bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A rare case of extensive leptomeningitis in neurosarcoidosis
Authors: Verma Rajesh , Praharaj Heramba Narayan
Published: October 2012

Sarcoidosis is a systemic disease characterised by non-caseating granulomas affecting mainly the lung and lymphatics. Literature reveals that 5% of the patients of sarcoidosis have involvement of the nervous system. Various neurological complications of sarcoidosis commonly reported are cranial nerve palsies, aseptic meningitis, myelopathy and intracranial masses. We report unusual case of neurosarcoidosis who presented with combination of right-sided vision loss and complete ophthalmoplegia with extensive leptomeningitis. This patient was suffering from resistant diabetes which leads to therapeutic problems.
DROWNING PREVENTION PROGRAMME IN NORTHERN IRAN—A CLOSER LOOK AT THE PROBLEM
Authors: Davoudi- kiakalayeh A , Mohammadi R , Yousefzade-chabok S
Published: October 2012

Background

Drowning has not been well recognised as a public health problem in many developing countries including Iran.

Aims

This work outlines the context of the programme; describes its design and implementation; and reviews key findings that emerged from the evaluation drowning prevention programme in northern Iran.

Methods

This article is complied based on cross-sectional study and two intervention study. Data for studies were derived from Death Registry System, Forensic Medicine, Weekly Report and household surveys. This project were located in border of Caspian Sea in northern Iran. Age group, gender, place and date of occurrence, external causes were assessed. Evaluation of the drowning prevention programme in the form of a quasiexperimental study and employed (1) pre and post interventional observations with a comparison community in a water recreational area of the Caspian Sea in northern Iran and (2) pre and post interventional observations without a comparison community in a rural area near the Caspian Sea coastline.

Results

The risk of fatality resulting from drowning was observed to be greater during the preimplementation period than throughout the implementation period (OR=1.65). The drowning prevalence in rural areas of the Caspian Sea coastline as compared to a WHO standardised population demonstrated a continuous decrease in the age specific drowning rate among the oldest victims with a gradual decline during implementation.

Significance

This effort suggests that the drowning prevention programme based on community based health promotion could help to both reduce the burden of drowning fatality and its related healthcare expenditure.
LEARNING FROM 20 YEAR TRENDS IN UNINTENTIONAL CHILD INJURY MORTALITY
Authors: Mytton J , Towner E , Powell J , Pilkington P , Gray S
Published: October 2012

Background

The relative significance of child injury as a cause of preventable death has increased as the ability to control infectious diseases has improved. Unintentional child injuries are now a major global cause of death and disability with the greatest burden falling on those who are most disadvantaged.

Aim/Objectives/Purpose

A systematic review of long term trends in child injury mortality was conducted to review progress and consider the implications for policy, practice and research.

Methods

We systematically collated and quality appraised data from publications and documents reporting unintentional child injury mortality, over periods of 20 years or more. A critical narrative synthesis explored trends by injury type and by country income group, and reported disparities in injury occurrence by age, sex, ethnicity and socio-economic group.

Results/Outcome

Thirty one studies meeting the inclusion criteria were identified of which 30 were included in the narrative synthesis. Only six were from middle income countries and none were from low income countries. An overall trend in falling child injury mortality masked rising road traffic injury deaths, evidence of increasing vulnerability of adolescents and widening disparities within countries when analysed by ethnic group and socioeconomic status.

Significance/Contribution to the Field

We need to adapt our knowledge of effective interventions to reduce child injury mortality for low income countries, particularly where rapid economic and social change may be increasing exposure to injury risks. Within countries, advocacy and interventions to reduce disparities in injury mortality by age, ethnicity and socioeconomic status should be prioritised.
SUCCESSFUL ROAD SAFETY INITIATIVES IN DUBAI
Authors: Adai M Bin , Banna H Al
Published: October 2012

Background

Dubai is one of the fastest growing cities in the world and aims to provide world class services in all sectors. The economy boom, the large increase in population and the ease of car ownership has had a direct effect on the number of traffic accidents.

Objectives

The Roads and Transport Authority was born in 2006 with the vision of ‘safe and smooth transport for all’ is responsible for designing, constructing, maintenance of road infrastructure, safety improvement programmes. We would like to take this opportunity to shed light on the on-going and future road safety initiatives and schemes that helped to reduce road fatalities on Dubai roads.

Methods

The introduction of various traffic safety improvement projects and schemes such as a Road Safety Strategy, Pedestrian Safety and Mobility Action Plan, Road Safety Auditing, Accident Blackspots programmes, Road side improvement programmes, Work Zone improvement programmes, Speed Management programmes, Traffic Awareness Programmes, Zone wise auditing programmes, Traffic calming measures in residential and school zones and also adopting new standards and manuals which are based on best international practices.

Results

The above systematic approach, successful road safety programmes and initiatives have contributed to reducing the rate of fatalities in Dubai from 21.9 fatality/100 k population in 2006–6.7 fatality/100 k population in 2011.

