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Last Updated :2024/07/25

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Master

Affiliation (Master)

  • Faculty of Medicine　Social Medicine　Social Medicine

Affiliation (Master)

  • Faculty of Medicine　Social Medicine　Social Medicine

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Profile and Settings

Degree

  • MS（Hokkaido University）
  • PhD（Hokkaido University）

Profile and Settings

  • Name (Japanese)

    Arai

  • Name (Kana)

    Asuna

  • Name

    200901050010637142

Achievement

Research Interests

  • 疫学   公衆衛生   高齢者   Public Health   Gerontology   Epidemiology   

Research Areas

  • Humanities & social sciences / Social welfare
  • Life sciences / Healthcare management, medical sociology
  • Life sciences / Hygiene and public health (non-laboratory)
  • Life sciences / Hygiene and public health (laboratory)

Education

  •        - 2005  Hokkaido University
  •        - 2000  Hokkaido University

Awards

  • 2018/06 一般社団法人日本認知症ケア学会 平成30年度石﨑賞
     
    受賞者: 新井 明日奈

Published Papers

  • Asuna Arai, Amartuvshin Khaltar, Takashi Ozaki, Yuriko Katsumata
    Geriatric Nursing 42 (2) 509 - 516 0197-4572 2021/03 [Refereed]
  • Yoshida N, Arai A, Aoki M, Moriya M, Sekiguchi K, Shimizu T
    Journal of morphology 280 (4) 568 - 586 0362-2525 2019/02 [Refereed][Not invited]
  • Ozaki T, Katsumata Y, Arai A
    Psychogeriatrics : the official journal of the Japanese Psychogeriatric Society 19 (2) 126 - 134 1346-3500 2018/10 [Refereed][Not invited]
  • Teachers’ perspective on sexual health and relationship education in northern prefecture in Japan: A qualitative study
    Yamashina H, Arai A, Obayashi Y, Mishima T, Tamashiro H
    Asia-Pacific Social Science Review 18 (1) 184 - 192 2018 [Refereed][Not invited]
  • Amartuvshin Khaltar, Neelawala G. W. Priyadarshani, Nisansala Y. Delpitiya, Chandrika Jayasinghe, Ananda Jayasinghe, Asuna Arai, Hiko Tamashiro
    GERIATRICS & GERONTOLOGY INTERNATIONAL 17 (12) 2414 - 2420 1444-1586 2017/12 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    AimTo ascertain if the factors associated with depression differ among ethnic groups in community-dwelling older people in Kandy District, Sri Lanka. MethodsA cross-sectional survey was carried out of people aged 60years living in a single divisional secretariat of Kandy District. The participants were asked about ethnicity (Sinhalese, Tamil and Muslim), sociodemographic characteristics and depression status by face-to-face interviews with a structured questionnaire. Depression was measured by the 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale, and the total score of 6 was considered as depression. The (2)-test and multivariate logistic regression with two-way interaction terms between sociodemographic characteristics and ethnicity were carried out. ResultsParticipants (n=778) consisted of 56.6% Sinhalese, 22.1% Tamils and 21.3% Muslims. Of the participants, the prevalence of depression was 31.8% (27.3% in Sinhalese, 42.1% in Tamils and 32.9% in Muslims). Multivariate analyses showed that there were no significant interactions between sociodemographic characteristics and ethnicity. However, low economic status, low perceived social support and more than two self-reported diseases were significantly associated with depression in all ethnic groups. ConclusionsSome factors were found to be significantly associated with depression, but did not differ among ethnic groups. The findings would help practitioners to identify older people with a high risk of depression, and to intervene in its development or exacerbation. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 2414-2420.
  • Yumiko Arai, Asuna Arai, Yoko Mizuno, Naoto Kamimura, Manabu Ikeda
    PSYCHOGERIATRICS 17 (4) 262 - 266 1346-3500 2017/07 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Background: Driving cessation is a likely consequence of progressive dementia. Patients and families can benefit from support through this transition, both to safeguard the patient and public and to help preserve healthy social activity of the patient. Methods: To provide appropriate supportive information, we developed a 35-page manual ('Supporting family caregivers of older drivers with dementia') available as a free download from our department website. We then informed municipal governments of its availability, tracked website access metrics, and followed up 7 months later with a postal survey to the heads of each municipal government's department of welfare for older citizens. Results: From February to September 2010, the manual was accessed 33 494 times. Of the 1750 municipalities sent surveys, we received 1067 responses (61%). The responses showed that 943 professionals (94.6%) were able to obtain information they needed from the manual, 247 (23%) had used the manual to help residents during the 7 months, and 89% of those who used the manual used it to provide relevant advice to family caregivers. The responses also showed that significantly more use occurred in towns and villages as opposed to cities, consistent with the limited public transportation options in smaller municipalities (P = 0.002). Conclusions: We anticipate that use of this manual will raise general awareness of this social health issue and facilitate collaborations to provide more social support for those with dementia and their family members.
  • Asuna Arai, Takashi Ozaki, Yuriko Katsumata
    AGING & MENTAL HEALTH 21 (10) 1099 - 1105 1360-7863 2017 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Objective: To investigate the prevalence of the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) and associated factors in residents in long-term care (LTC) facilities.Method: We conducted a cross-sectional survey of older residents with dementia or similar symptoms (n = 312) using a questionnaire for care staff in 10 selected LTC facilities in Hokkaido, Japan. The questionnaire included sociodemographic characteristics, health conditions, living environments, and a brief questionnaire form of the Neuropsychiatric Inventory for assessing BPSD.Results: We revealed that the prevalence of BPSD in LTC facilities (percentage of people exhibiting at least one BPSD) in residents with dementia or similar symptoms was 64%. Having Alzheimer's disease, an imbalance between activities of daily living and cognitive function, poor relationships with other residents, and persistent requests in daily life were significantly associated with having BPSD.Conclusion: The prevalence of BPSD in LTC facilities was relatively low compared with other countries. The factors found to relate to BPSD may provide useful information for developing care methods to address BPSD in LTC residents.
  • Takashi Ozaki, Yuriko Katsumata, Asuna Arai
    AGING & MENTAL HEALTH 21 (12) 1248 - 1255 1360-7863 2017 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Objective: To examine whether the use of psychotropic drugs (PDs) was related to behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) focusing on the prevalence, numbers of symptoms, severity, and care burden among the elderly with BPSD living in long-term care facilities in Japan.Method: We conducted a cross-sectional survey among older people with dementia or similar symptoms (n = 312) using a questionnaire for care staff in 10 selected long-term care facilities. A brief questionnaire form of the Neuropsychiatric Inventory was used to assess BPSD.Results: PDs were used in 45% among all participants and 47.5% among those exhibiting at least one BPSD. We found that use of PDs was associated with greater numbers, severity, and care burden of BPSD. Also, there was significantly more use of PDs among people who had specific BPSD symptoms, such as delusions, anxiety, and disinhibition, compared with those who did not.Conclusion: The use of PDs among residents in long-term care facilities with dementia or similar symptoms was relatively low compared with previous reports from other countries. Nonetheless, the greater numbers, severity, and care burden of BPSD were associated with the use of PDs.
  • Kumi Kono, Sharareh Eskandarieh, Yoshihide Obayashi, Asuna Arai, Hiko Tamashiro
    JOURNAL OF IMMIGRANT AND MINORITY HEALTH 17 (6) 1654 - 1659 1557-1912 2015/12 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    We attempted to identify the risk factors that may affect mental health status of the international students and we conducted the survey using a self-administered questionnaire. Depressive symptoms were measured using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. The students were divided into two groups; (1) those who received scholarships and (2) those who didn't since we thought the division represented practical patterns of their financial status. The associations of socio-demographic characteristics with depressive symptoms were examined. Of the 726 students, 480 (66.1 %) responded and 207 (43.1 %) had depressive symptoms. The logistic regression analysis indicated that quality of sleep, amount of exercise, and housing conditions-but not financial status-were statistically associated with the risk of developing depressive symptoms. Although the inversion of the cause and effect is yet to be ascertained, the students who are unsatisfied with their housing conditions, quality of sleep and less exercise need more attention.
  • Koji Kanda, Yoshi Obayashi, Ananda Jayasinghe, G. S. P. de S. Gunawardena, N. Y. Delpitiya, N. G. W. Priyadarshani, Chandika D. Gamage, Asuna Arai, Hiko Tamashiro
    INTERNATIONAL HEALTH 7 (5) 348 - 353 1876-3413 2015/09 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    In Sri Lanka, one of the major challenges in rabies control is to manage the dog population and subsequently to protect people, especially young children, from dog bites. In 2009, an educational-entertainment campaign called 'Rabies Edutainment 4 Kids' was introduced in the school curricula in rural Sri Lanka to improve practices on rabies prevention and pet care among school children, and to evaluate its effectiveness through pre- and post-tests. The level of rabies knowledge, attitude and practice among the pupils was dependent on their responses to a survey, and scores were significantly improved both among the study and control groups after the intervention. A lecture accompanied by a rabies awareness leaflet was much more effective in improving knowledge than the leaflet alone. The type of intervention and language used was significantly associated with the score increment (p < 0.001). The threat of rabies to pupils in Sri Lanka would be reduced if they are given appropriate information on rabies prevention as a part of the school curricula. Close collaboration with local education offices is key to successful implementation of school-based rabies control programmes, which is, in turn, crucial to the eradication of rabies from Sri Lanka.
  • Yan Liu, Ying Zhang, Asuna Arai, Yoshihide Obayashi, Hiko Tamashiro
    ASIA-PACIFIC JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH 27 (2) NP1999 - NP2007 1010-5395 2015/03 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    This study aimed to explore the gender-based seasonal patterns of suicide in Japan between 2005 and 2012. With data from Japanese official reports, we carried out Prais-Winsten regression and Wilcoxon signed-rank test analysis with Stata 12.0 and SPSS 14.0. The suicide number was significantly higher in March, April, May, June, July, and October for both genders. The suicide number in men was markedly higher than that in women in every month. The suicide number in 2010 was lower than that in 2009 for men, while that in 2011 was higher than that in 2010 for women. The findings displayed that the nationwide television and publicity intervention campaigns might have positive effects on decreasing suicide of men while women suffered a post-earthquake increase. In terms of interventions, we should not only square up the seasonal patterns but also the gender differences in vulnerability.
  • Samidi Navaratna, Koji Kanda, Samath D. Dharmaratne, Sampath Tennakoon, Ananda Jayasinghe, Niroshan Jayasekara, Katsutoshi Nagano, Yoshihide Obayashi, Asuna Arai, Hiko Tamashiro
    AIDS CARE-PSYCHOLOGICAL AND SOCIO-MEDICAL ASPECTS OF AIDS/HIV 27 (3) 387 - 391 0954-0121 2015/03 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Currently, interventions for HIV/AIDS control in Sri Lanka are only carried out among the most-at-risk populations. This study was conducted to identify the level of awareness and stigma-related attitudes among the general population of Sri Lanka. A cross-sectional study was carried out among 869 residents of 18-64 years of age in Kandy, Sri Lanka. A self-administered questionnaire was utilised to obtain information about stigma, discrimination and HIV/AIDS-related knowledge. Chi-square test and multivariate analysis were applied to find possible associations between HIV-related variables and socio-demographic indicators. Response rate was 82.0%. Overall, 93.5% of the participants have heard of HIV/AIDS but the knowledge on HIV/AIDS was low with an average score of 51.7%, no statistically significant difference between genders (p = 0.352). Only 58.1% were aware that a condom was an effective tool for its prevention. There were many misconceptions related to epidemiology of HIV/AIDS. The participants showed more positive attitudes towards HIV/AIDS and people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV) for all questionnaire items except for those listed under shame and blame. Positive attitudes towards PLHIV were observed to be greater among those with a better HIV/AIDS-related knowledge score. There was no significant association between the attitudes towards PLHIV and socio-demographic characteristics such as ethnicity and religion. There is a greater need of making attempts towards educating the public regarding HIV/AIDS to eliminate misconceptions prevalent in the society. Stigma-related attitudes are mainly due to shame and blame associated with the disease. As the attitudes towards PLHIV were more positive among those with a better HIV/AIDS-related knowledge score, targeted HIV/AIDS-related health education interventions maybe recommended in this regard.
  • Asuna Arai, Yumiko Arai
    ARCHIVES OF GERONTOLOGY AND GERIATRICS 60 (1) 39 - 44 0167-4943 2015/01 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    With the increasing number of older drivers, road traffic safety is an urgent public health issue. It is not easy for older drivers or their relatives to detect early signs of dangerous driving behaviors. We examine the types of driving behavior that increase in frequency with age. We surveyed people aged 40 and over among the general public in Japan using a self-administered questionnaire on sociodemographic factors, driving status, frequency of driving, 12-items on physical symptoms possibly related to driving performance, and 28-items on driving behaviors. Multiple logistic regression models were used to estimate the odds ratios (OR) of occurrence of each of the 28 driving behaviors for a 5-year increase in age. Significant associations with a 5-year increase in age after adjusting for confounding factors were found for the following directly unsafe driving behaviors: (1) little or no sign of attempts to avoid dangerous situations (OR for a 5-year increase in age = 1.38, 95% CI: 1.18-1.63); (2) lack of attention to other people and cars (1.33, 1.12-1.60); (3) improper maneuvering around curves (1.33, 1.09-1.65); and (4) improper or no turn signals (1.33, 1.06-1.69). Information about these driving behaviors should be given to drivers and their stakeholders and used to caution participants when implementing educational programs for older drivers. Self-assessment of driving ability in older drivers provides useful information to raise awareness of their driving performance. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.
