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My week with Marilyn
In the summer of 1956, 23-year-old Colin Clark, determined to make his way in the film business, worked as a lowly assistant on the set of The Prince and the Showgirl, the film that famously united Sir Laurence Olivier and Marilyn Monroe. When his diary account was published, one week was missing. This is the story of that week: an idyll in which he escorted a Monroe desperate to get away from Hollywood hangers-on and the pressures of work.
DVD
A preliminary note on attraction and oviposition preferences of Chrysomya rufifacies (Macquart) (Diptera: Calliphoridae)
Chrysomya rufifacies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) is a blow fly species of forensic importance, documented to have a strong preference for colonisation of substrate already inhabited by heterospecific blow fly larvae, thus exhibiting secondary colonisation behaviour. Larvae exhibit predatory behaviour that may be useful to support development where food substrate is limited or high competition exists, but they may alternately be drawn to pre-colonised substrate to capitalise on the advantages of collective exodigestion by previous/current colonisers. Previous authors have suggested female Ch. rufifacies may use visual orientation to detect substrate currently colonised by heterospecific larvae, rather than chemoreception of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), that signify condition of substrate, which would infer that active colonisation is likely a more important oviposition cue for Ch. rufifacies than substrate condition. This study addressed attraction as well as oviposition, examining whether the condition of substrate (either previously colonised or never colonised) or the presence of heterospecific larvae was more important in the initial choice of food source by female Ch. rufifacies where conspecifics were not present, and whether the condition of substrate and presence of heterospecific larvae affects the number of offspring deposited by a female. Attraction was studied using a Y-olfactometer system, and oviposition using a binary-choice assay, with females responding to pairwise choice between an array of meat conditions (fresh, larval aged or aged) and presence/absence of Lucilia sericata larvae. Females displayed a hierarchy of choice of larval aged substrate > aged substrate > fresh substrate, with the active presence of heterospecific larvae a secondary factor in choice. Females produced higher offspring numbers on meat that was either currently or previously colonised by heterospecific larvae, demonstrating the importance of heterospecific indicators of previous or current colonisation as an oviposition cue. This serves as an important consideration for entomologists working with Ch. rufifacies in any capacity where other blow fly species may be present, and most importantly for forensic entomologists where time of colonisation is utilised to estimate PMI.
Journal Article
Three years of pandemic stress and staffing challenges: a retrospective qualitative study of COVID-19 impacts on frontline healthcare workers’ mental health and wellbeing
Background
Healthcare systems have faced unprecedented demand over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, placing significant burdens on frontline doctors, nurses, and support staff. Many studies have thus observed significant impacts on frontline healthcare workers’ mental health and wellbeing, however, few studies have explored the evolving nature of healthcare roles and its impacts on healthcare workers. This study retrospectively explored the changing nature of frontline healthcare roles over the last three years of the pandemic, and its impact on stressors and supports related to frontline healthcare workers’ mental health and wellbeing.
Method
A total of 11 Victorian (Australia) frontline healthcare workers from frontline wards participated in retrospective semi-structured interviews between March 2023 to April 2023. Data was analysed using thematic analysis, using a reflective approach to identify patterns across participant narratives and experiences.
Results
Three superordinate and nine subordinate themes were identified. Themes revolved around (1) COVID-19 anxiety and work related stressors in the initial and later stages of the pandemic, (2) The great resignation of healthcare workers that led to workforce issues, fatigue and exhaustion, which subsequently impacted team dynamics, workplace culture, engagement at work, and patient care, and (3) Strained social connections and work to family spillover effects during the COVID-19 era, as well as the key relational supports that helped healthcare workers manage stressors.
Conclusion
The COVID-19 pandemic appears to have amplified existing challenges in healthcare provision and highlighted the psychological burden of healthcare roles on staff. Workplace demands have shifted from crisis management of acute risk of COVID-19 infections to now managing staffing shortages, presenting new challenges that require innovative solutions to ensure frontline HCWs’ mental health are protected. There is thus a need to adapt staff supports to manage the excessive demand on staff now, and the findings here offer recommendations for governments, health organisations, and healthcare leaders to design policies and supports that meets the needs of frontline HCW’s mental health and wellbeing.
