Virtual Games and Fitness: An Evaluation of the Value of Virtual Games in Fitness

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An Evaluation of the Value of Virtual Games in Fitness

Posted on 01 February 2013. Tags: exercise science, fitness, health and wellness, playing games vs. traditional exercise,virtual exercise games, virtual games and fitness, weight-loss industry, Wii Fit, Xbox Kinect effectiveness

By Dr. Kelly Brooks
Faculty Member, Sports and Health Sciences Program at American Public University

Over the past several years, “gaming” has entered the fitness arena, with new technology allowing participants to move and become active while playing games. With the growing obesity epidemic and the billion-dollar weight-loss industry as motivation, video game companies have marketed their technology to parents who are worried about children becoming obese (while they play video games) and to a generation of “gamers” who will have the ability to exercise while in their comfort zone in front of their game system.

I have worked with several graduate students who have done research into whether video game systems can help to increase fitness. Of the projects we have completed, here is a short summary of the results.

Exercise Adherence

Will an individual be more likely to adhere to an exercise program with a virtual trainer, or to a face-to-face personal trainer?

In two studies, one using the Kinect for the Xbox and a virtual trainer, and one using the Wii fit, we found no significant difference between traditional training days missed in the gym, days missed with the virtual trainer, and days missed using an at-home exercise plan. Days missed were measured over a 3-month period. The accountability of logging exercise in an app on their phone was another variable tested, and it had a positive effect on adherence.

Caloric Expenditure

Over the course of a typical exercise session, are more calories burned in the gym with a trainer or using a virtual trainer for a workout if the exercises, intensity, duration are kept constant?

This question may seem to have an obvious answer, but we conducted this study to measure calories due to concern about the technology interfering with rest/work ratio. It seemed that there was increased rest time due to having to set-up each exercise on the Wii or Kinect. The results indicated that there was no significant difference in estimated calories burned, based on heart rates achieved and time maintained.

Enjoyment Level of Participants

Does an individual enjoy the virtual trainer more than a real-life trainer?

Subjects of the study reported enjoyment in using the virtual trainer and the real trainer, and although slightly more preferred the real-life trainer, no significant difference was observed.

Convenience

Which method is most convenient?

Almost every person in the group enjoyed the convenience of the virtual trainer. Only individuals in the age group classified as 55 and above reported more convenience with the real trainer and exercise program. We attributed this to the fact that these individuals were attending group exercise prior to the study. They also reported little experience with gaming systems.

Playing Games vs. Traditional Exercise

Are individuals actually exercising or are they playing games that do not burn calories?

A large majority of people who used the Wii Fit logged more time playing games. Not all of these games burned a substantial amount of calories.

Caloric Loss Prediction

Are calories burned accurately portrayed by games?

Caloric expenditure was based off of weight and height, and no heart rate measurement was taken. Almost all of the prediction equations were over-predicting caloric expenditure. This is a huge problem. If people think they are burning more calories than they are, then they will not lose weight. They may even eat more calories than needed.

Exercise Related Injuries

Are the virtual trainers promoting exercises that may injure people due to lack of knowledge?

A large percentage of games are not adhering to the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) or National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) standards and guidelines when prescribing exercise. Several games also performed exercises that are considered unsafe by the ACSM.

Virtual Use and Fitness Improvement

Do these games really improve components of fitness? 

Do the games work? Yes they do. If you increase activity and actually DO something, you will burn calories. Any method if increasing activity will have a positive impact on your health.

Finding something you will adhere to, and that you enjoy is key. I always say, whatever you do- do something! That’s what matters. Gimmicks do not work. Effort, enjoyment, and seeing improvement are all ingredients to the formula of improved health.

About the Author:

Dr. Kelly Brooks completed her doctoral work at The University of Alabama. As a former college track athlete, Brooks was inspired to research human response to different environmental conditions, and was the first female appointed to environmental laboratory coordinator at the University of Alabama. Brooks went on to teach and research in both Biomechanics and Exercise Physiology at Louisiana Tech University, where she served as Laboratory director and Graduate Coordinator, as well as Louisiana State NSCA director. She is currently in her first year at Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, and conducts research on the development of biomechanical and medical devices, and fitness applications.

