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APC > Construction technology and environmental services > Flashcards

Construction technology and environmental services Flashcards

1
Q

What insights did you gain during your university studies in construction?

A

During my university studies, I gained insights into construction methods and materials, understanding their implications on project time, cost, and quality.

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2
Q

Can you identify the primary structural frame types you are acquainted with?

A

I am acquainted with primary structural frame types such as steel and concrete, as well as alternative options like precast concrete and timber.

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3
Q

What are the key features of a structural concrete frame ?

A

A concrete frame is a common form of structure, comprising a network of columns and connecting beams that forms the structural ‘skeleton’ of a building. This grid of beams and columns is typically constructed on a concrete foundation

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4
Q

What are the key features of a structural steel frame ?

A

The characteristics of steel are high strength, light weight, good overall rigidity and strong deformation ability, so it is especially suitable for the construction of large-span, super-high and super-heavy buildings.

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5
Q

What are the key features of a structural precast concrete frame ?

A

Precast concrete frames are typically used for single-storey and low-rise structures. The concrete members are transported to site where a crane then lifts and places them into position to construct the frame:

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6
Q

What are the key features of a structural timber frame ?

A

Timber Frame Construction utilises wooden frames as the primary structural support, consisting of vertical posts (columns) and horizontal beams. Wall panels provide additional support to create a sturdy framework.

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7
Q

How have you broadened your knowledge of construction technology in commercial fit-outs?

A

In commercial fit-outs, I’ve expanded my knowledge, particularly focusing on temperature control systems in offices.

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8
Q

Give me an example of a temperature control system in office

A

FINDDD

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9
Q

The advantages of a good indoor climate at work

A
  1. Health
  2. Productivity
  3. Absence
  4. Sustainability
  5. Costs
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10
Q

How is health benefited with a good indoor climate at work ?

A

Clean air, sufficient air exchange, the right air humidity, and the ideal office temperature can prevent allergies and complaints relating to ‘sick building syndrome’.

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11
Q

How is productivity benefited with a good indoor climate at work ?

A

If someone feels comfortable in their work environment, they perform better.

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12
Q

How is absence benefited with a good indoor climate at work ?

A

If people work in a healthy workplace, they seldom fall ill.

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13
Q

How is sustainability benefited with a good indoor climate at work ?

A

It helps create a healthy and optimal indoor climate at the office while ensuring conservation of energy and improved energy performance.

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14
Q

How is cost benefited with a good indoor climate at work ?

A

Thanks to modern building management systems and climate control technology, healthy buildings save 30-40% on average on their energy consumption costs.

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15
Q

What is your understanding of the RIBA design process?

A

I grasp the RIBA design process, which involves several stages from conception to completion, ensuring a systematic approach to architectural design and construction.

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16
Q

What does RIBA stand for?

A

Royal Institute of British Architects

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17
Q

How many RIBA plan of work stages are there?

A

7

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18
Q

What year is the RIBS Plan of work?

A

2020

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19
Q

What is RIBA stage 0?

A

Strategic definition

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20
Q

What is RIBA stage 1?

A

Preparation and Briefing

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21
Q

What is RIBA stage 2?

A

Concept Design

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22
Q

What is RIBA stage 3?

A

Spatial Coordination

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23
Q

What is RIBA stage 4?

A

Technical Design

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24
Q

What is RIBA stage 5?

A

Manufacturing and Construction

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25
Q

What is RIBA stage 6?

A

Handover

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26
Q

What is RIBA stage 7?

A

Use

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27
Q

What is the stage outcome of stage 0?

A

The best means of achieving
the Client Requirements
confirmed

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28
Q

What is the stage outcome of stage 1?

A

Project Brief approved by the
client and confirmed that it
can be accommodated on
the site

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29
Q

What is the stage outcome of stage 2?

A

Architectural Concept
approved by the client and
aligned to the Project Brie

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30
Q

What is the stage outcome of stage 3?

A

Architectural and engineering
information Spatially
Coordinated

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31
Q

What is the stage outcome of stage 4?

A

All design information
required to manufacture
and construct the project
completed

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32
Q

What is the stage outcome of 5?