Significance

The continuous and systematic initiatives above are certainly leading the way in the field of Traffic Safety and have managed to exceed all expectations in Dubai, the region and the world as far as traffic safety improvements are concerned.
OPTIMISING SEAT LENGTH DESIGN TO MINIMISE EXTRA PASSENGERS ON ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLES
Authors: Jennissen C , Marsico J , Steffen J , Schnell T , McGehee D , Denning G
Published: October 2012

Background

The presence of extra riders increases the likelihood of an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) crash and injury. However, many ATVs have seats long enough to accommodate passengers.

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

To determine if ATV seats could be redesigned to limit use to only one rider.

Methods

A convenience sampling of 14 ATV models were measured and compared, and seat dimension requirements were analysed at a 26 degree incline/decline.

Results/Outcomes

Seat lengths varied from 22–35 inches. The seat backs ended fairly consistently at 38–45 inches away from the handlebar attachment. Most of the seat length differences were accountable by the distance from the handlebar attachment to the front of the seat, which varied from 9–19 inches. The incline/decline study revealed that when going downhill, a rider needs to fully extend their arms and move their bottom back to the seat edge in order to move their centre of gravity behind the front tires and avoid a front rollover. When going uphill, a forward lean is sufficient to keep the operator's centre of gravity ahead of the rear tires and prevent a backward rollover.

Significance/contribution to the field

Since a rider can adequately change their centre of gravity on an uphill incline without shifting their bottom forward, the seat is not required to be as close to the handles as many manufacturers design. We suggest that a shorter seat starting further from the handlebar is the preferred ATV seat design. This should discourage multiple passenger use by reducing the space available for additional riders.
TRAMPOLINE INJURY PREVENTION – CAN ‘FALL-OFF’ AND ‘FALL-ONTO’ INJURIES BE ELIMINATED WITH GOOD PRODUCT DESIGN?
Authors: Eager D , Chapman C
Published: October 2012

Background

Injuries from trampoline related accidents place a heavy burden on society directly through suffering among children and adolescents and indirectly via the costs associated with hospital admissions and emergency department presentations. In Australia, trampoline injuries represent approximately 25% of all childhood play equipment related injuries. Of these injuries the ‘fall-off’ trampoline (25%) and ‘fall-onto’ the trampoline (60-80%) represent the most frequent and serious injuries.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to verify whether good engineering design leads to a reduction in ‘fall-off’ and ‘fall-onto’ trampoline injuries.

Methods

A survey of trampoline injuries was undertaken by contacting users of trampolines where the trampolines had been specifically designed to eliminate ‘fall-off’ and ‘fall-onto’ injuries.

Results

The results from 3817 users of trampolines that had been engineered to eliminate ‘fall-off’ and ‘fall-onto’ injuries were compared with published ‘traditional’ trampoline injury data. A significantly lower proportion of injuries were noted from trampolines that had been engineered with soft-edges and effective enclosures for both ‘fall-off’ and ‘fall-onto’.

Significance

This research confirms that with appropriate engineering design interventions both the frequency and severity of trampoline injuries can be significantly reduced.
TOWARDS SAFER ROADS IN PUTRAJAYA THROUGH COMMUNITY BASED PROGRAMME
Authors: Ghani Y , Md Junoh AR , Yussof A
Published: October 2012

Background

Road safety is an alarming issue in Malaysia with a new record high of 6877 deaths in 2011. The nation lost an estimated 2.65% of its annual Gross Domestic Product due to road crashes. Even at the nation's administrative capital Putrajaya, with a population of 90 000, 11 deaths were recorded in 2010.

Objectives

In 2011, the Putrajaya's administration embarked on a ‘Safe City Concept’ with emphasis on Community Based Programme (CBP) for road safety. The CBP was aimed at achieving higher compliance of seatbelt and helmet wearing.

Methods

Precinct 8 in Putrajaya was chosen as a locality for case study while Precinct 16 was chosen as a control location. A 6-month intervention programmes involving social marketing campaigns, education, and enforcement activities were carried out. In contrast, no intervention was held in Precinct 16. Observation study was carried out to determine the helmet and seatbelt compliance, whereas survey was used to determine the level of awareness and behaviour change. Children's understanding on road safety was measured through an indoor game calledDeCare Xploration.

Results

The CBP is capable of delivering positive results with greater compliance for both helmet and seatbelt wearing. The seatbelt compliance increased from 42% to 58% while the helmet compliance was also up from 70% to 85%.

Significance to the Field

The study indicates that a combination of education, social marketing campaign and enforcement are effective in achieving safer roads. This study can be replicated in other localities.
TRANSLATING INJURY PREVENTION RESEARCH: A RESOURCE FOR STATE POLICY MAKERS
Authors: Frattaroli S , Pollack K , Samuels A , Vernick J , Gielen A
Published: October 2012

Background

Evidence to inform decisions about injury-related policies exists; however, such information is not readily accessible to policy makers.

