Social Sciences and Intelligence Management

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Education Sciences education	2.5	4.8	2011	29.8 Days	CHF 1800
Journal of Intelligence jintelligence	2.8	2.8	2013	25.8 Days	CHF 2600
Languages languages	0.9	1.4	2016	56.8 Days	CHF 1400
Social Sciences socsci	1.7	2.6	2012	34.2 Days	CHF 1800
Societies societies	1.7	3.1	2011	32.1 Days	CHF 1400

12 pages, 503 KiB

Open AccessConcept Paper

Research Duos: Unveiling the Collaborative Essence of Research

by Ekaterina Glebova

Societies 2024, 14(9), 175; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14090175 - 6 Sep 2024

Viewed by 865

Through an integrative literature review and theory adaption approach, this research aims to shed light on the efficacy of research partnerships and their implications for academic scholarship and knowledge production. Adapting the concept of creative duos to research activities presents a promising avenue [...] Read more.

Through an integrative literature review and theory adaption approach, this research aims to shed light on the efficacy of research partnerships and their implications for academic scholarship and knowledge production. Adapting the concept of creative duos to research activities presents a promising avenue for interdisciplinary collaboration and enhanced productivity. This review explores the application of research partnerships, akin to creative duos, in academic contexts. Research duos involve pairs of scholars who collaborate closely to investigate specific topics, address complex problems, or advance knowledge within their respective fields. This paper delineates the characteristics and potential benefits of research duos, drawing parallels to creative partnerships in various artistic domains. Additionally, it examines the advantages and disadvantages of researching in duos, roles within partnerships, the possible role of artificial intelligence as a partner within a duo, and factors contributing to successful research collaborations and identifies best practices for forming and sustaining effective research duos. By recognizing duos as the fundamental unit of collaborative research, we can understand how their inherent strengths contribute to the effectiveness of larger groups, supporting efficient communication, strong interpersonal bonds, and clear organizational structures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Social Sciences and Intelligence Management)

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34 pages, 8752 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

The Role of the Quality Management Process within Society 5.0

by Biljana Maljugić, Dragan Ćoćkalo, Mihalj Bakator and Sanja Stanisavljev

Societies 2024, 14(7), 111; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14070111 - 3 Jul 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2440

Abstract

This paper conducts a comprehensive review following the PRISMA methodology to explore the evolution and necessity of quality management in the era of Society 5.0, covering publications from 2017 to 2022. Through a meticulous process involving planning, conducting and reporting the review, along [...] Read more.

This paper conducts a comprehensive review following the PRISMA methodology to explore the evolution and necessity of quality management in the era of Society 5.0, covering publications from 2017 to 2022. Through a meticulous process involving planning, conducting and reporting the review, along with a theory-driven selection and analysis of content, it aims to construct a theoretical model for quality management in Society 5.0. This model underscores the integration of quality management with Society 5.0’s principles, focusing on human-centric technological advancement and addressing social challenges to enhance life quality. The findings reveal a framework that could drive the transition to Society 5.0 by leveraging key inputs for tangible outcomes. The paper’s originality lies in its in-depth analysis and the proposed model’s potential to guide industries and governments towards sustainable development in the context of Society 5.0, marking a valuable contribution to future research in this field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Social Sciences and Intelligence Management)

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17 pages, 956 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Strengthening the Attachment to Local Brands through Consumer Ethnocentrism and Impactful Entrepreneurship Education

by Herring Shava

Societies 2024, 14(7), 109; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14070109 - 3 Jul 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1321

Abstract

This study investigates whether consumer ethnocentrism, a concept that refers to the tendency of consumers to favor domestic products over foreign ones, and entrepreneurship education are variables that can be used to strengthen attachment to local brands. Brand attachment is a well-researched concept [...] Read more.

This study investigates whether consumer ethnocentrism, a concept that refers to the tendency of consumers to favor domestic products over foreign ones, and entrepreneurship education are variables that can be used to strengthen attachment to local brands. Brand attachment is a well-researched concept in marketing literature. Many variables have been found to have different impacts on brand attachment across the globe. However, studies linking consumer ethnocentrism and entrepreneurship education to brand attachment are scarce, and this study contributes in that regard. Furthermore, the study examines whether entrepreneurship education mediates the association between consumer ethnocentrism and brand attachment. The study adopted a quantitative research methodology. Primary data were gathered through a survey. Past and current entrepreneurship education candidates were targeted. Factor analysis, simple linear regression, and hierarchical regression analyses using PROCESS were performed to make sense of the data. The study’s findings reveal that consumer ethnocentrism and entrepreneurship education can be used to strengthen attachment to local brands. The study recommends that marketing practitioners, scholars, and policymakers collaborate to design an impactful entrepreneurship education curriculum with the goal of enhancing consumer ethnocentrism, leading to increased interaction between consumers and local brands. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Social Sciences and Intelligence Management)

