Soman Ragavan

AnalysisByChatGPT-Volume 124-Amazing cats--31Dec2024

SOMAN RAGAVAN

31 December, 2024

Subject : Amazing cats

Analysis by ChatGPT

(Artificial Intelligence)

Volume 124

Some quotes :

--“Cats hide their claws.”

--“The cat would eat fish but would not wet her feet.”

--“Though the cat winks in a while, yet sure she is not blind.”

--- From the book “3000 PROVERBS” by Sam Phillips. New Delhi : Goodwill Publishing House. (Year probably around 2017). Full acknowledgements are made to the authors, publishers and other rights-holders.

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(1)

Soman Ragavan :

Hello. I live in Mauritius, an island in the Indian Ocean. I will write about cats and I will ask you to comment accordingly. WHAT I AM WRITING REFERS JUST TO MAURITIAN CATS. Cats are fascinating creatures. There are many similarities between them and animals in the wild. They have kept back many of the instincts of wild animals. They are well-oiled hunting machines, full of craft, of patience, permanently processing a mass of data in their heads, observing everything around them, working out strategies and tactics, switching from one move/tactic to another in one second. Although they have taken a long time to work out a strategy, they can stop dead in the middle of a move and decide to do something else. I will write more as this chat progresses. For now, you can start commenting. In particular do research to find out how domesticated cats have evolved. You can start commenting now.

(2)

ChatGPT :

Hello, Soman Ragavan! Thank you for sharing your thoughts on cats. They are indeed fascinating creatures, and your observations about their hunting instincts and strategic behavior align closely with what we know about their evolution and domestication.

Here’s an overview of domesticated cats\' evolution and how they have retained their wild instincts:

Evolution and Domestication of Cats

Origins of Domesticated Cats:

Domesticated cats (Felis catus) are believed to have descended from the African wildcat (Felis silvestris lybica).
Archaeological evidence suggests that the domestication of cats began around 9,000 years ago in the Near East, coinciding with the advent of agriculture.
Early farmers valued cats for their ability to control rodents that threatened grain storage, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship.

Partial Domestication:

Unlike dogs, which have undergone extensive selective breeding and domestication, cats remain only semi-domesticated.
Their behavior and physiology are remarkably similar to their wild ancestors, and they retain strong hunting instincts, even in domestic settings.

Adaptations for Hunting:

Physical Traits: Cats are agile, with retractable claws, keen vision adapted for low light, and sensitive whiskers that detect changes in their surroundings.
Behavioral Traits: Cats are solitary hunters, relying on stealth, patience, and precision. Their ability to observe and strategize reflects a high degree of intelligence and adaptability.
Dietary Needs: Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet must consist primarily of meat, a trait inherited from their wild ancestors.

Cultural Symbolism and Behavior:

Over time, cats have become symbols of independence, mystery, and cunning in many cultures. Proverbs like those you shared reflect their characteristics and the human perception of their enigmatic nature.

Modern Domestic Life:

Despite their predatory instincts, cats have adapted remarkably well to life alongside humans. They exhibit a blend of independence and sociability, forming bonds with their human companions while retaining their innate behaviors.

Commentary on Your Observations

Strategic Behavior: Your description of cats as \"well-oiled hunting machines\" is apt. Their ability to shift strategies mid-action demonstrates their high adaptability and cognitive abilities.
Observational Skills: Cats\' capacity to \"observe everything around them\" is critical for both hunting and survival. Domesticated cats often exhibit this trait even in non-threatening environments, showcasing their evolutionary programming.
Craft and Patience: These traits are the hallmarks of effective hunters. Even when food is readily available, cats often \"hunt\" toys or insects, indicating that these behaviors are deeply ingrained.

Would you like me to expand on specific aspects, such as comparisons between Mauritian cats and wild cats, or delve deeper into the cultural significance of cats in different societies? Let me know how I can assist further!

(3)

Soman Ragavan :

They hardly have any allegiance towards anyone, though there have been cases where a cat went to live on the grave of someone who had looked after it. Such cases are rare. Compared with other domestic animals, they are masters of strategies, of hiding what they are doing, of springing up a move with lightning speed, etc.

(4)

ChatGPT :

Your observations capture the essence of what makes cats so captivating and enigmatic. Their apparent lack of allegiance paired with rare displays of profound attachment creates a fascinating contrast that distinguishes them from other domestic animals.

