group of activities that liven up the streets and unite populations and visitors.
The procession of the Paper Costume is admittedly the most awaited moment of the festivities, with a history that has already surpassed 100 years and that in the last decade has gained special notoriety in the city.
These are months of work and preparation, with a permanent focus on roots, history and stories of the region. The 2nd French Invasion of 1809 and the Liberation of the City of Porto is the theme for the Paper Costume Contest in 2018, which will take place on August 26. There are meters and meters of paper, surgically worked by dedicated hands that keep this festive moment in the city alive.
This year's edition has 350 extras, from gatherings and associations of the União de Freguesias, who will join the remaining hundreds who visit Foz do Douro to live this unique experience.
The current format is now 75 years old and integrates a route that seeks to reach the main centers of the history of Foz do Douro. The costumes parade begins at 10:30 am and goes through the Cantareira, rich in its fishing tradition.
After the inevitable passage through the charismatic Jardim do Passeio Alegre, a favourite amongst many intellectuals who fill the culture of Foz do Douro and Oporto, the procession continues to Ourigo Beach where the sea baths take place, one of the most noticeable traditions at the São Bartolomeu parties.
These baths are filled with tradition and folktales. Also known as "holy baths", these dives in the waters of the Atlantic – seven, as tradition says – are a way of thanking São Bartolomeu's favors in the last year and for banishing malaria over the next twelve months.
The participants of this year's edition come from Bloco da União de Freguesias de Aldoar, Foz do Douro e Nevogilde, Associação de Moradores do Bairro Social da Pasteleira – Previdência, Associação de Moradores do Bairro Social de Aldoar and Orfeão da Foz do Douro.
People from all different backgrounds and spaces join in this tradition, showing that the city is made of all and with all even in the most popular of its traditions.
9 August, 2018 / News, Curiosities, Featured, History, Suggestions
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