| Time |
Event |
Presenter |
Location |
Duration |
Abstract |
| 9:30 |
Postgraduate Student Impact Presentations |
Postgraduate Students |
B57/59, Athlone Campus |
120 mins |
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| 11:30 |
Break |
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|
30 mins |
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| 12:00 |
Thesis in 3 Finals |
|
B57/59, Athlone Campus |
30 mins |
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| 12:30 |
Lunch |
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|
60 mins |
|
| 13:30 |
Postgraduate Presentations (Full List Below) |
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120 mins |
|
| 13:30 |
Talk 1: Using split urine collections to assess circadian pattern of urinary sodium excretion- a feasibility study. |
Ciara Goland, PhD Student, Dept. Sport and Health Sciences |
B57/59, Athlone Campus |
10 mins |
The ‘gold standard’ method for assessing sodium intake is 24-hour urinary sodium excretion as around 90% of ingested sodium is excreted in urine[1]Circadian sodium excretion is related to blood pressure regulation[2] ; and is typically characterised by maximal daytime excretion followed by minimal night-time excretion. Urine collections (over 24 hours) are usually pooled and thus circadian patterns of excretion are disguised. Split sampling has been used previously; however only using two split urine collections (daytime and night-time)[2][3]. There is no published data using more than two split collections. Therefore, the aims of this study were (i) to measure patterns of circadian sodium excretion using four split urine collections across 24-hours (ii) to compare split urinary sodium excretion with diurnal patterns of dietary sodium intake collected using 24-hour recalls. After approval by TUS Research Ethics Committee, twenty participants (10 male, 10 female) were recruited onto a two-phase study. During phase 1 participants completed a pooled 24- hour urine collection (to familiarise with the burden associated with collecting urine). Phase 2 (7 or 14 days later) involved 4 x 6-hour split urine collections; (8:00–14:00hr, 14:00–20:00hr, 20:00–2:00hr, 2:00–8:00hr). A 24-hour dietary recall was completed after both phases. Urine samples were analysed for sodium, potassium, creatinine levels using Ion Selective Electrode Analysis. Incomplete urine collections were defined as (i) urine volume less than 300 mL per 24 hours or (ii) 24-hour creatinine excretion of <4 mmol or >25 mmol in females or <6 mmol or >30 mmol in males[3] and were excluded. Three phase 2 participants had incomplete urine samples, (determined by creatinine levels), compared to seven incomplete collections in phase 1 (3 of which had incomplete samples in phase 2). Twenty-four hour urinary sodium excretion and recalled daily sodium intakes were 2812 ± 1071 mg/day and 1923 ± 577mg/d in females (n = 8), respectively after phase 2. Corresponding values in males (n = 9) were 1962 ± 1207 mg/day and 2239 ± 1469 mg/day. Urinary sodium excretion peaked in the 14:00–20:00hr period totalling 770 ± 223 mg in females (accounting for 32% of total daily sodium excretion). In contrast, urinary sodium excretion was highest in the 20:00–2:00hr period (983 ± 646 mg) in males, (also accounting for 32% of total sodium excretion). This is the first study to collect more than 2 split urine collections. Although phase 1 was an extra burden, it familiarised participants with urine collection protocol, resulting in only three incomplete urine collections in phase 2. Multiple split sample urine collection facilitates quantitation of the variations in circadian sodium excretion. This method may be used in future studies to assess the effects of changes in sodium intakes on sodium excretion and on 24-hour blood pressure; not previously possible with pooled samples. |
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| 13:40 |
Talk 2: Isomorphic Forces Influencing Chef Retention in the Hospitality Industry |
Kevin Ward, PhD Student, Department of Hospitality, Tourism & Leisure |
B57/59, Athlone Campus |
10 mins |
The retention of chefs in the hospitality industry is fundamental to the success of the hospitality and tourism industry, however, certain universal trends, including the quest for legitimacy, guide the institutions of the industry towards convergence, a phenomenon encapsulated in intuitional theory as institutional isomorphism. Applying this to gastronomy, there is palpable tension. How can chefs remain innovative and creative in an industry that, through coercive regulatory frameworks, mimetic emulation of perceived models of success, or normative societal expectations, subtly encourages homogeneity? The retention of chefs within the hospitality industry remains a perineal and pernicious issue. In recent times, it has been catalysed and amplified by the coercive forces brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. The tendency to conform, driven by isomorphism, may, if unconsciously followed, stifle creativity and encourage toxic practices, thus perpetuating the exodus of talent. This research showcase will attempt to disseminate preliminary research in order to understand how institutional isomorphism might impact the intrinsic creativity that drives chefs and how the possible conflict between conformity and individuality can impact their commitment to the profession.” |
| 13:50 |
Talk 3: Beyond Hype and Hope: The 2030 Zero Poverty Goal – Will We Ever Get There? |
Shahboz Babaev, PhD Student, Department of Hospitality, Tourism & Leisure |
