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Archives for 2016

Ask the Doctor- Can the fat from my abdomen be used?

September 16, 2016 by

This week, James E. Craigie, MD, of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction answers your question.

Question: I have breast cancer Stage 1 grade2 in my right breast. The surgeons here want to use my latissimus dorsi muscle for reconstruction. This is unacceptable to me because I am very active and snow ski and garden etc.

I think this method runs too much of a risk to my future ability to do things I like to do. I had lipo on my lower abdomen years ago. I do have more than enough fat on my upper abdomen. Can that be used? I am not comfortable with what I have been told so far.

Answer: Thank you for your excellent question! I’m sorry you are having to go through breast reconstruction and breast cancer treatment. You make a very good point and I agree that you should not need to sacrifice your bodies important muscles in order to restore your body after having mastectomy.

In some circumstances it may be necessary but you should know that there are options that use your own natural fatty tissue without sacrificing your important muscles. You should also anticipate that you can continue to be active as before surgery. In our practice we frequently help patients who have had tummy lipo or other surgeries that make the tummy fat inadequate.

We can also use fatty tissue from the buttock or thigh area without sacrificing muscles or using silicone breast implants. Let me know if you would like more information.

Have a question about breast reconstruction or post-surgical you’d like answered from our surgical team? Just ask!

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Delicious Pumpkin Spice Recipes for Fall

September 13, 2016 by

 

Fall is right around the corner, and that means one thing…it’s also officially pumpkin spice season! (One of our favorite things about fall here at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction.)

It’s the season many of us have been waiting for all year, and we can’t wait to indulge in our favorite pumpkin spice cookie, pie, and latte recipes!

And there is no better time than now to whip out some of our favorite delicious pumpkin spice recipes.

The best part is that many of our favorite pumpkin spice recipes actually contain pumpkin, a very healthy and nutritious food.

So healthy, in fact, that pumpkin is well known for the following health benefits:

  • Pumpkin is loaded with vitamin A, a vitamin essential to keep your eyes healthy.
  • Pumpkin is packed with fiber, which is good for heart health.
  • Pumpkin is full of antioxidants, which make it an anti-inflammatory food.

That being said, please understand that eating copious amounts of pumpkin will in no way give you all the nutrients you need to live a healthy life.

However, the many health benefits that pumpkins do have surely make us feel less guilty as we consume our favorite pumpkin spice treats!

Keep reading to discover some of our favorite pumpkin spice recipes.

Whole Grain Pumpkin Spice Waffles

Ingredients:

  • 2¼ cups (200 grams) oat flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon allspice or cloves
  • 3 large eggs
  • Scant 2/3 cup milk of choice (I used plain, unsweetened almond milk)
  • Scant ½ cup melted coconut oil or 7½ tablespoons butter, melted
  • ½ cup (122 grams) packed pumpkin puree
  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Directions:

#1 In a large mixing bowl, combine the oat flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and all spice or cloves. Whisk to combine.

#2 In a medium mixing bowl, whisk the eggs. Then add the milk, coconut oil or butter, pumpkin purée, maple syrup and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is thoroughly blended.

#3 Pour the liquid mixture into the oat flour mixture. Stir with a big spoon until just combined (the batter will still be a little lumpy). Let the batter rest for 10 minutes so the oat flour has time to soak up some of the moisture. Plug in your waffle iron to preheat now.

#4 Once 10 minutes is up, give the batter one more, gentle swirl with your spoon. The batter will be pretty thick, but don’t worry! Your waffles will turn out great. Pour batter onto the heated waffle iron, enough to cover the center and most of the central surface area, and close the lid.

#5 Once the waffle is deeply golden and crisp, transfer it to a cooling rack or baking sheet. Don’t stack your waffles on top of each other or they’ll lose crispness. If desired, keep your waffles warm by placing them in a 200-degree oven until you’re ready to serve. Repeat with remaining batter and serve with desired toppings on the side.

