Brain dysfunction in adults and children

The brain is one of the main structures of the human body, which has relative autonomy and performs a regulatory function. The balance of the main processes in the body, the normal functioning of the main organs and systems depend on the coherence of the brain. Sometimes there is a dysfunction of the brain. The slightest disturbances in the brain lead to a noticeable imbalance, which manifests itself both in the disruption of the main functions of the brain, and in behavior, emotional and intellectual development.

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Epidemiology

According to statistics, minimal brain dysfunction occurs in every fifth child and every tenth adult. In 68% of cases, the cause is intrauterine damage, in 32% of cases, the pathology develops after birth.

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Causes dysfunction of brain structures

Dysfunction most often develops in children due to immaturity of brain structures at the time of birth. Metabolism and blood circulation in the main brain structures are also disrupted. This occurs against the background of a hereditary predisposition or pathology of pregnancy and childbirth.

Disorders may occur in prematurity as a result of premature birth, various diseases and toxicoses and inadequate nutrition during pregnancy. Anemia of pregnancy, hypoxia and asphyxia of the fetus can also lead to brain damage. The cause is often hemolytic disease, the threat of miscarriage or spontaneous abortion, various pathologies of labor, for example, weak labor, imminent labor.

The causes that contribute to dysfunction in early childhood are factors such as malnutrition, poor nutrition, vitamin deficiency, severe diseases, especially infectious ones, as well as those pathologies that cause oxygen deficiency (bronchial asthma, heart disease, heart failure).

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Risk factors

The risk group includes people with craniocerebral trauma, permanent circulatory disorders, and frequent loss of consciousness. The risk of developing pathology increases significantly in children with cardiac and respiratory dysfunction, who are subject to frequent epileptic seizures, nervous breakdowns, loss of consciousness, and convulsions.

Any disease that results in oxygen deficiency leads to disruption of normal brain functioning.

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Pathogenesis

The pathogenesis is based on disturbances in the structure and functional state of the brain. In most cases, damage occurs during intrauterine development of the child. After birth, the pathology is aggravated by various unfavorable environmental factors. Functional disturbances occur predominantly, while organic lesions are less noticeable.

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Symptoms dysfunction of brain structures

The main symptoms are various functional disorders of the brain. The child may exhibit inhibition or hyperactivity, behavior changes dramatically and differs significantly from peers. The child sits late, starts walking late. He/she has developmental delays: normal speech and pronunciation are impaired, various neurotic reactions and mental disorders develop. Fine motor skills and coordination of movements are impaired.

Often the pathology manifests itself against the background of a stressful situation, when the child is in an unfamiliar environment for a long time. The patient is characterized by the inability to concentrate, lack of perseverance, increased distractibility and lack of concentration. Subsequently, the child cannot cope with the school curriculum, lags behind in learning, and has different behavior.

The child also has poor sleep, frequent mood swings, emotional lability, and impulsiveness. Hyperactivity usually prevails over other qualities. A decrease in excessive activity occurs by adolescence.

Particular attention should be paid to the child if he/she becomes restless, twitches his/her arms and legs randomly, cannot calm down and come to his/her senses, reacts too impulsively to any events. A child with dysfunction cannot concentrate on one task, constantly takes on something new, does not finish the task. When communicating with peers, he/she may show impulsiveness and aggression.

External stimuli easily distract his attention, after which he cannot concentrate on a certain action for a long time. The child may not see or hear when someone speaks to him, talks a lot and without reason, talks to himself. Often such children are annoying, interrupt others, demand constant attention. They often lose and forget their things at home and at school, commit absolutely thoughtless acts that can be dangerous to life and health.

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Stages

As practice shows, if minimal brain disorders were diagnosed in childhood, they disappear or are significantly reduced over time. However, it should be noted that mainly neurological problems disappear, while psychological and adaptation problems continue to persist. Also, an adult may develop dysfunction due to a traumatic brain injury.

Adults with brain dysfunction experience difficulties in interpersonal communication, social interaction. Often, such people are characterized by a feeling of failure, immaturity. They exhibit a low level of adaptive abilities, unsatisfactory educational and work skills.