  • スリランカの母親の産後うつに関する疫学調査 ペラデニヤ大学病院の調査より
    常田 美和, 新井 明日奈, 大林 由英, 玉城 英彦
    日本公衆衛生学会総会抄録集 日本公衆衛生学会 73回 273 - 273 1347-8060 2014/10
  • Okumura S, Goto Y, Arai A, Tamashiro H
    The Japanese Society of Health Education and Promotion 22 (1) 3 - 12 2014 [Refereed][Not invited]
  • Bongani Kaimila, Hiroko Yamashina, Asuna Arai, Hiko Tamashiro
    Traffic Injury Prevention 14 (8) 777 - 781 1538-9588 2013/11 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Objective: To investigate comparative road user crash and fatality rates in Japan between 2000 and 2010 in the elderly and young. Methods: Data from the Japan Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare Vital Statistics Database and the Institute for Traffic Accident Research and Data Analysis were used to calculate crash rates by age group, vehicle, and license category. Results: Fatal crash rates per 100,000 licensed drivers for 4-wheeled motor vehicle drivers decreased by 53, 56, and 42 percent among the 65-69, 70-74, and ≥75 age groups between 2000 and 2010, respectively, compared to 66 and 60 percent among the 16-19 and 20-24 age groups, respectively. Fatal crash rates per 100,000 licensed riders for 2-wheeled motor vehicles decreased by 64, 23, and 33 percent in the 65-69, 70-74, and ≥75 age groups, respectively. Similarly, fatal crash rates per million population among bicyclists and pedestrians decreased in all age groups but were highest in the elderly age group in all years the annual fatal crash rate for elderly pedestrians was 3 to 10 times higher than that for younger pedestrians. Conclusions: Despite the overall decrease in the elderly crash and fatal crash rates in all road use categories, elderly pedestrians are more susceptible to road traffic crashes and are more likely to be killed than younger persons. Further research may reduce this risk. Supplemental materials are available for this article. Go to the publisher's online edition of Traffic Injury Prevention to view the Supplemental file. © 2013 Copyright Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.
  • Y. Liu, Y. Zhang, Y. T. Cho, Y. Obayashi, A. Arai, H. Tamashiro
    JOURNAL OF AFFECTIVE DISORDERS 151 (1) 325 - 330 0165-0327 2013/10 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Background: The effects of socio-economic factors on suicide were gender-dependent. Japanese suicide mortality gender ratio (male: female) had gradually increased during the twentieth century. Methods: With the data covering 1947-2010 collected from Japanese official websites, we conducted non-parametric rank test, curve estimations, spearman ranking correlation and quantile regression in succession with Stata version 12.0. Results: The suicide mortality rate in male with a "U" shape had been always higher than that in female with a "J" shape. The male suicide mortality peaked around in 1955 (38.5 per 100,000 populations), dropped quickly afterwards until the 19705; it increased in the 19805 with another peak in 2003 (33.2 per 100,000 populations). For female, an overall decreasing trend was seen with a peak during the 1950s (23.5 per 100,000 populations in 1958). It dropped gradually afterwards with small variations in 1970s and 80s, and was stabilized after 1995 (9.3 per 100,000 populations). The unemployment rate could be used as a single positive predictor of suicide mortality for men (p < 0.01), while the total fertility rate (TFR) (p < 0.01) and divorce rate (p < 0.01) were significantly associated positively and negatively with women's suicide, respectively. Limitations: The impact of mental disorders was not analyzed and age specific analysis was not conducted. Conclusion: The findings of these gender differences in, and the associated factors with, suicide in Japan, warranted further studies including delineation of the implications of differential economic pressure between genders, as well as child rearing pressure and marriage satisfaction. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
  • Yan Liu, Asuna Arai, Koji Kanda, Romeo B. Lee, Jay Glasser, Hiko Tamashiro
    EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH 23 (4) 563 - 568 1101-1262 2013/08 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Background: Life expectancy (LE) is a major marker of individual survival. It also serves as a guide to highlight both the progress and the gaps in total social and societal health. Comparative LE in concert with measures of gender-specific experience, indices of empowerment and societal happiness and development offer a comparative tool to examine trends and similarities of societal progress as seen through the lens of cross-national experience. Methods: To determine the gender gaps in LE (GGLE) trends, we performed a longitudinal analysis, covering a period of 49 years (1960-2008). To examine the association of GGLE with development indices, we used the 2007 GGLE data, the newest happiness data mostly drawn from 2006; the 2006 Human Development Index (HDI) data and the 2006 Gender Empowerment Measure (GEM) data. Results: It revealed that most of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries had a GGLE trend that occurred in an inverted U-curve fashion. We divided them into three subgroups based on the peak years of respective GGLE. The earlier the peak year, the happier the countries, the higher the HDI and the smaller the current GGLE are. Association analysis indicates that Happiness, HDI and GEM are all negatively associated with GGLE. Conclusion: This pattern suggests that GGLE undergoes three phases of growth, peak and stability and decline. Japan will soon be seeing its GGLE gradually shrinking in the foreseeable future. The continuing increases in Happiness, HDI and GEM are associated with a decrease in GGLE, which should be carefully taken into consideration.
  • Yan Liu, Asuna Arai, Yoshihide Obayashi, Koji Kanda, Eugene Boostrom, Romeo B. Lee, Hiko Tamashiro
    GERIATRICS & GERONTOLOGY INTERNATIONAL 13 (3) 792 - 797 1444-1586 2013/07 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Aim: This study analyzed the trend of gender gaps in life expectancy (GGLE) in Japan between 1947 and 2010, and explored the correlations of GGLE with gender mortality ratio and social development indices. Methods: Using GGLE and social indices data collected from the official websites, we carried out trends analysis of GGLE by calculating segmented average growth rates for different periods. We explored the association between GGLE and all-cause mortality; and between GGLE and Human Development Index (HDI) while controlling for time trend, by computing the generalized additive models based on the software R (version 2.15). Results: Japan's GGLE increased in a fluctuating fashion. Across 53 years, the average growth rates varied widely: 0.14% (1947-1956), 1.43% (1956-1974), 1.06% (1974-2004) and -0.60% (2004-2010) (overall average 0.87%). The value of GGLE peaked to 7.00 years in 2004, and then has slowly declined (6.75 years in 2010). Age-adjusted all-cause gender mortality ratio had a statistically positive association with GGLE (P < 0.01), whereas HDI was found to have no such association. Conclusion: The increased trend of GGLE in Japan could be partly explained by increased disease-specific mortality ratios (male/female), especially those involving chronic bronchitis and emphysema, diseases of the liver, suicide and cancer. The recent decline of GGLE might imply that Japanese women have been catching up with the lifestyle of men, resulting in similar mortality patterns. This calls for gender-sensitive approaches to developing policies and programs that will help sustain healthy lifestyles to combat smoking and alcohol intake, and social support to prevent suicide. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2013; 13: 792-797.
  • 北海道大学におけるJICA地域別研修「仏語圏アフリカ母子保健」2011-2012年度 国連ミレニアム目標(MDG)達成に向けたわが国の取組の一環として
    常田 美和, 佐藤 洋子, 松中 あや子, 大林 由英, 新井 明日奈, 玉城 英彦
    北海道公衆衛生学雑誌 北海道公衆衛生学会 26 (2) 133 - 138 0914-2630 2013/03
  • Koji Kanda, Ananda Jayasinghe, K. Tudor Silva, N. G. W. Priyadarshani, N. Y. Delpitiya, Yoshihide Obayashi, Asuna Arai, Chandika D. Gamage, Hiko Tamashiro
    GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 8 (2) 159 - 173 1744-1692 2013/02 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Religious leaders in Sri Lanka may have a high potential of contributing to HIV/AIDS prevention among the general public because of their social status. In order to assess their current HIV/AIDS-related knowledge and attitude and the possibility of becoming community advocates of HIV/AIDS prevention, we conducted a questionnaire survey among Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim and Christian leaders in Sri Lanka in 2009. There were limited correct responses about HIV/AIDS-related knowledge and attitudes toward people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV), and information regarding condoms, HIV testing and counselling were poorly understood. Although a condom was less acceptable as a part of HIV/AIDS prevention, they were willing to learn more about HIV/AIDS and expressed support for both PLHIV and HIV prevention activities. Their experiences, preparedness and willingness of HIV prevention activities were associated with age, knowledge and/or religious background. In conclusion, intensive and systematic learning opportunities should be provided to equip the religious leaders with overall HIV/AIDS knowledge to become key players for HIV/AIDS prevention in their communities.
  • Do Japanese legislators hold appropriate knowledge and perceptions on HIV/AIDS? Cross-sectional evidence.
    Goto Y, Okumura S, Kanda K, Arai A, Tamashiro H
    Asia-Pacific E-Journal of Health Social Science 2 (2) 2013 [Refereed][Not invited]
  • Asia-Pacific E-Journal of Health Social Science
    Liu Y, Priyadarshani NGW, Delpitiya NY, Tsuneta M, Jayasinghe C, Jayasinghe A, Darmarathne SD, Obayashi Y, Arai A, Lee RB, Tamashiro H
    Asia-Pacific E-Journal of Health Social Science 2 (1) 2013 [Refereed][Not invited]
  • Yumiko Arai, Keigo Kumamoto, Yoko Mizuno, Asuna Arai
    INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GERIATRIC PSYCHIATRY 27 (11) 1203 - 1204 0885-6230 2012/11 [Refereed][Not invited]
  • 神田 浩路, イブラハム-ジブリン ビルキス, ンニシ リリアン, イユル モハメド, マラカ モナパシ, ニャングル ムテンワ, ドゥラミニ ムーレ, デリー サミュエル, マディディマロ テボゴ, 大林 由英, 新井 明日奈, リー ロメオ, 玉城 英彦
    北海道醫學雜誌 = Acta medica Hokkaidonensia 87 (2) 0367-6102 2012/04/01 [Not refereed][Not invited]
  • Eskanadrieh S, Liu Y, Yamashina H, Kono K, Arai A, Lee BR, Tamashiro H
    Kokusai Hoken Iryo JAPAN ASSOCIATION FOR INTERNATIONAL HEALTH 27 (2) 165 - 170 0917-6543 2012/03 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Objective
    The purpose of this article is to investigate the extent of depressive symptoms among international students and the characteristics of those at risk.
    Methods
    Evidence is derived from self-administered questionnaire interviews of 480 international students enrolled in a university in northern Japan. Depressive symptoms are measured using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale. The associations of socio-demographic characteristics with depressive symptoms are examined using multiple logistic regression analysis.
    Results
    Of the 480 respondents, 197 (41%) have depressive symptoms. The results indicate that gender, course category, and residential arrangement are significantly associated with the risk of having depressive symptoms.
    Discussion
    Depressive symptoms are relatively prevalent, but these are not a generalized condition since these tend to occur among specific sub-groups of international students. There is a need to further investigate the mental illness so that those with elevated risks are identified and given support.
  • Yuriko Katsumata, Asuna Arai, Kozo Ishida, Masashi Tomimori, Romeo B. Lee, Hiko Tamashiro
    INTERNATIONAL PSYCHOGERIATRICS 24 (2) 307 - 315 1041-6102 2012/02 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Background: Social and lifestyle activities may serve as potential moderators of the association between negative life events (NLEs) and depressive symptoms among older adults. In this study, we examined whether social and lifestyle activities moderate the association between NLEs and depressive symptoms among older adults, and which activities are significant moderators. Methods: The data came from a community-based sample of non-institutionalized adults aged 65 years or older. Of the 731 eligible older adults, 682 completed the Japanese version of the 30-item Geriatric Depression Scale. We measured 15 specific negative life events as well as 17 social and lifestyle activities which were grouped into four categories. Results: Specific NLEs pertaining to human relationships, physical condition and financial status were all or were mostly associated with depressive symptoms. Significant moderating roles of social and lifestyle activities on the association of NLEs with depressive symptoms were observed between "loss of a significant other" and "contact with family members and friends" (beta = -0.282, SE = 0.091, p = 0.002); "change in human relationships" and "contact with family members and friends" (beta = -0.270, SE = 0.137, p = 0.048); and "change in human relationships" and "community involvement" (beta = -0.344, SE = 0.133, p = 0.010). Conclusions: The most statistically significant variable moderating the associations between negative life events and depressive symptoms was "having frequent contact with family members". Depressive symptoms arising from troublesome interpersonal relationships in one's proximal network might be moderated by positive interpersonal relationships.
  • 永嶋 良之, 新井 明日奈, 神田 浩路
    日本エイズ学会誌 日本エイズ学会 14 (2) 118 - 124 1344-9478 2012 [Not refereed][Not invited]
  • Yoko Mizuno, Keigo Kumamoto, Asuna Arai, Yumiko Arai
    JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN GERIATRICS SOCIETY 59 (12) 2388 - 2390 0002-8614 2011/12 [Refereed][Not invited]
  • スリランカの一般住民を対象としたHIV検査に関する実態調査
    神田 浩路, 永野 勝稔, 布施 千恵, Jayasinghe Ananda, Tudor Silva K., 新井 明日奈, 大林 由英, 玉城 英彦
    日本エイズ学会誌 (一社)日本エイズ学会 13 (4) 398 - 398 1344-9478 2011/11
  • 大学生のHIV検査に対する意識と受検に関する要因
    神田 浩路, 永嶋 良之, 新井 明日奈, 大林 由英, 玉城 英彦
    日本エイズ学会誌 (一社)日本エイズ学会 13 (4) 399 - 399 1344-9478 2011/11
  • A町一般住民におけるエイズに関する意識調査 我が国におけるエイズ偏見・差別尺度開発の試み
    布施 千恵, 永野 勝稔, 永嶋 良之, 藤原 悠, 神田 浩路, 新井 明日奈, 大林 由英, 玉城 英彦
    日本エイズ学会誌 (一社)日本エイズ学会 13 (4) 497 - 497 1344-9478 2011/11
  • A. Arai, Y. Mizuno, Y. Arai
    PUBLIC HEALTH 125 (11) 799 - 805 0033-3506 2011/11 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Objectives: In a motorized society, increasing numbers of drivers and their family members will have to face the issue of driving cessation late in life due to dementia or age-related conditions. Mobility support for driving retirees should be considered from a public health perspective. Compared with alternative forms of transportation, relying on family members and friends, municipality-provided mobility support services would be more reliable and practical. The present study aimed to explore the provision of mobility support measures at the community level. Study design: A cross-sectional study of all municipal governments in Japan. Methods: A nationwide survey was conducted using a postal self-administered questionnaire to explore the allocation of municipality-provided mobility support measures for two target groups: (1) healthy older residents and (2) older residents with dementia. The possible sociodemographic characteristics of municipalities affecting the implementation of such measures were examined. Results: Data from 1027 (56.8%) municipal governments were analysed. The present study demonstrated that mobility support measures for older residents, particularly dementia sufferers, were not sufficiently developed in municipalities. Moreover, the analyses showed that the following three characteristics of municipalities were related to the implementation of mobility support measures for healthy older residents: longer roads, low percentage of older residents per unit of road length, and low population density. Conclusions: These findings provide insight into the possible incentives for implementing mobility support for healthy older residents, and indicate the prospective mobility needs of driving retirees, including dementia sufferers. (C) 2011 The Royal Society for Public Health. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
