bsc (honours) natural sciences - the open · pdf filemedical science and empire of the...

GLOBAL STUDY GLOBALRECOGNITION

BSc (Honours) Natural Sciences

Distance learning degree qualification

QUALIFICATION LEAFLET

Whether you are keen to study a specific area of science or are not yet sure where your interest lies in – say – physics or biology, then this degree is for you. It starts with a wide-ranging introduction to highly topical areas of modern science, and then offers the chance to specialise as you develop your interests. Pathways include biological and health sciences; chemistry and analytical sciences; Earth sciences; environmental science; physics; and astronomy and planetary science. Flexible, accessible study arrangements mean you can do all the practical work near where you live, or online in your own home – or taking part in laboratory and field work at specific locations may be an option for some pathways.

Career relevance and employabilityBy the time you achieve your qualification, you’ll be an adaptable graduate with a range of transferable skills that are highly valued in the labour market – such as analytical, numerical and communication skills, teamworking, problem solving and proficiency in using computers. You’ll also have a good understanding of where your strengths and interests lie, and be well prepared for your next step – whether it’s further study or employment.Science graduates are well placed to enter both scientific and non-scientific jobs. The logical, reasoned approach needed for science study is relevant to a wide range of financial, business and public sector employment, so science graduates – particularly those who have good

communication and interpersonal skills – are in demand. Employers also look for evidence of experience of the workplace to support the skills gained through the degree. To succeed, graduates will need to be flexible and multi-skilled, with the ability to work in a multidisciplinary environment.

Entry requirements There are no formal entry requirements to study this degree, although you will need to have a proficiency in English as all course material, exams and tutor support is in English.

Credit for previous study elsewhereIf you have already completed some successful study at higher education level at another institution you may be able to transfer credit for this study and count it towards an Open University qualification. If you wish to apply to transfer credit you must do so as soon as possible, and before you register for your chosen qualification. If you are awarded credit for study completed elsewhere, you may find that you need to study fewer OU modules to complete your qualification with us.

Course durationTypically it takes six years part-time study to complete this qualification, but you can take anything from three (full-time study equivalent) to 16 years.

BSc (Honours) Natural Sciences (Q64) 2

Qualification detailsWe live in a society that depends on science, but how many of us really understand the science behind the important issues that feature in the news?

1 QUALIFICATION LEAFLET

For more information and to register go to www.openuniversity.edu, or call +44 845 241 6555

Modules and pathwaysAs part of your registration you can choose a pathway. Pathways are different sets of module options, allowing you to specialise in certain subjects to complete your degree.Pathways available for this qualification are shown below:

Broad based natural sciences pathway


To complete your degree you need to achieve 360 credits; 120 credits at Stage 1, 120 at Stage 2, and 120 at Stage 3; with each module being 30-60 credits. Modules can be compulsory, in which case you must study them, or optional, in which case you can select the ones you prefer to study. To see full details of how you can choose from the modules listed overleaf please visit our website, www.openuniversity.edu

Biology pathway

Chemisty pathway

Earth sciences pathway

Environmental sciences pathway

www.OpenUniversity.edu


For a full list of modules available, please refer to our website, www.openuniversity.edu. Modules studied depend on the pathway chosen.

Assessment keyEMA = End-of-module assessment iCMA = Interactive computer marked assessmentTMA = Tutor-marked assignment

Stage 1

Exploring science (S104)

Credits: 60 at Level 1

Assessment: 6 TMAs, 7 iCMAs, 1 Examination

This key introductory Level 1 course is an ideal starting point for studying the natural sciences – astronomy and planetary science; biology; chemistry, earth and environmental science; and physics. Using a blend of text and online study materials, this wide-ranging course investigates the major scientific issues affecting human society in the twenty-first century. You will explore the fundamentals of modern science and develop important scientific concepts and skills to give you a solid foundation for studying science at a higher level.

Investigative and mathematical skills in science (S141)


Assessment: 3 TMAs, 1 iCMA, 1 EMA

Designed to follow our key introductory course in science – Exploring science (S104) – this course focuses on developing your experimental, investigative and mathematical skills. You’ll gain confidence in using mathematics as a scientific tool by working through questions in a study book with worked examples. You’ll investigate weather patterns and events around the world, and develop your observational skills by studying your local weather to make your own short-term forecast.

