NCARB PDD ARE 5.0 Project Development and Documentation Exam Exam Practice Test

Understanding the Context

When preparing the Project Manual in the Project Development & Documentation (PDD) section of the ARE 5.0 exam, you need to determine which specification sections are essential based on project requirements and conditions. The Project Manual organizes administrative and technical specifications into divisions, each serving a specific purpose.

In this case, because construction will occur while farming operations continue uninterrupted—and public water and sewer services are unavailable on site—temporary utilities (such as water, power, and possibly sanitation) are a critical component that must be clearly addressed in the Project Manual. These provisions ensure the contractor understands how to support construction without disrupting farm operations and without relying on permanent utilities.

Why “015000 Temporary Utilities” is Required

Section 01 50 00 – Temporary Utilities (often numbered 015000) is part of Division 01: General Requirements in the Project Manual. It specifies requirements for establishing and maintaining temporary utility services (like water, electric, lighting, heating, cooling, toilets) during construction. It helps ensure the design and construction team address logistical needs amid the distinctive site conditions—namely the absence of public utilities and the necessity of continuous farm operations.

As noted in a design and construction manual resource:

“Section 01 51 00 – Temporary Utilities. This section is generally included in all projects; however, it must be carefully written so as to be applicable to the specific project conditions.”

This directly supports inclusion of Temporary Utilities in the Project Manual for this project scenario.

Why Other Options Are Not Appropriate

A. 006113 Performance and Payment BondThese forms pertain to contract security and bonding requirements, which would be located in Division 00 (Procurement and Contracting Requirements), not Division 01. The question focuses on which section should be included in the Project Manual being prepared at this phase; the key imperative here is the temporary utility needs, not bonds.

B. 012300 AlternatesAlternates allow multiple pricing options for different project scopes, but there is no indication that alternate options (e.g., alternate spaces or functions) are being used in this design. There’s no mention of bidding alternates.

D. 019113 General Commissioning RequirementsCommissioning provisions (often related to MEP system verification and performance) would only be required if commissioning is part of the project deliverables. The project brief doesn’t indicate commissioning deliverables—only that mechanical and electrical systems are supported by the PEMB, and the focus here is continuity of operations and utilities during construction, not commissioning.

Given:

Load (W) = 1,600 lb

Screw shear capacity = 440 lb per screw

Screw tension capacity = 215 lb per screw

Assuming worst case is shear capacity (usually governs):

If tension applies, 8 screws needed.

But typically, shear governs for header connection; since question likely focuses on shear, 4 screws would be safest.

If question expects minimal number to resist both, 8 screws would be correct.

Final answer: 4 screws (Option C) if shear governs; if considering tension also, 8 screws (Option D).

Since the question is ambiguous, and shear usually controls, C. 4 screws is appropriate.

Poplar is a hardwood that is relatively inexpensive compared to species like maple, cherry, or oak. It has:

Good hardness and uniform grain

Takes paint and stain well (although stain may require pre-treatment for even color)

Often used as a cost-effective substitute for higher-priced hardwoods in furniture, millwork, and trim.

Why not others:

Red oak: Hard and attractive but more costly.

Cypress: Softwood valued for decay resistance, not typically a hardwood substitute.

Redwood: Softwood, expensive, used for exterior decay resistance.

PDD Reference: ARE 5.0 PDD “Materials—Wood species characteristics,” CSI Div. 06 Wood & Plastics, Architectural Woodwork Institute (AWI) standards.

The most destructive factor for mortar joints is freeze–thaw cycling: absorbed moisture expands upon freezing (~9% volume increase), creating internal stresses that crack mortar and spall joints.

A: Wind loading affects wall stability, not directly mortar joint durability.

B: Control joints manage thermal/movement cracks but aren’t the main durability factor.

C: Efflorescence is cosmetic and less destructive than freeze–thaw action.

PDD Reference: Masonry durability—Moisture management; ASTM C270 Mortar Specs; ARE 5.0 PDD “Building envelope durability in cold climates.”

Division 01 governs administrative procedures across all trades—submittals, project meetings, temporary utilities, etc. It sets the framework for other divisions. Objective 2.1 addresses the structure and function of specifications.

