Aarushi Bhadury

Surprising Benefits of One-Week Break From Social Media

Being off social media  (Credit-Canva)

<span>Social media</span> is a great platform to connect with people, learn about their lives and also learn new things. But sometimes all the awareness and <span>online presence</span> can be a burden. Different things affect differently to many people. While there are many benefits of social media, there is also awareness. However, stepping away from the constant stream of updates and notifications can offer numerous benefits for your mental and emotional well-being. Here are some reasons why a one-week social media detox could be just what you need. 

<h2>Benefits of being off social media </h2>

<h3>Increased focus and productivity</h3>

When you're constantly bombarded with notifications, it can be difficult to stay focused on your tasks. Taking a break from social media can help you eliminate distractions and improve your concentration. Without the constant need to check your feed, you can dive deeper into your work and achieve more in less time. 

Social media can often lead to feelings of comparison and inadequacy, as we constantly see others' seemingly perfect lives. This can contribute to stress and anxiety. By taking a break from social media, you can give your mind a much-needed rest and reduce the negative impact of these comparisons. 

The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with your body's natural sleep-wake cycle. By limiting your screen time, including social media, you can improve your sleep quality and wake up feeling refreshed and rested. 

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to become so focused on our digital lives that we neglect our <span>real-world relationships</span>. Taking a break from social media can encourage you to spend more quality time with loved ones and build deeper connections. 

The constant stream of information and opinions on social media can sometimes stifle creativity. By taking a break, you can give your mind a chance to wander and explore new ideas. This can lead to increased creativity and innovation. 

<h3>Improved <span rel="noindex">self-esteem</span></h3>

Social media can often create an unrealistic image of perfection, leading to feelings of self-doubt and low self-esteem. By limiting your exposure to others' curated lives, you can develop a healthier sense of self and appreciate your own unique qualities. 

<h3>Reduced <span rel="noindex">FOMO</span> (Fear Of Missing Out)</h3>

The constant fear of missing out on something exciting or important can be overwhelming. Taking a break from social media can help you challenge these negative thoughts and realize that you're not missing out on anything essential. By focusing on your own experiences, you can increase your contentment and reduce the anxiety associated with FOMO. 

Taking a break from social media can help you establish a healthier relationship with technology. When you return to social media after a break, you may find that you're more mindful of how you use it and less likely to get caught up in the constant stream of updates. 

Health Conditions A-Z

health

Social Media

fomo

online presence

real-world relationships

self-esteem

Mental Health

New Oral Treatment Offers Hope For MS Patients Battling Muscle Spasticity

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Social media is a great platform to connect with people, learn about their lives and also learn new things. But sometimes all the awareness and online presence can be a burden. Different things affect differently to many people. While there are many benefits of social media, there is also awareness. However, stepping away from the constant stream of updates and notifications can offer numerous benefits for your mental and emotional well-being. Here are some reasons why a one-week social media detox could be just what you need. Benefits of being off social media Increased focus and productivityWhen you're constantly bombarded with notifications, it can be difficult to stay focused on your tasks. Taking a break from social media can help you eliminate distractions and improve your concentration. Without the constant need to check your feed, you can dive deeper into your work and achieve more in less time. Reduced stress and anxietySocial media can often lead to feelings of comparison and inadequacy, as we constantly see others' seemingly perfect lives. This can contribute to stress and anxiety. By taking a break from social media, you can give your mind a much-needed rest and reduce the negative impact of these comparisons. Improved sleep qualityThe blue light emitted by screens can interfere with your body's natural sleep-wake cycle. By limiting your screen time, including social media, you can improve your sleep quality and wake up feeling refreshed and rested. Enhanced relationshipsIn today's fast-paced world, it's easy to become so focused on our digital lives that we neglect our real-world relationships. Taking a break from social media can encourage you to spend more quality time with loved ones and build deeper connections. Increased creativityThe constant stream of information and opinions on social media can sometimes stifle creativity. By taking a break, you can give your mind a chance to wander and explore new ideas. This can lead to increased creativity and innovation. Improved self-esteemSocial media can often create an unrealistic image of perfection, leading to feelings of self-doubt and low self-esteem. By limiting your exposure to others' curated lives, you can develop a healthier sense of self and appreciate your own unique qualities. Reduced FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out)The constant fear of missing out on something exciting or important can be overwhelming. Taking a break from social media can help you challenge these negative thoughts and realize that you're not missing out on anything essential. By focusing on your own experiences, you can increase your contentment and reduce the anxiety associated with FOMO. Enhanced digital well-beingTaking a break from social media can help you establish a healthier relationship with technology. When you return to social media after a break, you may find that you're more mindful of how you use it and less likely to get caught up in the constant stream of updates. 