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

To develop and disseminate a tool for state policy makers that summarises the evidence on key injury issues affecting the state. To survey policy makers about the utility of the product.

Methods

We documented the development of the tool and tracked our dissemination efforts. We fielded a nine question electronic survey of the 188 Maryland state legislators.

Results/Outcomes

We developed Preventing Injuries in Maryland: A Resource for State Policy Makers (details will be provided about the development process and the product) and disseminated hard copies and an electronic link to policy makers, advocates, and the media. Twenty-seven percent of policymakers responded to our survey; 39% of those reported they knew about the Resource and 35% reported they used it while the legislature was in session. Respondents reported most often using information in the Resource related to alcohol and injury, and distracted driving. Respondents also provided suggestions for future dissemination (eg, more intensive dissemination efforts that include meetings early in the session with legislators, earlier distribution) and we incorporated those suggestions into our dissemination strategy for later editions of the Resource.

Significance/Contribution to the Field

The Resource offers a format for translating injury research to meet the needs of policy makers. As our field looks for ways to assure that evidence is a part of decision-making, the Resource offers a viable model for accomplishing that goal.
A CASE-CONTROL STUDY OF DOG BITE RISK FACTORS IN A DOMESTIC SETTING TO CHILDREN AGED 9 YEARS AND UNDER
Authors: Watson L , Ashby K , Day L , Newstead S , Cassell E
Published: October 2012

Background

In Victoria, children aged 0–9 years account for 83% of hospital admissions and 73% of hospital presentations for dog bite injury. More than two thirds of bites to children occur in a domestic setting.

Aim/Objectives/Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate risk factors for dog bite-related injury in a domestic setting to children aged 0–9 years.

Methods

The study region comprised the catchment of seven emergency departments (EDs). Case data were obtained from a call back study of 51 child dog bite victims who presented to the study EDs. Controls were 102 children aged 9 years and under exposed to dogs in a domestic situation in the study region and who were not bitten. Data was collected via self-report in response to an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Data was analysed using logistic regression.

Results/Outcomes

Unadjusted analysis identified several risk factors including overconfidence with dogs (OR 6.01, 95% CI 2.89 to 12.7), provocation by the child (OR 13.43, 95% CI 5.71 to 31.63), neuter status of the dog (OR 0.26, 95% CI 0.11 to 0.59) and lack of supervision (OR 10.32, 95% CI 3.80 to 28.01). Breed did not appear to be a factor with forty-three different pure bred and mixed-breed dogs involved in 51 bite incidents. Additional analysis controlled for the effects of confounding variables.

Significance/Contribution to the Field

Identification of risk factors has the potential to reduce dog bite-related injury to children in a domestic setting by guiding future interventions, including education and policy. This is the first time a case-control study of this nature, using hospital data, has been conducted.
IT SHOULDN'T HURT: CREATING POLICIES AND PLACES FOR INJURY-FREE ACTIVE LIVING FOR CHILDREN
Authors: Pollack K , Kercher C , Frattarolli S , Peek Asa C , Sleet D
Published: October 2012

Background

Being active is essential to the health and well-being of children and is often promoted to address obesity, but physical activity can also lead to injuries. Effective injury prevention programmes must accompany efforts to increase physical activity among youth, so that the health benefits from active living are not outweighed by a significant increase in injuries.

Objective

Describe the evidence base concerning unintentional injuries associated with popular physical activities, and discuss how injury prevention and obesity prevention professionals can work together to prevent injuries while promoting active lifestyles.

Methods

Review of the scientific literature related to reducing injuries during leading physical activities for youth (walking, bicycling, swimming, sports and recreation, and play on playgrounds), and effective place-based policies and design principles that can prevent injuries while promoting active lifestyles for children.

Results

Since injury prevention and active living share a focus on making physical places appealing and safe for children to be active, effective place-focused interventions can be implemented. Along with these changes, interventions that encourage behavioural adaptation are also needed. Sweden's comprehensive efforts to change the environment and implement policies to reduce its child injury death rate provide a good case study of how injury prevention efforts may also increase opportunities for safe physical activity.

Significance

Efforts to increase youth physical activity should occur in partnership with injury prevention professionals, who can reach out to those working in chronic disease prevention, and vice versa. These collaborations help promote optimal child health and low risk for injury.
EFFECT OF A GRADUATED DRIVER LICENSING DECAL PROVISION ON THE RATE OF CRASHES AND CITATIONS AMONG YOUNG PROBATIONARY DRIVERS
Authors: Curry A , Pfeiffer M , Localio R , Durbin D
Published: October 2012

Background

Decal provisions have been implemented internationally to facilitate police enforcement of Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) law restrictions (eg, passenger limits, nighttime curfew). However, a rigorous evaluation of this provision has not yet been conducted. The state of New Jersey (NJ) implemented the first-in-the-US decal provision on 1 May 2010.

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

To evaluate the effect of NJ's decal provision on the rate of citations issued for violation of GDL restrictions and police-reported crashes among probationary drivers <21 years of age.

