The E-Cig Store Blog
MTL vs DTL Vaping: What They Are and How to Choose What Suits You
The are so many vaping options available at the moment, which can become overwhelming and make it difficult to decide which vape is best for you. If you’ve ever heard about MTL or DTL but don’t know what they mean and what the difference is between them, we explain it in this blog. We cover how each vaping style works, its pros and cons and how to decide which one is best for you. MTL (Mouth-to-Lung) and DTL (Direct-to-Lung) are two different vaping styles. Understanding the difference will help you pick the right vape kit, coils, and e-liquids for you. What Is MTL Vaping? MTL stands for Mouth-to-Lung vaping. With this vaping style, you draw vapour into your mouth first, pause briefly, then inhale it into your lungs. It’s the same method people use when smoking a cigarette. Who Uses MTL? MTL vaping is one of the most popular ways to vape, especially for beginners or individuals who used to smoke. MTL gives throat hit without producing large clouds, and it also gives you more control. Best E-Liquid, Nicotine and PG/VG Ratios for MTL MTL kits work best with 50/50 e-liquids or nicotine salts. A higher PG level increases the flavour and gives a stronger throat hit. Most MTL devices work best with 12 mg and 20 mg nicotine strengths. Another reason why people choose MTL setups is that they use less e-liquid, which makes them cheaper for people who vape daily. Pros and Cons of MTL Pros: Gives you a similar feel to smoking If you are someone who wants to quit smoking or is transitioning from smoking to vaping, this is the best vaping method. Because it’s so similar to smoking cigarettes, it makes the process easier. Uses less e-liquid For people who like to vape daily and use a lot of vape juice, this is a huge advantage, as MTL is significantly cheaper because the vaporisation rate is slower. This way, your juice bottles last longer. Gives a stronger flavour Because MTL vaping keeps the vapour in your mouth for several seconds, your taste buds get more time to pick up the flavour. Works well with higher nicotine levels Since MTL vaping pairs well with nicotine salts, it gives you a higher nicotine strength, even if there’s a smaller amount of vapour. Smaller and more discreet vapour clouds The vape clouds created by MTL devices are much smaller and lighter. This is an advantage for people who often vape in public or want to be considerate of others. Even if the vapours are smaller, because of the high nicotine levels, you still get a strong throat hit. Cons: Smaller vapours On the other side, for people who like dense vape clouds and enjoy blowing them because of how cool they look, MTL might not be the right choice. Less powerful hit compared to DTL MTL vaping gives a softer and more controlled inhale. You can still get a good throat hit, especially if you decide to have a higher nicotine strength, but some people believe that MTL vaping is weaker than DTL. What Is DTL Vaping? DTL stands for Direct-to-Lung. With DTL, you inhale vapour straight into your lungs in one slow and continuous breath, without holding it in your mouth. Who Uses DTL DTL vaping is used by experienced vapers who enjoy getting large clouds and like a more intense experience. Best E-Liquid, Nicotine and PG/VG Ratios for DTL DTL kits have a better performance with high-VG e-liquids (70VG/30PG or higher). VG produces thicker clouds and smoother vapour. To prevent harsh throat hits, it’s best to keep the nicotine levels low (3 mg to 6 mg). DTL vaping uses more e-liquid, which makes you have to refill your tank more regularly. You can find good options in your high VG e-liquids and shortfill e-liquid categories. You can also add low-strength nicotine with nicotine shots. Airflow, Coils and Device Specs DTL vaping needs open airflow and sub-ohm coils (below 1.0 ohm). The best devices for DTL are sub-ohm vape kits, box mods, and tanks with adjustable wattage, which give more control and intensity. Pros and Cons of DTL Pros: Creates denser and bigger vapour