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  • Simulation Department

    Simulation Department

    Upstate Medical University Simulation & Clinical Skills Center

  • Simulation Department

    Simulation Department

    Upstate Medical University Simulation & Clinical Skills Center

  • Simulation Department

    Simulation Department

    Upstate Medical University Simulation & Clinical Skills Center

  • Simulation Department

    Simulation Department

    Upstate Medical University Simulation & Clinical Skills Center

  • Simulation Department

    Simulation Department

    Upstate Medical University Simulation & Clinical Skills Center

  • Simulation Department

    Simulation Department

    Upstate Medical University Simulation & Clinical Skills Center

The Upstate Simulation Department provides a transformational educational platform that contributes to a safer and more collaborative healthcare culture.


Simulation Department

Welcome to the University Simulation Department, a dual-facility hub dedicated to advancing healthcare education and training. Our department encompasses two prime locations: the University Simulation Center in Weiskotten Hall and the Clinical Skills Center (CSC) in Setnor Hall. Centrally situated on Upstate Medical University's academic campus, we cater to the diverse educational and training needs of the university and its healthcare professionals.

The CSC is the primary venue for high-stakes and exam-based simulated patient encounters, ensuring rigorous and realistic assessments. Meanwhile, the University Simulation Center specializes in procedural training and a wide range of other human and manikin-based simulations. Both centers, conveniently located on the same floor and separated by just a hallway, are easily accessible without the need to go outside. For added convenience, directional signage on the ceiling guides you seamlessly from the hospital connector bridge to our facilities.

Key Space Features

The Simulation Department consists of:

  • A general open staging area to greet and host learners (“Learner Landing”)
  • Twenty-two clinic exam rooms for standardized patient (SP) encounters
  • One simulated operating room
  • Six simulation acute care suites
  • Two procedural task training rooms that can be de-partitioned to accommodate large sessions
  • A haptics training room
  • Multiple small debrief rooms that can be de-partitioned to accommodate larger debriefing sessions

Additionally, all simulated spaces are equipped with AV recording and playback capability .

SIM CENTER VIRTUAL TOUR

Simulation Department at Upstate Medical University

Main Office: Weiskotten Hall 241
766 Irving Ave
Syracuse, NY 13210
Phone: 315-464-3848

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The mission of the Upstate Medical University Simulation Department is to promote excellence in patient care by providing interactive educational experiences that support the growth and development of learners along the continuum of training and professional practice.

About Us

We believe experiential learning is key to success in the modern healthcare system. Our team is dedicated to providing a rigorous educational framework, supported by outstanding customer service, to advance the transformational skills necessary for supporting patients and their families.  Join us in our mission to enhance healthcare education and patient support.

Leadership

Hesham Masoud, MD

Hesham Masoud

MD, RPNI, CHSE
Executive Director of Simulation
Erin Graham

Erin Graham

MPH, CHSE, CHSOS
Director of Simulation Operations
Matthew Capogreco

Matthew Capogreco

Standardized/Simulated Patient Program Director

Simulation Team

Patricia Donohue-Carey

Patricia Donohue-Carey

Simulation Education Coordinator
Megan Barbour

Megan Barbour

Simulation Education Coordinator
Sue Davie

Sue Davie

Administrative Assistant
Chelsea Gordon

Chelsea Gordon

Administrative Assistant
Team member, Shannon Summers

Shannon Summers

CHSOS
Simulation Operations Specialist
Simulation Center Staff Photo Kate Miller

Kate Miller

CHSOS
Simulation Operations Specialist
calabria

Ambrosia Lupia

Simulation Operations Specialist

Request Forms

Explore the potential of partnering with our simulation department to achieve better outcomes together. Meet with a team member to discover how we can support your education and training programs. The Upstate Simulation Department employs a structured intake process to provide resources such as space, SPs, and equipment.

To make the process as seamless as possible, please take a moment to review our Request and Scheduling FAQs before completing a request form.  We look forward to collaborating with you soon!

Top Ways to Partner With Us:

  • Host your event or training course at our state-of-the-art simulation center.
  • Collaborate with us to design and publish innovative research projects.
  • Develop and integrate interdisciplinary case-based learning scenarios into your clinical curriculum with our expertise.
  • Schedule a tour of our facility to explore our extensive resources and capabilities.
  • Partner with us to test and refine your medical devices in a controlled, realistic setting.
  • Use our facility to film medical scenes with authentic clinical environments.

