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Circumcision Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge

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Study Guide: Circumcision: History, Culture, and Medicine

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Circumcision: History, Culture, and Medicine Study Guide

Historical Context and Origins

Jonathan Hutchinson suggested circumcision lowered the risk of syphilis based on observations in African patients.

Answer: False

Explanation: Jonathan Hutchinson suggested circumcision lowered the risk of syphilis based on observations of Jewish patients, not African patients.

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Benjamin Spock's book on childcare significantly decreased circumcision rates in the mid-20th century US.

Answer: False

Explanation: Benjamin Spock's influential book advocated for circumcision, contributing to a significant increase in its rates in the mid-20th century United States.

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Ancient Greek cultures viewed circumcision favorably and encouraged its adoption.

Answer: False

Explanation: Ancient Greek cultures generally abhorred circumcision, viewing it negatively and making life difficult for circumcised Jews within their society.

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The earliest known documentation of circumcision originates from ancient Rome.

Answer: False

Explanation: The earliest known documentation of circumcision originates from ancient Egypt, not ancient Rome.

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The practice of circumcision in ancient Egypt was possibly performed for hygienic reasons and associated with spiritual development.

Answer: True

Explanation: Evidence suggests that circumcision in ancient Egypt may have been performed for hygienic reasons and was associated with purity and spiritual development.

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Roman emperors prohibited Jewish circumcision as a measure to encourage assimilation and prevent revolts.

Answer: True

Explanation: Roman emperors, such as Hadrian, prohibited Jewish circumcision as part of efforts to assimilate the Jewish population and prevent uprisings.

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The primary reason for the widespread adoption of circumcision in the Anglosphere in the late 19th century was hygiene concerns alone.

Answer: False

Explanation: While hygiene was a factor, theories linking circumcision to preventing syphilis (Hutchinson) and germ theory principles were also primary drivers for its adoption in the Anglosphere.

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What was Jonathan Hutchinson's suggestion in 1855 that contributed to the prominence of circumcision in the Anglosphere?

Answer: That circumcision prevented syphilis.

Explanation: In 1855, Jonathan Hutchinson suggested that circumcision lowered the risk of syphilis, a notion that contributed to its increased adoption in the Anglosphere.

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Which of the following is NOT a reason for the historical adoption of circumcision in the Anglosphere?

Answer: Benjamin Spock's recommendation against it.

Explanation: Benjamin Spock's influential book advocated *for* circumcision, contributing to its adoption, not against it. Theories on hygiene, germ theory, and Hutchinson's observations were reasons for its historical adoption.

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Religious and Cultural Significance

Circumcision is performed exclusively for religious reasons.

Answer: False

Explanation: The practice of circumcision is undertaken for various reasons, including preventive healthcare, religious obligations, and cultural traditions, not solely for religious purposes.

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Circumcision is explicitly mandated in the Quran for all Muslim males.

Answer: False

Explanation: While circumcision is a widely practiced tradition (sunnah) in Islam, it is not explicitly mandated in the Quran.

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The practice of circumcision is forbidden in the Mandaean faith.

Answer: True

Explanation: Mandaeism strictly forbids circumcision, considering it an abhorrent practice associated with Judaism.

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The Catholic Church officially banned the practice of religious circumcision at the Council of Florence.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Catholic Church explicitly banned the practice of religious circumcision at the Council of Florence.

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Circumcision is considered a mandatory commandment in Judaism, performed on the eighth day of life.

Answer: True

Explanation: In Judaism, circumcision (Brit Milah) is a central commandment performed on the eighth day of a male infant's life, symbolizing a covenant with God.

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The 'peri'ah' is a Jewish ceremony performed for uncircumcised infants as an alternative to Brit Milah.

Answer: False

Explanation: The 'peri'ah' is part of the Jewish circumcision ritual itself, specifically the laying bare of the glans, ensuring the circumcision is complete and valid, not an alternative ceremony.

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In Hinduism, scriptures permit and encourage circumcision for ritual purity.

Answer: False

Explanation: Hindu scriptures prohibit interference with the genitals, thus forbidding circumcision for ritual purity.

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Circumcision is considered a rite of passage in some Filipino traditions, signifying a transition to manhood.

Answer: True

Explanation: In Filipino culture, circumcision, known as 'tuli,' is widely regarded as a rite of passage marking a boy's transition into manhood and a more adult societal role.

