Rodrigo Martino

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This study investigated how patients with advanced oral cavity cancer make decisions about their treatment, which often involves significant surgery and reconstruction. Out of 37 participants, nearly 19% experienced major confusion about their treatment choices, even though most felt confident in their decision-making abilities. The research highlights the need for better support tools to help patients and doctors communicate about treatment options, which could lead to more informed and less stressful decisions. Who this helps: This helps patients facing advanced oral cavity cancer and their doctors.

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This study looked at how a specific enzyme called New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase (NDM), which makes bacteria resistant to antibiotics, acts differently in various types of bacterial hosts, especially when there is a lack of zinc. Researchers found that the stability of NDM varies between hosts because of different proteins that break down NDM when zinc levels are low. In particular, a version of NDM called NDM-5 was found to be more stable and helped bacteria resist antibiotics better in these conditions. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors and researchers working on new treatments for antibiotic-resistant infections.

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This study looked at a serious condition called EBV-positive post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (EBV+ PTLD) that can happen after patients receive stem cell transplants. Out of over 14,500 transplants studied, 170 cases of EBV+ PTLD were found, with a peak occurrence between 2010 and 2017. Treatments combining a specific drug called rituximab and lowering immune suppression helped about 62% of patients who responded to the treatment, significantly improving their survival chances—73.4% lived for at least two years compared to only 10.7% for those who did not respond. Who this helps: This research benefits patients who have undergone stem cell transplants and are at risk for EBV+ PTLD.

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This study looked at how well patient-reported symptoms of swallowing difficulties (called dysphagia) match up with imaging tests in head and neck cancer patients undergoing radiation treatment. Researchers found that a score of 6 or higher on the swallowing and choking questions could indicate moderate to severe swallowing issues, with high accuracy in identifying problems (92-95%). However, adjusting the thresholds to lower scores improved the early detection of these issues, which is crucial for better patient care. Who this helps: This benefits head and neck cancer patients by improving the early detection and management of swallowing problems.

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This study examined the outcomes of stem cell transplants from haploidentical donors (those who are half-matched, usually family members) compared to mismatched unrelated donors when matched donors are not available. Researchers found that both types of donors resulted in similar two-year survival rates without complications: 47% for haploidentical transplants, 52% for mismatched unrelated transplants using a specific treatment to prevent complications (PTCy), and 43% for those using other treatments. The findings are important because they demonstrate that both donor options can be effective for patients in need, particularly as the availability of perfectly matched donors decreases. Who this helps: This helps patients needing stem cell transplants who don’t have perfectly matched donors available.

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This study looked at how the dropping water levels in the Mar Chiquita Lagoon in Argentina have increased the frequency of salt dust storms over 20 years. Between 2004 and 2024, about 200 salt dust storms were identified, with the most intense storms occurring in winter, when wind speeds surpassed 30 km/h. These findings are important because they help understand the environmental impact of drying conditions, which can contribute to health issues related to air quality. Who this helps: This research benefits communities living near the lagoon, environmental agencies, and public health officials.

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This research focuses on uterus transplantation as a treatment for infertility, specifically for women who have no functioning uterus due to conditions like Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome or severe malformations. Since the first successful transplant in 2000, over 100 transplants have been completed worldwide, resulting in more than 70 births, including the first birth from a deceased donor uterus in Brazil in December 2017. This option is crucial for those struggling with infertility due to uterine issues, providing hope and new possibilities for families. Who this helps: This helps women facing infertility due to uterine causes.

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This study looked at brain and nervous system problems that can occur after patients receive stem cell transplants, involving 237 patients across multiple countries. The researchers found that about 3% of patients developed these issues, with 25% having infections and 56% suffering from other causes, like vascular problems. These complications significantly lowered patient survival rates, making it clear that they are a serious concern after stem cell transplants. Who this helps: This helps patients who undergo stem cell transplants, as well as their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how to safely adopt innovative esophageal surgery techniques while ensuring patient safety. Researchers found that a hybrid Ivor-Lewis technique, which combines minimally invasive and open surgery methods, helps maintain good postoperative results, like fewer major complications. The focus should be on real-world outcomes to guide how quickly new surgical approaches are adopted, ensuring they benefit patients without compromising care. Who this helps: Patients undergoing esophageal surgery.