Recipe Source: http://cookieandkate.com/2014/gluten-free-pumpkin-spice-waffles/

Pumpkin Chai Latte

Ingredients:

  • Latte
  • 1 tea bag of spiced chai (or decaf spiced chai rooibos)
  • ½ cup plain, unsweetened almond milk or milk of choice
  • 2 tablespoons real pumpkin purée
  • 1 tablespoon real maple syrup or honey
  • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ⅛ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground ginger
  • Dash nutmeg
  • Dash cloves
  • Tiny dash salt
  • ½ teaspoon arrowroot starch or cornstarch (optional, makes the latte super creamy)
  • Optional garnishes: 1 cinnamon stick or star of anise, coconut whipped cream
  • Optional coconut whipped cream
  • 1 can (14 ounces) full fat coconut milk, chilled at least 10 hours (the coconut milk MUST be full fat and MUST be refrigerated for at least 10 hours. Put a mixing bowl in the freezer to chill while you’re at it.)
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ⅛ teaspoon cinnamon

Directions:

#1 In a small saucepan, bring ½ cup water to a gentle boil. Remove the water from heat, add the tea bag, and let it steep for 4 minutes. Before removing the tea bag, squeeze any water remaining out by pressing the tea bag against the side of the pan with the back of a spoon.

#2 Add the almond milk, pumpkin purée, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves and salt to the pan. Whisk in the optional arrowroot starch or cornstarch. Pour the mixture into a stand blender and blend for a minute or two, until the components are blended together and the drink is nice and creamy. (You can alternatively use an immersion blender, but I had much better results with my stand blender.)

#3 Pour the mixture back into your pan and gently rewarm on the stove, then pour it into a mug. Top with totally optional whipped coconut cream and/or garnish with totally optional cinnamon stick or star of anise.

#4 To make the coconut whipped cream: Pull out the chilled can of coconut milk and mixing bowl. Open the can of coconut milk and scoop the solid coconut cream into the chilled bowl (you can use the remaining coconut water in smoothies). Using an electric hand mixer, beat the cream until fluffy and smooth. Add the maple syrup, vanilla extract and cinnamon and gently blend again to combine. Use the coconut cream immediately or cover and store in the fridge for later (it will be soft at room temperature and more firm when cold).

Recipe Source: http://cookieandkate.com/2014/homemade-pumpkin-chai-latte/

 Pumpkin Spice Ice Cream

Ingredients:

  • 15 ounces (1 and 1/2 cups) pumpkin
  • 1 (13.5 ounce) can coconut milk
  • 1 (13.5 ounce) can light coconut milk
  • 1/3 cup honey, agave, or maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup molasses
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/8 teaspoon allspice
  • Pinch of ground ginger
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt

Directions:

#1 Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl, whisking well to break up any lumps of pumpkin.

#2 Chill in the refrigerator until cold, then whisk again.

#3 Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer, and let it soften at room temperature for about 15 minutes before scooping.

Recipe Source: http://acalculatedwhisk.com/pumpkin-spice-ice-cream-vegan-paleo/

 What is your favorite pumpkin spice recipe? Comment below!

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Ask the Doctor-Why won’t insurance pay for reconstruction?

September 9, 2016 by

This week, James E. Craigie, MD, of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction answers your question.

Question: I don’t understand why insurance company doesn’t pay for reconstruction if you’ve had lumpectomy. With radiation your breasts shrink a lot and you are all out of proportion. I finally did get them to pay for prosthesis and bra.

Answer: That’s not always the case with lumpectomy. If the surgery results in a significant defect or radiation negatively impacts the tissue, most times we can submit your case to your insurance company along with photos of the affected area and they will indeed cover a reconstruction surgery for you.

We’re happy to chat with you about your specific situation and see what we can do to help you through that process.

Have a question about breast reconstruction or post-surgical you’d like answered from our surgical team? Just ask!

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6 Ways to Naturally Destress and Have More Fun

September 6, 2016 by

 

There’s no denying it. Life can be very stressful at times.

Between work and school, and relationships and illnesses, life can throw a lot of unexpected things our way.

And when life throws you stressful situations, it’s important to find ways to naturally destress and have more fun.

While it might take a little discipline (hey, we know how hard it can be to put yourself first!), it doesn’t take a lot of time or money to enjoy activities that will help lower your stress levels.

It can be as simple as adding more exercise into your daily routine or carving out time to spend with your dearest friends.

Keep reading to discover some of our favorite activities that help us to destress.

Take a Walk 

If you’re stressed out and enjoy exercise, there is no better way to destress than with a long walk.

The reason: When you walk, your body naturally releases endorphins that help you relax and feel good.

On top of natural endorphins being released, walking is good for your body and helps keep you healthy.

And when your body feels good, you tend to emotionally and mentally feel better as well.

Get Together with Friends

During a stressful time, it can be a great comfort to have a friend nearby. A good friend is typically also a good listener, which is important when you feel you need to get things off your chest.

A friend might also be able to give valuable insight into your situation and provide good advice.

Sometimes a friend can also be there to help you take your mind off stressful things.

Nothing beats a good night out with your best girlfriends to lighten your mood.

Have a Night Out

There’s never anything wrong with treating yourself to a night out.