Journal Article
Effectiveness of a washing protocol for the removal of gunshot residue from forensically relevant Lucilia sericata larvae
Blowfly larvae (Diptera: Calliphoridae) have been suggested to have practical application as a toxicological target in forensic science. These larvae may be of use for gunshot residue analysis where traditional analytical targets such as the liver or entry wounds are absent and may allow an opportunity to identify toxins, drugs and gunshot residue from a corpse. A primary weakness of GSR identification in entomotoxicology is the lack of a standardised methodology for processing the larvae for accurate determination of GSR. In this study, Lucilia sericata (Meigen) larvae were exposed to pork mince that was shot 4 times at close range, the larvae were then sampled 12 hourly. A wash protocol for the larvae was developed and the concentrations of Ga, Ba, and Pb, key GSR markers were determined in Lucilia sericata larvae and the solution used to wash them to identify the effectiveness of the cleaning process. Both the whole larvae and each respective wash solution were analysed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Analysis of the wash solutions revealed that a minimum of two washes were required to remove external contaminants prior to ICP-MS analysis of the whole larvae. This work demonstrates the importance of implementing an effective wash protocol when measuring GSR of forensic interest within larvae, as contaminants on the surface of the larvae could lead to misinterpretation of data.
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•A wash protocol for larvae was developed removing elements from gunshot residue.•At least two wash cycles are required to surface decontaminate GSR from larvae.•Key gunshot residue elements Ba, Pb and Ga were effective decontamination markers.
Journal Article
Aquatic conditions & bacterial communities as drivers of the decomposition of submerged remains
Aquatic decomposition, as a forensic discipline, has been largely under-investigated as a consequence of the highly complex and influential variability of the water environment. The limitation to the adaptability of scenario specific results justifies the necessity for experimental research to increase our understanding of the aquatic environment and the development of post-mortem submersion interval (PMSI) methods of estimation. This preliminary research aims to address this contextual gap by assessing the variation in the bacterial composition of aquatic biofilms as explained by water parameter measurements over time, associated with clothed and bare decomposing remains.
As part of three field investigations, a total of 9 still-born piglets (n = 3, per trial) were used as human analogues and were submerged bare or clothed in either natural cotton or synthetic nylon. Changes in the bacterial community composition of the water surrounding the submerged remains were assessed at 4 discrete time points post submersion (7, 14, 21 and 28 days) by 16 S rRNA gene Next Generation Sequencing analysis and compared to coinciding water parameter measurements (i.e. conductivity, total dissolved solids (TDS), salinity, pH, and dissolved oxygen (DO)).
Bacterial diversity was found to change over time and relative to clothing type, where significant variation was observed between synthetic nylon samples and bare/cotton samples. Seasonality was a major driver of bacterial diversity, where substantial variation was found between samples collected in early winter to those collected in mid - late winter. Water parameter measures of pH, salinity and DO were identified to best explain the global bacterial community composition and their corresponding dynamic trajectory patterns overtime.
Further investigation into bacterial community dynamics in accordance with varying environmental conditions could potentially lead to the determination of influential extrinsic factors that may drive bacterial activity in aquatic decomposition. Together with the identification of potential bacterial markers that complement the different stages of decomposition, this may provide a future approach to PMSI estimations.
•Clothing and clothing type have considerable impact on the global variation of decomposer aquatic bacterial communities.•Environmental variables including salinity, dissolved oxygen and pH drive bacterial assemblages of submerged remains.•Similar trends in Proteobacteria: Bacteroidota ratios indicate this could be used as a biomarker for estimating PMSI.•Differences in daily temperature highs and lows may have influence on the diversity of aquatic bacterial communities.
Journal Article
Efficacy of Peer Networks to Increase Social Connections Among High School Students With and Without Autism Spectrum Disorder
Although peer interaction takes on increased salience during adolescence, such social connections remain elusive for many high school students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This social isolation can be particularly prevalent within unstructured school contexts. In this study, we examined the effects of a lunchtime peer network intervention on the social engagement and peer interactions of four adolescent students with ASD. Upon introduction of the peer networks, we observed substantial increases in the percentage of intervals containing peer interactions and social engagement across all participants. Further, students with ASD, peer partners, and school personnel all considered the intervention to be acceptable and feasible. We offer recommendations for research and practice aimed at enhancing the efficacy and social validity of peer-mediated interventions at the secondary school level.
