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Fedorowski A, Fanciulli A, Raj SR, Sheldon R, Shibao CA, Sutton R. Cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction in post-COVID-19 syndrome: a major health-care burden. Nat Rev Cardiol 2024; 21:379-395. [PMID: 38163814 DOI: 10.1038/s41569-023-00962-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction (CVAD) is a malfunction of the cardiovascular system caused by deranged autonomic control of circulatory homeostasis. CVAD is an important component of post-COVID-19 syndrome, also termed long COVID, and might affect one-third of highly symptomatic patients with COVID-19. The effects of CVAD can be seen at both the whole-body level, with impairment of heart rate and blood pressure control, and in specific body regions, typically manifesting as microvascular dysfunction. Many severely affected patients with long COVID meet the diagnostic criteria for two common presentations of CVAD: postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome and inappropriate sinus tachycardia. CVAD can also manifest as disorders associated with hypotension, such as orthostatic or postprandial hypotension, and recurrent reflex syncope. Advances in research, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, have identified new potential pathophysiological mechanisms, diagnostic methods and therapeutic targets in CVAD. For clinicians who daily see patients with CVAD, knowledge of its symptomatology, detection and appropriate management is more important than ever. In this Review, we define CVAD and its major forms that are encountered in post-COVID-19 syndrome, describe possible CVAD aetiologies, and discuss how CVAD, as a component of post-COVID-19 syndrome, can be diagnosed and managed. Moreover, we outline directions for future research to discover more efficient ways to cope with this prevalent and long-lasting condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artur Fedorowski
- Department of Cardiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden.
| | | | - Satish R Raj
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Autonomic Dysfunction Center, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Robert Sheldon
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Cyndya A Shibao
- Autonomic Dysfunction Center, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Richard Sutton
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
- Department of Cardiology, Hammersmith Hospital, National Heart & Lung Institute, Imperial College, London, UK
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Hira R, Karalasingham K, Baker JR, Raj SR. Autonomic Manifestations of Long-COVID Syndrome. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2023; 23:881-892. [PMID: 37947962 DOI: 10.1007/s11910-023-01320-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Long-COVID is a novel condition emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic. Long-COVID is characterized by symptoms commonly seen in autonomic disorders including fatigue, brain fog, light-headedness, and palpitations. This article will critically evaluate recent findings and studies on Long-COVID and its physiological autonomic manifestations. RECENT FINDINGS Studies have reported on the prevalence of different symptoms and autonomic disorders in Long-COVID cohorts. Autonomic nervous system function, including both the parasympathetic and sympathetic limbs, has been studied using different testing techniques in Long-COVID patients. While numerous mechanisms may contribute to Long-COVID autonomic pathophysiology, it is currently unclear which ones lead to a Long-COVID presentation. To date, studies have not tested treatment options for autonomic disorders in Long-COVID patients. Long-COVID is associated with autonomic abnormalities. There is a high prevalence of clinical autonomic disorders among Long-COVID patients, with limited knowledge of the underlying mechanisms and the effectiveness of treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashmin Hira
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Kavithra Karalasingham
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jacquie R Baker
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Satish R Raj
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
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Pearce G, Holliday N, Sandhu H, Eftekhari H, Bruce J, Timms E, Ablett L, Kavi L, Simmonds J, Evans R, Magee P, Powell R, Keogh S, McGregor G. Co-creation of a complex, multicomponent rehabilitation intervention and feasibility trial protocol for the PostUraL tachycardia Syndrome Exercise (PULSE) study. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2023; 9:143. [PMID: 37582801 PMCID: PMC10426060 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-023-01365-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a dearth of research to support the treatment of people with postural tachycardia syndrome (PoTS). Despite expert consensus suggesting exercise is recommended for this patient group, there are no randomised control trials examining this rigorously. The aim was to co-create a feasibility trial protocol and a rehabilitation intervention for people living with PoTS. METHODS The intervention and feasibility trial design were co-created as part of the PostUraL tachycardia Syndrome Exercise (PULSE) study. We used the 'three co's framework' of co-define, co-design and co-refine. Recruitment included key national charities and National Health Service Trusts treating people living with PoTS in the UK. Eighteen patient and public involvement members attended the co-define session, and 16 co-creators with a mix of expertise attended the subsequent co-design and co-refine sessions. Seven intervention practitioners were trained in the rehabilitation intervention, providing feedback for further co-refinement. RESULTS The final co-created intervention comprises online physical activity, and lifestyle and behaviour change support sessions. It is based on functional movement activities using a patient-centred approach tailored to individual needs. Physical activity intensity is guided by individuals' perception of effort rather than by objective measures. Recumbent bikes are provided for home use. Patients deemed randomisation to be acceptable because research in this area was considered important. CONCLUSIONS An innovative approach was used to co-create the PULSE intervention and feasibility trial protocol to meet the evidence-based and logistical needs of people living with PoTS, clinicians, service deliverers, third-sector organisations, academics and funders. This can be used as a successful example and template for future research internationally. People living with PoTS were recognised as experts and involved in every aspect of conceptualisation, design and refinement. This complex rehabilitation intervention is currently being tested in a randomised feasibility trial comparing the PULSE intervention with best-practice usual care for people living with PoTS. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN45323485 was registered on April 7, 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Helen Eftekhari