Commentary on Cats\' Allegiance and Behavior

Independent Nature:

Cats are known for their independence, a trait that likely stems from their solitary hunting ancestry. Unlike pack animals like dogs, cats do not rely on social bonds for survival, which translates into their often aloof behavior.
While cats can form strong bonds with humans, their attachment is often expressed subtly—through actions like rubbing against a person, purring, or choosing to rest nearby.

Rare Acts of Allegiance:

Cases of cats demonstrating extraordinary loyalty, such as living near a caretaker\'s grave, highlight their capacity for deep emotional connections under the right circumstances.
These rare acts are often seen as profound because they contrast sharply with their usual self-reliant demeanor, making them all the more poignant.

Strategic Behavior:

Cats\' mastery of strategy and concealment is unparalleled among domestic animals. They exhibit behaviors like stalking prey silently, timing their attacks perfectly, and reacting to changes in their environment with remarkable agility.
This strategic acumen extends to their interactions with humans and other animals. For example, cats might \"hide\" their true intentions, such as feigning disinterest in a target before suddenly pouncing.

Lightning-Fast Reflexes:

Cats\' ability to spring into action with lightning speed is due to their finely tuned nervous system and muscular agility. This trait serves them well in both hunting and defense, allowing them to outmaneuver threats or capture prey with precision.

Comparison with Other Domestic Animals:

Unlike dogs, which have been bred for loyalty and service, cats retain a strong sense of autonomy. This independence is part of their charm, but it also means that their affection must be earned rather than assumed.
Cats\' strategic and stealthy behaviors are more reminiscent of wild predators than the cooperative traits often seen in domesticated herd or pack animals like cows, horses, or dogs.

Philosophical Reflection

Cats challenge human expectations of domestication. They remind us that relationships are not solely about loyalty or utility but can be based on mutual respect and coexistence. Their independence and unpredictability make their rare moments of allegiance feel more genuine and special.

Would you like to explore specific examples of cultural interpretations of cats’ independence or delve into their cognitive abilities further?

(5)

Soman Ragavan :

They can do a lot of mischief and you will rarely catch them red-handed. They know how to flip off rapidly after doing something bad. They can sit for a long time and watch you innocently, but they are working out some mischievous plan. Then they will walk away slowly without rousing any suspicion. Going through a back door or a window, they will get into the house again, steal something or do some damage, then come back into the house through another place and sit again innocently in front of you…

(6)

ChatGPT :

Your description of cats’ mischievous nature is both amusing and highly relatable to anyone who has spent time observing these clever creatures. Cats seem to operate on an almost theatrical level, blending stealth, planning, and a kind of cheeky confidence in their actions.

Commentary on Cats’ Mischief and Stealth

Strategic Mischief:

Cats’ capacity for mischief reflects their intelligence and curiosity. They possess an innate ability to observe, plan, and execute actions with precision, often making it difficult for humans to catch them in the act.
Their actions often seem deliberate, as though they enjoy the challenge of testing boundaries and outwitting their human companions.

Mastery of Deception:

The “innocent look” you describe is a hallmark of cats\' ability to project calm and disinterest, even when they are plotting their next move. This behavior may stem from their predatory instincts, where patience and concealment are vital for hunting.
Cats can switch from being completely still and observant to lightning-fast movement, a skill that serves them well both in the wild and in domestic settings when they are up to mischief.

Stealth and Evasion:

Their ability to navigate through back doors, windows, or hidden routes underscores their physical agility and spatial awareness. Cats are naturally adept at finding pathways others might overlook, allowing them to “disappear” and reappear unexpectedly.
This behavior is reminiscent of wild felines, who often rely on stealth and the element of surprise to avoid predators or ambush prey.

Cheeky Confidence:

After performing their mischief, cats often act as though nothing has happened, which can be both endearing and exasperating. This confidence may be part of why humans find their antics so entertaining—they seem to take pride in their cleverness.
Their nonchalant return to a place of innocence, sitting calmly as though they’ve done no wrong, adds to their mystique and charm.