Journal Article
Co‐Production and Implementation of ‘Count Me In’: A Bottom‐Up Approach to Inclusive Research and Participation in a National Health Service in England
Background Research‐active National Health Service (NHS) services are linked to better care quality and health outcomes. However, traditional research participant recruitment methods, such as ‘opt‐in’ strategies, often face challenges in reaching diverse populations. The ‘Count Me In’ (CMI) system was introduced to address these barriers through an ‘opt‐out’ model, aiming to normalise research participation and promote inclusivity. At Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust, a bottom‐up approach was employed to adapt CMI, ensuring meaningful engagement with service users, carers and communities in its design and implementation. Methods CMI was co‐produced with stakeholders through a series of workshops, discussion groups and consultations with over 300 participants, including service users, carers and NHS staff. Key activities included listening exercises to understand concerns, co‐designing campaign materials and forming a Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) Advisory Group. The group provided ongoing guidance to ensure that the system aligned with the needs of underserved communities and upheld ethical and cultural sensitivity. Findings Stakeholders widely supported the ‘opt‐out’ approach, recognising its potential to improve research inclusivity. Participants highlighted the importance of clear communication, cultural sensitivity and robust data protection measures. Specific research priorities, such as mental health and social isolation, were identified. Co‐produced materials, including plain‐language guides and culturally appropriate visuals, addressed concerns about privacy, stigma and accessibility, fostering trust and confidence in the system. Conclusion The CMI system is an acceptable and scalable model for inclusive research recruitment, embedding research into routine care. The bottom‐up approach ensured the system was tailored to local needs, promoting equity and accessibility. Patient and Public Contribution A partnership approach working with PPIE leads at the Mental Health Research for Innovation Centre (M‐RIC) ensured that service users, carers and community members shaped the CMI system through extensive co‐production activities. The development of the system, therefore, reflected their lived experiences and priorities, thereby enhancing its inclusivity and impact.
Journal Article
A feasibility study of the costs and consequences of improving the oral health of older people in care homes: findings from the TOPIC study
Background
In the UK older adults in care homes have exhibited poorer oral health than age-equivalent persons in the community. In response the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence issued guidance (NG48) on the maintenance and improvement of oral health in this group. Currently, there is little evidence on the cost-effectiveness of such interventions. The aim of this study was to examine the feasibility of evaluating an intervention framed around NICE guidance.
Methods
The study was undertaken in 22 care homes across 2 sites with eligibility criteria used to ensure access to residents for whom the oral health care intervention was relevant and who could consent to participation. The intervention followed the guidance issued by NICE in respect of care staff knowledge; oral health assessment and development of care plans, and provision of daily mouth care to residents. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected from residents and care home managers and interviews undertaken with a range of stakeholders. Quantitative data from residents comprised EQ5D5L at baseline, 6 and 12 months, qualitiative data was taken from interviews. Descriptive statistics and a discussion of themes raised in surveys and interviews was undertaken. The trial was registered with the UK’s Clinical Study Registry (ISRCTN10276613) on 17/04/2020.
Results
Of 119 residents recruited, 115 provided usable EQ5D5L data at baseline. The data had good face validity. Managers from 7 of 22 homes provided responses to the care home survey. All responding care homes routinely recorded information on care provided to residents and 5 of the 7 recorded information on the funding source for that care. Care assistant time was a key consideration among managers in terms of resource use. Residents overall quality of life was a key consideration among managers in terms of outcomes. Among key stakeholders, there was a universal appreciation of the need to improve the evidence base on the value for money of interventions framed around NG48.
Conclusion
The study supports the case for the conduct of an economic evaluation in a definitive trial to address a manifest gap in the evidence base on oral hygiene interventions in this context.
Journal Article
Implementation and Validation of Trial-Based Functional Analyses in Public Elementary School Settings
Although functional analysis (FA) remains the standard for identifying the function of problem behavior for students with developmental disabilities, traditional FA procedures are typically costly in terms of time, resources, and perceived risks. Preliminary research suggests that trial-based FA may be a less costly alternative. The purpose of this study was to add to the burgeoning evidence on trial-based FA. Working with students with disabilities, school-based paraprofessionals conducted trial-based FAs for four students with developmental disabilities emitting high-frequency problem behavior. We then conducted brief contingency reversals to assess validity of hypotheses derived from the trial-based FA. Results of the present study add to the small but growing evidence base validating the trialbased FA as a practical and flexible alternative to the standard FA in school settings.
Journal Article
Mitochondrial DNA cytochrome oxidase I gene: potential for distinction between immature stages of some forensically important fly species (Diptera) in western Australia
Forensic entomology requires the fast and accurate identification of insects collected from a corpse for estimation of the postmortem interval (PMI). Identification of specimens is traditionally performed using morphological features of the insect. Morphological identification may be complicated however by the numerical diversity of species and physical similarity between different species, particularly in immature stages. In this study, sequencing was performed to study the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) as the prospective basis of a diagnostic technique. The sequencing focused on a section of the cytochrome oxidase I encoding region of mtDNA. Three species of calliphorid (blow flies) commonly associated with corpses in western Australia, Calliphora dubia, Chrysomya rufifacies and Lucilia sericata, in addition to specimens of Calliphora augur and Chrysomya megacephala were studied. Phylogenetic analysis of data revealed grouping of species according to genus. The DNA region sequenced allowed identification of all species, providing high support for separation on congeneric species. Low levels of variation between some species of the same genus however indicate that further sequencing is required to locate a region for development of a molecular-based technique for identification.
Journal Article