Edema: Understanding the Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

JiangRuoan

List of Pertinent Information on Edema (without duplication):

– Edema is a condition characterized by swelling caused by an accumulation of fluid in the body’s tissues.
– It commonly affects the legs and feet.
– Causes of edema include medications, pregnancy, or underlying diseases.
– Underlying diseases associated with edema include congestive heart failure, kidney disease, venous insufficiency, and liver cirrhosis.
– Symptoms of edema include swelling or puffiness of the skin, stretched or shiny skin, retention of a dimple after being pressed, swelling of the abdomen, and a feeling of leg heaviness.
– Immediate medical attention is necessary for symptoms such as shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, chest pain, and persistent leg pain and swelling, especially if it is on one side.
– Symptoms like shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, or chest pain can indicate pulmonary edema, a life-threatening condition.
– Leg pain and swelling that does not go away, particularly if it is on one side, may be symptoms of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and should be addressed by a healthcare provider.
– Edema occurs when capillaries leak fluid, causing swelling.
– Causes of mild edema include sitting for too long, eating salty food, being premenstrual, or being pregnant.
– Medications that can cause edema include high blood pressure medicines, anti-inflammatory medicines, steroid medicines, estrogens, certain diabetes medicines, and nerve pain medicines.
– Edema can be a sign of more serious conditions such as congestive heart failure, liver damage (cirrhosis), kidney disease, damage to the veins in the legs (chronic venous insufficiency), and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
– Other factors that can cause edema are blood clots in the leg veins (deep vein thrombosis), problems with the lymphatic system, and severe protein deficiency.
– Risk factors for edema include pregnancy, certain medications, long-lasting illnesses like congestive heart failure or liver/kidney disease, and surgeries involving lymph nodes.
– If left untreated, edema can lead to complications.

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PCOS: Understanding the Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

JiangRuoan

– PCOS is a condition in which the ovaries produce an abnormal amount of androgens, male sex hormones.
– Women with PCOS may have many small cysts in their ovaries.
– The condition can cause problems with a woman’s menstrual cycle and lead to symptoms such as missed or irregular periods, excess body hair, weight gain, acne, and infertility.
– PCOS may be caused by insulin resistance and can run in families.
– Diagnosis of PCOS involves a medical history, physical exam, pelvic exam, ultrasound to check for cysts, and blood tests.
– Treatment typically involves medication to help manage symptoms and prevent health problems.
– Women with PCOS are at higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart problems, and uterine cancer.
– Seeking medical care is recommended if experiencing missed or irregular periods, excess hair growth, acne, and weight gain.
– Treatment options depend on various factors such as age, severity of symptoms, and desire for pregnancy.
– For those planning to become pregnant, treatment may involve changes in diet, increased physical activity, and medications to induce ovulation.
– For those not planning to become pregnant, treatment may include birth control pills, diabetes medication to lower insulin resistance, changes in diet and activity, and medications to manage other symptoms such as hair growth or acne.
– Cosmetic treatments such as electrolysis and laser hair removal can help manage physical symptoms.

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Preeclampsia: Understanding, Prevention, and Optimal Management Approaches Revealed

