This in the last 30 years has come to symbolize hope in regards to chance in the western world. It also has, because of childhood games, gives the person the right to lie without social consequences or rather a 'get out of a lie free' gesture- because it holds such a high power it is often done hidden behind the back or in a pocket.
In the past it was a widespread sign of protection and a stylized way of making the sign of the cross in Christan countries, British Isles and Scandinavia.
It is also a wide spread gesture to symbolize friendship and closeness.
If it is combined with the uncrossing of fingers in Southern Italy and the Eastern Mediterranean it symbolizes a threat to end the friendship.◦
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
The Fingers Cross Gesture and it's Many Meanings
A Video Tutorial & Document of Common Facial Expressions
A computer model of the human faces showing the common facial expressions that we speak about here on this website.
Facial Action Coding System - Khappucino's Tutorial ◦
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Can You Spot the Real Smile Test?
This test is for police detectives, FBI profilers, behavioral psychologists, and YOU.
Based on the work of Dr. Paul Ekman this interactive quiz will let you know...
Can you spot the real smile?◦
This Couple
This a great picture to analyze. WOW!
The man is in the dominant position and she is in the submissive position as she curls her body into the man. Her left arm protects him and further engulfs him in her touch- it is form of a hug. Her feet are pointed toward her interest...her man.
The man protectively holds her close by hugging her around her back. His head tilts downward towards her. His hips are tilted to the side to accommodate more surface area touching each other.◦
Monday, September 28, 2009
Erika Christensen will Guest Star on Lie to Me Tonight!
The Lightman Group investigates a murder case where a woman with multiple personalities (guest star Christensen) may either be a witness or the killer. A Georgetown law student, Tricia comes to Dr. Lightman (Tim Roth) for help when she has a psychic vision of a murder. During his investigation, Lightman discovers that Tricia is actually Sophie, a woman suffering from multiple personality disorder, whose alters also include Jessie, a prostitute, and R.J., the mute male protector of the other personalities…
Meanwhile, the U.S. government hires the firm to interrogate a potential Supreme Court nominee.A reserved, self-possessed Supreme Court nominee whom the Lightman Group is charged with vetting. Simon is irked when Lightman assigns Torres (Monica Raymund) to do the job. He thinks that she is unqualified and young but comes to realize her expertise when Torres uncovers a particular issue from his past that could stand in the way of his appointment…
“The Core of It” season premiere episode of LIE TO ME airing Monday, Sept. 28 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (LTM-201) (TV-14 D, L)◦
The Forefinger Blow or Lips Touch
This has now become the widespread gesture meaning to be quiet.
Saudi Arabia is the origins of this gesture, where they would simply blow air out. Along the way it adapted to include the 'sho' like sound.◦
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Men Lie Twice As Much As Women! Top Ten Lies Men Tell
The average man lies 42 times a week to their partners, boss and work colleagues, which amounts to 2,184 a year, or 126,672 over a lifetime.
Comparatively, women told just three a day, an annual total of 1,092 or 68,796 during their life.
The poll, carried out on behalf of 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment to mark the launch of Lie to Me Season 1 on DVD, found that the phrase “Nothing’s wrong, I’m fine”, is the most common lie told by men and women.
Top ten lies men tell
1. Nothing's wrong, I'm fine
2. This will be my last pint
3. No, your bum doesn't look big in that
4. I had no signal
5. My battery died
6. Sorry, I missed your call
7. I didn't have that much to drink
8. I'm on my way
9. It wasn't that expensive
10. I'm stuck in traffic
Next Sunday I will tell you the Top Ten Lies Women Tell.◦
Fox All Access Interview with Brendan Hines
One more day to season 2, an interview with Brendan and clips from the first season to get us thinking how far the show has come in such a short amount of time.◦
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Is It Ethical to Lie to an Elderly Dementia Patient
Sometimes a lie can be forgiven. In fact, sometimes a lie is necessary. This week we'll hear from a listener wondering whether it's ethical to lie in order to reassure an elderly dementia patient.
Listen to this NPR interview.◦
Friday, September 25, 2009
Draw Me a Picture of the Murder Scene
We've looked at statements from suspects, interviewed and interrogated them, but have we asked them to draw us a picture?
Maybe we should according to leading lie researchers in the Journal of Applied Cognitive Psychology, in an article titled, 'Drawings as an Innovative and Successful Lie Detection Tool.'
Researchers hypothesized that several tendencies would become evident in the scribbles and sketches of liars not found in those of non-liars. For instance, they suspected that liars, when asked to sketch out the particulars of a location where they hadn’t really been to meet someone they hadn’t really met, would provide less detail in their drawings. They also suspected that the drawing would seem less plausible overall, and would not include a depiction of the person they allegedly met.
Finally, they hypothesized that non-liars would use a “shoulder-camera” perspective to draw the situation – a direct, line-of-sight view that previous research suggests is more indicative of truth telling. Liars, they suspected, would use an “overhead-camera” perspective, indicating a sense of detachment from the situation.
Then they set up an elaborate "spy mission" where they were to meet someone. They orchestrated the mission where, at the end, half would have to lie and half would tell the truth.
Then they asked them:
"Draw the particulars of their experience."
What they found was:
Interestingly, significantly more truth tellers included the “agent” (other person in the situation) in their drawings than did liars (80% vs. 13%).
In addition, significantly more truth tellers drew from a shoulder-camera view than liars, who by in large drew from an overhead view (53% vs. 19%).
In verbal statements, more truth tellers also mentioned the agent (53%) than liars (19%).
Using the “sketching the agent” result alone, it was possible to identify 80% of the truth tellers and 87% of the liars – results superior to most traditional interview techniques.
The main reason drawing seems to be effective in identifying liars is that they have less time to work out the details. Someone who is telling the truth already has a visual image of where they were and what happened, but liars have to manufacture the details. It’s easier to concoct something verbally than to first visualize and then create it on paper.
Source: Vrij, A., Leal, S., Mann, S., Warmelink, L., Granhag, P., & Fisher, R. (2009). Drawings as an Innovative and Successful Lie Detection Tool Applied Cognitive Psychology DOI:◦
The Invention of Lying Releases TODAY, September 25!
