'Flick a switch': Just how psychopathic are surgeons?
In recent weeks, two surgeons – one French, one British – have made headlines for all the wrong reasons. Those cases have resurfaced a long-standing, uncomfortable question: might the very traits that make a surgeon brilliant also mask something far more troubling?
These are the people we trust to hold a sharpened knife above our bare bellies and press down until they see blood. We let them tinker with our hearts, brains and bowels while we lie unconscious beneath their
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NZ Herald
3 days ago
- NZ Herald
'Flick a switch': Just how psychopathic are surgeons?
In recent weeks, two surgeons – one French, one British – have made headlines for all the wrong reasons. Those cases have resurfaced a long-standing, uncomfortable question: might the very traits that make a surgeon brilliant also mask something far more troubling? These are the people we trust to hold a sharpened knife above our bare bellies and press down until they see blood. We let them tinker with our hearts, brains and bowels while we lie unconscious beneath their
Otago Daily Times
06-06-2025
- Otago Daily Times
Lemon heaven
Penelope Maguire celebrates the bright flavours citrus brings us in our darker seasons. I think I write about citrus around this time every year — but how could I not? With the darkening afternoons and the pull to lean into heartier, more comforting meals, citrus arrives like nature's sweet little reminder that brightness still exists, even on the greyest days. Lemons, oranges, mandarins and limes do more than just brighten a dish — their sharp acidity and aromatic oils cut through the richness of winter meals, making them a perfect seasonal pairing. I don't think that's a coincidence. Our digestion is closely tied to our circadian rhythms and, in winter, with shorter days and less natural light, everything tends to slow down — digestion included. Hormonal shifts, darker evenings, and disrupted meal timing can all make our digestive systems feel a little more sluggish. This is where lemons really shine. Traditionally used to support digestion and liver function, they can stimulate gastric juices, encourage bile production (essential for breaking down fats), and ease the heaviness that follows a rich meal. They're also high in vitamin C and flavonoids — antioxidants that support vitality, immunity, and the liver's natural detoxification processes. And yes — I realise the irony of following that with dessert recipes. But sometimes, especially in the darker months, a little sweetness is medicine too. This month, I'm sharing two of my favourite lemony recipes: a delicate Lavender & Lemon Posset, served in hollowed lemon halves, and a lush Lemon, Lemon Verbena & Boysenberry Cake with a fluffy cream cheese icing and swirls of lemon curd. The lavender and lemon verbena are optional — so don't let their absence stop you from making these — but if you've got a lemon verbena still hanging on in the garden, now's the perfect time to use it. Enjoy! Lavender and lemon posset A delicate, vintage-style dessert that feels light and elegant, served in its own pretty lemon shell. It's quick to make, beautiful on the table, and a perfect creamy, sweet and acidic finish to a winter meal. Ideally, you'll want to use culinary or English lavender ( Lavandula angustifolia ) for this — it's usually available dried from herb stores, or you might find some in your own garden. If you only have the more common French lavender ( Lavandula dentata ), that's OK too — just use a lighter hand, as its flavour is a little more camphorous. One or two whole flowerheads will be plenty. Ingredients 2 cups cream ¾ cup sugar Zest of 1 lemon 4 large lemons (you'll need ½ cup juice, and the shells for serving) ½ tsp dried culinary lavender (or 1 tsp fresh) Method 1. Slice lemons in half lengthways and juice them (you'll need ½ cup of juice). Carefully scoop out the pulp using a small serrated knife and spoon. Trim the bases so they sit flat. Chill in the fridge while you make the posset. 2. In a small pot, combine cream, sugar, lemon zest, and lavender. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it bubble softly for 5 minutes to thicken. 3. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice until fully combined. Strain out the zest and lavender. 4. Pour the warm posset into the lemon halves using a small jug or spoon. Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight. 5. Serve cold, topped with a tiny pinch of dried lavender or edible petals. Lemon, lemon verbena and boysenberry cake This cake is a showstopper for midwinter celebrations and it makes the most of lemons in every part: cake, syrup, icing and curd. Yes, it takes a little time, but on a winter weekend, what better way to spend the day? Serves up to 12 Ingredients • 200g butter, softened • 225g caster sugar • 4 large eggs • Zest of 1 lemon • 2 Tbsp finely chopped lemon verbena (optional) • 2 tsp vanilla extract • 120g gluten-free flour • 1½ tsp baking powder • ½ tsp salt • 160g ground almonds Lemon syrup • Zest and juice of 2 lemons • 75g sugar • 1 sprig lemon verbena or lemon balm (optional) Method 1. Preheat oven to 170°C. Butter and line a 20-23cm round springform tin. 2. In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the sugar, lemon zest and lemon verbena to release their oils. 3. Add the soft butter and vanilla and beat until pale and fluffy. 4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, scraping the bowl between additions. 5. Gently fold in the flour, baking powder, salt and ground almonds until just combined. 6. Pour into the prepared tin and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean. 7. While the cake bakes, gently heat the syrup ingredients until the sugar dissolves. 8. While the cake is still warm, prick all over and spoon over the syrup. Let cool completely before icing. To finish Frost the cooled cake with the cream cheese icing. Spoon lemon curd over the top and scatter with edible flowers, herbs or dried lemon pieces. Cream cheese and boysenberry icing Ingredients • 125g (½ a tub) cream cheese, softened • 125g butter, softened • 2½ cups icing sugar, sifted • ½ cup boysenberries, drained • Pinch salt Method Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add icing sugar and beat until fluffy. Fold in the boysenberries — swirl for a marbled effect, or mix in fully for a vibrant pink icing. Lemon and lemon verbena curd Ingredients • 3 egg yolks • ½ cup sugar • Zest and juice of 2 lemons • 2 tsp lemon verbena, finely chopped (optional) • 75g cold butter, cubed Method Whisk yolks, sugar, zest, juice and verbena in a small pot. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened. Reduce the heat and stir in butter till it melts into the curd. Strain for a smoother finish. Chill before using.
Scoop
04-06-2025
- Scoop
Dengue In The Pacific Region – Expert Q&A
Press Release – Science Media Centre The SMC asked experts about the current situation in the Pacific. The Cook Islands declared a dengue outbreak in Rarotonga last week. Other Pacific nations including Sāmoa, Tonga, and Fiji are also experiencing outbreaks. The SMC asked experts about the current situation in the Pacific. Dr Gregor Devine, Senior Director, Field Entomology at the World Mosquito Program, comments: What is the immediate threat posed by dengue in the wider Pacific region, and how is this changing? 'Dengue fever is the world's most prevalent disease spread by mosquitoes. Cases are increasing across the Western Pacific (e.g., Pacific Island Countries and Territories, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam) and South East Asia (e.g., Bangladesh, Indonesia, Thailand, and Timor-Leste). All of these countries experienced significant dengue outbreaks in 2024 and 2025, and the general trend in cases globally is relentlessly upwards. 'These increases are fuelled by 1) climate change (increased temperatures encourage mosquito proliferation and shorten the time needed for viruses to replicate in their mosquito hosts), 2) increasing globalisation (and the increased movement of humans carrying the virus), 3) immunological naïveté, where human populations are being exposed to new dengue serotypes, and 4) the limited impact of existing control measures. 'According to the Pacific Syndromic Surveillance System, as of May 27th 2025, dengue cases are increasing or peaking in Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Kiribati, and Cook Islands. There have been deaths reported from Fiji, Tonga and Samoa.' What hopes are currently on the horizon for new technologies or programmes to combat the disease? 'Current responses to dengue outbreaks largely involve the application of insecticides and the implementation of environmental 'clean-up' campaigns, but these have limited impacts. Moreover, resistance to insecticides is increasingly documented in the Pacific, and this further reduces the impact of conventional vector control. 