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Circumcision is a practice performed by the Druze community, but it holds significant religious importance within their faith.

Answer: False

Explanation: While circumcision is practiced by the Druze community, it holds cultural significance rather than specific religious importance within their faith.

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The term 'tuli' refers to circumcision in the Philippines and is associated with cowardice if one remains uncircumcised.

Answer: True

Explanation: In the Philippines, 'tuli' refers to circumcision and can carry connotations of cowardice if one remains uncircumcised, highlighting its role as a rite of passage.

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While not explicitly in the Quran, circumcision is considered a recommended tradition (sunnah) in Islam.

Answer: True

Explanation: Circumcision, known as 'khitan,' is not explicitly mentioned in the Quran but is widely considered a recommended tradition (sunnah) in Islam.

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The Catholic Church views circumcision neutrally and does not prohibit it for religious reasons.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Catholic Church explicitly banned the practice of religious circumcision at the Council of Florence and maintains a neutral stance on non-religious circumcisions.

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The concept of 'Brit Shalom' involves the ritual circumcision of Jewish infants.

Answer: False

Explanation: 'Brit Shalom' is a Jewish naming ceremony for infants that specifically does not involve circumcision, serving as an alternative to Brit Milah.

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Sikhism permits and encourages circumcision as a religious practice.

Answer: False

Explanation: Sikhism criticizes and specifically bans circumcision, viewing it as an Islamic custom.

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Circumcision is considered a cultural tradition with no religious significance among the Druze community.

Answer: True

Explanation: While practiced culturally, circumcision holds no specific religious significance within the Druze faith.

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In Judaism, what is the significance of circumcision, known as Brit Milah?

Answer: It symbolizes a covenant between God and Abraham's descendants.

Explanation: In Judaism, Brit Milah symbolizes the covenant established between God and Abraham's descendants.

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Which religion strictly forbids circumcision, considering it abhorrent and a sign associated with Judaism?

Answer: Mandaeism

Explanation: Mandaeism strictly forbids circumcision, viewing it as abhorrent and a sign associated with Judaism.

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What is the significance of 'tuli' in Filipino culture?

Answer: A rite of passage signifying a boy's transition to manhood.

Explanation: In Filipino culture, 'tuli' refers to circumcision and serves as a rite of passage marking a boy's transition to manhood.

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According to the source, what is the Catholic Church's stance on religious circumcision?

Answer: It was banned at the Council of Florence.

Explanation: The Catholic Church officially banned the practice of religious circumcision at the Council of Florence.

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Which of the following statements accurately reflects the Druze faith's view on circumcision?

Answer: It is practiced culturally but holds no specific religious significance.

Explanation: Circumcision is practiced culturally by the Druze community but does not hold specific religious significance within their faith.

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What is the significance of circumcision in the Coptic, Ethiopian Orthodox, and Eritrean Orthodox Churches?

Answer: It is an established practice serving as a rite of passage for males.

Explanation: In the Coptic, Ethiopian Orthodox, and Eritrean Orthodox Churches, circumcision is an established practice that serves as a rite of passage for males.

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What is the significance of circumcision in some Australian Aboriginal communities?

Answer: A trial of bravery and self-control marking transition to manhood.

Explanation: In some Australian Aboriginal communities, circumcision serves as a trial of bravery and self-control, marking a youth's transition into manhood.

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Which of the following is NOT explicitly mentioned in the Quran regarding circumcision?

Answer: The practice of circumcision.

Explanation: The Quran does not explicitly mention the practice of circumcision, although it is considered a recommended tradition (sunnah) in Islam, following Abraham's example.

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Medical Aspects: Benefits and Risks

Meatal stenosis is the most common long-term complication following circumcision.

Answer: True

Explanation: Meatal stenosis, a narrowing of the urethral opening, is identified as the most frequent long-term complication associated with circumcision.

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Circumcision is associated with an increased risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in male infants.

Answer: False

Explanation: Circumcision is associated with a decreased risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in male infants.

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Circumcision is generally not recommended for infants with hypospadias or epispadias.

Answer: True

Explanation: Circumcision is contraindicated in infants with hypospadias or epispadias, as the foreskin may be necessary for potential reconstructive surgery.

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The prevalence of oncogenic HPV infection in men is associated with an increased risk following circumcision.

Answer: False

Explanation: Circumcision is associated with a reduced prevalence of oncogenic HPV infection in men.

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Studies indicate that circumcision has a negative physiological effect on male sexual pleasure.