In an alternate reality, lying -- even the concept of a lie -- does not even exist. Everyone -- from politicians to advertisers to the man and woman on the street -- speaks the truth and nothing but the truth with no thought of the consequences. But when a down-on-his-luck loser named Mark suddenly develops the ability to lie, he finds that dishonesty has its rewards. In a world where every word is assumed to be the absolute truth, Mark easily lies his way to fame and fortune. But lies have a way of spreading, and Mark begins to realize that things are getting a little out of control when some of his tallest tales are being taken as, well, gospel. With the entire world now hanging on his every word, there is only one thing Mark has not been able to lie his way into: the heart of the woman he loves.
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The Hand Point
NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 24: Andrew N. Liveris, Chairman and CEO of The Dow Chemical Company, appears at the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) on September 24, 2009 in New York City. The Fifth Annual Meeting of the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) looks to gather prominent individuals in politics, business, science, academics and religion to discuss global issues such as climate change and peace in the Middle East. The event, founded by former president Bill Clinton after he left office, is held the same week as the General Assembly at the United Nations as most world leaders are in New York. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)
I can tell from his facial expression he is addressing a specific person with this pointing. It is an aggressive gesture, similar to the finger point.
When people point with their hand it needs to be evaluated in the context of the pointing, it could simply be to turn over the conversation...◦
Violence Caught by Camera: Do not worry this was for a film
John Hamm got into full FBI mode as he shot a scene complete with a shoot out for the film The Town in Boston, MA on September 24, 2009. Fame Pictures, Inc
What we see here is the exact moment the gun is discharged his eyes involuntary close- Something we instinctually do whenever we hear startling noise.
Check out his facial expression: see the lines in his forehead, and see the tightness in his lips and checks. This is from either from fear or stress, or both.◦
Thursday, September 24, 2009
The Gosselin Saga continues: Kate on the View and Jon Gosselin Answers Can it be Fixed? and What's up With the Rings?
Kate Gosselin on "The View" Friday jokes with Kathy Griffin. What I really notice is kate is very comfortable and gesturing a great deal... this is the first time I have seen this since the divorse announcement.
Jon Gosselin Answers Can it be Fixed? and What's up With the Rings?
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Signs of Danger and a Crime: Store Robbery Caught on Video
Aug 24, 2009
Watch this video a couple of times.
Watch the two people at the counter, they pick up on a couple of things that make them a little wary because they check out the two people that have just entered the business.
What we see are two people enter the store with their hands in their pockets, and the first one is fidgeting with what turns out to be a gun.
They are "friends" yet enter in a single file line with several feet between themselves. You'd expect them to be walking together as they approached the store, only separating as they entered through the doorway. Then it would be normal for them to stand together.
See the intensity of how they look towards their destination, when we enter a business it is more normal to glance at all parts of the area, to quickly gain an understanding of the space and to see if their are friends or foes around.
The leader is walking around, adrenaline is running through his system. He turns his back, this is to gain the courage... it is at this point where he will either chicken out or make his move...
Even though we do not see it is this case a couple of other signs of immediate danger are: are balling up hands into fist; some sort of slap of hands, chest thump, stomp of feet- something to get the blood going, eye intensity, sweat developing on the upper lip or brow, deep intake of breath.
It turns out these two victimize the clerk and still remain at large in the LA area.◦
Ashlee Simpson on Set of Melrose Place in Los Angeles
Sep 23 2009
Ashlee Simpson is seen filming an episode of Melrose Place in Los Angeles. Picture by: MAP / Splash News
Here we see Ashlee hiding her thumbs, this is a low confidence gesture. She is looking down- from other pictures of the scene- we can determine this is a form of gaze aversion.
The other actor has his hands in his pocket, this means that he doesn't not want to be open or speaking with her.◦
Our Forefingers Can Say a Great Deal
The forefinger is one of our most important fingers that we use in the world of gestures. How we use it can be have quite different meanings.
If we use it and repeatedly move it downward and upward in a chopping gesture it is acting like a mini club and symbolically brings home a point.
If used in a speech where it is held just above our head and held there, it is saying, 'pay attention' and if you do not then like a club it will come down and become the dominant gesture of pointing.
If you raise it straight up in the air whan another is speaking it is saying with a gesture, 'Excuse me.'
If used in a religious setting is is saying, 'God is my witness.'
If used by someone playing sports is is saying, 'I am number one.'◦
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Politicians Game: Watch How She Does Not Directly Answer The Question
September 22, 2009
Attorney General, Baroness Scotland being interviewed by ITNNews
The Attorney General, Baroness Scotland, says she "absolutely accepts" she should have been fined for not copying documents.
At 1:40 she is asked a question, of which she does not answer. What she does do is end up repeating many of the things she has just said to the first reporter.
This is one of the oldest tricks in the Politician's crafty book. When asked a question, without any regard to the content of the question, they will make their statement.
She has a sentence or two that has been well crafted to accept responsibility for not copying the document, implying that it was more of an administrative error than being outside the compliance of the laws of the county of which she is responsible for enforcing.◦
Clinton and Obama Handshake at Fifth Annual Meeting of the Clinton Global Initiative
Sep 22 2009
Former President Bill Clinton at the Fifth Annual Meeting of the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) held at the Sheraton Hotel. The Fifth Annual Meeting of the Clinton Global Initiative brings together leaders in politics, business, science, academics and religion to discuss global issues such as climate change and peace in the Middle East. Pictured: Former President Bill Clinton and President Barack Obama Picture by: Splash News
As we all know, when being photographed the more powerful looking is the person standing on the left, both know this. It is one of the things that they are taught when they become President by the official White House photographer. It is nice to see Obama show his respect for the former President by allowing him to stand on the left.◦
Chris Brown Tells Larry King He Doesn't Remember Beating Up Rihanna
It's hard to believe that anyone could be sympathetic toward Chris Brown after seeing what he did with his fists and teeth to his ex-girlfriend, Rihanna. But after watching him squirm on Larry King Live with his mom and attorney in tow for character references, Brown may have sunk to a new low.◦
Body Language Expert Analyzes Obama's Media Blitz and ACORN CEO on FNC
Tonya Reiman appeared on the O'Reilly Factor on September 21,2009. Tonya is on of the best at analyzing clips.