'A safe, effective and sustainable solution exists. The Wolbachia method, developed by the non-profit World Mosquito Program, involves releasing mosquitoes infected with a bacteria that reduces their ability to transmit dengue. It has been proven to have a tremendous impact on dengue transmission around the world. Wolbachia releases have been piloted in Fiji, Vanuatu, Kiribati, and New Caledonia. Following six years of Wolbachia mosquito releases in New Caledonia, the project has been hailed a monumental success, and the French territory hasn't had a dengue epidemic since 2019. This year, releases will continue in Kiribati, and be adopted in Timor-Leste.' What is your biggest concern and/or is there anything you wish people understood better about the situation? 'The upward trend in dengue case numbers regionally will inevitably stress public health systems and impact family well-being (through both the health and economic costs of hospitalisation and the lost earnings of the sick). Sustainable ways to combat dengue, such as the Wolbachia method, are desperately needed. Vaccines are still years away from being universally affordable and applicable.' Conflict of interest statement: Greg Devine is the Senior Director of Field Entomology for the World Mosquito Program Dr Joan Ingram, Medical Advisor, Immunisation Advisory Centre, comments: What is the immediate threat posed by dengue in the Pacific region, and how is this changing? 'Dengue outbreaks are currently affecting Kiribati, Samoa, Fiji, Tonga and French Polynesia with the most cases being reported from Fiji, according to The Pacific Community (SPC). Case numbers are increasing in all of those areas, apart from in French Polynesia. There are four dengue serotypes – and both serotype 1 and serotype 2 are currently circulating. 'The Pacific Islands are vulnerable to dengue outbreaks as they have high levels of mosquitoes and dengue viruses can be introduced by infected people. 'Between 2012 and 2021, there were 69 outbreaks of dengue fever among the Pacific Islands. However, they are not unique in having dengue fever – dengue is common in many other regions including the Americas, Africa, the Middle East and Asia. 'Globally, dengue cases were at a very high level in 2024, particularly in South America. Cases increased almost 30-fold there between 2000 and 2024. Urbanisation, globalisation and climate change have contributed to this increase.' What is your biggest concern and is there anything you wish people understood better about the situation? 'Dengue is often a leading cause of fever in risk countries. Estimates are that around 6 in 1000 travellers spending a month in a risk area become unwell with dengue, with up to 30% of them being hospitalised. 'Dengue is spread by common biting mosquitoes (various Aedes species), which thrive where humans live. The main way to avoid dengue is mosquito bite avoidance. Aedes mosquitoes (unlike the malaria-transmitting Anopheles) are daytime feeders, with two peak times of biting activity in the day – 2 to 3 hours after dawn, and mid-to-late afternoon. However, they may feed all day indoors or on overcast days. 'People should regularly apply effective repellent as well as using light-coloured clothing to cover up. In addition, they should take steps to reduce mosquitoes indoors (such as screens on windows and doors), and in the environment by emptying any water-holding containers.' What hopes are currently on the horizon for new technologies or programmes to combat the disease? 'Qdenga, a dengue vaccine, is available in 30 countries overseas but not in New Zealand. It protects against dengue serotype 1 and 2 very well, especially in people who have had previous dengue. Protection against serotypes 3 and 4 is still being evaluated. 'An earlier dengue vaccine increased the risk of severe dengue in people who had not had dengue previously. It does not seem as though Qdenga does that, but it is still being monitored and most authorities prefer to administer it to people with past dengue infection although the guidelines differ. 'A new hope for the future is the use of Wolbachia-infected Aedes aegypti. Wolbachia infection blocks the transmission of the dengue virus from mosquitoes. Trials are ongoing with promising results.' No conflicts of interest. Dr Berlin Kafoa, Director, Public Health Division at The Pacific Community (SPC), comments: What is the immediate threat posed by dengue in the Pacific region, and how is this changing? ' 1. Increasing morbidity due to escalating dengue outbreaks reported across the Pacific region with circulation of multiple serotypes. 