Introducing health sciences: a case study approach (SDK125)



This introductory Level 1 course explores the scientific

and social aspects of disease and disability in a global context through seven case studies: water and health in an overcrowded world; pain; alcohol; screening for breast cancer; chronic lung disease; trauma and accidents; and visual impairment. Each case study integrates the biological, chemical, and physical sciences with psychology, health statistics, and social studies to illuminate underlying causes and personal and societal consequences.

Topics in science (S142)


Assessment: 3 TMAs, 1 EMA

In this course you will study three exciting topics in contemporary science which will provide you with a broad understanding of Level 1 science. These topics include Human genetics and health issues, which deals with our genes – an area at the forefront of medical science and Empire of the microbes, which explores the intriguing world of bacteria, viruses, yeast and other microscopic organisms. To allow some specialisation between studying health sciences or environmental sciences you will have a choice between Molecules, medicines and drugs, which explores drug development, infection and disease and The frozen planet, which explains the science behind the polar regions.

Topics in health science (SK143)


Assessment: 10 iCMAs, 1 EMA

This course gives an overview of two medical conditions that present a major global health problem; cardiovascular disease and cancer. Your study of cardiovascular diseases will develop your understanding of heart and circulatory diseases, and the anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular system. Cancers result from defects in cell proliferation, so you’ll study the properties of cells, how they divide and how tumours are formed and spread. Both topics consider risk factors and methods of detection, treatment and prevention worldwide.

Using mathematics (MST121)


Assessment: 5 TMAs, 1 CMA, 1 Examination

This broad, enjoyable introduction to university-level mathematics assumes some prior knowledge, as described on our MathsChoices website. The course shows how mathematics can be applied to answer some key questions from science, technology, and everyday life. You will study a range of fundamental techniques, including calculus, recurrence relations, matrices and vectors and statistics, and use integrated specialist mathematical software to solve problems.

Modules


Stage 2

Human biology (SK277)


Assessment: 3 TMAs, 1 Examination

This course presents human biology in a way that connects it directly with health and disease. It starts with the concept of a healthy body and explores the mechanisms that enable it to maintain its integrity. Although you’ll deal with the physiology of each body system separately, the overall emphasis is on interaction and coordination. You’ll acquire sufficient background to appreciate how systems can fail and which medical interventions can be successful.

Cell biology (S294)



Cell biology explores the fascinating and diverse world of cells, from single-celled micro-organisms to the specialised cells that form complex tissues in plants and animals. It develops the key aspects of cell and molecular biology introduced in Exploring science (S104) and Introducing health sciences: a case study approach (SDK125). The origins of cells and the generation of cell diversity, as well as the common features of cellular structure and function – how they obtain energy, synthesise new molecules, communicate, proliferate and survive – are explored.

The science of the mind: investigating mental health (SDK228)



To what extent can we understand mental wellbeing and treat mental health conditions such as depression and dementia by focusing on the brain and its functioning? This course presents and challenges the medical model of mental health with its reliance on drug treatment, contrasting it with ideas in the field of health psychology. You will learn from case reports of those who have a mental health condition and those who care for them, as well as from relevant research studies. The course has an emphasis on understanding different approaches within psychology, as well as the nature of evidence for and against these approaches.

Analytical science: health, heritage and environments (S240)



Have you ever wondered … How are sport drug cheats caught? How many calories are there in a burger? How do pregnancy testing kits work? How old is the Earth? How do

X-rays work? How are antiquities dated? How do we know our water is safe to drink? How are diseases diagnosed? This course explains how analytical scientists know the answers to these and other fascinating questions, and introduces the major concepts in analytical science. Using examples from medicine, science and the arts you will learn about the major biological, chemical and physical techniques employed in improving the quality of our lives.

Science in context (S250)



This course covers a range of interesting, contemporary issues with a scientific dimension: BSE/vCJD; near-Earth objects; water and wellbeing; climate change; genetic manipulation and nanotechnology. It deals with the underlying science and its ‘real world’ relevance. The topics are analysed in terms of four themes: communication; risk; ethical issues; and decision-making. You are assumed to have studied a range of scientific disciplines at Level 1 and to have an interest in science in its broad social context.