The only thing I can add to the analysis is Obama's laugh is because he is nervous, not because he found anything funny. ◦
Don't You Dare!
This picture is saying a great deal.
Hand on hip and elbow out is done to take up more space and to appear bigger.
Pursed lips says I'm not even going to respond or speak to that.
Finger upward is a gesture that means "scold," especially if it is being shaken back and forth- this says stop. It orginated as a gesture to remind the other person that God is watching.◦
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
My football team won! but I'm bummed...
MIAMI - SEPTEMBER 21: Quarterback Peyton Manning #18 of the Indianapolis Colts throws a pass against the Miami Dolphins at Land Shark Stadium on September 21, 2009 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Doug Benc/Getty Images)
Living in the Indianapolis area for the last decade+ automatically makes me a Colts fan.
Their success has taken it's toll on my sleeping schedule: too many night games as the NFL wants them in prime time television, probably because of the popularity of Colt's Quarterback Peyton Manning.
So last night I had a plan- I am an early riser, it is how I can post here and still work during the days- I'll tape it from half time on... this way I can fast forward though the commercials. PERFECTION.
I got up extra early, headed downstairs, checked my email really quick -to make sure there wasn't a pressing emergency consulting job arriving from overseas... they usually are crime related so I do them ASAP- and as I'm doing this...
My wife gets up and asks, "What are you doing up so early?"
I respond, "I taped the last part of the game last night, going to watch it this morning."
"Do you want to know what happened?" She Asks!
DO YOU WANT TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENED!
DO YOU WANT TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENED!!!
DO YOU WANT TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENED!!!!!!
SHE ASKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am nearly crying!!!!!!!
From her tone when she asked the question, I already did. Even though it was subtle, I knew.
For an experiment say the question she said to me a few times, ask once if you knew the Colts won; lost; do not really know...
Remember the warnings I have given before, "Do you really want to learn about this stuff? Because once you learn it you cannot unlearn it!"
I still watched it, it would have been a better win for me had I not known the result because they were down for almost the entire game and the offensive wasn't on the field hardly at all. I do like the Miami wildcat offensive and thought they were going to beat us with it... it will be interesting to see it at the college level, incorporating it with the option...◦
LA Premier of 'The Invention of Lying'
At the LA premiere of 'The Invention of Lying', Jennifer Garner revealed the tricks and untruths she got up to on the set of the film with her director /co-star Ricky Gervais and Rob Lowe. (Sept. 22)◦
Emma Roberts on the Set of Valentine's Day Shows Subtle Fear
Sep 12 2009
Emma Roberts on the set of Valentine's Day eating ice cream. Pictured: Emma Roberts Picture by: Clint Brewer / Splash News
Here we see subtle fear. While she does raise her eyebrows, we do not see full widening of the eye lids. In her forehead we see tightness of muscles. We also see a cross between fear and surprise in her mouth... it is opening like surprise, but the lips are showing some tension and this tension is something we see in fear. We can assume she has just learned something that was a total shock and it has emotionally placed her in a state of unease.◦
Jeff Hancock Talks About Deception
Digital deception is rampant, hard-wired and here to stay, says Jeff Hancock, professor of communication at Cornell.◦
Briefings in the White House Can be Difficult
WASHINGTON - SEPTEMBER 18: United Nations Ambassador Susan Rice (R) answers reporters' questions during a press briefing with Press Secretary Robert Gibbs at the White House September 18, 2009 in Washington, DC. Rice gave some details about U.S. President Barack Obama's participation in next week's UN general assembly. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
What we see above is an aggressive gesture- the fist (which is better than pointing which is what she is trying not to do)- from the United Nations Ambassador and the Obama Press Secretary not liking what she is saying, evidenced by the way he unconsciously moves his hand to his mouth.
In this picture we see purse lips by both, this is a sign that they do not want to speak about the reporters question. They both have their eyes in a frown/scowl, like a parent would if they were unhappy with a child.◦
Monday, September 21, 2009
George Clooney and Vera Farmiga at the Premiere of the Movie, 'Up in the Air.'
George Clooney walked the red carpet at the premiere of his latest movie, 'Up In The Air', at the Toronto Film Festival where the actor and his fellow cast members revealed how much fun the film is. (Sept. 21)
For once, George Cloonely should not have all of our attention... Vera Farmiga does some things worthy of attention to us.
It is about 35 seconds into the news story.
Vera is scratching the side of her neck and this is a sign of doubt or uncertainty and is very noticeable- she may not fully believe in what she is saying.
Neck rub is seeking reassurance and comfort, she is uneasy speaking about the romance.
She moves her hand up to above her left eyebrow, this is a form of eye blocking where she is not liking what she is seeing... she also turns away... as if turning her back on the statements.
Shoulder shrug, as she says, "I don't know," this is another form of uncertainty.
Scratches her nose, a clear sign of deception.
These are all unconscious gestures that have meaning. This is a clear sign of the gestures not matching the words.
If I was to coach her, I'd tell her to not touch her face, head, or neck when speaking; and ACT for gosh sakes and have prepared thoughts for the red carpet.◦
Housekeeping Chief Arrested in NYC Hotel Killing
A housekeeping manager at a luxury hotel next to Central Park has been arrested in the death of a woman who was found in a room strangled with a knife sticking from her neck, police said on Sunday. (Sept. 21)
Nothing hidden in this video, but I wanted you to hear something. A older blond woman is interviewed towards the end of the video. After every statement she asks, "Right?"
Now I believe this to be just a habit for her... but had she been a suspect or person of interest (which she is not) this type of asking for reassurance after a statement is a sign of deception- In this particular case she needs for us to accept that it is a place where important or special people stay and she is wanting the feedback that this is the case- a statement should stand on it's own merit we shouldn't need feedback from others immediately after a statement is made.
If someone was lying in a statement, it might be natural for them to illicit feedback that puts them at ease, and lets them know that they are being believed.
You could probably think of other words that would have the same effect like, See? You know what I mean? You know? Understand?◦
My Head Hurts
When we see this it is known to signify tension and my head hurts.