Request and Scheduling FAQs

I already filled out a request form last year, do I need to resubmit?

For the 2024-2025 academic year, yes, you will need to submit a new request form. We’re excited to introduce a new request system designed to streamline the process and better track updates.

How does it work?

  • Repository of Request Forms: Moving forward, all internal requests will be housed in a centralized repository. This allows us to maintain a clear record of your submissions and any updates.
  • Status Updates: At each priority deadline, you’ll receive an email prompting you to submit a status update or a new request, depending on your needs. Even if you don’t need to make changes, a status update is required to keep your session active and on our schedule.
  • External Clients: Please note that external clients must complete a new request form each year to ensure we have the most current information.

Why is this important?
This new system helps us stay on top of any changes to course content, timing, and other key details, ensuring your sessions are as effective and timely as possible.

What are your hours of operation?

The department is open Monday-Friday, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm. Session requests outside of business hours will require prior approval and depend on resource availability.

What are the deadlines and scheduling cycles?

Here’s how it works:

  1. Priority Scheduling: We have two key deadlines each year to ensure all requests are reviewed and approved efficiently:

    • November 1 Deadline: For sessions scheduled between January 1 and May 31.
    • April 1 Deadline: For sessions scheduled between June 1 and December 31.

    What to expect: If you submit your request by these dates, we'll review it along with others and get back to you within 2-3 weeks after the deadline for a consultation and confirmation.

  2. Rolling Requests: If you miss the priority deadlines, don’t worry! We’ll still review your request on a rolling basis, but it will be subject to space and resource availability.

  3. Planning Ahead: If your session involves new cases or scenario development, we kindly ask for a minimum of 3 months lead time. This gives us enough time to plan, build, and prepare everything to ensure your event is a success.

  4. Special Requests: Need to schedule something outside of our regular business hours (8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday)? Please note that these requests require prior approval and depend on resource availability.

  5. Submitting Your Request:  Email submissions won’t be accepted. We require a request form to keep things organized and ensure we don’t miss any details.

Our Goal: We’re here to support you and make sure your sessions run smoothly. By following these guidelines, we can work together to deliver the best possible outcomes for your learners.

 

What information is requested on the reservation forms?

The form collects information that will help us understand the resource needs of your session. This includes an overview of the session material, space and equipment needs, as well as timing and flexibility with dates for confirmation.

A sample blank form is linked with the request form to help administrators gather the information needed before entering a request form. We recommend using the sample request document to help outline what is needed prior to submitting a request.

How are courses and programs reviewed and prioritized?

To ensure fair and efficient scheduling, requests are reviewed in aggregate according to two key deadlines. We strive to accommodate all session requests, even when multiple requests are made for the same time and space. However, in cases where scheduling conflicts cannot be resolved, the following priority guidelines will be applied:

  1. High-Stakes Assessments for University Students (CHP, COM, CON)
  2. Required University Courses (CHP, COM, CON)
  3. Required GME Activities
  4. All Other University and GME Activities, including grant-sponsored SUNY academic collaborations
  5. Internal Upstate Hospital Sessions
  6. Non-Upstate Events sponsored by an Upstate academic department or group
  7. External Courses

These guidelines help us manage our resources effectively and ensure that essential educational activities receive the priority they need. We appreciate your understanding while we adhere to these established guidelines.

How to Schedule: Ultrasound Model (SP) Requests

US Model Project Request Form

If you are using US task trainers, in addition to needing US models for your session, you only need to complete this form. 

How to Schedule: Manikin and Procedural Requests

MANIKIN AND PROCEDURAL SKILLS PROJECT REQUEST FORM

 

A planning form is provided as a Word document to aid in completing your project request. The live form does use skip logic based on your answers. Our team highly suggests filling out the planning document first, especially if you are completing the online form for a faculty member. Once complete, it is easy to copy and paste the text from your planning form into the online project request form.