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16 pages, 2903 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Unveiling the Complex Facets of Poverty: Unidimensional and Multidimensional Insights from Rural Areas of Suri Sadar Sub-Division, Birbhum District, Eastern India

by Ranajit Ghosh and Prolay Mondal

Societies 2024, 14(4), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14040054 - 17 Apr 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2163

Abstract

Poverty, particularly in developing regions, is a complex, multifaceted issue deeply embedded in various interrelated factors. It extends beyond mere financial insufficiency, encompassing limited access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and overall living standards. This study examines both the unidimensional and [...] Read more.

Poverty, particularly in developing regions, is a complex, multifaceted issue deeply embedded in various interrelated factors. It extends beyond mere financial insufficiency, encompassing limited access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and overall living standards. This study examines both the unidimensional and multidimensional aspects of rural poverty in Suri Sadar Sub-Division, located in Eastern India. For the unidimensional aspect, this study employs the poverty headcount ratio and the Poverty Gap Index to gauge the incidence and intensity of poverty. In contrast, the multidimensional approach utilized three dimensions and 12 indicators to assess the incidence, severity, and multidimensional poverty index utilizing the Alkire–Foster (AF) methodology. The unidimensional analysis, focusing on income and consumption, highlights significant economic disparities, particularly in the western Community Development Blocks, namely, Khoyrasole, Md. Bazar, and Rajnagar. The highest levels of multidimensional poverty are generally consistent with the unidimensional findings, particularly in the western blocks. These results underscore the need for comprehensive poverty reduction strategies that address both economic and broader aspects of poverty. In areas like the western blocks, where both income-based and multidimensional poverty rates are high, strategies should integrate economic development, improved healthcare access, enhanced educational quality, and living standards improvement. Therefore, this study serves not only as an academic endeavor but also as a vital tool for informed policymaking in poverty alleviation, providing planners, administrative officials, and researchers with essential insights to develop effective, localized, and sustainable poverty reduction strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Social Sciences and Intelligence Management)

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11 pages, 251 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Transformation of Educational Values via Cultural Offerings in the Context of Teacher Education

by Linda Pavitola, Lasma Latsone and Svetlana Usca

Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(4), 188; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13040188 - 26 Mar 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1944

Abstract

Education and culture are seen as key components of the learning process. In this context, discussions about the quality of education and approaches to strengthening educational values, as well as the importance of culture in the transmission of these values, are becoming increasingly [...] Read more.

Education and culture are seen as key components of the learning process. In this context, discussions about the quality of education and approaches to strengthening educational values, as well as the importance of culture in the transmission of these values, are becoming increasingly relevant. However, in Latvia, studies regarding people who attend various cultural events do not focus on strengthening educational values or linking them to the cultural context. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to explore how educational values are linked to current trends in cultural offerings and how they are reflected in teacher education. The research methodology followed a qualitative and quantitative research paradigm and the specifics of interdisciplinary research. The data were obtained using surveys and focus group discussions. The overall strategy of the study is based on a holistic, multidisciplinary approach that takes the regional discourse in Latvia into account. The research results prove that cultural experiences have contributed to the development of most respondents’ personalities and emphasize the role of teachers in the transmission of educational values. The qualitative and educational content of cultural offerings promotes a culture of discussion, strengthens community consciousness, and shapes cultural taste. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Social Sciences and Intelligence Management)

11 pages, 301 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Teachers’ Attitude towards Inclusive Education: Latvian and Lithuanian Experiences

by Dina Bethere, Romalda Kasiliauskiene, Linda Pavitola and Svetlana Usca

Soc. Sci. 2023, 12(7), 365; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci12070365 - 23 Jun 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2754

Abstract

Inclusive education is a continuous process of transformation of the education system. It is both an approach to teaching and learning, as well as a different organization of the educational process that welcomes all students regardless of their social skills and physical and [...] Read more.