Practical science: biology and health (SXHL288)


Assessment: 5 TMAs, 4 iCMAs, 1 EMA

The activities in this practical science course explore a range of topics in biology and health science, from fundamental human and animal behaviour to the vital themes of biochemistry and water quality. Online – from the comfort of your own home – you’ll conduct observations in various laboratories, in combinations of observation and experiment.

The molecular world (S205)



Chemistry is of enormous importance in everyday life: almost everything we are, see, make and eat is composed of molecules. This course offers a wide-ranging introduction to chemistry and its applications, integrating the three main branches of chemistry: organic, inorganic, and physical. It covers the reactions of metals; the solid state; molecular shapes; thermodynamics; kinetics; the synthesis of organic compounds; spectroscopic methods of determining structure; bonding theory; periodic trends and non-metals.

Practical science: chemistry and analysis (SXC288)



The activities in this practical science course explore


For more information and to register go to www.openuniversity.edu, or call +44 845 241 6555For more information and to register go to www.openuniversity.edu, or call +44 845 241 6555





You’ll use web-based resources and electronic conferencing extensively. Although the course is intended for a wide range of people, a background in science is required.

Practical environmental science (SXE288)



Practical environmental science explores the natural world through activities ranging from the use of satellite data for mapping land cover change to exploring the hydrology of a limestone pavement.

Environmental science (S216)



This broad course draws together biology, chemistry, Earth science and physics. You will develop a holistic approach encompassing the processes, links, interactions and feedback mechanisms that operate within different environments. Two multimedia interactive field trips feature in the course, in which you explore an area visually, observe habitats, gather data and analyse your observations. By the end of the course you will be able to ‘lead’ a group of students through a new virtual environment; make critical analyses of landforms, soils and water flows; identify habitats of flora and fauna; and comment on anthropogenic influences and their likely consequences.

Practical science: Earth and environment (SXG288)



The activities in this practical science course offer a choice of topics about the Earth and environments. Some, such as the investigation of the quality of water resources, examination of meteorites and the use of satellite data to investigate the environmental geology of Cyprus can be done from the comfort of your own home. The course ends with an exciting team project, where you will work with students from other courses in this Practical science series.

Stage 3

Molecular and cell biology (S377)



Cells are the basic units of life. Cell biology seeks to understand not just the processes that are common to all life forms, but also the ways in which cells control their division and differentiate to form specialised tissues. This



a range of topics in chemistry and analytical science from fundamental synthesis and analysis to the vital themes of water and biochemistry. It will give you the opportunity to use a range of laboratory equipment, much of it via the internet from the comfort of your own home, in various combinations of observation and experiment.

Geology (S276)


Assessment: 3 TMAs, 2 CMAs, 1 Examination

Geology is the scientific study of the Earth, its origin, structure, processes and composition. This wide-ranging course introduces the fundamentals of geology in an exciting way, as well as the practical skills needed to understand and interpret geological features and processes. It covers five main areas: description and identification of minerals and rocks; interpretation of geological maps; the formation of igneous and metamorphic rocks and their associated structures; fossils; and sedimentary processes and environments. In addition to course texts, you’ll receive a returnable home kit (with maps, rocks, minerals and fossils) and teaching materials on DVD (including a new digital kit and virtual microscope).

Our dynamic planet: Earth and life (S279)



The Earth appears constant and unchanging from a human perspective. Yet over the span of geological time, measured in billions of years, it is a dynamic system in which continents move slowly across its surface; mountain belts rise and fall; ocean basins are created and destroyed; the evolution of life itself occurs and all in concert to the pulse of the Earth’s internal energy: heat. But how did all this start? What are the Earth's origins and how does life form part of its pattern? This course tackles these fascinating questions and equips you with the intellectual tools to examine the evidence that is all around us.

Planetary science and the search for life (S283)



This course tackles fundamental questions about our Solar System. How did it form and how has it evolved? Why aren’t all the planets like Earth? How and why did life arise on Earth? Has life arisen elsewhere in the Solar System or beyond, and could it be intelligent? You’ll look at the exploration of the Solar System by spacecraft; planetary processes such as volcanism and impacts; the structure of planets and their atmospheres; and asteroids, comets and meteorites.

course builds from a foundation of molecular biology, with emphasis on animal cell biology. It explores how cells function and considers processes such as cell differentiation, ageing and tumorigenesis. It also develops skills in reading and understanding scientific literature and the handling of experimental data.

