Terms

Last Update - 09th September 2024

1. Introduction

Welcome to The After Circle (accessible at www.theaftercircle.com), an online storytelling and sharing platform designed for individuals exploring the therapeutic use of psychedelics, with a focus on writing and journaling as tools for personal healing. Our platform provides a space where users can share and explore personal stories, connect with others, and access creative resources related to psychedelics and healing.

By accessing The After Circle, whether as a registered member or a visitor, you agree to these terms and conditions as a binding agreement between you and The After Circle. These terms apply to all visitors, users, and others who access or use the service. If you do not agree to these terms, you may not use the platform.

1.1 What We Offer

On The After Circle, all users, including visitors and members, can explore a range of features and resources:

Tiered Membership Access: Users can join through different membership tiers to access gated content tailored to their needs.
Story Exploration: All users, whether members or not, can search and read personal stories from others who have used psychedelics as a healing tool.
Content Submission: Members can share their own unique and personal stories of experiences with psychedelics, either through a direct form or by responding to writing prompts.
Monthly Newsletter: Join a monthly newsletter that shares new stories, upcoming events, and resources.
Journaling Sessions: Participate in online or in-person journaling sessions centered on the therapeutic use of psychedelics and personal healing.
Workshops and Digital Downloads: Access downloadable digital journaling workshops covering a variety of topics related to psychedelics and healing.
Book Discovery: Discover a curated selection of books on psychedelics, spirituality, creativity, journaling, indigenous wisdom, and more.
Psychedelic-Inspired Art: Explore original artwork created by visionary artists within the community, with future plans to offer digital art prints for sale.

1.2 What We Don’t Do

The After Circle does not advocate, encourage, promote, or endorse the use of psychedelics, either for therapeutic, recreational, or any other purposes. All content on this platform, including user-submitted stories and experiences, is strictly personal, subjective, and anecdotal in nature. The content is provided solely for the purpose of sharing individual experiences and should not, under any circumstances, be interpreted as professional advice, guidance, or educational material.

Users should understand that the stories, information, and perspectives shared on The After Circle reflect personal interpretations and may not align with medical, scientific, or legal standards. The accuracy, reliability, or relevance of any content is not guaranteed. Users are advised not to take any actions based on the content provided without consulting with a qualified healthcare professional.

The After Circle assumes no responsibility or liability for the consequences of any actions taken based on the content shared on the platform. This includes, but is not limited to, the use of psychedelics or other controlled substances. By using the platform, you agree that all decisions and actions taken are your own responsibility and that you will not interpret any content as an endorsement of psychedelic use.

If you are considering the therapeutic use of psychedelics or any form of medical or psychological treatment, we strongly recommend consulting with a licensed healthcare professional. The After Circle does not provide medical, psychological, legal, or financial advice..

1.3 User Agreement and Membership

When signing up as a member of The After Circle, users must accept these terms and conditions as part of the registration process. By providing their email address and agreeing to the terms, users confirm their acceptance of the platform’s rules and policies. Similarly, any users who upload stories or other content to the platform must also accept the terms and conditions and provide a valid email address.

For users who do not register as members but access publicly available content, by continuing to browse and use The After Circle, you acknowledge that you are still subject to these terms and conditions.

1.4 Global Access and Availability

The After Circle is accessible to users worldwide; however, certain features or content may be subject to regional restrictions based on local laws or regulations. It is the user's responsibility to ensure their use of the platform complies with applicable laws in their jurisdiction.

2. Account Creation and User Responsibilities

2.1 Account Registration

To access certain features of The After Circle, users must create an account by providing accurate and truthful information. By creating an account, users agree to the following:

Required Information: Users must provide a valid email address, a password, and a username when registering. Usernames can be anonymous or not, depending on the user’s preference. After logging in, users have the option to link their social media accounts by providing their social media handle. This is optional and used solely for associating their stories with their social media profiles or to include their handle in posts from The After Circle about their story.
Username Guidelines: Users are recommended to create unique and anonymous usernames if they wish to remain anonymous, as usernames will be publicly displayed alongside their stories. Offensive or inappropriate usernames are not allowed and may result in account suspension.
Email Verification: To ensure account integrity, users are required to verify their email address before their account becomes active. This process ensures the validity of the provided email and allows for future account recovery if necessary.
Membership Tiers: Users may register under three different membership tiers:some text
- Group A: Free access to basic features.
- Group B: Paid membership at a lower price to support the platform.
- Group C: Paid membership at a higher price to provide additional support to the platform. While the benefits of each tier are not fully defined yet, users in paid tiers will receive additional access and features once available.
Minimum Age Requirement: All users must be at least 18 years old to create an account on The After Circle. By registering, users confirm they meet this age requirement. Failure to meet this requirement may result in account suspension or termination.
Approval Process: Account registration is automatic once users submit their details and agree to the terms and conditions. There is no manual approval process unless a violation of the platform’s guidelines is detected.
As a user of The After Circle, you are responsible for ensuring that your actions, including any content you submit, and your use of the platform comply with all applicable local, state, national, and international laws, particularly those related to controlled substances such as psychedelics.
By continuing to use the platform, you acknowledge that The After Circle does not advocate or promote the use of illegal substances and that any decisions or actions you take are your own responsibility. The After Circle assumes no liability for any legal consequences, personal harm, or damages resulting from your actions on or off the platform.

2.2 User Responsibilities

Users are responsible for maintaining the integrity and security of their accounts on The After Circle. By creating and maintaining an account, users agree to the following responsibilities:

Accuracy of Information: Users must provide accurate and truthful information during registration. If false information is discovered, users will be notified and given an opportunity to correct the information. If false or misleading information remains or is found to be intentionally deceptive, The After Circle reserves the right to suspend or terminate the account without further notice.
Account Security: Users are solely responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of their login credentials, including their password. The After Circle encourages users to choose strong passwords and not share their account details with others. While two-factor authentication is not currently available, it is part of future platform development.
Account Activity: Users are responsible for all activity that takes place under their account unless they report unauthorized access or a security breach promptly. If there is malicious or suspicious activity under an account without a valid report of unauthorized access, The After Circle reserves the right to suspend or terminate the account.
Reporting Unauthorized Access: Users must notify The After Circle immediately if they suspect any unauthorized access or activity under their account. Failure to report unauthorized access in a timely manner may result in the user being held responsible for any subsequent actions taken from their account.
Account Termination: The After Circle reserves the right to suspend or terminate user accounts if users violate the platform’s rules or guidelines. Users will be notified of any such actions, and an appeal process may be available for users to contest the suspension or termination decision.

3 Social Media Integration

The After Circle integrates social media and websites to enhance user profiles, stories, and artwork submissions. Users, including artists, agree to the following terms regarding the automatic linking of their social media accounts or websites:

Data Collected: If an artist or member provides their social media handle or website, only this information will be collected. This is solely used for linking the user’s stories or artwork to their social media profiles or websites for attribution and promotion.
Data Use: Social media handles and websites are automatically associated with an artist's uploaded artwork or a user’s stories. The After Circle may repost and tag the user or artist on social media platforms to promote their work or story. Any additional promotional content using a user’s social media handle or website will require explicit approval.some text
- For Artists: The After Circle automatically links the relevant artist's social media handle or website to their artwork on the platform. This integration ensures proper attribution and promotion of the artist's work. Artists can request to remove or update their social media handle, website, or artwork by contacting support at any time.
Permissions and Control: Users and artists have the right to request the removal of their social media handle, website, or any associated data from published stories or artwork. Artists can also request the removal of their artwork or any other linked data at any time by contacting The After Circle.
Social Media Login: The After Circle does not currently offer login through social media platforms like Facebook or Google. Social media integration is solely for automatically linking user stories and artwork to their social media profiles or websites for attribution and promotion.

4. User Profiles and Account Management

4.1 Profile Information

Publicly Visible Information: The only publicly visible identifier for users will be their username, which will appear alongside any published stories. For artists, their name and a URL to their social media profiles or websites will automatically be added to each piece of artwork they submit. Email addresses and passwords are not visible to other users, nor are they visible within the user’s profile. These details can only be changed through the user’s settings page.
Profile Visibility:some text
- General Users: No member profiles will be visible to other visitors or members of The After Circle. The only visible element will be the username associated with the user’s published stories.
- Artists: Artists' names and URLs to their social media profiles or websites will be visible to all visitors of the site in connection with their artwork and through artists galleries or profiles.
Editing Profile Information: Users can update or edit their username, email address, password, and social media handle at any time through their settings page.