  • HIV/AIDSに対する偏見差別とHIV検査への態度 高等専門学校生を対象として
    永嶋 良之, 大林 由英, 神田 浩路, 新井 明日奈, 玉城 英彦
    日本公衆衛生学会総会抄録集 日本公衆衛生学会 70回 256 - 256 1347-8060 2011/10
  • Yuriko Katsumata, Asuna Arai, Masashi Tomimori, Kozo Ishida, Romeo B. Lee, Hiko Tamashiro
    GERIATRICS & GERONTOLOGY INTERNATIONAL 11 (3) 282 - 289 1444-1586 2011/07 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Aim: This cross-sectional study examined the relationships of fear of falling and falls self-efficacy with higher-level competence among community-dwelling senior citizens in Japan. Methods: Of the 822 registered senior citizens, 731 (89%) community dwellers were requested to participate in the survey using a mailed self-accomplished questionnaire. Data from 648 respondents with duly accomplished questionnaires were analyzed using R(2), the coefficient of determination, based on a multivariate regression analysis. Results: Fear of falling, low falls self-efficacy and higher-level functional disability were observed among respondents. Of the hypothesized relationships examined by sex, fear of falling was significantly associated with disability among male respondents and low falls self-efficacy among both sexes. Several confounding variables were strongly associated with competence. Conclusion: While the data underscore the strategic importance of promoting higher-level competence among the senior citizens, there is much to suggest that their competence is likely to be maintained if their fear of falling and falls self-efficacy were modified. Programs must also consider a wide array of intervening factors. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2011; 11: 282-289.
  • 神田 浩路, 新井 明日奈, 大林 由英
    The Journal of AIDS research 日本エイズ学会 13 (2) 99 - 104 1344-9478 2011 [Not refereed][Not invited]
  • Kanda Koji, Ibrahim-Jibrin Bilkisu, M. Mnisi Lillian, M. Iyullu Mohammed, Maraka Monaphathi, K. Nyangulu Mtemwa, N. Dlamini Muhle, K. K. Dery Samuel, P. Madidimalo Tebogo, Obayashi Yoshi, Arai Asuna, B. Lee Romeo, Tamashiro Hiko
    Kokusai Hoken Iryo (Journal of International Health) 日本国際保健医療学会 26 (4) 253 - 262 2011 
    Introduction
    Whereas the numbers of new HIV infections and deaths due to AIDS have been reduced or stabilized, they remain high in sub-Saharan Africa. To further control the generalized epidemics and their consequences, countries have continued strengthening their programs to prevent new infections and deaths: however, program outcomes and impact at the national level are not well understood. The purpose of the review was to describe the country-level outcomes and impact of HIV/AIDS programs in eight sub-Saharan African countries in order to highlight future action agenda to meet universal access and policies related to Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
    Methods
    The review used 16 of the 25 program outcome and impact indicators prescribed by the United Nations General Assembly Special Session (UNGASS). The review reported on the percentages accomplished by each country in their programs, categorized these figures into high (80% and higher), moderate (50-79%) and low (below 50%), and highlighted the domains in which outcomes and impact were high.
    Results
    Across countries, with the exception of Tanzania, programs had achieved nearly universal or universal outcomes and impact, but their coverage was limited to 2-5 program domains. Moreover, in domains with multiple target groups, such as in the provision of antiretroviral therapy and in the promotion and distribution of condom use, the programs were unable to produce high-end results for the affected populations. To further reduce their infections and deaths and to advance towards universal access and MDGs, countries must make their program outcomes and impact comprehensive and equitable.
    Conclusion
    Almost all national programs have high level accomplishments, but they must broaden their domain and audience coverage to further control the generalized epidemics and deaths in the eight countries. National responses must collect and analyze all the UNGASS data systematically and regularly in order to determine current HIV/AIDS knowledge and behaviors, ascertain program effects, and inform future actions.
  • Asuna Arai, Yoko Mizuno, Yumiko Arai
    INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GERIATRIC PSYCHIATRY 25 (12) 1239 - 1245 0885-6230 2010/12 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Objective: The issue of driving cessation for dementia patients is one of the urgent public health priorities in Japan and is often complicated, with family or social barriers yet to be sufficiently addressed. Because the possibility of dementia or family caregiving can befall anyone, we focused on the disparity in people's perceptions of driving as possible barriers. The present study aimed to assess perceptions of driving among the general public and examine differences in perceptions based on age and driving status. Methods: A survey was conducted in a sample of the general public aged 40 and over in Japan. Respondents were 1010 people who received a self-administered questionnaire that included questions regarding perceptions about driving and sociodemographic factors. Results: The drivers that participated in this study tended to highly agree that 'driving is a "right" which we all deserve', compared with the non-drivers. The most common reason for reluctance to stop driving among drivers was the possible loss of personal mobility. Apart from transportation, older drivers were more likely than younger drivers to value the qualitative aspects of driving, for example, driving was viewed as 'a motivating factor in my life'. Conclusions: These disparities in the general public's perceptions about driving may be possible family or social barriers to driving cessation in the case of drivers with dementia. Our findings also suggest that when addressing the need for driving retirement, not only mobility but also the qualitative aspects of driving be paid more attention. Copyright (C) 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
  • Yoko Mizuno, Asuna Arai, Yumiko Arai
    JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN GERIATRICS SOCIETY 58 (10) 2048 - 2049 0002-8614 2010/10 [Refereed][Not invited]
  • Yumiko Araiy, Asuna Arai, Yoko Mizuno
    INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GERIATRIC PSYCHIATRY 25 (9) 896 - 899 0885-6230 2010/09 [Refereed][Not invited]
  • Yuki Shibata, Koji Abe, Asuna Arai, Yumiko Arai
    Japanese Journal of Geriatrics 47 (4) 315 - 322 0300-9173 2010 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Aim: To develop a scale for attitudes towards family caregiving of people with dementia among the general public in Japan. Methods: We conducted a postal self-administered questionnaire survey in a sample of the general population aged 20 and over: there were 2,161 (86%) valid responses. Question items in the survey included sociodemographic characteristics, attitude towards family caregiving for people with dementia, and the following three variables associated with dementia and caregiving: respondents' personal anxiety about developing dementia, their knowledge about the Long-Term Care insurance service, and their experiences of caregiving. Results: Factor analysis revealed the following four subscales within this scale: feelings of obligation towards family caregiving (F1), expected feelings of caregiving burden (F2), expectation of personal growth through family caregiving (F3), and negative attitudes towards family caregiving (F4). The Cronbach alpha coefficients for these four subscales ranged from 0.73 to 0.82. In addition, analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), with sociodemographic characteristics as covariates, showed significant relationships (1) between personal anxiety about developing dementia and both F1 and F2, (2) between personal experience of caregiving and F3, and (3) between each of the three variables associated with dementia and caregiving and F4. Conclusions: The present study confirmed the reliability and validity for the scale of attitudes towards family caregiving of people with dementia among the general public in Japan.
  • Arai Y, Arai A, Misuno Y
    Seishin shinkeigaku zasshi = Psychiatria et neurologia Japonica 1 111 101 - 107 0033-2658 2009 [Refereed][Not invited]
  • Megumi Sasaki, Asuna Arai, Yumiko Arai
    Japanese Journal of Geriatrics 45 (6) 622 - 626 0300-9173 2008/11 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Aim: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between preferred and actual place of death in community-dwelling disabled older people, based on a survey of visiting nurses. Methods: The present study was a two-year longitudinal study. At Time 1, 398 disabled older people were living together with their family caregivers. At Time 2 (two years later), the visiting nurses responded to a survey for these 398 disabled older people. The relationship between preferred and actual place of death of disabled older people was examined. Results: Of these disabled older people, 26.4% had died by Time 2. The preferences of the place of death of 60% of the disabled older people were not identified by the visiting nurses. Approximately 40% of the family caregivers' preferences concerning the place of death for their older adults were not identified by the visiting nurses. The disabled older adults tended to die at their preferred place of death if the visiting nurses had identified the preferences. Conclusion: In order to assist disabled older people to die at their preferred place of death, visiting nurses should identify the preferences of disabled older people or their family concerning the place of death of the disabled older people.
  • Asuna Arai, Yumiko Arai
    Japanese Journal of Geriatrics 45 (6) 640 - 646 0300-9173 2008/11 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Aim: To explore attitudes towards advance care planning among the general public in Japan and to examine the association between the advance care planning and awareness about dementia. Methods: We conducted a postal self-administered questionnaire survey in a sample of the general population aged 40 and over and 86% (n = 2,161) of the sample were eligible for analysis. The question items included sociodemographic characteristics, awareness about dementia (anxiety about dementia and knowledge about dementia), and advance care planning (decision making on own care preference if extra assistance were required and disclosure of their care preferences to family members). Results: More than a half of the participants had yet to consider what kind of care they preferred to receive if extra assistance were required, especially in men and younger people. Although some people had made a decision regarding care preferences, only 39% of those had disclosed their wishes for care to family members. People who had higher awareness (anxiety and knowledge) about dementia were more likely to consider or make a decision about care preferences, irrespective of age and gender. On the other hand, the disclosure of care preferences to family members was associated with the age groups but not with the extent of awareness about dementia. Conclusions: The general public in Japan are not used to determining and disclosing their own preferences on advance care planning. There is clearly a need for greater public awareness and further study about an effective method for enhancement of advance care planning.
  • Yoko Mizuno, Asuna Arai, Yumiko Arai
    INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GERIATRIC PSYCHIATRY 23 (9) 987 - 989 0885-6230 2008/09 [Refereed][Not invited]
  • 佐々木 恵, 新井 明日奈, 荒井 由美子
    日本医事新報 日本医事新報社 (4382) 70 - 73 0385-9215 2008/04/19 [Not refereed][Not invited]
  • Yumiko Arai, Asuna Arai, Steven H. Zarit
    INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GERIATRIC PSYCHIATRY 23 (4) 433 - 438 0885-6230 2008/04 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Objective The importance of early detection of dementia has been highlighted in recent years by the medical and scientific community; however, delays often occur between the recognition of signs or symptoms and a decision by the patient or family to seek professional help. Such delays may be caused by a lack of knowledge about dementia among patients and family members. The aim of this study was to determine the understanding of dementia among the general public. Methods We conducted a survey in Japan that asked 11 questions regarding knowledge of 'general' information, symptoms', and 'biomedical' issues related to dementia. A quota sampling method was used to select 2,500 participants, 2,115 of who were eligible for the analyses. Results The average number of correct responses among females was significantly greater than that among the males. A multiple comparisons test demonstrated that middle-aged women were more knowledgeable than younger and older respondents. It was revealed that there was a lack of knowledge on biomedical aspects of dementia, i.e. cause, treatment, and prognosis along with a misunderstanding of dementia as senescence forgetfulness among the general public. Conclusions There appeared to be gaps in knowledge on dementia among the general public, which may prevent caregivers from planning upcoming social and financial challenges. Correct information needs to be given by health professionals and care staff. Educational initiatives planned for the general public could be useful, and should target those groups, men and non-middle aged women who have lower knowledge. Copyright (C) 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
  • 新井明日奈, 荒井由美子
    日本老年医学会雑誌 45 (6) 640 - 646 0300-9173 2008 [Not refereed][Not invited]
  • Megumi Sasaki, Asuna Arai, Yumiko Arai
    INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GERIATRIC PSYCHIATRY 23 (1) 113 - 115 0885-6230 2008/01 [Refereed][Not invited]
  • Asuna Arai, Teruhisa Matsumoto, Manabu Ikeda, Yumiko Arai
    INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GERIATRIC PSYCHIATRY 22 (12) 1255 - 1261 0885-6230 2007/12 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Objective To compare family caregiving situations for patients with early onset dementia (EOD) and late onset dementia (LOD), and to identify the specific problems experienced by relatives caring for EOD patients. Methods The participants were chosen from 92 consecutive caregiver-patient dyads, comprising co-residing family caregivers and outpatients who fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for dementia. The patients were assessed according to cognitive function, neuropsychiatric disturbances and the severity of dementia. The caregivers completed a self-administered questionnaire that included items on their sociodemographic status and caregiving situation. Caregiver burden was assessed by the Japanese version of the Zarit Burden Interview. Results In total, 68 dyads were eligible for the analysis, 14 of which included patients with EOD and 54 of which included patients with LOD. There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of patient clinical features, duration of caregiving, number of hours during which caregivers were relieved per day or number of hours of caregiving per day. No significant associations were detected between the type of dementia and caregiver characteristics (such as health status) or caregiver burden, even after adjusting for confounding variables. However, the caregivers of EOD patients had greater perceived difficulties due to patient behavioural disturbances than did the caregivers of LOD patients. Conclusions Our findings demonstrated that additional resources, such as care services, should be provided for sufferers of EOD, in order to allow family caregivers to cope with difficulties associated with patient behavioural problems. Copyright (c) 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