Signals and perception: the science of the senses (SD329)



This sensory neuroscience course uses fundamental concepts from biology, chemistry, physics and psychology to explain how we interact with our environment through the senses and is therefore an opportunity for you to study an interdisciplinary topic. For each of the senses, you’ll investigate how sensation begins with a stimulus that is converted into an electrical impulse; how that is transmitted to the brain; and how the brain combines these messages – to arrive at a ‘perception of the stimulus’.

Infectious disease and public health (SK320)



Infectious disease affects all our lives to varying degrees, often making front-page news: ‘New resistant strain of TB’, ‘Will bird flu cross over to humans?’ ‘Hospital infections reach epidemic proportions’, etc. This course approaches infectious disease from several perspectives – exploring the underlying biology, epidemiology, ecology and evolution of pathogens in relation to the extraordinary immune defences of their human hosts. You will learn how infections are diagnosed, how to study changes in the incidence of diseases and investigate strategies for treatment and control through detailed case studies.

Evolution (S366)



This wide-ranging course explains the key concepts of evolutionary science and investigates how these account for the characteristics of living organisms and the history of life on Earth. Using information from the living world and from fossil records, you'll learn how natural selection and other evolutionary processes produce changes in genes and populations over different timescales; how new species originate; and how large-scale evolutionary patterns are generated.

Researching biology and health sciences (SXL390)


Assessment: To be confirmed

In this project course you will undertake investigations

within a range of defined topics: stem cells, emerging infectious disease, the human senses and coevolution.

Chemical change and environmental applications (S345)


Assessment: 3 TMAs, 1 iCMA, 1 Examination

This course deals with ‘chemical change’ – on the molecular scale, in the laboratory, in industry, in a car exhaust – or in a complex natural system like the atmosphere. Its underlying aim is to develop an understanding of the factors that guide and control a chemical reaction. The subtle interplay between different aspects of chemical reactivity, and their practical consequences, is especially important in current environmental issues; for example, those relating to industrial chemical production, pollution and energy generation. Apart from the basic cornerstones of thermodynamics and chemical kinetics, topics related to industrial and environmental catalysis, chemical reaction mechanisms and aqueous solution chemistry are covered.

Drug, design and synthesis (S346)



This course presents the strategy underpinning the design and synthesis of pharmaceutical molecules used to diagnose and treat diseases and illnesses. It focuses on the design of drug molecules, with emphasis on the shape and structure using molecular modelling software. Enzyme and receptor protein targets are examined, together with the mechanisms by which the drugs work. The course explores the array of chemical reactions and strategies for the synthesis of a range of drugs. Case studies including anti-cholesterol and antibiotic drugs illustrate the importance of these strategies in the development of modern medicines.

Metals and life (S347)



Metals play a vital role in the metabolism of plants and animals and, increasingly, in medicine. This course examines the chemistry of the transition metals and outlines the key role they play in living systems, for example in respiration and photosynthesis. It considers how organisms acquire metals, their transport and storage, illustrated by the particular example of iron in the human body. The significant impact of metals in medicine will also be investigated, looking at their role in diagnostic imaging and therapy, as well as the effects of too much metal (metal toxicity) and of metal deficiency.





Oceanography (S330)



Oceans cover seventy percent of the Earth’s surface, regulating our climate and maintaining our atmosphere. They also contain virtually all the known chemical elements. This course deals with their physics, chemistry and biology, as well as the structure of the basins that contain them – covering topics like underwater volcanoes; the greenhouse effect; eddy systems; the El Niño phenomenon and its link to droughts and floods; and the global view of ocean properties that satellite technology can provide.

Science project course: frontiers in chemistry (SXM390)


You’ll undertake individual investigations within a range of defined topics: combinatorial chemistry, fuel cells, nanotechnology, biopolymers, porous materials or transactinides, metals in medicine and drug design and synthesis.

The geological record of environmental change (S369)



This course explores how we can track environmental change through the geological record. It begins with the sedimentary sequences produced by changes in relative sea level, and the likely role of climatic and tectonic processes in producing these changes. You’ll also examine the greenhouse world of the Cretaceous and its tropical/subtropical marine environments; high latitude terrestrial environments; the effect on the environment of large igneous provinces and meteorite impacts; and the mass extinction event at the end of the period.