Planning Form

How to Schedule: Human Simulation SP Requests

Resources

This section offers a comprehensive collection of resources, including login access to SimCapture, simulation modalities and essential equipment lists. Explore faculty development tools and the suggested readings to enhance your simulation expertise.

Simulation Modalities

What is Simulation?

Simulation is a teaching method, not a technology, that uses various tools to mimic real-life medical scenarios. It allows healthcare providers to practice skills in a controlled and interactive setting, improving critical areas like: 

  • Patient safety
  • Communication skills
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Cultural competence
  • Use of technology and evidence-based practices

Task Trainers

Task Trainers are hands-on models that help you practice specific medical skills, such as drawing blood or managing an airway. These models replicate parts of the human body, breaking down complex tasks into smaller steps, making it easier to practice and improve. 

Key Benefits:

  • Focused Practice: Safely practice specific procedures like placing an NG tube.
  • Safe Learning Environment: Hone your skills without risking harm to patients.
  • Repetition and Confidence: Gain confidence through repeated practice of essential skills.

Task Trainers can be used alone or combined with other tools like Standardized Patients or Manikins for more comprehensive practice.

Manikins

Manikins, or Human Patient Simulators, are advanced models that can mimic medical conditions and physiological responses. These high-tech models can simulate real-life scenarios, including changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and even breathing.

Key Benefits:

  • Lifelike Scenarios: Experience realistic medical situations, from emergencies to complex conditions.
  • Real-time Data: Monitor vital signs and respond to medical data in real time.
  • Safe Training: Practice critical skills and interventions without the risk of harming patients.

Manikins can be used in a variety of settings, including emergency rooms and intensive care units, to teach and assess clinical and team skills.

Standardized/Simulated Patients (SPs)

Standardized patients are trained individuals who simulate the role of real patients. They follow specific scripts and provide consistent medical histories, helping you practice clinical skills and patient communication.

Key Benefits:

  • Realistic Interaction: Practice patient communication and physical exams in a lifelike setting.
  • Constructive Feedback: Receive detailed feedback on your performance from the patient perspective.
  • Scenario Practice: Work through challenging situations like delivering bad news or managing difficult interactions.

Working with SPs prepares you for real-world patient encounters by offering a realistic and controlled learning environment.

Hybrid Simulations

Hybrid simulations combine a Task Trainer with live Standardized Patients or Manikins. This approach allows you to practice specific tasks, such as suturing, while interacting with a patient and addressing their needs.

Simulation Equipment List

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Purchase Request Process and Form

Equipment Purchase Requests for Simulation

Purpose:

The University Simulation Department is committed to advancing health education and patient care. Faculty members who wish to purchase specific simulators or equipment for their educational programs may submit a request for consideration.

Review Process

Given the limited funds available annually for new or replacement equipment, all requests are carefully reviewed by the simulation operations team. The following criteria will guide the review

  • Educational Need: Alignment with defined educational objectives and curriculum requirements.
  • Availability of Resources: Assessment of existing Simulation Department resources that serve a similar function.
  • Projected Utilization: Expected usage, including the number of potential users and relevant features or functions
  • Performance: Evaluation of how well the equipment meets the projected needs.
  • Overall Cost: Consideration of both initial purchase costs and ongoing expenses (e.g., consumable parts, repairs, maintenance).
  • Realism: The simulator’s ability to accurately replicate real-world scenarios.
  • Quality/Durability: How well the equipment withstands usage and training without frequent need for replacement.

Decision Outcomes:

Based on the review and associated costs, the department may:

  • Fully fund the purchase with department resources.
  • Share the cost with the requesting department/program.
  • Defer the purchase due to current budget limitations.
  • Recommend alternative funding sources if applicable.

We are committed to working collaboratively to ensure the best outcomes for all educational programs.

Equipment Purchase Request Form

Best Practices & Suggested Reading

Faculty Development Tools

Case Templates and Development Tools


Case Templates

Assessment Tools

To obtain more genuine and objective feedback, it's beneficial to conduct a program evaluation rather than relying solely on informal feedback during debriefing discussions. Using retrospective or pre/post questionnaires can help assess changes in learner competence (e.g., "Before this course, how often would you use skill X in situation Y?"). Additionally, consider offering learners supplemental materials, such as cognitive aids, worksheets, or handouts, to reinforce the learning objectives in practical application.

