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The main purpose of electrical transmission and distribution networks is to carry electrical energy from the places where it is produced to the places of consumption, where the energy is used. Electrical energy is produced in power plants by generating units, which convert a form of primary energy into electrical energy. Primary energy comes from a number of sources, such as fossil fuels, nuclear energy, hydropower, wind, and solar. The carbon neutrality targets set by the European Union and several countries around the world have driven a transformation characterized by the gradual replacement of synchronous thermal generation based on fossil fuels with Renewable Energy Sources (RES), such as wind and solar. The energy transition, while necessary to achieve the established targets, introduces significant challenges to the stability of Electrical Power Systems (EPS) and electrical grids, since RES do not yet contribute to stability at levels comparable to the generating units of large thermal power plants, whether in terms of inertia, which has seen a notable reduction in recent years, or in voltage control or short-circuit power. This article presents and discusses solutions to mitigate the effect of this reduction in inertia in power plants using synchronous compensators and synthetic inertia emulation using battery storage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stability, Operation, and Control in Power Systems)

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25 pages, 14015 KB

Open AccessArticle

From Concept to Practice: Implementing a Knowledge-Driven Decision Support Platform for Sustainable Viticulture in Montenegro

by Tamara Racković, Kruna Ratković, Marko Simeunović, Nataša Kovač, Christoph Menz, Helder Fraga, Aureliano C. Malheiro, António Fernandes and João A. Santos

Sensors 2026, 26(9), 2843; https://doi.org/10.3390/s26092843 - 1 May 2026

Abstract

Viticulture is highly vulnerable to weather variability and climate change. Growers increasingly face risks associated with extreme weather events, water scarcity, and emerging pests and diseases. To address these challenges, this study presents the development and implementation of the first operational digital decision support platform (DSP) tailored to Montenegrin vineyards within the MONTEVITIS project. The platform integrates IoT sensor data, national meteorological records and high-resolution global climate datasets to provide real-time monitoring and climate projections for vineyard management. The system was piloted in four vineyards representing diverse microclimatic and soil conditions of Montenegro. Key functionalities include phenology, irrigation and disease alerts supported by a user-friendly dashboard, map-based visualisation tools and data export functions. The pilot deployment demonstrated that combining heterogeneous data streams increases the reliability of outputs and enables timely, site-specific recommendations. Challenges identified during implementation include connectivity limitations, gaps in data and variable levels of digital expertise among growers; however, lessons learned point to the importance of continuous stakeholder engagement and institutional support for sustained use. The MONTEVITIS experience demonstrates how digital agriculture tools can bridge tradition and innovation in viticulture. By fostering collaboration between growers, researchers and policy makers, the platform enables adaptive strategies for climate resilience and sustainable vineyard management. Although the platform has been successfully deployed and tested under pilot conditions, a comprehensive long-term validation of its performance and impact on vineyard decision-making remains part of ongoing future work. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cutting-Edge Proximal and Remote Sensing Solutions for Precision Agriculture)

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17 pages, 3718 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Advancing Sustainable Aviation: Bimetallic Co-Mo Catalysts for Bio-Jet Fuel Production from Sunflower and Waste Cooking Oils

by Karoline K. Ferreira, Lucília S. Ribeiro and Manuel Fernando R. Pereira

Catalysts 2026, 16(5), 410; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal16050410 (registering DOI) - 1 May 2026

Abstract

Co and Mo mono- and bimetallic catalysts supported on CNT-H-ZSM-5 composites were prepared and characterized using various techniques. The catalysts were evaluated for the conversion of sunflower oil (SO) into sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) hydrocarbons in the C₈–C₁₆ range. The effects of reduction temperature and metal loading were the main parameters investigated in this study. The catalyst reduced at 600 °C promoted the formation of Mo₂C species, resulting in high SO conversion (84%), complete deoxygenation, and enhanced isomerization within the C₈–C₁₆ fraction. Optimal metal loadings (2.5 wt% Co and 8 wt% Mo) and the bimetallic configuration led to superior performance compared with monometallic catalysts and physical mixtures, clearly highlighting a synergistic effect between Co and Mo species. In contrast, when waste cooking oil was used as feedstock, lower conversion and reduced selectivity toward SAF-range hydrocarbons were observed, which were attributed to the higher complexity and impurity content of this residue feedstock. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Catalytic Materials for Greener Production of Chemicals, Biofuels, and Solar Fuels)