Often, problems with motor function, such as awkwardness and clumsiness, indicate brain dysfunction in adulthood. A person is unable to learn, cannot do the same thing for a long time, and lacks perseverance. Moods are constantly changing, depressions develop, often without any objective reason. There is a problem with voluntary attention, impulsive behavior, and excessive aggressiveness.

Such a person has a hard time withstanding stress, is characterized by a high degree of irritability and hysteria. It is difficult for him to cope with increased physical and intellectual stress. The main method of correcting the condition is massage and osteopathy sessions.

Minimal brain dysfunction

Often, it is the minimal dysfunction that is the cause of frequent headaches. In children, it leads to the development of hyperactivity and hypersensitivity. Children are overly excitable, it is difficult for them to concentrate on the task at hand, on monotonous work. Against the background of these disorders, secondary pathologies appear: memory impairment, attention, increased fatigue, decreased performance and learning ability.

Over time, neurotic disorders and epilepsy may develop. Currently, minimal disorders are observed in approximately 20% of children.

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Mild brain dysfunction

Mild dysfunction means minor damage to brain functions, in which only the functional state is impaired, while organic damage is not observed. Such damage is reversible. Children exhibit hyperactivity and poor memory. Attention is practically not developed.

At school, such children develop learning problems. Children cannot write correctly, clearly express their thoughts, and their spatial orientation is impaired. Hyperactivity makes it impossible to concentrate. In the treatment of this pathology, an important role is given to the psychological factor. Such children must be surrounded by a sufficient level of attention.

Some children, on the contrary, show hypoactivity. They look sluggish, apathetic, and have virtually no desires or interests. Speech is often impaired. The autonomic nervous system is unstable.

Disorders are especially intense in adolescence, when endocrine disorders, hormonal imbalance, and imperfections in nervous regulation occur. Teenagers are characterized by an increased interest in alcohol, drugs, and a craving for early sexual intercourse and various perverted tastes. Teenagers with such pathologies become asocial and aggressive. They are often drawn to committing crimes, participating in illegal and criminal organizations. A tendency toward cruelty, violence, and gambling is manifested.

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Moderate brain dysfunction

It manifests itself as a fairly persistent violation of venous outflow, congestion as a result of traumatic injury to the head. Dysfunction can also occur during childbirth, with improper care of the baby, the development of various infectious and inflammatory processes. Headaches often develop. The pain can be pulsating. It is usually associated with a change in weather, pressure drops. A spasm of the brain may occur, which is accompanied by nausea and vomiting. In the morning, dull pain occurs, there are cases of loss of consciousness, fainting. A bluish tint is observed on the face, cyanosis appears. A feeling of darkening in the eyes develops. In the first half of the day, as a rule, there is no activity, poor health is observed. Edema appears in the morning, in particular, the face and eyelids swell.

Various physiotherapeutic procedures, massage, manual therapy, osteopathy sessions are often used for treatment. Comprehensive diagnostics are also necessary, which will allow an accurate diagnosis to be made, the cause of the pathology to be determined, and the appropriate treatment to be selected. Medication is also recommended.

In addition, a child with moderate dysfunction should undergo psychocorrection, both with a specialist and at home. A teacher, speech therapist, and psychologist are required to participate in the work. This is due to the fact that headaches, spasms, and other symptoms often lead to mental disorders in a child. It is important to create a developing environment for him, a calm atmosphere. It is better to limit contacts with a large number of strangers.

It is necessary to pay as much attention and care to the child as possible. Parents must understand and realize that the difficulties that arise are not related to the child's character or behavior, but to functional disorders of the brain. Therefore, it is important to adequately treat the disease, educate it, and deal with it.

It is necessary to strictly adhere to the daily routine. Tasks should be aimed at concentration. Parents should be patient with the child, speak only in a calm tone, avoiding excessive emotionality. Instructions should be given clearly, they should not be contradictory. Computer and TV should be limited. An important condition is maintaining the necessary level of physical activity. It is important to control nutrition, ensure that it is complete and balanced. Only with strict adherence to all doctor's recommendations, timely treatment, careful work with the child, can brain dysfunction be successfully cured. Otherwise, the disease will progress.

