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Project Flux is a pioneering podcast that explores the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence across various industries, including construction, music, infrastructure, and life sciences, with a focus on revolutionising the project delivery profession. Each episode brings to light how AI is redefining efficiency, innovation, and strategic decision-making in project management. Through engaging conversations with industry leaders, technologists, and forward-thinkers, the podcast offers a comprehensive look at the challenges and opportunities AI introduces, the nuances of its integration, and its potential to reshape project delivery on a global scale.
Project Flux is the go-to resource for professionals seeking to navigate the evolving landscape of AI in project delivery, offering insights, strategies, and inspiration to harness the power of AI for a more innovative and effective future.
Last Episode Date: 5 December 2024
Total Episodes: 42
Send us a textIn this episode of Project Flux, we uncover AI deployments in robotics, scientific research and AI personalities: 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗥𝗼𝗯𝗼𝘁𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗠𝗮𝗻𝘂𝗳𝗮𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴BMW’s humanoid robot is in use now. Figure 02, collaborates with humans to enhance safety and efficiency, showcasing robotics as a tool to augment, not replace, human capabilities. Like hallmarks of human history, will we soon see AI-powered robots using other AI-powered tools?𝗔𝗜 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲Large language models are driving breakthroughs in neuroscience by generating hypotheses, designing experiments, analysing data and accelerating scientific discovery. Will this improve or hamper our research ingenuity?𝗔𝗜 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀People are starting to question whether we over or under anthropomorphise AI. This question becomes evermore important as head to a world where AI’s develop personality similar to humans. But to what extent can we imbue personality into AI today?𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗼𝗿 𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝘄𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗿𝗼𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗔𝗚𝗜The time it takes to get to AGI depends on how you define it. The goalposts move almost every day yet tech titans do think it’ll happen faster than most people expect. What’s your prediction?Timestamps00:00 Introduction to AI Advances10:24 AI Personalities: The Case of Anthropic's Claude19:57 The Challenge of Data Quality in AI27:13 The Future of AI: Predictions and Perspectives39:28 Unleash the Code Intro.wavMore detail can be found in this weeks newsletter https://projectflux.beehiiv.com/p/ai-breakthroughs-the-robot-revolution-the-future-of-work-unveiledSubscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site
Send us a textAI in Architecture and Advancements in AI MemoryIn this two-part episode, James Garner and Yoshi Soornack delve into the transformative potential of AI in architecture, breakthroughs in AI memory, and the ethical considerations shaping its future.Part 1: Advancements in AIJames and Yoshi discuss rapid progress in AI, particularly memory and attention capabilities. They highlight AI's applications in healthcare, enhancing diagnosis accuracy and exploring digital replicas of human personalities. This segment underscores the power of AI while stressing the importance of responsible implementation across industries.Part 2: AI in Architecture with Martha TsigkariMartha Tsigkari, Senior Partner at Foster and Partners, shares her journey in architecture and her exploration of AI's role in design. She emphasises the creative augmentation AI offers while addressing challenges such as data management, synthetic data quality, and inclusivity. Concerns about bias and homogenisation are explored alongside the influence of large software companies in shaping the future of architecture.Key TakeawaysArchitecture and DesignAI integration in architecture is slow but significant.Resistance to change is common in the industry.Creativity must be augmented, not replaced, by AI.Challenges include data management and ensuring high-quality synthetic data.Ethical considerations like bias and inclusivity are critical.The slow adaptation to technology may prevent homogenisation in design.Ethical and Societal ImplicationsProactive measures are necessary to address misinformation risks and data ownership concerns.Big software companies could impact architecture's future.Rapid Advancements and ApplicationsAI is evolving rapidly, particularly in memory and attention capabilities.Future AI developments include personalised digital agents.Collaboration between human intuition and technology is key.Healthcare ApplicationsAI enhances doctor-patient interactions and improves outcomes through better diagnoses.Emerging TechnologiesDigital replicas of human personalities are becoming a reality.Guest Speaker: Martha