Understanding the continents (S339)



This wide-ranging course develops your knowledge of the continents: its theme is crustal evolution in contrasting environments. It revises and extends your knowledge of plate-tectonic processes and looks at the East African rift system and Iceland as examples of extensional regimes. You will study subduction zone processes; consider the Tibetan mountain range; examine the Himalaya and the Scottish Highlands as examples of collisional processes; and analyse the tectonic and magmatic framework of Britain. This course is intended for those with an understanding of the essentials of igneous and metamorphic rock-formation processes, plate-tectonic theory and structural processes.

Science project course: geosciences (SXG390)


This course is the project module for the BSc (Hons) Natural Sciences. You will undertake individual investigations within a range of defined topics: natural hazards (atmospheric and hydrologic hazards; earthquakes; landslides; meteorite impacts; volcanoes; and tsunami) or past environmental change. You’ll need access to scientific literature, probably from electronic library sources. The study materials provide a guide to planning and conducting project work; help with searching and using the literature; and writing a report, but ultimately this is a chance for you to plan and execute a piece of work for yourself.

Ecosystems (S396)



This course considers the interactions between organisms and their environment that together form an



ecosystem – which can range from a simple microbial community to the biodiverse rainforests of the tropics. Even the Earth as a whole may be considered an ecosystem. You’ll develop your understanding of the terrestrial environment as a habitat for a vast array of different organisms; the connections between them and their surroundings; and their resilience to anthropogenic changes – such as pollution and climate change. You’ll also gain practical experience in ecosystem science – making observations in your locality, and through extensive use of models to investigate processes essential to supporting life on Earth.

The environmental web (U316)



This interdisciplinary course examines contemporary issues such as biodiversity and climate change in order to develop your environmental literacy, and enable you to take part in informed debate and action. It draws on a wide variety of disciplines to investigate environmental changes, their consequences, and implications for action. You will explore environmental materials on the web used to publish data, implement policy, debate issues, and promulgate views – learning how to navigate, analyse and evaluate such information.

Science project course: environmental science practical project (SXE390)


This course is the project module for the BSc (Hons) Environmental Science. You will undertake an independent practical investigation of a topic within the area of Environmental Science. You will design your investigation, collect data (this may be in the field, in a laboratory or at home), analyse it and produce a scientific report. The study materials provide a guide to planning and conducting project work; help with searching and using the literature; and writing a report, but ultimately this is a chance for you to plan and execute a piece of work for yourself.





Can I study in any country?This course is available in most countries worldwide. Please use the Course Finder menu at www.openuniversity.edu to see what courses are available in your country.

Is an OU qualification recognised in my country?An OU degree is equal in academic standard to a degree from any other British university. The University is subject to the same quality assurance procedures, through the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA), as all other British universities, and uses external assessors and examiners to ensure comparability of standard and level in its courses.A leaflet is available on how you can apply for formal recognition in your country. To download the leaflet, please go to www.openuniversity.edu/brochures/recognition.pdf.

What tutor support will I receive?The OU excels in its unrivalled support for students. You’ll have email and online support from a tutor and you will be able to discuss your study in online tutor group discussions, using our customised learning environment. Our community websites Platform and OpenLearn offer a different perspective on your subject, and a huge range of OU resources on YouTube and iTunes U can expand your understanding. In addition, you can tap into a range of enthusiastic and welcoming OU social network groups on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

Are there any entry requirements?For most undergraduate qualifications you don’t need any formal qualifications, or to pass an entry test to study with us. Our undergraduate qualifications are open to all because we believe anyone who is keen to succeed should have the opportunity to study.As part of the registration process, however, you will be asked to confirm your proficiency in English. (If you are unsure, you can take a short online test, which you will find when completing the online registration form.)

Can I count previous study towards an OU qualification?Any higher-education level studies you’ve successfully completed elsewhere may count towards your OU degree or other qualification. We enable you to do this by awarding you a certain amount of ‘transferred credit’. By transferring credit gained from previous study, you can reduce the amount you need from OU study to achieve your qualification. For more information please go to www.openuniversity.edu.

