Medicor 2021 #1

medicor medicinska föreningen’s student magazine

VACCINE INEQUITY How vaccine development and distribution mirror and deepen global inequalities, with a spotlight on the Gaza Strip

THE SCIENCE BEHIND CRAVINGS

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TEDx RETURNS TO KAROLINSKA INSTITUTET

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THE DICE METHOD

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2021 | ISSUE 1

Prelude Dear Reader, After a two-year hiatus in the publication of Medicor, I am pleased and proud to present to you the first issue of 2021.

As you may have gathered, our cover story discusses the Covid19 vaccinations that currently stand in the global spotlight. As editor-in-chief, I have – ironically enough – left this story largely unedited.

The author takes a lens to how vaccine development, acquisition, and distribution intertwine with the abilities and agendas of different parts of the world. Whilst some regions and countries hold the end of the pandemic in sight, the crisis will likely continue for others. It is more important than ever to scrutinize where we stand on the ladder of global health and offer help where we can.

In the spirit of keeping ideas and discussions alive, you are welcome to respond to or comment on the content of the magazine – do reach out to us!

Photo attributed to: Xinhe Xing

Unlike previous issues, you won’t find this one at your doorstep or scattered around campus. For the first time, we’re trying to go fully digital. It is a fitting time to try; while much of our lives moved online with the pandemic, so did Medicor. We hope to strike a balance between the charm of printing and the sustainability of going digital for future issues.

If you are a long-standing reader of Medicor, you may notice that this issue looks a little different. For that, I have to thank our magazine designer Anny Truong, for her tireless efforts in making each story come alive. A special note to Timm Häneke as well, for offering both advice and experience to get us started.

On behalf of the Medicor team, I hope you enjoy this issue!

Inika Prasad Editor-in-Chief

medicor Editor-in-Chief | Inika Prasad Associate Editors | Sumedha Jassal, Vinciane Allicar Editorial Team | Rebecka Klingberg, Chang Wei-Tse, Nadine Gelmar, Tom Enriko Kelt Layout Design | Anny Truong

Cover photo attributed to: Pixnio.com, adapted by Medicor Illustrative elements used in magazine atrributed to: Microsoft PowerPoint Social media icons attributed to: Iconfinder.com Band-aid illustrations attributed to: Canva.com

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medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

Medicor Magazine Founded 2006. Fifteenth year.

Published by Medicinska Föreningen in Stockholm ISSN: 1653-9796 Responsible editor: Inika Prasad Address: Medicinska Föreningen i Stockholm Nobels Väg 10, Box 250, 171 77, Stockholm Contact Medicor: chefredaktor@medicor.nu www.medicinskaforeningen.se http://medicor.nu Freelance material: Medicor retains the right to edit incoming material and does not take responsibility for unsolicited texts or pictures, and printing mistakes. The contributor agrees that, through published and signed Medicor material, their opinions do not necessarily represent those of Medicor or Medicinska Föreningen.

Contents

SCIENCE 4 Music’s role in the pandemic 6 X, Y, and Autism 12 The Science behind Cravings 14 Humans & blood

GLOBAL FOCUS

18

12

18 Vaccine inequity

CAMPUS

50

26 TEDx returns to Karolinska Institutet 29 Medicinska Bokhandeln 32 Humans of KI - Malin Sandell 34 Blåslaget: No Style, Only Hits!

36 Student Health at KI 38 Research for students: SiF 42 MF’s Ombudspersons

CULTURE

52

42

44 Colors of Spring: Photo Competition 46 Your summer reading list 49 Queerolinska word search 50 Cooking at KI - Penne alla Vodka 52 The Dice Method

COMPETITION - find the band-aids!

54 Movie & Series recommendations

Keep an eye out for all the band-aids hidden throughout the magazine. They can be in different colors, sizes...and maybe even opacity. Who knows? If you can manage to

See page 56 for more information

find them, you could win a special prize!

about the competition!

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

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SCIENCE • MUSIC’S ROLE IN THE PANDEMIC

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medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

SCIENCE • MUSIC’S ROLE IN THE PANDEMIC

Music’s Role in the Pandemic – A Source of Escapism?

AUTHOR: ISABELLA BLOMBERG

This past year and a half has been life changing for the vast majority of the global population. The prevailing pandemic has forced many people to live in confinement, isolated from the world around them due to lockdowns and strict

”

Music induces the release of high levels of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, which give rise to a rewarding sensation

rewarding sensation. Activation of the reward system is also correlated to a decrease in brain activity associated with negative emotions. Survival-related stimuli have been strongly correlated with music and thus proved to be

rules on social distancing. This

biologically relevant when it comes

isolation has subjected us to an

to connections in the brain that are

increased risk of feeling anxious

However, during the current

involved with feeling of reward and

and lonely. This truly unique

pandemic, it might have had a

pleasure.3

situation has affected the general

more positive significance and

mental health negatively.1 What

impact on people’s mental health.

Studies have shown that listening

measures have been taken by

Music, subjective to the one

to music reduces anxiety and

individuals to subside the distress

listening, might have let people

improves mental state4, which has

caused by this pandemic? Has

escape reality, and feel better

been of great importance during

there been a way to escape?

about the situation.

the past year and a half. Music has

One tool that numerous people

Music stimulates a range of

escapism, where the redirection of

have used to escape their

emotional responses that give rise

the mind has been favourable in

depressing reality is listening to

to the sensations of “chills”. “Chills”

the case of well-being, thus

music during their times of long

can be described as a euphoric

showing that the power of music

isolation and exile. This behavior

response. Brain imaging shows

has had an undeniably positive

can be described as escapism. The

that these ”chills” give rise to a

effect.

word escapism is defined as a

feeling of being rewarded. This

“tendency to seek distraction and

feeling is similar to that which

Do you want to escape your reality

relief from unpleasant realities,

arises due to biological stimuli such

or feel less anxious? Well, then this

especially by seeking

as sex and food or those that are

is an encouragement to listen to

entertainment”.2 In the field of

artificially stimulated by drugs.

your favourite song. Even if it is just

been a source of meaningful

Photo attributed to: www.unsplash.com

psychology, the word escapism can

for a moment, to see if your mood

have a negative connotation, since

Music induces the release of high

changes. Maybe it will elicit a

it is often correlated to escaping

levels of neurotransmitters, such as

feeling of reward that might just

responsibilities and avoiding reality.

dopamine, which give rise to a

boost your mood.

References and further reading can be found at medicor.nu/read-more-2021-1

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

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SCIENCE • MALE & FEMALE AUTISM

X, Y, and Autism AUTHOR: V. F.

The ABC of ASD Today, as much as 1% of the population

causes of autism. On top of this, sex and

carries the diagnosis of autism or autistic

gender differences in the manifestation of

spectrum disorder (ASD), which is

the disorder further complicate the matter.

described by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) as “a

Genetics plays a major role in the

neurodevelopmental syndrome

development of ASD, but the impact of

characterized by difficulties with social

environmental factors cannot be

reciprocity, social communication,

understated. Even if some ASD-specific

flexibility, and sensory processing”.

alleles have already been identified, the

Moreover, individuals with ASD have

exact genotypic profile is still to be

varying language skills, with the two

mapped. The only fact that is clear so far,

extremities being completely absent

is that the mode of inheritance is not

speech and fluent language. This is where

Mendelian, with identical mutations

the term ”spectrum” comes into play:

potentially being associated with highly

autism is a continuum of developmental

varying phenotypes. De novo mutations

and cognitive states often accompanied by

further play a significant role in the

comorbidities such as epilepsy and other

development of the disorder along with the

physical and psychiatric abnormalities.

identified inherited mutations.

Cognitive development may also vary

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dramatically, with all the possible

Generally, the age of diagnosis for ASD is

conditions from profound intellectual

relatively high since, at the time of writing,

disability to above-average intelligence.

the diagnosis is still set on a purely

Thus, in the same way that no two

behavioral basis. On average, autistic

snowflakes are identical, no two patients

people receive their diagnosis after the

with ASD will show exactly the same

age of 3 or 4. This is, however, not always

phenotype. The extreme clinical

the case. As will be discussed later, one of

heterogeneity of the disorder is probably

the big challenges with female autism lies

one of the primary obstacles in

in the comparatively higher age of

understanding the pathophysiology and

diagnosis than for males.

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

SCIENCE • MALE & FEMALE AUTISM

The Y chromosome Drawing attributed to: Nadia Fedosova Adapted by: Inika Prasad

ASD is considered to be more prevalent among males compared to females, with the ratio being ca. 4.5:1 according to different sources. The cause for this difference is still quite poorly understood.

Notwithstanding, several theories have been proposed, with the most common ones being the potential involvement of the X-chromosome in the etiology of the disorder, and the effects of hormonal influences and epigenetic modifications in

repetitive behavior, interests or activities”.

utero.

What could be interesting on a side note is that atypical language development,

The typical “male-like” or the most neutral

historically associated with the diagnosis

phenotype that probably directly comes to

of ASD, has recently been removed from

one’s mind in association with the concept

the criteria. Since the language skills vary

of ASD is the classical dyad: “difficulties in

so greatly between patients, it is now

social communication and restricted and

referred to as a co-occurring condition.

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SCIENCE • MALE & FEMALE AUTISM

What sets us apart So, one may wonder what makes autism

When it comes to phenotypic and

in girls and women special. Another

behavioral representation, studies

question that arises is if ASD has a true

comparing male and female phenotypes

male prevalence or if bias in diagnostic

have revealed a number of typical

criteria artificially shift the ratio. Moreover,

differences. Generally, females usually

should female autism be classified as a

tend to have more comorbid neurological

separate condition?

abnormalities, less RRBI (“restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or

Many questions around this topic still

activities”), together with an overall higher

remain unaddressed and the findings are

level of intellectual impairment. At the

extremely complex and quite inconsistent.

same time, females exhibit better

The complex interplay between sex/

expressive behaviours despite similar

gender differences and autism and the

social difficulties and different

male bias in the prevalence of the disorder

manifestations of friendship-related

has stimulated many research projects in

behaviors. There are a number of studies

recent years, ranging from clinical and

suggesting additional characteristic

neurobiological to etiological studies.

features that may be more associated with the female phenotype, such as

In light of the fact that ASD already is

pathological demand avoidance.

highly heterogeneous when it comes to

Generally, females require a greater

genetic patterns, it might be difficult to

genetic load and more co-occurring

distinguish a female-specific genetic

conditions in order to reach the threshold

characteristic in patients with ASD.

for diagnosis compared to males, often

Moreover, de novo mutations have been

referred to as the “female protective

proposed to have a more substantial role

effect”. This is also when one of the main

in autism compared to inherited ones. An

problems with female autism becomes

interesting phenomenon is the association

significant: the diagnosis-setting is more

of paternal age with increased risk of de

complicated and therefore usually occurs

novo mutations correlating with the

later compared to males, with a high risk

increased risk of autism only in females,

of the disorder going completely

but not in males.

unrecognized.