B57/59, Athlone Campus |
10 mins |
COVID-19 has pushed an additional 150 million people into poverty, mainly in poor countries, reaching 700 million, or about 9.2%, who live in extreme poverty globally. It is well known that the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal One aims to eradicate poverty by 2030. However, achieving this target faces ‘new’ tough challenges amidst escalating global conflicts and environmental crises. The recent Israel-Palestine war, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and ongoing instability in regions like Afghanistan, Yemen, and Somalia push even more people into poverty traps through displacement, resource scarcity, and economic disruption. Simultaneously, the intensifying impacts of climate change, from extreme weather events to rising sea levels, disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, pushing millions further into poverty. Recognising the complex connection between poverty, conflict, and environmental issues, this research explores the feasibility of the 2030 goal by advocating for a holistic approach. While acknowledging the daunting obstacles, it emphasises the critical role of international collaboration and innovative solutions that bridge the parts between conflict resolution, climate action, and poverty alleviation. By harnessing the potential of interconnected solutions, this research proposes a path to a future where eradicating poverty by 2030 is not just a dream but an achievable reality. |
| 14:00 |
Talk 4: Establishing a more Sustainable Festival Calendar – Co-Creation at ‘Dark Tourism Festivals’ |
Luisa Golz, PhD Student, Department of Hospitality, Tourism & Leisure |
B57/59, Athlone Campus |
10 mins |
My research develops new theory extending the current boundaries of dark tourism and festival research. Dark tourism festivals describe a touristic activity which is associated with dark histories, the Gothic and the macabre. Generally, dark tourism sites and activities can be plotted along a continuum, ranging from “darkest” to “lightest” (Stone, 2006). My area of research concerns such an activity, located on the “lighter” end of the dark tourism spectrum (Wyatt, Leask and Barron, 2023). These festivals are a celebration of culture, utilising the macabre and dark heritage as entertainment themes. Semi-structured interviews with organisers, locals and participants have been conducted. My research also utilised participant observation at the Bram Stoker Festival in Dublin and the Whitby Goth Weekend in the UK. Findings are presented on how dark tourism festivals create attachment to the festival brand, and how such festivals can be promoted. I propose that these festivals have strong links to the process of co-creation: festival participants do not just simply experience the festival, they also become an attraction in themselves (Simons, 2020). With the help of these festivals, lesser-known regions and towns are promoted. In addition, the festival season is stretched into the off-season, creating a more sustainable festival calendar for the future. |
| 14:10 |
Talk 5: Blockchain Applications in the European Higher Education Arena |
Anastasia Platonava, PhD Student, Faculty of Business and Hospitality |
B57/59, Athlone Campus |
10 mins |
Improving the quality of life globally means investing in education. It improves social stability and long-term economic growth. Ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all is one of the top priority goals of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG). Technology has improved access to education for an increasing number of students. The COVID-19 pandemic was one of the factors that exposed educational challenges. It forced educational institutions to temporarily close their doors, which affected nearly 1.6 billion learners in more than 190 countries and all continents (United Nations, 2020). With the Russia-Ukraine war in place, Ukraine needed to shift to an emergency remote teaching and learning mode that has already been adopted in the past because of the pandemic. These two incidents underpinned the need for digital technologies in the education sector and a higher level of digital capacity and innovations (European Commission, 2020). This research will initiate an exploration of both the present and potential blockchain-based applications in education. This study is expected to create an effective framework for integrating blockchain into existing organizational processes, initially targeting Irish educational institutions, but which may be adaptable and generalizable to other specific uses. |
| 14:20 |
Talk 6: Entrepreneurship and Innovation, What are the Elements for Success? |
Anastasia Platonava, PhD Student, Faculty of Business and Hospitality
Massimiliano Zanotto, PhD Student, Faculty of Business and Hospitality |
B57/59, Athlone Campus |
10 mins |
