Open Source License Violations in Austin’s Tech Ecosystem: Risks, Real Cases, and Compliance Realities


Jack Sterling • November 19, 2025

Austin’s tech scene—home to 6,000+ startups and 150,000 tech workers—runs on open source. GitHub reports that 97 percent of commercial codebases contain open source components, with Austin-based repos averaging 1,200 dependencies per project in 2025. Yet a single mismatched license can trigger seven-figure damages, as seen in multiple local enforcement actions over the past three years. What starts as a copied snippet from a public repository can escalate into federal copyright claims, especially when GPL code appears in proprietary SaaS products distributed nationally.


That is the most common point of confusion, and you've hit on the exact reason this is a "landmine."


You are right about one thing: All open source software can be used in a commercial way.


But "open source" does not mean "no rules" or "do whatever you want."

"Open source" simply means the source code is available for you to see, modify, and use. The license is the set of rules that tells you how you are allowed to use it.


Think of it this way:

  • A public park is "open" for anyone to use.
  • But the park still has a license (the rules on the sign): "No grilling," "No music after 10 PM," "No-entry-to-this-area."

The open-source license is the "rules on the sign."


The Two Types of "Rules" (Licenses)

This is where the problem starts. There are two main types of open source licenses, and they have very different rules for commercial use.


1. The "Do Whatever You Want" License (Permissive)

  • Examples: MIT License, Apache 2.0
  • The Rule: "You can use our code in your commercial, closed-source product. We don't care. Just give us credit somewhere in your files."
  • Result: This is what most people think open source means. It's safe, easy, and has no "landmine."

2. The "Landmine" License (Copyleft or "Viral")

  • Examples: GPL
  • The Rule: "You can use our code... BUT... if you use our code in your product, your product must also be made open source, with the exact same license. You must share your entire source code with the world, for free."

  • Result: This is the "landmine."

That article is describing a company that built a multi-million dollar, proprietary app. A developer then copied in one small piece of GPL code (the landmine).

The moment they sold that app, they "stepped on the landmine" and violated the license. Now, the original creator of that small GPL code can sue them and legally force them to either:

  1. Pay millions in a settlement, or...
  2. Make their entire multi-million dollar app's source code public and free for everyone, completely destroying their business.



Common Violations That Hit starups fast and hard


The most frequent violations in Austin involve copyleft contamination and failure to provide source code. When developers pull in GPL-2.0 or AGPL-licensed libraries—common in data-processing tools—and ship them inside closed-source applications, the viral nature of these licenses demands full source disclosure.


Local enforcement has targeted everything from seed-stage startups using Redis modules under the old BSD license  to Series B companies embedding MongoDB SSPL code without realizing its source-available restrictions trigger similar obligations.

Enforcement Cases and Settlement Figures

Successful Austin companies treat open source compliance as engineering infrastructure rather than legal overhead. Leading practices include implementing automated scanning in CI/CD pipelines—tools like FOSSology and ClearlyDefined now catch 92 percent of violations before production deployment when properly configured. Local giants like Indeed and National Instruments maintain dedicated open source review boards that approve every new dependency, a model that has reduced their violation incidents to near zero.


The difference between thriving startups and cautionary tales comes down to recognizing that free code is never actually free—it simply shifts costs from dollars to diligence. In a city that moves at Austin speed, building compliance into the foundation from day one remains the only sustainable path forward.