The diagram shows a loaded beam with two types of failure indicated:

Location 1 on the top edge shows shear failure — characterized by jagged cracks or fractures, typically near supports or where shear forces peak.

Location 2 near the bottom edge shows tension failure — concrete is weak in tension, so cracks develop at the bottom face in a simply supported beam under load.

This matches common structural behavior where:

The top fibers of a beam in bending undergo compression and shear stress.

The bottom fibers undergo tension (where cracks often form).

Shear cracks are usually diagonal and closer to the support (near the ends), tension cracks are vertical and near the midspan.

Per IBC Chapter 6 and Chapter 7, distillation involving flammable liquids requires a 2-hour fire-resistance-rated fire wall between H-occupancy (hazardous) and assembly use (A-2). Objective 1.3 of the PDD Handbook emphasizes understanding of life safety code implications in space planning.

Glass-fiber-reinforced concrete (GFRC) panels offer several advantages compared to architectural precast concrete panels:

GFRC panels are lighter due to their thin profile and use of fiber reinforcement, reducing structural load and facilitating installation.

Precast concrete panels are heavier and thicker.

Strength of GFRC is adequate but typically not higher than traditional precast.

Quality control and fabrication time are comparable or vary depending on the project and fabrication process.

Therefore, the significant advantage is decreased weight.

In the Critical Path Method (CPM) scheduling, the critical path is the longest sequence of dependent activities that determines the project duration.

Site work typically involves grading, excavation, underground utilities, and foundation preparation.

Site work must proceed in a linear, sequential manner: earthwork must finish before foundation pours; utilities are installed before slabs.

These activities are dependent on each other and cannot be done in parallel or out of order.

Therefore, site work forms a continuous chain of dependent activities on the critical path.

Other options are less relevant to CPM critical path logic:

Site work costs or retainage do not influence CPM scheduling.

Short interval scheduling is a project control technique, not a CPM determinant.

Sheet piling is a type of earth retention system used in excavations to prevent soil collapse. Reasons include:

D. When the natural soil slope is too steep to remain stable, sheet piling acts as a vertical barrier.

E. When soil cannot support itself during excavation, sheet piles provide lateral support.

F. When excavation is adjacent to a property line or existing structure and adjacent soil must not be disturbed.

Options A (grade beam support), B (raked shoring), and C (pile cap support) are not typical or primary uses of sheet piling.

Understanding the Diagram

The diagram shows a 480Y/277V three-phase, four-wire wye-connected system with a neutral (N) and system ground.

480 V = Voltage between any two phase conductors (line-to-line)

277 V = Voltage between any one phase conductor and neutral (line-to-neutral)

Fluorescent Lighting Voltage Requirements

Standard commercial fluorescent lighting systems are typically designed for 277 V operation in the U.S. (in buildings with a 480Y/277V system).

To achieve 277 V, you connect one phase conductor (A, B, or C) to Neutral (N).

This is a single-phase line-to-neutral connection.

Which Conductors to Use?

In the given options, the correct pair must give 277 V.

C, N → 277 V line-to-neutral → Correct for fluorescent lighting.

Other options produce different results:

A, B = 480 V (line-to-line) — too high for fluorescent ballasts.

C, A, B = all three phases — used for three-phase loads, not lighting.

C, A, N — would give two circuits, but includes extra phase unnecessarily for single-phase lighting.

NCARB ARE 5.0 PDD Study Guide References:

Content Area: Electrical Systems — Power Distribution and Circuiting for Lighting

Source References:

Electrical Systems for Architects — Fluorescent lighting voltage selection

MEEB (Mechanical and Electrical Equipment for Buildings) — Chapter on Electrical Service and Lighting Systems

NEC (National Electrical Code) — Voltage to ground for wye-connected systems

Key Point:

For a 480Y/277V wye system, fluorescent lighting should be connected from any phase to neutral for 277 V operation.

The owner’s request for review of ASIs (Architect's Supplemental Instructions), RFIs (Requests for Information), RFPs (Requests for Proposals), and change orders relates to contract modifications.

Section 01 26 00 in the project manual typically covers Contract Modification Procedures, including timelines and processes for handling these changes.

AIA Document A201 is the general conditions but does not detail specific timelines.

Supplementary Conditions modify A201 but usually don't detail these timelines.

Section 01 35 16 is specific to alteration projects, not general contract mod procedures.