A

Manufacturing, construction
and Commissioning
completed

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33
Q

What is the stage outcome of stage 6?

A

Building handed over,
Aftercare initiated and
Building Contract concluded

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34
Q

What is the stage outcome of stage 7?

A

Building used, operated and
maintained efficiently

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35
Q

Why was the RIBA Plan of Work initiated?

A

To provide a framework for architects to
use on projects with their clients, bringing greater clarity to the different stages of a
project.

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36
Q

What do building regulations help ensure?

A

that new buildings, conversions, renovations and extensions (domestic or commercial) are going to be safe, healthy and high-performing.

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37
Q

What topics do building regulations cover?

A

structural integrity, fire protection, accessibility, energy performance, acoustic performance, protection against falls, electrical and gas safety.

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38
Q

What building regulation do you regularly deal with in office fit out ?

A

fire protection and acoustics

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39
Q

What are the Building Regulations?

A
  • Statutory instruments that set out the minimum performance standards for the design and construction of buildings.
  • Supported by the Approved Documents and other codes of practice.
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40
Q

What is the external envelope?

A

The materials and components that form the external shell or enclosure of a building.

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41
Q

What is substructure?

A

All elements of work that are undertaken below the damp proof course that provides the basis for the superstructure to be constructed upon.

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42
Q

What are British Standards?

A
  • Publications issued by the British Standards Institution prefixed BS.
  • They give recommended minimum standards for materials, components, design and construction
    practices.
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43
Q

What are international standards?

A
  • Publications issued by the International Organisation for Standardisation – prefixed ISO
  • They are compatible with and complement the British Standards.
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44
Q

What is superstructure?

A
  • All internal and external works items above the damp proof course.
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45
Q

What is superstructure made up of?

A

This is made up of:
o External walls.
o Stairs.
o Roof.
o Structural walls.
o Suspended ceilings.
o Raised floors.

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46
Q

What are the typical components of site investigations?

A

Their objective is to collect and record data to help with the design and construction process. This
should include matters in relation to the site that may impact the development

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47
Q

What matters on the site may impact a development ?

A

o Boundary hedges & fencing.
o Existing trees.
o Existing buildings.
o Ground water conditions.
o Soil investigations.

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48
Q

What is the purpose of soil investigations?

A
  • Their purpose is to determine the suitability of the site for the proposed works and determine adequate and economic foundation design.
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49
Q

What is a retained façade?

A

The facade of the building is retained whilst everything behind the front wall is demolished.

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50
Q

What are the main site considerations?

A
  • Access considerations.
  • Storage considerations.
  • Accommodation.
  • Temporary services.
  • Plant.
  • Fencing & hoarding.
  • Health & Safety risks.
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51
Q

What needs to be allowed for

A

Allowances needs to be made for a temporary support structure and also cleaning & restoration works
to the retained façade.

52
Q

What is one reason a client would be required to retain their façade ?

A

Retained facades are often required as a result of listed building requirements.

53
Q

What are temporary works?

A

Temporary works are construction elements not typically depicted on construction drawings.

54
Q

When are temporary works necessary?

A

They may be required based on the construction methodology being used.

55
Q

Can you provide an example of temporary works related to health and safety?

A

Temporary works may include measures like temporary propping to ensure safe construction methods.

56
Q

What is a scaffold?

A
  • A scaffold is a temporary working platform erected around a building or structure.
  • It provides a safe working place at a convenient height.
57
Q

When is scaffold typically required?

A

Scaffold is usually required for work occurring 1.5 meters above ground level.

58
Q

What is shoring?

A

Shoring is a form of temporary support given to existing buildings.

59
Q

What are the main components of concrete?

A
  • Cement.
  • Aggregate (natural rock, crushed stone, gravel).
  • Water.
60
Q

What are retaining walls?

A

They act as an earth retaining structure for the whole or part of their heights.

They are used to support and retain soils laterally

61
Q

What are the technical advantages of steel frames?

A
  • Steel frames are often quicker to assemble in comparison to alternative methods.
  • They are 100% recyclable and inorganic meaning they will not warp, split, crack or creep.
  • They offer the highest strength to weight ratio of any building material.
  • Steel frames are not vulnerable to termites or any type of fungi or organism.
62
Q

What are the technical disadvantages of steel frames?