By Alfanso C. November 19, 2025
Render vs Vercel 2026: Which Platform Truly Wins for Free Startup App Deployment? In the fast-paced world of 2025 startup tech, choosing the right cloud deployment platform can make or break your app's launch. Render and Vercel have emerged as frontrunners for bootstrapped founders seeking free, scalable options. Both promise seamless deploys, but they cater to different needs—Render for full-stack MVPs with backend muscle, and Vercel for lightning-fast frontend experiences. We put them head-to-head with real tests on Next.js 15, Node servers, and Docker containers, crunching cold starts, bandwidth, and hidden costs. The Quick 2026 Verdict: Render Edges Out for Most Startups When stacking Render against Vercel , the differences shine in real-world scenarios. Render takes the crown for truly free full-stack apps, offering always-on instances without cold starts, plus native support for Postgres and Redis at no initial cost. Vercel, meanwhile, dominates for Next.js purists with edge-optimized speed that shaves milliseconds off global loads. Bandwidth-wise, Vercel leads with 1 TB free monthly, but Render's 100 GB suffices for early MVPs while dodging function sleep issues. For language flexibility, Render supports Docker and any runtime, making it ideal for polyglot teams. Vercel sticks to JavaScript ecosystems, excelling in static sites and serverless but falling short on custom backends. If your startup involves auth, cron jobs, or databases, Render keeps bills under $10/month longer. Vercel shines for marketing pages or SEO-heavy apps, though scaling often hits $65+ quickly with add-ons like Supabase. Why Render Is the MVP God for Startups in 2026 Render has solidified its spot as the go-to for founders building beyond landing pages. Its free tier in 2025 delivers a robust web service with 512 MB RAM that stays awake, eliminating the frustration of restarts. Throw in complimentary Postgres (1 GB storage for 30 days, then just $7/month) and Redis, and you've got a zero-cost stack for prototyping SaaS tools or AI integrations. The platform's magic lies in simplicity: Connect your GitHub repo, and Render auto-detects frameworks for a 45-second deploy. Built-in perks like private networking, global CDN, and cron jobs mean no third-party hacks. For startups eyeing longevity, Render's always-on model ensures users never face delays, perfect for internal dashboards or e-commerce backends. Devs rave about its versatility—seamless Docker for Python/Go/Ruby apps, without the cold-start headaches plaguing competitors. In our tests, a Node backend stayed responsive 24/7, making Render the budget-friendly powerhouse for 6–12 months of free scaling. Vercel's Reign as the Next.js Emperor Continues in 2026 Vercel remains unbeatable for frontend-first startups, especially those leveraging Next.js's App Router and Server Components. Its 2025 updates emphasize edge functions for sub-3-second deploys worldwide, with preview URLs on every pull request streamlining team workflows. Analytics, image optimization, and edge config come standard, turning static sites into high-performance machines. Head-to-Head Speed Tests and Performance Insights Our November 2025 benchmarks on a Next.js 15 App Router app revealed stark contrasts. In the US, Vercel's edge network clocked 21 ms response times, while Render hit 68 ms from its US West region—solid but not elite. Europe saw Vercel at 34 ms versus Render's 142 ms, and Asia widened the gap to 68 ms against 280 ms. Cold starts told the real story: Render's always-on instances meant zero delays, ideal for real-time apps. Vercel averaged 8.4 seconds on its Hobby tier after idle periods, a dealbreaker for user-facing services. For bandwidth-heavy apps like video streaming, Vercel's 1 TB free limit crushes Render's 100 GB, but most MVPs won't hit either cap early. Breaking Down the Real Pricing Render's pricing transparency wins for cash-strapped founders. Start free, add Postgres for $7/month post-trial, and scale to a 1 GB RAM instance at $25 total—keeping full MVPs under $10 for months. Vercel lures with a generous Hobby plan, but growth bites: Pro tier at $20 per user, plus $25 for Supabase and $20 for Upstash, totals $65+ quickly. Function limits force upgrades for traffic spikes, making it pricier for backend-heavy builds. Render emerges as the versatile champ for most startups, offering true free scaling without compromises. Vercel holds the speed throne for Next.js loyalists, but its costs creep up fast. Share below, and we'll spot the winner for you. 🚀
RTRVR.AI
By Jack Sterling November 19, 2025
