https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/129097 2026-04-21T01:37:43Z 2026-04-21T01:37:43Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145664 2026-04-16T09:32:22Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Assessment of DNA sequencing, antibiotic sensitivity, and resistance in yeast cells and human skin microbiome isolates post-space travel and cosmic radiation exposure Abstract: Background: The Maleth research program involved three consecutive spaceflight missions in which tissue samples from diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), containing both polymicrobial bacterial populations and the model eukaryote Saccharomyces cerevisiae, were sent to the International Space Station (ISS). Each mission exposed these bacterial cells to low Earth orbit conditions—including microgravity and heightened radiation for approximately 30 days. Method: Upon return to Earth, the bacterial communities were carefully recovered, cultured and subsequently identified using MALDI-TOF©. To assess potential alterations in antibiotic resistance profiles, all recovered bacterial isolates were cultured and then were subjected to antimicrobial susceptibility testing via the VITEK® 2 automated system. In parallel, Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells were evaluated for genomic changes through targeted sequencing and comparative genetic analysis against Earth-based controls at Singleron Germany. Results: The results showed that Proteus mirabilis was among the most significantly impacted bacterial species, with its post-spaceflight counts showing statistically significant differences compared to ground controls. Moreover, the isolates of Proteus mirabilis exhibited increased resistance to antibiotics, suggesting that space conditions may exert selective pressure conducive to resistance development. In contrast, analysis of Saccharomyces cerevisiae demonstrated no detectable genomic changes across any of the space-exposed samples, under the tested spaceflight conditions although there is the possibility that the duration in space was short and not sufficient to bring changes in the genome. Conclusion: These findings suggest that exposure to space can induce antimicrobial resistance characteristics of bacterial pathogens, such as in Proteus mirabilis. The implications of this study highlight the potential risks posed by altered microbial behaviour during long-term space and their effects on AMR in patients. Description: M.Sc. Biomed. Sc.(Melit.)

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145636 2026-04-15T13:45:06Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Sensitivity and specificity of otoacoustic emission and automated auditory brainstem response tests in universal neonatal hearing screening programme in Malta Abstract: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the Universal Neonatal Hearing Screening Programme in the Maltese Islands between October 2021 and October 2022. A retrospective, cross sectional, non-interventional quantitative research design was employed. The study population consisted of 4,427 newborns delivered in Malta and Gozo during the one-year study period. The results demonstrated that 93% of newborns across both islands were screened, indicating near universal programme coverage and alignment with established standards for accessibility and early hearing detection. The prevalence of confirmed neonatal hearing impairment was 0.21%, corresponding to approximately 2.1 cases per 1,000 live births. Performance evaluation of the screening modalities showed that the Automated Auditory Brainstem Response (AABR) test achieved a sensitivity of 90% and a specificity of 96%, while Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) testing demonstrated a sensitivity of 80% and a specificity of 91%. Although AABR exhibited higher diagnostic accuracy, the combined use of AABR and OAE improved overall screening effectiveness and population coverage. In conclusion, a staged dual-testing approach incorporating both AABR and OAE enhances diagnostic accuracy and supports the primary objective of early and universal identification of neonatal hearing impairment. Description: M.Sc.(Melit.)

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145600 2026-04-15T08:04:24Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Evaluation of a novel client-centred therapeutic device for improving functional hand skills in children with cerebral palsy Abstract: Aim: This study sought to investigate how Digiclap contributes to the functional hand skills required for the engagement of children with cerebral palsy (CP) in their daily life occupations. Digiclap is an innovative smart device that uses augmented reality (AR) to support habilitation of children with CP. It was produced through Project ‘SMARTCLAP’ within the University of Malta. Research Design and Method: A Mixed Methods Case Study design was employed, involving six children aged 6 to 12 years diagnosed with CP, their caregivers, and three senior paediatric occupational therapists. The children participated in a maximum of eight sessions using Digiclap, with caregivers attending each session alongside them. Following the sessions, caregivers completed a perspective questionnaire and participated in a one-on-one semi-structured interview. Some of the children filled a child’s feedback form. Occupational therapists attended a block of sessions and took part in a focus group. Data collected included the children’s game scores, caregivers’ and occupational therapists’ perspectives, and additional feedback from the children themselves. Results: Digiclap was perceived by the participants as a beneficial, therapeutic, and innovative device. It served as a source of encouragement for children in carrying out upper limb related games and also as a motivator in therapy sessions. The limitations related to using Digiclap centred around the limited sensory feedback it provided to the users, the restricted number of games, and issues with connectivity and the wearable parts such as the finger rings. Digiclap can be used as an adjunct to occupational therapy sessions; however, feedback from stakeholders indicates that its effective use requires the guidance of an occupational therapist. The use of AR in Digiclap was perceived to have mixed benefits by the occupational therapists and the caregivers alike. Conclusion: The findings in this study indicate that a smart device like Digiclap can positively impact the children with CP, with the potential to enhance traditional occupational therapy sessions. Increasing the range of available games as well as more multisensory feedback (visual, audio, and rewards) in the game playing is desirable for better participation of the children when using the device. Digiclap can be further personalised to meet the specific needs of children within an occupational therapy programme. Technical issues with the device limited the collection of participant performance data and hindered the ability to demonstrate changes in function. Future research is crucial to ensure that this promising and potentially revolutionary device continues to evolve and improve the lives of many individuals. Description: M.Sc.(Melit.)

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145583 2026-04-14T13:12:51Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: A user-experiences-based approach for designing connected speech and language therapeutic toys in a smart city Abstract: This study explores the design, development, and evaluation of SALTT-CITY, a connected bilingual language intervention tool for Maltese-English-speaking children aged between five-to-eight years old, namely those diagnosed with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD). Given the scarcity of local, evidence-based gamified resources for bilingual intervention in Malta, this research seeks to investigate the need for innovative, user-centred tools that combine traditional play with connected technologies. Using a user-centred research design and a mixed-methods approach, the study integrated qualitative and quantitative data collection to explore the diverse perspectives of speech and language pathologists, caregivers and children on the SALTT-CITY board game and companion app. Semi-structured interviews, questionnaires, and thematic analysis were used to scrutinise how connected technologies stand to enhance engagement and accessibility and support both implicit and explicit language intervention approaches. The findings suggest that SALTT-CITY has the potential to facilitate more tailor-made and engaging intervention experiences by aligning with tiered service delivery models and promoting collaborative learning. The study identified key design considerations for integrating connected technologies into language intervention while highlighting challenges related to usability, personalisation, and clinician adoption. Ultimately, this study contributes to the evolving field of gamified and connected therapeutic tools by offering a look into their role in language intervention. Through the bridging of traditional and digital play, SALTT-CITY brought forth a scalable model for the enhancement of language therapy practices, with further implications for future technology assisted therapy. Description: M.Sc.(Melit.)

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z