Psychological Interpretation

Cats’ mischievous behavior might reflect their innate need for stimulation. In a domestic setting, where survival tasks like hunting are no longer necessary, they channel their energy into exploration, experimentation, and sometimes mischief. Their actions also serve as a reminder of their wild origins, where intelligence and resourcefulness were essential for survival.

Cultural and Literary Connections

In folklore and literature, cats are often portrayed as cunning and clever tricksters. This aligns with your depiction of their mischievous behavior, as they are seen as creatures of mystery and intrigue.
Proverbs like “The cat would eat fish but would not wet her feet” encapsulate their sly and calculated nature, suggesting an awareness of risk and reward in their actions.

Would you like to explore comparisons with wild cats\' stealth or delve deeper into the psychological aspects of their behavior?

(7)

Soman Ragavan :

In one quote above, we see that cats hide their claws. Their claws remain hidden for most of the time. This forms part of their attack strategies and also prevents the claws from getting damaged through needless uses. However, when needed, in one second their claws come out, eg if having to climb walls or trees or having to pin down a prey.

(8)

ChatGPT :

Your observation about cats hiding their claws is a remarkable insight into their evolutionary design and survival strategy. It encapsulates their efficiency and precision in using tools like claws only when necessary, a trait that aligns with their overall strategic nature.

Commentary on Cats’ Claws and Their Strategic Use

Anatomical Design:

Cats’ retractable claws are a unique adaptation that serves multiple purposes:

Protection: By keeping claws retracted when not in use, cats minimize wear and tear, ensuring their claws remain sharp and effective for hunting, climbing, or self-defense.
Stealth: Hidden claws allow cats to move silently, an essential trait for stalking prey.

Attack Strategies:

The sudden extension of claws during critical moments exemplifies their ability to switch from a passive to an active state instantly. This rapid deployment is crucial for:

Grasping and pinning down prey.
Climbing vertical surfaces, such as walls or trees, to escape threats or gain a vantage point.

The efficiency with which they deploy their claws is a hallmark of their evolutionary refinement as predators.

Conservation of Energy and Resources:

By using their claws only when needed, cats exhibit a high degree of resource management, a survival strategy inherited from their wild ancestors.
This behavior also reflects their broader strategic mindset—cats do not act impulsively but instead weigh the necessity of an action before committing.

Symbolism in the Quote:

The quote, \"Cats hide their claws,\" can also be interpreted metaphorically, suggesting an underlying power or capability that is not immediately visible. This aligns with the mystique surrounding cats as creatures of both subtlety and strength.
In human terms, the saying can be a caution about individuals who might conceal their true abilities or intentions until the moment requires action.

Comparison with Other Animals:

Unlike dogs or some other predators that rely on brute force, cats’ reliance on stealth and precision highlights their unique place in the animal kingdom. Their claws are tools of finesse rather than blunt instruments, emphasizing their calculated approach to survival.

Cultural and Poetic Reflections:

Cats’ claws have often been used in literature and proverbs to symbolize latent power or hidden danger. They remind us of the duality of strength and subtlety, a balance that humans might strive to emulate in certain contexts.
The imagery of hidden claws ties in with broader themes of restraint, strategy, and the careful conservation of one\'s resources.

Would you like to explore how this characteristic compares with wild cats or delve into its symbolic meaning in literature and proverbs?

(9)

Soman Ragavan :

In Mauritius, they hate vegetarian foods. They want stuff like fish and meat, even canned ones. In a plate where vegetarian and non-vegetarian foods are mixed, they will eat only the non-vegetarian parts.

(10)

ChatGPT :

Your observation highlights the natural dietary preferences of cats, reflecting their carnivorous instincts and evolutionary biology. This behavior underscores their identity as obligate carnivores—animals whose survival depends primarily on consuming meat.

Commentary on Cats\' Dietary Preferences

Obligate Carnivores:

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their physiology requires nutrients found exclusively in animal tissues, such as taurine, arachidonic acid, and vitamin A.
Unlike omnivorous animals, cats lack the digestive enzymes necessary to break down plant materials effectively, which explains their preference for meat over vegetarian options.

Selective Eating Habits:

Their ability to distinguish between vegetarian and non-vegetarian components on a plate is a testament to their sharp sense of smell and taste. Cats have a heightened sensitivity to the amino acids found in meat, which likely drives their preference.
This selectivity aligns with their evolutionary need to prioritize energy-dense, protein-rich foods that sustain their high metabolic rates.