”

The only fact that is clear so far is that the mode of inheritance is not Mendelian, with identical mutations potentially being associated with highly varying phenotypes

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medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

SCIENCE • MALE & FEMALE AUTISM

It should be noted that modern studies

Thus, the results of these studies can not

comparing the phenotypic differences

be considered completely reliable and to

between the sexes with ASD use the same

what extent the aforementioned

diagnostic criteria and generally do not

differences may be a product of the male

take into account the social gender

bias seen in ASD remains to be

differences. Therefore, they may lack

determined.

sensitivity for the female ASD phenotype.

Diagnosing and understanding female autism Drawing attributed to: Nadia Fedosova Adapted by: Inika Prasad

What could also be considered special with female autism is that even within this group, there are subgroups with highly varying traits. Female patients with classical male-like traits usually develop a cognitive delays which allow for a relatively early diagnosis and therefore early interventions.

However, the main diagnostic challenge lies in the subgroup of the higher

problem per se. It is not that women are

functioning female patients with atypical,

prone to be under-recognized, but rather

compensated, or camouflaged

that their need for a clinical diagnosis is

characteristics. These patients are more

less pronounced compared to males, or

likely to be misrecognized, and tend to

that this need arises at a later

have a much older age of diagnosis om

developmental stage. This could simply

comparison to those with more male-like

indicate that females with ASD generally

traits. Taking this fact into account, some

tend to be more socially adaptable than

studies suggest that the actual

males and manage without professional

male:female ratio in the prevalence of ASD

intervention for a longer time.

is lower than previously thought, within the interval of 2–5:1. Thus, even among the

This is where the dilemma arises: to

female population, ASD is a common,

diagnose or not to diagnose? Where is the

albeit under-recognized, problem.

line between autistic and non-autistic in this case? On one hand, a later diagnosis

This can also be seen from a different

can decrease the timeframe for getting

perspective. Some studies present the

effective intervention while the early

view that the comparatively older age of

identification of ASD may help to mitigate

diagnosis in females is not the main

the risks associated with the disorder, for

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

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SCIENCE • MALE & FEMALE AUTISM

example by identifying the patient's special

something known as social mimicry. For

needs and providing appropriate

the majority, health professionals had not

interventions. At the same time, the lack of

noticed that their symptoms might be

a diagnosis may help one escape stigma

caused by ASD, as these symptoms had

and promote a feeling of security and

been masked by other co-occuring mental

identity and thus improve the overall

conditions, such as anxiety, depression,

quality of life.

and eating disorders.

“Four to five years of depression and

”

Some studies present the view that the comparatively older age of diagnosis in females is not the main problem per se

anxiety treatment…years of talking therapy…and not once did anyone suggest I had anything other than depression”, as one of the participants recall in the study by Mandy et al.

While timely identification and intervention

The late diagnosis is, in any case, a

of female ASD is important, one should

serious concern for the wellbeing of high-

also remember not to pathologize or

functioning women with ASD. Many late-

stigmatize the women who, even

diagnosed high-functioning female

possessing high-risk autistic traits, are

patients report acting “normal” throughout

able to manage on their own and/or do not

their life, and having to camouflage the

meet the criteria for a clinical diagnosis or

autistic traits in social situations,

functional impairment.

The conclusions So, what can be concluded from the

sexes in the future, so maybe we will then

existing studies is that the phenomenon of

indeed once and for all draw a line

the late diagnosis of female autism can be

between the male and female

explained both by the specific features of

phenotypes?

the female ASD phenotype and also the modern male-based diagnostic system.

Yet, one of the most important and obvious takeaways would be that autism is a

10

Many questions about female autism and

continuous spectrum, rather than a binary

autism in general remain unanswered.

condition and that the line between

While these issues and gender bias

pathology and norm can be extremely thin,

remain relevant, it is possible that different

especially when it comes to female autistic

diagnostic criteria may arise for the two

traits.

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

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medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

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SCIENCE • FOOD CRAVINGS

The Science behind Cravings AUTHOR: MENOSHA SIVA

With the upcoming summery days,

(think along the lines of potato chips,

my mind is constantly filled with

fries, buttered popcorn), chocolate,

trying to find the best way possible to

and fatty fast food such as burgers or

do something fun – be it learning to

pizza. This idea was based on the

ride a bike at the ripe age of 21 or

”wisdom of the body” – a theory that

experiencing the cool, refreshing

the body knows what nutrients are

water of the Nordic lakes by fine-

deficient and pushes us to crave

tuning my cannonball skills.

foods that are rich in said nutrients.

However, there seems to be one

However, this theory has been

incessant, nagging feeling in the

abandoned due to the overwhelming

back of my mind – cravings. The

amount of research disproving it. For

scorching sun somehow makes me

example, one study revealed that

crave ice creams, watermelons,

obese adults put on a low-carb diet

colas and other sugary and delicious

for two years reported having

snacks. Naturally, that got me

significantly decreased cravings for

thinking, what is the reason I yearn

carbohydrates and sugar.

for hot chocolate during the winter,

Furthermore, experts clarify that we

and cocktails during the summer? In

tend to lose our appetites and veer

fact, why do I have random urges to

away from our daily diets when we

eat chocolates regardless of the

have a severe nutrition deficiency.

season?

So then, why do we crave certain

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I was glad to find out that I am not

foods? Well, people tend to crave

alone in my seemingly unexplainable

food that generally has a high calorie

cravings. Many people around the

content, leading experts to believe

world tend to crave and indulge in

there may be evolutionary

their “guilty pleasure” foods.

connections. Thousands of years

Statistically, 68% of men and a

ago, food was much scarcer and

whopping 97% of women have

hard to obtain. People had to hunt or

experienced cravings at one point in

cultivate their own food. Famine was

their lives. Globally, the most

rampant – almost as rampant as fast

common cravings include salty foods

food chains in this day and age.

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

SCIENCE • FOOD CRAVINGS

Therefore, it seems reasonable to

On a similar note, two other

conclude that we are genetically

hormones play a crucial role in

predispositioned to want high calorie

triggering cravings: ghrelin and

items and store the excess precious

peptide YY. Ghrelin is famously

calories as fat to be used later on.

known as the ‘hunger hormone’ as it stimulates the urge to intake food.

”

Statistically, 68% of men and a whopping 97% of women have experienced cravings at one point of their lives

Peptide YY, on the other hand, reduces appetite. For those night owls out there, you might want to learn about a recent study in the Journal of Sleep and Biological Rhythms that found a correlation between sleep deprivation and a change in the hormone levels indicative of obesity. This suggests that our actions, directly or indirectly,

There is another biological factor

can also be a culprit in inducing our

playing its hand in our urges to reach

cravings.

for the seemingly sinful snacks.

Humans and many other mammals

Nevertheless, getting enough sleep

are driven by hormones. Our

is not the only thing you can do to

emotions, bodily rhythms, and even

keep your cravings at bay. Eating

growth is highly regulated by these

more protein, meal planning,

hormones; a deviation from normal

managing stress, and eating before

levels will translate into a profound

grocery shopping can all help to

effect within our body. Upon scarfing

deter you from caving in to your

down a hearty meal, the hormone

pesky cravings. While the theory of

leptin is secreted by fat cells and

”the wisdom of the body” has been

signals to our brain that we are full.

debunked, mindful eating combined

However, have you ever eaten a

with a healthy diet may help to deal

large meal, only to find out you

with cravings. John Hopkins’

miraculously have some room left for

Bariatrics department even has an

dessert? This is because seeing,

online questionnaire that can help

smelling, or hearing about dessert

one distinguish between hunger and

can trigger your brain’s reward

cravings, while providing tips on

centre (which includes the ventral

mindful eating.

Photo attributed to: www.unsplash.com

tegmental area, the nucleus accumbens, and the prefrontal

However, if you’re craving non-food

cortex) while simultaneously

substances, you may want to check

releasing dopamine. Therefore, just

if you suffer from pica, a compulsive

by the thought of a soft, oozy, warm

eating disorder commonly found in

chocolate cake, your mouth starts to

pregnant women and pre-

salivate as you crave that rush of

adolescents where people crave and

dopamine. By that point, it’s a battle

consume non-food items. In this

of leptin versus dopamine, and it’s

case, please reach out to a medical

not a fair game.

professional.

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

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SCIENCE • HUMANS & BLOOD

Humans & blood AUTHOR: MIKAIL YILMAZ

14

Blood is necessary for humans. Without it, we

The science of blood

In humans, blood is composed

would be cold, pale, and of course, dead.

Blood is essential to life –

of 55% plasma (water +

Blood is a vital fluid in our bodies where it

almost all animals have it.

protein), 40% red blood cells

circulates in a complex network of arteries

Even insects have an

(RBC), and the remaining 5%

and veins. The significance of blood in the

analogous liquid called

is platelets and white blood

human mind can be appreciated by the marks

hemolymph. The blood’s main

cells. The characteristic red

it has left in our culture: contracts were

role is to help distribute

color of blood is attributed to

sealed with blood; consumption of blood is

nutrients and oxygen to every

the RBCs, which are discoid

forbidden in Judaism because it’s considered

cell in our body so they have

cells that contain the iron-

to be sacred; “bloody” is a common

the energy needed to survive.

based protein hemoglobin as

intensifying word in British English; warriors

In contrast, single-celled

the oxygen-binder. All

drank the blood of their enemies; many

organisms (e.g. bacteria, and

vertebrates have red blood,

traditional folk remedies include blood as an

fungi) and animals with high

from sharks to birds. In

ingredient; there are stories of vampires with

surface/volume ratio and slow

contrast, crustaceans, spiders,

an endless taste for blood; and for more than

metabolism (e.g. sponges,

and octopuses have blue

2,000 years, bloodletting was the dominating

corals, and jellyfish) can rely

blood because their blood

treatment in the doctor’s arsenal of remedies.

on passive diffusion of

contains the copper-based

However, the greatest impact of human’s

nutrients and oxygen from

protein hemocyanin as the

fascination with blood has been the

water to their body. Thus,

oxygen-binder. Moreover, the

discoveries of the blood’s biological

these animals don’t need

breakdown of RBCs gives rise

properties, which have benefited millions of

blood. Similarly, one part of the

to the colors in bile, urine, and

human lives.

human body is in direct contact

stool. A similar color transition

with the air and can get oxygen

can be seen in contusions

by passive diffusion without the

(commonly known as bruises):

need for blood – the cornea of

first red, then blue, then green,

the eye.

then yellow, and lastly brown.

