Wednesday, 22 February 2023

New technology turns smartphones into RFID readers, saving costs and reducing waste

The Unconquered Fridge: How Engineers at the University of California San Diego are Revolutionizing Fridge Technology Technology has drastically changed the way we interact with the world around us and the latest breakthrough comes in the form of an innovative new technology developed by engineers at the University of California San Diego. With this new technology, you can open your fridge, open an app on your phone and immediately know which items inside are expiring within a few days. This new tech is revolutionizing the way we shop and store our food. It’s no secret that food waste is a huge problem and can be costly for families and individuals alike. With this new technology that is set to be released soon, we’ll no longer have to be concerned with overbuying and wasting food. To understand how this new technology works we need to look at the research. The University of California San Diego engineers worked for years to develop this technology, and it’s based on several components. First, sensors are placed on the shelves in the fridge that detect the weight or size of the food item. When the weight of the item changes, indicating something is being added or removed, the sensor sends information to the app. The app then pulls up a list of the items in the fridge, showing expiration dates and other important information. This technology also has the potential to be used in other parts of the home and beyond. The same sensors can be used to monitor the temperature inside the fridge, alerting users if it’s too warm or cold in the fridge – thus preventing bacteria growth or freezer burn. The potential for the technology to be used outside of the home is also exciting. Imagine grocery stores being able to keep track of which items are expiring first, or restaurants being able to easily monitor how fresh their produce is. This would not only save money, but also help reduce food waste. The University of California San Diego engineers have certainly tapped into something special with this new technology. It’s not only making the lives of the consumers easier, but also encourages better habits by helping to reduce food waste. The technology is currently being tested and is expected to be released soon. Once this new technology is released, it’s easy to imagine a world in which food waste is drastically reduced. With sensors in fridges, it’s easier to keep track of what items are expiring and how much food is being bought and used. This has the potential to revolutionize the food industry and help us become better stewards of the environment. The University of California San Diego engineers have found an innovative way to reduce the amount of food waste that accumulates each year. With their new technology, users will be able to instantly know which items are expiring, meaning they can plan ahead, reduce the amount of food they buy, and ultimately save money. At the same time, this technology has the potential to be used in other parts of the home and even outside of the home. The sensors and app can be used to monitor the temperature in the fridge to prevent bacteria growth, and can also be used in grocery stores or restaurants to keep track of which items are expiring and to monitor the freshness of produce. All of these changes will help reduce the amount of food waste, which will save money, resources, and the environment. The University of California San Diego engineers have certainly developed a revolutionary technology that will make food storage easier and reduce food waste. The sensors and app will no doubt be a game changer and make it easier for us to better understand and manage our food use within the home and beyond. We look forward to the technology being released soon and can’t wait to see the impact it has on the world.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/new-technology-turns-smartphones-into-rfid-readers-saving-costs-and-reducing-waste

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A method to rapidly align micro-light-emitting diodes at a wafer-scale