If she actually has a headache this would be a gesture to relieve the tension and pain by rubbing her temples.
It can also be done to show that she is in distress. We could imagine her hearing something and doing this gesture to signal, "boy my head hurts" symbolically.
It is a gesture showing some sort of internal struggle.◦
1 Week Until LIE TO ME's Second Season Starts!!!
The second season of hit drama Lie To Me will premiere Monday, September 28 (9:00 PM/ET).
Titled "The Core of It"◦
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Classic Case of Answering a Question with a Question
Fox News' Jesse Watters speaks to ThinkProgress about his Ambush Interviews.
My first thought was this was a worthless piece of unprofessional interview footage... but then I'm thinking here is a guy who makes his living getting other people to answer questions when they do not want to; he must have some tricks up his sleeve and has learned a few things over the years, and he has.
Notice how he doesn't directly answer the questions. "Called her office twice" is not her directly refusing to appear on the show...
Questions answered with a question- means it is a sensitive question and the person may be stalling for time to come up with an answer.
He effectively stalled for three minutes, what he did correctly:
- Unemotional.
- Friendly.
- Appeared to want to answer the questions (even though he didn't).
- Never overacted, when he asked can you repeat the question, neutral.
Because he did all these things he appeared professional.
It still doesn't have any journalistic qualities but it is interesting to view from a interviewing technique perspective.◦
Emotions and Deceit
"Under the influence of strong feeling we are easily deceived.
The coward under the influence of fear and the
lover under that of love have such illusions that the
coward owing to a trifling resemblance thinks he
sees an enemy and the lover his beloved." -Aristotle.
This is the a problem with the "natural lie detectors," if they become emotionally attached they can lose some of their ability to spot inconsistencies.
It is also the reason the traveling carnivals have both thrill rides and carnival games intermingled. After getting off a ride, people generally want to extend that excitement to the next activity- giving some money to the guy who offers a chance to win a prize.
In the above picture, she is frustrated and she leaves open a door for someone else to manipulate and deceive her. For instance, She could be vunerable to her boss, who could play on her frustration and say something that gets her to work long hours.
People like con artists and predators will manipulate emotions to control those around them.
It is important to recognize the effects that our own emotions have on our ability to make good decisions and detect deception.◦
Hope You Are Getting Ready for 'Lie to Me!'
Here is a tease of things to come this season:
Loker studies group dynamics after Black Friday stampede and Lightman goes to Afghanistan to interrogate American Taliban.
Final Editing stages of an episode where Lightman and his daughter go to Mexico...
They've already filmed an episode in Las Vegas, and it looks great!
If you are a fan, you are going to be blown away by this season!!!◦
Saturday, September 19, 2009
More to Love: Luke Conley Proposes to Tali
As you know, I usually comment on the show within a day or so from the airing. There was one thing I saw that confirmed what I had been saying all season about Malissa and I held off posting because there was one thing that bothered me about the proposal with Tali- and I didn't want to appear negative about Tali because it was the right decision.
Malissa
One thing I notice is she is not immediately upset or emotional, and is stoic. While someone should be guarded with their emotions when getting the boot on national television, if she really wanted him like she has said from the start we should see several conflicting emotions, sadness, anger, and some sort of questioning of what just happened- even if it was subtle. She doesn't use his name, and often did not throughout the series and instead uses the impersonal "He." She doesn't become emotional until she is well away from Luke, but if you listen to her is doesn't start until she thinking and talking about the effect on her- not them as a couple.
Tali
Since you have seen the video before, you may want to watch it without the sound so you can concentrate on the gestures and nonverbal clues.
What we have to remember what I see here is a big time moment in both of their lives; it is the start of something... What I see here is not necessarily indicative of their relationship, or future...
When she is walking up Luke shows contempt?!?!
When they are together and Luke is talking, Tali exhales to relieve stress and shows shame when she looks downward when she believes she is going home.
Now to the proposal...
He kneels, she raises her hands to her face. This is a subconscious gesture of protection.
She is showing a great deal of nervousness with the way her hands are shaking. Completely understandable.
He asks, she hesitates; she looks to her right; she needed to process the question and could not look at him. When we are in a conversation with someone and they look to the side in a stressful situation, they are subconsciously looking for an exit. She subtly shakes her head no, and then says yes.
Who can blame her, it is an unreal situation and who wouldn't have doubts about some things. She shows some real smiles walking out...
In the end the 26-year-old fashion stylist/decorator from New York said "yes."
- Good Luck to Them, I hope it works out.◦
Friday, September 18, 2009
Survivor Season 19 Episode 1
View the video on tv.com
As soon as the video start we see disgust when Jeff asks Betsy who is the weak link.
Then a head jut from Russell H, see how he sticks out and upward with his chin. It is an aggressive gesture.
Betsy then gives us an expression that tells us she does not like the confrontation aspect of the game, good luck to her!?!?!
Then we see Mike stroke his chin in a reassuring, pacifying gesture.
Eye roll from Betsy...
We are only seconds into the video!
But the moment of the whole show is next:
See how Russell is holding his hands together in a steeple. This is an high confidence gesture. You see this all the time in the business world.
But Russell makes a mistake! he actually says, "but it doesn't mean I am walking around making alliances with everybody."
From the beginning everybody who he has talked about an alliance knows he is capable of lying. Also notice when he says this hands come apart from that high confidence gesture, and see the faces of the two people who he had alliances with. He has exposed himself. I'm sure he will pay for this mistake at some point...◦
Why Raymond Clark Killed Annie Le: Territory
It is being widely reported that Co-workers told police that Clark was a "control freak" who viewed the laboratory and its mice as his territory, according to a law enforcement official who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the investigation is ongoing and many details remain sealed.
This is why he killed her.
Territorial parameters are the norm in our society, as they are in every society. We respect our neighbor's property lines because each of us is King of our own castle, and in our castle we have the right to be dominant and protective.
Raymond Clark wrongly believed the lab was "his" and he had full control of this area.
There have been similar stories of people protecting his territory, like the man who shot a boy for simply walking across his front yard...