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

SCIENCE • HUMANS & BLOOD

AnemiA, B, & O

discovered the blood groups in

transfusion. A serious

A shortage of RBCs or

ABO-system and Rh-system.

consequence of incompatible

hemoglobin is called anemia

With this knowledge,

blood groups is that a person

and is a common condition,

transfusion became an

with Rh+ pregnant with a Rh-

especially amongst people

accessible treatment.

fetus will lead to an immune

who menstruate. There are

reaction against the unborn

many causes of anemia, but

The idea is that an individual

child. However, there are

one of the most interesting

without a certain sugar

treatments for this.

ones is called sickle cell

molecule on their RBC cannot

anemia. This anemia is caused

take blood from someone with

Studies of ethnic distribution of

by a genetic mutation that

that particular sugar molecule:

blood groups in the world have

renders the RBCs “sickle-

people with blood type O

found that native Americans

shaped” which reduces the life

cannot receive blood with

almost exclusively have O-

span of RBCs from the usual 4

types A, B, or AB; despite the

blood type. One explanation

months to a mere 2 weeks.

reverse being true. Those with

for this is that the whole native

Interestingly, this condition is a formidable defense against malaria. As a consequence of an evolutionary adaptation, it is common for people living in zones of widespread malaria (e.g. Africa) to have sickle cell anemia. On a similar note, one of the world’s most common enzymatic mutations is G6PDdeficiency – affecting 400

American population started off of 8-10 families with high-

”

One problematic blood group that does not have any sugar molecules connected to the ABO-system is the Bombay blood group

million people mostly around

frequency of O-blood type and wandered to Alaska around 14,000 years ago. O-blood type is also common in Malaria-spread areas in Africa, and has protective properties against malaria. In comparison, the most common blood type in Europe is A, and the most common in Asia is B.

the Mediterranean sea – which causes hemolysis during

the blood group A cannot

One problematic blood group

infections and thereby protects

receive B or AB, with a similar

that does not have any sugar

against malaria.

set-up for blood group B.

molecules connected to the

However, the blood group AB

ABO-system is the Bombay

Historically, as physicians

can receive all other group. In

blood group, which can only

realized the importance of

the same fashion, those with

receive blood from other

blood as a life force, they have

Rh- cannot receive Rh+,

people of the same blood

tried to transfuse blood from

despite the inverse being able

group. This blood group is rare

lambs and calves to humans.

to receive Rh-. This means that

and mostly found in the Indian

These attempts had dire ends

blood group O- is the universal

subcontinent. The purpose of

(one physician recalls: “his

donor and AB+ is a universal

blood groups is not fully

urine became black as soot

receiver. There are, in fact,

known, but it’s suggested that

and then he died”). Therefore,

hundreds of different blood-

different endemic infectious

transfusion was often

grouping systems, but the two

diseases can be a reason (e.g.

prohibited, even between

aforementioned systems are

malaria). A recent study found

humans. Then in 1901, Nobel

most dangerous if not

A-blood type was linked to

prize winner Karl Landsteiner

considered in blood

worse COVID-19 infections.

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

15

SCIENCE • HUMANS & BLOOD

What blood can tell us

Blood might even be a more

the patient (in Swedish: BAS-

In the clinic, a patient’s blood

significant diagnostic tool than

test). As such, O- blood is

gives a variety of useful

we’ve thought before, as new

given as it is highly compatible

information about bodily

research shows that

with most blood types; this can

functions. Thus, blood is

Alzheimer’s disease can be

be life-saving. Blood is also

almost always analyzed in a

potentially identified in a blood

used for research. However,

hospital, e.g., to measure

analysis. Some cancers can be

the source of that bag of blood

blood glucose level.

detected through blood

is blood donations. During the

analysis as well. In the future,

Covid-19 pandemic, donations

we might have the technology

have tapered off.

to detect a myriad of diseases using blood alone.

One bag of blood is used every minute in Sweden. So don’t

In an emergency situation,

forget to donate some of that

there might not be enough time

red life force running in your

to make a blood group test of

veins. The blood donor gets benefits such as checkup for anemia, checkup for common blood-borne viruses (HIV, hepatitis) and you get to know your blood group!

Tips: You can donate blood in Odenplan (Blodcentralen, Norrtullsgatan 6), which has a great view over Stockholm, offers free food and a choosable gift after blood donation!

Interesting facts about blood: • Research has shown that mosquitoes prefer blood type O. • Our blood contains around 0.2 milligrams of gold.

• Irrational fear of blood is called hemophobia.

• The culture of bloodletting was taken over by barbers who hung a bloody towel outside their stores, which have over time transformed into the familiar Barber’s pole.

16

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

SCIENCE • HUMANS & BLOOD

”

One bag of blood is used every minute in Sweden

Photo attributed to: www.unsplash.com

– TOBIAS STRÖM, FOUNDER OF REGNBÅGSBLOD

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

17

GLOBAL FOCUS • VACCINE INEQUITY

Photo attributed to: www.pixnio.com, adapted by Medicor

Vaccine inequity

AUTHOR: JULIA TERPINSKA

As vaccination systems against SARS-Cov-2 are rolling out in developed countries, the differences between the access to equitable healthcare around the world become more striking than ever. With the ambitious plans of the EU Commission to vaccinate 70% of the EU adult population by summer 20211, and the hopes of containing the spread in the US by fall 20212, developed countries hold the end of the COVID-19 pandemic in sight. Yet, questions about systemic privilege and vaccine inequity have blatantly started to be unveiled once more. The devastating example spotlights the humanitarian crisis and medical apartheid in the Gaza Strip, a part of the Occupied Palestinian Territory under the control of the State of Israel.

18

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

GLOBAL FOCUS • VACCINE INEQUITY

Vaccine appetite: endowing lessons learned from previous epidemics

interesting mechanisms are antibody coupling and T-cell responses, which cause inflammation and worsen disease onset during reinfection in a

The COVID-19 pandemic largely deviates from

process called vaccine-associated disease

other modern-day pandemics by the effect it has

enhancement (VADE).4 Moreover, coronavirus

had on different sectors of life. However, the most

spike protein was found responsible for the initial

prominent has been its scope. As it strongly

infection process and identified as a molecular

affected enterprises on the global market,

target. Accounting for these and other processes,

developed countries saw their usual response of

SARS-Cov-2 vaccine safety and efficacy could be

turning a blind eye impeded. In contrast, the crisis

more easily optimized, which subsequently

twisted into a global display of power and

accelerated SARS-Cov-2 vaccine development.5

privilege.

Although coronavirus vaccine research has The speed of crisis mitigation and mobilization

grown with knowledge on previous epidemics, it

within the developed regions has been truly

lacked an additional factor that would bring

astounding. Since the initial months of the

profits. Since COVID-19 has a high mortality, rate

pandemic, the administrations of the developed

is more contagious, and took its toll on a massive

countries have reversed the shrinking trend in

number of people, its overall exerted impact has

vaccine development. A loss of interest in vaccine

been larger. However, it became the most

research investment persisted for years before

momentous due to the effect it had on the global

the COVID-19 outbreak due to high research

market, as well as socio-political attitudes,

costs, relatively low prices of vaccines, and a

healthcare systems, and education within the

decrease in demand within a few years of

developed countries. States with prolific

3

appearing on market. The European Union and

infrastructure experienced a direct need for crisis

the United States poured billions of dollars into

mitigation, and successfully prompted productive

the research and development of SARS-Cov-2

SARS-Cov-2 vaccine development.6

vaccines, luring large pharmaceutical companies and small research groups alike to endeavor on

This presents a subtler aspect of vaccine inequity,

the path of vaccine exploration and related

where such countries and enterprises, building on

fundamental research. They adjusted legal

the best available science and their knowledge

frameworks and secured virtual doses from the

capital, hold the power to direct resources and

most promising suppliers, prompting SARS-Cov-2

overcome large public health issues. On the other

vaccine research to be lower in risk and more

hand, states with shortfalls in healthcare and

profitable for the vaccine industry. Coupled with

research infrastructure have an impaired potential

existing immunological knowledge from the

to implement structural solutions – such as

previous epidemics, vaccine development was

vaccine development – which often leads to more

faster than ever before.

severe public health outcomes. It is curious to notice that COVID-19 is not the only pandemic

Several epidemic crises before COVID-19,

crisis we are living in at the moment, with the

markedly SARS and MERS outbreaks, saw a

example of the ongoing HIV/AIDS pandemic, but

slower response from the market and states.

its mitigation has been faster due to its socio-

However, they also sparked curiosity around

economic scope, as well as microbiological

coronavirus vaccine research and revealed

differences.7

pertinent molecular mechanisms. Particularly

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

19

GLOBAL FOCUS • VACCINE INEQUITY

Vaccines are ready - but that doesn’t mean you will get one

mirroring his vaccine syringe to a rocket.11 Although Israel did not actively partake in vaccine research as Russia, China, the EU and the US

Following vaccine development and

did, it was largely successful at vaccine

manufacturing, the access to the vaccines in the

diplomacy. Due to the available resources and

market has been largely compromised by

rapid response, it was able to pay top prices for

economic positions as well as infrastructural

the doses and acquire them in bulk as early as

factors, which led to stark vaccine inequities and

December 2020.

legal auth

access to

remains d

earned critique from WHO Director-General 8

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Currently, while Israel launches vaccinations for Israeli youth, a debate sparks on the legal and

The issue is exacerbated by the strength of the

moral accountability of Israel’s vaccination

capitalistic market, where profit plays a central

program. Its epidemic relief success is

role. Developed countries claimed the entitlement

internationally bound to translate to a similar

to the first servings of the vaccine and were able

outcome in its occupied territories, as stated in

to gobble up twice or thrice the number of doses

the Fourth Geneva Convention.12 Yet, to this day,

needed to cover their population, due to their

the Occupied Palestinian Territory (oPt) has

9

prior investments or financial grounding.

managed to vaccinate a mere 8% of its

Concurrently, low-income, fragile states, often in

population.13 The Palestinian Authority has

the Global South, cannot offer substantial prices

received only 2000 doses of Moderna vaccine

and, thus, compete individually for the vaccines in

from the Israeli officials, according to the UN

the market.