Methods

We linked NJ's crash and licensing databases from 1 January 2008 through 31 May 2011 to identify each driver's monthly license status, age, and outcome status. Monthly rates were calculated as the proportion of licensed probationary drivers who experienced the outcome in that month. Negative binomial regression models with robust SEs were used to determine the decal's effect on crash and citation rates.

Results/Outcomes

In the first year after the law's implementation, there was a two-fold increase in the GDL citation rate (adjusted RR (95% CI) 2.02 (1.79 to 2.27)), a 9% reduction in the rate of police-reported crashes (adjusted RR (95% CI) 0.91 (0.86 to 0.97)), and a predicted 1624 young probationary drivers whose crashes were prevented by the law.

Significance/Contribution to the field

This study uniquely contributes to the international scientific evidence base for GDL by providing the first evidence of the effectiveness of a decal provision in enhancing enforcement of GDL restrictions and reducing probationary driver crashes.
PREDICTORS OF LONG TERM OUTCOMES FOLLOWING MAJOR TRAUMA: A POPULATION-BASED STUDY
Authors: Gabbe B , Sutherland A , Hart M , Morgan M , McLellan S , Wilson K , Cameron P
Published: October 2012

Background

Measuring the disability associated with injury is important for quantifying the burden of injury, evaluating the quality of trauma care, and for guiding the provision of health care for trauma survivors. The population-based, Victorian State Trauma Registry routinely collects post-discharge outcomes of trauma survivors.

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

This study aimed to describe the pattern of recovery and predictors of outcome of major trauma survivors.

Methods

4368 adult major trauma patients, eligible for 6, 12 and 24-months post-injury follow-up (injured July 2007–December 2009) were analysed. SF-12, Glasgow Outcome Scale-Extended (GOS-E), pain scores and return to work (RTW) were collected by telephone interview. Multivariate random effects regression models were fitted to identify predictors of, and change in, outcomes over time.

Results/Outcome

96% of cases were followed-up at one; 86% at two; and 69% at all, time points. 26% had fully recovered at 24-months, 71% had RTW, 62% were pain-free, but physical (PCS-12) and mental (MCS-12) health were below population norms. The adjusted odds of functional recovery (GOS-E=8), RTW, and pain free status increased from 6- to12-months, and from 12- to 24-months. MCS-12 scores were unchanged from 6- to 12-months, but increased from 12- to 24-months, while PCS-12 scores increased from 6- to 12-months only. Predictors of outcome were age, gender, nature of injury and intent, compensable status, educational level, and comorbid status.

Significance/Contribution to the Field

The pattern of recovery for each outcome differed but improvement to 24-months post-injury was evident. Ongoing disability was prevalent, with clear predictors of poor outcome.
ANALYSIS OF INJURY TRENDS—SHOW ME THE ELBOW!
Authors: Do, S Mcfaull MT
Published: October 2012

Background

A cornerstone of surveillance is the timely dissemination of information to those needing to know. However, injury data is often noisy and the qualitative assessment of trends can be problematic making the dissemination of information difficult. A quantitative method is needed to objectively characterise injury trends.

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

This study evaluated the applicability of JoinPoint software developed for cancer research to injury data collected by the Canadian Hospitals Injury Reporting and Prevention Programme (CHIRPP). Specifically, JoinPoint regression was used to quantify trends and identify important inflection points (ie, elbows) in a test-dataset.

Methods

The test-dataset consisted of all hockey-related brain injuries reported to CHIRPP between 1990 and 2009. Hockey injuries were chosen because the general temporal pattern is well known, which would facilitate evaluation of the method. JoinPoint statistical software was used to quantify injury trends across calendar months. Statistical significance of inflection points was tested using Monte Carlo permutation methods.

Results/Outcomes

Between 1990 and 2009, there were 5868 hockey related brain injuries reported to CHIRPP. Given that hockey is a winter sport, 71% of the cases were reported between the winter months. The elbows (inflection points) were found in August where the number of cases began to rise until peaked in November. The average annual percent change of 51% was significantly different from zero at α=0.05.

Significance/Contribution to the Field

From the methodological perspective, we demonstrated the utility of JoinPoint regression to CHIRPP data on hockey-related brain injuries. Surveillance information extracted using JoinPoint could be used in evidence-based policy and prevention efforts.
NATIONAL ACTION PLAN FOR CHILD INJURY PREVENTION-LAUNCHING A ROADMAP FOR AN INJURY-FREE CHILDHOOD
Authors: Baldwin G , Pogostin C , Sleet D , Ballesteros M , Salazar A , Gilchrist J , Dorigo L , Huitric M , Myers G , Seiber K
Published: October 2012

Background

In 2009, more than 9000 children and adolescents 0–19-years-old in the USA died from an unintentional injury—with the main causes including motor vehicle crashes, suffocations, drownings, poisonings, fires, and falls. The National Action Plan for Child Injury Prevention (NAP) was drafted to guide essential actions needed to reduce the burden of childhood injuries in America.