It is normal to feel confident and comfortable in our own territory, but when we stake out a territory that technically is not our own there can be a great deal of conflict because everybody is not under the same impression of who is in charge and who has the right to be the most dominant and in control of the territory.
If someone believes they are in charge and others do not, their will be a feelings of disrespect and the social norms of dominant and submissive body language that we accept as we interact in different territories are challenged.◦
H1N1: Learn From OCD Sufferers and a Body Language Expert
We've have literally heard it a thousand times, "WASH YOUR HANDS!"
We get it, but not once have you heard some new and useful information that could literally save your life. Until today!
Okay the straight facts, we touch our face - often subconsciously- all day and night long. We touch our face with the pads of our fingers. We never really touch our face with the backside of our hands and fingers.
I'll admit I'm a LITTLE bit of a germaphobe, and probably do a couple of things that COULD be considered OCD like.
Let's put it all together now...
What follows is some things that limit the transference of germs (that I may or might not do) that are small changes that would help:
- Push the elevator with a knuckle instead of the pad of your finger(s).
- You can open doors with your fist, if it opens outward, instead of your hands.
- Another option is to turn around and open it with your backside, works when your with someone... if your not, you might look weird, unless you are carrying a bunch of stuff in your hands.
- With doors to building, never use the actual bar that everybody uses. Go ahead and push on the glass, sure it might leave a smudge, but desperate times call for desperate measures.
- Try not to be the first one through the doors, plan entry and exit strategies.
- Hand sanitizers and wipes are a must.
- Avoid anything that is touched often, grocery carts, armrests, self service soda dispensers, anything on a restaurant table. I know I'm going overboard, and it is impossible, but minimize and hand sanitizers and wipes are handy.
-DON'T SHARE DRINKS, food, etc with your family! I know, "but their family" but they go to places like schools, and playgrounds, and disgusting work places- Who knows -maybe when your not around- they are allowing the dog to lick their mouth!!! You can touch them and show them you love them in normal ways. Just go get your own glass of Coke.
- Public Bathrooms, I could write a book about these areas. Rest assured you need to touch everything with a paper towel in your hands... not saying anything else about these terrible places because I need to go to a better place in my mind, and I'm getting antsy just thinking about it.
Hope it helps.◦
The Converstation with the Two Doctors Continues
The doctor in the scrubs is holding his finger in front of his mouth, this is a sign he doesn't like what he is hearing. He also is showing tension in his forehead. His eyes are wide open which means he is highly vested in what is being said, because he is wanting to take in every detail. What we are seeing here is fear on the part of this doctor.
The doctor in the lab coat is speaking, but is not looking directly at the other doctor. This could be for a split second or for the entire conversation, we have no way to know. If he is referring to something in the chart, this is not significant. If the doctor holds this position for longer than a second or two, we can determine he does not have a great deal of confidence in what he is saying or he could be avoiding confrontation with the other doctor.◦
The Many Meanings of the Thumbs Up Gesture
It means 'Okay' in most every country. It is an adaption of gestures made in the roman Colosseum (much different than what is seen in the movie The Gladiator- it was more a symbol of the sword and the covered up thumb meant to spare the gladiators life, while the thrusts toward the gladiator meant death), but most of us know it because of the Fonzie.
In Japan is is a gesture that symbolizes a male companion. It can also mean the number 5.◦
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Photos of Raymond Clark III
Raymond Clark III, a Yale University animal research technician, was arrested Sept. 17, 2009 and charged with murdering Yale grad student Annie Le.
48 Hours Mystery is already working on a show. They have posted a series of pictures here.
I do use photographs here on the website a great deal, but we all understand that the pictures I show are only capturing a sliver in time. What I see in one picture does not necessarily equal a personality trait. I mention all this because it would be easy to concentrate on negative things in these pictures, and super easy to see him in devil's make up and say that we should have known- Not true. A series of a few photos is not a full picture of that person's life.
When I look through these photos a couple of them stand out. He gives us sideways glances or looking out of the corner of his eyes in a couple. The sideways glance communicates either interest or hostility. When it is combined with slightly raised eyebrows or a smile, it communicates interest and is frequently used as a courtship signal. If it is combined with down-turned eyebrows, furrowed brow or the corners of the mouth down-turned, it signals a suspicious, hostile or critical attitude. I believe we are looking at interest in most of them; what I find interesting he also juts his chin out or holds his head back slightly which is saying he is better, or " I'm looking down my nose at you" gesture. One photo where he is giving a sideways look is number 15, and it is hostile.
In none of them does he show a true smile, where the creases on the sides of his eyes crinkle. He is giving us a social smile. (Later in the month I will be doing a post about a study that shows high school year book pictures can signal the likelihood of divorce later on in life.)
When he is fooling/goofing around, we see flashbulb eyes.
In the candid shots we see very neutral facial expressions and posture.
Obviously none of these photos are all that different from what we'd expect, they do not scream out warnings, and at best there might be subtle signals of his personality.
There is also a set of photographs being circulated from his facebook site, they are mainly with him and his fiancée. I can say this: in almost each and every one they are leaning into each other and are tilting their heads towards each other. This is a sign of a good relationship.◦
"Keep F@#^king that chicken" News anchor curses on air: Spontaneous Fear or Surprise?
Okay, this takes the cake... Legendary New York broadcaster Ernie Anastos had a momentary lapse of reason Wednesday night.
Watch the anchorwoman! Surprise or Fear
Her lips are tight and drawn together so it is fear; her eyes are wide open which is a sign of either fear or surprise. The lips tell us it is fear.◦
Rep. Joe Wilson on Obama Outburst: "It Was Spontaneous"
South Carolina Representative, Joe Wilson, has come under an enormous amount of scrutiny since he called out "You Lie!" while President Obama was giving a speech to Congress last week. Wilson, a Republican, claims he was frustrated by parts of the health care bill that he believes will cover illegal immigrants.◦
Two Doctors Talking in a Nurse's Station
Here we see a great deal going on.
The doctor in the scrubs, by placing his hand on his hips, is making himself appear bigger and takes up more space.