1. Understanding the Diagram

The three sections in the exhibit show different curtain wall mullion profiles (vertical and horizontal sections) designed for glazing systems.

In curtain wall design, aluminum mullions must accommodate:

Structural loads (wind, dead load of glass, seismic)

Thermal expansion and contraction of metal members

Building movement (floor-to-floor deflection, live load, creep, seismic drift)

2. Why Vertical Expansion is Relevant

The vertical mullions in curtain wall systems span multiple floors and are typically anchored at one end and allowed to float/slip at the other end to accommodate vertical building movement.

Movement can be due to:

Thermal expansion of aluminum mullions (aluminum has a high coefficient of thermal expansion).

Inter-story drift from lateral loads.

Floor live-load deflection.

The mullion joinery and connections at the anchors are specifically detailed to allow vertical sliding while maintaining weather seals.

3. Why Other Options Are Incorrect

A. Capillary action — This refers to water movement in small spaces; curtain walls are designed with weeps and pressure-equalized cavities to prevent it, but that is not what the mullion’s slip connections are for.

B. Horizontal expansion — Horizontal movement is generally handled at horizontal mullions/transoms or gasket joints, not the vertical mullion extrusion as shown.

D. Surface tension — Refers to water behavior, not a structural or thermal movement design issue.

4. NCARB ARE 5.0 PDD Study Guide References

Content Area: Building Envelope Systems — Curtain Wall Detailing

Key Sources:

Architectural Graphic Standards — Curtain wall movement joints

Building Construction Illustrated (Ching) — Curtain wall expansion and anchoring details

AAMA (American Architectural Manufacturers Association) Curtain Wall Design Guide — Section on thermal movement and inter-story drift

The IBC and AWPA (American Wood Protection Association) standards require pressure treatment of wood in decay-prone climates when in contact with moisture-retaining materials (masonry/concrete), near grade, or within splash zones.

A: Moisture can wick from masonry/concrete into wood → decay risk.

B: Close proximity to soil promotes decay/insect activity.

D: Siding <6" above grade risks splashback and prolonged wetting.

E: Window casings <24" above grade are exposed to rain splash.

C: Roofing/flashing interface doesn’t require PT unless actual contact with wet substrate is expected.

F: Doors with thresholds don’t require PT unless the door bottom is wood in constant wetting.

PDD Reference: IBC §2304.11; ARE 5.0 PDD “Materials—Wood decay & termite resistance.”

Board‑and‑batten is a vertical siding system: wide vertical boards with narrow battens covering the joints; its detailing, drainage, and expansion behavior are intended for vertical application only.

By contrast, plain bevel (lap) siding is typically horizontal; V‑shiplap and V‑groove T&G can be detailed either direction depending on manufacturer, but are commonly horizontal on walls.

PDD References: Exterior wall cladding and detailing under “Materials & Assemblies—Exterior enclosure,” CSI Div. 06 & 07 application details.

Shop drawings show how components are to be fabricated or installed by the contractor. They do not redefine the design intent but elaborate on it. Refer to Objective 3.4: Evaluate submittals.

The scope involves interior renovation of an existing school reception office, limited to the footprint and protecting existing ceiling and fixtures. Additional staff is not proposed, and construction is during a defined 10-week summer break.

Plumbing is unlikely to require new or modified systems unless specified; not mentioned here.

Structural changes are not indicated since footprint remains same and no structural modifications are noted.

Mechanical changes would typically be required if HVAC or ventilation systems are altered, but the ceiling and fixtures (likely including diffusers) must be protected and are presumably left unchanged.

Electrical modifications are common in interior renovations to accommodate lighting, power outlets, communication systems, and potentially security or reception technology updates.

Thus, electrical drawings should be included to cover these updates.

Emergency egress requires minimum 5.7 sq ft clear opening (net).

Double-hung windows’ clear opening is about half the sash area. A 3'×5' nominal size gives ≈ 3×2.5 = 7.5 sq ft gross, ~6.25 sq ft clear → meets code.

North wall placement minimizes direct morning sunlight (vs. east wall).

A: 2'×2' awning → too small and awnings don’t count for egress in most cases.

B: Fixed windows do not meet egress operability requirements.