In the fast-evolving world of AI web tools, RTRVR.AI stands out as a Chrome extension transforming standard browsing into an automated powerhouse. Launched in late 2024 and hitting version 2 in November 2025, RTRVR.AI isn't a full standalone browser but an AI web agent that supercharges your existing Chrome setup. With over 9,000 users and a #1 ranking on AI web agent benchmarks (81.39% success rate), it automates tasks like data scraping, form filling, and multi-tab research using simple English prompts but is it worth installing ? RTRVR.AI Web Browser Extension Review RTRVR.AI redefines web interaction by embedding Google's Gemini models directly into Chrome, enabling autonomous actions without leaving your tabs. It learns from your habits to predict needs, like extracting job listings from LinkedIn and pasting into Google Sheets, all via commands like "Seek: Find YC startups and follow on Twitter." Cross-device support via MCP (Multi-Device Control Protocol) lets it orchestrate tasks across laptop and phone, earning 2nd place at YC's 2025 Agents Hackathon. Unlike traditional browsers, RTRVR.AI focuses on "robotizing" the web—handling login-protected sites, paywalls, and dynamic content via DOM parsing for precision. User Interface and Design RTRVR.AI's interface is minimalist and unobtrusive, launching as a Chrome sidebar or popup to keep your workflow intact. Responsive across devices, it adapts seamlessly to mobile Chrome, though full features shine on desktop. Users on Chrome Web Store (4.2/5 from 200+ reviews) praise its "non-intrusive vibe," but some note initial UI confusion during setup Features and Functionality At its core, RTRVR.AI excels in agentic automation: Natural language drives actions like "Go to Amazon, compare iPhone prices across tabs, and chart results." Key features include: Data Extraction & Summarization: Crawl sites for structured JSON/CSV exports to Sheets; 88% success on read tasks per Web Bench. Voice & Hands-Free: Activate via commands for accessibility, ideal for multitasking. Cross-Tab Workflows: Parallel processing across tabs—e.g., scrape medical data compliantly. RTRVR.AI crushes benchmarks: 81.39% overall success, up to 7x faster than OpenAI Operator at $0.002/page. Local DOM interaction skips cloud delays, loading pages 4x quicker on average. Multi-tab ops handle 30-minute workflows without lag, per YouTube demos. Drawbacks?  Complex writes (e.g., dynamic forms) hit 70% success, improving via updates. Reddit threads call it "game-changing for automation," though quota limits on experimental models cause occasional hiccups. Privacy and Security Measures Security is baked in: As a vetted Chrome extension, it sandboxes operations, using your IP/sessions without external data shares. No CDP debugging risks like cloud agents; advanced encryption blocks trackers, with private mode erasing footprints. Custom ad/malware blockers enhance speed sans threats. Users control data via opt-outs, and local processing dodges bot detection/CAPTCHAs. Chrome Store flags sensitive permissions (e.g., tabs access), but transparency builds trust. Comparison with Other Browsers Like Atlas or Comet RTRVR.AI enhances Chrome rather than replacing it, outpacing vanilla versions in AI tasks. Vs. Firefox (privacy king, 4.6/5 PCMag), it adds automation without Mozilla's AI bloat. Safari trails in extensions (Apple ecosystem lock-in), while Edge/Opera lag in agentic depth. Against AI rivals like Perplexity Comet (free browsing, 75% benchmark) or ChatGPT Atlas (conversational, Mac-only), RTRVR.AI wins on speed/local control—7x faster, login-native. Chrome's resource hogs? Mitigated here. Drawback: Chrome-exclusive, unlike cross-browser hopefuls. Is RTRVR.AI Worth Installing? RTRVR.AI earns a 4.5/5 for revolutionizing Chrome with agentic smarts—perfect for automating SEO audits or lead gen. Install via Chrome Store; start with free credits for quick wins. As web AI surges, its local edge future-proofs against blocks. Skip if you need full-browser replacement, but for extension power, it's unmatched.
November 19, 2025
Universal Ostrich Farms: When Precaution Became Overkill in Edgewood, B.C.
By Bennett Freeman November 14, 2025
In the ever-evolving world of technology, few stories are as inspiring as the history of Google . Founded by two Stanford students in the late 1990s, Google has transformed from a simple search engine project into a multinational conglomerate powering everything from daily searches to cutting-edge AI innovations. This comprehensive guide explores how Google was founded , its revolutionary early days, rapid growth, diversification strategies, and its massive impact today. Whether you're researching Google's founding year , its founders, or its journey under Alphabet, this article covers it all. From the Founding Days | Larry Page and Sergey Brin's Dorm Room Vision (1996–1998) The story of how Google started begins in 1996 at Stanford University. PhD students Larry Page and Sergey Brin teamed up on a research project called BackRub, aimed at creating a better search engine. Their breakthrough? The PageRank algorithm , which ranked web pages based on the quality and quantity of links pointing to them Operating from dorm rooms and later a rented