clouds One of the main reasons why people like DTL, it’s because it creates big and thick clouds, which creates a nice vaping experience and looks impressive. Stronger flavour DTL devices can provide a stronger flavour because of the larger amount of vapour and airflow. Customisable settings Cons: Uses more e-liquid Contrary to MTL devices, DTL vaping uses more e-liquid and can become more expensive in the long term. People often mention that their e-liquid bottles don’t last as long and need to be refilled more frequently. Requires more battery power DTL vaping requires higher wattage, which can drain your battery quicker. Since these devices use more powerful coils to get larger clouds, you might have to recharge your battery more often. Not suitable for high nicotine levels DTL vaping can feel a bit harsher, and since it works best with low-nicotine e-liquids, if you use high-nicotine juice, it can be too overwhelming. DTL setups are more about flavour and cloud production than nicotine strength. Needs coil maintenance For DTL devices, there is a higher chance of the coils burning prematurely, so you have to constantly check the e-liquid level and refill it on time. How to Choose The Best Vaping Style For You To pick the right vaping style for you, think about: Your Vaping Experience Level Your Nicotine Needs The Flavour Strength and Amount of Clouds You Want to Create Your Budget and E-Liquid Costs How Easy It Is to Use The Flexibility the Device Gives You MTL vs DTL FAQs Can I change between MTL and DTL? Yes, you can, but not all devices allow it. Some vapers switch between MTL and DTL so they can experience both vaping styles, but in order to do so, you’d have to change your coil, airflow, and e-liquid type. There are some hybrid devices that let you adjust the settings easily. Is it better to vape in your mouth or lungs? It depends on your vaping style and preferences. MTL (mouth-to-lung) is more similar to smoking and has a stronger throat hit, but DTL (direct-to-lung) makes bigger clouds and has a smoother inhale. Is MTL or DTL better for throat hit? MTL vaping gives a stronger throat hit because it uses higher nicotine levels. DTL vaping feels smoother and softer as it focuses more on flavour and cloud production rather than throat sensation. Is direct-to-lung vaping worse? Not necessarily, it’s just a different vaping style. Direct-to-Lung vaping isn’t worse, but it uses more e-liquid and makes bigger clouds, which can feel a bit intense if you’re used to MTL or higher levels of nicotine.
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PG vs VG: A Guide to E-Liquid Ratios
If you’re new to vaping, one of the first things you’ll notice when looking for e-liquids is that they often list something called VG and PG. You might be thinking: What are VG and PG? What do these terms mean, and why do they matter when choosing your vape juice? In this blog, we’ll break down the PG and VG meaning, explain the difference between PG and VG, and help you decide which blend is right for you. By the end, you’ll know how these two ingredients affect your vaping experience. PG and VG Meaning Let’s start with the basics. PG stands for Propylene Glycol, and VG stands for Vegetable Glycerin. These are the two main base ingredients used in almost every vape juice. They make up the bulk of the liquid, with flavourings and (if chosen) nicotine added on top. PG and VG behave differently when heated and vaped, which is why you’ll see e-liquids described as having different PG/VG ratios. What is PG? Propylene Glycol (PG) is a thin, colourless liquid with no odour. It has a slightly sweet taste, though this is usually masked by flavourings in vape juice. PG is widely used outside of vaping, too. When it comes to vaping, PG is responsible for: Carrying flavour – PG is great at absorbing and providing flavour, which means e-liquids with higher PG often taste stronger. Throat hit – PG provides the familiar “kick” at the back of your throat that mimics the sensation of smoking a traditional cigarette. Thinner consistency – Because PG is runnier, it wicks more easily into the cotton inside vape coils, especially in smaller devices like pod kits. What is VG? Vegetable Glycerin (VG) is a thicker, naturally sweet liquid derived from vegetable oils. In vaping, VG is used for: Cloud production – High VG e-liquids create bigger, denser clouds, which is why they’re popular among sub-ohm vapers. Smoother inhale – VG reduces throat hit, making the vape feel smoother and less harsh. Thicker consistency – Because VG is heavier, it works best in more powerful vape kits with larger coils designed for thicker liquids. Difference Between PG and VG Now that we’ve covered what each liquid does, let’s look at the difference between PG and VG side by side: Feature PG (Propylene Glycol) VG (Vegetable Glycerin) Consistency Thin, runny Thick, syrupy Flavour strength Stronger flavour delivery Milder flavour Throat hit Strong, cigarette-like Smooth, gentle Clouds Smaller clouds Bigger clouds Best for Mouth-to-lung vaping, starter kits, smokers switching to vaping Direct-to-lung vaping, sub-ohm kits, cloud chasers The balance of PG and VG affects how your vape tastes, feels, and performs. Common PG/VG Ratios Explained Most vape juices aren’t 100% PG or VG – instead, they’re blended in different ratios. Here are the most common ones: 50/50 E-Liquids Equal parts PG and VG. Great for beginners, as they offer a balance of flavour, throat hit, and vapour. Designed for use with smaller kits and pod systems. High VG (e.g., 70/30 VG/PG) More VG than PG, meaning thicker clouds and a smoother inhale. Perfect for sub-ohm kits and more advanced devices. Requires coils with larger wicking holes to handle the thicker liquid. Choosing the Right PG/VG Ratio for You Deciding on the right balance depends on your priorities: Want stronger flavour and throat hit? Go for a higher PG ratio. Want smooth inhales and big clouds? Choose high VG e-liquids. Not sure yet? Start with a 50/50 blend and adjust from there. If you’re brand new to vaping, we recommend pairing a 50/50 e-liquid with a simple starter kit. This way, you can see what you prefer before experimenting with more specific blends. How PG and VG Affect Devices Your choice of PG and VG also impacts which vape kit you should use: High PG liquids: Best for starter kits and pod systems with coils above 1.0 ohm. High VG liquids: Best for sub-ohm vape kits with coils below 1.0 ohm. 50/50 liquids: Versatile and compatible with most beginner-friendly devices. Using the wrong liquid for your kit can cause problems. For example, thick VG liquids in a small pod system may clog the coil or lead to dry hits. On the other hand, thin PG liquids in a high-powered sub-ohm device may leak or feel too harsh. PG and VG Safety A common question is whether PG and VG are safe to inhale. Both ingredients are considered safe for human consumption. While some vapers may experience minor sensitivity to PG (such as a dry throat or mild irritation), most people vape comfortably with no issues. FAQs About PG and VG What is VG and PG in vape juice? VG (Vegetable Glycerin) and PG (Propylene Glycol) are the base ingredients in vape juice. They create the vapour, carry flavour, and influence throat hit and cloud size. Can I mix my own PG and VG? Yes, DIY e-liquid makers often mix their own ratios. However, most vapers find it easier to buy ready-made blends like 50/50 e-liquids. What happens if I use the wrong PG/VG ratio? Your vape may leak, taste harsh, or produce less vapour if the PG/VG blend isn’t matched to your device. Which is better – PG or VG? Neither is ‘better’ overall – it depends on your preferences. PG gives more throat hit and flavour, while VG gives smoother inhales and bigger clouds.
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Beginner’s Guide to Vaping (2025)
Thinking about switching to vaping? This beginner’s guide explains everything you need to know — from how refillable vape kits work to choosing the right nicotine strength and e-liquid flavour. Start your smoke-free journey confidently with The E-Cig Store.