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– Preeclampsia is a complication of pregnancy.
– Symptoms include high blood pressure, proteinuria, and organ damage.
– It usually occurs after 20 weeks of pregnancy in women with previously normal blood pressure.
– If left untreated, it can be fatal for both mother and baby.
– Early delivery of the baby is often recommended, based on the severity of the condition and gestational age.
– Treatment includes monitoring and medications to lower blood pressure and manage complications.
– Preeclampsia can also develop after delivery, known as postpartum preeclampsia.
– Preeclampsia is a serious condition that can occur after the 20th week of pregnancy or after giving birth.
– It can cause high blood pressure and affect the functioning of organs such as the kidneys and liver.
– Preeclampsia is responsible for 10 to 15 percent of maternal deaths worldwide.
– In the United States, it affects 5 to 8 percent of pregnancies and often leads to preterm birth.
– Signs and symptoms of preeclampsia include high blood pressure, changes in vision, headaches, nausea, pain in the upper right belly area, sudden weight gain, swelling, and trouble breathing.
– Taking low-dose aspirin may help reduce the risk of preeclampsia and preterm birth for some women.
– Low-dose aspirin, also known as baby aspirin or 81 mg aspirin, can be bought over-the-counter or prescribed by a healthcare provider.
– It is important to follow the recommended dosage and instructions given by the healthcare provider when taking low-dose aspirin for preeclampsia prevention.
– The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states that taking low-dose aspirin during pregnancy has a low risk of serious complications and is considered safe.
– Risk factors for preeclampsia include a history of preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy, pregnancy with multiples (twins, triplets), high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, or autoimmune diseases like lupus. Other risk factors include being a first-time mother, having obesity, a family history of preeclampsia, complications in previous pregnancies, fertility treatment like in vitro fertilization (IVF), and being older than 35.
– Certain groups, such as African-American women and those with lower income, are at higher risk for complications like preeclampsia due to historical health disparities and unequal access to healthcare.
– Without treatment, preeclampsia can have serious health consequences for both the mother and baby, potentially leading to death.
– Preeclampsia is a condition during pregnancy that can lead to serious complications and even death for both the mother and baby.
– The condition can cause kidney, liver, and brain damage, as well as problems with blood clotting.
– Eclampsia, characterized by seizures or a coma, is a rare and life-threatening complication that can occur after preeclampsia.
– Stroke can occur if the blood supply to the brain is interrupted or reduced.
– Pregnancy complications from preeclampsia include preterm birth, placental abruption, and intrauterine growth restriction.
– Preeclampsia narrows blood vessels in the uterus and placenta, resulting in poor growth of the baby in the womb.
– Low birth weight and postpartum hemorrhage are potential complications of preeclampsia.
– Preeclampsia increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and kidney disease later in life.
– Diagnosis of preeclampsia involves measuring blood pressure and testing urine for protein at every prenatal visit. Additional lab work and ultrasound tests may be done.
– Treatment for preeclampsia depends on its severity and the stage of pregnancy. Mild cases may require regular monitoring and check-ups, potentially including hospitalization.
– Most women with mild preeclampsia are delivered by 37 weeks of pregnancy.
– Severe preeclampsia combined with HELLP syndrome requires early delivery. Blood transfusions may be necessary.
– Vaginal birth may be safer than a C-section, as long as there are no complications with blood clotting.
– Postpartum preeclampsia is a rare condition that can occur within 48 hours to 6 weeks after giving birth. It requires medical attention.
– Possible risk factors for postpartum preeclampsia include previous gestational hypertension or preeclampsia, obesity, and c-section.
– Complications from postpartum preeclampsia include HELLP syndrome, seizures, pulmonary edema, stroke, and thromboembolism.
– Diagnosis is done through blood and urine tests.
– Treatment may include magnesium sulfate to prevent seizures and medication to lower blood pressure.

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Pregnancy: Navigating the Changes, Challenges, and Delightful Discoveries

JiangRuoan

– Pregnancy usually lasts about 40 weeks, or just over 9 months
– Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters
– First Trimester: Conception occurs, fertilized egg implants in uterine wall
– Second Trimester: Sex of baby can often be determined, movement can be felt, footprints and fingerprints form, survival rate for babies born at 28 weeks is 92%
– Third Trimester: Bones become almost fully formed at 32 weeks, infants born before 37 weeks are considered preterm and at risk for complications such as developmental delays, vision and hearing problems, and cerebral palsy, infants born between 34 and 36 weeks are considered “late preterm,” infants born at 37-38 weeks are now considered “early term” and face more health risks than those born at 39 weeks or later, full-term infants born at 39-40 weeks have better health outcomes, infants born at 41-41 weeks and 6 days are considered late term, infants born at 42 weeks and beyond are considered post term.