Forms

There are many different classifications of brain damage, depending on which part is subject to deformation. According to the localization of the pathological process, the following types of dysfunction are distinguished:

• dysfunction of the dysencephalic structures of the brain, in which the regulation of appetite and sleep is disrupted. Thermoregulation and metabolic processes are disrupted;
• dysfunction of the brain stem structures, which are responsible primarily for vital functions such as breathing, loss of appetite, and impaired muscle tone;
• dysfunction of the midbrain structures that are responsible for the autonomic functions of the nervous system and emotional state.

Learn more about the types of brain dysfunctions.

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Complications and consequences

The consequences can be social and physical. Social consequences include difficulties with adaptation, problems with communication, learning, and work. Along with social disorders, vegetative-vascular dystonia, fluctuations in blood pressure, and vascular tone disorders develop.

In childhood, the consequences are less serious than in adulthood. The main problem of the adult contingent is a high level of social maladjustment, up to mental disorders and nervous pathologies.

In adulthood, brain dysfunction entails the inability to realize oneself professionally, the absence of career growth and professional development. Such people often suffer from drug addiction, alcoholism, are prone to suicide and illegal behavior. Also, brain dysfunction entails a large number of divorces, constant moving and changing jobs, frequent change of sexual partners, an immoral lifestyle.

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Diagnostics dysfunction of brain structures

The main diagnostics are carried out by an osteopath. The first diagnostic session immediately includes correction of the condition. This will allow us to assess whether the patient will feel better after the session. If there is an improvement, then the problem is of an osteopathic nature and requires further treatment. If there is no improvement within a few days, then the problem is of a different nature and further diagnostics are needed to detect the causes of the pathology. In most cases, instrumental and differential diagnostics are carried out.

The osteopath's job is to determine the damaged areas. After that, massage is used to correct them. By moving the spinal fluid, the spine regains its correct position and normal structure. Several osteopathic sessions will allow the vertebrae to be corrected. Several sessions will significantly alleviate the patient's condition.

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Tests

The patient's blood is required for the study. The main study is aimed at detecting glial neurotrophic substance in the blood. The analysis is carried out mainly by the enzyme immunoassay method. In order for the patient to be diagnosed with minimal brain dysfunction, the glial substance indicators must exceed 17.98 pg/l.

Clinical blood and urine tests can also be very informative. If necessary, a study of the cerebrospinal fluid is performed.

Many diseases are diagnosed based on the clinical picture of the pathology. In order to make a final conclusion about the diagnosis, it is necessary to compare the data of laboratory tests, instrumental methods and anamnesis. The person's family history, as well as the history of life and illness are studied. Additionally, consultations with specialists such as an orthopedist, ophthalmologist, psychiatrist may be required. If necessary, they will prescribe additional tests.

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Instrumental diagnostics

It is the main stage that makes it possible to make a final diagnosis. They mainly use special research methods, such as REG, CIT, CT, ultrasound, EEG. The results of all studies are compared with the results of the analyses, after which the final diagnosis is made.

If there is a suspicion of trauma during childbirth, hemorrhage, spondylography of the cervical vertebrae is performed. This is a method that allows assessing the degree and severity of the pathological process. The procedure consists of 4 X-ray images. They are performed from the side, straight, from below (with the head thrown back) and with the head tilted forward. This study is especially informative in case of profuse salivation and syncopal symptoms.

A method such as ultrasound Dopplerography has found wide application. With the help of this method, it is possible to obtain information about the state of blood flow in the head, as well as about how venous outflow from the brain is carried out. The features of the reaction of the brain vessels to holding the breath, turning the head are studied.

In case of dysfunctional disorders, a sonographic examination of the brain is also mandatory, which allows assessing the condition of the vessels and the size of the ventricles of the brain. The examination makes it possible to identify the cause of the developmental problems of the brain.