Especially when times are challenging. Go to a comedy club for a few laughs, out to dinner with a group of friends, or see the movie you’ve wanted to see.

Remember that a night out doesn’t have to be super extravagant or expensive.

Perhaps your fun night out might consist of a trip to the park to enjoy the scenery or a day of window shopping. It’s up to you! Choose whatever activity makes you feel calm and relaxed.

Pamper Yourself

Nothing beats a relaxing day at the spa. And sometimes all it takes to relieve some built-up stress is a massage and a fresh manicure. For some extra fun, bring a friend!

It’s always a good time to catch up on the latest gossip while getting your nails painted.

In the Charleston area? Check out this article on the best spas in Charleston to unwind and pamper yourself.

Make a Craft

When stress builds up inside the body, it tends to create a lot of negative energy. Use that energy and put it into doing something creative, like making a craft.

This craft doesn’t have to be anything too crazy. If you’re in to knitting, make a scarf. Love to paint?

Maybe it’s time to touch up some of your furniture or create a new piece of art for your wall. Better yet, have fun by putting your energy into learning a new crafting skill.

Not only will it help you take your mind off the situation, you’ll come out of the experience with a new skill set.

Play a Game

In the hustle and bustle of life, we often forget to add play into our daily routines.

And without any play in your day, you’re missing out on fun. And without any fun, your life is bound to get extra stressful.

Bringing out a board game to play with your friends or family is a great way to relieve stress.

Games give you an opportunity to focus your mind on something other than what’s stressing you out, and the company of others is always fun and relaxing.

Participate in a Charity Race

The best friends forever Pink Ribbon Run is a fun time for everyone who participates.

It’s one of our personal favorite events and are excited to be a sponsor this year on September 17.

This is a family friendly event and all age groups can participate. And it doesn’t matter if you’re not a runner. Walk off stress and join us in celebration by walking the race with your friends and family.

Proceeds from race registration and fundraising will benefit local breast cancer organizations.

Come join us for this worthy cause!

What is your favorite destressing activity? Comment below!

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Ask the Doctor-Do you accept patients that are considering removal?

September 2, 2016 by

This week, James E. Craigie, MD, of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction answers your question.

Question: I wanted to know if you accept patients that are considering implant removal and reconstruction (with no history of mastectomy). If so, I’d like an idea of costs involved. Thank you!

Answer: Thank you for your question. Yes we do surgery to reconstruct and re shape the breasts after implants are removed. The cost is determined by what procedure is necessary to help restore the breast shape.

If your implants were put in for cosmetic reasons then the surgery to restore the breasts is usually cosmetic as well. If you would like to come for a consultation I could give you more specific details regarding the fees.

Alternatively if you can not come for a consult I could get more information from you about your situation. A call from.my staff for more details may be needed. Just let me know if either option is good for you.

Have a question about breast reconstruction or post-surgical you’d like answered from our surgical team? Just ask!

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Quick and Healthy Meal Recipes

August 30, 2016 by

 

Getting daily nutritious meals is important for a healthy body and mind.

But when you are battling breast cancer (or any cancer for that matter), you might not have the time, or energy, to prepare meals the way you used to.

That’s why it’s important to add a few quick and healthy meal plans to your menu.

Whether you are currently battling cancer or trying to help out a friend in need, we hope you will check out a few of our recipes made with healthy foods that make great meals.

Note: We love these recipes, but please always talk to your doctor about introducing new foods/meals into your diet.

Keep reading to discover a few of our favorite quick and healthy meal recipes…

Vegetable Lasagna

There’s nothing better than a classic Italian meal stuffed with healthy vegetables.

Veggie lasagna is easy to make, packed with nutritious ingredients, and freezable.

It’s a great meal to prep ahead of time when you have the energy or put together to gift to a family in need.

Check out the recipe.

Ingredients:

  •  1 (16 ounce) package lasagna noodles
  • 1 pound fresh mushrooms, sliced
  • 3/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
  • 3/4 cup chopped onion
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 (26 ounce) jars pasta sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 (15 ounce) container part-skim ricotta cheese
  • 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Cook the lasagna noodles in a large pot of boiling water for 10 minutes, or until al dente. Rinse with cold water, and drain.

2. In a large saucepan, cook and stir mushrooms, green peppers, onion, and garlic in oil. Stir in pasta sauce and basil; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes.

3. Mix together ricotta, 2 cups mozzarella cheese, and eggs.

4. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Spread 1 cup tomato sauce into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer 1/2 each, lasagna noodles, ricotta mix, sauce, and Parmesan cheese. Repeat layering, and top with remaining 2 cups mozzarella cheese.