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This study looked at the occurrence of intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) in 104 patients after liver transplantation. It found that 14.4% of the patients developed IAH, which was associated with a greater need for mechanical ventilation (60% versus 26.7%) and dialysis (31.3% versus 10.8%), but there was no increase in reoperations or deaths related to IAH. Understanding these complications helps improve patient care following liver transplants. Who this helps: Patients who undergo liver transplantation.

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This study looked at cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections in patients who received stem cell transplants, focusing on how machine learning can help predict the risk of these infections. Researchers analyzed data from 933 patients and found that 53% had CMV DNA in their blood, with 72% of those developing significant infections and 26% experiencing severe, resistant infections. The machine learning models achieved high accuracy, especially in predicting the initial CMV presence, which can aid in more personalized treatment plans. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing stem cell transplants and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at the outcomes of stem cell transplants in older patients (50 years and older) who received cells from either older siblings or younger unrelated donors. They found that the overall survival rates were similar for those using older matched sibling donors (44%) compared to younger unrelated donors (52%), but younger donors were associated with a better chance of staying disease-free. This is important as it highlights that while older sibling donors can be just as effective, younger donors may offer added benefits for older patients. Who this helps: This research helps patients over 50 years old needing stem cell transplants and their doctors in making better donor choices.

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This study looked at how different levels of a drug that targets dopamine receptors affect memory capacity in mice. They found that low doses of this drug improved memory, allowing mice to remember more items, while high doses worsened memory. For instance, low doses helped mice with memory issues related to schizophrenia perform better. This research is important because it helps us understand how to develop better treatments for memory problems, especially in mental health conditions like schizophrenia. Who this helps: Patients with schizophrenia and other memory-related disorders.

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This study looked at a signaling molecule called c-di-GMP in a bacteria known as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which can cause serious infections. Researchers used a gene-editing technique to disable 32 specific proteins that influence c-di-GMP levels, and found that the modified bacteria could not form biofilms and were less harmful, indicating that c-di-GMP is crucial for these processes. Understanding this mechanism is important because it could lead to new ways to combat infections caused by this and similar bacteria. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk for infections and doctors treating these infections.

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This study looked at how well patients with liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) survive after receiving treatment either through liver transplantation (LT) or liver surgery (hepatic resection, HR) in a busy medical center. Out of 744 patients, those who received a transplant had a 77.4% survival rate after one year, compared to 82.8% for those who had surgery. However, while 64.3% of patients on the transplant waiting list did receive a liver, many had to drop off the list due to cancer progression or passed away while waiting. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with liver cancer and their doctors by providing insights into treatment outcomes.

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Researchers translated and validated a dysphagia screening tool called the TOR-BSST into Turkish for use with stroke patients. They tested the tool on 60 stroke patients and found that 58.3% failed the screening, while 55% showed some level of swallowing difficulty on a detailed imaging test, indicating that the TOR-BSST-TR is effective at identifying dysphagia with high sensitivity (93.9%) and good specificity (85.2%). This matters because having a reliable tool can help healthcare providers detect swallowing issues early, improving care and potentially reducing severe complications like aspiration pneumonia in stroke patients. Who this helps: Stroke patients in Turkey who may have swallowing difficulties.

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The study gathered expert opinions on how to preserve the larynx (voice box) in patients with advanced throat cancers. The experts reached a consensus on 137 key points about treatment options for patients, including specific guidelines based on cancer stages and patient conditions. This is important because it helps ensure that patients can maintain their voice and quality of life after treatment. Who this helps: Patients with laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer.

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This study looked at how discrimination and negative societal attitudes (called structural stigma) affect the timing of puberty in Black and Latinx youth. It found that Black girls entered puberty earlier based on hormonal markers, and both Latinx girls and boys reported earlier puberty onset in states where racism and xenophobia were more prevalent. The impact of this stigma on puberty timing was similar in size to that of body weight and lasted for a year. Who this helps: This research helps clinicians and policymakers understand how societal factors influence health outcomes in marginalized youth.