Entrepreneurship and innovation are the twin engines driving economic growth and societal progress. Entrepreneurial ventures not only create jobs and stimulate economic activity but also foster a culture of resilience and adaptability. The value of entrepreneurship lies not just in the products or services brought to market, but in the transformative impact on industries, communities and the planet. Innovations, born from the spirit of entrepreneurship, challenge the status quo, pushing boundaries and catalyzing progress. They introduce novel solutions to existing problems, spur technological advancements and improve the quality of life. Entrepreneurship fuels a cycle of continuous improvement and learning, as failures are embraced as opportunities to iterate and evolve. The dynamic interplay between entrepreneurship and innovation propels societies forward, driving prosperity and shaping a future that is both dynamic and sustainable. As we recognize the intrinsic value of fostering these qualities, our goal is to enlighten individuals, providing them with a deeper understanding of the crucial factors to be considered when entering this world. Our workshop targets postgraduate students, intending to cultivate interdisciplinary thinking, creativity and an entrepreneurial mindset. Through engaging activities and discussions, we aim to foster a spirit of curiosity and resilience in their academic and professional pursuits. |
| 14:30 |
Talk 7: Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Properties of Antimicrobial Lipids against Streptococcus Mutans |
Aoife Mulry, PhD Student, Faculty of Applied Science and Technology |
B57/59, Athlone Campus |
10 mins |
Biofilms are responsible for oral diseases such as dental caries and are more resistant to treatments. Saturated and unsaturated medium and long chain fatty acids (FAs) were screened for antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus mutans ATCC 25175. Effects on S. mutans growth was determined at 250, 100, 50 and 10 µg/ml. Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) were determined and impact of FAs on bacterial metabolic activity was determined using the Resazurin assay. Synergistic activity of FAs against S. mutans was also evaluated. Minimum Biofilm Inhibition Concentration (MBIC) was determined using crystal violet staining. LDH and XTT assays were employed to investigate oral cavity cell toxicity and proliferation. The MIC for saturated Undecanoic (C11), Lauric (C12), and Myristic (C14) acid was determined at 50 μg/ml. At 10 μg/ml Oleic (C18:1), Linoleic (C18:2), y-Linoleic (C18:3), Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, C20:5) reduced bacterial growth. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6) prevented bacteria growth at 10 μg/ml, reduced metabolic activity, inhibited biofilm formation, and displayed a log reduction value of 6. Combining most effective FAs at 10 μg/ml displayed bacteriostatic effects and improved log reduction compared to when used alone. At 10 μg/ml y-Linoleic, EPA and DHA displayed less cytotoxic effects than chlorohexidine, α-Linoleic displayed most protective effects on TR146 cells. Unsaturated long chain FAs with one or more double bonds produced significant antimicrobial activity against S. mutans. Most promising FA is Omega 3; DHA, while combining AMLs demonstrates synergistic activity and may reduce cytotoxic effects. AMLs have potential to be used as novel antibiofilm agents against S. mutans. |
| 14:40 |
Talk 8: DOE or Foe? – Demystifying the Role of Statistics in Research |
Eyman Hadi Abd Manaf, PhD Student, Faculty of Engineering and Informatics |
B57/59, Athlone Campus |
10 mins |
Many researchers cower at the mention of statistics. This fearful reaction is due to a multitude of reasons which are mainly amplified by fear of the unknown. Statistics have been proven to be a vital tool in the effective design and planning of experiments, as well as more robust interpretation and reporting of research findings. Despite this, many tend to avoid and ignore applying statistics in their research citing the ‘complexity’, ‘mystery’ and ‘steep learning curve’ tied to it. The proposed talk aims to chronicle the story of applying statistical analysis – more specifically design of experiments (DOE), to research, from a more relatable viewpoint of a postgraduate researcher with limited knowledge on the matter, in hopes of demystifying the horrors and complexity that has tainted statistics and DOE. |
| 14:50 |
Talk 9: Curcumin as a Nutraceutical in Breast Cancer |
Ava O’Meara-Cushen, PhD Student, Faculty of Science and Health |
B57/59, Athlone Campus |
10 mins |
Introduction: In 2020, 2.5 million cases of breast cancer (BC) was diagnosed worldwide (WHO, 2023). Chronic inflammation has been linked to BC pathogenesis (Danforth, 2021). Food-derived nutritional components with medicinal properties termed nutraceuticals have risen to the forefront of therapeutic methods (Maurya et al., 2021). Curcumin has emerged as a promising nutraceutical, with anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties (Islam et al., 2024). Methods: The effect of curcumin on BC cells was compared to the standard anti-inflammatory drug dexamethasone. BC cells were exposed to curcumin and dexamethasone concentrations to assess changes in BC viability, proliferation, migration and inflammatory cytokine secretion. Results: Curcumin and dexamethasone decreased BC viability. Moreover, both compounds significantly altered BC migration and proliferation potential. Curcumin and dexamethasone altered pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine secretion by BC cells. Discussion and Conclusion: Curcumin and dexamethasone was shown to reduce BC viability proportionally as the concentration increased, highlighting its cytotoxic potential in BC. Curcumin reduced BC cell proliferation and migration, which are key characteristics in BC establishment. Curcumin altered key inflammatory cytokines in BC, a notable finding due to the link between inflammation and breast cancer pathogenesis. Curcumin has shown to alter key characteristics in BC comparably to, and in some instances more effectively than, the standard anti-inflammatory drug dexamethasone. |
| 15:00 |