  • Yuriko Katsumata, Asuna Arai, Hiko Tamashiro
    ARCHIVES OF GERONTOLOGY AND GERIATRICS 45 (1) 9 - 18 0167-4943 2007/07 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Using the data from the community-based longitudinal study of the elderly persons aged 65 or older, this study examined relationships between the occurrence of falls varied by their activity level and subsequent functional decline over time. Of the 705 respondents at baseline, 662 and 632 subjects were assessed at first and second follow-ups. Falling and homebound status at baseline and health function (self-rated general health, activities of daily living (ADLs), instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), intellectual activity, and social role) at baseline and follow-ups were assessed, and changes in each health function were compared among four groups defined by baseline falling/homebound status. Baseline falling/homebound status was significantly associated with subsequent decline in ADLs over 1 year, and in ADLs, IADLs, intellectual activity, and social role over 2 years. Being homebound might act as a stronger risk factor for ADLs disabilities rather than the occurrence of falls. Moreover, the homebound elderly with no experience of falls was at the greatest risk of the decline of social role. We consider that prevention program and home-based care for homebound elderly should be provided in the community. (C) 2006 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.
  • Megumi Sasaki, Yumiko Arai, Keigo Kumamoto, Koji Abe, Asuna Arai, Yoko Mizuno
    INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GERIATRIC PSYCHIATRY 22 (3) 250 - 257 0885-6230 2007/03 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Objective The purpose of the present study was to examine factors related to potentially harmful behaviors (PHB) by family caregivers towards their older family members. Methods Four hundred and twelve pairs of disabled older adults and their family caregivers participated in the study. All of these disabled older adults were users of visiting nursing services under the public Long-Term Care insurance system, who resided in one of the eight catchment areas of visiting nursing services in Kyoto Prefecture, Japan. The caregivers were asked to complete questionnaires in relation to their PHB towards their older family members, caregiver burden, patient-caregiver kinship, behavioral disturbances of their older adult, age and sex. Visiting nurses obtained the following information regarding the older adults: the severity of dementia; the severity of physical impairment; age and sex. Results More than 30% of the caregivers admitted PHB towards their older family members. The most frequently reported PHB included verbal aggression (16.8%) and ignoring (13.6%). A logistic regression analysis revealed that adult children (OR=2.69, 95% CI=1.23-5.89, p=0.013) and caregivers of disabled older people with behavioral disturbances (OR = 3.61, 95%CI = 1.65-7.90, p < 0.01) were more likely to show PHB. Conclusions In the present study, PHB towards the older people by family caregivers was associated with patients' behavioral disturbances and patient-caregiver kinship, i.e. an adult child as a caregiver. These findings should be taken into account when planning strategies to prevent PHB by family members. Copyright (c) 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
  • 【高齢者を取り巻く諸問題 医療と介護保険制度改革の動向】 医療制度・介護保険制度に対する認識と不安 2006年一般生活者調査から
    新井 明日奈, 佐々木 恵, 荒井 由美子
    Geriatric Medicine (株)ライフ・サイエンス 45 (2) 139 - 144 0387-1088 2007/02 [Not refereed][Not invited]
  • A. Arai, K. Ishida, M. Tomimori, Y. Katsumata, J. S. Grove, H. Tamashiro
    AGING & MENTAL HEALTH 11 (5) 547 - 555 1360-7863 2007 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    In the community- based cross- sectional study, we investigated patterns of lifestyle activities among older people and examined the association between specific types of lifestyle activity and depressed mood status. The participants were 656 men and women aged 65 or older in 2004 who lived in a rural town in Japan, neither institutionalized nor hospitalized and who did not have symptoms of dementia. We found that less interaction with neighbors, society and friends was highly associated with depressed mood for men. Additionally, although they were physically active in gardening/ farming, it did not necessarily mean that they were mentally healthy if they did not have close ties with friends, family and children/ grandchildren. For women, it seemed important to engage in several types of activities relating to society, leisure and children/ grandchildren to be in less depressed mood. Even if they were socially inactive, if they had frequent contact with family and children/ grandchildren or going out for pleasure they were less likely to be depressed. Distinguishing gender differences in lifestyle activity patterns and the association of activities with depressed mood will help to guide the development of depression intervention programs.
  • 認知症患者の交通安全対策について
    新井明日奈, 水野洋子, 荒井由美子
    精神科 11 (1) 50 - 55 2007 [Not refereed][Not invited]
  • Yuriko Katsumata, Asuna Arai, Hiko Tamashiro
    AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL MEDICINE & REHABILITATION 85 (8) 688 - 693 0894-9115 2006/08 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Objective: To examine the nonlinear association of higher-level functional capacity with the incidence of falls. Design: We analyzed the cross-sectional data of Minamifurano-town Aging Study. Seven hundred forty-three noninstitutionalized older persons aged 65 yrs or older were mailed a self-administered questionnaire in June 2002 in which they were asked the incidence of falls in the past year and their higher-level functional capacity according to the Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology (TMIG) index of competence. The association of higher-level functional capacity with the incidence of falls was examined using linear, polynomial, and nonparametric logistic regression models. Results: Under the assumption of a nonlinear function, the quadratic function and the smoothing function provided a significant improvement of the fit compared with the linear model in women but not men. Conclusion: We have proposed the use of nonlinear model in estimating the incidence of falls with respect to the total score of the TMIG index of competence. The association of varying total score with the incidence of falls in women diverged from the linearity assumption. The gender-based difference in the association of higher-level functional capacity with the incidence of falls might be related to societal role or activity- related aspects.
  • A Nakamoto, A Arai, T Shimizu
    HYDROBIOLOGIA 564 (1) 19 - 32 0018-8158 2006/07 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    In embryos of the oligochaete annelid Tubifex, most ectodermal tissues are derived from four bilateral pairs of embryonic stem cells called teloblasts (ectoteloblasts N, O, P and Q). Ectoteloblasts are generated on both left and right sides of the embryo through an invariable sequence of cell divisions of a proteloblast, NOPQ, and they are positioned in a mirror symmetric pattern relative to the embryonic midline. This mirror symmetry of ectoteloblast arrangement gives rise to the generation of bilateral symmetry in the ectoderm. Here we review results of our recent experiments on Tubifex tubifex that were designed to gain an insight into the mechanisms underlying the generation of the bilaterally symmetric organization of ectoteloblasts. Cell transplantation experiments have shown that nascent NOPQ cells can be polarized according to positional information residing in the embryo. If a left NOPQ cell is transplanted to the right side of a host embryo, it exhibits polarity comparable to that of right NOPQ cells. It has also been shown that contact between NOPQ cells serves as an external cue for their polarization. Another series of cell transplantation experiments have suggested that the competence of NOPQ cells to respond to external cues becomes undetectable shortly before the production of the first teloblast (N) from the NOPQ cell. Another series of experiments utilizing cell ablation techniques have shown that teloblasts N, P and Q are specified to express the N, P and Q fates, respectively, as early as their birth. In contrast, the O teloblast and its progeny are initially pluripotent and their fate becomes restricted through inductive signals emanating from its sister P lineage. On the basis of these findings, we have proposed a model for polarization of ectodermal teloblastogenesis in the Tubifex embryo.
  • 新井明日奈, 荒井由美子, Zarit SH
    精神科 科学評論社 9 (1) 48 - 56 1347-4790 2006 [Not refereed][Not invited]
  • 認知症高齢者の運転行動の実態－家族介護者からの評価－
    新井明日奈, 荒井由美子, 松本光央, 池田 学
    日本医事新報 4272 44 - 48 2006 [Not refereed][Not invited]
  • Y Katsumata, A Arai, K Ishida, M Tomimori, K Denda, H Tamashiro
    INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF GERIATRIC PSYCHIATRY 20 (11) 1084 - 1089 0885-6230 2005/11 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Objective To examine the relative importance of risk factors associated with depressive symptoms and gender differences in exposure to the risk factors among the elderly persons living in the community. Methods The data came from the Minamifurano-town Aging Study, a community-based sample of non-institutionalized elderly persons aged 65 years or older. Of the 731 eligible subjects, 665 were assessed for four domains of the potential risk factors (demographic characteristics, health and disability, stress, and social networks) and depressive symptoms according to the 30-item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). Results The mean overall GDS-score was 10.9 (SD 6.2), 10.2 (SD 6.0) in men and 11.6 (SD 6.4) in women. The stress domain in men and the health and disability domain in women contributed most to the explanation of the variation in the GDS-score. Conclusion 'Stress' for men and 'health and disability status' for women were important factors associated with depressive symptoms. Future studies should determine whether modification of these factors may prevent depression among the elderly persons living in the community. Copyright (c) 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
  • Arai A, Katsumata Y, Konno K, Tamashiro H
    Care Management Journals Fall 5 (3) 159 - 165 2005 [Not refereed][Not invited]
  • Arai Y, Arai A
    Seishin shinkeigaku zasshi = Psychiatria et neurologia Japonica 12 107 1335 - 1343 0033-2658 2005 [Refereed][Not invited]
  • Asuna Arai, Yuriko Katsumata, Keita Konno, Hiko Tamashiro
    Care Management Journals 5 (3) 159 - 165 1521-0987 2004/09 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Dementia is one of the common causes that lead to dependence of senior citizens in daily living. Clarifying the features of the elderly with dementia is instrumental in planning for their effective care and support in a community, and for attempts at prevention. Our purpose was to investigate the impact of sociodemographic factors among the elderly with the presumptive diagnosis of dementia. We carried out a survey annually from 1998 to 2002 in a dynamic cohort of community-dwelling individuals aged 65 years or older. Of the 945 subjects, 782 were eligible for study because at the first interview they were asymptomatic for dementia and not institutionalized. We found no significant difference in a 5-year average incidence rate between genders. However, the risk of developing dementia increased with age. The study population was categorized into three groups of living arrangement: those living with spouse and others, those living alone, and those living with persons other than the spouse. The incidence rate of dementia among the elderly who lived with spouse and others was significantly lower than for those among the other groups. This was also notable in the subjects without a history of stroke, even after adjustment for age and gender. This result indicates that living with spouse might have an important benefit in reducing the risk of developing dementia, although this effect would vary with the type of dementing disease. We suggest that preventive measures in clinical and community care of the elderly should focus on interactive social conditions such its living environments. © 2004 Springer Publishing Company.
  • A Nakamoto, A Arai, T Shimizu
    DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 272 (1) 248 - 261 0012-1606 2004/08 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    Ectodermal teloblastogenesis in the oligochaete annelid Tubifex is a spatiotemporally regulated process that gives rise to four bilateral pairs of ectoteloblasts (N, 0, P, and Q) that assume distinct fates. Ectoteloblasts on either side of the embryo arise from an invariable sequence of asymmetric cell divisions of a proteloblast, NOPQ, which occur with a defined orientation with respect to the embryonic axes: the N teloblast is generated first and located ventralmost, and the Q teloblast, which is generated next, is located dorsalmost; finally, the 0 and P teloblasts are generated by almost equal division of their precursor cell, OP. Polarity of teloblastogenesis on one side of the embryo is a mirror image of the other; this mirror symmetry of ectoteloblasts about the embryo's midline gives rise to the bilaterally symmetric organization of the ectoderm. In this Study, we examined whether Cellular interactions are involved in specification of polarity of asymmetric cell divisions in NOPQ cells. A set of cell transplantation experiments demonstrated that NOPQ cells are initially uncommitted in terms of division pattern and cell fates: If a left NOPQ cell is transplanted to the right side of a host embryo, it exhibits a polarity comparable to that of right NOPQ cells. The results of another set of cell transplantation experiments suggest that contact between NOPQ cells serves as an external cue for their polarization, irrespective of their position in the embryo, and that in the absence of host NOPQ cells, transplanted NOPQ cells can be polarized according to positional information residing in the host embryo. The competence of NOPQ cells to respond to external cues tapers down before their division into N and OPQ A set of cell ablation experiments demonstrated that neighboring cells such as posteriorly located M teloblasts and anterolaterally located micromeres play a role in controlling spatial aspects of NOPQ's behavior that gives rise to their division along the dorsoventral axis. These results suggest that NOPQ cells, which do not initially have a rigidly fixed polarity, become polarized through external cues. Possible sources of signals for this polarizing induction are discussed in the light of the present results. (C) 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
  • K Konno, Y Katsumata, A Arai, H Tamashiro
    ARCHIVES OF GERONTOLOGY AND GERIATRICS 38 (2) 153 - 166 0167-4943 2004/03 [Refereed][Not invited]
     
