Beyond Death

APRIL JOURNAL CLUB - Post-Mortem Imaging Biobanks: Building Data for Reproducibility, Standardization and AI Integration

This month, we present the following article:
De-Giorgio F, Benedetti B, Mancino M, Sala E, Pascali VL. Post-Mortem Imaging Biobanks: Building Data for Reproducibility, Standardization, and AI Integration.European Journal of Radiology. 2025;185:112011. doi: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2025.112011.
 
The discussion explores the role of post-mortem imaging biobanks in forensic and clinical research, emphasising their potential for standardising imaging protocols, supporting AI-driven analysis, and improving the reproducibility of forensic investigations. The article highlights key challenges, including ethical considerations, data storage limitations, and the need for global collaboration in developing accessible and secure imaging databases.
 
NB. Each episode is AI-generated using Google Notebook LM. The article(s) and sources are chosen by Drs. Susan Shelmerdine & Natasha Davendralingam based on quality of research, audience interest, and importance of the topic.

Susie Shelmerdine discusses AI in Postmortem Imaging

In this episode of Beyond Death, Dr. Natasha Davendralingham sits down with Professor Susie Shelmerdine, academic radiologist, AI thought leader, and co-founder of Anubix. Susie shares her journey into post-mortem imaging, how a personal experience shaped her career, and the creation of the world’s first post-mortem imaging education platform. She also discusses the evolving role of AI in death care, the misconceptions around post-mortem imaging, and why open conversations about death are so important.

Natasha Davendralingam on Entrepreneurship & Impact

In this episode of Beyond Death, Dr. Susie Shelmerdine sits down with Dr. Natasha Davendralingham, co-founder of Anubix and post-mortem radiologist, to discuss the journey of building a pioneering post-mortem imaging service.
Natasha shares her path from medicine to entrepreneurship, the challenges of launching a business in the death care sector, and the passion that drives her work. She also opens up about the misconceptions surrounding private-sector innovation in forensic imaging and the importance of supporting bereaved families through expert-led care.

MARCH JOURNAL CLUB - Post-Mortem Imaging to Investigate the Causes of Stillbirth in Australia: Views of Parents, Midwives and Obstetricians.

This month, we present the following article:
Loughnan SA, Wojcieszek AM, Singline L, et al. Post-Mortem Imaging to Investigate the Causes of Stillbirth in Australia: Views of Parents, Midwives and Obstetricians.
Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Oncology. 2025;0:1–10. doi: 10.1111/1754-9485.13828.
 
The discussion explores the role of post-mortem imaging (PMI) in stillbirth investigations, examining the perspectives of parents, midwives, and obstetricians. Findings reveal that PMI is underutilised, with many healthcare providers unsure of its value compared to traditional autopsy. The study highlights the need for increased education and awareness to improve uptake and integration of PMI in perinatal death investigations.
 
NB. Each episode is AI-generated using Google Notebook LM. The article(s) and sources are chosen by Drs. Susan Shelmerdine & Natasha Davendralingam based on quality of research, audience interest, and importance of the topic.
 
NB. Each episode is AI -generated using Google Notebook LM. The article(s) and sources are chosen by Drs. Susan Shelmerdine & Natasha Davendralingam based on quality of research, audience interest and importance of topic matter.

Rachel Duncan on Life as a Coroner’s Officer

In this episode of Beyond Death, hosts Dr. Mark Viner and Lindsay Batty-Smith sit down with Rachel Duncan, a Metropolitan Police Coroner’s Officer, to explore the vital but often misunderstood role of coroner’s officers in death investigations.
Rachel shares her journey from forensic science student and special constable to her current role, where she supports bereaved families, gathers critical information for coroners, and helps navigate the complex inquest process. She also opens up about the emotional challenges of working with cases involving child deaths, suicide, and medical complexities—and how she finds strength through faith, community, and self-care. Join us for this insightful conversation that sheds light on the human side of forensic and death investigation work.