OCHA report for June 2021.14 With 369 thousand individuals in a 2 million population vaccinated

Additionally, SARS-Cov-2 vaccine development

with the first dose by June 10th, the Gaza Strip

and acquisition turned into a diplomatic and

remains hundreds of thousands of vaccines

political asset. Alongside the developed countries,

short.15 Moreover, although the general infection

Chinese and Russian administrations sprinted

rate remains low, its COVID-19 cases had risen

towards vaccine research and Russia proudly

by 58% from March to April 2021 before the

named its first SARS-Cov-2 vaccine in the world

coronavirus testing was impeded by Israeli

– SputnikV. Now they proceed to strengthen their

violence escalation in May 2021.16,17 This

global influence by distributing vaccines to

demonstrates how within the same legal authority

countries in the Global South in bilateral deals,

(concerning pandemic mitigation), the access to

often in exchange for other benefits. It prompts

vaccines remains divided between religions and

these countries to increase their dependence on

ethnicities.

external bodies and consent to more compromises, which forces them to pay a higher

Palestinian Authority and Hamas-run Gazan

price and deepens vaccine inequity.10

governance were hindered from swift vaccine purchase due to fragile position in the market

However, drastic differences in vaccine inequity

(which further deteriorated upon the border

do not only span across the Global North and

blockade imposed by Israel and Egypt in 200718).

South; they are even more striking a few

Instead, oPt had to rely on global governance to

kilometers apart. Israel, having vaccinated more

obtain the doses. The issue of inequitable

than 63% of its population by June 2021, ranks

vaccine distribution stimulated WHO, CEPI, Gavi,

as the world leader in COVID-19 mitigation. Its

and UNICEF to cooperate in the establishment of

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu centered the

a COVID-19 vaccination program for low-income

promise of an effective vaccination program

countries, called COVAX. Up to date, it secured

during his reelection campaign; he kicked off the

enough doses to cover 20% of low-income

Israeli vaccine rollout by paraphrasing Neil

countries’ population.19

Armstrong’s first words on the moon and

20

”

Within the

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

between

and ethni

GLOBAL FOCUS • VACCINE INEQUITY

e same

Capital and quality step in, licenses keep them safe – and shrink vaccine availability

hority the

Although COVAX managed to gather some of the

technologies in one package and enable easier

essential funds, it experienced large issues with

access to vaccine manufacturing in low- and

the supply chain. The manufacturing step, under

middle-income countries.22

to strengthen pharma participation in pool patenting. Covid-19 Technology Access Pool was established at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic to integrate several patents and

o vaccines

the current legal regulations, is milk and honey for

divided religions

the pharmaceutical companies; and it presents

Currently, several vaccine companies are

itself in the form of patents. Large market demand

committing to ship doses to COVAX for more

for SARS-Cov-2 vaccines allows the few

equitable distribution.23 Scaling up of vaccine

enterprises to steer the vaccine prices.

production is essential when we think about the

icities

threat of potential, more dangerous, and vaccineCurrently, a limited number of manufacturers are

immune SARS-Cov-2 variants, as well as basic

licensed by pharmaceutical companies to

human decency.

produce SARS-Cov-2 vaccines. Irrespective of vaccine research being partially funded from state

Unfavorably, more bottlenecks are starting to

resources, the intellectual property rights over the

emerge in the COVAX system, including export

developed vaccines, as well as confidential know-

controls, syringe shortages, and a deficit of skilled

how information, are owned by the

vaccine workers.24 Moreover, with other

pharmaceutical companies. By keeping their

manufacturers remaining passive in the initial

procedures secret, the leading vaccine parties

stage of COVAX vaccine rollout, AstraZeneca

protect their heavy investments and knowledge

supplies from Serum Institute of India powered

capital, which allows them to reduce competition

the COVAX system by up to 90%.25

and collect the highest profits. However, it also results in a much lower throughput of vaccine

Such a one-party-oriented supply was also

production.

condemned to failure. It transpired alongside the infection surge and emergence of massive

Different regulatory maneuvers ensure company

farmers’ protests in India, which were grounded in

control over a certain vaccine and a handful of

the extreme events of climate change.26 In March,

others that enable an increase in manufacturing.

the Indian manufacturer was forced to reroute the

Paid or voluntary licenses are examples of

resources meant for other countries to counteract

variations where the main enterprise has a choice

rapidly spreading infections on Indian streets,

over which companies would produce its vaccine.

effectuating delayed COVAX supplies from

At the beginning of vaccine distribution, it was

AstraZeneca.27 With the developed countries

only AstraZeneca that decided to disclose the

hoarding doses and the manufacturing chain

vaccine protocol in such a way to large third

disrupted, the Occupied Palestinian Territory

parties, i.e., Serum Institute of India, and thus,

managed to receive the first COVAX doses only

scale-up production.

on March 17th, 2021.28

Yet, it still fell short in scope, with other

On the other hand, Israel ensured a firm head

manufacturers preferring to license smaller

start through an agreement with Pfizer with

companies, and seeking investment in the

competitive funds and solid infrastructure. While

Photo attributed to: www.unsplash.com

20

extension of their own production lines. As a

Israel prevails as a model in a successful

rationale, concerns were raised over the quality of

vaccination sprint for the general public, it stands

vaccines from the third parties and potential

as a country-wide model on pandemic mitigation

counterfeit.21 Nevertheless, it resulted in a

for Pfizer.

bottleneck of vaccine production and a WHO call

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

21

GLOBAL FOCUS • VACCINE INEQUITY

”

The issue exacerbates with the strength of the capitalistic market, where profit plays a central role

Rolling up the sleeves – infrastructure at hand

reported by the International Medical Corps.32 Another threat to infection spreads is also posed by large clusters in refugee camps and a

Medical data in a highly functioning healthcare

population density within the Strip that is 32 times

system contribute an enormous asset in

higher than that of Israel.33 It is further

negotiations, adding another dimension to

exacerbated by hampered water, sanitation, and

vaccine diplomacy. For years, Israel has been

hygiene (WASH) systems.34

operating a detailed medical database on, among others: age, sex, co-existing medical conditions,

All these factors, induced by the blockade,

and side effects of the vaccinations, which

contributed to an immense risk of untamable

encompassed the whole of its relatively small

infection surge and large dependence of Gazan

population. Such information is invaluable both

healthcare on international medical and

for the optimization of vaccines in the present

humanitarian aid. During the COVID-19

sprint, as well as for a place in the evolving world

pandemic, as of June 1st, 2021, the region

of Big Data, which tempted Pfizer to center Israel

received 196 500 doses of the vaccine from

29

in its vaccine distribution. Moreover, the

COVAX, country-specific donations, and bilateral

digitalized system allowed Israel to optimize its

deals.35 However, they still cannot accommodate

vaccination rollout and prioritize the most

for more complex systemic issues attributable to

vulnerable groups.30

the blockade, such as import restrictions and a deficit of resources.36 Therefore, it positioned

Good healthcare supports vaccine distribution;

Israel and the Gaza Strip at significantly different

differences between healthcare quality contribute

levels of preparedness attributable to the

to vaccine inequity. Infrastructure preparedness

healthcare system and infrastructure prior to the

may consist of vaccination centers, access to

COVID-19 outbreak.

personal protective equipment, skilled staff, and a

22

comprehensive, digitized medical platform – all of

Counterintuitively, the same rigorous blockade

which balance the utility of vaccine supply and

allowed for early detection and isolation of

become essential for smooth pandemic

infected individuals before they crossed the

management. The Gazan Ministry of Health

border. All travelers must pass through land

struggled with the supply of basic health services

controls, since the region is surrounded by

due to the 2007 blockade, which led to insufficient

military forces, and there is no airport or seaport.

medical equipment and electricity access that

With the help of humanitarian aid, several

powers it.31 The blockade strained Gazan

quarantine centers were established, and the sick

infrastructure even before the COVID-19

could be directly referred there. Therefore, up

outbreak – 1.5 million Gazans do not have

until May 2021, the spread was significantly lower

adequate access to healthcare provision, as

than in other regions of the world.37

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

GLOBAL FOCUS • VACCINE INEQUITY

Knocking down infrastructure; boosting vaccine inequities However, the situation worsened on account of the eviction of Palestinians from Sheikh Jarrah, open fire by Hamas, and subsequent attacks from the Israeli military in May 2021.38 At the most severe moment, 113 thousand Palestinians were internally displaced, and presently, this number remains at 9 thousand internally displaced people.39 Early detection and prevention was also impeded by 70% when the main lab testing center was bombed.40 The growing number of residents experiencing physical trauma and requiring immediate treatment placed tremendous stress on the Strip’s healthcare system.

Simultaneously, 9 (out of 30) hospitals, 19 (out of 147) primary healthcare centers, and key hospital accessways were damaged by the Israeli airstrikes.41 This posed an immense threat to the uncontrolled spread of COVID-19. The hospitals and clinics also served as vaccination centers, and with sustained damage, their vaccination capacity plunged.42 It represents a situation, in which the drastic inequities in both vaccine supply and related infrastructure are worsened by direct military violence. It had implications in aggravated vaccination rollout, which further deepened inequities in vaccination programs between the Israeli and Gazan regions.

”

Since the initial months of the pandemic, the administrations

Photo attributed to: www.unsplash.com

of the developed countries have reversed the shrinking trend in vaccine development

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

23

GLOBAL FOCUS • VACCINE INEQUITY

”

Now, more than ever, efforts from all socio-economic bodies need to be amplified to prevent and eradicate the occurrence of stark vaccine inequities

What is to come?

systems.43 At that time, the SARS-Cov-2 virus risks mutating to more dangerous variants and

Vaccine inequity has many faces, some of them

further straining global public health. It also exerts

more obvious than others. Prominently, they

a strong impact on social and economic

entail differences in the production and supply

inequities, such as compromised education

chains – from vaccine research and development,

during school closures. UNESCO predicts 23.8

through manufacturing and diplomacy, to the

million youth to drop out of school due to the

distribution capacity of related healthcare

COVID-19 crisis, including 11.2 million girls.44

infrastructure. These inequities can also be

Girls’ education has a stronger effect on the

actively exacerbated by military violence,

country’s economy, as it affects adolescent

straining vaccine rollouts even in places under

pregnancies, women’s emancipation, and

the same pandemic mitigation authority, like Gaza

household earnings to a larger extent.45 Many

Strip and Israel. Regardless of the legal,

outcomes of the COVID-19 crisis are yet to be

economic, and scientific complexities, vaccine

observed in the decades to come.

inequity directly impacts the livelihoods of billions and exposes some social groups to more severe

Equitable vaccine distribution could diminish

outcomes of pandemics like COVID-19.