TsigkariMartha leads Foster and Partners' Applied R+D group, focusing on cutting-edge research in geometry, machine learning, and design-to-production processes. She has contributed to hundreds of projects since 2006 and is also an Associate Professor at UCL.Chapters00:00 The weekly Pulse31:14 The Intersection of Architecture and Technology34:00 AI's Role in Architectural Design36:53 Transforming Design Processes with AI39:41 The Future of AI in Architecture42:29 Creativity and AI: A New Paradigm45:22 Data Challenges in Architecture48:04 Synthetic Data and Its Implications50:03 Biases in Design and Architecture51:35 Innovative Solutions for Inclusivity52:39 Ethical Considerations in AI55:43 AI as a Tool for Augmentation58:32 Concerns of Homogenization in Design01:02:40 The Role of Big Software Companies01:08:40 Introduction and Sponsorship Highlights01:09:02 EngagemenSubscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site
Send us a textIn this weeks episode, Hosts James and Yoshi dive into the latest in AI, exploring safety-first approaches, the rise of AI agents, the evolving AI skills gap, and the potential for monopolies in the construction industry.Key TopicsAnthropic are safety firstAnthropic aims to raise the floor in AI development with healthy competition to drive innovationHowever, AI’s potential misuse and autonomy necessitates robust governance frameworks.Anthropic’s AI safety levels (ASL’s) are crucial for responsible AI deployment.And they have deployed a Responsible Scaling Plan with if-and-then safety protocolsHowever, the EU's AI regulations may not align with these industry practices.Agents are the future, but are they the present?The future of AI agents promises greater automation and efficiency.Organisations are increasingly adopting AI agents for various functions.Automation reduces lag time in communication and project execution.AI agents can autonomously analyse and reallocate resources in projects.Performance and reliability of agentic systems are critical concerns.The AI skill gap is evolvingThere is a significant skills gap in understanding AI technologies.Effective implementation of AI requires phased approaches and upskilling.And the complexity of AI systems is rapidly increasing.Is an AI monopoly forming in construction?Autodesk's tight relationship with the US government raises concerns about market monopolisation.This can make it harder for smaller startups to growThis also means innovation lies with the monopolising organisationTrust in AI systems is influenced by the human element behind them.Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Project Flux Podcast14:31 Autodesk's Market Position and Implications21:04 The Future of AI Agents26:58 Resource Allocation and Project Management34:46 Implementing AI Agents EffectivelySubscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site
Send us a textIn this episode of Project Flux, we delve into three standout advancements: Anthropic's Claude, Perplexity’s real-time election tracker, and OpenAI’s recent acquisition of chat.com. These updates illustrate AI’s expanding influence, with Claude streamlining complex tasks across industries, Perplexity setting new standards for live, AI-powered updates, and OpenAI enhancing brand visibility and accessibility through strategic acquisition.We then engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Dev Amratia, the founder of nPlan, who shares his journey from project management in the oil and gas sector to AI leadership in construction. Together, we discuss the UK's role in the global AI ecosystem, the significance of investor relations, and how AI is reshaping project management. Dev highlights the challenges around data sharing in construction, emphasising cultural resistance to AI adoption, and underscores the importance of embracing digital transformation to stay competitive in an increasingly AI-driven industry.TakeawaysAnthropic’s automated computer use AI can revolutionise rolesThe future of automation is rapidly evolving.Perplexity's election tracker offers real-time updates like no other AI powered toolOpenAI's new acquisition enhances its brand visibility and user accessibilityData partnerships are essential for output accuracy.AI is transforming content creation and editing.Dev's journey from project management to AI in construction with nPlanThe changing role of consultants in project deliveryCultural resistance to AI adoption in the industry.Concerns about the UK's competitive position in AI.The need for capital investment in technology.The significance of investor relations in startups.The impact of consolidation in the construction tech market.The role of ethics and assurance in AI development.The debate over data sharing versus data retention.Guest SpeakerDev is a chartered engineer and the Co-Founder and CEO of nPlan, a machine learning company that analyses how past construction projects have performed to predict outcomes for future ones, introducing a transformative approach to managing risk and uncertainty.With a background in delivering construction projects for the energy sector across three continents over nine years, Dev later joined the UK government to lead the national review on AI, published as part of the Industrial Strategy in 2017.Timestamps00:00 Introduction 22:47 The Role of AI in Project Management25:21 UK's Position in the Global AI Landscape28:03 Investor Relations and Attracting the Right Partners30:33 The Future of Project Delivery33:17 Data Sharing vs. Data Retention in Construction36:05 Consolidation in the Construction Tech Market38:48 Cultural Resistance to AI Adoption41:12 The Inevitable Rise of AI in Project Management57:48 Introduction and Sponsorship Highlights58:11 Engagement and Community BuildingNplan WebsiteDev's Linked InSubscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site