    The objectives of this study were to understand transition patterns and mechanisms of functional status, and to estimate active life expectancy (ALE) among senior citizens in a small town in Japan. With data drawn from surveys conducted annually from 1998 to 2002 (n = 638 at baseline), prevalence and incidence of functional disability in activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) were described and compared between the sexes. Then relationships between potential predictors and functional decline through a 4-year follow-up were examined using logistic regression. Finally, active and disabled life expectancy was estimated by Katz's method. At baseline, 9 and 12% of subjects were dependent in performing ADL and IADL, respectively. Prevalence and incidence rates increased with age. The risk of mortality increased by 2.2-5.0-fold when the subject was functionally dependent at the previous year. Advanced age, difficulty in walking and poor interest were shown to be significant predictors of loss of independence in ADL. Mean durations with disability in ADL and IADL among women were longer than among men by around 1 year. Population-specific preventive care programs considering physical, cognitive and social aspects are needed not only to maximize ALE but also to improve quality of life during survival period with disability especially in old women. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.
  • 勝亦百合子, 新井明日奈, 紺野圭太, 玉城英彦
    公衆衛生 医学書院 68 (7) 578 - 582 0368-5187 2004 [Not refereed][Not invited]
  • 新井明日奈, 勝亦百合子, 紺野圭太, 玉城英彦
    公衆衛生 医学書院 67 (8) 637 - 641 0368-5187 2003 [Not refereed][Not invited]
  • Arai A, Katsumata Y, Konno K, Ohta K, Ohtomo K, Kimura S, Takahashi M, Dobata T, Machida K
    [Hokkaido igaku zasshi] The Hokkaido journal of medical science 1 77 (1) 107 - 110 0367-6102 2002/01 [Refereed][Not invited]
  • T Shimizu, K Kitamura, A Arai, A Nakamoto
    HYDROBIOLOGIA 463 123 - 131 0018-8158 2001/11 [Not refereed][Not invited]
     