Online Scenario Resources

FOAMsim "Free, Open-Access Medical Simulation"

These are just a few of the many webpages available and dedicated to sharing healthcare simulation resources around the world. 

Policies and Procedures

  • Under Development: Policy and Procedure PDF Document
  • Instructor Roles and Responsibilities (PDF) 

Professional Development

Learner Clinical Skills Exam Reminders

Confidentiality

  • All Clinical Skills exams are video recorded on a secure system for educational purposes (self-reflection, faculty feedback, etc.)
  • Learners are prohibited from sharing and discussing the content of the formative and summative standardized patient exams (SPEs) outside of the faculty-led debriefing/feedback sessions that may occur. Downloading or recording of SPE videos, taking pictures of the video and privately or publicly distributing any part of the video is a direct violation and subject to  disciplinary actions.

Attire

  • Please dress professionally as if you are in the clinical setting. A white coat is not required unless told otherwise by your program or course syllabus.
  • Scrubs can be work but must be clean and not wrinkled.
  • Student ID is required and should be visible.
  • Be careful with use of overpowering perfume or cologne.
  • Learners must bring their own equipment (i.e. stethoscope, reflex hammer, etc.) as outlined in the instructions provided by course instructors for each SPE event.

General Information

Banned Items

Unless otherwise instructed, the following items are banned from the (Clinical Skills Center) exam area:

  • Cell phones, smart watches, pagers, purses, backpacks, notes or papers of any kind.
  • Secure lockers storage lockers are available in the Clinical Skills classroom area.

Materials

  • Paper and clipboards will be provided for note-taking during all SPE encounters. Learners are not permitted to remove any SPE exam materials including note paper from the Clinical Skills Center unless instructed otherwise by Simulation Department staff during encounter.
  • Learners must bring their own equipment (i.e. stethoscope, reflex hammer, etc.) as outlined in the instructions provided by course instructors for each SPE event.

PPE & Handwashing

  • Masking is currently optional. Masking protocols may change and will follow Upstate guidelines.
  • You must wash/sanitize hands on entry and exit of room.
    • Hands may be washed with soap and water or use the hand sanitizer next to the sink.
    • If a physical exam is required, hands must be sanitized again prior to start of physical exam.

Door Note and Patient Information:

  • Displayed on the hallway computers.
  • After accepting the honor code, the door note will detail specific tasks and objectives of the clinical encounter. 
  • If there are patient vital signs and details to review prior to the start of the encounter, an EMR tab will appear to review prior to entering the patient room. It will also be available for review on the patient exam room computer.

Encounter Time:

  • The time allotted for interaction in the room with the patient.
  • You will receive a warning prior to the end of the encounter.

Post Encounter Time:

  • The time allotted for post-encounter activity, if included (patient note, oral presentation, verbal patient feedback).

Stop Phrase:

Used to ensure the SPs' safety. SPs are here to help you learn, but we want to make sure they are not harmed in any way.

If needed, the word "Stop" will be used:

  • "Stop, that hurts"
  • "Stop, I'm not comfortable with that."
Used in the rare instance when a learner inadvertently causes true physical pain or attempts to perform a restricted invasive physical examination.

Communication with your patient

These are some items assessed by the patients:
  • Did you greet them appropriately? - Introduce yourself with name and title and address your patient by name
  • Did you build the relationship?- Sit down, good eye contact, pay attention to body language
  • How did you gather information?- Use open ended questions and summarization
  • Don’t stack questions…
  • Did you listen attentively?
  • How did you provide information?
  • Did you support them emotionally?

Physical Exam

If a physical exam is required, the patient will have on a patient gown.

  • All patients will have on shorts and females will additionally have on a bra
  • Do not ask the patients to remove their shorts or bra
  • You may ask the patients to remove their socks if you need to examine their feet

Performing the Exam:

  • Complete all exam maneuvers as taught.
  • Conduct exams directly on the skin, not over the gown (e.g., listen to the heart in all 4 areas or ask the patient to hold their breath when listening to the carotids).
  • Use a sheet to drape the patient appropriately.
  • Ensure patient comfort and extend the leg rest on the table if possible.