The doctor in the lab coat is holding his hands in a self pacifying style; he is providing himself some self comfort by holding and rubbing his hands together.◦
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Categories of Gestures: Affect Displays
These gestures are facial expressions combined with their posture to convey and reflect the intensity of an emotion.◦
Extraneous Information
Whenever you notice extraneous information be on alert!!! No matter if you are a 911 operator or a manager attempting to get to the bottom of who screwed up. YOU DO NOT WANT TO END UP THE DUNCE.
Did you know in one study, 96 percent of the 911 homicide callers that were eventually found guilty of the offense- the call contained extraneous information.
People add extraneous information to appear to be open to talking about matters, to appear to have more information that is credible, are leaking what really happened in an indirect way, or out of nervousness.
If you are hearing extraneous information- note if they are attempting to divert attention, indirectly leaking the truth, accounting for time, or giving you an previously unknown clue or area of concern. Investigate.◦
Okay, this is an Unique Gesture
Sep 16 2009
Celebrities photographed at the premiere of 'Coco Before Chanel' held at the Paris Theater, in New York City. Pictured: Emily Mortimer and Alessandro Nivola Picture by: Splash News
I have never seen this in a photograph before, a woman placing her hand on his stomach. While I know why she is doing it- She is pregnant (hopefully!?!?) and this gesture is something she does to herself a great deal of the time and has huge meaning to her, and here she does the same thing to another. I understand it- it still looks odd.◦
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Voice Analysis of Misty Cummings Was Flawed!
I am sorry to have to release this information. I have been very clear about how I feel about this case from the start.
I use the voice analysis software made from the same company that the interviewer uses in this case. Unfortunately, the interviewer has made a mistake when conducting the analysis which I show below.
When you begin the analysis you need to calibrate the software with the interviewee's voice, unfortunately the interview did not do this correctly and this can be seen in the video. He began the calibration when he was explaining the calibration process. In fact from what I can determine his voice was used for a majority of the calibration process. His voice is quite different from Misty's and this will invalidate the results. Voice analysis works with the best baseline.
With zoom in of the software,
I have completed the voice analysis with the video and there are times where his software skews results as a result of this mistake.◦
A Slight Problem with Obama's Security
Do not worry- the Secret Service are always professional and operate with military precision protecting the President.
Pretend you are the Agent in Charge of the President's security.
With every movement there is a post mortem analysis to see if anything could be improved.
Do you see anything?
What is slightly concerning, that I see more with this President than any other President, is what others call the President's rock star effect. Some of the non Secret Service protection staff steal glimpses at the President. This does two things, they are not concentrating on threats that would come from outward points. Also these glances will attract split second glances from Secret Services Agents as they quickly ensure their are no threats to the President.◦
Bill Clinton and Glasses
Sep 9 2009
NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 09: Former U.S. President Bill Clinton, who serves as the United Nations special envoy for Haiti, speaks at the Security Council as Haitian Prime Minister Michele Pierre-Louis (R) looks looks on September 9, 2009 in New York, New York. Clinton visited the fledgling Caribbean country in July to assess how best to support the government in its recovery efforts and its national development. With an annual estimated gross domestic product (GDP) of 390 U.S. dollars per person, Haiti is the poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere, (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images)
Glasses are considered props in the body language world. Props are an inanimate object that can build image, is something that we can hide behind, and is generally an accessory.
Now Bill is no spring chicken anymore and does have to use reading glasses, but everybody has a way with reading glasses. Some put them on and off only when they are reading, others will play with them, or excessively clean them, and still others, like Bill leave them on all the time.
When you see someone remove his or her glasses, and repeatedly wiping the lenses when her glasses are not needing cleaning, you may be right in thinking that he or she is stalling for time.
If he or she then sucks or chews on the earpiece, she’s unconsciously indicating that she’s seeking reassurance.
I think Bill does so because studies have shown that people wearing glasses, whether male or female, are perceived as intelligent, knowledgeable, conservative, and genuine.
Bill has consciously created a perfect post presidency image that positions himself as an advisor and statesman who can give speeches, attend symposiums, and help all around the world.◦
A Great New Interrogation Show in Development at the A & E Network!
If you've seen First 48, After the First 48, Crime 360
Cold Case Files, Man Hunters, Dog the Bounty Hunter....
You know A & E has got the "best" real crime shows.
They currently are working with the Nebraska State Patrol and will also be working with police departments across the country.
Live interrogations ...
Real interrogations ...
Hot interrogations ...
Homicides, Robberies, Auto Theft, Fraud
Arsons, Rapes, Gang Crimes, Cold Cases...
They will have them all....!
More information to follow!!!◦
Monday, September 14, 2009
Something to Watch on Television
Set the recorder!!!
Monday 21st, September 2009
5:00am
Science of Interrogation
on The National Geographic Channel◦
Misty Cummings Statements
I have watched Misty explain the events of the evening so many times, because she has stated them so many times to different media outlets.
There are a couple of things that stand out, she is very intense about discussing the the washing of the blanket. In fact she states this section of the evening with so much conviction I have to ask why... In many ways it is unnecessary to go into such detail about the washer and how long it takes for the washer and dryer.
There is also something curiously missing in her account, she never says what time she went to bed, she also does not provide any detail of the evening... was she watching TV while she washed the blanket? There is a time gap in her account of the evening because there are very few references to time, in fact in almost every case it is the interviewer who attempts to define time the times of the evening- She is uncommitted to the times.
Misty's Hypnosis Session (There is debate about the trance, she does use a great deal of gesturing for being in a trance)
◦
2 Weeks Until LIE TO ME's Second Season Starts
The second season of hit drama Lie To Me will premiere Monday, September 28 (9:00 PM/ET).◦
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Military Hands
ARLINGTON, VA - SEPTEMBER 11: (L-R)Defense Secretary Robert Gates, U.S. President Barack Obama and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen stand together after laying a flower wreath during a 9/11 Rememberance Ceremony at the Pentagon September 11, 2009 in Arlington, Virginia. Obama joined staff and family members at the Pentagon to comemorate the eighth anniversary of the September 11 attacks. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
In a previous post concerning the 40m London Heist, I mentioned the way one of the robbers held his hand and fingers suggest military experience, check out past post.