How do you work towards a qualification? We measure the size of our qualifications in credits – an honours degree is 360 credits, made up of three 120-credit stages.Each stage is made up of a number of modules which cover different parts of the subject. Modules are also measured in credits and are set at different ‘levels’. Levels give an indication of a module’s relative complexity and/or depth of learning. Most modules are worth either 30 or 60 credits and are set at Levels 1, 2 and 3, which roughly equates to studying in the first, second and third year at a campus-based university. So for a typical three-stage honours degree you would study: 120 credits at Stage 1, taking modules worth 30 or 60

credits at Level 1 120 credits at Stage 2, taking modules worth 30 or 60

credits at Level 2 120 credits at Stage 3, taking modules worth 30 or 60

credits at Level 3. In the example given above, each stage could consist of two 60-credit modules or one 60-credit module and two 30-credit modules, or four 30-credit modules.

How long does it take? Our qualifications are designed to be flexible. So if you want to vary the amount of time you spend studying, you can. The table below is a guide on the time required, but call us today to discuss how you can vary the study intensity and therefore the time taken to complete your course.

Undergraduate qualifications

Credits required

Time required to complete1

Certificate of higher education (Cert HE)

120 1 years full-time study or 2 years part-time study

Diploma of higher education (Dip HE)


BSc degree with honours


How much will it cost?If you are studying with us for the first time our standard fee for 2012/2013 is £5,000– based on 120 credits of study – which is equivalent to a year’s full-time study at a campus-based university. Of course you don’t have to study 120 credits a year and the price you pay will be proportionate to the standard fee. So, for example, if you

FAQs



only study 60 credits a year, you will pay 50 per cent of the standard fee.

Credit studied each year1

Percentage of standard fee

Cost per year

Time taken to complete a 360-credit honours degree

120 credits a year

100% £5,000 3 years full-time study

60 credits a year

50% £2,500 6 years part-time study

1For illustrative purposes only – in most cases you can vary the number of credits taken per year and therefore the time taken to complete the course. Please note: prices are approximate and subject to change. Visit our website or call us for latest details.

When can I start?To give you more opportunities to start, most qualifications have two intakes a year – October and February. To start in October 2013, for example, you need to register no later than 10th September 2013.

What payment options are there?Your payment options include spreading the cost over monthly instalments with our own affordable student budget account, OUSBA (for certain EU countries). For more information please go to www.open.ac.uk/ousba.

Can I meet and network with other students?Definitely – when you start with the OU you automatically become a member of the Open University Student Association (OUSA). OUSA also runs a popular student forum site. For more information, go to www.ousa.org.uk. Once you have gained your qualification, you can join the OU Alumni Association, our vibrant and active alumni community with 280,000 members worldwide. You will enjoy many membership benefits, including regular newsletters, good networking opportunities and access to the alumni website.

How is my privacy protected?We record your personal information when you contact us and use this to manage registration, study, examination and other services. When you register, we’ll tell you more about how we process and use your personal information.

When should I apply?Apply as early as you can – particularly if you wish to claim for credit for previous study. Registration open dates are shown in the Courses section at www.openuniversity.edu.


I always wondered what it took to achieve a degree - and now I

am starting to find out. It's a really exciting adventure. Sharon Dee, Open University student




Go to www.openuniversity.edu, select the Courses section and the degree you require. You will then be asked to select a pathway to register. (Pathways are different selections of course modules to complete your degree.)

Alternatively call us on +44 845 241 6555.

Don’t worry, you don’t need to pay anything at this Level.

As soon as you have registered you’ll get an email confirmation which contains your login details.

What do I need to do next?

It takes just 2 simple steps.Begin the process to secure your place. Here's how easy it is.

Before you start studying you will need to choose and register on your first modules and arrange payment; instructions for this will be emailed to you. Once complete you will officially be an Open University student – welcome!


2. Choose your first module, make payment to enrol

1. Register now




The Open University is incorporated by Royal Charter (RC 000391), an exempt charity in England and Wales and a charity registered in Scotland (SC 038302).While we have done everything possible to make sure the information in this publication is accurate, it may change due to regulations or policy, or because of financial or other reasons.

Copyright © 2013 The Open University.

All details shown in this leaflet are correct as at February 2013, but are subject to change. Please call +44 845 241 6555 for the latest details.

bsc (honours) natural sciences - the open · pdf filemedical science and empire of the...

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