22 pages, 883 KB

Open AccessReview

Valorization of By-Products for Functional Ingredients in Meat and Meat Replacers: A Circular Bioeconomy Approach

by Ana Leite, Lia Vasconcelos, Alfredo Teixeira and Sandra S. Q. Rodrigues

Foods 2026, 15(9), 1567; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15091567 - 1 May 2026

Abstract

To address the pressing dual challenge of meeting global protein demand while mitigating environmental impacts, the food sector must transition to a circular bioeconomy. In this context, this review comprehensively examines the valorization of plant and animal byproducts, emphasizing how the recovery and application of their inherent bioactive and functional compounds can transform waste into high-value resources. Plant processing residues, such as fruit peels and pomace, and animal residues, such as blood and bones, are increasingly recognized as untapped sources of functional ingredients. These by-products yield bioactive compounds with health benefits. Simultaneously, the same or different compounds serve as structural building blocks, offering valuable technological properties. They improve water-holding capacity, texture, and emulsion stability in both traditional meats and plant-based analogs. While upcycling these materials reduces disposal costs and formulation expenses, challenges remain regarding compositional variability, regulatory barriers, and consumer perception of “waste-derived” ingredients. Ultimately, integrating advanced processing technologies such as enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation is essential to building a resilient, sustainable, and circular global food system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Meat and Its Replacers: Green Processing and Quality Innovation)

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25 pages, 343 KB

Open AccessEntry

Techno-Mathematical Fluency

by Hélia Jacinto and Susana Carreira

Encyclopedia 2026, 6(5), 101; https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia6050101 - 1 May 2026

Definition

Techno-mathematical fluency (TmF) is the ability to coordinate mathematical knowledge with technological means—digital and non-digital—to solve mathematical problems and express solutions, by recognising affordances, selecting appropriate tools and data, and integrating them with mathematical ideas in iterative cycles of exploration and integration. It goes beyond instrumental tool use to encompass reasoning, modelling, representation, and communication mediated by technologies, and functions as a form of expertise important for both students’ learning and teachers’ professional practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Encyclopedia of Social Sciences)

18 pages, 647 KB

Open AccessArticle

Uncovering Latent Structure in Gliomas Using Multi-Omics Factor Analysis

by Catarina Gameiro Carvalho, Alexandra M. Carvalho and Susana Vinga

Genes 2026, 17(5), 540; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes17050540 - 1 May 2026

Abstract

Background: Gliomas are the most common malignant brain tumors in adults, characterized by a poor prognosis. Although the current World Health Organization (WHO) classification provides clear guidelines for classifying oligodendroglioma, astrocytoma, and glioblastoma patients, significant heterogeneity persists within each class, limiting the effectiveness of current treatment strategies. With the increasing availability of large-scale multi-omics datasets resulting from advancements in sequencing technologies and online repositories that provide them, such as The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), it is now possible to investigate these tumors at multiple molecular levels. Methods: In this work, we apply integrative multi-omics analysis to explore the interplay between genomic (mutations), epigenomic (DNA methylation), and transcriptomic (mRNA and miRNA) layers. Our approach relies on Multi-Omics Factor Analysis (MOFA), a Bayesian latent factor analysis model designed to capture sources of variation across different omics types. Results: Our results highlight distinct molecular profiles across the three glioma types and identify potential relationships between methylation and genetic expression. In particular, we uncover novel candidate biomarkers associated with survival as well as a transcriptional profile associated with neural system development. Conclusions: These findings may contribute to more personalized therapeutic strategies, potentially improving treatment effectiveness and survival outcomes in this disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Bioinformatics)