C: Two 3'×2' casements on east wall → each only 6 sq ft gross, and east wall gets morning sun, opposite client’s goal.

PDD Reference: IBC §1030 Emergency Escape and Rescue; ARE 5.0 PDD “Code compliance—Daylighting control & egress.”

The arrow in the wall-floor assembly indicates a horizontal structural member attached to a wall, used to support the end of a floor joist. This is called a ledger.

Ledger: Typically a dimensional lumber or engineered wood member fastened to a wall that supports floor framing members (joists).

Fire block: Installed to limit fire spread in concealed spaces—often mid-wall or mid-stud cavity, not in this floor-to-wall position.

Girt: A horizontal framing member in a wall, usually in steel-frame or post-frame construction, not in conventional wood framing for floors.

Lateral shear plate: A metal plate for shear transfer, not applicable here.

PDD References:

ARE 5.0 PDD “Structural Systems—Wood framing details”

IBC §2308.4—Floor framing requirements

AWC (American Wood Council) “Wood Frame Construction Manual” Ledger attachment details

Understanding the Diagram

The detail shows a fan coil unit suspended from the structure, with:

Vibration isolators at the hanging rods to limit mechanical vibration transfer to the structure.

Flexible duct connections between the fan coil unit and the rigid ductwork.

Purpose of Flexible Duct Connections

Flexible connections in HVAC duct systems are designed to:

Prevent transmission of vibration and sound from the mechanical equipment (fan coil unit) into the rigid ductwork and building.

Compensate for small misalignments between the ductwork and equipment.

Accommodate minor thermal expansion/contraction movements.

Key Function in This Context:

Fan coil units contain fans that create vibration and noise. Without a flexible connection, this vibration would travel directly through the rigid ductwork into occupied spaces, increasing noise levels.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. To provide a field point of connection — While the flexible connector does connect ducts, its purpose is not just convenience; it is specifically for vibration/sound isolation.

B. To insulate against heat transfer — This is done with thermal duct insulation, not flexible connectors.

D. To transition from flange to desired duct size — Transitions are made using sheet metal fittings, not flexible connectors.

NCARB ARE 5.0 PDD Study Guide References:

Content Area: Integration of Building Materials & Systems — Mechanical Systems and Acoustics

Sources:

Mechanical and Electrical Equipment for Buildings (MEEB) — Vibration Control in Mechanical Systems

Architectural Graphic Standards — Flexible Duct Connections for Noise and Vibration Isolation

ASHRAE Handbook — HVAC Applications, Chapter on Sound and Vibration Control

Key Point:

Flexible connectors in ductwork break the direct mechanical path for vibration and sound, reducing noise transfer from fans to occupied areas.

Glycol-cooled air conditioning systems use a glycol-water mixture as a secondary coolant instead of plain water. Glycol has lower freezing point and better heat transfer properties in certain conditions.

Advantages include:

Longer piping runs without freezing risk, allowing the chiller or cooling unit to be located further away from the computer room, useful for flexible building layouts.

Glycol prevents freezing in cold climates or exposed pipes.

It does not inherently reduce heat exhausted or is necessarily more sustainable than water cooling.

Glycol is generally more expensive than water.

Therefore, the primary advantage is the ability to locate the cooling unit farther from the space being cooled.

Understanding the Reviewer’s Comment

The under-floor access refers to an access opening to the crawlspace.

Crawlspaces are located below the main floor framing and above the foundation.

The International Residential Code (IRC) Section R408.4 requires access openings to under-floor spaces, either from the exterior or the interior.

If site conditions prevent exterior access, access must be provided from inside the building — typically through a framed opening in the main floor.

Why the Main Floor Framing Plan is Correct

Main Floor Framing Plan shows the joists, beams, and floor openings above the crawlspace.

The under-floor access opening (often between joists, covered by a hatch) must be framed into the main floor structure to allow entry to the crawlspace.

This plan will clearly show the location and framing details of the access hatch for contractor reference.

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. Second Floor Framing Plan — The crawlspace is not under the second floor, so no access opening would be framed here.

C. Foundation Plan — Shows foundation walls, footings, piers, and crawlspace layout, but the actual framed access opening is in the floor system above, not in the foundation drawing. The note about providing access might be referenced here, but the physical location and framing would be shown on the main floor framing plan.

