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Issue 7
July 2015
A word from the Editor
Believe it or not we are already halfway through the year and the last fully crammed
couple of months that will leave everyone reeling to meet deadlines until another
academic year will come to an end!
In the midst of this frenzy, here is the last issue of this academic year, and all of you who
are saddened that we won’t be releasing issues over the summer, fret not, we couldn’t
be more excited to come back next academic year with more articles for you.
As they say, goodbye is short and final, farewell, on the other hand, has the sweet sound
of reluctance...and what better way to celebrate the end of another academic year than
with a BBQ near the pool, palm trees under the beautiful blue summer sky together
with family and friends enjoying delicious food served with a nice glass of wine and the
best company. Let’s face it, it sounds SO good!
So till then, happy reading, farewell and wish you all a great summer!
Ramona Cuschieri, FHS Newsletter Editor
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Past Events
5
Publishing, Research
and Presentations
10
Announcements
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Humour
Upcoming Events
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Upcoming Events
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Past Events
Training School for Aphasia Researchers
Dr Ritienne Grima, from the Department of
Communication Therapy, organised a second Training
School for early stage researchers and experienced
researchers with an interest in aphasia. This training is one
of the activities held by the Collaboration of Aphasia
Trialists (COST Action IS1208).
Dr Ritienne Grima
Lecturer - Department of
Communication Therapy, FHS
This year’s topic focused on The International Classification
of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF, WHO, 2001) and
its application to Aphasia Research. The training was held at
the Corinthia Palace Hotel, in Ħ’Attard, Malta, between the
22nd and the 24th of April 2015, and took the form of a
three-day intensive and interactive masterclass.
Six trainers from European and International Partner
Countries including Australia and New Zealand led excellent research training sessions
and practical hands on activities in small groups. Nineteen trainees from fourteen
different COST countries attended the training school and research collaborations
between different participants have already been discussed.
Aphasia is an acquired language disorder which may result from a stroke. It may affect comprehension
and/or expression of spoken and/or written language. This significantly impacts on communication with
family, friends and the wider community. Altered social interaction isolates persons with aphasia and
impacts on their emotional wellbeing, contributing to poorer functional recovery.
The Collaboration of Aphasia Trialists (CATs) is a COST action (IS1208) which aims to establish and support
an international network of multidisciplinary investigators with an interest in aphasia assessment and
rehabilitation research. Log on to http://www.aphasiatrials.org/ for more information.
Publishing, Research and Presentations
Scerri A., Innes A., Scerri C. (2015)
‘Discovering What Works Well: Exploring Quality Dementia Care In
Hospital Wards Using An Appreciative Inquiry Approach’, published
in Journal of Clinical Nursing, pp1-10
ABSTRACT
This paper explores the quality of dementia care in two geriatric hospital wards
using appreciative inquiry with formal care workers and family members of inpatients with dementia.
Care models such as person-centred and relationship-centred care have been
developed to explain what ‘quality’ dementia care should be. However, their
usefulness and relevance to clinicians has been questioned.
Using an exploratory qualitative design within an appreciative inquiry framework, 33
care workers working in a geriatric hospital and 10 family members of patients with
dementia were interviewed.
Open-ended questions were asked to encourage care workers to narrate positive
care experiences when the care was perceived to be at its best and to identify what
made these experiences possible. Interviews were audio-taped and transcribed
whilst data was analysed thematically using a qualitative data analysis software to
assist in data management.
Positive care experiences can be understood within five care processes namely;
building a relationship between the ‘extended’ dementia care triad, providing ‘quality
time’ and ‘care in time’, going the ‘extra mile’, attending to the psychosocial needs
and attending to the physical needs with a ‘human touch’. Factors facilitating these
positive care experiences included personal attributes of care workers; and
organisational, environmental and contextual factors.
This study provides an alternative and pragmatic approach to understanding quality
dementia care and complements the body of
knowledge on factors influencing dementia care
practices in hospitals.