4.2 Account Deletion and Data Removal

Account Deletion Process: Users can cancel their membership and delete their account at any time through the settings page. Once the account is deleted, all membership-related data, including personal information and access to gated content, will be removed from The After Circle.
Data Removal: After a user deletes their account, they will receive an email asking if they wish to remove any published stories they have submitted to The After Circle. Users have the option to request removal of specific data, such as published stories, without deleting their entire account by contacting the platform via support.
Retention of Published Data: If a user’s stories or artwork remain on the platform after the account is deleted, the content will continue to be attributed to the username provided at signup. This username can be changed by the user before deletion or by contacting support. Artists' artwork will continue to display their name and website or social media handle unless removal is requested.
Compliance with Data Protection Laws: The After Circle complies with GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and other applicable data protection laws. Users have the right to access, correct, or delete their personal data at any time. Requests to delete or remove data will be handled in compliance with GDPR timelines.
Timeframe for Account Deletion and Data Removal: Upon receiving a request for account deletion or data removal, The After Circle will process the request within a reasonable timeframe, typically within 30 days. This period may be extended in some cases, depending on the complexity of the request or legal requirements.

5. User Verification and Security

At The After Circle, we take user verification and account security seriously. The following outlines the processes in place to ensure the security and integrity of user accounts.

5.1 Email Verification

Verification Process: Upon registering for an account, users will receive a confirmation email with a link to verify their email address. Users must complete this verification process before their membership is fully activated and they can access gated content.
Failure to Verify: If users do not verify their email address within a reasonable time frame, their account will not be activated, and they will not be granted access to the gated content sections of the platform. Users can resend the verification email if needed.

5.2 Security Measures

User Passwords: Users must create a password that is at least 8 characters in length. While we do not enforce regular password updates, users are encouraged to choose strong, secure passwords to protect their accounts.
User Reporting of Suspicious Activity: If users notice any suspicious activity or believe their account has been compromised, they must report it immediately by contacting us at hello@theaftercircle.com. We will investigate the issue and take appropriate action to secure the account.

6. User Conduct and Community Guidelines

6.1 Prohibited Content

To ensure a safe and respectful environment, the following types of content are explicitly prohibited on The After Circle platform:

Illegal Content: Any content that violates the law, including content related to illegal activities.
Hate Speech: Content that promotes hate or violence against individuals or groups based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.
Harassment and Discrimination: Content that harasses, intimidates, or discriminates against any individual or group.
Explicit Content: Pornographic or obscene content that is not aligned with the platform's mission.
Promotion of Illegal Substances or Activities: Content that promotes or advocates for the use of illegal substances or activities, particularly related to psychedelics.
Sharing Personal Identifiable Information (PII): Users are strictly prohibited from sharing personally identifiable information (PII) about themselves or others. This includes full names, addresses, contact details, or specific locations.
Misleading or False Information: All content shared on the platform must be based on personal experiences and should be anecdotal in nature. The platform does not allow users to share content that provides misleading, inaccurate, or false information, especially regarding health and well-being. Content must not be educational, advisory, or instructional in nature.

If users encounter any prohibited content, they are encouraged to report it via email at hello@theaftercircle.com.

6.2 Consequences of Violations

Initial Warnings: As all content on The After Circle undergoes an internal review before publication, any violation of the platform's guidelines will be flagged, and the content will be addressed accordingly. Users will be informed if their content violates the guidelines before it is published.
Permanent Bans: Any user who continuously violates the platform’s terms, particularly by posting illegal content or engaging in prohibited behavior (such as harassment or sharing prohibited information), will have their membership and access to the platform permanently revoked.

6.3 Age Requirement

Minimum Age Requirement: The minimum age for users to access The After Circle platform is 18 years old.
Age Verification: Users must confirm their age during the signup process. No additional verification is required.
Consequences for Underage Users: If it is discovered that a user is under the age of 18, their account will be immediately terminated, and their membership will be revoked.

