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The Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games was one of the largest international mass-gathering events held after the beginning of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. In this scoping review, we extracted papers discussing COVID-19 risk assessment or management at the Tokyo 2020 Games to determine the nature of studies that were conducted. Among the 75 papers obtained from two search engines (PubMed and ScienceDirect) and four papers collected from hand-searches, 30 papers were extracted. Only eight papers performed both COVID-19 prior risk assessment and quantitative evaluation of effectiveness measures, highlighting the importance of rapid, solution-focused risk assessment. Furthermore, this review revealed that the findings regarding the spread of COVID-19 infection to citizens in the host country were inconsistent depending on the assessment methods and that assessments of the spread of infection outside the host country were lacking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mass gathering events in Japan have gradually mitigated their novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) control regulations, along with a minimum infection risk. The Japan Professional Football League (J.League) conducted pilot surveys on holding events with chant cheers. In this commentary, we introduce the collaborative efforts based on scientific knowledge among experts, J.League, and their fans. We performed risk assessment in advance, by updating a previously developed model. We further observed the average proportion of masks worn, chant cheering time of participants, and CO 2 levels in the stand. The number of new COVID-19 cases in an event with 5,000 chant cheering participants and 35,000 non-chant cheering participants was estimated to be 1.02 times of an event, with 40,000 non-chant cheering participants. The average proportion of masks worn during the game was 98.9 %, for chant cheer participants. The chant cheering participants spent 50.0–51.1 % of their time chant cheering. Monitored average CO 2 levels were ≤ 540 ppm, suggesting high ventilation rates in the stand. The high proportion of masks worn represents the willingness of norm-conscious fans to cooperate in regular recovery of the sport. This has proved to be one of the successful models for future mass gathering events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review assessed the use of personal health records (PHRs) during and after disasters, identifying benefits, barriers, and contributions to their use. A literature search using PubMed and Scopus was conducted, focusing on articles examining PHR use during and after a disaster including a nuclear power plant accident. The study found that PHRs were commonly used in various disasters, often one month after the disaster. The objectives of their use included building new systems for disaster management and identifying problems during the disaster response. Barriers to PHR use included quality-related issues, such as data on regular quality maintenance, and cost factors for development and maintenance. PHRs were essential for identifying healthcare needs, managing patient care, tracking survivors, and collecting health data in the affected areas. Given the difficulty of establishing a new PHR system immediately after a disaster, PHRs should be integrated into existing systems before a disaster occurs. Integrating PHRs with national identification systems and including comprehensive health data have the potential to improve emergency medical intervention as well as general health status. In the future, PHRs may need to be able to engage users in healthcare during both normal and disaster times. However, several limitations exist in PHR use, including language barriers, and difficulties in obtaining patient consent for PHRs, which may limit the prevalence and effectiveness of PHRs themselves. Finding a balance between privacy and urgency regarding patient information is important to overcome the problems. • There are several barriers and benefits of personal health records (PHRs) in disaster situations. • The most common role of PHRs was to identify medical health needs. • Barriers to PHR use included data quality, compatibility, and maintenance costs. • Major PHR contributions were medical need identification and patient care management. • PHRs should integrate databases from multiple sources, including daily health data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large-scale disasters can severely impact breast cancer care, leading to treatment disruptions and delays. While empirical studies on these effects are limited, patient narratives provide valuable insights. This study explored treatment continuity and medical access among local breast cancer patients affected by the 2011 triple disaster through qualitative research methods. The study involved 21 local breast cancer patients diagnosed before the disaster. After obtaining consent, semi-structured interviews ranging from 20 min to an hour were conducted, and data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. The analysis identified five key themes: medical challenges, family roles and burdens, information access and communication, mental health effects, and evacuation difficulties. These themes highlight the range of challenges from immediate response to long-term recovery, showcasing the profound impacts of infrastructure damage and treatment disruptions, exacerbated by familial constraints and the need for reliable information, contributing to psychological and logistical complexities during evacuation. The findings underscore the critical need for ongoing care and address key challenges for breast cancer patients during disasters. Future research should focus on developing practical and prompt solutions to address these issues in disaster settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study introduces a new analytical framework to assess attitudes towards key stakeholders influencing public behaviour during public health crises, such as governments, crisis management experts, doctors, healthcare workers, and mass media. Due to its accessibility and speed, there is increasing interest in using social media for public surveillance during a crisis. However, analyzing the vast amount data obtained from social media and the lack of practical application for findings obtained so far from current analytical methods have been problematic. This research utilizes Twitter data to analyze public sentiments during two significant crises: the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident and the covid-19 pandemic. Findings from our analytical framework showed persistent negative attitudes toward the government and media despite high trust in experts post crisis. The study also revealed that public attitudes toward stakeholders were likely to emerge even years after a crisis and that appropriate responses and initiative scan potentially improve public attitudes. In addition, methodological implications confirm that affective and response analysis, on their own, lack the specificity and reliability to make use of the information in actual responses, but when combined, they output practical information as findings. This study highlights the importance of flexible identification of key stakeholders and real-time monitoring of public attitudes to enhance risk communication during public health crises. The findings contribute to the understanding of using social media data for assessing public attitudes to help shape and inform effective crisis response strategies. • We analysed public attitudes toward critical actors from social media. • Combining sentiment and response analysis was helpful for practical results. • Information from experts in crises was more likely to be trusted. • Governments and media were likely to have negative attitudes from the public. • Campaigns to improve attitudes have some effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To identify factors associated with mask-wearing and hand disinfection before and after the coronavirus disease outbreak. Longitudinal study. We surveyed Japanese people aged ≥18 years from wave 1 (January 2020) to wave 23 (January 2023). We analyzed the associations between individual characteristics, including the frequency of exposure to information and mask-wearing or hand disinfection before the outbreak and during wave 1, of 666 participants who fully responded until wave 9 (September 2020). Individual characteristics associated with the new implementation of mask-wearing or hand disinfection until wave 9 were analyzed for 217 and 413 participants, respectively, who had not performed preventive behavior during wave 1. We also analyzed the associations of individual characteristics with the new implementation of preventive behaviors until wave 23. Among the individual characteristics, the frequency of exposure to information was significantly associated with mask-wearing and hand disinfection, but the associated information types differed pre- and post-outbreak. Medical information exposure was associated with the implementation of mask-wearing and hand disinfection before the outbreak, and these practices before the outbreak were strongly associated