By understanding the components of quality dementia
care and how these can be achieved from different
stakeholders, it is possible to develop strategies aimed
at improving the care offered to persons with dementia
in hospitals.
Mr Anthony Scerri
Assistant Lecturer, Department of Nursing, FHS
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Publishing, Research and Presentations
Dr Michael Galea contributed a chapter entitled “Burnout and
Vocational Satisfaction: An incremental validity study” in the Handbook
on Burnout and Sleep Deprivation: Risk Factors, Management
Strategies, and Impact on Performance and Behavior by Winston T. N.
(Ed.). NOVA Publishers, 13, 201-217.
ABSTRACT
Burnout is a reality that affects all individuals, including
those involved in religious pastorate (Hall,
1997). Considering its repercussions, research may help in
buffering burnout’s far reaching effects. This preliminary
study focused on the holistic wellbeing of lay catechists in
Malta – a very specific population which has not been
studied as such before, in view of burnout reality. Lay
catechists are committed Catholics who are non-ordained
and fully committed to catechism and evangelization within
their church. They normally hail from different groups, each
guided by different spiritualities, within same
Dr Michael Galea
faith. Participants (N=217) completed measures assessing
Lecturer - Mental Health
burnout, wellbeing, personality, spirituality, and vocational
Department, FHS
satisfaction. Results suggested moderate high levels of
burnout, and low scores of personal accomplishment. Furthermore, results suggest
that fully committed catechists may be more vulnerable to stress and burnout, than
candidates. More pertinent to this study, vocational satisfaction predicted a small
albeit significant of the variance of burnout even after controlling for personality and
subjective well-being. Thus, the stronger the sense of call, the less likely one risks
burnout. The psycho-social and spiritual implications of these results were discussed.
Rowana N. J., Valdramidis V.P., Gomez-Lopez V. M. (2015)
A review of quantitative methods to describe
efficacy of pulsed light generated inactivation data
that embraces the occurrence of viable but non
culturable state microorganisms, published in
Trends in Food Science & Technology Vol 44, pp79-92.
ABSTRACT
Dr Vasilis Valdramidis
Senior. Lecturer - Department of
Food Studies & Env. Health, FHS
The purpose of this timely review is to critically appraise
and to assess the potential significance of best-published
microbial inactivation kinetic data generated by pulsed light
(PL). The importance of selecting different inactivation
models to describe the PL inactivation kinetics is
highlighted. Current methods for the detection of viablebut-nonculturable (VBNC)
Cont. pg. 7
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Publishing, Research and Presentations
organisms post PL-treatments are outlined along with the limitations of these
methods within food microbiology. Greater emphasis should be placed on
elucidating appropriate inactivation kinetic model(s) to cater for the occurrence of
these VBNC organisms that are underestimated in number using traditional culture
-based enumeration methods. Finally, the importance of further molecular and
combinational research to tackle the potential threat posed by VBNC organisms
with regard to kinetic inactivation modelling and nexus to public health and food
safety is presented.
Farrugia C., Cassar G., Valdramidis V., Camilleri J. (2015)
‘Effect of sterilization techniques prior to antimicrobial testing on
physical properties of dental restorative materials’, published in
Journal of Dentistry,Vol 43, pp703-714.
ABSTRACT
The aim of this study was to investigate any changes to the microstructure and
surface properties of selected dental materials after sterilization carried out prior
to subjecting them to antimicrobial testing. Initial microbial contamination on the
material, as well as other possible sources of contamination were also assessed.
The materials investigated included dentine replacement materials Chemfil
Superior1, Ionoseal1, Dyract Extra1 and SDR1. The materials were characterized by
scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The
test materials were sterilized using alcohol, steam, ultraviolet light (UV) and
ethylene oxide and any changes to these materials were then assessed by SEM,
microhardness testing and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. Material
microbial levels before treatments were assessed by plate counting technique and
turbidity tests. Possible contamination through dispensers was assessed by analysing
the CFU/sample.