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The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Successful CPA

JiangRuoan

– The CPA Exam is required to become a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
– The CPA Exam consists of four sections: Auditing and Attestation (AUD), Business Environment and Concepts (BEC), Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR), and Regulation (REG).
– Other requirements for becoming a CPA may vary depending on jurisdiction.
– Changes to the CPA Exam are expected in 2024.
– CPAs earn their designation through educational training, experience, and passing the CPA Exam.
– CPAs have more flexibility and mobility in their career.
– They can become licensed in multiple states based on reciprocity laws.
– CPAs are sought out for their reliability, industry knowledge, and credentials.
– CPAs work in sectors such as public accounting, business and industry, government, education, and non-profit.
– CPAs are not limited to one industry or job function.
– They can perform services such as auditing, tax preparation, consulting, financial planning, and litigation consulting.
– Acquiring a CPA license requires time, patience, and planning.
– CPAs are required to complete 40 hours of continuing professional education (CPE) each year.
– The CPA license is considered prestigious and one of the highest accounting designations.
– Becoming a CPA assures quality and shows that an accounting professional has met high standards.
– Some reasons to become a CPA include prestige and respect, career development, and career security.
– After earning the CPA designation, individuals are more qualified to perform highly-specialized tasks.
– The average CPA accounting salary may be higher than other accounting professionals.
– All states require some level of accounting education to become a licensed CPA.
– Some states have experience requirements, such as a year of work experience under the supervision of a licensed CPA.
– The CPA Exam includes four separate sections: Auditing and Attestation, Business Environment and Concepts, Financial Accounting and Reporting, and Regulation.
– Some states may require an ethics exam or ethics course to finalize CPA licensure.
– The CPA license shows that a professional accountant has met the profession’s highest standard of achievement.
– Each state has different requirements for taking the CPA Exam and earning CPA licensure.
– CPA license holders can work in a variety of sectors, including public accounting, business and industry, government, education, and non-profit.

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HPV: Understanding the Risks, Symptoms, and Prevention Strategies

JiangRuoan

– HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI)
– There were about 43 million HPV infections in 2018, primarily among people in their late teens and early 20s
– HPV can cause health problems, including genital warts and cancers
– HPV is different from HIV and herpes
– HPV is spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex, as well as close skin-to-skin touching during sex
– People with HPV can transmit the infection even if they have no signs or symptoms
– HPV can go away on its own within two years in most cases, but if it persists, it can lead to health problems like genital warts and cancer
– HPV can cause cervical and other cancers, including cancer of the vulva, vagina, penis, or anus, as well as oropharyngeal cancer (cancer in the back of the throat)
– Genital warts and cancers are caused by different types of HPV
– People with weak immune systems, including those with HIV, may be at higher risk for developing health problems from HPV
– To avoid HPV and its health problems, it is recommended to get vaccinated, particularly within the recommended age groups
– Routine screening for cervical cancer is important for women aged 21 to 65
– Using condoms consistently can lower the chances of getting HPV, but they do not provide complete protection
– Being in a mutually monogamous relationship or having sex only with someone who is HPV-free can also reduce the risk of contracting HPV
– CDC recommends HPV vaccination for all preteens at age 11 or 12, or can start at age 9
– HPV vaccination is recommended for everyone through age 26, if not vaccinated already
– Vaccination is not recommended for everyone older than age 26, but some adults age 27 through 45 who are not already vaccinated may decide to get the HPV vaccine after speaking with their healthcare provider
– Most sexually active adults have already been exposed to HPV, although not necessarily all of the HPV types targeted by vaccination
– Having a new sex partner at any age is a risk factor for getting a new HPV infection
– There is no test to find out a person’s “HPV status” and there is no approved HPV test to find HPV in the mouth or throat
– HPV tests are recommended for screening women aged 30 years and older, but not for men, adolescents, or women under the age of 30
– Most people with HPV do not know they have the infection and never develop symptoms or health problems from it
– Genital warts caused by HPV affected roughly 340,000 to 360,000 people yearly
– About one in 100 sexually active adults in the U.S. has genital warts at any given time
– Nearly 12,000 women living in the U.S. have cervical cancer every year, with more than 4,000 women dying from it even with screening and treatment
– Every year, about 19,400 women and 12,100 men in the U.S. experience cancers caused by HPV
– Pregnant individuals with HPV can develop genital warts or abnormal cell changes on the cervix
– Routine cervical cancer screening can detect these abnormal cell changes
– Pregnant individuals should continue to undergo routine cervical cancer screening
– There is no treatment for the HPV virus itself
– Treatment options are available for health problems caused by HPV