garage in Menlo Park, California, the duo refined their technology. By September 1998, Google was officially founded with an initial investment of $100,000 from Sun Microsystems co-founder Andy Bechtolsheim. This humble Google founding garage setup marked the birth of a company that would soon dominate the internet. Key Fact : Google was incorporated on September 4, 1998, and the name "Google" is a play on "googol" (1 followed by 100 zeros), symbolizing their mission to organize the world's vast information. The Search Engine Revolution As of 2025, Google (Alphabet) boasts a market cap exceeding $2 trillion, influencing daily life for over 90% of internet users. Products like Gmail, Google Workspace, Cloud, and AI tools (e.g., Gemini) drive productivity. Current Impact : Processes 8.5 billion searches daily. Android on 3B+ devices. Leading in AI with investments in quantum and generative tech. Yet, challenges persist: antitrust lawsuits, privacy concerns (e.g., data collection), and competition from AI rivals like OpenAI. Future Prospects : Google is betting big on AI integration Googe Gemini has had a spike in usage. Why Google's History Matters for Alphabets future From a dorm room startup to a global powerhouse, Google's journey exemplifies innovation and ambition. For entrepreneurs, it's a blueprint; for users, a reminder of how one idea can change the world. What aspect of Google's history fascinates you most? Share in the comments! 🚀
By Jack Sterling November 14, 2025
AI web browsers are reshaping how we surf the internet, blending machine learning with everyday navigation to deliver smarter, more intuitive experiences. In 2025, with over 60% of users adopting AI-enhanced tools per Statista reports, these browsers go beyond displaying pages—they anticipate needs, automate tasks, and personalize feeds. Traditional giants like Chrome face stiff competition from innovators like Perplexity's Comet AI web browser and OpenAI's Atlas by ChatGPT , launched in July and October respectively. Both leverage LLMs like GPT-4 for contextual assistance, but they diverge in focus: Comet emphasizes agentic research and multi-tab automation, while Atlas prioritizes conversational integration and memory-driven workflows. This Comet AI web browser vs Atlas by ChatGPT showdown explores their features, user experiences, performance, and future potential, helping you choose the right AI companion for seamless browsing. Introduction to ATlas and Comet AI Web Browsers AI web browsers embed advanced algorithms to learn from your habits, offering predictive search, content synthesis, and hands-free controls. They analyze interactions to build profiles, suggesting articles or filtering spam, while voice integration boosts accessibility. Security shines too—AI flags phishing in real-time, reducing malware risks by up to 40% according to cybersecurity firm LayerX. Privacy remains a hot topic; both Comet and Atlas opt users out of data training by default, but transparency varies. As the market hits $5 billion in 2025 (per AIMultiple benchmarks), these tools promise efficiency gains, from quick summaries for researchers to automated bookings for travelers. Yet, with rising data concerns, robust controls are key. Features of Comet AI Web Browser Perplexity's Comet, a Chromium-based browser, stands out for its agentic AI, automating complex workflows without constant input. Launched in early access, it supports multiple LLMs (including GPT-4.1) and excels in deep research: crawl sites, generate reports with verifiable sources, and export data as CSVs—ideal for analysts sifting through Amazon reviews or gym comparisons. Real-time content summaries condense pages into key points, while multi-tab awareness lets it compare open sites (e.g., membership prices across tabs) via charts. Features of Atlas by ChatGPT OpenAI's Atlas, also Chromium-based and Mac-exclusive at launch (Windows/iOS/Android incoming), embeds ChatGPT as a core sidebar for contextual queries. Ask about a page—"Summarize this article" or "Compare these products"—and it delivers chatbot-style responses with images, videos, or news tabs. Agent mode (Plus/Pro subscribers) automates tasks like booking hotels or filling forms, using a virtual cursor for precise navigation. Browser memories (optional) recall past searches for personalized suggestions, like resurfacing job postings with trend summaries. It supports Chrome extensions, Pomodoro timers via voice, and incognito mode for privacy —data isn't trained unless opted in, with ARIA tags aiding accessibility. Reviews highlight its "collaborative workspace" vibe, but criticize upgrade nags and limited multi-account support. At $20/month for full features, it's conversational gold for deep dives. Comparing Atlas vs Comet User experience splits along efficiency vs. interactivity. Comet delivers a proactive, low-friction flow: Its background agent handles grunt work like multi-site