Send us a textIn this episode of the Project Flux podcast, Sri discusses his journey as a founder of Rocketlane, a SaaS platform designed to improve client project delivery. He shares insights into the challenges faced by project managers, the importance of real-time data, and how AI can enhance project management processes. In this conversation we also discuss the much-anticipated ChatGPT Search feature, its integration challenges, and comparisons with competitors like Perplexity and Google. We also delve into insights from Sam Altman's Reddit AMA, Meta's open-source strategy, and the disappointing launch of Apple Intelligence, highlighting the varying approaches of tech giants in the AI landscape.☕️ Weekly Tech Takeaways- ChatGPT Search is finally here, but it's not without issues.- This launch highlighted that ChatGPT's integration of AI features is still fragmented.- Perplexity offers a more thorough search experience compared to ChatGPT.- Meanwhile, Sam Altman emphasises the potential for AGI with current hardware.- Despite OpenAI and big tech also competing heavily on compute power and efficiency.- Meta is pushing an open-source strategy that could reshape government AI use.- Open-source models are allowing for greater community collaboration and transparency.- Meanwhile, Apple's AI launch has been disappointing compared to expectations.- Different AI tools are being used for distinct use cases, each bringing its strengths to the table.☕️ Guest Takeaways- Rocketlane is a professional services automation tool created to enhance client project delivery.- AI can automate risk identification and support better decision-making.- The future of project management will increasingly depend on AI capabilities.- Real-time data is crucial for effective project management.- Change management is essential for successful AI adoption.- Project delays often accumulate gradually, requiring early intervention.🎙️ Guest speakerSrikrishnan Ganesan is the founder of Rocketlane, a purpose-built platform that streamlines customer onboarding and professional services automation (PSA) for businesses. By unifying project management, resource allocation, financial oversight, and customer collaboration, Rocketlane helps companies deliver projects on time and within budget, accelerating time-to-value and enhancing customer satisfaction. Rocketlane secured $18 million in Series A funding in January 2022, followed by a $24 million Series B round in June 2024. This financial backing reflects investor confidence in their innovative approach to customer onboarding and professional services. Sri previously built Konotor (now Freshchat), which was acquired by Freshworks (#16 on Forbes Cloud 100).📚 ChaptersIntroduction to Project Flux PodcastChatGPT Search: A Long-Awaited FeatureFragmentation in AI FeaturesComparing ChatGPT Search with CompetitorsSam Altman's Reddit AMA InsightsMeta's Open Source StrategyApple Intelligence: A Disappointing LaunchChallenges in Project ManagementThe Role of AI in Project ManagementNavigating Change Management and AdoptionFuture of Rocketlane Subscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site
Send us a textIn this episode of the Project Flux podcast, James Garner and Yoshi Soornack discuss: the upcoming project delivery hackathon at Rolls Royce, the significant impact of AI on society highlighted by recent Nobel Prize awards, and the evolution of AI technologies. They explore the collaboration between Boston Dynamics and Toyota in robotics, the role of nuclear energy in powering AI, and the latest innovations from Perplexity, including their new features and legal challenges in the AI landscape. We highlight the significance of hackathons, with a special focus on Project Hack 23, in fostering innovation, the role of AI in enhancing project delivery, and the potential of nuclear energy to meet the growing demands of AI. The episode also reviews the week's biggest news in AI, and features quick interviews with key figures in the industry, including Sheldon Atkinson, Ant Newman, Andy Murray of the MPA, and Martin Paver, CEO of Projecting Success. Additionally, we explore the latest features from Perplexity and its competitive positioning in the AI landscape.Takeaway⚡️ 𝙉𝙪𝙘𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙧𝙜𝙮 is the key to powering AI's growth.