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This study looked at a tool called the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Bulbar Dysfunction Index-Remote (ALSBDI-R), which helps doctors evaluate speech and swallowing issues in ALS patients without needing an in-person visit. Researchers tested the ALSBDI-R on 92 ALS patients and found it correlated strongly with other established tests, with a score correlation of -0.85 to -0.77, and it was effective at differentiating between mild, moderate, and severe dysfunction. This matters because it provides a reliable way to track patients' symptoms and disease progression, making remote care more efficient. Who this helps: Patients with ALS and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how common human herpes virus-6 (HHV-6) encephalitis is in patients who received stem cell transplants from different types of donors. Of 97 patients studied, 0.45% experienced this condition after their transplant, with the highest rates (2.14%) occurring in those who received cord blood. Even with treatment, the survival rate after five years was only 24.7%, highlighting a significant risk of death, particularly within 90 days of diagnosis. Who this helps: This research benefits patients who are undergoing stem cell transplants and their doctors by providing important information on potential risks.

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This research looks at how infections from common respiratory viruses affect patients before they undergo important cancer treatments like stem cell transplants or CAR-T therapy. It found that having these infections, especially when symptoms affect the lungs, can increase the risk of death and longer hospital stays. The study emphasizes the need to carefully consider whether to go ahead with treatment or delay it to improve safety and outcomes, suggesting adjustments in treatment strategies could enhance patient care. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing stem cell transplant or CAR-T therapy and their healthcare providers.

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This study examined how different types of care in the last month of life affect children with cancer. It compared 198 deceased patients who either received integrated palliative care at home and in the hospital or just standard oncology treatment. The findings showed that those who received integrated care had fewer invasive procedures, spent about 17 days less in the hospital, and 66% of them were able to die at home, while none of the standard care patients did. Who this helps: This benefits children with cancer and their families by providing them with better end-of-life care options.

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This study looked at how speech-language pathologists (SLPs) provide care to patients with head and neck cancer and found that their services vary greatly depending on the region. They discovered that SLPs face major challenges, including not having enough resources, inconsistent access to services, and increased workloads due to more complex patient needs. These issues hinder effective care for patients, and addressing them is crucial for improving the support these patients receive. Who this helps: This helps head and neck cancer patients who need speech-language services.

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This study focused on creating a new, eco-friendly way to produce a type of diabetes medication called glitazones. Researchers successfully developed a method that uses a natural substance, riboflavin tetraacetate, to combine different chemicals efficiently without needing heavy metals, and they demonstrated this process by making pioglitazone in just three steps. This is important because it makes the drug production process safer for the environment and potentially cheaper. Who this helps: This benefits patients with diabetes and the pharmaceutical industry.

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This study focused on developing new drugs for bipolar disorder by creating compounds that target two different receptors in the brain at the same time. Researchers found that a compound called ARN25657 was particularly promising, as it effectively engaged the dopamine receptor (D3R) and inhibited another target (GSK-3β) better than their initial candidate, which could lead to more effective treatments for patients. ARN25657 showed a significant improvement in its effects on both targets and had better overall properties, which is important for making new medications. Who this helps: This helps patients with bipolar disorder.

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Researchers studied a new surgical method for treating a blockage in the portal vein, which affects 5-16% of patients needing liver transplants. They successfully used this technique on two patients, completely removing the blockage without breaking it, which led to good blood flow in the liver after surgery. This matters because it helps ensure the liver receives enough blood, improving the chances of a successful transplant. Who this helps: This benefits patients requiring liver transplants.

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This study examined how quickly cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNA doubles in the blood of patients who received stem cell transplants and were taking the medication letermovir for virus prevention. Out of 296 patients, CMV DNA was found in 64 (21.6%), but only 9 patients (3.04%) developed significant infections. The findings showed that if the CMV DNA doubling time was more than 2.35 days, it correctly ruled out serious infections with 100% accuracy, helping doctors make better management decisions for these patients. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients receiving stem cell transplants.