COVID-19’s negative upshoot. Ideas about patents sold in bulk under COVID-19 Technology

Yuval Harari writes in his book 21 lessons for 21st

Access Pool have the potential to satisfy large

century about the threat of growing biological

demand for SARS-Cov-2 vaccines and could be

differences between humans, where one group

more warranted and encouraged by the

can diverge from another due to their advanced

respective states. A prospect of assigning SARS-

biological adaptations, mainly grounded in

Cov-2 vaccines equitably stands, for instance, in

economic prospects. Although in my judgment, it

stronger global governance through COVAX as a

is currently a far-fetched scenario, differences in

leading vaccine authority. In the spirit of a

immunities of certain groups doubtlessly are a

frequently repeated “no one is safe until everyone

brick in the wall that supports such division.

is safe”, the developed countries and large pharmaceutical companies should step up and

Vaccine inequity is also not an isolated problem.

support WHO in vaccine distribution.46 Now, more

With the expected mass immunizations in low-

than ever, efforts from all socio-economic bodies

income countries not kicking off before 2022 or

need to be amplified to prevent and eradicate the

2023, it exposes weaker states to prolonged

occurrence of stark vaccine inequities. And the

pandemic crisis management and puts additional

health, social and economic inequities that follow.

weight on their economies and healthcare

24

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

Photo attributed to: www.unsplash.com

GLOBAL FOCUS • VACCINE INEQUITY

References and further reading can be found at medicor.nu/read-more-2021-1

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

25

CAMPUS • TEDxKI

Check out all these amazing talks and performances from the TEDxKI - From Mirage to Oasis

The Art of Mental Health Advocacy | MATILDA

To Solve a Crisis, Just Look at What Is Around You | OLLE

(crazyheadcomics)

BJERKÅS

How Public Is Our Public Land? | PAULA URBANO

Rainbow Blood: The Need of an Evidence-Based Blood Donation Policy in Sweden | TOBIAS STRÖM

Musical Performance| ELENA KÜSSNER & XINHE XING

Musical Performance | PALOMA RUIZ DE CASTROVIEJO TEBA

26

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

CAMPUS • TEDxKI

TEDx returns to Karolinska Institutet AUTHOR: MARIA PAVLOU

Most of us have heard a TED talk

I was one of the Public Relations

which is an unrelenting task that

before – these are organized by TED

Directors on the TEDxKI team, and

requires ongoing communication with

and have gathered billions of views

we embarked on this journey in mid-

all the members of the team. To help

around the world. But did you know

March. It began with a flurry of

us build and improve we had endless

that anyone can organize a TEDx

activity – planning, coordinating, and

meetings where we shared ideas and

event for their own community?

creating an image and profile for

brainstormed together

TEDxKI was our top priority.

Well, I’m proud to say that TEDx

Our team wanted to make sure that

returned to Karolinska Institutet after

Creating this image required

the first TEDx event at KI in a decade

a decade on May 27th, 2021.

maintaining a social media presence,

was memorable – a task that is

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

27

CAMPUS • TEDxKI

always tricky, and even more so with

The last weeks before the event

skills. Not to mention, I met new,

an online event. To get the full TEDx

were the hardest, as everything was

amazing people which made this

event experience, we included

coming together and final

process even more fun!

breakout rooms, interactive activities,

preparations took place. Although

and a post-event mingle to help our

there were plenty of things to

Overall, I am so proud of being a part

attendees connect with each other

consider and manage, the best part

of this team, and I am so happy that

and the speakers. It was a blast!

is that we had a blast. Not only on

our social media campaign was

the day of the event but in all of

successful in building a fully-fledged

those months preparing.

event!

through the programme. To me, it

My favorite part of being a part of the

If you are interested in being part of

represents a journey, a transition.

team was the creative thinking

the future team organizing the next

Thee beautiful thing is that this

behind our work and the interactive

TEDxKI event, stay tuned for

thread is open to interpretation; every

role in online presence. Furthermore,

upcoming announcements!

speaker and attendee had a different

I got to improve my communication

and uniquely personal way that the

competence through social media

theme spoke to them.

and sharpen my graphic design

The theme was “From Mirage to Oasis”, and drew a red thread

28

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

CAMPUS • MEDICINSKA BOKHANDELN

Medicinska Bokhandeln – the student’s bookstore AUTHORS: MIKAEL YILMAZ & JULIA EHRENSTRÖM

Medicinska bokhandeln (MB) has long been the students' safe haven for finding course literature. The bookstore has, over the years, contributed to a more vibrant campus. Many people know MB as it is located in front of the lecture hall Berzelius. The admirable, detailed anatomical drawings from Andreas Vesalius' masterpiece, De humani corporis fabrica (published 1543), decorate the glass walls. However, only a few know the view from MB’s perspective. We have been permitted to interview the operations manager – Svetlana.

What is MB? MB is a small business bookstore that is mainly owned by Medicinska Föreningen (MF). It is run in the form of a limited company. The company is divided into two units that cooperate; these are MB in Solna and Harrys böcker in Huddinge. We have a small staff group, including me, the operations manager, and two other employees.

Furthermore, we have a board where a couple of students from KI are included.

Photo attributed to: Anny Truong

How did you come to join MB? I have an education as an economist. A consistent thing throughout my career has been meeting on the store floor, exchanging words, and having contact with customers, which has always been fun. In addition to my background, I have liked books since I was very young. The trade itself becomes fun when the product you sell is valuable for oneself. Therefore, MB was an obvious choice for me.

The operations manager, Svetlana, is sitting at the checkout.

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

29

CAMPUS • MEDICINSKA BOKHANDELN

Do you have a favorite book?

We already know that corona has affected many businesses. But

When it comes to books, I like

how has it been for MB?

detective stories. My favorite author is Elizabeth George. These are

The pandemic has hit us very hard

beautiful ”bricks” that you can relax

because students have not been on

with.

campus. Nowadays, KI has lectures digitally. Unfortunately, Harrys böcker

Why is MB’s slogan “By and for

has been hit harder as closure in

students”?

Södertörn University has been stricter than KI. Right now, it looks

To reduce the spread of the virus, we

MB is owned by MF, a student union.

like we are approaching a clearing,

limit the number of people that

Likewise, our customer clientele

and KI intends to open campus in the

simultaneously enter the store. In

mostly consists of students from KI

autumn. But we have been hit hard.

addition, we have a protective shield

and Södertörn University. Moreover,

No students, no income.

glass between me (checkout) and the

our assortment is mainly based on

customer.

the courses used on campus. We

Do you have a strategy to

look at the statistics and see what

overcome the pandemic?

sells the most among the students,

What do you think about the usage of e-books instead of actual

and consequently order. It is this

We have finally set up an online

books?

adaptation for the students that

webshop medicinskabokhandeln.se

distinguishes MB from the bigger

that facilitates sales. The webshop is

There is nothing MB can do about it,

dragons (bookstores).

an additional sales channel where

but I generally do not like illegal

customers can order without being on

downloads. In the end, there is

To make the books more affordable

campus. Also, we have reduced

someone who has worked, written,

for students, we have started to sell

costs and adapted to the

printed, sold the book. A long chain of

second-hand books. Additionally, we

circumstances.

people work hard to produce a book,

mediate free books given to us by

and to download it for free on the

donors.

web undermines these people.

I am a bookworm, and opening a book is something special. Opening a new book, throwing yourself into the action, creating your own thoughts; gives a different feeling. I also like audiobooks when the thoughts fly away; then I am in another world.

What would you like for KI students to know about MB? Our aim at MB is to offer a wide range of books to students. If a product is missing, we can always order it. The waiting time for Swedish and foreign literature is 2-3 days and two weeks, respectively.

30

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

Photo attributed to: Anny Truong

CAMPUS • MEDICINSKA BOKHANDELN

The anatomical images from De humani corporis fabrica.

Unveiling the history of MB HOW MB started by the initiative of the MF board. The task to operate MB was assigned to the then vice-chairman of MF – Ulf Ala-Mutka.

WHY The reason behind starting a student’s bookstore was the market prices of course literature were relatively high in Stockholm. So the purpose of MB was (and still is) to have high availability of course literature with the lowest possible price.

WHEN 23rd of August, 1993, on a Monday, MB opened as a small bookstore in Kårhuset (MF’s student union house). The student’s interest was through the roof; many stood in a long serpentine queue.

AFTERMATH After MB’s opening, other competitors were forced to lower their prices significantly. It was a great win for students!

2008

2012

2021

MB expands to sell in Huddinge as Harrys böcker.

MB moves to the current locale in Berzelius väg 3.

MB is online and sells through the webstore.

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

31

CAMPUS • HUMANS OF KI

After all, these years should be as memorable as possible AUTHOR: MATILDE OVIEDO

Malin Sandell is the Student Counsellor for 6 different programmes at KI - we met her for an interview to get to know the person behind all these emails a bit better.

32

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

CAMPUS • HUMANS OF KI

If you are a student at KI, you most likely had an email exchange with Malin Sandell. Malin is not just the Student Counsellor for 6 different programmes at KI – she is also the first point of contact for students who struggle with stress, harassments, discrimination, mental health/illness or other problems related to your studies.

Malin has been working for about 6 years as student advisor; first at KTH and now for a year at KI. Since her studies in ethnology, Malin has been interested in people and especially students. She says that what draws her to students is “their different stories, cultures and experiences”.

“I think it's always difficult as an international student to come to another country because there's so many small details that I, as a national, take for granted and just know, but as an international you have to learn everything from scratch”.

“I can't imagine what it must be like

students, longer and ‘funner’

Her mission is to be the bridge, the

not to know anyone, in a country I

introduction weeks - and perhaps

smoothing hand between all the

know very little about, staring at a

introducing a physical space that can

different customs and life here at KI.

computer screen in my room alone”.

serve as a hangout place as well as

Her job was never easy but, of

Many students have now turned to

course, it has not been made easier

her for more help. In addition to

“Internationals are a great resource

by the pandemic. Before, students

providing advice on Swedish life,

for research and investigation that KI

could interact with their classmates

Malin has now also taken it upon

is so invested in, so it makes sense

during lectures and seminars and

herself to interact with the students,

to give them attention as well”.

could therefore help each other out;

to have fika or take a walk.

a place for questions and advice.