Introduction Micro-light-emitting diodes (μLEDs) could be set to revolutionize the technology market in the coming years. These Micro-LEDs are a new type of light emitting diode (LED) that are incredibly small in size, measuring just a few micrometers across. They may be tiny, but they can have huge impacts on the fields of electronics and optics. In fact, μLEDs could have many valuable technological applications, the most exciting of which is their potential to create displays for mobile devices, tablets and virtual reality headsets with unprecedented resolution and clarity. What Makes μLEDs Different from Traditional LEDs? Micro-LEDs are significantly smaller and more efficient than traditional LEDs, allowing them to produce extremely bright light in a small package. This makes μLEDs perfect for creating highly sophisticated displays for mobile devices, tablets and virtual reality headsets, as well as for use in other applications where extremely small yet powerful light sources are needed. However, their small size also makes μLEDs more difficult to manufacture and assemble than traditional LEDs. The Benefits of Using μLEDs The high efficiency and incredibly small size of μLEDs make them the perfect choice for creating much more efficient and powerful displays. μLEDs can produce brighter, more vibrant images than traditional LEDs, while consuming far less energy. They also have much higher refresh rates than traditional LEDs, resulting in a smooth, crisp image quality even at high resolutions. In addition, μLEDs allow for much more precise control over intensity and color than traditional LEDs, allowing for more realistic images. This makes them a great choice for virtual reality displays, where the potential for realism and immersion can be increased by the use of μLEDs. Applications of μLEDs While μLEDs are an exciting new technology with many potential applications, their most exciting prospects lie in the field of display technology. Using μLEDs, it is possible to create displays for mobile devices, tablets, and virtual reality headsets that are far brighter and more efficient than anything else available. These displays can have much higher resolutions and refresh rates than traditional LCD and OLED displays, with improved clarity and brightness. Aside from display technology, μLEDs can also be used in a variety of other applications. For example, they can be used in lighting applications such as headlights, and in medical and beauty devices that require powerful and precise light sources. Conclusion The potential of Micro-LEDs (μLEDs) is only beginning to be seen, but it’s already clear that these tiny light emitters have the potential to revolutionize the way devices are made. With their incredibly small size, high efficiency and powerful light output, μLEDs can be used to create displays with unprecedented resolution and clarity, as well as to power a variety of other applications. It’s no surprise that μLEDs are becoming the technology of choice for many of the world’s leading tech companies.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/a-method-to-rapidly-align-micro-light-emitting-diodes-at-a-wafer-scale

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Monday, 20 February 2023

New pumping strategy could slash energy costs of fluid transport by 22%

Introduction In recent years, there has been an increased focus on finding ways to reduce energy costs and minimize environmental impacts. One of the most innovative solutions to this challenge has been developed by a collaboration between the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) and the Polytechnic University of Milan, who have discovered that by using a technique known as intermittent pumping of fluids through pipes, energy costs can be greatly reduced. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how this technique works, the potential for cost savings, and how it can help reduce environmental impacts. What is Intermittent Pumping? Intermittent pumping is a technique used to minimize energy costs and minimize the amount of energy and resources used to transport fluids. This technique involves the intermittent operation of a pump in order to move a fluid, such as water or oil, through a pipe system. By varying the pump speed, the flow rate and pressure can be controlled, allowing the fluid to be transported in an efficient manner with minimal energy consumption. How Does Intermittent Pumping Reduce Energy Costs? The main benefit of intermittent pumping is that it reduces energy costs by allowing the pump to operate at a lower speed. This is because the pump is only operating intermittently, meaning that it is not running at full capacity for an extended period of time, which can be very costly. By operating at a lower speed, the pump consumes less energy and produces less waste heat, resulting in a lower overall energy usage. The ability to control the pump speed also allows for a greater degree of control over the flow rate and pressure of the fluid being transported. This can reduce energy costs further, as it allows the pump to be operated at a lower speed, while still providing the necessary pressure and flow rate. Environmental Benefits of Intermittent Pumping In addition to reducing energy costs, the use of intermittent pumping can also help reduce environmental impacts. By operating the pump at a lower speed and using less energy, carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions are reduced. This reduction in emissions can help to reduce the effects of climate change and contribute to a healthier environment. Furthermore, the use of intermittent pumping can help reduce water pollution, as it allows for more efficient use of the fluid being transported. By operating the pump at a lower speed and using less energy, less of the fluid is lost through evaporation and seepage, reducing the potential for the fluid to be discharged into the environment. Conclusion The collaboration between the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology and the Polytechnic University of Milan has produced a groundbreaking technique for reducing energy costs and reducing environmental impacts. By using intermittent pumping of fluids through pipes, energy costs can be significantly reduced while still providing the necessary flow rate and pressure. Additionally, this technique can help to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, reducing the effects of climate change, and can help to reduce water pollution by reducing evaporation and seepage of pumped fluids. Intermittent pumping is an innovative and cost-effective solution to energy and resource conservation, and it has the potential to benefit both the environment and the economy.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/new-pumping-strategy-could-slash-energy-costs-of-fluid-transport-by-22