🧬 AI is critical for scientific progress, just see the 𝙉𝙤𝙗𝙚𝙡 𝙋𝙧𝙞𝙯𝙚 2024 winners🧠 𝘼𝙨𝙨𝙤𝙘𝙞𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙢𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙮 is crucial for advancements in AI.🦾 We’re now seeing 𝙧𝙤𝙗𝙤𝙩 𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨🧑⚖️ A huge AI player is facing a 𝙣𝙚𝙬 𝙡𝙚𝙜𝙖𝙡 𝙙𝙞𝙨𝙥𝙪𝙩𝙚🌱 AI's role in 𝙨𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙗𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙮 is becoming increasingly important.👩💻 The PDA community hackathon at 𝙍𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙨 𝙍𝙤𝙮𝙘𝙚 showcases innovative AI solutions.00:00 Introduction to the Hackathon at Rolls Royce03:11 Exploring Associative Memory and AI's Evolution07:53 AI as a Core Component of Scientific Progress10:32 Collaboration in Robotics: Boston Dynamics and Toyota12:53 Nuclear Energy's Role in Powering AI16:56 Perplexity's Innovations and Challenges in AI26:10 Introduction to AI and Projecting Success28:40 The Evolution of AI Accessibility31:52 Project Hack 23: Collaboration and Future Directions32:46 Introduction to Project Hack 23 and AI Buzz33:39 The Growing Importance of AI in Project Management35:57 Challenges in Data Sharing and Productivity37:22 The Need for Standardisation in Project Frameworks38:41 Data Collection and Insights in Project Delivery43:58 The Evolution of Project Hack46:40 Leveraging Technology for SolutionsLink to Project Hack 23 Subscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site
Send us a textIn this episode of the Project Flux podcast, we discuss the latest advancements in AI and robotics, particularly focusing on Tesla's recent WeRobot event. We explore the implications of autonomous vehicles and humanoid robots in various industries, including construction. The conversation also delves into the limitations of current AI models, as highlighted by recent research from Apple, and the potential for integration and consolidation within the construction technology sector. The episode concludes with insights on new features from Construct AI and the importance of careful interaction with AI systems.TakeawaysConstruct AI is pushing boundaries in the construction industry.Tesla's WeRobot event showcased innovative robots and autonomous vehicles.Public perception of Tesla's innovations is mixed, focusing on both excitement and skepticism.The CyberCab and Robo van represent a shift towards autonomous transportation.Tesla's technology relies on computer vision, which has its own safety concerns.Elon Musk's vision includes creating an autonomous travel ecosystem.AI models, including LLMs, have limitations in reasoning and performance.Recent research indicates that LLMs may be memorizing rather than reasoning.The construction industry is seeing increased integration of technology solutions.The future of AI and robotics will require careful consideration of ethical implications.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Weekly Pulse02:27 Tesla's WeRobot Event and Public Perception08:24 The Future of Autonomous Vehicles12:05 Limitations of Large Language Models19:39 AI's Role in Project Delivery and Industry Trends27:16 Introduction and Sponsorship Highlights27:38 Engagement and Community BuildingSubscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site
Send us a textSummaryIn this episode of Project Flux, host James Garner interviews Professor Sarah Davidson, a leading expert in Building Information Modeling (BIM) and information management. They discuss Sarah's journey in the field, the evolution of BIM, and the integration of AI in enhancing information management processes. The conversation explores the challenges faced in the adoption of BIM, the potential of AI to improve efficiency and decision-making, and the importance of clear information specifications. They also touch on the role of organizations like NEMA in supporting the industry and the future directions for BIM and AI integration.TakeawaysAI has the potential to improve risk analysis and decision-making.BIM is often misunderstood as solely a geometrical model.The importance of clear specifications for information management.AI should complement human intelligence, not replace it.The next generation is more familiar with virtual environments.Real-time APIs can enhance user experience in AI applications.NEMA plays a crucial role in supporting information management in the built environment.Adoption of AI requires understanding its outputs and implications.Collaboration is key to successful BIM implementation.The future of BIM involves integrating various data sources effectively.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Professor Sarah Davidson24:15 The Journey into BIM and Information Management26:54 Understanding BIM: Definitions and Misconceptions29:56 The Role of AI in Enhancing BIM32:33 Caution and Acceptance: AI in Academia35:23 AI and BIM: A Complementary Relationship38:21 Defining Information Needs for AI Integration41:26 NEMA: The Evolution of the UK BIM Alliance44:19 Critiques of BIM: The Need for Transformation47:01 The Future of 3D Modeling and User Engagement58:13 Unleash the Code Intro.wavSubscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site