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Spina Bifida Awareness: Understanding, Prevention, and Support

JiangRuoan

– Spina bifida is a condition that affects the spine and is usually apparent at birth.
– It is a type of neural tube defect (NTD).
– Spina bifida can happen anywhere along the spine if the neural tube does not close all the way.
– Spina bifida might cause physical and intellectual disabilities that range from mild to severe.
– The three most common types of spina bifida are:
1. Myelomeningocele
2. Meningocele
3. Spina Bifida Occulta
– Spina bifida can be diagnosed during pregnancy through screening tests like AFP (alpha-fetoprotein) blood test and ultrasound.
– Spina bifida can sometimes be diagnosed during pregnancy through tests such as blood tests and amniocentesis which measure the levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in the mother’s blood or amniotic fluid.
– In some cases, spina bifida can only be diagnosed after the baby is born through physical examination or imaging scans such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans.
– Treatment for spina bifida varies depending on the severity of the condition, with more serious cases requiring more treatments.
– The causes of spina bifida are still not fully understood, but genetics and environmental factors are believed to play a role.
– There are ways for women to reduce the risk of having a baby with spina bifida, such as taking folic acid supplements, managing medical conditions before pregnancy, and avoiding overheating the body.
– Taking folic acid can help reduce the risk of having a pregnancy affected by spina bifida.
– All pregnancies in the United States are unplanned.
– It is advised that all women who can become pregnant take 400 mcg of folic acid daily.
– Spina bifida can vary in severity.
– Some people with spina bifida may have little to no disability.
– Others may experience limitations in their movement and functionality.
– Severe cases of spina bifida can result in paralysis or an inability to walk or move certain body parts.
– With appropriate care, most individuals affected by spina bifida can lead full and productive lives.
– The article also mentions the availability of information on living with spina bifida at different ages.

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Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Explained

JiangRuoan

– Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone.
– It can cause symptoms such as weight loss, hand tremors, rapid or irregular heartbeat, increased hunger, nervousness, anxiety, irritability, sweating, changes in menstrual cycles, increased sensitivity to heat, changes in bowel patterns, enlarged thyroid gland, tiredness, muscle weakness, sleep problems, warm and moist skin, thinning skin, and fine, brittle hair.
– Older adults may have symptoms that are hard to notice, including irregular heartbeat, depression, and weakness or tiredness during normal activities.
– It can be difficult to diagnose hyperthyroidism as its symptoms can resemble other health problems.
– If someone experiences symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as unexplained weight loss, rapid heartbeat, sweating, or swelling at the base of the neck, they should see a doctor.
– Treatment options include anti-thyroid medicines, radioiodine, and surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid gland.
– Regular follow-up visits with a healthcare provider are typically required after a diagnosis of hyperthyroidism.
– The main causes of hyperthyroidism are Graves’ disease, overactive thyroid nodules, and thyroiditis.
– Risk factors for hyperthyroidism include a family history of thyroid disease, certain chronic illnesses, and recent pregnancy.
– Complications of hyperthyroidism include heart problems such as atrial fibrillation and congestive heart failure.
– Brittle bones (osteoporosis) can result from untreated hyperthyroidism.
– Thyroid eye disease is a possible complication of hyperthyroidism, particularly for smokers. Symptoms include bulging eyes, gritty sensation, pressure or pain, puffy or retracted eyelids, red or inflamed eyes, light sensitivity, and double vision.
– Graves’ disease can lead to Graves’ dermopathy, a condition characterized by discolored and swollen skin, usually on the shins and feet.
– Thyrotoxic crisis (or thyroid storm) is a rare but serious condition that can occur with hyperthyroidism. It requires emergency medical care and may present severe, sometimes life-threatening symptoms.