5. Bake, uncovered, for 40 minutes. Let stand 15 minutes before serving.

Recipe Source: http://allrecipes.com/recipe/11786/hearty-vegetable-lasagna/

Homemade Chicken Soup

There’s nothing more soothing and delicious than a homemade pot of chicken soup. The best part?

It’s easy to make, you can make it in large quantities, and it freezes well so you can make it in advance.

This recipe is great for both dinner and lunches, and if you gift this meal, it will certainly warm someone’s heart.

Here’s how you make it.

Ingredients:

  •  1 (3 pound) whole chicken
  • 4 carrots, halved
  • 4 stalks celery, halved
  • 1 large onion
  • Water
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon granules (optional)

Instructions:

1. Put the chicken, carrots, celery and onion in a large soup pot and cover with cold water. Heat and simmer, uncovered, until the chicken meat falls off of the bones (skim off foam every so often).

2. Take everything out of the pot. Strain the broth. Pick the meat off of the bones and chop the carrots, celery and onion. Season the broth with salt, pepper and chicken bouillon to taste, if desired. Return the chicken, carrots, celery and onion to the pot, stir together, and serve.

Recipe Source: http://allrecipes.com/recipe/8814/homemade-chicken-soup/

Potato, Sausage, and Greens Casserole

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. That’s why it’s important to have a delicious breakfast casserole on hand.

This recipe includes fresh meats, potatoes, and greens…all items important to a healthy diet. And delicious, too!

Learn how to make the recipe here.

Ingredients:

  •  1 tsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 6 oz package pork sausage crumbles
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 1 small zucchini, ends removed + diced
  • 10 oz package frozen spinach, thawed + squeezed of moisture
  • salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 small russet potatoes, peeled + thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • ⅓ cup skim milk
  • ½ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Heat the oil in a large frying pan and sauté the sausage, onion and zucchini for about 5 minutes or until onions are transparent. Stir occasionally.

2. Stir in spinach, salt and pepper. Set aside.

3. Spray a 9-inch pie dish with nonstick cooking spray. Cover the bottom with half of the sliced potatoes, add the sausage filling and cover the top with the remaining potatoes. Sprinkle with cheese.

4. Pour milk evenly on top and cover with bread crumbs; press down to moisten with milk. Lightly spray the bread crumbs with cooking spray. Bake for 50 minutes or until the potatoes are soft.

Recipe Source: https://www.skinnymom.com/skinny-potato-sausage-greens-casserole/

 Do you have a favorite recipe? Share it with us below!

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Ask the Doctor- Is it too late to have natural breast reconstruction?

August 26, 2016 by

 

This week, James E. Craigie, MD, of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction answers your question.

Question: I had bilateral mastectomies and wanted to do the natural breast procedure but the surgeon wouldn’t even discuss it. Then he totally botched the reconstruction. I look deformed. I still avoid the mirror. A redo was set but was canceled day of surgery because b/p and bipod star were elevated. I want it redone. I would like to have the natural breasts. I have plenty of abdominal tissue. I am diabetic.

Answer: I’m sorry you have had so much trouble with your reconstruction.

Fortunately, previous attempts at implant reconstruction rarely impact our ability to successfully perform a reconstruction with your own tissue. Diabetes increases your risk of some complications, most notably wound healing problems and infections, but it rarely keeps us from doing the reconstruction at all.

If you wish, we can have one of our staff call you to discuss your situation further.

Thanks for your question, and look forward to meeting with you.

Have a question about breast reconstruction or post-surgical you’d like answered from our surgical team? Just ask!

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The Best Charleston Parks

August 23, 2016 by

 

Nothing beats a nice long walk, picnic, or game of Frisbee in the park on a beautiful sunny day.

And, boy, are we at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction glad to be located in Charleston, a city full of beautiful parks.

Whether you already live here or are planning a visit sometime this year, we hope you’ll take some time to check out a few of our favorite parks in town.

Take a look at our favorites…

Angel Oak Park

 Angel Oak Park is home to one of the most stunning Angel Oak trees you’ll ever see.

This tree is believed to be hundreds of years old. In fact, it’s one of the oldest oaks known in existence.

Aside from its majestic oak tree, this park has plenty of space to go for a walk and has built-in picnic tables. Public restrooms are located on the property.

This park is open Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free.

For more info, visit the park’s website here.

Washington Square Park

 Washington Square Park is one of Charleston’s more historic parks. Its historic location is also home to Charleston City Hall.