Communication:

  • Inform the patient about what you are doing. For example, say, “I’m going to listen to your lungs now; please breathe deeply through your mouth.”
  • After the exam, explain your findings. For example, “Your lungs sound normal to me.”

Exam Scope:

  • Only perform HEENT (Head, Eyes, Ears, and Nose) exam maneuvers as necessary.
  • No genital, pelvic, breast, or rectal exams will be conducted.

Mask Protocol:

  • If your SP is wearing a mask, ask them to lower it to examine areas covered by the mask.

Simcapture Access

Employment Opportunities

Our Simulation Department is growing, check back frequently to see how you can join our dynamic team. If you’re passionate about advancing healthcare education and eager to be part of a forward-thinking team, we encourage you to apply and help us shape the future of healthcare training.

We are currently hiring Simulation Operation Specialists, Standardized Patients, and Work Study Students.

Standardized Patient Application

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Apply Now

Becoming an SP is a unique and rewarding opportunity to contribute to the education of future healthcare professionals. You will play a crucial role in shaping the skills and confidence of medical learners. Whether you're retired, a college student, or looking for meaningful part-time work, this position offers a chance to make a real difference. Join our diverse and supportive community and help improve the future of healthcare

Complete the online form here: https://redcap.link/SP

  1. Once applications have been reviewed, candidates will be invited to participate in an SP Interview Day via email.

Disability Accommodations

If you require accommodation for a disability so that you may participate in the selection process, you are encouraged to contact the Simulation Department offices at 315-464-3848 or by email at [email protected]

What is a Standardized or Simulated Patient?

A Standardized Patient (SP) is an individual trained to portray medical conditions for educational purposes. SPs come from diverse backgrounds and accurately portray patients, including their history, symptoms, and behaviors, in a consistent manner. This role helps medical learners practice patient interactions in a realistic and safe environment.

SPs receive specialized training to memorize patient cases and provide valuable feedback to healthcare learners. They work under faculty guidance to support educational sessions and enhance the learning experience for medical and nursing students.

What skills are important for success as a Standardized Patient?

Expectations:

  • Be comfortable discussing health topics and interacting with healthcare professionals.
  • Agree to be recorded for educational purposes.
  • Treat everyone equally, without bias.
  • Be reliable and on time for scheduled events.
  • Keep all patient case information confidential.
  • Accurately portray the assigned patient case as trained.
  • Remember and document student interactions during the exam.
  • Have good written and verbal communication skills.
  • Be eager to help train future healthcare professionals.

Qualities:

  • No Experience Needed: You don’t need acting or medical experience—just a willingness to learn.
  • Good Memory: Be able to remember details about emotions, behaviors, and symptoms.
  • Interpersonal Skills: Communicate well with people from different backgrounds.
  • Professionalism: Stay respectful, maintain confidentiality, and present yourself appropriately.
  • Adaptability: Be flexible and handle changes easily.
  • Consistency: Stay focused and give the same performance during multiple sessions.
  • Technical Proficiency: Basic computer skills and proficiency with Zoom for remote training and telehealth exercises.

How is this different from acting?

SP work differs from acting because it’s not about dramatic performances or entertaining an audience. Instead, it's about consistently portraying a medical case with discipline and accuracy. SPs must repeat the same behaviors and responses for every student, focusing on realism and educational value rather than creating dramatic moments.

What are the different types of SP roles?

Clinical Encounters

One of the most commonly recognized roles, SPs are trained to portray a real patient who is presenting with a specific history often of a common illness or chronic conditions (e.g. back pain, hypertension). SPs in these roles primarily focus on providing a scripted patient history (e.g. past medical history, social and family history) allowing for learners to practice communication and exam skills. Case scripts are structured to help with realistic role portrayal and involve SPs to be detail-oriented.

Most clinical encounter case-based events involve a physical exam. Examinations are purely for educational purposes. Learners perform a focused physical examination based on the patient's case. These never include sensitive breast, pelvic, or genital exams.