with mask-wearing and hand disinfection immediately after the outbreak. Meanwhile, exposure to information obtained from acquaintances was associated with the new implementation afterward. Exposure to information from mass media was associated with the new implementation of hand disinfection. This study provides insights for developing risk communication strategies to disseminate information and promote the timely use of these sources to enhance preventive behavior. • We uncovered factors influencing preventive behaviors post-COVID-19 outbreak. • We conducted a longitudinal study spanning January 2020 to January 2023. • Exposure frequency to information was associated with enhanced preventive behaviors. • Types of influential information varied from pre-outbreak to post-outbreak. • Timely dissemination and exposure to information bolster preventive behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is important to clarify the bi-directional associations between mask usage and mask-usage motivations. Therefore, this study clarified the changes in mask usage and beliefs about reasons for masking before and after the downgrading of the legal status of COVID-19 in Japan and analyzed the bi-directional associations between the two. Online surveys were conducted in two sets among people aged 20–69 years living in Japan: the first before the downgrading of the legal status of COVID-19, between April 18–19, 2023; and the second afterward, June 6–15, 2023. After a total of 291 participants completed both surveys, associations between using masks and beliefs about reasons for doing so were analyzed using a cross-lagged panel model. Mask usage decreased slightly but significantly between the first and second sets. Of the eight beliefs regarding mask usage, slight but significant decreases were observed in terms of relief and information effects. There was also a significant association between socio-psychological reasons other than infection risk avoidance (such as norm and relief) during the first set and mask usage during the second set. Contrarily, mask usage during the first set was significantly associated with the reasons for infection risk avoidance during the second set. The impact of downgrading COVID-19's legal status in Japan on mask usage and reasons for masking was found to be limited. In terms of promoting or mitigating mask usage, the significance of risk communication based on socio-psychological reasons other than infection risk avoidance such as norms and relief was highlighted. • This study analyzed changes in mask usage and beliefs after COVID-19 convergence. • A longitudinal study design was used to analyze the bi-directional associations. • The impact of downgrading the COVID-19 status on mask usage was limited. • Socio-psychological reasons other than infection risk avoidance affected mask usage. • Mask usage affected motivation for infection risk avoidance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite numerous studies using questionnaires to assess mental health problems among disaster victims following a disaster, only a few have examined actual medical treatment situations. Surveys of residents in disaster-affected areas following the Great East Japan Earthquake and Fukushima nuclear power plant disaster also indicate deteriorated mental health among survivors; however, concrete evidence of increased individuals seeking treatment at psychiatric institutions is still scarce. Using medical records of a psychiatric clinic in an affected area during the chronic phase after a disaster, this study investigated the status of interventions for patients with alcoholism, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and others, including whether violence occurred during treatment. We found that 730 patients visited the clinic for a year, but a few with alcoholism received treatment. Patients who experienced traumatic stress during the disaster had a higher treatment discontinuation rate, though it is not correlated with their involvement in violence. However, a diagnosis of complex PTSD was correlated with involvement in violence during the treatment. The psychiatric clinic providing care during the chronic phase of the post-disaster period did not provide sufficient treatment for alcoholism, where therapeutic interpersonal interaction is emphasized, or for PTSD, where trauma-focused psychotherapy is the standard of care. It is difficult to ensure the availability of highly specialized resources and the establishment of comprehensive ties with the local people in affected areas, however, such a situation poses a challenge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The health of the vulnerable populations receiving the Long-Term Care (LTC) Insurance Programs was threatened by the direct and indirect effects of disasters. The 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami and the explosion at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant (FDNPP) forced 164,865 people's evacuation and caused many disaster-related deaths. We examined the relationship between these deaths and LTC certification. Data were collected from 520 people who were living in Minamisoma City during the earthquake and whose deaths were certified as disaster-related by the Minamisoma City Committee for Certification of Disaster-Related Deaths from September 2011 to February 2021; 467 (90.0%) responded to the LTC item on the survey form, of which 200 (38.5%) were not certified and 266 (51.3%) were certified for LTC. People with high levels of LTC certification needs during the acute phase of the earthquake were found to be more likely to die from circulatory and respiratory diseases. The mean time from disaster to death was shorter for those with higher levels of LTC; it was significantly shorter for those with long-term care level 3 and above. This study points out the importance of timely response with regard to disaster-related deaths and long-term care. Further studies are needed to examine how medical resources can be deployed in a timely manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The occurrence of human growth after a stressful experience, such as a disaster, is called post-traumatic growth (PTG). PTG has been confirmed among people affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake (GEJE). We hypothesised that people who experienced PTG during the GEJE would be able to better respond to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) compared to those who did not. This cross-sectional study conducted a survey via a posting method between 25 January and February 16, 2021. We randomly distributed questionnaires to 1800 residents of Fukushima and Miyagi prefectures aged 20–26 years. We included 582 participants who responded. PTG caused by the GEJE was significantly higher in the affected prefectures, especially among those who experienced the earthquake and tsunami. Furthermore, it was significantly associated with COVID-19-related responses, such as avoiding the three-Cs (i.e., closed spaces, crowded places, and close-contact settings), basic infection control, taking care of oneself under self-restraint, and getting enough rest and nutrition. This suggested that experiencing PTG may have enabled people affected by the GEJE to better respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, PTG was also associated with exclusive behaviours, although this association was weaker than that for other COVID-19-related responses. Hence, support for increased PTG during the post-disaster period was suggested. • Post-traumatic Growth (PTG) may lead to a better response in a subsequent disaster • Survivors of the Great East Japan Earthquake (GEJE) are known to exhibit PTG • We examined if the PTG caused by the GEJE was associated with COVID-19 responses • PTG was associated with infection control measures during the COVID-19 pandemic • PTG plays an important role in better responses in a subsequent disaster [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To assess the effects of policy measures taken to ensure health and promote well-being, we developed a novel indicator, “loss of happy life expectancy” (LHpLE), under the concept that an objective of life is maximization of lifelong happiness, by using objective survival probabilities and a simple question regarding emotional happiness: “Did you experience a feeling of happiness yesterday [yes/no]?” We measured the emotional happiness of 4990 Japanese respondents through a questionnaire. We then used LHpLE to compare risks after the 2011 Fukushima disaster. LHpLE due to psychological distress was estimated from a decline of emotional happiness, whereas that due to radiation exposure was assessed from shortened life expectancy caused by additional cancer mortality. LHpLE values due to psychological distress in evacuees were approximately 1 to > 2 orders of magnitude higher than those due to cancer mortality caused by actual radiation exposure, highlighting the importance of measures to minimize distress following public health emergencies. LHpLE could be used for integrated risk comparison among different types of harms and therefore in government policy-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Station accident, regional road dust, heavily contaminated with radiocesium, now represents