A
  • Steel frames require fire protection to be retrospectively installed.
  • Fixing components may require replacement over time.
  • The price of steel often fluctuates and can result in a lack of cost certainty.
  • Installation of steel frames requires experienced builders at an additional cost
63
Q

What are the technical advantages of concrete frames?

A
  • Fire protection is often provided inherently as part of the structure.
  • Due to offering a slower form of construction = reduced cash flow expenditure early on in the development.
  • Maintenance requirements associated with concrete frames are relatively low in comparison
  • Concrete frames often provide good sound and heat insulation properties in comparison to steel
64
Q

What are the technical disadvantages of concrete frames?

A
  • In comparison to steel frames, they are more time consuming to install.
  • There may also be complications during the install resulting from weather conditions
  • Concrete frames are often heavier and require larger foundations.
65
Q

What are the common components you would expect to see within a

A
  • Beams.
  • Columns.
  • Purlins.
  • Rafters.
    Eaves.
  • Eaves Haunch.
  • Base Plate.
  • Apex Haunch.
  • Cladding Rails.
  • Cross bracings.
  • Fixings.
66
Q

What are the common components you would expect to see within an
external wall / foundation detail?

A
  • Strip foundation.
  • Concrete block foundation wall.
  • Rebar reinforcement.
  • Damp Proof Course.
  • Air bricks.
  • Suspended floor slab or ground floor slab
  • Backfilling.
  • Drainage.
67
Q

What are the different parts of a steel beam?

A

o Flange - top and bottom of the vertical steel.

o Web - which is the vertical steel part of the I beam.

o Root - where the flange and the web join.

68
Q

What is powder coating?

A
  • A durable factory applied coating on metals
  • This application is sprayed on and is followed by heat curing to give a film thickness of 50 to 100
    microns.
  • Any holes and cutting should be carried out before the coating is applied.
69
Q

What is intumescent paint?

A
  • Fire Resistant paint that is sprayed on in the factory and touched up on site
  • It works by stopping oxygen from reaching the surface of the material
70
Q

What is an upstand?

A
  • A vertical strip or skirting, such as the weatherproofing where roofing meets an abutment wall.
71
Q

What is post tensioned concrete?

A
  • In post-tensioning, concrete is cast around ducts or sheathing in which the tendons are to be housed.
  • Stressing is carried out after the concrete has cured by means of hydraulic jacks operating from one of both ends of the member.
72
Q

What is formwork?

A
  • Anything that holds fresh in-situ concrete in place until it hardens, such as plywood shutters, steel pan
    forms, fibreglass moulds or profiled decking.
73
Q

What is slip forming?

A
  • A method for constructing a repetitive structure such as a core, lift shaft or stairwell.
74
Q

What is jump forming?

A
  • Jump forming is where a significant height of concrete is cast and left to cure.
  • It works in a similar principle to slip forming but is slower and cheaper in process terms.
75
Q

What is the size of a brick?

A
  • Standard bricks are 215mm x 102.5mm x 65mm.
75
Q

What are the different types of brick bond?

A
  • Stretcher – most commonly used with walls just a half brick wide.
  • English – with alternating courses of headers and stretchers.
76
Q

How many bricks are in a m2?

A
  • There are about 60 bricks per m2.
77
Q

What is an air brick?

A
  • A perforated brick to allow for ventilation into a room or an underfloor space.
78
Q

What are the factors that might affect the choice materials for internal partitions?

A
  • Fire rating requirements.
  • Restriction for noise (Db ratings).
  • Visuals – Opacity vs. transparency.
  • Fixed or movable.
  • Strength requirements.
79
Q

What are the different types of screed?

A
  • Bonded Screeds
  • Unbonded Screeds
  • Floating Screed
  • Resin Bonded
80
Q

What items would you expect to find on a timber or part glazed door
that was required to have a half-hour fire rating?

A
  • 3 hinges.
  • Intumescent strip on door or edge of frame.
  • A self-closing devise.
81
Q

What is the purpose of a threshold strip?