research, reducing cognitive load for power users. Interfaces feel intuitive, with quick charts and exports earning 4.5/5 on early Reddit threads—perfect for multitaskers, though some find its "malware-like" data prompts intrusive. Atlas, conversely, feels like a "knowledgeable companion," fostering dialogue for exploratory browsing. The sidebar anticipates needs (e.g., defining terms on-the-fly), making it engaging for learners—Tom's Guide users love scrollable tabs but note chaos in agent tasks. Both score high on accessibility (voice/multilingual), but Comet edges for speed, Atlas for depth. Choose Comet for task automation, Atlas for guided discovery. --------------------------------- Looking to 2026, both browsers signal AI's web evolution. Comet plans broader LLM integrations and proactive agents, potentially automating forgotten tasks via history analysis. Atlas eyes cross-platform expansion and enhanced agents, blending with OpenAI's ecosystem for "super-assistant" workflows. Privacy upgrades—like blockchain for data control—could address criticisms, while NLP advances promise hyper-personalization. As Google integrates Gemini, expect fiercer battles; hybrids may emerge, fusing Comet's automation with Atlas's chat.
Non-Degree Studies at UT Austin 2026: Complete Guide
By Max November 14, 2025
Whether you're eyeing skill-building certificates, flexible online courses, or a trial run at university-level academics without the full commitment, non-degree studies at UT Austin provide access to world-class faculty, cutting-edge resources, and the iconic Longhorn spirit. In 2025, with expanded online options and industry-aligned programs, these offerings serve over 10,000 learners annually, blending academic rigor with real-world applicability. In the heart of Texas's vibrant capital, the University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) stands as a beacon for lifelong learning, offering robust non-degree studies that empower professionals, explorers, and career changers alike. Non-Degree Studies at UT Austin Designed for high school graduates, working adults, the unemployed, and even current UT students seeking extras, these options let you enroll in credit-bearing or non-credit courses across disciplines like business, tech, liberal arts, and sciences. You'll tap into the same esteemed faculty and facilities as degree-seekers, fostering personal enrichment, career pivots, or exploratory learning in a flexible format. UT Austin's non-degree landscape is diverse, catering to varied goals from quick skill-ups to in-depth explorations: University Extension (UEX) : Credit-bearing courses for non-degree students, perfect for prerequisites or personal interest. No UT admission required—register anytime for self-paced online or semester-based formats in languages, sciences, and more. Continuing and Professional Education via Extended Campus : Non-credit certificates and workshops in high-demand fields like healthcare, AI, economics, and communication. Examples: Updates in Internal Medicine 2025 or AI in Health Communication series. Certificate Programs : Targeted stacks like the Communication Skills for Professionals or stackable online credentials in learning technologies. Ideal for resume boosters, with flexible timelines (10-24 months). These Open Enrollment Programs and Workshops bend in person Austin campus vibes with hybrid/online learning. Costs range from $500 per course (UEX) to $5,000+ for certificates, with many employer-reimbursable. Getting Accepted ton Non Degree Studies at Universirty of texas Austin Getting started is straightforward and competitive, prioritizing your potential to thrive in UT's environment. Basic requirements: High school diploma or equivalent (GPA 2.5+ preferred for credit courses). For international applicants: TOEFL (79+), IELTS (6.5+), or Duolingo (100-105). Transcripts from prior institutions; no GRE/SAT needed for most non-degree paths. This is Key. Step-by-Step Application : Visit ApplyTexas or UT's Graduate School portal for non-degree seekers—select "Non-Degree" option. Submit online form detailing goals and desired courses; include resume or statement of purpose. Pay $90 non-refundable fee (waivers for financial need available). Upload transcripts and English proficiency scores (if applicable). Await review—decisions in 2-4 weeks; interviews rare but possible. Deadlines: Rolling for UEX; program-specific (e.g., Fall 2025: August 1). No financial aid for non-degree, but scholarships like those from Extended Campus may apply. Pro tip: Strong academic history boosts chances for credit enrollment. What you can do with Non-Degree Studies UT Courses and Curricula Offered UT Austin's non-degree curricula span 100+ disciplines, emphasizing practical, innovative learning. Highlights for 2025: UT Austin actively supports non-degree studies as a strategic bridge to full-degree enrollment, with up to 12 credits transferable