a potential source of radiocesium pollution in river water. To promote effective countermeasures for reducing the risk from radiocesium pollution, it is important to understand its sources. This study evaluated the utility of metals, including Al, Fe, and Zn as road dust tracers, and applied them to analyze sources of 137 Cs in rivers around Fukushima during wet weather. Concentrations of Zn in road dust were higher than agricultural and forest soils, whereas concentrations of Fe and Al were the opposite. Concentrations of Zn were weakly but significantly correlated with benzothiazole, a molecular marker of tires, indicating Zn represents an effective tracer of road dust. Al, Fe, and Zn were frequently detected in suspended solids in river water during wet weather. Distribution coefficients of these metals and 137 Cs exceeded 10 4 , suggesting sorptive behavior in water. Although concentrations of Al, Fe, Zn, and 137 Cs were higher in fine fractions of road dust and soils than in coarse fractions, use of ratios of 137 Cs to Al, Fe, or Zn showed smaller differences among size fractions. The results demonstrate that combinations of these metals and 137 Cs are useful for analyzing sources of radiocesium in water. These ratios in river water during wet weather were found to be comparable with or lower than during dry weather and were closer to soils than road dust, suggesting a limited contribution from road dust to radiocesium pollution in river water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • EPISENS-M consists of RNA extraction from membrane, RT-preamplification, and qPCR. • EPISENS-M enables sensitive detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA from wastewater. • SARS-CoV-2 RNA concentrations in wastewater correlated well with the reported cases. • A mathematical model was developed for predicting reported COVID-19 cases via WBE. • EPISENS-M with the mathematical model enables reliable prediction of reported cases. Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) has the potential to predict COVID-19 cases; however, reliable methods for tracking SARS-CoV-2 RNA concentrations (C RNA) in wastewater are lacking. In the present study, we developed a highly sensitive method (EPISENS-M) employing adsorption-extraction, followed by one-step RT-Preamp and qPCR. The EPISENS-M allowed SARS-CoV-2 RNA detection from wastewater at 50 % detection rate when newly reported COVID-19 cases exceed 0.69/100,000 inhabitants in a sewer catchment. Using the EPISENS-M, a longitudinal WBE study was conducted between 28 May 2020 and 16 June 2022 in Sapporo City, Japan, revealing a strong correlation (Pearson's r = 0.94) between C RNA and the newly COVID-19 cases reported by intensive clinical surveillance. Based on this dataset, a mathematical model was developed based on viral shedding dynamics to estimate the newly reported cases using C RNA data and recent clinical data prior to sampling day. This developed model succeeded in predicting the cumulative number of newly reported cases after 5 days of sampling day within a factor of √ 2 and 2 with a precision of 36 % (16/44) and 64 % (28/44), respectively. By applying this model framework, another estimation mode was developed without the recent clinical data, which successfully predicted the number of COVID-19 cases for the succeeding 5 days within a factor of √ 2 and 2 with a precision of 39 % (17/44) and 66 % (29/44), respectively. These results demonstrated that the EPISENS-M method combined with the mathematical model can be a powerful tool for predicting COVID-19 cases, especially in the absence of intensive clinical surveillance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to examine the factors correlated with emergency evacuations on patients' prognosis in hospitals severely affected by the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant (FDNPP) accident in March 2011, and to recommend measures mitigating potential health risks among them in future disasters. Seven hospitals within a 20-km radius of the FDNPP were designated as the evacuation zone, of which three hospitals located within a 5-km radius were examined. Information regarding hospital emergency evacuation among the three hospitals from previous literature and official reports were integrated and interview outcomes of staff at each hospital were qualitatively analyzed using thematic analysis. Our thematic analysis identified four themes: insufficient preparedness for disaster, difficulty of patient evacuation, insufficient materials, and insufficient information. Comparison of the three hospitals located within a 5-km radius of the FDNPP revealed that hospitals with several patients or those with a high proportion of bedridden or critically ill patients faced more difficulty in emergency evacuation and experienced higher fatalities. In addition to individual evacuation plans, for future preparedness, external and public organizations should prepare disaster responses such as procedures to integrate information on the status of each medical facility and measures to support them individually. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Disasters, pandemics, and their response measures can have secondary effects on the physical and psychological health of affected populations. Using health insurance receipt data from 2009 to 2020, we assessed changes in the prevalence of major non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, and mental disorders, among affected populations before and after the Fukushima disaster and coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak in Japan. Furthermore, age and sex groups with the largest increases in prevalence after these events were identified. The participants of this study were employees of large companies and their dependent family members who were insured by health insurance societies (HIS). The dataset was provided by JMDC Inc. The annual age-adjusted prevalence of each disease belonging to the HIS scheme was used to calculate the ratio of disease prevalence before and after the events. After the Fukushima disaster, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes generally increased over a 9-year period in Fukushima Prefecture. The increase in the prevalence rate of these three NCDs and mental disorders was the highest among females aged 40–74 years compared to males and the other age groups. The prevalence of all four diseases increased after the COVID-19 outbreak in Japan, with a marked increase in males aged 0–39 years. Changes in prevalence ratios of NCDs after the COVID-19 outbreak among the areas affected by the Fukushima disaster were lower than in the whole of Japan. It is important to provide tailor-made public health support among populations in accordance with the type of disasters and pandemic. • We assessed secondary health effects of Fukushima disaster and COVID-19 pandemic. • Non-communicable diseases increased after the disaster and COVID-19 pandemic. • The increase rates were higher among females aged 40–74 years after the disaster. • The increase rates were higher among males aged 0–39 years after COVID-19 pandemic. • It is important to provide tailor-made public health support among populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After the 2011 nuclear accident in Fukushima, radiocesium was released from the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant and contaminated waters in urban areas near Tokyo. By intensive field monitoring during 3 years, this study investigated the temporal trends and the occurrence of radiocesium during dry and wet weather, and analyzed the variations in radiocesium during rainfall events and factors controlling them. Concentrations of particulate radiocesium decreased rapidly from May 2012 to March 2013 and reached an equilibrium in 2014. Concentrations of particulate 137 Cs during wet weather were almost double those during dry weather in the same period. In contrast to the small variations in 137 Cs concentrations in the particulate phase on a suspended solids (SS) weight basis during events, those in the dissolved phase on a liquid-volume basis fluctuated greatly, resulting in variations in the partition coefficient (apparent K d ). The apparent K d of 137 Cs during wet weather ranged from 30 000 to 150 000 L kg −1 and showed a significant negative correlation with SS concentrations during wet weather. Specific surface area in solids contributed to the variations in apparent K d . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We employed a multi-tracer approach to investigate sources and pathways of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) in urban groundwater, based on 53 groundwater samples taken from confined aquifers and unconfined aquifers in Tokyo. While the median concentrations of groundwater PFAAs were several ng/L, the maximum concentrations of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS, 990ng/L), perfluorooctanoate (PFOA, 1800ng/L) and perfluorononanoate (PFNA, 620ng/L) in groundwater were several times higher than those of wastewater and street runoff reported in the literature. PFAAs were more frequently detected than sewage tracers (carbamazepine and crotamiton), presumably owing to the higher persistence of PFAAs, the multiple sources of PFAAs beyond sewage (e.g., surface runoff, point sources) and the formation of PFAAs from their precursors. Use of multiple methods of source apportionment including principal component analysis–multiple linear regression (PCA–MLR) and perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acid ratio analysis highlighted sewage and point sources as the primary sources of PFAAs in the most severely polluted groundwater samples, with street runoff being a minor source (44.6% sewage, 45.7% point sources and 9.7% street runoff, by PCA–MLR). Tritium analysis indicated that, while young groundwater (recharged during or after the 1970s, when PFAAs were already in commercial use) in shallow aquifers (<50m depth) was naturally highly vulnerable to PFAA pollution, PFAAs were also found in old groundwater (recharged before the 1950s, when PFAAs were not in use) in deep aquifers (50–500m depth). This study demonstrated the utility of multiple uses of tracers (pharmaceuticals and personal care products; PPCPs, tritium) and source apportionment methods in investigating sources and pathways of PFAAs in multiple aquifer systems. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