POCUS Encounters

Point-of-Care-Ultrasound (POCUS) is a noninvasive diagnostic procedure. Live scanning models are needed for educational training of image acquisition. SPs dress in the same attire they would for a physical exam encounter. Common areas scanned are neck, chest, upper extremity, back, abdomen, leg, and knee

CBETA Encounters

Female standardized patients who are specifically trained to be clinical breast exam training assistant (CBETA). CBETAs are paid a higher rate of pay. CBETA’s are used in medical education to help train healthcare professionals in conducting clinical breast exams. The primary role of a CBETA is to enhance the learning experience and proficiency of medical students, residents, and practicing clinicians in performing thorough and accurate breast exams.  CBETAs can provide real-time feedback to the trainee about their technique, communication, and thoroughness. These exams are always done with a trained faculty preceptor in the room with the learner and CBETA. If you are interested in training or knowing more let a Simulation staff member know.

Is this safe, I thought healthcare students learned with actual patients?

Yes, SP work is safe. The exams are basic and not harmful, and interactions are closely monitored for the safety and comfort of the SP.

While students do work with real patients, SPs provide a safe, controlled environment to practice and prepare. This allows each student to experience the same situation, ensuring a fair learning and testing experience.

Do I need to remove my clothing? What would be involved in a physical examination?

Many of our clinical encounters require a physical exam component. For encounters that require no physical exam, SPs wear street clothes.

During physical exam encounters, SPs change into a hospital gown but always wear undergarments. Female SPs wear jogging shorts and a bra or sports bra, and male SPs wear jogging shorts under the gown. Exams are basic, such as listening to your heart and lungs with a stethoscope, looking into your eyes, ears, and throat, checking your reflexes, or pressing on your abdomen to check for tenderness. No blood samples or drugs are involved.

What are the hours and pay?

Standardized Patients are paid an hourly rate for their services. This is a part-time, per diem position without guaranteed hours. SPs are hired as temporary workers for specific projects.

You will be scheduled according to the needs of the curriculum project and the case being portrayed. We match patient cases with SPs using such criteria as age, gender, etc. Weekday availability between the hours of 7:30 am and 5:30 pm is required. Projects are always booked for a minimum of 2 hours.

If we do not have a suitable opportunity right away, we will keep your information on file for the future and will contact you if there is an opening for a case matching your profile. Initially, you might work only a few hours during the course of a month or none at all.

Why does the application ask about my health history?

We ask about your health history during onboarding because it helps us ensure you can safely and accurately portray the cases assigned to you. For example, if you have a condition that affects sensation in your feet, it might not be suitable for you to play a role that requires normal sensation. However, minor things like surgical scars can usually be worked around if we know in advance. Sharing your health history allows us to make any necessary adjustments and provide the best experience for both you and the learners.

Simulation Operations Specialist Application

Federal Work Study Application

Marketing, Media, & Industry Requests

Whether you're an internal team member looking to refresh your website with updated photos, or an external client seeking the perfect space for film projects or industry collaborations, we're here to help!

MARKETING, MEDIA, & INDUSTRY REQUEST FORM

Why Choose Us?

Our department offers a variety of rooms that provide the perfect backdrop for all your filming and photographic needs. From medical scenes to product testing, we've got you covered.

Film Production

Our fully-equipped patient suites are designed to create the ideal setting for any medical scene. With a comprehensive range of medical equipment at your disposal, you can bring your vision to life with authenticity and precision.

Industry Collaborations

Our spaces are not just for filming—they're perfect for conducting human factors studies, usability assessments, and product testing. Whether you’re generating data to move devices from concept to real-world application or ensuring safety and usability through process studies, our facilities offer a real-world environment to support your needs.

Giving: Support Our Mission

By donating to our Simulation Department, you are directly contributing to the advancement of healthcare education and the betterment of patient care. Together, we can create a safer, more effective healthcare system for everyone.

Through your generous contributions, you are empowering our daily efforts in several critical areas:

Reducing Medical Errors: By evaluating the detection and facilitating the reduction of medical errors, we ensure that every medical learner and healthcare professional is better prepared before their contact time with patients in real-world settings.

Improving Communication: Enhancing interpersonal communication among healthcare professionals is crucial for improving care outcomes, and your support helps us make significant strides in this area.

Community Engagement: We enlist members of the public from our local communities and guide them through a structured simulated patient training program, transforming each member into a valuable first-person simulated patient for our healthcare learners.

Simulation Department on Instagram

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