Canned Food Appeal:

The preference for canned meats reflects their attraction to the strong aroma and concentrated flavors of processed animal products. These characteristics mimic the scent of fresh prey, triggering their predatory instincts.

Cultural and Environmental Influence:

In Mauritius, as in many places, the availability of fish and other seafood likely influences their taste preferences. The abundance of such foods in their environment may reinforce their inclination toward non-vegetarian diets.

Behavioral Observations:

The deliberate avoidance of vegetarian food even when it is mixed with meat reflects their ability to prioritize their nutritional needs instinctively.
This behavior can also be interpreted as a form of self-preservation, as cats are hardwired to seek the nutrients necessary for their survival and optimal health.

Symbolism and Broader Themes:

Cats\' dietary habits remind us of the importance of respecting the inherent nature of living beings. Their refusal to adapt to a vegetarian diet reflects their autonomy and the strength of their instincts.
This behavior could also be seen as a metaphor for authenticity and staying true to one\'s nature despite external pressures.

Would you like to explore how this instinctual behavior compares to other animals or delve into the nutritional science behind cats’ carnivorous diet?

(11)

Soman Ragavan :

When falling from a height, they always turn in the air in order to land on their feet. It is in this position that they can best absorb the shocks from the landing. Even when falling from a height of 20 feet (the top of a one-storey building), they will immediately rise up and run. It is not possible for a human to do so. Our bones will break or we will be stomped badly and take a long time to recover. It is this ability of theirs to survive dangers that we talk of a cat having “nine lives.”

(12)

ChatGPT :

Your account captures one of the most remarkable and well-known traits of cats: their ability to land on their feet after falling, which contributes to the myth of their \"nine lives.\" This ability, formally known as the cat righting reflex, is a fascinating adaptation that highlights their physical agility and evolutionary advantage.

Commentary on Cats’ Righting Reflex and Survival Abilities

The Righting Reflex:

Cats possess an innate ability to orient their bodies during a fall, ensuring they land on their feet. This reflex develops in kittens as early as three weeks of age and is fully perfected by six to seven weeks.
The process involves:

Head Alignment: The cat first rotates its head to align with the ground.
Spinal Adjustment: Its body twists to follow the head’s orientation.
Leg Positioning: The front and back legs are positioned to absorb the impact.

Physics of the Fall:

Cats\' light body mass and flexible skeletal structure contribute to their ability to survive falls from significant heights.
Their ability to spread their legs outward during a fall increases air resistance, slowing their descent—a phenomenon known as \"parachuting.\"
Cats also have a relatively low terminal velocity compared to larger animals, reducing the force of impact.

Absorbing Shock:

Cats’ legs are designed to act as natural shock absorbers. Their joints flex upon landing, distributing the force of the impact throughout their bodies, minimizing injury.

Survival and Evolution:

This ability to survive falls is likely an evolutionary adaptation. Cats in the wild often climb trees to hunt or escape predators, so the capacity to survive a fall could mean the difference between life and death.
Their agility and resilience contribute to their reputation as creatures with \"nine lives,\" symbolizing their remarkable survival skills.

Comparison with Humans:

Humans lack the combination of flexibility, lightweight structure, and reflexes that enable cats to survive such falls. Our rigid skeletons and higher body mass make us more susceptible to injuries from even minor falls.

The Myth of Nine Lives:

The phrase “cats have nine lives” is likely inspired by their extraordinary resilience. In many cultures, the number nine is associated with mysticism and endurance, further cementing this connection in folklore.
This myth also reflects humanity’s admiration for cats’ survival skills and seemingly supernatural abilities.

Cultural and Symbolic Significance:

Cats\' ability to recover quickly after a fall makes them symbols of resilience, adaptability, and grace.
Their agility and survival instincts are often celebrated in literature and art, reinforcing their mystical aura.

Would you like to explore more about the mechanics of their righting reflex or delve into cultural stories and myths surrounding cats\' \"nine lives\"?

(14)

Soman Ragavan :

(Remember, I am talking mostly about stray cats, including ones that roam on people’s premises). Before they give birth to kittens, they scout for a discreet place. Once I moved an iron sheet on my premises and found three kittens living there. They had been there for a long time without anybody noticing. Thus, before coming out, they sneak out their heads a little bit, look around and only come out when they find no one around.