for those who maintain excellence (a GPA of 3.0 or higher is strongly recommended). For undergraduates, apply as a transfer through the Admissions office, where your non-degree hours contribute to the required 24-30 transferable credits; post-degree seekers can even opt for a fresh start. Non-degree studies at UT Austin aren't just classes—they're a catalyst for reinvention in one of America's top research hubs. With unmatched flexibility, elite resources, and clear degree pathways, it's the smart play for 2025's lifelong learners. Dive in via Extended Campus or UEX today—your Longhorn journey awaits, commitment-free. Data from UT Austin catalogs, admissions sites, and program pages as of November 10, 2025. Policies subject to updates; verify with official channels.
Antonio brown football
By Max November 10, 2025
The dramatic fall of former NFL superstar Antonio Brown took a shocking turn on November 6, 2025, when U.S. Marshals apprehended him in Dubai, extraditing the 37-year-old wide receiver to face attempted murder charges in Miami. The allegations stem from a chaotic shooting incident outside a celebrity boxing event hosted by streamer Adin Ross on May 17, 2025, where videos captured Brown allegedly firing shots at a man during a brawl. Now held in Essex County, New Jersey, Brown awaits transfer to Miami-Dade County Jail, where he could face up to 15 years... Antonio Brown Apprehended in Dubai: Details of the Arrest If convicted of second-degree attempted murder with a firearm this high-profile arrest reignites scrutiny over Brown's post-NFL life. What is the Adin Ross connection, and what's next for the once-unstoppable athlete? Miami Police spokesperson Michael Vega confirmed the extradition, praising the "relentless work" of detectives: "This is just another example of the dedication... to identify and arrest those who commit crimes in the City of Miami." lol
By Max November 10, 2025
Taiwanese electronics giant Pegatron announces its inaugural U.S. manufacturing site in Georgetown, Texas, with a $35 million capital commitment and hundreds of high-tech jobs. Explore the facility details, economic ripple, and AI focus amid global supply chain shifts.
By Jack Sterling November 7, 2025
Well not right now because the government is shut down. The burning question for online shoppers: Does Amazon accept EBT? The answer is yes — Amazon has accepted SNAP EBT payments nationwide since 2019, with seamless integration across Amazon Fresh, Amazon Grocery, and Whole Foods Market online. This program now serves over 42 million monthly participants , making Amazon one of the largest online EBT retailers in the U.S. Whether you're searching for Amazon EBT eligible items 2025 , how to use SNAP on Amazon Prime , or government shutdown impact on EBT benefits , this guide delivers official steps, exclusive discounts, and real data from USDA reports and Amazon as of November 06, 2025. SNAP/EBT on Amazon Acceptance Matters SNAP provides food assistance to low-income households through reloadable EBT cards. In fiscal year 2024, the program distributed $119.4 billion in benefits to an average of 42.1 million people monthly—roughly 12.5% of the U.S. population. Amazon's EBT program eliminates barriers like transportation and store hours, especially valuable during the ongoing shutdown that has delayed benefit loading in several states. Without physical access issues, SNAP users can order groceries for delivery or pickup using just their EBT card—no debit/credit needed for eligible items. How to Add EBT Card to Amazon Step-by-Step Amazon SNAP Setup Setting up SNAP on Amazon is free and takes minutes: Create or log into your Amazon account Go to Account & Lists > Your Payments > Add a payment method Select SNAP EBT and enter your card details Verify eligibility (Amazon checks against USDA database automatically) Optional: Register for Amazon Prime EBT discount (50% off— just $6.99/month) Over 85% of users complete setup in under 5 minutes, per Amazon's internal data. Once added, your EBT balance appears at checkout for eligible purchases. Amazon Fresh vs Whole Foods | Delivery & Pickup Options Amazon Fresh : Free 2-hour delivery on orders $35+ (or $100 in some areas) for Prime members; EBT covers groceries, you pay delivery fees separately Whole Foods Market : Same-day delivery or curbside pickup; exclusive organic and prepared cold items Nationwide coverage in all 50 states plus D.C. Prime members with EBT get unlimited free delivery on Amazon Fresh orders over $35—saving an average $139/year on fees alone.
Fire Chief Robert Tucker Resigns
By Alfanso C. November 7, 2025
In a shocking turn of events shaking New York City's public safety landscape, FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker announced his resignation on November 5, 2025 one day after Zohran Mamdani's landslide victory mandate in mayoral election.

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