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

Provide an overview of the development process for the NAP; describe the NAP launch (April 2012) and implementation plan; and highlight ways others can use the NAP and the process of its development to inform their child injury prevention efforts.

Methods

As part of the US response to the WHO/UNICEF World Report on Child Injury Prevention, CDC worked closely with 60+ partner organisations to identify what we know, where we need to go, and how to get there in child injury prevention—codifying 22 goals and over 120 strategies.

Results/Outcome

The NAP is a concrete roadmap to strengthen the collection and interpretation of data and surveillance, promote research, enhance communications, improve education and training, advance health systems, and inform policy in child injury prevention.

Significance/Contribution to the field

The NAP provides a framework for guiding national, state and local efforts to reduce childhood injuries. It offers, for the first time, a specific set of goals and actions that can be used by federal and state agencies, advocates, NGOs and policy makers to reduce injuries. It may serve as an example for other countries.
REGULATORY APPROACH TO BUTTON BATTERIES
Authors: Jamieson J , Burela K
Published: October 2012

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has been assessing the safety of lithium-cell button batteries since August 2010.

Part of this assessment compared the Australian injury experience with published USA data. This confirmed a similar level and nature of injuries in both countries. The study included an Australian market survey of these batteries and their packaging. Suppliers were consulted for safety information. The survey revealed that some packaging allowed easy access by children to multiple batteries. However, some batteries were individually packaged within an all-plastic seal that made access by children more difficult. The warnings on the packaging also varied. Some warnings detailed the hazards associated with ingestion by small children whereas other products had no relevant warnings or focused solely on disposal of the product after use. The security of battery compartments in products most commonly known for using button batteries was also surveyed. The top two products identified with unsafe battery compartments were LED candles and bathroom scales. The survey also revealed that while remote controls were often powered by button batteries, these compartments were predominantly secured. The ACCC is also monitoring current standards development work. At this stage it appears that some products such as bathroom scales will not be captured in Australia by current standards development efforts. In April 2012thebatterycontrolledcampaign was launched in Australia by the ACCC in partnership with Energiser and Kidsafe. This campaign increased awareness in consumers and suppliers of the risks associated with ingestion of lithium-cell button batteries.
BATTERIES NOT INCLUDED: IDENTIFYING DISC BATTERY INJURY IN A HEALTH SETTING
Authors: Barker R
Published: October 2012

Background

The risk of severe injury and death associated with ingestion or insertion of disc batteries is being recognised by product safety regulators, injury prevention practitioners and specialised clinical health groups worldwide. As prevention efforts step up with public awareness campaigns, there is still a problem in identifying children who have ingested or inserted a disc battery and accessing rapid treatment.

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

To describe the challenges in recognising children who have been exposed to a disc battery from the point of view of a parent and a clinician using a clinical example. To describe challenges in identifying cases of disc battery exposure in health data.

Methods

The author works as an emergency paediatrician and directs the Queensland Injury Surveillance Unit. The presentation will describe her personal experience of a case of misdiagnosis of an oesophageal disc battery set within the context of injury surveillance data describing the extent of this issue in Queensland.

Results/Outcome

The presentation will clarify reasons for underreporting and inform broader discussion about prevention of disc battery related injury.

Significance/Contribution to the Field

This paper is a call for primary prevention as diagnosis is challenging, delays common and the results are potentially fatal.
DEPRESSION, SUICIDAL IDEATION, AND SUICIDAL ATTEMPT PRESENTING TO THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT; DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THESE COHORTS
Authors: Chakravarthy B , Hoonpongsimanont W , Anderson CL , Habicht M , Bruckner T , Lotfipour S
Published: October 2012

Background

The World Health Organisation reported approximately one million deaths by suicide every year. Few studies have looked at factors associated with admission in emergency department (ED) patients with chief complaints of depression, suicidal ideation (SI) and suicidal attempts (SA).

Objective

To assess individual determinants associated with ED disposition and length of stay (LOS) in depressed patients presenting to the ED.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study using the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey from 2006 to 2008. We used a logistical regression analysis to predict determinants associated with ED disposition and LOS. Factors included demographic information, vital signs, mode of arrival, insurance status, place of residence and concomitant psychiatric diagnosis.

Results

Of the 93 030 subjects, 2314 met the inclusion criteria (1362 depression, 353 SI and 599 SA). The odds of ICU admission were 7.9 times higher in the SA group than in the depression group. SA (OR 3.37), SI (OR 8.31), mood disorder (OR 2.30) and psychotic disorder diagnosis (OR 2.27) were predictors for psychiatric admission. Being male and abnormal triage vital signs were associated with other admissions. Patients who arrived by ambulance were less likely to be discharged. Hispanic patients and patients 15 to 29 were likely to be discharged. No factor was associated with ED LOS.