7. Moderation, Content Approval, and Intellectual Property

7.1 Moderation Process

Content Moderation:
When a user submits a story to The After Circle, the content undergoes a manual review by our team to ensure it adheres to our guidelines. Any required changes will be communicated to the user via email, allowing time for the user to review and approve the final draft before publication. The content is coupled with artwork, which may either come from external artists who have granted permission to use their art or from AI-generated tools.
Review Before Publication:
All content, including stories and artwork, will be reviewed by our team prior to being published on the platform. This ensures that the content aligns with The After Circle’s content guidelines.
Criteria for Moderation:
Content is reviewed to ensure it adheres to the platform's guidelines, including avoiding offensive, harmful, or prohibited content. Content must also comply with any legal requirements, as outlined in previous sections.
Notification of Edits or Rejections:
If the submitted content does not adhere to the platform’s guidelines, it will be rejected, and the user will be informed via email with reasons for the rejection.
User Appeals:
If a user’s content is rejected or modified and the user disagrees with the decision, they may appeal the decision by contacting hello@theaftercircle.com. Appeals will be reviewed by the moderation team.

7.2 Final Draft Submission

Submission Process:
Once a user submits a story, our team reviews the content and provides any suggested changes via email. The user will have the opportunity to review these changes before the final draft is published to the platform.
User Edits After Submission:
Users can request changes or edits to their stories or artwork after submission. Any modifications made after the initial submission will go through another review process to ensure the content continues to meet the platform’s guidelines.
Content Approval Notification:
Once the content has been approved and is live on the platform, the user will receive an email notification confirming that their content is published.

7.3 Intellectual Property Rights

Ownership of Original Content: Users retain ownership of the original content they create and upload to The After Circle, including stories, artwork, and other media. However, by submitting content to The After Circle, users grant the platform an extended, non-exclusive, worldwide, perpetual, irrevocable, royalty-free, sublicensable license to use, modify, adapt, display, distribute, and create derivative works from the content across any medium or platform, now known or developed in the future.

Expanded License Grant: By submitting content to The After Circle, users agree to grant the platform the following rights:

Right to Modify: The After Circle may modify or adapt the content for the purposes of editing, formatting, creating derivative works, and enhancing its display across different media, including, but not limited to, digital, print, video, and audio formats.
Right to Commercial Use: The After Circle may use the content in commercial projects, including but not limited to, advertising, merchandise, subscription services, premium memberships, and digital/print publications.
Right to Sublicense: The After Circle may sublicense these rights to third parties for the purposes of marketing, distribution, and partnership opportunities.
Right to Distribute: The After Circle may distribute and promote the content across various channels, including but not limited to social media, newsletters, email campaigns, advertising, multimedia platforms, and partnerships.
Content Use After Account Deletion: The platform reserves the right to continue displaying and using content even if the user deletes their account, unless the user explicitly requests its removal via email.

Revocation of License: Users may request the removal of specific content from The After Circle by contacting support. However, the license for any content already used in a commercial project, derivative work, or promotional material will remain in effect, and The After Circle retains the right to continue using that content.

Ownership of Modified or Platform-Created Content: While users retain ownership of the original content, The After Circle retains ownership of any modifications, adaptations, or derivative works created by the platform, particularly those involving significant editing, restructuring, or multimedia enhancements.

Content Use for Third-Party Collaborations: The After Circle reserves the right to share or license user-generated content to third-party platforms, collaborators, or media outlets for broader distribution, with proper attribution to the original creator, unless the user requests anonymity.

7.4 Copyright and Compliance

Reporting Copyright Infringement:
If users believe that their copyrighted content has been infringed upon by another user on The After Circle, they may submit a copyright infringement notice by contacting hello@theaftercircle.com. The notice must include:some text
- A description of the copyrighted work that is claimed to be infringed.
- Identification of the infringing material on the platform.
- The user’s contact information (name, address, email).
- A statement confirming that the claim is made in good faith.
User Responsibilities for Copyright:
Users are responsible for ensuring that the content they upload does not infringe upon any third-party copyrights. The After Circle will not be held liable for any copyright violations made by users.