surprising benefits of one-week break from social media

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For many individuals living with <span>multiple sclerosis</span> (<span>MS</span>), muscle spasticity, an often painful and limiting symptom, can be one of the most persistent and frustrating aspects of the disease. Characterized by stiff or tight muscles that resist movement, spasticity can interfere with basic activities like walking, dressing, or even sleeping. But an encouraging breakthrough may be on the horizon.

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati’s Gardner Neuroscience Institute are currently conducting a promising Phase 2 clinical trial for a new oral drug that targets the body’s endocannabinoid system, a natural internal mechanism that helps regulate muscle tone and relaxation. Rather than introducing an external muscle relaxant, this treatment is designed to enhance the body’s own ability to ease muscle stiffness by preventing the breakdown of naturally occurring compounds called endocannabinoids.

“Our goal is to find a treatment that’s not only effective, but also better tolerated during the day,” said Dr. Shahla Hosseini, MD, PhD, in a statement released by the university. “Most existing oral medications come with side effects like drowsiness or fatigue, which can significantly reduce a patient’s quality of life.”

The new treatment under investigation inhibits specific enzymes that normally break down endocannabinoids in the body. These endocannabinoids function like the body’s natural muscle relaxers, but in people with MS, their levels tend to be low. By elevating endocannabinoid levels, the drug aims to restore better muscle control without the sedation that plagues current treatments.

This trial will involve approximately 200 participants from multiple international sites, making it a robust, multicenter effort. Over a period of six weeks, participants will be randomly assigned to receive one of three different doses of the study drug or a placebo. There’s also an optional six-week extension, which allows all participants to potentially receive the active drug and helps researchers compare the varying doses more effectively.

If successful, the trial could pave the way for a new class of medications to be used in tandem with current therapies like physiotherapy and botulinum toxin (Botox) injections. The drug’s oral format also means it could offer a non-invasive, easier-to-manage option for long-term symptom relief.

While this trial is focused on MS-related spasticity, researchers are hopeful that the drug could eventually help individuals with other neurological disorders that impact muscle control, including spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, and stroke. This makes the study’s success particularly significant, not just for those with MS, but for a wider community of patients affected by similar conditions.

<h4>What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?</h4>

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system—including the brain and spinal cord. In MS, the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective sheath (myelin) that covers nerve fibers, disrupting the communication between the brain and the rest of the body. Over time, this can lead to nerve damage and deterioration.

<ul><li>Muscle spasticity or stiffness</li><li>Fatigue</li><li>Difficulty walking or maintaining balance</li><li>Vision problems (e.g., blurred or double vision)</li><li>Numbness or tingling, especially in the limbs</li><li>Cognitive difficulties</li><li>Bladder and bowel dysfunction</li><li>Pain or muscle cramps</li></ul>

Symptoms can vary widely depending on the area of the nervous system affected, and they often come and go in episodes known as relapses.

Diagnosing MS can be complex and typically involves a combination of:

<ul><li>Neurological exams to assess reflexes, vision, coordination, and balance</li><li>MRI scans to detect lesions or areas of demyelination in the brain or spinal cord</li><li>Lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to examine cerebrospinal fluid for specific immune markers</li><li>Evoked potential tests to measure electrical activity in response to stimuli</li></ul>