Sports Movement Efficiency and the Planes of Motion Spring 2014

As Kinesiology students learn to analyze movement, understanding how the body moves in planes and on axes is often a difficult concept.

In this forum, Biomechanics students will post examples of sports movement, what planes limbs are moving in, and they will how the movement can be more efficient.

Comparison of coconut water and a carbohydrate-electrolyte sport drink

Comparison of coconut water and a carbohydrate-electrolyte sport drink

Kalman, D. S., Feldman, S.,Krieger, D. R., & Bloomer, R. J. (2012). Comparison of coconut water and acarbohydrate-electrolyte sport drink on measures of hydration and physicalperformance in exercise-trained men. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 9(1).

 The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of two different forms of coconut water (concentrated and not from concentrate) and a carbohydrate-electrolyte sport drink on measures of hydration status and physical performance in exercise-trained men. 

 The study used 12 exercised trained men who were eligible to participate after completing a healthy history questionnaire and physical examination. All the subjects were instructed to maintain their pre-study exercise program throughout the course of the study,with the exception of refraining from exercise during the 24 hours prior toeach test day. On initial screening day, height, body mass, heart rate, and blood pressure where allrecorded for baseline. On each ofthe four test days, subjects reported to the lab in the morning following anovernight fast (no food or beverages other than water were allowed aftermidnight). After baseline assessments, subjects were provided with a standardized breakfast consisting ofa bagel, one tablespoon of cream cheese, and up to 470 mL of water. Sixty minutes after the conclusion ofthe standardized breakfast, subjects performed the dehydrating exercise test. This test consisted of two, 30-minutesbouts of walking/jogging, interspersed with a 10-minute rest period. Specifically, subjects walked/jogged at2. 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 miles per hour on a motorized treadmill, using a grade of0% (five minutes of exercise was performed at each speed). Within minutes following the conclusionof the dehydration exercise test, subjects received their assigned condition(beverage). The study designinvolved a random order, single blind, cross-over assignment to one of the followingfour conditions: Supermarket brand bottled water, pure coconut water (VitaCoco), coconut water from concentrate, or a carbohydrate-electrolyte sportdrink. The amount of beverage was determined based on the total amount of body mass lost during the dehydratingexercise protocol using the equation 1300 mL .kg^-1 x kg loss = amount of beverage consumed (mL). Subjects were allowed 60 minutes toconsume the entire volume of beverage. Each condition was consumed on a different test day, with minimum offive days separating test visits. Performancetesting involved subjects walking on a motorized treadmill which remained on aconstant speed of 4.2 miles per hour throughout the test, however, every threeminutes they would increase the intensity by increasing the incline as follows:min 1-3, 0%; min 4-6, 2.5%; min 7-9, 5%; min 10-12, 7.5%; min 13-15, 10%; min16-18, 12.5%; min 19-21, 15%. Subjects exercised until volitional exhaustion and the total exercisetime was recorded. Inaddition to the measure of total exercise time obtained in the performance testdescribed above, the following variables were used as outcome measures: bodymass, plasma osmolality, urine specific gravity, and subjective measures(thirst, bloatedness, refreshed, stomach upset, and tiredness). Subjective measures were assessedimmediately, 60 minutes, 120 minutes, and 180 minutes follow the dehydratingexercise test. 

 Overallthe study found that subjects lost approximately 1.7 kg during the dehydratingexercise testing and regained this amount in a relatively similar mannerfollowing consumption of all conditions. No significant differences were noted between coconut water, coconutwater concentrate, and sport drink for any measures of fluid retention. Regarding exercise performance, nosignificant difference was noted between bottled water, coconut water, coconutwater concentrate, and sport drink. In general, subjects reported feeling more bloated and experiencedgreater upset stomachaches with the coconut water and coconut water concentrateconditions. 