Illustrative elements made by Mikail Yilmaz

the online format has taken away this

This is where Malin calls for help.

support system, and left many of

She is at her happiest doing these

Because the pandemic has taken a

these students vulnerable to

walks, so it is her favourite part of the

toll on the amount of physical

loneliness. She explained that most

job - but she feels KI could make

actives; she is constantly searching

of her students now complain that

more of an effort. Malin’s current

for ideas and contributions that

they feel alien to Sweden, and feel

project is to make internationals

students can think of to make the

like they don’t live or participate in

more of a priority for the university;

university more inclusive for

society.

with more seminars for incoming

international students.

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33

CAMPUS • BLÅSLAGET

Find musical & dance terms!

Need some help on the way?

See page 56 for the answers!

1. Where does “Blåslagare” hang out?

3. The person that leads an orchestra.

Across 2. What is the smallest instrument in the orchestra?

5. You will probably have to do this quite often with your guitar to not have it sound awful, but it also needs to be done with.

7. Which instrument is the largest and lowest-pitched in the brass family?

8. An action to keep the muscles flexible, strong, and healthy, which is needed to maintain a range of motion in the joints.

6. When a musician plays a note strongly.

9. A fabulous person who designs a dance to be performed on stage.

34

4. If a song is out of your range to sing or play, you can always … it.

10. A classical ballet term meaning “raised”.

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

Created using the Crossword Maker on TheTeachersCorner.net

Down

CAMPUS • BLÅSLAGET

NO STYLE, ONLY HITS! Welcome to Blåslaget AUTHOR: MAYA TOURKAMAN Hello there! Are you also tired of long days that consist of only Zoom lectures which then transition to evenings of Netflix’s rude: "Are you still watching?"? Did you also dream about a vibrant student life that now feels as remote as Narnia? Don’t give up yet! Because now, you actually have the chance to ensure a student life VIP seat for this fall’s semester! How? Simply by joining the Medicinska Föreningen’s student orchestra, Blåslaget, with its associated dance group, Dragplåstret!

So, who are we? Blåslaget consists of approximately 25 musicians (band instruments, wind instruments and singers) and Dragplåstret, which has about 10 dancers. All the musicians and dancers have different

Illustrations attributed to: Blaslaget.se

backgrounds and educations. In other words, everyone is welcome!

We have rehearsals every Tuesday at 18:00 sharp at the Medicinska Föreningen’s aula, always starting with a traditional fika! So if you would like to be part of an active student life in Stockholm with a lot of concerts, festivals, tours and other fun

Group pic – The concert “Värmeslaget” November 2019.

activities, then you should join Find Blåslaget online:

blaslaget

Blåslaget

ordf@blaslaget.se

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

Blåslaget!

35

CAMPUS • STUDENT HEALTH CENTER

36

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

Photo attributed to: www.unsplash.com

A reminder from the

CAMPUS • STUDENT HEALTH CENTER

Student Health Center at KI AUTHOR: FRIDA KOLASA

Sometimes, little to nothing can feel like a lot - especially during uncertain times.

The KI Student Health Center is here to help when things get too much.

Hello! How are you in these peculiar times? Are you finding

About the Student Health Center

a good balance between spending time online, looking at the screen, and the rest of life? Perhaps it's a little bit

We offer assessment, advice and supportive counselling

simplified, but we often speak to students about these

sessions when you experience study-related difficulties or

topics. Most of us know what to do when we have a lot of

other problems that may impede your studies in any way.

studies to get through; we need to eat healthy, take

Common reasons for contacting us are stress,

pauses, make sure we move our bodies, make time for

performance-anxiety, or feeling low.

social interaction, and, of course, sleep well.

Currently we only offer online video-sessions. To make an But why is it so hard to achieve?

appointment you can either phone us or make a booking in our web-based booking system. Click on the link below for

Sometimes the simple, small things are the most difficult to

easy access: https://utbildning.ki.se/studenthalsan

embrace. When we are stressed, feel low, and are not allowed to see friends and family that we need in order to

We also regularly offer seminars on various topics that you

keep well, cognitive abilities can decrease. Decisions are

may want to take part in - previous topics have ranged

more difficult to make, routines are harder to keep up with,

from Stress Handling to Public speaking anxiety. Watch the

and our patience wanes. At the Student Health Centre, we

space on our website for upcoming seminars!

meet many students that struggle with these problems.

Sometimes it can be helpful to get some support around these issues; it seems so simple but can actually be quite tricky. We are here to support you; do get in touch to discuss any difficulties you might be experiencing.

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37

CAMPUS • SiF

Research for students –

Say hello to SiF Are you a research-lover? Do you want to get into research but don't know how?

Studenter i Forskning (SiF) might have the answers that you are looking for!

What is SiF? SiF stands for Studenter i Forskning which is Swedish for Students in Research. We are a student-run organization that holds events like journal clubs and research seminars, as well as provides valuable information to students that want to pursue research at Karolinska Institutet.

Board left to right: CAROLINE SCHAGERHOLM - President, LINA ABDEL-HALIM - Vice President, CHRISTINA TSAGKOGIANNI - Events Manager, IIDA TYNKKYNEN - Recruitment Manager, LINDA KOGERMAN - Event Manager, MARIA - NEFELI CHRISTAKOPOULOU - PR Manager, JENNY SUL Event Manager, DIDAR FARES - Event Manager, ALI RASSOLIE - PR Manager, LINA CAO ZHANG (not in picture) - Recruitment Manager

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CAMPUS • SiF

Q & A with the SiF board 1. How did your journey in research start?

DIDAR: I actually have not started my academic research journey yet! I only recently started gaining an interest in it when I noticed how intriguing research is.

2. What advice would you give to

MARIA - NEFELI: In the biomedical

JENNY: When I was in high school I

someone that wants to get into

programme, all lecturers are also

started volunteering at a lab in

research but doesn't know where

conducting research and they always

molecular biology and genetics at a

to start?

talk briefly about their work in the

local university. I learned the ropes

beginning or end of the lecture. If you

around the different lab techniques

DIDAR: Find out what you think is

find their research topic interesting,

and eventually got to work on my

interesting, take a few steps in that

make sure to approach them and

own project, which I subsequently

direction and see if you like it. (You

discuss their research, laboratory

won a scholarship for at a science

can find a list of professors who is

techniques they use in their lab, and

competition for high school students.

interested in hosting students at

ongoing projects that you could

studenteriforskning.se)

potentially join.

bachelor studies at Karolinska

JENNY: If you keep an open mind

ALI: I would definitely start by

Institutet, I started working in a

and you’re in it for the experience

scouring the internet – more

laboratory part-time. I greatly enjoyed

and to learn, anything is possible. I

specifically KI sites and SiF’s website

learning new techniques while

would start with reaching out to as

– for interesting research groups.

applying my knowledge from my

many labs of your interest as you

After finding one, we enter the stage

bachelor courses, so I have

can; talk to supervisors and staff at

of spamming and religiously

continued doing research in parallel

the lab and go from there. Research

attempting to come in contact with

to my studies to this day.

requires a lot of patience so I’d give it

the PIs or researchers at the lab,

time to figure out your ultimate life’s

asking for a job!

MARIA - NEFELI: During my

ALI: In my first semester I came in

calling.

contact with a bunch of students

CAROLINE: investigate your interest

researchers, in the semesters above.

and ask around! Maybe you have an

I landed my first research assistant

interesting seminar leader, know

job through them .

someone who does research or similar? There are so many ways to

CAROLINE: I got my first research

get into research and the most

position with one of my lecturers in

important advice I can give is to

my first semester of medical school. I

show your interest and to be honest

had been in contact with her due to

about your background and what you

an international exchange and just

are capable of in both terms of time

asked her if she wanted to take in a

and skillset.

student – and she did!

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39

CAMPUS • SiF 3. What is something you wished

JENNY: That it’s not necessarily

ALI: Be willing to change labs early!

you knew before getting into

about the results. As I said, research

Evaluate carefully if the current

research?

requires a lot of patience so it’s

research group will benefit you in

mostly about the journey and the

your own development.

DIDAR: What I have noticed a lot of

process.

people mention is that professors

40

CAROLINE: Think about what type

choose their research path for a

MARIA - NEFELI: That this is a

of research you want to do.

reason, so talking about their work is

learning process and things won’t

Research is so different, from

fun for them. This is why, if you are

always go as planned. You should

working in wet labs, with patient

interested in doing what they do, you

see every mistake and failed

registries, computer softwares and

should not be afraid of inviting

experiment as an opportunity to learn

being in the clinic having patient

Professors for a cup of coffee to talk

more and improve yourself. Also,

meetings. Not all needs to suit

about their work.

always remember that many great

everyone and it can be a deal

discoveries happened by mistake!

breaker!

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CAMPUS • SiF

4. What was your favorite event

5. What has being part of SiF

that SiF organised and why?

taught you?

DIDAR: The “How To Research

DIDAR: Researchers can be fun

Lecture” for sure! Gave me

people too. :)

everything I needed to know about starting my research journey, as well

JENNY: That research students

as a few resources.

aren’t antisocial mythical creatures but actually are fun with active social

JENNY: The different webinars we’ve

lives.

organized so far. I find it interesting to learn about the different fields of

MARIA - NEFELI: That researchers

research and what the latest

are so fun that they have created a

discoveries are.

parody of the Nobel prizes called the Ig Nobel prizes, which are awarded

MARIA - NEFELI: The psychedelic

every year for achievements that

research webinar was a great event

"first make people laugh, and then

where top researchers in the field,

make them think".

both from Sweden and abroad, spoke about this rapidly advancing

CAROLINE: That there are so many

field of research.

researchers who want to work and engage with us students!

CAROLINE: Research colloquium, a very nice gathering in Gamla Stan with dinner and discussions of a research topic from different perspectives.

Where to find SiF:

https://studenteriforskning.se

sifstockholm

Studenter i Forskning Stockholm

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41

CAMPUS • OMBUDSPERSON

Medicinska Föreningen’s ombudspersons AUTHORS: NAZIRA HAMMOUD SHAHWAN & NINNA OOM

How can you help students and

What’s a typical case for you as

For how long have you as

doctoral students?

ombudspersons?

ombudspersons been around?