19 pages, 15180 KB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Reduced Cortical Bone Compression by Implant Macrogeometry on Peri-Implant Bone Healing: An In Vitro and In Vivo Experimental Study

by Sergio Alexandre Gehrke, Jaime Aramburú Junior, Tiago Luis Eilers Treichel, Antonio Scarano, Bruno Freitas Mello, Márcio de Carvalho Formiga, Sergio Rexhep Tari, Gustavo Coura and Gustavo Vicentis Oliveira Fernandes

J. Funct. Biomater. 2026, 17(5), 217; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb17050217 - 1 May 2026

Abstract

Background: Primary stability and long-term osseointegration depend on bone healing surrounding dental implants. Implant macrogeometry is crucial for controlling insertion torque and the biological reaction of peri-implant bone. This study assessed the impact of an implant design meant to lessen cortical bone compression on early bone healing. Methods: Forty titanium prototype implants (3 × 6 mm) were equally divided into Control (standard macrogeometry) and Test (macrogeometry with healing chambers) groups. Initial insertion torque was measured in vitro using synthetic bone blocks. Subsequently, an in vivo rabbit tibia model was used (n = 10 implants per group) to assess early healing. At 21 days, histological sections were analyzed for bone-to-implant contact (BIC%) at three cervical positions (C1, C2, and C3). Additionally, digital radiographs of the cervical region were evaluated using RGB color mapping, where distinct color channels quantified varying degrees of bone density. Results: The in vitro insertion torque for the Control group was significantly greater than the Test group (8.01 vs. 5.70 Ncm). The in vivo histomorphometric analysis indicated improved integration for the Test design, showing substantially higher BIC% at the C2 (59.30% vs. 40.30%) and C3 (42.10% vs. 17.90%) positions. Furthermore, radiographic RGB analysis revealed that the Test group possessed a higher blue channel contribution, indicating greater mineralized tissue density. Conclusions: These results imply that modifying implant macrogeometry to lower insertion torque and minimize cortical bone compression favorably enhances early cervical bone healing and osseointegration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomaterials Applied in Dental Sciences)

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33 pages, 4406 KB

Open AccessArticle

Individual Indicators of the Learning Process for Identifying Critical Thinking in Students in Adaptive Learning

by Vassiliy Serbin, Mateus Mendes, Aray Kassenkhan, Akbayan Bekarystankyzy, Gulnur Ibragim and Azamat Tolegenov

Mach. Learn. Knowl. Extr. 2026, 8(5), 120; https://doi.org/10.3390/make8050120 - 1 May 2026

Abstract

The rapid digitalization of higher education has intensified the need for reliable methods to assess higher-order cognitive skills, particularly critical thinking, in adaptive learning environments. However, most existing assessment approaches rely primarily on test outcomes and academic performance indicators, which do not adequately capture the multidimensional and process-based nature of critical thinking. This study proposes a multi-criteria hierarchical model for identifying and quantitatively assessing students’ critical thinking based on individual process indicators of learning activity in an intelligent educational environment. The model integrates cognitive, metacognitive, and behavioral indicators, including knowledge dynamics, task complexity, time characteristics, learning activity intensity, error rate, level of doubt, user interaction patterns, and system operating modes. These indicators are aggregated into a three-component structure representing metacognitive awareness, analytical depth, and strategic learning activity. The proposed model was empirically validated through a quasi-experimental longitudinal study involving 500 university students divided into control and experimental groups. The results demonstrate a statistically significant increase in all latent components of critical thinking and in the integral indicator within the experimental group. The model shows satisfactory internal consistency (Cronbach’s

α \geq 0.77

) and acceptable construct validity confirmed by confirmatory factor analysis. The findings indicate that the proposed model can serve as a practical analytical tool for monitoring critical thinking development and supporting personalized learning trajectories in adaptive digital educational systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Learning)