Answer: False

Explanation: Accumulated data suggest that circumcision does not have an adverse physiological effect on male sexual pleasure or function.

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The Gomco clamp and the Plastibell are common devices used for infant circumcision in the USA.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Gomco clamp and the Plastibell are among the common devices utilized for infant circumcision procedures in the United States.

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Circumcision is believed to offer a protective effect against penile cancer later in life.

Answer: True

Explanation: Pre-adolescent circumcision is believed to offer a protective effect against the development of penile cancer later in life.

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Circumcision is contraindicated in premature infants or those who are clinically unstable.

Answer: True

Explanation: Circumcision is contraindicated in premature infants or those who are clinically unstable due to potential health risks associated with the procedure in such conditions.

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Male circumcision has been shown to negatively impact male fertility.

Answer: False

Explanation: Studies indicate that male circumcision has no significant negative impact on male fertility.

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The primary risk factor for penile cancer is being circumcised.

Answer: False

Explanation: The primary risk factor for penile cancer is not being circumcised; rather, circumcision is associated with a reduced risk.

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The source suggests that male circumcision may increase the risk of cervical cancer in female partners.

Answer: False

Explanation: The source suggests that male circumcision is associated with a decreased risk of cervical cancer in female partners.

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The Mogen clamp is a common device used for infant circumcision in the USA.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Mogen clamp is one of the common devices utilized for infant circumcision procedures in the United States.

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Circumcision is contraindicated in infants with ambiguous genitalia due to potential need for reconstructive surgery.

Answer: True

Explanation: Circumcision is contraindicated in infants with ambiguous genitalia, as the foreskin may be required for potential reconstructive surgery.

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The complication rate for circumcision increases with the age of the individual.

Answer: True

Explanation: Complication rates for circumcision are known to increase significantly with the age of the individual undergoing the procedure.

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The primary risk factor for penile cancer is not being circumcised.

Answer: True

Explanation: Not being circumcised is identified as the primary risk factor for penile cancer, with pre-adolescent circumcision offering protection.

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According to the source, what is the most common long-term complication associated with circumcision?

Answer: Meatal stenosis

Explanation: Meatal stenosis is identified as the most common long-term complication following circumcision.

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How do complication rates for circumcision change with age, according to the provided text?

Answer: They increase significantly with the age of the individual.

Explanation: Complication rates for circumcision are noted to increase significantly with the age of the individual undergoing the procedure.

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Circumcision is contraindicated in infants with which of the following conditions?

Answer: Both B and C

Explanation: Circumcision is contraindicated in infants with ambiguous genitalia and premature infants, as the foreskin may be needed for surgery or the infant may be clinically unstable.

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Which of these is NOT among the common devices used for infant circumcision in the USA mentioned in the source?

Answer: Bell clamp

Explanation: The common devices mentioned for infant circumcision in the USA are the Gomco clamp, the Plastibell, and the Mogen clamp. A Bell clamp is not listed.

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How does circumcision affect the risk of cervical cancer in female partners?

Answer: It is associated with a decreased risk.

Explanation: Male circumcision prior to heterosexual contact is consistently associated with a decreased risk of cervical cancer among female partners.

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The source indicates that not being circumcised is the primary risk factor for which type of cancer?

Answer: Penile cancer

Explanation: The source indicates that not being circumcised is the primary risk factor for penile cancer.

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Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a health benefit associated with circumcision?

Answer: Reduced risk of prostate cancer

Explanation: While reduced risks of HIV transmission, penile cancer, and urinary tract infections are mentioned, reduced risk of prostate cancer is not listed as a health benefit associated with circumcision in the provided source.

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What is the primary risk factor for penile cancer according to the source?

Answer: Not being circumcised

Explanation: According to the source, not being circumcised is identified as the primary risk factor for penile cancer.

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Which statement accurately describes the effect of circumcision on male sexual function?

Answer: It has no adverse physiological effect on sexual pleasure or function.

Explanation: Studies indicate that circumcision has no adverse physiological effect on male sexual pleasure, function, desire, or fertility.

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Medical Recommendations and Global Practices

The WHO recommends adolescent and adult male circumcision only in areas with low HIV rates.

Answer: False

Explanation: The WHO recommends voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) as part of a comprehensive HIV prevention program in areas with high HIV rates, not low HIV rates.

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Non-religious routine circumcision is legal in South Africa.