A
  • They prevent fraying and provide an aesthetic finish which also interrupt combustible flooring under fire doors.
82
Q

What is an MF ceiling?

A
  • The abbreviation MF commonly refers to a Mineral Fibre plasterboard suspended ceiling.
83
Q

what are the benefits of a metal grid ceiling?

A
  • These are normally quicker to construct than alternative options and allow for service runs through
    void above therefore allowing greater floor to ceiling height. They also offer easy access for service
    repairs.
83
Q

What is a metal grid ceiling

A
  • This is a suspended ceiling system formed by a square grid
84
Q

What are rolled carpets?

A

Rolled carpets generally offer better quality and are more expensive.

Rolled carpet is commonly used in
dwellings.

85
Q

What are carpet tiles?

A

Carpet tiles are harder wearing and are often cheaper.

Individual tiles can be replaced therefore they are easier to maintain.

Carpet tiles are commonly used in offices and hospitals.

They are also used where
raised access flooring systems adopted to allow for easier access to services that run in the void below.

86
Q

What is top down construction?

A

“Top down” is used to speed up the construction process of a building with basement levels.

It allows the building
above to be constructed at the same time as the basement.

87
Q

What is the process of top down construction?

A
  • The ground floor slab is cast with an access hatch.
  • The ground below is excavated and another slab is formed.
    If there is another level, the process is repeated.

Piles are usually used as foundations and also act as retaining walls.

87
Q

Whats cheaper three phase or single phase electricity?

A

Three phase electricity is cheaper and an easier way to transmit electricity compared to single phase
electricity.

88
Q

What is bottom up construction?

A

forms the basement and then works upwards in a traditional manner.

This offers a simpler construction than top down methods of construction but will often carry a longer programme duration.

89
Q

What is a three phase electrical supply?

A

A three phase supply is an AC (Alternating Current) supply that consists of three AC voltages 120
degrees out of phase with each other.

90
Q

What is the first step in distributing power to floor boxes in a raised floor?

A

The incoming power supply connects to a low voltage switchboard.

90
Q

After the low voltage switchboard, where does the power go next in a raised floor system?

A

It connects to a distribution board.

91
Q

What component connects to the distribution board in a raised floor power distribution system?

A

An under floor busbar.

91
Q

How does the floor box connect to the busbar in a raised floor system?

A

The floor box plugs into the busbar via a flexible lead.

91
Q

What feature does the floor box provide for appliances in a raised floor system?

A

The floor box has sockets to which appliances can plug into.

92
Q

What is Cat II lighting?

A

Cat II Lighting are light fittings suitable for use with VDU screens.

93
Q

What are the different types of lifts ?

A
  • Passenger Lifts
  • Residential lifts
  • Platform Lifts
  • Freight Lifts
  • Dumbwaiter
94
Q

What fire safety provisions would you expect to find in an office
block?

A
  • Maximum occupancy listings.
  • Fire
  • Placing fire extinguishers and fire alarms in easily accessible places.
    Restricted use of flammable materials.
  • Installing fire alarm control panels
95
Q

What are automatic fire sprinklers?

A
  • Automatic fire sprinklers are individually heat-activated and tied into a network of piping with water
    under pressure.
96
Q

Where are fire barriers installed in a suspended ceiling system?

A

Between the soffit of the floor above and the suspended ceiling.

97
Q

What is the purpose of installing fire barriers in the ceiling void?

A

To compartmentalize the ceiling void.

98
Q

What additional consideration is important besides fire barriers in a suspended ceiling?

A

Whether smoke stops are also required.

99
Q

What must be done when services pass through fire barriers in a suspended ceiling?

A

The services must be sealed to prevent fire from spreading through the service gap.

100
Q

What is a UPS

A

An uninterruptible power supply,
is a device or system that maintains a continuous supply of
electric power to certain essential equipment that must not be shut down unexpectedly.

101
Q

why does a building require UPS?

A

Typically, it is installed in hospitals for life critical equipment and in businesses for business-critical
equipment.

102
Q

Why do we install generators in buildings?

A

Generators are normally installed in buildings to act as a backup power supply should the primary
power supply fail.

103
Q

What does the abbreviations FCU stand for?