EEG is used to record the indicators of bioelectric activity of the brain, and also to record changes occurring in the brain. Indications for conducting an electroencephalogram are various convulsive states. In addition, such research methods as ultrasound of the brain, Dopplerography, encephalogram, neurosonography, brain scanning, X-ray, ultrasound are used. These methods make it possible not only to conduct diagnostics, but also to carry out therapeutic measures.

Dysfunction of midline brain structures on EEG

Electroencephalogram is a very informative method, which is carried out when there is a suspicion of disturbances in the functional state of the brain. The study is carried out in a special room. The room is dark, with good light and sound insulation.

The patient is given various stimuli and the brain activity indicators are recorded. The activity indicators are used to judge the delay in the mental and physical state of a person, as well as the degree of development of his skills. Using this method, it is possible to identify foci of epileptic activity.

The theta rhythm and delta rhythm are determined, which have a frequency of 8-14 Hz. These rhythms reflect the state of rest of a person, and are recorded in a person who is awake, but with closed eyes. The occurrence of such a pathological delta rhythm indicates a violation of the brain function. It appears exactly above the area in which pathological changes develop.

In case of brain dysfunction, alpha rhythm indicators have the greatest diagnostic significance. If they occur with high frequency and are unstable, we can talk about traumatic brain injury. This often occurs after a concussion or against the background of a traumatic brain injury.

A pattern has been identified: the greater the periodicity, duration and amplitude of such spindles, the more severe the inflammatory process.

The development of the second type of neurosis may be indicated by EEG desynchronization. In this case, slow waves predominate in all parts of the brain, which are normally recorded only during sleep.

If the EEG shows a synchronous theta rhythm, delta waves registered in all parts of the brain, as well as bursts of bilaterally synchronous theta waves with high amplitude, acquired dementia can be diagnosed. The presence of paroxysms and theta rhythms indicates the prevalence of the excitable type of psychopathy.

The appearance of diffuse changes without any other disorders can be considered as a normal variant. However, if such changes are detected against the background of paroxysmal changes and foci of pathological activity, we can talk about the presence of epilepsy and a tendency to seizures.

Depression may manifest itself as decreased bioelectrical activity of the brain. EEG can show the features of the functional state of the brain in various physiological states of the patient, for example, during sleep, wakefulness, active mental or physical activity. It is also possible to register signs of irritation of the cortex and midbrain structures, paroxysmal activity.

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Differential diagnosis

Differential diagnostics is based on identifying specific signs of certain diseases and differentiating between different diseases with similar signs. For example, in order to diagnose brain dysfunction, it is necessary to differentiate it from such a pathology as cerebral palsy. This is easiest to do based on clinical signs, as well as using instrumental research methods.

It is also necessary to differentiate dysfunction from head injuries and damage, infectious diseases such as meningitis. For this, mainly bacteriological research methods are used. Various poisonings, in particular, lead poisoning, manifest themselves in a similar way. Toxicological research is carried out to differentiate the diagnosis. Functional tests and instrumental studies are carried out to differentiate from cerebral hypoxia. It is necessary to differentiate from nervous and mental disorders.

Treatment dysfunction of brain structures

There are many methods for correcting dysfunctional states of the brain. They all differ greatly from each other. Each method is based on different approaches. In general, scientists from different countries of the world agree on a single point of view that a comprehensive approach is needed to correct brain dysfunctions. Corrective actions are carried out on the basis of an individual approach. Specialists have many approaches in their arsenal that make it possible to take into account the needs of different categories of patients.

The main methods that are most often used in practice are methods of neuropsychological and pedagogical correction. Modification of behavioral and emotional reactions.

If the applied therapy is ineffective, they resort to drug correction. The main groups of drugs are tranquilizers, antidepressants, psychostimulants, nootropic substances. Most doctors recognize amphetamines, such as Ritalin and Amitriptyline, which are classified as antidepressants, as the most effective means.

To conduct diagnostics and take timely measures, when the first signs of dysfunction appear, it is necessary to contact a pediatrician (therapist) or psychiatrist.