Significance to the Field

Other psychiatric diagnoses, triage vital signs and mode of arrival are important admission predictors. To optimise available resources, emergency physicians and hospital systems should be cognisant of this and consider early consultation for these patients.
INJURY PREVENTION WITH MIGRANT WORKERS IN SWEDISH AGRICULTURE—INITIAL STUDIES WITH EMPLOYER PERSPECTIVES
Authors: Lundqvist P , Svennefelt C Alwall
Published: October 2012

Background and Aim

There has been an increasing share of the work force as migrant workers in agriculture. The injuries and working conditions for these migrant workers are not well documented and their own experiences and attitudes are not yet studied. There is also lacking knowledge about the perspectives of the Swedish co-workers and owners on farms with migrant workers.

Methods

A web-based survey among employers has been done in the first part of this project. In the following part there will be work-place studies with interviews involving migrant workers as well as Swedish co-workers and employers to get a base-line of knowledge for further actions.

Results

The initial web-based survey to employers was responded by almost 4000 farm employers. About 20% of the responders said that they used migrant workers during 2011, the majority from a country within the European Union (EU). The main reason for using migrant workers was lack of Swedish workers and financial reasons. The migrant workers were used for in many different work operations such as: animal production, weeding, planting and harvesting of field crops, forestry work, construction and maintenance of farm buildings. The major problems were related to language issues, such as: communication, information, misunderstandings leading to injuries etc.

Contribution to the Field

The final results will be presented and discussed at a work-shop with involved stakeholders, organisations, authorities, researchers and other in order to create an action plan, a webpage or a ‘hand-book’ for employers/managers as well as a research plan for further research.
A SCORE CARD TO EVALUATE PEDESTRIAN SAFETY IN URBAN ENVIRONMENTS USING WALKABILITY MEASURES
Authors: Dias I , Bandara S
Published: October 2012

Background

Accident statistics in Sri Lanka shows that nearly 35% of the fatalities are pedestrians and they are at a higher risk on roads. The main reason for the above is the absence or poor condition of pedestrian space on road sides. Even a narrow sidewalk can be converted to a pedestrian safe zone by introducing appropriate designs elements. As no clear methodology exists to evaluate pedestrian facilities road authorities do not pay much attention to pedestrian facilities.

Objectives

The objective was to develop a score card that can evaluate the pedestrian facilities along a road link that include safety and comfort and be able to compare two road links with respect to walkability.

Methods

Existing methods to evaluating walkability, which are qualitative in nature, were studied carefully to identify the relevant parameters affecting walkability. Method was develop to evaluate major parameters quantitatively such a way that observers biasness can be eliminated.

Results

The proposed score card evaluates the pedestrian facilities on a road link not longer than 500 m. The score is given as a percentage and hence it can be used to compare two roads. This evaluates sidewalk width, obstructions, pedestrian crossings, pedestrian amenities, sidewalk paving conditions, land use mix, disability infrastructure etc.

Contribution to the Field

The deficiencies in pedestrian facilities especially with respect to safety can be identified in any road and a set of roads can be ranked according to their pedestrian safety and comfort level. Hence relevant authorities can take necessary steps in improving the identified deficiencies.
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINANTS OF BICYCLING INJURIES
Authors: Ruest N , Rowe BH , McCormack GR , Nettel-Aguirre A , Hagel BE
Published: October 2012

Background

Identification of environmental risk factors for bicycling injuries could lead to improved safety and increased bicycling.

Objectives

To identify built environment characteristics associated with bicycling injuries.

Methods

Participants were recruited from seven emergency departments (ED) in Alberta, Canada. Cases were bicyclists struck by a motor-vehicle (MV) or with severe injuries (hospitalised). Controls were bicyclists who were not hit by a car or those seen and discharged from the ED, matched on day and time. Crash details were collected by interview and chart reviews. Environmental audits performed at injury locations captured path, roadway, safety, land use, and aesthetic characteristics. Logistic regression OR adjusted for age, sex, peak time, and bicyclist speed with 95% CI were estimated to relate injury risk to environmental characteristics.

Results

We audited 274 locations (70 case sites). A higher proportion of MV cases than controls (35.7% vs 11.3%) were commuting. Based on the unmatched analyses, the odds of a MV event were higher at locations with greater traffic volume (OR 3.5; 95% CI 1.4 to 8.9), intersections (OR 2.8; 95% CI 1.1 to 7.2), path obstructions (OR 2.6; 95% CI 1.1 to 5.9), and retail land use (OR 7.5; 95% CI 3.1 to 18.0). Locations with street lights (OR 0.4; 95% CI 0.2 to 0.9), high surveillance (OR 0.3; 95% CI 0.1 to 0.8), or good road condition (OR 0.4; 95% CI 0.2 to 0.9) reduced severe injury risk. Results were similar based on matched analyses.

Significance

Built environmental risk factors for bicyclist injury were identified and could be modified to increase safety and encourage more bicycling.
USING SPATIAL PLANNING TO PREVENT UNINTENTIONAL INJURIES
Authors: Mytton J , Gray S , Barton H , Lease H , Carmichael L
Published: October 2012

Background

Developing urban and rural areas affects the environment, which can in turn affect the risk of unintentional injuries. The process to evaluate development proposals includes statutory appraisal methods that should consider any health consequences.