There’s no single test for MS, so diagnosis often involves ruling out other conditions with similar symptoms.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

health and wellness

multiple sclerosis

MS treatment

For many individuals living with multiple sclerosis (MS), muscle spasticity, an often painful and limiting symptom, can be one of the most persistent and frustrating aspects of the disease. Characterized by stiff or tight muscles that resist movement, spasticity can interfere with basic activities like walking, dressing, or even sleeping. But an encouraging breakthrough may be on the horizon.Researchers at the University of Cincinnati’s Gardner Neuroscience Institute are currently conducting a promising Phase 2 clinical trial for a new oral drug that targets the body’s endocannabinoid system, a natural internal mechanism that helps regulate muscle tone and relaxation. Rather than introducing an external muscle relaxant, this treatment is designed to enhance the body’s own ability to ease muscle stiffness by preventing the breakdown of naturally occurring compounds called endocannabinoids.“Our goal is to find a treatment that’s not only effective, but also better tolerated during the day,” said Dr. Shahla Hosseini, MD, PhD, in a statement released by the university. “Most existing oral medications come with side effects like drowsiness or fatigue, which can significantly reduce a patient’s quality of life.”How the New Drug WorksThe new treatment under investigation inhibits specific enzymes that normally break down endocannabinoids in the body. These endocannabinoids function like the body’s natural muscle relaxers, but in people with MS, their levels tend to be low. By elevating endocannabinoid levels, the drug aims to restore better muscle control without the sedation that plagues current treatments.This trial will involve approximately 200 participants from multiple international sites, making it a robust, multicenter effort. Over a period of six weeks, participants will be randomly assigned to receive one of three different doses of the study drug or a placebo. There’s also an optional six-week extension, which allows all participants to potentially receive the active drug and helps researchers compare the varying doses more effectively.If successful, the trial could pave the way for a new class of medications to be used in tandem with current therapies like physiotherapy and botulinum toxin (Botox) injections. The drug’s oral format also means it could offer a non-invasive, easier-to-manage option for long-term symptom relief.Broader Potential Beyond MSWhile this trial is focused on MS-related spasticity, researchers are hopeful that the drug could eventually help individuals with other neurological disorders that impact muscle control, including spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, and stroke. This makes the study’s success particularly significant, not just for those with MS, but for a wider community of patients affected by similar conditions.What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system—including the brain and spinal cord. In MS, the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective sheath (myelin) that covers nerve fibers, disrupting the communication between the brain and the rest of the body. Over time, this can lead to nerve damage and deterioration.Common Symptoms of MS:Muscle spasticity or stiffnessFatigueDifficulty walking or maintaining balanceVision problems (e.g., blurred or double vision)Numbness or tingling, especially in the limbsCognitive difficultiesBladder and bowel dysfunctionPain or muscle crampsSymptoms can vary widely depending on the area of the nervous system affected, and they often come and go in episodes known as relapses.How is MS Diagnosed?Diagnosing MS can be complex and typically involves a combination of:Neurological exams to assess reflexes, vision, coordination, and balanceMRI scans to detect lesions or areas of demyelination in the brain or spinal cordLumbar puncture (spinal tap) to examine cerebrospinal fluid for specific immune markersEvoked potential tests to measure electrical activity in response to stimuliThere’s no single test for MS, so diagnosis often involves ruling out other conditions with similar symptoms.

new oral treatment offers hope for ms patients battling muscle spasticity

Supriya Ramesh

Think It Is Just a Cold? It Could Be Allergic Rhinitis, and Here is Why Early Testing and Treatment Matter

Credits: Canva

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When the sniffles will not stop and your mornings start with continuous sneezing, it is natural to assume you have caught a cold. But what if it is something more persistent, like <span>allergic rhinitis</span>?

<strong>What is allergic rhinitis?</strong>

Allergic rhinitis is an allergic reaction that occurs when your immune system overreacts to allergens like pollen, <span>dust mites</span>, animal dander, or mould. This common condition is marked by a suite of symptoms, including sneezing spells, a runny or blocked nose, itchy, watery eyes, post-nasal drip, fatigue, poor sleep, and constant coughing. Unlike the common cold, it is not caused by a virus, and symptoms can persist for weeks or months or even all year round. 

Dr. Manish Arya of the ENT, Allergy and Vertigo Clinic points out that “most people with allergies are unaware of the exact trigger causing their symptoms. That is where the <span>skin prick test</span> (SPT) comes in.”