8. Jurisdiction, Governing Law, and Dispute Resolution

8.1 Governing Law

The terms and conditions of The After Circle are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the United Kingdom, without regard to conflict of law provisions. Users acknowledge and agree that their use of the platform will be governed by UK law.

8.2 Jurisdiction for Global Users

For users outside the UK, you agree that any disputes arising out of or in connection with these terms shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales. However, if local laws in your jurisdiction apply mandatory consumer protection laws, you may also initiate disputes in your local courts.

8.3 Mandatory Binding Arbitration

Any dispute, claim, or controversy arising out of or relating to your use of The After Circle, including the interpretation, breach, termination, or enforcement of these terms, shall be resolved exclusively through binding arbitration.

Arbitration Rules: The arbitration will be administered by an internationally recognized arbitration body, such as the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) or another similar organization, under its rules in effect at the time of the dispute.
Location: Unless agreed otherwise, the arbitration will take place in London, UK.
Process: Any party wishing to arbitrate must first send a written notice of dispute to the other party and wait 30 days before initiating arbitration.
Language: Arbitration will be conducted in English.
Final Decision: The arbitrator's decision will be binding and enforceable in any court of competent jurisdiction.

8.4 No Class Action

Both parties agree that any dispute resolution proceedings will be conducted on an individual basis. Users cannot group together in a class action lawsuit or participate in a representative action. Each dispute must be handled individually.

8.5 Small Claims Option

You may also bring an individual claim in small claims court if your dispute qualifies under the court's rules and limits, rather than going through arbitration.

8.6 Mediation as a Pre-Arbitration Requirement

Before resorting to arbitration, both parties agree to first attempt to resolve any dispute through good faith mediation. Mediation must be attempted for at least 60 days before formal arbitration proceedings can begin.

8.7 Limitations on Damages

The After Circle will not be liable for indirect, incidental, special, or punitive damages, including loss of data, revenue, or goodwill. Any liability will be limited to the total amount paid by the user in the 12 months preceding the dispute.

8.8 Exceptions to Arbitration

The After Circle reserves the right to seek injunctive relief or urgent legal remedies in a court of competent jurisdiction to prevent irreparable harm, protect intellectual property, or ensure compliance with confidentiality agreements.

8.9 Time Limit for Claims

Any claim or cause of action must be filed within 12 months after the event or cause giving rise to the claim. After this time, claims will be barred.

8.10 Indemnification

Users agree to indemnify and hold harmless The After Circle, its directors, officers, employees, and agents from any claims, damages, liabilities, costs, or expenses (including legal fees) arising from:

Their use of the platform.
Any violation of these terms.
Any content they submit to the platform.

This indemnification includes covering any legal fees or costs incurred by The After Circle in defending against claims brought by third parties as a result of user actions or content.

8.11 Time Limits for Claims

Any claim or cause of action arising out of or related to the use of the platform or these terms must be filed within 12 months after such claim or cause of action arose, or it will be forever barred.

8.12 Disclaimer of Warranties

The services provided by The After Circle are offered on an "as is" and "as available" basis, without any warranties of any kind, either express or implied. To the fullest extent permitted under applicable law, The After Circle disclaims all warranties, including but not limited to:

Implied Warranties of Merchantability and Fitness for a Particular Purpose: The After Circle does not warrant that the platform will meet users' specific requirements, be uninterrupted, timely, secure, or free from errors.
Accuracy of Content: The After Circle makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, reliability, completeness, or suitability of any content available through the platform. All user-generated content is subjective and anecdotal, and the platform is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or misinterpretations. Content should not be used as a basis for making decisions regarding the use of psychedelics, health treatments, or any other activities.
No Warranty Regarding Legal or Medical Outcomes: The After Circle explicitly disclaims any responsibility for the consequences of actions taken based on user-generated content, especially those relating to the use of psychedelics or other controlled substances. Users are solely responsible for their own decisions and actions, and The After Circle does not guarantee any positive or intended outcomes from consuming the platform’s content.
No Warranty Against Viruses or Malicious Software: The After Circle does not guarantee that the platform is free of viruses, malware, or other harmful components, and users are responsible for taking appropriate security measures.
No Warranty Regarding Therapeutic Results: The After Circle does not warrant or make any guarantees regarding personal healing, therapeutic results, or outcomes related to the content on the platform. Any decisions made based on the content are the sole responsibility of the user.