Send us a text“Super intelligence will be here in a few thousand days.”These huge words from Sam Altman mixed with Zuckerberg’s impressive Connect 2024 showcase have once again brought the world of advanced tech to the fore.In this weeks episode, we were joined by mixed reality enthusiast and management consultant specialist Ryan Clarke to focus in on:🕶️ Meta’s reveal of Orion - the most advanced glasses in the world📟 The future of mixed reality and its place in construction🏙️ The fall of construction giant ISG and how to avoid a similar fate🧠 How “massive prosperity” will be the next leap for AI➖ Why ChatGPT’s OpenAI are a cause for concernTimestamps00:00 Digital Maturity in Industries19:10 Drivers of Digital Change22:04 The Buzzwords of Technology25:02 Meta's Innovations and Announcements28:01 The Future of Spatial Computing30:46 Impact of AI on Project Delivery33:47 Challenges in Construction Technology36:27 The Role of Friction in Technology Adoption39:26 The Future of Mixed Reality and Neural Interfaces53:54 Balancing AI and Human JudgmentTakeawaysThe construction industry is digitally immature compared to others.Digital change is often driven by the need to avoid pain rather than to gain pleasure.Buzzwords like AI and the metaverse can distract from meaningful innovation.Meta's recent announcements show a commitment to spatial computing.Spatial computing will likely change project delivery in construction.BIM technology is underutilised in its potential to prevent project risks.Friction in technology adoption can hinder progress and innovation.The future of technology should focus on seamless integration into daily life.Neural interfaces may become more accepted than augmented reality contact lenses.People are often the biggest challenge in technology implementation.Guest Speaker Profile:Ryan is a forward-thinking BIM professional, blending expertise in XR technology with a deep understanding of data analytics to revolutionise the design and construction process. With a background in Management Consulting, he has driven transformative change across sectors such as Real Estate, CPG, Banking, Legal, and the Public Sector. His experience extends over 6 years, during which he has harnessed spatial computing to architect precise digital replicas of physical spaces, notably data centres and offices, enhancing planning, and execution in construction projectsLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanclarke3WebsiteL https://ryanclarke.dev/ Subscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site
Send us a textDoes human connectivity impact workplace performance? and how does this dynamic respond to business coaching in the age of AI?This week we’re joined by Philip Crocker, expert in business and performance coaching, to discuss:🔺 How important human connection is in response to performance coaching🕵️ Dark pattern choices by Linkedin AI in how it consumes your data🌱 The evolution of OKR’s within the AI age and where it fits🖇️ Human strengths and AI’s limitations in meta-cognition and meta-learning📘 New features in free AI powered talk-to-your-documents tech by GoogleGuest Speaker Profile:Philip Crocker is dedicated to helping professionals build a thriving and successful work-life by focusing on what truly matters—achieving goals through effective collaboration.As a specialist in Coaching and OKR Development, Philip - former coach at McKinsey, aims to help individuals, teams, and organisations clearly define their desired outcomes. He and his team then create a safe, deeply inclusive space where everyone can explore these goals together and co-learn along the way.By understanding where you are now and where you want to go, they guide you in co-creating a personalised plan to achieve meaningful progress.Philip’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philipcrocker/Website: https://philipcrocker.com/ Chapters00:00 Introduction and the Weekly Pulse with Rithwik22:54 The Evolution and Future of OKRs with Phil26:23 AI's Role in Consulting and Coaching30:04 The Human Element in OKRs35:37 Navigating Leadership and AI41:31 The Importance of Connection and Mentorship47:05 Concluding Thoughts on AI and Human InteractionTakeawaysOKRs stand on the shoulders of good management practices.The success of OKRs relies on effective communication and connection.AI can augment but not replace human intuition and understanding.Confidentiality is crucial when integrating AI into organisational processes.The human element is essential in interpreting data and making decisions.Mentorship plays a vital role in guiding new professionals.Learning is a continuous process that extends beyond formal education.AI should be seen as a tool to enhance productivity, not a threat.Organisational culture significantly impacts the implementation of OKRs.Effective leadership requires awareness of one's ego and biases.KeywordsOKRs, AI, consulting, coaching, leadership, human connection, mentorship, productivity, organizational culture, performance measurementSubscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site
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