We can, for example, help them

Well, our job varies a lot and the

KI initiated the role of the

understand their rights and

cases that we work with are quite

ombudspersons in 2003, because

obligations, be a neutral and

different from each other. But when it

they wanted the students to have an

independent instance between them

comes to student matters, we often

independent person/persons outside

and KI in a possible conflict, and

give support to students that have an

of KI to turn to if something

investigate whether KI follows the

upcoming claim with the disciplinary

happened during their studies at KI,

rules in handling their case.

board. We also counsel students that

someone employed by the student

However, we do not take sides or

feel that they have been mistreated

union for example. I, Nazira, have

decide on a matter.

by their teachers or peers and others

worked as an ombudsperson at KI

who, for example, want to know how

for five years so I’ve seen quite a lot

When can students and doctoral

to have a grade reviewed. When it

during my time here. Everything from

students contact you?

comes to doctoral students, the

more simple cases regarding

cases are usually connected to their

misleading and plagiarism to more

Always! No question is too big or too

work environment and employment.

difficult cases involving sexual

small and we do our best to get back

We can help them with the process

harrasments during an internship

as soon as possible. If we are not the

of changing a supervisor or informing

(VFU) etc. And I, Ninna, only started

right people to answer a question, we

them about their rights concerning

working last summer. It’s a really fun

refer the student to someone who is.

prolongation of their contract of

and interesting job, but I still have

Just remember — our door is always

employment.

much to learn!

open!

42

medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

Illustrative elements made by Mikail Yilmaz

Did you know that Medicinska Föreningen (MF) has two ombudspersons that can help students and doctoral students with matters related to their studies? Ninna and Nazira are there for all students at KI, regardless of membership in the union, and – it should go without mentioning – they work under complete confidentiality.

CAMPUS • OMBUDSPERSON

The ombudspersons’ area of jurisdiction used to be divided in two — one for students and one for doctoral students. However, we are now striving towards gradually merging our roles. This means that the two of us can handle cases with both students and doctoral students.

A big pro with this is that we are more available to everyone – if one of us can’t help at the time, the other one probably can. Furthermore, we Photo attributed to: Daniella Nordman

are able to discuss cases with each other if we find it necessary and, in a particularly tricky case, we can show support in numbers.

How can students and doctoral students reach you?

The easiest way is to fill out a form on MF’s website. On the form, the student can tell us a bit about their problem after which we contact them.

You can find the form here:

Usually, we arrange a meeting with

https://medicinskaforeningen.se/en/student-rights/ombudspersons/

the student to ensure that we understand every aspect of the

The ombudspersons visiting addresses are:

problem and discuss how we can be

MF Solna, Nobels väg 10 and MF Flemingsberg, Alfred Nobels Allé 8.

of help.

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43

CULTURE • COLORS OF SPRING

1ST 44 PLACE: MORGAN SÖDERSTRÖM

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CULTURE • COLORS OF SPRING

COLORS OF SPRING Earlier this spring, we had a photo competition themed “Colours of Spring” on the Medicor instagram @medicor.mag. We asked our followers for their favourites, and here are the results!

2ND PLACE: ADAMANTIA CHASSIOTI

Do you also want your picture shown here? Keep an eye out for future photo competitions at Medicor's social media!

3RD PLACE: IIDA TYNKKYNEN

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45

CULTURE • PROJECT WISDOM

1

2 3

4 5

6

Your summer reading list – book recommendations from Project Wisdom AUTHORS: ANASTASIJA ZUBOVA & AYU TAMAKI

Project Wisdom is a student-led book club that curates a reading list every semester and gathers KI students to read and discuss popular science literature. A wide array of books is chosen to highlight different messages and to challenge the readers’ critical thinking. We would like to present you Project Wisdom’s selection of books for the spring semester of 2021.

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CULTURE • PROJECT WISDOM

1. Blindness

by JOSE SARAMAGO

2. How to Argue with a Racist: What Our Genes Do (and Don't) Say about Human Difference

Blindness is a novel about a contagion that causes

by ADAM RUTHERFORD

blindness and the chaos that ensues, putting forth the idea of the public uniting to overcome a terrible disease. We

This book was chosen to shed light on the racism that

chose this book because it reflects current social

persists in society today. Racist pseudoscience has

circumstances amidst the Covid-19 pandemic. This book –

become so commonplace that it can be hard to distinguish

first published more than two decades ago – gives us a

but its toxic effects on society are evident. Stereotypes and

chance to compare our lives today to fictional ones,

myths not supported by the modern study of human

highlighting the similarities and differences between the

genetics are frequently propagated. We believe that racism

real world and the author’s imagination. As it is hard to face

is not an issue to shy away from, but one we must face

the impacts of Covid-19 alone, we hope that this book will

together to understand its underlying mechanisms. We

be a fantastic opportunity to come together to contemplate

hope that readers are challenged to face how mis-

our lives critically and subjectively during this pandemic.

information may be skewing their worldview and critical thinking.

3. The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History

4. Astrophysics for People in a Hurry

by NEIL DEGRASSE TYSON

by ELIZABETH KOLBERT Astrophysics is a topic that seemingly has little to no The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History highlights one of

relation to the medical field. However, there has been a

the most important issues that the world faces today –

great demand for books that cover a broader scope of the

environmental and ecological destruction. This book

sciences, and so, to match this demand, one of the most

combines research from multiple disciplines and evaluates

critically acclaimed popular science books on astrophysics

the myriad of problems associated with human activity and

was chosen. Renowned worldwide as an educator and

provides opportunities for readers to think about what they

celebrity, Tyson gives us a perspective into his mind by

can do to salvage the Earth's natural environment. Kolbert

attempting to describe the infiniteness of the universe.

argues that we are the catalysts of the sixth extinction, and

Written to be read while waiting for your morning coffee

studying how we have altered and damaged the Earth

brews, or during your wait for the bus to arrive, we hope

allows us to fix our mistakes and avoid repeating them. We

that this book will not only provide useful knowledge but

hope that readers can rethink the fundamental question of

also bring a momentary escape from the real world and

what it means to be human and what we can give back to

allow readers to wander into the magic of the universe.

the Earth.

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47

CULTURE • PROJECT WISDOM

5. Factfulness: Ten Reasons We're Wrong About the World – and Why Things Are Better Than You Think

6. The Blind Watchmaker: Why the Evidence of Evolution Reveals a Universe Without Design

by HANS ROSLING

by RICHARD DAWKINS

Honoring the late Professor Rosling from Karolinska

Evolution, evolution, evolution... Say it how many times

Institutet, this worldwide best-selling book highlights the

you want but do you really know what it is? In the

lack of knowledge in public health of average people. Most

eighteenth century, theologian William Paley developed a

know surprisingly little about the world. When asked simple

famous metaphor for creationism: that of the skilled

questions about global trends, such as why the world's

watchmaker. If natural selection can be said to play the

population is increasing or how many live in poverty, we

role of a watchmaker in nature, then it is a blind one—

frequently get the answers wrong. So wrong, in fact, that a

working without foresight or purpose. In an eloquent

chimpanzee choosing answers at random can consistently

manner, Dawkins illustrates the beauty behind evolution

out-perform journalists, Nobel laureates, and investment

that allows simple organisms to slowly change over time to

bankers. Inspiring and revelatory, Factfulness was chosen

create a world of enormous complexity and diversity. This

as an urgent and essential book for all current and future

book challenges the readers to think critically of evolution

scientists. We hope that this book will help students gain a

and appreciate the elegant scientific proofs that went into

better and more realistic understanding of the world.

evaluating problems of evolution.

You can join us at the beginning of every semester, and it is completely free! We also have a monthly newsletter that is always open for any submissions. Contact us! We are always open for any questions, suggestions and feedback.

projectwisdomki

projectwisdomki@outlook.com

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CULTURE • QUEEROLINSKA

Can you solve the

Queerolinska word search?

BY: LUKAS LEHTONEN Every word can be read…

• from left to right • from top to bottom • diagonally from bottom left to top right • diagonally from top left to bottom right •

Asexual BDSM Bisexual Cisgender Demisexual Drag Expression Gay Genderqueer Heterosexual Homosexual Identity Intersectionality Intersex Lesbian Nonbinary Oritentation Pansexual Pride Pronouns Queer Rainbow Spectrum Straight Transgender Trans man Trans woman

Definitions for the hidden words (and more!) can be found at https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/educated/glossary You can reach out to us at queerolinska@medicinskaforeningen.se to hear more about our association and what we do at KI!

Can you manage to find all the words? See page 56 for the answers!

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49

CULTURE • COOKING AT KI

Cooking at KI RECIPE BY: MAGNUS NYKVIST

Cooking at KI is an event planned by Global Friends whose aim is to promote different cultures by inviting international students to share recipes from their home country. Just like any other cooking show, you can join the currently digital event from the comfort of your home and follow the steps demonstrated by the chef to cook and enjoy the international dish of the day.

PENNE ALLA VODKA ● 500 g penne of good quality ● 2-3 garlic cloves, minced and then pureed with the back of a knife or grated with a microplane ● 2 shallots, finely diced ● 2 dl cream ● 3-4 tablespoons vodka ● 1 can of whole peeled tomatoes, pureed and sieved to remove seeds (preferably San Marzano tomatoes) ● 5-6 Calabrian chilies, minced (can be substituted with 1-2 teaspoons of chili flakes) ● 1 stem of basil ● 1-2 sardine fillets ● 1 dl pecorino, finely grated and sieved ● 2-3 tablespoons olive oil ● 1 cup reserved pasta water to adjust consistency ● salt to taste

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CULTURE • COOKING AT KI

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Finely chop the shallots

3. Add a few tablespoons of

5. Once the pasta is 1-2

and the Calabrian chilies (if

olive oil to the pan and over

minutes shy of al dente, drain

used).

medium heat cook the onions

and transfer to the sauce. Toss

until they begin to soften.

to combine.

grind to a paste using the back

Add the basil stem, garlic

Let the sauce and the pasta

of your knife or grate using a

paste, Calabrian chilis (or chili

mingle with each other for a

microplane.

flakes) and sardine fillets.

couple of minutes while the

Cook until fragrant and the

pasta finishes cooking.

Finely chop the garlic and

Grate your pecorino on the

sardines have melted

finest setting on your cheese

completely.

grater. Push through a sieve to

Adjust the consistency of your dish with the reserved pasta

create an intense pecorino

4. Add the vodka and reduce

powder.

until most of it has evaporated.

water if needed.