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How To Find Your Ideal Vape Nicotine
If you want to have a pleasant vaping experience, you need to choose the right vape nicotine level. Getting it right matters. It avoids harshness and makes the experience satisfying. This blog helps you find your ideal vape nicotine. It explains key concepts clearly, so you can make the right choice. Why Vape Nicotine Levels Matter Nicotine levels in e-liquids usually use milligrams per millilitre (mg/ml). That figure reveals how much nicotine each millilitre contains. Typical amounts include 0, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 20 mg/ml. These numbers show how much nicotine you inhale. Too low, and you might not feel much. Too high, and you may feel dizziness or throat irritation. That makes choosing the right strength important for a smooth transition from smoking. Know Your Smoking Habits If you don’t know where to start, try to match vape nicotine to your past smoking pattern: Light smokers (1–5 cigarettes per day): Try 3 mg freebase or 5 mg nic salts. Moderate smokers (6–14 cigarettes per day): 6 mg freebase or 10 mg nic salts works well. Heavy smokers (around one pack a day): Start with 12 mg freebase or 20 mg nic salts. Very heavy smokers (20+ cigarettes a day): There’s a freebase option of 18 mg. Nicotine Strengths Explained When you look at e-liquids, you will see numbers like 0 mg, 3 mg, 6 mg, 12 mg, 18 mg, and 20 mg. These figures describe how much nicotine is in each millilitre of liquid. Below is a simple guide: 0 mg – Nicotine-free. Best for vapers who enjoy flavour and the hand-to-mouth habit but no longer want nicotine. 3 mg – Very low. Good for light smokers or those stepping down from higher levels. Works well in sub-ohm devices. 6 mg – Low to medium. Suits moderate smokers. Gives a mild throat hit and light satisfaction. 12 mg – Medium to strong. Feels more noticeable. Fits smokers used to up to a pack a day. 18 mg – Strong. Delivers a punchy throat hit and satisfies heavier smokers. 20 mg (maximum legal in the UK) – Very strong. Usually found in nic salts and designed for heavy smokers seeking fast relief. Understanding these options makes it easier to decide. Pick a starting point close to your old smoking habit, then adjust up or down based on how you feel. Spot the Difference: Freebase vs. Nicotine Salts Freebase Nicotine Offers a harsher throat hit, especially above 12 mg Slower to act and leave your system Flavour tends to feel muted at higher strengths Better for gradual reduction over time Nicotine Salts Deliver smooth hits even at higher strengths Work faster and last longer Keep flavour intense and satisfying Suit MTL pod kits and help curb cravings quickly Nic salts have changed vaping. They allow higher nicotine with minimal discomfort. The maximum legal concentration in the UK for any e-liquid remains 20 mg/ml. Align Your Device Style with Nicotine Levels Device choice links tightly to nicotine strength: Mouth-to-lung (MTL) devices favour higher nicotine strengths up to 20 mg. They offer throat hit similar to cigarettes Direct-to-lung (DTL) devices handle low-nicotine or no-nicotine liquids. They produce big clouds and work best with high VG, low-nicotine juice (0–3 mg) Pick the right vape kit to match your nicotine choice. That improves satisfaction and helps avoid any issues. Safety and Legal Limits In the UK, 20 mg/ml is the strongest legal strength for e-liquids. Any product above that limit likely lacks safety checks and should be avoided. Steps to Finding the Right Nicotine Strength Here’s a practical, active checklist: Assess your smoking pattern Set point of reference: light, moderate, or heavy habits. Choose nicotine style Prefer instant relief and smooth hits? Go for nic salts. Prefer gradual reduction or don’t mind throat hit? Pick freebase. Match to your device Opt for MTL for higher strengths, DTL for low or zero nicotine. Start sensiblePick a strength aligned with your smoking habit. Avoid jumping too high, that risks discomfort or nausea. Adjust as needed If you feel unsatisfied, increase strength slowly. If you feel too buzzed, lower it. Know the limit Stay at or below 20 mg/ml for safety and legal peace of mind. Final Thoughts Choosing your vape nicotine level influences how effective and enjoyable your vaping journey can be. When done right, it diminishes cravings, satisfies you, and makes quitting easier. Use your smoking habits as a guide, hold legality and safety up front, and adjust responsibly. With the right level, your switch to vaping becomes not just smoother but powerful and reassuring. FAQs About Vape Nicotine Levels What nicotine level should I start with if I smoked 10 cigarettes a day? Most moderate smokers do well with 6 mg freebase or 10 mg nic salts. This provides enough nicotine to manage cravings without being overwhelming. Can I change my nicotine level later? Yes. Many vapers reduce strength over time. If you feel light-headed or your throat feels sore, lower the strength. If cravings return quickly, increase slightly What’s the difference between nic salts and freebase? Nic salts feel smoother and act faster in the body. Freebase nicotine has a stronger throat hit and is better for gradually reducing intake. Does a higher nicotine level mean more vapour? No. Vapour output depends on your device and the ratio of VG (vegetable glycerin) in the liquid, not nicotine strength.
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Elf Bar Plus 50 Vape Kit Review
The Elf Bar Plus 50 Vape Kit is a sleek, rechargeable alternative to disposables, delivering up to 5500 puffs per refill with smooth 20mg nic salts. In this review, we break down its design, performance, and flavours to see if it’s the best upgrade for everyday vapers.