It should be noted that the treatment of the disease is associated with a number of difficulties. For example, it is necessary to provide the child or adult with the necessary level of motor activity, since without it it is impossible to guarantee the success of the treatment. It is important to pay attention to the development of such qualities as dexterity and coordination of movements.

When using psychological and pedagogical methods of correction, it is important to ensure full-fledged work with the child in the family. He needs to be given due attention, use various developmental joint games. It is necessary to limit the time the child spends at the computer, in front of the TV. It is advisable to replace this type of leisure with active games, walks in the fresh air. Parents should spend as much time together as possible. The daily routine should be carefully thought out, communication with the child should be organized. Nutrition should be timely and complete. The child should receive the necessary amount of attention, the proper level of encouragement and praise.

The therapy plan depends on the goals to be achieved and the severity of the main symptoms. For example, in case of hyperactivity, therapy should be aimed at reducing activity, eliminating impulsivity, and preventing rash actions. The child needs to be taught to be attentive and control oneself. Sedatives and calming agents will help with this. Both medications and various herbs and homeopathic remedies can be used. Vitamin therapy is mandatory. If necessary, supplements containing nutrients are introduced into the diet.

If other manifestations of the disease are detected, symptomatic therapy is carried out aimed at suppressing these symptoms.

If the child has predominantly inhibition, therapy should be aimed at excitation, activation of brain structures. It is also important to use means aimed at activating motor skills, mental activity. Various stimulants are often used.

Medicines

Brain dysfunction is treated quite effectively with medications. When using them, you need to take a number of precautions. Medicines should never be taken on your own, without a doctor's prescription. In most cases, this ends in serious consequences. The situation only worsens, pathologies of other parts of the brain develop. With improper treatment, dysfunction can develop from a mild form into a pronounced, persistent one. Medicines require precise adherence to dosage and treatment regimens. Side effects manifest themselves in the form of worsening pathology, headaches, migraines.

Melleril, which belongs to the group of potent neuroleptics, has proven itself well. But it reduces hyperactivity, increased excitability and normalizes the work of the central nervous system. It is used for dysfunction of the brain, severe irritability, neurasthenia, neuroses. It is recommended to take 0.005 grams three times a day. In severe mental illnesses, the dosage is increased to 50-100 mg per day. It should be taken into account that with prolonged use, the number of leukocytes may decrease. Dry mouth may occur, extrapyramidal disorders often develop. It should not be taken in case of eye diseases and problems with the retina.

Trioxazine is used for increased excitability and neurotic diseases. It also effectively combats irritability, insomnia, weakness and increased fatigue. Take 0.3 grams three times a day. Side effects and signs of overdose include dry mouth, nausea, and vomiting.

Seduxen promotes muscle relaxation, has a calming effect on the central nervous system, and eliminates convulsions. The daily dosage for an adult is 8-10 mg.

Aminolone is used to treat birth injuries and postnatal brain damage. The drug is indicated for mental retardation, physical and mental retardation, and various brain dysfunctions. Take 1 gram twice daily.

Vitamins

For brain dysfunctions, it is recommended to take vitamins in the following daily doses:

• Vitamin PP – 60 mg
• Vitamin H – 150 mcg
• Vitamin C – 500-1000 mg
• Vitamin D – 45 mcg.

Physiotherapy treatment

It is used when traditional drug treatment is ineffective. Physiotherapeutic methods are selected based on the individual characteristics of the body, the purpose and objectives of the corrective interventions. In most cases, the complex of treatment methods includes manual therapy sessions, sessions aimed at restoring the spine, massage. Kinesiotherapy has proven itself well. Acupuncture and electrical stimulation methods can be used to improve metabolic processes.

Folk remedies

Traditional medicine is widely used to treat dysfunctional disorders of the brain.

It is recommended to take a vitamin mixture that can be easily prepared at home. To prepare it, take 150 grams of dried apricots, raisins, prunes and walnuts. Put it all through a meat grinder. Add the juice of one lemon and the juice obtained from the pulp of an aloe leaf. Mix everything thoroughly, add a tablespoon of honey. Infuse for 24 hours in the refrigerator. Take a tablespoon three times a day. Saturates the body with vitamins, promotes rapid recovery, stimulates the immune system.