This quick, safe diagnostic tool involves pricking tiny amounts of various allergens into the skin—typically on the forearm or back. “If you are allergic to a substance, a small red bump (like a mosquito bite) appears in 15–20 minutes,” he explains.

<strong>The benefits of the SPT are many:</strong>

<ul><li>It helps identify specific allergens such as dust mites, pollens, fungi, pets, or certain foods.</li><li>It guides both avoidance strategies and treatment plans.</li><li>It is painless – just small skin pricks!</li></ul>

<strong>What is allergy <span rel="noindex">immunotherapy</span>? </strong>

While most people turn to <span>antihistamines</span> or nasal sprays, Dr. Arya says that these only provide temporary relief. “That is where immunotherapy comes into play; it is like a vaccine for your allergy,” he says. Immunotherapy aims to gradually desensitise the immune system to allergens and is the only known method to reduce allergies in the long term. 

According to Dr Arya, it can be administered through:

<ul><li>Allergy shots (Subcutaneous Immunotherapy or SCIT)</li><li>Under-the-tongue drops/tablets (Sublingual Immunotherapy or SLIT)</li></ul>These are tailor-made based on your skin prick test results.

<strong>What does immunotherapy offer?</strong>

<ul><li>Reduces symptom severity over time.</li><li>Decreases dependency on medicines.</li><li>Prevents worsening of allergies or the development of asthma.</li><li>Safe for children and adults.</li></ul>

Dr. Arya emphasises, “It is a long-term investment in your health, usually taken over 3 years. In some cases, it may be extended up to 5 years. It does not contain any steroids or antihistamines and is completely natural.”

<strong>Why Early Testing and Treatment Matter</strong>

“Allergic rhinitis is not just a nuisance,” warns Dr. Arya. If left untreated, it can:

<ul><li>Over a period of time, it may worsen to asthma as well in about 50 per cent of cases.</li><li>Cause recurrent sinus infections.</li><li>Affect sleep and work/school performance.</li><li>Lead to ear problems in children.</li></ul>He stresses that early detection via skin prick testing and starting immunotherapy can stop the allergy in its tracks.

“Allergies can take a toll on your quality of life,” Dr. Arya says. So instead of just popping pills every season, it is time to find out what you are allergic to and treat the root cause. Skin prick testing and immunotherapy have transformed how we manage allergic rhinitis today.”

<strong>Quick Allergy Checklist – Do You Have It?</strong>

<ul><li>Frequent sneezing, especially in the mornings</li><li>Nasal congestion or watery discharge</li><li>Itchy eyes or throat</li><li>Symptoms triggered by dust, pollen, or pets – or sometimes without any trigger!</li><li>No fever (unlike colds)</li></ul>Dr Arya advises: “If you checked more than two, it is time to see an ENT or allergy specialist!”