Aims/Objectives/Purpose

To evaluate whether statutory appraisal processes used on spatial plans consider unintentional injury risk, and whether changes to proposed developments result.

Methods

A systematic review collated and narratively synthesised studies between 1987 and 2010 that evaluated appraisals of plans where health issues, including injury risk, were considered.

Results/Outcome

Twenty reports meeting the inclusion criteria were identified from 6161 citations sourced from electronic databases, website searches, and grey literature. All 135 different case studies described were from high income countries and none from low or middle income countries. Twenty-two used Health Impact Assessment (HIA) methods, and 113 used Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) or other integrated methods. Unintentional injury was included in 13 of 22 HIA reports (usually within transport plans/strategies) but there was very little evidence that this resulted in recommendations that were implemented or subsequently evaluated. Unintentional injury was less likely to be considered in SEA or other integrated appraisal methods.

Significance/Contribution to the Field

The potential for using spatial planning appraisal to consider the impact of developments on unintentional injury risk and to make changes to reduce risk appears to be underused and under-evaluated. Where used, there is a risk of bias (no independent evaluation), lack of detail and a lack of triangulation of results.
SURVEY OF HOT WATER TEMPERATURES IN CAMPGROUNDS: ELEVATED SCALDING RISK AND ENERGY WASTAGE
Authors: Wilson N , Jarman J , Brander B , Michael K
Published: October 2012

Background

Scalds from domestic hot water are an important public health problem in New Zealand (NZ).

Aims

We aimed to study the hot water hazard in a yet unstudied setting: that of campgrounds.

Methods

Convenience sampling was performed involving 25 NZ campgrounds. These were sampled during summer months over a 4-year period (2008–2011) and in five different regions. We measured the temperature of hot water in basin taps and in showers.

Results

There were relatively high temperatures for both basin taps and showers (n=82 samples), with 74% of measurements exceeding the maximum level in NZ's Building Code of 55°C. But if a lower maximum level, as recommended by various agencies is considered (eg, 48.9°C, equivalent to 120°F, is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics), then 90% of samples were too hot. A further problem was lack of cues as to which tap was for hot water. Colour-coding or word labels were partially present in 32% of basins and completely absent in 7%. For showers, the equivalent figures were: 4% and 36% respectively.

Significance

The excessive temperatures identified in this study warrant action by government agencies to reduce the risk of scalding, particularly for children, who are commonly unsupervised at campground bathrooms. Reducing this risk may be more important that legionellosis prevention (given the absence of good evidence of infection via domestic hot water). Reducing hot water storage temperatures will also contribute to more efficient use of energy and save fuel costs for campground operators.
COMMUNITY SAFETY WITH POLICE VOLUNTEERS
Authors: Namprasert A
Published: October 2012

Background

Traffic accidents, drug, narcotic, crime, and physical abuse are problems that have caused loss of life and property with a tendency rate of increasing. Because of less police officer especially in remote area, promoting the police volunteer is the strategy to prevent these problems.

Objective

People in community are participating in a life and property protection and their community.

Methods

Screening community leaders to be trained in police tactical training session in the area of maintaining order and traffic management at Police Training Institute. The community leaders appointed as police volunteers and are responsible for security of life and property in their community. Police volunteers also implement an alert emergency response service and emergency assistance as requested by their community.

Results

The network of police volunteers with 60–80 people per community. They handle traffic management, monitor safety of life and property, and manage the risk and danger zone, the watching zone and the checking point zone to restrain reckless driving in order to avoid traffic accidents.

Success

The programme indicated statistical data of zero rates in dreadful act and physical fighting among teenagers case. In addition, the rate of physical abuse reduced by 70.5%, drug addicts by 65.5% and fatalities from road accidents by 50%.

Significance

People can provide their safety by themselves, with the success of implementation of the community safety plan; the project has expanded to 132 additional communities
INCREASED DETECTION OF ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION AND AT-RISK DRINKING WITH COMPUTERISED ALCOHOL SCREENING AND BRIEF INTERVENTION (CASI)
Authors: Lotfipour S , James H , Hoonpongsimanont W , Roumani S , Chakravarthy B , Anderson C
Published: October 2012

Background

The impact of alcohol use has been widely studied and is considered a public health issue. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) recommends Screening and Brief Intervention and Referral Treatment (SBIRT) but the actual practice in the Emergency Department (ED) is deviated due to limited provider time and financial resources.

Objectives

To assess the effectiveness of alcohol screening using Computerised Alcohol Screening and brief Intervention (CASI) compared to alcohol screening by triage nurse during Medical Screening Examination (MSE) in the ED.

Methods

Retrospective review of CASI/MSE database from January 2008 through December 2009, collected in the tertiary, level I Trauma ED was performed. Inclusion criteria included age ≥18, and completion of both the MSE and CASI. We analysed the database by comparing age, gender, primary language (English, Spanish), and Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) scores using McNemar's analysis.