- University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
| | - Julie Bruce
- University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
| | - Emma Timms
- Patient and Public Involvement, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
- Oxford University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Laura Ablett
- Patient and Public Involvement, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
| | | | | | - Rebecca Evans
- University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
| | | | - Richard Powell
- Coventry University, Coventry, UK
- University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
| | | | - Gordon McGregor
- Coventry University, Coventry, UK
- University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
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Mayuga KA, Fedorowski A, Ricci F, Gopinathannair R, Dukes JW, Gibbons C, Hanna P, Sorajja D, Chung M, Benditt D, Sheldon R, Ayache MB, AbouAssi H, Shivkumar K, Grubb BP, Hamdan MH, Stavrakis S, Singh T, Goldberger JJ, Muldowney JAS, Belham M, Kem DC, Akin C, Bruce BK, Zahka NE, Fu Q, Van Iterson EH, Raj SR, Fouad-Tarazi F, Goldstein DS, Stewart J, Olshansky B. Sinus Tachycardia: a Multidisciplinary Expert Focused Review. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2022; 15:e007960. [PMID: 36074973 PMCID: PMC9523592 DOI: 10.1161/circep.121.007960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Sinus tachycardia (ST) is ubiquitous, but its presence outside of normal physiological triggers in otherwise healthy individuals remains a commonly encountered phenomenon in medical practice. In many cases, ST can be readily explained by a current medical condition that precipitates an increase in the sinus rate, but ST at rest without physiological triggers may also represent a spectrum of normal. In other cases, ST may not have an easily explainable cause but may represent serious underlying pathology and can be associated with intolerable symptoms. The classification of ST, consideration of possible etiologies, as well as the decisions of when and how to intervene can be difficult. ST can be classified as secondary to a specific, usually treatable, medical condition (eg, pulmonary embolism, anemia, infection, or hyperthyroidism) or be related to several incompletely defined conditions (eg, inappropriate ST, postural tachycardia syndrome, mast cell disorder, or post-COVID syndrome). While cardiologists and cardiac electrophysiologists often evaluate patients with symptoms associated with persistent or paroxysmal ST, an optimal approach remains uncertain. Due to the many possible conditions associated with ST, and an overlap in medical specialists who see these patients, the inclusion of experts in different fields is essential for a more comprehensive understanding. This article is unique in that it was composed by international experts in Neurology, Psychology, Autonomic Medicine, Allergy and Immunology, Exercise Physiology, Pulmonology and Critical Care Medicine, Endocrinology, Cardiology, and Cardiac Electrophysiology in the hope that it will facilitate a more complete understanding and thereby result in the better care of patients with ST.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth A. Mayuga
- Section of Cardiac Electrophysiology and Pacing, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
| | - Artur Fedorowski
- Karolinska Institutet & Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Fabrizio Ricci
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, “G.d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti Scalo, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Mina Chung
- Section of Cardiac Electrophysiology and Pacing, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Phoenix, AZ
| | - David Benditt
- University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN
| | | | - Mirna B. Ayache
- MetroHealth Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH
| | - Hiba AbouAssi
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Nutrition, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
| | | | | | | | | | - Tamanna Singh
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, OH
| | | | - James A. S. Muldowney
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center &Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville Campus, Department of Veterans Affairs, Nashville, TN
| | - Mark Belham
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS FT, Cambridge, UK
| | - David C. Kem
- University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK
| | - Cem Akin
- University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | | | - Nicole E. Zahka
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Qi Fu
- Institute for Exercise and Environmental Medicine at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas & University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Erik H. Van Iterson
- Section of Preventive Cardiology & Rehabilitation, Robert and Suzanne Tomsich Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Miller Family Heart, Vascular & Thoracic Institute, Cleveland Clinic Cleveland, OH
| | - Satish R Raj
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
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Abstract
Dyspnea in low-preload states is an underrecognized but growing diagnosis in patients with unexplained dyspnea. Patients can often experience debilitating symptoms at rest and with exertion, as low measured preload often leads to decreased cardiac output and ultimately dyspnea. In the present article, we performed a review of the literature and a multidisciplinary evaluation to understand the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of dyspnea in low-preload states. We explored selected etiologies and suggested an algorithm to approach unexplained dyspnea. The mainstay of diagnosis remains as invasive cardiopulmonary exercise testing. We concluded with a variety of nonpharmacological and pharmacological therapies, highlighting that a multifactorial approach may lead to the best results.