NCARB ARE 5.0 PDD Study Guide References:

Content Area: Integration of Building Materials & Systems — Coordination between structural drawings and code requirements.

Code Reference: IRC R408.4 — Access Opening Requirements for Under-Floor Spaces.

Source References:

Architectural Graphic Standards — Crawlspace access detailing

Building Construction Illustrated (Ching) — Floor framing over crawlspaces

Purpose of the Air Space in Brick Veneer Walls

In a typical brick veneer cavity wall assembly, there is an air space between the back side of the brick and the sheathing (or water-resistive barrier) of the structural wall. This space is typically 1 to 2 inches wide and serves several critical functions:

Moisture Drainage and Ventilation

Rainwater can penetrate brick veneer through joints and cracks.

The air cavity allows water to drain down the back of the veneer to flashing and out through weep holes.

It also provides ventilation to help dry out the wall assembly.

Minimizing Mortar Bridging

During construction, mortar can drop down into the cavity from bricklaying.

If mortar bridges across to the sheathing, it can create a path for moisture to move into the structure.

The 2-inch cavity helps reduce the chance that mortar droppings will fully bridge the gap, ensuring the drainage plane stays functional.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. To meet the minimum R-value — The air space in brick veneer is not designed as insulation; its thermal benefit is minimal compared to continuous insulation layers.

B. Allow for differential movement — Brick veneer differential movement is accommodated by wall ties and control joints, not by the air cavity.

C. Provide space for roof drain piping — Roof drainage piping is routed separately and is not part of the brick veneer cavity design.

NCARB ARE 5.0 PDD Study Guide References:

Content Area: Building Envelope Systems — Masonry Wall Assemblies

Source References:

Building Construction Illustrated (Ching) — Brick Veneer Wall Sections and Cavity Function

Architectural Graphic Standards — Masonry Veneer Construction Details

BIA (Brick Industry Association) Technical Notes 21 & 21A — Cavity Wall Design and Construction

Key Principle:

A 2-inch air cavity behind brick veneer is primarily to ensure proper drainage and to minimize mortar bridging, which would otherwise allow moisture intrusion into the building.

IBC governs occupancy classification, occupant loads, and required means of egress. A 300-person taproom triggers egress path requirements under IBC Chapter 10. Objective 1.3 addresses code compliance.

In PDD, the architect must coordinate consultant drawings. When a conflict exists (here, duct vs. beam), the best course is to ask the responsible engineer (mechanical) to reroute the ductwork to clear the beam. As per ARE 5.0 Handbook Objective 3.1, the architect is expected to "coordinate building systems and their integration."

Elevations (A-03): material callouts, notes, and textures for every façade.

Wall sections (A-06): assembly build-ups change (continuous insulation, drainage plane, WRB, attachment to PEMB girts, control joints, weeps, and terminations).

Details (A-07): heads/sills/jambs, base of wall/grade, parapet, expansion and control joints, and transition flashing details must be revised for EIFS.

Sheets like A-00 (cover) or A-02 (plans) generally don’t carry the envelope system specifics and would not need detail changes for a cladding swap.

PDD refs: Drawings coordination—plans vs. elevations vs. sections/details; Division 07 EIFS system requirements; PEMB cladding interfaces.

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1. Problem Summary

Goal: Reduce reverberation time (RT) in the Tap Room to 2.0 seconds or less.

Current design: 2' x 2' acoustic ceiling tile system (RT = 2.0 seconds) installed above fans.

Constraint: Minimize additional project cost.

Recommendation from acoustical engineer: Use materials to achieve target RT without redesigning the space.

2. Review of Table Data

Material

RT

SF

SF Cost

Cementitious Wood Fiber Panels (1")

2.0

448

$12.64

Cementitious Wood Fiber Panels (2")

1.8

384

$18.95

2x2 Acoustical Ceiling Tile (15/16")

2.0

900

$8.81

Acoustical Sound Board (1")

1.6

256

$18.23

3. Interpretation of RT Values

Current 2x2 Acoustic Ceiling Tile: RT = 2.0 seconds → meets the target exactly.

However, fans may reduce the acoustic performance by reflecting or scattering sound, so supplemental absorption may be needed.

Adding Acoustical Sound Board (RT = 1.6) above the existing tile system will improve absorption and lower RT below 2.0 seconds.