 Thefirst critique of this study was the lack of obtaining nutritional intakerecords of all the subjects during the study. I believe it would be valuable information to determine ifany supplements were being used during the study or if any macronutrients couldhave been an outside factor to results. Another critique of the study was measuring performance exercise testingwith volitional exhaustion. Ibelieve that motivation could play a role in the perception exhaustion;therefore, time trial test should be applied in further studies as stated inthe discussion section of the article. 

 Chiefly,the information obtained from this study could be used by athletes and coacheswhen determining preferences in rehydration protocol. 

Eating Attitude, Body Image, Body Composition, and Dieting Behavior among Dancers

Eating Attitude, Body Image, Body Composition and Dieting Behavior among Dancers

                Hidayah, G., & Bariah, S. (2011). Eating Attitude, Body Image, Body Composition and                                                        Dieting Behavior among Dancers. Asian Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 2011.

Purpose of Study:

                The purpose of this study was to determine the presence of eating disorder risk in a population of dancers, along with the comparison of body composition between the dancers and a control group, attitude towards eating, dieting behavior, and concern over body image. This is due to the prevalence of eating disorders found in dancers due to an obsession with body image.

Methods and Materials:

                The study was conducted by providing a self-administered questionnaire which included a Body Attitude test and Eating Attitude Test. Dieting behaviors were also monitored on twenty-three dancers and fifty “lean subjects.” The measurements taken were of height, weight, skinfold thickness of super iliac crest, thigh, abdomen, and triceps.

Summary of Results/Conclusion

                After collecting the data, it was concluded that dancers (21.74%) are at high risk of developing an eating disorder than those in the control group(12%).  The data recorded from the body fat percentage and body weight should no significant differences between the two groups. Based off the questionnaires, a correlation between a negative attitudes towards eating with a negative body image. Diet pills, purging, and the use of laxatives were diet behaviors of dancers revealed through the study. Such harsh and extreme dieting techniques were directly related to an obsession of gaining weight.

Critique of Study:

                                To dismiss any sampling errors or criticism of the study, the researchers should have made the number of subjects in each of the groups equal. The number of dancers and subjects in the control group should have both been fifty. This would level the playing field and legitimized the results of the study more.

Practical Application:

                The results of this study can be utilized by dancer teachers, choreographers, and other authority figures in the dance industry to promote healthful living to their students. It presents the threat and reality that dancers face in the industry ,as well as, provides the necessary information to combat this epidemic.

Omega-3 Supplementation Attenuates the Production of C-Reactive Protein in Military Personnel During 5 Days of Intense Physical Stress and Nutrional Restriction

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Omega-3 Supplementation Attenuates the Production of C-Reactive Protein in Military Personnel During 5 Days of Intense Physical Stress and Nutrional Restriction

Post:

Omega-3 Supplementation Attenuates the Production of C-Reactive Protein in Military Personnel During 5 Days of Intense Physical Stress and Nutrional Restriction

Author:

Access the profile card for user: Teodoro Olivarez Teodoro Olivarez

Posted Date:

October 28, 2013 5:17 AM

Status:

Published

Title

Omega-3 Supplementation Attenuates the Production of C-Reactive Protein in Military Personnel During 5 Days of Intense Physical Stress and Nutrional Restriction

Purpose of Study

The purpose of this study is to see if omega-3 (n-3) supplementation effects on C-reactive protein in military personnel.