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Understanding Endometriosis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments, and Support

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– Endometriosis is a disease in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus.
– It can cause severe pelvic pain and make it harder to get pregnant.
– The cause of endometriosis is unknown, and there is no known way to prevent it.
– There is no cure for endometriosis, but its symptoms can be treated with medicines or surgery.
– It causes a chronic inflammatory reaction and can result in the formation of scar tissue.
– Different types of endometriosis lesions have been described, including superficial, cystic ovarian, and deep endometriosis.
– Symptoms of endometriosis include severe pelvic pain, pain during sex or when using the bathroom, trouble getting pregnant, heavy bleeding, bloating, fatigue, depression, and anxiety.
– Retrograde menstruation, cellular metaplasia, and stem cells are thought to contribute to the development of endometriosis.
– Estrogen is known to be involved in endometriosis, but the relationship is complex.
– Endometriosis has significant social, public health, and economic implications.
– It can decrease quality of life due to severe pain, fatigue, depression, anxiety, and infertility.
– Pain can prevent individuals from going to work or school.
– Painful sex due to endometriosis can impact sexual health.
– There is currently no known way to prevent endometriosis.
– Early diagnosis and management can slow or halt the progression of the disease.
– Several screening tools and tests have been proposed but none are validated to accurately identify the disease.
– Ultrasonography or MRI can be used to detect certain forms of endometriosis.
– Histologic verification through surgical/laparoscopic visualization can help confirm diagnosis.
– Treatments for endometriosis vary based on symptom severity and desire for pregnancy.
– No treatments cure the disease.
– Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and painkillers like ibuprofen can be used to treat pain.
– Hormonal medicines and contraceptive methods can help control pain.
– Fertility medicines and procedures may be used for those having difficulty getting pregnant.
– Surgery is sometimes used to remove endometriosis lesions and scar tissue.
– Treatment options depend on individual preferences, effectiveness, side effects, safety, cost, and availability.
– Raising awareness can lead to early diagnosis and treatment.
– Hormonal management can have adverse side effects and may not be suitable for individuals with endometriosis who want to get pregnant.
– Success in reducing pain symptoms and increasing pregnancy rates through surgery depends on the severity of the disease.
– Lesions may recur even after successful treatment, and pelvic floor muscle abnormalities can contribute to chronic pelvic pain.
– Physiotherapy and complementary treatments may benefit patients with secondary changes in the pelvis and central sensitization.
– Treatment options for infertility caused by endometriosis include surgical removal, ovarian stimulation with intrauterine insemination, and in vitro fertilization.
– Lack of awareness among the general public and healthcare providers can lead to a delay in diagnosis.
– Limited awareness of endometriosis among primary healthcare providers can result in a lack of medical treatment for symptomatic management.
– Access to specialized surgery is sub-optimal in many countries, particularly low and middle-income countries.
– Screening and accurate prediction tools for endometriosis are lacking.
– Non-invasive diagnostic methods and medical treatments that do not prevent pregnancy are needed.
– WHO recognizes the impact of endometriosis on sexual and reproductive health and aims to stimulate effective policies and interventions globally.
– WHO partners with various stakeholders, including research institutions and patient support groups, to address endometriosis.
– WHO collaborates with stakeholders to collect and analyze endometriosis prevalence data for decision-making.