Inclusive education is a continuous process of transformation of the education system. It is both an approach to teaching and learning, as well as a different organization of the educational process that welcomes all students regardless of their social skills and physical and intellectual abilities. The qualitative implementation of inclusive education requires competent staff. The study reflects a comparative study carried out in Latvia and Lithuania, and it focuses on Latvian and Lithuanian teachers’ attitude self-assessment regarding the implementation of inclusive education. A three-dimensional model, including the cognitive, affective, and behaviour components, are used for the study. The Technical Manual for Attitudes Towards Teaching All Students Instrument developed by Gregory Jess L. and Noto Lori A. has been applied in the study. The SPSS 25.0 programme, Pearson Correlation, and One-Way ANOVA tests were used for the statistical analysis of the data. The results reveal, and generally confirm, differences in the structure of Latvian and Lithuanian teachers’ attitudes, as well as emphasize the importance of teachers and support specialists’ competence improvement to ensure optimal teaching and learning processes for all learners involved in the educational process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Social Sciences and Intelligence Management)

10 pages, 252 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Needs of Youth in Transition after the Alternative Education Program in Taiwan

by May-Ling Chen, Po-man Holly Eng and Liza Lee

Soc. Sci. 2023, 12(6), 362; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci12060362 - 19 Jun 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2137

Abstract

In Taiwan, three alternative education programs are available to support school dropouts facing difficulties in mainstream education. While some programs offer residential services specifically for individuals from dysfunctional families, eligibility is limited to those under 15, as the primary objective is to facilitate [...] Read more.

In Taiwan, three alternative education programs are available to support school dropouts facing difficulties in mainstream education. While some programs offer residential services specifically for individuals from dysfunctional families, eligibility is limited to those under 15, as the primary objective is to facilitate compulsory education completion. Consequently, when reaching age 15, program leavers must decide between returning to dysfunctional families and pursuing independent living. To examine how these programs can address the needs of the leavers, this study conducted semi-structured interviews with six program leaders nationwide. The findings revealed that the leavers have diverse needs, necessitating relevant services for a successful transition into adulthood. However, due to the absence of applicable laws or government policies regarding the leavers, the programs can only offer services during the pre- or post-leaving stages through private funding and community resources. This raises concerns regarding such services’ stability and long-term sustainability, highlighting the importance of adequate funding. Collaboration between the government and program leaders is crucial in facilitating the leavers’ transition based on the experiences of current programs and their specific needs, ultimately contributing to improved outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Social Sciences and Intelligence Management)

15 pages, 483 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Using Participatory Teaching in Hands-On Courses: Exploring the Influence of Teaching Cases on Learning Motivation

by Yung-Chuan Ma

Educ. Sci. 2023, 13(6), 547; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci13060547 - 25 May 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4199

Abstract

Industrial design is an applied discipline that combines aesthetics and engineering. Through hands-on activities, students can better understand shapes and details in model making. The literature shows that hands-on courses help enhance students’ creativity, learning motivation, and interest. Model-making courses are one of [...] Read more.

Industrial design is an applied discipline that combines aesthetics and engineering. Through hands-on activities, students can better understand shapes and details in model making. The literature shows that hands-on courses help enhance students’ creativity, learning motivation, and interest. Model-making courses are one of the hands-on courses in industrial design programs. To enhance students’ learning enthusiasm in the practical course of this study, we introduced a “participatory teaching method”. To examine changes in students’ learning motivation after the new teaching method was introduced, the researchers conducted mid-term and final questionnaires and collected feedback on the students’ learning experiences. The results showed that the introduction of the participatory teaching method had a positive impact on students’ learning motivation, as they could participate in the planning and evaluation of course content. These results can serve as a reference for future course planning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Social Sciences and Intelligence Management)

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11 pages, 648 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Learning by Co-Designing a Board Game to Make Chain Store Knowledge More Robust

by Kuan-Yin Lee, Yu-Hsin Chang and Prasana Kumar Samanta

Educ. Sci. 2023, 13(4), 391; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci13040391 - 13 Apr 2023

Viewed by 2667

Abstract

The modern student is used to visual information and needs an engaging, stimulating, and fun method of teaching to make learning enjoyable and memorable. Recently, more and more teachers are changing traditional teaching methods and incorporating the concept of learner-centered teaching into their [...] Read more.