19 pages, 3278 KB

Open AccessArticle

Investigation of the Use of Glass Powder on the Interface Shear Properties of Clay Subgrade Soil

by Jaafar Abdulrazzaq, Qais Sahib Banyhussan, Ahmed A. Hussein, Anmar Dulaimi, Hugo Alexandre Silva Pinto and Luís Filipe Almeida Bernardo

Geotechnics 2026, 6(2), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/geotechnics6020043 - 1 May 2026

Abstract

This study considers the potential of utilizing waste glass powder as a sustainable additive to improve the characteristics of clay subgrade soils. A comprehensive experimental program was designed, wherein a selected clay soil was amended with four distinct contents of glass powder that were finely ground: 0%, 3%, 6%, and 9% by weight. The primary objective was to evaluate the resultant improvements in soil strength and the enhanced interfacial bond between the treated subgrade and an overlying Type B granular subbase layer, which was further reinforced with an SS2 Geogrid. To characterize these effects, a suite of laboratory tests was performed, including the Modified Proctor Test, Atterberg Limits Test, California Bearing Ratio (CBR) test, and a large-scale direct shear test. A specially made large-scale instrument for direct shear was employed for the interface testing. The results demonstrate a clear positive correlation between the proportion of glass powder and the improvement in geotechnical properties. The most significant enhancement was observed at the 9% inclusion rate, which yielded a 6.6% increase in the maximum dry density and a substantial 49% improvement in the CBR value. Concurrently, this optimal mix design resulted in a 14% reduction in optimum moisture content, alongside notable decreases in the swelling and plasticity indices by 33% and 39%, respectively, confirming the efficacy of glass powder in stabilizing the clay subgrade. Full article

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15 pages, 1077 KB

Open AccessCommunication

Microplastic Contamination in Farmed Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss): First Evidence from Bulgarian Freshwater Aquaculture

by Vesela Yancheva, Stela Stoyanova, Elenka Georgieva, Desislava Arnaudova, László Antal, Ifeanyi Emmanuel Uzochukwu, Bartosz Bojarski, Carlos Gravato and Krisztián Nyeste

Microplastics 2026, 5(2), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics5020081 - 1 May 2026

Abstract

Microplastic (MP) contamination is increasingly recognized as a global environmental problem affecting aquatic ecosystems, food quality, and animal and human health. Farmed fish represent an important and increasing component of the human diet. Therefore, understanding potential human exposure to MPs is essential for ensuring food safety. In the current paper, we present the results of a preliminary study conducted in Bulgaria on MP contamination in the muscle tissue of rainbow trout [Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum, 1792)] reared in freshwater aquaculture systems. Edible tissues were analyzed using Laser Direct Infrared (LDIR) imaging spectroscopy, a highly sensitive method enabling rapid detection and accurate identification of polymer types present in samples. MPs were detected in all examined specimens, demonstrating that these particles are bioavailable and capable of accumulating in fish muscle tissues commonly consumed by humans. Moreover, the presence of multiple polymer types suggests diverse contamination sources within aquaculture environments. Although the present findings do not allow direct conclusions about human health risks, they indicate potential risks of trophic transfer and highlight the need for improved monitoring strategies and management practices in farmed fish production. Overall, this study provides novel data on MP exposure in aquaculture species and emphasizes the preventive importance of assessing plastic pollution in fish intended for human consumption. Full article

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10 pages, 257 KB

Open AccessEntry

Transgenerationality in Nursing Care: Implications for Person-Centered Practice and Hospital-to-Home Transitions

by António Almeida, João Tomás, André Maravilha, Luís Sousa and Patrícia Pontífice-Sousa

Encyclopedia 2026, 6(5), 100; https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia6050100 - 1 May 2026