Ethylene oxide affected the microstructure of the Chemfil, Ionoseal and Dyract,
resulting in flattening of the Si–O stretching vibrations and deposition of chlorine
and calcium respectively in Chemfil and Dyract. Varied contamination was
demonstrated on all materials when incubated in anaerobic conditions.
The different sterilization techniques affected the microstructure of the materials
under investigation. Samples of materials produced in sterile conditions could also
be contaminated with bacteria, either from the material itself or through the
dispensing apparatus.
Results of antimicrobial studies cannot be extrapolated clinically as the material
sterilization treatment results in changes to material chemistry and microstructure,
which could in turn affect the materials’ antimicrobial activity.
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Publishing, Research and Presentations
Buttigieg S. C., Von Eiff W., Farrugia P. and Von Eiff M. C. (2015)
Process Optimization in the Emergency Department by the Use of
Point-of-Care-Testing (POCT) in Life-Threatening Conditions:
Comparative Best Practice Examples from Germany and Malta,
published in International Best Practices in Health Care Management Advances in Health Care Management, Volume Vol 17, pp.195-219 by
Emerald Group Publishing Limited
ABSTRACT
Point-of-care testing (POCT) at the Emergency
Department (ED) attains better objectives in patient care
while aiming to achieve early diagnosis for faster medical
decision-making. This study assesses and compares the
benefits of POCT in the ED in Germany and Malta, while
considering differences in their health systems.
Prof. Sandra Buttigieg
Head - Department of Health
Services Managment, FHS
This chapter utilizes multiple case study approach using Six
Sigma. The German case study assesses the use of POCT in
acute coronary syndrome patients, compared to the
central lab setting. The Maltese case study is a pilot study
of the use of medical ultrasonography as a POCT to detect
abdominal free fluid in post-blunt trauma.
This study provides clear examples of the effectiveness of POCT in life-threatening
conditions, as compared to the use of traditional central lab or the medical imaging
department. Therapeutic quality in the ED and patient outcomes directly depend
upon turnaround time, particularly for life-threatening conditions. Faster turnaround
time not only saves lives but reduces morbidity, which in the long-term is a critical
cost driver for hospitals.
The application of Six Sigma and the international comparison of POCT as best
practice for life-threatening conditions in the ED.
Buttigieg S. C., Rathert C., D’Aunno T., Savage G.T. (2015)
International Research in Health Care Management: Its Need in the
21st Century, Methodological Challenges, Ethical Issues, Pitfalls, and
Practicalities, published in International Best Practices in Health Care
Management - Advances in Health Care Management, Volume Vol 17,
pp.3-22 by Emerald Group Publishing Limited
ABSTRACT
This commentary argues in favor of international research in the 21st century.
Advances in technology, science, communication, transport, and infrastructure have
transformed the world into a global village. Industries have increasingly adopted
globalization strategies.
Cont. pg. 9
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Publishing, Research and Presentations
Likewise, the health sector is more internationalized whereby comparisons between
diverse health systems, international best practices, international benchmarking,
cross-border health care, and cross-cultural issues have become important subjects
in the health care literature. The focus has now turned to international,
collaborative, cross-national, and cross-cultural research, which is by far more
demanding than domestic studies. In this commentary, we explore the
methodological challenges, ethical issues, pitfalls, and practicalities within
international research and offer possible solutions to address them.
The commentary synthesizes contributions from four scholars in the field of health
care management, who came together during the annual meeting of the Academy of
Management to discuss with members of the Health Care Management Division the
challenges of international research.
International research is worth pursuing; however, it calls for scholarly attention to
key methodological and ethical issues for its success.
This commentary addresses salient issues pertaining to international research in
one comprehensive account.
Cassar V., Briner R. B., Buttigieg S. (2015)
What’s in a broken promissory obligation? Developing and testing a
multiple component form measure of psychological contract breach,
published in The International Journal of Human Resource Management,
http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/09585192.2015.1025089
ABSTRACT
While the literature has suggested the possibility of breach being composed of
multiple facets, no previous study has investigated this possibility empirically. This
study examined the factor structure of typical component forms in order to
develop a multiple component form measure of breach. Two studies were
conducted. In study 1 (N ¼ 420) multi-item measures based on causal indicators
representing promissory obligations were developed for the five potential
component forms (delay, magnitude, type/form, inequity and reciprocal imbalance).
