Safety Behaviors to Reduce Risk of Using Chemical Household Products: An Application of the Risk Perception Attitude Framework

Dental Students' Satisfaction With Web-Based Learning During the Initial Phase of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Mixed Methods Study

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic has precipitated an accelerated shift in education, moving from traditional learning to web-based learning. This transition introduced a notable transactional distance (TD) between the instructors and learners. Although disease control and staff and students' safety are the top priorities during a pandemic, the successful delivery of education is equally crucial. However, the ramifications of this swift transition are particularly critical in the context of dental education. Dental education is inherently practice oriented, necessitating hands-on training and manual skills development, which poses unique challenges to distance learning approaches.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to examine dental students' web-based learning satisfaction and experience of TD, investigate the predictors of web-based learning satisfaction, and explore the perceptions of students about the advantages and disadvantages of web-based learning.

METHODS

This study explored the factors associated with web-based learning satisfaction using TD theory during the transition to web-based education. Psychological factors that could influence satisfaction were adapted from the health belief model. We conducted a cross-sectional web-based survey of 345 dental students from 2 institutions in South Korea who were enrolled in the spring semester of 2020. Data were collected between July 8 and September 14, 2020. Qualitative analysis was used to examine responses to open-ended questions concerning perceptions of web-based learning.

RESULTS

A multivariate hierarchical linear regression model was used to analyze the effects of student characteristics, TD, and psychological factors (ie, perceived risk of infection and efficacy belief of web-based learning) on web-based learning satisfaction. The average score for web-based learning satisfaction was 3.62 (SD 0.84), just above the midpoint of the possible range (1-5). Self-regulated learning (β=0.08; P=.046), learner-instructor interaction (β=0.08; P=.03), and learner-content interaction (β=0.64; P<.001) were associated with higher levels of satisfaction. Moreover, a significant association was revealed between high efficacy beliefs in web-based learning (β=0.20; P<.001) and satisfaction. Although the learning structure (synchronous vs asynchronous) did not exhibit a significant association with satisfaction, the qualitative analysis results revealed that each structure possesses distinct strengths and weaknesses. The students in synchronous learning (79/345, 22.9%) recognized heightened autonomy in the "learning environment" (19/79, 24%); however, technical issues (28/79, 35%) and reduced concentration (15/79, 19%) were identified as downsides. Conversely, the students in asynchronous settings (266/345, 77.1%) emphasized unlimited access to learning content (74/266, 27.8%) and the flexibility of "learning in preferred time" (69/266, 25.9%). Nevertheless, challenges, such as self-management difficulties (66/266, 24.8%) and limited interactions (55/266, 20.7%), were evident.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggest that efforts to minimize TD, facilitating self-regulated learning and interaction among students and instructors, are critical for achieving web-based learning satisfaction. Moreover, establishing a common understanding among students regarding the necessity and efficacy of web-based learning during epidemics could enhance their satisfaction.

Associations among risk perception, health efficacy, and health behaviors for cardiovascular disease: an application of risk perception attitude framework

Background

There is currently a pervasive prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk worldwide and an inadequate amount of action is being taken to promote healthy lifestyle habits. The risk perception attitude (RPA) framework, which classifies individuals based on their risk perception and efficacy belief, enables us to predict their preventive behaviors. We applied the RPA framework to analyze CVD prevention behaviors among Chinese adults and extended its application to CVD objective risk.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was performed in two sites in Zhejiang Province, from March to August 2022, which contained self-reported CVD risk perception, objective CVD risk, efficacy belief, physical activity, healthy diet, and covariates. We used the RPA framework to categorize participants into four groups, then analysis was conducted to estimate inter-group differences in healthy behaviors. We further conducted a hierarchical logistic regression analysis with individuals' health behaviors as the dependent variable, using three blocks of independent variables.

Results

Among 739 participants, healthy physical activity and healthy diet had significant differences among four RPA groups, post hoc tests clarified that the proportion of respondents with healthy PA in the responsive group (61.6%) was significantly higher than that in the other three groups. Risk perception and efficacy belief significantly predicted health behavior against CVD; the relationship between absolute CVD risk and health behavior was moderated by efficacy belief.

Conclusions

Early CVD risk screening is crucial, but tailored support and a proper understanding of personal risk are essential to promote healthy behaviors. Developing communication and behavioral counseling intervention strategies on the basis of the RPA framework has the potential to promote healthy behaviors for CVD prevention.

Unlocking India's Potential in Managing Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs): Importance, Challenges, and Opportunities

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are a prime concern for the environment and health globally. Research shows that in developing countries such as India both the environment and human populations are severely exposed to EDCs and consequently experience rising incidents of adverse health effects such as diabetes and cancers. In this paper, we discuss the current EDC management approach in India, critically assess its limitations, and describe opportunities for potential improvements. Foremost, current EDC management actions and interventions in India are fragmented and outdated, and far behind the modern and comprehensive approaches adopted in the European Union and other developed countries. Strong and well-planned actions are required on various fronts of science, policy, commerce, and public engagement. These actions include the adoption of a dedicated and modern regulatory framework for managing EDCs, enhancing capacity and infrastructure for EDC monitoring in the environment and human population, employing public-private partnership programs for not only managing EDCs but also in the sectors that indirectly contribute toward the mismanagement of EDCs in the country, and raising awareness on EDCs and promoting health-preserving consumption habits among the public. As India hosts a large proportion of the global human population and biodiversity, the success or failure of its actions will substantially affect the direction of global efforts to manage EDCs and set an example for other developing countries.