Methods and Materials

The study composed of 20 subjects between the ages of 18-20 years of age and were students of the Preparation Nucleus for Reserve Officers (NPOR). All military personnel took part in the same physical exercise program five days a week as part of their training, and had normocaloric diet. At the end of the study the end result ended with 17 subjects, 9 who took the supplement and 8 who took the placebo. At the start of the 4th week of supplementation, the military personnel underwent a five-day military survival boot camp which would be characterized by constant physical exertion throughout the day and night, and nutritional and sleep restrictions. Blood samples to test for C-reactive protein and were taken before the start of supplementation and immediately before, during, and after camp. The physical activities were supervised. Food intake was measured by 24 hour recall method. Subjects also underwent measurements in height, weight, and body weight percentage. In terms of supplementation subjects were given 1000 mg of N-3 PUFA, 180 mg of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), 120 mg of docosahexaenice (DHA) and 700 mg of vehicle gel without caloric level. During the first three weeks the supplement was administered directly to the subject and during the last week it was administered to the subjects by an officer who was a collaborator for the study. Boot camp regimen consisted of 5 days of controlled caloric intake below nutrional requirements, both in calories and nutrional requirements. As stated before blood samples were taken before the start of supplementation, the night before the start of boot camp, the afternoon of the third day of boot camp, and immedicately two hours after boot camp. All this was done by an experienced nursing professional. A single use BD Vacutainer vacuum tubes with 5 ml of blood were sent to lab at Lauro Wanderly University Hospital for analysis. Results were read for tieh creatine kinase using the spectrophotometer, model SP22 and A25 automatic photometer for C-reactive protein.

Summary of Results/Conclusion

Looking at the results there was not change when looking at the weight and body fat percentage. Nutrion survery revealed no difference in the 24 hour recalls.  Now looking into the effects of the n-3 supplementation revealed that in the mere five days that the regimen was adopted it promoted a significant reduction in total cholesterol levels compared to the values that were found on the night before the start of the camp. Ck value showed no difference between the supplement and the placebo. There was a lower CRP level in the supplement group rather than the placebo groupl.

What the study reinforce was that there are other avenues that can be studied in regards to cardiovasular and metabolic protection to the protection of individuals exposed to regimens of intense physical activities and/or nutrional inadequacies. These are certain situations that can be found in athletes as well as other individuals in the population. Not only would mlitary personnel would benefit, but the private sector would benefit as well.

Critique of Study

I thought the study was well documented and it shed new light in regards to CRP and CK as well as the important benefits that it has to cardiovascular health. One thing that I noticed though was how they study went from 20 to 17 which might have effected the results a bit, but not to a point where it didn't have a good result. I think it could benefit form a bigger group. There are endless possibilities for this study and it is just finding different ways to incorporate it to sports performance. There is a major benefit of taking these supplements it is just finding other ways to benefit from them. As stated in the journal in future studies it could benefit looking into more biochemical variables such as procytokines and anti-inflammatories, cholesterol sub-fractions, and other markers of muscle damage and oxidative stress, could aid in confirming the results of the study. Other wise it is a great study and a good read.

Practical Applications of the Study

There are so many benefits from taking Omega-3 supplements and we know that it is related to mostly cardiovascular aspects, but this article touches on some different aspects looking at the inflammatory responses of the body to high intense exercises. Yes it did lower total cholesterol levels and with the addition to the exercise program can lead to healtier cardiovascular system, but its interesting to see the other benefits of omega-3s. I am interested to see if there are going to be other studies that focus on the other biochemical variables in terms of muscle damage, oxidative stress, and procytokines. That will only confirm this study.

References

Santos, E., Silva, A., Costa, M., Moura, J., Quirino, E., Franca, G., & Asciutti, L. (2012). Omega-3 supplementation attenuates the production of c-reactive protein in military personnel during 5 days of intense physical stress and nutrional restriction. Biology of Sport, 29(2), 93-99.

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Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Concussions: Treatment or Not?

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Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Concussions: Treatment or Not?

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Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Concussions: Treatment or Not?

Author:

Access the profile card for user: Gregory Peckels Gregory Peckels

Posted Date:

October 27, 2013 4:51 PM

Status:

Published

Greg Peckels

KINE 5306

27 OCTOBER 2013

Title

Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Concussions: Treatment or Not?

Purpose of Study

The purpose of this study is to address if fish oil should be used to help athletes with the recovery after mild traumatic brain injuries (TBI) (concussion).

Methods and Materials

This particular study, which is a meta-analysis, focused their research on animal and basic science data since clinical data in humans have not been published. The research study, Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFA’s) and Concussions: Treatment or Not?, looked at fish oil/docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) use following concussion, fish oil/DHA use before a concussion, a-linolenic acid (ALA) use, the risks of fish oil use, and specific dosing for omega-3 PUFA’s.