Exploratory factor analysis showed that the five components loaded onto one
higher order factor, namely psychological contract breach suggesting that breach is
composed of different aspects rather than types of breach. Confirmatory factor
analysis provided further evidence for the proposed model. In addition, the model
achieved high construct reliability and showed good construct, convergent,
discriminant and predictive validity. Study 2 data (N ¼ 189), used to validate study 1
results, compared the multiple-component measure with an established multiple
item measure of breach (rather than a single item as in study 1) and also tested for
discriminant validity with an established multiple item measure of violation. Findings
replicated those in study 1. The findings have important implications for considering
alternative, more comprehensive and elaborate ways of assessing breach.
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Announcements
Continuing Professional Development StudyStudy-units: Faculty of Health
Sciences
The following CPD study-units will be offered during academic year 2015/2016:
HSC4061- Clinical Education in Practice (Mentorship)
NUR2533- First Aid for Health Care Professionals
NUR3219- Neonatal Resuscitation Provider
NUR3234- Infection Prevention and Control
NUR4237- Basic Life Support Instructor
NUR4240- The Spiritual Dimension in Holistic Care
NUR4241- Transitional Care:The Discharge Process and Continuity of Care
NUR4408- Community Child Care
NUR4409- Community Child Care Related to Practice
NUR4410- Community Care of the Elderly
NUR4411- Community Care of the Elderly Related to Practice
NUR4421- Health Behaviour Issues for the Individual
NUR4423: Health Promotion for the Individual: Practical Aspects
POD5001- Vascular Assessment of the Lower Extremities
RAD5003- Radiation Protection
Interested applicants may download the call for application and the application form
from the link below:
http://www.um.edu.mt/healthsciences/prospectivestudents/cpd
Application forms must be handed in to Ms Kelly Grech, Room 30, Faculty of
Health Sciences by not later than Friday, 10th July 2015.
Late applications may be accepted, subject to availability of vacant places, from
Wednesday 29th July until Friday 31st July 2015 against a late application fee of
€35.00.
New Recruits
Mr Nigel S. Mallett, IT Officer III
Mr Nigel S. Mallett has been designated as IT
Officer, within the FHS. He can be contacted by
e-mail: nigel.s.malle @um.edu.mt
Tel:23401849; Office No. 22.
News on Campus
Erasmus+ Staff Mobility for Teaching/Training
A Second call for applications has been issued for University of Malta Academic/
Administrative/Technical staff who would be interested in participating in an
Erasmus+ mobility programme. As it is a Second Call of Applications, there is no
deadline for the applications, grants will be awarded on a first come, first served
basis until funds are utilised.
The Staff Mobility for Teaching/Training may be carried out by members of staff
appointed by Council (full-time and visiting staff). In both cases the home and the
host institution should ensure that the visiting beneficiary’s contribution is an
integral part of an Academic programme or the day-to-day work of the hosting
institution.
Both the Staff Mobility for Teaching/Training must be carried out at a Higher
Education Institution that is a holder of an Erasmus+ University Charter, and with
whom the University of Malta has a signed Bilateral Agreement for the academic
year 2014/15. For the list of placements contact the International & EU Office.
The Staff Training/ Teaching Assignment must be concluded by *30 September
2015*. Academic/Administrative/Technical staff are advised that the duration of
their Erasmus+ mobility may vary between a minimum of 2 days up to a maximum
duration of 2 months. Academic staff are required to conduct a minimum of 8
teaching hours per week during their Erasmus+ mobility.
Erasmus+ beneficiaries will need to make travel arrangements for their mobility
period up to one day before and one day after the actual Staff Mobility for Teaching/
Training, in order to be eligible for the subsistence grants.