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Development of a self-resonant smart energy harvester

Introduction The Internet of Things (IoT) is quickly becoming a reality. It is a network based on wireless sensor nodes that provide resources and information for various industries, from health care and retail to automotive and transportation. While these sensor nodes offer a wealth of data, their longevity is dependent on their battery life. For the long-lasting use of IoT devices, their batteries must be replaced, or a number of power line connections with complex wiring are required. This is particularly challenging when sensors are installed in geographically inaccessible areas. Replacing batteries or connecting long power lines is time-consuming, dangerous, and costly. The Need for IoT Solutions This is why there is an urgent need for reliable and cost-effective solutions for IoT devices. As the number of IoT devices increases over time, the need for these solutions becomes even greater. Solutions that provide reliable power sources for these devices must be found in order to get the most out of them. In addition, these solutions must be simple, safe, and cost-effective. Advantages of Renewable Energy Sources One of the most promising solutions is harnessing renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower. These sources are becoming more popular, as they are widely available, particularly in remote locations. Solar and wind power are the most popular renewable energy sources for powering IoT devices. Solar power offers the advantage of being able to be stored and used even after the sun has set. Wind power is also becoming increasingly more practical, as more wind turbines are being developed and installed. Harnessing renewable energy sources for IoT devices offers a number of advantages, including being cost-effective, cost-efficient, reliable, and safe. Solar and wind power are also renewable and clean sources of energy. This means they do not produce any pollutants that harm the environment. Additionally, solar and wind power require little to no maintenance, as they do not require any fuel to operate. Challenges to Harnessing Renewable Energy Sources While renewable energy sources have numerous advantages, there are also a few challenges that must be addressed when harnessing them for use in IoT devices. First, the cost of installing and maintaining these systems can be high. Wind turbines, for example, are expensive to install and maintain. Additionally, the amount of power generated by these sources is unpredictable and dependent on the weather. This can lead to power fluctuations and unstable power supply, which can be detrimental to IoT devices. Conclusion Harnessing renewable energy sources is a promising and cost-effective solution for powering IoT devices. Solar and wind power are two of the most popular renewable energy sources, as they are widely available, clean, and require little to no maintenance. While there are a few challenges to harnessing these sources, such as high costs and unpredictable power output, these sources still offer a number of advantages. With further development and research, renewable energy sources can play an important role in powering IoT devices in geographically inaccessible areas.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/development-of-a-self-resonant-smart-energy-harvester

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Neuromorphic semiconductor device achieves world's highest handwriting pattern recognition rate