A

Fan Coil Unit (FCU).

104
Q

What does the abbreviations AHU stand for?

A

Air Handling Unit (AHU).

105
Q

What does the abbreviations VAV stand for?

A

Variable Air Volume System (VAV).

106
Q

What type of building work is covered by the Building regulations?

A
  • The Erection or extension of a building.
  • Installation or extension of a service that is controlled by the regulations.
  • Alteration projects which will temporarily or permanently affect the building in terms of structure, fire & access.
  • Insertion of insulation into cavity walls.
  • Underpinning building foundations.
107
Q

Please tell us 4 areas covered by the Building Regulations?

A

B) Fire Safety.

108
Q

How many specific areas are covered by the building regulations ?

A

14

109
Q

What do the Building Regulations Approved Documents provide?

A

General guidance on the performance of materials expected to comply with the functional requirements of the building regulations and practical examples.

110
Q

Is there an obligation to adopt specific solutions in the Building Regulations Approved Documents?

A

No, there is no obligation to adopt specific solutions if it is possible to meet requirements via a different means.

111
Q

Who ensures the building regulations are complied with?

A

Building Control Services such as the Local Authority or Approved Inspectors

112
Q

What fire implications have you had to consider on some of your fit-out projects?

A

Adhere to fire safety regulations, use fire-resistant materials, and ensure effective fire alarm systems and emergency exits. Conduct a thorough fire risk assessment.

Fire Safety Requirements: Ensure compliance with fire safety regulations, including fire-resistant materials, fire alarm systems, and emergency exits.

Building Regulations: Adhere to relevant building codes and standards for fire resistance and safety features in fit-out designs.

Risk Assessment: Conduct thorough fire risk assessments to address potential hazards and ensure safety measures are integrated into the fit-out.

113
Q

What reasons would you select a timber frame over a steel frame?

A

Choose timber frames for cost-effectiveness and sustainability in low-rise projects, or steel frames for strength and high-rise needs. Base the decision on budget, environmental goals, and structural requirements.

Cost: Timber frames can be more cost-effective for certain projects compared to steel frames, especially in low-rise buildings.

Sustainability: Timber is a renewable resource, contributing to a more sustainable building approach.

Aesthetics and Speed: Timber can offer a more desirable aesthetic and potentially faster construction time due to prefabrication options.

114
Q

Please give an example of where you have advised a client on cost implications on a number of design options?

A

Provide detailed comparisons of initial, lifecycle, and maintenance costs for different design options to help clients make informed decisions.

Advised a client on options such as high-specification finishes versus standard finishes. Higher-spec finishes increased initial costs but offered better durability and lower maintenance in the long term, impacting the total cost of ownership.

115
Q

How is abestos removed?

A

Process: Asbestos is removed by licensed professionals following strict safety procedures, including sealing off the area, using specialized equipment, and disposing of the material according to regulations.

Documentation: The process and methods used for asbestos removal are documented in site-specific risk assessments and removal reports.

116
Q

Where was the sealing of asbestos documented?

A

Record all details of asbestos sealing methods and safety measures in the asbestos management plan, including clearance certificates.

Documentation: The sealing of asbestos, including any encapsulation methods or interim measures, is documented in the asbestos management plan and final clearance certificates, ensuring compliance with safety standards.

117
Q

What was the issue with the furniture pod and sprinkler heads?

A

Ensure that furniture pods do not obstruct fire safety systems like sprinklers to maintain effective fire protection and compliance.

The design of the furniture pod may have obstructed or interfered with the effective operation of sprinkler heads, potentially compromising fire safety and compliance with regulations.

118
Q

How much does a raised access floor cost? Please describe the construction build-up to a raised access floor.

A

Typically £50 to £150 per square meter. Construction: Includes a grid of pedestals, adjustable panels, and a finished floor covering, providing space for services and future modifications.

119
Q

How did reduced the FR from 120 to 90 maintain compliance and safety standards?

A

The reduction in fire resistance from 120 to 90 minutes must be justified by a detailed fire engineering assessment to ensure that the overall safety standards and compliance requirements are still met, often by demonstrating equivalent safety measures or improved compartmentalization.

APC (20 decks)

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