In the above picture check out Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen and how he holds his hands compared to the President and the Defense Secretary, the fingers are curved upward. The way he holds is hands is no accident and is taught to military people when standing in uniform.◦
NeNe Leakes from ''The Real Houswives of Atlanta''...
Sep 12 2009
NeNe Leakes from ''The Real Houswives of Atlanta'' attends a booksigning for her book ''Never Make the Same Mistake Twice'' at Eso Won Books on September 11, 2009 in Los Angeles, California Pictured: NeNe Leakes Picture by: London Entertainment / Splash
Palms ups, I have nothing to hide and I am being honest.◦
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Obama More Than a Simple Handshake
ARLINGTON, VA - SEPTEMBER 11: U.S. President Barack Obama greets family members of victims of the 9/11 attack during a rememberance ceremony at the Pentagon September 11, 2009 in Arlington, Virginia. Obama joined staff and family members at the Pentagon to comemorate the eighth anniversary of the September 11 attacks. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
Here we see Obama give more than a handshake by touching the family member's arm it creates another touch connection, which conveys more emotion.
There are different degrees of emotion even in an handshake, there is hands only; and the free hand touches forearm or upper arm; there is the free hand on the shoulder; and there is the free hand enclosing the hands that are shaking in a "hand hug." Each progressively conveys more emotion and attachment.◦
Categories of Gestures: Regulators
This type of gesture support the interaction and communication between two or more people. These include the movement of the head, neck, eyes, hand gestures, and posture.
They are most often used to help each other take control of the conversation, for example when a person is done talking they hold out their hands, palms up to invite the other to respond. There are also subtle ways to turn the conversation to another, such as ask a question and raise the eyebrows in anticipation of a response.
In the above example we see this young woman attempting to stop further conversation; and with her eyebrows it is clear if you push the issue it will be meet with anger or aggression.◦
When Do Mobs Become Violent?
Sep 5 2009
BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 05: Members of the English Defence League hold make shift signs as they shout towards Police and anti-right wing protesters during a rally on September 5, 2009 in Birmingham, England. The English Defence League (EDL) are holding their demonstration in various locations around the city with minor scuffles amongst Saturday shoppers. The EDL slogan is Peacefully Protesting Against Militant Islam and claim that 'it is not an act of Fascism to oppose Terrorists and Sharia' (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)
Mobs are interesting organisms. Whenever a group of people gather with common interests they automatically become more powerful than if they act alone. This power can give- at least some of them- the courage to push the limits of acceptable behavior.
If you are in the position to make decisions as to weather to disperse the crowd you need to look at certain things that I will outline here.
- Intensity of emotion. Track emotion. Are people becoming more intense? Are they chanting?
- Are they burning off adrenaline by jumping up and down, or pushing back and forth.
- Are they showing anger in their faces with wide open eyes, or staring, or snarles?
- Are they balling up their fists. This is a clear sign of aggression.
Sep 5 2009
BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 05: Members of the English Defence League hold make shift signs as they shout towards Police and anti-right wing protesters during a rally on September 5, 2009 in Birmingham, England. The English Defence League (EDL) are holding their demonstration in various locations around the city with minor scuffles amongst Saturday shoppers. The EDL slogan is Peacefully Protesting Against Militant Islam and claim that 'it is not an act of Fascism to oppose Terrorists and Sharia' (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)
Other things to ask:
- What are the demographics of the group. Would these people generally be violent if they were acting alone? Are they a wide range of ages, different genders, etc.
- What time of day is it? If the group can work under the cover of darkness there is a higher chance of violence.
- Are they protesting with any type of facial covering that would make them harder to identify.
- Is is possible that the participants had been drinking or using drugs?
- Is it celebratory mob (like winning a sporting event)? If this turns disobedient it is usually burning off adrenaline.
Mobs can be one of the hardest things to predict and this often puts people in positions of authority ill at ease. In the face of aggression, they will meet the mob with their own aggression. This often times leads to more violence. It may appear that the mob is testing authority by turning over and/or burning a car but in actuality they are burning off adrenaline.
When to make the move to disperse the crowd?
- It is always better to move in when the emotion is on the downward trend.
- If they are attempting to claim more area, such as moving a police line back.
- If the mob is turning on itself and begins to act out violently against each other.◦
Friday, September 11, 2009
Obama Doesn't Like What He is Hearing?
WASHINGTON - SEPTEMBER 10: U.S. President Barack Obama gestures as he speaks on health insurance reform at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building of the White House on September 10, 2009 in Washington, DC. Obama continued the discourse, a day after he addressed the joint session of Congress, urging passage of his national health care plan. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images)
When we are listening to something we do not like, sometimes we will subconsciously touch our ear.
When we are talking and touch our own ear, it can be a sign we do not like what we are saying, and it even can be a sign of deception. Memorize this facial expression, this is a face that Obama uses when he is saying something he doesn't quite believe himself or he has just taken a shot "at the other side."◦
Michael Vick on Dog Fighting
Check out what I said about this interview when it first aired, Is Micheal Vick Remorseful?◦
Turning the Conversation Over
WASHINGTON - SEPTEMBER 10: U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission Inspector General David Kotz testifies about the failure of the SEC to discover Bernard L. Madoff's ponzi scheme during a hearing before the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee on Capitol Hill on September 10, 2009 in Washington, DC. Kotz said the ponzi scheme was not uncovered by the commission due to Madoff's savvy and reputation, combined with incompetent work by SEC investigators. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
Here we see a gesture that is most commonly used to turn over the the conversation to another. By showing the palm it conveys honesty and openness.◦
How Could I Be So Blind!
Hindsight...
We want to believe the lies, we ignore the signs, and we are duped.
Why?
Well, for each lie there could be a different reason: cannot deal with the change that would occur after the truth comes out; do not want to accept the betrayal; if is easier to live in the shadow of doubt than face the consequences of a lie; and there could be many,many more reasons...
It is important to remember that catching the person in an untruth may not be as important and being in a position to be able to start coping with the aftermath.◦
Thursday, September 10, 2009
What is wrong with this picture?
Cameron Diaz and Seth Rogen film an assassination attempt scene and on set of of the film The Green Hornet.
Here we have about 10 actors and one person has ruined the shot because they are not playing the part with their body language. Can you pick him/her out?