For the application forms and backing documents please visit:
http://www.um.edu.mt/int-eu/notices/erasmusplus2ndcall2015
For further information, kindly contact Ms Maria Vella at the International & EU
Office on telephone number: 2340 3416 or via email:
maria.vella@um.edu.mt or erasmus@um.edu.mt
Kindly note that handwritten application forms will not be accepted.
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Announcements / Humour
University of Malta Postgraduate Prospectus 2015/16 Launched
Any The University of Malta has just published its Prospectus for the coming
academic year, complete with details relating to all the postgraduate courses that
the University is offering this October.
The 2015/6 Prospectus has retained all the popular but this time also includes, for the
first time, a section regarding the research areas that every Faculty/Institute/Centre/
School offers at Doctoral Level. The Prospectus also highlights the courses/areas of study
eligible under the Malta Enterprise Get Qualified Scheme.
The Prospectus is available online: www.um.edu.mt/admissions. Printed copies are
available from the Admissions and Records Office, Msida Campus and from the
University Gozo Campus.
The application for admission can be accessed through: www.um.edu.mt/apply
Travelling Smart: Bicycle Facilities at the University of Malta
With a student population of 11,000, including over 600 international students from
80 different countries, and members of staff amounting to 4000, the University generates a significant demand for travel. Acknowledging this, the University actively encourages staff and students to use greener transport options.
In order to reduce its carbon footprint, over the last few years the University has
worked to improve transport options.
For more information visit: http://www.um.edu.mt/greentravel
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Notices
Training courses / workshops organised by IT Services
(Jun - Sep 2015)
All training sessions are held at IT Services (Campus Map - Location 45)
Workshops
Dates
Time
Web CMS Workshop (Staff Only)
Thu 30 Jul
0900 - 1200hrs
VLE: An Introduc/on (Staff Only)
Thu 10 Sep
0900 - 1200hrs
Turni/n Workshop (Staff Only)
Wed 16 Sep
0900 - 1230hrs
Courses
Dates
Time
IBM SPSS: Introduc/on Course
Tue 30 Jun, Wed 1 & Fri 3 Jul
1330 - 1530hrs
IBM SPSS: Intermediate
Mon 20, Wed 22 & Fri 24 Jul
1330 - 1530hrs
IBM SPSS: Advanced
Mon 3, Wed 5 & Fri 7 Aug
1330 - 1530hrs
Library Opening Hours
During the summer period (Tuesday 16 June – Wednesday 30 September 2015),
the Main Library will open from:
16 June – 30 June
Mondays to Fridays: 0900hrs – 1645hrs
Saturdays: 0900hrs – 1215hrs
1 July – 30 July
Mondays to Fridays: 0900hrs – 1645hrs
Saturdays: 0900hrs – 1215hrs
1 August – 15 August
Closed for housekeeping activities
16 August – 31 August
Mondays to Fridays: 0900hrs – 1645hrs
Saturdays: Closed
1 September – 30 September
Mondays to Fridays: 0900hrs – 1645hrs
Saturdays: 0900hrs – 1215hrs
For further information of other Library Departments, Branch Libraries or Depositories,
kindly click here
Humour
Meetings...
Fun Facts
•
The camel is sometimes called “the ship of the desert” because of the way it
seems to roll as it walks. This rolling motion is caused by the fact that a camel
moves both legs on one side of its body at the same time. Then it moves both legs
on the other side. The giraffe is another animal that moves that way.
•
Most people say Mount Everest – at about 29,000 feet high – is the world’s tallest
mountain. But that’s only if you’re talking about mountains above ground. If you
consider parts of a mountain you can’t see, then Mauna Kea, a volcano on Hawaii, is
the tallest. It rises 13,796 above water and 19,680 underwater, for a total of
33,476 feet.
•
You can tell from the statue of a mounted horseman how the rider died. If all
four of the horse's feet are on the ground, he died of natural causes. One foot
raised means he died from wounds suffered in battle. Two legs raised means he
died in action.
•
Native Americans used to name their children after the first thing they saw as
they left their tepees after their children were born, hence the names Sitting
Bull and Running Water.
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