Results

Data was available for 5835 patients. CASI showed an increase in detection of at-risk drinking over MSE across all ages, gender, and primary language with statistically significant. MSE found 2.5% at-risk drinkers while CASI found 11.5% at risk drinkers (OR 8.88, 95%CI 6.89 to 11.61). Similar results were found in 18–20-year-old patients. MSE identified 1.7% at-risk drinkers and CASI reported 15.94% (OR 19.33, 95% CI 6.29 to 96.74).

Significance

CASI increased detection of at-risk alcohol drinkers compared with MSE across all ages, gender, and primary language. CASI is a promising innovative method for alcohol screening in the ED for the adult population including under-aged drinkers.
RELATIVE AND ATTRIBUTABLE RISKS OF FATAL CRASHES ASSOCIATED WITH DRUG USE
Authors: Li G
Published: October 2012

Background

While alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes have declined in recent years, driving under the influence of illicit drugs and prescription drugs has become a major safety concern. The influence of drugs on driving safety has been studied extensively under controlled, experimental conditions based on driving simulators. Epidemiologic data linking drug use and crash risk, however, are scant.

Aims

To estimate the relative and attributable risks of fatal crashes associated with drug use in drivers.

Methods

The association between drug use and fatal crash risk was assessed using the case-control design and the population-attributable risk was calculated based on the estimated OR and prevalence of drug use among drivers. Cases (n=737) were drivers who were involved in fatal crashes on Fridays and Saturdays during specific daytime and night time periods between during July 20, 2007 through December 1, 2007 in the continental USA and who tested for drugs, identified from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System. Controls (n=6906) were participants of the 2007 National Roadside Survey of Alcohol and Drug Use, who were randomly selected for drug testing while driving during the same time periods as the cases.

Results

Overall, 31.9% of the cases and 13.7% of the controls tested positive for at least one drug, yielding a crude OR of 2.96 (95% CI 2.49 to 3.51). The estimated ORs between drug use and fatal crash involvement were similar between sexes and across age groups and time periods. The estimated population-attributable risk of fatal crashes associated with drug use was 21.2%.

Significance

In the USA, drugged driving is common and is attributable to over one-fifth of fatal crashes. Intervention programmes to prevent drugged driving are urgently needed.
A NOVEL TRAINING FOR OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY IN AGRICULTURE USING MOBILE TRAINING UNIT (MTU)
Authors: Bodankin R , Tir N
Published: October 2012

Background

During the recent years there has been a clear increase of foreign non-Hebrew speaking workers in agriculture (mostly citizens of Thailand), with a different safety culture. This situation created the immediate need to teach large groups of workers the safety rules at work. Most employers object to send their employees for outdoor safety training.

Purpose

To create a mobile training unit (MTU) with a tutorial in workers' languages, based on an interactive teaching aid.

Methods

The MTU comprises multimedia computers with touch screens and sophisticated learning software in Hebrew, Arabic and Thai languages. The software includes the presentation of different safety problems from the agriculture world and imitates a computer game. The participant's answer to questions is followed by detailed explanations. The Learning Management System allows characterising different student's profiles according to the environment in which the session is taking place.

Three workers can practice at the same time.

Outcome

The mobility and self-sufficiency of the training unit enable training workers on any agricultural work site. The software allows user friendly training in participant's languages and adjusting the training material to the needs of any specific workplace.

Significance

We created a tool for training agricultural workers with minimum loss of work time and provided free of charge (with government funding).
TRAUMA REGISTRIES: WHAT IS THE EXPERIENCE IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES?
Authors: O'Reilly G , Joshipura M , Peter C , Russell G
Published: October 2012

Background

Trauma systems reduce mortality; the trauma registry is a key driver of improvements in trauma care. Developing countries have begun to develop trauma systems but there is relatively little trauma registry experience in less-resourced settings.

Aims

The aim of this study was to review the published experience of trauma registries in developing countries.

Methods

A structured review of the literature was performed. All abstracts referring to a trauma registry in a developing country as defined by the United Nations Human Development Index were included. The Trauma Registry Assessment Tool was applied to the search results to collect and analyse the experience of trauma registries in developing countries.

Results

There were 84 articles, 76 of which were sourced from 46 registries. The remaining 8 articles were perspectives. Most were from Iran, followed by China, Jamaica and Uganda. Regarding data methodology, only 4 registries used ISS to define inclusion criteria. Most registries collected data on variables from all five variable groups. Several registries collected data for less than 20 variables. Only 3 registries measured disability using a score. The most common scores of injury severity were ISS, followed by RTS, TRISS and the Kampala Trauma Score.

Significance

Several countries are responsible for the majority of developing country trauma registry publications. ISS is unlikely to be used to define inclusion criteria, and the Kampala Trauma Score is not uncommonly used to measure injury severity. The trauma registry experience of developing countries can inform trauma registry development in similar settings.