Talk 10: Design, Development and Appraisal of an Innovative Topical Antifungal Treatment |
Grace Lawler, PhD Student, Faculty of Science and Health |
B57/59, Athlone Campus |
10 mins |
This research investigates and analyses the mechanistic underpinnings of a modified coconut oil, referred to as MCO. This particular formulation has demonstrated remarkable antifungal efficacy against Trichophyton rubrum, an opportunistic pathogenic fungus affecting both the integumentary system and the nails. Insights are provided into the specific mechanisms responsible for the antifungal properties of the oil, contributing to the broader understanding of its potential as a therapeutic agent. T. rubrum isolates are quantified using adapted EUCAST methods. The MCO formulation is prepared according to a proprietary procedure and components are determined by physiochemical, thermo-analytical, chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques. Efficacy of MCO is assessed via in vitro bioassays, including MICs, time-kill, well- and disc diffusion, providing insights into antifungal properties, including concentration and fungicidal kinetics. Cleaning validation post-MCO batch production employs total organic carbon (TOC) analysis to ensure residue-free vessels. Lower-chained fatty acids ranging from C8 to C12, demonstrate notable inhibitory effects against the fungus. Batches of MCO consistently exhibit robust antifungal activity across in vitro bioassays, additionally outperforming a market-leading commercial product. TOC analysis before and after cleaning MCO vessels (swab and rinse samples) reveal a substantial decrease (24.496 mg/mL to 314.1 µg/mL) confirming successful cleaning and facilitating GMP compliant manufacture. |
| 15:10 |
Talk 11: Understanding and Addressing Social and Intellectual Isolation in Postgraduate Research: A Case Study at the Technological University of the Shannon |
Jenna Barry, PhD Student, NTUTORR |
B57/59, Athlone Campus |
10 mins |
The postgraduate research journey is frequently characterised by significant solitude, leading to social and intellectual isolation among students. This phenomenon is particularly prevalent among international students, with 65% reporting feelings of loneliness. While existing literature has focused on social isolation, the concept of ‘topic-related loneliness’ remains largely disregarded despite its profound impact on student retention, highlighted by attrition rates that can reach 70%. As Universities expand postgraduate research cohorts, understanding the multifaceted nature of isolation within this journey becomes crucial. This understanding can pave the way for universities to develop innovative strategies tailored to address the diverse academic and social needs of students. This research aims to investigate whether social and intellectual isolation within the research postgraduate community constitutes a challenge, particularly exploring its prevalence, causes, and correlation with attrition rates. Additionally, the study seeks to evaluate the potential efficacy of an online community specifically designed for postgraduate students in mitigating isolation. Employing a methodological framework that combines phenomenology and thematic analysis, the study will collect data through surveys capturing the experiences of current and former research postgraduates. Subsequent thematic analysis will elucidate findings to craft a comprehensive report. This report intends to illuminate deficiencies in postgraduate research education, pinpoint underlying student challenges, and propose support systems and interventions. By exploring the significance of reducing isolation through the establishment of an online community, this research endeavours to enhance the overall research experience and bolster retention rates for postgraduate research students within a singular University context. |
| 15:20 |
Talk 12: Prevention of Benefit from Homicide in the Case of Joint Tenancies |
Ann-Marie Dooley, Lecturer, Dept. Business and Financial Services & PhD Student, Faculty of Business and Humanities |
B57/59, Athlone Campus |
10 mins |
It is common in Ireland to own your family home under a joint tenancy with your spouse. When one spouse dies, the surviving spouse automatically inherits the family home regardless of what may have been written in a will. In 2010 Eamon Lillis killed his wife and fought for his right to inherit the family home held under a joint tenancy. Legislation was proposed in the Dáil and recommendations have been made by the Law Reform Commission in 2015 to prevent one joint tenant benefiting from the killing of the other joint tenant. However, the proposed legislation is bogged down in legal argument. The aim of my PhD research is to critically examine the current Irish law and current proposals for reform in the area of succession to property held under a joint tenancy in the event of the unlawful killing of one joint tenant by another. A doctrinal method of legal research will result in a strictly legal and therefore objective analysis. By analysing law sources such as relevant cases from this and comparable jurisdictions and the 2015 Law Reform Commission Report, a system of rules can be identified and a legal doctrine exposed that can withstand constitutional challenge. |
| 15:30 |
Break |
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10 mins |
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| 15:40 |
Research Week Award Ceremony |
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B57/59, Athlone Campus |
50 mins |