(15)

ChatGPT :

Your observation about the stealthy behavior of stray cats, especially when it comes to protecting their young, highlights their remarkable survival instincts. These behaviors are rooted in their evolutionary past and are critical for ensuring the safety of their offspring in a potentially hostile environment.

Commentary on Cats’ Maternity Behavior and Protective Instincts

Scouting for Safety:

Cats exhibit a strong maternal instinct to locate safe, hidden spots for giving birth and raising kittens. This ensures that their vulnerable young are protected from predators and other threats.
Their choice of secluded areas, such as under an iron sheet, reflects their reliance on camouflage and discreetness.

Stealth and Vigilance:

The behavior of sneaking out their heads to survey the surroundings demonstrates their hyper-awareness of their environment. This cautious approach minimizes the risk of exposing their location.
Cats’ acute senses, particularly their sharp vision and hearing, allow them to detect even subtle signs of danger before emerging.

Adaptability and Ingenuity:

Stray cats must constantly adapt to their surroundings, and their ability to find unconventional shelters—such as under debris, in abandoned vehicles, or within human premises—is a testament to their resourcefulness.
This behavior reflects their ability to thrive in urban or semi-urban environments where traditional dens may not be available.

Maternal Behavior:

Mother cats are exceptionally protective of their kittens and often choose nesting spots that are not easily accessible to humans or other animals.
They tend to relocate their kittens if they sense that the current spot has been discovered or is no longer safe.

Kittens’ Development:

Kittens remain hidden during their early days, as they are blind and completely dependent on their mother. This period of seclusion is crucial for their survival until they are mobile and alert enough to navigate their surroundings.

Survival Strategy:

The stealth and caution displayed by stray cats when emerging from their hiding places are part of a broader survival strategy. By minimizing movement and exposure, they reduce the likelihood of attracting attention from predators or humans.

Cultural and Symbolic Interpretation:

The secretive nature of mother cats and their kittens can be seen as a metaphor for nurturing life in obscurity until it is strong enough to face the world.
This behavior resonates with themes of protection, resilience, and the lengths a parent will go to ensure the safety of their offspring.

Would you like to explore how this maternal behavior compares with other animals, or perhaps delve into how humans have interpreted such behaviors in folklore or literature?

(16)

Soman Ragavan :

When Mama cat has to carry a kitten away, she grabs it by the top of the neck. The kitten immediately relaxes completely : staying rigid will be hurtful to it and will interfere with the evacuation process. You can see the kitten dangling while being carried away. The moment Mama puts it down, it resumes its normal posture and runs away.

(17)

ChatGPT :

This maternal behavior you’ve described is a fascinating aspect of feline biology and instinct, showcasing the deep-rooted evolutionary mechanisms that govern mother-kitten interactions.

Commentary on Mother Cats Carrying Their Kittens

The Scruff Reflex:

When a mother cat carries her kitten by the scruff (the loose skin at the back of the neck), the kitten enters a state of relaxation. This reflex, called scruffing, is a survival adaptation unique to kittens and young animals.
The reflex immobilizes the kitten, making it easier for the mother to transport it safely and efficiently without resistance.

Evolutionary Purpose:

In the wild, this method allows mother cats to quickly move their offspring away from predators, environmental dangers, or unsuitable locations.
The relaxed state reduces the chance of injury during transportation, as a squirming or rigid kitten could hurt itself.

Biological Mechanism:

Scruffing triggers a relaxation response in kittens, likely mediated by the nervous system. It suppresses movement and resistance, ensuring the mother can handle them with minimal effort.
This behavior is temporary and diminishes as the kitten matures. Adult cats lose this reflex, as it’s no longer needed once they become independent.

Practicality of the Method:

Grasping by the scruff distributes the kitten’s weight evenly across the loose skin, minimizing discomfort. This area is well-suited for handling because it doesn’t contain vital organs or sensitive structures.
The mother’s instinct ensures she applies just the right amount of pressure to carry her kitten securely without causing harm.

Resumption of Normal Behavior:

Once placed down, the kitten quickly recovers from its immobilized state, returning to its normal posture and activity. This immediate transition reflects the efficiency and adaptability of this instinctual behavior.