allergic rhinitis

skin prick test

immunotherapy

allergy symptoms

antihistamines

ent specialist

dust mites

pollen allergy

asthma prevention

allergy diagnosis

When the sniffles will not stop and your mornings start with continuous sneezing, it is natural to assume you have caught a cold. But what if it is something more persistent, like allergic rhinitis?What is allergic rhinitis?Allergic rhinitis is an allergic reaction that occurs when your immune system overreacts to allergens like pollen, dust mites, animal dander, or mould. This common condition is marked by a suite of symptoms, including sneezing spells, a runny or blocked nose, itchy, watery eyes, post-nasal drip, fatigue, poor sleep, and constant coughing. Unlike the common cold, it is not caused by a virus, and symptoms can persist for weeks or months or even all year round. How is it diagnosed? Dr. Manish Arya of the ENT, Allergy and Vertigo Clinic points out that “most people with allergies are unaware of the exact trigger causing their symptoms. That is where the skin prick test (SPT) comes in.”This quick, safe diagnostic tool involves pricking tiny amounts of various allergens into the skin—typically on the forearm or back. “If you are allergic to a substance, a small red bump (like a mosquito bite) appears in 15–20 minutes,” he explains.The benefits of the SPT are many:It helps identify specific allergens such as dust mites, pollens, fungi, pets, or certain foods.It guides both avoidance strategies and treatment plans.It is painless – just small skin pricks!What is allergy immunotherapy? While most people turn to antihistamines or nasal sprays, Dr. Arya says that these only provide temporary relief. “That is where immunotherapy comes into play; it is like a vaccine for your allergy,” he says. Immunotherapy aims to gradually desensitise the immune system to allergens and is the only known method to reduce allergies in the long term. According to Dr Arya, it can be administered through:Allergy shots (Subcutaneous Immunotherapy or SCIT)Under-the-tongue drops/tablets (Sublingual Immunotherapy or SLIT)These are tailor-made based on your skin prick test results.What does immunotherapy offer?Reduces symptom severity over time.Decreases dependency on medicines.Prevents worsening of allergies or the development of asthma.Safe for children and adults.Dr. Arya emphasises, “It is a long-term investment in your health, usually taken over 3 years. In some cases, it may be extended up to 5 years. It does not contain any steroids or antihistamines and is completely natural.”Why Early Testing and Treatment Matter“Allergic rhinitis is not just a nuisance,” warns Dr. Arya. If left untreated, it can:Over a period of time, it may worsen to asthma as well in about 50 per cent of cases.Cause recurrent sinus infections.Affect sleep and work/school performance.Lead to ear problems in children.He stresses that early detection via skin prick testing and starting immunotherapy can stop the allergy in its tracks.“Allergies can take a toll on your quality of life,” Dr. Arya says. So instead of just popping pills every season, it is time to find out what you are allergic to and treat the root cause. Skin prick testing and immunotherapy have transformed how we manage allergic rhinitis today.”Quick Allergy Checklist – Do You Have It?Frequent sneezing, especially in the morningsNasal congestion or watery dischargeItchy eyes or throatSymptoms triggered by dust, pollen, or pets – or sometimes without any trigger!No fever (unlike colds)Dr Arya advises: “If you checked more than two, it is time to see an ENT or allergy specialist!”

think it is just a cold? it could be allergic rhinitis, and here is why early testing and treatment matter

Developing These Health Conditions Before 55 Can Double The Risk Of Dementia

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<span>Dementia</span> is a condition that can effectively dismantle a person’s life and everything they have worked for. Your memories, the way you think and behave, and all of these factors will slowly change as dementia progresses. While we have known about the disease for quite some time now, there are many aspects of it that we are still exploring, like what are some of its risk factors and causes, as these will help us find a cure for the disease. 

New research suggests that developing conditions like heart disease and diabetes before age 55 could significantly raise your chances of <span>developing dementia later in life</span>. The study also indicates that experiencing strokes or <span>mental health issues</span> such as anxiety and depression between ages 55 and 70 might double that risk. 

<h2>Key Conditions and <span rel="noindex">Critical Time Windows</span> </h2>

The study, published in Brain Communications, revealed that heart conditions, including heart disease and an irregular heartbeat called atrial fibrillation, along with diabetes, were most strongly linked to an increased <span>risk of dementia</span> when they appeared before age 55. However, for those between 55 and 70, mental health disorders like anxiety and depression, as well as strokes, were found to double the dementia risk. This suggests different conditions pose a higher risk at different stages of life. 

<h2>Link Between Chronic Conditions and Dementia </h2>

Researchers at the University of Oxford found that a large majority, about 80%, of people with dementia also have two or more chronic health problems. However, there hasn't been a clear understanding of how specific diseases, and when they occur, are connected to dementia. This study aimed to identify important periods in life where certain illnesses pose the biggest threat. They analysed health information from over 282,000 individuals in the UK Biobank, looking at patterns across 46 long-term health conditions. 

<h2>Other Risk Factors for Dementia </h2>

According to Stanford Health Care, many things can raise a person's chance of getting dementia, though some factors we can change and others we can't. Growing older significantly increases the risk for common types like Alzheimer's and vascular dementia. Your genes and family history also play a role, as certain genes can increase the risk for Alzheimer's and other rarer forms like Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. 

However, having a family member with Alzheimer's doesn't guarantee you'll get it, and many without a family history still develop it. People with Down's syndrome often show signs of Alzheimer's in middle age. 