The modern student is used to visual information and needs an engaging, stimulating, and fun method of teaching to make learning enjoyable and memorable. Recently, more and more teachers are changing traditional teaching methods and incorporating the concept of learner-centered teaching into their courses. Students must actively identify gaps in self-knowledge, construct clear learning topics, and then integrate relevant information to explain or solve problems. In order to enhance students’ interest in learning and affect their learning effectiveness, the present study introduces students to problem-oriented and game-based learning methods for solving the development problems of chain board games. Students in the third year already possess basic theoretical knowledge and have achieved relevant learning achievements, such as competition awards, industry/academic experience, class cadre experience, community service, etc. Thus, 125 students from two classes participated in this study via quantitative questionnaires. Data analysis with SPSS data revealed significant differences between learning effectiveness and learning methods, social interaction, and subject engagement; students with good learning outcomes were significantly more likely to organize notes and use methods than those with poor learning outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Social Sciences and Intelligence Management)

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13 pages, 493 KiB

Open AccessStudy Protocol

University Students Attitudes toward Same-Sex Marriage Adoption in Taiwan

by Hui-Chi Wang and Hua-Chang Lee

Soc. Sci. 2023, 12(4), 201; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci12040201 - 28 Mar 2023

Viewed by 3951

Abstract

Taiwan is the first country in Asia to recognize the legal rights of same-sex couples to get married. Although same-sex marriage has been legal in Taiwan since May 2019, the same-sex marriage family was not allowed to adopt child legally; only stepchild adoption [...] Read more.

Taiwan is the first country in Asia to recognize the legal rights of same-sex couples to get married. Although same-sex marriage has been legal in Taiwan since May 2019, the same-sex marriage family was not allowed to adopt child legally; only stepchild adoption was permitted. This is still a very controversial issue, so this study intended to understand the views of Taiwanese college students, whose voices should be heard and whose opinions should be valued by legislators. To investigate this issue, a questionnaire was constructed, and 440 objects were collected. The questionnaire regarding attitudes toward same-sex marriage adoption consisted of three dimensions: “Worry and against”, “Idea Recognition” and “Action Support”. Each dimension has good reliability. The internal consistent coefficients (Cronbach’s α) were 0.86, 0.93, and 0.94. The responses reveal that college students in Taiwan have a relatively positive attitude towards same-sex marriage adoption, and college students who are biologically female, non-heterosexual, non-Christian, major in social work, and are acquainted with the LGBT community have more positive attitudes. College students’ same-sex marriage and adoption attitudes can be predicted by biological sex, sexual orientation, religion, grade, whether they major in social work, have contact experience with the LGBT community, contact experience with adoption, and same-sex parenting concepts. The same-sex parenting concept is the most important predictor variable, which means that the judgment about whether same-sex marriage couples can bear the responsibility of raising children is the most critical factor affecting the attitude of same-sex marriage adoption. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Social Sciences and Intelligence Management)

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20 pages, 1110 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Role of Connectors in Corporate Fraud and Corruptions in Era of Circular Economy

by Salomon Ricardo Bignon Nagnonhou, Joshua Onome Imoniana, Luciane Reginato and Washington Lopes Silva

Soc. Sci. 2023, 12(3), 134; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci12030134 - 27 Feb 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2924

Abstract

This paper examines the role of connectors in a fraud and corruption-prone environment of the circular economy. A qualitative approach and critical perspective were adopted. In the same line of thought, this study drew on narratives of fraud experiences from the Criminalistica Symposium [...] Read more.

This paper examines the role of connectors in a fraud and corruption-prone environment of the circular economy. A qualitative approach and critical perspective were adopted. In the same line of thought, this study drew on narratives of fraud experiences from the Criminalistica Symposium between 2017 and 2022, as well as interviews with forensic accountants, auditing experts, and police investigators, to foment discourse analysis derived from Machiavellian theory. Thematic coding was selected for the presentation of results. Our findings lead us to the conclusion that there are five identified connector roles in an organization. The connectors have the role of mainly influencing acts of corporate fraud and corruption, which have the characteristics of a double-edged sword. Connectors serve as team motivators and sometimes as manipulators, and they also have the role of spearheading negotiations in tumultuous times of employee disorder and employers’ disagreements, almost leading to uneasy truces. Additionally, in a bid to perpetrate fraud, the connector assists in the role of overriding controls. Inasmuch as it bears the trait of acting as an agent of knowledge building by facilitating learning and communication in organizations in a CE environment, this study contributes to the literature showing various roles of connectors in fraud schemes. Finally, bearing the originality, understanding the role of connectors in circular economy fraud and corruption schemes clarifies our path to expected wellbeing in the concept of sustainability in our ways of life in the coming decades attuned to policymakers and regulators. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Social Sciences and Intelligence Management)

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13 pages, 837 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of Inclusive Education Learning Design in the Era of Society 5.0

by Hamsi Mansur, Agus Hadi Utama, Mohd Hanafi Mohd Yasin, Nina Permata Sari, Khairul Azhar Jamaludin and Fitra Pinandhita

Soc. Sci. 2023, 12(1), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci12010035 - 4 Jan 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 6722

Abstract

Era of Society 5.0 has had a significant impact on the implementation of education for students in Indonesia, which presents opportunities and challenges for educators in each education unit. One of the education units that feels this impact is inclusive education. Inclusive education [...] Read more.