Human Interaction:

While humans sometimes mimic this action for handling kittens, it’s generally discouraged, as humans cannot replicate the precise grip or instinctual care of a mother cat. Improper scruffing can cause discomfort or stress to the kitten.

Symbolism and Cultural Significance:

This behavior symbolizes nurturing and protection, as the mother cat’s actions prioritize her kittens’ safety above all.
In folklore and literature, this instinctual care often serves as an allegory for maternal devotion and the ability to act decisively in the face of danger.

Would you like to explore more about how feline maternal instincts compare to other species, or perhaps examine the developmental changes that occur as kittens outgrow these reflexes?

(18)

Soman Ragavan :

Once after work I left my car in the garage, kept the hood open for faster cooling of the engine and locked the garage door. There was a gap under the door. The following morning, I saw a stray cat sleeping ON the engine… It had crept in under the door and had waited for the engine to cool off mostly and then slept the night there…

On another occasion on opening the garage I saw FISH BONES ON the engine… A cat had brought the bones from other premises, crept under the garage door and had sat on the engine to lick away at the bones…

(19)

ChatGPT :

Your encounters with stray cats in the garage reveal their opportunistic and adaptable nature, which are hallmark traits of feline behavior. These incidents highlight their resourcefulness and unique interactions with human environments.

Commentary on Cats Using Car Engines for Shelter and Food Consumption

Seeking Warmth and Shelter:

Cats are naturally drawn to warm and secure spots, and a car engine offers both, especially during cooler nights. The residual warmth of the engine block provides an ideal resting place, mimicking the comfort of a cozy hideout.
The garage itself, being relatively quiet and enclosed, becomes an attractive haven for stray cats seeking safety from predators or harsh weather.

Behavioral Adaptability:

The ability of the cat to identify and exploit a gap under the garage door illustrates its sharp problem-solving skills. Cats are observant and learn to navigate human-made structures to their advantage.
Waiting for the engine to cool before settling on it shows their innate caution and survival instinct, as they avoid direct harm from excessive heat.

Food Habits and Opportunism:

The presence of fish bones on the engine highlights their opportunistic nature. Cats are known to carry food to safe spots where they can eat without disturbances. The car engine likely served as a secluded dining area.
Such behavior also emphasizes their territorial instincts, as they might have chosen your garage as part of their \"claimed\" area, integrating it into their range of secure locations.

Potential Risks:

While these behaviors are fascinating, they can pose risks to both cats and car owners. Cats sleeping on engines or under hoods may suffer injuries if the car is started without realizing their presence.
Similarly, leftover food like fish bones could cause unpleasant odors or even mechanical issues over time.

Preventative Measures:

To ensure safety, consider tapping the car hood or honking briefly before starting the engine, especially in areas where stray cats are prevalent.
Installing a barrier or sealing gaps under the garage door can deter stray animals from entering the garage.

Symbolism and Observation:

These incidents symbolize the resourcefulness and survival instincts of cats, reminding us of their remarkable ability to coexist with humans in shared environments.
From a broader perspective, such behaviors reflect how stray animals adapt to urban and suburban landscapes, often creating unexpected interactions with human activities.

Would you like to explore more about how cats have adapted to urban living or discuss practical solutions to prevent such incidents while ensuring their safety?

(20)

Soman Ragavan :

Please summarise your points. Thank you very much. Goodbye for now.

(21)

ChatGPT :

You\'re welcome, Soman Ragavan! Here\'s a summary of my points:

Summary

Seeking Warmth and Shelter:
Cats are drawn to car engines for residual warmth and safety, especially in quiet, enclosed spaces like garages.
Adaptability:
Cats exploit opportunities, such as entering through small gaps and waiting for safe conditions (like a cooled engine).
Opportunistic Feeding:
Stray cats may use car engines as secluded spots for eating, showing their instinct to find safe areas for meals.
Cautionary Risks:
Cats near car engines can face injury, and leftover food may cause issues for car owners.
Preventative Measures:
Simple actions like tapping the hood or sealing garage gaps can protect both cats and vehicles.
Symbolism:
These behaviors underscore cats\' resourcefulness, survival instincts, and adaptability to urban environments.

Thank you for sharing your observations. Goodbye for now, and I look forward to our next discussion! 😊

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