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Gonorrhea: Understanding the Silent STI Epidemic & Prevention

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– Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted disease caused by infection with the Neisseria gonorrhoeae bacterium.
– It infects the reproductive tract in women and the urethra in both men and women, but can also infect other mucous membranes.
– Approximately 1.6 million new gonococcal infections occurred in the US in 2018, with more than half occurring among young people aged 15-24.
– Gonorrhea is the second most commonly reported bacterial sexually transmitted infection in the US.
– Gonorrhea is transmitted through sexual contact with an infected partner, and can also be spread from mother to baby during childbirth.
– Any sexually active person can be infected with gonorrhea, with the highest reported rates of infection among sexually active teenagers, young adults, and African Americans.
– Many men and women with gonorrhea are asymptomatic.
– Symptoms in men may include dysuria, urethral discharge, and testicular or scrotal pain.
– Symptoms in women may include dysuria, increased vaginal discharge, vaginal bleeding between periods, and are often mistaken for other infections.
– Rectal infection may cause discharge, itching, soreness, bleeding, or painful bowel movements.
– Pharyngeal infection may cause a sore throat, but is usually asymptomatic.
– Untreated gonorrhea can lead to serious health problems such as pelvic inflammatory disease in women, which can cause abdominal pain, fever, abscesses, chronic pain, infertility, and increased risk of ectopic pregnancy.
– Gonorrhea can cause epididymitis and potentially infertility in men.
– Untreated gonorrhea can also spread to the blood and cause disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI), which can be life-threatening.
– Gonorrhea can increase the risk of acquiring or transmitting HIV.
– Pregnant women with gonorrhea can pass the infection to their baby during delivery, leading to complications such as blindness or blood infection.
– Testing for gonorrhea is recommended for sexually active individuals, especially those with symptoms or who have a partner with gonorrhea.
– The recommended treatment is a single 500 mg intramuscular dose of ceftriaxone, although alternative regimens are available.
– Antimicrobial resistance in gonorrhea is a growing concern.
– Individuals treated for pharyngeal gonorrhea should undergo a test-of-cure 7-14 days after treatment.
– Men and women with gonorrhea should be retested three months after treatment, regardless of their partner’s treatment status.
– Suspected gonorrhea treatment failure or reduced cephalosporin susceptibility can be reported through the Suspected Gonorrhea Treatment Failure Consultation Form.
– It is advised that individuals inform their recent sex partners about their diagnosis so they can seek treatment.
– It is recommended to avoid sexual activity until completing treatment and being symptom-free.
– Latex condoms can reduce the transmission risk of gonorrhea.
– Abstaining from sex or being in a monogamous relationship with a tested and uninfected partner is the most effective way to prevent gonorrhea transmission.
– Genital symptoms such as discharge, burning during urination, sores, or rash should prompt immediate medical attention.
– People who have recently had a sexual partner diagnosed with an STD should seek evaluation.
– Yearly gonorrhea screening is recommended for sexually active women younger than 25 years and older women with risk factors.
– Urogenital gonorrhea can be diagnosed using urine or genital specimens with nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT) or gonorrhea culture.
– CDC recommends a single 500 mg intramuscular dose of ceftriaxone for the treatment of gonorrhea.
– Alternative regimens are available if ceftriaxone cannot be used.
– Antimicrobial resistance in gonorrhea is a growing concern.
– It is important for individuals who are treated for gonorrhea to return to a healthcare provider for reevaluation and a test-of-cure 7-14 days after treatment for throat infections.
– Both men and women should be retested three months after treatment, regardless of their partners’ treatment outcomes.
– Suspected treatment failure can be reported through a consultation form.
– It is important for individuals to inform their recent sex partners so that they can also seek treatment.
– It is advised to refrain from sexual activity until completion of treatment and symptoms have resolved.
– Latex condoms, when used consistently and correctly, can help reduce the risk of gonorrhea transmission.
– Abstinence or being in a mutually monogamous relationship with a non-infected partner are recommended for preventing STD transmission.

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