Kerry Daynes on compassion in forensic psychology

In this episode of Beyond Death, hosts Mark and Lindsay interview Kerry Daynes, one of the UK’s most trusted forensic psychologists. With a career spanning nearly three decades, Kerry has worked with everyone from serial killers to vulnerable individuals, delving into the human psyche and the systemic challenges of justice.
Kerry offers insights into her pioneering work, the importance of 'rational compassion,' and unforgettable cases that shaped her perspective. She also discusses her bestselling books, The Dark Side of the Mind and What Lies Buried, which reveal the human stories behind the headlines.
This episode explores the complexities of criminal behaviour, the shortcomings of the justice system, and the hope for a more compassionate approach to rehabilitation.

FEBRUARY JOURNAL CLUB - The utility of postmortem radiological imaging in forensic neuropathology practice

Welcome to the February Journal Club!
 
This month, we present the following article:
Iles L. The utility of postmortem radiological imaging in forensic neuropathology practice. Pathology. 2024
Nov 14:S0031-3025(24)00293-9. doi: 10.1016/j.pathol.2024.10.005. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39668072.
Available here: https://www.pathologyjournal.rcpa.edu.au/article/S0031-3025(24)00293-9/fulltext
 
The discussion focuses on the integration of PMCT in forensic neuropathology, highlighting its strengths in detecting medium-to-large hemorrhages, guiding examination planning, and its limitations in identifying smaller injuries or vascular conditions. Tune in to explore the synergy of radiological imaging with traditional forensic methods, offering a deeper understanding of its potential in modern medicolegal investigations.
 
NB. Each episode is AI -generated using Google Notebook LM. The article(s) and sources are chosen by Drs. Susan Shelmerdine & Natasha Davendralingam based on quality of research, audience interest and importance of topic matter.

Poppy Mardell on transforming the funeral industry

In this episode of Beyond Death, hosts Mark and Lindsay welcome Poppy Mardall, founder of Poppy’s Funerals, a trailblazer in the funeral industry. Poppy shares her journey from a career in art to creating a compassionate, human centred approach to end-of-life care. She discusses the challenges of transforming an outdated and unregulated sector, her mission to provide outstanding care for the living and the deceased, and her dedication to empowering families during one of life’s most vulnerable moments. This episode delves into the importance of honouring individuality in death, breaking taboos around grief, and creating meaningful choices for those left behind.

JANUARY JOURNAL CLUB - Impact of changing from autopsy to post-mortem CT in an entire HM Coroner region

As a first journal club discussion for the new year, we present the article:
Davendralingam N, Brookes AL, Shah MA, Shelmerdine SC.
Post-mortem CT service structures in non-suspicious death investigations.
BJR Open. 2024 Oct 29;6(1):tzae036. doi: 10.1093/bjro/tzae036.
Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11568351/
 
This article reviews various service structures for post-mortem CT (PMCT) scans used as a less invasive alternative to traditional autopsies. It explores different PMCT scanner types—static, relocatable, and mobile—comparing their costs, advantages, and logistical challenges. The authors also examine diverse service models, including pathologist-led, radiologist-led, and hybrid approaches, and various reporting structures (in-house, teleradiology, or a combination). Real-world examples from UK institutions illustrate the practical implementation of these models. Finally, the article highlights the importance of adapting PMCT services to local needs and resources.
 
NB. Each episode is AI -generated using Google Notebook LM. The article(s) and sources are chosen by Drs. Susan Shelmerdine & Natasha Davendralingam based on quality of research, audience interest and importance of topic matter.
 

Julie Bramble explores the emotional side of Crime Scene Investigation

In this episode of Beyond Death, hosts Mark and Lindsay interview Julie Bramble, a former crime scene investigator and current forensic educator. With extensive experience in crime scene investigation and embalming, Julie shares her journey from the mortuary to crime scenes and the classroom. She provides insights into the realities of forensic work, the emotional challenges professionals face, and the importance of coping strategies and open communication. Julie also discusses her passion for teaching and how her practical experience informs her approach to educating the next generation of forensic experts. This episode dives into the world of crime scene investigation, the value of real-world learning, and the human side of forensic science.