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OXVA XLIM Pro 2 DNA Review
If you’re tired of burnt coils, inconsistent flavour, or pod kits that just don’t deliver, the OXVA XLIM Pro 2 DNA could be the answer. This is the world’s first pod kit to feature Evolv’s DNA chipset, bringing advanced technology from high-end box mods into a compact pod system. The result? Flawless flavour, no dry hits, extended pod lifespan, and up to four extra hours of battery performance compared to the standard Pro 2. But does it really live up to the hype? Let’s dive in. Who Is the OXVA XLIM Pro 2 DNA For? New vapers looking for a reliable, easy-to-use device. Intermediate and advanced vapers who want DNA precision in a compact pod kit. MTL (mouth-to-lung) and RDL (restricted direct lung) vapers needing versatility. Anyone tired of short pod lifespans — pair with OXVA Stainless Steel Replacement Pods to unlock Replay Mode and Anti-Burn. Key Features & Specs Evolv DNA Chipset – industry-leading precision & Replay Mode. Anti-Burn Technology – prevents dry hits and burnt coils. Replay Mode – lock in your perfect puff. 1300mAh Battery – with DNA efficiency for all-day use. 0.56” Colour Display – clear and bright. Adjustable Airflow – from tight MTL to open RDL. USB-C Fast Charging – 0–100% in under an hour. Pod Compatibility – works with all XLIM pods, but Replay/Anti-Burn only with SS versions. Premium Design – forged carbon fibre, zinc alloy, luminous finishes. 👉 Browse more Refillable Vape Kits if you’re comparing options. What’s in the Box? 1 × XLIM Pro 2 DNA Device 1 × XLIM Stainless Steel 0.6Ω Pod 1 × XLIM Stainless Steel 0.8Ω Pod 1 × USB-C Charging Cable 1 × Lanyard 1 × User Manual Both included pods are part of the OXVA Stainless Steel Pod range — perfect for unlocking the DNA chip’s full potential. Build Quality & Design The OXVA XLIM Pro 2 DNA is built with premium materials like zinc alloy and forged carbon fibre. The luminous detailing glows subtly in low light, and the curved body feels both solid and ergonomic. Compared to other vape kits, the Pro 2 DNA feels more premium — no rattles, no creaks, just tight tolerances and smooth finishes. Performance – How Does It Vape? Flavour Using stainless steel pods, flavour is exceptional — clear, consistent, and intense. Complex e-liquids taste layered and well-defined, and switching flavours is smooth with minimal carry-over. Replay Mode Replay is a highlight — find your perfect puff, hit the heart-shaped button, and enjoy the same experience every time. No other pod kit matches this level of consistency. Anti-Burn Technology The DNA chip scans the coil 30,000 times per second to ensure it’s saturated, cutting power before a dry hit can happen. Pods last longer and taste better, making this a money-saver over time. Battery Life The 1300mAh battery lasts up to a day and a half, easily outlasting many other compact pod kits. Plus, fast USB-C charging gets you from empty to full in about 50 minutes. Airflow The slider gives precise control, letting you switch from tight MTL for nic salts to a looser RDL for freebase e-liquids. Pros & Cons Pros ✅ DNA chip = game-changing precision Replay mode ensures consistent flavour No dry hits with SS pods Premium design and build quality Excellent airflow control Long pod lifespan reduces costs All-day battery with rapid charging Compatible with the entire XLIM pod range Cons ❌ Premium price point compared to standard kits DNA features only work with SS pods Slightly heavier than some ultra-light pods OXVA XLIM Pro 2 DNA vs Alternatives OXVA NeXLIM GO Pod Kit – cheaper and simpler, but no DNA features. Standard XLIM Pro 2 – good performance, but lacks Replay/Anti-Burn and drains battery faster. Other refillable pod kits – few can compete with the DNA chip’s consistency and efficiency. If you’re browsing vape kits, the XLIM Pro 2 DNA is in a class of its own. FAQs Q: Which pods should I use?A: For Replay and Anti-Burn, use the OXVA Stainless Steel Pods. Q: How long does the battery last?A: Up to 1.5 days for average users — longer than most pod kits. Q: Can I use regular XLIM pods?A: Yes, but Replay and Anti-Burn only work with the stainless steel versions. Q: Is it beginner-friendly?A: Yes — just fill, insert, and vape. Advanced users can explore EScribe customisation. Final Verdict The OXVA XLIM Pro 2 DNA isn’t just another pod kit — it’s a true innovation in vaping. With Evolv’s DNA chipset inside, it offers: Consistently amazing flavour Dry-hit prevention that really works Replay mode for perfect puffs every time Longer battery life and pod lifespan Yes, it’s a little more expensive than standard pods, but when you factor in performance and savings on replacements, it’s excellent value. 👉 Buy the OXVA XLIM Pro 2 DNA now and experience the future of pod vaping. And don’t forget to grab your OXVA Stainless Steel Replacement Pods to unlock Replay Mode and Anti-Burn. If you’re still comparing, browse our full Vape Kits or Refillable Vape Kits collection for alternatives like the OXVA NeXLIM GO.