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8.13 Limitation of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, The After Circle and its directors, officers, employees, agents, and partners will not be liable for any damages, whether direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, or punitive, arising out of or related to:

Use or Inability to Use the Platform: Any damages resulting from the user's inability to access or use the platform, interruptions to the platform, or any errors or omissions in the platform's content or functionality.
User-Generated Content: Any damages resulting from user-generated content on the platform, including inaccuracies, defamation, or offensive materials, whether posted by users or third parties.
Unauthorized Access to Personal Information: Any unauthorized access to or use of the platform’s servers and any personal information stored therein.
Loss of Data: Any loss of data or damages related to the unauthorized access, use, or modification of data stored or transmitted through the platform.
Limitation on Financial Liability: In any event, the total liability of The After Circle for any claim arising out of or related to the use of the platform will not exceed the amount paid by the user, if any, to The After Circle during the twelve (12) months preceding the event giving rise to the claim.
Exclusion of Certain Damages: The After Circle will not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages, including but not limited to damages for loss of profits, goodwill, use, data, or other intangible losses, even if The After Circle has been advised of the possibility of such damages.

9. User Acknowledgment of Legal Responsibility

By using The After Circle, you agree to the following:

You are solely responsible for ensuring that your use of the platform, and any actions taken based on its content, comply with all applicable local, state, national, and international laws, including those relating to controlled substances such as psychedelics.
You acknowledge that The After Circle does not endorse or encourage any illegal activities and that any decisions or actions you take are done at your own risk.
You understand that The After Circle assumes no liability for any legal or personal consequences resulting from your use of the platform or the content provided.
You confirm that you are at least 18 years of age or the legal age of majority in your jurisdiction.

10. Third-Party Links

10.1 Third-Party Disclaimer

The platform may contain links to third-party websites, services, or resources that are not owned or controlled by The After Circle. By using the platform, you acknowledge and agree that:

No Control Over Third-Party Content: The After Circle does not control, endorse, or assume responsibility for any content, products, services, or practices of third-party websites or resources that may be linked to or referenced on the platform.
No Liability for Third-Party Actions: The After Circle is not responsible or liable, directly or indirectly, for any damage or loss caused by or in connection with the use of any third-party content, products, or services. This includes, but is not limited to, the accuracy, legality, or quality of any content on third-party websites.
User Responsibility: By clicking on a third-party link or using a third-party service, you acknowledge that you are leaving The After Circle platform, and you do so at your own risk. Users are responsible for reading and understanding the terms and privacy policies of any third-party websites they visit.
No Endorsement Implied: The inclusion of any third-party link on The After Circle does not imply any endorsement, sponsorship, or affiliation with the linked website or its operators.

11. Force Majeure

11.1 Service Disruption Due to Events Beyond Control

The After Circle shall not be liable for any failure or delay in the performance of its obligations under these terms due to events beyond its reasonable control, including but not limited to:

Acts of God (natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, hurricanes).
War, terrorism, or civil unrest.
Government actions, regulations, or restrictions.
Strikes, labor disputes, or industrial action.
Power outages, internet failures, or disruptions in telecommunication services.
Epidemics, pandemics, or other public health crises.

In the event of any such occurrence, The After Circle reserves the right to suspend or delay the services offered on the platform until such time as the event is resolved, without incurring any liability to users.

12. Changes to Terms and Conditions

12.1 Update Process

The After Circle reserves the right to modify or update these terms and conditions at any time at its sole discretion. When updates are made, the following process will be followed:

Notification of Changes: Users will be notified of any material changes to the terms and conditions via email (if they have provided one) or through a prominent notice on the platform. Users are responsible for reviewing the updated terms.
Acceptance of Changes: Continued use of the platform after the terms and conditions have been updated will constitute acceptance of the new terms. If users do not agree with the changes, they must cease using the platform and may request to terminate their account.

12.2 Version History

The After Circle will maintain a version history of the terms and conditions, which will be accessible on the platform. The version history will include:

The effective date of each version.
A summary of the major changes in each version.

This allows users to review previous versions of the terms and understand how the terms have evolved over time.

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