Lifestyle choices matter too. For example, smoking heavily increases dementia risk, possibly due to its link with hardened arteries. While heavy alcohol use seems to increase risk, moderate drinking might actually lower it compared to drinking a lot or not at all. Health conditions are also key factors. Atherosclerosis, where arteries harden, is a big risk for vascular dementia and might be linked to Alzheimer's. 

High "bad" cholesterol (LDL), high levels of an amino acid called homocysteine, and diabetes all raise the risk for both Alzheimer's and vascular dementia. Finally, if someone has mild cognitive impairment, they are at a much higher risk of developing dementia, with about 40% of those over 65 progressing to dementia within three years in one study. 

This research highlighted that individuals who had conditions like heart disease and diabetes in middle age and then later developed strokes and mental health disorders faced the highest chance of getting dementia. Experts em that considering all existing health issues is important when assessing someone's dementia risk, which could help in creating strategies to lower that risk at particular life stages. Future studies will explore if managing or preventing these health problems during these critical periods could reduce dementia rates. 

dementia

critical time windows

Risk Of Dementia

Health Conditions that Double The Risk Of Dementia

developing dementia later in life

mental health issues

Dementia is a condition that can effectively dismantle a person’s life and everything they have worked for. Your memories, the way you think and behave, and all of these factors will slowly change as dementia progresses. While we have known about the disease for quite some time now, there are many aspects of it that we are still exploring, like what are some of its risk factors and causes, as these will help us find a cure for the disease. New research suggests that developing conditions like heart disease and diabetes before age 55 could significantly raise your chances of developing dementia later in life. The study also indicates that experiencing strokes or mental health issues such as anxiety and depression between ages 55 and 70 might double that risk. Key Conditions and Critical Time Windows The study, published in Brain Communications, revealed that heart conditions, including heart disease and an irregular heartbeat called atrial fibrillation, along with diabetes, were most strongly linked to an increased risk of dementia when they appeared before age 55. However, for those between 55 and 70, mental health disorders like anxiety and depression, as well as strokes, were found to double the dementia risk. This suggests different conditions pose a higher risk at different stages of life. Link Between Chronic Conditions and Dementia Researchers at the University of Oxford found that a large majority, about 80%, of people with dementia also have two or more chronic health problems. However, there hasn't been a clear understanding of how specific diseases, and when they occur, are connected to dementia. This study aimed to identify important periods in life where certain illnesses pose the biggest threat. They analysed health information from over 282,000 individuals in the UK Biobank, looking at patterns across 46 long-term health conditions. Other Risk Factors for Dementia According to Stanford Health Care, many things can raise a person's chance of getting dementia, though some factors we can change and others we can't. Growing older significantly increases the risk for common types like Alzheimer's and vascular dementia. Your genes and family history also play a role, as certain genes can increase the risk for Alzheimer's and other rarer forms like Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. However, having a family member with Alzheimer's doesn't guarantee you'll get it, and many without a family history still develop it. People with Down's syndrome often show signs of Alzheimer's in middle age. Lifestyle choices matter too. For example, smoking heavily increases dementia risk, possibly due to its link with hardened arteries. While heavy alcohol use seems to increase risk, moderate drinking might actually lower it compared to drinking a lot or not at all. Health conditions are also key factors. Atherosclerosis, where arteries harden, is a big risk for vascular dementia and might be linked to Alzheimer's. High "bad" cholesterol (LDL), high levels of an amino acid called homocysteine, and diabetes all raise the risk for both Alzheimer's and vascular dementia. Finally, if someone has mild cognitive impairment, they are at a much higher risk of developing dementia, with about 40% of those over 65 progressing to dementia within three years in one study. Insights for Future Prevention This research highlighted that individuals who had conditions like heart disease and diabetes in middle age and then later developed strokes and mental health disorders faced the highest chance of getting dementia. Experts em that considering all existing health issues is important when assessing someone's dementia risk, which could help in creating strategies to lower that risk at particular life stages. Future studies will explore if managing or preventing these health problems during these critical periods could reduce dementia rates. 

developing these health conditions before 55 can double the risk of dementia

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