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Lost Mary BM6000 Prefilled Pod Kit Review – 6000 Puffs of Bold Flavour
Our hands-on Lost Mary BM6000 review: up to 6000 puffs, rechargeable USB-C power, and bold mesh-coil flavour. See why it’s the UK’s best disposable replacement — plus where to buy.
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OXVA NexLIM GO Review: The Lightest Dual Mesh Vape Kit in the UK – Now Available at The E-Cig Store
Looking for a powerful yet ultra-light pod vape? The OXVA NexLIM GO is the lightest dual mesh vape kit in the UK—offering bold flavour, a 1800mAh battery, and seamless nic salt compatibility. Discover why it’s a must-have for 2025.
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A guide to the Vaporesso XROS 5 & XROS 5 Mini pod vape kits
Discover how to use, fill, charge, and maintain the Vaporesso XROS 5 and XROS 5 Mini pod kits. Our expert guide covers airflow settings, power modes, compatible e-liquids, and how these models compare to previous XROS devices — ideal for beginners and experienced vapers alike.
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The UK’s First 12ml Pod Vape Kit Has Arrived
Meet the Hexus Go – the first 12ml refillable pod system in the UK. With dual power modes, rich flavour, and full compliance, it's the smarter way to vape.
Read moreRefillable Vapes That Hit Like a Disposable
Refillable Vapes That Hit Like a Disposable – A Simple Buyer’s Guide With the UK disposable vape ban landing on June 1st, 2025, now’s the time to switch to a refillable vape that still delivers that same satisfying hit. In this no-nonsense guide, we break down how to make the switch without the stress – covering the best refillable devices, how to find your go-to flavours (like ELF Bar Watermelon or Blue Razz Lemonade), and why nic salt e-liquids are the secret weapon for a smooth transition. Whether you’re after something pocket-friendly, powerful, or just hassle-free, we’ve got you covered.
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Nicotine Strips - What are They?
Nicoccino Menthol Nicotine Strips Looking for a fast, discreet way to curb nicotine cravings without smoking or vaping? Nicoccino Menthol Nicotine Stripsoffer a refreshing, smoke-free solution. These thin, dissolvable strips release a controlled 1 mg of nicotine directly into your bloodstream through the mouth, providing quick relief from cravings. With a crisp menthol flavor, they’re perfect for on-the-go use—no smoke, vapor, or odor involved. Whether you’re quitting smoking or just need a cleaner alternative, Nicoccino strips are an eco-friendly, convenient option that helps you manage your nicotine intake easily and discreetly.
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ZYN Nicotine Pouches Review | Best Flavours and Usage Tips
ZYN nicotine pouches offer a discreet and smoke-free way to enjoy nicotine, with a variety of flavors and strengths to suit any preference. Whether you're new to pouches or an experienced user, explore our comprehensive review to find out why ZYN is the preferred choice for many. Plus, get answers to all your burning questions in our FAQ section." This excerpt is concise, engaging, and designed to capture interest while incorporating key SEO terms to improve visibility in search engine results.
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