6. Plate up (preferably on Puree tomatoes by hand in a

Then add the pureed

preheated plates) and enjoy

bowl. Push through a sieve to

tomatoes. Bring up to a boil

with pecorino on top.

remove seeds (this step is

then immediately turn down

optional but keep in mind that

the heat and let it reduce until

tomato seeds can be bitter).

the sauce is thicker than a regular tomato sauce.

2. Get a pot of salted water going on the stove and a wide-

Add the cream, bring back up

bottomed pan next to it to cook

to a boil then turn down the

the sauce in.

heat once again and let simmer while you are cooking the pasta.

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51

CULTURE • THE DICE METHOD

The Dice Method Photo attributed to: www.CGPGrey.com

AUTHOR: LAURA VOLLE Are you super busy and have approximately a million things to do? Don’t know where to start between, say, staring at your hastily scribbled notes for the umpteenth time, reading your assigned course literature or actually answering those seminar questions you’ll be quizzed on tomorrow?

Boy, do I have the technique for you!

It’s coined (very imaginatively) The Dice Method, and it consists of rolling a six-sided die to determine your next course of action.

Sounds simple? That’s because it is!

This might be helpful, especially if

It cuts down on the brainpower you

you’re feeling stuck, because:

have to spend on deciding what to

You just identify five things you want

study beyond identifying five general

to/really should/need to do and

It forces you to split up what you

categories. If you’re already tired

assign them numbers. “But a six

want to do into five small categories

from slogging through endless

sided die has six (6) sides! Why only

– a good starting point for figuring out

lectures, this is one less mental

five?”, one might ask. That’s because

what exactly you have to do and

weight your poor head has to

number six is going to be your lucky

what’s most important to you!

shoulder.

It can make routine procedures like

Now, if we’re thinking big here, the

Here’s an example of what that

studying feel new and refreshing to

applications for this ‘technique’ are

might look like:

you! You never know what you’re

limitless. It’s useful for any situation

going to get in which order and that

where you can figure out your top 5

element of surprise can shake a tired

priorities and then address them in a

brain out of its stupor (not literally).

random order.

It forces you to take breaks in semi-

You’ve got an essay due in a week,

regular intervals. At any given point

dishes, that one pesky phone call,

(unless there’s something wrong with

your daily workout and sooo much

your die) you have a 1/6 chance to

studying to be done and have spent

get that sweet, sweet timeout – this

the last two hours aimlessly reading

is pretty reasonable, and when you

through Medicor articles? No more of

do roll that six, you know you

that! (Until you roll a six, and then it’s

deserve it!

right back to the articles for a bit)

spot – a break!

1. Read the course book 2. Go through notes 3. Rewatch recorded lecture 4. Explain 1 topic to friend 5. Try a past exam 6. BREAK :)

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CULTURE • THE DICE METHOD

And you can go even further – there are so many decisions we make throughout the day we spend thoughts, spoons, and time on, but that are ultimately meaningless.

Picking what tea you’ll have for breakfast! Deciding on an ice cream flavour at that new shop! The hoodie you’ll wear to obscure your bad hair

Of course, this method isn’t for

And lastly, the dice are not in control

day, general body shape, and other

everyone. It’s important to remember

– you are. If you haven’t seen a

clothing!

that if you already know exactly what

single six for hours, take a break! If

you want to do, this is more likely to

you keep doing the same thing again

All of these are decisions that some

frustrate you than help.

and again, decide where you want to

people make happily, some people

Consequential decisions should be

draw the line and pick something

do not care about – and some people

made with careful consideration –

else! If there’s something on your list

may agonize over for twenty minutes

would you toss a coin to decide what

you really can’t bring yourself to do,

before deciding that it’s easier to stay

degree you’ll take? Perhaps, but also

take it off – or change the method!

in bed (that’s me).

maybe don’t do that!

I am one of those people that really

Maybe address the urgent stuff

studies, try out a new dish on the

struggle with making small decisions,

before you do anything else. If

menu, or spice up your house

and sometimes it’s just so much

something is due in the next half

cleaning – why not give the ol’ dice a

easier not to make them. In the

hour, it might be a good idea to

roll?

grand scheme of things, no one

prioritize that over changing your

gives a damn about what teacup I

bedsheets. But often, there simply is

slurp my English Breakfast out of –

no obviously more important issue/

including me – and yet having to pick

technique, and then the dice method

one may immobilize me for the rest

can come in handy.

However, if you want to mix up your

of the morning.

I’m a nerd and have several full dice sets laying around at home, so where a D6 isn’t enough, I may toss a D12 or a D20 instead (for the unaware: the number after the “D” denotes how many sides a given die has.) For numbers not covered by my beloved dice, I consult random.org – possibly my favourite website in the world.

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CULTURE • MOVIE & SERIES RECOMMENDATIONS

MOVIE & SERIES RECOMMENDATIONS

AUTHORS: ANDREA WESTMAN, MADELINE FALCOTET, SUMEDHA JASSAL

With the pandemic going on for more than a year now, our visits to movie theaters for entertainment purposes has declined dramatically. With that, the shift to over-the-top (OTT) platforms such as Netflix and HBO has seen an overwhelmingly positive response. Here are a few movie and series recommendations from around the world to binge watch if you haven't already!

AMERICA New Girl

Grey’s Anatomy

Marriage Story

Follows the life of Jess who, after a

Set at a hospital in Seattle,

Examines the divorce of Charlie and

breakup, moves into an apartment

Washington and is centered around

Nicole and their struggle of trying to

shared with three guys. Things are a

the character Mereidith Grey. Over

stay civil through the grueling

little rough at first but as time goes

the course of the series, Meredith

process. Things become complicated

on, they all become close friends and

goes from resident to successful

when Nicole moves from their New

some even share the occasional

surgeon all while grappling with

York home back to California, taking

romance. It's fun and lighthearted

trauma from her past and present.

their son with her. To say the least,

and definitely worth the watch.

The show is action packed with

lawyers get involved and it isn’t

plenty of tragedy and relationship

pretty.

drama.

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CULTURE • MOVIE & SERIES RECOMMENDATIONS

FRANCE Call My Agent

Lupin

The Intouchables

It sheds light on a job that’s different

The main actor, Omar Sy, makes you

It’s an amazing movie, the story is

from other TV shows; illustrating the

glued to the story instantly. The story

passionate, the actors fantastic. It’s

backstage stories of actors and

is nice, fresh, and very entertaining.

sad and very happy at the same

actresses that one does not think

Since it is adapted from a novel, it is

time, it’s very heartwarming. The

about naturally. Additionally, the cast

fun to see a good TV adaptation.

story also touches upon issues in

includes very famous French actors

Also, it’s very nice to discover the

France and this is quite interesting as

which further makes the show cool.

backstage of the Louvres during the

well.

first few episodes.

INDIA Ajeeb Dastaans

Bombay Begums

Delhi Crime

This show comprises 4 short stories

This drama film rightly sheds light on

Based on the infamous real-life Delhi

which convey the stories of 5 women

the plight faced by 5 women in

gang rape of 2012, this series fights

in India. It discusses poignant topics

modern, working day, urban India. As

against the stereotypes on corruption

such as the prevailing patriarchal

the film progresses, it explores the

associated with the Indian police

society, the caste system, and

layers of frustration and anger felt by

force. It navigates through the

homophobia whilst also exploring

women after being subjected to male

investigation of the rape case which

prejudice, jealousy, and unjust

suppression in the chauvinistic

brought justice to the victim and their

entitlement. This anthology casts

society. It is an appropriate

family. It is a gripping drama which

very famous Indian actors and leaves

representation of how the #MeToo

provides a sense of emotions

the viewer in a pensive state of mind.

movement emerged in India and its

ranging from fear to pain.

impact.

SWEDEN Kalifat

Bonusfamiljen

This series discusses the impact of

This series explores the complexities

radicalisation in Sweden by drawing

associated with modern day families.

the connection between ISIS based

It puts a humorous spin to realistic

in Raqqa and Swedish immigration. It

displays on how relationship

also puts into perspective how

dynamics and people change with

people in their teenage years may

time.

get brainwashed easily, unable to Icons attributed to: www.freepik.com

distinguish between right and wrong and end up putting themselves, their families, and nations in danger.

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Blåslaget - find musical and dance terms! (page 34)

Queerolinska - word search (page 49)

Can you find all the hidden band-aids in the magazine?

How many can you find and on which pages do they hide?

The first people to find them all will get a special prize!

Email or text your answers to us at Medicor latest 31th of August. Winners will be announced on our socials.

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medicor • 2021 | ISSUE 1

See our Linktree by clicking or scanning the QR-code!

Medicor Talks

Do you want to be part of our team?

Or a contributor to the magazine?

Join us for the next magazine issue in the autumn!

What have the people behind Medicor been doing during the pandemic?

INIKA PRASAD

SUMEDHA JASSAL

VINCIANE ALLICAR

REBECKA KLINGBERG

CHANG WEI-TSE

Editor-in-Chief

Assocate Editor

Assocate Editor

Web Editor, Section Editor

Section Editor

My pandemic activities have been mostly cooking new dishes and learning how to code they’re both really fun!

I have been baking very regularly during the pandemic. I have baked all kinds of cakes and cupcakes.

Having lectures online made me realise how important it is to change environment in order to have a clearer head space. So I started scouting the best coffee shops to work in and get that caffeine boost.

I have been riding my bike to get to school instead of taking the bus and discovered that you can get to all of Stockholm by bike!

During the pandemic, I have been playing an increasing amount of chess to strengthen my memory, enhance complex pattern recognition and improve problem-solving skills.

NADINE GELMAR

TOM ENRIKO KELT

ANNY TRUONG

CHARMAYNE LOW

NASSAI HERREN

Section Editor

Section Editor

Magazine Designer

Events Manager

Social Media Manager

During the pandemic I have been re-watching a lot of my favourite TV shows. I guess it is a comfort thing - everything is familiar and predictable.

I started exercising a lot, mostly callisthenics because I could do them at home alone. I found some exercise apps :)

I have been making a lot of risotto recently, started practicing more piano and just spent more time on my creative hobbies!

I picked up videography and video editing because I want to record down precious moments of my life, especially my time in Stockholm!

Since I am not someone who functions super well on my own, I am pretty sure I would’ve done more without COVID, I have been learning to bike though!

Medicor MF

MedicorMF

https://medicor.nu

medicor_mag

Medicor MF Magazine

medicor@medicinskaforeningen.se

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