Definition

Transgenerationality refers to the psychological and behavioral elements transmitted across generations. It is intrinsically linked to unelaborated content—such as trauma, grief, secrets, conflicts, and shame—operating through implicit and partially unconscious pathways that manifest in individual behavior. In the context of nursing, transgenerationality explores how nursing care is influenced by these dynamics and how the concept can be utilized to achieve superior health-related outcomes, such as facilitating more effective healthcare transitions. Specifically, it examines how experiences, vulnerabilities, resilience factors, and health-related patterns transmitted across generations affect overall health. As a humanistic profession rooted in person-centered care, nursing must remain cognizant of the impact of this concept on healthcare. This is particularly relevant in clinical settings where nurses are pivotal practitioners, such as mental health, health literacy, chronic disease management, and healthcare transitions. Healthcare transitions represent critical periods in a person’s life, and nurses are present across all contexts to facilitate these shifts. A primary example is the transition from hospital to home, which illustrates the importance of understanding transgenerationality within the roles of both patients and caregivers. Understanding how this concept impacts healthcare allows for the perception of transition as a holistic process. Awareness of these transgenerational operations leads to more personalized care, fostering healthier and more seamless healthcare transitions. The general purpose of this paper is to define and operationalize the concept of transgenerationality within nursing care, emphasizing its critical role in achieving better health outcomes, particularly during hospital-to-home transitions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Medicine & Pharmacology)

23 pages, 489 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Universal Adhesive Brands Functional Performance in Non-Carious Cervical Lesions: 18- to 48-Months Systematic Clinical Report

by Leonardo D’Elia, Lígia Pereira da Silva and Patrícia Manarte-Monteiro

J. Funct. Biomater. 2026, 17(5), 212; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfb17050212 - 1 May 2026

Abstract

Universal adhesives (UAs) exhibit considerable versatility; however, no single commercial product has attained recognition as a clinical gold standard. This study evaluated the functional performance, retention, and marginal integrity of various UA brands in non-carious cervical lesion (NCCL) restorations and examined the effects of different adhesion strategies. A search of electronic databases was conducted for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) published between 2015 and 2025. Only RCTs that assessed the retention and marginal integrity of UAs with follow-ups of 18–48 months, using the USPHS/FDI criteria, were included. This review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD420251026490) and adhered to PRISMA 2020 and PICOS guidelines. Risk of bias was evaluated using the RoB 2 tool; statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05. Of 251 records screened, 23 met the eligibility criteria, resulting in the inclusion of 21 RCTs. Sixteen UA brands exhibited no clear differences in performance outcomes. Etch-and-rinse (ER) and selective enamel-etching (SEE) strategies achieved higher retention rates (median up to 100%; USPHS, p < 0.001), while the self-etch (SE) approach demonstrated lower and more variable retention (median 87.0%). Marginal integrity remained consistently high across all strategies (median 100%; p > 0.05). Although ER and SEE strategies significantly enhance long-term retention, no UA brand showed consistent superiority to be considered a gold standard. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Dental Biomaterials)

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10 pages, 264 KB

Open AccessArticle

Traumatic Stress Among Firefighters: Risk and Protective Factors with Implications for PTSD

by Joana Proença Becker, Rui Paixão and Liliana Bizarro

Psychiatry Int. 2026, 7(3), 91; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint7030091 - 1 May 2026

Abstract

Previous studies indicate that the main predictors of stress-related disorders in firefighters are pre- and post-trauma factors, rather than intensity or type of traumatic event. This study aimed to identify risk and protective factors contributing to the development of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other stress-related conditions in Portuguese firefighters who battled the 2017 forest fires. To assess the prevalence of PTSD and related conditions, a set of self-report measures—including PHQ-15 (somatic symptoms), PCL-5 (PTSD), PSQI (sleep quality), and DASS-21 (depression, anxiety, stress)—was completed by 96 firefighters and 96 individuals from the general population, who served as a comparison group. In addition, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 79 firefighters, focusing on their perceptions of PTSD, exposure to duty-related traumatic events, and coping strategies employed to manage stress. Findings indicated that firefighters reported higher levels of somatic symptoms, sleep disturbance, and PTSD than the general population. Organizational support, working conditions, professional experience and training were identified as protective factors, while a sense of belongingness and peer relationship were considered resources for managing stress reactions. Firefighters also associated social and media pressures with the development or exacerbation of stress-related symptoms. Collectively, these results highlight the relevance of both subjective and contextual factors and may inform prevention, intervention, and treatment strategies for stress-related psychopathologies. Full article