Introduction Innovations in science and technology often lead to groundbreaking discoveries, one of which is the world’s first neuromorphic semiconductor device created by a research team led by Dr. Yong-hun Kim and Dr. Jeong-Dae Kwon. The team, in conjunction with the Korea Institute of Materials Science’s Surface & Nano Materials Division, have successfully developed a high-density and high-reliability semi-conductive device that uses a thin film of lithium-ion battery materials. This incredible achievement was made possible by producing ultra-thin lithium ions and then combining it with two-dimensional nano-materials. The Need for Innovative Battery Technology In recent years, lithium-ion batteries have become increasingly popular due to their light weight and high energy density. Lithium-ion batteries are found in all sorts of consumer electronics, from smartphones to laptops. However, due to their highly reactive nature, these batteries can be extremely hazardous, as demonstrated by the exploding Samsung Galaxy Note 7 debacle in 2016. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop an alternative and safer form of battery technology. The Lithium-Ion Battery Materials To address the issue of battery safety, the research team led by Dr. Yong-hun Kim and Dr. Jeong-Dae Kwon set out to develop a new kind of battery material. This material is a thin film of lithium-ion battery materials that consists of ultra-thin lithium ions and two-dimensional nano-materials. Ultra-Thin Lithium Ions The research team developed ultra-thin lithium ions by using a new method called “ion-slicing”. This method involves slicing the lithium ions into extremely thin slices, which then allows them to be combined with two-dimensional nano-materials. By doing this, the team was able to form a film that is one atom thick. This makes the film extremely lightweight and durable, while still maintaining its high energy density. Two-Dimensional Nano-Materials To further increase the energy density of the lithium-ion film, the team combined the ultra-thin lithium ions with two-dimensional nano-materials. This combination of materials creates a semi-conductive device that is much more efficient and reliable than traditional lithium-ion batteries. The Advantages of the Semi-Conductive Device The newly developed semi-conductive device has a number of advantages over traditional lithium-ion batteries. Firstly, it is much more efficient and reliable due to the two-dimensional nano-materials that it is composed of. Secondly, the device is much lighter and more durable than traditional lithium-ion batteries, making it ideal for use in consumer electronics. Finally, the device is also much safer due to its high-density and high-reliability, which reduces the risk of explosions. Conclusion In conclusion, the research team led by Dr. Yong-hun Kim and Dr. Jeong-Dae Kwon has successfully developed the world’s first neuromorphic semi-conductive device that uses a thin film of lithium-ion battery materials. This device is much more efficient and reliable than traditional lithium-ion batteries, while also being much lighter and more durable. Furthermore, the device is also much safer than traditional lithium-ion batteries due to its high-density and high-reliability. This revolutionary development in battery technology is sure to revolutionize the way we use batteries in the future.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/neuromorphic-semiconductor-device-achieves-worlds-highest-handwriting-pattern-recognition-rate

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Researchers aim to bring humans back into the loop as AI use and misuse rises

Introduction Artificial Intelligence (AI) is one of the most talked about topics in the world today. From self-driving cars to savvy personal assistants, AI has become a major part of everyday life. Progress in this rapidly evolving field is happening at a dizzying pace, transforming the way business is done, and yet the potential negative implications for society are an afterthought. In this article, we will explore both sides of the coin: the incredible potential of AI as well as the possible pitfalls. The Potential Business Benefits of AI The captivating opportunities that AI presents for businesses are difficult to ignore. With the power to automate mundane tasks, streamline operations, improve customer experience, and offer insights derived from Big Data, AI can make the most complex business processes easier and more efficient. For example, AI-enabled chatbots can improve customer service by automating customer queries and providing timely answers. AI can also be used to develop products faster and more cost-effectively than ever before. For example, AI-based natural language processing (NLP) has enabled companies across industries to develop applications that recognize and respond to everyday language. AI-based automated decision-making can also help businesses get ahead by allowing them to quickly offer customized products that are based on customer segmentation and predictive analytics. The potential to increase revenue, accelerate innovation, and reduce costs makes AI an attractive proposition for businesses looking to stay ahead of their competition. The Downsides of AI While the potential business benefits of AI have made it an attractive proposition for many, there are also serious considerations to be made about the ethical and social implications. The first concern is related to job security. As AI-automated tasks become more and more prevalent, there could be a significant impact on the number and types of jobs available in the future. This could result in greater poverty, as well as a decrease in consumer spending, which could have a rippling effect on the economy. The impact of AI on privacy is also a major concern. Companies are collecting and storing an unprecedented amount of data on their customers, and AI algorithms are being used to analyze and interpret this data. This raises questions of who owns this data and how it will be used. Finally, AI presents issues related to bias, accountability, and trust. AI algorithms are often developed with incomplete or biased data sets, which can lead to inaccurate results. At the same time, current legal frameworks for AI are inadequate for holding tech companies and AI developers accountable for the decisions that AI algorithms make. Conclusion AI presents an exciting new future that could open up tremendous possibilities for businesses, but we must also be mindful of the potential pitfalls. We must strive to create an ethical and responsible framework for AI development and demand that tech companies and AI developers take these social implications seriously. Only then will we be able to truly realize the potential of AI while minimizing its risks.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/researchers-aim-to-bring-humans-back-into-the-loop-as-ai-use-and-misuse-rises

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Are digital humans the employees of the future?