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This study looked at two imaging methods, O-arm and CT scans, used after surgery for children with dislocated hips to see how well they could show the position of the hip joint. Researchers found that the O-arm used less radiation (4.51 mGy/kg) compared to CT scans (6.12 mGy/kg), making it a safer option for children. Both methods provided clear images, and none of the patients needed a cast change due to problems with hip positioning. Who this helps: This benefits children with dislocated hips and their families by reducing radiation exposure during imaging.

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This study looked at whether a lower dose of a drug called post-transplant cyclophosphamide (60 mg/kg) is as effective and safe as the standard dose (100 mg/kg) for adult patients receiving stem cell transplants from closely matched donors. The results showed that patients on the standard dose experienced slower recovery of their blood cells and had more instances of fever due to low white blood cell counts, while both groups had similar outcomes in terms of serious complications and survival rates. This matters because using a reduced dose could lead to fewer side effects without sacrificing important health outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing stem cell transplants by potentially minimizing side effects and complications.

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This study looked at how the growth stages of common hippos affect the shape of their skulls throughout their lives. Researchers analyzed skulls from 198 hippos at different ages and found that the biggest changes happen when they are very young (0-3 years) and during puberty (10-15 years). Interestingly, hippos’ skull shapes stabilize sooner than their jaw shapes, which keeps changing into their 20s, possibly due to dietary shifts rather than mating reasons. Who this helps: This research benefits scientists studying animal development and evolution, particularly for large mammals like hippos.

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This study looked at patients with blood disorders and those who received cell therapy who got COVID-19 during the Omicron variant period in Spain. Researchers found that 9% of these patients also had other infections, with bacterial infections being the most common. Co-infected patients had a lower survival rate of 71% compared to 92% for those without co-infections, highlighting the need for better management of these infections in vulnerable patients. Who this helps: This helps doctors and healthcare providers working with patients who have blood disorders or are undergoing cell therapy.

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This study examined how patients with advanced head and neck cancer responded to a type of treatment called cisplatin-based chemoradiotherapy, focusing on the side effects associated with two different dosages of cisplatin. The research found that giving 40 mg/m^2 of cisplatin weekly resulted in fewer severe side effects like neutropenia (a significant drop in white blood cells) and liver damage compared to giving 100 mg/m^2 every three weeks, although it did lead to more cases of low platelets and pain. These findings are important because they can guide doctors in choosing treatment plans that minimize harmful side effects while still being effective. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing treatment for advanced head and neck cancer.

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The researchers studied how calcium signaling, which is essential for many cell functions, is disrupted in rheumatoid arthritis compared to osteoarthritis. They found that when calcium levels are out of balance, it can lead to severe issues in joint tissues. Understanding these processes is crucial because it can lead to new treatments that improve the care for people suffering from these diseases. Who this helps: This helps patients with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

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This study looked at how cargoes, or materials that cells need to move, travel through different sections of the Golgi apparatus, an essential part of cells responsible for processing and sorting these materials. The researchers found that cargoes consistently move in a specific direction from one section to another and gather at the trans-Golgi network (TGN) before leaving, with slower movement out from the TGN causing a buildup of cargoes there. These findings clarify how materials are transported within the Golgi, which is crucial for understanding cell function and diseases related to cargo transport. Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors better understand cellular processes that could influence treatments for various diseases.

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This study examined how well a common method called Surface Emission Monitoring (SEM) detects methane emissions from ten landfills. The researchers found that while SEM was fairly effective at closed landfills, capturing about 67% of emissions, it only identified 17% of emissions from open landfills, especially missing significant emissions from active waste areas. This is important because it shows that relying solely on SEM is not enough to manage methane emissions effectively, suggesting the need for better monitoring methods. Who this helps: This benefits environmental regulators and landfill operators aiming to reduce methane emissions.

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This study looked at how malnutrition, loss of muscle mass (sarcopenia), and fat buildup in muscles (myosteatosis) affect kidney function in patients who received a kidney transplant. Researchers analyzed data from 86 kidney transplant recipients and found that while these conditions did not significantly impact immediate kidney function after the transplant, malnutrition led to poorer long-term kidney health, and sarcopenia was linked to higher short-term kidney issues. Understanding these relationships helps in managing the health of kidney transplant patients better. Who this helps: This information benefits doctors and healthcare providers working with kidney transplant patients.