19 pages, 1505 KB

Open AccessArticle

UV-C LED Disinfection of Antibiotic-Resistant Escherichia coli in Water: Integration with Ceramic Membrane Filtration

by Carolina Santos, Lisandra Lopes, João Sério, Maria Teresa Barreto Crespo, Ana Paula Marques and Vanessa Jorge Pereira

Processes 2026, 14(9), 1471; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr14091471 - 30 Apr 2026

Abstract

The growing problem of antibiotic resistance poses a serious threat to public health and ecosystems. New disinfection methods could help address this global issue. In this study, ultraviolet-C light-emitting diodes (UV-C LEDs) were used to inactivate Escherichia coli isolates resistant to antibiotics. These isolates were obtained from various real water sources, including seawater, surface water, and treated wastewater. Inactivation assays were performed using two wavelengths (255 nm and 265 nm), applying UV fluences ranging from 1 to 7 mJ/cm² to a phosphate-buffered saline solution inoculated with a mixture of 10 E. coli strains. Using an UV fluence of 2 mJ/cm², a log reduction of about 5 was achieved with both UV-C wavelengths tested. SEM imaging revealed no observable alterations in cell morphology after UV-C exposure. Pyrimidine dimer formation was quantified, yielding approximately 40 ng/mL of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers after 2 mJ/cm² of exposure to both wavelengths. Additionally, water treatment was tested using ceramic silicon carbide membranes. High average rejection efficiencies (99.9%) were obtained for both total coliforms and E. coli using uncut flat sheet membranes. The combination with UV-C LEDs led to treatment of the concentrated membrane retentate (99.985% or higher), highlighting the potential of this treatment approach for effective water disinfection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Separation Processes)

31 pages, 2758 KB

Open AccessArticle

Energy and Cost Analysis of a Methanol Fuel Cell and Solar System for an Environmentally Friendly and Smart Catamaran

by Giovanni Briguglio, Yordan Garbatov and Vincenzo Crupi

Atmosphere 2026, 17(5), 465; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos17050465 - 30 Apr 2026

Abstract

Maritime transport is under increasing pressure to cut greenhouse gas and pollutant emissions to meet global decarbonization goals and tighter environmental standards. Ship electric propulsion systems offer a promising solution for short-range maritime operations, particularly for small vessels and coastal activities. Full-electric vessels can significantly reduce operational emissions; however, a key challenge is the extensive charging time for onboard energy storage, which can affect operational continuity and logistical efficiency. This study examines mission planning and energy management for a hybrid multi-source electric mail boat operating in the Aeolian archipelago. It evaluates the viability and performance of a daily inter-island route powered by a high-temperature methanol fuel cell, batteries, and photovoltaic panels. A routing and simulation framework was developed to model the boat’s itinerary among seven islands, accounting for realistic navigation speeds, scheduled stops, solar energy availability, and battery state-of-charge constraints. The study analyzes distance, travel time, energy consumption, solar power generation, and fuel–electric usage with high temporal resolution, enabling detailed analysis of power flows during sailing and docking. Several operational strategies were assessed, including periods of increased speed supported by battery assistance and fuel–electric cell output, combined with coordinated energy management to keep battery levels above a lower acceptable threshold while completing the route in a single day. The methodology provides a practical tool for planning low-emission island networks and supports the integration of innovative energy systems into small electric workboats operating in specific maritime regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Low-Carbon, Climate-Resilient, and Sustainable Built Environment)

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