It is the photographer in the purple. After a gunshot everybody does something to make themselves to appear smaller. See how those in front are ducking way down... this is by design so the main actors can still be seen/filmed. She also does not show any fear in her face... the lips should be tight and/or we should see flashbulb eyes.
We can see if she makes the film. She would only be on screen for at most a second.
Extras can break a scene quicker than the main characters... it is not always their fault- if they do not have enough information about the scene.◦
More to Love: Episode Seven
Well, then there were two: Malissa and Tali!
Malissa and Luke Date
Once again Malissa shows more happiness when she is being interviewed than when she is actually on the date. They both are nervous and walking around the elephant in the room- what Luke has finally picked up on... what I noticed from the second show she IS 'in it to win it' and doesn't have true feelings for Luke- She is still relying on her sex appeal to get Luke instead of connecting with him on a personal basis. There is a awkwardness with them both and they are reserved. She has always been a front runner with Luke from the first show, but there is a chink in her armour.
If he picks her in the final show?!?! He knows what is up and he would be giving up... they are not going to make it as a couple.
Tali and Luke Date
There is much more physical contact between the two of them than the other women still on the show.
In the below clip we see a perfect example of subtle sadness. It is also a great example of adrenaline combined with stress, see how she interlaces her hands, looks down in shame and is physically experiencing the stress throughout her body...
In the below video Luke shows contempt when she states she hasn't been in the ocean... this could mean he doesn't feel the 'fear' of the ocean is rational or it could be more personal...
Tali is consistent with her emotions, she is honest when she is with Luke and visibly is sad and stressed when she is being interviewed talking about her relationship with Luke.
Take a look at the next clip, we see true smiles and this is quite different from the interactions he had with Malissa. Notice how when she is being interviewed and she rubs her neck, she is self pacifying (making herself feel better with self touch). She is very nervous because of the situation- the show and the other 2 girls- and if this would have been a normal dating situation we wouldn't see her being so reserved and guarded with her emotions.
Luke does not use 'hedge words' with Tali- with Malissa he said 'could see' and with Tali he say they could overcome things together. In his mind he has already has crossed the bridge with Tali and willing to take on the challenges they may have.
Many and Luke Date
In many ways their date was more like a business meeting... Throughout the day she shows subtle sadness and you can see in this clip,
Mandy says Luke is calm, but they both are calm and there is not the same emotional intensity that we have seen with the other dates...
I didn't see one true smile from either Malissa, Mandy and Luke when they were on the dates. But with Tali and Luke I saw them both with true smiles several times...
Where do we go from here? Well, I now see more of a connection with Luke and Tali... but that doesn't mean she will be choosen. I believe if he chooses Tali it is for all the right reasons. If he chooses Malissa he is giving up because he knows what Malissa's deal is.◦
Andre Bauer, South Carolina's Lieutenant Governor Rumor that He is Gay
While I agree with the Lieutenant Governor that it is a silly question; and the rumor and the validity of it normally would not have bearing on being good at your job... Unfortunately when you choose to be a politician everything becomes fair game. I'm not from South Carolina and do not know what party either the Lieutenant Governor or Governor Sanford are from. I do know they both are slinging stones at each other. Good ole Politics...
When asked about rumors about the gay "smear" campaign he says, "I don’t really think a proper question. I think it’s a little bit ridiculous and it’s sad that politics has gotten to that. But if somebody had a question I didn't have a problem going ahead and hearing it and getting it out of the way because I don't want it to linger, much like this other problem is lingering. I want to move forward. I want to talk about real issues, how to get improved job growth. How you get education to a better level than it is now, how you fix the budget problem that we've got — not continue to dwell on some silly question in the first place. … [By answering the question] I sure hope it ends the issue. … I don't want to continue to have to hear about it."
What he doesn't do is answer the question, this is an area of concern to me.
In fact he states, "But if somebody had a question I didn't have a problem going ahead and hearing it and getting it out of the way because I don't want it to linger, much like this other problem is lingering." where he only says he is willing to hear it but doesn't say he will address or answer it.
I am wondering how he will avoid the question from lingering if he does not address it at some point?◦
Simon Cowell Too Busy for Dinner With Barack Obama
With the new season of American Idol just around the corner, I thought it would be nice to take a look at an old video of Simon talking about not having dinner with Obama before he became the President.◦
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
One Student Shows Contempt
Sep 8 2009
PEMBROKE PINES, FL - SEPTEMBER 08: Dakilah Seay listens, along with other students from Pines Middle School, as U.S. President Barack Obama addresses school children across the nation from Wakefield High School in Arlington, Virginia on September 8, 2009 in Pembroke Pines, Florida. Nationwide, some conservatives over the past week had worried that Obama would use the speech to promote his political agenda. In the speech the President urged children to work hard and stay in school. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)◦
Friendly Fires at the Mercury Music Prize 2009 Feel Like Royalty
Sep 9 2009
Friendly Fires at the Mercury Music Prize 2009, Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London 8th September 2009 (Photo by Steve Fothergill/Entertainment Press)
What we see here is the stance most often seen with royalty. Whenever we leave our torso exposed it conveys that the person feels safe from physical attack. It also conveys that we are expecting a certain amount of space between ourselves and others because we are not open to shaking hands or any type of physical interaction.◦
Categories of Gestures: Illustrators
These gestures are used to help illustrate spoken words.
It could be to show someone how big of a fish you caught or what direction you just traveled from.
These types of gestures help convey the spoken message, used more often when if you relied on only the spoken word it would take longer to convey the message.◦
Sex in the City 2 Filming in NYC
Sep 6 2009
Sarah Jessica Parker manhandles her luggage on the set of 'Sex and the City 2' in NYC. Pictured: Sarah Jessica Parker Picture by: Jackson Lee / Splash News
We can always count on Sarah Jessica Parker to show us a few things about reading people and the art of making personality stand out. Here we see a person with way too much stuff, all different colors, completed with a clear plastic bag.
We see wide open eyes, and person who because of all of her suitcases is in trouble, and is seeking some assistance.
It is clear she will be struggling to wrangle all these suitcases in her signature pearls all the way to her destination.◦
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