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This study looked at how certain bacteria from polluted urban soils in Lausanne, Switzerland, can break down harmful substances known as dioxins and dibenzofurans. Researchers found that a simpler group of two bacterial strains was more effective in degrading these pollutants in soil over 24 weeks, especially in the early stages. Although the changes in pollution levels were variable and not statistically significant, there were positive signs of degradation, which highlights the importance of exploring natural bacteria for cleaning up contaminated environments. Who this helps: This research benefits communities dealing with soil pollution and environmental scientists focused on bioremediation techniques.

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This study looked at using a technique called intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) to treat severely narrowed carotid arteries that are heavily calcified. Four patients were treated with IVL before receiving stents, and all of them recovered well with no complications, showing good results in how well the stents expanded in their arteries. This is important because it could reduce the risk of problems like stents not working properly in patients with tough-to-treat artery blockages. Who this helps: This benefits patients with severely calcified carotid artery stenosis.

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Researchers are exploring a new way to use a type of drug called PROTACs, traditionally given through injections or pills, by applying them directly to the skin. They have found that these topical PROTACs can specifically target and break down harmful proteins in the body, which could help treat conditions like hair loss and acne, as well as other diseases affecting the lungs and eyes. While this method shows promise, there are challenges to overcome, such as ensuring these drugs stay effective and can properly penetrate the skin. Who this helps: This benefits patients dealing with skin conditions and other targeted diseases.

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This study looks at how using a piece of fat from the inside of the cheek (buccal fat rotation flap) affects pain after a specific type of throat surgery called transoral robotic oropharyngectomy, which is done to remove tumors. Researchers will compare the pain levels and recovery outcomes of 40 patients who receive this fat graft to those who just let the surgery wounds heal naturally. The goal is to find out if this fat graft can help reduce pain when swallowing and improve overall recovery, which could lead to fewer complications and faster discharge from the hospital. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing throat cancer surgery.

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This study looked at how bullying and state laws affect mental health in youth who identify as transgender or gender diverse. Researchers found that those who were most gender diverse experienced higher rates of bullying and psychotic-like symptoms, with bullying contributing to these mental health issues. Specifically, the most gender diverse youth had a 52% direct effect of bullying on their symptoms and a 0.11 indirect effect, meaning bullying played a significant role in their mental health struggles. Additionally, states with unsupportive laws saw these symptoms worsen over time. Who this helps: This helps gender diverse youth and those who care for them, like parents and mental health professionals.

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This study focused on how effectively computed tomography (CT) scans can assess the severity of damage caused by swallowing harmful substances (caustic ingestion) compared to the standard method of using an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. The researchers found that CT scans could be a promising non-invasive option for evaluating injuries, which helps doctors make better treatment decisions, especially since endoscopy can be more invasive and risky. This matters because early and accurate assessment can significantly improve patient outcomes and safety. Who this helps: Patients who have ingested caustic substances and require immediate medical care.

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This study looked at how multidetector computed tomography angiography (MDCTA) can be used to help diagnose and manage non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (NVUGIB), a serious condition that can lead to significant health issues. While traditional methods like esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) are the main approach, researchers found that MDCTA could be helpful in more severe cases or cases caused by rare issues, although more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness. This matters because identifying NVUGIB sources quickly can improve patient outcomes and treatment options. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients experiencing serious gastrointestinal bleeding.

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This study looked at how negative attitudes and policies towards LGBTQ+ people in different states might affect suicidal thoughts and behaviors among adolescents aged 14-18 who identify as sexual and gender minorities (SGM). The researchers found that SGM teens in states with higher levels of homophobia were 22% more likely to have thought about suicide and 24% more likely to have planned a suicide compared to those in more supportive environments. This is important because it highlights how social attitudes and laws can impact the mental health of these young people, emphasizing the need for better support and policies. Who this helps: This helps SGM youth by advocating for safer and more supportive environments.