After the Fukushima disaster, healthcare professionals were expected to function as risk communicators to the public. The purpose of this study was to explore whether there were associations between a set of risk communication competencies and having attended any of the on-site workshops that were conducted over eight years since the Fukushima disaster as part of an in-service training program for Fukushima's public health nurses (PHNs). A survey was conducted by mail from August 20 to October 8, 2019, involving 754 PHNs in Fukushima Prefecture using an anonymous self-administered questionnaire. The survey's valid response rate was 81.3% (613 responses). Respondents were asked to rate themselves on seven risk communication competencies (increasing residents' health knowledge, tailoring communication to residents' satisfaction, responding to residents' concerns, alleviating residents' distress, building trust, supporting health-related behavioral change, and supporting health-related self-efficacy) and on two items related to change in professional perspective after the Fukushima disaster (acquisition of specialized knowledge and skills and heightened professional awareness). Participation in a health literacy workshop significantly predicted four of the risk communication competencies, namely, responding to residents' concerns (OR = 1.49 (95% CI: 1.01–2.21)), alleviating residents' distress (1.65 (1.12–2.44)), building trust (1.90 (1.27–2.83)), supporting health-related self-efficacy (1.50 (1.02–2.20)), and the two changes in professional perspective, acquisition of specialized knowledge and skills (1.74 (1.15–2.62)) and heightened professional awareness (1.62 (1.09–2.43)). The study suggested that the health literacy on-site workshops had multifaceted effects in enhancing the risk communication competencies of healthcare professionals since the Fukushima disaster. • We evaluate a training program for public health nurses after a nuclear accident. • Multiple risk communication competencies and professional perspectives are assessed. • Health literacy workshops show a positive impact on these assessment indicators. • Improved self-perceived competencies may indicate heightened professional confidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] The formation of PFSs from precursors was measured in incubation tests. [•] Indigenous microorganisms in groundwater biodegraded FOSA to PFOS. [•] Addition of nutrients and soil promoted the formation of PFOS. [•] PFSs were formed from precursors in street runoff by microorganisms in groundwater. [•] PFS precursors were more abundant in street runoff than in wastewater effluent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The utility of ginkgo leaves as biomonitors of airborne polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) was evaluated. We investigated PAH concentrations among tree species, the effect of variations in leaf position in a tree, tissue distributions, correlations between ginkgo leaves and air, and seasonal variations. Among the five species examined (Ginkgo biloba L., Zelkova serrata Makino, Liriodendron tulipifera L., Prunus yedoensis Matsum, and Magnolia kobus DC.), ginkgo accumulated the greatest amount of PAHs from roadside air. Most PAHs (∼80%) were accumulated in the wax fraction, and most of the remainder (17%) penetrated the inner tissues of the leaves. PAH concentrations in ginkgo leaves decreased with increasing height and distance from the road, reflecting the derivation of PAHs from vehicle emissions. Seasonal time-series sampling showed that PAH concentrations in ginkgo leaves increased with time, attributable to the effects of temperature and accumulation through long-term exposure. Concentrations in ginkgo leaves collected from various roads showed a strong and significant correlation with those in air collected by a high-volume air sampler (r 2 =0.68, P <0.01). Ginkgo leaf data clearly showed a dramatic decrease in the ratio of low-molecular-weight (LMW) PAHs to high-molecular-weight PAHs from 2001 or 2002 to 2006, indicating that on-road diesel emission regulations effectively reduced LMW PAH concentrations in air. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The release of radioactive materials from the Fukushima nuclear power plant after the Great East Japan Earthquake on 11 March 2011 poses health risks. In this study, the intake of iodine 131 (I-131) in drinking water and foods (milk, dairy products, and vegetables) by citizens of Tokyo was estimated. The effects of countermeasures (restrictions on the distribution of foods and the distribution of bottled water for infants) on reducing intake were also evaluated. The average thyroid equivalent doses without countermeasures from 21 March 2011 were 0.42mSv in adults, 1.49mSv in children, and 2.08mSv in infants. Those with countermeasures were 0.28, 0.97, and 1.14mSv respectively, reductions of 33%, 35%, and 45%. Drinking water contributed more to intake by adults and children than foods. The intake of I-131 within the first 2weeks was more than 80% of the estimated intake, owing to its short half-life, indicating that rapid countermeasures are important in reducing intake. The average risks of cancer incidence and mortality due to I-131 for infants were estimated to be 3×10−5 and 0.2×10−5, respectively, lower than the annual risks of traffic accidents, naturally occurring radioactive material (potassium 40), and environmental pollutants such as diesel exhaust particles. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Stable nitrogen and oxygen isotope ratios of nitrate (δ15N–NO3 and δ18O–NO3) have recently been used to identify nitrogen sources in water environments. However, there have been no investigations designed to determine nitrate isotopes in non-point sources in urban areas for evaluating the impact of surface deposits on nitrogen in surface runoff. In this study, we collected rainwater, surface runoff and surface deposits (road dust, roof dust and soil) to evaluate the nitrogen sources in surface runoff using nitrate isotopes. There were no large differences in δ15N–NO3 among rainwater (−0.3‰ to 1.5‰), surface runoff (−2.7‰ to 0.4‰), leachates from road dust (−5.8‰ to 6.2‰) and soil (−11.5‰ to 0.6‰). In contrast, the δ18O–NO3 in surface runoff (28.5–47.9‰) was lower than that in rainwater (62.7–78.6‰), and higher than that in leachates from road dust (6.1–27.6‰) and soil (−1.1‰ to 6.6‰). δ18O–NO3 is a useful indicator for evaluating the NO3–N sources in surface runoff. Using this indicator, NO3–N from road dust was estimated to account for more than half of the NO3–N in surface runoff. This is consistent with a result based on a comparison of their loads per unit surface between rainwater and surface runoff, which also showed that most of the nitrogen in surface runoff was derived from surface deposits. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The contribution of non-point sources to perfluorinated surfactants (PFSs) in a river was evaluated by estimating their fluxes and by using boron (B) as a tracer. The utility of PFSs/B as an indicator for evaluating the impact of non-point sources was demonstrated. River water samples were collected from the Iruma River, upstream of the intake of drinking water treatment plants in Tokyo, during dry weather and wet weather, and 13 PFSs, dissolved organic carbon (DOC), total nitrogen (TN), and B were analyzed. Perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS), perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), perfluoroheptanoate (PFHpA), perfluorooctanoate (PFOA), perfluorononanoate (PFNA), perfluorodecanoate (PFDA), perfluoroundecanoate (PFUA), and perfluorododecanoate (PFDoDA) were detected on all sampling dates. The concentrations and fluxes of perfluorocarboxylates (PFCAs, e.g. PFOA and PFNA) were higher during wet weather, but those of perfluoroalkyl sulfonates (PFASs, e.g. PFHxS and PFOS) were not. The wet/dry ratios of PFSs/B (ratios of PFSs/B during wet weather to those during dry weather) agreed well with those of PFS fluxes (ratios of PFS fluxes during wet weather to those during dry weather), indicating that PFSs/B is useful for evaluating the contribution from non-point sources to PFSs in rivers. The wet/dry ratios of PFOA and PFNA were higher than those of other PFSs, DOC, and TN, showing that non-point sources contributed greatly to PFOA and PFNA in the water. This is the first study to use B as a wastewater tracer to estimate the contribution of non-point sources to PFSs in a river. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), a disinfection byproduct of water and wastewater treatment processes, is a potent carcinogen. We investigated its occurrence and the potential for its formation by chlorination and by chloramination in ground water and river water in Tokyo. To characterize NDMA precursors, we revealed their molecular weight distributions in ground water and river water. We collected 23 ground water and 18 river water samples and analyzed NDMA by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. was evaluated by chlorinating water samples with free chlorine for 24 h at pH 7.0 while residual free chlorine was kept at 1.0–2.0 mgCl2/L. was evaluated by dosing water samples with monochloramine at 140 mgCl2/L for 10 days at pH 6.8. NDMA precursors and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) were fractionated by filtration through 30-, 3-, and 0.5 kDa membranes. NDMA concentrations were <0.5–5.2 ng/L (median: 0.9 ng/L) in ground water and <0.5–3.4 ng/L (2.2 ng/L) in river water. NDMA concentrations in ground water were slightly lower than or comparable to those in river water. Concentrations of were not much higher than concentrations of NDMA except in samples containing high concentrations of NH3 and NDMA precursors. The increased NDMA was possibly caused by reactions between NDMA precursors and monochloramine unintentionally formed by the reaction between free chlorine and NH3 in the samples. NDMA precursors ranged from 4 to 84 ng-NDMA eq./L in ground water and from 11 to 185 ng-NDMA eq./L in river water. Those in ground water were significantly lower than those in river water, suggesting that NDMA precursors were biodegraded, adsorbed, or volatilized during infiltration. The molecular weight of NDMA precursors in river water was dominant in the <0.5 kDa fraction, followed by 0.5–3 kDa. However, their distribution was inconsistent in ground water: one was dominant in the <0.5 kDa fraction, and the other in 0.5–3 kDa. Molecular weight distributions of NDMA precursors were very different from those of DOC. This is the first study to reveal the widespread occurrence and characterization of NDMA precursors in ground water. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Samples of polyethylene pellets were collected at 30 beaches from 17 countries and analyzed for organochlorine compounds. PCB concentrations in the pellets were highest on US coasts, followed by western Europe and Japan, and were lower in tropical Asia, southern Africa and Australia. This spatial pattern reflected regional differences in the usage of PCBs and was positively correlated with data from Mussel Watch, another monitoring approach. DDTs showed high concentrations on the US west coast and in Vietnam. In Vietnam, DDT was predominant over its metabolites (DDE and DDD), suggesting the principal source may be current usage of the pesticide for malaria control. High concentrations of pesticide HCHs were detected in the pellets from southern Africa, suggesting current usage of the pesticides in southern Africa. This study demonstrates the utility and feasibility of the International Pellet Watch approach to monitor POPs at a global scale. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Groundwater contamination by heavy metals from infiltration facilities receiving road runoff is of potential concern. In this study, sorption tests were conducted to evaluate the influence of the water quality of road runoff, especially dissolved organic matter (DOM), on the sorption of heavy metal species by soakaway sediment. Sequential batch tests were conducted to assess metal sorption by the soakaway sediment receiving road runoff from residential and heavily trafficked areas. Ni was adsorbed by the sediment, indicating that soakaway sediments function to prevent groundwater contamination by Ni. In contrast, Zn was released from the soakaway sediment in sorption tests using heavily trafficked road dust leachates. Ni, Cu, Zn, and dissolved organic carbon concentrations were higher in soakaway sediment leachates obtained by sorption tests using heavily trafficked road dust leachates than those using residential road dust leachates, suggesting traffic activities contaminate these pollutants. A large portion of Zn, released from the soakaway sediment, existed as stable complexes. DOM in road runoff possibly enhances the release of Zn from the sediments within infiltration facilities and might cause groundwater contamination. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We collected surface sediment samples from 174 locations in India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and the Philippines and analyzed them for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and hopanes. PAHs were widely distributed in the sediments, with comparatively higher concentrations in urban areas (∑PAHs: ∼1000 to ∼100000ng/g-dry) than in rural areas (∼10 to ∼100g-dry), indicating large sources of PAHs in urban areas. To distinguish petrogenic and pyrogenic sources of PAHs, we calculated the ratios of alkyl PAHs to parent PAHs: methylphenanthrenes to phenanthrene (MP/P), methylpyrenes+methylfluoranthenes to pyrene+fluoranthene (MPy/Py), and methylchrysenes+methylbenz[a]anthracenes to chrysene+benz[a]anthracene (MC/C). Analysis of source materials (crude oil, automobile exhaust, and coal and wood combustion products) gave thresholds of MP/P=0.4, MPy/Py=0.5, and MC/C=1.0 for exclusive combustion origin. All the combustion product samples had the ratios of alkyl PAHs to parent PAHs below these threshold values. Contributions of petrogenic and pyrogenic sources to the sedimentary PAHs were uneven among the homologs: the phenanthrene series had a greater petrogenic contribution, whereas the chrysene series had a greater pyrogenic contribution. All the Indian sediments showed a strong pyrogenic signature with MP/P≈0.5, MPy/Py≈0.1, and MC/C≈0.2, together with depletion of hopanes indicating intensive inputs of combustion products of coal and/or wood, probably due to the heavy dependence on these fuels as sources of energy. In contrast, sedimentary PAHs from all other tropical Asian cities were abundant in alkylated PAHs with MP/P≈1–4, MPy/Py≈0.3–1, and MC/C≈0.2–1.0, suggesting a ubiquitous input of petrogenic PAHs. Petrogenic contributions to PAH homologs varied among the countries: largest in Malaysia whereas inferior in Laos. The higher abundance of alkylated PAHs... [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Perfluorinated surfactants (PFSs) in wastewater and street runoff in Japan were measured to determine their pathways of travel and utility as indicators of each to water environments. Among PFS species, perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS), perfluorooctanoate (PFOA), and perfluorononanoate (PFNA) were dominant in wastewater. PFS concentrations were higher in secondary effluents than in influents, possibly because of biodegradation of their precursors. This was supported by a significant correlation between concentration increases of PFOA and PFNA. Biodegradation of the same precursors probably produced mainly PFOA and secondarily PFNA. Concentrations of perfluorocarboxylates (PFCAs), especially longer- and even-chain PFCAs, in street runoff were equal to or higher than those in wastewater influents and secondary effluents, but PFOS concentrations were lower in street runoff. This result suggests that street runoff potentially contaminates water environments with PFCAs. In street runoff, perfluorodecanoate (PFDA), perfluoroundecanoate (PFUA), and perfluorododecanoate (PFDDA) were abundant along with PFOA and PFNA. PFS profiles in street runoff were significantly different from those in wastewater samples, suggesting that relative proportions of PFSs can be useful as indicators. Four ratios – PFOA/PFOS, PFNA/PFOS, long-chain/(short-chain+long-chain), and even-chain/(even-chain+odd-chain) – were proposed to evaluate the contributions of PFSs from wastewater and street runoff to water environments. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Post-disaster risk communication's primary goal is to restore a sense of normalcy for residents who have faced hardships. The Fukushima and Miyagi prefectural residents who experienced severe damage from the Great East Japan Earthquake were the participants (men = 257, women = 296, age = 58.40 ± 14.85) of this study, which investigated a mediation model of effective risk communication on restoring a sense of normalcy. The characteristics of risk communication that contribute positively to the restoration of normalcy were investigated along with effective intermediary factors such as behavioral changes and self-efficacy. Positive effects in risk communication with medical professionals were observed as indirect benefits in changes to health behaviors; however, they were not observed in the form of direct or overall effects. In contrast, risk communication with family, friends, and acquaintances affected post-disaster restoration of normalcy in direct and indirect ways. It is obvious that an important portion of risk communication is based on the premise of the information provided by experts. However, our results revealed that RC with family, friends, and acquaintances that did not necessarily involve experts was more important for arriving at the ultimate goal of restoring daily life. • We focus on restoration of normalcy as the primary objective of risk communication. • The restoration of normalcy consisted of four subcategories. • Risk communication with in-group members affected the restoration of normalcy. • Risk communication with medical experts affected regaining normalcy indirectly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated perfluorinated surfactants (PFSs) in size-fractionated street dust to identify their occurrence, contributions from traffic, and potential routes of entry into waters. Street dust was collected from residential areas and heavily trafficked areas in Tokyo and sorted into fine (<63μm) and coarse fractions (63–2000μm). Five PFS species were analyzed by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry: perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS), perfluorooctanoate (PFOA), perfluorononanoate (PFNA), perfluorodecanoate (PFDA), and perfluoroundecanoate (PFUA). In fine fractions, PFS contents were significantly higher in heavily trafficked street dust than in residential street dust, but in coarse fractions, no significant differences were observed. Additionally, in heavily trafficked areas, PFS contents were significantly higher in fine fractions than in coarse fractions, but in residential areas, no significant differences were observed. PFS compositions differed between size fractions, not locations, indicating differences in sources between size fractions. Fine particles from traffic contributed to PFSs in street dust. Street dust possibly acts as the origin of PFSs in street runoff and eventually enters waters. This is the first report of PFSs in street dust. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Groundwater replenishment by infiltration of road runoff is expected to be a promising option for ensuring a sustainable urban water cycle. In this study, we performed a soil infiltration column test using artificial road runoff equivalent to approximately 11–12 years of rainfall to evaluate the removal of pollutants by using various chemical analyses and bioassay tests. These results indicated that soil infiltration treatment works effectively to remove most of the pollutants such as organic matter (chemical oxygen demand (CODMn) and dissolved organic carbon (DOC)), P species, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), numerous heavy metals and oestrogenic activities. Bioassay tests, including algal growth inhibition test, Microtox® and mutagen formation potential (MFP) test, also revealed effective removal of toxicities by the soils. However, limited amounts of NO3, Mn, Ni, alkaline earth metals, perfluorooctane sulphonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctane sulphonamide (FOSA) were removed by the soils and they possibly reach the groundwater and cause contamination. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Infiltration facilities are designed for both the retention of non-point pollutants and the replenishment of groundwater in urban areas. In this study, sorption tests were conducted to evaluate the speciation of heavy metals and their behaviour in infiltration facilities receiving urban road runoff containing high DOC concentrations and stable heavy metal organic complexes. Road dust and three soakaway sediments were collected from heavy traffic areas and a residential area with an infiltration-type sewerage system in Tokyo, Japan. Sequential multiple batch tests were conducted by adding prepared road dust leachate (artificial road runoff) or deionised water to soakaway sediment to obtain soakaway sediment leachate (artificial percolating water from soakaway sediment), which mimicked the sorption by sediments in soakaways receiving urban road runoff. Heavy metal speciation was assessed by means of a combination of anion-exchange resin measurements and MINTEQA2 model calculations, and further validated by chelating resin measurements. In road dust leachates and soakaway sediment leachates, Cu predominantly existed as organic complexes and carbonates, whereas most Mn, Zn and Cd were found to exist in the form of free ions and carbonate complexes. Stable organic complexes of Cu in road dust leachates were strongly adsorbed by soakaway sediments despite the limited adsorption of DOC. On the other hand, desorption of free Mn, Zn and Cd ions from the sediment receiving road dust leachates was observed, indicating that heavy metals such as Mn, Zn and Cd may ultimately reach groundwater as free ions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We collected samples of roadside air, automobile exhaust soot, tires, asphalt, and used engine oil in a tropical Asian mega-city, Bangkok, Thailand, and analyzed them for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and hopanes. The concentrations and compositions of PAHs and hopanes were utilized to identify the sources of PAHs in street dust, in which high concentrations of PAHs were reported in our previous study. Weight-based concentrations of total PAHs had the following order: gasoline-powered vehicle soot (2600±2900 μg/g; n =4)>diesel-powered vehicle soot (115±245 μg/g; n =7)≈roadside aerosols (101±35 μg/g; n =5)≈used engine oil (97±65 μg/g; n =4)≈tire wear particles (82±41 μg/g; n =5)>asphalt (2.3±1.6 μg/g; n =3)>street dust (1.1±0.8 μg/g; n =10). In cluster analysis, all the source materials fell into different clusters from that in which street dust fell, indicating that multiple source materials contribute to PAHs in the street dust. Multiple regression analysis of PAH profiles and diagnostics of hopane compositions identified tire debris as the major contributor of PAHs to street dust, followed by diesel vehicle exhaust. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Individual particles containing Cr and/or Pb and other major components were identified in road dust from a heavily used road (hereinafter ‘heavy traffic road dust’), road dust from a residential area and soakaway sediment by electron probe microanalyser to locate their sources and carrier particles. Individual particles containing high levels of Cr and/or Pb (⩾0. 2%) were identified using wavelength dispersive spectrometry (WDS) map analysis. Chromium, Pb and other major elements were then determined by means of a combination of WDS and energy-dispersive spectrometry in all identified particles, 50 particles containing neither Cr nor Pb from each type of road dust and soakaway sediment, and yellow road line markings. WDS map analysis revealed that many particles containing both Cr and Pb were present among the identified particles in heavy traffic road dust, whereas they were minor components in road dust from the residential area and soakaway sediment. The plots of X-ray intensities of Cr vs. Pb were linear for the identified particles containing both Cr and Pb in heavy traffic road dust, and the line closely fitted the plots for the three yellow road line marking samples. Individual particles were then classified using cluster analysis of element components. The results revealed that the adsorption of source materials or released metals onto soil minerals occurred in road dust and soakaway sediment, that the yellow road line markings were sources of Cr and Pb in heavy traffic road dust, and that materials containing Fe as a major component, such as stainless steel, were additional sources of Cr in both road dust and soakaway sediment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) present in size- and density-fractionated road dust were measured to identify the important fractions in urban runoff and to analyse their sources. Road dust was collected from a residential area (Shakujii) and a heavy traffic area (Hongo Street). The sampling of road dust from the residential area was conducted twice in different seasons (autumn and winter). The collected road dust was separated into three or four size-fractions and further fractionated into light (<1.7g/cm3) and heavy (>1.7g/cm3) fractions by using cesium chloride solution. Light particles constituted only 4.0±1.4%, 0.69±0.03% and 3.4±1.0% of the road dust by weight for Shakujii (November), Shakujii (February) and Hongo Street, respectively but contained 28±10%, 33±3% and 44±8% of the total PAHs, respectively. The PAH contents in the light fractions were 1–2 orders of magnitude higher than those in the heavy fractions. In the light fractions, the 12PAH contents in February were significantly higher than the 12PAH contents in November (P <0.01), whereas in the heavy fractions, no significant difference was found (P >0.05). Cluster analysis revealed that there was a significant difference in the PAH profiles between locations rather than between size-fractions, density-fractions and sampling times. Multiple regression analysis indicated that asphalt/pavement was the major source of Shakujii road dust, and that tyre and diesel vehicle exhaust were the major sources of finer and coarser fractions collected from Hongo Street road dust, respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Road and roof dust was collected and samples of runoff were taken at an urban storm sewer system in a residential area in Japan. Suspended solids (SS) in the runoff samples were classified into two fractions: fine (smaller than 45μm) and coarse (larger than 45μm). Runoff monitoring and chemical analysis data were also used to validate a runoff model for particle-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that was originally developed to explain the behaviour of SS in the same area. The model, in which roads and roofs were considered separately as impervious surfaces, expressed the SS and particle-bound PAHs runoff behaviour for fine and coarse particles very well, except during and after heavy rainfalls (more than 10mm/h). However, the model could not explain the PAH profiles of runoff particles; the profiles of 12 PAH compounds tracked in this study were almost constant and more similar to those of road dust than roof dust throughout the event. An improved model is developed which explains the runoff behaviour by considering two types of road dust with different mobility. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This self-administered mail survey examined whether post-disaster residential location after the Fukushima nuclear power plant accident affected psychological distress, with related factors. We targeted 180,604 individuals, including 24,177 residents within evacuation order areas, in FY2011 and FY2015. Psychological distress trajectory was examined using a growth mixture model (GMM) on a total K6 score per year. Relationships between post-disaster residential location and psychological distress trajectory were examined. GMM analysis showed five distress trajectories: Group 1, continuously low (less distressed) K6 scores from FY2011; Group 2, higher than Group 1 but lower than other groups; Group 3, similar to Group 2 in FY2011 but increasing afterwards; Group 4, gradual decline (improvement) from high scores in FY2011; Group 5, continuously high throughout. Post-disaster residential location in FY2011 and trajectory type was significantly associated after adjusting for covariates. Within-prefecture residents outnumbered out-of-prefecture residents in Group 1 and vice versa in Group 5. Significant associations between residential location and distress trajectory disappeared when additional covariates (job loss, FY2012 social network, and FY2012 problem drinking) were entered into multinomial logistic regression models. Similar tendencies were observed with FY2015 residential location as the exposure variable: those who continued living out-of-prefecture had higher psychological distress than those living within (or returned to) the prefecture, owing to covariates. To prepare for future disasters, networks and systems must be established to support problem drinkers and assist with re-employment. A seamless social network will allow evacuees access to appropriate support wherever they evacuate to. • There is a need for support for both within- and out-of-prefecture residents. • Evacuees outside the prefecture had higher psychological distress. • Social network was related to trajectories of long-term psychological distress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Researchers have not comprehensively considered the contents and objectives of risk communication. In this study, interviews were conducted with 10 risk communicators who worked on risk communication of the various health risks arising after the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster in Japan. We focus on extracting, codifying, and summarizing the contexts, content, and objectives of their work. The objectives of risk communication were identified as "alleviating anxiety and stress," "supporting decision-making," "gaining trust," "promoting understanding," "deepening mutual understanding," and "sharing values and empathy"; moreover, there are new additions of higher objectives: "returning to normal life" and "cultivating a wider perspective." It was suggested that professional expertise, cooperation, and collaboration support and facilitate the attainment of these risk communication objectives. We anticipate that the findings of this study can assist in establishing effective risk communication practices based on the careful consideration of risk communication objectives, social debate on their legitimacy, and the evaluation of their effects. • We assess the content and objectives of risk communication after a nuclear accident. • Professional expertise and collaboration are the basis for communication activities. • Returning to normal life and cultivating a wider perspective were higher objectives. • This study enhances the social debate on the legitimacy of risk communication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Fukushima disaster led to a decline in the wellbeing of those affected. In this cross-sectional study, we assessed the relationship between evacuee status and wellbeing and investigated the possible variables associated with wellbeing. In January 2018, we randomly distributed questionnaires to 2000 people between the ages of 20 and 79 who lived in municipalities where evacuation orders had been lifted. The total number of participants was 680. Five types of wellbeing were measured: positive emotion, negative-free emotion, life satisfaction and general happiness, positive characteristics, and positive functioning. Irrespective of the five types, people who had already returned to their hometown reported a greater sense of wellbeing than did those who did not know whether to return. Psychological distress was negatively associated with all types of wellbeing among evacuees, whereas no significant association between psychological distress and wellbeing, except for positive functioning, was observed in people who had already returned. Among those who intend to return, the presence of an unemployed member of the household led to lower "life satisfaction and general happiness" and "positive characteristics." By contrast, a history of hypertension was negatively associated with five types of wellbeing in those who had already returned, possibly reflecting the decreased quality of medical facilities in the respondents' hometowns. To promote wellbeing among the affected people, planning regarding the lifting of evacuation orders should be promptly implemented to support the affected people's decisions regarding whether to return. Furthermore, different policy strategies for evacuees and returnees would be welcome. • This study assesses subjective and psychological wellbeing after a nuclear disaster. • Delayed decision on whether to return hometown can reduce wellbeing. • Factors associated with wellbeing differed between evacuees and returnees. • Mitigation of psychological distress is crucial for evacuees. • Medical services and employment assistance are key requirements of returnees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident in Japan, residents continue to be concerned about radiations despite strict regulations on radionuclides in foods and decontamination. We examined the trajectory of the avoidance tendency of local food among residents in the affected area. Growth mixture modelling was adapted to ten waves cohort of parents of all elementary school children (N = 1606) in the affected area (Minami soma city). The trajectory was examined for six types of food: mushrooms, milk, vegetables/fruits, meat, fish, and rice. A three-class trajectory model (Low concern adaptors, High concern adaptors, High concern maintainers) was identified regardless of the types of food. While about half of the sample was classified as high concern maintainers regarding rice, fish, and mushrooms, the proportions of the three groups were roughly equal regarding other types of food. Local food avoidance has prominently decreased five years after the accident. Multinomial logistic regression revealed that the higher the air dose rate at the place of residence at the time of the accident, the higher the probability of belonging to the high concern adaptors rather than to the low concern adaptors. Local food avoidance, which increased after the nuclear accident, decreased substantially with the lifting of evacuation orders. As local food avoidance trajectories are associated with air doses rate in the immediate post-accident residence, risk communication concerning the residence's air dose is needed. • This is the first study to examine the trajectory of local food avoidance among residents affected by the Fukushima nuclear accident. • A three class trajectory model (Low concern adaptors, High concern adaptors, High concern maintainers) best fitted regardless types of food. • Local food avoidance has prominently decreased five years after the accident. • The air dose rate of residence at the time of the accident is related to the higher local food avoidance a few years after the accident. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trust in governments and public institutions as a determinant of public health outcomes has gained increased attention since the COVID-19 pandemic. Provided historically low confidence in vaccines in Japan, investigating the role of trust in information sources and actual COVID-19 vaccination uptake behavior will be invaluable for future vaccine promotion policymaking. Therefore, the objective of this study was to elucidate the determinants of COVID-19 vaccination uptake and evaluate the relationship between trust in different information sources and COVID-19 vaccination behavior in Japan. For this study, we leveraged a longitudinal series of web-based surveys of 19,174 individuals in Japan conducted between 2021 and 2022 which asked questions regarding a wide range of sociodemographic and psychographic characteristics related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Determinant analysis for vaccination (at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine) was conducted via multiple logistic regression, and odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated. After adjustment for sociodemographic determinants of vaccine uptake, aggregate trust in the systems and institutions of vaccine approval (OR: 1.42, 95% CI: 1.30–1.56), and trust in information about the COVID-19 pandemic coming from government sources (OR: 1.27, 95% CI: 1.12–1.44) were found to be consistently powerful predictors of COVID-19 vaccination. Trust in media sources including traditional media (OR: 1.21, 95% CI: 1.07–1.36), and the internet (OR: 0.77, 95% CI: 0.66–0.89) had significant and opposing effects. Our findings support the broader hypothesis that trust in governments and public health institutions remains a powerful determinant for COVID-19 vaccine uptake in Japan. We also found that vaccination decision-making is a multifactorial process that includes the synthesis of trust in public institutions and media, and its interaction with psychosocial determinants such as prosociality and health literacy. We hope to apply this study's findings towards future vaccine programs for contagious diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of social identity on psychological distress in areas where residents had been evacuated to after the Fukushima nuclear accident. In a door-to-door survey, we surveyed 74 evacuees and 81 host community residents in a relocation area in Fukushima to evaluate whether social support mitigated evacuees' and hosts' distress and whether the social identity of each community affected distress. Social support mitigated distress in both evacuees and hosts. The construction and effect of social identity differed between groups: Evacuees had high original community (ingroup) identity, and their host community (outgroup) identity decreased their distress. Hosts had high host community (ingroup) identity but low evacuee community (outgroup) identity. Hosts with high ingroup identity who integrated outgroup identity had increased distress. These results suggest that management of social identity in addition to social support is important for mitigating psychological distress after the nuclear accident, and that support for individuals should be focused on management of both host and evacuee communities in relocation areas. • Social identity after the Fukushima nuclear accident was examined. • Social support mitigated evacuees' and hosts' distress. • Evacuees decreased distress by internalizing outgroup identity. • Hosts with high ingroup identity increased distress by internalizing outgroup identity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to decreasing water demands in Japan, hydraulic retention times of water in piped supply systems has been extended, resulting in a longer contact time with disinfectants. However, the effects of extended contact time on the formation of various disinfection byproducts (DBPs), including carbonaceous DBPs such as trihalomethane (THM) and haloacetic acid (HAA), and nitrogenous DBPs such as nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) and nitrosomorpholine (NMor), have not yet been investigated in detail. Herein, we compared the formation of these DBPs by chlorination and chloramination for five water samples collected from rivers and a dam in Japan, all of which represent municipal water supply sources. Water samples were treated by either filtration or a combination of coagulation and filtration. Treated samples were subjected to a DBP formation potential test by either chlorine or chloramine for contact times of 1 day or 4 days. Four THM species, nine HAA species, NDMA, and NMor were measured by GC-ECD or UPLC-MS/MS. Lifetime cancer risk was calculated based on the Integrated Risk Information System unit risk information. The experiment and analysis focused on (i) prolonged contact time from 1 day to 4 days, (ii) reduction efficiency by conventional treatment, (iii) correlations between DBP formation potentials and water quality parameters, and (iv) the contribution of each species to total risk. With an increased contact time from 1 day to 4 days, THM formation increased to 420% by chloramination. Coagulation-filtration treatment showed that brominated species in THMs are less likely to be reduced. With the highest unit risk among THM species, dibromochloromethane (DBCM) showed a high correlation with bromine, but not with organic matter parameters. NDMA contributed to lifetime cancer risk. The THM formation pathway should be revisited in terms of chloramination and bromine incorporation. It is also recommended to investigate nitrosamine formation potential by chloramination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anion exchange resins (AERs) with different properties were evaluated for their ability to remove dissolved organic matter (DOM) and bromide, and to reduce disinfection by-product (DBP) formation potentials of water collected from a eutrophic surface water source in Japan. DOM and bromide were simultaneously removed by all selected AERs in batch adsorption experiments. A polyacrylic magnetic ion exchange resin (MIEX®) showed faster dissolved organic carbon (DOC) removal than other AERs because it had the smallest resin bead size. Aromatic DOM fractions with molecular weight larger than 1600 Da and fluorescent organic fractions of fulvic acid- and humic acid-like compounds were efficiently removed by all AERs. Polystyrene AERs were more effective in bromide removal than polyacrylic AERs. This result implied that the properties of AERs, i.e. material and resin size, influenced not only DOM removal but also bromide removal efficiency. MIEX® showed significant chlorinated DBP removal because it had the highest DOC removal within 30 min, whereas polystyrene AERs efficiently removed brominated DBPs, especially brominated trihalomethane species. The results suggested that, depending on source water DOM and bromide concentration, selecting a suitable AER is a key factor in effective control of chlorinated and brominated DBPs in drinking water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] We evaluate the effectiveness of decontamination using the GIS in Fukushima. [•] Decontamination is a certain efficacy in terms of the external exposure reduction. [•] However, it is estimated 13–55% area is above 100mSv/30years after decontamination. [•] Forest decontamination was not effective in the view of reduction external exposure. [•] External exposure conversion coefficient is the most important parameter. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A previous report indicated that evacuation owing to the government order after the Fukushima disaster impacted the health status of older people; however, the association between living in evacuation areas and independence in their daily lives was unclear. This study examined the hypothesis that people who were forced to evacuate their homes were more likely to need long-term care (LTC). Historical cohort study. Older individuals (n = 13,934) in Minamisoma, Fukushima Prefecture, Japan, part of which was designated as an evacuation area. Background and certification data from April 2012 to December 2016 were extracted. Logistic regression analysis with sex stratification was performed to examine the association between certification of care levels 1-5 and living in evacuation areas. In total, 18,178 Minamisoma residents aged ≥65 years who had not received LTC certification as of March 11, 2011, were eligible for follow-up. Of these, 4244 residents without a certificate of residence by June 1, 2016, were excluded. Of 13,934 residents followed up, 1553 (11.1%) were newly certified as care levels 1-5. Certification of care levels 1-5 was associated with living in evacuation areas [odds ratio (OR) 1.61, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.20-2.18] and living alone at the time of the disaster (OR 2.58, 95% CI 1.92-3.47) in men and living alone at the time of the disaster (OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.15-1.59) in women. Living in evacuation areas and living alone were associated with LTC certification. In evacuation areas, individuals with family members were more likely to be certified compared with those in nonevacuation areas. Among residents in evacuation areas, several individuals with family members experiencing family structure changes might need LTC. Preventive measures (including group relocation) may be beneficial for those being evacuated following a disaster. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]