    The embryonic origin of metameric segmentation was examined in the oligochaete Tubifex using lineage tracers. Segments in Tubifex embryos arise from five bilateral pairs of longitudinal coherent columns (bandlets) of primary blast cells which are generated by five bilateral pairs of embryonic stem cells called teloblasts (M, N. O. P and Q). As development proceeds. an initially linear array of blast cells in each ectodermal bandlet gradually changes its shape in a lineage-specific manner. These morphogenetic changes result in the formation of distinct cell clumps, which are separated from the bandlet to serve as segmental elements (SEs). SEs in the N and Q lineages are each comprised of clones of two consecutive primary blast cells. In contrast, in the O and P lineages, individual blast cell clones are distributed across SE boundaries; each SE is a mixture of a part of the preceding anterior clone and a part of the next posterior clone. Morphogenetic events, including segmentation, in an ectodermal bandlet proceed normally in the absence of neighboring ectodermal bandlets. Without the underlying mesoderm, separated SEs fail to space themselves at regular intervals along the anteroposterior axis. It is suggested that ectodermal segmentation in Tubifex consists of two stages; autonomous morphogenesis of each bandlet leading to generation of SEs, and the ensuing mesoderm-dependent alignment of separated SEs. In contrast, metameric segmentation in the mesoderm (M lineage) is a one-step process in that it arises from an initially simple organization (i.e. a linear series) of primary m-blast cells. which individually serve as a founder cell of each segment. The boundary between mesodermal segments is determined autonomously. The results of a set of cell ablation and transplantation experiments, using alkaline phosphatase activity as a biochemical marker for segments VII and VIII suggest that segmental identities in primary m-blast cells are determined according to the genealogical position in the M lineage and that the M teloblast possesses a developmental program through which the sequence of blast cell identities is determined.
  • A Arai, A Nakamoto, T Shimizu
    DEVELOPMENT 128 (7) 1211 - 1219 0950-1991 2001/04 [Not refereed][Not invited]
     