The park is filled with mature oak trees, which makes it a nice shady place to take a walk or enjoy a good book.

As you walk through the park, you’ll also notice elegant floral displays which are changed throughout the year.

This park is in a public location and is always open to visits. No admission is necessary to visit.

For more info, visit the park’s website here.

Waterfront Park

If you love the water, Waterfront Park is a stop you’ll want to put on your list.

It’s located directly on the harbor, so you can grab a seat on a bench and enjoy the sailboats coming and out of the marina.

On the park property is a beautiful fountain. On hot days, you’ll see children running through the water and having fun.

This 8-acre park is located near the market and other great shopping areas.

Whether you’re shopping, or just stopping by to view the beautiful flower gardens, this is a park you want to make sure you get to.

For more info, visit the park’s website here.

James Island County Park

 If you’re up for an adventure, James Island County Park is the place for you.

It spans over 600 acres and is open for fishing, crabbing, hiking, biking, paddle boarding, kayaking, and more.

This park is also awesome for dog lovers, as it contains a completely enclosed dog park.

It’s only a $2 fee per person to enter the park.

For additional fees you can access the park’s campground, climbing facility, water park, disc golf course, and paddle boats.

Make a full day of it or camp out for the weekend at this park.

For more info, visit the park’s website here.

Filed Under: All Things Charleston Tagged With: , , , , ,

Ask the Doctor- Can my TRAM flap be redone?

August 19, 2016 by

This week, James E. Craigie, MD, of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction answers your question.

Question: I had a tram flap done back in 2012. Didn’t like the results so I didn’t go back to get it finished. I was to receive a breast reduction on my left breast because I was heavy. My left breast is still larger than my right. Can it be re-fixed to how I want so that I can be happy with my body?

Answer: Thanks for your question. Yes you can still have a procedure to adjust your other breast. There is a good chance that adjusting your “heavy” breast will improve the match or symmetry between the two and improve your overall result.

It is also possible that your TRAM breast could be adjusted so that the result is better. If you never went back to have it revised then there is a good chance that improvements could be made. If you would like more information then let me know I can have someone from my office contact you for more information.

Have a question about breast reconstruction or post-surgical you’d like answered from our surgical team? Just ask!

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Easy Activities to Help You Get into a Workout Routine

August 16, 2016 by

 

Getting into a workout routine isn’t the easiest thing to do.

And it’s even harder if you’ve been put on medical rest due to an illness or injury.

The good news, however, is that it’s easy to take baby steps to get yourself back into an exercise routine.

There are many activities you can do in your home, outdoors, or at a community gym to help you build up your stamina again.

So we’d like to share some of our favorite activities with you to get you started with a new workout routine.

Before we begin, we’d like to remind you to check with your physician before you begin a new workout program.

This is especially important if you’ve had surgery or a serious illness such as cancer.

Walking

Walking is a great activity for so many reasons.

When you walk on a regular basis it helps improve blood circulation, strengthens muscles and joints, and helps you maintain a healthy weight.

The best part is that you can do it virtually anywhere.

Take a walk around your neighborhood, do a few laps around your home, or jump on a treadmill at your gym.

Start by walking small distances. As your body gets stronger and builds endurance, increase your distances.

Make walking more fun by bringing a friend along. What a great way to exercise and catch up on each other’s lives at the same time!

Swimming

Swimming is a wonderful activity and is very refreshing on a hot day. This activity is great for heart health—it’s by far one of the best cardio activities you can do besides running.

And when you swim, you are working all of your muscles and getting a full body workout.

This activity is perfect for people who are healing from injuries or those who can’t put a ton of stress on the body.

The reason… it’s one of the lowest impact exercises you can do.

Many gyms or community centers such as the YMCA have pools you can access for a small fee.

Better yet, find a friend or family member with a pool and schedule a swimming date!

Yoga

Yoga is all the rave almost everywhere. So why not give it a try?

Especially because it’s been proven to help keep you flexible, build muscle, drop blood pressure, and regulate your adrenal glands.

This activity is great because it allows you to start slow and move at your own pace. As time goes on, you’ll build endurance and progress to more advanced yoga techniques.

Many gyms and fitness centers offer yoga classes for beginners. You can also find yoga videos in stores or on YouTube to do at home.

All of these activities are fun, come with valuable health benefits, and will put you on the path to becoming a stronger and healthier individual.

So what are you waiting for? Grab a friend, and with your doctor’s permission, get going!

What’s your favorite exercise activity?

Comment below!

Filed Under: Health and Wellness Tagged With: , , , , ,
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