Era of Society 5.0 has had a significant impact on the implementation of education for students in Indonesia, which presents opportunities and challenges for educators in each education unit. One of the education units that feels this impact is inclusive education. Inclusive education learning designs in which there are special assistant teachers have a more dominant social constructivist tendency than those with regular education teachers. The development of the right inclusive education learning design will help children with special needs in achieving their optimal potential development according to their conditions and needs in the community. This study aims to propose inclusive education learning designs that are relevant to Era of Society 5.0 based on national education standards including standard processes, standards for educators, and standards for infrastructure. This study employs a descriptive qualitative study, and. the primary data collection instruments were in the form of observations and interviews, as well as documentation as a secondary data collection instrument. Participants were selected using a purposive sampling technique and they were from five inclusive schools in the province of South Kalimantan. The data analysis technique uses content analysis. The results of the study show that Era of Society 5.0 is in line with the development of inclusive education learning designs and is relevant to the Indonesian national education system which includes standard processes, standards for educators, and standards for infrastructure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Social Sciences and Intelligence Management)

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12 pages, 1435 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Dysfunctional Legal Framework for Failed Public–Private Partnership Projects: Accounting or Economics?

by Vicente Alcaraz Carrillo de Albornoz, Juan Molina Millán, Antonio Lorenzo Lara Galera and Belén Muñoz-Medina

Soc. Sci. 2022, 11(12), 554; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci11120554 - 28 Nov 2022

Viewed by 2398

Abstract

Public–private partnerships (PPP) are complex long-term arrangements used in public infrastructure, public services or public facilities projects. To ensure that PPPs transfer enough risk to the private sector, European directives first and member states’ national legal frameworks later have modified how these projects [...] Read more.

Public–private partnerships (PPP) are complex long-term arrangements used in public infrastructure, public services or public facilities projects. To ensure that PPPs transfer enough risk to the private sector, European directives first and member states’ national legal frameworks later have modified how these projects are treated in the event of early termination. This paper aims to analyze said changes to determine if they well serve the public interest. The analysis is done by mapping the different alternatives a granting authority has when confronted with a PPP early termination, as stated by the law. We illustrate our analysis with a case study: The Móstoles-Navalcarnero railway, a Spanish PPP project that came to early termination during the construction stage. For this project, we determine the options available to the granting authority with the old Spanish legal framework (in force at the time the project was awarded) and with the new Spanish legal framework. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Social Sciences and Intelligence Management)

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17 pages, 1706 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of the World’s Best Pension Systems: The Lesson for Indonesia

by Abdul Hadi, Emese Bruder and Widhayani Puri Setioningtyas

Soc. Sci. 2022, 11(10), 435; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci11100435 - 23 Sep 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 5103

Abstract

Iceland and the Netherlands presently have the best pension systems in the world, according to the Mercer CFA Institute Global Pension Index 2021. In the meantime, Indonesia ranked 35th. This study compares and analyzes Iceland’s and the Netherlands’ current pension systems as the [...] Read more.

Iceland and the Netherlands presently have the best pension systems in the world, according to the Mercer CFA Institute Global Pension Index 2021. In the meantime, Indonesia ranked 35th. This study compares and analyzes Iceland’s and the Netherlands’ current pension systems as the finest in the world, as well as the future threats to their pension systems, and applies the lessons learned from both nations to Indonesia, which intends to alter its public pension system. According to a comparative analysis of Iceland, the Netherlands, and Indonesia, the overall pension systems of Iceland and the Netherlands are advantageous for ensuring adequacy and sustainability of the pension system. However, Iceland and the Netherlands may suffer adequacy and sustainability issues in the long run. As a result, they should continue to evaluate their own countries’ present structures, notably in demographics. Concerning the Indonesia pension system, Indonesia policymakers should consider enforcing the social security system, since these systems have enabled Iceland and the Netherlands to have lower poverty rates. Furthermore, the Indonesian government should strengthen the existing PAYG and DB pension systems, raise the minimum pension eligibility age, contribute to the system regularly, and apply the cost-of-living adjustments to improve the adequacy and sustainability of the civil service pension system. Simultaneously, civil servants should contribute more to ensure the long-term viability of this pension system. The Indonesian government should implement such adjustments, as they would enhance budgetary sustainability in the long run. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Social Sciences and Intelligence Management)

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