Summary of Results/Conclusion

When looking at spinal cord injuries (SCI), omega-3 PUFA’s may be necessary to protect neurons in a SCI patient. Looking at mild TBI’s, omega-3 PUFA supplementation ameliorates protein oxidation and reverses the reduction of Sir2-a levels in rats and levels of total and phosphorylated AMPK were reduced after TBI and levels were normalized by omega-3 PUFA supplements. This basically says that TBI’s may compromise neuronal protective mechanisms by the action of Sir2-a and other regulatory enzymes and that omega-3 PUFA correct those abnormalities. When looking at the supplementation prior to TBI in rats, it has be determined that these rats had reduced oxidative damage and less learning disability as measured by the Morris water maze, maintaining neuronal function and plasticity after TBI. It seems logical that fish oils, particularly omega-3 PUFA, are of great benefit to individuals that suffer from a TBI. During this study, risk of fish oil use was looked at and the main side effects include belching, bad breath, heartburn, nausea, and loose stools. It really seems that the potential benefits of omega-3 PUFA’s outweigh the potential risks of its use. Furthermore, according to this study, it has also been determined that supplements of fish oil, with 10 mg_*kg^-1 of EPA and DHA per day in a 2:1 ratio or 10 mg_*kg^-1 d^-1 of DHA alone seem to be sufficient if started right after a concussion from animal studies. In conclusion, the evidence in the animal models is convincing that omega-3 PUFA, especially, DHA is beneficial after mild TBI occurs, and supplementation for 30 days before mild TBI, even though costly, can be helpful as well. The excessive cost and unintended benefit compared with supplementation at the time of injury should also be looked at. Further studies need to be performed to determine the role that omega-3 PUFA plays in humans who sustain mild TBI’s.

Critique of the Study

I found the study to be very informative and could potentially use the information in the future when I deal with athletes sustaining and recovering from concussions in sport. I thought that the information was presented in a way that was easy to follow, making it easy to understand. The information presented, could definitely change the way that head injuries are reduced in severity and treated.  Obviously, further research is needed to determine whether the use of omega-3 PUFA in humans produces clinically measurable benefits after concussions.

Practical Application(s) of the Study

It has been determined from this study, that omega-3 PUFA’s could be used to help treat concussions and help reduce the severity of concussion symptoms in laboratory rats. The potential benefit of omega-3 PUFA’s seems safe and generally well tolerated and the potential benefit seems to be greater than the risk of taking fish oil. This is of particular benefit to athletes recovering from concussions, which may help to speed up the recovery, potentially allowing athletes to return back to their particular sport in a timely manner. More studies need to be performed to determine the effects on human subjects who are dealing with head injuries, specifically mild traumatic brain injuries (concussions).

Unanswered Questions

1.     Potentially how fast (in days) can omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids speed up the recovery for individuals?

2.     Is there a specific age in which it is safe or unsafe to take omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids?

Reference

Trojian, T., & Jackson, E. (2011). Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Concussions: Treatment or Not?. American College of Sports Medicine,10(4), 180-186. 

Attachment:  Omega 3 PUFA and Concussions.pdf (582.66 KB)

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The effects of fat-free vs. fat-containing chocolate milk ingestion on muscular strength in female Collegiate softball players

Thread:

research assignment3

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research assignment3

Author:

Access the profile card for user: Susan Proctor Susan Proctor

Posted Date:

October 27, 2013 7:55 PM

Status:

Published

The effects of fat-free vs. fat-containing chocolate milk ingestion on muscular strength in female

Collegiate softball players

Research Review #3

Purpose of Study:

            The purpose of this study, was to determine the effects of ingesting two forms of chocolate milk (fat free vs. fat containing) immediately after resistance exercise over an 8-week period to determine its effects on muscular strength

Methods and Materials:

In a double-blinded manner, 16 female collegiate softball players(18.4±0.6yrs;167.1±4.4cm;69.5±9.4kg) were randomized according to strength & bodyweight to ingest a fat free (300 kcals, 58g carbohydrate, 16g protein, 0g fat) or a fat-containing (380 kcals, 58g carbohydrate, 16g protein, 10g fat) chocolate milk beverage. The chocolate milk was ingested in a 16-ounce bottle & occurred immediately following all periodic resistance exercise training sessions for duration of 8-weeks.  Dependent variables included 1RM Bench Press and 1RM Leg Press which were assessed at baseline & following 8-weeks of periodic resistance training pro-gram. Dependent variables were assessed as changes

Summary of Results/Conclusion

                Based on these data, the ingestion of either fat-free chocolate milk or fat-containing chocolate  milk will have similar effects in relation to upper and lower body strength changes when ingested immediately following resistance exercise over an 8-week period in collegiate softball players.

Critique of the Study

                I believe this study was well thought out and executed. It was very interesting and something that I would have never thought of.

Reference

Campbell, B., Forsyth, A., Myers, B., Parker, B., Gomez, B., Elkins, A., & ... Marcello, B. (2012). The effects of fat-free vs. fat-containing chocolate milk ingestion on muscular strength in female collegiate softball players. Journal Of The International Society Of Sports Nutrition, 9(Suppl 1), 1-2.

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The influence of commercially-available carbohydrate and carbohydrate-protein supplements on endurance running performance in recreational athletes during a field trial

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The influence of commercially-available carbohydrate and carbohydrate-protein supplements on endurance running performance in recreational athletes during a field trial

Author:

Access the profile card for user: Katherine Spotswood Katherine Spotswood

Posted Date:

October 24, 2013 4:33 PM

Status:

Published

Katherine Spotswood

10/24/13

Research Review 3

Reference

Coletta, A., Thompson, D. L., & Raynor, H. A. (2013). The influence of commercially-available supplements on endurance running performance in recreational athletes during a field trial. Journal Of The International Society Of Sports Nutrition, 10(1), 1-7.

Purpose of the Study

The purpose of this study was to measure the effect of CHO and CHO-P supplementation under applied conditions of commercially available isocaloric and isocarbohydrate supplements compared to a placebo, in an outdoor running field trial, in order to assess their influence on endurance performance.  

Methods and Materials

The methods of this study include the random assignment of twelve male recreational runners from the University of Tennessee and a local running club. Runners were of 18-55 years of age, and engaged in running 45-90+ minutes up to four days a week. The supplements used in this study were commercially available. The Placebo used was Crystal Lite, the CHO supplement used was Gatorade, and the CHO-P supplement used was Accelerade. The study was a single-blind experiment. All running trials were conducted on an outdoor, paved running trail. For each trial participants were instructed to run with intensity similar to race pace, providing an all-out sprint for the last two laps. Supplementation was administered in 120ml servings five minutes before the start, and every 4km throughout the run (600ml total). Supplementation was not administered at the finish.  

Summary of Results and Conclusion

Outcomes indicated that there was no difference in athletic performance between commercially-available CHO and CHO-P supplementation during an endurance run. The results of this study yielded no significant differences in time to complete the 19.2 km run. The means and standard deviations of the variables are: Placebo =88.6 plus or minus 11.6 min; CHO =89.1 plus or minus 11.3 min; and CHO-P =89.1 plus or minus 11.8 min. The conclusion of this study demonstrates that commercially available CHO and CHO-P supplements do not appear to enhance performance in male recreational runners.   

Critique of the Study

This study is limited in its sample size (>15) and homogenous sample (all Caucasian males). Also this study did not control for participant exercise prior to each session or diet of the participants prior to each session. Evidence from this study and other research supports that CHO-P supplementation does not increase athletic performance and improvements in endurance performance greater than 60 minutes with CHO or CHO-P supplementation warrants further investigation

Practical Application of the Study

The use of CHO-P supplementation during exercise is becoming a rising trend among athletes, especially, endurance athletes as they strive to train harder and longer. Commercial CHO and CHO-P supplementation products can be misleading in the way they are advertised. The application of this study can be used to support the notion that CHO and CHO-P does not enhance performance.

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