4. Cost & Constructability

Retaining the current ceiling layout and simply adding a layer above is:

Least disruptive to current design.

Avoids redesign of the ceiling cloud layout.

Minimizes schedule impact (critical for design-build with compressed schedule).

Replacing with wood fiber panels (1" or 2") would require removal of existing tile, redesign of suspension, and higher cost/SF.

5. Why Other Options Are Incorrect

A. Remove fans: This addresses air movement, not RT. Removing them does not guarantee RT improvement and conflicts with HVAC design intent.

B. One cloud + 1" wood fiber panels: Reduces coverage area and may not meet RT goal; also costly and disruptive.

C. One cloud + 2" wood fiber panels: Even more costly, same redesign problem as B.

D. Retain tiles and add sound board above: Achieves RT < 2.0, minimal disruption, cost-effective vs. full replacement → best option.

6. NCARB ARE 5.0 PDD Study Guide References

Content Area: Building Systems Integration — Acoustics

Reference Sources:

Architectural Graphic Standards — Acoustic material properties

Mechanical and Electrical Equipment for Buildings (MEEB) — Room acoustics and reverberation control

ASTM C423 — Sound Absorption and Sound Absorption Coefficients by the Reverberation Room Method

For barrier-free (ADA) accessible routes, operable parts such as door hardware must be usable with one hand and not require tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist (2010 ADA Standards §404.2.7). Lever handles meet this requirement because they can be operated by users with limited grip strength or dexterity.

A. Grip handles with thumbpieces — Often require pinching or twisting; not compliant for barrier-free.

B. Knurled knobs — Non-compliant because they require twisting and strong grip; also typically used for hazardous rooms as a tactile warning.

D. Panic devices — Allowed in certain egress conditions but not the universal ADA hardware requirement for standard accessible doors.

PDD Reference: ARE 5.0 Handbook, PDD “Codes and Regulations—Accessibility,” 2010 ADA Standards §404.2.7, ICC A117.1 Accessibility Standard.

Understanding the Diagram

The image shows a pump installation detail with various vibration and alignment control devices:

A — Typically a pipe hanger or suspension support to reduce strain on piping.

B — Likely a flexible electrical conduit (for pump motor connection).

C — Spring vibration isolators under the pump base to prevent vibration transmission into the building structure.

D — A flexible pipe connector (also called a flex connector or braided flexible coupling).

Purpose of Flexible Pipe Connectors

Flexible pipe connectors (D in the diagram) are designed to:

Absorb minor misalignment between connected piping systems.

Reduce stress on pump flanges due to thermal expansion, settlement, or installation tolerances.

Isolate vibration from the pump so that it is not transmitted along rigid piping to the building structure.

This makes them essential in mechanical systems where pumps, chillers, or other vibrating equipment connect to rigid building piping.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. Pipe hangers/supports — Maintain alignment and support vertical loads but do not allow for misalignment or vibration isolation in the same way as flexible connectors.

B. Electrical conduit/flexible connection — Relates to electrical supply flexibility, not piping alignment.

C. Spring vibration isolators — Isolate vibration from equipment to the floor but do not address piping misalignment.

NCARB ARE 5.0 PDD Study Guide References:

Content Area: Integration of Building Materials & Systems — Mechanical Systems Coordination

Source References:

Mechanical and Electrical Equipment for Buildings (MEEB) — Chapter on Vibration Isolation & Pump Installation

Architectural Graphic Standards — Flexible Connector & Piping Details

Key Point: Flexible connectors at pumps and equipment protect against misalignment, vibration, and stress transfer to the piping system.

In wood selection for exterior construction, certain species’ heartwoods contain natural extractives/resins that deter decay and insect activity. Western Red Cedar and Cypress are well known for natural durability and termite resistance without chemical treatment. Species such as Douglas fir, hemlock, southern yellow pine, and most oaks are not reliably termite‑resistant in their sapwood and typically require preservative treatment for use in termite zones.

PDD References: NCARB ARE 5.0 PDD content area “Materials & Assemblies—Wood” (durability/decay resistance), CSI Div. 06 wood materials selection notes, and IBC Appx. on decay- and termite‑prone areas—select naturally durable species or preservative treatment.