It is also advisable to drink vitaminized juice for dysfunctions. To prepare, you need 200 ml of pomegranate juice and 50 ml of hawthorn juice or syrup. Mix, you can add honey to taste. Drink in 2 doses: part in the morning, the second part in the evening. The course lasts 7-14 days.

To cleanse the body and stimulate metabolic processes, aloe juice with honey is prescribed. To prepare, take 50 grams of juice and a tablespoon of honey. Mix thoroughly. Allow to brew for half an hour. Drink in 1 or 2 approaches. The course of treatment is from 5 to 7 days.

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Herbal treatment

You can treat dysfunctions with herbs. Chamomile is very helpful in this. It helps relieve inflammation and has a tonic and calming effect on the body. Use a decoction: pour 1.5 tablespoons of the herb with a glass of boiling water and leave for half an hour. Drink half a glass twice a day. You can also add chamomile to tea and drink it in unlimited quantities throughout the day.

A decoction of mint has proven itself well. To prepare it, you need 1-2 tablespoons of mint. Pour a glass of boiling water over it and drink in small sips throughout the day. It has a calming effect on the body and tones the nervous system. It eliminates side dyspeptic disorders and nausea. It is not recommended for men to take it, as it contains female hormones that help restore and normalize the female hormonal background and negatively affect the hormonal background of men.

In case of increased excitability of the nervous system, irritability, nervousness, restlessness, take a decoction of motherwort. To prepare, pour 2 tablespoons of the herb with 500 ml of boiling water, leave for an hour. Drink like tea. The entire decoction must be drunk within 24 hours. The next day, brew a new one. The duration of treatment should be at least a month.

Homeopathy

Homeopathic remedies are quite effective in treating various disorders of the brain. However, they are not so safe that they can be taken without supervision. They can have serious side effects, both on the brain and on other organs and systems. An important precaution is to be careful - take homeopathic remedies only after a comprehensive diagnosis has been made and the cause of the pathology has been identified. This will make it possible to select the remedy as accurately as possible, to incorporate the optimal treatment regimen.

The herbal collection has proven itself well. To prepare it, take a tablespoon of chamomile, calendula flowers and mint. Mix, pour two glasses of boiling water, drink throughout the day. Helps relieve stress, fatigue, nervous and mental strain. Has a tonic and calming effect.

In case of depression, loss of strength, weakness of nervous origin, a herbal collection is recommended. To prepare, take a tablespoon of aster flowers and half a tablespoon of knotweed. To brew the mixture, pour a glass of boiling water and leave for an hour. Then drink a third of a glass three times a day.

To eliminate brain disorders and normalize its main functions, use ginseng infusion. To prepare, take 5-10 grams of the plant, pour a glass of vodka, and leave for 24 hours. Drink 2 tablespoons three times a day for 15 days.

Chicory is used for brain disorders, hysteria and depressive states. About 20 grams of chicory per glass of water. Brew like tea, drink 2-3 times a day.

Prevention

Prevention of disorders of normal brain activity comes down to preventing intrauterine disorders and birth injuries. After the birth of a child, it is impossible to allow the formation of stereotypical thinking. It is necessary to devote as much time as possible to development, communication, walks, joint creativity. Children should receive the necessary amount of vitamins. It is important to attend preventive examinations on time, visit a psychologist, psychiatrist, speech therapist. A routine examination by a neurologist is also necessary. If treatment is necessary, it should be carried out as quickly as possible.

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Forecast

With a minimal and mild degree of pathology, the symptoms of the disease disappear on their own as the child grows older and finally stop bothering him by adolescence.

In more severe pathologies, disorders do not disappear on their own, but require mandatory correction. If you follow all the doctor's recommendations, work with your child at home, you can overcome dysfunction without consequences. If you treat correction and treatment irresponsibly, brain dysfunction can lead to deterioration of health, mental disorders and social adaptation.

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