    In embryos of clitellate annelids (i.e. oligochaetes and leeches), four ectodermal teloblasts (ectoteloblasts N, O, P and Q) are generated on either side through a stereotyped sequence of cell divisions of a proteloblast, NOPQ. The four ectoteloblasts assume distinct fates and produce bandlets of smaller progeny cells, which join together to form an ectodermal germ band. The pattern of the germ band, with respect to the ventrodorsal order of the bandlets, has been highly preserved in clitellate annelids, We show that specification of ectoteloblast lineages in the oligochaete annelid Tubifex involves cell interaction networks distinct from those in leeches. Cell ablation experiments have Shown that fates of teloblasts N, P and Q in Tubifex embryos are determined rigidly as early as their birth. In contrast, the O teloblast and its progeny are initially pluripotent and their fate becomes restricted to the O fate through an inductive signal emanating from the P lineage. In the absence of this signal, the O lineage assumes the P fate, These results differ significantly from those obtained in embryos of the leech Helobdella, suggesting the diversity of patterning mechanisms that give rise to germ bands with similar morphological pattern.
  • 勝亦百合子, 新井明日奈, 岸玲子, 玉城英彦
    日本公衆衛生雑誌 日本公衆衛生学会 48 (4) 298 - 303 0546-1766 2001 [Not refereed][Not invited]
     