Answer: False

Explanation: Non-religious routine circumcision is illegal in South Africa.

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The WHO recommends voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) primarily for HIV prevention in low HIV prevalence areas.

Answer: False

Explanation: The WHO recommends VMMC primarily for HIV prevention in areas with high HIV prevalence, not low prevalence.

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Circumcision programs in Africa are considered cost-effective due to the reduction in HIV transmission.

Answer: True

Explanation: Studies suggest that circumcision programs in Africa are cost-effective and potentially cost-saving due to their significant role in reducing HIV transmission.

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Circumcision is a practice that is universally condemned by major medical organizations worldwide.

Answer: False

Explanation: Major medical organizations worldwide have varied stances, with many acknowledging health benefits, and none universally condemn the practice.

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The effectiveness of circumcision in preventing HIV transmission was established through multiple randomized controlled trials in Africa.

Answer: True

Explanation: Multiple randomized controlled trials conducted in Africa provided strong evidence for the effectiveness of circumcision in preventing HIV transmission.

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What is the WHO's recommendation regarding male circumcision for HIV prevention?

Answer: It is recommended in areas with high HIV rates as part of a prevention program.

Explanation: The WHO recommends voluntary medical male circumcision as part of a comprehensive HIV prevention program in areas with high HIV rates.

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Which major medical organizations generally find the health benefits of elective infant circumcision insufficient to justify the procedure in developed countries?

Answer: European, Australian, and New Zealand organizations

Explanation: European, Australian, and New Zealand medical organizations generally find the health benefits of elective infant circumcision insufficient to justify the procedure in developed countries, unlike some American organizations.

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What evidence led major health organizations to promote male circumcision for HIV prevention in Africa?

Answer: Three randomized controlled trials showing significant risk reduction.

Explanation: Major health organizations promoted male circumcision for HIV prevention in Africa based on evidence from three randomized controlled trials demonstrating significant risk reduction.

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What is the primary reason cited for the WHO's recommendation of voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC)?

Answer: To prevent sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.

Explanation: The primary reason cited for the WHO's recommendation of VMMC is to prevent sexually transmitted infections, most notably HIV.

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Terminology and Specific Conditions

The term 'circumcision' originates from a Greek word meaning 'to cut around'.

Answer: False

Explanation: The term 'circumcision' is derived from the Latin term 'circumcidere,' which translates to 'to cut around.'

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Circumcision is recommended to treat phimosis, which is the inability to retract the foreskin.

Answer: True

Explanation: Phimosis, defined as the inability to retract the foreskin over the glans penis, is one of the medical conditions for which circumcision can be recommended as a treatment.

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Physiological phimosis, normal at birth, typically resolves naturally over time.

Answer: True

Explanation: Physiological phimosis, which is considered normal in newborns, typically resolves naturally as the individual matures.

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Refractory balanoposthitis is a condition for which circumcision can be used as a treatment.

Answer: True

Explanation: Refractory balanoposthitis, an inflammation of the glans and foreskin, is one of the conditions for which circumcision may be recommended as a treatment.

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What is the primary definition of circumcision as described in the source?

Answer: A surgical procedure involving the removal of the foreskin from the human penis.

Explanation: The source defines circumcision as a surgical procedure involving the removal of the foreskin from the human penis, noting that it is commonly performed for preventive healthcare, religious, or cultural reasons.

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Which of the following is NOT listed as a primary reason for performing circumcision?

Answer: Aesthetic preference

Explanation: The primary reasons listed for performing circumcision are preventive healthcare, religious obligations, and cultural practice; aesthetic preference is not mentioned as a primary reason.

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Which medical condition involves the inability to retract the foreskin over the glans penis?

Answer: Phimosis

Explanation: Phimosis is the medical condition characterized by the inability to retract the foreskin over the glans penis.

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Which of the following is a medical condition that circumcision can be used to treat?

Answer: Refractory balanoposthitis

Explanation: Refractory balanoposthitis is listed as a medical condition that can be treated with circumcision.

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What is the historical origin of the word 'circumcision'?

Answer: From the Latin 'circumcidere' meaning 'to cut around'.

Explanation: The word 'circumcision' originates from the Latin term 'circumcidere,' which means 'to cut around'.

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The source suggests that circumcision may help treat which of the following conditions besides phimosis?

Answer: Chronic or recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Explanation: Besides phimosis, the source suggests that circumcision may help treat chronic or recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs).

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