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Y Lei L, S Chew D, K Sandhu R, S Sheldon R, R Raj S. Non-Pharmacological and Pharmacological Management of Cardiac Dysautonomia Syndromes. J Atr Fibrillation 2020; 13:2395. [PMID: 33024496 DOI: 10.4022/jafib.2395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2020] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Vasovagal syncope, postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, and inappropriate sinus tachycardia comprise a heterogenous group of common autonomic disorders that are associated with significant symptoms that impair quality of life. Clinical management of these disorders should prioritize conservative non-pharmacological therapies and consider incorporating pharmacological agents for recurrences. The selection and titration of medications may be complicated by the occurrence of potentially overlapping pathophysiological variants, differences in specific clinical presentations, and commonly associated comorbidities. However, with appropriate long-term management and specialist input, most patients note both symptomatic improvement and functional restoration over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Y Lei
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Derek S Chew
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Robert S Sheldon
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Satish R Raj
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Autonomic Dysfunction Center, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
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Raj SR, Guzman JC, Harvey P, Richer L, Schondorf R, Seifer C, Thibodeau-Jarry N, Sheldon RS. Canadian Cardiovascular Society Position Statement on Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) and Related Disorders of Chronic Orthostatic Intolerance. Can J Cardiol 2020; 36:357-372. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2019.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 12/15/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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Abstract
Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a clinically heterogeneous disorder with multiple contributing pathophysiologic mechanisms manifesting as symptoms of orthostatic intolerance in the setting of orthostatic tachycardia (increase in heart rate by at least 30 beats per minute upon assuming an upright position) without orthostatic hypotension. The three major pathophysiologic mechanisms include partial autonomic neuropathy, hypovolemia, and hyperadrenergic state. Patients often will exhibit overlapping characteristics from more than one of these mechanisms. The approach to the treatment of POTS centers on treating the underlying pathophysiologic mechanism. Stockings, abdominal binders, and vasoconstrictors are used to enhance venous return in partial neuropathic POTS. Exercise and volume expansion are the main treatment strategies for hypo-volemic POTS. For hyperadrenergic POTS, beta-blockers and avoidance of norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors is important. Attempts should be made to discern which pathophysiologic mechanism(s) may be afflicting patients so that treatment regimens can be individualized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip L. Mar
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, St. Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
| | - Satish R. Raj
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, Department of Cardiac Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4Z6, Canada
- Autonomic Dysfunction Center, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, USA
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Shaw BH, Stiles LE, Bourne K, Green EA, Shibao CA, Okamoto LE, Garland EM, Gamboa A, Diedrich A, Raj V, Sheldon RS, Biaggioni I, Robertson D, Raj SR. The face of postural tachycardia syndrome - insights from a large cross-sectional online community-based survey. J Intern Med 2019; 286:438-448. [PMID: 30861229 PMCID: PMC6790699 DOI: 10.1111/joim.12895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) experience chronic symptoms of orthostatic intolerance. There are minimal data detailing the demographics, clinical features and clinical course of this condition. This online, community-based survey highlights patients' experience with POTS. It consists of the largest sample of POTS patients reported to date. OBJECTIVES To describe the demographics, past medical history, medications, treatments and diagnostic journey for patients living with POTS. METHODS Postural tachycardia syndrome patients completed an online, community-based, cross-sectional survey. Participants were excluded if they had not received a diagnosis of POTS from a physician. The questions focused on the patient experience and journey, rather than physiological responses. RESULTS The final analysis included 4835 participants. POTS predominantly affects white (93%) females (94%) of childbearing age, with approximately half developing symptoms in adolescence (mode 14 years). POTS is a chronic multisystem disorder involving a broad array of symptoms, with many patients diagnosed with comorbidities in addition to POTS. POTS patients often experience lengthy delays [median (interquartile range) 24 (6-72) months] and misdiagnosis, but the diagnostic delay is improving. POTS patients can present with a myriad of symptoms most commonly including lightheadedness (99%), tachycardia (97%), presyncope (94%), headache (94%) and difficulty concentrating (94%). CONCLUSIONS These data provide important insights into the background, clinical features and diagnostic journey of patients suffering from POTS. These data should serve as an essential step for moving forward with future studies aimed at early and accurate diagnoses of these patients leading to appropriate treatments for their symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- B H Shaw
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - L E Stiles
- Department of Neurology, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, USA.,Dysautonomia International, East Moriches, NY, USA
| | - K Bourne
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - E A Green
- Autonomic Dysfunction Center, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - C A Shibao
- Autonomic Dysfunction Center, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - L E Okamoto
- Autonomic Dysfunction Center, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - E M Garland
- Autonomic Dysfunction Center, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - A Gamboa
- Autonomic Dysfunction Center, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - A Diedrich
- Autonomic Dysfunction Center, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - V Raj
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - R S Sheldon
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - I Biaggioni
- Autonomic Dysfunction Center, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - D Robertson
- Autonomic Dysfunction Center, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - S R Raj
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Autonomic Dysfunction Center, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
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