    米国の公衆衛生学校協会の発表資料を用いて,その動向を解析した.公衆衛生大学院28校の1998年の応募者数は19750人で,女性の割合が男性を大きく上回っている.総学生数の半数以上が公衆衛生学修士(MPH)プログラムに入っており,最も一般的な取得学位となっている.28校中11校は公衆衛生分野の学位とそれ以外の学位を履修するための重複学位制度があり,学生の2.1%が登録している.組み合わせは医師/MPHが最も多いが,ソーシャルワーク修士や弁護士等の多彩な組み合わせがあり,所属学科も様々である.博士号は約1割に授与されており,卒業生の13.3%は既に医師免許を取得済みである
  • A. Arai, A. Nakamoto, T. Shimizu
    Development 128 (7) 1211 - 1219 0950-1991 2001 [Not refereed][Not invited]
     
    In embryos of clitellate annelids (i.e. oligochaetes and leeches), four ectodermal teloblasts (ectoteloblasts N, O, P and Q) are generated on either side through a stereotyped sequence of cell divisions of a proteloblast, NOPQ. The four ectoteloblasts assume distinct fates and produce bandlets of smaller progeny cells, which join together to form an ectodermal germ band. The pattern of the germ band, with respect to the ventrodorsal order of the bandlets, has been highly preserved in clitellate annelids. We show that specification of ectoteloblasts lineages in the oligochaete annelid Tubifex involves cell interaction networks distinct from those in leeches. Cell ablation experiments have shown that fates of teloblasts N, P and Q in Tubifex embryos are determined rigidly as early as their birth. In contrast, the O teloblast and its progeny are initially pluripotent and their fate becomes restricted to the O fate through an inductive signal emanating from the P lineage. In the absence of this signal, the O lineage assumes the P fate. These results differ significantly from those obtained in embryos of the leech Helobdella, suggesting the diversity of patterning mechanisms that give rise to germ bands with similar morphological pattern.
  • Cell lineage analysis of pattern formation in the Tubifex embryo. II. Segmentation in the ectoderm(jointly worked)
    Nakamoto A, Arai A, Shimizu T
    The International journal of developmental biology 44 (7) 797 - 805 2000 [Not refereed][Not invited]
  • A. Nakamoto, A. Arai, T. Shimizu
    International Journal of Developmental Biology 44 (7) 797 - 805 0214-6282 2000 [Not refereed][Not invited]
     
    Ectodermal segmentation in the oligochaete annelid Tubifexis a process of separation of 50-μm-wide blocks of cells from the initially continuous ectodermal germ band (GB), a cell sheet consisting of four bandlets of blast cells derived from ectoteloblasts (N, O, P and Q). In this study, using intracellular lineage tracers, we characterized the morphogenetic processes that give rise to formation of these ectodermal segments. The formation of ectodermal segments began with formation of fissures, first on the ventral side and then on the dorsal side of the GB the unification of these fissures gave rise to separation of a 50-μm-wide block of-30 cells from the ectodermal GB. A set of experiments in which individual ectoteloblasts were labeled allowed that as development proceeded, an initially linear array of blast cells in each ectodermal bandlet gradually changed its shape and that its contour became indented in a lineage-specific manner. These morphogenetic changes resulted in the formation of distinct cell clumps, which were separated from the handler to serve as segmental elements (SEs). SEs in the N and Q lineages were each comprised of clones of two consecutive primary blast cells. In contrast, in the O and P lineages, individual blast cell clones were distributed across SE boundaries each SE was a mixture of a part of a more anterior clone and a part of the next more posterior clone. Morphogenetic events, including segmentation, in an ectodermal handler proceeded normally in the absence of neighboring ectodermal bandlets. Without the underlying mesoderm, separated SEa failed to space themselves at regular intervals along the anteroposterior axis. We suggest that ectodermal segmentation in Tubifex consists of two stages, autonomous morphogenesis of each bandlet leading to generation of SEs and the ensuing mesoderm-dependent alignment of separated SEs.
  • A Goto, K Kitamura, A Arai, T Shimizu
    DEVELOPMENT GROWTH & DIFFERENTIATION 41 (6) 703 - 713 0012-1592 1999/12 [Not refereed][Not invited]
     
    As in other clitellate annelids, embryonic development in the oligochaete Tubifex is characterized by the generation of five bilateral pairs of teloblasts (designated M, N, O, P and Q), which serve as embryonic stem cells to produce germ bands on either side of the embryo. A large part of the tissues comprising body segments has been assigned to the progenies of the teloblasts; however, the developmental fate of each teloblast has been inferred only from its initial position in the embryo. In the present study, the fate of the progenies of each teloblast was followed by means of intracellular injection of a tracer enzyme, horseradish peroxidase. Cell fate maps for teloblasts in the Tubifex embryo were constructed. M teloblasts gave rise to nearly all of the mesodermal tissues, which included circular and longitudinal muscles, coelomic walls, nephridia (in segments VII and VIII) and primordial germ cells (in segments X and XI). Although few in number, M teloblasts also contributed cells to the ventral ganglion. Similarly, each of the ectoteloblasts, N, O, P and Q, made a topographically characteristic contribution to the ectodermal tissues such as the nervous system (i.e. ganglionic cells and peripheral neurones) and epidermis, all of which exhibited a segmentally repeated distribution pattern. The P and Q teloblasts uniquely gave rise to additional ectodermal tissues, namely ventral and dorsal setal sacs, respectively. Furthermore, O teloblasts made a contribution to the nephridiopores in segments VII and VIII as well. These results confirm the previously held view that ectoteloblasts and mesoteloblasts are the main source of ectodermal and mesodermal segmental tissues, respectively, but also suggest that all of the teloblasts produce more types of tissue than has previously been thought.

MISC

Association Memberships

  • THE JAPANESE SOCIETY OF HEALTH AND HUMAN ECOLOGY   日本老年医学会   日本老年精神医学会   北海道公衆衛生学会   日本公衆衛生学会   The Japanese Society for Dementia Care   

Research Projects

  • Japan Society for the Promotion of Science：Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research
    Date (from‐to) : 2022/04 -2025/03 
    Author : 新井 明日奈
  • Japan Society for the Promotion of Science：Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research
    Date (from‐to) : 2011/04 -2015/03 
    Author : ARAI Yumiko, KAMIMURA Naoto, KUMAMOTO Keigo, ARAI Asuna, NOGUTI Tisato
     
    Firstly, we verified the reliability of the Japanese version of the family caregiver’s self-efficacy scale regarding driving issues related to discontinuation of automobile driving in patients with dementia. Secondly, we performed a psycho-educational intervention using our manual targeting 43 subjects at the psychiatric outpatient clinic at a hospital. Three months after the intervention, our survey revealed a significantly lower traffic accident incidence in the early intervention group, suggesting the effectiveness of the present psycho-educational intervention.
  • Japan Society for the Promotion of Science：Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research
    Date (from‐to) : 2007 -2009 
    Author : ARAI Yumiko, ARAI Asuna, MIZUNO Yoko
     
    The purpose of this study was twofold : (1) to illustrate the current employment situation for foreign careworkers at caregiving facilities in Japan and (2) to examine the related measures on the acceptance of foreign careworkers under Economic Partnership Agreements. For the first purpose, mail surveys and interviews were conducted and analyzed. For the second purpose, interviews with relevant authorities and other organizations were conducted to address issues within the current system. The findings of this study may contribute to quality assurance of care service at caregiving facilities in Japan.

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