Introduction The advent of artificial intelligence has made it possible for digital humans to enter the workforce, replacing human workers in many roles. Digital humans are computer-generated people who can take on the role of sales reps, presenters, trainers, and even influencers in social media. These digital humans are vastly different from traditional AI, outperforming it in natural language processing, facial recognition, and even emotions. As they become ubiquitous, they are impacting how we work, how we interact with each other, and how we do business. What Are Digital Humans? Digital humans are computer-generated people, sometimes referred to as “virtual humans” or “synthetic humans”. They are created using advanced computer graphics and artificial intelligence, making them indistinguishable from real people. Digital humans are incredibly versatile, and can take on tasks that are traditionally considered to be human-only. They can be used for sales assistance, customer service, multimedia presentation, training, and social media influencer campaigns. The Benefits of Digital Humans One of the primary benefits of digital humans is that they are available 24/7. Digital humans never need to take a break, meaning they can answer customer inquiries, give presentations, and engage in conversations at any time of the day or night. They can also be deployed virtually anywhere, meaning they don't need to be stationed in a physical office or store. Additionally, digital humans can be programmed with multiple languages, making them a great choice for businesses aiming to reach global audiences. Finally, digital humans can stay on-brand at all times, giving you peace of mind that your campaigns are always consistent and professional. The Downsides of Digital Humans As with any technology, there are some drawbacks to digital humans. The biggest concern is that digital humans can lead to the displacement of human workers, which can have serious consequences for people who rely on those jobs for their livelihood. It is also important to consider the ethical implications of digital humans, as some people may feel uneasy about interacting with them. Finally, creating realistic digital humans can be costly and time-consuming, meaning businesses may need to make a substantial investments in order to use them. Conclusion Digital humans are becoming increasingly popular in the workforce, as they can complete tasks that are traditionally considered to be human-only. They are available 24/7, can be deployed virtually anywhere, and can be programmed with multiple languages, making them a valuable asset to any business. That being said, they also come with some drawbacks, such as the potential to displace human workers and the ethical questions raised by their use. Ultimately, businesses must weigh the pros and cons and decide whether or not digital humans are right for them.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/are-digital-humans-the-employees-of-the-future

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Cyclone recovery expected to cost New Zealand billions

New Zealand is facing a hefty bill following the devastating effects of Cyclone Gabrielle. The Cyclone, which struck the nation last week, has caused an incredible amount of destruction and loss of life throughout the country. The national state of emergency was thus extended by a week on Monday. Billions of dollars are likely to be required to recover from the disaster and repair the damages caused by the typhoon. The Prime Minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Ardern, has declared her commitment to helping the affected individuals and restoring their livelihoods. She has overseen the national efforts to cope with the aftermath of the disaster, commanding personnel, resources and strategies to restore order. Aid has been allocated and is being disbursed to the most affected areas. The country is already making efforts to reactivate infrastructure as fast as possible and restore services. Teams of engineers have been sent to effected regions to assess and repair the damages to roads and bridges, as well as restoring telecommunications and electricity services. Meanwhile, health personnel has been hard at work providing medical assistance to those in need. The effects of this natural disaster are likely to be felt long after the cyclone has passed. The magnitude of the damages is likely to run into the billions of dollars, devastating to the economy. The government has made clear that it will work closely with the insurance industry to ensure compensation for the affected persons and businesses. This natural disaster stands to be one of the most costly in recent memory. The damage to infrastructure alone is likely to be huge, but this is only one of the many areas that will require attention. Resources like housing, transportation systems and agricultural sectors have also been affected. Agricultural output is likely to take a hit, and this will be felt in the coming months. The human and social costs of Cyclone Gabrielle have been immense. People have been left homeless, with the government setting up temporary shelters to accommodate them. Countless businesses have also been affected and there is an increasing sense of despair among the affected communities. Considering the magnitude of this event, the rest of the world has stepped up to offer aid and support. Nations from across the globe, including the United States, France, Australia and Japan have sent aid and supplies, as well as volunteers to help with the aftermath. The government has announced a strategy to rebuild the nation following the cyclone. This strategy is likely to be expensive and take many years to fully implement. Resources will be diverted to help those in need, and their losses will be compensated for. Reconstruction efforts are underway, and teams are working tirelessly to repair the damages. Although it is too soon to know for sure, it is likely that the total bill for repairs and reconstruction will run into multiple billions of dollars. This presents a challenge to the government, who will need to find innovative ways to raise funds and sustain the economy during this time of rebuilding and recovery. The length and scale of this disaster have been immense, and Cyclone Gabrielle will undoubtedly go down in history as one of the most catastrophic events that New Zealand has ever witnessed. The nation is united in its resolve to overcome the tragedy and rebuild what has been lost. With the determination of the people and the support of the global community, Cyclone Gabrielle can be overcome, allowing life to return to normal and the people of New Zealand to move forward.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-science-news/cyclone-recovery-expected-to-cost-new-zealand-billions