'Dengue is actively circulating in at least six Pacific Island Countries and Territories (PICTs), including Fiji (>8,000 cases, 4 deaths), Tonga (793 cases, 3 deaths), French Polynesia (>2,000 cases), Samoa (110 cases, 1 death), Cook Islands, and Kiribati. Multiple serotypes (DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3) are co-circulating, increasing the risk of severe dengue due to secondary infections in populations with partial immunity. ' 2. Changing epidemiology and vulnerable populations 'There is a growing incidence of severe dengue amongst children and youth with no prior dengue exposure. There are older adults coming from areas historically free of dengue. This suggests immunity gaps, but the lack of updated seroprevalence data limits precise risk profiling. ' 3. Climate and mobility as amplifiers 'Climate change and variability (e.g., rainfall, temperature) is expanding mosquito habitats and altering transmission regional and international travel and trade from endemic areas (e.g., Southeast Asia, South America) raises the risk of virus introduction.' What hopes are currently on the horizon for new technologies or programmes to combat the disease? ' 1. A need for collaboration across sectors, agencies, and countries. 'Through the Pacific Public Health Surveillance Network (PPHSN), we are working with WHO and allied members to support countries with preparedness, detection and response to dengue and other arboviral diseases. This includes: Rapid risk assessments and technical guidance Laboratory supplies and testing algorithms and Strengthening PCR testing capabilities in countries. Subtyping and WGS/Whole-Genome Sequencing via reference labs (e.g., VIDRL in Australia). Dissemination of risk communication messages through multiple channels and sharing of best practices in risk communication and community engagement ' 2. A need for predictive analytics and early warning 'We are exploring predictive algorithms that integrate climate data (e.g., rainfall, temperature), flight and mobility data, and historical outbreak and seroprevalence data. These tools aim to forecast outbreak risks and optimize vector control timing.' ' 3. Vector control capacity building to promote a One Health approach. 'The Pacific Vector Network (PVN) launched in 2023, a service arm of PPHSN, supports a coordinated response to control of vector-borne disease in the region; practical entomology training for PICTs; mosquito surveys, mapping, and surveillance; and provision of vector control equipment and insecticides.' ' 4. New tools being tested 'Other new tools being tested in the region include pilot testing of new technologies such as Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) in French Polynesia, and trials of Wolbachia introduction in Fiji, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, and Kiribati. For possible consideration, there is the introduction of dengue vaccines-contingent on availability of sero-prevalence data.' What is your biggest concern and/or is there anything you wish people understood better? 'The real risk of severe dengue is rising. Severe cases and fatalities are being reported, especially among youth. Dengue should not be dismissed as a mild illness, it can be life-threatening. 'There are gaps in immunity and surveillance. Many populations remain immunologically naive due to limited past exposure. Inadequate seroprevalence data and diagnostic capacity hinder targeted responses. 'There are changes in vector behaviours with possible increase in behaviours resistance to insecticides. 'Dengue is not the only arboviral threat which further complicates surveillance, diagnosis, and response efforts. Other threats include: Zika: Imported cases have been reported in the Pacific Rim (e.g., New Zealand from Fiji). Chikungunya: A major outbreak in La Réunion (339,000+ cases) and an imported case in Wallis and Futuna. Yellow fever: While not yet reported in the Pacific, the presence of Aedes vectors makes introduction a real risk 'There is a need to support the Pacific to acquire new technology for genomic surveillance. Genetic sequencing of dengue strains is essential to track virus movement and mutations across the region, but capacity remains limited. 'Dengue is no longer a seasonal or isolated threat in the Pacific; it is a regional health emergency shaped by climate, mobility, and historical vulnerabilities. Through a One Health multisector, multiagency and multi-country collaborative efforts with WHO, PIHOA and PPHSN partners, we are responding and building the tools and intelligence to predict, prepare and hopefully prevent the next wave.'