Characterization of aerosols produced during shampoo use and harmful chemicals in shampoo aerosols

To declare a shampoo toxicologically safe, one should evaluate the hazards posed by the inhalation of aerosols produced during its use. Herein, tap water was sprayed into a shampoo-filled plastic container to investigate the formation of shampoo aerosols and the possibility of their inhalation. The aerosols thus obtained had higher mass concentrations (geometric mean = 5779 μg m^-3 (PM₁₀) and 2249 μg m^-3 (PM_2.5)) than water aerosols (geometric mean = 927 μg m^-3 (PM₁₀) and 476 μg m^-3 (PM_2.5)). In particular, shampoo aerosol particles with an aerodynamic diameter of 2.5 μm, which can penetrate the alveoli when inhaled, had the highest mass concentration (geometric mean = 2000 μg m^-3). The volatile organic compounds contained in shampoo aerosols featured alcohol and ether groups attached to dodecane and tetradecane backbones; these compounds were generated by the thermal decomposition of surfactants (i.e., lauryl and laureth sulfates) during instrumental analysis. The acquired data suggest that inhalation exposure and chronic inhalation toxicity evaluations should be performed for various shampoo usage conditions to ensure inhalation safety.

Technical assistance in the field of risk communication

This report assesses peer-reviewed and grey literature on risk communication concepts and practices, as requested by the European Commission to support the implementation of a 'General Plan for Risk Communication', i.e. an integrated framework for EU food safety risk assessors and risk managers at Union and national level, as required by the revised EU General Food Law Regulation. We conducted a scoping review of social research studies and official reports in relation to risk communication in the following areas: understanding and awareness of risk analysis roles and tasks, reducing misunderstanding of the different meaning of the terms 'hazard' and 'risk', tackling misinformation and disinformation, enhancing confidence in EU food safety, taking account of risk perceptions, key factors in trade-offs about risks, audience segmentation and tools, channels and mechanisms for coordinated risk communications. We structured our findings as follows: i) definitions of key concepts, ii) audience analysis and information requirements, iii) risk profiling, models and mechanisms, iv) contributions to communication strategies. We make several recommendations for consideration by the Commission, both in terms of actions to support the design and implementation of the general plan, and research needs that we consider crucial to further inform appropriate risk communication in the EU. EFSA carried out a targeted consultation of experts and a public consultation open to all interested parties including the general public, in preparing and finalising this report.

Chemical Exposure: European Citizens' Perspectives, Trust, and Concerns on Human Biomonitoring Initiatives, Information Needs, and Scientific Results

Over the last few decades, citizen awareness and perception of chemical products has been a topic of interest, particularly concerning national and international policy decision makers, expert/scientific platforms, and the European Union itself. To date, few qualitative studies on human biomonitoring have analysed communication materials, made recommendations in terms of biomonitoring surveillance, or asked for feedback in terms of specific biomonitoring methods. This paper provides in-depth insight on citizens' perceptions of knowledge of biomonitoring, impact of chemical exposure on daily life, and claims on how results of research should be used. Four semi-structured focus groups were held in Austria, Portugal, Ireland, and the United Kingdom (UK). The cross-sectional observational qualitative design of this study allows for better understanding of public concern regarding chemicals, application, and use of human biomonitoring. The main findings of this study include citizens' clear articulation on pathways of exposure, the demand on stakeholders for transparent decision-making, and sensitivity in communication of results to the public. Validated and trustful communication is perceived as key to empowering citizens to take action. The results can be used to facilitate decision-making and policy development, and feeds into the awareness needs of similar and future projects in human biomonitoring. Furthermore, it also brings to light ideas and concepts of citizens' in shaping collaborative knowledge between citizens', experts, scientists, and policy makers on equal terms.

Psychological and Behavioral Responses in South Korea During the Early Stages of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

Background: The psychological and behavioral responses during the early stage of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in South Korea were investigated to guide the public as full and active participants of public health emergency preparedness (PHEP), which is essential to improving resilience and reducing the population's fundamental vulnerability. Methods: Data were collected through an online survey four weeks after the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) confirmed the first case in South Korea; 973 subjects were included in the analysis. Results: Respondents' perceived risk of COVID-19 infection; the majority of respondents reported that their perceived chance of infection was "neither high nor low" (51.3%). The average perceived severity score was higher than perceived susceptibility; 48.6 % reported that the severity would be "high," while 19.9% reported "very high." Many respondents reported taking precautions, 67.8% reported always practicing hand hygiene, and 63.2% reported always wearing a facial mask when outside. Approximately 50% reported postponing or canceling social events, and 41.5% were avoiding crowded places. Practicing precautionary behaviors associated strongly with perceived risk and response efficacy of the behavior. Conclusions: Our study confirmed the significance of the psychological responses, which associated with behavioral responses and significantly influenced the public's level of public health emergency preparedness regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. This result has consequences not only for implementing public health strategies for the pandemic but also for understanding future emerging infectious diseases.