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Sunday, 19 February 2023

How COVID-19 can impact the heart

The spread of COVID-19 has posed a real threat to public health around the globe, with the virus causing severe respiratory and cardiac problems in some cases. Studies suggest that the virus can cause potentially life-threatening cardiac issues in those infected, with a significantly higher likelihood of major adverse cardiovascular events for those with COVID-19 compared to those without it. Recent research indicates that people who have contracted COVID-19 are 55% more likely to suffer major adverse cardiovascular events, such as a heart attack, stroke or death, than those who remain unaffected by the virus. This is a deeply concerning statistic, which suggests that even if the virus is relatively mild in terms of symptom severity, it can still cause significant damage to the heart. What's more, those with COVID-19 could also be affected by other heart-related issues, such as arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms) and myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle). These conditions can cause varying degrees of discomfort and can increase the risks of sudden cardiac death. The mechanism by which COVID-19 causes cardiac damage is complex and not yet fully understood. It is thought that the virus can directly damage the heart muscle, but inflammation from COVID-19 can also lead to the development of abnormal heart rhythms. In some cases, it has been observed that clots form in the bloodstream, which can further compound the risk of heart attack and stroke. With heart issues related to COVID-19 being more prevalent, it is essential that we work hard to reduce the spread of the virus and protect vulnerable people. Wearing face masks, avoiding large gatherings and frequently washing our hands are all effective ways to minimize the transmission of the virus. For those who have contracted the virus, it is important to follow the advice of your doctor as soon as possible if any symptoms emerge. In some cases, medications such as anticoagulants may be prescribed to help prevent the formation of clots in the bloodstream and reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events. There are also lifestyle changes that we can make to reduce the risk of a cardiac event in those who have had COVID-19. Regular exercise and eating a balanced diet can help to improve cardiovascular health and reduce the chances of heart issues related to the virus. It is also important to quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption if you have been infected. The spread of COVID-19 has been a major concern for public health, but it is clear that the virus can also cause potentially serious problems with the heart. Those who have contracted the virus are at a significantly higher risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, such as heart attack, stroke or death, than those without it. Further, they are particularly vulnerable to other heart issues, such as arrhythmias and myocarditis. It is essential that we take the necessary steps to reduce the spread of the virus and protect vulnerable people in order to reduce the chance of heart-related issues. Moreover, those who have had the virus should seek medical advice immediately if any cardiac symptoms arise and make positive changes to their lifestyle to reduce their risk of potential cardiac problems.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-medical-news/how-covid-19-can-impact-the-heart-1

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Monday, 13 February 2023

What effect will replacing short-haul flights have on carbon dioxide emissions and international connectivity?

Last December, France obtained approval from the European Commission to prohibit short-haul flights with alternatives by rail taking less than 2.5 hours, in a measure aimed at reducing CO2 emissions and combating climate change.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/what-effect-will-replacing-short-haul-flights-have-on-carbon-dioxide-emissions-and-international-connectivity

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